Book Shelf: Assassin's Menace (Assassin's Magic #2.5) by Everly Frost

Never step between an assassin and his prey...

Nobody would suspect curvy, blonde bookworm Grace Kennedy of being a cold-blooded killer. She just wants to keep her head down and escape the violent secrets of her past.

But when Grace unwittingly gets between an assassin and his target, she becomes prey to Boston's most ferocious legion of killers.

If finding a way out of the life-threatening mess she created isn't hard enough, her unexpected encounters with Cain Carter prove even more unsettling.

Ruthless millionaire on the outside, sexy as hell in private, Cain is determined to make sure Grace survives her own secret power, as well as his.

When the Legion closes in and the power inside Grace threatens to tear her apart, Cain will have to sacrifice what he loves the most if he wants Grace to survive.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Assassin’s Menace is the third instalment in the Assassin’s Magic series by Everly Frost and introduces readers to a new voice and heroine in this kick-ass and riveting adventure full of action, romance and edge of your seat moments.

Bookworm Grace Kennedy isn’t who she appears, and she’s spent a lot of time and effort ensuring this is the case. No one would suspect that she’s actually a killer and she intends to keep it that way--- hoping to escape her violent past as much as possible. Then Grace unwittingly gets between an assassin and his target, becoming prey to Boston’s most vicious legion of killers. Help comes in the unexpected form of Cain Carter, ruthless millionaire and someone who is much more than he seems. Cain is determined to keep Grace alive even if it means going against his brother assassins, but for a girl who has never known kindness, Grace is sure Cain’s help comes with strings. Sexy as hell, Cain could become Grace’s weakness if she lets him, but with unforeseen powers simmering inside her, trusting Cain my be Grace’s only choice….if only she can trust him with her heart too.

Can I just say; Everly Frost is the bomb! Seriously this woman knows how to get my blood pumping and the adrenaline running with her edge-of-your-seat stories and exhilarating endings. Assassin’s Menace is the third instalment (book number 2.5 if you want to be specific) in Frost’s sensational Assassin’s Magic series and takes place between Assassin’s Mask and the upcoming final novel, Assassin’s Maze.

Stepping away from normal protagonist Hunter for the first time, Assassin’s Menace introduces readers to Grace Kennedy, an equally awesome and kick-ass heroine who quickly captured my heart with her determination, strength and capability. I’ll try not to give away spoilers where I can, but Grace is vital to Frost’s overall series, something that was fairly obvious to me heading into the novel. Readers of the series should catch on pretty quickly why and this will make it all super exciting as you discover Grace and what she can do.

It was fabulous to finally see Cain Carter meet his match in Assassin’s Menace and I couldn’t be happier that he was paired with Grace. Theirs is a romance that builds beautifully, and their chemistry is electric and driven. You knew where it was heading but that didn’t make seeing them fall for one another any less satisfying.

Everything really comes together with Assassin’s Menace. Everly Frost ties previous storyline arc’s together and allows the readers to discover where she was heading with certain hints and titbits that were suggested in the previous novels. I loved the inclusion of Cain’s sister Parker who is a real sweetie—and someone I’m hoping will be paired with Lutz Logan—and thought her inclusion to the story was really adorable.

Thrilling and so very good, Assassin’s Menace was another brilliant read in a series I genuinely adore. I can’t wait to see what Everly Frost has planned for the fourth and final instalment—I have no doubt it will be spectacular!

Rating:
Source: Read via Kindle Unlimited
Publisher: Ever Realm Books
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: June 20th 2019
Buy: The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Final Thoughts: Another fabulous installment--I can't wait to see how it will all come to and end!

Book Shelf: The Queen of Nothing (The Folk of the Air #3) by Holly Black

He will be destruction of the crown and the ruination of the throne.

Power is much easier to acquire than it is to hold onto. Jude learned this lesson when she released her control over the wicked king, Cardan, in exchange for immeasurable power.

Now as the exiled mortal Queen of Faerie, Jude is powerless and left reeling from Cardan’s betrayal. She bides her time determined to reclaim everything he took from her. Opportunity arrives in the form of her deceptive twin sister, Taryn, whose mortal life is in peril.

Jude must risk venturing back into the treacherous Faerie Court, and confront her lingering feelings for Cardan, if she wishes to save her sister. But Elfhame is not as she left it. War is brewing. As Jude slips deep within enemy lines she becomes ensnared in the conflict’s bloody politics.

And, when a dormant yet powerful curse is unleashed, panic spreads throughout the land, forcing her to choose between her ambition and her humanity…

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black, comes the highly anticipated and jaw-dropping finale to The Folk of the Air trilogy.

More info on Goodreads.......


Review:

The Queen of Nothing is the tantalizing and beguiling final novel in The Folk of the Air series by Holly Black and is a phenomenal way to conclude what has been a breathtaking series from the very first page to the very last.

After being crowned Queen of Faerie and subsequently exiled by her wicked husband King Cardan, Jude Duarte spends her time in the mortal world watching television with her brother Oak and sister Vivi and doing the odd job for the fae folk that live within the human realm. Having spent her life in the Fae world, a life in the human one is bland and uneventful….until her twin Taryn arrives as asks Jude for a favour. Taryn is in trouble and to help her, Jude will have to return to the world of Faerie. This means facing Cardan, whose betrayal still hurts but who Jude can’t help but still love despite his actions. When a curse is unveiled, Jude has no choice but become the first ever mortal Queen of Faerie to save Cardan and the world she reluctantly loves…..

Holly Black has entranced me with this series from the very moment I began reading The Cruel Prince. The beautifully written storyline, enchanting setting and layered, multi-dimensional characters bring the series to life with poise and excitement. I honestly believe that nothing I can say will do this series justice and eloquently describe how much I love and adore it. It genuinely does deserve all the hype surrounding it and is without a doubt deserving its place as one of the best fae series out there.

Continuing to follow mortal girl Jude, The Queen of Nothing picks up after the shocking conclusion of the previous novel and begins by detailing Jude’s time in exile. Banished from her home in the world of Faerie, Jude is struggling to assimilate in the mortal realm and yearns for the place from which she was expelled. Jude has been a fabulous protagonist from the very beginning of the series and I have highly enjoyed following her with each novel. Jude is a mortal in a world of wicked fae. At a disadvantage thanks to her human weakness and fragility, Jude has had to be as cunning and calculated as her fae companions, if not more so, in order to survive. Jude’s intelligence, capability and determination is something to be admired. As does her love for her family and those within her inner circle. I feel that Jude has grown into a formable young woman and now Queen over the course of the series and Holly Black has done her a real service writing her in such a manner.

Throughout the trilogy Jude’s nemesis, love interest and reluctant alley has been Cardan, former Prince of Faerie and now High King. What can I say about Cardan other than that I love him? I love him with his wickedly deceptive and devious nature. With his cheeky attitude and laid back approach; his reluctantly vulnerable and unexpectedly loyal personality. I love him in all his cunning and calculating magnitude; in all his glory. I just love Cardan and think he has been a fabulous character within the series to push Jude and fight Jude and fall in love with Jude.

Holly Black has written one hell of a romance with Jude and Cardan. Never have I seen two people be so good for and so bad for each other. They have been enemies and allies; have loathed and now loved one another. They’ve pushed and pulled; fought and bickered. Betrayed and supported one another. And it’s been absolutely thrilling to watch unfold! Their chemistry has been undeniable from day one. Black has slowly built their relationship from the first novel as childhood enemies and classmates, to a King and Queen who are now deeply in love with each other to a fault. There’s no pretty words or sugary promises between them—their feelings are crushing and awkward and raw……but I really like this. I think it suits who are as individuals and now as a couple.

Throughout the entire series the twists, turns, shocks and surprises have always kept coming. Eloquently detailing the story perfectly, author Holly Black has proven once again why she is one of the Queen’s of the fae with The Folk of the Air. As addictive and beguiling as its predecessors, The Queen of Nothing brings the series to an end in spectacular fashion with an exciting but satisfying ending. Though I’m sad to see the trilogy conclude, I look forward to reliving Jude and Cardan’s story time and time again and cannot recommend this series enough!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me from Big W
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Format: Paperback
Release Date: November 19th 2019
Buy: Angus & Robertson | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: The Queen of Nothing is an absolutely sensational conclusion to this trilogy that blew me away with it's brilliance. Holly Black has outdone herself with this novel--simply brilliant.

Book Shelf: Assassin's Mask (Assassin's Magic #2) by Everly Frost

Is love worth fighting for?
When Hunter Cassidy revealed her true power to Slade Baines during a fight for their lives, everything she wanted was ripped away from her.

Now, with her heart in pieces, Hunter is left only with her determination to find and destroy the deadly weapon that led her to infiltrate the Assassin's Legion in the first place.

But Hunter's quest proves more complicated than she expected, leaving her with no choice but to make a deal with one of the Legion's most formidable assassins—a deal that catapults her right back into Slade's life.

Now the Master Assassin, Slade's power grows by the day and so does his determination to fight the bond he formed with Hunter and the powerful attraction that keeps drawing them together. No matter what, he will protect her from the enemies she makes at every turn, including the new leader of the underground whose mission is to destroy them both.

When tragedy strikes, Hunter discovers that the weapon she sought is nothing like she expected. She and Slade will need to work together to defeat the rising power behind the underground. But can they fight together when their hearts are torn apart? 

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Assassin’s Mask is the second novel in the Assassin’s Magic series by Everly Frost is a fantastic sequel and continuation in the saga that is full of danger, exhilarating romance and edge of your seat excitement.

When Hunter Cassidy revealed the truth of what she is to Slade Baines during a battle for their lives, everything she treasured was ripped away. Now with a broken heart, Hunter is left with only her mission to locate and destroy the weapon that led her to infiltrate the Assassin’s Legion to begin with. This is easier said than done and Hunter will have to make deals with fellow assassins if she wants to succeed; something that will put her straight back into Slade’s path. Now Master Assassin, Slade’s power grows day by day, as does his resolve to fight the bond he formed with Hunter---if only for her own good. Then a new enemy surfaces and Hunter and Slade have no choice but to work together if they want to survive. Will their fears keep them apart or will they discover that their greatest strength lies in each other?

I’m seriously in love with this series! After two novels I am very much besotted with the characters and story and am invested in their journey. Well written and paced, Assassin’s Mark continues to explore this rich world of assassins, magic and monsters that Everly Frost has created. With elements of mythology and plenty of solid fight sequences, battles and action, this series has plenty to offer and continues to develop. It’s enchanting and enthralling with a fantastic main character and a great cast of supporting characters whose dynamics I’m loving; Cain, Vlad, Tansy, William, Briar, Dean---they’re all fabulous!

Everly Frost writes our protagonist Hunter as someone so very likable that I’m hopelessly addicted to her story. Hunter is kind, genuine, honourable and so very kick-ass. She’s not perfect and she’s not infallible, but she tries her hardest to do the right thing and not hurt anyone in the process. Hunter is just a fantastic character that is perfect within the story and in her role.

Oh, and she certainly has a perfect match in Slade Baines who faces a lot of his own struggles in Assassin’s Mask. Everly Frost is a writer after my own heart with absolutely NO love triangle in sight with this series. Hunter and Slade are committed to one another only and regardless of the difficulties they are facing there is no denying their chemistry and feelings for one another.

As Assassin’s Mask ends with some shocks, and some losses, I cannot wait to see what happens to Hunter, Slade and all their friends next and will be diving straight into the next book to find out!

Rating:
Source: Read via Kindle Unlimited
Publisher: Ever Realm Books
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: March 10th 2019
Buy: The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: This book was as fabulous as the first---love this series!

Book Shelf: One Blood Ruby (Seven Black Diamonds #2) by Melissa Marr

In this gripping follow-up to Melissa Marr’s lush Seven Black Diamonds, Lily and her friends are forced to reckon with the truth of their own lineage and to protect one of their own, no matter what—or who—comes between them.

Now that Lilywhite Abernathy is the heir to the Hidden Lands, everything is about to change.

The Queen of Blood and Rage wants Lily to help broker peace with the human world, but Lily knows that harmony won’t come easily. After decades of waging war on the humans, who cost the queen her firstborn daughter, the fae are struggling to accept Lily, a half-human monarch. And the humans, while no match against faery affinities, will hardly agree to the queen’s détente without resistance.

Lily wants to be a fair ruler but fears having to abandon the life she’s known. Now that she and Creed are more than just fellow Black Diamonds—operatives for the queen—her priorities have shifted. But her worries about assuming the throne are derailed when it becomes clear that someone—or some fae—is masterminding violent attacks to discourage peace.

Who can end the war between humans and fae?

More info on Goodreads..... 


Review: 

One Blood Ruby is the second novel in Melissa Marr’s Seven Black Diamonds series and is a deeply engrossing sequel that is filled with danger, adventure and romance.

After discovering her true Fae heritage, LilyWhite Abernathy has accepted her role as heir to the Hidden Lands and the combined Seelie and Unseelie thrones. After decades of raging war with the humans, the Queen of Blood and Rage is open to brokering peace with the human world and Lily knows her position in both worlds is the key to securing this. Alongside their fellow black diamonds, Lily and her new boyfriend Creed stand alongside Lily’s newly found fae family to create a new peaceful world but with recent violent attacks on humans leaning towards a fae involvement is the hope for peace over before it has even begun?

Having fallen in love with Seven Black Diamonds, I jumped into One Blood Ruby as soon as my copy arrived and was delighted to find all the aspects I loved about the first novel alive in its sequel. Picking up where the first novel left off, One Blood Ruby is a thrilling and exciting story full of romance, friendship and blossoming familial connections.

One Blood Ruby continues to follow Lily primarily but is also told through the varying perspectives of Creed, Eilidh, Zephyr, Will and Violet as well, offering readers a very well rounded and inclusive view of the happenings within the novel. I genuinely love all the characters and enjoy seeing them individually and as a group as they connect and fight for one another.

Melissa Marr is very inapt at creating darkly riveting and complex characters with different personalities, desires and drives. One Blood Ruby continues to feature characters like this who are all very different but complement one another immensely. Fae, fae-blood or human, Marr writes her characters fiery, passionate, capable and endlessly thrilling to follow. I like their wit, attitude and mannerisms across the board and feel like the cast of characters within this series is truly fabulous.

As the Hidden Lands and human worlds look to unite, we see a more maternal and almost human side to the Queen of Blood and Rage. Amongst the romance, friendship and action of the story, it was sweet to see Endellion motherly towards her newly found granddaughter Lily and even her grandson Zephyr. This made for a nice touch to the story and balanced nicely with other aspects that were at play.

One Blood Ruby was another fabulous novel from Melissa Marr filled with excitement, danger and even unexpected loss. Emotional and riveting, One Blood Ruby leaves me highly excited about seeing more of the characters and I will be keeping my fingers-crossed and my eyes peeled for another novel in the series as I would love to see what Melissa Marr does next!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me
Publisher: HarperCollins
Format: Paperback
Release Date: May 1st 2018
Buy: Angus & Robertson | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: I'm absolutely loving this series and hoping there will be more in this series in the near future---love it!

Book Shelf: Assassin's Magic (Assassin's Magic #1) by Everly Frost

Is love worth the danger?

When Hunter Cassidy plans to infiltrate the Assassin's Legion, posing as an assassin-in-training, she is prepared to encounter danger every step of the way. What she doesn't expect is the ruggedly handsome and relentlessly fierce trainee, Slade Baines.

It's hard enough that Hunter is the first female to be accepted to train with the Master Assassin himself. Even when she beats the other candidates, the Master ranks her lowest of all. In the male-dominated Legion, the other trainees see her as a weak link to be driven out of their ranks.

When they try to force Hunter out, Slade gets in their way, becoming an unexpected ally. Despite her best intentions, Hunter finds herself lowering her guard around him, which only makes carrying out her secret mission more difficult and puts her in danger of falling for him.

But there's more at stake than Hunter's heart. The Master Assassin possesses the key to locate a weapon that Hunter must ensure remains hidden at all costs. In her quest to stop this deadly power from falling into the wrong hands, she must make a choice between following her heart... or fulfilling her destiny. 

More info on Goodreads...... 


Review: 

Assassin’s Magic is the first novel in Everly Frost’s series of the same name and is a fast paced and deeply addictive urban fantasy full of magic, action, danger and romance!

Having seen her mother die, Hunter Cassidy plans to infiltrate the Assassin’s Legion in order to avenge her death and recover the relic her mother died trying to protect. Pretending to be an assassin-in-training, Hunter thought she was prepared for danger, but she certainly wasn’t prepared for Slade Baines, a fellow candidate and someone who treats Hunter with respect and kindness. In the male dominated Legion, Hunter is the first female to train with the Master Assassin and seen as weak by the other candidates. All except for Slade who quickly becomes an ally. As Hunter attempts to fulfil her secret mission, getting close to Slade can only be a mistake, yet he makes her lower her guard despite her best intentions. As the Master Assassin closes in on a weapon of immense power, getting her hands on it first is the only way Hunter can ensure he can’t use it but with her growing feelings for Slade weighing on her mind and clouding her vision, will Hunter be able to make difficult choices or will the Master Assassin find a way to destroy her first?

As the first novel by Everly Frost I have ever read, I have to say I was very impressed by Assassin’s Magic. Heading into the story I don’t think I was as prepared to like the characters and the story as much as I did, but I will say one thing…..I’m seriously hooked! Perfectly paced, Assassin’s Magic introduces readers to an intriguing world of magic and monsters where certain individuals train to become assassins and hunters of things that go bump in the night.

Assassin’s Magic unfolds through the perspective of Hunter Cassidy, a young woman with secrets. I genuinely loved Hunter and thought she was intelligent, capable and kick-ass. Her voice is distinct and easy to follow with author Everly Frost writing Hunter as someone you can’t help but like. I felt she was honourable and mission orientated even as it becomes clear that she has many secrets and isn’t what people think she is.

Everly Frost implores some really interesting mythology within her novel and I’m really keen to see more of her take on Keres and Valkyries. Greek myth is some of my favourite and I always enjoy seeing something a little different which I think Frost manages to succeed with in Assassin’s Magic. I appreciated the way Frost slowly revealed certain parts of Hunter’s past and heritage and allowed readers to come to their own conclusion about what is happening while also making sure you needed to know more.

There’s so much about Assassin’s Magic to love—the mythology, the action, the mystery and most definitely the romance. Hunter and Slade’s romance has that slow burn feeling that develops over time from the initial attraction to slithers of friendship with an undeniable chemistry. I really liked seeing Hunter let Slade in. Slade was sexy and capable while also being kind and respectful and he clearly cared about Hunter. They have plenty of obstacles in the way of their relationship, the biggest of which the truth about what Hunter is, but I for one am cheering for them and can’t wait to see them find their way to each other again.

Thrilling and very enjoyable, Assassin’s Magic felt like The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare meets Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder and is something I can’t wait to continue with. I’ll be starting the next novel straight away to see what Everly Frost has in store for Hunter next!

Rating:
Source: Read via Kindle Unlimited
Publisher: Ever Realm Books
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: December 26th 2018
Buy: The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: I loved this novel and can't wait to continue with the rest of the series!

Book Shelf: Dukes Are Forever (London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy #5) by Bec McMaster

A compromising situation forced him into marriage. But has his wife been working for the enemy all along?

In a steam-fuelled world where vampires once ruled the aristocracy, the Duke of Malloryn knows his nemesis, Lord Balfour, has finally returned to enact his plans of revenge.

Malloryn can trust no one, and when incriminating photographs surface—of an enemy agent stealing a kiss from his wife—he is forced to question just why his wife, Adele, trapped him into marriage.

Is she an innocent pawn caught up in a madman's games, or is she a double agent working against him?

The only way to discover the truth is to seduce her himself...

Adele Hamilton may have agreed to a loveless marriage in order to protect herself, but that doesn't stop her heart from yearning for more.

Her husband promised her a cold marriage bed. He swore he'd never touch her. But suddenly he's engaged in a campaign of seduction—and the only way to keep her wits about her is to fight fire with fire.

The ruthless beauty has locked her heart away, but can she deny the passion that flares between them? And when the truth emerges, will she be the only thing that can save Malloryn's life?

Or the weapon his enemy will wield against him?

More info on Goodreads.... 


Review:

Dukes Are Forever is the explosive conclusion to Bec McMaster’s London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series and brings this incredible saga to an end in what can only be described as a blazing and deeply sensual meeting of two formable minds as the Duke of Malloryn meets his match in the woman he least expects; his wife.

The Duke of Malloryn and his Company of Rogues are preparing for the final showdown with the Lord Balfour. Yet even as he approaches what has been the compilation of years of fighting his enemy, Malloryn finds his mind drawn to the last thing he wants to be thinking about; his wife. After a compromising situation forced them into marriage, Malloryn was sure Adele had a heart of ice, but recent events have left him with turbulent feelings towards her and when a series of incriminating photos surface of her kissing another man, Malloryn sets out to determine if she has been playing him all along---even if he has to seduce her in order to find out. Adele Hamilton may have tricked her husband into a loveless marriage in order to protect herself but that doesn’t stop her for wishing for more. After years as prey to the Echlorn lords who took what they wanted from her regardless of her consent, Adele knows she is finally safe even as Malloryn remains cold and distant. She knows he sees her as heartless but when he suddenly approaches her with seduction in mind, Adele lets herself imagine a future without a cold marriage bed and a husband who could love her. He’d sworn he’d never love again after what Lord Balfour took from him but Malloryn can’t deny his lady wife knows how to get under his skin. He plans to lure her into revealing her secrets but as they give into the passions between them he’s soon left wondering exactly whom is seducing whom....

Reading Dukes Are Forever was such a bittersweet experience. I was so excited to read Malloryn and Adele’s story but also somewhat sad as I knew it would be the last novel. Bec McMaster has truly entranced me with this series and its predecessor series since the moment I began reading the very first novel Kiss of Steel.

As with all the other instalments, Dukes Are Forever features scorching sex scenes, but the brilliance of this series is that it is so much more than a sexually charged adventure. There is a real storyline with mystery and intrigue woven into each novel. McMaster has written characters who have personality individually but also a fantastic chemistry together. It’s been wonderful seeing all the friendships and familial bonds that have developed and I’ve loved seeing all the characters of past novels continue to be so focal.

Bec McMaster left me entirely besotted with Malloryn and Adele in Dukes Are Forever. Malloryn has always been so controlled that it was wonderful seeing a woman get under his skin so completely. I personally find him so, so sexy but seeing him get all riled up and emotional about a woman only made him more swoon-worthy. There’s something to be said about seeing a rational, intelligent man come undone thanks to the woman he least expects.

And Adele....I think she’s now my favourite female lead in this series! We first met her in Lena’s story as Lena’s best friend and a woman who had a certain reputation within polite society. Given today’s obsession with “slut-shaming” I really appreciate what Bec McMaster did with Adele as a character as I felt it was relevant. Adele was misunderstood in so many ways. She was simply a young woman who was trying to protect herself—and her younger sister—from the vicious Elchon lords who preyed on them for their blood. Adele was actually a real sweetheart who had never been loved or appreciated. Intelligent but fiercely underestimated, Adele wasn’t afraid to say what was on her mind; something that made her a perfect match for Malloryn.

The relationship between Malloryn and Adele was simply scorching to read about. Bec McMaster could not have gotten the banter, simmering tension and sexual chemistry any better between them. The push and pull, the way they drove each other mad and kept each other on their toes—so addictive to read about. I devoured the stolen kisses and carnal explorations McMaster wrote between them. As an innocent, Adele came alive in the arms of her husband as he taught her about passion and it was very sexy seeing Malloryn bring her inner desires to life. Especially when she learned to turn the tables on him and the shoe was on the other foot.

There was so much to love about this novel. From the moments of humour between the Rogues and their jesting with each other in an easygoing way to the action and danger as they took on Balfour to the burning connection between leads Malloryn and Adele, Dukes Are Forever had it all.

Bec McMaster has quickly become one of my new favourite authors and I will definitely be recommending this series to anyone who will listen as well as rereading them in the future as I want to loose myself in the characters and their world all over again!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me
Publisher: Lochaber Press
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: February 12th 2019
Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: An amazing ending to an amazing series---I absolutely LOVED this book!

Book Shelf: To Catch A Rogue (London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy #4) by Bec McMaster

An impossible heist. A thief and a rogue. But will she steal his heart, instead?

The Company of Rogues finally knows the identity of the mastermind behind a plot against the queen—but their enemy is still one step ahead of them. When he kidnaps one of theirs, the Rogues plan a daring rescue mission that will lead them into the heart of the bloodthirsty Crimson Court.

It's a job for a master thief, and there's nothing Charlie Todd likes more than a challenge. To pull off the impossible, Charlie needs a crew, including the only thief who's ever been able to outfox him.

He broke her heart. But now she must risk it all to save his life...

Lark's spent years trying to forget her past, but the one thing she can't ignore is the way a single smile from Charlie still sets her heart on fire. When he proposes they work together again, it feels just like old times, but she has one rule: this is strictly business.

It's Charlie's last chance to prove he can be trusted with her heart. But Lark's keeping a deadly secret. And as passions are stirred and the stakes mount, it might be the kind of secret that could destroy them all...

Ocean's 11 meets Dracula, in this sexy paranormal heist by USA Today Bestselling Author, Bec McMaster. If you like sexy paranormal romances, steampunk shenanigans, and plenty of action-adventure (vampires, dirigible flights, and steamy rooftop chases), then dive into this thrilling heist with Charlie and Lark.

More info on Goodreads..... 


Review:

To Catch A Rogue is the fourth novel in Bec McMaster’s London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series and is an enlightening, eventful and utterly enchanting story filled with witty banter, romance and excitement.

Charlie Todd lost his best friend three years ago when a reckless choice cost her the life of the only father she had ever known. Though he has forged a new family for himself in the Company of Rogues, Charlie has never stopped hoping to repair the relationship. Which is why when the leader of the Company of Rogues is kidnapped and the rescue mission requires the best thief out there, Charlie turns to that very special woman. Lark has spent years trying to forget her past but a single smile from Charlie Todd has always had the ability to make her weak in the knees. Their friendship was once the most important thing to her but in the years since the revolution, Lark has fought to overcome the unrequited feelings she has for Charlie. When he approaches her for help in an important mission, Larks first instinct is to say no but when it becomes clear Charlie will embark regardless of her decision Lark finds herself returning to the one place she swore she would never go. Secrets are revealed and hearts are on the line as the two former best friends explore the new passions that burn between them.

Bec McMaster finally offers fans the novel they have been waiting for—the highly anticipated story about Charlie and Lark. I’ve loved Charlie and Lark since they were children in the previous series and I feel as though I have watched them grow up. To Catch A Rogue was the compilation of all the moments of friendship, hilarity and childhood innocence they have shared finally being acted upon as adults. And with fantastic results!

McMaster was always going to need to bring her A-game with To Catch A Rogue as my expectations with this novel were high heading into it. I mean, come on! Its Lark and Charlie. Charlie and Lark. They needed a fantastic story and I think Bec McMaster truly did give them that. It was exciting, riveting, packed with sexual tension and witty banter and full of entertaining moments of passion and romance.

After eight novels set in London, I enjoyed the change of scenery as Bec McMaster takes her dashing series to Russia and into the heart of the Blood Court in To Catch A Rogue. I thought the brief glimpses of the court were highly intriguing and I loved how McMaster ties Larks past in with the Russian aspect. I know the next novel will be the last in this series but I am very much hopeful that we could one day explore this Russian Blue Blood world—I already know what characters I want McMaster to feature!

Lark and Charlie were lovely to follow and I highly enjoyed seeing Charlie persue Lark so completely. They were childhood friends and this foundation of friendship bled into a delectable tension as they explored the real feelings they had for one another. There was a sweet innocence to their romance that mingled with the sexual chemistry they had while an overall feeling of first love encompassed their relationship.

To Catch A Rogue is a fabulous read and leaves me highly excited to begin the fifth and final novel featuring Malloryn and Adele. I have no doubt that Bec McMaster will have an explosive conclusion up her sleeves and I can’t wait!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me
Publisher: Lochaber Press
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: October 30th 2018
Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: Another great read---I'm SOOOO ready for Malloryn and Adele's tale!

Book Shelf: You Only Love Twice (London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy #3) by Bec McMaster

With the clock ticking down, the Company of Rogues must find a deadly killer and stop them from assassinating the Queen... before London burns.

First rule of espionage: don't ever fall in love with your target.

Five years ago, Gemma Townsend learned the hard way what happens when you break this rule. She lost everything. Her mentor's trust. The man she loved. And almost her life. Love is a weakness she can never afford again.

When offered a chance at redemption, the seductive spy is determined to complete her assigned task: to track down a dangerous assassin known as the Chameleon, a mysterious killer sent after the queen, whose identity seems to constantly change.

But as her investigation leads Gemma into a trap, she's rescued by a shadowy figure she thought was dead—the double agent who once stole her heart.

A man with few memories, all Obsidian knows is Gemma betrayed him, and he wants revenge. But one kiss ignites the unextinguished passion between them, and he can't bring himself to kill her.

Can Obsidian ever trust her again? Or is history doomed to repeat itself? Because it soon becomes clear the Chameleon might be closer than either of them realized... and this time Gemma is in the line of fire.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

You Only Love Twice is the third instalment in the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series and is another deftly told, exciting and steamy story!

Gemma Townsend is trained in the art of seduction. Since a young child she has been sculpted into the ultimate spy but five years ago Gemma learned the hard way what happens when you break the biggest rule of espionage; don’t fall in love with your target. It cost her everything; her mentors trust, the man she loved and almost her life. When she was offered a chance at redemption, Gemma took it, becoming a member of the Company of Rogues in service to her Queen and country. Gemma is determined to right her wrongs until she comes across a face from her past that leaves her shaken. A dhamphir, Obsidian is a deadly assassin and a far cry from the man he once was. Though his history with Gemma remains largely a mystery thanks to missing memories, Obsidian knows that Gemma was the one to betray him and he’s determined to get his revenge. Obsession and passion rage as Obsidian struggles to kill his former enemy and the woman who destroyed him but when it becomes clear the truth about their past may not be as it seems, will Gemma and Obsidian have another chance at love? Or will their history be too much to overcome?

Bec McMaster continues to entrance with this series, proving she has no problem winning over even the most critical of readers. Heading into You Only Love Twice I was unsure just how much I would enjoy the story. I’m not the biggest fan of second-chance romances and Gemma has never really been someone I have connected with a whole lot. In fact, of all the characters we have encountered throughout both series she is the one I have probably been the least concerned about. That being said, I was pleasantly surprised by the person Gemma turned out to be.

A seductress and assassin, Gemma is trained and deadly. She knows how to use her looks and talents to bring a man to his knees and doesn’t hesitate to get the job done. In You Only Love Twice we discover a softer, even somewhat maternal side to Gemma where her feelings about those she loves is concerned. It’s subtle but Gemma absolutely adores her fellow Company members and I enjoyed seeing the love she has for each of them. Their bond is lovely and this side to Gemma helped me see past the seductress and into the heart of the woman.

It also didn’t hurt that Bec McMaster wrote Gemma’s weakness in the form of Obsidian, a former lover who she has never really let go of but who is now back in her life. I liked Obsidian—he and Gemma clearly adored one another and it became pretty clear from early on that someone had manipulated his memories for their own purpose and that his and Gemma’s past wasn’t necessarily what they both thought.

I enjoyed seeing them both come to discover the truth. You Only Love Twice is very exciting towards its final few chapters as Bec McMaster writes some edge of your seat events that will no doubt have a great impact on future stories. I’m super excited for Adele and Malloryn’s story and am dying to see them get together as a true husband and wife although Lark and Charlie’s tale is next and given they’ve been there since the beginning I have big expectations for their story!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me from Amazon.com
Publisher: Lochaber Press
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: August 14th 2018
Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: Another great read---I'm ready for more!

Book Shelf: The Mech Who Loved Me (London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy #2) by Bec McMaster

Ava McLaren is tired of being both a virgin, and a mere laboratory assistant for the Company of Rogues. When a baffling mystery rears its head, it presents her with the opportunity to work a real case... and perhaps get a taste of the passion that eludes her.

Blue bloods are dying from a mysterious disease, which should be impossible. Ava suspects there's more to the case than meets the eye and wants a chance to prove herself. There’s just one catch—she’s ordered to partner with the sexy mech, Kincaid, who's a constant thorn in her side. Kincaid thinks the only good blue blood is a dead one. He's also the very last man she would ever give her heart to… which makes him the perfect candidate for an affair.

The only rule? It ends when the case does.

But when an attempt on her life proves that Ava might be onto something, the only one who can protect her is Kincaid. Suddenly the greatest risk is not to their hearts, but whether they can survive a diabolical plot that threatens to destroy every blue blood in London—including Ava.

More info on Goodreads....


Review:

The Mech Who Loved Me is the second instalment in the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series and is another deeply passionate and beguiling romance featuring two fantastic leads and a love story that will ignite your blood.

Ava McLaren is tired of being both a virgin and a mere laboratory assistant for the Company of Rogues. After surviving the experiments of a mad-man, Ava has put all the efforts into controlling her new status as a blue blood but that has left little time for love or relationships. Given that the man she thought she wanted has recently married another, Ava is more determined than ever she to discover passion. If only she could find the right man to conduct her experiment with. Liam Kincaid is a mech who despises blue bloods. He’d rather kill them than work with them but as a member of the Company of Rogues he has recently been spending a lot of time with them—-and they’re not all as bad as he’d thought. Kincaid is a thorn in Ava’s side but there’s no denying the sensual and capable mech might be just what she’s looking for. Will Ava be able to convince Kincaid to let go of his hatred to give her a few nights of passion? Or will this affair become more than just a joining of bodies? Will it become a joining of their hearts?

I honestly feel that Bec McMaster’s novels seem to be getting better and better with each release. I’ve loved them all but I think that The Mech Who Loved Me is quite possibly my favourite so far—Ava and Kincaid’s story is simply that good! Continuing to follow the Company of Rogues, The Mech Who Loved Me sees Malloryn’s group of specifically selected individuals investing a new batch of mysterious deaths with Ava and Kincaid paired together to investigate the bodies.

Malloryn is quickly becoming a reluctant Cupid—first pairing Byrnes and Ingrid together and now Ava and Kincaid with electric results. Bec McMaster is wonderfully developing this next stage of her world as the characters navigate their lives after the revolution and face new threats to their fragile time of peace. I’m enjoying seeing old characters and new and discovering new elements of this steampunk world.

I absolutely adored Ava and Kincaid. I felt McMaster wrote Ava with so much dignity and grace and explored her residual feelings for Byrnes respectfully and without needing to resort to pettiness. Ava was genuinely happy for her friends Byrnes and Ingrid and it was highly enjoyable seeing her discover her own happiness. Ava has been through so much and experienced so much pain that she very much deserved to be treated and adored the way Kincaid treated and adored her.

Kincaid was very sexy as a formable mech with a dislike towards blue bloods but who couldn’t help but be drawn to Ava. An incorrigible ladies man in the past, Kincaid was sexual and passionate but I enjoyed that once he set his eyes on Ava she was the only one he saw. I enjoyed seeing his softer sides and the tender way he viewed her while also being her champion when both she and others doubted her.

Fiery and passionate with sexual undertones and a great storyline, The Mech Who Loved Me was a brilliant read and leaves me ready to discover what Bec McMaster has planned next!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me
Publisher: Lochaber Press
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: June 27th 2017
Buy: The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: This is definitely one of my favorite books in the series but I can't wait for more!

Book Shelf: Winter (Evermore Academy #1) by Audrey Grey

Welcome to Evermore Academy where the magic is dark, the immortals are beautiful, and being human SUCKS.

After spending my entire life avoiding the creatures that murdered my parents, one stupid mistake binds me to them for four years.

My penance? Become a human shadow at the infamous Evermore Academy, finishing school for the Seelie and Unseelie Fae courts.

All I want is to keep a low profile, but day one, I make an enemy of the most powerful Fae in the academy.

The Winter Prince is arrogant, cruel, and apparently also my Fae keeper. Meaning I’m in for months of torture.

But it only gets worse. Something dark and terrible looms over the academy. Humans are dying, ancient vendettas are resurfacing, and the courts are more bloodthirsty than ever.

What can one mortal girl do in a world full of gorgeous monsters?

Fight back with everything I have—and try not to fall in love in the process. 

More info on Goodreads.....


Review: 

Winter is the first novel in Audrey Grey’s new series Evermore Academy and is an absolutely sensational novel infused with passion, adventure and blossoming romance. The Cruel Prince meets Vampire Academy with a fabulous heroine and a swoon worthy love interest!

Summer Solstice lives in a world where she and those she loves struggle to put food on the table. It’s a stark difference to the opulent and luscious world of the Fae that mirrors the human one. Summer never expects to set foot in the land of the fae until one mistake sees her marked by the infamous Winter Prince for theft. The punishment for her crime? Drafted to Evermore Academy where humans are taught and trained to become shadows—the human protectors of the fae. What’s worse is that Summer’s fae keeper is none other than the cruel, arrogant and infuriating Winter Prince himself. Summer is sure she’s in for months of torture as the Prince’s shadow but what started out as punishment soon becomes something positive for Summer. If only she could figure out the Prince, who is caring one moment and cold the next. As something dark and dangerous looms over the academy, humans begin to die and Summer realises that the dangers within the academy are more than she first anticipated....including the danger of falling in love with a maddening fae prince who is all kinds of forbidden.

I absolutely LOVE Audrey Grey’s books—I’ve read every single one and have adored them all. So it’s saying something that I think the first instalment in the Evermore Academy series Winter is quite possibly her novel yet! Perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince and A Court of Thorns and Roses, Winter introduces readers to an intoxicating and beautifully written world of fae. Winter blends all the addictive elements of a great paranormal novel—action, danger, humour, romance—in an academy setting that is highly addictive.

The protagonist is Summer, a human girl is finds herself stepping into a whole new world when she is forced to attend Evermore Academy as penance for stealing from one of the fae. Summer was an awesome main character to follow! She’s intelligent and competent but also kind and noble. She genuinely cares about others and is willing to do the right thing at a risk to herself. I adored following her in this novel and seeing her stand up for herself against mean girls, cruel fae and infuriating princes. This is one heroine who just ticks all the boxes from the get go.

The world building within Winter is really enjoyable. I’m loving Audrey Grey’s take on the fae that explores an almost dystopian human world alongside a thriving, magical world of fae. The juxtaposition was enthralling and made for plenty of growth in our main character as she learnt of the fae history during her time at Evermore Academy. I’m looking forward to exploring more of the fae history and the darkling monsters in the rest of the series—-I can’t wait to see how Grey develops everything.

Summer’s love interest in this novel is the sexy Winter Prince, an intriguing and mysterious individual who is swoon-worthy and infuriating and deeply enigmatic. The Winter Prince and his motivations are very much a mystery during this novel. The chemistry between he and Summer is undeniable even as Audrey Grey keeps readers guessing as to the reasons behind many of his actions. The fire and electricity between Summer and the Winter Prince is magnetic and so addictive to read about—I devoured all the banter and bite between them and couldn’t help but want more each time.

Winter is a fantastically told academy tale. Academy novels have become all the range recently but it’s easy for authors to loose their storyline within the typical school setting. This is definitely NOT the case with Winter; quite possibly the best academy novel I’ve ever read as Audrey Grey infuses the story with fae mythology, tangible characters and a promising storyline.

As this instalment in the series comes to a close, I can’t wait to see what Audrey Grey has next for Summer and her Winter Prince in the next novel and second year of her attendance at Evermore Academy. Can’t wait to see what the feisty Summer gets up to next!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by author (Thank you Audrey!)
Publisher: Starfall Press
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: October 11th 2019
Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository
Final Thoughts: I absolutely adored this novel and can't wait for the next one!

Book Shelf: Mission: Improper (London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy #1) by Bec McMaster

Three years ago, London society changed forever, with a revolution placing the widowed Queen firmly on the throne her blue blood husband tried to take from her. Humans, verwulfen and mechs are no longer considered the lesser classes, but not everybody is happy with the new order…
 
Entire families have gone missing in the East End. When Caleb Byrnes receives an invitation to join the Company of Rogues as an undercover agent pledged to protect the crown, he jumps at the chance to find out who, or what, is behind the disappearances. Hunting criminals is what the darkly driven blue blood does best, and though he prefers to work alone, the opportunity is too good to resist.

The problem? He’s partnered with Ingrid Miller, the fiery and passionate verwulfen woman who won a private bet against him a year ago. Byrnes has a score to settle, but one stolen kiss and suddenly the killer is not the only thing Byrnes is interested in hunting.

Soon they’re chasing whispered rumours of a secret project gone wrong, and a monster that just might be more dangerous than either of them combined. The only way to find out more is to go undercover among the blue blood elite… But when their hunt uncovers a mysterious conspiracy, Byrnes and Ingrid must set aside their age-old rivalry if they have any chance at surviving a treacherous plot.

More info on Goodreads....


Review: 

Mission: Improper is the first instalment in Bec McMaster’s London Steampunk spin off series, London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy and is the continued exploration of her already wonderful steampunk world with new—and old—characters, new romances and new dangers.

Three years ago London society changed forever when a revolution brought down the prince consort and put the Queen on the throne. Many changes have occurred in the years since. Humans, mechs and verwulfen are no longer considered lessor than their blue blood counterparts and a time of peace has raged. Yet not everyone is pleased with the new order and when a series of disappearances occur an elite group of individuals are put together to discover the culprit, including Nighthawk Caleb Byrnes, a darkly driven investigator who prefers to work alone. To his dismay, Byrnes is partnered with Ingrid Miller a verwulfen who won a bet against him a year ago and who he hasn’t stopped thinking about since. Determined to settle the score, Byrnes sets about winning Ingrid’s set challenges but as stolen kisses burn, it soon becomes clear the thing Byrnes wants to win isn’t Ingrid in his bed...it’s her heart.

After I devoured the London Steampunk series I was stoked to discover I could jump straight into this spin-off. Of Silk and Steam ended so well but there were still so many characters I wanted to know more about and I’m super excited that Bec McMaster will explore them in this series.

Both Byrnes and Ingrid are two individuals we saw throughout the previous series and it was fantastic to see them front and center in Mission: Improper. Byrnes has always managed to get under everyone’s skin so well but this controlled and calculating Nighthawk has always been someone I wanted to know more about, while Ingrid has intrigued me since we met her and Rosa and Lynch’s story.

McMaster wonderfully explores the relationship and romance between Byrnes and Ingrid in this novel. Both are such strong individuals that it was somewhat surprising to see them so afraid to explore the connection between them. Fantastic chemistry and hilarious banter made for highly entertaining reading as they eventually acknowledged the depth of their feelings.

One of the things I love about Bec McMaster’s novels is that there are real story’s within books. There’s genuinely a mystery to solve or a killer to catch that the romance, sex and characterisation only enhance the storyline. McMaster litters her novels with funny, endearing and larger than life personalities that compliment her storylines. Intricate and addictive, I’m invested in the lives and happiness of all those McMaster introduces us to. Ava, Kincaid, Gemma, Charlie, Malloryn—-I want to read about them all and am excited to have that chance.

Fun, passionate and explosive, Mission Improper is a great start to this new world of London Steampunk I am excited to learn about. I have no doubt Bec McMaster has much in store as she offers readers new branches and aspects to her steampunk world. I can’t wait to begin Ava and Kincaid’s tale next and then all the ones that follow!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me via Amazon
Publisher: Lochaber Press
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: August 16th 2016
Buy: The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: Another brilliant novel from Bec McMaster---I'm ready to read more!

Book Shelf: Of Silk and Steam (London Steampunk #5) by Bec McMaster

Enemies. Allies. Lovers.

When her beloved father was assassinated, Lady Aramina swore revenge. The man responsible is well beyond her grasp, but his dangerously seductive heir, Leo Barrons, is fair game. When Mina obtains evidence proving that Leo is illegitimate, she has the means to destroy both the killer and his son, a man who troubles her heart and tempts her body.

A woman of mystery, Mina's long driven Leo crazy with glimpses of a fiery passion that lurks beneath her icy veneer. He knows she's hiding something, and he's determined to unravel her layer by silken layer. He just doesn't expect the beautiful liar to be the key to overthrowing the corrupt prince consort… or to saving his own carefully walled-off heart. 

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Of Silk and Steam is the fifth and final novel in the London Steampunk series by Bec McMaster and brings to a close this tantalizing and sensual saga with excitement, fervor and action as our beloved characters finally take a stand against their overbearing monarch.

When her beloved father died Lady Armina Duval swore revenge on the man she deemed responsible. As he was out of her grasp, Mina instead set her sights on his charming and seductive heir, Leo Barrons. As one of the few female blue bloods in existence, Mina has protected herself thanks to the cold, icy veneer she cultivates and no one has dared attempt to breach it….until Barrons. Leo Barrons has long coveted Mina. The snippets of fire he glimpses under her mask tempt him like nothing else and he is determined to discover the woman lurking within. Leo knows Mina is hiding something but when she discovers the truth about his true paternity, the revelation brings about the means for Mina finally to finally bring Leo down. Her desire to destroy his father has been so strong for so long, but are the feelings that Leo stirs within her more important than her vengeance? Will this duchess take a chance on love or will she and Leo lose their lives in the fight against the prince consort before she has a chance to find out?

