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Otherworld Stories #10.4
Counterfeit Magic
Return to the world of Kelley Armstrong's best-selling novels Dime Store Magic and Industrial Magic for a long original novella.
The first rule of a supernatural fight club? Don't kill your opponent.
When the fighters come with lethal spells, werewolf strength and half-demon powers, that can be a lot tougher than it sounds. It's hard to attract talent if they know they might not leave the ring alive. So when fighters at a California club start dying -- it's bad for business.
Witch detectives Paige Winterbourne and Savannah Levine take the case. Going undercover in the power-heavy arena of the fight club is a welcome change of pace for Paige, relegated to the role of The Wife as her husband struggles to find his place in his family's Cabal--the corporate Mafia of the supernatural world.
As Paige is drawn deeper into new and dangerous corners of her world, she quickly discovers the greatest threat isn't the killer in her sights. It's something much, much closer to home. And this is one fight she can't afford to lose.
The first rule of a supernatural fight club? Don't kill your opponent.
When the fighters come with lethal spells, werewolf strength and half-demon powers, that can be a lot tougher than it sounds. It's hard to attract talent if they know they might not leave the ring alive. So when fighters at a California club start dying -- it's bad for business.
Witch detectives Paige Winterbourne and Savannah Levine take the case. Going undercover in the power-heavy arena of the fight club is a welcome change of pace for Paige, relegated to the role of The Wife as her husband struggles to find his place in his family's Cabal--the corporate Mafia of the supernatural world.
As Paige is drawn deeper into new and dangerous corners of her world, she quickly discovers the greatest threat isn't the killer in her sights. It's something much, much closer to home. And this is one fight she can't afford to lose.
141 pages, Nook
First published January 1, 2010
61 people are currently reading
3765 people want to read
About the author
Kelley Armstrong
302 books33.5k followersKelley Armstrong has been telling stories since before she could write. Her earliest written efforts were disastrous. If asked for a story about girls and dolls, hers would invariably feature undead girls and evil dolls, much to her teachers' dismay. All efforts to make her produce "normal" stories failed.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
April 25, 2022
This is a mostly Lucas and Paige novella w/ some Savannah (who for a portion of this goes by "Georgia" lolz), and a dash of Adam.
1. Lucas and Paige are not my favorite. No reason that I can point at with my finger--they just aren't.
2. Sometimes I think I'm fooling myself when I think that I only have a couple of major book turns offs: child victims, rape, cheating . . . those (I thought) were the big ones. If any of those three things happen in book, chances are it's going a get a BIG thumbs down from me.
HOWEVER, I've recently been made aware of another book turn off--Strong relationships with a solid foundation being threatened/questioned as a result of: an ex-lover/spouse/whatever showing up and trying to get back in there, a pretty, young thing showing up thinking that a an existing relationship is merely an obstacle to overcome, and any variations of those situations.
They. Make. Me. Burn.
I about threw myself off my roof while reading the latest installment of my favorite series last summer. Word on the street is that the new Mercy Thompson book is going to make me attempt another jump, and the only reason that I'm writing this review right now (instead of throwing a temper tantrum) is that Lucas and Paige. Are not. My favorite.
But it was a close thing.
Other than that it was decent. Cortez-Winterbourne Investigations did what they do best and Savannah and Adam provided comic relief. It was cool to get Paige's insight into the ever growing and changing relationships of her co-workers (wink, wink, nudge, nudge), and fun was had by all.
1. Lucas and Paige are not my favorite. No reason that I can point at with my finger--they just aren't.
2. Sometimes I think I'm fooling myself when I think that I only have a couple of major book turns offs: child victims, rape, cheating . . . those (I thought) were the big ones. If any of those three things happen in book, chances are it's going a get a BIG thumbs down from me.
HOWEVER, I've recently been made aware of another book turn off--Strong relationships with a solid foundation being threatened/questioned as a result of: an ex-lover/spouse/whatever showing up and trying to get back in there, a pretty, young thing showing up thinking that a an existing relationship is merely an obstacle to overcome, and any variations of those situations.
They. Make. Me. Burn.
I about threw myself off my roof while reading the latest installment of my favorite series last summer. Word on the street is that the new Mercy Thompson book is going to make me attempt another jump, and the only reason that I'm writing this review right now (instead of throwing a temper tantrum) is that Lucas and Paige. Are not. My favorite.
But it was a close thing.
Other than that it was decent. Cortez-Winterbourne Investigations did what they do best and Savannah and Adam provided comic relief. It was cool to get Paige's insight into the ever growing and changing relationships of her co-workers (wink, wink, nudge, nudge), and fun was had by all.
March 4, 2011
Paige's books are not favorites of mine and I dislike the narrator of her audiobooks in a major way. The Paige/Lucas pairing never worked for me romance-wise. It is just so infinitely dull! In this novella their relationship has a particularly rinse-and-repeat quality to it. Whenever I got to some vague allusion to the fab schmexy times these two apparently have behind the closed doors, I couldn't stop myself from rolling my eyes. How many times should this be repeated? Please, show, don't tell! And don't get me started on Paige's on-her-knees-in-the-closet "special" - I've read it before. Again, no need to revisit. Show me some new tricks.
However, in spite of my gripes, Counterfeit Magic is still as entertaining as all Kelley Armstrong's works are. A little bit of mystery, a little bit of magic, some butt-kicking and relationship drama.
What I don't get though is why Savannah is so much fun when she makes guest appearances and has personality of a wet noodle in her own book?
However, in spite of my gripes, Counterfeit Magic is still as entertaining as all Kelley Armstrong's works are. A little bit of mystery, a little bit of magic, some butt-kicking and relationship drama.
What I don't get though is why Savannah is so much fun when she makes guest appearances and has personality of a wet noodle in her own book?
March 13, 2017
Counterfeit Magic takes place right before Waking the Witch and is told from Paige Winterbourne's perspective. In this novella, Paige and company are hired to investigate a death in one of the supernatural fight clubs. I really loved this one, even though it ends a little abruptly. What really drew me in was seeing the emotional struggle Paige and Lucas were facing as he steps firmly into his role of heir to the Cortez Cabal. I would highly recommend this to fans of the series.
January 21, 2019
I am not sure how I feel about this one, it was an ok story. I just don’t like how it made me feel.
It was short and to the point, don’t really have a lot to say really. I didn’t believe Lucas could do something like that it all just felt a little off. The Adam thing too was weird but it got worked out.
Again not bad narration just different and very Paige like.
It was short and to the point, don’t really have a lot to say really. I didn’t believe Lucas could do something like that it all just felt a little off. The Adam thing too was weird but it got worked out.
Again not bad narration just different and very Paige like.
April 8, 2019
In the Otherworld Secrets anthology.
Read
August 5, 2011I first ordered this off Amazon but of course the book was limited edition like most of her novellas now and I was unable to get it. However I have managed to get it in audio book form, which is new for me. It took me a while to get passed the annoying voice reading it to me.
I found Paige’s character felt very different to what I’ve read in books, her character seemed more picky of people and less forgiving. Normally she’s very nice even to cruel people. Her relationship with Lucas also didn’t feel right, I couldn’t believe she thought he would cheat on her. I believe the book needed to have more of her and Lucas together but that issue is addressed in the book.
There are also little hints about a possible romance between Savannah and Adam, there nothing between them yet but Paige does talk about Adam changing feeling towards her. I thought Paige would have more to say on the topic, I means her best friend is falling for her ward that’s a little strange. But she just has a positive opinion saying that the age different doesn’t bother her and that Adam would be a good match as he could handle Savannah.
I believe there should have been more to the fight club as that was the major advertisment of what was going to happen in the book. I wanted to see Savannah kick more butt.
After personal demon I did wonder what happens to Lucas, I mean the cabal could never go to his other brother Carlos but it would be a betrayal of his character if he took over. That issue is slightly addressed in this book while Lucas doesn’t say he taking over he is getting more in to the business which also leaves Paige open to being hurt as they’ll never accept her.
Which leads me perfectly into talking about the ending... Sort of. I can’t believe Adam, I know he was possessed so he has a excuses but still eww, its just wrong. I found Paige’s and Lucas’s joke really funny on Carlos and it serves him right. I don’t even see why he wants to run the cabal, apart from the money but he’s best getting a small useless job that way he won’t have to work, his dad will still give him a massive pay check. It is nice to hear that he’s no longer on the drunks and alcohol but he’s still evil of course.
I found Paige’s character felt very different to what I’ve read in books, her character seemed more picky of people and less forgiving. Normally she’s very nice even to cruel people. Her relationship with Lucas also didn’t feel right, I couldn’t believe she thought he would cheat on her. I believe the book needed to have more of her and Lucas together but that issue is addressed in the book.
There are also little hints about a possible romance between Savannah and Adam, there nothing between them yet but Paige does talk about Adam changing feeling towards her. I thought Paige would have more to say on the topic, I means her best friend is falling for her ward that’s a little strange. But she just has a positive opinion saying that the age different doesn’t bother her and that Adam would be a good match as he could handle Savannah.
I believe there should have been more to the fight club as that was the major advertisment of what was going to happen in the book. I wanted to see Savannah kick more butt.
After personal demon I did wonder what happens to Lucas, I mean the cabal could never go to his other brother Carlos but it would be a betrayal of his character if he took over. That issue is slightly addressed in this book while Lucas doesn’t say he taking over he is getting more in to the business which also leaves Paige open to being hurt as they’ll never accept her.
Which leads me perfectly into talking about the ending... Sort of. I can’t believe Adam, I know he was possessed so he has a excuses but still eww, its just wrong. I found Paige’s and Lucas’s joke really funny on Carlos and it serves him right. I don’t even see why he wants to run the cabal, apart from the money but he’s best getting a small useless job that way he won’t have to work, his dad will still give him a massive pay check. It is nice to hear that he’s no longer on the drunks and alcohol but he’s still evil of course.
August 16, 2013
Partially, this has just never been my favorite subsection of this world and partially it rested on a plot I don't like much. I also didn't totally follow the larger plot.
BUT. Mostly, I read this because I needed to read writing that just flowed for me and Kelley Armstrong's does that.
BUT. Mostly, I read this because I needed to read writing that just flowed for me and Kelley Armstrong's does that.
own-but-unread
March 28, 201031st December 2010
January 27, 2018
Someone is messing with Paige and Lucas trying to break them up. Also get a little peek at Adam and Paige.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2022
This is book 10.5 in a series I've never read. Why on earth has this been on my 'to-read' shelf since 2018?
January 10, 2011
Oh, guys. Before I even attempt to do justice to Kelley Armstrong's gorgeous world I need to talk about how very, very pretty this book is. I sprung for the signed, limited edition hardcover of this little beauty and I am so incredibly impressed by it. The interior artwork is gorgeous, the paper is heavyweight and it feels downright decadent against my fingers. If I could date a book, I'd date this one. It's just that pretty. *swoon* I totally get why people COMMIT CRIMES against other people over BOOKS! I GET IT!
So, let's talk about this book. It's set between Frostbitten (book 10) and Waking the Witch (book 11) (Oh, yeah, here's my review of WtW - review) in the Women of the Otherworld series. Novella length, it plunks us down into Paige and Lucas' life as they attempt to help a new client investigate her brother's death. I loved the slice of life we were given and the interactions between Paige, Lucas, Savannah and Adam. Whether or not those 4 are bound by blood, they are family. They care for one another and they work well as a team.
Of course, Kelley Armstrong weaves a tight story. Savannah is her usual exuberant self, bounding into potential danger like an overgrown (and potentially deadly) puppy. Paige is still trying to balance her role as Savannah's guardian against her desire to allow her to spread her wings. Teaming the two of them up is a study of contrasts. And it works wonderfully.
In the end, though, this story is less about finding out who the bad guy is and more about Paige learning to trust in herself and those around her. It's sweet and regardless of its length it adds depth to each of the characters in it.
Which is fabulous!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
So, let's talk about this book. It's set between Frostbitten (book 10) and Waking the Witch (book 11) (Oh, yeah, here's my review of WtW - review) in the Women of the Otherworld series. Novella length, it plunks us down into Paige and Lucas' life as they attempt to help a new client investigate her brother's death. I loved the slice of life we were given and the interactions between Paige, Lucas, Savannah and Adam. Whether or not those 4 are bound by blood, they are family. They care for one another and they work well as a team.
Of course, Kelley Armstrong weaves a tight story. Savannah is her usual exuberant self, bounding into potential danger like an overgrown (and potentially deadly) puppy. Paige is still trying to balance her role as Savannah's guardian against her desire to allow her to spread her wings. Teaming the two of them up is a study of contrasts. And it works wonderfully.
In the end, though, this story is less about finding out who the bad guy is and more about Paige learning to trust in herself and those around her. It's sweet and regardless of its length it adds depth to each of the characters in it.
Which is fabulous!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 28, 2011
Bitten was the first ever Urban Fantasy book I ever read and still one of my favourites. So I get very excited whenever a new Otherworld book is released – and disappointed when I can’t get my hands on them straight away. Counterfeit Magic isn’t a full novel, but a novella that was originally a limited edition release complete with beautiful art work. I wasn’t able to get my hands on a copy, but a couple of years later and the magic of e-books means I can finally read this story, set shortly before Waking The Witch with the focus on Paige and Savannah – two of my favourite characters!
While we spend the most time with Paige and Savannah, this equally has both Lucas and Adam in starring male roles. I’ve always liked Lucas and the emotional core of this story is how Paige and Lucas are adapting to his unique role in the supernatural world – heir to one of the most powerful sorcerer cabels – but would prefer to be fighting for the underdog. Together they have always been a favourite couple of mine because I could always relate to them. And this time their marriage is struggling to cope with real life.
While the initial investigation was interesting, it was soon dropped in favour of the relationship exploration and afterwards solved off-screen which was a little disappointing. I would really like a full length novel based on one of Paige and Lucas’s investigations! In general though this was a great taster of one of my favourite series and has only made my more desperate to pick up the latest book!
As a side note - the kindle versions does include some of the original artwork and can I say even in black and white they are beautiful. So gorgeous. I love them so much.
Recommended for fans of Patricia Briggs and Rachel Vincent. 7.5 out of 10.
While we spend the most time with Paige and Savannah, this equally has both Lucas and Adam in starring male roles. I’ve always liked Lucas and the emotional core of this story is how Paige and Lucas are adapting to his unique role in the supernatural world – heir to one of the most powerful sorcerer cabels – but would prefer to be fighting for the underdog. Together they have always been a favourite couple of mine because I could always relate to them. And this time their marriage is struggling to cope with real life.
While the initial investigation was interesting, it was soon dropped in favour of the relationship exploration and afterwards solved off-screen which was a little disappointing. I would really like a full length novel based on one of Paige and Lucas’s investigations! In general though this was a great taster of one of my favourite series and has only made my more desperate to pick up the latest book!
As a side note - the kindle versions does include some of the original artwork and can I say even in black and white they are beautiful. So gorgeous. I love them so much.
Recommended for fans of Patricia Briggs and Rachel Vincent. 7.5 out of 10.
January 10, 2012
As an avid Otherworld fan, and one whom has listened to the majority of the books as Audiobooks, doing so for this limited edition novella was no big deal. In fact, with the very first disk I found myself near tears with nostalgia, as Ms. Merlington's voice sounded exactly the same as it did way back when I was listening to Industrial Magic, featuring the same characters. In fact, that was a bit of a problem-- she did the same little kid voice for Savannah at 21 that she did for Savannah at 12.
Regardless, the story itself was as entertaining as usual, except I felt like the author missed the mark. While I absolutely love the premise that Savannah (the high-powered witch/sorcerer/demon hybrid) would join a supernatural fight club, I was disappointed by the shortage of excitement. Her fight scene was decent, although it sounded more like a recitation of spells as performed in a turn-based video game. Then there was only a brief description of maybe two or three other fights Savannah didn't participate in, and then the story took a twist almost completely ignoring the fight club entirely. When the story came back to focusing upon the supernatural family that makes up the main characters it was still entertaining, but just left me feeling like I was missing out on something new and exciting.
Regardless, the story itself was as entertaining as usual, except I felt like the author missed the mark. While I absolutely love the premise that Savannah (the high-powered witch/sorcerer/demon hybrid) would join a supernatural fight club, I was disappointed by the shortage of excitement. Her fight scene was decent, although it sounded more like a recitation of spells as performed in a turn-based video game. Then there was only a brief description of maybe two or three other fights Savannah didn't participate in, and then the story took a twist almost completely ignoring the fight club entirely. When the story came back to focusing upon the supernatural family that makes up the main characters it was still entertaining, but just left me feeling like I was missing out on something new and exciting.
August 19, 2023
Better than Dime Store Magic. Pagie has settled into "real self" and is closer to the character of the later series. As with all the books in this series, this is a story about the characters coming to terms with themselves, the supernatural world, their families, community, and trauma.
This book is a major world building piece. It fleshes out the world's sorcerer cabels. How they've grown in power, magic, and money in the modern world. The gendered elements persist. But we see there are female super naturals operating inside the cabel and under cabel protection. The anti-witch sentiment continues, and we see how those prejudices play out on the sorcerer's side of things.
We are also introduced to additional types of supernaturals: Druids, Clarivoyants, ghosts gods, the fates. We see the first peaks into the afterlife and learn there are many deminsions and versions of the afterlife.
It is also an important book for the growth of Pagie and Lucas's romance. And we see two new Women of the Otherworld introduced: Eve and Jamie who are key characters in the next two books.
Warning: Continued warning about violence in this book. Particularly violence against children and childhood neglect.
This book is a major world building piece. It fleshes out the world's sorcerer cabels. How they've grown in power, magic, and money in the modern world. The gendered elements persist. But we see there are female super naturals operating inside the cabel and under cabel protection. The anti-witch sentiment continues, and we see how those prejudices play out on the sorcerer's side of things.
We are also introduced to additional types of supernaturals: Druids, Clarivoyants, ghosts gods, the fates. We see the first peaks into the afterlife and learn there are many deminsions and versions of the afterlife.
It is also an important book for the growth of Pagie and Lucas's romance. And we see two new Women of the Otherworld introduced: Eve and Jamie who are key characters in the next two books.
Warning: Continued warning about violence in this book. Particularly violence against children and childhood neglect.
April 11, 2015
Paige and Lucas have had relationship issues since Lucas started working with the Cabal, whose members ignore Paige. Now Paige is feeling jealous as Lucas has to work with an attractive young client who is obviously trying to seduce him. Savannah goes undercover at a supernatural fight club to find out what happened to the woman's brother.
I prefer stories about the wolf pack but this was a decent story focusing on Paige, Lucas, Adam and Savannah. I'm not a Savannah fan because I find her to be a whiny brat who throws magic she can't control at every problem, but in this book she was fine. The story about the boy going missing after being suspected of cheating the fight club in a betting scam was quite interesting. However I was more intrigued by the relationship crisis facing Paige and Lucas.
Paige wants to get back to the way things used to be and she is trying to think how to get things back on track. Lucas doesn't seem to like Ava much much Paige starts to get concerned when she can never get Lucas on the phone. Adam is acting a little strange and Savannah just wants to unleash a few spells on Ava...
Is Lucas cheating on Paige? You'll need to read the book to find out as I'm not putting spoilers in. I did like the story though.
I prefer stories about the wolf pack but this was a decent story focusing on Paige, Lucas, Adam and Savannah. I'm not a Savannah fan because I find her to be a whiny brat who throws magic she can't control at every problem, but in this book she was fine. The story about the boy going missing after being suspected of cheating the fight club in a betting scam was quite interesting. However I was more intrigued by the relationship crisis facing Paige and Lucas.
Paige wants to get back to the way things used to be and she is trying to think how to get things back on track. Lucas doesn't seem to like Ava much much Paige starts to get concerned when she can never get Lucas on the phone. Adam is acting a little strange and Savannah just wants to unleash a few spells on Ava...
Is Lucas cheating on Paige? You'll need to read the book to find out as I'm not putting spoilers in. I did like the story though.
November 28, 2022
REREAD 2022
Nothing new really to say, that I haven't said before.
On a personal note, however, this is the first physical book I've been able to read without issue in years! So yay!
Keeping the original rating.
----------------------------------------
REREAD 2020
I don't know what more there is to say about this book than what I wrote in the original review - as messy as it may be. I like Savannah's part in the story, and I think it would have been better if she was the MC and not Paige, but I understand how the personal-story works for Paige and Lucas, and the underlying meaning.
I have to admit I'm unsure if I should bump this book down a rating or not. There's no specific reason behind it, more of a feeling.
New rating: 3/5 stars
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I've never been that big a fan of Paige.
She is OK, and she has her own strenght's that I respect, but she is not a character I prefer to read about.
Therefor I was really slow to read this book, but Armstrong didn't dissapoint!
Read this in 1 sitting - literarly!
The writing is good, and the story is good. Maybe a bit short, but it is a short story, after all.
But I think she could write a full novel on this plot!
Original rating: 4/5 stars
Nothing new really to say, that I haven't said before.
On a personal note, however, this is the first physical book I've been able to read without issue in years! So yay!
Keeping the original rating.
----------------------------------------
REREAD 2020
I don't know what more there is to say about this book than what I wrote in the original review - as messy as it may be. I like Savannah's part in the story, and I think it would have been better if she was the MC and not Paige, but I understand how the personal-story works for Paige and Lucas, and the underlying meaning.
I have to admit I'm unsure if I should bump this book down a rating or not. There's no specific reason behind it, more of a feeling.
New rating: 3/5 stars
---------------------------------------
I've never been that big a fan of Paige.
She is OK, and she has her own strenght's that I respect, but she is not a character I prefer to read about.
Therefor I was really slow to read this book, but Armstrong didn't dissapoint!
Read this in 1 sitting - literarly!
The writing is good, and the story is good. Maybe a bit short, but it is a short story, after all.
But I think she could write a full novel on this plot!
Original rating: 4/5 stars
April 11, 2012
This is a short novel that comes late in a 'series' so it's probably not a good place to start. But I'd heard good things about Kelley Armstrong, and was feeling like a short audiobook, so I picked it up on a whim from the library. It's not anything earth-shattering, but it scratches a nice itch, because it's a fantasy story set (mostly) in the real world that is about grownups living their grownup lives. Instead of a coming-of-age story about the epic battle of good and evil, or a romance about meeting the love of your life, it's more about making the kind of compromises needed to do good in the long term, and having the faith and patience to maintain the relationships you already have. (It's also a mystery story about supernatural fight clubs, if you dig that kind of thing, but that's almost beside the point.) A nice breath of fresh air, and it makes me want to read more of Armstrong's books.
December 26, 2011
I love the Women of the Otherworld series and have wanted to read this novella since it first came out. So after getting a kindle this week Counterfeit Magic was my first ebook purchase.
I really enjoy Savannah and Paige so it was great to get to read another story featuring them. I will be so sad when the last book 13 comes out.
Counterfeit Magic has Paige and Savannah go undercover in a supernatural fight club. We get some of Adam and Lucas too!
I love this series. So I enjoyed the novella. It's not as in depth as the regular Otherworld novels. But still a satisfying story. A must for any fan of the series.
February 4, 2011
It's hard not to like this book. The witchy/cabal contingent are some of my favorite characters in the Armstrong-verse, and this focused on them. It seemed the shorter format kept everything moving along too, no dead air. No side trips. No distractions. I wanted more, which is a great thing to say at the end of a novella. I would give this five stars except......well, it was a little unbelievable. I mean, really? I loved the resolution, though, I really did. Served him right. But, you know, I just wanted to shake Paige. I think I was meant to feel that way, though. Really, this only served to make me more anxious for the next full length book in the series.
April 17, 2017
I loved this one. I already read the 11th and 12th book and Paige's observations and her conclusions add something to the plot I wouldn't want to miss.
The plot (supernatural fight clubs! ftw!) was very funny, action-packed and in my opinion also very emotional. Not the fight club itself, but the character-driven part of the plot. My heart ached for all of them.
Paige and Lucas aren't my favorite people in the world. I like them and I loved to read about them, because somehow it's easy to relate to these two. They're a unique couple and although they aren't my favs it's been nice to re-visit their part of the world.
Now, of course, I need to reread Savannah's books.. :>
The plot (supernatural fight clubs! ftw!) was very funny, action-packed and in my opinion also very emotional. Not the fight club itself, but the character-driven part of the plot. My heart ached for all of them.
Paige and Lucas aren't my favorite people in the world. I like them and I loved to read about them, because somehow it's easy to relate to these two. They're a unique couple and although they aren't my favs it's been nice to re-visit their part of the world.
Now, of course, I need to reread Savannah's books.. :>
January 11, 2012
"Superhero Fight Club" is one of those stock storyline that always sounds like a good idea, but rarely if ever lives up to the promise of it. So I was kind of relieved when Armstrong introduced it, but then quickly moved away from it, using a series of suspicious deaths at the fight club as an excuse to look at the family dynamics of the Winterbourne/Cortez family. I'm a big fan of Paige and Lucas, so that was right up my alley, but I can't see this being of interest to someone who's not already sold on the characters.
December 28, 2010
This was a quick little story that packs quite a punch. Paige, Lucas, Savannah, and Adam are on a case which seems pretty straight forward. However once they start to investigate they realize all is not what it seems and the bad guy is actually a pretty predictable one. In the end they all get the drop on the bad guy, pulling a quick one over on him. This story seems like it is setting things up for the next full length book, which will be interesting to see what happens there.
August 10, 2016
Please note: this is a novella set in the Women of the Otherworld universe. Keeping this mind, I very much enjoyed this short foray into Paige and Lucas's business life. However, as it is in any world, things are not as as simple as they seem on the surface. With just a short 141 pages, Ms. Armstrong has you in her grasp. I read this book in one sitting and if you are a true fan of the series, please find a copy to buy or borrow and lose yourself in it's pages!
December 25, 2010
I really like this story, but then I have not read a book or short story in the Women of the Otherworld series that I haven't liked (though stories with Clay are my favorite). This story really makes me want to read Spell Bound.
March 22, 2011
Nice novella, focuses mainly on Paige / Lucas / Savannah but enjoyable all the same. Shows us an investigation, more family stuff, more Adam. Bonus story, could maybe read it as a stand-alone but will probably seem a bit pointless if you dont know the back-story.
January 29, 2012
This was a short novella, and took me a couple of sessions to read. It features Lucas, Paige & Savannah in one of their investigations into supernatural goings-on. Can't really say much more about it, but if you are a Kelley Armstrong fan you will enjoy it.
July 22, 2022
Five reasons to read Counterfeit Magic:
1) Supernatural fight clubs. That concept alone would have completely sold this story for me.
2) Lucas's changing role in his father's company fascinates me because it's the ultimate sacrifice. In a series that's dark but favours happy endings, Lucas's path is all about the tragedy of growing up and having to compromise your ideals. He is the character with the longest and most difficult journey.
3) The tension between Paige and Lucas that stems from Lucas's involvement in the Cortez Cabal is excellent because it's realistic and makes their relationship feel more three dimensional.
4) Savannah is very fun in this story, and her personality really shines through.
5) Paige is dealing with a lot of insecurities but there are two moments that reminded me of why I love her so much: when she advises a female employee to join her male co-workers when they hold meetings in strip clubs and when she masterminds the trick she and Lucas play on Carlos.
Two drawbacks to Counterfeit Magic:
1) The thought that Lucas might cheat on Paige is laughable, so a lot of the underlying tension in this story didn't work for me because the threat didn't ring true. A consequence of that is that Paige's reaction to the threat seemed like an overreaction. The scenario could have worked had it been framed differently with more backstory to support Paige's fears instead of relying on stuff that happened "off-screen".
2) I wanted more of the fight club as well as more of Paige and Lucas interacting.
1) Supernatural fight clubs. That concept alone would have completely sold this story for me.
2) Lucas's changing role in his father's company fascinates me because it's the ultimate sacrifice. In a series that's dark but favours happy endings, Lucas's path is all about the tragedy of growing up and having to compromise your ideals. He is the character with the longest and most difficult journey.
3) The tension between Paige and Lucas that stems from Lucas's involvement in the Cortez Cabal is excellent because it's realistic and makes their relationship feel more three dimensional.
4) Savannah is very fun in this story, and her personality really shines through.
5) Paige is dealing with a lot of insecurities but there are two moments that reminded me of why I love her so much: when she advises a female employee to join her male co-workers when they hold meetings in strip clubs and when she masterminds the trick she and Lucas play on Carlos.
Two drawbacks to Counterfeit Magic:
1) The thought that Lucas might cheat on Paige is laughable, so a lot of the underlying tension in this story didn't work for me because the threat didn't ring true. A consequence of that is that Paige's reaction to the threat seemed like an overreaction. The scenario could have worked had it been framed differently with more backstory to support Paige's fears instead of relying on stuff that happened "off-screen".
2) I wanted more of the fight club as well as more of Paige and Lucas interacting.
