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The Academy #4
Tamed by the Fire
Kitrina Dragonheart is a hunted woman, but the last thing the savvy rogue wants is to partner in a quest with the arrogant but oh-so-sexy prince who deflowered her. But when the threat extends to her legacy and her loved ones, she has no choice but to accept his skills as an extraordinary warrior. Now if she can just get past the distraction of his touch.
Barbarian Zander Hammerstrike vowed to protect Kit with his life. But who's going to protect Zander from the sensually sassy human? She's playing havoc on his sanity—as well as his libido—and she's on the verge of stealing his heart...again. He can't let that happen. As future ruler of Alaria, Zander must take a barbarian wife to keep the bloodline pure, and Kit being human...
Destined from birth to follow different paths, their love seems impossible, but does the Dragon Heart Opal have other plans in store for the pair?
Barbarian Zander Hammerstrike vowed to protect Kit with his life. But who's going to protect Zander from the sensually sassy human? She's playing havoc on his sanity—as well as his libido—and she's on the verge of stealing his heart...again. He can't let that happen. As future ruler of Alaria, Zander must take a barbarian wife to keep the bloodline pure, and Kit being human...
Destined from birth to follow different paths, their love seems impossible, but does the Dragon Heart Opal have other plans in store for the pair?
342 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2013
2 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Maxine Mansfield
12 books209 followersHi, my name is Maxine Mansfield and I write romantic fantasy. I live in the far northern state of Alaska where the summer days are long and the winter nights even longer.
I have six delightful grandchildren in my life.
Oh, and Gnomes! many, many gnomes.
I have six delightful grandchildren in my life.
Oh, and Gnomes! many, many gnomes.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 10, 2013
** I received this book in exchange for an honest review. LOP**
Absolutely awesome! I loved everything about this book. Maxine Mansfield has done it again with her amazing style of writing. The story itself is easy to follow and full of surprises. The characters are all great. The humor had me laughing out loud at times. The sex scenes are hot and steamy. Well written. A definite must add to your tbr list. Recommended!!
Absolutely awesome! I loved everything about this book. Maxine Mansfield has done it again with her amazing style of writing. The story itself is easy to follow and full of surprises. The characters are all great. The humor had me laughing out loud at times. The sex scenes are hot and steamy. Well written. A definite must add to your tbr list. Recommended!!
July 4, 2018
Ostensibly this is a fantasy about a young woman who shapeshifts into a cat, and a barbarian prince. There are dragons, gnomes, dark elves and a magical academy. But in reality, if you are not into having the same sex scenes repeated with great frequency (and energy), this is not the book for you. The fantasy world makes sex convenient by encouraging classes and exams in the subject at school, and girls are expected to have a deflowering occasion, with a slightly older man who is not emotionally involved. The young lady concerned picks a prince whom she secretly fancies - and he fancies her - but he is engaged so they can't start a relationship.
Not that this hinders them from having a relationship three years later.
At this time a threat has become apparent. Instead of the prince imposing discipline and training every potential warrior, we see some men are allowed to have weird exhibitionist orgies and this is supposed to be funny. In fact we have to suppose much of the story is intended as humour, because it doesn't make any sense. These people in a medieval world have blow-up dolls and blow-up sheep (one would tend to think they would have enough real sheep), and use the word plastic.
Each to his/her own. The author has clearly put a lot of work and fun into her fantasy world. This tale is for adults only due to mature romance scenes and strong language.
I read an e-ARC from the author. This is an unbiased review.
Not that this hinders them from having a relationship three years later.
At this time a threat has become apparent. Instead of the prince imposing discipline and training every potential warrior, we see some men are allowed to have weird exhibitionist orgies and this is supposed to be funny. In fact we have to suppose much of the story is intended as humour, because it doesn't make any sense. These people in a medieval world have blow-up dolls and blow-up sheep (one would tend to think they would have enough real sheep), and use the word plastic.
Each to his/her own. The author has clearly put a lot of work and fun into her fantasy world. This tale is for adults only due to mature romance scenes and strong language.
I read an e-ARC from the author. This is an unbiased review.
January 10, 2015
**I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)**
I've got no more of these books on my to read shelf and right now I can't think why not, so I have decided to screw my monthly book budget and splurge. Also I don't think anybody could understand how much i wanted to scream and shout that it was Briar and uthiel's daughter who got together with lizabeth and Adan's son, it made my heart fly.
So the main characters are kit and zander, zander is the character picked up from the previous book however both characters have strong connections to the story so far. Kit has known zander from being an early age and only now when she's 18and then 21 does she realise just how far her feelings for him go. She is a very strong and independent character who is extremely argumentative and stubborn. The threat is one that may risk her life however for one reason or another she can't seem to look past the fact that other people are being hurt and protect herself. That's where zander comes in, after falling out with kit when she was 18 he takes on the responsibility as her protected while she may be in danger. While in a confined space the couple have no choice but to be intimate in sharing a bed which leads to the couple to satisfy needs that have been present in both of them for a while now. We are witness to a few rather heated arguments and the make up sex that goes alongside as well as the thrills and spills of a disappearing girl and a reoccurring cat.
I absolutely loved the secondary characters old and new, we got a huge fight scene with the original questers seeking to save a friend and now their family as well as gnome children and children named after numbers, and a whole bumper selection of newbies.
The pacing was great adding more and more suspense leading up till the final moment keeping me waiting on the edge of my seat to find out the overall out come and whether or not our leading couple find enough in each other to drop other responsibilities and be together.
The story line was insanely good with more and more being added onto the simple premise of prophecies being laid out in the first few books I simply can't get enough. I love the characters and the way they are portrayed.
4 stars literally cannot wait for the next one and this author is quickly becoming one of my favourites one to look out for in future.
I've got no more of these books on my to read shelf and right now I can't think why not, so I have decided to screw my monthly book budget and splurge. Also I don't think anybody could understand how much i wanted to scream and shout that it was Briar and uthiel's daughter who got together with lizabeth and Adan's son, it made my heart fly.
So the main characters are kit and zander, zander is the character picked up from the previous book however both characters have strong connections to the story so far. Kit has known zander from being an early age and only now when she's 18and then 21 does she realise just how far her feelings for him go. She is a very strong and independent character who is extremely argumentative and stubborn. The threat is one that may risk her life however for one reason or another she can't seem to look past the fact that other people are being hurt and protect herself. That's where zander comes in, after falling out with kit when she was 18 he takes on the responsibility as her protected while she may be in danger. While in a confined space the couple have no choice but to be intimate in sharing a bed which leads to the couple to satisfy needs that have been present in both of them for a while now. We are witness to a few rather heated arguments and the make up sex that goes alongside as well as the thrills and spills of a disappearing girl and a reoccurring cat.
I absolutely loved the secondary characters old and new, we got a huge fight scene with the original questers seeking to save a friend and now their family as well as gnome children and children named after numbers, and a whole bumper selection of newbies.
The pacing was great adding more and more suspense leading up till the final moment keeping me waiting on the edge of my seat to find out the overall out come and whether or not our leading couple find enough in each other to drop other responsibilities and be together.
The story line was insanely good with more and more being added onto the simple premise of prophecies being laid out in the first few books I simply can't get enough. I love the characters and the way they are portrayed.
4 stars literally cannot wait for the next one and this author is quickly becoming one of my favourites one to look out for in future.
November 1, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
wow.. whats not to like about this book?!! First off it had me laughing so much, which I usually dont read books like that. But honestly enjoyed the antics of the gnomes. Ms Mansfield mad it a fun sexy read.. brava!
Fate as a way of working on its own terms, when you least expect it .. wham! Your life is changed. A house cat shifter that can weild a dagger better than most men, as picked her bff's brother to take her virginity. (Kit has always loved Zander btw) A heir to the throne and a warrior, called in to help with a family friends little maidenhead problem. (which btw Zan has always loved Kitrina)
So what happens when fate stirs the pot and adds a bit of magic and intrigue in the mix? A sexy barbarian with the job to keep a rogue alive. Of course said rogue doesnt believe she needs help and will test Zander's patience a few times.
I loved it! The story line.. As a dragon fetish!! But each and every character has a part that makes the book so much fun and enjoyable. Kit's mother will show what it means to mess with family a healer at heart a warrior in mind.
The sex is hot and yummie, the passion and love makes you say aw.. and the firey arguments make you smile. So come on it sink down it the warmth of Tamed by Fire.. enjoy.
October 11, 2018
This is a fantasy erotica novel that is well written with laugh out loud moments.
January 6, 2014
This is definitely an adults only book! Wow is there a lot of descriptive, hot, steamy sex! Sex is a huge part of this world. Sex and nudity is everywhere. The images in my head will be with me forever I'm afraid. Some of them are hilarious. I'll just say this, and you will know what I mean when you read the book, "Surprise!".
I really enjoyed reading this book. It has a little more sex in it than I usually read, but it is a main part of the story. There are some strange and hysterically funny sex scenes in this book that had me laughing out loud. It was actually a treat to read a book where not all of the sex scenes are written to be steamy, romantic, or erotic. The author apparently had some fun with these characters.
The story is actually really good. There are well developed characters in a nice fantasy quest style story. The book includes magic wielders, dragons, shapeshifters, trolls, gnomes, barbarians, elves, and so much more. There is never a dull moment in this book. The story is fun to read and never drags along at any point.
This book is a part of a series, but there was never a point where I was lost or confused even though I have not read the other books in the series. This book works well as a stand alone. I will most likely be seeking out the other books in this series because it was so fun to read. It made me laugh while keeping me interested in the story itself.
I recommend this book to adult readers that like a huge dose of sex with their fantasy stories. There is enough action to keep you hooked while there is enough romance to keep you hoping for the characters to be able to live happily ever after.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this ebook for reviewing purposes. Regardless, all opinions are my own. I was not required to leave a positive review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It has a little more sex in it than I usually read, but it is a main part of the story. There are some strange and hysterically funny sex scenes in this book that had me laughing out loud. It was actually a treat to read a book where not all of the sex scenes are written to be steamy, romantic, or erotic. The author apparently had some fun with these characters.
The story is actually really good. There are well developed characters in a nice fantasy quest style story. The book includes magic wielders, dragons, shapeshifters, trolls, gnomes, barbarians, elves, and so much more. There is never a dull moment in this book. The story is fun to read and never drags along at any point.
This book is a part of a series, but there was never a point where I was lost or confused even though I have not read the other books in the series. This book works well as a stand alone. I will most likely be seeking out the other books in this series because it was so fun to read. It made me laugh while keeping me interested in the story itself.
I recommend this book to adult readers that like a huge dose of sex with their fantasy stories. There is enough action to keep you hooked while there is enough romance to keep you hoping for the characters to be able to live happily ever after.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this ebook for reviewing purposes. Regardless, all opinions are my own. I was not required to leave a positive review.
December 30, 2014
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com***
Back to the Academy with the next generation.
This book is about the daughter of Briar and Uthiel and the son of Aden and Lizbeth. I really like the idea that now get their own story. But I didn't like it as much as the second or third book of the series.
In my opinion there was just too much family connections and too many kids. I completely lost track of who belongs to whom. And who's sister/parents/brother...
Also the mind changing of one of the minor characters irritated me a lot. One second she was the mean ex-fiancée and in the next second it was without doubt she was going to help the woman who was the reason of the break up. That is just too deliberate.
Still, I enjoyed reading it and when you can step over all the confusing family connections, it's a good fantasy book.
Back to the Academy with the next generation.
This book is about the daughter of Briar and Uthiel and the son of Aden and Lizbeth. I really like the idea that now get their own story. But I didn't like it as much as the second or third book of the series.
In my opinion there was just too much family connections and too many kids. I completely lost track of who belongs to whom. And who's sister/parents/brother...
Also the mind changing of one of the minor characters irritated me a lot. One second she was the mean ex-fiancée and in the next second it was without doubt she was going to help the woman who was the reason of the break up. That is just too deliberate.
Still, I enjoyed reading it and when you can step over all the confusing family connections, it's a good fantasy book.
April 28, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review LoP (Lovers of Paranormal)
What can I say about this book? I loved the way it started out with the next generation of kids. It feels like there is a history of friends and family now. Zander and Kitrina is a good match and I liked the friction between them. Of course, they can’t keep their hands off each other. The sex is a huge part of this series and very graphic, but great.
Again, the gnomes were up to their strange antics. They are so funny, but I found Leeky’s son a little disturbing though. All in all it was an interesting read. The adventure, love, sex, friendship and of course, a nasty villain were all present. I did find the story a little predictable and think the author should keep a little more hidden for the reader to discover.
What can I say about this book? I loved the way it started out with the next generation of kids. It feels like there is a history of friends and family now. Zander and Kitrina is a good match and I liked the friction between them. Of course, they can’t keep their hands off each other. The sex is a huge part of this series and very graphic, but great.
Again, the gnomes were up to their strange antics. They are so funny, but I found Leeky’s son a little disturbing though. All in all it was an interesting read. The adventure, love, sex, friendship and of course, a nasty villain were all present. I did find the story a little predictable and think the author should keep a little more hidden for the reader to discover.
April 24, 2014
This story picks up with the first born child (Zander) of the previous book who is now 23 years old and asked to deflower Kit, the daughter of a couple from another of the previous books. Kit is in love with Zander but he is destined to become King of the Barbarians and she is destined to marry someone the stone picks for her who will become head protector of the Dragons. Love finds a way when they can't keep their hands off each other and we romp through numerous pages of erotica. Story is very predictable and pretty much follows the same path as the previous generation. Love at first f* - seduction.
Characters are cardboard and stereotypical. Needs editing for story and grammatical errors.
If your into "true love", destiny, romance and nonsense then you should enjoy this.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
Characters are cardboard and stereotypical. Needs editing for story and grammatical errors.
If your into "true love", destiny, romance and nonsense then you should enjoy this.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2016
I thought this book was hilarious.
Uncle Leeky was funny in his 'what the hell' descriptions.
Her cousin, Pierced Shortz, was truly disturbing but his unusual character only added to the humour.
Now, while I'm not so sure about being 'deflowered' being a thing to be celebrated (especially from 15years of age), it flowed well with the story.
Zander and Kit were on fire together, and their chemistry was off the charts hot. The steamy scenes between these two were graphic, but not too over the top like some stories I've read.
I loved how the characters were afraid that their lineage made their love for each other seem impossible, but they didn't let that stop them. Their feeling went deeper than the physical and it showed in their connection.
I'm glad to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would.
Uncle Leeky was funny in his 'what the hell' descriptions.
Her cousin, Pierced Shortz, was truly disturbing but his unusual character only added to the humour.
Now, while I'm not so sure about being 'deflowered' being a thing to be celebrated (especially from 15years of age), it flowed well with the story.
Zander and Kit were on fire together, and their chemistry was off the charts hot. The steamy scenes between these two were graphic, but not too over the top like some stories I've read.
I loved how the characters were afraid that their lineage made their love for each other seem impossible, but they didn't let that stop them. Their feeling went deeper than the physical and it showed in their connection.
I'm glad to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would.
May 1, 2014
I was given this book by the author and Goodreads LOP in exchange for an honest review .Magic,dragons,barbarians ,humans,trolls, dwarfs and elf there are lots of different paranormal beings in this book ,all well written with vibrant and interesting personalities.I really enjoyed this book from beginning to end. Kitrina and Zander's journey is full of magic adventure and passion a page turner you wont want to put down .This is the fourth book in this series but can stand on its own .This was a very fresh and imaginative story .The only aspect I didn't care for was Leeky's run on descriptions they were a little long for my taste .I would reccommend this to other adult paranormal/fantasy readers .
March 8, 2016
What an amazing book!! This is the first book I've read in the series and I am absolutely in love!! I received an ARC for an honest review. I loved the little sayings Uncle Leeky used to start his conversations. They got more and more complex and hilarious! This story developed so seamlessly and the characters were so complex! I loved Zander and Kit. I love the idea that her shape shifting ability was a factor and catalyst for the final commander. Overall I loved the book! I am eager to go back and start the series at the beginning and see more characters and learn about them...eager to read about Mia and her struggle she will now face. Fun book!!
January 9, 2014
"4 out of 5 stars, a girl who has loved her best friends older brother throughout her whole life learns that her feelings/hopes/dreams are reciprocated but--because of who they are and their duties--they can never be fulfilled .... or can they?
This is a great addition to The Academy series by Ms. Mansfield!"
Read more of this review, an excerpt, and two teasers here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2014/01/blog-tour-feasted-on-tamed-by-fire-by.html
This is a great addition to The Academy series by Ms. Mansfield!"
Read more of this review, an excerpt, and two teasers here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2014/01/blog-tour-feasted-on-tamed-by-fire-by.html
April 26, 2014
Book provided by the author.
A well written exciting adventure with an imaginative plot and some interesting, sexy, and some disturbing, characters.
I was hooked until the end and I'm looking forward to the next in the series, although the images leeky or pierced conjure may haunt me for quite a while lol.
Book provided through the LoP group R2R program
A well written exciting adventure with an imaginative plot and some interesting, sexy, and some disturbing, characters.
I was hooked until the end and I'm looking forward to the next in the series, although the images leeky or pierced conjure may haunt me for quite a while lol.
Book provided through the LoP group R2R program
May 18, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review Lovers of Paranormal.
I really enjoyed this book. Kit and Zander come from different world. Kit is destiny to marry the man who the Dragon Heart Opal breaks for and Zander is destiny to marry a barbarian to become king. I really like how the dragons became a part of the book. I look forward to the next book.
I really enjoyed this book. Kit and Zander come from different world. Kit is destiny to marry the man who the Dragon Heart Opal breaks for and Zander is destiny to marry a barbarian to become king. I really like how the dragons became a part of the book. I look forward to the next book.
December 23, 2013
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
August 14, 2022
I really loved the feminism in this world building. I thoroughly enjoyed Zander's and Kit's story. I'm looking forward to Mia's.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews