Escape from Faerie

The Dragon Portal #0.5

by Jamie A. Waters

The Hunt begins the moment blood is spilled...
The Unseelie queen is dead—murdered before Sabine’s eyes. And the princess is the one being hunted for the crime.

Sabin’theoria, heir to the Unseelie throne, never expected to watch her mother die beneath the shadowed boughs of the Silver Forest. But truth and illusion twist together, and whispers of regicide spread faster than fire.

Betrayal in Faerie always comes at a deadly price...

Pursued by the Wild Hunt and betrayed by her own people, Sabine has only one run. Every step beyond Faerie’s borders carries her closer to exile, but also deeper into a deadly game of vengeance and lies.

Because no one dares accuse the Seelie king of murder and survives long enough to tell the tale.

Genres: Fantasy

122 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 19, 2026

About the author

Follow me:



Jamie A. Waters is an award-winning fantasy romance author and dragon enthusiast. Weaving together magic, intrigue, and some delicious romance, she creates memorable and immersive worlds that provide the perfect escape. Her books feature strong, spunky heroines and their swoon-worthy heroes who will stop at nothing to save the day.

Sign up for her newsletter for all the latest information and get a FREE book: www.jamieawaters.com/newsletter-signup

Reviews

[Chezza's life · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Arc review*

Awww love this one, it's the back story for our FMC

So young to have to face what she does, but does it with gusto.
I did read this after the first book and highly recommend reading it that way.

Thank you to the book sirens and the author for the eArc

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great prequel. It started off slow but then moved at a good pace. I would love to continue the series to learn more about the magic. I can’t wait to read more from the series.

[Ginny Wallis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this prequel based upon the blurb for this book only, I havent read any of the series or even have them on my TBR list. But they definitely are now!

This is a really short book anyway, but I devoured it in a couple of hours. From the first chapter I was gripped. I loved that I was straight into the world, there wasn't any soft launch into the world and characters, no tiptoeing around the drama. This book packs in the story telling in such few pages.

I was expecting to feel a bit lost, I just get to know the main character, everything else to feel a bit out of place, out of contex, to me.

That was not the case at all. The world, the characters, their lore and traditions, everything was described in such a way that you feel you've known them for years. But its not over explained, you as the reader are trusted to understand which I really appreciate.

Not only am I in absolute desperate need to know what happens to the main characters that were there from page one, but also the newer character that are only introduced just a few chapters from the end! The talent and writing knowledge of the author really shows in their ability to build the relationship between reader and characters in such a short amount of time.

I have book 1 ready and waiting on my kindle already, and I have a feeling this is going to be a favourite series of mine.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Twinkle.butt.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Every time I feel her magic or get my hands on her”… yeah, that line alone should tell you this book is about to ruin your peace in the best way possible.

Let me start by saying—I am HOOKED. Like, cancel-my-plans, ignore-my-responsibilities hooked. From the moment we’re dropped into Faerie, the tension is already simmering, and it only gets messier from there.

We kick things off with her brother choosing to turn his back on his Unseelie side to join the Seelie court (rude, suspicious, and emotionally loaded). Then—boom—there’s a weird bomb situation, an eerie atmosphere that never lets you relax, and the creeping sense that something is very, very wrong. And just when you think it can’t get darker? Her mother is dead. Her father wants her dead. Casual family drama, right?

The chemistry? Deliciously dangerous. The magic? Tempting and volatile. The vibes? Dark, seductive, and slightly unhinged in the best way. That quote about bonding and power? Yeah… it lives rent-free in my head.

By the end, I was left staring at the page like, “EXCUSE ME?? That’s it???” I need answers. I need consequences. I need the next book immediately.

If you like fae politics, morally gray characters, dark magic, and a story that slowly wraps its claws around you—Escape from Faerie is absolutely for you.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Colette · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ARC Review

Escape From Faerie is a captivating prequel that sets the stage beautifully for The Dragon Portal Series. This story follows Sabine, an Unseelie princess destined to inherit the throne—until whispers of a dangerous conspiracy begin to unravel everything she thought she knew. When betrayal creeps closer to home, Sabine is forced to make an impossible choice that will change her fate forever.

The author paints an intricate and immersive portrait of fae royalty, balancing elegance with danger. The worldbuilding flows effortlessly, drawing readers into a realm of ancient rituals, complex family dynamics, and layered political intrigue. Every chapter deepens the tension, and the emotional stakes continue to rise as Sabine navigates loyalty, power, and survival.

Fans of beloved fantasy tropes will find much to enjoy here, including:
• The Chosen One
• Lost Heir vs. Hidden Royalty
• Mentor Sacrifice
• Morally Grey Protagonist
• Touch Her and Die
• Betrayal by Trusted Allies

As a prequel, Escape From Faerie succeeds in both standing on its own and enhancing anticipation for the series that follows. The cast of characters—fae, pixies, brownies, shapeshifters, and more—adds richness and charm to an already compelling narrative.

Although I received this book as an ARC, it genuinely sparked my excitement for The Dragon Portal Series. This is a strong introduction to an enchanting and perilous world, and I can’t wait to see where Sabine’s journey leads next.

✨ Highly recommended for fans of fae politics, dark magic, and emotionally charged fantasy adventures. ✨

[Katharina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escape from Faerie is the prequel to the Dragon Portal series by Jamie A. Waters. It's set 10 years before the first book in the series and shows the captivating backstory of Sabine. After Sabines mother, the unseelie queen is murdered right before Sabines eyes, she has to flee Faerie to hide from the Wild Hunt and the Fae who betrayed her.
Escape from Faerie is an interesting prequel with a suspenseful story and the great characters we know from the main series. It's super cool to finally read Sabines backstory. It felt like I was pulled back into the world instantly and I am super hyped for the series to continue!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Beba Andric]

I was extremely delighted to see there was a prequel, an insight into one of my favourite characters, Sabine and what had transpired to where and what she is now. A Fae, living in the human world, with 2 demon prince protectors, a snarky witch and a very exuberant pixie!

True to Jamie style, there's no pussyfooting around, she plunges right into ALL the feels. Her writing style is so captivating, I find it difficult to put down. Heck, I honestly wasn't expecting so much clarity and so much fullness to a novella, but, oh yes, Jamie did so and she did so superbly! Starting with Sabine being subjected to off the charts pain, I could feel the needles piercing MY skin! Jamie's world building is vibrant, descriptively "in your face" one can't help but feel it, it sinks in immediately, relentlessly, with an ease I'm always surprised by.

Sabine, as I mentioned, is a terrific character. I do so love that Jamie explores her thoughts, so proficiently, you know exactly what's going on with her. I get to see her values, her insecurities, her strength, her love for her brother and her dismay. Oh yes, there was plenty of dismay! The Seelie and Unseelie courts are divided, but, unusually, Sabine has both running through her veins and neither court is thrilled about that. So much so, she's seen as a threat to be eliminated, by whom, well... just about everyone! There are schemes in place, there is political manipulation and each revelation shocks Sabine to the core. But, she sees it, rebels against it, as much as she can in this very deadly court, "I am whole enough to recognize a blade dressed in silk".

Magically powerful Sabine is fierce, is loving, is compassionate, always having to navigate the Unseelie court by concealing her emotions, which are perceived as weaknesses. Only a handful are privvy to the real Sabine, who are fiercely loyal to her, who'll go to any lengths to protect her. One of those is Balkin, a Beastman who's unquestionably protectively loyal, and the coolest ever! When things go belly up, badly, he whisks Sabine away, much to her distress. But she's also pragmatic, she realises the truth behind the events, the truth behind Balkin's words, and thus a new reality is cast for Sabine. Which has her questioning even more, notably to conceal her magic, "Without her magic, she was nothing." Or so she assumes.

Oh my did I love meeting Dax and Bane and Esme! Oh my heck, and the delightful Blossom too! I love how Jamie infused heat and humour into the characters, I was equally ready to jump Dax as I was to giggle at Blossom. I do know them, having read the series, I love them to bits but Jamie really captures their distinct personalities, well, distinctly! All the characters are distinct, and cool, although, some let off the "hmmm, not sure vibe" Rhys primarily, he's Sabine's "weaker" twin, the two of them had a plan, an agreement, but...yes, loads of buts! And Tarron, shoo, he's mighty fine, to look at, as well as mighty in his protection of Sabine. But he harbours something he shouldn't. I wasn't sure whether to feel sorry for him or annoyed. Then there's Usagi, amazing, supportive, insightful. We even get a taste of Malik and Levin, and so help me, had I not read the series, I'd be running to one click it! In fact, this amazing prequel has whet my appetite to reread the series...

[Blessed Brushstrokes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Hidden Realms Publishing for this ARC


Escape from Faerie is the prequel to the Dragon Portal series, which starts with To Kill A Fae. This is a quick read but thoroughly enjoyable.
This story follows Sabine, heir to the Unseelie Courts throne, who must flee Faerie after treacherous actions of others put her at risk. Her loyal beastman, a lion shifter, whisks her away to an abandoned human cottage to hide her and introduces her to a trio of teachers who will help her hone her skills for when the time comes to reclaim her rightful place. These teachers are two demon princes and a half dread witch named Esme.
I haven't read the rest of the series, but I am intrigued after reading this story. I had no problem following the plot or the characters - even without the additional information from the earlier written books, which I appreciated. There is nothing worse than diving into a prequel or novella and being completely lost if you haven't read the series first. The author also plops us right into the storyline and trusts the readers to be smart enough to follow along, which is always a promising sign of a good storyteller. I have a feeling this would have been even more enjoyable if I did know these character's stories already- something tells me fans will get a kick out of Blossom's appearance, as I did without knowing her role in the series.
I also really like the liveliness of Esme, and what I did learn of her story made me want to follow the series and see if her story is a more completely told tale.
Though this is a prequel and a short read, I felt satisfied at the point it wrapped up at. The author gave readers enough detail to enjoy the current story and just enough hints to make us curious to find out more.

I will be following up with Sabine, Blossom, and Esme by diving into the Dragon Portal series because of Escape to Faerie, and I think soon-to-be-fans will do the same.

[Melanie Deal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished Escape From Faerie (releasing February 19, 2026), by Jamie A. Waters. This is a prequel to The Dragon Portal Series.

Summary:
This prequel introduces us to Sabine, an Unseelie princess who is next in line for the throne. Her life seems set until the unimaginable happens – her mother murdered by the Seelie while she looks on helplessly, hidden in the shadows. When she realizes she was betrayed by someone in her court and that the Seelie are now looking for her to meet the same fate as her mother, Sabine makes the impossible choice to flee.

Truth and illusion become twisted, and the Seelie make it seem as if Sabine murdered her mother. The further Sabine gets from Faerie, she becomes closer to exile, as well as being pulled towards a deadly game of vengeance and lies.

My Thoughts
The author does an amazing job of creating a world of fae royalty that is as dangerous as it is elegant. It pulled me right into a realm of ancient rituals and messy family dynamics. I loved how the tension built in every chapter—you can really feel the emotional stakes rising as Sabine tries to navigate loyalty and survival.

What really stood out to me was the portrayal of the Seelies and Unseelies. It felt so fresh and different from the usual "norm" you see in fae folklore. Plus, the supporting cast—pixies, brownies, and shapeshifters—adds so much richness and charm to the story.

I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) from Book Sirens. Full disclosure: I actually haven’t read any of the first four books in this series yet! But honestly, this prequel was such a great introduction that I’m now planning to go back and read the entire series from the beginning.

If you’re a fan of faerie folklore and immersive fantasy, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR list! I give this 4.25 out of 5 stars.

[Lilith's_Library_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

scape from Faerie is a tense, shadow-heavy journey through a fae realm that is as beautiful as it is merciless. Jamie A. Waters strips away any romantic notions of Faerie, revealing a world built on manipulation, cruelty, and broken promises where escape is never simple—and freedom always has a cost.

The atmosphere is thick with unease, making every step through Faerie feel dangerous. The fae are clever, predatory, and bound by rules designed to entrap rather than protect. The constant psychological tension keeps the story moving, and the sense of being hunted never truly fades. Survival depends not just on strength, but on wit, sacrifice, and the willingness to lose pieces of yourself.

Some plot elements will feel familiar to dark fae readers, but the execution remains gripping and emotionally charged. The stakes feel personal, and the consequences of every choice linger long after they’re made.

A strong four-star read for those who crave dark fae stories, perilous bargains, and worlds that don’t want you to leave once they’ve claimed you. 🖤🧚‍♂️

[Rosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Escape from Faerie is a prequel novella that proves short doesn’t mean shallow. This is a quick, easy read (I devoured it in a matter of hours) that still manages to deliver solid worldbuilding, character setup, and just enough intrigue to hook you completely. As an introduction to The Dragon Portal series, this novella does exactly what it should…and then some. We learn the origins of the FMC, Sabine, an unseelie fae Princess and get our first taste of the world she comes from, along with introductions to several key characters. We meet two demon brothers, a witch and Blossom, the spunky pixie who immediately steals page time and my whole heart. What I love to hate about this novella is how effective it is. I finished it and immediately realized I now have a brand new series to obsess over. I was desperately searching for fan art while also aggressively trying not to spoil the entire series for myself…an impossible balance, honestly. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lexie Parizek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I signed up for the arc of this prequel because the story sounded good and I wanted to read more. I haven’t read anything from The Dragon Portal series yet. But I am so glad I got to start with this book.
Reading this prequel might be a little different for someone who’s already read the book series but from me, someone who has not, it pulled me in. It completely caught my attention and makes me want to read the series so that I can see what happens next.
The FMC is so strong and brave, I want to go along with her for her journey. I’m excited to see what characters I might see in the actual series and what part they play.
If you like fantasy and a little bit of mystery, where the FMC has to go on a journey and learn her magic in order to become the strongest version of herself that she can be then this is the book for you.

Thank you Jamie A. Waters and Booksprout for the early copy - all opinions are my own!

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where it all begins ! Sabine is the heir to the Unseelie crown but in many ways a pawn . Desperate to prove she’s worthy but naturally wary of those around who would usurp her if they can . When her mother is murdered it would seem to others that Sabine might be her killer and so she has allies who help her escape from Faerie until she’s strong enough to return and claim her birthright.
This prequel sets in motion the journey that Sabine and her friends will take in subsequent adventures . Most importantly it allows readers to find out how powerful Demons , a mischievous Pixie and a fledgling Witch come into her life . Yes it’s short and perhaps I wanted more interaction with the Demon brothers ( ok a lot more! ) but it was very entertaining and I feel definitely wets the readers appetite for more in this series.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy meaning my thoughts and opinions are my own .

[Gothicc Library | Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, although it was packed with action and hints to potential lore about the characters, it still felt cosy in a way. I'm not too sure how to explain it!

Because this is a prequel, it was quite fast paced and I found it a tad difficult to build the world and figure out the politics with the limited information. But I got the basics and I'm excited to jump straight into the series to learn more. I do really like the FMC in this one, she's very loyal, passionate and seems so strong from the jump, even before fully embracing her true potential. I did drop a star because the character names are quite a lot to remember and I found it hard keeping track of who was who but as I read the rest of the series, I'm sure this will improve.

Blossom has my heart already, I adore her! I hope she sticks around for the remainder of the series!

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC of this book. The review and the opinions offered are mine, given willingly and voluntarily.

Escape from Faerie was a great prequel to a series I can't wait to sink my teeth into.

A future queen with the blood of both courts surrounded by people scheming to overthrow or use her. I loved not knowing who could be trusted along with the frustration our FMC feels needing being the epitome of grace and power when she's literally dying on the inside.

The betrayals, the scheming, the secrets -- so much was packed into this book.

Her new companions are interesting. Her new friend was delightful.

This novella offered all the best parts faerie has to offer.

[Soha Amer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escape from Faerie is a whimsical yet unsettling journey into a world that is as beautiful as it is dangerous. Jamie A. Waters blends classic fae folklore with emotional tension, creating a story that feels both magical and quietly dark. Faerie isn’t a place of wish-fulfillment here—it’s a realm of bargains, consequences, and survival.

The pacing keeps the story engaging, and the atmosphere does most of the heavy lifting, pulling you into a world where nothing is quite what it seems. While some moments lean more on mood than action, the sense of unease and wonder remains consistent throughout. It’s a thoughtful fantasy that will appeal to readers who enjoy folklore-inspired worlds with sharp edges.

[Amber Viera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC reader. 💙💙💙

I was immediately drawn into this story from chapter 1.
Sabine is the unseelie princess on the run because she is blamed for her mother's murder. She has to be taken out of Faerie to survive and learn how to be human. Along this journey you are given but a taste of this world Sabine lives in before you are quickly whisked away, which ultimately leaves you craving more. I just have to know what happens to her next! This is definitely one of my favorite reads this year and I can't wait to see where this story leads.

My favorite part of this story is that you can absolutely tell there is a lot going on here and that Sabine is a deep character in and of herself. I know this is a prequel, and I haven't read anything more if it has been written yet, but I and so excited to check it out!

Definitely give this a read!

[Sharmaigne (sips.and.stacks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great Prequel/novella.

I usually struggle with Novellas because they're so short that you're left wanting. I have not read any books in this series yet, but I didn't feel confused or out of place reading this novella.

Escape from Faerie, strips away that soft, magical view you tend to have with the Fae, and brings you a full court of nightmares with shadows, teeth, political plotting, violence, and tension.

Jamie does a fantastic job of making you root for the characters in just a few short pages. I can't wait to see how this all unfolds and to learn more about the character introduced at the very end.

[Kyla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is a prequel for The Dragon Portal series and from the very first page I was hooked. This author has a very good way with words and descriptions that pull you right into the story. We are following the story of Sabine who is heir of the Unseelie Court. She finds herself thrust into a conspiracy that challenges everything that she's ever known. Now she must find a way to live and survive in an unknown world until she can one day take back her kingdom.

I was not expecting to fall in love with this little book but oh how I did. I will most definitely be reading book 1 in this series very soon.

[Gail Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this from the author. This is my honest review.

As a prequel to a series that I have not yet read I wasn’t sure that I would understand where the characters were coming from. Fortunately for me, this author has such a way with words that I was immediately pulled into the story.

In a world of magic and warring nations, Sabine must escape from Faerie until she is older and learns how to use the magic that has been inked into her skin.

This prequel tells the story of the dangers that she faces before and during that escape.

I am looking forward to reading more of this series.

[Nicki.Mitchell.Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escape from Faerie was a fun, quick fantasy read with just the right mix of magic, tension, and adventure.

Sabine is an easy character to root for — smart, determined, and not perfect, which I appreciated. The faerie world was vivid without being overwhelming, and I never felt lost even though this was my first book in this universe.

The pacing kept things moving, and I was genuinely curious to see how things would play out. While some parts felt familiar if you read a lot of fantasy, it didn’t take away from the enjoyment.

Overall, this was an enjoyable prequel that works well as a standalone and left me interested in checking out the rest of the series. A solid four-star read for me

[HfbR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Sabine, an Unseelie princess and heir to the throne. When Sabine follows her mother into the woods one evening, the last thing she expects to find is her mother’s dead body………

This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I’m so delighted to have come across them. The writing style is great, the world building flows effortlessly, and there’s so much detail included that you never have to wonder if you’ve missed something important. It’s a prequel to the Dragon Portal Series, so I’m really looking forward to starting on the main series next 🐈‍⬛

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great prequel to the Dragon Portal series and enjoyed the epic fantasy element that I was looking for and enjoyed getting to go on this fantasy adventure and thought the overall feel worked. The characters were so well written and thought it worked well as a introduction to this world and characters. Jamie A. Waters has a strong writing style and was glad I was able to read this and can't wait for more in this series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Miranda Hawkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This prequel pulled me in immediately, and I ended up finishing it in one sitting. It offers just the right amount of background insight into the FMC, helping readers understand how the story is set to begin and the circumstances she finds herself in. The pacing was engaging, the storytelling flowed beautifully and every chapter felt purposeful. This prequel does an excellent job of setting the foundation for the series and prepares readers to fully appreciate where the journey is headed. I’m genuinely excited to see how the series unfolds.

[Skylar Keeton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc Review
Escape From Faerie by Jamie A. Waters
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Than you ARC provided by Xpresso Book Tours| Hidden Realms Publishing for providing this book for review purposes via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This was a fantastic intro to the series!! I can't wait to read the rest of the books and learn more about the magic!!!
I was left reeling with the way this prequel ended like I need more, I need my questions answered, I need to know what happens next!?!?!?
The rest of the series is now on my TBR or gonna be added when they are published!!!!
#EscapefromFaerie #NetGalley.

[Jenny P]

This is a quick, but insightful prequel to Jamie Water's Dragon Portal series.
Sabine flees after the murder of her mother, the Unseelie Queen, and is hunted while being accused of regicide. Her only ally is a beastman named Balkin, who is able to turn into a lion. She poses as a human to hide until she is strong enough to claim her throne. The story is filled with betrayal and is the perfect appetizer to the rest of the series.

[Cheryl devine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was an easy, smooth read with chapters that weren’t too long, always a win. The characters were immediately likeable, and I especially appreciated that the author shortened the names so readers didn’t need a pronunciation guide or a spelling cheat sheet.

The plot was captivating and kept me engaged throughout. I’ve already got the next book as an ARC and will be diving straight in, no hesitation needed.

[Valorie J. Diamond · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say that I absolutely love Sabine and Blossom! Well I also love Dax! Ok, ok I love all the characters!! The world building could use a little work ( thus 4 stars) but everything else had me glued! Finished in two hours!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barb Morales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, I’m in! I haven’t read any of this series so this is my first introduction into this world and I’m hooked! It has high fantasy, an FMC coming into her strength, a little slow burn intrigue, danger, and some cute side characters that I’m excited to learn more about. Excuse me while I make this my whole personality and read the rest of the series….

[Tamika Strijbos · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read, especially towards the end. I particularly loved the training scene with both demons and Sabine. I will certainly read the rest of the series, and get to know more of the characters and secrets hidden in the pages of this story.

Thank you netgalley and the author for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.