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Reliquary #1
Reliquary
Mattie Carver’s engagement party should have marked the start of her own personal fairy tale. But when her fiancé, Ben, is violently abducted the next morning, her desperate quest to find him rips her away from small-town life and reveals a shattering truth: magic is real—and Ben is hooked. It’s not the stuff of storybooks. It’s wildly addictive, capable of producing everything from hellish anguish to sensual ecstasy almost beyond human endurance.
Determined to find out who took Ben and why, Mattie immerses herself in a shadowy underworld and comes face-to-face with the darkly alluring Asa Ward, a rogue magic dealer, infamous hustler…and her missing fiancé’s estranged brother. Asa has the power to sense magic, and he realizes Mattie is a reliquary, someone with the rare ability to carry magic within her own body, undetected. Asa agrees to help find Ben on one condition: Mattie must use her uncommon talent to assist his smuggling operations. Now, from magic-laced Vegas casinos to the netherworld clubs of Bangkok, Mattie is on a rescue mission. With Asa by her side, she’ll face not only the supernatural forces arrayed against her but the all-too-human temptation that she fears she can’t resist.
Determined to find out who took Ben and why, Mattie immerses herself in a shadowy underworld and comes face-to-face with the darkly alluring Asa Ward, a rogue magic dealer, infamous hustler…and her missing fiancé’s estranged brother. Asa has the power to sense magic, and he realizes Mattie is a reliquary, someone with the rare ability to carry magic within her own body, undetected. Asa agrees to help find Ben on one condition: Mattie must use her uncommon talent to assist his smuggling operations. Now, from magic-laced Vegas casinos to the netherworld clubs of Bangkok, Mattie is on a rescue mission. With Asa by her side, she’ll face not only the supernatural forces arrayed against her but the all-too-human temptation that she fears she can’t resist.
288 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2016
485 people are currently reading
2793 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Fine
54 books1,998 followersWhen I'm not writing, I'm psychologizing (really, I even get a paycheck for it). Sometimes I do both at the same time. The results are unpredictable.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
June 1, 2016
Disappointed to give this book less than four stars, because it's been the norm for me to absolutely adore Sarah Fine's books. I've read eleven of her twelve published books, and while three stars remains the lowest rating I've given any of her books, nine of those eleven have been four-star ratings or higher. I wanted to love this one, but I couldn't. I liked it and I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. But. I did not love this book. And I'm disappointed by the fact that I didn't love it, and a little bit because the book had some elements that I personally did not like.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Reliquary by Sarah Fine
Book One of the Reliquary series
Publisher: 47North
Publication Date: June 14, 2016
Rating: 3 stars
Source: ARC won from a giveaway
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Mattie Carver’s engagement party should have marked the start of her own personal fairy tale. But when her fiancé, Ben, is violently abducted the next morning, her desperate quest to find him rips her away from small-town life and reveals a shattering truth: magic is real—and Ben is hooked. It’s not the stuff of storybooks. It’s wildly addictive, capable of producing everything from hellish anguish to sensual ecstasy almost beyond human endurance.
Determined to find out who took Ben and why, Mattie immerses herself in a shadowy underworld and comes face-to-face with the darkly alluring Asa Ward, a rogue magic dealer, infamous hustler…and her missing fiancé’s estranged brother. Asa has the power to sense magic, and he realizes Mattie is a reliquary, someone with the rare ability to carry magic within her own body, undetected. Asa agrees to help find Ben on one condition: Mattie must use her uncommon talent to assist his smuggling operations. Now, from magic-laced Vegas casinos to the netherworld clubs of Bangkok, Mattie is on a rescue mission. With Asa by her side, she’ll face not only the supernatural forces arrayed against her but the all-too-human temptation that she fears she can’t resist.
What I Liked:
It breaks my heart a little, to give this book a less-than-super-positive rating/review. If you've been following me and my blog, you know how much of a Sarah Fine fan I am. This is the eleventh book by her I've read (Sanctum, Fractured, Chaos, Scan, Of Metal and Wishes, Of Dreams and Rust, Marked, Claimed, Fated, The Impostor Queen, Reliquary). Of those eleven, nine have received four stars or higher. So, you can probably imagine how I feel. While I liked this book enough to want to give it a positive rating, there were aspects of this book that I didn't enjoy.
Hours after her engagement party, Mattie Carver wakes up and finds up fiance Ben missing, kidnapped from their house. Ben was perfect and kind and sweet - who would do this? It turns out that Ben was hooked on addictive magic, and he owned someone a lot of money. Mattie throws herself into this dark world, and finds out that she's a reliquary, a vessel for magic. With the help of Asa, Ben's estranged brother (whom Mattie finds by accident in a magic den), Mattie sets off to find Ben and bring him back. But Ben wasn't nearly as innocent as Mattie thought, and there are larger forces at work. Mattie and Asa head to Las Vegas, and then San Francisco to Bangkok, trying to find a relic in exchange for Ben's life.
There was plenty I liked about this book. For starters, I liked Mattie. She's sweet and a little naive and a do-gooder, but not in an annoying way (the do-gooder part). She is fiercely loyal to Ben and doesn't suspect anything bad in terms of him and why he disappeared (she never knew about his money problem, or the magic). Mattie talks a lot and gets on Asa's nerves all the time. She isn't too subtle and she's also a little clumsy. I like her.
I never, ever liked Ben. From the start, I wasn't buying his perfection, his nice-guy act. Sarah Fine writes him in a way that readers are suspicious of him, in Chapter 1. There is something wrong with him that we can't place our fingers on. And then we find out that he owes money, he's an addict, he used magic on Mattie - I never liked him, but I liked him less and less as the story went on. There was nothing Mattie wouldn't do for him, which was pitiful. Even as she found out everything he was doing, she was still bent on finding him. Understandable, you thought you knew your fiance so well, and loved him...
Ben is barely in the book. Thank goodness.
Then there is Asa, who dominates the story. We meet him fairly quickly. He is a sensor, a rare type that can sniff out magic. He's so rare that everyone wants him on their side, so he's always on the run. He doesn't want to be caged in, no matter the price. Asa comes across as a cursing, scolding jerk, but he is actually a loyal and genuine guy. He is very crafty and has good instincts for survival. He's much more sensitive than Mattie initially thought. And he's estranged from his brother for a good reason. Another reason for me to h a t e Ben.
This world's magic is pretty cool. Cool, but also wicked and scary. There are four types: emotion, manipulation, pleasure, and pain. And there are people that wield each type of magic. The magic dens that Mattie finds in search of Ben, where she meets Asa, are full of pleasure (which is what Ben was hooked on, I believe). Mattie was surprised!
One thing I can say about this story (and all of Sarah Fine's books) is that I was never bored, and I couldn't read fast enough. I was apprehensive initially, because of the potential love triangle (I'll get to that), but I couldn't stop reading. So much action! There weren't twists and curveballs at every page, but Asa and Mattie were constantly on the move. The settings were vastly different and well-written, as per usual!
As much as I liked the high stakes and high action and wonderful characters, the next section is going to dose the flames a little.
What I Did Not Like:
There may be slight spoilers in the section, but I'm forging ahead.
I'm not a fan of the romance. We know from the start that Mattie is engaged to Ben, and it's clear that they're both in love and devoted to each other. When Mattie finds out that Ben was hiding so much from her AND manipulating her using magic, she's still determined to find and free him. She's incredibly loyal to him - and like I said before, that's understandable. Even if he is a terrible person. I don't like Ben. He seems too perfect initially, and then we found out how awful of a person he actually is. Not a fan.
What's worse is the obvious love triangle. Mattie has loved Ben for a while now, but it's obvious that after this book, after weeks of traveling with Asa, she has feelings for him. Love and lust all tangled up in one, when it comes to Asa, and unlike with Ben, it seems more real.
Here is the spoiler-y thing I will say - Mattie is engaged to Ben and has obviously had sex with him. She and Asa do not have sex during this book (thank goodness), but they share a lot of intimate interactions. There are a few kisses, though some of them were to distract (at one point, Mattie and Asa had to act like boyfriend/girlfriend to blend in). I hate basically all and any love triangles, and I especially hate how Mattie realizes she wants Asa too, but it's clear that she will never want to be with him. Given the tragic events in Asa's past, it's so unfair that he's alone alone alone. I'm not saying it's Mattie's fault necessarily... but Ben is a terrible person, Mattie clearly has strong feelings for Asa (and vice versa), and Mattie makes the choice, in the end.
I h a t e the ending. I hate it. You can probably guess why. I know this isn't the end of Mattie's story (there are two more books to follow), but as this book stands, I am not a fan of the ending. Part of me understands why Mattie did what she did, but there is one part of the ending that Mattie did that I abhor. I felt a little betrayed by that!
Things I hope for, in book two: for Ben to jump into incoming traffic (he won't), for Mattie to realize what she did (she knows but won't change anything), and for Asa to find some comfort. The poor man needs a hug.
Obviously if you have zero issues with love triangles, you'll be fine. I hate them and that's not going to change - especially with a love triangle like this, in which one of the "options" is a terrible person.
Would I Recommend It:
I can't recommend this book - at least not yet. I'd say wait until the series is completed - which should be in November! Book two publishes in August, and book three in November. I would just wait it out. I want to have faith in Sarah Fine (the romances in her books are usually very linear and SO good!) but this love triangle appearance has me doubting. Also, this book contains very adult scenes, for those wondering!
Rating:
3 stars. 2.5 stars? The thing is, I liked the book. I liked the magic, the world-building, the characters (minus Ben). I did not like the romance. None of it seemed fair to Asa. And that thing Mattie did at the very end? I personally was not a fan. But I want to read the rest of the books in the series, to find out what happens!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Reliquary by Sarah Fine
Book One of the Reliquary series
Publisher: 47North
Publication Date: June 14, 2016
Rating: 3 stars
Source: ARC won from a giveaway
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Mattie Carver’s engagement party should have marked the start of her own personal fairy tale. But when her fiancé, Ben, is violently abducted the next morning, her desperate quest to find him rips her away from small-town life and reveals a shattering truth: magic is real—and Ben is hooked. It’s not the stuff of storybooks. It’s wildly addictive, capable of producing everything from hellish anguish to sensual ecstasy almost beyond human endurance.
Determined to find out who took Ben and why, Mattie immerses herself in a shadowy underworld and comes face-to-face with the darkly alluring Asa Ward, a rogue magic dealer, infamous hustler…and her missing fiancé’s estranged brother. Asa has the power to sense magic, and he realizes Mattie is a reliquary, someone with the rare ability to carry magic within her own body, undetected. Asa agrees to help find Ben on one condition: Mattie must use her uncommon talent to assist his smuggling operations. Now, from magic-laced Vegas casinos to the netherworld clubs of Bangkok, Mattie is on a rescue mission. With Asa by her side, she’ll face not only the supernatural forces arrayed against her but the all-too-human temptation that she fears she can’t resist.
What I Liked:
It breaks my heart a little, to give this book a less-than-super-positive rating/review. If you've been following me and my blog, you know how much of a Sarah Fine fan I am. This is the eleventh book by her I've read (Sanctum, Fractured, Chaos, Scan, Of Metal and Wishes, Of Dreams and Rust, Marked, Claimed, Fated, The Impostor Queen, Reliquary). Of those eleven, nine have received four stars or higher. So, you can probably imagine how I feel. While I liked this book enough to want to give it a positive rating, there were aspects of this book that I didn't enjoy.
Hours after her engagement party, Mattie Carver wakes up and finds up fiance Ben missing, kidnapped from their house. Ben was perfect and kind and sweet - who would do this? It turns out that Ben was hooked on addictive magic, and he owned someone a lot of money. Mattie throws herself into this dark world, and finds out that she's a reliquary, a vessel for magic. With the help of Asa, Ben's estranged brother (whom Mattie finds by accident in a magic den), Mattie sets off to find Ben and bring him back. But Ben wasn't nearly as innocent as Mattie thought, and there are larger forces at work. Mattie and Asa head to Las Vegas, and then San Francisco to Bangkok, trying to find a relic in exchange for Ben's life.
There was plenty I liked about this book. For starters, I liked Mattie. She's sweet and a little naive and a do-gooder, but not in an annoying way (the do-gooder part). She is fiercely loyal to Ben and doesn't suspect anything bad in terms of him and why he disappeared (she never knew about his money problem, or the magic). Mattie talks a lot and gets on Asa's nerves all the time. She isn't too subtle and she's also a little clumsy. I like her.
I never, ever liked Ben. From the start, I wasn't buying his perfection, his nice-guy act. Sarah Fine writes him in a way that readers are suspicious of him, in Chapter 1. There is something wrong with him that we can't place our fingers on. And then we find out that he owes money, he's an addict, he used magic on Mattie - I never liked him, but I liked him less and less as the story went on. There was nothing Mattie wouldn't do for him, which was pitiful. Even as she found out everything he was doing, she was still bent on finding him. Understandable, you thought you knew your fiance so well, and loved him...
Ben is barely in the book. Thank goodness.
Then there is Asa, who dominates the story. We meet him fairly quickly. He is a sensor, a rare type that can sniff out magic. He's so rare that everyone wants him on their side, so he's always on the run. He doesn't want to be caged in, no matter the price. Asa comes across as a cursing, scolding jerk, but he is actually a loyal and genuine guy. He is very crafty and has good instincts for survival. He's much more sensitive than Mattie initially thought. And he's estranged from his brother for a good reason. Another reason for me to h a t e Ben.
This world's magic is pretty cool. Cool, but also wicked and scary. There are four types: emotion, manipulation, pleasure, and pain. And there are people that wield each type of magic. The magic dens that Mattie finds in search of Ben, where she meets Asa, are full of pleasure (which is what Ben was hooked on, I believe). Mattie was surprised!
One thing I can say about this story (and all of Sarah Fine's books) is that I was never bored, and I couldn't read fast enough. I was apprehensive initially, because of the potential love triangle (I'll get to that), but I couldn't stop reading. So much action! There weren't twists and curveballs at every page, but Asa and Mattie were constantly on the move. The settings were vastly different and well-written, as per usual!
As much as I liked the high stakes and high action and wonderful characters, the next section is going to dose the flames a little.
What I Did Not Like:
There may be slight spoilers in the section, but I'm forging ahead.
I'm not a fan of the romance. We know from the start that Mattie is engaged to Ben, and it's clear that they're both in love and devoted to each other. When Mattie finds out that Ben was hiding so much from her AND manipulating her using magic, she's still determined to find and free him. She's incredibly loyal to him - and like I said before, that's understandable. Even if he is a terrible person. I don't like Ben. He seems too perfect initially, and then we found out how awful of a person he actually is. Not a fan.
What's worse is the obvious love triangle. Mattie has loved Ben for a while now, but it's obvious that after this book, after weeks of traveling with Asa, she has feelings for him. Love and lust all tangled up in one, when it comes to Asa, and unlike with Ben, it seems more real.
Here is the spoiler-y thing I will say - Mattie is engaged to Ben and has obviously had sex with him. She and Asa do not have sex during this book (thank goodness), but they share a lot of intimate interactions. There are a few kisses, though some of them were to distract (at one point, Mattie and Asa had to act like boyfriend/girlfriend to blend in). I hate basically all and any love triangles, and I especially hate how Mattie realizes she wants Asa too, but it's clear that she will never want to be with him. Given the tragic events in Asa's past, it's so unfair that he's alone alone alone. I'm not saying it's Mattie's fault necessarily... but Ben is a terrible person, Mattie clearly has strong feelings for Asa (and vice versa), and Mattie makes the choice, in the end.
I h a t e the ending. I hate it. You can probably guess why. I know this isn't the end of Mattie's story (there are two more books to follow), but as this book stands, I am not a fan of the ending. Part of me understands why Mattie did what she did, but there is one part of the ending that Mattie did that I abhor. I felt a little betrayed by that!
Things I hope for, in book two: for Ben to jump into incoming traffic (he won't), for Mattie to realize what she did (she knows but won't change anything), and for Asa to find some comfort. The poor man needs a hug.
Obviously if you have zero issues with love triangles, you'll be fine. I hate them and that's not going to change - especially with a love triangle like this, in which one of the "options" is a terrible person.
Would I Recommend It:
I can't recommend this book - at least not yet. I'd say wait until the series is completed - which should be in November! Book two publishes in August, and book three in November. I would just wait it out. I want to have faith in Sarah Fine (the romances in her books are usually very linear and SO good!) but this love triangle appearance has me doubting. Also, this book contains very adult scenes, for those wondering!
Rating:
3 stars. 2.5 stars? The thing is, I liked the book. I liked the magic, the world-building, the characters (minus Ben). I did not like the romance. None of it seemed fair to Asa. And that thing Mattie did at the very end? I personally was not a fan. But I want to read the rest of the books in the series, to find out what happens!
July 19, 2019
Ahoy there me mateys! I received this romance fantasy eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. So here are me honest musings . . .
I do not know how I truly feel about this novel. I had major major problems with this book. And yet I want to read the sequel. It’s a conundrum. See I read one previous book by Sarah Fine that was fun - of metal and wishes. NetGalley has her book called splinter which is book two of this series but book one was still available to request so I did. I normally do not put spoilers in me reviews but this shall have some major spoilers and strong language . . . so read further at ye own peril.
So why do I dislike it and like it despite meself? Well the two main characters are bad guy who goes good (Asa) and good girl who goes bad (Mattie). I like Asa in this book. He is by far the most fun character and basically the only reason why I would read book two. Plus he has an awesome dog. Bonus. Mattie is a bit of an idiot who usually rushes into trouble, is naïve in a way that makes me want to knock sense into her, and she solves problems usually by showing off her cleavage while feeling scandalous and titillated by it. Ugh. She is trying to save her fiancée Ben who just happens to be Asa’s brother.
Ben is a major asshole. Mattie discovers he has been keeping secrets from her like: 1) being over $200,000 dollars in debt (at least), being a drug addict (addicted to pleasure magic), and has used magic on her to control her mind (i.e. if they are in a fight he uses it to get his way and it usually ends in sex. Ugh.) So Mattie finds this out and still wants to rescue him. Hell no. I would have dumped his ass immediately. But Mattie doesn’t because she loves him and will save him at all costs because Ben had to have good reasons right? Grrrrrr! I could run Ben through with my cutlass for his treatment of women. He doesn’t love Mattie if that is how he treats her. He is a self-indulgent narcissistic arrogant prick. I hate him and wanted him dead.
But of course the books have a love triangle involving the two brothers and Mattie. Well Asa is cool but I have no idea why he would fall in love with fluff-head Mattie. As for Mattie, well I tried to justify how she would want Ben (i.e. battered woman syndrome) which just made me grumpy and disgusted. Ben wanting Mattie made sense cause she was so controllable in every sense. Ugh. As for Mattie having feelings for Asa - well of course anyone is better than fuckwit Ben. Seriously.
The other issue I had in this book was the BDSM section. It felt so jarring. Mattie has to transfer pain magic and where better to do this but in a dungeon. So Asa takes charge, gives Mattie an alter-ego (Eve), and helps Mattie transfer pain magic and deal with the “bad guilt” of having to do this to save Ben. I mean we are told in the beginning that good girl Mattie loves sex. Okay fine with that. I don’t even have a problem with using BDSM in general, if it works for the story. But it did not work in this one. It felt like a stereotype section just to make Mattie seem more “bad” and to add more angst about “cheating” on Ben. Ugh.
I liked the magic in the world. There are four types: emotion, manipulation, pleasure, and pain. The magic was served in drug dens that resembled old opium dens, at clubs, etc. and is used by the wealthy magic/drug gang elite and corporations to manipulate each other. Mattie is a reliquary which means she can basically store magic inside herself though she cannot use it. Of course since she is kind of a special snowflake perhaps she can magically use magic later in the series. Who knows. The magic concepts were cool but not focused on enough. Angst and lust took up the focus of this book. But I want more world building and exploration of the magic concepts!
But the really obnoxious aspect of the book was the ending. Mattie rescues Ben and chooses to continue with the wedding plans and their future. Umm what? Stupid stupid stupid. And yet despite all that I say in this review and how grumpy the flaws of this book are . . . I am still slightly interested in book two. Why? I have no idea. It’s like not being able to look away when knowing disaster is coming. I don’t usually find the idea of such things fun. I don’t normally like urban fantasy or bad romance. I really don’t like women being used as sexual objects against their will. I have confused myself. Will I read the next one? I guess I will have to wait and see . . .
So lastly . . .
Thank you 47North!
If ye liked this review and want to read me others visit https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
I do not know how I truly feel about this novel. I had major major problems with this book. And yet I want to read the sequel. It’s a conundrum. See I read one previous book by Sarah Fine that was fun - of metal and wishes. NetGalley has her book called splinter which is book two of this series but book one was still available to request so I did. I normally do not put spoilers in me reviews but this shall have some major spoilers and strong language . . . so read further at ye own peril.
So why do I dislike it and like it despite meself? Well the two main characters are bad guy who goes good (Asa) and good girl who goes bad (Mattie). I like Asa in this book. He is by far the most fun character and basically the only reason why I would read book two. Plus he has an awesome dog. Bonus. Mattie is a bit of an idiot who usually rushes into trouble, is naïve in a way that makes me want to knock sense into her, and she solves problems usually by showing off her cleavage while feeling scandalous and titillated by it. Ugh. She is trying to save her fiancée Ben who just happens to be Asa’s brother.
Ben is a major asshole. Mattie discovers he has been keeping secrets from her like: 1) being over $200,000 dollars in debt (at least), being a drug addict (addicted to pleasure magic), and has used magic on her to control her mind (i.e. if they are in a fight he uses it to get his way and it usually ends in sex. Ugh.) So Mattie finds this out and still wants to rescue him. Hell no. I would have dumped his ass immediately. But Mattie doesn’t because she loves him and will save him at all costs because Ben had to have good reasons right? Grrrrrr! I could run Ben through with my cutlass for his treatment of women. He doesn’t love Mattie if that is how he treats her. He is a self-indulgent narcissistic arrogant prick. I hate him and wanted him dead.
But of course the books have a love triangle involving the two brothers and Mattie. Well Asa is cool but I have no idea why he would fall in love with fluff-head Mattie. As for Mattie, well I tried to justify how she would want Ben (i.e. battered woman syndrome) which just made me grumpy and disgusted. Ben wanting Mattie made sense cause she was so controllable in every sense. Ugh. As for Mattie having feelings for Asa - well of course anyone is better than fuckwit Ben. Seriously.
The other issue I had in this book was the BDSM section. It felt so jarring. Mattie has to transfer pain magic and where better to do this but in a dungeon. So Asa takes charge, gives Mattie an alter-ego (Eve), and helps Mattie transfer pain magic and deal with the “bad guilt” of having to do this to save Ben. I mean we are told in the beginning that good girl Mattie loves sex. Okay fine with that. I don’t even have a problem with using BDSM in general, if it works for the story. But it did not work in this one. It felt like a stereotype section just to make Mattie seem more “bad” and to add more angst about “cheating” on Ben. Ugh.
I liked the magic in the world. There are four types: emotion, manipulation, pleasure, and pain. The magic was served in drug dens that resembled old opium dens, at clubs, etc. and is used by the wealthy magic/drug gang elite and corporations to manipulate each other. Mattie is a reliquary which means she can basically store magic inside herself though she cannot use it. Of course since she is kind of a special snowflake perhaps she can magically use magic later in the series. Who knows. The magic concepts were cool but not focused on enough. Angst and lust took up the focus of this book. But I want more world building and exploration of the magic concepts!
But the really obnoxious aspect of the book was the ending. Mattie rescues Ben and chooses to continue with the wedding plans and their future. Umm what? Stupid stupid stupid. And yet despite all that I say in this review and how grumpy the flaws of this book are . . . I am still slightly interested in book two. Why? I have no idea. It’s like not being able to look away when knowing disaster is coming. I don’t usually find the idea of such things fun. I don’t normally like urban fantasy or bad romance. I really don’t like women being used as sexual objects against their will. I have confused myself. Will I read the next one? I guess I will have to wait and see . . .
So lastly . . .
Thank you 47North!
If ye liked this review and want to read me others visit https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2016
Sarah Fine has quickly become one of my favorite authors simply because she writes so well and those stories that she writes, can always be counted on to be something different and something special.
It's no wonder with the different genres she writes in and the unique worlds that she can create that all her books stand out and make people notice them. From the gorgeous covers to the creative writing style, they truly are just fabulous.
And while Reliquary wasn't a favorite of mine, it still had all the qualities that I've come to love and appreciate in Fine's stories.
Still packed full of magic, uniqueness, and characters that demand to be remembered her latest in a new series is something that I think can appeal to a lot of fantasy lovers.
*An ARC copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
It's no wonder with the different genres she writes in and the unique worlds that she can create that all her books stand out and make people notice them. From the gorgeous covers to the creative writing style, they truly are just fabulous.
And while Reliquary wasn't a favorite of mine, it still had all the qualities that I've come to love and appreciate in Fine's stories.
Still packed full of magic, uniqueness, and characters that demand to be remembered her latest in a new series is something that I think can appeal to a lot of fantasy lovers.
*An ARC copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
December 14, 2016
How old are these people? Mattie and Ben are engaged. And Ben is a vet. So I'm guessing over 20. Right? Well, no. They behaved like children! (Even worse, because I can't believe that children would behave in such a way. They're too clever and smart.)
It was ridiculous. From the beginning to the end. OMG, what was I reading? Well, more like skipping the pages. I just wanted to know how it ended.
Ben was an ass. An overgrown, spoiled, addicted, pouting giant baby. "My brother is so bad. He's just so jealous of me, because I'm really fabulous. I love Mattie. And I have a heart condition. But don't you worry, Magic fixed it. Someone bad gave me a cure. For fee! Really! No compensation needed. He just did it for the good of his heart. Bless him! And I use magic on Mattie. So that she's in love with me, and that she desires me. And when we fight, I have this special pendant, and then Mattie will agree to everything I say. This is so cool. I'm the best. And Mattie loves me."
Yeah, it was like that. Gross.
Asa was, well I don't know. I don't like him, but I don't hate him either. He was ok.
I loved Gracie, Asa's dog. What a cutie. I want one for myself. She's a real badass. The best character in this story so far.
Mattie was all over the place. Nervous, naive, sooo in love with Ben and blind. I mean she knows Ben manipulated her from the beginning. With every touch her used Magic on her. And is she upset? No, she forgives him. Just because she doesn't want him to know what happened with Asa. Such a coward. I wouldn't want to be with a men who manipulated me and wanted to manipulate my dying grandpa. No no no, not with me.
The story was really complicated. All this things with the Magic and the vessels. It was really boring how the author explained it all. Due to the first POV all the terms and explanations happened in the conversations between Asa and Mattie (What a name! Don't like it!). So their conversation was boring and stuffy and full of "otherworldly" terms.
To top it all of, there was BDSM-themed scene to crown the story. It was so strange and absurd. Why did they have to go to the dungeon? It seems to me that the author just wanted to spice things up a bit. How could you accomplish this? Yes, spice it up with a little BDSM. Just put Mattie in a corset. Let Asa call her "good girl" (like he calls his dog Gracie). Get Mattie, ups sorry Eve, a collar. A little bit of spanking. And "yes sir's". Put in a Madame and a gag-ball and a few restraints and there you have youre BDSM touched scence. I hate it when this happens. BDSM can be beautifully worked into a story and I really love it when it happens. But this stuff here, total turn off!
Yeah, so. When's the next book out? I don't care!
It was ridiculous. From the beginning to the end. OMG, what was I reading? Well, more like skipping the pages. I just wanted to know how it ended.
Ben was an ass. An overgrown, spoiled, addicted, pouting giant baby. "My brother is so bad. He's just so jealous of me, because I'm really fabulous. I love Mattie. And I have a heart condition. But don't you worry, Magic fixed it. Someone bad gave me a cure. For fee! Really! No compensation needed. He just did it for the good of his heart. Bless him! And I use magic on Mattie. So that she's in love with me, and that she desires me. And when we fight, I have this special pendant, and then Mattie will agree to everything I say. This is so cool. I'm the best. And Mattie loves me."
Yeah, it was like that. Gross.
Asa was, well I don't know. I don't like him, but I don't hate him either. He was ok.
I loved Gracie, Asa's dog. What a cutie. I want one for myself. She's a real badass. The best character in this story so far.
Mattie was all over the place. Nervous, naive, sooo in love with Ben and blind. I mean she knows Ben manipulated her from the beginning. With every touch her used Magic on her. And is she upset? No, she forgives him. Just because she doesn't want him to know what happened with Asa. Such a coward. I wouldn't want to be with a men who manipulated me and wanted to manipulate my dying grandpa. No no no, not with me.
The story was really complicated. All this things with the Magic and the vessels. It was really boring how the author explained it all. Due to the first POV all the terms and explanations happened in the conversations between Asa and Mattie (What a name! Don't like it!). So their conversation was boring and stuffy and full of "otherworldly" terms.
To top it all of, there was BDSM-themed scene to crown the story. It was so strange and absurd. Why did they have to go to the dungeon? It seems to me that the author just wanted to spice things up a bit. How could you accomplish this? Yes, spice it up with a little BDSM. Just put Mattie in a corset. Let Asa call her "good girl" (like he calls his dog Gracie). Get Mattie, ups sorry Eve, a collar. A little bit of spanking. And "yes sir's". Put in a Madame and a gag-ball and a few restraints and there you have youre BDSM touched scence. I hate it when this happens. BDSM can be beautifully worked into a story and I really love it when it happens. But this stuff here, total turn off!
Yeah, so. When's the next book out? I don't care!
July 1, 2023
If you are picking up this book with the hopes of reading a creative story about magic and fantasy, with brilliant world-building and characters to root for who are flawed but heroic, then you have picked up the wrong book. Put it down. However, if you are looking for a book that weaves a vague, hole-ridden plot around various sex scenes, and that only peripherally involves magic in that the world of the novel contains enchanted dildos capable of providing the user with life-changing orgasms, then congratulations, you've found your book.
I don't have a problem with erotica in general but if your book is erotica then market it as such. I HATE being tricked into reading what I think is going to be an interesting urban fantasy only to find that the entire world is created as a different setting for BDSM to take place. Even as erotica this book fails. The characters are typical of a book of this type, the sex is vanilla, and the actual filler of a story is not particularly interesting.
Then there is my real problem, which is the question of why women are constantly being told in these books that we should be sexually attracted to men who are controlling and abusive (the list is long but for example - Outlander, 50 Shades of Gray, Twilight series). I do not find that to be sexy in any way. I'm not turned on by the idea of a man who uses magic to literally remove his partner's ability to consent to sex, nor am I inspired by a female character who, upon finding out that her boyfriend spent the entirety of their relationship mentally and physically violating her, shrugs and continues to view him as the love of her life. Some of the other reviewers talk about how they loved Mattie because she was a strong female character but I see a woman who is suffering the psychological damage of years of abuse.
If that's the kind of literary drivel you enjoy then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I don't have a problem with erotica in general but if your book is erotica then market it as such. I HATE being tricked into reading what I think is going to be an interesting urban fantasy only to find that the entire world is created as a different setting for BDSM to take place. Even as erotica this book fails. The characters are typical of a book of this type, the sex is vanilla, and the actual filler of a story is not particularly interesting.
Then there is my real problem, which is the question of why women are constantly being told in these books that we should be sexually attracted to men who are controlling and abusive (the list is long but for example - Outlander, 50 Shades of Gray, Twilight series). I do not find that to be sexy in any way. I'm not turned on by the idea of a man who uses magic to literally remove his partner's ability to consent to sex, nor am I inspired by a female character who, upon finding out that her boyfriend spent the entirety of their relationship mentally and physically violating her, shrugs and continues to view him as the love of her life. Some of the other reviewers talk about how they loved Mattie because she was a strong female character but I see a woman who is suffering the psychological damage of years of abuse.
If that's the kind of literary drivel you enjoy then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2025
Reliquary is an amazing story of magic, love, and betrayal.
Mattie had the average life, a job and a fiancée. Then Ben, her fiancée, suddenly disappears leaving Mattie searching for answers…answers she never imagined existed…Magic.
Mattie is a very rare and extremely powerful magical beginning. She can capture and store magic without anyone even knowing she has it. This makes Mattie a target to the criminal elements that rule the magic world.
The seduction of the magical world comes at a great cost; can Mattie find what she needs before it takes her away?
Sarah Fine weaves her own magic in this, a new series, Reliquary. I was utterly and completely enthralled by this fantastic tale.
I left Reliquary with a total book hangover, anxiously awaiting the continuation of this tale.
I received this ARC copy of Reliquary from 47North in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication June 14, 2016.
My Rating: 5 stars
Mattie had the average life, a job and a fiancée. Then Ben, her fiancée, suddenly disappears leaving Mattie searching for answers…answers she never imagined existed…Magic.
Mattie is a very rare and extremely powerful magical beginning. She can capture and store magic without anyone even knowing she has it. This makes Mattie a target to the criminal elements that rule the magic world.
The seduction of the magical world comes at a great cost; can Mattie find what she needs before it takes her away?
Sarah Fine weaves her own magic in this, a new series, Reliquary. I was utterly and completely enthralled by this fantastic tale.
I left Reliquary with a total book hangover, anxiously awaiting the continuation of this tale.
I received this ARC copy of Reliquary from 47North in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication June 14, 2016.
My Rating: 5 stars
February 4, 2021
A bumpy two stars, meaning not quite enough to reach 2.5 and be automatically rounded up to 3. I certainly enjoyed the author's ability to tell an exciting story without too many dull moments, and most of all I enjoyed the magic system she has invented--more about that later. Even within the boundaries of that system, though, there were believability issues in a few scenes. Other scenes, including a crucial one, were credible enough but very tough to read (trigger warning: extreme pain inflicted). That was enough to keep my rating below four stars, but there was a bigger drawback that dragged the rating way down: the characters.
The publisher's blurb, reprinted at the head of this Goodreads page, gives an unusually clear summary of the plot, so I'll just add comments to it (avoiding spoilers of course). Mattie Carver is the first-person narrator whom we want to root for as she tries to find and rescue her fiance Ben Ward and encounters overwhelming obstacles. Right in her hometown of Sheboygan she discovers a secret den of addictive magic and learns that Ben was already an addict before he was kidnapped, so she's committed to saving him from both his addiction and his mysterious kidnappers.
Who couldn't cheer for Mattie! I certainly did through the first half of her adventure, and I admired her courage throughout the entire story, but I detached more and more from her as it went on. You see, she finds out more about Ben----who is clearly not worth what she goes through, especially in Thailand and afterward in Utah. She faces death again and again and endures great suffering just to get her happy ending with Ben, despite everything she knows about him, and that leaves me with the feeling that this is a woman with serious psychological problems that are never addressed.
The blurb suggests that Asa Ward, Ben's older brother, is a "darkly alluring" romantic rival to Ben. This guy smuggles powerful magic from one criminal organization to another with little regard for the harm his clients do, and the author's attempt to build him up as a tortured hero simply falls flat. There are plenty of choices he could have made in his life, and he chose quite consciously to wade into the "shadowy underworld" of using magic for power over others. If Asa and Ben are Mattie's only romantic possibilities, celibacy looks very good.
As promised, here's the lowdown on magic in this world. There are four types: Ekstazo causes pleasure (orgasms!) and promotes healing; Strikon causes pain; Knedas causes others to obey, similar to hypnotic suggestion; and Sensilo causes perception of different things--usually peoples' emotions, but Asa has the special kind that perceives the presence of magic. Magic can be implanted into a small object like a fountain pen--one with Ekstazo, for example, is good for half a dozen orgasms before it's depleted, and that's how the magic dens serve their addicted customers.
There are three kinds of people involved: naturals like Asa who wield one of the types of magic; conduits who experience magic temporarily as it passes through them; and reliquaries who store magic that comes from a conduit and release it through a conduit. As the blurb tells us, Mattie discovers she's a reliquary, therefore valuable as a tool for smuggling of stolen magic . Oh please, Mattie, can't you see he's not worth it?
The publisher's blurb, reprinted at the head of this Goodreads page, gives an unusually clear summary of the plot, so I'll just add comments to it (avoiding spoilers of course). Mattie Carver is the first-person narrator whom we want to root for as she tries to find and rescue her fiance Ben Ward and encounters overwhelming obstacles. Right in her hometown of Sheboygan she discovers a secret den of addictive magic and learns that Ben was already an addict before he was kidnapped, so she's committed to saving him from both his addiction and his mysterious kidnappers.
Who couldn't cheer for Mattie! I certainly did through the first half of her adventure, and I admired her courage throughout the entire story, but I detached more and more from her as it went on. You see, she finds out more about Ben----who is clearly not worth what she goes through, especially in Thailand and afterward in Utah. She faces death again and again and endures great suffering just to get her happy ending with Ben, despite everything she knows about him, and that leaves me with the feeling that this is a woman with serious psychological problems that are never addressed.
The blurb suggests that Asa Ward, Ben's older brother, is a "darkly alluring" romantic rival to Ben. This guy smuggles powerful magic from one criminal organization to another with little regard for the harm his clients do, and the author's attempt to build him up as a tortured hero simply falls flat. There are plenty of choices he could have made in his life, and he chose quite consciously to wade into the "shadowy underworld" of using magic for power over others. If Asa and Ben are Mattie's only romantic possibilities, celibacy looks very good.
As promised, here's the lowdown on magic in this world. There are four types: Ekstazo causes pleasure (orgasms!) and promotes healing; Strikon causes pain; Knedas causes others to obey, similar to hypnotic suggestion; and Sensilo causes perception of different things--usually peoples' emotions, but Asa has the special kind that perceives the presence of magic. Magic can be implanted into a small object like a fountain pen--one with Ekstazo, for example, is good for half a dozen orgasms before it's depleted, and that's how the magic dens serve their addicted customers.
There are three kinds of people involved: naturals like Asa who wield one of the types of magic; conduits who experience magic temporarily as it passes through them; and reliquaries who store magic that comes from a conduit and release it through a conduit. As the blurb tells us, Mattie discovers she's a reliquary, therefore valuable as a tool for smuggling of stolen magic . Oh please, Mattie, can't you see he's not worth it?
September 5, 2016
I love Sarah Fine's writing, so when I saw this book on Amazon, I got it without even reading the synopsis.
I loved it!
The author is incredibly creative with her stories and the worlds she places her characters in.
This story is centered around Mattie, blonde, beautiful, smart, college-educated, and engaged to Ben, a handsome veterinarian -- really a fairy book life. And it's the life she's always dreamed of -- a house in the 'burbs, 2.5 kids with the man of her dreams ... yeah, her dreams are all coming true.
Until Ben is kidnapped, his pacemaker brutally ripped from his chest putting his life in greater danger.
Mattie is not satisfied with the police's investigation, and the police are pretty annoyed at her persistent badgering. When Mattie finally gets a lead -- a tenuous one -- the police scoff, so Mattie decides to follow up on her own.
She discovers a shadowy underworld of magic, real magic that is bought, sold, bartered, smuggled and stolen. She also finds Ben's estranged brother, Asa, a criminal who will only help Mattie find Ben if she helps him with his magical smuggling enterprise.
Mattie is determined to do whatever it takes to save her fiancé.
Like I said, I loved this story -- it's fun, edge of your seat excitement.
And watching Mattie as she struggles with the real world, doing things she never thought she would, things that are completely outside her comfort zone, well, it's wonderfully written and fun to read.
I loved it!
The author is incredibly creative with her stories and the worlds she places her characters in.
This story is centered around Mattie, blonde, beautiful, smart, college-educated, and engaged to Ben, a handsome veterinarian -- really a fairy book life. And it's the life she's always dreamed of -- a house in the 'burbs, 2.5 kids with the man of her dreams ... yeah, her dreams are all coming true.
Until Ben is kidnapped, his pacemaker brutally ripped from his chest putting his life in greater danger.
Mattie is not satisfied with the police's investigation, and the police are pretty annoyed at her persistent badgering. When Mattie finally gets a lead -- a tenuous one -- the police scoff, so Mattie decides to follow up on her own.
She discovers a shadowy underworld of magic, real magic that is bought, sold, bartered, smuggled and stolen. She also finds Ben's estranged brother, Asa, a criminal who will only help Mattie find Ben if she helps him with his magical smuggling enterprise.
Mattie is determined to do whatever it takes to save her fiancé.
Like I said, I loved this story -- it's fun, edge of your seat excitement.
And watching Mattie as she struggles with the real world, doing things she never thought she would, things that are completely outside her comfort zone, well, it's wonderfully written and fun to read.
June 22, 2016
Sarah Fine is one of my favorite authors. I have yet to read a book by her that I didn't like. As much as I adore her YA books, her adult series, Marked, is my favorite series from her because they are dark, gritty and sexy. When she mentioned that she had an exciting new adult UF series out, I was pumped, but also a bit wary after reading the summary because it mentioned a fiance and his brother. Despite warnings, I still gave Reliquary a try and I'm really really glad I decided to go with my instincts here, because I had a wonderful time reading this book, getting to know these characters and being introduced to this incredible magic system.
Mattie Carver wakes up the morning after her engagement party to find her fiance, Ben, missing. Reliquary is told in Mattie's point of view and I loved being inside her head. With her caring and selfless attitudes, she was very likeable. I also liked how she was so determined to go after her fiance and to save his life, despite facing obstacles and discovering secrets about Ben that threatened the foundations of their relationship. As Mattie discovers more about her abilities as a reliquary, a powerful magical vessel and about the magic system she finds herself ensconced in, she matured as a character, becoming stronger, braver and more independent. On her journey to save Ben, she meets Asa, Ben's estranged older brother, who in my opinion, was sexy as sin. I was intrigued by Asa's character because he had that dark and broody thing going on with all the secrets he seemed to have. He was rough around the edges, complicated, but when he allowed his emotions to bubble up? I was a goner. Asa was interesting to me because most of Sarah Fine's heroes have been swoony good guys, who I have loved loved loved. I'm usually not for the bad boy kind of love interest, but I had hearts in my eyes every time Asa was in a scene. Eventually, his painful and sad past came to light in Reliquary and my heart broke into pieces for this guy. He may have exuded a tough exterior, but he was a marshmallow, especially once he got attached to Mattie and when it came to his dog, Gracie. His protective nature and his good heart made him one of my top book boyfriends.
As much as I loved the characters, I was more fascinated by the magic system in the book. It's one that I have never encountered in a book myself so it was fresh, creative and exciting to read about. The magic fell into four different categories : Sensilo (sensing), Ekstazo (pleasure), Knedas (manipulation) and Strikon (pain). As with all of Sarah Fine's books, the world building was brilliant. She has a way of writing books that makes her world building flow seamlessly, which also makes it easier for readers to grasp their intricacies. I love that when I dive into a book by her, I find myself completely immersed in it. Reliquary's world building was fantastic, and there's so much more to explore here, so I'm undeniably very excited to get to the sequel. The plot was terrific too. Asa and Mattie travel across the US and even to Bangkok and it was definitely not an easy and obstacle-free journey. There was a lot of action here, with people constantly chasing Asa and Mattie and endangering their lives as they raced to obtain a relic that will allow Ben to be delivered safely. I loved every minute of Reliquary. By the end of the book, I was breathless. Reliquary was the kind of the book that was really hard to put down because it's just so entertaining. The book didn't end in a cliffhanger, but I'm still really excited to get my hands on the next one.
Let me get to the romance. I'm not going to lie, it's a triangle, but here's the thing, to me, it was very obvious who the endgame of this series is and it's clear that one of the guys is not at all who Mattie has made up to be - so, it didn't upset me as I thought it would. While there is no cheating in this book, Mattie and Asa undeniably had an emotional connection between them that didn't come close to what Mattie had with Ben. Basically, I just want everyone to not be too scared of the triangle label because from my understanding of the synopsis for Splintered, it gets resolved early on. And honestly, the romance wasn't a huge part of this first book, so it would be a shame to miss out on the rest of the epicness that Reliquary has going.
If you're a Sarah Fine fan, I can't recommend Reliquary enough. And if you still aren't a fan of Sarah Fine yet, then I need for all of you to go ahead and pick up any series by her - she is an incredible author that everyone needs to discover. Reliquary was an edgy and sexy start to a series that's bound to only get dark, grittier and more romantic. Good thing all the books release this year because I don't know how I could wait for 2 years for the series to be completed!
Mattie Carver wakes up the morning after her engagement party to find her fiance, Ben, missing. Reliquary is told in Mattie's point of view and I loved being inside her head. With her caring and selfless attitudes, she was very likeable. I also liked how she was so determined to go after her fiance and to save his life, despite facing obstacles and discovering secrets about Ben that threatened the foundations of their relationship. As Mattie discovers more about her abilities as a reliquary, a powerful magical vessel and about the magic system she finds herself ensconced in, she matured as a character, becoming stronger, braver and more independent. On her journey to save Ben, she meets Asa, Ben's estranged older brother, who in my opinion, was sexy as sin. I was intrigued by Asa's character because he had that dark and broody thing going on with all the secrets he seemed to have. He was rough around the edges, complicated, but when he allowed his emotions to bubble up? I was a goner. Asa was interesting to me because most of Sarah Fine's heroes have been swoony good guys, who I have loved loved loved. I'm usually not for the bad boy kind of love interest, but I had hearts in my eyes every time Asa was in a scene. Eventually, his painful and sad past came to light in Reliquary and my heart broke into pieces for this guy. He may have exuded a tough exterior, but he was a marshmallow, especially once he got attached to Mattie and when it came to his dog, Gracie. His protective nature and his good heart made him one of my top book boyfriends.
As much as I loved the characters, I was more fascinated by the magic system in the book. It's one that I have never encountered in a book myself so it was fresh, creative and exciting to read about. The magic fell into four different categories : Sensilo (sensing), Ekstazo (pleasure), Knedas (manipulation) and Strikon (pain). As with all of Sarah Fine's books, the world building was brilliant. She has a way of writing books that makes her world building flow seamlessly, which also makes it easier for readers to grasp their intricacies. I love that when I dive into a book by her, I find myself completely immersed in it. Reliquary's world building was fantastic, and there's so much more to explore here, so I'm undeniably very excited to get to the sequel. The plot was terrific too. Asa and Mattie travel across the US and even to Bangkok and it was definitely not an easy and obstacle-free journey. There was a lot of action here, with people constantly chasing Asa and Mattie and endangering their lives as they raced to obtain a relic that will allow Ben to be delivered safely. I loved every minute of Reliquary. By the end of the book, I was breathless. Reliquary was the kind of the book that was really hard to put down because it's just so entertaining. The book didn't end in a cliffhanger, but I'm still really excited to get my hands on the next one.
Let me get to the romance. I'm not going to lie, it's a triangle, but here's the thing, to me, it was very obvious who the endgame of this series is and it's clear that one of the guys is not at all who Mattie has made up to be - so, it didn't upset me as I thought it would. While there is no cheating in this book, Mattie and Asa undeniably had an emotional connection between them that didn't come close to what Mattie had with Ben. Basically, I just want everyone to not be too scared of the triangle label because from my understanding of the synopsis for Splintered, it gets resolved early on. And honestly, the romance wasn't a huge part of this first book, so it would be a shame to miss out on the rest of the epicness that Reliquary has going.
If you're a Sarah Fine fan, I can't recommend Reliquary enough. And if you still aren't a fan of Sarah Fine yet, then I need for all of you to go ahead and pick up any series by her - she is an incredible author that everyone needs to discover. Reliquary was an edgy and sexy start to a series that's bound to only get dark, grittier and more romantic. Good thing all the books release this year because I don't know how I could wait for 2 years for the series to be completed!
Read
June 19, 2016DNF
Не, не вынесла душа поэта.
Слишком много NA-шных преувеличенных чуЙств и фальши. Не верю, как бездарному актеру. Магия неплоха, задумка тоже, но подача и "голос" - совсем не мое.
Однако отмечу, что я в принципе NA не переношу за редчайшими исключениями. А тут автор явно не могла определиться, какую же нишу занять, и несмотря на теги "Adult" и даже "YA" (откуда дровишки...), скатилась скорее именно в NA.
Короче, мимо.
Надеюсь, другим повезет больше.
Не, не вынесла душа поэта.
Слишком много NA-шных преувеличенных чуЙств и фальши. Не верю, как бездарному актеру. Магия неплоха, задумка тоже, но подача и "голос" - совсем не мое.
Однако отмечу, что я в принципе NA не переношу за редчайшими исключениями. А тут автор явно не могла определиться, какую же нишу занять, и несмотря на теги "Adult" и даже "YA" (откуда дровишки...), скатилась скорее именно в NA.
Короче, мимо.
Надеюсь, другим повезет больше.
March 24, 2018
I'm so mad with the ending of this damn book. BEN REALLY?!? WHY HIM?!?
Reliquary was a really interesting book until I read the epilogue. I'm not a fan of who she decided to stay with.. I would've picked Asa over Ben any given day. Ben is a douche bag who doesn't deserve love or being saved. Asa was the way better brother in my opinion. Plus the chemistry between Asa and Mattie was amazing!
Speaking of Mattie, she is the MC who makes terrible decisions: like BEN. Yes, I'm still salty about that and probably will be for like ever. I liked her character in the beginning, and in the middle of the book, but not at the ending. She deserves those panic attacks for pissing me off. She always was annoying at times. I just wanted her to acknowledge her feelings for Asa and then do something about it. Just forget about Ben - I sure did!
Overall, it could've been better. However, I still enjoyed the heck out of this book. I can't wait to dive into the second one!
Reliquary was a really interesting book until I read the epilogue. I'm not a fan of who she decided to stay with.. I would've picked Asa over Ben any given day. Ben is a douche bag who doesn't deserve love or being saved. Asa was the way better brother in my opinion. Plus the chemistry between Asa and Mattie was amazing!
Speaking of Mattie, she is the MC who makes terrible decisions: like BEN. Yes, I'm still salty about that and probably will be for like ever. I liked her character in the beginning, and in the middle of the book, but not at the ending. She deserves those panic attacks for pissing me off. She always was annoying at times. I just wanted her to acknowledge her feelings for Asa and then do something about it. Just forget about Ben - I sure did!
Overall, it could've been better. However, I still enjoyed the heck out of this book. I can't wait to dive into the second one!
July 29, 2016
Alluring concept, that unfortunately gets lost with lackluster characters
Book Title: Reliquary
Author: Sarah Fine
Series: Reliquary #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Fantasy
Source: Kindle E-Book (Prime Borrow)
☆My Pick for Book Theme Song: I've Got The Magic in Me by B.0.B. --Well, she kind of does this thing with magic…
Ratings Breakdown
Plot: 3.8/5
Characters: 3.2/5
The Feels: 3/5
Addictiveness: 3.5/5
Flow: 3.5/5
Backdrop (World Building): 4/5
Originality: 4.2/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Ending: 3/5 Cliffhanger: Not exactly, but hopefully she wises up for the next book, maybe grows a little more backbone…
Will I continue this series? I have an arc of the second book…so I probably should.
My Thoughts
While I was reading this, I felt like something was off, and it was the same thing that was off for me in the Servants of the Fate Series by her too. I think I prefer Sarah Fine's YA books over her adult ones. With all that being said I did warm up to this book eventually.
I did struggle at first, the characters were a little cheesy for me, I couldn't really connect with them, they were lacking in depth. It's possible that Asa is growing on me, though. The magic element was ultimately intriguing and saved me from quitting this all together. Sarah Fine does not lack imagination. The last third of the book wasn't bad, I actually became a little addicted, even.
Sex Factor: While there's not much sex in this…it is rather sexual at times. And just a little bit kinky.
Book Title: Reliquary
Author: Sarah Fine
Series: Reliquary #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Fantasy
Source: Kindle E-Book (Prime Borrow)
☆My Pick for Book Theme Song: I've Got The Magic in Me by B.0.B. --Well, she kind of does this thing with magic…
Ratings Breakdown
Plot: 3.8/5
Characters: 3.2/5
The Feels: 3/5
Addictiveness: 3.5/5
Flow: 3.5/5
Backdrop (World Building): 4/5
Originality: 4.2/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Ending: 3/5 Cliffhanger: Not exactly, but hopefully she wises up for the next book, maybe grows a little more backbone…
Will I continue this series? I have an arc of the second book…so I probably should.
3.5/5 STARS
My Thoughts
While I was reading this, I felt like something was off, and it was the same thing that was off for me in the Servants of the Fate Series by her too. I think I prefer Sarah Fine's YA books over her adult ones. With all that being said I did warm up to this book eventually.
I did struggle at first, the characters were a little cheesy for me, I couldn't really connect with them, they were lacking in depth. It's possible that Asa is growing on me, though. The magic element was ultimately intriguing and saved me from quitting this all together. Sarah Fine does not lack imagination. The last third of the book wasn't bad, I actually became a little addicted, even.
Sex Factor: While there's not much sex in this…it is rather sexual at times. And just a little bit kinky.
June 29, 2017
I just couldn't get into this story. Maddie seemed purposely dense & TSTL. Her readily ignoring Ben's actions seemed illogical. DNF
Letter q in Cliterary genius A to Z challenge
Letter q in Cliterary genius A to Z challenge
June 17, 2019
What a great first book it has surpassed all of my expectation draws you in from the first two chapters.
July 23, 2025
I enjoyed this book. The magic system was unique enough to keep me interested. Has some spice, but I feel like it was well done and not over the top. I would recommend.
October 2, 2016
I found this book because I read some of Sarah Fine's YA books and thoroughly enjoyed them. But weirdly enough, while this is technically "adult" compared to Fine's other books, the whole thing reads as infinitely more childish.
There's a reason I stay away from the new adult genre and adult romance novels: the icky, terribly-written sex. I don't consider myself a prude, but if I have to read these graphic descriptions of what characters are doing to one another, I want there to be something more behind it--likable characters, an interesting plot, actions that feel authentic to the story. I don't want a story that is terribly set up just for the sake of some erotic scenes. Reliquary had the potential to be really interesting, but it seems to all be a thin disguise for weird-ass magical sex. And it's also...awfully written? I find a book that uses magical objects called "fuck sticks" and various scenes where characters fool around with magical dildos uncomfortable, a turn-off, and actually juvenile, because it felt like Fine was trying too hard to be risqué and "adult."
But even if you ignore the sex stuff, Reliquary isn't a particularly good read. The plot is underdeveloped and hastily sped through, no one's reaction in any of the situations seemed authentic, and the characters were cliched cardboard cut-outs. Mattie is an obvious stand in for Fine herself, or any girl who finds Asa, our main guy character, to be hot stuff. And supposedly super sexy Asa did absolutely nothing for me. It should be noted that I've never liked the scowling, broody love interests anyway, but this guy had controlling undertones and came off looking like such an obnoxious "dark, mysterious sex figure" personal fantasy that it was hard to take him seriously. And if he "knowingly tapped his nose" one more time, I was going to break off his fingers.
And I was more than a little disappointed - and disturbed - at how easily the story glossed over the abuse element. Get this: the protagonist learns that her fiancé has been controlling her with magic for perhaps all of their relationship - manipulating her very thoughts and feelings - and she doesn't bat an eye. How can she not have serious trust issues? How can she not question her feelings for him, for even the slightest moment? This is a HUGE deal and the story treats it like it's nothing. What should have been an earth-shattering revelation was treated like absolutely nothing. Mattie is aggravatingly naive throughout the book, always listening to other people and never taking any initiative herself, but the way she completely overlooked a serious case of mind-rape was really the nail in the coffin.
For a majority of the book, I just didn't care for the characters or the story and the whole thing failed to hold my interest, but somewhere around the halfway mark, I became legitimately icked out. Disgusting BDSM elements come into play and it was like I was reading an entirely different book - it was like I'd stumbled into someone's personal sex fantasy. Hearing someone say "I am dependent on you, sir" is not sexy; controlling, creepy men are not attractive. I've never actually read Fifty Shades of Gray but I can only imagine that this is the tamer, magic-soaked version. And it's not sexy at all. Why are people so into these possessive, domineering men and the women who completely give in to their every order? I can hardly think of anything more off-putting and yet there's clearly a huge market for this stuff. And to know that this was from Fine, who has handled romance so well in her other books - this was a huge disappointment.
It's a shame, because I loved Fine's Of Metal and Wishes series and The Impostor Queen. And the concept of Reliquary and the underground magical world was super cool. But this book needed to be written like one of her YA novels - which is not me saying it should be dumbed down. But I know Fine's writing can be more polished and sophisticated than this mess and her publishing team at whatever YA press she uses clearly got it out of her. I know from Fine's personal notes that this book was a pet project of hers, one that helped her get through a very difficult time in her life, and I respect that. But in order for Reliquary to be fit to share with the world, it needed to undergo some serious revision and tonal changes. Not a fan, and I will not be continuing with this series.
1 star.
There's a reason I stay away from the new adult genre and adult romance novels: the icky, terribly-written sex. I don't consider myself a prude, but if I have to read these graphic descriptions of what characters are doing to one another, I want there to be something more behind it--likable characters, an interesting plot, actions that feel authentic to the story. I don't want a story that is terribly set up just for the sake of some erotic scenes. Reliquary had the potential to be really interesting, but it seems to all be a thin disguise for weird-ass magical sex. And it's also...awfully written? I find a book that uses magical objects called "fuck sticks" and various scenes where characters fool around with magical dildos uncomfortable, a turn-off, and actually juvenile, because it felt like Fine was trying too hard to be risqué and "adult."
But even if you ignore the sex stuff, Reliquary isn't a particularly good read. The plot is underdeveloped and hastily sped through, no one's reaction in any of the situations seemed authentic, and the characters were cliched cardboard cut-outs. Mattie is an obvious stand in for Fine herself, or any girl who finds Asa, our main guy character, to be hot stuff. And supposedly super sexy Asa did absolutely nothing for me. It should be noted that I've never liked the scowling, broody love interests anyway, but this guy had controlling undertones and came off looking like such an obnoxious "dark, mysterious sex figure" personal fantasy that it was hard to take him seriously. And if he "knowingly tapped his nose" one more time, I was going to break off his fingers.
And I was more than a little disappointed - and disturbed - at how easily the story glossed over the abuse element. Get this: the protagonist learns that her fiancé has been controlling her with magic for perhaps all of their relationship - manipulating her very thoughts and feelings - and she doesn't bat an eye. How can she not have serious trust issues? How can she not question her feelings for him, for even the slightest moment? This is a HUGE deal and the story treats it like it's nothing. What should have been an earth-shattering revelation was treated like absolutely nothing. Mattie is aggravatingly naive throughout the book, always listening to other people and never taking any initiative herself, but the way she completely overlooked a serious case of mind-rape was really the nail in the coffin.
For a majority of the book, I just didn't care for the characters or the story and the whole thing failed to hold my interest, but somewhere around the halfway mark, I became legitimately icked out. Disgusting BDSM elements come into play and it was like I was reading an entirely different book - it was like I'd stumbled into someone's personal sex fantasy. Hearing someone say "I am dependent on you, sir" is not sexy; controlling, creepy men are not attractive. I've never actually read Fifty Shades of Gray but I can only imagine that this is the tamer, magic-soaked version. And it's not sexy at all. Why are people so into these possessive, domineering men and the women who completely give in to their every order? I can hardly think of anything more off-putting and yet there's clearly a huge market for this stuff. And to know that this was from Fine, who has handled romance so well in her other books - this was a huge disappointment.
It's a shame, because I loved Fine's Of Metal and Wishes series and The Impostor Queen. And the concept of Reliquary and the underground magical world was super cool. But this book needed to be written like one of her YA novels - which is not me saying it should be dumbed down. But I know Fine's writing can be more polished and sophisticated than this mess and her publishing team at whatever YA press she uses clearly got it out of her. I know from Fine's personal notes that this book was a pet project of hers, one that helped her get through a very difficult time in her life, and I respect that. But in order for Reliquary to be fit to share with the world, it needed to undergo some serious revision and tonal changes. Not a fan, and I will not be continuing with this series.
1 star.
June 18, 2016
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 3-3.5
*My Thoughts*
Overall, a good and entertaining story, except for the ending which I am raging against the machine over. Anyway.........
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Published* June 14th 2016 by 47North
*Genre* Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 3-3.5
*My Thoughts*
Overall, a good and entertaining story, except for the ending which I am raging against the machine over. Anyway.........
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Published* June 14th 2016 by 47North
March 11, 2018
All of Mattie Carver's dreams were about to come true. She was about to marry the perfect man and live the perfect suburban dream life with him, but when Ben is abducted the night after their engagement party, Mattie's dream starts to fray at the edges. Like any naive fiance, she starts her own investigation into his kidnapping. She finds out that her mild mannered veterinarian boyfriend is really an addict of a drug called magic and owes a ton of money to everyone. In her pursuit of this lead, she runs into Ben's estranged brother, Asa, who reluctantly becomes her guide into this dangerous world. Mattie also learns that she has a place in this world when she discovers she is a reliquary - a living storage container for magic. Asa and Mattie have to use her gift if they want to get Ben back from the unsavories that took him.
Initially, I was a little annoyed with Mattie's character, but I think I was supposed to be. As her character develops, the things that annoyed me about her end up being the things that make her vulnerable and likeable. This book was full of suspense and action and quite a few surprises. I really liked it and can't wait to dive into the next one so I can find out what happens with Ben, Asa and Mattie.
Initially, I was a little annoyed with Mattie's character, but I think I was supposed to be. As her character develops, the things that annoyed me about her end up being the things that make her vulnerable and likeable. This book was full of suspense and action and quite a few surprises. I really liked it and can't wait to dive into the next one so I can find out what happens with Ben, Asa and Mattie.
July 24, 2016
Reliquary by Sarah Fine is a book I came across while skimming through my Facebook feed. I happen to follow Sarah and have read a number of her books so when I saw this one (have you seen the cover??) and read the summary, I knew I needed to get this one to read.
Mattie Carver is one of those characters that I found myself liking but at times found her annoying. I think it is mostly because of her relationship with Ben. It drove me crazy and I couldn’t believe she was willing to put up with the things she did. She made some decisions that I didn’t agree with which annoyed me. Other than that, she is a strong character. It is clear she is willing to do whatever she needs to (to the point where she is very willing to martyr herself if necessary) to protect the people she loves and cares about. Ben is a perfect example of this.
I loved how close Mattie is with her family. This is one of the things that impacts most of her decisions and when the book starts, it is actually at her engagement party where we get to see a bit of her relationship both with her parents and her grandfather. It is revealed that her grandfather isn’t doing so well (health wise) and eventually Mattie learns more about his past. I mention it because it relates to a secret that not a lot of people know about him. See, Mattie comes from a line of magic and it just happens that she is a Reliquary. Someone who can carry (absorb and transfer) magic within herself.
The story itself revolves around the magic and truly begins when the day after their engagement party, Ben goes missing. In her search to find him, Mattie learns a lot of his secrets and truly what he has been up to. While searching, she crosses paths with Asa, Ben’s brother and finds herself mixed up in some dangerous situations because of who Asa is, what Ben has been up to, and what Mattie herself is capable of.
I really enjoyed Asa as a character. He and Ben are not close but he is determined to find him and if he can, protect Ben from himself. He knows what Ben has been up to and while he doesn’t respect him, Asa is willing to do what he needs to in order to help him. At first, when Asa and Mattie cross paths, they definitely do not get along either but because they are spending a lot of time together and are in positions where they have to trust each other, an understanding builds between them and they eventually come to feel more for each other than they expected. Of course, Mattie is engaged to Ben so things are destined to be hard for both.
I will say here, that although their relationship changes, Mattie doesn’t really ever do anything to compromise herself (in my opinion) with Asa. With that said, I also don’t think she was making her decisions around Asa and Ben with any thought other than what her ideal perfect life should be. A handsome husband, a home, and a great business.
Fine always does a wonderful job of not only developing her characters but also the worlds they live in. In this case, the underworld of magic and all the different types of individuals out there that one could cross paths with. I loved learning all about the good ones and bad ones as well as who these characters truly were.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I admit, I was very glad to see that book two is scheduled to come out really soon because I need to know what happens with these characters! If you are looking for a great paranormal fantasy that will take you around the world and introduce you to an interesting world of magic, definitely check this one out!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy!
Mattie Carver is one of those characters that I found myself liking but at times found her annoying. I think it is mostly because of her relationship with Ben. It drove me crazy and I couldn’t believe she was willing to put up with the things she did. She made some decisions that I didn’t agree with which annoyed me. Other than that, she is a strong character. It is clear she is willing to do whatever she needs to (to the point where she is very willing to martyr herself if necessary) to protect the people she loves and cares about. Ben is a perfect example of this.
I loved how close Mattie is with her family. This is one of the things that impacts most of her decisions and when the book starts, it is actually at her engagement party where we get to see a bit of her relationship both with her parents and her grandfather. It is revealed that her grandfather isn’t doing so well (health wise) and eventually Mattie learns more about his past. I mention it because it relates to a secret that not a lot of people know about him. See, Mattie comes from a line of magic and it just happens that she is a Reliquary. Someone who can carry (absorb and transfer) magic within herself.
The story itself revolves around the magic and truly begins when the day after their engagement party, Ben goes missing. In her search to find him, Mattie learns a lot of his secrets and truly what he has been up to. While searching, she crosses paths with Asa, Ben’s brother and finds herself mixed up in some dangerous situations because of who Asa is, what Ben has been up to, and what Mattie herself is capable of.
I really enjoyed Asa as a character. He and Ben are not close but he is determined to find him and if he can, protect Ben from himself. He knows what Ben has been up to and while he doesn’t respect him, Asa is willing to do what he needs to in order to help him. At first, when Asa and Mattie cross paths, they definitely do not get along either but because they are spending a lot of time together and are in positions where they have to trust each other, an understanding builds between them and they eventually come to feel more for each other than they expected. Of course, Mattie is engaged to Ben so things are destined to be hard for both.
I will say here, that although their relationship changes, Mattie doesn’t really ever do anything to compromise herself (in my opinion) with Asa. With that said, I also don’t think she was making her decisions around Asa and Ben with any thought other than what her ideal perfect life should be. A handsome husband, a home, and a great business.
Fine always does a wonderful job of not only developing her characters but also the worlds they live in. In this case, the underworld of magic and all the different types of individuals out there that one could cross paths with. I loved learning all about the good ones and bad ones as well as who these characters truly were.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I admit, I was very glad to see that book two is scheduled to come out really soon because I need to know what happens with these characters! If you are looking for a great paranormal fantasy that will take you around the world and introduce you to an interesting world of magic, definitely check this one out!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy!
June 14, 2016
Sarah Fine really burst onto the scene as an author to watch. She writes YA and Adult Fiction in a number of genres — fantasy, urban fantasy, steampunk, sci-fi and dystopian. She broke out with her indie hit Sanctum in 2012, finishing that series up quickly and putting out the duology Of Metal and Wishes and Of Dreams and Rust. Next, she collaborated with Walter Jury in the sci-fi series, Scan. The Imposter Queen followed, receiving acclaim for its sexually diverse characters. Oh, and on top of that, she put out an adult trilogy, Servants of Fate. Sarah Fine did all this within the last few years. The woman is a workhorse and I love it.
Sarah Fine's Newest Book, Reliquary
Her most recent release is the beginning of a new adult series, Reliquary. Immediately, I engaged fully in the story, which has a marvelous hook — magic exists and it's addictive. Our protagonist, Mattie, is a small-town girl, a veterinary assistant set to marry her boss, her beloved Ben Ward. But the morning after their engagement party, Ben is brutally abducted. Mattie is desperate to find him, even when she discovers that Ben is a magic user and addict. To rescue Ben, she must travel down a proverbial rabbit hole, and her guide turns out to be someone most unexpected.
Reliquary wasn't a perfect book, but it was a great piece of escapism. Like I mentioned before, I was engaged in the story. I kept making gleeful predictions about what would happen next, feeling highly gratified when I was correct and shocked when I was wrong. I was locked in.
My favorite character was the highly distinct Asa, a battered, yet determined man, as tough as he is quirky. Mattie herself took second place. She has a nice character arc, starting out naive, with simple goals, and growing stronger and more wily with each passing chapter. Third place goes to Gracie the pitbull, a minor character, but highly charming.
Most of all, what I take away from Reliquary is my burning need to keep reading the story. Thankfully, I'll only have to wait until August 2 to read book two in the trilogy. Thank you, Sarah Fine, for working so hard and so quickly.
Sarah Fine's Newest Book, Reliquary
Her most recent release is the beginning of a new adult series, Reliquary. Immediately, I engaged fully in the story, which has a marvelous hook — magic exists and it's addictive. Our protagonist, Mattie, is a small-town girl, a veterinary assistant set to marry her boss, her beloved Ben Ward. But the morning after their engagement party, Ben is brutally abducted. Mattie is desperate to find him, even when she discovers that Ben is a magic user and addict. To rescue Ben, she must travel down a proverbial rabbit hole, and her guide turns out to be someone most unexpected.
Reliquary wasn't a perfect book, but it was a great piece of escapism. Like I mentioned before, I was engaged in the story. I kept making gleeful predictions about what would happen next, feeling highly gratified when I was correct and shocked when I was wrong. I was locked in.
My favorite character was the highly distinct Asa, a battered, yet determined man, as tough as he is quirky. Mattie herself took second place. She has a nice character arc, starting out naive, with simple goals, and growing stronger and more wily with each passing chapter. Third place goes to Gracie the pitbull, a minor character, but highly charming.
Most of all, what I take away from Reliquary is my burning need to keep reading the story. Thankfully, I'll only have to wait until August 2 to read book two in the trilogy. Thank you, Sarah Fine, for working so hard and so quickly.
February 17, 2018
http://celebrityreaders.com/2018/02/1...
Man, this book was awesome. It was so awesome I immediately read the rest of the series back to back. And if you know me at all, I rarely do that.
This book had such an original plot to it. Magic being addictive, it took hooked on drugs to a whole new level. And I really liked the parallels it had between real life and fantasy. Just wonderful all the way around.
Now Mattie was a terrible female lead IMO. But I liked her enough to finish the book. Mainly because the plot and supporting characters carried it. You know we love growth and depth of characters but she was about as deep as a puddle folks. So, I read on because I wanted to see how the author would make her grow. She didn’t, at least not enough for me to like her all that much by the end of the book. Her character was a bit flat for me. She was immature, naive and quite boring to be exact.
The real hero of this story is Asa. This is not unusual for me to like the male lead more than the female lead. I am pretty hard on my own sex for some reason. I always end up expecting more from them I guess. Anyway, Asa was the hugest asshole you ever laid eyes on. He was not what I call ‘book’ attractive. He was what you would assume someone looked like who had been rode hard and put away wet if you know what I mean. (and if you don’t, google is a wonderful tool for research) I especially loved how he lived his life. How he was able to be in the magic world, be a part of it yet keep a significant distance from it at the same time. I mean, once you you are an addict, you are always an addict, you just find different coping mechanisms to deal with it. And Asa was the poster child for coping mechanisms. I identified with him so hard! I loved his edginess, how it contrasted with his love for his dog. How he bitched about being a sucker for doing the right thing yet always ended up doing it. He was like the anti-hero! It was just a great book.
Man, this book was awesome. It was so awesome I immediately read the rest of the series back to back. And if you know me at all, I rarely do that.
This book had such an original plot to it. Magic being addictive, it took hooked on drugs to a whole new level. And I really liked the parallels it had between real life and fantasy. Just wonderful all the way around.
Now Mattie was a terrible female lead IMO. But I liked her enough to finish the book. Mainly because the plot and supporting characters carried it. You know we love growth and depth of characters but she was about as deep as a puddle folks. So, I read on because I wanted to see how the author would make her grow. She didn’t, at least not enough for me to like her all that much by the end of the book. Her character was a bit flat for me. She was immature, naive and quite boring to be exact.
The real hero of this story is Asa. This is not unusual for me to like the male lead more than the female lead. I am pretty hard on my own sex for some reason. I always end up expecting more from them I guess. Anyway, Asa was the hugest asshole you ever laid eyes on. He was not what I call ‘book’ attractive. He was what you would assume someone looked like who had been rode hard and put away wet if you know what I mean. (and if you don’t, google is a wonderful tool for research) I especially loved how he lived his life. How he was able to be in the magic world, be a part of it yet keep a significant distance from it at the same time. I mean, once you you are an addict, you are always an addict, you just find different coping mechanisms to deal with it. And Asa was the poster child for coping mechanisms. I identified with him so hard! I loved his edginess, how it contrasted with his love for his dog. How he bitched about being a sucker for doing the right thing yet always ended up doing it. He was like the anti-hero! It was just a great book.
August 3, 2016
3 stars - I liked it, but...
I liked a lot about Reliquary. Sarah Fine certainly creates interesting worlds (loved her 'Marked' world too.) Here there is magic in the world - with certain individuals having different kinds of magic which can produce lust or pain or which can be used to compel people and certain other people able to sense magic, or transfer magic into objects that can be used by non magical people. But what really makes things interesting is the fact that magic use is wrapped in all the trappings of illegal drugs - addictions, secret magic using rooms, smuggling and all of that controlled by mob like bosses.
Mattie discovers that hidden world when her fiance disappears and she decides to find him on her own. I liked Mattie for the most part, but she succeeds mainly because she's lucky and she hooks up with Asa who is a bit shifty but savvy. Mattie blunders around a fair bit in the story but that didn't bother me as much as her attitude toward her missing fiance once she knows the truth about his situation and what he actually did to her - her ostrich act irked me. And I really didn't like the way things ended - don't know if major groveling would have fixed that for me, but it should have at least been attempted - he gets off way too easy.
What I did like was Asa - Mattie brings outs another side to him - and I liked the fact the story is pretty action packed with some interesting twists and turns. So I am looking forward to the next book and hoping that Mattie sees the light and everyone gets what they really deserve.
As a warning- This story has a handful of uncomfortable sexualized elements associated with the lust magic as a drug and as a weapon, and with some bdsm moments associated with the pain magic and the magic smuggling - these added a squick factor to those parts of the story for me.
ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked a lot about Reliquary. Sarah Fine certainly creates interesting worlds (loved her 'Marked' world too.) Here there is magic in the world - with certain individuals having different kinds of magic which can produce lust or pain or which can be used to compel people and certain other people able to sense magic, or transfer magic into objects that can be used by non magical people. But what really makes things interesting is the fact that magic use is wrapped in all the trappings of illegal drugs - addictions, secret magic using rooms, smuggling and all of that controlled by mob like bosses.
Mattie discovers that hidden world when her fiance disappears and she decides to find him on her own. I liked Mattie for the most part, but she succeeds mainly because she's lucky and she hooks up with Asa who is a bit shifty but savvy. Mattie blunders around a fair bit in the story but that didn't bother me as much as her attitude toward her missing fiance once she knows the truth about his situation and what he actually did to her - her ostrich act irked me. And I really didn't like the way things ended - don't know if major groveling would have fixed that for me, but it should have at least been attempted - he gets off way too easy.
What I did like was Asa - Mattie brings outs another side to him - and I liked the fact the story is pretty action packed with some interesting twists and turns. So I am looking forward to the next book and hoping that Mattie sees the light and everyone gets what they really deserve.
As a warning- This story has a handful of uncomfortable sexualized elements associated with the lust magic as a drug and as a weapon, and with some bdsm moments associated with the pain magic and the magic smuggling - these added a squick factor to those parts of the story for me.
ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2016
****I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you****
Reliquary is the first book in Sarah Fine’s newest trilogy. It’s adult PNR and told from Mattie’s POV.
I didn’t know what a reliquary was when I got the book. I had to look up the definition: a container for holy relics. That is exactly what Mattie is. She is able to hold magic in her body without detection. The story is original and unique. I have never read a story similar to this one.
At the beginning of the story, Mattie seemed to be wearing someone else’s life. She was engaged to Ben and had this perfect life. It was the life she thought she wanted. When I was reading about her, it didn’t seem to fit her. As you read on in the story, you see a more authentic Mattie. As she immerses herself as a reliquary, she shines the best. Towards the end, she is a total butt kicking heroine.
Then there is Asa. He is prickly for good reason. It takes a while for Mattie to see the real Asa and truly understand him and his life. Once she looks beyond the rough exterior, she sees someone who truly cares for the people he loves and will protect them at any cost.
The story itself is well paced for as many action scenes as it has and goes in directions I wasn’t expecting. There were a few sexier scenes that caught me off guard in a good way. I believe they made the story more. Don’t worry, it’s not erotica. I’m being vague here not to give away the storylines.
The ending. Gah! I felt my heart ripped in two. I need to have some in depth discussions with someone about Mattie, Asa and Ben. I didn’t know it was a trilogy until after I finished the book. It is not a cliffhanger ending but the ending left me feeling unsettled. I need to know where Mattie, Ben and Asa’s story goes from here. I will definitely need to read the next in the series. I need answers.
Reliquary is the first book in Sarah Fine’s newest trilogy. It’s adult PNR and told from Mattie’s POV.
I didn’t know what a reliquary was when I got the book. I had to look up the definition: a container for holy relics. That is exactly what Mattie is. She is able to hold magic in her body without detection. The story is original and unique. I have never read a story similar to this one.
At the beginning of the story, Mattie seemed to be wearing someone else’s life. She was engaged to Ben and had this perfect life. It was the life she thought she wanted. When I was reading about her, it didn’t seem to fit her. As you read on in the story, you see a more authentic Mattie. As she immerses herself as a reliquary, she shines the best. Towards the end, she is a total butt kicking heroine.
Then there is Asa. He is prickly for good reason. It takes a while for Mattie to see the real Asa and truly understand him and his life. Once she looks beyond the rough exterior, she sees someone who truly cares for the people he loves and will protect them at any cost.
The story itself is well paced for as many action scenes as it has and goes in directions I wasn’t expecting. There were a few sexier scenes that caught me off guard in a good way. I believe they made the story more. Don’t worry, it’s not erotica. I’m being vague here not to give away the storylines.
The ending. Gah! I felt my heart ripped in two. I need to have some in depth discussions with someone about Mattie, Asa and Ben. I didn’t know it was a trilogy until after I finished the book. It is not a cliffhanger ending but the ending left me feeling unsettled. I need to know where Mattie, Ben and Asa’s story goes from here. I will definitely need to read the next in the series. I need answers.
September 28, 2016
I have never read anything by this author before but I was looking for something to read whilst waiting for some other releases to come out.
All I can say is, I am so glad I found it. The writing is excellent and I loved the storyline. A different take on magic users and the paranormal world. As for the characters, I liked Mattie but she really needs to get over Ben when the real man for her is right there in front of her, namely Asa. He was the best thing in this book. I just loved the way Sarah wrote him, his mannerisms, his wit, his sarcasm - I thought it was amazing. As much as I hated the way he kept distancing himself from Mattie, he knew that she was going to go back to him. Ben was and idiot throughout. Didn't like him at all, but surely that says more for the writing. If his selfishness can come through so much with the written word, then kudos to the author.
I was desperate for Asa and Mattie to get together and, whilst I normally avoid love triangles (a serious pet-hate), I had a feeling Mattie knew she was with the wrong man. But, in time honoured fashion, not in this book leaving you eager to download the next one which is exactly what I did.
I will definitely be reading more by Sarah, a great find!
All I can say is, I am so glad I found it. The writing is excellent and I loved the storyline. A different take on magic users and the paranormal world. As for the characters, I liked Mattie but she really needs to get over Ben when the real man for her is right there in front of her, namely Asa. He was the best thing in this book. I just loved the way Sarah wrote him, his mannerisms, his wit, his sarcasm - I thought it was amazing. As much as I hated the way he kept distancing himself from Mattie, he knew that she was going to go back to him. Ben was and idiot throughout. Didn't like him at all, but surely that says more for the writing. If his selfishness can come through so much with the written word, then kudos to the author.
I was desperate for Asa and Mattie to get together and, whilst I normally avoid love triangles (a serious pet-hate), I had a feeling Mattie knew she was with the wrong man. But, in time honoured fashion, not in this book leaving you eager to download the next one which is exactly what I did.
I will definitely be reading more by Sarah, a great find!
August 23, 2016
Roller coaster ride of a start to a new urban fantasy series by one of my favorite UF authors. This time decidedly adult.
I rather liked how Sarah handled the sexual aspects of the story. Celebrates female sexuality. Yet avoids the annoying pauses in action to insert gratuitous sex scenes.
It does start a little slow for my taste but then I forgot all about that soon enough.
Mattie is a bit of a naive ditz but isn't an airhead. Made her a lead that I could enjoy watching develop.
About to dive into the next book. This book is a complete story but leaves the door wide open for the next.
4.5 star read, rounded up because the author is so consistent in delivering enjoyable reads for me.
I rather liked how Sarah handled the sexual aspects of the story. Celebrates female sexuality. Yet avoids the annoying pauses in action to insert gratuitous sex scenes.
It does start a little slow for my taste but then I forgot all about that soon enough.
Mattie is a bit of a naive ditz but isn't an airhead. Made her a lead that I could enjoy watching develop.
About to dive into the next book. This book is a complete story but leaves the door wide open for the next.
4.5 star read, rounded up because the author is so consistent in delivering enjoyable reads for me.
March 5, 2017
3.5 stars. Sarah Fine is up there with the likes of Leigh Bardugo and Marie Rutkoski in the sense that while I may not avidly enjoy everything they write, I'll still read whatever they write. Reliquary was the perfect example of that because while it was a surprisingly entertaining and action-oriented story, it still was not my cuppa tea. Less urban fantasy than her Servants of Fate saga, Reliquary was that adult/new adult mix of Casino Royale's casino games and epsionage, Alias's light thriller and action, the kink of Fifty Shades of Grey, and the shootout scenes from any good action movie.
THE GOOD
1) Sarah Fine can write. I haven't liked her last few books (namely the Servants of Fate series) but homegirl has range. She did diverse young adult with Sanctum and Of Metal and Wishes, she pushed social norms with The Impostor Queen, new adult urban fantasy with Servants of Fate, and now contemporary new adult/adult with a touch of magic in Reliquary.
2) Reliquary moves surprisingly easy and fast. It's most everything I don't like to read, but I still found myself easily immersed in her storytelling.
3) Good chemistry buildup between Asa and Mattie.
4) We travel a lot! Chicago, San Francisco, Thailand...
THE BAD
Some of that was weird. The magical "magic stick" with the mind blowing orgasms? The BDSM club? Weird and completely not my cup of tea.
THE VERDICT
I picked this up because, well, Sarah Fine. While it wasn't for me, it still was terrific storytelling from one of my favorite authors of all time.
May or may not pick up the second book....because, well, Sarah Fine.
THE GOOD
1) Sarah Fine can write. I haven't liked her last few books (namely the Servants of Fate series) but homegirl has range. She did diverse young adult with Sanctum and Of Metal and Wishes, she pushed social norms with The Impostor Queen, new adult urban fantasy with Servants of Fate, and now contemporary new adult/adult with a touch of magic in Reliquary.
2) Reliquary moves surprisingly easy and fast. It's most everything I don't like to read, but I still found myself easily immersed in her storytelling.
3) Good chemistry buildup between Asa and Mattie.
4) We travel a lot! Chicago, San Francisco, Thailand...
THE BAD
Some of that was weird. The magical "magic stick" with the mind blowing orgasms? The BDSM club? Weird and completely not my cup of tea.
THE VERDICT
I picked this up because, well, Sarah Fine. While it wasn't for me, it still was terrific storytelling from one of my favorite authors of all time.
May or may not pick up the second book....because, well, Sarah Fine.
October 13, 2016
Three and a half stars: An intriguing story with unforgettable characters and a unique premise, but it suffers a bit with a complicated romance.
For Mattie Carver, life is perfect. Tonight is her engagement party, and she is lucky to be marrying a wonderful man. Unfortunately, her dream is shattered the next morning when her fiancé is kidnapped without a trace. When the local law enforcement fails to turn up any viable leads, Mattie takes matters into her own hands. Mattie soon stumbles upon a dark, seductive and unexpected world, involving magic. Mattie learns some hard truths about the man she loves, and her only ally is Asa, Ben's estranged brother. Mattie quickly finds herself immersed in this strange world, and it is all she can do to survive. The deeper she goes, the worse things get, until she is running for her life. Will Mattie recover Ben?
What I Liked:
*I am huge fan of Sarah Fine, and I am never disappointed with her thrilling story telling, imaginative world building and creativity. Reliquary delivers a dark, exciting world with four types of magic that involve pleasure, manipulation, pain and manipulation. I loved immersing into this strange world. If you love originality and excellent world building, give this a try.
*Mattie Carver is a character that takes a bit of time to warm up to. In the beginning she comes across as a pretty girl, who is a bit shallow, focused on her dream life, but when her world unravels at the seams, she must dig deep, and in doing so, she learns things about herself that she never thought possible. I loved her metamorphosis. By the end, she was a completely different character, she becomes a girl who is tough as nails, and one who is willing to take extreme risks to save the one she loves. She requires time and patience, but she is worth the wait.
*Asa, Mattie's partner in crime, is also a slow burning character. He comes across as the dark, brooding, bad boy, but there are so many layers to him. He takes a lot of time to warm up to, but he is never boring. He is always fascinating, and the further I dug, the more I loved him. By the end, I was sold on him, hook, line and sinker.
*Once the story takes hold, it doesn't let up. There is action, danger, and excitement. I was flipping the pages as fast as I could, because I just had to know more. I loved that this book grabbed a hold and didn't let go until the end.
*The book ends without a cliffhanger, which was a relief, but there was much left unfinished. I was left eager for more, and lucky for me, the next books will be released by the end of the year.
And The Not So Much:
*The romance was a big niggle for me. I usually adore Ms. Fine's romances, but this time, I struggled. First, there is a love triangle if you will, but not really.... How to explain? When the book opens, Mattie is set to marry Ben, but as the story progresses, she learns more and more about him, and many of the things are unsettling. Asa helps her through hell and back, and along the way, they bond. The book ends with Mattie seemingly making her choice, but there is conflict and doubt in her. *I have a feeling I know where the next book is going, so I am going to be patient, because I think it will work out. I think the other reason I had issues was that I am used to swoon worthy male leads, and Ben isn't that, and it takes a long time to warm up to Asa. Patience is required for the romance.
*There was a scene at the end that featured sadistic sexual behavior, which wasn't my favorite. It was nothing graphic or over the top, but it was just not my thing.
*I was disappointed that more time wasn't spent with Mattie's grandpa. He was a fascinating
character with a lot of stories to tell, and I wanted to know his secrets.
Reliquary is a promising beginning to a new series from Sarah Fine. She delivers with excellent world building and creative story telling, but this one faltered a bit with a complicated romance that had a bit of a love triangle. I am eager to see where the story will go, and I have faith that Ms. Fine will deliver.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
For Mattie Carver, life is perfect. Tonight is her engagement party, and she is lucky to be marrying a wonderful man. Unfortunately, her dream is shattered the next morning when her fiancé is kidnapped without a trace. When the local law enforcement fails to turn up any viable leads, Mattie takes matters into her own hands. Mattie soon stumbles upon a dark, seductive and unexpected world, involving magic. Mattie learns some hard truths about the man she loves, and her only ally is Asa, Ben's estranged brother. Mattie quickly finds herself immersed in this strange world, and it is all she can do to survive. The deeper she goes, the worse things get, until she is running for her life. Will Mattie recover Ben?
What I Liked:
*I am huge fan of Sarah Fine, and I am never disappointed with her thrilling story telling, imaginative world building and creativity. Reliquary delivers a dark, exciting world with four types of magic that involve pleasure, manipulation, pain and manipulation. I loved immersing into this strange world. If you love originality and excellent world building, give this a try.
*Mattie Carver is a character that takes a bit of time to warm up to. In the beginning she comes across as a pretty girl, who is a bit shallow, focused on her dream life, but when her world unravels at the seams, she must dig deep, and in doing so, she learns things about herself that she never thought possible. I loved her metamorphosis. By the end, she was a completely different character, she becomes a girl who is tough as nails, and one who is willing to take extreme risks to save the one she loves. She requires time and patience, but she is worth the wait.
*Asa, Mattie's partner in crime, is also a slow burning character. He comes across as the dark, brooding, bad boy, but there are so many layers to him. He takes a lot of time to warm up to, but he is never boring. He is always fascinating, and the further I dug, the more I loved him. By the end, I was sold on him, hook, line and sinker.
*Once the story takes hold, it doesn't let up. There is action, danger, and excitement. I was flipping the pages as fast as I could, because I just had to know more. I loved that this book grabbed a hold and didn't let go until the end.
*The book ends without a cliffhanger, which was a relief, but there was much left unfinished. I was left eager for more, and lucky for me, the next books will be released by the end of the year.
And The Not So Much:
*The romance was a big niggle for me. I usually adore Ms. Fine's romances, but this time, I struggled. First, there is a love triangle if you will, but not really.... How to explain? When the book opens, Mattie is set to marry Ben, but as the story progresses, she learns more and more about him, and many of the things are unsettling. Asa helps her through hell and back, and along the way, they bond. The book ends with Mattie seemingly making her choice, but there is conflict and doubt in her. *I have a feeling I know where the next book is going, so I am going to be patient, because I think it will work out. I think the other reason I had issues was that I am used to swoon worthy male leads, and Ben isn't that, and it takes a long time to warm up to Asa. Patience is required for the romance.
*There was a scene at the end that featured sadistic sexual behavior, which wasn't my favorite. It was nothing graphic or over the top, but it was just not my thing.
*I was disappointed that more time wasn't spent with Mattie's grandpa. He was a fascinating
character with a lot of stories to tell, and I wanted to know his secrets.
Reliquary is a promising beginning to a new series from Sarah Fine. She delivers with excellent world building and creative story telling, but this one faltered a bit with a complicated romance that had a bit of a love triangle. I am eager to see where the story will go, and I have faith that Ms. Fine will deliver.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
February 21, 2024
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Sarah Fine’s adult fare, but I loved The Impostor Queen, so I decided to give it a try. This was different but really enjoyable – I’m glad I made the jump!
The synopsis describes the book well, so I’m just going to skip straight to my review.
What Fed My Addiction:
A gritty magical underworld.
When Mattie discovers the world of magic, she first thinks she’s stumbled upon some sort of drug den – and with good reason. The magical underworld is more than a little bit seedy. It’s run by something along the lines of the mob with bosses of different areas competing for relics and power.
High stakes.
Once Mattie discovers the existence of magic – and her ability to hold it – things get dangerous pretty quickly. She has no idea what she’s getting herself into when she agrees to work with Asa, her missing fiance’s estranged brother – she only knows she’s desperate to save Ben and she’ll risk anything to get him back. But every moment she spends with Asa is life-threatening – she spends a lot of time dodging his unsavory associates, and then she has to worry about people who might want to use her abilities for their own purposes. There is never a dull moment in this book.
Asa.
The mysterious (and often cantankerous) Asa won me over in the end. He acted rough and gruff, but in reality he put Mattie first every time – and his brother too, even though he had good reason to be upset with him.
What Left Me Wanting More:
Ben.
It was hard to understand why Mattie was SO incredibly loyal to Ben. I understood that she was in love with him and that she wanted to give him grace because of that, but once she found out that he was manipulating her, it seemed like she should have been a bit more upset. The relationship was obviously very dysfunctional – I didn’t have any pity at all for Ben.
BDSM.
I have to confess that I just don’t get the whole submissive thing and why Mattie would fall for Asa because she feels like he’s in control (in a very dominant/submissive sort of way). I also don’t relate to the mixing of pleasure of pain, so BDSM storylines aren’t my favorite. But I will say that this book seemed like it’s probably very BDSM light, I’m guessing, in comparison to more erotic books. This book has some sex, but it’s not especially explicit (I’ve read plenty of NA books with more explicit sex).
I liked that this was something a little different – a little darker and grittier than my typical read. I’ll definitely be reading the next book. ! I give this one 3.5/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Sarah Fine’s adult fare, but I loved The Impostor Queen, so I decided to give it a try. This was different but really enjoyable – I’m glad I made the jump!
The synopsis describes the book well, so I’m just going to skip straight to my review.
What Fed My Addiction:
A gritty magical underworld.
When Mattie discovers the world of magic, she first thinks she’s stumbled upon some sort of drug den – and with good reason. The magical underworld is more than a little bit seedy. It’s run by something along the lines of the mob with bosses of different areas competing for relics and power.
High stakes.
Once Mattie discovers the existence of magic – and her ability to hold it – things get dangerous pretty quickly. She has no idea what she’s getting herself into when she agrees to work with Asa, her missing fiance’s estranged brother – she only knows she’s desperate to save Ben and she’ll risk anything to get him back. But every moment she spends with Asa is life-threatening – she spends a lot of time dodging his unsavory associates, and then she has to worry about people who might want to use her abilities for their own purposes. There is never a dull moment in this book.
Asa.
The mysterious (and often cantankerous) Asa won me over in the end. He acted rough and gruff, but in reality he put Mattie first every time – and his brother too, even though he had good reason to be upset with him.
What Left Me Wanting More:
Ben.
It was hard to understand why Mattie was SO incredibly loyal to Ben. I understood that she was in love with him and that she wanted to give him grace because of that, but once she found out that he was manipulating her, it seemed like she should have been a bit more upset. The relationship was obviously very dysfunctional – I didn’t have any pity at all for Ben.
BDSM.
I have to confess that I just don’t get the whole submissive thing and why Mattie would fall for Asa because she feels like he’s in control (in a very dominant/submissive sort of way). I also don’t relate to the mixing of pleasure of pain, so BDSM storylines aren’t my favorite. But I will say that this book seemed like it’s probably very BDSM light, I’m guessing, in comparison to more erotic books. This book has some sex, but it’s not especially explicit (I’ve read plenty of NA books with more explicit sex).
I liked that this was something a little different – a little darker and grittier than my typical read. I’ll definitely be reading the next book. ! I give this one 3.5/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
July 29, 2016
"Looking back, I’m amazed by how lies can soothe the soul, quell every fear, blind you to reality in the most pleasant of ways."
From the opening line, Reliquary instantly pulled me in. Fantasy isn't a genre I actively gravitate to, but the cover and synopsis of Reliquary peaked my interest. It wasn't long before Saran Fine's world of magic, action, and romance kept me glued to the pages.
“It’s hope, Mattie. You’re an addict. And I know a thing or two about addicts. You’re gonna chase that high all the way to the end.”
When Mattie's fiancé Ben disappears she's thrust into the world of magic and intrigue. I liked how the underground world of magic was carefully crafted. It was multi layered, and excting. Magic was used for pleasure but it was also a business that could be ruthless and dangerous. Until Ben disappeared, Mattie had no idea about what she could do or the fact the Ben was caught up in this world. Mattie soon discovers that she's a reliquary, a person that can store magic. There were four types of magic and three types of human vessels. "Sensing—Sensilo.” Pleasure—Ekstazo. Manipulator --Knedas, Pain--Strikon. The three types of vessels are Reliquaries, Conduits, and Sensors."
“Allowing someone to be who they really are, on their terms, instead of expecting them to be who you wish they were—that’s always a choice.”
Maggie is desperate to find out what truly happened to Ben and it leads her Asa, Ben's estranged brother. Asa and Ben, have had a contentious relationship over the years. Asa was always been the rebel and his stint with drugs and violence caused a rift in their already broken family. Asa is a supplier of magic and a sensor. Maggie has only heard the negative things about Asa, so doesn't quite know if she can trust him but he is her only hope. He's reluctant to help find Ben but he and Maggie come to a truce. He agrees to help her find Ben in exchange for her becoming a reliquary for his business.
“It’s them or us now, Mattie. And when it comes to that, I’m going to choose us every time.”
With each job that Asa and Mattie complete, they are able to gather information about Ben's disappearance. I liked both Asa and Mattie. They are completely different from one another, where he is gruff and demanding, Mattie had sweet strength and determination. On the surface Asa is exactly how Ben had described but we learn so much more about him as the story goes on. They actually made a great team and they become closer as the story goes on. I enjoyed each layer of this novel and the additional characters (Grandpa, Daria, and Jack). This novel jumped right into the action. It was well written, actioned packed, and surprisingly sexy at times. I think the end was fitting for this portion of this story. There are many questions that need to be answered and after this ending, I'm anxious to see what will come next.
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