Fulfill three quests, return the missing shards of an evil sword, or people die. Nothing a wounded Russian sorcerer and an artist with a talent for roping can’t handle.
Rodion Czernovitch is in Nocturne Falls recovering from a serious injury and working hard not to fall for his sister’s best friend. When evil comes knocking on his door and she accidentally gets in the way, it’s time to quit brooding and start preparing for battle.
Carina Valdis just wanted a cup of coffee. But when she ran into her bestie’s brother - her big crush - and subsequently into an evil wizard’s curse, it’s going to take all her skill and patience to teach the overbearing warrior that love and wit (and a couple of rope tricks) can conquer all. Even the threat of death.
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.
The plot on this one seemed a little thin and rushed. It reminded me of a YA novel in both style and pacing. I would have liked a slightly longer story with more action and twists as for me the curse and the big bad guy seemed too easily overcome.
That said this novel still has a lot going for it - Carina Valdis is a wonderful character, intriguing, likeable and well written. She has to be one of my favourite female leads in this series so far. It was nice to see a strong fantasy element in this story - I'm always a sucker for anything from that genre. And it was nice to revisit characters from Sela Carsen's previous Nocturne Falls Universe story Magic's Song in this book.
2019 bk 353. And Sela Carson continues with her cast of characters. This book focuses on the brother of Magic's Song's rusalka. Injured in his duties as a border patrol agent (border between the human and fae world's), Rodion accidentaly puts his neighbor in danger when the evil father of a border jumper wants to exact revenge - and get the sword pieces back that are imbedded in Rodion's body. Adventure and love ensue as Carina cannot be far from Rodion without the poison in her body spreading, so the couple must work together to harness the evil wizard.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, the second of Sela Carson's stories set in Nocturne Falls. Rodion is a Russian sorcerer, the brother of Daria from Magic's Song. Carson has pulled several previously mentioned characters into this story as well as Daria and Trick. Carina is Daria's best friend and unfortunately triggers a curse meant for Rodion. She is a delightful character, constantly cracking jokes while dealing with the terrible mess she has stepped in to. I appreciate the introduction of Russian folklore into the Nocturne Falls Universe. Carson does an excellent job of blending her inventions into Kristen Painter's universe.
Actually 3,5 stars. The first book in Nocturne Falls by this author Magic's Song was beautiful. I had very high expectations for this one, but unfortunately they were not fulfilled. The qualities I fell in love with in the first book were not present here completely. Or maybe I would like this book much better if I didn't have the pleasure of reading the first one. This is the book about Carina, a soothsayer, and Rodion, a sorcerer and a brother of Daria who we met in the first book. Their attraction is great and Carina is a very lovable character, but Rodion not so much. I can't really describe what I was missing in this book, but the story seemed a bit rushed and at times unclear and difficult to follow. I was also not happy about the authors presentation of Cole, Kristen Painter's character, who did not seem as strong and fabulous as he was originally meant to be. I did, however, love her little twist which included Van, the dragon. 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 Dragon Finds Forever (Nocturne Falls #7), The Vampire's Accidental Wife (Nocturne Falls #8), and ever growing series of Nocturne Universe Novels, which surpassed fifteen by now. Great world to get yourself immersed in.
I really liked the characters in this book. But at times the story was hard to follow and would seem kind of rushed in places. Carina has known Rodion a long time because she is his sister's best friend. But I got the impression that they hadn't spent much time together ever. He was so quiet and angry and always wanted to stay away from people. They do, however, now live in the same apartment building. After an encounter at the coffee shop, they walk home together. There, she is attacked by a golem. Here she is seeing a terrifying creature and also being cursed and almost dying. Right after, they are up against the wall kissing like mad. All of a sudden, Rodion isn't so quiet and they are all touchy lovey dovey. I don't know, it just seems like it was a little rushed and the wrong timing. But it may just be me. I read it at 3 am. I was glad to see another Russian character. But I wish there would've been a list of what the Russian terms meant. And while Carina was a norn, I didn't know what that was. I wound up having to google a lot of stuff. I guess I've lived a sheltered life lol. I don't mean to sound so negative. This book is worth the read. It had enough good qualities to out weigh the negatives. I love that we had the Fae world. And that Rodion was a boarder patrol officer. Or magistrate. How could I forget that? My hubby is a magistrate.
A magical Russian death curse is at the center of this slightly darker than usual Nocturne Falls Universe novella from the kindle world by Kristen Painter. Rodian and Carina fight evil in several battles and with the help of family and friends.
Loved the magic purse. I need one just like it.
To get the background on many of the characters in this book, refer to Magic's Song, the first book by this author in the Nocturne Falls Universe.
I enjoyed this book. I liked getting to catch up with characters introduced in this author's previous Nocturne Falls Universe, this story is just as enjoyable. I look forward - hopefully - to reading more.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
When we meet Daria's brother Rodion and her best friend Carina, we find ourselves on an unexpected ride. Rodion is one of the agents that monitor the border between the human world and the magical worlds beyond. Carina a norn (yesssssssssss finally we have a norn in NF!) is an innocent bystander who is cursed when a golum misses Rodion.
I loved this book and really enjoyed getting to see both Daria and Trick grow in both relationship and their abilities. Sela is an extremely talented author and helps you feel connected to the story and the characters and her timing is spot on. I also love the kelpie Bubba as his personality just makes you laugh everytime you see him.
Magic's Fate has wonderful world building. I liked Sela Carsen's previous NFU novella Magic's Song a whole lot as well. Again, the world building is interesting and inspired. In fact it reminded me a bit of Ilona Andrews Kate Daniel Series, which is a very good thing if you ask me. The storyline was captivating, action packed and intriguing. My only little issue the romance was too insta. I mean they went from 0 to 100 in a second. I kept thinking woah, slow down, this just all happened, like a minute ago. Add to that, that some of the dialogues felt a bit too cliche and it is "only" a good read for me rather than a fantastic one. Still I really love the world building and I loved revisiting the previous charachters as well.
Series: Nocturne Falls Universe Rating: 2 stars - It was ok
Carina Valdis was accidentally cursed while trying to help her hot neighbor, Rodion Czernovitch. Now they have to work together to fulfill three quests to stop the curse from killing her.
This book was ok. Rodion and Carina have been hot on each other for a while but they haven’t made a move because Carina is Daria, Rodion’s sister, best friend. But being cursed makes them realize how much they feel for each other and take the chance on each other. I didn’t mind their instant love relationship, it was other issues that kind of ruined this book for me.
I think my problem with this book is that the story wasn’t very clear. What Rodion is wasn’t explained very well. He is some kind of sorcerer but his sister is a rusalka (water fae) and I don’t understand the dynamics behind it, which really bothers me. Basically I struggled to understand this new world and how it impacted these two characters and Nocturne Falls.
I did like Carina. She was a norn which is a type of fortune teller/ soothsayer, which I found fascinating and wish we had seen more of her abilities. Her magical bag was very interesting and I want one because I never have enough room in my purse (think Mary Poppins carpet bag or Hermione’s magical handbag).
Overall, this was just ok. It definitely needed to be longer just to explain more about the characters and the worlds they come from.
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads. _____________________________ Popsugar 2021 - The shortest book (by pages) on your TBR list
This is a great book; this book is part of the Nocturne Falls Universe and is written by Sela Carsen. The Nocturne Falls series is written by Kristen Painter and I was so happy that these new books by new authors were asked to write a story in the town. Nocturne Falls is a town that celebrates Halloween every day of the year and also a place that paranormal’s can live and not have to hide what they really are. Rodion Czernovitch is in Nocturne Falls recovering from a serious injury and working hard not to fall for his sister’s best friend. When evil comes knocking on his door and she accidentally gets in the way, it’s time to quit brooding and start preparing for battle. Carina Valdis just wanted a cup of coffee. But when she ran into her bestie’s brother - her big crush - and subsequently into an evil wizard’s curse, it’s going to take all her skill and patience to teach the overbearing warrior that love and wit (and a couple of rope tricks) can conquer all. Even the threat of death.This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author.
This is one of the short stories that follow along with the Nocturne Falls books by author Kristen Painter, and while this isn't written by her, it is written in conjunction with her series. This is a great short story to tide you over until the next full length story is written.
This story focuses on an ancient curse, some remnants of an evil sword and magic. The main characters are friends by default (family) and they each feel some attraction towards the other, however, they have never acted on this attraction before....then the one day that they actually hang out...BOOM...evil attacks.
The premise of the story is a bit weak and could use some additional supporting details, however, the idea is fun and the reader enjoys the magic aspect of the story. What they don't love is the from barely friends to LOVE in an instant....The author needed a better lead up to this and perhaps a bit more details pertaining to how they are suddenly going to get married and live happily ever after.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the story and I recommend anyone that enjoys Nocturne Falls also read it, but I just wanted more.
I absolutely love Nocturne Falls! This novella is part of a Nocturne Falls Universe where certain authors write a story with some of Kristen Painter's beloved characters. This is sorta a continuation of the Magic's Song which featured Daria and Trick, this book features Rodian (Daria's brother) and Carina ( Daria's BFF). Rodian is a sorcerer who has been injured and extremely grumpy about it. Evil comes to Rodian's door and Carina gets hit with a death curse, they must complete 3 quests or she is going to die. I really enjoyed the characters and the story. I hope Sela writes more for the Nocturne Falls Universe with these characters. I also would love to own a bag like Carina.. the amount of stuff I could carry!!!
Magic's Fate is Sela Carsen's second entry in Kristen Painter's Nocturne Falls Universe.
This time around we meet Daria's brother and her best friend. Carina is in the wrong place at the wrong time, and gets cursed. Rodion and Carina were already eyeing each other from afar, afraid to upset Daria. But being in close proximity for the lifting of the curse works in their favor.
I enjoyed Ms. Carsen's first NFU entry, and I enjoyed this one too. She found a way to incorporate her own story with the established world and characters of Nocturne Falls, and does it well.
The story was easy, very light. Really appropriate if you wanted something light and fun, something to pass time by without being emotionally involved. The characters were likable and enjoyable. Rodion was a bit obnoxious for my taste, but still likeable.
Overall, I felt the story a bit rushed. The problems were solved easily. It just a bit too one dimensional. However, I read this book when I needed exactly this kind of book. Nothing that really tug at my heart-string, but enjoyable and keep me from boring time.
I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
Rodion is in Nocturne Falls to recover after a nasty wound protecting the fae border, he's been keeping to him self for the most part however has always found his sisters best friend pretty. After spilling his coffee on himself Carina walks him home and accidentally gets dragged into the mechanisations of the dark fae ruler in the way of a nasty, potentially fatal, curse.
Rodion and Carina have denied their attraction since Rodion came to town to heal. Their story revolves around a serious of tasks that must be completed. Two people from very different backgrounds that must work together. Their story had me on the edge of my seat wondering what the next trial would bring.
Not even 1 star so she has a Harry Potter style Hermione’s magical handbag and while being in danger they talk about Rodeo and what ever nonsense. Sorry but this book is not even 1 star. It insults my IQ. They find all the clues just like that.. No thanks. This is a nothing burger. Would have been more interesting if that evil dude just told him: get this there and pick up that over there and bring it to me. Would have saved the Author the embarrassment of not being able to make something good up.
A book with this kind of topic can only be good if it is not a short Story and there is enough space to really make it interesting. Falls flat with this hush rush.
This book has a slightly harder edge to it than most of the falls books. It still involves around two young loves that find each other but a horrible curse is involved. One of unbelievable pain. My favorite character was actually a side character one with a taste for fancy apples and a falls character that doesn't get a lot of play makes an appearance and helps out which was fun. Still a good book just keep in mind when you pick this up it isn't a light fun book it is just a heavier fun book. That way it won't catch you off guard and you can enjoy it for what it is. :)
I loved this addition to the Nocturne Falls Universe!
The story was well written and went along so smoothly. It was easy to read and follow along with the characters.
Carina is my favorite character from this author so far. I love her spunk and humor! She's a strong female who cares for others even though she is in real pain of her own. Plus I love her bag! I really need a bag like that!
And thank you for giving the Kelpie a herd! I felt like he needed more of a spotlight in the last book, and was not disappointed in this one! I look forward to Magic's Promise!!
This is a story about Carina, a soothsayer, and Rodion, a Norn. They have known each other for years, as Carina is Rodion's sister's best friend. After walking home from the coffee shop together, Carina gets attacked and a curse is put on her. It's now up to Rodion to find a way to cure the curse. This story has plenty of action with a bit of romance mixed in. The story did seem rushed and unfinished at times, but overall was enjoyable.
If you read Magic's Song, the first by Sela Carsen in the Nocturne Falls Universe, then you will be pleased to see Trick and Daria make appearances in Magic's Fate. Magic's Fate is the story of Carina, Daria's best friend, and Rodion, a Russian sorcerer. I have to say that I really enjoy the Russian cultural nuances in her stories. This story had a little bit of a dark tone in it due to the nature of Rodion's quest. The read was very enjoyable. I couldn't put the book down. :)
This addition to the Nocturne Falls Universe was spellbinding, pun intended (giggling). An injured warrior, a rodeo winning soothsayer and their friends unite to battle evil, and hopefully win. Shifters, sorcerers and all sorts of magical beings fight an evil that wants to kill all. With the prerequisite Happy Ever After, you're sure to enjoy this installment as much as I did.
This is a fun short story set in the Nocturne Falls Universe that was created by Kristin Painter. It is very in keeping with the series' cozy paranormal romances. Well written and I believe that it would be enjoyable for fans of Ms Painters stories set in Nocturne Falls. Sela Carsen has penned a great short story.
This story is about a woman who has a big heart and a man who needs every bit of it. Carina and Rodion have known each other a long time, but see each other anew amid a curse, an evil face wizard and lots of mystical creatures. Love these stories.
Enjoyed this and loved that again, this is a writer who has previously visited the Nocturne Falls universe! The lead characters were the best friend (Carina) and brother (Rodion). The story was great and I love that the previous characters where in this story helping out!
Quests, romance, adventure, and humor. "In a haze of agony, he felt his arm burn as if someone was stabbing him with a red-hot poker. He looked at his arm. Someone was stabbing him with a red-hot poker." So funny. I love the characters.
Kristen Painter realized that so man people loved the town of Nocturne Falls that she created a great place where lots of different authors could write short romantic stories about people in Nocturne Falls called A Nocturne Falls Universe. This is one of those books that I was happy to read.
I really liked the beginning but the way the author wrapped things up was too forced and unrealistic. The flirting and romance was sweet and the characters likable. A couple of errors in text too.