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Dragon's Gift: The Valkyrie #1
Undercover Magic
I've got two choices. Join the Undercover Protectorate. Or die.
In a world of controlled magic, I’m an Unknown. Deadly power, little control. I’m only alive because I pay a Blood Sorcerer to keep me hidden. But when he comes to collect on the debt I can’t pay, one of his goons slams me with a deadly curse. Suddenly, I’m out of options and out of time.
When I’m given a rare chance to join the elite Undercover Protectorate and train at their academy to become an investigator, I have a way to hunt the cure for the curse. They have resources I don’t. Easy, since I’m broke.
Seems like a good plan, right? At least, until they tell me Cade will be joining me on my hunt for the Blood Sorcerer. He's an actual Celtic war god--and the hottest guy I’ve ever seen. The catch? I can’t let him know that I’m an Unknown, or I’m out on my ass and deader than Hades.
Undercover Magic is a fast-paced urban fantasy with a kick-butt heroine, a tough hero, and magic that will knock your socks off.
In a world of controlled magic, I’m an Unknown. Deadly power, little control. I’m only alive because I pay a Blood Sorcerer to keep me hidden. But when he comes to collect on the debt I can’t pay, one of his goons slams me with a deadly curse. Suddenly, I’m out of options and out of time.
When I’m given a rare chance to join the elite Undercover Protectorate and train at their academy to become an investigator, I have a way to hunt the cure for the curse. They have resources I don’t. Easy, since I’m broke.
Seems like a good plan, right? At least, until they tell me Cade will be joining me on my hunt for the Blood Sorcerer. He's an actual Celtic war god--and the hottest guy I’ve ever seen. The catch? I can’t let him know that I’m an Unknown, or I’m out on my ass and deader than Hades.
Undercover Magic is a fast-paced urban fantasy with a kick-butt heroine, a tough hero, and magic that will knock your socks off.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
2751 people are currently reading
2033 people want to read
About the author
Linsey Hall
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Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
For giveaways, contests and book discussion join my Facebook group
here!
Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
December 7, 2017
If like me you've followed the adventures of the FireSouls of Magic Bend then you will be delighted to see Bree and Ana return as large as ever but now with some of their secrets about to be revealed. In the five years that have passed the sisters have carried on their business in Death Valley but they are about to meet a very sticky problem. They have needed to keep a low profile and have utilised any and all options but now they can't pay and there's a big target painted on their backs! Ok then stay alive, get away from the henchmen sent after them oh and maybe find an antidote for a deadly poison! Just another day at the office right ? Well actually no because they end up being taken by a group that are anything but ordinary.
As usual the author transports her readers around the world with castles and canals amongst the places we visit. What's perhaps slightly more incredible here is the inclusion of Celtic mythology and even a God ! I know that Bree and Ana are technically known as Unknowns throughout his first book but observent readers will notice a huge clue although for this reader it was the introduction of Djinn in this story that had me jumping up and down because I'm so hoping the author will return to them . A great start to this spin off series and I'm so onboard to find out what happens next particularly now I know there just might be a third sister out there !
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
As usual the author transports her readers around the world with castles and canals amongst the places we visit. What's perhaps slightly more incredible here is the inclusion of Celtic mythology and even a God ! I know that Bree and Ana are technically known as Unknowns throughout his first book but observent readers will notice a huge clue although for this reader it was the introduction of Djinn in this story that had me jumping up and down because I'm so hoping the author will return to them . A great start to this spin off series and I'm so onboard to find out what happens next particularly now I know there just might be a third sister out there !
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
May 1, 2018
Literally forced myself to finish this book because I am so over DNF-ing books right now.
The premise may be interesting but the characters were not nearly enough to carry the story. They were bland, over powered, and I swear I've read these characters before. I was underwhelmed by the writing as well. It was choppy and the same words were used over and over again.
There's really no reason to use purr 3 times in 2 sentences.
This book was poorly researched. If you are going to go to Venice in a book, learn something about it. It isn't just canals and festivals. There's a lot more to it than that.
Overall, this book did not do a good idea justice. The writing and the characters made this an altogether disappointing experience.
The premise may be interesting but the characters were not nearly enough to carry the story. They were bland, over powered, and I swear I've read these characters before. I was underwhelmed by the writing as well. It was choppy and the same words were used over and over again.
There's really no reason to use purr 3 times in 2 sentences.
This book was poorly researched. If you are going to go to Venice in a book, learn something about it. It isn't just canals and festivals. There's a lot more to it than that.
Overall, this book did not do a good idea justice. The writing and the characters made this an altogether disappointing experience.
February 26, 2018
Great book.
Fast pace story with lot's of action and a kick ass heroine...
Bree is just a great h, strong minded, assertive a true fighter and damn the girl can fight.
My first book by this author but really really Like it.
Will read the next one!
would like to see Anna story!!
Fast pace story with lot's of action and a kick ass heroine...
Bree is just a great h, strong minded, assertive a true fighter and damn the girl can fight.
My first book by this author but really really Like it.
Will read the next one!
would like to see Anna story!!
March 4, 2018
Reads like a young adult (didn't notice that category on Goodreads). Easy, fast moving, enjoyable.
July 17, 2024
1.5/ 5
ermmm
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December 26, 2017
Since Bree and Ana were small, their mother told them they have to hide their powers because they are Unknowns. Now they rely on a Sorcerer to create a talisman to keep them hidden, but when they can't pay said Sorcerer, he sends goons to collect. The goons hit the girls with a deadly curse before they are saved by some strangers. Bree and Ana have a limited amount of time to get the antidote before they die, but thankfully the strangers that saved them are from the elite Undercover Protectorate and the girls are invited to join them. Can they get the antidote in time though?
This is my first book by this author and I have to say that I loved it!! I know these characters have been in another of the authors series, but this is fine to read if you haven't read any of them as I followed along fine!!
Right from the start, you are drawn into the world and action. The two main characters are Bree and Ana, though Bree is featured more prominently. The whole story is action packed and intense, it's filed with adventure and even has a God!! The whole plot was seriously amazing. The authors writing just brought the world alive.
The best thing for me was the characters. I loved both Bree and Ana. Both were incredibly well written and developed and I loved seeing them grow. All the characters from the Protectorate were intriguing and I can't wait to get to know them more. I also loved Cade. I'm dying to know more about the God of War!!
In all, this was such a great read. I really had a hard time putting this down and I need book 2 now!!!
Laurel Schroeder was fantastic. She put emotion behind her characters and they really came alive. She is definitely a narrator I need to listen to more.
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts.
This is my first book by this author and I have to say that I loved it!! I know these characters have been in another of the authors series, but this is fine to read if you haven't read any of them as I followed along fine!!
Right from the start, you are drawn into the world and action. The two main characters are Bree and Ana, though Bree is featured more prominently. The whole story is action packed and intense, it's filed with adventure and even has a God!! The whole plot was seriously amazing. The authors writing just brought the world alive.
The best thing for me was the characters. I loved both Bree and Ana. Both were incredibly well written and developed and I loved seeing them grow. All the characters from the Protectorate were intriguing and I can't wait to get to know them more. I also loved Cade. I'm dying to know more about the God of War!!
In all, this was such a great read. I really had a hard time putting this down and I need book 2 now!!!
Laurel Schroeder was fantastic. She put emotion behind her characters and they really came alive. She is definitely a narrator I need to listen to more.
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts.
December 11, 2017
This was a nice, fun, quick-paced urban fantasy with great characters and world. The last 10% was an excerpt for the next book though.
December 7, 2017
Audiobook review: Undercover Magic is a delightful listen for action fantasy junkies, like myself. From the opening scenes of dodging magic to the fight at the end you are promised action. The world Ms. Hall has built is interesting and unpredictable and the characters mysterious but intriguing. I really enjoyed this story and was saddened to reach the end. The narrator did a nice job. I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 27, 2018
Great story. I like how there are different powers used for characters that aren’t typical like just shifters and mages. Similar writing style as Ella Summers, so I loved it.
June 9, 2020
3.5 stars. I liked the plot, the action and the characters but I was a little disappointed in the relationships. They were emotionless. Sisters Bree and Ana have power and abilities that help them earn a living but now someone is planning to take over their power and lives. They have a choice of joining the Protectorate which will help them get their lives back or go it alone. The action is fast and the characters are varied and fun. A good start to a series.
March 9, 2018
Connected
Bree and Ana are friends of Cass, Del, and Nix who are from an earlier series. Similar to the other three, Bree and Ana are in hiding because of their powers. They have another sister too that isn't with them for some reason, which is suspicious. The sisters are saved by Cade and his team. Cade is a living manifestation of the god of war, who of course, is sexy and over all amazing. I enjoyed the action and that there is a connection to the fire souls. I also love the idea of the Protectorate, but I do wonder how they afford everything.
Bree and Ana are friends of Cass, Del, and Nix who are from an earlier series. Similar to the other three, Bree and Ana are in hiding because of their powers. They have another sister too that isn't with them for some reason, which is suspicious. The sisters are saved by Cade and his team. Cade is a living manifestation of the god of war, who of course, is sexy and over all amazing. I enjoyed the action and that there is a connection to the fire souls. I also love the idea of the Protectorate, but I do wonder how they afford everything.
December 27, 2017
After really enjoying the first series in this world, I was so excited to learn about the other spin-offs. In fact, I kind of might have bought 10 books on Audible during their sale. Oops.
So I was thrilled that our lovely author gave away codes to download this new book in the fourth series in this world to her readers.
Bree is someone new to me, I don't really remember her much from Cass's books, and I haven't yet read the other 2 series. So I was expecting a bit more backstory, and I was kind of off-balance about her story and connection with my favorite Fire Souls.
But that's OK 'cause Bree's still a badass and amazing fighter. So is her sister, but the story isn't about Ana. The sisters are Unknowns and have to hide their powers. But they're in trouble with the super creepy Blood Sorcerer, who they owe too much for keeping them hidden, and since they can't pay, now they're on his hit list.
No problem though, just in time an amazing group called the Undercover Protectorate come in and "invite" Bree and her sister to join their group. And that's when we meet Cade. Swoony, strong, with a Scottish accent. Oh, and he's the God of War. Can't lose there. You can tell the attraction right away. But, we have a teacher-apprentice conflict of interest issue going on and I'm curious to see how they overcome it.
I do enjoy this world and this universe of Magicka and Shifters and all these additional creatures. While this book had too much of a first-book-in-a-series feel (versus being the 16th book in this world) I am looking forward to more with these characters and this storyline.
So I was thrilled that our lovely author gave away codes to download this new book in the fourth series in this world to her readers.
Bree is someone new to me, I don't really remember her much from Cass's books, and I haven't yet read the other 2 series. So I was expecting a bit more backstory, and I was kind of off-balance about her story and connection with my favorite Fire Souls.
But that's OK 'cause Bree's still a badass and amazing fighter. So is her sister, but the story isn't about Ana. The sisters are Unknowns and have to hide their powers. But they're in trouble with the super creepy Blood Sorcerer, who they owe too much for keeping them hidden, and since they can't pay, now they're on his hit list.
No problem though, just in time an amazing group called the Undercover Protectorate come in and "invite" Bree and her sister to join their group. And that's when we meet Cade. Swoony, strong, with a Scottish accent. Oh, and he's the God of War. Can't lose there. You can tell the attraction right away. But, we have a teacher-apprentice conflict of interest issue going on and I'm curious to see how they overcome it.
I do enjoy this world and this universe of Magicka and Shifters and all these additional creatures. While this book had too much of a first-book-in-a-series feel (versus being the 16th book in this world) I am looking forward to more with these characters and this storyline.
December 6, 2017
I really enjoyed this book of adventure and sibling love. As Bree and Ana discover their powers, it will be great to follow along. I enjoy their fighting skill and their inventiveness to survive. I also,enjoyed the Order of Protectedness. I love the idea of such an organization for the hunted and vulnerable.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the day characters of Ana and Bree. I was amazed at their inventiveness to survive. I also enjoyed the Order of Protectedness. I love the idea of such an organization to protect the hunted and vulnerable.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the day characters of Ana and Bree. I was amazed at their inventiveness to survive. I also enjoyed the Order of Protectedness. I love the idea of such an organization to protect the hunted and vulnerable.
January 8, 2018
Loved it!!
A wonderful magical experience. All kinds of characters. My favorite part of fantasy books are learning all the different types of characters the author has come up with. Some people have such amazing imaginations to create and spin these stories. Excellent read! Can’t wait for more.
A wonderful magical experience. All kinds of characters. My favorite part of fantasy books are learning all the different types of characters the author has come up with. Some people have such amazing imaginations to create and spin these stories. Excellent read! Can’t wait for more.
December 18, 2017
Cliffhanger...
I would have enjoyed this book more if it had not had a cliffhanger ending. This seems to be the style now, the authors cranks out 4+ books in a series rather than finish a book that has an actual ending. For that, two stars.
I would have enjoyed this book more if it had not had a cliffhanger ending. This seems to be the style now, the authors cranks out 4+ books in a series rather than finish a book that has an actual ending. For that, two stars.
February 28, 2018
A light read
Some times you a need a mental break from reading doom and gloom zombie apocalypse end of civilization. This was a fun, light, and enjoyable read. I'll have to try the next one as well.
Some times you a need a mental break from reading doom and gloom zombie apocalypse end of civilization. This was a fun, light, and enjoyable read. I'll have to try the next one as well.
December 13, 2017
Great
New book/series!!! Start with hidden magic... love how this ties in with Cass del and nix' s stories.
I can't wait to find out what they are truly other then unknown
New book/series!!! Start with hidden magic... love how this ties in with Cass del and nix' s stories.
I can't wait to find out what they are truly other then unknown
January 22, 2018
3.5 AMY-zing stars.
March 12, 2018
Good
Excellent storyline with lots of action. The world building was described indepth and the characters were likeable. Bree and Ana, the main characters were ophan siblings who grew up as 'unknown' supernaturals. Cade is the love interest of Bree however I really didn't feel the chemistry between them. I felt the story lacked emotion and also connection between the characters. Bree was bossy, controlling and liked to take the lead on missions. Cade was a god but was happy to have a female driver. Bree and Ana were definitely no damsels and could own it in a fight. The ending is definitely set up for book 2. At the end they decided together they would join the academy to train and control their magic. It was left open as to who it was controlling the puppet (Rickett), the reasons why the master of the puppet wanted both Ana and Bree, where was their other sibling Rowan and finally what will happen between Cade and Bree? Clean read but quite violent. Not sure I want to read book 2 as personally I couldn't connect to the characters.
Excellent storyline with lots of action. The world building was described indepth and the characters were likeable. Bree and Ana, the main characters were ophan siblings who grew up as 'unknown' supernaturals. Cade is the love interest of Bree however I really didn't feel the chemistry between them. I felt the story lacked emotion and also connection between the characters. Bree was bossy, controlling and liked to take the lead on missions. Cade was a god but was happy to have a female driver. Bree and Ana were definitely no damsels and could own it in a fight. The ending is definitely set up for book 2. At the end they decided together they would join the academy to train and control their magic. It was left open as to who it was controlling the puppet (Rickett), the reasons why the master of the puppet wanted both Ana and Bree, where was their other sibling Rowan and finally what will happen between Cade and Bree? Clean read but quite violent. Not sure I want to read book 2 as personally I couldn't connect to the characters.
May 8, 2021
This was ok. The story I really liked. The way it was written, not so much. The characters are very flat and one dimensional. There's no complexity and no connection between any of the characters, even Bree and her sister Ana. Cade was pointless. Things happened out of nowhere and made no real sense. Like thr author wanted to make Bree more powerful or cooler and just randomly through something in.
So there is so much potential here but it was just executed in what felt like a formulaic kind of way. I do think this author has a lot of potential.
So there is so much potential here but it was just executed in what felt like a formulaic kind of way. I do think this author has a lot of potential.
July 6, 2025
More of the series! Fun books full of new characters along with some old. Lots of new adventures, can’t wait to discover more!!
February 26, 2018
Very good and fast paced
I have read most of Ms. Hall's books. This one is the start of a new series, but there are characters interspersed throughout from her other books. I like the continuity. The characters of Bree and Ana are interesting. This is a lot of fun to read.
I have read most of Ms. Hall's books. This one is the start of a new series, but there are characters interspersed throughout from her other books. I like the continuity. The characters of Bree and Ana are interesting. This is a lot of fun to read.
February 27, 2018
I don't really have words 'cause i love reading Linsey's books.
I can't wait to read the next one.
I can't wait to read the next one.
February 25, 2018
What a fun book!
I really enjoyed reading this book. A magical realm is opened up for two sisters that have stayed hidden up until now in Death Valley. I'd recommend this book to readers interested in YA fantasy, close calls and at least one hot god. ;)
I really enjoyed reading this book. A magical realm is opened up for two sisters that have stayed hidden up until now in Death Valley. I'd recommend this book to readers interested in YA fantasy, close calls and at least one hot god. ;)
February 17, 2018
I'm not great with headlines. Blurb didn't do it justice.
It was awesome reading about Bree and Ana, this time as the main characters, whom we met in the previous series. About five years have passed since the last series and it was also fun getting a peek into the previous characters. There are a lot of questions that come up in this that add depth to the storyline. I started reading this with some preconceptions, but those were blown away and I'm glad. This was much better than I imagined. I will say that the whole nonromance going on frustrates me but it also has it's appeal to the storyline.
It was awesome reading about Bree and Ana, this time as the main characters, whom we met in the previous series. About five years have passed since the last series and it was also fun getting a peek into the previous characters. There are a lot of questions that come up in this that add depth to the storyline. I started reading this with some preconceptions, but those were blown away and I'm glad. This was much better than I imagined. I will say that the whole nonromance going on frustrates me but it also has it's appeal to the storyline.
February 17, 2018
Was very captivating
Was a fast starter for a book one and didn't slow down till the last . (Period )
Full of suspense, mystery and a whole lot of excitement.
This book was worth my time and offered me great enjoyment.
Was a fast starter for a book one and didn't slow down till the last . (Period )
Full of suspense, mystery and a whole lot of excitement.
This book was worth my time and offered me great enjoyment.
February 16, 2018
Cute. Paced well. Like the characters.
February 15, 2018
Wow, awesome characters! Awe inspiring! Can't wait to see what happens next!!!😊😀😻
Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews