Lyra McCauley is a writer and loves fantasy novels, but until she opens a selection from bookstore owner Cullen Drake, she has no idea he's a wizard character who lives a double life inside that volume...or the story's magic will compel her from the edge of depression to adventure, danger, and love.
His gift to Lyra, the Book of Dragonspeir, was actually her copy, misplaced years ago. Lost in her pain following divorce and death, she fails to recognize him as her childhood playmate from the fantasyland. Friendship builds anew. Attraction sparks. But Lyra doubts whether a wizard is capable of love. She's torn--should she protect her fragile heart or risk new love?
Opening the book's cover, she confronts a quest: save Dragonspeir from destruction by the Black Dragon before he utilizes power of August's red moon to expand his strength and overthrow the opposing Imperial Dragon. Lyra accepts the challenge, fearing Cullen will perish if evil wins. Along with magical animal guides, Cullen helps her through many perils, but ultimately Lyra must use her own power...and time is running out.
The magic of nature primes my creative wellspring for writing, watercolor painting, drawing, knitting and sewing. I’m a registered yoga teacher. My personal practice helps weave the mystical into my writing.
After moving from Toledo to Tampa in 2008, I’ve happily transformed into a Floridian, in love with the outdoors year-round. I’m crazy about cycling and hiking. I live with my husband on a large saltwater lagoon from which I kayak through mysterious mangrove tunnels to Tampa Bay. Never have enough days at the beach, scribbling away at stories with my toes wiggling in the sand.
For a FREE ebook sample of her writing, read her historic fantasy short story, LE CIRQUE DE MAGIE, available at Amazonand Smashwords.
I feel bad giving such a low rating and poor review of this book because I think the author was trying really hard to write a quest style fantasy book with a little bit of something for everyone. Unfortunately it didn't work for me for a lot of reasons. On the positive side, the writing was literate and flowed nicely. I liked Lyra and her Aunt as well as a lot of the characters in Dragonspeir. On the negative side, the story was way too long for how much story there was to tell. It didn't engage me very well and I couldn't get emotionally attached to the characters. The oddest thing for me was the romance thread. Lyra would, out of the blue, have thoughts about 'a lifetime with Cullen' or wondering if he could love her when they had just met. Their relationship did not meld at all with the tone of the story. The book had the feel of an animated Disney fairytale. There were a couple of sex scenes thrown into this and it was as disconcerting as watching a Disney movie with your kids and suddenly Snow White and a man take off their clothes and have sex, right in the middle of the singing birds and cute bunnies and deer.
This wondrously magical book is a dream come true for every bookworm I think, it is what we all would love to experience when we enter a bookshop. Lyra, a very sad and disturbed young woman arrives in Florida for her summer break after losing her parents and a divorce and to look after her aunt who is dying of cancer. She enters a bookshop and meets the owner, Cullen who gifts her a book about a land called Dragonspeir. Through this book Lyra is drawn through a portal to this magical land and she gets to meet the four guardians, and so many other magical creatures and she gets told the reason why she was chosen. She is given the task of writing about her visit to Dragonspeir and of her visit to the black dragon who is aiming to overthrow the Golden dragon and the alliance and hence bring the land to an end. Lyra is terrified that if she does not manage to do this well she would lose Cullen, the wizard, who she has fallen in love with. Can Lyra tackle this difficult task expected of her in the short time allotted to her to do this and hence save all the friends she had made apart from Cullen? This was a very enjoyable book which completely captivated me, I particularly loved the pseudodragon Noba and the baby dragon hatchling Yaqsu, they lightened the tale when things got too scary or sad. I definitely want to read more about the adventures of Lyra and Cullen and all the lovely creatures in Dragonspeir.
Fantastic Characters! Well written with relatable personalities and love-able attitudes. The Plot flowed well, and the pace was good. I found the writing style great, with well written out world settings. I loved the originality of this story. Lyra is the only one to defeat the black dragon and the story really draws you in, making you feel as it it is you who must complete this. You've gotta read this!
It was a simple day of just going to a bookstore when Lyra stumbled on Cullen. Lyra thinks he is handsome and charming. But after drinking some of his delicious tea, she quickly realizes he isn't normal and can't shake the feeling she has met him before. Cullen knows what she is feeling and tells her to come back for a book that will explain it all. When Lyra does, she finds that the book and the bookstore are enchanted. She ends up in a beautiful fantasy world named Dragonspeir that is endanger of being taken over by the Black Dragon. And only Lyra can stop him. She must write a book accurately recollected of her time in Dragonspeir and have someone read it before the Red Moon. If she doesn't, the Black Dragon will destroy Dragonspeir. Lyra isn't sure where to begin and if she has the power to do it.
Moore was very nice to have asked me to review this. I jumped on the opportunity because this is book sounded like a fantasy I always had. How incredible would it be to walk into a bookstore to get a book, but instead, the book comes to life for you? I love this. And I love it even more since it is packed with incredible and lovable characters to die for.
Lyra and Cullen have an instant connection in the book right from the first chapter. You can see they were made for each other. Cullen has known Lyra since was younger, but thought he was just a character from the fantasy book she had. Come to find out that book was made for her. Then you had Lyra's sweet Aunt Jean who is battling cancer. Lyra is always looking out for her and Lyra may be ill, but she has a great sense of humor in the book that will make you smile. But she was very tough and not easily frightened. Actually, she knee more about Lyra than Lyra knew about herself.
And the animals, oh boy the animals. This book is full of great talking animals that you will love instantly. My favorite was Noba, the pseudodragon. He was so sweet and adorable and very helpful. Kenzo was a tiger owl that was small, but definitely had a bit of an Napoleon complex. There was a unicorn that was actually quite the badass (that is by far the strangest thing I have said) and many more that make a huge impact on Lyra in the book. I applaud Moore for coming up with this world. It was truly epic.
I liked the story. I loved how we get to see both our world and Dragonspeir. We get an interesting plot in both worlds. Lyra needed to get to the dark realm to learn all she could about the Black Dragon. I like the idea of someone outside of Dragonspeir learning about the "fictional" world so the Black Dragon losses power in his world. Very interesting concept. There also seems to be a bigger connection between the two, but I can't quite put my finger on it. Might be just me.
I did have a little issue with the background stories. As much as I love our human characters, I don't feel like I wanted a little more history. For instance, we have Lyra. She has been recently divorced and finds it hard to tell Cullen what she feels for him. But we never learn what exactly happened between her and her ex-husband. We get a couple of things, he sounded like a jerk who didn't support her. But what was the final straw? Then again, I am sure she didn't want to talk about him. I also wish I knew more about Cullen and what has he been doing while waiting for Lyra.
Also want to mention one character in this book named Revelin that raised some suspicions. He oddly kept running into Lyra and happened to get into her house to help her aunt. He seemed a bit too enthusiastic about reading Lyra's book. He is brought up twice in the book and I can't shake the feeling he is going to have a bigger part in the future. I hope we learn something, anything about him. They are obviously attracted to each other even though Cullen is THE guy, but I feel there is a lot more going on with him and it isn't all just a coincidence.
But even with that, it doesn't take anything away from this story. In fact, it makes me anxious for more to come. So no hindrance at all. Moore created such a great world that it left an impact on me. I was sad when the book ended because I wanted more. I love all the mystery in this book and some may be unsolved, but it leaves a lot to be discovered for book 2, Heritage Avenged, which I am dying for. I loved the romance in the book. There are two steamy scenes that I wanted to last a little longer, but without them, this book is quite PG-13. So if you are a prude, you will be safe. Definitely recommended for those who want an original and beautifully written epic fantasy.
To read this review and others like it check out my site, Urban Fantasy Reviews, at www.ufreviews.com
First off I love the concept of this book. I think just about everyone who is a big reader can understand what I am talking about her. When you find a book you love or a character you love, wouldn't it be so amazing if you could step into that world and actually live in it, or meet your favorite character? This book kind of takes that desire and expands on it. Lyra is a part of this great imaginative world and she is the one who has to save it, and the world exists within a book! In a way the book is kind of a book inside a book. I personally think that this is a really cool way for Moore to create a way where every reader's fantasy of being in a book comes true.
Another strong point in the book for me was the use of animals. I think I have made it pretty clear how much I love animals on this blog, and I love when they make an appearance in books. Anything from someones companion dog who has nothing magical about them, to the animals in this book, who are some of the coolest characters themselves; made from fantasy and with their own personalities to boot!
I think the really cool thing about the plot in the book was that really their were kind of two plots. One in Lyra's world and one in the world that takes place inside of the book. But the two plots worked so well together in tandem, because obviously Lyra was a part of both of them. I think often times when you have something like this book, that is a little bit more complicated on the plot side, as a reader you can sometimes feel like you are missing out on some of the details or that too much is going on and you can't follow the storyline, but this was no a problem at all in Moore's book. She made everything about both worlds very easy to understand and fun for the reader to follow along with.
I really enjoyed the tone throughout the book. I thought the writing in the book was really good, and enjoyable. I thought the pace was just right, nothing felt rushed and nothing felt to slow (and I hate when things are slow so that made me really happy). I like that nothing was overly serious throughout the entire book, there were moments that were funny and felt organic, and of course there were moments of seriousness, but it was good to have those funny moment to break up the intensity.
I think the only thing I can really talk about that I wish might have been a little bit different is the backstory. Sometimes when I read a book I feel like the author info dumps all the back story in the first couple chapters and it kind of turns me off to a book. But in this book I wish I had known more of the backstory for the characters. But then again this is book one, so hopefully with the next books you will get to learn more and more about the characters (which is of course always a strong possibility).
Overall I really thought that the book was a solid book all around. I think it is one of those books that would be enjoyed by a wide range of readers, there is definitely something in this book for epic fantasy readers, I think the urban fantasy crowd could also easily enjoy this book, and I also believe that the paranormal romance readers could find something in this book to enjoy as well. So if you are looking for something new, and you have ever wished that you could be apart of a book, then you should check out this book.
Opening the book’s cover, she confronts a quest: save Dragonspeir from destruction by the Black Dragon before he utilizes power of August’s red moon to expand his strength and overthrow the opposing Imperial Dragon. Lyra accepts the challenge, fearing Cullen will perish if evil wins. Along with magical animal guides, Cullen helps her through many perils, but ultimately Lyra must use her own power…and time is running out"
Moore truly created an enchated fantasy world, filled with dragons, talking tortoises, fairies, and you name it... it probably makes an appearance at least once. Yet, the fantasy world feels so natural and never feels like its overwhelming the story, but rather rising to new experiences not yet explored. The main character Lyra is a lost puppy and Cullen rescue's her from her own distress and she learns to love again. Although set in a fantasy world, I would definitely qualify this book as a romance first, before fantasy. Overall, it was an interesting read, and there were times when I was on the seat of my chair wondering what would happen next.
Unfortunately, that feeling did not last the entire book. The climax of the book really comes about 3/4 of the way through and then tapers off. The pace seemed off for me, and the urgency of finishing the "quest" felt plastered on at the end, as the main character had to also contend with her normal day to day routines. In honesty, I struggle to finish the last few chapters, simply because there were no more questions hanging in the air for me and all the danger felt gone, depleted or minimal. It would have made for a much more interesting ending for example, if Lyra had failed at her task as opposed to finishing it in the nick of time. But that is purely my opinion. It felt too predictive at the end.
Lyra McCauley went to spend time with her aunt while her aunt had cancer treatment. While there she decided to stop in at the book store in town and met Cullen Drake. The book store was no ordinary store it moved and things changed inside. Cullen showed Lyra a book from her childhood and took her to the realm of Dragonspeir, Alliance of the Imperial Dragon. Where she learned she was a scribe and was needed to go on a journey and write about it to save Dragonspeir . This journey not only showed her what true love was but also showed her how to use the power with in her that she did not know she had. It's a wonderful fantasy romance and I can't wait to read the next book. I found myself engrossed in the book and felt like I could see everything as it happened.
This story is full of imagery, you can really imagine yourself walking around the land of Dragonspeir. My favorite part was when Lyra starts to remember about this wonderful land and really starts to engage with the other characters. The whole concept of a land that has to have someone write the story to defeat the evil that is trying to take over the land really is unique way to go with the story. I truly enjoy the story.
Lyra Macaulay is a hero we can all identify with, smart and determined, but reeling over the deaths of her parents and a nasty divorce. She travels north to visit her ailing Aunt and recuperate. Then.... things happen. Fascinating, magical, exciting, romantic, scary things. I don't want to give away any of the plot, but this is a quest fantasy of the highest order. Well written, original and captivating. I read the whole thing in two days. I plan to pick up the rest of the series soon!
I loved everything about this book. Cullen and Lyra were believable in any world! The story moved from one plot to another smoothly, without problem. The beings of Dragonspeir were immensely interesting and entertaining. I especially liked Noba and Yasqu. I will read the rest of this series. This book sucked me in and now I want the rest!
This is a great book. My ultimate fantasy come true -- to be able to enter the world of the book I am reading and becoming part of the story. And a nice love story thrown in. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Dragonspeir is rich with imagery and I can easily picture myself walking the same paths as Lyra, Cullen, and her animal guides. The characters are well developed and relatable and I’m sure you’ll be rooting for Lyra and Cullen like I was. I’m putting this author on my watch list!
I'm very picky with my fantasy reading, and this one really had me hooked. Love reading about Lyra's balance to live in two worlds. All the adventure in the magical world and her love affair with Cullen. Great and exciting read.
What an amazing book!! I absolutely loved this story, I'm really looking forward to reading the next one. Such a magical world and excellent characters!
Amazing writing and interesting characters. Join Lyra and Cullen on there awesome adventure to save Dragonspeir. Will Lyra learn to love and trust again. Beautiful start to amazing series.
When I started reading this book I was really intrigued, wondering what it was about. But, as I kept on reading I was drawn in and couldn't put it down!! I absolutely loved it! Everything was so imaginative! I loved all the "good" characters 😏 , especially Cullen and Lyra! Marsha Moore is a very good writer/author. She made the story so real and believable that you felt like you were literally right there in the story!! She created such detailed and believable characters and settings/places both real and magical!! Lyra comes back home to take care of her ailing Aunt and while doing so finds a unique book store. The moment she walks through the door her life changes forever and nothing will ever be the same!! This is a book/story is most definitely deserving of a 5🌟 rating
Awesomely Enchanting book! This story is beautifully wriitten and exciting to read. I didn't want to put it down. I can not wait to find out if Cullen and Lyra find their happily ever after and follow along with them on their next adventure.
Make no mistake – Marsha A. Moore can write well. Anyone who writes sentences like “Olive toads sat motionless on moss” and says of a plain of grass “Not one blade moved” deserves attention, and I enjoyed her opening chapters without reservation. The 5* review title that formed in my head at that point was “From Needful Things into Narnia: The Magic of Marsha Moore”. The difficulties for me, however, began in chapter 5 when we passed through the gateway into Dragonspeir and it turned out not to be Narnia at all. It was Wonderland on steroids, a kind of drug-induced Disneyland that grabbed my suspended disbelief and smacked me round the face with it. Jonathan Swift’s sensible advice about gradualism flew out of the magic casement so fast I admit I was nearly unseated at that point. However, I reminded myself of the quality of chapters 1-4 and remained in the saddle. But it was when Alice turned randy and started feeling the erect manhood of the horny wizard I’d previously assumed was a wise old father figure rather like Moses or Merlin that I really came unstuck. I had nothing to hold on to any more – unlike the heroine of the story. So I freely admit the fault may be mine. I may be set in my ways and simply unprepared for a genre fusion of Disney cartoon fantasy with steamy sex. If that’s what you’re looking for, this is the book for you. And the premise was so promising… It’s probably me. It’s definitely me. I recommend you read it yourself and make up your own mind!
I first came across this author with her book Witches Moonstone Locket, and I promised myself there and then I would read more work from this talented author.
Seeking a scribe is a true fantasy tale, dragons, familiars, wizards, guardians and magic. It has everything needed to sate those magical cravings and is written in a wonderful and captivating style.
The story follows the protagonist Lyra, wrought with grief from recent events she visits her aunt, who is fighting cancer. There she finds a whole new world of mystery and enchantment, a place which has been waiting for her for a very long time. Only she can save the magical world of Dragonspeir she found herself welcomed into, but, as they usually do, forces conspire to ensure she fails.
I loved the characters within this book, and I thought the developing relationship between Lyra and Cullen was done well. I am not really a reader of erotica, so I appreciated the subtle undertones and implications made as to the relationship as things get more heated between them. I loved the mystical characters, and I look forward to picking up the next book in the series.
Lyra McCauley is a Literature professor in Florida. It is her summer break and she will be spending the summer with her aunt Jean, who is ill with cancer and trying to write a fantasy novel. Lyra happened upon an old bookstore in which it happened to be magical. This bookstore would appear in different locations. The owner of the bookstore is actually a Wizard from Dragonspier and he plays a role in Lyra's life. When she was young she used to visit Dragonspier and its up to Drake Cullen to show her the book so that she as the scribe can help out animals that live in Dragonspier. Lyra goes on many adventures to Dragonspier and must scribe her accounts into a manuscript. She must complete this quest and have someone read her book so that the Dark Dragons power will diminish.
I bought this ebook based on a brief description. I could not be more surprised and delighted with this story. I guarantee I will read the rest of the series of the Enchanted Bookstore. Marsha Moore has created an environment of fantasy that makes me wish it were real and that I could live there. She presents the reader with real emotions and enchanted animals and magic touching the world of the main character Lyra whose life is based in the 'real' world. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and the writing by Marsha Moore kept me absorbed in the world she created.
If someone enjoys fantasy and romance this is the book for them. If you enjoy dragons and talking bucks and sprites this is the book for you.
This book featured some of the big no-nos aspiring writers are advised to avoid, such as suddenly changing POV within a chapter (with no line break or other distinguishing feature to warn the reader), introducing characters that serve no purpose (one featured twice before simply never being mentioned again), and describing life's mundane events in detail in an attempt to instil a sense of reality (eg shopping, making a cup of tea, describing what is on a dinner plate). This book needed better pacing, and increased tension in parts. It was a worthwhile read for me...as a learning exercise.
A mixed bag here with an enchanting tale and unique plot but it felt like the author was trying too hard. The characters were difficult to relate to or bond with as we are told nearly every moment of each day and are frequently reminded of the tragic points in Lyra's past (I lost count how many times the divorce was mentioned) only to suddenly have her swooning over Cullen. It felt like every detail had to be described which took away from the story. However, I loved the world building and the variety of creatures.
I enjoyed this book, but I felt like the author couldn't decide whether it was a YA or an adult book. At times the dialogue seemed immature. What I did like was the world Moore created, filled with great characters, especially dragons.
This book is a "Fantasy/Romance" novel. All I can say is I'm glad it was free on my kindle or I'd have been unhappy about spending money on it. I will not be reading any of the others in the series.
I was glued to the story and can't wait to get the next book. I need to find out who the long haired man was and who is the butterfly. I'm sure I will figure it out along the way. Love the suspense.
An enjoyable reading experience. A look at life's experiences through the eyes of a middle aged woman who never gave up on fantasy and miracles. Join Adalyra and Cullen on a fantastic journey through fairies, dragons, wizards and all intween.
I enjoyed this book. It was an interesting story. Yasqu, the baby dragon, and Noba, the pseudo-dragon were my favorite characters. I would recommend this story to anyone over 18 that enjoys fantasy.
I completely fell in love with this series, and as much as I wanted to see how it would end, I was sorry when it did. What a beautiful magical tale full of a wide assortment of magical people and creatures. This series does involve an investment of quite a number of hours, but trust me, they are well-spent and you will never regret spending them!
I very highly recommend this series to all fantasy lovers and everyone else, too! Five stars just aren't enough!