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Astray: The New Protectorate Stories: Volume One: Book Two
Previously published in the Fragile Beings collection.
A dragon's kiss burns cold.
When Paloma Contreras, shy human scientist, accidentally dooms a rogue dragon to death, she'll do anything to save his life. If that means giving up the mountaintop she's called home her entire life, so be it. Too bad Artem Aždaja has no plans to steal her roost. He only wants one thing, and everyone knows a dragon will do just about anything to get what they've set their eyes on.
Paloma's life is turned upside when her efforts to save a dragon end with more than just a house guest. Artem's huge, arrogant, charming, and, according to him, one hundred percent hers. Dealing with a dragon isn't easy, but when they've decided you're their mate? Turns out they're downright impossible.
This standalone novella features one deceptively charming dragon far from home, a lonely woman on a mountaintop, and a spicy cautionary tale of what happens when you invite a dragon into your home — not to mention your bed.
A dragon's kiss burns cold.
When Paloma Contreras, shy human scientist, accidentally dooms a rogue dragon to death, she'll do anything to save his life. If that means giving up the mountaintop she's called home her entire life, so be it. Too bad Artem Aždaja has no plans to steal her roost. He only wants one thing, and everyone knows a dragon will do just about anything to get what they've set their eyes on.
Paloma's life is turned upside when her efforts to save a dragon end with more than just a house guest. Artem's huge, arrogant, charming, and, according to him, one hundred percent hers. Dealing with a dragon isn't easy, but when they've decided you're their mate? Turns out they're downright impossible.
This standalone novella features one deceptively charming dragon far from home, a lonely woman on a mountaintop, and a spicy cautionary tale of what happens when you invite a dragon into your home — not to mention your bed.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 24, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
I’ve reread Artem (H) and Paloma’s (h) story a bunch from the anthology it was originally in so this was a lovely revisit for me. There’s something about a dragon who was at his lowest being saved by an intelligent, but lonely woman and then that dragon becoming instantly devoted and ready to spoil his mate.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow drama, no real om drama but an ex boyfriend of the h’s hits on her and H loses it cause dragons are possessive and protective. Both are experienced though h’s is minimal and we don’t know how much the H actually has.
Some tropes/themes:
⭐️ Dragon MMC with human FMC
⭐️ She saves him
⭐️ Scientist FMC
⭐️ Cultural differences esp around dating/mating
⭐️ Possessive/protective MMC
⭐️ His bipedal form still has horns, wings, tail, etc.
⭐️ Many mentions of soft bedding/nest
The relationship forms very quickly. Paloma needed someone to care for her and Artem was ready to bring anything at his disposal to the table. Most of the book is him healing and the two of them dipping their toes into what’s happening between them. Which does include some steamy times.
Loved that Paloma was a brilliant scientist and that her specialty features in the climax, which is an intense scene in the story involving some danger. The epilogue is super sweet. These two cameo in another dragon novella in the series with a peek further into their future that I adored when I read it, but apparently the author also has a bonus epilogue on her Patreon that does cost some money. Also, whenever I read them, I just want a certain other dragon’s story more and more and this book has the first chapter for that book at the end!
I’ve reread Artem (H) and Paloma’s (h) story a bunch from the anthology it was originally in so this was a lovely revisit for me. There’s something about a dragon who was at his lowest being saved by an intelligent, but lonely woman and then that dragon becoming instantly devoted and ready to spoil his mate.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow drama, no real om drama but an ex boyfriend of the h’s hits on her and H loses it cause dragons are possessive and protective. Both are experienced though h’s is minimal and we don’t know how much the H actually has.
Some tropes/themes:
⭐️ Dragon MMC with human FMC
⭐️ She saves him
⭐️ Scientist FMC
⭐️ Cultural differences esp around dating/mating
⭐️ Possessive/protective MMC
⭐️ His bipedal form still has horns, wings, tail, etc.
⭐️ Many mentions of soft bedding/nest
The relationship forms very quickly. Paloma needed someone to care for her and Artem was ready to bring anything at his disposal to the table. Most of the book is him healing and the two of them dipping their toes into what’s happening between them. Which does include some steamy times.
Loved that Paloma was a brilliant scientist and that her specialty features in the climax, which is an intense scene in the story involving some danger. The epilogue is super sweet. These two cameo in another dragon novella in the series with a peek further into their future that I adored when I read it, but apparently the author also has a bonus epilogue on her Patreon that does cost some money. Also, whenever I read them, I just want a certain other dragon’s story more and more and this book has the first chapter for that book at the end!
July 26, 2025
I completely forgot I read this! Fragile beings (the original short story anthology this was first published in) was my first introduction to Abigail Kelly. And I’m so happy to rediscover her! I can’t wait to dive back into this world!
Besides that, this is such a great introduction to this world. It’s descriptive enough to give you strong implications of what is happening as a whole, but not extremely world building heavy in a way that kind of ruins the experience. Some modern fantasy books feel like you are chewing through metal to try and get to the plot.
Also, fun little side note, on the authors website she has a whole sorting quiz you can take to see what type of character you are in her world. I’m a witch if anyone was wondering 😂
Besides that, this is such a great introduction to this world. It’s descriptive enough to give you strong implications of what is happening as a whole, but not extremely world building heavy in a way that kind of ruins the experience. Some modern fantasy books feel like you are chewing through metal to try and get to the plot.
Also, fun little side note, on the authors website she has a whole sorting quiz you can take to see what type of character you are in her world. I’m a witch if anyone was wondering 😂
July 25, 2025
Trigger or content warnings? Yes, included in book.
Details?
FMC’s name is Paloma. I assumed she is late twenties to early thirties. Mmc’s name is Artem, and he’s nearly 70 years old.
Neither are virgins. No other women drama. FMC's ex tries to convince her to be with him (he did not know about the MMC) but she has no interest in OM.
Bits-and-bobs?
Paloma’s chickens preferring Artem by the end of the book is deeply enjoyable, I also appreciated that they too got an upgrade to their hut.
My thoughts?
This story was initially apart of Fragile Beings.
Paloma definitely did not mean to catch a dragon for her own romantic life, and yet by using her clever mind and luring a Rogue dragon to safety she caught the heart of Artem. He finds his Chosen clever, and wonderful, and cannot believe how blessed he is that *she* chose him first.
Granted Paloma just did not want an innocent being to be blasted out of the sky for veering off into Elvish territory. Rogue dragons can be known for being aggressive, and because of the anonymous threat lurking in the skies the town decides to sentence the dragon to death (instead of potentially being burned to death themselves). Luckily for Paloma she lures the friendliest Rogue possible- Artem. Charming, beautiful, and grateful he’s found his Chosen he **quickly** settles into life with her. She on the other hand, is a bit more hesitant.
This was just as easy to read the second time around.
Details?
FMC’s name is Paloma. I assumed she is late twenties to early thirties. Mmc’s name is Artem, and he’s nearly 70 years old.
Neither are virgins. No other women drama. FMC's ex tries to convince her to be with him (he did not know about the MMC) but she has no interest in OM.
Bits-and-bobs?
Paloma’s chickens preferring Artem by the end of the book is deeply enjoyable, I also appreciated that they too got an upgrade to their hut.
My thoughts?
This story was initially apart of Fragile Beings.
Paloma definitely did not mean to catch a dragon for her own romantic life, and yet by using her clever mind and luring a Rogue dragon to safety she caught the heart of Artem. He finds his Chosen clever, and wonderful, and cannot believe how blessed he is that *she* chose him first.
Granted Paloma just did not want an innocent being to be blasted out of the sky for veering off into Elvish territory. Rogue dragons can be known for being aggressive, and because of the anonymous threat lurking in the skies the town decides to sentence the dragon to death (instead of potentially being burned to death themselves). Luckily for Paloma she lures the friendliest Rogue possible- Artem. Charming, beautiful, and grateful he’s found his Chosen he **quickly** settles into life with her. She on the other hand, is a bit more hesitant.
This was just as easy to read the second time around.
December 4, 2025
Didn’t add anything to the 1-5 plot, so again wouldn’t start here. But it was cute, and it’s a bit longer for a novella so you get some good relationship development.
May 12, 2026
3.75 stars.
i LOVED the first meeting between the H and h. it was so perfect. and i really enjoyed the whole book.
though, since it's a dragon shifter book, i had expected a bit more of a no-nonsense, stern hero and less of a playful, humorous hero 😅 i think i just tend to gravitate towards the more serious heroes.
but this book had so many amazing moments between the main characters.
i loved all the dragon shenanigans like the hero instantly taking possession of the heroine and her home, the hero's tail winding around her ankle while he's sleeping, and the possessiveness he shows her.
we'll see if i ever reread this in the future. maybe when im in the mood specifically for a more playful, charismatic hero.
i LOVED the first meeting between the H and h. it was so perfect. and i really enjoyed the whole book.
though, since it's a dragon shifter book, i had expected a bit more of a no-nonsense, stern hero and less of a playful, humorous hero 😅 i think i just tend to gravitate towards the more serious heroes.
but this book had so many amazing moments between the main characters.
i loved all the dragon shenanigans like the hero instantly taking possession of the heroine and her home, the hero's tail winding around her ankle while he's sleeping, and the possessiveness he shows her.
we'll see if i ever reread this in the future. maybe when im in the mood specifically for a more playful, charismatic hero.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2025
3.5 rounding up but like this relationship dynamic and the story! She packs a good amount in for a novella!
April 13, 2026
Read a while back as part of fragile beings
July 23, 2025
I’ll always choose Astray
This story solidified my love for Abigail Kelly’s writing when it was in its original format of “Fragile Beings”. So for it to get its own book & step-back, I was ecstatic! This story touches on loneliness, being brave in a time of peril even when it’s scary and the outcome isn’t clear, nesting habits of a dragon, and the truth which can hurt but also be eye opening.
Paloma was not expecting to be chosen by a dragon while she was trying to save him from dying. But Artem, the dragon, had other ideas. This story follows their adventure in finding love during peril & comfy blankets!
1000/10 - would always recommend
This story solidified my love for Abigail Kelly’s writing when it was in its original format of “Fragile Beings”. So for it to get its own book & step-back, I was ecstatic! This story touches on loneliness, being brave in a time of peril even when it’s scary and the outcome isn’t clear, nesting habits of a dragon, and the truth which can hurt but also be eye opening.
Paloma was not expecting to be chosen by a dragon while she was trying to save him from dying. But Artem, the dragon, had other ideas. This story follows their adventure in finding love during peril & comfy blankets!
1000/10 - would always recommend
July 27, 2025
I liked this a lot! It was a very quick and fun read for me, with some interesting worldbuilding. It was hot and steamy, they had good chemistry, and the relationship itself was very appealing. The external plot was exciting, though I found the ending to be a little blunt (though I understand that, as it is a novella). I really enjoyed it and will be reading more from this author in the future.
Content Notes: Fated mates, forced proximity, dragon shifters.
Warnings:
Other: .
Content Notes: Fated mates, forced proximity, dragon shifters.
Warnings:
Other: .
April 30, 2026
Adorable, exciting, and humorous.
M/F fantasy romance between a dragon and a human
Abigail Kelly’s writing blends wildly imaginative world building, exciting/engaging/unique plot/storytelling, thoughtful character development, and interpersonal dynamics that are sweet, spicy, and humorous.
“Dragons were meant to die one of two ways—in combat or in the arms of their Chosen at a ripe old age, with offspring flourishing in the world, carrying on his clan’s legacy. Falling from the sky was a humiliation akin to slipping and dying in a g*dsd**ned shower.”
Highly recommend this series. Reading order available on author’s website.
M/F fantasy romance between a dragon and a human
Abigail Kelly’s writing blends wildly imaginative world building, exciting/engaging/unique plot/storytelling, thoughtful character development, and interpersonal dynamics that are sweet, spicy, and humorous.
“Dragons were meant to die one of two ways—in combat or in the arms of their Chosen at a ripe old age, with offspring flourishing in the world, carrying on his clan’s legacy. Falling from the sky was a humiliation akin to slipping and dying in a g*dsd**ned shower.”
Highly recommend this series. Reading order available on author’s website.
December 15, 2025
A strong independent woman (who’s maybe a little lonely), always taken care of herself and others. An injured dragon falls from the sky and basically lands on her house. She try’s to take care of him, but he’s like NOPE I’m going to take care of YOU from now on. Let me build you a nest and spoil the hell out of you, while still supporting your science and research career, because I love that you are so smart. Sometimes is as simple as that romance readers. So far everything I’ve read from this author has been a delight.
January 10, 2026
Packs a big punch for a novella
Lovely entry into the New Protectorate series. Even though this is a novella, you get a full plot with nicely developed characters and immaculate worldbuilding.
Lovely entry into the New Protectorate series. Even though this is a novella, you get a full plot with nicely developed characters and immaculate worldbuilding.
February 1, 2026
Awesome paranormal romance
I read this story in the book Fragile Beings and loved it. The worldbuilding is incredible. Paloma is brilliant and loveable. Artem is...breathtaking. There is graphic sex.
I read this story in the book Fragile Beings and loved it. The worldbuilding is incredible. Paloma is brilliant and loveable. Artem is...breathtaking. There is graphic sex.
March 1, 2026
He was sick and flying around for weeks in his dragon form. She lights a fire to lure him in so the elves won't shoot him. He decides her mountain would be a great home and she should be his mate .
I was very entertained.
I was very entertained.
November 25, 2025
Possessive dragons are so in
Read
January 17, 2026it was lovely
May 2, 2026
3.5 stars
This was super cute and fun.
I love the dragon worldbuilding in this series.
My one complaint I’d say is that it was too short… but I’m not really a novella girl.
This was super cute and fun.
I love the dragon worldbuilding in this series.
My one complaint I’d say is that it was too short… but I’m not really a novella girl.
February 6, 2026
Don’t get between a dragon and his roost or his mate 🙂↕️ I love a head strong MMC and a kind gentle FMC who isn’t sure what to make of them. Cat nip for the soul. Artem is all in from day one and Dr. Paloma is beyond confused which makes it all the more fun and sweet. Such a good comfort read with just the right amount of spice and plot!
August 25, 2025
This was my favorite short story when it was published in Fragile Beings. Who doesn’t enjoy a possessive dragon? Paloma is such a fun character. She is smart and independent but lonely. Artem is sweet and his excitement when he thought Paloma had chose him was endearing.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews