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Valkyrie Bestiary #8
Unicorns Don't Cry
Critter wrangler rule #20: You can’t save them all.
Rage is boiling inside Kyra. Friends are dead, the world is burning, and her husband is…gone, his body and mind taken over by a demon. Death would have been kinder. But she can’t kill a demon, so Kyra must hunt down the creature wearing Mason’s face and do the unthinkable—trap him for all eternity in a bloodstone.
In between hunting expeditions, Kyra continues to rescue critters in need, including a unicorn whose rage matches her own after spending years as a frat house mascot, and the shar-lil, a creature of immense power whose destiny has yet to reveal itself.
Can Kyra stop a demon, save her growing family and still be an advocate for those creatures who have no voice of their own?
Unicorns Don’t Cry is Book 8 of the Valkyrie Bestiary, a dark and humorous Urban Fantasy series.
Rage is boiling inside Kyra. Friends are dead, the world is burning, and her husband is…gone, his body and mind taken over by a demon. Death would have been kinder. But she can’t kill a demon, so Kyra must hunt down the creature wearing Mason’s face and do the unthinkable—trap him for all eternity in a bloodstone.
In between hunting expeditions, Kyra continues to rescue critters in need, including a unicorn whose rage matches her own after spending years as a frat house mascot, and the shar-lil, a creature of immense power whose destiny has yet to reveal itself.
Can Kyra stop a demon, save her growing family and still be an advocate for those creatures who have no voice of their own?
Unicorns Don’t Cry is Book 8 of the Valkyrie Bestiary, a dark and humorous Urban Fantasy series.
- GenresUrban FantasyFantasy
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2023
100 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Kim McDougall
46 books355 followersIf Kim McDougall could have one magical superpower, it would be to talk to animals. Or maybe to shift into animal form. Definitely, fantastical critters and magic often feature in her stories. So until she can change into a Griffin and fly away, she writes dark paranormal action and romance tales. Kim is also passionate about fiber art, photography, children’s literacy, rescue animals, nature, and genre-bending fiction. She also writes for children under pen name Kim Chatel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
October 29, 2023
Amazing
This book was a journey. I cried, I was angry on behalf of Kyra. She just wants peace for her family and she has all the upheaval instead. Very well written. I cannot wait for the next book!
This book was a journey. I cried, I was angry on behalf of Kyra. She just wants peace for her family and she has all the upheaval instead. Very well written. I cannot wait for the next book!
February 10, 2024
Beautiful Story of Trauma, Grief, Healing, & Community
Gleeful Goblin Review: I'm phenomenally lucky to have been able to ARC for the audiobook of this story and I'm blown away. Every book in this series does an amazing job of building on characters I love in such an authentic way and weaving in themes of urban fantasy/magical realism. It's so immersive and good I can hardly stand it. My poor heart; Kim is MASTERFUL at weaving a compelling story and this books' opening chapter with the following brief recap of the events in the last book was just gutting. The way that Kyra interacts with the little sunflower and then describes what happened with Mason has an almost tangible feeling to her grief and our narrator, as per usual, does a beautiful job taking us through those emotions with her voicework. "Two weeks ago, I’d lost my husband. The lump of sorrow was still lodged in my chest. It was like someone had carved a chunk out of my reality, leaving a hole with jagged edges that cut me every time I ran my thoughts over it. And I thought of him with every breath I took. The real kick in the teeth was that he wasn’t dead. Death, I could have accepted eventually. No, his fate was much worse. He’d been taken over by a demon. For years, he’d been fighting the dark entity that lived inside him courtesy of a “blessing” given to him by another demon masquerading as an oracle. But a clash with a vampire clan, hell-bent on invading Montreal Ward, finally sent him over the edge. And I’d promised to destroy him if that ever happened."
But on the total opposite of the emotional spectrum we also get more time with one of my personal fave critters, the peyochip! Hearing the narrator do the "Chip! Chip!" never fails to make me chortle. And in total fairness, there is a reason why my profile picture says "I'm going to díe trying to pet something that I shouldn't." So yeah, peyochip would 100% be what shoves me off this mortal coil. Speaking of critters I adore, let's talk about this series' take on unicorns! You can always count on Valkyrie Bestiary for fresh spins on critters and the unicorns here are no exception. "Let’s address the many myths about unicorns. They do not appear only to virgins. They do not lure virgins to their death. They do not eat virgins. Unicorns couldn’t care less whether you are a virgin or not. Unicorn horns are not made of gold. Unicorn horns do not bring immortality. Unicorn horns are not an aphrodisiac. Ground up unicorn horns are not a panacea that cures all. Unicorns don’t fart rainbows or cry diamonds. Is there any other dumb story I’ve missed? Good. Let’s move on. Oh, wait. One last one. Unicorns are *not* frat house mascots."
This book is a phenomenal representation of how different people deal with trauma both individually and as a group. We see how what's happened to Mason has shaken so many characters we love to their cores and their various responses are wonderfully nuanced. But more than anything else, this book is really about the hope and the path towards recovery that doesn't always get talked about with regards to PTSD. We see those themes in just about every story thread contained here from Kyra herself to Chug the unicorn. Healing is hard and it's painful but the takeaway from this book is that most of all healing is POSSIBLE as long as you don't try to do it alone. 5/5 Stars
Gleeful Goblin Review: I'm phenomenally lucky to have been able to ARC for the audiobook of this story and I'm blown away. Every book in this series does an amazing job of building on characters I love in such an authentic way and weaving in themes of urban fantasy/magical realism. It's so immersive and good I can hardly stand it. My poor heart; Kim is MASTERFUL at weaving a compelling story and this books' opening chapter with the following brief recap of the events in the last book was just gutting. The way that Kyra interacts with the little sunflower and then describes what happened with Mason has an almost tangible feeling to her grief and our narrator, as per usual, does a beautiful job taking us through those emotions with her voicework. "Two weeks ago, I’d lost my husband. The lump of sorrow was still lodged in my chest. It was like someone had carved a chunk out of my reality, leaving a hole with jagged edges that cut me every time I ran my thoughts over it. And I thought of him with every breath I took. The real kick in the teeth was that he wasn’t dead. Death, I could have accepted eventually. No, his fate was much worse. He’d been taken over by a demon. For years, he’d been fighting the dark entity that lived inside him courtesy of a “blessing” given to him by another demon masquerading as an oracle. But a clash with a vampire clan, hell-bent on invading Montreal Ward, finally sent him over the edge. And I’d promised to destroy him if that ever happened."
But on the total opposite of the emotional spectrum we also get more time with one of my personal fave critters, the peyochip! Hearing the narrator do the "Chip! Chip!" never fails to make me chortle. And in total fairness, there is a reason why my profile picture says "I'm going to díe trying to pet something that I shouldn't." So yeah, peyochip would 100% be what shoves me off this mortal coil. Speaking of critters I adore, let's talk about this series' take on unicorns! You can always count on Valkyrie Bestiary for fresh spins on critters and the unicorns here are no exception. "Let’s address the many myths about unicorns. They do not appear only to virgins. They do not lure virgins to their death. They do not eat virgins. Unicorns couldn’t care less whether you are a virgin or not. Unicorn horns are not made of gold. Unicorn horns do not bring immortality. Unicorn horns are not an aphrodisiac. Ground up unicorn horns are not a panacea that cures all. Unicorns don’t fart rainbows or cry diamonds. Is there any other dumb story I’ve missed? Good. Let’s move on. Oh, wait. One last one. Unicorns are *not* frat house mascots."
This book is a phenomenal representation of how different people deal with trauma both individually and as a group. We see how what's happened to Mason has shaken so many characters we love to their cores and their various responses are wonderfully nuanced. But more than anything else, this book is really about the hope and the path towards recovery that doesn't always get talked about with regards to PTSD. We see those themes in just about every story thread contained here from Kyra herself to Chug the unicorn. Healing is hard and it's painful but the takeaway from this book is that most of all healing is POSSIBLE as long as you don't try to do it alone. 5/5 Stars
October 5, 2023
This is my review of Unicorns Don’t Cry, the latest Valkyrie Bestiary book by Kim McDougall. I am including my normal disclosure notice that I received an ARC copy in exchange for this review. Also, as usual, I won’t say much about story or plot details to avoid spoilers.
The story continues the adventures of Kyra Greene, para-natural pest controller and amateur naturalist. It begins with her continuing to deal with the fallout from the events of the previous book, and frankly, not in the best head space because of it (not that I blame her, considering what she has to do). She is interrupted by an emergency call to deal with a critter problem that once again showcases Kim’s ability to put her own spin on mythology and fantasy creatures.
After dealing with that, she’s almost immediately thrust back into her own personal drama as something her husband, Mason, does has a significant impact on her life. It also badly strains her relationship with one of her supporting characters (again, entirely understandable given the circumstances). Things reach a tipping point, and she can no longer hide the secret of what happened to Mason from the the Ward’s government.
To add to Kyra’s problems, she needs to find help for her son Raven’s situation as well as uncover more about the mystery surrounding one of her most recent critter additions. Which means it’s time for another road trip through the Inbetween, which is never a dull journey, what with wild magic, ragged, desperate homesteaders, and ever more strange, fey (sic) critters popping up.
Again, I’m glossing over a ton of the book because I don’t want to ruin it for others who might want to discover things for themselves. In the end, Kyra helps Mason, gets help for Raven, and learns crucial details about the critter she saved from the opji in the previous book. Those story resolutions, though, come at a high price, and she ends the story thrust into new roles that carry higher stakes than ever before.
I continue to enjoy this series. Kyra is an interesting character with a big heart, something I feel is both her biggest strength and, ironically, her greatest weakness. Her major supporting cast also continues to be interesting, with their own victories and trials to overcome. That said, this is book 8 in the series, and, if I’m being honest, power creep is setting in. Not in terms of Kyra’s abilities so much as the stakes in the larger setting. The storyline about the Ward and its governance is becoming more important, and the series is increasingly about the politics and less about Kyra and her critters. The end of Unicorns leaves her in the unenviable position of being a criminal conspirator on behalf of an angry higher power and playing babysitter to the potential end of the world.
There’s plenty set up here for Book 9, which I’m sure I’ll also read and enjoy, but, honestly, I wonder if the next book will be the series finale. It would certainly be a fitting high note to wrap things up on.
The story continues the adventures of Kyra Greene, para-natural pest controller and amateur naturalist. It begins with her continuing to deal with the fallout from the events of the previous book, and frankly, not in the best head space because of it (not that I blame her, considering what she has to do). She is interrupted by an emergency call to deal with a critter problem that once again showcases Kim’s ability to put her own spin on mythology and fantasy creatures.
After dealing with that, she’s almost immediately thrust back into her own personal drama as something her husband, Mason, does has a significant impact on her life. It also badly strains her relationship with one of her supporting characters (again, entirely understandable given the circumstances). Things reach a tipping point, and she can no longer hide the secret of what happened to Mason from the the Ward’s government.
To add to Kyra’s problems, she needs to find help for her son Raven’s situation as well as uncover more about the mystery surrounding one of her most recent critter additions. Which means it’s time for another road trip through the Inbetween, which is never a dull journey, what with wild magic, ragged, desperate homesteaders, and ever more strange, fey (sic) critters popping up.
Again, I’m glossing over a ton of the book because I don’t want to ruin it for others who might want to discover things for themselves. In the end, Kyra helps Mason, gets help for Raven, and learns crucial details about the critter she saved from the opji in the previous book. Those story resolutions, though, come at a high price, and she ends the story thrust into new roles that carry higher stakes than ever before.
I continue to enjoy this series. Kyra is an interesting character with a big heart, something I feel is both her biggest strength and, ironically, her greatest weakness. Her major supporting cast also continues to be interesting, with their own victories and trials to overcome. That said, this is book 8 in the series, and, if I’m being honest, power creep is setting in. Not in terms of Kyra’s abilities so much as the stakes in the larger setting. The storyline about the Ward and its governance is becoming more important, and the series is increasingly about the politics and less about Kyra and her critters. The end of Unicorns leaves her in the unenviable position of being a criminal conspirator on behalf of an angry higher power and playing babysitter to the potential end of the world.
There’s plenty set up here for Book 9, which I’m sure I’ll also read and enjoy, but, honestly, I wonder if the next book will be the series finale. It would certainly be a fitting high note to wrap things up on.
November 10, 2023
Love this World
I enjoy this series a great deal. The broken world has horrors and hope. I love that technology needs magic and they are thrust a bit backward in development. That lends to the characters being more present as there isn’t television, internet, gaming and even steady phone service to distract. They do have a version of cellphones called widgets that are more for practical survival than a tool for visiting. The internet isn’t full of clickbait but more of a tool like the widgets. I enjoy the dichotomy of it as well as the magic.
This particular novel is so well written I found myself ready to put it down because Kyra’s life has become exceedingly depressing. With each page she encounters so much hostility that I’m overwhelmed and pray for peace. Honestly that’s amazing writing. I decided to keep going because of one of the new characters. *Spoilers start here* Raven has become a beloved character for me. He brings hope to the story and now has a family that gives him stability even if it has been rocked. Being born on an incarceration island he was magically stunted and raised in a violent society. At least now food, shelter, sleep, cleanliness even clothing are not a cause for battle. However free from the magically restrictive island he is gaining in magic. As such the spirit of his father, who raised him thunderbird spirit, has taken up residence in him and I think Raven will become a strong fierce force of good.
The Dervish Jacobi has become caretaker to an eggy Shar-lil who he has named Shar Baby and I too have fallen for the coconut egg with one little foot sticking out. In this novel they need to travel to a Winaskni homestead outside of the Montreal Ward. It is portrayed as a type of large mixed community of Opji vampire refugees with a huge base of Native Indigenous mythology. They are slated at this point to help Raven exist with his Thunderbird and I’m certain a novella would succinctly tell that tale.
The finale to this novel introduces us to the internet hedgewitch CeCe who packs a wollop and the tiny bodach Errol seems to have found a new friend. The Hellhound and the Pegasus get some ink as well when we meet Terra in the fold. She details some information about the Gods and creationism. It’s easy to imagine and scary to understand. Ultimately the storyline is closed out but more is ahead and I’m here for it.
I enjoy this series a great deal. The broken world has horrors and hope. I love that technology needs magic and they are thrust a bit backward in development. That lends to the characters being more present as there isn’t television, internet, gaming and even steady phone service to distract. They do have a version of cellphones called widgets that are more for practical survival than a tool for visiting. The internet isn’t full of clickbait but more of a tool like the widgets. I enjoy the dichotomy of it as well as the magic.
This particular novel is so well written I found myself ready to put it down because Kyra’s life has become exceedingly depressing. With each page she encounters so much hostility that I’m overwhelmed and pray for peace. Honestly that’s amazing writing. I decided to keep going because of one of the new characters. *Spoilers start here* Raven has become a beloved character for me. He brings hope to the story and now has a family that gives him stability even if it has been rocked. Being born on an incarceration island he was magically stunted and raised in a violent society. At least now food, shelter, sleep, cleanliness even clothing are not a cause for battle. However free from the magically restrictive island he is gaining in magic. As such the spirit of his father, who raised him thunderbird spirit, has taken up residence in him and I think Raven will become a strong fierce force of good.
The Dervish Jacobi has become caretaker to an eggy Shar-lil who he has named Shar Baby and I too have fallen for the coconut egg with one little foot sticking out. In this novel they need to travel to a Winaskni homestead outside of the Montreal Ward. It is portrayed as a type of large mixed community of Opji vampire refugees with a huge base of Native Indigenous mythology. They are slated at this point to help Raven exist with his Thunderbird and I’m certain a novella would succinctly tell that tale.
The finale to this novel introduces us to the internet hedgewitch CeCe who packs a wollop and the tiny bodach Errol seems to have found a new friend. The Hellhound and the Pegasus get some ink as well when we meet Terra in the fold. She details some information about the Gods and creationism. It’s easy to imagine and scary to understand. Ultimately the storyline is closed out but more is ahead and I’m here for it.
March 30, 2024
4½ stars; such a fun series & this new book is no exception
Unsurprisingly, the new Valkyrie Bestiary book, Unicorns Don't Cry, was an action packed adventure full of fun fantastic creatures and emotional high stakes. I've enjoyed this series from the start. I have to say that I found this to be one of the darkest entries. (If you've been following the series, you will know why MC Kyra has hit rock bottom— if not, what the heck are you doing here!? Go pick up book 1, Dragons Don't Eat Meat!)
I liked the way that author Kim McDougall dealt with Kyra's feelings of loss, anger, and despair. There are several passages that reminded me of thoughts I've had during dark periods. It made me feel seen & I think it will make people who might be feeling such a thing now feel less alone. I don't want to say too much about the plot other than that because I don't want to give anything away.
As always, Kyra's menagerie of magical creatures are scene stealers. All of the favorites from previous books appear here— Errol the bodach, Grim the grimalkin, Gallivant the Pegasus, Jacoby the fire Dervish, Princess the Hellhound, etc. We get to learn quite a bit more about the mysterious creature Kyra acquired in the previous book, as well. While it ends on a clear note of more to come, I would rather it pretty low as a cliffhanger since the primary conflict of this book is fully resolved. Basically, the ending just leaves the door open so readers know there is more to come.
Bottom line, this series is a favorite of mine. It's no literary genius, but it is fun to read & always entertaining. It offers complex, unique worldbuilding that is a blend of contemporary and fantasy (also set in the future). The critter characters are endearing, & Kyra has accumulated a wide network of friends and family, all of whom you grow to care for over the course of the series. I definitely recommend starting back with the first book, which I mentioned above. If you tried to pick up here you would be completely lost! This is a fun, quick read, and I'm excited to see that the next book already has a release date.
Unsurprisingly, the new Valkyrie Bestiary book, Unicorns Don't Cry, was an action packed adventure full of fun fantastic creatures and emotional high stakes. I've enjoyed this series from the start. I have to say that I found this to be one of the darkest entries. (If you've been following the series, you will know why MC Kyra has hit rock bottom— if not, what the heck are you doing here!? Go pick up book 1, Dragons Don't Eat Meat!)
I liked the way that author Kim McDougall dealt with Kyra's feelings of loss, anger, and despair. There are several passages that reminded me of thoughts I've had during dark periods. It made me feel seen & I think it will make people who might be feeling such a thing now feel less alone. I don't want to say too much about the plot other than that because I don't want to give anything away.
As always, Kyra's menagerie of magical creatures are scene stealers. All of the favorites from previous books appear here— Errol the bodach, Grim the grimalkin, Gallivant the Pegasus, Jacoby the fire Dervish, Princess the Hellhound, etc. We get to learn quite a bit more about the mysterious creature Kyra acquired in the previous book, as well. While it ends on a clear note of more to come, I would rather it pretty low as a cliffhanger since the primary conflict of this book is fully resolved. Basically, the ending just leaves the door open so readers know there is more to come.
Bottom line, this series is a favorite of mine. It's no literary genius, but it is fun to read & always entertaining. It offers complex, unique worldbuilding that is a blend of contemporary and fantasy (also set in the future). The critter characters are endearing, & Kyra has accumulated a wide network of friends and family, all of whom you grow to care for over the course of the series. I definitely recommend starting back with the first book, which I mentioned above. If you tried to pick up here you would be completely lost! This is a fun, quick read, and I'm excited to see that the next book already has a release date.
June 3, 2024
This was the most emotional book in this series yet. Not as much of the action as in previous books, but so much building up! Kyra has finally gotten pulled out of her funk (somewhat) and responds to a call about a unicorn trapped and being used to haze a student while being given drugs and alcohol. So now Kyra has added a detoxing unicorn to her menagerie of critters. She still has the shar-lil to take care off and hide from everyone - including Terra. There is still the demon in Mason stalking her and her family and friends, which leads to Raven figuring out who his father is and going through an extremely tough time of his own. So much so that Kyra takes him to the in-between to learn to harness and control his "power". And that trip is not without peril and new creatures we are introduced to.
In this book, Kyra is pushed to her limit and is close to the edge of not being able to take anymore. She is exhausted and tired of making all the hard decisions. At times, she feels ready to just give up. If she didn't have her "critter" family, I can't even imagine how she would feel! And towards the end of the book, I was ready to cry along with her!
But there were also good times, like Shar finally coming out of her shell. (pun intended - even though I know it was terrible!) Her immense power and love, Jacoby's complete devotion to her is just so cute!! Kyra finally gets to me Cece as well.
And even though she has this situation in hand, Terra has given her another daunting task and knowledge about Shar that is hard for her to take. But even after all that, she is ready to face the future and do what needs to be done. I am so excited to see where the final book will take us when it comes out in a few days!
In this book, Kyra is pushed to her limit and is close to the edge of not being able to take anymore. She is exhausted and tired of making all the hard decisions. At times, she feels ready to just give up. If she didn't have her "critter" family, I can't even imagine how she would feel! And towards the end of the book, I was ready to cry along with her!
But there were also good times, like Shar finally coming out of her shell. (pun intended - even though I know it was terrible!) Her immense power and love, Jacoby's complete devotion to her is just so cute!! Kyra finally gets to me Cece as well.
And even though she has this situation in hand, Terra has given her another daunting task and knowledge about Shar that is hard for her to take. But even after all that, she is ready to face the future and do what needs to be done. I am so excited to see where the final book will take us when it comes out in a few days!
November 7, 2023
Unicorns Don’t Cry is the eighth book in the Valkyrie Bestiary series, which is a series that I love! This book picked up soon after the prior book, with Kyra in mourning for what happened to Mason. She has two options, and both are terrible if you’re like me and want Kyra and Mason to have their HEA. In an effort to return to normalcy, she takes on a job which results in her rescuing an abused unicorn. She’s determined to try to rehabilitate the unicorn, but it seriously doesn’t look good. On top of all that, she still has the shar-lil, whose powers are growing and whose future is uncertain. Kyra’s got a lot going on, and in this book, you can really feel the weight on her shoulders.
In the end, I enjoyed this book, though I must admit that it wasn’t the easiest to read at times. I say that because there are certain things that I really wanted to happen and as I was reading the book, I couldn’t tell which way things were going to go. I even stopped and jumped to the reviews to try to figure out if I was going to be happy or sad with the ending, but I couldn’t figure it out. At times, this book felt a little more bleak than previous stories, but it makes sense given what occurs. If you’re like me and are having a little trouble reading it, have faith, I will say that I was happy with where things were at the end and am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. This is a series that I love and highly recommend!
In the end, I enjoyed this book, though I must admit that it wasn’t the easiest to read at times. I say that because there are certain things that I really wanted to happen and as I was reading the book, I couldn’t tell which way things were going to go. I even stopped and jumped to the reviews to try to figure out if I was going to be happy or sad with the ending, but I couldn’t figure it out. At times, this book felt a little more bleak than previous stories, but it makes sense given what occurs. If you’re like me and are having a little trouble reading it, have faith, I will say that I was happy with where things were at the end and am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. This is a series that I love and highly recommend!
November 3, 2023
I had to sit on this one for a few days. This is a punch in the gut, and I was anticipating and dreading it! Kyra has to make the most of the disaster she's been given. She's lost her husband to a demon, and her choices are so few. She can kill him, or trap him forever in a bloodstone. Neither are things she wants to do, but the demon is threatening and hurting her family.
Kyra has to lose so much in this book. Her despair mimcs that of the unicorn she rescues at the start, that is being kept as a mascot in a frat house. Named Chug, because all they feed him is alcohol and drugs.
Not only can't she save Mason, she can't save the unicorn. Not without help. But the despair is so much, she loses sight of that. She also has another mission to save the baby sharlil from the goddess who wants to destroy her.
Wow, it's a lot for anyone.
Anyway, this is another brilliant book in the series. There is so much going on, and so many things that Kyra must do to protect everyone. It'd break someone weaker. The ending was perfect, but that doesn't mean everything is resolved. It's well worth reading, keep your hankies close!
You'll be satisfied at the end, and there are still darling sweet moments, and funny moments. I can't wait for the next! This is a world that's hard to leave once you've finished a book.
Kyra has to lose so much in this book. Her despair mimcs that of the unicorn she rescues at the start, that is being kept as a mascot in a frat house. Named Chug, because all they feed him is alcohol and drugs.
Not only can't she save Mason, she can't save the unicorn. Not without help. But the despair is so much, she loses sight of that. She also has another mission to save the baby sharlil from the goddess who wants to destroy her.
Wow, it's a lot for anyone.
Anyway, this is another brilliant book in the series. There is so much going on, and so many things that Kyra must do to protect everyone. It'd break someone weaker. The ending was perfect, but that doesn't mean everything is resolved. It's well worth reading, keep your hankies close!
You'll be satisfied at the end, and there are still darling sweet moments, and funny moments. I can't wait for the next! This is a world that's hard to leave once you've finished a book.
October 21, 2023
Wow!!! Wow!!! Kim McDougall never disappoints. From the very moment this book started, I was on the edge of my seat. I knew the stakes because I remembered the end of the last book too well. Kyra had a lot riding on her shoulders and no one around her would be safe until she ‘fixed’ this thing but, it seemed insurmountable. As a writer myself, I couldn’t sleep until I finished the book, wondering how she would bring this to a satisfying conclusion. And WOW! She did it. Was that three WOW’s in the first paragraph? I’m so sorry but … opps I almost said it again.
There are many twists as our beloved group of characters make their way through the arc of this book. I cried, I laughed and cried again.
But, can I say this Kim? As a rabid reader of this series, I was really sad, knowing this was the last book. I actually didn’t want to read on (except I couldn’t help myself) because it was worse than knowing you’ve eaten the last brownie. And yet… well, maybe this would be a spoiler so I won’t say it but, maybe there are a few more brownies in the kitchen. I am so thrilled. This book was everything I’ve come to expect from the Valkyrie Bestiary series and this author. I want more.
There are many twists as our beloved group of characters make their way through the arc of this book. I cried, I laughed and cried again.
But, can I say this Kim? As a rabid reader of this series, I was really sad, knowing this was the last book. I actually didn’t want to read on (except I couldn’t help myself) because it was worse than knowing you’ve eaten the last brownie. And yet… well, maybe this would be a spoiler so I won’t say it but, maybe there are a few more brownies in the kitchen. I am so thrilled. This book was everything I’ve come to expect from the Valkyrie Bestiary series and this author. I want more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2024
This is the best series I have read this summer. The characters are amazing & the critters are to die for. The plots keep you glued to the story and never cease to amaze me.
In rhis one, Kyra is very upset. The demon has now taken over Masons body completely and he is no more. The demon keeps showing up at the house and trying to break through the wards to get at her family. As if that isn't enough for her to deal with, she still has Shar the sharlil. Protecting her is a 24 hour job. Everyone wants her to steal her magic. Kyra thinks about just giving her up to lighten her load but then when she looks at the little baby coconut she can't do it. Kyra loves all creatures big or small, slimy or furry, it doesn't matter. Raven is having trouble with his magic & shifting so she knows he needs help. Then Kyra gets a call about a vicous unicorn and she has to go get him. What she finds makes her furious. A small unicorn that has been abused and is mad at the world so Kyra takes him home. The unicorn won't settle down no matter what Kyra tries and then an accident occurs. Now Kyra knows she must send her loved ones away so she can go and trap the demon once and for all. Her heart is broken. She can't bear the thought of Mason being gone.
The ending was simply fantastic.
In rhis one, Kyra is very upset. The demon has now taken over Masons body completely and he is no more. The demon keeps showing up at the house and trying to break through the wards to get at her family. As if that isn't enough for her to deal with, she still has Shar the sharlil. Protecting her is a 24 hour job. Everyone wants her to steal her magic. Kyra thinks about just giving her up to lighten her load but then when she looks at the little baby coconut she can't do it. Kyra loves all creatures big or small, slimy or furry, it doesn't matter. Raven is having trouble with his magic & shifting so she knows he needs help. Then Kyra gets a call about a vicous unicorn and she has to go get him. What she finds makes her furious. A small unicorn that has been abused and is mad at the world so Kyra takes him home. The unicorn won't settle down no matter what Kyra tries and then an accident occurs. Now Kyra knows she must send her loved ones away so she can go and trap the demon once and for all. Her heart is broken. She can't bear the thought of Mason being gone.
The ending was simply fantastic.
June 25, 2024
Apologies to the author. I purchased this. book last year with the intent of reading it immediately. Somehow, it got lost in the shuffle. I purchased Worlds Don't Collide, again with the intent of starting it immediately when it arrived on June 5. Well that didn't happen. My TBR pile is too high. Was going to start #9, but realized that #8 hadn't been read yet. Of course, I have to have back story so opened this one and got started. Had to pause occasionally since library books can only be kept so long and I had several I needed to finish as well as reading Unicorns. This is definitely a great series. Characters, setting, plot, emotions - everything is just great. (Cover art doesn't hurt, either). My library books are still waiting, but Worlds Don't Collide will take up most of my time. 308 pages? If all goes as planned, I hope to finish it no later than Wednesday (starting Monday night.). I must admit that I am a sucker for almost anything that has to do with animals roam definitely biased to this series. Highly recommend. Start from the beginning. Backstory is incredibly important.
February 16, 2024
-4 stars. i would have given it 5 stars, but i didn't care for all the anger and the rage in the book. i understand it was part of the storyline with the demon, but i'm dealing with too much anger of my own at the moment and reading about more anger didn't help my personal situation. other than all the anger, i liked the story and the ending. and i look forward to the next book.
as usual i love all the creatures in the book, especially Baby Shar.
"my heart couldn't take that kind of misery today. ignoring it wouldn't make the problem go away, but i felt fragile, like a pottery bowl with a snaking crack too fine for the eye to see. i could only carry the weight of so much sorrow before shattering into a thousand tiny shards."
"tell me how to trap Kevin."
"Kevin?"
"that's what i'm calling him. it helps to remember the demon isn't Mason. and it was the most mundane name i could think of. no one can be afraid of Kevin the demon."
"you are very strange."
"i like to keep things in perspective."
as usual i love all the creatures in the book, especially Baby Shar.
"my heart couldn't take that kind of misery today. ignoring it wouldn't make the problem go away, but i felt fragile, like a pottery bowl with a snaking crack too fine for the eye to see. i could only carry the weight of so much sorrow before shattering into a thousand tiny shards."
"tell me how to trap Kevin."
"Kevin?"
"that's what i'm calling him. it helps to remember the demon isn't Mason. and it was the most mundane name i could think of. no one can be afraid of Kevin the demon."
"you are very strange."
"i like to keep things in perspective."
October 25, 2024
Oh my gosh the emotions are running high in this one. All Kyra wants is her family. Instead, her husband is consumed by a demon and she must be the one to take him down. Her children are at risk, she’s isolated, there’s a demanding god and a world-killer. And the vampires.
Kyra barely has time to breathe in this book. Someone always wants her to do something. And as a woman, who hasn’t felt the burden of the world upon them? The unreasonable expectations and overwhelming pressure of real life is hard enough. But add in insane and stabby magic creatures, a world at risk of being torn apart, and an egg that makes me picture the egg from Garfield and Friends (you know, the one with the little legs?), and Kyra’s life has become unmanageable. At least Jacoby is there with his sweet little voice and caring nature.
I like the way this book ended. There’s one book left and I think a lot more is going to happen; there are a lot of loose ends to tie up.
Kyra barely has time to breathe in this book. Someone always wants her to do something. And as a woman, who hasn’t felt the burden of the world upon them? The unreasonable expectations and overwhelming pressure of real life is hard enough. But add in insane and stabby magic creatures, a world at risk of being torn apart, and an egg that makes me picture the egg from Garfield and Friends (you know, the one with the little legs?), and Kyra’s life has become unmanageable. At least Jacoby is there with his sweet little voice and caring nature.
I like the way this book ended. There’s one book left and I think a lot more is going to happen; there are a lot of loose ends to tie up.
January 5, 2024
Horribly Disappointed
We’re already 8 books into this series, with a ninth already confirmed, and I just cannot understand the disjointed storytelling here.
I frequently feel like there’s some sort of novella or frequently published blog that has all the minute details yet seem very pertinent backstory that keeps getting mentioned here.
Was this a good story? Yes, without a doubt. We got to see several different sides of Kyra. But at the same time we’ve finally come across her emotional depth… we don’t get to see her evolution either. Shar takes away her pain yet she doesn’t get to fully process just how damaging that self reflection of hers was. It’s like a complete disservice to the reader here. Why bother having her lose everything if she were gonna gain it back in the next chapter?
We’re already 8 books into this series, with a ninth already confirmed, and I just cannot understand the disjointed storytelling here.
I frequently feel like there’s some sort of novella or frequently published blog that has all the minute details yet seem very pertinent backstory that keeps getting mentioned here.
Was this a good story? Yes, without a doubt. We got to see several different sides of Kyra. But at the same time we’ve finally come across her emotional depth… we don’t get to see her evolution either. Shar takes away her pain yet she doesn’t get to fully process just how damaging that self reflection of hers was. It’s like a complete disservice to the reader here. Why bother having her lose everything if she were gonna gain it back in the next chapter?
January 7, 2024
holy smokes Batman
The tears. Seriously, I have some serious emotions for this one. It’s been a while since the books made me cry this hard. I jumped straight into this one from the last one and was already full of emotion. I don’t think you can help it if you have a heart. I’ve come to absolutely adore these characters and this other has done a magical job of bringing them to life. I’m also completely thrilled that this is not the last book of the series. I think I’d be more devastated if this series ended. Kyra had so many choices to make that were so hard. She was in a bad place, and now there’s hope. All I can say is you’re missing out if you haven’t grabbed this series yet!
The tears. Seriously, I have some serious emotions for this one. It’s been a while since the books made me cry this hard. I jumped straight into this one from the last one and was already full of emotion. I don’t think you can help it if you have a heart. I’ve come to absolutely adore these characters and this other has done a magical job of bringing them to life. I’m also completely thrilled that this is not the last book of the series. I think I’d be more devastated if this series ended. Kyra had so many choices to make that were so hard. She was in a bad place, and now there’s hope. All I can say is you’re missing out if you haven’t grabbed this series yet!
October 19, 2023
Unicorns Don't Cry
I loved and hated the book. It was a hard book for me to read. It tore me up to see Mason and Kyra in so much pain. I didn't like mean Kyra and though I understood why she was like she was a felt like she took a lot out on Jacoby.
The book had all the usual cast of characters and some new ones with a few surprises thrown in.
This is a great series but my heart broke with this book.
Having taken care of abused animals it's obvious to me the author has seen some stuff.
I loved and hated the book. It was a hard book for me to read. It tore me up to see Mason and Kyra in so much pain. I didn't like mean Kyra and though I understood why she was like she was a felt like she took a lot out on Jacoby.
The book had all the usual cast of characters and some new ones with a few surprises thrown in.
This is a great series but my heart broke with this book.
Having taken care of abused animals it's obvious to me the author has seen some stuff.
October 20, 2023
Oh wow!
Well this book just had me all in a tizzy, heart breaking, smiling at times and worried at others. It takes a lot to make me cry or even actually laugh out loud when reading but this series does just that. Must we wait so Kong in between books though? Kyra has a horribly tough road to trek in this book.. But such amazing friends, family and critters. I can honestly say this is one of my favorite series. If you haven't read it do it please and urge our great author to write faster please!😉
Well this book just had me all in a tizzy, heart breaking, smiling at times and worried at others. It takes a lot to make me cry or even actually laugh out loud when reading but this series does just that. Must we wait so Kong in between books though? Kyra has a horribly tough road to trek in this book.. But such amazing friends, family and critters. I can honestly say this is one of my favorite series. If you haven't read it do it please and urge our great author to write faster please!😉
October 21, 2023
Oh my aching heart
A tale of coming to terms with grief... sort of... it is still a continuation of the Valkyrie Lyra's Pest Control, but it is also the recovery of the near Armageddon brought by the vampires. Kim McDougall turned the concept of an urban fantasy inside out to resolve everything left hanging from the last book.
It is well done. It was not what I expected and that is a good thing. This was something very new and yet gave all the characters a chance to mature and process surviving.
I look forward to what is to come.
A tale of coming to terms with grief... sort of... it is still a continuation of the Valkyrie Lyra's Pest Control, but it is also the recovery of the near Armageddon brought by the vampires. Kim McDougall turned the concept of an urban fantasy inside out to resolve everything left hanging from the last book.
It is well done. It was not what I expected and that is a good thing. This was something very new and yet gave all the characters a chance to mature and process surviving.
I look forward to what is to come.
October 22, 2023
Love this series
I absolutely love this series, and every time a new book comes out, I feel almost as happy and exuberant as a certain Hellhound when she gets to sprout her bony wings and fly.
I say "almost" because seriously: FLYING? Who DOESN'T want to sprout wings and go soaring around? On the other hand, Hellhounds can't read (or so I've heard) so I guess it's an even trade.
So in the immortal word(s) of Princess the Hellhound: "AROOOOOOO!"
And happy reading, to those of us born without wings.
I absolutely love this series, and every time a new book comes out, I feel almost as happy and exuberant as a certain Hellhound when she gets to sprout her bony wings and fly.
I say "almost" because seriously: FLYING? Who DOESN'T want to sprout wings and go soaring around? On the other hand, Hellhounds can't read (or so I've heard) so I guess it's an even trade.
So in the immortal word(s) of Princess the Hellhound: "AROOOOOOO!"
And happy reading, to those of us born without wings.
October 23, 2023
Fantastic!!
First off, I loved, loved, loved this book. Kyra dealing with the fall out from last book, trying to stay strong, rescuing a Unicorn with PTSD and other issues, along with a slew of problems like normal.
Excellent read and we get to meet someone who comments on the blogs!! Thank you Kim so much for this, it's the blogger I wanted to meet the most.
At its heart, this story is about hope and giving up or not, making the hardest choices, or taking the easy roads. Very well crafted and seamlessly flows. One of my favorite in this series.
First off, I loved, loved, loved this book. Kyra dealing with the fall out from last book, trying to stay strong, rescuing a Unicorn with PTSD and other issues, along with a slew of problems like normal.
Excellent read and we get to meet someone who comments on the blogs!! Thank you Kim so much for this, it's the blogger I wanted to meet the most.
At its heart, this story is about hope and giving up or not, making the hardest choices, or taking the easy roads. Very well crafted and seamlessly flows. One of my favorite in this series.
October 24, 2023
I was counting the days this summer and fall until I received both my kindle (Canada) and paperback version of Unicorns Don’t Cry by Kim McDougall.
The author has created a unique world with The Valkyrie Bestiary series and main character - exiled valkyrie (dryad) and pest controller Kyra Greene.
With book 8 the stakes are extremely high as Kyra sees all she loves in danger due to her husband who is possessed and controlled by a demon. The story comes to an exciting and emotional climax. I am looking forward to book nine!
The author has created a unique world with The Valkyrie Bestiary series and main character - exiled valkyrie (dryad) and pest controller Kyra Greene.
With book 8 the stakes are extremely high as Kyra sees all she loves in danger due to her husband who is possessed and controlled by a demon. The story comes to an exciting and emotional climax. I am looking forward to book nine!
May 2, 2025
Made it 2/3 of the book. What happened to Kyra? the whole book nothing but anger, brooding, being mean to the little ones!
I can take the sorrow and brooding for a while but 2/3 of the book in, I was over it. I don't understand the point of Kyra supposedly having all this dryad power, she hardly ever uses it. She has a bunch of powerfull friends, but will not listen to advice from anyone - even family - or ask for help???
I really tried to finish but by now I'm angry and annoyed which was not what I was looking for in the book.
I can take the sorrow and brooding for a while but 2/3 of the book in, I was over it. I don't understand the point of Kyra supposedly having all this dryad power, she hardly ever uses it. She has a bunch of powerfull friends, but will not listen to advice from anyone - even family - or ask for help???
I really tried to finish but by now I'm angry and annoyed which was not what I was looking for in the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2023
I love this series. Especially all the creatures and Kyra’s love for all of them. But this book has to be my favorite. OMG, she was so angry, and the author made you feel it. I thought I would be annoyed as I usually am with winny heroines, but she didn’t take it that far. Anyways, dont want to spoil it, highly recommend you read it. Then go to her blog so you can see her newstest creature!!!!!!
October 30, 2023
If you have not been reading Kyra's adventures, this is NOT the place to start. Shoo. Go back to the beginning, honest.
The book is GREAT. Kyra's descent into rage in trying to save Mason is very, very well written. Her efforts to help Raven and protect her charges are all quite wonderful.
The end of the book sets up very dramatic battles in the next book. And Kyra has a LOT of her own life to now put back together.
A great read.
The book is GREAT. Kyra's descent into rage in trying to save Mason is very, very well written. Her efforts to help Raven and protect her charges are all quite wonderful.
The end of the book sets up very dramatic battles in the next book. And Kyra has a LOT of her own life to now put back together.
A great read.
February 11, 2024
Enjoyable
I keep coming back to these stories, because of the way Kim weaves the various elements of magic, science, human strengths and weaknesses, and adds in the various pantheon of God's, fae, and mystical creatures from many different lands and people.
Just sit back and enjoy, as Kira works through her next adventure.
Like me, I'm sure you'll enjoy both the journey and the read.
I keep coming back to these stories, because of the way Kim weaves the various elements of magic, science, human strengths and weaknesses, and adds in the various pantheon of God's, fae, and mystical creatures from many different lands and people.
Just sit back and enjoy, as Kira works through her next adventure.
Like me, I'm sure you'll enjoy both the journey and the read.
October 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and the story line is excellent.
In Unicorns Don't Cry, Kyra faces the potential loss of her husband versus the loss of everything. Kim McDougall knows how to write a fast paced, well written novel, and this may be her best one yet. I highly recommend this book, this series and this author.
This review is from an ARC copy.
In Unicorns Don't Cry, Kyra faces the potential loss of her husband versus the loss of everything. Kim McDougall knows how to write a fast paced, well written novel, and this may be her best one yet. I highly recommend this book, this series and this author.
This review is from an ARC copy.
October 25, 2023
I love this series!
Kyra is a heroine right up my alley. She is strong, loyal, and committed to those she loves. And she rescues strays - both people and creatures. It makes for a diverse and fascinating group. Jacob I is one of my favorite characters! You'll enjoy this series and be where I am - waiting for the next book to come out.
Kyra is a heroine right up my alley. She is strong, loyal, and committed to those she loves. And she rescues strays - both people and creatures. It makes for a diverse and fascinating group. Jacob I is one of my favorite characters! You'll enjoy this series and be where I am - waiting for the next book to come out.
November 3, 2023
Loved it :)
This book is awesome. The story line is great as always.You learn more about the characters. Some parts will make you want to cry & some will be very exciting. i like the ending very much & look forward to the next 1 in the series.I recommend this 1 to everyone. I received this book as an advanced copy for a review.
This book is awesome. The story line is great as always.You learn more about the characters. Some parts will make you want to cry & some will be very exciting. i like the ending very much & look forward to the next 1 in the series.I recommend this 1 to everyone. I received this book as an advanced copy for a review.
January 21, 2024
Excellent
If you have gotten this far you know this series is excellent.
Excellent world building. Excellent writing craft. Excellent copy editing.
But you really need to start at the beginning of this series to get all the details and back story.
I don't give 5 stars to anything but Nebula/Hugo winners.
But this is Urban Fantasy as good as it gets.
If you have gotten this far you know this series is excellent.
Excellent world building. Excellent writing craft. Excellent copy editing.
But you really need to start at the beginning of this series to get all the details and back story.
I don't give 5 stars to anything but Nebula/Hugo winners.
But this is Urban Fantasy as good as it gets.
July 6, 2024
An excellent read
Another exciting book in this series. The story drew out a huge range of emotions from sadness to being on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happens next. A fun fantasy series with magic, creatures, demons, Gods and vampires all fighting for power. Highly recommend.
Another exciting book in this series. The story drew out a huge range of emotions from sadness to being on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happens next. A fun fantasy series with magic, creatures, demons, Gods and vampires all fighting for power. Highly recommend.
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