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Dragon's Gift: The Valkyrie #2
Academy of Magic
I've got one chance to prove myself and earn my place.
Against all odds, I’ve snagged myself a spot at the elite Undercover Protectorate. It’s basically a supernatural Scotland Yard, but in a castle. A dream come true.
All I have to do is make it through their academy. No big deal. Except that I’m a magical nightmare—a supernatural with a strange brand of unknown dragon magic.
When the Undercover Protectorate is attacked by a dark curse, it falls on me to solve the case—and save the castle. I have the help of my friends and the sexy Celtic war god Cade. But if I don’t figure out what’s going on, I’ll lose more than my place at the academy. I’ll lose my life.
Academy of Magic is a fast-paced urban fantasy adventure with a kick-butt heroine, a tough hero, and magic that will blow your socks off.
Against all odds, I’ve snagged myself a spot at the elite Undercover Protectorate. It’s basically a supernatural Scotland Yard, but in a castle. A dream come true.
All I have to do is make it through their academy. No big deal. Except that I’m a magical nightmare—a supernatural with a strange brand of unknown dragon magic.
When the Undercover Protectorate is attacked by a dark curse, it falls on me to solve the case—and save the castle. I have the help of my friends and the sexy Celtic war god Cade. But if I don’t figure out what’s going on, I’ll lose more than my place at the academy. I’ll lose my life.
Academy of Magic is a fast-paced urban fantasy adventure with a kick-butt heroine, a tough hero, and magic that will blow your socks off.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2017
1847 people are currently reading
789 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 134 reviews
December 17, 2017
Well it's been fabulous being back in this magical world that the author has created. I'm loving seeing the progression of Bree and Ana as they start to study with the Protectorate and have to admit that from the first line the author threw me into a fast paced , action packed story that had me wondering just what was really going on.
Bree is growing up and no longer feels like the teenager we first met. She's still struggling with her powers and needs the help of a very special tutor so please step forward Cade, God of war and all round hunk that has Bree sitting up and taking notice! Too bad that after just one intense kiss Cade has called a halt to possible shenanigans but then again with dark magic attempting to drip into their realm perhaps now really isn't the time to get distracted.
I'm slowly getting used to these new characters that make up the Protectorate and have to confess at times the set up reminds me a little of a famous fictional young wizard! Oh you know a character that clearly is deeply entrenched in the big bads plans but no one quite knows exactly why. Then we see Bree repeatedly performing feats that as a student she really doesn't seem to get credit for. Trials abound but amidst it all there is a shadowy figure raging attack and I felt Bree's frustration when yet again those in charge of the academy seem all to keen to keep their students in the dark. Still Bree isn't without her own cute and somewhat whimsical allies so as this particular adventure draws to a close answers are coming and boy does it leave me wondering just what will happen next!
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Bree is growing up and no longer feels like the teenager we first met. She's still struggling with her powers and needs the help of a very special tutor so please step forward Cade, God of war and all round hunk that has Bree sitting up and taking notice! Too bad that after just one intense kiss Cade has called a halt to possible shenanigans but then again with dark magic attempting to drip into their realm perhaps now really isn't the time to get distracted.
I'm slowly getting used to these new characters that make up the Protectorate and have to confess at times the set up reminds me a little of a famous fictional young wizard! Oh you know a character that clearly is deeply entrenched in the big bads plans but no one quite knows exactly why. Then we see Bree repeatedly performing feats that as a student she really doesn't seem to get credit for. Trials abound but amidst it all there is a shadowy figure raging attack and I felt Bree's frustration when yet again those in charge of the academy seem all to keen to keep their students in the dark. Still Bree isn't without her own cute and somewhat whimsical allies so as this particular adventure draws to a close answers are coming and boy does it leave me wondering just what will happen next!
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
January 10, 2018
Awesome story!
I’m so impressed by this author’s creative imagination. She spins a tale that you can’t help but visualize yourself in the story alongside the main characters.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
I’m so impressed by this author’s creative imagination. She spins a tale that you can’t help but visualize yourself in the story alongside the main characters.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
December 18, 2017
***3.5 Stars***
This is the second installment of Bree’s journey into figuring out what kind of Unknown she is while navigating her way through her new life as a trainee for the Undercover Protectorate and while I thoroughly enjoyed the first chapter to her story, I struggled with this one. I just couldn’t get lost in the story and that made things drag a bit for me. The details of the new places we got to explore with Bree and the new characters we met along the way, were all well written and there are a couple of characters I hope we come across again like Emrys and Melusine and even Rocky, but the hook just wasn’t there for me this time around.
Even though it took be a bit longer to finish the book, I will say that I liked how everything with the curse and the type of Unknown that Bree is was woven together and played out. I’m quite interested to learn more details as to what Bree is, how her new knowledge of what she is and newly acquired powers will shape her and the trials she will face because of it.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
This is the second installment of Bree’s journey into figuring out what kind of Unknown she is while navigating her way through her new life as a trainee for the Undercover Protectorate and while I thoroughly enjoyed the first chapter to her story, I struggled with this one. I just couldn’t get lost in the story and that made things drag a bit for me. The details of the new places we got to explore with Bree and the new characters we met along the way, were all well written and there are a couple of characters I hope we come across again like Emrys and Melusine and even Rocky, but the hook just wasn’t there for me this time around.
Even though it took be a bit longer to finish the book, I will say that I liked how everything with the curse and the type of Unknown that Bree is was woven together and played out. I’m quite interested to learn more details as to what Bree is, how her new knowledge of what she is and newly acquired powers will shape her and the trials she will face because of it.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
July 8, 2025
I was thinking I remember as a youngster reading the Boxcar Children series and how much I loved the adventures and mysteries. Reading Lindsay’s books is similar with the adventures, however they are much more exciting with the problems that the “family members” encounter and the additional “family” they acquire along the way! These stores also have romance, fairies, animals, Vampires, Shifters ….. and many other magical beasts. I get to fight along side them as I read! Such fun!
February 27, 2018
Good second book. Could do with a few more explanations. Everything is still very much a mystery so hope that changes in the next book.
March 1, 2018
This serie is going strong!!! Love the story!!!
Really like Bree character...
Jumping to the next book!!
Really like Bree character...
Jumping to the next book!!
August 16, 2021
the last chapter was too painful and stupid to read.
Recap:
Bree was doing her exam to prove herself worthy to join class with the others (because she couldn't control her sonic booms). she was tasked to capture the flag but then, she was distracted by one of the portal in the castle, specifically the portal to fairy realm. instead of gray like the usual, this time it was black, oily, and smelled like rotten egg. even worse, there was something calling her to enter it. she immediately abandoned her task and told Jude about it but when she and the others inspected it, they only said that indeed, there was something wrong, but they only saw it slightly grayer instead of black and the small was light.
then cade, who'd been disappearing for weeks, reappeared to train her bcs he was the only one who was unaffected by her sonic boom. they sword fight a little when Jude, Hedy, and Potts (librarian) came and told them they had revealed the dark magic in the portal and it was spreading. they needed to enter the realm and investigated but they needed a potion to protect them from the oily substance so they went to Edinburg to meet with Tabitha who would take them to The Vault. there was Order's people loitering outside m, trying to investigate the place but they swiftly got rid of them and Tabitha altered their memories.
they entered through a bookstore that could talk, found the store, got the protective potion, then the store owner gave Bree a pass so she could revisit to find her. they were about to leave when they heard a store owner got bullied. they also quickly subdued them but Bree got shot by slime so they had to go to Cade's oversized apartment to clean up.
Then they were saved by a rock creature named Rocky who killed vampire demon bat (VDB). Rocky took them to the fae city but he said he had to head back home for dinner. they were attacked by more of the VDB so Cade shifted into a wolf and Bree ride him while lying waste to all those VDBs. finally they arrived to the city but it was so maze-like and after some wandering around and got lost, they found a night club to ask around. they met with a cute guy named Emrys but another guy (sexual predator) tried to seduce Bree. she punched him but it angered the whole fae, so they shifted into fighting forms and hunted them.
Emrys took them to some escape tunnel but it got stuck so they had to hold them back. before Emrys could open the trap door, there was this one fae who was evil and he shot poison and it got on Cade. fortunately, the trap door opened and they managed to escape. unfortunately, the poison was so painful, most people kill themself because of it, and Cade couldn't self-heal. Emrys took the to his grandpa's house, who was a healer. Cade was told to go into bath up full of potion and Bree accompanied him but Bree suddenly got the urge to heal him and voila, she got new healing power.
Emry's grandpa came at that moment and he seemed scared of Bree, calling her Alateivia and he ran away. the next morning, Emrys told them that the curse started a week ago from the neighboring dead town full of VDB but it was Emrys' common scavenging ground but the portal in the well scared him so much. he tried to ask for help from the Elder but they turned him down, that was why he was in the club the day before. but he would take them there (although not to the portal), and they ride on a carriage to reach the city. they were attacked by some giant sand skeleton and apparently, Bree lost her sonic boom power, so she got rid of them with water fist punch. they arrived, Emrys left, and they went to the well, got teleported to some kind of hell, almost got maimed by the oily monster, teleported back to fae realm, heard the creature calling for her, and decided to get help before they proceeded so they returned back to UP.
they had a meeting with the other leaders. they suspected that they wanted to enter the fortress but it was too well protected that was why they used the fae portal. they decided to attack the next day so that night, Bree and Ana decided to find answer in a library inside a library. somehow, someway, they immediately found the book and information they were looking for. ran was norse goddess of the sea while Alateivia was goddess of healing.
in the morning, they went to the portal again. Cade, Bree, Ana, Caro, Haris, and Ali would enter the hell to investigate and find some answers while the others prepared to blow up the portal. bree and friends faced the usual oily monsters, thorny vines, giant wave of dirt and demons. ana, bree, and cade entered the building, found a book titled dei rebelles, found ogres guarding a door, cade fought the ogre, ana and bree entered the door, found evil woman in a crystal, the crystal exploded, they fought, cade came in, the women ran away, and the cursed gone (how?!?!?!!! they didn't even do anything about it). they returned back and destroyed the portal.
it was fucking ridiculous, in the next chapter, the book's name changed from dei rebelles into revello deorum... fckin newbie author... and as expected, without looking for dictionary (this stupid character needed to though 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️) it means rebel gods-.- this book latched my intelligence. she told the others about it but they got tensed and wouldn't tell her anything so she sought Arach for answer. Arach said Bree and Ana was the lats of dragongods (they gave their power to worthy individuals, blablabla, just like in firesoul series), and Bree was the Valkyrie and she had to control her power or it'd all disappeared like her sonic power. and finally, cade and bree acknowledged their feelings for each other and stopped pretending (even though not in relationship yet). so fckin dull.
Recap:
Bree was doing her exam to prove herself worthy to join class with the others (because she couldn't control her sonic booms). she was tasked to capture the flag but then, she was distracted by one of the portal in the castle, specifically the portal to fairy realm. instead of gray like the usual, this time it was black, oily, and smelled like rotten egg. even worse, there was something calling her to enter it. she immediately abandoned her task and told Jude about it but when she and the others inspected it, they only said that indeed, there was something wrong, but they only saw it slightly grayer instead of black and the small was light.
then cade, who'd been disappearing for weeks, reappeared to train her bcs he was the only one who was unaffected by her sonic boom. they sword fight a little when Jude, Hedy, and Potts (librarian) came and told them they had revealed the dark magic in the portal and it was spreading. they needed to enter the realm and investigated but they needed a potion to protect them from the oily substance so they went to Edinburg to meet with Tabitha who would take them to The Vault. there was Order's people loitering outside m, trying to investigate the place but they swiftly got rid of them and Tabitha altered their memories.
they entered through a bookstore that could talk, found the store, got the protective potion, then the store owner gave Bree a pass so she could revisit to find her. they were about to leave when they heard a store owner got bullied. they also quickly subdued them but Bree got shot by slime so they had to go to Cade's oversized apartment to clean up.
Then they were saved by a rock creature named Rocky who killed vampire demon bat (VDB). Rocky took them to the fae city but he said he had to head back home for dinner. they were attacked by more of the VDB so Cade shifted into a wolf and Bree ride him while lying waste to all those VDBs. finally they arrived to the city but it was so maze-like and after some wandering around and got lost, they found a night club to ask around. they met with a cute guy named Emrys but another guy (sexual predator) tried to seduce Bree. she punched him but it angered the whole fae, so they shifted into fighting forms and hunted them.
Emrys took them to some escape tunnel but it got stuck so they had to hold them back. before Emrys could open the trap door, there was this one fae who was evil and he shot poison and it got on Cade. fortunately, the trap door opened and they managed to escape. unfortunately, the poison was so painful, most people kill themself because of it, and Cade couldn't self-heal. Emrys took the to his grandpa's house, who was a healer. Cade was told to go into bath up full of potion and Bree accompanied him but Bree suddenly got the urge to heal him and voila, she got new healing power.
Emry's grandpa came at that moment and he seemed scared of Bree, calling her Alateivia and he ran away. the next morning, Emrys told them that the curse started a week ago from the neighboring dead town full of VDB but it was Emrys' common scavenging ground but the portal in the well scared him so much. he tried to ask for help from the Elder but they turned him down, that was why he was in the club the day before. but he would take them there (although not to the portal), and they ride on a carriage to reach the city. they were attacked by some giant sand skeleton and apparently, Bree lost her sonic boom power, so she got rid of them with water fist punch. they arrived, Emrys left, and they went to the well, got teleported to some kind of hell, almost got maimed by the oily monster, teleported back to fae realm, heard the creature calling for her, and decided to get help before they proceeded so they returned back to UP.
they had a meeting with the other leaders. they suspected that they wanted to enter the fortress but it was too well protected that was why they used the fae portal. they decided to attack the next day so that night, Bree and Ana decided to find answer in a library inside a library. somehow, someway, they immediately found the book and information they were looking for. ran was norse goddess of the sea while Alateivia was goddess of healing.
in the morning, they went to the portal again. Cade, Bree, Ana, Caro, Haris, and Ali would enter the hell to investigate and find some answers while the others prepared to blow up the portal. bree and friends faced the usual oily monsters, thorny vines, giant wave of dirt and demons. ana, bree, and cade entered the building, found a book titled dei rebelles, found ogres guarding a door, cade fought the ogre, ana and bree entered the door, found evil woman in a crystal, the crystal exploded, they fought, cade came in, the women ran away, and the cursed gone (how?!?!?!!! they didn't even do anything about it). they returned back and destroyed the portal.
it was fucking ridiculous, in the next chapter, the book's name changed from dei rebelles into revello deorum... fckin newbie author... and as expected, without looking for dictionary (this stupid character needed to though 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️) it means rebel gods-.- this book latched my intelligence. she told the others about it but they got tensed and wouldn't tell her anything so she sought Arach for answer. Arach said Bree and Ana was the lats of dragongods (they gave their power to worthy individuals, blablabla, just like in firesoul series), and Bree was the Valkyrie and she had to control her power or it'd all disappeared like her sonic power. and finally, cade and bree acknowledged their feelings for each other and stopped pretending (even though not in relationship yet). so fckin dull.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2018
There are some inconsistencies. Melusine calls Bree “Njord” at one point and Bree totally ignores it until Melusine does it again. When Bree and Cade meet a man made of rock they find that his idea of ‘recently’ could mean days or years, and he mentions that rocks can’t tell time, then crows about his fastest time crossing a river being 45 seconds. They’re little things, but they add up.
The other thing I’m not always fond of is the formulaic nature of these books. There are some advantages to it. For one, as an author I’m sure it’s a lot easier to write all of these books when you know there’s one discreet task per book, the hot guy always shows up at the beginning, and so on. For another, as a reader, while many people like surprises in their reading, sometimes you just want a particular kind of writing. Like wanting a comfort read when you’re sick or depressed. You can get that here. But it does take away that element of risk and surprise. I mean, once you’ve identified the task for the book you know it’ll get resolved by the end–the only question is how. Each main character even has her own Favorite Drink and Favorite Food, as though the author filled out a form for each character. We know that each main character will gain powers as the books progress, even if it’s for entirely different reasons than previous main characters.
I love the Fae world in here, although we don’t see it at a “normal” time. I love the predator/prey interactions and how they work. The rock-man (“Rocky”, naturally) is also an entertaining character, and I wish we’d gotten to see him a little more.
One of my favorite parts of this particular sub-series in the Dragon’s Gift world is the Pugs of Destruction. They’re just so damn entertaining and adorable.
So in conclusion, you kind of need to be in the right mood for these books. If you want a comfort read with undeniably strong female characters, respectful love interests, and exceedingly creative fight scenes, these are excellent books. If you need to be surprised or to feel the tension that comes with risk, this isn’t for you. I find that when I’m in the right mood they’re fantastic.
Consider my rating a 3.5
Review originally posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2018/11/r...
The other thing I’m not always fond of is the formulaic nature of these books. There are some advantages to it. For one, as an author I’m sure it’s a lot easier to write all of these books when you know there’s one discreet task per book, the hot guy always shows up at the beginning, and so on. For another, as a reader, while many people like surprises in their reading, sometimes you just want a particular kind of writing. Like wanting a comfort read when you’re sick or depressed. You can get that here. But it does take away that element of risk and surprise. I mean, once you’ve identified the task for the book you know it’ll get resolved by the end–the only question is how. Each main character even has her own Favorite Drink and Favorite Food, as though the author filled out a form for each character. We know that each main character will gain powers as the books progress, even if it’s for entirely different reasons than previous main characters.
I love the Fae world in here, although we don’t see it at a “normal” time. I love the predator/prey interactions and how they work. The rock-man (“Rocky”, naturally) is also an entertaining character, and I wish we’d gotten to see him a little more.
One of my favorite parts of this particular sub-series in the Dragon’s Gift world is the Pugs of Destruction. They’re just so damn entertaining and adorable.
So in conclusion, you kind of need to be in the right mood for these books. If you want a comfort read with undeniably strong female characters, respectful love interests, and exceedingly creative fight scenes, these are excellent books. If you need to be surprised or to feel the tension that comes with risk, this isn’t for you. I find that when I’m in the right mood they’re fantastic.
Consider my rating a 3.5
Review originally posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2018/11/r...
December 19, 2017
Good but not as good as the original trio so far
I like Bree, I like Ana, I like Cade, I like their new world and the adventures. But I’m not super invested in her yet; she a bit too simpering school girl to me. The first set of girls were badass and got significant others. But Bree is always scared (she has courage but I found I was annoyed every time the word fear showed up, couldn’t you just show it rather than tell us every. Time.), uncertain (in annoying internal monologue way), desperate for acceptance (always trying to prove herself to the new group but not to who it matters, herself), and all around an anxious mess. There isn’t a deep connection between her and her sister. She is always saying Cade “is right”, and then there is a little fight scene where she does well, everyone cheers (like she already fights monsters her who life, it feels like a pep rally), and she *hopes* they’ll accept her. I am hoping for a little more back bone. Her emotions are healthy but take the forefront and away from the story a bit. Show me her reactions, lead me through her world. I found I was being told a lot, she likes Cade (internal monologue), she’s scared (internal monologue telling me so), she is nervous (will they like me?? Via internal thoughts) I’m all for striving to better yourself but this screams high school click and hope to be where she can belong. This story is great but as I read it the amazing settings and worlds and dimensions and portals were overshadowed by the sense that this 20 something girl was 13 trying to find a click freshmen year. This all seems harsh but the authors previous books balanced the internal and external struggles of her characters and kept the independent, smart, and skills intact under the surface. I feel like I question if Bree can be independent and I don’t see myself In her. It’s making it hard to root for her. I will definitely grab the next book because the story has so much potential! And the first series was phenomenal!
I like Bree, I like Ana, I like Cade, I like their new world and the adventures. But I’m not super invested in her yet; she a bit too simpering school girl to me. The first set of girls were badass and got significant others. But Bree is always scared (she has courage but I found I was annoyed every time the word fear showed up, couldn’t you just show it rather than tell us every. Time.), uncertain (in annoying internal monologue way), desperate for acceptance (always trying to prove herself to the new group but not to who it matters, herself), and all around an anxious mess. There isn’t a deep connection between her and her sister. She is always saying Cade “is right”, and then there is a little fight scene where she does well, everyone cheers (like she already fights monsters her who life, it feels like a pep rally), and she *hopes* they’ll accept her. I am hoping for a little more back bone. Her emotions are healthy but take the forefront and away from the story a bit. Show me her reactions, lead me through her world. I found I was being told a lot, she likes Cade (internal monologue), she’s scared (internal monologue telling me so), she is nervous (will they like me?? Via internal thoughts) I’m all for striving to better yourself but this screams high school click and hope to be where she can belong. This story is great but as I read it the amazing settings and worlds and dimensions and portals were overshadowed by the sense that this 20 something girl was 13 trying to find a click freshmen year. This all seems harsh but the authors previous books balanced the internal and external struggles of her characters and kept the independent, smart, and skills intact under the surface. I feel like I question if Bree can be independent and I don’t see myself In her. It’s making it hard to root for her. I will definitely grab the next book because the story has so much potential! And the first series was phenomenal!
January 10, 2019
This is a second book in a series Dragon's Gift: The Valkyrie which is a continuation of adventures of Bree and her sister Ann (but mostly Bree:)). This time sisters are trainees at the Undercover Protectorate and during Bree's first test, which she actually fails, an evil course is discovered. Regardless the failed test Bree and Cade- sexy god of war- enter the Fae portal to find out more about this sickness that is spreading onto their territory. Will they be able to resist themselves during that quest?
And another evening spent with Linsey Hall's book. I am getting quite addicted to her writing, she is progressing with each book, if that's even possible. I enjoyed this sequel even more than the first book in this series and I can say that I picked the next one straight away!
This time we find out a little bit more about Bree, she's being called names and finally discovers who she is but just in the name. She still needs to learn how to not loose herself or how to control her powers. There is also a progress in a physical tension between her and Cade but I am not saying more! I can't wait to see how they will end up!
I'm not sure what can we expect in the next three books but it only makes me want to read them. I like that finally nothing is predictable and all is surprising. This new world has sucked me in and it will be difficult to live my normal life once I'm all finished with this series. When asleep I dream of a sonic boom and when awake I have my own Cade story, just my Cade is not a god of war but a healer :)
Stay tuned for more!
PS. I wish so much to have physical copies of this series... They would look so good on my Instagram!
And another evening spent with Linsey Hall's book. I am getting quite addicted to her writing, she is progressing with each book, if that's even possible. I enjoyed this sequel even more than the first book in this series and I can say that I picked the next one straight away!
This time we find out a little bit more about Bree, she's being called names and finally discovers who she is but just in the name. She still needs to learn how to not loose herself or how to control her powers. There is also a progress in a physical tension between her and Cade but I am not saying more! I can't wait to see how they will end up!
I'm not sure what can we expect in the next three books but it only makes me want to read them. I like that finally nothing is predictable and all is surprising. This new world has sucked me in and it will be difficult to live my normal life once I'm all finished with this series. When asleep I dream of a sonic boom and when awake I have my own Cade story, just my Cade is not a god of war but a healer :)
Stay tuned for more!
PS. I wish so much to have physical copies of this series... They would look so good on my Instagram!
December 11, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Linsey Hall's books have never disappointed, not once, and she continues to write amazing books! I am simply in awe of Linsey's talent, as even some of my all time favourite authors have written the odd 'so so' book - not bad, but not quite to their usual standard - and yet Linsey has created this wonderful world full of fabulous characters and every time I get my hands on a new book of hers I devour it in one sitting.
It's funny, but when I heard that the girls from the Dragon Gift series weren't going to have much of an appearance in these books, at least initially, I was rather disappointed. However, now that I've had a chance to really become engrossed in this world, and meet this entirely new cast of characters (bar the sisters of course) I am no longer disappointed. Of course I'd love to see the trio again, and their men, and have a catch up with them all but I do really like the focus being on these girls and the life they are creating for themselves.
In this book we learn a little more about what Bree's ancestry is, and honestly it is so interesting, and I can't wait to discover more. I'm also really intrigued to find out what is going to happen to Ana and her power later on to. We also see a little bit of development between Bree and Cade, to which I can only say 'finally!' (Honestly, I have zero patience)
Linsey Hall's books have never disappointed, not once, and she continues to write amazing books! I am simply in awe of Linsey's talent, as even some of my all time favourite authors have written the odd 'so so' book - not bad, but not quite to their usual standard - and yet Linsey has created this wonderful world full of fabulous characters and every time I get my hands on a new book of hers I devour it in one sitting.
It's funny, but when I heard that the girls from the Dragon Gift series weren't going to have much of an appearance in these books, at least initially, I was rather disappointed. However, now that I've had a chance to really become engrossed in this world, and meet this entirely new cast of characters (bar the sisters of course) I am no longer disappointed. Of course I'd love to see the trio again, and their men, and have a catch up with them all but I do really like the focus being on these girls and the life they are creating for themselves.
In this book we learn a little more about what Bree's ancestry is, and honestly it is so interesting, and I can't wait to discover more. I'm also really intrigued to find out what is going to happen to Ana and her power later on to. We also see a little bit of development between Bree and Cade, to which I can only say 'finally!' (Honestly, I have zero patience)
August 23, 2018
Great Book!
I loved everything about this one out of all the Dragons Gift Series’s! I, too love archaeology, especially historical archaeology! This includes so much of that with the Norse Gods, etc. Great protagonist, I really don’t know the antagonist yet, I’m sure we’ll find out soon. Will Bree find Fallon? Well we’ll have to keep reading to see, personally I think she will, but there’ll be some kind of issue with her (I DONT READ SPOILERS, SNIPPETS, OR EVEN DESCRIPTION, I KNOW MY GENRES AND IF ITS SOMETHING I DONT LIKE I RETURN IT TO AUDIBLE AND AMAZON) SO I REALLY DON’T know, I am a writer as well, so I can just think, that’s what I’d do! Absolutely wonderful and magical! Who knows what’ll happen with Cade and Bree, I mean we know they’ll eventually get together, but will they hook up first, from the physical chemistry I’m guessing yes, but maybe they’re stronger than I could’ve ever been at that age, and being a combat soldier as well, we are a bit different than the normal guy LOL, they also have some kind of strange connection mentally, though I haven’t figured it out yet, well onward and upward to the next one as soon as I finish a chapter at least in my own book 1 of my new series. Such a great book and job as well Linsey! Keep em coming...Rob Ballon, USA SF-ODD (Ret)
I loved everything about this one out of all the Dragons Gift Series’s! I, too love archaeology, especially historical archaeology! This includes so much of that with the Norse Gods, etc. Great protagonist, I really don’t know the antagonist yet, I’m sure we’ll find out soon. Will Bree find Fallon? Well we’ll have to keep reading to see, personally I think she will, but there’ll be some kind of issue with her (I DONT READ SPOILERS, SNIPPETS, OR EVEN DESCRIPTION, I KNOW MY GENRES AND IF ITS SOMETHING I DONT LIKE I RETURN IT TO AUDIBLE AND AMAZON) SO I REALLY DON’T know, I am a writer as well, so I can just think, that’s what I’d do! Absolutely wonderful and magical! Who knows what’ll happen with Cade and Bree, I mean we know they’ll eventually get together, but will they hook up first, from the physical chemistry I’m guessing yes, but maybe they’re stronger than I could’ve ever been at that age, and being a combat soldier as well, we are a bit different than the normal guy LOL, they also have some kind of strange connection mentally, though I haven’t figured it out yet, well onward and upward to the next one as soon as I finish a chapter at least in my own book 1 of my new series. Such a great book and job as well Linsey! Keep em coming...Rob Ballon, USA SF-ODD (Ret)
December 17, 2017
Academy of Magic Dragons Gift The Valkyrie
Linsey Hall
We pick up with Bree facing a really monstrous beast and…losing?!?!?!? Brees’ confidence is at a really all time low. Her magic is being hard to handle, the training at the Undercover Protectorate is kicking her butt and oh what’s this? A portal with inky black stuff coming out of it? And what did that thing say…Hey that’s MY name!
Anything that smelled rotten, looked worse, and gave you shudders meant only 1 thing……RUN! Bree is in turmoil. But then so was Hedy and Jude. Nothing was supposed to get through Undercover Protectorate magic…NOTHING!
We meet new characters the Pugs of Destruction, ghostly dogs with chaos on the brain, one of whom has taken a liking to Bree, slurp!. And old ones, Cade the fast as lighting God of War, hunk, has been evading Bree….Why? Caro, the water sprite with a punch and Ana are just helping Bree keep it together.
Then there’s this mystical black ooze that knows Bree by name and has gotten through a long closed portal. Some see it, some don’t, but one thing is certain…its spells TROUBLE. So settle down with your favorite beverage in a comfy spot and pick up Academy of Magic….you wont put it down till THE END!
I was given an ARC but the Review is mine and freely submitted
Linsey Hall
We pick up with Bree facing a really monstrous beast and…losing?!?!?!? Brees’ confidence is at a really all time low. Her magic is being hard to handle, the training at the Undercover Protectorate is kicking her butt and oh what’s this? A portal with inky black stuff coming out of it? And what did that thing say…Hey that’s MY name!
Anything that smelled rotten, looked worse, and gave you shudders meant only 1 thing……RUN! Bree is in turmoil. But then so was Hedy and Jude. Nothing was supposed to get through Undercover Protectorate magic…NOTHING!
We meet new characters the Pugs of Destruction, ghostly dogs with chaos on the brain, one of whom has taken a liking to Bree, slurp!. And old ones, Cade the fast as lighting God of War, hunk, has been evading Bree….Why? Caro, the water sprite with a punch and Ana are just helping Bree keep it together.
Then there’s this mystical black ooze that knows Bree by name and has gotten through a long closed portal. Some see it, some don’t, but one thing is certain…its spells TROUBLE. So settle down with your favorite beverage in a comfy spot and pick up Academy of Magic….you wont put it down till THE END!
I was given an ARC but the Review is mine and freely submitted
June 12, 2021
Having read Rowan’s series out of order was both a help and hindrance reading Bree’s. This novel answers many questions about what terms meant and the sisters’ history that I was missing before. But it muted some of the suspense and made me wonder why, with Cade’s wide array of power, all I knew in reading Rowan was he could change to a wolf. But the biggest confusion was that I assumed I’d get answers about the sisters—whether they triplets and if not how they can be so close in age, and if not the birth order; are they siblings by blood or possibly adopted. It seems odd that they not mention either being triplets or birth order comments.
Bree is finally getting some of her own questions answered about what’s happening to her magic and who is after them. The quest of stopping a curse that could destroy the Protectorate lands and castle had some interesting, a couple engaging new characters in Rocky and Emrys, and some creative plot twists. Things with Cade continue to develop and gain definition. Secondary characters are becoming more defined and interesting. Definitely an enjoyable read as long as you just go along for the funhouse ride and don’t wonder too deeply.
Bree is finally getting some of her own questions answered about what’s happening to her magic and who is after them. The quest of stopping a curse that could destroy the Protectorate lands and castle had some interesting, a couple engaging new characters in Rocky and Emrys, and some creative plot twists. Things with Cade continue to develop and gain definition. Secondary characters are becoming more defined and interesting. Definitely an enjoyable read as long as you just go along for the funhouse ride and don’t wonder too deeply.
March 22, 2023
Good
Book two of Bree’s story has her helping the Protectorate find the source of a curse that puts them in danger.
Bree’s powers are changing still, and this is not only confusing, but dangerous to herself and everyone around her.
Continuing on from where the first book in this series ended, we find the sisters in Scotland, endeavouring to earn their places in the protectorate. Bree’s wonky powers have her segregated from the others, and she’s very much an outsider. Fortunately, she has some friends, and her sister there, and enough goodwill that people are glad to have her around.
As is perfectly normal in the Dragon Gifts universe, this is a fast paced, action filled adventure. There’s a hint of romance, some mystery revelations, and loads of monsters and magic. No cameo appearances from old friends this time, but plenty of interesting new characters to make up for it.
Star of the book award goes to the ghostly dogs causing muttly mayhem in the protectorate castle- and one in particular is extra cool!
A fast, fun read for the urban fantasy enthusiast and fans of the author.
Book two of Bree’s story has her helping the Protectorate find the source of a curse that puts them in danger.
Bree’s powers are changing still, and this is not only confusing, but dangerous to herself and everyone around her.
Continuing on from where the first book in this series ended, we find the sisters in Scotland, endeavouring to earn their places in the protectorate. Bree’s wonky powers have her segregated from the others, and she’s very much an outsider. Fortunately, she has some friends, and her sister there, and enough goodwill that people are glad to have her around.
As is perfectly normal in the Dragon Gifts universe, this is a fast paced, action filled adventure. There’s a hint of romance, some mystery revelations, and loads of monsters and magic. No cameo appearances from old friends this time, but plenty of interesting new characters to make up for it.
Star of the book award goes to the ghostly dogs causing muttly mayhem in the protectorate castle- and one in particular is extra cool!
A fast, fun read for the urban fantasy enthusiast and fans of the author.
January 11, 2018
Better
I really enjoyed this second part of Bree's story and am looking forward to the next bits. I love the way Linsey keeps all the world bits from all the Dragon's Gift series in the air. I would need a chart.
On a side note, if you are looking for a great author, I highly recommend Linsey not just for her writing (which I obviously love)) but for keeping true to her archeology beliefs that knowledge belongs to all of us. I love going to museums and seeing all kinds of artifacts from different places and learning about different cultures. I appreciate the fact that Linsey didn't make her characters treasure hunters who keep items because they are gold or rare. I'm never going to be rich so I get to explore through books and museums which wouldn't be possible if there weren't people willing to share their exploration with the rest of us. I like reading the back matter in these books and hearing about the places and the past. I appreciate an author who let's me do that. Anyway, I recommend these books two-fold.
I really enjoyed this second part of Bree's story and am looking forward to the next bits. I love the way Linsey keeps all the world bits from all the Dragon's Gift series in the air. I would need a chart.
On a side note, if you are looking for a great author, I highly recommend Linsey not just for her writing (which I obviously love)) but for keeping true to her archeology beliefs that knowledge belongs to all of us. I love going to museums and seeing all kinds of artifacts from different places and learning about different cultures. I appreciate the fact that Linsey didn't make her characters treasure hunters who keep items because they are gold or rare. I'm never going to be rich so I get to explore through books and museums which wouldn't be possible if there weren't people willing to share their exploration with the rest of us. I like reading the back matter in these books and hearing about the places and the past. I appreciate an author who let's me do that. Anyway, I recommend these books two-fold.
December 11, 2017
This is the second book in Dragon's Gift: The Valkyrie series. Bree is settling in at the Academy while hoping she can make it through training. In the middle of a trial, she spots strange things going on at one of the portals. After investigating, they find it’s a curse and must be stopped before it takes over. But, Bree finds out about more than how to stop the curse in the investigation; she finds out who she is. I absolutely adore Ms. Hall’s writing, and this book was no exception! This book was full of great writing, action, and plots. Cade is a great partner for Bree, and I love the progress they’ve made in this book. I can’t get enough of the side characters just like I did in Ms. Hall’s other series; and just like in those, I hope these characters get their own chance to shine. There is so much potential in this series that I can’t wait to find out everything. And, I know that this author will deliver very well, just like she delivered in this book. If you love urban fantasy, give this one a try! Highly recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
July 17, 2023
good
This series seems to be getting better with every book. Sometimes in different scenes in this book, it is almost like I’m reading about teenagers instead of adults in this book. Bree and Cade act like lovesick teenagers, and when they get together, they stare at each other like teenagers with their first crush. It does get annoying. These two need to act like adults, and start realizing what they’re actually feeling towards each other instead of trying to ignore it. They finally do this close to the end, but apparently they’re still treating it like it doesn’t really exist because they think it’ll just run its course and be done with, and they can go right back to being colleagues again. Bree did get some answers about her magic in this book but unfortunately, she also lost some of her other magic. All in all this book was fun. I will read the next book in the series.
This series seems to be getting better with every book. Sometimes in different scenes in this book, it is almost like I’m reading about teenagers instead of adults in this book. Bree and Cade act like lovesick teenagers, and when they get together, they stare at each other like teenagers with their first crush. It does get annoying. These two need to act like adults, and start realizing what they’re actually feeling towards each other instead of trying to ignore it. They finally do this close to the end, but apparently they’re still treating it like it doesn’t really exist because they think it’ll just run its course and be done with, and they can go right back to being colleagues again. Bree did get some answers about her magic in this book but unfortunately, she also lost some of her other magic. All in all this book was fun. I will read the next book in the series.
December 30, 2017
Where does one even start a review with such a fabulous book
Well I can tell you firstly who wouldn't want to be Bree? So many amazing life changes, will she beat her foe? Will Ana and Bree discover who it is in the future, finding not just amazing new magic talents but also discovering Cade........I mean he is just sooooooo yummy ( as are all Linsey's leading men!) As per usual the wait for the next book will keep me on tenterhooks...... Also as usual, the end of every book from this talented author leaves more questions begging to be answered, which guarantees the reader a great reward when the next book is released, happily its never too long a wait......a must read book from a must read series by a most talented author.......you end up not reading a book but living in a new world just for you.
Well I can tell you firstly who wouldn't want to be Bree? So many amazing life changes, will she beat her foe? Will Ana and Bree discover who it is in the future, finding not just amazing new magic talents but also discovering Cade........I mean he is just sooooooo yummy ( as are all Linsey's leading men!) As per usual the wait for the next book will keep me on tenterhooks...... Also as usual, the end of every book from this talented author leaves more questions begging to be answered, which guarantees the reader a great reward when the next book is released, happily its never too long a wait......a must read book from a must read series by a most talented author.......you end up not reading a book but living in a new world just for you.
December 21, 2017
This book did not disappoint. It reveals more of whom Bree is as she learns to deal with the new powers emerging. I like that she gets to go out and do actual fighting instead of just training. The fighting, I feel, shows what she is really capable of. No matter how scared or nervous she gets she is always the first to jump right in. It warms my heart that she and her sister have found a place where they feel accepted and fit in. I love it when they get the buggy going. I think they have their greatest adventures in that buggy. I would love to see an actual drawing of the buggy. It doesn’t have to be a fancy complete drawing but I’d like to see if it connects to what my minds eye sees. I can’t wait to read the next in this series.
December 18, 2017
Excellent magical fantasy with a touch of romance. Ms. Hall makes every book in a series so it has a HFN. This is the second book regarding Bree. In each book thus far the reader learns more about who she is and her magical powers. She works beside her sister Ana and the Protectorate. Cade, was introduced in the first book. In this story the connection between Cade - the god of war and Bree escalates slightly. I enjoy the way the author adds tid-bits of information throughout the action so the characters learn more about their past and future. I look forward to reading future books by this author and especially in this series. I received a complementary copy of this book and chose to write a review.
August 23, 2018
Academy of Magic is the second book in the fourth Dragon's Gift series by Linsey Hall. Bree's magic is on the fritz. It has become unreliable and can fluctuate at any given moment. While training in the Academy of the Undercover Protectorate Bree comes across a tar-like magic coming off the closed portal in the woods. It is a dark curse, and with the help of the Celtic war god Cade, she'll travel through the portal to uncover the origin of the curse.
Overall, this was another exciting novel by this author. The plot is fast paced and Bree's magic takes some interesting turns. The only negative is that the author has yet to revisit characters that Bree and Cade met beyond the portal in any other novels.
Overall, this was another exciting novel by this author. The plot is fast paced and Bree's magic takes some interesting turns. The only negative is that the author has yet to revisit characters that Bree and Cade met beyond the portal in any other novels.
February 19, 2022
Enjoy the action and adventure, and the magical aspects are fun! Not a lot of depth to the story, but I enjoy this author’s books. In this one, Bree and her sister are training at the Protectorate; learning about their magic and fighting skills. Unfortunately, there’s someone out to get them, so they set out to solve that mystery. Luckily, they have some help from the other members of the Protectorate. There’s also a bit of light romance between Bree and Celtic war god Cade; they’re cute together. The premise with Bree being involved with the Protectorate is an enjoyable one; Bree is a tough lady! This book ends with some answers, but also more questions. An entertaining, fun read! Excited for the next one!
December 11, 2017
I loved Undercover Magic, the first book in this series, and was been eagerly awaiting book 2. Well it was worth the wait. Academy of Magic was quite simply superb. I read it in one sitting - just could not put it down. Now it’s ridiculously late and I’ve got to be up early for that while pesky work thing. I will be a zombie in the office but don’t mind paying the price. This book had everything I wanted. Bree is growing into quite the kick-a** babe, her relationship with Cade is growing too, and the problems she had to deal with? You guessed it: growing too. Don’t worry though, our heroine will deal with all in a tale full of adventure, twists and turns.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
December 12, 2017
I absolutely love this author and her series. This one is no different as we know find Bree getting into training and becoming a part of the group. When she spots something during training and reports it she finds her training revving up. Loads of excitement and intrigue plus a little love interest may be brewing but I love that this author keeps it mild. Love these girls and that Bree is finding out finally who she is and what she has the ability to do. Great series I know it will only get better.
January 13, 2018
Compelling
Another good book...fast paced, new threats, and continued goo goo eyes between Brew and Care. I know that the author is female and her writing style tends to favor descriptions of characters that favor the female reader (rippling muscles, etc.) however a similar description of the female lead would be nice for the male readers. While, theoretically the picture on the front is supposed to do, some of us prefer the written word and form pictures in our mind. Just saying.
Another good book...fast paced, new threats, and continued goo goo eyes between Brew and Care. I know that the author is female and her writing style tends to favor descriptions of characters that favor the female reader (rippling muscles, etc.) however a similar description of the female lead would be nice for the male readers. While, theoretically the picture on the front is supposed to do, some of us prefer the written word and form pictures in our mind. Just saying.
April 30, 2021
I'm being generous with 3 stars
I had a really hard time with this one. I was already struggling with the first one and it's only gotten worse. Which is disappointing really, cause the story held a lot of promise.
Sadly, the characters thoroughly ruined it for me.
Bree is like a scared little girl playing dress up with an overinflated sense of self/ self-importance.
Cade is a joke and their "romance" gag-worthy.
Mostly I'm pissed off because the term 'Valkyrie' is so misleading.
Won't be continuing this series or this author.
I had a really hard time with this one. I was already struggling with the first one and it's only gotten worse. Which is disappointing really, cause the story held a lot of promise.
Sadly, the characters thoroughly ruined it for me.
Bree is like a scared little girl playing dress up with an overinflated sense of self/ self-importance.
Cade is a joke and their "romance" gag-worthy.
Mostly I'm pissed off because the term 'Valkyrie' is so misleading.
Won't be continuing this series or this author.
December 13, 2017
This series gets better with each book, a bit of Ana and Bree are slowly revealed. With the entire PITS team from the Protectorate trying to locate the source of a dark curse. It takes Ana, Bree and Cade to find the source and fight to protect the Protectorate. Bree's magic is changing and she must learn to control her emerging magic before it kills her. Its a fun paranormal fantasy that most people would enjoy.
December 20, 2017
An Excellent Continuation to the Series
The “Academy Of Magic” is an excellent continuation of the story about Bree and Ana and their determined fight to find a place for themselves in the world and to also find their missing sister. Linsey Hall has again created a fast moving story with interesting and fun characters, a good plot line and a sinister plot that the heroes have to overcome. I would definitely suggest that you read the whole series.
The “Academy Of Magic” is an excellent continuation of the story about Bree and Ana and their determined fight to find a place for themselves in the world and to also find their missing sister. Linsey Hall has again created a fast moving story with interesting and fun characters, a good plot line and a sinister plot that the heroes have to overcome. I would definitely suggest that you read the whole series.
January 1, 2018
Love this world
I love the archeological twist, and the author's description of the real places she used. Bree is still having issues with her magic, and this time gains one and loses one. Cade's interest is heating up, too. Her training isn't going so well, but when sent on a real recon mission she gets the job done. But something or someone is still after her and Ana. Plus, a clue toward their Unknown background.
I love the archeological twist, and the author's description of the real places she used. Bree is still having issues with her magic, and this time gains one and loses one. Cade's interest is heating up, too. Her training isn't going so well, but when sent on a real recon mission she gets the job done. But something or someone is still after her and Ana. Plus, a clue toward their Unknown background.
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