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Dragon Rider Academy #0.5
Dragon Chosen
Be delicate, be genteel, be decorative—that is what a lady should be, according to Lady Fern’s mother, and unfortunately, she is none of them. She’d much rather bury her nose in a book than discuss the latest fashions.
Fern has never fit the mould carved out for her. And when an arranged marriage looms, along with suitors who sneer and a mother who sneers louder, Fern does the she runs.
Into the woods and straight into the waiting wings of a queen dragon.
What begins as an escape becomes a calling. There’s power in her voice, fire in her soul, and when she bonds with the dragon, Fern discovers she was never meant to be ornamental.
She was meant to soar.
Dragon Chosen is set in the same world as The Dragon Queen, but you do not have to have read that series for this book to make sense.
It is a prequel novella, with a HFN in this book and HEA in the final book in the series
Fern has never fit the mould carved out for her. And when an arranged marriage looms, along with suitors who sneer and a mother who sneers louder, Fern does the she runs.
Into the woods and straight into the waiting wings of a queen dragon.
What begins as an escape becomes a calling. There’s power in her voice, fire in her soul, and when she bonds with the dragon, Fern discovers she was never meant to be ornamental.
She was meant to soar.
Dragon Chosen is set in the same world as The Dragon Queen, but you do not have to have read that series for this book to make sense.
It is a prequel novella, with a HFN in this book and HEA in the final book in the series
57 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2025
About the author
Sam Hall
76 books2,087 followersAustralian author of paranormal RH novels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 26, 2025
can't wait to read the rest of the story!!! I'm invested already
November 30, 2025
What a fab opener to a series! I just loved Fern, she didn't fit in with the expected standards of beauty and she wanted more out of her life than marriage and children but it was looking like that wasn't on the cards for her. Then an overheard conversation changes her whole life in very unexpected ways and I loved it.
Can't wait to see what happens in the next instalment of her story.
Can't wait to see what happens in the next instalment of her story.
August 25, 2025
Dragon Chosen is a prequel novella at the beginning of The Dragon Lady series written by Sam Hall.
💜 suitors
💜 overbearing mother
💜 dragons
💜 dragon riders
Fern is just standing there staring at the beautiful gown her mother had made for her. The problem? It was made too small for her frame. And yes, her mother had done that on purpose trying to make her more the size of her sister and not, well, her size. She has tried everything to no end trying to shrink down and it still wasn’t enough. The other problem? The suitors were arriving at this very moment. What is she going to do? Will she be able to squeeze into the dress? Will one of the suitors fall for her? Will she find her happily ever after like she hopes?
This is a very fun start to a new series. There are some references to the Dragon Queen series but you don’t have to read it before this novella. But, I do recommend reading it, because it’s so good. Fern is such a relatable character in this book. I loved every minute reading this novella that once I started, I couldn’t stop reading. My only disappointment is that it was done. I can’t wait to read the next story that comes out in this series to see what will happen next.
💜 suitors
💜 overbearing mother
💜 dragons
💜 dragon riders
Fern is just standing there staring at the beautiful gown her mother had made for her. The problem? It was made too small for her frame. And yes, her mother had done that on purpose trying to make her more the size of her sister and not, well, her size. She has tried everything to no end trying to shrink down and it still wasn’t enough. The other problem? The suitors were arriving at this very moment. What is she going to do? Will she be able to squeeze into the dress? Will one of the suitors fall for her? Will she find her happily ever after like she hopes?
This is a very fun start to a new series. There are some references to the Dragon Queen series but you don’t have to read it before this novella. But, I do recommend reading it, because it’s so good. Fern is such a relatable character in this book. I loved every minute reading this novella that once I started, I couldn’t stop reading. My only disappointment is that it was done. I can’t wait to read the next story that comes out in this series to see what will happen next.
August 19, 2025
Sam Hall brings us back to the enchanting world of Nevermere in this prequel, and it's everything fans could hope for. We meet Fern, a younger, decidedly un-prim-and-proper daughter who finds herself fleeing her family's expectations after overhearing the unflattering jests of potential husbands.
Her escape leads her to a chance encounter with Auren, a magnificent, glittering golden dragon who is just as rebellious as Fern is. This unlikely friendship forges a powerful bond, making Fern a dragon rider and setting them on a new path. Hall's writing truly shines, making the connection between these two "rebellious queens" feel earned and heartfelt.
Filled with the rich details, connections to beloved characters like Glimmer and Pip, and the magical world-building we've come to expect, this prequel expertly sets the stage for the original series. The ending left me on the edge of my seat, desperately needing to know if Fern and Auren will get the respect they deserve and find their happily ever after. This is a must-read for any fan of the series and will leave you begging for the next installment.
Her escape leads her to a chance encounter with Auren, a magnificent, glittering golden dragon who is just as rebellious as Fern is. This unlikely friendship forges a powerful bond, making Fern a dragon rider and setting them on a new path. Hall's writing truly shines, making the connection between these two "rebellious queens" feel earned and heartfelt.
Filled with the rich details, connections to beloved characters like Glimmer and Pip, and the magical world-building we've come to expect, this prequel expertly sets the stage for the original series. The ending left me on the edge of my seat, desperately needing to know if Fern and Auren will get the respect they deserve and find their happily ever after. This is a must-read for any fan of the series and will leave you begging for the next installment.
August 23, 2025
The story was told from Lady Fern's and Queen Dragon Auren's alternating POVs. I loved Auren, and Fern most definitely has my sympathies. I hated her judgmental and slightly cruel mother. The pair found each other just when they needed each other.
Auren and Fern will be trouble together, and I can’t wait. The connection between them was instantaneous. For the pair, bonding and sympathizing with each other was second nature. It was like they knew each other for a long time instead of hours. They complemented each other. Where Fern is a bit softer, Auren was raised wild and free and refuses to be tamed by her father's (a certain dragon we might know) expectations. Auren gives Fern emotional strength that she didn't know she was capable of. While Fern gives Auren a co-conspirator and sounding board. They're taking their future into their own hands, and I'm rooting for them. Fern's big confrontation towards the end was everything. Yes! I love that Auren is already so protective of her.
The final chapter did offer some insight into what may be coming for the pair. Some things had me wondering how everything is going to work. I'm already excited to get my hands on the next book.
Auren and Fern will be trouble together, and I can’t wait. The connection between them was instantaneous. For the pair, bonding and sympathizing with each other was second nature. It was like they knew each other for a long time instead of hours. They complemented each other. Where Fern is a bit softer, Auren was raised wild and free and refuses to be tamed by her father's (a certain dragon we might know) expectations. Auren gives Fern emotional strength that she didn't know she was capable of. While Fern gives Auren a co-conspirator and sounding board. They're taking their future into their own hands, and I'm rooting for them. Fern's big confrontation towards the end was everything. Yes! I love that Auren is already so protective of her.
The final chapter did offer some insight into what may be coming for the pair. Some things had me wondering how everything is going to work. I'm already excited to get my hands on the next book.
August 25, 2025
Fern and Auren are destined to be an unstoppable, heart-pounding duo— What could be more thrilling than dragons and fierce, plus-size heroines fighting for their place in the world? This story promises to be a powerful journey of hope, rediscovery, and soulful awakening for these extraordinary characters. Watching them break free from their chains, embrace their true selves, and blossom into the heroes they were born to be will be an epic saga—exactly the kind of sweeping, unforgettable adventure I’ve come to expect from Sam Hall!
Auren and Fern’s bond sparks instantly—it's electric, undeniable. Their connection is so deep, so instinctive, it’s as if they’ve known each other for a lifetime rather than mere hours. They intuitively understand and support each other, their souls intertwining effortlessly. Fern’s gentle kindness balances perfectly with Auren’s wild, untamed spirit—raised free and fierce, refusing to be shackled by her father’s (and that dragon’s) heavy expectations. Auren becomes Fern’s unbreakable source of emotional strength, awakening feelings she never knew she possessed. And Fern, in turn, becomes Auren’s trusted confidante and unwavering co-conspirator.
Auren and Fern’s bond sparks instantly—it's electric, undeniable. Their connection is so deep, so instinctive, it’s as if they’ve known each other for a lifetime rather than mere hours. They intuitively understand and support each other, their souls intertwining effortlessly. Fern’s gentle kindness balances perfectly with Auren’s wild, untamed spirit—raised free and fierce, refusing to be shackled by her father’s (and that dragon’s) heavy expectations. Auren becomes Fern’s unbreakable source of emotional strength, awakening feelings she never knew she possessed. And Fern, in turn, becomes Auren’s trusted confidante and unwavering co-conspirator.
August 23, 2025
Gah! Such a great little tease! I absolutely loved The Dragon Queen series and this novella starts a bit after where we left off in Nevermere.
Fern and Auren will be an absolute dynamic duo and I cannot WAIT FOR MORE!!! What’s not to love about dragons and plus size heroines? This story will be one that is uplifting and soul finding for these characters. Watching them grow and realize their worth will be an epic tale… the kind that we know and expect when reading from Sam Hall.
I’m super excited to be back in this enchanting world. I am ever sure that Sam will knock all of our socks off with more fantasy and world building than we can handle. EEK!!!
Fern and Auren will be an absolute dynamic duo and I cannot WAIT FOR MORE!!! What’s not to love about dragons and plus size heroines? This story will be one that is uplifting and soul finding for these characters. Watching them grow and realize their worth will be an epic tale… the kind that we know and expect when reading from Sam Hall.
I’m super excited to be back in this enchanting world. I am ever sure that Sam will knock all of our socks off with more fantasy and world building than we can handle. EEK!!!
August 23, 2025
This is a short prequel Novella about Fern and how she meets her dragon.
Fern just might be my favorite new fmc. She is a plus-sized fmc and deals with verbal abuse, among other things, from her family and others outside of it.
the book gives a great backstory to Fern and what leads her to bond her dragon. I can't wait to see them both come into the feminine power and confidence that is hinted at.
While a mmc was introduced for both characters at the end, and romantic interest is hinted at, we don't see yet how that unfolds. It's definitely worth reading as you will fall in love with the characters, and it provides all the interesting backstory details!
Fern just might be my favorite new fmc. She is a plus-sized fmc and deals with verbal abuse, among other things, from her family and others outside of it.
the book gives a great backstory to Fern and what leads her to bond her dragon. I can't wait to see them both come into the feminine power and confidence that is hinted at.
While a mmc was introduced for both characters at the end, and romantic interest is hinted at, we don't see yet how that unfolds. It's definitely worth reading as you will fall in love with the characters, and it provides all the interesting backstory details!
August 24, 2025
Never disappointed by Sam's writing. She produces female characters that are relatable and unapologetic.
This novella is a sneaky peak at another great female character who isn't wanting to conform to expectations. Fern is fiercely independent and very smart,but her role within society is a restriction, and she can't be herself. That's until something changes and allows her the chance to finally be who she wants to be, and do what she wants.
A chance meeting with a dragon might just change the course of her life whilst also helping the dragon change hers.
Can't wait to see what's next for Fern and Auren. I have a feeling it's not what either were expecting.
This novella is a sneaky peak at another great female character who isn't wanting to conform to expectations. Fern is fiercely independent and very smart,but her role within society is a restriction, and she can't be herself. That's until something changes and allows her the chance to finally be who she wants to be, and do what she wants.
A chance meeting with a dragon might just change the course of her life whilst also helping the dragon change hers.
Can't wait to see what's next for Fern and Auren. I have a feeling it's not what either were expecting.
October 11, 2025
While this was a shorter read it is no less beautiful. Sam Hall has this amazing talent to turn imaginary worlds into living, breathing worlds that make you feel like you could jaunt right over to them. I loved hearing bits and pieces of Glimmer and Pippin in this story. Fern is one that definitely has strength and is also caring. I love Auren as well in this story. Her personality is fantastic. The two of them together have you absolutely in love as they have the same mindset. The story is extremely well written and developed. It is one that quickly pulled me in and didn’t let go. I can’t wait to continue this fantastic journey.
August 17, 2025
Dragon Chosen is the perfect blend of irresistibly pulling me into this new series and comforting me with the nostalgic return to Nevermere (and a quick glimpse of some familiar faces)! It’s a quick prequel novella to get you excited about breaking free of the chains and expectations of the patriarchy and I absolutely cannot wait for Fern and Auren to claim their independence and happiness that relies on no male! I think this going to be a story for the progressive women out there that will only accept a mutually beneficial relationship on their own terms! I can’t wait for this series!
August 23, 2025
It is no surprise that another Sam hall book is another win for me.
We are back to Nevermere, but in a prequel before the events of The Dragon Queen series. While there is connection with characters like Glimmer and Pip, this story centers on Fern, our FMC who is running from societal expectations.
Then comes our introduction to Auren, and bam new bonds over shared rebelliousness. Now a dragon rider, Fern and Auren are working to claim a happiness and independence…
I cannot wait for the next installment in this series, this was a quick enjoyable read that I would recommend.
We are back to Nevermere, but in a prequel before the events of The Dragon Queen series. While there is connection with characters like Glimmer and Pip, this story centers on Fern, our FMC who is running from societal expectations.
Then comes our introduction to Auren, and bam new bonds over shared rebelliousness. Now a dragon rider, Fern and Auren are working to claim a happiness and independence…
I cannot wait for the next installment in this series, this was a quick enjoyable read that I would recommend.
August 24, 2025
DEFINITELY CHOOSING THE DRAGON
This short, but full of depth novella by Sam Hall is a fantastic start to The Dragon Lady series. With Fern, she is more than what others see and feel towards her and has an immediate connection to the Dragon Queen Auren. With similar stories and a bonding over finding their place in a male dominated world, this novella is sure to please anyone who enjoys romantasy, mythical creatures and strong female characters. Definitely choosing this series to read and looking forward to where Auren and Fern's journey takes them.
This short, but full of depth novella by Sam Hall is a fantastic start to The Dragon Lady series. With Fern, she is more than what others see and feel towards her and has an immediate connection to the Dragon Queen Auren. With similar stories and a bonding over finding their place in a male dominated world, this novella is sure to please anyone who enjoys romantasy, mythical creatures and strong female characters. Definitely choosing this series to read and looking forward to where Auren and Fern's journey takes them.
October 18, 2025
This is such a quick read. It has the real-world aspect of Lords and Ladies. We see what the world looks like to a young woman that thicker then desired. I love the way that it is real and all the emotions that come with it. We meet Fern getting ready to meet her suiters. She comes down the servants' stairs because she doesn't want to meet her mother. This is when her life changes. We see Fern stand up for herself and make the chose to leave. Then the story really starts. I love this short, cute story. I am looking forward to the next book.
August 17, 2025
I loved this short novella set in the same world as Dragon Queen. Fern is a strong and sassy woman who wants more for her life than being married off to a man and having children. She and Auren (the dragon) are a great match and together they are determined to live their lives their way. I can’t wait to read more from them and hopefully Fern and Auren will get all they dreamed of. This book definitely has you eager for more.
August 23, 2025
The perfect tease to what I'm sure is going to be another fantastic story set in this world! It was a quick read for me, and I immediately wanted more. The story is interesting and holds your attention from the start. A short and sweet introduction to this story. 100% recommend reading the Dragon Queen series first. It will help you understand this story line and you won't regret it! Can't WAIT for more!!!
August 24, 2025
What a great start!! This is a short introduction to Fern and her dragon Auren. Fern is a bigger girl in a world where only the petite are appreciated. Instead of being forced into a role, Fern takes a chance with a dragon.
I loved the dual pov’s from both Fern and Auren, and finding that while so different, both women are facing similar battles.
This is a short read and sets you up for Fern’s future story, and it’s a great start.
I loved the dual pov’s from both Fern and Auren, and finding that while so different, both women are facing similar battles.
This is a short read and sets you up for Fern’s future story, and it’s a great start.
November 18, 2025
YESSSS
This was perfection!!! I love a sweet lil novella to get me hooked and then wanna read more and more to see the story unfold! Also a curvy woman who bonds the Queen of dragons?! YESSS. A curvy woman who has a man hooked from first glance at them curves?! YESSSS. He wanna inspect, lick and claim every inch like there ain't no tomorrow and lord help me I cannot WAIT to see how that goes...I bet Auren (dragon) will be a lil testy about it though at first lol.
This was perfection!!! I love a sweet lil novella to get me hooked and then wanna read more and more to see the story unfold! Also a curvy woman who bonds the Queen of dragons?! YESSS. A curvy woman who has a man hooked from first glance at them curves?! YESSSS. He wanna inspect, lick and claim every inch like there ain't no tomorrow and lord help me I cannot WAIT to see how that goes...I bet Auren (dragon) will be a lil testy about it though at first lol.
August 23, 2025
If you loved The Dragon Queen series and the world of Nevermore, then you will absolutely love this novella. This features Fern who is anything but the prim and proper lady she is expected to be and Auren a beautiful golden dragon who is just as feisty as Fern is. It's absolutely captivating and I can't wait for the next book in the series!
August 25, 2025
Sam brings up back to the world of Nevermere with this prequel to a new series. So far this glimpse into Ferns beginning, starts with an ache for her and dealing with her mother. Meeting Auren is her chance to escape that life, build a strong bond and look forward to a new future.
When they get a little aide tracked and need assistance, we meet Lance and his dragon Viridian, who both seem take at first sight with our leading ladies. I can't wait to see where the story developers and the future for Fern and Auren.
When they get a little aide tracked and need assistance, we meet Lance and his dragon Viridian, who both seem take at first sight with our leading ladies. I can't wait to see where the story developers and the future for Fern and Auren.
August 23, 2025
Oh no! I shouldn’t have read this. Now, I’m desperate for more. This is a small glimpse back into Nevermere. Fern fleeing the nastiness of her family and runs away. She runs into Auren who immediately wants to take care of her and they begin their journey together. I know I’m going to love these characters and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
August 24, 2025
Excellent Setup
What an excellent prequel novella! Lots of background information and a good introduction to the characters. I can’t wait to see what happens next! Will these two strong female characters become something super powerful together? What will happen with the two males they have just met?
What an excellent prequel novella! Lots of background information and a good introduction to the characters. I can’t wait to see what happens next! Will these two strong female characters become something super powerful together? What will happen with the two males they have just met?
September 1, 2025
This is such a great prequel. A very short read yes but it sets the story right. This is about Fern and how she meets her dragon. The connection was instant and I for one can't wait for more in this series. Love that she is plussize as am I and makes me relate to her and seeing her and Auren, both strong ladies is just amazing.
September 7, 2025
This gives us another view of an important character of the dragon queen series and one I am eager to learn more about. He is an unsung hero and boogeyman who is actually more Saint Nick. It gave me a sneak peak at the young men he saved and I am here for learning more!! Can’t wait, but I will because fabulous takes time!!
September 26, 2025
2/5 Stars – The Dragon Chosen (Novella)
No point in sugar-coating it - this was a very quick and straightforward introduction to The Dragon Lady series. It moves fast, almost too fast, and there’s just not enough depth yet to really get invested. Because of that, I can't rate it any higher at this point. That said, I am curious to see how the story develops in the full series.
No point in sugar-coating it - this was a very quick and straightforward introduction to The Dragon Lady series. It moves fast, almost too fast, and there’s just not enough depth yet to really get invested. Because of that, I can't rate it any higher at this point. That said, I am curious to see how the story develops in the full series.
October 30, 2025
This one was fun but not a favorite. I liked the dragon-shifter concept and the main character’s fiery attitude, but some parts dragged and felt a bit repetitive. Still, it had cool world-building and a few twists that kept me curious. A decent, quick fantasy read if you’re in the mood for dragons and chaos.
August 16, 2025
Picking up where Dragon Queen left off, Dragon Chosen takes up with Auren the dragon and Fern, a likeable and relatable MC. Their meeting with Dragon Riders from this last trilogy sparks intrigue for what will happen when they reach the capital.
August 16, 2025
Oh my goodness I am totally hooked!!!! Fern is on her way to discovering herself and I can’t wait to see what happens. This is an incredible introduction to Sam Hall’s new series, set in a world we’ve visited before but standing separate. This is going to be an awesome adventure!!
August 24, 2025
As I really enjoyed the Dragon Queen series, I was super hyped for a new series set in the same world.
And I have to say, this prequel makes me grin and (again) wish I were living in a different world.
Of course, not everything is rainbows and roses, and such is the start of Fern's and Auren's story.
But together they stand stronger.
I cannot wait to read more of their story! Returning to a world we know and love to meet new characters and, of course, old friends.
A short and perfect prequel to get back in the saddle ;)
And I have to say, this prequel makes me grin and (again) wish I were living in a different world.
Of course, not everything is rainbows and roses, and such is the start of Fern's and Auren's story.
But together they stand stronger.
I cannot wait to read more of their story! Returning to a world we know and love to meet new characters and, of course, old friends.
A short and perfect prequel to get back in the saddle ;)
August 23, 2025
If you loved the Dragon Queen series like I did then you’ll love this short story set in the same world. We meet Fern and her adventure begins. I was drawn in immediately and stayed engaged throughout the story. I’m excited for the next part of Fern’s story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews