To Shape a Dragon"s Breath is an intricately written fantasy, highly detailed and descriptive. I loved the author's depictions of dragons and their history interacting with the people of this world.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review this title. All opinions and mistakes are my own.

This story sounds like an absolutely compelling blend of fantasy, cultural commentary, and coming-of-age adventure.

At its heart, this is a powerful tale about resistance, identity, and reclaiming tradition in the face of colonial systems. Anequs’s journey—from the reverent dragon-bonded of her people to an outsider forced into a foreign institution—sets the stage for a rich exploration of whose knowledge is valued, what traditions are erased, and who gets to wield power. The dragon school premise adds a familiar fantasy flavor, but it’s subverted by the cultural conflict and Anequs’s refusal to be molded into the Anglish ideal.

This Nordic-inspired, steampunk-adjacent, anti-colonial, polyamorous, queer, dragon academia fantasy with dragons on literally every page (no exaggeration), was really original and captivating.

If you liked Andarna from that other dragon fantasy boarding school book, there is a good chance you’ll be enamoured with Kasaqua. This adorable baby dragon has bonded with Anequs, our 15-year-old Masquisit protagonist, and their relationship is gorgeous. But what really sets it apart is how their bond reflects the book’s deeper themes. Anequs sees Kasaqua as a partner, an equal, she belongs to her dragon. Meanwhile, the Anglish settlers see dragons as something to be tamed, controlled, and wielded as status symbols. This fundamental clash of ideologies of coexistence vs. domination mirrors the larger cultural struggle at the heart of the book.

Anequs, our protag, refuses to contort herself to fit into a world designed to exclude and erase her. She’s constantly underestimated, patronised and expected to assimilate. The microaggressions aren’t just coming from overtly racist villains, either, although there are plenty of those too. They’re embedded in the well-meaning classmates who patronise and condescend to her, whilst believing they’re being kind. In the teachers who think that “including” her means forcing her to conform rather than questioning why the system was built to erase people like her in the first place.

The novel unpacks the insidious ways colonialism operates which is not just through violence, but through the erasure of culture, language and autonomy. Fortunately, Anequs finds true friends along the way, and I especially loved the neurodivergent rep in one of them and the author’s nuanced characterisation of them all.

That said, while the book nails its themes, Anequs herself sometimes feels too perfect. Don’t get me wrong, I adore and admire her. She’s beautiful, brilliant, self-assured, compassionate, effortlessly competent, and somehow never truly shaken, no matter what gets thrown at her. And while I love that she doesn’t have to suffer to be worthy of her own story, I wish she had more internal conflict. Her arc is largely about proving herself to others rather than experiencing meaningful personal growth, and that makes her journey feel a bit static. That said, I do adore how she can verbally eviscerate someone in a debate and her directness. I’d pay money to watch.

Besides that, the other Indigenous characters aren’t a monolith, they’re layered and compelling. Anequs’ brother believes that working within the Anglish system could be a way to help their people. Another student, orphaned and raised to be a “model” servant, has internalised Anglish superiority to survive. Survival under colonial rule forces difficult choices, and the book respects those complexities.

Even the romance subplot resists easy categorisation. Instead of slotting into a traditional love triangle or fated-mates trope, it challenges ideas of love, gender, and monogamy in ways that feel organic to the world. Love itself is explored as something shaped by the systems we exist within, who we’re “allowed” to love, under what conditions, and with what expectations.

Anyways, if you love dragons in your academia and fantasy books, you’re going to love this. I found the rich themes, compelling world and decolonisation of engrained social attitudes super refreshing and empowering. There is also a lot of academia and exposition in the classroom itself. I’m so eager to see where the author takes the story for book two. Highly recommend!

A big thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Del Rey for the digital review copy in exchange for an honest review.

When I finished To Shape a Dragon’s Breath, I felt as if I had come down from the best day I’ve ever had. The adrenaline and excitement I felt as Anequs and Kasaqua, her dragon, were forced into an Anglish school and customs so far removed from the culture Anequs grew up in, was exhilarating. As I closed the cover, metaphorically of course, on my e-galley, I instantly wanted to know what was next for my beloved duo. It’s safe to say I would reach each and every book Moniquill Blackgoose puts out, based on this book alone. Beyond that, the exposure to a lore that I did not know a thing about, had me rushing to turn page after page. I definitely give this book 5 out of 5 stars, and eagerly await the sequel in the Nampeshiweisit series.

"Only with great reluctance do they allow Anequs to enroll in a proper Anglish dragon school on the mainland. If she cannot succeed there, her dragon will be killed. For a girl with no formal schooling, a non-Anglish upbringing, and a very different understanding of the history of her land, challenges abound—both socially and academically. But Anequs is smart, determined, and resolved to learn what she needs to help her dragon, even if it means teaching herself. The one thing she refuses to do, however, is become the meek Anglish miss that everyone expects. Anequs and her dragon may be coming of age, but they’re also coming to power, and that brings an important realization: the world needs changing—and they might just be the ones to do it."

I enjoyed this story overall, but did get a little bored at times. I have to pick up a book pretty much anytime it is about dragons, and I am glad I picked up this one. Anequs was a great main character to follow. The author did a pretty good job at world building, but I do wish there was more about the dragons. There is almost never enough about dragons in dragon themed books.

To Shape a Dragon’s Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose is a captivating and immersive fantasy novel that blends rich cultural traditions with the thrill of dragon taming. At the heart of the story is Anequs, a young Indigenous girl who becomes the guardian of a dragon egg and embarks on a journey to an academy where she must train her dragon while facing prejudice and societal challenges.

Blackgoose crafts a world that feels both magical and grounded, drawing on Indigenous culture and storytelling to create an immersive setting. The vivid descriptions and strong character development make the plot come alive, while the themes of identity, resilience, and challenging systems of power resonate deeply. Despite exploring heavy themes like colonialism and cultural identity, the novel remains a compelling and heartfelt read, balancing moments of tension with quieter, reflective scenes that allow characters to grow.

Anequs is a relatable, determined protagonist whose voice feels genuine as she navigates a world that doesn't always accept her. The novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys fantasy with substance, unforgettable characters, and stories that celebrate diversity. Highly recommended for those looking for a rich, engaging story that lingers long after the final page.

Great book overall. A young woman attends the colonist school to learn how to bond and train her found dragon. She tries to fit in but has a difficult time and starts calling out all the bs they engage in. If you enjoy story’s about classism, discrimination, colonialism and its impact, this is for you!

I adored this book. Anequs' is a fascinating main character, trying to balance her thirst for knowledge and protection of her dragon with the realities of a government not built for those who look, think, act or believe like her. The characters have a depth and awareness to them that can sometimes be lacking in novels which so heavily feature dragons. Anequs' journey is engrossing and I eagerly await the next book in this series.

Very unique story which was very enjoyable! Loved the similarities to Babel one of my favorite reads of 2024. Plus dragons are always a good thing!

To Shape a Dragon’s Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose is a fresh and engaging take on fantasy, set in a world that combines rich cultural traditions with the thrill of dragon taming. At its heart, the story is about identity, resilience, and fighting for your place in a world that doesn’t always accept you.

The story follows Anequs, a young Indigenous girl who discovers a dragon egg and becomes its guardian. Her journey takes her to an academy where she faces both the challenge of training her dragon and the prejudices of a society that looks down on her people. Anequs is a smart and determined protagonist, and her voice feels genuine and relatable as she navigates a new environment while staying true to her roots.

One of the book’s standout features is its world-building. Blackgoose skillfully blends elements of Indigenous culture and storytelling with the fantasy genre, creating a world that feels both magical and grounded. The descriptions of dragon training, the academy, and the social dynamics are detailed and immersive without being overwhelming.

This is more than just a fantasy story—it’s also a powerful exploration of colonialism, cultural identity, and what it means to challenge systems of power. But even with its deeper themes, the book remains an exciting and heartfelt read that’s hard to put down.

To Shape a Dragon’s Breath is perfect for readers who enjoy fantasy with substance, compelling characters, and stories that celebrate cultural diversity. It’s a standout novel that leaves you eager for the next chapter in Anequs’s journey.

Rating: 4.5/5

Profound insight on how Native people are treated in the Americas through a consumable fantasy lens. Highly recommend for young readers around 14

Along the lines of Iron Widow, I loved How to Shape a Dragon’s Breath! I can’t wait for the next book to come out. That characters are well developed and there is strong representation, the complications of colonization and capitalism are woven expertly, both literally and metaphorically, into the story line, and I am here for all of it.

To Shape a Dragon's Breath is a really cool start to a new fantasy series. The world feels alive with dragons and magic, and it’s such a fresh take on things. The main character is easy to root for, and watching her grow throughout the story is awesome. There’s a nice mix of action and moments that hit deeper, and it keeps you hooked the whole way through. Definitely a fun, engaging read that leaves you wanting the next book!

A unique take on dragon fantasy and academia. The commentary on colonialism and reclaiming one's identity is very reminiscent of Babel.

This book is a captivating and immersive read that hooks you from the first page. The writing is beautifully crafted, with vivid descriptions and strong character development that makes the story come alive. The plot is well-paced, balancing moments of tension with quieter, reflective scenes that allow the characters to grow. The themes explored are deep and thought-provoking, resonating long after the final page. Whether it's the emotional depth, the twists and turns of the plot, or the unforgettable characters, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys rich, engaging stories. Highly recommended

I wanted to be into this book because...well, dragons. I was unable to really get into it and it was likely due to the style of writing and story telling. I ended up DNFing it around 40-45%. Giving it 3 stars because there was an attempt and I am sure there are many readers out there who would adore this book and love the storyline.

Love a YA book with dragons, and this was a fun start to a new series. Waiting eagerly for more instalments in this world.

Thank you NetGalley for the readers' copy.

You had me at Dragons.
But Indigenous woman with a Dragon? I’m IN.
While the other dragon riding academy book (that shall not be named) reads like a YA book, this is a YA fantasy that doesn’t read as such.
I know we shouldn’t be comparing but I can’t help it.
While this book forsakes the huge battles to save the world stereotype, its strength is the characters and world building. The social and political commentary hit hard and it doesn’t shy away from the cultural appropriation and blatant racism taking place within the story.

Like what Melissa Blair did with Broken Blade, the amalgamation of colonialism, race and culture with fantasy is unparalleled and what I want to see more of in the genre.

To Shape a Dragon's breath is a beautifully written YA fantasy that focuses on indigenous voices, race, along with finding and keeping yourself in a world where your culture is seen as backwards and needing civilisation. It's simply told, with a writing style that sometimes felt too simplistic but also ended up being strangely compelling. But it excels with strong characterisations and a plot made out of the day to day conflicts Anequs finds herself facing throughout her time at the school. It's most often a small stakes narrative, yet it's compelling and had me invested from the opening chapters.

I really liked how this novel came together, the world-building growing as Anequs becomes more familiar with the Anglish culture and people surrounding her at the school yet never denying her indigenous roots. The reader learns along with Anequs and so it feels intrinsic to the story rather than dropping random plates of information on you without context. I liked how the importance of the indigenous cultures was pushed, although the message was a little heavy handed at points which is perhaps just a mark of the genre and age this is aimed at. Anequs' refusal to go gently into Anglish culture and her standing firm on her own beliefs and traditions was welcome though, highlighting just how grave an injustice our own history is.

I liked the characterisations as well. Anequs isn't a perfect character; she makes mistakes, she has to grow and learn and develop. And as she grows, so do the group of misfits she surrounds herself with. There are things she learns quickly and other aspects that she struggles to get her head around. Her place in the society is tenuous and uncomfortable and she has to come to terms with how to balance new customs with her own and not lose an important part of herself. It's a strong message and well told through many 'slice of life' dilemmas rather than life and death heroism.

All in all, this is a strong debut novel and one I thoroughly enjoyed. I'll be interested in a sequel and anything else the author publishes for that matter.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my free review copy of this title.

To Shape a Dragon's Breath is the first book in a series. I would classify this book as historical fantasy. It draws on legitimate historical aspects and sentiments and creates a world with lands once inhabited by indigenous peoples but whose customs and cultures have been lost to colonization. This book reflects racism and classism in its nuanced world building. The detail the author takes to create the world is marvelous. However, sometimes I felt like I was reading a George R. R. Martin book where there are the long winded side tangents that distract me to the point that I've almost forgotten what the main story line was when we finically return to it. I really like the indigenous viewpoint, and the way the emotions and feelings are communicated. It didn't feel forced or like it was some sort of diversity publication.

With that said, I could only bring myself to rate it three stars. The detached feeling of the characters is what kept me from rating it higher. I didn't connect with the characters as much as I felt I could. While Anequs is obviously the main character, I felt like I wasn't vested in her much more than I was the other characters.