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The Mythean Arcana #4
Stolen Fate
Fiona Blackwood is losing her mind
Fiona is an Acquirer, an immortal who uses magic to hunt for ancient artifacts. Ever since she failed to live up to her fate and find the Book of Worlds, she’s been shunned by those around her. Worse, she’s slowly losing her mind as her subconscious keeps trying to accomplish her fated task. When she’s presented with one last chance to find the Book of Worlds and thus save her sanity, she’ll stop at nothing to accomplish her goal.
Ian MacKenzie has been in hell
For more than one hundred years, Ian has been locked in a nightmarish prison. An accomplished thief, he was thrown into hell for failing to maintain the secrecy of his magical race. When Fiona presents him with an opportunity for escape, he’ll do anything it takes to ensure that it’s permanent, even if it means betraying the woman he’s grown to care for.
A dark force could tear them apart
As Fiona and Ian get closer to finding the book, they learn that there’s more at stake than they ever imagined – like the fate of the world. When their task threatens to tear them apart, they’ll have to make the ultimate decision: life, or love?
Fiona is an Acquirer, an immortal who uses magic to hunt for ancient artifacts. Ever since she failed to live up to her fate and find the Book of Worlds, she’s been shunned by those around her. Worse, she’s slowly losing her mind as her subconscious keeps trying to accomplish her fated task. When she’s presented with one last chance to find the Book of Worlds and thus save her sanity, she’ll stop at nothing to accomplish her goal.
Ian MacKenzie has been in hell
For more than one hundred years, Ian has been locked in a nightmarish prison. An accomplished thief, he was thrown into hell for failing to maintain the secrecy of his magical race. When Fiona presents him with an opportunity for escape, he’ll do anything it takes to ensure that it’s permanent, even if it means betraying the woman he’s grown to care for.
A dark force could tear them apart
As Fiona and Ian get closer to finding the book, they learn that there’s more at stake than they ever imagined – like the fate of the world. When their task threatens to tear them apart, they’ll have to make the ultimate decision: life, or love?
135 pages, ebook
First published December 8, 2014
394 people are currently reading
504 people want to read
About the author
Linsey Hall
108 books4,386 followersFollow me!
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Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
For giveaways, contests and book discussion join my Facebook group
here!
Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
March 4, 2015
I'm really enjoying this series with it's unique spin on Gods, Magic and Demons so I was a little disappointed that this was quite a short addition. That having being said the action starts very quickly as the main characters are introduced and right from the start the plot had me gripped. Ian is a man with special talents that unfortunately have led to him bring imprisoned but Fiona has a use for Ian and breaks him out of prison. Fiona is destined to live up to her fate and find the missing Book of Worlds but so far she has drawn a huge blank and her subconscious is slowly taking over and stealing her sanity. She has found Ian a thief with the ability to get through magical enchantments but has no idea the secrets that Ian hides. Fiona needs to find the missing book to hang on to her sanity but it's soon apparent that more is at play and they are not alone in hunting for the Book of Worlds . Can Fiona and Ian find it before unseen forces threaten the fate of the world?
Ok so this is quite a quick read but right from the opening scenes it's quite a steamy read with Ian ( who has been imprisoned for over a hundred years ) very attracted to Fiona but it's a romance that for some reason worked and I loved discovering just who he was friendly with. It is quite fast paced which meant never a dull moment and both these central characters are likeable. I enjoyed the storyline as it felt fresh reading about the old Gods and their need to have followers. As usual the author imbues her work with heat but for this reader it's all the magical aspects that stand out. I'm really enjoying the world building and it's great to see Edinburgh used as a back drop for this series. I'd recommend this to lovers of paranormal romance particularly if looking for something completely different to the usual vampire/ shifter type stories.
I was gifted a copy of this in exchange for an honest review
Ok so this is quite a quick read but right from the opening scenes it's quite a steamy read with Ian ( who has been imprisoned for over a hundred years ) very attracted to Fiona but it's a romance that for some reason worked and I loved discovering just who he was friendly with. It is quite fast paced which meant never a dull moment and both these central characters are likeable. I enjoyed the storyline as it felt fresh reading about the old Gods and their need to have followers. As usual the author imbues her work with heat but for this reader it's all the magical aspects that stand out. I'm really enjoying the world building and it's great to see Edinburgh used as a back drop for this series. I'd recommend this to lovers of paranormal romance particularly if looking for something completely different to the usual vampire/ shifter type stories.
I was gifted a copy of this in exchange for an honest review
July 8, 2022
I've been reading through the boxset and this was one up next. Kind of a 3.5 for me, and I'm still undecided whether I should round up or down.
I don't really think the gravity of this mission was ever really put across well, and the university bureaucracy in the situation really doesn't make any sense. I still don't fully follow the whole fated thing (how can it literally not happen if it's fate and she's actively trying to follow it?) and a whole host of other questions, and the end is a little dicey, but it was a great adventure, and those two MC had some explosive chemistry.
I don't really think the gravity of this mission was ever really put across well, and the university bureaucracy in the situation really doesn't make any sense. I still don't fully follow the whole fated thing (how can it literally not happen if it's fate and she's actively trying to follow it?) and a whole host of other questions, and the end is a little dicey, but it was a great adventure, and those two MC had some explosive chemistry.
May 30, 2015
Well, well, well. Fourth book in the series, and my fangirlism over the Mytheans is still going strong.
I don't have much to say about the book, other than the fact it really rocked my world - like the rest of the series, of course. The romance was perfect, with tons of action and well-placed drama, and just the right dose of heat. I adored Fiona from the previous book anyway, but here I simply loved her! Not to mention that her choice in man, Ian, was a really delicious one!
