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Dance with the Devil #4.5
Risk It All
Kipling doesn't regret murdering his Alpha. Anything is better than continuing to live as a roughskin, subjected to brutal pit fights and abuse day after day. But constantly running for his life, always looking over his shoulder, and having nowhere to call home isn't much better.
When he finds an abandoned cabin in the mountains, it seems the ideal place to hide until his pack gives up the search. All he needs is supplies, and a quick trip into town should take care of that. Instead of supplies, however, he encounters Tori, who seems like everything Kipling has ever wanted—and far too good to be true.
And if Tori's not a trap then he, and his beautiful dragons, are just one more obstacle to be taken down by Kipling's pack.
When he finds an abandoned cabin in the mountains, it seems the ideal place to hide until his pack gives up the search. All he needs is supplies, and a quick trip into town should take care of that. Instead of supplies, however, he encounters Tori, who seems like everything Kipling has ever wanted—and far too good to be true.
And if Tori's not a trap then he, and his beautiful dragons, are just one more obstacle to be taken down by Kipling's pack.
68 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2015
16 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Megan Derr
284 books2,948 followersMegan is a long time resident of queer romance and keeps herself busy reading and writing it. She is often accused of fluff and nonsense. When she’s not involved in writing, she likes to cook, harass her wife and cats, or watch movies. She loves to hear from readers and can be found all over the internet.
meganderr.com
patreon.com/meganderr
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facebook.com/meganaprilderr
meganaderr@gmail.com
@meganaderr
meganderr.com
patreon.com/meganderr
meganderr.blogspot.com
facebook.com/meganaprilderr
meganaderr@gmail.com
@meganaderr
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
July 18, 2015
3.5 stars
Risk It All is a novella set in the "Dance With the Devil" universe. At first, the tag "polyamory" made me a bit reluctant -- I admit I'm a vanilla in terms of sex partners, I prefer only two person involved. But, I was intrigued with the beautiful dragons, plus this was only around 24,000 words. So I gave it a plunge :). Considering I have a bad memory for details, I have to dig a little deeper to remember the players. While it can be read as stand-alone, I still prefer to get clues about the characters in previous book.
Kipling is Peyton's partner who murdered their Alpha and his Candidates as told by Peyton in Ruffskin ("Kipling was his name. We killed the Alpha and the Candidates. All of them. Then we ran. Kipling went one way; I went another."). While Tori is a little bit difficult for me to remember. Apparently, Torvald "Tori" one of Cross brothers mentioned in Sword of the King; I have not read that one.
I really liked this -- polyamory and all. Kipling broke my heart -- his loneliness, his pain, just made me want to hug him bad. Tori is an Owner of two dragons and he is basically an Alpha as well. They just fit -- Tori wants to take care of Kipling and Kipling, in his wolf nature, really wants to belong -- and in some sense, to serve and submit. I didn't really mind the polyamory scenes; they were between Kipling, Tori, and the dragons. Again, it fit with their nature and the way they are taking care of each other. Besides, the dragons are cute (*lol*).
I didn't really like the quick turnabout of their relationship, though. I guess I always want a relationship to happen more than several days. That's just how I like it.
Risk It All is a novella set in the "Dance With the Devil" universe. At first, the tag "polyamory" made me a bit reluctant -- I admit I'm a vanilla in terms of sex partners, I prefer only two person involved. But, I was intrigued with the beautiful dragons, plus this was only around 24,000 words. So I gave it a plunge :). Considering I have a bad memory for details, I have to dig a little deeper to remember the players. While it can be read as stand-alone, I still prefer to get clues about the characters in previous book.
Kipling is Peyton's partner who murdered their Alpha and his Candidates as told by Peyton in Ruffskin ("Kipling was his name. We killed the Alpha and the Candidates. All of them. Then we ran. Kipling went one way; I went another."). While Tori is a little bit difficult for me to remember. Apparently, Torvald "Tori" one of Cross brothers mentioned in Sword of the King; I have not read that one.
I really liked this -- polyamory and all. Kipling broke my heart -- his loneliness, his pain, just made me want to hug him bad. Tori is an Owner of two dragons and he is basically an Alpha as well. They just fit -- Tori wants to take care of Kipling and Kipling, in his wolf nature, really wants to belong -- and in some sense, to serve and submit. I didn't really mind the polyamory scenes; they were between Kipling, Tori, and the dragons. Again, it fit with their nature and the way they are taking care of each other. Besides, the dragons are cute (*lol*).
I didn't really like the quick turnabout of their relationship, though. I guess I always want a relationship to happen more than several days. That's just how I like it.
May 3, 2019
3.5 stars
March 5, 2023
Reread 03/2023
I needed some fluff and Megan Derr is usually the perfect choice for me 😊
I needed some fluff and Megan Derr is usually the perfect choice for me 😊
October 10, 2021
3.5
Megan Derr has always been my guilty pleasure read. Not that I'veever felt particularly guilty reading her books but it somehow feels like I should.
It's not that I don't recognise the flaws, it's that they really really don't hinder the stories for me. The stories read like fairy tales and even the questionable behaviour (especially in this series - issues like (not bothering with) consent and stalkerish behaviour in the first books) while not seeming as cute on a reread... well, they didn't throw me off the stories. I see the new stories rewriting worldbuilding from the previous ones, I raise my eyebrows and move on. I realise they might be a little bit not good on a number of levels, but I still enjoy them, all right? They're tasty.Like junk food, probably.
So that said, Dance with the Devil is one of my favourite Megan Derr series. I enjoy catching up with - and going back to - Chris and Sable, Grim and Johnnie, Jesse and Rostya & co. I'm hoping Caedda (and that Alucard, what was his name)'s story will be told eventually. I'm looking forward to the other Cross brothers' stories. Basically, I'm pretty fond of this world. :D
This story was a nice addition. I enjoyed Kipling's journey and I happily revisited the whole series.
Megan Derr has always been my guilty pleasure read. Not that I'veever felt particularly guilty reading her books but it somehow feels like I should.
It's not that I don't recognise the flaws, it's that they really really don't hinder the stories for me. The stories read like fairy tales and even the questionable behaviour (especially in this series - issues like (not bothering with) consent and stalkerish behaviour in the first books) while not seeming as cute on a reread... well, they didn't throw me off the stories. I see the new stories rewriting worldbuilding from the previous ones, I raise my eyebrows and move on. I realise they might be a little bit not good on a number of levels, but I still enjoy them, all right? They're tasty.
So that said, Dance with the Devil is one of my favourite Megan Derr series. I enjoy catching up with - and going back to - Chris and Sable, Grim and Johnnie, Jesse and Rostya & co. I'm hoping Caedda (and that Alucard, what was his name)'s story will be told eventually. I'm looking forward to the other Cross brothers' stories. Basically, I'm pretty fond of this world. :D
This story was a nice addition. I enjoyed Kipling's journey and I happily revisited the whole series.
June 20, 2025
More a 2.5
Maybe I would of enjoyed this one more if I'd re read some of the earlier ones. But to be honest this felt more like an excuse for a sexfest than an actual story.
The little bits of story were interesting and Siege and Perilous were adorable. But I was left pretty unsatisfied with this one.
ETA OK Still more sex than story for my taste, but that said I did enjoy Kiplings story when we got it. Maybe this is more a 3 star after all
ETA As above
Maybe I would of enjoyed this one more if I'd re read some of the earlier ones. But to be honest this felt more like an excuse for a sexfest than an actual story.
The little bits of story were interesting and Siege and Perilous were adorable. But I was left pretty unsatisfied with this one.
ETA OK Still more sex than story for my taste, but that said I did enjoy Kiplings story when we got it. Maybe this is more a 3 star after all
ETA As above
February 20, 2024
Good, although I skimmed through sex scenes because the MC was not my favorite kind of character and the love interest wasn't much better -- this isn't the fault of the story, just a me thing -- and I was more interested in how things would resolve than in multi-species sex. IMHO, this felt like a setup for the next book's plot, which is fine. Onward, then. :)
November 27, 2019
Felt more like erotica. Also one of the MC self deprecation was annoying
October 31, 2022
Re Read 2022
Still enjoyable addition to the series, and read in this order a good introduction to the US clans
Review Copy from Netgalley
Great instalment to one of my favourite Series.
I enjoyed this one more than the last dragon book in this series “Sword of the King”
Kipling Blue is on the run from his pack after killing the Alpha and a number of contenders. Kipling was put into the pits as a “roughskin” at the age of 15 after the deaths of his parents. He has never known any love or affection and doesn’t believe he is worthy of any either. When we meet Kipling he has just discovered a rundown shack that he is going to hide in for the winter, believing if he could just hide from the pack for a couple of years, they would eventually forget about him.
In town for the day he runs into Tori, an owner of two dragons. Tori is everything Kipling has ever wanted. After spending the night together Kipling disappears back to the shack where Tori’s dragons find him a couple of weeks later.
Both Tori and Kipling are outcasts of their people, and there is a little bit of action near the end, but this book is mainly about the relationship between the guys and the dragons, and the good times had by all. Kipling took a bit of time to understand his worth and what he brings into the relationship.
The dragons – Siege and Perilous are great. They are cute, sexy, playful, possessive, loyal and when required vicious. Not to mention Twins, so double the trouble!
Still enjoyable addition to the series, and read in this order a good introduction to the US clans
Review Copy from Netgalley
Great instalment to one of my favourite Series.
I enjoyed this one more than the last dragon book in this series “Sword of the King”
Kipling Blue is on the run from his pack after killing the Alpha and a number of contenders. Kipling was put into the pits as a “roughskin” at the age of 15 after the deaths of his parents. He has never known any love or affection and doesn’t believe he is worthy of any either. When we meet Kipling he has just discovered a rundown shack that he is going to hide in for the winter, believing if he could just hide from the pack for a couple of years, they would eventually forget about him.
In town for the day he runs into Tori, an owner of two dragons. Tori is everything Kipling has ever wanted. After spending the night together Kipling disappears back to the shack where Tori’s dragons find him a couple of weeks later.
Both Tori and Kipling are outcasts of their people, and there is a little bit of action near the end, but this book is mainly about the relationship between the guys and the dragons, and the good times had by all. Kipling took a bit of time to understand his worth and what he brings into the relationship.
The dragons – Siege and Perilous are great. They are cute, sexy, playful, possessive, loyal and when required vicious. Not to mention Twins, so double the trouble!
March 14, 2016
I just plain love this series. It may be one of my all time favorite series'. The world is so diverse and the characters are always wonderful. And well I just adore dragons. ;)
Poor Kipling. He's had such a hard life as a fighter in the pits and being on the run from the rest of his pack after killing the Alpha is not an easy life for a werewolf. As much as it was the right thing to do being alone is never a happy choice for a werewolf bound to always crave being with a pack. He was determined to make it though and I loved his inner strength. He may be a natural submissive in nature but that doesn't come without a core that's been hardened to the strength of a diamond after so many years fighting for his survival.
Tori's like any other Owner, one all powerful Alpha, and he wants Kipling as his own. His dragons are more than happy with the idea as well. I find the nature of dragons in this series to be such a new and interesting take. It's a fascinating thought.
I enjoyed this quick little story a lot. I liked the character of Kipling, his strength and his vulnerabilities were really lovely. I'm in my happy place. :)
Poor Kipling. He's had such a hard life as a fighter in the pits and being on the run from the rest of his pack after killing the Alpha is not an easy life for a werewolf. As much as it was the right thing to do being alone is never a happy choice for a werewolf bound to always crave being with a pack. He was determined to make it though and I loved his inner strength. He may be a natural submissive in nature but that doesn't come without a core that's been hardened to the strength of a diamond after so many years fighting for his survival.
Tori's like any other Owner, one all powerful Alpha, and he wants Kipling as his own. His dragons are more than happy with the idea as well. I find the nature of dragons in this series to be such a new and interesting take. It's a fascinating thought.
I enjoyed this quick little story a lot. I liked the character of Kipling, his strength and his vulnerabilities were really lovely. I'm in my happy place. :)
September 25, 2016
FIRST RE-READ 24 September 2016
Whether it's that I disliked this one so much the first time that re-reading it would inevitably make me like it better, whether it's because it's been longer since I read Sword of the King, or some other reason, I liked this much more this time through.
I was genuinely tempted to just skip this one on my re-read of the series, but I'm glad I didn't. I'm upping my rating from 2 stars to 3.
ORIGINAL REVIEW 28 September 2015
So I feel kind of like a hypocrite, or totally confused.
I adored the other book in this series about dragons, but this one disturbed me. Here they just seemed like sentient sex toys. Very disturbing. And I can't help wondering if that's how they were in the other, too, and I don't remember?
Favorite Quote:
"My home was lacking one very important werewolf."
Whether it's that I disliked this one so much the first time that re-reading it would inevitably make me like it better, whether it's because it's been longer since I read Sword of the King, or some other reason, I liked this much more this time through.
I was genuinely tempted to just skip this one on my re-read of the series, but I'm glad I didn't. I'm upping my rating from 2 stars to 3.
ORIGINAL REVIEW 28 September 2015
So I feel kind of like a hypocrite, or totally confused.
I adored the other book in this series about dragons, but this one disturbed me. Here they just seemed like sentient sex toys. Very disturbing. And I can't help wondering if that's how they were in the other, too, and I don't remember?
Favorite Quote:
"My home was lacking one very important werewolf."
June 10, 2015
I didn't like this as much as I thought I would. The beginning was promising, but after that it seemed every second paragraph was about how much Kipling hated Alphas and his time in the pits - which would be fine, if it didn't have to be repeating again and again. It isn't a long story, and I would much rather the word count be taken up by some more characterisation and plot development. As it was, the two MCs filled pretty much into a stereotypical, premade mould that you see everywhere in m/m books: scared but stubborn MC, and the alpha, rich, hot love interest. It was also absolute insta-love, which was fairly dull to read about. The dragons were interesting to read about, at least.
(I got this on netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
(I got this on netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
June 7, 2020
Perfect...
I'd give this one double the stars if I could. Kipling's previous struggle of pain, suffering and harsh cruelty that he had to call his life contrasts harshly with the glorious existence Tori so generously and freely provides, and Kipling will do anything to protect Tori and his dragons from the mess that he's tried to make his past. His past catches up, and Kipling discovers his ultimate happy-ever-after simply by remaining true to himself, while Tori proves himself a worthy Alpha who is also Kipling's perfect ending. I loved this one...
I'd give this one double the stars if I could. Kipling's previous struggle of pain, suffering and harsh cruelty that he had to call his life contrasts harshly with the glorious existence Tori so generously and freely provides, and Kipling will do anything to protect Tori and his dragons from the mess that he's tried to make his past. His past catches up, and Kipling discovers his ultimate happy-ever-after simply by remaining true to himself, while Tori proves himself a worthy Alpha who is also Kipling's perfect ending. I loved this one...
July 16, 2015
A simple love-at-first-sight story, but it's a MMMM romance. I love Megan's menage with dragons involved, so although the story is simple, I like it anyway :P
May 7, 2017
A much too rushed story... Perhaps the sexual content could have been reduced in favour of more relationship development.
March 9, 2016
Favorite line. "I have brothers and friends aplenty who can show you that packs like yours are just chew toys to us."
July 16, 2020
4.5 really...because I am greedy and want more!
I want more of Kipling and Tori and of course, Sie and Peril! :)
Kipling kept talking about Peyton and I was all, I think I have Peyton's book. And sure enough, I read over that book, too. Now I want more of Peyton and Hudson and Johnnie and Grim. I LOVE THIS SERIES. And now that I went over that book which had that little fairytale as well - that I just read from one of this author's books. I want to reread that book all over again.
It is always a vicious cycle with this author. I really like this author's works.
I want more of Kipling and Tori and of course, Sie and Peril! :)
Kipling kept talking about Peyton and I was all, I think I have Peyton's book. And sure enough, I read over that book, too. Now I want more of Peyton and Hudson and Johnnie and Grim. I LOVE THIS SERIES. And now that I went over that book which had that little fairytale as well - that I just read from one of this author's books. I want to reread that book all over again.
It is always a vicious cycle with this author. I really like this author's works.
March 5, 2024
Paranormal MM romance. There's actual romance here for a change, beyond mere sex, of which there is a lot.
A werewolf on the run meets an intriguing man who invites him home. The wolf is wary. Soon though, he's dragged to the house by two pushy dragons. There's a confrontation with bad guys at the end.
