Saved by the Water Dragon God

by Alex Perez, Rouge Fox (illustrator)

After being left for dead in the ocean by her abusive boyfriend, Liliana finds herself in Halinora, the lands of the alluring Water Dragon God, Nendori. But Nen’s decision to save her doesn’t come without consequence for both parties. If Liliana’s to get home, she and Nen must convene with the other Gods in the realms of divinity—though not all are so willing to aid the aloof Water Dragon God and his mortal pet. It doesn’t help that Nen is clearly hiding something, and Liliana’s return to Earth is anything but simple with people under the impression that she’s dead. Will she be able to sort out her thoughts while Halinora and Earth are full of complete and utter chaos?

Genres: Fantasy, Monster Romance

279 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2025

About the author

Alex is a mother who resides in Georgia with their young son. When they aren’t busy writing, they enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea while curling up with a good book (ideally with rain sounds in the background) and otome games.

Reviews

[Erika · Rating 4 out of 5]

The slooooww burn in here is worth it! 🥵😻😭🩷

[Erika | ErikasLiteraryLabryinth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book! This monster romance has it all, and I love a good dragon shifter. I really loved all the lore present in the book, and how it connects with the plot of the book. I really hope to see more of the different god characters in future books!

Liliana and Nen are the cutest couple ever! It was insta love which I’m not always in the mood for, but Nen’s innocence and how he protects his “Water Lily” is so endearing I’ll let it slide.

I will say, please check your triggers!! There is mention of SA and domestic violence (more told than shown thank goodness) by Liliana’s gross boyfriend Jason, as well as some gore and violence.

It’s mostly a really cute love story, but there is some trauma surrounding Liliana’s background. I look forward to reading the sequel!

[Alyssa Chin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet and spicy romantasy with a kind, resilient woman and the playful dragon god who saves her from death.

I really enjoyed this book! Easy to read and some very tender moments between MCs. I liked how their relationship evolved and the dynamic of their very opposite personalities. There was also some comedic moments when Nen didn't really understand some aspects of human life that made me giggle.

Low stakes, lovely character development, sweet romance, lush worldbuilding, he falls first, this book had all the right elements for a very fun read.

[Luna ꪆৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 🌟

Before I begin I want to thank the author, Alex Perez, for giving me this ARC.

Was I confused about what was going on the whole time? Yes. Did I enjoy it? YES. I really liked this. The characters and the fluffy-ness of everything were my favorite things about it. I still have no idea how the whole dragon thing works but I need more of it.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'll admit, I am not into the monster romance category of books.

When I applied for this book, I didn't know it was a monster romance, but then when I found out, I thought "hey I'll try something new." Yep, I'm not into it.

The tongue was interesting, but also, I don't want a reptilian tongue on me in my intimate areas. Things also got a lot more interesting when the dragon male parts came out to play. And I horrifically cringed when the tentacle (rod?) had "slug-like appendages that slithered all over her because that sounds awful.

HOWEVER, like I said, I'm not into the monster stuff. So if you are, this was a very cute and cozy monster read.

I did really LOVE the imagery! The author did a great job creating a vivid world and having me envision everything. I would love to read a more standard romantasy written by them. The story was also good, but I'm also less of a fan of cozy too, so I wanted a bit more action. It was so easy to read that I kept not wanting to set it down and I read it all in a day.

Read if you love:
-Cozy romance
-Monster romance
-Vivid worlds
-Escaping a domestic violence

Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. My thoughts are entirely my own.

[Samy Fay · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review
3.25⭐️’s

Saved by the Water Dragon King was a quick and simple fantasy read! The author did a beautiful job with world building and character descriptions. It was enjoyable to see all the different character personalities. The MMC was goofy and protective which played well together! It was refreshing to see the FMC come to a decision on her own without the pressure of the other characters.
At times I wish there was more showing throughout the plot rather than telling. I also found the story to be repetitive at times through the sequence of events that occur throughout. This book did have some well done spicy scenes! But I wish there was more of a conversation regarding their relationship and intimate scenes. I felt a disconnect because of this and i think that was what was missing for me to fully grasp their love for each other.

[Stephanie O · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️

This was such a fun read! The parallel worlds/gods were so interesting and well developed, but very straight forward to follow. I really enjoyed all the adventures and tasks the MCs had to embark on together that gave us a glimpse into all these different realms while they grew closer together.

I think Alex also does a great job of weaving in some harder themes all while keeping the overall vibe quite light and playful.

I love the banter between the MCs and how the MMC is the jokester who falls first. And falls very hard. Their chemistry is sweet and the spice is heated. Overall, really enjoyed this!!

[Vicki Stansfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This week, I finished reading Saved by the Water Dragon God by author Alex Perez, and I have to say, I was so sad to have finished it. The opening sees Nen, the Water Dragon God, save Lily after she 'falls' off a cruise ship, despite interfering with human lives and deaths being forbidden, and this is where their story starts.

I just loved Lily and Nen's story; the story of the dragon's history and the history of the Gods and their realms was so interesting and detailed. The exploration of both Nen's and Lily's past added depth to their characters, and my heart ached for each of them for what they'd lived through.

"My Water Lily" ..sigh.. I just melted for how Nen viewed, cared for, and protected Lily.

But will she stay or return to her life in the human realm? And what will be the cost to Nen for saving a human life? And what of the other Gods?

And the spice? Well, it was pretty damn spicy, AND...well, let's just say colour is VERY significant (if you know, you know!)
It absolutely made me giggle - there were a few extra delicious moments where my eyebrows flew up, and I'm sure I had a stupid grin on my face! Overall, this was just such a refreshingly fun read.

I was a little late to the game where Alex Perez' books are concerned, and I had added Bride to the Fox Demon to my Kindle and tbr list after hearing friends rave about it. After reading Saved by the Water Dragon, I wish I'd read Bride to the Fox Demon sooner!! Now I'm determined to catch up, read each and every book, and can't wait!! I'm an absolute fan!!

Also, I have to give a huge shout-out to artist Ana Soares for the STUNNING artwork in this book. It's so beautiful 😍😍

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saved by the Water Dragon God follows Liliana (Lily), a sheltered woman trapped in an abusive relationship. After a violent encounter with her partner, she’s rescued by a mysterious water dragon god, Nendori (Nen), with his own hidden motives. Though Lily knows her relationship was toxic, she still clings to the hope of returning to her normal life. But due to Nen’s interference, returning home proves to be far more difficult than she imagined.

This story is an emotional journey through trauma and hard choices. The writing is clear, compelling, and full of both tension and heartfelt moments. I love Nen’s playful interactions with Lily. While the book does explore some dark themes (definitely check the trigger warnings), each heavy moment serves a purpose in Lily’s and even Nen’s development.

There’s also just the right amount of spice, placed with care and intention. I devoured this book in a single sitting and am already excited to read more of Alex Perez’s work

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ready for a beautifully written, enchanting environment with a slow burn? Right here!

There are pieces that remind me of other movies. Nen, while originally making me think of the dragon in Spirited Away, has a much more boyish attitude. He likes to be silly and not so serious, which makes you fall in love with him even quicker.

The scenery is written so well you can imagine yourself hanging out with the Gods, enjoying their time.

There is also a place with multiple doors which reminds me of Nightmare before Christmas.

Overall it's a fun, slow burn with a lot of wonderful world building that has you rethinking fantasy.

[Jennifer Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book from start to finish had my full undivided attention. It was the perfect pace for me, enough world building to imagine the scenes, anticipation, the longing, adventure, etc! This book has it all.

Need a book with beautiful key points this is perfect for you. The book did have some spicy scenes, near death experience, and a murder, what more can you ask for?

Dragons, Gods, divine people….a must read! I truly can’t wait to see more if there is more to come.

[The Literary Sable · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌊 𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐝 🐉
✍🏼 𝘈𝘭𝘦𝘹 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘻

“𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗲𝘆𝗲𝘀 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿, 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱.” 🙌🏻

Thankyou so much Alex for choosing me as an ARC reader. It was an honour and my pleasure to read Saved By The Water Dragon God. I cannot wait for your future works! 🥰

⟡ ݁₊ 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: 4 ★
⟡ ݁₊ 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: 4 🔥

‘Saved By The Water Dragon God’ was so much fun to read. It’s absolutely perfect if you’re after a fun little whimsical romance!

I adored this book, and my only ‘negative’ is that I just wish it was longer! I really wanted to explore Lily and Nen’s newly formed relationship as it took them a while to actually get together, I adore them.
This story left me wanting so much more, and not just from Lily and Nen, but from the other characters too. I’m hooked on this series already!

I am so fond of Lily and Nen. I love how goofy Nen can be and how Lily sort of has to rein him in and keep him in check sometimes.
I’m also a sucker for the ‘he-falls-first’ trope and I don’t often see jt portrayed in the way the author does in this story, with Nen being shamelessly obsessed and in love with Lily immediately.
Their dynamic is so interesting due to Lily’s newfound fear of water (from her near-death experience) and the fact that Nen is a water god.

The other characters were all so interesting and mysterious.
I like how they were all introduced and interacted with Lily and Nen throughout the story, but still maintained an aura of mystique that left me feeling like I just had to learn more about them!

I really enjoyed reading this book and I sincerely hope everyone loves it as much as I do.
It’s the perfect introduction to the Realms of Divinity series and I’m so excited for Alex’s future works! Thankyou again for choosing me as an ARC reader, it’s been an honour and my pleasure.

✨𝙏𝙍𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙎 & 𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙈𝙀𝙎✨
* Romantasy
* He falls first
* Dragon God x Human
* Forced proximity
* Slow-burn romance
* Touch her, you die

✨𝙋𝙊𝙎𝙎𝙄𝘽𝙇𝙀 𝙏𝙍𝙄𝙂𝙂𝙀𝙍𝙎✨
* Mentions of domestic violence (by ex-partner)
* Mentions of animal cruelty (by ex-partner)
* Abandonment
* Attempted m*rder
* Explicit language
* Graphic violence (bl**d, bodily fluids)
* Intimate scenes
* Drowning
* Adultery (by ex-partner)
* S*xual ass**lt (by ex-partner)
* Mentions of addiction and substance abuse (by ex-partner)

[CloudsofEscape · Rating 4 out of 5]

- Forced Proximity
- Slow Burn
- Touch her and die
- He falls first
- Dragon God x Human
- Fantasy

Thank you Alex for allowing me to take part in reading this ARC! I really have looked forward to delving into this story, so really, thank you so much! This releases on March 15th! 🖤

This was a really cute romantasy read with a slow burn which I enjoyed a lot! I liked the relationship between Nen and Lily, and thought they were super cute together. I liked that Nen was protective of her and also very territorial. His flip between brooding attitude at times to complete goof ball was quite entertaining. I loved that he really took care of her, and I liked that Lily had a somewhat shy personality and she knew how to stand up for herself but she wasn’t too bossy or overpowering and she could also bring Nen out of that brooding state. Like she was his ray of sunshine, it was very adorable, especially when you learn about his own personal backstory which made me sad. I found the backstory about the dragons and gods in general super interesting and also the chapter with Anubis and the scales with the heart, I really liked that concept alot! The world building was wonderful and I thought the description for the characters appearances were really good as well as their realms!

My only want is that I really would have liked to know the side character a bit more and the book to be a bit longer so we could have more Nen and Lily time!

But overall I really enjoyed this a lot and the character art is so wonderful. Everytime a new chapter started I’d just sit and admire Nen and Lily’s character art!

I’m really looking forward to reading Alex’s future books, they have a way of making everything so magical and whimsical! And again, I said this about their previous book before but I could really see this being an Anime or animation! 🖤

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75⭐️
3🌶️

Really sweet and playful/cozy fantasy book.

After being left for dead in the ocean, Liliana finds herself in Halinora, the lands of the alluring and aloof Water Dragon God, Nendori. But Nen’s decision to save her has consequence for both parties. To find a way back to Earth, Liliana and Nen must convene with the other Gods in the realms of divinity—though not all are so willing to aid the Water Dragon God and his mortal pet.

Liliana and Nen are really interesting characters to follow. There are some darker themes that come up, but it was nice to see how Liliana moved through them. No matter what Liliana has gone through in life, she is always seeing the good in others and in the world. Immersive world building and intricate characters and I could picture Halinora being in movie. I really enjoyed that Nen was a big of an aloof character, he still showed seriousness and care and would still murder everyone for her (possessive) but even with their own faults still didn't come off as a typical MMC to me. It was also refreshing to see Liliana able to make decisions about her future on her own without pressure from anyone else including Nen.

I did find a couple instances where something was missing before jumping into their relationship/intimacy, maybe a bit of banter or conversation or lead up to it, and a little bit of repetitiveness. Regardless, this was a really fun quick read and I really looking forward to reading more from Alex and this series.

Thank you so much for this ARC for my honest review.

-- Quotes --

"Humans are social creatures, but if you are not like them, it is they who become the monsters"

"If your eyes should linger, let them linger on me instead."

"Er.. hey look," Nen says, trying to catch my attention. "Look what I can do."

"My Water Lily"

[Allison Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.25 Star
Spice: 4 Peppers

Synopsis:
Saved from drowning, Liliana awakes to the otherworldly realm of Halinora. When she meets Nendori, the God of Water, she finds out she is stuck with him. To get home, she must travel to other realms with Nen and seek the guidance of other Gods but none of their suggestions come without consequence. Can she trust the Gods, or Nen, who seems to be hiding something?

Review:
Alex has done it again with beautiful and immersive world building and multi dimensional characters. This is a growth story for Liliana as she remembers her abusive past, and starts to find her own desires. Her kind heart shines through in her decisions and time with Nen. Nen’s possessiveness and aloof behavior will make you laugh and make you want your own Dragon God to transport you into another realm. If you are looking for an easy to read romantic fantasy with rich worlds and spice, this is for you!

Huge thank you to Alex for the opportunity to read an ARC copy! This was such a good read, and really what I needed after a few other reads that were putting me in a slump.

Tropes:
- 𝘖𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘮 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘉𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨
- 𝘗𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴
- 𝘎𝘰𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘏𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘉𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴
- 𝘉𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳
- 𝘏𝘦 𝘍𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘴 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵
- 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘹𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘺

𝘔𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘈𝘭𝘦𝘹'𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘪𝘯. 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘕𝘦𝘯'𝘴 𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘢'𝘴 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴.

Bottom Line: I found this to be a book with beautiful world building and enjoyed! Yes I would recommend this book. Please read trigger warnings.

[Jocelynn LeBlanc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saved by the Water Dragon God
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I had the absolute lovely opportunity to beta read this romantasy novel and I am so glad I got to. I also re read it with the ARC copy I received as well and it’s still as lovely as when I was beta reading. Thank you Alex for the opportunity to beta and arc read for you because I am in love!!

I knew the moment I started reading this as a beta I was going to fall in love with the storyline. Rereading it as an ARC was just wonderful as the first time. I got to reconnect with these characters and fall for the world and characters all over again.

This is such a fun fantastical realm to read and it is just so insanely sweet and cute. I admire how smitten Nen is with Lily in this story, especially considering her past shitty ex who was a POS. I admire both of the characters growth in this story too. Lily being able to open up more and be herself and choose for herself too after years of not being able to. Nen was goofy and a joy to read considering he was such a green flag as well. He had me giggling and kicking my feet throughout moments in this read.

I love how descriptive Alex is, their words on paper is like I am able to envision exactly what’s happening and what characters look like because they’re just so good at describing their characters and fantasy world with perfect words.

I would consider reading up on the trigger warnings first incase some topics discussed in this would be triggering for you! (Examples: mentions of domestic abuse by ex partner, animal cruelty done by ex partner,attempted murder (by ex), etc)

Some Tropes:
🐉 He Falls First
🌊 Dragon God x Human
🐉 Forced Proximity
🌊 Slow Burn
🐉 Touch Her & Die

[Off Service Book Recs · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Alex Perez for an Advanced Reader's Copy of this title!

A moment unbalanced can tip the scales of everything. Left for dead by her abusive boyfriend after falling from their cruise ship, Liliana is surprised to find herself in the land (and scaly arms) of the Water Dragon God Nendori. While preferable to a watery grave, Nen's impulsive decision to save her life has caused unrest in the lands of divinity, and the pair find themselves in need of the other Gods if they wish to set things right and send Liliana home. With Nen clearly hiding something and the Gods seeming less-than-enthused at the prospect of helping the reclusive Water God, Liliana's chances of returning home seems to recede with the tide with each passing day. Can Liliana and Nen work together (and through their developing feelings for each other) to make things right before it's too late?

If you've enjoyed Alex's other story about a human girl who unexpectedly crosses paths with a god, you'll really enjoy this deep dive into a new world of gods and their elemental powers. This was an equally wholesome and sizzling story full of banter; learning your own self-worth; keeping a positive outlook on life even in the face of ugliness; monster-adjacent spice; and learning to see the world through someone else's eyes. This was a fun and fast afternoon read that struck a nice balance between romance and watching a character find her own way, and I am curious to see what will happen with the other gods in this world - this is the first in a new series, and I'm sure we'll see Nen and his Water Lily again!

[danni kaneshiro · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

I had the honor and privilege of being selected to beta read for Ms. Alex Perez, and what a wiiiilddd ride this was. I am a noob at spice but Nen is definitely a reason why I enjoy smut now LOL. Before I got swept away with mama duties and my new job, I had so much fun collaborating with Alex on this book, and honestly reading it before it’s official release was so fun and I am so proud of Alex for being able to reach the finish line on this book, and mind you… it’s just the start of this particular journey 😜

Alex’s writing is so beautiful. The beginning of Liliana’s story drew me in with her lyrical prose. The metaphors are what drew me in, Nen is what made me stay 😗 The realm and overall world building was so memorable for me. I think of it often. It was 100% completely immersive and expansive, and the diction really shows all the creative research that went into writing this fantasy.

The romance….. LET ME TELL YOU if i haven’t already hinted at it numerous times already. Nen… nen… nen…. nen… nen…. NEN…!!! Just read it. If you want slow burn, touch her and die, SHES MINE, forced proximity, PICK UP THIS BOOK AND JUST READ IT 😍

Thank you sooo much Alex for such an amazing read! I’m def going to be re-reading this one 🫶🏽

[Ethereal Book Academy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okayyyy, where to start?

First off, this book was adorable. It was fluffy and sweet with little no angst between the FMC and MMC.

Second, Nen was the literal BEST. He went out of his way to make Lily feel loved and comfortable in this new world. Everything he did, he did with her in mind. I mean, biting your own claws off to get down and dirty?! 🥴 like, come on! What man do you know would do something like that for their partner??? Also, who doesn't love a fancy peen????

However, you can't let his sweet side fool you. He's possessive and protective through and through.

It's hard for me to give my opinions on FMCs because I find so many of them in fantasy and paranormal romances to be insufferable. Lily, though, was the exact opposite. Sure, she had her issues, but she didn't let that define her. With everything she went through, she still cared deeply about those around her.

All in all I loved this book. If you're looking for an easy read or a palate cleanser, this is your book!

☆MF
☆Forced proximity
☆Gods and Dragons
☆2/5 🌶

*Please mind the triggers before you read. While there was nothing dark between the FMC and MMC, the environment around them could be considered dark to some.*

(I received a free ARC copy of this book, but I am voluntarily leaving a review)

[Megan (lost among the stacks) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am torn on the rating for this one, I am between a 3.5 - 4 ⭐️.

I love a good slow burn romance and this absolutely delivered on that in spades. But the actual story itself was just slow for me and I’m not sure why. This book will absolutely hit for fans of romance books without a doubt in my mind. The two main characters are well developed and enjoyable to read. It is easy to fall for Liliana and her resilience; I was cheering for her happy ever after! I love how she always looks for the good, the bright side, and considers everything to almost be a gift. Nen is such a sweet, green flag dragon shifting god! He is the perfect man to pick up the broken pieces and put back together the heart he didn’t break. Nen using magazines to design clothes for Liliana is one of my favorite parts of the book. He is just so accepting while also never letting her wallow too long before giving her a push forward!

This is a good debut novel that will absolutely land for all romance lovers. Give it a go and see which character you enjoy the most! I am hopeful that some of the other gods will get their own books as I found a couple of the side characters quite interesting!

* I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Manda PandaMonium · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saved by the Water Dragon God
Alex Perez


Nen makes me think of the guy who knows magic and casually does it to impress a girl.. but like in the best way. Lily is definitely caught in a place she doesn't want to be and longing to go home and her journey to making her own choices. That is so important.

The magic, the lore and the world building are amazing and included character art is fantastic for folks like me who struggle to imagine how someone looks lol.

I just want to put a couple of my favorites in here so potentially spoilers below

************



“Life is too short to take things seriously,” Nen says. I’m surprised someone immortal is familiar with the phrase. “Well, for you at least. Your company is the only enjoyment I have known for a very long time. Shall we take a small tour as we talk? There is something else I want to show you.”


“Are you really letting me decide?” I whisper.
“Of course,” Nen replies with a sad smile. “But I would prefer to keep you in my arms forever if you would allow it. I can handle eternity as the Water God if you remain by my side. You make life worth living.”

[Sarah Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was exactly what I needed after some really dense fantasy reads. It was silly, sexy (my first fancy peen book), adventurous, and the world building was incredible

I have dated a couple Jason’s in my life and I really resonated with the struggles Lily went through in this book coming to terms with that relationship and finding her own self worth

I thought the banter between Lily and Nen was great and it made me chuckle so many times. I did find their relationship to be a little insta-lovey for my taste and Nen was VERY forward from the jump but I still enjoyed watching their relationship blossom and the trials and tribulations they went through together

The world building of this book was so cool. I loved picturing each of the different realms related to the different gods and loved how much through was put into the description of each new setting

I had a great time reading this book. Thank you so much Alex for giving me a copy of this book to read, I hope others enjoy it just as much as I did

[raysasbookishbliss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

🩵 Tropes 🩵
- Trapped Together!
- A Fire Ignites Slowly
- Dare to Touch? Face His Wrath!
- A Dragon God and a Mortal: A Love Forged in Fantasy!
- He's Head Over Heels, and Falling FAST!
- A Realm of Magic and Mystery!

Wow, this book totally blew my expectations out of the water! It was an absolutely enchanting journey from beginning to end. Liliana's story? Heartbreakingly real. The way her struggles were painted with such care and understanding just pulled me right in. But, seriously, I was also screaming at her to wake up and see her worth! She deserved the world!

And Nendori? Talk about a rollercoaster! His story was so poignant, but watching him fight tooth and nail to change for Liliana? Amazing! He ended up giving her his absolute everything. Plus, the plot twists? Mind blowing! I was constantly guessing, and every time I thought I had it figured out BAM! Something completely unexpected happened.

Alex, thank you a million times for sending me this ARC! I'm already on pins and needles waiting for your next literary masterpiece!

[DarkDigital Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am elated I got to read this book before publishing!!!

Lilliana - abused and believing no one but Jason can love her…. She did so so much for him and it was never enough! Typical narcissistic abuse making someone fall away from college and family and everything she loves just for him.

Jason - drops out of college, lives off parents money, drunk and abusive. Takes Lilliana on a cruise and says screw this - tosses Lilliana off the cruise into the ocean

Nen- saves Lilliana from drowning to death for pure curiosity. He’s all -ooooh shiny toy…. Wait I love her? I need her! MINE to F and MINE to LOVE

All eternal beings on the council - break the bond and send her back she’s a mortal who doesn’t belong here!

Nothing is as it seems and these Gods seem more interested in screwing things up more rather than making things better for the world. Makes one think.

Nooooooooo I need more of this series cause Goddess above! NEED MORE

[Kats · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon Gods
Forced proximity
Sassy banter
Touch her and 💀
He falls first

Look, if there is one thing you should know about me it's that I love my dragons sassy and Nen did not disappoint. Aside from being curious about Lily it doesn't take long before he is besotted by her, he pushes her buttons and they have fantastic sassy banter. As Lily discovers more about Nen and the realms she has her doubts about returning to her life on Earth. The other Gods are so interesting with their own realms and abilities, it's such a wonderful universe I would love to read about more in the future. Lily is curious and faces some challenging things that happened in her past and Nen is so supportive. I really enjoyed these characters, the world and the romance. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Note there are recollections of past abuse so please be sure to check the trigger warnings. Thank you to Alex Perez for the advance copy, my opinions are my own.

[✨Gretch✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 Stars, but rounding up to 5 for Goodreads

This was a sweet and spicy monster/shifter romance, and I ate up every page.

Nendori is a Water Dragon God, and one day saves Liliana when she is pushed over the side of a cruise ship by her abusive boyfriend, Jason. That ass didn't even try to save her when she fell.

The relationship between Nen and Lily is a mix between insta-love and slow burn. It felt like insta-love since Nen fell first, and was VERY forward with Lily. But Lily was more on the slow burn side and she obviously took some more time to warm up to him. I enjoyed the banter and easygoingness between Lily and Nen, and found myself laughing at their antics. I really enjoyed watching them both grow together.

I loved the world building and descriptions we got of the other realms, but maybe I’m a little biased when I say Hainora was my favorite. The world that Nen made sounded so beautiful and peaceful, if I could journey there myself, I would.

My only main wishes for this book would be that we could have gotten to see more of the other gods , and I wanted to see a glimpse of what their life might have been like at the end of the book. Regardless I enjoyed it so much, and can't wait to see what else Alex has in store for us!

[Shelby Bush · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Perez has delivered a fun, whimsical, romantic fantasy that has progressive world building and character development with mysterious backstories.

Nen saves Lily in multiple ways and while Lily and Nen go on a quest to determine how to safely separate her from Nen's world and return her to earth and her prior life, she discovers things weren't as good as she previously believed. The slow burn heats up and Nen has some unique ways of showing Lily how much he desires her.
Chili Peppers: 3

Tropes: happily ever after, he falls first, multiple worlds/realms, touch her and unalive, spice, forced proximity, slow burn

Not only does Alex write fun stories, they also are an incredible person and I highly recommending you follow on socials @meltedsunsets.

I have to protect this little human, my beautiful and enchanting Water Lily. Earth does not deserve her.

[Tahniii · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book!

Nen is a cheeky lil cinnamon roll but with a protective and possessive streak that I LOVE. His intentions might be less than ideal in the beginning but as he gets to know Lily and sees all the abuse she’s had to endure and how she’s still a beautiful human despite it all, he begins to fall in love.

Lily after being sorely mistreated and isolated by her douchecanoe of an ex, slowly begins to trust Nen leading to a beautiful love blossoming between the two.

Two isolated and broken beings coming together to find love, was truly a beautiful read.
My only complaint would be that the ending did feel slightly rushed, but otherwise was an absolute pleasure to be a part of the ARC team for this one 🧡

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alex has done it again with creating another fantastical realm. If you are a fan of true fantasy worlds, they have you covered. Halinora is a beautifully described place - I first fell for it with the artwork, and the words used for the imagery do not disappoint.

Nen is also one of my favorite characters. Alex writes a great MMC, but Nen is especially amazing. He falls first, will not stand for anyone else to touch or threaten Lily, and wants to keep her always. If those tropes call to you, this one is a must.

[Lili · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good! I knew this was going to be good because from the very first sentence I was hooked. I immediately was shocked and curious and if it wasn't for work I would of finished this in one sitting. At every chance I got I was on my kindle reading this!
I loved the plot, and the characters, especially Liliana because she's just a kind and beautiful person! Then the pure attention and affection Nendori showered her with had me falling more in love with the story and him. Aaaah! Just everything was good and I definitely recommend reading!!