What do you think?
Rate this book
Charmed and Lethal
Best Friends living a normal teenage life find themselves caught in the middle of an ancient war between the Guardians and the Were. With their new-found powers they must choose the right path. But which side is good and which is evil? Follow Renee and Lydia on their road of self-discovery, forbidden love, personal growth, and friendship as they make friends and enemies that could ultimately mean life or death.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 19, 2018
11 people want to read
About the author
Lin Ryals
2 books51 followersLin Ryals received her bachelor's degree in Educational Studies from WGU. She resides in South Carolina and has been married for fifteen years. She enjoys being a mother to three human children, two dogs, a cat, and a few scaled creatures that freak her friends out. In her spare time, you can often find her striking a yoga pose, reading, painting, or spending time with her family. Mostly, she’s at home writing up lesson plans.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
March 2, 2019
This was definitely something different! It reads a bit like an urban fantasy YA, but the dual perspective was really interesting because Lydia and Renee were extremely different characters and I enjoyed reading both of their viewpoints. The world-building is also really great, and to be honest it reminds me a bit of Hogwarts (just because it's a fantasy school).
One thing I might comment on is the pacing; I felt like the book could have moved a little slower and took more time to world-build before jumping into action. Often, there would be one singular main event in each chapter that would be introduced AND resolved in the same chapter, which made the book a little choppy at times.
One thing I might comment on is the pacing; I felt like the book could have moved a little slower and took more time to world-build before jumping into action. Often, there would be one singular main event in each chapter that would be introduced AND resolved in the same chapter, which made the book a little choppy at times.
May 2, 2019
I was really excited about reading this book, and I wasn't dissapointed. My favorite character was Renee. She is a resilient character that makes you feel stronger just by reading about her.
All the characters are realistic and charming. Crunch strangley reminds me of my uncle. I look forward to seeing where the authors take the story and hope to see the characters grow in book two.
All the characters are realistic and charming. Crunch strangley reminds me of my uncle. I look forward to seeing where the authors take the story and hope to see the characters grow in book two.
August 27, 2019
4 Stars. Good Urban Fantasy.
Loved:
-Dual perspective
-Interesting rollercoaster of a plot
-Angst + drama + the power of friendship
Needs Work:
-Pacing, could've been a little slower
-More worldbuilding
-More characterization
Overall good book!
Loved:
-Dual perspective
-Interesting rollercoaster of a plot
-Angst + drama + the power of friendship
Needs Work:
-Pacing, could've been a little slower
-More worldbuilding
-More characterization
Overall good book!
August 7, 2019
I received a digital arc in exchange for an honest review. This is simply my opinion on the book and is not influenced by any external factor.
Renee and Lydia were best friends since childhood. They have helped each other through hard times and supported each other through thick and thin. But strange things are happening when their powers activate and learn they are a Warrior-Witch duo. They also discover the ancient Were-Guardian war and while enrolling in a special school that will help them control their powers, they find they need to take a side and fight for what they think is right.
Here’s what you can expect while reading Charmed and Lethal:
• Chapters alternate between Renee and Lydia’s perspective, and are clearly marked as to who is narrating the chapter.
• Yes, this is an urban fantasy, so expect epic sword and magic battles. Also expect an appearance from the Were, who are wolf shape-shifters.
• Sometimes, the plot did focus a bit too much on the romance side of things, but for the most part, the story itself flowed smoothly. All content is clean and suitable for readers of all ages.
• The dynamic duo – Renee and Lydia themselves. Both characters are so well developed and their bond is so strong, it feels real. The way they interact with each other, how they think of each other and protect each other, and how they compare to each other is so thought out and intricately presented. And both characters grow and develop over the course of the story.
• The story ends on a note that makes you want to read the next in the series.
My thoughts:
This was an incredible and enjoyable read, one that I would definitely look to read again and would eagerly read the sequel when it releases. As I said above, the plot sometimes did focus a bit too much on romance (and a love triangle of sorts), but for me personally, I am not a fan of romance books. For the record, I am not a fan of werewolf books either, but this book completely shattered my expectations and is definitely one I would recommend to others in the future.
Overall rating: 4/5
Renee and Lydia were best friends since childhood. They have helped each other through hard times and supported each other through thick and thin. But strange things are happening when their powers activate and learn they are a Warrior-Witch duo. They also discover the ancient Were-Guardian war and while enrolling in a special school that will help them control their powers, they find they need to take a side and fight for what they think is right.
Here’s what you can expect while reading Charmed and Lethal:
• Chapters alternate between Renee and Lydia’s perspective, and are clearly marked as to who is narrating the chapter.
• Yes, this is an urban fantasy, so expect epic sword and magic battles. Also expect an appearance from the Were, who are wolf shape-shifters.
• Sometimes, the plot did focus a bit too much on the romance side of things, but for the most part, the story itself flowed smoothly. All content is clean and suitable for readers of all ages.
• The dynamic duo – Renee and Lydia themselves. Both characters are so well developed and their bond is so strong, it feels real. The way they interact with each other, how they think of each other and protect each other, and how they compare to each other is so thought out and intricately presented. And both characters grow and develop over the course of the story.
• The story ends on a note that makes you want to read the next in the series.
My thoughts:
This was an incredible and enjoyable read, one that I would definitely look to read again and would eagerly read the sequel when it releases. As I said above, the plot sometimes did focus a bit too much on romance (and a love triangle of sorts), but for me personally, I am not a fan of romance books. For the record, I am not a fan of werewolf books either, but this book completely shattered my expectations and is definitely one I would recommend to others in the future.
Overall rating: 4/5
September 9, 2019
Captivating and interesting story!
Oh my, I did not know that I would love this storyline so much! I do, even after finishing this book I’m still thinking about it. Pondering over certain scenes and enjoying the memory of the story as a whole. I think it’s a rather unique take on some classical paranormal elements (mainly shifters and witches) and that’s why I love it so much. This might sound vague but I don’t want to spoiler anything so all I’m saying is I love the Duo’s! I love how they came to be. I also love the fact that it’s not just werewolves but all types of Were as they’re called. Bunnies, birds, bears, the Were really come in all sorts of sizes and types. And beside the Were there are witches, warriors, guardians, protectors, rebels. It really fills out this book in an interesting and captivating way. I love this story and can’t wait for book 2, please tell me there will be a book 2?
Only negative thing is that one character, Lydia, well, she was a bit annoying at times. Almost too oblivious to be real but I know it comes from her immense (and also unconcious?) fear so I can’t take a star off for that.
If you love urban fantasy, paranormal creatures and some action, you might want to give this one a try, I sure loved it!
Oh my, I did not know that I would love this storyline so much! I do, even after finishing this book I’m still thinking about it. Pondering over certain scenes and enjoying the memory of the story as a whole. I think it’s a rather unique take on some classical paranormal elements (mainly shifters and witches) and that’s why I love it so much. This might sound vague but I don’t want to spoiler anything so all I’m saying is I love the Duo’s! I love how they came to be. I also love the fact that it’s not just werewolves but all types of Were as they’re called. Bunnies, birds, bears, the Were really come in all sorts of sizes and types. And beside the Were there are witches, warriors, guardians, protectors, rebels. It really fills out this book in an interesting and captivating way. I love this story and can’t wait for book 2, please tell me there will be a book 2?
Only negative thing is that one character, Lydia, well, she was a bit annoying at times. Almost too oblivious to be real but I know it comes from her immense (and also unconcious?) fear so I can’t take a star off for that.
If you love urban fantasy, paranormal creatures and some action, you might want to give this one a try, I sure loved it!
February 12, 2019
So in writing this review I don’t want to give anything away. For this reason details will be scare. I don’t give many reviews, but this book is definitely worth the time to review. Here’s why:
When a book plays out like a movie and I can see the characters in my mind, I’m hooked. This book does that well.
I love how, in the beginning, both main characters, Renee and Lydia, use their powers for good. They work together to achieve this. We need all the good we can get in this world.
I also love how there’s always an element of danger in this book. But at the same time, it’s not scary. I don’t do scary!
I think that the way these characters find out what they are made of is brilliant as well.
The only criticism I have is that it doesn’t have a prologue to explain who the Witches and Warriors and Guardians and Were are better.
Why did it have to end? Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down.
When a book plays out like a movie and I can see the characters in my mind, I’m hooked. This book does that well.
I love how, in the beginning, both main characters, Renee and Lydia, use their powers for good. They work together to achieve this. We need all the good we can get in this world.
I also love how there’s always an element of danger in this book. But at the same time, it’s not scary. I don’t do scary!
I think that the way these characters find out what they are made of is brilliant as well.
The only criticism I have is that it doesn’t have a prologue to explain who the Witches and Warriors and Guardians and Were are better.
Why did it have to end? Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2019
ONE ROCKY ADVENTURE!!!
Holy smokes! This dynamic duo brought their A-Game with this little jewel. All the angst, suspense and speculation along with all that drama and intrigue go hand-in-hand. Throw in a little danger and you have one page flipping, prize winning, nailbiting delight that launch this gem to a whole new level. Pushing through all the trials and tribulations that along with this intense storyline and spinning plot thrust this baby to life remarkably. A throng of inadvertent circumstances along with an array of unexpected mishaps push those blazing emotions to life front and center. The characters are genuine, tangible and realistic with such depth and qualities make it easy to relate. The scenes are vividly descriptive with such colorful detail its easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another in perfect balance. Outstanding job guys, thanks for sharing this amazing little jewel with us.
Holy smokes! This dynamic duo brought their A-Game with this little jewel. All the angst, suspense and speculation along with all that drama and intrigue go hand-in-hand. Throw in a little danger and you have one page flipping, prize winning, nailbiting delight that launch this gem to a whole new level. Pushing through all the trials and tribulations that along with this intense storyline and spinning plot thrust this baby to life remarkably. A throng of inadvertent circumstances along with an array of unexpected mishaps push those blazing emotions to life front and center. The characters are genuine, tangible and realistic with such depth and qualities make it easy to relate. The scenes are vividly descriptive with such colorful detail its easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another in perfect balance. Outstanding job guys, thanks for sharing this amazing little jewel with us.
April 26, 2020
Reading indie authors is new to me, but I can't think of a better book to get me started.
Charmed and Lethal is about two seemingly normal girls who find themselves thrown into the middle of a war between the Guardians and the Were. New to this magical world they have to learn how to control their newfound powers while also trying to figure out which side is good and which side is evil.
I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter of this book. The characters were fun, (especially Crunch) and there was a good mix of drama and action. The pacing was a little off in places, I wish the climax would have been a little more spread out instead of so much action happening all at once, but overall it was a great read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy and magic.
Charmed and Lethal is about two seemingly normal girls who find themselves thrown into the middle of a war between the Guardians and the Were. New to this magical world they have to learn how to control their newfound powers while also trying to figure out which side is good and which side is evil.
I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter of this book. The characters were fun, (especially Crunch) and there was a good mix of drama and action. The pacing was a little off in places, I wish the climax would have been a little more spread out instead of so much action happening all at once, but overall it was a great read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy and magic.
August 14, 2019
It's easy to forget this book is an initial outing by these authors because the world they have built has a breadth and a depth that make it seem like the third or fourth book in a series. The prose is heartfelt and tinged with just the right amount of humor and teen angst. The story itself is nicely complicated and, at times, keeps the reader desperately turning the next page. The shifting points of view between Lydia and Renee, however, sometimes proved to be a stumbling block when it comes to overall clarity. However, any confusion one suffers is quickly overcome by this intriguing and fast-paced plot.
I greatly look forward to reading more from these authors.
I greatly look forward to reading more from these authors.
February 20, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this book. The plot was full of ups and downs, good and evil, and powerful friendships. Lydia and Renee are completely opposite, but somehow manage to balance each other out. The story contains so much humor, fighting, betrayal, tears, stress and adventure. You can't put it down!
April 15, 2019
I normally skip over the Urban Fantasy genre, but I thought I'd give this book a try. To my surprise, I really did like this book! I enjoyed hearing Lydia & Renee's individual perspectives and I look forward to seeing how the story progresses. I'm glad I read this book!
May 7, 2020
This is a debut novel for this writing duo and it took me a minute to get my stride with it. Despite the two main characters being so different, often I had to check the chapter heading to confirm who was speaking. Which is interesting because I have known both the authors for more than half our lives and, just like the main characters, on the surface they are very different people. But I think the similarities of their internal dialogues are indicative of the deep bonds they hold.
However, there was definitely a distinct difference in the characters’ thought processes when facing conflict and struggle. I appreciated how consistent the characters were in that respect. Each trying to grow in different ways, but each still having their “primal” reaction, if you will. Watching people go through trauma and life experience, I have found that tends to be the case with most people. Certainly, it has been the case for me. My gut reaction is always to respond in a specific way. Despite years of trying to improve myself, that first instinct is always the same.
But I also loved how they demonstrate that we can overcome that initial instinct. It doesn’t make that initial feeling go away, but we can be more than just our instincts.
I know, way deeper store that I got from it than what was perhaps intended. But I got what I needed from the story, what I was not prepared to get last time I read the story.
I also got more. This really is a fun read of two young women discovering themselves and realizing that they are more than just their birthrite, more than just a prophesy, and that despite their innermost self-talk they can choose to be whatever they wish. It is also about love.
At the beginning I was hardcore shipping one couple and felt the other was… creepy. That creepiness gets explained partway through and I felt vindicated. At the end, I was totally shipping them too. And the way it ended was just so cruel! Come on, man!
I know there will be more in this series and I very much look forward to reading them. While there were a few grammatical errors, I will certainly forgive it as the next book I read by a big traditional publisher had far more errors. *Sigh*
If you enjoy shifter stories and a dash of romance with your urban fantasy, then you should definitely take a look inside Charmed and Lethal today!
However, there was definitely a distinct difference in the characters’ thought processes when facing conflict and struggle. I appreciated how consistent the characters were in that respect. Each trying to grow in different ways, but each still having their “primal” reaction, if you will. Watching people go through trauma and life experience, I have found that tends to be the case with most people. Certainly, it has been the case for me. My gut reaction is always to respond in a specific way. Despite years of trying to improve myself, that first instinct is always the same.
But I also loved how they demonstrate that we can overcome that initial instinct. It doesn’t make that initial feeling go away, but we can be more than just our instincts.
I know, way deeper store that I got from it than what was perhaps intended. But I got what I needed from the story, what I was not prepared to get last time I read the story.
I also got more. This really is a fun read of two young women discovering themselves and realizing that they are more than just their birthrite, more than just a prophesy, and that despite their innermost self-talk they can choose to be whatever they wish. It is also about love.
At the beginning I was hardcore shipping one couple and felt the other was… creepy. That creepiness gets explained partway through and I felt vindicated. At the end, I was totally shipping them too. And the way it ended was just so cruel! Come on, man!
I know there will be more in this series and I very much look forward to reading them. While there were a few grammatical errors, I will certainly forgive it as the next book I read by a big traditional publisher had far more errors. *Sigh*
If you enjoy shifter stories and a dash of romance with your urban fantasy, then you should definitely take a look inside Charmed and Lethal today!
May 28, 2020
Everything I enjoy in a good story!
“Charmed and Lethal” is a surprisingly fast-paced, exciting story. The storyline flows smoothly and with clarity of thought that transitions well into this intense tale. The suspense, drama, intrigue, danger, humor, and action makes for an excellent tale with genuine and realistic characters and vivid scenes. Great story!
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
“Charmed and Lethal” is a surprisingly fast-paced, exciting story. The storyline flows smoothly and with clarity of thought that transitions well into this intense tale. The suspense, drama, intrigue, danger, humor, and action makes for an excellent tale with genuine and realistic characters and vivid scenes. Great story!
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
June 8, 2020
Great read!! This is a first for me by this duo and I loved it! Well written and a real page turner! I couldn't put it down!!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews