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A Winding Wave of Magic
He was fae. I was sure of it. A sorcerer, full of cool, clear-eyed control, looking for a seeress to read thoughts and tell the future. And he was here for me.
Four months from starting a quiet teaching career, Cassandra Whelan receives a message the disrupts everything. Her beloved grandmother has been killed, and she’s given Cassandra the strangest inheritance the family beach house, a centuries-old secret to protect that seems suspiciously like Pandora’s Box, and a coveted position on the council of the the mysterious governing body of the fae world, which Cassandra knows nothing about.
After all, it’s hard to care about your magical powers when they never do anything but misbehave.
Now, to avenge her grandmother and protect a legacy that has cost her family everything, Cassandra must embark on a new kind of one that teaches her how to become the most powerful seer of a generation, even if other fae don’t believe she can do it.
Fae like Jonathan Lynch, an enigmatic (and somewhat grumpy) sorcerer-shifter sent to guide her on her new path.
With every passing day, Cassandra comes closer to full manifestation, when she can take her seat on the council—unless, as she suspects, they are hiding their own terrible secret.
Love, hate, and lies. It seems everyone in the fae world has a hidden agenda—and who better to find the truth than the most clairvoyant seer of a generation?
If, that is, she can finish her training alive.
Addictive and action-packed, A Winding Wave of Magic is a gorgeous, soul-searing, and surprising romantic fantasy!
A note to Parts of this book were previously published under the Nicole Demery as novellas in The Magi Series. While the story is at its heart the same, large portions of the book have been edited, rewritten, and reconfigured. The story also includes an additional 50,000 words that were never published and provides an end to this story. I hope you enjoy it!
Four months from starting a quiet teaching career, Cassandra Whelan receives a message the disrupts everything. Her beloved grandmother has been killed, and she’s given Cassandra the strangest inheritance the family beach house, a centuries-old secret to protect that seems suspiciously like Pandora’s Box, and a coveted position on the council of the the mysterious governing body of the fae world, which Cassandra knows nothing about.
After all, it’s hard to care about your magical powers when they never do anything but misbehave.
Now, to avenge her grandmother and protect a legacy that has cost her family everything, Cassandra must embark on a new kind of one that teaches her how to become the most powerful seer of a generation, even if other fae don’t believe she can do it.
Fae like Jonathan Lynch, an enigmatic (and somewhat grumpy) sorcerer-shifter sent to guide her on her new path.
With every passing day, Cassandra comes closer to full manifestation, when she can take her seat on the council—unless, as she suspects, they are hiding their own terrible secret.
Love, hate, and lies. It seems everyone in the fae world has a hidden agenda—and who better to find the truth than the most clairvoyant seer of a generation?
If, that is, she can finish her training alive.
Addictive and action-packed, A Winding Wave of Magic is a gorgeous, soul-searing, and surprising romantic fantasy!
A note to Parts of this book were previously published under the Nicole Demery as novellas in The Magi Series. While the story is at its heart the same, large portions of the book have been edited, rewritten, and reconfigured. The story also includes an additional 50,000 words that were never published and provides an end to this story. I hope you enjoy it!
604 pages, Paperback
Published April 7, 2025
56 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Nicole French
46 books1,231 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Nicole French is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She's also a hopeless romantic, low key fashion addict, and total bookworm.
Keep up with Nicole French and receive your FREE copy of one of her books when you subscribe to her newsletter: bit.ly/NicoleFrenchNewsletter
When not writing, she is hanging out with her family, playing soccer with the rest of the thirty-plus crowd in Seattle, or going on dates with her husband. In her spare time, she likes to go running or practice the piano, but never seems to do either one of these things as much as she should.
www.nicolefrenchromance.com
Follow her on Facebook for weekly snippets and other news about her newest projects:
www.facebook.com/authornicolefrench
Other social media links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nfrenchauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornicol...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/nfrenchauthor/
Nicole French is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She's also a hopeless romantic, low key fashion addict, and total bookworm.
Keep up with Nicole French and receive your FREE copy of one of her books when you subscribe to her newsletter: bit.ly/NicoleFrenchNewsletter
When not writing, she is hanging out with her family, playing soccer with the rest of the thirty-plus crowd in Seattle, or going on dates with her husband. In her spare time, she likes to go running or practice the piano, but never seems to do either one of these things as much as she should.
www.nicolefrenchromance.com
Follow her on Facebook for weekly snippets and other news about her newest projects:
www.facebook.com/authornicolefrench
Other social media links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nfrenchauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornicol...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/nfrenchauthor/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 21, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily…
Oh my goodness, I wasn’t sure what to expect out of this book, but it was so good. The magic and fantasy world Nicole built was so intricate and detailed. I loved getting to meet different characters and watch Cassandra’s powers and understanding grow through the book. I do love a fated mates trope and it was interesting to see Nicole’s take on how she made it come alive in this book. With the banter and tension between the two characters until the final “ F it” moment. This book is long and at times felt a little slow, but with the world building that was needed it was understandable.
Nicole does mention at the end that she is writing a sequel and I cannot wait for it.
This was a 5⭐️ read for me
Oh my goodness, I wasn’t sure what to expect out of this book, but it was so good. The magic and fantasy world Nicole built was so intricate and detailed. I loved getting to meet different characters and watch Cassandra’s powers and understanding grow through the book. I do love a fated mates trope and it was interesting to see Nicole’s take on how she made it come alive in this book. With the banter and tension between the two characters until the final “ F it” moment. This book is long and at times felt a little slow, but with the world building that was needed it was understandable.
Nicole does mention at the end that she is writing a sequel and I cannot wait for it.
This was a 5⭐️ read for me
April 10, 2025
4.25stars- A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC by Nicole French is a contemporary, adult, paranormal, fantasy romance focusing on twenty-nine year old, Irish Studies PhD student , fae, and clairvoyant Cassandra Whelan and particle physicist / sorcerer /shifter Jonathan Lynch.
NOTE: A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC was originally released as a four-part serial written as Nicole Demery. A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC has been rewritten with added text.
Told from first person perspective (Cassandra) A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC follows in the wake of the death of Cassandra’s grandmother Penny Monroe. Cassandra Whelan is a seer but has yet to come into her full power, and with her grandmother’s death, our heroine is about to discover she is much more than she could have imagined. With the help of sorcerer Jonathan Lynch, Cassandra must traverse a world she knows little about, while struggling to uncover the truth about her grandmother’s death, and the secrets she hid from our story line heroine. Inheriting the Council mantle from her grandmother, Cassandra heads to Ireland for a crash course in wielding her powers against a darkness that is threatening her life.
The world building follows Cassandra Whelan to the birthplace of her ancestors as she struggles to learn what should have been taught since her childhood. Secrets will be revealed, the past will be uncovered, as our heroine must come to terms with her fate and her destiny. Old Celtic lore and Irish mythology are woven throughout the story line.
The relationship between Cassandra and Jonathan is one of immediate attraction but Jonathan is determined to keep his distance, a distance that threatens his need for our story line heroine. The lone $ex scene is passionate but mostly implied.
We are introduced to Cassandra’s mentors Caitlin and Robbie Connolly: Master’s student Aja, Cassandra’s best friend and seer Reina West, as well as the Fae High Council.
A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is detailed, complex and intriguing; the romance is fated and intense; the characters are magical and enchanting. A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC ends on a happily ever after-for now. The author has plans for a sequel.
copy supplied for review
NOTE: A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC was originally released as a four-part serial written as Nicole Demery. A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC has been rewritten with added text.
Told from first person perspective (Cassandra) A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC follows in the wake of the death of Cassandra’s grandmother Penny Monroe. Cassandra Whelan is a seer but has yet to come into her full power, and with her grandmother’s death, our heroine is about to discover she is much more than she could have imagined. With the help of sorcerer Jonathan Lynch, Cassandra must traverse a world she knows little about, while struggling to uncover the truth about her grandmother’s death, and the secrets she hid from our story line heroine. Inheriting the Council mantle from her grandmother, Cassandra heads to Ireland for a crash course in wielding her powers against a darkness that is threatening her life.
The world building follows Cassandra Whelan to the birthplace of her ancestors as she struggles to learn what should have been taught since her childhood. Secrets will be revealed, the past will be uncovered, as our heroine must come to terms with her fate and her destiny. Old Celtic lore and Irish mythology are woven throughout the story line.
The relationship between Cassandra and Jonathan is one of immediate attraction but Jonathan is determined to keep his distance, a distance that threatens his need for our story line heroine. The lone $ex scene is passionate but mostly implied.
We are introduced to Cassandra’s mentors Caitlin and Robbie Connolly: Master’s student Aja, Cassandra’s best friend and seer Reina West, as well as the Fae High Council.
A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is detailed, complex and intriguing; the romance is fated and intense; the characters are magical and enchanting. A WINDING WAVE OF MAGIC ends on a happily ever after-for now. The author has plans for a sequel.
copy supplied for review
May 29, 2025
# Tides of Power and Heart: My Thoughts on *A Winding Wave of Magic*
Thank you to BookSirens for providing this e-book and the opportunity to read and review it.
## A Winding Wave of Magic by Nicole French
Cassandra Whelan is so close to starting her teaching career when a message interrupts everything. Her grandmother, Penny, died. Penny gave Cassandra the family beach house, centuries-old secrets to protect, and a coveted position on a council. However, Cassandra knows nothing about these items nor the depths of the governing fae world.
Cassandra is fae—a Seer to be exact—yet her powers do not align with her. Constantly misbehaving, this news causes her to jump into freezing bodies of water. Jonathan Lynch, a sorcerer-shifter, saves this girl too many times to count. He slowly creeps into her world, as it was Penny’s final wishes for him to guide her.
Cassandra needs to embark on a journey to avenge her grandmother. Through this, she must learn for become the most powerful Seer of a generation. Each day brings her closer to manifestation and taking her seat at the council, bringing her closer to their secrets.
Spoilers follow! Continue reading if you don’t mind a few plot reveals.
I really loved reading this. When I picked it up, I expected a light, maybe even silly fantasy—but what I got was a richly detailed story with an incredibly crafted world. The beginning pulled me in right away and actually helped pull me out of a reading slump.
Cassandra’s journey, navigating life without her grandmother while uncovering the secrets of the fae world, kept me hooked. Despite the magic, the characters felt genuinely real and grounded. The story constantly amazed me, even if there were a few predictable moments.
Rating: 4 / 5
Thank you to BookSirens for providing this e-book and the opportunity to read and review it.
## A Winding Wave of Magic by Nicole French
Cassandra Whelan is so close to starting her teaching career when a message interrupts everything. Her grandmother, Penny, died. Penny gave Cassandra the family beach house, centuries-old secrets to protect, and a coveted position on a council. However, Cassandra knows nothing about these items nor the depths of the governing fae world.
Cassandra is fae—a Seer to be exact—yet her powers do not align with her. Constantly misbehaving, this news causes her to jump into freezing bodies of water. Jonathan Lynch, a sorcerer-shifter, saves this girl too many times to count. He slowly creeps into her world, as it was Penny’s final wishes for him to guide her.
Cassandra needs to embark on a journey to avenge her grandmother. Through this, she must learn for become the most powerful Seer of a generation. Each day brings her closer to manifestation and taking her seat at the council, bringing her closer to their secrets.
Spoilers follow! Continue reading if you don’t mind a few plot reveals.
I really loved reading this. When I picked it up, I expected a light, maybe even silly fantasy—but what I got was a richly detailed story with an incredibly crafted world. The beginning pulled me in right away and actually helped pull me out of a reading slump.
Cassandra’s journey, navigating life without her grandmother while uncovering the secrets of the fae world, kept me hooked. Despite the magic, the characters felt genuinely real and grounded. The story constantly amazed me, even if there were a few predictable moments.
Rating: 4 / 5
April 13, 2025
I recently finished reading A Winding Wave of Magic by Nicole French, and I found it to be an epic and addictive age-gap, accidental fated-mates romance. The story follows Cassandra Whelan and her journey with a brooding, powerful mate, weaving a complex narrative of secrets, lies, betrayal, and vengeance.
One of the standout features of A Winding Wave of Magic is its intricate premise, which delves into themes of power, control, family, and relationships. The magical elements are enchanting, and the romance is intense and fated, making it easy to become invested in the characters' lives. French does an excellent job of crafting a world that is both mystical and captivating.
The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as they explore the intricate relationships and secrets that unfold. However, some readers might find that certain plot points feel slightly predictable or that the pacing could be more consistent.
Overall, A Winding Wave of Magic is a solid four-star read for fans of fantasy romance and those who enjoy age-gap and fated-mates tropes. It’s a great addition to Nicole French’s repertoire, offering a mix of magic, intensity, and heartfelt moments that will keep readers hooked until the very end. If you're looking for a romance with a dash of fantasy and a strong focus on complex relationships, this book is definitely worth checking out!
One of the standout features of A Winding Wave of Magic is its intricate premise, which delves into themes of power, control, family, and relationships. The magical elements are enchanting, and the romance is intense and fated, making it easy to become invested in the characters' lives. French does an excellent job of crafting a world that is both mystical and captivating.
The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as they explore the intricate relationships and secrets that unfold. However, some readers might find that certain plot points feel slightly predictable or that the pacing could be more consistent.
Overall, A Winding Wave of Magic is a solid four-star read for fans of fantasy romance and those who enjoy age-gap and fated-mates tropes. It’s a great addition to Nicole French’s repertoire, offering a mix of magic, intensity, and heartfelt moments that will keep readers hooked until the very end. If you're looking for a romance with a dash of fantasy and a strong focus on complex relationships, this book is definitely worth checking out!
May 2, 2025
This book is long and impressive. The author wrote such a complex story of magic, so very perfectly crafted that I even began to believe it. I was taken on a trip to a magic world where the fae are fighting to be seen, there’s politics involved, mystery, and murder. And above all, an exquisite love story, of the slow burn, strong hot chemistry, and forbidden type too! The age cap with this couple is out of this world!
Cassandra is a socially inept witch who doesn’t have control of her powers, Jonathan is a lawyer/sorcerer who is in charge of her recently murdered grandmother’s will, leaving her in charge of a secret and due to inherit a position in a council of mage. They have to act with utmost care and precaution because Cassandra hasn’t come into all of her powers yet. Jonathan has promised to help and protect her, but there are secrets she hasn’t learned yet. And secrets are Jonathan’s trade!
We are taken on an adventure of discovery, of magic tricks, and personal tricks. There’s darkness following them but also friends who teach and help. The story is very convoluted, But surprisingly easy to understand and follow, so impeccable is the author’s writing and the world she has developed for us readers.
The story ends in a sort of happy ending but also a soft cliffhanger. You can choose to stop here or to continue to the next book whenever it comes out. I can guarantee I will be waiting anxiously to dive into this fantastic, magical world again!
Cassandra is a socially inept witch who doesn’t have control of her powers, Jonathan is a lawyer/sorcerer who is in charge of her recently murdered grandmother’s will, leaving her in charge of a secret and due to inherit a position in a council of mage. They have to act with utmost care and precaution because Cassandra hasn’t come into all of her powers yet. Jonathan has promised to help and protect her, but there are secrets she hasn’t learned yet. And secrets are Jonathan’s trade!
We are taken on an adventure of discovery, of magic tricks, and personal tricks. There’s darkness following them but also friends who teach and help. The story is very convoluted, But surprisingly easy to understand and follow, so impeccable is the author’s writing and the world she has developed for us readers.
The story ends in a sort of happy ending but also a soft cliffhanger. You can choose to stop here or to continue to the next book whenever it comes out. I can guarantee I will be waiting anxiously to dive into this fantastic, magical world again!
May 12, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book from BookSirens.
The story started off strong, and I genuinely appreciated the rich inclusion of Irish lit and folklore. It added a unique layer to the world-building, making the early chapters engaging. However, as the plot progressed, it started to feel like I was sitting in on a history lecture alongside Cass. I found myself wanting to focus more on the main storyline rather than constantly absorbing dense lore.
Jonathan’s character left me conflicted. At first, he seemed detached, almost disinterested, yet suddenly his desire for Cass intensified. I’m all for a slow burn, but his emotional whiplash made the romance feel more like a game than a genuine connection, which took away some of the magic for me.
Cass, on the other hand, was wonderfully headstrong—a trait I loved. But for someone so sharp, she often missed glaringly obvious clues, which felt a bit out of character and occasionally frustrating.
For me, this would have been a five-star read if the story hadn’t lost its momentum around the 65% mark, and if the characters had been a bit more emotionally consistent. The ending also threw me off; their sudden, time-altering intimacy felt a bit too far-fetched, even within a magical context.
Overall, it’s clear the author has a strong voice and a knack for atmospheric writing. But the heavy-handed lore, uneven pacing, and mixed character motivations held this one back for me.
The story started off strong, and I genuinely appreciated the rich inclusion of Irish lit and folklore. It added a unique layer to the world-building, making the early chapters engaging. However, as the plot progressed, it started to feel like I was sitting in on a history lecture alongside Cass. I found myself wanting to focus more on the main storyline rather than constantly absorbing dense lore.
Jonathan’s character left me conflicted. At first, he seemed detached, almost disinterested, yet suddenly his desire for Cass intensified. I’m all for a slow burn, but his emotional whiplash made the romance feel more like a game than a genuine connection, which took away some of the magic for me.
Cass, on the other hand, was wonderfully headstrong—a trait I loved. But for someone so sharp, she often missed glaringly obvious clues, which felt a bit out of character and occasionally frustrating.
For me, this would have been a five-star read if the story hadn’t lost its momentum around the 65% mark, and if the characters had been a bit more emotionally consistent. The ending also threw me off; their sudden, time-altering intimacy felt a bit too far-fetched, even within a magical context.
Overall, it’s clear the author has a strong voice and a knack for atmospheric writing. But the heavy-handed lore, uneven pacing, and mixed character motivations held this one back for me.
April 22, 2025
“For the record, I couldn’t care less if you were fifty or five hundred. Especially when you can kiss like that.”
I enjoyed reeding a free copy thanks to BookSirens, and I am gladly sharing this review, with hope the book will find its audience.
Cassandra, a PhD candidate of Irish studies with fae blood, social anxiety caused by her gift, and life-changing secret in her path, tells her story of unearthing the family legacy, the depth of her own magical powers as well as the complexity of her emotional relationships, especially to Johnathan - a sorcerer / shifter physicist doubling in law, with bight green eyes and broody allure.
A Winding Wave of Magic is not a fast-paced, action driven novel, instead, a reader can live through the journey of discovery with Cassie and savor the gradual progression of the literary scenery from an urban fantasy setting (mystical elements in every-day life), to a full magical immersion glimmering with old Irish and Celtic lore as the story goes along.
I would absolutely recommend this book to readers of Deborah Harkness’ All Souls trilogy and Adrienne Young’s work. The dynamic of Cassandra/Johnathan bears similarities to Diana/Matthew, the overall mood of the book hits just the spot of Young’s novels, all the while brining more lightness to the narrative with its own particular world building and intricate writing.
I enjoyed reeding a free copy thanks to BookSirens, and I am gladly sharing this review, with hope the book will find its audience.
Cassandra, a PhD candidate of Irish studies with fae blood, social anxiety caused by her gift, and life-changing secret in her path, tells her story of unearthing the family legacy, the depth of her own magical powers as well as the complexity of her emotional relationships, especially to Johnathan - a sorcerer / shifter physicist doubling in law, with bight green eyes and broody allure.
A Winding Wave of Magic is not a fast-paced, action driven novel, instead, a reader can live through the journey of discovery with Cassie and savor the gradual progression of the literary scenery from an urban fantasy setting (mystical elements in every-day life), to a full magical immersion glimmering with old Irish and Celtic lore as the story goes along.
I would absolutely recommend this book to readers of Deborah Harkness’ All Souls trilogy and Adrienne Young’s work. The dynamic of Cassandra/Johnathan bears similarities to Diana/Matthew, the overall mood of the book hits just the spot of Young’s novels, all the while brining more lightness to the narrative with its own particular world building and intricate writing.
April 11, 2025
This big beautiful book is full of a new world that is sure to have you gasping and falling in love with the mystical.
Cassandra and Jonathan set out together to find answers to what is taking place in their world. They have to seek with caution because Jonathan knows what they are up against and as they seek the truth they discover more questions. Each discovery shows Cass that she needs to tap into a magic that she’s never fully accepted because she might be the key to it all.
Nicole carefully crafted a world of magic with this book. You can feel the love of the mystic in each page and I loved that there are notes of the familiar but that she is introducing us to a brand new world of Irish and Celtic folklore. There are so many amazing and hilarious characters that aid Cass and Jonathan and the ending has me on the edge because I feel we’ve only just started to uncover what lies in wait in the shadows!
If you love romance and fantasy this is a story you’re going to want to get your hands on!
Cassandra and Jonathan set out together to find answers to what is taking place in their world. They have to seek with caution because Jonathan knows what they are up against and as they seek the truth they discover more questions. Each discovery shows Cass that she needs to tap into a magic that she’s never fully accepted because she might be the key to it all.
Nicole carefully crafted a world of magic with this book. You can feel the love of the mystic in each page and I loved that there are notes of the familiar but that she is introducing us to a brand new world of Irish and Celtic folklore. There are so many amazing and hilarious characters that aid Cass and Jonathan and the ending has me on the edge because I feel we’ve only just started to uncover what lies in wait in the shadows!
If you love romance and fantasy this is a story you’re going to want to get your hands on!
April 13, 2025
4 and 1/2 stars
I had been waiting a long time to see the ending of Cassandra's tale. I loved reading the story first through the Magi Series and here with its rewrites. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Cass and Jonathan again. The story maintained that magical element that first drew me to the series. I won't say too much because it is a wild ride and spoilers ruin it for everyone but boy are there some surprises.
Well written and an intriguing plot, Winding Wave of Magic is a wonderful story. The twists and turns keep you in suspense and the characters are likeable which makes you invested in the tale. And it looks like we might be visiting this world again too...
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I had been waiting a long time to see the ending of Cassandra's tale. I loved reading the story first through the Magi Series and here with its rewrites. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Cass and Jonathan again. The story maintained that magical element that first drew me to the series. I won't say too much because it is a wild ride and spoilers ruin it for everyone but boy are there some surprises.
Well written and an intriguing plot, Winding Wave of Magic is a wonderful story. The twists and turns keep you in suspense and the characters are likeable which makes you invested in the tale. And it looks like we might be visiting this world again too...
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April 24, 2025
This book was so, so good! I wasn’t sure what to expect because this isn’t Nicole’s usual genre but I was blown away with the world building and detail of this story. I’m not sure what specific genre to fit this in- it straddles urban fantasy, PNR and romantasy. Some great tropes that always grab my attention include enemies to lovers, Star crossed lovers and fated mates. There is also a type of chosen one trope as well. The depth of research and attention to detail that the author put into this story is obvious with the amount of Irish lore and history in the world building. The characters are all well developed and the chemistry between Jonathan and Cassandra are off the charts. This is a slow burn but worth the wait. This is a big book- I know for some that can be intimidating but the story is well paced. I think it’s a preference thing- this book could have easily been broken up into 2 books but I’ve always loved big books. This ends on a soft cliffhanger which means there is plenty more to look forward to and I can’t wait to read what happens next.
May 19, 2025
I loved this book! It was so interesting to read a fantasy that's in the modern day but truly embraces history, especially a history that I feel doesn't always get the attention it deserves. I love that it brought in Celtic mythology and the stories of Ireland while also give a nod to so many incredible cultures and mythologies.
Now the characters: our FL, Cass, I first thought was a little annoying (but I realised that was because I can relate a little to well to her) and by the end I truly loved her; she is strong, stubborn and caring, and I loved that she was flawed. Our ML, Jonathan: I think I loved him from the beginning. Smart and mysterious but so obviously pinning for our FL. I liked how he respected her.
The story itself was very interesting and I really enjoyed this hidden world within our own. I am looking forward to reading the sequel when it comes out one day.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Now the characters: our FL, Cass, I first thought was a little annoying (but I realised that was because I can relate a little to well to her) and by the end I truly loved her; she is strong, stubborn and caring, and I loved that she was flawed. Our ML, Jonathan: I think I loved him from the beginning. Smart and mysterious but so obviously pinning for our FL. I liked how he respected her.
The story itself was very interesting and I really enjoyed this hidden world within our own. I am looking forward to reading the sequel when it comes out one day.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 10, 2025
A story as old as time, someone wants the secrets and power that are connected to Pandora's Box. Cassandra, a seer is the new guardian of the Secret upon the death of her beloved grandmother. Cass is aware she is a seer but is untrained and ill prepared to protect her grandmother's secret. Jonathan, a sorcerer and her grandmother's attorney appear to help guide Cass in her new role as a future council member.
This is a story that is storied in histories and deceptions. As Jonathan, along with her grandmother's trusted friends harbor and help to train Cass, a predator aims to learn all her secrets.
Buckle up for one heck of a wild ride. This story will take you on a winding journey for truth with a lot of fate wrapped in. You will meet a myriad of characters that all play a part in Cassandra's development and her future. This is a lot of book, so take your time and don't rush.
This is a story that is storied in histories and deceptions. As Jonathan, along with her grandmother's trusted friends harbor and help to train Cass, a predator aims to learn all her secrets.
Buckle up for one heck of a wild ride. This story will take you on a winding journey for truth with a lot of fate wrapped in. You will meet a myriad of characters that all play a part in Cassandra's development and her future. This is a lot of book, so take your time and don't rush.
April 20, 2025
"A story as old as time, someone wants the secrets and power that are connected to Pandora's Box. Cassandra, a seer is the new guardian of the Secret upon the death of her beloved grandmother. Cass is aware she is a seer but is untrained and ill prepared to protect her grandmother's secret. Jonathan, a sorcerer and her grandmother's attorney appear to help guide Cass in her new role as a future council member.
This is a story that is storied in histories and deceptions. As Jonathan, along with her grandmother's trusted friends harbor and help to train Cass, a predator aims to learn all her secrets.
Buckle up for one heck of a wild ride. This story will take you on a winding journey for truth with a lot of fate wrapped in. You will meet a myriad of characters that all play a part in Cassandra's development and her future. This is a lot of book, so take your time and don't rush. "
This is a story that is storied in histories and deceptions. As Jonathan, along with her grandmother's trusted friends harbor and help to train Cass, a predator aims to learn all her secrets.
Buckle up for one heck of a wild ride. This story will take you on a winding journey for truth with a lot of fate wrapped in. You will meet a myriad of characters that all play a part in Cassandra's development and her future. This is a lot of book, so take your time and don't rush. "
May 12, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is a well written book with so much folk lore it is delightful to read. I love the world building with the mix of fairy tale and modern world. Slow burn romances are my favorite this author did a wonderful job of making me really like Jonathan. Where I had a bit of difficulty as the story progressed
was Cassandra. It became a bit difficult at times for me to like her, let alone want her and Jonathan to get together. She came off immature at times and just rude. As the story continue her immaturity was less of an issue, but it took most of the book for me to like her. Johathan is much older, so I had a hard time wondering why he would be interested in her. Other than me being irritated with the main character I did enjoy the book.
was Cassandra. It became a bit difficult at times for me to like her, let alone want her and Jonathan to get together. She came off immature at times and just rude. As the story continue her immaturity was less of an issue, but it took most of the book for me to like her. Johathan is much older, so I had a hard time wondering why he would be interested in her. Other than me being irritated with the main character I did enjoy the book.
May 23, 2025
A Winding Wave of Magic is an immersive and epic fae fantasy that is steeped in ample Irish lore. While I quite enjoyed the story and the slow burn romance between the lead chacters, I was pulled out of the story a little too often by Cassandra's naivety when she spent 10 years getting a PhD in Celtic studies. It would seem she would be better able to read the room with or without her seer abilities.
The story is long and meanders quite a bit, but overall is worth the time living in the world that the author created. I look forward to future titles in this series and would encourage the author to continue tightening up the story a bit more, since I found it dragged some in the middle sections, before picking up the pace in the last 15% of the book.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I’m leaving this honest review voluntarily.
The story is long and meanders quite a bit, but overall is worth the time living in the world that the author created. I look forward to future titles in this series and would encourage the author to continue tightening up the story a bit more, since I found it dragged some in the middle sections, before picking up the pace in the last 15% of the book.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I’m leaving this honest review voluntarily.
April 11, 2025
I don't think I can quite convey my excitement when I saw this book was coming out. I had read all the novellas written under Nicole Demery and absolutely loved them. When the conclusion for those novellas never came, I just kept hoping that one day we'd be lucky enough to get it, and now we have it! This story was incredible! I already loved Cass and Jonathan, and this story just cemented that feeling. The way their relationship forms and builds. Everything Cass goes through. This was beautifully written and gave me the same emotions as the novellas did. If you had previously read The Magi series, then you're in for a treat, and if you haven't, then be ready for a whirlwind story that will keep you completely enthralled until the very end. I absolutely loved every moment of this story!
April 12, 2025
The passing of Cassandra’s grandmother sends her on a path to fulfill her life’s calling in ways she never saw coming. Jonathan has come into her life to help her achieve her full potential both when it comes to the course she must follow and the special skills she holds.
Jonathan has an assignment to complete which means guiding Cassandra on the course she must follow however the feelings he has for her were not part of the plan. She completed him in a way he never expected or wanted but now he must help her uncover the truth while also keeping her safe.
Cassandra and Jonathan’s story is a unique and intriguing story. Secrets, suspense and surprises all combine into a captivating tale that you won’t be able to put down.
Jonathan has an assignment to complete which means guiding Cassandra on the course she must follow however the feelings he has for her were not part of the plan. She completed him in a way he never expected or wanted but now he must help her uncover the truth while also keeping her safe.
Cassandra and Jonathan’s story is a unique and intriguing story. Secrets, suspense and surprises all combine into a captivating tale that you won’t be able to put down.
May 1, 2025
wonderful surprise
I have read most of Nicole’s romance books and enjoyed them all. When I saw this book pop up on my recommended reading, I hesitated. A fantasy? I was sure.
I am so glad I took a chance and read it. Cassandra is so relatable, not her magic, but how she feels like the odd duck. She is a PhD candidate just trying to get her dissertation done. She doesn’t know her strengths and powers until tragedy strikes.
Jonathan, the sorcerer, mysteriously comes into her life soon after she loses her beloved grandmother. The two leave on a quest to fulfill her grandmother’s final wishes.
There is so much wonderful history intertwined with the magic. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I have read most of Nicole’s romance books and enjoyed them all. When I saw this book pop up on my recommended reading, I hesitated. A fantasy? I was sure.
I am so glad I took a chance and read it. Cassandra is so relatable, not her magic, but how she feels like the odd duck. She is a PhD candidate just trying to get her dissertation done. She doesn’t know her strengths and powers until tragedy strikes.
Jonathan, the sorcerer, mysteriously comes into her life soon after she loses her beloved grandmother. The two leave on a quest to fulfill her grandmother’s final wishes.
There is so much wonderful history intertwined with the magic. I can’t wait to read the next book!
April 15, 2025
This story has been a wonderful journey and just continues to leave me speechless. The world building skills are as magical as the characters the author has created to live in them.
The magic in their lives grows as each character learns more about themselves in every sense and you can't help but feel invested. Cassandra Whelan has neglected the education need to aid her witch side. Johnathan Lynch scientist and also Lawyer, Cass's Grandmothers lawyer infact.
It is Gran who puts these two on their path, as long as they chose to remain on it. After all the chose is theirs.
I can not say enough good things about this book. The imagery and descriptions leap off the page. The emotions and feelings are real and raw as if you to can touch the water.
If you read the first set of books and enjoyed them you will absolutely want to treat yourself to this book. It's the first version with a million dollar makeover, and it's beautiful!
I have voluntarily left this review.
The magic in their lives grows as each character learns more about themselves in every sense and you can't help but feel invested. Cassandra Whelan has neglected the education need to aid her witch side. Johnathan Lynch scientist and also Lawyer, Cass's Grandmothers lawyer infact.
It is Gran who puts these two on their path, as long as they chose to remain on it. After all the chose is theirs.
I can not say enough good things about this book. The imagery and descriptions leap off the page. The emotions and feelings are real and raw as if you to can touch the water.
If you read the first set of books and enjoyed them you will absolutely want to treat yourself to this book. It's the first version with a million dollar makeover, and it's beautiful!
I have voluntarily left this review.
April 15, 2025
A Winding Wave of Magic brings the story of Cassandra, and her journey to discover her true self and her powers.
The book is big, it starts a bit slow with the back story and introduces some important characters in Cassandra's life. Jonathan is her companion but little do we know the power of their relationship.
You get suspense, butterflies in your tummy, frustrating feelings at times and a constant craving for more in my personal experience.
I cannot wait for the second book. I love Nicole writing, she has a special power to hook you in on her stories. Thank you for letting me read it in advance.
The book is big, it starts a bit slow with the back story and introduces some important characters in Cassandra's life. Jonathan is her companion but little do we know the power of their relationship.
You get suspense, butterflies in your tummy, frustrating feelings at times and a constant craving for more in my personal experience.
I cannot wait for the second book. I love Nicole writing, she has a special power to hook you in on her stories. Thank you for letting me read it in advance.
April 21, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really liked this book. It kind of reminded me of A Discovery of Witches in terms with the magical world that Cassandra knows about but needs to learn more about. The learning as she learned worked quite well - it didn't read as though we were being told about the world or as though Cassandra knew nothing and needed to be told all the things.
It's a slow burn but that works well for the story - the love story doesn't take over the book and the story stands strongly in its own.
This quickly became a book that I couldn't put down!
I really liked this book. It kind of reminded me of A Discovery of Witches in terms with the magical world that Cassandra knows about but needs to learn more about. The learning as she learned worked quite well - it didn't read as though we were being told about the world or as though Cassandra knew nothing and needed to be told all the things.
It's a slow burn but that works well for the story - the love story doesn't take over the book and the story stands strongly in its own.
This quickly became a book that I couldn't put down!
May 6, 2025
A slowburn romantacy with many twists and turns. 3,5⭐️
The writing on this book was very pleasant to read, while there was lots of Irish in there and thus the pronunciation was a bit of a pickle for me, the pace was good and the storyline flowed easily.
While I liked the overall storyline well enough, the story just missed a bit of action and spice for my personal preference. The slowburn is slowly burning, while the connection is visible from pretty much the first meet of our MC'S. Also, a lot happens, but there isn't real "action" like I expected of a magical fae story. Not to say that this is a bad thing, because while there weren't many real fights, there are lots of struggles within the lives of the characters. But I guess in more of a human way than in the typical fae way.
To conclude, I think this is a really good ramantacy for readers who like to relate to the mc's in a non-magical way. ;) And I would like to thank Nicole for this ARC opportunity!
The writing on this book was very pleasant to read, while there was lots of Irish in there and thus the pronunciation was a bit of a pickle for me, the pace was good and the storyline flowed easily.
While I liked the overall storyline well enough, the story just missed a bit of action and spice for my personal preference. The slowburn is slowly burning, while the connection is visible from pretty much the first meet of our MC'S. Also, a lot happens, but there isn't real "action" like I expected of a magical fae story. Not to say that this is a bad thing, because while there weren't many real fights, there are lots of struggles within the lives of the characters. But I guess in more of a human way than in the typical fae way.
To conclude, I think this is a really good ramantacy for readers who like to relate to the mc's in a non-magical way. ;) And I would like to thank Nicole for this ARC opportunity!
May 4, 2025
This book had me in an absolute choke hold while I was reading, a slow burn romance , need I say more?! I loved the combination of Celtic/Fae lore which was and still is a huge part of my core as a human being. I loved the combination of modern world/familiar locations mixed in with the fantastical.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Why not 5 stars?
I downloaded the mobile pdf and I did notice there were a scattering of typos, wrongly capitalized words (besides relating to words as verbs), and incorrect word spacing . While this did not take away from the reading experience, it gave me a quick second of pause to go back and reread.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Why not 5 stars?
I downloaded the mobile pdf and I did notice there were a scattering of typos, wrongly capitalized words (besides relating to words as verbs), and incorrect word spacing . While this did not take away from the reading experience, it gave me a quick second of pause to go back and reread.
May 19, 2025
Very intriguing fantasy romance, intertwining some gorgeous descriptive language with some amazing historical references.
It took me a little while to settle into it but I'm glad I stuck with it.
The love story between Cassandra and Jonathan crept up on me, until I was fully invested in their journey.
I'll admit to skipping over some of the pronunciations and more detailed historical elements, mainly because I was hooked on the character interactions and the magical aspects. My apologies to the author for this.
Definitely worth a read.
It took me a little while to settle into it but I'm glad I stuck with it.
The love story between Cassandra and Jonathan crept up on me, until I was fully invested in their journey.
I'll admit to skipping over some of the pronunciations and more detailed historical elements, mainly because I was hooked on the character interactions and the magical aspects. My apologies to the author for this.
Definitely worth a read.
June 1, 2025
Cassandra & Jonathan
This is certainly a unique romantic urban fantasy, that pulled me along for the adventure that this amazing story entailed! Cassandra is an untrained seer and Johnathan is a sorcerer, and they work great as a team and a couple. There is so much going on in this story, That I did not want to put it down. The side characters are great as well! I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is certainly a unique romantic urban fantasy, that pulled me along for the adventure that this amazing story entailed! Cassandra is an untrained seer and Johnathan is a sorcerer, and they work great as a team and a couple. There is so much going on in this story, That I did not want to put it down. The side characters are great as well! I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2025
What a GREAT STORY!!!!!
He really doesn’t want to babysit her. But he is physically attracted to her, but he can’t let that happen. Cassandra is a witch that has been taught nothing. She is considered at wallflowers with no people skills. But she kind of has some feelings for him, but keeps denying it. I love this story: Magic, supernatural creatures, secrets, age gap, danger, murder and so much more. If you like supernatural things you will LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!!
He really doesn’t want to babysit her. But he is physically attracted to her, but he can’t let that happen. Cassandra is a witch that has been taught nothing. She is considered at wallflowers with no people skills. But she kind of has some feelings for him, but keeps denying it. I love this story: Magic, supernatural creatures, secrets, age gap, danger, murder and so much more. If you like supernatural things you will LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!!
April 19, 2025
Epic 5 star Fantasy!
Brilliantly crafted Epic Fantasy by Nicole French a one click author for me.
A beautiful love story intricately and beautifully written in a style that I’ve come to expect with Nicole French’s books.
She keeps me engaged and enthralled with the story, the characters where fabulous!
But is it Fantasy… ?
Brilliantly crafted Epic Fantasy by Nicole French a one click author for me.
A beautiful love story intricately and beautifully written in a style that I’ve come to expect with Nicole French’s books.
She keeps me engaged and enthralled with the story, the characters where fabulous!
But is it Fantasy… ?
June 14, 2025
Where do I even begin this book was good but not one of my favorites. It had a great story line but it seemed to have focus more on the history than the story of Cass. I love the concept and can’t wait for the second book since this one ended the way it did. Over all a good read just not my thing.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 13, 2025
This was fabulous, from start until the last word. Cassandra and Jonathan told us a magical story and I loved watching it unfold. There were so much secrets, craziness and attraction.... It will have flipping pages as fast as you can.
May 7, 2025
So this is my first time reading a book by this author but let me tell you the way the magically weave you into the story I could not put it down. I love a pnr love story. Had me devouring it!!- Tasha
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