Jacqueline Huston has no idea what has been happening to her, but it started the night she was attacked by men with strange powers. While mortally wounded in the attack, Jacqueline knows she would have surely died if her husband hadn't thrown himself into the line of fire. But being alive is little comfort when your husband is dead.
Ever since that night, Jacqueline has been strangely drawn to death for reasons she doesn't understand. When death is nearby, she can see when it's coming for someone. However, it's her urge to sing when she gets close to dying people that she finds most disturbing.
Toby Williams is a wizard and a member of the Brotherhood of Merlyn, an ancient order of powerful wizards. He's been charged by the Brotherhood to keep an eye on Jacqueline. Half banshees are rare, and if placed in the wrong hands they can be a powerful weapon. As owner of Merlyn's Bar, a place the lovely Ms. Huston frequents, it seems an easy enough assignment for Toby.
When a sinister wizard attempts to kidnap her, Jacqueline learns a frightening truth about her heritage, and her powers. Will she be able to use her powers to save Toby, the man she is falling in love with, or will her powers consumer her, causing her to lose everything she holds dear?
Victoria Richards is a native southern Californian. She is a married and a full-time mom of two beautiful daughters. She holds two degrees, one in Liberal Arts and the other in History. Victoria has been writing since she was old enough to pick up a pencil, but it wasn't until her college years that she really developed a love for writing creatively. At the suggestion of her creative writing professor she decided to pursue a more full-time career as a writer, something that she enjoys and gives her immense satisfaction.
Her other interests include traveling, painting, shopping, volleyball, jogging at the beach, and enjoying a good game of billiards.
The Banshee’s Embrace is a short novel – don’t be fooled by the page count shown on Amazon, it seems shorter than the 200-odd pages suggested. Or is that just because it’s a rattling good read? I find it odd reading some of the lesser starred reviews of this book, some of which criticise the lack of character depth and world building, because I found myself totally sucked in. Perhaps the main character, Jacqueline, is a bit ‘whiny’, as one suggests, but I felt she had every reason to be – first, her husband is killed when he throws himself in between her and a man with strange powers, then in the aftermath she develops this strangely magnetic draw towards death, and finds herself unaccountably compelled to sing as she watches in horror as souls leave their bodies. Not long after, her best friend and drinking buddy Angela starts acting strangely and to cap it all, Angela’s boyfriend then tries to kidnap her. I think I’d be feeling a bit unstable by this point too! I must say, I did wonder why the book wasn’t a bit longer, as it could easily have supported more plot development and a few more subplots, but I thoroughly enjoyed it even so (I find I’m enjoying quicker reads these days – perhaps because I can get through more books that way). Finding out what Jacqueline is turning into, and why people think that to save her they need to kill her, is engrossing. Full of plot twists, suspense, romance (with sex), fun dialogue, plenty of pace and a cracking finale (yes, it’s the first part of a trilogy but, hallelujah! It doesn’t end on a cliff hanger) combined to make a highly satisfying read, and I will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
Jacqueline Huston has no idea what has been happening to her, but it started the night she was attacked by men with strange powers. While wounded in the attack, Jacqueline knows she would have surely died if her husband hadn't thrown himself into the line of fire. But being alive is little comfort when your husband is dead.
Ever since that night, Jacqueline has been strangely attracted to death for reasons she doesn't understand. When death is nearby, she experiences the uncanny feeling that she can predict when it is coming for someone. However, it's the weird urge to sing when she gets close to dying people that disturbs her the most.
Toby Williams is a wizard and a member of the Brotherhood of Merlyn, an ancient order of wizards. He's been charged by the Brotherhood to keep an eye on Jacqueline Huston. After all, half banshees are rare, and if placed in the wrong hands, they can be a powerful weapon. As owner of Merlyn's Bar, a place the lovely Ms. Huston frequents, it seems an easy enough assignment for Toby.
