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How I Met My Monster
Dragon, Actually
I’m just a small-town girl doing my best to make it in the big city. Between double shifts at the giftwrap counter and pet-sitting my roommate’s moody cat, this holiday season isn’t exactly shaping up to be merry and bright.
But then a gorgeous green dragon walks into my life—or, more accurately, buys every gift in the shop just to talk to me! Myrran is sweet, awkward, and way too charming for his own good—or mine. He says I’m his greatest treasure, and the way he looks at me could melt even the iciest December day.
But being a dragon’s holi-date comes with its own complications, like teaching him how to kiss, managing his overly enthusiastic dragon family, and learning secrets I’m not sure I’m ready to handle. Is this whirlwind romance my happily-ever-after, or will Myrran’s flames burn too hot for a girl like me?
This Christmas, love is in the air…and my new boyfriend is a dragon, actually.
But then a gorgeous green dragon walks into my life—or, more accurately, buys every gift in the shop just to talk to me! Myrran is sweet, awkward, and way too charming for his own good—or mine. He says I’m his greatest treasure, and the way he looks at me could melt even the iciest December day.
But being a dragon’s holi-date comes with its own complications, like teaching him how to kiss, managing his overly enthusiastic dragon family, and learning secrets I’m not sure I’m ready to handle. Is this whirlwind romance my happily-ever-after, or will Myrran’s flames burn too hot for a girl like me?
This Christmas, love is in the air…and my new boyfriend is a dragon, actually.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 30, 2025
3.25
I’m a bit conflicted about how to rate this novella because, on one hand, it’s very cute and sweet, with a total green-flag MMC. On the other hand, it didn’t really hook me at the beginning. That might have been due to the mood I was in when I started reading it, but initially it didn’t do much for me.
As I kept going, though, the story grew on me and turned out to be quite enjoyable. I’m still figuring out whether I’m pro–stalking or not - especially considering that in this case the character is a dragon, so the situation definitely feels different and should probably be judged by other standards.
That said, I’m curious to read more from this author. Unfortunately, I just wasn’t in the right mood to fully connect with the love story between Jewel and Myrran.
P.S. Bonus points for a dragon who doesn’t have abs, is slightly insecure about his appearance, and is a chef.
I’m a bit conflicted about how to rate this novella because, on one hand, it’s very cute and sweet, with a total green-flag MMC. On the other hand, it didn’t really hook me at the beginning. That might have been due to the mood I was in when I started reading it, but initially it didn’t do much for me.
As I kept going, though, the story grew on me and turned out to be quite enjoyable. I’m still figuring out whether I’m pro–stalking or not - especially considering that in this case the character is a dragon, so the situation definitely feels different and should probably be judged by other standards.
That said, I’m curious to read more from this author. Unfortunately, I just wasn’t in the right mood to fully connect with the love story between Jewel and Myrran.
P.S. Bonus points for a dragon who doesn’t have abs, is slightly insecure about his appearance, and is a chef.
January 11, 2026
Leído en las vacaciones de navidad. Ha sido un relato navideño tierno. Lo necesitaba para oxigenar el cerebro y me he encariñado con los personajes. Tampoco contiene un gran trasfondo pero no me quiero poner exquisita. Ha cumplido con mis expectativas.
December 30, 2024
I love some light stalking in the name of fated mates. Fun and sweet with the right amount of spice. I still get a kick out of dragons being allergic to gluten!
November 30, 2025
Traveling this week, full review to come
November 28, 2025
is it really stalking if it’s love?
November 28, 2025
Dragon, Actually is a holiday novella and part of the How I Met My Monster series. It follows Jewel and Myrran. I love a good insta love romance especially when monsters are involved! This book was so cozy and the perfect little afternoon read.
Jewel is such a wonderful fmc. She is a model who is still looking for her big break. In the meantime over the holiday season she is working as a gift wrapper in a department store which is how she met Myrran. From the first time she saw him she was drawn to the adorable green dragon. I love that the more she got to know Myrran the more she wanted to be his future wife. She is kind, sweet, hardworking, and loving.
Myrran is the sweetest dragon in all the land! He has known that Jewel was his fated mate the first time he scented her but never worked up the courage to talk to her until he sees her in a department store one night. From the first time he talked to her there was no going back and he worked hard to show her that he is the dragon for her. She became his greatest treasure. He is sweet, thoughtful, protective, funny and adorably awkward.
There was a connection right from the start and I love that it grew each time he came to see her. There is light stalking involved but honestly it’s really heartwarming because he just wants to make sure she is safe and he can’t seem to stay away. He is just a giant cinnamon roll and I love that she accepts him as is.
Dragon, Actually was such a cute and quick holiday read! I highly recommend checking it out if this is your vibe!
You will enjoy this book if you like the following:
- Monster romance
- Holiday novella
- Fated mates
- Cinnamon roll MMC
- Light stalking
- Size difference
- Cozy romcom
Thank you so much, Sara Ivy Hill for the gifted copy!
Jewel is such a wonderful fmc. She is a model who is still looking for her big break. In the meantime over the holiday season she is working as a gift wrapper in a department store which is how she met Myrran. From the first time she saw him she was drawn to the adorable green dragon. I love that the more she got to know Myrran the more she wanted to be his future wife. She is kind, sweet, hardworking, and loving.
Myrran is the sweetest dragon in all the land! He has known that Jewel was his fated mate the first time he scented her but never worked up the courage to talk to her until he sees her in a department store one night. From the first time he talked to her there was no going back and he worked hard to show her that he is the dragon for her. She became his greatest treasure. He is sweet, thoughtful, protective, funny and adorably awkward.
There was a connection right from the start and I love that it grew each time he came to see her. There is light stalking involved but honestly it’s really heartwarming because he just wants to make sure she is safe and he can’t seem to stay away. He is just a giant cinnamon roll and I love that she accepts him as is.
Dragon, Actually was such a cute and quick holiday read! I highly recommend checking it out if this is your vibe!
You will enjoy this book if you like the following:
- Monster romance
- Holiday novella
- Fated mates
- Cinnamon roll MMC
- Light stalking
- Size difference
- Cozy romcom
Thank you so much, Sara Ivy Hill for the gifted copy!
January 4, 2025
🔥 “I see you. I feel your flame. You are known to me.”
~~~
Jewel is a wonderful woman! She’s hardworking and determined to make it in the big city. Even more, she’s optimistic, kind, compassionate and understanding. Jewel is as beautiful on the outside as she is on the inside and I loved her so, so much!
And Myrran is one phenomenal male! He’s thoughtful, considerate, sweet and adorably awkward. Even more, despite his insecurities (or maybe because of them) he’s irresistibly charming and I loved his patience, generosity and determination when it came to winning his mate. This spectacular dragon with a dad bod is absolutely incredible and I adored every single thing about him!
I absolutely loved everything that happened between Jewel and Myrran! The moment the dragon sees the sunshiny human, he knows she’s his fated mate. So, he’s willing to do everything to win her, starting with a light… stalking. I absolutely adored Jewel and Myrran together! Their chemistry was fantastic right from the start and I absolutely adored their banters, tesings and cheesy puns. Even more, I loved how accepting, understanding and supportive they were of each other. And I also couldn’t get enough of the passionate moments they shared. Myrran and Jewel were truly perfect for each other and I couldn’t get enough of either of them!
If you’re looking for a quick, sweet, fun, heartwarming, festive and naughty story, “Dragon, Actually” is the book for you!
I loved it!
~~~
Jewel is a wonderful woman! She’s hardworking and determined to make it in the big city. Even more, she’s optimistic, kind, compassionate and understanding. Jewel is as beautiful on the outside as she is on the inside and I loved her so, so much!
And Myrran is one phenomenal male! He’s thoughtful, considerate, sweet and adorably awkward. Even more, despite his insecurities (or maybe because of them) he’s irresistibly charming and I loved his patience, generosity and determination when it came to winning his mate. This spectacular dragon with a dad bod is absolutely incredible and I adored every single thing about him!
I absolutely loved everything that happened between Jewel and Myrran! The moment the dragon sees the sunshiny human, he knows she’s his fated mate. So, he’s willing to do everything to win her, starting with a light… stalking. I absolutely adored Jewel and Myrran together! Their chemistry was fantastic right from the start and I absolutely adored their banters, tesings and cheesy puns. Even more, I loved how accepting, understanding and supportive they were of each other. And I also couldn’t get enough of the passionate moments they shared. Myrran and Jewel were truly perfect for each other and I couldn’t get enough of either of them!
If you’re looking for a quick, sweet, fun, heartwarming, festive and naughty story, “Dragon, Actually” is the book for you!
I loved it!
December 31, 2024
“I…love…dragon…kisses,” she pants.
That makes me smile. “Good, because this dragon loves kissing you.”
…
Dragon, Actually was the sweetest holiday story! It’s a heartwarming tale of fated mates and instalove. This gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!
I LOVED Jewel and Myrran! Oh my god they were so cheesy and cute! Their flirty banter and puns had me giggling throughout their story.
Jewel is such a great FMC. She’s headstrong, determined, and very goal driven. I liked how she was always happy and positive despite having to spend the holidays alone and working.
Myrran… oh my god I love this dragon. First of all he has a DAD BOD!!! Thank you Sara for this 🥵😍😮💨🫠. His insecurities about his body is so refreshing in this book. It’s a trope that’s not very common. Also this man is the definition of “if he wanted to, he would.” His light stalking of Jewel and buying gifts just to interact with her was hilarious and adorable.
This novella packs a lot of backstory into the plot and really fleshes everything out. The instalove from the mate bond (on Myrran’s side) and Jewel’s attraction and lust really drive their relationship into something that’ll last forever. Overall I loved this story and I think it’s a sweet, silly, and hilarious holiday read!
That makes me smile. “Good, because this dragon loves kissing you.”
…
Dragon, Actually was the sweetest holiday story! It’s a heartwarming tale of fated mates and instalove. This gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!
I LOVED Jewel and Myrran! Oh my god they were so cheesy and cute! Their flirty banter and puns had me giggling throughout their story.
Jewel is such a great FMC. She’s headstrong, determined, and very goal driven. I liked how she was always happy and positive despite having to spend the holidays alone and working.
Myrran… oh my god I love this dragon. First of all he has a DAD BOD!!! Thank you Sara for this 🥵😍😮💨🫠. His insecurities about his body is so refreshing in this book. It’s a trope that’s not very common. Also this man is the definition of “if he wanted to, he would.” His light stalking of Jewel and buying gifts just to interact with her was hilarious and adorable.
This novella packs a lot of backstory into the plot and really fleshes everything out. The instalove from the mate bond (on Myrran’s side) and Jewel’s attraction and lust really drive their relationship into something that’ll last forever. Overall I loved this story and I think it’s a sweet, silly, and hilarious holiday read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2025
Tropes:
✨Fated Mates
✨Cinnamon Roll MMC
✨Christmas romance
✨Cozy
✨HEA
I would recommend this for folks looking for a cozy monster romance for the holidays. This medium paced story has witty banter, cute flirting and chemistry, and the comfort of finding connection and support in a big city far away from home. Medium spicy.
The two characters in this book have adorable chemistry together. They’re fated mates which the dragon MMC can immediately sense, but which the FMC is not aware of, nor culturally used to as humans don’t have fated mates. Hilarity ensues as he tries to play it as cool as he can while wanting nothing more than to claim her. The way he goes about introducing himself and flirting is adorable, and the way he helps her feel at home in the big city away from her family at the holidays is really sweet. This was a perfect cozy HEA read to start off my holiday season with!
Triggers: Stalking
✨Fated Mates
✨Cinnamon Roll MMC
✨Christmas romance
✨Cozy
✨HEA
I would recommend this for folks looking for a cozy monster romance for the holidays. This medium paced story has witty banter, cute flirting and chemistry, and the comfort of finding connection and support in a big city far away from home. Medium spicy.
The two characters in this book have adorable chemistry together. They’re fated mates which the dragon MMC can immediately sense, but which the FMC is not aware of, nor culturally used to as humans don’t have fated mates. Hilarity ensues as he tries to play it as cool as he can while wanting nothing more than to claim her. The way he goes about introducing himself and flirting is adorable, and the way he helps her feel at home in the big city away from her family at the holidays is really sweet. This was a perfect cozy HEA read to start off my holiday season with!
Triggers: Stalking
December 13, 2025
Who wouldn't want a sweet dragon mate to take care of them, if they were all like Myrran? Jewel is his alokoi, or mate, so I guess it's perfectly normal that he initially follows her around to protect her and be near her because of a biological compulsion. In the real world, I might say this is creepy, but given this is a PNR, it's par for the course! Besides, he's a sweet, possessive and protective dragon who will do anything for his mate, including buy her gifts constantly just so he can be near her while she wraps them. I love that she takes this all in stride and falls for him just as hard as he falls for her. They have quite a bit of chemistry going between them. I enjoyed the spice and the humour, and I really liked the side characters in the book. It was a fun Christmassy story.
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 22, 2025
I fell in love with Sara Ivy Hill's writing about year ago, when I was introduced to a dragon named Zed. She writes the sweetest monster romances. They are funny, cozy and spicy.
Today I dove into her novella Dragon, Actually. It hit all my markers for a cozy holiday read.
Dragons do love their treasures and Jewel is perfect addition to Myrran's hoard.
Short, but packed with backstory, plot and that instalove that Fated Mates gives. Oh to be cherished like Myrran loves his alokai.
Stalking, but it’s sweet
Big boy
Fated Mates
Dragon and his ahem, unique anatomy
Cozy Holiday Vibes
Thank you Sara Ivy Hill for this ARC.
I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Today I dove into her novella Dragon, Actually. It hit all my markers for a cozy holiday read.
Dragons do love their treasures and Jewel is perfect addition to Myrran's hoard.
Short, but packed with backstory, plot and that instalove that Fated Mates gives. Oh to be cherished like Myrran loves his alokai.
Stalking, but it’s sweet
Big boy
Fated Mates
Dragon and his ahem, unique anatomy
Cozy Holiday Vibes
Thank you Sara Ivy Hill for this ARC.
I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 26, 2025
Love love love. Jewel and Myrran are just the cutest.
The light stalking wasn’t too much because it came from a “idk why but I’m drawn to this human but I am” place so I didn’t mind that at all. I also don’t mind insta love cause you know…life’s short. Love whoever on whatever timeline you want.
I also LOVE the compulsion to see her every single day. My man Myrran is obsessed. And it’s so cute that he buys gifts for his “future wife” 😍
And I’m glad it (modeling)all worked out for Jewel. I am a little sad that we didn’t get more of the “hive” dynamic. I would have loved to see Jewel navigate that.
All in all, I adore Sara Ivy Hill’s work and this is no different.
Tropes:
Insta love
Size difference
Two 🐓
Knots
Scenting
The light stalking wasn’t too much because it came from a “idk why but I’m drawn to this human but I am” place so I didn’t mind that at all. I also don’t mind insta love cause you know…life’s short. Love whoever on whatever timeline you want.
I also LOVE the compulsion to see her every single day. My man Myrran is obsessed. And it’s so cute that he buys gifts for his “future wife” 😍
And I’m glad it (modeling)all worked out for Jewel. I am a little sad that we didn’t get more of the “hive” dynamic. I would have loved to see Jewel navigate that.
All in all, I adore Sara Ivy Hill’s work and this is no different.
Tropes:
Insta love
Size difference
Two 🐓
Knots
Scenting
November 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐
That was absolutely worth staying up and reading. What a cute little story with cozy holiday rom com vibes and a dash of stalker dragon that can't help the corny jokes that escape him. Myrran was so adorable and loveable and dorky and perfect. Jewel was so receptive and so cute and silly and I loved them together. "Now I have the prettiest Jewel to treasure." Sir, you shut up right now! This was really fun and cute. The store name had me giggling and so did all Myrran's cheesy jokes. If you've got a couple hours and want some blush filled giggles I highly recommend!
That was absolutely worth staying up and reading. What a cute little story with cozy holiday rom com vibes and a dash of stalker dragon that can't help the corny jokes that escape him. Myrran was so adorable and loveable and dorky and perfect. Jewel was so receptive and so cute and silly and I loved them together. "Now I have the prettiest Jewel to treasure." Sir, you shut up right now! This was really fun and cute. The store name had me giggling and so did all Myrran's cheesy jokes. If you've got a couple hours and want some blush filled giggles I highly recommend!
July 24, 2025
It was Ok, though I was confused as to where this takes place, or any of the world. At some point fMC's mom says (repeatedly) that she's on another planet, but until then I had the impression that it took place on earth. Not much is mentioned about dragons and their culture of history, and sometimes it was difficult to picture MMC because the language used for him was very vague, especially when they kissed.
December 16, 2025
This was a great sweet and spicy and cosy holiday read! I love a holiday novella and this one delivered. Jewel was such a fun character, working at a department store while chasing her dreams. And Myrran was the sweetest dragon, obsessed with his human mate (even if she doesn't know it yet). We should all be so lucky to have a handsome, and down bad dragon chasing after us.
This is a fantastic and quick holiday novella read! It's sweet and spicy and the cutest fated mates love story!
This is a fantastic and quick holiday novella read! It's sweet and spicy and the cutest fated mates love story!
December 22, 2025
This is a big cozy hug for the holidays! Jewel had been feeling lonely, spending Christmas alone and then - boom - Myrran barges into her life! The sheer amount of care and affection between these two is off the charts, I loved it.
Yes if: Dragons having 2 🍆 and dirty talk about using them
No if: Insecurity about what this relationship is popping up for a hot minute
🐲 Chef x Department store gift wrapper
⛸️ Tall FMC & Chubby MMC
🐲 Fated Mates
⛸️ Stalking
🐲 "Little deer"
⛸️ Care taking
Yes if: Dragons having 2 🍆 and dirty talk about using them
No if: Insecurity about what this relationship is popping up for a hot minute
🐲 Chef x Department store gift wrapper
⛸️ Tall FMC & Chubby MMC
🐲 Fated Mates
⛸️ Stalking
🐲 "Little deer"
⛸️ Care taking
November 23, 2025
Light and delightful to read, and utterly heartwarming. On this wintery, chilly Sunday morning, this book is perfect. I love the chemistry between Myrran and Jewel. I love those tiny-pawed side characters that somehow fill the story with warmth. There is a touch of naughty and steamy moments, but most of all, the love and happy-ever-after are still the heart of the story.
November 24, 2025
Nothing like stalking your Fated mate while she's working (all in the name of love of course)
This is such a cosy, feel good, quick read and a perfect prequel to There's something about Dragons.
Myrran and Jewel are great together and the build up to them eventually having a full conversation is so cute. Once they finally get on that date (and have a run in with Mr Whiskers) its full steam ahead.
Love this book and the full How I met my monsters series.
This is such a cosy, feel good, quick read and a perfect prequel to There's something about Dragons.
Myrran and Jewel are great together and the build up to them eventually having a full conversation is so cute. Once they finally get on that date (and have a run in with Mr Whiskers) its full steam ahead.
Love this book and the full How I met my monsters series.
November 28, 2025
This was a heartwarming holiday romance that brings a wee bit of fated mate stalking to the forefront ;) Myrran knows Jewel is his mate and he wants to know everything about her while he slowly woos her... Expect a sweet monster read that has great backstory and spice, all set over the holidays to make it a page turning read. Good fun!
December 1, 2025
This Christmas, love is in the air…and my new boyfriend is a dragon, actually.
A short rom-com read with dragons, fated mates, a dad bod MMC (girls like a little cushion too!) and an HEA! Highly recommend checking this out this holiday season
I received a free copy of this book and I am leaving a voluntary review.
A short rom-com read with dragons, fated mates, a dad bod MMC (girls like a little cushion too!) and an HEA! Highly recommend checking this out this holiday season
I received a free copy of this book and I am leaving a voluntary review.
December 31, 2025
Christmas romance books are pretty much my favorite genre/trope, throw in a dragon, fated mates, and oof, I couldn’t help but eat this one up! I loved that it gives you the holiday feels and isn’t just happening during a holiday. I also loved that it didn’t feel like love actually (sorry fans, but I just didn’t get/kinda hated that movie 🥲) but I loved this book!
January 6, 2025
Super cute, and short wee holiday story. Stalker dragon and down on her luck aspiring model. Instant love on his side this is a medium burn but lovely and spicy when it hits. Absolutely loved the mmc being against the norm and being the male version of "curvy". Well worth the read.
February 5, 2025
Well, I guess I only have myself to blame for binging novellas to get to a specific number of books read this year…
This was not good. At all.
It started off a bit weird, with a stalker dragon obsessed with his mate, and just turned super cringe very quickly.
This was not good. At all.
It started off a bit weird, with a stalker dragon obsessed with his mate, and just turned super cringe very quickly.
November 22, 2025
One word, ADORABLE! Such a sweet and spicy novella with a HOT Dad Bod dragon. That was a fun revelation, the romance hotties are always six packs and hard chests, which are great, but sometimes a girl needs a little meat to grab!
November 27, 2025
I mean, I am a Sara Ivy Hill fan, and a Grinch about holidays so this one was perfect to get me closer to the holiday spirit! A fun retelling with a big, lovable dragon who just wants the best for his mate. How more swoon-worthy can you get?
November 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this cute Dragon Fated Mate story. Myrran and Jewel are so cute together. Loved their steamy connection and their cute cheezy banter had me smiling a lot. Perfect Holiday Rom Com.
Sara is a wonderful author. I highly recommend this fun Holiday romance with a very happy ending.
Sara is a wonderful author. I highly recommend this fun Holiday romance with a very happy ending.
November 29, 2025
I've fallen in love with this story from the first time I've read it! This is my 5th time reading it and it's just as amazing as the first time! I love Sara's writing and adore all of the books I've read is hers! I'm so glad that this is getting published for everyone to enjoy!
December 19, 2025
short, sweet and spicy. Just how Sara ivy does it!!
if you're looking for a hot squishy dragon and a homesick human who finds her fated mate in said dragon, with a Christmas backdrop this book is absolutely for you!
if you're looking for a hot squishy dragon and a homesick human who finds her fated mate in said dragon, with a Christmas backdrop this book is absolutely for you!
April 1, 2025
This made me want to put on my Christmas sweater and drink Mexican hot chocolate even in spring. A sweet, short holiday novella perfect for a toasty night in.
November 22, 2025
Very good monster romance for the holidays.. Cute and funny..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews