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A Dragon Outside: Morntag Dragons & Kingdoms Book 2
Traitors. Kings. Monsters. Love. What will it take to defeat a growing darkness?
Deryk
Returning home to the mountains had been the logical choice after the chaos in Alford, but I can't forget Ellie the way I thought I needed to. And now that shadow monsters are attacking again, she might be our kingdom's only hope for survival.
Ellie
Solvar is finally safe from my cousin's scheming and we've established a friendship--if fragile--with Mrita. I'm risking more than ever in politics, with my brother, and in publicity, but I'm happy with the way events are shifting. I just wish the situation with Deryk had ended differently.
New experiences, dragons, mythical creatures, family relationships, life and death moments, conflicting desires, and imperfect characters weave together in this world where magic, light, and dark constantly battle for reign. Who will survive the monsters? Who will rule the kingdoms? And will the final results be worth the cost?
A Dragon Outside concludes Deryk and Ellie's story (don't worry--other characters have their own books coming still)! This book is a no-spice fantasy romance with high stakes, adult characters, a slow-burn love story, incredible magic, deep lore, love, betrayals, and overcoming impossible odds. It is the second half of a duology. The slow-burn, no-spice romance is perfect for fans of books by authors like Tara Grayce and K.M. Shea.
Deryk
Returning home to the mountains had been the logical choice after the chaos in Alford, but I can't forget Ellie the way I thought I needed to. And now that shadow monsters are attacking again, she might be our kingdom's only hope for survival.
Ellie
Solvar is finally safe from my cousin's scheming and we've established a friendship--if fragile--with Mrita. I'm risking more than ever in politics, with my brother, and in publicity, but I'm happy with the way events are shifting. I just wish the situation with Deryk had ended differently.
New experiences, dragons, mythical creatures, family relationships, life and death moments, conflicting desires, and imperfect characters weave together in this world where magic, light, and dark constantly battle for reign. Who will survive the monsters? Who will rule the kingdoms? And will the final results be worth the cost?
A Dragon Outside concludes Deryk and Ellie's story (don't worry--other characters have their own books coming still)! This book is a no-spice fantasy romance with high stakes, adult characters, a slow-burn love story, incredible magic, deep lore, love, betrayals, and overcoming impossible odds. It is the second half of a duology. The slow-burn, no-spice romance is perfect for fans of books by authors like Tara Grayce and K.M. Shea.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
19 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Anabelle Raven
16 books61 followersI write heart-pounding, fantasy adventure books with sweet romance (no spice)!
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 23, 2025
Deryk and Ellie are my favorites.
Why?
Because they feel real.
They have miscommunications (not the trope), they talk through their feelings, they fight for each other and sometimes with each other. They forgive and kiss and makeup and it's amazing.
It. Felt. Real.
and I think that's what I love most about this book and anything written by Anabelle Raven, is that I am sucked into the story immediately because the emotions are so real and relatable.
One moment I'm there with Ellie learning about her new powers and trying to figure out her feelings.
The next I'm with Deryk, struggling to forgive and understand the actions of others.
and boy oh boy when they kiss?!? 🔥🔥🔥🔥
There are so many beautiful poignant scenes in this book that wrap up the Duology of Ellie and Deryk's romance so well.
And so many teasers for the next ones! I need them already!!!
That protective older brother? yeah I need him to fall in love already.
The mystery of nighthawk? TELL ME MORE!!!
I am so invested in this world it's unbelievable. *chants* more books! more books! more books!
💋kisses only
⚠️read the author note at the beginning of the book for content guidance
Why?
Because they feel real.
They have miscommunications (not the trope), they talk through their feelings, they fight for each other and sometimes with each other. They forgive and kiss and makeup and it's amazing.
It. Felt. Real.
and I think that's what I love most about this book and anything written by Anabelle Raven, is that I am sucked into the story immediately because the emotions are so real and relatable.
One moment I'm there with Ellie learning about her new powers and trying to figure out her feelings.
The next I'm with Deryk, struggling to forgive and understand the actions of others.
and boy oh boy when they kiss?!? 🔥🔥🔥🔥
There are so many beautiful poignant scenes in this book that wrap up the Duology of Ellie and Deryk's romance so well.
And so many teasers for the next ones! I need them already!!!
That protective older brother? yeah I need him to fall in love already.
The mystery of nighthawk? TELL ME MORE!!!
I am so invested in this world it's unbelievable. *chants* more books! more books! more books!
💋kisses only
⚠️read the author note at the beginning of the book for content guidance
September 16, 2025
Yeesss!!!! This is the story I wanted!! What an amazing love story and adventure. There are dragons and shadow creatures and new family and healing of kingdoms. I even cried for a character I wasn’t expecting (which says a lot for me). This is the 2nd book and if you want to read this definitely read the 1st book A Dragon Inside! If you love closed door romance, dragons, epic battles, mystery then this is adventure for you!!
September 13, 2025
If you are going to write an epic duology filled with romance and magic, this! This lovely readers! Is how it’s done! There is magic and darkness! Fierce and deadly battles! Crazy cool creatures! Betrayal and forgiveness! Love and loyalty! And all the other awesome and wonderful things a groundbreaking epic fantasy should have!
Elly and Deryk have went their own ways. And neither one is happy about the distance. But when shadow monsters of legend begin to attack their lives are about to become entwined once again. But betrayal and anger seem to stalk their relationship and it quickly becomes clear that shadow monsters aren’t Elly and Deryk’s only worry.
My absolute favorite aspect of this series is the romance! Oh The romance in this duology is absolute perfection! Elly and Deryk are just completely wonderful and their relationship is truly sweet and oh so swoony! If you are looking for a romance that will make your heart sing then you NEED to read this duology!
I also love the characters! Elly and Deryk are just *chef’s kiss*! But Raven has also created some fantastic side characters and she really brings them to life. She has a way of creating characters that you cant help but fall in love with and truly care about.
Then there were the creatures. I love that the dragons play a more background role in this series. Dragons aren’t my normal creature of choice, but I can enjoy them if they are written just right and Raven wrote them to perfectly compliment the story, but not overshadow it. I love! Love! Loved! the shadow creatures! They were awesome, and unique, and they brought some fun lore to the story.
But let’s not forget about the Magic! The magic is awesome in this duology! We only got a glimpse of it in A Dragon Inside but in A Dragon Outside we get to delve into several unique and interesting magics. And I enjoyed every single aspect of it.
So…yep…I laughed! I cried! I felt hope and despair! And I finished with my heart a flutter and my soul rejoicing! Seriously A Dragon Outside had not only the ending I hoped for, but an ending that was so satisfying that it completely blew my hopes out of the proverbial water. And you NEED to read it!!!
Elly and Deryk have went their own ways. And neither one is happy about the distance. But when shadow monsters of legend begin to attack their lives are about to become entwined once again. But betrayal and anger seem to stalk their relationship and it quickly becomes clear that shadow monsters aren’t Elly and Deryk’s only worry.
My absolute favorite aspect of this series is the romance! Oh The romance in this duology is absolute perfection! Elly and Deryk are just completely wonderful and their relationship is truly sweet and oh so swoony! If you are looking for a romance that will make your heart sing then you NEED to read this duology!
I also love the characters! Elly and Deryk are just *chef’s kiss*! But Raven has also created some fantastic side characters and she really brings them to life. She has a way of creating characters that you cant help but fall in love with and truly care about.
Then there were the creatures. I love that the dragons play a more background role in this series. Dragons aren’t my normal creature of choice, but I can enjoy them if they are written just right and Raven wrote them to perfectly compliment the story, but not overshadow it. I love! Love! Loved! the shadow creatures! They were awesome, and unique, and they brought some fun lore to the story.
But let’s not forget about the Magic! The magic is awesome in this duology! We only got a glimpse of it in A Dragon Inside but in A Dragon Outside we get to delve into several unique and interesting magics. And I enjoyed every single aspect of it.
So…yep…I laughed! I cried! I felt hope and despair! And I finished with my heart a flutter and my soul rejoicing! Seriously A Dragon Outside had not only the ending I hoped for, but an ending that was so satisfying that it completely blew my hopes out of the proverbial water. And you NEED to read it!!!
September 13, 2025
This was a thrilling installment to the Morntag Dragons & Kingdoms series! I've been waiting for Book 2 ever since I finished reading A Dragon Inside and I went and re-read that before reading this one and it was even better reading it the second time! This book was an excellent addition to Deryk and Ellie's story and I loved every part of it.
I would say that this book is definitely more fast-paced than the first one, which made it even nicer in my opinion, since I love fast-paced books. But the best thing about it was that even though it is really fast-paced with a lot of battling lispeths and shadow monsters, Anabelle paced it so well that I felt the relationships were well-developed, the romantic moments were so sweet, and the humour was amazing and lit up the dark situations.
Getting introduced to Deryk's best friend, Thad, was incredible. I love Thad's humour and jokes and his love and support for his friend. He is definitely one of my favourite characters and I really hope that he gets his own story.
Then, there's Deryk's youngest sister, Batrice. I loved Batrice so much! She's so joyful and light-hearted and fun and a great friend to Ellie. I really enjoyed her personality and I also hope that she gets her own story someday.
I also really loved Drychor. He's such a sweet boy and I love his devotion and adoration of Ellie. And then there's also all the other side characters who added so much depth to the story. I loved Eliathar, Lilith, Crispin, Auger and all the other knights that helped Ellie in the previous installment, and anyone else I've definitely missed. They definitely made the story what it is now. Even though they are only side characters, Anabelle really gave them thought, personality, motivations, and they made the story so much more interesting and exciting.
Overall, this was an excellent book and I can't wait for the next one!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a review but I am voluntarily doing so because I love this book so much and a lot of people need to know of it too!
I would say that this book is definitely more fast-paced than the first one, which made it even nicer in my opinion, since I love fast-paced books. But the best thing about it was that even though it is really fast-paced with a lot of battling lispeths and shadow monsters, Anabelle paced it so well that I felt the relationships were well-developed, the romantic moments were so sweet, and the humour was amazing and lit up the dark situations.
Getting introduced to Deryk's best friend, Thad, was incredible. I love Thad's humour and jokes and his love and support for his friend. He is definitely one of my favourite characters and I really hope that he gets his own story.
Then, there's Deryk's youngest sister, Batrice. I loved Batrice so much! She's so joyful and light-hearted and fun and a great friend to Ellie. I really enjoyed her personality and I also hope that she gets her own story someday.
I also really loved Drychor. He's such a sweet boy and I love his devotion and adoration of Ellie. And then there's also all the other side characters who added so much depth to the story. I loved Eliathar, Lilith, Crispin, Auger and all the other knights that helped Ellie in the previous installment, and anyone else I've definitely missed. They definitely made the story what it is now. Even though they are only side characters, Anabelle really gave them thought, personality, motivations, and they made the story so much more interesting and exciting.
Overall, this was an excellent book and I can't wait for the next one!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a review but I am voluntarily doing so because I love this book so much and a lot of people need to know of it too!
October 3, 2025
This story was so amazing! I didn't want to put it down when I was reading! This story had a little bit of everything: romance, political intrigue, mystery, family dynamics.
The themes of trust, forgiveness, and love were beautifully intricate! I loved how everything was woven together in this story!
I was a little annoyed at Ellie for being so angry at first (and holding that anger/distrust for so long), but I could also understand it. Sometimes things that are kind of logical, can still be a tad frustrating when reading, right? I still love her character though - she is intelligent, brave, generous, kind. I love that she is both strong and feminine, something lacking in literature today!
Daryck was wonderful, just like the first book. His selflessness, generosity, protectiveness, and bravery make him a very dashing MMC.
I will honestly say my two favorite characters are Brindon and Beatrice! I hope we see book(s) for them in this series! Batrice is so sweet and spunky! I love her attitude. Brindon is such a wonderful character - kind, strong, and brave! I Look forward to reading more about them (please!)
I don't want to give anything away about the plot, but it was very, very well done. You need to read the first book before you can read this one, so you can have a better understanding of the plot and the relationships in the book.
I am intrigued to see if we see things about other kingdoms as well, especially a certain kingdom we got to visit in this story (if only briefly)
I was so excited for this story after reading A Dragon Inside and it DID NOT DISAPPOINT.
Anabelle Raven is a very gifted author and I recommend this story to anyone who loves Romantasy and books with dragons/magic!
I received an ARC from the author,all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The themes of trust, forgiveness, and love were beautifully intricate! I loved how everything was woven together in this story!
I was a little annoyed at Ellie for being so angry at first (and holding that anger/distrust for so long), but I could also understand it. Sometimes things that are kind of logical, can still be a tad frustrating when reading, right? I still love her character though - she is intelligent, brave, generous, kind. I love that she is both strong and feminine, something lacking in literature today!
Daryck was wonderful, just like the first book. His selflessness, generosity, protectiveness, and bravery make him a very dashing MMC.
I will honestly say my two favorite characters are Brindon and Beatrice! I hope we see book(s) for them in this series! Batrice is so sweet and spunky! I love her attitude. Brindon is such a wonderful character - kind, strong, and brave! I Look forward to reading more about them (please!)
I don't want to give anything away about the plot, but it was very, very well done. You need to read the first book before you can read this one, so you can have a better understanding of the plot and the relationships in the book.
I am intrigued to see if we see things about other kingdoms as well, especially a certain kingdom we got to visit in this story (if only briefly)
I was so excited for this story after reading A Dragon Inside and it DID NOT DISAPPOINT.
Anabelle Raven is a very gifted author and I recommend this story to anyone who loves Romantasy and books with dragons/magic!
I received an ARC from the author,all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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November 5, 2025I loved this book so much! The romance was beautiful! The pacing of the relationship was so good, with lots of moments of emotional vulnerability spread throughout the book in a believable way. I adored how quickly . And Batris just
And there were a bunch of really fun side characters!
About the only things I didn't like were
the initial separation between the MCs. As usual though Anabelle is good about not dragging that out. And the reunion and relationship growth wouldn't have felt as meaningful without that initial separation anyway.
that . That particular trope kinda always feels cheep to me, no matter how it's implemented.
And there were a bunch of really fun side characters!
About the only things I didn't like were
But other than those two things, neither of which are really criticisms of the story so much as personal preferences, this book was utterly amazing and beautiful. I just felt really happy and content when I finished it. Highly recommend.
September 30, 2025
"Sometimes the only way to move forward is to look backwards, name the dragons who would hold you in the past, stare into their eyes, and defy them."
A Dragon Outside is a first person, dual POV, epic fantasy romance. This is the second book in the Morntag Dragons & Kingdoms series and it's definitely best if you read these in order.
In this book we get the conclusion of Deryk and Ellie's story. And like A Dragon Inside, this one also did not disappoint. I can't say enough how much I recommend this duology to all fantasy lovers.
The writing is beyond beautiful, and it kept me engaged and entertained. It was action packed with tons of edge of your seat adventure. The characters were fun and easy to relate to. I absolutely loved Thad as a side character and hope to see much more of him in future books. Brindon, however, is still my absolute favorite. He's so sweet, kindhearted, and not quick to anger....unless you mess with his sister, then you better watch out. Don't get me wrong, I love a good romance, but I also immensely enjoy when a story includes an enviable sibling relationship like we see here. Fingers crossed that Brindon gets his own story soon!
This book had everything a person could want in a fantasy; adventure, amazing world building, lovable characters, a good amount of humor, love, forgiveness, redemption, and of course dragons! 🐉
I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts
A Dragon Outside is a first person, dual POV, epic fantasy romance. This is the second book in the Morntag Dragons & Kingdoms series and it's definitely best if you read these in order.
In this book we get the conclusion of Deryk and Ellie's story. And like A Dragon Inside, this one also did not disappoint. I can't say enough how much I recommend this duology to all fantasy lovers.
The writing is beyond beautiful, and it kept me engaged and entertained. It was action packed with tons of edge of your seat adventure. The characters were fun and easy to relate to. I absolutely loved Thad as a side character and hope to see much more of him in future books. Brindon, however, is still my absolute favorite. He's so sweet, kindhearted, and not quick to anger....unless you mess with his sister, then you better watch out. Don't get me wrong, I love a good romance, but I also immensely enjoy when a story includes an enviable sibling relationship like we see here. Fingers crossed that Brindon gets his own story soon!
This book had everything a person could want in a fantasy; adventure, amazing world building, lovable characters, a good amount of humor, love, forgiveness, redemption, and of course dragons! 🐉
I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts
September 9, 2025
This no spice fantasy romance was an amazing conclusion to Deryk and Ellie's story from A Dragon Inside! We saw more snippets of Solvar's past and how it's interfering with the kingdoms present. There were dangerous battles with scary monsters, a traitor that betrayed for the goodness of the kingdom, friendships and relationships more magical than any bond, and characters overcoming fear in various degrees. There were scenes that I uncontrollably sobbed, and ones where I giggled in delight. This series did not disappoint with its wonderful world building and character developments!
With Deryk and Ellie in their own kingdoms they try to return to a normal life. However, all they can think about is each other. When it's discovered that there are tears in the magical barrier that keeps all of Solvar safe Deryk reaches out to Ellie's brother, Brindon, for help to fight off the shadow monsters that leak through. But when it's discovered that a traitor is in their midst, it could destroy the kingdoms.
Will they be able to defeat the darkness and figure out how to repair the barrier in time?
I received an ARC with no expectation of a review.
All opinions are my own.
With Deryk and Ellie in their own kingdoms they try to return to a normal life. However, all they can think about is each other. When it's discovered that there are tears in the magical barrier that keeps all of Solvar safe Deryk reaches out to Ellie's brother, Brindon, for help to fight off the shadow monsters that leak through. But when it's discovered that a traitor is in their midst, it could destroy the kingdoms.
Will they be able to defeat the darkness and figure out how to repair the barrier in time?
I received an ARC with no expectation of a review.
All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2025
We rejoin Deryk as he returns home to the mountains, leaving Ellie behind. Four months pass without any communication and when Deryk does finally reach out it may be too late.
Ellie had waited for Deryk’s promised letter, and waited, and waited. After such a long wait she grew cold towards him.
They are brought back together when an old foe reappears and Deryk must depend on Ellie’s assistance in protecting his people and their home.
This story was well written and I may like it even more than A Dragon Inside, which is hard to beat because I love that story.
But this story takes us to Deryk’s home, we see him in his element. We meet his people and learn more about the folks who live in the mountains. This book had me at the edge of my seat, it drew cries of cheers, and tears of goodbye, and has left me with the biggest of book hangovers.
A Dragon Outside concludes Deryk and Ellie's story (don't worry--other characters have their own books coming still)! This book is a no-spice fantasy romance with high stakes, adult characters, a slow-burn love story, incredible magic, deep lore, love, betrayals, and overcoming impossible odds. It is the second half of a duology.
Ellie had waited for Deryk’s promised letter, and waited, and waited. After such a long wait she grew cold towards him.
They are brought back together when an old foe reappears and Deryk must depend on Ellie’s assistance in protecting his people and their home.
This story was well written and I may like it even more than A Dragon Inside, which is hard to beat because I love that story.
But this story takes us to Deryk’s home, we see him in his element. We meet his people and learn more about the folks who live in the mountains. This book had me at the edge of my seat, it drew cries of cheers, and tears of goodbye, and has left me with the biggest of book hangovers.
A Dragon Outside concludes Deryk and Ellie's story (don't worry--other characters have their own books coming still)! This book is a no-spice fantasy romance with high stakes, adult characters, a slow-burn love story, incredible magic, deep lore, love, betrayals, and overcoming impossible odds. It is the second half of a duology.
September 14, 2025
While I may sometimes read the day away, it’s normally with a great amount of guilt since I should be doing something else. In this case, though, I have had a fairly debilitating cold and was able to while away time most pleasantly in the world of Solvar that Raven has so thoughtfully created. It was wonderful to dive into this story, forgetting my woes and stopped up nose, and just relish the magic of a well-written book.
What a beautiful second half of the duology A Dragon Outside has proved to be. I adored it. I am also beyond excited to see that we will get to revisit this world and characters we met here in future books. I can’t wait!
Violence: betrayal. Some death. Some fighting of creatures.
Romance: kisses only, and no spice. The author lists this in the beginning of the book, and I appreciate that.
I did receive an early copy of this book, but I was going to read it anyway. In fact, I only have this copy because I couldn’t wait another moment and begged on figurative bended knee to read it early. ; )
What a beautiful second half of the duology A Dragon Outside has proved to be. I adored it. I am also beyond excited to see that we will get to revisit this world and characters we met here in future books. I can’t wait!
Violence: betrayal. Some death. Some fighting of creatures.
Romance: kisses only, and no spice. The author lists this in the beginning of the book, and I appreciate that.
I did receive an early copy of this book, but I was going to read it anyway. In fact, I only have this copy because I couldn’t wait another moment and begged on figurative bended knee to read it early. ; )
September 27, 2025
So thankful to the author for the ARC of this book, releasing 9/30/2025
“The fact that such a difficult experience lies in your path is evidence that you are strong enough to conquer it.”
I adore this book. It was such a lovely continuation of A Dragon Inside. We pick right back up with Deryk and Ellie right where book one left off. I loved the themes in this book of trust and reconciliation and breaking generational curses. I loved the story and the characters so much. This was definitely a page turner. There was action and romance. And this was one of the more steamy, or passionate, romances Anabelle has written (in my opinion). Anabelle writes no-spice romance so there is nothing explicit but their love for one another was evident. I love the plot of this book and the duology of Deryk & Ellie’s story. I feel like there’s more to the continent and I can’t wait to see what is next for Anabelle Raven!
💖 closed door, steamy not spicy, nondescriptive kisses & embraces.
🫢 clean language
CW/TW: death, loss of family members, grief, assassins, murder, torture, betrayal, revenge
“The fact that such a difficult experience lies in your path is evidence that you are strong enough to conquer it.”
I adore this book. It was such a lovely continuation of A Dragon Inside. We pick right back up with Deryk and Ellie right where book one left off. I loved the themes in this book of trust and reconciliation and breaking generational curses. I loved the story and the characters so much. This was definitely a page turner. There was action and romance. And this was one of the more steamy, or passionate, romances Anabelle has written (in my opinion). Anabelle writes no-spice romance so there is nothing explicit but their love for one another was evident. I love the plot of this book and the duology of Deryk & Ellie’s story. I feel like there’s more to the continent and I can’t wait to see what is next for Anabelle Raven!
💖 closed door, steamy not spicy, nondescriptive kisses & embraces.
🫢 clean language
CW/TW: death, loss of family members, grief, assassins, murder, torture, betrayal, revenge
October 1, 2025
"Do not yield before evil."
This book is excellent! Everything I could've wanted in the second half of a duology! Absolutely full of epic battles against terrifying creatures, betrayals and reconciliations, incredible feats of magic, and swoony romance!
Deryk and Ellie are as outstanding as they ever were- both such brave, kind, selfless characters. This book introduces a lot of great new characters- I especially enjoyed Thad and Paltrin, who kept me laughing throughout the book, Batrice (Deryk's sister) that was so accepting and understanding, and Drychor, who is the sweetest little boy! Even Eliathar grew on me (way to slaughter his crusty exterior with sweet civility, Ellie!). The magic is super awesome! And of course the dragons are awesome! The romance was clean and sweet! No bad language. Great book!
This book is excellent! Everything I could've wanted in the second half of a duology! Absolutely full of epic battles against terrifying creatures, betrayals and reconciliations, incredible feats of magic, and swoony romance!
Deryk and Ellie are as outstanding as they ever were- both such brave, kind, selfless characters. This book introduces a lot of great new characters- I especially enjoyed Thad and Paltrin, who kept me laughing throughout the book, Batrice (Deryk's sister) that was so accepting and understanding, and Drychor, who is the sweetest little boy! Even Eliathar grew on me (way to slaughter his crusty exterior with sweet civility, Ellie!). The magic is super awesome! And of course the dragons are awesome! The romance was clean and sweet! No bad language. Great book!
September 23, 2025
At first I found myself frustrated at some of the immaturity of the characters, but this book was a page turner and things just got better and better. As royalty in two different “enemy nations,” there was unrest, war, and more in this romantic fantasy. The second book in an enemies to sweethearts duology, this book tied up some loose ends while giving us more information and many more characters. It was a great read. I couldn’t put it down. I’m hoping that the author continues to create stories set in this world so we can get to know more characters. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 22, 2025
Such a cute love story between Ellie and Deryk. These two complement eachother so well. Deryk is a very refreshing MMC. He is very in tune with his emotions and those of others around him and he is not afraid to awknowledge when he has messed up. There wasn't groveling, just a quite correction to his behavior and apology for his mistakes. I appreciated that Ellie didn't wallow in her emotions and found forgiveness in her heart. Ellie also has a very strong moral compass. She was so willing to help his people, despite the great danger that it posed to her. And I loved that she won everybody over just by being herself.
I felt that this was a great continuation of their story and I loved getting to see more dragons and magic in this installment.
I felt that this was a great continuation of their story and I loved getting to see more dragons and magic in this installment.
September 8, 2025
I love Ellie and Deryk!
I reread A Dragon Inside and then this book and I just love the progression of their relationship and story.
SO many wonderful characters in both of these books!
I hope we will get to stay in these kingdoms long enough to read more of their stories.
Drychor 100% was my favorite!
If ever there is a book far in the future it needs to be his story!
A true gem of a character!
This fast paced adventure explores the love and complicated relationship of siblings. This felt refreshing and added a lot to all of the stories.
Overall an exciting read…can’t wait for the third book!
I reread A Dragon Inside and then this book and I just love the progression of their relationship and story.
SO many wonderful characters in both of these books!
I hope we will get to stay in these kingdoms long enough to read more of their stories.
Drychor 100% was my favorite!
If ever there is a book far in the future it needs to be his story!
A true gem of a character!
This fast paced adventure explores the love and complicated relationship of siblings. This felt refreshing and added a lot to all of the stories.
Overall an exciting read…can’t wait for the third book!
September 10, 2025
I absolutely loved this duology. Deryk and Ellie are amazing characters that leap off the page. Their love of and for their people, history, peace and each other knows no bounds. I adore all the side characters and am looking forward to their stories in future books about Solvar and the surrounding countries. The forgiveness, love, friendship and humor throughout the book are inspiring and needed. I would HIGHLY recommend this to anyone who loves a great fantasy with great world building, characters that are loveable and relatable and has all the feels that a book needs.
October 17, 2025
A Dragon Outside by Anabelle Raven
Will the final results be worth the cost?
This is the second book in the Deryk and Ellie duology so it really needs to be read in order. I so loved this one! One of my top favorites of this author's books. The romance between Deryk and Ellie is so sweet and swoony but there's also plenty of action with all the shadow monsters. Would recommend to teens and adults alike. Definitely looking forward to reading Lilith's story next!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Fantasy romance (no spice)
Will the final results be worth the cost?
This is the second book in the Deryk and Ellie duology so it really needs to be read in order. I so loved this one! One of my top favorites of this author's books. The romance between Deryk and Ellie is so sweet and swoony but there's also plenty of action with all the shadow monsters. Would recommend to teens and adults alike. Definitely looking forward to reading Lilith's story next!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Fantasy romance (no spice)
September 20, 2025
Such an amazing book! The first book, A dragon Inside, was so good and this book is just as great! I was so wrapped up in the story and could feel their emotions and lives. Anabelle does a great job in drawing you into the world and immerses you in it. I could imagine each scene and character in the book. I definitely recommend both books!
September 30, 2025
Wow! This clean romantic fantasy packed quite a punch! I absolutely loved it! The world building was incredible, the romance and danger were there in spades, and the reconciliation was well worth waiting for! I loved the dragons, the way the magic worked, and the emotional tension that moved this story forward so well. I received an ARC copy and this is my review.
October 5, 2025
This was Great!
I loved this sweet story! It focuses on overcoming prejudice, learning trust, finding inner strength, and growing love. I appreciated the relationships and how they felt dynamic and real.
I will encourage my daughter to read it and look forward to reading more from this author. 🚫🤬🚫🌶️
I loved this sweet story! It focuses on overcoming prejudice, learning trust, finding inner strength, and growing love. I appreciated the relationships and how they felt dynamic and real.
I will encourage my daughter to read it and look forward to reading more from this author. 🚫🤬🚫🌶️
November 1, 2025
Such an excellent ending to Deryk and Ellie's story!
November 5, 2025
destiny or fate?
I enjoyed the conclusion of Ellie and Deryk’s story. Romance, dragons, special powers and a heroine that while afraid does what is right.
I enjoyed the conclusion of Ellie and Deryk’s story. Romance, dragons, special powers and a heroine that while afraid does what is right.
November 21, 2025
Oh my goodness. This duology is definitely one of my top 10, maybe even top 5, reads of this year. Raven brings the characters to life so well. You can definitely feel how they're feeling and understand how they're thinking. Most of all, she did the miscommunication trope and I didn't hate it. It was legit miscommunication that was resolved well. If all miscommunication tropes were done similarly, I would hate it as a trope less. I loved seeing the resolution and the HEA for the characters. Definitely a series/book I'll read again!
December 18, 2025
A fun second half of an epic duology. Deryk and Ellie have parted ways...under a completely mistaken understanding of what the other one wants. (Pro tip - when you spring a "come with me" with absolutely no warning, and the person doesn't immediately jump onto the dragon's back...perhaps...you should ask them if they'd like to come *later*. Just...ya know. Maybe.) I very much enjoyed this duology - it took a good look at patience, and prejudice. Just lovely.
October 10, 2025
Excellent conclusion to the first book. It may pull at your emotions, but the best books always do.
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