The Promise Born

The Lunaterra Chronicles

by Jessica Cage

When the dragon prince kidnaps a false bride to spite the queen an ancient rivalry is reborn.

To escape his mother’s relentless matchmaking, fire Dragon Prince Asante makes a desperate choice—he plucks a hard-headed baker from a small village and declares her his fiancée. It’s a harmless ruse, meant only to buy him time. After all, what threat could a woman with flour-dusted hands pose to the throne?

But Kiala is no ordinary baker. She is the lost Ice Dragon Princess, a woman thought to have perished an avalanche. Hiding in plain sight, she has spent years concealing her identity, waiting for a day when she could truly be free.
When Asante unknowingly pulls her into his world, she sees an opportunity—one that could change her fate forever.

As the lines between deception and desire blur, Asante finds himself enchanted by the woman who was never meant to be his. And when enemies from their people’s shared past resurface, threatening to destroy them both, he must will he protect his kingdom, or risk everything for the woman who just might be his destiny?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Royalty, Dragons

156 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 22, 2025

About the author

Born and raised in Chicago, IL, writing has always been a passion for Jessica Cage. She dabbles in artistic creations of all sorts but at the end of the day, it's the pen that her hand itches to hold. Jessica had never considered following her dream to be a writer because she was told far too often "There is no money in writing." So she chose the path most often traveled. During pregnancy she asked herself an important question. How would she be able to inspire her unborn son to follow his dreams and reach for the stars, if she never had the guts to do it herself? Jessica decided to take a risk and unleash the plethora of characters and their crazy adventurous worlds that had previously existed only in her mind, into the realm of readers. She did this with hopes to inspire not only her son but herself. Inviting the world to tag along on her journey to become the writer she has always wanted to be. She hopes to continue writing and bringing her signature Caged Fantasies to readers everywhere.

Reviews

[Noriboo · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️
Lighthearted dragon shifter romance.
I quite liked the story. The shift in the fmc's interest was a tad to swift for me. One moment, she disliked the prince, and after one date, they're talking about love? They had fun, but their relationship felt a bit too fresh and shallow (built on a fake identity) to jump into a believable undying love confession.

This story is nice if you're looking for a low angst palate cleanser!

[Tracie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun, lighthearted novella from an author I’ve read many times. Kaila is an unassuming baker, hiding from a life and predestined future that she wants no part of. She figured she could make and sell enough her delicious treats to get even further away from her domineering family. All of that goes out of the window when the kingdom’s fire dragon prince shows up and decides he needs a fiancé to appease his mother, the queen, so she can stop harping about his duty to produce heirs for the kingdom. It helps that the prince loves her pastries to the point that he demands (kidnaps) that she come to the castle to bake for him.

The tropes are enemies-to-lovers and fake dating. Keep in mind it’s a novella (about 156 pages), so things move along pretty quickly. It’s a cute and fun story, so it’s perfect as a palate cleanser while you’re between books and trying to decide what to read next. I enjoyed the descriptions of the types of dragons and how that plays into the politics of this world. There’s a small bit of spice, so if you’re looking for a ton of it you won’t find it. Overall I liked it and I’ll be reading others in the series as well.

*I was given an ARC copy of this book through Book Sprout in exchange for my honest review.*

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this novella there's a strangers to lovers trope that will melt your heart along with the action, drama, and minimal spice. He falls first and will do anything to please her grumpy attitude. The story of their relationship, dealing with societal pressure, and enemies, is one you should dive into. The Promise Born has the potential to be a good series by itself. I'm a fan of dragons and loved how they were portrayed along with the rest of the mythical creatures that were mentioned. This is one of thirteen book series, and I can't wait to read the rest!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Renada Boddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a refreshing and quick read. Kiala is a quiet baker who makes delicious pastries in her small town. She finds herself Asante’s , the prince of Fire, sweetest desire. Asante saw everything he desired in Kiala and did not stop until she agreed to move to the palace. Their journey is frowned upon due to the traditions and expectations of the royals. This story blends fantasy and romance in all the right ways. I enjoyed the world of fire and ice dragons.

**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review**

[Nita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

This was so good. It gave you all the feels like you felt every emotion that both the main characters were feeling. It was very interesting to see how their relationship develop reluctantly on both their parts. Kiala and Asante had so much more common than they thought both wanted to do the opposite of what their families wanted help them and that came to one thing that really truly brought them together.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

What do you get when a fire dragon prince fakes an engagement with a flour-covered village baker to dodge royal matchmaking? Chaos, chemistry, and a whole lot of heat—and not just from his flames! Asante thinks he’s found the perfect cover story, but surprise! Kiala’s not just any baker... she’s been keeping some serious secrets.

Their “pretend” romance starts to feel a little too real as sparks fly (literally), secrets unravel, and old enemies come sniffing around. Suddenly, this fake engagement has very real stakes, and Asante has to decide if love is worth melting a few centuries-old grudges.

Jessica Cage serves up dragons, destiny, and delicious tension in this magical, slow-burn fantasy romance. It’s spicy, funny, and filled with heart—perfect for anyone who loves a good royal ruse turned true love!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nyghtengale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jessica Cage has done it again! I want a whole trilogy exploring the further relationship between Kaila and Asante. There is so much in such a short story. I laughed, I cried, and got a little hot. I cannot wait to read the next novella in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bri The Shameless Romance Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars. Cute lighthearted fantasy read. It’s a bit predictable, but still enjoyable.

[Keaundray Osborn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is amazing. The way that the main characters fall in love is beautiful. It truly shows that true love can prevail through over anything. Jessica’s writing has always been top tier. Asante is a man that knows what he wants and that is Kiala’s heart. This was a non-stop page turner that I couldn’t wait to finish.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Coco TheChaoticLibrarian_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun lighthearted read. An easy going dragon shifter and his grumpy match. But don’t be swayed by the stranger to lovers. There’s plenty of action and drama to keep you flipping pages!!

[Kali Hecate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fun, light-hearted dragon shifter romance novella is a quick read and a good time. It was my first foray into the writing of Jessica Cage, and it won’t be my last.

As the story begins, we meet Kiala, a baker in a small village with a hidden past and a destiny she’s trying to escape. Things are going well for Kiala until the realm’s fire dragon prince, Asante, shows up and upends Kiala’s carefully crafted life. Asante falls for Kiala at first sight and will do anything to win her heart, including insisting she come with him to his castle. Which, not surprisingly, doesn’t exactly endear Asante to Kiala.

Things progress quickly from this point as this is a novella, but the story doesn’t feel rushed at all. Cage does a wonderful job of sustaining interest, building tension, and wrapping up the story in a satisfying way. Although I will say that I would love another chapter of Kiala and Asante’s story.

Thank you to Jessica Cage for the eARC of The Promise Born. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toubob · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5

It’s been a long time since I’ve DNF a book especially at 18%.

The prince comes into a town to pick some girl to pretend to be his fiance. Already, why would anyone want to be a temporary thing that has no future, she won’t even be paid.

He picks the h who doesn’t want anything to do with the prince. So he decides he’ll win her over with gifts and purchasing her baked goods. The gifts have no bearing originallity, no thoughtfulness. Basically the prince thinks he can just buy her.

In fact he comes into the h’s shop after a short period of time to make the h quit her business, move to the palace because he wants her to. She tells him no and he tries to emotionally blackmail her. Something along the lines of she owes him for all the gifts (that she didn’t ask for). She throws that back in his face. He gets pissed and has his people show up and pack up her belongings, close her business and forcefully move her to the palace.

There isn’t a thing the H could do to redeem himself. The book is set up for the h get the H to pull his head out of his ass and raise his EQ. The thing is, the h shouldn’t have to be the one to help the H redeem himself. She was forcefully removed against her will. Women shouldn’t be expected to carry the emotional load in a relationship… train someone…teach someone. Fuck that!

Sure couples should work together, learn to communicate and compromise. And a lot of people will gain more empathy, understanding and consideration for their partner. But the load shouldn’t be on one single person to teach/train/model while also carrying both people’s load.

[Shandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

With his mother trying to force him into marriage, Fire Dragon Prince Asante proposes a fake marriage to a small village baker Kiala. But Kiala is in hiding because she is the lost Ice Dragon princess, who is presumed dead. When she refuses his proposal he forces her to the castle anyways. He only wants to buy time and she sees this as an opportunity to get further away from her home. Neither of them expected desire to blossom and when an old threat to the kingdom resurfaces, neither of them expected old secrets to come out.

This was such a quick and good read. I love dragons and the fake proposal trope that turns real. Kiala was such a fun character to root for. Even not knowing she was the lost princess til the end (yes i realize it was in the blurb. I just got the book because of the author and didn't read it.) I thought she was fierce and stubborn. The tension between her and Asante was so good. This was a good palete cleanser for me. And I just realized as I was writing this that it is a shared world with other authors so it looks like a whole bunch of new books going into my TBR. sigh.

Rating 3.5 stars
*I received a review copy from BookSprout for my voluntary and honest review

[Aisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

cute read

First, I want to start by saying this is a cutesy story. But I would like to also preface this with saying that the ending was disappointing; it felt very abrupt and unsatisfying. Asante was sweet, and I appreciated him wanting his own path. Kiala took some warming up too, but eventually, I did find her to be a great character. Like always, I’m not telling someone not to read the story; it was sweet and moving, but the ending just wasn’t for me. First and foremost, I want to emphasize that this is a heartwarming and charming story. However, I must also acknowledge that the ending left me feeling somewhat disappointed. It felt abrupt and unsatisfying, which was a bit of a letdown. Despite this, Asante was a delightful character, and I appreciated his desire for independence. Kiala also required some time to warm up, but eventually, I found her to be a great addition to the story. As always, I don’t discourage anyone from reading this story. It was indeed sweet and moving, but the ending simply wasn’t for me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time diving into a new world from Jessica Cage, and whew—what a ride. Right from the start, the vibe was unique. The world building gave just enough to keep me curious without dragging things out, and the pacing kept the plot moving.

This was the best kind of slow burn. I didn’t even read the description before starting (author name = instant download for me), so I actually missed that she’s a princess—which probably should’ve been mentioned earlier. It’s not a spoiler since it’s literally on the back cover, but still. Would’ve helped me connect a little sooner.

That said, this was such a wholesome, mythical, and just beautiful read. I don’t usually do single POV, but this one worked for me more than I expected.

And that ending? TOOK. ME. OUT. I was shook—but also not? Jessica does what she always does: hits it out of the park.

4/5 for me. Definitely worth the read.

[Matilde · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast-Paced Fantasy That Leaves You Wanting More

The Promise Born by Jessica Cage is a quick, compelling novella that blends urban fantasy with a unique voice and strong character presence. From the first few pages, I was pulled into the world Cage created. The story moves swiftly and holds your attention with rich atmosphere and intriguing dynamics.

As a novella, it’s a fast read, which worked well for the most part but I did feel the ending was a bit rushed compared to the rest of the story. I would’ve loved just a little more time to fully sit with the conclusion and see everything come together with more depth.

That said, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. It’s perfect for when you want something short but satisfying, and I’m looking forward to reading more from Jessica Cage in the future.

Rating: 4/5 stars

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cheetara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I immediately wanted to read your book because I love dragons in all forms, but this take on dragon shifters was a wonderful surprise! Kiala was instantly loveable and I adore how multifaceted she is. Her determination to forge the path to the life she wanted endeared me to her. I could relate to wanting to be free of expectations.
Her freedom was short-lived due to the demanding dragon prince Asante staking a claim on her and she stood ten toes down and gave him every piece of her mind.🤣
If you are looking for a sweet but angsty romance that brings opposing sides together in the most unconventional of ways. This is the book for you.
I know this is a stand-alone story based in a world with other humans and supernaturals, but I would definitely not turn down another installment with this couple.

[S.B · Rating 5 out of 5]

First anyone who knows me knows im obsessed with 2 genres. Paranormal and Romance. Combined, I'm in heaven especially when it is well written. I love all of Jessica's books. She always finds a way to give us the stories we love on the genres we love with a twist and that is exactly what she did. I loved how she strayed from the "normal" Shifter genre. We always read about Wolf shifters and every once in awhile we get something like a feline Shifter or even bear shifters are becoming more common. Rarely do you see dragons or even read about them and I loved that she chose that in this story and I love to read about with characters that resemble me. Representation is very important in the stories I read. Please keep blessing us with your stories Jessica!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dawn Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Promise Born did not disappoint. Kiala and Asante's story was engaging. Asante won Kiala over pretty quickly even though she wouldn't admit it. Once she looked beyond his facade she softened to him but not enough to trust him with her secret. The big reveal didn't go quite the way I thought it would. I did predict that Kiala's hand would be forced but not in the manner that it did. My favorite side character was Ursala. I loved how she accepted Kiala from the time they met. Despite the difference in their statuses, I could see them being great friends.

Jessica Cage knows how to grab your attention. Every time I read one of her books I'm left wanting more. The Promise Born did leave me wanting just a little bit more but at the same time gave just enough.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bookwormlala · Rating 4 out of 5]

🐉 Slow Burn 🔥
Dragons and shapeshifters? I’m sat in a corner with my hoodie, cozy blanket and socks 🙃. This story pulled me in within the first chapter. STRONG FMC who doesn’t automatically swoon over the prince. Again, I’m in. Make ‘em sweat girl😅. I appreciated the slow burn between Kiala and Asante. I also loved the twist in her bakery treats. As the story went on I began to understand why Prince Asante was so headstrong in the beginning. Also why Kiala took the steps in aiding in her seclusion. The spicy moment was sweet not smutty but showed the growth between the characters. The villain was a bit predictable but it didn’t ruin it. As always Ms. Cage is an auto buy author for me. Even though her novellas always leave me wanting more of the story, like what happened next girlie?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Midnight · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was completely captivated by this story! The Author, Jessica Cage, crafted an incredible narrative in under 200 pages—brimming with romance, intrigue, passion, drama, and action. The love story between the main male character, Prince Asante, and the main female character, Kiala, swept me off my feet. I can already imagine countless readers sharing my sentiment: “I wish this story were longer!”

The playful banter between Asante and Kiala was both charming and clever. I must admit, I found myself rolling my eyes at Asante in the beginning, but he truly redeemed himself, and I grew to appreciate his character depth. Kiala, on the other hand, was a delightful and brave heroine who captured my heart.

This novella was an absolute gem—perfectly enchanting and irresistibly engaging! The world-building was nothing short of phenomenal!

[Demetres · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I have to say is Jessica Cage knows how to write a book!

i received this book as an arc reader.
I absolutely loved this novella. It was soo good. I've read 2 of Jessica's book from her "I accidentally" series so I'm familiar with her work, those books were really good too. I love the world building, the chemistry between Kiala and Asante. How they both tried to fight their attraction to each other, but couldn't help but fall for each other. I saw that this is a part of a collection of books from different authors. I'm really excited about this fantasy world and what the other authors added to it!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Damaris H · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars


This was such a fast-paced read — I devoured it in just a few hours.
I really liked the characters. Kiala has a badass personality, and Avante is just so sweet and sincere. Their relationship was very cute.

I also appreciated the coziness in this book — like, what!? The pastries with the [spoiler]-infused ice powers? Such a cool take on dragons and their abilities!

The worldbuilding was interesting, and the lore between the different dragon species was really well done too.

Overall, it was just a nice story to read, and I liked that the ending had a bit of action as well!

I recommend this if you’re into cozy, romantic, but also interesting fast-paced reads.

I’m giving it 3.5 stars.

[Traveling Bookie Monster · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Promise Born is another wonderfully fantastical story from Jessica Cage. Kiala may have turned her back on her people when she fled her homeland but she still has an open heart for her new village. She’s made a home for herself, independently from her family and the responsibilities but her dedication to her regular customers proves she didn’t flee because she was a cold hearted shrew, she still loves to bring joy to those enjoying her good.
Her obvious disdain for the Prince and his princely “charms” is hilariously opposing his inflated ego and entitlement and makes for some funny banter between the two. Although he is obviously smitten from the jump, Kiala won’t go down without a fight.
This quick, fun story is just another hit from the fabulous mind of Jessica Cage.

[Angelbelle Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is how you do a novella!

Immediately drawn in, intriguing MC’s, and plenty of plot, all wrapped up in a short story

From the first introduction I was curious about Kiala and Asante. Granted I didn’t like Asante, but still, I was curious and wanted to know more 🤭

I don’t know at what point I went from disliking him to rooting for him 🤔🤨 but I was ready for them to be together. Must have been between those stolen kisses 🤷🏾‍♀️

Even though this was great as a novella I could easily see this turning into more and I would happily eat it up. So Jessica if you ever consider expanding on this just know I’m sold

[Chahala Handy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my third read from this author and one thing is for sure, she puts the cozy in cozy fantasy. Her characters are funny and charismatic. The plot is fun to follow and her writing style is amazing!
Kiala is running from a life she doesn’t want in search of something to call her own. With nothing but her unique pastry skills, she has set herself up pretty nicely. That is until Prince Asante sets his sights on her turning everything upside down. In love her pastries, and her stubborn nature, Asante orders Kiala to move in to the palace to bake for him every day. But they begin to share something more sweet than pastries.

Must read!

[Deidra Wells · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a novella from Cage. I enjoyed the dragon shifter concept and the cast of characters was pretty large for a shorter story which gave you plenty of characters to enjoy and be interested in following up on. I did find the story to be a bit too full of plot points that weren't able to be fleshed out and the personalities of the main characters were kind of off putting to me at times. Overall it delivered sassy and confident femme characters and some magic and a bit of enemies to lovers. I'd recommend the read if that's your jam!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ashanti Burton · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️. Dragon shifter romance. I enjoyed it for what it was but a book with this storyline has the potential to be more in my opinion. Asante is a prince looking for a betrothed not found by his mother and Kiala is a baker just tryna mind her business. Asante is next is line for the throne and he believes Kiala can be his slice of peace. Kiala wants problems always because she has secrets of her own. This is a novella so certain things just weren’t as detailed as I would’ve liked. Plus the book kinda just ends with assumed acceptance of her becoming queen over one land when she refused her responsibilities of her own kingdom. No epilogue. I would still recommend.

[NeasNovelNest · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW:
This was so good! Honestly Jessica never fails to tell a great story! I am actually said I won’t get more of Kiala and Asante this easily could have been a series and I would be tuned in! This take on dragons and dragon shifters was so unique, the different varieties of shifters and non shifters was one I never would have expected but thoroughly enjoyed. Any book that can make you feel by all the feels in under 200 pages is a win! *silently praying JC is inspired to write more of K&A’s story* as always the representation in this book was fantastic.

[La Toya Hankins · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Promise Born is a sweet and savory story featuring royal responsibilities, delicious desserts and a baker willing to challenge expectations to earn the right to love and live her truth. I love the author’s depiction of the relationship between the second born prince and the dragon princess in hiding. Their journey towards love was written beautifully and captivated me. Cage doesn’t disappoint and the way she describes what happens when a fire and ice dragon connect is masterful.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.