Book Review - Love, Lies, and Ley Lines

 

Love, Lies, and Ley Lines (The Fast & the Fae #1)

by Jeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

It’s been years since the infamous smuggling team of Bandit and Goldilocks thumbed their noses at the fae authorities, running the priceless magical pixie dust desired by everyone from hedge witches to the storied magic academies. No one in the human principalities controlled by the fae can work even the simplest spells without the stuff. And without fae magic, humans will find themselves back in the dark ages of disease and fast mortality. But the enigmatic fae keep a tight grip on their monopoly of pixie dust, charging extortionate prices at their whim.

Bandit has been doing her best to get by on her racing wins and the quick thrill of one-night stands while her former partner and best friend, the powerful sorceress known as Goldilocks, is off playing house and having babies. But when Bandit gets the offer of a lifetime, she convinces Goldilocks to come out of retirement for one last, hugely profitable gig.

And if the Bandit picks up a mysterious and seductive hitchhiker fleeing his wedding, well that just adds a bit of spice to the job. When he refuses to tell her his name, she dubs him Prince Charming and only regrets that she won’t have time to find out more about her enticing companion—and what he looks like under those fancy clothes.

As the Bandit and Prince Charming run distraction for Goldilocks and her precious haul, they face untold dangers penetrating the arcane fae realms.

All for gold, glory, and maybe even true love.

What did I think of it:

Do you even need to ask?!

Jeffe Kennedy isn't my favorite author for nothing: this book is yet another winner!

This book had Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves vibes, but did it so much better in my opinion. They absolutely should make a movie based on Love, Lies, and Ley Lines. I'd watch the shit of out of it while also rereading this book.

I absolutely fell in love with Cha & her best friend, had my doubts about Prince Charming as well as finding him super intriguing, and couldn't get enough of the cool world Jeffe created for this thrilling adventure.

You bet I finished this in one day and that I'm now eager for the next book!

Why should you read it:

It's such a cool and delicious read!

Go Buy Here

Never the Roses - Release Day Book Review

 

Never the Roses

by Jennifer K. Lambert

What is it about:

Genevieve Gornichec’s The Witch’s Heart meets Madeline Miller’s Circe in this epic and deeply emotional romantic fantasy debut by Jennifer K. Lambert. The hardcover edition features beautiful stenciled edges.

The Dread Sorceress Oneira has retired. She’s exhausted from fighting the endless wars of kings and queens, and has long accepted that her death is near. Alone at last but for a few uninvited companions―a near-mythical wolf, a goddess’s avatar, and a feline that embodies magic itself―Oneira realizes that she’s bored. On a whim, or perhaps at the behest of fate, she makes an unlikely trip to the most extensive library in existence: the home of her most powerful rival, the sorcerer Stearanos.

By recklessly stealing a book from him, Oneira inadvertently initiates a forbidden correspondence. Taunting notes and clever retorts reveal a connection neither has found―nor could ever find―in any other.

But Oneira soon learns that Stearanos, bound to a vile king, is tasked with waging war on the queen she once served. A relationship with him is far too dangerous to pursue despite their mutual desire―and yet, Oneira can’t seem to stay away.

A bond with Stearanos could alight the long-extinct flame of life within her… or it could destroy her entirely.

What did we think of it:

We read the first version of this story before it was sold to Bramble/TOR and loved it.

So when we received this gorgeous finished version of Never the Roses we had to do a reread of course.

(spoiler: it won't be our last reread)

This is such a wonderful and emotional story.

The writing is beautiful and haunting, from the first few sentences we were glued to the pages. 

Both Oneira and Stearanos are characters to root for. Oneira is tired of the life she's lived and is looking for either redemption or judgement without realizing it. Stearanos is still in the middle of things, but as bitter and grumpy as a sorcerer who's been used as a tool of war for most of his life can be.

We wanted to see both of them happy, loved.

The way they start connecting with each other through their correspondence, the way they reacted to it, was wonderful to read. 

Even with this being a reread we were totally engrossed, and this was yet another book we read in one long sitting, as we couldn't put it down.

If not for our TBR mountain glaring at us, we'd have done another reread immediately after finishing this one, it's that beautiful!

There will be a second book in this world, and hopefully many more, and we know it will be as amazing as this one, so we'll be (im)patiently wait for the release next year, while rereading this book once in a while when our TBR mountain isn't paying attention.

Why should you read it:

It's absolutely beautiful and amazing!

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On McPig's Radar - Never the Roses

 

Did I already read this? 

Yes!

Am I still totally looking forward to getting this beauty in my eager trotters? 

YES!

Believe me: you want this book! 

It's utterly amazing and beautiful in and out! 

Go preorder: I totally did.

Never the Roses

by Jennifer K. Lambert

UNSTOPPABLE WAR. UNSPEAKABLE SINS. IMPOSSIBLE LOVE.

Genevieve Gornichec’s The Witch’s Heart meets Madeline Miller’s Circe in this epic and deeply emotional romantic fantasy debut by Jennifer K. Lambert. The hardcover edition features beautiful stenciled edges.

The Dread Sorceress Oneira has retired. She’s exhausted from fighting the endless wars of kings and queens, and has long accepted that her death is near. Alone at last but for a few uninvited companions―a near-mythical wolf, a goddess’s avatar, and a feline that embodies magic itself―Oneira realizes that she’s bored. On a whim, or perhaps at the behest of fate, she makes an unlikely trip to the most extensive library in existence: the home of her most powerful rival, the sorcerer Stearanos.

By recklessly stealing a book from him, Oneira inadvertently initiates a forbidden correspondence. Taunting notes and clever retorts reveal a connection neither has found―nor could ever find―in any other.

But Oneira soon learns that Stearanos, bound to a vile king, is tasked with waging war on the queen she once served. A relationship with him is far too dangerous to pursue despite their mutual desire―and yet, Oneira can’t seem to stay away.

A bond with Stearanos could alight the long-extinct flame of life within her… or it could destroy her entirely.

Expected publication July 8, 2025

Five Golden Rings - Rereleasing Today!

This Totally Yummy Christmas Novella is rereleasing today! Go get it!

Read Voodoo Bride's review 

Five Golden Rings

by Jeffe Kennedy

The Twelve Days of Christmas were never quite this naughty…

All Matilda Campbell wanted was to spend a romantic and relaxing Christmas in the Mexican Caribbean. When her lover dumps her—at the airport, no less—she decides to go solo. But fate and a well-timed margarita intervene, introducing her to the charming and seductive Miguel D’Oro on the plane.

Miguel offers Tilda an outrageous bargain, involving escalating naughty gifts for each of the twelve days of Christmas. The only rule is that she must accept what he gives her and what he tells her to do, or face a sensual punishment. Giving up control is just what Tilda is looking for, so she impulsively agrees.

As Tilda embraces a newfound freedom in abandoning herself to pleasure and Miguel’s demands, she only wonders what will happen when the holiday is over…

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Release Day Alert - Rogue's Possession

 

Rogue's Possession (Covenant of Thorns #2)

by Jeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

One does not break an oath to the fae…

But I am getting much better at finding and exploiting the loopholes. I may have promised the ruthlessly sensual fae lord, Rogue, that he can sire my firstborn child—but I never said when. And I’m not giving into his will-eroding attempts to seduce me until he tells me what will happen to my child.

Which he refuses to do.

So, I’m holding out against his allure, no matter how he tantalizes me, because the one way to protect my child is to make sure they’re never born. Unfortunately, Rogue is as wily as he is persistent, and soon I find myself in more bargains—I must give him a kiss every day and sleep by his side at night. Even as I travel through Faerie, perfecting my sorceress skills and seeking the answers to the questions Rogue won’t—or can’t—answer, he is constantly by my side, working his way through my defenses.

He refuses to let me go. Most terrifying of all, I’m finding I don’t want him to…

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Release Alert: Rogue's Pawn

 

Rogue's Pawn

Be careful what you wish for…

When I walked out on my awful boyfriend, wishing to be somewhere—anywhere—else, I never expected to wake up in Faerie. And, as a scientist, I find it even harder to believe that I now seem to be a sorceress.

A pretty crappy sorceress, it turns out, because every thought that crosses my mind becomes suddenly and frighteningly real—including the black dog that has long haunted my nightmares.

Now I’m a captive, a pawn for the fae lord, Rogue, and the feral and treacherous Faerie court, all vying to control me and the vast powers I don’t understand. Worse, Rogue, the closest thing I have to a friend in this place, is intent on seducing me. He’s the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen, enthralling, tempting, and lethally dangerous. He’s as devastatingly clever as he is alluring, and he tricks me into promising him my firstborn child, which he intends to sire…

I don’t dare give into him. I may not have the willpower to resist him. He’s my only protection against those who would destroy me

Unless I can learn to use my magic.

Out Today!

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Rogue's Paradise - Book Review by Voodoo Bride (repost and reread)

 

Rogue's Paradise (Covenant of Thorns #3)

by Jeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

Faerie, the land of blood, magic, and betrayal…

At last, the fae lord, Rogue, has won everything. He has me in his home, his bed, and I’m desperately in love with him despite my best efforts and better judgment.

Did I mention I’m pregnant?

As our child grows inside me, the one I’m pledged to give to him, I still have no idea what will happen after the birth. Though Rogue is attentive in every way a woman could wish for, bringing me delirious pleasure and gifts beyond price, he still won’t—or can’t—tell me what game he’s playing. Or what the viciously sadistic Queen Titania has to do with our many bargains.

I’m most afraid that, if he betrays us, I’ll never be able to forgive him. Even though I can’t stop loving him.

As war threatens everything we’ve built, as my body swells with the enchanted pregnancy, I become more certain with every day that the true enemy lurks within our castle walls. And that the man I’ve vowed eternal commitment to, may be the last person I can trust…

What did Voodoo Bride think of it:

This is an awesome conclusion to a beautiful series.

The Covenant of Thorns series is not your normal Fantasy Romance: it's dark, gritty and with dangers lurking everywhere. Even now that Gwynn finally has accepted Rogue as her lover and they are together, Gwynn's problems are far from over. Is Rogue to be trusted? Will he stand by her side in her battle against Titania, or will he betray her, whether he wants to or not?

I have probably said this before, but the world building in this series is amazing! I love how 'other' Jeffe made the fae. They don't think like humans, and have their own twisted logic, making them strange and even creepy.

With Rogue and Gwynn together there were a lot of tender, romantic scenes, and some scorching hot ones as well. I very much enjoyed seeing the two of them getting closer, although they still have their disagreements and fights as well. Their relationship felt real and I loved them as a couple.

The dangers they're facing cast a shadow over their relationship and kept me on the edge of my seat. I wanted them to have a happy ending, but at times it felt like an impossibility. The story is full of darkness and duality. I kept believing in Jeffe's storytelling though, hanging on to every bit of hope, and trusted that she would give me an ending that I could find satisfying.

And Jeffe once more delivered. The ending had me sniffling happy tears I can tell you.

I felt both happy and sad to have come to this beautiful ending of a dark and delicious story. I will most certainly reread this trilogy, and hope Jeffe decides to revisit this world to give me even more to love about it.

Notes on rereading:

As with the other books: even knowing how things would go I was once again getting anxious on Gwynn's behalf. This story is just so gripping and deliciously dark. You bet I'll get my greedy hands on the new versions once they release.

Why should you read it:

It's a beautiful and dark Fantasy Romance

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Rogue's Possession - Book Review by Voodoo Bride (reread)

 

Rogue's Possession (Covenant of Thorns #2)

by Jeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

One does not break an oath to the fae…

But I am getting much better at finding and exploiting the loopholes. I may have promised the ruthlessly sensual fae lord, Rogue, that he can sire my firstborn child—but I never said when. And I’m not giving into his will-eroding attempts to seduce me until he tells me what will happen to my child.

Which he refuses to do.

So, I’m holding out against his allure, no matter how he tantalizes me, because the one way to protect my child is to make sure they’re never born. Unfortunately, Rogue is as wily as he is persistent, and soon I find myself in more bargains—I must give him a kiss every day and sleep by his side at night. Even as I travel through Faerie, perfecting my sorceress skills and seeking the answers to the questions Rogue won’t—or can’t—answer, he is constantly by my side, working his way through my defenses.

He refuses to let me go. Most terrifying of all, I’m finding I don’t want him to…

What did Voodoo Bride think of it:

When looking for my previous review I discovered I hadn't written one apart from "So good!".

I must say this sentiment is still accurate!

I love the characters in this series, from the important ones like Rogue and Gwynn to the minor ones, like Gwynn's servants, and even some of the bad guys. (The bad guys I don't love are still wonderful in how they're written, btw.)

I knew the story and what would happen, still I couldn't help myself getting slightly anxious and rooting for Gwynn that things would go her way. She is learning more and more about the world of the fae and a lot of it isn't nice. She gets better at seeing the dangers though, and manages to gather allies around her, who I all loved and started rooting for as well.

All in all I was just as engrossed in this book as I was when I first read it. There is a satisfying ending that makes you're not too anxious for the next book, but with enough foreshadowing of things yet to come that you want it!

Why should you read it:

It's an amazing Dark Fantasy Romance

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Covenant of Thorns Covers - They're Awesome!!!

 

The new covers for the Covenant of Thorns trilogy by Jeffe Kennedy have been revealed! And they are so beautiful! Guess who is totally going to get them once they release!

Find buy links to pre-order on Jeffe Kennedy's website

Rogue's Pawn

Be careful what you wish for…

When I walked out on my awful boyfriend, wishing to be somewhere—anywhere—else, I never expected to wake up in Faerie. And, as a scientist, I find it even harder to believe that I now seem to be a sorceress.

A pretty crappy sorceress, it turns out, because every thought that crosses my mind becomes suddenly and frighteningly real—including the black dog that has long haunted my nightmares.

Now I’m a captive, a pawn for the fae lord, Rogue, and the feral and treacherous Faerie court, all vying to control me and the vast powers I don’t understand. Worse, Rogue, the closest thing I have to a friend in this place, is intent on seducing me. He’s the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen, enthralling, tempting, and lethally dangerous. He’s as devastatingly clever as he is alluring, and he tricks me into promising him my firstborn child, which he intends to sire…

I don’t dare give into him. I may not have the willpower to resist him. He’s my only protection against those who would destroy me

Unless I can learn to use my magic.

Rereleasing July 5, 2022

Rogue's Possession

One does not break an oath to the fae…

But I am getting much better at finding and exploiting the loopholes. I may have promised the ruthlessly sensual fae lord, Rogue, that he can sire my firstborn child—but I never said when. And I’m not giving into his will-eroding attempts to seduce me until he tells me what will happen to my child.

Which he refuses to do.

So, I’m holding out against his allure, no matter how he tantalizes me, because the one way to protect my child is to make sure they’re never born. Unfortunately, Rogue is as wily as he is persistent, and soon I find myself in more bargains—I must give him a kiss every day and sleep by his side at night. Even as I travel through Faerie, perfecting my sorceress skills and seeking the answers to the questions Rogue won’t—or can’t—answer, he is constantly by my side, working his way through my defenses.

He refuses to let me go. Most terrifying of all, I’m finding I don’t want him to…

Rereleasing July 26, 2022

Rogue's Paradise

Faerie, the land of blood, magic, and betrayal…

At last, the fae lord, Rogue, has won everything. He has me in his home, his bed, and I’m desperately in love with him despite my best efforts and better judgment.

Did I mention I’m pregnant?

As our child grows inside me, the one I’m pledged to give to him, I still have no idea what will happen after the birth. Though Rogue is attentive in every way a woman could wish for, bringing me delirious pleasure and gifts beyond price, he still won’t—or can’t—tell me what game he’s playing. Or what the viciously sadistic Queen Titania has to do with our many bargains.

I’m most afraid that, if he betrays us, I’ll never be able to forgive him. Even though I can’t stop loving him.

As war threatens everything we’ve built, as my body swells with the enchanted pregnancy, I become more certain with every day that the true enemy lurks within our castle walls. And that the man I’ve vowed eternal commitment to, may be the last person I can trust…

 

Rereleasing August 16, 2022

The Storm Princess and the Raven King - Release Day Book Review

 

The Storm Princess and the Raven King (Heirs of Magic #4)

byJeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

A Broken Heart

Princess Salena Nakoa KauPo thought she was over her broken heart. She’d put her first love and childhood sweetheart, Rhyian, firmly in the past where he belonged. His bitter betrayal of her was locked away deep inside, along with her foolishly innocent hopes and dreams. Now Lena has been thrust together with him, the prince of shadows, the one man she could never resist, on a mission to save the world from a terrible cataclysm. Worse, Rhyian refuses to believe her when she says there’s no hope for them.

An Irresistible Longing

Rhyian is rather accustomed to being a failure. Goddesses know, he’s not magical enough for his sorcerous mother and not alpha enough for his father, the King of Annfwn. It hasn’t helped that he’s spent the last seven years trying to drown his sorrows—and to forget the one woman he ever loved, whose heart he carelessly shattered in a moment of weakness. Rhy knows he has to change to win back Lena’s trust, but how?

A Love That Can’t Die

As Lena and Rhy struggle to overcome the wounds of the past, they and their friends approach the final confrontation with the strange intelligence intent on rending apart the very fabric of their world. And it looks like it will come down to the pair of them to strike the final blow.

But only if they can build a new trust on the bitter past.

What did I think of it:

Me and Voodoo Bride loved the other books in this series, and even though each book had a happy ending for each couple, the threat to the 13 Kingdoms is not gone yet. So you bet  we were eager to dive into this book.

And this is an awesome read!

Rhy has been a bit of an ass throughout the series. Hung up on Lena and anything else he can feel hung up about, we were very curious how he would turn from ass to hero. I can tell you that it was very cool to see his transformation in this book. There had been small moments of clarity in the earlier books that showed he could learn and change, but it's here that things finally stick and he decides to stop moping and start taking responsibility. He turned from an ass into someone who might be worth being called Raven King.

Lena was awesome as well. She grows into her powers even more and when things get hairy she will have to make scary and difficult choices, including deciding if she can trust Rhy with her heart. 

This being the concluding book, there's lots of action, fights, discoveries, and possible heartbreak. We were eager to see how the strange intelligence that's been causing the destruction and chaos that's threatening the 13 Kingdoms would be stopped. And the climax of this book and this series is epic! 

And the epilogues! They are so good! Voodoo Bride immediately wanted to reread the entire series after finishing those.

All in all a wonderful read and an awesome conclusion to this series.

Why should you read it:

It's awesome Epic Fantasy Romance

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Rogue's Pawn - Book Review by Voodoo Bride (repost and reread)

The Covenant of Thorns trilogy will be polished and then rereleased after the rights were returned to Jeffe Kennedy. Time for a reread before the new shiny versions will be released later this year. (And yes: You bet I'll be posting about it when they're available.)

Rogue's Pawn (Covenant of Thorns #1)

by Jeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

This is no fairy tale…

Haunted by nightmares of a black dog, sick to death of my mind-numbing career and heart-numbing fiancé, I impulsively walked out of my life—and fell into Faerie. Terrified, fascinated, I discover I possess a power I can't control: my wishes come true. After an all-too-real attack by the animal from my dreams, I wake to find myself the captive of the seductive and ruthless fae lord Rogue. In return for my rescue, he demands an extravagant price—my firstborn child, which he intends to sire himself…

With no hope of escaping this world, I must learn to harness my magic and build a new life despite the perils—including my own inexplicable and debilitating desire for Rogue. I swear I will never submit to his demands, no matter what erotic torment he subjects me to…

What did Voodoo Bride think of it:

I love this book!

Kennedy creates a wonderful, yet dark world where wishes come true, but also might destroy you.

Jennifer/Gwynne is a heroine I really could relate to. She's practical and rational and I loved seeing her adapt to a world full of magic. She doesn't give up even when things get really tough and keeps looking for possibilities to turn the tables on those who wrong her.

Rogue on the other hand is dark and mysterious with a ruthlessness to him that makes him both sexy and a bit scary. I could totally understand why Jennifer/Gwynne can't make up her mind about Rogue. The relationship that builds between them is intense and believable and I can't wait to see how things between them will develop in the next two books.

Kennedy also did a really good job at characterizing the minor characters in this book. I especially fell in love with Blackbird and her daughter Starling and hope they will be in the next book as well.

The story itself was very different from what I expected when I started the book. There was lots more action and intrigue than I thought there would be and this was a pleasant surprise. Most Paranormal/Fantasy Romances focus just on the romance and are a bit sloppy on the story around that romance, but Rogue's Pawn luckily didn't have this flaw and instead delivers on both romance and story.

All in all this is a delightful read and I'm already longing for the next book in this trilogy to see what's next for Jennifer/Gwynne and the people close to her.

Why should you read it:

It's a beautiful and dark Fantasy Romance

Thoughts on rereading:

Still as awesome as the first time I read this. I must confess there was one event that I remembered as being longer and darker than it came across on this reread. Still an impactful scene though. 

Grey Magic - Release Day Review

 

Grey Magic (Bonds of Magic #3)

by Jeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

His Darkness, Her Brightness… Together They Defy the World

Lord Gabriel Phel at last holds his dream in his grasp—and faces losing everything. He’s finally won the love of his wife, familiar, and mother of his child, and she offers him a heartfelt commitment he can truly believe in. Together they’re building a true house, one with a growing family of friends and allies that can help them stand against their enemies. And he’s learning to master his magic, to use it as the powerful tool and weapon it should be. But old and new enemies array themselves to take it all away.

Lady Veronica, now fully of House Phel, is doing her best to embrace happiness. After all, she has her hands full managing her mercurial and powerful wizard as he navigates taking his place as the head of their house, and with learning her own extraordinary ability. But she fears whatever peace they win won’t last long. When their enemies inevitably strike—including, perhaps, her own father—they must be ready to defend all they hold precious. It doesn’t help that her idealistic husband insists on making foolishly noble decisions that put them at even greater risk, nor that she loves him all the more for it.

As Nic and Gabriel struggle to put their household in order, giving ill-advised safe harbor to Nic’s runaway sister and risking their lives to save Gabriel’s sister’s sanity, their enemies draw the noose tighter on their well laid plans. When the unthinkable occurs, it’s up to both of them to trust in the nascent, unknown magic they’ve woven together.

What did I think of it:

This is such an awesome read!

I loved the previous two books in this trilogy, so I was eager to see how Nic and Gabriel would conquer the problems thrown their way.

And what a ride!

I was hooked from the start and rooted for Nic and Gabriel to come out on top. Things aren't easy for them and there were some very tense moments, but I trusted Jeffe Kennedy to give me a satisfying story with an even more satisfying ending.

And boy, did she deliver!

It's clear Nic and Gabriel have both grown since the start of the trilogy, both individually and together. I loved seeing them join their strengths and getting things done. 

Next to Nic and Gabriel there were also other characters I could root for, and it looks like my favorite side character will get his own book(s). I can tell you I'm totally there for it! I love the possibilities this world gives for exciting and epic stories, so I hope Jeffe Kennedy will keep them coming!

All in all an amazing conclusion to an epic trilogy. If you haven't started on this trilogy yet: you really should, because it is awesome!

Why should you read it:

It's an epic and totally amazing Fantasy Romance.

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Dark Wizard - Book Review (2021 Pearl)

 I'm reposting the reviews of some of my favorite reads of 2021 this week.

First up: Dark Wizard

Dark Wizard (Bonds of Magic #1) 

by Jeffe Kennedy 

What is it about:

Lord Gabriel Phel wants one thing: to restore his shattered House to its former station in the Convocation’s complex and arcane society. Fortunately, through a wild chance of birth, he was born with the magic of a powerful wizard, the first in his family in generations. If he can obtain a familiar to supplement his skills, ideally one who is a highborn daughter who can also be his lady wife, then he’ll be that much closer to restoring House Phel. And to exacting his ultimate revenge on the Convocation that destroyed his family.

Lady Veronica Elal doesn’t have many choices. To her bitter disappointment, she will never be the powerful wizard she and her father hoped she’d be. Instead Nic is doomed to be a familiar like her mother, a second-class citizen in the Convocation, and one destined to be bonded to a wizard, serving his purposes for the rest of her life. Her one hope lies in entering the Betrothal Trials—and choosing a wizard from the Convocation candidates that she can manipulate. Whichever one of her suitors impregnates her will claim her as familiar and wife, and she can use her wiles to rule her wizard master, and the House she marries into.

But Gabriel throws a wrench into Nic’s careful scheming, by seducing and fascinating her. When she finds she’s pregnant by the rogue wizard she can never hope to control, Nic does the unthinkable: she runs.

What did I think of it:

This book is amazing!

The world Jeffe creates in this book is intriguing and twisted. I loved learning about the Convocation rules and what they mean for those who have to follow them.

Veronica/Nic grew up with these rules and takes them for granted. Gabriel however is new to them and it was fun to see how different both react to the rules.

The two of them also have very different ideas about a possible future together, and when Nic realizes Gabriel won't ever be the gullible and malleable wizard she was hoping him to be, she runs. Gabriel however won't let her disappear that easily.

I loved both Nic and Gabriel. Nic is a product of her highborn upbringing and once she's on her own has to learn a lot about both herself and the world around her. Gabriel is new to the world of the Convocation and he has to be careful he doesn't break the rules he only recently learned about.

I read this book in almost one sitting and rooted for the both of them. The ending of this book is very satisfying, but there's so much coming for these two, and there's so much yet to explore within this fascinating world that I'm eager for the next book. I want more! 

Why should you read it:

It's a wonderful dark Fantasy Romance

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Dark Wizard - Book Review (repost)

I reread this book recently (still totally awesome!), so here's a repost of my review.

Dark Wizard (Bonds of Magic #1) 

by Jeffe Kennedy 

What is it about:

Lord Gabriel Phel wants one thing: to restore his shattered House to its former station in the Convocation’s complex and arcane society. Fortunately, through a wild chance of birth, he was born with the magic of a powerful wizard, the first in his family in generations. If he can obtain a familiar to supplement his skills, ideally one who is a highborn daughter who can also be his lady wife, then he’ll be that much closer to restoring House Phel. And to exacting his ultimate revenge on the Convocation that destroyed his family.

Lady Veronica Elal doesn’t have many choices. To her bitter disappointment, she will never be the powerful wizard she and her father hoped she’d be. Instead Nic is doomed to be a familiar like her mother, a second-class citizen in the Convocation, and one destined to be bonded to a wizard, serving his purposes for the rest of her life. Her one hope lies in entering the Betrothal Trials—and choosing a wizard from the Convocation candidates that she can manipulate. Whichever one of her suitors impregnates her will claim her as familiar and wife, and she can use her wiles to rule her wizard master, and the House she marries into.

But Gabriel throws a wrench into Nic’s careful scheming, by seducing and fascinating her. When she finds she’s pregnant by the rogue wizard she can never hope to control, Nic does the unthinkable: she runs.

What did I think of it:

This book is amazing!

The world Jeffe creates in this book is intriguing and twisted. I loved learning about the Convocation rules and what they mean for those who have to follow them.

Veronica/Nic grew up with these rules and takes them for granted. Gabriel however is new to them and it was fun to see how different both react to the rules.

The two of them also have very different ideas about a possible future together, and when Nic realizes Gabriel won't ever be the gullible and malleable wizard she was hoping him to be, she runs. Gabriel however won't let her disappear that easily.

I loved both Nic and Gabriel. Nic is a product of her highborn upbringing and once she's on her own has to learn a lot about both herself and the world around her. Gabriel is new to the world of the Convocation and he has to be careful he doesn't break the rules he only recently learned about.

I read this book in almost one sitting and rooted for the both of them. The ending of this book is very satisfying, but there's so much coming for these two, and there's so much yet to explore within this fascinating world that I'm eager for the next book. I want more! 

Why should you read it:

It's a wonderful dark Fantasy Romance

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The Dragon's Daughter and the Winter Mage - Book Review

 

The Dragon's Daughter and the Winter Mage (Heirs of Magic #3)

by Jeffe Kennedy

What is it about:

Invisible Loner

Gendra—partblood daughter of an elite mossback soldier and the only shapeshifter to achieve the coveted dragon form—is anything but interesting. She’s actually plain and awkward and … invisible. Every guy she meets either looks right through her or—worse—thinks of her as just a friend. Fortunately Gen is far too practical to wallow in self pity. Much.

A Search for True Love

But as Gen accompanies her oldest friends on a quest for Her Majesty High Queen Ursula, she can’t help feeling bitter about her lonely fate as, two by two, they pair off with each other. As usual, everyone but odd-woman-out Gen seems to be finding the happiness in true love that has always eluded her. And Gen’s pathetic attempts to come out of her shell have only met with social disaster.

Dragon’s Daughter

Still, with magic rifts plaguing the Thirteen Kingdoms and a strange intelligence stalking them from an alter-realm, Gen has plenty to deal with—especially when she’s cut off from the group, isolated and facing a lethal danger. It just figures that Gen is on her own, once again. But with no one coming to save her, she has only herself to rely upon.

And, perhaps, the help of a mysterious, stranded magician…

What did I think of it:

I will confess I read this book as it was still being written, and I can tell you I was eagerly waiting for every update as this story is amazing!

I love Gen, she is used to being overlooked, but that says more about the men around her than about her. She is kind, levelheaded, and passionate. I loved seeing inside her head and see her hopes, dreams, and vulnerabilities. I was rooting for her to find happiness.

And then she meets Isyn. He is not your typical romantic hero, but I connected with him right away. He had a hard life, and can be gloomy at times, but at his heart he's a survivor. I loved seeing Gen and Isyn get to know each other and fall in love. I will confess I was a little worried about their future, but as always trusted in Jeffe to bring this story to a satisfying end.

And that trust was rewarded!

The problems for the Thirteen Kingdoms aren't over yet, and the last book in this series promises to be fraught with danger, but I was more than satisfied with the conclusion of Gen's and Isyn's romance.

I loved the worldbuilding and overall mood of the story, which next to having some cool new characters, had a fairytale vibe.

Voodoo Bride wants me to add that although no one can outshine Zyr, this book is her favorite in the Heirs of Magic series so far.

Why should you read it:

It's a wonderful Fantasy Romance

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Release Day Alert - The Dragon Daughter and the Winter Mage

 

The Dragon's Daughter and the Winter Mage (Heirs of Magic #3)

by Jeffe Kennedy

Invisible Loner

Gendra—partblood daughter of an elite mossback soldier and the only shapeshifter to achieve the coveted dragon form—is anything but interesting. She’s actually plain and awkward and … invisible. Every guy she meets either looks right through her or—worse—thinks of her as just a friend. Fortunately Gen is far too practical to wallow in self pity. Much.

A Search for True Love

But as Gen accompanies her oldest friends on a quest for Her Majesty High Queen Ursula, she can’t help feeling bitter about her lonely fate as, two by two, they pair off with each other. As usual, everyone but odd-woman-out Gen seems to be finding the happiness in true love that has always eluded her. And Gen’s pathetic attempts to come out of her shell have only met with social disaster.

Dragon’s Daughter

Still, with magic rifts plaguing the Thirteen Kingdoms and a strange intelligence stalking them from an alter-realm, Gen has plenty to deal with—especially when she’s cut off from the group, isolated and facing a lethal danger. It just figures that Gen is on her own, once again. But with no one coming to save her, she has only herself to rely upon.

And, perhaps, the help of a mysterious, stranded magician…

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Bright Familiar - Release Day Book Review

 

Bright Familiar (Bonds of Magic #2)

by Jeffe Kennedy 

What is it about:

He wanted her with consuming passion... and so did the monster within.

Lady Veronica Elal has been freed from her tower—and entered a life of servitude. It doesn’t matter that her wizard master has odd ideas about circumventing Convocation tradition and making their relationship equal. Nic prides herself on her practicality and that means not pretending her marriage is full of hearts and flowers. Besides she understands that, despite her new husband’s idealism, they face obstacles so great the pair of them could be crushed to nothing, even without dashing themselves brainless trying to fight the Convocation.

Lord Gabriel Phel has come this far against impossible odds. He was born with powerful wizard magic, the first in his family in generations. He’s managed to begin the process of reinstating his fallen house. And—having staked his family’s meager fortune to win a familiar to amplify his magic, a highborn daughter to be mother to his children, his lady, and lover—he rescued Nic in a distant land, successfully bringing her home to House Phel. Though she’s cynical about their chances of success, he’s certain they can defy their enemies and flourish. Together.

But, the more Gabriel discovers about working with the fiery Nic, attempting to learn the finer points of wizardry and marriage, the more illicit fantasies plague him. His need for Nic—and the dark cravings she stirs in his black wizard’s heart—grow daily. Though Nic has reconciled herself to being possessed by Gabriel—and indeed yearns for even more from her brooding and reluctant master—creating a new life for herself isn’t easy. Especially when Gabriel seems determined to subvert the foundation of her world. Starting with her father.

What did I think of it:

This is yet another totally awesome read.

Gabriel and Nic have to learn to work together and to trust the other, but it's hard going. Gabriel is not just ready to fight the world, he is fighting himself and his nature as well. Nic on the other hand is so used to keeping to herself she keeps Gabriel at a distance when it would be saver to trust him.

I loved seeing their relationship grow and mature in this book. I was totally invested in them learning to trust each other and themselves, and to learn to work together. 

I also loved seeing Nic taking control of rebuilding House Phel and helping Gabriel take his place as the head of his House. At the same time Gabriel shows Nic where the rules she has lived with for her whole life are wrong and why they should be changed.

The romance is steamy, hot, and delicious! After all the trouble in Dark Wizard they flourish in this book and that was so good to see.

The problems they landed themselves in are far from over though, and even as they start to work together and House Phel grows, you know it's only a matter of time before trouble finds them.

The book ends once again at a satisfying point, but I'm more than eager for the next book to see what's next for them.

Why should you read it:

It's an amazing Dark Fantasy Romance  

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