What do you think?
Rate this book
The Light Mage Wars #0.5
Sentinel
This is a 45,000-word novella
He’s on a Quest for Justice
Her Secrets are his Only Hope
When mage investigative reporter Rick Moore gets the unexpected chance to clear his father’s name, it looks like a dream come true. But there’s a price. He must first uncover the truth about the mage world’s most wanted fugitive.
Caroline Dare knows her beloved brother had a reason for killing a member of the mages’ governing council. Real heroes don’t go rogue on a whim. Burned by shady reporters, she pours her devastating worry for him into her fabric art career and maintains stony silence about him. But when her art is panned as a fraud because she’s blind, she’s forced to seek help from Rick, a man she knows only as a sexy arts writer.
Helping beautiful, determined Caroline prove her art is her own gets Rick inside her well tended walls. But as he wins her trust, he finds he’s losing his heart. Now he has a choice--give up his dream or betray the woman he loves.
He’s on a Quest for Justice
Her Secrets are his Only Hope
When mage investigative reporter Rick Moore gets the unexpected chance to clear his father’s name, it looks like a dream come true. But there’s a price. He must first uncover the truth about the mage world’s most wanted fugitive.
Caroline Dare knows her beloved brother had a reason for killing a member of the mages’ governing council. Real heroes don’t go rogue on a whim. Burned by shady reporters, she pours her devastating worry for him into her fabric art career and maintains stony silence about him. But when her art is panned as a fraud because she’s blind, she’s forced to seek help from Rick, a man she knows only as a sexy arts writer.
Helping beautiful, determined Caroline prove her art is her own gets Rick inside her well tended walls. But as he wins her trust, he finds he’s losing his heart. Now he has a choice--give up his dream or betray the woman he loves.
246 pages, Paperback
First published March 25, 2014
2 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Northcott
40 books79 followersNancy Northcott’s childhood ambition was to grow up and become Wonder Woman. Around fourth grade, she realized it was too late to acquire Amazon genes, but she still loved comic books, science fiction, fantasy and YA romance. A sucker for fast action and wrenching emotion, Nancy combines the romance and high stakes she loves in the books she writes.
Her debut novel, Renegade, received a starred review from Library Journal. The reviewer called it “genre fiction at its best.” Nancy is a three-time RWA Golden Heart finalist and has won the Maggie, the Molly, the Emerald City Opener, and Put Your Heart in a Book.
Married since 1987, Nancy and her husband have one son, a bossy dog, and a house full of books.
Her debut novel, Renegade, received a starred review from Library Journal. The reviewer called it “genre fiction at its best.” Nancy is a three-time RWA Golden Heart finalist and has won the Maggie, the Molly, the Emerald City Opener, and Put Your Heart in a Book.
Married since 1987, Nancy and her husband have one son, a bossy dog, and a house full of books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 17, 2021
Sentinel by Nancy Northcott
A Light Mage Wars novella 0.5. Paranormal romance.
A shared world of magic users hidden from the mundane.
Rick is a journalist. He befriends Caroline hoping to get information on her brother, a hero turned accused traitor. As Rick and Caro get to know each other, Rick feels guilty about using her for his own agenda (which redeems him!). Caro has trust issues having been burned in the past.
A important part of the story is Caroline’s blindness. She is a strong heroine leading an independent life. Her magic gives her a slight advantage in her weaving but it’s her physical fighting of a ghoul that impressed me the most.
As part of a story conflict, I was impressed with the hero’s path to winning the day and the heroine.
Overall a strong and well written fantasy novella. Gripping to the end. I’m looking forward to reading this series in full. Soon.
4.5
A Light Mage Wars novella 0.5. Paranormal romance.
A shared world of magic users hidden from the mundane.
Rick is a journalist. He befriends Caroline hoping to get information on her brother, a hero turned accused traitor. As Rick and Caro get to know each other, Rick feels guilty about using her for his own agenda (which redeems him!). Caro has trust issues having been burned in the past.
A important part of the story is Caroline’s blindness. She is a strong heroine leading an independent life. Her magic gives her a slight advantage in her weaving but it’s her physical fighting of a ghoul that impressed me the most.
As part of a story conflict, I was impressed with the hero’s path to winning the day and the heroine.
Overall a strong and well written fantasy novella. Gripping to the end. I’m looking forward to reading this series in full. Soon.
4.5
September 1, 2016
Rick’s father was wrongfully sentenced to death, and now, after 18 years, he finally has the chance to clear his name. But that means getting a story on Caro’s brother, who has been MIA for years. And by doing so, he is deceiving Caro, who he might be having a little crush on...
Rick is a news reporter, and follows leads on all sorts of Mage related items. Caro is blind, and is able to ‘see’ by touching, and has high hopes to forge her own way in life by selling her own tapestries.
A slow start... Waiting for something to speed up the pace... After interesting sped-up scenario, slow again...
The pace is just too slow for me, but it has lots of interesting content. Including fighting Ghools, and a little bitta romance!
Rick searches for Griffin Dare, Caro’s brother. But he can’t find him anywhere, and when no new leads turn up, he has to decide whether to pursue him or spend time with Caro...
