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Mages and Mates #1
L’incantesimo spezzato
Bartholomew Hollen, professore di magia difensiva alla Utrecht University, voleva solo un incontro senza legami, senza sentimenti e senza strascichi. Niente di complicato, dopo che il suo ex fidanzato aveva provato a darlo in pasto a un demone. Il cuore di Bart, però, ha altre idee. Ma quando vede, in una visione del futuro, che il suo partner occasionale morirà davanti ai suoi occhi per colpa di un altro demone, Bart fa l’unica cosa sensata possibile: scappa via come un ladro nella notte.
Tanto non rivedrà mai più quel tizio.
Caelinus Reinhold ha fatto una cosa che nessun elfo aveva mai fatto prima, diventare professore di magia creativa alla Utrecht University. Il suo primo giorno avrebbe dovuto essere straordinario, se solo fosse riuscito a smettere di pensare al mago sexy con cui aveva avuto un incontro la notte prima, fuggito poi mentre lui dormiva. Oh, be’, era stato quel tipo a perderci.
Tanto non rivedrà mai più quell’idiota.
Le cose diventano bizzarre molto rapidamente quando il dipartimento assegna Bart a Cael come mentore. Nonostante la loro brusca partenza, nessuno dei due può negare che siano stati avvicinati dal fato. Ma le premonizioni di Bart finiscono sempre in tragedia per quello che li riguarda. Non importa quanto provi a cambiare il futuro, è sempre Cael a morire. Come può Bart seguire il proprio cuore, quando la morte di Cael glielo spezzerà di certo?
Tanto non rivedrà mai più quel tizio.
Caelinus Reinhold ha fatto una cosa che nessun elfo aveva mai fatto prima, diventare professore di magia creativa alla Utrecht University. Il suo primo giorno avrebbe dovuto essere straordinario, se solo fosse riuscito a smettere di pensare al mago sexy con cui aveva avuto un incontro la notte prima, fuggito poi mentre lui dormiva. Oh, be’, era stato quel tipo a perderci.
Tanto non rivedrà mai più quell’idiota.
Le cose diventano bizzarre molto rapidamente quando il dipartimento assegna Bart a Cael come mentore. Nonostante la loro brusca partenza, nessuno dei due può negare che siano stati avvicinati dal fato. Ma le premonizioni di Bart finiscono sempre in tragedia per quello che li riguarda. Non importa quanto provi a cambiare il futuro, è sempre Cael a morire. Come può Bart seguire il proprio cuore, quando la morte di Cael glielo spezzerà di certo?
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2022
226 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
January 30, 2023
DNF @ 19%.
I’m not a fan of books opening to a really climatic scene and then just dropping me into a figurative bucket of cold water by skipping over all the aftermath and plunking into the mundane scene.
I also hate dream sequences (or premonitions in this case) written like it’s just a part of the narrative.
But the last straw was:
Cael Chapter 5: I didn’t do intimate when I hooked up
Cael Chapter 6: I wouldn't have gone back to the hotel, much less asked him to stay the night, if I hadn't been positive he was better than that. Which was the root of my irritation. I didn't do players.
I thought you didn’t do intimate, Cael… which is it?
I’m not a fan of books opening to a really climatic scene and then just dropping me into a figurative bucket of cold water by skipping over all the aftermath and plunking into the mundane scene.
I also hate dream sequences (or premonitions in this case) written like it’s just a part of the narrative.
But the last straw was:
Cael Chapter 5: I didn’t do intimate when I hooked up
Cael Chapter 6: I wouldn't have gone back to the hotel, much less asked him to stay the night, if I hadn't been positive he was better than that. Which was the root of my irritation. I didn't do players.
I thought you didn’t do intimate, Cael… which is it?
March 11, 2023
The story started strong and then fizzled out after 60%. I made myself finish it. The writing style is not bad, so I am not discounting reading this author's work again but maybe some other series.
April 16, 2024
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELYXYZ
Dopo aver apprezzato il prequel di questa serie, sono rimasta in attesa di leggerne un altro volume e questo libro mi ha ricompensata!
Da un lato mi dispiace che i protagonisti siano diversi, ma Bart e Cael si fanno presto amare.
Bartholomew Hollen è un talentuoso mago e professore di magia difensiva, mentre Caelinus Reinhold è un elfo e professore di magia creativa, e insieme ne combineranno delle belle.
I due si incontrano in un locale per una notte di sano rotolamento senza complicazioni, la sera prima dell’inizio del nuovo anno accademico, e non immaginano certo che finiranno sia come colleghi ma anche come supervisore e neoassunto, benché coetanei.
Continua sul nostro blog!
Dopo aver apprezzato il prequel di questa serie, sono rimasta in attesa di leggerne un altro volume e questo libro mi ha ricompensata!
Da un lato mi dispiace che i protagonisti siano diversi, ma Bart e Cael si fanno presto amare.
Bartholomew Hollen è un talentuoso mago e professore di magia difensiva, mentre Caelinus Reinhold è un elfo e professore di magia creativa, e insieme ne combineranno delle belle.
I due si incontrano in un locale per una notte di sano rotolamento senza complicazioni, la sera prima dell’inizio del nuovo anno accademico, e non immaginano certo che finiranno sia come colleghi ma anche come supervisore e neoassunto, benché coetanei.
Continua sul nostro blog!
April 24, 2023
I wanted to like this book so much more than I did in the end. It had such promise, but in the end I felt as if the author didn't know who he wanted the characters to be. Cael was the more dominant one but felt subdued most of the time, Bart was introduced as the shy recluse who would rather stay at home and cook and care for those he loved but was the one who made the decisions for everybody all the time. Barts family was supposed to be (in Barts mind too!) cold and out for prestige, but somehow those closest to him seemed to like him quite a bit. On the other hand, his sister is supposed to be savvy and protective but doesn't listen to his counsel at all. His grandmother goes in the span of one meeting from formal to teary eyed because she didn't open up to him and wanting to do better to again withholding vital information to see if he might come to the same conclusion himself (while Bart is reeling and frustrated already) to grudgingly giving in and finally telling him what he needs to know. Then they both withhold information from one another and Bart is seemingly mad only to wake up in Cael's arms and the first thing he says is "Hey handsome," I said. "Thanks form coming to find me. You were amazing." Only to turn things around in the next breath when Cael told him off for putting himself in danger without consulting him.
Then in the next instand the brother was inserted into the paragraph as some sort of levity that completely missed the mark: "Yes, healer. I promise to cooperate." "Who are you, and where's my brother?" Jan put the back of his hand to my forehead. The thing is, ALL Bart has done supposed to be please people around him, he brings food, he cooks and bakes food he doesn't enjoy but knows his siblings will, he goes along with their plans up until he just does his own thing. I fail to see Jan's point as to a change in his personality. Why WOULDN'T he follow instructions when that is what he does best?
And in the conclusion two people walz in again, who we have only met once before in this book for a VERY brief moment, I can only assume that they were the stars in a prequel, only to tell Bart and Cael flat out "I thought that was obvious,"Ignatius said. when they asked why they were here and what was going on. That was SO far from obvious it wasn't funny.
So yeah, a book that could have been great and was nice in its parts but put together felt a little like a jigsaw puzzle put together from different images.
Then in the next instand the brother was inserted into the paragraph as some sort of levity that completely missed the mark: "Yes, healer. I promise to cooperate." "Who are you, and where's my brother?" Jan put the back of his hand to my forehead. The thing is, ALL Bart has done supposed to be please people around him, he brings food, he cooks and bakes food he doesn't enjoy but knows his siblings will, he goes along with their plans up until he just does his own thing. I fail to see Jan's point as to a change in his personality. Why WOULDN'T he follow instructions when that is what he does best?
And in the conclusion two people walz in again, who we have only met once before in this book for a VERY brief moment, I can only assume that they were the stars in a prequel, only to tell Bart and Cael flat out "I thought that was obvious,"Ignatius said. when they asked why they were here and what was going on. That was SO far from obvious it wasn't funny.
So yeah, a book that could have been great and was nice in its parts but put together felt a little like a jigsaw puzzle put together from different images.
November 21, 2022
A story full of amazing magic, with power stones, staffs, ancient swords, spells, wards, mates, mages, shifters, and prophecy.
After a breakup, Bartholomew’s ex and colleague summoned a demon to exterminate him. Only Bart is a professor of defensive magic and a strong mage, he killed the demon.
At a bar, Bart meets Cael and they have a wild night. When Bart experienced a premonition, where his brother and his hookup are dying by yet another demon, Bart turns his back on Cael. They can’t have a future, even if they hit off so great.
New in town Elf Caelinus, professor of creative magic, meets a guy in a bar. They have a wild night and then in a blink of an eye, the man is gone.
Imagine the shock when Bart was appointed as Cael’s faculty mentor.
Cael tried to convince Bart the future he saw in the prophecy is changed. He wants Bart as his lover and companion. Even though they communicate and eat together, Cael sadly has to conclude, Bart will never get that close to him. Just out of protection!
The question is, who’s right? I’m not gonna spoil, it goes way deeper than expected.
The author writes lively, everything was easy to visualize, the magical world is awesomely created, there are some exciting events where I sat on the edge of my chair. It’s clear Cael and Bart are meant for each other, they have great chemistry.
Overall a wonderfully written, entertaining read!
After a breakup, Bartholomew’s ex and colleague summoned a demon to exterminate him. Only Bart is a professor of defensive magic and a strong mage, he killed the demon.
At a bar, Bart meets Cael and they have a wild night. When Bart experienced a premonition, where his brother and his hookup are dying by yet another demon, Bart turns his back on Cael. They can’t have a future, even if they hit off so great.
