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Jane Austen's Dragons #8
Dragon Keepers' Cotillion
Territory challenges. Dragon battles. Baby dragon debutantes. When will the chaos end?
Dragon Sage Elizabeth Darcy longs for life to return to normal, at least as normal as it could be for a Blue Order officer who lives with more household dragons than most small villages. Having two sisters and an infant dragon to present as debutantes to the Order, make ‘normal’ difficult. The fine ladies—she-dragons one and all—of the Cotillion Board make it impossible.
Sir Fitzwilliam Darcy, Knight of the Pendragon Order never envisioned his oath to ‘protect and serve the interests of the Blue Order and dragonkind’ would demand immediate action. But only a Keeper can defend Pemberley’s territory against threats far too big for a baby dragon to manage. Threats against the Pendragon Accords themselves. And only the one closest to the Dragon Sage can protect her from the sinister forces menacing the Order, possibly from within its own ranks.
Can Darcy and Elizabeth ensure the Cotillion strengthens the Order rather than laying the groundwork for its demise?
Meryton meets Pern in a fantastical regency romp bound to delight readers of Jane Austen and Anne McCaffrey alike.
Dragon Sage Elizabeth Darcy longs for life to return to normal, at least as normal as it could be for a Blue Order officer who lives with more household dragons than most small villages. Having two sisters and an infant dragon to present as debutantes to the Order, make ‘normal’ difficult. The fine ladies—she-dragons one and all—of the Cotillion Board make it impossible.
Sir Fitzwilliam Darcy, Knight of the Pendragon Order never envisioned his oath to ‘protect and serve the interests of the Blue Order and dragonkind’ would demand immediate action. But only a Keeper can defend Pemberley’s territory against threats far too big for a baby dragon to manage. Threats against the Pendragon Accords themselves. And only the one closest to the Dragon Sage can protect her from the sinister forces menacing the Order, possibly from within its own ranks.
Can Darcy and Elizabeth ensure the Cotillion strengthens the Order rather than laying the groundwork for its demise?
Meryton meets Pern in a fantastical regency romp bound to delight readers of Jane Austen and Anne McCaffrey alike.
408 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2021
122 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Maria Grace
97 books324 followersSix time BRAG Medallion Honoree, #1 Best-selling Historical Fantasy author Maria Grace has her PhD in Educational Psychology and is a 16-year veteran of the university classroom where she taught courses in human growth and development, learning, test development and counseling. None of which have anything to do with her undergraduate studies in economics/sociology/managerial studies/behavior sciences. She pretends to be a mild-mannered writer/cat-lady, but most of her vacations require helmets and waivers or historical costumes, usually not at the same time.
She stumbled into Jane Austen fan-dom in the mid '90s with Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility film, having somehow graduated HS without ever having read Austen. It was only a short leap then to consume all of Austen's works, in all their various media forms. In the hopes of discovering more works by Austen, she stumbled into the fan fiction forums, which naturally led to asking 'What if...' herself. Twenty nine books later, she still asks that question.
She writes gaslamp fantasy, historical romance and non-fiction to help justify her research addiction.
She stumbled into Jane Austen fan-dom in the mid '90s with Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility film, having somehow graduated HS without ever having read Austen. It was only a short leap then to consume all of Austen's works, in all their various media forms. In the hopes of discovering more works by Austen, she stumbled into the fan fiction forums, which naturally led to asking 'What if...' herself. Twenty nine books later, she still asks that question.
She writes gaslamp fantasy, historical romance and non-fiction to help justify her research addiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
October 31, 2021
Another addition to this wonderful saga that's an absolute page-turner. Various storylines are introduced and resolved with others left dangling to tantalize readers for the next book in the series. It's truly impressive how Ms. Grace weaves so many plots together.
Be warned that this is NOT a stand-alone book. Every volume in the series builds on what's come before, so I'd strongly advise that you read the previous seven books before cracking this one open. The whole series has become must-reads for lovers of thrilling fantasy (dragons!) blended with JAFF.
Content is clean.
Be warned that this is NOT a stand-alone book. Every volume in the series builds on what's come before, so I'd strongly advise that you read the previous seven books before cracking this one open. The whole series has become must-reads for lovers of thrilling fantasy (dragons!) blended with JAFF.
Content is clean.
March 6, 2022
Best one yet!
October 14, 2021
The Dragon Keepers' Cotillion is THE event of the year for the Blue Order. It is the equivalent of a coming-out party for female Keepers, male Keepers' wives and/or daughters, and, of course, young Dragons, like Pemberley, the Darcy family's firedrake. Everything is so exciting!
But Pemberley's rights to her territory have been challenged by her older half-brother, Bolsover. Will Darcy have to use the Dragon Slayer sword to uphold Pemberley's rights? Or will the plucky infant rise to the occasion and defend herself?
Stay tuned, folks ... things are getting even more interesting...
But Pemberley's rights to her territory have been challenged by her older half-brother, Bolsover. Will Darcy have to use the Dragon Slayer sword to uphold Pemberley's rights? Or will the plucky infant rise to the occasion and defend herself?
Stay tuned, folks ... things are getting even more interesting...
November 25, 2021
Finally - the Cotillion!
I love little Pemberley so much and am glad to have her in this book along with Elizabeth, Darcy, and all the other dragons. The Cotillion itself was delightful, as was all the intrigue leading up to it. But there's much more than the dance going on, of course! I can't wait for the next installment!
I love little Pemberley so much and am glad to have her in this book along with Elizabeth, Darcy, and all the other dragons. The Cotillion itself was delightful, as was all the intrigue leading up to it. But there's much more than the dance going on, of course! I can't wait for the next installment!
November 29, 2021
I want so badly to convince JAFF readers that this series is worth your time to give them a chance and read the first book, if you haven't already read the series up to this point. If you have, and haven't read THIS book yet my basic review is: I love, love, LOVED it. For the best review of the plot and understanding of the overall arc see Debbie's review of Oct. 31, '21.
Somehow I got my information wrong and when looking it up at Amazon to hopefully see if the audio book was available yet, thought when it said 'Book 8 out of 8' it meant that this one was the last in the Darcy/Elizabeth/Pemberley series and the stories would all wrap up by the end of the book. Oh My Goodness, I'm so glad I was wrong! I know our author plans to write about the Blue Order dragons in other Jane Austen book settings, sooooo. So. Back to book 8.
What a way to end the book! Just WHO is going to accompany the Darcys back to Pemberley?? Yikes! And what in the world has happened to Georgiana!?!? That sweet girl? Where is she? Besides those two story elements, I loved the introduction of new characters (except the bad guys (aplenty.)) I loved Mary's growing into a more poised, confident and sisterly sister. Loved Lydia's transformation. I yearned along with Darcy and Elizabeth as they struggled to find a moment for themselves without interruption. I really really disliked the disdain one particular leading member of the Blue Order showed in his speaking of Elizabeth...worse than the way he was treating her in the last book. I loved little (?) Pemberley in this book! Even more than previous books, if that's even possible.
Lastly, I cannot wait for the audio book. When reading Dragon Keepers Cotillion, I could almost hear Benjamin Fife's voice in my head at times narrating for me but I want the real deal!
Somehow I got my information wrong and when looking it up at Amazon to hopefully see if the audio book was available yet, thought when it said 'Book 8 out of 8' it meant that this one was the last in the Darcy/Elizabeth/Pemberley series and the stories would all wrap up by the end of the book. Oh My Goodness, I'm so glad I was wrong! I know our author plans to write about the Blue Order dragons in other Jane Austen book settings, sooooo. So. Back to book 8.
What a way to end the book! Just WHO is going to accompany the Darcys back to Pemberley?? Yikes! And what in the world has happened to Georgiana!?!? That sweet girl? Where is she? Besides those two story elements, I loved the introduction of new characters (except the bad guys (aplenty.)) I loved Mary's growing into a more poised, confident and sisterly sister. Loved Lydia's transformation. I yearned along with Darcy and Elizabeth as they struggled to find a moment for themselves without interruption. I really really disliked the disdain one particular leading member of the Blue Order showed in his speaking of Elizabeth...worse than the way he was treating her in the last book. I loved little (?) Pemberley in this book! Even more than previous books, if that's even possible.
Lastly, I cannot wait for the audio book. When reading Dragon Keepers Cotillion, I could almost hear Benjamin Fife's voice in my head at times narrating for me but I want the real deal!
November 1, 2021
Absolutely enchanting. Kept my interest all they way thru. I can't get enough of Maria's books. Please do not take long to get the next one out.
Need to know if there will be a lot of problems with the dragons in Pemberly. How will Lydia do? Snapdragons....will they capture the leader? How will Georgiana do? How did she get turned so badly and quickly?
Read this 2 times through. First to get the plot, second to capture details. Know I will read again.
Need to know if there will be a lot of problems with the dragons in Pemberly. How will Lydia do? Snapdragons....will they capture the leader? How will Georgiana do? How did she get turned so badly and quickly?
Read this 2 times through. First to get the plot, second to capture details. Know I will read again.
January 8, 2022
As has been noted, you must read this series in order. This is not a stand-alone story.
The main event is a challenge to the baby firedrake, Pemberley, and her ownership of the Pemberley estate. Mr. Bennet proves his value as the Blue Order Historian bringing attention to the way things were done in the past, to precedence.
The Cotillion is to be a means to officially introduce not only the baby dragon to the Blue Order but to also present Mr. Collins and his wife, Mary as the new Keepers of Longbourn and to introduce several other young ladies. It becomes a main event with two dragons facing each other in a fight for dominance, perhaps even to the death for one.
Georgiana proves to be a problem and is sent off to the same school which proved beneficial to Lydia. A new nurse is sought for the Darcys' daughter, Anne. And the fairy dragon, April, is healing from injuries related in the prior book.
This is not a romance but a fantasy. As the story has the parties traveling to the estate Pemberley at the end it is obvious that there is more to come.
Throughout this story Elizabeth's importance to the dragons as the dragon sage is emphasized various times. Darcy's need to use the dragon slayer sword is also of importance.
This is a long story so be prepared for that.
The main event is a challenge to the baby firedrake, Pemberley, and her ownership of the Pemberley estate. Mr. Bennet proves his value as the Blue Order Historian bringing attention to the way things were done in the past, to precedence.
The Cotillion is to be a means to officially introduce not only the baby dragon to the Blue Order but to also present Mr. Collins and his wife, Mary as the new Keepers of Longbourn and to introduce several other young ladies. It becomes a main event with two dragons facing each other in a fight for dominance, perhaps even to the death for one.
Georgiana proves to be a problem and is sent off to the same school which proved beneficial to Lydia. A new nurse is sought for the Darcys' daughter, Anne. And the fairy dragon, April, is healing from injuries related in the prior book.
This is not a romance but a fantasy. As the story has the parties traveling to the estate Pemberley at the end it is obvious that there is more to come.
Throughout this story Elizabeth's importance to the dragons as the dragon sage is emphasized various times. Darcy's need to use the dragon slayer sword is also of importance.
This is a long story so be prepared for that.
November 4, 2021
Another excellent entry in the Jane Austen's Dragons series!
Dragon Keeper's Cotillion picks up pretty much where the previous book, Dragons Beyond the Pale, left off. Elizabeth & Darcy, their sisters, Anne & Wentworth and all of their Dragon Mates and Friends are busy preparing for the Dragon Keeper's Cotillion. Additionally, the Wentworths are still working to include the sea dragons in the Pendragon Accords that govern dragon kind. Amidst all of this busyness, baby Pemberley is faced with a challenge to her territory, setting the whole family into concerned chaos.
As usual, Maria Grace balances the nuanced world of the Dragon Accords brilliantly with real life regency lifestyle. The worldbuilding is so wonderfully complex, with laws & histories so well-thought-out that they feel like they could be real. I found it quite interesting to see the directions some of the characters are taking at this point, as Mr. Darcy recognizes a grudging respect for the once annoying & ignorant Mr. Collins, while Lydia has made a full turn around in her acceptance of Dragonkind & Blue Order society. It is so much fun to read about these beloved Austen characters in such unfamiliar settings and situations.
Still, for me it is always the dragons who steal the show, and in this book that is no different. All of the minor dragons are present, and we get to know the young fairy dragons & tatzelwyrms a bit better. Many major dragons make appearances as well, including Rosings, Pemberley's brood mother, and Barwines Chudleigh, a beautiful & outspoken amphitere who is one of my personal favorites among the dragon characters. But best of all, as always, is adorable baby Pemberley. It has been so much fun experiencing her journey, and I sincerely look forward to many more books in this series.
Dragon Keeper's Cotillion picks up pretty much where the previous book, Dragons Beyond the Pale, left off. Elizabeth & Darcy, their sisters, Anne & Wentworth and all of their Dragon Mates and Friends are busy preparing for the Dragon Keeper's Cotillion. Additionally, the Wentworths are still working to include the sea dragons in the Pendragon Accords that govern dragon kind. Amidst all of this busyness, baby Pemberley is faced with a challenge to her territory, setting the whole family into concerned chaos.
As usual, Maria Grace balances the nuanced world of the Dragon Accords brilliantly with real life regency lifestyle. The worldbuilding is so wonderfully complex, with laws & histories so well-thought-out that they feel like they could be real. I found it quite interesting to see the directions some of the characters are taking at this point, as Mr. Darcy recognizes a grudging respect for the once annoying & ignorant Mr. Collins, while Lydia has made a full turn around in her acceptance of Dragonkind & Blue Order society. It is so much fun to read about these beloved Austen characters in such unfamiliar settings and situations.
Still, for me it is always the dragons who steal the show, and in this book that is no different. All of the minor dragons are present, and we get to know the young fairy dragons & tatzelwyrms a bit better. Many major dragons make appearances as well, including Rosings, Pemberley's brood mother, and Barwines Chudleigh, a beautiful & outspoken amphitere who is one of my personal favorites among the dragon characters. But best of all, as always, is adorable baby Pemberley. It has been so much fun experiencing her journey, and I sincerely look forward to many more books in this series.
July 31, 2023
Following on the heels of the previous installment, Dragons Beyond the Pale, Dragon Keeper's Cotillion opens in London with the lavish Blue Order event of the year, the Dragon Keeper's Cotillion at the forefront.
Dragon Keeper's Cotillion is the eight book in a strongly connected series of Gaslamp fantasies that mash together Jane Austen and dragons.
With multiple narrators, the book was always stepping out at a lively pace. There are three principle narrators, Elizabeth, Darcy, and Anne Wentworth, but an ever expanding cast of people and dragons who come in for their part in the story. Though the Cotillion looms for Elizabeth and the other ladies and some of the dragons, so too does the investigation into who are the betrayers of the Order and smugglers hurting dragons that were first encountered in the last book. From two didn't friend ends, the men and ladies work toward the same end.
There is lots of time when the dragon characters are as focal as the warm-bloods and some exciting story action points. The discovery of a possible secret society working counter to the Order was a new height for the series plot.
I enjoyed seeing Elizabeth still growing in understanding and experience that teach her that her instinct might have brought her into her work as Dragon Sage and Officer of the Order, but it isn't always a strength and she needs to learn to become a team player and trust others to have knowledge, too.
Things came to a head with willful Georgiana and with the challenge to Pemberley the firedrake's territory. Looking forward to what comes next.
Dragon Keeper's Cotillion is the eight book in a strongly connected series of Gaslamp fantasies that mash together Jane Austen and dragons.
With multiple narrators, the book was always stepping out at a lively pace. There are three principle narrators, Elizabeth, Darcy, and Anne Wentworth, but an ever expanding cast of people and dragons who come in for their part in the story. Though the Cotillion looms for Elizabeth and the other ladies and some of the dragons, so too does the investigation into who are the betrayers of the Order and smugglers hurting dragons that were first encountered in the last book. From two didn't friend ends, the men and ladies work toward the same end.
There is lots of time when the dragon characters are as focal as the warm-bloods and some exciting story action points. The discovery of a possible secret society working counter to the Order was a new height for the series plot.
I enjoyed seeing Elizabeth still growing in understanding and experience that teach her that her instinct might have brought her into her work as Dragon Sage and Officer of the Order, but it isn't always a strength and she needs to learn to become a team player and trust others to have knowledge, too.
Things came to a head with willful Georgiana and with the challenge to Pemberley the firedrake's territory. Looking forward to what comes next.
December 27, 2021
"Jane Ausen, but with dragons" should be an absurd premise, but Maria Grace weaves it into a wonderful, compelling series that has me anxiously waiting for each new instalment.
April 4, 2022
This fun series has gone from strength to strength. It started as a variation on P&P with some of the corrections you’d maybe thought would improve it: think bingley and Jane are boring ✅; think Mr B is a bit of a dick ✅; think Mary and Lydia were a bit hard done by ✅. Then it threw in a bit of Persuasion- my second favourite. And once it has the basics nailed it’s opened a whole world of regency manners and illegal anti dragon activity (within the Order itself 😳).
It’s fabulous and I hope you appreciate it as much as I have.
It’s fabulous and I hope you appreciate it as much as I have.
September 27, 2023
Bath buns & Balls, Conclaves & Cotillions, Dragons & Keepers. Musty libraries & Lovely Lydia, Secret passages, contested legal precedents, & minor dragons together for a fantasy Tale with the Pendragon Accords and contested Keeps in Regency England. What fun!
April 17, 2022
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Set in a Regency England with a large population of dragons.
This is book eight of Maria Grace’s Jane Austen’s Dragons series and follows directly on from book seven Dragons Beyond the Pale.
If you choose to read the entire series, the order should be; book four, A Proper Introduction to Dragons, then books one, two, three, five, six and seven.
Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy are senior officers of the Blue Order. Sir Fitzwilliam Darcy, knight of the Pendragon Order, has sworn to “protect and serve the interests of the Blue Order and dragonkind”.
Elizabeth is the Dragon Sage, respected by dragons and keepers for her skills and insight into dragon health, culture and psychology.
In book seven, Elizabeth was kidnapped and although safely recovered, life is not back to normal. The threat to her still remains. Traitors in the Blue Order are still at large.
Infant dragon, Pemberley is to be introduced to Blue Order Society at the Dragon Keepers' Cotillion, together with some of Elizabeth’s family and friends.
Unfortunately, the Cotillion board seems to contain the worst examples of Regency Society and they don’t like Elizabeth.
At the same time, a major threat is made against Pemberley’s territory. Darcy, as her keeper, faces the prospect of battling several adult dragons, as Pemberley is perceived as too young to fight for herself.
This latest chapter in the series combines intrigue, suspense and the power of loyal friends in overcoming adversity. I would recommend it to all fans of JAFF and fantasy.
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.
I look forward to more from Maria Grace. I received a free copy of this audiobook via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Set in a Regency England with a large population of dragons.
This is book eight of Maria Grace’s Jane Austen’s Dragons series and follows directly on from book seven Dragons Beyond the Pale.
If you choose to read the entire series, the order should be; book four, A Proper Introduction to Dragons, then books one, two, three, five, six and seven.
Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy are senior officers of the Blue Order. Sir Fitzwilliam Darcy, knight of the Pendragon Order, has sworn to “protect and serve the interests of the Blue Order and dragonkind”.
Elizabeth is the Dragon Sage, respected by dragons and keepers for her skills and insight into dragon health, culture and psychology.
In book seven, Elizabeth was kidnapped and although safely recovered, life is not back to normal. The threat to her still remains. Traitors in the Blue Order are still at large.
Infant dragon, Pemberley is to be introduced to Blue Order Society at the Dragon Keepers' Cotillion, together with some of Elizabeth’s family and friends.
Unfortunately, the Cotillion board seems to contain the worst examples of Regency Society and they don’t like Elizabeth.
At the same time, a major threat is made against Pemberley’s territory. Darcy, as her keeper, faces the prospect of battling several adult dragons, as Pemberley is perceived as too young to fight for herself.
This latest chapter in the series combines intrigue, suspense and the power of loyal friends in overcoming adversity. I would recommend it to all fans of JAFF and fantasy.
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.
I look forward to more from Maria Grace. I received a free copy of this audiobook via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
October 31, 2021
Avid Reader
While I enjoyed the story and Pemberly "s ability to defend her territory with the assistance of the minor dragons, the ending made no sense, which is is why I gave a four as my rating. Georgina proved to be a threat to Pemberly and the Blue Order while Lydia, thanks to Auntie and Mrs. Fielding's School demonstrated that she was worthy to be of assistance to Richard once they returned to Derbyshire and Pemberly, but how she would assist him was still unknown. Obviously, there's a follow-up to this book because the situation with the sea dragons as part of the Accords has not been handled, the fifth person wearing snap dragon jewelry hasn't been identified, and the selling of dragons and Dragon parts has not been resolved either. Mr. Bennet seems to be much needed in this book and had much to offer to everyone. He really liked Lady Wentworth. Getting rid of the original members of the Cottilion Board seemed to make everyone 's life much easier, especially after Pemberly danced the minuet along side Darcy and Elizabeth. She set precedent twice in one night.
While I enjoyed the story and Pemberly "s ability to defend her territory with the assistance of the minor dragons, the ending made no sense, which is is why I gave a four as my rating. Georgina proved to be a threat to Pemberly and the Blue Order while Lydia, thanks to Auntie and Mrs. Fielding's School demonstrated that she was worthy to be of assistance to Richard once they returned to Derbyshire and Pemberly, but how she would assist him was still unknown. Obviously, there's a follow-up to this book because the situation with the sea dragons as part of the Accords has not been handled, the fifth person wearing snap dragon jewelry hasn't been identified, and the selling of dragons and Dragon parts has not been resolved either. Mr. Bennet seems to be much needed in this book and had much to offer to everyone. He really liked Lady Wentworth. Getting rid of the original members of the Cottilion Board seemed to make everyone 's life much easier, especially after Pemberly danced the minuet along side Darcy and Elizabeth. She set precedent twice in one night.
February 21, 2023
The Blue Order is really showing some cracks in this book as we learn more about the smugglers introduced in the last book and the question of how high up their reach goes in the Blue Order is raised. Plus, Elizabeth continues to be wonderfully imperfect in her role, having to face her belief in the reasonability of dragons challenged as other dragons seek to fight territory disputes over grievances the Blue Order has left too unaddressed.
It's also interesting to see a Lydia who gets a more deserved spotlight after a transformation of character and to explore the question of "Does Georgianna have similar pride issues to what her brother had?"
It's a struggle to find new ways to praise Fife after being so deep into this series. I love his higher voices for the smaller dragons and the deeper tones he gives the lower dragons. His does the people justice too, no small feat with a cast of characters like this.
There is still so much left hanging at the end that I'm excited to start book 10 (as book 9 is all side stories).
It's also interesting to see a Lydia who gets a more deserved spotlight after a transformation of character and to explore the question of "Does Georgianna have similar pride issues to what her brother had?"
It's a struggle to find new ways to praise Fife after being so deep into this series. I love his higher voices for the smaller dragons and the deeper tones he gives the lower dragons. His does the people justice too, no small feat with a cast of characters like this.
There is still so much left hanging at the end that I'm excited to start book 10 (as book 9 is all side stories).
March 15, 2023
Enjoyable Edition To This Series
Strong 3.5 stars
I've enjoyed the majority of these books in the seres, with an average rating of approximately 3-4 stars.
This one was another decent addition, but
at this point in the series, although we're back to quite a few of the main characters, I've had to really stop, and try to remember just exactly who is who, how they're related to one another, and what their major role has been up to this point, in the main storyline. A lot of the characters have began to run together, with all the sisters, in-laws, friends, and dragons, plus any new ones thrown in, adds up to be quite a large number.
It took away some of the enjoyment from this particular book, but the plot line was still an engaging one, so I carried forward with reading it.
I've noticed this tends to happen, in long drawn out series. Especially in the fantasy genre, coupled with the extension that this seems to be the norm, rather than the rare. There's only a few more to go so I'm willing to stick it out to see how it all gets wrapped up.
Strong 3.5 stars
I've enjoyed the majority of these books in the seres, with an average rating of approximately 3-4 stars.
This one was another decent addition, but
at this point in the series, although we're back to quite a few of the main characters, I've had to really stop, and try to remember just exactly who is who, how they're related to one another, and what their major role has been up to this point, in the main storyline. A lot of the characters have began to run together, with all the sisters, in-laws, friends, and dragons, plus any new ones thrown in, adds up to be quite a large number.
It took away some of the enjoyment from this particular book, but the plot line was still an engaging one, so I carried forward with reading it.
I've noticed this tends to happen, in long drawn out series. Especially in the fantasy genre, coupled with the extension that this seems to be the norm, rather than the rare. There's only a few more to go so I'm willing to stick it out to see how it all gets wrapped up.
December 20, 2021
Do dragons dance?
This is number 8 of the `Jane Austen's Dragons' books and I'm beginning to feel that the series is past its peak. Dragon Sage Lady Elizabeth Darcy has little chance to shine in `Dragon Keeper's Cotillion' and is getting less and less like Austen's witty and charming Lizzie. Nor are the happily married Wentworths given very much to do. The main interest lies in seeing how Grace develops some of Austen's minor characters, such as Georgiana Darcy.
Grace keeps the plot going with a threat to adorable baby dragon Pemberley and by revealing new levels of treachery among the Dragon-Keepers of the Blue Order. I still enjoy Grace's inventive range of dragon types and her convincing descriptions of dragon behaviour but I do wonder if her Elizabeth and Darcy should now be left to enjoy their happy ending in peace. Lovers of Regency romances will though appreciate seeing the haughty patronesses of Almack's routed in this story.
May 29, 2022
I love this series! It is a clever, creative homage to Pride and Prejudice, my favourite book.
This author has done a wonderful job combining the original charcters from P&P into a completely new and entertaining world and story, peopled with dragons. I haven't been a particular fan of dragons before, but I love the personalities of all the dragons in this series. They are unique and interesting and I find all of them delightful!
If you love P&P and are open to acreative re-eimagining of the story and characters the I highly recommend Maria Grace's series about what Pride and Prejudice would be like in a world of dragons. Spoiler-alert: it's dramatic and dangerous, but a whole bunch of fun!
This author has done a wonderful job combining the original charcters from P&P into a completely new and entertaining world and story, peopled with dragons. I haven't been a particular fan of dragons before, but I love the personalities of all the dragons in this series. They are unique and interesting and I find all of them delightful!
If you love P&P and are open to acreative re-eimagining of the story and characters the I highly recommend Maria Grace's series about what Pride and Prejudice would be like in a world of dragons. Spoiler-alert: it's dramatic and dangerous, but a whole bunch of fun!
November 9, 2022
The Dragon Keeper's Cotillion is The Event of the season for the blue order. It is the introduction to society for female keepers, male keepers' wives and daughters, and, our course, baby dragons like the star of the show Pemberley.
But all is not well with our young baby dragon Pemberly. Her rights to her territory are being challenged.
Maria Grace brilliantly balances the world of the dragon accords with the inspiration from Jane Austen's regency tales. The world-building is complex and imaginative with many thoughts, rules, and history that you almost believe this is how the original stories should have been told. I love this book so much with the addition of the minor dragons and tatzelwyrms story being explored more.
On to the next one.
But all is not well with our young baby dragon Pemberly. Her rights to her territory are being challenged.
Maria Grace brilliantly balances the world of the dragon accords with the inspiration from Jane Austen's regency tales. The world-building is complex and imaginative with many thoughts, rules, and history that you almost believe this is how the original stories should have been told. I love this book so much with the addition of the minor dragons and tatzelwyrms story being explored more.
On to the next one.
May 29, 2023
I so want to give more than 5 stars. These stories are so awesome. The narrator does an excellent job. He is one of the best narrators ever. Now there is a question about Pemberly's territory. Larger dragons feel that a baby dragon has no business having a large territory. Some of them want to challenge her for it. Darcy & Elizabeth are terrified that she will have to fight to prove her dominance. However all dragons small and large are doing whatever they can to help. Elizabeth also has to deal with the presentations at the Cotillion and all the stuck up women on the committee as well. Simply a perfect series for any fantasy lover. I love this whole series so much & if you haven't started it then you should.
April 10, 2022
If you like Jane Austen or dragons or just a good fantasy story then this series is one that should definitely be read and enjoyed! It’s such a good series and I’ve loved getting to read them all and it’s even better to listen to them. I have loved all the different adaptations of good classics. It was also great to get more or Lizzy and Darcy’s story and also get more of our favorite young dragon. I really want more of this world and these characters. My favorites are always the dragons. They each have such unique personalities and it’s so much fun to see the traits of certain dragons. Definitely a series that’s best enjoyed in the correct reading order.
April 23, 2023
Once again, Maria Grace has done it.
If you feel curious after reading this eighth installment of Jane Austen with Dragons, please wait until you have read the first seven. This is a series with a capital S, and that's not a problem, but you have to get all the stories.
Need to know if there will be a lot of problems with the dragons in Pemberly. How will Lydia do? Snapdragons....will they capture the leader? How will Georgiana do? How did she get turned so badly and quickly?
Even though this should be a failed premise; Regency romance drama in a fantastical world filled with dragons, it just works!
If you feel curious after reading this eighth installment of Jane Austen with Dragons, please wait until you have read the first seven. This is a series with a capital S, and that's not a problem, but you have to get all the stories.
Need to know if there will be a lot of problems with the dragons in Pemberly. How will Lydia do? Snapdragons....will they capture the leader? How will Georgiana do? How did she get turned so badly and quickly?
Even though this should be a failed premise; Regency romance drama in a fantastical world filled with dragons, it just works!
March 2, 2025
The only thing better than seeing this world from both Anne's (Persuasion) and Elizabeth's (Pride and Prejudice) perspective is getting the two characters together and interacting. Almost from the instant I started reading things from Anne's POV, I just wanted to see the two characters meet, and minor spoiler, it is just as satisfying as I hoped it would be.
The dynamic between the two of them is fantastic, and shows just how different they are, but both such great characters in themselves.
Secondary minor spoiler: Dragon. Dancing. A minuet. That's all you need to know, now go read this book and stop reading my review. 😂
The dynamic between the two of them is fantastic, and shows just how different they are, but both such great characters in themselves.
Secondary minor spoiler: Dragon. Dancing. A minuet. That's all you need to know, now go read this book and stop reading my review. 😂
November 9, 2021
On edge
Marie Grace continues the saga of the Blue Order dragons big and small. This is definitely a book in a series, not a standalone, so please read on order and be prepared to hang on tender hooks for the next installment. With a few minor edits, easily overlooked, it is a hit the ground running read. I enjoyed the angst and and the outcomes. My only grip, and it is minor and comes from a mother's heart, is that I would like to see some actual interaction with Elizabeth and Darcy and their daughter.
Marie Grace continues the saga of the Blue Order dragons big and small. This is definitely a book in a series, not a standalone, so please read on order and be prepared to hang on tender hooks for the next installment. With a few minor edits, easily overlooked, it is a hit the ground running read. I enjoyed the angst and and the outcomes. My only grip, and it is minor and comes from a mother's heart, is that I would like to see some actual interaction with Elizabeth and Darcy and their daughter.
November 20, 2021
All this tension for a cotillion?
This is an intriguing tale, one that did not quite measure up to Ms. Grace’s previous works. I found the interactions between Lizzy and Darcy not the same as in prior tales. The Wentworths are more true to form.
I loved how the Cotillion Board were dismissed by none other than Rosings and Chudleigh! They got their comeuppance!
For the most part, this is mostly a bridging story between Lizzy’s abduction and the forthcoming book about the dragon smugglers. At least that is what I hope for.
This is an intriguing tale, one that did not quite measure up to Ms. Grace’s previous works. I found the interactions between Lizzy and Darcy not the same as in prior tales. The Wentworths are more true to form.
I loved how the Cotillion Board were dismissed by none other than Rosings and Chudleigh! They got their comeuppance!
For the most part, this is mostly a bridging story between Lizzy’s abduction and the forthcoming book about the dragon smugglers. At least that is what I hope for.
March 3, 2022
More Dragons Pretty Please
I know. Pride and Prejudice with dragons!!!!! But it is absolutely entertaining, suspenseful, tender and funny. All our favorite people are present: Elizabeth, Darcy, Mary, Mr. Collins , Jane and Bingley ect....with their Dragon Friends. This author has created a Regency England Jane Austen World that includes all kinds of dragons, all sizes temperaments colors and stations. Who could imagine there would be a certain kind of curtsy for a Dragon! Please read and let your imagine soar with this series!
I know. Pride and Prejudice with dragons!!!!! But it is absolutely entertaining, suspenseful, tender and funny. All our favorite people are present: Elizabeth, Darcy, Mary, Mr. Collins , Jane and Bingley ect....with their Dragon Friends. This author has created a Regency England Jane Austen World that includes all kinds of dragons, all sizes temperaments colors and stations. Who could imagine there would be a certain kind of curtsy for a Dragon! Please read and let your imagine soar with this series!
February 28, 2023
This was a long book, but very enthralling.
If you haven't read the first 7 books then don't start with this one. This entire series is truly spectacular. If you love Jane Austen, historical regency romance, with a massive dose of fantasy, then this series will delight and captivate you.
I would describe it as, Jane Austen's world colliding loosely with Sir Thomas Malory's, Arthurian literature. Oh how I wish we could have this made into a TV Show or if not that then at least made into illustrated Graphic Novels.
If you haven't read the first 7 books then don't start with this one. This entire series is truly spectacular. If you love Jane Austen, historical regency romance, with a massive dose of fantasy, then this series will delight and captivate you.
I would describe it as, Jane Austen's world colliding loosely with Sir Thomas Malory's, Arthurian literature. Oh how I wish we could have this made into a TV Show or if not that then at least made into illustrated Graphic Novels.
August 25, 2023
3.75*
Another enjoyable read in this series but not a favourite for me.
I very much enjoy this series but this book seemed a little too cluttered for me with too many threads running through. For me this was perhaps a book-and-a-half and needed to have at least one of the main plots saved or another book. Alternatively maybe the multiple subplots could have been omitted. Everyone seems permanently agitated and stressed - a large supply of regency antacids was definitely needed.
The characters remain engaging and lively and I will definitely continue on with the series.
Another enjoyable read in this series but not a favourite for me.
I very much enjoy this series but this book seemed a little too cluttered for me with too many threads running through. For me this was perhaps a book-and-a-half and needed to have at least one of the main plots saved or another book. Alternatively maybe the multiple subplots could have been omitted. Everyone seems permanently agitated and stressed - a large supply of regency antacids was definitely needed.
The characters remain engaging and lively and I will definitely continue on with the series.
November 2, 2021
Great series, just my kind of book, never boring
I have read the entire series and enjoyed every book. A good balance of romance, adventure, excitement and mystery. Love the dragon part the best.
I must admit that I sometimes get a bit lost in all the dragon protocols, genealogy ect.
In spite of that a great series and I recommend to everyone who enjoys Jane Austin with a difference.
I have read the entire series and enjoyed every book. A good balance of romance, adventure, excitement and mystery. Love the dragon part the best.
I must admit that I sometimes get a bit lost in all the dragon protocols, genealogy ect.
In spite of that a great series and I recommend to everyone who enjoys Jane Austin with a difference.
March 3, 2022
FANTASTIC RECOMMENDED CLEAN FANTASY SERIES.
I just love this set of books, the characters are fabulous, both the talking many types of dragons and their human estate keepers.
The books in audio form are between 6 and 14 hours long and narrated in full dragon glory by Benjamin Fife with fabulous descriptions of the scenery and action.
These are in my choice of top 10 books ever and l can recommend to young adults thru to any age with an imagination.
I just love this set of books, the characters are fabulous, both the talking many types of dragons and their human estate keepers.
The books in audio form are between 6 and 14 hours long and narrated in full dragon glory by Benjamin Fife with fabulous descriptions of the scenery and action.
These are in my choice of top 10 books ever and l can recommend to young adults thru to any age with an imagination.
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