A Natural History of Dragons

A Memoir by Lady Trent

By: Marie Brennan

Narrated by: Kate Reading

Length: 10 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

Marie Brennan begins a thrilling new fantasy series in A Natural History of Dragons, combining adventure with the inquisitive spirit of the Victorian Age. You, dear listener, continue at your own risk. It is not for the faint of heart - no more so than the study of dragons itself. But such study offers rewards beyond compare: to stand in a dragon's presence, even for the briefest of moments - even at the risk of one's life - is a delight that, once experienced, can never be forgotten….All the world, from Scirland to the farthest reaches of Eriga, know Isabella, Lady Trent, to be the world's preeminent dragon naturalist. She is the remarkable woman who brought the study of dragons out of the misty shadows of myth and misunderstanding into the clear light of modern science. But before she became the illustrious figure we know today, there was a bookish young woman whose passion for learning, natural history, and, yes, dragons defied the stifling conventions of her day. Here at last, in her own words, is the true story of a pioneering spirit who risked her reputation, her prospects, and her fragile flesh and bone to satisfy her scientific curiosity; of how she sought true love and happiness despite her lamentable eccentricities; and of her thrilling expedition to the perilous mountains of Vystrana, where she made the first of many historic discoveries that would change the world forever.

"Saturated with the joy and urgency of discovery and scientific curiosity." (Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) on A Natural History of Dragons)

©2013 Bryn Neuenschwander (P)2013 Macmillan Audio

Dragons like you've never seen them.

What did you like best about this story?

It felt so natural and real. In the midst of the dangers and trials you were reminded the heroine was a naturalist at heart and the scientific observation and inquiries did not disappear in favor of action at moments of crisis.

Which scene was your favorite?

The exploration of the ruins I would have to say. It was a moment of timelessness in a world of the fantastic. The heroine and reader both shared a glimpse into ancient eons.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Oh very much so. I sank right into the book hated having to stop and start repeatedly.

Not Bad

I found this a solid read. It was entertaining and engaging, but not enough that I feel it is necessary to continue with the series. I don't think it is bad, but I can't say it is great.

Fantastic

This story had me mesmerized!! I wish there had been more. Loved it!! Very good.

Good story, but it promised more than I got

Kate Reading was an excellent choice of narrator for this book. The story was good, although it unfortunately made promises that it didn't forfilled in my view. To avoid to spoil the story, I can just say that it could and should had been more of scientific exploration in the story from the protagonist, who was in a good way written for such type of endevours :)
Even though I think the story lacked in that part, I will listen to the next escapades of Lady Trent :)

Am Absolute Delight

The capable and unflappable, if foolhardy Isabella becomes an advocate for the dragons at great cost. You will not be sorry you chose this book!

My New Favorite!!!

I am usually a mystery, thriller, fiction, dog themed, classic fiction, and sometimes a decent "romance" book reader, but the description of this book made me step outside my usual genres. I'm so glad I decided to take a chance...I sped through this book! I've already added the entire series to my wishlist and am itching to continue these historic fantasy dragon tales!
Marie Brennan writes beautifully; pulling me into the world of Lady Trent, dragons, and adventures in strange lands. Her descriptions allowed me to envision and escape into the book; imagination has no bounds with this remarkable author!
Kate Reading is phenomenal as the narrator. Her voice embodies Lady Trent; tales of her love, life, adventures, dragons and so much more.
If you are on the fence regarding a fantasy book about dragons, climb down and get this book...I'm happy I did, as is my non-bookish husband!

Lovely story, excellent reading

A lovely "memoir" told by an older woman who overcomes the odds in her world in order to become a natural scientist who studies dragons. Her passion takes her on adventures with both rewards and losses. Superb reading by the appropriately named Kate Reading adds to the charm of the main character. I am looking forward to the next in the series!

Eye of the beholder

I love this take on fantasy and dragons! It was very intriguing. With the perfect balance of a scientific take as well as a story and an adventure!

Not what i expected but pleasantly surprised!

Great story cant wait to download the next in the series! Preformance was spot on!

Rather boring

Is there anything you would change about this book?

Add more info on the biology of dragons.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

I thought it was rather trite and rushed in it's execution. Went from a naturalist memoir to a Scooby-doo style mystery.

What does Kate Reading bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

A perfect accent for a Victorian lady.

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

Maybe

Any additional comments?

I don't plan to continue the series.