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The Dragon King's Bride

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**Revision in progress— tentative release date: 2026**
(This version will be unpublished once the revision is complete)

I was prepared for assassins, cunning girls, and magic competitions. But I never considered the King would claim my heart.

The summons from the Dragon King was clear; any woman of age who has never been bedded or wedded must participate in the selection games for Queen consort.

The nobility are cutthroat and won't let anything stand in their way. Serf girls like me are easy pickings for assassins and not considered true competition for the throne.

But when the king's eyes flicked over me, I nearly gasped at what I saw. His bright blue eyes bore into my soul.

Igniting an unquenchable heat.

I thought he'd laugh at my weakness like others. But his touch made me shudder in pleasure instead.

This is all a game to him, and I want to go back to my quiet and peaceful life. So, I insult him, and instead of sending me home, he kept me.

Like a fool, I want him to touch me again.

But I have enough trouble staying alive and keeping my half-fae heritage a secret. Especially since the fae were the cause of the late king's death.

I'm sure the King would kill me if he ever found out.

Am I destined for death? Or will I become his fated Queen?

165 pages, ebook

Published February 20, 2023

55 people are currently reading
234 people want to read

About the author

Danielle Lockhart

5 books68 followers
Full-time aircraft mechanic by day, fantasy romance author by moonlight—because even engines need a little magic. As an Asian American raised on fairy tales, Disney classics, anime, Tolkien, and KDrama-level yearning, I write stories that hopefully tingle the senses and tug the heartstrings. My tales are for grownups who still believe in epic love with just a hint of spice.

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5 stars
60 (36%)
4 stars
44 (26%)
3 stars
39 (23%)
2 stars
18 (10%)
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4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for astarion's bhaal babe (wingspan matters).
901 reviews5,000 followers
April 10, 2023
I received this little novelette from the author and while it was nothing to write home about, it was quick and enjoyable, especially if you're looking for something simple and very romance-oriented.
I could totally see this getting better with 100 additional pages and some work on the world-building.

(Possible full review to come)


ACTUAL RATINGS 2,5/5
Profile Image for Sara.
691 reviews20 followers
November 24, 2024
I knew it was a short story but It lost me at some details and it didn't flow in the story imo.
Will read more from this author.
89 reviews
March 23, 2025
Lectura rápida pero sorprendentemente adictiva. No querrás parar. El final un poco abrupto pero la historia entera es entretenida. La autora es bien detallista a la hora de expresar los sentimientos de la protagonista.
Profile Image for Rachel’s Coffee & Rain Reads.
222 reviews3 followers
December 12, 2025
Ok I know she’s revising this so maybe I should have waited to read it but it’s short and been on my tbr so alas I gave in.

This was a bit of a mess. The concept was interesting and I was intrigued enough to finish it (and actually care about what happened) but the writing was very telling-not-showing, to the point my mind was wandering to other things and I’d realize I didn’t know what I just read. It bordered on clinical, with short sentences about what the characters were doing.

The FMC, Ava was fine. Not particularly special or memorable but not unlikable. Half-fae half-dragon shifter, she’s hid her fae heritage her whole life due to the dragons being at war with them. When she’s summoned to the bride games for the hand of king Kaiser she tries to get herself sent home so she won’t be found out. The insta-love between Ava and Kaiser didn’t feel genuine. I love a good immediate chemistry but this was over the top.

This book couldn’t decide what it wanted to be. The bride games and the literal murders of contestants had the potential to be dark, harrowing, tense. But it was glossed over like it didn’t mean anything. Even Kaiser was more upset his assassins were family members of murdered contestants and not fae because he wanted “lop some heads off”. Instead of… I don’t know… being appalled that innocent citizens are being murdered for a competition to become your wife?! The writing wanted to be dark and violent but it never made it there. It just felt callous and dismissive of the should-be tense moments.

Kaiser was a miss for me. He cared more about getting laid by Ava than anything else. He’s callous about the competition and life loss. He hates fae blindly, which is why Ava hid her heritage, but when he finds out and throws her in the dungeon he’s affronted she didn’t tell him. 🥴 also she’s beaten up by the guards, and when Kaiser sees she’s been mistreated and can’t heal, his thought is he needs to get out of the there so he doesn’t have to see her wounded. Like… what? What a knight in shining armor he is. And when he “saves” her from execution by marriage, he’s cheesy, and then instead of letting her bathe and, I don’t know, a healer… he convinced her to have sex instead. And then.. end book.

I guess I’d be interested in the revisions made but I won’t be continuing the series. The writing was not for me and I’m irritated by the story/MMC. 2 ⭐️.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kreela.
658 reviews23 followers
March 20, 2023
• The Bachelor [Queen Competition]
• Enemies-to-lovers lite
• She got skills
• Steamy 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (2 explicit scenes)
• Spoiler alert: Peasant who’s secretly a princess?
• Groveling
• Only One Bed
• Dual POV

This novelette fantasy romance is one of my favorite tropes: an underdog competing agaist rich nobles for the chance to better her life and win the bachelor. The novelette focuses between Ava, the peasant who should and will be eliminated by the elites, and Kaiser, the king who expects her to fail, wants her, and wants her to fail.

To no reader’s surprise, she is so good at anticipating sabotage that she succeeds over and over again. Kaiser is so attracted to her he cannot stay away, and he even helps. It doesn’t take long for Kaiser to decide that she is the one. But he doesn’t know she is fae, and a fae killed his father.

The premise is interesting. Kaiser as an MC is a fairly flat figure, with just enough character to support the plot. I think this makes a quick beach read and will scratch that sweet enemies-to-lovers itch you might have.

Honestly, I love books with the competition theme, but usually don’t finish them. There is always something that dissatisfies me. I am not fond of dual POV, first. And this story is a dual POV. However, I also think this is a new author with promise. While the plot is possibly predictable, I saw an element of an adult Disney fairy tale, and we all love those 🥰.

I created a new rating system that will help me, and technically this story ranges between 3 and 4 on my scale:
3⭐️: Meh. Decent writing style, but seems like a copycat plot or has characters who don't thrill me. Unoriginal. Might have numerous syntax errors. If I want to read that trope, it fills my time satisfactorily. Would not reread, though. (Note: this story doesn't have those syntax errors, this is just my guideline.)
4⭐️: I liked it. I found enjoyable characters, original writing, good plot.

If you love dual POV, you may like this a lot. It is a nice beach read.
Profile Image for Tam V.
53 reviews
January 16, 2024
I'm giving this book a 3 star rating as it had the potential to be much more.
It kind of reminds me of the selection, but not really.
A lower-class girl entering a competition to win the king's hand in marriage. He ends up falling for her. The only difference is that she has been lying to him about what she really is (Or more, half of what she really is) and she was sent to the dungeons and sentenced to death for her heritage.
Long story short, they figured it out and got married.
There were a few weird things in there (like after she's been let out of the dungeon, they got all frisky with each other. She was in the dungeon for a few days in the same clothes...) I would have liked for her to take a bath and be clean... Other than that, there was so much potential missed. Like how the girls got along with each other and his interactions with them. Her meeting her real family and so on... That would have been amazing!
But it wasn't a bad story, so don't get me wrong. My rating would be much higher if I had more. But that's just me.
As for a quick read, this is a great one. (With some amount of steam, if you were wondering)
I would definitely give this author another try to see what other stories she has imagined.
My first experience with her was, "I need more!" So that's a good thing!
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,412 reviews62 followers
January 4, 2025
I truly wish this was longer
Did I enjoy it - ABSOLUTELY

Solid, easy-to-follow storyline (could have been longer but I'll get to that) with great characters that were easy to love or loathe
I would have liked it if some of the characters had had more history or backstory. More!
The story idea was solid five stars
I think for this to be a novella, it just sold the characters and what they faced together short. If that makes sense
There was so much here that could have been expanded on and I truly hope the next in the series fills in some of the blanks
Fae magic perhaps? How her mom got where she got (again this will make sense when you read the tale)? How his dad ended up dethroned?
I would like to have spent more time with our antagonists. I understood what was driving them but we didn't really get a chance to know them. It's a me thing
I would like to have been present when the two countries (you'll see what I mean) discussed the actions that would bring on the HEA
Would have liked more of our heroine's background and family

Despite my desire for more I still highly recommend this read
I devoured it quite literally in one sitting
Yes, I might be a tad greedy here but I liked the characters and I was invested in their story
1 review
March 29, 2023
Normally not the type of story I’d read but this book kept me engaged with the brisk pace at which the story unfolds and the style of writing kept me engaged enough to see it through. Really liked that there wasn’t any fluff or filler passages that are used to pad out the word count, it sets out to tell a story about an unlikely pairing and gets there in a satisfying amount of time. The world building was pretty fun to learn about and didn’t feel like an exposition dump when brought up. In addition, the dual POVs served to further flesh out the characters and their motivations, which I enjoyed. Also enjoyed the fantasy setting felt like the author didn’t hit us with all the tired stereotypes of fantasy. Again, while on the shorter side, I think the length worked to its advantage because most other fantasy books would get bogged down in trying to lay the groundwork of the world, instead there’s teases and hints of a wider world and a deeper lore, and of the turmoil that that world is in, which adds flavor to the story.

If you enjoy fantasy this book is great, I think the author has great potential for more.
Profile Image for Kourtney.
Author 3 books242 followers
April 7, 2023
The cover caught my eye. The back cover blurb made me move this to the top of my TBR pile. The first page hooked me. The main character had backbone and was a survivor. I couldn’t wait to see how she tackled this forced bachelor style selection of the king’s Queen consort. Best of all she just wanted to get dismissed and go back to her life as a serf. I couldn’t help rooting for her.

The writing is good. It’s hooking and immediately pulls you in. I flew through the first few chapters and most of the book actually. The king is a hero you can like. Not perfect but he tries. The characters’ motives feel natural and help you empathize with them.

The chemistry between the main characters is awesome. Couple that with her secret and it’s a tantalizing push pull.

The world building is cool. Dragon shifters vs fae adds to the tension.

The author delivers a really well plotted story. You know when you’re reading and you just know this is gonna be an awesome adventure? Totally had that feeling from this book. It is an excellent first novel. I’m excited to read more by this author.
859 reviews4 followers
November 23, 2023
Ava, a serf is requested by a kings decree to present herself and compete for Kiser, the King's hand.
However, Ava has her own buried secret and Kiser is still mourning his Father.

As they move along the competition, Kiser and Ava start to be attracted to each other. The only thing that bars them from being together, is the antiquated notion that Nobles and Peasants do not mix.

The author is brilliant in creating the plot that encompasses the jealousy between suiters, the extreme measures taken to prevent the Bloodline from being soiled, the love between two beings of different social classes, the unintentional betrayal and, the way to prevent an, escalation of violence with the ultimate goal of achieving peace.

What can I say, the book has it all. I recommend it and rate it 5 Stars even if the end is kind of abrupt.
Profile Image for Emma.
80 reviews
March 20, 2023
A great new twist on a star crossed lovers type romance. Ava is a dragon serf, but her wings are under developed and she hides a secret about her heritage that could get her killed if found out.

Kaiser is king, but must marry to be able to fully claim his place and to be able to make the changes he wants.

They are thrown together in a bride trial that is dangerous and rigged for Ava to fail. The two are drawn to each other, and when Avas secret is discovered they are nearly torn apart. But Kaiser is resourceful and this ends with a beautiful HEA.

I really enjoyed this book. The twists and turns kept me guessing and I couldn't put it down. Highly recommend getting a copy as soon as you can.

I received an ARC copy for an honest review.
Profile Image for Korkoi.
7,113 reviews31 followers
May 22, 2024
Her Life Changing Adventure -
Even though Eva was intensely attracted to Kaiser, she was keeping a secret that could be detrimental to her life. Whilst Eva’s feelings for Kaiser kept growing each day the more time they spent together, she was trying to escape before her secret was discovered, but her plans were always thwarted. Unfortunately, she found herself in dire straits before she could leave, but Kaiser was able to resolve the issue before any harm could befall her, so they could get a chance at a happily ever after. The storyline kept me turning the pages, and the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. Grab a copy and you will enjoy reading it.

I received a copy of this book free and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
376 reviews8 followers
April 16, 2023
I would have liked it to be longer. I know it was a novella so relationships have to happen quickly. However, due to the competition in this and the plot points, I felt this could have been longer and I would have loved it. I would have liked to see the almost enemies-to-lovers relationship between the two characters unfold. Add to that she needed to keep her powers and identity a secret. The resolution to the climax was so quick, it felt like almost no climax happened at all (pretty funny for a smutty read). All in all, it was alright for a short read, but I wanted more. The spice was nice but felt more youthful (think more mature high school to early college minded.)
2,386 reviews12 followers
May 28, 2023
I got a copy of this shifter romance story by the author. I found the story engaging and I enjoyed reading it. The characters Ava a dragon servant whose wings are deformed, and Kaiser the King who must be marry and enters the bride trial to claim his throne were likable and arresting. The storyline is about Ava who comes to the castle to work only to get entered in a bride trial with Kaiser. Ava figures she'll lose and can return being a serf. Their trial with the dangers they face and their relationship that blooms is explored within this enjoyable copy. For a new writer I found this a good read and a well written story. I volunteer to read and review this copy.
2,910 reviews17 followers
July 21, 2024
Ava, like many young women her age who have never been with a man is summoned to compete in the selection for becoming the Queen Consort. She is a serf and one of the few competitors her of "class," she is a serf, to even arrive at the castle. Ava is prepared for the attempts on her life, and magic competitions, but what she isn't prepared for is the way she feels when she meets the King's eyes. This is a short quick read with some action, magic, dragon shifters, and a happily ever after. Fascinating and well written characters kept me engaged in the story, so I'll recommend it to other readers.
Profile Image for cdbest.
134 reviews3 followers
May 12, 2023
* Cute political, the winner of the games gets to marry the dragon prince story. The games are tough and only the dragon with the strongest magic can win. The tasks needing to be completed are interesting. The FMC is half fae so doesn’t entirely qualify, but with her half fae heritage , her magic is strong. The other contestants are of noble birth, but the FMC was raised in humble circumstances so is looked down on. The resolution and ending are a creative twist after her heritage is brought to light.
Profile Image for Alejandra Guerrero.
1,722 reviews5 followers
December 28, 2023
3.5 stars
The story was interesting, though I feel like it needed more time to fully develop. Some things felt rushed and brushed over, and the way things were resolved at the end wasn't very satisfying.
Profile Image for Kez Marie.
1,250 reviews77 followers
December 10, 2024
This was a sweet dragon shifter Romantasy. I enjoyed Ava and Kaiser's chemistry, and the way she spoke her mind. The bride trial tournament had a hunger games feel, where contestants try to remove other competitors to progress themselves, and I liked seeing Ava abilities comes out, inckuding her nature magic and fire breathing. There was some good tension, action, drama, and a sprinkle of spice, but the ending was a little rushed to tie everything together. I would have loved to have read more of this duo and seen a little more forgiveness and redemption.
466 reviews
February 4, 2025
. Great short story. Full of action and intrigue. He’s a dragon king. She’s half dragon and half fae, enemies.

She’s responding to a summons where all the maidens have to present to the castle for the contest to find the next queen. But the nobles will kill off the lower classes to increase their chances of winning.

Ava’s smart and doesn’t fall for their tricks. She catches the king’s eye and he protects her to a point not realising that she’s half fae.

When he finds out he sentences her to death but then finds out a way they can be together.
Profile Image for Amanda✨️.
193 reviews
June 3, 2025
The Dragon King’s Bride has all the fantasy staples assassins, magic competitions, and a heroine keeping some pretty big secrets. The Dragon King’s intense gaze keeps things interesting.

There’s plenty of court drama that keeps you guessing and a slow-burn romance that feels natural without rushing. The worldbuilding could have been a bit more detailed at times, but the story moves quickly enough that I didn’t mind.

If you’re looking for a fantasy with tension, a strong heroine, and some witty moments, this one’s worth checking out.
Profile Image for Danee.
4,921 reviews
April 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this story with great characters and a touch of fairytale. Just thought it was a pity that it was a bit short, the story of Kaiser and Ava could have been a bit longer, but it was still a pleasure to read. Ava is a dragon serf hiding a secret and Kaiser is the king but if he wants to change things he must get married to secure his place. A real page turner and highly recommended.

I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
Profile Image for Anne.
201 reviews6 followers
October 5, 2023
Actual rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice: 🌶

Read as a palette cleanser between heavier books, and it did indeed do as intended.
I really like the plot in this book. As a novelette, it was OK, but it has the potential to be great as a full novel, possibly even a duology. With additional world building and gradual relationship growth between the MCs, I would devour this book.

On a second note, certain parts of female anatomy should never be referred to as a button 🥴
Profile Image for Sanyah J.
53 reviews1 follower
December 25, 2023
It was okay in the beginning and then when the main conflict came around, I was angry at how the. Couple resolved the issue, but it was a short book so I guess that is why the length is the way that it is. Smut was okay, vanilla, about 🌶🌶 or 🌶. The concept of the queen consort contest was pretty good and gave a nice plot line. Kaiser was an okay mmc, he constantly felt the fmc need saving and turned pretty easily one her.
Profile Image for Aspen G.
1,711 reviews5 followers
April 21, 2023
This short story is engaging and full of action. I love the strong female “underdog” character. I also enjoyed the dragon-shifter falls in love with the “enemy” theme. The ending felt rushed; I would have liked to see more fully developed characters and world building, though I understand that’s not always easy with novellas. Overall well-written; I would definitely read a follow up story!
93 reviews
June 30, 2023
Fast-paced novelette, 1st in the series! The world build is captivating from start to finish I was part of the world. I felt like as a reader I uncovering different mysteries that kept expanding. The fast pacing of the book was perfect. I anticipate that the series will introduce more of the Fae world.
Profile Image for Renée Parker.
44 reviews
July 3, 2023
This is what reading is about y'all!! From the beginning, the very beginning I couldn't put it down. I finished it at 4:42 a.m., no lie. It's that great 👍. I don't give storylines away but I will let you in on a secret, Ava and Kaiser are an amazing combination of lead characters.
Danielle weaves an amazing tale with a talent to entertain from beginning to end that won't disappoint.
Profile Image for Claudia.
487 reviews4 followers
December 14, 2023
What a fun, easy read!
The plot is interesting and immediately pulls you in.
Kaiser is avery likable hero. Ava and her strugles/disadvantages is very likable.
The chemistry between the main characters is very good.
I love shifters, and this book did not disappoint.

I actually wanted this to be longer, can easily see myself reading more books from this author.
350 reviews2 followers
January 28, 2024
Just a commoner?

This story begins with Ava journeying from the countryside to the city, but it is no ordinary trip! The plot keeps us on our toes wondering: the characters develop and are easy to see in your minds eye. The whole book feels alive with wonder and emotion. You can definitely reread this book, probably several times over. Be persuaded!
Profile Image for Lane.
1,351 reviews
January 29, 2024
I liked the main character, Ava, and I thought she met her match with the King Kaiser. The other girls in the competition were brutal. The story was predictable, but I was happy with the ending. There were a couple of things that happened that made me scratch my head, but otherwise the story held my attention and was a quick read. There are adult scenes and violence in the story. 2.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

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