What do you think?
Rate this book
Books of the Kindling #2
Mostly Magic
One terrifying premonition brings them together. Another will threaten their future.
Do dreams come true? Dr. Daniel Woodruff hopes they don’t, because his dreams predict a devastating future for him, for those he loves—and for the planet.
His latest premonition, which blows a huge crater in his eroding sanity, holds a singular horror—the loss of a wife and unborn child. Yet another reason he can let no one into his chaotic life, least of all a perky, persistent investigative reporter he finds simultaneously frustrating and fascinating.
Mel Noblett leaves no stone unturned in her one-woman crusade to save the environment. When a whistleblower in Italy proves too frightened to talk, Mel turns to a fall-back lead, an extremely eccentric, beekeeping professor who might just make the trip worthwhile.
Despite their instant attraction, Mel is relieved when Daniel keeps her at arm’s length. After all, she has a secret of her own—one that makes her preternaturally good at her job. And, when Daniel’s terrifying visions prove cannily accurate and begin to revolve around Mel—it is a gift that could put her life in danger.
Reluctant seer of a bleak future meets petite force of nature who lights up the heart of his darkness. Where there’s smoke, there could be an unpredictable blaze of passion, but the rewards are oh, so sweet…
Mostly Magic is the second book in the Books of the Kindling, a science fantasy romance series that focuses on Woodruff Mountain, the ancient power beneath it, and the family that has hidden its secrets for centuries. It is a story that moves from the magical beauty of Italy’s old city centers to the breathtaking backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains where magic is an elemental part of the folklore. But the magic of this mountain, the magic of the Kindling, is even older and more arcane. It is a story where people who could live in your home town find themselves with abilities they don’t understand and are confronted with a world that desperately needs those gifts. It is a story woven of mystery, humor, drama, and suspense, but most of all, it is a story about love.
(This book was previously published by Samhain Publishing, Ltd in June 2014, electronic publication, and March 2015, print publication, and is now re-released.)
Do dreams come true? Dr. Daniel Woodruff hopes they don’t, because his dreams predict a devastating future for him, for those he loves—and for the planet.
His latest premonition, which blows a huge crater in his eroding sanity, holds a singular horror—the loss of a wife and unborn child. Yet another reason he can let no one into his chaotic life, least of all a perky, persistent investigative reporter he finds simultaneously frustrating and fascinating.
Mel Noblett leaves no stone unturned in her one-woman crusade to save the environment. When a whistleblower in Italy proves too frightened to talk, Mel turns to a fall-back lead, an extremely eccentric, beekeeping professor who might just make the trip worthwhile.
Despite their instant attraction, Mel is relieved when Daniel keeps her at arm’s length. After all, she has a secret of her own—one that makes her preternaturally good at her job. And, when Daniel’s terrifying visions prove cannily accurate and begin to revolve around Mel—it is a gift that could put her life in danger.
Reluctant seer of a bleak future meets petite force of nature who lights up the heart of his darkness. Where there’s smoke, there could be an unpredictable blaze of passion, but the rewards are oh, so sweet…
Mostly Magic is the second book in the Books of the Kindling, a science fantasy romance series that focuses on Woodruff Mountain, the ancient power beneath it, and the family that has hidden its secrets for centuries. It is a story that moves from the magical beauty of Italy’s old city centers to the breathtaking backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains where magic is an elemental part of the folklore. But the magic of this mountain, the magic of the Kindling, is even older and more arcane. It is a story where people who could live in your home town find themselves with abilities they don’t understand and are confronted with a world that desperately needs those gifts. It is a story woven of mystery, humor, drama, and suspense, but most of all, it is a story about love.
(This book was previously published by Samhain Publishing, Ltd in June 2014, electronic publication, and March 2015, print publication, and is now re-released.)
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2014
98 people want to read
About the author
Donna June Cooper
3 books128 followersDONNA JUNE COOPER writes romance - contemporary romance with a small-town feel, a lot of suspense, some laughter, some tears, some fireflies, and a twist of science fiction. Her series, the Books of the Kindling, focuses on Woodruff Mountain, the ancient and incomprehensible power beneath it, and the family that has hidden its secrets for centuries.
The first trilogy (More Than Magic, Mostly Magic, and Making Magic) was originally published by Samhain Publishing and is about to be relaunched with different titles, slightly different covers, and a minimal rewrite. In addition, a second trilogy, continuing the story is in final edits, with covers completed. A third trilogy in the series has already been plotted and planned.
The author is excited to share the continuation of this story with you and even more excited to offer up a prequel novella, free in eBook, to the loyal readers on her newsletter mailing list when the first book in the series is relaunched. You are going to LOVE this prequel!
Just a bit about Donna, when she's not being outpaced by her tiny long-haired Chihuahua on their daily "runs", Donna is reading (three books at once), writing (of course!) or complaining about the heat (no matter the temperature). A child of the Appalachians who was transplanted to Texas by her Italian husband, Donna returns to her mountain roots as often as possible, to Italy whenever possible, and takes us with her in the Books of the Kindling.
Visit Donna at www.donnajunecooper.com.
The first trilogy (More Than Magic, Mostly Magic, and Making Magic) was originally published by Samhain Publishing and is about to be relaunched with different titles, slightly different covers, and a minimal rewrite. In addition, a second trilogy, continuing the story is in final edits, with covers completed. A third trilogy in the series has already been plotted and planned.
The author is excited to share the continuation of this story with you and even more excited to offer up a prequel novella, free in eBook, to the loyal readers on her newsletter mailing list when the first book in the series is relaunched. You are going to LOVE this prequel!
Just a bit about Donna, when she's not being outpaced by her tiny long-haired Chihuahua on their daily "runs", Donna is reading (three books at once), writing (of course!) or complaining about the heat (no matter the temperature). A child of the Appalachians who was transplanted to Texas by her Italian husband, Donna returns to her mountain roots as often as possible, to Italy whenever possible, and takes us with her in the Books of the Kindling.
Visit Donna at www.donnajunecooper.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 12, 2014
4*s
review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Ah, it’s great to be back on Woodruff Mountain……
This time around we head to Italy first and to Mel Noblett, a journalist for all things environmental, a woman determined to shed light on any wrongdoings or environmental impact of pharmaceutical corporations… which is why she is in Italy, after been given a tip off that one of their own will turn over evidence that a certain company is not taking its responsibilities seriously and warning that the impact will be massive. When things don’t go according to plan, Mel heads off to hopefully get an interview from the elusive Daniel Woodruff - brother of Grace from book one and commonly known in his profession as ‘the Bee Whisperer’ – to see if he will hopefully shed some light on the plans to add antibiotics to honey, Mel is confident she can get him to talk….after all, she has a gift.
Daniel Woodruff is having dreams again, bad dreams that rob him of his sight and predict really bad things for the future both personally and environmentally. He knows he needs to head back to Woodruff, Grace is urging him to make peace with his gift and visit the ‘cave’ but to be honest – it’s a curse and he wishes he never had it! Especially now, it’s evolving, he’s having visions through touch that leave him debilitated but determined to stop events happening, if he can save only one person then it’s worth it right? But then he meets her, the one from his dreams, the one in danger, they have an instant connection and he wants her so badly ….. but he knows it can never be, he has to change the future, not just for her but for everyone and if he leads a lesser life because of it…so be it! Daniel thinks he can stop fate, but will his decisions affect the future for better or worse and will his feelings for Mel force him to take that chance and either live a life in love or loneliness?
As I said, it was great to be back in Woodruff but I enjoyed both locations and Florence sounds amazing!
I loved both Mel & Daniel and thought they shared a really good chemistry, it was clear to see that they would make a great couple. Mel had a vivacious character & demeanour and I liked her gift. Daniel came across as guarded which is understandable, but he was leading a half-life, letting his visions lead it, not allowing himself to actually have a life or take risks which is again understandable especially when he finds out the future and needs to stop things from happening and also trying to protect people by giving up his own chance of happiness. This is precisely why Mel and Daniel both do the dance of who will not allow the other to suffer – in different ways of course but with the same outcome and it’s only the interference of the mountain that will guide our two kindred spirits together.
The storyline was just as good as book one, it blends in so well with the overall feel of the series and the magical place that is Woodruff Mountain. One of the things I liked about book one so much is that it brings environmental issues to the attention of a romance reader and I really like this, book one was the effect of running a meth lab and its debris having an effect on the surrounding earth; who knew the impact it would actually have? This time around, it’s Daniels speciality – bees – and through this we are enlightened about how damage could be done through them dying out and also how corporate companies can interfere in a huge way with nature, whether it’s through GM crops or pushing meds into food sources – this is scary stuff and it really makes you wonder just what is going on and what these corporations can actually get away with. We automatically assume that the government will protect us and we won’t have to do anything to prevent these situations but I’m not so sure, I think we all need to heed the lessons on these books. As for the impact on the storyline – well imagine you gain some sensitive knowledge that could do a lot of damage to the reputation and livelihoods of people in powerful positions if leaked, then imagine what they would do to keep that knowledge from the public eye…. Yeah, our lead characters are about to find out but hopefully Daniel will come to terms with his gifts beforehand, before the horrible events that he has predicted unfold and possibly ruin us all. There isn’t as much focus on the mountain magic in this but its effect is felt throughout and there are some really good discoveries about how the mountain and Grandmother Lily expects peopIe to use their gifts. There are also a few startling discoveries that could affect everyone because as we all know – good is also balanced with evil – and just as people with gifts are willing to do good, there are also some willing to use them for their own purposes, which opens up lots of possibilities for future books and adversaries. For all I love Woodruff Mountain, I did appreciated the change of scenery too but when we returned, it was great to see what Grace & Nick have done following the events of book one by helping the land heal and making things right with the buildings. I also love the progression for Jamies’ character and seeing her blossom slightly, I’m expecting big things for that girl and hope one day, she will not only get gifts but also her own HEA. I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel though!
review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Ah, it’s great to be back on Woodruff Mountain……
This time around we head to Italy first and to Mel Noblett, a journalist for all things environmental, a woman determined to shed light on any wrongdoings or environmental impact of pharmaceutical corporations… which is why she is in Italy, after been given a tip off that one of their own will turn over evidence that a certain company is not taking its responsibilities seriously and warning that the impact will be massive. When things don’t go according to plan, Mel heads off to hopefully get an interview from the elusive Daniel Woodruff - brother of Grace from book one and commonly known in his profession as ‘the Bee Whisperer’ – to see if he will hopefully shed some light on the plans to add antibiotics to honey, Mel is confident she can get him to talk….after all, she has a gift.
Daniel Woodruff is having dreams again, bad dreams that rob him of his sight and predict really bad things for the future both personally and environmentally. He knows he needs to head back to Woodruff, Grace is urging him to make peace with his gift and visit the ‘cave’ but to be honest – it’s a curse and he wishes he never had it! Especially now, it’s evolving, he’s having visions through touch that leave him debilitated but determined to stop events happening, if he can save only one person then it’s worth it right? But then he meets her, the one from his dreams, the one in danger, they have an instant connection and he wants her so badly ….. but he knows it can never be, he has to change the future, not just for her but for everyone and if he leads a lesser life because of it…so be it! Daniel thinks he can stop fate, but will his decisions affect the future for better or worse and will his feelings for Mel force him to take that chance and either live a life in love or loneliness?
As I said, it was great to be back in Woodruff but I enjoyed both locations and Florence sounds amazing!
I loved both Mel & Daniel and thought they shared a really good chemistry, it was clear to see that they would make a great couple. Mel had a vivacious character & demeanour and I liked her gift. Daniel came across as guarded which is understandable, but he was leading a half-life, letting his visions lead it, not allowing himself to actually have a life or take risks which is again understandable especially when he finds out the future and needs to stop things from happening and also trying to protect people by giving up his own chance of happiness. This is precisely why Mel and Daniel both do the dance of who will not allow the other to suffer – in different ways of course but with the same outcome and it’s only the interference of the mountain that will guide our two kindred spirits together.
The storyline was just as good as book one, it blends in so well with the overall feel of the series and the magical place that is Woodruff Mountain. One of the things I liked about book one so much is that it brings environmental issues to the attention of a romance reader and I really like this, book one was the effect of running a meth lab and its debris having an effect on the surrounding earth; who knew the impact it would actually have? This time around, it’s Daniels speciality – bees – and through this we are enlightened about how damage could be done through them dying out and also how corporate companies can interfere in a huge way with nature, whether it’s through GM crops or pushing meds into food sources – this is scary stuff and it really makes you wonder just what is going on and what these corporations can actually get away with. We automatically assume that the government will protect us and we won’t have to do anything to prevent these situations but I’m not so sure, I think we all need to heed the lessons on these books. As for the impact on the storyline – well imagine you gain some sensitive knowledge that could do a lot of damage to the reputation and livelihoods of people in powerful positions if leaked, then imagine what they would do to keep that knowledge from the public eye…. Yeah, our lead characters are about to find out but hopefully Daniel will come to terms with his gifts beforehand, before the horrible events that he has predicted unfold and possibly ruin us all. There isn’t as much focus on the mountain magic in this but its effect is felt throughout and there are some really good discoveries about how the mountain and Grandmother Lily expects peopIe to use their gifts. There are also a few startling discoveries that could affect everyone because as we all know – good is also balanced with evil – and just as people with gifts are willing to do good, there are also some willing to use them for their own purposes, which opens up lots of possibilities for future books and adversaries. For all I love Woodruff Mountain, I did appreciated the change of scenery too but when we returned, it was great to see what Grace & Nick have done following the events of book one by helping the land heal and making things right with the buildings. I also love the progression for Jamies’ character and seeing her blossom slightly, I’m expecting big things for that girl and hope one day, she will not only get gifts but also her own HEA. I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel though!
November 1, 2019
This series is so... I'm going to say a gross word; forgive me... swoony.
I know, I'm sorry.
But it is.
So goddamn swoony.
And not just because of the squishy romance.
(Which is lovely by the way. Authors really need to stop writing just shy of perfect heroes because my expectations are completely shot to hell at this point)
Or the elemental, earthy magic Donna June Cooper's cooked up for the inhabitants of Woodruff Mountain.
No, it actually gains its true swooniness from the way she writes about nature and the environment we're rapidly destroying just by being us.
And before you start thinking this is some sneaky way of forcing fantasy lovers to eat their eco-aware vegetables, it's not.
It's really not.
Well, maybe a little bit.
But it's more an ode to the planet we're privileged to exist on and why we should, and need, to do better by it.
That's not news.
We all know it.
And if we forget, we've got Greta Thunberg to set us right.
...
She makes me need to plant trees.
So many trees.
Cooper has the same effect.
Yes, it's bundled up within an engaging, softer than soft tale of love, self sacrifice and adventure, but it's steadfastly there.
Unavoidably so when this entry in the series concerns Apis Mellifera, honeybees.
The idea that if all the bees were rendered extinct, civilisation as we know it would collapse is somewhat hyperbolic.
We'd still have food but because many of our crops are pollinated by insects the variety of food would be greatly diminished, and what remained would go up in value, which would have a knock on effect to our economy, which impacts our health, housing, etc., and so on, are we all completely screwed?, ad infinitum.
It matters what happens to the honeybee.
It matters how we live.
And Mostly Magic is a gentle reminder of that.
It's not slapping you in the face with our collective planetary inadequacies but simply reminding us we're fucking this up.
Really fucking it up.
But we can do better.
We kind of have to.
This came up in my Twitter feed just after I finished it, and it feels rather apt:
Anddddd... if you don't give a flying fuck about environmental issues, or just not reading about them when you're trying to escape the disaster palace that is our watery ball of chaos, then Mostly Magic stands up as a ridiculously enjoyable Fantasy read with smart, lovable characters, vivid descriptive landscapes, a somatic dose of magic, and a HEA.
...
What more could you ask for?
I know, I'm sorry.
But it is.
So goddamn swoony.
And not just because of the squishy romance.
(Which is lovely by the way. Authors really need to stop writing just shy of perfect heroes because my expectations are completely shot to hell at this point)
Or the elemental, earthy magic Donna June Cooper's cooked up for the inhabitants of Woodruff Mountain.
No, it actually gains its true swooniness from the way she writes about nature and the environment we're rapidly destroying just by being us.
And before you start thinking this is some sneaky way of forcing fantasy lovers to eat their eco-aware vegetables, it's not.
It's really not.
Well, maybe a little bit.
But it's more an ode to the planet we're privileged to exist on and why we should, and need, to do better by it.
That's not news.
We all know it.
And if we forget, we've got Greta Thunberg to set us right.
...
She makes me need to plant trees.
So many trees.
Cooper has the same effect.
Yes, it's bundled up within an engaging, softer than soft tale of love, self sacrifice and adventure, but it's steadfastly there.
Unavoidably so when this entry in the series concerns Apis Mellifera, honeybees.
The idea that if all the bees were rendered extinct, civilisation as we know it would collapse is somewhat hyperbolic.
We'd still have food but because many of our crops are pollinated by insects the variety of food would be greatly diminished, and what remained would go up in value, which would have a knock on effect to our economy, which impacts our health, housing, etc., and so on, are we all completely screwed?, ad infinitum.
It matters what happens to the honeybee.
It matters how we live.
And Mostly Magic is a gentle reminder of that.
It's not slapping you in the face with our collective planetary inadequacies but simply reminding us we're fucking this up.
Really fucking it up.
But we can do better.
We kind of have to.
This came up in my Twitter feed just after I finished it, and it feels rather apt:
Just to be clear we all realize 20 million trees won’t fix climate change. But at the end of the day 20 million more trees is better then 0! We want to take action because doing nothing is how we got here!
— MrBeast (@MrBeastYT) October 27, 2019
Anddddd... if you don't give a flying fuck about environmental issues, or just not reading about them when you're trying to escape the disaster palace that is our watery ball of chaos, then Mostly Magic stands up as a ridiculously enjoyable Fantasy read with smart, lovable characters, vivid descriptive landscapes, a somatic dose of magic, and a HEA.
...
What more could you ask for?
December 11, 2014
Bees, fireflies, a beautiful mountain, and a trip through Italy are all parts of the magic of Donna June Cooper’s Mostly Magic, the second book in her Kindling series. Is it possible that old beliefs, mysteries and secrets on the mountain will have a reach far across the globe, as evil and the future become intermingled in the dreams of Dr. Daniel Woodruff? Are they premonitions of love, loss and grief? Little did he know that a tenacious reporter would enter his life and uncover feelings he needs to keep buried deep within. Mel Noblett is a fiery and dedicated environmental investigative reporter and the news of millions of bees dying or disappearing is big news in the world of ecology. Together these two attempt to uncover the dark truth behind this unusual and possibly devastating event. As time goes on, is there another story unfolding between Dan and Mel? Is romance in the air or will personal decisions keep them apart as the environment threatens to become hugely unbalanced? Will the mountain and the ancient stories it tells warn the right people of future doom or will it be too late?
I have to hand it to Donna June Cooper, she stacks layer upon layer of subplots, seasons them just right and serves up a wonderfully detailed and vivid tale of romance, threaded with folklore and environmental issues that can be terribly devastating. Only an author with great talent, imagination and a strong gift for storytelling could make a wonder read out of such an eclectic batch of themes. Another strong tale from Ms. Cooper.
I received this copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Books of the Kindling - Book 2
Publication Date: June 3, 2014
Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Print Length: 352 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
I have to hand it to Donna June Cooper, she stacks layer upon layer of subplots, seasons them just right and serves up a wonderfully detailed and vivid tale of romance, threaded with folklore and environmental issues that can be terribly devastating. Only an author with great talent, imagination and a strong gift for storytelling could make a wonder read out of such an eclectic batch of themes. Another strong tale from Ms. Cooper.
I received this copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Books of the Kindling - Book 2
Publication Date: June 3, 2014
Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Print Length: 352 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
March 27, 2015
I enjoyed More than Magic, but I found this second book in this series to be a much more assured piece of writing. I thought the plot was more plausible than that of the first book and while I don’t usually enjoy 'messages' in novels, the environmental theme here is part and parcel of a really engaging story with central characters I really warmed to.
Looking forward to reading the next one!
Looking forward to reading the next one!
May 27, 2014
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
I read the first book in this series last week. I liked it, didn’t love it, wasn’t blown away by it. It was a sweet love story with a little magical twist to it. This book is a whole different story. I loved this one. I’ll go into why shortly, but I was hooked from the beginning and enjoyed every minute of the book. If my time had not been broken up this week, by work and a vacation this would have been a two-day read at most for me.
