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Dark Arts #2
Hexbound
It should have been an easy task...
Verity Hastings has a little trick; she can find anything, no matter where it's hidden. It's a skill that's kept her safe and fed all the way from the orphanages and workhouses of her youth. But when she steals a mysterious item for a masked man, she knows the con is on her this time.
In order to protect herself from his associates, she can turn to only one person: Adrian Bishop, the sorcerer she stole the relic from.
Scarred recluse, Adrian Bishop, is rarely surprised anymore. But when a rather enticing little handful turns up on his doorstep claiming to be his mysterious thief, he doesn't know what to think. He needs the relic back, no matter the cost, and he's not above using Verity to find it. But as Verity begins to sneak under his guard, for the first time in years there's a ray of light in his dark world. He will do anything to protect her–anything–but can Verity ever love him once she learns the truth of his darkest secret?
Verity Hastings has a little trick; she can find anything, no matter where it's hidden. It's a skill that's kept her safe and fed all the way from the orphanages and workhouses of her youth. But when she steals a mysterious item for a masked man, she knows the con is on her this time.
In order to protect herself from his associates, she can turn to only one person: Adrian Bishop, the sorcerer she stole the relic from.
Scarred recluse, Adrian Bishop, is rarely surprised anymore. But when a rather enticing little handful turns up on his doorstep claiming to be his mysterious thief, he doesn't know what to think. He needs the relic back, no matter the cost, and he's not above using Verity to find it. But as Verity begins to sneak under his guard, for the first time in years there's a ray of light in his dark world. He will do anything to protect her–anything–but can Verity ever love him once she learns the truth of his darkest secret?
419 pages, ebook
First published October 18, 2016
104 people are currently reading
850 people want to read
About the author
Bec McMaster
65 books3,462 followersKidnapped by a dread pirate when she was a child, USA Today Bestselling Author Bec McMaster was raised on myth and legend, and offered her younger siblings to the goblin king many a time. Unfortunately, he did not accept.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 13, 2019
⭐4 stars⭐
Do you know what got me through the bad moments when I was a little girl?
The small moments.
That's what gets me through the dark days. Because I know there is another moment of joy somewhere in my future, just waiting to be lived. I'm not afraid of the dark times. I can survive them. I can survive anything. But I need these small moments to get through them.
Do you know what got me through the bad moments when I was a little girl?
The small moments.
That's what gets me through the dark days. Because I know there is another moment of joy somewhere in my future, just waiting to be lived. I'm not afraid of the dark times. I can survive them. I can survive anything. But I need these small moments to get through them.
October 17, 2016
Ok confession time, I loved the authors original London Steampunk series and have just started reading her spin off Blue Blood Conspiracy series but hadn't realised that this series was also in existence! Yes this seems to be a trilogy that starts with Shadow Bound and is found under the title Dark Arts series . Phew, so having got that out of the way what did I think?
Clearly each of these books features one of the three brothers who also happens to be a powerful Sorcerer. Sharing the same powerful father they fight an evil that threatens the very fabric of society. This book focuses on Adrian , a man so tightly connected to death magic that he cannot ever allow himself to truly let go. Yet into his life comes the confident thief Verity, who not only steals something incredibly powerful from him but challenges him in oh so many ways. Together they embark on reacquiring the missing Chalice but their hunt takes them into the underbelly of London and deeper still until it's all too obvious that an evil plan is about to come to fruition !
As usual I devoured this story and quickly found myself enmeshed in the world the author has created. Perhaps a little less like the usual steampunk stories around as its more a story of magic and not about fabulous mechanical creations but nevertheless another strong story. Yes I've missed out slightly on the initial setting up as it were but I found it very easy to follow with its mixture of intruige, action, vile bad guys and of course romance. If you enjoy slightly stiff, honourable male leads partnered with feisty, bold heroines then this book is a winner . Plus as it ends it sets up all the deliciousness that's to come from the next book and I for one cannot wait.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
Clearly each of these books features one of the three brothers who also happens to be a powerful Sorcerer. Sharing the same powerful father they fight an evil that threatens the very fabric of society. This book focuses on Adrian , a man so tightly connected to death magic that he cannot ever allow himself to truly let go. Yet into his life comes the confident thief Verity, who not only steals something incredibly powerful from him but challenges him in oh so many ways. Together they embark on reacquiring the missing Chalice but their hunt takes them into the underbelly of London and deeper still until it's all too obvious that an evil plan is about to come to fruition !
As usual I devoured this story and quickly found myself enmeshed in the world the author has created. Perhaps a little less like the usual steampunk stories around as its more a story of magic and not about fabulous mechanical creations but nevertheless another strong story. Yes I've missed out slightly on the initial setting up as it were but I found it very easy to follow with its mixture of intruige, action, vile bad guys and of course romance. If you enjoy slightly stiff, honourable male leads partnered with feisty, bold heroines then this book is a winner . Plus as it ends it sets up all the deliciousness that's to come from the next book and I for one cannot wait.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
December 18, 2016
**I was provided a pre-publication copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes.**
Awwww this book was sweet. I have to admit that in the beginning, I was not sure how I was going to feel about Hexbound because we barely got a glimpse of Adrian Bishop in the 1st book. Also, I really wanted this to be Sebastian’s book *cough*. However, Adrian turned out to be a good, thoughtful character, and the plot and characters became more developed and interesting than the previous book.
Plot: In the last book, we barely got a grasp on the world and the concepts of magic, but this book definitely made the plot and world-building more solid, more interesting. This book officially made me invested in the storyline. We met the other group, the Hex Society, where the outlaws and exiles and troublemakers belonged. This was where our main heroine, Verity, was from. And the prologue started with her stealing the dangerous relic that could potentially disrupt their society if it was in the wrong hands. Who owned that relic? Adrian. So the plot really began, as Adrian had to enlist Verity’s help to steal the relic back from the people she had stolen for before. I thought this was a very fun direction the storyline went in, especially because Adrian was an assassin and Verity was a teleporter-thief (mind you, they still ran in different circles), and they both used their combined strengths to get the relic back.
Verity: I ADOREEE Verity. She was flirtatious, bold, and sneaky in the beginning, and as the story progressed, we saw more sides to her. She was the perfect heroine for this book in my opinion because she had that perfect mixture of strength and sweetness. A lot of books, in my opinion, had “strong heroines” who turned out to be hot-blooded and unreasonable and somewhat unlikable. However, for Verity, she was strong, but she knew when she had to hold back, when to pick and choose her battles. She was wise and reasonable, and used what strengths and skills she had to her advantage. I applauded her for that, and there was never a moment where I did not like her. In addition, I appreciated seeing some of her vulnerability. She had a hard time trusting people, especially because she grew up in a place where she had to watch out for herself and survive on her own. I liked seeing her learning to reach out to others, and being a part of a new “family.” Another thing I really loved about her was that she genuinely craved knowledge, wanting to know more about different types of magic and Adrian’s magic society. She grew up with not many opportunities, but Adrian gave her the chance to learn, to be free, and to experience more.
Adrian: I liked him too. He was an assassin, so obviously he had some darkness in him, but ironically, he was also really kind, understanding, and sweet. He was an odd combination of deadly assassin and modest gentleman. I had no idea how McMaster made this work, but SHE DID. He helped Verity out, defended her honor, and gave her a chance to step into a new world. I loved him for being so respectful, but also cutely shy and insecure at times. Furthermore, he had a lot of demons and issues to tackle throughout the book, so his character storyline was intriguing, and you cannot help but root for him to find his way.
Romance: The romance was sweet. There was insta-lust, but the characters did not really act on it until later on in the book. Unlike the previous book, there was a better development on the relationship, and I loved seeing the interactions and escalating connection between the two. It was a nice, slow, but gradual build-up, and it was cute to see them tease and flirt with each other, and also talk to each other and help each other. In addition, I appreciated that he learned to respect her freedom and her own strength because he knew she could hold her own in a fight. Overall, I found Adrian and Verity to be cute and sweet.
NOTE: There was sexual content in this book.
Final Thoughts: I barely gave you a glimpse at what this book had to offer. There would be other lovable characters (like Agatha, the old, powerful smart-mouth), and we got to see how the couple from the previous book was doing. There were snippets in Sebastian’s life that would break your heart, like how it did in the first book as well. I gave this 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4) because it had an intriguing plotline, a likable heroine, an interesting hero, and a sweet romance, but still it was not my favorite. Newcomers should start at the first book, and people who already read the first book would definitely like this one. Furthermore, I liked where this book ended, setting up the stage for the next book for the final brother, Sebastian (YESSSSS).
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Cheating? Love triangle? Angst level?
Tear-jerker?
What age range would be appropriate to read this?
Did any good character die?
Anything that irked you?
Any other questions – feel free to ask. :)
"Just as an aside, I can teleport further than five feet, but a part of me wanted to get to know you a little better." His thief blew him a kiss. "Sometimes the thrill is in the chase."
Awwww this book was sweet. I have to admit that in the beginning, I was not sure how I was going to feel about Hexbound because we barely got a glimpse of Adrian Bishop in the 1st book. Also, I really wanted this to be Sebastian’s book *cough*. However, Adrian turned out to be a good, thoughtful character, and the plot and characters became more developed and interesting than the previous book.
Plot: In the last book, we barely got a grasp on the world and the concepts of magic, but this book definitely made the plot and world-building more solid, more interesting. This book officially made me invested in the storyline. We met the other group, the Hex Society, where the outlaws and exiles and troublemakers belonged. This was where our main heroine, Verity, was from. And the prologue started with her stealing the dangerous relic that could potentially disrupt their society if it was in the wrong hands. Who owned that relic? Adrian. So the plot really began, as Adrian had to enlist Verity’s help to steal the relic back from the people she had stolen for before. I thought this was a very fun direction the storyline went in, especially because Adrian was an assassin and Verity was a teleporter-thief (mind you, they still ran in different circles), and they both used their combined strengths to get the relic back.
Verity: I ADOREEE Verity. She was flirtatious, bold, and sneaky in the beginning, and as the story progressed, we saw more sides to her. She was the perfect heroine for this book in my opinion because she had that perfect mixture of strength and sweetness. A lot of books, in my opinion, had “strong heroines” who turned out to be hot-blooded and unreasonable and somewhat unlikable. However, for Verity, she was strong, but she knew when she had to hold back, when to pick and choose her battles. She was wise and reasonable, and used what strengths and skills she had to her advantage. I applauded her for that, and there was never a moment where I did not like her. In addition, I appreciated seeing some of her vulnerability. She had a hard time trusting people, especially because she grew up in a place where she had to watch out for herself and survive on her own. I liked seeing her learning to reach out to others, and being a part of a new “family.” Another thing I really loved about her was that she genuinely craved knowledge, wanting to know more about different types of magic and Adrian’s magic society. She grew up with not many opportunities, but Adrian gave her the chance to learn, to be free, and to experience more.
“I'm not afraid of the dark times. I can survive them, Bishop. I can survive anything. But I need these small moments to get through them."
Adrian: I liked him too. He was an assassin, so obviously he had some darkness in him, but ironically, he was also really kind, understanding, and sweet. He was an odd combination of deadly assassin and modest gentleman. I had no idea how McMaster made this work, but SHE DID. He helped Verity out, defended her honor, and gave her a chance to step into a new world. I loved him for being so respectful, but also cutely shy and insecure at times. Furthermore, he had a lot of demons and issues to tackle throughout the book, so his character storyline was intriguing, and you cannot help but root for him to find his way.
Romance: The romance was sweet. There was insta-lust, but the characters did not really act on it until later on in the book. Unlike the previous book, there was a better development on the relationship, and I loved seeing the interactions and escalating connection between the two. It was a nice, slow, but gradual build-up, and it was cute to see them tease and flirt with each other, and also talk to each other and help each other. In addition, I appreciated that he learned to respect her freedom and her own strength because he knew she could hold her own in a fight. Overall, I found Adrian and Verity to be cute and sweet.
NOTE: There was sexual content in this book.
Final Thoughts: I barely gave you a glimpse at what this book had to offer. There would be other lovable characters (like Agatha, the old, powerful smart-mouth), and we got to see how the couple from the previous book was doing. There were snippets in Sebastian’s life that would break your heart, like how it did in the first book as well. I gave this 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4) because it had an intriguing plotline, a likable heroine, an interesting hero, and a sweet romance, but still it was not my favorite. Newcomers should start at the first book, and people who already read the first book would definitely like this one. Furthermore, I liked where this book ended, setting up the stage for the next book for the final brother, Sebastian (YESSSSS).
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Cheating? Love triangle? Angst level?
Tear-jerker?
What age range would be appropriate to read this?
Did any good character die?
Anything that irked you?
Any other questions – feel free to ask. :)
February 17, 2018
In book two of the Dark Arts series by Bec McMaster, readers get a story that is sinfully sexy and fast-paced. I’m a big fan of Bec’s writing but this is probably one of her best books. Written with eloquence and intrigue, the pages basically turn themselves.
I was totally enraptured by the dynamics between the hero and the heroine. Their not the best characters in terms of the general public. However, together I think they are amazing. Their banter alone can make me read this entire book all over again. There’s so much tension and sexiness riddled throughout that it has quickly become one of my favorites in the series.
Also, McMaster continues to build this unique world. I love the mix of historical and magical elements. There really is no other series like this. So I found it increasingly genius of the author to come up with this world. I’m going to go out of my comfort zone and go ahead and claim all the heroes in this series. So far they have completely made me fall in love with them and if McMaster continues like this, I will definitely be a happy reader.
October 24, 2016
Everything I love about Hexbound is exactly what I struggled with in Shadowbound. I struggled with the very detailed and intense world-building in book one. Now that the hard part is over, I love, love, the society created by Bec McMasters.
Magic users are in a tenuous position in the land. The Queen allow magic to exist because they provide a valuable service to her government. However, there is a growing anti-magic element gaining popularity seeking to rid their world of this “abomination.”
Meanwhile there is a power struggle within the magical world as well revolving around the Prime, the leader of the magical realm. It involves his sons, the three spiritual objects of enormous power, and a villain very close to the family. Hexbound features the story of the second son, Adrian Bishop. Adrian belongs to an elite group of assassins who work directly for the Prime. Although, he knows he has an affinity for the role, it steals a little of his soul each time he completes an assignment. Verity Hastings grows up in one the poorest parts of surviving with a gang of criminals. Verity has a special and unique gift that makes her a highly successful thief. She is coerced into stealing one of the magical objects currently being protected by Adrian.
The overarching storyline is so wonderfully creative. The narrative is layered, nuanced and wonderfully complicated. By focusing the main storyline around a singular family, each book weaves another part of the narrative together, connecting it seamlessly with the last. I find myself completely invested in the characters and look forward to the next moment I could read another chapter. It’s a page turner.
Magic users are in a tenuous position in the land. The Queen allow magic to exist because they provide a valuable service to her government. However, there is a growing anti-magic element gaining popularity seeking to rid their world of this “abomination.”
Meanwhile there is a power struggle within the magical world as well revolving around the Prime, the leader of the magical realm. It involves his sons, the three spiritual objects of enormous power, and a villain very close to the family. Hexbound features the story of the second son, Adrian Bishop. Adrian belongs to an elite group of assassins who work directly for the Prime. Although, he knows he has an affinity for the role, it steals a little of his soul each time he completes an assignment. Verity Hastings grows up in one the poorest parts of surviving with a gang of criminals. Verity has a special and unique gift that makes her a highly successful thief. She is coerced into stealing one of the magical objects currently being protected by Adrian.
The overarching storyline is so wonderfully creative. The narrative is layered, nuanced and wonderfully complicated. By focusing the main storyline around a singular family, each book weaves another part of the narrative together, connecting it seamlessly with the last. I find myself completely invested in the characters and look forward to the next moment I could read another chapter. It’s a page turner.
Read
July 20, 2017A strong and sexy couple, fully developed world and a meaningful continuation of the story arc begun in the first book of the series: Shadowbound – Bec McMasters and Hexbound delivered in all areas. Set in an alternate London the series focuses on the HEAs of each of the three sons of the Prime Magician of the Empire. Book Two is the story of Adrian Bishop, one of the aforementioned sons, and Verity Hastings, a teleporting thief and unregistered magic user. Verity steals something left in Adrian’s care, and when she’s attacked in the dark (not in a good way) she offers to help him get it back. Steamy romance and flirtatious banter ensues. Characters from the first book are central to the plot of this one – so I’d recommend you read in sequence. I was desperate for some escapism in April and this was exactly what I was looking for.
— Tara Cheesman
from The Best Books We Read In April 2017: http://bookriot.com/2017/05/01/riot-r...
— Tara Cheesman
from The Best Books We Read In April 2017: http://bookriot.com/2017/05/01/riot-r...
November 8, 2016
I love the worlds Ms. McMater creates and I like this one too! :)
I thik this one was better than the first one that have some minor things I found irksome, probably due to the fact that it had to establish the new series.
What I liked more than anything here is Verity, the heroine! She's excellent with just the right mix of naivete and sexy playfulness! I enjoyed how she pushed Adrian out of his confort zone with her unexpected actions and words! It was hilarious to see how he reacted! But, then, his reaction became very human when it was revealed !!!
I think some of my firends here would love that! LOL
Adrian was inetersting in his own right! A very dark, very mysterious, very still man, but when taken out of his confort zone a loyal and loving too! That he's sexy is not a fault too! ;)
Here the search for the stolen artifacts continues and the mysterious prophesy continues to hound the three brothers and all the other people around them!
I liked very much that these books are closely linked to one another. Even if each book is dedicated to a brother and his love interest, they all follow the same story!
I'm looking forward to Sebastian's story! :)
I thik this one was better than the first one that have some minor things I found irksome, probably due to the fact that it had to establish the new series.
What I liked more than anything here is Verity, the heroine! She's excellent with just the right mix of naivete and sexy playfulness! I enjoyed how she pushed Adrian out of his confort zone with her unexpected actions and words! It was hilarious to see how he reacted! But, then, his reaction became very human when it was revealed !!!
I think some of my firends here would love that! LOL
Adrian was inetersting in his own right! A very dark, very mysterious, very still man, but when taken out of his confort zone a loyal and loving too! That he's sexy is not a fault too! ;)
Here the search for the stolen artifacts continues and the mysterious prophesy continues to hound the three brothers and all the other people around them!
I liked very much that these books are closely linked to one another. Even if each book is dedicated to a brother and his love interest, they all follow the same story!
I'm looking forward to Sebastian's story! :)
February 17, 2018
In book two of the Dark Arts series by Bec McMaster, readers get a story that is sinfully sexy and fast-paced. I’m a big fan of Bec’s writing but this is probably one of her best books. Written with eloquence and intrigue, the pages basically turn themselves.I was totally enraptured by the dynamics between the hero and the heroine. Their not the best characters in terms of the general public. However, together I think they are amazing. Their banter alone can make me read this entire book all over again. There’s so much tension and sexiness riddled throughout that it has quickly become one of my favorites in the series.
Also, McMaster continues to build this unique world. I love the mix of historical and magical elements. There really is no other series like this. So I found it increasingly genius of the author to come up with this world. I’m going to go out of my comfort zone and go ahead and claim all the heroes in this series. So far they have completely made me fall in love with them and if McMaster continues like this, I will definitely be a happy reader.
*Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 11, 2016
Влюбляюсь в серию все сильнее. Второй роман цепляет буквально с первых строк - автор не ходит вокруг да около и сразу же сталкивает героев лбами. А учитывая характеры этой парочки, противостояние в итоге получилось то еще))
Верити - воровка. Конечно, она себя называет иначе, очень гордясь своей способностью находить все что угодно. Однажды эта гордыня выходит ей боком - Верити подписывается украсть некую реликвию, даже не подозревая, к чему все это приведет.
Эдриан Бишоп должен был ту самую реликвию охранять и не справился. Теперь ему предстоит ее вернуть, пусть даже придется воспользоваться помощью наглой воровки.
На сей раз, когда знакомство с Дрейком и тремя его сыновьями позади, когда мир более-менее описан и известен основной конфликт, большая часть эфирного времени отводится героям. Отношения и приключения получились даже ярче и глубже, чем в первой книге.
Но и о других Бек не забыла. К примеру, Себ и Клео - эти двое интригуют все больше. И их истории обещает быть самой мощной и драматичной.
В целом, очень достойное продолжение. Единственное - несмотря на разные пары в каждом романе, их невозможно читать по отдельности, ибо слишком крепкая общая канва.
Верити - воровка. Конечно, она себя называет иначе, очень гордясь своей способностью находить все что угодно. Однажды эта гордыня выходит ей боком - Верити подписывается украсть некую реликвию, даже не подозревая, к чему все это приведет.
Эдриан Бишоп должен был ту самую реликвию охранять и не справился. Теперь ему предстоит ее вернуть, пусть даже придется воспользоваться помощью наглой воровки.
На сей раз, когда знакомство с Дрейком и тремя его сыновьями позади, когда мир более-менее описан и известен основной конфликт, большая часть эфирного времени отводится героям. Отношения и приключения получились даже ярче и глубже, чем в первой книге.
Но и о других Бек не забыла. К примеру, Себ и Клео - эти двое интригуют все больше. И их истории обещает быть самой мощной и драматичной.
В целом, очень достойное продолжение. Единственное - несмотря на разные пары в каждом романе, их невозможно читать по отдельности, ибо слишком крепкая общая канва.
December 14, 2017
I was completely intrigued by the storyline! I haven’t had a chance to read this first book yet, and from the pieces I gleaned in Hexbound, I’ve missed out on some world building and deeper explanations on the relics. That did not stop me from devouring this book though! Witty, strong, and sometimes sarcastic characterization melded into the magical aspects of the plot quite well and kept my attention engaged from beginning to end. And the romance was a sexy combo of innocence and a dash of vixen-just enough to keep things deliciously spicy. I’m really looking forward to what happens next!
September 21, 2020
I really can't wait to get into the next book. I struggled getting through this one quickly bc of family visiting from out of town but I loved it. I was able to consistently submerge myself in the story.
I loved Verity's spunk and hopeful nature. I also loved Bishop being a weighed upon, doom and gloom assassin? I don't know, I enjoyed the whole vibe of this book.
I loved Verity's spunk and hopeful nature. I also loved Bishop being a weighed upon, doom and gloom assassin? I don't know, I enjoyed the whole vibe of this book.
October 18, 2016
UGH, GOD, I FINALLY FINISHED.
First and foremost: I didn't read Shadowbound. In the first few chapters there was a scene where and that squicked me the hell out. I also distinctly recall a . So I had that in mind when I started this book.
But it's written by the author of my favourite series! Sign me the fuck up!
Maybe it was because I didn't read the opening book that I couldn't get interested in this one. It took me a day to get halfway through it! It was so unnecessarily convoluted that reading this book literally became a chore to me. The world building was somewhat intriguing, but there were so many different terms and labels that it quickly got overwhelming. Just off the top of my head: Sicarii, Expression, the Prime, Order of the Dawn Star, Relics Infernal, Ascension, Awakening, Triad Councilor etc. In the prologue, the Hero "[forges] a knife of raw matter." WHAT? How does that work???
The premise of this series doesn't feel very thought-out. Yes, there's sorcerers and magic, but what's the point? The theme of 'Sorcery in Victorian London' has been done again and again, and there's just nothing that makes this book stand out from the rest of them.
The prologue was supposedly meant to get things off to a quick start, but it followed the cliche of 'provocative female thief taunts staid, dangerous man.' A quote from the prologue: "Darkness is but a home to me."
Something that bothered me: Verity is paying off Mercy's debts (I'm still not sure what said debts are). For all intents and purposes, it's implied that Verity and Mercy have a sisterly relationship. Yet and then Mercy is only mentioned four times in 113 pages?! That makes no sense to me whatsoever.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book
First and foremost: I didn't read Shadowbound. In the first few chapters there was a scene where and that squicked me the hell out. I also distinctly recall a . So I had that in mind when I started this book.
But it's written by the author of my favourite series! Sign me the fuck up!
Maybe it was because I didn't read the opening book that I couldn't get interested in this one. It took me a day to get halfway through it! It was so unnecessarily convoluted that reading this book literally became a chore to me. The world building was somewhat intriguing, but there were so many different terms and labels that it quickly got overwhelming. Just off the top of my head: Sicarii, Expression, the Prime, Order of the Dawn Star, Relics Infernal, Ascension, Awakening, Triad Councilor etc. In the prologue, the Hero "[forges] a knife of raw matter." WHAT? How does that work???
The premise of this series doesn't feel very thought-out. Yes, there's sorcerers and magic, but what's the point? The theme of 'Sorcery in Victorian London' has been done again and again, and there's just nothing that makes this book stand out from the rest of them.
The prologue was supposedly meant to get things off to a quick start, but it followed the cliche of 'provocative female thief taunts staid, dangerous man.' A quote from the prologue: "Darkness is but a home to me."
Something that bothered me: Verity is paying off Mercy's debts (I'm still not sure what said debts are). For all intents and purposes, it's implied that Verity and Mercy have a sisterly relationship. Yet and then Mercy is only mentioned four times in 113 pages?! That makes no sense to me whatsoever.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book
December 18, 2016
Oh my! Can I give this more than 5 stars?
REVIEW
McMaster doesn’t disappoint with this latest installment in the Dark Arts series. I’ve been looking forward to reading about Adrian Bishop since Shadowbound.
There was so much to love about this book, a lot of tangled plot threads and details (obviously foreshadowing future events in other books) but my favourite was how both Bishop and Verity resonated with me as a reader.
They really appealed, they were both strong and vulnerable, and they grew in spades throughout the book. I didn't like one more than the other and, as a reader, that was really satisfying. I love to get tangled with both characters and their journey in the story.
The villains were three-dimensional – plenty of reason and justification for why they acted like they did – but I still hated them for what they did to other characters.
The introduction of the Hex was another layer to this world and added more depth to what is already a world rich in detail. I really liked getting to know a bit about them.
The epilogue was a real twang on the heart with how Sebastian was handled, especially when he realised revenge sucked and he'd made a huge mistake giving into the demon.
Another great read in this series, and I look forward to the next.
REVIEW
McMaster doesn’t disappoint with this latest installment in the Dark Arts series. I’ve been looking forward to reading about Adrian Bishop since Shadowbound.
There was so much to love about this book, a lot of tangled plot threads and details (obviously foreshadowing future events in other books) but my favourite was how both Bishop and Verity resonated with me as a reader.
They really appealed, they were both strong and vulnerable, and they grew in spades throughout the book. I didn't like one more than the other and, as a reader, that was really satisfying. I love to get tangled with both characters and their journey in the story.
The villains were three-dimensional – plenty of reason and justification for why they acted like they did – but I still hated them for what they did to other characters.
The introduction of the Hex was another layer to this world and added more depth to what is already a world rich in detail. I really liked getting to know a bit about them.
The epilogue was a real twang on the heart with how Sebastian was handled, especially when he realised revenge sucked and he'd made a huge mistake giving into the demon.
Another great read in this series, and I look forward to the next.
November 14, 2016
"You are my hope. You are my everything. I love you, Verity, and I will spend the rest of my life proving that to you."
Boy, do I love McMaster's heroines! They're awesome... and Verity joins that list. Reading about how she outrageously flirting and taunting Adrian, the virgin assassin has been a blast!
Right from the very beginning, when Verity was able to outwit Adrian and stole the chalice, she won my heart. I thought she was incredible. When she asked Adrien for help, it didn't make her a damsel in distress in any way. I loved that Verity held her own, even facing one of the most dangerous assassins.
Adrian was a good hero too -- but this was a case where the heroine hogged all the spotlight for me. Couldn't get enough of Verity.
I still wasn't completely immersed with the world, though. Sure the whole demon and Morgana trying to break Drake as Prime was interesting, but it didn't grab me as much as the London Steampunk conspiracy or the danger of the Burned Lands. Having said that, I would NOT miss the next book when the final showdown happened.
I just have to wait until next year until Sebastian and Cleo's story. Urgh.
November 27, 2016
I really liked book 1 but this was a bit slow for me. It took me a month to finish and romance books do not take me a month to finish. I am interested enough to read the next book tho.
January 7, 2017
4-1/2 stars.
Bec McMaster is a genius.
Bec McMaster is a genius.
May 13, 2017
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review :)
damn you Bec McMaster for making me cry!!! :) what a phenomenal book this was... as much as I enjoyed the first one, this sequel was soooooo much better... and now I am gonna die from curiosity waiting for that third installmet... ;) GAH!!! :) I need a few days to gather my thoughts, since I am still fighting a very nasty cold / fever but expect my full review soon :)
edited to add my full review :)
I got my hands on the ARC of this book and damn... I couldn't be more happy about it :) as much as I enjoyed the first book in this series... the sequel is soooooo much better :) since it's a second book in a series where the stories are pretty connected, writing this review might be a little tricky, but I will do my best not to spoil you on anything and at the same time convince you to give it a try :) so how about I will start with a little background on the whole world and what's been going on in it ;) no worries, spoiler free even if you are completely new to this series :)
Ok, so this particular series is a mix of Victorian London with just a bit of steampunk-ish vibes and all sorts of sorcery and magical relics :) three of them are actually very important to the story: the blade (which played a huge part in the first story), the chalice (quite important in this book) and the wand, which I'm assuming will come up in the third book ;) the number three is important for more reasons than just those relics, but I absolutely cannot tell you why :) in case you haven't read that first book, because it's a spoiler :) even though each book concentrates on a different main couple, I would highly recommend you to read this series in order... because there are a lot of bigger things going on than just the romance part with each couple, not to mention that those people appear not only in their respective books, but in other ones as well... and trust me, you don't want to miss those scenes... ;) so far one of my favourite parts of both books were the scenes between the characters who will be hero and heroine in that third story, so I know what I'm saying :) ok, now that this little explanation is out of the way, how about we concentrate on this particular book that this review is all about, worry not, it will be totally spoiler free :)
Adrian and Verity... *sighs happily* I had sooooo much fun reading about them... :) Adrian is this mysterious assassin, shrouded in secrets... and to make matters even more interesting... *coughs* virgin hero *coughs* ;) ever since he was introduced in the previous book I was very curious about him and wanted to know more... he doesn't talk too much, mostly keeps to himself... for very good reasons, but still... I wondered who will pull him out of that existence... :) and damn... Verity was everything I was hoping for his heroine :) she's a new character and... well... she is spectacular :) sassy and sarcastic, they met when she... there's no other way to say it so I'm just gonna do it... :) when she broke into his house to steal that very important magical relic I mentioned earlier... :) I know, not the very best first meeting... ;) and it gets better and better from there :) I don't want to spoil you every little detail about their journey together, because one of the things I love in Bec McMaster's books are those totally surprising twists and turns, so instead of that, I will say that all that banter and interactions between Adrian and Verity were absolutely, without a doubt, my favourite part of the book :) I actually have a pretty good quote that shows one of the conversations between them closer to the begining of the story :) normally if I have quotes, I put them at the end of my review, but I sort of... marked this one and then... well... I totally got sucked into the story and that is the only one I have so I decided why not just put it here :) so here it is for you guys:
"Miss Hawkins's pretty green eyes narrowed. 'Who could not like me?'
'Oh, I've a person or two in mind.'
The suden smile she graced him with made him uncomfortable. 'That's because you've barely had a chance to get to know me. I'll grow on you, Bishop.'
'Like ivy, no doubt.'
'Well,' she murmured under her breath as she pressed close to his side, 'I didn't realize you wanted me to get that close to you. Perhaps if you smiled a little more, I might consider wrapping myself all over you. Like ivy, as you say. You do have pretty eyes, after all.'"
And I swear to you guys that this is just a tiny glimpse into all the awesomeness that awaits you in this story :) there is of course much more to both of them, they each hide secrets, but since I have that no-spoilers rule and all, I won't say anything else :) I will let you discover all of that on your own... trust me, it's soooo much better this way ;)
Besides our phenomenal main couple, we have of course a bunch of secondary characters as well :) there's Ianthe and Lucien, couple from the first book... and I have to say that I enjoyed them much more now that all of their *stuff* is resolved :) and of course we cannot forget about my absolutely favourite pair of characters... the main couple from the third book :) and no, I won't say their names... it can be counted as a spoiler, especially if you haven't read the first book, sooooo... but I can say, that I am absolutely in love with both of them... AND I have no idea how Bec McMaster will end that particular story... I mean, I trust her that she will give them an amazing and beautiful ending, but... how will she get there? I have no idea whatsoever :) but I learned to just stop predicting what's gonna happen next in her books a long time ago... she always does something that shocks me and blows my mind :) there were of course a few more that I would love to name here, but... you know... too spoilery ;) #SorryNotSorry ;)
As much as I enjoyed that first book, the sequel is definitely much better :) or at least it feels like that to me, becauce I loved the main couple more in this installment :) it's connected to my personal preferences as a reader, and that first story just... let's just say that this one is exactly the type I love to read about :) the interactions between Verity and Bishop... or just Verity and other people were soooo entertaining :) I loved her from the start and to see how the journey she's on progresses throughout this story was fantastic :) but the romance is not the only great part of this book :) we also get to know much more about the world and all of the rules, and how different people learn to live in it... I know I'm being vague, but I don't want to ruin certain surprises along the way ;) I highly recommend this author, because her writing style is absolutely amazing... even if I'm not the biggest fan of a certain character or event taking place in the story, her books are always gems when it comes to the quality of writing... I am hooked from the beginning to the very end, never knowing what exactly gonna happen on the next page... it is an uncanny ability to be able to pull a reader inside your story like that, and Bec McMaster does it every single time... :) I cannot wait to see what she has prepared for us next, so if you are looking for a great read, then definitely give this series of hers a try... or any other stories she wrote :) trust me, there is no wrong choice here :)
XOXO
A
for more book-ish stuff visit:
my blog -> https://bookworm8619.blogspot.com
my facebook page -> https://facebook.com/bookworm8619
damn you Bec McMaster for making me cry!!! :) what a phenomenal book this was... as much as I enjoyed the first one, this sequel was soooooo much better... and now I am gonna die from curiosity waiting for that third installmet... ;) GAH!!! :) I need a few days to gather my thoughts, since I am still fighting a very nasty cold / fever but expect my full review soon :)
edited to add my full review :)
I got my hands on the ARC of this book and damn... I couldn't be more happy about it :) as much as I enjoyed the first book in this series... the sequel is soooooo much better :) since it's a second book in a series where the stories are pretty connected, writing this review might be a little tricky, but I will do my best not to spoil you on anything and at the same time convince you to give it a try :) so how about I will start with a little background on the whole world and what's been going on in it ;) no worries, spoiler free even if you are completely new to this series :)
Ok, so this particular series is a mix of Victorian London with just a bit of steampunk-ish vibes and all sorts of sorcery and magical relics :) three of them are actually very important to the story: the blade (which played a huge part in the first story), the chalice (quite important in this book) and the wand, which I'm assuming will come up in the third book ;) the number three is important for more reasons than just those relics, but I absolutely cannot tell you why :) in case you haven't read that first book, because it's a spoiler :) even though each book concentrates on a different main couple, I would highly recommend you to read this series in order... because there are a lot of bigger things going on than just the romance part with each couple, not to mention that those people appear not only in their respective books, but in other ones as well... and trust me, you don't want to miss those scenes... ;) so far one of my favourite parts of both books were the scenes between the characters who will be hero and heroine in that third story, so I know what I'm saying :) ok, now that this little explanation is out of the way, how about we concentrate on this particular book that this review is all about, worry not, it will be totally spoiler free :)
Adrian and Verity... *sighs happily* I had sooooo much fun reading about them... :) Adrian is this mysterious assassin, shrouded in secrets... and to make matters even more interesting... *coughs* virgin hero *coughs* ;) ever since he was introduced in the previous book I was very curious about him and wanted to know more... he doesn't talk too much, mostly keeps to himself... for very good reasons, but still... I wondered who will pull him out of that existence... :) and damn... Verity was everything I was hoping for his heroine :) she's a new character and... well... she is spectacular :) sassy and sarcastic, they met when she... there's no other way to say it so I'm just gonna do it... :) when she broke into his house to steal that very important magical relic I mentioned earlier... :) I know, not the very best first meeting... ;) and it gets better and better from there :) I don't want to spoil you every little detail about their journey together, because one of the things I love in Bec McMaster's books are those totally surprising twists and turns, so instead of that, I will say that all that banter and interactions between Adrian and Verity were absolutely, without a doubt, my favourite part of the book :) I actually have a pretty good quote that shows one of the conversations between them closer to the begining of the story :) normally if I have quotes, I put them at the end of my review, but I sort of... marked this one and then... well... I totally got sucked into the story and that is the only one I have so I decided why not just put it here :) so here it is for you guys:
"Miss Hawkins's pretty green eyes narrowed. 'Who could not like me?'
'Oh, I've a person or two in mind.'
The suden smile she graced him with made him uncomfortable. 'That's because you've barely had a chance to get to know me. I'll grow on you, Bishop.'
'Like ivy, no doubt.'
'Well,' she murmured under her breath as she pressed close to his side, 'I didn't realize you wanted me to get that close to you. Perhaps if you smiled a little more, I might consider wrapping myself all over you. Like ivy, as you say. You do have pretty eyes, after all.'"
And I swear to you guys that this is just a tiny glimpse into all the awesomeness that awaits you in this story :) there is of course much more to both of them, they each hide secrets, but since I have that no-spoilers rule and all, I won't say anything else :) I will let you discover all of that on your own... trust me, it's soooo much better this way ;)
Besides our phenomenal main couple, we have of course a bunch of secondary characters as well :) there's Ianthe and Lucien, couple from the first book... and I have to say that I enjoyed them much more now that all of their *stuff* is resolved :) and of course we cannot forget about my absolutely favourite pair of characters... the main couple from the third book :) and no, I won't say their names... it can be counted as a spoiler, especially if you haven't read the first book, sooooo... but I can say, that I am absolutely in love with both of them... AND I have no idea how Bec McMaster will end that particular story... I mean, I trust her that she will give them an amazing and beautiful ending, but... how will she get there? I have no idea whatsoever :) but I learned to just stop predicting what's gonna happen next in her books a long time ago... she always does something that shocks me and blows my mind :) there were of course a few more that I would love to name here, but... you know... too spoilery ;) #SorryNotSorry ;)
As much as I enjoyed that first book, the sequel is definitely much better :) or at least it feels like that to me, becauce I loved the main couple more in this installment :) it's connected to my personal preferences as a reader, and that first story just... let's just say that this one is exactly the type I love to read about :) the interactions between Verity and Bishop... or just Verity and other people were soooo entertaining :) I loved her from the start and to see how the journey she's on progresses throughout this story was fantastic :) but the romance is not the only great part of this book :) we also get to know much more about the world and all of the rules, and how different people learn to live in it... I know I'm being vague, but I don't want to ruin certain surprises along the way ;) I highly recommend this author, because her writing style is absolutely amazing... even if I'm not the biggest fan of a certain character or event taking place in the story, her books are always gems when it comes to the quality of writing... I am hooked from the beginning to the very end, never knowing what exactly gonna happen on the next page... it is an uncanny ability to be able to pull a reader inside your story like that, and Bec McMaster does it every single time... :) I cannot wait to see what she has prepared for us next, so if you are looking for a great read, then definitely give this series of hers a try... or any other stories she wrote :) trust me, there is no wrong choice here :)
XOXO
A
for more book-ish stuff visit:
my blog -> https://bookworm8619.blogspot.com
my facebook page -> https://facebook.com/bookworm8619
October 7, 2017
Oh boy ... book 3 better get here as fast as it can coz things are about to go down ! And yassssss to finally getting Cleo and Sebastian's story !!! Also , there were certain things that I was not expecting ... :,(
did-not-finish
May 31, 2018I struggled a bit with the first one in this series, but was able to mostly enjoy it. I just couldn't get into this one though -- the insta-lust, dramadramadrama was too much. I miss McMaster's Sourcebooks editor.
Gave up at 30%.
Gave up at 30%.
February 1, 2020
Picking up a few weeks after the events of Shadowbound, we find brooding assassin, 7th level Sorcerer Adrian Bishop being robbed of a powerful dark relic in the middle of the night by a thief with unusual talents. Double crossed by the client, Verity Hawkins (listed as Hastings in the blurb) is forced to work with the very person she should fear.
This was Adrian's story and it was awesome. I can take or leave Verity, as she really was basically a side character for Adrian's journey, even though she was the heroine and love interest. Adrian is that much a force here and I loved every minute of it.
This was Adrian's story and it was awesome. I can take or leave Verity, as she really was basically a side character for Adrian's journey, even though she was the heroine and love interest. Adrian is that much a force here and I loved every minute of it.
June 11, 2018
My Favorite Historical Urban Fantasy Author
McMasters writes fabulous historical urban fantasy romance and I love the Dark Arts series. I world building is good. It has like able characters, and very hot sexy scenes. The ending for me seemed rushed to jump into book three. The entire cast of characters from the first book are all represented, plus a few new. The author set up the character of Mercy as pivotal to Verity, but then she disappeared into the background.
The connection between Verity and Bishop was not on the same visceral level of Ianthe and Lucien, which was a disappointment. Normally McMasters coupling of her characters are spot on, but this one seemed to easy, to quick with the I love you.
In all this isn’t McMasters best book, but it is a good book.
McMasters writes fabulous historical urban fantasy romance and I love the Dark Arts series. I world building is good. It has like able characters, and very hot sexy scenes. The ending for me seemed rushed to jump into book three. The entire cast of characters from the first book are all represented, plus a few new. The author set up the character of Mercy as pivotal to Verity, but then she disappeared into the background.
The connection between Verity and Bishop was not on the same visceral level of Ianthe and Lucien, which was a disappointment. Normally McMasters coupling of her characters are spot on, but this one seemed to easy, to quick with the I love you.
In all this isn’t McMasters best book, but it is a good book.
April 2, 2018
Oh how we love our tortured heroes *le sigh*
Onwards to book three!!
June 8, 2025
5 Stars:)
March 10, 2024
Okay so we do get a fair bit more plot and action in this book as compared to book 1, which, quite frankly, was too saturated with mediocre sex-scenes to be of much significance plot-wise. We also get to understand better how the magical system in this book works. Especially how The Order is compared to the Hex. So thank god for that. In general, this book just feels more focused and better set-up than book 1.
I really enjoyed Adrian's character. He's complex and powerful, but also kind and generous and sometimes shy and inexperienced and awkward. He's got his demons he wrestles with, and we get to watc as he figures out that he doesn't need to be isolated from everybody and it's really sweet. I like how Verity is with him, how she's understanding, and isn't afraid to show him how to love her. [I'm not really a fan of virginity tropes, but I do like that this one was flipped on its head].
I was slower to warm up to Verity. She sometimes read as trying too hard to be witty and clever. And Christ in the beginning of the book she's nothing but a cock-tease and it overshot sexy right into "Girl quit."
Then there was a bit about halfway through where I wanted to throat punch her because she assumes that Adrian paying her way out of the Crows came with stipulations. IE - he bought her for sex. Despite Adrian being VERY open and clear that that is absolutely NOT what happened.
I get she has trust issues. I do. And it would have been understandable if she hadn't been CONSTANTLY trying to get into homeboy's pants. Like did she want him to want her and expect sex from her, or didn't she? Because she played games, then got indignant when she thought he wanted sex.
Thankfully that sort of attitude didn't last the whole book or it would have destroyed everything for me. She actually comes out as a strong and mature, capable character and a good equally powerful partner for Adrian. Which I very much enjoyed.
There's a lot less interruptions from other characters in this book too. We only see flashes of Chloe and Sebastian (necessary inclusions that were related directly to the plot) rather than have their whole story taking place along side the main couple. Book one didn't really balance the POVs very well, but it feels much better here.
About 40% of the way into this book, the cup basically ceased to be a plot point. There never really seemed to be any urgency in getting it back. The focus became much more about keeping the Prime safe and then dealing with weird wizard politics. I dunno. I sort of stopped caring about it too to be honest, the Prime plot could have been the ONLY plot and I'd have been happy.
The writing was marginally better too, I think. I had less issues with it than in book 1. But there were still things that irked me. Like McMaster's use of the word supernova. It's a word she reaches for often--when the word didn't exist in 1894 (it was coined in 1931, yes, I googled it). Look I didn't choose to make this a historical fantasy. I didn't choose to set it in the real world in a real timeline. You do that shit, you don't use modern words that don't belong. It'd be like reading a Viking story, and having them go "yah breh that was so lit, no cap" after razing a village. :|
Anyway, this was definitely better than book 1. And I liked the couple a LOT more. 3.5 stars rounded up
Reader's Notes:
I really enjoyed Adrian's character. He's complex and powerful, but also kind and generous and sometimes shy and inexperienced and awkward. He's got his demons he wrestles with, and we get to watc as he figures out that he doesn't need to be isolated from everybody and it's really sweet. I like how Verity is with him, how she's understanding, and isn't afraid to show him how to love her. [I'm not really a fan of virginity tropes, but I do like that this one was flipped on its head].
I was slower to warm up to Verity. She sometimes read as trying too hard to be witty and clever. And Christ in the beginning of the book she's nothing but a cock-tease and it overshot sexy right into "Girl quit."
Then there was a bit about halfway through where I wanted to throat punch her because she assumes that Adrian paying her way out of the Crows came with stipulations. IE - he bought her for sex. Despite Adrian being VERY open and clear that that is absolutely NOT what happened.
I get she has trust issues. I do. And it would have been understandable if she hadn't been CONSTANTLY trying to get into homeboy's pants. Like did she want him to want her and expect sex from her, or didn't she? Because she played games, then got indignant when she thought he wanted sex.
Thankfully that sort of attitude didn't last the whole book or it would have destroyed everything for me. She actually comes out as a strong and mature, capable character and a good equally powerful partner for Adrian. Which I very much enjoyed.
There's a lot less interruptions from other characters in this book too. We only see flashes of Chloe and Sebastian (necessary inclusions that were related directly to the plot) rather than have their whole story taking place along side the main couple. Book one didn't really balance the POVs very well, but it feels much better here.
About 40% of the way into this book, the cup basically ceased to be a plot point. There never really seemed to be any urgency in getting it back. The focus became much more about keeping the Prime safe and then dealing with weird wizard politics. I dunno. I sort of stopped caring about it too to be honest, the Prime plot could have been the ONLY plot and I'd have been happy.
The writing was marginally better too, I think. I had less issues with it than in book 1. But there were still things that irked me. Like McMaster's use of the word supernova. It's a word she reaches for often--when the word didn't exist in 1894 (it was coined in 1931, yes, I googled it). Look I didn't choose to make this a historical fantasy. I didn't choose to set it in the real world in a real timeline. You do that shit, you don't use modern words that don't belong. It'd be like reading a Viking story, and having them go "yah breh that was so lit, no cap" after razing a village. :|
Anyway, this was definitely better than book 1. And I liked the couple a LOT more. 3.5 stars rounded up
Reader's Notes:
March 12, 2017
Liked it better than the first. Could be due to all the Agatha scenes.
October 18, 2016
An amazing romantic adventure through a magical and dangerous new world.
I was provided a pre-publication copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes.
Hexbound begins with a bang, a furious magical chase and battle between the hero and heroine. Adrian Bishop is the illegitimate son of the Prime, the most powerful practitioner of magic in the realm and its political leader. One of the five feared Sicarii, the order of assassins who protect the Order from all threats, Adrian has been charged with guarding The Chalice- one of three infernal relics with the terrifying power to control a demon. He is shocked out of his troubled sleep by a thief in his home who is inexplicably barreling through every ward and charm he crafted to protect The Chalice. Verity Hawkins is an unregistered Mage with amazing powers of teleportation and the ability to track any person or object. Growing up in the workhouse and then the deadly One Eyed Crow gang of outlaw hex witches in Seven Dials London she knows nothing, even kindness, is ever free. Escaping the intriguing scarred sorcerer with her prize she finds herself back on his doorstep, bleeding and desperate to escape the people who commissioned the sale and then attacked her and her Gang's leader.
Initially imprisoned by Adrian, Verity and he embark on a mission to recover the chalice and discover who is behind the most recent attacks on The Prime and the Order Of The Dawn Star practitioners. Adrian is an interesting and dark hero. Scarred physically and emotionally by his past and his current profession he is further weighed down by his natural inclination to the Grave Arts and his craving for the power that comes from death. Facing the inevitable "maladroise" or compulsion to kill that all Grave Arts practitioners eventually succumb to, and haunted by a disastrous early romance, Adrian has determined to live out his days in solitude until a beguiling minx of a thief pulls him back towards the living. Verity is a strong and charming self-made heroine. Using her innate but untrained powers to escape from the workhouse as a child, she has carved out a life in the rough "kill or be killed" world of the Hex Gangs. Living in the toughest area of London, unregulated by the Order and society's rules, being smart and talented is the only thing that has kept Verity from ruin and a life "lifting her skirts" for a living. Her cheeky and lively ways are a complete contrast to the dour but polite Adrian who uses training and discipline to tamp down his darkest urges. After spending a month silently observing Adrian before her theft, Verity thought the fascination and attraction she felt for him would only fade, but as she spends more time with him and begins to understand his fundamental decency and powerful attraction she begins to do something she never dared to before: hope for a future.
Hexbound is truly a masterful work and is Bec McMaster at what she does best. The world building is intricate and facinating and the romance veers from hot to sweet to heartbreaking and back again as the pages turn. While Shadowbound did the heavy lifting of setting up the world, the legacy and the main characters, Hexbound is free to pick those strands and run with them. The result is a fast paced, sexy and exciting story that not only gives Verity and Adrian their due as a couple, but expands on the overarching tale of the legacy and continues the story of the third brother Sebastian and his devoted wife Cleo. I highly recommend this book to fans of the genre and feel (as I rarely do) that new readers could even start with this second book in the series as their jumping off point.
This was one of, if not my favorite book so far in 2016.
I was provided a pre-publication copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes.
Hexbound begins with a bang, a furious magical chase and battle between the hero and heroine. Adrian Bishop is the illegitimate son of the Prime, the most powerful practitioner of magic in the realm and its political leader. One of the five feared Sicarii, the order of assassins who protect the Order from all threats, Adrian has been charged with guarding The Chalice- one of three infernal relics with the terrifying power to control a demon. He is shocked out of his troubled sleep by a thief in his home who is inexplicably barreling through every ward and charm he crafted to protect The Chalice. Verity Hawkins is an unregistered Mage with amazing powers of teleportation and the ability to track any person or object. Growing up in the workhouse and then the deadly One Eyed Crow gang of outlaw hex witches in Seven Dials London she knows nothing, even kindness, is ever free. Escaping the intriguing scarred sorcerer with her prize she finds herself back on his doorstep, bleeding and desperate to escape the people who commissioned the sale and then attacked her and her Gang's leader.
Initially imprisoned by Adrian, Verity and he embark on a mission to recover the chalice and discover who is behind the most recent attacks on The Prime and the Order Of The Dawn Star practitioners. Adrian is an interesting and dark hero. Scarred physically and emotionally by his past and his current profession he is further weighed down by his natural inclination to the Grave Arts and his craving for the power that comes from death. Facing the inevitable "maladroise" or compulsion to kill that all Grave Arts practitioners eventually succumb to, and haunted by a disastrous early romance, Adrian has determined to live out his days in solitude until a beguiling minx of a thief pulls him back towards the living. Verity is a strong and charming self-made heroine. Using her innate but untrained powers to escape from the workhouse as a child, she has carved out a life in the rough "kill or be killed" world of the Hex Gangs. Living in the toughest area of London, unregulated by the Order and society's rules, being smart and talented is the only thing that has kept Verity from ruin and a life "lifting her skirts" for a living. Her cheeky and lively ways are a complete contrast to the dour but polite Adrian who uses training and discipline to tamp down his darkest urges. After spending a month silently observing Adrian before her theft, Verity thought the fascination and attraction she felt for him would only fade, but as she spends more time with him and begins to understand his fundamental decency and powerful attraction she begins to do something she never dared to before: hope for a future.
Hexbound is truly a masterful work and is Bec McMaster at what she does best. The world building is intricate and facinating and the romance veers from hot to sweet to heartbreaking and back again as the pages turn. While Shadowbound did the heavy lifting of setting up the world, the legacy and the main characters, Hexbound is free to pick those strands and run with them. The result is a fast paced, sexy and exciting story that not only gives Verity and Adrian their due as a couple, but expands on the overarching tale of the legacy and continues the story of the third brother Sebastian and his devoted wife Cleo. I highly recommend this book to fans of the genre and feel (as I rarely do) that new readers could even start with this second book in the series as their jumping off point.
This was one of, if not my favorite book so far in 2016.
March 11, 2017
Love this series. Bec McMaster does powerful worlds with great characters. I'm addicted.
December 28, 2016
ein starker zweiter Teil der Serie, obwohl ich die Love-Story in Band 1 etwas besser fand. Zwischen Adrian und Verity hat mir der gewisse Funken etwas gefehlt. Aber die Entwicklung zwischen den beiden war trotzdem schön zu lesen, die Entwicklung war halt etwas ruhiger.
Die Nebencharaktere waren wieder toll und vor allem Lady E. war großartig. Jetzt warte ich sehnsüchtig auf das Buch von Sebastian und Cleo. Das könnte das Highlight der Serie werden, da ich schon seit Band 1 immer auf die Kapitel aus Sicht der beiden hin fiebere!
Die Nebencharaktere waren wieder toll und vor allem Lady E. war großartig. Jetzt warte ich sehnsüchtig auf das Buch von Sebastian und Cleo. Das könnte das Highlight der Serie werden, da ich schon seit Band 1 immer auf die Kapitel aus Sicht der beiden hin fiebere!
January 2, 2017
Review to come.
February 19, 2018
London 1894 - Bishops highly warded mansion, Seven Dials rookery(street gang side of town), Willoughby Hollow - sacred place with ley line and celebrations and rituals;
Verity Hawkins Hastings: has magic, can tele-transport, a finder, self-trained; a thief attached to the One-Eyed Crows since 12 years old, a magic gangs on the street; her boss hired to steal a magiked chalice - which Bishop has in his warded safe; she watches him for 2 weeks, learning his habits, seeing he doesn't sleep, and steals it (though he's trying to block her); 2 days later, she is on his doorstep, having been attacked by the ones who contracted for the chalice... they become partners to recover it;
Adrian Bishop: Sicarii - lethal edge of the sorcerous Order of the Dawn Star - ie assassin; Dark Arts - and a part of him is being pulled to the power of taking a death; Verity entrances him, calls to him... and when she comes to him for refuge, he knows she is his ticket to recover the chalice; understanding and trust grows, and they become a true team;
Morgana Devereaux: the Prime's ex-wife; working with demon to manipulate her son; in trade for chance to kill the Prime;
Mercy: Verity's sister of the heart; I'm not sure why she's in the story, beyond their being united in youth, she doesn't help her much in this story, and they do not buy out her contract (yet?) - maybe next book?;
Ianthe & Lucien Deveraeaux: Bishop comes to them to ask them to protect the Prime, as he searches for the chalice; in the end, Ianthe (the Prime's second in command) becomes Prime by default... hmmm
Drake De Wynter, ex-Prime & Eleanor: he is putting family first... Eleanor is getting better slowly; and in the end, Drake sacrifices himself for his son, taking his place as the demon's host, depending on his sons to save him;
Lady Eberhardt: elderly woman, Bishop's mentor, funny, strong, loving; takes Verity under her wings.
Demon: manipulates (mentally and physically) Sebastian to accept him for 6 hours... in order to negotiate with Drake;
Sebastian Montcalm and Cleo: Sebastian trades himself for Cleo, submitting to the collar and the torture... Drake mentally connects with him a few times, trying to find him, but Sebastian blocks him, not trusting him - afterall he chose his other son to save before...
As Verity and Bishop work together, they become of one accord, and Verity is happy to learn more of magic, and of him... they finally get the chalice back... she encourages him to enjoy and live in this moment, not to worry about the future - though he fears his maldroise (the pull of the dark) will take over his mind in the future.
The battling for Prime begins... Ianthe eliminates her opponent... before the next battle, Sebastian shows up to challenge, but she recognizes him as demon... Demon trades Sebastian's body for The ex-Prime - agreeing not to hurt his family, or the city... hmmmm
Verity Hawkins Hastings: has magic, can tele-transport, a finder, self-trained; a thief attached to the One-Eyed Crows since 12 years old, a magic gangs on the street; her boss hired to steal a magiked chalice - which Bishop has in his warded safe; she watches him for 2 weeks, learning his habits, seeing he doesn't sleep, and steals it (though he's trying to block her); 2 days later, she is on his doorstep, having been attacked by the ones who contracted for the chalice... they become partners to recover it;
Adrian Bishop: Sicarii - lethal edge of the sorcerous Order of the Dawn Star - ie assassin; Dark Arts - and a part of him is being pulled to the power of taking a death; Verity entrances him, calls to him... and when she comes to him for refuge, he knows she is his ticket to recover the chalice; understanding and trust grows, and they become a true team;
Morgana Devereaux: the Prime's ex-wife; working with demon to manipulate her son; in trade for chance to kill the Prime;
Mercy: Verity's sister of the heart; I'm not sure why she's in the story, beyond their being united in youth, she doesn't help her much in this story, and they do not buy out her contract (yet?) - maybe next book?;
Ianthe & Lucien Deveraeaux: Bishop comes to them to ask them to protect the Prime, as he searches for the chalice; in the end, Ianthe (the Prime's second in command) becomes Prime by default... hmmm
Drake De Wynter, ex-Prime & Eleanor: he is putting family first... Eleanor is getting better slowly; and in the end, Drake sacrifices himself for his son, taking his place as the demon's host, depending on his sons to save him;
Lady Eberhardt: elderly woman, Bishop's mentor, funny, strong, loving; takes Verity under her wings.
Demon: manipulates (mentally and physically) Sebastian to accept him for 6 hours... in order to negotiate with Drake;
Sebastian Montcalm and Cleo: Sebastian trades himself for Cleo, submitting to the collar and the torture... Drake mentally connects with him a few times, trying to find him, but Sebastian blocks him, not trusting him - afterall he chose his other son to save before...
As Verity and Bishop work together, they become of one accord, and Verity is happy to learn more of magic, and of him... they finally get the chalice back... she encourages him to enjoy and live in this moment, not to worry about the future - though he fears his maldroise (the pull of the dark) will take over his mind in the future.
The battling for Prime begins... Ianthe eliminates her opponent... before the next battle, Sebastian shows up to challenge, but she recognizes him as demon... Demon trades Sebastian's body for The ex-Prime - agreeing not to hurt his family, or the city... hmmmm
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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