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The Gatekeeper #1
The Shoppe of Spells
When is a whole more than the sum of its parts?
When it has ties to the quaint little town of Ruthorford, GA, as Morgan Briscoe discovers when a cryptic message threatens to change her life forever. Morgan’s relatively normal life is turned on its ear when she learns not only that she is adopted, but her birth parents are dead and she now holds half-interest in a business with their ward, Dorian Drake.
Dorian is running The Shoppe of Spells and despite his riveting good looks, he can barely conceal his hostility toward his new partner.
Morgan discovers that she is more than she seems and together she and Dorian have the ability to control a portal to another dimension. Unable to control their growing attraction, Morgan and Dorian dance around their desires and her burgeoning abilities, until danger forces them to face their destiny.
When it has ties to the quaint little town of Ruthorford, GA, as Morgan Briscoe discovers when a cryptic message threatens to change her life forever. Morgan’s relatively normal life is turned on its ear when she learns not only that she is adopted, but her birth parents are dead and she now holds half-interest in a business with their ward, Dorian Drake.
Dorian is running The Shoppe of Spells and despite his riveting good looks, he can barely conceal his hostility toward his new partner.
Morgan discovers that she is more than she seems and together she and Dorian have the ability to control a portal to another dimension. Unable to control their growing attraction, Morgan and Dorian dance around their desires and her burgeoning abilities, until danger forces them to face their destiny.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
7 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
About the author
Shanon Grey
14 books98 followersSHANON GREY :: FictionWeaver, weaves a web of fiction, full of action and suspense, as well as mystery and romance, story after story. Visit the quaint southern town of Ruthorford, where science and magic merge, and the descendants have your back. Her novels, THE SHOPPE OF SPELLS, THE GATEKEEPERS, PENNYROYAL CHRISTMAS, TWISTED FATE, and SILENT WARRIOR continue to thrill people with suspense, threaded with the paranormal. For Romantic Suspense, enjoy GLYNDA'S DARE and CURRENTS OF DESTINY. Her latest books, DESCENDANT RISING and WHERE THE MISTLETOE GROWS, follow two men who come to Ruthorford for very different reasons only to meet suspense and intrigue.
Shanon spent her life on coasts, both the beautiful Atlantic and the balmy Gulf. A major hurricane taught her the fragility of life and the strength of friendship, family, and starting over.
Having dual careers, one as an author and the other in IT Security, affords her, in her dual personas, to meld expertise from many disciplines and venues into stories that keep her readers coming back for more.
Jerry Hampton, the companion attendant to the alter ego, Shanon Grey, provides the discipline and order to the creativity. She also provides the artistry that does into covers and accompanying materials for web sites, events, and book signings.
She currently lives in the mountains of Georgia, trading the familiarity of the coast for the lush beauty and wonder of the mountains, where her husband fulfilled her lifelong dream—to live in a cottage in the woods, where inspiration abounds.
Shanon spent her life on coasts, both the beautiful Atlantic and the balmy Gulf. A major hurricane taught her the fragility of life and the strength of friendship, family, and starting over.
Having dual careers, one as an author and the other in IT Security, affords her, in her dual personas, to meld expertise from many disciplines and venues into stories that keep her readers coming back for more.
Jerry Hampton, the companion attendant to the alter ego, Shanon Grey, provides the discipline and order to the creativity. She also provides the artistry that does into covers and accompanying materials for web sites, events, and book signings.
She currently lives in the mountains of Georgia, trading the familiarity of the coast for the lush beauty and wonder of the mountains, where her husband fulfilled her lifelong dream—to live in a cottage in the woods, where inspiration abounds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 5, 2011
I started this book out late last night and I gave up on my cleaning, so that I could devote all hours of the morning to this book.
Let me just say, I fell in love with not only all the characters in this book, but I also found a place in my heart for Ruthorford, Georgia as well.
I read a lot of paranormal books, sometimes a book a day. Do you know how hard it is to come up with a paranormal book that is unique and stands out? Because I read so much sometimes the books and authors blur together because either the stories are similar or the types of characters are similar (all the vamps being the same, or the creatures being the same etc). That was not the case for me with The Shoppe of Spells.
You'll spend most of this book asking yourself questions like "What is Morgan? What is Dorian? What is up with Ruthorford and the towns people?"
Morgan is an extremely fresh heroine with her compassion and love and finding out who she really is for the first time in her life.
There are not a ton of Indie authors out there who can compete with some of the New York Times authors, but Shanon Grey is definitely an author that I can see being on the NYT's best-sellers list.
If you want a refreshing change from the normal paranormal, I encourage you to pick up this book and let it take you away to the mysterious town of Ruthorford, in a story filled with mystery, magic, and love.
Reviewed by Paranormal Addicts
Let me just say, I fell in love with not only all the characters in this book, but I also found a place in my heart for Ruthorford, Georgia as well.
I read a lot of paranormal books, sometimes a book a day. Do you know how hard it is to come up with a paranormal book that is unique and stands out? Because I read so much sometimes the books and authors blur together because either the stories are similar or the types of characters are similar (all the vamps being the same, or the creatures being the same etc). That was not the case for me with The Shoppe of Spells.
You'll spend most of this book asking yourself questions like "What is Morgan? What is Dorian? What is up with Ruthorford and the towns people?"
Morgan is an extremely fresh heroine with her compassion and love and finding out who she really is for the first time in her life.
There are not a ton of Indie authors out there who can compete with some of the New York Times authors, but Shanon Grey is definitely an author that I can see being on the NYT's best-sellers list.
If you want a refreshing change from the normal paranormal, I encourage you to pick up this book and let it take you away to the mysterious town of Ruthorford, in a story filled with mystery, magic, and love.
Reviewed by Paranormal Addicts
October 1, 2011
Adopted and didn't know it..... Morgan finds out her biological parents are dead and she has been left a large sum of money and half a business. The other half of the business belongs to a man called Dorian who was raised by her biological parents. Morgan is very weary of Dorian and Ruthorford. She finds herself unbelievably attracted to Dorian and he helps her learn the traditions and secrets kept by her biological parents. Things are a lot more dangerous and mysterious then she could even fathom.
Find out how she gets through it all!
I'd like to start my review with the Dedication of the book. The Author dedicated it to her friend that she had lost just prior to her beginning her book. She lost her to Cancer. The dedication she wrote was so heartfelt and touching, having lost loved ones to cancer myself it made me feel even closer to the author and made me feel very lucky to have the chance to read the book dedicated to such a special person in her life.
I also feel lucky to have been able to read this book, it was very intriguing and kept me up very late into the wee hours of the morning. I had a hard time to put it down. I love the concept of portals and the paranormal in general. The idea in this book are somewhat different from others that I have read like it. The secondary characters also come alive on the pages and I look forward to reading more about them when the next book in this series is out.
I found myself riveted by the relationship and passion that slowly builds between the 2 main characters. Love that is true in every sense.
I recommend this book all around. I had to race through it to know what would happen next and I'm sure you'll feel the same way!
Find out how she gets through it all!
I'd like to start my review with the Dedication of the book. The Author dedicated it to her friend that she had lost just prior to her beginning her book. She lost her to Cancer. The dedication she wrote was so heartfelt and touching, having lost loved ones to cancer myself it made me feel even closer to the author and made me feel very lucky to have the chance to read the book dedicated to such a special person in her life.
I also feel lucky to have been able to read this book, it was very intriguing and kept me up very late into the wee hours of the morning. I had a hard time to put it down. I love the concept of portals and the paranormal in general. The idea in this book are somewhat different from others that I have read like it. The secondary characters also come alive on the pages and I look forward to reading more about them when the next book in this series is out.
I found myself riveted by the relationship and passion that slowly builds between the 2 main characters. Love that is true in every sense.
I recommend this book all around. I had to race through it to know what would happen next and I'm sure you'll feel the same way!
November 20, 2011
Review by Stephanie O: Recently laid off and gone through a break up, Morgan spends her days at her apartment working in her balcony garden of herbs. Until one day when a call would come in that would change everything.
In a matter of one afternoon, she finds that she is not the biological daughter of her “parents”, but that she was put up for adoption and her biological parents are dead. Decisions need to be made and Morgan is jetted off to meet her brother?!
Dorian isn’t actually her brother. However, the two of them hold interest in what her biological parents have built. Trying hard to understand all that has happened, and what it all means . . .Morgan finds that she is drawn to Dorian, and she can’t explain why.
Ok, so take the above mentioned scenario and let’s add in a dash of danger, the unknown, a crazy person (or two), some caring people, and a best friend everyone wishes to have and you have a wonderful story! I really enjoyed this story. I’m very excited about the fact that this is a series and we get to visit again.
So, grab a copy and get ready to fall in love, with Morgan and Dorian as well as all the people that genuinely care for them.
In a matter of one afternoon, she finds that she is not the biological daughter of her “parents”, but that she was put up for adoption and her biological parents are dead. Decisions need to be made and Morgan is jetted off to meet her brother?!
Dorian isn’t actually her brother. However, the two of them hold interest in what her biological parents have built. Trying hard to understand all that has happened, and what it all means . . .Morgan finds that she is drawn to Dorian, and she can’t explain why.
Ok, so take the above mentioned scenario and let’s add in a dash of danger, the unknown, a crazy person (or two), some caring people, and a best friend everyone wishes to have and you have a wonderful story! I really enjoyed this story. I’m very excited about the fact that this is a series and we get to visit again.
So, grab a copy and get ready to fall in love, with Morgan and Dorian as well as all the people that genuinely care for them.
December 25, 2011
a LASR 'BEST BOOK'!
originally posted at http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
Morgan grew up with loving parents and knew they would always be there for her. She now has her own apartment and lives there with her cat Mrs T. Her problem is how to tell her parents she has lost her job and has also broken up with her boyfriend. Her life changes dramatically when a courier knocks on her door with a letter asking her to call a firm of solicitors.
Horror, anger and confusion overcome her as she learns her parents adopted her when she was six weeks old. A visit to the solicitors brings more confusion. She learns her real parents have died. After they gave her up for adoption they took in a young boy and brought him up as their own. She struggles to understand why they would give away their own baby and take in another child.
When she meets Dorian and enters The Shoppe of Spells in Ruthorford she steps into a completely different world from the one she grew up in. Ruthorford takes her into its warm embrace. She finds her strange emerald green eyes which have always embarrassed her are accepted as normal by the inhabitants of the small town. The nightmares she has experienced intermittently since she was a child return to haunt her, but now they are more substantial. Dorian attracts her in more than a lustful way, their interactions seem to bring about an electrical connectivity.
Morgan must learn about the past, and choose her future. Dorian’s task is to help her understand what is required of her, and smooth her path to using her talents. Only Dorian knows how disastrous it will be if they give in to their longing for each before Morgan truly understands the situation.
This book drew me in from the beginning. I felt comfortable and relaxed as I read page after page. I empathized with both Morgan and Dorian and the history behind the characters unfolded as the book evolved. Everything I needed for a great read was presented to me. The good, the bad and the mysterious. Food sounded comforting and appetizing, but it blended into the scene and was not presented as a bare description. Love scenes came naturally. Magic and fantasy which had me looking over my shoulder to see if the purple people were behind me. All these things made me forget where I actually was. Instead I went with Morgan as she discovered her unknown past, and sympathized with Dorian as he tried to come to terms with this beautiful woman who had erupted into his life.
I would have read The Shoppe of Spells in one go but life intervened and forced me to break my reading time into three. The last time I refused to put the book down until I’d finished it. It’s rare to find a well written story that is also well edited and with a gorgeous cover. The author did the hard work but has been ably assisted by the publishers representatives. And better still this is the first of a series! Well done Ms Grey. I look forward to the next book in The Gatekeepers series.
originally posted at http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
Morgan grew up with loving parents and knew they would always be there for her. She now has her own apartment and lives there with her cat Mrs T. Her problem is how to tell her parents she has lost her job and has also broken up with her boyfriend. Her life changes dramatically when a courier knocks on her door with a letter asking her to call a firm of solicitors.
Horror, anger and confusion overcome her as she learns her parents adopted her when she was six weeks old. A visit to the solicitors brings more confusion. She learns her real parents have died. After they gave her up for adoption they took in a young boy and brought him up as their own. She struggles to understand why they would give away their own baby and take in another child.
When she meets Dorian and enters The Shoppe of Spells in Ruthorford she steps into a completely different world from the one she grew up in. Ruthorford takes her into its warm embrace. She finds her strange emerald green eyes which have always embarrassed her are accepted as normal by the inhabitants of the small town. The nightmares she has experienced intermittently since she was a child return to haunt her, but now they are more substantial. Dorian attracts her in more than a lustful way, their interactions seem to bring about an electrical connectivity.
Morgan must learn about the past, and choose her future. Dorian’s task is to help her understand what is required of her, and smooth her path to using her talents. Only Dorian knows how disastrous it will be if they give in to their longing for each before Morgan truly understands the situation.
This book drew me in from the beginning. I felt comfortable and relaxed as I read page after page. I empathized with both Morgan and Dorian and the history behind the characters unfolded as the book evolved. Everything I needed for a great read was presented to me. The good, the bad and the mysterious. Food sounded comforting and appetizing, but it blended into the scene and was not presented as a bare description. Love scenes came naturally. Magic and fantasy which had me looking over my shoulder to see if the purple people were behind me. All these things made me forget where I actually was. Instead I went with Morgan as she discovered her unknown past, and sympathized with Dorian as he tried to come to terms with this beautiful woman who had erupted into his life.
I would have read The Shoppe of Spells in one go but life intervened and forced me to break my reading time into three. The last time I refused to put the book down until I’d finished it. It’s rare to find a well written story that is also well edited and with a gorgeous cover. The author did the hard work but has been ably assisted by the publishers representatives. And better still this is the first of a series! Well done Ms Grey. I look forward to the next book in The Gatekeepers series.
January 22, 2012
I was drawn into this story and I'm already wanting to jump into the next installment of The Gatekeepers. The Shoppe of Spells makes you wish for such magic and a town like Ruthorford to live in. And Dorian?.....sigh.....yes please. A real keeper.
October 28, 2011
Wonderful story. I couldn't put it down. If you're looking for a story with love, turmoil and a lot of magic, check this one out. I'm anxious for the next installment.
January 21, 2012
This is the re-packaged release of THE SHOPPE OF SPELLS. I hope you love the new cover as much as I do!
March 8, 2012
The Shoppe of Spells by Shanon Grey is a well written piece that plays within the new, and fast growing genre of "Supernatural Romance".
For audio review please check out my podcast Literary Wasteland: http://tinyurl.com/83cscb8
I was lucky enough to have been chosen to review this novel after winning the "Goodreads Giveaway" that was posted. I havne't dabbled too much in the supernatural romance, or any romance genre for that matter in almost all my years of reading, however I've alway been open to trying.
The Shoppe of Spells has several exquisit features to it, however there are also many things that I feel needs work.
One of the most important things that I look for in all the novels I read are very well rounded and developed characters. Shanon nailed this. The main characters of Morgan and Dorian are incredibly well developed, and really pull the reader into the world that she has crafted. The characters are very real, very believable, and really set the pace for the rest of the story. It was becuase of this character development that I wanted to continue reading, wanted to find out what happened, and cared about how the plot affected the characters. Even many of the minor characters, Morgan's family and Jenn (Morgan's best friend) were very well developed as well...which is even more rare to find!
Shanon's writing style is incredibly compelling and very descriptive. Her words and phrases allow a reader to paint an easy mental picture of the surroundings of The Shoppe of Spells, and breathe an incredible amount of life into this small, fictional village.
Though her genre and some of the ideas behind the story isn't exactly new or unseen, little elements she adds in definitely are. For example, there are small creatures that pop up in the story called the Gulatega, which are other dimensional beings that seep the life from humans. You can tell that there was much thought put into each aspect of the novel.
As far as the romance goes, I'm pleased to say that it was not overbearing in any way. There was one aspect when the two were together that seemed a little implausable, however it was all tastefully done. The focus of the novel not surrounding on the more carnal segments of the relationships, rather than the personal. Also, I must note, I am a man, so reading about very romantic or emotional characters is very different for me. So as the female audience my thrive on this aspect of the book, it made me ask myself if people in real life really are as emotional as I read in this book.
However, as well written, and original as this book is, it does have it's issues.
Even though we have our well developed characters and setting that they play within, the story lacks two main cores to keeping readers glued to the pages.
The first is that it lacks a really solid antagonist. The first one hundred pages of the novel really build the basis of believability to the world they exist in. But when conflict is introduced to our characters, it is almost as an afterthought. When we are introduced to the antagonist and his red herring, the issues between them and Morgan are very quickly, and anti-climatically resolved.
Which brings me to my second piece I feel the book lacks, a really solid conflict with said antagonist. A woman is kidnapped, brutally raped, and beaten in this book...and only a few paragraphs were dedicated to this, and a resolution to these few paragraphs given almost instantly. Morgan is kidnapped and drugged for days in one part of this book, and within a few pages the slate is wiped clean and the character acts as if nothing happened.
There is no struggle for the characters, there is no suspense built up for the readers. It is simple cause and instant effect. Good guys win, bad guys lose.
What I would have liked to have seen, and this is more from an editing perspective, is to have the conflict spread out through the entire book. Build my curiosity until I would have been dying to know how our characters escape from their life threatening predicament.
As for the end, once I found out that each book in the series was a stand alone novel focusing around different characters, and not a continuation of Morgan and Dorian's adventures I felt the end was completely fitting. It sums up the characters well, and puts the perfect closure to their story.
Though with everything above being said, this book was enjoyable to read, and when the second one comes out I would be interested in reading that, if only to see where she takes the characters. I definitely recommend this one to fans of the supernatural romance genre, and for those who are looking for something a little new.
For audio review please check out my podcast Literary Wasteland: http://tinyurl.com/83cscb8
I was lucky enough to have been chosen to review this novel after winning the "Goodreads Giveaway" that was posted. I havne't dabbled too much in the supernatural romance, or any romance genre for that matter in almost all my years of reading, however I've alway been open to trying.
The Shoppe of Spells has several exquisit features to it, however there are also many things that I feel needs work.
One of the most important things that I look for in all the novels I read are very well rounded and developed characters. Shanon nailed this. The main characters of Morgan and Dorian are incredibly well developed, and really pull the reader into the world that she has crafted. The characters are very real, very believable, and really set the pace for the rest of the story. It was becuase of this character development that I wanted to continue reading, wanted to find out what happened, and cared about how the plot affected the characters. Even many of the minor characters, Morgan's family and Jenn (Morgan's best friend) were very well developed as well...which is even more rare to find!
Shanon's writing style is incredibly compelling and very descriptive. Her words and phrases allow a reader to paint an easy mental picture of the surroundings of The Shoppe of Spells, and breathe an incredible amount of life into this small, fictional village.
Though her genre and some of the ideas behind the story isn't exactly new or unseen, little elements she adds in definitely are. For example, there are small creatures that pop up in the story called the Gulatega, which are other dimensional beings that seep the life from humans. You can tell that there was much thought put into each aspect of the novel.
As far as the romance goes, I'm pleased to say that it was not overbearing in any way. There was one aspect when the two were together that seemed a little implausable, however it was all tastefully done. The focus of the novel not surrounding on the more carnal segments of the relationships, rather than the personal. Also, I must note, I am a man, so reading about very romantic or emotional characters is very different for me. So as the female audience my thrive on this aspect of the book, it made me ask myself if people in real life really are as emotional as I read in this book.
However, as well written, and original as this book is, it does have it's issues.
Even though we have our well developed characters and setting that they play within, the story lacks two main cores to keeping readers glued to the pages.
The first is that it lacks a really solid antagonist. The first one hundred pages of the novel really build the basis of believability to the world they exist in. But when conflict is introduced to our characters, it is almost as an afterthought. When we are introduced to the antagonist and his red herring, the issues between them and Morgan are very quickly, and anti-climatically resolved.
Which brings me to my second piece I feel the book lacks, a really solid conflict with said antagonist. A woman is kidnapped, brutally raped, and beaten in this book...and only a few paragraphs were dedicated to this, and a resolution to these few paragraphs given almost instantly. Morgan is kidnapped and drugged for days in one part of this book, and within a few pages the slate is wiped clean and the character acts as if nothing happened.
There is no struggle for the characters, there is no suspense built up for the readers. It is simple cause and instant effect. Good guys win, bad guys lose.
What I would have liked to have seen, and this is more from an editing perspective, is to have the conflict spread out through the entire book. Build my curiosity until I would have been dying to know how our characters escape from their life threatening predicament.
As for the end, once I found out that each book in the series was a stand alone novel focusing around different characters, and not a continuation of Morgan and Dorian's adventures I felt the end was completely fitting. It sums up the characters well, and puts the perfect closure to their story.
Though with everything above being said, this book was enjoyable to read, and when the second one comes out I would be interested in reading that, if only to see where she takes the characters. I definitely recommend this one to fans of the supernatural romance genre, and for those who are looking for something a little new.
May 3, 2015
As a basic piece of fluffy entertainment I generally enjoyed this. The writing was pretty good and, though I noticed a few typos, it was fairly well edited. I liked both the main characters and Rutherford, GA sounds like the kind of place I would love to live. I did have a couple problems with the plot, however. These may not be the sort of thing that bother everyone. I'll just put that out there at the forefront. But I was annoyed.
First, I just didn't understand the logic of the bio parents. They were happy with their lives, even if it was a rough life. On having a daughter born with the same abilities they choose to give her up for adoption with the expectation that at twenty-five(ish) they'll invite her home and teach her everything she needs to know to take over for them. (Seriously? If you're happy, why wouldn't your daughter be?) They then take in a ward who they train all through his childhood, but as an adult he barely knows everything he needs to know to take over the family duty. Thus, inferring that a lifetime of training really is necessary to do the job. (So how was Morgan supposed to catch up?) What's more, the abilities she was born with didn't go away once she was put up for adoption. So they condemned her to a life as an outsider with no one to turn to for answers or explanations. NONE OF THAT MAKES ANY SENSE! Why would you do that to her? So, right off the bat I'm lost.
Second, I always have a little bit of a problem with story-lines based on the formula of 'I'm a male so I have ability X. You're a female, so you have ability Y. Together we have super XY abilities.' I tend to spend a lot of time wondering how, exactly, those symbiotic abilities would develop in the first plea. Combine that with the whole paired mate element and I'm extra sceptical. It felt very much like any two moon touched individuals who got within close proximity would be attracted like magnets, regardless of their personality, personal wishes, etc. Certainly Ian inferred this to be true. How not romantic is that?
Third, there didn't seem to be a beginning, middle and end. I don't mean the book ended on a cliffhanger or anything. It didn't. But it felt very much like Morgan found out she was adopted, met dorian and then a lot of random things happened until they finally fell in love. I mean, what did Rob and all of his drama have to do with the rest of the plot, for example? I couldn't pick out a single plot peak that felt like it marked the culmination of the action that afterwards tapered toward an ending of any sorts, if you know what I mean. It wasn't necessarily boring, but I just kept waiting for the plot to take off and indicate what THE barrier to overcome would be...then kept waiting and waiting.
Lastly, everyone was just so darned pleasant all of the time. All parents are gloriously loving. All friends are loyal, dependable BFFs. All neighbours are friendly and helpful. The main characters flawlessly go out of their way to befriend the weak and help the needy (who then go on to become more lovely friends). There were bad things that happened in the book, yes. There was a bad guy, who in the end wasn't all that bad, yes. But everywhere else the readerly looked there was an unrelenting feel-good factor that felt incredibly unrealistic. This always irks me. I know I'm probably on my own on this one, but there you have it.
Again, as pure entertainment the book is pretty good. I just had to set some of my expectations aside to enjoy it. Some of those are personal to me and others won't share them, so I don't really have any problem recommending the book. Depends on the reader really.
First, I just didn't understand the logic of the bio parents. They were happy with their lives, even if it was a rough life. On having a daughter born with the same abilities they choose to give her up for adoption with the expectation that at twenty-five(ish) they'll invite her home and teach her everything she needs to know to take over for them. (Seriously? If you're happy, why wouldn't your daughter be?) They then take in a ward who they train all through his childhood, but as an adult he barely knows everything he needs to know to take over the family duty. Thus, inferring that a lifetime of training really is necessary to do the job. (So how was Morgan supposed to catch up?) What's more, the abilities she was born with didn't go away once she was put up for adoption. So they condemned her to a life as an outsider with no one to turn to for answers or explanations. NONE OF THAT MAKES ANY SENSE! Why would you do that to her? So, right off the bat I'm lost.
Second, I always have a little bit of a problem with story-lines based on the formula of 'I'm a male so I have ability X. You're a female, so you have ability Y. Together we have super XY abilities.' I tend to spend a lot of time wondering how, exactly, those symbiotic abilities would develop in the first plea. Combine that with the whole paired mate element and I'm extra sceptical. It felt very much like any two moon touched individuals who got within close proximity would be attracted like magnets, regardless of their personality, personal wishes, etc. Certainly Ian inferred this to be true. How not romantic is that?
Third, there didn't seem to be a beginning, middle and end. I don't mean the book ended on a cliffhanger or anything. It didn't. But it felt very much like Morgan found out she was adopted, met dorian and then a lot of random things happened until they finally fell in love. I mean, what did Rob and all of his drama have to do with the rest of the plot, for example? I couldn't pick out a single plot peak that felt like it marked the culmination of the action that afterwards tapered toward an ending of any sorts, if you know what I mean. It wasn't necessarily boring, but I just kept waiting for the plot to take off and indicate what THE barrier to overcome would be...then kept waiting and waiting.
Lastly, everyone was just so darned pleasant all of the time. All parents are gloriously loving. All friends are loyal, dependable BFFs. All neighbours are friendly and helpful. The main characters flawlessly go out of their way to befriend the weak and help the needy (who then go on to become more lovely friends). There were bad things that happened in the book, yes. There was a bad guy, who in the end wasn't all that bad, yes. But everywhere else the readerly looked there was an unrelenting feel-good factor that felt incredibly unrealistic. This always irks me. I know I'm probably on my own on this one, but there you have it.
Again, as pure entertainment the book is pretty good. I just had to set some of my expectations aside to enjoy it. Some of those are personal to me and others won't share them, so I don't really have any problem recommending the book. Depends on the reader really.
October 20, 2013
Shanon Grey has done a marvelous job of creating a unique and mysterious town - Rutherford. Her characters come to life in The Shoppe of Spells, endearing themselves almost from page one. The story is unique and fascinating, weaving a spell that kept me turning the pages, almost as if I was in a trance. I couldn't stop reading until I knew what happened next...and next...and next. I didn't think I would like the genre, but she writes so well I got caught up in it. It was almost like I was a part of the town.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in her series. She definitely piqued my interest. Thanks, Shanon. Keep up the great work!
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in her series. She definitely piqued my interest. Thanks, Shanon. Keep up the great work!
November 26, 2011
I love the new cover!! This is a great book. Not your average paranormal. You'll be swept away to the small town of Ruthorford, GA, fall in love with the hero - Dorian - and be surprised along the way. A wonderful story that will keep you flipping pages and then wonder how long you'll have to wait for the second - Meadows Keep.
August 22, 2011
Loved this book. A wonderful story in an unforgettable town that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
February 6, 2012
I enjoyed this novel. Different premise than I expected, but still very good. I look forward to reading more from this author.
September 13, 2011
review soon
October 13, 2011
The Shoppe Of Spells introduces us to the world of Ruthorford, GA. A unique community that centers around a quaint shop of herbs, candles and a bit of magic. Morgan has just found out she is co-owner of the shop after her birth parents die. The shock of finding out she was adopted and never told of her lineage is one thing but to also find she now owns and needs to make decisions regarding a store in the middle of no where Georgia is quite another. Taking a leap of faith Morgan head to GA to find out what she can and to meet the co-owner of the shop, Dorian, who was a ward of her birth parents.
Dorian knows he has to take things slow with Morgan. She doesn’t know or understand the implications of coming to meet him or the instant attraction that arcs between them. Seemingly betraying his erratic inner turmoil, he comes off as slightly rude and Morgan isn’t sure what to make of him. Dorian will need to make her see her place with there, with him, and that the things of her nightmares are not only real, but living among them. Only they together can make them recede.
The Shoppe Of Spells gives the reader a completely unique story line that I had never encountered before. I loved the twists and turns it took and found the story as a whole to be very engaging. It was easy to get lost in the world Shanon built with every chapter and I kept reading hoping for more information then I think Shanon was willing to give so soon in a series.
The aura of mystery surrounding the law firm that informed Morgan of her birth rights was built up but never resolved. I wanted to know more about its shadowy characters and what they spent all their time doing. I think in future books this will probably be dealt with more thoroughly but I wanted at least a basic understanding in this book and I found I didn’t really get that.
Morgan and Dorian played off each other quite well and I enjoyed them as a couple. I found Dorian’s restraint with Morgan to be commendable but I thought he should also just tell Morgan what was going on. It felt like he didn’t think she could handle everything and that she’d fold under the pressure. I understood Morgan to be quite capable and think she could easily handle whatever was thrown at her. Sure, there is going to be moments of questioning, but overall she did well with what she was given. I think it could have saved them a lot of time had Dorian just be upfront with her. I think that made the book drag a bit. There were entire sections I thought…JUST TELL HER SOMETHING USEFUL…so we could get on with it.
The sex scenes in this one sizzled but didn’t explode. Those readers that don’t like a ton of description will enjoy this one I think. I liked the idea of the magically charged items reacting to their attraction. Especially in the grotto scene…hehe read it :) . There were times I didn’t feel the connection I think the author was trying to convey, but nonetheless, I was on board with their attraction and the sexual tension that crackled between them whenever they were in a room together.
There were a lot of things going on throughout the book…several story lines and set up for future books I’m sure. There are a array of secondary characters all centering around this small town and the magic that exists there. I am looking forward to Jasmines story simply because I thought for sure I was going to hate her from the get go. Her role in this book did a complete 180 and by the end I was feeling bad for her. I have an inkling she has more power then she thinks and only needs to find the right…”person”…to complete the arc within her.
The Shoppe Of Spells is a good love story with a slight paranormal twist. Readers will enjoy learning about Ruthorford and all the characters is has to offer!Shanon Grey has a good starting point in this one and I look forward to her expansion with her next installment!
I give The Shoppe Of Spells by Shanon Grey 3.50 stars!
Dorian knows he has to take things slow with Morgan. She doesn’t know or understand the implications of coming to meet him or the instant attraction that arcs between them. Seemingly betraying his erratic inner turmoil, he comes off as slightly rude and Morgan isn’t sure what to make of him. Dorian will need to make her see her place with there, with him, and that the things of her nightmares are not only real, but living among them. Only they together can make them recede.
The Shoppe Of Spells gives the reader a completely unique story line that I had never encountered before. I loved the twists and turns it took and found the story as a whole to be very engaging. It was easy to get lost in the world Shanon built with every chapter and I kept reading hoping for more information then I think Shanon was willing to give so soon in a series.
The aura of mystery surrounding the law firm that informed Morgan of her birth rights was built up but never resolved. I wanted to know more about its shadowy characters and what they spent all their time doing. I think in future books this will probably be dealt with more thoroughly but I wanted at least a basic understanding in this book and I found I didn’t really get that.
Morgan and Dorian played off each other quite well and I enjoyed them as a couple. I found Dorian’s restraint with Morgan to be commendable but I thought he should also just tell Morgan what was going on. It felt like he didn’t think she could handle everything and that she’d fold under the pressure. I understood Morgan to be quite capable and think she could easily handle whatever was thrown at her. Sure, there is going to be moments of questioning, but overall she did well with what she was given. I think it could have saved them a lot of time had Dorian just be upfront with her. I think that made the book drag a bit. There were entire sections I thought…JUST TELL HER SOMETHING USEFUL…so we could get on with it.
The sex scenes in this one sizzled but didn’t explode. Those readers that don’t like a ton of description will enjoy this one I think. I liked the idea of the magically charged items reacting to their attraction. Especially in the grotto scene…hehe read it :) . There were times I didn’t feel the connection I think the author was trying to convey, but nonetheless, I was on board with their attraction and the sexual tension that crackled between them whenever they were in a room together.
There were a lot of things going on throughout the book…several story lines and set up for future books I’m sure. There are a array of secondary characters all centering around this small town and the magic that exists there. I am looking forward to Jasmines story simply because I thought for sure I was going to hate her from the get go. Her role in this book did a complete 180 and by the end I was feeling bad for her. I have an inkling she has more power then she thinks and only needs to find the right…”person”…to complete the arc within her.
The Shoppe Of Spells is a good love story with a slight paranormal twist. Readers will enjoy learning about Ruthorford and all the characters is has to offer!Shanon Grey has a good starting point in this one and I look forward to her expansion with her next installment!
I give The Shoppe Of Spells by Shanon Grey 3.50 stars!
April 28, 2012
“A beautiful prison is still a prison.”
That’s how Morgan first felt when she found herself in the lush gardens of her new “home”. She’s been through a lot in a short period of time. She’s lost her job, broken up with her boyfriend, learned she was adopted and that her birth parents just died, inherited a herb/home remedy shop, and she is now expected to live in this new place and have this new life. Oh yeah, and this new life includes inter-dimensional creature removal where this creature causes headaches, confusion and memory loss to humans, sorting of bringing them a sort of dementia. Regular humans can’t see these creatures; Morgan has a genetic inheritance in her vision that allows them to be seen. The only trick is that she must work in tandem with Dorian to achieve the goal.
Overall I can say that I enjoyed this story. It was a unique storyline that I’ve not encountered before. The main character, Morgan, was very likeable and I enjoyed getting to know her. She is a twenty six year old woman who has had a tough time but you can sense strength in her. She stands up for the things she believes in and the care she has for her family and friends is a great asset to her personality. Her love interest, Dorian, was also quite likeable. I actually fancy him as the spitting image of Zachary Quinto. He’s kind of nerdy, incredibly sexy, very intelligent, and despite his best efforts he is falling for Morgan.
This book had quite a large cast of characters, which normally would irk me to try and keep everyone straight. But the author, Shanon Grey, does a wonderful job of keeping everything organized and in order. Neighbors, friends, ex-boyfriends, and adversaries all were richly written and I felt like I got to know them all. They really helped enrich the story and made everything feel so much more real. Even the dog and cat in the story felt like integral parts of the plotline. I think that takes some wonderful talent and skill to be able to pull that off effectively.
I must admit when I first started thinking about this book, before I read it, I was a bit wary about the whole idea of portals. I thought it was going to feel like a sci-fi story, which I am not normally a fan of. But that is really not the case! The relationships between the characters, the growth of Morgan… everything felt very natural and real. The romance had a slow and steady build and I was definitely rooting for Morgan and Dorian to get together. There are a few curveballs thrown at you in this storyline that you don’t really see coming, and it helped move everything along. I think this story would appeal to a large audience since there are so many different facets within.
That’s how Morgan first felt when she found herself in the lush gardens of her new “home”. She’s been through a lot in a short period of time. She’s lost her job, broken up with her boyfriend, learned she was adopted and that her birth parents just died, inherited a herb/home remedy shop, and she is now expected to live in this new place and have this new life. Oh yeah, and this new life includes inter-dimensional creature removal where this creature causes headaches, confusion and memory loss to humans, sorting of bringing them a sort of dementia. Regular humans can’t see these creatures; Morgan has a genetic inheritance in her vision that allows them to be seen. The only trick is that she must work in tandem with Dorian to achieve the goal.
Overall I can say that I enjoyed this story. It was a unique storyline that I’ve not encountered before. The main character, Morgan, was very likeable and I enjoyed getting to know her. She is a twenty six year old woman who has had a tough time but you can sense strength in her. She stands up for the things she believes in and the care she has for her family and friends is a great asset to her personality. Her love interest, Dorian, was also quite likeable. I actually fancy him as the spitting image of Zachary Quinto. He’s kind of nerdy, incredibly sexy, very intelligent, and despite his best efforts he is falling for Morgan.
This book had quite a large cast of characters, which normally would irk me to try and keep everyone straight. But the author, Shanon Grey, does a wonderful job of keeping everything organized and in order. Neighbors, friends, ex-boyfriends, and adversaries all were richly written and I felt like I got to know them all. They really helped enrich the story and made everything feel so much more real. Even the dog and cat in the story felt like integral parts of the plotline. I think that takes some wonderful talent and skill to be able to pull that off effectively.
I must admit when I first started thinking about this book, before I read it, I was a bit wary about the whole idea of portals. I thought it was going to feel like a sci-fi story, which I am not normally a fan of. But that is really not the case! The relationships between the characters, the growth of Morgan… everything felt very natural and real. The romance had a slow and steady build and I was definitely rooting for Morgan and Dorian to get together. There are a few curveballs thrown at you in this storyline that you don’t really see coming, and it helped move everything along. I think this story would appeal to a large audience since there are so many different facets within.
July 16, 2012
This was a very interesting read. I wasn’t sure what to expect since it is not my typical type of book I would pick up. I saw a lot of quotes from Shanon on Twitter and those quotes from the book are what led me to pick up this book. I am glad I did. It was a very neat story. Morgan was thrown into a life she never thought she would be living. She didn’t learn until she was an adult that she was adopted after her birth parents passed away leaving her a lot to learn about. She discovered she held certain “powers” that when combined with Dorian, could change lives.
I thought Shanon’s writing was very easy to follow and I loved the way she described her settings. I could always smell the herbs she spoke about and feel the electricity that happened between Dorian and Morgan. Shanon wrote a magical story that was very easy to believe could really happen. Dorian and Morgan’s romance was very slow to build, which was good in this case, as it was more believable, even if the physical chemistry they had was not. They didn’t act on that chemistry which was nice and fit the story and the characters very well. I really enjoyed how the town of Rutherford stuck together as did Morgan’s family and friends when things went downhill. I look forward to the next book in the series!
I thought Shanon’s writing was very easy to follow and I loved the way she described her settings. I could always smell the herbs she spoke about and feel the electricity that happened between Dorian and Morgan. Shanon wrote a magical story that was very easy to believe could really happen. Dorian and Morgan’s romance was very slow to build, which was good in this case, as it was more believable, even if the physical chemistry they had was not. They didn’t act on that chemistry which was nice and fit the story and the characters very well. I really enjoyed how the town of Rutherford stuck together as did Morgan’s family and friends when things went downhill. I look forward to the next book in the series!
September 8, 2013
No spoilers...
Squeee!
Well! It's not often that I find an author that I get excited about, but I just have! Yes, I've added Ms. Shanon Grey book The Shoppe of Spells to my favorites shelf, as this warm and heart lifting book will be one that I will read again for sure.
Why did I like it: You know those books that you finish that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? Yes? Well this book did that for me. Ms Grey can draw you a picture in your minds eye with words that are succinct, and yet she doesn't go on and on about it either. Not only that but Ms Grey makes you want to be there so you can see it for yourself.
This book also reminded me that there really are some lovely people in this world, and it's nice to be reminded of that.
I will definitely be buying and reading the rest of the series!
What I didn't like. Nothing really.
This was a lovely light read.
Squeee!
Well! It's not often that I find an author that I get excited about, but I just have! Yes, I've added Ms. Shanon Grey book The Shoppe of Spells to my favorites shelf, as this warm and heart lifting book will be one that I will read again for sure.
Why did I like it: You know those books that you finish that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? Yes? Well this book did that for me. Ms Grey can draw you a picture in your minds eye with words that are succinct, and yet she doesn't go on and on about it either. Not only that but Ms Grey makes you want to be there so you can see it for yourself.
This book also reminded me that there really are some lovely people in this world, and it's nice to be reminded of that.
I will definitely be buying and reading the rest of the series!
What I didn't like. Nothing really.
This was a lovely light read.
October 26, 2016
Such a disappointment. This is one of those books that takes forever to get anywhere and by the time it does, you no longer care. The plot was lacking, nothing really ever happened, and I can't stand books that are driven by lack of information. The MC finds out she's adopted and goes to find information on who she is and her abilities, but she never really does! She doesn't ask any questions! And Dorian keeps telling her "we'll talk later." He gives her snippets here and there, but that's it. What kind of person would be ok with that? It's frustrating as a reader. Plus the alternating POV's was written badly. The POV's would change mid-paragraph. One minute Dorian would be saying/thinking something and the next it would be Melissa. Is that even the MC's name? I already forgot because that's how little I cared about her.
February 1, 2015
I had wanted to read this book forever. The story sounded intriguing. The title alone hinted at witches, which I love.
It started out strong. I liked the story, the characters and the beautiful setting of this shoppe: a perfect little cottage in a perfect little Georgian town. I wanted to visit this garden and not leave. I wish we could have spent more time there.
But, once we got a bit deeper into the story, I didn't really care for the paranormal side of it. The portal was kinda cool, but I just didn't get the supernatural themes. The creature just didn't seem feasible.
By the end of the book, I didn't really care about anything that was going on. Didn't even finish, but gave two stars because I did make it almost to the end.
It just fizzled out.
It started out strong. I liked the story, the characters and the beautiful setting of this shoppe: a perfect little cottage in a perfect little Georgian town. I wanted to visit this garden and not leave. I wish we could have spent more time there.
But, once we got a bit deeper into the story, I didn't really care for the paranormal side of it. The portal was kinda cool, but I just didn't get the supernatural themes. The creature just didn't seem feasible.
By the end of the book, I didn't really care about anything that was going on. Didn't even finish, but gave two stars because I did make it almost to the end.
It just fizzled out.
April 13, 2012
I had really high hopes for this book, and while I might be willing to give it 2.5 stars, I was mostly pretty disappointed.
Everything about it was just... ok. Nothing was really horrible, but nothing really struck me as well done, or original. The characters were likable enough, the plot functioned, the world-building muddled along... Meh. I don't think I'd go out of my way to spend money on the second one.
(Incidentally, while it seems to have come out of a "real" publisher, the production values of the paper edition felt really self-pub'd. Not a good thing, in this snob's opinion.)
Everything about it was just... ok. Nothing was really horrible, but nothing really struck me as well done, or original. The characters were likable enough, the plot functioned, the world-building muddled along... Meh. I don't think I'd go out of my way to spend money on the second one.
(Incidentally, while it seems to have come out of a "real" publisher, the production values of the paper edition felt really self-pub'd. Not a good thing, in this snob's opinion.)
October 16, 2014
OMG! So I picked this up on one of those whimsical trips to B&N; it was in the recommended section and I had been feeling something paranormal ,but not vampire or werewolves. I figured what the hell!
HOLY CRAP!!! Best Decision EVER!
I can't even pinpoint the details that make this book so good, it just is! Well, I probably could but it would go on forever. It was so well written, I couldn't put it down (My favorite type of book) and read it in one day!
Recommend to everyone!
HOLY CRAP!!! Best Decision EVER!
I can't even pinpoint the details that make this book so good, it just is! Well, I probably could but it would go on forever. It was so well written, I couldn't put it down (My favorite type of book) and read it in one day!
Recommend to everyone!
May 21, 2013
I was captivated from the start. From the electrical connections between Dorian and Morgan to the Gulatiga. Those were pretty creepy and I found myself looking around my feet. Lol. I really enjoyed the romance, magic, and mystery of the entire story. I won't say what, but I'm ready for "Meadows Keep" and see what all happens to some of my favorite characters.
October 1, 2013
This is a very creative, well-written novel with an interesting premise. In fact, it's one of the more creative and original ones that I've read in a while. I loved the magic / otherwordly aspect of it, the suspense kept me up way past my bed time and the central romance was electrifying ;-)
Def. a recommended read!
Def. a recommended read!
July 26, 2012
What a fantastic love story! I was entirely drawn into the tale of Morgan and Dorian. Can't wait to read the next in the series! I highly recommend for everyone who enjoys a great love story. I'll definitely find myself drawn back to this book in the future.
March 17, 2013
A delightful romp of sensory delight. I am a huge fan of the sense of smell, and Ms. Grey does not disappoint. I loved the lush olfactory descriptions. Couple that with some paranormal romance and mystery and I'm a happy camper!
April 20, 2013
Great Cover, enticing title. That's the best of this book. I think it had great potential but for me it just didn't quite make it. Very repetitious, with flat characters. Took way too long to get anywhere. When it did finally arrive, I was glad to be done with it.
July 17, 2013
I was wrapped up around my tablet reading this book. couldn't and wouldn't be drag away from this book.
Paranormal book yes but not vampires and all.
not too many romance just enough to have a story and character.
MYSTERY fiction. .. yes a lot! I liked this book
Paranormal book yes but not vampires and all.
not too many romance just enough to have a story and character.
MYSTERY fiction. .. yes a lot! I liked this book
September 25, 2011
Review to come
October 20, 2011
Surprisingly good. Review to come.
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