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Silver Dragon Shifter Brothers #2
The Dragon's Promise
Penn
The only female I ever wanted was promised to my brother. But he found a woman, fell in love, and Venus is back on the market. Only she doesn’t want someone like me. A self-professed nerd, but worse, a male ten years younger than her. She’s stubborn, but I’m determined to win her over. Until she leaves.
Venus
The cost is high for a dragon shifter who’s single after a certain age. For a girl who grew up the laughingstock of her clan, mating Penn is the best way for history to repeat itself. So I flee to live my last days in peace. Only the persistent and devastatingly handsome male finds me. And when I start to melt, another female stakes her claim. And I have to decide if shifter politics are worth losing my life and my guy over.
The only female I ever wanted was promised to my brother. But he found a woman, fell in love, and Venus is back on the market. Only she doesn’t want someone like me. A self-professed nerd, but worse, a male ten years younger than her. She’s stubborn, but I’m determined to win her over. Until she leaves.
Venus
The cost is high for a dragon shifter who’s single after a certain age. For a girl who grew up the laughingstock of her clan, mating Penn is the best way for history to repeat itself. So I flee to live my last days in peace. Only the persistent and devastatingly handsome male finds me. And when I start to melt, another female stakes her claim. And I have to decide if shifter politics are worth losing my life and my guy over.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2022
131 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Marie Johnston
100 books1,058 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 28, 2022
Sweetly sexy and emotionally thrilling journey filled with dangerous and engaging charters, witty banter, heart racing twists, exciting turns and undeniable passion. Really enjoyed this edge of your seat exciting adventure.
June 2, 2022
Penn brings his A game to this woo fest
Penn stole my heart in book one
Venus took a bit to warm up to
Sure Penn was younger, and came across as a 'know it all' but when he loved?
He loved with every vibrant scale he had
This was packed with action, wooing (loved the lengths he went to no shame in his game)
Lots of action that will have you gasping out loud - Venus kicks some serious backside
Some light angst
And a sweet HEA
Penn stole my heart in book one
Venus took a bit to warm up to
Sure Penn was younger, and came across as a 'know it all' but when he loved?
He loved with every vibrant scale he had
This was packed with action, wooing (loved the lengths he went to no shame in his game)
Lots of action that will have you gasping out loud - Venus kicks some serious backside
Some light angst
And a sweet HEA
Want to read
September 22, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/22/2022)! 🎁
February 22, 2024
Spoilers ahead in review:
At 11 percent, I am struggling a bit. The FMC would rather DIE than marry the MMC because he's 10 years younger? Because her family would give her a hard time about it? She doesn't hate him. She doesn't really have an issue with him at all. It is JUST because of his age. And he's 25, not 12. This is approaching TSTL territory but I am going to keep reading to see if maybe it gets better.
At 19 percent, the FMC's internal monologue: "But telling him in no uncertain terms would I agree to be his mate was the same as admitting out loud that I would die in just over three weeks." And why won't she marry him? Hate him? No. He's underage? No. Her pride. She thinks he's offering to be a hero, basically. She doesn't think he will treat her badly or abuse her. In fact, the only thing she has thought that might be negative about their life together is that he knows everything and would explain how things work. She would rather DIE than marry a hot man who would explain how things work to her? I would DNF if I didn't really enjoy some books by this author in the past.
At 27 percent, "If I wasn’t careful, I was going to fall so hard and so fast for Penn that no one could pick me up." Do what? Maybe this storyline just isn't for me. I feel like if the main character is willing to DIE instead of marry someone, it needs to be for a pretty huge reason. So far, no good reason has been given, and not only that, the FMC can see herself falling for the guy. What's the problem then? She has now expressed in her inner monologue that her concern is his motivations. That he wants to rule. Even if that was the case, since she has no concerns about his potential treatment of her, I am perplexed by her choices. I understand her family and upbringing has screwed her up, but this is just ridiculous decision-making from a supposedly strong FMC.
At 38 percent, the MMC's inner monologue: "And after talking to her, I understood why she preferred execution over settling for any mate who would take her." Well, I am glad he understands because I sure don't. So far, the good things about this book are the writing and the supporting characters. I am interested more in the supporting characters than the main characters, mainly because the FMC makes zero sense.
At 60 percent, I am done with this FMC. The MMC has another woman who wants to mate with him and she's mad at him for asking for time to think about it. He's only asking for time so a solution can be found, but the fact she has been adamant she doesn't want him means she has no right to be angry with him. She should feel upset with HERSELF for repeatedly telling the MMC she doesn't want to mate with him. Instead, she is reactionary and gets angry with him, when he didn't even express interest in the other woman. The MMC is too good for her.
At 91 percent, the action of this book has been entertaining and I am invested in the supporting characters. The romance isn't compelling at all due to all the issues I outlined above.
End of book: This author is a skilled writer, but this plot was a miss for me. I couldn't get onboard the romance due to the FMC making stupid decisions to the point I couldn't root for her character. The supporting characters were interesting and the subplot was interesting. I recommend reading Highest Bidder and Based On Principle from this author, as both are 5 star reads. This, however, is a 2.5 star read, solely for everything about this book OTHER than the romance.
At 11 percent, I am struggling a bit. The FMC would rather DIE than marry the MMC because he's 10 years younger? Because her family would give her a hard time about it? She doesn't hate him. She doesn't really have an issue with him at all. It is JUST because of his age. And he's 25, not 12. This is approaching TSTL territory but I am going to keep reading to see if maybe it gets better.
At 19 percent, the FMC's internal monologue: "But telling him in no uncertain terms would I agree to be his mate was the same as admitting out loud that I would die in just over three weeks." And why won't she marry him? Hate him? No. He's underage? No. Her pride. She thinks he's offering to be a hero, basically. She doesn't think he will treat her badly or abuse her. In fact, the only thing she has thought that might be negative about their life together is that he knows everything and would explain how things work. She would rather DIE than marry a hot man who would explain how things work to her? I would DNF if I didn't really enjoy some books by this author in the past.
At 27 percent, "If I wasn’t careful, I was going to fall so hard and so fast for Penn that no one could pick me up." Do what? Maybe this storyline just isn't for me. I feel like if the main character is willing to DIE instead of marry someone, it needs to be for a pretty huge reason. So far, no good reason has been given, and not only that, the FMC can see herself falling for the guy. What's the problem then? She has now expressed in her inner monologue that her concern is his motivations. That he wants to rule. Even if that was the case, since she has no concerns about his potential treatment of her, I am perplexed by her choices. I understand her family and upbringing has screwed her up, but this is just ridiculous decision-making from a supposedly strong FMC.
At 38 percent, the MMC's inner monologue: "And after talking to her, I understood why she preferred execution over settling for any mate who would take her." Well, I am glad he understands because I sure don't. So far, the good things about this book are the writing and the supporting characters. I am interested more in the supporting characters than the main characters, mainly because the FMC makes zero sense.
At 60 percent, I am done with this FMC. The MMC has another woman who wants to mate with him and she's mad at him for asking for time to think about it. He's only asking for time so a solution can be found, but the fact she has been adamant she doesn't want him means she has no right to be angry with him. She should feel upset with HERSELF for repeatedly telling the MMC she doesn't want to mate with him. Instead, she is reactionary and gets angry with him, when he didn't even express interest in the other woman. The MMC is too good for her.
At 91 percent, the action of this book has been entertaining and I am invested in the supporting characters. The romance isn't compelling at all due to all the issues I outlined above.
End of book: This author is a skilled writer, but this plot was a miss for me. I couldn't get onboard the romance due to the FMC making stupid decisions to the point I couldn't root for her character. The supporting characters were interesting and the subplot was interesting. I recommend reading Highest Bidder and Based On Principle from this author, as both are 5 star reads. This, however, is a 2.5 star read, solely for everything about this book OTHER than the romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2022
Penn has been infatuated with Venus for years. But she was promised to his brother because of some antiquated rules of their families. However, when his brother meets his mate, the contact between them is up and Penn wants to step in. He wants to because he is in love with Venus, not because of any designs of combining the families.
Venus hasn’t had it so easy. Her parents were terrible, and the treatment she received growing up is heartbreaking. She is a smart strong woman but has very little confidence in herself because of her past. She is attracted to Penn, but his age is a huge hang-up for her.
Penn does his best to convince Venus he is true in his feelings and once she realizes that is in all in, and for the long haul she changes her way of thinking. There are outside conflicts with another dragon family, and I am curious to see where Marie Johnston takes this series, but I am really enjoying it. If you want to try paranormal shifter romances, but aren't sure if you are going to like them, this is a great series to start in. They are light on the shifter aspect, but well written and engaging stories.
POV:Dual 1st Person
PoP: 63%
Venus hasn’t had it so easy. Her parents were terrible, and the treatment she received growing up is heartbreaking. She is a smart strong woman but has very little confidence in herself because of her past. She is attracted to Penn, but his age is a huge hang-up for her.
Penn does his best to convince Venus he is true in his feelings and once she realizes that is in all in, and for the long haul she changes her way of thinking. There are outside conflicts with another dragon family, and I am curious to see where Marie Johnston takes this series, but I am really enjoying it. If you want to try paranormal shifter romances, but aren't sure if you are going to like them, this is a great series to start in. They are light on the shifter aspect, but well written and engaging stories.
POV:Dual 1st Person
PoP: 63%
January 21, 2023
HEA
Standalone, but read series in order to avoid spoilers
Shifter, age gap, older woman
*over 18 readers only *
Trigger warnings
Bullying
Murder
She was promised to his older brother, but that brother fell in love with a human. When the youngest brother offers to take the older brother's place, she feels like he only does it for the marriage contract. The youngest brother has been in love with her the whole time. Can he convince her that he wants her just for her? When they get attacked, will they be in time to save each other?
Standalone, but read series in order to avoid spoilers
Shifter, age gap, older woman
*over 18 readers only *
Trigger warnings
Bullying
Murder
She was promised to his older brother, but that brother fell in love with a human. When the youngest brother offers to take the older brother's place, she feels like he only does it for the marriage contract. The youngest brother has been in love with her the whole time. Can he convince her that he wants her just for her? When they get attacked, will they be in time to save each other?
April 29, 2025
Better
The first book was a disappointment, but since I like the author I read this one.
The only thing that is bothering me is the cover. The FMC is described as a blond with green-tipped hair. On the cover, she has reddish-brown hair. I noticed it is the same for the next book, which is a side character in this book, and the 1st. In book one, she wants to dye her hair blond to please a man and they talk her out of it saying her shade of brown hair is too beautiful. On her cover she is blond, so either it was another mistake, or she went and dyed it.
The first book was a disappointment, but since I like the author I read this one.
The only thing that is bothering me is the cover. The FMC is described as a blond with green-tipped hair. On the cover, she has reddish-brown hair. I noticed it is the same for the next book, which is a side character in this book, and the 1st. In book one, she wants to dye her hair blond to please a man and they talk her out of it saying her shade of brown hair is too beautiful. On her cover she is blond, so either it was another mistake, or she went and dyed it.
December 10, 2022
Sparks and all the feels
I really can’t stop reading these books. I love how Marie manages to make the feels fly off the page.
It’s no secret that Venus does not want Penn, which does not stop him AT ALL. And when she gives in, when she finally decides to give him a chance. Magic. I felt that change of attitude in my bones, and then the firs kiss. Sparks!
And that my dear readers, is what romance is all about for me 💚
I really can’t stop reading these books. I love how Marie manages to make the feels fly off the page.
It’s no secret that Venus does not want Penn, which does not stop him AT ALL. And when she gives in, when she finally decides to give him a chance. Magic. I felt that change of attitude in my bones, and then the firs kiss. Sparks!
And that my dear readers, is what romance is all about for me 💚
November 6, 2022
Better than the first book in the series, this story features a strong, closed off heroine who is fighting her attraction, in part due their term year gap in age.
I won't read the 3rd book in the series, but might consider the books about the Jade pack. Their story lines seem a little more layered and interesting.
I won't read the 3rd book in the series, but might consider the books about the Jade pack. Their story lines seem a little more layered and interesting.
September 11, 2024
I’m still not a fan of the mate by 35 or turn feral thing. Putting that aside I really liked these two characters because their conflict was specific to who they were as people rather than that. It was rewarding seeing them learning who they were and finding out they were good together in spite of expectations. I liked that they were stronger together than apart and built each other up.
August 17, 2025
Enjoyable. Glad we didn’t have to spend too much of the book on Venus’ hangups.
Featuring another dragon clan was interesting, though it’s pretty sad Deacon didn’t know about the issues considering he’s like their king sorta. He needs to do a better job monitoring.
I see the potential for other stories here too, like with Ronan’s or Lachlan, even if he’s already mated.
Featuring another dragon clan was interesting, though it’s pretty sad Deacon didn’t know about the issues considering he’s like their king sorta. He needs to do a better job monitoring.
I see the potential for other stories here too, like with Ronan’s or Lachlan, even if he’s already mated.
June 24, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline is entertaining and the chemistry between the characters good. I can't wait for more from this author. I received this book as a FREE ARC copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.
July 4, 2022
Excellent
Totally love this couple! She has a strength that you immediately love about her. He is the perfect geeky hunk. I love this storyline. Action and romance with a happy ending. Can't wait to read the next book!
Totally love this couple! She has a strength that you immediately love about her. He is the perfect geeky hunk. I love this storyline. Action and romance with a happy ending. Can't wait to read the next book!
September 23, 2022
good read
Thoroughly enjoyable read and liked all the characters apart from the bad ones. Different with the clans but nice they worked together, do like me a dragon who knows about retribution.
Thoroughly enjoyable read and liked all the characters apart from the bad ones. Different with the clans but nice they worked together, do like me a dragon who knows about retribution.
March 22, 2023
Loved it!
Nerdy and hot and steamy dragon shifter... yes, I all that a good combination. I read it quickly. It was hard to put down. I loved the strong female lead.. Venus is Awesome!!!!
Nerdy and hot and steamy dragon shifter... yes, I all that a good combination. I read it quickly. It was hard to put down. I loved the strong female lead.. Venus is Awesome!!!!
November 28, 2023
Great Story!
I've read several of these dragon shifter stories and have enjoyed all of them. The main characters have valid reasons for what they do and don't want, and I like getting both points of view. Throw in some clan politics and there you go! I highly recommend them!
I've read several of these dragon shifter stories and have enjoyed all of them. The main characters have valid reasons for what they do and don't want, and I like getting both points of view. Throw in some clan politics and there you go! I highly recommend them!
August 3, 2022
Dragons promise
This second book was so good. I can see a book coming for Brighten and Ronan. I loved the feisty Venus. Loved the sweet Penn. Loved the adventure and love!
This second book was so good. I can see a book coming for Brighten and Ronan. I loved the feisty Venus. Loved the sweet Penn. Loved the adventure and love!
October 1, 2022
dragon
So there is an even shorter deadline than book one. There is a cougar situation to be dealt with. A hea
So there is an even shorter deadline than book one. There is a cougar situation to be dealt with. A hea
Read
December 28, 2022DNF 41%
August 30, 2023
enjoyable
I am really enjoying these stories, this was a new author for me and when I read the first book, I had to get the next one. Can’t wait to get the next one, too.
I am really enjoying these stories, this was a new author for me and when I read the first book, I had to get the next one. Can’t wait to get the next one, too.
November 19, 2023
Awesome beginning
Interesting beginning to know the difference in the clans, wonderful people. Such a easy read, the words flow from the pages.
Interesting beginning to know the difference in the clans, wonderful people. Such a easy read, the words flow from the pages.
September 28, 2024
A great stand-alone addition to the series!
It was another fun quick read with some good characters and a world that continues to expand.
It was another fun quick read with some good characters and a world that continues to expand.
May 29, 2022
Venus has three weeks left to marry, or face her fate. I was glad to see that she and Deacon called off their arranged marriage (shameless plug for The Dragon's Oath); they were not right for each other, and he's found his true and fated love. There's no one on the horizon for her, except Penn, Deacon's brother. Penn's been in love with Venus forever; she has a problem... their 10 year age difference. They seem to be opposites, yet have so much in common. I loved this book as much as the last one... Action, mystery, romance of course, clan politics, family drama... Most are resolved by the end of the book. Can't wait for the next one! I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
May 25, 2022
What do you do when you have to get married in a hurry and the only offer you’ve had is someone you can’t believe would ever really want you? Penn has a very short time to convince Venus he means business, though his courtship is interrupted by bad guys, kidnapping, mayhem and adventure that ensure the story reads really fast. I particularly appreciate that the characters have depth to them; Venus isn’t just being obstinate in refusing Penn, she’s very much a product of her upbringing. I also like the rather convoluted and thrilling plot against the good guys. Marie had me doubting everyone! Venus is no damsel in distress here, even if she is running out of time, but Penn’s respect for her is greater even than his desire to save her from herself. I really appreciate that. I received an advance copy in return for my honest review.
May 24, 2022
Venus is approaching her 35th birthday and must mate or be eliminated before she becomes feral. Penn, the younger brother to the dragon originally promised to her has had feelings for her for a long time, but she is 10 years older. It doesn’t bother him so why does it matter to her? As the ruling family, Penn and his brother go to a small community to investigate a feral dragon. Things go south and she comes to the rescue. He wants to be with her, so will she get over her reservations about him before time is up? Nicely written and enjoyable read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
May 14, 2022
Love and action
Dragon shifter Venus Jade is in a tough place. As a dragon, especially from a ruling clan, she must mate before thirty-five. If she doesn’t, she will be eliminated because an unmated dragon will go feral. She was promised to another, but he found his true mate and now she may be lost. She’s resigned herself to her fate, but Penn Silver is willing to take his brother’s place. Will she accept his offer or go to her death?
Penn Silver has loved Venus since he was a teen. The ten-year difference in their ages doesn’t bother him, why should it bother her? In the middle of him trying to convince Venus they are meant to be together, he and his brother are called on to take care of a feral shifter. Unfortunately, what should be a simple but bloody task turns into a life-threatening episode. An episode that Venus comes to their rescue. Now to figure out what is gong on in the little shifter town they’re in.
Dragon shifter Venus Jade is in a tough place. As a dragon, especially from a ruling clan, she must mate before thirty-five. If she doesn’t, she will be eliminated because an unmated dragon will go feral. She was promised to another, but he found his true mate and now she may be lost. She’s resigned herself to her fate, but Penn Silver is willing to take his brother’s place. Will she accept his offer or go to her death?
Penn Silver has loved Venus since he was a teen. The ten-year difference in their ages doesn’t bother him, why should it bother her? In the middle of him trying to convince Venus they are meant to be together, he and his brother are called on to take care of a feral shifter. Unfortunately, what should be a simple but bloody task turns into a life-threatening episode. An episode that Venus comes to their rescue. Now to figure out what is gong on in the little shifter town they’re in.
May 13, 2022
Loving These Silver Dragon Stories!!
Story #1 in this series had Lachlan and Venus destined to an arranged mating. Neither really wanted the other. When Lachlan finds his fated mate, both are relieved. For story #2 Lachlan’s brother Penn offers to step into the betrothal. This is not a sacrifice for him, as he has always wanted Venus.
Complications are: He is 10 years younger, Venus isn’t accommodating, dragons are put down at age 35 if they are not mated, and Venus only has a few weeks left. Fast-paced, great world-building and romantic.
Probably more enjoyable if you’ve ready both stories, but a great read either way!
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
Story #1 in this series had Lachlan and Venus destined to an arranged mating. Neither really wanted the other. When Lachlan finds his fated mate, both are relieved. For story #2 Lachlan’s brother Penn offers to step into the betrothal. This is not a sacrifice for him, as he has always wanted Venus.
Complications are: He is 10 years younger, Venus isn’t accommodating, dragons are put down at age 35 if they are not mated, and Venus only has a few weeks left. Fast-paced, great world-building and romantic.
Probably more enjoyable if you’ve ready both stories, but a great read either way!
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
May 14, 2022
Book 2 in the Silver Dragon series did not disappoint. I was looking forward to Venus and Penn with the older woman younger man love story. Venus has some serious self-esteem issues while trying to figure out her place in the dragon world. After Deacon breaks their mate contract his brother Penn offers himself instead. He has had a long unrequited crush on Venus but she doesn’t want a marriage of obligation. The secondary part of the story we learn more about other Clan’s and Dragon politics. As the Silver brothers and Venus get dragged into a struggling clan that leads to some dangerous situations and complications to Penn and Venus relationship. I really love this world that Marie has created and I’m excited to see the other relationships that have been hinted about.
May 11, 2022
I loved this book. Penn and Venus come across as real people, which is something I enjoy in paranormal romances. Sometimes characters can be completely unreal with over the top, mystical problems that never happen to people in the real world. Venus and Penn have some dragon specific issues, but they also struggle with their careers and relationships. While the first book in this series focused mostly on introducing this world and the Silver Clan, this book opens up the world building and gives us a lot of information on dragon culture and how the different clans do things and view one another. This is an author who knows how to write strong women and, so far, all the women we've met have an inner strength along with their vulnerabilities. I am looking forward to the rest of this series and hope we get a ton of stories out of this world.
May 12, 2022
I like it!! The anticipation of the angst is right there from the beginning. There is also that moment when I feel like punching Penn Silver's face when asked if he would mate with Brighton if Venus does not accept him and he said yes. Yes???? Uugghh.. the emotion while reading this... !! 😆 This is a surprisingly quick read. The storyline is good and I love paranormal authors who can assimilate the elements without compromising the readers' logic and make it awkward and unbelievable. Ms Johnston writes beautiful stories and I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews