What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dragon of 23rd Street #1
Dragon Chained
No one can hide forever.
I’ve followed the rules for nineteen years.
Stay hidden. Stay secret. Stay safe. Pretend you’re human, and whatever you do, don’t let anyone find out about the dragon.
Sure, it’s lonely sometimes, but I have my books, my tea, and an aunt who adores me, at least until she disappears without a word.
As it turns out, my aunt has enemies, and now that she’s missing, they’re after my blood—literally. I’m going to have to learn fast if I intend to survive the supernatural world without her, let alone find out why she never came home.
Clearly, I need help, but the only person I know who might stand a chance against the monsters hunting me is a gorgeous but irritating half-fae assassin—who may have been the one to betray me to my enemies in the first place.
To save my aunt, I’m going to have to learn how to fight. But what can a failed dragon shifter do against monsters made of shadow and nightmare?
And how do I choose who to trust when it seems that everyone’s been keeping secrets?
The Dragon of 23rd Street is a YA Urban Fantasy trilogy that’s perfect for fans of Linsey Hall, Bella Forrest, and Annette Marie. Grab a copy today if you love snarky dragons, dangerous fae, sweet, slow-burn romance, and non-stop twists!
I’ve followed the rules for nineteen years.
Stay hidden. Stay secret. Stay safe. Pretend you’re human, and whatever you do, don’t let anyone find out about the dragon.
Sure, it’s lonely sometimes, but I have my books, my tea, and an aunt who adores me, at least until she disappears without a word.
As it turns out, my aunt has enemies, and now that she’s missing, they’re after my blood—literally. I’m going to have to learn fast if I intend to survive the supernatural world without her, let alone find out why she never came home.
Clearly, I need help, but the only person I know who might stand a chance against the monsters hunting me is a gorgeous but irritating half-fae assassin—who may have been the one to betray me to my enemies in the first place.
To save my aunt, I’m going to have to learn how to fight. But what can a failed dragon shifter do against monsters made of shadow and nightmare?
And how do I choose who to trust when it seems that everyone’s been keeping secrets?
The Dragon of 23rd Street is a YA Urban Fantasy trilogy that’s perfect for fans of Linsey Hall, Bella Forrest, and Annette Marie. Grab a copy today if you love snarky dragons, dangerous fae, sweet, slow-burn romance, and non-stop twists!
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2020
307 people are currently reading
353 people want to read
About the author
Haley Ryan
4 books51 followersHaley Ryan is the pen name of an author who can’t seem to stop saying “just one more.” One more cookie, one more cup of coffee, one more chapter, one more book, one more genre…
So far she’s explored fairy tales, science fiction, romantic fantasy, contemporary romance, and now urban fantasy, all with a few things in common—compelling characters, intriguing plots, fun banter, and clean romance.
Haley is a fan of coffee, scones, barbecue, cats, and sometimes jiujitsu, where her primary goal is to someday figure out how to trip her opponent before she trips herself.
(Haley’s other books can be found under the pen names Kenley Davidson and Kacey Linden.)
So far she’s explored fairy tales, science fiction, romantic fantasy, contemporary romance, and now urban fantasy, all with a few things in common—compelling characters, intriguing plots, fun banter, and clean romance.
Haley is a fan of coffee, scones, barbecue, cats, and sometimes jiujitsu, where her primary goal is to someday figure out how to trip her opponent before she trips herself.
(Haley’s other books can be found under the pen names Kenley Davidson and Kacey Linden.)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
January 13, 2021
Oooh, okay, so this was a really fun book!
I really enjoyed the premise and the flow of the story, it was fast-paced without feeling rushed. There was a really nice balance of worldbuilding and plot building, as well as having everthing told from out Heroine's point of view and still letting us know things she doesn't know (or at least letting the reader's theorise probabilities she denies.) I liked how ther heroine was so ignorant and yet so honest with herself about her knowledge (and feelings - that was hilarious to watch). If there's anything I felt was off, it was the amount of characters we were introduced to, except they really are pretty memorable. There was also the issue that some things felt a bit unclear to me that didn't have to do with it being the 1st book of questions, but that might be just me. The hero was also pretty fun and different from the typical brooding, emo killer dude. Both characters just seemed to fit tropes whilst simultaneously erasing any (or most) of the second-hand embarassment felt from them.
There's still a lot of unanswered questions, but I thiiiink I can predict what they are. This is really just a *fun* light read and I can't wait to delve into the next few books. :)
Content: There is mild language, an allusion to a maybe illegitimate child, some fight scenes, and some possible betrayal going on. Oh, also, the heroine is brutally honest with herself (even brutally honest about her desire to deny, which I appreciated) and that includes finding certain males attractive. XD
I really enjoyed the premise and the flow of the story, it was fast-paced without feeling rushed. There was a really nice balance of worldbuilding and plot building, as well as having everthing told from out Heroine's point of view and still letting us know things she doesn't know (or at least letting the reader's theorise probabilities she denies.) I liked how ther heroine was so ignorant and yet so honest with herself about her knowledge (and feelings - that was hilarious to watch). If there's anything I felt was off, it was the amount of characters we were introduced to, except they really are pretty memorable. There was also the issue that some things felt a bit unclear to me that didn't have to do with it being the 1st book of questions, but that might be just me. The hero was also pretty fun and different from the typical brooding, emo killer dude. Both characters just seemed to fit tropes whilst simultaneously erasing any (or most) of the second-hand embarassment felt from them.
There's still a lot of unanswered questions, but I thiiiink I can predict what they are. This is really just a *fun* light read and I can't wait to delve into the next few books. :)
Content: There is mild language, an allusion to a maybe illegitimate child, some fight scenes, and some possible betrayal going on. Oh, also, the heroine is brutally honest with herself (even brutally honest about her desire to deny, which I appreciated) and that includes finding certain males attractive. XD
February 11, 2021
Fun!
It is really hard to find a good, clean adult Urban Fantasy. While this one feels more like NA, it ended up being a pretty fun read and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Kira is a likable lead, she has been raised by her aunt in hiding. All she knows is what little her aunt has shared with her over the years. She is part dragon and has to live as a human to stay safe. Because her aunt was so secretive she is not at all prepared when her aunt goes missing and fae start poking around her small town. She decides to take charge of her life and set out to find/rescue her aunt.
Kira has to figure out who to trust, who is out to get her and has no idea where to start looking for her aunt. Enter dreamy Drevan. Dark and fearsome with a strong protectiveness of Kira. She slowly starts to trust him and it was fun watching them interact.
Overall, this was a fun setup to the series. I liked that the story ties up at the end, but still has some unanswered questions that will leave you wanting to find out what happens next. The characters were fun, a nice setting and the author did a good job working in fae lore. I haven't read too many books with dragons so that was a nice touch as well. Would recommend to any Urban Fantasy fan.
Content PG
Romane: Mild flirting, no kissing (Booooo!) Slow-burn
Language: Very mild
Violence: Mild, fighting and attacks but nothing gory
The Dragon of 23rd Street Series
It is really hard to find a good, clean adult Urban Fantasy. While this one feels more like NA, it ended up being a pretty fun read and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Kira is a likable lead, she has been raised by her aunt in hiding. All she knows is what little her aunt has shared with her over the years. She is part dragon and has to live as a human to stay safe. Because her aunt was so secretive she is not at all prepared when her aunt goes missing and fae start poking around her small town. She decides to take charge of her life and set out to find/rescue her aunt.
Kira has to figure out who to trust, who is out to get her and has no idea where to start looking for her aunt. Enter dreamy Drevan. Dark and fearsome with a strong protectiveness of Kira. She slowly starts to trust him and it was fun watching them interact.
Overall, this was a fun setup to the series. I liked that the story ties up at the end, but still has some unanswered questions that will leave you wanting to find out what happens next. The characters were fun, a nice setting and the author did a good job working in fae lore. I haven't read too many books with dragons so that was a nice touch as well. Would recommend to any Urban Fantasy fan.
Content PG
Romane: Mild flirting, no kissing (Booooo!) Slow-burn
Language: Very mild
Violence: Mild, fighting and attacks but nothing gory
The Dragon of 23rd Street Series
November 12, 2021
I really really liked the beginning. She’s a dragon who lives over a bookstore. The bookstore is her dragon’s hoard! A fae comes in to question her and she is snarky and smart and “knows how to annoy someone”. And then it goes south...
Did not finish at 42%. I’m so annoyed. I like a strong smart heroine and the book starts off that way. The heroine is snarky and smart. And then devolves into a whining, crying know nothing who tells someone “I’m a defective dragon. My aunt must have known I would be because she gave me this special bracelet that would protect me right around the age most dragons start changing”. Uh. Can you be more obvious!? And dumb!?
You have trouble shifting. Your aunt put a bracelet on you when you were of an age that normal dragons start shifting. And you don’t understand that the bracelet somehow is blocking you!!!???
Also, the constant drooling over a guy you just met!? Ugh.
But... I described my annoyance to two friends and they felt like this book would be right up their alley. I like the idea. But this isn’t my book.
Did not finish at 42%. I’m so annoyed. I like a strong smart heroine and the book starts off that way. The heroine is snarky and smart. And then devolves into a whining, crying know nothing who tells someone “I’m a defective dragon. My aunt must have known I would be because she gave me this special bracelet that would protect me right around the age most dragons start changing”. Uh. Can you be more obvious!? And dumb!?
You have trouble shifting. Your aunt put a bracelet on you when you were of an age that normal dragons start shifting. And you don’t understand that the bracelet somehow is blocking you!!!???
Also, the constant drooling over a guy you just met!? Ugh.
But... I described my annoyance to two friends and they felt like this book would be right up their alley. I like the idea. But this isn’t my book.
December 11, 2022
****Actual Rating 4.5****
This was such fun! I’m really getting into the paranormal/urban fantasy genre if only for the snarky, sarcastic banter. 😂 I kid, I kid, but it’s a good motivator to keep trying them and this book has snark and banter in spades.
Kira was such a refreshing protagonist in that when her world is flipped upside down she’s not happy about it and is reasonably scared and wants her normal, sheltered life to return, and I found that so relatable as I probably would not be any happier with her situation than she is! She also realizes she needs help and is okay with a guy protecting her, and I just love how honest she is about all this stuff that a lot of stories just brush aside to make the main girl “tough” and “strong,” and I really appreciated this more honest take on things. And Kira’s growth is just amazing and I can’t wait to see where she goes next.
Draven is also a flipped on his head male hero in the fact that he’s mysterious and brooding without being annoying! (Shocker, I know!) He actually had depth and emotion outside his broodiness that showed and really endeared me to him and the struggles he goes through and faces. I liked (or disliked, lol) the other characters too, but Kira and Draven definitely stand out from the rest of the three demential, quirky cast.
The book does have a bit of a slow start for like the first two or three chapters, but I liked it enough to push on and am glad I did because what. A. Ride! I’m very much looking forward to continuing this series as I really want to know what the heck is going on???? The fantasy, supernatural elements were woven really well into the modern setting and are very believable.
All in all I loved this and will be for sure continuing the series!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown)
Language: crap; gosh; badass; heck; damn; pissed; hell (as a swear word and a place); mongrel; arse; bastard; what the heck; darn
Violence: shadow beasts attack characters; injuries and blood (not detailed); light explodes/kills a shadow creature; a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown); a magical bar fight; fighting with magic and weapons (not detailed); a building collapses with people inside
Sexual: a girl notices a guy’s bare chest; guys and girls are called hot
Drug/Alcohol: magical drinks are served at a club
Other: shapeshifters, fae, and other magical creatures; magic; a club for magical creatures; a character is illegitimate and looked down upon/hated for it; a dragon was abused and chained up in the dark; a character is locked up; a character is an assassin
This was such fun! I’m really getting into the paranormal/urban fantasy genre if only for the snarky, sarcastic banter. 😂 I kid, I kid, but it’s a good motivator to keep trying them and this book has snark and banter in spades.
Kira was such a refreshing protagonist in that when her world is flipped upside down she’s not happy about it and is reasonably scared and wants her normal, sheltered life to return, and I found that so relatable as I probably would not be any happier with her situation than she is! She also realizes she needs help and is okay with a guy protecting her, and I just love how honest she is about all this stuff that a lot of stories just brush aside to make the main girl “tough” and “strong,” and I really appreciated this more honest take on things. And Kira’s growth is just amazing and I can’t wait to see where she goes next.
Draven is also a flipped on his head male hero in the fact that he’s mysterious and brooding without being annoying! (Shocker, I know!) He actually had depth and emotion outside his broodiness that showed and really endeared me to him and the struggles he goes through and faces. I liked (or disliked, lol) the other characters too, but Kira and Draven definitely stand out from the rest of the three demential, quirky cast.
The book does have a bit of a slow start for like the first two or three chapters, but I liked it enough to push on and am glad I did because what. A. Ride! I’m very much looking forward to continuing this series as I really want to know what the heck is going on???? The fantasy, supernatural elements were woven really well into the modern setting and are very believable.
All in all I loved this and will be for sure continuing the series!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown)
Language: crap; gosh; badass; heck; damn; pissed; hell (as a swear word and a place); mongrel; arse; bastard; what the heck; darn
Violence: shadow beasts attack characters; injuries and blood (not detailed); light explodes/kills a shadow creature; a man stabs himself in the heart (not detailed but shown); a magical bar fight; fighting with magic and weapons (not detailed); a building collapses with people inside
Sexual: a girl notices a guy’s bare chest; guys and girls are called hot
Drug/Alcohol: magical drinks are served at a club
Other: shapeshifters, fae, and other magical creatures; magic; a club for magical creatures; a character is illegitimate and looked down upon/hated for it; a dragon was abused and chained up in the dark; a character is locked up; a character is an assassin
August 10, 2021
3.5 stars // read August 2021
A pretty decent urban fantasy. I did guess a few plot twists, mainly regarding the bracelet. I enjoyed some of the characters more than what I expected, and a few parts made me laugh (especially the story about how Chicken got his name.) While I was reading this, I couldn't help but compare Dragon Chained to other UF books I've read, even though they're very dissimilar, and I think I would've enjoyed this more if I'd just focused on this book itself. If that makes any sense?
Content: smattering of language; Kira keeps swooning over hot fae guys, which wasn't my favorite thing to read, tbh; some violence; it's mentioned that shapeshifters don't shift back with clothes.
A pretty decent urban fantasy. I did guess a few plot twists, mainly regarding the bracelet. I enjoyed some of the characters more than what I expected, and a few parts made me laugh (especially the story about how Chicken got his name.) While I was reading this, I couldn't help but compare Dragon Chained to other UF books I've read, even though they're very dissimilar, and I think I would've enjoyed this more if I'd just focused on this book itself. If that makes any sense?
Content: smattering of language; Kira keeps swooning over hot fae guys, which wasn't my favorite thing to read, tbh; some violence; it's mentioned that shapeshifters don't shift back with clothes.
January 13, 2021
Pretty good
I had a few minor irritations, but it doesn't take it self too seriously so I can't even be mad. It's pretty darn funny too, so there is that as well. 😏 All in all a pretty fun read!
I had a few minor irritations, but it doesn't take it self too seriously so I can't even be mad. It's pretty darn funny too, so there is that as well. 😏 All in all a pretty fun read!
May 6, 2022
All aboard the struggle bus!
Y'all. I'm not going to lie, this was tough to get through. It was slow going for me and I really didn't start getting invested in the book until about 80ish%. I almost gave up but just kept pushing forward.
I really, really wish we could have gotten Draven's POV right along with Kira's. I probably would've enjoyed the book more. I also wish that we could've had some kissing in this book. Y'all. The slow-burn romance is so hard for me! 😳😂
I'll probably continue on with the series but I'm not sure if it will be right away. I need me some romance dang it! 😂
Y'all. I'm not going to lie, this was tough to get through. It was slow going for me and I really didn't start getting invested in the book until about 80ish%. I almost gave up but just kept pushing forward.
I really, really wish we could have gotten Draven's POV right along with Kira's. I probably would've enjoyed the book more. I also wish that we could've had some kissing in this book. Y'all. The slow-burn romance is so hard for me! 😳😂
I'll probably continue on with the series but I'm not sure if it will be right away. I need me some romance dang it! 😂
January 26, 2021
(4.5 stars) - a happy discovery!
19-year old Kira has been sheltered by her aunt all her life as her life was in danger from birth, but now her aunt has been missing for 3 weeks, & Kira has to find her.
Draven is also looking for Kira's aunt, and they end up making a deal to search together. Which is good because, even though Kira is pretty smart & fairly scrappy, she's a dragon shifter who can't shift - & in way over her head.
Despite Kira's naivete, I really enjoyed her character. She's not dumb or ditzy; she's just green, but she's learning pretty fast (except perhaps where she's emotionally invested), and she has a good heart with a dash of snark & a bigger dash of ironic humor.
Draven's snark has a little more bite to it, & he's not the nicest guy at first, but he turns out to be more than a swoony bod who's super handy in a fight. And as we learn more about him, the reason for his attitude becomes more obvious.
The story becomes increasingly suspenseful and then full on exciting by the end. The relationship that develops between the two is believable - there's chemistry, but there's a friendship as well. This first book is a tad short at just 13 chapters, and there are still multiple mysteries to solve, but it has a for-now conclusion that makes a decent stopping spot - even though I didn't want it to stop at all! So happy to have found this series (and so glad I don't have to wait for the rest of the books to come out, lol)!
*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
19-year old Kira has been sheltered by her aunt all her life as her life was in danger from birth, but now her aunt has been missing for 3 weeks, & Kira has to find her.
Draven is also looking for Kira's aunt, and they end up making a deal to search together. Which is good because, even though Kira is pretty smart & fairly scrappy, she's a dragon shifter who can't shift - & in way over her head.
Despite Kira's naivete, I really enjoyed her character. She's not dumb or ditzy; she's just green, but she's learning pretty fast (except perhaps where she's emotionally invested), and she has a good heart with a dash of snark & a bigger dash of ironic humor.
Draven's snark has a little more bite to it, & he's not the nicest guy at first, but he turns out to be more than a swoony bod who's super handy in a fight. And as we learn more about him, the reason for his attitude becomes more obvious.
The story becomes increasingly suspenseful and then full on exciting by the end. The relationship that develops between the two is believable - there's chemistry, but there's a friendship as well. This first book is a tad short at just 13 chapters, and there are still multiple mysteries to solve, but it has a for-now conclusion that makes a decent stopping spot - even though I didn't want it to stop at all! So happy to have found this series (and so glad I don't have to wait for the rest of the books to come out, lol)!
*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
October 30, 2021
This was adorable. Don't get me wrong, the action was good and the male MC swoon worthy. But the female MC was sincerely adorable. Not in the pink frills and pig tails way. She was just so pure and naive. Accepting everything she'd been told, trusting way too quickly, and never losing faith in anyone. This could have resulted in a sickly sweet character or one without depth. But it didn't. Because she also was very determined to find answers and to be optimistic. Her inner dialogue was a scream at times and I had several moments of laughing out right. This was a highly enjoyable read.
May 21, 2023
What a nice suprise to find the pretty cover has a matching inside! It's hard to pull off a booklover-main-character... yet I liked Kira. It's hard to introduce an inexperienced girl into a fantasy world without either losing the world-building or the main character - yet here we keep both. It's hard to pull off tall, dark and handsome (and brooding) of course and still have me respect the slack-jawed Kira - yes, she did pull that off too.
Honestly, it's such a breath of fresh air to get away and find a heroine who 1) entered her adventure willingly not because but despite being afraid 2) overcame her initial limitations without magically becoming a badass 3) keeping plenty of emotional reactions and scenes that make her super relatable and admirable, embodying the "bravery is not the absence of fear but acting despite it" and do it with... intelligence? Being honest about it, about what she can do, doing her best to find new limits when things go wrong?
It is not perfect yet I respected and liked both Kira and the winged love interest - as well as the start of their romance (this, ladies and lady characters of all ages, THIS is what you do when faced with a naked male chest - you look, you drool and somehow, you still keep your brain and dignity, watch, learn and weep) and I am actually looking forward to more!
The age range is definitely more mature than 19 - Kira was sheltered and she is self-proclaimed homebody but she acts smart enough it doesn't matter and I can be sensitive about these things.
All in all, definitely recommend.
Honestly, it's such a breath of fresh air to get away and find a heroine who 1) entered her adventure willingly not because but despite being afraid 2) overcame her initial limitations without magically becoming a badass 3) keeping plenty of emotional reactions and scenes that make her super relatable and admirable, embodying the "bravery is not the absence of fear but acting despite it" and do it with... intelligence? Being honest about it, about what she can do, doing her best to find new limits when things go wrong?
It is not perfect yet I respected and liked both Kira and the winged love interest - as well as the start of their romance (this, ladies and lady characters of all ages, THIS is what you do when faced with a naked male chest - you look, you drool and somehow, you still keep your brain and dignity, watch, learn and weep) and I am actually looking forward to more!
The age range is definitely more mature than 19 - Kira was sheltered and she is self-proclaimed homebody but she acts smart enough it doesn't matter and I can be sensitive about these things.
All in all, definitely recommend.
January 29, 2022
I believe that this book could have benefited with better pacing. It was quite slow until the last 3/4.
There were a lot of great quotes scattered throughout.
3 Stars
Content: battle
There were a lot of great quotes scattered throughout.
3 Stars
Content: battle
October 11, 2021
This was fun and intriguing!
I really did enjoy this book and read it all in one sitting (who needs sleep?). Kira is a dragon that was hidden away as an infant for her own protection. She's been hiding the fact that she is a dragon and was raised by the one her saved her life whom she calls Aunt. After her Aunt has disappeared for several weeks, two paranormals come looking for her. Kira's life is about to dramatically change.
Beyond the fact that Kira's life was saved, she has no idea about being a dragon or much about any of the magical races. The story is told from her point of view solely so we learn and know only as much as Kira does. I enjoyed Kira's perspective and the unfolding mystery surrounding who exactly she is. I will definitely keep reading.
I really did enjoy this book and read it all in one sitting (who needs sleep?). Kira is a dragon that was hidden away as an infant for her own protection. She's been hiding the fact that she is a dragon and was raised by the one her saved her life whom she calls Aunt. After her Aunt has disappeared for several weeks, two paranormals come looking for her. Kira's life is about to dramatically change.
Beyond the fact that Kira's life was saved, she has no idea about being a dragon or much about any of the magical races. The story is told from her point of view solely so we learn and know only as much as Kira does. I enjoyed Kira's perspective and the unfolding mystery surrounding who exactly she is. I will definitely keep reading.
August 26, 2021
I'm at 83% and I just can't anymore. One of my biggest pet peeves when reading a book is when the author creates TSTL moments to propel the plot forward. After the first TSTL moment brought to us by the MFC, I tried to breath calmly and tell myself that she just needed time for growth, however after many more moments like this ... I just can't do it anymore. I'm out!
** Ok. .. because I can't just dnf a book, I skimmed the last 20% and I'll let my review and rating stand.
** Ok. .. because I can't just dnf a book, I skimmed the last 20% and I'll let my review and rating stand.
May 8, 2023
I liked the first book in this series, but I kind of hated this one. I really enjoyed the story line through the first book and into the second, but kept getting tripped up over the main character and her love interest. I found her inner monologue to be quite obnoxious. The romance seemed a tad forced, at least for the male lead.
The male lead is fantastic and seems strong and honorable, but honestly I really thought we were leading up to someone a bit more compatible with our lead gal. I think I was just disappointed because I assumed the little details dropped in the first book meant we were leading up to a spectacular reveal about the lead male. And then....it didn't materialize. And in fact was squashed. I really wish I could have been an early draft reader for this one. I think this book went south fast because of this hiccup in the story line and also the lead gal's struggles with her independent streak. I don't think someone raised as she was would be quite so obnoxious about family and duties. If she had been this independent and headstrong in the first book, I don't think there would have been any containing her, even with a bracelet of power. My suspension of disbelief only goes so high.
I won't go into too much detail about the male lead, Truly, I don't know what happened here. I can't say that I'm looking forward to the re-release of the third book.
The male lead is fantastic and seems strong and honorable, but honestly I really thought we were leading up to someone a bit more compatible with our lead gal. I think I was just disappointed because I assumed the little details dropped in the first book meant we were leading up to a spectacular reveal about the lead male. And then....it didn't materialize. And in fact was squashed. I really wish I could have been an early draft reader for this one. I think this book went south fast because of this hiccup in the story line and also the lead gal's struggles with her independent streak. I don't think someone raised as she was would be quite so obnoxious about family and duties. If she had been this independent and headstrong in the first book, I don't think there would have been any containing her, even with a bracelet of power. My suspension of disbelief only goes so high.
I won't go into too much detail about the male lead, Truly, I don't know what happened here. I can't say that I'm looking forward to the re-release of the third book.
January 24, 2023
Dragon Chained
Reader’s Notes:
– this is book 1 of 3
– this is told from Kira’s point of view
– there are multiple instances of Kira seeing a guy’s chest (as he can’t wear a top & shift properly)
– there is some fantasy violence
Review:
I’m apparently on a bit of an urban fantasy kick since I discovered that not one, but three of the authors I enjoy reading fantasy books from have their own urban fantasy series! (That’s K. M. Shea’s Magiford trilogies, Shari L. Tapscott’s Obsidian Queen, & this one -which is another pen name of Kenley Davidson- for those of you looking for recommendations!)
I enjoyed the fact that Kira really didn’t know too much about the world she came from as it made it feel like I was on the same page as her throughout the story. I loved Kira’s stubbornness and how Haley Ryan decided to portray her dragon shifter. I loved the pets Kira ends up with and the names they have. I didn’t see the actual bad guy coming (that was creating the shadows) but I probably should have guessed based on some of the information given about their family. I liked that Kira learned what she could do (powers & shifting-wise) as the story went on and still doesn’t completely know the full scope of them. I’m curious as to what is actually going on with her Aunt Morgan and what their real story is together. I’m excited to continue this trilogy to find out!
Summary:
Kira is a dragon shifter pretending to be a human for her own safety. Her life consists of running a bookstore, her aunt, a cat named Chicken, and hiding what she truly is. Though when her aunt has been gone for longer than usual and fae she’s never seen before come into her bookstore asking questions they shouldn’t be asking her, Kira’s world begins to get turned upside down. And now she has to rely on Draven, a fae assassin, to help her find her aunt and discover parts of herself that she didn’t know were hidden. With secrets emerging from every corner, will Kira choose to stay in the sheltered life she’s always lived or leave the shadows to find the truth?
Reader’s Notes:
– this is book 1 of 3
– this is told from Kira’s point of view
– there are multiple instances of Kira seeing a guy’s chest (as he can’t wear a top & shift properly)
– there is some fantasy violence
Review:
I’m apparently on a bit of an urban fantasy kick since I discovered that not one, but three of the authors I enjoy reading fantasy books from have their own urban fantasy series! (That’s K. M. Shea’s Magiford trilogies, Shari L. Tapscott’s Obsidian Queen, & this one -which is another pen name of Kenley Davidson- for those of you looking for recommendations!)
I enjoyed the fact that Kira really didn’t know too much about the world she came from as it made it feel like I was on the same page as her throughout the story. I loved Kira’s stubbornness and how Haley Ryan decided to portray her dragon shifter. I loved the pets Kira ends up with and the names they have. I didn’t see the actual bad guy coming (that was creating the shadows) but I probably should have guessed based on some of the information given about their family. I liked that Kira learned what she could do (powers & shifting-wise) as the story went on and still doesn’t completely know the full scope of them. I’m curious as to what is actually going on with her Aunt Morgan and what their real story is together. I’m excited to continue this trilogy to find out!
Summary:
Kira is a dragon shifter pretending to be a human for her own safety. Her life consists of running a bookstore, her aunt, a cat named Chicken, and hiding what she truly is. Though when her aunt has been gone for longer than usual and fae she’s never seen before come into her bookstore asking questions they shouldn’t be asking her, Kira’s world begins to get turned upside down. And now she has to rely on Draven, a fae assassin, to help her find her aunt and discover parts of herself that she didn’t know were hidden. With secrets emerging from every corner, will Kira choose to stay in the sheltered life she’s always lived or leave the shadows to find the truth?
May 23, 2023
2.5 stars
Yeah this just wasn't for me. I didn't like the FMC, so I had a tough time getting through this. She's so young and naive and immature (which is the point, I know), but I honestly should've DNFed when she first met the man and he vibe checked her like that. Speaking of the man, how old is he???? Did I miss that?? Bc we keep talking about how young she is (19), but then he started getting all attached to her, and I'm kinda like uhhhh soooo what's the age gap here... bc here's the thing, her arc was supposed to be like a coming of age, coming out of her shell, etc., but I really don't think she changed all that much. She's still 19, and she still very much acts 19, ya know? (Okay honestly I think she acts more like 13 but maybe I'm being harsh. She just whines 24/7 like she has the worst victim complex). She was just a little too cringey for me between the loneliness, complete lack of friends, and insane impulsivity and lack of self-preservation, I spent 90% of this book feeling an overwhelming amount of second-hand embarrassment. I wanted to root for her, I just... didn't. I think I would've liked this a lot in middle school.
The worldbuilding and writing style and all of that was fine. We have an unreliable narrator since she knows literally nothing about herself or the world, so I was kind of confused, but that was the point.
So yeah all of my complaints here are personal preference obviously. Not a bad book. I just didn't like it.
Yeah this just wasn't for me. I didn't like the FMC, so I had a tough time getting through this. She's so young and naive and immature (which is the point, I know), but I honestly should've DNFed when she first met the man and he vibe checked her like that. Speaking of the man, how old is he???? Did I miss that?? Bc we keep talking about how young she is (19), but then he started getting all attached to her, and I'm kinda like uhhhh soooo what's the age gap here... bc here's the thing, her arc was supposed to be like a coming of age, coming out of her shell, etc., but I really don't think she changed all that much. She's still 19, and she still very much acts 19, ya know? (Okay honestly I think she acts more like 13 but maybe I'm being harsh. She just whines 24/7 like she has the worst victim complex). She was just a little too cringey for me between the loneliness, complete lack of friends, and insane impulsivity and lack of self-preservation, I spent 90% of this book feeling an overwhelming amount of second-hand embarrassment. I wanted to root for her, I just... didn't. I think I would've liked this a lot in middle school.
The worldbuilding and writing style and all of that was fine. We have an unreliable narrator since she knows literally nothing about herself or the world, so I was kind of confused, but that was the point.
So yeah all of my complaints here are personal preference obviously. Not a bad book. I just didn't like it.
February 5, 2021
Good
Kira is a dragon. Well, sort of- she just can’t shift into dragon form.
When two Fae come seeking her aunt, Kira realizes something is wrong, her aunt has been gone now for three weeks- and it’s longer than she has ever been gone before!
When one of the Fae rescues her from a dangerous situation, she takes the opportunity to get his help in finding her aunt. It isn’t long before Kira realizes that not everything is as she has been told.
This is the first book in a series, and as such it ends with numerous unanswered questions, but not exactly a cliffhanger.
That being said, it’s a fast paced, action packed urban fantasy, with an interesting take on Fae creatures and other beings.
Kira makes for an entertaining heroine, learning as she goes... and if she seems a little naïve, then her age (19) and the fact she has been very sheltered probably accounts for most of it.
If you enjoy ‘enchanting’ adventures, dragons, and battles with evil, then you’ll enjoy this urban fantasy adventure!
Kira is a dragon. Well, sort of- she just can’t shift into dragon form.
When two Fae come seeking her aunt, Kira realizes something is wrong, her aunt has been gone now for three weeks- and it’s longer than she has ever been gone before!
When one of the Fae rescues her from a dangerous situation, she takes the opportunity to get his help in finding her aunt. It isn’t long before Kira realizes that not everything is as she has been told.
This is the first book in a series, and as such it ends with numerous unanswered questions, but not exactly a cliffhanger.
That being said, it’s a fast paced, action packed urban fantasy, with an interesting take on Fae creatures and other beings.
Kira makes for an entertaining heroine, learning as she goes... and if she seems a little naïve, then her age (19) and the fact she has been very sheltered probably accounts for most of it.
If you enjoy ‘enchanting’ adventures, dragons, and battles with evil, then you’ll enjoy this urban fantasy adventure!
April 18, 2023
Kira is a 19-year-olf dragon shifter. Her aunt Morgan took her from the dragon enclave when she was little to keep her safe. (Shapeshifters, Fae & elementals are originally from Iridria, which was collapsing; they came to the human world and live alongside humans.). When Aunt Morgan goes missing, Kira attempts to find her. She doesn’t know a lot about her past or heritage - Aunt Morgan has sheltered her and she thinks she is a “broken dragon” who can’t fully shift. When she meets the winged Draven, they team up - he wants to find Morgan (known to Iridrians as Morghaine) to fight some shadow monsters and she wants to find her aunt. It’s a reluctant partnership at first, but they come to count on each other. I like that Kira isn’t instantly a hero - she’s scared, she doesn’t have a lot of information that she needs, and she admits her weaknesses. Draven is an interesting and mysterious character. Kira won’t deny an attraction to Draven, but there’s no insta-love. There’s obviously something there, but it’s given a chance to develop. I’ll keep reading the series.
August 17, 2020
A very promising start to the series
First, note that this is clearly a series. The ending isn't a cliffhanger, but the story is in no way done. Other than that, it's pretty good. The story is very interesting, and the writing is decent. I especially like the hint of snark. Kira is very young - not just age but maturity. It's a little annoying how willing she is to trust her aunt, and how in the dark she is for most of the book, but it's not irredeemable, since she does develop and i can tell she's going to grow more in later books. Draven is suuuuper dreamy, even though it feels a little like insta-love to me, since there isn't really time or space for them to talk much or spend time with each other. But the romance still relatively slow-burn, and there's no love triangle anywhere (hurray!). A solid read, and I'm looking forward to reading the next few books.
First, note that this is clearly a series. The ending isn't a cliffhanger, but the story is in no way done. Other than that, it's pretty good. The story is very interesting, and the writing is decent. I especially like the hint of snark. Kira is very young - not just age but maturity. It's a little annoying how willing she is to trust her aunt, and how in the dark she is for most of the book, but it's not irredeemable, since she does develop and i can tell she's going to grow more in later books. Draven is suuuuper dreamy, even though it feels a little like insta-love to me, since there isn't really time or space for them to talk much or spend time with each other. But the romance still relatively slow-burn, and there's no love triangle anywhere (hurray!). A solid read, and I'm looking forward to reading the next few books.
May 15, 2022
I would give this book 3.5 stars for intriguing mysteries, fresh worldbuilding, and unique characters. I struggled at times to find the main character (MC) likable even factoring in the way she was raised and felt it was a bit much that nearly everyone treated her as amazing right away. However, she does show growth and becomes more likable in the following books. Overall this book and the rest in the series are fun reads that take you on a twisting ride through several worlds, introduce you to all types of creatures, and will have you rooting for the MC. Kira has been in hiding all her life believing she's a dragon unable to shift. But when her guardian disappears, her carefully crafted world starts to fall apart. Help comes in the unlikely form of a half-fae assassin with shady motives and a trail that will lead them to unravel a sinister plot.
April 13, 2023
I usually don't read books with fantasy characters in modern day settings, written in first person especially but I was pleasantly surprised by this book! Kira is a very likeable character in the first few chapters which sets you up to care about her in the rest of the story. She is torn between what she has believed all her life and what then unfolds. Draven, a smoldering Michael the archangel type, grows on you based on his actions. Other characters are villainous based on their treachery toward Kira, or the evil fae in the latter chapters. Characters that become her friends aren't that evident at first. There are situations that you will see coming, but also a few twists that you won't. And as all good series, answers to Kira's and your unanswered questions could come up in book two :)
April 2, 2020
It took a few chapters for the main character, Kira, to grow on me. She seemed immature and stubborn. But as I read I realized that was the point of her character. She'd been sheltered, protected, and kept in the dark about her origins and abilities by the aunt who raised her. Kira just fell into a habit of not questioning the aunt until she met some unusual characters who were looking for her aunt (Morgan) while said aunt was away longer than planned. Her stubbornness was irritating at times, but the story was good, with a neat mysters, unusual types of fae, dragons, another realm, and what appears to be leading towards a slow burn romance. I will definitely go on to the next one in the series.
March 31, 2020
I was very excited to receive this book and couldn’t put it down. Dragon Chained takes you to a world of fantasy and makes you question all the characters and what you really know.
Kira is a stubborn, cheeky, bookworm, barbecue loving 19 year old dragon. When people start asking questions about her aunt that has been missing for 3 weeks, she takes it upon herself to find out more. But once she obtains answers, she discovers she doesn’t really know as much as she thought, about her aunt nor herself.
I look forward to the next book in the series. If you like urban fantasy or even any book by Kenley Davidson/Haley Ryan/Kacey Linden, you’ll definitely love this book.
Kira is a stubborn, cheeky, bookworm, barbecue loving 19 year old dragon. When people start asking questions about her aunt that has been missing for 3 weeks, she takes it upon herself to find out more. But once she obtains answers, she discovers she doesn’t really know as much as she thought, about her aunt nor herself.
I look forward to the next book in the series. If you like urban fantasy or even any book by Kenley Davidson/Haley Ryan/Kacey Linden, you’ll definitely love this book.
April 13, 2020
Absolutely freaking amazing
This book is everything! Just the cover and blurb alone had me so intrigued and once I started it really did not disappoint. I absolutely adored Kira and Draven a lot. I honestly loved e erything about this story and could not put down at all. Shes a dragon that has to hide who she is even in the supernatural world. Now that her aunt is missing she will do whatever it takes to find her and get her back. Draven is there to help her along the way and to discover exactly why she has to hide who she is. Just really enjoyed this story and truly can not wait for the next book.
This book is everything! Just the cover and blurb alone had me so intrigued and once I started it really did not disappoint. I absolutely adored Kira and Draven a lot. I honestly loved e erything about this story and could not put down at all. Shes a dragon that has to hide who she is even in the supernatural world. Now that her aunt is missing she will do whatever it takes to find her and get her back. Draven is there to help her along the way and to discover exactly why she has to hide who she is. Just really enjoyed this story and truly can not wait for the next book.
April 30, 2023
Best urban fantasy book I've read in quite a while. The writing was great, fun plot, good pacing. It's a clean story with spots of humour and a touch of romance; more like an ultra-slow burn start to a relationship. Kira is fairly obsessed with Draven, but I found it amusing and not cringe, especially given Kira's solitary upbringing.
While things were wrapped up decently, there's still a lot of places to go and questions left to answer. At the end of the book there's a link to download a chapter from Draven's POV, which is worth reading. Already started the second book, which starts off really cute.
While things were wrapped up decently, there's still a lot of places to go and questions left to answer. At the end of the book there's a link to download a chapter from Draven's POV, which is worth reading. Already started the second book, which starts off really cute.
November 8, 2020
This was an interesting book. I went in expecting little and was actually fascinated with the world bulding. It also felt weirdly like it was straddling two worlds. It was not strictly YA with the Kira being 19 and Draven is a few years older. However it had a very YA feel to it with the way the book was structured and them being treated as kids everywhere (at least true for Kira who was also very sheltered).
Usual gripes exist with everyone taking on a very white form and every magical refugee settling in America. There maybe diversity in magic but not in other forms in this book.
Usual gripes exist with everyone taking on a very white form and every magical refugee settling in America. There maybe diversity in magic but not in other forms in this book.
June 10, 2022
I wasn't sure in the beginning. It started out exciting then it slowed down especially with Kiras constantly in her head and repeating her questions she wants to as her missing aunt. Lots of action, lots going on. Never a dull moment but I wish Drevan and Kira would've became friends alot earlier and quit the "I care about you but I am not sure I can trust you" phase. He obviously cares about her and watches her back but he withdraws too much so Kira has no idea where they stand. Its too confusing. Other than that not bad for a start.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
wow!
What an amazing beginning! This is the first book by this author for me, but it definitely isn’t the last. I will be immediately jumping into book 2! Kira is something special and I just know her story is going to be a wild ride! She is completely blind sided and everything she knows is a lie! Everything she learned as she grew is a lie. Everything must be relearned and she has to grow up in a way she is very unprepared for. But I can’t wait to see what her friends have in store with her. I’m so excited about this series!
What an amazing beginning! This is the first book by this author for me, but it definitely isn’t the last. I will be immediately jumping into book 2! Kira is something special and I just know her story is going to be a wild ride! She is completely blind sided and everything she knows is a lie! Everything she learned as she grew is a lie. Everything must be relearned and she has to grow up in a way she is very unprepared for. But I can’t wait to see what her friends have in store with her. I’m so excited about this series!
January 31, 2021
I feel an amused fondness for this book. It was cute.
I kept wanting to put it down during the first chapter, but then it kept surprising me with it's self awareness of it's trope-y clicheness.
Also, I was surprised it strived so hard for damsel empowerment.
Kinda reminded of that quote from Sally Slater's Paladin
"If this were a fairy tale, I'd be my own Gods damned knight."
I also liked that the MC asked questions any normal 19-year-old would ask. One who knows nothing about the world yet, feels helpless, but forges ahead anyway.
All in all, a fun and pleasantly surprising read.
I kept wanting to put it down during the first chapter, but then it kept surprising me with it's self awareness of it's trope-y clicheness.
Also, I was surprised it strived so hard for damsel empowerment.
Kinda reminded of that quote from Sally Slater's Paladin
"If this were a fairy tale, I'd be my own Gods damned knight."
I also liked that the MC asked questions any normal 19-year-old would ask. One who knows nothing about the world yet, feels helpless, but forges ahead anyway.
All in all, a fun and pleasantly surprising read.
March 16, 2021
A fun and intriguing start to this UF trilogy! It has more of a high-fantasy feel than many UFs I've read recently, and it was interesting to see how the story melded the different settings. Kira was a fun lead, and I'm looking forward to seeing how her story unfolds.
Some shifter shirtlessness and ogling thereof, and the heroine repeatedly notices the physical attractiveness of the supernatural males around her, but apart from that it's pretty clean.
Some shifter shirtlessness and ogling thereof, and the heroine repeatedly notices the physical attractiveness of the supernatural males around her, but apart from that it's pretty clean.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews