Magic's Song

Nocturne Falls Universe

by Sela Carsen, Kristen Painter (Foreword)

Welcome to Nocturne Falls, where there’s a supernatural on every corner, if you have the magic to see them. Trick Scanlon is introduced to town when a playful horse nearly drowns him. Saved by a mermaid’s song, he’s just looking for a place to catch his breath. He never expects to be so drawn to his beautiful savior. Daria Don’t-Call-Me-A-Mermaid Czernovitch has changed so much her stalker won’t ever find her. She has great friends – witches, gargoyles, and fairies – and she feels safe… until a former Army Ranger turned country music star pulls her into his spotlight. Can he find his own magic? And will his fame threaten the anonymity she values so much? They make sweet harmony together, but one sour note could ruin it all.

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Magic, Chick Lit, Novella

71 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 24, 2017

About the author

Short version:
Sela Carsen is an award-winning author of paranormal and sci-fi romance -- with or without sex and dead bodies. Your pick. She maintains a permanent nerd-on for fairytales and mythology, and openly hoards reference books about obscure folklore. Born a wanderer, she and her family have finally settled in the Midwest. Until they move again, at least.

Long and rambly, but funnier version:
In addition to writing, I’m a wife to a Darn Near Perfect Husband and mom to Two Great Kids. They used to be the Monkey children, but they seem to have settled down a bit. (That’s going to come back and bite me on the butt as soon as you read this!)

I have a BA in French (utterly useless, but fun at parties) and another BA in Communication. While I was getting the Communication degree, I wrote for my alumni magazine, dipped my feet into advertising, took want ads at the local paper and even wrote obituaries. I was also a reporter at a small-town daily, but soon realized I didn’t have a true journalist’s instinct.

After that, I was busy being married and having children, but when my youngest was about a year and half old, I was standing in the shower when a scene popped into my head. Why does that always happen when you’re in the shower and you can’t get a pen and paper? Anyway, I got the soap out of my eyes, dried off and headed straight for the computer where I wrote it all down.

And boy, did it stink. Whew!

I’d been reading romance novels for years so I figured I should be able to write one, right?

Are you done laughing? Let me know when you’re finished.

Ok, then. It took about twenty false starts and a work I now call The-Regency-That-Wouldn’t-Die before I finally got disgusted with myself and started writing this funny little scene in a Louisiana cemetery. That little scene became Not Quite Dead and it’s the first manuscript I ever finished. After much angst and rewriting on my part, I eventually sold it to Samhain Publishing, who released it in August 2006.

Since then, I’ve placed several other stories, but that first one will always be special to me.

I’m a member of Romance Writers Of America and can usually be found at the bar during national conferences.

Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not bad, but felt slow (even for a book with only about 80 pages).

There were some new creatures that we have not seen before, such as the rusalka and the kelpie. That was pretty cool.

I'm just not really a fan of the singer storyline and stalker storyline. The main plot took place really in just a day or two. That's not a bad thing, but it was not quite eventful or exciting enough. I somewhat would have liked Trick to find out about the stalker earlier on in the book, instead of about midway.

Anyway, not my cup of tea so I'm giving it 2 stars. I still appreciate the writing and the new, interesting concepts and characters. I also like how the author has woven in the friendships between the "new" characters and the original Painter's characters. It felt nice and authentic. In addition, I like the way the book concludes.

Things that you might want to know (WARNING: SPOILERS below)
Happy/satisfying ending? Yes, cute.
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? No, no, low
Tears-worthy? Some sad things, but not particularly tears-worthy.
Humor? Cute bantering, but not really actual humor.
Favorite scene? The ending.
What age level would be appropriate? On one hand, Nocturne Falls books are generally pretty innocent with very vague reference to sex. So nothing actually appropriate. More cute and fun books, if anything. This one does seem more serious and a bit darker. The stalker is creepy and gross. There were attempted kidnap scenes and the word, "prostitute" was used (there wasn't an actual prostitute, but the stalker is such a possessive creep that he'd call the protagonist that.

Also, there is mention of war and PTSD.

[Deniz · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Good news for fan of Nocturne Falls - there are more Authors joining the fun!

I have never read anything by Carsen, so I was very excited to discover a new PNR author!
The thing that amazed me most about this was that this felt so much like the other NF stories and books. Carsen extended the NF Universe seamlessly. It's so well done, that would I have not known it was written her, I would have just assumed it was written by Painter.
The world building is just as imaginative and clever, just like Painter she takes bits of mythology and makes it her own. I loved the Kelpie!!
The character building is done just a flawless. It was interesting to get to know the two MCs and revisit some old characters, whom I love. And can I say again how well Carsen fits things in with Painter? Because her Nick and Willa are exactly as I remember them, it was literally revisiting old friends. Brilliantly done.
My only little issue however, was the romance. It was a lot too insta for me. Though the chemistry between Trick and Daria is smoldering however and I did enjoy that.

Extremely well written and the beautiful music scenes make this a fabulous addition to Nocturne falls.

[Sally906 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fabulous story set in Nocturne Falls - Trick is an ex-soldier now famous country singer who comes to Nocturne Falls to visit one of his army buddies. What he didn’t expect was to meet Daria, a beautiful mermaid, and find out his buddy is a gargoyle. Adventure and danger ensues until the couple can get their happy ever after.

[Denise Snider · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very cute short story that centers in Nocturne Falls, Georgia. If you have never read any of the Nocturne Falls books by Kristen Painter, I definitely recommend them. A country singer comes to visit a friend who resides in Nocturne Falls and has an encounter with a person of fae decent. There is some romance and suspense all mixed into this 63 page book. Great read.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great story! I read it in one sitting. I loved it!
I've only read the first Nocturne Falls book so far and I am so obsessed. I love that there is a Universe now.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written and interesting. And imaginative. I like how this series showcases other writers.

[Gwessie Tee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this very much and want to see more, adored this story drama beauty danger and giggles thank you xxxx

[Eden · Rating 4 out of 5]

2019 bk 352. I learned of more Russian and eastern European mythical characters in this book - a Rusalka (don't call me a mermaid), former member of a Russian Folk singing group and a country music singer (descendent of King Arthur's bard) meet and work together to defeat a stalker, and fall in love along the way. I really enjoyed the cast of characters created by Sela Carsen. They fit into the NFUniverse like a glove on a hand.

[Myriam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story follows Daria and Trick, and I have no idea how to say more without giving spoilers.The story is amazing. It is short, but somehow Sela Carsen managed to write is in such a way that it does not seem short at all. The characters are nicely developed, the background and history explained and it is beautifully written.
This story captures the essence and atmosphere of the Nocturne Falls, its existing places and characters and incorporates the new characters perfectly. We see Nick and Willa in this story and a beautiful magical horse, I would definitely like to see again. Again I hope this is not one time deal for this author, and I hope she continues with Nocturne Falls Universe, maybe longer next time.
The Nocturne Falls reading order is: The Vampire's Mail Order Bride (Nocturne Falls #1), The Werewolf Meets His Match (Nocturne Falls #2), The Gargoyle Gets His Girl (Nocturne Falls, #3), The Professor Woos The Witch (Nocturne Falls, #4), and The Witch’s Halloween Hero (Nocturne Falls #4.5) in Spell of the Ball Anthology, The Werewolf's Christmas Wish (Nocturne Falls #4.6) in Hex the Halls Anthology, The Vampire’s Fake Fiancée (Nocturne Falls #5), A Vampire's Valentine Surprise (Nocturne Falls #5.5), Miss Frost Solves A Cold Case : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #1), The Shifter Romances The Writer (Nocturne Falls #6), Miss Frost Ices The Imp : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #2), The Vampire’s True Love Trials (Nocturne Falls #6.5) in Taming the Vampire collection, Miss Frost Saves The Sandman : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #3), The Truth About Cats And Wolves: A Nocturne Falls Universe story by Alethea Kontis, Magic's Song: A Nocturne Falls universe Story by Sela Carsen, The Witch Rescues Her Werewolf: A Nocturne Falls Universe story by Cate Dean, The Vampire Bounty Hunter's Unexpected Catch: A Nocturne Falls Universe story by Larissa Emerald, Reaping The Immortal: A Nocturne Falls Universe story by Pamela Labud and Close Encounters Of The Alien Kind: A Nocturne Falls Universe story by Fiona Roarke. The Dragon Finds Forever (Nocturne Falls #7) is coming this year as well.

[Margaret · Rating 3 out of 5]

Magic's Song is the shortest of the Nocturne Falls Universe books, at about 60 pages. That might be why I felt like the romance was a bit too predictable. There just wasn't enough time to let it develop. It's also kind of dark for such a short story, with both characters dealing with PTSD.

What I loved about this story though is the way Carsen describes the magic in the music. Both Trick and Daria are talented singers but when they sing together, it becomes something special. I also liked the fact it incorporates the stream, which gets mentioned a lot in the Nocturne Falls series as the source of their charmed water, and water creatures like the kelpie and the rusalka.

Carsen did a good job tying her new characters to those that were already established, so we see Nick, Willa, Hank and Birdie here. Nocturne Falls already had a famous author, so I'm wondering if the fact that they now have a famous singer in town will come up. I just love how this world continues to grow.

Review also published at Goldilox and the Three Weres and based on a copy provided by the author

[Melanie's · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first in a series of stories being released in the "Nocturne Falls Universe" and if this is a taste of things to come then it will be as sweet as a trip to Delaney's store. The idea of letting other authors come and play in another author's world isn't new to me, so I was excited to see what people would do and I was pleased to see that Sela brought something completely original to the table, while keeping the whole Nocturne Falls feel very much alive.

I have a soft spot for stories involving the more unusual mythical creatures and this certainly embraces that! We actually manage to learn a lot about these new creatures in this little novella, a concept I personally would have liked to have had expanded a little more. And that is the reason it only gets 4 stars from me, but with a strong recommendation that fans of Kristen Painter's Nocturne Falls series should pick this up!

V""V

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the interests of full disclosure, I haven't read any books in the Nocturne Falls series, so I didn't have any preconceived ideas about what to expect. What I got was unexpected.

This is novella length, but in some ways feels like a longer book, due to the manner in which the scene setting is done. No doubt it helps that the author is simply introducing the reader to a fully formed world with pre-existing relationships, but I never got the impression from this story that the author was fitting in to that world. Rather, it felt that these characters had developed organically as part of that world.

What I would say is that, accepting this book for the pure escapist fantasy that it is, it's a fun little book. Just enough tension to keep the reader gripped; just enough spark to make the relationship between Trick and Daria feel real. Well, real within the confines of the tale, of course!

I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

[Stephenee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a spin off of the Nocturne Falls series by author Kristen Painter, and while it is a good story, there are parts that the reader can't help but compare to Painter's original series...This is a new to me author and one in which I will read again, but I am not sure that this novella really captured the essence of Nocturne Falls for me.

I felt like something was missing while I was reading this story...it just didn't have that amazing flow and instant hook that the others have. I enjoyed the story and I liked reading about Daria (a mermaid) and Trick, however, I wanted more details and flow. The premise behind the story is a good one and I can totally picture a mermaid among the residents of Nocturne Falls...

You can read this as a stand-alone and be able to jump right into this magical world, however, you will not want to miss out, so be prepared to one-click all of the books regarding this amazing place!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was hesitant to read any of these Nocturne Falls Universe books because I couldn't even imagine anyone writing anything in Kristen's world but her. But boy was I wrong! This author put it together so seamlessly with this world. Even when she had characters we already knew, it felt like it was still them. I could still feel their personality. I was afraid it would seem like someone else. I hope that makes sense. But this was amazing! I will be reading more of this author. I loved the kelpie. Only thing that ticked me off was how Daria left the house at the end. I can't say much without spoiling it but she must not have been too scared. It was really stupid. But it brought about a wonderful ending. I don't like country music or books about singers but the way this one was written was superb. There was such a good story. Even if the love was a little fast. I could feel the magic.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy and I voluntarily reviewed.

Magic's Song is written by Sela Carsen, in the Nocturne Falls Universe.

Trick Scanlon is taking a break from his high profile career when he nears a small town in Georgia, Nocturne Falls. He stops to rest, and encounters a playful horse (who tries to kill him) and a beautiful woman he is convinced has a fishes tail.

When Trick runs into the beautiful woman on dry land, and discovers she has two gorgeous legs, he is really confused.

Then things get really interesting.

Sela Carsen did a wonderful job with the Nocturne Falls Universe, fitting her characters and story into the existing Universe. If you haven't read Kristen Painter's Nocturne Falls books, either the Romance series, or the Jayne Frost Mystery series, this is a good introduction.

[Maddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dariah Black is a Rusalka has stayed out of the spotlight since an incident happen one evening back in Texas. Trick Scanlon a country singer has come to Nocturne Falls in need of a break from his tour and fans. Upon arriving, a horse tried to drown him, meets a beautiful women and finds out he has ability's too. But when Dariah is pulled back into the spotlight, her fears and nightmare may become a reality. Trick has only know her for a couple days and will do anything in his power to protect her. Will history repeat itself or will her country ranger save her?

A lovely addition added to Kristen's world. A short story, felt like a novel size and had all the essence Kristen brings to her own novels. Dariah and Trick are the new Johnny and June Cash and hoping Carson will write more in the new future. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[FrugalBookNerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say that I was a bit skeptical about this one, but was pleasantly surprised! Ms. Carsen is a new-to-me author and I have not read any other books in the Nocturne Falls Universe so I honestly wasn't sure what to expect. I'm no stranger to paranormal romance, though I've mostly read about vampires, werewolves and were-bears. With Magic's Song being about a mermaid type creature I wasn't holding my breath that this would be my cup of tea, but I was wrong! This is definitely fantasy but it wasn't hokey. After I got past the fact that at the beginning of the story the hero Trick's hands get stuck in the mane of a magic horse, the rest of this magic universe weaved almost seamlessly into our human world. Magic's Song was a light, easy, entertaining read and I would definitely read more by this author!
*Received an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair review.

[Sue Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW WOW WOW I loved all the books that were in the Nocturne Falls series by Kristen Painter. And now, I am loving these that are guest authored by others.

When Trick Scanlon makes his way to Nocturne Falls to reunite with his old Army buddy, he had no idea what was really in store for him. First he comes upon a beautiful horse - but was it really a real horse??? Then he meets a beautiful mermaid - but was she really a mermaid??? I don't write spoilers - so, I won't answer those questions. BUT -- I will warn you that once you start reading Magic's Song, you will find it hard to stop reading until you reach the ending and find out the secrets of Nocturne Falls that are exposed in this book.

I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.

[Pilar Seacord · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trick Scanlong parked his motorcycle next to a big creek. He sees what he thinks is a big black horse but it is a mythical creature called a Kelpie. He somehow touches its neck and and gets stuck. The creature drags him under the water. He thought he was going to drown. Trick hears singing and the creature stops. Daria helps him stay afloat. When he gets out he asks her is she not cold to come out. No she stays in the water the he sees her tail. You are a mermaid. Daria does not understand how he sees it. I am not a mermaid but a Russian Rusalka. Trick finds out he has some magic from a resident of Nocturne Falls. Romance, singing, lore and kidnapping. Great couple. Ms. Carsen's work is fun!!!

[David Vise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magic's Song is my first experience of the 'Nocturne Falls Universe' series with stories written by guest authors - in this case Sela Carsen - making this the first Nocturne Falls story I've read written by someone other than Kristen Painter.
...And I'm pleased to report that this novella is in a similar style and high standard to those written by Kristen.
A bard and 'mermaid' as central characters is an original choice and works well. Cameos by familiar Nocturne Falls characters gives a sense of familiarity and continuity.
My only gripe is at 5 chapters its simply not long enough to do the characters and storyline serous justice.

[Gecky Boz · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5 gnomes

I love the Nocturne Falls books so I knew I wanted to read this story set in the same universe. It's only 63 pages long but a lot happens, its so very short but sweet. I love a good mermaid-esque story so this was a lot of fun. My favorite character was Bubba another mythological being that surprised me.

Daria and Trick are quite the couple and I love the magic they make together. Like I said it's short but the story still pulls you right in. Their backgrounds are intriguing and make for some great mythology.

All the other characters are well done too and it all feels true to the Nocturne Falls Universe.

[Dana Whyte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Nocturne Falls! This novella is part of a Nocturne Falls Universe where certain authors write a story with Kristen Painter's beloved characters. This story is a great extension of the Nocturne stories. I almost didn't realize this wasn't Kristen Painter at the helm. Daria is a Rusalka, a Russian water fae. She is swimming a long and rescues Trick Scalon from a kelpie, he sees her tail. Which is weird since he should've not been able to see pass the magic block. I can't tell anymore without giving away everything! I loved this story and wish it was a full story!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first review disappeared. Not sure what happened...

This is a great book set in the favored Nocturne Falls Universe. This is a musical book - something I never thought of! I wish I could hear Daria and Tricks songs together and apart.

This is a great love story filled with new supernaturals (ones we haven't discovered yet!) Of course new/different characters visiting the wonderfully created Nocturne Falls BY Kristen Painter. There is some sorted drama and did I mention a Hell Beast?! I Highly recommend this fun book.

[Eric Aeschliman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Music, Mayhem, NOT Mermaids, and MORE Nocturne Falls!

What's not to love! Kristrn Painter and Sela Carsen should both be proud! Kristen chose a talented author to expand the world of Nocturne Falls, and Sela did a brilliant job of seamlessly expanding our knowledge of the citizens (and denizens!) of our favorite, "Trick AND Treat Town!" I don't think there are enough exclamation marks in the world to expess how enthusiastic I am about this book! Fans of the series, be assured you will love Sela's additions to our beloved burg as if they leapt from Kristen's own genius!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lovely read that followed the stylings of a Nocturne Falls story. It flowed very easily and held me captive the entire time! I had a hard time putting it down!

The only thing that bugged me a little was that it had an opening monologue for the kelpie but no closure. I would've loved to read something there at the end. Still, it doesn't detract from the overall story and it was a satisfying 5 star read!

[Myst]

Enjoyed this immensely. Definitely up there w a few other nocturne falls stories I've enjoyed. It was interesting to see a Kelpie be good as their lore is dark dealing with drowning at least it wasn't a Each uisge (which lore states that one eats flesh). I would like to point out the only reason I even know the 2 names is from The Grey Court series by Dana Marie Bell & Guardians of the realms by Setta Jay…

[Kelley Kingman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trick has come to Nocturne Falls to see an old friend when he stops beside a lake to rest when he sees a horse roaming alone. When he tries to capture it, he is the one captured. He has no idea what to do when the horse [Kelpie] takes him for a swim. When he is drowning he thinks he sees a mermaid with the most beautiful voice. A story you will read in one sitting.

[Suzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, I wasn't sure how I'd take another author writing in the Nocturne Falls universe but I think Sela Carson stayed pretty true to the feel of the universe and I loved her characters! I believe I'm going to enjoy these short stories with other authors!

[Lyn Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almost Original

Sela Carsen certainly married this one into Nocturne Falls seemlessly. Magic's Song brings everything we have come to expect from NF stories. Love , pain, humor, intrigue!, goodies, baddies and werewolves.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read and wonderful magic!