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Moonlight Dragon #1
Descended from Dragons
To save Sin City, she must battle Hell. Too bad the odds are against her.
Beneath the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas lies another city. A secret city in plain sight, full of warlocks and demons, shapeshifters and golems. A city that feeds off the chance magick that is generated by gamblers and which is ruled by mysterious beings called the Oddsmakers.
It is in this strange underbelly of the occult that Anne Moody runs a cursed pawn shop for the desperate, the curious, and the magickally inclined. Though the job is boring, it keeps her under the radar. None of her customers have any inkling that she is a dragon sorceress with a power that's been feared throughout history. One day, a visitor to her shop pawns a stone statue that is more than it appears. The statue is a gargoyle named Vale, who is shrouded in mystery and secrets. When she learns that Vale is possessed, and that the person responsible for cursing him plans to take over Las Vegas with a horde of demons from Hell, Anne realizes it is up to her to defy the Oddsmakers and save the city, and possibly the world.
Beneath the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas lies another city. A secret city in plain sight, full of warlocks and demons, shapeshifters and golems. A city that feeds off the chance magick that is generated by gamblers and which is ruled by mysterious beings called the Oddsmakers.
It is in this strange underbelly of the occult that Anne Moody runs a cursed pawn shop for the desperate, the curious, and the magickally inclined. Though the job is boring, it keeps her under the radar. None of her customers have any inkling that she is a dragon sorceress with a power that's been feared throughout history. One day, a visitor to her shop pawns a stone statue that is more than it appears. The statue is a gargoyle named Vale, who is shrouded in mystery and secrets. When she learns that Vale is possessed, and that the person responsible for cursing him plans to take over Las Vegas with a horde of demons from Hell, Anne realizes it is up to her to defy the Oddsmakers and save the city, and possibly the world.
218 pages, Paperback
First published May 12, 2016
312 people are currently reading
1749 people want to read
About the author
Tricia Owens
97 books539 followersI write urban fantasy, paranormal romance, m/m fiction and menage fiction, with probably more genres to come! Please visit my website and sign up for my newsletter so you'll be kept apprised of my frequent new releases:
Website: http://www.triciaowensbooks.com/
Website: http://www.triciaowensbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
March 12, 2017
3.5 Dragon stars
This was interesting and I liked the set up and the lore. The world building was smooth but the build up and romance aspect were a bit let of a let down towards the end. But it does have potential to grow and make a mark in the Urban Fantasy genre.
Anne Moody is cursed with a pawn shop she can't sell, in a haunted house with many cursed objects she has either inherited or people have offloaded. And if that's not enough her beloved uncle and only living relative has been missing for two years. Also to top it all of she is, as the title says, descended from Dragons.
I loved the lore regarding the dragons. But to my dragon shifter lovers, a warning that Anne must not fully shift into one (at least she's not a mermaid with no tail), if she does she will lose her self and become fully dragon. She has powers and is considered a sorceress. Her dragon nature is in the shape of a familiar when she calls on it.
We also have monkey shifters, witches, warlocks, werewolves, demons, water fey and gargoyles. I loved the mix of all the supernatural races. Set in Las Vegas, it blended the reality of gambling and the desperation of the gamblers to pawn their things with the supernatural.
A customer sells Anne a gargoyle. But it's not your average gargoyle. It's a shifter trapped in his gargoyle form. He is also forced to share that form with a demon that is fighting him for possession. Anne decides to help the gargoyle and finds her self fighting against not only the powerful demon in the gargoyle but also the person that summoned it, who is trying to summon a horde of demons to take over Las Vegas.
The ending for me was a tad anticlimactic but it's set up to continue in the next book (No cliffhanger). Also the romance though it starts with the looks, flirting and funny innuendo, didn't burn up my tablet at it's culmination. Which for a perv like me was disappointing.
So overall it's a light, entertaining Urban Fantasy book that I enjoyed. If you find yourself craving a UF dose this will hit the spot.
P.S. This has a giveaway on GoodReads if you wish to enter.
This was interesting and I liked the set up and the lore. The world building was smooth but the build up and romance aspect were a bit let of a let down towards the end. But it does have potential to grow and make a mark in the Urban Fantasy genre.
Anne Moody is cursed with a pawn shop she can't sell, in a haunted house with many cursed objects she has either inherited or people have offloaded. And if that's not enough her beloved uncle and only living relative has been missing for two years. Also to top it all of she is, as the title says, descended from Dragons.
I loved the lore regarding the dragons. But to my dragon shifter lovers, a warning that Anne must not fully shift into one (at least she's not a mermaid with no tail), if she does she will lose her self and become fully dragon. She has powers and is considered a sorceress. Her dragon nature is in the shape of a familiar when she calls on it.
We also have monkey shifters, witches, warlocks, werewolves, demons, water fey and gargoyles. I loved the mix of all the supernatural races. Set in Las Vegas, it blended the reality of gambling and the desperation of the gamblers to pawn their things with the supernatural.
A customer sells Anne a gargoyle. But it's not your average gargoyle. It's a shifter trapped in his gargoyle form. He is also forced to share that form with a demon that is fighting him for possession. Anne decides to help the gargoyle and finds her self fighting against not only the powerful demon in the gargoyle but also the person that summoned it, who is trying to summon a horde of demons to take over Las Vegas.
The ending for me was a tad anticlimactic but it's set up to continue in the next book (No cliffhanger). Also the romance though it starts with the looks, flirting and funny innuendo, didn't burn up my tablet at it's culmination. Which for a perv like me was disappointing.
So overall it's a light, entertaining Urban Fantasy book that I enjoyed. If you find yourself craving a UF dose this will hit the spot.
P.S. This has a giveaway on GoodReads if you wish to enter.
November 9, 2024
This was an entertaining Urban Fantasy and a pleasant start to a new series.
Descended from Dragons
is book one in the Moonlight Dragon series by Tricia Owens.
This was my first time experiencing Ms. Owens. I have to say I was impressed with the unusual and unique world filled with a verity of shifters, gargoyles, demons, magic, curses, and more.
The story did start of a little on the slow side for me, but that didn’t last long. Things soon picked up and we are on a whirlwind adventure. Their are lots of twists, turns, and surprises along the way that kepet me engaged and wondering what was next for our characters. They must solve a mystery and deal with a curse all while trying to stay under the radar of the Oddsmakers, the rulers of Vegas.
I liked Anna, our heroine. She is unique, unusual, and has a good head on her shoulders. She is also something everyone fears and reverse. She tries to stay under the raider, but soon that is no longer an option. We do have a little insta-love/attraction thing going on, but that takes secondary place to the story. All the secondary characters where amusing and enjoyable to read about too. I liked Anna’s best friend, Melanie, who is a monkey shifter. And, I look forward to getting to know them better.
I did have several questions at the end of this book and I’m hoping they will get answered as the series progress. Some questions I ended up with where: Why is her shop cursed? What happened to her uncle? Why where certain people looking for? What consequences will happen now that she used her powers? Who are the Oddsmakers? They are mentioned as the a mafia type/rulers/police of the supernaturals, but we don’t get to see them, at least not yet.
Descended from Dragons was a pleasurable read. If you enjoy Urban Fantasy with a hint of humor then you might like this. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
*Disclaimer I received a complimentary copy provided by Romance Beckons via NetGalley with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
This was my first time experiencing Ms. Owens. I have to say I was impressed with the unusual and unique world filled with a verity of shifters, gargoyles, demons, magic, curses, and more.
The story did start of a little on the slow side for me, but that didn’t last long. Things soon picked up and we are on a whirlwind adventure. Their are lots of twists, turns, and surprises along the way that kepet me engaged and wondering what was next for our characters. They must solve a mystery and deal with a curse all while trying to stay under the radar of the Oddsmakers, the rulers of Vegas.
I liked Anna, our heroine. She is unique, unusual, and has a good head on her shoulders. She is also something everyone fears and reverse. She tries to stay under the raider, but soon that is no longer an option. We do have a little insta-love/attraction thing going on, but that takes secondary place to the story. All the secondary characters where amusing and enjoyable to read about too. I liked Anna’s best friend, Melanie, who is a monkey shifter. And, I look forward to getting to know them better.
I did have several questions at the end of this book and I’m hoping they will get answered as the series progress. Some questions I ended up with where: Why is her shop cursed? What happened to her uncle? Why where certain people looking for? What consequences will happen now that she used her powers? Who are the Oddsmakers? They are mentioned as the a mafia type/rulers/police of the supernaturals, but we don’t get to see them, at least not yet.
Descended from Dragons was a pleasurable read. If you enjoy Urban Fantasy with a hint of humor then you might like this. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
*Disclaimer I received a complimentary copy provided by Romance Beckons via NetGalley with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
February 18, 2017
Title: Descended from Dragons
Series: Moonlight Dragon #1
Author: Tricia Owens
Genre: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
Blurb: To save Sin City, she must battle Hell. Too bad the odds are against her.
Beneath the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas lies another city. A secret city in plain sight, full of warlocks and demons, shapeshifters and golems. A city that feeds off the chance magick that is generated by gamblers and which is ruled by mysterious beings called the Oddsmakers.
It is in this strange underbelly of the occult that Anne Moody runs a cursed pawn shop for the desperate, the curious, and the magickally inclined. Though the job is boring, it keeps her under the radar. None of her customers have any inkling that she is a dragon sorceress with a power that's been feared throughout history. One day, a visitor to her shop pawns a stone statue that is more than it appears. The statue is a gargoyle named Vale, who is shrouded in mystery and secrets. When she learns that Vale is possessed, and that the person responsible for cursing him plans to take over Las Vegas with a horde of demons from Hell, Anne realizes it is up to her to defy the Oddsmakers and save the city, and possibly the world.
Thoughts: I was excited to find a book featuring dragon shifters, rather than the typical large cat or wolf shifters. While the book was a good, it really hit great for me, however. The book is good enough and interesting enough to have you invested off to finish it and get a conclusion to the story and the characters, but it’s not one I would go back to over and over again to re-read or continue on with a whole series. A decent read though.
Rate: C+
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Moonlight Dragon #1
Author: Tricia Owens
Genre: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
Blurb: To save Sin City, she must battle Hell. Too bad the odds are against her.
Beneath the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas lies another city. A secret city in plain sight, full of warlocks and demons, shapeshifters and golems. A city that feeds off the chance magick that is generated by gamblers and which is ruled by mysterious beings called the Oddsmakers.
It is in this strange underbelly of the occult that Anne Moody runs a cursed pawn shop for the desperate, the curious, and the magickally inclined. Though the job is boring, it keeps her under the radar. None of her customers have any inkling that she is a dragon sorceress with a power that's been feared throughout history. One day, a visitor to her shop pawns a stone statue that is more than it appears. The statue is a gargoyle named Vale, who is shrouded in mystery and secrets. When she learns that Vale is possessed, and that the person responsible for cursing him plans to take over Las Vegas with a horde of demons from Hell, Anne realizes it is up to her to defy the Oddsmakers and save the city, and possibly the world.
Thoughts: I was excited to find a book featuring dragon shifters, rather than the typical large cat or wolf shifters. While the book was a good, it really hit great for me, however. The book is good enough and interesting enough to have you invested off to finish it and get a conclusion to the story and the characters, but it’s not one I would go back to over and over again to re-read or continue on with a whole series. A decent read though.
Rate: C+
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
May 15, 2016
Excellent, excellent book.
Okay, this book is awesome. A must read. I was literally up All night reading this book. I just couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I have learned my lesson not to start reading a book late a night. So, I say now lol.
The characters are great very believable, likable, and at times funny. The writing is flawless, it captivates you, transporting you on an exciting magical adventure with great friends, old and new. Anne the main character's friends consist of a bunch from the secret world of magic, water fae, shape shifting wolf, occult, succubus, tarot card reader, a gargoyle shifter in need of help, and her best friend a shape shifting monkey. The humans don't know they share the world with these magical beings, or that any type of magic exist, and it's very important too keep it secret from them. So there is also a group that watches the magic being used and, keeps track of anyone using it in the open, or that is losing control of their abilities their called the Oddsmakers. Not a lot is known about them, just a bunch of tales. A lot happens in this book. The main character Anne Moody is an easily one to like, she's kind, caring, helpful, and in need of a boyfriend. Her world is not normal in many ways, most people would be freaking out on a regular basis, if they saw what she did all the time. Or was around the things she is every day. Her luck is not that good either...poor Anne. She also has no family, having lost her parents when she was a young girl. Her Uncle raised her, and taught her about her gift. An ancient gift that is in her blood, and her family's for generations. A very powerful gift that she has to be careful not to let it over take her. For the last two years though her uncle has disappeared, she has no idea where or why he would leave. So now she lives by herself behind the pawn shop, that is now hers since her uncle left, in the little very strange studio apartment. So now she runs the pawn shop out of obligation because her uncle loved the little shop. She hopes one day he will come home. She misses him, and hates working retail, running the shop.
This book is full of one thing after another happening. It's fun, exciting, at times a bit creepy, but always entertaining, and never boring. Give this book a shot, my review does it no justice.
Okay, this book is awesome. A must read. I was literally up All night reading this book. I just couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I have learned my lesson not to start reading a book late a night. So, I say now lol.
The characters are great very believable, likable, and at times funny. The writing is flawless, it captivates you, transporting you on an exciting magical adventure with great friends, old and new. Anne the main character's friends consist of a bunch from the secret world of magic, water fae, shape shifting wolf, occult, succubus, tarot card reader, a gargoyle shifter in need of help, and her best friend a shape shifting monkey. The humans don't know they share the world with these magical beings, or that any type of magic exist, and it's very important too keep it secret from them. So there is also a group that watches the magic being used and, keeps track of anyone using it in the open, or that is losing control of their abilities their called the Oddsmakers. Not a lot is known about them, just a bunch of tales. A lot happens in this book. The main character Anne Moody is an easily one to like, she's kind, caring, helpful, and in need of a boyfriend. Her world is not normal in many ways, most people would be freaking out on a regular basis, if they saw what she did all the time. Or was around the things she is every day. Her luck is not that good either...poor Anne. She also has no family, having lost her parents when she was a young girl. Her Uncle raised her, and taught her about her gift. An ancient gift that is in her blood, and her family's for generations. A very powerful gift that she has to be careful not to let it over take her. For the last two years though her uncle has disappeared, she has no idea where or why he would leave. So now she lives by herself behind the pawn shop, that is now hers since her uncle left, in the little very strange studio apartment. So now she runs the pawn shop out of obligation because her uncle loved the little shop. She hopes one day he will come home. She misses him, and hates working retail, running the shop.
This book is full of one thing after another happening. It's fun, exciting, at times a bit creepy, but always entertaining, and never boring. Give this book a shot, my review does it no justice.
February 19, 2017
This was actually a pretty fun read. Very light on the romance and lots of different types of magical creatures. I reminded me of series like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Charmed.
January 15, 2017
Rating: 3.5 out of 5.
July 12, 2016
When I was a little girl, I spent countless summer days with my grandma and most of that time was spent playing dress-up; she had the most amazing collection of jewelry. I loved one item in particular--her Cameo. I used to fantasize that the Cameo could talk and she would tell me secrets. Some of my fondest memories as a child were with my grandma, so when I came across the snooty uptight Cameos that loved to put their two-cents in, within the early pages of this book, I was hooked--connected to the story by my remembrance of my grandma's Cameo but the connection didn't stop there...
This unique urban fantasy had magic--so did the writing, and it pulled me into the story of a sassy Las Vegas pawn shop owner named Anne Moody whose familiar is a Chinese dragon named Lucky. Anne lives in the back of her pawnshop and it is described as cursed, but is haunted in the most disgusting way. Having been exposed to oddities, curses, and horror on a regular bases has numbed Anne to a typical human reaction and her cynical point of view is often hilarious. At times she comes off as numb to the world around her, but she is still a passionate hot-blooded woman, determined to prevent demons from taking over her city, while trying not to jump her gargoyle, Vale.
The author used the glitz and glory of Las Vegas to create the sense of magic hidden within the secretly cursed city; a community of magic creatures, of all types, that are controlled by the Oddsmakers. Having been to Vegas, I could see every detail described by the author and could totally relate to her twist on it's reality.
This was a unique read for me, but I couldn't put it down because I loved the use of humor--it made the story feel authentic and relatable. I laughed a lot, so much so that my husband would toss me looks of annoyance (he does this often--I live to annoy him, but with love).
So this is a shout it loud from the rooftops FIVE STAR read for me...obviously. I have already started on book two, Hunting Down Dragons.
This unique urban fantasy had magic--so did the writing, and it pulled me into the story of a sassy Las Vegas pawn shop owner named Anne Moody whose familiar is a Chinese dragon named Lucky. Anne lives in the back of her pawnshop and it is described as cursed, but is haunted in the most disgusting way. Having been exposed to oddities, curses, and horror on a regular bases has numbed Anne to a typical human reaction and her cynical point of view is often hilarious. At times she comes off as numb to the world around her, but she is still a passionate hot-blooded woman, determined to prevent demons from taking over her city, while trying not to jump her gargoyle, Vale.
The author used the glitz and glory of Las Vegas to create the sense of magic hidden within the secretly cursed city; a community of magic creatures, of all types, that are controlled by the Oddsmakers. Having been to Vegas, I could see every detail described by the author and could totally relate to her twist on it's reality.
This was a unique read for me, but I couldn't put it down because I loved the use of humor--it made the story feel authentic and relatable. I laughed a lot, so much so that my husband would toss me looks of annoyance (he does this often--I live to annoy him, but with love).
So this is a shout it loud from the rooftops FIVE STAR read for me...obviously. I have already started on book two, Hunting Down Dragons.
April 16, 2016
Book: Descended from Dragons: an Urban Fantasy (Moonlight Dragon, #1)
Author: Tricia Owens
Publication Date: 5/17/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
*May contain spoilers *
This is book is full of paranormal beings. The author gives us gargoyles, warlocks, shifters; yes, shifters even a monkey shifter, and a dragon. Anne Moody runs a shop, which sits, right atop an underworld that is not known to all. Not many know what Anne truly is but even she is not sure how she will defeat what lies ahead.
Anne figures out that there is a curse and it is on the statue outside her shop. The gargoyle whose name she learns is Vale is one hot, steamy, sexy male. But he has had a curse placed on him by a demon. It is now up to Anne and a few of her magical friends to help Vale but can they do it? Can they break the curse without getting themselves killed or worse?
If you like, Urban Fantasy then this is a book for you. There is a ton going on with all kinds of beings. Very good read and well written.
This is book one in what I think will become an awesome series.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review.
Descended from Dragons: an Urban Fantasy
Author: Tricia Owens
Publication Date: 5/17/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
*May contain spoilers *
This is book is full of paranormal beings. The author gives us gargoyles, warlocks, shifters; yes, shifters even a monkey shifter, and a dragon. Anne Moody runs a shop, which sits, right atop an underworld that is not known to all. Not many know what Anne truly is but even she is not sure how she will defeat what lies ahead.
Anne figures out that there is a curse and it is on the statue outside her shop. The gargoyle whose name she learns is Vale is one hot, steamy, sexy male. But he has had a curse placed on him by a demon. It is now up to Anne and a few of her magical friends to help Vale but can they do it? Can they break the curse without getting themselves killed or worse?
If you like, Urban Fantasy then this is a book for you. There is a ton going on with all kinds of beings. Very good read and well written.
This is book one in what I think will become an awesome series.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review.
Descended from Dragons: an Urban Fantasy
February 1, 2017
No complaints. I'll write something later.
February 4, 2019
Dragons, shape shifters, demons, warlocks and a gargoyle with a curse (well a demon that was forced into him). This “community” of supernaturals live in Las Vegas. And let’s not forget the magical items in the pawn shop which is called Moonlight Pawn Shop.
Anne Moody is the main character and she knows how to handle herself. You don’t want to get on her bad side.
Dang the cliffhanger, I need to order in book two.
Anne Moody is the main character and she knows how to handle herself. You don’t want to get on her bad side.
Dang the cliffhanger, I need to order in book two.
August 23, 2016
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the Romance Beckons Cooperative for an honest review.
Anne Moody lives and works in Las Vegas. Specifically inside a 'cursed' pawn shop. I'm not sure why I put cursed in scare quotes. I mean cursed as in literally cursed. The kind of place that Anne can't really up and leave - filled with things that are cursed, some of which talk to Anne in a way only Anne can hear (in a 'you are going to die; you will meet the love of your life and he will kill you; etc.' kind of way), plus random non-cursed items.
Anne is the descendant of dragons. I'm not exactly sure what that means, though there is reference to dragon in her blood, and, separately, reference to the Chinese being descendant's of dragons. Even saying that I still don't know what that means exactly.
As far as this story is concerned - Anne Moody is a powerful dragon sorcerous (sp?) who has a dragon familiar, and she herself has 'dragon' in her. In that, if she isn't careful, she'll literally turn into a dragon and run around killing and destroying, and being a big badass predator. Supposedly. Anne's been kind of trying to fly under the radar because Las Vegas has these 'Oddsmakers' who keep an eye on things and anyone who gets too public, or shows too much power, is taken out. Whatever that means. Since she is flying under the radar, her true power level is unknown.
Also because she is flying under the radar, most do not know who and/or what she is. Even her friends are in the dark. And her family is either dead or missing.
The story involves a powerful unknown entity who wishes to gain access/control over a demon and use their power and minions to take over Las Vegas. If they succeed they will get lots of power.
Anne kind of backs into the story by having someone drop off a gargoyle statue which is less a statue and more of an actual gargoyle. One that is cursed - what with having a demon pushed into it. This leads to Anne learning of the evil dude's activities, and directly/indirectly causing that evil dude some 'issues' and putting some roadblocks in front of that guy on his quest for success.
Interesting enough story though I had certain 'issues'. She is super powerful but makes comments indicating a lack of desire or interest in 'learning' the thing she needs to know (see, for example: comments made when she mentioned dropping out of college). Certain comments are made that are on the edge of ... not exactly sure how to word this issue - lack of awareness of a LGBT world (see: 'of course she didn't fall under the succubus power because wrong gender - there is a 90% chance I am reading that wrong).
Not exactly sure about rating. Something around 3.5 to 3.7.
May 22 2016
Anne Moody lives and works in Las Vegas. Specifically inside a 'cursed' pawn shop. I'm not sure why I put cursed in scare quotes. I mean cursed as in literally cursed. The kind of place that Anne can't really up and leave - filled with things that are cursed, some of which talk to Anne in a way only Anne can hear (in a 'you are going to die; you will meet the love of your life and he will kill you; etc.' kind of way), plus random non-cursed items.
Anne is the descendant of dragons. I'm not exactly sure what that means, though there is reference to dragon in her blood, and, separately, reference to the Chinese being descendant's of dragons. Even saying that I still don't know what that means exactly.
As far as this story is concerned - Anne Moody is a powerful dragon sorcerous (sp?) who has a dragon familiar, and she herself has 'dragon' in her. In that, if she isn't careful, she'll literally turn into a dragon and run around killing and destroying, and being a big badass predator. Supposedly. Anne's been kind of trying to fly under the radar because Las Vegas has these 'Oddsmakers' who keep an eye on things and anyone who gets too public, or shows too much power, is taken out. Whatever that means. Since she is flying under the radar, her true power level is unknown.
Also because she is flying under the radar, most do not know who and/or what she is. Even her friends are in the dark. And her family is either dead or missing.
The story involves a powerful unknown entity who wishes to gain access/control over a demon and use their power and minions to take over Las Vegas. If they succeed they will get lots of power.
Anne kind of backs into the story by having someone drop off a gargoyle statue which is less a statue and more of an actual gargoyle. One that is cursed - what with having a demon pushed into it. This leads to Anne learning of the evil dude's activities, and directly/indirectly causing that evil dude some 'issues' and putting some roadblocks in front of that guy on his quest for success.
Interesting enough story though I had certain 'issues'. She is super powerful but makes comments indicating a lack of desire or interest in 'learning' the thing she needs to know (see, for example: comments made when she mentioned dropping out of college). Certain comments are made that are on the edge of ... not exactly sure how to word this issue - lack of awareness of a LGBT world (see: 'of course she didn't fall under the succubus power because wrong gender - there is a 90% chance I am reading that wrong).
Not exactly sure about rating. Something around 3.5 to 3.7.
May 22 2016
May 13, 2016
A one-sit read. Do not, repeat, DO NOT begin as a bedtime story—unless you're willing to read all night.
Anne Moody is cursed. And she is reminded of it, daily, in a variety of ways. The cameos speak to her, an ice demon inhabits her refrigerator, ghosts pace her roof as she tries to sleep. She lives and works in a cursed house. Many would say she lives and works in a cursed city, Las Vegas.
Anne runs a pawn shop she inherited, and lives in the back of it. She also inherited the curses, the ghosts, and her dragon blood. The dragon blood is both a curse and a blessing. Those who practice magic are allowed to stay in Las Vegas, as long as they don't cause great harm, or upset the balance. The Oddsmakers see to that. The Oddsmakers are the police for the magical ones, and they are not to be trifled with.
A young man brings in a statue to pawn. A gargoyle. What he doesn't tell Anne Moody is that it's cursed and contains a demon. By day it's a stone statue, by night, it's alive – and nasty. Using her Chinese Mirror to look at it, she sees another being trapped in it, and she must do what she can to solve the mystery, to save the man trapped with the demon and to eliminate the demon, and thereby save Las Vegas. And she must do all this without using her dragon familiar too much, because dragons are not well thought of. The Oddsmakers really do not like dragons, and they wouldn't like knowing and having one in their midst.
I am quite fond of weres and various shape shifters, and I find Ms. Owens's characters charming and delightful. At least the good guys. The bad guys are, well, appropriately evil and bad. I admit to a soft spot for dragons, and am delighted to see we have a new universe opening up in Las Vegas—and that what happens there gets shared!
Move over Anne Bishop and Patricia Briggs. It's time to welcome Tricia Owens to the playground.
Anne Moody is cursed. And she is reminded of it, daily, in a variety of ways. The cameos speak to her, an ice demon inhabits her refrigerator, ghosts pace her roof as she tries to sleep. She lives and works in a cursed house. Many would say she lives and works in a cursed city, Las Vegas.
Anne runs a pawn shop she inherited, and lives in the back of it. She also inherited the curses, the ghosts, and her dragon blood. The dragon blood is both a curse and a blessing. Those who practice magic are allowed to stay in Las Vegas, as long as they don't cause great harm, or upset the balance. The Oddsmakers see to that. The Oddsmakers are the police for the magical ones, and they are not to be trifled with.
A young man brings in a statue to pawn. A gargoyle. What he doesn't tell Anne Moody is that it's cursed and contains a demon. By day it's a stone statue, by night, it's alive – and nasty. Using her Chinese Mirror to look at it, she sees another being trapped in it, and she must do what she can to solve the mystery, to save the man trapped with the demon and to eliminate the demon, and thereby save Las Vegas. And she must do all this without using her dragon familiar too much, because dragons are not well thought of. The Oddsmakers really do not like dragons, and they wouldn't like knowing and having one in their midst.
I am quite fond of weres and various shape shifters, and I find Ms. Owens's characters charming and delightful. At least the good guys. The bad guys are, well, appropriately evil and bad. I admit to a soft spot for dragons, and am delighted to see we have a new universe opening up in Las Vegas—and that what happens there gets shared!
Move over Anne Bishop and Patricia Briggs. It's time to welcome Tricia Owens to the playground.
May 21, 2016
I will admit that when I first read the summary for "Descended from Dragons" I approached it with some trepidation. However, the author's easy writing style and imaginative world building easily put me at ease. The plot was unique and immediately drew me in. I must say that I really enjoyed this read.
Anne Moody has been raised by her uncle since her parent's tragic death when she was only four years old. Now her Uncle has been missing g for two years now and she is stuck literally running the cursed family pawn shop in Las Vegas. Additionally, Anne is descended from dragons and has to walk a straight and narrow path in order to avoid getting on the bad side of the Oddsmakers, the group that police's the Vegas paranormal community.
When a handsome redheaded man named Christian enters the pawn shop in order to sell a unique gargoyle, Anne buys it, but when the sun goes down and it comes to life she is forces to call on her Dragon. Lucky to contain it. She discovers that the gargoyles houses two beings, a handsome man named Vale and a demon. Vale is fighting what seems to be a losing battle for dominance against the evil demon. Anne is bound and determined to help Vale putting both her safety and that of her quirky cast of friends in jeopardy.
There are plenty of colorful characters including succubi, a shapeshifting monkey, werewolf, warlocks, witches and water face. There is also plenty of action, mystery and comedic moments. I really liked the character of Anne. She is fiercely loyal, determined to help the underdog as well as vulnerable. I will definitely be going on with this series!
Anne Moody has been raised by her uncle since her parent's tragic death when she was only four years old. Now her Uncle has been missing g for two years now and she is stuck literally running the cursed family pawn shop in Las Vegas. Additionally, Anne is descended from dragons and has to walk a straight and narrow path in order to avoid getting on the bad side of the Oddsmakers, the group that police's the Vegas paranormal community.
When a handsome redheaded man named Christian enters the pawn shop in order to sell a unique gargoyle, Anne buys it, but when the sun goes down and it comes to life she is forces to call on her Dragon. Lucky to contain it. She discovers that the gargoyles houses two beings, a handsome man named Vale and a demon. Vale is fighting what seems to be a losing battle for dominance against the evil demon. Anne is bound and determined to help Vale putting both her safety and that of her quirky cast of friends in jeopardy.
There are plenty of colorful characters including succubi, a shapeshifting monkey, werewolf, warlocks, witches and water face. There is also plenty of action, mystery and comedic moments. I really liked the character of Anne. She is fiercely loyal, determined to help the underdog as well as vulnerable. I will definitely be going on with this series!
May 16, 2016
I received a copy of this book directly from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Descended From Dragons by Tricia Owens was so much more than I expected. I’ll be honest; I get a dozen or more review requests a day from hopeful authors, so as you can imagine, I’m fairly picky about what I accept. This was one of those books that I saw and thought “meh… it’s going to be hokey probably, but what the hell. I haven’t read anything like it in awhile.” and I picked it up on a whim. Thank goodness I did.
I loved it. The characters were colorful and unique, the writing was fluid and easy to follow. I ran into no typos or mistakes in the narrative…. it was a joy to read—and it was funny. I so rarely get humorous romance books, so I was pleasantly surprised by this one. The idea of the magical pawn shop that Anne oversees was genius. I found it incredibly interesting, and what I wouldn’t give to be able to peruse the shelves!
If I had one (okay two) nitpicks, they’d be 1. I wish there was more romance… because it was adorable. and 2. I wish the book had been longer because I honestly didn’t want to put it down. If you’re a fan of urban fantasy / paranormal / romance with a hint of humor, I would highly recommend you pick this up and give it a try. I’ll definitely be looking forward to reading further into the series.
Descended From Dragons by Tricia Owens was so much more than I expected. I’ll be honest; I get a dozen or more review requests a day from hopeful authors, so as you can imagine, I’m fairly picky about what I accept. This was one of those books that I saw and thought “meh… it’s going to be hokey probably, but what the hell. I haven’t read anything like it in awhile.” and I picked it up on a whim. Thank goodness I did.
I loved it. The characters were colorful and unique, the writing was fluid and easy to follow. I ran into no typos or mistakes in the narrative…. it was a joy to read—and it was funny. I so rarely get humorous romance books, so I was pleasantly surprised by this one. The idea of the magical pawn shop that Anne oversees was genius. I found it incredibly interesting, and what I wouldn’t give to be able to peruse the shelves!
If I had one (okay two) nitpicks, they’d be 1. I wish there was more romance… because it was adorable. and 2. I wish the book had been longer because I honestly didn’t want to put it down. If you’re a fan of urban fantasy / paranormal / romance with a hint of humor, I would highly recommend you pick this up and give it a try. I’ll definitely be looking forward to reading further into the series.
June 3, 2016
I received this book for free in exchange for a review from NetGalley.
After I read the glowing reviews, I figured the book had to be great. I looked at the cover which looked intriguing at the very least. However, as I read the book, I just couldn't get into it. It started off fine enough with an intriguing premise of talking jewelry, but when the author decided to give me so much back information, page after page after page of information about the world that she created, I had to stop reading. It's one thing to give me a paragraph, a page but literally pages of information about her life? I just couldn't continue reading it.
Not only is it boring but it's just too much information at once. It's one thing to describe the fact that the jewelry talks (which is something to digest by itself) but to describe everything in her world with such detail and how it all works . . . She just completely overwhelmed me.
Now, would I not recommend this book? No, because I didn't finish it but just based on the first couple of chapters, I can say that I cannot give it a great review either.
After I read the glowing reviews, I figured the book had to be great. I looked at the cover which looked intriguing at the very least. However, as I read the book, I just couldn't get into it. It started off fine enough with an intriguing premise of talking jewelry, but when the author decided to give me so much back information, page after page after page of information about the world that she created, I had to stop reading. It's one thing to give me a paragraph, a page but literally pages of information about her life? I just couldn't continue reading it.
Not only is it boring but it's just too much information at once. It's one thing to describe the fact that the jewelry talks (which is something to digest by itself) but to describe everything in her world with such detail and how it all works . . . She just completely overwhelmed me.
Now, would I not recommend this book? No, because I didn't finish it but just based on the first couple of chapters, I can say that I cannot give it a great review either.
August 11, 2018
Decent read although the start is a little bit strange. It just sort of starts and I had to check this book wasn't leading on from something else. I don't dislike that but it is a little hard to keep up if your book sort of just goes off on one without prior knowledge of the book.
This being said, I did enjoy it, its not a top book but it is a good book. It has decent characters and the story introduces them all nicely. It would have been nice for this book to have shown more 'bad guys' yes we see a demon and said demon controller (is that a thing?) but we don't really see them that much and I can't explain this without giving away the plot.
Re read for a challenge and, same as before its OK. Not that in love with it a second time read around.
This being said, I did enjoy it, its not a top book but it is a good book. It has decent characters and the story introduces them all nicely. It would have been nice for this book to have shown more 'bad guys' yes we see a demon and said demon controller (is that a thing?) but we don't really see them that much and I can't explain this without giving away the plot.
Re read for a challenge and, same as before its OK. Not that in love with it a second time read around.
May 7, 2016
This is a pretty standard paranormal romance with shifters, sorcerers and demons, while it's not very long it is a good quick read.This review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
May 24, 2016
I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait to read more of this series. Great story line and strong characters. It was so much fun to read. Anne runs a cursed pawn shop in Las Vegas. She is a sorceress who is descended from Dragons. She finds a cursed Gargoyle statue. Which has a man and a Demon trapped inside. How can she get the man out and do away with the Demon with out using her powers to much?
January 14, 2017
Eh, amusing enough but not overly impressive, nothing we haven't all seen before. But I still enjoyed the couple hours it took to read it and I'd read the next one. I liked that Anne unequivocally saved the day and that the characters were racially and culturally diverse. The ending felt a bit abrupt and the world wasn't very developed. All in all, a nice fluffy book to pass the time with, as long as you're not looking for something particularly original.
Read
May 24, 2016Pretty good book! There was some spots where it was cookie cutter, with the real reason for Christian giving the gargoyle away. I can not wait to read the next book. A bit on the boring side getting to the point of freeing the Gargoyle, Hopeless.
This is a free review via netgalley, I do not get paid for this!
This is a free review via netgalley, I do not get paid for this!
October 17, 2018
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
April 20, 2016
I wasn't totally sure I would be able to continue this book when I first started it. It was weird to me at first. With a cursed shop and cursed cameos. But as I kept reading it started to get better. I can't wait for the next one in this series.
June 25, 2016
DNF 45%
October 2, 2017
This was a fast and easy read, and rather fun for what it was, but it was also just too light for me. Everything was a bit too... flippant? Perfect? Cutesy, maybe? Probably the last.
There's no doubt that this will be right up the alley of a lot of readers who want easy fantasy reads that have fast-paced plotting, and just as much humor as danger or drama. In fact, it might be just the read for a lazy summer afternoon, as there's no doubt it could be devoured in a single pool-side sitting. But, for me, I just wanted more. More depth, and a bit more of everything, so that it didn't feel as if I was being rushed along from one scene and emotion to the next, with just a breath spared for that perfect (too perfect) moment of flirting and another perfect (too perfect) moment of humor.
So, no, it wasn't for me, but I'm sure it will be perfect for some readers.
There's no doubt that this will be right up the alley of a lot of readers who want easy fantasy reads that have fast-paced plotting, and just as much humor as danger or drama. In fact, it might be just the read for a lazy summer afternoon, as there's no doubt it could be devoured in a single pool-side sitting. But, for me, I just wanted more. More depth, and a bit more of everything, so that it didn't feel as if I was being rushed along from one scene and emotion to the next, with just a breath spared for that perfect (too perfect) moment of flirting and another perfect (too perfect) moment of humor.
So, no, it wasn't for me, but I'm sure it will be perfect for some readers.
November 3, 2017
Excellent read!
This world was an adventure itself, and I loved all the characters, even to the eccentric demon summoning teenaged neighbor. Anne was a fabulous character, who seemed to take everything as is. She’d help where she could, even if it meant endangering herself. She has friends in low places, which made the story even better. I never knew what supernatural being was going to be unveiled next. Loved Vale and the sparks between him and Anne.
Lucky, her dragon familiar was so cool, and I was lost in every moment when Anne was getting lost to her dragon heritage.
Definitely intrigued enough to check out the other volumes.
Reader Rated for ages 18+ for sensuality and one on page mildly detailed sex scene; also for mild language and real life grit.
This world was an adventure itself, and I loved all the characters, even to the eccentric demon summoning teenaged neighbor. Anne was a fabulous character, who seemed to take everything as is. She’d help where she could, even if it meant endangering herself. She has friends in low places, which made the story even better. I never knew what supernatural being was going to be unveiled next. Loved Vale and the sparks between him and Anne.
Lucky, her dragon familiar was so cool, and I was lost in every moment when Anne was getting lost to her dragon heritage.
Definitely intrigued enough to check out the other volumes.
Reader Rated for ages 18+ for sensuality and one on page mildly detailed sex scene; also for mild language and real life grit.
February 16, 2017
This was a relatively interesting modern fantasy story with a main character who channels the power of a dragon, which in this story, is barely controllable. It is set in Las Vegas, and has a diverse cast, that I felt represented the weirdness of Las Vegas rather interesting. It was rather engaging throughout, though near the end, the perfect one-liners coming out of the main character who is constantly anxious about reigning in her power strained the narrative a bit, and the sex scene at the end could have been implied, which I think would have improved the book a bit. Overall, it was fun, but I'm not sure I want to read more.
March 25, 2017
Tasty!!
More fun than a barrel of monkey shifters at a rave! A completely new to me take on the urban fantasy genre. Visit Anne Moody at her cursed Vegas pawn shop and meet the varied supernatural folk who do business nearby.
I was reminded of the old Friday the 13th tv series, only without the need to chase down objects sold by the prior owner. (And no vault! Oops..) The humor is both campy and desert dry in turns. All in all a great deal of fun, that was an addictive read.
There must be more, so I'm off to find it.
More fun than a barrel of monkey shifters at a rave! A completely new to me take on the urban fantasy genre. Visit Anne Moody at her cursed Vegas pawn shop and meet the varied supernatural folk who do business nearby.
I was reminded of the old Friday the 13th tv series, only without the need to chase down objects sold by the prior owner. (And no vault! Oops..) The humor is both campy and desert dry in turns. All in all a great deal of fun, that was an addictive read.
There must be more, so I'm off to find it.
July 3, 2017
Urban fantasy book set in Las Vegas. The book suffered from a bit too much world-building in the first half but picked up in the second half. It's the first in the series so I would be interested to see where it goes in the second book when there isn't so much world building to do.
It was an easy read and the story was self contained so worth a read even if you don't like series (I try not to read them until they are complete).
It was an easy read and the story was self contained so worth a read even if you don't like series (I try not to read them until they are complete).
November 1, 2017
This story felt like it was lacking in a lot of departments. The characters did not have much depth to them. When starting a series I think it is highly important to build your base before you start adding in the elements. I did not know anything really about the main heroine and the side characters. The romance was way to rushed and should have been drawn out. I would have preferred it actually if the romance developed more in the next book to build anticipation.
August 21, 2020
Only 220 pages. I purchased this in July, 2016, apparently before I instituted my, "Needs to be at least 300 pages before I buy" criteria. At least it doesn't appear to be young adult, so there's that.
3 1/2 stars. I liked the snarky observations and her monkey shifting best friend. I've had a soft spot for gargoyles from when I used to watch the Gargoyles Disney series. Kind of, sort of a cliff hanger ending. So many books, so little time. I doubt that I will pursue this storyline.
3 1/2 stars. I liked the snarky observations and her monkey shifting best friend. I've had a soft spot for gargoyles from when I used to watch the Gargoyles Disney series. Kind of, sort of a cliff hanger ending. So many books, so little time. I doubt that I will pursue this storyline.
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