Kelpie: Book 1 of The Water Horse Chronicles

by Ashley Chapman

"Kelpie is the first book in The Water Horse Chronicles by Ashley Chapman. Vivienne Griffin arrives in Savannah, Georgia, full of hope and vigor, eager to start her new life with Jesse Leighton, heir of the influential Leighton family. However, witnessing a brutal murder tears Vivienne's world apart. She comes across creatures from ancient Celtic legend called kelpies, flesh-eating water horses who prey on human flesh. Vivienne unwittingly embroils herself in an age-old battle between kelpies and their mortal human enemies, the Comhlan.

But not everything is as it seems, and she soon finds herself forming a friendship with a kelpie named Eelus. Realizing that not all kelpies are evil, Vivienne is determined to douse the flames of hatred between the Comhlan and the kelpies. Meanwhile, her love life becomes complicated when she develops feelings for the mysterious billionaire Riley Slade.

Full of romance, mystery, and magic, Kelpie is a page-turner of a novel that fantasy lovers will relish. Author Ashley Chapman tells a gripping tale of a woman caught amidst extraordinary events and finding herself as the central figure in an ancient war between two powerful factions. The narrative is action-packed, with a tightly-knit, fast-moving plot that rarely gives you a chance to breathe. Vivienne is a relatable protagonist who always chooses to do the right thing despite it being the hardest thing to do, making it easy for the reader to sympathize with her. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the fantasy ride and can't wait to read the sequels. Recommended to fantasy aficionados." - Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2023

Reviews

[Chaos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the way I expected this book to turn out. It was a mix of suspense, fantasy, and a dash of romance. I didn't think it would work especially with what was happening with Jesse and Viv. I love the kelpie legends and how brave Viv was throughout the book. She was ordinary and didnt have powers yet she was braver than all of them. She understood things and was kind. It showed that kindness and compassion can be the greatest weapons. The only reason im not giving 5 stars is because I don't feel there is enough for a book 2.

[Elrica Francisca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

I loved this story and would love to read the next book. It was a mixture of murder mystery, folklore, fantasy and romance. I really enjoyed reading this book.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enchanting

Ashley Chapman weaves a narrative that is both action-packed and emotionally charged, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The plot unfolds at a brisk pace, offering a thrilling and immersive experience. Vivienne, the relatable protagonist, grapples with difficult choices and moral dilemmas, making her journey one that resonates with readers.

"Kelpie" is a captivating introduction to The Water Horse Chronicles, offering a delightful blend of fantasy and adventure. With a well-crafted plot and compelling characters, Chapman invites fantasy aficionados into a world where ancient legends come to life, and the line between good and evil is not always as clear as it seems. Recommended for those who crave an engaging and magical escape into a world where the extraordinary becomes reality.

[Haley Babin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark mythical Scottish lore, Horses🖤💚

What an amazing new and unique world of Kelpie’s and Scottish lore set in Georgia! This isn’t your regular horse but it’s an absolutely beautiful dark creature in this book. The MFC is a little naive and innocent in the beginning but when her path crosses with the Kelpies that all changes. She becomes strong, fearless, shows compassion, and becomes the one person to ever show Kelpies respect and love. She befriends one who plays a major role in her journey along with our mysterious Alpha and billionaire that seem to have a bond with the MFC. There will be more to uncover and a war ahead in the next book from what I can gather. I cannot wait to dive deeper into this world🖤

[Jolisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

12/15/24 - DNF - I got about 20% into this book and couldn't get into it. The writing was mediocre and had some questionable descriptions that didn't make any sense. The FMC rolled over onto her stomach, but then her hair was over her face and over her chest. I get the hair in your face, but how can your hair be over your chest if you're lying on your stomach? Maybe I'm just being too picky... I was intrigued by Slade, but don't really care enough to read further.

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally, delightfully surprised!

I started this book on a whim, mostly bc I've always loved Scottish folklore, especially the Kelpies. I didn't expect to read the whole thing in a day! It was so good. I loved the characters, the story, the setting. Everything was perfect. But I NEED book 2!!!!

[Roxanne Lederman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked the book. Would read the next in the series.

I liked the story was good and I would like to know how it continues.

The story has an undertone of religion. Which didn't bother me.

[Mr. E · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good

I'm not really into romance bit this was pretty decent in that regard. Characters were great and story was good.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

good, but not great. the plot was interesting, but I found the writing to be lacking.

[Gabriella Weigel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! There are some religious analogies but easily overlooked. The romance kept you on edge, beautiful men, and the action keeps you on the edge of your seat.