dragons_choice DRAGON'S CHOICE
by April Reid
ISBN:1-59279-571-4 (Electronic)
Graphic Sexual Content/Graphic Language
Cover by Trace Edward Zaber
Copyright ©2006

AVAILABLE NOW! at: AMBER HEAT  Fictionwise &  Amazon.com/Kindle

Since the day Shimmara d' Assana had been chosen to become the bride of the Dragon King, her only consolation was the bride price paid to her impoverished family, and her secret dreams of desire for her bodyguard. Now the wedding day has arrived. Tonight she will be chained to the sacred Bride's Pillar and wait for the dragon king to claim his bride. Tonight, she will die.

Rion d' Vortimer knows he shouldn't be attracted to Shimmara. He's been her bodyguard for a year and has done everything to avoid giving in to passion. But their sexual desire for each other is too great. And fully aware they both risk a horrific death, they make love. Rion is determined to fight to his death to keep Shimmara safe, even though doing so may reveal a secret that could tear them apart.


EXCERPT:

Shimmara d'Assana, soon to be bride of the Dragon King, woke as the last pale rays of light from the smaller moon, Zurir, washed across her face.

Yawning, she stretched her arms wide in the predawn coolness, then snuggled back into the warmth of the cazwool covers. She'd dreamed of the warrior prince again, a guilty secret she hid from everyone, even her bodyguard, Rion.

I shared your dreams, her female fairy-dragon, Cherry, said mentally from its place on a pillow beside Shimmara. You do well to hide your thoughts from all who live in this place.

Shimmara stroked the iridescent red and silver scales on the dainty head and muzzle of her forever-friend. You taught me how to hide my thoughts, even from the great dragons of Cymbria who fly overhead on their way to other lands.

Cherry spread her red wings with their delicate tracings of green and silver, then folded them neatly along her sides. Those beings are peaceful, not like the dragon king.

He's as evil as the one who used to raid Standing Stone meadow. Lost in memories of home, Shimmara rubbed the scar on the underside of her right wrist.

Dearling the fairy-dragon spread her wings and gave a little hop speaking of a raid, the Shagar trees are loaded with ripe fruit, and I haven't eaten in hours.

Shimmara gave a soft laugh and sat up. We can't let you waste away to a shadow. That handsome green male I saw you with two days ago would be disappointed.

Thinking of another attractive male, she looked to the other side of the sleeping chamber where Rion d?Vortimer slept across the inner door, blocking it with his body. Just looking at him made her heart beat faster. She'd hidden her desire for him because of the vow she'd made at eleven and renewed a year ago to be the betrothed of the dragon king. Her family and all the villagers whose lands and homes had been ravaged by the rogue dragons depended on her to meet the price of peace.

Closing her eyes as if to shut out the coming task, Shimmara took a deep breath, then slowly exhaled. She would keep her promise no matter how difficult.

While these thoughts flashed across her mind, she gazed at Rion, taking advantage of the rare opportunity to see him asleep. His face was in shadows, but the curved blade of the lethal sword close to his hand glimmered in the faint light. For the last year, since the moment she'd been selected as this year's bride for the dragon king, Rion had watched over her, keeping her safe from those who wanted to ravage the chosen bride...

AVAILABLE NOW FROM AMBER HEAT & Amazon.com/Kindle


REVIEWS:

4 Angels
The Dragon's Choice is set in a fantasy realm where young girls are picked to fulfill a very important role for the people, giving up everything they dream of in the process. Shimmara dreams of having the strong arms of Rion wrapped around her. Not only does she dream of a wonderful, passionate man, she has a delightful, compassionate spirit that readers will love. Rion is an honorable man who finds himself desiring the one person he should never want. April Reid managed to craft a quick read that will not only offer readers passion between two characters readers will instantly like, but she also weaves in some characters readers will definitely love to hate. This reviewer found this story a delightful tale to spend a lazy afternoon reading.” - Reviewed by: Jessica, Fallen Angel Reviews

4 ½ Rings
Heat Level 1 ½
April Reid has penned an exciting tale. Shimmara, Rion and even the adorable fairy-dragon, Cherry, leave a lasting impression on the reader. The Dragon's Choice is a story full of action, adventure, true love and deep sacrifice. Shimmara is a beautiful woman, in both courage and spirit while Rion is a dedicated warrior in body and soul. My only wish was that The Dragon's Choice had been longer! It would also be wonderful to hear King Cedric's story. I highly recommend reading this book.” - Reviewer Kerin, EuroReviews

4 ½ Stars
Heat Level S
The Dragon's Choice is a touching quick read that really packs a punch. This story has a little bit of everything to keep any reader happy and engrossed in its pages. The characters are believable, and Shimmara and Rion show a level of courage when facing adversity that easily leaves the reader in awe. Shimmara's outlook on her last day alive touches your heart and leaves a smile on your face. When Shimmara and Rion make love despite the consequences, you know that what they feel goes beyond what mere words can describe. The story is quick to sweep you away into the land of dragons and left me wishing for more. With the addition of a few of Rion's relatives towards the end of the story, I am hoping that Ms. Reid will be continuing these stories and give readers an action filled and emotionally charged series.” - Caye Kimberley, Just Erotic Romance Reviews

"April Reid packs a powerful punch in a short story. The Dragon's Choice has it all! Action, adventure, fantasy and erotica blend together to make a fast-paced tale. Whether writing as April Reid or Barbara Clark, this is one author you can count on for superior books."Tami, The Best Reviews

"...A fast, sexy read. I totally fell in love with the characters and truly hope to read more stories from this magical land. Rion and Shimmara are fantastic, brave, and loveable. The fairy-dragon, Cherry, is very cute and fun. This is a winner." Nancy Eleckes, Owner, Sunshine Books Bookstore

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