A Language of Dragons by S.F. Williamson

What happens when you combine a 1920s war-torn London, codebreaking intrigue, and dragons? You get S.F. Williamson’s A Language of Dragons, a dazzling debut that blends fantasy, historical fiction, and a touch of romance. This story offers a thrilling mix of morally complex decisions, high stakes, and a richly crafted world that makes it one of the most compelling new releases of 2025.

Thank you S.F. Williamson, HarperCollins, and NetGalley for the free book.

What happens when you combine 1920s war-torn London, codebreaking intrigue, and dragons? You get S.F. Williamson’s A Language of Dragons, a dazzling debut that blends fantasy, historical fiction, and a touch of romance. This story offers a thrilling mix of morally complex decisions, high stakes, and a richly crafted world that makes it one of the most compelling new releases of 2025.

This book hooked me with its incredible world-building. The setting—a 1920s London where dragons exist as both allies and weapons—was utterly unique. From the bustling streets to the secretive halls of Bletchley Park, Williamson paints a vivid picture of a world teetering on the brink of chaos. The inclusion of a secret dragon language added an intellectual and magical layer that was fascinating to unravel.

Vivian was an excellent protagonist. Her moral struggles felt raw and real, especially as she was forced to choose between her family and the greater good. This constant tug-of-war made her journey emotionally charged and relatable. I appreciated the gray morality woven throughout the story, where no side was wholly good or evil.

The dragons themselves were another highlight. Their presence was both majestic and terrifying, and I loved how they were central to the plot rather than just background props.

While the main plot was compelling, I found myself less connected to some of the supporting characters. Gideon, Serena, and Katherine didn’t leave as strong of an impression as I hoped, and their roles often felt secondary to the narrative’s larger conflicts.

The slow-burn romance between Vivian and Atlas also lacked some emotional depth. While the tension was there, their connection occasionally felt shallow, which slightly dulled the impact of their moments together.

A Language of Dragons is a richly imagined and thought-provoking romantasy debut that excels in its world-building and moral complexity. The blend of dragons, historical intrigue, and high-stakes codebreaking makes for an unforgettable read. While the side characters and romance could have been more fleshed out, the story’s unique premise and gripping narrative more than make up for it.