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Penelope's Dragon #1
Saving the Dragon
Penelope has dreamt of learning magic since she was a small girl chasing imaginary butterflies in her dreams. Unfortunately, as the Princess of Saleria, magic is not only unsuited to her station, it is forbidden by her father. Spending her days slipping from the castle to gather supplies in a darkened shop is proving dangerous and more difficult as time goes by, even after she recruits help. When the opportunity arises to accompany her father on a visit to her Wizard Godfather, Stellan, Penelope jumps at the chance. Soon after arriving at the castle, Penelope realizes something is very amiss with her Godfather and his reclusive nephew. Things are not what they seem and secrets abound. When the truth is revealed, it sends Penelope hurtling down a road of danger and mystery. Her life will never be the same – and neither will Stellan’s.
171 pages, ebook
First published March 27, 2015
10 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
About the author
Sara R. Cleveland
8 books58 followersSara Cleveland is an indie novelist who currently works as a web developer. She self-published her first novel, Saving the Dragon in April 2015.
When not writing or working Sara is an avid reader and baseball fan.
Sara lives in Northeast Ohio with her husband and their spoiled cats.
When not writing or working Sara is an avid reader and baseball fan.
Sara lives in Northeast Ohio with her husband and their spoiled cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 8, 2021
Saving the Dragon is a quick, fun fantasy with lots of magic, an exciting plot, and plenty of awesome characters. There was even a surprising twist about one character in particular that I really enjoyed and did not see coming!
**This review contains some mild spoilers. I think?**
Penelope is a wonderful protagonist and it was a pleasure to watch her romance unfold. Some of the scenes with Stellan were just so sweet! That said, I do hope we get to see more of Eric and Tiffany in the sequel. I loved them just as much as the main couple!
I need to applaud Sara's writing style! She's definitely a talented writer and I always looked forward to sneaking in another chapter throughout the day. I do think this book would've benefited from another round of editing though. There were a handful of small editing/formatting mistakes throughout the book, yet the excellent writing, engaging plot, and likeable cast of characters were so great that I couldn't possibly give Saving the Dragon anything less than 5 stars.
I recommend this book to all fans of fantasy and I'm already looking forward to the sequel!! 5/5 stars!
**This review contains some mild spoilers. I think?**
Penelope is a wonderful protagonist and it was a pleasure to watch her romance unfold. Some of the scenes with Stellan were just so sweet! That said, I do hope we get to see more of Eric and Tiffany in the sequel. I loved them just as much as the main couple!
I need to applaud Sara's writing style! She's definitely a talented writer and I always looked forward to sneaking in another chapter throughout the day. I do think this book would've benefited from another round of editing though. There were a handful of small editing/formatting mistakes throughout the book, yet the excellent writing, engaging plot, and likeable cast of characters were so great that I couldn't possibly give Saving the Dragon anything less than 5 stars.
I recommend this book to all fans of fantasy and I'm already looking forward to the sequel!! 5/5 stars!
July 18, 2023
This was a fun, well-written fantasy romance. The magic was intriguing, the characters likable, and the story was interesting. Bonus - there's a dragon, so yaay! Overall, a very enjoyable read.
March 8, 2021
Saving the Dragon is a quick, fun fantasy with lots of magic, an exciting plot, and plenty of awesome characters. There was even a surprising twist about one character in particular that I really enjoyed and did not see coming!
**This review contains some mild spoilers. I think?**
Penelope is a wonderful protagonist and it was a pleasure to watch her romance unfold. Some of the scenes with Stellan were just so sweet! That said, I do hope we get to see more of Eric and Tiffany in the sequel. I loved them just as much as the main couple!
I need to applaud Sara's writing style! She's definitely a talented writer and I always looked forward to sneaking in another chapter throughout the day. I do think this book would've benefited from another round of editing though. There were a handful of small editing/formatting mistakes throughout the book, yet the excellent writing, engaging plot, and likeable cast of characters were so great that I couldn't possibly give Saving the Dragon anything less than 5 stars.
I recommend this book to all fans of fantasy and I'm already looking forward to the sequel!! 5/5 stars!
**This review contains some mild spoilers. I think?**
Penelope is a wonderful protagonist and it was a pleasure to watch her romance unfold. Some of the scenes with Stellan were just so sweet! That said, I do hope we get to see more of Eric and Tiffany in the sequel. I loved them just as much as the main couple!
I need to applaud Sara's writing style! She's definitely a talented writer and I always looked forward to sneaking in another chapter throughout the day. I do think this book would've benefited from another round of editing though. There were a handful of small editing/formatting mistakes throughout the book, yet the excellent writing, engaging plot, and likeable cast of characters were so great that I couldn't possibly give Saving the Dragon anything less than 5 stars.
I recommend this book to all fans of fantasy and I'm already looking forward to the sequel!! 5/5 stars!
May 28, 2021
(4.5/5) A light, quick fantasy tale with a clean romance and a magical dragon. I think I would’ve liked to see a little more growth from the main character, but overall a super enjoyable read. I would recommend to anyone looking for a fun fantasy romance.
April 30, 2015
Sara R. Cleveland doesn't leave you much to the imagination. No, that's a good thing! Her writing gives so much detail that everything is perfectly pictured for you. The words flow nicely and the book is a fast read. It's the kind of book where you will read and not even realize you have read 30 pages.
Saving the Dragon not only has a gorgeous cover but has everything a fantasy nut could want. Princesses, Kingdoms, Wizards, Magic, even Dragons. For some reason this whole book reminded me of a side story you would do in the Elder Scrolls Series and I didn't mind that at all!
I very much enjoyed this book and looking forward to any future releases the author may come out with.
Saving the Dragon not only has a gorgeous cover but has everything a fantasy nut could want. Princesses, Kingdoms, Wizards, Magic, even Dragons. For some reason this whole book reminded me of a side story you would do in the Elder Scrolls Series and I didn't mind that at all!
I very much enjoyed this book and looking forward to any future releases the author may come out with.
May 5, 2021
A memorable magical story that had me reading with a big comfy smile on my face the whole way through.
Now, you might be wondering, just what does that even mean? Is it good? Well, I'd say so. But I promise, I'll explain.
First of all, the characters are great, and that's usually my most important aspect of any book, personally. Penelope is awesome, smart, badass, and is one of those characters who becomes more relatable the more the story progresses, especially at the end. There were times I felt her stress coming off the page, and she just felt very well rounded and easy to like.
While we're talking about characters, my favorite part is that every one of them had purpose and personality. Goodleaf, Tiffany, Eric, they all had a role, and were all characters I felt invested in. I'd say they were 'the glue' of this story, and were used perfectly.
As for the plot, it was snappy, and left no 'fat on the bone.' Not to mention a twist that ropes you right in, actually, a couple of them. But to avoid spoilers there, they were well executed is all I'll say.
More about that plot though. It really felt like a magical story from start to finish. Seamless worldbuilding that developed over time, and not just dumped all upon you at once. Even going on a visit to Goodleaf's shop, it felt like I was reading one of my first fantasy books again like when I was younger. It's like the author captured this special recipe of magic and wonder, and concocted this book with it. It moves along pretty quickly too, and opens up early on. Honestly, even though I'm a slower reader, I found myself surprised with how far I was into the book, and that's a good thing. It never felt like I was checking to see how far I was until I only had a couple chapters left because I was nervous as to how it might end!
This really was a fantastic read for anyone who is a fan of fantasy. I haven't been on this magical of a ride in a while, giving me those classic fantasy feels that I grew up reading with a brand new twist.
Bonus points for my favorite ship in a while being realized and confirmed!
5/5
Now, you might be wondering, just what does that even mean? Is it good? Well, I'd say so. But I promise, I'll explain.
First of all, the characters are great, and that's usually my most important aspect of any book, personally. Penelope is awesome, smart, badass, and is one of those characters who becomes more relatable the more the story progresses, especially at the end. There were times I felt her stress coming off the page, and she just felt very well rounded and easy to like.
While we're talking about characters, my favorite part is that every one of them had purpose and personality. Goodleaf, Tiffany, Eric, they all had a role, and were all characters I felt invested in. I'd say they were 'the glue' of this story, and were used perfectly.
As for the plot, it was snappy, and left no 'fat on the bone.' Not to mention a twist that ropes you right in, actually, a couple of them. But to avoid spoilers there, they were well executed is all I'll say.
More about that plot though. It really felt like a magical story from start to finish. Seamless worldbuilding that developed over time, and not just dumped all upon you at once. Even going on a visit to Goodleaf's shop, it felt like I was reading one of my first fantasy books again like when I was younger. It's like the author captured this special recipe of magic and wonder, and concocted this book with it. It moves along pretty quickly too, and opens up early on. Honestly, even though I'm a slower reader, I found myself surprised with how far I was into the book, and that's a good thing. It never felt like I was checking to see how far I was until I only had a couple chapters left because I was nervous as to how it might end!
This really was a fantastic read for anyone who is a fan of fantasy. I haven't been on this magical of a ride in a while, giving me those classic fantasy feels that I grew up reading with a brand new twist.
Bonus points for my favorite ship in a while being realized and confirmed!
5/5
February 12, 2021
Fast paced but fun
This book is a bit short, closer to a novella length I would say. I was able to finish it in an afternoon, but it was an enjoyable ride! Has a good cast of likable characters, both main and side characters. The story moves very quickly which can leave you wanting more in some places, but nothing that is too impactful on the overall experience. The romance kicks off quickly, but the chemistry between the characters keeps it from feeling contrived. The prose is light and easy to follow, and pleasant to read. Fans of fairytales looking for an original story will like this one!
I am looking forward to reading more about Penelope and Salarath in the author's next book!
This book is a bit short, closer to a novella length I would say. I was able to finish it in an afternoon, but it was an enjoyable ride! Has a good cast of likable characters, both main and side characters. The story moves very quickly which can leave you wanting more in some places, but nothing that is too impactful on the overall experience. The romance kicks off quickly, but the chemistry between the characters keeps it from feeling contrived. The prose is light and easy to follow, and pleasant to read. Fans of fairytales looking for an original story will like this one!
I am looking forward to reading more about Penelope and Salarath in the author's next book!
May 11, 2024
A cutesy, enjoyable YA read! Personally, I would've liked more action, adventure, and danger--I mean, there's a fire-breathing dragon and magic involved--but that's just me. The story flowed nicely without it.
May 14, 2021
I loved exploring this world! The world building is so well done. I felt like I knew each scene and environment which is always a gorgeous thing to experience for making the world come alive!
I felt for Penelope. She makes such a fun and engaging protagonist! I really enjoyed following her and genuinely cared about how things planned out for her. The plot was well paced and flowed.
I truly love the way magic was used here. It’s not overwhelming but still maintains a strong presence throughout the story. I was given both twists and fulfilled plot elements, a well balanced combination.
I truly look forward to the follow up to see where Penelope’s journey goes!
I felt for Penelope. She makes such a fun and engaging protagonist! I really enjoyed following her and genuinely cared about how things planned out for her. The plot was well paced and flowed.
I truly love the way magic was used here. It’s not overwhelming but still maintains a strong presence throughout the story. I was given both twists and fulfilled plot elements, a well balanced combination.
I truly look forward to the follow up to see where Penelope’s journey goes!
June 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this story! It was a little short, but still fulfilling. I love love love the whole princess saving the day script flipping. She didn't clumsily stumble her way through and accidently save the world; Penelope definitely had her work cut out for her. But she persevered and had to make some tough decisions, so tough that even though I wish her no ill-will I do hope there's some lingering trauma to help build her character.
At first I felt very blah about the maid Tiffany, but by the end she gave me more feels than anyone else.
I hope we get more of Guy in the next book!
At first I felt very blah about the maid Tiffany, but by the end she gave me more feels than anyone else.
I hope we get more of Guy in the next book!
August 17, 2015
Good magic vs. evil magic draws you in
Princess Penelope is a gutsy young protagonist. She’s ambitious and smart. And she doesn’t give up easily. She wants more than anything to learn magic and when she gets the opportunity to visit her Godfather, Stellan, she’s thrilled. That’s because Stellan is a mage and she’s hoping he might agree to tutor her. But Stellan is much more than he seems. And so is his handsome, silver-eyed nephew Stefan.
“Saving the Dragon” is a story of good magic versus evil magic. It’s also a love story with a surprising twist. For fantasy fans who enjoy their wizards, witches, spells and suspense, this novel may be just what the wizard ordered. The romance is chaste enough so that it’s suitable for younger readers as well.
I enjoyed following this courageous heroine as she battles to save the one she loves. And the ending left me wanting to know what happens next.
The author and I agreed to do an honest review of each other’s book.
Princess Penelope is a gutsy young protagonist. She’s ambitious and smart. And she doesn’t give up easily. She wants more than anything to learn magic and when she gets the opportunity to visit her Godfather, Stellan, she’s thrilled. That’s because Stellan is a mage and she’s hoping he might agree to tutor her. But Stellan is much more than he seems. And so is his handsome, silver-eyed nephew Stefan.
“Saving the Dragon” is a story of good magic versus evil magic. It’s also a love story with a surprising twist. For fantasy fans who enjoy their wizards, witches, spells and suspense, this novel may be just what the wizard ordered. The romance is chaste enough so that it’s suitable for younger readers as well.
I enjoyed following this courageous heroine as she battles to save the one she loves. And the ending left me wanting to know what happens next.
The author and I agreed to do an honest review of each other’s book.
May 6, 2016
great book and it was really easy to get into and l was sent this book for review and l would recommend this book to my friends and family and to anybody and l would of rated this book more than 5 stars if l could and l reviewed it on everything.
April 5, 2021
I always love me a story where we have a very keen girl who is very much interested in practicing magic yet is prohibited from doing so but it did not stop her, thanks to her defiant spirit. That is Princess Penelope for you.
Saving the Dragon actually revived me from my book slump so I am very thankful for this book. Its a really quick and easy read, the characters were very likeable and honestly I did not expect for the antagonist to be extremely cruel since most of the characters are so soft and kind in general so some scenes took me by surprised and had me gasping. And whenever I gasped while reading, I'd consider it a good read haha.
Thank you Booktasters for introducing me to this book and of course, thank you to Sara R. Cleveland for providing me a free copy of this book. I look forward to read the next release!
Saving the Dragon actually revived me from my book slump so I am very thankful for this book. Its a really quick and easy read, the characters were very likeable and honestly I did not expect for the antagonist to be extremely cruel since most of the characters are so soft and kind in general so some scenes took me by surprised and had me gasping. And whenever I gasped while reading, I'd consider it a good read haha.
Thank you Booktasters for introducing me to this book and of course, thank you to Sara R. Cleveland for providing me a free copy of this book. I look forward to read the next release!
April 2, 2021
This was outside of my normal genre choice, but the sample chapter was very well written and I was intrigued. It started out as I assumed and expected, but continued to grow in intrigue. It was a great fantasy, with a little bit of just about everything in it to keep all readers engaged and entertained. The stakes were real, and more than once it kept me hooked for that one more chapter than I was planning to read at any one sitting. 5 of 5, and I am looking forward to reading book two.
February 6, 2023
A little romance and a lot of fantasy. It reminds me a lot of the Forgotten Realms books.
May 29, 2015
I received this book free through Goodreads First Reads.
This book is beautifully written. There is enough detail that you are able to picture the scenes perfectly. This book is a quick read. Cannot wait to read more from this author.
This book is beautifully written. There is enough detail that you are able to picture the scenes perfectly. This book is a quick read. Cannot wait to read more from this author.
May 10, 2015
Sara Cleveland has a very readable and enjoyable writing style. I am anxiously awaiting book 2.
July 16, 2021
Sara R. Cleveland’s Saving the Dragon feels like a Disney movie for people who grew up on Disney movies, but want a tad bit maturer (young adult) story to the classic storytelling.
All Princess Penelope wants more than anything is to learn magic, but it is forbidden in the kingdom ruled by her father King Hulbyrd. As you can imagine, as any teenager would do – nothing will prevent her from seeking what she so desperately desires. Dangers and mysteries ensue on this pursuit to be a great spell caster.
This story is delightful take on the princess fantasies type books. If you enjoy princess, castles, kings, and of course, as the title displays – dragons, you will enjoy this book.
I love the interesting twists and turns that make it different from other stories. There is a reason why magic is banned, which is revealed about midway. The real surprise to me was the dragon, different from what one usually expects, but similar in the same sense. As with any good princess story, Penelope finds love, too, when and where she least expects it. A formidable opponent appears and the princess’ life just got even more interesting.
Aside from the review, one of the significance of this book is that it was written during National Novel Writing Month – a program put on by the Office of Lights and Letters. The author acknowledges that without it she would not have written this book. I am in the middle of doing the summer camp version of that program. So for me to read this book and see someone else have the same dreams and desires that dwell in me comes to life, it gives me the same hope I will one day have my passion come true too. This book is a role model for me.
If that is your dream too, be sure to read Saving the Dragon! I hope it gives you the same sense of hope to that completion.
And stay tuned for my review of the sequel to Saving the Dragon, which came out last month, called Courting the Dragon.
All Princess Penelope wants more than anything is to learn magic, but it is forbidden in the kingdom ruled by her father King Hulbyrd. As you can imagine, as any teenager would do – nothing will prevent her from seeking what she so desperately desires. Dangers and mysteries ensue on this pursuit to be a great spell caster.
This story is delightful take on the princess fantasies type books. If you enjoy princess, castles, kings, and of course, as the title displays – dragons, you will enjoy this book.
I love the interesting twists and turns that make it different from other stories. There is a reason why magic is banned, which is revealed about midway. The real surprise to me was the dragon, different from what one usually expects, but similar in the same sense. As with any good princess story, Penelope finds love, too, when and where she least expects it. A formidable opponent appears and the princess’ life just got even more interesting.
Aside from the review, one of the significance of this book is that it was written during National Novel Writing Month – a program put on by the Office of Lights and Letters. The author acknowledges that without it she would not have written this book. I am in the middle of doing the summer camp version of that program. So for me to read this book and see someone else have the same dreams and desires that dwell in me comes to life, it gives me the same hope I will one day have my passion come true too. This book is a role model for me.
If that is your dream too, be sure to read Saving the Dragon! I hope it gives you the same sense of hope to that completion.
And stay tuned for my review of the sequel to Saving the Dragon, which came out last month, called Courting the Dragon.
June 17, 2021
As a fun, light-hearted, fantasy book, SAVING THE DRAGON absolutely delivers. I managed to read the book in a few sittings, so it's great for a brisk, quick read!
With a cast of memorable main and supporting characters, I think SAVING THE DRAGON would suit most teenaged to adult readers. Though the book feels YA to me -- the language is accessible, straightforward, if occasionally anachronistic (which seems purposeful!) -- there are some moments of darkness in it, and the occasional pop of harsh language.
Personally, my favorite characters were those who we don't see as much of, though the book boasts a varied cast of characters who all take part in the final confrontation(s). Mary the cook is my personal favorite, and I found myself rooting for her and Tiffany (the Princess protagonist's handmaid) as the book went on. Sure, our protagonists deserve praise for the courage and ingenuity they show, but I love supporting characters who have their friends' backs through thick and thin.
SAVING THE DRAGON feels to me like Hans-Christian Andersen mashed up with Disney's TANGLED, and it gets its tone just right: it wants to tell a familiar-feeling tale and ensure that the reader has a ton of fun reading it! I'm looking forward to the sequel, and hope there are some characters that we've not seen the last of yet...
With a cast of memorable main and supporting characters, I think SAVING THE DRAGON would suit most teenaged to adult readers. Though the book feels YA to me -- the language is accessible, straightforward, if occasionally anachronistic (which seems purposeful!) -- there are some moments of darkness in it, and the occasional pop of harsh language.
Personally, my favorite characters were those who we don't see as much of, though the book boasts a varied cast of characters who all take part in the final confrontation(s). Mary the cook is my personal favorite, and I found myself rooting for her and Tiffany (the Princess protagonist's handmaid) as the book went on. Sure, our protagonists deserve praise for the courage and ingenuity they show, but I love supporting characters who have their friends' backs through thick and thin.
SAVING THE DRAGON feels to me like Hans-Christian Andersen mashed up with Disney's TANGLED, and it gets its tone just right: it wants to tell a familiar-feeling tale and ensure that the reader has a ton of fun reading it! I'm looking forward to the sequel, and hope there are some characters that we've not seen the last of yet...
April 1, 2022
Forbidden Magic & Romance
This was a fun start to the series, we're introduced to a princess with magical talent and her father's forbidden her to learn/practice it. They visit her Godfather (a wizard) only after she promises not to ask him to teach her and meets his nephew who is her age and of course very attractive.... Secrets are revealed and secret bonds begin to form causing a chain of events that will test them all. It's a fun romantic adventure that will appeal to romance, fantasy and dragon fans.
Parents- PG13- more young adult +15 and up
Language: moderate bad language and there are 2 or 3 f-bombs
Violence: normal to genre, nothing to warn of
Sexual Content- There's a scene where guards are talking about wanting to rape a girl, there's a beginning bedroom scene but gets interrupted
The narrator was ok 3⭐, there were some sound issues mostly around the beginning of the chapters but once you got past that and speed it up to 1.25-1.35x speed it was much better.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
This was a fun start to the series, we're introduced to a princess with magical talent and her father's forbidden her to learn/practice it. They visit her Godfather (a wizard) only after she promises not to ask him to teach her and meets his nephew who is her age and of course very attractive.... Secrets are revealed and secret bonds begin to form causing a chain of events that will test them all. It's a fun romantic adventure that will appeal to romance, fantasy and dragon fans.
Parents- PG13- more young adult +15 and up
Language: moderate bad language and there are 2 or 3 f-bombs
Violence: normal to genre, nothing to warn of
Sexual Content- There's a scene where guards are talking about wanting to rape a girl, there's a beginning bedroom scene but gets interrupted
The narrator was ok 3⭐, there were some sound issues mostly around the beginning of the chapters but once you got past that and speed it up to 1.25-1.35x speed it was much better.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 8, 2021
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Sara and Booktasters for this opportunity.
3.5 stars
I'll admit that, when I began reading this book, I thought I could see where it was going. I thought, too, that I had the characters sussed right from the off. The rebellious princess, the stern father, the handsome and mysterious prince. In the back of my mind, I thought 'I've seen this sort of thing before.'
God, was I wrong!
This is a very difficult book to review without ruining the plot. The biggest takeaway I want to give readers is this. Beware, nothing is as it seems.
As is common with the first book in a series, this one took a little time to get into the action. The set-up took a while, but it was worth it. There's plenty of swooning romance, with a smattering of action. By the end of the story, I was hooked. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
3.5 stars
I'll admit that, when I began reading this book, I thought I could see where it was going. I thought, too, that I had the characters sussed right from the off. The rebellious princess, the stern father, the handsome and mysterious prince. In the back of my mind, I thought 'I've seen this sort of thing before.'
God, was I wrong!
This is a very difficult book to review without ruining the plot. The biggest takeaway I want to give readers is this. Beware, nothing is as it seems.
As is common with the first book in a series, this one took a little time to get into the action. The set-up took a while, but it was worth it. There's plenty of swooning romance, with a smattering of action. By the end of the story, I was hooked. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 15, 2022
This is the first book in what I hope to be a great series!
The story begins rather cliche for this genre, our lead character is Penelope, a courageous, strong and independent princess who wants to study magic. However, her father has forbidden her to study magic - of course that in itself isn’t going to stop her!
The most intoxicating thing for me about this story was the fact that it had a dragon in it! I love dragons! I love looking at dragons, reading about dragons and hearing about dragons!
Overall, this is a beautiful short and sweet fantasy story which I thoroughly enjoyed. The narration was perfect and the plot was magical, exciting and definitely something I will be recommending to many!
A solid 4 stars
🌟🌟🌟🌟
I would like to thank @lucyturnspages for providing me with a review copy (Audio) of this book in exchange for my honest review. Views and opinions are my own and have not been influenced by anyone.
The story begins rather cliche for this genre, our lead character is Penelope, a courageous, strong and independent princess who wants to study magic. However, her father has forbidden her to study magic - of course that in itself isn’t going to stop her!
The most intoxicating thing for me about this story was the fact that it had a dragon in it! I love dragons! I love looking at dragons, reading about dragons and hearing about dragons!
Overall, this is a beautiful short and sweet fantasy story which I thoroughly enjoyed. The narration was perfect and the plot was magical, exciting and definitely something I will be recommending to many!
A solid 4 stars
🌟🌟🌟🌟
I would like to thank @lucyturnspages for providing me with a review copy (Audio) of this book in exchange for my honest review. Views and opinions are my own and have not been influenced by anyone.
July 7, 2021
Saving the Dragon (Penelope's Dragon Book 1)
by Sara R. Cleveland
This book is a fantasy story woven with adventure.The book comes from the perspective of a princess who wish to learn a magic and her persistent father who wish that her curosity about magic comes to an end.
The story takes a turn when she and her father travel to met her estrange godfather and his nephew .She met a person ,fall in love knowing the result that it will not end better or will not be accepectable to his father.she is courageous to choose her own path both in relationship and a professional life.few people are able to keep both her emotional and professional life independent .
I enjoyed the book but i felt that there is something off i cant pin-point the problem, fast pace of the story or the hurried ending .Again i will recommend this story who like to read fantasy and easy going story.
by Sara R. Cleveland
This book is a fantasy story woven with adventure.The book comes from the perspective of a princess who wish to learn a magic and her persistent father who wish that her curosity about magic comes to an end.
The story takes a turn when she and her father travel to met her estrange godfather and his nephew .She met a person ,fall in love knowing the result that it will not end better or will not be accepectable to his father.she is courageous to choose her own path both in relationship and a professional life.few people are able to keep both her emotional and professional life independent .
I enjoyed the book but i felt that there is something off i cant pin-point the problem, fast pace of the story or the hurried ending .Again i will recommend this story who like to read fantasy and easy going story.
November 10, 2021
AMAZING. FUN. MAGICAL
Glad that I have the opportunity to read such an amazing book. Saving The Dragon is a fun and well-written novel where it wouldn't allow the reader to take off their eyes away from reading it. The way the author writes the story is definitely amazing as it was written in detail. It was as if you're seeing the whole story displayed in front of you. Definitely thumbs up to the author :D
Other than that, I also loved the characters especially Penelope. She is not the damsel in distress type of princess. She is that strong, smart, and brave kind of princess (She really has my respect! ;) ).
Well, I won't write too much of the book (Trying to avoid spoilers) but if you love fantasy, magic, and mages type of genre, I totally recommended this book. You will find joy in reading it, just like me. :)
Glad that I have the opportunity to read such an amazing book. Saving The Dragon is a fun and well-written novel where it wouldn't allow the reader to take off their eyes away from reading it. The way the author writes the story is definitely amazing as it was written in detail. It was as if you're seeing the whole story displayed in front of you. Definitely thumbs up to the author :D
Other than that, I also loved the characters especially Penelope. She is not the damsel in distress type of princess. She is that strong, smart, and brave kind of princess (She really has my respect! ;) ).
Well, I won't write too much of the book (Trying to avoid spoilers) but if you love fantasy, magic, and mages type of genre, I totally recommended this book. You will find joy in reading it, just like me. :)
July 20, 2022
I first want to say that I listened to the audiobook version, and that note has never been more important than for this book because it’s a big reason this is rated a 3 and not a 4 for a fluff fantasy novel.
I was truly hopeful for this to be a story that would pull me in and help make my drive fly by. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. The story isn’t half bad. There are a couple of plot holes and some unnecessary jumps, but it has an interesting premise. The recording, however, was extremely rough. The voices didn’t fit the characters, and the chapter breaks were loud and distracting. One of the things I dislike about audiobooks is when the narration distractions from the story, and this one does. I honestly, wish I’d have read the book instead because I probably would’ve overlooked a lot of the things I didn’t like about the story if I had.
I was truly hopeful for this to be a story that would pull me in and help make my drive fly by. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. The story isn’t half bad. There are a couple of plot holes and some unnecessary jumps, but it has an interesting premise. The recording, however, was extremely rough. The voices didn’t fit the characters, and the chapter breaks were loud and distracting. One of the things I dislike about audiobooks is when the narration distractions from the story, and this one does. I honestly, wish I’d have read the book instead because I probably would’ve overlooked a lot of the things I didn’t like about the story if I had.
July 24, 2021
This fairy tale fantasy world will catch you since the first moment. Magic everywhere, kingdoms, princesses and princes and lovely side characters. The unique universe of “Saving the Dragon” has absolutely everything to be exploited and become an intriguing and catchy magical series.
However, my only critique is that the events happened really fast. The main characters had just met and they were already professing their love for each other. The villain had a lot of potential but, again, due to the quickness of everything, she couldn’t be very well appreciated. Great writing and plot, though. As I said, this story has everything to be an amazing fantasy universe.
However, my only critique is that the events happened really fast. The main characters had just met and they were already professing their love for each other. The villain had a lot of potential but, again, due to the quickness of everything, she couldn’t be very well appreciated. Great writing and plot, though. As I said, this story has everything to be an amazing fantasy universe.
March 22, 2022
Penelope has been forbidden to study magic, but that doesn’t stop her from trying. Her life takes an interesting turn when she accompanies her father on a visit to her Godfather, and meets his nephew.
I was immediately drawn into this tale by Sara R. Cleveland. I was invested in the characters and loved seeing how everything unfolded.
Overall, the quality of the audio was lacking. Hilary Dickinson portrayed the characters well, but everything sounded like it was in a tunnel. It was very noticeable at the beginning of each chapter, and it took a few moments to get used to it.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
I was immediately drawn into this tale by Sara R. Cleveland. I was invested in the characters and loved seeing how everything unfolded.
Overall, the quality of the audio was lacking. Hilary Dickinson portrayed the characters well, but everything sounded like it was in a tunnel. It was very noticeable at the beginning of each chapter, and it took a few moments to get used to it.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
February 28, 2022
Couple reasons for this.
One, the audio. The way it’s been recorded doesn’t sound great. Narrator is ok but the echo and static isn’t good.
Two, the characters just don’t grab my interest. No real need for me to find out how their story continues and I don’t really by the relationship. There’s no smut and I’d call this series YA with a slight amount of bad language.
All in all the story really just needs to be more. I’m not invested, the romance isn’t great and the world building is sub par.
Gifted audio in exchange for an honest review.
One, the audio. The way it’s been recorded doesn’t sound great. Narrator is ok but the echo and static isn’t good.
Two, the characters just don’t grab my interest. No real need for me to find out how their story continues and I don’t really by the relationship. There’s no smut and I’d call this series YA with a slight amount of bad language.
All in all the story really just needs to be more. I’m not invested, the romance isn’t great and the world building is sub par.
Gifted audio in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2022
I really enjoyed this clever fantasy that featured a princess who wanted to practice magic even though her father forbade it. The world building was interesting. The characters were fascinating and complex. There was magic and a dragon, two very important elements in a fantasy story. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book to others who enjoy this genre. Hilary Dickinson's narration was mediocre, and her voice lacked expression. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily posted this review.
June 22, 2021
I would like to thank the Author and the Booktasters for the chance to review this book.
Saving the dragon is a cute fast-pace fantasy book the evolves dragon, magic, evil witch and a daring princess. It's a very enjoyable book I think I was expecting a bit more when I was reading it a little bit more danger, maybe seeing more of the dragon in action but that didn't take away me enjoying the book. I am looking forward to reading the sequel and any other books that this lovely author wrights.
Saving the dragon is a cute fast-pace fantasy book the evolves dragon, magic, evil witch and a daring princess. It's a very enjoyable book I think I was expecting a bit more when I was reading it a little bit more danger, maybe seeing more of the dragon in action but that didn't take away me enjoying the book. I am looking forward to reading the sequel and any other books that this lovely author wrights.
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