The Fox Bard

Jobe & Paracleus #1

by Courtney Bowen

Dive into a captivating world where magic and mystery collide in "The Fox Bard," the enchanting first installment of the Jobe & Paracleus series. Jobe dreams of following in his father Jaquan's footsteps as a bard, but his world shatters when Jaquan abandons him. Now, living with his mother Jona and working as a seaside amusement park clown, Jobe's life takes an unexpected turn.When the park's singer resigns, Jobe seizes the chance to audition. However, his dreams are thwarted when the infamous bard Paracleus, a secretive kitsune Vulpine, is hired instead. Fueled by both anger and a budding attraction, Jobe finds himself drawn into a mesmerizing world of magic and intrigue.As Jobe and Paracleus navigate a perilous path, they must confront their deepest fears. Paracleus, hiding his true identity, faces the risk of exposure and capture, while Jobe must come to terms with his newfound feelings. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, love, and adventure."The Fox Bard" is an enthralling LGBT fantasy adventure filled with spellbinding mysteries and heartwarming romance. Join Jobe and Paracleus as they unravel secrets, battle darkness, and embrace the power of love. Perfect for fans of fantasy, action, humor and mystery, this M/M saga will captivate readers from every walk of life.

152 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 13, 2017

Reviews

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good little story. Some good points to it. Personally, just me, I think it needs maybe a bit more, but overall it’s good. There’s secrets, betrayals, threats, murder, and all kinds of underhandedness that goes on in this book as two young men try to find their way in life. And one, with a big secret of his own. He’s a kitsune.
When Jobe found out Paracleus was taking the job he wanted to apply for at the carnival, he wasn’t happy at all. And during this, there’s dissention in the ranks. Many are tired of the boss and his crap, but Jobe avoids it, thinking it will cause him more problems. When he apologizes to Paracleus for his attitude, they start a tentative friendship. It’s snarky and such at first, but grows in to more of one as they get to know each other. Especially when Paracleus reveals what he really is. But now there’s some big trouble in the carnival none were really expecting and it’s going to take all they all have to get through it and possibly survive.
Like I said, it’s a good little story. These two boys are doing their best in this world to survive. But it’s hard when the boss is an ass. Although he likes to paint himself in a prettier picture. And when the threat is found out, the bonds between these two grow stronger. I like these two. I feel like they are my kids and I want to protect them. But sometimes we have to let our babies suffer through what they have to on their own. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want to reach through this book and beat someone lol. But these two have to learn to fend for themselves in this grown up world. Yes, it’s good to have help, but they also need to know they can depend on themselves and each other to get through and survive. As hard as that may be.
See what you think. I love little kitsunes. They’re so stinking cute. I have chibis of them in my phone. Maybe it’s time for a photo change lol.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/

[Nessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I mean it was fine. The writing was good, with some action, and the edits made to expand the story has definitely upped the story. But that’s just it. It was just okay, nothing memorable and I wouldn’t add it to my “must continue” list. I think the main characters just didn’t do it for me.

Overall, it’s a short little story, so if you’re looking for a decent read that saves on time, this is your book.


*Reader Note: I received a free copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews (GRR), and this is my honest review.

[Debby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jobe’s dream is to be come a bard, a dream shattered by his father when he deserted him and his mother. Now he works as a clown at a seaside amusement park. When a singer unexpectedly quits, Jobe thinks this is his chance but the position is filled by Paracleus, an infamous bard. At first Jobe is a bit rude to Paracleus but soon warms up to him. Paracleus, for his part, has a secret. He is a vulpine kitsune and must stay in hiding. Jobe must accept that he has feeling for Paracleus, even if he did steal his position.

This is an exciting story and #1 in the series called Job & Paracleus. It should be intriguing to see where this series goes. In this book they face some interesting monsters that I know I have never seen before. There is magic and mystery as well as betrayal and surprises. The ending left me wondering if the bad guy might not be completely gone. The story is also enhanced by the variety of side characters, but the romance needs more. I am hoping in the next book. I will definitely be looking for it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is my own personal opinion.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

So this was better than I was expecting! There was quite a bit of action and I thought some good twists. For some reason though, I didn't fully follow the romance. I can't put my finger on why it wasn't completely believable for me so may be a me thing not the book! I think I'll be checking out book 2 too see if I can fall for these characters a little more completely.

[Deb Kel · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first book by Courtney and whilst the storyline was well written and had plenty of action with a few twists and turns I wasn't able to fully bond with the characters and really don't know why, so might just be a "me thing"! I'm hoping the next book gives us more from them as it was very promising.
I received a free arc copy from GRR and this is my honest review

[Ida Umphers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the world building and the plot of this one. It has some good suspense and twists and turns. The magical aspects and Paracleus' past and shape shifting abilities are interesting and promise that there is more we still have to learn there. I look forward to finding out more about Jobe and Paracleus and watching their relationship develop.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful tale about him as he deals with his father who has abandoned him. His life is going to change so much in unexpected ways. His journey may just bring him closer to all his dreams. Follow how it will all go as he learns a new way to life

[Thurman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good story. There was just something missing in the relationship. I'm not sure I'll continue with the series though.
I got the ARC from GRR for my honest review.

[Nijin · Rating 1 out of 5]

Didn't like the writing stile. Felt awkward.