So why was this one so much better than the first. Well that is probably the main reason, the last one was this authors first book. In Mostly Magic you can feel that Ms. Cooper has really begun to find her voice. Her writing, while good in bk 1, blossoms in this story. It is almost like she is more comfortable in the tale she is telling, more confident. I expect her future additions to this series will just continue to get better and better. She does a excellent job of weaving the story and the action is spread out more in book 2. The romance is still more sweet than steamy, but I think it works for this story and its characters. The story is also still pretty light on the paranormal, but I can tell the author is getting bolder and I can’t wait to see how she mixes things up in the next book. I hope there is going to be a next book, as of this post there isn’t one listed on Goodreads, but as this book isn’t yet released I’m not too worried. It also is a better book to me in that I am getting to know the world more; its characters and message.
What about this book did I enjoy? Plenty! I am really digging the environmental message and lessons that the author is mixing into the story. Last book was about herbal medicine, this one bees. I learned a lot and didn’t feel like I was getting a school lesson in the process. The author wove the information into the story and used it to help move along the plot in a delightful way. I also enjoyed that some of this story takes place off mountain. Now I do enjoy the parts on-mountain and the beautiful descriptions of life there, but it was so much fun to visit Italy! It is a country my husband and I have always wanted to visit, but have yet to do so. The descriptions of and action in Florence were particularly well done. It made me add the city to my must see list. Well this book and Dan Brown’s Inferno….
There isn’t much that I didn’t like about the book. There was a little bit of the lead male, Daniel, didn’t like himself, or rather his gift. This usually annoys me in a story and will often be a reason I stop a book. The way it is handled in this story is not too bad. It was needed for character growth and in the end Daniel comes around. It helped the plot more than hindered it in this story. That is more a personal taste of mine then a default of any story though. I just don’t care to be in character’s heads that don’t like themselves.
One message from the book really resonated with me, as it is something I have often struggled with. I’m going to share a line from the book, but I don’t think it is going to give anything away. But still spoiler alert, for those of you who are picky… Daniel says to Mel near the end “Falling in Love with someone means you sign up for pain.” This is so true! You can not have love without pain or loss. But if you don’t open yourself up to the potential of that pain then you are going to be denying yourself something so precious and wonderful all for your fear of feeling loss. You have to let love in and risk being burned. If not what is the point? You will not be living life to the fullest if you don’t take the risk. And when or if that love leaves you, be it death or other it was still worth it in the end. Perhaps this is why I enjoyed this book so much more than the first. I can identify with Daniel. I can appreciate his thinking and struggles. I get him more than I got Grace or Nick.
Lets see what else. I liked Mel, she was feisty and a lot of fun. Her family was a hoot and I loved her gift. I think she was a perfect match for Daniel. The ending was also beautiful. Brought me to tears, in a good way, happy tears. The book was a fun ride and I am looking forward to seeing what happens next in the world. The author has begun to weave a complex plot that has me hoping that everything works out in the end, for the story and our real world as well. It made me think about the way I lead my own life and the environment in which I live. I hope you give this series a shot. I would suggest starting with book one, you could read this one alone, but I think it will make more sense if you start at the beginning.
I read the first book in this series last week. I liked it, didn’t love it, wasn’t blown away by it. It was a sweet love story with a little magical twist to it. This book is a whole different story. I loved this one. I’ll go into why shortly, but I was hooked from the beginning and enjoyed every minute of the book. If my time had not been broken up this week, by work and a vacation this would have been a two-day read at most for me.
So why was this one so much better than the first. Well that is probably the main reason, the last one was this authors first book. In Mostly Magic you can feel that Ms. Cooper has really begun to find her voice. Her writing, while good in bk 1, blossoms in this story. It is almost like she is more comfortable in the tale she is telling, more confident. I expect her future additions to this series will just continue to get better and better. She does a excellent job of weaving the story and the action is spread out more in book 2. The romance is still more sweet than steamy, but I think it works for this story and its characters. The story is also still pretty light on the paranormal, but I can tell the author is getting bolder and I can’t wait to see how she mixes things up in the next book. I hope there is going to be a next book, as of this post there isn’t one listed on Goodreads, but as this book isn’t yet released I’m not too worried. It also is a better book to me in that I am getting to know the world more; its characters and message.
What about this book did I enjoy? Plenty! I am really digging the environmental message and lessons that the author is mixing into the story. Last book was about herbal medicine, this one bees. I learned a lot and didn’t feel like I was getting a school lesson in the process. The author wove the information into the story and used it to help move along the plot in a delightful way. I also enjoyed that some of this story takes place off mountain. Now I do enjoy the parts on-mountain and the beautiful descriptions of life there, but it was so much fun to visit Italy! It is a country my husband and I have always wanted to visit, but have yet to do so. The descriptions of and action in Florence were particularly well done. It made me add the city to my must see list. Well this book and Dan Brown’s Inferno….
There isn’t much that I didn’t like about the book. There was a little bit of the lead male, Daniel, didn’t like himself, or rather his gift. This usually annoys me in a story and will often be a reason I stop a book. The way it is handled in this story is not too bad. It was needed for character growth and in the end Daniel comes around. It helped the plot more than hindered it in this story. That is more a personal taste of mine then a default of any story though. I just don’t care to be in character’s heads that don’t like themselves.
One message from the book really resonated with me, as it is something I have often struggled with. I’m going to share a line from the book, but I don’t think it is going to give anything away. But still spoiler alert, for those of you who are picky… Daniel says to Mel near the end “Falling in Love with someone means you sign up for pain.” This is so true! You can not have love without pain or loss. But if you don’t open yourself up to the potential of that pain then you are going to be denying yourself something so precious and wonderful all for your fear of feeling loss. You have to let love in and risk being burned. If not what is the point? You will not be living life to the fullest if you don’t take the risk. And when or if that love leaves you, be it death or other it was still worth it in the end. Perhaps this is why I enjoyed this book so much more than the first. I can identify with Daniel. I can appreciate his thinking and struggles. I get him more than I got Grace or Nick.
Lets see what else. I liked Mel, she was feisty and a lot of fun. Her family was a hoot and I loved her gift. I think she was a perfect match for Daniel. The ending was also beautiful. Brought me to tears, in a good way, happy tears. The book was a fun ride and I am looking forward to seeing what happens next in the world. The author has begun to weave a complex plot that has me hoping that everything works out in the end, for the story and our real world as well. It made me think about the way I lead my own life and the environment in which I live. I hope you give this series a shot. I would suggest starting with book one, you could read this one alone, but I think it will make more sense if you start at the beginning.
June 8, 2014
I am really really loving this series.
I love the characters struggling to come to terms with their magic in a world where no one believes magic is real.
Daniel's journey in this book - learning that you can't hold out for perfection, for a life of guaranteed happiness 24/7, because you have to work for REAL happiness... anything else is just a fantasy - is a great one to ride along on. It's one that has meaning for me, probably for everyone. It is easy to see the downside to every risk. It is hard to decide that the reward is worth the payment. And that's what Daniel has to learn to do.
Mel is such a great, strong character. To hang on to such a radiantly happy personality when she's constantly bombarded by the turbulent emotions of the world... She and Daniel are perfect for each other, because they've both got to find a way to stay happy despite constantly being shown such ugliness.
There are overt themes of environmental protection in this series. And you know what? I love it. I don't think the book does it in a preachy way, but rather in a loving, nurturing way - we should be caretakers for this amazing planet, which has cradled us and nurtured us for eons. So far, we haven't met any caricatured, mustache-twirling villains. Just ordinary human beings that are dealing with the same choices we deal with in the real world: profit now versus long-term consequences. We as a society fail (generally) at taking the long view on things. We're paying for it now. If we don't start to do better, it will get worse and worse. But that's a tangent, sorry. The book doesn't bash you in the face with these thoughts, but they are the backdrop. Trying to find a better way, a middle way, where we can be happy and successful without dire long-term consequences.
And then finally, the ending, which goes behind spoiler tags (though it isn't TOO spoilery, but I did think it changed the texture of the series, so I'm hiding it) ... *squee*
I love the characters struggling to come to terms with their magic in a world where no one believes magic is real.
Daniel's journey in this book - learning that you can't hold out for perfection, for a life of guaranteed happiness 24/7, because you have to work for REAL happiness... anything else is just a fantasy - is a great one to ride along on. It's one that has meaning for me, probably for everyone. It is easy to see the downside to every risk. It is hard to decide that the reward is worth the payment. And that's what Daniel has to learn to do.
Mel is such a great, strong character. To hang on to such a radiantly happy personality when she's constantly bombarded by the turbulent emotions of the world... She and Daniel are perfect for each other, because they've both got to find a way to stay happy despite constantly being shown such ugliness.
There are overt themes of environmental protection in this series. And you know what? I love it. I don't think the book does it in a preachy way, but rather in a loving, nurturing way - we should be caretakers for this amazing planet, which has cradled us and nurtured us for eons. So far, we haven't met any caricatured, mustache-twirling villains. Just ordinary human beings that are dealing with the same choices we deal with in the real world: profit now versus long-term consequences. We as a society fail (generally) at taking the long view on things. We're paying for it now. If we don't start to do better, it will get worse and worse. But that's a tangent, sorry. The book doesn't bash you in the face with these thoughts, but they are the backdrop. Trying to find a better way, a middle way, where we can be happy and successful without dire long-term consequences.
And then finally, the ending, which goes behind spoiler tags (though it isn't TOO spoilery, but I did think it changed the texture of the series, so I'm hiding it) ... *squee*
November 12, 2014
See my full review at my blog - Sharon's Book Nook!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Once again Donna June Cooper has written a beautiful book that is so wonderfully romantic that it had me swooning. swoon
This time around we meet Grace’s brother Daniel and boy is he yummy. He’s not perfect but he has gifts and a nature that proves he’s a decent man who is fiercely protective of the people he cares about, as well as the environment. I found myself cheering this character on, as he was always having visions with very disastrous endings and I was hoping that he’d find his happy ending.
Mel, once thought of by Daniel as a ‘typical reporter’ has a secret of her own and she’s does not refer to herself as a reporter, she’s a ‘writer’ and is just as passionate about the environment as Daniel. I really liked this character and felt as though I could relate to her in many ways.
The pace of the book is not as fast as I expected and there were a couple of times where it took me a moment to realise that we were witnessing a vision that Daniel was having. Besides this there is always an interesting development appearing or a little drama and ‘mostly magic’.
The author has used wonderful imagery once again and it made me feel like I was there looking at these sights and immersed inside the visions that Daniel has.
The ending is gorgeous and yes of course it’s a happy one and we feel that these characters will be OK.
Overall, a beautiful read once again and I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a little bit of magic and a wonderful romance.
4 stars!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Once again Donna June Cooper has written a beautiful book that is so wonderfully romantic that it had me swooning. swoon
This time around we meet Grace’s brother Daniel and boy is he yummy. He’s not perfect but he has gifts and a nature that proves he’s a decent man who is fiercely protective of the people he cares about, as well as the environment. I found myself cheering this character on, as he was always having visions with very disastrous endings and I was hoping that he’d find his happy ending.
Mel, once thought of by Daniel as a ‘typical reporter’ has a secret of her own and she’s does not refer to herself as a reporter, she’s a ‘writer’ and is just as passionate about the environment as Daniel. I really liked this character and felt as though I could relate to her in many ways.
The pace of the book is not as fast as I expected and there were a couple of times where it took me a moment to realise that we were witnessing a vision that Daniel was having. Besides this there is always an interesting development appearing or a little drama and ‘mostly magic’.
The author has used wonderful imagery once again and it made me feel like I was there looking at these sights and immersed inside the visions that Daniel has.
The ending is gorgeous and yes of course it’s a happy one and we feel that these characters will be OK.
Overall, a beautiful read once again and I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a little bit of magic and a wonderful romance.
4 stars!
May 31, 2014
Make that 5+ Stars!!
Donna June Cooper has done it again. More than Magic captured my heart and my imagination when I reviewed a few months ago, and now the second in the Books of the Kindling series, Mostly Magic, meets the very high bar this author sets for herself. O, how I would love to find this very special mountain and spend time with the folks who know it best.
This story picks up with sibling #2, Dr. Daniel Woodruff, only months after the close of MtM. We find ourselves in Italy, which is never a bad thing, but terrifying visions are unrelenting, and Daniel must risk his reputation, and perhaps his life, in order to ensure the safety of those around him.
Mel Noblett is an environmental reporter who senses there is more to Daniel’s bizarre behavior than a personality quirk, and together they must find out why he is having these visions, and what, if anything, they can do to alter their outcome.
Once again, the story captivates with lyric beauty, humor, tension, mystery and love – of family, of friendship, of life, and of the environment. And may I say ~ Long Live the Bees! Very well done
Donna June Cooper has done it again. More than Magic captured my heart and my imagination when I reviewed a few months ago, and now the second in the Books of the Kindling series, Mostly Magic, meets the very high bar this author sets for herself. O, how I would love to find this very special mountain and spend time with the folks who know it best.
This story picks up with sibling #2, Dr. Daniel Woodruff, only months after the close of MtM. We find ourselves in Italy, which is never a bad thing, but terrifying visions are unrelenting, and Daniel must risk his reputation, and perhaps his life, in order to ensure the safety of those around him.
Mel Noblett is an environmental reporter who senses there is more to Daniel’s bizarre behavior than a personality quirk, and together they must find out why he is having these visions, and what, if anything, they can do to alter their outcome.
Once again, the story captivates with lyric beauty, humor, tension, mystery and love – of family, of friendship, of life, and of the environment. And may I say ~ Long Live the Bees! Very well done
April 8, 2014
"Mostly Magic" is the second in the Books of the Kindling series. The characters we met in the first book, "More Than Magic", are back, and we get to know Grace’s brother Daniel, a college professor and “bee-whisperer”, much better, along with Melissa (Mel), a writer for a magazine that focuses on environmental issues. As in that first enchanting story, there is magic, love, and some very shady, and indeed criminal, behavior, this time of the corporate kind. The scene shifts from Italy, to the Appalachian Mountains, to Florida, Texas, back to the Appalachians, and then finally back to Florence, where it all began. We get swept along with the fast tempo of the story, and you may need to stay up all night to finish it. These 2 books are some of the best I’ve read this year, and I highly recommend them both.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
August 12, 2014
The 2nd book in this series is just as exciting as Mostly Magic.. In this book we are introduced to a new character Mel. and Dr. Daniel Woodruff is traveling to Italy. Each stop in Italy is described so clear that my imagination takes me there and I feel as if I'm standing right there with my new friends. (I've added a trip to Italy to my personal bucket list.) Dr. Daniel's pain and urgency to return to Woodruff Mountain and the chase to help Mel leaves me breathless.. A great read... I will recommend to everyone..
