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Hillcrest Hollow Shifters #1
Bound to the Dragon
Inheriting a sprawling picturesque farm in a cozy small town is probably everyone’s secret dream. When it happens to me, my life gets turned upside down.
Rosemary
My father’s will stipulates I have live to there for a year if I want to inherit his millions too. The place is a fire trap, ready to collapse at the slightest breeze. Then the dreams start. A voice calling to me, seducing me, whispering in my sleep.
Nothing is what it seems in Hillcrest Hollow, I expect more dreams, but then a rainstorm brings a stranger to my doorstep. A naked stranger. It is then that the seduction truly starts and I find myself bound to a dragon.
Chardum
For twenty-six years I was trapped beneath rubble. My only anchor the faintest touch of my soulmate’s mind against mine. Suddenly she’s here, next to my prison, on my land. I will do whatever it takes to get her to free me, and then I will seduce her until she will never want to leave.
My Rosy does not know the truth about her father, or this land, she does not know the peril she’s in. I am Chardum the Destroyer, a mighty dragon, and I will teach her all she needs to master her powers and her inheritance.
I will claim her heart and soul. Protect her with my dying breath from the evil that seeks to destroy us all.
Rosemary
My father’s will stipulates I have live to there for a year if I want to inherit his millions too. The place is a fire trap, ready to collapse at the slightest breeze. Then the dreams start. A voice calling to me, seducing me, whispering in my sleep.
Nothing is what it seems in Hillcrest Hollow, I expect more dreams, but then a rainstorm brings a stranger to my doorstep. A naked stranger. It is then that the seduction truly starts and I find myself bound to a dragon.
Chardum
For twenty-six years I was trapped beneath rubble. My only anchor the faintest touch of my soulmate’s mind against mine. Suddenly she’s here, next to my prison, on my land. I will do whatever it takes to get her to free me, and then I will seduce her until she will never want to leave.
My Rosy does not know the truth about her father, or this land, she does not know the peril she’s in. I am Chardum the Destroyer, a mighty dragon, and I will teach her all she needs to master her powers and her inheritance.
I will claim her heart and soul. Protect her with my dying breath from the evil that seeks to destroy us all.
129 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
88 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
Vala Stone
7 books22 followersVala Stone is a passionate storyteller who weaves together romance and the supernatural in her enthralling paranormal romance novels. When she’s not writing, she enjoys crocheting and binge-watching her favorite shows like Supernatural. Vala lives in a quaint, little town with her loving family and a mischievous tortoise cat, whom she adopted as a stray.
You can check out her website: https://www.valastone.ink
Or find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valastoneaut...
You can check out her website: https://www.valastone.ink
Or find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valastoneaut...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
February 27, 2025
It is what it is, and it isn't good. But the cover is cute.
November 15, 2024
⭐️ 3.5
'This was who I was born to be, where I'd always been meant to end up. I had found my home, my purpose, and my identity.'
Thank you to BookSirens and Vala Stone for this eArc in exchange for an honest review!
I'll be honest, I was hesitant to read this. I don't usually go for shorter stories, let alone any kind of paranormal/mythical romance. Let me be one to say, I'm glad I did. Cute, quick-paced, and quick-witted snark; this is perfect for anyone looking for fast romance.
Excited to see where this series goes!!
'This was who I was born to be, where I'd always been meant to end up. I had found my home, my purpose, and my identity.'
Thank you to BookSirens and Vala Stone for this eArc in exchange for an honest review!
I'll be honest, I was hesitant to read this. I don't usually go for shorter stories, let alone any kind of paranormal/mythical romance. Let me be one to say, I'm glad I did. Cute, quick-paced, and quick-witted snark; this is perfect for anyone looking for fast romance.
Excited to see where this series goes!!
September 3, 2025
This was an okay novella, but it wasn't super exciting.
I think, as a full length story, it would've had way more time to properly develop the romance and give the lore time to breathe. As it stands, it felt like insta love where the characters were talking about eternity having met each other like a week prior and several convos had between Chardum and Rosy felt a bit like reading a textbook. The backstory on the town was interesting, but it was packed in because the novella was so limited in time.
I didn't super feel like we had time to get to know Rosy. Char was pretty straightforward as a character. He pretty much only had 2 modes: be near Rosy and fight. There wasn't a ton of his backstory given. I also got a bit confused on the true difference between his bond with Rosy's father and his bond with Rosy. Truthfully, I was confused for a bit as to whether that meant and he and her father were more than friends. The clarification on that came pretty late in the story.
A lot of the action felt like telling, not showing despite the characters literally being present in the scene.
This was one of those books where a ton of creatures were present. Werewolves, weretigers, nymphs, dragons, vampires, and even minotaurs. That aspect would've been so interesting to see explored considering Rosy was new to the existence of all of this if this story had more time. She seems to only leave the house once and we don't get much time with her learning about all that exists.
So, it's not a super big recommend from me. If you're looking for a fantasy story starring a Black female lead (and you zipped through all of Kimberly Lemming's works) it might be a cute read. Not super fleshed out due to the length, but pretty cute.
I think, as a full length story, it would've had way more time to properly develop the romance and give the lore time to breathe. As it stands, it felt like insta love where the characters were talking about eternity having met each other like a week prior and several convos had between Chardum and Rosy felt a bit like reading a textbook. The backstory on the town was interesting, but it was packed in because the novella was so limited in time.
I didn't super feel like we had time to get to know Rosy. Char was pretty straightforward as a character. He pretty much only had 2 modes: be near Rosy and fight. There wasn't a ton of his backstory given. I also got a bit confused on the true difference between his bond with Rosy's father and his bond with Rosy. Truthfully, I was confused for a bit as to whether that meant and he and her father were more than friends. The clarification on that came pretty late in the story.
A lot of the action felt like telling, not showing despite the characters literally being present in the scene.
This was one of those books where a ton of creatures were present. Werewolves, weretigers, nymphs, dragons, vampires, and even minotaurs. That aspect would've been so interesting to see explored considering Rosy was new to the existence of all of this if this story had more time. She seems to only leave the house once and we don't get much time with her learning about all that exists.
So, it's not a super big recommend from me. If you're looking for a fantasy story starring a Black female lead (and you zipped through all of Kimberly Lemming's works) it might be a cute read. Not super fleshed out due to the length, but pretty cute.
December 4, 2024
Rosemary has just inherited a farm and fortune from a father she never met but about whom her mother told fantastical stories; the only catch is she must live in the long neglected farmhouse for a minimum of one continuous year or forfeit everything.
Char is a dragon shifter who fought alongside Rosemary’s not human father to guard an imprisoned ancient evil which would cause mass casualties, death, and destruction if ever unleashed. Char has been buried and imprisoned beneath massive boulders for twenty six years, when Rosemary’s father’s connection to him was severed in battle.
When Rosemary enters the dilapidated home, Char is able to communicate with her because she’s his fated mate, and not entirely human. Char persuades Rosemary to remove one of the boulders keeping him shackled. As the pair work to restore the home and surroundings, threats from outside must be dealt with.
This was a very imaginative, spicy, and action packed story that held my attention from the beginning. While not a long read, it’s filled with content and great world building.
I was generously furnished an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Char is a dragon shifter who fought alongside Rosemary’s not human father to guard an imprisoned ancient evil which would cause mass casualties, death, and destruction if ever unleashed. Char has been buried and imprisoned beneath massive boulders for twenty six years, when Rosemary’s father’s connection to him was severed in battle.
When Rosemary enters the dilapidated home, Char is able to communicate with her because she’s his fated mate, and not entirely human. Char persuades Rosemary to remove one of the boulders keeping him shackled. As the pair work to restore the home and surroundings, threats from outside must be dealt with.
This was a very imaginative, spicy, and action packed story that held my attention from the beginning. While not a long read, it’s filled with content and great world building.
I was generously furnished an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m sharing my honest review.
December 13, 2024
Rosy moves to her father's rundown farmhouse after he stipulates in his will that she can only relieve her inheritance if she lives there a year. She can make due with the repairs of the building, but it's the voice beckoning her into the yard at night that scares her. When she sleepily released Chardum the Destroyer from his earthly prison, she gets more than she bargained for. He has been waiting for his fated mate for a long time, and Rosy is his other half. Together, they must revitalize the land and ward off enemies to protect the supernatural prison and bring prosperity back.
A cute novella filled with shifters, a golden retriever dragon guardian, and the sassy nymph destined to be his partner. I like how Rosy took one look at Chardum and decided she was all in with his muddy self. Honestly, who would be able to resist? He's hell-bent on protecting her and really gets his chance to shine. Their bond was adorable, and there was definitely some good chemistry! Love a nice size difference/"will it fit?" moment, and this one did not miss the mark!
A cute novella filled with shifters, a golden retriever dragon guardian, and the sassy nymph destined to be his partner. I like how Rosy took one look at Chardum and decided she was all in with his muddy self. Honestly, who would be able to resist? He's hell-bent on protecting her and really gets his chance to shine. Their bond was adorable, and there was definitely some good chemistry! Love a nice size difference/"will it fit?" moment, and this one did not miss the mark!
July 27, 2025
3.2/5
Our FMC was left a fortune and a grand but dilapidated old farm house by her absent father upon his death. The catch? it hides a great evil that she and her rescued dragon mate must protect.
It was fine. Very cozy and sweet. I would have liked more angst but it was good. A comfort read.
Monster (dragon) MMC. FMC BIPOC, 26, orphaned, never knew her dad. Immortal thousand year old MMC. Fated mates. External threat. No cheating. No breakup. No virgins. No OMD/OWD. She rescues him, he rescues her.
Our FMC was left a fortune and a grand but dilapidated old farm house by her absent father upon his death. The catch? it hides a great evil that she and her rescued dragon mate must protect.
It was fine. Very cozy and sweet. I would have liked more angst but it was good. A comfort read.
Monster (dragon) MMC. FMC BIPOC, 26, orphaned, never knew her dad. Immortal thousand year old MMC. Fated mates. External threat. No cheating. No breakup. No virgins. No OMD/OWD. She rescues him, he rescues her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2025
Plot 2 Spice 1.25
Paranormal Romance, Dual 1st POV, Instalust, Fated Mates, Age Gap (26 y/o FMC, 1000+ MMC), Dad’s Best Friend, Dragon Shifter MMC, Half Human Half Nymph Black FMC, No 3rd Act Breakup, Epilogue Babies
Pros
Free on Stuff Your Kindle Day
Cozy vibes
MMC so down bad
It was cute how they fixed the house up together
Cons
Instalust
Why is it necessary to have multiple references to her needing to get a shotgun?!?
Dragons don’t have paws.
“One [man in his] late 30s but dashingly handsome” **and** The conjunction the author is looking for is AND. But is insulting, as if being in his late 30s somehow precludes him from being attractive.
Listen, I get that the woman vampire is the bad guy, but can we stop referring to her as a b!tch?
Why is this man always walking around with his pants unbuttoned 🧐
The spice - yikes, not good
Poor grammar, stilted phrasing, & awkward sentence structures. Tons of word repetition. The writing voice is simple. At first that just made it feel like an easy read, but coupled with all the grammatical and phrasing issues, it reads very juvenile, sometimes raunchy. It’s certainly not the worst writing I’ve ever read, but I wouldn’t call it good either.
The BIPOC characters written by a white author - some things seemed…insensitive?
Describing cleaning off the injured, unconscious stranger in her house as “erotic” and his body as “s3xy” was so icky. He was literally passed out cold, bleeding, and she just met him. She really thought it was appropriate to be objectifying him?
The whole age gap (no 26 is not “mature” compared to a 1,000+ yr old), best friend-bonded-to-her-father-but-now-fated-mates-bonded-to-her gave me the ick in a real way.
A platonic best friend bond that shifted to his BABY daughter but became a fated mate bond? Ew. And when he compares her to her father? Double Ew. And then they have 🌶️ time in her room, which out of all the bedrooms in the house was, of course, her father’s old room?!? And then she thanked her father after her O!?!?
So many plot holes. So many loose ends. So many unanswered questions - what was the deal with her dad? Where did he go? When did he die? Why didn’t he rescue Char? Why did he bury Char? Why didn’t he ever visit Rosy if he was allowed to travel since that is how he met her mother in the first place? Did the vampire escape? What happened with her?
Conclusion: Pass. The only reason I kept reading was to find out more about her father’s disappearance, but it was never addressed.
Paranormal Romance, Dual 1st POV, Instalust, Fated Mates, Age Gap (26 y/o FMC, 1000+ MMC), Dad’s Best Friend, Dragon Shifter MMC, Half Human Half Nymph Black FMC, No 3rd Act Breakup, Epilogue Babies
Pros
Free on Stuff Your Kindle Day
Cozy vibes
MMC so down bad
It was cute how they fixed the house up together
Cons
Instalust
Why is it necessary to have multiple references to her needing to get a shotgun?!?
Dragons don’t have paws.
“One [man in his] late 30s but dashingly handsome” **and** The conjunction the author is looking for is AND. But is insulting, as if being in his late 30s somehow precludes him from being attractive.
Listen, I get that the woman vampire is the bad guy, but can we stop referring to her as a b!tch?
Why is this man always walking around with his pants unbuttoned 🧐
The spice - yikes, not good
Poor grammar, stilted phrasing, & awkward sentence structures. Tons of word repetition. The writing voice is simple. At first that just made it feel like an easy read, but coupled with all the grammatical and phrasing issues, it reads very juvenile, sometimes raunchy. It’s certainly not the worst writing I’ve ever read, but I wouldn’t call it good either.
The BIPOC characters written by a white author - some things seemed…insensitive?
Describing cleaning off the injured, unconscious stranger in her house as “erotic” and his body as “s3xy” was so icky. He was literally passed out cold, bleeding, and she just met him. She really thought it was appropriate to be objectifying him?
The whole age gap (no 26 is not “mature” compared to a 1,000+ yr old), best friend-bonded-to-her-father-but-now-fated-mates-bonded-to-her gave me the ick in a real way.
A platonic best friend bond that shifted to his BABY daughter but became a fated mate bond? Ew. And when he compares her to her father? Double Ew. And then they have 🌶️ time in her room, which out of all the bedrooms in the house was, of course, her father’s old room?!? And then she thanked her father after her O!?!?
So many plot holes. So many loose ends. So many unanswered questions - what was the deal with her dad? Where did he go? When did he die? Why didn’t he rescue Char? Why did he bury Char? Why didn’t he ever visit Rosy if he was allowed to travel since that is how he met her mother in the first place? Did the vampire escape? What happened with her?
Conclusion: Pass. The only reason I kept reading was to find out more about her father’s disappearance, but it was never addressed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
Title: Bound To The Dragon
Author: Val’s Stone
Synopsis: Inheriting a sprawling picturesque farm in a cozy small town is probably everyone’s secret dream. When it happens to me, my life gets turned upside down.
Rosemary
My father’s will stipulates I have live to there for a year if I want to inherit his millions too. The place is a fire trap, ready to collapse at the slightest breeze. Then the dreams start. A voice calling to me, seducing me, whispering in my sleep.
Nothing is what it seems in Hillcrest Hollow, I expect more dreams, but then a rainstorm brings a stranger to my doorstep. A naked stranger. It is then that the seduction truly starts and I find myself bound to a dragon.
Chardum
For twenty-six years I was trapped beneath rubble. My only anchor the faintest touch of my soulmate’s mind against mine. Suddenly she’s here, next to my prison, on my land. I will do whatever it takes to get her to free me, and then I will seduce her until she will never want to leave.
My Rosy does not know the truth about her father, or this land, she does not know the peril she’s in. I am Chardum the Destroyer, a mighty dragon, and I will teach her all she needs to master her powers and her inheritance.
I will claim her heart and soul. Protect her with my dying breath from the evil that seeks to destroy us all.
Review: I would love to first personally thank BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book! I’m so happy I discovered this quick but cute story! The characters were witty and fast pace! I loved that Chardum was a gentleman and did not force himself onto Rosemary! I will admit I did have more questions by the end of the story which I hope will be answered in a future book! If you are looking for a quick and cozy paranormal romance this book is for you!
Author: Val’s Stone
Synopsis: Inheriting a sprawling picturesque farm in a cozy small town is probably everyone’s secret dream. When it happens to me, my life gets turned upside down.
Rosemary
My father’s will stipulates I have live to there for a year if I want to inherit his millions too. The place is a fire trap, ready to collapse at the slightest breeze. Then the dreams start. A voice calling to me, seducing me, whispering in my sleep.
Nothing is what it seems in Hillcrest Hollow, I expect more dreams, but then a rainstorm brings a stranger to my doorstep. A naked stranger. It is then that the seduction truly starts and I find myself bound to a dragon.
Chardum
For twenty-six years I was trapped beneath rubble. My only anchor the faintest touch of my soulmate’s mind against mine. Suddenly she’s here, next to my prison, on my land. I will do whatever it takes to get her to free me, and then I will seduce her until she will never want to leave.
My Rosy does not know the truth about her father, or this land, she does not know the peril she’s in. I am Chardum the Destroyer, a mighty dragon, and I will teach her all she needs to master her powers and her inheritance.
I will claim her heart and soul. Protect her with my dying breath from the evil that seeks to destroy us all.
Review: I would love to first personally thank BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book! I’m so happy I discovered this quick but cute story! The characters were witty and fast pace! I loved that Chardum was a gentleman and did not force himself onto Rosemary! I will admit I did have more questions by the end of the story which I hope will be answered in a future book! If you are looking for a quick and cozy paranormal romance this book is for you!
December 12, 2024
3.5 ★
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
i enjoyed this story. i found myself wanting to know what happens next. i laughed, i swooned, i empathized with the characters. a good short read.
things i liked:
- the plot
- the slow burn
- the fast paced writing
- how protective the mmc is of the fmc
- some of the mmc's actions and thoughts toward the fmc
- the characters. they're quick-witted and a lot are friendly.
- not too much filler. sometimes i hate beginnings of books because they can be filled with useless info that's hard to understand, but everything you read in this book has a reason and will start to make sense sooner than you think.
things i didn't like:
- the cover. everything about the cover looks great except the characters' lips. they're way too big.
- the spice. i ended up liking the tension way more than the main spice scenes. i just didn't like some of the words used which is a personal problem.
- the inner monologue gets carried away in some places and drags the story a bit. there was a part during an action scene where i zoned out because one of the mcs was going on a bit of a mental tangent. i found myself thinking: aren't we supposed to be fighting ?
- an action scene immediately after an intimate scene. these are my least favorite plot transitions. i would've liked it more if they had more time to relax with each other before fighting enemies.
i went into this book blind, but if you're interested in this book and you've read the synopsis, you probably already like fated mates and dragons. i'll list a few more things that might motivate you to read it more.
if you like these, then you might like this book:
- found family
- vampires or werewolves
- open door spice
- insta love
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
i enjoyed this story. i found myself wanting to know what happens next. i laughed, i swooned, i empathized with the characters. a good short read.
things i liked:
- the plot
- the slow burn
- the fast paced writing
- how protective the mmc is of the fmc
- some of the mmc's actions and thoughts toward the fmc
- the characters. they're quick-witted and a lot are friendly.
- not too much filler. sometimes i hate beginnings of books because they can be filled with useless info that's hard to understand, but everything you read in this book has a reason and will start to make sense sooner than you think.
things i didn't like:
- the cover. everything about the cover looks great except the characters' lips. they're way too big.
- the spice. i ended up liking the tension way more than the main spice scenes. i just didn't like some of the words used which is a personal problem.
- the inner monologue gets carried away in some places and drags the story a bit. there was a part during an action scene where i zoned out because one of the mcs was going on a bit of a mental tangent. i found myself thinking: aren't we supposed to be fighting ?
- an action scene immediately after an intimate scene. these are my least favorite plot transitions. i would've liked it more if they had more time to relax with each other before fighting enemies.
i went into this book blind, but if you're interested in this book and you've read the synopsis, you probably already like fated mates and dragons. i'll list a few more things that might motivate you to read it more.
if you like these, then you might like this book:
- found family
- vampires or werewolves
- open door spice
- insta love
November 16, 2024
A Time of Discovery . . .
Rosemary Foster’s father Zachary, whom she had never met, unexpectedly leaves a farm to her in his Will, with a stipulation that she must live in the decrepit, run-down farm for a year in order to receive the monetary part of the inheritance he held back. As she sleeps, she hears a voice calling in her mind and she follows it outside. She begins moving a pile of boulders out of the way and ultimately meets a dragon shifter, Chardum the Destroyer, who knew her father. He needs to tell her information she isn’t aware of, and teach her about her own earth nymph powers she had also been unaware of. Will she accept her soulmate? And as the sense of urgency increases, will they be ready to face the evil vampire lawyer representing the corporation that was trying to move in on Rosy’s land or the unidentified werewolf that may likely be coming for them? Vampire Miss Elie, even made a personal visit bringing several muscular men to “scare” Rosemary and try to threaten them off the land, but they were no match for the powerful dragon. More than ever, the two of them needed to remain vigilant and protect the land and what Chardum guards, and he takes his task seriously. But it’s not over yet. What will be challenging them soon, and will they still be able to prevail against it?
Rosemary Foster’s father Zachary, whom she had never met, unexpectedly leaves a farm to her in his Will, with a stipulation that she must live in the decrepit, run-down farm for a year in order to receive the monetary part of the inheritance he held back. As she sleeps, she hears a voice calling in her mind and she follows it outside. She begins moving a pile of boulders out of the way and ultimately meets a dragon shifter, Chardum the Destroyer, who knew her father. He needs to tell her information she isn’t aware of, and teach her about her own earth nymph powers she had also been unaware of. Will she accept her soulmate? And as the sense of urgency increases, will they be ready to face the evil vampire lawyer representing the corporation that was trying to move in on Rosy’s land or the unidentified werewolf that may likely be coming for them? Vampire Miss Elie, even made a personal visit bringing several muscular men to “scare” Rosemary and try to threaten them off the land, but they were no match for the powerful dragon. More than ever, the two of them needed to remain vigilant and protect the land and what Chardum guards, and he takes his task seriously. But it’s not over yet. What will be challenging them soon, and will they still be able to prevail against it?
November 13, 2024
Disclaimer:
This review for Bound to the Dragon which was previously posted for author Robin O’Connor in the Boundless Enchantment anthology, is being reposted after the story was republished under the author’s pseudonym Vala Stone.
After inheriting property from a father she’d never known MFC Rosemary’s surprise turns to shock when finally seeing the dilapidated farmhouse that is now hers.
With a stipulation that she has to live their for a year before the monetary portion of the inheritance will be dispersed, one can only wonder what adventures are awaiting our unsuspecting heroine?
When during her first night in the house a strange sexy male voice begins calling to Rosemary, and draws her outside to where it looks like a landslide had taken place she finds herself moving boulders she shouldn’t have the strength to.
What lay trapped beneath soon makes himself known, Chardum the Destroyer, dragon shifter and guardian of the lands. Rosemary is also his mate!
Lots of mystery, intrigue, magic, spice and secrets begin to unravel in this romantic paranormal that I loved for its lead characters and beautifully written story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This review for Bound to the Dragon which was previously posted for author Robin O’Connor in the Boundless Enchantment anthology, is being reposted after the story was republished under the author’s pseudonym Vala Stone.
After inheriting property from a father she’d never known MFC Rosemary’s surprise turns to shock when finally seeing the dilapidated farmhouse that is now hers.
With a stipulation that she has to live their for a year before the monetary portion of the inheritance will be dispersed, one can only wonder what adventures are awaiting our unsuspecting heroine?
When during her first night in the house a strange sexy male voice begins calling to Rosemary, and draws her outside to where it looks like a landslide had taken place she finds herself moving boulders she shouldn’t have the strength to.
What lay trapped beneath soon makes himself known, Chardum the Destroyer, dragon shifter and guardian of the lands. Rosemary is also his mate!
Lots of mystery, intrigue, magic, spice and secrets begin to unravel in this romantic paranormal that I loved for its lead characters and beautifully written story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2024
Rosemary (Rosy), the female lead, never knew her father - he disappeared when her mother was pregnant and she’s shocked to be called to a reading of the will and to find that she has been left a property and a significant sum of money if she stays on the property for a year. Arriving at her property, Rosy dreams a voice calls to her to release him and that a dragon emerges…
Chardum, the male dragon shifter lead, has been trapped for twenty six years. He knew Rosy was his soulmate; he just couldn’t get to her. Now released by Rosy’s powers, he shocked to realise how long he was trapped, that her father (his friend) is dead, how much the world has changed, and that Rosy not only doesn’t know how to use her powers but isn’t even aware she has them. And she needs to learn fast because they’re on this piece of land for a reason…
This novella is dual POV, well written, and fast-paced fantasy romance. I enjoyed Rosy’s openness to new experience and to others, and her willingness to adapt to her new situation. I enjoyed Chardum’s dedication, both to his cause and to Rosy. I enjoyed the relationship development.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Chardum, the male dragon shifter lead, has been trapped for twenty six years. He knew Rosy was his soulmate; he just couldn’t get to her. Now released by Rosy’s powers, he shocked to realise how long he was trapped, that her father (his friend) is dead, how much the world has changed, and that Rosy not only doesn’t know how to use her powers but isn’t even aware she has them. And she needs to learn fast because they’re on this piece of land for a reason…
This novella is dual POV, well written, and fast-paced fantasy romance. I enjoyed Rosy’s openness to new experience and to others, and her willingness to adapt to her new situation. I enjoyed Chardum’s dedication, both to his cause and to Rosy. I enjoyed the relationship development.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
June 27, 2025
"An Incredible Paranormal Romance series"
The first start of this series is awesome! This story is unique and so much fun to read. It has awesome and unique characters.
Rosemary aka Rosy is a spunky young woman. Just when she needs a change in her life. She gets contacted by a solicitor telling her she has an inheritance from her father. Rosemary had never known the man. Although her mother had told her wonderful strange stories about him. It seems she has inherited a farm outside a little town called Hillcrest Hollow. One thing to receive the whole inheritance. She must live on the farm for a year.
Of course the farm does not turn out the way the pictures show it. But this inheritance will change her life for ever! There she meets a strange and sexy man. Who says she is meant to be his.
Chardum is a sexy dragon shifter. He had been imprisoned under a mudslide till Rosy took over the farm. It seems he had been best friends with her Dad. He also informs her she is not fully human. As her father had been a nymph. And she is destined to be Chardum's mate. Plus they are destined to protect the town and the land around it!
You will love this exciting, funny, sweet, and scorching hot Monster Romance! This is a five star plus story.
The first start of this series is awesome! This story is unique and so much fun to read. It has awesome and unique characters.
Rosemary aka Rosy is a spunky young woman. Just when she needs a change in her life. She gets contacted by a solicitor telling her she has an inheritance from her father. Rosemary had never known the man. Although her mother had told her wonderful strange stories about him. It seems she has inherited a farm outside a little town called Hillcrest Hollow. One thing to receive the whole inheritance. She must live on the farm for a year.
Of course the farm does not turn out the way the pictures show it. But this inheritance will change her life for ever! There she meets a strange and sexy man. Who says she is meant to be his.
Chardum is a sexy dragon shifter. He had been imprisoned under a mudslide till Rosy took over the farm. It seems he had been best friends with her Dad. He also informs her she is not fully human. As her father had been a nymph. And she is destined to be Chardum's mate. Plus they are destined to protect the town and the land around it!
You will love this exciting, funny, sweet, and scorching hot Monster Romance! This is a five star plus story.
July 28, 2025
This was a quick, light, and easy read with medium spice hot enough to satisfy my thirst for steam. I liked the character development here particularly for the heroine, Rosemary, who came to her new hometown with no clue as to her magical heritage. It was enjoyable seeing her quickly warming up to her magical powers until she learned to fully embrace them. The romance between her and her dragon mate, Chardum, was what I would expect: sizzling hot, intense, and with a full-on touch-her-and-die level of commitment and protectiveness.
My only qualm about the story was that there were certain aspects of the plot that could have been dealt with in a more in-depth manner. For example, I would have liked to know more about Chardum's imprisonment, and the reasons for the battle that came before that. I would have liked a more thorough coverage of those particular events to get a fuller appreciation of what was happening at the characters' present time.
In spite of this, I still had a good time reading this book. I'm quite committed to these series now, and I look forward to its future installments.
I received a free review copy of this book.. I leave this review voluntarily.
My only qualm about the story was that there were certain aspects of the plot that could have been dealt with in a more in-depth manner. For example, I would have liked to know more about Chardum's imprisonment, and the reasons for the battle that came before that. I would have liked a more thorough coverage of those particular events to get a fuller appreciation of what was happening at the characters' present time.
In spite of this, I still had a good time reading this book. I'm quite committed to these series now, and I look forward to its future installments.
I received a free review copy of this book.. I leave this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2025
A Magical Start to a Promising New Series!
This paranormal romance about a dragon jester bound to protect the land completely captured my attention from the very beginning. The story unfolds in such a natural and engaging way, especially since the female main character starts off as completely unaware of what’s happening — which makes discovering the world alongside her such a joy.
The world-building is rich and imaginative, full of mystery and depth, and the characters are beautifully developed. The chemistry between the leads builds gradually and feels genuine, which fits perfectly with the unfolding magic and lore.
It’s a unique and refreshing take on the paranormal romance genre — both tender and full of adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and as the first book in the series, it’s a fantastic introduction.
I’ll definitely be reading the next installments — this world is far too enchanting to leave behind!I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This paranormal romance about a dragon jester bound to protect the land completely captured my attention from the very beginning. The story unfolds in such a natural and engaging way, especially since the female main character starts off as completely unaware of what’s happening — which makes discovering the world alongside her such a joy.
The world-building is rich and imaginative, full of mystery and depth, and the characters are beautifully developed. The chemistry between the leads builds gradually and feels genuine, which fits perfectly with the unfolding magic and lore.
It’s a unique and refreshing take on the paranormal romance genre — both tender and full of adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and as the first book in the series, it’s a fantastic introduction.
I’ll definitely be reading the next installments — this world is far too enchanting to leave behind!I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 2, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bound to the Dragon is a very cute paranormal novella with a fun mix of magic, shifters, and danger. I really enjoyed the worldbuilding here, dragons, nymph heritage, elemental powers, and a dark enemy working behind the scenes. The whole vibe felt whimsical but still had a storyline with actual stakes, which I appreciated.
The romance between the dragon shifter and the nymph heroine is sweet and easy to fall into. Their magic and personalities complement each other, and the small-town mystical setting added a nice cozy atmosphere. It definitely felt more complete and fleshed out than the holiday novella I read by the same author, and I enjoyed getting a fuller picture of the world.
My only critique is that a few sentences now and then threw off the flow a bit, but overall it didn’t take away from how enjoyable the story was. I liked the characters, the plot, and the magic system, and I would continue the series.
A solid 4 stars! Cute, fun, magical, and worth the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Bound to the Dragon is a very cute paranormal novella with a fun mix of magic, shifters, and danger. I really enjoyed the worldbuilding here, dragons, nymph heritage, elemental powers, and a dark enemy working behind the scenes. The whole vibe felt whimsical but still had a storyline with actual stakes, which I appreciated.
The romance between the dragon shifter and the nymph heroine is sweet and easy to fall into. Their magic and personalities complement each other, and the small-town mystical setting added a nice cozy atmosphere. It definitely felt more complete and fleshed out than the holiday novella I read by the same author, and I enjoyed getting a fuller picture of the world.
My only critique is that a few sentences now and then threw off the flow a bit, but overall it didn’t take away from how enjoyable the story was. I liked the characters, the plot, and the magic system, and I would continue the series.
A solid 4 stars! Cute, fun, magical, and worth the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 8, 2024
Thank you to BookSirens for the opportunity to read this ARC 🙏 ❤
Rosemary is feeling a lot of things when she finds out her estranged father passed away and left her his land and farmhouse. As she starts to get settled there, she means Chardum. A hot, for-some-reason-naked guy who winds up showing her what her true power is and bridging the gap on the knowledge of her dad.
5 stars because I love the plot and the story, but I do wish there was more to it! The story seemed a little hurried and moving too quick. I love a fast-paced story, but this one seemed a little choppy. Maybe I'm just greedy - I definitely would have loved more details! Even still, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rosemary is feeling a lot of things when she finds out her estranged father passed away and left her his land and farmhouse. As she starts to get settled there, she means Chardum. A hot, for-some-reason-naked guy who winds up showing her what her true power is and bridging the gap on the knowledge of her dad.
5 stars because I love the plot and the story, but I do wish there was more to it! The story seemed a little hurried and moving too quick. I love a fast-paced story, but this one seemed a little choppy. Maybe I'm just greedy - I definitely would have loved more details! Even still, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 24, 2024
Bound to the Dragon was an amazing start to the Hillcrest Hollow Shifters series. The set up is that Rosemary inherits her absentee father's property which sets off her journey of self discovery of her family's secrets and reexamining everything she knew about her childhood. But there is a larger plot that is only teased in this novella that only scratches at the surface of all the larger problems in the world. The chemistry between Chardum the Destroyer and Rosemary was hot and I do love a fated mate story where they can convey their spicy feelings mentally as well physically. The only thing that could have made this book better would be if it was longer. I don't want to wait for the next book to find out more about this world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 9, 2025
I had an appropriate level of fun with this. It was a very quick and easy read, something simple to get me back into the mood with the new year. I did struggle quite a bit in the beginning to get used to the writing as I found it a bit juvenile but once I accepted that and just settled into the characters it became quite enjoyable.
I think what I appreciated most about it was having such a simple story featuring a Black main character. I find it can be difficult to find little romance books like this that aren't about your typical y/n character which was really refreshing. I feel like this is the perfect book when you have a down day and you just want something fast and fun.
I'm extremely grateful that I was allowed to receive an eARC copy of this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I think what I appreciated most about it was having such a simple story featuring a Black main character. I find it can be difficult to find little romance books like this that aren't about your typical y/n character which was really refreshing. I feel like this is the perfect book when you have a down day and you just want something fast and fun.
I'm extremely grateful that I was allowed to receive an eARC copy of this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
February 13, 2025
Lovely short and cozy fantasy
Tropes
📚Shifter Romance
📚Cozy Fantasy
📚Fated Mates
📚BIPOC main characters
📚Found Family
📚Slow Burn
📚He falls first
I quite enjoyed this short cozy fantasy read.
It is somewhat slow going and slow burn but it picks up towards the end and the reading experience is sweet and happy.
Rosy is unaware of who she is and the power she possesses. She inherits a run down farm from the father she never knew. Without even realizing she frees Chardum, a dragon shifter who’s been trapped by a curse for 26 years.
He immediately recognizes they are bonded and helps her master her powers as well as learn about her mission and heritage.
Together and with some help from the shifter town people they fight off a great threat to the town and the world, all the while their love grows stronger.
I have received an ARC and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
Tropes
📚Shifter Romance
📚Cozy Fantasy
📚Fated Mates
📚BIPOC main characters
📚Found Family
📚Slow Burn
📚He falls first
I quite enjoyed this short cozy fantasy read.
It is somewhat slow going and slow burn but it picks up towards the end and the reading experience is sweet and happy.
Rosy is unaware of who she is and the power she possesses. She inherits a run down farm from the father she never knew. Without even realizing she frees Chardum, a dragon shifter who’s been trapped by a curse for 26 years.
He immediately recognizes they are bonded and helps her master her powers as well as learn about her mission and heritage.
Together and with some help from the shifter town people they fight off a great threat to the town and the world, all the while their love grows stronger.
I have received an ARC and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
June 22, 2025
This was an engaging and exciting story. Rosy doesn't have any clue magic and the supernatural are real even though her own father was a nymoh (and so is she). Chardum has his work cut out for him with educating her before the next wave of baddies comes to test their defenses. Oh, and training her is only part of his worries. These two are hilarious! The back and forth, self-talk and just their personalities work together to create 2 main characters that I genuinely admire and enjoyed every minute of their adventures. The overall message of the story is simple: good verses evil, but the creative and unique path Stone chose for them was vibrant and alive (much like the story's setting).
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book and highly recommend it to others (over 18 recommended). Reciew provided freely. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book and highly recommend it to others (over 18 recommended). Reciew provided freely. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
November 9, 2024
Absolutely loved this book, and what did I love about it, it was the fact that it held my attention. It was really interesting and so worthwhile reading. I loved the characters and most of the towns people. It really is worth reading its a feel good book with Chardum who is the defender of the property because something evil is trapped down below. I loved his character because despite been a dragon he is also partly a gentleman.
But its Rosemary who holds centre at this lovely story, she thinks she is human with a mother who raised her but she finds she has a father who left her the house, and she also finds out she isn't just a human shes much much more.
I am so pleased I got to read this story it really is a great read!!!
But its Rosemary who holds centre at this lovely story, she thinks she is human with a mother who raised her but she finds she has a father who left her the house, and she also finds out she isn't just a human shes much much more.
I am so pleased I got to read this story it really is a great read!!!
November 12, 2024
Rosemary has inherited a farmhouse from her father. The farmhouse, and the land was decrepit. She began to clean her home, to make it livable. She heard a voice call her name. Rosemary discovered that a dragon shifter has been buried under the rocks. The dragon shifter, introduced himself as Chardum the Destroyer. He explained that he, and her father were caretakers of the land. He helped her work the land, and repair the house. Chardum knew that Rosemary was his fated mate. Rosemary also met met Ms. Elie, she wants to buy her property. Rosemary refused to sell her property. She, and Chardum faced danger, magic, and vampires. I enjoyed reading this book! The storyline flowed well. There is a hea.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2025
Wow this book surprised me a lot, I wasn't expecting to find a story like this in so few pages. I loved Char and Rosy, and their connection. I feel like there were some things that could have been better explained, like his past, and more of her past before moving into the house, for example: what was her job? Why did she feel like she was always having to do favors for people? Things like that could have been explored more. The last pages of the book were the most confusing, I couldn't follow what was happening and only realized later on what the author had wanted to say. About the epilogue I liked it, I found it super cute and hope to hear more about them in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this story and the characters Rosy and Char. Rosy was a nymph and I haven't read many books with nymphs in them so that was fun and Char was a Dragon shifter. I enjoyed seeing how they grew closer as they fixed Rosy's inherited farm up while she was learning about her heritage and abilities. I enjoyed this book just as much as all the books published under this author's alter ego Robin O’Connor that I have read so far. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received a free ARC of this book when it was previously published in the Boundless Enchantment Anthology and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free ARC of this book when it was previously published in the Boundless Enchantment Anthology and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2024
Quite a bit of unanswered questions in this book which was a bit frustrating. But the main plot is a girl inheriting a plot of land from a father she had never met, then realizing she was an earth nymph and somehow released a dragon shifter that had known her father, found out about herself and her lineage, battled against evil people and then lived happily ever after. Would have been better if the story was longer and we actually get to find out what actually happened those years ago that trapped the dragon shifter and made her father disappear.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 7, 2024
When Rosy inherits a decrepit old farm, she has no idea that she's stepping into a world of magic, shifters and ancient evils. Her first night in the farm she dreams of a voice calling her to rescue him from his prison. The next day she finds herself face to face with a very-not-clothed, but handsome man with a distressingly familiar voice. At first she thinks he's a few fries short of a Happy Meal because not only is he claiming to be a dragon, he says she's got magic too.
Bound to the Dragon is a fun, spicy fated mates novella. My only quibble with the story is that to wish it was a just little longer so that we could have seen Rosy and Char interact and grow their relationship more.
Bound to the Dragon is a fun, spicy fated mates novella. My only quibble with the story is that to wish it was a just little longer so that we could have seen Rosy and Char interact and grow their relationship more.
June 2, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a novella, so expect instalove. Honestly, the synopsis spells out the majority of the plot, but I found myself liking and rooting for the characters, and interested in the welfare of the small town and its inhabitants in addition to the main characters. Seems a big bad is using a corporation to hide their nefarious plans, which feels like a trope in itself lately, but fighting against this company in different iterations seems likely to be the backbone of the series.
Overall, probably closer to 3.5 stars and I enjoyed it for the spicy, quick bite it is.
This is a novella, so expect instalove. Honestly, the synopsis spells out the majority of the plot, but I found myself liking and rooting for the characters, and interested in the welfare of the small town and its inhabitants in addition to the main characters. Seems a big bad is using a corporation to hide their nefarious plans, which feels like a trope in itself lately, but fighting against this company in different iterations seems likely to be the backbone of the series.
Overall, probably closer to 3.5 stars and I enjoyed it for the spicy, quick bite it is.
June 8, 2025
Thank you BookSirens, and Vala Stone for sending me this advanced review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a shorter book, but completely jam packed full of action! It is a bit trope heavy, but that isn't a bad thing. We have fated mates, age gap (1000+, with a 26 yr old), super powerful half human, and everything inbetween.
It was super fast paced, but there were little moments that gave us cozy breaks to take a breath. The slow burn romance was good, and the spice was very hot when it finally happened.
I also enjoyed the side characters, and I feel like we will be seeing some of them in future novellas.
This was a shorter book, but completely jam packed full of action! It is a bit trope heavy, but that isn't a bad thing. We have fated mates, age gap (1000+, with a 26 yr old), super powerful half human, and everything inbetween.
It was super fast paced, but there were little moments that gave us cozy breaks to take a breath. The slow burn romance was good, and the spice was very hot when it finally happened.
I also enjoyed the side characters, and I feel like we will be seeing some of them in future novellas.
June 27, 2025
Another great story by this author. I’m loving the series. I really felt I could put myself in the lead characters shoes well not shoes exactly as she was barefoot most of time. Like her I feel best when barefoot in nature and I wished that nymphs were real. Maybe they are who knows, just not visible to us that’s what I like to think about the supernatural. Could be wrong but it’s another reason for loving supernatural stories. I’d certainly recommend this book. And love the dragon I’m very partial to dragons. I loved this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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