March 26, 2021
The first rule of a supernatural fight club? Don't kill your opponent.
When the fighters come with lethal spells, werewolf strength and half-demon powers, that can be a lot tougher than it sounds. It's hard to attract talent if they know they might not leave the ring alive. So when fighters at a California club start dying -- it's bad for business.
Witch detectives Paige Winterbourne and Savannah Levine take the case. Going undercover in the power-heavy arena of the fight club is a welcome change of pace for Paige, relegated to the role of The Wife as her husband struggles to find his place in his family's Cabal--the corporate Mafia of the supernatural world.
As Paige is drawn deeper into new and dangerous corners of her world, she quickly discovers the greatest threat isn't the killer in her sights. It's something much, much closer to home. And this is one fight she can't afford to lose.
Heather's Notes
This was not a bad story and I usually like Lucas and Paige, but this story was about problems in their relationship. Which I don't like. Also they didn't even show you the resolution to the case. I would have liked to see how they resolved instead of just hearing they would. Since I have started the next book, I know it is going to be shown there either.
When the fighters come with lethal spells, werewolf strength and half-demon powers, that can be a lot tougher than it sounds. It's hard to attract talent if they know they might not leave the ring alive. So when fighters at a California club start dying -- it's bad for business.
Witch detectives Paige Winterbourne and Savannah Levine take the case. Going undercover in the power-heavy arena of the fight club is a welcome change of pace for Paige, relegated to the role of The Wife as her husband struggles to find his place in his family's Cabal--the corporate Mafia of the supernatural world.
As Paige is drawn deeper into new and dangerous corners of her world, she quickly discovers the greatest threat isn't the killer in her sights. It's something much, much closer to home. And this is one fight she can't afford to lose.
Heather's Notes
This was not a bad story and I usually like Lucas and Paige, but this story was about problems in their relationship. Which I don't like. Also they didn't even show you the resolution to the case. I would have liked to see how they resolved instead of just hearing they would. Since I have started the next book, I know it is going to be shown there either.
January 23, 2018
Paige and Lucas take on a case involving a supernatural fight club, a gambling ring and the obnoxious sister of a dead fighter. The case story is mostly Cassandra and Paige, but the background story with Paige, Lucas and Adam got me both crying and angry. Nice little twist at the end.
I’m not sure whether I agree with Paige on how she handles the client and the Cabal or whether I wish she’d stand up for herself. I understand her reasons but there’s got to be a better way than just leaving to your husband. I think I would have kicked her out and put the wards back up hoping she hit them and got hurt. I like Cassandra’s methods and I don’t think Carlos was handled hard enough.
Footnote; 1) there’s several instances of female discrimination in this story, mainly against Paige. People always think male against female, but females can be just as demeaning to other females, if not more so.
Fave scenes: looking for the printer toner, Cassandra’s fight and the missing buckthorn.
I’m not sure whether I agree with Paige on how she handles the client and the Cabal or whether I wish she’d stand up for herself. I understand her reasons but there’s got to be a better way than just leaving to your husband. I think I would have kicked her out and put the wards back up hoping she hit them and got hurt. I like Cassandra’s methods and I don’t think Carlos was handled hard enough.
Footnote; 1) there’s several instances of female discrimination in this story, mainly against Paige. People always think male against female, but females can be just as demeaning to other females, if not more so.
Fave scenes: looking for the printer toner, Cassandra’s fight and the missing buckthorn.
January 30, 2023
Paige and Lucas are the least favourite characters for so many people when it comes to the Otherworld series, yet they are my favourite. The werewolves come a close second, but Paige and Lucas will always have my heart. I’m one those people who wants more stories from them, enjoyed the way they opened the Otherworld up to new elements, and found my interest deepening whenever they appeared in the series. Therefore, it should come as no surprise to find out I adored Counterfeit Magic. It had the fun I always expect from the couple, plus some drama, and I found myself devouring it in no time. As a fan of Paige and Lucas, this hit the right spot to give me more of their story and to see how things developed between them.
Without a doubt, this was a fabulous addition to the Otherworld universe. If, like me, you’re a Paige and Lucas fan, you need to give this one a read.
Without a doubt, this was a fabulous addition to the Otherworld universe. If, like me, you’re a Paige and Lucas fan, you need to give this one a read.
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