Rogue Ghosts & Other Miscreants

The Guild Codex: Warped #3

by Annette Marie

As a former con-artist, I love a convoluted, mind-bending scheme as much as the next guy. But as a recently promoted MagiPol agent, I love it significantly less than that guy.



Especially when the life of a kidnapped teen hangs in the balance.



Between confusing orders and conflicting evidence, this whole investigation has me and my partner, Lienna, spinning in circles. Why is our boss keeping this case off the books? Why is our top suspect, the most notorious rogue in Vancouver, mired in contradictions? And why am I the only one who cares more about the victim than their own ulterior motives?



Everyone wants me to shut up and follow orders, but that's not my style. I'll do whatever it takes to save this kid—even if that means returning to my roguish roots.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Audiobook, Magic, Paranormal, Romance, New Adult

Audible Audio

First published August 6, 2021

About the author

Annette Marie is the best-selling author of over thirty books, including the expansive urban fantasy series The Guild Codex, epic urban fantasy series Steel & Stone, and romantic fantasy trilogy Red Winter.

A 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist in Fantasy and an Amazon Charts Bestseller, Annette has sold over 2 million books. Her books have been translated into French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian, with readers coming back again and again for her addictive blend of fast-paced adventure, tantalizing forbidden romance, and unforgettable characters.

Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minions of darkness. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in her garden or an art project while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.

To find out more about Annette and her books, visit www.annettemarie.ca

Reviews

[Felix (Helen 2.0) · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, Agent Kit and the Ghost finally meet!

The further we get in this series the more it intersects with the Spellbound and Demonized timelines, which is fun. I love getting to see what the various main characters think of each other. (Everyone thinks Robin is tiny 🤣)

The best part of this book was Kit developing a fierce crush on the Crystal Druid. Whenever Zak showed up, Kit truly could not go a single sentence without mentioning his sexy voice and gorgeous eyes and impressive physique 😆😆 that boy has got it BAD

At this point I might ship Kit and Zak more than I ship Kit and Leanne tbh

We end with Kit and Leanne finally being asked to investigate the whole mess involving Robin, Tori, Ezra, Zylas, and the demon realm. Which means I’m looking forward to everyone’s paths colliding in Spellbound #8 and Demonized #4.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Star Rating: —> 5 MILLLIONNNN Stars
🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟

Guys. Gals. Everyone. THIS BOOK! THIS WAS THE BEST INSTALLMENT OF THE WARPED SERIES YET! What an AMAZING read!

Before I begin, as I always say— If you haven’t started the adventure that is The Guild Codex Universe... START NOW!!! You may read any of the series on their own, but it will NOT (in my opinion) be as satisfying! You can look to Annette's website for the recommended reading order!

I mean, how will you fully appreciate the fun cameos without starting at the beginning of the CodexVerse?!? But again, just my opinion! (And cameos galore, there are, my friends!)

BOY was this ACTION PACKED & HILARIOUS AF! Kit & Lienna are sent on a TOP SECRET mission, under no circumstances can the MPD know ANYTHING about it, by Captain Blythe to apprehend & bring in The Ghost (Our favorite Druid, Zak!)— Dead or Alive! Which honestly, Blythe was being PREEEETTTTYYYY SUS with this mission. Why can't the MPD, besides Kit & Lienna, know a THING about it?

Regardless, Kit & Lienna have to get sneaky, sneaky with this mission! (Uhhh & I LOVEEE IT! 😍)

I love both Kit & Lienna so much!!! I gained so much respect for Lienna AND Kit in this novel (more on Kit in a bit...); I mean this speaks for itself—

She spun to face me so suddenly that a harried mom with a toddler in one hand and an extra-large popcorn in the other had to do some nifty sashaying to avoid her. “How about I cut off your fingers, fashion them into an artifact to suppress your dumbass warps, and make you wear your own desiccated digits as a tiara?”

Bahahha! My GOD I LOVE LIENNA! That part had me choking on my water I was laughing so hard (no worries—I am now fully okay. I know you were SO worried for me for a second there 😉). So proud of her for so many reasons that I don't wan't to spoil for you! So 🤐 on that matter!

I totally loved Kit's character arc in this book! I gotta say, even though I craved some more romance between Kit & Lienna (AGHHH THESE TWO BETTER END UP TOGETHER!!! Phew *breathe* Ashley—gotta have faith! Which I totally do. I'm just impatient AF! Haha), I think that this installment dealt with some very much needed moral issues for Kit. I mean with great power, comes great responsibility 😉— and Kit needed to come to terms with just how powerful & terrifying his abilities can be! He has such a good heart, and Marie & Jacobsen, (along with a push from Lienna) expertly led Kit on a 'come to Jesus meeting' mission 😂 with himself. I think he definitely needed to work on himself a bit more before he could be truly ready for the possibility of a more-than-platonic relationship with Lienna. The transformation he went through is just a start, but it was perfect! I am so PROUD of Kit! His rollercoaster ride of emotions and revelations was just... amazing & honestly quite emotional. I feel like he really experienced a paradigm shift that has matured & bettered him as a person, a partner, and a mage.

Besides, he was too busy crushing on THE ONE AND ONLY CRYSTAL DRUID, the infamous ZAK, to have all that much romantic development with Lienna anyway 😂 (not to say that they did not have quite significant development in other areas—because they definitely did! But I don't want to give TOO much away!).

[ *dramatic pause*
The One & Only Crystal Druid ALSO happens to be the title of the first book in the newest series addition to the CodexVerse— The Guild Codex: Unveiled! Which will be released NEXT MONTH!!! (Sept. 2021) I have to say I. AM. SO. DAMN. PUMPED! Not only do we finally get a series revolving around Zak— we will be introduced to a new heroine as well! I can't wait! ANYWAY... back to it! 😉]

Every scene between Kit & Zak was GOLD. GOLD, I TELL YOU! Zak's presence in this novel was one of my favorite parts... i'd be lying to tell you otherwise, haha. I think most Guild Codex fans can RELATE! I mean PLSSSSSS ! This is the Dreamy Druid™️ we are talking about! And yes— that is my official, trademarked (not, like, legally, but like that REALLY matters? Psh) nickname for Zak. Kit brings out a more playful side of our absolute favorite, mysterious, broody, brooding, Broodster McBrooderson, HUNKKKK of a druid AND OH MAI GOD DID I LOVE THAT! Zak plays a big part in Kit's character arc as well and that melted my heart!

Kit is a damn HUNK in his own right, so his man crush on Zak just—GENIUS !!! I mean... just one example...

Tossing his coat aside, he sank down beside me, all while I stared at him. Okay, yeah, I was slightly distracted by the pattern of black feathers tattooed down his bare arms—seriously, would tattoos make my biceps look that good? Because our arms were similarly buff and I wasn’t opposed to some tasteful ink.

And THAT is far from the only fanboy moment that Kit has over Zak. 😂 BRILLIANCE!

This is so very brilliant, that personally, I am quite confused at how very awestruck by Marie & Jacobsen's brilliance I am. I already KNOW they are brilliant—I should EXPECT THIS STUFF! But nope, they keep on surprising me & upping the ante, one book at a time.


I feel drunk on happiness! Ahhhh! Haha.

100% recommend!!! (I mean, DUH!)


________________


YAYYYY ARC 💙💚💙💚💙

[spring ~♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was the second time he’d called me that. He was tiptoeing dangerously close to official nickname territory. Were we becoming friends?

Screw Lienna.
Can Zak and Kit go on a date already?

[Lucie V. · Rating 4 out of 5]

✅ Characters
✅ Kit and Lienna working with Zak
✅ The different series feel more and more connected
✅ Pace & Plot
✅ Magic & action
✅ Dynamic between Kit and Lienna
✅ Drama at the MPD
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: blood, injuries while fighting, shootings
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️ / 5

The different series in this universe continue to be interconnected, and I love it! Seeing how Kit and Lienna are forced to investigate and then work with Zak, but also how they meet Robin and how their actions impact Tori and her three guys, makes it even easier to get into the book. It makes the stakes feel higher because it impacts the main characters from 3 different series.

For the first time with this series, I am sad that I don’t get to read the next book right away. I am left wanting more and needing to know what happens next sooner rather than later.

I enjoyed the dynamic between Kit and Lienna more in this book. Sure, there is some anger and mild drama between them because they have different values, and while Kit does not hesitate to cross some lines to save people, Lienna is hell-bent on respecting the rules and doing everything by the book. Still, it moved the focus away from Kit’s infatuation with Lienna and gave more substance to their relationship. Having known them for three books now, I would be on board with them eventually becoming romantically involved, but I am glad it didn’t happen right away.

Kit gained depth and more personality in this book. He remains a jokester, but he also has more serious moments, and he is realizing just how powerful he is and everything he could do if he put his mind to it. He is starting to understand just how scary he is, and I liked seeing how it affected his interactions with Lienna, even if it was not always in a positive way.

Overall, while I was annoyed with Kit's insta-crush and Lienna's incessant blushing every time she saw Kit shirtless, seeing them having issues and working them out was so much better. It made them feel more real and relatable, and so much more interesting as a potential couple!

“The lone ranger thing works for you. It’s cool as shit, and you’ve got the jawline to pull off the whole roguish badass look, but this time is different.”

I was so happy to see Zak in this book, and it was even better to see him reluctantly work with Kit. Also, the way Kit has a semi-crush on Zak, mixed with his dry sarcasm, created some funny moments and jokes.


🍹0.1 Four Shifters and a Stranger ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍹0.5 A Damsel and a Demigod ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹1. Three Mages and a Margarita ⭐⭐⭐.5
👮1. Warping Minds & Other Misdemeanors ⭐⭐⭐
🍹2. Dark Arts and a Daiquiri ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹3. Two Witches and a Whiskey ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹4. Demon Magic and a Martini ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
😈1. Taming Demons for Beginners ⭐⭐⭐⭐
👮2. Hellbound Guilds & Other Misdirections ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍹5. The Alchemist and an Amaretto ⭐⭐⭐⭐
👮2.5 A Little Warped ⭐⭐⭐.5
😈2. Slaying Monsters for the Feeble ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹6. Druid Vices and a Vodka ⭐⭐⭐⭐
😈3. Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equiped ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍹7. Lost Talismans and a Tequila ⭐⭐⭐⭐


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[Lindsey (Lindsey Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It’s all about appearances , Shakespeare. Scaring the shit out of people is one kind of shield. Acting like a harmless, dimwitted jokester is another.”

Okay, Rogue Ghost & Other Miscreants is now officially my favorite Warped book so far. Why, you may ask? Well, lots of super valid and well thought-out reasons, which I’ll be sure to specify below. But if you think a lot of them have to do with a certain broody but handsome, morally quite dark grey and notorious Ghost… I’d say how dare y-… yeah you’re definitely right.

What can I say? If Kit can’t resist his charms, how do you expect me to?

But seriously, this story was amazing on so many levels and yes, one (okay a few) of those levels had to do with Zak showing up. See, the story starts with Kit and Lienna getting a super-secret assignment from Captain Blythe: apprehend the Ghost, the notorious rogue who is wanted for multiple kidnappings, amongst other things. So if you’ve read the Spellbound series and were wondering how Kit and Zak ever met – THIS IS IT! Kit and Lienna go after the infamous Ghost, but it soon turns out that things aren’t as obvious as they seem and soon they’re racing against the clock to save a kidnapped teen boy and kind of reluctantly end up working with Zak to do it. And let me just say that I could read about Kit and Zak bantering ALL DAY LONG. This duo is just gold together – they just fit together so well and wow, I had a big goofy smile on my face for all of their interactions. It also didn’t help that Kit was pretty much crushing on Zak in a super hilarious yet totally relatable way, always remarking how awesome and badass and sexy he looked. Kit, my man, your crush just made me like you even more.

But enough about Zak, because as I said, his presence was just one of the many amazing things about this part of the story. Can we talk for a minute about all the character development and moral questions this book threw at us? Because whoa, this got deep and intense and I’m so here for it, even if it also hurt a little bit. Kit’s magic has always been awesome and funny, but it can also be super frightening, even if Kit himself sees it as harmless. So in this book, his morality and actions are being questioned and compared to Lienna’s and Zak’s. Which are obviously two completely different moral codes, so where does Kit fall on that spectrum? Though I did not enjoy the tensions between partners Lienna and Kit because of this, it was still a super intense yet necessary introspection that Kit (and Lienna) needed to do. And here’s hoping it’ll only bring them even closer together, because I need these two to be happy.

Luckily, there is still more than enough to balance the sometimes dark moral questions. The humor is still my favorite of all the Guild Codexes, with Kit’s brand of cheesy, movie-quoting, stuffed-unicorn-loving sass still going strong. Just try to get through one of these books without cracking a smile, I dare you! Also, once more the action is fact-paced and the mystery intriguing. I finished it in about 24 hours because these books are just impossible to put down once you get started.

And then there’s the worldbuilding. I love how each Guild Codex series can be read separately, and yet every single time I’m also in awe at how well these stories and timelines overlap. They never break the story, never seem forced or unnecessary and yet they always add that little extra for those readers who did read the other series. Other than Zak, this story featured a few other characters from the Guild Codex series and I ate those scenes up like candy.

Also, that ending? I am so hyped for book four of Warped. I am equally hyped for The One and Only Crystal Druid, releasing in September. AND I am totally re-hyped for the Spellbound and Demonized series, which I’m now itching to re-read. Keyword of this review? You got it: HYPED!

Overall, I just highly, highly recommend the entire Guild Codex series. If you love a good urban fantasy that has it all: humor, action, adventure, mystery, worldbuilding, character development and romance, this is it.

[Mikky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oh, how I wish I loved this series as much as I love all the other series in the Guild Codex Universe. The world the author has built is so interesting and the overall story is great but I just dislike and can't connect with Kit. The narrator wasn't so bad this time around (only because there weren't many terms specific to this universe for him to butcher like in past books). The saving grace for this book in particular however was ZAK! I now understand why the author recommended waiting to read this before reading The Guild Codex: Unveiled. Knowing what he was up to before his series happened is great but I have no regrets for not waiting to read this first. I'm back to feeling ambivalent toward this series after this narration so I'll probably be sticking around to read the next book in this series.

[Robin (Bridge Four) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm totally in this series for Kit! Lienna I can take or leave, she is a pretty good straight man to Kit's jokestery side but she is a bit blah by comparison. Still Kit's stories are so much fun that it is okay if she just isn't my cup-o anything at the moment. That doesn't stop me from wanting Kit to get the girl.

Kit and Lienna are on a case off the books since there is a mole in the precinct and if they are going to find a kidnapped kid they are going to need to work fast. Kit might be a little more emotionally invested in this case than the others he has worked. He was a vulnerable kid with magic once and really sees himself in the victims they are looking for.

But there is trouble in the paradise of working with Lienna since she is so by the book and Kit is willing to break all kinds of rules if it means catching the kidnapper and saving a 15 year old boy. Who can they trust? Kit is very willing to work on the shadier side of the line because not everyone over there is bad, as he should know. Lienna on the other hand sees everything in black and white so there partnership is a bit rocky in this one.

Now, I have not read the side series, except for one book, but man I hope the druid is in one of the side series because I could really get behind reading his books. Still fun to get to hang out with such a cool side character

Hold up a hot second. Had the scary rogue man recognized my King Lear quote? Was he bantering back at me by referencing the fool? How could this guy be a literal god of manliness and well-read? My pretend crush on his unholy, broody hunkiness might’ve just shifted closer to reality.

Another supremely cool story with very interesting magic and a little insight on the grift that was run on Kit to force him into service. It will be interesting to see what he does with some of the nuggets of knowledge he picked up here.

Still another book that lead me to want to read the authors entire catalogue since I had such a good time. Also I could totally see more of the Druid and the interesting small woman that has everyone in a tizzy.

[Denisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall series rating: 2.5.


I'm so disappointed, I really wanted more from Kit. He sounded like great fun but overall, his personality was pretty flat. Yes, there was an apparent evolution with the character, but only apparent.

It was kinda boring and not the series I was expecting. Even the plot fell short. This whole series was like a filler for the universe, it felt like the author had to write this, not like she wanted to write it.


Oh well, I'm still really really curious about the Druid's series. I hope that will be better than this one.

[Ian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bounty hunter is killed.
A teen is kidnapped.
And the Crystal Druid is suspect #1.

Agents Kit and Lienna are put on the case but it soon becomes apparent that the MPD are on a wild goose chase and the only one who cares about the kidnapped boy is Kit.

Another book in the expanded Guild Codex world and just as good as every other book in this world. A thumping good page turner.

[mith · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hate to say it, but this book might have been my least favorite in the series. The Warped series, while enjoyable and full of quirks, just doesn't seem to hook me as the other Guild Codex books. I like Kit... but... Sigh. I don't know. It just took a bit of time to fully get into this installment.

I found this book so frustrating! Lienna and Kit both got on my nerves a lot during my read and it made it hard to enjoy the fact that Zak! was back! I understood why Lienna and Kit went through the difficulties they did, but lord, it was also just so frustrating for me to read.

That might be my main problem with Rogue Ghosts. Otherwise, I appreciated the how different this case was from the others ones Kit and Lienna have faced. Each of their cases have been quite, uh... dangerous is certainly the word for it but it also seems like quite the understatement. (I hope the job has real good benefits bc bro.) Despite that, none of them required Kit to go to such extreme measures before and I liked that. I liked how he pushed his magic, seeing how far he could go. It sort of went hand in hand with what annoyed me, too, though, so its bittersweet.

I'm pleasantly surprised that there's another book in the series! I don’t know why but I fully expected it to be a trilogy or something, but I'm looking forward to the next book. Despite it being a little difficult to get into at first, there's still something very addicting about the way Marie and Jacobsen write.

Overall, 3 stars. I miss Zak.

[AℳY♔Queen of Fat cats♔Ain't no lie Baby Byebyebye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Need!

[Cat the bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know I tend to rave about any book related to the Guild Codex universe, but really - what else can I do? I literally couldn’t put it down, and even though I loved the other two Warped-books, this one was slightly better. Why, you ask? On one hand, I loved that Kit showed more depth - while he mostly acted like a (hyper intelligent) jokester in the previous books, here he came to discover (and deal) with his darker, morally shady side. And I love how his relationship with Lianna (even if it’s still a platonic one) evolved into something more mature.

Again I’ll try to avoid anything that might give away the plot (you’ll have to join the rollercoaster for that), just let it be told that it will have you sitting on the edge of your seat, chewing your fingernails off.

Apart from some cameos (Darius, Tori and finally Robin‘s meeting at the Arcane Library with Lianna), we get to see a lot of Zak, and I love how Kit had more than one fanboy moment when it comes to the grumpy Crystal Druid. And as with all these books - they can be read on their own, but you get these moments where you KNOW more than the GC-newbie if you already read Spellbound and Demonized (although… I’m sure that when - not if- I’ll reread Demonized, I’ll have some of those moments, too, when I’ll stumble upon Kit and Lianna).

Be warned, there’s a cliffhanger at the end, but nothing I can’t live with until the next book is out.

5 perfectly warped stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

actual rating: 4.25 stars

Without a doubt, "Rogue Ghosts & Other Miscreants" is the strongest installment of The Guild Codex: Warped so far in terms of character development. Annette Marie and Rob Jacobsen chose an intriguing combination of Guild Codex characters to include in this book. By showing us the important similarities and differences between those characters, the authors made the relationships deeper and more real.

Kit and Zak were the show stealers in this novel. I loved their relationship dynamics because there was nothing forced about them and would make sense if you analyze their backstories. Based on what I've seen, I think Kit's chaotic good and Zak's chaotic neutral—so different and yet so alike—and the chaotic common ground definitely made things more exciting. Please give us more Kit and Zak scenes in the future Guild Codex books. Every scene they had was a gem and I can't get enough!

Although there were many times that I got frustrated with Lienna, I am well-aware that all her actions were in character. The authors gave our headstrong abjuration sorceress prodigy more deep-seated issues and limitations to work on. Also, we already know that Lienna's lawful good personality complements Kit's chaotic good one. This brings us to my second favorite thing about this sequel—all the Kit, Lienna, and Zak interactions. Long story short, it was a crazy roller coaster ride!

Lastly, every time I see a link between different Guild Codex series, I'm still as impressed as I was the first time. Seriously, Annette Marie, how the hell do you keep track of all the the key events? Do you have a magical ultra-organized timeline?! We've had FIFTEEN books already and you are still consistent when it comes to sequencing. Even more surprising, I never feel overwhelmed by all the information. In fact, even if I hadn't read the other Guild Codex series, I would still find the Warped books engaging and addictive. (By the way, the same description applies to the Demonized series.) With all that said, I would recommend that you read all the Guild Codex series to enrich your experience. That would be the best way to explore this awesome world of lovable mythics.

[Tracy D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

OUTSTANDING URBAN FANTASY!

What I loved:

• Kit at his comedic best! Both his dialogue and his thoughts had me laughing out loud throughout the book. I tried really hard to not devour this in less than a day, but it was really difficult.

• The constant movie and pop culture references. I think Rob has outdone himself here! Just awesome!

• Kit's finally realizing how frightening his power can be, even to extremely talented and powerful Mythics. I can't wait to see if he'll be able to do more in the final upcoming installments.

• The best bromance I've ever read. #zakit

Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

When Kit and Lienna are forced to work with a certain ghostly fugitive that is wanted by the MPD, the partners can't see eye-to-eye. Will Kit and Lienna learn that doing the right thing isn't always black and white, and will they be able to get past their differences in order to save a boy's life in time?

On the Guild Codex timeline, Rogue Ghosts takes place after Dark Arts and a Daiquari.

Must add that the length of the story was pretty substantial. Excellent!

Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

There is lots of self-reflection and character development for Kit here, as well as some huge revelations regarding some side/crossover characters that make Rogue Ghosts and Other Miscreants an absolute must read for fans of The Guild Codex and The Crow and Hammer.

Pace: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Steady and compelling. The use of magic and fight scenes was great. The urgency at the end was on point.

Romance and Spice: ⭐⭐⭐/🌶️

With slow build and forbidden romance tropes, the romance is heavily on the back burner in this one. It's obvious that both H and h are into one another, but it's clear they have some obstacles in their way and some differences to settle.

Zero spice, making this series YA territory... for now. Will we be getting a chapter 22 in the final book? I can't wait to find out in 2022.

[Belles · Rating 3 out of 5]

These Warped books are ok, but they lack the charm and compelling characters of the Spellbound and Demonized series.

[Daisy Delfin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally I clicked with Kit and Leanne. For the first two books I had trouble to like Kit. Mainly his funny persona felt unbelievable to me. But in this book we see different sides of Kit's personality and finally I got why my #cakeeater friends love Kit so much. I was the odd men out until this book.

I enjoyed the crossover that is happening in this book. Kit and Leanne meet the Characters of Unveiled, Demonized and Spellbound. I enjoyed Kit meeting the Ghost the most. He got a mencrush on Zak, which is cute. And they form an alliance to find a kidnapped kid.

[Chloe Frizzle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best in the series so far

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the most interesting of the three books so far in this series. Lienna and Kit are sent by Captain Blythe on a secret mission (kept completely off the books) to apprehend and bring in the Ghost, aka the Crystal Druid. More people are missing and this time it's not just homeless or foster kids. Some adults have gone missing and a child that is very much wanted has also gone missing and all fingers point to the Crystal Druid, who, since the event with Varvara, has been keeping quiet.

But why does it have to be kept a secret? Other series have been hinting at moles all over the place, so why not the MPD? The big question is whether Captain Blythe is the mole or if someone she suspects is the mole needs to be kept out of the loop. While I don't think Blythe is mole, there is just enough uncertainty that you're kept guessing. And no, you don't know for sure by the end of this book.

While Kit does crush on Lienna a little bit, the funniest part is his crushing on Zak. There are many funny scenes involving the two of them (as well as between Zak and Lienna) and overall, it makes Zak more likable. One of my issues with him in the past is that I don't get many of the pop culture references since I haven't seen that many movies. But in this story, his wisecracks have more to do with the situation than to something I've never heard of, and that makes him funnier. But the other thing I love about this one that is that Zak does a lot of growing here. With the help of Lienna and Zak, he is able to realize just how dangerous his magic is, and that means he needs to be more responsible when using it. Up to now, he's seen his illusions as harmless pranks, or something that doesn't really hurt the recipient. Yes, he's been able to get them out of sticky situations in the past, but he's also used them unnecessarily in a way that might yield results but causes far more damage than he ever realized.

While the narrator still isn't my favorite, I've adjusted to his narration and it's no longer a stumbling block for me. I now associate his narration with Kit's voice and that's okay. I guess I can say he's growing on me the same way Kit is growing on me. I'm so glad that I'm reading these books in the author-recommended reading order because it's making so much more sense and the overlaps are lots of fun. But also, if you read only the full of one of these series, it's going to end up with spoilers for other books in other series. So if you decide you want to hit all of them at some point, then I would recommend you read them following her order.

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can I just say I am enjoying the heck out of Kit, Lienna and the MagiPol unit? Well, I am! A kidnapping case involving a teen mythic with a prime suspect that doesn’t fit the profile has our duo busy. Their boss has them working this one off the books. Which has them wondering if someone in the precinct is corrupt?

Cameos from beloved characters and lots of page time with Zak will keep you listening into the wee hours. I love the dynamics, snark and interplay between partners Kit and Lienna. Kit keeps playing on the sidelines and Lienna has had enough. Fortunately, Zak and Kit’s interactions kept me from getting frustrated by the stalled romance/partnership.

While I always enjoy the cases or story that each installment of the Guild Codex offers, it is the unique characters, friendships and their interactions that are the real gem of this world. Each character is fleshed out with their own distinct personality and I am always excited when there is series crossover. I listened to The One and Only Crystal Druid first and was delighted to hear the backstory of what transpired between Kit and Zak.

Iggy Toma continues to narrate this series and does a fantastic job of capturing the personalities of Kit, Lienna and even Zak. I love that this tale is delivered from the male POV and hope to see more.

While each book/series is intended to work as a standalone, listeners will be cheating themselves. At the very least, begin with the first Warped audio co-written with Rob Jacobsen. The books are in Kindle Unlimited and can be purchased in audio format at a reduced cost.

The case wrapped up before Marie & Jacobsen left us with just enough of a cliffhanger to have us excited for the next Warped installment. If you haven’t discovered the world of the Guild Codex yet, you need to begin post haste. You won’t be disappointed. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this one, the narration was better as well.
Kit grows a ton both in personality and power. Lienna isn't my favourite and I feel like she was missing something in this story. She is so stuck on sticking to the rules while Kit is so not. Causes a bunch of anger and misunderstandings, they weren't on the same page for much of this story.
What I did love was all the moments of Kit and Zak. They are amazing together. I wish we had more of their chemistry. I was also a fan of the cameos of characters from the other series. Particularly the Darius moments again!
Good book, totally worth reading and a fun edition to the Guild Codex world.

[AℳY♔Queen of Fat cats♔Ain't no lie Baby Byebyebye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I luv luv luv!!

Guys!!!There's no point following booktok or bookstagram if you won't get at least a dozen "influencers" recommending Annette Marie sensei series. This is an extension of her already awesometacular previous series and you really want to live in this world. Stop wasting your time on booktube and go and see for yourself what you're missing out!!!
Never heard of Annette Marie sensei? Then you're following the wrong people for sure!!!!!!! If your favorite influencer isn't recommending the most awesomatacular books what's the point of following them? Follow the Kindle recs instead!!

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

"It’s all about appearances , Shakespeare. Scaring the shit out of people is one kind of shield. Acting like a harmless, dimwitted jokester is another."

Well this is my absolute favourite Warped book to date... In fact, it has to be one of my favourite Guild Codex novels to date (although Robin and Zylas still take the cake for me).

In this, the third Warped instalment, Kit and Lienna are working a case off the books that involves a kidnapped teen mythic. I've always loved seeing Kit and Lienna working together but this was even better than before - the partners are forced into difficult situations and are forced to face hard truths about each other, but more importantly, themselves. This is truly a journey of character development but also tempered with Kit's quick wit and movie references as well as a few guest appearances from some familiar characters (for those who have read the other Guild Codex books).

It's no secret that the titular Rogue Ghost is one of my favourite Guild Codex characters, but there were also plenty of other fantastic guest appearances that they also provided some new and intriguing information which has given me a lot to ponder.

What I loved most about this book is the relationships: not romantic relationships, no - romance has taken a back seat in this instalment. It's about the deep and lasting friendships and how they get to that point, the people that meet and work together out of convenience or necessity and it's also about the bromance I never knew I needed so badly. It's about how the interactions with people shape who we are and how they can have a huge impact on the person we grow to become.

The world that Annette Marie has created with The Guild Codex is vast and complex and I have loved seeing a different POV as well as being able to see some of my favourites from another set of eyes. I'm so excited that Annette and Rob have announced that they are also working on books 4 through 6 of this series so that I know we have so much more Kit and Lienna goodness to come!

You don't have to have read any of the other Guild Codex series to be able to pick up Warped but I almost guarantee that once you try any of the series you will be hooked on this world. This Urban Fantasy series has it all - amazing characters you will root for, friendships and relationships you will fall in love with, fantastic world building and intricate plots, action, adventure and humour to make you laugh out loud. I cannot recommend this enough.

[Natalie H · Rating 4 out of 5]

August 2023
Kindle edition

Buddy read with RHR. As soon as I read they were going after Ghost I laughed. Full out oh god I’m embarrassed for them laugh. Compared to the big wigs like Darius and Ghost Kit and Shen are puppies.

Zak and Kit’s relationship is interesting with their nicknames and a sort of friend/mentoring thing going on. Likewise with Darius being clever and then being used as a guinea pig.

There’s the meeting with Robin that crosses over and the intro to Soze. No reality warping this time but Kit experimenting with new things is interesting. After all this he’s going to possibly be a monster. Looking forward to how it plays out.

[Laura ☾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

RTC

[Little Timmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another entertaining read in this multi series storyline. Enjoyable and quick but fun read. Recommended

[Heather-Lin · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the best things in this installment is how much Kit had a man crush (or more?) on our favorite druid, Zak. Other great things: Excellent character development for Kit, I continue to be touched by his tenderness toward his partner, and I'm really intrigued by what plots are afoot in the MPD. What is surprisingly good series!

[Miki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god! i could not imagine how good this book is i mean i love the series , the quality is great but this even reacher a better level than that! it's amazing.
You can read this spin off series without having read the main one guild codex Spellbound and the first spin off demonized but if you have read those this simply make this one get even better when you see how all the events are linked together or seen from different point of view! The continuity is fabulous! I wondered how some charaters met now i have the answers and simply i want to rearead the rest to see what little hints i could have missed that's great!!!

But let's focus on this great story first: There are a lot of action, investigation and suspense but also a good dosis of Humour all wonderfully mixed.
Kit an Lienna are charged to find missing teenagers and other people while staying out of the book per Blythe orders or to be more exact those orders are to apprehend the Ghost, famous rogue, who is behind those kidnapping in Blythe's opinion....

We do see Kit personnality showing more, he is douting his abilities but with Zak's help as well as Lienna's he is starting to get more mature realising that brute force is not his things but he definitively must be taken seriously......he also starts deciding what is better for him and what limites he accepts. We do learn about his past as well or more exactly we see how it is affecting him. I loved his evolution from the beginning of the series but also during this investigation.

Lienna is a good Mdp but too strict in my opinion thankfully we learned the reason for that so we can understand her better but sometimes she simply disappointed me...ZAK oh Zak i absolutely love his his style , he is in gray zone for sure but he does have his own moral and code of honor...can't wait to seem him shake Lienna a bit more
The one i hated and still do is captain Blythe..........really i can't stand her


I really but really love this universes as a whole and this series it deserves to be discovered and i can't recommend it more to urban fantasy lovers it's a real must read

[Emi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Kit’s crush on Zak because… same.

While the Warped storyline isn’t my ultimate favorite (hello there, Demonized—my forever love), Kit himself is hands-down one of my top characters in the whole universe. His humor, his inner monologue, his wit, his pop culture references—his entire personality is everything I’ve been looking for in a MMC. If you’re a Teen Wolf fan, you’ll get me when I say he gives serious Stiles Stilinski energy, and I’m so here for it.

And can we talk about Kit’s relentless, hopeless, borderline feral crush on Zak?! Every time the Crystal Druid showed up, Kit could barely go a sentence without mentioning Zak’s sexy voice, gorgeous eyes, or unfairly good physique. I mean… boy has got it BAD. At this point, I’m honestly shipping Kit and Zak more than Kit and Lienna.

After 15 books in this universe, I am not even a little bit bored. I’m just as obsessed as I was when I started, and I cannot wait to see how all the characters and storylines collide in the next few books!

If you somehow seeing this review first, let me stop you right now—go read The Guild Codex in the author’s recommended order because this entire universe is hilarious, addictive, fast-paced, and so bingeable that you will become obsessed.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best one yet of the series!


For all fans of Annette Marie's magic-filled Vancouver and all the delicious, vibrant, interwoven plot lines - you need this book! Sassy Kit and Straight-Edge Lienna are back at the MPD precinct, solving crimes when they are given a über secret, slightly dodgy assignment (apprehend the Ghost), which quickly takes a darker and more personal turn (save the kidnapped teen). Kit is full throttle with his sarcasm and movie references, but he must face some hard questions and struggle with ethics, morality and free choice, which honestly endeared him even more than before (if possible). I LOVED the interwoven timelines to the other series, as I think Annette Marie has one of the most realistic, expanded magical universes I've ever read. Her magic systems, plots and characters are vibrant and I swear we could be friends. I'm repeatedly disappointed at the end of books that its not actually real, and no, we can't actually get coffee, and probably no magic or druids or demons in Vancouver, and this book was no exception.

And the end - ugh the end - it was great.

Spoilerish:
Not to understate Kit, but, my love for the Ghost overcomes all reason and so any book with him in it is a good book. This one, is again, no exception. Zak is delicious, dark and dreamy. Nom nom.

I'm going to go recover from book and series hang over. Or..... maybe I'll just read Demon codex again. Mmmmm.

[Dragana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adore Guild Codex world, and Kit is my second favorite character from it. But, this book was very confusing because chronologically it happens somewhere between Lost Talismans and a Tequila & Delivering Evil for Experts. Keeping track of what is happening (and what didn't happen yet) was so exhausting.
I wish this series was published in time the previous two, intertwined with them and my poor brain was spared from overworking. :)