Step into the spellbinding world of Dawn of the Highland Dragon, where ancient dragon-shifters roam Victorian England, weaving tales of romance, mystery, and high-stakes adventure! This fantasy trilogy by Isabel Cooper blends the charm of historical romance with the thrill of paranormal intrigue, following the McAlisdair family as they guard their secret dragon nature in a society on the cusp of change. With its lush prose and unforgettable characters, this series is a hidden gem for fans of dragons and romance alike.
From misty Highland castles to bustling London streets, Dawn of the Highland Dragon captures the imagination with its unique mix of magic and manners. Whether you’re drawn to fiery heroines, brooding dragon lairds, or chilling supernatural threats, this series promises a journey that’s as enchanting as it is exhilarating.
How Dawn of the Highland Dragon Began
Isabel Cooper, a Boston-based author with a knack for blending genres, launched the Dawn of the Highland Dragon series in 2013. Inspired by her love for historical settings and fantasy, Cooper crafted a world where dragon-shifters coexist with Victorian society, hiding in plain sight. Her goal was to merge the elegance of the era—think corsets and gaslit streets—with the raw power of dragon mythology, creating a fresh take on paranormal romance. Cooper’s background in geek culture, from polyhedral dice to video games, infuses the series with a playful yet grounded tone.
The Heart of Dawn of the Highland Dragon
The trilogy kicks off with Legend of the Highland Dragon (2013), where Stephen McAlisdair, a dragon-shifter, navigates London’s high society while dodging a deadly enemy. His unlikely ally, Mina, a curious and bold secretary, uncovers his secret, sparking a romance that’s as fiery as his dragon form. The second book, The Highland Dragon’s Lady (2014), follows Colin McAlisdair and Regina, a telepathic heroine, as they unravel a haunted house mystery, blending ghost story chills with dragon-powered action. The trilogy concludes with Night of the Highland Dragon (2015), where Judith McAlisdair, a fierce dragoness, teams up with investigator William to solve a paranormal mystery in a remote Scottish village.
Cooper’s series shines through its themes of identity, freedom, and love against all odds. The McAlisdairs, bound by their vow to protect their clan, grapple with hiding their true selves in a world that would hunt them. The Victorian setting, with its rigid social norms and industrial upheaval, mirrors their inner struggles, while the romance arcs deliver steamy yet heartfelt connections. Cooper’s elegant prose and vivid world-building make the dragons feel both mythical and relatable, grounding the fantasy in historical authenticity.
Why Dawn of the Highland Dragon Resonates
Though not as widely known as some fantasy giants, Dawn of the Highland Dragon has carved a niche among readers who crave genre-blending stories. Its mix of historical romance, paranormal mystery, and dragon-shifter lore appeals to fans of authors like Gail Carriger or Kristen Callihan. Reviews praise Cooper’s ability to craft mature, nuanced characters—dragons who feel centuries old yet achingly human. The series’ focus on strong, independent heroines like Mina and Judith also resonates with readers seeking empowered female leads. Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to a world where magic and history collide, offering escapism with emotional depth.
- Publication Years: 2013–2015
- Number of Books: 3
- Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Historical Fiction
- Setting: Victorian England and Scotland
Ready to soar with dragons and fall in love under Victorian skies? Grab Legend of the Highland Dragon and dive into Isabel Cooper’s enchanting world of romance and mystery!