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Dragons of Reverie #1
Captive Dragon
Storm, born of an esteemed lineage, avoids the violent politics of his species until the power struggle comes to him. After being attacked while traveling home, he overcame his assailant. Wounded and vulnerable, Storm retreats into a cave to heal, only to be woken from a healing sleep by a band of cutthroats intent on taking his hide.
Selah has been kidnapped. The thugs wanted an elven mindhealer, but she is only an apprentice. Now her captors are insisting she slay a dragon for them by addling its mind. To refuse means death for her, but to comply would be death of a different kind.
Captive Dragon is a noblebright fantasy romance novel about a relationship between a dragon shifter and a warrior elf. It features an alpha/cinnamon roll of a reluctant hero and his feisty heroine being forced into close proximity on a road trip to figure out both their pasts and futures.
Selah has been kidnapped. The thugs wanted an elven mindhealer, but she is only an apprentice. Now her captors are insisting she slay a dragon for them by addling its mind. To refuse means death for her, but to comply would be death of a different kind.
Captive Dragon is a noblebright fantasy romance novel about a relationship between a dragon shifter and a warrior elf. It features an alpha/cinnamon roll of a reluctant hero and his feisty heroine being forced into close proximity on a road trip to figure out both their pasts and futures.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 16, 2026
This is a warm hug of a book given form as a fantasy romance. Cue reluctant heir heading home and gets attacked. He survives the attack, gets poisoned, and finds a cave where he expects to spend his final moments. Enter a warrior elf taken by some cutthroats. They think that she’ll be useful in subjugating a dying dragon...but instead...she heals him...and in the process...accidentally entangles their respective magics. Sounds pretty interesting, right? Well, it is!
Captive Dragon is a riveting novel that draws you in from the first page and keeps you engaged as Storm and Selah embark on a journey together. She saves his life, but it’s not long before he in turn saves hers. There is a connection there, and he’s not willing to let it go. She’s been traumatized by past experiences in her life. He refuses to allow those to define her in his eyes.
The romance builds slowly, but he falls first. The romance is sweet without being over the top. It draws you in and absolutely warms your heart as the characters “grow” on each other. The connection is there, and it’s delightful to witness. No steamy moments to be found here. A couple of passionate kisses, and that’s it. So, if you prefer lighter romance...this book is for you.
This book reads like a standalone, but I can’t wait to read the next book to come and find out what happens next. I’m sure that it’s going to be good.
Captive Dragon is a riveting novel that draws you in from the first page and keeps you engaged as Storm and Selah embark on a journey together. She saves his life, but it’s not long before he in turn saves hers. There is a connection there, and he’s not willing to let it go. She’s been traumatized by past experiences in her life. He refuses to allow those to define her in his eyes.
The romance builds slowly, but he falls first. The romance is sweet without being over the top. It draws you in and absolutely warms your heart as the characters “grow” on each other. The connection is there, and it’s delightful to witness. No steamy moments to be found here. A couple of passionate kisses, and that’s it. So, if you prefer lighter romance...this book is for you.
This book reads like a standalone, but I can’t wait to read the next book to come and find out what happens next. I’m sure that it’s going to be good.
March 15, 2026
[3.5 stars]
A little slow but it has an interesting world and plot. This is a romantasy with dragons, elves, gargoyles, and magic. Though I didn’t love it, I found it sufficiently entertaining and it held my attention well enough.
I will say, for having a slower pace, the relationship develops very quickly. The MCs inadvertently form a magical link early in the book, which helps to fast-track everything… But it also seems to be the entire basis of their relationship, something that caused it to feel both shallow and unromantic.
Not great, but not bad either.
Content:
There is no foul language or sex, and the violence is minimal. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no mention of faith or God.
Trigger warning - the FMC suffers from a traumatic past and PTSD
A little slow but it has an interesting world and plot. This is a romantasy with dragons, elves, gargoyles, and magic. Though I didn’t love it, I found it sufficiently entertaining and it held my attention well enough.
I will say, for having a slower pace, the relationship develops very quickly. The MCs inadvertently form a magical link early in the book, which helps to fast-track everything… But it also seems to be the entire basis of their relationship, something that caused it to feel both shallow and unromantic.
Not great, but not bad either.
Content:
There is no foul language or sex, and the violence is minimal. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no mention of faith or God.
Trigger warning - the FMC suffers from a traumatic past and PTSD
February 2, 2026
Going into Captive Dragon, I thought I was getting a more intense, high-action dragon shifter fantasy. What I actually got was a soft, character-driven romantasy that leans hard into emotional connection, healing, and trust rather than nonstop plot twists. If you go in expecting chaos and constant action, you might feel thrown off. If you go in wanting something gentler, warmer, and deeply character-focused, this book really shines.
Storm is a dragon shifter who carries a lot of quiet weight. He’s not loud or domineering he’s restrained, cautious, and emotionally guarded in a way that feels earned. Selah, as an apprentice healer, brings this steady compassion that balances him beautifully. Their relationship doesn’t rush. It unfolds slowly, built on proximity, shared danger, and small moments of care rather than dramatic declarations.
That slow burn is something I saw echoed again and again in reader reviews, and I agree it’s intentional. This book is more about connection forming than sparks flying. There’s tenderness here. There’s safety. There’s that feeling of two people learning to trust when neither of them is in a position of power.
One of the standout elements for me was Beggar the dog. He’s not just a side character he adds warmth, grounding, and emotional relief in a way that genuinely matters to the story. I don’t say that lightly. He brought heart.
That said, this book won’t work for everyone. The worldbuilding is lighter than some fantasy readers may want, especially early on. Dragon politics, the wider world, and certain stakes are hinted at more than fully explored. I personally wanted a bit more depth there, especially since the setup is intriguing. The pacing is also slower, particularly in the middle, which matches the tone but may feel drawn out if you’re craving momentum.
Still, this book knows exactly what it’s trying to be and it succeeds at that. It’s comforting, emotionally sincere, and quietly romantic. It’s about survival, kindness, and choosing connection in a dangerous world.
Storm is a dragon shifter who carries a lot of quiet weight. He’s not loud or domineering he’s restrained, cautious, and emotionally guarded in a way that feels earned. Selah, as an apprentice healer, brings this steady compassion that balances him beautifully. Their relationship doesn’t rush. It unfolds slowly, built on proximity, shared danger, and small moments of care rather than dramatic declarations.
That slow burn is something I saw echoed again and again in reader reviews, and I agree it’s intentional. This book is more about connection forming than sparks flying. There’s tenderness here. There’s safety. There’s that feeling of two people learning to trust when neither of them is in a position of power.
One of the standout elements for me was Beggar the dog. He’s not just a side character he adds warmth, grounding, and emotional relief in a way that genuinely matters to the story. I don’t say that lightly. He brought heart.
That said, this book won’t work for everyone. The worldbuilding is lighter than some fantasy readers may want, especially early on. Dragon politics, the wider world, and certain stakes are hinted at more than fully explored. I personally wanted a bit more depth there, especially since the setup is intriguing. The pacing is also slower, particularly in the middle, which matches the tone but may feel drawn out if you’re craving momentum.
Still, this book knows exactly what it’s trying to be and it succeeds at that. It’s comforting, emotionally sincere, and quietly romantic. It’s about survival, kindness, and choosing connection in a dangerous world.
February 10, 2026
Selah and Storm are perfect! They work together great and while it is a slow burn they still have many moments of showing their love for each other and how to exist functionally. And I really wanna see them with some littles running around in the gardens.
Most of the book was the development of their relationship and bond while figuring out how to navigate Storm taking over his kingdom. There was some fighting, especially in the end that felt a little quick but I did enjoy the dragons going at it and the elves having their moments of conflict.
Honestly I wish more was revealed about Selah's lost memories because there's still some gaps we didn't get but Storm was so nice and loving when a memory would hit her. The knocked her done sometimes but he was a good lifeline.
I need to read more of Elisa's books in this world because I like the side characters too and want to see if they find mates or what else they get up to.
Most of the book was the development of their relationship and bond while figuring out how to navigate Storm taking over his kingdom. There was some fighting, especially in the end that felt a little quick but I did enjoy the dragons going at it and the elves having their moments of conflict.
Honestly I wish more was revealed about Selah's lost memories because there's still some gaps we didn't get but Storm was so nice and loving when a memory would hit her. The knocked her done sometimes but he was a good lifeline.
I need to read more of Elisa's books in this world because I like the side characters too and want to see if they find mates or what else they get up to.
January 29, 2026
This book is so sweet and cozy and tense at the same time. I loved Beggar (the dog). Rae’s description of him made it feel like I could see him, and really set the scene for the vivid imagery to come. The way Storm interacted with Beggar made me think of those reels where you see dads who say they didn’t want a pet suddenly being best friends with said pet, and I am here for it. The way Storm and Selah interacted was so sweet, and although Storm tries to act tough and aloof, you can tell he really cares about her. I love how caring Selah is, even willing to put herself in danger to help others. My only complaint is I wish a few things had gone a little more in-depth (character backgrounds), but overall I truly enjoyed this story. If you enjoy hopeful, cozy romantasies, then you need to read this.
February 10, 2026
This is Book 1 in Elise's new series - Dragons of Reverie and it's so good!
I absolutely adore Elisa's writing so I knew what I was letting myself in for and was definitely not disappointed.
The story essentially follows a Dragon Shifter called Storm and a Fae called Selah who are thrown together by a touch of fate and some nasty kidnappers!
I adores both Storm and Selah, there is this strange and new connection between the pair after Selah heals Storm and it was so slowly to see this little connection ember eventually catch light!
What surprised me was the fact this book is actually connected to Elisa's other books - she's building an entire world with new places and new characters to compliment to old ones! Love this!
I always enjoy Elisa's story and writing and Dragon Captive was no different! Can't wait to see what happens next!
I absolutely adore Elisa's writing so I knew what I was letting myself in for and was definitely not disappointed.
The story essentially follows a Dragon Shifter called Storm and a Fae called Selah who are thrown together by a touch of fate and some nasty kidnappers!
I adores both Storm and Selah, there is this strange and new connection between the pair after Selah heals Storm and it was so slowly to see this little connection ember eventually catch light!
What surprised me was the fact this book is actually connected to Elisa's other books - she's building an entire world with new places and new characters to compliment to old ones! Love this!
I always enjoy Elisa's story and writing and Dragon Captive was no different! Can't wait to see what happens next!
November 8, 2025
💚LOVE how this author doesnt beat around the bush with the love story.
However, just when you think the story will turn one way it goes another. 💚LOVE it!!!! The chemistry, mystery lots of it, adventure, and bouncy critters this story has something for everyone.
Selah and Storm really needed each other. Storm needed someone to bring him back down to earth pun intended due to him being a dragon🤣 and Selah needed someone to trust. She really had a lot going on in her past and it grounded Storm in a way that well I won't spoil.
Highly recommend
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author and was not obligated to like or dislike it. I am saying this in accordance to Federal Guidelines about Advertising.
However, just when you think the story will turn one way it goes another. 💚LOVE it!!!! The chemistry, mystery lots of it, adventure, and bouncy critters this story has something for everyone.
Selah and Storm really needed each other. Storm needed someone to bring him back down to earth pun intended due to him being a dragon🤣 and Selah needed someone to trust. She really had a lot going on in her past and it grounded Storm in a way that well I won't spoil.
Highly recommend
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author and was not obligated to like or dislike it. I am saying this in accordance to Federal Guidelines about Advertising.
November 23, 2025
I thought there would be some secret about the dog really being some magical creature, but he was just a dog!
I would have liked to get more info about her lost memories after she got them back. She was just processing her grief but we didn't get a good look at how the twilight elves were so twisted. it was a lot crazy that the twilight queen didn't know anything that was going on for such a long time.
I was disappointed that the bad prince didn't die from the dragon King's fire. That was out there after they spent so much time dwelling on how she needed to marry him to get immunity to dragon fire.
I would have liked to get more info about her lost memories after she got them back. She was just processing her grief but we didn't get a good look at how the twilight elves were so twisted. it was a lot crazy that the twilight queen didn't know anything that was going on for such a long time.
I was disappointed that the bad prince didn't die from the dragon King's fire. That was out there after they spent so much time dwelling on how she needed to marry him to get immunity to dragon fire.
October 29, 2025
enjoyable!
I truly enjoyed this novel! I actually did not realize it was connected to Elisa Rae’s other novels, until I read another review (I did recognize the characters once I got to that point).
What I loved, was though the love between the two main characters may be fast for some, I honestly say it’s is one of my favorites. Especially when you consider “magic” being in the mix. Storm was sweet and understanding, helpful, and kind.
Thank you Elisa for your beautiful clean fantasy!
I truly enjoyed this novel! I actually did not realize it was connected to Elisa Rae’s other novels, until I read another review (I did recognize the characters once I got to that point).
What I loved, was though the love between the two main characters may be fast for some, I honestly say it’s is one of my favorites. Especially when you consider “magic” being in the mix. Storm was sweet and understanding, helpful, and kind.
Thank you Elisa for your beautiful clean fantasy!
December 11, 2025
DNF @ 51%
The plot was there, but the character personalities were lacking. I still don’t know who Selah is at this point and she’ll probably spend the rest of the book figuring it out. Her relationship with the dragon was too fast, and she just seems to go with the flow. The mind talking with each other was really neat, it just felt lackluster. Even the dragon’s personality was lacking, the only clear part of him was protectiveness. I just didn’t see a point finishing a story where I didn’t care about the characters.
The plot was there, but the character personalities were lacking. I still don’t know who Selah is at this point and she’ll probably spend the rest of the book figuring it out. Her relationship with the dragon was too fast, and she just seems to go with the flow. The mind talking with each other was really neat, it just felt lackluster. Even the dragon’s personality was lacking, the only clear part of him was protectiveness. I just didn’t see a point finishing a story where I didn’t care about the characters.
January 28, 2026
Storm is a noble dragon shifter trapped in his dragon form by a deadly Unseelie conspiracy. Mercenaries want his scales, and they’ve kidnapped an elven mindhealer, to break his mind. Instead, she chooses to save him.
And then there's Beggar the dog who's the goodest boy ever. He refuses to leave Storm's side even when things look fatal.
Read this one for a mix of high stakes survival, noblebright fantasy, and a slow burn romance with a telepathic bond.
Oh and the dog!!!! Because he's the goodest boy ever!
And then there's Beggar the dog who's the goodest boy ever. He refuses to leave Storm's side even when things look fatal.
Read this one for a mix of high stakes survival, noblebright fantasy, and a slow burn romance with a telepathic bond.
Oh and the dog!!!! Because he's the goodest boy ever!
February 8, 2026
This was an enjoyable read with dual POVs, banter, some high stakes moments and lessons in healing oneself mentally/emotionally. Despite some of the high stakes moments and heavy themes, the story still ended up feeling like a cozy read. I found myself looking forward to snuggling up at night with my book and continuing the story.
*Disclaimer*
I received this copy for free as part of a book tour. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Elisa Ray and Hidden Hollow Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book.
*Disclaimer*
I received this copy for free as part of a book tour. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Elisa Ray and Hidden Hollow Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 21, 2026
Captive Dragon by Elisa Rae is just such a delightful, cozy yet intense fantasy romance that I didn’t think I would enjoy it as much as I did. Storm is just the right kind of alpha hero who isn’t too alpha, and Selah’s passionate and vulnerable presence is just what he needs. The forced proximity and road trip situation makes the slow-burn romance between them feel so organic and genuine. It is so noblebright and emotional and full of sweet moments. If you are a fan of dragon shifters and kickass heroines, you absolutely need to add this to your TBR!
