Giving the Dragon Freedom

Elemental Dragons #4

by Victoria Jayne

Nothing shatters the status quo like stumbling upon fate.

Happiness just wasn’t in the cards for Clara Stevens. She’d accepted that, and found her purpose in the Coalition for Light. When Makoa Hale attended a meeting, the hawk shifter did more than threaten her position within her community.

Makoa vowed to end the cult. Unfortunately, while undercover, the worst thing to do is mate the target of the investigation. The tempting dragon shifter could cost him this case and his career.

When the leadership discovers their bond, lives are put on the line. How was Makoa supposed to rescue Clara and bring down her organization at the same time?

Genres: Paranormal, Suspense

ebook

Published May 6, 2025

About the author

Victoria Jayne is the epitome of a Jersey Girl. She doesn’t [know how to] pump her own gas, enjoys pork roll, and grew up on the Jersey Shore.

She’s lived throughout the state of New Jersey and remains there with her sports journalist husband and two darling daughters.

When not writing, Victoria enjoys baking with her daughters, rooting for the New Jersey Devils, thinking of home improvement projects, and staying up far too late chatting on Discord.

Reviews

[Cate Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Enjoyed this next addition to this dragon shifter series. It wrapped up some plots nicely and brought in crossover characters that i look forward to reading about in her other series in the same universe. Definitely interested to see the internal conflicts some of the characters faced and how it contrasted sometimes with the favs we’ve come to love. I thought the author really hit on the cult part accurately enough it made me uncomfortable based on my own experiences. Definitely looking forward to see what the author adds on to this universe in the future and I plan on reading everything else she has in it to this point!

[💕📚Cassie📚💕 · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️read - 4.3🌶️spice

ARC REVIEW

My honest review and thoughts. Thank you for sending this arc to me I truly enjoyed going back to this world again it’s like getting to see and hang out with old friends 😍

Ahh! I absolutely love this universe and the characters. I knew I would like the vibes and the characters but I didn’t expect to love them so much! Trust me I mean that in a good way lol

This isn’t my first Victoria Jayne book And it’s not my last Victoria Jayne book I can’t wait to read more of her what she’s written

Giving the Dragon Freedom is about Makoa a hawk shake shifter and Clara a dragon shifter. Both of them come from two different worlds but are still supernatural This book/story is fast-paced it gets right to the point and gives you a supernatural feel With a mix of modern everyday life vibes.

There’s some spicy parts in this where it had me stop and go back to read it for a second time making sure I read it right lol honestly some stuff I read surprised me in the best possible way and I wouldn’t change it for nothing in the world lol I love when a book throws some surprises my way it’s the best experience

It’s dual pov so you get to experience things from both characters which I love it gives a sense of what’s going on with each of them and why. The more I read this the more I felt for Clara the things she’s been through made me feel like I wanna jump into this book and give her a hug her never letting go

Overall giving the Dragon Freedom is an amazing book. It’s an amazing story I absolutely loved reading this, especially the tiny cameos that popped up with the previous characters from other books made this even better.

——————————————
Full series thoughts/review

The world-building in this is easy to follow and keep up with such as it’s fast-paced and gives you details but still moves forward. Even 10 steps ahead the world-building in this doesn’t get difficult in any type of way the more you move forward there are little reminders of the world-building and what’s going on, so there’s no getting lost at least for me there wasn’t which I truly enjoyed.

I love book series that somehow intertwine with each other when it comes to different characters

( The Elemental Dragons Book series )

Is more so about the world-building of supernaturals and Shapeshifters along with magic and everything else in between which is amazing, the simplest way I could explain it. It’s like a light version of stepping into the fantasy world, which is great for readers that’s very deep into fantasy or just getting into fantasy. It’s very easy to read and very easy to keep up with before you know it you’ll be falling in love with each character.

The found family in this world is amazing. It’s like a group of different people that came together and made one big family that’s the easiest way. I could explain it without giving any spoilers in this review lol overall the series is packed with so much info. There’s character growth and so much more that goes with this series/book along with drama of all sorts.

Thanks again for the amazing opportunity to be an Arc reader for this amazing story. I can’t wait to read more of your books Victoria

[Brita Mackay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stumbling upon fate, it's the one thing that shatters the status quo like nothing else.

Clara Stevens knows that happiness was never something fate had in store for her. It had taken time, but she had come to terms with it, and slowly she had found her purpose in the Coalition for Light. It's when Makoa Hale attends a meeting, that the hawk shifter does more than threatens her position within her community.

Makoa has vowed that he is going to end the cult. Sadly while undercover, Makoa knows that the worst thing that he could do is to mate with the target of his investigation. But, the tempting dragon shifter could not only cost him in this case but also his career.

Leadership eventually discovers the bond between Makoa and Clara.

How is Makoa supposed to Clara and bring down her organization at the same time?

I have been reading this series since the first book and it was only the first book that was a bit shaky. Since that book, this series has only gotten better and better. I have been falling in love with all the characters in each of the books and this book is no different. And the characters in this book leave all the best vibes in the world and you just love these characters oh so much.

Giving the Dragon Freedom follows Makoa who is a hawk shifter and Clara a dragon shifter. They each come from different worlds and yet they are still both part of the supernatural world. And from the get-go go this is a fast-paced supernatural read that still gives you a feel of a bit of the modern everyday life vibes. And I absolutely love how Victoria Jayne gets right to the point and she doesn't play any games.

I did love how there are some spicy scenes in all the right places and honestly, there were some elements that kind of surprised me, but the surprise was all great and I wouldn't change anything, I love books that have surprises. Those are the best of experiences.

One of my favorite things in any book is when we get duel POVs. I love the way we get the opportunity to learn more about each character and this also allows us to see and understand what is going on with each character and why. There was so much I felt for Clara and everything that she's been through, I honestly just wanted to hug her, wrap her up in my arms and never let her go, protect her from all the hurts of life.

I have to say that Giving the Dragon Freedom is the perfect book with an amazing plot and I loved this story. I loved that we got little cameos from previous characters from the other books and that just enhanced the reading experience.

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Giving the Dragon Freedom," Victoria Jayne delivers an enthralling fourth installment in the Elemental Dragons series. The novel explores themes of duty, love, and sacrifice against a backdrop of magical intrigue and fierce loyalties.

Clara Stevens is a the MFC whose resilience shines throughout the book. As a devoted member of the Coalition for Light, Clara has dedicated her life to preventing darkness from taking hold. Her commitment is admirable, yet lonely, which heightens the impact of her eventual encounter with Makoa Hale, a hawk shifter with a mission. When they cross paths during a coalition meeting, their undeniable chemistry threatens to unravel their worlds.

Makoa is not only charismatic but also complex. He struggles between his duty to dismantle a dangerous cult and his growing feelings for Clara. The author skillfully navigates this tension, crafting a romance that feels genuine and layered. The stakes soar as Makoa's undercover investigation unfolds; the potential consequences of their bond introduce a gripping urgency.

The plot is well-paced, blending action with emotional depth. The author’s world-building remains immersive, allowing readers to fully engage with the elemental magic and the underlying conflicts of light versus dark. The tension escalates as the leadership of the Coalition becomes aware of Makoa and Clara's bond, leaving me on the edge of my seat.

One of the book's highlights is the author’s ability to convey the characters' internal struggles. Clara's journey of self-discovery, alongside Makoa’s dilemmas, adds depth and relatability. The supporting characters are also well-developed, contributing to the story's richness.

"Giving the Dragon Freedom" tackles the notion of sacrifice for love, making readers question what they would do in similar circumstances. The author’s writing is both engaging and evocative, ensuring each scene resonates with emotional authenticity.

Overall, this installment is a compelling blend of fantasy, romance, and suspense, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Victoria Jayne successfully captures the essence of conflict—both personal and external.
I can’t wait to see what comes next.

So, if you enjoy stories that intertwine magic with heartfelt connections, this book is sure to captivate you!

🦋
* I am leaving this review voluntarily after being sent a free book.

[Leti · Rating 4 out of 5]

💚💚💚

Thank you so much Victoria for sending me the fourth installment in your "Elemental Dragon" series!

I'm so happy of getting back to this magical world full of shifters, love, magic and more.

I have to be honest and say that when I first started to read this series I was a little out of it because I wasn't used to reading this kind of stories but once I started with "Giving the Dragon Fire" I got an amazing surprise that follow up with each of the books!

That said...Giving the Dragon Freedom is about our characters, Makoa a hawk shifter and the beauty Clara (a dragon shifter).

Makoa is supposed to be investigating Clara and the Coalition for Light she's part of, but let's just say that things happen and things get a little complicated.

Our FMC is one that I instantly loved. She was admirable, devoted and full of resilience...all things to be absolutely admired. And Makoa was just a really complex and charismatic character that I also fell in love with.

To see or well "read" how both characters navigated not only their growing feelings but the struggles that each of them had with their duties/lifes was absolutely beautiful and amazing.

This story had me in a shockhold and I just couldn't put it down. The stakes were high, the tension was sizzling, the romance was cheff kiss👩🏻‍🍳💋 and the worldbuilding was written in a way that had me completely submerged.

The way Victoria wrote the emotional parts and how they were handled was something that I really liked and apreciated.

It was fast-paced, easy to read, with a really engaging plot, amazing characters, some action and some spice, cameos of previous characters and overall a really amazing book.

If you want something with these be sure to pick this book👀

💚hawk shifter x dragon shifter
💚damsel in distress
💚cult
💚fated mates

Reading Order:
🔥Giving the Dragon Fire
❄️Giving the Dragon Ice
💧Giving the Dragon Water
💚Giving the Dragon Freedom

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG this was another great book. It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was so intense. This story was romance of passion with the lust of duty, love, and sacrifice against a backdrop of magical intrigue and fierce loyalties. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn't even put it down. It was addicted and you will be sucked right into this love affair. Now with Clara Stevens who has the power of using her abilities to be fiery the madness against her in being MFC whose resilience shines throughout the book. As been a powerful but devoted member of the Coalition for Light and now that Clara has to be dedicated to her life in preventing the darkness has taken a hold on her soul. She was commitment and admirable by other yet lonely which heightens the impact of her eventual encounter Now she ran into Makoa Hale, who was a hawk shifter who was a mission. So they had cross paths during a coalition meeting, their undeniable chemistry threatens to unravel their worlds. They was never meant to fall in love with each other in this moment. Love can be a dangerous game of passion and romance. Will they be a force of nature of beating the odds.
I highly recommend this book and you won't be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Trina Jones

[Ashley (andtheniwasbookish) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've enjoyed this entire series! What I've loved most is the variety of the storyline for each couple while also laying the groundwork for a plot that actually expands all 4 books.

This one was tougher than the rest, in a really vulnerable way. Each couple has dealt with their own issues, but Makoa and Clara had the Coalition of Light to deal with.

I will not put much in here because I do not want to spoil anything, but the grief that Clara experiences throughout the story feels so raw and real. My heart was hurting so much for her and then experiencing Makoa's point of view throughout made those feelings so much stronger.

The overall plot of this book was so brilliant. I love where it went and how it all happened. The build up over the course of the series was so complex and so when we got to meet some final characters it felt like it all came together.

I would highly recommend this series if you're looking for a fast-paced read with a lot of heart, as long as you're willing to work for that HEA

overall: recommend
spice: open door

[Book Snob Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story about 2 people getting a second chance at love and finding their fated mates. Makoa is the head of security for one of the only places where supernaturals can be themselves and not hide from humans, he goes undercover to try and take down a cult operation, the Coalition for Light, that wants to expose supernaturals to the world, and ends up finding his fated mate, Clara, who just so happens to be a high up member of the Coalition he’s helping take down…yup, it all gets a bit magically messy, and makes for a fast paced book that will suck you in like quicksand….you’re welcome.

Great fast paced storyline with a lot of what the moments, shifters, vampires and fae oh my. See what I did there…got your attention. And a couple with so much heat, that your pages are gonna be burning up, because fated mates can try and fight it, but that might last for literally a hot ass second. We get to see our favorites from the series, and gain some new favorites. A sweet and much deserved epilogue and hea.

[Nikki Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Makoa is the Chief of the security of a hidden island and a hawk shifter. He's part of the investigation into a cult that has abducted various shifters and seems to be centred on his island. He takes the place of an undercover operative when he's given a supernatural whammie and meets Clara, the enigmatic leader of the group.

Makoa and Clara, a dragon shifter, have more than shifter status in common. They are both in mourning for their chosen mates, who died decades ago. Clara fell into the cult, abandoning her family and Makoa bonded tighter to his sons and his work became his focus.

The grief suffered by both Makoa and Clara is handled so well and highlights the different ways there are to cope with the same emotion. There are strong found family vibes and the spice is strong but not over the top and doesn't get in the way of the mystery part of the storyline.

There are a few things which may make some readers uncomfortable: Dubious consent/abduction/mind control/toxic relationships/ S/A via manipulation/grief/trauma recovery

[Renee Entress · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star

This story has pain, fate, secrets, and steam. This book pulls in things from the other books in this series. If you only read this one you will miss some key points in the series and it does not wrap up the story as well.

If you have not read the below, I would highly recommend reading those books(s) first:
Giving The Dragon Fire (Elemental Dragons #1)
Giving the Dragon Ice (Elemental Dragons #2)
Giving the Dragon Water (Elemental Dragons #3)

This is Clara and Makoa’s story. She is a dragon shifter, and he is a hawk shifter. He is supposed to be investigating her but instead they mate. This could be the end of his career and maybe even him. These two need to figure out what is going on with the coalition before she is taken down in a trail. Emotions are high in this story so be prepared for them to spill over. Can they solve all the pieces and figure out what to do before they lose each other? Or will the trail make sure they don’t have a future?

I recommend this book.

[Madeline · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve read two other books in this series, and this one is my least favorite. It’s not bad by any means. It’s more that something feels missing from it. I felt like the plot was a little rushed, so we missed out on some things that would’ve really added to the story.

That being said, I’ll likely keep reading books from this world. They’re fun, simple, and full of spice, making them great pallet cleansers between the super heavy fantasy books I often read.

If you’re looking for a spicy, shorter, fantasy romance read, check this one out.

Note: while this book is connected to other books, you don’t have to read all books in the series. Just know that you can spoil past books if you read them out of order.

Thank you very much to Victoria Jayne for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and are not influenced by the manner in which I received it.

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐆𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦 is the 4th book in the Elemental Dragons series by Victoria Jayne, featuring a high drama paranormal romance for Makoa and Clara with lots of magical twists and turns, plenty of heat, and some resolutions to questions that have developed over the series. I enjoyed the surprises in the story, but despite having read every book in the series, there were still aspects that I didn’t fully understand or weren’t fully explained, creating a flow problem for me. It’s possible that other books by the author connect, but I’m not sure. Makoa and Clara had a compelling connection, fiery chemistry, and the way the paranormal aspects were woven into the story was great. It was a fun read, overall, that ties up some loose ends from the series nicely.

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Spunky N Sassy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Wow, what a story and such an incredible series. I have always been interested in reading shifter stories but this book was that and so much more. This story has shifters of all kinds, vampires, witches and fae all mixed in. This story is one of loss and second chances. Being a person who is a widow and has suffered the loss of her spouse, this story really touched me emotionally. The loss that both Clara and Mokoa faced really hit my heart. I loved this story and I couldn't put it down, so much so that I lost sleep so that I could continue the story. Victoria Jayne writes in a way that the reader is pulled into her world and I never wanted to leave. I highly recommend this book, series and author to anyone who wants an adventure they will never forget with characters that will enthrall you.

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited when I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

The one thing I enjoy most about this series is that the plot follows with multiple books, and in each book there is a beautiful amount of romance with an even amount of action to keep you reading.

Clara's grief throughout is heartbreaking, but I so appreciate the way Makoa handles it. He's so caring, attentive and loving toward her.

I was stoked to see where the story went in this book since we've following a lot of the Coalition of Light in the last few books. Multiple questions were answered throughout, and I didn't find any plot holes. I ended the epilogue happy with the outcome and not wondering if anything will happen next.

Thank you again, Victoria, for an eARC! I always look forward to enjoying your books 🥰

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic paranormal romance!
This is a beautiful story of two people who lost their spouses, recovered from their deaths, and found love again. Oh, and there's a cult determined to turn the human race into slaves!
The FMC is a lovely woman who has been struggling for decades with the loss of her spouse. She has found a group that has been her crutch, but is really doing her harm (and is a cult).
The MMC is a protective, driven man who steps into the outskirts of the cult to investigate and take it down.
There is an instant connection between the two and while a relationship is forbidden, they cannot stay away.
Together the two heal, find love again, and take down the cult in the process. A really enjoyable read, with complete characters and a very interesting plot. The paranormal creatures are a little different than the norm from the genre.

[Enelyae Is Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed Makoa and Clara’s story! There was so much at stake in this book and I could not put it down. I think it had the most tension and emotion out of the series and i highly enjoyed that. I honestly really liked the maturity of the characters in this book as these shifters were definitely older! 😉

My heart broke so much for Clara throughout this book! I loved seeing her realize what had been going on for years. Seeing her strength come through was absolutely inspiring! I really liked Mokoa as well. They complimented each other’s personalities so well that they may be one of my favourite couples! Loved their chemistry and everything between them was definitely passionate 😏!

Good story, good series, great characters, lots of tension and the emotion! Definitely would recommend reading this series!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️🌶️

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 4 of the series by Victoria Jayne and i love it. Clara and Makoa were made for each other, the only problem is the Coalition for Light. It's bad when you find out your fated Mate is on the wrong side of the law and you need to take the cult down. There are so many twist and turns, who's right who's wrong, but nothing comes between the attraction and love that blooms. Can their love help them stay together? Can they overcome the situation. Fae men and vampire woman trying to tear them apart. Trust issues, love, sizzling chemistry, and fear.
this should be on your TBR list if it isn't already.. Definitely worth the read.

[Lotty Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

🏝️ A R C • R E V I E W 🏝️
~
✩✩✩✩
🌶️🌶️
~
Giving the Dragon Freedom is the 4th book from the Elemental Dragons series by Victoria Jayne
~
Book 4 takes us on Clara’s and Makoa’s journey!
I was so excited to read more about Makoa after meeting him in Book 3!
~
What I loved about this book, is both Clara and Makoa are dealing with and have dealt with the loss of their chosen mates, and are both going through their individual lives hoping to remove that pain, when they happen upon each other.
~
The story was fast paced and was full of little twists and turns to keep you on yours toes. The world building was amazing as always and I loved the plot and both of the MCs journeys 🥰

[Mickey Flagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the fourth book in the Elemental Dragons Series. Makoa and Clara are clearly drawn. So is the Coalition of Light. Clara is sucked into believing things that shape her years of abuse and loneliness. When Makoa is undercover investing the Coalition, he meets Clara. Even the secondary characters (and appearances by leads in the previous books) are well-formed and vivid. As the drama escalates between these fated lovers, the reader is fully drawn in. A very good read and one of my favorites in the series.

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great continuation in the series. We are following Clara and Makoa and the events from the previous book with the Coalition of Light. I found Clara’s situation heartbreaking. Both of them losing their chosen mates years previous, neither think they will get another chance. I enjoy Makoa’s protectiveness and how no matter what he wants to support Clara. It is a fast paced read, lots of action with the fae and shifters. I’m sorry to see the end of this series. Can’t wait to read more from Victoria Jayne.

[Christina Yau · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this was an amazing read with world building and shifters! Dragons are one of my favorites so I knew I would love it... Clara our fmc a dragon shifter has some challenges and I felt her down to my core... Makoa a hawk snake shifter which was super unique and I loved this whole book. I did feel a little lost as I realized far too late this is part of an interconnected world and I feel if I had read the previous books first it would have been so so much more! Which I now plan to do so I get the whole world experience. I loved that the dual POV's and the fast paced plot!

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story! Poor Clara thought she was doing a good thing, but some very evil people kept her in the dark and used her for their own purpose. Little did Makoa know he would find his mate at a meeting. Clara was in danger but could Makoa save her. What happened to her dragon? Once you start this book, you won't be able to put it down! It has plenty of twists to keep you reading and has a great finish.

[DeAnna Beeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The emotional roller-coaster this book took me on was truly a fantastic ride. I don't know how my heart handled it.

Clara and Makoa are fated mates who both lost their chosen mates many years ago and finally meet by chance.

The problem? She works for the coalition of light, and he's on a mission to destroy them.

"Destiny wouldn't bring them together just to rip them apart."

Or would it?

I guess you'll have to read to find out.

[Steve Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this book last night, and it was really good. I did think some of the spicier scenes were a bit unnecessary, but over all, I found the book enjoyable.

The dynamic between the female main character (Clara) and the male main character (Makoa) was good, as well as the inclusion of Trinity and Aspen. And this glimpse into the fantasy realm is really good.

If you're into spicy fantasy with romance elements, this book is for you.

[Monika · Rating 5 out of 5]

My honest thoughts, with every book I read in this series, the better they get. I really enjoyed reading Makoa and Clara’s story and fate’s mysterious ways of giving.
I also enjoy the way that other characters from previous books are always reintroduced it’s great. They are all good standalone books, but well worth reading them all in a row, great for the backstory if you do. Happy reading:)

[Gabi · Rating 5 out of 5]

All good things come to those who wait, right? A story of finding one's mate, freeing them from the things that hold them back.

Love a good paranormal/fantasy/shifter story and this one hits all the spots for me!

[Marianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good paranormal romance.. Intense, interesting, and emotional..

[Brandy B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victoria has done it again. I couldn't put this down. The Emotions this story had me feeling was a ride, but so worth it.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an emotional rollercoasterbut the end made the ride worth it. There was a lot of emotional trauma between both sides, but they worked together and overcome her problems it's a good book

[Kandace_Bookaholic_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way I DEVOUR her books!! They are addicting and you cant put them down! Love her work!