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Valkyrie Bestiary #7
Devils Don't Lie
Being a working mom chosen to save the world is going to take practice, courage, and a whole crew of creature companions as backup.
The forest whispers to Kyra. Something is coming. The creatures are restless. Ash falls on their homestead. And Montreal ward is bursting with refugees.
But Kyra doesn’t need omens. She has a direct line to Terra, the god who put humankind in their place once before and won’t hesitate to do it again. Unless Kyra finds and destroys a deadly weapon. A weapon that will bring the end of everything. A weapon that is now in the hands of Montreal’s oldest enemy, the vampires.
Kyra and Mason have fought vampires before, but with Mason’s demonic magic threatening to push him over the edge, this time, the risk might be too high.
Can Kyra appease an angry god, face off against the vampires and protect her growing family?
The forest whispers to Kyra. Something is coming. The creatures are restless. Ash falls on their homestead. And Montreal ward is bursting with refugees.
But Kyra doesn’t need omens. She has a direct line to Terra, the god who put humankind in their place once before and won’t hesitate to do it again. Unless Kyra finds and destroys a deadly weapon. A weapon that will bring the end of everything. A weapon that is now in the hands of Montreal’s oldest enemy, the vampires.
Kyra and Mason have fought vampires before, but with Mason’s demonic magic threatening to push him over the edge, this time, the risk might be too high.
Can Kyra appease an angry god, face off against the vampires and protect her growing family?
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2023
195 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
Kim McDougall
45 books351 followersIf Kim McDougall could have one magical superpower, it would be to talk to animals. Or maybe to shift into animal form. Definitely, fantastical critters and magic often feature in her stories. So until she can change into a Griffin and fly away, she writes dark paranormal action and romance tales. Kim is also passionate about fiber art, photography, children’s literacy, rescue animals, nature, and genre-bending fiction. She also writes for children under pen name Kim Chatel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 15, 2024
Definitely not my favorite. Aside from ending on a cliffhanger, this was too dark a story for me to get fully into. I tend to like my HEAs, and this one.... was just said I will keep reading because I'd like to know what happens with the cliff hanger, but I'm left with a serious feeling of let down after finishing this one.
June 25, 2023
I hate cliffhangers
I have been reading this series right up to thus book. This one ends in a cliffhanger. I think I'm done. Kyra gets a little more stupid in every book. And she is weak. I was hoping she would get stronger and not so righteous. I was wrong. I'm am no longer entertained.
I have been reading this series right up to thus book. This one ends in a cliffhanger. I think I'm done. Kyra gets a little more stupid in every book. And she is weak. I was hoping she would get stronger and not so righteous. I was wrong. I'm am no longer entertained.
November 18, 2023
4½ stars
The Valkyrie Bestiary series just keeps getting better with every book! This one picks up awhile after the events of the previous book, as Kyra & Mason's daughter Holly is now a toddler. The opji— vampires— come back into play as the primary villains for the first time since (I believe) book one. They were the first bad guys we saw Kyra & crew face, & though they've been kinda a background menace for most of the series, in Devils Don't Lie the dam finally breaks & they make their move on the Montreal ward.
By this point (7th book in the series), the pages of each additional book are populated with a variety of familiar favorite faces. This book was no different, & the Guardians are present, as well as Gita the Banshee & godling Gabe with his opji-raised-by-fae boyfriend Emil. While I enjoy just about all of the characters in the VB series, it is always the critters that truly steal the show. Jacoby & Grim feature heavily in this particular story, but while Kyra does come into stewardship of a young pegasus, the story is relatively light on new creatures this time around.
As a big fan of the creatures, if you'd told me beforehand that they weren't as integral to this particular book, I'd have been disappointed. But, I would have been pleasantly surprised, because what this book lacks in creature features, it makes up for with a thicker plot than usual. Kyra & Mason have a lot going on in this book. Fellow fans will recall that Mason was made Prime Minister of the Montreal ward, so he is busy with his political duties. Meanwhile, Kyra is enjoying a blissful life on their crowded homestead, surrounded by the people & creatures she loves.
Of course no self respecting author would leave her characters in such a comfortable situation! When opji attack a nearby homestead, their peace is shattered as Kyra & Mason try to determine what has gotten the opji so bold. Cue a visit from the earth goddess, Terra, who basically assigns Kyra a quest to deal with a new weapon in the vamp's possession. Add in the additional concern of Mason's unpredictable demon magic, & you have the basics of Devils Don't Lie.
I really enjoyed this book although I didn't really get the name, as no devils actually told Kyra anything in this book, lie or otherwise. But that's no biggie. One other observation is that this book does end on a cliffhanger, which is actually not typical for this series. The author usually leaves us some crumbs from which we may divine what is coming in the next installment, but this one ended with a major character in a compromised position & frankly, I am going to be checking like every single day to see when book 8 will be coming! I've gotta know what's next!
I definitely recommend this book if you're a fan of the series. As I stated at the beginning, I feel like it's been improving with each additional installment. This book was particularly good in my opinion, with just a lot of interesting plotting that has me excited. If you haven't started the series, you absolutely should if you like urban fantasy or dystopian societies, as VB is a pretty interesting blend of both, with a light helping of romance besides. And of course the creatures!!
The Valkyrie Bestiary series just keeps getting better with every book! This one picks up awhile after the events of the previous book, as Kyra & Mason's daughter Holly is now a toddler. The opji— vampires— come back into play as the primary villains for the first time since (I believe) book one. They were the first bad guys we saw Kyra & crew face, & though they've been kinda a background menace for most of the series, in Devils Don't Lie the dam finally breaks & they make their move on the Montreal ward.
By this point (7th book in the series), the pages of each additional book are populated with a variety of familiar favorite faces. This book was no different, & the Guardians are present, as well as Gita the Banshee & godling Gabe with his opji-raised-by-fae boyfriend Emil. While I enjoy just about all of the characters in the VB series, it is always the critters that truly steal the show. Jacoby & Grim feature heavily in this particular story, but while Kyra does come into stewardship of a young pegasus, the story is relatively light on new creatures this time around.
As a big fan of the creatures, if you'd told me beforehand that they weren't as integral to this particular book, I'd have been disappointed. But, I would have been pleasantly surprised, because what this book lacks in creature features, it makes up for with a thicker plot than usual. Kyra & Mason have a lot going on in this book. Fellow fans will recall that Mason was made Prime Minister of the Montreal ward, so he is busy with his political duties. Meanwhile, Kyra is enjoying a blissful life on their crowded homestead, surrounded by the people & creatures she loves.
Of course no self respecting author would leave her characters in such a comfortable situation! When opji attack a nearby homestead, their peace is shattered as Kyra & Mason try to determine what has gotten the opji so bold. Cue a visit from the earth goddess, Terra, who basically assigns Kyra a quest to deal with a new weapon in the vamp's possession. Add in the additional concern of Mason's unpredictable demon magic, & you have the basics of Devils Don't Lie.
I really enjoyed this book although I didn't really get the name, as no devils actually told Kyra anything in this book, lie or otherwise. But that's no biggie. One other observation is that this book does end on a cliffhanger, which is actually not typical for this series. The author usually leaves us some crumbs from which we may divine what is coming in the next installment, but this one ended with a major character in a compromised position & frankly, I am going to be checking like every single day to see when book 8 will be coming! I've gotta know what's next!
I definitely recommend this book if you're a fan of the series. As I stated at the beginning, I feel like it's been improving with each additional installment. This book was particularly good in my opinion, with just a lot of interesting plotting that has me excited. If you haven't started the series, you absolutely should if you like urban fantasy or dystopian societies, as VB is a pretty interesting blend of both, with a light helping of romance besides. And of course the creatures!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2024
Audiobook Full of Critters & Heartbreak
Gleeful Goblin Review: Another absolute smash in this deeply touching urban fantasy series. I've only become more enamored of the series with each new addition to the world and seeing Kyra mature emotionally. This book feels like one of the peaks that she's finally summited, having gone through so much change, loss, and processing of trauma. At the start of the book her home life, while a bit chaotic because it couldn't be anything else, is as stable and healthy as it's ever been. She has a home, a partner, a family, and a community of close friends and coworkers. In the early chapter you can see Kyra trying to be in the moment and enjoy when things are good, but like so many of us with trauma baggage we lug around.... it's hard to trust that life CAN go smoothly and sometimes we are so used to chaos that we self sabotage simply because it's what's familiar. We see hints of that behavior starting to pop up when Kyra is trying to convince herself that everything with Mason is fine but before she goes to far down that path there is external chaos that comes to bear for her. Seeing the differences in how Kyra problem solves and works through that chaos though is starkly different in this book than prior books in the series in a totally positive way. Kyra tries to keep her kids in her charge safe, appropriately, but is also willing to accept help from friends which is huge growth for her.
This book also brought my favorite critter to date in the peyochip. I can't even fault Kyra because I would have 100% forgotten a poison spur as well if faced with something that adorable! Speaking of critters, the introduction of Gallivant the Pegasus made me squeal in joy and laughter because as a former horse girl I knew EXACTLY how this scene plays out when you have a young silly baby who spooks at E V E R Y T H I N G. The author Kim has an absolute gift for writing equine personalities, from Raven to Gallivant, and I adore it.
A theme that stood out to me in this book is the building of trust, in oneself and in the people you love, to be able to face The Hard Things and know you're not doing it all alone. This book focuses on the family unit dynamics even more than past books and is so beautifully executed it will break your heart. 5/5 Stars
Gleeful Goblin Review: Another absolute smash in this deeply touching urban fantasy series. I've only become more enamored of the series with each new addition to the world and seeing Kyra mature emotionally. This book feels like one of the peaks that she's finally summited, having gone through so much change, loss, and processing of trauma. At the start of the book her home life, while a bit chaotic because it couldn't be anything else, is as stable and healthy as it's ever been. She has a home, a partner, a family, and a community of close friends and coworkers. In the early chapter you can see Kyra trying to be in the moment and enjoy when things are good, but like so many of us with trauma baggage we lug around.... it's hard to trust that life CAN go smoothly and sometimes we are so used to chaos that we self sabotage simply because it's what's familiar. We see hints of that behavior starting to pop up when Kyra is trying to convince herself that everything with Mason is fine but before she goes to far down that path there is external chaos that comes to bear for her. Seeing the differences in how Kyra problem solves and works through that chaos though is starkly different in this book than prior books in the series in a totally positive way. Kyra tries to keep her kids in her charge safe, appropriately, but is also willing to accept help from friends which is huge growth for her.
This book also brought my favorite critter to date in the peyochip. I can't even fault Kyra because I would have 100% forgotten a poison spur as well if faced with something that adorable! Speaking of critters, the introduction of Gallivant the Pegasus made me squeal in joy and laughter because as a former horse girl I knew EXACTLY how this scene plays out when you have a young silly baby who spooks at E V E R Y T H I N G. The author Kim has an absolute gift for writing equine personalities, from Raven to Gallivant, and I adore it.
A theme that stood out to me in this book is the building of trust, in oneself and in the people you love, to be able to face The Hard Things and know you're not doing it all alone. This book focuses on the family unit dynamics even more than past books and is so beautifully executed it will break your heart. 5/5 Stars
April 15, 2024
This is book 7 in the Valkyrie Bestiary series. In this book, after being stung by a peyochip (forgive me if it's spelled wrong, I listen to the books!), Kyra meets Terra in person and is given the task of finding and getting rid of a magical artifact that is in the hands of the vampires. At the same, Gabe is back and asking Kyra to meet the person responsible for bringing the Godlings together. But when Kyra goes to meet this "person", she finds out it is one of the vampires responsible for the Underhill attack. Not only that, but she has the artifact and they try to enthrall Kyra. So Kyra, Mason, Emil and Emeril go to the in-between to scout and see what is going on.
There is a lot that goes on in this book and it's hard to plot summarize everything! Kyra goes through so many emotional moments and situations that it is such a roller-coaster ride for her and the reader! From the elation at having Gabe back in her life, the betrayal she feels after the "meeting" Gabe takes her to, the fear for herself and her family and the terrible heartbreaks that she suffers as well. These books always give me all the feels and this one was definitely no different!
And while part of the storyline was wrapped up there is still so much to get into! Now that shehas the artifact, what will happen to it and how will she set things right for her family? And I am also curious of the knuckle-bones! I am hoping that those come back into play and we find out how to stop those from taking over as well! (Or if they will eventually help her in some way as well!). And I definitely did not see that ending coming and I am hoping that somehow everything can be set as right as it can be! Mason is such a strong character, I can't help but think Kyra will be able to figure out a solution!
There is a lot that goes on in this book and it's hard to plot summarize everything! Kyra goes through so many emotional moments and situations that it is such a roller-coaster ride for her and the reader! From the elation at having Gabe back in her life, the betrayal she feels after the "meeting" Gabe takes her to, the fear for herself and her family and the terrible heartbreaks that she suffers as well. These books always give me all the feels and this one was definitely no different!
And while part of the storyline was wrapped up there is still so much to get into! Now that shehas the artifact, what will happen to it and how will she set things right for her family? And I am also curious of the knuckle-bones! I am hoping that those come back into play and we find out how to stop those from taking over as well! (Or if they will eventually help her in some way as well!). And I definitely did not see that ending coming and I am hoping that somehow everything can be set as right as it can be! Mason is such a strong character, I can't help but think Kyra will be able to figure out a solution!
August 18, 2024
This book should have a warning on it. For real. It’s a tearjerker of the highest order, and for very good reason.
The ease and comfort of finally being home resonates strongly as Kyra and Mason enjoy their newest arrival and the mundane hum of everyday life.
Only, seven books in, I’m wise to the fact that nothing good lasts for long. Back from Asgard, Kyra keeps getting visions - and visits - from another God. This time it’s Terra who tasks her with finding and destroying the shar-lil, something that could end the world.
What follows is an action-packed race to work out what the shar-lil is and how to get it out of an old enemies hands. Unfortunately, the cost of success is the highest it’s ever been and this time, when the book finishes, my heart is more broken than ever.
My favourite part of this book is the underlying peace that Kyra found after the last books adventures in Asgard. It’s a testament to Kim’s writing skill that Kyra’s character is so fundamentally changed and yet she’s the same lovable, dependable, altruistic person she’s always been.
My least favourite part of the book is the cost of the high stakes. It’s not just time or illness, it’s friends and family, and I’m left clinging to the very slim hope that the next book will make everything okay. The cliffhanger had me reading the next book within two minutes of closing this one.
I’m putting the call out, if you’ve read these books, I need your reassurance that I’m gonna survive this story arc. If you haven’t read these books, what are you doing? Please start so we can suffer together!
Thats all the time I have, I need to get back to 🦄Unicorns Don’t Cry 🦄 right now!
The ease and comfort of finally being home resonates strongly as Kyra and Mason enjoy their newest arrival and the mundane hum of everyday life.
Only, seven books in, I’m wise to the fact that nothing good lasts for long. Back from Asgard, Kyra keeps getting visions - and visits - from another God. This time it’s Terra who tasks her with finding and destroying the shar-lil, something that could end the world.
What follows is an action-packed race to work out what the shar-lil is and how to get it out of an old enemies hands. Unfortunately, the cost of success is the highest it’s ever been and this time, when the book finishes, my heart is more broken than ever.
My favourite part of this book is the underlying peace that Kyra found after the last books adventures in Asgard. It’s a testament to Kim’s writing skill that Kyra’s character is so fundamentally changed and yet she’s the same lovable, dependable, altruistic person she’s always been.
My least favourite part of the book is the cost of the high stakes. It’s not just time or illness, it’s friends and family, and I’m left clinging to the very slim hope that the next book will make everything okay. The cliffhanger had me reading the next book within two minutes of closing this one.
I’m putting the call out, if you’ve read these books, I need your reassurance that I’m gonna survive this story arc. If you haven’t read these books, what are you doing? Please start so we can suffer together!
Thats all the time I have, I need to get back to 🦄Unicorns Don’t Cry 🦄 right now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2023
Devils Don’t Lie is the seventh book in the Valkyrie Bestiary series and poor Kyra has a lot going on! There’s unrest her world right now, the creatures of the InBetween are on the move, there are more refugees in the border towns, and the vampires are up to something. Kyra has her hands full with her family, her friends, her business, and Terra has assigned her what appears to be an impossible task. It’s apparently up to Kyra to save the world, but can she do with without losing those she loves the most?
As I stated before, this book has a lot going on. The plight of the refugees and the forest animals make that clear, but it takes time for Kyra to figure out what the vampires’ plan really is. Terra has assigned her an impossible task, and she has no idea how to accomplish it. Kyra and Mason are a great couple, but she’s worried about Mason losing himself to the demon. I liked this book, but it’s almost like it’s The Empire Strikes Back of the series—I don’t really feel great about the state of things at the end of the book. Some of the things that happened were tough, and I’m not sure how it will play out in the next book. The book ends with a great hook for the next book, and I’m very happy that the author’s note indicates we won’t have to wait too long for it, as I really want to know what happens next. I really like Kyra; I love that she collects and protects vulnerable creatures as she does the people she considers her found family. I enjoyed this book and am anxiously awaiting the next one!
As I stated before, this book has a lot going on. The plight of the refugees and the forest animals make that clear, but it takes time for Kyra to figure out what the vampires’ plan really is. Terra has assigned her an impossible task, and she has no idea how to accomplish it. Kyra and Mason are a great couple, but she’s worried about Mason losing himself to the demon. I liked this book, but it’s almost like it’s The Empire Strikes Back of the series—I don’t really feel great about the state of things at the end of the book. Some of the things that happened were tough, and I’m not sure how it will play out in the next book. The book ends with a great hook for the next book, and I’m very happy that the author’s note indicates we won’t have to wait too long for it, as I really want to know what happens next. I really like Kyra; I love that she collects and protects vulnerable creatures as she does the people she considers her found family. I enjoyed this book and am anxiously awaiting the next one!
May 13, 2023
Once again the world of Kyra has captivated me. Once I started reading, I could barely put it down - only work keeping me from finishing it in one go (serves me right for stadtong it with my morning coffee).
Kim McDougall has done another great job of blending the past and the new future that Kyra lives in. I think I could even find that church building she describes off of Levesque Blvd. Living in a place wjere a book takes place isnt something I usually get to experience, and I love it.
This story is a great continuation of what is going on around the Montréal Ward, and touches on updates for mang of the creatures we know and love. Though they may not be the focus of this story - it was great to know that Hunter, Bijoux, the Squimice, and the rest of the critters were doing good and thriving.
Plus there are some new additions that we get to meet (and almost meet), that are sure to bring more interesting twists in the books to come.
Ill admit, the emotions I felt near the end of the book had me blowing my nose. I felt like Geeta must on a regular basis. But it just brought me closer to the characters and much more excited to see what happens next.
Definitely 5 stars, would (will) read again.
Kim McDougall has done another great job of blending the past and the new future that Kyra lives in. I think I could even find that church building she describes off of Levesque Blvd. Living in a place wjere a book takes place isnt something I usually get to experience, and I love it.
This story is a great continuation of what is going on around the Montréal Ward, and touches on updates for mang of the creatures we know and love. Though they may not be the focus of this story - it was great to know that Hunter, Bijoux, the Squimice, and the rest of the critters were doing good and thriving.
Plus there are some new additions that we get to meet (and almost meet), that are sure to bring more interesting twists in the books to come.
Ill admit, the emotions I felt near the end of the book had me blowing my nose. I felt like Geeta must on a regular basis. But it just brought me closer to the characters and much more excited to see what happens next.
Definitely 5 stars, would (will) read again.
May 31, 2023
I had the pleasure of reading an arc copy of Devil’s Don’t Lie I received May 18.
Book Seven of the Valkyrie’s Bestiary by Kim McDougall Devil’s Don’t Lie is an amazing new book in the series with a dramatic and emotional cliff hanger.
I am glad Kim McDougall has indicated book seven is the first book of a three book story arc.
I don’t want to give away key elements to people who have not finished the book yet.
One of the things I enjoyed about the story was Kyra’s opportunity to connect with each member of her growing family in the middle of the dangerous events in this book.
This included beings introduced in book one such as Hunter and Gita, to newer additions like Grim and Click, through to the gift from Terra (the incarnation of the living earth) the Pegasus Gallivant. It was good to see her spend time with her smallest family members to ground herself.
It was an interesting transition in this book for Krya to have a direct conversation with Terra the incarnation of the living earth to set the tone for the urgency of this story. The ending will leave you counting the days to book 8 like I am.
Get a copy the first chance you get.
Book Seven of the Valkyrie’s Bestiary by Kim McDougall Devil’s Don’t Lie is an amazing new book in the series with a dramatic and emotional cliff hanger.
I am glad Kim McDougall has indicated book seven is the first book of a three book story arc.
I don’t want to give away key elements to people who have not finished the book yet.
One of the things I enjoyed about the story was Kyra’s opportunity to connect with each member of her growing family in the middle of the dangerous events in this book.
This included beings introduced in book one such as Hunter and Gita, to newer additions like Grim and Click, through to the gift from Terra (the incarnation of the living earth) the Pegasus Gallivant. It was good to see her spend time with her smallest family members to ground herself.
It was an interesting transition in this book for Krya to have a direct conversation with Terra the incarnation of the living earth to set the tone for the urgency of this story. The ending will leave you counting the days to book 8 like I am.
Get a copy the first chance you get.
July 27, 2024
This is such a great series. I so don't want it to end. Each one gets better & better.
This one was heart wrenching. It starts out with the forest whispering to Kyra. This gives her an ominus feeling that something is coming. Mason is busy with his prime minister duties and Kyra is being a mom & still trying to work. Gabe invites Kyra to meet the new opji leader. He claims that Kyra will like her. Kyra agreea and goes to the meeting. What happens next is a massive betrayel. That is when Kyra realizes that the opji are gathering and they are growing stronger. She shivers and knows they must be stopped. That is when the god visits Kyra and tells her she is the chosen one. She must find a dangerous weapon and destroy it. How do you destroy something that you have no idea of what or where it is? As the battles with the opji become worse, Masons demon is becoming stronger and it's getting harder for Mason to return to himself each time the demon takes over. Kyra shivers at the thought of the demon taking over completely. So many things happen in this one. It's full of deception, terror and battles.
This one was heart wrenching. It starts out with the forest whispering to Kyra. This gives her an ominus feeling that something is coming. Mason is busy with his prime minister duties and Kyra is being a mom & still trying to work. Gabe invites Kyra to meet the new opji leader. He claims that Kyra will like her. Kyra agreea and goes to the meeting. What happens next is a massive betrayel. That is when Kyra realizes that the opji are gathering and they are growing stronger. She shivers and knows they must be stopped. That is when the god visits Kyra and tells her she is the chosen one. She must find a dangerous weapon and destroy it. How do you destroy something that you have no idea of what or where it is? As the battles with the opji become worse, Masons demon is becoming stronger and it's getting harder for Mason to return to himself each time the demon takes over. Kyra shivers at the thought of the demon taking over completely. So many things happen in this one. It's full of deception, terror and battles.
November 28, 2023
As usual, the story line in this book is fantastically written, and Kim's writing sucked me right into the Valkyrie Bestiary world. One of the things I love most about this series is critters, and the surprises they come with, from a peyochip to the Mountain Devil, and even the pegasus. Being a fellow horse girl, I love that little touch. This series narrator is fantastic, and makes consuming my favorite series so much easier, as i don't have time in the day to actually sit down and read a book. I can listen while I work, or am at the barn or driving. Only downside is the books usually end a lot faster that way.
As far as my title goes for this review - OOF. Without revealing spoilers, i will say that the storyline ends where you expect it to - but hope that it doesn't. It's not a surprise, but regardless I felt an overwhelming sense of loss. I'm not sure how Kim is going to carry this on, but im looking forward to finding out in Unicorns don't cry. After I've given myself some time to grieve.
As far as my title goes for this review - OOF. Without revealing spoilers, i will say that the storyline ends where you expect it to - but hope that it doesn't. It's not a surprise, but regardless I felt an overwhelming sense of loss. I'm not sure how Kim is going to carry this on, but im looking forward to finding out in Unicorns don't cry. After I've given myself some time to grieve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2024
Ok, I like this series and its characters.
However;
Main character has a chip on her shoulder the size of a small planet and. Must. Save. Everyone.
The planet. The animals. The humans. The gargoyles. The cats. The government. Montreal. The neighbors. Her husband. Her daughter. Her mother. Her own ass, possibly too?
Steps ensue:
- let's impulsively ride into battle with 2-3 people
- ... who are the people MC loves most in the world
- face hundreds of vampires
- oops
- wail and scream when overpowered
- oh no! Who could have foreseen this turn of events?!
- people die
- things that really must never happen, yet always happen in exactly this scenario happen
- oh no! Who could possibly have foreseen this turn of events!?
- main character is in disbelief
Yeah. I really hope she gets a clue. She's been getting by with waaaaay too much sheer dumb luck.
However;
Main character has a chip on her shoulder the size of a small planet and. Must. Save. Everyone.
The planet. The animals. The humans. The gargoyles. The cats. The government. Montreal. The neighbors. Her husband. Her daughter. Her mother. Her own ass, possibly too?
Steps ensue:
- let's impulsively ride into battle with 2-3 people
- ... who are the people MC loves most in the world
- face hundreds of vampires
- oops
- wail and scream when overpowered
- oh no! Who could have foreseen this turn of events?!
- people die
- things that really must never happen, yet always happen in exactly this scenario happen
- oh no! Who could possibly have foreseen this turn of events!?
- main character is in disbelief
Yeah. I really hope she gets a clue. She's been getting by with waaaaay too much sheer dumb luck.
July 29, 2023
another great adventure with tons of twists
I love this series. It is fast paced, easy to understand, with both simple and complex plot lines so that each installment is a true adventure that leaves you wishing for more. Some authors don’t focus enough on world building in their early books and it feels disjointed or can sometimes be contradictory in later books, which is a huge pet peeve of mine as both a reader and author; this is not one of them. Kim McDougall does a particularly wonderful and thorough job of world building, and she is a delight to read.
Also, props to the editor- I rarely ever find grammatical errors or disjointed sentences in any of the author’s work.
I recommend this latest installment of the series and look forward eagerly to book 8!
I love this series. It is fast paced, easy to understand, with both simple and complex plot lines so that each installment is a true adventure that leaves you wishing for more. Some authors don’t focus enough on world building in their early books and it feels disjointed or can sometimes be contradictory in later books, which is a huge pet peeve of mine as both a reader and author; this is not one of them. Kim McDougall does a particularly wonderful and thorough job of world building, and she is a delight to read.
Also, props to the editor- I rarely ever find grammatical errors or disjointed sentences in any of the author’s work.
I recommend this latest installment of the series and look forward eagerly to book 8!
July 31, 2023
Wow. These get better and better and more and more heart wrenching.
The Opji, (vampires) are set to attack Montreal Ward, and Kyra and her crew are the only ones that know. ON top of that, Terra, the mother goddess, has given her a task. Find and destroy an artifact before it destroys the world.
Guess who has it? You got it the Opji. The tasks just grow more and more impossible for her. Plus, now she's raising a preteen kelpie, and she has a one year old daughter, and a husband slowly succumbing to the demon he's possessed with.
Let's just say that the action doesn't stop, and some gut wrenching things occur. This series is so worth it though! I can't wait for the next one, it can't come out soon enough!
The Opji, (vampires) are set to attack Montreal Ward, and Kyra and her crew are the only ones that know. ON top of that, Terra, the mother goddess, has given her a task. Find and destroy an artifact before it destroys the world.
Guess who has it? You got it the Opji. The tasks just grow more and more impossible for her. Plus, now she's raising a preteen kelpie, and she has a one year old daughter, and a husband slowly succumbing to the demon he's possessed with.
Let's just say that the action doesn't stop, and some gut wrenching things occur. This series is so worth it though! I can't wait for the next one, it can't come out soon enough!
October 25, 2023
Definitely not a good follow up
So I’m kinda torn about this series at this point.
On one hand it’s still kinda fresh and has the ability to reach new heights and explore different facets of this overly large world that Kyra lives in.
Then there’s the other… this story was boring and barely had any resolution to ANYTHING. I felt like my entire time was wasted here.
Also what happened to the diary entries? That’s kinda the foundation of this series. But I think the the stuff that continues to bother me to no end is how random events are mentioned and we’re supposed to just accept it all. No backstory, no explanation, no nothing. It’s just infuriating.
So I’m kinda torn about this series at this point.
On one hand it’s still kinda fresh and has the ability to reach new heights and explore different facets of this overly large world that Kyra lives in.
Then there’s the other… this story was boring and barely had any resolution to ANYTHING. I felt like my entire time was wasted here.
Also what happened to the diary entries? That’s kinda the foundation of this series. But I think the the stuff that continues to bother me to no end is how random events are mentioned and we’re supposed to just accept it all. No backstory, no explanation, no nothing. It’s just infuriating.
January 7, 2024
obsessed
That’s the word I’ll use for this series. Things I’ve gotten really really hard for Kyra. I feel like this is the beginning of something absolutely heartbreaking. Oh don’t get me wrong. There’s a lot of heartbreak in here. There’s been death, but none that have truly been directly related to the main characters. That changes in this book. Kyra has a whole new quest and it comes from an odd source. Kyra also now has children that are hers to care for which makes things even more complicated. It just means that you should hold onto your seat and hope you don’t fall off during this ride!
That’s the word I’ll use for this series. Things I’ve gotten really really hard for Kyra. I feel like this is the beginning of something absolutely heartbreaking. Oh don’t get me wrong. There’s a lot of heartbreak in here. There’s been death, but none that have truly been directly related to the main characters. That changes in this book. Kyra has a whole new quest and it comes from an odd source. Kyra also now has children that are hers to care for which makes things even more complicated. It just means that you should hold onto your seat and hope you don’t fall off during this ride!
May 16, 2023
First of all I probably shouldn't have started the series at book seven. So now I have to go back to the beginning and figure out how Kyra met Mason, and how he ended up with a demon. But all in all I definitely enjoyed the book, and can't wait to go back to the beginning with Dragons don't eat meat. Now I want to read more after number seven. I want to know how Kyra is going to "fix" Mason.
I received a complimentary ARC copy from the author for a fair and honest review.
I received a complimentary ARC copy from the author for a fair and honest review.
May 29, 2023
This is the seventh book in the series and the story keeps going strong! This is NOT a series of stand-alones. You do not want to just jump in here.
Yeah, it is a whirlwind with a lot of tension. And the ending may not be *quite* a cliff-hanger, but there are some very intense stories to continue with. The next book should be a doozie.
If you have not read the series, start the series. There are also some great prequel stories to get from the author's website.
Yeah, it is a whirlwind with a lot of tension. And the ending may not be *quite* a cliff-hanger, but there are some very intense stories to continue with. The next book should be a doozie.
If you have not read the series, start the series. There are also some great prequel stories to get from the author's website.
October 20, 2023
-4-5 stars. debating taking a star off for ending on a massive cliffhanger about Mason and the shar-lil.
i do love this series with all its wonderful beasts and critters.
"i'd enjoyed a few suspensions in my time at middle school, and i never understood why they thought two days away from class was a good punishment. seemed like a holiday to me." (i agree!)
"my style of leadership was less 'delegate' and more 'do it all on my own so no one else gets hurt'."
i do love this series with all its wonderful beasts and critters.
"i'd enjoyed a few suspensions in my time at middle school, and i never understood why they thought two days away from class was a good punishment. seemed like a holiday to me." (i agree!)
"my style of leadership was less 'delegate' and more 'do it all on my own so no one else gets hurt'."
October 10, 2024
My favorite of Kyra’s story so far!!! This was definitely darker than the others. Set a few years post book 6, Kyra’s baby bump is now a toddler and Raven is a teenager.
Kyra finds strange mushrooms and then nothing else happens with them - I’m sure they’ll come up again in the last two books? And Terra sends Kyra on a quest involving vampires. There is darkness and death and it is very sobering but you can’t help but be drawn into it.
Kyra finds strange mushrooms and then nothing else happens with them - I’m sure they’ll come up again in the last two books? And Terra sends Kyra on a quest involving vampires. There is darkness and death and it is very sobering but you can’t help but be drawn into it.
May 16, 2023
Kyra has her hands full with her pest removal business, her family, and Mason's new job. Now the Opji are moving in closer and attacking homesteaders. An old friend is in trouble and the demon in Mason is getting harder to control. All Kyra wants to do is be home with her kids, but if the Opji aren't stopped there won't be a home. Wonderful world building and lots of action in this one.
May 21, 2023
Love this series!!
Myra is a great character, full of humanity and courage. The plot has great flow, but it's a little hard to keep track of characters and what they are and where they came in to her life. Like Oscar, I couldn't remember if he was a gargoyle or creature, or what he looked like.
Myra is a great character, full of humanity and courage. The plot has great flow, but it's a little hard to keep track of characters and what they are and where they came in to her life. Like Oscar, I couldn't remember if he was a gargoyle or creature, or what he looked like.
May 21, 2023
Great Story
Lots happened in this book, with multiple subplots all leading to one big confrontation. It was exciting, but not all plot points were resolved in this book. Yes, I will keep reading the series, it is that good. Even though I typically hate unresolved issues in books. This seems to be the norm in urban fantasy.
Lots happened in this book, with multiple subplots all leading to one big confrontation. It was exciting, but not all plot points were resolved in this book. Yes, I will keep reading the series, it is that good. Even though I typically hate unresolved issues in books. This seems to be the norm in urban fantasy.
May 26, 2023
Love, love, love this series!
I am absolutely addicted to this series! Kyra, Mason, Jacoby, Gita...all of them....they feel like family. The way Kim McDougall writes reaches deep into my heart and allows these characters to become an integral part of my life! I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
I am absolutely addicted to this series! Kyra, Mason, Jacoby, Gita...all of them....they feel like family. The way Kim McDougall writes reaches deep into my heart and allows these characters to become an integral part of my life! I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
September 7, 2023
Cliffhanger
Now Kyra is Terra's chosen one. She has to save the Ward again by defeating the vampires, but this time, it's Terra herself who gives her that task.
Kyra has a lot on her plate, but at least we know that it was Terra who was looking at her since a couple of books back, and now she has to follow her orders.
This book has a lot going on, and I mean a lot. She feels like she is not doing enough, and both her and Mason have their hands full. Saving the world and going on adventures is not as easy as it used to be.
Since there are no more books and I have to wait to read the next one, I have to say I'm mad. I need to know what's next.
Now Kyra is Terra's chosen one. She has to save the Ward again by defeating the vampires, but this time, it's Terra herself who gives her that task.
Kyra has a lot on her plate, but at least we know that it was Terra who was looking at her since a couple of books back, and now she has to follow her orders.
This book has a lot going on, and I mean a lot. She feels like she is not doing enough, and both her and Mason have their hands full. Saving the world and going on adventures is not as easy as it used to be.
Since there are no more books and I have to wait to read the next one, I have to say I'm mad. I need to know what's next.
January 21, 2024
Great read!
This is an intense episode of the Valkyrie Bestiary series. I love the primary characters and there is always tension and drama but, this installment has little humor in it and lots of darkness. I’m looking forward to book 8 with huge hopes that some of the catastrophes can be resolved. I highly recommend the entire series.
Read via Kindle Unlimited
This is an intense episode of the Valkyrie Bestiary series. I love the primary characters and there is always tension and drama but, this installment has little humor in it and lots of darkness. I’m looking forward to book 8 with huge hopes that some of the catastrophes can be resolved. I highly recommend the entire series.
Read via Kindle Unlimited
May 25, 2023
Transparency note: I received an ARC copy in exchange for this review. I will try to avoid spoilers except in the most general sense.
Devils Don’t Lie is the newest book in the Valkyrie Bestiary series of post-apocalypse/urban fantasy novels by Kin McDougall. The Flood Wars, a conflict between humanity and literal demonic invaders, shattered civilization, confining the survivor to scattered enclaves called Wards (areas protected by alchemical magic). Between Wards, the lands known as the Inbetween, are dominated by raw nature, isolated homesteaders, and wild magic
The series follows the adventures of Kyra Greene, a fey/human hybrid who has been trained in the warrior arts of the Valkyrie (yes, those Valkyrie, though she is estranged from her Norse heritage). Kyra makes a living as an animal rescue specialist/pest-controller in late 21st century Québec. In the course of her job, she gets into adventures involving forces and situations way above her pay grade. As the series progresses, and she becomes more powerful and gains more allies and resources, the problems she faces become greater to match.
In Devils Don’t Lie, Kyra faces her severest challenge yet. Something has stirred up the Inbetween. The forests are burning, and the Opji (the race humanity knows as vampires) are becoming a major threat. It falls to Kyra and her allies to deal with it all.
What I like about this book is the way Kyra has to juggle all the roles she has taken on: businesswoman, animal lover, wife, and mother. In this book, she also becomes something of a general, marshaling her allies to resolve the threat as best they can. Additionally, she becomes the pawn of Terra, the mystic embodiment of all life on earth. This is, I suspect, part of setting up the next book, because it has surprisingly little to do with resolving the immediate situation. Even the gift she receives from the goddess plays no part in the matter. It is, however, way cool, and totally befitting who and what Kyra is.
I very much enjoy Kim’s writing style, her world-building, and her grasp of character voice. It’s a fast read (I finished in less than two days, total), but very satisfying.
5/5 stars. The book is currently available for pre-order, and will be out in a couple of weeks. Definitely check it out!
Devils Don’t Lie is the newest book in the Valkyrie Bestiary series of post-apocalypse/urban fantasy novels by Kin McDougall. The Flood Wars, a conflict between humanity and literal demonic invaders, shattered civilization, confining the survivor to scattered enclaves called Wards (areas protected by alchemical magic). Between Wards, the lands known as the Inbetween, are dominated by raw nature, isolated homesteaders, and wild magic
The series follows the adventures of Kyra Greene, a fey/human hybrid who has been trained in the warrior arts of the Valkyrie (yes, those Valkyrie, though she is estranged from her Norse heritage). Kyra makes a living as an animal rescue specialist/pest-controller in late 21st century Québec. In the course of her job, she gets into adventures involving forces and situations way above her pay grade. As the series progresses, and she becomes more powerful and gains more allies and resources, the problems she faces become greater to match.
In Devils Don’t Lie, Kyra faces her severest challenge yet. Something has stirred up the Inbetween. The forests are burning, and the Opji (the race humanity knows as vampires) are becoming a major threat. It falls to Kyra and her allies to deal with it all.
What I like about this book is the way Kyra has to juggle all the roles she has taken on: businesswoman, animal lover, wife, and mother. In this book, she also becomes something of a general, marshaling her allies to resolve the threat as best they can. Additionally, she becomes the pawn of Terra, the mystic embodiment of all life on earth. This is, I suspect, part of setting up the next book, because it has surprisingly little to do with resolving the immediate situation. Even the gift she receives from the goddess plays no part in the matter. It is, however, way cool, and totally befitting who and what Kyra is.
I very much enjoy Kim’s writing style, her world-building, and her grasp of character voice. It’s a fast read (I finished in less than two days, total), but very satisfying.
5/5 stars. The book is currently available for pre-order, and will be out in a couple of weeks. Definitely check it out!
May 18, 2023
Oh boy!
This was a whirlwind story with so much happening and no HEA in sight! Can't wait for book 8! This series is always such fun, and this read is a bit darker than some of the others. But I lived it!
This was a whirlwind story with so much happening and no HEA in sight! Can't wait for book 8! This series is always such fun, and this read is a bit darker than some of the others. But I lived it!
May 20, 2023
Loved it!!!!!!!!! This book was really good.It flows nicely & the action isn't rushed.The characters make you feel like they're with you.This has good moments & sad moments.I recommend this book for other readers to enjoy. I read this as an advanced copy for a review:)
May 23, 2023
Great book
All of this series is very good, exciting, suspenseful and a little romance. This one has a cliffhanger, so now I'm hoping the next is nearly ready for release. I'm hoping for a happy ending?!
All of this series is very good, exciting, suspenseful and a little romance. This one has a cliffhanger, so now I'm hoping the next is nearly ready for release. I'm hoping for a happy ending?!
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