London Steampunk has finally come to an end….and in what spectacular fashion! Engrossing, passionate and evocative, Of Silk and Steam is another lush romance from Bec McMaster that brings to a close what has been a thrilling series from start to finish. Proving that she knows what she’s doing, McMaster has continued to beautifully develop and explore her Victorian steampunk world with each novel and brought to life different personalities and characters readers can’t help but love.

As this final instalment concludes things, blue bloods Mina and Leo are front and centre as they explore the passionate desire that burns between them. Enemies by circumstances and lovers by choice, Mina and Leo were wonderful to read about and finally sink my teeth into. I’ve wanted to know more about them since the very first novel saw them exchange terse sentences that hinted at a past and Of Silk and Steam is the opportunity to finally discover just what exactly that is.

As one of only a few female blue bloods in existence, Mina has expectedly had to fight to prove she deserved her place in a male driven society but in Of Silk and Steam we finally discover some of the many secrets she has been hiding. I did like Mina. She’s a strong, capable woman but it was lovely seeing her let down her guards too as she gave into the desire she felt for Leo that she tried so hard to fight—there were softer sides to her that shone though.

I’ve loved Leo since we first met him and discovered he was Honoria’s brother. Over the series as he has become more and more involved in the storyline I have become more and more fascinated by discovering what lurks within his heart and heard. It was very satisfying finally seeing him get the girl. The fact that Leo had wanted Mina from the beginning was delightful, as was seeing him finally pursue her, even if she was reluctant—though she certainly did love the chase.

Of Silk and Steam builds to an epic second half of the novel as Blade, Will, Lena, Lynch, Rosalyn, Garrett, Rip, Charlie, Lark, Leo, Mina and their allies finally take their fight to the prince consort in order to overthrow his rule. So much of the series has been building towards this moment that it was surreal to finally see it come to pass. McMaster also manages to include moments of romance, humour and sweetness as the novel concludes.

With new lives---we’re talking a baby here--- and endless possibilities for the characters, Of Silk and Steam concludes beautifully and ends the series well. Thank goodness Bec McMaster decided to write a spin-off series however as there are still so many characters I want to read about; Charlie, Lark, Brynes, Anne, Ingrid, Kincaid….I plan to start that series as soon as possible so I can get lost in new branches of this stunning world!

Rating:
Source: Bought by me
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Format: Paperback
Release Date: March 3rd 2015
Buy: Angus & Robertson | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: A fantastic conclusion to this series. Bec McMaster is fabulous!

Book Shelf: Mirror Bound (The Witchling Academy #2) by Monica Sanz

Conspirator. Failure. Murderer.

Seraphina Dovetail is used to being called all these things. As the seventh-born daughter to a witch, and the cause of her mother losing both her powers and her life, Sera has always felt isolated. Until Nikolai Barrington.

The young professor not only took an interest in Sera—he took her into his home, hired her for his moonlighting detective agency, and gave her the one thing she’d always dreamed of: a chance. Under Barrington’s tutelage, Sera can finally take the School of Continuing Magic entrance exam to become an inspector and find her family. Now if only she could stop her growing attraction to her maddening boss—which is about as easy as this fiery elementalist quitting setting things on fire.

But when ghosts start dragging Sera into possessions so deep she can barely escape, and then the souls of lost witches and wizards appear trapped in mirrors, these two opposites will have to work together to uncover a much deeper secret that could destroy the Witchling world…

More info on Goodreads.....


Review: 

Mirror Bound is the second novel in The Witchling Academy series by Monica Sanz and is a darkly beguiling sequel that will rival its predecessor with is enigmatic storyline, lush writing and slow burn romance.

Seraphina Dovetail is a seventhborn; the seventh child of a witch and the cause of her mother’s loss of powers and life at the time of Sera’s birth. Scorned, ostracised and ridiculed, Sera has always felt alone. Until she met Nikolai Barrington. The young professor not only took an interest in Sera’s studies but he opened up his home to her when she was expelled from the Aetherium’s Witchling Academy. Sera dreams of becoming an Inspector and one day possibly finding her family, but with her memories locked away in her mind, finding out who she is seems like a faraway dream. Working alongside Barrington offers Sera a reprieve and an outlet for her magic and curiosity but as her affection and attraction to Barrington grows, Sera struggles with the knowledge a future between them is next to impossible. As their latest case sees missing children and ghosts dragging Sera into possessions so strong she looses grip on who she is, Sera will need to lean on Barrington and trust him with all she is if she has any hope of surviving.

I have to say before anything else that I am without a doubt bewitched by this series. Enchanted. Enthralled. Captivated. And absolutely in love with Sera and Barrington. As with the first novel Seventh Born, Monia Sanz once again sweeps her readers into a darkly magical world of defiance, magic and blossoming romance. Vivid and alluring, the setting is entrancing and protagonist Sera’s voice effortless to follow. Sanz details a rich and passionate gothic-esq atmosphere and keeps her readers bewitched with the mystery and intrigue she adds to the storyline as Sera and Barrington investigate a case of missing seventhborn children.

Mirror Bound once more unfolds through the perspective of protagonist and seventhborn Seraphina. Readers will have discovered Sera’s history in the first novel and be aware of all she must overcome as a seventhborn. Sera’s life has been one of pain, ridicule and cruelty in a society where people believe seventh children to be cursed and monsters. Sera fights to rise above her place and I genuinely adore all she is and all she is battling to become. Sera’s voice is a strong and passionate one. She’s not perfect and has her moments of vulnerability but she’s intelligent and forward thinking and genuine to follow. I feel like she has been continuously growing throughout each novel and I can only imagine the person she is going to be by series end.

After a lifetime knowing only isolation and loneliness, Sera has found a true friend and ally in the form of Nikolai Barrington, a professor and inspector who has taken her on as assistant. Theirs is a relationship full of respect and value, but also attraction, with a undeniable chemistry simmering between them. The slow burn of their romance shines throughout Mirror Bound with Monica Sanz weaving moments of electricity and tenderness to their exchanges. I adore seeing them together and have no shame in admitting their relationship is a highlight of the series for me; I devour any moments where they are together and feel like their romance has been written spectacularly by author Monica Sanz.

Rich and haunting, Mirror Bound was an exciting novel that was beautifully written and paced and features a heroine you can’t help but get behind. Monica Sanz builds this instalment to a shocking final few chapters and leaves me dying to see what is next in store for Sera and Barrington—I can’t wait for the opportunity to join them in their adventures once again!  

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by YA Bound Book Tours and the author (Thank you ladies!)
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: September 10th 2019 
Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks
Final Thoughts: Mirror Bound was a fabulous sequel and I can't wait for more of Sera and Barrington!