January 4, 2015
I was up until 4 am finishing this book. I just couldn't stop reading it. The story is loaded with suspense. I loved seeing the storyline unfold even further. The characters interact so well together. I just can't get enough of this series. I am so excited to see where the story continues with book 3. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review, which in no way influenced my opinion of this book. I how you find it as fascinating as I have.
December 1, 2014
A really fantastic story that expands on the first (More Than Magic) and introduces the reader to some great new characters. A very enjoyable read.
January 16, 2015
In Mostly Magic (Books of The Kindling #2) by Donna June Cooper, I lost myself in magic, legends, fear, and the earth. Donna really pulled me in and kept me enchanted all through out Mostly Magic.
Dr. Daniel Woodruff is a beekeeper, an expert on bees. He dreams...but not like other people. His dreams are terrifying and they predict future events. His most recent dreams are no longer just happening when he's asleep, but awake also...and they leave him lost for a little while. The recent ones also have him convinced he can never allow a woman to get close to him. Ever. In Italy for a conference, he is ready to head home to Woodruff Mountain sooner rather than later.
Mel is also in Italy. A freelance journalist, she is following a strong lead that goes no where. She is a strong supporter of environmental issues, so when she finds out Daniel is also in Italy, she is determined to interview him about an issue and company that is doing something that could have disastrous results. Daniel wants no part of an interview with anyone...he has enough going on right now. But he ends up needing help, and Mel is the one to give it. As they chase his dreams, which he keeps secret, Mel also has secrets...and the issue they end up working together to out suddenly becomes very dangerous for them.
There is a definite attraction between them, but Daniel is still determined nothing can ever come of it. When Mel ends up taking refuge at Woodruff Mountain with him it gets harder and harder to resist the pull between them. Daniel still dreams though, and he is scared, not trusting himself, and not sure what he can do about the dreams he's having. His sister Grace (from book one) does her best to help Daniel accept his 'gift', and find out how it can work for him. Daniel still fears the future though, and any future with Mel is on shaky ground until he can be comfortable with his gift and what it means. As Daniel is working through this there is still danger lurking, creeping closer to him and Mel. When secrets finally are revealed, can they help each other and be safe again, together? Or is it too late?
Donna really wowed me with Mostly Magic! I loved it. It was fast paced, engaging, and I couldn't put it down. She pulled me in with the characters and the different things going on in their lives, had my heart racing at times and hoping at times. I loved both Mel and Daniel. Mel is so fun, smart, and light a bright sun beam lighting up not only Daniel's life but the pages of Mostly Magic. She is a determined woman, but at the same time she is a journalist who also respect boundaries, and I loved that about her. She did have her secrets too, and I felt that she handled everything well given the circumstances...knowing what to do and when. Daniel is scared and exhausted. I really felt for him and what he was going through, he was so confused at times. I really liked how Donna incorporated his dreams into the plot line, so at times at first I was sure it was really happening. I liked how she did this because this is how Daniel is experiencing things, so she gave us a great look at Daniel's perspective this way. Together I felt that Mel and Daniel could be great, if he can only come to terms with everything and open himself up, take the chance. All the little 'coincidences' looked like fate to me.
I loved the different setting Donna wrote about in Mostly Magic, from Italy back to Woodruff Mountain. This made Mostly Magic stand strongly on it's own and kept things lively. I would recommend reading More Than Magic first, but my feeling is that if you read Mostly Magic alone you would sink in easily to this world.
Donna gives realistic descriptions of people, places, and events. The supernatural aspect of Mostly Magic is a plausible one, because you just never know! All of this combined with the great flow, suspense and danger made Mostly Magic a 5 star read for me that I'd recommend to any romance reader who likes a good mix of paranormal and suspense.
Dr. Daniel Woodruff is a beekeeper, an expert on bees. He dreams...but not like other people. His dreams are terrifying and they predict future events. His most recent dreams are no longer just happening when he's asleep, but awake also...and they leave him lost for a little while. The recent ones also have him convinced he can never allow a woman to get close to him. Ever. In Italy for a conference, he is ready to head home to Woodruff Mountain sooner rather than later.
Mel is also in Italy. A freelance journalist, she is following a strong lead that goes no where. She is a strong supporter of environmental issues, so when she finds out Daniel is also in Italy, she is determined to interview him about an issue and company that is doing something that could have disastrous results. Daniel wants no part of an interview with anyone...he has enough going on right now. But he ends up needing help, and Mel is the one to give it. As they chase his dreams, which he keeps secret, Mel also has secrets...and the issue they end up working together to out suddenly becomes very dangerous for them.
There is a definite attraction between them, but Daniel is still determined nothing can ever come of it. When Mel ends up taking refuge at Woodruff Mountain with him it gets harder and harder to resist the pull between them. Daniel still dreams though, and he is scared, not trusting himself, and not sure what he can do about the dreams he's having. His sister Grace (from book one) does her best to help Daniel accept his 'gift', and find out how it can work for him. Daniel still fears the future though, and any future with Mel is on shaky ground until he can be comfortable with his gift and what it means. As Daniel is working through this there is still danger lurking, creeping closer to him and Mel. When secrets finally are revealed, can they help each other and be safe again, together? Or is it too late?
Donna really wowed me with Mostly Magic! I loved it. It was fast paced, engaging, and I couldn't put it down. She pulled me in with the characters and the different things going on in their lives, had my heart racing at times and hoping at times. I loved both Mel and Daniel. Mel is so fun, smart, and light a bright sun beam lighting up not only Daniel's life but the pages of Mostly Magic. She is a determined woman, but at the same time she is a journalist who also respect boundaries, and I loved that about her. She did have her secrets too, and I felt that she handled everything well given the circumstances...knowing what to do and when. Daniel is scared and exhausted. I really felt for him and what he was going through, he was so confused at times. I really liked how Donna incorporated his dreams into the plot line, so at times at first I was sure it was really happening. I liked how she did this because this is how Daniel is experiencing things, so she gave us a great look at Daniel's perspective this way. Together I felt that Mel and Daniel could be great, if he can only come to terms with everything and open himself up, take the chance. All the little 'coincidences' looked like fate to me.
I loved the different setting Donna wrote about in Mostly Magic, from Italy back to Woodruff Mountain. This made Mostly Magic stand strongly on it's own and kept things lively. I would recommend reading More Than Magic first, but my feeling is that if you read Mostly Magic alone you would sink in easily to this world.
Donna gives realistic descriptions of people, places, and events. The supernatural aspect of Mostly Magic is a plausible one, because you just never know! All of this combined with the great flow, suspense and danger made Mostly Magic a 5 star read for me that I'd recommend to any romance reader who likes a good mix of paranormal and suspense.
January 21, 2015
http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2015/01/b...
Mostly Magic by Donna June Cooper is the second installment in the Books of the Kindling series and just like the first book, More Than Magic, this book also leaves the reader thoroughly entertained and eager to read the next book in the series.
The cover is beautiful and intriguing and the blurb interesting which will surely attract the attention of new readers towards this book.
I had absolutely loved the first book and didn't think I could fall more in love but this book proved me wrong. Mostly Magic is even better than the first book. So much is happening in this story that the reader is always kept at the edge of his seat and thrown from one adventure to another. There is mystery, seers who see the future, tele-empaths, a danger that threatens the world and a love story that we root for but also know the dangers that threaten the love birds if they pursue it.
Daniel who had made an appearance in the first book, takes center stage in this one. Just like his sister, Grace, he is also struggling with his gift which leaves him dreading human contact. He dreams of unhappy endings which generally relate to him or his loved ones but his power is increasing and changing which has him scared. Convinced that he can never risk giving his heart to anyone, Daniel is totally unprepared for the attraction he feels for the feisty, pixie like reporter Mel Noblett who is after him for an interview. But Mel is also hiding some secrets and knows that she cant afford to be honest with anyone let alone the Doctor with his kind but sometimes haunted eyes.
I loved Daniel and Mel and rooted for a happily-ever-after for them. They face so many ups and downs in their relationship and are tested at every turn which made me feel more confident that they were really meant for each other. Donna creates a very complex story with many layers to it. So much is happening here. There is the unresolved issue of Daniel's gift which has proved only a nuisance to him, the dreams that haunt him and Granny Lily's constant appearance urging him to accept his gift. Then the mysterious ailment afflicting the bees threatens the health of people and also threatens Daniel's safety if he goes against the corporation that, he feels, is making the bees sick with its research but buying off doctors to speak in its favour. Then there is danger following Mel and no clue why someone is targeting her!
Grace, Nick, Ouida, Jamie, Pooka and the mountain play an important role in this book too and it was great to meet them again. This series has captured my attention and I love the whole concept with its touch of magic. Kudos to Donna for bring such a new concept to light. The descriptions of places and events are vivid and take the reader on a ride to Donna's magical world. I am now ready buy a ticket to visit the Woodruff mountain! :)
All in all, Mostly Magic is even better than the already awesome first book and strongly recommended by me to all readers. 5 on 5 to it. I am eager to start on the next book and have my fingers crossed. I hope I like the next book as much as I liked these first two books.
Go buy and read these books. They are not to be missed! :)
I received the book from the author and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Mostly Magic by Donna June Cooper is the second installment in the Books of the Kindling series and just like the first book, More Than Magic, this book also leaves the reader thoroughly entertained and eager to read the next book in the series.
The cover is beautiful and intriguing and the blurb interesting which will surely attract the attention of new readers towards this book.
I had absolutely loved the first book and didn't think I could fall more in love but this book proved me wrong. Mostly Magic is even better than the first book. So much is happening in this story that the reader is always kept at the edge of his seat and thrown from one adventure to another. There is mystery, seers who see the future, tele-empaths, a danger that threatens the world and a love story that we root for but also know the dangers that threaten the love birds if they pursue it.
Daniel who had made an appearance in the first book, takes center stage in this one. Just like his sister, Grace, he is also struggling with his gift which leaves him dreading human contact. He dreams of unhappy endings which generally relate to him or his loved ones but his power is increasing and changing which has him scared. Convinced that he can never risk giving his heart to anyone, Daniel is totally unprepared for the attraction he feels for the feisty, pixie like reporter Mel Noblett who is after him for an interview. But Mel is also hiding some secrets and knows that she cant afford to be honest with anyone let alone the Doctor with his kind but sometimes haunted eyes.
I loved Daniel and Mel and rooted for a happily-ever-after for them. They face so many ups and downs in their relationship and are tested at every turn which made me feel more confident that they were really meant for each other. Donna creates a very complex story with many layers to it. So much is happening here. There is the unresolved issue of Daniel's gift which has proved only a nuisance to him, the dreams that haunt him and Granny Lily's constant appearance urging him to accept his gift. Then the mysterious ailment afflicting the bees threatens the health of people and also threatens Daniel's safety if he goes against the corporation that, he feels, is making the bees sick with its research but buying off doctors to speak in its favour. Then there is danger following Mel and no clue why someone is targeting her!
Grace, Nick, Ouida, Jamie, Pooka and the mountain play an important role in this book too and it was great to meet them again. This series has captured my attention and I love the whole concept with its touch of magic. Kudos to Donna for bring such a new concept to light. The descriptions of places and events are vivid and take the reader on a ride to Donna's magical world. I am now ready buy a ticket to visit the Woodruff mountain! :)
All in all, Mostly Magic is even better than the already awesome first book and strongly recommended by me to all readers. 5 on 5 to it. I am eager to start on the next book and have my fingers crossed. I hope I like the next book as much as I liked these first two books.
Go buy and read these books. They are not to be missed! :)
I received the book from the author and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
January 27, 2016
Mostly Magic Review
Author Donna June Cooper skillfully weaves an environmental theme throughout her stories which makes you stop and think about what humans have done and are doing to slowly destroy the earth on which they depend. This book focuses on what’s happened to the honeybee population, something that has been newsworthy for the past several years. And fireflies? What happened to them?
When Daniel Woodruff, scientist and “bee whisperer” crosses paths with environmental reporter Mel Noblett something magical happens. Both Daniel and Mel possess gifts that allow them to see the future or feel the emotions of others. Their abilities cause them emotional and sometimes physical pain but can also be advantageous and useful in certain circumstances. But it isn’t easy knowing what someone else feels and not knowing the reason why, nor is it easy seeing the potentially bad things that may happen in the future. The character of Daniel especially shows growth as he learns to control his abilities and use them to change the outcome of a situation.
There is something very compelling about Ms. Cooper’s storytelling ability because not only do you want to know how her characters are going to use their gifts, but also how and if these two will ever get together. She never rushes the pace, but allows the story to unfold naturally in a way that seems right for the characters after all they’ve been through together.
I read the first book in the series, More Than Magic, and the same things I enjoyed about that book are present in this one. The Woodruff family element comes into play once again and the special magic that is Woodruff Mountain. It’s always fun to revisit characters such as Grace and Nick and see where they are now.
I look forward to reading the third book, Making Magic.
A free digital copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Author Donna June Cooper skillfully weaves an environmental theme throughout her stories which makes you stop and think about what humans have done and are doing to slowly destroy the earth on which they depend. This book focuses on what’s happened to the honeybee population, something that has been newsworthy for the past several years. And fireflies? What happened to them?
When Daniel Woodruff, scientist and “bee whisperer” crosses paths with environmental reporter Mel Noblett something magical happens. Both Daniel and Mel possess gifts that allow them to see the future or feel the emotions of others. Their abilities cause them emotional and sometimes physical pain but can also be advantageous and useful in certain circumstances. But it isn’t easy knowing what someone else feels and not knowing the reason why, nor is it easy seeing the potentially bad things that may happen in the future. The character of Daniel especially shows growth as he learns to control his abilities and use them to change the outcome of a situation.
