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Dragon Valley’s Lady #1
Risa's Destiny
Are you ready to enter the darkness?
Risa Nightshade’s life has gone from bad to worse. First, she was separated from her twin, then her parents perished in a terrible fire, leaving her all alone. Except, of course, for the village filled with humans… Who hate her.
The reason her family was taken from her resides in that village, but change is coming in the form of the Great Dragon, the guardian of the village, who has taken her as his own.
Can those from her past come together to keep Risa safe and find out what really happened to her family or will hidden secrets and unknown enemies burn the world down around them?
Are you ready to come out into the light if hope holds?
Note: This is a second edition with new edits and extended scenes. It also contains LGBTQ scenes, Strong females and sexy males, with crossing of swords it is a why choose story meaning she will have many men and not have to pick just one. Adult scenes 18+
Risa Nightshade’s life has gone from bad to worse. First, she was separated from her twin, then her parents perished in a terrible fire, leaving her all alone. Except, of course, for the village filled with humans… Who hate her.
The reason her family was taken from her resides in that village, but change is coming in the form of the Great Dragon, the guardian of the village, who has taken her as his own.
Can those from her past come together to keep Risa safe and find out what really happened to her family or will hidden secrets and unknown enemies burn the world down around them?
Are you ready to come out into the light if hope holds?
Note: This is a second edition with new edits and extended scenes. It also contains LGBTQ scenes, Strong females and sexy males, with crossing of swords it is a why choose story meaning she will have many men and not have to pick just one. Adult scenes 18+
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2020
63 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Starkie
12 books158 followersRachel Starkie grew up in Manchester, England, residing with her supportive family. With a love for learning about animals and nature, she went on to attended Hull University @ Scarbrough, resulting in a Bachelor of Science in Coastal Marine Biology. Dolphins being one of her favorite animals have found their way not just into her logos but also her shifter tales. Rachel relishes in creating worlds full of unique and amazing characters, where people lose themselves.
Her outgoing nature allows her to see and feel the world at her fingertips so she can bring it to her readers. Inspiration comes from all angles, and you can see that in the pretty resin items that double as swag and other bits of fun. All resin is hand-poured into often commissioned molds. Rachel can not wait to share her worlds with you, so stop in for a cuppa and sit for a spell.
Her outgoing nature allows her to see and feel the world at her fingertips so she can bring it to her readers. Inspiration comes from all angles, and you can see that in the pretty resin items that double as swag and other bits of fun. All resin is hand-poured into often commissioned molds. Rachel can not wait to share her worlds with you, so stop in for a cuppa and sit for a spell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 17, 2021
Outcast changeling Risa (FMC) lives in a village that hates her as well as any Paranormal being. Having lost her parents in a house fire shes learning to cope on her own so when shes chosen in a ballot to be sacrificed to the dragon thats protecting the village thats when her eyes are opened. To Dragons, Wolves, Elves....so many Supernatural characters and they hot as hell!! Bringing plenty of steamy scenarios with them. Phew....swoon! So much happens in this book that there isnt much i could say without giving away a lot of the plot. Just to say that its fast - paced with so much going on it that it keeps you gripped from the very beginning. I genuinely loved all the characters in this book and there was so moment WTH moments in it that i had to re-read some parts to make sure id read them right. A great read and im looking forward to the next book
June 2, 2020
Not for me
So, I'm unsure why she loves the Hermit due to the situation surrounding the death of her parents. It also starts with saying she is alone in the town where everyone hates her because she's the only nonhuman but then you find out about the werewolf Apollo and the human Ben (who was childhood friends but also a total douche to her around other humans?) who have put special things in her house along with the Hermit that makes her swoon, gush, and feel loved. This felt really contradictory to the original foundation of the story. Considering her alienation from the townspeople you would imagine she is a bit stronger and can take care of herself but she is saved by other men. I just felt how she acted didn't jive her implied really negative and hurtful experiences from the past. And then she has a twin brother that had to be left behind and a whole other past with dragons and councils, oi-vey this feels all over the place and confusing. There seems to be a mix of older and modern slang which made things feel a bit disjointed. Overall, I felt it lacked maturity, real reactions/behaviors, and felt just a bit thin even though there seems to be a good idea and story. These were some of the initial issues that put me off or pulled me out of the story. I don't think I'll be continuing the series, but give it a try as you may not have the same issues with it as I did.
So, I'm unsure why she loves the Hermit due to the situation surrounding the death of her parents. It also starts with saying she is alone in the town where everyone hates her because she's the only nonhuman but then you find out about the werewolf Apollo and the human Ben (who was childhood friends but also a total douche to her around other humans?) who have put special things in her house along with the Hermit that makes her swoon, gush, and feel loved. This felt really contradictory to the original foundation of the story. Considering her alienation from the townspeople you would imagine she is a bit stronger and can take care of herself but she is saved by other men. I just felt how she acted didn't jive her implied really negative and hurtful experiences from the past. And then she has a twin brother that had to be left behind and a whole other past with dragons and councils, oi-vey this feels all over the place and confusing. There seems to be a mix of older and modern slang which made things feel a bit disjointed. Overall, I felt it lacked maturity, real reactions/behaviors, and felt just a bit thin even though there seems to be a good idea and story. These were some of the initial issues that put me off or pulled me out of the story. I don't think I'll be continuing the series, but give it a try as you may not have the same issues with it as I did.
August 26, 2020
Whew Holy Hotness
This was a very good read and very full of hotness! Can not wait until the next book as I am very intrigued as to where this will go!
This was a very good read and very full of hotness! Can not wait until the next book as I am very intrigued as to where this will go!
May 6, 2020
Can't get past this writing style
I can't read this, I've tried for 3 hours now and I just had to stop, I made it to about chapter five before I realized this book was not for me. This writing style is not one I particularly like, it can be confusing and childish. The few pages I did read made such little sense, the characters are also so confusing. Not my cup of tea
I can't read this, I've tried for 3 hours now and I just had to stop, I made it to about chapter five before I realized this book was not for me. This writing style is not one I particularly like, it can be confusing and childish. The few pages I did read made such little sense, the characters are also so confusing. Not my cup of tea
May 20, 2020
I finished the first chapter and wondered how it got through editing, it only got worse from there. The writing style is very confusing and almost like it's written for a child. I hope the author finds a new editor
August 26, 2021
Enjoyable but needs direction.
The reason for the 3 stars was not for the content of the book, but for all the misspelled and grammar errors. One wrong word could and did change the meaning which means the reader has to go back and forth to get a clear understanding of what was just read.
Even so,I look forward to finding out more about the characters and were they fit into the story.
I would suggest that the proofreading be done by more than one person. A follow-up to catch any mistakes. I did enjoy the book regardless of the minor imperfections.
I hope that book 2 will improve the style and become better. This book at times went off in many directions and then came back on track.
The reason for the 3 stars was not for the content of the book, but for all the misspelled and grammar errors. One wrong word could and did change the meaning which means the reader has to go back and forth to get a clear understanding of what was just read.
Even so,I look forward to finding out more about the characters and were they fit into the story.
I would suggest that the proofreading be done by more than one person. A follow-up to catch any mistakes. I did enjoy the book regardless of the minor imperfections.
I hope that book 2 will improve the style and become better. This book at times went off in many directions and then came back on track.
January 6, 2021
When things get hot they are positively steamy!
Definitely not a slow burn. Risa's Destiny kicks into gear at a steady pace, as does the tension when the underlying conflict is laid out. A full cast of interesting characters, changelings, demons, wolf shifters, hellcats, mermen, elves, goddesses, reapers, and dragons. I'm sure there are more I missed. This world has a lot to offer. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
Definitely not a slow burn. Risa's Destiny kicks into gear at a steady pace, as does the tension when the underlying conflict is laid out. A full cast of interesting characters, changelings, demons, wolf shifters, hellcats, mermen, elves, goddesses, reapers, and dragons. I'm sure there are more I missed. This world has a lot to offer. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
February 13, 2021
This is an interesting and entertaining story with a cast of colorful characters. The author does a great job developing the story and pulled me in with the fast paced story line. Overlooking the editing , I thought this was a well written book with detailed and descriptive scenes. I enjoyed the story and am looking forward to more in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
May 1, 2020
Can you believe this is her debut book???? Oh my God this book is awesome. The characters are well written, The plot is defined and clear since the beginning and the main character is a bad ass sassy lady, I love Risa!!!! And fell in love with all of her guys, thanks God we don´t have to choose!!! And that surprise that begins with an E at the end of the book??? My God I need book two fast!
May 3, 2020
I love Risa and her guys. She's badass and she doesn't let anyone screw her over metaphorically, but literally it is another story ;)
Her guys are amazing. They protect, cherish and love her and don't hesitate to have her back when she needs to take a stand. And Z... Well, he is one of my favorite characters. I was so excited to get to know what was happening with Risa and Z.
I can't wait to read book 2.
I kindly received an ARC from the author, but I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
Her guys are amazing. They protect, cherish and love her and don't hesitate to have her back when she needs to take a stand. And Z... Well, he is one of my favorite characters. I was so excited to get to know what was happening with Risa and Z.
I can't wait to read book 2.
I kindly received an ARC from the author, but I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
August 23, 2020
So good!!
I loved this.. So many different characters with so many different species.. This book has a great story line that held my attention. I absolutely love how it likes a story of 2 people in way (R&Z) there's so much I wanna say but I don't want to give too much a way!! I can't wait till the 2nd book!!
I loved this.. So many different characters with so many different species.. This book has a great story line that held my attention. I absolutely love how it likes a story of 2 people in way (R&Z) there's so much I wanna say but I don't want to give too much a way!! I can't wait till the 2nd book!!
November 5, 2020
This is my 1st read and review for this author and it’s a great start to this new series and I can’t wait to read the next book, sorry guys no spoilers so read the blurb and that will give you the gist to this story. I enjoyed the characters but sometimes they acted a bit childish but it’s a great story and I recommend this book.
November 28, 2020
This was a very nice quick read that I finished in one sitting. It moves along at a nice pace making for a comfortable read. The characters are interesting and you want to know more about them. The story will grab you and keep you reading till you reach the end and then you are wanting more. This is a must read, no doubt about it.
February 11, 2021
This is Risa and story is full of interesting characters, changelings, demons, wolf shifters, hellcats, mermen, elves, goddesses, reapers, and dragons. This book has a lot to offer. I can not wait to read the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2025
What the fuck? I thought this series was complete but it very clearly is not! This series was really good but how can it take 2 plus years to write the next book especially after leaving us where you did?! This is unacceptable and beyond cruel. Please let me know if I am wrong and missing a book or something because this series can not just end here!
May 1, 2020
This book is so good. From the way the fast pasted romance it is, The character development is pretty good. I would love if there are some things explained more in a bit more detail. But other than that the book is very good.
July 12, 2020
Unique and interesting
What a refreshingly different RH PRN. This was my first book by This Author and I was pleasantly surprised. What a great start with so much potential. I look forward to seeing where this goes!
What a refreshingly different RH PRN. This was my first book by This Author and I was pleasantly surprised. What a great start with so much potential. I look forward to seeing where this goes!
November 30, 2020
Risa's story is intriguing that has a great pace. The writing has a great flow, details and twists. Characters are interesting and I can't wait to read more about them. I am very excited for book two.
May 8, 2021
I need more!
This book is absolutely awesome, the only downsides are random spell checking and wishing the guys had longer pov. Other than that the fact I can't read book 2 😭 it's so freaking amazing the mfc is just op with this been fast burn. Can't wait to read more. JL
This book is absolutely awesome, the only downsides are random spell checking and wishing the guys had longer pov. Other than that the fact I can't read book 2 😭 it's so freaking amazing the mfc is just op with this been fast burn. Can't wait to read more. JL
August 15, 2020
Loved it
This book had all the feels. Risa and her men are hilarious and sexy. Can’t wait for the next book. If you love a bit of mm with your rh this is the book for you
This book had all the feels. Risa and her men are hilarious and sexy. Can’t wait for the next book. If you love a bit of mm with your rh this is the book for you
August 27, 2020
First book from this author and not the last def more men then I’ve read in her harem but no less good I can’t wait to read the next one!!
October 25, 2020
Yes it was a lot that happened but oh my gods was it amazing!!! I want a dragon shifter to be my mate lol. It was well written and super fun to read! Truly a great book!
January 23, 2021
It was good
July 3, 2020
Very interesting
I adored the beginning. I loved the them and I liked the writing and I loved how the author wrote about her changeling. It’s fast paced and as we get into the story she gets a lot of males. Almost to much for me as there are like 7 maybe more as it’s hard to keep track of a big group. Excited for the next book to see how it goes.
I adored the beginning. I loved the them and I liked the writing and I loved how the author wrote about her changeling. It’s fast paced and as we get into the story she gets a lot of males. Almost to much for me as there are like 7 maybe more as it’s hard to keep track of a big group. Excited for the next book to see how it goes.
January 14, 2021
This is my first time reading a true reverse harem book. It took me a little bit to get used to the idea of multiple partners as our society is so monogamous.
However, I quickly learned that each of the men in Risa's life needed to be there. It also made sense that each person, even Risa, has so many layers that no one can help to handle them all.
This story implied that your partners are destined. It was very eye-opening on how our interactions with others last within us for a long time, and sometimes forever. Each of the men earned their place in her heart, as well as their place in the group. Risa refused to mate with anyone who was not accepted by everyone.
I must admit there is a larger story beyond the harem and it was totally worth reading, however, to tell that story would take me through all of Risa's feelings for her family group.
This is a book I enjoyed reading but never would have thought to look for.
However, I quickly learned that each of the men in Risa's life needed to be there. It also made sense that each person, even Risa, has so many layers that no one can help to handle them all.
This story implied that your partners are destined. It was very eye-opening on how our interactions with others last within us for a long time, and sometimes forever. Each of the men earned their place in her heart, as well as their place in the group. Risa refused to mate with anyone who was not accepted by everyone.
I must admit there is a larger story beyond the harem and it was totally worth reading, however, to tell that story would take me through all of Risa's feelings for her family group.
This is a book I enjoyed reading but never would have thought to look for.
June 26, 2020
Risa's Destiny
Loved this book! The characters are amazing and keep you entertained the whole time and the story flowed so well that you don't even realise that you are about to read the epilogue until you see the heading and think 'oh damn! When did that happen?' This is a one sitting book it pulls you in that easily and holds you firmly there until the last page. Definitely add this to your reading list.
Loved this book! The characters are amazing and keep you entertained the whole time and the story flowed so well that you don't even realise that you are about to read the epilogue until you see the heading and think 'oh damn! When did that happen?' This is a one sitting book it pulls you in that easily and holds you firmly there until the last page. Definitely add this to your reading list.
April 20, 2020
Fantastic books and such a great read!!! Well done Rachel, I'm looking forward to seeing more books from you!! ❤
May 15, 2020
Not ready for publication
I really wanted to like this but it just fell short. This book just wasn't ready for publication. There are typos and grammatical errors galore. The characters' names actually change, (Elizabeth to Elisabeth) sometimes in the same paragraph. There are run on sentences and incompetence sentences. I usually don't make a big deal about grammar but this was bad.
The book also needed a good content edit. The writing is all tell, no show. The timelines just don't add up. There are a lot of things that were weird, borderline icky. Like the character having a child that she never knew about. That makes no sense. The way her brother an uncle interact with her is inappropriate and gross. Seriously, her brother wanted to take a shower with her at one point. The writing style was really quite juvenile, like maybe this was the first time the author wrote anything. But that type of writing style made reading the sex scenes really uncomfortable. The characters act like children but are supposedly all adults.
Bottom line, I can't recommend this book as it is right now. I hope the author pulls it and does some real edits though because I think she's got an interesting idea here. She mentioned in the end that she wants to do a companion series for the twin brother. That would be really cool and unique but I think she should fix this book before publishing more. I hope she keeps writing because the idea here is really neat but this book wasn't ready for publication yet.
I really wanted to like this but it just fell short. This book just wasn't ready for publication. There are typos and grammatical errors galore. The characters' names actually change, (Elizabeth to Elisabeth) sometimes in the same paragraph. There are run on sentences and incompetence sentences. I usually don't make a big deal about grammar but this was bad.
The book also needed a good content edit. The writing is all tell, no show. The timelines just don't add up. There are a lot of things that were weird, borderline icky. Like the character having a child that she never knew about. That makes no sense. The way her brother an uncle interact with her is inappropriate and gross. Seriously, her brother wanted to take a shower with her at one point. The writing style was really quite juvenile, like maybe this was the first time the author wrote anything. But that type of writing style made reading the sex scenes really uncomfortable. The characters act like children but are supposedly all adults.
Bottom line, I can't recommend this book as it is right now. I hope the author pulls it and does some real edits though because I think she's got an interesting idea here. She mentioned in the end that she wants to do a companion series for the twin brother. That would be really cool and unique but I think she should fix this book before publishing more. I hope she keeps writing because the idea here is really neat but this book wasn't ready for publication yet.
May 6, 2020
omg! fabulous book!! eager for the next 💚
December 5, 2020
What to say about this work other than there is a lot going on. There are many characters that make it a little hard to keep them all straight and the next thing you know there are more characters coming out of the woodwork. I liked how the story started but over time it seemed to evolve into a massive orgy. There was a lot of backstory woven in, making there being a lot of facts to keep straight. A rereading would be recommended to make sure you have everything straight. The main female seemed to be one way at the start of the story but by the end of the story her demeanor changed making it hard to grasp who she really was. The ending definitely hinted that there were major facts kept from the main character and something big was probably going to happen in the next work.
I give this a three out of five stars. There were a lot of characters in this, making it a little hard to keep everything straight. There was a lot of information in the plot that it was hard to remember at times and keep everything straight. I would probably read the next to see what happens but wouldn’t be heartbroken if I missed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I give this a three out of five stars. There were a lot of characters in this, making it a little hard to keep everything straight. There was a lot of information in the plot that it was hard to remember at times and keep everything straight. I would probably read the next to see what happens but wouldn’t be heartbroken if I missed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews