Fans pick 66 books like Deven and the Dragon

By Eliot Grayson,

Here are 66 books that Deven and the Dragon fans have personally recommended if you like Deven and the Dragon. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Red Heir

Jane Buehler Author Of The Forest Bride

From my list on romance set in a lighthearted, cozy fantasy world.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have always loved fantasy worlds and romantic stories, but in recent years I’ve found it harder to read stories with extreme violence or trauma. When I started writing fiction, I planned to write a fantasy romance with a kingdom and a battle, but I couldn’t do it—my characters organized a nonviolent revolution and formed a democratic system of governance instead. I reconsidered and decided to write what I call cozy fantasy romances. So many types of romance novels could be set in a fantasy world, such as an office romance or road trip comedy. I’ve been searching for these types of romance novels—fun, lighthearted romances set in a fantasy world—and am slowly finding them.

Jane's book list on romance set in a lighthearted, cozy fantasy world

Jane Buehler Why did Jane love this book?

This book made me laugh out loud so many times—it's the funniest fantasy I have ever read. An oddball crew breaks into the protagonist’s prison cell to rescue a prince, so the protagonist claims to be the prince and is rescued along with his cellmate.

The journey back to the prince’s country is a road trip comedy with a wacky cast... but amid all the crude jokes are real emotional moments and characters being kind to each other. The protagonist can’t stop himself from falling for the prince and grows as a person in the process. Nothing about the story ever gets too serious, and the bad bits happen quickly and without prolonged trauma. I loved everything about it.

By Lisa Henry, Sarah Honey,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Red Heir as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


Book cover of The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy

Jane Buehler Author Of The Forest Bride

From my list on romance set in a lighthearted, cozy fantasy world.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have always loved fantasy worlds and romantic stories, but in recent years I’ve found it harder to read stories with extreme violence or trauma. When I started writing fiction, I planned to write a fantasy romance with a kingdom and a battle, but I couldn’t do it—my characters organized a nonviolent revolution and formed a democratic system of governance instead. I reconsidered and decided to write what I call cozy fantasy romances. So many types of romance novels could be set in a fantasy world, such as an office romance or road trip comedy. I’ve been searching for these types of romance novels—fun, lighthearted romances set in a fantasy world—and am slowly finding them.

Jane's book list on romance set in a lighthearted, cozy fantasy world

Jane Buehler Why did Jane love this book?

From the first page to the end, this story hooked me with its enemies-to-lovers romance. It has a cast of great characters, all of them well-developed, and a huge dollop of conflict (Mercy saving the family undertaking business, Hart fighting zombie-like monsters) without constant stress. The romance progresses at the perfect pace.

I especially loved the world: it’s so calm and, at times, funny, even with the zombies. I loved that the gods and religion in the world feel tangible as if the gods have only recently departed; the religion is peaceful and brings people comfort. I was nervous to read about undertaking and zombies, but the rituals for death in the book’s world felt caring and kind.

By Megan Bannen,

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"A uniquely charming mixture of whimsy and the macabre that completely won me over. If you ever wished for an adult romance that felt like Howl's Moving Castle, THIS IS THAT BOOK." —Helen Hoang, author of The Kiss Quotient

Hart is a marshal, tasked with patrolling the strange and magical wilds of Tanria. It’s an unforgiving job, and Hart’s got nothing but time to ponder his loneliness.  

Mercy never has a moment to herself. She’s been single-handedly keeping Birdsall & Son Undertakers afloat in defiance of sullen jerks like Hart, who seems to have a gift for showing up right…


Book cover of That Time I Got Drunk And Saved A Demon

Caitriona Drexler Author Of The White Enchantress

From my list on swoon-worthy that take you to a different world.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been making up characters and telling myself stories for as long as I can remember. I’m also a mood reader. I’ll read just about anything, but the stories I always yearn for are the ones that take me far away from this world, make me swoon, and devastate my soul. As a mood reader, I also have phases, and I’m in a fantasy phase right now. Magic, romance, adventure. These are just a few of my favorite things to read and write. As I read, I am inspired by the emotions that flood my senses when I read a good book. 

Caitriona's book list on swoon-worthy that take you to a different world

Caitriona Drexler Why did Caitriona love this book?

I loved how different this fantasy rom-com was from anything I had read before picking it up. From the meet-cute to the epilogue, I adored all of it. I was shocked at first by the contemporary language and the modern world-building within a traditional fantasy setting.

The MFC was relatable, reacting to the crazy world around her as I’d imagine I would if I were taken on a wild adventure with a dragon shape-shifter. Funny, witty, steamy, and exciting. This book had it all.

Book cover of How to Get a Girlfriend

Jane Buehler Author Of The Forest Bride

From my list on romance set in a lighthearted, cozy fantasy world.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have always loved fantasy worlds and romantic stories, but in recent years I’ve found it harder to read stories with extreme violence or trauma. When I started writing fiction, I planned to write a fantasy romance with a kingdom and a battle, but I couldn’t do it—my characters organized a nonviolent revolution and formed a democratic system of governance instead. I reconsidered and decided to write what I call cozy fantasy romances. So many types of romance novels could be set in a fantasy world, such as an office romance or road trip comedy. I’ve been searching for these types of romance novels—fun, lighthearted romances set in a fantasy world—and am slowly finding them.

Jane's book list on romance set in a lighthearted, cozy fantasy world

Jane Buehler Why did Jane love this book?

In this novella, a human witch from an Earth-like world falls for a life-form from another dimension, who is a fragment of the all-consuming being who fills her dimension and occasionally breaks through to the human planet and devours people. Trillan struggles to maintain a humanoid shape so she won’t scare off Sian, while Sian tries to keep her mind on her research and off of the ethically gray area of getting it on with her research subject. The whole thing is completely adorable and sweet.

By Marie Cardno,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked How to Get a Girlfriend as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Life is tough when you're an eldritch abomination.


Trillin isn't technically a person. She's a tiny breakaway piece of consciousness from the all-devouring Endless, doomed to eventually rejoin it. But when a human witch stumbles into her world, Trillin suddenly has a new reason to figure out individuality-one shape-shifting tentacle at a time.


Sian is sure important magical discoveries are just around the corner, if she can just get her portals to work reliably. Reaching the dimension of the Endless without being eaten on sight is a dream come true, and Sian is determined to explore every bit of it.…


Book cover of Dragon Actually

Catherine Edward Author Of Lycan's Blood Queen

From my list on fantasy/shifter romance to make your heart flutter.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a paranormal romance and fantasy author who fell in love with fantasy as a young girl. My journey as a reader started when I was four, but what changed me entirely was Russian Tales woven with magic. I’m passionate about Lycans, Werewolves, Witches, Vampires, and everything that’s magical. I like to write sizzling tales of love and betrayal.

Catherine's book list on fantasy/shifter romance to make your heart flutter

Catherine Edward Why did Catherine love this book?

Annwyl is always known for her strength and brutality. But when she is betrayed she has only one place to go.

When mortally injured Annwyl take refuge in a cave, the dragon Fearghus is her only companion. What she doesn’t know is that Fearghus is actually a dragon shifter, son of the dragon queen. This entire series is amazing. Filled with fantasy elements, romance and humor this definitely tops my top 5 list of shifter romance.

By G.A. Aiken,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Dragon Actually as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

It's not always easy being a female warrior with a nickname like Annwyl the Bloody. Men tend to either cower in fear—a lot—or else salute. It's true that Annwyl has a knack for decapitating legions of her ruthless brother's soldiers without pausing for breath. But just once it would be nice to be able to really talk to a man, the way she can talk to Fearghus the Destroyer.

Too bad that Fearghus is a dragon, of the large, scaly, and deadly type. With him, Annwyl feels safe—a far cry from the feelings aroused by the hard-bodied, arrogant knight Fearghus…


Book cover of Given

Elana A. Mugdan Author Of Dragon Speaker

From my list on for people who love dragons as central characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

Dragons are my passion, I've lovingly been referred to as The World's Foremost Dragon Authority, and I've made it my mission to consume as much dragon media as I can. As someone who also loves science, I'm especially drawn to media that addresses draconic physiology, evolution, and culture. I can name every taxonomic family, genus, and species in the order Draconidae, and there's nothing I love more than sharing my dragon knowledge and stories with others!

Elana's book list on for people who love dragons as central characters

Elana A. Mugdan Why did Elana love this book?

Given is a fantasy romance, centering on the relationship between Yenni and Weysh. Yenni is a princess of the Yirba who ventures to a distant land to seek a magical cure for her ailing father; Weysh is a charming and troublesome dragon shapeshifter who believes Yenni is his Given, or destined mate.

In addition to offering a unique spin on dragons, Given has wonderful world building. We learn about the intertwined history of three cultures: the Yirba, the Creshens, and the once-mighty dragons. While the draconic aspect is what drew me to this book, I also loved learning about the magic system, and how each culture approaches magic use. The romance is sweet and understated, and is well balanced with Yenni and Weysh's personal goals.

By Nandi Taylor,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Given as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

As a princess of the Moonrise Isles and one of its fiercest warriors, Yenni has always put duty before her own desires. When her father falls gravely ill, she knows she must find the cure and sets out on an arduous journey that takes her to a magical academy in the far reaches of the Empire of Cresh.

There is no room for failure, but Yenni struggles to learn the strange magic of Cresh as a cure continues to evade her. And complicating matters is Weysh, a dragon shifter who says Yenni is his Given―his one true partner ordained by…


Book cover of A Ruin of Roses

Stephanie Storm Author Of The Witch Clans: The Heritage

From my list on YA fantasy with strong female characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

Stephanie Storm is a talented young adult fantasy author whose writing is reminiscent of classic fantasy novels with a modern twist. Her imaginative storytelling and richly developed characters draw readers into immersive worlds filled with magic, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes. Her writing style is enchanting, capturing the hearts of readers of all ages and leaving them eagerly turning pages late into the night. Growing up with her nose buried in a book, she found solace and inspiration in the escapism and limitless possibilities of the genre. Her imagination was sparked by the enchanting stories she devoured, which fuelled her passion for writing and creating her own fantastical tales.