New in town Elf Caelinus, professor of creative magic, meets a guy in a bar. They have a wild night and then in a blink of an eye, the man is gone.
Imagine the shock when Bart was appointed as Cael’s faculty mentor.
Cael tried to convince Bart the future he saw in the prophecy is changed. He wants Bart as his lover and companion. Even though they communicate and eat together, Cael sadly has to conclude, Bart will never get that close to him. Just out of protection!
The question is, who’s right? I’m not gonna spoil, it goes way deeper than expected.
The author writes lively, everything was easy to visualize, the magical world is awesomely created, there are some exciting events where I sat on the edge of my chair. It’s clear Cael and Bart are meant for each other, they have great chemistry.
Overall a wonderfully written, entertaining read!
November 28, 2022
Dang, I started a new series that I fell in love with, and of course, the next book won't be out for months. This was my first book by this author, but I loved the characters and how real they felt. Bart "Barry" and Cael hooked up, but Bart snuck out after a dream shook his belief that more could come from this hook-up. Neither expected to see the other after that nearly perfect night until they came face-to-face in a staff meeting. Cael has to let go of his anger, and Bart has to learn how to trust again.
I love the world the author started to build, and I hope we see more of the other beings hinted at in future books. Bart's family was interesting, the members he is close with are all warm and inviting, and then you have the other members you can tell he doesn't like because they hold snooty opinions. Cael's family was great, but I wish we got to see more of his parents and meet his brothers.
I love the world the author started to build, and I hope we see more of the other beings hinted at in future books. Bart's family was interesting, the members he is close with are all warm and inviting, and then you have the other members you can tell he doesn't like because they hold snooty opinions. Cael's family was great, but I wish we got to see more of his parents and meet his brothers.
Read
July 8, 2025DNF @ 18%
I was curious about this book because it takes place at Utrecht University, a university which is located in the Netherlands. Many authors make a lot of mistakes when writing about a foreign country, for example when it comes to culture, language, etc. Whenever I see a book written about my country, I'm always curious to see how the writer has handled it.
Imagine my surprise when I found out after reading a couple of pages that this particular Utrecht University, part of Utrecht Academy, is located in … Philadelphia, USA!
It has nothing whatsoever to do with the Netherlands.
I find it a bit odd that the writer named an academy for mages after a real university. Why didn't he simply pick a random name?
It's rather confusing because the blurb doesn't say anything about it not being the real Utrecht University. Quite a dealbreaker for me.
I also DNF because I didn't like Bart and Cael's respective roles in the bedroom. It's simply not my preference.
I was curious about this book because it takes place at Utrecht University, a university which is located in the Netherlands. Many authors make a lot of mistakes when writing about a foreign country, for example when it comes to culture, language, etc. Whenever I see a book written about my country, I'm always curious to see how the writer has handled it.
Imagine my surprise when I found out after reading a couple of pages that this particular Utrecht University, part of Utrecht Academy, is located in … Philadelphia, USA!
It has nothing whatsoever to do with the Netherlands.
I find it a bit odd that the writer named an academy for mages after a real university. Why didn't he simply pick a random name?
It's rather confusing because the blurb doesn't say anything about it not being the real Utrecht University. Quite a dealbreaker for me.
I also DNF because I didn't like Bart and Cael's respective roles in the bedroom. It's simply not my preference.
May 18, 2024
4 stelle e mezzo
Una bella avventura, dal ritmo incalzante.
I due protagonisti sono caratterizzati a tutto tondo, tutte le loro emozioni arrivano con vividezza e ci si affeziona loro in un attimo.
L'evoluzione degli eventi è trascinante, forse un po' prevedibile, ma conunque avvincente.
Il worldbilding non è definito, ma la storia si svolge con naturalezza, senza artificio o incongruenze, quindi la cosa non mi ha infastidita per nulla.
La trama orizzontale si sta dipanando, molte sono le domande rimaste aperte e non vedo l'ora di conoscere i prossimi protagonisti e le future svolte. Attendo con gioia.
Hugs&kisses
Una bella avventura, dal ritmo incalzante.
I due protagonisti sono caratterizzati a tutto tondo, tutte le loro emozioni arrivano con vividezza e ci si affeziona loro in un attimo.
L'evoluzione degli eventi è trascinante, forse un po' prevedibile, ma conunque avvincente.
Il worldbilding non è definito, ma la storia si svolge con naturalezza, senza artificio o incongruenze, quindi la cosa non mi ha infastidita per nulla.
La trama orizzontale si sta dipanando, molte sono le domande rimaste aperte e non vedo l'ora di conoscere i prossimi protagonisti e le future svolte. Attendo con gioia.
Hugs&kisses
May 19, 2023
Good Beginning
I'm rounding this up from 3.5. For the most part I enjoyed the story. It is a highly magic oriented story with a twist on fated mates. There were just quite a few things that threw the story off a bit for me. I am still very interested in reading the next book though.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I'm rounding this up from 3.5. For the most part I enjoyed the story. It is a highly magic oriented story with a twist on fated mates. There were just quite a few things that threw the story off a bit for me. I am still very interested in reading the next book though.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
April 11, 2024
Un fantasy magic suspence molto bello 🤩
Ho adorato letteralmente Bartholomew Hollen, potente mago e professore di magia difensiva e anche Caelinus Reinhold ( anche se certe volte lo avrei preso volentieri a sberle ) elfo e professore di magia creativa.
Si prospetta un guerra e la Barriera Magica deve essere protetta da compagni predestinati!!
💖💖💖💖+💋
Ho adorato letteralmente Bartholomew Hollen, potente mago e professore di magia difensiva e anche Caelinus Reinhold ( anche se certe volte lo avrei preso volentieri a sberle ) elfo e professore di magia creativa.
Si prospetta un guerra e la Barriera Magica deve essere protetta da compagni predestinati!!
💖💖💖💖+💋
July 14, 2023
Too many questions and not enough answers.
While I enjoyed the story and the characters, there wasn't much depth given to anyone or anything. The title of the review says it all.
While I enjoyed the story and the characters, there wasn't much depth given to anyone or anything. The title of the review says it all.
October 11, 2023
Started well, but fizzled out before the halfway point, really. The overarching plot to do with the wards and the Guardians, which has potential, but it's stretched too thin and there's a lot of inconsistency in the characterisation. Might try book 2 but honestly, this was pretty forgettable so I might not remember to pick it up given the number of other series I'm reading and am invested in.
August 16, 2023
excellent storytelling, wonderful characters and world building
Rating: 4.5🌈
Andy Gallo’s Break The Spell is such a great introduction to this author’s writing if you’re not familiar with his work already. The first in a new fantasy series, Mages and Mates, it’s full of fully realized characters, an amazing world who’s foundation of magical powers and knowledge appears to be expanding with each new story, and a dark exciting mystery that’s an overall arc for the series.
Did I say sexy as well? Yes, it’s that too.
I really appreciated that it seems to start with a shocking scene that introduces us to Bartholomew Hollen, one of THE mage family Hollens, powerful, wealthy, and at the center of all things magical. At least in Philadelphia.
Gallo will expand on who Bart is, his role in the Hollen family, the famous Utrecht University, and as a mage worldwide. We get slowly lead into it as events allow. That lets the author reveal more of Bart’s character, personality, and history. It’s a fantastic way to develop the story and character together.
And it works not only for Bart but for the elf Caelinus Reinhold, who’s arrived in Philadelphia from Chicago to become the professor of creative magic at Utrecht University. His character becomes entwined with that of Bart’s almost immediately.
Gallo builds the suspense and mystery through various scenes and storylines. It’s in past histories and seen through current events. And while that arc’s mystery thread is being explored, Gallo is also building the relationship between a fearful Bart and Cael, whose feelings have him trying to figure out how to make Bart take a chance on them both.
The university, the Hollen family members, and magical powers are included in the fabric of this storyline that are fantastically creative elements.
Is there a resolution? Only to the couple’s scenario here. The overall arc mystery rolls forward. The ending came about a tad suddenly for me and was the only reason this didn’t earn the full five stars.
I’m heading to the next book and highly recommending you start here if you’re a lover of fantasy novels and magical romance. This has tons of both and won’t disappoint!
Mages and Mates:
- [x] Break The Spell #1
- [ ] It Spells Trouble #2
- [ ] Under A Spell #3 - March 26,2024
Rating: 4.5🌈
Andy Gallo’s Break The Spell is such a great introduction to this author’s writing if you’re not familiar with his work already. The first in a new fantasy series, Mages and Mates, it’s full of fully realized characters, an amazing world who’s foundation of magical powers and knowledge appears to be expanding with each new story, and a dark exciting mystery that’s an overall arc for the series.
Did I say sexy as well? Yes, it’s that too.
I really appreciated that it seems to start with a shocking scene that introduces us to Bartholomew Hollen, one of THE mage family Hollens, powerful, wealthy, and at the center of all things magical. At least in Philadelphia.
Gallo will expand on who Bart is, his role in the Hollen family, the famous Utrecht University, and as a mage worldwide. We get slowly lead into it as events allow. That lets the author reveal more of Bart’s character, personality, and history. It’s a fantastic way to develop the story and character together.
And it works not only for Bart but for the elf Caelinus Reinhold, who’s arrived in Philadelphia from Chicago to become the professor of creative magic at Utrecht University. His character becomes entwined with that of Bart’s almost immediately.
Gallo builds the suspense and mystery through various scenes and storylines. It’s in past histories and seen through current events. And while that arc’s mystery thread is being explored, Gallo is also building the relationship between a fearful Bart and Cael, whose feelings have him trying to figure out how to make Bart take a chance on them both.
The university, the Hollen family members, and magical powers are included in the fabric of this storyline that are fantastically creative elements.
Is there a resolution? Only to the couple’s scenario here. The overall arc mystery rolls forward. The ending came about a tad suddenly for me and was the only reason this didn’t earn the full five stars.
I’m heading to the next book and highly recommending you start here if you’re a lover of fantasy novels and magical romance. This has tons of both and won’t disappoint!
Mages and Mates:
- [x] Break The Spell #1
- [ ] It Spells Trouble #2
- [ ] Under A Spell #3 - March 26,2024
May 9, 2023
Break the Spell (Magic and Mates 1)
By Andy Gallo
Published by Gallorious Readers, 2022
Four stars
A fun start to what promises to be an interesting, action-and-magic-filled series.
Caelinus Reinhold is an elf who’s done well for himself. In spite of his race and his middle-class background in Chicago, Cael’s magical talent has snagged him a plum job at Utrecht University in Philadelphia—the premier magic university in the country. Everything he’s worked so hard for has paid off.
Bartholomew Hollen is a scion of the richest and most powerful magical family in the country. Bart is also the most powerful mage of his generation, and at twenty-eight has his life well in hand.
Except for the fact that his ex-boyfriend Declan summoned a demon to eat him.
In classic m/m style, Bart and Cael hook up at a Philadelphia club for what it supposed to be a one-nighter. Their apparent instant attraction and compatibility bodes well, until a nightmare vision leaves Bart sneaking out of Cael’s apartment in the wee hours of the morning.
Only to find out that Cael is the new hire at the university, and that Bart has been assigned to be his faculty mentor.
Awkward. And it only gets more so as these two young mages have to cope with the reality that their mutual attraction is still strong, and they need to figure out how to move forward with Bart’s family and the whole university watching them. The author lets us really get to know these guys, and helps us understand their motivations and their backgrounds.
I liked this variation on the classic m/m theme, with lots of complicated magic and insight into both men’s cultures. As the sort of literary genre that posits a magical world integrated with the human world, it’s fun to see how Andy Gallo plays out his distinctive vision for his characters and his long-game plot arcs.
Romance and magic alternate on the page, winding up to a hair-raising climax and an excellent set-up for the next book in the series – which I’ve already ordered.
By Andy Gallo
Published by Gallorious Readers, 2022
Four stars
A fun start to what promises to be an interesting, action-and-magic-filled series.
Caelinus Reinhold is an elf who’s done well for himself. In spite of his race and his middle-class background in Chicago, Cael’s magical talent has snagged him a plum job at Utrecht University in Philadelphia—the premier magic university in the country. Everything he’s worked so hard for has paid off.
Bartholomew Hollen is a scion of the richest and most powerful magical family in the country. Bart is also the most powerful mage of his generation, and at twenty-eight has his life well in hand.
Except for the fact that his ex-boyfriend Declan summoned a demon to eat him.
In classic m/m style, Bart and Cael hook up at a Philadelphia club for what it supposed to be a one-nighter. Their apparent instant attraction and compatibility bodes well, until a nightmare vision leaves Bart sneaking out of Cael’s apartment in the wee hours of the morning.
Only to find out that Cael is the new hire at the university, and that Bart has been assigned to be his faculty mentor.
Awkward. And it only gets more so as these two young mages have to cope with the reality that their mutual attraction is still strong, and they need to figure out how to move forward with Bart’s family and the whole university watching them. The author lets us really get to know these guys, and helps us understand their motivations and their backgrounds.
I liked this variation on the classic m/m theme, with lots of complicated magic and insight into both men’s cultures. As the sort of literary genre that posits a magical world integrated with the human world, it’s fun to see how Andy Gallo plays out his distinctive vision for his characters and his long-game plot arcs.
Romance and magic alternate on the page, winding up to a hair-raising climax and an excellent set-up for the next book in the series – which I’ve already ordered.
February 6, 2026
This is the first book in Andy Gallo’s Mages & Mates series. I read the book a couple of years ago and am thrilled to review the audio edition. For those who enjoy immersion into the world of mages, elves, demons and paranormal this book is a treat. Set in an academic enclave built to train young mages, Bart and Cael are both professors of magic. These men are gorgeous and talented mages who have an instant attraction to one another when they meet for the first time in a bar the weekend before school starts. When Bart has a terrible prophetic dream that Cael will die in a demon attack if they get involved with one another beyond collegial friendship, the two mages are forced to resist their intense sexual and emotional attraction to one another. Break the Spell introduces us to a world where the Earth is protected from demons by ancient magical seals that separate the two planes of existence. The four seals are guarded by mated magical beings in the N, S, W, and E quadrants on Earth. One of these seals seems to be weakening, allowing a nefarious unknown but powerful mage(s) to summon demons to Earth. Why would anyone want to destroy life on Earth and who is behind the destructive goal? Read the book to find out!
I found this book to be a story that I couldn’t put down, and the audio edition is fabulously narrated by two talented voice actors, Michael Casale and Kirt Graves. I have already read the next three books in the series and am impatiently awaiting the audio edition release of all the next books. This is a series that I will read and listen to the end. Andy Gallo is a talented author worth following.
I found this book to be a story that I couldn’t put down, and the audio edition is fabulously narrated by two talented voice actors, Michael Casale and Kirt Graves. I have already read the next three books in the series and am impatiently awaiting the audio edition release of all the next books. This is a series that I will read and listen to the end. Andy Gallo is a talented author worth following.
November 5, 2022
This is a new author for me but this first book won't be the last.
A hook up which feels like more but a premonition which isn't suppose to be possible throws two mages off.
Bart and Cael are both teachers for magic and look like an ideal match, if only Bart wouldn't be haunted by premonitions which - according to all rules - shouldn't exist. Bart is determind to keep Cael in a friend zone to ensure the dreams don't become reality. But life and a potential demon attack seem to be trying their best to intervene.
They both have to realise they need to work together to stop the demon and ensure a HEA for the magical world.
Bart and Cael are a great couple. There is chemistry and both characters are well developed to show depths. The setting at a university for magic could be cringy but it's not Harry Potter at all.
I love how both guys try to stay in a friend zone after the initial anger of Bart's disappearing act and when Bart confesses his premonitions. It is so clear that they are kind of courting each other without even trying.
What is lacking is some form of background/world explanation. Cael's eleven background is not explained at all until they have to travel there. Bart's family background and the council are thrown in without better explanations how the world is set up and a kind of "who's who". Originally it felt as if this book was a sequel in a series, not the first one.
I will definitely continue reading this series.
A hook up which feels like more but a premonition which isn't suppose to be possible throws two mages off.
Bart and Cael are both teachers for magic and look like an ideal match, if only Bart wouldn't be haunted by premonitions which - according to all rules - shouldn't exist. Bart is determind to keep Cael in a friend zone to ensure the dreams don't become reality. But life and a potential demon attack seem to be trying their best to intervene.
They both have to realise they need to work together to stop the demon and ensure a HEA for the magical world.
Bart and Cael are a great couple. There is chemistry and both characters are well developed to show depths. The setting at a university for magic could be cringy but it's not Harry Potter at all.
I love how both guys try to stay in a friend zone after the initial anger of Bart's disappearing act and when Bart confesses his premonitions. It is so clear that they are kind of courting each other without even trying.
What is lacking is some form of background/world explanation. Cael's eleven background is not explained at all until they have to travel there. Bart's family background and the council are thrown in without better explanations how the world is set up and a kind of "who's who". Originally it felt as if this book was a sequel in a series, not the first one.
I will definitely continue reading this series.
November 18, 2022
I enjoyed the way this book started, straight into the action of Bart nearly being killed by a demon. And then things slow considerably as we then have Bart and Cael meet, and then meet again as colleagues.
It was obvious when they first met that there could be something special between the two. It takes persistence from Cael as Bart is determined to keep the elf safe and avoid what happens in his vision. The relationship development between the two was fun to read as Bart attempts to fight his increasing attraction and need for Cael. There is still the serious element in the background, though, that a demon will be coming, a serious hitter, a lot worse than the first one we meet but it's the unknown of it all. There's also, unsurprisingly, secrets that are uncovered as Bart experiences another vision and things go a lot deeper than thought in the beginning.
There are hints of a much deeper plan in place that I'm interested to find out more from and, with how things are left for Bart and Cael, it's about to get a lot more intense for them. They have each other, though, and the strength of the bond that they build can withstand anything. I enjoyed reading both men's families. Each one a little Kookie, and Bart's especially is just on another level because of who his family is in the Mage world.
An entertaining fantasy/paranormal read with a great cast of characters and interesting plot.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
It was obvious when they first met that there could be something special between the two. It takes persistence from Cael as Bart is determined to keep the elf safe and avoid what happens in his vision. The relationship development between the two was fun to read as Bart attempts to fight his increasing attraction and need for Cael. There is still the serious element in the background, though, that a demon will be coming, a serious hitter, a lot worse than the first one we meet but it's the unknown of it all. There's also, unsurprisingly, secrets that are uncovered as Bart experiences another vision and things go a lot deeper than thought in the beginning.
There are hints of a much deeper plan in place that I'm interested to find out more from and, with how things are left for Bart and Cael, it's about to get a lot more intense for them. They have each other, though, and the strength of the bond that they build can withstand anything. I enjoyed reading both men's families. Each one a little Kookie, and Bart's especially is just on another level because of who his family is in the Mage world.
An entertaining fantasy/paranormal read with a great cast of characters and interesting plot.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
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January 31, 20262,5-2,75/5
I wanted to like Break the Spell far more than I ultimately did. It started with so much promise: an interesting magical world, a romance setup that had potential, and the kind of energy that usually pulls me right into a story. For the first few chapters, I was genuinely invested. But as the book progressed, it lost its spark. The plot began to drag, the emotional beats didn’t hit as deeply as they could have, and I found myself gradually disconnecting from the characters and their journey.
Kirt Graves was a highlight. His delivery was smooth, emotive, and reliable—exactly what I’ve come to expect from him, and a definite strength in this audiobook.
Michael Casale’s narration, however, left me a bit uncertain. It wasn’t ba, far from it, but I struggled to decide whether his voice and style worked for me in this particular context. Perhaps it was the dual narration format that made it harder to get a clear sense of his rhythm and strengths. I think I’d need to listen to a solo project of his to really make up my mind.
In the end, Break the Spell wasn’t a bad listen, but it wasn’t particularly memorable either. It had potential, and I’m still curious about where the series might go, but I’ll be approaching the next installment with more cautious expectations.
I wanted to like Break the Spell far more than I ultimately did. It started with so much promise: an interesting magical world, a romance setup that had potential, and the kind of energy that usually pulls me right into a story. For the first few chapters, I was genuinely invested. But as the book progressed, it lost its spark. The plot began to drag, the emotional beats didn’t hit as deeply as they could have, and I found myself gradually disconnecting from the characters and their journey.
Kirt Graves was a highlight. His delivery was smooth, emotive, and reliable—exactly what I’ve come to expect from him, and a definite strength in this audiobook.
Michael Casale’s narration, however, left me a bit uncertain. It wasn’t ba, far from it, but I struggled to decide whether his voice and style worked for me in this particular context. Perhaps it was the dual narration format that made it harder to get a clear sense of his rhythm and strengths. I think I’d need to listen to a solo project of his to really make up my mind.
In the end, Break the Spell wasn’t a bad listen, but it wasn’t particularly memorable either. It had potential, and I’m still curious about where the series might go, but I’ll be approaching the next installment with more cautious expectations.
November 22, 2022
I came for the premise– magic, demons, elves, a nebulous yet sinister menace that will necessitate heroics, plus, you know…a university of magic users– and stayed for a number of reasons. Firstly, the execution lived up to much of the potential of that premise (I am hoping for more world building in future installments of the series, but what this book does offer is intriguing and nicely done). Secondly, the characters are seriously easy to get attached to– I liked, so much, the chemistry between Bart and Cael. Their path isn’t easy: they might be drawn to each other, but little things like *checks notes* a demon-summoning ex, recurring premonitions of death, a hookup ghosting situation turned necessary working relationship, etc. do have a slight tendency to complicate a relationship arc. Tl;dr: I liked this book, a lot, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of these characters and this world.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 12, 2025
It feels weird to skim a bunch of opinions about low/closed-door spice being this author’s wheelhouse, then see Grade A sex scenes that complement the story and hit right every time. I gotta stop wandering through reviews, where everyone seems to be just as confused as they make me.
I went and did my research, buddies, and not that it makes a fuck-all bit of difference to me, but at least they were wrong and I didn’t have to worry about another Wheeler sitch. Blech.
I am officially deeply invested, obsessed, entranced, enTRENCHED, whatever… And that’s all I gotta say about that. The characters are still giving, the overarching plot and smaller storylines are great, and while there are times I’d like more information/detail, it’s enough for me to extrapolate what I need to fill in the gaps.
We all know the shit I’m looking for isn’t normal, anyway, so it’s all shit no one else would even notice or care about.
4.5/5. Off to the next one, because it’s a need and not a want.
I went and did my research, buddies, and not that it makes a fuck-all bit of difference to me, but at least they were wrong and I didn’t have to worry about another Wheeler sitch. Blech.
I am officially deeply invested, obsessed, entranced, enTRENCHED, whatever… And that’s all I gotta say about that. The characters are still giving, the overarching plot and smaller storylines are great, and while there are times I’d like more information/detail, it’s enough for me to extrapolate what I need to fill in the gaps.
We all know the shit I’m looking for isn’t normal, anyway, so it’s all shit no one else would even notice or care about.
4.5/5. Off to the next one, because it’s a need and not a want.
March 18, 2023
A good concept, but I'm not so sure about the execution. It was a bit too insta-love for my tastes, and the period where they were trying to be separated felt very short and like they weren't even trying. The magic seemed interesting enough, but the concept of elf shifters that look just like humans also made me wonder what the point was really. I didn't like reading "all the feels" as part of the narration, it only happened twice but that's two times too many I think. I was interested in Bart's character and would have liked to know more about him and his history with his family and why he didn't seem wholly connected to them, but I also think he felt a bit too "perfect" at times.
All that said, I still mostly liked it and will probably be reading future entries in the series because I'm curious where the overall story will go
All that said, I still mostly liked it and will probably be reading future entries in the series because I'm curious where the overall story will go
November 9, 2022
I really enjoyed this first book in a new series. I'm a fan of any stories involving academics real world or magical and when Bart and Cael have what both think is a one-night fling (although for very different reasons) it is interesting to see them meet again in the inevitable romance situation where both are faculty members in magic at Utrecht University with Bart assigned as Cael's mentor. These two have amazing chemistry but there is a darkness hanging over all their interactions because of Bart's premonitions of nothing but death. The ending of this story leaves us with some dangers eradicated but the knowledge that there are others out there. Looking forward to more in this series. I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 19, 2022
I fell in love with Bartholomew and Cael almost instantly. Their chemistry is insane and they couldn’t be more perfect for each other. Cael is an elf in new territory and Bartholomew is a member of the prestigious and extremely magical Hollen family. But something is going on at Utrecht University where they both teach, and it’s nothing good. I loved this world that Andy Gallo has created and his characters are fabulous. I got quickly hooked into this story and couldn’t stop reading it. I am excited to see what is going to happen as more people find their mates and …. I can’t really say without giving spoilers so I will stop there. . This book is so good and worth a read.
May 27, 2023
So, I ended up reading this book out of order, starting the series at book two. And despite knowing that the two MCs in this book were going to be fated mates and defeat the big bad demon (and that is NOT a spoiler, FYI, this is a paranormal romance after all), the journey is the key. Gallo doesn't appear to be an author who unnecessarily tortures his MCs. So we know all will be well. And the plot is helped along with an enjoyable storyline. And excellent worldbuilding.
Bart and Cael have a delicious, nerdy appeal. Red hot chemistry. They have loyal and loving families. The secondary characters (i.e. family members) are interesting. And it's just a lovely story.
Book three doesn't come out for almost another year. Bahhh. So long to have to wait.
Bart and Cael have a delicious, nerdy appeal. Red hot chemistry. They have loyal and loving families. The secondary characters (i.e. family members) are interesting. And it's just a lovely story.
Book three doesn't come out for almost another year. Bahhh. So long to have to wait.
November 21, 2022
Bart and Cael are magical. In the literal sense. One is a mage, the other an elf. They meet at a club and things get hot 🔥
Bart and Cael have amazing chemistry right from the start. They meet before realizing the both are teachers at a mage university. Due to Bart’s premonitions their connection seems doomed from the get-go.
The story is filled with magic, action and suspense. In my opinion the characters are well developed. Andy Gallo is a new to me author.
I would have loved some more explanations world-building wise. It took me quite a while to get into the story and the setting of the story but once “I got it” it was magical.
Bart and Cael have amazing chemistry right from the start. They meet before realizing the both are teachers at a mage university. Due to Bart’s premonitions their connection seems doomed from the get-go.
The story is filled with magic, action and suspense. In my opinion the characters are well developed. Andy Gallo is a new to me author.
I would have loved some more explanations world-building wise. It took me quite a while to get into the story and the setting of the story but once “I got it” it was magical.
September 24, 2023
"Break the Spell" received THREE AND A HALF stars.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
February 11, 2024
I love well-written paranormals like this one. It was imaginatively conceived and lovingly executed. I was thinking this before I saw this line, and thought it applied to the writing as well - "Funny how few words we'd spoken, but how much we'd said." This was indeed compact, telling so much in a few words.
The world building was just right, making sense and painting a wonderful picture, while not being too detailed to bog it down. It moved along at a good pace, and I could visualize the action as it was happening. And I fell in love with the mates and how their relationship developed. I can't wait to meet the next pair of mates.
The world building was just right, making sense and painting a wonderful picture, while not being too detailed to bog it down. It moved along at a good pace, and I could visualize the action as it was happening. And I fell in love with the mates and how their relationship developed. I can't wait to meet the next pair of mates.
March 30, 2024
Loved this book. The story starts with Bart facing off with his ex when he summoned a demon to kill him. Fast forward a few months and Cael is starting a new job as a teacher at a mage school. He went out to a local bar and hit it off with Barry. When Barry snuck off before morning, Cael was disappointed. He went to school on Monday and was introduced to Bart, his companion from Friday night. This started their story with trying to save the school from demons, learning to work together and learning how to be together. Love the chemistry between them. Great world building and looking forward to reading the next book,.
June 24, 2024
Break
Wow!!! This book is good! I am giving it a 5/5. It kept me interested from the start until the end. Cael is an elf who accepts a job at a very prestigious mage school. Bart is a human mage and part of the ruling mage family. He goes out one night and meets Cael and the two hook up. They both have an awesome time but Bart has a vision where Cael dies and he ghosts Cael. But the two discover that Bart is assigned to be Cael’s mentor. So now the two men have to redefine their relationship and Bart has to figure out what is causing these premonitions. I am going to buy the next book in this series.
Wow!!! This book is good! I am giving it a 5/5. It kept me interested from the start until the end. Cael is an elf who accepts a job at a very prestigious mage school. Bart is a human mage and part of the ruling mage family. He goes out one night and meets Cael and the two hook up. They both have an awesome time but Bart has a vision where Cael dies and he ghosts Cael. But the two discover that Bart is assigned to be Cael’s mentor. So now the two men have to redefine their relationship and Bart has to figure out what is causing these premonitions. I am going to buy the next book in this series.
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