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Highland Magic #4
Last Wish: Highland Magic Series, Book 4
It's not easy pretending to be dead - especially when it feels as if you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Between an unfulfilled prophecy, the demon-occupied Lowlands, the continuing power of murderous Aifric Moncrieffe - not to mention her constant yearnings for Byron - Integrity Adair has a lot to worry about.
Still, how hard can it really be to save Scotland, maintain her morals, get the guy, and keep her sense of humor?
Still, how hard can it really be to save Scotland, maintain her morals, get the guy, and keep her sense of humor?
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First published December 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 357 reviews
June 14, 2024
Surely there is a novella after this right? You can't end a book, nay a series mid sentence like that! Lol. So much happens in this book. So many loose ends to tie and plot points to see through. I like how the gang of thieves use their skills to the very end! This was a fun series that I'm glad I found. The authors other works are definitely now on my radar!
October 1, 2018
Such a wonderful end to a wonderful series.
I really enjoyed this one. I liked Integrity and I didn't expect to like her as much. Integrity is a pacifist, a "turn the other cheek" kind of girl, usually I find heroines like that tedious but she made it work, a bit unrealistically because people don't stop wanting to kill you just because you are nice but I liked her.
The secondary characters were amazing and I even liked the corny jokes. I am getting sold on this author, can't wait to read more of her books.
I really enjoyed this one. I liked Integrity and I didn't expect to like her as much. Integrity is a pacifist, a "turn the other cheek" kind of girl, usually I find heroines like that tedious but she made it work, a bit unrealistically because people don't stop wanting to kill you just because you are nice but I liked her.
The secondary characters were amazing and I even liked the corny jokes. I am getting sold on this author, can't wait to read more of her books.
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July 25, 2017
||I am emotionally invested, and let me tell you that I was not happy with that end, at first.||
SPOILERS AHEAD : you have been warned.
I wondered what the title was about, i thought it was that Integrity would die to have peace between the Famori and the Sihde. Naive, I know. Dumb, too. Then I realised that Grity still had one wish left in her Smitar.
I was NOT happy when my protegée Integrity had her stolen powers stolen, then I got over it.
I have still not gotten over the fact that Grity is a fucking pacifist. I'm not against because, hello, it's actually good and doesn't hurt anybody (see what I did there?) But i was ticked off when there was no one on one action in the whole series.
Then again, how often is a pacifist the main character in a series?
You must read these books because
1. Highlanders
2.Magic & Bob & Geenies
3.Byron & Jamie
4.(surprisingly) action
SPOILERS AHEAD : you have been warned.
I wondered what the title was about, i thought it was that Integrity would die to have peace between the Famori and the Sihde. Naive, I know. Dumb, too. Then I realised that Grity still had one wish left in her Smitar.
I was NOT happy when my protegée Integrity had her stolen powers stolen, then I got over it.
I have still not gotten over the fact that Grity is a fucking pacifist. I'm not against because, hello, it's actually good and doesn't hurt anybody (see what I did there?) But i was ticked off when there was no one on one action in the whole series.
Then again, how often is a pacifist the main character in a series?
You must read these books because
1. Highlanders
2.Magic & Bob & Geenies
3.Byron & Jamie
4.(surprisingly) action
December 2, 2016
Review originally posted on The Book Adventures of Annelise Lestrange :)
I received this copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Let's go :D
The Story
When Integrity Aidar decided to play dead for the sake of her master plan to bring down her sworn enemy, Aifric Moncrieffe, no one told her the deed would be so. Annoying. Do you know how hard it is to run a reform without being able to be seen by pretty much anyone outside your clan? Integrity can tell you: a pain in the ass.
And let’s not forget the damn prophecy that dictates she’ll save the world. Or the fact that her crush, Byron, seems to be already arranging a weeding despite just watching Integrity ‘die’. Talk about a turn off in the relationship.
Among so many uncertainties and pressure, there is only one thing Integrity knows for sure: she is so screwed.
The Analysis
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
If I had to define Last Wish with just one word, it would be: OMGTHATWASSOAWESOMEWHYDIDITHADTOEND?! #cheating #sorrynotsorry Alright, let’s be serious for a moment: this was a stunning and breath-taking end to one of the most kickass series that I had the pleasure of reading in a looong time! Integrity Aidar will forever be one of my all-time favorite female protagonists and I can’t even start on how much I’ll miss her REALLY BAD jokes and her passion for hot pink. I’m in denial, don’t try to make me feel better.
The book didn’t get 5 full stars, however, because I felt Harper lost a little her touch with the lightness of the book. So far, in all three books, no matter how bad things got – there were always moments of fun and laughter here and there, because that’s who Integrity is: she always cheers up the people she loves. I missed seeing this on Last Wish and I was a little disappointed with that thing that happened right before the happy ending and that I never quite saw Integrity’s face after that other deal in the end, so… Four wonderful and brilliant stars to close off one of my favorite series!
The narrative follows once more our darling Integrity Aidar, first person styled. While I will love Integrity forever, I must say this book dragged a little on some parts, as Integrity is too shaken to cheer herself up – imagine cheering her friends. Her peace and love mood is seriously breaking and she wants to remain true to her beliefs no matter what, so she turns into someone quieter and jaded. Still awesome and kickass, but less funny and flirty, and her chance reflects deeply into the story pace – still quick and delightful, but heavy.
As I already sort of started talking about characters here, I’ll just jump to it and then we talk plot, okay? #rebel Many people surprised me on Last Wish, but no one more than Bob, the little genie. I knew he was friends with Integrity, but only on this book we really understand how true and faithful he is and I can’t lie, it got me tearing up a bit. Of course there’s also betrayers and too many innocent deaths for my tastes, but nothing felt “too much”. Harper makes her reader understand on their hearts why those people were gone, in a way or other, and eventually, we accept it. Just like Integrity. That’s how much of a connection we form with her <3
Regarding the plot, well, that’s where one star was truly lost. I was highly unimpressed with two points in the story. I can’t go on a full ranting mode because it would be too much of a spoiler, but the first case, right before the end, wasn’t consistent with Integrity’s personality. She is a pacifist, but she is also an opportunist in the best way, but she didn’t try to retrieve some things that someone stole from her – and she could have, as the person dies right after. Let’s just say she allowed the person to die thinking they had won and it was so not Integrity! First, because she would do all in her power to prevent the death and second, she would never allow anyone to think they had the upper hand if she doesn’t need to.
The second point was the end itself. I don’t deal well with open ends for closing books and standalones, so I was highly bothered that I didn’t even get to see Integrity’s full reaction to the last happening of the book. I’m one of those crazy old ladies that need closure in life, you know? I know many people love wide open endings, but I’m not one of them >.< Sorry!!
Now that my ranting moment is over, back to the plot! OMG, THE TWISTS! I love books that can mix predictable twists with face-slap twists! You think you got it all figured out and BAM, Harper pulls your metaphorical carpet and laughs to your face. Boy, I love this woman <3
Also, this was one of those rare cases in which I read and could connect the book to a song! Of course it’s Beth’s fault, as we won’t shut up about music together, but still! Every time I came across scenes of Integrity and Byron and their so-not-everyday love, Tremors, from Angels & Airwaves, started to play on my head, haha!
Hmm, now that I think of music (Beth, this is sooo on you!), I think that is safe to say that Integrity’s theme song is How To Be a Heartbreaker, from Marina & The Diamonds. Like, through the whole series, haha! She doesn’t get around in any way, but she plays Byron to such levels!
Alright, so let’s get going. Can I just call your attention to the BEAUTIFUL cover? <3 I think the only cover I didn’t love in the series was for book number 2 – Integrity’s eyes got a little weird. My favorite, for sure, it’s book’s three cover – those orange shades made such a nice contrast with Integrity <3
To wrap this up (I SWEAR!), I’ve got a handful of quotes to convince you why you need to read the Highland Magic series <3
And those winning dialogues:
Everybody is properly wooed to read the Highland Magic series now and, if you aren’t still convinced, Ican throw the book in your face tell you that, if you like Urban Fantasy, Kickass females, adventure and an emotional ride full of gorgeous men and lovely sidekicks, YOU WILL LOVE IT!
AND WE ARE DONE! Omg, I can’t believe you made it all the way here! Thanks so much for reading, hope you enjoyed the review and that we can fangirl about Integrity together someday =D Also, thank you again to Helen Harper for all my copies from this series ❤ You made my life unbeliaveable more happy!!!
I received this copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Let's go :D
The Story
When Integrity Aidar decided to play dead for the sake of her master plan to bring down her sworn enemy, Aifric Moncrieffe, no one told her the deed would be so. Annoying. Do you know how hard it is to run a reform without being able to be seen by pretty much anyone outside your clan? Integrity can tell you: a pain in the ass.
And let’s not forget the damn prophecy that dictates she’ll save the world. Or the fact that her crush, Byron, seems to be already arranging a weeding despite just watching Integrity ‘die’. Talk about a turn off in the relationship.
Among so many uncertainties and pressure, there is only one thing Integrity knows for sure: she is so screwed.
The Analysis
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
If I had to define Last Wish with just one word, it would be: OMGTHATWASSOAWESOMEWHYDIDITHADTOEND?! #cheating #sorrynotsorry Alright, let’s be serious for a moment: this was a stunning and breath-taking end to one of the most kickass series that I had the pleasure of reading in a looong time! Integrity Aidar will forever be one of my all-time favorite female protagonists and I can’t even start on how much I’ll miss her REALLY BAD jokes and her passion for hot pink. I’m in denial, don’t try to make me feel better.
The book didn’t get 5 full stars, however, because I felt Harper lost a little her touch with the lightness of the book. So far, in all three books, no matter how bad things got – there were always moments of fun and laughter here and there, because that’s who Integrity is: she always cheers up the people she loves. I missed seeing this on Last Wish and I was a little disappointed with that thing that happened right before the happy ending and that I never quite saw Integrity’s face after that other deal in the end, so… Four wonderful and brilliant stars to close off one of my favorite series!
The narrative follows once more our darling Integrity Aidar, first person styled. While I will love Integrity forever, I must say this book dragged a little on some parts, as Integrity is too shaken to cheer herself up – imagine cheering her friends. Her peace and love mood is seriously breaking and she wants to remain true to her beliefs no matter what, so she turns into someone quieter and jaded. Still awesome and kickass, but less funny and flirty, and her chance reflects deeply into the story pace – still quick and delightful, but heavy.
As I already sort of started talking about characters here, I’ll just jump to it and then we talk plot, okay? #rebel Many people surprised me on Last Wish, but no one more than Bob, the little genie. I knew he was friends with Integrity, but only on this book we really understand how true and faithful he is and I can’t lie, it got me tearing up a bit. Of course there’s also betrayers and too many innocent deaths for my tastes, but nothing felt “too much”. Harper makes her reader understand on their hearts why those people were gone, in a way or other, and eventually, we accept it. Just like Integrity. That’s how much of a connection we form with her <3
Regarding the plot, well, that’s where one star was truly lost. I was highly unimpressed with two points in the story. I can’t go on a full ranting mode because it would be too much of a spoiler, but the first case, right before the end, wasn’t consistent with Integrity’s personality. She is a pacifist, but she is also an opportunist in the best way, but she didn’t try to retrieve some things that someone stole from her – and she could have, as the person dies right after. Let’s just say she allowed the person to die thinking they had won and it was so not Integrity! First, because she would do all in her power to prevent the death and second, she would never allow anyone to think they had the upper hand if she doesn’t need to.
The second point was the end itself. I don’t deal well with open ends for closing books and standalones, so I was highly bothered that I didn’t even get to see Integrity’s full reaction to the last happening of the book. I’m one of those crazy old ladies that need closure in life, you know? I know many people love wide open endings, but I’m not one of them >.< Sorry!!
Now that my ranting moment is over, back to the plot! OMG, THE TWISTS! I love books that can mix predictable twists with face-slap twists! You think you got it all figured out and BAM, Harper pulls your metaphorical carpet and laughs to your face. Boy, I love this woman <3
Also, this was one of those rare cases in which I read and could connect the book to a song! Of course it’s Beth’s fault, as we won’t shut up about music together, but still! Every time I came across scenes of Integrity and Byron and their so-not-everyday love, Tremors, from Angels & Airwaves, started to play on my head, haha!
Hmm, now that I think of music (Beth, this is sooo on you!), I think that is safe to say that Integrity’s theme song is How To Be a Heartbreaker, from Marina & The Diamonds. Like, through the whole series, haha! She doesn’t get around in any way, but she plays Byron to such levels!
Alright, so let’s get going. Can I just call your attention to the BEAUTIFUL cover? <3 I think the only cover I didn’t love in the series was for book number 2 – Integrity’s eyes got a little weird. My favorite, for sure, it’s book’s three cover – those orange shades made such a nice contrast with Integrity <3
To wrap this up (I SWEAR!), I’ve got a handful of quotes to convince you why you need to read the Highland Magic series <3
“(…) rationality has no place when it comes to affairs of the heart;” – Integrity’s thoughts
“I rather liked the idea of being Hercule Poirot; maybe I could invest in a moustache to twirl at appropriate moments. Hot pink, of course” – Integrity’s thoughts
“Revenge isn’t psychotic, Uh Integrity, it’s noble. This world has been built on the pillars of revenge.” – Bob
“Love isn’t about possession.” – Integrity’s thoughts
And those winning dialogues:
Morna: Does the Scrymgeour lass know that she’s screeching at the source of all magic?
Integrity: Oh yes. She has no qualms about who she yells at.
Taylor: How often do the good guys win?
Integrity: Sometimes it might take them a while but they always win in the end.
Taylor: How do you know?
Integrity: George Lucas.
Everybody is properly wooed to read the Highland Magic series now and, if you aren’t still convinced, I
AND WE ARE DONE! Omg, I can’t believe you made it all the way here! Thanks so much for reading, hope you enjoyed the review and that we can fangirl about Integrity together someday =D Also, thank you again to Helen Harper for all my copies from this series ❤ You made my life unbeliaveable more happy!!!
April 28, 2017
Thank you Sharon J for recommending this book series to me. This was a fantastic read. The story was engaging, and the action was awesome. The characters were amazing. Integrity was bad-ass and weird as always. Byron was amazing and sweet. I really hate Aifric. He was a piece of work. I hated him and the way he ruled. Bob was funny, so was Speck. Jamie was sweet, and the other characters were also fantastic. The ending of the book and series was really good. I am sad that the series is over. I hope Helen Harper makes another fun, action-packed series. Overall, an amazing read.
February 19, 2019
All's well that ends well.
Not the best I've read from Helen Harper but meh. *shrugs*
Actually, a lot of things didn't work for me.
->Byron sucked as a hero.
->Bob was way wayy too annoying.
->Byron sucked.
->The series should have been a trilogy.
->Byron sucked.
->Needless/draggy plot at times.
->Byron sucked.
->Integrity came off indecisive and wishy-washy.
->Byron sucked.
->Lack of closure/epilogue.
.
.
.
.
.
Oh! And, before I forget, Byron sucked!
It definitely wasn't a bad series but I probably won't recommend it either. If you wanna try Helen's work I'd steer you more in the direction of The Blood Destiny Series and The Lazy Girl's Guide to Magic trio.
I will say that somehow Integrity being a pacifist worked without her turning into a total tstl super blonde(I realize she's grey) with a no-fighting, eww-blood-gross, woe-is-me attitude. But also, I absolutely abhor that last "steal". I demand justice for Morna!
Justice for Morna!
Justice for Morna!
February 17, 2019
Man that ending sucked!! I wanted to participate in that moment, I also wanted a glance at the future. Ugh. Come on.
This is a decent book, and quite a bit happens. Lots and lots happens and it’s amazing Integrity is still alive. She should have like died 100x by then. But this is the conclusion of the series.
I still loved it just wished Aifrics or whatever comeuppance was a little better. Still I enjoyed the book and the series since I breezed through it. Series was still fun and frustrating.
This is a decent book, and quite a bit happens. Lots and lots happens and it’s amazing Integrity is still alive. She should have like died 100x by then. But this is the conclusion of the series.
I still loved it just wished Aifrics or whatever comeuppance was a little better. Still I enjoyed the book and the series since I breezed through it. Series was still fun and frustrating.
June 10, 2018
Nice ending to a lovely series. I will miss spending time in that world.
This was the second series by this author I read / listened to, and I am very much on board with her kind of heroine.
And the humor ;-)
This was the second series by this author I read / listened to, and I am very much on board with her kind of heroine.
And the humor ;-)
June 10, 2018
This is for the series as a whole. I really loved Integrity, she was the only pacifist heroine I have ever read about and it worked for me.
I was very non-enthusiastic about Byron, I never liked him and I really wanted her to get someone else for a hero. However, Byron is a minor quibble overall, cause the romance is pretty secondary in these books.
The worldbuilding was great, the solutions to the big obstacles were well done and I had a great time with this series. Except for Byron, hence the three stars, cause he was just not up to the strength of Integrity and really not my cuppa.
I was very non-enthusiastic about Byron, I never liked him and I really wanted her to get someone else for a hero. However, Byron is a minor quibble overall, cause the romance is pretty secondary in these books.
The worldbuilding was great, the solutions to the big obstacles were well done and I had a great time with this series. Except for Byron, hence the three stars, cause he was just not up to the strength of Integrity and really not my cuppa.
August 11, 2022
While this series had it’s slight ups and downs, the final installment is everything one hopes and wishes for! It is exciting and hard to put down, it has twists and turns one can never predict, AND each and every thread is wrapped up in either a satisfactory or a sigh-worthy way. I closed the book happy, with a huge smile on my face!
May 9, 2020
Integrity Adair is having a hard time pretending to be dead. Not only are things with Byron more complicated, but she must figure out what her enemy is trying to do before it is too late. But, as plots come to light things may not be as easy as she originally thought they would be.
This book was a great ending to this series. I really enjoyed Integrity in this one, and I loved how she reacted to Byron and how he reacted to her. Those two were perfect together, and I was so glad how it ended. Now, I did feel like this one was sort of lacking in the fighting department, but it still ended up really well!
This book was a great ending to this series. I really enjoyed Integrity in this one, and I loved how she reacted to Byron and how he reacted to her. Those two were perfect together, and I was so glad how it ended. Now, I did feel like this one was sort of lacking in the fighting department, but it still ended up really well!
March 18, 2017
After playing dead in order to stop the Demons and Aifric Moncrieffe from tying to kill her. Integrity being who she is could not help but come out of hiding in order to bring down her arch nemesis Aifric Moncrieffe. Integrity Aidar is one of my favorite female protagonists. This like the other 4 books is just such a fun light read with a kickass heroin who does not get all soppy the moment she looks at a handsome guy. She would be more likely to knock him flat and walk over him so she can get on with what she was doing.
December 9, 2016
Last Wish
Excellent series, you can't help but like Integrity and her family. Byron is lovely. Aifric was not. Bob is hilarious. Taylor is love. Speck is funny. Jamie is sweet. Read the books, trust me. This is my second series authored by Helen Harper. Happy reading!
Excellent series, you can't help but like Integrity and her family. Byron is lovely. Aifric was not. Bob is hilarious. Taylor is love. Speck is funny. Jamie is sweet. Read the books, trust me. This is my second series authored by Helen Harper. Happy reading!
May 28, 2023
oh come on Miss Harper at least give us an epilogue!!
June 28, 2024
I read all four books in about the space of two days -- on audio. The narrator was great and the storyline is really interesting. The 4 books is one entire storyline and even though I had issues with the story overall, the pacing and some characters, it was interesting enough and had enough high points to keep me invested... and yet I'd overall rate this a very low three stars.
The series is set in our present world but with a few differences. There are supernatural beings (Sidhe, warlocks, pixies..). Basically since it is set in Scotland a lot of Scottish supernatural lore is used. There is also some long ago past event that resulted in a race of demons known as the Famori to come to the Highlands and war with the Sidhe and who are now in sole possession of the lowlands and the only thing that separates them is a magical veil.
In this one, our main character is Integrity Taylor (Adair). She is of the Sidhe race who in this book are the top of the magical pyramid. They are rich, they have clans and a lot of magic. But before Integrity is an outcast because her father, apparently, massacred his entire clan. It was an act so verboten that the Adair lands were salted and her family's name is reviled and there are those who are attempting to slowly being excise it Tigana style from memory.
When Integrity was a child she was put into the guardianship of a Sidhe family who ignored her at best (they never even gave her a name) and abused her at worst. At ten she finally ran away and ended up the ward of a master thief with a gambling problem.
It is that gambling problem of her adoptive father that puts Integrity back onto the radar of the powerful Sidhe clans who've been content to let her go her own way. But the magic in the land is failing and it requires all the chieftains of the existing Sidhe clans to go and exercise a specific ritual to cleanse it. Since she is the last living Adair, she is the chieftain of the Adairs.
From there over the next series of books, Integrity learns that all in the milk ain't white when it comes to what happened with her clan. What is this prophecy everyone talks about that involves her specifically. What does it mean for the Demons? Who is trying to kill her? Integrity becomes determined to learn about her family, get back her lands and restore her legacy, thwart her swron enemy and maybe find love.
What I liked:
I actually liked Integrity she was irreverent, fun and a pretty good thief and sometimes grifter.
The found family aspect. Integrity , Taylor (her adoptive father), and their merry band of thieves that consisted of a pixie, a merman, and a warlock.
Related to the found family, Integrity had a way of simply collecting people who gravitated toward her so for someone who began so outcast, by the time the last book came around she had a veritable army of ride or dies behind her.
Bob the Genie. Probably the best character in the whole book!
The climactic scene. For all that I had some major issues with parts of the characterizations and writing, the climatic showdown was well done. Honestly it was the best part of this final book.
What I didn't like:
The tonal inconsistency. At first I thought this was going to be a lighthearted romp, there was a very high humor quotient and Bob the Genie had some great lines. But as the story went on, and the themes got more serious and the stakes go higher, the corny jokes and the lightheartedness felt rather belabored.
The writing for Integrity. As much as I did like her, I realized she is not they type of heroine I'd want to have very often, especially given her set of circumstances. Integrity is an avowed pacifist and, I gotta hand it to the author, she stuck to her guns with that. The problem is, Integrity was always in so much peril and people were always trying to kill her. She obviously had hero plot armor so of course her pacifist stance works and actually is an advantage in the story and turns out to be pivotal in the resolution. But as I was reading I had a hard time seeing Integrity willing to lend the people who hate her or who abuse her understanding. And outside of that, she would go haring off to dangerous places all by herself. It is only her hero plot armor that saves her and that makes for unsatisfactory reading tbh. And while I like a funny, snarky, heroine with a bent sense of humor (See Ivy from this author's Slouch Witch series). I'd much rather have one who will cut a bitch too.
Integrity's first person POV. I think this is a lot of my issue. So much of what we know we learn as Integrity learns, but she seems to learn at the last minute when she necessarily needs to know stuff. I would have liked to know about the Demons. How they got there? What exactly is the use of the veil since it seems like Integrity can go into the lowlands where the Demons are and cross the veil like she is simply parting a curtain.
Byron. Again, I think he was a casualty of the first person POV. Everything coming through Integrity. As such we are in her head a lot as she moons over him, but he is really rather underwritten. At times he is downright awful other times he is just meh.
The romance. See: Byron above.
The pacing. The first and second book were good. The first book was a good intro and laid foundation. the Second book had a great central plot of the Sidhe games. But the third book felt like filler and the first 60% of the final book was a slog. Too much navel gazing and honestly Integrity being hyper focused on the wrong thing.
The villain. A mustache twirler.
The ending. Too Abrupt. All of that. Seriously world changing stuff and it just ends. No epilogue, not aftermath, just 'bye."
So yeah, It was an ok listen and it passed the time. But the author did not stick the landing. And it hovers over the whole series.
But it was an easy, engaging listen and the narrator of he audiobooks was excellent
The series is set in our present world but with a few differences. There are supernatural beings (Sidhe, warlocks, pixies..). Basically since it is set in Scotland a lot of Scottish supernatural lore is used. There is also some long ago past event that resulted in a race of demons known as the Famori to come to the Highlands and war with the Sidhe and who are now in sole possession of the lowlands and the only thing that separates them is a magical veil.
In this one, our main character is Integrity Taylor (Adair). She is of the Sidhe race who in this book are the top of the magical pyramid. They are rich, they have clans and a lot of magic. But before Integrity is an outcast because her father, apparently, massacred his entire clan. It was an act so verboten that the Adair lands were salted and her family's name is reviled and there are those who are attempting to slowly being excise it Tigana style from memory.
When Integrity was a child she was put into the guardianship of a Sidhe family who ignored her at best (they never even gave her a name) and abused her at worst. At ten she finally ran away and ended up the ward of a master thief with a gambling problem.
It is that gambling problem of her adoptive father that puts Integrity back onto the radar of the powerful Sidhe clans who've been content to let her go her own way. But the magic in the land is failing and it requires all the chieftains of the existing Sidhe clans to go and exercise a specific ritual to cleanse it. Since she is the last living Adair, she is the chieftain of the Adairs.
From there over the next series of books, Integrity learns that all in the milk ain't white when it comes to what happened with her clan. What is this prophecy everyone talks about that involves her specifically. What does it mean for the Demons? Who is trying to kill her? Integrity becomes determined to learn about her family, get back her lands and restore her legacy, thwart her swron enemy and maybe find love.
What I liked:
I actually liked Integrity she was irreverent, fun and a pretty good thief and sometimes grifter.
The found family aspect. Integrity , Taylor (her adoptive father), and their merry band of thieves that consisted of a pixie, a merman, and a warlock.
Related to the found family, Integrity had a way of simply collecting people who gravitated toward her so for someone who began so outcast, by the time the last book came around she had a veritable army of ride or dies behind her.
Bob the Genie. Probably the best character in the whole book!
The climactic scene. For all that I had some major issues with parts of the characterizations and writing, the climatic showdown was well done. Honestly it was the best part of this final book.
What I didn't like:
The tonal inconsistency. At first I thought this was going to be a lighthearted romp, there was a very high humor quotient and Bob the Genie had some great lines. But as the story went on, and the themes got more serious and the stakes go higher, the corny jokes and the lightheartedness felt rather belabored.
The writing for Integrity. As much as I did like her, I realized she is not they type of heroine I'd want to have very often, especially given her set of circumstances. Integrity is an avowed pacifist and, I gotta hand it to the author, she stuck to her guns with that. The problem is, Integrity was always in so much peril and people were always trying to kill her. She obviously had hero plot armor so of course her pacifist stance works and actually is an advantage in the story and turns out to be pivotal in the resolution. But as I was reading I had a hard time seeing Integrity willing to lend the people who hate her or who abuse her understanding. And outside of that, she would go haring off to dangerous places all by herself. It is only her hero plot armor that saves her and that makes for unsatisfactory reading tbh. And while I like a funny, snarky, heroine with a bent sense of humor (See Ivy from this author's Slouch Witch series). I'd much rather have one who will cut a bitch too.
Integrity's first person POV. I think this is a lot of my issue. So much of what we know we learn as Integrity learns, but she seems to learn at the last minute when she necessarily needs to know stuff. I would have liked to know about the Demons. How they got there? What exactly is the use of the veil since it seems like Integrity can go into the lowlands where the Demons are and cross the veil like she is simply parting a curtain.
Byron. Again, I think he was a casualty of the first person POV. Everything coming through Integrity. As such we are in her head a lot as she moons over him, but he is really rather underwritten. At times he is downright awful other times he is just meh.
The romance. See: Byron above.
The pacing. The first and second book were good. The first book was a good intro and laid foundation. the Second book had a great central plot of the Sidhe games. But the third book felt like filler and the first 60% of the final book was a slog. Too much navel gazing and honestly Integrity being hyper focused on the wrong thing.
The villain. A mustache twirler.
The ending. Too Abrupt. All of that. Seriously world changing stuff and it just ends. No epilogue, not aftermath, just 'bye."
So yeah, It was an ok listen and it passed the time. But the author did not stick the landing. And it hovers over the whole series.
But it was an easy, engaging listen and the narrator of he audiobooks was excellent
December 29, 2016
Last Wish (Highland Magic Book 4) by Helen Harper
'Last Wish' is the final book in the Highland Magic Series. Integrity Adair is supposed to be dead and trying to save the world at the same time. She has a lot on her plate as she worries about the supposed unfulfilled prophesy, the Steward Aifric Moncrieffe's evil plans, Fomori in the Lowlands, and her lust (or love?) for her mortal enemy's son, Byron. She can do it all right? All while keeping a steady stream of jokes and a tight grip on her beliefs, and getting the guy in the end.
I loved this Series and this book did not disappoint! I am totally a paranormal fantasy junky and find the books even better with a little love thrown in. Keep reading to find out why but be prepared for some spoilers!!!!
I found myself laughing out loud at several points during this book from the comical situations and witty banter between the characters. I mean how can you NOT start to smile a bit in Chapter 4 when the Bull discovers Adair in his study and believes she is a spirit coming back to haunt him. I fell in love with all the characters in this book from the beginning, Adair's motley clan is so endearing with their individual quirks and I connected with them on several levels.
Adair is such an inspirational character with her strong sense of self (in most cases) and pacifist beliefs. We all have a little to learn about ourselves in the best of scenarios and she definitely hits rock bottom in Chapter 11 with Morna's death, Taylor severely injured, and being in Aifric's clutches again but she still maintains what she believes in. I appreciate that she realizes everyone has something to give-she wants you to succeed and looks for the better in those around her. She also accepts your flaws and rolls with it. I love her witty comebacks and her jokes (even tho they are so painful at times!).
Let's take a minute and talk about Byron and Integrity! There is some lovemaking in this book so if you are not ready for some sexual language this might not be for you-but it is also not raunchy either (I would describe it as mild in details). I love the dynamics between these two. I am SO glad that Chapter 9 happened! I can only imagine what was going through Byron's head while he was coming to terms with the fact that Integrity was, in fact, alive.
"His jaw tightened and he flicked his wrist again, bringing me towards him so my face was directly in front of his. He reached up as if about to touch me and drew back again. ‘This isn’t real,’ he whispered. ‘You aren’t real.’
‘I am.’ I scanned his features, willing him to see the truth."
However, sometimes I feel like Byron is too giving and willing to accept situations. He totally has a right to be pissed that he grieved for her death but seems to accept the situation as is. But, Integrity also had to protect those she feels responsible for and didn't know she could trust Byron after she tried (several times!) to show him how evil his father is. Byron has really evolved from the character we met in book 1. But I LOVED this (I may have melted in to a puddle a bit):
"‘And you kept it a secret?’
‘Byron, I…’ I sighed. ‘Yes, I kept it a secret.’
A muscle jerked in his jaw. He took a step towards me. ‘Why shouldn’t you tell a secret around a clock?’ His voice was dangerously low.
‘Excuse me?’
‘You heard me.’ He tapped his foot.
‘Because, um, time will tell?’
Sorley’s eyes turned from me to Byron and back again then his face cleared and he let out a loud guffaw.
‘That’s right,’ Byron said silkily. ‘And if it takes us until the end of time, I’m going to make sure that you trust me. You got that?’
‘I’ve got it!’ Shite."
Do you love Bob? I LOVE Bob, he is the best 'all knowing being' ever! I underestimated the depth of his character throughout the previous books and then Chapter 20 happened and I fell in love with him for different reasons. When I first started this series I thought Bob was going to be the equivalent to Jar Jar Binks but our genie has way more depth and is such a pivotal character. He also adds so much great commentary to the story.
"I opened my mouth to answer but the expression on Bob’s face stymied me. ‘What?’ I asked.
‘You ‒ you ‒ you had sex! You shagged him, you dolt!’ He put his hands on his hips as if it were a personal affront.
‘How do you…?’ Oops. I mentally slapped myself.
‘How do I know? How do I know?’ His voice was getting higher and higher. ‘I’m a magnificent being with powers you can only dream of!’
‘Bob,’ I said tiredly.
‘Your T-shirt’s on back to front,’ he informed me. I glanced down. Ah. ‘You’d better pray you used protection,’ he continued. ‘Who knows what nasty disease you might have caught? And what about Tipsania?’" (I totally laughed out loud and my husband gave me that startled 'are you crazy' look)
One of the things that didn't line up for me is Aifric's gifts. In Chapter 14 he clearly exhibited the ability for pyrokinesis when he lit the building on fire but when Adair 'steals' his gift she only talks about his healing. Aifric even indicates that she stole all of his gift before he takes Bob's letter opener (whoops, I mean scimitar) from Adair before his demise. What were Aifric's abilities really?
I loved that love prevails in the end of this story. I know it's cliché but it's a great ending for this series and it's what I wanted to have happen. I wanted Integrity to have a happy ending after having to live through the crap she did and the important people she lost in her life. I wanted Tipsy and Candy to be together despite the social racism they faced for their happiness. I wanted Taylor to live through his grievous injuries and maintain a fatherly/mentor relationship for Integrity. I wanted I even wanted May and Fergus to have their happily ever after even with May's deception. And I am glad that Aifric's death was a result of his own actions and none of the characters had to eliminate him themselves.
I would love to see more come from this story line. So please Helen Harper (if you are reading this), consider extending this series, maybe from a different perspective with some new story line. I love too many of these characters for this to be their end.
All in all I thought this was a great book and a fantastic series. I could not put it down and read this book in about 24 hours. I enjoyed the authors writing style and the pace set in this story. It had some great twists and turns I was not expecting and I am happy with the chosen ending to Integrity's story. Thanks for reading my review! I hope you enjoy or enjoyed this book and series as much as I did.
Meg
'Last Wish' is the final book in the Highland Magic Series. Integrity Adair is supposed to be dead and trying to save the world at the same time. She has a lot on her plate as she worries about the supposed unfulfilled prophesy, the Steward Aifric Moncrieffe's evil plans, Fomori in the Lowlands, and her lust (or love?) for her mortal enemy's son, Byron. She can do it all right? All while keeping a steady stream of jokes and a tight grip on her beliefs, and getting the guy in the end.
I loved this Series and this book did not disappoint! I am totally a paranormal fantasy junky and find the books even better with a little love thrown in. Keep reading to find out why but be prepared for some spoilers!!!!
I found myself laughing out loud at several points during this book from the comical situations and witty banter between the characters. I mean how can you NOT start to smile a bit in Chapter 4 when the Bull discovers Adair in his study and believes she is a spirit coming back to haunt him. I fell in love with all the characters in this book from the beginning, Adair's motley clan is so endearing with their individual quirks and I connected with them on several levels.
Adair is such an inspirational character with her strong sense of self (in most cases) and pacifist beliefs. We all have a little to learn about ourselves in the best of scenarios and she definitely hits rock bottom in Chapter 11 with Morna's death, Taylor severely injured, and being in Aifric's clutches again but she still maintains what she believes in. I appreciate that she realizes everyone has something to give-she wants you to succeed and looks for the better in those around her. She also accepts your flaws and rolls with it. I love her witty comebacks and her jokes (even tho they are so painful at times!).
Let's take a minute and talk about Byron and Integrity! There is some lovemaking in this book so if you are not ready for some sexual language this might not be for you-but it is also not raunchy either (I would describe it as mild in details). I love the dynamics between these two. I am SO glad that Chapter 9 happened! I can only imagine what was going through Byron's head while he was coming to terms with the fact that Integrity was, in fact, alive.
"His jaw tightened and he flicked his wrist again, bringing me towards him so my face was directly in front of his. He reached up as if about to touch me and drew back again. ‘This isn’t real,’ he whispered. ‘You aren’t real.’
‘I am.’ I scanned his features, willing him to see the truth."
However, sometimes I feel like Byron is too giving and willing to accept situations. He totally has a right to be pissed that he grieved for her death but seems to accept the situation as is. But, Integrity also had to protect those she feels responsible for and didn't know she could trust Byron after she tried (several times!) to show him how evil his father is. Byron has really evolved from the character we met in book 1. But I LOVED this (I may have melted in to a puddle a bit):
"‘And you kept it a secret?’
‘Byron, I…’ I sighed. ‘Yes, I kept it a secret.’
A muscle jerked in his jaw. He took a step towards me. ‘Why shouldn’t you tell a secret around a clock?’ His voice was dangerously low.
‘Excuse me?’
‘You heard me.’ He tapped his foot.
‘Because, um, time will tell?’
Sorley’s eyes turned from me to Byron and back again then his face cleared and he let out a loud guffaw.
‘That’s right,’ Byron said silkily. ‘And if it takes us until the end of time, I’m going to make sure that you trust me. You got that?’
‘I’ve got it!’ Shite."
Do you love Bob? I LOVE Bob, he is the best 'all knowing being' ever! I underestimated the depth of his character throughout the previous books and then Chapter 20 happened and I fell in love with him for different reasons. When I first started this series I thought Bob was going to be the equivalent to Jar Jar Binks but our genie has way more depth and is such a pivotal character. He also adds so much great commentary to the story.
"I opened my mouth to answer but the expression on Bob’s face stymied me. ‘What?’ I asked.
‘You ‒ you ‒ you had sex! You shagged him, you dolt!’ He put his hands on his hips as if it were a personal affront.
‘How do you…?’ Oops. I mentally slapped myself.
‘How do I know? How do I know?’ His voice was getting higher and higher. ‘I’m a magnificent being with powers you can only dream of!’
‘Bob,’ I said tiredly.
‘Your T-shirt’s on back to front,’ he informed me. I glanced down. Ah. ‘You’d better pray you used protection,’ he continued. ‘Who knows what nasty disease you might have caught? And what about Tipsania?’" (I totally laughed out loud and my husband gave me that startled 'are you crazy' look)
One of the things that didn't line up for me is Aifric's gifts. In Chapter 14 he clearly exhibited the ability for pyrokinesis when he lit the building on fire but when Adair 'steals' his gift she only talks about his healing. Aifric even indicates that she stole all of his gift before he takes Bob's letter opener (whoops, I mean scimitar) from Adair before his demise. What were Aifric's abilities really?
I loved that love prevails in the end of this story. I know it's cliché but it's a great ending for this series and it's what I wanted to have happen. I wanted Integrity to have a happy ending after having to live through the crap she did and the important people she lost in her life. I wanted Tipsy and Candy to be together despite the social racism they faced for their happiness. I wanted Taylor to live through his grievous injuries and maintain a fatherly/mentor relationship for Integrity. I wanted I even wanted May and Fergus to have their happily ever after even with May's deception. And I am glad that Aifric's death was a result of his own actions and none of the characters had to eliminate him themselves.
I would love to see more come from this story line. So please Helen Harper (if you are reading this), consider extending this series, maybe from a different perspective with some new story line. I love too many of these characters for this to be their end.
All in all I thought this was a great book and a fantastic series. I could not put it down and read this book in about 24 hours. I enjoyed the authors writing style and the pace set in this story. It had some great twists and turns I was not expecting and I am happy with the chosen ending to Integrity's story. Thanks for reading my review! I hope you enjoy or enjoyed this book and series as much as I did.
Meg
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2017
I am so sorry to finish this book, I loved this series. I'm going to miss reading Integrity's stupid jokes and Bob's weirdness personified.
The thing I haven't mentioned in my reviews of the prior books is Integrity's stance on pacifism and how it effects the books. Most of the fantasy that I've read is very dependent on violence, not ever main character is violent but a lot of violence occurs in fantasy.
Often a character states that he or she is a pacifist but then is forced through the narrative to commit acts of violence or murder, to save something or someone they love or themselves.
This sets this series of books apart and makes them memorable. I'll Set this series on the Want to reread shelf, and look forward to visiting with them again.
The thing I haven't mentioned in my reviews of the prior books is Integrity's stance on pacifism and how it effects the books. Most of the fantasy that I've read is very dependent on violence, not ever main character is violent but a lot of violence occurs in fantasy.
Often a character states that he or she is a pacifist but then is forced through the narrative to commit acts of violence or murder, to save something or someone they love or themselves.
This sets this series of books apart and makes them memorable. I'll Set this series on the Want to reread shelf, and look forward to visiting with them again.
December 8, 2016
Oh no! Not the last book! Nuuuuuuu! Integrity is one of my favorite characters :( Where will I get my pun fix now!
Aside from that heartbreak, I thought the last book was pretty well done and was mostly satisfied with the ending (both of the book and the series).
I say mostly because...
Aside from that heartbreak, I thought the last book was pretty well done and was mostly satisfied with the ending (both of the book and the series).
I say mostly because...
November 28, 2016
OMG! No! That's the two words that came out of my mouth at the end. Don't take that the wrong way because this is a phenomenal series. I only said "OMG, NO" at the end because it was the end. I mean I want more and seriously what a way to end that tale. I will definitely be revisiting Scotland, Integrity, Byron and all the others many times. Helen, you have out done yourself. I can't wait for your new series 'The Lazy Girl's Guide to Magic'. Fantastic, is my last word for this amazing series.
August 19, 2021
A satisfying end to the quadrology.
December 31, 2018
I have to admit that going into the series I suspected it wasn't quite to my taste, but I was in need of a light read and I was intrigued by the description of the world that Helen Harper had created. Also the box set was on sale at £2.69 - so I bought the series. I think I wouldn't have kept on reading if I'd had to pay full price for each book in the series, but I did read them pretty much one after the other to the end.
Other than that, it's brightly coloured, dramatic, makes me think superhero movies a bit - Integrity the main lead has a cast of friends with useful talents and noticeable characteristics (unusual backgrounds/brightly coloured hair etc). The adventures are all quite fun. A lot of thought and imagination went into setting up the magic and ins and outs.
Read the box set through, and am making individual comment on book 4 - I thought parts of the ending were really clever and dramatic, BUT - a particular annoyance of mine is overdoing the awfulness of the "dark world" - in this case the world of the Fomori. Bluntly, as described and explained, no Fomori could have survived as long as they did to still be there at the start of the action in this series. I've seen other fantasy authors get this wrong - one of them in the first pages of their book. So this book got three stars not four like the rest of the series. But if you like highly coloured action quest adventure with a band of determined heroes and heroines, then you may well enjoy this series.
I really like Helen Harpers Slouch Witch series, in part because it isn't highly coloured.
Other than that, it's brightly coloured, dramatic, makes me think superhero movies a bit - Integrity the main lead has a cast of friends with useful talents and noticeable characteristics (unusual backgrounds/brightly coloured hair etc). The adventures are all quite fun. A lot of thought and imagination went into setting up the magic and ins and outs.
Read the box set through, and am making individual comment on book 4 - I thought parts of the ending were really clever and dramatic, BUT - a particular annoyance of mine is overdoing the awfulness of the "dark world" - in this case the world of the Fomori. Bluntly, as described and explained, no Fomori could have survived as long as they did to still be there at the start of the action in this series. I've seen other fantasy authors get this wrong - one of them in the first pages of their book. So this book got three stars not four like the rest of the series. But if you like highly coloured action quest adventure with a band of determined heroes and heroines, then you may well enjoy this series.
I really like Helen Harpers Slouch Witch series, in part because it isn't highly coloured.
August 30, 2017
Overall this series was pretty good. I had my complaints, but it didn't turn me off from the book.
By book 2 I knew I wasn't reading it for the romance. I swear I never thought the Byron would go from boy to man.
This series is about Integrity and her journey.
I loved the side characters. The merman was scared of the sea, The warlock was scared of everything. The genie was a drama king. The Troll was a hard ass who couldn't admit that he loved haggis' <---- that may be spelled wrong, but it's some type of furry animal.
They were a bunch of outcasts who didn't fit in anywhere, but they all fit together. They weren't your typical heroes, but they still saved the day.
I love how Tegs had a sounding board. She listened to everyone's advice before she jumped head first.
Lastly, I could feel her emotions throughout the series. This book especially. I felt her rage when she couldn't speak. I felt her stress from becoming a leader. She really did grow up. Her jokes never got better, but I'm not sure that could be helped.
Now my complaints, the romance was shit in this book, some names I couldn't pronounce if my life depended on it. I still don't feel like I knew Byron by end of it.
Overall, it was a great world to get lost in.
By book 2 I knew I wasn't reading it for the romance. I swear I never thought the Byron would go from boy to man.
This series is about Integrity and her journey.
I loved the side characters. The merman was scared of the sea, The warlock was scared of everything. The genie was a drama king. The Troll was a hard ass who couldn't admit that he loved haggis' <---- that may be spelled wrong, but it's some type of furry animal.
They were a bunch of outcasts who didn't fit in anywhere, but they all fit together. They weren't your typical heroes, but they still saved the day.
I love how Tegs had a sounding board. She listened to everyone's advice before she jumped head first.
Lastly, I could feel her emotions throughout the series. This book especially. I felt her rage when she couldn't speak. I felt her stress from becoming a leader. She really did grow up. Her jokes never got better, but I'm not sure that could be helped.
Now my complaints, the romance was shit in this book, some names I couldn't pronounce if my life depended on it. I still don't feel like I knew Byron by end of it.
Overall, it was a great world to get lost in.
July 8, 2019
The series overall is a good one. I still wish there were more than 4 books. There is certainly more to be told.
I only gave this last book 4 stars instead of 5 because of the abrupt ending. I would have enjoyed a happily ever after epilogue or something. Also, there should have been more scenes at the end between Integrity and Byron. The slow burn went on way too long and then there was still not enough couple development at the end. I don't just mean sex scenes - I mean we never really got to see them as a true couple. Even at the very end, So, 4 stars.
I only gave this last book 4 stars instead of 5 because of the abrupt ending. I would have enjoyed a happily ever after epilogue or something. Also, there should have been more scenes at the end between Integrity and Byron. The slow burn went on way too long and then there was still not enough couple development at the end. I don't just mean sex scenes - I mean we never really got to see them as a true couple. Even at the very end, So, 4 stars.
January 3, 2021
Never a dull moment. Integrity continues to be kinda awful to byron but the story arch over the books and the overall plot was good.
March 30, 2021
3-1/2 *'s - overall very much enjoyed the series. This was not my favorite installment of the group.
November 1, 2021
4.5 stars
The perfect closure to a great series!
The perfect closure to a great series!
January 4, 2019
I read this series in one fell swoop and loved it.
June 5, 2017
Integrity is still pretending to be dead, Byron is grieving, Aifric is plotting to marry Tipsy & Byron so he can get all Tipsy's money. And the Trolls are all at the Adair lands, leaving most of Scottish Highlands vulnerable to the Formian demons.
Everyone seems to have a plan, but none of them are very good, and there is still the Prophecy.
Integrity lives up to her name and is a huge pacificist. Which is really hard to do when facing Aifric, he of the silver tongue.
Quite enjoyed the ending and Bob's disappointment with the Last Wish.
Everyone seems to have a plan, but none of them are very good, and there is still the Prophecy.
Integrity lives up to her name and is a huge pacificist. Which is really hard to do when facing Aifric, he of the silver tongue.
Quite enjoyed the ending and Bob's disappointment with the Last Wish.
October 19, 2018
Ending didn’t blow it. Would read more from this author.
August 6, 2022
The final book!
Review to come.
Review to come.
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