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Warriors of the Mist #1
My Lady Mage
A cursed destiny. A band of warriors. And one troubled kingdom.
It is whispered in Agathia that the legendary warriors of the mist—cursed by the gods—can be summoned only when a champion is needed and the cause is just. Gideon, their captain, knows this to be the one path that will lead his men to redemption—lest they face an eternity of damnation.
Years have passed since anyone has journeyed to the river's edge, but times are desperate. Oppressed by a cruel guardian whose dark magic threatens to destroy her people, the beautiful and courageous Merewen calls upon the bespelled warriors. In Gideon she finds more than a champion, and in his arms, more than protection. However, their enemies are fighting with a power darker than anything than they imagined, and should Gideon fail, she will lose everything she holds dear—including her heart.
It is whispered in Agathia that the legendary warriors of the mist—cursed by the gods—can be summoned only when a champion is needed and the cause is just. Gideon, their captain, knows this to be the one path that will lead his men to redemption—lest they face an eternity of damnation.
Years have passed since anyone has journeyed to the river's edge, but times are desperate. Oppressed by a cruel guardian whose dark magic threatens to destroy her people, the beautiful and courageous Merewen calls upon the bespelled warriors. In Gideon she finds more than a champion, and in his arms, more than protection. However, their enemies are fighting with a power darker than anything than they imagined, and should Gideon fail, she will lose everything she holds dear—including her heart.
316 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2012
30 people are currently reading
2204 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Morgan
97 books999 followersAlexis Morgan grew up near St. Louis and received a B.A. in English from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She and her husband have made the Pacific Northwest their home for more than thirty years, where she launched her career as a writer. She is published in paranormal romance, fantasy romance, American West historicals, and most recently, contemporary romances with her new Snowberry Creek series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
June 18, 2012
Sometimes, fantasy books are ones that I hate to love. It can be tiring learning all the rules of a new world. How does the magic work? Who are the characters? What makes this world unique from all the others? So when that really special fantasy romance comes along, I grab on with two hands and quickly become Fan Girl. And the special ones are those that don't tire you out learning about things before you get into the story. My Lady Mage by Alexis Morgan is one of the special ones!
Merewen is a young woman living in Agathia. She is the sole inheritor of the family talent that allows them to prosper. The horses that live in their land are special and Merewen is able to communicate with them. But Merewen's uncle, Fagan, is jealous that he did not get the talent and so could not rightfully inherit the land and keep the horses to himself. He needs Merewen and he resents her. He is cruel, but more than that, he is slowly becoming more and more evil.
For the full review, please go to http://thewindowseat13.blogspot.com/2...
Merewen is a young woman living in Agathia. She is the sole inheritor of the family talent that allows them to prosper. The horses that live in their land are special and Merewen is able to communicate with them. But Merewen's uncle, Fagan, is jealous that he did not get the talent and so could not rightfully inherit the land and keep the horses to himself. He needs Merewen and he resents her. He is cruel, but more than that, he is slowly becoming more and more evil.
For the full review, please go to http://thewindowseat13.blogspot.com/2...
October 29, 2012
2 - 2.5 rating...
Honestly, I suppose this was an okay read, well that's what two stars stands for, but for me, it never really clicked. Maybe it was because I was expecting something along the lines of C.L. Wilson's Tairen Soul, and was really psyched to read it.
However throughout the story (except for a brief period towards the end) I was thinking to myself, "when will this end?"
For one, the world seemed to be thinly developed, in terms of, for this type of book, I was expecting it to be high-fantasy. There's magic in here (no that alone doesn't make a high-fanatsy but bear with me), with these ancient warriors, who have been curse by the gods (by the way we know next to nothing about these gods) and they can be summoned in times of danger. There's an evil person practicing dark magic. But we never get the feeling of it. That's my problem right there, for something that's classified as fantasy-romance, I have never seen the world. It's just oh, "let me mention about magic here and there, and never explain anything, or show it in motion." Yes, Merewen uses magic, but we never get the sense/feel of it. Heck we don't know what it is really. But then again, that can be something the author plans on explaining later.
Which brings me to Merewen herself, much like the story, I didn't get any sense of personality itself and I felt that she was made out to be this perfect being. Oh everyone loves her, oh she does things that warms my heart, oh...she is so brave. Okay, fine, say that she is all those things, show it. Don't make her do something minor and then turn it into a big whoop-ti-do-da. It's like the author is telling us this character is so great, but I am yet to see great feats from her.
Gideon is another blah character, but at least we're not being bombarded the wonders of his everything.
In fact the more interesting characters in this book seemed to be the side characters and (more than anything else) the animals.
The writing, as I said before, seemed to be more of a telling than showing nature...or at least that's how it felt to me. And everything else was probably average...I'm probably in the minority here though, seeing as this has an average 4.01.
I didn't hate it though (aside from merewen's character..and it's more dislike than hate) so I won't rate it a one star.
Will I be checking out the other books? maybe, I still want to know what's going on (I'm a glutton for punishment), but I won't be breaking my neck to get a copy.
This review and more can be found at musingsandbooksandmore.blogspot.com
Honestly, I suppose this was an okay read, well that's what two stars stands for, but for me, it never really clicked. Maybe it was because I was expecting something along the lines of C.L. Wilson's Tairen Soul, and was really psyched to read it.
However throughout the story (except for a brief period towards the end) I was thinking to myself, "when will this end?"
For one, the world seemed to be thinly developed, in terms of, for this type of book, I was expecting it to be high-fantasy. There's magic in here (no that alone doesn't make a high-fanatsy but bear with me), with these ancient warriors, who have been curse by the gods (by the way we know next to nothing about these gods) and they can be summoned in times of danger. There's an evil person practicing dark magic. But we never get the feeling of it. That's my problem right there, for something that's classified as fantasy-romance, I have never seen the world. It's just oh, "let me mention about magic here and there, and never explain anything, or show it in motion." Yes, Merewen uses magic, but we never get the sense/feel of it. Heck we don't know what it is really. But then again, that can be something the author plans on explaining later.
Which brings me to Merewen herself, much like the story, I didn't get any sense of personality itself and I felt that she was made out to be this perfect being. Oh everyone loves her, oh she does things that warms my heart, oh...she is so brave. Okay, fine, say that she is all those things, show it. Don't make her do something minor and then turn it into a big whoop-ti-do-da. It's like the author is telling us this character is so great, but I am yet to see great feats from her.
Gideon is another blah character, but at least we're not being bombarded the wonders of his everything.
In fact the more interesting characters in this book seemed to be the side characters and (more than anything else) the animals.
The writing, as I said before, seemed to be more of a telling than showing nature...or at least that's how it felt to me. And everything else was probably average...I'm probably in the minority here though, seeing as this has an average 4.01.
I didn't hate it though (aside from merewen's character..and it's more dislike than hate) so I won't rate it a one star.
Will I be checking out the other books? maybe, I still want to know what's going on (I'm a glutton for punishment), but I won't be breaking my neck to get a copy.
This review and more can be found at musingsandbooksandmore.blogspot.com
July 20, 2021
I've had this book for many years and always put off reading it for something else. This was mainly due to the fact that it had such mixed reviews on Goodreads. I finally decided that I needed to just go ahead and read it.
In the beginning I was pulled into the story very quickly and I liked the characters and the overall plot a lot. However this is a fantasy-romance, and those can be really hit or miss with me. If the book happens to swerve into the romance novel lane too much then it usually doesn't work out so well for me. What I mean by that is, there are fantasy-romances that are fantasy that is romantic. Amy Harmon's fantasy stories come to mind here. Then there are fantasy-romances that are fantasy stories written to support a romance. Some of which feel like they are constructed solely to prop up love making scenes. This one felt more like the latter, which is a shame because the fantasy elements of this story were very compelling and I loved the idea behind the river warriors.
This could have been a really good fantasy series had the focus been more on that aspect of the book and less on romance novel stuff. Unfortunately instalove and too much description in the sex scenes kind of ruined this book for me, although I still enjoyed the fantasy elements enough to give it 3 stars. I've decided not to continue on with the series.
In the beginning I was pulled into the story very quickly and I liked the characters and the overall plot a lot. However this is a fantasy-romance, and those can be really hit or miss with me. If the book happens to swerve into the romance novel lane too much then it usually doesn't work out so well for me. What I mean by that is, there are fantasy-romances that are fantasy that is romantic. Amy Harmon's fantasy stories come to mind here. Then there are fantasy-romances that are fantasy stories written to support a romance. Some of which feel like they are constructed solely to prop up love making scenes. This one felt more like the latter, which is a shame because the fantasy elements of this story were very compelling and I loved the idea behind the river warriors.
This could have been a really good fantasy series had the focus been more on that aspect of the book and less on romance novel stuff. Unfortunately instalove and too much description in the sex scenes kind of ruined this book for me, although I still enjoyed the fantasy elements enough to give it 3 stars. I've decided not to continue on with the series.
July 10, 2012
Full Review to be posted soon:
2 and half stars.
Really wanted to like it but I couldn't warm up to the romance or the main heroine who I found to be pretty bland and a bit of a Mary Sue. I actually preferred the sub-story with Aline who I felt was a much more interesting character. It also felt a bit like a PNR with the whole band of brothers thing and I think I might be a burned out on that trope. Overall, it was ok and I liked how the avatars and the magic linked with the horses played out. But it didn't really stand out and I don't think I will be following the series although I did enjoy Alexis Morgan's PNR one.
2 and half stars.
Really wanted to like it but I couldn't warm up to the romance or the main heroine who I found to be pretty bland and a bit of a Mary Sue. I actually preferred the sub-story with Aline who I felt was a much more interesting character. It also felt a bit like a PNR with the whole band of brothers thing and I think I might be a burned out on that trope. Overall, it was ok and I liked how the avatars and the magic linked with the horses played out. But it didn't really stand out and I don't think I will be following the series although I did enjoy Alexis Morgan's PNR one.
May 16, 2018
5 years
This one has all the tropes: powerful warriors, evil bad guys, wife-beating, magic, pretty horses and virgins.
Wait, I forgot: pretty horses that know what you're saying AND come to the Mary Sue by magic. *nods*
Also to be found is a Mary Sue who bored me shittless. I read the whole thing, though...what good it did me. This one is gonna go, too.
YAAAY for knocking it off the TBR!!
This one has all the tropes: powerful warriors, evil bad guys, wife-beating, magic, pretty horses and virgins.
Wait, I forgot: pretty horses that know what you're saying AND come to the Mary Sue by magic. *nods*
Also to be found is a Mary Sue who bored me shittless. I read the whole thing, though...what good it did me. This one is gonna go, too.
YAAAY for knocking it off the TBR!!
June 20, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: A unique and fun fantasy read set in a magical world.
Opening Sentence: Merewen tripped over a twisted knot of tree root jutting up in the narrow game trail and pitched headfirst to the ground.
The Review:
My Lady Mage is the first fantasy romance that I had read in quite some time. While there were some ups and downs, this book really didn’t disappoint. Merewen is in trouble. Her uncle is slowly destroying her dead father’s town with his suppressive rule. As a female, Merewen cannot take over unless she is married and her evil uncle forbids her from any relationships. The only action she sees is resurrecting the Warriors of the Mist from the waters that they sleep in. (She read about them in her father’s library and isn’t entirely sure it will work but she is that desperate.)
Gideon and his group of warriors awaken to this woman wanting their help. At first, they don’t know if she is good or evil, just that the gods summoned them to help her. They follow the will of the gods but they don’t trust magic and they sense magic flowing from Merewen. Gideon is ready to protect her from the very beginning while the rest of the group is a little wary of her but it doesn’t take long for them to hear her tragic story and to know her kindness.
The Warriors of the Mist just want to be released from their immortal duties to the gods. They really hope to one day be able to have a family and grow old. They are only able to help Merewen for about three months before they are sent back to the water, so they have to take action quickly to help her and her village. Merewen has a type of magic that isn’t evil but it isn’t entirely helpful either. Her magic is what has helped her village prosper but as the last in a line of “caretakers” she has to remain alive to pass on her heritage.
Merewen is truly a good lady at heart. She holds no ill towards anyone except her evil uncle and the second hand man that obviously wants to beat and rape her. She just wants the best for her village and wants her people to live in happiness not fear. She does make a few rash decisions that are kind of head-slapping annoying that make you think: why did she do that? why didn’t she tell anyone? Gideon is a man on a mission. He wants to break the curse and he knows he has to help Merewen but what he never expected was to fall in love with her. He is great in battle decisions, strong and quite baffled with Merewen when she doesn’t listen to him.
Magic and mystery are what binds this fantasy novel into an interesting romance. The romance is slow to build but once they both feel an attraction the novel heats up. Gideon and Merewen know they don’t have much time left together but they are going to spend it happily. They know they will be left broken-hearted but they see it as a chance to pass on Merewen’s gift to another generation. The magic is a little different but I loved how each of the warriors had an animal to call.
My Lady Mage is told in the third person and it does jump around to many of the different characters including Merewen’s horrible uncle, Fagan. There is a feeling of helplessness in this novel because even though Merewen has called upon help, it is unclear as to how she will be able to escape this mess alive.
The Warriors of the Mists’ story is not over and there is an open ending to My Lady Mage. Merewen’s uncle is just the beginning. There is an even greater evil threat and there are many mysteries left unanswered that may have you wishing you had the next book, Her Knight’s Quest, nearby.
Notable Scene:
“Lady Merewen, it’s young Edric. He was inside the stable, helping with the horses. Too much smoke, I’m guessing, because he’s . . .he’s not—“
It was hard to say whether the man ran out of breath or whether he couldn’t bring himself to say the rest. He staggered toward her, the limp body of the young boy in his arms. Merewen immediately straightened up, her own struggles to draw a full breath obviously forgotten. She met the stable hand halfway.
“Lay him down,” she ordered as she knelt on the ground beside the too-still body.
Everyone else stopped what they were doing, their faces painted with soot and stark grief.
“Edric, stay with us,” Merewen pleaded as she looked around. “I need a knife.”
Gideon immediately offered his. She used the blade to split the fabric of the boy’s shirt. After setting the knife aside, she laid her hands on Edric’s thin body and started chanting. The words tripped off her tongue in a rough whisper, her throat obviously still fighting the effects of breathing in so much smoke herself.
He recognized the flow of her magic, although this time desperation swirled in and around the chant. The longer it went on, the less likely her gift would work this time. He moved closer, wanting to help but not sure how. Finally, he simply dropped to one knee beside her, unsure what to do. If the boy didn’t respond soon, Gideon would have to drag Merewen away before she burned herself out completely.
“My lady,” he started to say, but she shook her head and kept chanting, her voice growing fainter.
He risked a hand on her shoulder. The connection between them surged hot as his own life force lent its strength to hers. Immediately, her words grew stronger, ringing out clearly in the night air. Her efforts were rewarded when Edric’s chest moved like a bellows as he drew a gasp of air.
FTC Advisory: I purchased my own copy of My Lady Mage. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A unique and fun fantasy read set in a magical world.
Opening Sentence: Merewen tripped over a twisted knot of tree root jutting up in the narrow game trail and pitched headfirst to the ground.
The Review:
My Lady Mage is the first fantasy romance that I had read in quite some time. While there were some ups and downs, this book really didn’t disappoint. Merewen is in trouble. Her uncle is slowly destroying her dead father’s town with his suppressive rule. As a female, Merewen cannot take over unless she is married and her evil uncle forbids her from any relationships. The only action she sees is resurrecting the Warriors of the Mist from the waters that they sleep in. (She read about them in her father’s library and isn’t entirely sure it will work but she is that desperate.)
Gideon and his group of warriors awaken to this woman wanting their help. At first, they don’t know if she is good or evil, just that the gods summoned them to help her. They follow the will of the gods but they don’t trust magic and they sense magic flowing from Merewen. Gideon is ready to protect her from the very beginning while the rest of the group is a little wary of her but it doesn’t take long for them to hear her tragic story and to know her kindness.
The Warriors of the Mist just want to be released from their immortal duties to the gods. They really hope to one day be able to have a family and grow old. They are only able to help Merewen for about three months before they are sent back to the water, so they have to take action quickly to help her and her village. Merewen has a type of magic that isn’t evil but it isn’t entirely helpful either. Her magic is what has helped her village prosper but as the last in a line of “caretakers” she has to remain alive to pass on her heritage.
Merewen is truly a good lady at heart. She holds no ill towards anyone except her evil uncle and the second hand man that obviously wants to beat and rape her. She just wants the best for her village and wants her people to live in happiness not fear. She does make a few rash decisions that are kind of head-slapping annoying that make you think: why did she do that? why didn’t she tell anyone? Gideon is a man on a mission. He wants to break the curse and he knows he has to help Merewen but what he never expected was to fall in love with her. He is great in battle decisions, strong and quite baffled with Merewen when she doesn’t listen to him.
Magic and mystery are what binds this fantasy novel into an interesting romance. The romance is slow to build but once they both feel an attraction the novel heats up. Gideon and Merewen know they don’t have much time left together but they are going to spend it happily. They know they will be left broken-hearted but they see it as a chance to pass on Merewen’s gift to another generation. The magic is a little different but I loved how each of the warriors had an animal to call.
My Lady Mage is told in the third person and it does jump around to many of the different characters including Merewen’s horrible uncle, Fagan. There is a feeling of helplessness in this novel because even though Merewen has called upon help, it is unclear as to how she will be able to escape this mess alive.
The Warriors of the Mists’ story is not over and there is an open ending to My Lady Mage. Merewen’s uncle is just the beginning. There is an even greater evil threat and there are many mysteries left unanswered that may have you wishing you had the next book, Her Knight’s Quest, nearby.
Notable Scene:
“Lady Merewen, it’s young Edric. He was inside the stable, helping with the horses. Too much smoke, I’m guessing, because he’s . . .he’s not—“
It was hard to say whether the man ran out of breath or whether he couldn’t bring himself to say the rest. He staggered toward her, the limp body of the young boy in his arms. Merewen immediately straightened up, her own struggles to draw a full breath obviously forgotten. She met the stable hand halfway.
“Lay him down,” she ordered as she knelt on the ground beside the too-still body.
Everyone else stopped what they were doing, their faces painted with soot and stark grief.
“Edric, stay with us,” Merewen pleaded as she looked around. “I need a knife.”
Gideon immediately offered his. She used the blade to split the fabric of the boy’s shirt. After setting the knife aside, she laid her hands on Edric’s thin body and started chanting. The words tripped off her tongue in a rough whisper, her throat obviously still fighting the effects of breathing in so much smoke herself.
He recognized the flow of her magic, although this time desperation swirled in and around the chant. The longer it went on, the less likely her gift would work this time. He moved closer, wanting to help but not sure how. Finally, he simply dropped to one knee beside her, unsure what to do. If the boy didn’t respond soon, Gideon would have to drag Merewen away before she burned herself out completely.
“My lady,” he started to say, but she shook her head and kept chanting, her voice growing fainter.
He risked a hand on her shoulder. The connection between them surged hot as his own life force lent its strength to hers. Immediately, her words grew stronger, ringing out clearly in the night air. Her efforts were rewarded when Edric’s chest moved like a bellows as he drew a gasp of air.
FTC Advisory: I purchased my own copy of My Lady Mage. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Read
May 12, 2017Dnf at 22%!
April 30, 2018
I liked it
but i didn't love it
but i didn't love it
August 6, 2012
Seventy-two pages in and my fantasy heart is pumping in happiness. Why? Because My Lady Mage reads exactly like a high fantasy book, the likes of Jennifer Roberson and/or David Eddings fantasy.
Which makes my fantasy heart so damn happy; especially since it's hard to find good or decent fantasy read. Dnd/Forgotten Realms worthy fantasy. Well to me...
So I am getting enmeshed in the tale. Curious about The Warriors of the Damned. How they got damned, How they got put into the water. Curious about each member of the group.
Eeeeh! Man how I loved this story! Gideon tells the story about how he and his four companions became the Damned. The Goddess of the River did reveal herself briefly. Gives it that DnD feel which I absolutely love!
And the way Morgan ended it, not all is resolved but the part with Merewen is. There is more going on than anyone thought. Okay but I seriously want KANE's book! Out of all the Damned he's the one I like the most. Glad we got to meet his avatar!
June 30, 2012
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and am extremely happy that I did.
I have never read Alexis Morgan before, but I am willing to purchase all of her books after reading this one. The writing was excellent and the story was well developed and told. Even though this type of story is done all the time, I feel as though the author did a good job of making it seem new and fresh. The characters were well developed and I found myself wanting to know more about each of the warriors back stories (which means I will definitely purchase the other books in the series when they are published). Even the cliff hanger ending didn't bother me because it was done perfectly and there was really no other way to end this excellent story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy with a touch of a romantic happy ending.
I have never read Alexis Morgan before, but I am willing to purchase all of her books after reading this one. The writing was excellent and the story was well developed and told. Even though this type of story is done all the time, I feel as though the author did a good job of making it seem new and fresh. The characters were well developed and I found myself wanting to know more about each of the warriors back stories (which means I will definitely purchase the other books in the series when they are published). Even the cliff hanger ending didn't bother me because it was done perfectly and there was really no other way to end this excellent story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy with a touch of a romantic happy ending.
September 6, 2014
love it love it love it
July 25, 2012
After thinking back on this book and realizing that I liked the supporting characters more then the hero/heroine I realized that I was looking forward to the next book just to find out about them...
Joint Review with my fellow Book Pushers originally posted at: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/07/25/...
Publisher: Berkley
Where did you get the book: Publisher
Release date: Out now
A cursed destiny. A band of warriors. And one troubled kingdom.
It is whispered in Agathia that the legendary warriors of the mist—cursed by the gods—can be summoned only when a champion is needed and the cause is just. Gideon, their captain, knows this to be the one path that will lead his men to redemption—lest they face an eternity of damnation.
Years have passed since anyone has journeyed to the river’s edge, but times are desperate. Oppressed by a cruel guardian whose dark magic threatens to destroy her people, the beautiful and courageous Merewen calls upon the bespelled warriors. In Gideon she finds more than a champion, and in his arms, more than protection. However, their enemies are fighting with a power darker than anything than they imagined, and should Gideon fail, she will lose everything she holds dear—including her heart
*blurb taken from Goodreads*
Lou: When we received this request for review, E, Has and I all jumped at the chance. The premise sounded so intriguing with a fantasy vibe with a band of warriors rising from a lake to take up arms from whoever calls them and if the Gods desire them to. Unfortunately, the actual execution of My Lady Mage leaves much to be desired with hardly any world building, weak characters, and no exciting plot to drive the story through. The heroine Merewen ends up being one of those heroines that I can’t stand. One that is perfect, has no flaws, and is universally loved by those around her.
E: Like Lou I was really excited about reading this and ended up feeling let down. The world had a very interesting premise with this group of fearsome warriors who are stuck in limbo in a river waiting to be called upon to fight. They are serving their punishment for displeasing the Gods and really don’t have much hope left that they will ever see an end to their punishment. I liked the heroine in the beginning but then she was absolutely perfect! I ended up liking her uncle’s wife, Aline, a lot more because she showed character growth. I will admit that I also liked the other warriors better then the hero. They exhibited more personality which is a shame because they had less page time.
Has: I totally agree with you about being really disappointed about the premise of the book. I definitely agree that the heroine, who I found to be pretty bland and boring, was also too perfect, and I was much more drawn to the side character of Aline because she dealt with more darker issues that added to her personality. Whilst I like the idea of the use of magic such as the Avatar shields of the warrior brothers and even Merewen’s power over the horses, it didn’t add much to the world-building which I felt was very weak and bland. In a lot of ways this felt like a PNR disguised as a fantasy and I think this is why I was so let down by the story.
Lou: I don’t know if I would even call it Paranormal. It was just magical, but of the weakest kind. There wasn’t any history of where the magic came from, or how the magic is used and where it’s called upon. I also found the setting to be non-existent. All I know is that it took place in a forest and a big Keep and that’s it. Merewen had no personality to her. In essence, she felt like a Mary Sue character that everyone loved bar the baddies. Even animals loved her and Aline and I thought that was just a little too overbearing in the niceness factor. I also didn’t understand or feel the attraction between Gideon and Merewen. Why was he drawn to her because at first sight of summoning these warriors, Merewen faints in front of them. Oh my eyes rolled so hard at this. A heroine who faints because the warriors she summoned actually appear. And then she doesn’t listen to what they say?!
E: I can completely understand the fear of the dreaded infodump especially in the first book of a series but the pendulum can swing too far in the opposite direction. In this case I think that it did because I am extremely puzzled about what else is out there. Apparently there is an Abbey that should feature prominently in book two I think, three days away is where the real bad guy resides and um that is about it. I also wondered about the attraction that Gideon had from the first moment with Merewen. She certainly had several TSTL moments. I know if I risked my life to get some fearsome warriors to fight for my people I would certainly do what they said because they are the experts. Especially after they explained that if something happened to her they would lose their opportunity. I did really like the shields and avatars and I wished I knew more about them.
Has: Yes, it was all too vague and nothing was really detailed to establish the series. It also didn’t help with the Mary Sue heroine and Gideon was a bit too bland too. I totally agree that their romance was very lackluster and there wasn’t much of a connection between them. I have to admit that it was a bit of a chore to finish the book because everything from the characters to the world-building just felt one big cliche and nothing really stood out for me. I also felt there was no real danger threatening the characters and the villianish Uncle was a bit of a mustache twirling two dimensional bad guy. And because of this, the plot didn’t live up to the premise.
Lou: I agree that everything felt that it had been done many times before, but on a much weaker scale. The only character that intrigued me was Kane with his strange avatar beast, but not enough to pick up another book in this series. Nothing happened in this book that excited me or made me want to carry on reading this series. One aspect that annoyed me was that the big manly men had to rescue and make everything OK for the delicate and precious heroines. Give me a heroine who owns her own life and determines her own HEA anytime over a heroine who is oh so delicate and needs the warrior men to make everything OK. All in all I was very disappointed with My Lady Mage and I won’t be picking up any other book in the series. I give it a D+
E: While I liked the other warriors and Aline I have to agree that the lack of connection between the hero and heroine along with her combination of perfectness yet TSTL moments really annoyed me. I loved the premise of the book but think the execution fell short. I know that the first book in a series can be somewhat rough because a lot has to be done in it so I will give the benefit of the doubt and read review on book two before I decide to give this series another go or not. Growing up a fantasy reader I need my characters and world-building to have complexity especially if it is going to be an epic. Both were too simplistic and choppy to give me that satisfaction. I give My Lady Mage a C-/D+
Has: I feel exactly the same way. Aline, Kane and the Avatar shields were the highlight for me but they were not enough to draw me into the next book because the setting was so weak and I am disappointed because I did enjoy Alexis Morgan’s PNR series but I was very much underwhelmed by the story and most especially with the Mary Sue heroine and bland romance. I also give My Lady Mage D+
Joint Review with my fellow Book Pushers originally posted at: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/07/25/...
Publisher: Berkley
Where did you get the book: Publisher
Release date: Out now
A cursed destiny. A band of warriors. And one troubled kingdom.
It is whispered in Agathia that the legendary warriors of the mist—cursed by the gods—can be summoned only when a champion is needed and the cause is just. Gideon, their captain, knows this to be the one path that will lead his men to redemption—lest they face an eternity of damnation.
Years have passed since anyone has journeyed to the river’s edge, but times are desperate. Oppressed by a cruel guardian whose dark magic threatens to destroy her people, the beautiful and courageous Merewen calls upon the bespelled warriors. In Gideon she finds more than a champion, and in his arms, more than protection. However, their enemies are fighting with a power darker than anything than they imagined, and should Gideon fail, she will lose everything she holds dear—including her heart
*blurb taken from Goodreads*
Lou: When we received this request for review, E, Has and I all jumped at the chance. The premise sounded so intriguing with a fantasy vibe with a band of warriors rising from a lake to take up arms from whoever calls them and if the Gods desire them to. Unfortunately, the actual execution of My Lady Mage leaves much to be desired with hardly any world building, weak characters, and no exciting plot to drive the story through. The heroine Merewen ends up being one of those heroines that I can’t stand. One that is perfect, has no flaws, and is universally loved by those around her.
E: Like Lou I was really excited about reading this and ended up feeling let down. The world had a very interesting premise with this group of fearsome warriors who are stuck in limbo in a river waiting to be called upon to fight. They are serving their punishment for displeasing the Gods and really don’t have much hope left that they will ever see an end to their punishment. I liked the heroine in the beginning but then she was absolutely perfect! I ended up liking her uncle’s wife, Aline, a lot more because she showed character growth. I will admit that I also liked the other warriors better then the hero. They exhibited more personality which is a shame because they had less page time.
Has: I totally agree with you about being really disappointed about the premise of the book. I definitely agree that the heroine, who I found to be pretty bland and boring, was also too perfect, and I was much more drawn to the side character of Aline because she dealt with more darker issues that added to her personality. Whilst I like the idea of the use of magic such as the Avatar shields of the warrior brothers and even Merewen’s power over the horses, it didn’t add much to the world-building which I felt was very weak and bland. In a lot of ways this felt like a PNR disguised as a fantasy and I think this is why I was so let down by the story.
Lou: I don’t know if I would even call it Paranormal. It was just magical, but of the weakest kind. There wasn’t any history of where the magic came from, or how the magic is used and where it’s called upon. I also found the setting to be non-existent. All I know is that it took place in a forest and a big Keep and that’s it. Merewen had no personality to her. In essence, she felt like a Mary Sue character that everyone loved bar the baddies. Even animals loved her and Aline and I thought that was just a little too overbearing in the niceness factor. I also didn’t understand or feel the attraction between Gideon and Merewen. Why was he drawn to her because at first sight of summoning these warriors, Merewen faints in front of them. Oh my eyes rolled so hard at this. A heroine who faints because the warriors she summoned actually appear. And then she doesn’t listen to what they say?!
E: I can completely understand the fear of the dreaded infodump especially in the first book of a series but the pendulum can swing too far in the opposite direction. In this case I think that it did because I am extremely puzzled about what else is out there. Apparently there is an Abbey that should feature prominently in book two I think, three days away is where the real bad guy resides and um that is about it. I also wondered about the attraction that Gideon had from the first moment with Merewen. She certainly had several TSTL moments. I know if I risked my life to get some fearsome warriors to fight for my people I would certainly do what they said because they are the experts. Especially after they explained that if something happened to her they would lose their opportunity. I did really like the shields and avatars and I wished I knew more about them.
Has: Yes, it was all too vague and nothing was really detailed to establish the series. It also didn’t help with the Mary Sue heroine and Gideon was a bit too bland too. I totally agree that their romance was very lackluster and there wasn’t much of a connection between them. I have to admit that it was a bit of a chore to finish the book because everything from the characters to the world-building just felt one big cliche and nothing really stood out for me. I also felt there was no real danger threatening the characters and the villianish Uncle was a bit of a mustache twirling two dimensional bad guy. And because of this, the plot didn’t live up to the premise.
Lou: I agree that everything felt that it had been done many times before, but on a much weaker scale. The only character that intrigued me was Kane with his strange avatar beast, but not enough to pick up another book in this series. Nothing happened in this book that excited me or made me want to carry on reading this series. One aspect that annoyed me was that the big manly men had to rescue and make everything OK for the delicate and precious heroines. Give me a heroine who owns her own life and determines her own HEA anytime over a heroine who is oh so delicate and needs the warrior men to make everything OK. All in all I was very disappointed with My Lady Mage and I won’t be picking up any other book in the series. I give it a D+
E: While I liked the other warriors and Aline I have to agree that the lack of connection between the hero and heroine along with her combination of perfectness yet TSTL moments really annoyed me. I loved the premise of the book but think the execution fell short. I know that the first book in a series can be somewhat rough because a lot has to be done in it so I will give the benefit of the doubt and read review on book two before I decide to give this series another go or not. Growing up a fantasy reader I need my characters and world-building to have complexity especially if it is going to be an epic. Both were too simplistic and choppy to give me that satisfaction. I give My Lady Mage a C-/D+
Has: I feel exactly the same way. Aline, Kane and the Avatar shields were the highlight for me but they were not enough to draw me into the next book because the setting was so weak and I am disappointed because I did enjoy Alexis Morgan’s PNR series but I was very much underwhelmed by the story and most especially with the Mary Sue heroine and bland romance. I also give My Lady Mage D+
July 11, 2023
I liked this one but felt it was missing something. Turns out these are not standalones and I'm willing to give the next one a shot.
July 1, 2013
My Lady Mage by Alexis Morgan is the first installment in the Warriors of the Mist series. The book is as breath-taking and as intriguing as its cover.
Not being a fan of romance, My Lady Mage is my first fantasy-romance novel. Still, I deal with romance with care for there are often clichés – just read the synopsis of many fantasy books and you’ll notice a pattern – but here, I enjoyed it. And that means Alexis Morgan did something spectacular, for I’m not easy to please.
The novel opens with a sort of introduction titled “River of the Damned” describing the Warriors of the Mist. It begins thus: “The Warriors of the Mist are a legend, their origins lost in the shadows of the past. In dark times, it is whispered, the warriors can be summoned from beneath the roiling currents when a champion is needed and if the cause is just.”
My Lady Mage revolves around Merewen, whose father ruled their Kingdom in the land of Agathia, but because the law forbids a woman from ruling after her father’s death, Merewen’s uncle, Fagan, takes over. Not only has evil roamed the land ever since, but it also grows stronger with each passing day. The first part in the Warriors of the Mist series focuses mainly on Merewen, the warriors, her uncle and his wife and we get a peek at the Duke.
Merewen goes to the river and prays to the gods. Her summons is answered and five warriors spring from the water.
I personally enjoyed how Morgan drew on other well-known texts in literature. For instance, “Then, an arm brandishing a sword burst forth from the deepest part of the river” (p. 5). This reminds me of the popular scene in the stories – films and series - of King Arthur, when the Lady of the Lake raises her arm, holding Excalibur. There are many such examples throughout the novel.
There are five warriors, led by Gideon and as the story progresses we learn that each of them has a painful past. We also learn how each of them came to join Gideon and become the Damned.
Each of these warriors is memorable and loveable on their own. I tried very hard to pick a favourite but couldn’t do so entirely; even Kane, who appears to be – and is in fact – brutal and blood-thirsty, cannot be hated or disliked.
Merewen is a hard-headed, rebellious woman. Not only is she brave, but she is also very caring and considerate. She, literally, puts everyone before herself and is willing to risk her life for the people who respected her father and herself and who have remained loyal to both.
Towards the end, we meet the Duke, who rules over all the lands of Agathia. There is a reversal of roles in the scene in chapter 22, where Fagan, who constantly terrorises and abuses his wife, cowers before the Duke and is terrified of him. It is an interesting, dead-cold scene.
I am not a fan of profanity and there were some instances in this novel where I felt there was no need for it. On p. 91, “Meanwhile, Kane continued polishing the damned horse’s hide.” Personally, I don’t see a reason for the word “damned” here, especially since what precedes it does not carry any angry tones or the like.
Also, the use of the (‘d) as a contraction for had (most of the time) is very annoying as the reader has to, often, think whether it is ‘had’ or ‘would’. Moreover, it is the only contraction in the text. For me, there should either be contractions throughout or none throughout as well (speech excluded). It also looks out of place. Without this (‘d) – and a couple of needless uses of ‘damned’ – the book would have been utterly perfect!
The first part in the Warriors of the Mist series is by all means a grabber, a must-read. The moment you finish it you feel like you need the second part right after it to carry on the adventure. The characters are memorable, each in their own way. The book contains some adult scenes so I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone under 18 (I suppose that could differ with American and European audiences).
Alexis Morgan’s choice is words and imagery is notable throughout the novel. She wittingly uses tension and comic relief well in her novel, which, I must say, is a blessing.
For the full (extended) review: please go here: http://nadanessinmotion.blogspot.com/...
August 7, 2012
What a great concept for a story. Loved it and read it pretty much on a Sunday afternoon and evening. It is the first of a series, and I so look forward to the next one. I think I am not going to tell much of the story in this review but rather explain the concept and introduce the characters.
The Warriors of the Mist are part of an ancient legend. It is said that in very dark times they can be summoned from the River of the Dammed where they sleep in the cold beneath the current. The cause has to be just or the gods will not allow them to come forth. The risk is great because if the Champion wins the battle he again faces the judgment of the gods. If he is found valiant he may join the knights of the past in the great hall for all eternity. If not, he will again return to the river, perhaps for centuries until he is called again by a just cause. If he fails he is condemned the neverworld to wander forever as will the person who called him also be condemned. They have to win or lose this battle in three months as that is all the time they are allowed.
Merewin lives in the keep of her uncle since her father died. The succession of the keep is passed down the male line to the ones who inherit the ability to speak to the horses. The horses of the keep are the best to be bred anywhere and the prize of the holding. Merewin's father was the holder but died with no son to inherit. Merewin has the ability to communicate with the horses but a woman can not inherit. Her uncle is cruel, resents that his brother was the one to inherit the ability with the horses and only allows her to live because without her the horses would run to the mountains to be lost forever. The uncle is a terrible man who mistreats his wife and everyone around him.
Merewin finds the story in an ancient book of the warriors damned to the river and goes to the river and chants the words it would take to call them forth. Thus she attempts to save her people from the evil that seems to extend beyond even her uncle's cruelty.
The part of this story when the five warriors walk from the black water of the river and up to the shore would make a great movie scene. Great descriptive writing! Their leader is their Captain, Gideon, and as the story progresses it becomes known that it was Gideon who when dying centuries before was condemned by the Gods to the river for failing his duty. His four companions and friends went voluntarily to share his fate. Their personalities and individual stories are wonderful and each is definitely one of a kind. There are many really interesting twists to this story and the legend that make this book unique among the fantasy I have read. Each warrior has a shield with an avatar on it - a cougar, an owl and three others including the mighty warrior Kane's gargoyle, Hob. They have the magic power to release the avatar from it's picture on the shield into real life, and these magical creatures have great power in battle.
This is the story of the threat reaching across the entire countryside and the task of these five warriors to protect the girl who called them and to free the land of whatever the evil turns out to be. It's a fast paced story of romance and action. It is not YA, there is some explicit sex although I would not consider it smutty. It does not end on a cliff hanger although the three months is definitely not over and it is obviously there is more danger to come. Great character development and very well written.
The Warriors of the Mist are part of an ancient legend. It is said that in very dark times they can be summoned from the River of the Dammed where they sleep in the cold beneath the current. The cause has to be just or the gods will not allow them to come forth. The risk is great because if the Champion wins the battle he again faces the judgment of the gods. If he is found valiant he may join the knights of the past in the great hall for all eternity. If not, he will again return to the river, perhaps for centuries until he is called again by a just cause. If he fails he is condemned the neverworld to wander forever as will the person who called him also be condemned. They have to win or lose this battle in three months as that is all the time they are allowed.
Merewin lives in the keep of her uncle since her father died. The succession of the keep is passed down the male line to the ones who inherit the ability to speak to the horses. The horses of the keep are the best to be bred anywhere and the prize of the holding. Merewin's father was the holder but died with no son to inherit. Merewin has the ability to communicate with the horses but a woman can not inherit. Her uncle is cruel, resents that his brother was the one to inherit the ability with the horses and only allows her to live because without her the horses would run to the mountains to be lost forever. The uncle is a terrible man who mistreats his wife and everyone around him.
Merewin finds the story in an ancient book of the warriors damned to the river and goes to the river and chants the words it would take to call them forth. Thus she attempts to save her people from the evil that seems to extend beyond even her uncle's cruelty.
The part of this story when the five warriors walk from the black water of the river and up to the shore would make a great movie scene. Great descriptive writing! Their leader is their Captain, Gideon, and as the story progresses it becomes known that it was Gideon who when dying centuries before was condemned by the Gods to the river for failing his duty. His four companions and friends went voluntarily to share his fate. Their personalities and individual stories are wonderful and each is definitely one of a kind. There are many really interesting twists to this story and the legend that make this book unique among the fantasy I have read. Each warrior has a shield with an avatar on it - a cougar, an owl and three others including the mighty warrior Kane's gargoyle, Hob. They have the magic power to release the avatar from it's picture on the shield into real life, and these magical creatures have great power in battle.
This is the story of the threat reaching across the entire countryside and the task of these five warriors to protect the girl who called them and to free the land of whatever the evil turns out to be. It's a fast paced story of romance and action. It is not YA, there is some explicit sex although I would not consider it smutty. It does not end on a cliff hanger although the three months is definitely not over and it is obviously there is more danger to come. Great character development and very well written.
July 7, 2012
My Lady Mage is the first book in a new adventure for Alexis.. It is a fantasy romance.. so far there are three books in this series and I am not sure if it will end there or if it continues but I will say. If she follows the plot from this first book it will have a definite ending. This will not be a series that never ends.. think CL Wilson's Fading Land/Tairen Soul series.. or Karen Marie Moning's Fever series.. both had a battle to be won then the story ended. If they continue on from there it will be a new story.. and yes this belongs in my world building posts not this review.
Lady Merewin was determined to save her people. They have fallen under the fist of her evil, greedy uncle who has let envy destroy him. In her desperation she has found an ancient text that claims if the words are said correctly, in the correct place at the correct time and if the gods feel that her request has merit then they will send help. Merewin risks all to get to the correct place to even make her plea. Not sure if she even stands a chance, not even sure if she will survive the night or the "punishment" she will receive if discovered. And yet she must try.
Standing above the river, staring into the darkest spot.. on a moonlight night.. Merewin offers her request.. into the mist.. At first she is sure this will not work. That she is being foolish, that seriously how likely is this? But she believes in possibilities and even if the gods are not willing to offer their help they did allow her a hope. and so she thanks them for their time.. in that moment slowly from the depths of the darkest water, an sword appears and then the arm and body attached.. and then another and another until five men stand before her. Ready to serve.
Gideon, Kane, Duncan, Murdoch and Averil.. each with his own gift.. each damned for eternity to serve the gods. Together they have not failed and yet with each new task they dream that this one will be the one that saves their souls.. That redeems them. Gideon bears the burden of being their leader, being the friend that the others chose to stand beside.. when they offered their souls for redemption. He dreams not just of his redemption but also for the redemption of his men. A burden that could destroy a lesser man.
The Damned have been called many times over the centuries.. they did their jobs and then moved on. This time there was something more. A pull, a connection.. with not just Merewen but with her people. A willingness to fight not because it is what they were called to do but because it is the right thing to do.
Gideon and Merewen find themselves lost knowing that they have maybe three months before Gideon is recalled they struggle with the bond that has connected them. Should they give in to their desire or should they remain aloof? Should they consider this a gift from the gods or another torment of the damned?
Ms Morgan tells a wonderful story both the fantasy and the fallen. The only thing wrong with it is the fact that the next book doesn't come out until Spring of 2013. But don't let that stop you from enjoying a truly delightful story.
Shauni
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Lady Merewin was determined to save her people. They have fallen under the fist of her evil, greedy uncle who has let envy destroy him. In her desperation she has found an ancient text that claims if the words are said correctly, in the correct place at the correct time and if the gods feel that her request has merit then they will send help. Merewin risks all to get to the correct place to even make her plea. Not sure if she even stands a chance, not even sure if she will survive the night or the "punishment" she will receive if discovered. And yet she must try.
Standing above the river, staring into the darkest spot.. on a moonlight night.. Merewin offers her request.. into the mist.. At first she is sure this will not work. That she is being foolish, that seriously how likely is this? But she believes in possibilities and even if the gods are not willing to offer their help they did allow her a hope. and so she thanks them for their time.. in that moment slowly from the depths of the darkest water, an sword appears and then the arm and body attached.. and then another and another until five men stand before her. Ready to serve.
Gideon, Kane, Duncan, Murdoch and Averil.. each with his own gift.. each damned for eternity to serve the gods. Together they have not failed and yet with each new task they dream that this one will be the one that saves their souls.. That redeems them. Gideon bears the burden of being their leader, being the friend that the others chose to stand beside.. when they offered their souls for redemption. He dreams not just of his redemption but also for the redemption of his men. A burden that could destroy a lesser man.
The Damned have been called many times over the centuries.. they did their jobs and then moved on. This time there was something more. A pull, a connection.. with not just Merewen but with her people. A willingness to fight not because it is what they were called to do but because it is the right thing to do.
Gideon and Merewen find themselves lost knowing that they have maybe three months before Gideon is recalled they struggle with the bond that has connected them. Should they give in to their desire or should they remain aloof? Should they consider this a gift from the gods or another torment of the damned?
Ms Morgan tells a wonderful story both the fantasy and the fallen. The only thing wrong with it is the fact that the next book doesn't come out until Spring of 2013. But don't let that stop you from enjoying a truly delightful story.
Shauni
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
July 9, 2012
The Warriors of the River are five men who have been banished to sleep beneath the river, who can be summoned when a champion is needed. And Merewen is in dire need of a champion. Finding an old text in her late father’s library, she learns of these men, and goes out to the river late one night to see if the magic will work. After chanting some words, five men rise from the river, and Merewen knows she no longer has to battle alone. After her father’s passing. Merewen went under the guardianship of her Uncle Fagan, a cruel and vicious man, not only to her but to all her tenants. Merewen has a magical connection to horses, able to call them to her at will and soothe them. Fagan won’t let Merewen leave him, knowing she would take her gift of horses with her, and he is greedy and likes to abuse her power.
These five men are led by their captain Gideon. Each warrior has an avatar, or an animal that he can call at will. Gideon has a gyrfalcon that lives within his shield and can come out to assist Gideon when needed. For the next three months, these five warriors will be available to her to fight her battles. If the warriors can prove themselves and balance the scales with the gods, they will be able to move onto to a more peaceful resting place, rather than the cold dark river. Gideon and his men soon learn they are not only going to have to fight Merewen’s uncle but also a much darker force that is lurking on her land.
My Lady’s Mage is the first book in a new series by Alexis Morgan. I really like the premise of this book. The five men that rise to champion for Merewen all have great personalities. Gideon is the leader, the more serious and stoic of the bunch. He not only takes Merewen’s safety very seriously, but also the safety of his men. They have a very strong camaraderie between them that I very much enjoyed. One man in particular, Kane, is so very tortured and dark. His depressed and angry nature really intrigued me and added a lot to this story. I can’t wait for him to get a book.
Merewen’s uncle Fagan is a very evil villain. He is slimy, and cruel and the author does a nice job making you hate him. We get a lot of page time with him, which I think is often lacking in other books and I’m glad a lot of focus is put on him. I also enjoyed Merewen’s interactions with him. She guards her people closely, always willing to take the blame, if that means others will be safe. She is a really strong female, yet also realizes she can’t fight this battle alone.
While there is nice action as an easy pace at the beginning, this story does slow down quite a bit in the middle. It got a little stale for me, as scenes seemed to be drawn out. I also think the romance in this one is a little weak. Much of this story is focused on Merewen’s struggle with her uncle and getting to know the five warriors. There is not a lot of emphasis on the developing romance. There is a HEA, but I didn’t feel a ton of chemistry between Gideon and Merewen, which is unfortunate. I think they needed more page time together.
With all that being said, I like this world and I’ve very interested to learn more about these warriors. They still have battles to fight and I’m interested to see how it all ends up.
Rating: C+
These five men are led by their captain Gideon. Each warrior has an avatar, or an animal that he can call at will. Gideon has a gyrfalcon that lives within his shield and can come out to assist Gideon when needed. For the next three months, these five warriors will be available to her to fight her battles. If the warriors can prove themselves and balance the scales with the gods, they will be able to move onto to a more peaceful resting place, rather than the cold dark river. Gideon and his men soon learn they are not only going to have to fight Merewen’s uncle but also a much darker force that is lurking on her land.
My Lady’s Mage is the first book in a new series by Alexis Morgan. I really like the premise of this book. The five men that rise to champion for Merewen all have great personalities. Gideon is the leader, the more serious and stoic of the bunch. He not only takes Merewen’s safety very seriously, but also the safety of his men. They have a very strong camaraderie between them that I very much enjoyed. One man in particular, Kane, is so very tortured and dark. His depressed and angry nature really intrigued me and added a lot to this story. I can’t wait for him to get a book.
Merewen’s uncle Fagan is a very evil villain. He is slimy, and cruel and the author does a nice job making you hate him. We get a lot of page time with him, which I think is often lacking in other books and I’m glad a lot of focus is put on him. I also enjoyed Merewen’s interactions with him. She guards her people closely, always willing to take the blame, if that means others will be safe. She is a really strong female, yet also realizes she can’t fight this battle alone.
While there is nice action as an easy pace at the beginning, this story does slow down quite a bit in the middle. It got a little stale for me, as scenes seemed to be drawn out. I also think the romance in this one is a little weak. Much of this story is focused on Merewen’s struggle with her uncle and getting to know the five warriors. There is not a lot of emphasis on the developing romance. There is a HEA, but I didn’t feel a ton of chemistry between Gideon and Merewen, which is unfortunate. I think they needed more page time together.
With all that being said, I like this world and I’ve very interested to learn more about these warriors. They still have battles to fight and I’m interested to see how it all ends up.
Rating: C+
February 7, 2017
I really hate giving low reviews, but I cannot give any more than two stars for a book I could not finish.
The book had good potential in the beginning; it started strong and captured my attention. As the book progressed, I was thinking to myself how immature the book read but I kept reading, hoping it would pick up pace and show me how worthy of a book it was. Obviously, it failed.
I enjoy these types of books with a girl’s fantasy playing before my eyes. Some macho man coming from some existence with his band of ‘brothers’, who all happen to love the female lead, and shower her with attention. The female lead being an independent, yet abused individual, who hopes for nothing but goodness and justice for all. A female lead who is delicate yet, oh so strong, mentally of course (we just cannot have some buff female lead ridding off into the sunset on her own horse).
This book had all of that, but it did not focus on any of the actual plot. That being, the evil that started the whole fiasco. The first half of the book reads like a 13-year-old plucking flower petals “he loves me, he loves me not, he loves me….”. I could not even make it to where, I assume, the book picks up pace and starts fighting evil. I mean, random stuff kept happening with no logic behind it!
Let us discuss this illogical set of random happenings, and how confusing this book was for me. I mean, one minute someone was sitting inside a house and the next minute he was running across a field and hopping on a horse! This scenario happened on more than one occasion; things would be explained one way and suddenly it was another. One minute they are strong macho men sent by a god with hardcore healing powers, and the next they get their arm almost chopped off by a human, and the wound has to be stitched… So much for the Gods sending men who can actually accomplish anything.
I honestly do feel sad for writing a negative review, but this book was just that bad for me. I truly hope younger readers find this book acceptable and enjoy the read, as I do feel every book should be appreciated.
The book had good potential in the beginning; it started strong and captured my attention. As the book progressed, I was thinking to myself how immature the book read but I kept reading, hoping it would pick up pace and show me how worthy of a book it was. Obviously, it failed.
I enjoy these types of books with a girl’s fantasy playing before my eyes. Some macho man coming from some existence with his band of ‘brothers’, who all happen to love the female lead, and shower her with attention. The female lead being an independent, yet abused individual, who hopes for nothing but goodness and justice for all. A female lead who is delicate yet, oh so strong, mentally of course (we just cannot have some buff female lead ridding off into the sunset on her own horse).
This book had all of that, but it did not focus on any of the actual plot. That being, the evil that started the whole fiasco. The first half of the book reads like a 13-year-old plucking flower petals “he loves me, he loves me not, he loves me….”. I could not even make it to where, I assume, the book picks up pace and starts fighting evil. I mean, random stuff kept happening with no logic behind it!
Let us discuss this illogical set of random happenings, and how confusing this book was for me. I mean, one minute someone was sitting inside a house and the next minute he was running across a field and hopping on a horse! This scenario happened on more than one occasion; things would be explained one way and suddenly it was another. One minute they are strong macho men sent by a god with hardcore healing powers, and the next they get their arm almost chopped off by a human, and the wound has to be stitched… So much for the Gods sending men who can actually accomplish anything.
I honestly do feel sad for writing a negative review, but this book was just that bad for me. I truly hope younger readers find this book acceptable and enjoy the read, as I do feel every book should be appreciated.
May 25, 2013
Reviewed by: Jen
Book provided by: contest win at Romance Junkies
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I admit, I have a weakness for medieval romance. And when this book landed in my hands, I was intrigued. I mean, the blurb says that our heroine is going to call forth warriors from the river to be her champion. That in itself hooked me.
So we have Merewen, a woman who is well, your typical headstrong romance heroine, but she’s not what you’d picture as the typical medieval lady. She stands up to her uncle, breaks the rules, goes and summons these cursed men to help her… and so on. Most of the time I enjoyed watching Merewen as she fought tooth and nail for what she wanted. Every once in a while, I would get frustrated with her (as did her hero, Gideon), but then things would right themselves and we’d move onward in our tale.
Gideon on the other hand is the captain of the five cursed warriors who are called forth by Merewen. He’s a bit jaded after centuries of damnation. But he’s intrigued about why the gods would grant Merewen her wish for a champion… and attracted to the lass as well. Gideon’s yo-yoing feelings were completely understandable, especially since he didn’t want to fall in love just to return to the river when their task is done.
The concept of the damned warriors rising to be champions is interesting, and one that I hadn’t really read before. I liked the twist that was provided with the men’s companions… each one was unique to the warrior, rather a animal reflection of their personality. The book is just the first step in what appears to be an overarcing plot with an evil wizard wrecking ruin on the land… and of course, these warriors are the ones who will stop him.
This is a solid debut to the series. I enjoyed the non-romance parts of the book more, since there is so much world building. The action scenes were vivid and I almost felt as if I was standing in the middle of the battles. The characters were plentiful and diverse. The bad guys were deviously bad, and the good guys… well, they sure weren’t saints but I was rooting them on anyway. I am definitely looking forward to future books in this story as I just have to know what happens next.
Book provided by: contest win at Romance Junkies
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I admit, I have a weakness for medieval romance. And when this book landed in my hands, I was intrigued. I mean, the blurb says that our heroine is going to call forth warriors from the river to be her champion. That in itself hooked me.
So we have Merewen, a woman who is well, your typical headstrong romance heroine, but she’s not what you’d picture as the typical medieval lady. She stands up to her uncle, breaks the rules, goes and summons these cursed men to help her… and so on. Most of the time I enjoyed watching Merewen as she fought tooth and nail for what she wanted. Every once in a while, I would get frustrated with her (as did her hero, Gideon), but then things would right themselves and we’d move onward in our tale.
Gideon on the other hand is the captain of the five cursed warriors who are called forth by Merewen. He’s a bit jaded after centuries of damnation. But he’s intrigued about why the gods would grant Merewen her wish for a champion… and attracted to the lass as well. Gideon’s yo-yoing feelings were completely understandable, especially since he didn’t want to fall in love just to return to the river when their task is done.
The concept of the damned warriors rising to be champions is interesting, and one that I hadn’t really read before. I liked the twist that was provided with the men’s companions… each one was unique to the warrior, rather a animal reflection of their personality. The book is just the first step in what appears to be an overarcing plot with an evil wizard wrecking ruin on the land… and of course, these warriors are the ones who will stop him.
This is a solid debut to the series. I enjoyed the non-romance parts of the book more, since there is so much world building. The action scenes were vivid and I almost felt as if I was standing in the middle of the battles. The characters were plentiful and diverse. The bad guys were deviously bad, and the good guys… well, they sure weren’t saints but I was rooting them on anyway. I am definitely looking forward to future books in this story as I just have to know what happens next.
April 29, 2012
I was lucky enough to get a preview copy of this book. Most know Alexis Morgan from her Paladin series and though I love the Paladins - I must say the Warriors of the Mist rank right up there with them. I love these cursed warriors. But though he's not the hero of this book I must say that Kane is my favorite. If you've read the Paladins - Kane reminds me of Blake Trahearn of the Paladin series. He also reminds me of Zarek from Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark Hunters and Zsadist from J.R. Wards Black Dagger Brotherhood.
The dram for the series is wonderful - Warriors who fight for a just cause called forth to battle an evil - even the one who called them is not aware of. The Lady Mage is definitely a park your butt and read in one sitting book. So many different plot lines going on but so well managed that you are never left feeling they take over the romance. Definitely a book that I would recommend you run - not walk - to the bookstore to get when it comes out in July.
The dram for the series is wonderful - Warriors who fight for a just cause called forth to battle an evil - even the one who called them is not aware of. The Lady Mage is definitely a park your butt and read in one sitting book. So many different plot lines going on but so well managed that you are never left feeling they take over the romance. Definitely a book that I would recommend you run - not walk - to the bookstore to get when it comes out in July.
December 22, 2017
An enjoyable and light read. Merewen is a young woman who suffers under the unjust and cruel rule of her uncle. She inherited her gift with horses from her father, but because women cannot inherit the lands went to her cruel uncle. To free her people from his tyrannical rule calls the warriors of the mist to fight for her cause. These five warriors fight for Merewen to free her people and to fight the growing darkness.
Merewen is a good person who takes her responsibilities serious. As the rightful owner of the keep she fights to protect her people from her tyrannical uncle. Captain Gideon is the leader of the warriors of the mist and seeks redemption from the mistakes he made.
The book is well written; the characters have depth and personalities, the plot is simple but still exciting and the romance is both believable and sweet.
Merewen is a good person who takes her responsibilities serious. As the rightful owner of the keep she fights to protect her people from her tyrannical uncle. Captain Gideon is the leader of the warriors of the mist and seeks redemption from the mistakes he made.
The book is well written; the characters have depth and personalities, the plot is simple but still exciting and the romance is both believable and sweet.
August 12, 2012
Wow. I won this book in a giveaway on Goodreads and was NOT disappointed! I absolutely loved it and I can't wait to rush out to buy the next one in a whole year): Now it was difficult in the beginning for me to read and I trudge my way through the first chapter or two but I think it was because the reading for me was more challenging then anything else. I love it though. Going on my favorites shelf!<3.
October 14, 2012
I wasn't sure that I was really going to like this one much but I found myself riveted to the story. Merewen is a strong female character who is quite selfless and caring of her people, horses, and the Warriors. The Warriors start out very remote but find themselves caring about Merewen and others of her people. Part of the story is predictable and I think I can see the direction this series is taking, but I still am anxious to read the next book in the series. Sadly I'll have to wait at least five or six months til it comes out!
January 5, 2013
A generic romance that I read out of desperation while between books, and while the he'in and she'in was fairly muted (held off until around page 220 or so which was surprising to me), there was little to no in-depth details about the Mage themselves, no references to indigenous cultures, magic, religion, spirit animals, etc, that would have lifted this above the formulaic romantic genre.
April 3, 2013
The entire book, I felt like I was in some kind of horrible, nerdy Dungeons and Dragons Role Play... I rolled a 7 and narrowly blocked your spell, though I hit you with a counter spell, rendering you paralyzed, causing you to miss your next roll. I truly struggled to keep reading, and I do not want to read the next.
January 3, 2019
Remarkably simple fantasy romance with knights, horses, animal companions, disgusting villains, and mleh ending
I couldn't stop thinking that this book held striking resemblance to something I would write when I was about 13-15 y.o. It ticked all those points - a heroine with magic power related to horses, a handsome knight on a black horse, an instant romance with the aforementioned knight, a group of overly protective and honorable warriors with animal companions, etc.
Unfortunately though, the villains in this book were a bit too villain-y and disgusting in the beginning, and then were thrown away in a mangled and abrupt ending in a rather disappointing way. For an ending like this, I really don't see a point for building up the resentment towards them as much as it was built up.
Another point would be that the heroine could do with a bit more brains (as usual). I literally couldn't stand the way she behaved and acted in last few chapters.
I think, that even for a silly fairy tale (with sex) for girls this book had some promise, until about 70% in, when it suddenly flew off the hinges and the plot was washed down the toilet.
I couldn't stop thinking that this book held striking resemblance to something I would write when I was about 13-15 y.o. It ticked all those points - a heroine with magic power related to horses, a handsome knight on a black horse, an instant romance with the aforementioned knight, a group of overly protective and honorable warriors with animal companions, etc.
Unfortunately though, the villains in this book were a bit too villain-y and disgusting in the beginning, and then were thrown away in a mangled and abrupt ending in a rather disappointing way. For an ending like this, I really don't see a point for building up the resentment towards them as much as it was built up.
Another point would be that the heroine could do with a bit more brains (as usual). I literally couldn't stand the way she behaved and acted in last few chapters.
I think, that even for a silly fairy tale (with sex) for girls this book had some promise, until about 70% in, when it suddenly flew off the hinges and the plot was washed down the toilet.
February 4, 2019
This book started with five hardened warriors staring down their summoner, a self-sacrificing, noblewoman who ... fainted. I knew then that this book probably wasn't for me, and indeed I skimmed the rest and my eyes got quite a workout from all their rolling. The heroine, whose name already eludes me, is annoyingly saintly. Her only motivation is to help others, and yet she's so singularly selfless that it's unbelievable. She'll take beatings for people, do stupid things to help people bathe, use her mysterious power to aid the warriors she was terrified of not a moment before. More than that, I just don't understand why she couldn't have solved this problem by just marshalling the soldiers loyal to her. Why call a total of five surly yet doting-on-the-women warriors from the mysterious river? If she just turned her charm to leading instead of relying on mystery warriors (ONLY FIVE), she could have led a rebellion as the rightful heir with HUNDREDS of soldiers, servants, and more. This story just wasn't for me.
April 26, 2019
2.5 stars
The secondary characters kept me interested enough to finish the book. I'll read the remainder of the series (since I'm invested now) with hope that the other books will be better.
I found myself drifting often while reading this book, usually thinking about how elementary some of the dialogue was or about anything but the book. Between rereading pages and boredom, it took me forever to finish (however in book terms to me forever is 3 days).
The writing seemed almost childish, the story had so much potential to be better but it read more YA/kids book with a couple of awkward love scenes.
The secondary characters kept me interested enough to finish the book. I'll read the remainder of the series (since I'm invested now) with hope that the other books will be better.
I found myself drifting often while reading this book, usually thinking about how elementary some of the dialogue was or about anything but the book. Between rereading pages and boredom, it took me forever to finish (however in book terms to me forever is 3 days).
The writing seemed almost childish, the story had so much potential to be better but it read more YA/kids book with a couple of awkward love scenes.
December 17, 2019
Interesante historia, con personajes muy intrigantes la verdad.
Este primer libro me ha parecido bastante diferente a otros que leído, pues es una mezcla de histórica y paranormal, con personajes realmente antagónicos y malvados que a mi parecer tuvieron un final bastante rápido y misericordioso, la única pega es que para poder saber qué cosas sucederán la autora te obliga a leer el siguiente libro y asumo que el siguiente hasta que se resuelva todo, pero ya veremos si estoy equivocada o no.
Mi calificación 3.5 ESTRELLAS
Este primer libro me ha parecido bastante diferente a otros que leído, pues es una mezcla de histórica y paranormal, con personajes realmente antagónicos y malvados que a mi parecer tuvieron un final bastante rápido y misericordioso, la única pega es que para poder saber qué cosas sucederán la autora te obliga a leer el siguiente libro y asumo que el siguiente hasta que se resuelva todo, pero ya veremos si estoy equivocada o no.
Mi calificación 3.5 ESTRELLAS
May 15, 2017
So so so good there isn't anything that isn't brilliant about this book it's grown up, adventure,alpha men , magic and really really good dialogue between the characters, all the damed and the rest of the castle where great I can only give this book 6 perfect stars yep iam going to read the rest but after reading this we all want to read about Kane and hob lol x
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