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Entwined Realms #2
The Dream Crafter
A Legendary Spellbook. Everyone desires it, but he controls it.
The most feared mercenary in the New Realms, Merc takes what he thinks is a routine job – guarding a magic spellbook until a secret auction takes place, one where only the most powerful and influential will have the opportunity to bid. But one moment of carelessness makes this job the most personal he has ever had, and if that wasn’t enough, his dreams are being invaded by a woman who his every instinct warns is trouble, but he can’t stop wanting.
A Legendary Power. Everyone covets it, but can she master it?
One moment of terror took away Amana’s security and her brother’s freedom. Now her life is doing whatever she must to survive, all the while trying to find the way to release her brother from prison. Her answer comes in an offer from the Guild, but the cost is high – using a power she has kept locked away on a man who terrifies her even as he fascinates her.
As the auction draws ever closer, Merc and Amana are drawn into a game of cat-and-mouse, captor and captive as they battle for control, even as they work together to thwart the various factions who are willing to do anything to collect the spellbook for themselves. While grudging respect and mutual desire begin to shape their relationship, in the end, only one can prevail. What will be the ultimate decision, when the price of victory means the end to the other’s dearest dream?
The most feared mercenary in the New Realms, Merc takes what he thinks is a routine job – guarding a magic spellbook until a secret auction takes place, one where only the most powerful and influential will have the opportunity to bid. But one moment of carelessness makes this job the most personal he has ever had, and if that wasn’t enough, his dreams are being invaded by a woman who his every instinct warns is trouble, but he can’t stop wanting.
A Legendary Power. Everyone covets it, but can she master it?
One moment of terror took away Amana’s security and her brother’s freedom. Now her life is doing whatever she must to survive, all the while trying to find the way to release her brother from prison. Her answer comes in an offer from the Guild, but the cost is high – using a power she has kept locked away on a man who terrifies her even as he fascinates her.
As the auction draws ever closer, Merc and Amana are drawn into a game of cat-and-mouse, captor and captive as they battle for control, even as they work together to thwart the various factions who are willing to do anything to collect the spellbook for themselves. While grudging respect and mutual desire begin to shape their relationship, in the end, only one can prevail. What will be the ultimate decision, when the price of victory means the end to the other’s dearest dream?
340 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2014
22 people are currently reading
715 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Monsch
23 books374 followersBorn to the pothole ridden streets of Pittsburgh, PA, USA Today Bestselling author Danielle Monsch started writing in a time long ago, a time when there were not enough vampire stories to read and she had to write her own to fill the void. Yes, such a time of darkness did indeed exist.
Danielle writes stories full of fantastical goodness and plenty of action, but always with lots of romance (and a bit of woo-hoo!) mixed in. Vampires and Werewolves and Demons and Angels, Sword & Sorcery, Fairy Tales, Updated Mythologies and the like - if it's out of the ordinary, it's fair game for her stories.
When not writing, Danielle reads comic books and watches cartoons (though she says she reads manga and watches anime, because saying it in a different language makes all the difference.) She listens to music, plays D&D, follows XKCD, watches movies with the Rifftrax on, and is mom to two amazing little girls and wife to her favorite guy in the world.
You can find Dani at www.DanielleMonsch.com, www.facebook.com/DanielleMonschAuthor, www.twitter.com/Danielle_Monsch, and can email her at Dani@DanielleMonsch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 19, 2025
Merc has a spellbook and lots of people want it. Somehow a bottom feeder, Hadrien has spelled Merc to deliver the book to him or Merc will die. The Guild wants the book so bad they will even let Amana’s brother free if she helps them get it. I’m sure you get the point, its powerful and those who covet power want it.
Amana is a dream crafter and the guild has solicited Amana to use her abilities to obtain the book from a mercenary. It just so happens that the mercenary in question is the same man she has been slowly falling in love with in her dreams already. Who said that fate isn’t fickle? Dream crafters can actually change reality within a dream so it makes Amana a pretty powerful being herself, if she obtains the book in Merc’s dreams then the man she is coming to love will die.
The problem is, once Amana’s abilities are made known, the power hungry want her too. For years any Dream Crafter has been eliminated because they feared their power equals the gods.
Starting this series at book 3 didn’t inhibit my enjoyment of The Dream Crafter in any way. Although after reading Merc’s and Amana’s, I would absolutely recommend any of Danielle Monsch storytelling and starting this series at the beginning.
Monsch creates a rich world of magic, mystery and power to envelop the reader. I really enjoyed Merc’s and Amana’s dream/relationship as well has their ability to grow and transform for each other.
I received this copy of The Dream Crafter from Danielle Monsch in exchange for a honest review.
Amana is a dream crafter and the guild has solicited Amana to use her abilities to obtain the book from a mercenary. It just so happens that the mercenary in question is the same man she has been slowly falling in love with in her dreams already. Who said that fate isn’t fickle? Dream crafters can actually change reality within a dream so it makes Amana a pretty powerful being herself, if she obtains the book in Merc’s dreams then the man she is coming to love will die.
The problem is, once Amana’s abilities are made known, the power hungry want her too. For years any Dream Crafter has been eliminated because they feared their power equals the gods.
Starting this series at book 3 didn’t inhibit my enjoyment of The Dream Crafter in any way. Although after reading Merc’s and Amana’s, I would absolutely recommend any of Danielle Monsch storytelling and starting this series at the beginning.
Monsch creates a rich world of magic, mystery and power to envelop the reader. I really enjoyed Merc’s and Amana’s dream/relationship as well has their ability to grow and transform for each other.
I received this copy of The Dream Crafter from Danielle Monsch in exchange for a honest review.
October 5, 2015
In this much awaited sequel to Stone Guardian, Monsch once again delivers a fantastic story that blends paranormal romance and urban fantasy seamlessly.
In this installment, Amana and Merc are brought together for one common goal -- to obtain a book. Not just any book, The Spellbook, the one thing that each and every magic user covets and would do anything to possess. Merc, a mercenary working for no one, has been tasked by Hadrien to guard and deliver the book. Conditionally, of course. If Merc doesn't physically place the book in Hadrien's hands in a specific timeframe, a spell that's been placed upon him will deliver the promised consequences of the spell. Amana is after the book for a very different reason -- possessing a power she's spent the entirety of her life hiding from the world, the Guild has gotten word of what she is. Amana is a rare and much unheard of Dream Crafter -- a powerful being with the ability to both infiltrate dreams and take away physical items from them. The Guild is banking on this power to gain possession of this book, using Amana's brother and his incarceration and potential freedom as their bargaining chip. Amana is unfailingly loyal to her brother, as he is the only thing she really has in this new and broken world. She knows the dangers of using her power and revealing what she is, but with a chance at having her brother back at her side, she knows she can't say no and that's exactly what Laire, Fallon, and the rest of the Guild are riding on.
In The Dream Crafter, Monsch dives a little deeper into this new, entwined world that she introduced with the first installment in this series. My one and only grievance with Stone Guardian was the fact that there was quite a fair amount of detail given to the Great Collision, but I wanted more. And Monsch delivered. Not only is there more explanation of exactly how the normal and magical realms collided, but how it affected the people is revealed a bit more in depth. People who were once just 'normal' now have powers that they couldn't even fathom before the Great Collision and it's really interesting seeing how each person now adapts, or doesn't, to their current situation. Some, like Amana, choose to hide their powers and give the illusion of still being normal while others, like Nakoa, are still trying and failing to both accept their newfound powers and gain control of them.
As I said before, Monsch manages to balance both the paranormal romance and the urban fantasy genres seamlessly in this series. While there is quite a strong romantic element, there's the storyline centering around the Guild that ensures this story isn't just a straight paranormal romance story. Both elements are equally strong, without one overshadowing the other, and that's one of my favorite aspects. She also manages to incorporate some characters that have been just hinted at, or quickly introduced, in previously published novellas of this series. In The Rooftop, Monsch introduced Reign, the Master Vampire, and in this story, he plays a much bigger role. It will certainly be interesting to see how he factors in to future stories in this series and hopefully, those stories involve him and Fallon. Together. Fallon is one strong fighter and she can only be involved with someone of equal strength, and hopefully it's Reign. Or even Laire because honestly, I'm not sure what team she plays for. Probably both, which makes her even more interesting, if that's even possible.
Bottom line -- Monsch's Entwined Realms series is one of those rarities that could appeal to both lovers of urban fantasy and lovers of paranormal romance. There are elements of both and yet, they are balanced so nicely that this series could fit into either category. I was waiting quite impatiently for this second installment and was rewarded with a story that was even better than the first, which was quite good in its own right. I just hope Danielle doesn't keep fans waiting as long with the third installment of this series, because it's really just that good :)
**Many thanks to the author for providing an arc in exchange for my honest review.
Release date is a few weeks away :)
And a heads-up: Danielle is offering this for .99 for the first 3 days after release as her kind and sweet way of saying "sorry about the wait...". After the first 3 days, price goes up to 5.99. So keep your eyes peeled, or sign up for her newsletter to be alerted when it releases.
In this installment, Amana and Merc are brought together for one common goal -- to obtain a book. Not just any book, The Spellbook, the one thing that each and every magic user covets and would do anything to possess. Merc, a mercenary working for no one, has been tasked by Hadrien to guard and deliver the book. Conditionally, of course. If Merc doesn't physically place the book in Hadrien's hands in a specific timeframe, a spell that's been placed upon him will deliver the promised consequences of the spell. Amana is after the book for a very different reason -- possessing a power she's spent the entirety of her life hiding from the world, the Guild has gotten word of what she is. Amana is a rare and much unheard of Dream Crafter -- a powerful being with the ability to both infiltrate dreams and take away physical items from them. The Guild is banking on this power to gain possession of this book, using Amana's brother and his incarceration and potential freedom as their bargaining chip. Amana is unfailingly loyal to her brother, as he is the only thing she really has in this new and broken world. She knows the dangers of using her power and revealing what she is, but with a chance at having her brother back at her side, she knows she can't say no and that's exactly what Laire, Fallon, and the rest of the Guild are riding on.
In The Dream Crafter, Monsch dives a little deeper into this new, entwined world that she introduced with the first installment in this series. My one and only grievance with Stone Guardian was the fact that there was quite a fair amount of detail given to the Great Collision, but I wanted more. And Monsch delivered. Not only is there more explanation of exactly how the normal and magical realms collided, but how it affected the people is revealed a bit more in depth. People who were once just 'normal' now have powers that they couldn't even fathom before the Great Collision and it's really interesting seeing how each person now adapts, or doesn't, to their current situation. Some, like Amana, choose to hide their powers and give the illusion of still being normal while others, like Nakoa, are still trying and failing to both accept their newfound powers and gain control of them.
As I said before, Monsch manages to balance both the paranormal romance and the urban fantasy genres seamlessly in this series. While there is quite a strong romantic element, there's the storyline centering around the Guild that ensures this story isn't just a straight paranormal romance story. Both elements are equally strong, without one overshadowing the other, and that's one of my favorite aspects. She also manages to incorporate some characters that have been just hinted at, or quickly introduced, in previously published novellas of this series. In The Rooftop, Monsch introduced Reign, the Master Vampire, and in this story, he plays a much bigger role. It will certainly be interesting to see how he factors in to future stories in this series and hopefully, those stories involve him and Fallon. Together. Fallon is one strong fighter and she can only be involved with someone of equal strength, and hopefully it's Reign. Or even Laire because honestly, I'm not sure what team she plays for. Probably both, which makes her even more interesting, if that's even possible.
Bottom line -- Monsch's Entwined Realms series is one of those rarities that could appeal to both lovers of urban fantasy and lovers of paranormal romance. There are elements of both and yet, they are balanced so nicely that this series could fit into either category. I was waiting quite impatiently for this second installment and was rewarded with a story that was even better than the first, which was quite good in its own right. I just hope Danielle doesn't keep fans waiting as long with the third installment of this series, because it's really just that good :)
**Many thanks to the author for providing an arc in exchange for my honest review.
Release date is a few weeks away :)
And a heads-up: Danielle is offering this for .99 for the first 3 days after release as her kind and sweet way of saying "sorry about the wait...". After the first 3 days, price goes up to 5.99. So keep your eyes peeled, or sign up for her newsletter to be alerted when it releases.
November 11, 2015
I gave it 3.5 stars
A lot of action, a sexy romance and a world full of interesting is waiting for you between the pages of THE DREAM CRAFTER.
Amana is a very rare Dream Crafter who has no idea how to use her powers or what they mean for her and her future. Merc is an extremely powerful and feared mercenary in a bit of a bind. He has a very sought after spellbook and he never expected the beautiful woman in his dreams to steal it right from underneath him. Amana and Merc have a bit of insta-love going on before they officially meet in person and then the crap hits the fan. They end up on the run together (well she is kinda kidnapped, but what does that matter? lol) and the connection never wanes, but it takes them a bit of time to get comfortable and hot with each other.
The world is pretty neat and filled with all different types of people. The story flowed nicely from scene-to-scene, but there were quite a few things that were a little too easy for my liking. I was really hoping to get some sort of update from the couple in book one, Larissa and Terak, I would have loved to see how they are doing. We do get to see a few familiar faces, but I really hope to see all the couples in the same book at some point in the Entwined Realms series.
I think the Entwined Realms series has a nice blend of fantasy and romance going on and I plan on following it into book 3.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A lot of action, a sexy romance and a world full of interesting is waiting for you between the pages of THE DREAM CRAFTER.
Amana is a very rare Dream Crafter who has no idea how to use her powers or what they mean for her and her future. Merc is an extremely powerful and feared mercenary in a bit of a bind. He has a very sought after spellbook and he never expected the beautiful woman in his dreams to steal it right from underneath him. Amana and Merc have a bit of insta-love going on before they officially meet in person and then the crap hits the fan. They end up on the run together (well she is kinda kidnapped, but what does that matter? lol) and the connection never wanes, but it takes them a bit of time to get comfortable and hot with each other.
The world is pretty neat and filled with all different types of people. The story flowed nicely from scene-to-scene, but there were quite a few things that were a little too easy for my liking. I was really hoping to get some sort of update from the couple in book one, Larissa and Terak, I would have loved to see how they are doing. We do get to see a few familiar faces, but I really hope to see all the couples in the same book at some point in the Entwined Realms series.
I think the Entwined Realms series has a nice blend of fantasy and romance going on and I plan on following it into book 3.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
October 12, 2015It's FINALLY HERE!!!
February 23, 2016
I'm very conflicted about this book. I really like the story and the characters and the species that the author is using, and the mystery is bloody amazing. However I found the writing and the editing, rather sloppy. There were grammatical errors, and repetition of redundant words, and sometimes there was just a messed up syntax, that made me read more than once a sentence or a paragraph.
Aside from that, I still found Ms. Monsch's world absolutely fantastic! The plots, and sub-plots, and Fallon's manipulation of the whole situation with plans A, B, C etc was very intriguing and well thought. A lot of new characters got introduced - or at least that's how I felt.
I'm unsure my curiosity will allow me to go for the next book. It's all good and nice, and awesome, but we're 3.5 (4) books in, and still no real purpose. Only conspiracy to conspiracy, to another twist of events. I might have missed but yeah, okay, some purpose, some point in this whole struggle. I'm not sure it's necromancers anymore.
We'll see.
Aside from that, I still found Ms. Monsch's world absolutely fantastic! The plots, and sub-plots, and Fallon's manipulation of the whole situation with plans A, B, C etc was very intriguing and well thought. A lot of new characters got introduced - or at least that's how I felt.
I'm unsure my curiosity will allow me to go for the next book. It's all good and nice, and awesome, but we're 3.5 (4) books in, and still no real purpose. Only conspiracy to conspiracy, to another twist of events. I might have missed but yeah, okay, some purpose, some point in this whole struggle. I'm not sure it's necromancers anymore.
We'll see.
October 9, 2015
I love this series. I think the world building is creative and is open for all sorts of story lines. The characters are so enjoyable. We’ve been waiting awhile for this second book and I tried really, really hard not to read it in one day but the best I could make myself do was two days. Now the wait beings again. MORE PLEASE!
This second novel in the Entwined Realms series focuses on a mercenary named Merc. The Guild wants to get their hands on Merc, or more particularly, what Merc is holding. Merc was able to obtain an object known as The Spellbook when the Guild’s vault was breached in Book 1, Stone Guadian, and hundreds of dangerous magical items were stolen.
Somehow a lowlife named Hadrien was able to put a Bound on Merc. The Bound requires that Merc to deliver the Spellbook to Hadrien at a specific time, or he will die. Obviously, whether or not he wants to work for Hadrian, Merc has no choice but to deliver the Spellbook to him. What Merc never expected was to be betrayed by the only person who has been able to get under his defenses and catch his interest.
Since she was a child, Amana has been able to visit people in dreams. When she walked into the dream of a man with such lovely eyes and a soul-deep kindness, there was an instant connection. She has never been interested enough to attempt to try to find someone she met in dreams, but this man she has to see again.
Amana is a Dream Crafter, but she never heard the term before the Guild came to see her. A Dream Crafter doesn’t just walk in someone’s dream and observe. They can do more than just affect the dream world. A Dream Crafter’s actions can use dreams to affect the real world as well.
The Guild wants something from Amana. They want it bad enough that they will set Amana’s brother free from his imprisonment, but she has to do something for them first. She has to go into the dream of a mercenary and steal a book from him. As the Oracle would say, there are no coincidences. Amana is devastated to find that mercenary just happens to be the man who is stealing her heart in the dreamscape. Amana will have to betray the man who could have been her future in order to save her brother.
She has no choice but to go to Merc again in his dream and this time steal the book, but by doing so, she sets off a chain of events that will have all the wrong people focusing on something more valuable than a powerful Spellbook — a Dream Crafter. Dream Crafters were killed off a long time ago because their powers rivaled the gods. To capture and control a Dream Crafter would make you a deadly opponent and nothing would be out of your reach.
Can Merc forgive Amana for her betrayal? More importantly, can he steal back and deliver the Spellbook in time to save himself from the Bound and still keep Amana safe from every lowlife scum looking to capture an ultimate power?
THOUGHTS:
I just love this series. The world building of the Great Collision, smashing our dimension with that of a world of magic and fantasy, was so creative and clever. It truly opens this series up to any possible story line. We have been waiting for the second book to be released so I tried really, really hard not to read it too fast but I just couldn’t help myself. What are you supposed to do once you start a good book? Stop? Then I would just keep thinking about it anyway.
I would put Merc under my favorite category of damaged heroes even though he technically doesn’t fit. Merc isn’t damaged so much as misunderstood. Merc is a big, scary, dangerous-looking mercenary and most people are smart enough keep their distance from him. But underneath it all, Merc is just lonely. He doesn’t trust many people and with the exception of some loyal friends, no one takes the time to see the gooey, sweet guy inside. When Merc meets Amana in his dream, she sees this right away and wants to find him again. Merc thinks she is just a dream but he misses her just the same. When they meet again the next night, Merc and Amana are both floored by their connection, that’s why Merc is so hurt by her betrayal. To be fair, Amana has no idea that Merc has a Bound on him to deliver the book. Amana has been trying for a decade to free her brother from his prison so the Guild’s offer to free him is too much to pass up.
The Guild is a very important focus of these stories and many of the main characters of the series are part of the Guild. I thought it was interesting that the characters in all the books and novellas are always “Don’t trust the Guild.” In this one, we truly see why they say that. The Guild definitely have an underlying philosophy of “The ends justify the means.” Yes, the Spellbook is dangerous and needs to be locked away from the evil-doers who want to get their hands on it, but the Guild’s Plan B, C, D, E, etc. to get that book back no matter the consequences, kept putting Merc and Amana’s lives in serious peril. I was starting to question my own loyalty to the Guild.
The Merc/Amana connection was just so sweet. I loved them. There was a brief introduction of the characters which are part of the next book as well as a Fallon/Reign teaser. Love them! I really can’t wait to get to their story.
I love this series and can’t wait to read more.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
See more at http://EBookObsessed.com
This second novel in the Entwined Realms series focuses on a mercenary named Merc. The Guild wants to get their hands on Merc, or more particularly, what Merc is holding. Merc was able to obtain an object known as The Spellbook when the Guild’s vault was breached in Book 1, Stone Guadian, and hundreds of dangerous magical items were stolen.
Somehow a lowlife named Hadrien was able to put a Bound on Merc. The Bound requires that Merc to deliver the Spellbook to Hadrien at a specific time, or he will die. Obviously, whether or not he wants to work for Hadrian, Merc has no choice but to deliver the Spellbook to him. What Merc never expected was to be betrayed by the only person who has been able to get under his defenses and catch his interest.
Since she was a child, Amana has been able to visit people in dreams. When she walked into the dream of a man with such lovely eyes and a soul-deep kindness, there was an instant connection. She has never been interested enough to attempt to try to find someone she met in dreams, but this man she has to see again.
Amana is a Dream Crafter, but she never heard the term before the Guild came to see her. A Dream Crafter doesn’t just walk in someone’s dream and observe. They can do more than just affect the dream world. A Dream Crafter’s actions can use dreams to affect the real world as well.
The Guild wants something from Amana. They want it bad enough that they will set Amana’s brother free from his imprisonment, but she has to do something for them first. She has to go into the dream of a mercenary and steal a book from him. As the Oracle would say, there are no coincidences. Amana is devastated to find that mercenary just happens to be the man who is stealing her heart in the dreamscape. Amana will have to betray the man who could have been her future in order to save her brother.
She has no choice but to go to Merc again in his dream and this time steal the book, but by doing so, she sets off a chain of events that will have all the wrong people focusing on something more valuable than a powerful Spellbook — a Dream Crafter. Dream Crafters were killed off a long time ago because their powers rivaled the gods. To capture and control a Dream Crafter would make you a deadly opponent and nothing would be out of your reach.
Can Merc forgive Amana for her betrayal? More importantly, can he steal back and deliver the Spellbook in time to save himself from the Bound and still keep Amana safe from every lowlife scum looking to capture an ultimate power?
THOUGHTS:
I just love this series. The world building of the Great Collision, smashing our dimension with that of a world of magic and fantasy, was so creative and clever. It truly opens this series up to any possible story line. We have been waiting for the second book to be released so I tried really, really hard not to read it too fast but I just couldn’t help myself. What are you supposed to do once you start a good book? Stop? Then I would just keep thinking about it anyway.
I would put Merc under my favorite category of damaged heroes even though he technically doesn’t fit. Merc isn’t damaged so much as misunderstood. Merc is a big, scary, dangerous-looking mercenary and most people are smart enough keep their distance from him. But underneath it all, Merc is just lonely. He doesn’t trust many people and with the exception of some loyal friends, no one takes the time to see the gooey, sweet guy inside. When Merc meets Amana in his dream, she sees this right away and wants to find him again. Merc thinks she is just a dream but he misses her just the same. When they meet again the next night, Merc and Amana are both floored by their connection, that’s why Merc is so hurt by her betrayal. To be fair, Amana has no idea that Merc has a Bound on him to deliver the book. Amana has been trying for a decade to free her brother from his prison so the Guild’s offer to free him is too much to pass up.
The Guild is a very important focus of these stories and many of the main characters of the series are part of the Guild. I thought it was interesting that the characters in all the books and novellas are always “Don’t trust the Guild.” In this one, we truly see why they say that. The Guild definitely have an underlying philosophy of “The ends justify the means.” Yes, the Spellbook is dangerous and needs to be locked away from the evil-doers who want to get their hands on it, but the Guild’s Plan B, C, D, E, etc. to get that book back no matter the consequences, kept putting Merc and Amana’s lives in serious peril. I was starting to question my own loyalty to the Guild.
The Merc/Amana connection was just so sweet. I loved them. There was a brief introduction of the characters which are part of the next book as well as a Fallon/Reign teaser. Love them! I really can’t wait to get to their story.
I love this series and can’t wait to read more.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
See more at http://EBookObsessed.com
February 2, 2016
This is the third full length book in Danielle's Entwined Realm series. (The book numbering series is throwing me off - Amazon has this has 5 and GR as 2). In publishing order is Stone Guardian, The Cage King and then this book. Anyway, this book could be read as a stand alone but the world building is really explained in the first book so I recommend reading at least that one before this one. I really enjoyed Stone Guardian but wasn't as crazy about Cage King so I wasn't sure what to think about this one. I'm so glad that I read this book - I thoroughly enjoyed it and finished it very quickly.
This book ceners around Amana and Merc. They are both after a powerful spell book. Merc, who is a mercenary has been tasked by Hadrien to deliver the book and somehow he was able to place a bind on Merc so that if he doesn't deliver the book into his hands he will have to face the consequences. Amana is after the book for a very different reason. Amana has the power to enter dreams and not only control them but to bring objects out of a dream into her physical world. The Guild knows what she is and is blackmailing her to get the book in return for freeing her brother from prison. Amana has been hiding her ability her entire life and doesn't like to use it but her brother is her whole world and she will do anything to free him.
This is a fast paced book with a sweet romance between the two characters. As with all of Danielle's heroines Amana is a very strong woman. She uses her wits and intellect to handle most situations but can also take care of herself. The H/h have somewhat of an instant connection and the romance is sweet and fun (although I wish it would have been drawn out a bit more before they trusted each other so quickly).
I like the world that Danielle has created and I'm intrigued by the overall story arc although I wish that we had more information about the different factions and what they want to achieve. My biggest issue which takes this book from 5 stars to 4 stars is that I am having a hard time keeping all the characters straight in my head. (I NEED A GLOSSARY OF WHO IS WHO). Part of this I think is because the books had quite a long time in between and part is that a lot of characters are introduced quickly and briefly. I also miss the connection to the human realm - it seems the last two books have taken place on a magical realm vs the original one in Stone Guardian.
However, with all that said Danielle does a great job of balancing an urban fantasy type feel with a paranormal romance feel. The storyline featuring the Guild is intriguing and gives this book a bit of a UF feel and they work well together without one overpowering the other. She has introduced some very intriguing characters (specifically Reign) and of course Fallon with just enough hints to have me clamoring for more of a story between those two.
Final Thoughts - This was a great edition to the series that will appeal to both UF and PNR fans. I'm looking forward to the next book and waiting impatiently for more. Thank goodness the wait won't be as long since the next book is scheduled for March!
Thanks to the author for providing this book in return for a fair review.
This book ceners around Amana and Merc. They are both after a powerful spell book. Merc, who is a mercenary has been tasked by Hadrien to deliver the book and somehow he was able to place a bind on Merc so that if he doesn't deliver the book into his hands he will have to face the consequences. Amana is after the book for a very different reason. Amana has the power to enter dreams and not only control them but to bring objects out of a dream into her physical world. The Guild knows what she is and is blackmailing her to get the book in return for freeing her brother from prison. Amana has been hiding her ability her entire life and doesn't like to use it but her brother is her whole world and she will do anything to free him.
This is a fast paced book with a sweet romance between the two characters. As with all of Danielle's heroines Amana is a very strong woman. She uses her wits and intellect to handle most situations but can also take care of herself. The H/h have somewhat of an instant connection and the romance is sweet and fun (although I wish it would have been drawn out a bit more before they trusted each other so quickly).
I like the world that Danielle has created and I'm intrigued by the overall story arc although I wish that we had more information about the different factions and what they want to achieve. My biggest issue which takes this book from 5 stars to 4 stars is that I am having a hard time keeping all the characters straight in my head. (I NEED A GLOSSARY OF WHO IS WHO). Part of this I think is because the books had quite a long time in between and part is that a lot of characters are introduced quickly and briefly. I also miss the connection to the human realm - it seems the last two books have taken place on a magical realm vs the original one in Stone Guardian.
However, with all that said Danielle does a great job of balancing an urban fantasy type feel with a paranormal romance feel. The storyline featuring the Guild is intriguing and gives this book a bit of a UF feel and they work well together without one overpowering the other. She has introduced some very intriguing characters (specifically Reign) and of course Fallon with just enough hints to have me clamoring for more of a story between those two.
Final Thoughts - This was a great edition to the series that will appeal to both UF and PNR fans. I'm looking forward to the next book and waiting impatiently for more. Thank goodness the wait won't be as long since the next book is scheduled for March!
Thanks to the author for providing this book in return for a fair review.
January 25, 2016
The Dream Crafter is the 5th installment and 2nd full length novel in the Entwined Realms series. Merc, a powerful mercenary has agreed to obtain an even more powerful spellbook (so powerful it is known only as the Spellbook – much like Madonna, Cher and Prince) and deliver it to a little weasel named Hadrien who intends to sell it at auction – make a shit ton of money and climb to the top of the food chain. Actually “agreed” it a little misleading – because apparently Merc has some sort of magic bound on him and if he doesn’t deliver the book to the weasel at the appointed time then he bites the dust. The Guild is not happy about these events and decides to enlist Amana – the only living, and fairly clueless dream caster to waltz into Merc’s dreams and snatch the Spellbook. Of course things never go as planned.
The Dream Caster is about 60% romance and 40% story. I would rate the story a solid 4 stars, but the romance brought it down to 3 for me – so I’m going with 3 1/2 and rounding up to 4…just because. My issue with the romance – much like my issue with the romance in the first full length volume (Stone Guardian) is that it’s just too…sweet. Merc and Amana are both very nice people. Amana is smart and capable; and Merc is a complete gentleman, strong and formidable yet solicitous and respectful – in short – a cross between gag me with a spoon and a snooze-fest.
The best part of the story for me was catching up with my favorite sword wielding, ass kicking character of the long red hair and the all black attire and the “I will fuck you up” attitude – Fallon (and her sidekick Laire). When the Guild’s plans to use Amana to get the Spellbook go tits up, the next course of action is to enlist the Master Vampire Reign and his minions. Again there are some tantalizing, teasing hints about a possible relationship of some sort between Fallon and the evil in an incredibly hot way Reign – and all he asks for in return for helping the Guild is to touch Fallon’s sword. THAT is the story I’m waiting for and I will read my way through every Entwined Realm story flung in my path to get there!
The Dream Caster is about 60% romance and 40% story. I would rate the story a solid 4 stars, but the romance brought it down to 3 for me – so I’m going with 3 1/2 and rounding up to 4…just because. My issue with the romance – much like my issue with the romance in the first full length volume (Stone Guardian) is that it’s just too…sweet. Merc and Amana are both very nice people. Amana is smart and capable; and Merc is a complete gentleman, strong and formidable yet solicitous and respectful – in short – a cross between gag me with a spoon and a snooze-fest.
The best part of the story for me was catching up with my favorite sword wielding, ass kicking character of the long red hair and the all black attire and the “I will fuck you up” attitude – Fallon (and her sidekick Laire). When the Guild’s plans to use Amana to get the Spellbook go tits up, the next course of action is to enlist the Master Vampire Reign and his minions. Again there are some tantalizing, teasing hints about a possible relationship of some sort between Fallon and the evil in an incredibly hot way Reign – and all he asks for in return for helping the Guild is to touch Fallon’s sword. THAT is the story I’m waiting for and I will read my way through every Entwined Realm story flung in my path to get there!
November 28, 2015
4.5 stars
Overall a great story. I admit, I was a little lost at first as it had been so long since I had read the first book, Stone Guardian, but it was a lot of fun getting to know some of the side characters again.
I loved Merc and Amana, Merc especially with all of his tattoos and badassery. And all the action going on kept pulling me back to their world even as the real world left me less and less time to read. I loved the two of them together and they had good chemistry. However, it did take a bit to really feel the heat from them, something I had no trouble with in Stone Guardian, though I could just be biased as I loved that book immensely.
All in all, this solidified my love of the series, and the presence of so many side characters in the book, made me crave all of their stories too (I'm still desperately waiting for Fallon's book).
Overall a great story. I admit, I was a little lost at first as it had been so long since I had read the first book, Stone Guardian, but it was a lot of fun getting to know some of the side characters again.
I loved Merc and Amana, Merc especially with all of his tattoos and badassery. And all the action going on kept pulling me back to their world even as the real world left me less and less time to read. I loved the two of them together and they had good chemistry. However, it did take a bit to really feel the heat from them, something I had no trouble with in Stone Guardian, though I could just be biased as I loved that book immensely.
All in all, this solidified my love of the series, and the presence of so many side characters in the book, made me crave all of their stories too (I'm still desperately waiting for Fallon's book).
January 17, 2016
Loved this book. Danielle Monsch, did not disappoint with her latest book in this series. Love the world shes created as well as her characters. Wonderful series, looking forward to her next book!
July 14, 2022
My Mini Spoiler Free Review
Format Read: Overdrive audiobook loan courtesy of LAPL
Series: Entwined Realms Series #2
Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert
Length: 8 hrs and 2 mins
Release date: 01-05-16
Rating:
Performance by Tavia Gilbert: 4-energetic stars!
Sometimes, Ms. Gilbert came off as a tad melodramatic because she infused an emotional scene with so much pathos. However, I got why and appreciated her decision.
Story: 3 stars
This paranormal world was really cool to live in vicariously through its conclusion yesterday. Several of the kickass characters from the first book in the series
reappeared and was integral to Amana's and Merc's intertwined destinies. I wasn't feeling into the steamy scenes, but I appreciated that there were a few of them to cement Amana and Merc's growing romantic relationship. Both of them had really cool supernatural powers, so that combined with their missions were the best aspects for me. I'm down for reading the next full length book for sure.
Overall: 3.5 stars
Format Read: Overdrive audiobook loan courtesy of LAPL
Series: Entwined Realms Series #2
Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert
Length: 8 hrs and 2 mins
Release date: 01-05-16
Rating:
Performance by Tavia Gilbert: 4-energetic stars!
Sometimes, Ms. Gilbert came off as a tad melodramatic because she infused an emotional scene with so much pathos. However, I got why and appreciated her decision.
Story: 3 stars
This paranormal world was really cool to live in vicariously through its conclusion yesterday. Several of the kickass characters from the first book in the series
reappeared and was integral to Amana's and Merc's intertwined destinies. I wasn't feeling into the steamy scenes, but I appreciated that there were a few of them to cement Amana and Merc's growing romantic relationship. Both of them had really cool supernatural powers, so that combined with their missions were the best aspects for me. I'm down for reading the next full length book for sure.Overall: 3.5 stars
August 26, 2017
In the grand scheme of things, the book itself is good; it's has the same elements most of her other work does and expands on the series well. I just did not like many of her character choices and descriptions. It was as though she was trying to move outside the box of typical fantasy/romance books by not sticking with some arguably cleche elements; while that is good to do in some respects, I did not think the choices she made enhanced the story or the characters. In fact, one deviation from the norm she made for Merc literally killed my interest in him as it contradicted everything she had spent the first half of the book building him up to be.
This was not one of her best works when you break it down to bare bones, but it is an adequate story addition to the series. The overall premise is great; the execution is simply not up to par with what she has taught us to expect from her work.
This was not one of her best works when you break it down to bare bones, but it is an adequate story addition to the series. The overall premise is great; the execution is simply not up to par with what she has taught us to expect from her work.
August 25, 2023
3.5/5
Why 3.5? There really isn't anything wrong with the book. There also isn't a lot unique with the book either. The plot has been done over and over. It isn't a bad plot. The characters are decent, but again, nothing causes it to stand out from others. Is there a twist? Yes. But one you could see coming from near the start of the story. I would have liked to get more into how the magic works, but it was mostly brushed over. In the end, this is a decent story. There really isn't much more to say about it.
Why 3.5? There really isn't anything wrong with the book. There also isn't a lot unique with the book either. The plot has been done over and over. It isn't a bad plot. The characters are decent, but again, nothing causes it to stand out from others. Is there a twist? Yes. But one you could see coming from near the start of the story. I would have liked to get more into how the magic works, but it was mostly brushed over. In the end, this is a decent story. There really isn't much more to say about it.
March 16, 2018
Frustrating this author keeps giving us a bunch of stories except the one we want! Fallon is clearly the most interesting character and her and Reign are the only story I want to read!! I would love that with a side of Laire and Griffith because why not
January 19, 2019
This is a great series. A sequel as good as the first novel. We learn more about the Great Collision (the merging of the human realm and the magic realm) with interesting new characters. Again, there is as much thrill and intrigue as there is romance.
September 11, 2022
I found this one at a local library not realizing it was part of a series. It was a bit confusing but overall enjoyable. A gal that can take things from the dreams she crafts works to save her wrongfully imprisoned brother.
April 11, 2018
Audio version.
April 25, 2018
More like 2.5-2.75
There was a lot going on here and the book plot was kind of boring.
There was a lot going on here and the book plot was kind of boring.
August 2, 2018
I think you need to read then in order but very good intense parts in the book worth a read 😃
October 8, 2015
I was exceedingly lucky to win an ARC of this book from the author. (Thank you!)
I didn't re-read any of the previous books, but now want to go back and re-read Stone Guardian.
Overall, this was a great addition to the series. I liked how it didn't depend on previous books but shared characters. You might be able to read this as a stand alone but I think you would struggle.
*** SPOILERS ***
The things I liked:
The relationship between Amana and Merc (does he have a name?). From the first meeting you felt the connection between them. You were cheering for them as a couple and when you have the betrayal of that, I was dreading the 'what next'. I didn't need to but it had me wondering.
I liked that you got more hints relating to Fallen but she is still a mystery. (I think when we finally get her story it will be amazing.)
Things that I didn't like as much:
The resolution. For me, the situation that Merc found himself in, both courtesy of Hadrien and The Guild meant that he had everyone after him - the vampires, the Blackguard, the seven houses and that was just the big guns named. Yet there was no big dramatic scene regarding these players or even a "stand down" call sent out once the situation was settled. There needed to be something more.
Also, Nakua. He was a big influence on the story and a huge part of Amana. I liked that he got actual story time in person but it seemed just a little too pat. He's released, has his situation defined for him and BAM he's confronting Merc. Was there no travel time involved? Was there no searching? It smacked of set up but you were never given the set up details.
The releasing of the bound. This seemingly small detail drove the entire story and yet what is never explained was how did Hadrien achieve this? Further, the releasing of it seemed incredible anti-climatic given the impact on Merc and the story.
I think I needed a debrief of the key players scene.
Lastly, the last chapter. I realised (after checking that Larissa Miller was who I thought she was), that this related to actions in Stone Guardian. I actually like these type of hints of things to come, but it felt completely out of left field and so took me a moment to connect the dots.
I realise I've listed a lot of negatives but please don't think this isn't an amazing story. I really did enjoy it and plan to re-read Stone Guardian and this book very shortly. I'm already looking forward to the next book. (I may have to start my own character listing to keep track of everyone.)
Thank you to Danielle Monsch for gifting me an ARC.
I didn't re-read any of the previous books, but now want to go back and re-read Stone Guardian.
Overall, this was a great addition to the series. I liked how it didn't depend on previous books but shared characters. You might be able to read this as a stand alone but I think you would struggle.
*** SPOILERS ***
The things I liked:
The relationship between Amana and Merc (does he have a name?). From the first meeting you felt the connection between them. You were cheering for them as a couple and when you have the betrayal of that, I was dreading the 'what next'. I didn't need to but it had me wondering.
I liked that you got more hints relating to Fallen but she is still a mystery. (I think when we finally get her story it will be amazing.)
Things that I didn't like as much:
The resolution. For me, the situation that Merc found himself in, both courtesy of Hadrien and The Guild meant that he had everyone after him - the vampires, the Blackguard, the seven houses and that was just the big guns named. Yet there was no big dramatic scene regarding these players or even a "stand down" call sent out once the situation was settled. There needed to be something more.
Also, Nakua. He was a big influence on the story and a huge part of Amana. I liked that he got actual story time in person but it seemed just a little too pat. He's released, has his situation defined for him and BAM he's confronting Merc. Was there no travel time involved? Was there no searching? It smacked of set up but you were never given the set up details.
The releasing of the bound. This seemingly small detail drove the entire story and yet what is never explained was how did Hadrien achieve this? Further, the releasing of it seemed incredible anti-climatic given the impact on Merc and the story.
I think I needed a debrief of the key players scene.
Lastly, the last chapter. I realised (after checking that Larissa Miller was who I thought she was), that this related to actions in Stone Guardian. I actually like these type of hints of things to come, but it felt completely out of left field and so took me a moment to connect the dots.
I realise I've listed a lot of negatives but please don't think this isn't an amazing story. I really did enjoy it and plan to re-read Stone Guardian and this book very shortly. I'm already looking forward to the next book. (I may have to start my own character listing to keep track of everyone.)
Thank you to Danielle Monsch for gifting me an ARC.
October 25, 2015
I have not yet read Stone Guardian, book 1 in this series (its on my TBR list), but I have read The Cage King, 1.5 in the series. It's been a year since I last read a story by Monsch, so I didn't remember anything about the Entwined Realms. I did feel just a little lost, but I do believe this book can definitely be read as a standalone (although I bet it would probably make more sense if it were read right after reading Stone Guardian). The Dream Crafter is a lovely blend of paranormal romance and urban fantasy.
Amana is a Dream Crafter and has tried to hide from and block her power all her life. She used it once with horrifying results. Amana wants to save her brother, who has been imprisoned wrongly by the Guild. She accepts a job to capture a spell book in exchange for her brother's release and subsequent safety. It turns out the man she needs to steal the spell book from is the man she's just met in her dreams and is desperately attracted to.
Merc is a mercenary who is protected by spells tattooed all over his body. He has possession of the spell book, and feels an odd affinity with it. Somehow however, a lazy bad guy, Hadrian, has placed a binding on Merc that requires Merc to hand over this spell book to Hadrian at a particular time & place, or Merc dies. Merc and Amana each want the spell book for their own desperate reasons, and initially work against each other to get control of the tome. They quickly succumb to their mutual attraction, and I love their romance!
I enjoy the world building in The Dream Crafter. There are lots of factions, and it's unclear if many of the characters are bad guys, or good guys masquerading as bad guys. The moral ambiguity adds a piquant twist to all the machinations of the many characters here. The pace is lively and the mystery kept me guessing. There is a HEA between Merc and Amana with the overarching urban fantasy storyline providing a larger construct around book 2. I can't wait to see what Monsch brings us next. There are a whole bunch of characters that I can't wait to see what happens to them...
I received this ebook as an ARC from the author
Amana is a Dream Crafter and has tried to hide from and block her power all her life. She used it once with horrifying results. Amana wants to save her brother, who has been imprisoned wrongly by the Guild. She accepts a job to capture a spell book in exchange for her brother's release and subsequent safety. It turns out the man she needs to steal the spell book from is the man she's just met in her dreams and is desperately attracted to.
Merc is a mercenary who is protected by spells tattooed all over his body. He has possession of the spell book, and feels an odd affinity with it. Somehow however, a lazy bad guy, Hadrian, has placed a binding on Merc that requires Merc to hand over this spell book to Hadrian at a particular time & place, or Merc dies. Merc and Amana each want the spell book for their own desperate reasons, and initially work against each other to get control of the tome. They quickly succumb to their mutual attraction, and I love their romance!
I enjoy the world building in The Dream Crafter. There are lots of factions, and it's unclear if many of the characters are bad guys, or good guys masquerading as bad guys. The moral ambiguity adds a piquant twist to all the machinations of the many characters here. The pace is lively and the mystery kept me guessing. There is a HEA between Merc and Amana with the overarching urban fantasy storyline providing a larger construct around book 2. I can't wait to see what Monsch brings us next. There are a whole bunch of characters that I can't wait to see what happens to them...
I received this ebook as an ARC from the author
October 10, 2015
Let me start by saying I really enjoyed this book. Though the stars might give that away too :) While this book can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend reading the books of this series in order. It was a while ago that I read Stone Guardian and that had me lost in some few places. Especially in the last chapter.
The romance here was very (bitter) sweet. But it didn't overwhelm the adventure element of the book. I also like that there is an overal story to the series (the guild) that binds the books together. Loved getting reacquainted with Fallon and Laire and seeing that Fallon can occasionally get an asswhooping herself. Am kind of curious when we are getting Fallons story, Danielle is kind of setting the bar high for that one.
Now the negatives
SPOILERWARNING!!
The ending wasn't really in proportion to the build up. Merc just lets himself gets beaten to a pulp without fighting back? Somehow that just doesn't gel with me. Even with the reason given I would think that a primitive part of the "fighter brain" wouldn't let that happen.
The whole... we'll give them a strech of beach and they'll be happy about it and the guild suddenly being happy to let Merc take care of the book... there is something not right about that. The Guild almost moved heaven and earth to get the book (over Merc's dead body if need be) and now they are just going to let it go?
Amana's twin being painted as evil and ending up being misunderstood...
END SPOILERS
These things didn't make the book bad, mind you, but they did have me eye-rolling. My version also contains some typos, weird sentances and stuff but I'm positive thats going to get cleared up in the final version as mine is an Arc.
All in all this book was adventurous, sweet in romance, had great character building and some great steamy moments. I loved reading it, had great trouble putting it down and can't wait for the next one.
* received a free copy for this honest review
The romance here was very (bitter) sweet. But it didn't overwhelm the adventure element of the book. I also like that there is an overal story to the series (the guild) that binds the books together. Loved getting reacquainted with Fallon and Laire and seeing that Fallon can occasionally get an asswhooping herself. Am kind of curious when we are getting Fallons story, Danielle is kind of setting the bar high for that one.
Now the negatives
SPOILERWARNING!!
The ending wasn't really in proportion to the build up. Merc just lets himself gets beaten to a pulp without fighting back? Somehow that just doesn't gel with me. Even with the reason given I would think that a primitive part of the "fighter brain" wouldn't let that happen.
The whole... we'll give them a strech of beach and they'll be happy about it and the guild suddenly being happy to let Merc take care of the book... there is something not right about that. The Guild almost moved heaven and earth to get the book (over Merc's dead body if need be) and now they are just going to let it go?
Amana's twin being painted as evil and ending up being misunderstood...
END SPOILERS
These things didn't make the book bad, mind you, but they did have me eye-rolling. My version also contains some typos, weird sentances and stuff but I'm positive thats going to get cleared up in the final version as mine is an Arc.
All in all this book was adventurous, sweet in romance, had great character building and some great steamy moments. I loved reading it, had great trouble putting it down and can't wait for the next one.
* received a free copy for this honest review
October 12, 2015
I just adore this world!
So imaginative and complex - I love the way so many familiar elements are woven together to create something truly wonderful. One moment I want to live in this world because there is such beauty and wonder, and then in a next - the horror, the monsters and the constant fighting for survival make me rethink it and be grateful I'm just visiting.
While this story builds on the previous book and short stories, it can easily stand on it's own. The supporting character (hah - as if Fallon could ever be called a second fiddle to anyone!) is so fully fledged it's truly great to see them move through the stories without taking away from the main couple.
And Merc and Amana...sigh. Such pathos, such sweet tearjerking purity of emotion....with a good heaping spoonful of delicious heat to cut through the treacle. A great couple.
I would have liked more about the origin of both of their powers. That little string was left hanging and it niggles at me. I. Want. To. Know!
That's the only reason I don't give it a 5 star rating.
Also, this is increadibly underpriced book. Probably because is an indepentdent but I would have paid ten times as much and felt I got my full money's worth.
The writing is polished and while there were a few minor dropped letter mistakes, it was very well edited on the whole. Vastly superior to the 99% of independently published books out there in the e book world.
I easily put D. Monsch in the exalted company of my favourite writers such as Nalini Singh, Larissa Ione, Meljean Brooks, Gena Showalter and would even put her above Jaqueline Frank these days for the sheer ability to create a world that works within it's established parameters and laws. Which MATTERS.
Well done, indeed.
Looking forward to the next one.
I did receive this book for review purposes - which in no way influenced my opinion.
So imaginative and complex - I love the way so many familiar elements are woven together to create something truly wonderful. One moment I want to live in this world because there is such beauty and wonder, and then in a next - the horror, the monsters and the constant fighting for survival make me rethink it and be grateful I'm just visiting.
While this story builds on the previous book and short stories, it can easily stand on it's own. The supporting character (hah - as if Fallon could ever be called a second fiddle to anyone!) is so fully fledged it's truly great to see them move through the stories without taking away from the main couple.
And Merc and Amana...sigh. Such pathos, such sweet tearjerking purity of emotion....with a good heaping spoonful of delicious heat to cut through the treacle. A great couple.
I would have liked more about the origin of both of their powers. That little string was left hanging and it niggles at me. I. Want. To. Know!
That's the only reason I don't give it a 5 star rating.
Also, this is increadibly underpriced book. Probably because is an indepentdent but I would have paid ten times as much and felt I got my full money's worth.
The writing is polished and while there were a few minor dropped letter mistakes, it was very well edited on the whole. Vastly superior to the 99% of independently published books out there in the e book world.
I easily put D. Monsch in the exalted company of my favourite writers such as Nalini Singh, Larissa Ione, Meljean Brooks, Gena Showalter and would even put her above Jaqueline Frank these days for the sheer ability to create a world that works within it's established parameters and laws. Which MATTERS.
Well done, indeed.
Looking forward to the next one.
I did receive this book for review purposes - which in no way influenced my opinion.
November 24, 2015
I think I liked Stone Guardian a little bit more than this second book in the series, though they have some of the same strengths. For me Fallon, the Dragon Slayer, a.k.a. the badass woman with the sword, is still the most compelling character. She plays a much larger role in this book than she did in the first one. I also thought Merc was an interesting, if enigmatic, character when he was introduced in the first book and I liked learning more about him. His magic tattoos were an original and unexpected touch.
The heroine, Amana, is similar to Larissa from the first book in some ways. She's not as ignorant of the magical world, but she is still untrained and vulnerable. She turns out to have powerful magic but she hasn't learned to use it properly. I wish that the characters who did know what she was capable of as a Dream Crafter would have explained it a little earlier on. The way her magic is portrayed as a sort of alternate personality was interesting, but I also thought it was a bit confusing.
About halfway through The Dream Crafter, I realized that there are no villains in the story, although no one likes the necromancers. Merc and Fallon are on opposing teams, both pursuing the spellbook, and sometimes Amana. But both are working for someone else and both are sympathetic characters. It's kind of like The Amazing Race with magic. I think that's why I found the story less compelling.
I'm still quite drawn to all of the characters in this world, Fallon and the rest of the Guild in particular. I'm looking forward to the next book which features a werewolf on a Guild mission with a woman called the Master of Monsters.
Originally published at Goldilox and the Three Weres and based on a copy provided by the publisher.
The heroine, Amana, is similar to Larissa from the first book in some ways. She's not as ignorant of the magical world, but she is still untrained and vulnerable. She turns out to have powerful magic but she hasn't learned to use it properly. I wish that the characters who did know what she was capable of as a Dream Crafter would have explained it a little earlier on. The way her magic is portrayed as a sort of alternate personality was interesting, but I also thought it was a bit confusing.
About halfway through The Dream Crafter, I realized that there are no villains in the story, although no one likes the necromancers. Merc and Fallon are on opposing teams, both pursuing the spellbook, and sometimes Amana. But both are working for someone else and both are sympathetic characters. It's kind of like The Amazing Race with magic. I think that's why I found the story less compelling.
I'm still quite drawn to all of the characters in this world, Fallon and the rest of the Guild in particular. I'm looking forward to the next book which features a werewolf on a Guild mission with a woman called the Master of Monsters.
Originally published at Goldilox and the Three Weres and based on a copy provided by the publisher.
October 31, 2016
I've now read this book two times and sooooo can't wait to read the next installment. The emotions/relationship between Amana and Merc were done juuuust right. I can't put all of my thoughts into words when it comes to describing them and can only babble that they were well done.
The threads of previous characters linking into Merc's master hint at some interesting stories to come. I'm looking forward to maybe getting some glimpses into how Amana works on her powers and getting more info about the new creatures/beings Monsch introduced into this book. Amana's brother for one and the master of monsters for a second....
10/31/16
This book was well worth the wait and I can’t wait to read the next one. The teasers for short stories in the queue between now and when the next book come out sound so awesome. I can’t decide between Fallon or Nemesis ... I think I would like to hear more about Fallon first.
I get the idea of a dream walker, but a dream crafter is something I can’t really recall ever reading about—and I’ve read a lot. The insight to gods, acolytes, and the council of seven were really exciting to read. With each installment the world seems to get a touch more intricate, and it pulls away from the thought that it is just a reboot of something or an idea that has already been used.
The only thing for me was that it looked like Merc and Amana’s relationship went a little too fast. The revelation about the spell book’s origins, Merc’s teacher, and its connection to another world’s family was just, wow. At times it seemed like there were too many threads jumping about, but I recently re-read the series so they weren’t hard for me to keep track of.
Over all I enjoyed this story and will gladly read the next to see what happens.
The threads of previous characters linking into Merc's master hint at some interesting stories to come. I'm looking forward to maybe getting some glimpses into how Amana works on her powers and getting more info about the new creatures/beings Monsch introduced into this book. Amana's brother for one and the master of monsters for a second....
10/31/16
This book was well worth the wait and I can’t wait to read the next one. The teasers for short stories in the queue between now and when the next book come out sound so awesome. I can’t decide between Fallon or Nemesis ... I think I would like to hear more about Fallon first.
I get the idea of a dream walker, but a dream crafter is something I can’t really recall ever reading about—and I’ve read a lot. The insight to gods, acolytes, and the council of seven were really exciting to read. With each installment the world seems to get a touch more intricate, and it pulls away from the thought that it is just a reboot of something or an idea that has already been used.
The only thing for me was that it looked like Merc and Amana’s relationship went a little too fast. The revelation about the spell book’s origins, Merc’s teacher, and its connection to another world’s family was just, wow. At times it seemed like there were too many threads jumping about, but I recently re-read the series so they weren’t hard for me to keep track of.
Over all I enjoyed this story and will gladly read the next to see what happens.
October 14, 2015
This was just fantastic, the world building has become more detailed and complex with introductions to a lot more other world beings and the characters of Amana and Merc just excellently written. The plot is full of twists and it seems this series is just going to get better. A perfect blend of urban fantasy and paranormal genre. The female leads here can be described as kick ass and despite the action and thrill rides it doesn't skimp in the emotional department making Amana and Merc's love story poignant and bittersweet.
If you haven't read any of the Entwined Realms books, you might get lost for just a little bit. However, these books can be read as standalones. In fact the overall storyline connects the books but they do occur almost parallel to each other in terms of time. The continuing appearances of Fallon and Laire and the other members of The Guild are the constants in these books. But in The Dream Crafter more characters are introduced and as I mentioned before it coincides with how the worldbuilding has expanded. Overall, The Dream Crafter has taken The Entwined Realm series into another level. Cannot wait for the next book and maybe get answers about our favorite duo's backstory, Fallon and Laire needs their own books!
*ARC provided *
If you haven't read any of the Entwined Realms books, you might get lost for just a little bit. However, these books can be read as standalones. In fact the overall storyline connects the books but they do occur almost parallel to each other in terms of time. The continuing appearances of Fallon and Laire and the other members of The Guild are the constants in these books. But in The Dream Crafter more characters are introduced and as I mentioned before it coincides with how the worldbuilding has expanded. Overall, The Dream Crafter has taken The Entwined Realm series into another level. Cannot wait for the next book and maybe get answers about our favorite duo's backstory, Fallon and Laire needs their own books!
*ARC provided *
October 25, 2015
I found myself somewhat lost throughout this book, because it had been so long since I had read Stone Guardian. I was sure I would start to remember with further reading, and I did, to a certain extent. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed this story tremendously. It actually raised more questions in my mind than it answered, and I find myself in need of going back and rereading the others in the Entwined Realms series. That being said, The Dream Crafter was an imaginative foray into the world of dreams and reality, and the workings of the Guild...or more particularly Fallon. Fallon whom we can't decide whether to embrace for her strength or hate her for the same. With the Guild looking for the items missing from their vault, they appear to be totally ruthless in obtaining them. The story of Merc and Amana is a well-done romance with Merc trying to stay alive and Amana trying to free her brother. Both figure they will do anything to attain their desires, but will they? Ms. Monsch has created a well-written, complex world with the Entwined Realms series; one that I truly enjoy. I would recommend reading these stories in sequence, in fact it is really a must, but definitely do read them.
(Gifted a copy for independent review)
(Gifted a copy for independent review)
October 28, 2015
The book contains a plethora of secondary characters, most of which I expect show up in earlier books, but they were handled deeply enough that I didn’t have much of a problem with that. There are some coincidences that struck me as a bit much. It won’t give anything away to mention that Amana’s early dream-walks with a sexy man of course turn out to have been with Merc, before she was ever asked to get anything from him; the timing felt highly unlikely. I also sometimes felt like Amana should have figured out more that she could do with her powers once she and Merc are on the run and being hunted.
Once things really picked up I got pulled in and really enjoyed the story. While the initial bit of heat between Merc and Amana seemed a little contrived, it picked up into a pleasing erotic romance. There’s plenty of action and tension later on, and thankfully the book everyone wants becomes more than just a MacGuffin. The plot is simple but tense.
Ultimately I enjoyed The Dream Crafter, but it only moderately made me want to read more of the series.
NOTE: Book provided free for review by publisher
For a longer review including premise, visit my site: http://www.errantdreams.com/2015/10/r...
Once things really picked up I got pulled in and really enjoyed the story. While the initial bit of heat between Merc and Amana seemed a little contrived, it picked up into a pleasing erotic romance. There’s plenty of action and tension later on, and thankfully the book everyone wants becomes more than just a MacGuffin. The plot is simple but tense.
Ultimately I enjoyed The Dream Crafter, but it only moderately made me want to read more of the series.
NOTE: Book provided free for review by publisher
For a longer review including premise, visit my site: http://www.errantdreams.com/2015/10/r...
October 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
This book takes you on an amazing adventure further into Entwined Realms that Danielle Monsch created.
You meet a woman who is striving to do all she can to get justice and free her brother..however she can. She wants to set things right. The further you read into the story the deeper and more amazing the characters become.
I won't spoil anything - it's not my way, but I can say it's a great book and a must to read. If you've read the first book in the series a few characters are found in this book and even a tidbit of information about the previous book is mentioned. Great thing about this book is it can be read all its own and still be enjoyed.
I would recommend reading this book if you like books filled with some adventure, a bit of romance and filled with moments of suspense. I liked all the characters, the flow of the story and all parts from beginning to end.
I look forward to more books by Danielle Monsch and would recommend The Dream Crafter again and again. I know I'll be reading it a second time before I know it.
This book takes you on an amazing adventure further into Entwined Realms that Danielle Monsch created.
You meet a woman who is striving to do all she can to get justice and free her brother..however she can. She wants to set things right. The further you read into the story the deeper and more amazing the characters become.
I won't spoil anything - it's not my way, but I can say it's a great book and a must to read. If you've read the first book in the series a few characters are found in this book and even a tidbit of information about the previous book is mentioned. Great thing about this book is it can be read all its own and still be enjoyed.
I would recommend reading this book if you like books filled with some adventure, a bit of romance and filled with moments of suspense. I liked all the characters, the flow of the story and all parts from beginning to end.
I look forward to more books by Danielle Monsch and would recommend The Dream Crafter again and again. I know I'll be reading it a second time before I know it.
October 31, 2015
It has been a while since I read 'Stone Guardian' and I thought I'd read it again before starting 'The Dream Crafter', but my Kindle has filed it somewhere safe - still haven't located it. However, it didn't make any difference to my enjoyment of this book. Pertinent previous history is included, so that it definitely can stand alone - not too much, it's not like some books when half the previous book is re-hashed, but just enough. The Entwined Realms series tells of life after the Great Collision, when Earth becomes inextricably joined to another realm, and must learn to live with the paranormal. It is a time of great upheaval, and many magic artifacts are lost or stolen. Merc, a feared mercenary on a mission to find The Spellbook, is both surprised and delighted when a beautiful woman appears in his dreams. Amana is a dream crafter, and when she too is charged with retrieving The Spellbook, she and Merc must decide if they can work together, if the other can be trusted, and if perhaps there is indeed more to their dreams. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the others in this series, and I hope there will be more.
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