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Qurilixen Lords #1
Dragon Prince: A Qurilixen World Novel
Grier’s fiery passion for Salena might be everything his dragon ever wanted but loving her might just lead to the destruction of everything he’s trying to save.
From NY Times & USA TODAY Bestselling Author, Michelle M. Pillow, the much anticipated dragon shapeshifter romance, Qurilixen Lords!
With all that is happening in his land, the upcoming shifter mating ceremony is the least of Grier’s concerns. Even though he is heir prince of the dragonshifters, he doesn’t have the authority needed to help the humans stranded in dragon territory, nor can he banish those who ruthlessly control them. Yet honor demands he finds an opportunity to intervene, and he hopes that doing so won’t start a war the shifters can’t win. Finding his destined mate couldn’t have come at a worse time.
Salena knows what it is like to be a pawn of the Federation. They might have kidnapped her and brought her to this strange territory, but she will never do what they want of her… what everyone wants of her. The last thing the fugitive needs is the very public attention of a fierce dragon prince claiming they’re fated by the gods—even if the sexy man makes her burn in more ways than one.
Length: LONG NOVEL
Dragon Shapeshifter, Paranormal, Science Fiction, Fantasy Romance
Part of the Qurilixen World
414 pages, Hardcover
First published February 12, 2019
286 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Michelle M. Pillow
202 books3,532 followersNew York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author of All Things Romance
MichellePillow.com
Michelle M. Pillow is a bestselling author with millions of books sold worldwide. She is known for her romantasy, paranormal and sci-fi romance and paranormal women’s fiction.
Her bestselling series includes Dragon Lords, Lords of the Var, Warlocks MacGregor, Tribes of the Vampire, Realm Immortal, Order of Magic, and Merely Mortal.
Recent News:
Pan Macmillan Tor Bramble acquired world rights to her Realm Immortal (romantasy, high fantasy enemies-to-lovers) and Tribes of the Vampire (urban romantasy, gothic vampire seduction) series for new print, audio, and translation editions starting 2026.
A hybrid author (traditional + indie), Michelle is a #1 Amazon bestseller, 2006 RT Reviewers' Choice Award winner, Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award nominee, and HOLT Medallion recipient.
Printable Booklist: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/42pg25jekx
Michelle loves to travel and try new things, whether it’s a paranormal investigation of an old Vaudeville Theatre or climbing Mayan temples in Belize. She’s addicted to movies and used to drive her mother crazy while quoting random scenes with her brother. She is the very proud mom to the most talented artist. Though it has yet to happen, her dream is to be a zombie in a horror movie. (She came close as a refugee extra on SyFy’s Z Nation, Fall 2016!) She is involved with various film and historical documentary projects with her filmmaker husband.
Stay Updated! Sign up for exclusive news, sneak peeks, and giveaways:
https://michellepillow.com/newsletter...
Connect with Michelle:
Facebook: AuthorMichellePillow
Website: MichellePillow.com
Bookstore (signed): MichellePillowBooks.com
MichellePillow.com
Michelle M. Pillow is a bestselling author with millions of books sold worldwide. She is known for her romantasy, paranormal and sci-fi romance and paranormal women’s fiction.
Her bestselling series includes Dragon Lords, Lords of the Var, Warlocks MacGregor, Tribes of the Vampire, Realm Immortal, Order of Magic, and Merely Mortal.
Recent News:
Pan Macmillan Tor Bramble acquired world rights to her Realm Immortal (romantasy, high fantasy enemies-to-lovers) and Tribes of the Vampire (urban romantasy, gothic vampire seduction) series for new print, audio, and translation editions starting 2026.
A hybrid author (traditional + indie), Michelle is a #1 Amazon bestseller, 2006 RT Reviewers' Choice Award winner, Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award nominee, and HOLT Medallion recipient.
Printable Booklist: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/42pg25jekx
Michelle loves to travel and try new things, whether it’s a paranormal investigation of an old Vaudeville Theatre or climbing Mayan temples in Belize. She’s addicted to movies and used to drive her mother crazy while quoting random scenes with her brother. She is the very proud mom to the most talented artist. Though it has yet to happen, her dream is to be a zombie in a horror movie. (She came close as a refugee extra on SyFy’s Z Nation, Fall 2016!) She is involved with various film and historical documentary projects with her filmmaker husband.
Stay Updated! Sign up for exclusive news, sneak peeks, and giveaways:
https://michellepillow.com/newsletter...
Connect with Michelle:
Facebook: AuthorMichellePillow
Website: MichellePillow.com
Bookstore (signed): MichellePillowBooks.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
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February 5, 2019My first book by this author was Barbarian Prince which introduced Qurilixen and the shifters who live there. Now having forayed with numerous stories that connect to the original books it’s with great delight that I’ve read this the first story about the next generation. Don’t misunderstand I have enjoyed the books more recently written but for this reader they always felt perhaps too light and lacking the exciting intensity of the original series.
So if I was dazzled by Prince Ualan just how interesting would I find his son Grier ? He’s a young man who understands all about duty and responsibility and I was very surprised that he could defer to his Mate who obviously wasn’t intending to stay with him. Not the attitude of the more traditional alpha male in science fiction yet for this progressive generation it felt right. As much as Salena is attracted to the handsome Prince she has a mission to complete and I loved seeing Grier and his cousins do everything they could to help. The Federation have put a price in Salenas head so it’s imperative that she stay off the radar which means sacrifices will have to be made but can a Dragon really give up his Mate ?
I fell in love with the original Draig and Var characters so I’m pleased that the author isn’t just revisiting but actually taking things up a notch. I adored meeting the new cast of characters and yes there are scenes involving old favourites but most of all I’m keen to find out what’s in store next . Salena might have accomplished something she wanted but there’s clearly a lot more to come and with these cunning and oh so honourable shifters in the mix I fear the story is really just beginning.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
So if I was dazzled by Prince Ualan just how interesting would I find his son Grier ? He’s a young man who understands all about duty and responsibility and I was very surprised that he could defer to his Mate who obviously wasn’t intending to stay with him. Not the attitude of the more traditional alpha male in science fiction yet for this progressive generation it felt right. As much as Salena is attracted to the handsome Prince she has a mission to complete and I loved seeing Grier and his cousins do everything they could to help. The Federation have put a price in Salenas head so it’s imperative that she stay off the radar which means sacrifices will have to be made but can a Dragon really give up his Mate ?
I fell in love with the original Draig and Var characters so I’m pleased that the author isn’t just revisiting but actually taking things up a notch. I adored meeting the new cast of characters and yes there are scenes involving old favourites but most of all I’m keen to find out what’s in store next . Salena might have accomplished something she wanted but there’s clearly a lot more to come and with these cunning and oh so honourable shifters in the mix I fear the story is really just beginning.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Read
September 15, 2021Dragon Prince (Qurilixen Lords 1)
by Michelle M. Pillow
Grier’s fiery passion for Salena might be everything his dragon ever wanted but loving her might just lead to the destruction of everything he’s trying to save.
With all that is happening in his land, the upcoming shifter mating ceremony is the least of Grier’s concerns. Even though he is heir prince of the dragonshifters, he doesn’t have the authority needed to help the humans stranded in dragon territory, nor can he banish those who ruthlessly control them. Yet honor demands he finds an opportunity to intervene, and he hopes that doing so won’t start a war the shifters can’t win. Finding his destined mate couldn’t have come at a worse time.
Salena knows what it is like to be a pawn of the Federation. They might have kidnapped her and brought her to this strange territory, but she will never do what they want of her… what everyone wants of her. The last thing the fugitive needs is the very public attention of a fierce dragon prince claiming they’re fated by the gods—even if the sexy man makes her burn in more ways than one.
GET THE BOOK: https://michellepillow.com/book/drago...
*****
The new narration that Michael Ferraiuolo did for my SFR book released last last night. He's scheduled to do the next books in the series as well.
https://michellepillow.com/book/audio...
by Michelle M. Pillow
Grier’s fiery passion for Salena might be everything his dragon ever wanted but loving her might just lead to the destruction of everything he’s trying to save.
With all that is happening in his land, the upcoming shifter mating ceremony is the least of Grier’s concerns. Even though he is heir prince of the dragonshifters, he doesn’t have the authority needed to help the humans stranded in dragon territory, nor can he banish those who ruthlessly control them. Yet honor demands he finds an opportunity to intervene, and he hopes that doing so won’t start a war the shifters can’t win. Finding his destined mate couldn’t have come at a worse time.
Salena knows what it is like to be a pawn of the Federation. They might have kidnapped her and brought her to this strange territory, but she will never do what they want of her… what everyone wants of her. The last thing the fugitive needs is the very public attention of a fierce dragon prince claiming they’re fated by the gods—even if the sexy man makes her burn in more ways than one.
GET THE BOOK: https://michellepillow.com/book/drago...
*****
The new narration that Michael Ferraiuolo did for my SFR book released last last night. He's scheduled to do the next books in the series as well.
https://michellepillow.com/book/audio...
April 5, 2024
Amz Purch. Nov. 29, 2020
From: Twinkle Tusks White Elephant
1.75 stars
DNF'd at 40%, page 161, chapter 12.
I was so excited to get this book. Dragons are my favorite shifters, sci-fi, fantasy and paranormal, my utmost favorite genres all in one.
Now I'm just disappointed.
No matter how many times I tried, it was impossible to get into this story.
The pace is so slow that even at 40% nothing much has happened. Except tons of words used as filler. I hate filler. Thoughts of both mc's is repetitive and so are the 'Discussions' between other characters and the mc's.
Overkill of Words KILLED this story for me. It was actually painful trying to read it hoping to get past the Much about Nothing to SOMETHING
I'm to old to waste my time reading something that is boring me into an early grave.
P.S.
At 40% there has still been no sex scenes. A kiss at most.
.........................................
5/15/22
Probably going to DNF.
Boring me and the language and flow is disjointed.
Just flat out not getting into it at all.
Gift From: Twinkle Tusks White Elephant
From: Twinkle Tusks White Elephant
1.75 stars
DNF'd at 40%, page 161, chapter 12.
I was so excited to get this book. Dragons are my favorite shifters, sci-fi, fantasy and paranormal, my utmost favorite genres all in one.
Now I'm just disappointed.
No matter how many times I tried, it was impossible to get into this story.
The pace is so slow that even at 40% nothing much has happened. Except tons of words used as filler. I hate filler. Thoughts of both mc's is repetitive and so are the 'Discussions' between other characters and the mc's.
Overkill of Words KILLED this story for me. It was actually painful trying to read it hoping to get past the Much about Nothing to SOMETHING
I'm to old to waste my time reading something that is boring me into an early grave.
P.S.
At 40% there has still been no sex scenes. A kiss at most.
.........................................
5/15/22
Probably going to DNF.
Boring me and the language and flow is disjointed.
Just flat out not getting into it at all.
Gift From: Twinkle Tusks White Elephant
February 12, 2019
The Dragon Prince🐉👑 Finds His True 💘Love
Grier, the Draig🐉Prince, isn't the 👑King, yet, but he has some beings already picked out that he wants to eject from his world, Qurilixen.🌍
The Draig🐉 also live on this world🌍 with the Var people, or 🐱Cat Shifters. I'm fact, his female Dragon 🐉 Shifter cousin, Grace💋🐉, is betrothed to the Var 🐱 Prince, Korbin, as part of a shifter peace treaty.
Selena💃💋 is a human woman without family shuffled from place to place. The latest place is Qurilixen🌍, and she doesn't remember much about how she got there, just that she is starving to death trying to keep hidden. She has a special paranormal talent that has the Federation searching for her.
When Grier's🐉 brother Jaxx🐉 finds her, she is almost unconscious. His mother promises to take Selena💃💋 off planet🌍 in secret, but when Grier's🐉 armband stone lights up, showing Selena💃💋 to be his true mate💞, all bets are off!
ARC Received via Bookfunnel⛅
The book is offered for $4.99 on Amazon.
This review is my opinion.
This is a very fine example of an Alpha Male Sci-fi Romance💞 with a strong human heroine.
Grier, the Draig🐉Prince, isn't the 👑King, yet, but he has some beings already picked out that he wants to eject from his world, Qurilixen.🌍
The Draig🐉 also live on this world🌍 with the Var people, or 🐱Cat Shifters. I'm fact, his female Dragon 🐉 Shifter cousin, Grace💋🐉, is betrothed to the Var 🐱 Prince, Korbin, as part of a shifter peace treaty.
Selena💃💋 is a human woman without family shuffled from place to place. The latest place is Qurilixen🌍, and she doesn't remember much about how she got there, just that she is starving to death trying to keep hidden. She has a special paranormal talent that has the Federation searching for her.
When Grier's🐉 brother Jaxx🐉 finds her, she is almost unconscious. His mother promises to take Selena💃💋 off planet🌍 in secret, but when Grier's🐉 armband stone lights up, showing Selena💃💋 to be his true mate💞, all bets are off!
ARC Received via Bookfunnel⛅
The book is offered for $4.99 on Amazon.
This review is my opinion.
This is a very fine example of an Alpha Male Sci-fi Romance💞 with a strong human heroine.
January 23, 2023
World-wise, it was very interesting. Relationship-wise, it was a little dull until halfway. Sure, it's a slowburn, but there isn't much chemistry between the characters until they kiss for the first time. If it's available and I have time, I might look into the next book.
February 14, 2021
Dragon Prince is the first book in the Qurilixen Lords series by Michelle M. Pillow.
I just want to start off by saying that I started with Barbarian Prince and now that I am here…it is just so nostalgic since it has been a while since the Draig and the Var series. This is the first book about the next generation.
After many years, there have been significant changes in Qurilixen since accepting temporary Federation refugees in their planet because the Federation has stated that the radiation from the planet's sun has the means to cure a large mass of people. With changes comes with many different things; with the Federation camps turning into an city. With every city, comes with a price as there are people living in the city that are in bad situations.
Prince Grier is the heir to the throne with the expectation of taking over the throne and finding his wife, but the last thing thing on his mind is finding a bride in the midst of all the chaos the Federation is bringing to his planet.
The Draig's Breeding Festival only occurs on one night out of the whole year since darkness only comes once and Prince Grier is expected to come; however, this night is the last thing on his mind as the Federation is growing more and more bold with doing things in secret that might bring grief to his planet.
The will of the Gods cannot be bended or changed as his crystal glows as a sign that his life mate is near by and now it is up to him to be with his destined wife.
Salena is a refugee that is hiding from the Federation because she has a special gift that they want to overuse. The Federation will stop at absolutely nothing until they get their hands on her so she feels that accepting help offered by Grier is her only chance.
I absolutely loved this book. The Draig and the Var series were very different from this one and Michelle absolutely showed out on this one. This was an explosion. This was complex and well thought out. It was very well-paced that developed well. The characters, the story, the build up, and the emotions all flowed in an upward slope that was at a good pace.
Michelle, this was absolutely amazing. I just want to say thank you for continuing this world! I cannot wait for more. This was phenomenal.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I just want to start off by saying that I started with Barbarian Prince and now that I am here…it is just so nostalgic since it has been a while since the Draig and the Var series. This is the first book about the next generation.
After many years, there have been significant changes in Qurilixen since accepting temporary Federation refugees in their planet because the Federation has stated that the radiation from the planet's sun has the means to cure a large mass of people. With changes comes with many different things; with the Federation camps turning into an city. With every city, comes with a price as there are people living in the city that are in bad situations.
Prince Grier is the heir to the throne with the expectation of taking over the throne and finding his wife, but the last thing thing on his mind is finding a bride in the midst of all the chaos the Federation is bringing to his planet.
The Draig's Breeding Festival only occurs on one night out of the whole year since darkness only comes once and Prince Grier is expected to come; however, this night is the last thing on his mind as the Federation is growing more and more bold with doing things in secret that might bring grief to his planet.
The will of the Gods cannot be bended or changed as his crystal glows as a sign that his life mate is near by and now it is up to him to be with his destined wife.
Salena is a refugee that is hiding from the Federation because she has a special gift that they want to overuse. The Federation will stop at absolutely nothing until they get their hands on her so she feels that accepting help offered by Grier is her only chance.
I absolutely loved this book. The Draig and the Var series were very different from this one and Michelle absolutely showed out on this one. This was an explosion. This was complex and well thought out. It was very well-paced that developed well. The characters, the story, the build up, and the emotions all flowed in an upward slope that was at a good pace.
Michelle, this was absolutely amazing. I just want to say thank you for continuing this world! I cannot wait for more. This was phenomenal.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2019
Wonderful!!!
OMG I can't believe I'm reading about Rigan and Ualan's grown up son! All the adversities and tribulations they lived to get to this point in life. So worth it!
Grier is indeed his parents son, they couldn't be prouder. But Grier doesn't want to be in the Breeding Ceremonies, (remind you of someone much?) he knows that as future king it is his duty to his people, but doesn't mean he wants to, so he will make an appearance. When his crystal glows with no mate in sight he is sure it is the gods way of punishment for his denial all these years and now his dragon is about to reek his discontent.
Salena has been on the run trying to hide from the Federation that only wish to exploit her abilities. Because of that ability she has lost her family, all that was dear to her. Traveling from planet to planet she has finally escaped their clutches on the planet of Qurilexen, but having hidden in a cave on the mountain might have been even more dangerous for her heart to bare. One thing she has going for her, you can't lie to her, literally!
OMG I can't believe I'm reading about Rigan and Ualan's grown up son! All the adversities and tribulations they lived to get to this point in life. So worth it!
Grier is indeed his parents son, they couldn't be prouder. But Grier doesn't want to be in the Breeding Ceremonies, (remind you of someone much?) he knows that as future king it is his duty to his people, but doesn't mean he wants to, so he will make an appearance. When his crystal glows with no mate in sight he is sure it is the gods way of punishment for his denial all these years and now his dragon is about to reek his discontent.
Salena has been on the run trying to hide from the Federation that only wish to exploit her abilities. Because of that ability she has lost her family, all that was dear to her. Traveling from planet to planet she has finally escaped their clutches on the planet of Qurilexen, but having hidden in a cave on the mountain might have been even more dangerous for her heart to bare. One thing she has going for her, you can't lie to her, literally!
January 18, 2021
I loved getting pulled in to this amazing universe of dragon shifters and the dangerous balance between love and political conflicts. In this book we meet Grier, the dragon prince, who will one day be the king. He has a devoted calling to protect his people and wants to avoid an all out war with the Federation. Little does he know that his fated mate is a feisty human named Salena who has escaped captivity from the Federation. To add to the complications, she hesitates to accept what the gods have fated for her and Grier. She has her own agenda- to find her long lost sisters. As she carries the weight of having lost them, she must now face the fact that perhaps she was meant to meet the dragon prince. Grier tries with all his might to convince Salena that she should accept their fate, but Salena is torn between finding her sisters and listening to the man that has worked his way into her heart. I absolutely loved the weaving of the plot into the love story and how Grier's royal entourage is so different from what is expected. I can't wait to read the next book!
October 4, 2020
Dragon Prince
I can’t lie, it took 3 or 4 chapters before I got interested. I almost put it down but, I persevered til the end. Once developed the characters became more interesting but getting there was a bit of a pain. There’s lulls in the story development that almost made me put it down again. Interactions between the two primary characters is good most of the time. I’ve downloaded the next book in the series. I’m waiting to see how this one goes since the storyline has already been set up. There are sexual scenes in the book. If this offends you this is not the book for you.
I can’t lie, it took 3 or 4 chapters before I got interested. I almost put it down but, I persevered til the end. Once developed the characters became more interesting but getting there was a bit of a pain. There’s lulls in the story development that almost made me put it down again. Interactions between the two primary characters is good most of the time. I’ve downloaded the next book in the series. I’m waiting to see how this one goes since the storyline has already been set up. There are sexual scenes in the book. If this offends you this is not the book for you.
September 25, 2021
Fantastic new spin off of The Qurilixen World . This follows Grier who is the prince of the Dragon shifters as he finds his mate Salena . However things never go easy for the males in the QW and although everything is against them love wins out in the end.
January 8, 2023
I really enjoyed Dragon Prince. It's a great first book in a series. It draws you in and makes you care about the character's while the story captures your attention. This one features Grier, heir to the Dragon King and Salena, a human with a truth seeking ability. Salena is Grier's mate, but if she stays with him she'll bring danger to the shifters.
I liked both Salena and Grier. Their romance, while destined seemed doomed. I felt for their plight and hoped for a happy ending. It was an endearing story. The side characters are great as well, Jaxx, Payton and Roderic. I look forward to reading more about them.
Dragon Prince has a satisfying ending while leaving you intrigued for more. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I would recommend Dragon Prince to fans of Paranormal or Sci-fi Romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked both Salena and Grier. Their romance, while destined seemed doomed. I felt for their plight and hoped for a happy ending. It was an endearing story. The side characters are great as well, Jaxx, Payton and Roderic. I look forward to reading more about them.
Dragon Prince has a satisfying ending while leaving you intrigued for more. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I would recommend Dragon Prince to fans of Paranormal or Sci-fi Romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2019
I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest!
It was a great book!
Salena has a mission to complete, so she is not sure what to do with this prince
( even thought, he is so yummy )
Grier found his mate
Now, how to keep her ?
Will these 2 find a compromise ?
Loved the characters + the storytelling!
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in this series.
It was a great book!
Salena has a mission to complete, so she is not sure what to do with this prince
( even thought, he is so yummy )
Grier found his mate
Now, how to keep her ?
Will these 2 find a compromise ?
Loved the characters + the storytelling!
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in this series.
October 22, 2020
I enjoyed this story immensely. I think it's my favorite by this author so far. The length allowed the story to be fully fleshed out. Even though the stories in this series are usually insta-lust there wasn't insta-sex in this one..
September 28, 2021
FANTASTIC ADDICTIVE SERIES
Great dragon story linked by portal and pirate space ship to another of my favourite series by this author Michelle. This book is full of adventure , risk and of course happy ever after love. Very entertaining. I recommend it.
Great dragon story linked by portal and pirate space ship to another of my favourite series by this author Michelle. This book is full of adventure , risk and of course happy ever after love. Very entertaining. I recommend it.
February 12, 2019
I read the first series so getting to read the continuation is awesome! To keep following the journey from the parents to their childrens stories is wonderful! A must read for sure!
February 17, 2021
ove the return to the Qurilixen world!!
September 23, 2021
Full credit to the author and her ability to draw you into the Qurilixen work! This is Grier and Salena’s story. Grier is a perfect gentleman, with a strong sense of duty and honour. He is patient with Salena and doesn’t push her into a union with him. It’s wonderful to see their romance blossom! Great narration and as is always a case with Michelle M Pillow’s books, a perfect blend of adventure, romance and as always, great storytelling.
July 13, 2022
This is the 1st book in the Qurilixen Lords series, which is great addition the wonderful Qurilixen World the author has created. Michelle M. is a one click buy author for me, I always know I am getting a great read and who doesn't need a escape from real life every now and then. Loved this book, cannot wait to read the rest of the series!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2019
Wow! Just wow! What a great start to a new generation of shifters from Qurilixen. Can't recommend this highly enough.
The children of the original Draig and Var Princes have grown up, and much has changed on their remote planet since their fathers were searching for brides. The generous nature of the Qurilixen people has seen them accept some temporary Federation refugees, thirty years ago, and as a consequence, the Federation has been trying to extend its slender foothold on Qurilixen soil ever since.
The last thing Prince Grier, heir to the Draig throne, is interested in is finding a bride, at least not yet. With the planet's one annual night of darkness - and therefore the annual Draig Breeding Festival - due soon, Grier's father insists that he attend. Yet Grier has a more pressing concern. He is certain that the Federation is smuggling more people on to the planet under cover of darkness, and this is to him far more important than finding a wife. But the will of the Gods can not be denied, and when his crystal glows, Grier knows his life mate is near, if only he can find her. And when he does, persuade her that she is destined to be his wife.
The last thing Salena is interested in is finding a husband. She doesn't even know where she is and her most pressing concern is to stay out of Federation hands. Then if she can, locate and rescue her sisters, presumably also Federation captives. Her best bet seems to be accepting the assistance offered by some locals who may or may not be royalty, even though one, Grier, seems to be strangely fixated on a glowing crystal. Attracted as Salena is to Grier, knowing that the Federation will stop at nothing to recapture her, including bringing war to Qurilixen, she knows she must leave. And it seems that the best thing that Grier can do for his people is to let her go.
I, like many other fans of the Dragon Lords and Lords of the Var books, have been hoping for a new series about the next generation for quite some time. And this doesn't disappoint. Rather than write about years of little children growing up, Ms Pillow very cleverly starts this series many years later when the children are adults, and life on Qurilixen has had a reasonable amount of time to change in a realistic way. The Draig and the Var are no longer facing conflict with each other, but must work together to face threats from outside.
I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish...not that I wanted it to end.
I think it's one of the best, if not the best that Michelle M Pillow has written. The world building in this and the earlier books is very rich and complex, and the characters are well-drawn and believable,
people to whom the reader can relate - even if some of them do have a tail.
It's a brilliant start to the new series, well-paced with action and emotion, interesting new characters (and a few mentions of old favourites), a complete novel without a cliffhanger, yet allowing much scope for future installments. Readers would probably enjoy it more if they've already read the Dragon Lords and Lords of the Var books, but even without that background, it's still a cracking good read. Recommended. Five stars.
The children of the original Draig and Var Princes have grown up, and much has changed on their remote planet since their fathers were searching for brides. The generous nature of the Qurilixen people has seen them accept some temporary Federation refugees, thirty years ago, and as a consequence, the Federation has been trying to extend its slender foothold on Qurilixen soil ever since.
The last thing Prince Grier, heir to the Draig throne, is interested in is finding a bride, at least not yet. With the planet's one annual night of darkness - and therefore the annual Draig Breeding Festival - due soon, Grier's father insists that he attend. Yet Grier has a more pressing concern. He is certain that the Federation is smuggling more people on to the planet under cover of darkness, and this is to him far more important than finding a wife. But the will of the Gods can not be denied, and when his crystal glows, Grier knows his life mate is near, if only he can find her. And when he does, persuade her that she is destined to be his wife.
The last thing Salena is interested in is finding a husband. She doesn't even know where she is and her most pressing concern is to stay out of Federation hands. Then if she can, locate and rescue her sisters, presumably also Federation captives. Her best bet seems to be accepting the assistance offered by some locals who may or may not be royalty, even though one, Grier, seems to be strangely fixated on a glowing crystal. Attracted as Salena is to Grier, knowing that the Federation will stop at nothing to recapture her, including bringing war to Qurilixen, she knows she must leave. And it seems that the best thing that Grier can do for his people is to let her go.
I, like many other fans of the Dragon Lords and Lords of the Var books, have been hoping for a new series about the next generation for quite some time. And this doesn't disappoint. Rather than write about years of little children growing up, Ms Pillow very cleverly starts this series many years later when the children are adults, and life on Qurilixen has had a reasonable amount of time to change in a realistic way. The Draig and the Var are no longer facing conflict with each other, but must work together to face threats from outside.
I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish...not that I wanted it to end.
I think it's one of the best, if not the best that Michelle M Pillow has written. The world building in this and the earlier books is very rich and complex, and the characters are well-drawn and believable,
people to whom the reader can relate - even if some of them do have a tail.
It's a brilliant start to the new series, well-paced with action and emotion, interesting new characters (and a few mentions of old favourites), a complete novel without a cliffhanger, yet allowing much scope for future installments. Readers would probably enjoy it more if they've already read the Dragon Lords and Lords of the Var books, but even without that background, it's still a cracking good read. Recommended. Five stars.
June 11, 2023
Grier was not yet the king, but he wanted to help people and banish the problem-causers. In the past, they had accepted help from the Federation Alliance. Now they couldn’t completely pull back from their interference as they claimed squatters’ rights in the city. Any kind of official alliance was to be avoided. Politics were too controlling! The Federation had taken advantage of their kindness. Huge numbers of off-worlders had been sneaked in during the period of darkness when the Qurilixens were distracted by their sacred mating ceremonies. It strained the planet’s resources and created extreme poverty areas where none had existed before.
Grier is aware of his duty to find a mate, but is this the right time to participate in the mating ceremony when he is trying to keep track of the Federation? His crystal glows but he can't find the female that should be his mate. Salena has been running from the Federation which is trying to capture her, and she has to remain in hiding until she can find her missing sisters. When she and Grier meet, she feels the attraction, but she doesn’t want to put Quirilixen in danger from the vicious Federation trying to capture her. It is best for all that she leaves to keep everyone safe. Can Grier let her go? Does she know what she is to him?
This new generation is going to be amazing! I, too, am one who started off with the Barbarian Prince – I can’t believe it has been that long! He has remained my favorite character in my favorite book since then! But this new lot is looking fantastic and I can’t wait to start the new adventures with them. The world building is really good. The characters are believable and many are very likable. I already have my favorites! Grab your copy and start to build your own memories. These stories will definitely have a place in your reading library for years to come! (My personal congratulations to the author on her 15 Year Author Anniversary – you keep getting better and better!)
Grier is aware of his duty to find a mate, but is this the right time to participate in the mating ceremony when he is trying to keep track of the Federation? His crystal glows but he can't find the female that should be his mate. Salena has been running from the Federation which is trying to capture her, and she has to remain in hiding until she can find her missing sisters. When she and Grier meet, she feels the attraction, but she doesn’t want to put Quirilixen in danger from the vicious Federation trying to capture her. It is best for all that she leaves to keep everyone safe. Can Grier let her go? Does she know what she is to him?
This new generation is going to be amazing! I, too, am one who started off with the Barbarian Prince – I can’t believe it has been that long! He has remained my favorite character in my favorite book since then! But this new lot is looking fantastic and I can’t wait to start the new adventures with them. The world building is really good. The characters are believable and many are very likable. I already have my favorites! Grab your copy and start to build your own memories. These stories will definitely have a place in your reading library for years to come! (My personal congratulations to the author on her 15 Year Author Anniversary – you keep getting better and better!)
February 13, 2019
Michelle Pillow- Dragon Prince: A Qurilixen World Novel (Qurilixen Lords Book 1)
A very exciting spinoff to the Qurilixen shifter series that focuses on the 1st generation of all those matches we enjoyed in the Draig and Var shifter series. This is a long novel full of the now grown Var and Dragon Royalty as well as appearances from their parents we have come to love in the past books.
There have been many changes to the Qurilixen World as the Federation has infiltrated the planet once again by “claiming” they needed the strong radiation of the planet’s suns to cure a large population of people (captives).The Federation basically ignores the transplants held in slum like conditions so that they can have a stronghold on the planet.
Prince Grier is the son of Prince Ulsan and his human Queen (the very first book of this series) as is therefore heir to the throne. His mating crystal lights for a female named Selena who is running from the Federation (she and her sisters have special powers the Federation wants).
Salena is a great heroine and I’m hoping her sisters get books of their own as the series grows.
The author has done a phenomenal job of growing this world and bringing it and the characters into the future. The alliances and friendships between the Draig and the Var second generation have become more solidified and grown. It was great seeing how the female mates from the first books have adapted to play such important roles throughout the last years.
What an amazing start to this new series of Qurilixen world rich in an exciting dramatic storyline I highly recommend it to lovers of this series and new readers as well. Although it can be read on its own it is tenfold more of an awesome reading experience to read the series in order.
The thrilling HEA leaves us with hints several characters whose stories will hopefully be coming out in the near future.
A very exciting spinoff to the Qurilixen shifter series that focuses on the 1st generation of all those matches we enjoyed in the Draig and Var shifter series. This is a long novel full of the now grown Var and Dragon Royalty as well as appearances from their parents we have come to love in the past books.
There have been many changes to the Qurilixen World as the Federation has infiltrated the planet once again by “claiming” they needed the strong radiation of the planet’s suns to cure a large population of people (captives).The Federation basically ignores the transplants held in slum like conditions so that they can have a stronghold on the planet.
Prince Grier is the son of Prince Ulsan and his human Queen (the very first book of this series) as is therefore heir to the throne. His mating crystal lights for a female named Selena who is running from the Federation (she and her sisters have special powers the Federation wants).
Salena is a great heroine and I’m hoping her sisters get books of their own as the series grows.
The author has done a phenomenal job of growing this world and bringing it and the characters into the future. The alliances and friendships between the Draig and the Var second generation have become more solidified and grown. It was great seeing how the female mates from the first books have adapted to play such important roles throughout the last years.
What an amazing start to this new series of Qurilixen world rich in an exciting dramatic storyline I highly recommend it to lovers of this series and new readers as well. Although it can be read on its own it is tenfold more of an awesome reading experience to read the series in order.
The thrilling HEA leaves us with hints several characters whose stories will hopefully be coming out in the near future.
February 12, 2019
I have loved Michelle Pillow's Qurilixen world books, but subsequent books have always been lighter and funnier and a little less sexy, alpha shifters. The latest, Dragon Prince, has the feel of the originals and I am so happy to jump back into that world.
Of course, things have changed and now we get the stories of the original characters' children. Yay! The planet has changed too, a Federation camp sprung up and is now a full-blown city. Grier, next in line for the throne, wants to help the people in the city, but understands there is a delicate political dance that he has to work with. He is ready to give up his dreams of a mate, dragons want a mate, and he is shocked when his mating crystal glows and there is no woman around.
Except there is a woman hiding. Salena is hiding from the Federation - they want to use her gifts. She has a knack for making people tell the truth when she is near. Very interesting and can make for some unique twists. Grier wants to make Salena his mate and protect her from the Federation. She refuses, instead wants to continue running and hiding.
Grier and Salena have to work together and their chemistry just gets hotter the more time they spend together. I really, really liked this book and I was so happy to read. Lots of sexiness and heat in this one.
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
Of course, things have changed and now we get the stories of the original characters' children. Yay! The planet has changed too, a Federation camp sprung up and is now a full-blown city. Grier, next in line for the throne, wants to help the people in the city, but understands there is a delicate political dance that he has to work with. He is ready to give up his dreams of a mate, dragons want a mate, and he is shocked when his mating crystal glows and there is no woman around.
Except there is a woman hiding. Salena is hiding from the Federation - they want to use her gifts. She has a knack for making people tell the truth when she is near. Very interesting and can make for some unique twists. Grier wants to make Salena his mate and protect her from the Federation. She refuses, instead wants to continue running and hiding.
Grier and Salena have to work together and their chemistry just gets hotter the more time they spend together. I really, really liked this book and I was so happy to read. Lots of sexiness and heat in this one.
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
February 12, 2019
The New Generation of shifter princes is about to break a few hearts!
Grier knows his place in the hierarchy of the island but that doesn't mean he wants to take part in the bride ceremony! But when his crystal starts glowing but he can't find the female - he really begins to think he is going nuts! But when he finally tracks down his mate he realises that she has been in hiding and have a mission of her own to complete. But can he let his mate depart without him or can he convince her to stay?
Salena is on the run from the Federation lackeys. They want to exploit the gifts of her and her sisters. But she has been separated from them for so long she despairs at ever finding them again.
The new generation of Drag and Var are much more intertwined than the originals and some of them are going to be a hoot - especially Grace! But there are still misunderstanding between the two camps. LOts to keep you interested and a few cameos from the older Dragon Lords and their mates to give a little blast of nostalgia!
Grier knows his place in the hierarchy of the island but that doesn't mean he wants to take part in the bride ceremony! But when his crystal starts glowing but he can't find the female - he really begins to think he is going nuts! But when he finally tracks down his mate he realises that she has been in hiding and have a mission of her own to complete. But can he let his mate depart without him or can he convince her to stay?
Salena is on the run from the Federation lackeys. They want to exploit the gifts of her and her sisters. But she has been separated from them for so long she despairs at ever finding them again.
The new generation of Drag and Var are much more intertwined than the originals and some of them are going to be a hoot - especially Grace! But there are still misunderstanding between the two camps. LOts to keep you interested and a few cameos from the older Dragon Lords and their mates to give a little blast of nostalgia!
December 18, 2021
Love this fantasy shifter romance that has a touch of intrigue thrown in.
Salena and Grier unexpectedly find themselves fated mates. But for her being a non-shifter and living in what one would call a refugee settlement, makes things complicated. Especially since the leaders of the settlement are not exactly good people and are secretly working against the shifters to rule thee planet.
With a host of secondary characters that leap off the page, this book has all the right things to make you fall in love with it.
Salena and Grier unexpectedly find themselves fated mates. But for her being a non-shifter and living in what one would call a refugee settlement, makes things complicated. Especially since the leaders of the settlement are not exactly good people and are secretly working against the shifters to rule thee planet.
With a host of secondary characters that leap off the page, this book has all the right things to make you fall in love with it.
May 19, 2020
Loved this story about Salena and Grier. They both felt a duty that took precedence over their own needs - Salena had to find her sisters and Grier was a prince destined to take over the throne and needed a wife. Salena initially fought her attraction to Grier but eventually came to love him. While they worked together to find one of her sisters, love did prevail for them. Lots of action and romance.
February 11, 2021
Absolutely loved this great shifter romance. It was filled with lots of adventure, strong characters and romance. Very well written and will leave you wanting more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2021
I’m new to this world, but I just got hooked and now I need all of these books. Salena is one of triplets stolen from her home , but she meets Grier while trying to be free and it begins their journey and hers.
October 9, 2025
Salena has been kidnapped from her home on Noire and brought to a primitive warrior world, Qurilixen, where she has escaped from her captors, who used her for her special ability. Grier is the heir of the dragon shifters and has little say in what is happening with these women coming to his territory. His father, King Ualan and King Kirill of the Var, have been stuck dealing with the Federation Alliance, as thousands of people, the Cysgodians, were brough to their world to save them from a virus that had wiped out most of their population. The blue sun apparently was good for them, helping them to recover, but had a side effect of shortening their life span, which has caused rebellion to build. The temporary Shelter City set up to house these survivors wasn’t supposed to be there long and was under Federation rule, and to allow it any permanence would mean they themselves were agreeing to be under the Federation’s alliance rule! The Federation has been sneaking more people into Shelter City, without the elders of the Draig dragon shifters or the Var cat shifters knowing about it, leaving people short of food and shelter that was flimsy and not up to the job. They refused to allow food simulator machines to be used, saying it was bad for the alien’s health. They want Qurilixen in their alliance for the ore they have in abundance, which they need for space travel.
Grier wanted to marry one day and have children, but a wife would be a weakness the Var could take advantage of and hold against him, as had happened to others in the past. He wore a crystal on a bracelet on his wrist, given to him by his father when he was born, which would light up when he was near his fated mate, which was the will of the gods! He had avoided mating ceremonies in years past, so the gods couldn’t show him his mate. It lit up when he returned to the tower after breaking up a fight in the city, but he couldn’t see anyone nearby. Salena had escaped from her captors and had hoped to find food in the tower, but had to go back to the cave in the cliff, where she had been hiding out. She was rescued by a dragon shifter, Jaxx, and taken to his mother, Princess Olena, after he spotted her after dropping supplies off in Shelter City in secret. She asks Olena some questions and knows she is telling her the truth, as that is an ability she was born with and which made her valuable to her captors as an interrogator! Salena is an identical triplet and her sisters Fiora and Piera, also have similar, but somewhat different abilities, they were always told to hide. She has been searching for her sisters for ages, after the villagers on their home world, turned against them and sold them off. Olena agrees to get her a ride off the planet with her pirate contacts and gets Jaxx to escort her to the edge of the forest, near where he is to take part in the mating ceremony! Grier has put in his appearance to please his parents, but believes he is cursed not to marry. At least he has his duty to his people, but his dragon is certainly not happy with that thought and forces him to shift! He was half shifted when he realised his crystal was glowing. Now he has to find his mate and when he does, he is only allowed to utter one word, as per tradition. His half form scares her and she reacts against what others expect from her as a bride and it is Olena and Jaxx who rescue her and take them to his tent.
Her choice of leaving on the smugglers ship is now no longer a possibility due to her being the prince’s fate mate. Not that she is willing to accept that, nor Grier’s insistence that she is his only wife and he cannot have another. The gods have smiled on him and given him the second chance to find her and he will do all he can to keep her. He should have been watching got the Federation sneaking other ships of people in, and it is that comment that allows Salena to tell him that it wouldn’t be near Shelter City, as she travelled for days by land, when she was brought there. Grier comes to realise he can’t keep her in his home, as it could start a war between the shifters and the Federation, if they found out she was with them. Not a decision he is happy about, but he doesn’t want her to have the weight of thousands of deaths if a war starts just because she is with him! She had thought her sisters were gone, but had never given up hope of finding out what had happened to them. She is offered a place on an ESC ship and Roderic gives her a copy of a wanted poster of her, or so he thought. This leads Salena to make an impromptu decision and some happiness, with the help of her dragon shifter mate and his friends. An unusual method of ensuring they are safe and the Federation can’t touch them, and it is the Queen who comes out on top for that bargaining. A great ending and still more to be done to find out what happened to her siblings, but at least they now have a chance of life and love together, without a war following their desires. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Grier wanted to marry one day and have children, but a wife would be a weakness the Var could take advantage of and hold against him, as had happened to others in the past. He wore a crystal on a bracelet on his wrist, given to him by his father when he was born, which would light up when he was near his fated mate, which was the will of the gods! He had avoided mating ceremonies in years past, so the gods couldn’t show him his mate. It lit up when he returned to the tower after breaking up a fight in the city, but he couldn’t see anyone nearby. Salena had escaped from her captors and had hoped to find food in the tower, but had to go back to the cave in the cliff, where she had been hiding out. She was rescued by a dragon shifter, Jaxx, and taken to his mother, Princess Olena, after he spotted her after dropping supplies off in Shelter City in secret. She asks Olena some questions and knows she is telling her the truth, as that is an ability she was born with and which made her valuable to her captors as an interrogator! Salena is an identical triplet and her sisters Fiora and Piera, also have similar, but somewhat different abilities, they were always told to hide. She has been searching for her sisters for ages, after the villagers on their home world, turned against them and sold them off. Olena agrees to get her a ride off the planet with her pirate contacts and gets Jaxx to escort her to the edge of the forest, near where he is to take part in the mating ceremony! Grier has put in his appearance to please his parents, but believes he is cursed not to marry. At least he has his duty to his people, but his dragon is certainly not happy with that thought and forces him to shift! He was half shifted when he realised his crystal was glowing. Now he has to find his mate and when he does, he is only allowed to utter one word, as per tradition. His half form scares her and she reacts against what others expect from her as a bride and it is Olena and Jaxx who rescue her and take them to his tent.
Her choice of leaving on the smugglers ship is now no longer a possibility due to her being the prince’s fate mate. Not that she is willing to accept that, nor Grier’s insistence that she is his only wife and he cannot have another. The gods have smiled on him and given him the second chance to find her and he will do all he can to keep her. He should have been watching got the Federation sneaking other ships of people in, and it is that comment that allows Salena to tell him that it wouldn’t be near Shelter City, as she travelled for days by land, when she was brought there. Grier comes to realise he can’t keep her in his home, as it could start a war between the shifters and the Federation, if they found out she was with them. Not a decision he is happy about, but he doesn’t want her to have the weight of thousands of deaths if a war starts just because she is with him! She had thought her sisters were gone, but had never given up hope of finding out what had happened to them. She is offered a place on an ESC ship and Roderic gives her a copy of a wanted poster of her, or so he thought. This leads Salena to make an impromptu decision and some happiness, with the help of her dragon shifter mate and his friends. An unusual method of ensuring they are safe and the Federation can’t touch them, and it is the Queen who comes out on top for that bargaining. A great ending and still more to be done to find out what happened to her siblings, but at least they now have a chance of life and love together, without a war following their desires. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
March 19, 2022
Delightful fantasy/sci-fi romance
The shifters of Qurilixen agreed to help the Federation save the Cysgodians when a virus ruined that planet's population, and now Qurilixen is in a gray area, not wanting to join the Federation and not being able to kick their temporary housing off the planet. Grier's cousin Grace visits him while he watches Shelter City. Grace teases him about getting married. Grier flies to interrupt a fight in Shelter City, then returns to the tower to dress. His crystal glows. He orders the person to show, but no one. He must be cursed to never have a mate.
Salena flees the tower to hide in a cave, hoping to die before the Federation kidnaps her again. Salena is pulled from her cave, flown somewhere soft and warm. Memories of parents, 2 sisters. Olena [Grier's aunt] says Jaxx had seen her in the cave as he flew by delivering supplies to Shelter City. Salena has a weird effect on people, they must tell her the truth. Why bring food? Federation refuses to give food simulators, and leaders of Shelter City won't take care of their people. “What do you want with me?” “I want to feed you and get rid of that ugly cut on your face,” “Then what?” “If you don’t want to find a partner at the mating ceremony tonight, then we’ll deliver you back to Shelter City. We can’t be caught interfering with the city. Please, stop whatever you’re doing to me.” “Do you mean to hurt me?” “No.” Salena asks for help getting off the planet. Olena will get her to her old pirate crew. In the meantime, hide in these trees.
Grier looks at his bracelet, knowing he should be heading to Shelter City to watch for the Federation bringing new citizens. He heavily grieves not having a mate, starts shifting. A woman screams, runs. He chases in half form. His bracelet glows.
Salena runs into the festival area. Now he's a handsome man. People see the crystal glowing, congratulate them. They keep pressuring her, she lifts her hands to yell No, everyone sees the knife. The handsome man takes off his mask, We're scaring her. Olena introduces her husband, Yusef, Salena, Olena's husband, Yusef, and nephew Grier. She explains Salena is running from the Federation, then tells Salena she won't take her to the pirate ship. Then Jaxx should've left me in the cave. “What cave?” Grier verifies which cave on which day, smiles. Why does the Federation want you? Olena explains. Jaxx comes in. Yusef, “Jaxx, go see to the shipment of food simulators and make sure they’re stashed safely before dawn. We don’t want this batch to be raided like that last one.”
Soon the 2 are alone. He explains the masks and loincloths, “All men are equal in the search for happiness. When our crystal glows, it tells us who the gods will for us. Then it is up to us to prove our worth. We have one night to do so. This night. We are not allowed to speak until our woman removes our mask and permits us to do so. It is a symbol of her acceptance, and proof that her decision is made freely.” She points out he already took off the mask. Yah, I messed up. “You really are a prince, aren’t you?” “You were not supposed to know who I was before you accepted me.” “And I haven’t accepted you. There will be other nights for you to try. I am sure the next bride will be—” “There is no next bride. Tonight was my only chance. Tomorrow, I will be explaining this failure to my people instead of trying to determine if Shelter City had an influx of citizens because I was unable to watch the skies for landing ships.” That's not where they landed when they brought me. “Maybe that is why your gods wanted you to find me tonight, so I could tell you that you are going to look in the wrong place.”
EVALUATION
I was worried I wouldn't understand universe politics, technology, etc, but Pillow quickly touched it and moved into characters, which is one of her strengths. Soon we're wrapped up in family and friends (with histories, jokes, etc), and Salena needs to hide from the Federation while looking for her sisters.
Character development is good, plot moves well, and the political tension is clear. Romance is quick for Grier (as expected) and organic for Salena (refreshing). I laughed at how they keep getting interrupted, and at Yevgen's faulty programming. I cried when the dragon flies too high. I'm excited to read the next book.
FAVORITE QUOTES
Marriage is for life, and there is nothing more attractive than a mate. That feeling should grow in time, not fade.
Fiora held a hand over her mouth, looking horrified at the fact she’d thrown up on Jaxx’s crotch. Fiora’s dismay was nothing compared to Jaxx’s. He stood frozen with his hands to his side as if he had no idea how to handle what had happened.
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS (SPOILERS)
Sex: multiple scenes
Language: 1 f***, 5 Lord's name in vain, 0 s***
Violence: kidnapping, fights
The shifters of Qurilixen agreed to help the Federation save the Cysgodians when a virus ruined that planet's population, and now Qurilixen is in a gray area, not wanting to join the Federation and not being able to kick their temporary housing off the planet. Grier's cousin Grace visits him while he watches Shelter City. Grace teases him about getting married. Grier flies to interrupt a fight in Shelter City, then returns to the tower to dress. His crystal glows. He orders the person to show, but no one. He must be cursed to never have a mate.
Salena flees the tower to hide in a cave, hoping to die before the Federation kidnaps her again. Salena is pulled from her cave, flown somewhere soft and warm. Memories of parents, 2 sisters. Olena [Grier's aunt] says Jaxx had seen her in the cave as he flew by delivering supplies to Shelter City. Salena has a weird effect on people, they must tell her the truth. Why bring food? Federation refuses to give food simulators, and leaders of Shelter City won't take care of their people. “What do you want with me?” “I want to feed you and get rid of that ugly cut on your face,” “Then what?” “If you don’t want to find a partner at the mating ceremony tonight, then we’ll deliver you back to Shelter City. We can’t be caught interfering with the city. Please, stop whatever you’re doing to me.” “Do you mean to hurt me?” “No.” Salena asks for help getting off the planet. Olena will get her to her old pirate crew. In the meantime, hide in these trees.
Grier looks at his bracelet, knowing he should be heading to Shelter City to watch for the Federation bringing new citizens. He heavily grieves not having a mate, starts shifting. A woman screams, runs. He chases in half form. His bracelet glows.
Salena runs into the festival area. Now he's a handsome man. People see the crystal glowing, congratulate them. They keep pressuring her, she lifts her hands to yell No, everyone sees the knife. The handsome man takes off his mask, We're scaring her. Olena introduces her husband, Yusef, Salena, Olena's husband, Yusef, and nephew Grier. She explains Salena is running from the Federation, then tells Salena she won't take her to the pirate ship. Then Jaxx should've left me in the cave. “What cave?” Grier verifies which cave on which day, smiles. Why does the Federation want you? Olena explains. Jaxx comes in. Yusef, “Jaxx, go see to the shipment of food simulators and make sure they’re stashed safely before dawn. We don’t want this batch to be raided like that last one.”
Soon the 2 are alone. He explains the masks and loincloths, “All men are equal in the search for happiness. When our crystal glows, it tells us who the gods will for us. Then it is up to us to prove our worth. We have one night to do so. This night. We are not allowed to speak until our woman removes our mask and permits us to do so. It is a symbol of her acceptance, and proof that her decision is made freely.” She points out he already took off the mask. Yah, I messed up. “You really are a prince, aren’t you?” “You were not supposed to know who I was before you accepted me.” “And I haven’t accepted you. There will be other nights for you to try. I am sure the next bride will be—” “There is no next bride. Tonight was my only chance. Tomorrow, I will be explaining this failure to my people instead of trying to determine if Shelter City had an influx of citizens because I was unable to watch the skies for landing ships.” That's not where they landed when they brought me. “Maybe that is why your gods wanted you to find me tonight, so I could tell you that you are going to look in the wrong place.”
EVALUATION
I was worried I wouldn't understand universe politics, technology, etc, but Pillow quickly touched it and moved into characters, which is one of her strengths. Soon we're wrapped up in family and friends (with histories, jokes, etc), and Salena needs to hide from the Federation while looking for her sisters.
Character development is good, plot moves well, and the political tension is clear. Romance is quick for Grier (as expected) and organic for Salena (refreshing). I laughed at how they keep getting interrupted, and at Yevgen's faulty programming. I cried when the dragon flies too high. I'm excited to read the next book.
FAVORITE QUOTES
Marriage is for life, and there is nothing more attractive than a mate. That feeling should grow in time, not fade.
Fiora held a hand over her mouth, looking horrified at the fact she’d thrown up on Jaxx’s crotch. Fiora’s dismay was nothing compared to Jaxx’s. He stood frozen with his hands to his side as if he had no idea how to handle what had happened.
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS (SPOILERS)
Sex: multiple scenes
Language: 1 f***, 5 Lord's name in vain, 0 s***
Violence: kidnapping, fights
June 6, 2023
Qurilixen Intrigue and Romance
If you've read the Captured by a Dragon Shifter series by this author, this series takes place many years after that one. In fact, the author gives her long-time readers an Easter egg in this story. There's a painting called Captured by a Dragon Shifter by Queen Beth in the Qurilixen royal palace, but when the current royals refer to it, they say it is from a time long ago filled with myths and legends and they are unsure if there's any truth to it whatsoever. Nice nod to that series!
I absolutely adored the dragon prince, the title character. Throughout most of the book, you can't help but empathize with him as he at first struggles with believing his gods have forsaken him for decrying their marriage customs and then as he struggles when his true mate from off-world will not accept him as a partner for a variety of reasons, including a noble one (though I think it’s more from fear and a lack of trust). The author writes about how the fated mate bond feels between a couple, even if they've just met, in such a way that it feels tangible and real. You get a true sense of their emotional and spiritual closeness, physical desire, and chemistry. Even our hero is surprised at how quickly the depth of these develop, and he’s known many fated-mate couples, including his still-loving parents. If you've read other Qurilixen books, it's a different social structure than you remember from the Captured by a Dragon Shifter series. The Var and the Draig are no longer at odds, but now have a common enemy in the Federation. They allowed the Federation to “temporarily” house people from a nearby world who were suffering from an illness that the blue sunlight on Qurilixen could cure. But what was supposed to be temporary has now existed for 30 years, and it's a delicate political dance to try to change anything without harm internally or causing war. The population is getting restless, too! The prince believes the Federation is sneaking more people onto the planet through unsanctioned routes, and our heroine—though she won't marry him—will try to help him figure out how they got her on the planet, as if she did not get there by the regular route. Will this mission bring these two star-crossed lovers closer together, or will she end up leaving Qurilixen as she has planned? You'll have to read the book to find out!
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
If you've read the Captured by a Dragon Shifter series by this author, this series takes place many years after that one. In fact, the author gives her long-time readers an Easter egg in this story. There's a painting called Captured by a Dragon Shifter by Queen Beth in the Qurilixen royal palace, but when the current royals refer to it, they say it is from a time long ago filled with myths and legends and they are unsure if there's any truth to it whatsoever. Nice nod to that series!
I absolutely adored the dragon prince, the title character. Throughout most of the book, you can't help but empathize with him as he at first struggles with believing his gods have forsaken him for decrying their marriage customs and then as he struggles when his true mate from off-world will not accept him as a partner for a variety of reasons, including a noble one (though I think it’s more from fear and a lack of trust). The author writes about how the fated mate bond feels between a couple, even if they've just met, in such a way that it feels tangible and real. You get a true sense of their emotional and spiritual closeness, physical desire, and chemistry. Even our hero is surprised at how quickly the depth of these develop, and he’s known many fated-mate couples, including his still-loving parents. If you've read other Qurilixen books, it's a different social structure than you remember from the Captured by a Dragon Shifter series. The Var and the Draig are no longer at odds, but now have a common enemy in the Federation. They allowed the Federation to “temporarily” house people from a nearby world who were suffering from an illness that the blue sunlight on Qurilixen could cure. But what was supposed to be temporary has now existed for 30 years, and it's a delicate political dance to try to change anything without harm internally or causing war. The population is getting restless, too! The prince believes the Federation is sneaking more people onto the planet through unsanctioned routes, and our heroine—though she won't marry him—will try to help him figure out how they got her on the planet, as if she did not get there by the regular route. Will this mission bring these two star-crossed lovers closer together, or will she end up leaving Qurilixen as she has planned? You'll have to read the book to find out!
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
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