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RELIC #4
Lost in Amber
Being alive for millions of years means I’m rarely surprised.
In the long expanse of my existence, I’ve been rescuing fossils for only a breath. During that time, my path has crossed with many different people — shifter and human alike.
Some friendly, some nefarious.
A hundred years ago, one such man graced me with his presence.
He was one of the few to have almost killed me.
Imagine my surprise when I see him again, buying the rarest amber fossil to have ever been discovered.
Precious. Beautiful. Unique.
A true treasure millions of years in the making.
I won’t let him get away again.
In the long expanse of my existence, I’ve been rescuing fossils for only a breath. During that time, my path has crossed with many different people — shifter and human alike.
Some friendly, some nefarious.
A hundred years ago, one such man graced me with his presence.
He was one of the few to have almost killed me.
Imagine my surprise when I see him again, buying the rarest amber fossil to have ever been discovered.
Precious. Beautiful. Unique.
A true treasure millions of years in the making.
I won’t let him get away again.
6 pages, Audible Audio
First published June 7, 2022
73 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
Maz Maddox
44 books694 followersMaz Maddox is the odd lovechild between a unicorn, dinosaur and vampire. The outcome is a human-like figure who inherited aspects of all three. She is a champion of logic and science, adores beauty and whimsy, and has a slight streak of darkness that dances the line of genius and insanity.
Residing in the wild land of cowboy boots and Shiner beer, Maz spends her time with her two dogs and a husband who she adores, and is constantly demanding that science gives her a pocket sized triceratops. The efforts of these demands have yet to be fulfilled.
When she’s not pining over the lack of chihuahua sized ornithischia, she’s a writer who loves crafting adventures tales sprinkled with humor, a hefty helping of romance, and topped with a happy ending.
Residing in the wild land of cowboy boots and Shiner beer, Maz spends her time with her two dogs and a husband who she adores, and is constantly demanding that science gives her a pocket sized triceratops. The efforts of these demands have yet to be fulfilled.
When she’s not pining over the lack of chihuahua sized ornithischia, she’s a writer who loves crafting adventures tales sprinkled with humor, a hefty helping of romance, and topped with a happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
April 22, 2024
Probably my least fave of the series, but also had some of the best parts of all of the books??
The sassiest non-binary dinosaur of all time - check ✅
The mysterious member, Yu, of RELIC being a big ass bitch for love - check ✅
Lance, our new character for book 4, being the anxious dino bean with the Troodon "deformed turkey"esque dinosaur form which "is really tough and ferocious" (look them up, they're so fucking cute, if I saw one on the street I'd hug it for sure, injuries be damned. If not friend, why friend shaped?) - check ✅
Cameo's from all my FAVE baby bois' from every other book - check ✅
Possessive protective Dino moments - check ✅
Hot use of candy for kissing moment - check ✅
Montana epilogue to GUT PUNCH you in your soul - check ✅
Bring back Xiang for sure, or give him his own series.
I loved him so much omggggggggggggg.
Maz maddox for the love of god, pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeee do it for ussssssssssssss.
BRING ON BOOK 5, WRECK ME, HURT ME, you won't.....
The sassiest non-binary dinosaur of all time - check ✅
The mysterious member, Yu, of RELIC being a big ass bitch for love - check ✅
Lance, our new character for book 4, being the anxious dino bean with the Troodon "deformed turkey"esque dinosaur form which "is really tough and ferocious" (look them up, they're so fucking cute, if I saw one on the street I'd hug it for sure, injuries be damned. If not friend, why friend shaped?) - check ✅
Cameo's from all my FAVE baby bois' from every other book - check ✅
Possessive protective Dino moments - check ✅
Hot use of candy for kissing moment - check ✅
Montana epilogue to GUT PUNCH you in your soul - check ✅
Bring back Xiang for sure, or give him his own series.
I loved him so much omggggggggggggg.
Maz maddox for the love of god, pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeee do it for ussssssssssssss.
BRING ON BOOK 5, WRECK ME, HURT ME, you won't.....
August 2, 2022
I loved how Yu and Lance's past run-in kept coming up throughout the story, but overall, this was my least favorite of this fun and interesting series.
It was still pretty good, though, so I'd rate it at around 3.5 stars and recommend it to fans of the series.
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October 10, 2023
I only read the first book in this series but I remember I absolutely loved it so when I saw this around here on Gr I decided to give it a try . I was pretty sure it won’t disappoint and I was right. This humorous,fast paced action packed,romantic dino-shifters story was a real treat. I adored sexy and fascinating Yu and shy, awkward and feisty Lance , they were awesome. Their chemistry was off the charts and their intimate scenes were of an incredible sensuality due to the wonderful writing. Hmm wonder why do I suddenly crave hard candies? 😁
Excellent.
Excellent.
June 7, 2022
This was awesome!
Maz Maddox and me are a very great fit, she writes epic books and I love them all.
Lost in Amber was the ultimate getaway from real life, and so enjoyable I’ve just finished what felt like seconds.
- adventure book
- lovable characters
- minimal angst
- well written
- great plot
- dinosaur shifters
- longing and pinning
- medium heat but good chemistry
- found family and the best side characters
- Forever together 💜
- ongoing series but can read as standalone
The book was very well balanced, the plot was fun and I felt in love with Lance and Yu. While I’m huge fun of the smut in my books, this has only one very hot and detailed 😉 scene, more wouldn’t fit in the book and I really didn’t miss it. The story floats so smoothly and naturally that I was captivated from the beginning, and couldn’t put it down till the very end. And that ending!! I already want to read the next book in the series with Montana and Henry.( grabby hands insert here)
“Even more reason to find them and love them. We’ll be around long after they’re all gone. They’re spring flowers—fleeting and momentary. We’re the mountains, unchanging and constant.”
My absolute favourite scene was the debut of the manly and very scary beast form of Lance and the sweetest Yu playing victim to let himself wooing by the terrifying dinosaur aka Lance😌
““What are you offering, Yulong?” My heart stumbled. The pounding lust from his sweet kisses across my skin shifted into something much more intense and a hell of a lot scarier. My fingers traced his cheek, and I saw the moment his heart did the same. “Everything.””
I highly recommend this book and the whole series, it’s fun, light and awesome with sweet romantic moments.
I received this ARC from Gay Romance Review, and this is my honest review.
Maz Maddox and me are a very great fit, she writes epic books and I love them all.
Lost in Amber was the ultimate getaway from real life, and so enjoyable I’ve just finished what felt like seconds.
- adventure book
- lovable characters
- minimal angst
- well written
- great plot
- dinosaur shifters
- longing and pinning
- medium heat but good chemistry
- found family and the best side characters
- Forever together 💜
- ongoing series but can read as standalone
The book was very well balanced, the plot was fun and I felt in love with Lance and Yu. While I’m huge fun of the smut in my books, this has only one very hot and detailed 😉 scene, more wouldn’t fit in the book and I really didn’t miss it. The story floats so smoothly and naturally that I was captivated from the beginning, and couldn’t put it down till the very end. And that ending!! I already want to read the next book in the series with Montana and Henry.( grabby hands insert here)
“Even more reason to find them and love them. We’ll be around long after they’re all gone. They’re spring flowers—fleeting and momentary. We’re the mountains, unchanging and constant.”
My absolute favourite scene was the debut of the manly and very scary beast form of Lance and the sweetest Yu playing victim to let himself wooing by the terrifying dinosaur aka Lance😌
““What are you offering, Yulong?” My heart stumbled. The pounding lust from his sweet kisses across my skin shifted into something much more intense and a hell of a lot scarier. My fingers traced his cheek, and I saw the moment his heart did the same. “Everything.””
I highly recommend this book and the whole series, it’s fun, light and awesome with sweet romantic moments.
I received this ARC from Gay Romance Review, and this is my honest review.
June 7, 2022
𝟯. -𝗶 ♥ 𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗼𝘀- 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀- ✩
𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰 ♫
↬ 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗔𝗹𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄 😉
Overall, I had a fun time with this quick little book. Getting the scoop on the mysterious Yu was fun, and Lance's tyrannosaur was low-key fierce and adorable.
That said, I couldn't help but feel as though Yu and Lance weren't the stars of their own story? I mean … they weren't even featured in their own epilogue, sooooo 😬😬
However, I am excited for Montana's upcoming story!! Here's hoping I end up liking it as much as books one and two 🤞🤞
previous book review 🦖
❛I was fairly sure I just fell into a very deep, very bottomless, heart-shaped pit when it came to this suave, handsome, headache-inducing man.❜
𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰 ♫
↬ 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗔𝗹𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄 😉
Overall, I had a fun time with this quick little book. Getting the scoop on the mysterious Yu was fun, and Lance's tyrannosaur was low-key fierce and adorable.
That said, I couldn't help but feel as though Yu and Lance weren't the stars of their own story? I mean … they weren't even featured in their own epilogue, sooooo 😬😬
However, I am excited for Montana's upcoming story!! Here's hoping I end up liking it as much as books one and two 🤞🤞
previous book review 🦖
July 14, 2022
I think I keep saying this after I read a new book from this series, "This deserves more love and attention". I mean where else do you get to see so many snarky, sassy Dinosaur shifters??? As usual, Maz Maddox's writing is witty, and the characters are quirky. And, although 2nd book(enemies to lover trope) is still my favorite from the series, I enjoyed this one as many other books of the series.
Thank god!! we are finally getting Montana`s book.
Thank god!! we are finally getting Montana`s book.
March 13, 2025
Weirdly keep coming back for more of this silly little dino series. I liked Yu and Lance more than the last MC’s . Their romance had more substance, a bit of backstory and I followed along with the plot this time. Things are superficial and I wouldn’t think too hard about anything but it’s very easy to read and there are some fun moments with the side characters. Still completely ridiculous - I was laughing out loud at the ferocious turkey in the alley scene.
August 7, 2022
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Books in the RELIC series by Maz Maddox are always a good time, and Lost in Amber did not disappoint.
"I was fairly sure I just fell into a very deep, very bottomless, heart-shaped pit when it came to this suave , handsome, headache-inducing man."
I didn't really go into the book with any expectations because Yu has been a bit of a mystery up until now. We learn that when Yu loves, he falls hard and fast and changes a little each time. His fear of having his heart broken by Lance makes him endearing. Then we have Lance, who kind of stole the show from Yu in my opinion. Lance is a slightly flustered bow tie wearing man who is confident in his identity and sincerely caring. His inner dinosaur was a fun surprise and you'll have a huge smile on your face when he fiercely protects his giant yutyrannus , seriously adorable.
"The kiss consumed me, tugged at the deep, feral beast hidden inside of my human form, and melted my sensibilities into a useless puddle."
While we spent some time with past characters (Dalton was classic Dalton, and he's still my absolute favorite) we get to meet a few new ones as well. One being a microraptor who stole my heart and might {gasp} rival my love for Dalton, but we shall see. I'm hoping Lance's team get their own spin off series in the future.
The story line is as expected for a RELIC book. A quick, fun read with a dash of danger and steam. While I was a little bummed with the fact that the epilogue didn't even include our two main characters, it did leave me so freaking excited about the next book.
Lost in Amber by Maz Maddox is a fun RELIC adventure set in Shanghai with hard candy kisses, enough dumplings and buns to make you hungry, banter, new friends and old, and of course all the Dino goodness.
Books in the RELIC series by Maz Maddox are always a good time, and Lost in Amber did not disappoint.
"I was fairly sure I just fell into a very deep, very bottomless, heart-shaped pit when it came to this suave , handsome, headache-inducing man."
I didn't really go into the book with any expectations because Yu has been a bit of a mystery up until now. We learn that when Yu loves, he falls hard and fast and changes a little each time. His fear of having his heart broken by Lance makes him endearing. Then we have Lance, who kind of stole the show from Yu in my opinion. Lance is a slightly flustered bow tie wearing man who is confident in his identity and sincerely caring. His inner dinosaur was a fun surprise and you'll have a huge smile on your face when he fiercely protects his giant yutyrannus , seriously adorable.
"The kiss consumed me, tugged at the deep, feral beast hidden inside of my human form, and melted my sensibilities into a useless puddle."
While we spent some time with past characters (Dalton was classic Dalton, and he's still my absolute favorite) we get to meet a few new ones as well. One being a microraptor who stole my heart and might {gasp} rival my love for Dalton, but we shall see. I'm hoping Lance's team get their own spin off series in the future.
The story line is as expected for a RELIC book. A quick, fun read with a dash of danger and steam. While I was a little bummed with the fact that the epilogue didn't even include our two main characters, it did leave me so freaking excited about the next book.
Lost in Amber by Maz Maddox is a fun RELIC adventure set in Shanghai with hard candy kisses, enough dumplings and buns to make you hungry, banter, new friends and old, and of course all the Dino goodness.
June 19, 2024
Hard candy will never be the same again 🍬
By now you know I’m tearing though this series. One more to go, so bear with me 🤣
I loved the series so far, although I must confess that this book wasn’t quite as good as the previous ones.
It might be because it’s the 4th book I’ve read/listened to in a row from the same series, and bingeing has its downsides because you might get bored a bit. But I don’t think this was the main reason - I think the setting didn’t quite work for me.
It’s the story of Yu, the Asian RELIC, and Lance, another shifter he briefly met 100(ish) years ago, and who (more it less by accident) shot him - and nursed him back to life. The plot is set in China, in Shanghai, and both Lance and Yu are after a very special artifact, a baby dinosaur in amber.
It’s very… idk. At times it feels like a city tour with all the locations in Shanghai. The couple itself is cute, especially Lance, the peacock-o-saurus. I loved how he tried to defend his beloved mate when Yu got in a fight with some gangsters trying to steal the artifact 😬
Another thing I liked: that Reuben, the Argentinian shifter, made an appearance, and his motive for collecting pieces of fossils is revealed.
What’s keeping me from giving it 4 stars: I didn’t particularly like the addition of Xiang, the nonbinary bird(ish) shifter, he didn’t feel fleshed out, but I guess somewhere out there is a book about Reuben and him. It was a bit… idk. Calculated? Like - we already had a nerd/“jock” pair, a grumpy/sunshine, a tech guy/drag queen and now a pair where both were from rival “families”. So now we’re setting up the non-binary character and the next book deals with the “dead ex trope”? I’m sorry if it feels like a rant, it isn’t what I intended, I had a lot of fun reading the book. But adding Xiang to the mix just didn’t feel very organic to me.
But mainly, it was the epilogue that made me round down my 3.5 stars - an epilogue that’s not about the main couple? Why? We want to see them ride into the sunset, or well settled into their relationship. Setting up the final instalment wasn’t it, sorry.
Still: I had a good time for the most part, and I can’t wait to finish the series.
Oh and check out the author’s bio 😬 the love child of a unicorn, a dinosaur and a vampire? How cute is that?
By now you know I’m tearing though this series. One more to go, so bear with me 🤣
I loved the series so far, although I must confess that this book wasn’t quite as good as the previous ones.
It might be because it’s the 4th book I’ve read/listened to in a row from the same series, and bingeing has its downsides because you might get bored a bit. But I don’t think this was the main reason - I think the setting didn’t quite work for me.
It’s the story of Yu, the Asian RELIC, and Lance, another shifter he briefly met 100(ish) years ago, and who (more it less by accident) shot him - and nursed him back to life. The plot is set in China, in Shanghai, and both Lance and Yu are after a very special artifact, a baby dinosaur in amber.
It’s very… idk. At times it feels like a city tour with all the locations in Shanghai. The couple itself is cute, especially Lance, the peacock-o-saurus. I loved how he tried to defend his beloved mate when Yu got in a fight with some gangsters trying to steal the artifact 😬
Another thing I liked: that Reuben, the Argentinian shifter, made an appearance, and his motive for collecting pieces of fossils is revealed.
What’s keeping me from giving it 4 stars: I didn’t particularly like the addition of Xiang, the nonbinary bird(ish) shifter, he didn’t feel fleshed out, but I guess somewhere out there is a book about Reuben and him. It was a bit… idk. Calculated? Like - we already had a nerd/“jock” pair, a grumpy/sunshine, a tech guy/drag queen and now a pair where both were from rival “families”. So now we’re setting up the non-binary character and the next book deals with the “dead ex trope”? I’m sorry if it feels like a rant, it isn’t what I intended, I had a lot of fun reading the book. But adding Xiang to the mix just didn’t feel very organic to me.
But mainly, it was the epilogue that made me round down my 3.5 stars - an epilogue that’s not about the main couple? Why? We want to see them ride into the sunset, or well settled into their relationship. Setting up the final instalment wasn’t it, sorry.
Still: I had a good time for the most part, and I can’t wait to finish the series.
Oh and check out the author’s bio 😬 the love child of a unicorn, a dinosaur and a vampire? How cute is that?
November 21, 2022
Maz Maddox's Relic series is so much fun, if you haven't delved into this wacky and wonderful world yet, then grab Smash & Grab and get started! You can read these stories as standalones, but I think the Relic universe flows best in order.
Even better, try it in audio. Kirt Graves delivers an excellent performance, and truly brings Maddox's creative characters to life.
an audiobook copy of Lost in Amber was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
Even better, try it in audio. Kirt Graves delivers an excellent performance, and truly brings Maddox's creative characters to life.
an audiobook copy of Lost in Amber was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
May 19, 2022
Lost in Amber is a delicious slow burn second chance romance with a hunt for a stolen relic
Yu and Lance met a hundred years ago and nearly became something but missed their chance.
Reunited on accident in China, they pair up to find a stolen relic but these guys are from 2 very different teams with dissimilar goals.
Slower to get going for me, I found the plot and action all picked up in the last third with the arrival of some old faces. Really, Ruben and Xiang stole the show and I really want more from both. I'd have loved an epilogue from Lance and Yu but enjoyed the one we got. I'm hopeful that book is next.
This book has a different vibe from the others, Yu is much more restrained compared to Dalton or Royal, though it still has fun moments.
I love this series and can't wait for more.
Yu and Lance met a hundred years ago and nearly became something but missed their chance.
Reunited on accident in China, they pair up to find a stolen relic but these guys are from 2 very different teams with dissimilar goals.
Slower to get going for me, I found the plot and action all picked up in the last third with the arrival of some old faces. Really, Ruben and Xiang stole the show and I really want more from both. I'd have loved an epilogue from Lance and Yu but enjoyed the one we got. I'm hopeful that book is next.
This book has a different vibe from the others, Yu is much more restrained compared to Dalton or Royal, though it still has fun moments.
I love this series and can't wait for more.
May 25, 2022
I just LOVE this series so so much!
If you're a big fan of second chances (honestly, even if you're NOT - b/c I'm not a huge fan, you need to read this book anyway), of rivals/opposing sides to lovers, of all the feels with a delicious slow burn, and plenty of action and dinosaur adventure, then you've gotta get caught up on this series and get to this book.
I loved Yu and Lance, so so much. I really loved Lance in this book - his dino side is precious - I MEAN FEROCIOUS! The two met 100 years ago and left quite the impact on each other. Now they meet again in the present and wind up having to work together to smuggle a priceless fossil out of China.
This one had a slower start to build to the action for me, but I really loved Yu and Lance navigating each other, that push/pull between the two of them thanks to their shared history. A lot of hesitation and that delicious slow burn simmer. I loved it.
Also! I loved Xiang and I really want them to have a story! With Ruben! LOL
AND I want a story for Henry!
Love getting to see the RELIC crew featured some at the end, and I feel like we have so many new characters with Ruben's crew now linked together with Lance and Yu being together.
ALSO. How can we figure out a way to make Simon and Blaise immortal so Dalton and Royal never have to lose them?? Can we figure that out with some dino DNA?
Honestly. I adore this series with all my heart and I never want it to end. I received an arc in exchange for a review.
If you're a big fan of second chances (honestly, even if you're NOT - b/c I'm not a huge fan, you need to read this book anyway), of rivals/opposing sides to lovers, of all the feels with a delicious slow burn, and plenty of action and dinosaur adventure, then you've gotta get caught up on this series and get to this book.
I loved Yu and Lance, so so much. I really loved Lance in this book - his dino side is precious - I MEAN FEROCIOUS! The two met 100 years ago and left quite the impact on each other. Now they meet again in the present and wind up having to work together to smuggle a priceless fossil out of China.
This one had a slower start to build to the action for me, but I really loved Yu and Lance navigating each other, that push/pull between the two of them thanks to their shared history. A lot of hesitation and that delicious slow burn simmer. I loved it.
Also! I loved Xiang and I really want them to have a story! With Ruben! LOL
AND I want a story for Henry!
Love getting to see the RELIC crew featured some at the end, and I feel like we have so many new characters with Ruben's crew now linked together with Lance and Yu being together.
ALSO. How can we figure out a way to make Simon and Blaise immortal so Dalton and Royal never have to lose them?? Can we figure that out with some dino DNA?
Honestly. I adore this series with all my heart and I never want it to end. I received an arc in exchange for a review.
August 2, 2022
Treated myself to KU and here I am catching up on all the series I binged the last time around.
It's been a while since I was in this world so maybe that's why it took some adjusting but.. I didn't quite love this the way I remember loving the first two books. It wasn't helped by scenes kind of shifting (hah) into weird situations that didn't quite make sense; maybe some editing got lost in translation? Unsure. But I do like that the two teams are maybe going to be joining forces, or at least not being antagonistic, and I can see that causing some fun mayhem along the way.
Also, Lance being referred to as a rabid goose/turkey will never not be funny. That was probably the best scene.
2.5 stars
It's been a while since I was in this world so maybe that's why it took some adjusting but.. I didn't quite love this the way I remember loving the first two books. It wasn't helped by scenes kind of shifting (hah) into weird situations that didn't quite make sense; maybe some editing got lost in translation? Unsure. But I do like that the two teams are maybe going to be joining forces, or at least not being antagonistic, and I can see that causing some fun mayhem along the way.
Also, Lance being referred to as a rabid goose/turkey will never not be funny. That was probably the best scene.
2.5 stars
May 13, 2022
First let me tell you, I am absolutely in love with this series. The whole take on our dinosaurs sleeping through extinction and then waking up millions of years later as shifters & not having a clue what happened is intriguing. Anyway, 100 years ago Lance shot Yu at a dig site by mistake. Lance nursed him back to health & then sent him away. Neither thought they would see each other again so imagine their surprise when they do end up going after an amber fossil. They both want it for different reasons. Lance cracked me up as he is only about 3' tall in his shifted form, but sees himself as a fierce defender/protector. We are introduced to some new characters, a sweet nonbinary microraptor named Xiang, and I hope we see more of them in future books. And the group that Royal ran into in the prior book & find out what they are really up to. Montana is still grieving for his dead mate & I hope he finds love again. Maybe Ruben? Also, I'm hoping that Origin will get their own spin-off. It was a quick sweet read & I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion
February 26, 2023
I'm not a reader who goes out of her way to read shifters. If an author I like writes a shifter book, I'll read it, but most of the time I just don't go looking for them. When I saw Smash and Grab, the first of the RELIC series, I just had to give it a try, because really, dinosaur shifters? How can you not at least TRY them? The first book exceeded my expectations and every one since then has been a treat. Lost in Amber is no exception. I fell head-over-heels for these characters. The plot moves along briskly, yet there's plenty of time for sparks to fly between these Yu and Lance. This really is not a standalone book, though. You'll need to start at the beginning and read them in order to get the most enjoyment, but that's no hardship, since they're all fun and sexy reads, (especially my spirit animal, Baha, from Sink or Swim, book 2.) If you've not started, this is a perfect series to binge-read!
June 15, 2022
Lost in Amber is my favorite in the series so far. I loved it! Maz Maddox was a new to me author when I picked up the first book in this series and has quickly become a favorite auto-read author. She has been quite successful in winning me over by giving me a wonderful escape with the books in the series while keeping each of them fresh and unique.
With Lost in Amber, I got MCs that push all my buttons! I’m super into nerdy, scholarly introverts so bonded with Lance immediately. Then there’s Yu, a gentle, thoughtful, sensitive soul with a self possessed but intense power and confidence that felt delightfully unexpected given the poetic way he expresses himself and how he views the world and his place in it. Together Lance and Yu formed a pair that captured my heart in every way. I loved their dynamic and history. The way their brief but meaningful meeting nearly a century before their reunion in the present shaped them individually and impacted the way they interacted and bonded through the story was captivating and added a lovely depth and nuance to their relationship.
Alexandra does a much better job at expressing the joy of this story than I’m doing, check out her lovely review here.
I almost forgot to mention the epilogue! Told from Montana’s POV and includes Henry *gaaaahhhh* I’d been dying to know how things were going with Henry and am now more eager than ever for MORE! Echoing Alexandra, *insert grabby hands!*
With Lost in Amber, I got MCs that push all my buttons! I’m super into nerdy, scholarly introverts so bonded with Lance immediately. Then there’s Yu, a gentle, thoughtful, sensitive soul with a self possessed but intense power and confidence that felt delightfully unexpected given the poetic way he expresses himself and how he views the world and his place in it. Together Lance and Yu formed a pair that captured my heart in every way. I loved their dynamic and history. The way their brief but meaningful meeting nearly a century before their reunion in the present shaped them individually and impacted the way they interacted and bonded through the story was captivating and added a lovely depth and nuance to their relationship.
Alexandra does a much better job at expressing the joy of this story than I’m doing, check out her lovely review here.
I almost forgot to mention the epilogue! Told from Montana’s POV and includes Henry *gaaaahhhh* I’d been dying to know how things were going with Henry and am now more eager than ever for MORE! Echoing Alexandra, *insert grabby hands!*
October 10, 2023
Short, sweet, needed another 30 pages of romance to be perfect, but still a blast. This series is so fun. I LOVED Lance.
One thing I do hate though - the epilogue wasn’t even about this couple. I wish authors would stop that
One thing I do hate though - the epilogue wasn’t even about this couple. I wish authors would stop that
June 13, 2025
3.5 Stars
As always Maz delivers on a fun dinosaur romp filled with laughs, action, and amazing characters. Yu has always been somewhat of a mystery so it was great hearing more about him, and Lance was one of those characters I instantly loved (probably because I related to the bumbling awkwardness of him). I really enjoyed how this time around we got to see a different culture and different dinosaurs; Maz makes sure that this series is never repetitive in its tales. I will say this was probably my least favorite in the series. Not that it wasn't great, because it absolutely was, the main story line and connection between the MCS just somehow felt to get a little lost within introducing new characters and plot lines. Still, the epilogue left me SO FREAKING EXCITED for the next book. Bring on Montana's story!
As always Maz delivers on a fun dinosaur romp filled with laughs, action, and amazing characters. Yu has always been somewhat of a mystery so it was great hearing more about him, and Lance was one of those characters I instantly loved (probably because I related to the bumbling awkwardness of him). I really enjoyed how this time around we got to see a different culture and different dinosaurs; Maz makes sure that this series is never repetitive in its tales. I will say this was probably my least favorite in the series. Not that it wasn't great, because it absolutely was, the main story line and connection between the MCS just somehow felt to get a little lost within introducing new characters and plot lines. Still, the epilogue left me SO FREAKING EXCITED for the next book. Bring on Montana's story!
February 18, 2025
I really enjoyed how Yu and Lance had a completely different feel to the rest of the series so far. These two are much more serious in their personalities, unlike the chaotic messes that are Dalton, Royal and Jackson.
I loved that there was a lot of history between these two, and also the culture and scientific research that this story was based around. Also the significance of 'candy' was ridiculously cute.
My absolute favourite part though is when Lance shifts and the humans describe him as a mutated turkey while he thinks he's some absolute badass dinosaur protecting his mate 😂😂😂 Honestly laughed so hard, but Yu letting Lance believe in himself as a scary dude was heartwarming!
I loved the chemistry between Xiang and Ruben and I really hope that they get a story of their own eventually.
I loved that there was a lot of history between these two, and also the culture and scientific research that this story was based around. Also the significance of 'candy' was ridiculously cute.
My absolute favourite part though is when Lance shifts and the humans describe him as a mutated turkey while he thinks he's some absolute badass dinosaur protecting his mate 😂😂😂 Honestly laughed so hard, but Yu letting Lance believe in himself as a scary dude was heartwarming!
I loved the chemistry between Xiang and Ruben and I really hope that they get a story of their own eventually.
June 10, 2022
This one is my fault. My reading at the moment is hit and miss and I’m currently addicted to webtoons. I love dino shifters, but should’ve done a recap. I’ve forgotten who most of the characters were and compared to the craziness of the others, Yu and Lance were a bit more subdued. Got annoyed at Montana making Yu go cold. Favorite bit was Lance transforming and being protective. Funny as well. Will be interesting to see how the two groups interact in the future. Curious about Xiang.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2023
Favorite scene in this is their first shift and this little feral goose/turkey shaking his tail feathers and thinking he's intimidating.
More fossil shenanigans, enjoyed the prologue in this. It did kinda feel like the author googled "what to eat and do in China" and just did a blanket 'they eat dumplings there' for many of their eating scenes, lol.
Not my favorite, but not my least favorite of the series.
More fossil shenanigans, enjoyed the prologue in this. It did kinda feel like the author googled "what to eat and do in China" and just did a blanket 'they eat dumplings there' for many of their eating scenes, lol.
Not my favorite, but not my least favorite of the series.
September 20, 2023
I was fairly sure I just fell into a very deep, very bottomless, heart-shaped pit when it came to this suave, handsome, headache-inducing man.
This is the swooniest book in the series (so far) and I just loved it!!! We follow Yu to the streets of Shanghai where he runs into Lance - a man who shot him a lifetime ago and then guiltily nursed him back to health. They had this instant connection but lost track of each other. In this life Lance is working for a rival dino shifter team (the same one that showed up in book 3) and in an effort to rescue a priceless fossilised chunk of amber with a dino baby inside the two rivals are forced to team up.
This was so fun and fast! There’s lots of action and tension building up the romance. It’s a little slower burn than the previous books but so sweetly delicious when things kick off. There’s more angst in this one too - my heart was breaking when Yu offered to completely uproot his life for Lance and was rejected. Ugh. But it has a lovely ending and sets up nicely for book 5 which is out this week!
**idk if there’s going to be a book for them, but I’d love to see chaotic enby Xiang get their HEA with Ruben 🥺
This is the swooniest book in the series (so far) and I just loved it!!! We follow Yu to the streets of Shanghai where he runs into Lance - a man who shot him a lifetime ago and then guiltily nursed him back to health. They had this instant connection but lost track of each other. In this life Lance is working for a rival dino shifter team (the same one that showed up in book 3) and in an effort to rescue a priceless fossilised chunk of amber with a dino baby inside the two rivals are forced to team up.
This was so fun and fast! There’s lots of action and tension building up the romance. It’s a little slower burn than the previous books but so sweetly delicious when things kick off. There’s more angst in this one too - my heart was breaking when Yu offered to completely uproot his life for Lance and was rejected. Ugh. But it has a lovely ending and sets up nicely for book 5 which is out this week!
**idk if there’s going to be a book for them, but I’d love to see chaotic enby Xiang get their HEA with Ruben 🥺
June 13, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Lost in Amber is the fourth book in the RELIC series and I find these books so much fun. The focus is on the RELIC team, a group of dinosaur shifters who seek to protect the bones and fossils from falling into the wrong hands. Each book features a new couple, but this story does tie in with King and Queen in that Lance is part of the other fossil hunting group we learn about there and we get some more answers as to what they are seeking. So being familiar with that book would be a help here, but not strictly necessary.
I like the way this series follows this same group of men, but gives us new shifters and a new setting for each book to keep things interesting.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Lost in Amber is the fourth book in the RELIC series and I find these books so much fun. The focus is on the RELIC team, a group of dinosaur shifters who seek to protect the bones and fossils from falling into the wrong hands. Each book features a new couple, but this story does tie in with King and Queen in that Lance is part of the other fossil hunting group we learn about there and we get some more answers as to what they are seeking. So being familiar with that book would be a help here, but not strictly necessary.
I like the way this series follows this same group of men, but gives us new shifters and a new setting for each book to keep things interesting.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
May 28, 2022
This series holds my heart and I may have some new favourites with this book, although Baha is still top of the list for me. I really enjoyed Lance and Yu, it took a little while to fall into their romance but they were so sweet together.
I'm not always keen on second chance, however it worked beautifully here. Getting to see their original meeting and that connection from the start. How they're still uncertain and have their original goals too, which don't exactly align with each other.
So many great lines and humor as always, I love all of the dinosaur antics and this one didn't disappoint. Lance wanting to protect and going on defensive, with all of his feathers and claws despite his small size was adorable. Got large dinos too, but the smaller ones get to shine in this one which I adored.
The Microraptor is a stunning new addition, i hope get to see more of them. Get more of Montana in this one too, I'm curious to see his story as the talks of his past and Reaper always so heartbreaking. Also enjoyed seeing Ruben and learning more about the other dino team, be interested to see their stories too.
I adored the relationship developing between Lance and Yu, the banter and push/pull between them. As they compete and challenge each other, before working together to acheive their goal. The candy and exploring Shanghai together, reminiscing on their individual histories.
They get to know one another truly even over a short amount of time, it suited them and I liked how they communicated throughout . Even if disagreed they still tried and I loved them so much!
Overall an entertaining, fast paced and whirlwind adventure. The setting was beautiful and I loved the resolution, leading to a happy ending for Lance & Yu 💕
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review*
I'm not always keen on second chance, however it worked beautifully here. Getting to see their original meeting and that connection from the start. How they're still uncertain and have their original goals too, which don't exactly align with each other.
So many great lines and humor as always, I love all of the dinosaur antics and this one didn't disappoint. Lance wanting to protect and going on defensive, with all of his feathers and claws despite his small size was adorable. Got large dinos too, but the smaller ones get to shine in this one which I adored.
The Microraptor is a stunning new addition, i hope get to see more of them. Get more of Montana in this one too, I'm curious to see his story as the talks of his past and Reaper always so heartbreaking. Also enjoyed seeing Ruben and learning more about the other dino team, be interested to see their stories too.
I adored the relationship developing between Lance and Yu, the banter and push/pull between them. As they compete and challenge each other, before working together to acheive their goal. The candy and exploring Shanghai together, reminiscing on their individual histories.
They get to know one another truly even over a short amount of time, it suited them and I liked how they communicated throughout . Even if disagreed they still tried and I loved them so much!
Overall an entertaining, fast paced and whirlwind adventure. The setting was beautiful and I loved the resolution, leading to a happy ending for Lance & Yu 💕
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review*
May 13, 2022
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Lost in Amber is the fourth book in Maz Maddox's hysterical dino shifter series, RELIC. Yu has been a character that has always been in the background as one of the RELIC brothers but we didn't know too much about him. He is a funny character in the sense that you can tell he's enjoyed his life for centuries as a shifter who loves living amongst the humans. To say he is interested when he comes across a fellow shifter who he never expected again is an understatement. He never forgets a first time and Lance unknowingly provides more of those than he could know.
Lance is a character that I immediately adored because he is just uniquely himself even with his anxiety and quirks. His shifter side is amazing and he embraces everything that made him a fierce predator in his day. He never expects to come across Yu again after their disastrous first encounter but finds their second encounter to be entirely different.
As the two shifters work to recover the fossil they both desire they can't help but embrace the chemistry they feel even after all these years. Watching them allow themselves to just enjoy each other's company in and out of the bedroom was quite precious and lead me to liking them even more.
We meet some new characters that hopefully will be getting books because Xiang is fantastic and I bet there's a softy hiding somewhere in Reuben. Not to mention getting another piece of Montana and seeing him hopefully find a HEA.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the RELIC universe.
Lost in Amber is the fourth book in Maz Maddox's hysterical dino shifter series, RELIC. Yu has been a character that has always been in the background as one of the RELIC brothers but we didn't know too much about him. He is a funny character in the sense that you can tell he's enjoyed his life for centuries as a shifter who loves living amongst the humans. To say he is interested when he comes across a fellow shifter who he never expected again is an understatement. He never forgets a first time and Lance unknowingly provides more of those than he could know.
Lance is a character that I immediately adored because he is just uniquely himself even with his anxiety and quirks. His shifter side is amazing and he embraces everything that made him a fierce predator in his day. He never expects to come across Yu again after their disastrous first encounter but finds their second encounter to be entirely different.
As the two shifters work to recover the fossil they both desire they can't help but embrace the chemistry they feel even after all these years. Watching them allow themselves to just enjoy each other's company in and out of the bedroom was quite precious and lead me to liking them even more.
We meet some new characters that hopefully will be getting books because Xiang is fantastic and I bet there's a softy hiding somewhere in Reuben. Not to mention getting another piece of Montana and seeing him hopefully find a HEA.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the RELIC universe.
October 4, 2023
I fell asleep around the epic 95% scene- and it totally wasn't the books fault. I just had a day like that.
I really really love the crazy dino gang and especially fierce 🦃 bow tie wearing Lance! He and Yu are just perfect, and how their epic Lovestory started with a bang/shooting- ❤️ 🍬🦖
Can't wait to start with #5, Reem are you ready?!
I really really love the crazy dino gang and especially fierce 🦃 bow tie wearing Lance! He and Yu are just perfect, and how their epic Lovestory started with a bang/shooting- ❤️ 🍬🦖
Can't wait to start with #5, Reem are you ready?!
May 23, 2025
In love with this series! Can't wait to listen to this one soon! This book was so much fun! I love Yu and Lance. The book started off right away and didn't stop and they were so darn cute the entire time. I really didn't want this book to end.
I can't wait to read book 5 but I am NOT ready say goodbye to this crew :(
This is one of my fave series to date, and I am really looking forward to owning some of my own copies for rereads!
I can't wait to read book 5 but I am NOT ready say goodbye to this crew :(
This is one of my fave series to date, and I am really looking forward to owning some of my own copies for rereads!
March 11, 2025
This was way better than the previous one, the romance made more sense and the plot didn't feel like an afterthought and we finally got to see more of the "other" shifters.
I just want to get to Montana's book so I was happy with it specially after the epilogue.
I just want to get to Montana's book so I was happy with it specially after the epilogue.
December 2, 2022
[3.4~3.5] romance is probably a 3, but i had a fun time with everything else so rounding up!
i need more dinosaur shifters in my life 🦖
i need more dinosaur shifters in my life 🦖
January 13, 2023
I really love the RELIC series by Maz Maddox. In Lost in Amber Lance and Yu met 100 years ago on a dig site in Mongolia in pretty much the opposite of a meet cute - Lance shoots Yu. Fast forward a century and the two meet again when goes after a fossil Lance has purchased. Neither forgot the other and they are still attracted to one another but circumstances cause Lance to be cautious. Like the rest of the series, this book is filled with humor, romance and action. I highly recommend this book and series.
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