When sinister Derek Spark attempts to kidnap her, Jacqueline learns a frightening truth--she comes descended from an old Irish family whose women are destined to become banshees upon their deaths. Jacqueline was meant to die in the attack a year ago, but because she was only wounded, her banshee genes are coming out, making her a powerful weapon to those in the supernatural world. Derek wants to use her soul reaping powers for his own evil plans. Jacqueline must discover the truth about her heritage and save Toby, the man she finds herself falling in love with, and from her own banshee urge to reap his soul.
I loved this book! It's not my normal type of book but once you start it, you can't put it down til you're finished. This is a great quick read. It had me captivated til the very end. The characters & storyline we great. The ending was amazing. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I can't wait to read the other books in this trilogy.
First of all before anything, I just want to say that I've been searching for books with something other than the usual Vampire-Werewolf-Hunter-Faerie kinds of Supernatural or Paranormal & this is it!
The Banshee's Embrace was by far a very intriguing book, quite different from the normal read. The spin on the whole Wizardry world was nice & it had a depth that's really left out now a days, given that the entire events of the book take place within several days, it was very limited on time but not on the read, it didn't contain the usual things like too much mystery or excitement, it was a breezy kind of read.
I'm looking forward to reading the second installment, I quite enjoyed Jacqueline's heritage & Toby's past, it's a book to read when you're looking for the right kind of different & this is definitely it!
Banshee {as in the title}, Wizards, Hags, Magic, Spells, & just the bit of drinking in a pub called Merlyn's Bar are all in this book, The Banshee's Embrace, an enjoyable breezy read with just the right kind of pastime.
More and more, I find myself being drawn to the paranormal and fantasy sections when it comes to review books. Perhaps it's because I keep finding books like this one. For a while, it seemed like a lot of the books were just repeats of each other, but in The Banshee's Embrace, I found an entirely new take on the old lore of banshees and wizards. On top of that, there were some twists and turns along the way that I certainly wasn't expecting and at the end of the book, I was left eagerly awaiting the next segment to find out what happens with not only Jacqueline, but her best friend, Toby, his mother and some of the other characters. Each character had their own defined personality and fit like a puzzle piece made specifically for this story. Honestly, if you enjoy paranormal/fantasy books, I recommend that you check this one out. Ms. Richards has done a wonderful job with making something old new again.
I really love a book that surprises me and that's just what this one did! Jacqueline is a fun heroine with a big problem--she's a half banshee. She finds herself in danger when a group of wizards find out about her amazing new ability to reap souls. Luckily, the handsome bartendar of her favorite bar, Toby, is there to save her. He too is a wizard, but unlike the others, he can't help but fall for the charming Jacqueline.
I don't want to spoil the story, but there were lots of bumps and curves in this story that I found intriguing. Fast paced, the story moved quickly and I was able to finish this within a day. The characters are well developed and believable.
My only complaint is that I wanted a bit more about Jacqueline's biological family. However, I think that may be coming in the next book. At least, I hope there is a next book! I can't wait to read more from this writer!
I read this book in 24 hours. I could not put it down. Jaqueline is a young woman who's been widowed by a cop husband in front of her as he was saving her life..... And regularly has horrible dreams about that night. She tries to forget the stuff she doesn't understand until she can't avoid it anymore. Toby is this hot scruffy bartender she sees all the time at the local bar. Totally has the hots for him. One night they have no choice to have some serious conversations about who she really is.... Wizards...banshees, shape shifters... Hags... This book was awesome from the first three pages on. Must must must read. Not giving anything else up. But I can not wait for the next book. I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
Jacquie has been suffering because of her husband's death. But along with her suffering, Jacquie is changing into a Banshee. Toby is a bartender at his own bar, but he is also a wizard who owns a place for supernatural beings to sort of relax. When Toby meets Jacquie she is to drunk to even stand. Time to leave the bar, but Jacquie sences something that she can't ignore; death. As Toby fights his attraction he sees that he can't, as much as he would like to. So from then on both Toby and Jacquie have to work together to stop an evil wizard from killing Toby and save his son, whom Toby thought was dead.
I love a good paranormal book.And this one was definitely something worth looking into. Banshee's are one of my favorite myths, and its something rare to find written about. This book has them, and they are done well. Its a really good book. I picked it up this morning and I couldn't put it down, having just finished it moments ago. I knew when I was done with it that I just had to share my love for it. I almost wish it had a soundtrack so I could hear the song! The story is about life throwing out lemons for Jackie. Who would have thought that a girls night out would change everything for her, not once, but twice. When her world goes spiraling out of control, who can she trust? Her heart.
Wow - first book that I have read by this author and it was amazing!!!
I really love when I read a book and it surprises me and catches me totally off guard and that's just what this one did! Jacqueline has a big problem--she's a half banshee. She finds herself in danger when a group of wizards find out about her amazing new ability to reap souls. Luckily, Toby - the bartender of her favorite bar is there to save her. I don't write spoilers - but there is so much in the story that will keep you in suspense.
I found that while reading this book, that it is hard to put it down. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series now!!!
Wow, this book really caught me by surprise. I didn't expect it to be so good that I couldn't put it down. I find Victoria Richards' writing style comfortable and she really keeps the action going. The characters are quite believable. The mystery surrounding Jacqueline, the mysterious half-banshee who doesn't yet fully realize her powers. Her love interest with the handsome wizard-bartender was played out really well, and the ending hit a huge crescendo that left me wanting more.
Overall, really enjoyed this story and hope to read more of Ms. Richards books in the future.
This is my first book by Victoria Richards. I knew some about Banshees but not that much. I liked her twist on Banshees and Wizards.
Jacqueline is half human ans half banshees thanks to her wizard husband who saved her life. Jacqueline know has powers she doesn't understand. Toby is the wizard who is supposed to help her and keep her safe.
Jacqueline and Toby have some serious sparks when they are close to each other. I really enjoyed the book. Going to check out what happens in the next book.
Jackie was attacked after a Girls night out by Men with strange powers, she was wounded and would have died if her Husband hadn't jumped in now he is dead and she is half Banshee and half Human thanks to her Wizard Husband who saved her life. She now has powers she doesn't understand . Toby is the Wizard who is supposed to help her and keep her safe.She doesn,t know who she can trust when her world goes spiraling out of control . I am looking forward to book two The Banshee's Desire I highly recommend if you enjoy a fantastic paranormal story .
Jacqueline was attacked a long time ago, a night that cost her her husband who tried to defend her. It left her badly injure but alive, and then there is Toby a wizard assigned to keep an eye on Jacqueline, who is a half Banshee, they can be very dangerous in wrong hands. A wizard tries ti kidnap her to miss use her powers, at that point Jacqueline realizes what happened to her and what powers she has,
Loved this book, Jacqueline and Toby are great characters and the book held my attention from page one. Loved the twists and the humor in it too. Job well done!
This was fun! It started out really sad. The main character lost her husband and started getting powers. Fast forward a year later and action starts happening. She healed a little bit. The local bartender is a wizard and has to protect her because as a live banshee anyone powerful wants to use her. I look forward to reading the next two books. Got this as a free eBook. The other two are available on Kindle unlimited. I didn't check about book one.
Banshees are a huge part of Irish culture. In fact when my Grandad died back in the early 80's, his favourite niece is convinced she heard the banshee on the farm in the middle of nowhere - she lives on the farm where he grew up. This is a wonderful book and am looking forward to reading the whole series.
I'm not a big fan of paranormal books per se, but The Banshee's Embrace was interesting, entertaining, and a lot of fun. I intend to read the entire series, and feel comfortable recommending the book.
This book was great! I really enjoyed it. This was my first read about banshees. The storyline and characters were well developed and I just love Toby!!! And in any good story Love conquered all. I will definitely be following this series.
The story flowed so well that it went really quick! What a rush when widow Jacqueline Huston finds out about the supernatural world only to discover she is part of it. She’s not just a normal grieving spouse, she has powers too.
Jacqueline Huston recently lost her husband in a violent attack by men unknown to her. She was also grievously injured, but what she doesn’t know is she died and came back. She’s been trying to make sense of her life ever since and doesn’t understand why she is drawn to death. She can feel impending doom for others and is drawn to sing at their death. She is scared by the changes in her life, but everything is going to be turned upside down when she is nearly kidnapped by something she thought just existed in fairy tales – a wizard. Jacqueline learns she is a banshee…well, kind of. When she died and was brought back, she has one foot in the world of the living and one foot in the world of the dead. This makes her unique and valuable to those who wish to use her powers for their own purposes.
‘The Banshee’s Embrace’ is a story which features banshees, which are creatures who are seldom main characters in fantasy stories. I enjoyed the fact that the banshee in question was an even rarer type, the half-banshee. As Jacqueline learns of her heritage and her powers, she is learning to use them in new ways which were thought to be impossible. Instead of just collecting souls after they depart, she is able to do much more. Her powers threaten to consume her and those around her, but thankfully she has the guidance of Toby Williams, a powerful wizard who has been watching over her for the Brotherhood of Merlyn’s Council. It’s up to Jacqueline and Toby to figure out who is after her and quick! I really enjoyed the overall story and the characters, along with the twists and humor throughout the book. I’m happy this is a trilogy and hopefully we find out more about Jacqueline’s roots in the subsequent books. The growing relationship between Toby and Jacqueline is sweet and I think he’s the balance to her impetuousness. ‘The Banshee’s Embrace’ brings a different twist to the fantasy genre, which I feel is greatly needed.
The Banshee's Embrace Trilogy: The Banshee's Embrace (1), The Banshee's Desire (2)
I really enjoyed this story! It was nice to read about a supernatural being that is somewhat out of the norm. I give this one 4 stars.
The characters in this story are really great. They are colorful and very descriptive. The bad guys were a surprise for me. I was not expecting the twist to the story but it made the story even better. I liked the ending also. I think Toby is definitely a favorite for me. I am not usually a big fan of wizards but I really liked him. Also Jacqueline best friend was crazy and made me laugh a couple of times. Toby’s mother was also a good addition to the story. The author shows you how everyone has a story to them and clues you in without overloading you.
The story although fairly short was a good read. There were a couple parts toward the end that I felt were a little rushed and wish they had been a little more fleshed out. The plot had several twists and turns to it and a couple surprises as well as some funny scenes in it. I would love to see this turned into a series.
I really enjoyed all the different supernatural characters in the story but having a half-banshee is a first for me. I liked the change up. I also like to find an author that has something new. I will read more of this author’s books in the future.
*I received this free from the author for an honest review*
Generally speaking, I enjoy stories that embrace the paranormal and mythology and that holds mostly true for this one. Richards has a good premise for her story. A young woman's husband is killed trying to protect her and in the process finds herself inexplicably not only drawn to death when it happens in her vicinity, but to sing as it happens. Over time, she finds herself drawn into a world she had no idea existed and learns she is slowly turning into a banshee. Unknown to Jacqueline through most of the book, as a half banshee, she is a power to be reckoned with. People are trying to capture her for their own dark reasons.
This book has all the usual components of this type of story. There's romance, loss, revenge, greed, a few surprises, and a good plot. What the story lacks to make this book truly compelling are both characters, and a plot that are fully developed. There are places in the story where the plot is still a bit rough as well as events happening out of sequence that need to be addressed (i.e. - asking her mother if she's adopted after telling Toby she is). While the problems in this book are not severe enough to warrant pulling it off the shelves, they are significant enough to detract from the reading experience.
Due to the lack of sufficient editing, I can only give this book 3 stars. I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.