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The Dragon of 23rd Street #1
Dragon Chained
Previously published under Kenley’s pen name, Haley Ryan, Dragon Chained is the first book of an urban fantasy trilogy featuring snarky dragons, dangerous fae, and sweet, slow-burn romance… An action-packed read that’s perfect for fans of K. M. Shea, Shari L. Tapscott, or Annette Marie!
A dragon, a fae, and a pixie walk into a bookstore…
Sounds like a joke, right? For me, it’s just an ordinary day on the job. At least, it has been ever since my aunt disappeared and left me with her store, her cat, and a whole lot of unanswered questions.
My whole life, I’ve been told to stay hidden. Pretend I’m human. Sell books, drink tea, and never betray the truth of what I am.
But it turns out my aunt had secrets, and a lot of those secrets seem to involve me ending up dead. To survive, I’m going to have to reckon with my past, even if it means placing my trust in a total stranger.
Draven is a half-fae assassin who’s as gorgeous as he is irritating, and his motives are less than clear. He might be willing to help me—for a price—but is it a price I’m willing to pay?
And if I accept his help, can I trust an assassin to keep the biggest secret of them all?
A dragon, a fae, and a pixie walk into a bookstore…
Sounds like a joke, right? For me, it’s just an ordinary day on the job. At least, it has been ever since my aunt disappeared and left me with her store, her cat, and a whole lot of unanswered questions.
My whole life, I’ve been told to stay hidden. Pretend I’m human. Sell books, drink tea, and never betray the truth of what I am.
But it turns out my aunt had secrets, and a lot of those secrets seem to involve me ending up dead. To survive, I’m going to have to reckon with my past, even if it means placing my trust in a total stranger.
Draven is a half-fae assassin who’s as gorgeous as he is irritating, and his motives are less than clear. He might be willing to help me—for a price—but is it a price I’m willing to pay?
And if I accept his help, can I trust an assassin to keep the biggest secret of them all?
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2023
1022 people are currently reading
1121 people want to read
About the author
Kenley Davidson
35 books938 followersKenley Davidson is a romantic fantasy author and unrepentant caffeine addict who believes in the power of storytelling and loves nothing more than a good book hangover. Her books include romantasy, urban fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, and sci fi, but no matter the genre, she writes stories of hope and redemption with characters you can root for, heart-pounding romance without the spice, and happy endings that might just make you cry.
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
April 24, 2024
The problem I’ve found with this new and popular trend of telling readers in the synopsis that “this book is perfect for fans of….” Is that the reader then can’t help but compare this book with those authors. Now that can be a good thing but very often, it is not. This story is the perfect example. It is like books from authors like K.M. Shea (one of my personal favs, so I’ll use her as an example) in that it is a light, fun UF. It is NOT like books from K.M Shea in that it’s not nearly as tightly written nor comes even close to the emotional depth Ms. Shea imbues in her characters and situations. In these instances, the story being touted ends up setting such high expectations that unless it blows the competition out of the ballpark, it ends up looking more like a cheap knock-off, and that is sad because it could have been judged by its own merits otherwise.
Another challenge is that the Kira, the FMC, is 19 years old. That’s a hard one because the book is then considered an “adult” read. Yet, Her actions, reactions and thoughts are much younger. So adult readers are stuck feeling like they were roped into a YA that really isn’t! ANYHOO…. Kira acts like a 16 year old, and the storyline follows that same path.
Still, the story wasn’t bad, and I am curious to see what happens next, so I may pick up the second book in the series at some point.
Another challenge is that the Kira, the FMC, is 19 years old. That’s a hard one because the book is then considered an “adult” read. Yet, Her actions, reactions and thoughts are much younger. So adult readers are stuck feeling like they were roped into a YA that really isn’t! ANYHOO…. Kira acts like a 16 year old, and the storyline follows that same path.
Still, the story wasn’t bad, and I am curious to see what happens next, so I may pick up the second book in the series at some point.
June 6, 2023
I can't believe I waited so long to pick up this series! I'd heard about it when it was originally released under a pen name, but I didn't pick it up. Once it was re-released under Kenley Davidson's main publishing name and I suddenly realized that, wait, this series is by one of my favorite authors, it automatically shot up my TBR.
And, wow, this series did not disappoint. I've been on a major urban fantasy kick lately, and this definitely fit the bill. Funny. Gripping. Swoony but not spicy with a drool-worthy main guy (seriously, Draven is dreamy and awesome!).
I loved how relatable Kira is! She's so fun and spunky and takes the world by storm as she breaks out of her Rapunzel-like safety cocoon.
Oh, and for fans of K.M. Shea's urban fantasies, you'll find one of Aphrodite's siblings in this book! Chicken the cat was great (along with Waffles the dog!).
And, wow, this series did not disappoint. I've been on a major urban fantasy kick lately, and this definitely fit the bill. Funny. Gripping. Swoony but not spicy with a drool-worthy main guy (seriously, Draven is dreamy and awesome!).
I loved how relatable Kira is! She's so fun and spunky and takes the world by storm as she breaks out of her Rapunzel-like safety cocoon.
Oh, and for fans of K.M. Shea's urban fantasies, you'll find one of Aphrodite's siblings in this book! Chicken the cat was great (along with Waffles the dog!).
April 23, 2025
****Actual Rating 4.5****
August 2023 Update: I read this once before when it was published under the author’s pen name, so I decided to put my original review here as well, but I really enjoyed rereading this book and I’m so excited to be able to continue with the series and FINALLY get some answers!
****
Original Review: This was such fun! I’m really getting into the paranormal/urban fantasy genre if only for the snarky, sarcastic banter. 😂 I kid, I kid, but it’s a good motivator to keep trying them and this book has snark and banter in spades.
Kira was such a refreshing protagonist in that when her world is flipped upside down she’s not happy about it and is reasonably scared and wants her normal, sheltered life to return, and I found that so relatable as I probably would not be any happier with her situation than she is! She also realizes she needs help and is okay with a guy protecting her, and I just love how honest she is about all this stuff that a lot of stories just brush aside to make the main girl “tough” and “strong,” and I really appreciated this more honest take on things. And Kira’s growth is just amazing and I can’t wait to see where she goes next.
Draven is also a flipped on his head male hero in the fact that he’s mysterious and brooding without being annoying! (Shocker, I know!) He actually had depth and emotion outside his broodiness that showed and really endeared me to him and the struggles he goes through and faces. I liked (or disliked, lol) the other characters too, but Kira and Draven definitely stand out from the rest of the three demential, quirky cast.
The book does have a bit of a slow start for like the first two or three chapters, but I liked it enough to push on and am glad I did because what. A. Ride! I’m very much looking forward to continuing this series as I really want to know what the heck is going on???? The fantasy, supernatural elements were woven really well into the modern setting and are very believable.
All in all I loved this and will be for sure continuing the series!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown)
Language: crap; gosh; badass; heck; damn; pissed; hell (as a swear word and a place); mongrel; arse; bastard; what the heck; darn
Violence: shadow beasts attack characters; injuries and blood (not detailed); light explodes/kills a shadow creature; a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown); a magical bar fight; fighting with magic and weapons (not detailed); a building collapses with people inside
Sexual: a girl notices a guy’s bare chest; guys and girls are called hot; shapeshifters end up naked when they shift (not shown)
Drug/Alcohol: magical drinks are served at a club
Other: shapeshifters, fae, and other magical creatures; magic; a club for magical creatures; a character is illegitimate and looked down upon/hated for it; a dragon was abused and chained up in the dark; a character is locked up; a character is an assassin
August 2023 Update: I read this once before when it was published under the author’s pen name, so I decided to put my original review here as well, but I really enjoyed rereading this book and I’m so excited to be able to continue with the series and FINALLY get some answers!
****
Original Review: This was such fun! I’m really getting into the paranormal/urban fantasy genre if only for the snarky, sarcastic banter. 😂 I kid, I kid, but it’s a good motivator to keep trying them and this book has snark and banter in spades.
Kira was such a refreshing protagonist in that when her world is flipped upside down she’s not happy about it and is reasonably scared and wants her normal, sheltered life to return, and I found that so relatable as I probably would not be any happier with her situation than she is! She also realizes she needs help and is okay with a guy protecting her, and I just love how honest she is about all this stuff that a lot of stories just brush aside to make the main girl “tough” and “strong,” and I really appreciated this more honest take on things. And Kira’s growth is just amazing and I can’t wait to see where she goes next.
Draven is also a flipped on his head male hero in the fact that he’s mysterious and brooding without being annoying! (Shocker, I know!) He actually had depth and emotion outside his broodiness that showed and really endeared me to him and the struggles he goes through and faces. I liked (or disliked, lol) the other characters too, but Kira and Draven definitely stand out from the rest of the three demential, quirky cast.
The book does have a bit of a slow start for like the first two or three chapters, but I liked it enough to push on and am glad I did because what. A. Ride! I’m very much looking forward to continuing this series as I really want to know what the heck is going on???? The fantasy, supernatural elements were woven really well into the modern setting and are very believable.
All in all I loved this and will be for sure continuing the series!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown)
Language: crap; gosh; badass; heck; damn; pissed; hell (as a swear word and a place); mongrel; arse; bastard; what the heck; darn
Violence: shadow beasts attack characters; injuries and blood (not detailed); light explodes/kills a shadow creature; a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown); a magical bar fight; fighting with magic and weapons (not detailed); a building collapses with people inside
Sexual: a girl notices a guy’s bare chest; guys and girls are called hot; shapeshifters end up naked when they shift (not shown)
Drug/Alcohol: magical drinks are served at a club
Other: shapeshifters, fae, and other magical creatures; magic; a club for magical creatures; a character is illegitimate and looked down upon/hated for it; a dragon was abused and chained up in the dark; a character is locked up; a character is an assassin
September 28, 2023
This book was reading very familiar so I looked up the previously published author's name and sure enough I've read this before. This time I only read to about 27% and will admit to enjoying it. However, after reading my previous review and a couple of other reviews, and not seeing any mention of the book being rewritten in any way, I have to bow out and give this the 2 star rating I had given it before. I personally can't stand TSTL actions or characters and am unwilling to subject myself to it again.
Original review:
I'm at 83% and I just can't anymore. One of my biggest pet peeves when reading a book is when the author creates TSTL moments to propel the plot forward. After the first TSTL moment brought to us by the MFC, I tried to breath calmly and tell myself that she just needed time for growth, however after many more moments like this ... I just can't do it anymore. I'm out!
** Ok. .. because I can't just dnf a book, I skimmed the last 20% and I'll let my review and rating stand.
Original review:
I'm at 83% and I just can't anymore. One of my biggest pet peeves when reading a book is when the author creates TSTL moments to propel the plot forward. After the first TSTL moment brought to us by the MFC, I tried to breath calmly and tell myself that she just needed time for growth, however after many more moments like this ... I just can't do it anymore. I'm out!
** Ok. .. because I can't just dnf a book, I skimmed the last 20% and I'll let my review and rating stand.
September 16, 2023
The FMC is TSTL and very immature. There is a lot of info dumping right at the beginning of this book that really drags things down and it never really picks up. I've decided it's time to move on to something else.
May 4, 2025
Poor deluded Kira!! This was a pretty good debut to the series. Kira just wants to sell books and find out where her aunt is, however, it seems the magical world wind leave her alone. Kira believes herself to be a broken dragon saved by her aunt, Draven isn’t so sure. Throughout the book all the clues are there that something’s off about the aunt’s story but I think 19 years of brain washing has left Kira unable to see the clues. Now on a hunt for her aunt, dealing with her burgeoning dragon powers, danger in the seale courts and a hellhound named waffles:)
June 5, 2025
Um… WOW!
Full transparency, I read The Shifter of Sheridan Avenue series first, which kind spoiled some of the big reveals/secrets. Didn’t bother me because I live for spoilers, haha. 🤣
Kira and Draven are adorable and I love them. Also I loved getting more of the background story for the world Sheridan Avenue set up. Particularly Faris. Big fan of his. 🤭
I read this via audiobook and it was superb!
Content: mild language
Full transparency, I read The Shifter of Sheridan Avenue series first, which kind spoiled some of the big reveals/secrets. Didn’t bother me because I live for spoilers, haha. 🤣
Kira and Draven are adorable and I love them. Also I loved getting more of the background story for the world Sheridan Avenue set up. Particularly Faris. Big fan of his. 🤭
I read this via audiobook and it was superb!
Content: mild language
April 19, 2024
DNF. I got to 45% before I quit, for several reasons.
First of all, I dislike slow-burn romances that drag on over multiple books. They're just really angsty, and I don't like that.
Second of all, I don't really see anything interesting happening.
Third of all, most of the book so far has been the FMC whining about how her aunt has refused to answer any of her questions and therefore she's now in this mess, and also about how she's now an adult and should not be treated like a baby, blah blah blah.
CW/TW: I'm not quite sure, since I didn't finish the book, but I think this is a book without any explicit scenes.
First of all, I dislike slow-burn romances that drag on over multiple books. They're just really angsty, and I don't like that.
Second of all, I don't really see anything interesting happening.
Third of all, most of the book so far has been the FMC whining about how her aunt has refused to answer any of her questions and therefore she's now in this mess, and also about how she's now an adult and should not be treated like a baby, blah blah blah.
CW/TW: I'm not quite sure, since I didn't finish the book, but I think this is a book without any explicit scenes.
May 19, 2023
This story took me on quite an adventure and I loved every minute! Things start moving fairly quickly from the beginning, and I was soon immersed in this paranormal world with shapeshifters, elementals, fae, etc. The plot kept my attention, and even after finishing this first book I still have so many questions and thoughts about what will happen next. The elements of danger, suspense, magic, friendship, and romance have combined to make for a really fun story.
Kira is the absolute best protagonist! I found myself highlighting so many of her thoughts and conversations —she is just the perfect blend of snark/sarcasm and wit. She is fiercely loyal, innocent and a bit naive, stronger than anyone believes, and brave. Don’t even get me started on a certain handsome half-fae assassin… can you say swoony?!
This is the first in a series that features a slow burn romance, and I can’t wait to dive into the next book and see more of characters that I’m quickly coming to love!
Kira is the absolute best protagonist! I found myself highlighting so many of her thoughts and conversations —she is just the perfect blend of snark/sarcasm and wit. She is fiercely loyal, innocent and a bit naive, stronger than anyone believes, and brave. Don’t even get me started on a certain handsome half-fae assassin… can you say swoony?!
This is the first in a series that features a slow burn romance, and I can’t wait to dive into the next book and see more of characters that I’m quickly coming to love!
March 6, 2024
I only made it through book 2 of the series. It was a bit too steamy for my taste, and a little too… corny? I started it hoping for a KM Shea Magiford feel, which it has, though a slightly less funny and engaging version. Book 1 was pretty good, but book 2 lost me with excessive ogling over the male romantic interest (like near nonstop), and the story, relationships, and interactions seemed to get progressively more amateur as it went. It’s time for me to move on…
Content (1&2):
There are a few “light” swear words, but not many. The romance is steamy, though doesn’t cross the line into spicy (it’s the MC’s descriptive and lustful thoughts more than the actual physical contact). There’s some violence, but it’s not excessive. There’s no mention of faith or God.
Content (1&2):
There are a few “light” swear words, but not many. The romance is steamy, though doesn’t cross the line into spicy (it’s the MC’s descriptive and lustful thoughts more than the actual physical contact). There’s some violence, but it’s not excessive. There’s no mention of faith or God.
March 10, 2024
Dragon Chained is a clean, cozy urban fantasy. Kira, the main protagonist, runs a bookstore, has a hairless cat named Chicken, a new dog named Waffles, loves to eat barbecue, and did I mention she's a dragon? I downloaded this book but didn't immediately read it. Once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. 4/5 stars!
May 11, 2024
second read
Somehow I never rated this the first time I read it. Good news! I loved it just as much the second time! Now I have to rush off and read the next one!
Somehow I never rated this the first time I read it. Good news! I loved it just as much the second time! Now I have to rush off and read the next one!
January 8, 2024
I sort of felt like I was dropped into the middle of this world and there was backstory I was missing. There was a bit of information, but not nearly enough to get a full feel of everything and I hope there's more world building in the sequel.
The story is simple enough and I thought the pace was a little slow until the last third of the book. Luckily, the last part is pretty exciting and we meet several fantasy characters. There are seeds of a romance, but not enough for me to tag it yet. We'll see what comes of book two!
The story is simple enough and I thought the pace was a little slow until the last third of the book. Luckily, the last part is pretty exciting and we meet several fantasy characters. There are seeds of a romance, but not enough for me to tag it yet. We'll see what comes of book two!
March 28, 2025
YA novel. It's an easy read. Nothing too serious. All the men are gorgeous. All the women are pretty. Female lead is an innocent snowflake with the rarest, powerful magic that she doesn't know how to use. You know those kinds of stories. Female lead both stumbles and runs head first into danger because... well, because she is so smart that she's dumb.
I have so many questions, and it becomes irritating that she doesn't ask these same questions. Alas, the weakest link and uneducated baby dragon help to save the day.
I'd say this is very slightly similar to Annette Marie Codex Series... but without the indepth world building and complex storylines.
Potential. No insta-love. Narration was great.
I have so many questions, and it becomes irritating that she doesn't ask these same questions. Alas, the weakest link and uneducated baby dragon help to save the day.
I'd say this is very slightly similar to Annette Marie Codex Series... but without the indepth world building and complex storylines.
Potential. No insta-love. Narration was great.
March 13, 2024
Finished the series, here’s my take
Overall, the series was pretty good. In the first two books, I was a bit frustrated with the FMC as she was just too gullible and naïve for too long. Then in the last one, she wised up, but had a pretty significant lapse back to naïveté, which was annoying.
I Thought there was a little bit too much buildup about her unique, unparalleled powers which didn’t really come to fruition, explored or utilized enough, which was a kinda big plot hole and was a let down. I kept waiting for the big moment that her full powers would arise, but it just didn’t fully happen.
I found myself having to push myself to keep reading it at times as I just wasn’t all that into it for some reason at certain points.
Overall, the series was pretty good. In the first two books, I was a bit frustrated with the FMC as she was just too gullible and naïve for too long. Then in the last one, she wised up, but had a pretty significant lapse back to naïveté, which was annoying.
I Thought there was a little bit too much buildup about her unique, unparalleled powers which didn’t really come to fruition, explored or utilized enough, which was a kinda big plot hole and was a let down. I kept waiting for the big moment that her full powers would arise, but it just didn’t fully happen.
I found myself having to push myself to keep reading it at times as I just wasn’t all that into it for some reason at certain points.
August 11, 2023
3.75 🌟 close to 4
Heroine isn't TSTL, and I have to give ground as she's been isolated and mushroomed by her Guardian but she really doesn't think she was betrayed at this point?
Heroine isn't TSTL, and I have to give ground as she's been isolated and mushroomed by her Guardian but she really doesn't think she was betrayed at this point?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2024
I think I want to rewrite this one. I left the original review below in a spoiler.
If I were to write down the entire outline of the first two books I read, this series would be amazing.
Describing what this series is trying to do sounds like a great story. I also think it could actually work. It's not full of flawed ideas or anything.
But the execution simply can not live up to the ideas. I know this phrase is almost as clichéed as the urban fantasy genre itself but I don't have better words to express my frustration.
For most of the examples I want to give, I would have to go into major spoilers so I don't have many examples to back up what I am trying to explain.
I listened to the Audiobook narration by Cris Dukehart which is excellent of course but there is also the factor that her voice is inexorably linked with Anette Marie's books for me which gets any book narrated by her free and undeserved bonus points.
From what I can glean from the narration alone the basic writing is fine. It's not a lower-level issue of word choice or grammar that stops this book from working.
The problem comes from the higher-level execution of the outline. The probably biggest flaw is the complete lack of relationship building.
There is a point where the MC realizes she has feelings for the love interest which just came out of nowhere. There was no romantic buildup of any kind. Not even some initial chemistry and sparks flying beyond a naive teenager experiencing the titillating feeling of attraction to the alluring male form seemingly for the first time. It was really baffling to me because I didn't realize the author was even trying to develop this at all. Usually, you can tell even if it is done badly and doesn't work. But this one came totally out of left field.
It's so bad that her reaction is so similar to her reaction towards other guys that I couldn't even tell who the love interest was supposed to be and I kind of assumed this would develop into a love 2+n-agon (love triangle, square, ...) because she felt attracted to/appreciated different hot guys here and there.
Initially, I just hoped this was a pacing issue or the nature of the introductory first book or something but it isn't. This problem stretches throughout the entire first 2 books (at least). Every relationship of the MC is like this. Out of nowhere and not developed in any way.
(Relationship spoiler)
Another example of this is her finding-friends-for-the-first-time moment. They are all like a kindergarten friendship. After you baked a sand cake together (and maybe unsuccessfully tried to degust it) with a total stranger in a sandbox, you are now best friends. The author uses the phrase "found friends" multiple times like they were already friends somehow and just needed to find each other to become friends. That's not how this works! You need to develop relationships!
(Second book spoiler)
This issue even stretches beyond relationships like the love interest or friends or . Very little is introduced or developed. It's not even an info dump in the classical sense. Or an issue of "show, don't tell". Everything is presented to you as fait accompli somehow. The book doesn't even do much "telling" much less "showing". I don't think I have read anything that was strange in this particular way before.
And this sounds like the writing is just terrible, but it's not! The dialogue is actually decent, if a bit corny at times. The MC was so sheltered and isolated that, even though she is 19, she acts more like 14. I found this somewhat annoying but it is in character and fits.
The plot twists, which were excellent btw, were either revealed in this anti-climactic way that robbed them of most of their impact, or they were drawn out so long that I stopped caring before the author was done revealing.
Honestly, this doesn't really deserve 3 stars but there is so much here that I can not bring myself to rate it the 2 stars I should.
The plot and the entire book structure overall could have easily been a 4-star book if the execution were on par with the outline! And I very rarely rate things 4 stars nowadays.
It's a good story that is told in an extremely clichéed and somewhat inept way.
I can see the intended nuance and complexity that the author attempted to execute shine through at every turn! But nothing actually works! It's so frustrating!
Original review:
If I were to write down the entire outline of the first two books I read, this series would be amazing.
Describing what this series is trying to do sounds like a great story. I also think it could actually work. It's not full of flawed ideas or anything.
But the execution simply can not live up to the ideas. I know this phrase is almost as clichéed as the urban fantasy genre itself but I don't have better words to express my frustration.
For most of the examples I want to give, I would have to go into major spoilers so I don't have many examples to back up what I am trying to explain.
I listened to the Audiobook narration by Cris Dukehart which is excellent of course but there is also the factor that her voice is inexorably linked with Anette Marie's books for me which gets any book narrated by her free and undeserved bonus points.
From what I can glean from the narration alone the basic writing is fine. It's not a lower-level issue of word choice or grammar that stops this book from working.
The problem comes from the higher-level execution of the outline. The probably biggest flaw is the complete lack of relationship building.
There is a point where the MC realizes she has feelings for the love interest which just came out of nowhere. There was no romantic buildup of any kind. Not even some initial chemistry and sparks flying beyond a naive teenager experiencing the titillating feeling of attraction to the alluring male form seemingly for the first time. It was really baffling to me because I didn't realize the author was even trying to develop this at all. Usually, you can tell even if it is done badly and doesn't work. But this one came totally out of left field.
It's so bad that her reaction is so similar to her reaction towards other guys that I couldn't even tell who the love interest was supposed to be and I kind of assumed this would develop into a love 2+n-agon (love triangle, square, ...) because she felt attracted to/appreciated different hot guys here and there.
Initially, I just hoped this was a pacing issue or the nature of the introductory first book or something but it isn't. This problem stretches throughout the entire first 2 books (at least). Every relationship of the MC is like this. Out of nowhere and not developed in any way.
(Relationship spoiler)
Another example of this is her finding-friends-for-the-first-time moment. They are all like a kindergarten friendship. After you baked a sand cake together (and maybe unsuccessfully tried to degust it) with a total stranger in a sandbox, you are now best friends. The author uses the phrase "found friends" multiple times like they were already friends somehow and just needed to find each other to become friends. That's not how this works! You need to develop relationships!
(Second book spoiler)
This issue even stretches beyond relationships like the love interest or friends or . Very little is introduced or developed. It's not even an info dump in the classical sense. Or an issue of "show, don't tell". Everything is presented to you as fait accompli somehow. The book doesn't even do much "telling" much less "showing". I don't think I have read anything that was strange in this particular way before.
And this sounds like the writing is just terrible, but it's not! The dialogue is actually decent, if a bit corny at times. The MC was so sheltered and isolated that, even though she is 19, she acts more like 14. I found this somewhat annoying but it is in character and fits.
The plot twists, which were excellent btw, were either revealed in this anti-climactic way that robbed them of most of their impact, or they were drawn out so long that I stopped caring before the author was done revealing.
Honestly, this doesn't really deserve 3 stars but there is so much here that I can not bring myself to rate it the 2 stars I should.
The plot and the entire book structure overall could have easily been a 4-star book if the execution were on par with the outline! And I very rarely rate things 4 stars nowadays.
It's a good story that is told in an extremely clichéed and somewhat inept way.
I can see the intended nuance and complexity that the author attempted to execute shine through at every turn! But nothing actually works! It's so frustrating!
Original review:
August 31, 2023
it was just okay. likely won't be continuing the series.
March 7, 2025
I absolutely love this series! You can expect dark secrets, plot twists, swoony romance, found family, and tons of interdimentional urban fantasy adventure. The MMC and FMC give us a bit of grumpy/sunshine charm, and book girls everywhere will love the idea of a dragon shifter with a beloved hoard of books. This is a charming and easy read that I enjoyed so much.
March 23, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is book 1 of 3
– this is told from Kira’s point of view
– there are multiple instances of Kira seeing a guy’s chest (as he can’t wear a top & shift properly)
– there is some fantasy violence
Review:
I’m apparently on a bit of an urban fantasy kick since I discovered that not one, but three of the authors I enjoy reading fantasy books from have their own urban fantasy series! (That’s K. M. Shea’s Magiford trilogies, Shari L. Tapscott’s Obsidian Queen, & this one for those of you looking for recommendations!)
I enjoyed the fact that Kira really didn’t know too much about the world she came from as it made it feel like I was on the same page as her throughout the story. I loved Kira’s stubbornness and how Kenley Davidson decided to portray her dragon shifter. I loved the pets Kira ends up with and the names they have. I didn’t see the actual bad guy coming (that was creating the shadows) but I probably should have guessed based on some of the information given about their family. I liked that Kira learned what she could do (powers & shifting-wise) as the story went on and still doesn’t completely know the full scope of them. I’m curious as to what is actually going on with her Aunt Morgan and what their real story is together. I’m excited to continue this trilogy to find out!
Summary:
Kira is a dragon shifter pretending to be a human for her own safety. Her life consists of running a bookstore, her aunt, a cat named Chicken, and hiding what she truly is. Though when her aunt has been gone for longer than usual and fae she’s never seen before come into her bookstore asking questions they shouldn’t be asking her, Kira’s world begins to get turned upside down. And now she has to rely on Draven, a fae assassin, to help her find her aunt and discover parts of herself that she didn’t know were hidden. With secrets emerging from every corner, will Kira choose to stay in the sheltered life she’s always lived or leave the shadows to find the truth?
– this is book 1 of 3
– this is told from Kira’s point of view
– there are multiple instances of Kira seeing a guy’s chest (as he can’t wear a top & shift properly)
– there is some fantasy violence
Review:
I’m apparently on a bit of an urban fantasy kick since I discovered that not one, but three of the authors I enjoy reading fantasy books from have their own urban fantasy series! (That’s K. M. Shea’s Magiford trilogies, Shari L. Tapscott’s Obsidian Queen, & this one for those of you looking for recommendations!)
I enjoyed the fact that Kira really didn’t know too much about the world she came from as it made it feel like I was on the same page as her throughout the story. I loved Kira’s stubbornness and how Kenley Davidson decided to portray her dragon shifter. I loved the pets Kira ends up with and the names they have. I didn’t see the actual bad guy coming (that was creating the shadows) but I probably should have guessed based on some of the information given about their family. I liked that Kira learned what she could do (powers & shifting-wise) as the story went on and still doesn’t completely know the full scope of them. I’m curious as to what is actually going on with her Aunt Morgan and what their real story is together. I’m excited to continue this trilogy to find out!
Summary:
Kira is a dragon shifter pretending to be a human for her own safety. Her life consists of running a bookstore, her aunt, a cat named Chicken, and hiding what she truly is. Though when her aunt has been gone for longer than usual and fae she’s never seen before come into her bookstore asking questions they shouldn’t be asking her, Kira’s world begins to get turned upside down. And now she has to rely on Draven, a fae assassin, to help her find her aunt and discover parts of herself that she didn’t know were hidden. With secrets emerging from every corner, will Kira choose to stay in the sheltered life she’s always lived or leave the shadows to find the truth?
April 25, 2023
I love Kenley Davidson's fantasy books so I was really excited to see her take on the urban fantasy genre. She did not disappoint!
Read if you like:
* Clean Urban Fantasy (some fantasy violence)
* Spunky Heroines
* Single POV (told from Kira's POV)
* First Book in a Trilogy
* Great for fans of K.M. Shea's Magiford Series and Shari Tapscott's Obsidian Queen Series
Dragon Chained is the first book in an urban fantasy trilogy by Kenley Davidson. It was previously published under her pen name Haley Ryan. Perfect for fans of K.M. Shea's Magiford Series and Shari Tapscott's Obsidian Queen Series.
The story follows Kira, a very unique dragon who was whisked away from her home at a very young age in order to protect her. Kira has been kept in the dark about most things pertaining to her previous life which allows us a readers to discover the secrets of her home world (Idria) and it's inhabitants right along with her.
Dragon Chained was a fast paced fun read. I feel as if we only got to scratch the surface of the world that Kenley Davidson has created. I'm excited to find out more about the dragon enclave and to be further immersed in the world of Idria when books 2 & 3 are released!
*I received an ARC of this book from the author, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read if you like:
* Clean Urban Fantasy (some fantasy violence)
* Spunky Heroines
* Single POV (told from Kira's POV)
* First Book in a Trilogy
* Great for fans of K.M. Shea's Magiford Series and Shari Tapscott's Obsidian Queen Series
Dragon Chained is the first book in an urban fantasy trilogy by Kenley Davidson. It was previously published under her pen name Haley Ryan. Perfect for fans of K.M. Shea's Magiford Series and Shari Tapscott's Obsidian Queen Series.
The story follows Kira, a very unique dragon who was whisked away from her home at a very young age in order to protect her. Kira has been kept in the dark about most things pertaining to her previous life which allows us a readers to discover the secrets of her home world (Idria) and it's inhabitants right along with her.
Dragon Chained was a fast paced fun read. I feel as if we only got to scratch the surface of the world that Kenley Davidson has created. I'm excited to find out more about the dragon enclave and to be further immersed in the world of Idria when books 2 & 3 are released!
*I received an ARC of this book from the author, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 6, 2023
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I completely change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring down a lot. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
3.5*
Rating is for all 3 books in the trilogy, I read them back to back.
Some of the plot was obvious but I liked the characters and the world, and read all 3 books in a row. I'd like to see more books with these characters, set in this world.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
3.5*
Rating is for all 3 books in the trilogy, I read them back to back.
Some of the plot was obvious but I liked the characters and the world, and read all 3 books in a row. I'd like to see more books with these characters, set in this world.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
June 28, 2024
I started the book and suddenly I was halfway done and couldn't put it down.
It has all the makings of a fun new urban fantasy series with many of my favorite elements.
A broken dragon shifter that doesn't know her past? A bastard hybrid fae assassin; I'll just leave it at that. A quest to find her missing dragon aunt and stop the shadow beasts threatening the Fae Court; I am all in.
The FMC, Kira, is 19 years old and very sheltered. She has accepted what she has been told or not told as the case may be at face value without question. There were times when she was a little too young, whiney, and naive for me but on the whole, I like her. She really starts to come into her own by the middle of the book and becomes a much stronger version of herself. She still has some growing up to do, but she is on the right path.
The MMC, Draven, is broody and tight-lipped but has a really soft heart. He makes a bargain with Kira that weighs heavily in her favor and despite being fae does not take advantage of her. I love the idea of their pairing and hope to see their relationship grow in the coming books. As we left off, they are still just friends, and to me, it's perfect.
All in all this was a cute book that took me by surprise with how much I enjoyed it. I already have the next one bookmarked and cannot wait to start!
Happy Reading.
It has all the makings of a fun new urban fantasy series with many of my favorite elements.
A broken dragon shifter that doesn't know her past? A bastard hybrid fae assassin; I'll just leave it at that. A quest to find her missing dragon aunt and stop the shadow beasts threatening the Fae Court; I am all in.
The FMC, Kira, is 19 years old and very sheltered. She has accepted what she has been told or not told as the case may be at face value without question. There were times when she was a little too young, whiney, and naive for me but on the whole, I like her. She really starts to come into her own by the middle of the book and becomes a much stronger version of herself. She still has some growing up to do, but she is on the right path.
The MMC, Draven, is broody and tight-lipped but has a really soft heart. He makes a bargain with Kira that weighs heavily in her favor and despite being fae does not take advantage of her. I love the idea of their pairing and hope to see their relationship grow in the coming books. As we left off, they are still just friends, and to me, it's perfect.
All in all this was a cute book that took me by surprise with how much I enjoyed it. I already have the next one bookmarked and cannot wait to start!
Happy Reading.
April 12, 2025
Kira is a young dragon shifter who is unable to completely shift. Hidden by her aunt all of her life due to a threat to her life, she also has no idea about the paranormal world. She’s actually pretty naive.
When her aunt disappears and fae show up in her bookstore looking for her aunt, things start to get interesting. After one of the strangers saves her life, she makes a bargain with him to look team up and work together.
Kira realizes how little she knows about her aunt, her powers, why she was hidden. With the hope that Draven, the half fae/half griffin, assassin can help, they set out to look. Then the fun begins.
This book has a fair amount of action, some mystery, surprises, of course some suspense and humour. The sphynx cat, Chicken, is unusual to say the least.
This is a book that was on my kindle that I finally decided to read, I’m glad I did.
It’s a quick, easy read that I really enjoyed. Definitely need to get onto book 2, there are a lot of questions left unanswered although the book isn’t a cliffhanger.
When her aunt disappears and fae show up in her bookstore looking for her aunt, things start to get interesting. After one of the strangers saves her life, she makes a bargain with him to look team up and work together.
Kira realizes how little she knows about her aunt, her powers, why she was hidden. With the hope that Draven, the half fae/half griffin, assassin can help, they set out to look. Then the fun begins.
This book has a fair amount of action, some mystery, surprises, of course some suspense and humour. The sphynx cat, Chicken, is unusual to say the least.
This is a book that was on my kindle that I finally decided to read, I’m glad I did.
It’s a quick, easy read that I really enjoyed. Definitely need to get onto book 2, there are a lot of questions left unanswered although the book isn’t a cliffhanger.
August 13, 2023
Self Discovery Journey
Dragon Chained begins in a bookstore run by Kira and her Aunt Morgan. Morgan disappears for three weeks leaving Kira fearful for what has happened to her.
The story takes a while to get going as it lays foundations for future tails. The appearance of two men at the bookstore looking for Morgan sets in motion Kira’s self discovery. She believes she’s a broken dragon shifter, but turns out she’s not so broken after all.
Davidson keeps the reader curious wondering how the tale will unwind and discovering who Kira is at the same time she does. There’s a whole cast of characters that appear from the magic world. Some are open personalities and others keep to themselves.
The ending wraps up a single segment with more questions to be answered in the next book. Heading there now and I’m betting you will want to follow!
Dragon Chained begins in a bookstore run by Kira and her Aunt Morgan. Morgan disappears for three weeks leaving Kira fearful for what has happened to her.
The story takes a while to get going as it lays foundations for future tails. The appearance of two men at the bookstore looking for Morgan sets in motion Kira’s self discovery. She believes she’s a broken dragon shifter, but turns out she’s not so broken after all.
Davidson keeps the reader curious wondering how the tale will unwind and discovering who Kira is at the same time she does. There’s a whole cast of characters that appear from the magic world. Some are open personalities and others keep to themselves.
The ending wraps up a single segment with more questions to be answered in the next book. Heading there now and I’m betting you will want to follow!
March 11, 2024
I loved this book. The humor and quirkiness of Kira and her narration of the book reminds me a lot of Charlaine Harris’s Sookie Stackhouse series but with no spice. I cracked up several times. Kira comes off very naive and young, but I mean, she is. And I like that it gives her a lot of room to grow as a character in the series from her innocent and sheltered world views, to what I’m sure will be a strong, independent and well-rounded character. There is a little bit of “telling and not showing” in the beginning, but it wasn’t enough to bother me. My interest was piqued from the beginning-a 19 year old girl minding her family bookstore and 2 handsome fae walk in? Oh and she’s a dragon shifter? Chaos ensues. I’m in. If you like a fun, adventure filled book with humor, a broody morally gray love interest and female main character that’s sweet but you know she will grow into her own power, this is your series!
April 30, 2023
Not sure where to post this since there are two different versions of the book listed on GR. Copying this from the Haley Ryan version:
Best urban fantasy book I've read in quite a while. The writing was great, fun plot, good pacing. It's a clean story with spots of humour and a touch of romance; more like an ultra-slow burn start to a relationship. Kira is fairly obsessed with Draven, but I found it amusing and not cringe, especially given Kira's solitary upbringing.
While things were wrapped up decently, there's still a lot of places to go and questions left to answer. At the end of the book there's a link to download a chapter from Draven's POV, which is worth reading. Already started the second book, which starts off really cute.
Best urban fantasy book I've read in quite a while. The writing was great, fun plot, good pacing. It's a clean story with spots of humour and a touch of romance; more like an ultra-slow burn start to a relationship. Kira is fairly obsessed with Draven, but I found it amusing and not cringe, especially given Kira's solitary upbringing.
While things were wrapped up decently, there's still a lot of places to go and questions left to answer. At the end of the book there's a link to download a chapter from Draven's POV, which is worth reading. Already started the second book, which starts off really cute.
May 26, 2023
Kenley Davidson is my fave 😎
I’ve been patiently waiting for Legends of Abreia to be finished (so close!!!), so I was SO happy when she announced this series was switching from her pen name. I had no idea it existed before that and will never turn down a Kenley Davidson series!
This was a good series beginning. I feel like we were introduced to some great characters that I hope to see in the rest of the series and it set up the plot nicely. Can’t wait to get some questions answered in the next books!
Didn’t like the random swear words thrown in (but they are mild and I’m overly sensitive about that. I imagine most readers won’t care or even notice it.) I prefer dual perspective books, so I was happy to get that one chapter from Draven’s perspective from her newsletter!
I’ve been patiently waiting for Legends of Abreia to be finished (so close!!!), so I was SO happy when she announced this series was switching from her pen name. I had no idea it existed before that and will never turn down a Kenley Davidson series!
This was a good series beginning. I feel like we were introduced to some great characters that I hope to see in the rest of the series and it set up the plot nicely. Can’t wait to get some questions answered in the next books!
Didn’t like the random swear words thrown in (but they are mild and I’m overly sensitive about that. I imagine most readers won’t care or even notice it.) I prefer dual perspective books, so I was happy to get that one chapter from Draven’s perspective from her newsletter!
April 27, 2024
This reads very much like a YA book. While the main character is stated as 19, she reacts and acts more like 16. I actually went back to the first chapter to confirm her stated age. Seriously protected by an aunt for her entire life, Kira knows basically nothing about her abilities or the Indirian world and its people. She has to grow up fast - and accomplishes that some of the time. There are definitely more than a few - "yep, this chick is really naive" moments. Also, a couple of easy to figure out bad-guys and obvious situations that are just blundered into. Overall, it's not a bad read if you just want something to breeze through. Just for completion and curiosity, I will probably read the trilogy. I might wait a while between books though.
April 17, 2023
I had this book on my tbr for a while, but once I found out that it was written by Kenley Davidson I needed to read it when it was rereleased. And it did not disappoint, this book is a ride. I loved that Kira wasn’t automatically amazing at everything once she decided enter the supernatural side of her world to find her aunt. She had to decide to be courageous when all she wanted to do was hide. And Draven was giving my Rigel vibes (from Court of Midnight and Deception by KM Shea, also amazing books). Scary af unless you’re one of their people. I’m excited to read the rest of the trilogy when it’s rereleased!!
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