Stephanie's book list on YA fantasy with strong female characters

Stephanie Storm Why did Stephanie love this book?

This is a refreshingly unique take on a classic fairy tale that we all know and love with some very dark themes.

This is my first book series with this author and she got me to laugh, cry and root for these characters that she’s created. I was so sad when I finished this series!

By K.F. Breene,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Ruin of Roses as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

I could save him, but he would ruin me.

The beast.
The creature that stalks the forbidden wood.
The dragon prince.

He has suffered a fate worse than death. We all have. A curse put upon us by the mad king.

We are a kingdom locked in time. Shifters unable to feel our animals. Stuck here by a deal between the late king and a demon who seeks our destruction.

The only one keeping this kingdom alive is Nyfain, the golden prince to a stolen throne. The last dragon shifter.

He’s our hope.
He’s my nightmare.

When he catches me…


Book cover of Dragonswan

M.B. Strang Author Of Arrow's Flight: A Knights of the Pearl Order Novel

From my list on fantasy dragons from someone who loves them.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since childhood, I have been enthralled by dragons. The stories of these mythical creatures can be told in so many ways, from dragons as pets to bonding with them or even shapeshifting into them. I chose these books because they are memorable, they have stuck with me, and they have fascinated and inspired me for years. All of these writers have influenced my own work, and they are sure to resonate with you, too.

M.B.'s book list on fantasy dragons from someone who loves them

M.B. Strang Why did M.B. love this book?

This book features human/dragon shapeshifters, which is an idea I love. What fun it would be to change into a dragon!

The combination of shapeshifters and romance made this short book enjoyable. I don’t read a lot of love stories, but when I do, I like fantasy romance, and this fits the bill. 

By Sherrilyn Kenyon,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dragonswan as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

When scholar Channon MacRea meets the handsome Sebastian who claims to understand the legendary Dragon Tapestry she's been studying for years, she follows him into an alternate world of magic and danger.


Book cover of Siren's Song

C. Y. Croc Author Of Matched to Xycho

From my list on sci-fi romance and fantasy with unearthly beings.

Why am I passionate about this?

UK-born CY Croc started her career in the health industry, but later changed professions after obtaining a postgraduate degree in teaching. It was while teaching she discovered her dream profession. An author was invited to the school to showcase her latest book. Inspired, CY wrote over 30 books in the next 3 years in contemporary, sci-fi, and paranormal romance. She loves to include positive subliminal messages in her stories about body image, prejudice, and love from a higher realm and always practices inclusion in her writing. Her main characters practice autonomy and come from all races. CY believes everyone should experience love, and that's why some of her protagonists are not of this world.

C. Y.'s book list on sci-fi romance and fantasy with unearthly beings

C. Y. Croc Why did C. Y. love this book?

This story follows the blossoming romance of a half-blood siren Adelle and a nine-hundred-year-old dragon, who is commissioned with the task of protecting her while he helps her to tease out and control her siren song. This enemy-to-lover romance has fantastic world building that continues throughout the series with Adelle’s sister’s stories.

By Cynthia Diamond,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Siren's Song as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

She refuses to give into her nature. He’s built tough walls around desire. Will they survive the heat of a scorching affair?

Adelle Constance buries her feelings for good reason. Despite needing her sister to rescue her from her vampire ex, the half-blood siren doesn’t dare risk unleashing her own terrifying powers. But she hates being saddled with a cranky fire-breathing guardian to teach her the art of control.

Jack swore to stay away from heartbreak. So when he’s tricked into a vow of protection over his ex-girlfriend’s imperiled cousin, the nine-hundred-year-old dragon can’t wait to get her trained and…


Book cover of Anita and the Dragons

Brigita Orel Author Of The Pirate Tree

From my list on new beginnings.

Why am I passionate about this?

When I first started writing in English, which is my second language, I was reluctant to share my work with others. I was terrified they would find it lacking. It takes a lot of effort and research to write authentically for a foreign audience. I studied creative writing at different universities around the world to gain knowledge and experience. I published short stories and poems in online and print journals. Bit by bit, I gathered the courage to submit my first picture book manuscript.

Brigita's book list on new beginnings

Brigita Orel Why did Brigita love this book?

Moving to a new place can be daunting for adults and more so for children. Airplanes turn into dragons and the new home into a terrifying place. It takes courage to emigrate and imagination to adapt. Anita’s story stayed with me long after I finished it. And Anna Cunha’s illustrations are exquisite.

By Hannah Carmona, Anna Cunha (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Anita and the Dragons as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A beautifully tender story touching on the range of emotions immigrants may feel when leaving their home countries – excitement and sorrow, fear and courage.

Anita watches the dragons high above her as she hops from one cement roof to another in her village in the Dominican Republic. But being the valiant princesa she is, she never lets them scare her. Will she be brave enough to enter the belly of the beast and take flight to new adventures?

A Barnes & Noble Bookseller Favorite. A BookTrust Book of the Month. A Love Reading For Schools Book of the Month.…


Book cover of Red Heir
Book cover of The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy
Book cover of That Time I Got Drunk And Saved A Demon

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