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Familiars #1
The Hunter's Companion
Witches and hunters. Blood and magic. Heartache and lust. Will history repeat itself?
Lora Smith's life changes forever one day deep in the English fens. Caught up in the Witch trials of 1645, her life ends tragically early, yet her legacy lives on.
Regan White is a 21st century Brighton girl who loves to shop, party, and shop some more. Forced to relocate to her aunt's crumbling old house in the fenland of West Norfolk, away from everything she's ever known, Regan's life takes a mysterious twist.
A box of old diaries tell of strange happenings, striking a chord with Regan's own recent unnerving experience in the lingering fog of the fens and drawing her deeper into the mystery. Destiny is a big word but it seems that Regan's is irrevocably entwined in this bewitching landscape.
How do the diaries, her band of new friends, and the captivating American Nate Hunter, all tie together? Will Regan find the link before it is too late, or will she share Lora's fate?
Lora Smith's life changes forever one day deep in the English fens. Caught up in the Witch trials of 1645, her life ends tragically early, yet her legacy lives on.
Regan White is a 21st century Brighton girl who loves to shop, party, and shop some more. Forced to relocate to her aunt's crumbling old house in the fenland of West Norfolk, away from everything she's ever known, Regan's life takes a mysterious twist.
A box of old diaries tell of strange happenings, striking a chord with Regan's own recent unnerving experience in the lingering fog of the fens and drawing her deeper into the mystery. Destiny is a big word but it seems that Regan's is irrevocably entwined in this bewitching landscape.
How do the diaries, her band of new friends, and the captivating American Nate Hunter, all tie together? Will Regan find the link before it is too late, or will she share Lora's fate?
- GenresParanormalYoung Adult
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2014
2 people are currently reading
856 people want to read
About the author
Lori Powell
2 books100 followersBooks with romance, books with sex,
Voodoo books and books with hex,
Fantasy, mystery, humour and crime,
Young adult, adult adult and kids from time to time,
In all their shapes and all their sizes,
I love books in all their guises.
Lori x
NB: I also write MM, more adult stories under the name Olley White, however I usually use GR as Lori Powell. While I will endeavour to keep my Lori profile PG, some of my reviews/updates may not be suitable for those under 18.
I also dabble in fanfiction (primarily TeenWolf) under the name Ponderings.
Voodoo books and books with hex,
Fantasy, mystery, humour and crime,
Young adult, adult adult and kids from time to time,
In all their shapes and all their sizes,
I love books in all their guises.
Lori x
NB: I also write MM, more adult stories under the name Olley White, however I usually use GR as Lori Powell. While I will endeavour to keep my Lori profile PG, some of my reviews/updates may not be suitable for those under 18.
I also dabble in fanfiction (primarily TeenWolf) under the name Ponderings.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 21, 2014
Young adult books like these are a staple in my diet. I love the intrigue, I love the eery, lingering feeling of being watched, I love the very human character interactions.
The beginning of the book was terribly eerie, and obviously I was very into that, seeing as I love eerie. I thought that perhaps this would take on a horror aspect in this book, but it had just the right amount of fright and suspense mixed beautifully in with laughable situations.
The characters are very real and extremely charming. They all grew on me immensely and kept me completely, creepily, invested in their romantic affairs. At first I thought Regan was a bit of a brat, but she definitely grew on me to the point where I really loved her by the end. Nate was impossibly charming and incredibly easy to love.
There were points in the story where the ties between Regan and Lora were so intense, I had silvers up and down my arms! Very creepy and very cool.
The writing is terrific, unique, and leaves you feeling as though perhaps something is crawling just beneath your skin. Powell uses words I'd never think of using in contexts I'd never considered, in sentences that I could never dream of fabricating the way she so beautifully does.
I absolutely adored this book and will send crude messages to the author until I'm sure she has a second 'Familiars' in the works.
***Copy provided by Author in exchange for an honest review***
The beginning of the book was terribly eerie, and obviously I was very into that, seeing as I love eerie. I thought that perhaps this would take on a horror aspect in this book, but it had just the right amount of fright and suspense mixed beautifully in with laughable situations.
The characters are very real and extremely charming. They all grew on me immensely and kept me completely, creepily, invested in their romantic affairs. At first I thought Regan was a bit of a brat, but she definitely grew on me to the point where I really loved her by the end. Nate was impossibly charming and incredibly easy to love.
There were points in the story where the ties between Regan and Lora were so intense, I had silvers up and down my arms! Very creepy and very cool.
The writing is terrific, unique, and leaves you feeling as though perhaps something is crawling just beneath your skin. Powell uses words I'd never think of using in contexts I'd never considered, in sentences that I could never dream of fabricating the way she so beautifully does.
Too far away from the water yet, to disturb the eel fishermen as they checked their baskets for the snake like fish so plentiful in the gloomy fenland waters, Rafe’s passing did not go unnoticed. The fox bitch with her prey in her mouth slunk in the deep shadows lest he try to steal her supper. Slugs and snails oozed their slimy paths across damp fenland byways. An owl swooped ghost like, a flash of white skilfully hunting its quarry. Night-time was a time for hunters, a time that usually belonged to Rafe. But not tonight. No-one noticed as he breathed deeply trying to ease the panic that tightened his throat. Nobody saw that fear was his companion tonight and it was as unfamiliar as it was unwelcome.
I absolutely adored this book and will send crude messages to the author until I'm sure she has a second 'Familiars' in the works.
***Copy provided by Author in exchange for an honest review***
June 2, 2014
4.25
This is a really wonderful beginning to a new YA/New Adult paranormal series. This story is full of strong female characters, incredible descriptions and evocative language, and a good level of action (I really liked the scenes where Regan and Nate were companion hunting together, their symmetry and grace were well written).
My favorite parts were the flashbacks, I really thought Lora was so well drawn, and I could really feel her, and OMG, the climax there. Wow. Just wow. I was hooked at this part--I even took my kindle to the bathroom with me I couldn't stop reading for a second! Lol. This was also the most emotional part of the story for me, and I felt, where the stakes (pun, maybe?) got high. Really high. And things were unexpected in a GOOD way. A way that made me even more invested in Regan's story.
I liked the Regan and Nate UST there too! In particular, I thought the unrequited parts of this relationship were well done. We've all been there, longing and not getting, and I think a lot of readers will sympathize with Regan. She was a believable 18 year old. One who questions, and wishes, and longs, and tries hard to get, and fails, and gets jealous, and holds herself together, and works hard, and wonders what she wants to do with her life . . . Nicely captured.
The foggy monsters were great too. But . . . and it's a small but in the end, a personal preference really . . . I would have liked it (more stakes added) if one of the villagers died during the first third of the book. Something that sets the tone and showed us of the real threat of these monsters. I wanted to see (sick, aren't I?) a dead body that spooked the villagers out the next day.
Sam seems like an interesting character that I wanted to see a wee bit more of (he made me laugh at the beginning!), and OHHHH, the END! BEAUTIFUL. I mean, that was just great. I feared it might happen and Ms. Powell did it!!! Now I need to know what happens! This book just got better and better. The ending really hit the spot! :)
Ashleigh -- I think I'd have liked to have had more of her and Regan interacting too.
Aunt Vi -- I wonder, how did she know what Regan was? And not Ashleigh? Is there some sign, I wasn't sure, but maybe there's more on this in the next books. Aunt Vi was more prominent in the first half of the story to set up, but not so much in the second, but there was something mysterious about her too.
I LOVED the setting to this story. Forget the high school setting, this one takes you to the life of a teen that's out of school and starting work--any work she can get her hands on, which in this story is working as a barmaid. There is such a rustic, gritty, real feel to this book. I dug that. A lot.
I am very curious how this series develops, and ohhh, I also really like that
Definitely an author to watch. This book is really good, and I look forward to see how the story develops. :D
This is a really wonderful beginning to a new YA/New Adult paranormal series. This story is full of strong female characters, incredible descriptions and evocative language, and a good level of action (I really liked the scenes where Regan and Nate were companion hunting together, their symmetry and grace were well written).
My favorite parts were the flashbacks, I really thought Lora was so well drawn, and I could really feel her, and OMG, the climax there. Wow. Just wow. I was hooked at this part--I even took my kindle to the bathroom with me I couldn't stop reading for a second! Lol. This was also the most emotional part of the story for me, and I felt, where the stakes (pun, maybe?) got high. Really high. And things were unexpected in a GOOD way. A way that made me even more invested in Regan's story.
I liked the Regan and Nate UST there too! In particular, I thought the unrequited parts of this relationship were well done. We've all been there, longing and not getting, and I think a lot of readers will sympathize with Regan. She was a believable 18 year old. One who questions, and wishes, and longs, and tries hard to get, and fails, and gets jealous, and holds herself together, and works hard, and wonders what she wants to do with her life . . . Nicely captured.
The foggy monsters were great too. But . . . and it's a small but in the end, a personal preference really . . . I would have liked it (more stakes added) if one of the villagers died during the first third of the book. Something that sets the tone and showed us of the real threat of these monsters. I wanted to see (sick, aren't I?) a dead body that spooked the villagers out the next day.
Sam seems like an interesting character that I wanted to see a wee bit more of (he made me laugh at the beginning!), and OHHHH, the END! BEAUTIFUL. I mean, that was just great. I feared it might happen and Ms. Powell did it!!! Now I need to know what happens! This book just got better and better. The ending really hit the spot! :)
Ashleigh -- I think I'd have liked to have had more of her and Regan interacting too.
Aunt Vi -- I wonder, how did she know what Regan was? And not Ashleigh? Is there some sign, I wasn't sure, but maybe there's more on this in the next books. Aunt Vi was more prominent in the first half of the story to set up, but not so much in the second, but there was something mysterious about her too.
I LOVED the setting to this story. Forget the high school setting, this one takes you to the life of a teen that's out of school and starting work--any work she can get her hands on, which in this story is working as a barmaid. There is such a rustic, gritty, real feel to this book. I dug that. A lot.
I am very curious how this series develops, and ohhh, I also really like that
Definitely an author to watch. This book is really good, and I look forward to see how the story develops. :D
April 19, 2014
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Wow! I'm honestly speechless, this book was beyond perfection in my opinion. I have a slight obsession with all stories that have witches or any magical elements in it and this book was perfect. The Hunter's Companion is set in both past and present West Norfolk following the stories of both Lora and Regan. The writing style was beautiful and the author did a fantastic job weaving the two stories together. My only complaint is that it isn't available in paperback!
The characters in this book were so loveable and easy to relate to. I felt that I was Lora and Regan, I was enveloped in this unique and dangerous world and it pained me to stop reading and return to my everyday life. What I found hilarious was that Nate was American (I'm American too) so when Regan referenced something he didn't understand I thought "I feel you Nate, I don't know what she's talking about either".
I applaud Lori for creating such an amazing book! I am surprised that it doesn't have that many ratings here on Goodreads, but I'm determined to change that by forcing everyone I know to read and review it. Thank you so much for giving me a free copy of this book, I will probably reread it whenever I'm craving a good witch novel. Cannot wait for the sequel!
Wow! I'm honestly speechless, this book was beyond perfection in my opinion. I have a slight obsession with all stories that have witches or any magical elements in it and this book was perfect. The Hunter's Companion is set in both past and present West Norfolk following the stories of both Lora and Regan. The writing style was beautiful and the author did a fantastic job weaving the two stories together. My only complaint is that it isn't available in paperback!
The characters in this book were so loveable and easy to relate to. I felt that I was Lora and Regan, I was enveloped in this unique and dangerous world and it pained me to stop reading and return to my everyday life. What I found hilarious was that Nate was American (I'm American too) so when Regan referenced something he didn't understand I thought "I feel you Nate, I don't know what she's talking about either".
I applaud Lori for creating such an amazing book! I am surprised that it doesn't have that many ratings here on Goodreads, but I'm determined to change that by forcing everyone I know to read and review it. Thank you so much for giving me a free copy of this book, I will probably reread it whenever I'm craving a good witch novel. Cannot wait for the sequel!
June 10, 2014
4.5
I loooooooooooved this book. A whole heck of a lot. This is going to sound cheesy, but it gripped me from the first chapter. Regan wasn't my favorite character in the beginning, but I grew to love her and I loved seeing her grow into a stronger and independent female lead. I loved the setting as well. The small town settings in books always have a place in my heart. Maybe because I live in a state full of small towns? Haha, I don't know, but I loved the feel it had!
Not only did I love Regan, but I loved the other characters as well! Nate was so mysterious and awesome, Toni was so perky and overall the best kind of friend, Ashleigh was such a cute sister, even Ella had some depth and vulnerability that we saw even though the main character didn't like her. Sam was the perfect comic relief in this story and I loved him so much. Maeve was also a wonderful character, she helped shape Regan into being a more kick-ass person.
The witchcraft and familiars were so intriguing! I've never read a witch type book before and I'm so glad I went with this one to start with! It didn't dive head first into all of it to begin with, instead Powell eased you into it, and I thought that was a wonderful way to do it. The familiars are also just, I don't know, UNIQUE! I loved it! And I kind of did a happy dance when Nate finally accepted Regan as being a strong woman instead of a frail, girly-girl he originally thought.
I have two favorite parts of this book though. First, the pub scenes. Second, the flashbacks/1645 time period.
First, the pub scenes. Regan, our main character, gets a job at The Hunter's Rest, a local pub, and meets all the townsfolk and hears about the town gossip and such. I don't know why, but I LOVED these parts! Maybe it's because all the characters had so much connection, I really can't tell you why, but it was amazing.
Second, the 1645 time period. This was back when the big witch trials stuff was going on. I am such a history nerd, this was like my dream reading about this! Lora and Rafe were so adorable, yet kickbutt, I just loved them to pieces. I loved how Powell gave us the backstory to the story that is in the future and helps explain everything while still making Lora's story really interesting. I must say, this might be the third book that has ever made me cry. THE END!
Now, I'm going to tell you why I docked half a star. Want to know why? It's because I'm not British.
What? What does being British have to do with anything?
This was set in England and had a lot of English slang/words that us Yankees don't use. (Did I just call myself a Yankee?!) And, it was hard for me to picture some of the things that were used setting wise, and some of the words they use, I had no clue what they were.
Overall, I am so incredibly pleased with this book, I CANNOT wait for the sequel! Thanks Lori Powell for writing such an amazing book! :)
I loooooooooooved this book. A whole heck of a lot. This is going to sound cheesy, but it gripped me from the first chapter. Regan wasn't my favorite character in the beginning, but I grew to love her and I loved seeing her grow into a stronger and independent female lead. I loved the setting as well. The small town settings in books always have a place in my heart. Maybe because I live in a state full of small towns? Haha, I don't know, but I loved the feel it had!
Not only did I love Regan, but I loved the other characters as well! Nate was so mysterious and awesome, Toni was so perky and overall the best kind of friend, Ashleigh was such a cute sister, even Ella had some depth and vulnerability that we saw even though the main character didn't like her. Sam was the perfect comic relief in this story and I loved him so much. Maeve was also a wonderful character, she helped shape Regan into being a more kick-ass person.
The witchcraft and familiars were so intriguing! I've never read a witch type book before and I'm so glad I went with this one to start with! It didn't dive head first into all of it to begin with, instead Powell eased you into it, and I thought that was a wonderful way to do it. The familiars are also just, I don't know, UNIQUE! I loved it! And I kind of did a happy dance when Nate finally accepted Regan as being a strong woman instead of a frail, girly-girl he originally thought.
I have two favorite parts of this book though. First, the pub scenes. Second, the flashbacks/1645 time period.
First, the pub scenes. Regan, our main character, gets a job at The Hunter's Rest, a local pub, and meets all the townsfolk and hears about the town gossip and such. I don't know why, but I LOVED these parts! Maybe it's because all the characters had so much connection, I really can't tell you why, but it was amazing.
Second, the 1645 time period. This was back when the big witch trials stuff was going on. I am such a history nerd, this was like my dream reading about this! Lora and Rafe were so adorable, yet kickbutt, I just loved them to pieces. I loved how Powell gave us the backstory to the story that is in the future and helps explain everything while still making Lora's story really interesting. I must say, this might be the third book that has ever made me cry. THE END!
Now, I'm going to tell you why I docked half a star. Want to know why? It's because I'm not British.
What? What does being British have to do with anything?
This was set in England and had a lot of English slang/words that us Yankees don't use. (Did I just call myself a Yankee?!) And, it was hard for me to picture some of the things that were used setting wise, and some of the words they use, I had no clue what they were.
Overall, I am so incredibly pleased with this book, I CANNOT wait for the sequel! Thanks Lori Powell for writing such an amazing book! :)
March 25, 2014
"Moonlight glinted off perfectly coifed black hair, elegant cheekbones that could have been sculpted from ivory, and lips stained as red as the juice from summer cherries."
Powell's words are gripping, and captivating... they pull you into her world like a snake dazing it's prey with it's hypnotic movements. Beautifully written!
I'll probably be the only one who makes a comment on Regan's mom but she was SO relatable and real. I absolutely LOVED her!
This story had a darkness about it that set an eerie mood for the whole book. Enticing... magical... there are so many adjectives I could use to describe 'Hunter's Companion' but I'll finish this review with one that I think best fits.
Brilliant.
Powell's words are gripping, and captivating... they pull you into her world like a snake dazing it's prey with it's hypnotic movements. Beautifully written!
I'll probably be the only one who makes a comment on Regan's mom but she was SO relatable and real. I absolutely LOVED her!
This story had a darkness about it that set an eerie mood for the whole book. Enticing... magical... there are so many adjectives I could use to describe 'Hunter's Companion' but I'll finish this review with one that I think best fits.
Brilliant.
July 25, 2014
**I received a copy of this book, from the author, in exchange for and honest review. Thank you!**
Rating: 2.87 stars
My Opinion Of This Book: it was pretty much mehh, alright IMO
____________________________________________
The Characters
Regan: Regan is the protagonist. In the beginning of the book, I liked her - she was strong and caring - but, then she met Nate, and well,...things went a little down hill for her character development. First off, she immediately liked Nate, and later on she made stupid decisions/thought dumb thoughts. She didn't think things through at times. To put things simply, she acted like a child sometimes. I mean, I didn't hate her with a passion, but I didn't like her. So, I suppose I thought she was a "meh" character- she was pretty bland.
Nate: Ah, Nate is the love interest. He's intelligent and pretty kick***. I really like how when he first met Regan, he told her straight up that he was like not interested in her -I was like "Yes!! You go, Nate!!"
Sam: Sam, Sam, Sam. Oh gosh, I love him! Too bad he's only a side character though. :( But, anyway, he's so witty and flirty -it's just hilarious!
The Writing
Okay, so, I didn't really have a problem with the writing except that there was grammatical errors (at least in the copy I got) and I guess it just took me some time to get used to the writing style.
I did love the fact that Lori Powell went from the past to present and it wasn't confusing; So bravo to you, Lori Powell!
Overall the writing was good and very descriptive.
The Plot/Storyline
It was a really cool concept, I just think it could've been delivered better. Like, some parts were just way too unrealistic, but I did enjoy the unpredictably of this book.
So, like I said before, the author does past and present chapters. I enjoyed the chapters that were in the past more. Maybe because I actually liked the main characters a lot (Lora and Rafe) ? Or because something was always happening?
I'm not sure, but that chapters that were set in the present were kinda slow as in nothing exciting was happening -well, nothing that I would consider exciting. But I really loved the last few chapters! They were fast-paced and exciting!
The Romance
I'm really happy to say there was no love triangle in this one -hooray!!! But, sadly, there was insta-love on Regan's side. At least there wasn't any on Nate's side, which also means that they didn't get together right away -they actually got together at a good time (I couldn't stand Regan thinking about him 24/7 though).
I don't really ship them (Nate and Regan). I feel like Nate deserves someone better...but oh, well.
Overall
So, to sum this review up, I think I would've liked this better if it was fast-paced from the start, the protagonist was more complex, and if there wasn't any insta-love on Regan's side.
I'd still say give this shot!! Actually, definitely give it a shot! I thought it was "meh", but that's only because well..hey I'm weird! Now that I think about it, it just wasn't the book for me, but it could definitely be for you! :)
Rating: 2.87 stars
My Opinion Of This Book: it was pretty much mehh, alright IMO
____________________________________________
The Characters
Regan: Regan is the protagonist. In the beginning of the book, I liked her - she was strong and caring - but, then she met Nate, and well,...things went a little down hill for her character development. First off, she immediately liked Nate, and later on she made stupid decisions/thought dumb thoughts. She didn't think things through at times. To put things simply, she acted like a child sometimes. I mean, I didn't hate her with a passion, but I didn't like her. So, I suppose I thought she was a "meh" character- she was pretty bland.
Nate: Ah, Nate is the love interest. He's intelligent and pretty kick***. I really like how when he first met Regan, he told her straight up that he was like not interested in her -I was like "Yes!! You go, Nate!!"
Sam: Sam, Sam, Sam. Oh gosh, I love him! Too bad he's only a side character though. :( But, anyway, he's so witty and flirty -it's just hilarious!
The Writing
Okay, so, I didn't really have a problem with the writing except that there was grammatical errors (at least in the copy I got) and I guess it just took me some time to get used to the writing style.
I did love the fact that Lori Powell went from the past to present and it wasn't confusing; So bravo to you, Lori Powell!
Overall the writing was good and very descriptive.
The Plot/Storyline
It was a really cool concept, I just think it could've been delivered better. Like, some parts were just way too unrealistic, but I did enjoy the unpredictably of this book.
So, like I said before, the author does past and present chapters. I enjoyed the chapters that were in the past more. Maybe because I actually liked the main characters a lot (Lora and Rafe) ? Or because something was always happening?
I'm not sure, but that chapters that were set in the present were kinda slow as in nothing exciting was happening -well, nothing that I would consider exciting. But I really loved the last few chapters! They were fast-paced and exciting!
The Romance
I'm really happy to say there was no love triangle in this one -hooray!!! But, sadly, there was insta-love on Regan's side. At least there wasn't any on Nate's side, which also means that they didn't get together right away -they actually got together at a good time (I couldn't stand Regan thinking about him 24/7 though).
I don't really ship them (Nate and Regan). I feel like Nate deserves someone better...but oh, well.
Overall
So, to sum this review up, I think I would've liked this better if it was fast-paced from the start, the protagonist was more complex, and if there wasn't any insta-love on Regan's side.
I'd still say give this shot!! Actually, definitely give it a shot! I thought it was "meh", but that's only because well..hey I'm weird! Now that I think about it, it just wasn't the book for me, but it could definitely be for you! :)
Want to read
July 21, 2016she had me at 'lingering fog of the fens.'
June 13, 2015
The perfect mix of paranormal, mysterious hero and teenage angst.
Now...
Is there a sequel in the works? I NEED TO KNOW!
*bats unicorn eyelashes*
Now...
Is there a sequel in the works? I NEED TO KNOW!
*bats unicorn eyelashes*
May 24, 2020
I was a bit hesitant to start reading The Hunter's Companion. After reading numerous books that contain two or more time periods and seeing them fail miserably, I feared that this book would suffer the same fate. However, that it didn't. 1645 and 2013 were the two time periods that shaped this book into the beginning of a heart-wrenching new paranormal series. I admired the author's ability to smoothly connect two different time periods, as it is extremely difficult to achieve.
The first chapter of this book left me in utter shock. In fourth grade, I was taught that to write a successful and gripping story, one must always have a hook at the beginning. And wow, Lori Powell proved she more than understands that! My mind and emotions were immediately sucked in, and I could not get enough of The Hunter's Companion. The writing was beautiful and the descriptions of places were just wonderful.
A book is never meant to have a perfect set of characters. There is always characters that are loved and characters that are hated by the reader. Sometimes, there's even characters that aren't loved or hated. Regan, the female lead, is that character to me. Regan is stubborn and infantile; two words a protagonist should never be labeled as. However, considering Regan is seventeen years old, I found that the words 'stubborn' and 'infantile' really worked for her. She's a teenager and she was perfectly depicted as such. It's normal for teens to not want to move since they'd be leaving their friends and boyfriend/girlfriend (Regan was not very happy in her new home at the beginning). It's normal for teens to crush immediately on a hot person as soon as they see them (It was instalove the minute Regan saw Nate). It's also normal for teens to do rash and stupid stuff for their crush or just for the sake of having an adventure (As you can guess, Regan did incredibly stupid stuff). Did I love Regan? No, but as irrational as she might be, it's reality! I congratulate Powell for perfectly portraying Regan as she is; a teenager.
Regan wasn't the only character that was very well portrayed. There was also Nate, who was the opposite of Regan. He was mature and responsible, knew duty was important, and behaved like a complete gentleman. Just as it's expected he should behave, knowing his past. Unlike Regan, who was the same pain in the butt in the beginning of the book and in the end, Nate grew and developed as a character. I loved Nate. Granted, other characters in the book also held my affections.
There was the perfect dash of comedy, suspense, horror and romance; none overpowering the other.
I throughly enjoyed this book, but it is not flawless by any means. My primary complaint was the grammatical errors. There was a handful and sometimes I wanted to stop reading because of them. This book could really use some editing in that department.
Also, a few questions remained by the end of the book:
1) If all the Hunter's Companions were descendants of Lora, how would it be possible considering she died in her teenage years, before marrying and having any children? (This question may have already been answered in the book and maybe due to my ignorance, I did not catch it. But I'm asking anyway).
2) What happened with Rafe? I LOVED RAFE!
I did see the ending coming, but that's only because I have a tendency for figuring out who the bad guy is in order to spoil the ending for myself. I know that others will be surprised by it, though!
I'll definitely be on the lookout for the sequel. With witches and creatures, I'm sure it's more than worth it!
Rating: 4 stars | ★★★★☆ | *I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
The first chapter of this book left me in utter shock. In fourth grade, I was taught that to write a successful and gripping story, one must always have a hook at the beginning. And wow, Lori Powell proved she more than understands that! My mind and emotions were immediately sucked in, and I could not get enough of The Hunter's Companion. The writing was beautiful and the descriptions of places were just wonderful.
A book is never meant to have a perfect set of characters. There is always characters that are loved and characters that are hated by the reader. Sometimes, there's even characters that aren't loved or hated. Regan, the female lead, is that character to me. Regan is stubborn and infantile; two words a protagonist should never be labeled as. However, considering Regan is seventeen years old, I found that the words 'stubborn' and 'infantile' really worked for her. She's a teenager and she was perfectly depicted as such. It's normal for teens to not want to move since they'd be leaving their friends and boyfriend/girlfriend (Regan was not very happy in her new home at the beginning). It's normal for teens to crush immediately on a hot person as soon as they see them (It was instalove the minute Regan saw Nate). It's also normal for teens to do rash and stupid stuff for their crush or just for the sake of having an adventure (As you can guess, Regan did incredibly stupid stuff). Did I love Regan? No, but as irrational as she might be, it's reality! I congratulate Powell for perfectly portraying Regan as she is; a teenager.
Regan wasn't the only character that was very well portrayed. There was also Nate, who was the opposite of Regan. He was mature and responsible, knew duty was important, and behaved like a complete gentleman. Just as it's expected he should behave, knowing his past. Unlike Regan, who was the same pain in the butt in the beginning of the book and in the end, Nate grew and developed as a character. I loved Nate. Granted, other characters in the book also held my affections.
There was the perfect dash of comedy, suspense, horror and romance; none overpowering the other.
I throughly enjoyed this book, but it is not flawless by any means. My primary complaint was the grammatical errors. There was a handful and sometimes I wanted to stop reading because of them. This book could really use some editing in that department.
Also, a few questions remained by the end of the book:
1) If all the Hunter's Companions were descendants of Lora, how would it be possible considering she died in her teenage years, before marrying and having any children? (This question may have already been answered in the book and maybe due to my ignorance, I did not catch it. But I'm asking anyway).
2) What happened with Rafe? I LOVED RAFE!
I did see the ending coming, but that's only because I have a tendency for figuring out who the bad guy is in order to spoil the ending for myself. I know that others will be surprised by it, though!
I'll definitely be on the lookout for the sequel. With witches and creatures, I'm sure it's more than worth it!
Rating: 4 stars | ★★★★☆ | *I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
September 15, 2015
This is a terrific YA book about two girls, one in 1645 and the other in 2013 who are drawn together by a box of old diaries. It includes history, witchcraft, humor, drama, and a surprise ending. I loved the small town setting in Great Britain, and the author's vivid use of imagery. Regan and Lora were fully fleshed out characters, and the supporting characters (like Sam and the Witch Finder) were quite funny or frightening. I guessed the ending, but okay, I write mysteries. Most people will be quite surprised. I couldn't help linking in my mind the witchcraft issue to the so-called "religious" people of our time, trying to deny women and gay people equal civil rights due to superstition and cherry-picking bible quotes. I highly recommend this book, and I am looking forward to the sequel. Lori Powell has created an exciting, enticing, and vividly unforgettable world. Why not pay a visit? You won't want to leave.
October 15, 2014
omg it hooked me in straight away snd I couldn't put it down. it was action packed and had twists I didn't see coming at all.
The one thing that annoyed me abit was a times the main character could be annoying and dislikable at times.
The one thing that annoyed me abit was a times the main character could be annoying and dislikable at times.
December 27, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author, through the Goodreads Group “YA Lovers” in exchange for and honest review. So first up I’m going to say Thank you!
Straight up the book was filled with full on imagery. I really really wanted to like this book as the first half of it was brilliant. I loved Ms Powell’s take on Witches Familiars. I was fascinated learning about them as the main characters did.
The chapters alternate between Lora in 1645 and Regan in 2013, I came to care for both of female protagonists. The switch between times is done quite well and Ms Powell manages to capture both time periods beautifully.
The Regan character really grows throughout the first half of the book. We see Regan going from silly seventeen party girl to eighteen, adult with responsibilities and evil creatures to fight, which creates all sorts of drama. With Regan discovering some old family heirloom diary’s in the attic, we finally find out the connection between Lora and Regan (with help from the mysterious and delicious Nate).
We get a lot of information given to us in the book as it is the start of a series. The first half of the book is faced paced and fascinating, but after about the 60% mark it starts to get bogged down. The ending however picks back up and leads to a perfect opening for the next book.
I think that the next book will out do this one, as thanks to the first book we won’t need all the background info and it can all be action.
I did come across a few grammar and formatting issues in my copy while trying to read it, I know some people like to nit-pick at this, but I found it in no way detracted from the story, I’m just warning the picky people out there.
There were a few things later in the book that irked me; language I didn’t feel fit the characters (it just felt wrong) and the unnecessarily dragged out Regan / Nate love or not business. I breathed a sigh of relief when I’d finished reading it, as at around the 70-90% mark I was getting rather stressed out at how drawn out everything was becoming and I just wanted to know how it was going to end.
So to sum it up first half of the book was awesome, but up until the last few chapters is was rather Meh, but it definitely redeemed it’s self in those last chapters. 3.5 stars.
Straight up the book was filled with full on imagery. I really really wanted to like this book as the first half of it was brilliant. I loved Ms Powell’s take on Witches Familiars. I was fascinated learning about them as the main characters did.
The chapters alternate between Lora in 1645 and Regan in 2013, I came to care for both of female protagonists. The switch between times is done quite well and Ms Powell manages to capture both time periods beautifully.
The Regan character really grows throughout the first half of the book. We see Regan going from silly seventeen party girl to eighteen, adult with responsibilities and evil creatures to fight, which creates all sorts of drama. With Regan discovering some old family heirloom diary’s in the attic, we finally find out the connection between Lora and Regan (with help from the mysterious and delicious Nate).
We get a lot of information given to us in the book as it is the start of a series. The first half of the book is faced paced and fascinating, but after about the 60% mark it starts to get bogged down. The ending however picks back up and leads to a perfect opening for the next book.
I think that the next book will out do this one, as thanks to the first book we won’t need all the background info and it can all be action.
I did come across a few grammar and formatting issues in my copy while trying to read it, I know some people like to nit-pick at this, but I found it in no way detracted from the story, I’m just warning the picky people out there.
There were a few things later in the book that irked me; language I didn’t feel fit the characters (it just felt wrong) and the unnecessarily dragged out Regan / Nate love or not business. I breathed a sigh of relief when I’d finished reading it, as at around the 70-90% mark I was getting rather stressed out at how drawn out everything was becoming and I just wanted to know how it was going to end.
So to sum it up first half of the book was awesome, but up until the last few chapters is was rather Meh, but it definitely redeemed it’s self in those last chapters. 3.5 stars.
March 26, 2015
I liked that the book bounced back and forth between Regan in 2013 and Lora in 1645. It was interesting to read about the differences with fighting, dealing with a witch and the witch hunt that went on in 1645 where anyone could turn in a neighbor as a witch and not really have any solid proof.
The Witch Finder Mathew Hopkins was be summoned to a village and then he would torture the women until they couldn’t take it anymore and would confess even if they weren’t witches. Strap them to a board and they floated on the lake, why they must be a witch. Didn’t matter that boards can float.
I enjoyed the relationship between Regan and Nate and how they seemed to click from the start and how they knew when the other was near without even looking. When they fought they moved in sync very fluently.
This was a really well written story that brought the reader into the Fenland and the lives of the characters. Sometimes you wanted to scream at them and sometimes you wanted to reach in and help. I there were a couple times I thought “I did not see that coming.” I look forward to the next installment and to find out what is next for Regan and Nate.
The Witch Finder Mathew Hopkins was be summoned to a village and then he would torture the women until they couldn’t take it anymore and would confess even if they weren’t witches. Strap them to a board and they floated on the lake, why they must be a witch. Didn’t matter that boards can float.
I enjoyed the relationship between Regan and Nate and how they seemed to click from the start and how they knew when the other was near without even looking. When they fought they moved in sync very fluently.
This was a really well written story that brought the reader into the Fenland and the lives of the characters. Sometimes you wanted to scream at them and sometimes you wanted to reach in and help. I there were a couple times I thought “I did not see that coming.” I look forward to the next installment and to find out what is next for Regan and Nate.
January 4, 2015
This book was okay. I liked it, but didn't love it. I think because it's one of those "series starters" the actual story and development gets the short end. First of all, Lori Powell is a good writer. She's different in her syntax and story building so it took me some time to get into the story, but I caught on quickly. The story is told in past and present and is the first so there is A LOT of background building in this story. I needed it, but felt that some things could have been saved for later stories. The action was so good, but I feel like Powell pulled back, wanting some save some things for the next stories.
This is what I hate about the series trends. authors need to stop trying to build multiple stories and just tell THE STORY. Powell has a good story to tell and is a good writer. She has some lovable characters in here that I want in my won circle of friends. The problem is the story isn't fully fleshed out because it's the first of many.
I'm thinking book two will be much stronger.
This is what I hate about the series trends. authors need to stop trying to build multiple stories and just tell THE STORY. Powell has a good story to tell and is a good writer. She has some lovable characters in here that I want in my won circle of friends. The problem is the story isn't fully fleshed out because it's the first of many.
I'm thinking book two will be much stronger.
January 11, 2015
***I received a free copy of this book from the author for a honest review via the Goodreads Group-YA Lovers. Thank you.***
Story, the story is about witches, familiars and hunters. It does go back several centuries into the witch hunt and how the hunters and their companions came to be. I liked that concept as it has been a while since I read a book on wicked witches. The chapters switch between 1645 and 2013 years. The book is from Regan's and Lora's POV. The flashbacks, although they were done well, distracted me a lot. I had to keep my mind going from 1645 in one chapter to 2013 in the other. I know it is a personal preference but, I wish the flashback was done in a prologue or maybe, 1-2 chapters were dedicated to it and rest kept current.
Characters, Regan - is a teen who moved with her family to a new town which is more of a countryside. She's used to more of a city life and is dealing with adjustment issues as expected. But, love for her family keeps her from throwing a full blown tantrum. She makes friends and loves her new job as a bartender. She was a tad whiny few times. Nate - the mystery guy in the beginning and her love interest. I found Nate very flat and not at all swoon worthy. However, he is a badass fighter. In fact, to me, he just came across reactionless most of the time. He just lacked depth for a main guy character. Lora, she is Regan's ancestor and is a strong character despite the era she grew in. Rafe, is Nate's ancestor and is a hunter. Sam, I liked him. He was fun, always flirting, really nice to everyone. I actually liked him better than Nate. The other supporting casts are ok and really don't add much to the story as of yet.
Love Interest - Nate and Regan, honestly, I felt absolutely no chemistry between them. I wanted to but, just did not see it. It all felt one sided from Regan's side. All she did was think about Nate all-the-time. Sadly, In this book, I felt no attraction sizzling between the two. Nate seemed to realize towards the end and it kind of made me wonder about it all. It just didn't feel right to me. Thankfully, NO love triangle as of yet.
Witch, to me it became obvious who the person was. Nate and Regan were clueless however, till the end. The whole sacrifice and well, why she is doing it is sort of cliche but, it was still interesting to read about her. Of course, the witch is up to NO good and makes me wonder what mayhem will the person cause in the next book?
I did find few typos in the book. Not a big deal to me as it does happen.
Pace, of the book varies throughout the book. It starts off good but, goes on and on and on in the middle. It just drags. Towards the end, it picks up again.
Overall, it was a good enough read with a potential to be better. This book does end on a cliffhanger. I am curious to see where it all leads.
Story, the story is about witches, familiars and hunters. It does go back several centuries into the witch hunt and how the hunters and their companions came to be. I liked that concept as it has been a while since I read a book on wicked witches. The chapters switch between 1645 and 2013 years. The book is from Regan's and Lora's POV. The flashbacks, although they were done well, distracted me a lot. I had to keep my mind going from 1645 in one chapter to 2013 in the other. I know it is a personal preference but, I wish the flashback was done in a prologue or maybe, 1-2 chapters were dedicated to it and rest kept current.
Characters, Regan - is a teen who moved with her family to a new town which is more of a countryside. She's used to more of a city life and is dealing with adjustment issues as expected. But, love for her family keeps her from throwing a full blown tantrum. She makes friends and loves her new job as a bartender. She was a tad whiny few times. Nate - the mystery guy in the beginning and her love interest. I found Nate very flat and not at all swoon worthy. However, he is a badass fighter. In fact, to me, he just came across reactionless most of the time. He just lacked depth for a main guy character. Lora, she is Regan's ancestor and is a strong character despite the era she grew in. Rafe, is Nate's ancestor and is a hunter. Sam, I liked him. He was fun, always flirting, really nice to everyone. I actually liked him better than Nate. The other supporting casts are ok and really don't add much to the story as of yet.
Love Interest - Nate and Regan, honestly, I felt absolutely no chemistry between them. I wanted to but, just did not see it. It all felt one sided from Regan's side. All she did was think about Nate all-the-time. Sadly, In this book, I felt no attraction sizzling between the two. Nate seemed to realize towards the end and it kind of made me wonder about it all. It just didn't feel right to me. Thankfully, NO love triangle as of yet.
Witch, to me it became obvious who the person was. Nate and Regan were clueless however, till the end. The whole sacrifice and well, why she is doing it is sort of cliche but, it was still interesting to read about her. Of course, the witch is up to NO good and makes me wonder what mayhem will the person cause in the next book?
I did find few typos in the book. Not a big deal to me as it does happen.
Pace, of the book varies throughout the book. It starts off good but, goes on and on and on in the middle. It just drags. Towards the end, it picks up again.
Overall, it was a good enough read with a potential to be better. This book does end on a cliffhanger. I am curious to see where it all leads.
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