Now I can't wait for Loki's book! I'm sure I'm gonna love it just the same, if not more!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
I don't have much to say about the book, other than the fact it really rocked my world - like the rest of the series, of course. The romance was perfect, with tons of action and well-placed drama, and just the right dose of heat. I adored Fiona from the previous book anyway, but here I simply loved her! Not to mention that her choice in man, Ian, was a really delicious one!
Now I can't wait for Loki's book! I'm sure I'm gonna love it just the same, if not more!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
December 21, 2024
I like some smut, but this book was too horny too fast. It felt very rushed and unearned, and the writing just felt very basic.
March 11, 2017
This was a much shorter addition to the series; it is easy to read and gripping with very likeable characters. It was also fairly different to the other books in this series giving the series a much needed change up.
The main characters are Fiona and Ian; Fiona is an immortal acquirer going out to search for important artifacts and comes across Ian while looking for something else. She offers him a deal and the two team up, they are also romantically interested in each other and get together in a hot and steamy way. But there are a few problems in their way which they have to overcome and that's what keeps the romance between them interesting.
There are some secondary characters but again I think they will have books of their own if they haven't already.
The storyline is decent and fairly different to the other books in the series, but the series still isn't hugely original. The pacing is pretty good, and I do look foward to reading more books in the series, maybe after I've taken a small break.
3.5 stars a decent read
The main characters are Fiona and Ian; Fiona is an immortal acquirer going out to search for important artifacts and comes across Ian while looking for something else. She offers him a deal and the two team up, they are also romantically interested in each other and get together in a hot and steamy way. But there are a few problems in their way which they have to overcome and that's what keeps the romance between them interesting.
There are some secondary characters but again I think they will have books of their own if they haven't already.
The storyline is decent and fairly different to the other books in the series, but the series still isn't hugely original. The pacing is pretty good, and I do look foward to reading more books in the series, maybe after I've taken a small break.
3.5 stars a decent read
March 13, 2015
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
I've read all of the previous books in this series (Stolen Fate is Book 4). They've all been really great and I'm definitely a fan of this author and a fan of this series. But this book seemed like a one-off or a half hearted effort somehow. It wasn't awful but I was expecting so much more. And not just because this book was only around 130 pages.
I felt like there wasn't much depth to the characters. I didn't have any stake in what happened to them, you know? It felt like they were introduced to the reader, the main characters met each other, they went on a quest, had sex and then it was done.
For example, Fiona, the heroine, she talked about being afraid of succumbing to the madness that happens when someone of her "kind" fails to fulfill their destiny. She was destined to find some book and she never did. So she knew that it was going to happen unless she found a way to find that book. But I didn't see any signs that her madness was starting. I know you don't have to be in the midst of it to worry about it but it just seemed like some bullshit nebulous threat that was never seen or heard or really even described.
I guess I felt like I didn't know much about the hero or heroine. There wasn't really any kind of resolution between them but there wasn't really anything for them to overcome as a couple, either. Or was there? Maybe THAT'S my point - there wasn't anything that really stuck with me and I just wanted to be done with this book.
Maybe this would be a fun book for romance fans that also like adventure stories - like Indiana Jones type stories? Heck, maybe paranormal romance readers will like it... pretty much everyone but me! LOL! All I know is that I did not care for this book. If Stolen Fate was the first book in this series, I promise you that I would not have gone back for more. But I know that this author is much better than this book so I'm going to continue reading this series if she puts more of them out.
I've read all of the previous books in this series (Stolen Fate is Book 4). They've all been really great and I'm definitely a fan of this author and a fan of this series. But this book seemed like a one-off or a half hearted effort somehow. It wasn't awful but I was expecting so much more. And not just because this book was only around 130 pages.
I felt like there wasn't much depth to the characters. I didn't have any stake in what happened to them, you know? It felt like they were introduced to the reader, the main characters met each other, they went on a quest, had sex and then it was done.
For example, Fiona, the heroine, she talked about being afraid of succumbing to the madness that happens when someone of her "kind" fails to fulfill their destiny. She was destined to find some book and she never did. So she knew that it was going to happen unless she found a way to find that book. But I didn't see any signs that her madness was starting. I know you don't have to be in the midst of it to worry about it but it just seemed like some bullshit nebulous threat that was never seen or heard or really even described.
I guess I felt like I didn't know much about the hero or heroine. There wasn't really any kind of resolution between them but there wasn't really anything for them to overcome as a couple, either. Or was there? Maybe THAT'S my point - there wasn't anything that really stuck with me and I just wanted to be done with this book.
Maybe this would be a fun book for romance fans that also like adventure stories - like Indiana Jones type stories? Heck, maybe paranormal romance readers will like it... pretty much everyone but me! LOL! All I know is that I did not care for this book. If Stolen Fate was the first book in this series, I promise you that I would not have gone back for more. But I know that this author is much better than this book so I'm going to continue reading this series if she puts more of them out.
May 9, 2015
I couldn't imagine having a fate and finding out if I don't fulfill it I will go crazy. Fiona is on a mission whether the others agree to it or not just to save her sanity. She finds she has to recruit the help of an imprisoned thief, Ian. She never imagined her heart would get involved let alone that her fate has more consequences than she was aware of. Fiona and Ian find they work well together in more ways than one. Ian has secrets of his own and all he wants is freedom, not expecting to fall for his rescuer. He is the only one that can get Fiona to where she needs to go and has come up with a plan to finally have his freedom but things don't go the way he planned. As with the rest of the books in this series Linsey Hall sucked me into her world and held me there straight from the beginning. I can't wait for more in this series.
I received this book for an honest review.
I received this book for an honest review.
December 26, 2021
Cari lettori, se siete amanti dei libri fantasy, con un pizzico di avventura, azione e romanticismo, allora non potete perdervi “Il libro dei mondi” di Linsey Hall edito Virgibooks, quarto libro della saga The Mythean Arcana.
Sono passati dieci anni da quando Fiona Blackwood ha iniziato la sua maniacale del Libro dei mondi, un trattato di Pace stipulato con gli Dei che, come recita la profezia, servirà a salvare il Mondo.
La missione risulta sempre più complicata, soprattutto perché Fiona è sola e oltre alla pazienza, sta lentamente perdendo anche la percezione della realtà.
Dopo aver trattato con la prigione di Edimburgo, si scontra con Ian, un ladro estremamente abile, imprigionato ben cento anni prima per non aver nascosto i suoi poteri.
Quando Fiona gli si presenta con l’opportunità di porre fine al suo inferno personale, Ian accetta di rapinare con lei un Museo, non curante che per conquistare il Libro andranno incontro alle pene dell’inferno.
Sono passati dieci anni da quando Fiona Blackwood ha iniziato la sua maniacale del Libro dei mondi, un trattato di Pace stipulato con gli Dei che, come recita la profezia, servirà a salvare il Mondo.
La missione risulta sempre più complicata, soprattutto perché Fiona è sola e oltre alla pazienza, sta lentamente perdendo anche la percezione della realtà.
Dopo aver trattato con la prigione di Edimburgo, si scontra con Ian, un ladro estremamente abile, imprigionato ben cento anni prima per non aver nascosto i suoi poteri.
Quando Fiona gli si presenta con l’opportunità di porre fine al suo inferno personale, Ian accetta di rapinare con lei un Museo, non curante che per conquistare il Libro andranno incontro alle pene dell’inferno.
“Penso di amarti”
“Penso che sia molto più che reciproco”
Questa serie è una vera droga: una volta cominciato il primo libro, non potrete farne più a meno!
Inutile dire che i fantasy, soprattutto con una buona dose di azione e romance, sono quelli che amo di più: pare proprio che tenda a preferire il mondo magico a quello normale.
È possibile avere la percezione di conoscere i personaggi, anche se in fondo non c’è stata una reale introspezione con essi? Fino ad ora non lo ritenevo possibile, ma mi sono presto ricreduta. Il libro inizia subito con uno sprint di azione ed erotismo. La scrittrice non si sofferma sul background dei nostri protagonisti: di loro sappiamo poco e nulla, infatti non è approfondita l’evoluzione e crescita dei personaggi. Tutto sommato, il loro desiderio di essere liberi, di essere un’unica cosa, i loro sguardi rubati vi faranno amare i nostri protagonisti. Il suo continuo mettersi in discussione, con la sua anima buia e la sua disperazione, fa di Ian un personaggio estremamente sensibile e il mio preferito. Ho notato che la scrittrice tende ad annunciare la presenza dei personaggi di cui scriverà il prossimo libro: in questo appunto, viene introdotto Logan, che noi conosciamo come Loki. Non vedo l’ora di leggere in quinto libro della saga!
“Si era sbagliato. L’elemento più difficile con cui fare i conti si era rivelato il contatto con un’altra persona”
La penna della scrittrice pecca di descrizioni nei personaggi, ma riesce a descrivere con abilità, uscendo fuori dagli schemi e introducendo nuovi punti a favore del fantasy. La scrittura è ben articolata e questo ha reso il libro tanto scorrevole e avvincente; non nego di essermi ritrovata ad esultare in vari punti e sospirare in altri. Inoltre, vogliamo parlare delle scene hot? Ben descritte e molto esplicite! Vi consiglio la lettura di questa fantastica saga e di iniziare dal primo libro, così potrete avere una visione più completa del mondo descritto.
September 23, 2017
Awesome story. I've been reading this series from the 1st book and Ms Hall has developed each book so the story is unique to the characters involved while incorporating characters from previous books in this series. In her books each set of characters have their own unique & entertaining magical abilities. At least one of the books I received free from the author for an honest opinion but I always give my honest opinion. The two main characters are Fiona and Ian. Fiona was introduced in the previous books as she has an important role at the UniversIty. Her specialty is finding lost, stolen or missing artifacts. In this story it's an important book that she's been searching for almost a decade. Ian also has an interest in artifacts. He would acquire the artifact then sell it for a good profit. Unfortunately during one such acquisition he was caught and sent to prison for 100 years. When Fiona learns of Ian's specialty & talents she gets him out of prison. They have an immediate attraction. Fiona has been alone for about 10 years. When she didn't originally didn't find the 'Book' she was demoted and ostracized. She is desperate to find the book because unless she does she will slowly go insane. It is the major hazard as an acquirer. Ian and Fiona decide to work together. Of course Ian will do anything to get out of prison. Thise book includes wonderful descriptions of the characters and personalities so they come alive. You'll find intrigue, suspense, heartache humor and romance. Ian & Fiona have demons to slay, a prison to stay out of and important life altering book to recover. I look forward to reading more of Ms Hall's books in the future. There are still a few more characters from the earlier books that we could read their stories especially Logan's (Loki). Each book can be read as a stand alone, so you don't want to miss out!
December 14, 2021
RECENSIONE COMPLETA: https://leggimangiaviaggia.blogspot.c...