October 30, 2025
Fun Story!
This was a great, fast paced, easy read that I really enjoyed. I really like Elisa Rae’s style and again, pacing. Sometimes you just need a story that doesn’t take all the time to let you get to know the characters individually, the world they live in, the politics - you just want a good romance with some adventure. This is it. Looking forward to the next one! I would definitely recommend this or any of her other stories.
This was a great, fast paced, easy read that I really enjoyed. I really like Elisa Rae’s style and again, pacing. Sometimes you just need a story that doesn’t take all the time to let you get to know the characters individually, the world they live in, the politics - you just want a good romance with some adventure. This is it. Looking forward to the next one! I would definitely recommend this or any of her other stories.
February 11, 2026
I've been in my clean fantasy period lately, and if we add Elisa Rae's pen, we can't help but be enchanted by this story that I loved even though I hadn't read her other works before... I have to catch up, but I really enjoyed it, I read it in two days because I couldn't put it down. I even took my Kindle with me when I went to the hospital. The love between the two protagonists isn't a slow burn, but how much I loved it... I loved Storm, so understanding and kind... Adored. Rating 5 ⭐
October 24, 2025
I have very much enjoyed all of the authors books and this one is no exception.
Some adventure, politics, romance (no spice- thank you!) and cool dragons, as well as characters from previous books popping in to say hello.
Thank you to the author and I look forward to reading more in from her.
Some adventure, politics, romance (no spice- thank you!) and cool dragons, as well as characters from previous books popping in to say hello.
Thank you to the author and I look forward to reading more in from her.
November 6, 2025
A wonderful story
I enjoyed Storm and Selah’s story of healing, trusting, and protecting. There were a few spots where the words in a sentence were all mixed up, and it was a bit jarring to stop and figure out what it was trying to say. Once through those spots, though, I was happily engaged in the story.
I enjoyed Storm and Selah’s story of healing, trusting, and protecting. There were a few spots where the words in a sentence were all mixed up, and it was a bit jarring to stop and figure out what it was trying to say. Once through those spots, though, I was happily engaged in the story.
December 4, 2025
Poorly edited
PoV seems to change willy nilly despite having sections dedicated to either of the protagonists. Plot holes are left without being filled. Story would have benefited from a good editor. I liked the storyline well enough to finish, but wouldn’t recommend this to a friend.
PoV seems to change willy nilly despite having sections dedicated to either of the protagonists. Plot holes are left without being filled. Story would have benefited from a good editor. I liked the storyline well enough to finish, but wouldn’t recommend this to a friend.
November 24, 2025
Queens come in all sizes
Another great tale with dragons, shadow and twilight elves. Watching Storm and Selah work through her past and build a relationship while saving a kingdom kept me glued to the pages!
Another great tale with dragons, shadow and twilight elves. Watching Storm and Selah work through her past and build a relationship while saving a kingdom kept me glued to the pages!
January 3, 2026
This was full of adventure and magical secrets. Storm has been attacked, and with the company of a dog and an elf healer, he works to figure out what to do next. Finding out where the healer came from was no surprise in the realm, but he worked to figure out a way to make their lives better.
February 8, 2026
This book was so sweet and engaging. The romance was beautiful, absolutely loved Storm and Selah's dynamic. This is a great Romantasy to pick up when you want an endearing story with relaxed world building and memorable characters.
March 3, 2026
I read CAPTIVE DRAGON by Elisa Rae for a review tour hosted by the author and Hidden Hollow Book Tours. Thank you to both for inviting me along and for the gifted book.
I am so glad I read this book. The story of Selah and Storm is exactly what I needed when I read it. Storm is an alpha/cinnamon roll dragon shifter. Selah is the warrior elf sent to slay him.
I have found another new-to-me genre. I have never heard of noblebright fantasy before. I love the hopeful undertone of the whole story. Things do look bleak at times. Certainly Selah's past leaves one with very little hope for her future. Yet, there is a spark, especially after she encounters the dragon shifter she is supposed to unalive. I love good vs evil stories. This is a good one.
There's still action and drama. There's a physical journey that is intense. It's these things that keep the story moving and give the push and pull between the MCs. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for book 2!
I definitely recommend CAPTIVE DRAGON to fans of found family, noblebright fantasy romance, cinnamon roll MMC, feisty heroine, he falls first, dragon shifters, and good vs evil.
I am so glad I read this book. The story of Selah and Storm is exactly what I needed when I read it. Storm is an alpha/cinnamon roll dragon shifter. Selah is the warrior elf sent to slay him.
I have found another new-to-me genre. I have never heard of noblebright fantasy before. I love the hopeful undertone of the whole story. Things do look bleak at times. Certainly Selah's past leaves one with very little hope for her future. Yet, there is a spark, especially after she encounters the dragon shifter she is supposed to unalive. I love good vs evil stories. This is a good one.
There's still action and drama. There's a physical journey that is intense. It's these things that keep the story moving and give the push and pull between the MCs. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for book 2!
I definitely recommend CAPTIVE DRAGON to fans of found family, noblebright fantasy romance, cinnamon roll MMC, feisty heroine, he falls first, dragon shifters, and good vs evil.
April 28, 2026
Great story
The story moves along well. I love Elisa's writing. The different fantasy folk are lively and multidimensional. The plot is interesting without getting confusing. It's long enough to be satisfying. Definitely 5 stars!
The story moves along well. I love Elisa's writing. The different fantasy folk are lively and multidimensional. The plot is interesting without getting confusing. It's long enough to be satisfying. Definitely 5 stars!
November 22, 2025
Well enough writen not for me
Decent story and characters but right now too heavy for me right now. Maybe another time I will continue the books.
Decent story and characters but right now too heavy for me right now. Maybe another time I will continue the books.
December 5, 2025
It's sweet, but she's a bit too broken to be believable. He doesn't have a ton of personality either, mostly just growly and protective.
December 28, 2025
Some of the plot points were a bit muddled and hard to follow in comparison to her other works, but still an enjoyable read. And it was nice to have Marlon, Casimir, and Illeron play a part.
February 11, 2026
Thank you HHBT and the author for the gifted copy! This does not affect my honest review and all words are my own.
This was a fascinating read, definitely different than what I typically read in terms of the world building. I wish I had known that this author has other books set in this world because I think that would’ve enhanced the story. This can be read alone but there is crossover with characters and they’re introduced like you’d heard of them before.
I really enjoyed the character arc that Storm had because he went from somewhat uncaring and standoffish to a big ole softie for Selah. I also like how strong Selah was as a character as she took everything that was thrown at her in her stride. She’s certainly admirable!
The primarily plot line I enjoyed was that Selah had a memory block and was constantly battling it to discover who she had been in the past as she was trying to become someone new with Storm.
While this did have a bit of action, their love story definitely felt cozy and comfortable. A perfect read this winter!!
“𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵,” 𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥, “𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦.”
This was a fascinating read, definitely different than what I typically read in terms of the world building. I wish I had known that this author has other books set in this world because I think that would’ve enhanced the story. This can be read alone but there is crossover with characters and they’re introduced like you’d heard of them before.
I really enjoyed the character arc that Storm had because he went from somewhat uncaring and standoffish to a big ole softie for Selah. I also like how strong Selah was as a character as she took everything that was thrown at her in her stride. She’s certainly admirable!
The primarily plot line I enjoyed was that Selah had a memory block and was constantly battling it to discover who she had been in the past as she was trying to become someone new with Storm.
While this did have a bit of action, their love story definitely felt cozy and comfortable. A perfect read this winter!!
“𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵,” 𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥, “𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦.”
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews