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Sorcerer's Knot
In a world where pleasure unlocks even the best-guarded magic, Cian has a long list of magical talents—and an even longer list of sorcerers he slept with to acquire them. He even seduced a dragon. There’s just one arcane power left for him to command over the sea. Now Cian has learned where to find Muir the Scarred, the only man known to have mastered that power—and he is determined to wrest it from him by whatever means necessary.
But completing the task isn’t so easy. First, Cian’s boat is wrecked on the shores of Muir’s desolate island. Then he learns an enchantment will keep him there forever. And when he tries to seduce Muir, he finds himself being seduced by the mysterious sorcerer instead. But the source of the power Cian seeks is also trapped on the island, and it will stop at nothing to break free, even if that means forcing pleasure—and magic—from Cian's unwilling body.
But completing the task isn’t so easy. First, Cian’s boat is wrecked on the shores of Muir’s desolate island. Then he learns an enchantment will keep him there forever. And when he tries to seduce Muir, he finds himself being seduced by the mysterious sorcerer instead. But the source of the power Cian seeks is also trapped on the island, and it will stop at nothing to break free, even if that means forcing pleasure—and magic—from Cian's unwilling body.
91 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 21, 2012
3 people are currently reading
361 people want to read
About the author
Tali Spencer
16 books165 followersI am fascinated by swords, mythology, and everything ancient and magical. Sword and sandals? I'm in! But I also love bodice-rippers, Regency romances, magical realism, pulpy detective stories, cozy mysteries, and South American literature.
Though I grew up as a bit of a nomad, I currently live in Pennsylvania with my husband and travel whenever I can. Every destination yields a story or three.
When not writing, I read everything (really, everything), experiment with food, and take long walks with my loving, if slightly neurotic, poodle.
Though I grew up as a bit of a nomad, I currently live in Pennsylvania with my husband and travel whenever I can. Every destination yields a story or three.
When not writing, I read everything (really, everything), experiment with food, and take long walks with my loving, if slightly neurotic, poodle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 23, 2013
(1) Tentaclesex
(2) Kind of an actual plot-ish
(3) Feeeeeelings
(4) True Love (sort of)
(5) All-encompassing Archenemy
*gives up on list.
Something about this is Princess-Bride-y.
Also, Cian has a magic asshole. A magic asshole. "Infinite capacity and perpetual elasticity." Need I say more?
(2) Kind of an actual plot-ish
(3) Feeeeeelings
(4) True Love (sort of)
(5) All-encompassing Archenemy
*gives up on list.
Something about this is Princess-Bride-y.
Also, Cian has a magic asshole. A magic asshole. "Infinite capacity and perpetual elasticity." Need I say more?
February 23, 2013
I loved that this was written and structured as a traditional fairy tale. The rythym of the language is just begging to be read out as a bedtime story:
. . . he'd talked to brindled seals who told him of ships pulled onto the island's rocks, of sailors washed safely to shore - young, beautiful sailors, all of whom returned to the sea soon after, lifeless and broken. He'd spoken to the birds who told him the young men sang with pleasure when the sorcerer pierced them . . .
I'll be eagerly watching for more from this author.
3.5 rounded up, because tentacles.
. . . he'd talked to brindled seals who told him of ships pulled onto the island's rocks, of sailors washed safely to shore - young, beautiful sailors, all of whom returned to the sea soon after, lifeless and broken. He'd spoken to the birds who told him the young men sang with pleasure when the sorcerer pierced them . . .
I'll be eagerly watching for more from this author.
3.5 rounded up, because tentacles.
July 10, 2014
Another hit from Tali Spencer! Parts of it read like an elegant fairytale, with rich imagery describing the people, the land, and the sea. The world building was well done, with imaginative details like the sorcerer's knot and the dragon's gift. *still grinning over that gift*
The best part for me, though, was how I'd be all caught up in the intensity of the story and then something ridiculous would happen to break the tension. It felt like I was reading this incredible novel that turned into a crazy porno, and then went back to the dramatic storyline. I don't know how, but it worked! And it was so entertaining. I also loved the unexpected flashes of humor which often caused startled, but delighted, laughter.
I admit, Cian was not my favorite person in the beginning. He was arrogant, calculating, and self-serving, not at all likeable. Eventually he redeemed himself, but that growth didn't happen overnight. Even as he recognized similar parallels to someone else's experience, and acknowledged the lessons she learned, he rejected those lessons for himself. He continued to resist giving up on his goal. He couldn't resist Muir, though. Poor, tormented Muir. He built walls to protect himself, but he couldn't bury hope. I liked watching the two of them interact, especially during the steamy times. Muir was certainly....forceful ;)
It all came to a head soon enough, though. A head with tentacles. And not the good kind, either. *shudders*
There were a few niggles for me, including the ending, which I thought happened too soon (I wanted to see them complete their next task.) I also thought everything wrapped up a bit too neatly. After such a dramatic climax, it was a tiny bit of a letdown. Overall, though, I was very happy with this adventure. I'm also becoming addicted to Ms. Spencer's style of writing. Intense action/adventure mixed with zany humor for a touch of comic relief, and tempered with a tenderness that caught my heart.
I liked it. A lot. =)
Review previously published on
The best part for me, though, was how I'd be all caught up in the intensity of the story and then something ridiculous would happen to break the tension. It felt like I was reading this incredible novel that turned into a crazy porno, and then went back to the dramatic storyline. I don't know how, but it worked! And it was so entertaining. I also loved the unexpected flashes of humor which often caused startled, but delighted, laughter.
I admit, Cian was not my favorite person in the beginning. He was arrogant, calculating, and self-serving, not at all likeable. Eventually he redeemed himself, but that growth didn't happen overnight. Even as he recognized similar parallels to someone else's experience, and acknowledged the lessons she learned, he rejected those lessons for himself. He continued to resist giving up on his goal. He couldn't resist Muir, though. Poor, tormented Muir. He built walls to protect himself, but he couldn't bury hope. I liked watching the two of them interact, especially during the steamy times. Muir was certainly....forceful ;)
It all came to a head soon enough, though. A head with tentacles. And not the good kind, either. *shudders*
There were a few niggles for me, including the ending, which I thought happened too soon (I wanted to see them complete their next task.) I also thought everything wrapped up a bit too neatly. After such a dramatic climax, it was a tiny bit of a letdown. Overall, though, I was very happy with this adventure. I'm also becoming addicted to Ms. Spencer's style of writing. Intense action/adventure mixed with zany humor for a touch of comic relief, and tempered with a tenderness that caught my heart.
I liked it. A lot. =)
Review previously published on
August 31, 2012
I loved this story. It's dark, angsty, and beautifully written. It's also a story of growth and of finding one's purpose and destiny.
Cian is a sorcerer who will stop at nothing to master the last of the arcane powers: the power to control the sea. He nearly loses his life in search of Muir the Scarred, the only sorcerer known to possess that power. But Cian doesn't intend to ask Muir to teach him, he intends to steal the power from Muir. Suffice it to say, things don't go at all as Cian plans. What he finds on the tiny island is far more than Muir, it's his future, his destiny, and his fulfillment as a man.
Ms. Spencer is a writer who knows how to use prose to her advantage. Her depictions of even the most horrible of living nightmares are beautifully written, and the underlying theme of the story is profound. I highly recommend this book to readers who want something more than just the traditional MM romance. Don't get me wrong--that's there, too. But there is so much more to be found in the pages of "The Sorcerer's Knot."
Cian is a sorcerer who will stop at nothing to master the last of the arcane powers: the power to control the sea. He nearly loses his life in search of Muir the Scarred, the only sorcerer known to possess that power. But Cian doesn't intend to ask Muir to teach him, he intends to steal the power from Muir. Suffice it to say, things don't go at all as Cian plans. What he finds on the tiny island is far more than Muir, it's his future, his destiny, and his fulfillment as a man.
Ms. Spencer is a writer who knows how to use prose to her advantage. Her depictions of even the most horrible of living nightmares are beautifully written, and the underlying theme of the story is profound. I highly recommend this book to readers who want something more than just the traditional MM romance. Don't get me wrong--that's there, too. But there is so much more to be found in the pages of "The Sorcerer's Knot."
April 18, 2015
First, look at this book cover.... ooOOOoooo pretty.
5 stars because for me this was a flawless m/m fantasy-romance. A magical world, mercenary mages, nasty horrid beasties. Yes! But the characters were very real, shaped by the lives they'd lived. Full of sorrow, pain, hard won and well deserved arrogance, as well as beauty. An exciting adventure, story well told!
Oh, and the special power Cian's dragon gifted him with? Ahhhhhh, read the book!!
5 stars because for me this was a flawless m/m fantasy-romance. A magical world, mercenary mages, nasty horrid beasties. Yes! But the characters were very real, shaped by the lives they'd lived. Full of sorrow, pain, hard won and well deserved arrogance, as well as beauty. An exciting adventure, story well told!
Oh, and the special power Cian's dragon gifted him with? Ahhhhhh, read the book!!
August 23, 2012
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
3.5 stars
Cian has mastered 6 of the 7 areas of magic -- all but the sea. At an early age, he showed exceptional magical ability, which led to his capture by priests and later slavery, magical and sexual, by any man powerful enough to conquer his master. He's belonged to princes, priests, kings, and throughout learned that sex and power go hand in hand. After a time, it allowed him his freedom, by taking what men have taken from him. Now, he is obsessed with power and very near to unlocking the secrets of the sea, the last area of magic kept from him. To do so, he must find the only man who has ever mastered it's secrets, and seduce him to steal his power -- something that he's done before. But what he finds on his quest isn't at all what he expected and will change him in terrible and unalterable ways.
This novella, while on the surface about a dark fantasy world, is really about what power does to people, and how people can be ruined and manipulated by it and other people's obsession with it. We get to know Cian, who from the very beginning is difficult to relate to. From the start we know that his objective is to find the reclusive Muir the Scarred and steal his power. The way he does that is by getting his "prey" (for lack of a better term) to relax their defenses. The best way that Cian does that is to seduce them, and in the moments after climax, seize their power. We don't ever know exactly what this does to a person, though there is mention that maybe Muir isn't so innocent as sailors who come to his island have a way of dying themselves. Does it kill the person? Just leave them without magic? I'm not sure after reading this, though all the knowledge would change is just how reprehensible we find Cian. It isn't too long, however, before we start to see Cian buffered by Muir's abrasive and wise presence. While we don't know much about Muir at this time, the two together are softened somewhat. While they dance around one another, we start to see a bit of the real Cian, who has been taught to be zealous of power.
The story is definitely dark. It has hints of horror, rather Cthulhu-like horror lurking at the edges, though not throughout the story. Muir and Cian both have scarred pasts. They're actually quite similar, and the story leaves me with the thought that any magic user in this world is probably completely damaged in some way through the taking of it. But that allows for redemption, and the story is less about the romance between the two than it is Cian's journey. He's forced to confront himself on the island and not only see himself fully, but what possible practical use there might be for him in life.
I could have certainly used more romance between the two, though I was fine without it. There is definitely a relationship between them that is cultivated, but don't expect it to take center stage or receive much attention. I found a lot of their dialogue in the first half to be… obscure. What I mean is that they talk circles around each other. Muir is smart like Cian, but wise where Cian isn't. And because we see the story through Cian, Muir is often there at the edge where Cian can't quite understand him, yet where we get the feeling that he understands more about everything than we all do. Sometimes I suppose I just wanted some downtime, for things to settle a bit. But that was my own reaction to the story, and certainly not something that I imagine the majority of readers might feel. So I can't hold that against the author and I found that the story surprised me and was quite well written for an author that is new to me. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more of this author's work in the future.
3.5 stars
Cian has mastered 6 of the 7 areas of magic -- all but the sea. At an early age, he showed exceptional magical ability, which led to his capture by priests and later slavery, magical and sexual, by any man powerful enough to conquer his master. He's belonged to princes, priests, kings, and throughout learned that sex and power go hand in hand. After a time, it allowed him his freedom, by taking what men have taken from him. Now, he is obsessed with power and very near to unlocking the secrets of the sea, the last area of magic kept from him. To do so, he must find the only man who has ever mastered it's secrets, and seduce him to steal his power -- something that he's done before. But what he finds on his quest isn't at all what he expected and will change him in terrible and unalterable ways.
This novella, while on the surface about a dark fantasy world, is really about what power does to people, and how people can be ruined and manipulated by it and other people's obsession with it. We get to know Cian, who from the very beginning is difficult to relate to. From the start we know that his objective is to find the reclusive Muir the Scarred and steal his power. The way he does that is by getting his "prey" (for lack of a better term) to relax their defenses. The best way that Cian does that is to seduce them, and in the moments after climax, seize their power. We don't ever know exactly what this does to a person, though there is mention that maybe Muir isn't so innocent as sailors who come to his island have a way of dying themselves. Does it kill the person? Just leave them without magic? I'm not sure after reading this, though all the knowledge would change is just how reprehensible we find Cian. It isn't too long, however, before we start to see Cian buffered by Muir's abrasive and wise presence. While we don't know much about Muir at this time, the two together are softened somewhat. While they dance around one another, we start to see a bit of the real Cian, who has been taught to be zealous of power.
The story is definitely dark. It has hints of horror, rather Cthulhu-like horror lurking at the edges, though not throughout the story. Muir and Cian both have scarred pasts. They're actually quite similar, and the story leaves me with the thought that any magic user in this world is probably completely damaged in some way through the taking of it. But that allows for redemption, and the story is less about the romance between the two than it is Cian's journey. He's forced to confront himself on the island and not only see himself fully, but what possible practical use there might be for him in life.
I could have certainly used more romance between the two, though I was fine without it. There is definitely a relationship between them that is cultivated, but don't expect it to take center stage or receive much attention. I found a lot of their dialogue in the first half to be… obscure. What I mean is that they talk circles around each other. Muir is smart like Cian, but wise where Cian isn't. And because we see the story through Cian, Muir is often there at the edge where Cian can't quite understand him, yet where we get the feeling that he understands more about everything than we all do. Sometimes I suppose I just wanted some downtime, for things to settle a bit. But that was my own reaction to the story, and certainly not something that I imagine the majority of readers might feel. So I can't hold that against the author and I found that the story surprised me and was quite well written for an author that is new to me. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more of this author's work in the future.
August 26, 2012
Sexy sorcerers vs. Lovecraftian horrors get! This was a fun ride. I felt like the characters were a little too quick to get emotionally invested in each other, but I almost always have that complaint with romances, so take it with a grain of salt. The sorcery was cool, the chemistry between the leads heated up nicely, and the Evil in the Deeps was delightfully evil. Also there is scar worship, which always gets a plus from me.
Trigger warning for noncon issues -- ...To be honest it handled the noncon in a way that hit my pings nicely, but if you don't have good pings there be forewarned.
Trigger warning for noncon issues -- ...To be honest it handled the noncon in a way that hit my pings nicely, but if you don't have good pings there be forewarned.
March 21, 2015
This is definitely a surprise enjoyable freebie. It is well written. The plot is interesting. Wish there was more to it. After I finished, I wished there was more about Cian and Muir. Did I mention the tentacle sex? YES! Not enough violent tentacle rape, but I'll take what I can get.
The world building is decent and the characters were actually quite enjoyable. A fun little book recommended to those with a fetish for tentacle sex.
The world building is decent and the characters were actually quite enjoyable. A fun little book recommended to those with a fetish for tentacle sex.
August 11, 2016
I completely enjoyed this world. The island is fantastically well-described, and the way magic works is intriguing.
The relationship between Cian and Muir was powerful and beautiful.
Favorite Quotes:
He had finally encountered a man from whom he would not steal.
The relationship between Cian and Muir was powerful and beautiful.
Favorite Quotes:
He had finally encountered a man from whom he would not steal.
March 21, 2024
3.5 stars.
August 27, 2012
I think that to really appreciate this book you need to be a fan of fantasy, magic and other worlds possibly with a bit of sci fi thrown in. This story has aspects of all these. There are some peculiar and rather horrific but imaginative monsters and other species, as well as powers and and magic, but not a lot of romance. The main characters find love but they aren't really likeable people. Both Muir and Cian are hardened, calculating and power hungry, and quite ready to use their bodies and each other to get what they want. These are damaged men. No perfume and roses here.
This is a rather dark story about power and what people will do to get it, but how the grasp for power can be redeemed by caring and eventually by love. Although the men start out as rather uncaring towards each other by the middle of the book they find some kind of common ground helped along by a mutual attraction. It is their need to work together to control a common enemy that eventually helps them see that they love each other.
It is an interesting story if you like other worlds, but not really what I would describe as romantic. I didn't like the use of expletives in the story. It felt rather odd that in this other world one of the characters was constantly swearing. I felt it didn't fit within that world, but who knows perhaps he picked it up in his magic?
I will read other books from this author because the story is very imaginative and well written, but if you like soft and fluffy romances with bunnies, hearts and music you wont find that here.
This is a rather dark story about power and what people will do to get it, but how the grasp for power can be redeemed by caring and eventually by love. Although the men start out as rather uncaring towards each other by the middle of the book they find some kind of common ground helped along by a mutual attraction. It is their need to work together to control a common enemy that eventually helps them see that they love each other.
It is an interesting story if you like other worlds, but not really what I would describe as romantic. I didn't like the use of expletives in the story. It felt rather odd that in this other world one of the characters was constantly swearing. I felt it didn't fit within that world, but who knows perhaps he picked it up in his magic?
I will read other books from this author because the story is very imaginative and well written, but if you like soft and fluffy romances with bunnies, hearts and music you wont find that here.
November 8, 2012
4.5 stars. Sorcerer's Knot starts with the stately detachment of a classic fairy tale. In clear and elegant language, Spencer tells of Cian, a cold-hearted, acquisitive Mage. Cian sets off to an isolated island to acquire the only magic he hasn't managed to steal yet: power over the sea.
A mysterious wizard of great power protects the island and its secrets. Muir rescues Cian from his failed passage to the island. Muir welcomes Cian with reservations. but does not relinquish the magic Cian risked his life to acquire. There is an attraction between the scarred and isolated Muir and the power-hungry, heartless Cian. Their ruthlessness conceals hurt, fear, and loss. As they learn more about each other, the language becomes warmer and more expressive, it reflects their growing relationship. There is more to Muir than his scarred surface and vast power, there is more to Cian than his pretty face and hunger for magic. They need to join forces to maintain Muir's fragile control over a monstrous sea demon creature. Exclamation point!
I wished this was longer. I would have liked to see more of the village of castaways, learned more about the magic that Muir taught, and understand more of the convoluted magic that controlled the sea demon creature god best thing. Since both Muir and Cian have a long future ahead of them, trapped on the tiny, enchanted island, I would like to see much more of them.
Pretty, yet dark and often creepy, Sorcerer's Knot is a unique treat for any fantasy fan. Inventive, with nods to the most classic forms of fairy tales and myths.
A mysterious wizard of great power protects the island and its secrets. Muir rescues Cian from his failed passage to the island. Muir welcomes Cian with reservations. but does not relinquish the magic Cian risked his life to acquire. There is an attraction between the scarred and isolated Muir and the power-hungry, heartless Cian. Their ruthlessness conceals hurt, fear, and loss. As they learn more about each other, the language becomes warmer and more expressive, it reflects their growing relationship. There is more to Muir than his scarred surface and vast power, there is more to Cian than his pretty face and hunger for magic. They need to join forces to maintain Muir's fragile control over a monstrous sea demon creature. Exclamation point!
I wished this was longer. I would have liked to see more of the village of castaways, learned more about the magic that Muir taught, and understand more of the convoluted magic that controlled the sea demon creature god best thing. Since both Muir and Cian have a long future ahead of them, trapped on the tiny, enchanted island, I would like to see much more of them.
Pretty, yet dark and often creepy, Sorcerer's Knot is a unique treat for any fantasy fan. Inventive, with nods to the most classic forms of fairy tales and myths.
August 1, 2013
I found this story to be interesting… it caught me off guard with some plot elements I don’t want to reveal yet… (so, be warned, there will be some spoilers later!)
The set up of this story and the world it relates were well done. I enjoyed following Cian to Muir’s island, learning a bit about the magic of this world along the way. And since this is a novella, rather than a novel, the pace pulls the reader along nicely. We quickly see the rather odd relationship between Cian and Muir develop, one we’re never quite sure what to make of until we reach the end.
Muir is a sort of grizzled man. He’s covered from head to toe in circular scars from fighting magic. While the scars were an interesting touch, and meant to be sexy (I think), I only found them sexy sometimes. Parts of him were very scarred — and perhaps that was the author’s intent, to create a character we can care about that isn’t exactly beautiful. And if that was Spencer’s intent, then she succeeded. I liked Muir. I might not like to look at him, though.
Read the rest of the review on my blog:
http://camerondjames.wordpress.com/20...
The set up of this story and the world it relates were well done. I enjoyed following Cian to Muir’s island, learning a bit about the magic of this world along the way. And since this is a novella, rather than a novel, the pace pulls the reader along nicely. We quickly see the rather odd relationship between Cian and Muir develop, one we’re never quite sure what to make of until we reach the end.
Muir is a sort of grizzled man. He’s covered from head to toe in circular scars from fighting magic. While the scars were an interesting touch, and meant to be sexy (I think), I only found them sexy sometimes. Parts of him were very scarred — and perhaps that was the author’s intent, to create a character we can care about that isn’t exactly beautiful. And if that was Spencer’s intent, then she succeeded. I liked Muir. I might not like to look at him, though.
Read the rest of the review on my blog:
http://camerondjames.wordpress.com/20...
September 8, 2012
Very good read. The characters were interesting, the only complaint that I'd have is that there wasn't enough backstory. The plot was fun, the sex was good. I wish that there'd be another one, but I'm not sure how she'd do that!
I look forward to more books from her!
I look forward to more books from her!
September 14, 2012
Well written - check
Interesting setting - check
Imaginative story - check
I'm not a m/m story guy but the book was a pleasure to read. It may be a tad too dark.for some readers but it was a joy to read some superb writing.
Interesting setting - check
Imaginative story - check
I'm not a m/m story guy but the book was a pleasure to read. It may be a tad too dark.for some readers but it was a joy to read some superb writing.
June 24, 2018
It wasn't bad... just not necessarily good? I felt like the main character's were way too flat, despite interesting and complex histories. Could've been played better.
May 8, 2019
A fascinating short, not at all how I expected it to be.
The main character that sets the viewpoint of the book is Cian. He is a sorcerer who has in many ways had his life dictated by that. Take from a young age and used and trained, he eventually turned the tables and used others to gain power. Now he has one power left, the power of the sea, and only one sorcerer can teach that. Cian is surprisingly unlikable at first. He is so confident of his powers, his looks, and used to getting things handed to him. After all, though often caged, his powers and looks made him desirable and gave him gilded cages where he was often given things. Upon going to Muir's island he finds a harsh place where Muir is not at all swayed by him and makes him work for his bed, work even more for food, and takes time to give into passions without even giving over his trust. It is watching Cian come up against this that is fascinating and in time changes him. Much of that power and greed was an outward protection, gaining that power so that none could use them as they did when he was young and otherwise defenseless. He has lived him life unmoored, with none to love or care for him, and finding that despite the harsh life on the island there is so much caring the people have for each other surprises him. Finding out more about Muir and that his own walls are protecting a deeply caring man is even more of a surprise. Watching the changes and journey as the two men find each other and the mistakes they make to getting to each other was a truly wonderful story.
The main character that sets the viewpoint of the book is Cian. He is a sorcerer who has in many ways had his life dictated by that. Take from a young age and used and trained, he eventually turned the tables and used others to gain power. Now he has one power left, the power of the sea, and only one sorcerer can teach that. Cian is surprisingly unlikable at first. He is so confident of his powers, his looks, and used to getting things handed to him. After all, though often caged, his powers and looks made him desirable and gave him gilded cages where he was often given things. Upon going to Muir's island he finds a harsh place where Muir is not at all swayed by him and makes him work for his bed, work even more for food, and takes time to give into passions without even giving over his trust. It is watching Cian come up against this that is fascinating and in time changes him. Much of that power and greed was an outward protection, gaining that power so that none could use them as they did when he was young and otherwise defenseless. He has lived him life unmoored, with none to love or care for him, and finding that despite the harsh life on the island there is so much caring the people have for each other surprises him. Finding out more about Muir and that his own walls are protecting a deeply caring man is even more of a surprise. Watching the changes and journey as the two men find each other and the mistakes they make to getting to each other was a truly wonderful story.
November 26, 2021
At the beginning I didn't know what was going on, at the end it seemed that I was at the beginning. It's not bad though
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February 14, 2026Not that kind of knot, ya horndogs 😉
June 30, 2016
Sorcerer's Knot is the story of Cian, a sorcerer who has mastered all but one of the arcane powers, often stolen from spent sorcerers (and a dragon) after seducing them. His last goal is to steal power over the sea from the one man left who knows its secrets; Muir. The reclusive sorcerer lives on an enchanted and isolated island whose inhabitants may never leave its shores. After nearly drowning in his attempts to reach Muir, Cian finds himself at the mercy of the older man who is mysterious, powerful and determined to seduce the young sorcerer first.
Though not written poorly overall, Sorcerer's Knot is too short to really achieve anything great. It's major failing and my constant bane in reading gay fantasy is the instantaneous romance. Cian is swiftly coaxed away from his original goal of theft and power as Muir wastes no time in seducing him and when he succeeds they've somehow automatically fallen in love. There's a lot to be said about the enjoyment of a slow-burning romance, especially when that love is built between enemies or men with different beliefs. Tali Spencer probably never intended to make that attempt with Sorcerer's Knot, as it is a short story and a somewhat eclectic one at that. I did, however, enjoy Sorcerer's Knot more than other stories I have read from the author.
The redeeming quality of this book is that Spencer has kept it simple from the beginning through to the end. There is a fantasy world of magic and monsters involved in the story but it was never meant to be the main focus of the reader and therefore didn't detract from the story when it was only lightly brushed over. Although the characters fell into the instantaneous-love trap they still managed to mostly maintain their original sass and charm instead of the overused dominant top and submissive bottom.
A solid three stars from me for this short read.
Though not written poorly overall, Sorcerer's Knot is too short to really achieve anything great. It's major failing and my constant bane in reading gay fantasy is the instantaneous romance. Cian is swiftly coaxed away from his original goal of theft and power as Muir wastes no time in seducing him and when he succeeds they've somehow automatically fallen in love. There's a lot to be said about the enjoyment of a slow-burning romance, especially when that love is built between enemies or men with different beliefs. Tali Spencer probably never intended to make that attempt with Sorcerer's Knot, as it is a short story and a somewhat eclectic one at that. I did, however, enjoy Sorcerer's Knot more than other stories I have read from the author.
The redeeming quality of this book is that Spencer has kept it simple from the beginning through to the end. There is a fantasy world of magic and monsters involved in the story but it was never meant to be the main focus of the reader and therefore didn't detract from the story when it was only lightly brushed over. Although the characters fell into the instantaneous-love trap they still managed to mostly maintain their original sass and charm instead of the overused dominant top and submissive bottom.
A solid three stars from me for this short read.
September 8, 2012
Reviewed on Hearts On Fire... http://heartsonfirereviews.com/
I was expecting much more from this book than what I received. I love a good fantasy story with magic, mages and action but while this story had those elements, it just was not satisfying. Cian is a young, conniving, self-serving sorcerer in love with power. He has a mastery over six of the seven major magics and is out to gain mastery over the power of the sea. Cian finds the one sorcerer, Muir, who has the sea magic and sets about to seduce Muir in an effort to steal his magic through sex. Muir and the tiny island he lives on is a bit of an enigma to the over confident Cian. Muir really seems to have little use for Cian and has him running errands into the village or fixing his little cottage in exchange for food and shelter. The two men slowly bond over sex and Muir's story begins to unfold. I found the story to be somewhat disjointed and there was a lack of plot flow. The story held my interest because I wanted to learn more about the sea god Ygoth and what became of him. The story would have been much better and more enjoyable if either of the two main characters, Cian and Muir, were likable in any way. They both harbored their secrets until the very end of the story then were in a rush to tell them to each other. I found myself liking the lesser characters of the harsh, wind swept island and wished that they played larger roles. The idea behind the story was a good one but the length of the book seemed to hinder enough execution to truly make the story a winner. The sex was there as was the HEA ending but it just did not come together for me.
I was expecting much more from this book than what I received. I love a good fantasy story with magic, mages and action but while this story had those elements, it just was not satisfying. Cian is a young, conniving, self-serving sorcerer in love with power. He has a mastery over six of the seven major magics and is out to gain mastery over the power of the sea. Cian finds the one sorcerer, Muir, who has the sea magic and sets about to seduce Muir in an effort to steal his magic through sex. Muir and the tiny island he lives on is a bit of an enigma to the over confident Cian. Muir really seems to have little use for Cian and has him running errands into the village or fixing his little cottage in exchange for food and shelter. The two men slowly bond over sex and Muir's story begins to unfold. I found the story to be somewhat disjointed and there was a lack of plot flow. The story held my interest because I wanted to learn more about the sea god Ygoth and what became of him. The story would have been much better and more enjoyable if either of the two main characters, Cian and Muir, were likable in any way. They both harbored their secrets until the very end of the story then were in a rush to tell them to each other. I found myself liking the lesser characters of the harsh, wind swept island and wished that they played larger roles. The idea behind the story was a good one but the length of the book seemed to hinder enough execution to truly make the story a winner. The sex was there as was the HEA ending but it just did not come together for me.
March 13, 2014
Since I really enjoyed Thick as Thieves by this same author, I figured I’d give this one a try, and once again I was pleasantly surprised. The plot is pretty straightforward – the sorcerer Cian is on a quest to acquire all forms of magic, and only has the magic of the sea left to learn. Word is that the only one who can teach him is Muir the Scarred, who lives on a small island in the sea, so Cian sets out to find him and wrest the information from him in any way possible, seduction being high on the list.
There really isn’t an awful lot more I can say about either the plot or the book. It is well-written, without clunky dialogue or awkward sentences, has plenty male on male action to keep you entertained and a plot that never bores. Tali Spencer serves up another world where every man appears to be gay or at least bi-curious, yet manages to make it so that either it seems plausible or it simply doesn’t matter.
There are two reasons I didn’t give it five stars – I found the ending a bit light on delivery for the situation presented, which in my head was far graver, and it was too damned short. I’d be surprised if this was more than novella-length. Other than that it was a solid fantasy romance, recommended for anyone who likes M/M.
More reviews on Silk Screen Views.
There really isn’t an awful lot more I can say about either the plot or the book. It is well-written, without clunky dialogue or awkward sentences, has plenty male on male action to keep you entertained and a plot that never bores. Tali Spencer serves up another world where every man appears to be gay or at least bi-curious, yet manages to make it so that either it seems plausible or it simply doesn’t matter.
There are two reasons I didn’t give it five stars – I found the ending a bit light on delivery for the situation presented, which in my head was far graver, and it was too damned short. I’d be surprised if this was more than novella-length. Other than that it was a solid fantasy romance, recommended for anyone who likes M/M.
More reviews on Silk Screen Views.
July 27, 2015
I want to be honest when I say that when I started this book, I wasn’t sure what I was getting into. I had read other books by Spencer in the past, and enjoyed them, and when I saw this one on my kindle, I started reading it without reading the blurb.
But even with that, I did still enjoy the story! That is one thing that I enjoy about reading Spencer’s books because even though they are a bit different than what I normally read, I still enjoy them greatly. I loved the magical aspects that were added to this story. It really added to the story because Spencer used just the right amount of magical aspects – they didn’t overload the story, but brought it to a completely new level.
The chemistry between Cian and Muir was just off the charts! You could tell that right from the start, and it did lead to some great sexy-time scenes between the two of them. They both worked really well together, and it was amazing to be able to follow along with their relationship and to watch as they both learned more about each other.
I would say that if you are looking for a great read that is packed with suspense, then this is the one for you!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for Review*
But even with that, I did still enjoy the story! That is one thing that I enjoy about reading Spencer’s books because even though they are a bit different than what I normally read, I still enjoy them greatly. I loved the magical aspects that were added to this story. It really added to the story because Spencer used just the right amount of magical aspects – they didn’t overload the story, but brought it to a completely new level.
The chemistry between Cian and Muir was just off the charts! You could tell that right from the start, and it did lead to some great sexy-time scenes between the two of them. They both worked really well together, and it was amazing to be able to follow along with their relationship and to watch as they both learned more about each other.
I would say that if you are looking for a great read that is packed with suspense, then this is the one for you!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for Review*
October 19, 2012
While I would love to have had more of Cian and Muir, Spencer has delivered here a perfectly balanced story. A satisfying arc of plot, both in romance and action, combined with a quick pace and lively prose, keep the reader scrolling merrily along.
This one has content that brushes close (perhaps uncomfortably so for some) to rape in its tentacle porn, and some may find that it blurs terribly the line of bestiality as well--despite the blatant intellect of the involved parties. After all, intercourse with a dragon demands suspension of disbelief on any number of levels.
Spencer manages to cram a highly entertaining read into this short piece, but don't think for a moment that the steaming-hot sex scenes are all there is to it. Would love to read some other stories set in this same universe, the world-building left me intrigued and wanting more to say the least!
This one has content that brushes close (perhaps uncomfortably so for some) to rape in its tentacle porn, and some may find that it blurs terribly the line of bestiality as well--despite the blatant intellect of the involved parties. After all, intercourse with a dragon demands suspension of disbelief on any number of levels.
Spencer manages to cram a highly entertaining read into this short piece, but don't think for a moment that the steaming-hot sex scenes are all there is to it. Would love to read some other stories set in this same universe, the world-building left me intrigued and wanting more to say the least!
April 7, 2016
Cian travels learning different magics until he searches for the language and magic of the sea. Unknowingly answering Ygoth's call, he reaches the island where Ygoth is imprisoned by Muir. Thinking he can get the magic of the sea from Muir, he offers himself to Muir. Unfortunately all who come onto the island are forever trapped by Muir's sorcerer's knot. Cian is told this but is falling for Muir. After Ygoth tries to use Cian for escape from his prison, Cian returns to Muir to apologize. They both apologize to each other for Ygoth's actions. Recognizing the love between them, Cian vows to add his own sorcerer's know to help imprison Ygoth even more securely.
July 15, 2013
This was an interesting read. A story of power, and what people will do to achieve it, and what happens when you obtain that power. In regards to that, the story was dark. However, there was tentacle sex. So I think that balances it out :p
I love reading about power hungry characters so I was immediately drawn to Cian and his journey.
I can't really pinpoint what it was that didn't really work for me, but it's not a bad story, not by a long shot. Definitely something to keep in mind if you're looking for a little dark fix :)
I love reading about power hungry characters so I was immediately drawn to Cian and his journey.
I can't really pinpoint what it was that didn't really work for me, but it's not a bad story, not by a long shot. Definitely something to keep in mind if you're looking for a little dark fix :)
September 9, 2016
An odd one for me to rate. Its quite an involved sorcery story, reading as a far longer story than it actually is. Great character and world building. It includes non-con tentacle sex, which whilst not my thing, was well written. Its a dark tale of magic, being careful of what you seek and having to live with the consequences. Its not my normal sort of read (I picked it up free from DSP last year) but for lovers of magic worlds it would be a good read. Well written and plenty of action.
March 8, 2014
It was similar to the fairytale, along with a story you don't want to dig into too much or else it will fall apart. It's a tale of two sorcerers who may seem very different but are quite similar in their desire of the knowledge. But curiosity, as the saying goes, is a first step to hell and they keep getting involved in all kinds of catastrofies. But where one can't manage, two just might have a chance. If only they conquer their differences and learn to work together that is.
January 29, 2017
Well, despite the tentacle sex, this was a really good short story. At first I was not enamored with Cian; he was a sneak trying to use Muir. He grew on me. Muir and Cian are hot together. Ygoth was one creepy monster. Cian and Muir will have to work together to encapsulate him back in his prison. I would like to read a follow up book, hopefully their will be more relationship development between Muir and Cian.
September 18, 2013
This fantasy story started out a little slowly but then gained momentum as Cian meets Muir and moves forward with his plan to take his power. Cian is surprised by many things he learns on the island and he begins to question his goal.
This isn't the type of story that I normally read, but it really held my interest until the end. I'm definitely going to be reading more from this author.
This isn't the type of story that I normally read, but it really held my interest until the end. I'm definitely going to be reading more from this author.
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