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Creatures and Cottages #3
The Dragon's Muse
Beck never thought he’d see Eleanor again, but when a beautiful woman shows up in Starry Hill, there’s no doubt in his mind that she’s his childhood best friend—the one he’s never forgotten.
Starry Hill is exactly what Eleanor needs. She spends her weekends cozied up between the pages of her favorite bookshop and reconnecting with Beck—the friend she thought she’d lost forever.
The more time they spend together, the clearer it becomes that their feelings go well beyond friendship, but the mysterious reason why Beck disappeared lingers between them. With some helpful meddling from Starry Hill favorites, can Beck and Eleanor find the courage to face the past so they can have a chance at a happy future?
The Dragon's Muse is a sweet and spicy, small town monster rom-com. It's the third book in the Creatures & Cottages series. Each book can be read as a standalone. For readers 18+
Starry Hill is exactly what Eleanor needs. She spends her weekends cozied up between the pages of her favorite bookshop and reconnecting with Beck—the friend she thought she’d lost forever.
The more time they spend together, the clearer it becomes that their feelings go well beyond friendship, but the mysterious reason why Beck disappeared lingers between them. With some helpful meddling from Starry Hill favorites, can Beck and Eleanor find the courage to face the past so they can have a chance at a happy future?
The Dragon's Muse is a sweet and spicy, small town monster rom-com. It's the third book in the Creatures & Cottages series. Each book can be read as a standalone. For readers 18+
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2026
30 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Elle Sterling
8 books62 followersElle Sterling is an author of wholesomely horny romance that'll make you giggle and swoon.
Much like her own life after emigrating from South Africa to South Korea, she enjoys writing characters crossing cultural barriers and loving without restraint.
You can usually find Elle in her writing cave with coffee within reach at all times. She also enjoys grilled kimchi-and-cheese sandwiches and hibernates during the humid summer until the weather has cooled.
To keep up with her life in Korea and latest releases, follow her on social media: @ellesterlingauthor
Much like her own life after emigrating from South Africa to South Korea, she enjoys writing characters crossing cultural barriers and loving without restraint.
You can usually find Elle in her writing cave with coffee within reach at all times. She also enjoys grilled kimchi-and-cheese sandwiches and hibernates during the humid summer until the weather has cooled.
To keep up with her life in Korea and latest releases, follow her on social media: @ellesterlingauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 26, 2026
I have absolutely loved the Creatures & Cottages series and The Dragon's Muse is no different. It is always nice to be back in Starry Hill and hang out with these characters that feel like friends.
Beck and Eleanor's story is sweet, childhood friends who haven't seen each other in more than 20 years. I enjoyed watching them reconnect and discover their feelings for each other. Both fairly insecure due to outside influences, I loved seeing them get more and more comfortable with each other and themselves.
I received an ARC from the author to review. All opinions are my own.
Beck and Eleanor's story is sweet, childhood friends who haven't seen each other in more than 20 years. I enjoyed watching them reconnect and discover their feelings for each other. Both fairly insecure due to outside influences, I loved seeing them get more and more comfortable with each other and themselves.
I received an ARC from the author to review. All opinions are my own.
Did not finish
March 31, 2026Take the worlds most cringe dialogue and then amp it up by 10000% and you get this 🥴
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Eleanor arrives in the quiet town of Starry Hill, she’s not looking to stay for more than her job needs. She certainly doesn’t expect to reunite with Beck, her childhood best friend who disappeared without explanation and never quite faded from memory. As they fall back into each other’s lives, old feelings quickly resurface, deepening into something more than friendship. But the unanswered question of why Beck left still lingers between them, and before they can fully move forward, they’ll have to confront the past that pulled them apart in the first place.
This was such a sweet and satisfying read. Beck and Eleanor are incredibly easy to root for, and their dynamic strikes a great balance between cozy and genuinely emotional. The writing does a strong job of conveying both internal feelings and subtle body language, which helps their relationship feel natural as it develops. I also appreciated how the book incorporates characters from earlier installments. There’s a clear sense of a connected world, but the cameos never feel forced or distracting. The pacing works particularly well here, giving the characters enough room to breathe without dragging.
The story feels perfectly sized for what it sets out to do, delivering a complete and satisfying emotional arc without overstaying its welcome. Watching Beck and Eleanor reconnect and grow into themselves was genuinely enjoyable, and the overall tone hits that cozy, slightly whimsical note the genre does best. This has definitely solidified my interest in the rest of the series—I’ll be picking up the final installment when it releases, and likely circling back to the ones I missed. Highly recommended for fans of cozy monster romance. Many thanks to the author for this ARC. This is my honest review.
5/5 A cozy romance with a little extra heat.
This was such a sweet and satisfying read. Beck and Eleanor are incredibly easy to root for, and their dynamic strikes a great balance between cozy and genuinely emotional. The writing does a strong job of conveying both internal feelings and subtle body language, which helps their relationship feel natural as it develops. I also appreciated how the book incorporates characters from earlier installments. There’s a clear sense of a connected world, but the cameos never feel forced or distracting. The pacing works particularly well here, giving the characters enough room to breathe without dragging.
The story feels perfectly sized for what it sets out to do, delivering a complete and satisfying emotional arc without overstaying its welcome. Watching Beck and Eleanor reconnect and grow into themselves was genuinely enjoyable, and the overall tone hits that cozy, slightly whimsical note the genre does best. This has definitely solidified my interest in the rest of the series—I’ll be picking up the final installment when it releases, and likely circling back to the ones I missed. Highly recommended for fans of cozy monster romance. Many thanks to the author for this ARC. This is my honest review.
5/5 A cozy romance with a little extra heat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As I've been told I'm am avid lover of Elles 'sad boys' and the MMC of this book Beck is absolutely NO exception to this.
The Dragons Muse follows the story of 2 childhood friends Beck (whom we have previously met in other books in the series) a dragon shifter and the guardian of Starry Hill and Eleanor an attorney, coming over from the main land to help with the opening of a cakery. The two, previously were best friends in childhood until the day of Becks 13th birthday when he just disappears. All these years later they come back together and find that they are once again drawn to one another and this is a cozy and sweet view into their story.
I liked Eleanor a lot as she seems to be very level headed and sweet. She is always patient with Beck and loves books so like what's not to love about her? But of course the one I really loved in this book was Beck. There were so many qualities to Beck that I found myself relating to that it really made me fall for him. From the hard time he has communicating his feelings, to needing things directly said to him without using fluffy language so that he can understand, to even the way he shows he cares for the people he loves by baking his bread and hosting game nights. I found myself relating to all these things in myself as well and so every small struggle he has I felt like I could feel it, and like we were going through it together.
Elle has a great way of creating complex characters that show change and growth throughout her books and those always seem to be my favorites. Their depth keeps me coming back for more.
I feel like this book was a great addition to the overarching story elle has been cultivating in Starry Hill and it always feels like a treat to get a glimpse into this world.
The Dragons Muse follows the story of 2 childhood friends Beck (whom we have previously met in other books in the series) a dragon shifter and the guardian of Starry Hill and Eleanor an attorney, coming over from the main land to help with the opening of a cakery. The two, previously were best friends in childhood until the day of Becks 13th birthday when he just disappears. All these years later they come back together and find that they are once again drawn to one another and this is a cozy and sweet view into their story.
I liked Eleanor a lot as she seems to be very level headed and sweet. She is always patient with Beck and loves books so like what's not to love about her? But of course the one I really loved in this book was Beck. There were so many qualities to Beck that I found myself relating to that it really made me fall for him. From the hard time he has communicating his feelings, to needing things directly said to him without using fluffy language so that he can understand, to even the way he shows he cares for the people he loves by baking his bread and hosting game nights. I found myself relating to all these things in myself as well and so every small struggle he has I felt like I could feel it, and like we were going through it together.
Elle has a great way of creating complex characters that show change and growth throughout her books and those always seem to be my favorites. Their depth keeps me coming back for more.
I feel like this book was a great addition to the overarching story elle has been cultivating in Starry Hill and it always feels like a treat to get a glimpse into this world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Dragon's Muse by Elle Sterling [ARC Review]
5 🌟
Oh my sweet sweet Beck. I've loved the little glimpses into his character that we've gotten in the other Starry Hill books, and his book was just perfect. Beck is such a unique MMC, known for being very literal, and the way he and Eleanor learnt and adapted together to communicate as best they could was amazing. I loved how they both built on the friendship they had as kids and created something new as adults. Their relationship blossomed beautifully, and every first was spectacularly written 🩵
Not only do I love Beck and Eleanor with my whole heart, but there is such a payoff in this book within the Starry Hill community with the way that those slow-developing relationships and dynamics come to fruition. A love letter to community is the perfect way to describe this book. The way their friends gather to support them in different ways throughout this book is so sweet and feels like a warm hug.
Like all of Elle's books, I flew through this read - her writing draws me in, keeps me engaged and hanging onto every word. I am both so excited and so sad that there's only one book left in this series, but I know I'll be rereading them all. Plus, with Audrey as the FMC of the next one, you know it's gonna be a wild ride. 🙌🏻
Thank you, Elle, for giving me the privilege of reading this early, and I cannot implore you enough to pick this one up! It releases on March 28th, so you don't have long to wait!! 🩵🩵
5 🌟
Oh my sweet sweet Beck. I've loved the little glimpses into his character that we've gotten in the other Starry Hill books, and his book was just perfect. Beck is such a unique MMC, known for being very literal, and the way he and Eleanor learnt and adapted together to communicate as best they could was amazing. I loved how they both built on the friendship they had as kids and created something new as adults. Their relationship blossomed beautifully, and every first was spectacularly written 🩵
Not only do I love Beck and Eleanor with my whole heart, but there is such a payoff in this book within the Starry Hill community with the way that those slow-developing relationships and dynamics come to fruition. A love letter to community is the perfect way to describe this book. The way their friends gather to support them in different ways throughout this book is so sweet and feels like a warm hug.
Like all of Elle's books, I flew through this read - her writing draws me in, keeps me engaged and hanging onto every word. I am both so excited and so sad that there's only one book left in this series, but I know I'll be rereading them all. Plus, with Audrey as the FMC of the next one, you know it's gonna be a wild ride. 🙌🏻
Thank you, Elle, for giving me the privilege of reading this early, and I cannot implore you enough to pick this one up! It releases on March 28th, so you don't have long to wait!! 🩵🩵
March 31, 2026
“I thought I could write you poems before, but you deserve entire novels.”
Eleanor's an attorney who's in Starry Hill to help with a business. But she stumbled upon her childhood best friend, Beck whom she never saw in years. As they slowly reconnected, feelings surfaced and they started a relationship.
Ohhh this is hard for me to type but this is my least favorite in the series. But don't get this review hinder you from loving this book.
Let me preface this by saying I love both characters. I just didn't connect to them which was sad. I love Beck since the first book, he was gentle, he was bashful and seemed like a good person. Eleanor was a great FMC who deals with a soulless job, had traumas and yet she chose to be kind.
I kinda wish we saw more of Beck's past and his history, being a unique water dragon creature. Also I love that the author paid homage to the Korean mythology. I love me some Asian representation.
One thing about Starry Hill is that you always get to see cameos from different characters, the found family is still prominent here and I love the feeling of being in a wholesome community, and finding your place in this world. I believe that Eleanor came at the right time.
I cannot wait for the next and final book. I immediately messaged the author when I read the first book back in March 2025 because I wanted a book about Audrey, and she's getting one this year!!!
Eleanor's an attorney who's in Starry Hill to help with a business. But she stumbled upon her childhood best friend, Beck whom she never saw in years. As they slowly reconnected, feelings surfaced and they started a relationship.
Ohhh this is hard for me to type but this is my least favorite in the series. But don't get this review hinder you from loving this book.
Let me preface this by saying I love both characters. I just didn't connect to them which was sad. I love Beck since the first book, he was gentle, he was bashful and seemed like a good person. Eleanor was a great FMC who deals with a soulless job, had traumas and yet she chose to be kind.
I kinda wish we saw more of Beck's past and his history, being a unique water dragon creature. Also I love that the author paid homage to the Korean mythology. I love me some Asian representation.
One thing about Starry Hill is that you always get to see cameos from different characters, the found family is still prominent here and I love the feeling of being in a wholesome community, and finding your place in this world. I believe that Eleanor came at the right time.
I cannot wait for the next and final book. I immediately messaged the author when I read the first book back in March 2025 because I wanted a book about Audrey, and she's getting one this year!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was competing with The Incubus’s Angel for my favorite in the series! Honestly Ren and Beck are holding the number one spot together now as my favorite MMCs from Elle, I just can’t choose! I also have a soft spot for childhood best friends to lovers and this was done sooo well. When they recognized each other and called them the nicknames they had growing up, I was already in love with them. He was so soft with her, doing anything to make her happy and comfortable in her own skin. There’s nothing I love more than a devoted man desperate to please and Beck fit the bill perfectly! I also loved Eleanor’s journey with accepting herself and her curly hair. I went through a smiling time in my life, learning to love and embrace my hair so I really connected with her!
I absolutely loved them together and I loved seeing all their friends and community root and rally for them. It was so sweet, a small town, tight knit community will always warm my heart and Starry Hill is on of my absolute favorites. And when they finally confessed? Beck was a man unleashed, he couldn’t get enough of Eleanor. And the things he would say to her had me melting too. I loved seeing his confidence grow and how he would take charge and tease her during spicy scenes. There’s definitely some dragon spice in here too, so look forward to that! I have no complaints, I adored this book!
I absolutely loved them together and I loved seeing all their friends and community root and rally for them. It was so sweet, a small town, tight knit community will always warm my heart and Starry Hill is on of my absolute favorites. And when they finally confessed? Beck was a man unleashed, he couldn’t get enough of Eleanor. And the things he would say to her had me melting too. I loved seeing his confidence grow and how he would take charge and tease her during spicy scenes. There’s definitely some dragon spice in here too, so look forward to that! I have no complaints, I adored this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book feels like a sweet and cozy hug, but also, add some dragon peen to it 😏
I always love coming back to Starry Hill. I adore the characters, and Beck and Eleanor did not disappoint. They are both just so adorable and sweet and had me kicking my feet and giggling the entire time.
The plot was cute, we had childhood friends who reconnect and realized, there was something more. I loved seeing Beck come out of his shell more for Eleanor. Getting to see more of his loving personality (and his dirty mouth!). I felt for Eleanor and her situation and how desperately she just wanted to run away and move to Starry Hill (please take me with you, I would also like to run away to Starry Hill!).
The romance was romantic and adorable and again, I was just giggling the entire time reading it. But the spice? 😮💨 it did not disappoint. There were all kinds of fun surprises! Seriously, peen whiskers, who knew?
The set up for Audrey in the end was so excited and I literally cannot wait to get her story!
Starry Hill continues to be the cutest little hallmark monster romance series. If you want low stakes, feel good, kick your feet giggling (but also sweat when the spice hits 🥵) this series is for you!
I always love coming back to Starry Hill. I adore the characters, and Beck and Eleanor did not disappoint. They are both just so adorable and sweet and had me kicking my feet and giggling the entire time.
The plot was cute, we had childhood friends who reconnect and realized, there was something more. I loved seeing Beck come out of his shell more for Eleanor. Getting to see more of his loving personality (and his dirty mouth!). I felt for Eleanor and her situation and how desperately she just wanted to run away and move to Starry Hill (please take me with you, I would also like to run away to Starry Hill!).
The romance was romantic and adorable and again, I was just giggling the entire time reading it. But the spice? 😮💨 it did not disappoint. There were all kinds of fun surprises! Seriously, peen whiskers, who knew?
The set up for Audrey in the end was so excited and I literally cannot wait to get her story!
Starry Hill continues to be the cutest little hallmark monster romance series. If you want low stakes, feel good, kick your feet giggling (but also sweat when the spice hits 🥵) this series is for you!
March 31, 2026
The residents of Starry Hill just keep grabbing me by the heart and holding me close. I'll admit this one didn't hit as hard as quickly as the first two did but I was fully gripped by the end and just so incredibly happy for these childhood friends turned lovers. Reading through the books in order gave me such a beautiful connection with all these characters and watching them grow and learn and love and interact with one another and build their community has been so rewarding. All of these men are so cute. All these women are so fun and relatable.
Eleanor's need for approval and constant war with what she wants was refreshing to see. Super successful in all the ways that she was told were important while still longing for things that made her feel whole is something I think most people understand and her progression was written so well. Beck's awkwardness was so endearing and truly adorable. Much like Eleanor, I also love an autistic man so this was a real treat and the representation was nice to see. Sometimes people just need you to spell it out clearly, leave no room for misunderstanding, and support them while they figure it out. It was so real and it was beautiful. I am so ready for Audrey's chaos with Arran, let's goooooo
Eleanor's need for approval and constant war with what she wants was refreshing to see. Super successful in all the ways that she was told were important while still longing for things that made her feel whole is something I think most people understand and her progression was written so well. Beck's awkwardness was so endearing and truly adorable. Much like Eleanor, I also love an autistic man so this was a real treat and the representation was nice to see. Sometimes people just need you to spell it out clearly, leave no room for misunderstanding, and support them while they figure it out. It was so real and it was beautiful. I am so ready for Audrey's chaos with Arran, let's goooooo
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness. I was anticipating Beck's book since the beginning of this series and it did not disappoint! He's such a sweet, sad boy. And I absolutely related to him 100%. His experiences with neurodivergence and socializing are so similar it was almost like reading about myself. His little quirks were so endearing. No surprise Eleanor fell for him so hard! I loved his dragon and his scales. The way Elle described them showing up when he was feeling strong emotions was so fun!
This book is sweet and cozy but there's definitely some emotional moments. I knew they were coming but they still hit hard. It all works out in the end though. I knew Elle would put my heart back together with a HEA.
Starry Hill is a dream for anyone who loves those small town, found family feels. And it continued in this book. They're building a beautiful community and every day I cry a little that this place isn't real and I can't actually live there.
Audrey wasn't even in this book very much but those few parts she was present had me cracking up. Poor Arran isn't gonna know what hit him. 😆 And I'm gonna love reading every single moment of it.
This book is sweet and cozy but there's definitely some emotional moments. I knew they were coming but they still hit hard. It all works out in the end though. I knew Elle would put my heart back together with a HEA.
Starry Hill is a dream for anyone who loves those small town, found family feels. And it continued in this book. They're building a beautiful community and every day I cry a little that this place isn't real and I can't actually live there.
Audrey wasn't even in this book very much but those few parts she was present had me cracking up. Poor Arran isn't gonna know what hit him. 😆 And I'm gonna love reading every single moment of it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beck and Eleanor were best friends as kids, until one day Beck disappeared and never came back. What happens when fate brings them back together two decades later, when Beck finds Eleanor on the dock waiting to be taken to Starry Hill? lots of yearning, adorable awkwardness, and maybe a 🍆 whisker or two (yes you read that right) 🤭🤤🥹
I loooooove a good childhood friends to lovers trope! it’s so sweet! plus as always I love coming to Starry Hill and being in their world. We meet Beck back in the first book as a shy lonely water dragon shifter whose life revolved around working as the island’s guardian, so it was full circle to see him not only come out of his shell and evolve into a more confident man but to also see him get his happy ending with Eleanor. Eleanor is a cutie pie who is also very adorably awkward and shy, but grows into herself when she’s reunited with Beck and learns how to let go of others expectations of her. I always love how Elle incorporates her past characters into each book and how their dynamics play with the new characters 💖 I can’t wait for everyone love them like we do!
I loooooove a good childhood friends to lovers trope! it’s so sweet! plus as always I love coming to Starry Hill and being in their world. We meet Beck back in the first book as a shy lonely water dragon shifter whose life revolved around working as the island’s guardian, so it was full circle to see him not only come out of his shell and evolve into a more confident man but to also see him get his happy ending with Eleanor. Eleanor is a cutie pie who is also very adorably awkward and shy, but grows into herself when she’s reunited with Beck and learns how to let go of others expectations of her. I always love how Elle incorporates her past characters into each book and how their dynamics play with the new characters 💖 I can’t wait for everyone love them like we do!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So HAPPY to be back in Starry Hill with The Dragon's Muse, Elle has done it again with her cozy and Oh SO spicy creature rom-com.
Shinsu and Nori take pining to a whole new level while they rekindle their friendship and process their past hurts. It was a shorter read but didn't feel rushed as their relationship ship developed. If you know your love someone why waste time, right!?!
I truly enjoyed their adorable I don't want to bother you conversations and Shinsu needing direct communication. For what their words lacked at times their bodies were communicating fully...popping scales and lavender scents.
They both weren't truly comfortable in their own skins but together they grow into embracing and loving themslves fully. Looking their authentic selves. Duel struggle.
Found myself laughing several times while uttering 'I ducking love Audrey'. Everyone needs an Audrey in their lives as well as a Lucille, Maisie and Tilly.
And you know your limits, so read the author's content warnings. I received a copy of this book from Elle Sterling, and this is my honest review.
Shinsu and Nori take pining to a whole new level while they rekindle their friendship and process their past hurts. It was a shorter read but didn't feel rushed as their relationship ship developed. If you know your love someone why waste time, right!?!
I truly enjoyed their adorable I don't want to bother you conversations and Shinsu needing direct communication. For what their words lacked at times their bodies were communicating fully...popping scales and lavender scents.
They both weren't truly comfortable in their own skins but together they grow into embracing and loving themslves fully. Looking their authentic selves. Duel struggle.
Found myself laughing several times while uttering 'I ducking love Audrey'. Everyone needs an Audrey in their lives as well as a Lucille, Maisie and Tilly.
And you know your limits, so read the author's content warnings. I received a copy of this book from Elle Sterling, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Thank you to the Author for the ARC; all opinions are my own.**
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶
How great it is to be back in Starry Hills!!! I love this little island town so much, and it was great to get a glimpse into all of the characters lives again!! The Dragon's Muse follows Beck and Eleanor, estranged childhood friends who haven't seen each other in over 20 years. Both are a little shy with each other, unsure how to proceed with their blooming feelings- BUT! all their friends have their backs, and help them take the first steps! It was all very sweet 🥹 I related with Eleanor's need to please people, especially a parent that expects above and beyond from you and has conditions to their praise. I am so glad that she and Beck found each other again!!!
Also, the epilogue?! ☠️ the last book is going to be so much fun and I can't wait! 🤭💜
☆friends-to-lovers
☆dragon shifter x human
☆shifted spice
☆2 🍆
☆neurodivergent rep
☆bread baking
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶
How great it is to be back in Starry Hills!!! I love this little island town so much, and it was great to get a glimpse into all of the characters lives again!! The Dragon's Muse follows Beck and Eleanor, estranged childhood friends who haven't seen each other in over 20 years. Both are a little shy with each other, unsure how to proceed with their blooming feelings- BUT! all their friends have their backs, and help them take the first steps! It was all very sweet 🥹 I related with Eleanor's need to please people, especially a parent that expects above and beyond from you and has conditions to their praise. I am so glad that she and Beck found each other again!!!
Also, the epilogue?! ☠️ the last book is going to be so much fun and I can't wait! 🤭💜
☆friends-to-lovers
☆dragon shifter x human
☆shifted spice
☆2 🍆
☆neurodivergent rep
☆bread baking
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: 3 🌶️
Tropes: dragon x human • childhood friends to lovers • found family • hurt/comfort for both mcs • two appendages
I received an advance review copy (ARC) and am sharing my honest, unbiased review.
This book is the equivalent of a long warm, lavender-scented bath. It felt so good reading this love story. Because that's what it is - a love story through and through.
True to Elle Sterling's style, it's cozy, sweet, and low angst. But Beck and Eleanor still have to navigate getting to know each other again - complete with the rocky shores of being neurospicy. Beck is literal to the extreme, and Eleanor is broken down by life.
I've loved Beck from afar through the other books, and I loved getting to know him up close and personal - and the way the entire Starry Hill community came together to make this couple happen? Pure heart-eyes 😍
Safe to say, I was giggling, squealing, and sighing my way through this one ❤️
This book is for you if you want a true, feelgood love story with some nice spicy moments ❤️
Spice: 3 🌶️
Tropes: dragon x human • childhood friends to lovers • found family • hurt/comfort for both mcs • two appendages
I received an advance review copy (ARC) and am sharing my honest, unbiased review.
This book is the equivalent of a long warm, lavender-scented bath. It felt so good reading this love story. Because that's what it is - a love story through and through.
True to Elle Sterling's style, it's cozy, sweet, and low angst. But Beck and Eleanor still have to navigate getting to know each other again - complete with the rocky shores of being neurospicy. Beck is literal to the extreme, and Eleanor is broken down by life.
I've loved Beck from afar through the other books, and I loved getting to know him up close and personal - and the way the entire Starry Hill community came together to make this couple happen? Pure heart-eyes 😍
Safe to say, I was giggling, squealing, and sighing my way through this one ❤️
This book is for you if you want a true, feelgood love story with some nice spicy moments ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
Two friends finding each other again after two decades. Two lonely souls trying to rekindle the spark that has always been there. A dragon and his muse finding refuge in each others arms and hearts.
I was so excited for Eleanor's and Beck's story and Elle delivered the most tender, beautiful and heartwarming story I could possibly have hoped for. Both Eleanor and Beck struggle with fitting in, but Starry Hill welcomes everyone unconditionally and provides the perfect setting for Beck and Eleanor to become who they were always meant to be.
As always, Elle made me feel all the feels for her characters, you can't help but fall in love with from the very start.
If you like neurodivergent characters, hilarious inner monologues, swoony MMCs, aaaaall the yearning and sizzling spice with extra special fun time equipment, out "The Dragon's Muse" on your TBR!!
I was so excited for Eleanor's and Beck's story and Elle delivered the most tender, beautiful and heartwarming story I could possibly have hoped for. Both Eleanor and Beck struggle with fitting in, but Starry Hill welcomes everyone unconditionally and provides the perfect setting for Beck and Eleanor to become who they were always meant to be.
As always, Elle made me feel all the feels for her characters, you can't help but fall in love with from the very start.
If you like neurodivergent characters, hilarious inner monologues, swoony MMCs, aaaaall the yearning and sizzling spice with extra special fun time equipment, out "The Dragon's Muse" on your TBR!!
March 28, 2026
This is the book you wanna read if you've been curious about our handsome dragon ferryman! Beck and Eleanor's story is a sweet one and a wonderful instance of falling in love in the place you call home. Their love doesn't come easy, as both have hurdles they have to cross to understand each other, but the yearning through it all is absolutely worth it in the end!
I was swooning over how protective Beck is of her and the many ways in which he helps her be comfortable. Our hard working lawyer appreciates seeing her friend again, while trying not to fall too deep as she comes to understand the magic of Starry Hill. Elle also does a beautiful job of bringing in old friends, a wave of found family moments, and a bond between the community that makes you never wanna leave!
For readers looking for a soft and cozy romance, add this to your list!
I was swooning over how protective Beck is of her and the many ways in which he helps her be comfortable. Our hard working lawyer appreciates seeing her friend again, while trying not to fall too deep as she comes to understand the magic of Starry Hill. Elle also does a beautiful job of bringing in old friends, a wave of found family moments, and a bond between the community that makes you never wanna leave!
For readers looking for a soft and cozy romance, add this to your list!
March 29, 2026
I was so excited to return to Starry Hill with another book in the Creatures and Cottages series, and this one did not disappoint. There’s just something so comforting about stepping back into this world, and it felt like coming home.
I really enjoyed getting to know Beck on a deeper level and learning more about his past. Watching him reconnect with Eleanor after so many years was incredibly heartwarming. Their story had such an emotional pull, especially seeing Eleanor finally begin to find herself and break free from the life that had been chosen for her.
One of my favorite parts, as always, was seeing familiar faces from previous books show up to support them along the way. It added that extra layer of charm and connection that makes this series so special.
Thank you to the author for the ARC— all opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed getting to know Beck on a deeper level and learning more about his past. Watching him reconnect with Eleanor after so many years was incredibly heartwarming. Their story had such an emotional pull, especially seeing Eleanor finally begin to find herself and break free from the life that had been chosen for her.
One of my favorite parts, as always, was seeing familiar faces from previous books show up to support them along the way. It added that extra layer of charm and connection that makes this series so special.
Thank you to the author for the ARC— all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love the town of Starry Hill and all of the creatures that reside there, but Beck holds a special place in my heart 🧡 Eleanor and Beck grow so much together throughout the book and their love for each other is so apparent you can feel it off the page. If you love cozy, monster romance vibes this is the book for you! Each book can be read as standalone, but you will regret not getting to know each couple through each of their stories.
-dragon/human
-childhood friends to lovers
-found family
-neurodivergent representation
-plus size representation
-two peens (and peen whiskers) 👀
-s*x in shifted form
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️/5
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
-dragon/human
-childhood friends to lovers
-found family
-neurodivergent representation
-plus size representation
-two peens (and peen whiskers) 👀
-s*x in shifted form
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️/5
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, but the Starry Hill community is small town goals. 🤩
For the third installment of the Creatures & Cottages series, we finally get Beck's story. After twenty-two years apart, Beck (Shinsu) is reunited with his childhood best friend and first love, Eleanor (Nori). The red-haired girl from his youth is now a corporate lawyer feeling stuck and uphappy in her miserable job. Thankfully, Nori can escape to Starry Hill at the weekends.
These two take pining to a whole new level. Their chemistry slowly burns while Shinsu and Nori rekindle their friendship and process their past hurts. When it finally ignites though, the payoff is so good! And...there are whiskers 😂
For the third installment of the Creatures & Cottages series, we finally get Beck's story. After twenty-two years apart, Beck (Shinsu) is reunited with his childhood best friend and first love, Eleanor (Nori). The red-haired girl from his youth is now a corporate lawyer feeling stuck and uphappy in her miserable job. Thankfully, Nori can escape to Starry Hill at the weekends.
These two take pining to a whole new level. Their chemistry slowly burns while Shinsu and Nori rekindle their friendship and process their past hurts. When it finally ignites though, the payoff is so good! And...there are whiskers 😂
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC but all thoughts are my own.
This book so good! I was excited to learn more about Beck, and I love that his story was friends to lovers with second chance romance thrown it. I felt like it really fit his character. I love Eleanor! She's the perfect match for our dragon. Watching them reconnect and fall in love was something special. And I loved watching Eleanor become more confident in herself.
This was a really sweet story but don't be fooled. The spice was just right. I loved visiting Starry Hill again and catching up with the other monsters and humans of the island. I love that with each book we learn more about the island and those that live there.
This book so good! I was excited to learn more about Beck, and I love that his story was friends to lovers with second chance romance thrown it. I felt like it really fit his character. I love Eleanor! She's the perfect match for our dragon. Watching them reconnect and fall in love was something special. And I loved watching Eleanor become more confident in herself.
This was a really sweet story but don't be fooled. The spice was just right. I loved visiting Starry Hill again and catching up with the other monsters and humans of the island. I love that with each book we learn more about the island and those that live there.
March 26, 2026
There’s truly something so special about returning to Starry Hill. Elle Sterling has managed to create the absolute sweetest and coziest little island filled with the most unique and wonderful characters that’ll make you want to move there yourself! Oh and might I mention some of the spiciest scenes you’ll ever lay your eyes on?? 😂🩷🔥
Beck (Shinsu) and Elenor’s story was so adorable and reading how these childhood best friends reunite and become inseparable was just so sweet and fun. I was kicking my feet the whole time. 🥹
I cannot WAIT for Audrey and Arran next but at the end of the day, if Elle Sterling writes it, IM READING IT! 👏✨🐉
Beck (Shinsu) and Elenor’s story was so adorable and reading how these childhood best friends reunite and become inseparable was just so sweet and fun. I was kicking my feet the whole time. 🥹
I cannot WAIT for Audrey and Arran next but at the end of the day, if Elle Sterling writes it, IM READING IT! 👏✨🐉
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think this one is my favorite of the series.
I loved Beck (Shinsu). Helpless dragon trying to win Eleanor's heart. Swoooooon.
The book can be read as a standalone, but it's always better to know the other characters. I would suggest reading the other books (in order, look at me suggesting to read series in order).
Pick it up for:
- Monster X Human romance + spice (wait for it, it's worth it)
- Cute small town shenanigans
- Found family
Thank you to the author for the eARC. This review is my own, and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
I loved Beck (Shinsu). Helpless dragon trying to win Eleanor's heart. Swoooooon.
The book can be read as a standalone, but it's always better to know the other characters. I would suggest reading the other books (in order, look at me suggesting to read series in order).
Pick it up for:
- Monster X Human romance + spice (wait for it, it's worth it)
- Cute small town shenanigans
- Found family
Thank you to the author for the eARC. This review is my own, and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh our sweet sensitive dragon, Beck 💗 This was such a sweet and fun new addition to the Creatures & Cottages series. Eleanor and Beck are just as perfect for each other as the couples that have come before them. I loved that they were finding each other again after being childhood best friends, those memories were absolutely adorable to get to relive alongside our characters.
This book is a 10/10 recommend from me, and I simultaneously can't wait for the next book but also don't want it to come because that'll mean the end of this sweet island.
This book is a 10/10 recommend from me, and I simultaneously can't wait for the next book but also don't want it to come because that'll mean the end of this sweet island.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ARC read this book and this is my honest review
I wish I could live in Starry Hill. This book was such a cozy, lovely read. Beck and Eleanor felt so perfect for each other, and I really enjoyed watching their personal growth throughout the story. It was especially nice seeing them build their own friendships and come into themselves more. I can’t wait for the next book!
I wish I could live in Starry Hill. This book was such a cozy, lovely read. Beck and Eleanor felt so perfect for each other, and I really enjoyed watching their personal growth throughout the story. It was especially nice seeing them build their own friendships and come into themselves more. I can’t wait for the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
I absolutely loved reading Beck & Nori’s story! Reading about Starry Hill always makes me want to live there, but the way Elle wrote this book made me crave such a unique and cozy place to live. Thank you to Elle for creating such a warm, welcoming world for us to visit in the pages of this series!
I absolutely loved reading Beck & Nori’s story! Reading about Starry Hill always makes me want to live there, but the way Elle wrote this book made me crave such a unique and cozy place to live. Thank you to Elle for creating such a warm, welcoming world for us to visit in the pages of this series!
March 27, 2026
**ARC Reader**
This was so sweet I could eat it with a spoon, oh my goodness. Elenor and Beck’s relationship was so sweet and mostly healthy 💕 I just want to move away to a small island full of monsters 💕
If you want a cozy monster cottage core romance this and the first two you will rip through them so quickly and be waiting the next one as bad as the rest of us.
This was so sweet I could eat it with a spoon, oh my goodness. Elenor and Beck’s relationship was so sweet and mostly healthy 💕 I just want to move away to a small island full of monsters 💕
If you want a cozy monster cottage core romance this and the first two you will rip through them so quickly and be waiting the next one as bad as the rest of us.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book.
This book is everything. Beck has always been so sweet when we’ve seen him in the previous books, and now he finally gets his happy ending with Eleanor. They are the sweetest, cutest, weird little dudes and I love them.
And the spicy scene when Beck is in his water dragon shifted form?!? Don’t even get me started. Top tier.
This book is everything. Beck has always been so sweet when we’ve seen him in the previous books, and now he finally gets his happy ending with Eleanor. They are the sweetest, cutest, weird little dudes and I love them.
And the spicy scene when Beck is in his water dragon shifted form?!? Don’t even get me started. Top tier.
March 29, 2026
The YEARNING
Another amazing installment into this lovely series. I loved all of the small nods to culture in this one for Beck, it was very neat to see. Elle does so many tropes so well and this book is no exception! I'm generally not a huge yearning fan but this might convert me. The whole book is what I needed to end a rough weekend. Loved it.
Another amazing installment into this lovely series. I loved all of the small nods to culture in this one for Beck, it was very neat to see. Elle does so many tropes so well and this book is no exception! I'm generally not a huge yearning fan but this might convert me. The whole book is what I needed to end a rough weekend. Loved it.
March 26, 2026
The way I have been not so patiently waiting for this book is kinda crazy. To say I loved it is an understatement once I actually had time to sit down and read I didn’t put it down. I just finished and already can not wait for the next installment in the series. I love Elle’s writing so much. 🫶🏼
March 28, 2026
And we’re back in Starry Hill with The Dragon’s Muse, the latest release by the incredible Elle Sterling. Beck and Eleanor grow so much throughout this book. I loved seeing them find their own voice, individually and as a couple. And of course, loved seeing all the Starry Hill residents.
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