The fighting isn't up to par either, but you can tell that the author has put up a good effort.
The overall content of this book is pretty good, and I would definitely recommend if you like a slow build up!
I received a copy of Sentinel in exchange for an honest review
Rick is a news reporter, and follows leads on all sorts of Mage related items. Caro is blind, and is able to ‘see’ by touching, and has high hopes to forge her own way in life by selling her own tapestries.
A slow start... Waiting for something to speed up the pace... After interesting sped-up scenario, slow again...
The pace is just too slow for me, but it has lots of interesting content. Including fighting Ghools, and a little bitta romance!
Rick searches for Griffin Dare, Caro’s brother. But he can’t find him anywhere, and when no new leads turn up, he has to decide whether to pursue him or spend time with Caro...
The fighting isn't up to par either, but you can tell that the author has put up a good effort.
The overall content of this book is pretty good, and I would definitely recommend if you like a slow build up!
I received a copy of Sentinel in exchange for an honest review
March 28, 2014
A great novella with a big story!
This was my first Nancy Northcott book, and it will not be my last. I was a little nervous about jumping into the series before reading the other releases, but it was not an issue at all. I had no problem following along with the story and getting caught up in the world of the Light Mage Wars. Northcott actually did a superb job explaining the world. The information wasn't overwhelming or repetitive, which can sometimes happen, especially in novellas. Everything was explained perfectly! Rick and Caro's story was very interesting! They were great characters, and their interaction and chemistry was fascinating. I'm definitely going to read the rest of these stories, and I hope to see many more off them in the future! I received this book as a gift in exchange for an honest review, and loved it!!!
This was my first Nancy Northcott book, and it will not be my last. I was a little nervous about jumping into the series before reading the other releases, but it was not an issue at all. I had no problem following along with the story and getting caught up in the world of the Light Mage Wars. Northcott actually did a superb job explaining the world. The information wasn't overwhelming or repetitive, which can sometimes happen, especially in novellas. Everything was explained perfectly! Rick and Caro's story was very interesting! They were great characters, and their interaction and chemistry was fascinating. I'm definitely going to read the rest of these stories, and I hope to see many more off them in the future! I received this book as a gift in exchange for an honest review, and loved it!!!
March 29, 2014
This is a fantastic story it will take you on a journey of magic and ghouls and a sensual romance between Caro and Rick both mages who have things from their past that they need to right. Rick a journalist and writer and is doing a story on Caro who is a creator of fantastic tapestrys and she is also blind and her brother Griff has been named a traitor to the mages and has been missing for 3 years since he supposedly murdered a mage leader. This is the story that comes before Griff's story in Renegade and is a must read :) If you haven't read this series yet don't miss it they really are wonderful stories that have given me hours of reading pleasure.
April 16, 2014
Definitely 4 1/2 stars.... ;)
Have you ever picked up a story simply because it was by an author you really liked? Yeah, that was a pretty silly question… Ever since I picked up the first book in Nancy Northcott’s The Protectors series I was hooked. Renegade, Protector and Guardian quickly became some of my favorite PNR books. The world building was fantastic and the characters were amazing. I found myself anxiously awaiting each new installment. When I saw that she had a new novella out that was a prequel to a new series I didn’t hesitate. Even though it wasn’t a new installment of The Protectors I knew that I would like it just as much as the others. I obviously wasn’t paying attention because not only is Sentinel the prequel to Nancy Northcott’s Light Mage Wars series, it’s also a sort of sequel to The Protectors series as well. That is definitely a win/win as far as this reader is concerned. ;)
As far as series introductions go, Sentinel did an amazing job. I’ve pretty much made it clear before that novellas can be either hit of miss with me. The misses happen when the story is so short that I’m left wanting more… and not in a good way, but in a cheated way. Rick and Caroline’s story wasn’t rushed or forced. The story wasn’t long, but no time with them was wasted and readers were given a perfect introduction into the mage world and it was the perfect set up for things to come. I got so wrapped up in the story that I almost forgot that I already knew where things would inevitably lead. For that reason I have no qualms about recommending Sentinel to readers who haven’t been introduced to Nancy Northcott’s writing yet. It’s enough of a taste that you will be left wanting more… in a very good way. If you have read The Protectors, you’re in for a treat. Once I finished I was ready to schedule an impromptu re-read of Renegade.
Have you ever picked up a story simply because it was by an author you really liked? Yeah, that was a pretty silly question… Ever since I picked up the first book in Nancy Northcott’s The Protectors series I was hooked. Renegade, Protector and Guardian quickly became some of my favorite PNR books. The world building was fantastic and the characters were amazing. I found myself anxiously awaiting each new installment. When I saw that she had a new novella out that was a prequel to a new series I didn’t hesitate. Even though it wasn’t a new installment of The Protectors I knew that I would like it just as much as the others. I obviously wasn’t paying attention because not only is Sentinel the prequel to Nancy Northcott’s Light Mage Wars series, it’s also a sort of sequel to The Protectors series as well. That is definitely a win/win as far as this reader is concerned. ;)
As far as series introductions go, Sentinel did an amazing job. I’ve pretty much made it clear before that novellas can be either hit of miss with me. The misses happen when the story is so short that I’m left wanting more… and not in a good way, but in a cheated way. Rick and Caroline’s story wasn’t rushed or forced. The story wasn’t long, but no time with them was wasted and readers were given a perfect introduction into the mage world and it was the perfect set up for things to come. I got so wrapped up in the story that I almost forgot that I already knew where things would inevitably lead. For that reason I have no qualms about recommending Sentinel to readers who haven’t been introduced to Nancy Northcott’s writing yet. It’s enough of a taste that you will be left wanting more… in a very good way. If you have read The Protectors, you’re in for a treat. Once I finished I was ready to schedule an impromptu re-read of Renegade.
May 11, 2014
This is a love story about a tapestry artist who is blind and a writer who wants to clear his fathers tarnished name. There's magic, ghouls and betrayal. Caro is from a very wealthy protective family and she's trying to prove that she can take care of herself. She's been burned by guys before and is afraid to trust Rick. Caro knows he's a published author but not that he wants to write about her missing brother who's been accused of many murders. Rick orginally intended to write about the brother but the more he discovers about him, and how much Caro doesn't want a story, he changes his mind. This really is a love story of two people who have been hurt in the past and are afraid to trust their instant attraction to each other....when they do let down their guard.....this story gets Hot fast.
I did receive a copy of this book to review and I found it to be a very good read with a satisfying ending. Now I want to read about the brother...Enjoy.
I did receive a copy of this book to review and I found it to be a very good read with a satisfying ending. Now I want to read about the brother...Enjoy.
December 11, 2014
RELEASE DATE: April 2014
ABOUT THE BOOK:
He’s on a Quest for Justice
Her Secrets are his Only Hope
When mage investigative reporter Rick Moore gets the unexpected chance to clear his father’s name, it looks like a dream come true. But there’s a price. He must first uncover the truth about the mage world’s most wanted fugitive.
Caroline Dare knows her beloved brother had a reason for killing a member of the mages’ governing council. Real heroes don’t go rogue on a whim. Burned by shady reporters, she pours her devastating worry for him into her fabric art career and maintains stony silence about him. But when her art is panned as a fraud because she’s blind, she’s forced to seek help from Rick, a man she knows only as a sexy arts writer.
Helping beautiful, determined Caroline prove her art is her own gets Rick inside her well tended walls. But as he wins her trust, he finds he’s losing his heart. Now he has a choice--give up his dream or betray the woman he loves.
~~~~
Some background: Mages are a gifted species of people who source their power from the elements. But there is an enemy against their kind, who suck the power and life essence from the mage, known as ghouls. Similar to vampires, the ghouls take down their prey, both mundane and mage, to feed from their blood. Leaving behind a trail of venomous poison in their victim’s blood, those who survive will eventually become ghoul. All magic must be kept hidden from humans and anyone revealing the existence will be punished.
SENTINEL is the first installment in Nancy Northcott’s adult, contemporary Light Mage Wars paranormal romance series-a prequel to her formerly named Protector series. This is mage investigative reporter Rick Moore and blind tapestry artist Caroline Dare’s storyline.
Told from two distinct third person points of view SENTINEL follows Rick Moore as he sets about to investigate the story behind Griffin Dare- a mage who has presumably gone rogue- and the death of his own father for using dark magic. After meeting Griffin’s sister Caro, an up and coming artist whose faith in her brother borders upon worship, Griffin is no longer convinced that the man he is hunting is responsible for the number of deaths and murders for which he has been blamed but Rick’s editor is forcing his hand as it pertains to the investigation. A complication will arise when Rick begins to fall for Griffin’s sister knowing that if she were to know the truth about his investigation, his betrayal would sabotage any hopes of a happily ever after.
The relationship between Rick and Caro is based upon a lie. Rick has been hired to gather any and all information about Griffin Dare and he will use Caro and her family to get what he wants. As the storyline progresses, Rick’s attraction to Caro deepens and he is no longer willing to destroy a family for a newspaper byline. The sex scenes are seductive and intimate.
The world building introduces the magic, the mages, the sentinels and the warriors who are at war with the ghouls and the Collegium. The presiding governing body at the Collegium enforce the rules to which the mage must adhere and in this the Collegium has placed a price on Griffin Dare’s head. We will learn a little more about Rick’s family history –including Rick’s father’s death sentence and the break up of a family.
The secondary characters include Caro’s over protective family as well as Griffin’s best friend Will Davis, whom we met in the Protector series. Will’s connection to Griffin Dare has already been established in the original series so I will not give away any spoilers.
SENTINEL is a quick read that helps to establish some background information about the search for Griffin Dare. There are moments of heartbreak and betrayal for a woman who has spent years trying to defend a brother she no longer knows and for a family whose only son has been accused of the most heinous of crimes. Nancy Northcott blends a contemporary romance with a paranormal edge resulting in an entertaining series for your flights into the fantastic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK:
He’s on a Quest for Justice
Her Secrets are his Only Hope
When mage investigative reporter Rick Moore gets the unexpected chance to clear his father’s name, it looks like a dream come true. But there’s a price. He must first uncover the truth about the mage world’s most wanted fugitive.
Caroline Dare knows her beloved brother had a reason for killing a member of the mages’ governing council. Real heroes don’t go rogue on a whim. Burned by shady reporters, she pours her devastating worry for him into her fabric art career and maintains stony silence about him. But when her art is panned as a fraud because she’s blind, she’s forced to seek help from Rick, a man she knows only as a sexy arts writer.
Helping beautiful, determined Caroline prove her art is her own gets Rick inside her well tended walls. But as he wins her trust, he finds he’s losing his heart. Now he has a choice--give up his dream or betray the woman he loves.
~~~~
Some background: Mages are a gifted species of people who source their power from the elements. But there is an enemy against their kind, who suck the power and life essence from the mage, known as ghouls. Similar to vampires, the ghouls take down their prey, both mundane and mage, to feed from their blood. Leaving behind a trail of venomous poison in their victim’s blood, those who survive will eventually become ghoul. All magic must be kept hidden from humans and anyone revealing the existence will be punished.
SENTINEL is the first installment in Nancy Northcott’s adult, contemporary Light Mage Wars paranormal romance series-a prequel to her formerly named Protector series. This is mage investigative reporter Rick Moore and blind tapestry artist Caroline Dare’s storyline.
Told from two distinct third person points of view SENTINEL follows Rick Moore as he sets about to investigate the story behind Griffin Dare- a mage who has presumably gone rogue- and the death of his own father for using dark magic. After meeting Griffin’s sister Caro, an up and coming artist whose faith in her brother borders upon worship, Griffin is no longer convinced that the man he is hunting is responsible for the number of deaths and murders for which he has been blamed but Rick’s editor is forcing his hand as it pertains to the investigation. A complication will arise when Rick begins to fall for Griffin’s sister knowing that if she were to know the truth about his investigation, his betrayal would sabotage any hopes of a happily ever after.
The relationship between Rick and Caro is based upon a lie. Rick has been hired to gather any and all information about Griffin Dare and he will use Caro and her family to get what he wants. As the storyline progresses, Rick’s attraction to Caro deepens and he is no longer willing to destroy a family for a newspaper byline. The sex scenes are seductive and intimate.
The world building introduces the magic, the mages, the sentinels and the warriors who are at war with the ghouls and the Collegium. The presiding governing body at the Collegium enforce the rules to which the mage must adhere and in this the Collegium has placed a price on Griffin Dare’s head. We will learn a little more about Rick’s family history –including Rick’s father’s death sentence and the break up of a family.
The secondary characters include Caro’s over protective family as well as Griffin’s best friend Will Davis, whom we met in the Protector series. Will’s connection to Griffin Dare has already been established in the original series so I will not give away any spoilers.
SENTINEL is a quick read that helps to establish some background information about the search for Griffin Dare. There are moments of heartbreak and betrayal for a woman who has spent years trying to defend a brother she no longer knows and for a family whose only son has been accused of the most heinous of crimes. Nancy Northcott blends a contemporary romance with a paranormal edge resulting in an entertaining series for your flights into the fantastic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 19, 2014
I received a copy of “Sentinel” from the author in exchange for a review.
Justice: A powerful word. In “Sentinel” this is something both Caroline Dare and Rick Moore are seeking. Caroline, a blind artist, is trying to find justice for her brother, Griffin Dare. Griff was a rising star in the mage community. That is until the day he kills a councilor in front of witnesses. That this action is totally out of character for Griff is ignored. He is convicted ‘in absentia’ and now he has gone to ground.
Rick wants to clear his Father’s name. His Father was found guilty of using Dark Magic when Rick was still a young boy. The disgrace still haunts his family. When Rick is given the chance to have his Father’s case reopened if he agrees to investigate Griffin Dare’s case, he agrees. Logic dictates that someone is helping Dare to remain hidden, because how else is he able to shield himself for so long? All Rick needs is an inside scoop with the Dare family. Working under a two week deadline, Rick decides to go to a showing of Caroline’s work, hoping to strike up a relationship with the young woman. What he expected to find is a woman riding the coat tails of her wealthy and talented parents, using their connections to forward her career. What he doesn’t expect is to find a woman who is talented in her own right. Rick’s first attempts to connect with Caro are gently rebuffed. It isn’t until the next day when the critics begin to question the ability’s of a blind person to see the colors that she has so beautifully woven , that Caro reaches out to Rick and asks for his help as a PR specialist. Rick soon realizes it will not be easy to get Caro to open up to him. Despite their mutual attraction, she isn’t ready to reveal anything about her brother.
It isn’t until Rick saves her life that Rick gets that chance. But by this time, he finds himself falling under the spell of this beautiful woman. Unfortunately, Rick’s boss takes matters into his own hands, and, using information he gained illegally, Stan pens an article under Rick’s name. Caro initially doesn’t believe Rick when he insists he is innocent. It isn’t until Rick approaches Caro’s Father, Stuart Dare, a lawyer, to handle his case, that Caro slowly begins to see the truth in what Rick had been trying to tell her.
Nancy Northcott does a fantastic job with “Sentinel”. It blends wonderfully with her other books.
Justice: A powerful word. In “Sentinel” this is something both Caroline Dare and Rick Moore are seeking. Caroline, a blind artist, is trying to find justice for her brother, Griffin Dare. Griff was a rising star in the mage community. That is until the day he kills a councilor in front of witnesses. That this action is totally out of character for Griff is ignored. He is convicted ‘in absentia’ and now he has gone to ground.
Rick wants to clear his Father’s name. His Father was found guilty of using Dark Magic when Rick was still a young boy. The disgrace still haunts his family. When Rick is given the chance to have his Father’s case reopened if he agrees to investigate Griffin Dare’s case, he agrees. Logic dictates that someone is helping Dare to remain hidden, because how else is he able to shield himself for so long? All Rick needs is an inside scoop with the Dare family. Working under a two week deadline, Rick decides to go to a showing of Caroline’s work, hoping to strike up a relationship with the young woman. What he expected to find is a woman riding the coat tails of her wealthy and talented parents, using their connections to forward her career. What he doesn’t expect is to find a woman who is talented in her own right. Rick’s first attempts to connect with Caro are gently rebuffed. It isn’t until the next day when the critics begin to question the ability’s of a blind person to see the colors that she has so beautifully woven , that Caro reaches out to Rick and asks for his help as a PR specialist. Rick soon realizes it will not be easy to get Caro to open up to him. Despite their mutual attraction, she isn’t ready to reveal anything about her brother.
It isn’t until Rick saves her life that Rick gets that chance. But by this time, he finds himself falling under the spell of this beautiful woman. Unfortunately, Rick’s boss takes matters into his own hands, and, using information he gained illegally, Stan pens an article under Rick’s name. Caro initially doesn’t believe Rick when he insists he is innocent. It isn’t until Rick approaches Caro’s Father, Stuart Dare, a lawyer, to handle his case, that Caro slowly begins to see the truth in what Rick had been trying to tell her.
Nancy Northcott does a fantastic job with “Sentinel”. It blends wonderfully with her other books.
July 21, 2014
First, I have to give a disclaimer. I love this series. Nancy Northcott has created a really neat world where magic lives in a non-magic world. The mages are interesting and their powers are believable. Second, I have really wanted to know Caroline Dare's story. She was only introduced in the other books but I was really intrigued by Griff's family. I wanted to understand how they could stand strong in the face of so much evidence against him. This novella goes a long way to answering my questions. The Dare family is really awesome!
This story starts with Caroline Dare showing her artwork publically for the first time. What makes Caro's choice of career so interesting is that she is blind. Rick Moore is a reporter looking for a story about the Dare family. The two of them have instant chemistry. I was waiting for Caroline to discover that Rick was doing a story about her family. When she did, I felt sad. I found myself caring about these characters and rooting for them to bring down the "bad" guy.
This is a pretty simple story but I couldn't put it down. I don't recommend reading this book as a stand alone. This story really focuses on the two main characters with little glimpses into the mage world. I feel like the story wouldn't have the punch it did for me without reading the other books. I highly recommend reading the whole series.
I recommend this book to anyone who has read the other books in the series. Also, if you enjoy contemporary, paranormal stories, give this series a try. I will definitely continue reading this series.
Quotes:
Mom had never over Dad's disgrace or his subsequent death. If Rick could lift the shadow that had lurked in her eyes for the last eighteen years and eliminate the embarrassment his sister, Jenny, still suffered when anyone made the connection, how could he refuse? page 10
Rick took the call. "I didn't write that story," he said before Jason, too, could offer kudos. page 217
received a copy from the author
This story starts with Caroline Dare showing her artwork publically for the first time. What makes Caro's choice of career so interesting is that she is blind. Rick Moore is a reporter looking for a story about the Dare family. The two of them have instant chemistry. I was waiting for Caroline to discover that Rick was doing a story about her family. When she did, I felt sad. I found myself caring about these characters and rooting for them to bring down the "bad" guy.
This is a pretty simple story but I couldn't put it down. I don't recommend reading this book as a stand alone. This story really focuses on the two main characters with little glimpses into the mage world. I feel like the story wouldn't have the punch it did for me without reading the other books. I highly recommend reading the whole series.
I recommend this book to anyone who has read the other books in the series. Also, if you enjoy contemporary, paranormal stories, give this series a try. I will definitely continue reading this series.
Quotes:
Mom had never over Dad's disgrace or his subsequent death. If Rick could lift the shadow that had lurked in her eyes for the last eighteen years and eliminate the embarrassment his sister, Jenny, still suffered when anyone made the connection, how could he refuse? page 10
Rick took the call. "I didn't write that story," he said before Jason, too, could offer kudos. page 217
received a copy from the author
December 16, 2014
Sentinel: A Light Mage Wars Novella by Nancy Northcott is a seamless story with on sexy mage, a talented artist with a secret and some fantastic chemistry! Rick Moore, a Mage reporter has been desperately trying to find out the truth surrounding his father’s death and refute the accusation that he was involved in dark magic. In order to get the support to uncover his family scandal from the web magazine he works for, he must first find out what happened to one of the most wanted fugitives in the Mage world, artist Caroline Dare’s brother.
Fighting ghouls and an unintended intoxicating attraction only deepens the connection between them. What will Caro do when she discovers the real story he’s after? Will he loose her forever? Rick needs to get the inside scoop on Caro’s brother Griffin Dare, but at the rate Rick’s going that could be lethal.
When Rick’s boss betrays him, in the most unforgiveable way by publishing damaging information with Rick’s name attached to it, everything changes. It now paints Rick as a callous, uncaring and media driven journalist out for blood. Caro is left questioning his feelings and intentions towards her.
Too much is at stake for Caro, with the publication of personal information can she trust Rick? Are they both being set up? Or was he just interested in her for “the story?”
With nothing left to lose, Rick seeks out help from an unexpected source. He must now have faith in the Mage judicial system, and pray that the truth will be exposed.
When I read stories I usually have a pretty good idea of how they will end but this time….whoa!!!! Dear readers you must read this book now! I gasped at the ending! I’m so grateful that no one was home as I screamed a bit loud! Absolutely superb Nancy! Well done! I received this ARC from the author for an honest review and am super excited that I did! I am so happy that I did- it was the perfect book to read on a crisp winter day!
Fighting ghouls and an unintended intoxicating attraction only deepens the connection between them. What will Caro do when she discovers the real story he’s after? Will he loose her forever? Rick needs to get the inside scoop on Caro’s brother Griffin Dare, but at the rate Rick’s going that could be lethal.
When Rick’s boss betrays him, in the most unforgiveable way by publishing damaging information with Rick’s name attached to it, everything changes. It now paints Rick as a callous, uncaring and media driven journalist out for blood. Caro is left questioning his feelings and intentions towards her.
Too much is at stake for Caro, with the publication of personal information can she trust Rick? Are they both being set up? Or was he just interested in her for “the story?”
With nothing left to lose, Rick seeks out help from an unexpected source. He must now have faith in the Mage judicial system, and pray that the truth will be exposed.
When I read stories I usually have a pretty good idea of how they will end but this time….whoa!!!! Dear readers you must read this book now! I gasped at the ending! I’m so grateful that no one was home as I screamed a bit loud! Absolutely superb Nancy! Well done! I received this ARC from the author for an honest review and am super excited that I did! I am so happy that I did- it was the perfect book to read on a crisp winter day!
July 30, 2014
(I received this book for free as part of Goodreads First Reads giveaways).
(This review may contain spoilers).
Although this book was a fairly short one, I still quite enjoyed reading it. I liked the two characters in this book and I felt they were both really well-written.
It was interesting to see Caroline cope with being blind. Although I noticed a couple of slip-ups where descriptions were given I didn't think would work, I felt that the author did a mostly good job with portraying her and the difficulties she faced.
The paranormal aspects worked really well in the book as well. I felt there was a good balance between the plot and romance.
I would have liked to know a bit more about Griff. I couldn't really know much about him as a character, so I didn't really know what he was accused of or what Caroline's feelings towards him really were.
Rick was an interesting, well-rounded character as well. I really liked the progression of his relationship with Caroline. Despite the fact this was a novella, the romance moved at a realistic pace and I found it really well-written and an entertaining read.
I would definitely be interested in reading Griff's story in the future. It would be nice to know more about him as a character.
(This review may contain spoilers).
Although this book was a fairly short one, I still quite enjoyed reading it. I liked the two characters in this book and I felt they were both really well-written.
It was interesting to see Caroline cope with being blind. Although I noticed a couple of slip-ups where descriptions were given I didn't think would work, I felt that the author did a mostly good job with portraying her and the difficulties she faced.
The paranormal aspects worked really well in the book as well. I felt there was a good balance between the plot and romance.
I would have liked to know a bit more about Griff. I couldn't really know much about him as a character, so I didn't really know what he was accused of or what Caroline's feelings towards him really were.
Rick was an interesting, well-rounded character as well. I really liked the progression of his relationship with Caroline. Despite the fact this was a novella, the romance moved at a realistic pace and I found it really well-written and an entertaining read.
I would definitely be interested in reading Griff's story in the future. It would be nice to know more about him as a character.
May 13, 2014
Fantastic, Emotional Story.
I love this series overall, and this is a great setup for the world and the rest of the stories.
This is SUCH a nice change from vamps and weres. While those are okay, I don't seek them out because I'm just bored. The paranormal elements in this story are different and interesting, and like nothing I've seen done before, and I don't get that with many paranormal reads. Ms. Northcott writes deeply emotional stories, with characters who've been through a lot of pain, so when they're redeemed--when they rise above their pasts in the end-- it's all the more powerful.
As a prequel to the rest of the series, this is good read at any point--but if you haven't read the other books, it's a perfect start. This is a long novella, but this is not light or fluffy. Even in this shorter book, Ms. Northcott gives the reader a fully developed, strong story.
I fell in love with Rick and Caro. If you like real, emotional people, strong, sexy heroes, and awesome paranormal fantasy elements, I bet you will too.
I love this series overall, and this is a great setup for the world and the rest of the stories.
This is SUCH a nice change from vamps and weres. While those are okay, I don't seek them out because I'm just bored. The paranormal elements in this story are different and interesting, and like nothing I've seen done before, and I don't get that with many paranormal reads. Ms. Northcott writes deeply emotional stories, with characters who've been through a lot of pain, so when they're redeemed--when they rise above their pasts in the end-- it's all the more powerful.
As a prequel to the rest of the series, this is good read at any point--but if you haven't read the other books, it's a perfect start. This is a long novella, but this is not light or fluffy. Even in this shorter book, Ms. Northcott gives the reader a fully developed, strong story.
I fell in love with Rick and Caro. If you like real, emotional people, strong, sexy heroes, and awesome paranormal fantasy elements, I bet you will too.
May 15, 2014
Dragon*Con pal, Nancy Northcott, offers a 4th paranormal romance in her Light Mage Wars series set in modern day Georgia, USA. It's skillfully written and great entertainment for aficionados of the hot romance genre. I like Northcott's strong women; Sentinel's heroine is a blind fabric artist who can magically sense colors with her fingertips, and, btw, knows how to fight evil ghouls. This tale occurs 3 years before Renegade, the first novel in the series.
April 11, 2014
I received a free copy for an honest review
I was drawn to this series because it was set in Georgia - my home state.
This is prequel - .5 of series. Magic exists hidden from humans.
Looking forward to MORE of this series.
I was drawn to this series because it was set in Georgia - my home state.
This is prequel - .5 of series. Magic exists hidden from humans.
Looking forward to MORE of this series.
July 10, 2014
A fast read that delves into the worlds of magic and love. What are people willing ro give up for love? Read and find out.
December 28, 2022
This book may be short, but it is a great story. Caro hasn't had an easy life. She may be from a well to do family, but her brother has been accused of murder and is on the run. Rick is an author and a reporter. He's still trying to find justice for his father. Both of them have trust issues.
Nancy does a great job developing the characters in such a short book. I became invested in the characters in a very short time. I'm kicking myself for not having the second book ready to go when I read the last paragraph of the book.
Nancy does a great job developing the characters in such a short book. I became invested in the characters in a very short time. I'm kicking myself for not having the second book ready to go when I read the last paragraph of the book.
February 1, 2017
Strong focused leading characters. Protective supporting characters. Mix in logic, fears, sadness, loyalty, passion and love and what do you get? An awesome book that you wake up in the middle of the night to finish because you can't wait until a decent hour in the morning to see what happens next. I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!
September 26, 2024
I was so sad it took me so long to dive into this series. I was immediately hooked by Caro and Rick’s story. Caro gives a unique perspective to the reader as she is blind, but she has had a lot of advantages in life due to social status of her family and her magic abilities. She has previously had terrible luck with relationships and is wary of anyone in journalism due to her condemned-to-death brother. Rick has a motive to try and get close to her, but finds he really wants to get to know her and isn’t willing to use her for a story. However, it is never possible to keep intentions completely secret especially when you desperately want them to remain so, and Caro and Rick will have to see if love is in the cards for them!
October 1, 2022
I really enjoyed this story of Rick and Caro (Caroline). Caro is an artist that Rick meets while working for the Georgia Art Monthly. Caro is very reserved around reporters since the scandal with her brother Dare. Rick does a lot of work to break down Cara’s walls and get to know her. Rick is also one of the few people that doesn’t quite believe all the bad stories about her brother. The problem is: Rick has been tasked with getting to the bottom of Dare’s disappearance in order to get information to clear his father’s name. I loved the story building and look forward to the next book.
January 25, 2025
Book 1 in the Light Mage Wars
Enjoyed the story. Thrilling and romantic story.
Heroine is a Mageborn blind artist whose brother has disappeared and accused of murder.
Hero trying to clear his fathers name.
Mages and Ghouls along with family scandals
Looking forward to continuing the series to see what happens
Enjoyed the story. Thrilling and romantic story.
Heroine is a Mageborn blind artist whose brother has disappeared and accused of murder.
Hero trying to clear his fathers name.
Mages and Ghouls along with family scandals
Looking forward to continuing the series to see what happens
February 10, 2022
Fascinating start to a new world. Magic is explained as talents each mage has, though that may end up being a simplification as the series continues. I liked how Caro's blindness is handled. Her talents may make it easier for her to adapt and get around, but in no way solve all her problems. She's worked hard to be as independent as she is. I liked that Rick recognized and appreciated that in her. They both had cool backstories and worked well together.
As for the action/adventure/suspense side of the storyline, we get an introduction to the mage hierarchy, their politics and social structure, and their main villain - ghouls. Scandals of the past play a huge part in Caro and Rick's romance, but there isn't much in the way of current battles because they are mainly on the sidelines. I'm expecting that to change in the first full length novel where the main POV character is in the midst of the action.
As for the action/adventure/suspense side of the storyline, we get an introduction to the mage hierarchy, their politics and social structure, and their main villain - ghouls. Scandals of the past play a huge part in Caro and Rick's romance, but there isn't much in the way of current battles because they are mainly on the sidelines. I'm expecting that to change in the first full length novel where the main POV character is in the midst of the action.
May 31, 2024
This book is nothing like I thought it would be. Once I gave up my preconceived notions I really enjoyed it. Caroline is a blind weaver. Although she is from a wealthy, connected family she is working hard to be independent. Her family has been rocked by scandal which has caused her to be distrustful of outsiders. Rick is a reporter/writer whose who is no stranger to family scandal. In fact, he is hoping to expose Caroline’s family’s story as a means to clear his father’s name. Mage Sentinel is a story about trust and betrayal. Both Caroline and Rick are strong, likeable characters and you will definitely root for their HEA. My only issue with the book is that the paranormal aspects took a back seat to the romance. I would like to see more world building with information about the ghouls and mage politics. Despite this, the book is a great read and I recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal romance.
July 9, 2017
Decent paranormal romance; novella that is obviously setting up for 1st book in series. One part that felt somewhat random (hero and heroine are attacked by ghouls), but otherwise decent. I would be interested in story of heroine's brother, but probably not enough to seek it out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2022
I read Renegade Mage before this book and it showed the effect that it had on his family and friends with Griffin Dare being accused of murder.
Caroline/Caro is phenomenal artistic mage that is able to create brilliant works of art even with her limited sight. Her brother one of her biggest champions is in hiding after being accused of murder and it has caused her and her family to close themselves off from outsiders.
Rick is an author who freelances as a part-time reporter was at Caroline’s first art show and was blown away not just at the art but to the woman herself. Like Caroline he has secrets and one is to clear the name of his father.
The secrets they are both harboring could shatter their newly found passion. When betrayal comes from an unlike place their fragile trust is broken and it takes a bit to mend and head to their HEA.
Caro comes from a world of privilege but she has fought very hard to create and be seen for herself and not what her family has to offer. Rick’s background is more bare bones and his time of lack has colored how he approaches some things in his life. While different classes they both want to be seen as having made their own way.
The relationship unfolded organically and their desires built over time. They both helped each other blossom and together they wove a beautiful tapestry.
I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Caroline/Caro is phenomenal artistic mage that is able to create brilliant works of art even with her limited sight. Her brother one of her biggest champions is in hiding after being accused of murder and it has caused her and her family to close themselves off from outsiders.
Rick is an author who freelances as a part-time reporter was at Caroline’s first art show and was blown away not just at the art but to the woman herself. Like Caroline he has secrets and one is to clear the name of his father.
The secrets they are both harboring could shatter their newly found passion. When betrayal comes from an unlike place their fragile trust is broken and it takes a bit to mend and head to their HEA.
Caro comes from a world of privilege but she has fought very hard to create and be seen for herself and not what her family has to offer. Rick’s background is more bare bones and his time of lack has colored how he approaches some things in his life. While different classes they both want to be seen as having made their own way.
The relationship unfolded organically and their desires built over time. They both helped each other blossom and together they wove a beautiful tapestry.
I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
February 19, 2024
This book is nothing like I thought it would be. Once I gave up my preconceived notions I really enjoyed it. Caroline is a blind weaver. Although she is from a wealthy, connected family she is working hard to be independent. Her family has been rocked by scandal which has caused her to be distrustful of outsiders. Rick is a reporter/writer whose who is no stranger to family scandal. In fact, he is hoping to expose Caroline’s family’s story as a means to clear his father’s name. Mage Sentinel is a story about trust and betrayal. Both Caroline and Rick are strong, likeable characters and you will definitely root for their HEA. My only issue with the book is that the paranormal aspects took a back seat to the romance. I would like to see more world building with information about the ghouls and mage politics. Despite this, the book is a great read and I recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal romance.
February 3, 2016
A novella with depth, plot and character
I loved this novella for several reasons, most notably for her handling of a blind yet gifted heroine. She is understandably vulnerable, but also able to kick ghoul butt when necessary. Love it. I also enjoyed that the author incorporated a full plot and a nice introduction to her Mage and mundane world in the scope of a novella. Well worth a read
I loved this novella for several reasons, most notably for her handling of a blind yet gifted heroine. She is understandably vulnerable, but also able to kick ghoul butt when necessary. Love it. I also enjoyed that the author incorporated a full plot and a nice introduction to her Mage and mundane world in the scope of a novella. Well worth a read
April 13, 2022
Great start for a series about the secret magic users who live among us. The heroine is a blind fiber artist and magic user, the hero a journalist while could use her to get the story of a lifetime about her disgraced (And missing) mage brother. Steamy romance, accurate and positive depiction of living without sight, and action scenes that keep you turning the pages! Definitely will read the next in this promising series.
September 30, 2022
I really didn't know what to expect but I found this book hard to put down. I just wanted to know if Rick and Caroline found their hea? Did they find Caroline's fugitive brother? What's going on between the Mage's and the Ghouls (very creepy btw? And that ending! I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
February 8, 2015
I really enjoyed this novella from Nancy Northcutt, interesting characters, in a world so like our own but with magic. I enjoyed the author's style, and will look for the rest of the books in this series.
October 8, 2022
This is an entertaining PNR with defined MCs. The H needs a story to prove his Dad's innocence, and the untrusting h wants the same for her maligned brother. There is drama, betrayal, romance, love, and a possible HEA. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews