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How to Train Your Harem #1
To Call the Clouds
Dragons are real, and that changes everything….
Maggie's nine-to-five existence takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself in a world of fantasy and magic she didn't know existed. With a sarcastic dragon riding on her shoulder, she embarks on a new adventure to get her life back on track.
Seeking clarity and solitude while wintering in an isolated mountain cabin, Maggie discovers she may not be as alone as she thinks. The shadows are alive. Can Maggie learn to trust and find love in their dark embrace? What kind of future can she have with a curse controlling their lives?
When danger comes from an unexpected source, will the shadows break free in time to save Maggie, or will tragedy return them to the darkness forever?
Despite the cute dragon on the cover, this book is intended for audiences 18+. In this romance, the leading lady will not be forced to choose between her love interests. She gets to have her cake and eat it, too. This novel contains situations that may cause discomfort for some readers, including kidnapping, domestic violence, emotional abuse, threat and discussion of sexual assault, PTSD and panic attacks. If any of these things make you uncomfortable as a reader, please do not read this book.
Maggie's nine-to-five existence takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself in a world of fantasy and magic she didn't know existed. With a sarcastic dragon riding on her shoulder, she embarks on a new adventure to get her life back on track.
Seeking clarity and solitude while wintering in an isolated mountain cabin, Maggie discovers she may not be as alone as she thinks. The shadows are alive. Can Maggie learn to trust and find love in their dark embrace? What kind of future can she have with a curse controlling their lives?
When danger comes from an unexpected source, will the shadows break free in time to save Maggie, or will tragedy return them to the darkness forever?
Despite the cute dragon on the cover, this book is intended for audiences 18+. In this romance, the leading lady will not be forced to choose between her love interests. She gets to have her cake and eat it, too. This novel contains situations that may cause discomfort for some readers, including kidnapping, domestic violence, emotional abuse, threat and discussion of sexual assault, PTSD and panic attacks. If any of these things make you uncomfortable as a reader, please do not read this book.
478 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2022
298 people are currently reading
632 people want to read
About the author
Tawny Oakland
9 books145 followersTawny is a lover of all things books. It’s not uncommon for her to lose an entire day off to a world that only exists between the pages. She was born and raised in the great state of Wyoming and would be lost in a big city. Besides her love of reading and writing, she enjoys nature photography and online gaming. She shares her home with two cats, a giant spoiled dog, and her very tolerant and supportive husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 5, 2022
How to Train your Dragons Harem
3.5⭐️
This was a fun and exciting adventure. The world building and character development was great, I can definitely see many more stories or characters being added to this world and excited for the next book- To Heal All Wounds: How to Train Your Harem 😏. They’re dragon shifters, so this is a hilarious series title and I’m here for it. 🎉
This has multi POVs, a HEA and potentially a cliffhanger extra ending (that involves other characters, not Maggie or her dragon men 🤓). I found that unique and loved that btw! Ending the book perfectly, everything all tied up, but giving a warning that the next part can be a cliffhanger as it introduces the next book. Respect.
Maggie was funny and strong and clever. I loved how you can see her arc grow from the beginning to the very last page.
The men in Maggie’s harem were great, I’m really glad we got their POV, because sometimes I could feel them start to blend together, but when they had their own chapters, it snapped me back into focus.
I do feel there were instances of being told things were happening and not shown, but it wasn’t enough to distract me or put me off.
The writing was good and I loved that despite some heavy material (please don’t let the cover fool you) there was some humor thrown in. You wouldn’t expect it which is the best.
I’m ready for the next please. 😊
3.5⭐️
This was a fun and exciting adventure. The world building and character development was great, I can definitely see many more stories or characters being added to this world and excited for the next book- To Heal All Wounds: How to Train Your Harem 😏. They’re dragon shifters, so this is a hilarious series title and I’m here for it. 🎉
This has multi POVs, a HEA and potentially a cliffhanger extra ending (that involves other characters, not Maggie or her dragon men 🤓). I found that unique and loved that btw! Ending the book perfectly, everything all tied up, but giving a warning that the next part can be a cliffhanger as it introduces the next book. Respect.
Maggie was funny and strong and clever. I loved how you can see her arc grow from the beginning to the very last page.
The men in Maggie’s harem were great, I’m really glad we got their POV, because sometimes I could feel them start to blend together, but when they had their own chapters, it snapped me back into focus.
I do feel there were instances of being told things were happening and not shown, but it wasn’t enough to distract me or put me off.
The writing was good and I loved that despite some heavy material (please don’t let the cover fool you) there was some humor thrown in. You wouldn’t expect it which is the best.
I’m ready for the next please. 😊
January 29, 2023
3.4 stars.
So. Butterfly Dragons? Cool as hell. I loved Nox. Hes so adorable and just so stinkin Cool!
The rest of the book though? Just meh, honestly.
First off. It was so freaking long and hardly anything happens. This book covers a span of like 3-4 months, mostly skipping through, but almost nothing happens during those months except their relationship getting tighter.
And second, and the most annoying, I’ve never seen characters address other characters by their names So Fucking Much. 😑 That’s just not natural dialogue at all. I swear, every time they addressed each other they said their name first. It was annoying and weird and just made everything feel so formal for zero reason.
Plus. I have now decided that there IS such a thing as being Too openly communicative.
Every single time there was even a hint of doubt or tiny spike of emotion in any direction they all addressed each other and broke down their feelings step by step and talked it out. Ugh. It was nice to begin with. Then it just got old. And that’s just ridiculous. Something so healthy as that shouldn’t be getting ‘old’…I know. But it just did.
The plot was a little too drawn out for my liking.
The characters were great but there was zero tension. Zero push and pull. And yet it wasn’t really insta love either so it was just kind of boringly even keel.
The paranormal side of it all was cool as hell with the dragons and I Loved Nox, but all the rest was just like the relationship. Where there should have been conflict, things just sort of fizzled out and moved on instead.
The sex was ok. It was nice and steamy and some parts pretty hot, but it was just lacking some..I don’t know, maybe because there was zero tension it felt like the passion just wasn’t showing through the pages.
I don’t know.
I kept reading mainly because I got really attached to the little shoulder warmer, baby sized, man dragon with pretty wings….
So. Butterfly Dragons? Cool as hell. I loved Nox. Hes so adorable and just so stinkin Cool!
The rest of the book though? Just meh, honestly.
First off. It was so freaking long and hardly anything happens. This book covers a span of like 3-4 months, mostly skipping through, but almost nothing happens during those months except their relationship getting tighter.
And second, and the most annoying, I’ve never seen characters address other characters by their names So Fucking Much. 😑 That’s just not natural dialogue at all. I swear, every time they addressed each other they said their name first. It was annoying and weird and just made everything feel so formal for zero reason.
Plus. I have now decided that there IS such a thing as being Too openly communicative.
Every single time there was even a hint of doubt or tiny spike of emotion in any direction they all addressed each other and broke down their feelings step by step and talked it out. Ugh. It was nice to begin with. Then it just got old. And that’s just ridiculous. Something so healthy as that shouldn’t be getting ‘old’…I know. But it just did.
The plot was a little too drawn out for my liking.
The characters were great but there was zero tension. Zero push and pull. And yet it wasn’t really insta love either so it was just kind of boringly even keel.
The paranormal side of it all was cool as hell with the dragons and I Loved Nox, but all the rest was just like the relationship. Where there should have been conflict, things just sort of fizzled out and moved on instead.
The sex was ok. It was nice and steamy and some parts pretty hot, but it was just lacking some..I don’t know, maybe because there was zero tension it felt like the passion just wasn’t showing through the pages.
I don’t know.
I kept reading mainly because I got really attached to the little shoulder warmer, baby sized, man dragon with pretty wings….
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April 9, 2023dnf at 26% - no rating
I love the cover of this book and this was for sure a cover love read. There were great ideas in this book. Why did I dnf it? Mainly because everything was very slow. I saw no relationship building (which is okay) but also there was no real plot. Both combined and I became bored.
This book is in need of a lot of editing, so the great ideas can shine. On the good side: I will try future series of this author and maybe come back to this one, after it is edited and shortened.
I love the cover of this book and this was for sure a cover love read. There were great ideas in this book. Why did I dnf it? Mainly because everything was very slow. I saw no relationship building (which is okay) but also there was no real plot. Both combined and I became bored.
This book is in need of a lot of editing, so the great ideas can shine. On the good side: I will try future series of this author and maybe come back to this one, after it is edited and shortened.
November 4, 2022
Entertaining read
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
Darkness Level: 💀
⚠️ Kidnapping, drugging, knife use, murder, attempted SA.
This was my first book by this author. It was well written, made me smile throughout, and was a pleasant read with plenty of emotions.
We all know the classic saying: don't judge a book by its cover. So ignore the cute My Little Pony vibes it gives off, as although most of it is very sweet, there is an undercurrent of danger and darkness to it.
Now, I'll admit, this isn't the kind of book I usually read, and I was a little apprehensive when I started it. But I was pleasantly surprised, and quite enjoyed the world the author pulled me into. The characters are very realistic with plenty of insecurities. I almost had to wonder if the author works in the mental health care profession, as the characters go to great lengths to set boundaries, have honest conversations, and regularly discuss their feelings. You know...what a healthy adult relationship should look like. 😆
It's mostly a very sweet read, but beware the bit of danger that goes with it. Recommended for those that enjoy lighter paranormal why-choose books with all the feels.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
Darkness Level: 💀
⚠️ Kidnapping, drugging, knife use, murder, attempted SA.
This was my first book by this author. It was well written, made me smile throughout, and was a pleasant read with plenty of emotions.
We all know the classic saying: don't judge a book by its cover. So ignore the cute My Little Pony vibes it gives off, as although most of it is very sweet, there is an undercurrent of danger and darkness to it.
Now, I'll admit, this isn't the kind of book I usually read, and I was a little apprehensive when I started it. But I was pleasantly surprised, and quite enjoyed the world the author pulled me into. The characters are very realistic with plenty of insecurities. I almost had to wonder if the author works in the mental health care profession, as the characters go to great lengths to set boundaries, have honest conversations, and regularly discuss their feelings. You know...what a healthy adult relationship should look like. 😆
It's mostly a very sweet read, but beware the bit of danger that goes with it. Recommended for those that enjoy lighter paranormal why-choose books with all the feels.
February 24, 2025
Oh. My. Goodness! I am totally in love with this book, this world. I flew through this book, having a hard time putting it down. I love all of the characters. The MCs are sweet, loving, sexy, but are not perfect (who is?!). They have insecurities, many that align so closely with my own. It's so nice to read books that have realistic characters. The side characters are fully people in their own right, not just there to react or push the MC plot, but have thoughts and personalities. I know they have stories to tell, and I can't wait to get to know them all better. Plus....dragons! What else do you need? Please be advised, though, there are some triggers. Read the trigger warnings carefully to make sure this book is ok for you. Otherwise...I completely recommend jumping into this new series!
July 15, 2025
a must read
I usually read thrillers but I gave this book a try and was pulled in from the first word! I can’t wait to read the next book to find out how this story continues and if Cobalt finds his mate.
I missed Maggie and her Harem of guys so I had to go back and read it again and yep it’s just as good the second time!
I usually read thrillers but I gave this book a try and was pulled in from the first word! I can’t wait to read the next book to find out how this story continues and if Cobalt finds his mate.
I missed Maggie and her Harem of guys so I had to go back and read it again and yep it’s just as good the second time!
November 10, 2022
So good!
Ok I loved this book. I love everything about how this was written and the story itself was so so good. I loved the dragon and I loved how she slowly learned to trust her men. Such an excellent romance! Can’t wait to read the next one!!!
Ok I loved this book. I love everything about how this was written and the story itself was so so good. I loved the dragon and I loved how she slowly learned to trust her men. Such an excellent romance! Can’t wait to read the next one!!!
April 21, 2023
That was just WONDERFUL. Like, so stinkin’ cute! I loved everything about it and I can’t believe this is the very first book she’s ever written. Lifelong fan now.
November 15, 2022
Amazing!!
I didn’t know anything about this book before picking it up except to expect dragons. That being said I am soooo glad I did!!! It was so good and intense. It captures you right away and the steamy scenes are so hot I swear it feels like your kindle will catch on fire lol. The story is captivating and you can’t wait to know what is going to happen next. The FMC struggles throughout the book and I love how it’s something that some people can relate to in one way or the other and you feel like you are healing along with her. Highly recommend this book! And I can’t wait for the next one. The author did an amazing job!
I didn’t know anything about this book before picking it up except to expect dragons. That being said I am soooo glad I did!!! It was so good and intense. It captures you right away and the steamy scenes are so hot I swear it feels like your kindle will catch on fire lol. The story is captivating and you can’t wait to know what is going to happen next. The FMC struggles throughout the book and I love how it’s something that some people can relate to in one way or the other and you feel like you are healing along with her. Highly recommend this book! And I can’t wait for the next one. The author did an amazing job!
April 5, 2023
dnf.
Disappointed because the reviews were promising but the MC’s inner dialogue felt too unrealistic and cheesy. Who meets a dragon and then wishes they could turn into a person so they could have sex? It was weird and it felt too forced. The writing also felt very young for this to be an 18+ book.
Disappointed because the reviews were promising but the MC’s inner dialogue felt too unrealistic and cheesy. Who meets a dragon and then wishes they could turn into a person so they could have sex? It was weird and it felt too forced. The writing also felt very young for this to be an 18+ book.
March 24, 2025
Um I don’t even have words to describe how much I absolutely love this book! It will forevermore be on my comfort list as #1
Tawny I have talked your poor ear off all day telling you how much I love this world you’ve created I cannot wait for more from you
😍😍😍😍😍
Tawny I have talked your poor ear off all day telling you how much I love this world you’ve created I cannot wait for more from you
😍😍😍😍😍
January 30, 2023
I loved this book. Which is rare.
I loved it, read it in two sittings, only taking a break to sleep, even read the acknowledgements and everything.
The book isn't perfect. It is a bit slow, it is kind of an insta-attraction or even love and the characters are very quick to open up to each other. The main character Maggie even says herself that she is very quick to grow attached. But I didn't mind at all, Maggie was 100% relatable and if I were in her shoes I would've probably been the same, I understood her insecureties and how she fell so hard so quickly.
While I was reading I was in a call with friends and discussed the book with them and how different it was to others I've read. The characters were mature and actually sat down and discussed things. Like whaaaaat . They joked how usually I compain that characters are too young and childish and don't talk and that now I complain that they're the opposite. So I had to explain that no, I'm not complaining, I'm terribly suprised and not used to it. I know some people will grow tired of it or think it's boring or unrealistic but I loved it. It gave me hope and it's something my partner and I try to do in our relationship. I just loved every second of it.
I was so glad that so much time was alotted to Maggie spending time with her harem. It was great to see that she found one thing she only did with one specific guy and made a point that no one felt left out or pushed aside - there were no favourites. I wish other novels included more fluff and domestic life.
The only thing I found a bit lacking maybe was the attraction somehow? You perfectly got the impression that the characters care for each other and that they cherish what they have but even though the smut was nice I was missing the sparks and the heat. It lacked the intensity.
Sometimes I had trouble picturing the characters, I know Finn is big and irish and has red hair; Shad has long black hair, a darker complexion and native american roots; and Nox is in his thirties. It would've been nice to know more about their looks, how they gesture or mimic, even how they carry themselves. In one scene Finn said that since he met Maggie he stood up straighter and didn't hunch as much, I don't remember reading about that or this change being described by her. I think this might be a case of some things being told rather than shown and maybe that's why some scenes lacked intensity, we're told what the characters think instead of seeing it in their behaviour, gazes, touches and they tell each other instead of showing it (in some cases, not all).
But I still loved this book, I know I pointed out quite some flaws but I still give it 5 stars, it was fun, the perfect length for me ( I wouldn't have minded it being even longer and focussing on them conquering the trauma together ) and I crave to read more from this author and maybe see them grow over their works. You cannot imagine my squeel of sheer joy when I read the excerpt from the second book and whose POV it was from.
And if I'll ever have the courage I'll bother you Ms Oakland because you need to know how much I loved this book and how little I can wait to read more.
I loved it, read it in two sittings, only taking a break to sleep, even read the acknowledgements and everything.
The book isn't perfect. It is a bit slow, it is kind of an insta-attraction or even love and the characters are very quick to open up to each other. The main character Maggie even says herself that she is very quick to grow attached. But I didn't mind at all, Maggie was 100% relatable and if I were in her shoes I would've probably been the same, I understood her insecureties and how she fell so hard so quickly.
While I was reading I was in a call with friends and discussed the book with them and how different it was to others I've read. The characters were mature and actually sat down and discussed things. Like whaaaaat . They joked how usually I compain that characters are too young and childish and don't talk and that now I complain that they're the opposite. So I had to explain that no, I'm not complaining, I'm terribly suprised and not used to it. I know some people will grow tired of it or think it's boring or unrealistic but I loved it. It gave me hope and it's something my partner and I try to do in our relationship. I just loved every second of it.
I was so glad that so much time was alotted to Maggie spending time with her harem. It was great to see that she found one thing she only did with one specific guy and made a point that no one felt left out or pushed aside - there were no favourites. I wish other novels included more fluff and domestic life.
The only thing I found a bit lacking maybe was the attraction somehow? You perfectly got the impression that the characters care for each other and that they cherish what they have but even though the smut was nice I was missing the sparks and the heat. It lacked the intensity.
Sometimes I had trouble picturing the characters, I know Finn is big and irish and has red hair; Shad has long black hair, a darker complexion and native american roots; and Nox is in his thirties. It would've been nice to know more about their looks, how they gesture or mimic, even how they carry themselves. In one scene Finn said that since he met Maggie he stood up straighter and didn't hunch as much, I don't remember reading about that or this change being described by her. I think this might be a case of some things being told rather than shown and maybe that's why some scenes lacked intensity, we're told what the characters think instead of seeing it in their behaviour, gazes, touches and they tell each other instead of showing it (in some cases, not all).
But I still loved this book, I know I pointed out quite some flaws but I still give it 5 stars, it was fun, the perfect length for me ( I wouldn't have minded it being even longer and focussing on them conquering the trauma together ) and I crave to read more from this author and maybe see them grow over their works. You cannot imagine my squeel of sheer joy when I read the excerpt from the second book and whose POV it was from.
And if I'll ever have the courage I'll bother you Ms Oakland because you need to know how much I loved this book and how little I can wait to read more.
June 20, 2023
3.5 Stars
This is her first book so I expect her writing to grow with each book that she writes, and I think should be taken into consideration when reading this book. I only read this book because of my friend, and I was also introduced to the author (who is really nice, and I feel so bad that I didn't love this book) otherwise I probably would have not even known about this book.
From reading the synopsis I knew it was a RH, but I thought that Nox the tiny dragon was just that a dragon, not a man and one of the three guys. So that threw me off a little. My main issue with the book was that I found it boring except for the sex scenes. The conversations between Maggie and the guys were too long at times and too healthy right away. There were a lot of tv shows and movie references in the book that I felt took away from the fact it is a paranormal romance and made it feel more like a contemporary romance to me. Maggie was way too excepting of a dragon, wolf, and lynx. There was no push and pull between the characters or witty banter which is a must have for me. I love it when one character in the RH is a grump and doesn't like the h right away. Nox, Shade, and Finn were all three so nice to Maggie and almost like the same guy except for being three different types of shifters. To me, nothing really happens until Chapter 35, and then it gets dark. I loved the last chapter and the epilogue which sets up the next book perfectly and made me want to read the next book.
This is her first book so I expect her writing to grow with each book that she writes, and I think should be taken into consideration when reading this book. I only read this book because of my friend, and I was also introduced to the author (who is really nice, and I feel so bad that I didn't love this book) otherwise I probably would have not even known about this book.
From reading the synopsis I knew it was a RH, but I thought that Nox the tiny dragon was just that a dragon, not a man and one of the three guys. So that threw me off a little. My main issue with the book was that I found it boring except for the sex scenes. The conversations between Maggie and the guys were too long at times and too healthy right away. There were a lot of tv shows and movie references in the book that I felt took away from the fact it is a paranormal romance and made it feel more like a contemporary romance to me. Maggie was way too excepting of a dragon, wolf, and lynx. There was no push and pull between the characters or witty banter which is a must have for me. I love it when one character in the RH is a grump and doesn't like the h right away. Nox, Shade, and Finn were all three so nice to Maggie and almost like the same guy except for being three different types of shifters. To me, nothing really happens until Chapter 35, and then it gets dark. I loved the last chapter and the epilogue which sets up the next book perfectly and made me want to read the next book.
June 21, 2024
Best series title ever!
So I just started reading book one in the How to Train Your Harem series yesterday (this series title has me giggling) and just finished it.
I'm about to start book 2, and I already have books 3 and 4 preordered 😅
I read the blurb and found it interesting and decided to download it as part of the stuff your Kindle Day . Best day ever!!
Maggie is such a fun FMC, and I enjoyed getting to know her and her meeting her men.
The fantasy element was not overwhelming, written in well, and there was no info dumping, which was good. we were told when fmc was told and when it was story relevant.
The interconnected stories of this series means that although this book has a HEA, we should see them in later books, which I love.
I gave this book a 5 star and am now diving into the next book
So I just started reading book one in the How to Train Your Harem series yesterday (this series title has me giggling) and just finished it.
I'm about to start book 2, and I already have books 3 and 4 preordered 😅
I read the blurb and found it interesting and decided to download it as part of the stuff your Kindle Day . Best day ever!!
Maggie is such a fun FMC, and I enjoyed getting to know her and her meeting her men.
The fantasy element was not overwhelming, written in well, and there was no info dumping, which was good. we were told when fmc was told and when it was story relevant.
The interconnected stories of this series means that although this book has a HEA, we should see them in later books, which I love.
I gave this book a 5 star and am now diving into the next book
November 1, 2022
This was an amazing and easy read! I absolutely loved the characters! They were super well developed and I was super invested in the characters from the get go. I cried with them and smiled with them. All of the characters were well thought out and I honestly related to Maggie (despite the fact I do not have my own pet dragon 🙁) The world building was amazing too!
If you like sweet/cinnamon roll MMCs, a relatable MC, dragons and an amazing fantasy world then this is the book for you!
FYI - I would love a pet dragon 🐉
If you like sweet/cinnamon roll MMCs, a relatable MC, dragons and an amazing fantasy world then this is the book for you!
FYI - I would love a pet dragon 🐉
November 4, 2022
This is a unique and captivating dragon romance. Main characters are realistic, loving and caring. The world building is vivid and full of details. It was easy to empathize with Maggie and what she has been through. There are some possible trigger topics please make note of the TW before reading. This is a great introduction to this world, series and author.
November 4, 2022
This book was so unique and enchanting, I just loved everything about it! There were so many good things about this book, I don't even know where to start. I will say that from the minute I picked it up I did not want to put it down, I legit got mad that I had to go to bed. To Call The Clouds is well written and done in such a way that I could feel the all the emotions. I laughed, I teared up, and I about bit all my darn nails off, such a gamut of emotions. When you read so much and the books bleed together its so nice to find one that really stands out to you, this book did that. I LOVED the characters, Nox has stolen my heart and now I want a tiny pocket dragon of my own!! And those spicy scenes had me squirming, whew! Don't be fooled though, yes this book is whimsical, quirky and fun but there are also some emotionally draining and traumatic scenes. Please check your triggers. I am beyond excited to dive into the next book as soon as it comes out!
October 25, 2022
From the first page I was sucked into this book. With the pocket-sized dragon, shadow creatures, witches and other pnr aspects. The story line was original. The world building fantastic. The characters were a perfect mix of sassy, sarcastic and sweet. I fell in love with Nox and Maggie and the rest of her guys! She is a slightly broken woman due to a series of unfortunate events but in the end love really did mend her spirit and they got their hea! I want my very own pocket-sized dragon I can perch on my shoulder. I can't wait to read book two and the new cast of characters.
March 4, 2023
Definitely a must read
I was not sure about this book when i first came across it, i was looking for a quick cute easy read and man was surprised to find how amazing this story is. I'm excited for the second installment. this is a standalone reverse harem but each book is connected. i finished this book in less than a day because i couldn't put it down.
I was not sure about this book when i first came across it, i was looking for a quick cute easy read and man was surprised to find how amazing this story is. I'm excited for the second installment. this is a standalone reverse harem but each book is connected. i finished this book in less than a day because i couldn't put it down.
February 8, 2023
Such a good book! Who wouldn't want a sexy little pocket dragon, or a harem of sexy and sweet men?! This story was so sweet, and had me totally engrossed from the first page. Definitely some major hot moments, and just as many super sweet and adorable moments. 5 star read!
May 26, 2024
Excellent
I didn't realise this was a debut book until I read the acknowledgements. Everything was so well balanced and easy to get drawn in to. Loved the characters and the scene setting.
Will definitely be following Tawny's future books.
I didn't realise this was a debut book until I read the acknowledgements. Everything was so well balanced and easy to get drawn in to. Loved the characters and the scene setting.
Will definitely be following Tawny's future books.
October 22, 2023
This was so good. All the MMC are well written and it definitely is full of all the feels. Often times in RH stories the MMC are flat and don't have differing relationships with the FMC, this is not like that at all. Maggie likes each MMC for different reasons and they each bring something different to the table. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for book 2 especially with the cliff hanger at the end
January 11, 2025
A unique and creative paranormal romance
I'm not an avid paranormal romance reader but Tawnys book baby had me hooked and wanting more. I can not wait for book two.
I'm not an avid paranormal romance reader but Tawnys book baby had me hooked and wanting more. I can not wait for book two.
August 1, 2024
not my cup of tea …. but i did like the wee dragon
the book started off strong … well written … sprinkling of humour … snarky wee dragon ( who was far and away more interesting than the FMC or the other MMCs) and i was pleased that i had found a new (to me) writer that i could add to my favourites list … and then the FMC took a nose dive into insecurities and freaking out about her weight and her looks that went on …and on …and on for several chapters… i’m assuming that she eventually got over herself ( or the wee dragon got fed up and booked her into therapy sessions ) but i will never know as i DNF
however i am sure there will be plenty of readers that will love and relate to the FMC and enjoy this book immensely…. just not me
⭐️ because the author deserves some recognition and kudos for taking the time and energy to write this - (but please don’t make me read it again) … however correct word use / spelling / grammar / punctuation / professional proof reading and editing are a vital necessity all writers need to fully embrace like a long lost and greatly desired lover …
⭐️⭐️ close and yet so far for … loved the concept just not the delivery for various reasons … but most likely because of the glaringly obvious lack of professional proofreading and editing skills … and also … one … if not all … of the main characters made me want to slap them (and not in a good / fun/ sexy way) because they were utterly annoying or worse boring …. but i am sure some other readers will love it… just not me ..
⭐️⭐️⭐️ things that make you go hmmmm …. but not : oh my god yes give me more … and because correct spelling/ grammar/ punctuation and professional proof reading and editing of a book are essential for any story to flow smoothly …. still worth the time to read … who knows you might love it …
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ definitely worthy of songs of praise and numerous re reads …
but not quite a 5⭐️ simply because of editing/ spelling / grammar / punctuation/ wrong words/ wrong names or wrong physical descriptions of main characters / minor story line issues ( all things that are a pet hates of mine and make me grumpy) …. which interrupted the flow of the story and forced me back into reality …
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ gah… I’ve found the meaning of life and couldn’t stuff the story into my greedy brain fast enough …. loved it so much i will willingly make snacks / give massages / oversee human sacrifices if it helps the author ( who is a true god/ goddess of story telling and worthy of worship and copious amounts of adulation ) write more books immediately so i can buy them and hoard them like a wanna be dragon ….
in other words … drop everything and read this book right now and you can thank me later 😁
the book started off strong … well written … sprinkling of humour … snarky wee dragon ( who was far and away more interesting than the FMC or the other MMCs) and i was pleased that i had found a new (to me) writer that i could add to my favourites list … and then the FMC took a nose dive into insecurities and freaking out about her weight and her looks that went on …and on …and on for several chapters… i’m assuming that she eventually got over herself ( or the wee dragon got fed up and booked her into therapy sessions ) but i will never know as i DNF
however i am sure there will be plenty of readers that will love and relate to the FMC and enjoy this book immensely…. just not me
⭐️ because the author deserves some recognition and kudos for taking the time and energy to write this - (but please don’t make me read it again) … however correct word use / spelling / grammar / punctuation / professional proof reading and editing are a vital necessity all writers need to fully embrace like a long lost and greatly desired lover …
⭐️⭐️ close and yet so far for … loved the concept just not the delivery for various reasons … but most likely because of the glaringly obvious lack of professional proofreading and editing skills … and also … one … if not all … of the main characters made me want to slap them (and not in a good / fun/ sexy way) because they were utterly annoying or worse boring …. but i am sure some other readers will love it… just not me ..
⭐️⭐️⭐️ things that make you go hmmmm …. but not : oh my god yes give me more … and because correct spelling/ grammar/ punctuation and professional proof reading and editing of a book are essential for any story to flow smoothly …. still worth the time to read … who knows you might love it …
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ definitely worthy of songs of praise and numerous re reads …
but not quite a 5⭐️ simply because of editing/ spelling / grammar / punctuation/ wrong words/ wrong names or wrong physical descriptions of main characters / minor story line issues ( all things that are a pet hates of mine and make me grumpy) …. which interrupted the flow of the story and forced me back into reality …
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ gah… I’ve found the meaning of life and couldn’t stuff the story into my greedy brain fast enough …. loved it so much i will willingly make snacks / give massages / oversee human sacrifices if it helps the author ( who is a true god/ goddess of story telling and worthy of worship and copious amounts of adulation ) write more books immediately so i can buy them and hoard them like a wanna be dragon ….
in other words … drop everything and read this book right now and you can thank me later 😁
July 6, 2024
Lot of telling, little showing
A decent book, for all of its lack of trigger warnings. Which, btw, include kidnapping, beating, a knife attack, threats of S.A., and near r*pe. Definitely big ones that readers deserve to be warned about. Most of the story is fluffy, with a lot of telling instead of showing, insta-love, and all the other PNR tropes. The telling instead of showing would have left it at 3 stars, but the lack of warnings dropped it. I don't enjoy those sorts of curveballs thrown at me without warning. And the epilogue? The only warning there is about a cliffhanger. Not a peep about the content. So, yeah, lower stars. Otherwise the book is all happy happy joy joy, everything resolved quickly with supreme ease. Like the guy from the internet videos says: "super easy, barely an inconvenience".
My biggest ick/squick factor came from how butterfly dragons came to be. Um, ew. I mean I love them, too, but the base they were created from are not sentient. Sure, apparently magic changed all that and gave them human emotions and thought processes, but still trapped in an animal's body. So, again, ew. Because it's not like monster romances where the full grown non-human version is adult human sized (or larger). Nox is smaller than a Barbie doll, naive to relationships, doesn't have a human form, among other things. While some.ofntjose issues are resolved, through magic of course, it still bothers me what he was created from. I have a couple of them wandering my house, I do not look at them like apparently the witch who changed them did. There's a word for that type of behavior, and it isn't a nice one.
A decent book, for all of its lack of trigger warnings. Which, btw, include kidnapping, beating, a knife attack, threats of S.A., and near r*pe. Definitely big ones that readers deserve to be warned about. Most of the story is fluffy, with a lot of telling instead of showing, insta-love, and all the other PNR tropes. The telling instead of showing would have left it at 3 stars, but the lack of warnings dropped it. I don't enjoy those sorts of curveballs thrown at me without warning. And the epilogue? The only warning there is about a cliffhanger. Not a peep about the content. So, yeah, lower stars. Otherwise the book is all happy happy joy joy, everything resolved quickly with supreme ease. Like the guy from the internet videos says: "super easy, barely an inconvenience".
My biggest ick/squick factor came from how butterfly dragons came to be. Um, ew. I mean I love them, too, but the base they were created from are not sentient. Sure, apparently magic changed all that and gave them human emotions and thought processes, but still trapped in an animal's body. So, again, ew. Because it's not like monster romances where the full grown non-human version is adult human sized (or larger). Nox is smaller than a Barbie doll, naive to relationships, doesn't have a human form, among other things. While some.ofntjose issues are resolved, through magic of course, it still bothers me what he was created from. I have a couple of them wandering my house, I do not look at them like apparently the witch who changed them did. There's a word for that type of behavior, and it isn't a nice one.
January 19, 2025
This book was pretty much tailor-made for me.
The premise is basically that someone read The Dragonriders of Pern at an impressionable age, like I did, and wanted a telepathic dragon, like I did, but then was hoping there could be a lot fewer vaguely non-con sex scenes, particularly involving the dragon. Um. Like I did.
Anyway, this was the perfect amount of cozy without being pure fluff. The characters are all #relationshipgoals, and it's also just a lot of fun wish-fulfilment. It's why-choose, which is always a bonus, and I ended up loving all three of the guys pretty much equally. I will say that despite the book being very sweet for the most part, the end goes to a pretty dark place. She handled that part well, and I didn't feel like it was gratuitous, and the more I think about it the more I'm glad that scene is there because it undercut the sweetness of all the fluff that came before and after. Also, she sets up the second book in a very compelling epilogue that means I'll be going on to the next one. We end up meeting all the characters, and as with this current book, I don't know if I'm going to be able to pick a favorite out of the second harem.
TLDR: This was a whychoose book, but for me, specifically, since I could have the sexy and tormented heroes *and* a cute dragon in the harem. I do think some might say the book is a bit too long, but I loved marinating in the slowness of the burn and I truly can't wait to see what happens in the next one.
I'd never heard of this book or author until I saw the listing for book 4 on the whychoose.com website. It's always fun finding an author who feels like a unique discovery just to me.
The premise is basically that someone read The Dragonriders of Pern at an impressionable age, like I did, and wanted a telepathic dragon, like I did, but then was hoping there could be a lot fewer vaguely non-con sex scenes, particularly involving the dragon. Um. Like I did.
Anyway, this was the perfect amount of cozy without being pure fluff. The characters are all #relationshipgoals, and it's also just a lot of fun wish-fulfilment. It's why-choose, which is always a bonus, and I ended up loving all three of the guys pretty much equally. I will say that despite the book being very sweet for the most part, the end goes to a pretty dark place. She handled that part well, and I didn't feel like it was gratuitous, and the more I think about it the more I'm glad that scene is there because it undercut the sweetness of all the fluff that came before and after. Also, she sets up the second book in a very compelling epilogue that means I'll be going on to the next one. We end up meeting all the characters, and as with this current book, I don't know if I'm going to be able to pick a favorite out of the second harem.
TLDR: This was a whychoose book, but for me, specifically, since I could have the sexy and tormented heroes *and* a cute dragon in the harem. I do think some might say the book is a bit too long, but I loved marinating in the slowness of the burn and I truly can't wait to see what happens in the next one.
I'd never heard of this book or author until I saw the listing for book 4 on the whychoose.com website. It's always fun finding an author who feels like a unique discovery just to me.
March 10, 2023
I think this needed another round or 2 of editing.
The writing is very stiff, the dialogue was very formal. It's a lot of infodumping and showing not telling. It's really long and there are quite a few scenes that could have been cut without if afecting the narrative. The smut was very surface level and there's not really any sexual tension between the characters. (Oh, and for anyone looking since I couldn't find the info anywhere, this is FMMM)
There's a few continuity errors and plot holes. One specifically that comes to mind is the fact that men that "died" in 1860 magically know how to operate a modern day truck? They knew to look for keys, turn the ignition, shift the gearstick, use the pedal on the right for go, left for stop... I also think the learning about current times through TV was a cop-out.
It's pretty fluffy for the most part, however the tone of the novel completely shifts when at around the 75/80% mark. There is a sexual assault tag and it earns it at the end. And, honestly, it did not fit the rest of the story. It seemed so out of place and random. So, I would skip chapter 38. You won't lose anything from the story.
That said, the concept is nice. It feels, at times, that you're reading a middle schoolers fantasy journal. You know that girl in school that was obsessed with dragons and fairies? Who probably wore cheesy graphic tshirts with a unicorn on the front? Yeah, that's what this feels like. Like, who wouldn't want a nice shoulder dragon who also happens to be your boyfriend? Like a totally childish fantasy but in an adult setting.
The writing is very stiff, the dialogue was very formal. It's a lot of infodumping and showing not telling. It's really long and there are quite a few scenes that could have been cut without if afecting the narrative. The smut was very surface level and there's not really any sexual tension between the characters. (Oh, and for anyone looking since I couldn't find the info anywhere, this is FMMM)
There's a few continuity errors and plot holes. One specifically that comes to mind is the fact that men that "died" in 1860 magically know how to operate a modern day truck? They knew to look for keys, turn the ignition, shift the gearstick, use the pedal on the right for go, left for stop... I also think the learning about current times through TV was a cop-out.
It's pretty fluffy for the most part, however the tone of the novel completely shifts when at around the 75/80% mark. There is a sexual assault tag and it earns it at the end. And, honestly, it did not fit the rest of the story. It seemed so out of place and random. So, I would skip chapter 38. You won't lose anything from the story.
That said, the concept is nice. It feels, at times, that you're reading a middle schoolers fantasy journal. You know that girl in school that was obsessed with dragons and fairies? Who probably wore cheesy graphic tshirts with a unicorn on the front? Yeah, that's what this feels like. Like, who wouldn't want a nice shoulder dragon who also happens to be your boyfriend? Like a totally childish fantasy but in an adult setting.
April 6, 2023
DNF @ 23% -- 10 chapters.
The book has some good bones. An interesting concept, some great descriptors, and the start to an interesting mystery.
It is let down by a heroine with zero curiosity or interest in learning and the slow pacing. 23% in and it has been 3 months. You'd think that means things would be progressing, but no, it takes her 3 months to ask Nox, the dragon, what happened to his friends-- the 2 men he cared most about in this world. No important conversations have happened in 3 months!! And she just let's things happen to her (random ass pats, shoulder touches, and tucked into bed by no one, candles randomly on, animals that can understand human speech) without questioning it.
Learns butterfly dragons exist and then doesn't ask about other supernatural creatures? Yeah... okay.
Learns psychics exist and still doesn't question Nox about what else is out there or even how Sam has kept Nox's accounts going (seriously how has this dragon had a bank account for over a hundred years)?
Learns Sam can sell her photos and then just... doesn't do anything about it or wonder how his client even saw her photo.
I'm so frustrated because it seemed like this book was going to be so sweet and cozy. Again, good bones, so I'll try reading this author again in the future, just probably not this series.
The book has some good bones. An interesting concept, some great descriptors, and the start to an interesting mystery.
It is let down by a heroine with zero curiosity or interest in learning and the slow pacing. 23% in and it has been 3 months. You'd think that means things would be progressing, but no, it takes her 3 months to ask Nox, the dragon, what happened to his friends-- the 2 men he cared most about in this world. No important conversations have happened in 3 months!! And she just let's things happen to her (random ass pats, shoulder touches, and tucked into bed by no one, candles randomly on, animals that can understand human speech) without questioning it.
Learns butterfly dragons exist and then doesn't ask about other supernatural creatures? Yeah... okay.
Learns psychics exist and still doesn't question Nox about what else is out there or even how Sam has kept Nox's accounts going (seriously how has this dragon had a bank account for over a hundred years)?
Learns Sam can sell her photos and then just... doesn't do anything about it or wonder how his client even saw her photo.
I'm so frustrated because it seemed like this book was going to be so sweet and cozy. Again, good bones, so I'll try reading this author again in the future, just probably not this series.
April 13, 2023
Ms. Oakland is a new to me author.
The story she has created kept me captivated. I was up late at night man y times to find out what was going to happen next.
I was drawn to the story as one of the main characters, Nox, is a dragon. However, in Ms. Oakland's world, the dragons are about the size of a small cat/kitten. I enjoyed his interactions with the FMC, and how they grew their relationship.
Maggie is a character that I could relate to. Her insecurities are ones that I have dealt with as well. Her love for Nox is evident early on in the story.
Due to spoilers, I won't say much about the other two men in the harem. I will say that their backstory was fascinating and there was a very unique way to bring them in.
The only aspect of the story that made me frown was the absolute acceptance of each other. While doubts were internalized, not much was really said with the others. When it was, it seemed like the explanations/acceptances were too easy. I expected a bit more resistance with the characters. While there was a bit of struggle when Maggie first met the other two men, her acceptance was too quick. Too easy.
Despite the above paragraph, I enjoyed all the characters, the dynamics between them, and how they helped each other through their various insecurities.
I will be looking forward to the next book in the series.
The story she has created kept me captivated. I was up late at night man y times to find out what was going to happen next.
I was drawn to the story as one of the main characters, Nox, is a dragon. However, in Ms. Oakland's world, the dragons are about the size of a small cat/kitten. I enjoyed his interactions with the FMC, and how they grew their relationship.
Maggie is a character that I could relate to. Her insecurities are ones that I have dealt with as well. Her love for Nox is evident early on in the story.
Due to spoilers, I won't say much about the other two men in the harem. I will say that their backstory was fascinating and there was a very unique way to bring them in.
The only aspect of the story that made me frown was the absolute acceptance of each other. While doubts were internalized, not much was really said with the others. When it was, it seemed like the explanations/acceptances were too easy. I expected a bit more resistance with the characters. While there was a bit of struggle when Maggie first met the other two men, her acceptance was too quick. Too easy.
Despite the above paragraph, I enjoyed all the characters, the dynamics between them, and how they helped each other through their various insecurities.
I will be looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 11, 2024
Last chance for spoilers.. if you are looking for a spoiler about the dragon... that's what this is...
here it is...
he does finally turn into a man. I couldn't find a review about it when I was halfway through and I really wish I had one because I didn't almost DNF. I am 1000% a cat person. My cat is my best friend so having Nox constantly be compared to a cat but then have the fmc be attracted to him was.. uncomfy. Especially because in my mind his voice when he was a dragon was more childlike.. it was weird. But thank goodness it does end eventually. I do wish he were introduced in a more mature way.. but at least he ends up human.
I really liked the authors style and the uniqueness of the story. I felt that each character was different and had their own quirks which were enjoyable and it was easy to relate to them in the way that a reader enjoys.
My biggest issue with this book is that it is soooo long and then the conflict is solved within hours? Doesn't even take a full day.. Granted, there was enough going on with curses and such that it was interesting throughout I just wish they had faced more current issues that they could build upon because the length made it kind of boring at times.
The fmc's insecurities felt a little repetitive at times.. which made the length feel worse.
here it is...
he does finally turn into a man. I couldn't find a review about it when I was halfway through and I really wish I had one because I didn't almost DNF. I am 1000% a cat person. My cat is my best friend so having Nox constantly be compared to a cat but then have the fmc be attracted to him was.. uncomfy. Especially because in my mind his voice when he was a dragon was more childlike.. it was weird. But thank goodness it does end eventually. I do wish he were introduced in a more mature way.. but at least he ends up human.
I really liked the authors style and the uniqueness of the story. I felt that each character was different and had their own quirks which were enjoyable and it was easy to relate to them in the way that a reader enjoys.
My biggest issue with this book is that it is soooo long and then the conflict is solved within hours? Doesn't even take a full day.. Granted, there was enough going on with curses and such that it was interesting throughout I just wish they had faced more current issues that they could build upon because the length made it kind of boring at times.
The fmc's insecurities felt a little repetitive at times.. which made the length feel worse.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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