VALUTAZIONE: 5 Piume su 5
Recensione Del Blog Leggi Mangia Viaggia a Cura Di L’Aura
Oggi la nostra L'Aura torna a parlarci del quarto capitolo della serie The Mythean Arcana "Il Libro dei Mondi" scritto da Linsey Hall edito VirgiBooks. Entriamo anche noi attraverso l'etere di questo mondo misterioso, arcano ed...eccitante.
Clicca per leggere la Recensione Completa
Buona Lettura L’Aura
VALUTAZIONE: 5 Piume su 5
Recensione Del Blog Leggi Mangia Viaggia a Cura Di L’Aura
Oggi la nostra L'Aura torna a parlarci del quarto capitolo della serie The Mythean Arcana "Il Libro dei Mondi" scritto da Linsey Hall edito VirgiBooks. Entriamo anche noi attraverso l'etere di questo mondo misterioso, arcano ed...eccitante.
Clicca per leggere la Recensione Completa
Buona Lettura L’Aura
October 10, 2020
Amazing as always. Strong characters, romance and the fight for freedom.
Fiona is fighting for her sanity and her job. She must find a book she was fated to find years ago or she will slowly go insane because of a unfulfilled destiny. Ian MacKenzie is in a Mythean prison for accidentally blowing up a museum. Fiona is informed that to get to the book she needs Ian and enlists the help of Lea. Sparks fly and destinies change.
I loved this book.
Fiona is fighting for her sanity and her job. She must find a book she was fated to find years ago or she will slowly go insane because of a unfulfilled destiny. Ian MacKenzie is in a Mythean prison for accidentally blowing up a museum. Fiona is informed that to get to the book she needs Ian and enlists the help of Lea. Sparks fly and destinies change.
I loved this book.
October 17, 2021
Fate Sucks
Fiona was fated to retrieve the Book that would save the world from the Gods destroying it but she needed a thief to help her. Ian, the thief, was in prison for trying to steal the book and destroying the museum in the process. Risking all, Fiona gets Ian out of prison to help but Fate is nothing if not fickle!
Fiona was fated to retrieve the Book that would save the world from the Gods destroying it but she needed a thief to help her. Ian, the thief, was in prison for trying to steal the book and destroying the museum in the process. Risking all, Fiona gets Ian out of prison to help but Fate is nothing if not fickle!
October 30, 2020
Great read
This is a new to me author but after reading this one I will have to read all of the series.
It is well written, easy to read, the world building is very interesting with the mixture of magic and the history of many beliefs and cultures.
This is a new to me author but after reading this one I will have to read all of the series.
It is well written, easy to read, the world building is very interesting with the mixture of magic and the history of many beliefs and cultures.
June 3, 2021
Loved it!
Seriously enjoying this series so much that it’s hard to interrupt reading to take just this short moment on a review! I’m that hooked! Great world building, ingenious storyline and a very fresh take on mythology.
Seriously enjoying this series so much that it’s hard to interrupt reading to take just this short moment on a review! I’m that hooked! Great world building, ingenious storyline and a very fresh take on mythology.
November 18, 2017
On to book 5
This story was an interesting change. I wonder if they will all tie together somehow? Probably not, but you can always hope.
This story was an interesting change. I wonder if they will all tie together somehow? Probably not, but you can always hope.
March 22, 2018
Stolen Fate
Gave it a five star rating. Loved the story. Can’t wait to read the book in the series to find out what happens next.
Gave it a five star rating. Loved the story. Can’t wait to read the book in the series to find out what happens next.
July 26, 2020
Awesome
There are no other words to describe how incredibly awesome every single one of her books are! Just INCREDIBLY AWESOME!!!
There are no other words to describe how incredibly awesome every single one of her books are! Just INCREDIBLY AWESOME!!!
November 23, 2020
No words
There are no words that I can say as to how much I yet again enjoyed another book from this series.
There are no words that I can say as to how much I yet again enjoyed another book from this series.
September 19, 2021
What a twisty turning storyline! Loved it 😍
February 28, 2022
good book and great series
I really liked the character development and the end wasn’t perfect which made it more real and believable. Good book!
I really liked the character development and the end wasn’t perfect which made it more real and believable. Good book!
January 11, 2023
Another true adult series, not new adult. Very intriguing characters and world-building.
December 11, 2014
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth
This is the fourth book in this phenomenal series. Granted it is shorter than the others but it contains a world of pleasure between its pages. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. I found Ian and Fiona a wonderfully compelling couple. Fiona’s need to find the book had consumed her life and put everything on hold, while Ian has been trapped in a hell prison for a hundred years with no chance of escape. Fiona’s need for Ian’s help turns into an opportunity like no other, for both of them. I adore this series so much and recommend it to anyone and everyone.
Opening Scene:
Blisteringly hot hellwinds scraped across Ian MacKenzie’s flesh as he hoisted the great stone block into place.
The Review:
Fiona Blackwood is an Acquirer, an immortal who uses magic to hunt ancient artifacts, and she’s losing her mind. Failing to live up to her fate by finding the Book of Worlds, she’s been shunned by those around her and demoted in her job. The worst part is she’s slowly losing her mind, as her subconscious tries to accomplish her fated task. Presented with an opportunity to find the book and save her sanity, she will let nothing and no one stand in her way.
Ian MacKenzie is an accomplished thief. He has been locked away in a nightmare prison for more than a hundred years. All because he failed to maintain the secrecy of his magical race, when his last job went awry. Now Fiona is presenting him an opportunity of escape, and he’s determined he’ll never go back to hell. Even if it means betraying the woman he’s beginning to care for.
But more is at stake than either Fiona or Ian could ever imagine. The fate of the world is being threatened by unknown forces, and Fiona and Ian have difficult choices to make.
Notable Scene:
“To what do I hold the pleasure?” His eyes raced over her face when she stopped a few feet in front of him. Strong features and a determined gaze. She had an expression that looked like she’d roll over anyone who got in her way.
“Can we have some privacy?” she asked the warden.
The idiot in his pants twitched at that. He shifted so that it wasn’t evident.
“I’ll be just outside the door.” The guard leveled a warning glance at Ian. He left the door cracked behind him.
Her gaze met his. Steely eyes-both in color and hardness-searched his own.
It made him wonder what she saw. Once, he knew she would have seen someone stylish, wealthy, good with words. A man with a sliver tongue who knew how to get what he wanted.
He didn’t see that man in the mirror anymore, and he had the feeling that, on the day he finally got out of this damned place, that man wouldn’t return.
No, she’d see a harder man, half animal by now. Shaped by his time in prison like a canyon carved out by a river. The qualities of that man, well, even he wasn’t familiar with them.
“I’m Fiona Blackwood.” Her accent was local like his, and he assumed she’d grown up in Edinburgh, too. Though the prison contained inmates and staff from all over the globe, her Scottish burr was distinct. She didn’t reach out to shake his hand.
It reminded him of what he’d become and that there was no reason to engage in the social pleasantries that were once second nature. “Ian MacKenzie.”
“You’re in here for blowing up the west wing of the Scottish Museum of Antiquities,” she said.
He shrugged. “Aye.”
Her jaw clenched. Apparently she didn’t like his blasé attitude about the catastrophic damage he and his partner Logan had caused while trying to rob the museum a hundred years ago. It should have been an ordinary job, but their magic had gotten out of hand.
FTC Advisory: Linsey Hall provided me with a copy of Stolen Fate by Linsey Hall. Published through Bonnie Doon Press LLC. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
This is the fourth book in this phenomenal series. Granted it is shorter than the others but it contains a world of pleasure between its pages. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. I found Ian and Fiona a wonderfully compelling couple. Fiona’s need to find the book had consumed her life and put everything on hold, while Ian has been trapped in a hell prison for a hundred years with no chance of escape. Fiona’s need for Ian’s help turns into an opportunity like no other, for both of them. I adore this series so much and recommend it to anyone and everyone.
Opening Scene:
Blisteringly hot hellwinds scraped across Ian MacKenzie’s flesh as he hoisted the great stone block into place.
The Review:
Fiona Blackwood is an Acquirer, an immortal who uses magic to hunt ancient artifacts, and she’s losing her mind. Failing to live up to her fate by finding the Book of Worlds, she’s been shunned by those around her and demoted in her job. The worst part is she’s slowly losing her mind, as her subconscious tries to accomplish her fated task. Presented with an opportunity to find the book and save her sanity, she will let nothing and no one stand in her way.
Ian MacKenzie is an accomplished thief. He has been locked away in a nightmare prison for more than a hundred years. All because he failed to maintain the secrecy of his magical race, when his last job went awry. Now Fiona is presenting him an opportunity of escape, and he’s determined he’ll never go back to hell. Even if it means betraying the woman he’s beginning to care for.
But more is at stake than either Fiona or Ian could ever imagine. The fate of the world is being threatened by unknown forces, and Fiona and Ian have difficult choices to make.
Notable Scene:
“To what do I hold the pleasure?” His eyes raced over her face when she stopped a few feet in front of him. Strong features and a determined gaze. She had an expression that looked like she’d roll over anyone who got in her way.
“Can we have some privacy?” she asked the warden.
The idiot in his pants twitched at that. He shifted so that it wasn’t evident.
“I’ll be just outside the door.” The guard leveled a warning glance at Ian. He left the door cracked behind him.
Her gaze met his. Steely eyes-both in color and hardness-searched his own.
It made him wonder what she saw. Once, he knew she would have seen someone stylish, wealthy, good with words. A man with a sliver tongue who knew how to get what he wanted.
He didn’t see that man in the mirror anymore, and he had the feeling that, on the day he finally got out of this damned place, that man wouldn’t return.
No, she’d see a harder man, half animal by now. Shaped by his time in prison like a canyon carved out by a river. The qualities of that man, well, even he wasn’t familiar with them.
“I’m Fiona Blackwood.” Her accent was local like his, and he assumed she’d grown up in Edinburgh, too. Though the prison contained inmates and staff from all over the globe, her Scottish burr was distinct. She didn’t reach out to shake his hand.
It reminded him of what he’d become and that there was no reason to engage in the social pleasantries that were once second nature. “Ian MacKenzie.”
“You’re in here for blowing up the west wing of the Scottish Museum of Antiquities,” she said.
He shrugged. “Aye.”
Her jaw clenched. Apparently she didn’t like his blasé attitude about the catastrophic damage he and his partner Logan had caused while trying to rob the museum a hundred years ago. It should have been an ordinary job, but their magic had gotten out of hand.
FTC Advisory: Linsey Hall provided me with a copy of Stolen Fate by Linsey Hall. Published through Bonnie Doon Press LLC. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
May 5, 2015
Imagine if you failed your fate and to make matters worse your future is insanity.
Talk about pressure, well that is exactly what happened to Fiona. Several fates predicted she alone would find the Book of Worlds. This Book is a magical pact that safe guards people of Earth from malicious gods. Something like a treaty. Only problem being after 10 years of futile searching she is empty handed! Now she is terrified to end up much like her father since he too was a Failte, One who failed their fate. Now everything rides on Ian MacKenzie. First stop Immortal Prison for Magical Deviants to bust said long shot out of prison.
Ian has been in a hellish prison for 100 years. His days consist of brutal and backbreaking labor followed by a lonesome nights in too close of quarters. He was startled to say the least when Fiona proposed this half crazed idea in breaking into a mortal Museum and stealing back this book. So it begins the cat and mouse game. But the rules get blurry when embers of like smolder into love. Ian would do and say anything to escape and Fiona needs this too bad to be concerned.
I was initially drawn to this book for the same reason I have read the other Linsey Hall books. I just love the way she articulates. She has a lyrical descriptive edge to her writing that forces me to read more of her books. Well played. Each book even though they are in the same series is dynamic in their own rite. Sure you see cameos of past characters but other than that she is a deep well of creativity and it shows in the uniqueness of each book.
Ian and Fiona have this desperation that is fueling them. They have a tragic need to help each other and at first you think well if that is the foundation so be it. Their situation is not as Black and White as it may seem. Lines get crossed, feelings get in the way and all of a sudden the self-sacrifices’ made are ones from the heart. Did I mention that these Mythean books are also some of the sweetest hottest reads I have read this year? I do like the tie me up type of adult books, yet the message is clearly laid down here just in the most divinely way possible. The sex is like a decadent chocolate you cannot have just one….NO they all must be sampled!
So pick up the book and prepare to have your days stolen away.
I received this book for an honest review!! I loved IT!!
Talk about pressure, well that is exactly what happened to Fiona. Several fates predicted she alone would find the Book of Worlds. This Book is a magical pact that safe guards people of Earth from malicious gods. Something like a treaty. Only problem being after 10 years of futile searching she is empty handed! Now she is terrified to end up much like her father since he too was a Failte, One who failed their fate. Now everything rides on Ian MacKenzie. First stop Immortal Prison for Magical Deviants to bust said long shot out of prison.
Ian has been in a hellish prison for 100 years. His days consist of brutal and backbreaking labor followed by a lonesome nights in too close of quarters. He was startled to say the least when Fiona proposed this half crazed idea in breaking into a mortal Museum and stealing back this book. So it begins the cat and mouse game. But the rules get blurry when embers of like smolder into love. Ian would do and say anything to escape and Fiona needs this too bad to be concerned.
I was initially drawn to this book for the same reason I have read the other Linsey Hall books. I just love the way she articulates. She has a lyrical descriptive edge to her writing that forces me to read more of her books. Well played. Each book even though they are in the same series is dynamic in their own rite. Sure you see cameos of past characters but other than that she is a deep well of creativity and it shows in the uniqueness of each book.
Ian and Fiona have this desperation that is fueling them. They have a tragic need to help each other and at first you think well if that is the foundation so be it. Their situation is not as Black and White as it may seem. Lines get crossed, feelings get in the way and all of a sudden the self-sacrifices’ made are ones from the heart. Did I mention that these Mythean books are also some of the sweetest hottest reads I have read this year? I do like the tie me up type of adult books, yet the message is clearly laid down here just in the most divinely way possible. The sex is like a decadent chocolate you cannot have just one….NO they all must be sampled!
So pick up the book and prepare to have your days stolen away.
I received this book for an honest review!! I loved IT!!
February 26, 2015
***I received a free copy of this book from Bonnie Doon Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
This was a fun, fast pace, action packed and sexy read that doesn’t skimp on plot or character development despite it’s novella length. Fiona needs to find the Book of Worlds, not only to repair her damaged reputation, but to save her sanity. When she is given information on not where the elusive book is, but who can help her obtain it, she decides to take matters into her own hand. Ian has been locked up in the University's Prison for Magical Deviants for almost a century so when Fiona recruits him to help her with her plan, he agrees and decides that once they do find the Book of Worlds he will use it as a bargaining chip for his freedom. But, things don’t go quite as planned. Outside forces, a God hellbent on acquiring the book. the University and the nature of magic, get in the way as well as Ian and Fiona’s own internal feelings, not only towards each other but also towards what they believed their end games to be.
What I really liked about this one, and something that is sometimes difficult to get right when it comes to novella length books, is that I felt like I got to know both Fiona and Ian. We have met Fiona before, but didn’t get the full impact of her plight and Ms. Hall does a great job at keeping the story going at a good pace while weaving in the information about Fiona and Ian’s pasts and why they are the way that they are, which also helped to make the attraction/almost Insta-love they end up feeling towards each other work for me.
I would have liked a little more time with the Gods themselves to get their perspective on the Book, but there is enough information about what they would do with it that that one issue falls under my “It’s not you, it’s me” umbrella. The mysterious and elusive Logan pops up in this one and my curiosity is definitely piqued about what his end game is and what he has set in motion to obtain it, so I am definitely looking forward to seeing what comes next.
This was a fun, fast pace, action packed and sexy read that doesn’t skimp on plot or character development despite it’s novella length. Fiona needs to find the Book of Worlds, not only to repair her damaged reputation, but to save her sanity. When she is given information on not where the elusive book is, but who can help her obtain it, she decides to take matters into her own hand. Ian has been locked up in the University's Prison for Magical Deviants for almost a century so when Fiona recruits him to help her with her plan, he agrees and decides that once they do find the Book of Worlds he will use it as a bargaining chip for his freedom. But, things don’t go quite as planned. Outside forces, a God hellbent on acquiring the book. the University and the nature of magic, get in the way as well as Ian and Fiona’s own internal feelings, not only towards each other but also towards what they believed their end games to be.
What I really liked about this one, and something that is sometimes difficult to get right when it comes to novella length books, is that I felt like I got to know both Fiona and Ian. We have met Fiona before, but didn’t get the full impact of her plight and Ms. Hall does a great job at keeping the story going at a good pace while weaving in the information about Fiona and Ian’s pasts and why they are the way that they are, which also helped to make the attraction/almost Insta-love they end up feeling towards each other work for me.
I would have liked a little more time with the Gods themselves to get their perspective on the Book, but there is enough information about what they would do with it that that one issue falls under my “It’s not you, it’s me” umbrella. The mysterious and elusive Logan pops up in this one and my curiosity is definitely piqued about what his end game is and what he has set in motion to obtain it, so I am definitely looking forward to seeing what comes next.
August 15, 2016
Received an ARC through NetGalley.
I've only read one book from the Mythean Arcana series and I totally loved. I decided to skip ahead and read this ARC since it's a companion series. Once again, I love how seamless Linsey Hall's writing is. The world is amazing and it's set in Edinburgh, Scotland which I'm a huge fan of. Centered around magic, gods, demons and more -- it's a great paranormal story. This story however, I had to give 3.5 stars because it definitely didn't stack up like the first book in the series.
Fiona is an Acquirer, an immortal who uses magic to hunt for ancient artifacts. For the past ten years she has failed her job of obtaining the Book of Worlds. She is set on getting that book back to the University even if she has to break a man out of jail. Fiona was a sweet woman. She seemed to have had an uneasy life with the way her father turned out. She was strong, smart and knew she wanted to keep her sanity.
Ian MacKenzie has been in hell for over a hundred years. He took the fall for him and his friend and has been there ever since. It's not until his friend helps him breaks out that he can live again. Ian was given a crap hand at life. He was an orphan so he had no parents to care for him, no real friends and didn't know about other Mytheans until he was older. He was essentially alone and had to survive the best way he could. I totally respect him. He may have chosen a different path, but he did good for himself. Loved Ian.
The romance was pretty basic in my opinion, but as I read the story I did feel a bit hot myself. Ian may have been locked away for a hundred years, but he knew how to please. Just like the story itself, the romance and steamy scenes were quick. I did enjoy the overall look of the romance between them.
That ending was amazing! I didn't expect Logan to do what he did. Ian having money saved over a hundred years with interest makes him rich as hell. I'm happy Fiona and him had a happy ending. Good read. I'll definitely read more of the series soon.
I've only read one book from the Mythean Arcana series and I totally loved. I decided to skip ahead and read this ARC since it's a companion series. Once again, I love how seamless Linsey Hall's writing is. The world is amazing and it's set in Edinburgh, Scotland which I'm a huge fan of. Centered around magic, gods, demons and more -- it's a great paranormal story. This story however, I had to give 3.5 stars because it definitely didn't stack up like the first book in the series.
Fiona is an Acquirer, an immortal who uses magic to hunt for ancient artifacts. For the past ten years she has failed her job of obtaining the Book of Worlds. She is set on getting that book back to the University even if she has to break a man out of jail. Fiona was a sweet woman. She seemed to have had an uneasy life with the way her father turned out. She was strong, smart and knew she wanted to keep her sanity.
Ian MacKenzie has been in hell for over a hundred years. He took the fall for him and his friend and has been there ever since. It's not until his friend helps him breaks out that he can live again. Ian was given a crap hand at life. He was an orphan so he had no parents to care for him, no real friends and didn't know about other Mytheans until he was older. He was essentially alone and had to survive the best way he could. I totally respect him. He may have chosen a different path, but he did good for himself. Loved Ian.
The romance was pretty basic in my opinion, but as I read the story I did feel a bit hot myself. Ian may have been locked away for a hundred years, but he knew how to please. Just like the story itself, the romance and steamy scenes were quick. I did enjoy the overall look of the romance between them.
That ending was amazing! I didn't expect Logan to do what he did. Ian having money saved over a hundred years with interest makes him rich as hell. I'm happy Fiona and him had a happy ending. Good read. I'll definitely read more of the series soon.
May 9, 2015
Although this is a novella in the Mythean Arcana series, it doesn't read like one. So much action and passion are packed into this story, you feel like you've read a much longer book. To me, this is the sign of an excellent short story or novella. In a bold move, Fiona, an Acquirer, shunned and demoted for not completing her fated task, figures she has nothing to lose and breaks Ian MacKenzie out of prison. Well, the Mythean version of prison anyway, which is rather nasty, as you would expect from an Immortal prison. Ian is a thief who ended up in prison for stealing the very antiquities Fiona holds so very dear, but he is the only one who can get the mysterious Book of Worlds back for Fiona. Knowing it could all backfire on her, Fiona is determined on her course of action. Ian, of course, is just as determined he's not going back to prison, and the Book of Worlds is his key to freedom. These two move forward into an exciting action-packed adventure (oh, did I forget to mention they're not the only ones looking for the book?) trying to recover this artifact. The adventure heats up, and so does the passion for two people who have not been with anyone in a very, very, long time, albeit for different reasons. I loved Ian and Fiona's story and was intrigued on how this one was going to end with an HEA. This is a fast, clean, easy read that does not leave you feeling let down. I have read each book in the series so far and freely admit to being addicted. Each one is a stand-alone story in its own right and will leave you longing for more.
(Gifted a copy for independent review)
(Gifted a copy for independent review)
December 14, 2014
Independent Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock.
Ian MacKenzie is in prison for trying to rob the Scottish Museum of Antiquities. He had already served a hundred years at the University's Prison for Magical Deviants. Then one day Fiona Blackwood visits him at his prison cell asking for his help. She needs his help to get the Book of Worlds. Only Ian can get her past the enchantments at the museum. Fiona has been looking for this book for the last ten years and had been unable to find it. She needs to find it or she will go insane from not being able to fulfill her prophesy. Fiona tells Ian if he helps her she can get his sentence lessened. Ian decides to help her with the intent of using the book to get his freedom.
This was a great read. The book was fast paced with lots going on. The characters were well written and worked good with each other. If you like books with magic and mythical gods this is a great book. This book has lots of magic and paranormal things going on. I would have liked if the author had written more on the old gods that no one followed anymore. I found it interesting to read and would have liked if she elaborated on that more. I would like to read more of her books to see if the others go into it more.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves magic and paranormal romance.
Ian MacKenzie is in prison for trying to rob the Scottish Museum of Antiquities. He had already served a hundred years at the University's Prison for Magical Deviants. Then one day Fiona Blackwood visits him at his prison cell asking for his help. She needs his help to get the Book of Worlds. Only Ian can get her past the enchantments at the museum. Fiona has been looking for this book for the last ten years and had been unable to find it. She needs to find it or she will go insane from not being able to fulfill her prophesy. Fiona tells Ian if he helps her she can get his sentence lessened. Ian decides to help her with the intent of using the book to get his freedom.
This was a great read. The book was fast paced with lots going on. The characters were well written and worked good with each other. If you like books with magic and mythical gods this is a great book. This book has lots of magic and paranormal things going on. I would have liked if the author had written more on the old gods that no one followed anymore. I found it interesting to read and would have liked if she elaborated on that more. I would like to read more of her books to see if the others go into it more.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves magic and paranormal romance.
December 9, 2014
I think the first thing that should be said just for honesty is this is a very short novel or a long novella at about 130 pages. Now with that out of the way I can say with that length it was action almost all the way if they were not doing something adventurous or dangerous they were thinking about each other after a short period of not trusting each other since she does have to get him out of prison to get his help.
The short of all this is she needs him to get back a book which was her fate to find but which she had failed at years ago and now is not just an obsession but since it is tied to her powers it may drive her insane (really insane not a saying) if she cannot complete her Fate (hence the name since the book was stolen years ago)
This was a great story, great characters and an ending that makes me wonder if we have not seen the end of the story of these two characters.
Bottom Line: Fast read, great story, lot of action and surprisingly believable romance in such a short novel. Highly recommended and 5 Stars for getting such a great story into so few pages without feeling cheated.
The short of all this is she needs him to get back a book which was her fate to find but which she had failed at years ago and now is not just an obsession but since it is tied to her powers it may drive her insane (really insane not a saying) if she cannot complete her Fate (hence the name since the book was stolen years ago)
This was a great story, great characters and an ending that makes me wonder if we have not seen the end of the story of these two characters.
Bottom Line: Fast read, great story, lot of action and surprisingly believable romance in such a short novel. Highly recommended and 5 Stars for getting such a great story into so few pages without feeling cheated.
December 17, 2014
Ha estado bien, muy entretenido.
Me ha pasado lo mismo que con el libro anterior Soulceress, todo el universo donde se desarrolla la historia está muy trabajado, es muy interesante, hay un montón de personajes y de posibilidades y tiene partes muy originales, esperaba lo mismo del romance pero no ha sido así. El romance carece de todo esto. Es insta-lust y vamos que nos vamos, no se desarrolla la relación, es todo sexo (que por cierto, no ha sido demasiado sexy, IMO), partes del cuerpo que no se controlan (de cintura para abajo) y poco más.
Estoy un poco cansada del insta-lust facilón que se ventila de un plumazo la mitad de la historia. Si hubiese sido una historia de ciencia ficción se hubiese merecido entre 4 y 5 stars, pero al ser un romance…no consigue pasar del aprobado.
June 11, 2015
I received a free ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
This is book 4 in the series. The suggested reading order is Braving Fate, Soulceress, Rogue Soul then this one Stolen Fate. I am reading this as a standalone that is why my rating is a 4. You really need the other books so you are not fully lost.
Fiona is set on her task and is willing to do anything to complete it even stealing Ian out of jail. To get the Book of Worlds she cant let anything stop her.
There is more at stake then either of them was aware of and it makes matters worse.
They are fighting their attraction to each other but will the subcome to it?
When they go for the book they run into some major obsticles that they were not prepared for what will happen next?
Will Ian stay out of jail?
Will they finally be together?
Will they rescue the book?
What will happen next? Get the book and you will know it is worth it and so much fun.
This is book 4 in the series. The suggested reading order is Braving Fate, Soulceress, Rogue Soul then this one Stolen Fate. I am reading this as a standalone that is why my rating is a 4. You really need the other books so you are not fully lost.
Fiona is set on her task and is willing to do anything to complete it even stealing Ian out of jail. To get the Book of Worlds she cant let anything stop her.
There is more at stake then either of them was aware of and it makes matters worse.
They are fighting their attraction to each other but will the subcome to it?
When they go for the book they run into some major obsticles that they were not prepared for what will happen next?
Will Ian stay out of jail?
Will they finally be together?
Will they rescue the book?
What will happen next? Get the book and you will know it is worth it and so much fun.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews