A review by literarypenguin
A Natural History of Dragons by Marie Brennan

adventurous medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A Natural History of Dragons is a story taking place in the Victorian Era where we follow a woman named Isabella. Isabella is a feisty young woman who develops a love for dragons & a want to learn more about them. Because of the times she has grown up in, Isabella can't pursue her desire to learn about dragons but an opportunity comes her way. When an expedition by a wealthy man to a foreign county to study dragons with a small group of researchers she jumps at the chance to finally fulfill her dream at last.    

The first thing I want to say is how much I enjoyed how the dragons were weaved into the environment and how other people's knowledge about them is constantly evolving the more they learn about them. It was nice to see a fantasy creature implemented like this into a story. The only thing I thought was that the plot did get a little out there towards the end. It didn't deter me though and still enjoyed the story!    

I loved Isabella as a character and how she evolved into a stronger person by the end of the book. How she went through so much but she made it through it all even a horrific tragedy that I hope won't change the feeling of the rest of the series as it goes on. I might read the others sometime in the future but this still was a very good read and I recommend it! 
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