Typos: Tori's for Tori, lay for lie.
A werewolf on the run meets an intriguing man who invites him home. The wolf is wary. Soon though, he's dragged to the house by two pushy dragons. There's a confrontation with bad guys at the end.
Typos: Tori's for Tori, lay for lie.
Read
January 11, 2025Kipling and Tori
Kip is Peyton’s friend, Tori is Ken’s uncle.
Kip is on the run from his pack and meets Tori. He wants to stay but leaves to protect him. Tori is sad and his dragons find Kip and bring him home.
Kip's old pack won’t give up looking for him.
The point of this story? Don’t mess with dragons.
Kip is Peyton’s friend, Tori is Ken’s uncle.
Kip is on the run from his pack and meets Tori. He wants to stay but leaves to protect him. Tori is sad and his dragons find Kip and bring him home.
Kip's old pack won’t give up looking for him.
The point of this story? Don’t mess with dragons.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2018
3.5 stars
March 22, 2019
I liked this short story. It was a fun and quick read with action, smex and romance all wrapped up in an interesting world where magic and magical creatures exist.
June 18, 2022
This was mostly porn with a bit of insta love on the side.
May 5, 2019
Not bad but even compared to other stories of its length - it just doesn't stand out. It didn't feel as well put together as most of Ms. Derr's other works. Typically even if the story is not as much to my tastes, the writing still sets it above most. But nothing set it apart - not the characters, plot, or writing. I still love the series, and I do not regret going back to read this one after reading the first 6 main novels.
January 25, 2024
Final Verdict: While not as polished as some of Derr’s stories, it is a fun, guilty read.
I have been a fan of Megan Derr for almost a decade now; from before she and several others started Less Than Three press. It was sad for me when she took down many of her stories (although completely understandable), so I am always very happy when she re-works one of those older stories and publishes it. Risk It All, is one of the stories that I remember from the old times (I loved her dragons and pit fighting world stories), and I was very excited to see what had been changed. I will do my best to focus this review only on this published version of the story.
Risk it All follows Kipling (Kip) as he is on the run from having just killed his pack’s Alpha and several other high ranking werewolves. He doesn’t regret what he had to do, but he has to try and keep one step ahead of the rest of the pack. This paired with the fact that he has spent the last decade as a roughskin, a fighter in the often times deadly fighting pits where rich men bet on his life, makes it hard for Kip to trust Tori, the obvious wealthy man that invites him for lunch. After giving in to temptation he spends a night with Tori, but slips away to an abandoned cabin to try and keep Tori from becoming a target as well. However, Kip clearly underestimated Tori, a man who not only owns a dragon but twin dragons, something he has never heard of before. Could this odd trio offer him the pack and companionship he so desperately yearns for? But what happens if his old pack finds him?
I am happy to report that I still really like this story, and the world that it is set in (which I didn’t realize until after I read it is the 7th book in the Dance with the Devil universe). It was a quick read, which I finished in one sitting, and found hard to put down, even for a cup of chai. Having said all that, I will admit it is not as polished as some of Derr’s other works. I found that the plot was not as developed as Rabbit Season (a story of comparable length by Derr), and there are little bits that just did not feel fully developed. Mostly it was a bit weird that while it is hinted at why Kip committed his murders, it is never explicitly said in this novel why he did it. It would have really helped to know for sure why Kip felt it so necessary, it feels very much like there was something specific, but we never find out. This paired with the fact that the plot is very much in the background to the romance makes it feel just that little bit unpolished.
However, all that said, I still really liked the story and will be re-reading it often. The strength of the story comes from Kip and Tori. Kip is a wonderful mix of strength and vulnerability, forcefulness and submission, and fierce and adorable. His past as a brutal pit fighter is with him, and the scars it left are clearly not just on his body. However, his need to be loved and wanted makes it easy to forget that he was undefeated in his fights for a reason. The final showdown in the book is very well written, and drives home these opposing forces that work so well within Kip.
Tori, on the other hand seems more open, but actually is not as clear what his motives are. He is still an interesting character, especially when his dragons are brought into things. The hints about Tori’s family lineage and the true history of the dragons is intriguing, and I really hope Derr continues with these ideas in some future books (preferably if she could bring back her stories about Tori’s brothers!). The dragons themselves were not in that much of the story, but their presence in those scenes is felt. Even when they are in their human forms they are not very human, especially when compared to Kip. This was a great contrast, and again I hope to see more of this in the future.
Overall, Risk It All, is a fun read set in an interesting universe. While the plot is not as developed as some stories, it is still worth a read. For old fans of Derr’s it is a great expansion of the original story, and some of her snippets from that world were also reworked into the main story. It should also be noted that this is an adult book, and it includes elements (polyamory and incest) that will not be for everyone, but if you are willing to give it a shot it is worth it. I hope that we will be seeing more from the dragons, the pit fighting, and this world in the future. Along with more of Derr’s old stories re-worked!
Originally posted: https://francesandlynne.wordpress.com...
I have been a fan of Megan Derr for almost a decade now; from before she and several others started Less Than Three press. It was sad for me when she took down many of her stories (although completely understandable), so I am always very happy when she re-works one of those older stories and publishes it. Risk It All, is one of the stories that I remember from the old times (I loved her dragons and pit fighting world stories), and I was very excited to see what had been changed. I will do my best to focus this review only on this published version of the story.
Risk it All follows Kipling (Kip) as he is on the run from having just killed his pack’s Alpha and several other high ranking werewolves. He doesn’t regret what he had to do, but he has to try and keep one step ahead of the rest of the pack. This paired with the fact that he has spent the last decade as a roughskin, a fighter in the often times deadly fighting pits where rich men bet on his life, makes it hard for Kip to trust Tori, the obvious wealthy man that invites him for lunch. After giving in to temptation he spends a night with Tori, but slips away to an abandoned cabin to try and keep Tori from becoming a target as well. However, Kip clearly underestimated Tori, a man who not only owns a dragon but twin dragons, something he has never heard of before. Could this odd trio offer him the pack and companionship he so desperately yearns for? But what happens if his old pack finds him?
I am happy to report that I still really like this story, and the world that it is set in (which I didn’t realize until after I read it is the 7th book in the Dance with the Devil universe). It was a quick read, which I finished in one sitting, and found hard to put down, even for a cup of chai. Having said all that, I will admit it is not as polished as some of Derr’s other works. I found that the plot was not as developed as Rabbit Season (a story of comparable length by Derr), and there are little bits that just did not feel fully developed. Mostly it was a bit weird that while it is hinted at why Kip committed his murders, it is never explicitly said in this novel why he did it. It would have really helped to know for sure why Kip felt it so necessary, it feels very much like there was something specific, but we never find out. This paired with the fact that the plot is very much in the background to the romance makes it feel just that little bit unpolished.
However, all that said, I still really liked the story and will be re-reading it often. The strength of the story comes from Kip and Tori. Kip is a wonderful mix of strength and vulnerability, forcefulness and submission, and fierce and adorable. His past as a brutal pit fighter is with him, and the scars it left are clearly not just on his body. However, his need to be loved and wanted makes it easy to forget that he was undefeated in his fights for a reason. The final showdown in the book is very well written, and drives home these opposing forces that work so well within Kip.
Tori, on the other hand seems more open, but actually is not as clear what his motives are. He is still an interesting character, especially when his dragons are brought into things. The hints about Tori’s family lineage and the true history of the dragons is intriguing, and I really hope Derr continues with these ideas in some future books (preferably if she could bring back her stories about Tori’s brothers!). The dragons themselves were not in that much of the story, but their presence in those scenes is felt. Even when they are in their human forms they are not very human, especially when compared to Kip. This was a great contrast, and again I hope to see more of this in the future.
Overall, Risk It All, is a fun read set in an interesting universe. While the plot is not as developed as some stories, it is still worth a read. For old fans of Derr’s it is a great expansion of the original story, and some of her snippets from that world were also reworked into the main story. It should also be noted that this is an adult book, and it includes elements (polyamory and incest) that will not be for everyone, but if you are willing to give it a shot it is worth it. I hope that we will be seeing more from the dragons, the pit fighting, and this world in the future. Along with more of Derr’s old stories re-worked!
Originally posted: https://francesandlynne.wordpress.com...
January 29, 2021
Although I'm not a fan of any kind of relationships that include more than 2 people, the way things work between Owners and their dragons, the relationship Tory has with Perilous and Siege (and he is a rare specimen having 2 dragons instead of the usual 1) which is about bonding and keeping the bond strong than an amorous thing, and Tory's relationship with Kipling are two different things and for me that works.
So this short story was a blessing 'cos I really wanted to know more about Neirin and Barra's relationship so knowing it was a menage I was skeptical but now I shall go forth my brothers and sisters (wondering all the while if all Owners have that kind of relationship with their dragons or just the gay ones LOL)
So this short story was a blessing 'cos I really wanted to know more about Neirin and Barra's relationship so knowing it was a menage I was skeptical but now I shall go forth my brothers and sisters (wondering all the while if all Owners have that kind of relationship with their dragons or just the gay ones LOL)
July 8, 2015
Review for BookWinked
If there are dragon stories I like, it’s the dragons created by Megan Derr in her Dance with the Devil universe. There may have been a silly happy dance involved when I received and ARC-copy for Risk it All, a short story involving a Cross brother, a roughskin and twin dragons. Tori is one of the uncles that was mentioned in Sword of the King. I believe there are two more Cross brothers, all of them with dragons (and boy do I hope they get their own stories too).
As I believe, the story was previously released by the author (on her website) and has been completely redone. Risk it All is part of the Dance with the Devil universe, but can be read separately. Fans of the series will recognize the link to the Dance in the Dark and Ruffskin books.
For such a short story (24.000 words), Risk it All has quite the tale to tell. Kipling is a roughskin, an outcast among his pack. He’s on the run when he meets Tori – a dragon owner. There is a spark there, but Kip can’t stay. However, he didn’t count on Tori’s unlikely companions.
There is a lot there in the story and while some was told by Kipling to give the reader a good idea of what is going on, there is also a lot of little details, attention to the story, characters and character development. Now, of course, don’t get me wrong, but this story was just waaaaaay too short and should have been at least ten times in size *wink*.
Despite that the story is well developed. The narrative is flowing, drawing the reader into the story without an info dump, but with a good understanding of the world Kipling moves in. It also has a sweet romance that runs alongside Kipling’s story.
What I did miss in the story was more background on Tori and his dragons. It doesn’t take away from the story, but we don’t get to know Tori and his dragons as well as we do Kip. It left me a whole lot more curious about the Cross clan and about Tori and his brothers.
There is a good plot to Risk it All, but the focus is on Kip as a character. Throughout the story he grows, from a little shy, curious and vulnerable, but strong wolf to a sexy, confident partner who fights and protects for what he wants.
The dragons are awesome. They are quite different from the dragons we know from other fantasy stories. They can shift to a human form, but can hardly be called shifters. They are more their own species and they are very intriguing. If you want to know more, you just have to read the story!
Why you should read it: Risk it All is a wonderful instalment in the Dance with the Dragons series. And it has DRAGONS. Fans of the world will love this new story, but really even if you are new to the series, the story is a good introduction.
If there are dragon stories I like, it’s the dragons created by Megan Derr in her Dance with the Devil universe. There may have been a silly happy dance involved when I received and ARC-copy for Risk it All, a short story involving a Cross brother, a roughskin and twin dragons. Tori is one of the uncles that was mentioned in Sword of the King. I believe there are two more Cross brothers, all of them with dragons (and boy do I hope they get their own stories too).
As I believe, the story was previously released by the author (on her website) and has been completely redone. Risk it All is part of the Dance with the Devil universe, but can be read separately. Fans of the series will recognize the link to the Dance in the Dark and Ruffskin books.
For such a short story (24.000 words), Risk it All has quite the tale to tell. Kipling is a roughskin, an outcast among his pack. He’s on the run when he meets Tori – a dragon owner. There is a spark there, but Kip can’t stay. However, he didn’t count on Tori’s unlikely companions.
There is a lot there in the story and while some was told by Kipling to give the reader a good idea of what is going on, there is also a lot of little details, attention to the story, characters and character development. Now, of course, don’t get me wrong, but this story was just waaaaaay too short and should have been at least ten times in size *wink*.
Despite that the story is well developed. The narrative is flowing, drawing the reader into the story without an info dump, but with a good understanding of the world Kipling moves in. It also has a sweet romance that runs alongside Kipling’s story.
What I did miss in the story was more background on Tori and his dragons. It doesn’t take away from the story, but we don’t get to know Tori and his dragons as well as we do Kip. It left me a whole lot more curious about the Cross clan and about Tori and his brothers.
There is a good plot to Risk it All, but the focus is on Kip as a character. Throughout the story he grows, from a little shy, curious and vulnerable, but strong wolf to a sexy, confident partner who fights and protects for what he wants.
The dragons are awesome. They are quite different from the dragons we know from other fantasy stories. They can shift to a human form, but can hardly be called shifters. They are more their own species and they are very intriguing. If you want to know more, you just have to read the story!
Why you should read it: Risk it All is a wonderful instalment in the Dance with the Dragons series. And it has DRAGONS. Fans of the world will love this new story, but really even if you are new to the series, the story is a good introduction.
August 13, 2015
I love the shifter sexiness and intrigue in this book. Kipling is a wolf shifter who is on the run after killing his pack Alpha. As a roughskin, he has been forced to fight for spectators and kill other wolves. Since he’s been used and abused for so long, his only desire is survival. However, when Kiplig finds a place to hide out, he ends up meeting Torri, a man who sees Kipling’s beauty and treats him like a person. Kipling has never been kissed and loved in a gentle manner, so his relationship with Torri is very new and exciting. Though he believes he can never stop running, Torri takes Kipling in, introducing him to his sexy and rambunctious dragon shifters. Kipling adores having Torri as his lover and protector, but when his former pack catches up to him, his fairytale life is threatened.
This book was a pleasant surprise. Though I’ve only read book one in the series, I didn’t feel like I missed anything from not reading the books that came in between. The romance between Kipling and Torri is hot, but my favorite part of the story was the dragon shifters. Despite being dangerous and liking to play rough, they were sweet and cute like puppies. Even in their human form, the dragons seemed more like pets—wanting to touch and play with Kipling, but having to be reminded about their manners. Though the polyamory scenes between Kipling, Torri and the dragon shifters are non-graphic and mostly narrated, I still loved the picture that the author paints—domestic bliss with the addition of Torri’s frisky dragon friends. I also liked the intrigue and was pleased with the happy ending. I recommend this book to anyone who loves M/M shifter fantasy with polyamory and romance.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
This book was a pleasant surprise. Though I’ve only read book one in the series, I didn’t feel like I missed anything from not reading the books that came in between. The romance between Kipling and Torri is hot, but my favorite part of the story was the dragon shifters. Despite being dangerous and liking to play rough, they were sweet and cute like puppies. Even in their human form, the dragons seemed more like pets—wanting to touch and play with Kipling, but having to be reminded about their manners. Though the polyamory scenes between Kipling, Torri and the dragon shifters are non-graphic and mostly narrated, I still loved the picture that the author paints—domestic bliss with the addition of Torri’s frisky dragon friends. I also liked the intrigue and was pleased with the happy ending. I recommend this book to anyone who loves M/M shifter fantasy with polyamory and romance.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 15, 2019
No, no, no! What the hell? Why did the author completely change one of my favorite stories from its original? I love this particular free, online set of stories ("The Dragon's Pit" anthology) available from her website. Kipling's story is "The Pack" and it is far better than the new rewrite.
At first, I was thrilled with the fact that the author was going to elaborate on the story. For some reason, I thought she'd stick to the original plot and character, and flesh out the backstory and other details. However, this is a substantial change in plot and in character. I thought Ril and Sie came off as far less endearing and lovable here, and the insta-sex between Tori and Kipling is less palatable. The original story fit much better in the world of the Dragon Pit (and had introduced Oliver, the lawyer, conveniently). It's not believable that Kipling wouldn't recognize the smell of dragons after he had spent time in the Pits (ok, maybe they were a different, wolves-only Pits?). He doesn't have electricity in the rundown cabin, and he just squats in it, according to the new version. But would Tori and the dragons not know what was happening in their backyard? A lone wolf coming in, wouldn't Ril and Sie have smelled him in their roaming of their territory?
The new rewrite, taken as an independent story, is merely OK. It's lost a lot of charm and doesn't have any better writing to offset that in any way. Derr's writing is still pretty bad in most places, and generally, I forgive her those writing sins because she is so brilliant at world-building, romance and likable characters.
If you want to read something brilliant by Megan Derr, read the absolutely amazing set of stories in Volume 2, Fairy Tales Slashed (especially "Beast" and the "Wizard's Tower") as well as the superb "Magic and Mischief" anthology.
Sigh. I feel like a Star Wars fan after Lucas put out Episode 1. I'm not looking forward to the other rewrites. Please, please, Megan, just stick to the original stories and clean up the typos and the grammatical mistakes. That's all you need to do!
At first, I was thrilled with the fact that the author was going to elaborate on the story. For some reason, I thought she'd stick to the original plot and character, and flesh out the backstory and other details. However, this is a substantial change in plot and in character. I thought Ril and Sie came off as far less endearing and lovable here, and the insta-sex between Tori and Kipling is less palatable. The original story fit much better in the world of the Dragon Pit (and had introduced Oliver, the lawyer, conveniently). It's not believable that Kipling wouldn't recognize the smell of dragons after he had spent time in the Pits (ok, maybe they were a different, wolves-only Pits?). He doesn't have electricity in the rundown cabin, and he just squats in it, according to the new version. But would Tori and the dragons not know what was happening in their backyard? A lone wolf coming in, wouldn't Ril and Sie have smelled him in their roaming of their territory?
The new rewrite, taken as an independent story, is merely OK. It's lost a lot of charm and doesn't have any better writing to offset that in any way. Derr's writing is still pretty bad in most places, and generally, I forgive her those writing sins because she is so brilliant at world-building, romance and likable characters.
If you want to read something brilliant by Megan Derr, read the absolutely amazing set of stories in Volume 2, Fairy Tales Slashed (especially "Beast" and the "Wizard's Tower") as well as the superb "Magic and Mischief" anthology.
Sigh. I feel like a Star Wars fan after Lucas put out Episode 1. I'm not looking forward to the other rewrites. Please, please, Megan, just stick to the original stories and clean up the typos and the grammatical mistakes. That's all you need to do!
March 19, 2016
Title: Risk it All
Author: Megan Derr
Publisher: Less Than Three Press
ISBN: 9781620045770
Buy Link: http://www.lessthanthreepress.com/boo...
Reviewer: Teresa - Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Dance With the Devil 7
Kipling doesn't regret murdering his Alpha. Anything is better than continuing to live as a roughskin, subjected to brutal pit fights and abuse day after day. But constantly running for his life, always looking over his shoulder, and having nowhere to call home isn't much better.
When he finds an abandoned cabin in the mountains, it seems the ideal place to hide until his pack gives up the search. All he needs is supplies, and a quick trip into town should take care of that. Instead of supplies, however, he encounters Tori, who seems like everything Kipling has ever wanted—and far too good to be true.
And if Tori's not a trap then he, and his beautiful dragons, are just one more obstacle to be taken down by Kipling's pack.
Summary:
I really enjoyed this story, but it would have felt more complete if had begun when Kipling was fighting in the pits. It would have allowed the reader a better understanding into what he had gone through before he fought for his freedom. The abuse and torture Kipling endured was horrifying and it was understandable how he was hesitant to accept Tori's offer of help and friendship. When Kipling walked away from Tori it was the hardest thing he had ever down, but his need to protect the only person who ever showed him kindness and friendship was inspiring. Kipling's initial terror then confusion when first met Tori's dragons, Sei and Peril, when they dragged him through a blizzard just so Tori wouldn't be sad anymore was hysterical. Sei and Peril were the most unique and fascinating dragons that I have ever encountered in all the books I have read and I read a lot of books! The way Tori accepted Kipling without question proved to Kipling and the readers that he could be just the man that Kipling needed in his life.
Author: Megan Derr
Publisher: Less Than Three Press
ISBN: 9781620045770
Buy Link: http://www.lessthanthreepress.com/boo...
Reviewer: Teresa - Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Dance With the Devil 7
Kipling doesn't regret murdering his Alpha. Anything is better than continuing to live as a roughskin, subjected to brutal pit fights and abuse day after day. But constantly running for his life, always looking over his shoulder, and having nowhere to call home isn't much better.
When he finds an abandoned cabin in the mountains, it seems the ideal place to hide until his pack gives up the search. All he needs is supplies, and a quick trip into town should take care of that. Instead of supplies, however, he encounters Tori, who seems like everything Kipling has ever wanted—and far too good to be true.
And if Tori's not a trap then he, and his beautiful dragons, are just one more obstacle to be taken down by Kipling's pack.
Summary:
I really enjoyed this story, but it would have felt more complete if had begun when Kipling was fighting in the pits. It would have allowed the reader a better understanding into what he had gone through before he fought for his freedom. The abuse and torture Kipling endured was horrifying and it was understandable how he was hesitant to accept Tori's offer of help and friendship. When Kipling walked away from Tori it was the hardest thing he had ever down, but his need to protect the only person who ever showed him kindness and friendship was inspiring. Kipling's initial terror then confusion when first met Tori's dragons, Sei and Peril, when they dragged him through a blizzard just so Tori wouldn't be sad anymore was hysterical. Sei and Peril were the most unique and fascinating dragons that I have ever encountered in all the books I have read and I read a lot of books! The way Tori accepted Kipling without question proved to Kipling and the readers that he could be just the man that Kipling needed in his life.
July 14, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
I would recommend reading this book in conjunction with Dance with the Devil, Ruffskin, and Sword of the King from the Dance with the Devil series.
I loved this novella as much as I love anything Derr writes. This story, a happy ending for Peyton’s partner in crime and yet another Cross brother, brings two different books together while solidifying a vast world. It’s short and sweet while perfect in its content. There’s nothing more I could’ve hoped for these guys.
Kipling sort of breaks my heart. He’s a loner and intends on staying that way—no need endangering anyone else with his issues. Except he’s a pack animal and being with his own kind is all he knows. Then he meets Tori, who is the master of two dragons, and in a roundabout way that gives Kipling hope—after he comes to know them all. Kipling is strong and protective. His instincts are powerful, but his love is more so. I love his connection to Tori and the dragons. The way they all become a unit, a family, is beautiful. Tori is a rock and an obvious alpha, which Kipling desperately needs. Their relationship is meant to be from the start. But I enjoyed the push and pull of acceptance.
The dragons make this book. What I love about Derr’s dragons is that they are shifters, but they’re opposite what most dragon shifters are made to be. They are dragon first, human second. So while they understand and can look like humans, their dragon instincts are the strongest, even in their human skin. Siege and Perilous are so much fun that at times you forget how dangerous they can be—but not how sexy. This story does have polyamory and incest elements. I understand that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Though it works for me, especially here.
Read Crissy’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
I would recommend reading this book in conjunction with Dance with the Devil, Ruffskin, and Sword of the King from the Dance with the Devil series.
I loved this novella as much as I love anything Derr writes. This story, a happy ending for Peyton’s partner in crime and yet another Cross brother, brings two different books together while solidifying a vast world. It’s short and sweet while perfect in its content. There’s nothing more I could’ve hoped for these guys.
Kipling sort of breaks my heart. He’s a loner and intends on staying that way—no need endangering anyone else with his issues. Except he’s a pack animal and being with his own kind is all he knows. Then he meets Tori, who is the master of two dragons, and in a roundabout way that gives Kipling hope—after he comes to know them all. Kipling is strong and protective. His instincts are powerful, but his love is more so. I love his connection to Tori and the dragons. The way they all become a unit, a family, is beautiful. Tori is a rock and an obvious alpha, which Kipling desperately needs. Their relationship is meant to be from the start. But I enjoyed the push and pull of acceptance.
The dragons make this book. What I love about Derr’s dragons is that they are shifters, but they’re opposite what most dragon shifters are made to be. They are dragon first, human second. So while they understand and can look like humans, their dragon instincts are the strongest, even in their human skin. Siege and Perilous are so much fun that at times you forget how dangerous they can be—but not how sexy. This story does have polyamory and incest elements. I understand that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Though it works for me, especially here.
Read Crissy’s review in its entirety here.
June 5, 2015
I didn’t realize until after reading that this is the seventh book in the Dance With the Devil series. It definitely stands alone as a novella and was a fun, quick read.
The story: Kipling is a werewolf and has just killed his Alpha, the leader of his pack. He is on the run for his life. If he gets caught, he will be killed with no questions asked. He finds an abandoned shack on the edge of town where he thinks he might be safe for a little while, and it’s in that small town that he meets Tori.
The characters: Kipling is a roughskin, a fighter in the werewolf’s fighting pits, and a champion fighter. He has been fighting for over ten years, since he was fifteen. He learned quickly that it was fight or die.The Alphas abuse the fighters, taking what they want and sending them back in to fight again and again.
Tori is cultured, wealthy, and charismatic – everything that Kipling is not. He’s open and kind and Kipling has no reason to trust him other than what his instincts tell him. Tori reads as an Alpha, but calls himself an Owner. He is the owner of twin Dragons, rare shapeshifters who love and belong to him.
The Dragon twins were a nice change of pace in the shapeshifter world. They retained most of their “otherness” even when in human form.
What I liked: I loved the pace of this story. It’s a very quick read and there is quite a bit that happens in this novella.
What I didn’t like: I would have liked to know more about all the character’s backgrounds – what made Kipling kill his Alpha? Why was he in the pits at fifteen? Where was his family? And Tori – how did he come about owning his dragons? The dragon twins themselves were so fun to read about – I’d love to know more about them!
So, what I am saying is that a full length book about these four would be great!
ARC Provided by NetGalley
https://readingfemme.wordpress.com/20...
The story: Kipling is a werewolf and has just killed his Alpha, the leader of his pack. He is on the run for his life. If he gets caught, he will be killed with no questions asked. He finds an abandoned shack on the edge of town where he thinks he might be safe for a little while, and it’s in that small town that he meets Tori.
The characters: Kipling is a roughskin, a fighter in the werewolf’s fighting pits, and a champion fighter. He has been fighting for over ten years, since he was fifteen. He learned quickly that it was fight or die.The Alphas abuse the fighters, taking what they want and sending them back in to fight again and again.
Tori is cultured, wealthy, and charismatic – everything that Kipling is not. He’s open and kind and Kipling has no reason to trust him other than what his instincts tell him. Tori reads as an Alpha, but calls himself an Owner. He is the owner of twin Dragons, rare shapeshifters who love and belong to him.
The Dragon twins were a nice change of pace in the shapeshifter world. They retained most of their “otherness” even when in human form.
What I liked: I loved the pace of this story. It’s a very quick read and there is quite a bit that happens in this novella.
What I didn’t like: I would have liked to know more about all the character’s backgrounds – what made Kipling kill his Alpha? Why was he in the pits at fifteen? Where was his family? And Tori – how did he come about owning his dragons? The dragon twins themselves were so fun to read about – I’d love to know more about them!
So, what I am saying is that a full length book about these four would be great!
ARC Provided by NetGalley
https://readingfemme.wordpress.com/20...
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