This book was good. I liked the focus on language and how it connects. The political aspect is one seen in other books. Vivian was a tough character to like.

Typically I read pretty fast. While the story was interesting the fmc made it hard to get through the story. I didn’t really get much od the academia vibes ie slowburn. The premise and story were great I just didn’t click with the fmc tbh.

This? Absolutely my cup of tea. The Hunger Games meets Babel with some dragons thrown in--a truly great political fantasy.

“People shouldn’t fear their prime ministers. Prime ministers should fear their people.” -S.F. Williamson

What if The Imitation Game had dragons and a more authoritarian government and you have A Language of Dragons. I ended up really enjoying this book and I thought it was a unique entry into a bit of a crowded YA fantasy/dark academia field.

Something about me is that I love when Dragons talk in books. Throw in an alternate universe England AND dragon espionage and rebellious teens at Bletchley Park and I am very much the target audience.

Thanks to @netgalley for the ARC.

If you’re always on the hunt for a book with dragons (who isn't?!), and you’d like something that’s less “dragon riding” and more “political strife with dragons”, might I suggest picking up A Language of Dragons by S.F. Williamson? I absolutely devoured this book, and if you loved Babel by R.F. Kuang, you’ll probably love this story too. Think linguistics, translations, and dark academia vibes. While this story takes place in an alternate history of Post WWI Great Britain where dragons and humans have a peace treaty, it’s tackles many real world issues like classism, prejudice, lack of free speech, travel bans, and segregation. There’s also a romantic subplot for those that need a little romance in their reads, but it’s definitely not the main focus, although it does propel the story forward at times. I’m a sucker for historical fiction fantasy, and it's set in 1923, so the lack of modern conveniences lend itself well to a world with dragons. I found the main character to be absolutely insufferable (the author did this on purpose), but I felt the ensemble cast made it a super engaging read. At times, the plot does seem predictable and simple, but keep in mind, it is YA. There’s also some villains that will absolutely enrage you, and a resistance you’ll want to be part of. And the dragons? Obsessed. More dragons please. I also have to recommend the audiobook, which was fantastic. Let’s get into it, shall we?

Things to Know:
Debut YA novel
Alternate British History
Historical Fiction Fantasy
Classism, Prejudice, Racism
TW: death on page, gore, torture, SA
Found family
Great banter
Political intrigue
MORE Dragons (even a pink one)!


***MINOR SPOILERS FROM HERE ON OUT—YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!***

Vivien Featherswallow is a hard FMC to root for. In this case, her ruthless ambition, and questionable beliefs were very much on purpose, but made it hard to fully enjoy the story because I wanted to shake her constantly. How can you be so dense and selfish, and indoctrinated, girl?! We first meet Vivian while she’s getting ready to go out with her cousin, Marquis. We learn very quickly there’s a class system in place, and her family is part of the Second Class with some privileges, and the first chapter hits this home hard with them witnessing a protest that results in spilled blood of the Third Class.

Vivian’s the quintessential teacher’s pet, and it’s hinted at constantly throughout the novel that she did something pretty unforgivable to her best friend, Sophie, during their exam the previous term, which resulted in Sophie being demoted to Third Class. At first it drove me nuts that we had no idea what she did to Sophie because it’s referenced so much, but it truly is a journey, and I can tell you, you do find out in the end. She’s a very real character who’s extremely flawed, but would also do anything to rescue her family who are all arrested for aiding a Rebellion.

I absolutely loved the linguistic aspect of this novel, and while some may find it boring, I ate up all the explanations and descriptions of the different dragon languages and theories on how they’re communicating. The writing style is still super accessible though, and when Vivian finds herself with her cousin as a secret government location as a code breaker in the war effort she accidentally started, there’s nonstop action and political intrigue. We meet a diverse cast of characters, and a potential love interest.

I personally didn’t like that her love interest was a Priest-in-training. It felt like Viv was trying to corrupt him in a way, and I didn’t love the way faith was addressed, but I will acknowledge that it also made Atlas a great flawed character. He was the foil to Viv, trying to show her the right path. But oh, is that path difficult. Sophie conveniently also happens to be at this site. And when Viv is pitted against her, and everyone she arrived with to break the code first, you’re left wondering if she’ll continue being a coward and make the ultimate selfish decision that could save her sister and parents, or the potential to save thousands of others.

What would you do if you had the chance to make an impact for the greater good, but you might have to sacrifice everyone you love? It’s honestly a super hard question, and forces you to question how can you choose a good life for yourself at the detriment of everyone else.

Lastly, I must give praise to the dragons! I loved them. As with most dragons, they are snarky and proud, and I have a special place in my heart for Chumana, the pink dragon, who absolutely stole the show.

It’s still unclear to me if this book is a standalone or not. I did feel the ending left it very much open to a sequel, so I’ll be keeping an eye out for any news. I’d also note that although this is technically a YA novel, the story is super relevant for older audiences. Many thanks to Harper Collins for an eArc to review. All opinions are my own.

Fave Quotes:

“Atlas, languages are like that. You can say the same thing a hundred different ways, and occasionally one of those ways is so unique to the translator that it is impossible to reproduce. No other translator will use the same words, the same rhythm, the same turn of phrase ever again. Translating is creating, too.”

—

“To control languages, to control words, is to control what people know.”

—

“Riding is for horses. I am permitting you to take refuge on my back. Now hurry up before I change my mind.”

—

“Peace isn’t peace if it’s only given to some.”

—

“We live in a world that permits everything but forgives nothing.”

—

“Every act of translation requires sacrifice.”

—

“Your whole life has been built on what you can do. So much so that you have no idea who you are.”

I went into this book excited because dragons. I think the story was good. It had an interesting plot, and characters. I thought the idea of dragons speaking multiple languages including English was interesting. I really enjoyed to overall storyline . The one thing that took away from the story for me was the main female character . She was so spoiled, self-involved, and clueless about anything that doesn't involve her. Even when evidence of the corruption ,she is continually shocked over and over. It doesn't feel like she doesn't learn even though the book keeps describing her as practically a genus. That made me take stars off.

I really tried to give this one a shot, especially since so many are loving it, but it was sort of a disappointment for me. I wanted Fourth Wing, I think, and this is surely not it. The story was taking so long to develop, and the FMC's whining and decisions were insufferable - so you might die, but you release a dragon? like wtf? I DNFd there - it needs more romance, more dragons, and LESS of the FMC. Sorry, it was not for me.

I loved the premise of this book. Dragons? Languages? I'm in! I will say that the pacing was a little bit off for me at some points that I had to skip a few parts.

If we’ve learned anything from the astonishing success of Rebecca Yarros and her multi-part FOURTH WING series, it’s that readers today don’t just want dragons — they crave them. And boy, does S.F. Williamson deliver on that demand. While A LANGUAGE OF DRAGONS does not quite ascend to the ranks of the FOURTH WING/Yarros fandom, I can see Williamson easily inspiring her own cult following with the release of this book. A LANGUAGE OF DRAGONS is fast-paced and packed to the brim with deadly stakes and the blurry lines between love and hate. It’s part historical fiction, part romantasy, and full fun. You won’t want to miss this one!

A Language of Dragons by S.F. Williamson is the start of a new historical fantasy series with dragons.
 
The story is set in Victorian England in the 1920s in an alternate London and that was so cool to see. In this world humans and dragons have reached a peace agreement but that is on the brink of failing and the world is faced with a civil war. and I really liked how there were so many parallels to our world like corrupt leaders and governments, society in different classes and so much more. It totally included female rage and a revolution is necessary and it made me root for the characters even more.
 
Our protagonist is Vivien Featherswallow, and she is obsessed with learning all about the dragon languages and I loved this linguistic and academia focus of the story and it totally gave Babel vibes. Vivien is such a driven and strong character but that the same time she has done a lot of wrong things and I liked how she started to reflect herself and to see the world with different eyes. Her family is an immigrant family from Bulgaria and her parents also work with the dragons and they are made an example out of and prosecuted for being rebels. And when Vivien wants to help them, she gets into trouble and is faced with prison time or working for a special program for the government.
 
I honestly don’t want to tell a lot more but let me tell you the plot was so gripping, and I couldn’t put this book down. The plot twists and reveals kept me on the edge of my seat and at the end my mind was blown with how thought out this book was. I also loved a lot of the other characters like the dragon Chumana and Vivien‘s cousin Marquis. And one of my favorites was Atlas who is a priest-in-training, but he has feelings for Vivien. The romance was just a spark in this book, but I loved seeing where it was going, and it was another amazing aspect of this story.
 
Overall, I’m obsessed with this book, and it shows dragons in such a cool and unique way with amazing characters and a gripping plot. 5 stars and I already can’t wait for the next book.
 
(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an arc.)

I really enjoyed this story! I loved how everything fit together and how the humans and dragons interacted. I felt like the pacing was done really well, I was hooked at the beginning and never got bored. Sometimes with heavy world building you can get a little bogged down and have trouble picking the book up but that was not the case. Would definitely recommend!


Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for This ARC.

Thank you to Harper Collins for my e-review copy. My opinions are my own.

Dragons, alternate history, 1920’s, class system, London, and a plot to over throw the government… and did I mention dragons?

My thoughts:
I really enjoyed reading this story and regret not reading it sooner. It’s fast paced, filled with interesting characters, dragons that aren’t necessarily good or bad guys, borderline bad guys, out right evil people, a social class system that is a slippery slope, multiple languages, and code breaking. I was interested in the story and then hooked when the characters met up at Bletchley and more of the history of what is actually going on came to light.
I liked the dragons, especially since they have their own languages, Viv has the audacity to want to be a dragon translator, and then figures out a massive secret regarding the dragons. I'm intrigued as to what will happen next given where the story ends.

Highly recommend!

Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for sending me an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!

The whole synopsis on the back is what got me and I'll try to summarize lol. Alternative timeline England, WWII era. In which dragons live amongst people openly, and their languages are studied. A girl wants to go to college for this, having trained her whole life, but her family gets blown apart with accusations of treason and she's told the only way to save them is to secretly enter a code breaking team trying to understand a secret code of the dragons.

Oh man this book took me on a ride. There's romance, tragedy, intrigue, DRAGONS (did I mention the dragons?), betrayals, politics....the list goes on and on and honestly? I was here for all of it. I can't wait for book 2, cliffhanger and all.

A Language of Dragons by S.F. Williamson is an extraordinary debut that masterfully intertwines fantasy, political intrigue, and the rich nuances of linguistics. Set in an alternate 1923 London, the narrative delves deep into the complexities of a society striving to maintain harmony between dragons and humans, all while grappling with a rigid class system.

The protagonist, Viv, embarks on a compelling journey to decode a hidden dragon language, a task that initially seems straightforward but soon unravels the unsettling realities of her sheltered existence. Her character development is profound, evolving from naivety to a courageous confrontation of societal injustices. This transformation is both authentic and inspiring, resonating deeply.

Williamson's world-building is nothing short of mesmerizing. The dark academia ambiance enriches the narrative, providing a backdrop that is both atmospheric and immersive. The intricate portrayal of political dynamics and social hierarchies adds depth, making the world feel both expansive and intricately detailed.

The novel also explores a subtle, slow-burn romance that enhances the story without overshadowing the central themes. This delicate balance ensures that the romantic subplot complements the overarching narrative, adding emotional depth without detracting from the primary storyline.

A Language of Dragons is a thought-provoking and unputdownable read, filled with unexpected twists, betrayals, and revelations. It's a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and dark academia, and it firmly establishes S.F. Williamson as a remarkable new voice in the literary world.

Set in a dystopian Europe, Vivian dreams of following her academic ambitions and never questions the system despite its harshness: until the day her parents are accused of a crime. Desperate to free them, Viv and her cousin find themselves in a strange academy, with a mission to decode the secrets of dragons, who are both allies and enemies on both sides of the coming war…

This fast-moving YA has commingles fresh ideas with old ones: “Every act of translation requires sacrifice.” A sentiment close to that of the Italian saying, echoed in Babel, where translation is an act of betrayal. Similarly, “People shouldn’t fear their prime ministers. Prime ministers should fear their people” is markedly similar to the iconic slogan of V For Vendetta. Whilst there are some quirks of the language that may annoy the British or linguists, the real strength in it is the character growth as you see Viv’s development and realisation of the world she was raised in, and who she truly is. An enjoyable work. 3,5 rounded up.

3.5 stars rounded up to 4!

Overall, I think that I enjoyed this book but was disappointed in a few of the purported selling points. I thought the fantasy setting and world building was very fun, and I always enjoy a good dragon book! The author definitely put a lot of effort into crafting a "vibe" for this book, and to an extent I think that that worked. However, the biggest challenge this book faced was the way that the romance was described, and then the way it was ultimately written.

The romance was described as being a "slow burn, enemies to lovers" type of romance, BUT our main characters really... weren't ever enemies? They were immediately interested in each other, and while that *can* work with enemies, the energy that the characters gave off didn't suggest that there was ever actually tension happening between them.

Aside from that I found it to be a rather enjoyable read, and I'll be sure to keep up with the author in the future.
As always, thank you so much to both Netgalley and the Publisher for allowing me to read and review this ARC.

Thank you Netgalley and S. F. Williamson for the opportunity to read this ARC. If you've got a hangover from the Empyrean series, or miss the dystopian drama of the Divergent series... this book is for you. If you are angry at the state of the world right now, and are worried we're headed towards the Handmaid's Tale... this book is for you... If you are fascinated by class systems, dragons, and/or linguistics... this book is for you. I am all of the above listed things, so this book was a total hit for me. I am saddened that this book has just released, because it means I have to wait that much longer until we find out what happens next!

Living in 1923 London, a society divided and restricted by a class system, Viv is desperate to ensure that she and her little sister will never have to be reduced to third class. In her desperation, she is forced to do things that she is not proud of.

The last thing that she expected is for her parents to be arrested for rebelling against the system that she has spent her life working towards. In her attempts to save them, she sets off a cascade of events that changes everything. She is taken to Bletchley Park to study as a code-breaker and if she succeeds then her family will be released and cleared of the charges against them. But, when Viv again has to choose between her family and the greater good, what will she do?

I loved how the reader is forced to question their own ethics, who do you choose when it really comes down to it? We would all like to say that we would choose the greater good but is it really that simple? The worldbuilding is well done and the characters are intricately nuanced, lovable with their flaws and we are able to connect with their feelings of desperation. The political themes are well developed and again, make you question everything that has until now, been "fact." I find that this is always a good sign if a fictional story makes you question history in general. And there is a PINK DRAGON. Need I say anything more?

I did find the story lagging in certain areas but due to the nature of linguistics, it was inevitable and was not overly tiresome. The last few chapters have you reading well into the night as you just won't be able to stop.

Pick this up if you are a fan of dark academia, you are bound to enjoy it.

4 confused stars.

Don't get me wrong, this book was good and I enjoyed reading it, but I feel like the description is a bit... misleading?

(mild spoilers)

This book is fast paced and the plot has some really interesting twists and turns. The world building is good, and the alt-history setting of wartime Bletchley Park is super interesting! I also love the lore we get about the dragons (which talk and are sentient) and how they were historically integrated into Brittania's society.

That said, since I have a habit of barely glancing at book descriptions and picking them based on ~vibes~ I didn't have any complaints til I went to write up my review, and realized that if you are someone who reads the descriptions, you might not agree at all.

Some issues I have with it based on the description:

Slow-burn, enemies to lovers romance: The romance is bland and underdeveloped, and describing this book as a romantasy is comical. It felt like the author copy-pasted a pretty generic romance because it was a required checkbox, however, this didn't really bother me while reading because the romance took up very little page time. (but again, it seems disingenuous to call this romantasy because it just is not) Also, they weren't enemies at any point.

Dark Academia setting: The setting is not a school? girl quit lyin. Yes, they talk about school a lot because the MC wants to study languages, but this takes place at Bletchley Park, which is not academia?

My biggest issue: This book isn't explicitly described as a standalone, but the story does NOT conclude at the end. The main conflict, aka the civil war, is not resolved at the end, not even close! But there is no mention of a sequel. I don't know if there will be another. I do not know if the author left it open ended on purpose because they were hoping to get a book deal for a second and it didn't happen? Idk, but when I hit the 80% mark and realized there was no way it was going to wrap up I was irritated. I would read the sequal if there was one, but I would have preferred to know that beforehad.

Good book for those in a Four Wing series slump. Has the same world building style with a mix of dragons, government bureaucracy, and a strong willed female lead. I appreciated that they was a YA- there was some romance in it, but not the sauciness that you may see in other similar series. Also really loved the setting in and around London- I thought it was a creative way to reuse the Bletchley Park program of codebreaking during WWII. 4 stars.