There is something very compelling about Ms. Cooper’s storytelling ability because not only do you want to know how her characters are going to use their gifts, but also how and if these two will ever get together. She never rushes the pace, but allows the story to unfold naturally in a way that seems right for the characters after all they’ve been through together.
I read the first book in the series, More Than Magic, and the same things I enjoyed about that book are present in this one. The Woodruff family element comes into play once again and the special magic that is Woodruff Mountain. It’s always fun to revisit characters such as Grace and Nick and see where they are now.
I look forward to reading the third book, Making Magic.
A free digital copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2015
This is the second novel in the Magic series. I read the first one not long ago and was glad I could jump right back in with book two. This time we are thrown into the dreams, or are they nightmares, of Dr. Daniel Woodruff.
He is not a Doctor doctor, like his sister Grace, who we learned much about in book one, More Than Magic.
Among his many other talents, Dr. Daniel is a Bee Whisperer.
All of the Woodruff family are very environmentally conscious.
All of the Woodruff family have rare talents that they, themselves, do not yet quite understand or have under control.
The Woodruff home base is a mountain, which seems to have secrets and magic all its own.
Mel Noblett is a freelance writer who often seeks out the truth about environmental issues.
When her planned interview fizzles out she follows an unplanned but convenient lead and meets Dr. Daniel Woodruff in Italy. Having never been there myself it was enjoyable to visit through their eyes, even when that vision got fuzzy.
Again there is danger and adventure in this second novel. The romance is not any smoother than Grace's with Nick in More Than Magic. There definitely is something electric between Dan and Mel.
Once again we get to spend time on the mountain with Jamie and Pooka and Ouida.
I can not wait to spend more time with Lily (or both Lilys.)
It is quite clear at the end of this book that life will get crazier before things settle down.
I am ready to jump into book three, Making Magic.
I did receive copies of all 3 books for a book tour. The review opinions are my own.
He is not a Doctor doctor, like his sister Grace, who we learned much about in book one, More Than Magic.
Among his many other talents, Dr. Daniel is a Bee Whisperer.
All of the Woodruff family are very environmentally conscious.
All of the Woodruff family have rare talents that they, themselves, do not yet quite understand or have under control.
The Woodruff home base is a mountain, which seems to have secrets and magic all its own.
Mel Noblett is a freelance writer who often seeks out the truth about environmental issues.
When her planned interview fizzles out she follows an unplanned but convenient lead and meets Dr. Daniel Woodruff in Italy. Having never been there myself it was enjoyable to visit through their eyes, even when that vision got fuzzy.
Again there is danger and adventure in this second novel. The romance is not any smoother than Grace's with Nick in More Than Magic. There definitely is something electric between Dan and Mel.
Once again we get to spend time on the mountain with Jamie and Pooka and Ouida.
I can not wait to spend more time with Lily (or both Lilys.)
It is quite clear at the end of this book that life will get crazier before things settle down.
I am ready to jump into book three, Making Magic.
I did receive copies of all 3 books for a book tour. The review opinions are my own.
January 20, 2015
Daniel has always hated his “gift” I mean what good is seeing the future when all you see are horrible endings and nothing you can do to change the outcomes of these horrid images? The more he struggles against his “gift” the worse it gets for him. His gift begins to evolve in ways that leave Daniel reeling. Mel is an environmental journalist that has a gift of her own. When she is sent to interview a scientist for a paper she ends up interviewing Daniel instead since her source was less than cooperative. When she meets Daniel he is a contradiction. When he starts to have episodes due to his gift and tries vehemently to convince someone not to board a certain train she knows that he is hiding something. From then on things start to happen to both Mel and Daniel that are way past out of the ordinary. A series of “accidents” seem to follow Mel everywhere she goes. Daniel sees Mel in every waking moment he has and wants nothing more than to protect her. Will he finally be able to accept his gift and save her? Can the future he saw for them really happen or is it jus going to end up being another tragic ending? By accepting his gift will it change the course of everything else he has seen? Will those hunting Mel get to her before Daniel can? With their combined gifts can they actually make a difference?
January 13, 2015
Mel wants to save the environment. She hears something that she believes can help her and heads off to italy. When that all falls apart, she decides to try to get and interview from Dr Daniel Woodruff (Grace from the 1st book brother). He though wants nothing to do with her. He is still terrified from his vision of the lose of his future wife and child.
Now he has decided to try and stop his visions and save everything. But things do not always go the way you actually think they should.
I loved how Mel and Daniel have such a great chemistry. Both have gifts that make them want to protect the other. Daniel believes his gift to be a curse and does not see how they could help.
The magic of the mountain is different in this one but its still amazing.
You also get to see how Grace and Nick are doing following the first book.
I loved that it was about bee's and the environment. Those are both things we need to try and protect but big companies do not always let you.
This was a great second book!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for and honest review.
Now he has decided to try and stop his visions and save everything. But things do not always go the way you actually think they should.
I loved how Mel and Daniel have such a great chemistry. Both have gifts that make them want to protect the other. Daniel believes his gift to be a curse and does not see how they could help.
The magic of the mountain is different in this one but its still amazing.
You also get to see how Grace and Nick are doing following the first book.
I loved that it was about bee's and the environment. Those are both things we need to try and protect but big companies do not always let you.
This was a great second book!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for and honest review.
May 9, 2015
In this book it is the turn of Daniel to take centre stage. He is beekeeper/bee whisperer and lecturer. He is struggling with his gift - when he touches someone he is thrust into the future and what is about to happen to them - usually he is shown something that could be a severe threat, even death.
The first third of the book takes place in France where Daniel first mets Mel, a persistent and tenacious journalist. Daniel then returns to Woodruff Mountain and not long after Mel joins him.
There I enjoyed meeting up again with Grace and Nick and young Jaime. Grace is able to help Daniel a little with his gift, as do other members of the family! It turns out Daniel is not the only one with a gift and as the suspense builds in this book, it becomes a little like a game of chess. A move and then a counter move.
The story has a strong environmental message and explores the impact of humans on the planet - often threatening life, however the story also shows that each one using their specific gifts wisely can have a positive impact.
The first third of the book takes place in France where Daniel first mets Mel, a persistent and tenacious journalist. Daniel then returns to Woodruff Mountain and not long after Mel joins him.
There I enjoyed meeting up again with Grace and Nick and young Jaime. Grace is able to help Daniel a little with his gift, as do other members of the family! It turns out Daniel is not the only one with a gift and as the suspense builds in this book, it becomes a little like a game of chess. A move and then a counter move.
The story has a strong environmental message and explores the impact of humans on the planet - often threatening life, however the story also shows that each one using their specific gifts wisely can have a positive impact.
August 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this book, as it introduced us to more members of the Woodruff family. As the stories go on, we understand more and more about their heritage and their special gifts. I'm anxious to read book #3.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews