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Dragon Queens: A Lesbian Romance Novel
Dragons fly again...
With her betrothal imminent, the beautiful Princess Ava has gone missing. Where has she fled to? Why has she gone? And why is the dragon stirring?
Enter our hero. Gwen has been hunting wanted criminals for years, collecting bounties to provide for her mother and brother since the death of their father. The promise of an armful of gold for bringing the princess home is too good to ignore.
But bringing her home doesn't solve anyone's problems. Gwen still has family to support, and Ava still has a miserable marriage to look forward to. How will they get over these hurdles? And what new ones will they create along the way?
With her betrothal imminent, the beautiful Princess Ava has gone missing. Where has she fled to? Why has she gone? And why is the dragon stirring?
Enter our hero. Gwen has been hunting wanted criminals for years, collecting bounties to provide for her mother and brother since the death of their father. The promise of an armful of gold for bringing the princess home is too good to ignore.
But bringing her home doesn't solve anyone's problems. Gwen still has family to support, and Ava still has a miserable marriage to look forward to. How will they get over these hurdles? And what new ones will they create along the way?
313 pages, Paperback
Published February 14, 2022
321 people are currently reading
2416 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
May 19, 2022
3.75 Stars. A steamy romance mixed with a fun fantasy adventure. Before I go too far, I do want to mention that this book will not be for everyone. I’ll give a trigger warning explaining why, in the next paragraph, so please read that part so you won’t walk into this book not knowing. Anyway, I thought this book was good fun, and while it had a few bumps, it was very solid especially for an indie author’s debut. The main storyline was good and the writing style was comfortable and easy to read. The author mentioned that this might be the only book that she writes, but if she writes another I would read it.
Okay, let me get the trigger warning out of the way first, this book does have a scene of dubcon and another scene that was a bit uncomfortable. I was told about this before I read the book, or even agreed to review it, so I knew to expect it. My choice was to skim the two scenes that I didn’t care for. This might sound a little OT but it’s really not. I have been having headaches lately, which I think is because I might need glasses, the curse of turning 40 soon. Because of one of those headaches, I stopped reading the book and was resting in the dark and accidentally fell asleep. I ended up having a dream that I was watching a training video, with cartoon characters, demonstrating and explaining what sexual assault was. To say that was a f@cked-up dream would be an understatement, but what I think the dream means is that even though I have read way worse dubcon scenes, and actual noncon scenes before, I think the dream is proof that this book’s scenes did bother me at least on some level.
While I am not someone that enjoys dubcon, I know some people do. This is a fauxmance romance that has an obvious power imbalance that some people would find sexy. As much as I appreciate the important LGBTQ+ books that have stories about people coming out, or battling against homophobia… we need to have our smut too. While this book is not erotica, it is steamy and it includes some light dom/sub play and some anal play too. I didn’t care for all the sex scenes, but some of them were definitely hot and I would suggest not reading this book in public. I want there to be choice out there with every type of different LGBTQ+ books imaginable. So while I prefer my sapphic romance not to have dub-con, I’m glad books like this exist so people can have that choice.
Talk about a tangent, sometimes I’m too opinionated for my own good since I haven’t even got to the fantasy part of the book yet. The fantasy part was quite fun. This is what I would call gateway fantasy. The story is very easy to get into with no big convoluted storylines or a million names to remember. This would be a good story for people newer to fantasy or who are not big fantasy fans, yet it was still fun for a fantasy lover like me. Plus the magic word DRAGON says more than I could. I did wish the big climax moment of the ending was more exciting, but still I had good fun with it.
TLDR: If you are looking for a steamy sapphic romance, with a fun fantasy twist, than this could be a good book for you. This book does have a dubcon scene so make sure you take that into consideration before you make your choice. While I personally found myself uncomfortable with two scenes, I ended up having fun and enjoying this read enough that I would read this author again. Plus ya know, Dragons!
A copy was given to me for review.
Okay, let me get the trigger warning out of the way first, this book does have a scene of dubcon and another scene that was a bit uncomfortable. I was told about this before I read the book, or even agreed to review it, so I knew to expect it. My choice was to skim the two scenes that I didn’t care for. This might sound a little OT but it’s really not. I have been having headaches lately, which I think is because I might need glasses, the curse of turning 40 soon. Because of one of those headaches, I stopped reading the book and was resting in the dark and accidentally fell asleep. I ended up having a dream that I was watching a training video, with cartoon characters, demonstrating and explaining what sexual assault was. To say that was a f@cked-up dream would be an understatement, but what I think the dream means is that even though I have read way worse dubcon scenes, and actual noncon scenes before, I think the dream is proof that this book’s scenes did bother me at least on some level.
While I am not someone that enjoys dubcon, I know some people do. This is a fauxmance romance that has an obvious power imbalance that some people would find sexy. As much as I appreciate the important LGBTQ+ books that have stories about people coming out, or battling against homophobia… we need to have our smut too. While this book is not erotica, it is steamy and it includes some light dom/sub play and some anal play too. I didn’t care for all the sex scenes, but some of them were definitely hot and I would suggest not reading this book in public. I want there to be choice out there with every type of different LGBTQ+ books imaginable. So while I prefer my sapphic romance not to have dub-con, I’m glad books like this exist so people can have that choice.
Talk about a tangent, sometimes I’m too opinionated for my own good since I haven’t even got to the fantasy part of the book yet. The fantasy part was quite fun. This is what I would call gateway fantasy. The story is very easy to get into with no big convoluted storylines or a million names to remember. This would be a good story for people newer to fantasy or who are not big fantasy fans, yet it was still fun for a fantasy lover like me. Plus the magic word DRAGON says more than I could. I did wish the big climax moment of the ending was more exciting, but still I had good fun with it.
TLDR: If you are looking for a steamy sapphic romance, with a fun fantasy twist, than this could be a good book for you. This book does have a dubcon scene so make sure you take that into consideration before you make your choice. While I personally found myself uncomfortable with two scenes, I ended up having fun and enjoying this read enough that I would read this author again. Plus ya know, Dragons!
A copy was given to me for review.
May 11, 2022
DNF @ 44%. Kindle Unlimited.
Just far too uncomfortable to read through, made me feel icky - and honestly disgusted by this point.
There's an extremely clumsy and immature 'fake dating' trope that comes about, which is far more just public sexual exhibitionism than anything. With lots of forced contact and nighttime dry-humping.
The princess character is entitled and uses our other MC up, and has no real care factor for her feelings or being used like a whore. When this is FINALLY brought up properly at 44% it gets turned back around to make it sound like she is justified to do this, because of her jealousy and the position she is in... It's just all kinds of wrong and disgusting, honestly.
The entire feeling overall in the relationship is very odd with a horrible power-play dynamic and a lot of manipulation - which sets a horrible tone that I cannot keep reading, nor swallow as healthy in any way.
Just far too uncomfortable to read through, made me feel icky - and honestly disgusted by this point.
There's an extremely clumsy and immature 'fake dating' trope that comes about, which is far more just public sexual exhibitionism than anything. With lots of forced contact and nighttime dry-humping.
The princess character is entitled and uses our other MC up, and has no real care factor for her feelings or being used like a whore. When this is FINALLY brought up properly at 44% it gets turned back around to make it sound like she is justified to do this, because of her jealousy and the position she is in... It's just all kinds of wrong and disgusting, honestly.
The entire feeling overall in the relationship is very odd with a horrible power-play dynamic and a lot of manipulation - which sets a horrible tone that I cannot keep reading, nor swallow as healthy in any way.
February 27, 2022
It's a win/win fauxmance between runaway, and sassy gorgeous princess Ava and her tall, beautiful and loyal rescuer, Gwen. Oh, and a Chosen One prophecy with a mighty dragon to boot. What could be more awesome than that?
This book was so fun to read and it was kinda sweet seeing Gwen and Ava falling for one another without knowing it was actually happening until... well, you gotta read it if you want to know.
This book was so fun to read and it was kinda sweet seeing Gwen and Ava falling for one another without knowing it was actually happening until... well, you gotta read it if you want to know.
June 17, 2022
I coudn‘t get into it and had many issues with the story.
June 20, 2022
long story short: DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A GOOD ROMANCE. This whole book is pretty much a very filthy rape fantasy porno written out.
I know I finished this book a couple of days ago, I needed time to process what I had just read. If I could give it 1/2 a star I would. You see there is a line that you are not allowed to cross when it comes to romances. This book crossed that line numerous times.
It left me feeling filthy and gross.
There is a literal rape scene in this book where the princess forces herself on the MC, hurting her very badly. Later on the princess comes to see her only to guilt trip the MC into somehow believing it was HER FAULT and pretty much orders her to not have any friends, she only needs the princess. Then she proceeds to almost literally throw a jar of cream at her for her poor bruises and tells her to clean herself up.
Another scene where one of the characters gets off on feeling up the other while they were sleeping… just what the fuck?
I’m sorry. This book is one big rape fantasy porno. If you are looking for a good romance DO NOT READ THIS. It will leave you feeling filthy.
I don’t understand why this was rated so high. Kind of shows a few very serious issues with our society.
But hey, If you are actually looking for something to play out your gross filthy cravings have at er, this book is not for everyone.
I know I finished this book a couple of days ago, I needed time to process what I had just read. If I could give it 1/2 a star I would. You see there is a line that you are not allowed to cross when it comes to romances. This book crossed that line numerous times.
It left me feeling filthy and gross.
There is a literal rape scene in this book where the princess forces herself on the MC, hurting her very badly. Later on the princess comes to see her only to guilt trip the MC into somehow believing it was HER FAULT and pretty much orders her to not have any friends, she only needs the princess. Then she proceeds to almost literally throw a jar of cream at her for her poor bruises and tells her to clean herself up.
Another scene where one of the characters gets off on feeling up the other while they were sleeping… just what the fuck?
I’m sorry. This book is one big rape fantasy porno. If you are looking for a good romance DO NOT READ THIS. It will leave you feeling filthy.
I don’t understand why this was rated so high. Kind of shows a few very serious issues with our society.
But hey, If you are actually looking for something to play out your gross filthy cravings have at er, this book is not for everyone.
July 24, 2022
It was a great joy to read Kathleen de Plume's first book. The time spent reading this book was wonderful. Ava, the princess, and Gwen, the knight, were two endearing characters that the author invented. There is also, unavoidably, the Dragon, whose allure lends the narrative a touch of magic.
Of course, before reaching out for this position, I’d read some reviews here. Most of the readers would agree that the best recommendation for the book is numerous contradictory opinions. After all, opposites attract. Some recipients are offended, while others are ecstatic. I believe I've discovered the answer as to why it is that way.
Firstly, Dragon Queens is hard to define by genre. Definitely, it’s a fantasy novel with most of the elements of such. It’s also a romance story about a faux relation between a princess and a knight. As a result, the narration throughout the novel during one of the MCs' seduction of another MC is very highly erotic. The pictures the reader gets from this part linger under the eyelids for a very long time. But it only lasts for the first half of the book. The knight enters a brand-new world for her in the second part, which is filled with adventure. The plot becomes even more intriguing as a result of the intrigues that are sparked by Gwen's new obstacles. Secondly, the language Kathleen de Plume uses to depict the world of Ava and Gwen’s is surprisingly refreshing. I got used to some framed phrases and collocations to depict bedtime gymnastics. Here, we frequently receive new content that is also humorous.
It's a really fortunate debut, to sum it up. All appealing components are there in the book. I'm not sure if it would be more captivating if it had a genuinely distinct genre. Some literary critics think it might. But overall, it’s mainly entertaining read and I’m all for it. Also, I’ll ask for more.
Of course, before reaching out for this position, I’d read some reviews here. Most of the readers would agree that the best recommendation for the book is numerous contradictory opinions. After all, opposites attract. Some recipients are offended, while others are ecstatic. I believe I've discovered the answer as to why it is that way.
Firstly, Dragon Queens is hard to define by genre. Definitely, it’s a fantasy novel with most of the elements of such. It’s also a romance story about a faux relation between a princess and a knight. As a result, the narration throughout the novel during one of the MCs' seduction of another MC is very highly erotic. The pictures the reader gets from this part linger under the eyelids for a very long time. But it only lasts for the first half of the book. The knight enters a brand-new world for her in the second part, which is filled with adventure. The plot becomes even more intriguing as a result of the intrigues that are sparked by Gwen's new obstacles. Secondly, the language Kathleen de Plume uses to depict the world of Ava and Gwen’s is surprisingly refreshing. I got used to some framed phrases and collocations to depict bedtime gymnastics. Here, we frequently receive new content that is also humorous.
It's a really fortunate debut, to sum it up. All appealing components are there in the book. I'm not sure if it would be more captivating if it had a genuinely distinct genre. Some literary critics think it might. But overall, it’s mainly entertaining read and I’m all for it. Also, I’ll ask for more.
March 9, 2022
I was enjoying this read with all the steam and the fauxmance, which, I didn't have a problem with at first. I'm pretty easy to please as long as there's hot scenes and a good plot. I don't even mind sex for the sake of sex even if it doesn't contribute as long as it's well written, I'm good. That being said, I had a really hard time after one particular scene that changed my feelings about it all. Ava being jealous and then taking out her jealousy on Gwen through angry rough touching with hand and mouth that literally left bruises. It was really bothersome. And afterwards when Gwen finds out why she was acting forceful, she had to ask Ava not to touch her next time when she's angry and that she was hurt emotionally by it. That left me feeling gross and confused because is that not what I think it sounds like? I pushed on hoping to get past that because it's fiction right? My feelings about it weren't, though.
Then another thing happened that really solidified my change in perspective. Ava telling Gwen she couldn't seek anyone else out and that if she had urges she needed to come to Ava and vice versa. That made me realize how much of a power imbalance there was and that Ava was manipulative for her own gain. Gwen was agreeable because she felt bad for Ava and Ava seemed ok using that without any thought but for her own situation and needs.
The whole grooming thing was strange, too. I thought there was some reason, that maybe something would come up about it later that tied into their "relationship" and for that, Gwen needed to be trimmed. But no. That was all. Ava just wanted it tamed. I get that shaving can be sensual for some but this just seemed like an excuse to insert another steamy scene but it was just body shaming. It's just Ava saying we're gonna do this without even asking if it was wanted. It would've been completely different if Gwen was the one to ask for it after seeing Ava's trim.
Too much of this felt like consent was lacking. I did finish it though for the sake of giving it a fair chance, completely all the way through. But my uncomfortable feelings about the power dynamic remained. I wanted to enjoy this so badly but my brain wouldn't let me stop feeling bad about those certain things.
Then another thing happened that really solidified my change in perspective. Ava telling Gwen she couldn't seek anyone else out and that if she had urges she needed to come to Ava and vice versa. That made me realize how much of a power imbalance there was and that Ava was manipulative for her own gain. Gwen was agreeable because she felt bad for Ava and Ava seemed ok using that without any thought but for her own situation and needs.
The whole grooming thing was strange, too. I thought there was some reason, that maybe something would come up about it later that tied into their "relationship" and for that, Gwen needed to be trimmed. But no. That was all. Ava just wanted it tamed. I get that shaving can be sensual for some but this just seemed like an excuse to insert another steamy scene but it was just body shaming. It's just Ava saying we're gonna do this without even asking if it was wanted. It would've been completely different if Gwen was the one to ask for it after seeing Ava's trim.
Too much of this felt like consent was lacking. I did finish it though for the sake of giving it a fair chance, completely all the way through. But my uncomfortable feelings about the power dynamic remained. I wanted to enjoy this so badly but my brain wouldn't let me stop feeling bad about those certain things.
April 23, 2023
This fake romance, marriage of convenience fantasy adventure is truly beautiful!
I’ve been on a bit of a fantasy rampage lately and forgot I bought this book a while ago, so I decided to give it a go and I’m so glad that I did.
I loved every minute of it! Two strong independent woman from different backgrounds coming together in the midst of rescues, dragons, treachery and admiration! What’s not to love.
The story and world building is very well done, I loved being taken on a journey through an unknown realm.
The characters both main and secondary are all great and have such depth. The leading ladies will have you aww-ring and swooning. Gwen and Ava are two strong, beautiful souls who are destined to be together even if they don’t know it when they agree to marry. Their journey takes them from rescuer and rescuee to friends to lustful lovers who eventually admit how much they truly love each other!
There’s a prophecy, dragon and lots of obstacles to over come, one of which is trying to convince Princess Ava’s people just how much in love she is with her brave rescuer! And those scenes go from mildly hot to a damn well furnace!
I both couldn’t stop reading this book but I didn’t want it to end! It’s fabulous.
This author knows how to build fantastic worlds and characters that ensure you get lost in the book and never want to escape.
I’ve been on a bit of a fantasy rampage lately and forgot I bought this book a while ago, so I decided to give it a go and I’m so glad that I did.
I loved every minute of it! Two strong independent woman from different backgrounds coming together in the midst of rescues, dragons, treachery and admiration! What’s not to love.
The story and world building is very well done, I loved being taken on a journey through an unknown realm.
The characters both main and secondary are all great and have such depth. The leading ladies will have you aww-ring and swooning. Gwen and Ava are two strong, beautiful souls who are destined to be together even if they don’t know it when they agree to marry. Their journey takes them from rescuer and rescuee to friends to lustful lovers who eventually admit how much they truly love each other!
There’s a prophecy, dragon and lots of obstacles to over come, one of which is trying to convince Princess Ava’s people just how much in love she is with her brave rescuer! And those scenes go from mildly hot to a damn well furnace!
I both couldn’t stop reading this book but I didn’t want it to end! It’s fabulous.
This author knows how to build fantastic worlds and characters that ensure you get lost in the book and never want to escape.
Read
January 20, 2023dnf @ ~20%; i really wanted to like this because hello dragons & a sapphic princess but this just really isn’t for me
the dialogue feels painfully immature and unnatural to me and everything happens too easily so nothing feels earned
i also find it completely unbelievable that a princess that decided to run away to avoid being married off to someone would put up that little of a fight and just immediately be like “yep guess i’m going back. literally nothing i could possibly do now”…at least give me a failed escape attempt and an argument or just anything that would make it even slightly believable
the dialogue feels painfully immature and unnatural to me and everything happens too easily so nothing feels earned
i also find it completely unbelievable that a princess that decided to run away to avoid being married off to someone would put up that little of a fight and just immediately be like “yep guess i’m going back. literally nothing i could possibly do now”…at least give me a failed escape attempt and an argument or just anything that would make it even slightly believable
February 21, 2022
A good story, overall
From the first page until about 25% in, I was for sure I had already read this book. I thought about giving up on it several times but decided to keep reading.
I know the beginning 1/4 of the book is similar if not exactly like another book I have read. I just don't remember the title and didn't feel the need to research it.
After about the 25% mark, the book became less familiar and instead became interesting.
Overall, it's a good book. There could have been some additional details, in some places, but I'm still glad I finished it.
From the first page until about 25% in, I was for sure I had already read this book. I thought about giving up on it several times but decided to keep reading.
I know the beginning 1/4 of the book is similar if not exactly like another book I have read. I just don't remember the title and didn't feel the need to research it.
After about the 25% mark, the book became less familiar and instead became interesting.
Overall, it's a good book. There could have been some additional details, in some places, but I'm still glad I finished it.
June 4, 2024
3.5. It felt like a rough draft more than a finished novel. Most things just moved easily without thought. Good if you need an easy read and uncomplicated read though.
March 24, 2024
Sapphic Fantasy Must Read!
4.5 ⭐️ Swoon…wonderful well written fantasy! Not so huge with world building but very much so in character. Prophecies. Rescuing Princesses. The badass female ‘hero’. Fake-relationship. Dragon! Beautifully done tension and spice. The enthusiasm! Amazing communication especially between our MCs even as some things are left unsaid. The openness of Ava, the Princess, is welcoming to read as she gives differing povs of kingdom/realm’s politics to not only assist Gwen, our brave hero (?), in understanding as well as genuinely listening and discussing ideas or conclusions. Their connection is sincere and true right from the beginning. Most definitely recommend!!
4.5 ⭐️ Swoon…wonderful well written fantasy! Not so huge with world building but very much so in character. Prophecies. Rescuing Princesses. The badass female ‘hero’. Fake-relationship. Dragon! Beautifully done tension and spice. The enthusiasm! Amazing communication especially between our MCs even as some things are left unsaid. The openness of Ava, the Princess, is welcoming to read as she gives differing povs of kingdom/realm’s politics to not only assist Gwen, our brave hero (?), in understanding as well as genuinely listening and discussing ideas or conclusions. Their connection is sincere and true right from the beginning. Most definitely recommend!!
July 29, 2024
4 Stars
Enjoyed this story more than I thought I would! Fake dating trope but monarchy level with a dragon involved. I was surprised by the number of intimate scenes and the escalation was pretty steady and solid. I also enjoyed the femme top energy later displayed by one of the characters and the naïveté of the other one. It’s cute. The author mentioned they’re not writing another book in the near future but I really really hope they do. What I’ve read so far is pretty good and entertaining!
Enjoyed this story more than I thought I would! Fake dating trope but monarchy level with a dragon involved. I was surprised by the number of intimate scenes and the escalation was pretty steady and solid. I also enjoyed the femme top energy later displayed by one of the characters and the naïveté of the other one. It’s cute. The author mentioned they’re not writing another book in the near future but I really really hope they do. What I’ve read so far is pretty good and entertaining!
January 22, 2023
sapphic silly and smutty
May 17, 2025
This is a tricky one. I think this book would benefit from clear CWs, in specific the Dub-Con tag, so folks can know before hand. It is not my jam at all, but I dont avoid books because of that (maybe I would skip something in certain plot circumstances), that being said, some people cant / dont want to handle it and it is a nice thing to give them a choice.
In my opinion, the book needed more work, but has potential. The characters are well crafted and it is a light fun read.
In my opinion, the book needed more work, but has potential. The characters are well crafted and it is a light fun read.
June 19, 2024
This is a pretty entertaining read. A kind of "what if marriage of convenience and both sides just kept pretending" which works fairly well, and holds the interest of the reader for much of the book. It also leads to some fun shenanigans.
I stumbled a bit towards the end, as the plot takes a turn that feels out of step with the spicy fun of the rest of the book. I mostly just skimmed at that point to get a sense for the rest of the story.
The spicy is good, even steamy in parts, and for fans of good spicy fantasy I think this will definitely satisfy.
I stumbled a bit towards the end, as the plot takes a turn that feels out of step with the spicy fun of the rest of the book. I mostly just skimmed at that point to get a sense for the rest of the story.
The spicy is good, even steamy in parts, and for fans of good spicy fantasy I think this will definitely satisfy.
September 14, 2022
A fun adventure!
Gwen, after receiving an offer that is too good to refuse, is on a mission to find Princess Ava who has disappeared just before her arranged wedding. Along the way, Gwen and Ava realise that returning Ava doesn’t solve either of their problems, and so they have one of life’s greatest challenges to overcome, what to do?
Very action packed, steamy, intense, adventure with two very strong female characters who are changing things up. Ava is good for Gwen, she challenges her emotionally and when they strike up their unlikely plans to overcome all that is awaiting for them if they return, they’re suddenly formally an amazing connection that is very powerful.
I loved the fantasy elements built into this story, making it more than just a typical rescue mission and hero’s welcome for Gwen upon completing her mission. It is much more complex. Ava and Gwen share some very intense moments, both together and with those who also have the power to help them make the future they both want together. They’re bond is strong from the moment they meet, with revelations shared that seal that as almost a pact between them.
I really enjoyed every moment of the story and hope it might be leading to future stories about Eva and Gwen, because their future is certainly a very exciting one.
Gwen, after receiving an offer that is too good to refuse, is on a mission to find Princess Ava who has disappeared just before her arranged wedding. Along the way, Gwen and Ava realise that returning Ava doesn’t solve either of their problems, and so they have one of life’s greatest challenges to overcome, what to do?
Very action packed, steamy, intense, adventure with two very strong female characters who are changing things up. Ava is good for Gwen, she challenges her emotionally and when they strike up their unlikely plans to overcome all that is awaiting for them if they return, they’re suddenly formally an amazing connection that is very powerful.
I loved the fantasy elements built into this story, making it more than just a typical rescue mission and hero’s welcome for Gwen upon completing her mission. It is much more complex. Ava and Gwen share some very intense moments, both together and with those who also have the power to help them make the future they both want together. They’re bond is strong from the moment they meet, with revelations shared that seal that as almost a pact between them.
I really enjoyed every moment of the story and hope it might be leading to future stories about Eva and Gwen, because their future is certainly a very exciting one.
August 11, 2022
Had to DNF this. The princess is such a selfish brat. She gave me the Ick and I couldn’t move passed it.
October 24, 2022
All the nice feelings 😍
I enjoyed this very much and I would read more by this author if she decides to publish anything else.
I enjoyed this very much and I would read more by this author if she decides to publish anything else.
October 31, 2022
This is mostly a cushy, sweet romance and the adventure part was a little too easy and lacking more of the dragon. Still a nicely entertaining read. 3.3 stars due to the romance.
December 26, 2022
3.5,, if i had a nickel for every book i’d read with a runaway princess named ava i’d have two nickels which isn’t a lot but it’s weird it happened twice right?
November 11, 2023
Echos of fairy tales. Enjoyable read. The dragon is an essential part of the story, but not a major character. I look forward to more from Kathleen de Plume.
July 6, 2022
2.5 stars. This book didn't really go in any way I expected it to, which isn't really a critique, and isn't really a compliment. I don't think it's a bad book at all; a little underwhelming in terms of plot and worldbuilding, but surprisingly detailed in a lot of little ways. And very sexy, if that's what you're in the mood for. It did a lot of good things, but also hit on a lot of my pet peeves, and didn't give me much, writing-wise.
The story follows a runaway princess, the bounty hunter who goes looking for her, and what happens after they return. There's a fake dating-esque aspect to this, all wrapped up in a lot of miscommunication/misunderstanding that really did not work for me. It's unfortunate, because I just read another book that I thought did misunderstandings really well, and brought a lot of angst and tension and made it really delicious, and I kept comparing this to that, and this book did not hold up well in comparison. I was just frustrated with the characters. The premise that they have to pretend to be madly in love, and each of them think they're pretending, but they're actually falling... it's fine, but it went on too long. It gave me no emotional satisfaction. And I have to say, all the public sex and making out was just over the top. I cringed so many times. It's framed as being part of Ava's big political plot to free herself from an unwanted suitor, which is great. But it was a little too outlandish to take seriously. The worldbuilding was interesting, but kind of sparse, and it felt like so many things weren't taken into account. One tiny example: barely a weeks' ride away from the castle and there are no more towns guards? And the princess can just casually rock up to the local pub without garnering a train or followers or something? Eh, idk, a lot of things just didn't seem well thought-out. And I have to say
But not everything was all bad. During the tournament, there was a lot of minute info about archery and melee and stuff that I actually really liked. And I enjoyed the considerations about war and warfare, how much and how little civilians get involved, and a lot of other interesting details. For a book with this title, it took a long time before we got a lot of dragon stuff, but when it came, it was a lot different than what I expected, and I enjoyed that. Super creative interpretation of the princess and dragon trope. I didn't love Ava, but I did like Gwen quite a bit. Also the sex scenes, when they weren't weird, were really hot.
Overall, I'm glad I gave this a try. This was 100% a cover borrow; the art on the cover is absolutely gorgeous, and I'd give a kingdom of my own for more like it. The book itself was kind of a let down, but I'm picky, so try it yourself if you're interested.
Content warnings:
The story follows a runaway princess, the bounty hunter who goes looking for her, and what happens after they return. There's a fake dating-esque aspect to this, all wrapped up in a lot of miscommunication/misunderstanding that really did not work for me. It's unfortunate, because I just read another book that I thought did misunderstandings really well, and brought a lot of angst and tension and made it really delicious, and I kept comparing this to that, and this book did not hold up well in comparison. I was just frustrated with the characters. The premise that they have to pretend to be madly in love, and each of them think they're pretending, but they're actually falling... it's fine, but it went on too long. It gave me no emotional satisfaction. And I have to say, all the public sex and making out was just over the top. I cringed so many times. It's framed as being part of Ava's big political plot to free herself from an unwanted suitor, which is great. But it was a little too outlandish to take seriously. The worldbuilding was interesting, but kind of sparse, and it felt like so many things weren't taken into account. One tiny example: barely a weeks' ride away from the castle and there are no more towns guards? And the princess can just casually rock up to the local pub without garnering a train or followers or something? Eh, idk, a lot of things just didn't seem well thought-out. And I have to say
But not everything was all bad. During the tournament, there was a lot of minute info about archery and melee and stuff that I actually really liked. And I enjoyed the considerations about war and warfare, how much and how little civilians get involved, and a lot of other interesting details. For a book with this title, it took a long time before we got a lot of dragon stuff, but when it came, it was a lot different than what I expected, and I enjoyed that. Super creative interpretation of the princess and dragon trope. I didn't love Ava, but I did like Gwen quite a bit. Also the sex scenes, when they weren't weird, were really hot.
Overall, I'm glad I gave this a try. This was 100% a cover borrow; the art on the cover is absolutely gorgeous, and I'd give a kingdom of my own for more like it. The book itself was kind of a let down, but I'm picky, so try it yourself if you're interested.
Content warnings:
June 4, 2024
I tried so hard to not DNF it but I did at around the 80% mark.
Here are the things I liked:
1. Interesting premise
2. Lesbians
3. Nonbinary dragon
Here are the things I disliked (SPOILERS):
1. Gwen (the MC) is stupid. Like genuinely. So clueless. It’s very irritating. I assumed she would be a badass, but she’s just some girl who happens to be tall.
2. Speaking of her being tall… there’s so many references to the size difference between the two MCs. If that’s your thing, that’s fine, but it didn’t do much for me. I was also confused as to what Gwen looked like because she’s described as taller than most men, with broad shoulders, and lots of muscles but that’s not who we see on the cover.
3. The dubcon scene which others have mentioned was pretty bad and not handled well at all.
4. There were barely any dragons in the book, despite the book having the word “Dragon” in the title. And when the dragon did appear near the end, the conversations between the dragon and Gwen were so corny.
5. The dialogue was awful. Corny and unrealistic.
6. In fact, the whole thing was unrealistic. The plan of making people think they’re in love by constantly getting caught in the middle of having sex is crazy.
7. The way same sex relationships/homophobia was dealt with was so inconsistent.
8. So much telling!!! Very little showing.
9. The “grooming” scene was really uncomfortable.
10. There was a lot more anal play than I was expecting. If that’s your thing, you might enjoy it. It’s definitely not my thing though.
11. The communication issues between the MCs are stupid. Ava asking her if she’s in a “fine mood” instead of just asking if she’s horny was ridiculous.
12. Frankly, the actual plot was really boring.
13. The characters felt really flat. Like, REALLY flat.
14. The conversation where Gwen’s mother alluded to Ava possibly being a pedophile??? That felt so random and out of place.
15. Very minimal world-building.
16. The sex scenes were not good. The descriptions made me VERY uncomfortable. I’m talking about things like “copious amounts of liquid” and “puckered rear end”
All in all, this felt like it was written by a horny MALE teenager who tried to copy the Priory of the Orange Tree but with poorly-written smut in place of an actual story that’s worth anyone’s time.
Here are the things I liked:
1. Interesting premise
2. Lesbians
3. Nonbinary dragon
Here are the things I disliked (SPOILERS):
1. Gwen (the MC) is stupid. Like genuinely. So clueless. It’s very irritating. I assumed she would be a badass, but she’s just some girl who happens to be tall.
2. Speaking of her being tall… there’s so many references to the size difference between the two MCs. If that’s your thing, that’s fine, but it didn’t do much for me. I was also confused as to what Gwen looked like because she’s described as taller than most men, with broad shoulders, and lots of muscles but that’s not who we see on the cover.
3. The dubcon scene which others have mentioned was pretty bad and not handled well at all.
4. There were barely any dragons in the book, despite the book having the word “Dragon” in the title. And when the dragon did appear near the end, the conversations between the dragon and Gwen were so corny.
5. The dialogue was awful. Corny and unrealistic.
6. In fact, the whole thing was unrealistic. The plan of making people think they’re in love by constantly getting caught in the middle of having sex is crazy.
7. The way same sex relationships/homophobia was dealt with was so inconsistent.
8. So much telling!!! Very little showing.
9. The “grooming” scene was really uncomfortable.
10. There was a lot more anal play than I was expecting. If that’s your thing, you might enjoy it. It’s definitely not my thing though.
11. The communication issues between the MCs are stupid. Ava asking her if she’s in a “fine mood” instead of just asking if she’s horny was ridiculous.
12. Frankly, the actual plot was really boring.
13. The characters felt really flat. Like, REALLY flat.
14. The conversation where Gwen’s mother alluded to Ava possibly being a pedophile??? That felt so random and out of place.
15. Very minimal world-building.
16. The sex scenes were not good. The descriptions made me VERY uncomfortable. I’m talking about things like “copious amounts of liquid” and “puckered rear end”
All in all, this felt like it was written by a horny MALE teenager who tried to copy the Priory of the Orange Tree but with poorly-written smut in place of an actual story that’s worth anyone’s time.
July 13, 2022
This one is a good start. With 311 pages, this fairytale is the one genre I had not read. A princess being rescued by a hero is what the world knows but Kathleen has surprised the women by giving them a heroine instead.
Herself being a woman loving another woman, the story does not seem far-fatched and neither does the love between the princess and the bounty hunter; Ava and Gwen.
Gwendoline is a bounty hunter looking to make more gold for the sake of her brother, so taking up the runaway princess was all good until it came to the dragon. . I have read previous reviews of this book that suggest a 5 star rating is not great and another suggestion it's a disgusting book. I would like to just admit that I took this reviews for what they truly were, other people wanting to get a perfect author who has only written one book and might now be put off to write another because of the negatives this one raised. I understand that the characters of Ava and Gwen are on a pedestal due to their familial,birth and financial status . What I do not understand is that some people are reviewing on consent( which is very important), but at some point every human being has done something to someone else that hurt them without consent.
With the comment aside, I loved the journey of their love story being slow but still relatively moving. The story is written from Gwen's perspective and it's therefore one huge insight in her experience but the voice and thought process of Princess Ava is still clear.
Overall my extra star rating are for producing the first book which is not too short to be a novella and not too long to drag out the story. I would like to mention that this book was maybe written for the young sapphic adults who have always wanted their own story where the princess is rescued by a woman
Herself being a woman loving another woman, the story does not seem far-fatched and neither does the love between the princess and the bounty hunter; Ava and Gwen.
Gwendoline is a bounty hunter looking to make more gold for the sake of her brother, so taking up the runaway princess was all good until it came to the dragon. . I have read previous reviews of this book that suggest a 5 star rating is not great and another suggestion it's a disgusting book. I would like to just admit that I took this reviews for what they truly were, other people wanting to get a perfect author who has only written one book and might now be put off to write another because of the negatives this one raised. I understand that the characters of Ava and Gwen are on a pedestal due to their familial,birth and financial status . What I do not understand is that some people are reviewing on consent( which is very important), but at some point every human being has done something to someone else that hurt them without consent.
With the comment aside, I loved the journey of their love story being slow but still relatively moving. The story is written from Gwen's perspective and it's therefore one huge insight in her experience but the voice and thought process of Princess Ava is still clear.
Overall my extra star rating are for producing the first book which is not too short to be a novella and not too long to drag out the story. I would like to mention that this book was maybe written for the young sapphic adults who have always wanted their own story where the princess is rescued by a woman
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2023
I couldn't get myself to finish reading this book.
DNF 75% in, even though I wanted to DNF 40% into the book.
Just a bad story, chemistry between the two MCs, the story moves in a strange rythm and hurries through some parts that makes you go; er... Did I Skip a page?, and sometimes it repeats the same descriptions or scenes over and over.
No real plot or story
And the book is mainly about the MC and the princess trying to convince people at the castle/court that they are "madly in love" by trying to get caught having fake sex all around the castle all the time. This gets old after the second time, but NO it keeps happening several times, to make it "convincing" that they are in love.
The Princess really gets on my nerves. She makes all the decisions and doesn't stop to think about anything else but herself. And the MC/Gwen is just so... Weak... She is a bountyhunter! But no, she cannot for the life of her think of any reason why the Princess is blushing when they touch or kiss.... It must be because she is so disgusted with this plan... 🙄 🙄
This book was just bad, and as the two MCs starts having real sex, after "convincing everyone" that they are in love. It just gets even more weird and looses the tiny plot/story it had.... Just to spend half a page explaining something important like a legend about Dragons being misunderstood for centuries... Oh well 🤷🏼♀️ back to having sex again..... 🙄 🙄 🙄 🙄
No. Didn't like anything about this book. It had me hesitate and come up with excuses of NOT to read it, until I told myself: Life is too short to read bad book. And so I happily put it down!
1/5 start, Wish I could give it 0 starts though. This sucked!!
DNF 75% in, even though I wanted to DNF 40% into the book.
Just a bad story, chemistry between the two MCs, the story moves in a strange rythm and hurries through some parts that makes you go; er... Did I Skip a page?, and sometimes it repeats the same descriptions or scenes over and over.
No real plot or story
And the book is mainly about the MC and the princess trying to convince people at the castle/court that they are "madly in love" by trying to get caught having fake sex all around the castle all the time. This gets old after the second time, but NO it keeps happening several times, to make it "convincing" that they are in love.
The Princess really gets on my nerves. She makes all the decisions and doesn't stop to think about anything else but herself. And the MC/Gwen is just so... Weak... She is a bountyhunter! But no, she cannot for the life of her think of any reason why the Princess is blushing when they touch or kiss.... It must be because she is so disgusted with this plan... 🙄 🙄
This book was just bad, and as the two MCs starts having real sex, after "convincing everyone" that they are in love. It just gets even more weird and looses the tiny plot/story it had.... Just to spend half a page explaining something important like a legend about Dragons being misunderstood for centuries... Oh well 🤷🏼♀️ back to having sex again..... 🙄 🙄 🙄 🙄
No. Didn't like anything about this book. It had me hesitate and come up with excuses of NOT to read it, until I told myself: Life is too short to read bad book. And so I happily put it down!
1/5 start, Wish I could give it 0 starts though. This sucked!!
June 25, 2023
I am generally ok with fake dating trope if it is done well. and both parties consent to everything being done. At first Gwen is ok with how things are going but Ava goes too far too many times to count. the princess had a little too much power over Gwer, for my liking. And the whole needing to " show off their love" was ick. Then when Ava got Jealous and hurt Gwen over it made me really not like Ava. I found Ava very manipulative and thoughtless in regards to Gwen. The whole situation felt very on consensual for Gwen.
The dialogue feels more like what young teenagers would write not grown ass adults. And I find it unbelievable that Ava who ran away to avoid a marriage would so easily been taken back without so much as a fight.
I wanted to like this book but I could not get around the way Ava acted. She was immature and wanted to control all aspects of the relationship not taking Gwen's feelings into consideration.
I give this a 1 out of 2 stars.
The dialogue feels more like what young teenagers would write not grown ass adults. And I find it unbelievable that Ava who ran away to avoid a marriage would so easily been taken back without so much as a fight.
I wanted to like this book but I could not get around the way Ava acted. She was immature and wanted to control all aspects of the relationship not taking Gwen's feelings into consideration.
I give this a 1 out of 2 stars.
May 4, 2023
I DNR'd with 5 hours left on the audio book and then made this account just to warn other queer women about this book.
The whole story isn't believable because the characters/storyline aren't fleshed out. Both heroines are flat and tropey and read like 15 year olds. I'm not sure what age they are supposed to be but it feels very wrong to be reading about them dry humping and the princess all but raping the knight.
There's no real conflict resolution in the book, every time these two might face backlash for something it's quickly resolved in a sentence or two. It adds to the story feeling like a children's book. I was honestly shocked to find the author is a queer woman and not a straight man hiding behind a woman's name. It's gross. I was pumped for the some lesbian smut but this isn't it.
The whole story isn't believable because the characters/storyline aren't fleshed out. Both heroines are flat and tropey and read like 15 year olds. I'm not sure what age they are supposed to be but it feels very wrong to be reading about them dry humping and the princess all but raping the knight.
There's no real conflict resolution in the book, every time these two might face backlash for something it's quickly resolved in a sentence or two. It adds to the story feeling like a children's book. I was honestly shocked to find the author is a queer woman and not a straight man hiding behind a woman's name. It's gross. I was pumped for the some lesbian smut but this isn't it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2024
Yeah ok,how should I put my thoughts about this book,cause there's always so many of them and I never feel like I wrote everything I wanted to say.
This book has some fake dating/marriage of convenience,but it's only focused on the sexual parts of it,and I can't really recall a sweet moment between them that could had made them in love with each other.
In this sexual scenes there's dub con,not really a fan for this one,I've read worse ,so I didn't really felt anything towards it,much more was the confusion, cause that scene didn't change anything, didn't do anything for the plot,but there are some people that maybe would enjoy it more than I did,and I don't really like to judge people tastes.
The fighting and the prophecy???yeah that was cringe, and obviously rushed, couldn't take it even seriously.
A weird read but not an unpleasant one.
This book has some fake dating/marriage of convenience,but it's only focused on the sexual parts of it,and I can't really recall a sweet moment between them that could had made them in love with each other.
In this sexual scenes there's dub con,not really a fan for this one,I've read worse ,so I didn't really felt anything towards it,much more was the confusion, cause that scene didn't change anything, didn't do anything for the plot,but there are some people that maybe would enjoy it more than I did,and I don't really like to judge people tastes.
The fighting and the prophecy???yeah that was cringe, and obviously rushed, couldn't take it even seriously.
A weird read but not an unpleasant one.
June 22, 2022
A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club for free in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Dragon Queens is a high fantasy, smutty read that heavily relies on the fake dating trope. There's one scene with questionable consent, but otherwise just a lot of poor communication. I have a very low tolerance for consent issues, so that scene made me pretty uncomfortable, but otherwise this was a pretty good read. The focus is definitely on the physical relationship, though, so bear that in mind.
The plot follows Ava, a princess who has been kidnapped and held hostage by a dragon, and Gwen, the bounty hunter-turned-knight who comes to her rescue. Ava comes up with a plan to fix both of their problems as they return to the kingdom- a false romance.
In fantasy, I appreciate worldbuilding and plot twists. While Dragon Queens was centered on the development of Gwen and Ava's relationship, there were a few interesting developments. I'd have preferred more of a focus on worldbuilding, but that would have fundamentally changed this book. So while it wasn't my favorite, it was a pretty solid read if you're looking for some steamy sapphic scenes.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Dragon Queens is a high fantasy, smutty read that heavily relies on the fake dating trope. There's one scene with questionable consent, but otherwise just a lot of poor communication. I have a very low tolerance for consent issues, so that scene made me pretty uncomfortable, but otherwise this was a pretty good read. The focus is definitely on the physical relationship, though, so bear that in mind.
The plot follows Ava, a princess who has been kidnapped and held hostage by a dragon, and Gwen, the bounty hunter-turned-knight who comes to her rescue. Ava comes up with a plan to fix both of their problems as they return to the kingdom- a false romance.
In fantasy, I appreciate worldbuilding and plot twists. While Dragon Queens was centered on the development of Gwen and Ava's relationship, there were a few interesting developments. I'd have preferred more of a focus on worldbuilding, but that would have fundamentally changed this book. So while it wasn't my favorite, it was a pretty solid read if you're looking for some steamy sapphic scenes.
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