This book had me from the title because well, I'm all about dragons. However, let me break it down for you, here are eight simple reasons why I think you should read this book:
1. It’s got one of the longest titles I’ve ever come across.Eight Simple Rules for Dating a Dragon: A Novel of the Embraced by [Sparks, Kerrelyn]
2. It starts with an historical account and then bham! Launches into an abduction.
3. It’s got dragon shifters and elves, and well…kingdoms.
4. Did I mention the interesting story line?
Gwennore is an Elf able to track down the cause of a certain illness and heal it—a valuable asset to her people. But when she is thrust into the realm of the dragons, she discovers a haunted place of power, passion, and magic—one that is plagued by an ancient curse. When she meets the smoldering General Silas Dravenko, Gwen knows she’s entered a whole new world of trouble. She’s been raised never to trust a dragon. So why does making a deal with the devil feel so good?
5. The lead characters are fierce.
6. There’s a battle for the throne so there’s quite a serving of villains and an age old curse looming in the kingdom.
7. Oh, the romance! I should have started with that one, but hey, you’ll have to read it to know who’s called “Snookums.”
8. Great writing.

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC.

I really love this series. Five women, all born during the night the twin moons of this world ’embrace’. All children born on this nights are gifted with special talents but for a long time those children were also outcasts so the women were sent as young girls to an island to be raised in secret. They’re as close as sisters and Gwennore is kidnapped protecting one of the children of one of her sisters, willing to do anything in order to keep that little girl safe.

Gwennore is taken to the land of the dragons (Norveshka) and although they’ve kidnapped a princess, their motives are confusing. Gwennore realises that the country is hiding many secrets, including the truth about their powerful dragons and also stories of an ancient curse which has driven the ruling family mad for generations. General Silas Dravenko vows to return the young kidnapped princess to her parents but because of Gwennore’s gift he begs her to stay and help break the ‘curse’ and solve the terrible effects of the plague that regularly sweeps the land. Gwennore is reluctant…..but the General is pretty persuasive.

Silas appeared in the previous book assisting the pirate Rupert and the first Queen’s gift with the stones already predicted Gwennore’s destiny lay in the land of the dragons. As an Elf, this was surprising. Due to her isolation on the Isle of Moon for her protection, Gwennore has never even met another of her kind, although their reputation in the land of the dragons are of a savage killing race, regularly raiding across the shared border. The Norveshkans have been at war with the elves for years, so long that no one even know really knows why. Gwennore is surprised by how at home she feels in Norveshka, how beautiful she finds it, especially the forests. But she still wants to return to her sisters, despite the best efforts of the General.

Norveshka have closely guarded their secrets and because of this, Silas spends a lot of time either lying to Gwennore or not telling her key things or pretending he doesn’t know other things. It’s not really a deliberate attempt to be manipulative, but it sort of comes off that way because she keeps asking him to be honest with her and he keeps not being able to because of who he is and the Norveshkan history. Gwennore is achingly slow to connect the dots at some stages – she’s rescued during the kidnap by a dragon, who she can communicate with directly by hearing his thoughts and answering him. This is curious because as an Elf, Gwennore shouldn’t be able to hear the dragons. It takes her an astonishingly long time to figure out why the dragon keeps coming when she asks it to. But it makes things an awful lot easier when she does.

I liked the way that this book both had a mystery that was contained to the local area (the curse, the plague and the effects on the population) as well as continuing the mystery that has run through the previous two books with the Chameleon attempting to manipulate the monarchy in yet another nation. The new rulers are working together to learn more about him but so much is still unknown – his true form, for a start. Which makes it incredibly difficult to know when he’s around. Usually it’s not until his plans are well underway and someone recognises the pattern and by then it’s hard to know what form he’s taking. As a shifter, he can basically be anyone or anything and they really need Brody, a shifter himself, around who can smell his ‘signature’. With each instalment it gets more interesting and I can’t wait for the endgame.

I would’ve liked a little more romance in this one – it’s there but Gwennore stands quite firm against Silas for the longest time, because she believes she’ll never be accepted in his land (especially because of who Silas is) due to the long and bloody history they have with the elves. He’s pretty open about what he wants and I did like the ‘rules for dating a dragon’ that he invents as a bit of fun. Gwennore has been very sheltered in her upbringing so she’s pretty (ok very) inexperienced and she’s horrified when people assume that they are lovers. I loved the revelations about her background though and I’m pretty curious to see the land of the elves….hopefully that happens in the next book (the stones! the stones!).

These are good fun and I’m always excited to see a new one and satisfied when I finish one.

8/10

Once again I have started a series at the end instead of the beginning. I was fortunate to be granted an ARC of this book by the publisher, I am reviewing of my own volition. I confess I am now totally hooked on the series.

When the little Eberoni Princess Eviana is snatched up by a dragon, Gwennore grabs ahold and doesn't let go. The bad news the dragon manages to shake her loose, the good news the dragon chasing after the first one is able to catch her, saving her from certain death.

The exchanges between Gwennore and the dragon are hysterical given the circumstances, and I found myself laughing out loud when she 'named' the dragon Puff.

Since "Puff's" brother is responsible for the kidnapping, and well Puff's dragon, a relationship is sort of difficult. Once they arrive at the Castle it becomes apparent that the queen is ill and looking to replace her deceased children. The King has to be convinced to return the child, and the General want's Gwennore's help in finding the answer to the queen's illness.

An awesome world that has me wanting to read the series from the beginning. The difficulties Gwennore faces as she attempts to solve the mystery of 'the curse' will keep you spellbound. As for her relationships with General Silas and the dragon 'Puff', well I found myself laughing out loud many times, and holding my breath in at others.

Definitely one to add to your to be read piles!

This is my first book by Kerrelyn Sparks but I was hooked, she creates such a wonderful world and the blossoming love between Gwen and Silas is just perfect

Dragons, elves, trolls, sorcerers, fortune tellers, healers and secret detectors! Oh my!! With all of these things, what could be better??? I've loved every second of each book and I think each one has gotten better. Amazing characters, great obstacles to overcome, and steamy love scenes! Oh my! I want more, more, more!!!

Loved this book, couldn't put it down
I didn't think I would love this series, but I have loved each book so far.
I was sooooo wrapped up in this book!!
I think this was my favorite so far in the series.
This book covered it all: dragons, trolls, deceit, poison, love, queens & kings, and so much more.
We learned a little more about the chameleon, and more about Sorcha and Gwen.
I can't wait for more!

*I received my copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review

Can I just say WOW? Kerrelyn Sparks has DEFINITELY done it again!!! I thought I loved her before when reading her Vampire novels but oh my gosh I'm fully gone now! This series is AMAZING!! Eight Simple Rules for Dating a Dragon will keep you so enthralled that you will absolutely be unable to put it down for fear you will miss something! I was taken through so many emotions I felt like I was on a roller coaster ride. This is truly a MUST BUY series!! She is a brilliant author and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next! I received the ARC for this via NetGalley and I voluntarily read and willingly write the review for this book. All opinions are honest and only my own. Regards: Anna

Others have summarized the story , so I will not do that here. First, based on the title I was expecting a modern romantic comedy - that is not this book! It is more of an old world fantasy - lords and ladies, elves and dragon shifters. The world building was done well, this is the third in a series which was new to me, and I was never lost. The opening sequence was the highlight for me - kidnapped by dragons! Then it slowed way down. The source of the King and Queen's poisoning was unique and well thought out; but the loss of fertility nation wide - not so much. I loved the ancient tree connection, but it was never completed. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This book has the potential to be so much more!

Rule Number One: When a dragon takes you for a ride, hold on tight and never let go.</em>

FINAL DECISION: Romance, political intrigue and a big dose of humor make this book particularly enjoyable to read. The focus here is more on the mystery of what is going on, but I really enjoyed the humor combined with the romance with Silas and Gwen.

THE STORY: As one of the Embraced (those born with magical powers), Gwenmore becomes enmeshed in political intrigue and curses when she is abducted by a dragon when protecting a young girl. An elf, Gwen has the curious ability to hear the dragons. That talent, plus another one, makes her valuable to General Silas Dravenko, who is trying to prove that misdeeds and not curses are what threaten his people. He intends to use Gwen to find the danger, but he is slowly seduced by the elf -- who should be an enemy but shatters all his walls.

OPINION: I really enjoyed the tone of this book. The book isn't a comedy, but it has a lighthearted and fun tone and made me smile.

A great portion of the book is about the mystery and political intrigue going on. i thought that story was really strong. Readers of the series will see that the stakes are rising and what is going on in the shadows is becoming more dangerous and blatant. But the end game still remains a mystery.

While I ultimately enjoyed the romance, I did think the beginning was too instant love, but thankfully the relationship is given some time to develop. Still things happen quickly. But the humor between Silas and Gwen make it all worth it. I loved their interactions which were sexy and funny at the same time.

There is a refreshing vulnerability for each of these characters. Silas has a tender heart even with his strength and cleverness. I also liked how Gwen grows during the story as she gains confidence and takes on a more active role in her own life.

The book has a similar basic storyline as the others in the series, but the individual flourishes mean that this book is not repetitive.  Also -- dragons.

Even three books into the series, I still want to see more of these characters. There are  still a bunch of mysteries left to be revealed.

WORTH MENTIONING: The ongoing story about the Chameleon is picked up and continued in this book.

CONNECTED BOOKS: EIGHT SIMPLE RULES FOR DATING A DRAGON is the third book in the Embraced series. While the romance in this book is self contained, there are overarching relationships that make this book better read as part of the series.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.

NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to prepare a review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

Eight Simple Rules For Dating a Dragon is a brilliant story that takes readers into another world where they can find out exactly what is needed to fall in love with a sexy dragon.

Gwenmore and Silas are strong, charismatic characters that are easily draw readers in and hold them hostage as they dazzle readers with excellent dialogue and magic and an exciting romance that has readers wanting what the couple have. The romance is full of sizzling chemistry and steamy love scenes but the relationship is not an easy one with lots of obstacles and emotional issues to overcome.

The plot is fast paced and full of anticipation building suspense and thrilling danger in a fascinating world where betrayal is around every corner and surprising twists keeps everyone on their toes. The well written world brings it all to vivid life, making it easy for readers to picture each and every scene and to really understand and know each character.

Kerrelyn Sparks has created a fantasy world that is exciting, captivating and full of wonderful characters and fascinating plots that easily draw readers in and keeps them completely enthralled from beginning to end. I have read all three books in the series which can be read as standalone and easily understood as each couple gets their own book but I think to get the best enjoyment and understanding of the entire plot they should be read in sequence. All three stories kept me glued to the pages and while I could not possibly tell you which book is my favorite, I really enjoyed spending time with Gwenmore and Griffin and I can’t wait to visit their world again.

I was captured and hooked on The Embraced series from the very first book. The series only gets richer, deeper and better as time goes on. Any of the books in this series “could” be read on its own, sure – but there is a world built in this series that grows, changes, and expands with each story. There are threads woven through all the books from the beginning so I believe Eight Simple Rules For Dating A Dragon is best experienced in order, by reading them all from the start. I know that not every reader can do that, yet I still believe you’ll get the most entertainment value from the series if you can.

Silas and Gwen make quite an amazing couple. On the surface they would be considered mortal enemies, but there is always more than just the surface to any person or situation. There were times when my heart ached for Gwen when the prejudice and disdain against her was so obvious and harsh. She’s trying to save people’s lives, and she’s treated this way. Silas is a character I can fall in love with very easily. He has hero written all over him but there is a gentle side to him as well. He does what he feels is best for his people, himself and also for Gwen. Watching these two fall deeper for each other was such a fun journey. With laughter, sexy moments and, at times, tears and anger, Silas and Gwen overcome so much to find their happy ending.

In this installment of The Embraced series you’ll find danger from an known source, heartbreak and healing, a captivating realistic world and more than one romance going on. You’ll also find a couple to enjoy, who have hidden parts to be revealed… in time. I’d happily recommend Eight Simple Rules For Dating A Dragon to any Paranormal Romance reader who enjoys a solid story, tight plots, a vivid world, a couple to get behind and great secondary characters. If you can, I’d strongly suggest reading this series from the start, if you can’t then you’ll still enjoy Silas and Gwen’s story immensely.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

This is an easy and enjoyable book. While somewhat predictable (who am I kidding, I knew what was going to happen long before it did) it is an easy read that pulled you into the world. I'll be blunt, this a fun, light read but its nothing that is particularly rememberable, at least for me.

A fast, fun read in keeping with the rest of the series. Unfortunately there was instalove, but at least the hero of the story was not brooding or cruel to the heroine. Because they basically got along from the start, with a few bumps, the physical attraction was believable. Even if declaring love and getting engaged was a bit of a stretch. I really like that Gwen lacked confidence, and gained more as the story went on. I also liked that the villain and his plan has become more complicated.The conflict has gone from one dimensional to layered and harder to beat. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

This book was just a whole lot of fun! I have been a huge fan of this series since I read an early copy of the first book so I was really looking forward to this newest installment. The fact that I knew that there would be dragons in the book made it all just a little bit better. I went into this book with some pretty high expectations and I am happy to report that they were all met. I read most of this book in a single sitting because I didn't want to put the book down.

This is the third book in the Embraced series and while this book could be read as a stand alone, I do think that this is a series that works best read in order whenever possible. I have grown to love the characters that appear in this series and had a nice time seeing how some of them are doing. This book focuses on Gwennore and it was really nice to get to know her better in this story. I really like Brody's character and was happy to find that he played a large role in this story as well.

Gwennore is an elf and like her adopted sisters she has a special power due to her birth date. She has the ability to determine the cause of an illness through touch which makes healing possible. She has a close relationship with her sister's daughter and doesn't hesitate to put her life on the line to protect the child when she is kidnapped by a dragon. Gwennore soon learns that she can speak to dragons and forms a bond with her rescuer, Puff.

Silas is highly respected and carries himself with authority. He is also very easy on the eyes and is the kind of man that can make things happen. He has decided to watch over Gwennore while she is at the castle and takes on the role of protector. With her skills as healer, she can help the people of his country along with the queen.

I loved Silas and Gwennore together. I really thought that all of their feelings towards each other felt completely authentic. Silas is able to see things in Gwennore that others have missed. She is used to be treated poorly because she is an elf so she is surprised to find that Silas is genuinely interested. They had a lot of chemistry together and I loved the spark that seemed to fill the page when they shared a scene.

I would recommend this series to others. This was a book that brought a big smile to my face as I turned the pages. I loved that there was just a bit of humor mixed into the story at just the right times. I cannot wait to read more books in this fun series.

I received an advance reader edition of this book from St. Martin's Press.

I was a little disappointed in this book, actually. There wasn't enough about the actual dragons in this dragon book. Also, I found the plot and the romance to be very slow moving. I felt like we went around in circles a lot and I found myself fighting the urge to skim quite frequently. I would have loved a little more steam between Gwen and Silas. They had the chemistry, but by the time we actually had any follow-through, I was too bored to care, which is a shame as this book had a lot of potential.

This is a fast-paced paranormal read with plenty of drama, suspense and is also fun and entertaining. Gwennore is an Elf and able to heal. When her niece is kidnapped she doesn’t plan on just letting her go and is taken to Norveshka. Now she will try to help the Dragons and try to find the cause of the curse, can she trust them? General Dravenko doesn’t trust Gwennore but needs her help, will they find out more about the curse? The chemistry is steamy and the story transports you to another place. A good read.

I received an advanced copy thru Net Gallery for an honest review. I truly loved Kerrelyn Sparks newest embraced novel. As soon as the book opens Kerrelyn Sparks whisks you away to Aerthlan to where people who are embraced can be truly who they are without fear of their lives. However, some are not truly happy of this change and will stop at nothing to take Aerthlan back to how it was before King Leofric. In Eight Simple Rule For Dating A Dragon is a testament of this.
Gwennore as a babe was taken to the Isle of Moon because she was rejected by her family and everyone in the kingdom. The Isle of Moon is a safe haven for girls who are seen as different, or the parents fear for their children’s lives because of their difference. Once on the island, Gwennore has a new and fierce family. Her sisters: Lucinda, Brigitta, Sorcha, and Maeve are steadfast on protecting one another, being there for one another and family is not always connected by blood.
General Silas Dravenko lives in a cursed land that at times: cruel, unforgiving, and something dark is trying to pull the strings of the kingdom. When dragons take princess Eviana (daughter of King Leofric and Queen Lucinda), and Gwennore against their will to Dreshka, Norveski, Gwennore senses something off about some of the noble people. Despite of how unpleasant she is received, she knows her embraced gifts could help.
As General Silas and Gwennore get to know one another, Gwennore tells Silas that something is truly wrong with the Queen, and she (Gwennore) can help. Despite the protest from the King Petras, Silas trusts Gwennore and her embraced powers, to help save the Royals and everyone else in the kingdom.
Thank you Kerrelyn Sparks for writing another wonderful, fanciful, action packed filled and romantic novel. You kept me up at night (which I did not mind), with your creative verse, and wanting to live in Aerthlan. I am already looking for the next book coming out.

This book was the first for me in this new series by Kerrelyn Sparks, and I loved it. So much so I will be purchasing the previous books. This is the story of Gwennore and General Silas Dravenko., though their first meeting is a dragon and maiden elf. While trying to protect her niece she is taken by a dragon and saved by another. She names her hero Puff, ironically it is the General though she isn't aware. Arriving to a kingdom shroud in an ancient curse, she soon agrees to help. All the while fighting an attraction to the mysterious yet handsome General, while trying to help lift an ancient curse. Gwen will find a love she can't deny and get the happy ever after she didn't think she could have.

Welcome to the wonderful world of fantasy and romance: The Embraced. As nations war and history is in the cusp of change, Gwennore is becoming restless as an elf in a human realm. She’s looking for some escape; but capture by dragon is not something she could’ve planned for. Arriving in the strange mad world of Norveshka she meets their General, Silas. As more secrets about the kingdom come to light Gwennore has to decide: risk a future of persecution or her own happy ever after.

When you hear comparisons to Game of Thrones and other fantasy series, know that is so accurate! Sparks paints an elegant picture of different non-humans and magic induced humans mixed in a world of dragons, trolls, and elves. While the story has a romantic aspect there’s always a larger picture of danger and espionage. The elusive Chameleon from previous books has returned and is after another crown. As Gwennore and Silas begin to unravel the curse upon his kingdom and family, she begins to discover more secrets from his past. Silas is not all he’s portrayed to be; and Gwennore has some serious decisions to make on what she’s willing to handle for her future.

Sparks’ world building leaves nothing to the imagination. From a lands to creatures and even forms of travel, everything in her Embraced series is fantastical and wonderful for the creative mind. I highly enjoyed the twists and surprise in Gwennore and Silas’ story and I can’t wait for more of the sisters’ tales!

The Embraced #3, I love each book more and more. Each of the sisters, so far, have had their own style to fit there story. How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days very much felt like I was reading a fairy tale, So I Married a Sorcerer felt like a old pirate romance to me. I don't have a point of reference for dragon fantasy, (only other dragon shifter modern romance) so I couldn't tell you if it had that feel to it, but I loved it; ancient curses, kidnapped Princess', mountain trolls, conspiracies to overthrow the King, dragons, a great HEA, what's not to love. I especially loved that there are actually eight rules for dating a dragon. It's just stuff that Silas makes up for Gwennore especially after she starts calling his dragon Puff, and he starts teasing her about liking Puff more than she likes him, but of course at the time she doesn't know that Silas and Puff are one in the same. Rule number one for dating a dragon when he takes you for a ride hold on tight and never let go. Rule number four: Never tell his secrets. Whenever he tells her a new rule it's always pertinent to the story at the time. Number five is my favorite, Beware of kissing a dragon, he won't burn you but he might make you melt, and Silas will make you melt.

It's been about three years since the events of the last book and Gwennore has put up with a lot of crap and discrimination from people in court, being elf hasn't helped her even if two of her sisters are Queens. The only reason she says is for the kids. One particularly beautiful day everyone is enjoying a birthday picnic celebration when Gwennore and Eviana, Luciana's little girl, are out picking flowers when out of nowhere a dragon grabs Eviana, without even thinking Gwennore jumps on the dragon and tries to free Eviana but she gets taken away too. Not long after another dragon shows up and catches Gwennore after she loses grip and falls off the first dragon. Gwennore realizes she can hear the dragons talking and can communicate with them also. Her dragon promises that everything will be alright. But it's not alright, when they reach Norveshka Gwennore discovers the Queen is dying and going crazy and the King isn't any better off. General Silas makes a deal with her that they will send Eviana home right way if Gwennore stays for a month and tries to cure the Queen. With the deal struck Gwennore strives to find out as much about the curse and the Queen's illness as possible.

Gwennore and Silas have such a witty rapport with each other. She tries so hard not to show she likes him and is utterly embarrassed when she learns that not only can he read her mind but two other people can also and she's been calling Silas General Gorgeous. Silas is enthralled with Gwennore and has no problem letting people think she's his mistress, Gwennore has a problem with it but it's not long before she lets her feeling be known. But she holds out, I'm proud of her, she holds out on succumbing to his smoldering kisses and hot looks until over half way through the book.

Silas for being the badass general and big bad dragon, he's such a sweetie; he's very protective of Gwennore and when he finds out that it's Eviana's birthday he has the cook bake her a cake. Gwennore really grows as a character growing up so isolated then spending time in court and being excluded and insulted she finally has the chance to come out of her shell and find out who she really is, and not to mention Silas finds out who she really is as in who her parents are... yep. On top of the curse the Chameleon is back and trying once again to overthrow the king only this time they find out more about who is behind it but as one question get answered five more pop up.

Overall, I am so loving this series and I really hope Sorcha is next because white and lavender equals royal elves *excited squeal*.