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Seven Kingdoms Tales #1
Le Trésor du Dragon
Choose your treasure carefully, thief…
Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons, is the last of the magnificent dragons of the Seven Kingdoms. Bitter and alone, he abandons the emptiness of his realm and retreats to the caverns beneath the palace. In the form of his dragon, he remains hidden from the world, protecting the Dragon’s Heart, the last legacy of his people – until he is disturbed by a most unlikely thief.
Carly Tate’s hiking trip to Yachats State Park takes an unexpected turn when she is caught in a sudden storm. Seeking shelter, she stumbles through a magical doorway into a cavern filled with treasure! Yet, as incredible as the piles of glittering gold and jewels are, her gaze is transfixed by the slumbering form of a magnificent dragon.
Carly’s appearance begins a series of events that will not only change Drago’s life but will affect all of the Seven Kingdoms. Can a centuries-old dragon protect his most valuable treasure, or will the evil that destroyed his race take Carly from him as well?
Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons, is the last of the magnificent dragons of the Seven Kingdoms. Bitter and alone, he abandons the emptiness of his realm and retreats to the caverns beneath the palace. In the form of his dragon, he remains hidden from the world, protecting the Dragon’s Heart, the last legacy of his people – until he is disturbed by a most unlikely thief.
Carly Tate’s hiking trip to Yachats State Park takes an unexpected turn when she is caught in a sudden storm. Seeking shelter, she stumbles through a magical doorway into a cavern filled with treasure! Yet, as incredible as the piles of glittering gold and jewels are, her gaze is transfixed by the slumbering form of a magnificent dragon.
Carly’s appearance begins a series of events that will not only change Drago’s life but will affect all of the Seven Kingdoms. Can a centuries-old dragon protect his most valuable treasure, or will the evil that destroyed his race take Carly from him as well?
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2015
632 people are currently reading
766 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Smith
261 books2,582 followersS.E. Smith is an internationally acclaimed, New York Times and USA TODAY Bestselling author of science fiction, romance, fantasy, paranormal, and contemporary works for adults, young adults, and children. She enjoys writing a wide variety of genres that pull her readers into worlds that take them away.
Readers can check out her website at https://sesmithfl.com and chat with her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/se.smith.5
Readers can check out her website at https://sesmithfl.com and chat with her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/se.smith.5
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
February 10, 2022
The Dragon’s Treasure by S E Smith
1st book in the Seven Kingdom series. Paranormal dragon shifter romance.
Carly is hiking in the mountains for a health benefit jumpstart, and ends up taking refuge in a cave that leads to a magical dragons treasure. Drago is a lonely dragon and the two become friends and more.
A cute romance where he respects but doesn’t really understand her issues. Where she is introduced to the fantasy of his world and falls in love.
Sweet and a bit spicy.
The start of a series that leads to an expansive world of fantasy and worlds of romance.
1st book in the Seven Kingdom series. Paranormal dragon shifter romance.
Carly is hiking in the mountains for a health benefit jumpstart, and ends up taking refuge in a cave that leads to a magical dragons treasure. Drago is a lonely dragon and the two become friends and more.
A cute romance where he respects but doesn’t really understand her issues. Where she is introduced to the fantasy of his world and falls in love.
Sweet and a bit spicy.
The start of a series that leads to an expansive world of fantasy and worlds of romance.
May 17, 2022
Reread as I'm planing on continue with the series
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This first book in the series had me feeling lukewarm. Wasn't bad but didn't swoon over the romance or the couple either. More of a mindless easy forgotten read but will most likely continue on with the series before I make up my mind about it
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This first book in the series had me feeling lukewarm. Wasn't bad but didn't swoon over the romance or the couple either. More of a mindless easy forgotten read but will most likely continue on with the series before I make up my mind about it
June 6, 2016
I love tales with girls and dragons.
A girl entered a dragon's home and she became part of his treasure.
Cute, short, free story.
A girl entered a dragon's home and she became part of his treasure.
Cute, short, free story.
October 11, 2017
Choose your treasure carefully, thief…
At first glance I loved the cover of this book, the synopsis was even better. Carly Tate’s hiking trip to Yachats State Park led her to a magically hidden cavern full of treasure guarded by Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons and the last dragons of the Seven Kingdoms. She awakens the magnificent sleeping dragon, her eyes on him instead of the vast treasure.
'Can I choose you?'
I liked the beginning, it was occasionally funny, Dragon's backstory was intriguing but something was a bit off about the hero and heroine's chemistry. It felt forced. The biggest problem I had was the heroine, she came across as a bit immature and reminded me of a young teen even though she was supposed to be a grown woman and an assistant manager of a small bank. She was dangerously awkward, clumsy and she even managed to hurt or knockout Drago by accident.
Here is an example of what Carly says and does after hitting Drago with a broom between his legs...
And it didn't end there, there was another accidental cringeworthy moment when they were about to kiss in bed. Yup, I really didn't like Carly and I just couldn't see her being the other half of this powerful ancient dragon shapeshifter. There was no chemistry or even spark between them. He was lonely for so long and she was the first woman to break through the magic and ignore his otherness. It was all a bit too convenient.
The author didn't give the hero much of a personality either. He was the typical brooding hero with a painful history and that's about it.
The lack of chemistry and an annoying heroine made this paranormal romance boring for me. There was a lot of telling and not enough showing, there was nothing much happening a lot of the time, and I had to force myself to keep reading making the 207 pages feel like a 500!
I wish the author had taken sometime to fleshing out her main characters. Especially Carly's character, giving her self confidence, strong personality and a well rounded background of a fully grown woman with experience instead of an extremely awkward 16 year old girl.
The Dragon's Treasure is the first in a whole new series and I hope the rest are much better when it comes to plot development, character development, romance and h/h chemistry.
And I hope I never come across another immature, quirky and horribly awkward heroine ever again.
At first glance I loved the cover of this book, the synopsis was even better. Carly Tate’s hiking trip to Yachats State Park led her to a magically hidden cavern full of treasure guarded by Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons and the last dragons of the Seven Kingdoms. She awakens the magnificent sleeping dragon, her eyes on him instead of the vast treasure.
'Can I choose you?'
I liked the beginning, it was occasionally funny, Dragon's backstory was intriguing but something was a bit off about the hero and heroine's chemistry. It felt forced. The biggest problem I had was the heroine, she came across as a bit immature and reminded me of a young teen even though she was supposed to be a grown woman and an assistant manager of a small bank. She was dangerously awkward, clumsy and she even managed to hurt or knockout Drago by accident.
Here is an example of what Carly says and does after hitting Drago with a broom between his legs...
“I… You startled me. Did that hurt?” she asked in a slightly squeaky tone. “Yes…. It hurts,” Drago responded, dropping the broom which made a loud clattering sound on the marble floors. “Oh. I’m so sorry.” Drago would have responded that he was alright, but Carly had bent over to pick up the broom again. At the same time, a small rodent ran out of the bathing chamber. Her loud scream and the upward movement of the broom echoed through his brain even as the end connected once more with his groin. His knees buckled at the second assault and he dropped to the floor. in agony. The frightened rodent scurried up his thigh. Carly swung the broom at the poor creature – and missed. The broom struck Drago instead. Pain exploded along the right side of Drago’s face. The rough bristles of the broom dragged a dirty path along his cheek, catching in the light beard covering his face, and depositing bits of dust, dirt, and leaves along the way.
And it didn't end there, there was another accidental cringeworthy moment when they were about to kiss in bed. Yup, I really didn't like Carly and I just couldn't see her being the other half of this powerful ancient dragon shapeshifter. There was no chemistry or even spark between them. He was lonely for so long and she was the first woman to break through the magic and ignore his otherness. It was all a bit too convenient.
The author didn't give the hero much of a personality either. He was the typical brooding hero with a painful history and that's about it.
The lack of chemistry and an annoying heroine made this paranormal romance boring for me. There was a lot of telling and not enough showing, there was nothing much happening a lot of the time, and I had to force myself to keep reading making the 207 pages feel like a 500!
I wish the author had taken sometime to fleshing out her main characters. Especially Carly's character, giving her self confidence, strong personality and a well rounded background of a fully grown woman with experience instead of an extremely awkward 16 year old girl.
The Dragon's Treasure is the first in a whole new series and I hope the rest are much better when it comes to plot development, character development, romance and h/h chemistry.
And I hope I never come across another immature, quirky and horribly awkward heroine ever again.
July 18, 2017
Carly Tate may be a little on the horizontally challenged body type spectrum but that doesn't mean she hasn't been trying to improve herself. Example in point is that she's currently on day four of 'Today Was The Day' about do a solo four mile hike on the Yachats State Park trails system.
Over the halfway point on her hike, the weather takes a turn for the worse as the skies look like they're about to unleash a major downpour. With no chance to outrun the oncoming storm Carly comes upon a decent sized crevice in a rock face that just might be big enough for her to hide in if the crevice leads to a cave of any type. Inching through the crevice, Carly is about to find out that she's found the entrance to a magical parallel world in which resides all types of paranormal entities including a real live fire breathing dragon.
And so begins the first tale in the Seven Kingdoms series.
* * * *
New series by a fav author that is a fusion of contemporary time line and a mythical magical parallel world in a similar manner as Hogswarts of Harry Potter fame. For fans of true fairy tale romance/fairy tale retelling this book and series is sure to be a hit. My personal take is the story has a Beauty & The Beast and Sleeping Beauty feel with an adults only tag.
Carly is a virginal working class girl struggling to fit in though her bestie Jenny (who I'm sure will be featured in a future installment) thinks she's perfect just the way she is. Bottom line though is Carly is klutzy and knows it but that doesn't stop her from living for the moment. Murphy's Law strikes once again as she crosses over into a magical world that houses a dragon who thinks she's out to steal treasure from his hoard.
Drago, last living dragon in the Seven Kingdoms, has given up on his kingdom and life in general waiting for the day he will cease to exist. Until then he's a guardian to a dead kingdom. Carly's appearance wakens feelings in Dragos he thought long dead.
The romance between the two has a feel good romantic quality not unlike that of a flower opening to the possibility of finding one's soul mate. I'm being overly generous when I say individual scenes between the two includes adult content material but marginally so which I guess will appeal to readers who avoid in-depth graphic adult content material.
For the most part the author concentrated on setting the stage for the series plot and laying out the world building elements at large. Readers will get to find out about the key players in the series and a mystery.suspense source as doesn't every fairy tale include a villain or two ......
My take away from this book is it's a different take on the TV series "Once Upon A Time though the actual world building is more Hogswart quality. I enjoyed the premise and manner the author has updated some of my favorite childhood fairy tales but not sure if I'm a fan ..... yet.
Over the halfway point on her hike, the weather takes a turn for the worse as the skies look like they're about to unleash a major downpour. With no chance to outrun the oncoming storm Carly comes upon a decent sized crevice in a rock face that just might be big enough for her to hide in if the crevice leads to a cave of any type. Inching through the crevice, Carly is about to find out that she's found the entrance to a magical parallel world in which resides all types of paranormal entities including a real live fire breathing dragon.
And so begins the first tale in the Seven Kingdoms series.
* * * *
New series by a fav author that is a fusion of contemporary time line and a mythical magical parallel world in a similar manner as Hogswarts of Harry Potter fame. For fans of true fairy tale romance/fairy tale retelling this book and series is sure to be a hit. My personal take is the story has a Beauty & The Beast and Sleeping Beauty feel with an adults only tag.
Carly is a virginal working class girl struggling to fit in though her bestie Jenny (who I'm sure will be featured in a future installment) thinks she's perfect just the way she is. Bottom line though is Carly is klutzy and knows it but that doesn't stop her from living for the moment. Murphy's Law strikes once again as she crosses over into a magical world that houses a dragon who thinks she's out to steal treasure from his hoard.
Drago, last living dragon in the Seven Kingdoms, has given up on his kingdom and life in general waiting for the day he will cease to exist. Until then he's a guardian to a dead kingdom. Carly's appearance wakens feelings in Dragos he thought long dead.
The romance between the two has a feel good romantic quality not unlike that of a flower opening to the possibility of finding one's soul mate. I'm being overly generous when I say individual scenes between the two includes adult content material but marginally so which I guess will appeal to readers who avoid in-depth graphic adult content material.
For the most part the author concentrated on setting the stage for the series plot and laying out the world building elements at large. Readers will get to find out about the key players in the series and a mystery.suspense source as doesn't every fairy tale include a villain or two ......
My take away from this book is it's a different take on the TV series "Once Upon A Time though the actual world building is more Hogswart quality. I enjoyed the premise and manner the author has updated some of my favorite childhood fairy tales but not sure if I'm a fan ..... yet.
July 19, 2017
This author is a weird case of hit-and-miss for me. I have read some of her stuff that is funny, lively, engaging and well-written.
This story was not. The writing was simplistic, there was a lot of telling and not a lot of showing, everything felt rushed, the world-building was pushed at me in staggering blocks. I kind of understand a bit since this is a first book in 8-book series and author clearly wanted to set the stage up in as many details as possible. Sadly it was all done in long explanatory rants, most of side-characters felt like clear sequel-baits and h/H had fairly poor chemistry.
Sorry, Ms Smith, hoping for better luck next time.
This story was not. The writing was simplistic, there was a lot of telling and not a lot of showing, everything felt rushed, the world-building was pushed at me in staggering blocks. I kind of understand a bit since this is a first book in 8-book series and author clearly wanted to set the stage up in as many details as possible. Sadly it was all done in long explanatory rants, most of side-characters felt like clear sequel-baits and h/H had fairly poor chemistry.
Sorry, Ms Smith, hoping for better luck next time.
November 8, 2021
I love me some dragons, pirates and a sea witch! I even enjoyed the cover of this novel, and all the characters! But the story kept me wanting more...like something is missing! Will at least try out the next book in hopes it gets better.
July 29, 2017
I wanted something light and easy and romance-y, but this was just bad. I made it a quarter of the way through the book and couldn't force myself to read anymore. I don't know why I thought it would get better. There were many good reviews on Amazon for this book and I'm completely baffled by that. Ugh.
December 19, 2019
"These stories bring to life heroines who are strong, smart, and innovative and heroes who are pure alpha with a vulnerability that will melt your heart."
Hmmmm, which part of that is the lie, I wonder?
Let's start with our heroine. Carly.
Is she "strong"? No. She's cheerful, yes, even though she hasn't had a good family life. But she has body issues that are so severe she's making me feel fat. I hated that she had to be constantly reassured that the hero preferred "cute and cuddly" instead of muscular. The "he hasn't said he loves me!!!" thing was also so freaking immature. Lady, he just told you you stole his heart, how is that not enough for you?
Is she "smart"? Not in a million years. I'm convinced the only reason she's still alive is because she's unbelievably lucky.
"Innovative"?? Ugh no. At what point is she innovative? She does literally nothing all book, except do the dishes and clean the castle. And managed to maim her dragon with a freaking broomstick. I mean.... I guess that's sort of innovative...??
Carly is a Mary Sue, all the way.
Is our hero an alpha and has a vulnerability? I mean... sort of? He's not all that alpha. He's ridiculously and conveniently in touch with Carly's insecurities, so he always heads off any discussion about her weight or her clumsiness with exactly the right words. That is presumably to stop the story from becoming a 3 book saga. But it's so annoyingly unrealistic... and basically goes to show Carly is not ready for a relationship because she doesn't love herself. She's an annoying insecure immature fat girl with a streak of luck the size of the Oort cloud.
World building is seriously lacking, too, which is extra annoying. And even more baffling is that the epilogue is a full 2 years later, while the Monster lady made it sound as though things had to be dealt with ASAP. They just... play house in their giant empty castle with all the empty villages surrounding them. And decide to have babies of course. ROLL EYES
Hmmmm, which part of that is the lie, I wonder?
Let's start with our heroine. Carly.
Is she "strong"? No. She's cheerful, yes, even though she hasn't had a good family life. But she has body issues that are so severe she's making me feel fat. I hated that she had to be constantly reassured that the hero preferred "cute and cuddly" instead of muscular. The "he hasn't said he loves me!!!" thing was also so freaking immature. Lady, he just told you you stole his heart, how is that not enough for you?
Is she "smart"? Not in a million years. I'm convinced the only reason she's still alive is because she's unbelievably lucky.
"Innovative"?? Ugh no. At what point is she innovative? She does literally nothing all book, except do the dishes and clean the castle. And managed to maim her dragon with a freaking broomstick. I mean.... I guess that's sort of innovative...??
Carly is a Mary Sue, all the way.
Is our hero an alpha and has a vulnerability? I mean... sort of? He's not all that alpha. He's ridiculously and conveniently in touch with Carly's insecurities, so he always heads off any discussion about her weight or her clumsiness with exactly the right words. That is presumably to stop the story from becoming a 3 book saga. But it's so annoyingly unrealistic... and basically goes to show Carly is not ready for a relationship because she doesn't love herself. She's an annoying insecure immature fat girl with a streak of luck the size of the Oort cloud.
World building is seriously lacking, too, which is extra annoying. And even more baffling is that the epilogue is a full 2 years later, while the Monster lady made it sound as though things had to be dealt with ASAP. They just... play house in their giant empty castle with all the empty villages surrounding them. And decide to have babies of course. ROLL EYES
July 27, 2017
The Dragons Treasure is such a let down, i dont even know where do i start from..
Firstly there is a HUGE story [dragons, merman, pirates, witch and whatnot], an entire new world with so many diversities, tried to fit in a few pages. I understand its a short story but there was no story building, no chemistry between the characters, it felt as if i am reading her idea book, where she pens down all her ideas, outlines and tries to create a background before starting to write a book.
I have read and re-read all the books from S.E.Smith, have loved them all and am a huge fan if her work but this one is not one of them.
Firstly there is a HUGE story [dragons, merman, pirates, witch and whatnot], an entire new world with so many diversities, tried to fit in a few pages. I understand its a short story but there was no story building, no chemistry between the characters, it felt as if i am reading her idea book, where she pens down all her ideas, outlines and tries to create a background before starting to write a book.
I have read and re-read all the books from S.E.Smith, have loved them all and am a huge fan if her work but this one is not one of them.
January 31, 2018
Not the strongest from this author, but it wasn't awful.
I still don't like the narrator, but yet I continue to only listen to her books instead of reading them. So that's on me.
I liked Little Knight. And was a little heart broken when that thing happened.
There wasn't much drama. Or I should say, it wasn't much action. There was a lot of telling instead of showing.
And it was a Beauty and the Beast story with Sleeping Beauty thrown in.
I will go ahead and listen to the next one, because it was alright.
I still don't like the narrator, but yet I continue to only listen to her books instead of reading them. So that's on me.
I liked Little Knight. And was a little heart broken when that thing happened.
There wasn't much drama. Or I should say, it wasn't much action. There was a lot of telling instead of showing.
And it was a Beauty and the Beast story with Sleeping Beauty thrown in.
I will go ahead and listen to the next one, because it was alright.
December 31, 2017
3.5 Stars
Sweet little tale of a grieving dragon shifter that is found by a wayward hiker that has unwittingly entered another dimension while exploring a cave. Good world-building for this hidden, magical realm on Earth. I will read the next one. I usually read spicier books than this with heroines that aren't like this one, but that was my only problem with it as I am an S.E. Smith fan.
Sweet little tale of a grieving dragon shifter that is found by a wayward hiker that has unwittingly entered another dimension while exploring a cave. Good world-building for this hidden, magical realm on Earth. I will read the next one. I usually read spicier books than this with heroines that aren't like this one, but that was my only problem with it as I am an S.E. Smith fan.
December 1, 2022
This book contained some great elements for me...there was dragon's, a new world, the love of a friend to never give up. I was pulled into the world that the author built. I really enjoyed her presentation of this story and will definitely be reading other works in this universe. I recommend this book if you enjoy reading about mythological creatures and their personalities.
did-not-finish
March 1, 2020This one could not hold my interest. The writing seemed a bit juvenile. I don't know. I may pick it up some other time but I gave up on it awhile back. Just now getting around to writing reviews/updates.
Want to read
September 22, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon US today (9/22/2020)! 🎁
May 3, 2018
I love any and all things S.E. Smith. I think she just brings a new element in today's world. If you ever talk to her about what she writes she will always make sure that there is a happy ending. She does not like gorge nor does she like anything that will make you have nightmares for years. This book is light when it is called for but also has some substance.
Carly is your typical average girl. A girl that has meat on her bones and someone who is just trying to figure out what she wants in life. Drago is a person who takes everything to heart. He feels everything deeply and that makes for a great brooding hero. The meeting is not by accident.
There were times where I thought Carly just accepted things to quickly. She never really panicked like most people would. I know that it is a story however I wanted her to look at him and tell him that he needs to just go to the mental hospital or she should go because this isn't real. She did think that she was dying or in a coma but that lasted just 2.2 seconds.
This story is just the beginning of the fight between good and evil but yet is the Sea Witch really evil? There are instances and people that refute that claim. I cannot wait to see what happens with Drago and Carly later on in books. I also want to see what happens to Carly's bestie, Jenny in The Sea King's Lady. I hope that they get to see one another again since Carly has been really sad about not seeing Jenny and telling her that she is okay.
Carly is your typical average girl. A girl that has meat on her bones and someone who is just trying to figure out what she wants in life. Drago is a person who takes everything to heart. He feels everything deeply and that makes for a great brooding hero. The meeting is not by accident.
If you have read some of Susan's other series you will know what I mean.Things are happening in the seven kingdoms and bringing in outsiders is the only way to stop the madness that is going/has happened.
There were times where I thought Carly just accepted things to quickly. She never really panicked like most people would. I know that it is a story however I wanted her to look at him and tell him that he needs to just go to the mental hospital or she should go because this isn't real. She did think that she was dying or in a coma but that lasted just 2.2 seconds.
This story is just the beginning of the fight between good and evil but yet is the Sea Witch really evil? There are instances and people that refute that claim. I cannot wait to see what happens with Drago and Carly later on in books. I also want to see what happens to Carly's bestie, Jenny in The Sea King's Lady. I hope that they get to see one another again since Carly has been really sad about not seeing Jenny and telling her that she is okay.
October 5, 2017
The idea of this book is great, but I hated Carly.
There's a point where being awkward turns into just plain stupid. On top of that, she acted like an awkward 16 year old middle school girl the entire book.
There were some funny spots, but overall she was annoying. I mean, come on you tell the guy you love him after 2 days and then get upset when he doesn't say anything back! Excuse me while my eyes roll so far back into my head they might get stuck. Seriously, it was a genuine fear for a second.
Drago wasn't bad, but he didn't really have much going for him. He was the sad, brooding dragon and that's about it. There isn't much going on with him. I think the author tried to give Carly so much personality (back fired) that she didn't really give any to him.
It was pretty slow moving, which I can't decide if it was because of the story or the character personalities.
2.5 starts overall
There's a point where being awkward turns into just plain stupid. On top of that, she acted like an awkward 16 year old middle school girl the entire book.
There were some funny spots, but overall she was annoying. I mean, come on you tell the guy you love him after 2 days and then get upset when he doesn't say anything back! Excuse me while my eyes roll so far back into my head they might get stuck. Seriously, it was a genuine fear for a second.
Drago wasn't bad, but he didn't really have much going for him. He was the sad, brooding dragon and that's about it. There isn't much going on with him. I think the author tried to give Carly so much personality (back fired) that she didn't really give any to him.
It was pretty slow moving, which I can't decide if it was because of the story or the character personalities.
2.5 starts overall
August 25, 2017
So I am having a really hard time with the review for this one. I really wanted to like it more than I did. To be honest it was a little too similar to some of her other books. I was hoping for a different story. It sounded dramatic from the blurb but the story felt rush, the heroine was just TOO TSTL, and then the story is unfinished. Ugh! Not really a cliffhanger but sure felt like one. Also there is a list of a series for this written in 2015 but only one book is available. So for now don't expect the story to be wrapped up yet.
I liked it and am willing to give a little with the rating and gave it 2.5 rounded up to 3.
I liked it and am willing to give a little with the rating and gave it 2.5 rounded up to 3.
July 20, 2017
An exciting start and come on, who doesn't love dragons???!!!!
I loved the concept of the 7 Isles and there different people and powers but unfortunately, I grew bored with the story line and the characters. After Carly enters the Dragon Isle, very little actually happen. I feel like it could have been a lot more exciting and entertaining.
I loved the concept of the 7 Isles and there different people and powers but unfortunately, I grew bored with the story line and the characters. After Carly enters the Dragon Isle, very little actually happen. I feel like it could have been a lot more exciting and entertaining.
March 7, 2020
4 Stars
September 6, 2017
I was so excited when I found out that the newsletter freebies from this author were going to be made into novellas. I really liked the stories and couldn't wait for them to be lengthened. This one was just so much fun. The world is fascinating, the magic great, and the characters fun. And given the chance, I like to think that I too would ask if I could choose the dragon as my treasure. How could I not!?
I loved Carly because she was so believable and quite amusing with her quirks. There was just so much about her that was so easy to relate to, and while that made me jealous (yes, of a fictional character) of what she got, you can't help but like the girl.
I also quite liked Drago. He's hot, confident and a great man. After a decade of loneliness and sleeping away the time, he is reawakened in more than one way when Carly appears before him. She changes him quite a bit, and he becomes a dragon sweet on her willing to do anything for her. We don't get to see him fight at all, but he has to be a great warrior...right? He's a dragon, and a king after all.
Carly was out hiking one day when a huge storm moved in on her. She quickly finds out that yelling at the sky gods does not help (something that I have also learned numerous times on my own walks) and things keep getting worse. She finds safety from the storm inside a cave. Drawn by light, she ventures farther in until she finds herself in a huge cavern filled with gold. And a dragon. Her whole life Carly has loved dragons and so she can't help but be drawn to it. What she doesn't expect is for it to be real.
When the evil sea witch had tuned every single one of Drago's people into stone, he was left alone with nothing but silence and crushing hopelessness. After moving all his people inside, he sets up an impassable barrier around his island and goes to sleep inside his hidden treasure room. He knows the second that Carly steps inside but doesn't move until she touches him. When he tells her to choose her treasure carefully and she chooses him, his curiosity is peaked.
Carly is so happy with this world and dragon-man that she has found herself with that she questions whether she's dead or it's all in her head. But as time goes on her happiness only increases. Her and Drago spend everyday exploring his kingdom or each other. It's only when, weeks later, Drago brings up going to other islands for different foods and more supplies that things change. Their trip and stay there were interesting for all. Frustrating for Drago though when he is ambushed by the other leaders or their representation for a meeting on how to deal with the sea witch. On the way back, something terrible happens to Carly and Drago doesn't find out soon enough. When he finds her, he wants to panic but there's nothing he can do. So he resigns himself to follow her when she takes her last breathe. But his little thief has indeed stolen a dragon's heart and a great reward comes to them both.
While I loved pretty much everything about this story, there is one thing I wish would have been touched upon more. I wanted to know more about the ties between Carly and Drago. Especially because Carly could see them occasionally. Was it a mating bond? Was it just the link Drago created? Would it allow them to hear each other like Drago could the rest of his people? It was just something neat that I would have liked more on.
I loved Carly because she was so believable and quite amusing with her quirks. There was just so much about her that was so easy to relate to, and while that made me jealous (yes, of a fictional character) of what she got, you can't help but like the girl.
I also quite liked Drago. He's hot, confident and a great man. After a decade of loneliness and sleeping away the time, he is reawakened in more than one way when Carly appears before him. She changes him quite a bit, and he becomes a dragon sweet on her willing to do anything for her. We don't get to see him fight at all, but he has to be a great warrior...right? He's a dragon, and a king after all.
Carly was out hiking one day when a huge storm moved in on her. She quickly finds out that yelling at the sky gods does not help (something that I have also learned numerous times on my own walks) and things keep getting worse. She finds safety from the storm inside a cave. Drawn by light, she ventures farther in until she finds herself in a huge cavern filled with gold. And a dragon. Her whole life Carly has loved dragons and so she can't help but be drawn to it. What she doesn't expect is for it to be real.
When the evil sea witch had tuned every single one of Drago's people into stone, he was left alone with nothing but silence and crushing hopelessness. After moving all his people inside, he sets up an impassable barrier around his island and goes to sleep inside his hidden treasure room. He knows the second that Carly steps inside but doesn't move until she touches him. When he tells her to choose her treasure carefully and she chooses him, his curiosity is peaked.
Carly is so happy with this world and dragon-man that she has found herself with that she questions whether she's dead or it's all in her head. But as time goes on her happiness only increases. Her and Drago spend everyday exploring his kingdom or each other. It's only when, weeks later, Drago brings up going to other islands for different foods and more supplies that things change. Their trip and stay there were interesting for all. Frustrating for Drago though when he is ambushed by the other leaders or their representation for a meeting on how to deal with the sea witch. On the way back, something terrible happens to Carly and Drago doesn't find out soon enough. When he finds her, he wants to panic but there's nothing he can do. So he resigns himself to follow her when she takes her last breathe. But his little thief has indeed stolen a dragon's heart and a great reward comes to them both.
While I loved pretty much everything about this story, there is one thing I wish would have been touched upon more. I wanted to know more about the ties between Carly and Drago. Especially because Carly could see them occasionally. Was it a mating bond? Was it just the link Drago created? Would it allow them to hear each other like Drago could the rest of his people? It was just something neat that I would have liked more on.
August 17, 2017
The Dragon’s Treasure by S. E. Smith
Seven Kingdoms Tale – Book 1
Montana Publishing
Fantasy, Paranormal, Action/Adventure Romance
Reviewed by Nikita
Long, long ago, peace reigned over the Isles of the Seven Kingdoms. Each kingdom: the Isles of the Dragon, Sea Serpent, Magic, Giants, Elements, Pirates, and Monsters were ruled by seven powerful leaders who watched over their realms. Each ruler was given a gift by the Goddess who created their world; a gift that promised harmony among the kingdoms as long as these gifts were kept safe and not used against each other. The rulers were fair and just, and understood their kingdoms needed each other to flourish. Alas, the peace was not to last. One night a strange and brilliant light fell from the sky and landed in the ocean. Those who saw the meteor streak through the dark skies made lighthearted wishes. One went to find it.
Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons, has been alone since all of his people fell under a dark spell that has turned them all to stone. After gathering all that he could find, he put a spell of protection over his island and went to ground. He would do all in his power to break the evil spell on his people, as soon as a way could be found.
Carly Tate’s trip to Yachats State Park takes an unexpected turn when she is caught in a sudden storm. Seeking shelter, she stumbles through a magical doorway into a cavern filled with treasure! Yet, as incredible as the piles of glittering gold and jewels are, her gaze is transfixed by the slumbering form of a magnificent dragon. Carly’s appearance begins a series of events that will not only change Drago’s life, but will affect all of the Seven Kingdoms. Can a centuries old dragon protect his most valuable treasure, or will the evil that destroyed his race take Carly from him as well?
S.E. Smith’s The Dragon’s Treasure is a very interesting fantasy that has flavours of an adult fairy tale. I say interesting, because as a rule, I really don’t like, nor have I ever liked, fairy tales…but in typical S.E. Smith fashion (anything she writes is an auto-buy for me), I did enjoy this book. The Dragon’s Treasure has action and adventure, sorrow and joy, and best of all fantastic characters that I really tried not to like—it didn’t work LOL! Yes, I did become prejudiced against this story as soon as I got that ‘fairy tale’ feel, but S.E. Smith made me love both this story and it’s many wonderful characters…and I am actually dying to read The Sea King’s Lady that features Carly’s best friend and roommate that has been frantically trying to find her since she disappeared.
I do highly recommend The Dragon’s Treasure as it is a wonderful read and really, anything by S.E. Smith (whispers—especially the Dragon Lords of Valdier. You’ll no doubt adore the hijinks of the dragonlings.) 😊
Seven Kingdoms Tale – Book 1
Montana Publishing
Fantasy, Paranormal, Action/Adventure Romance
Reviewed by Nikita
Long, long ago, peace reigned over the Isles of the Seven Kingdoms. Each kingdom: the Isles of the Dragon, Sea Serpent, Magic, Giants, Elements, Pirates, and Monsters were ruled by seven powerful leaders who watched over their realms. Each ruler was given a gift by the Goddess who created their world; a gift that promised harmony among the kingdoms as long as these gifts were kept safe and not used against each other. The rulers were fair and just, and understood their kingdoms needed each other to flourish. Alas, the peace was not to last. One night a strange and brilliant light fell from the sky and landed in the ocean. Those who saw the meteor streak through the dark skies made lighthearted wishes. One went to find it.
Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons, has been alone since all of his people fell under a dark spell that has turned them all to stone. After gathering all that he could find, he put a spell of protection over his island and went to ground. He would do all in his power to break the evil spell on his people, as soon as a way could be found.
Carly Tate’s trip to Yachats State Park takes an unexpected turn when she is caught in a sudden storm. Seeking shelter, she stumbles through a magical doorway into a cavern filled with treasure! Yet, as incredible as the piles of glittering gold and jewels are, her gaze is transfixed by the slumbering form of a magnificent dragon. Carly’s appearance begins a series of events that will not only change Drago’s life, but will affect all of the Seven Kingdoms. Can a centuries old dragon protect his most valuable treasure, or will the evil that destroyed his race take Carly from him as well?
S.E. Smith’s The Dragon’s Treasure is a very interesting fantasy that has flavours of an adult fairy tale. I say interesting, because as a rule, I really don’t like, nor have I ever liked, fairy tales…but in typical S.E. Smith fashion (anything she writes is an auto-buy for me), I did enjoy this book. The Dragon’s Treasure has action and adventure, sorrow and joy, and best of all fantastic characters that I really tried not to like—it didn’t work LOL! Yes, I did become prejudiced against this story as soon as I got that ‘fairy tale’ feel, but S.E. Smith made me love both this story and it’s many wonderful characters…and I am actually dying to read The Sea King’s Lady that features Carly’s best friend and roommate that has been frantically trying to find her since she disappeared.
I do highly recommend The Dragon’s Treasure as it is a wonderful read and really, anything by S.E. Smith (whispers—especially the Dragon Lords of Valdier. You’ll no doubt adore the hijinks of the dragonlings.) 😊
December 6, 2025
Made it a bit past the halfway point before I gave up.
I was in the mood for some lovey fluff and grabbed this on Hoopla. It was not what I was hoping for. The FMC is unbelievably ditsy and dumb. She says and does things that no adult would do. Another reviewer left instances of it, and I recommend you read that before choosing this book. The MMC has no personality. The two of them fall instantly for each other, with no buildup of trust, romance, or lust. They just suddenly go at it and I couldn't have cared less. The sex scenes were lackluster.
The magic and world seemed cute but the story was crawling by without much of it in there. Aside from them being fated mates and him not seeing another person for a few years, I'm not sure why he loved her so much. It mentions how time slowed for the land under his spell, him included, so you're thinking it's been a thousand, maybe two thousand years, right? Nope, it's been a decade..... that's it. All the other rulers were like, "Oh, hey, he's awake," and it was no big deal. It would have been way more impactful if it had been like a thousand years or something. This just sounded like a little nap, not really that inconvenient or hard on him.
The only thing I liked about it was the paper birds he made her so that she felt less lonely.
His calling her Little Thief, and his name being Drago, reminded me of Thea Harrison's book Dragon Bound , which is a much better book, and I highly recommend it. (Sure, his name is Dragos but it's damn close, plus she steals from him and there's actual danger, tension, and buildup)
I was in the mood for some lovey fluff and grabbed this on Hoopla. It was not what I was hoping for. The FMC is unbelievably ditsy and dumb. She says and does things that no adult would do. Another reviewer left instances of it, and I recommend you read that before choosing this book. The MMC has no personality. The two of them fall instantly for each other, with no buildup of trust, romance, or lust. They just suddenly go at it and I couldn't have cared less. The sex scenes were lackluster.
The magic and world seemed cute but the story was crawling by without much of it in there. Aside from them being fated mates and him not seeing another person for a few years, I'm not sure why he loved her so much. It mentions how time slowed for the land under his spell, him included, so you're thinking it's been a thousand, maybe two thousand years, right? Nope, it's been a decade..... that's it. All the other rulers were like, "Oh, hey, he's awake," and it was no big deal. It would have been way more impactful if it had been like a thousand years or something. This just sounded like a little nap, not really that inconvenient or hard on him.
The only thing I liked about it was the paper birds he made her so that she felt less lonely.
His calling her Little Thief, and his name being Drago, reminded me of Thea Harrison's book Dragon Bound , which is a much better book, and I highly recommend it. (Sure, his name is Dragos but it's damn close, plus she steals from him and there's actual danger, tension, and buildup)
March 28, 2018
Choose your treasure carefully, thief…
Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons, is the last of the magnificent dragons of the Seven Kingdoms. Bitter and alone, he abandons the emptiness of his realm and retreats to the caverns beneath the palace. In the form of his dragon, he remains hidden from the world, protecting the Dragon’s Heart, the last legacy of his people – until he is disturbed by a most unlikely thief.
Carly Tate’s trip to Yachats State Park takes an unexpected turn when she is caught in a sudden storm. Seeking shelter, she stumbles through a magical doorway into a cavern filled with treasure! Yet, as incredible as the piles of glittering gold and jewels are, her gaze is transfixed by the slumbering form of a magnificent dragon.
Carly’s appearance begins a series of events that will not only change Drago’s life, but will affect all of the Seven Kingdoms. Can a centuries old dragon protect his most valuable treasure, or will the evil that destroyed his race take Carly from him as well?
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I absolutely loved this book. I laughed till I cried and also cried with sadness. I have come to accept this with S E Smith's books. I have everything she has wrote, some are misses but the vast majority are major hits, She makes her characters really believable so you empathize with the comedy (I'll never look at a broom without laughing again) the highs and the lows, I wait patiently for any and all books regarding this author
Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons, is the last of the magnificent dragons of the Seven Kingdoms. Bitter and alone, he abandons the emptiness of his realm and retreats to the caverns beneath the palace. In the form of his dragon, he remains hidden from the world, protecting the Dragon’s Heart, the last legacy of his people – until he is disturbed by a most unlikely thief.
Carly Tate’s trip to Yachats State Park takes an unexpected turn when she is caught in a sudden storm. Seeking shelter, she stumbles through a magical doorway into a cavern filled with treasure! Yet, as incredible as the piles of glittering gold and jewels are, her gaze is transfixed by the slumbering form of a magnificent dragon.
Carly’s appearance begins a series of events that will not only change Drago’s life, but will affect all of the Seven Kingdoms. Can a centuries old dragon protect his most valuable treasure, or will the evil that destroyed his race take Carly from him as well?
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I absolutely loved this book. I laughed till I cried and also cried with sadness. I have come to accept this with S E Smith's books. I have everything she has wrote, some are misses but the vast majority are major hits, She makes her characters really believable so you empathize with the comedy (I'll never look at a broom without laughing again) the highs and the lows, I wait patiently for any and all books regarding this author
May 11, 2018
I can not say enough how much this author has impressed me. I read her earlier books and was very put off by them. But somewhere along the line Ms. Smith has undergone a complete about face and the stories that she is now writing are fast becoming my absolute favorites.
She does not shy away from age, her characters range from all age boxes, and I love that. She writes her h's as real women, not perfect, not innocent or over sweet, not stunningly beautiful, but real boisterous strong sometimes a little goofy, often clumsy but warts and all women.
I am blown away by the range of her imagination to create so many different worlds and fill it with such a diverse people and creatures that it makes them come to life in the readers imagination.
But most of all I am enamored with her H's, they are above and beyond everything, respectful and considerate. And that is the sexiest thing of all. They treat their lady loves like partners, though it drives the protective alpha male nuts to watch their women ride into danger/battle they respect them enough to know that a woman's place is not above, below or behind but by their sides, partners.
She does not shy away from age, her characters range from all age boxes, and I love that. She writes her h's as real women, not perfect, not innocent or over sweet, not stunningly beautiful, but real boisterous strong sometimes a little goofy, often clumsy but warts and all women.
I am blown away by the range of her imagination to create so many different worlds and fill it with such a diverse people and creatures that it makes them come to life in the readers imagination.
But most of all I am enamored with her H's, they are above and beyond everything, respectful and considerate. And that is the sexiest thing of all. They treat their lady loves like partners, though it drives the protective alpha male nuts to watch their women ride into danger/battle they respect them enough to know that a woman's place is not above, below or behind but by their sides, partners.
July 24, 2019
Drago is the king of the Isle of Dragons or at least he was, now he is the only dragon left. Ten years ago he decided he would sleep and for ten years, he rested. Carly is a clumsy girl from a small town with a love for dragons. One day while she is hiking she gets caught in a storm and seeks shelter. Little did she know the cave she entered was a doorway to another realm.
I have to admit that I was very disappointed in this novel. Not only did it set up a very interesting action-packed adventure in the prologue but it didn't follow through with it at all. Drago seemed so set on avenging his people and finding a way to free them from this curse but now that he has a girlfriend, helping his thousands of fellow dragons isn't important? Additionally, Carly sort of becomes a stock character towards the end, losing the quirky personality Smith seemingly wants her to have.
This is not a book I would recommend as it lets the reader down. In fact, the entire story of Drago's loneliness and Carly's past relationships have no real part to play in the book. So why give us all that if they are unimportant?
I have to admit that I was very disappointed in this novel. Not only did it set up a very interesting action-packed adventure in the prologue but it didn't follow through with it at all. Drago seemed so set on avenging his people and finding a way to free them from this curse but now that he has a girlfriend, helping his thousands of fellow dragons isn't important? Additionally, Carly sort of becomes a stock character towards the end, losing the quirky personality Smith seemingly wants her to have.
This is not a book I would recommend as it lets the reader down. In fact, the entire story of Drago's loneliness and Carly's past relationships have no real part to play in the book. So why give us all that if they are unimportant?
March 21, 2018
I personally did not care for this book what so ever. I kept reading hoping that would improve it is incredibly slow… In my opinion the lead female character is extremely annoying and rather childish. Some of it just doesn't make any sense girl falls through mystical crack girl says nice Dragon need to get home. Anyway now Dragon leaves girl flies off rambling comes back girl mysteriously finds her way around this place she hasn't been to before and becomes house maid… This is the land of mystical and magical but yet they have updated plumbing and no one's lived in the town for 10 years but he can mysteriously find toothbrushes yet, he can't find food without going to another kingdom… Somebody else might enjoy the story but for me it was a complete struggle to hang till the end thank God for audibles customer guarantee because this is one I will be returning and I'm not messing with the other two. Basically for me there are quite a few things really annoying about this book.
August 1, 2021
A fun read!
Carley Tate decides she's going to get in shape and shed a few pounds. Instead of joining a gym she's going to hike the beautiful state park. One annual pass beats the price of a gym membership. Carly's seriously rethinking her choice as she finds out there are no convent bathrooms, but there are tons of bugs, slippery slopes, and sudden soaking storms. The last of which sends her darting into a cave where she discovers an amazing cavern filled with gold, jewels, and one beautiful dragon.
*"Choose your treasure carefully, thief." warns the dragon.
Carley's choice starts a chain of events that will effect all the seven kingdoms with the Isle of the Dragon as the main focus.
Great characters, awesome world building, with lots of adventure balanced with humor. I loved this book and can't wait to read/listen to the rest of the series.
I listened to this book on Audible. The narrartor did an outstanding job.
Carley Tate decides she's going to get in shape and shed a few pounds. Instead of joining a gym she's going to hike the beautiful state park. One annual pass beats the price of a gym membership. Carly's seriously rethinking her choice as she finds out there are no convent bathrooms, but there are tons of bugs, slippery slopes, and sudden soaking storms. The last of which sends her darting into a cave where she discovers an amazing cavern filled with gold, jewels, and one beautiful dragon.
*"Choose your treasure carefully, thief." warns the dragon.
Carley's choice starts a chain of events that will effect all the seven kingdoms with the Isle of the Dragon as the main focus.
Great characters, awesome world building, with lots of adventure balanced with humor. I loved this book and can't wait to read/listen to the rest of the series.
I listened to this book on Audible. The narrartor did an outstanding job.
October 2, 2017
This was another very, very good book by S.E. Smith. She always writes exciting books. I have so many of her books I would have to go back and count them all. This is about Drago, King of the Isle of Dragons and the last of the magnificent dragons of the seven kingdoms. He is bitter and alone and retreats down to his treasure room and puts himself to sleep. In walks Carly, who has no idea of how she even got there and thinks its all a dream. At times she seems kind of flighty but has a hard time to believe in dragons, etc. Great start to a new series and can see nothing but many good tales to come out about the 7 kingdoms. There is an evil witch to deal with, which makes it a great story. Lots of passion between Carly and Draco. I look forward to more of this series for sure! Highly recommend.
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