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Princess Adele's Dragon
Princess Adele sets out to save her and her brothers Kingdom from a beast that threatens their way of life. What she encounters is totally unexpected and sets her on a new path. If you like gothic times with Kings, Princess's, Castles and bad guys then you will like this young adult fantasy. You will fall in love, hate the bad guy and fight war.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2016
1 person is currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Shirley McLain
18 books67 followersEnjoying my retirement from Nursing, after 33 years, is my main goal right now. I
live outside Sapulpa Oklahoma with my husband, Lee and our six dogs and one cat. It’s like having a house full of three year olds. Never a dull moment.
I’ve several publications, My first book, “Crimes and Retribution” is a juvenile mystery, based in Oklahoma, but takes you around the world. I have published an ebook of short stories of different genres called “Shirley’s Shorts and Flashes.” I also published a short ebook of
Christian Poetry called “Verses For My King.
My latest is called "Thomas Gomel Learns about Bullying". It is a fictional story that follows a young boy from his first day of school being bullied until he and his family worked a plan to save Thomas and to help the bully. It has a two real stories of bullying as well as a helpful section for parents.
live outside Sapulpa Oklahoma with my husband, Lee and our six dogs and one cat. It’s like having a house full of three year olds. Never a dull moment.
I’ve several publications, My first book, “Crimes and Retribution” is a juvenile mystery, based in Oklahoma, but takes you around the world. I have published an ebook of short stories of different genres called “Shirley’s Shorts and Flashes.” I also published a short ebook of
Christian Poetry called “Verses For My King.
My latest is called "Thomas Gomel Learns about Bullying". It is a fictional story that follows a young boy from his first day of school being bullied until he and his family worked a plan to save Thomas and to help the bully. It has a two real stories of bullying as well as a helpful section for parents.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 4, 2023
There are lots of fantasy dragon books out there but only a few tell an engaging story with their authors crafting a awesome plot twist without the clichés. One such author who fits this bill is Shirley McLain in her novel, ‘Princess Adele’s Dragon.’
The book revolves around Princess Adele, a sister to King Robert who is grieving the loss of her fiancée Prince Anthony who disappeared six years ago. With danger lurking in the caves in the form of a dragon, the King has to sacrifice a child in order to appease the dragon and save his kingdom. Irked by this, Princess Adele vows to fight this dragon and save their kingdom. However, when Adele arrives at the cave and unearths a long-kept dragon secret, things swiftly go awry.
Adele learns the truth about Anthony's abduction as well as the betrayal of two of her closest friends as a result of this revelation. In this novel, Adele's path takes a lot of turns. She struck me as a very strong female figure, one in whom I had complete sympathy. Although she had to make difficult decisions, she did so with the courage and dignity expected of a protagonist in a good book. However, when Adele enters the cave and learns a secret the dragon has been keeping, things swiftly go wrong.
Despite the slow moving start, you will soon find yourself spellbound by this enthralling page turner complete with drama, suspense and plot twist. In addition McLain takes great strides in fleshing out each character throughout the book. Really deserving a five star!!
January 16, 2023
Princess Adele’s Dragon rates in the range of 4 ½ to 5 stars out of five. There is a fairytale-like feeling to the setting and the book. It seems to be aimed at younger readers – I would say around middle-grade age. The author does not waste a lot of time describing the scene, and little more describing the characters except where they need it.
There is a lot of action from the very beginning. Here is the problem: the kingdom of Valdoria is being menaced by a dragon. King Robert, Princess Adele’s brother, has decided, on the advice of his advisor to sacrifice a child to the dragon at the next full moon. Of course, like any sensible person, Princess Adele thinks this is unconscionable. Unlike most people, Adele plans to secretly confront the dragon herself. Then either the dragon will be dead, or she will have served as his sacrifice.
But this straightforward beginning opens up into a much more complicated plot when Adele reaches the dragon and discovers that he is not at all like her idea of what a dragon should be. In no time she begins to feel sorry for him. Then she kisses him. And suddenly, there is no dragon. Only Prince Anthony, Princess Adele’s fiancé, who has been missing for the past six years.
Prince Anthony, who is as sharp in his way as Princess Adele is in hers, informs Adele and Robert of the betrayal of the King’s advisor, Lord Ashmore, and Princess Adele’s ladies’ maid, Miranda. Once they know they are found out, Miranda and Ashmore are forced to flee the castle. But that is far from the end of them.
There are lots of other supporting characters without whom the story would fizzle out. There is Bethelda, the Witch (also known as the Hag) of Bitmore Swamp, the person who created the spell that first turned Anthony into a dragon. There is also Bruce Chambers, captain of the King’s guard who goes undercover and is invaluable at finding what Lord Ashmore is up to. There is Mickael Nickerson, Lord Ashmore’s nephew, and second-in-command. And others.
The action never stops, and every time you think you know what is going to happen, you are as surprised at the next turn of events as Princess Adele and her friends.
There is a lot of action from the very beginning. Here is the problem: the kingdom of Valdoria is being menaced by a dragon. King Robert, Princess Adele’s brother, has decided, on the advice of his advisor to sacrifice a child to the dragon at the next full moon. Of course, like any sensible person, Princess Adele thinks this is unconscionable. Unlike most people, Adele plans to secretly confront the dragon herself. Then either the dragon will be dead, or she will have served as his sacrifice.
But this straightforward beginning opens up into a much more complicated plot when Adele reaches the dragon and discovers that he is not at all like her idea of what a dragon should be. In no time she begins to feel sorry for him. Then she kisses him. And suddenly, there is no dragon. Only Prince Anthony, Princess Adele’s fiancé, who has been missing for the past six years.
Prince Anthony, who is as sharp in his way as Princess Adele is in hers, informs Adele and Robert of the betrayal of the King’s advisor, Lord Ashmore, and Princess Adele’s ladies’ maid, Miranda. Once they know they are found out, Miranda and Ashmore are forced to flee the castle. But that is far from the end of them.
There are lots of other supporting characters without whom the story would fizzle out. There is Bethelda, the Witch (also known as the Hag) of Bitmore Swamp, the person who created the spell that first turned Anthony into a dragon. There is also Bruce Chambers, captain of the King’s guard who goes undercover and is invaluable at finding what Lord Ashmore is up to. There is Mickael Nickerson, Lord Ashmore’s nephew, and second-in-command. And others.
The action never stops, and every time you think you know what is going to happen, you are as surprised at the next turn of events as Princess Adele and her friends.
Read
January 15, 2023Told through multiple point of views, 'Princess Adele's Dragon,' by Shirley McLain is the type of fantasy novel that can be enjoyed on many levels. Firstly, the setting. The kingdom of Valdoria is as rich and thought-provoking as any classic fantasy land. While reading, I could easily picture myself there fighting dragons or tending to cattle.
Secondly, the characters. I absolutely loved Princess Adele and her kick-butt attitude. I loved that she was a trained fighter (how often do you see that in female characters in fantasy books? Not very often, I can tell you!) and that she also had a sympathetic and very soft side.
I really appreciated Prince Anthony and his story, as well. What a great hero! He reminded me a lot of the hero, Westley in the cult classic novel, 'Princess Bride,' the way he was torn from his love and eventually returned a much different, darker man.
Adele and Anthony had an admirable love that waited for years, but didn't completely take over the plot once they were reunited. I appreciated how developed and subtle the plot was.
The revelation that Miranda, one of Adele's closest friends was secretly attempting to steal the throne took me by surprise and made me grieve for their friendship, despite only seeing it for a short while in the beginning of the book. On top of this, the usage of the dragon and Anthony's need to use it to help secure the kingdom was masterful.
I really enjoyed this book and I think any lovers of fantasy, adventure or romance would, too! McLain has really created a very special world within these novels and I hope to read more of it in the future!
I will most certainly be looking for the second book in this series whenever it is announced!
Secondly, the characters. I absolutely loved Princess Adele and her kick-butt attitude. I loved that she was a trained fighter (how often do you see that in female characters in fantasy books? Not very often, I can tell you!) and that she also had a sympathetic and very soft side.
I really appreciated Prince Anthony and his story, as well. What a great hero! He reminded me a lot of the hero, Westley in the cult classic novel, 'Princess Bride,' the way he was torn from his love and eventually returned a much different, darker man.
Adele and Anthony had an admirable love that waited for years, but didn't completely take over the plot once they were reunited. I appreciated how developed and subtle the plot was.
The revelation that Miranda, one of Adele's closest friends was secretly attempting to steal the throne took me by surprise and made me grieve for their friendship, despite only seeing it for a short while in the beginning of the book. On top of this, the usage of the dragon and Anthony's need to use it to help secure the kingdom was masterful.
I really enjoyed this book and I think any lovers of fantasy, adventure or romance would, too! McLain has really created a very special world within these novels and I hope to read more of it in the future!
I will most certainly be looking for the second book in this series whenever it is announced!
December 28, 2022
A one-of-a-kind novel that packs a magical punch! 'Princess Adele's Dragon,' is a very unique and dazzling book in an unassuming package.
The novel revolves around the Princess Adele, who, at the beginning of the book is grieving the loss of her fiancé, Prince Anthony, who disappeared six years earlier.
Now, Adele's brother, King Robert intends to sacrifice a child to appease the dragon that lurks in a cave in their kingdom. Horrified by this idea, Adele resolves to seek out the dragon and slay it by herself, in the hopes that she can spare the child and her kingdom from the great beast's wrath. But things quickly go awry when Adele makes it to the cave and discovers a secret that the dragon has been hiding for years.
This revelation leads Adele to the truth of Anthony's disappearance, as well as a discovery about the betrayal of two people that she holds dear. Adele's journey in this book takes a lot of twists and turns. I found her to be a very empowering character and one that I rooted for the whole way through. Her choices were not easy ones, but she made them with the kind of grace and bravery that all good book protagonists should exhibit.
This is the first book by Shirley McLain that I have read, and I was really impressed by her writing ability and her storytelling. This is a great book for any lovers of romance and the Fantasy/Adventure genres. If you're looking for an easy read in that genre without a lot of unnecessary padding, this is the book for you!
I can promise that you will get an interesting story and a fantastic reading experience that you won't soon forget. I recommend adding this one to your 'to-be-read' list right away!
The novel revolves around the Princess Adele, who, at the beginning of the book is grieving the loss of her fiancé, Prince Anthony, who disappeared six years earlier.
Now, Adele's brother, King Robert intends to sacrifice a child to appease the dragon that lurks in a cave in their kingdom. Horrified by this idea, Adele resolves to seek out the dragon and slay it by herself, in the hopes that she can spare the child and her kingdom from the great beast's wrath. But things quickly go awry when Adele makes it to the cave and discovers a secret that the dragon has been hiding for years.
This revelation leads Adele to the truth of Anthony's disappearance, as well as a discovery about the betrayal of two people that she holds dear. Adele's journey in this book takes a lot of twists and turns. I found her to be a very empowering character and one that I rooted for the whole way through. Her choices were not easy ones, but she made them with the kind of grace and bravery that all good book protagonists should exhibit.
This is the first book by Shirley McLain that I have read, and I was really impressed by her writing ability and her storytelling. This is a great book for any lovers of romance and the Fantasy/Adventure genres. If you're looking for an easy read in that genre without a lot of unnecessary padding, this is the book for you!
I can promise that you will get an interesting story and a fantastic reading experience that you won't soon forget. I recommend adding this one to your 'to-be-read' list right away!
May 3, 2016
This book is somewhere around 3.5-4*
I was given a copy of this book by the author to review. Thoughts and opinions are all my own.
One thing I find particularly refreshing about this story is the fact that Princess Adele is sister to the King, rather than daughter, which sheds a light on something different to the typical father/daughter relationship often seen in books containing royalty. I also love how Adele is sometimes the heroine, yet Anthony also gets his time to shine. Often authors try too hard to make the female lead always be the leader and yes, whilst it is nice to see strong-willed women in books, it gets a little tiresome when the male characters get constantly played down just to raise the female higher.
To read or not to read: Read. What this book lacks in emotional depth and description, it makes up for with a fantastically woven story that has a fairy-tale feel whilst being different to everything I’ve read before. It contains dragons, magic and royalty – what’s not to love! It’s a quick and easy read, guaranteed to get you hooked and pulled in to the land of Valdoria.
Full review here
I was given a copy of this book by the author to review. Thoughts and opinions are all my own.
One thing I find particularly refreshing about this story is the fact that Princess Adele is sister to the King, rather than daughter, which sheds a light on something different to the typical father/daughter relationship often seen in books containing royalty. I also love how Adele is sometimes the heroine, yet Anthony also gets his time to shine. Often authors try too hard to make the female lead always be the leader and yes, whilst it is nice to see strong-willed women in books, it gets a little tiresome when the male characters get constantly played down just to raise the female higher.
To read or not to read: Read. What this book lacks in emotional depth and description, it makes up for with a fantastically woven story that has a fairy-tale feel whilst being different to everything I’ve read before. It contains dragons, magic and royalty – what’s not to love! It’s a quick and easy read, guaranteed to get you hooked and pulled in to the land of Valdoria.
Full review here
dnf
May 10, 2016The writing needed work and it distracted me from the story. I thought that it could use some more description in relation to the character's themselves. From what I read I felt that the plot had potential; I would have been more interested in where it was leading if not for the writing.
January 4, 2023
Love is the thing that binds us together. The thing that can turn monsters into man. In some cases, like in Shirley McLain's fantasy novel, 'Princess Adele's Dragon (Witches and Dragons Book 1') that is the case in a more literal sense.
The kissing of a cheek turns a dragon back into a man, and the man happens to have been missing for a long time. Prince Anthony went missing from the kingdom of Valdoria six years earlier, just before he was set to marry his fiancé, Princess Adele.
Years later, still grieving his loss, Adele resolves to kill a dragon that has been attacking local villages. But it is only when she sees the dragon, only when she looks into it's beautiful and strangely familiar eyes that she realizes what—or rather, who-- it is.
With a kiss, the dragon turns back into Anthony and the lovers are reunited. However, when Anthony tells her about the hag that cursed him, and about the two individuals who hired her to do so, Adele understands that her kingdom is in danger, and that it has been for a long time already.
The two people that cursed Anthony are Lord Ashmore, the king's adviser and Miranda, Adele's closest friend. The two are lovers, scheming to steal the throne for themselves and attempting to kill both Adele and her brother, the king.
When Adele and Anthony return to the palace to warn the king, they find that the lovers have already fled, and that in order to hunt them down, they must call upon the help of the one person that Anthony hoped to never see again.
A killer novel that brought me in right from the beginning, 'Princess Adele's Dragon,' is one that definitely should not be skipped over. McLain’s world building is amazing and her character development is excellent!
The kissing of a cheek turns a dragon back into a man, and the man happens to have been missing for a long time. Prince Anthony went missing from the kingdom of Valdoria six years earlier, just before he was set to marry his fiancé, Princess Adele.
Years later, still grieving his loss, Adele resolves to kill a dragon that has been attacking local villages. But it is only when she sees the dragon, only when she looks into it's beautiful and strangely familiar eyes that she realizes what—or rather, who-- it is.
With a kiss, the dragon turns back into Anthony and the lovers are reunited. However, when Anthony tells her about the hag that cursed him, and about the two individuals who hired her to do so, Adele understands that her kingdom is in danger, and that it has been for a long time already.
The two people that cursed Anthony are Lord Ashmore, the king's adviser and Miranda, Adele's closest friend. The two are lovers, scheming to steal the throne for themselves and attempting to kill both Adele and her brother, the king.
When Adele and Anthony return to the palace to warn the king, they find that the lovers have already fled, and that in order to hunt them down, they must call upon the help of the one person that Anthony hoped to never see again.
A killer novel that brought me in right from the beginning, 'Princess Adele's Dragon,' is one that definitely should not be skipped over. McLain’s world building is amazing and her character development is excellent!
January 16, 2023
An absolutely stunning cover and a wonderful story to back it up! I was thoroughly enveloped by this story from the first page, when Princess Adele argues with her brother, King Robert about sacrificing a child to the dragon that lives in a cave in their kingdom.
Adele, of course, objects to the horrifying idea and, for his part, Robert doesn't love it either, but he feels that it is the only way to stop the dragon from attacking them over and over again. Storming off, Adele reasons that she can stop the dragon herself, as she has been trained to fight since she was a small child, but when she manages to get to the dragons cave, she quickly realizes that something is wrong.
The dragon seems oddly familiar. It does not attack her, but simply listens to her speak and when she eventually kisses it's cheek, the dragon transforms back into her fiancé, Anthony who has been missing for six years.
Adele is shocked, and dismayed to further learn that her closest friend, Miranda, had a hand in turning Anthony into the dragon. Miranda and her lover, the king's adviser, Lord Ashmore, wish to rule the kingdom themselves—and intend to do it by any means necessary. Now, Adele and Anthony must stop the pair themselves, with only their love and one very dangerous idea.
This is a highly binge-worthy Fantasy/Romance that is bound to warm up any cold winter evening. Shirley McLain's world building is wonderful and so full that I found myself totally engaged in the story. There are lots of strong characters and twists in this story to make it highly enjoyable!
I am giving these five stars based on the romance alone, but I would love to hear what everyone else has to say about it!
Adele, of course, objects to the horrifying idea and, for his part, Robert doesn't love it either, but he feels that it is the only way to stop the dragon from attacking them over and over again. Storming off, Adele reasons that she can stop the dragon herself, as she has been trained to fight since she was a small child, but when she manages to get to the dragons cave, she quickly realizes that something is wrong.
The dragon seems oddly familiar. It does not attack her, but simply listens to her speak and when she eventually kisses it's cheek, the dragon transforms back into her fiancé, Anthony who has been missing for six years.
Adele is shocked, and dismayed to further learn that her closest friend, Miranda, had a hand in turning Anthony into the dragon. Miranda and her lover, the king's adviser, Lord Ashmore, wish to rule the kingdom themselves—and intend to do it by any means necessary. Now, Adele and Anthony must stop the pair themselves, with only their love and one very dangerous idea.
This is a highly binge-worthy Fantasy/Romance that is bound to warm up any cold winter evening. Shirley McLain's world building is wonderful and so full that I found myself totally engaged in the story. There are lots of strong characters and twists in this story to make it highly enjoyable!
I am giving these five stars based on the romance alone, but I would love to hear what everyone else has to say about it!
January 16, 2023
“Adele sat on the cave floor with her back against the warm wall. “I'm going to sit here and think for a little bit.” Her eyes closed, and she drifted into a sound sleep. The dragon didn't move a muscle. It kept it's eyes fixed on her.”
There is nothing like a good adventure story to get the pulse pounding. 'Princess Adele's Dragon (Witches and Dragons Book 1),' by Shirley McLain is that in spades, with great characters, a fascinating world and so much more. I don't think that this is written down in any rule book, but personally, I think every great fantasy story must contain a dragon. If you don't have a dragon, what are you even doing in a fantasy kingdom? LOL!
The dragon in this story is extra special because he is not only a dragon, but the bewitched version of a former prince. Prince Anthony is the fiancé to the titular Princess Adele, the plucky princess of the kingdom of Valdoria.
Anthony has been missing for six years, but Adele has never given up hope that one day he will return to marry her, however, it is not this hope that brings her to the cave where the dragon lurks. No, this is a noble quest (and don't all good fantasy stories also have a noble quest?) to slay the dragon and protect the kingdom.
But when Adele discovers that the dragon is her fiancé and Anthony turns back into a human, well, let’s just say things get a little hectic after that and the two must fight a battle to save Adele's kingdom from evil usurpers who are trying to steal her brother's throne.
McLain’s world building is spectacular, as are her well drawn-out characters! This is a potent addition to the fantasy genre that begs to be read by any reader. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
There is nothing like a good adventure story to get the pulse pounding. 'Princess Adele's Dragon (Witches and Dragons Book 1),' by Shirley McLain is that in spades, with great characters, a fascinating world and so much more. I don't think that this is written down in any rule book, but personally, I think every great fantasy story must contain a dragon. If you don't have a dragon, what are you even doing in a fantasy kingdom? LOL!
The dragon in this story is extra special because he is not only a dragon, but the bewitched version of a former prince. Prince Anthony is the fiancé to the titular Princess Adele, the plucky princess of the kingdom of Valdoria.
Anthony has been missing for six years, but Adele has never given up hope that one day he will return to marry her, however, it is not this hope that brings her to the cave where the dragon lurks. No, this is a noble quest (and don't all good fantasy stories also have a noble quest?) to slay the dragon and protect the kingdom.
But when Adele discovers that the dragon is her fiancé and Anthony turns back into a human, well, let’s just say things get a little hectic after that and the two must fight a battle to save Adele's kingdom from evil usurpers who are trying to steal her brother's throne.
McLain’s world building is spectacular, as are her well drawn-out characters! This is a potent addition to the fantasy genre that begs to be read by any reader. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
January 16, 2023
For my last book of the 2022, this was an excellent choice. 'Princess Adele's Dragon (Witches and Dragons Book 1)' may not be my normal fare, but I think even people who don't often read fantasy would enjoy this.
The title character, Princess Adele takes it upon herself, in the beginning of the novel, to kill a dragon that has been terrorizing her kingdom for just short of a decade. Mind you, Adele has problems of her own, as her fiancée has been missing for just as long with no sign or hope of his returning. But perhaps that is part of the reason that she decides to go after the dragon. Not only to save the child that her brother, the king, intends to sacrifice to it, but also to save herself in some small way.
Either way, Adele cannot kill the dragon. But not because of any lack of skill. No, Adele is a very capable fighter, but when she looks into the dragons eyes she feels a strange pull to protect it. Soon, she understands why.
The dragon is not a dragon at all, but the cursed dragon form of her fiancé, Prince Anthony who is able to transform back into a human with a simple kiss on the cheek from Adele. Anthony reveals that one of Adele's best friends, Miranda, is partly responsible for his curse and that she and her lover are attempting to overthrow the king and take his throne for themselves.
With the help of the hag that cursed Anthony, the couple intend to stop Miranda and her lover, but soon find that they have more of a fight on their hands than they initially assumed.
Wrapping up my reading for the year with this compelling and moving story turned out to be a perfect ending! I loved every second! I can hardly wait for the sequel!
The title character, Princess Adele takes it upon herself, in the beginning of the novel, to kill a dragon that has been terrorizing her kingdom for just short of a decade. Mind you, Adele has problems of her own, as her fiancée has been missing for just as long with no sign or hope of his returning. But perhaps that is part of the reason that she decides to go after the dragon. Not only to save the child that her brother, the king, intends to sacrifice to it, but also to save herself in some small way.
Either way, Adele cannot kill the dragon. But not because of any lack of skill. No, Adele is a very capable fighter, but when she looks into the dragons eyes she feels a strange pull to protect it. Soon, she understands why.
The dragon is not a dragon at all, but the cursed dragon form of her fiancé, Prince Anthony who is able to transform back into a human with a simple kiss on the cheek from Adele. Anthony reveals that one of Adele's best friends, Miranda, is partly responsible for his curse and that she and her lover are attempting to overthrow the king and take his throne for themselves.
With the help of the hag that cursed Anthony, the couple intend to stop Miranda and her lover, but soon find that they have more of a fight on their hands than they initially assumed.
Wrapping up my reading for the year with this compelling and moving story turned out to be a perfect ending! I loved every second! I can hardly wait for the sequel!
January 4, 2023
I read this book all of the way through in one sitting because I couldn't put it down! 'Princess Adele's Dragon (Witches and Dragons Book 1') by Shirley McLain is one of the most thrilling stories that I have read in 2022, and I think if you pick it up you'll immediately see why.
This book does not skimp on the action, immediately bringing you into the world of the kingdom of Valdoria, right when the king is in the middle of making a huge and terrible decision. The king realizes that he must sacrifice a child to the dragon that has been terrorizing their kingdom for years, in order to appease it.
The king's sister, Princess Adele is obviously horrified by this prospect and privately vows to slay the dragon herself to spare the child. But, upon seeking out the dragon and seeing it in person, something stays Adele's hand.
She suddenly feels that she knows the dragon, and when she feels moved enough to kiss it's cheek, it transforms back into the shape of her long missing fiancé. Prince Anthony has been missing for six years, ever since one of the king's advisers enlisted the help of a local hag to turn him into a dragon, and now that he is back in his human form, Anthony and Adele realize that they must stop the king's adviser before he and his lover steal the throne for themselves.
I am not normally much of a fantasy reader, but I enjoyed this immensely and found myself more than ready for the next book in the series, whenever that may be coming. There was much to love here and much to be excited about! Five stars for this action-packed fantasy novel!
This book does not skimp on the action, immediately bringing you into the world of the kingdom of Valdoria, right when the king is in the middle of making a huge and terrible decision. The king realizes that he must sacrifice a child to the dragon that has been terrorizing their kingdom for years, in order to appease it.
The king's sister, Princess Adele is obviously horrified by this prospect and privately vows to slay the dragon herself to spare the child. But, upon seeking out the dragon and seeing it in person, something stays Adele's hand.
She suddenly feels that she knows the dragon, and when she feels moved enough to kiss it's cheek, it transforms back into the shape of her long missing fiancé. Prince Anthony has been missing for six years, ever since one of the king's advisers enlisted the help of a local hag to turn him into a dragon, and now that he is back in his human form, Anthony and Adele realize that they must stop the king's adviser before he and his lover steal the throne for themselves.
I am not normally much of a fantasy reader, but I enjoyed this immensely and found myself more than ready for the next book in the series, whenever that may be coming. There was much to love here and much to be excited about! Five stars for this action-packed fantasy novel!
February 19, 2023
A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW
19th February 2023
TITLE: Princess Adele's Dragon (Witches and Dragons Book 1)
Author: Shirley McLain
Star Rating: 4 stars
‘A compelling, character-led fantasy novel filled with twists and turns.’ A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
REVIEW
I must say, this is a very enjoyable fantasy adventure helped along by a strong female protagonist and a skilfully plotted story. The author works hard to keep thing moving and, although the writing style is simple, it works for the genre.
So, what´s the story? Well, in a nutshell, Princess Adele is determined to save her brother´s kingdom from a dragon. But when she confronts him, she´s in for a big surprise – as is the reader! It´s only then the adventure gets going BIG TIME, involving betrayal, terrible danger and possibly even war.
All in all, this is a solid fantasy novel. It´s not particularly long and, in many ways, I think it will go down best with young adult readers. There´s probably not the depth of character or setting to pull in the always ´difficult to keep happy´ Lord of the Rings reader. Still, there´s plenty of twists, turns (and magical elements) to keep most fantasy fans turning the page.
I´m very happy to recommend this novel to anybody who enjoys light fantasy; the sort focusing on the plot and not so much on the fantastical setting. I suspect readers between 12 – 15 will find it particularly enjoyable; they´ll love the fast pacing, the spirited dialogue and, best of all, the surprising twists.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
19th February 2023
TITLE: Princess Adele's Dragon (Witches and Dragons Book 1)
Author: Shirley McLain
Star Rating: 4 stars
‘A compelling, character-led fantasy novel filled with twists and turns.’ A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
REVIEW
I must say, this is a very enjoyable fantasy adventure helped along by a strong female protagonist and a skilfully plotted story. The author works hard to keep thing moving and, although the writing style is simple, it works for the genre.
So, what´s the story? Well, in a nutshell, Princess Adele is determined to save her brother´s kingdom from a dragon. But when she confronts him, she´s in for a big surprise – as is the reader! It´s only then the adventure gets going BIG TIME, involving betrayal, terrible danger and possibly even war.
All in all, this is a solid fantasy novel. It´s not particularly long and, in many ways, I think it will go down best with young adult readers. There´s probably not the depth of character or setting to pull in the always ´difficult to keep happy´ Lord of the Rings reader. Still, there´s plenty of twists, turns (and magical elements) to keep most fantasy fans turning the page.
I´m very happy to recommend this novel to anybody who enjoys light fantasy; the sort focusing on the plot and not so much on the fantastical setting. I suspect readers between 12 – 15 will find it particularly enjoyable; they´ll love the fast pacing, the spirited dialogue and, best of all, the surprising twists.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
January 1, 2023
Princess Adele's Dragon is the first book I have read by Shirley McLain, as well as, the first book I have had the pleasure of reading by this author. I thought it was a pretty good read. I enjoyed taking this magical adventure with Princess Adele. I thought it was a perfect example on why going outside my comfort zone and read something that is not from my go to genre.
I am giving Princess Adele's Dragon four and a half stars. I believe readers who are fans of gothic, fantasy and science fiction between the ages of eleven and fifteen will definitely want to snatch this one up and give it a read. I am looking forward to reading book two from the Witches and Dragons series to see where else Shirley McLain takes the characters.
I received a digital copy of Princess Adele's Dragon from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Princess Adele's Dragon four and a half stars. I believe readers who are fans of gothic, fantasy and science fiction between the ages of eleven and fifteen will definitely want to snatch this one up and give it a read. I am looking forward to reading book two from the Witches and Dragons series to see where else Shirley McLain takes the characters.
I received a digital copy of Princess Adele's Dragon from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
January 16, 2023
This book is an interesting read. There’s a curse at play, a feared dragon, betrayal and secret passages! Princess Adele is determined to save her kingdom by killing the dragon. What she discovers on her quest will not only shock her, but will throw the kingdom into chaos as well! This book has action, Danger, a dragon, betrayal, mystery, a witch, a quest, suspense, secret passages, magic, kingdoms, a curse, treason, treasure, war, battle and twists and turns!
April 14, 2022
Princess Adele's Dragon by Shirley McLain is a very well written and engaging fantasy. Magic and dragons, royalties... it has this fairytale feel and it immerses you in the fantasy world the author created. Adele is one fantastic character, sister of the king, - strong heroine. I'm rating the novel with 4.6 star. I believe all fantasy fans would enjoy it.
April 15, 2022
An easy to follow read with complex story and great characters. I enjoyed it a lot and I gave it to my son as well, he is around the 40% mark and says he enjoyed it and keeps reading the book. He loves dragons, this got him hooked :). So, I can easily recommend the book to young and experienced readers.
May 18, 2016
Princess Adele's Dragon - Review by Martha A. Cheves, Author of Stir, Laugh, Repeat; Think With Your Taste Buds; A Book and A Dish
When she arrived at the opening into the mountainside the creature used to enter and leave the mountain, she pulled out her sword, said a prayer. She took the first step inside the cave to face her destiny. As she worked her way down the cavern, the heat rose from deep in the cave... She stopped to rest and heard a sound coming from below. It sounded as if someone was crying. It tugged at her heart for an unknown reason. I wonder if the dragon trapped someone. It's the saddest thing I've heard in a long time... In a moment's time, the ground trembled in a rhythmic fashion. That meant one thing. The beast was on the move. At least, the crying stopped.
Princess Adele has gone in search of the dragon that has been destroying the surroundings. Her brother King Robert has been told by his advisor Lord Ashmore that the only way to tame the dragon is to sacrifie a girl child. Adele is determined that isn't to happen so she's gone in search of the dragon herself in hopes that she will be able to slay him. What she finds isn't something she would have ever expected. The dragon she finds quickly becomes "Princess Adele's Dragon." And he will protect her as well as her brother's kingdom to the end.
Princess Adele's Dragon is a book full of treason, friendship,love and even a witch who can cast some pretty mean spells. The real deceit comes when Adele and her brother find that two of the people they trust the most are out for one thing - to make the kingdom their own. They must hang on but at what cost?
This book may sound deep but it is really an easy read. It moves fast without losing your interest and attention to the events taking place. I think it's a book young readers would enjoy. I did.
When she arrived at the opening into the mountainside the creature used to enter and leave the mountain, she pulled out her sword, said a prayer. She took the first step inside the cave to face her destiny. As she worked her way down the cavern, the heat rose from deep in the cave... She stopped to rest and heard a sound coming from below. It sounded as if someone was crying. It tugged at her heart for an unknown reason. I wonder if the dragon trapped someone. It's the saddest thing I've heard in a long time... In a moment's time, the ground trembled in a rhythmic fashion. That meant one thing. The beast was on the move. At least, the crying stopped.
Princess Adele has gone in search of the dragon that has been destroying the surroundings. Her brother King Robert has been told by his advisor Lord Ashmore that the only way to tame the dragon is to sacrifie a girl child. Adele is determined that isn't to happen so she's gone in search of the dragon herself in hopes that she will be able to slay him. What she finds isn't something she would have ever expected. The dragon she finds quickly becomes "Princess Adele's Dragon." And he will protect her as well as her brother's kingdom to the end.
Princess Adele's Dragon is a book full of treason, friendship,love and even a witch who can cast some pretty mean spells. The real deceit comes when Adele and her brother find that two of the people they trust the most are out for one thing - to make the kingdom their own. They must hang on but at what cost?
This book may sound deep but it is really an easy read. It moves fast without losing your interest and attention to the events taking place. I think it's a book young readers would enjoy. I did.
May 23, 2016
All the elements of a good fantasy story are here and I enjoyed reading it. Clearly aimed at a younger readership it doesn't have the depth of world building you will find in much longer novels but I thought the characters and the original plot compensated for this to create a good read.
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April 16, 2016Officially reviewed for OnlineBookClub.org. Rating and review to come soon!
April 22, 2016
New twist on dragons
I enjoyed the read. Because I like dragons this book caught my eye. It was well written with all the elements of a good fantasy.
I enjoyed the read. Because I like dragons this book caught my eye. It was well written with all the elements of a good fantasy.
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