Published: February 2013
Pages: 334
Series: The Memoirs of Lady Trent #1
Summary
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.
My thoughts
This book has taught me many things, one of those is that I should regard the reviews of others with a pinch of salt. Especially with a summary that I was incredibly intrigued by, I found myself putting off this book due to so many negative reviews. I absolutely LOVED this book. I am kicking myself for waiting so long..
You, dear reader, 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..
Let’s start with Lady Trent. This book kicks off the beginning as she retells her youth, her challenges with traditional gender roles and societal constraints of her time. Yet she has such determination to pursue her scientific interests and love of dragons despite the obstacles placed in her way. This is a story of her making her mark, taking charge of her life and facing the repercussions of her choices. She is an incredibly curious woman with not many friends on her side.
He regarded me with a bemused expression. “You want me for my library.”
Brennan’s writing style is evocative and engaging, I could feel the voice of Lady Trent as she recounted her adventures. The emotions in the writing was evident and I felt her excitement and adrenaline as well as her sadness as she told her tale. I loved the memoir-style, it felt very intimate as if I’m sat next to Lady Trent in front of a roaring fireplace conversing as friends. A common theme through this book is that I felt so much. I was right there alongside her, experiencing the thrill of discovering new species of dragons and the challenges of her social status.
“I wanted, in short, the intellectual life of a gentleman—or as close to it as I could come.”
With a supporting cast that are well-developed I really enjoyed seeing the relationships between them and Isabella. They are another highlight of the book and I am eager to see what happens with these characters through the series.
Lady Trent is such a strong, intelligent, and fiercely independent protagonist who defies the conventions of her time. Her passion for science and her unwavering determination to follow her dreams make her really inspiring. The other side is that she is very head-strung and often neglects other aspects of her life that need care, such as her family and friends. Her own growth through this book is meaningful and I can’t wait to see where she goes next.
“I don’t want you to pine away, Isabella. If it’s my job, as your husband, to take care of you, then I will do so—by giving you the life you need.”
What I loved the most (which I anticipated would be slightly boring going by much of the reviews) was the meticulous attention to detail to the world and its dragons. The dragons are portrayed as strong, deadly predators. They are complex creatures with their own unique anatomies, behaviours, and ecosystems and it all comes to life through Lady Trent. It’s clear that the author has done extensive research and put a great deal of thought into the biology of these creatures, which adds a wonderful layer of realism to the story.
“I knew the moment I saw that rock that you would not rest until you could perch atop it and watch for dragons.”
And the icing on the cupcake for me was the touch of romance that we get. It was very little but each word was perfectly written and conveyed such strong emotion is a very turbulent time. My poor heart was a mess through this book!
“I vowed on the spot to show no behaviour that might possibly be construed as birdbrained, from then until the end of time.”
Would I recommend?
Yes, yes and yes. Pick it up and give it a try. It’s written very well, there are lots of dragons, politics and friendships to be made. I adored it.