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A Heart of Bones
Run away to a small coastal town. Leave your dark past behind. Start over. It was a pretty good plan. And Jack Parker is happy living the boring life of a small-town bookstore owner. A life outside of the world of magic. But when a new ghost shows up on his doorstep, followed by an irritatingly attractive detective investigating the murder of his partner, Jack knows his dream of a quiet life is about to magically disappear. Because Detective Richard Zuraw is about to pull him back into the world he hoped he’d left behind. A world of warring magical houses, powerful talismans, and evil cultists who would rather kill a mage like Jack than talk to him. Can Jack and Richard work together to stop the coming apocalypse? And if not, can Jack at least figure out how to get a little action before the whole damn world ends?
227 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2023
16 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 10, 2024
Reread March 24 God, I still really enjoyed this! I’m so glad it held up. Everything I said the first time around I still feel now. This world has alot of potential in it and I hope the author continues to expand it. I’ll admit this is a story I come back to check every couple of months to see if there’s news on a book 2.
I still really enjoy Jack as a MC and I really enjoy the dynamic and chemistry with Richard.
I completely acknowledge that magical investigation stories (especially with dark magic) are one of my favourite drugs of choice so this is right up my alley. This still gives me the same vibes I get from adult Auror Drarry fics. And really couldn’t we all do with more of that in our lives.
Still sitting hoping, wishing, waiting for a book 2. But this is still just as good on a reread.
first read May 23 This book was honestly just so fun. The magic system and world building felt fresh and unique and the play on dark magic being fueled by life energy and the entropy magic was so clever.
My only gripe was wishing that it was longer cause I wanted to just keep reading. This story and this world just feel so filled with potential for growth. I enjoyed Jack as a main character so much. I can’t wait for more of that tragic backstory to come out! I still have so many questions!
I wouldn’t go so far as to say that the core relationship is an enemies to lovers dynamic, more antagonistic acquaintances to lovers. But I found myself feeling invested in their growth together, but again I think the length of the story limits how much can be explored currently and but points to how much it’ll grow in future books.
I feel like this book would appeal to people who’s tastes run in the direction of wanting to read mystery stories about Aurors from HP.
I’ll be watching for book 2 when it comes!
I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I still really enjoy Jack as a MC and I really enjoy the dynamic and chemistry with Richard.
I completely acknowledge that magical investigation stories (especially with dark magic) are one of my favourite drugs of choice so this is right up my alley. This still gives me the same vibes I get from adult Auror Drarry fics. And really couldn’t we all do with more of that in our lives.
Still sitting hoping, wishing, waiting for a book 2. But this is still just as good on a reread.
first read May 23 This book was honestly just so fun. The magic system and world building felt fresh and unique and the play on dark magic being fueled by life energy and the entropy magic was so clever.
My only gripe was wishing that it was longer cause I wanted to just keep reading. This story and this world just feel so filled with potential for growth. I enjoyed Jack as a main character so much. I can’t wait for more of that tragic backstory to come out! I still have so many questions!
I wouldn’t go so far as to say that the core relationship is an enemies to lovers dynamic, more antagonistic acquaintances to lovers. But I found myself feeling invested in their growth together, but again I think the length of the story limits how much can be explored currently and but points to how much it’ll grow in future books.
I feel like this book would appeal to people who’s tastes run in the direction of wanting to read mystery stories about Aurors from HP.
I’ll be watching for book 2 when it comes!
I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 8, 2024
Read this as a judge for the #SPFBO (self-published fantasy blog-off, hosted by Mark Lawrence) round 10.
This is a contemporary, mystery, fantasy story with ghosts at the centre of the plot. We follow a young mage who is estranged from most of his kind, and is just trying to get by day to day without drawing attention to himself. He really doesn’t want to be wrapped up in anything, and he’s doing his best to lie low after a serious run in with the law a while back. When magic and ghost-plots turn up on his doorstep there’s really not a lot Jack can do to get away. He is stuck with finding out the truth of the adventure, and to do so he, of course, has to work with the slightly bullish (and slightly handsome) detective, Richard, who brought him all of this trouble in the first place.
The plot for this book felt like it started off strong and kept moving at a good pace, without much let up. There’s never a moment I felt like things were padded or dull, and in fact the story seems to be exciting and to keep you on your toes throughout. I think at times it was a little light on the description and development of scenes and characters in favour of the plot and action, but even having said this I think it’s a light but enjoyable story.
What did I like?
- The action and pacing meant I got through this book fast and felt like it was a fun ride.
- The magic which is explained in this world varies in how it works person to person based on them and their magical heritage and family. I think learning more about the magics and the houses of magical people was good to see.
- The ghosts - not something I would typically seek out in stories or want to read about, I found them not as much creepy as interesting in how they can help in partial ways through the book.
Things which might not have worked so well for me?
- Character development - there’s a lack of being able to really know Jack or Richard which comes down to the length of the book I think. I do wish we had known their inner thoughts a little more as it would have been exhilarating to follow them on their adventure if we just knew them that bit better
- Their relationship - something about it just didn’t really work for me. Maybe because there’s an assertion of power and control from one over the other. I just didn’t ‘believe’ it was quite realistic on the feeling developing as fast.
Overall, I definitely had fun with this book, but I am not sure how memorable it will end up being for me. I do think the ending leaves a lot of questions about where the magic is going and what’s coming next, and I would be intrigued to find out the answers in a book 2, but for this one alone it’s a 3*s from me, so 6/10 for #SPFBO.
This is a contemporary, mystery, fantasy story with ghosts at the centre of the plot. We follow a young mage who is estranged from most of his kind, and is just trying to get by day to day without drawing attention to himself. He really doesn’t want to be wrapped up in anything, and he’s doing his best to lie low after a serious run in with the law a while back. When magic and ghost-plots turn up on his doorstep there’s really not a lot Jack can do to get away. He is stuck with finding out the truth of the adventure, and to do so he, of course, has to work with the slightly bullish (and slightly handsome) detective, Richard, who brought him all of this trouble in the first place.
The plot for this book felt like it started off strong and kept moving at a good pace, without much let up. There’s never a moment I felt like things were padded or dull, and in fact the story seems to be exciting and to keep you on your toes throughout. I think at times it was a little light on the description and development of scenes and characters in favour of the plot and action, but even having said this I think it’s a light but enjoyable story.
What did I like?
- The action and pacing meant I got through this book fast and felt like it was a fun ride.
- The magic which is explained in this world varies in how it works person to person based on them and their magical heritage and family. I think learning more about the magics and the houses of magical people was good to see.
- The ghosts - not something I would typically seek out in stories or want to read about, I found them not as much creepy as interesting in how they can help in partial ways through the book.
Things which might not have worked so well for me?
- Character development - there’s a lack of being able to really know Jack or Richard which comes down to the length of the book I think. I do wish we had known their inner thoughts a little more as it would have been exhilarating to follow them on their adventure if we just knew them that bit better
- Their relationship - something about it just didn’t really work for me. Maybe because there’s an assertion of power and control from one over the other. I just didn’t ‘believe’ it was quite realistic on the feeling developing as fast.
Overall, I definitely had fun with this book, but I am not sure how memorable it will end up being for me. I do think the ending leaves a lot of questions about where the magic is going and what’s coming next, and I would be intrigued to find out the answers in a book 2, but for this one alone it’s a 3*s from me, so 6/10 for #SPFBO.
June 10, 2023
A Heart of Bones is a mage mystery novel with ghosts, detectives, an elaborate magic system and a budding love story.
I was instantly hooked! The novel begins with Jack, the main character, noticing a creepy ghost staring at him through his bookstore window. Although the book has a kind of general levity to it due to Jack's hilarious inner monologue, the author does a fantastic job reminding us that we're reading a ghost story when describing those spooky ghost scenes.
Shortly after we meet Richard Zuraw, the sexy detective, inquiring about his partner's murder. Jack knows nothing and sends him away. From that point on, we follow Jack through a series of altercations with members of other mage houses, human cults wishing the extermination of mages and many many ghosts. Both Jack and Richard find themselves racing against the clock to elucidate the mystery of Richard's partner's death (which revealed a darker ominous plot) and now this dynamic duo become the reluctant saviours and try to prevent a possible apocalypse... all whilst navigating their complicated magic-bonded attraction for each other. Side note, the consent dialogues during the smut scenes were perfect! Not corny, just organic and respectful. I found their "connection" genuine and believable.
I am rating the book 4 out of 5 stars due to the following:
- The author alludes to Jack's very dark past and trauma. The reader knows that Jack is being hunted by bad people and has been on the run for quite some time and we eventually find out which house he belongs to... and that's it. I know this is the first book of a series but I would've preferred more of this subplot as I find it would've helped me connect with Jack and better understand some of his character traits. Also, I'm a very curious person and I just want to know! Other than that, the pacing throughout the book was perfect: kept me hooked and on my toes the whole time.
- One of the last chapters felt a little incomplete. Jack meets someone to wrap up the mystery solving portion of the book but I had to read it a second time to really understand what was concluded in that room. I may have been tired but I find a few more paragraphs of explanation instead of vague sentences would've been beneficial.
Overall, a GREAT read and I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!!!
I was instantly hooked! The novel begins with Jack, the main character, noticing a creepy ghost staring at him through his bookstore window. Although the book has a kind of general levity to it due to Jack's hilarious inner monologue, the author does a fantastic job reminding us that we're reading a ghost story when describing those spooky ghost scenes.
Shortly after we meet Richard Zuraw, the sexy detective, inquiring about his partner's murder. Jack knows nothing and sends him away. From that point on, we follow Jack through a series of altercations with members of other mage houses, human cults wishing the extermination of mages and many many ghosts. Both Jack and Richard find themselves racing against the clock to elucidate the mystery of Richard's partner's death (which revealed a darker ominous plot) and now this dynamic duo become the reluctant saviours and try to prevent a possible apocalypse... all whilst navigating their complicated magic-bonded attraction for each other. Side note, the consent dialogues during the smut scenes were perfect! Not corny, just organic and respectful. I found their "connection" genuine and believable.
I am rating the book 4 out of 5 stars due to the following:
- The author alludes to Jack's very dark past and trauma. The reader knows that Jack is being hunted by bad people and has been on the run for quite some time and we eventually find out which house he belongs to... and that's it. I know this is the first book of a series but I would've preferred more of this subplot as I find it would've helped me connect with Jack and better understand some of his character traits. Also, I'm a very curious person and I just want to know! Other than that, the pacing throughout the book was perfect: kept me hooked and on my toes the whole time.
- One of the last chapters felt a little incomplete. Jack meets someone to wrap up the mystery solving portion of the book but I had to read it a second time to really understand what was concluded in that room. I may have been tired but I find a few more paragraphs of explanation instead of vague sentences would've been beneficial.
Overall, a GREAT read and I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!!!
May 13, 2023
The good
+ The complicated world-building
+ Jack making friends with trees
+ Jack
+ Jack's magic not being so 'Black' after all
+ The fact that this book is dedicated to guinea pigs...
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o A lot of things were left unexplained or open-ended, so I hope the next book in the series is about the same main characters and continues their story
The bad
- Everytime they did anything sexual (or romantic), they were under the influence of alcohol, or at least there was still that extreme power imbalance with Jack being in Richard's custody and the influence of the binding spell. It felt like none of their relationship was 'real'
- This book had no content warnings, even though it included murder and death, torture, mention of drug addiction, mention of a past abusive relationship, and sex under the influence of alcohol
This book was alright, but the story just didn't really grab my attention. Which was a me-problem, because it was certainly well-written. I just really didn't like the premise for the relationship between Jack and Richard. The consent between them was dubious at best. I don't think I'll read the sequel; unfortunately, I'm just not invested enough.
+ The complicated world-building
+ Jack making friends with trees
+ Jack
+ Jack's magic not being so 'Black' after all
+ The fact that this book is dedicated to guinea pigs...
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o A lot of things were left unexplained or open-ended, so I hope the next book in the series is about the same main characters and continues their story
The bad
- Everytime they did anything sexual (or romantic), they were under the influence of alcohol, or at least there was still that extreme power imbalance with Jack being in Richard's custody and the influence of the binding spell. It felt like none of their relationship was 'real'
- This book had no content warnings, even though it included murder and death, torture, mention of drug addiction, mention of a past abusive relationship, and sex under the influence of alcohol
This book was alright, but the story just didn't really grab my attention. Which was a me-problem, because it was certainly well-written. I just really didn't like the premise for the relationship between Jack and Richard. The consent between them was dubious at best. I don't think I'll read the sequel; unfortunately, I'm just not invested enough.
May 29, 2023
A HEART OF BONES
BY: LILY C. SLAUSS
‘Good question. What the hell was I thinking? I’d been alone for a long time. So long that I’d almost stopped noticing people.’
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A HEART OF BONES is book 1 in Raven & Crane, and is a fantasy novel set in our world, following Jack Parker, who one day sees the ghost of someone who died. Not that unusual for him, but the next day, he realises who it was and gets a visit from her partner, Detective Richard Zuraw. Soon enough, he gets pushed into the world he had hoped he could leave behind.
Jack is a fun main character to follow that has a distinctive way to tell a story. I enjoyed his different tone of voice, sarcasm and snarky comments, even though I normally don’t read such tones. His voice seemed like the ideal fit for this type of story, where the stakes can become immense. In those cases, his sarcasm was a fun break from it all.
The storyline itself isn’t something new, but I liked how it took something familiar and made it its own, partly by introducing the magic system. Even though it could feel info-dumping at times, it never went on for too long. It also happened bit by bit, revealing more about the different houses and their magic as well as their history.
I must say I agree with the reviews saying Richard felt a bit flat, and I hope he gets more depth besides being a detective in the next book. I can see the potential for it, so I hope he gets something more going on soon so that he and Jack feel as equally fleshed out. As for the rest of the characters, it never felt like the cast got too big and all had an obvious goal and reason to be part of the story, which helped me remember them.
All by all, it was a fun first book that introduced an easy-to-understand magic system, used the familiar setting of our world combined with the world of magic and ghosts, and gave a great cast of characters that all felt like they had a clear reason to be here.
BY: LILY C. SLAUSS
‘Good question. What the hell was I thinking? I’d been alone for a long time. So long that I’d almost stopped noticing people.’
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A HEART OF BONES is book 1 in Raven & Crane, and is a fantasy novel set in our world, following Jack Parker, who one day sees the ghost of someone who died. Not that unusual for him, but the next day, he realises who it was and gets a visit from her partner, Detective Richard Zuraw. Soon enough, he gets pushed into the world he had hoped he could leave behind.
Jack is a fun main character to follow that has a distinctive way to tell a story. I enjoyed his different tone of voice, sarcasm and snarky comments, even though I normally don’t read such tones. His voice seemed like the ideal fit for this type of story, where the stakes can become immense. In those cases, his sarcasm was a fun break from it all.
The storyline itself isn’t something new, but I liked how it took something familiar and made it its own, partly by introducing the magic system. Even though it could feel info-dumping at times, it never went on for too long. It also happened bit by bit, revealing more about the different houses and their magic as well as their history.
I must say I agree with the reviews saying Richard felt a bit flat, and I hope he gets more depth besides being a detective in the next book. I can see the potential for it, so I hope he gets something more going on soon so that he and Jack feel as equally fleshed out. As for the rest of the characters, it never felt like the cast got too big and all had an obvious goal and reason to be part of the story, which helped me remember them.
All by all, it was a fun first book that introduced an easy-to-understand magic system, used the familiar setting of our world combined with the world of magic and ghosts, and gave a great cast of characters that all felt like they had a clear reason to be here.
June 2, 2023
Great world-building and I really liked how the magic worked.
A male protagonist, and bi-sexual - was a new and refreshing thing in the genre, and one I enjoyed. Even though I did not like the undertones of Insta-lust - it gave me a hint of the tired trope of a hyper-lusting bisexual.
The writing is good, and it is a straightforward story to be sucked into from the beginning. I really like how we are assumed to know how the world works. How we only during the first couple of chapters are let in the different ways this world works in contra to ours.
It's a fine story, nothing out of the ordinary, but a great read and perfect for Pride month or as a beach read this summer.
A male protagonist, and bi-sexual - was a new and refreshing thing in the genre, and one I enjoyed. Even though I did not like the undertones of Insta-lust - it gave me a hint of the tired trope of a hyper-lusting bisexual.
The writing is good, and it is a straightforward story to be sucked into from the beginning. I really like how we are assumed to know how the world works. How we only during the first couple of chapters are let in the different ways this world works in contra to ours.
It's a fine story, nothing out of the ordinary, but a great read and perfect for Pride month or as a beach read this summer.
July 26, 2023
Good Story
I'm rounding this up from 3.5 because, while I did enjoy the story, the bond that happens between Jack and Richard took a bit away from the story for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm rounding this up from 3.5 because, while I did enjoy the story, the bond that happens between Jack and Richard took a bit away from the story for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2023
Three attempts reading this before I realized the problem wasn't me. The relationship is not romantic- it's a power imbalance that never leaves the grey area/ dubious consent. I wanted to like it, hence trying to read it 3x, but I'm just too angry at their nonconsensual bond to accept anything between them as romantic. I ended up skimming/ skipping chunks because I wanted to know how things ended but couldn't stand the characters.
1. The bond was not a typical mate bond or magical "oops we're tied together and we don't know how to fix it" bond. It's a "we're bonded because I tied myself to you without your consent while you were asleep, and now I control you with nothing more than my voice so you will always do what I command" bond. Jack asked the detective to remove the bond and the reply was basically "no because I need your help." I'm all for forced proximity and bonds but nonconsensual bonds and power imbalances don't do it for me. And a power imbalance where the relationship starts because one person purposely takes advantage of another, especially while that person is vulnerable... Hard to win me over after that.
2. The word dick outlived its usefulness by 25%. I thought the nickname "Detective Dick" was funny at first but it quickly lost its sparkle and it made reading a real pain.
3. Jack kept thinking "I know I should fight harder but..." or some variation of that expression followed with "... for some reason I can't..." This started before the bond was in place, too, so it made it hard for me to like Jack. Jack who is our hero and tells this story to us from his POV. Jack who was weak regarding a hot guy before the hot guy placed a non-consensual bond on him. A bond Jack asked to have removed but was denied.
1. The bond was not a typical mate bond or magical "oops we're tied together and we don't know how to fix it" bond. It's a "we're bonded because I tied myself to you without your consent while you were asleep, and now I control you with nothing more than my voice so you will always do what I command" bond. Jack asked the detective to remove the bond and the reply was basically "no because I need your help." I'm all for forced proximity and bonds but nonconsensual bonds and power imbalances don't do it for me. And a power imbalance where the relationship starts because one person purposely takes advantage of another, especially while that person is vulnerable... Hard to win me over after that.
2. The word dick outlived its usefulness by 25%. I thought the nickname "Detective Dick" was funny at first but it quickly lost its sparkle and it made reading a real pain.
3. Jack kept thinking "I know I should fight harder but..." or some variation of that expression followed with "... for some reason I can't..." This started before the bond was in place, too, so it made it hard for me to like Jack. Jack who is our hero and tells this story to us from his POV. Jack who was weak regarding a hot guy before the hot guy placed a non-consensual bond on him. A bond Jack asked to have removed but was denied.
June 12, 2023
Urban fantasy meets M/M romance is a genre combination I can never say no to - and this series opener provides a promising introduction to a well-crafted world full of fascinating magic as well as an enemies to lovers themed romance that took a while longer to grow on me than the remainder of the plot (largely due to some slightly dubious consent issues there at first, which always puts me off), but I got there in the end.
The story easily sucked me in and kept me hooked - excellent pacing, lots of action, and the aforementioned impressive worldbuilding certainly saw to that. The magic system and the various magical houses are quite intriguing, and the book left me wanting to learn more about both. This is definitely a world and cast of characters I want to return to! Hopefully there'll be plenty more books to come.
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
The story easily sucked me in and kept me hooked - excellent pacing, lots of action, and the aforementioned impressive worldbuilding certainly saw to that. The magic system and the various magical houses are quite intriguing, and the book left me wanting to learn more about both. This is definitely a world and cast of characters I want to return to! Hopefully there'll be plenty more books to come.
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
May 12, 2023
I read a review copy of this book and enjoyed it. Jack is a fun MC and the plot moves along at a good pace. Lots of good magic bits and hooks for future books. Unfortunately the part I liked the least was the romance. Richard didn’t have much personality other than being a cop but I’m hoping he gets more going forward.
May 21, 2025
You think you've read an urban fantasy featuring a lanky misfit who can see dead people and his hunky love/hate interest as they investigate magical crimes in the real world? I sure did... But if it sounds like a familiar formula or not, it's well worth your time. You might even get so utterly hooked upon it that you really need there to be more (please!)
What I Loved:
- The sneaky lore and character backgrounds that crept into focus the more the story unfolded. There's plenty of detail and clever segues into letting us know more about how the magical and mundane worlds exist together. Magical police, different schools of magic, evil mage cults, slightly less evil (maybe) human cults, family bloodlines... Plenty to get your teeth into.
- The characters are loveable in their own ways. Jack is a snarky cinnamon roll with emotional baggage and trust issues, while Richard is your classic smouldering southerner (angry, passionate; the guy just sparks flames. Sometimes literally).
- The narration by Jack is emotionally engaging to read. I felt like I really got him as a character.
- Luna. Who couldn't love a non-speaking ghost that's Navi from Zelda only more useful?
- The ghosts are actually creepy.
What I Noticed:
- Sometimes a lore concept could feel a little jumped out of nowhere. The intro to the cults had me thinking "wait, what?", as if maybe I should have already known what they were.
- Super scorching, graphic sexytiemz. I don't down rate a book for it as it's just not my thing, but keep in mind that's what you're gonna get.
TL;DR: Urban fantasy mystery with magic, ghosts, and hot times. Come for the narration, stay for the lore.
What I Loved:
- The sneaky lore and character backgrounds that crept into focus the more the story unfolded. There's plenty of detail and clever segues into letting us know more about how the magical and mundane worlds exist together. Magical police, different schools of magic, evil mage cults, slightly less evil (maybe) human cults, family bloodlines... Plenty to get your teeth into.
- The characters are loveable in their own ways. Jack is a snarky cinnamon roll with emotional baggage and trust issues, while Richard is your classic smouldering southerner (angry, passionate; the guy just sparks flames. Sometimes literally).
- The narration by Jack is emotionally engaging to read. I felt like I really got him as a character.
- Luna. Who couldn't love a non-speaking ghost that's Navi from Zelda only more useful?
- The ghosts are actually creepy.
What I Noticed:
- Sometimes a lore concept could feel a little jumped out of nowhere. The intro to the cults had me thinking "wait, what?", as if maybe I should have already known what they were.
- Super scorching, graphic sexytiemz. I don't down rate a book for it as it's just not my thing, but keep in mind that's what you're gonna get.
TL;DR: Urban fantasy mystery with magic, ghosts, and hot times. Come for the narration, stay for the lore.
July 16, 2023
A great start to a new series!
I really like the cover art of this book, it drew me to it like a month to a flame. It's beautifully detailed, but not overly done.
I really liked this book, it has a great world building and character development together with the pretty cover art.
When I started to read, I really didn't want to put the book down, so I had to force myself to do so, since I needed to go to bed.
I really hope the next book in the series will come soon, or my mind will be mournful until I can sink in to this world yet again.
This series feels like a fresh new take on the magical world, magic users and the like. I really liked it a lot.
I'm pretty sure this is going to be one of those books added to the few books and series I re-read multiple times over and over, one of those which becomes very dear to me.
There is a nice slowburn romance development and a sense of adventure throughout the book, great descriptions to sink in to, to really get a feel of the story told and I can't wait to see how it unfolds and develops through the conning books 🙂
I give it a 5 proud stars rating, well deserved to the author and cover art artist.
Highly recommended book well worth reading.
I really like the cover art of this book, it drew me to it like a month to a flame. It's beautifully detailed, but not overly done.
I really liked this book, it has a great world building and character development together with the pretty cover art.
When I started to read, I really didn't want to put the book down, so I had to force myself to do so, since I needed to go to bed.
I really hope the next book in the series will come soon, or my mind will be mournful until I can sink in to this world yet again.
This series feels like a fresh new take on the magical world, magic users and the like. I really liked it a lot.
I'm pretty sure this is going to be one of those books added to the few books and series I re-read multiple times over and over, one of those which becomes very dear to me.
There is a nice slowburn romance development and a sense of adventure throughout the book, great descriptions to sink in to, to really get a feel of the story told and I can't wait to see how it unfolds and develops through the conning books 🙂
I give it a 5 proud stars rating, well deserved to the author and cover art artist.
Highly recommended book well worth reading.
June 5, 2024
This was a fun one -- it had an urban fantasy feel but took place in small-town Oregon. Jack Parker owns a bookstore, talks to trees, and sees ghosts. He even has a ghost companion named Luna, who appears as a ball of blue light (and steals every scene she's in -- I loved her!) Jack is also a Black Mage, with the ability to control life energy. He's approached by a magical detective, Richard Zuraw, after Richard's partner is murdered -- sparks fly, and the two mages have to work together to solve the mystery of a dark amulet, a town FULL of spirits, and prevent the opening of a gateway into a realm of the dead which could destroy the world as we know it.
I really liked Our Heroes and the quirky 'voice' of Jack, who's telling the story. There's wry humor and genuine creepiness, a winning combination. I liked the banter between Our Heroes a LOT -- the spicy scenes (which were surprisingly explicit) didn't quite work for me, but I'd definitely pick up another book in this series!
I really liked Our Heroes and the quirky 'voice' of Jack, who's telling the story. There's wry humor and genuine creepiness, a winning combination. I liked the banter between Our Heroes a LOT -- the spicy scenes (which were surprisingly explicit) didn't quite work for me, but I'd definitely pick up another book in this series!
August 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this magical tale. Well paced and just an overall good read!
I enjoyed the interesting magic family houses, the differences between the black mages, white mages and the others like true bloods. The magic system itself was also very interesting, especially using nature the way Jack does (the trees!!) and so many ghosts! You also can't go wrong introducing an evil, world ending cult! My fav character is Luna of course, Jack's best friend who just happens to also be a ghost.
I don't normally do tropes but here we have mistaken identity/enemies to lovers and it just works. I loved the slow burn building of something between Jack and Richard.
I'm excited to read further in the series, and to find out about Jack's past, more about Luna and his House.
I enjoyed the interesting magic family houses, the differences between the black mages, white mages and the others like true bloods. The magic system itself was also very interesting, especially using nature the way Jack does (the trees!!) and so many ghosts! You also can't go wrong introducing an evil, world ending cult! My fav character is Luna of course, Jack's best friend who just happens to also be a ghost.
I don't normally do tropes but here we have mistaken identity/enemies to lovers and it just works. I loved the slow burn building of something between Jack and Richard.
I'm excited to read further in the series, and to find out about Jack's past, more about Luna and his House.
November 7, 2024
While I did really enjoy this and it was quite readable and fast-paced, there were parts that felt underdeveloped. Richard's immediate reaction to Jack - while obviously heightened by the circumstances - didn't make total sense in the context of what we see of his magipolitical relations later. (The book even called attention to this but didn't really follow through.) As well, I didn't feel like we got to know the protagonists well enough to understand their attraction to one another, other than chemistry, and while the power dynamics did seem to settle later one there were definitely some questionable moments.
I do want to see more of this, as I liked the worldbuilding and the investigation and am curious to see where it goes next. 3.5*
I do want to see more of this, as I liked the worldbuilding and the investigation and am curious to see where it goes next. 3.5*
February 23, 2024
Full Review Here: https://britreviewsbooks.wordpress.co...
Romance-Fantasy (or Romantasy) is not normally my ballcourt. Nor is Gay fiction. However in the interest of expanding my horizons and becoming a more rounded person I picked this up.
And boy, was it enjoyable! The first person narrative from Jack gives us a glimpse into a magical world... of America (the joke here people is I am from Britain). Oh and all the magical communities/guilds who so happen to secretly live there. Our protagonist Jack can see dead people, owns a small book shop and can rip the life force out of someone - pretty normal all things considered bar the book shop. That bit is weird.
Without going into the plot too heavily, what starts off as a bit of a cliche Cult plot rapidly gains wings and treats new and interesting ground, with a large dollop of romance with Detective Richard - or Dick for short.
Not all of the world was explained fully, but that makes sense in book. The story also has explicit scenes in it which I didn't realise until I hit them and went "Oh My."
Highly enjoyable, left me wanting more - please release Raven & Crane Book 2 soon so I can see how the story develops!
Final Score: 7.5/10
Letter Rating: B+
Romance-Fantasy (or Romantasy) is not normally my ballcourt. Nor is Gay fiction. However in the interest of expanding my horizons and becoming a more rounded person I picked this up.
And boy, was it enjoyable! The first person narrative from Jack gives us a glimpse into a magical world... of America (the joke here people is I am from Britain). Oh and all the magical communities/guilds who so happen to secretly live there. Our protagonist Jack can see dead people, owns a small book shop and can rip the life force out of someone - pretty normal all things considered bar the book shop. That bit is weird.
Without going into the plot too heavily, what starts off as a bit of a cliche Cult plot rapidly gains wings and treats new and interesting ground, with a large dollop of romance with Detective Richard - or Dick for short.
Not all of the world was explained fully, but that makes sense in book. The story also has explicit scenes in it which I didn't realise until I hit them and went "Oh My."
Highly enjoyable, left me wanting more - please release Raven & Crane Book 2 soon so I can see how the story develops!
Final Score: 7.5/10
Letter Rating: B+
August 2, 2023
Magically Adventurous!
Really nice beginning to a new magical series. It was different, but in a good way. Settling, ease of reading, and overall entertaining.
Definitely a book I'll read several more times and would recommend.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Really nice beginning to a new magical series. It was different, but in a good way. Settling, ease of reading, and overall entertaining.
Definitely a book I'll read several more times and would recommend.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
October 12, 2023
Great book from a new author. Very exciting story, low steam, lots of action! I can’t wait to hear more about Jack’s back story, who (or what) Luna is and of course to see where the romance between Jack and Richard goes. I really liked the world building…it was so well integrated into the story, it never felt like info dumps.
Can’t wait for book 2!!
Can’t wait for book 2!!
March 14, 2024
A good read
Love this book, ready to read the next. Also wanna find out who or what Luna is. 10/10woud recommend. Just now getting in to the Sify side of things and it's really good.
Love this book, ready to read the next. Also wanna find out who or what Luna is. 10/10woud recommend. Just now getting in to the Sify side of things and it's really good.
July 20, 2024
Unputdownable!
I read this book in one sitting,kept going,as my husband slept.
I loved the characters,the plot,and the writing.The author is a great story teller.I hope there will be a sequel
I read this book in one sitting,kept going,as my husband slept.
I loved the characters,the plot,and the writing.The author is a great story teller.I hope there will be a sequel
November 6, 2023
I have fallen in love with this book, its characters, and lore. I hope to see many volumes in Jack's story in the future.
November 22, 2023
Fantastic start to a series
I was so engaged by this story, I really enjoyed it.
Slow pace, low to medium heat, character and plot driven, opposites attract, magic, ghosts.
I was so engaged by this story, I really enjoyed it.
Slow pace, low to medium heat, character and plot driven, opposites attract, magic, ghosts.
November 27, 2023
3 1/2 * .
February 4, 2024
I liked it well Enough
June 9, 2023
I’ll admit – Detective Richard Zuraw didn’t give me a lot to root for – and he’s a main character. I mean he automatically assumes that because Jack is a Black Mage and is able to to suck life energy out of people – that Jack’s bad. Like, the Mages that can wield fire can just as easily set people on fire – and kill them – just as easily as Jack could suck their life out? But, you know, no – Jack’s bad because he deals with life.
Then the Detective tries to stop Jack from carrying a book in his (Jack’s bookstore) bookstore because it’s banned – promotes dangerous ideas about magic. So that really pushed my liking of him down. By the end of the book I liked him a bit more (not by a lot though). Hopefully the next book has him more fighting against his employers (the magic police, unfortunately). Or maybe even just rebelling entirely and not being a magic cop anymore. Who knows!
Also he just up and asked Jack “where he’s from… ethnically”. And then followed up with “you don’t look exactly white”. What is that even supposed to mean? Jack does tell him off but that question shouldn’t have been asked? Like if Jack had told him on his own accord – that’s ok – because Jack chose it (to share his ethnicity). He better do a lot in the next book to make up for it – because this… wasn’t a good look for him at all. Please note that I have no idea of the author’s nationality, race, or ethnicity. All I know is that Lily C. Strauss is a pen name for this series. Meaning I don’t know if the author perhaps shares Jack’s ethnicity – I’m criticising Zuraw, the characer; not Strauss, the author.
I’m glad we had Jack as a main character because I liked him almost immediately. I mean, he owns a bookstore so boom? Also he’s very “rage against the machine” compared to Richard. Other people too, not just Richard, harbour a stigma against Black Mages that they’re bad because of the type of magic they wield and I didn’t like reading that at all. Another thing I hope happens in the next books – that the stigma lessens and/or Jack doesn’t feel like he has to explain himself all the time.
I think as a first book in a series (I have no idea if Strauss has written before – only has a Tumblr and apparently Lily C. Strauss is a new pen name?), it works. You can see it’s a first book in a series – there’s a lot of room to grow – for the plot, story line, characters, author’s writing as well – I hope Strauss manages to take that opportunity.
There’s a big secret surrounding Jack that comes out in the book (it’s not his sexuality, don’t worry – I would’ve added outing in the Content Warnings). He refers to the secret a bit before it’s revealed but I didn’t really understand why he was keeping it a secret? The reasons he gave felt, I don’t know, not good enough? It felt like he was the only one who acted like it was a big deal? Maybe the secret will be told to more people in the sequel and there will be a bigger reaction then? As usual, I’ll have to wait and see.
I’m a big fan of magic systems in books – I think you have to be if you grew up with fantasy books like me. I don’t think there’s a lot of fantasy books without magic? Or at least I don’t read those so I don’t really know 😄. But I wanted a lot more of the system that we got in the book. We got little bits but I wanted more because I liked it.
I liked that Strauss allowed us to learn and understand the magic through the characters. We get to know and understand the magic how the characters use it, how it feel for them. I like it when magic is explained in this way – it helps us as readers to know both characters and magic system. In books like these – where the magic is tied to the characters so much – it helps that it’s written well.
Then the Detective tries to stop Jack from carrying a book in his (Jack’s bookstore) bookstore because it’s banned – promotes dangerous ideas about magic. So that really pushed my liking of him down. By the end of the book I liked him a bit more (not by a lot though). Hopefully the next book has him more fighting against his employers (the magic police, unfortunately). Or maybe even just rebelling entirely and not being a magic cop anymore. Who knows!
Also he just up and asked Jack “where he’s from… ethnically”. And then followed up with “you don’t look exactly white”. What is that even supposed to mean? Jack does tell him off but that question shouldn’t have been asked? Like if Jack had told him on his own accord – that’s ok – because Jack chose it (to share his ethnicity). He better do a lot in the next book to make up for it – because this… wasn’t a good look for him at all. Please note that I have no idea of the author’s nationality, race, or ethnicity. All I know is that Lily C. Strauss is a pen name for this series. Meaning I don’t know if the author perhaps shares Jack’s ethnicity – I’m criticising Zuraw, the characer; not Strauss, the author.
I’m glad we had Jack as a main character because I liked him almost immediately. I mean, he owns a bookstore so boom? Also he’s very “rage against the machine” compared to Richard. Other people too, not just Richard, harbour a stigma against Black Mages that they’re bad because of the type of magic they wield and I didn’t like reading that at all. Another thing I hope happens in the next books – that the stigma lessens and/or Jack doesn’t feel like he has to explain himself all the time.
I think as a first book in a series (I have no idea if Strauss has written before – only has a Tumblr and apparently Lily C. Strauss is a new pen name?), it works. You can see it’s a first book in a series – there’s a lot of room to grow – for the plot, story line, characters, author’s writing as well – I hope Strauss manages to take that opportunity.
There’s a big secret surrounding Jack that comes out in the book (it’s not his sexuality, don’t worry – I would’ve added outing in the Content Warnings). He refers to the secret a bit before it’s revealed but I didn’t really understand why he was keeping it a secret? The reasons he gave felt, I don’t know, not good enough? It felt like he was the only one who acted like it was a big deal? Maybe the secret will be told to more people in the sequel and there will be a bigger reaction then? As usual, I’ll have to wait and see.
I’m a big fan of magic systems in books – I think you have to be if you grew up with fantasy books like me. I don’t think there’s a lot of fantasy books without magic? Or at least I don’t read those so I don’t really know 😄. But I wanted a lot more of the system that we got in the book. We got little bits but I wanted more because I liked it.
I liked that Strauss allowed us to learn and understand the magic through the characters. We get to know and understand the magic how the characters use it, how it feel for them. I like it when magic is explained in this way – it helps us as readers to know both characters and magic system. In books like these – where the magic is tied to the characters so much – it helps that it’s written well.
December 23, 2023
I want to say that I enjoyed this book but the cliffhanger/abrupt ending left a bad taste in my mouth. It's 3.5 stars, but definitely not 4, because of the ending. I don't like cliffhangers and I really don't like them when the next book is not readily available.
That being said, I really liked the MC's. Both were well drawn, clear and quirky. I liked how the binding spell impacted both of them. I liked the stuff about houses and inbreeding, how the magic worked. I liked the black magic vibe. I liked the man who turns himself in a mildly malign apple tree.(that's a throw away line, but it really intrigued me!) I liked all the magic stuff. So I was happy with the read. It's clearly a set up for a series, and it looks like it will be a fun one, but not if it ends each book so messily.
That being said, I really liked the MC's. Both were well drawn, clear and quirky. I liked how the binding spell impacted both of them. I liked the stuff about houses and inbreeding, how the magic worked. I liked the black magic vibe. I liked the man who turns himself in a mildly malign apple tree.(that's a throw away line, but it really intrigued me!) I liked all the magic stuff. So I was happy with the read. It's clearly a set up for a series, and it looks like it will be a fun one, but not if it ends each book so messily.
May 16, 2023
I have a habit of jotting down notes while reading, so I don't forget the things that made an impression on me. For this book, my first bullet point reads: "well, Luna is immediately adorable".
Seriously, I love her so much. The moment she appeared, I got this indulgent, fond smile on my face. I knew from the outset that I'd dig the vibes of this book - of this whole fictional universe, in fact. It's an ambitious bit of worldbuilding, involving a cool magic system (tela artis that are tattooed on; different types of magic and different Houses) and alternate dimensions (involving hints of a long history and high stakes in the plot). I think the author pulls this off wonderfully.
I like her writing a lot - it's quite rich and descriptive, but without getting bogged down. Within the urban fantasy genre (if I may think of this book that way), sometimes you get rather YA-style writing, which feels like the prose equivalent of fast food. The short, spare sentences make you start skimming (I swear the alliteration there is accidental). This is just as easy reading, but to pick up my food analogy, it's more like a hearty, nutritious stew. You want to linger on the love and time that has clearly gone into it.
Jack is likeable and compelling. A protagonist with a shadowed/traumatic past who is nevertheless kind at heart? Catnip to me. I love how he always asks for, rather than takes, the energy from plants and trees. He's like a vegan Life/Black mage.
Richard is... a little flat. He's a type: "hot guy who briefly seems like a dick but later turns out to be okay". Except the contrast makes the main character find him extra appealing. It's a common enough trick to speed up a romance arc. Fair enough, but I'd hope for subsequent books to develop his personality more fully.
Mostly what I find neat is the melding of their magic. But I echo other reviewers in feeling that the issue of consent in the binding needed to be discussed better.
This is a short and satisfying read that unfolds at a generally good pace. I'd maybe have wanted the climactic sequence to have lasted longer, but since this is the first in a planned series, I understand why it plays out the way it does.
I received an advance review copy via BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Seriously, I love her so much. The moment she appeared, I got this indulgent, fond smile on my face. I knew from the outset that I'd dig the vibes of this book - of this whole fictional universe, in fact. It's an ambitious bit of worldbuilding, involving a cool magic system (tela artis that are tattooed on; different types of magic and different Houses) and alternate dimensions (involving hints of a long history and high stakes in the plot). I think the author pulls this off wonderfully.
I like her writing a lot - it's quite rich and descriptive, but without getting bogged down. Within the urban fantasy genre (if I may think of this book that way), sometimes you get rather YA-style writing, which feels like the prose equivalent of fast food. The short, spare sentences make you start skimming (I swear the alliteration there is accidental). This is just as easy reading, but to pick up my food analogy, it's more like a hearty, nutritious stew. You want to linger on the love and time that has clearly gone into it.
Jack is likeable and compelling. A protagonist with a shadowed/traumatic past who is nevertheless kind at heart? Catnip to me. I love how he always asks for, rather than takes, the energy from plants and trees. He's like a vegan Life/Black mage.
Richard is... a little flat. He's a type: "hot guy who briefly seems like a dick but later turns out to be okay". Except the contrast makes the main character find him extra appealing. It's a common enough trick to speed up a romance arc. Fair enough, but I'd hope for subsequent books to develop his personality more fully.
Mostly what I find neat is the melding of their magic. But I echo other reviewers in feeling that the issue of consent in the binding needed to be discussed better.
This is a short and satisfying read that unfolds at a generally good pace. I'd maybe have wanted the climactic sequence to have lasted longer, but since this is the first in a planned series, I understand why it plays out the way it does.
I received an advance review copy via BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
July 30, 2023
My first book by Lily and thoroughly enjoyed it. A well written book that is dark, witty with a slow burn romance between MC as well as an interesting storyline with a paranormal mystery theme. Ending leaves you wanting more so can't wait for the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 16, 2023
A great start to a new series!
I really like the cover art of this book, it drew me to it like a month to a flame. It's beautifully detailed, but not overly done.
I really liked this book, it has a great world building and character development together with the pretty cover art.
When I started to read, I really didn't want to put the book down, so I had to force myself to do so, since I needed to go to bed.
I really hope the next book in the series will come soon, or my mind will be mournful until I can sink in to this world yet again.
This series feels like a fresh new take on the magical world, magic users and the like. I really liked it a lot.
I'm pretty sure this is going to be one of those books added to the few books and series I re-read multiple times over and over, one of those which becomes very dear to me.
There is a nice slowburn romance development and a sense of adventure throughout the book, great descriptions to sink in to, to really get a feel of the story told and I can't wait to see how it unfolds and develops through the conning books 🙂
I give it a 5 proud stars rating, well deserved to the author and cover art artist.
Highly recommended book well worth reading.
I really like the cover art of this book, it drew me to it like a month to a flame. It's beautifully detailed, but not overly done.
I really liked this book, it has a great world building and character development together with the pretty cover art.
When I started to read, I really didn't want to put the book down, so I had to force myself to do so, since I needed to go to bed.
I really hope the next book in the series will come soon, or my mind will be mournful until I can sink in to this world yet again.
This series feels like a fresh new take on the magical world, magic users and the like. I really liked it a lot.
I'm pretty sure this is going to be one of those books added to the few books and series I re-read multiple times over and over, one of those which becomes very dear to me.
There is a nice slowburn romance development and a sense of adventure throughout the book, great descriptions to sink in to, to really get a feel of the story told and I can't wait to see how it unfolds and develops through the conning books 🙂
I give it a 5 proud stars rating, well deserved to the author and cover art artist.
Highly recommended book well worth reading.
June 6, 2023
This one was a little outside my usual genre picks, and I'm really glad I gave it a go! The author's dark, witty humour, great pacing, and clever weaving of magic and murder-mystery themes, really had me hooked all the way through.
I enjoyed the diverse and accepting rep across the characters, and was intrigued by the world building and lots of hints at backstory/secrets within the characters themselves. It doesn't info-dump or feel like exposition at any time, rather feeding you relevant info when it makes sense - allowing you to enjoy the process of learning about the characters and world, and unravelling the mystery as you go. The ghosts were damn creepy, and there's some dark themes throughout, but I felt it was all tastefully done.
Loved the main M/M relationship, as well as discussion on bisexuality especially from a masc perspective. The slow burn is enjoyable and believable, as well as satisfying, and still leaves progress to be made (none of those instant declarations of love that personally I can't stand!)
The characters are wonderful, and I really hope we get to carry on the story soon, as I have so many questions. I also just had a brilliant time reading it, so I'll be keeping an eye out for more of this authors work in general.
Thanks very much to BookSirens and Lily C. Strauss for this great ARC - my opinions are my own, honest, and left voluntarily.
I enjoyed the diverse and accepting rep across the characters, and was intrigued by the world building and lots of hints at backstory/secrets within the characters themselves. It doesn't info-dump or feel like exposition at any time, rather feeding you relevant info when it makes sense - allowing you to enjoy the process of learning about the characters and world, and unravelling the mystery as you go. The ghosts were damn creepy, and there's some dark themes throughout, but I felt it was all tastefully done.
Loved the main M/M relationship, as well as discussion on bisexuality especially from a masc perspective. The slow burn is enjoyable and believable, as well as satisfying, and still leaves progress to be made (none of those instant declarations of love that personally I can't stand!)
The characters are wonderful, and I really hope we get to carry on the story soon, as I have so many questions. I also just had a brilliant time reading it, so I'll be keeping an eye out for more of this authors work in general.
Thanks very much to BookSirens and Lily C. Strauss for this great ARC - my opinions are my own, honest, and left voluntarily.
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