Traitors. Kings. Monsters. Love. What will it take to defeat a growing darkness? Deryk Returning home to the mountains had been the logical choice after the chaos in Alford, but I can't forget Ellie the way I thought I needed to. And now that shadow monsters are attacking again, she might be our kingdom's only hope for survival. Ellie Solvar is finally safe from my cousin's scheming and we've established a friendship—if fragile—with Mrita. I'm risking more than ever in politics, with my brother, and in publicity, but I'm happy with the way events are shifting. I just wish the situation with Deryk had ended differently. New experiences, dragons, mythical creatures, family relationships, life and death moments, conflicting desires, and imperfect characters weave together in this world where magic, light, and dark constantly battle for reign. Who will survive the monsters? Who will rule the kingdoms? And will the final results be worth the cost? A Dragon Outside concludes Deryk and Ellie's story (don't worry—other characters have their own books coming still)! This book is a no-spice fantasy romance with high stakes, adult characters, a slow-burn love story, incredible magic, deep lore, love, betrayals, and overcoming impossible odds. It is the second half of a duology. The slow-burn, no-spice romance is perfect for fans of books by authors like Tara Grayce and K.M. Shea.