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Aberrant Magic #2
Derivation
Darren and Kavon have committed to each other, but magical rules are changing and that tests the strength of their bond. The death of a prominent Egyptian shaman and the shadowy remains of O'Brien's conspiracy to kill adepts and steal their magic also pressure the new couple. Kavon is determined to protect his partner through these storms, but he is also painfully aware of his own tendency to hover. And as Darren is quick to point out, he is an armed federal agent who won't allow Kavon to keep him off the front lines.Making the relationship even more difficult, the spirit guides who offered their loyalty have their own hopes and needs. The world is changing, and Darren's spirit guide pushes them to find the right path to navigate. However, Kavon has never enjoyed being pressured, and he is particularly uncomfortable walking into a situation he doesn't understand. Worse, the longer he knows Darren and his guide, the more confused Kavon becomes about how magic even works. The two men must pull together or the forces moving in the shadows threaten to destroy them before they have any chance at happiness.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2016
46 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
About the author
Lyn Gala
47 books1,166 followersLynsey "Lyn" Gala started writing in the back of her science notebook in third grade and hasn’t stopped since. Westerns starring men with shady pasts gave way to science fiction with questionable protagonists which eventually gave in to any story with a morally ambiguous character. Even the purest heroes have pain and loss and darkness in their hearts, and that’s where she likes to find her stories. Her characters seek to better themselves and find the happy ending (or happier anyway), but it’s writing the struggle that inspires her muse. When she isn’t writing, Lyn Gala teaches in New Mexico.
She first cut her teeth on fanfic: gen, slash, het, and femslash. She prefers to focus on plot: mysteries and monsters and disasters, oh my, but sex can and does happen. Some of her stories focus on power exchange, bondage or bdsm. In her worlds, tops and bottoms are all mature, consenting adults. In fact, stories where they aren't squick her badly, so don't expect to find abuse stories in her journal.
She first cut her teeth on fanfic: gen, slash, het, and femslash. She prefers to focus on plot: mysteries and monsters and disasters, oh my, but sex can and does happen. Some of her stories focus on power exchange, bondage or bdsm. In her worlds, tops and bottoms are all mature, consenting adults. In fact, stories where they aren't squick her badly, so don't expect to find abuse stories in her journal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
July 2, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Too little depth*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
There's something missing from this book - hell the whole series. And I believe that is depth. The lack of depth is making this series... not so good. It's hard to connect with the characters when I don't even feel the connection between the two male who are soul-bonded. I had expected soul-bonded couple would be closer, more connect, acting more as a couple. But I just felt like to people - one is a boss of the other - shared magic and had sex with each other. I didn't feel the love from them, for one another and I needed to feel that. I seriously hope we get that in next book.
Darren Dominic Oberton (early thirties) is struggling a bit to get a handle on his magic; he's supposed to be a shaman, yet he can't do anything shamany without is spirit guide. His Supervisory Special Agent and Shaman and his soul-bound mate Kavon Boucher (40) is worried for his lover, as it seems like Darren's spirit guide follows his own rules, and Kavon is scared something will happen to him. On top of that the team has two cases they are working on and time is running out.
Overall, I needed more. Story-wise, it's okay; it got action and some hot sex. Yet, I don't feel connected with the characters; it's like I'm on the outside looking in and that's ruining this for me. I need the characters to be on a deeper level toward each other, specially considering they are soul-bounded. It should be a more powerful bond than just a relationship, but I don't feel that.
Shamans were supposed to be the big dogs of the magical world. Magic users could train to manipulate magical artifacts, but shamans had spirit guides that gave them a pipeline to the source of all magic. Despite that, Darren’s powers had a few glitches.
Other characters:
I've put these in a spoilers tag simply because it's a long list; contains spoilers
The Talent Unit handled crime related to magical powers. Until Darren’s magic had shown up far later in life than Talent normally appeared, he had been the only mundane member of the field team. Now their team was made up of all Talent, and sometimes non-Talented norms got a little nervous around magic. That explained why the FBI gave them their own office in an isolated corner of the DC building. It was small and unspectacular, and their bathroom was tiny and painted a distressing shade of 1970s green, but they had the space to themselves.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Darren Oberton, I guess.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure, I guess.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
Read
July 25, 2016This is the second of the three books I wrote earlier this year. The first book had Darren and Kavon dealing with team and partnership issues, but now that they are together, there's a larger magical universe to deal with. And at the same time, they have to figure out how to make their relationship work day to day. It's one thing to declare love. It's another to deal with dirty socks.
July 29, 2016
Will admit, the whole explanation about shaman, adepts, talents, jinn, ifrit, the whole human vs. spirit plane ... kinda went WAY over my head *lol*. But I took it in stride ... I pretty much reacted to this the same way I read Gala's Claimings series. I might not understand everything but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
Can I say that I really, REALLY loved Bennu? Darren's spirit guide (partner) was a rebel *lol*. Bennu simply rocked!! I loved reading about what Bennu could do. Bennu redefined rules over and over again and I adored him for it. I enjoyed Kavon having to change his understanding about Darren and Bennu more than once because Bennu didn't play by the rules.
I loved that Kennu and Darren were pretty much solid ... they could argued, but they communicated things. Loved that.
I didn't really pay attention to the mystery because I learned from the first book, that the mystery was a bit underwhelming. At least the villain in this one wasn't totally out of the left field (which was my huge complaint for Deductions) and when I thought back about the clues, the explanation kind of made sense.
Book #3 coming next month. Whoo hoo!
Can I say that I really, REALLY loved Bennu? Darren's spirit guide (partner) was a rebel *lol*. Bennu simply rocked!! I loved reading about what Bennu could do. Bennu redefined rules over and over again and I adored him for it. I enjoyed Kavon having to change his understanding about Darren and Bennu more than once because Bennu didn't play by the rules.
I loved that Kennu and Darren were pretty much solid ... they could argued, but they communicated things. Loved that.
I didn't really pay attention to the mystery because I learned from the first book, that the mystery was a bit underwhelming. At least the villain in this one wasn't totally out of the left field (which was my huge complaint for Deductions) and when I thought back about the clues, the explanation kind of made sense.
Book #3 coming next month. Whoo hoo!
August 19, 2016
The night sky should only serve as the velvet darkness that compliments the luminescence of the moon & her sister stars but without that harmony,the blackness would just overwhelm & absorb all light these celestial bodies have. Boucher is that stifling presence in this book,the one who sucks up all the energy of his soulmate though on the power level he is the lesser partner of the two men that make up this story.
He obliterates any light that his younger lover may possess.He makes decisions that make little sense,he makes choices that are not his to make,he continuously fosters the false perception that his lover is the weaker of the two all in the name of protecting him.Even during battle scenes he leeches off his partner's immense ancient magic to defeat their enemies & passes of any win as his own.
And because of this masquerade there was no evident growth for Darren the hidden character who had the power to smash the world but because his elder lover has forced him into the bumbling weak fool role I guess that is where the story intends for him to stay.
I enjoyed the first book thoroughly as is evident by the five shining stars but this the second offering exhibited nothing new.
He obliterates any light that his younger lover may possess.He makes decisions that make little sense,he makes choices that are not his to make,he continuously fosters the false perception that his lover is the weaker of the two all in the name of protecting him.Even during battle scenes he leeches off his partner's immense ancient magic to defeat their enemies & passes of any win as his own.
And because of this masquerade there was no evident growth for Darren the hidden character who had the power to smash the world but because his elder lover has forced him into the bumbling weak fool role I guess that is where the story intends for him to stay.
I enjoyed the first book thoroughly as is evident by the five shining stars but this the second offering exhibited nothing new.
August 13, 2016
This second book in the series takes us deeper into the world of spirit guides and magic, including the ifrits who may represent an explanation for Darren's guide Bennu, and his unusual abilities. Kavon and Darren become more comfortable with each other and we get more backstory on each man. There is some heated sex (with a detour into a bit of powerplay/bondage) and an interesting mystery thread to follow.
I felt that there was a personal power imbalance still present between the guys that was addressed, but not really resolved, and then worsened again by some revelations toward the end of the book. That made me feel like the relationship wasn't as solid as it should have been for the level of commitment. But there is still time for kinks to be worked out, in every sense.
There are some good action scenes, some tender moments, and I didn't guess all the antagonists in advance. An enjoyable read, and I'm looking forward to how it works out in the next book. The ending was a solid HFN, but there are plenty of threads left to be tied off.
I felt that there was a personal power imbalance still present between the guys that was addressed, but not really resolved, and then worsened again by some revelations toward the end of the book. That made me feel like the relationship wasn't as solid as it should have been for the level of commitment. But there is still time for kinks to be worked out, in every sense.
There are some good action scenes, some tender moments, and I didn't guess all the antagonists in advance. An enjoyable read, and I'm looking forward to how it works out in the next book. The ending was a solid HFN, but there are plenty of threads left to be tied off.
November 26, 2017
One thing I learned from this book,and is that Bennu is the oldest Fujoshi,or Fudanshi in his case since he is male,alive xD.
I love that bird!(don't get all pervy on my words!)
I laughed all the time Bennu tried to watch Kavon and Darren have sex, when he followed them around sending daggers to all who tried to come btw their bond and how he magically married them, lol man, he sure knows how to ship.
The story in this book was more central and there was less world building.I'm Not saying that was a bad thing though.
Kavon and Darren's relationship was one of the crucial part, and their bond with its unique powers was one of the things able to save a lot of lives(and the marks!!! that part was sexy as hell). We also find out, and I had sensed something wasn't right with the ppl in the team, that one of them was a double agent, working with the "big evil". There were many revelations in this 2nd book and one of them was about Darren not being a shaman but still a mundane, also if thanks to Bennu, he has probably more power than any other shaman, but when Bennu isn't with him he is powerless, almost. I'm not sure if this is really right or if there is something more behind, I don't think for one second that the author revealed all her cards in one book, and maybe in the 3rd one, finally the others will understand that Darren isn't just a low talented shaman, following Kavon and that is being used by him, but that he is an equal in their relationship and that HIS magic and HIS guide where the one winning the fight with that "big evil". I understand that Kavon is trying to protect Darren and for this reason doesn't want to tell what really happened during the fight, but I don't want the other Talented people to see Darren as weak and useless, and just as a sex toy, bcs he is so much more and atm the only people who know that are Kavon and Les, maybe Coretta too.
With a new mundane, soon being added to their team, I think that we are going to see some fireworks!
Ps = Kavon's jealousy was a sweet bonus and I'm with Darren in his attempts of "bullying" him.
Useless to add, but the sex was always hot, and this time Darren tops too!
Next!
I love that bird!(don't get all pervy on my words!)
I laughed all the time Bennu tried to watch Kavon and Darren have sex, when he followed them around sending daggers to all who tried to come btw their bond and how he magically married them, lol man, he sure knows how to ship.
The story in this book was more central and there was less world building.I'm Not saying that was a bad thing though.
Kavon and Darren's relationship was one of the crucial part, and their bond with its unique powers was one of the things able to save a lot of lives(and the marks!!! that part was sexy as hell). We also find out, and I had sensed something wasn't right with the ppl in the team, that one of them was a double agent, working with the "big evil". There were many revelations in this 2nd book and one of them was about Darren not being a shaman but still a mundane, also if thanks to Bennu, he has probably more power than any other shaman, but when Bennu isn't with him he is powerless, almost. I'm not sure if this is really right or if there is something more behind, I don't think for one second that the author revealed all her cards in one book, and maybe in the 3rd one, finally the others will understand that Darren isn't just a low talented shaman, following Kavon and that is being used by him, but that he is an equal in their relationship and that HIS magic and HIS guide where the one winning the fight with that "big evil". I understand that Kavon is trying to protect Darren and for this reason doesn't want to tell what really happened during the fight, but I don't want the other Talented people to see Darren as weak and useless, and just as a sex toy, bcs he is so much more and atm the only people who know that are Kavon and Les, maybe Coretta too.
With a new mundane, soon being added to their team, I think that we are going to see some fireworks!
Ps = Kavon's jealousy was a sweet bonus and I'm with Darren in his attempts of "bullying" him.
Useless to add, but the sex was always hot, and this time Darren tops too!
Next!
August 21, 2016
In book 2 the Talent team is working on a case with human trafficking, but Kavon and Darren are called to the Egyptian embassy to figure out whether the death of a VIP Egyptian shaman was murder or not.
In this one there is more humor, there are more explanations and there is a SHIT load of politics. Kavon is a powerful shaman, and the council of magic (3 shamans) are worried about him. One is worried that Kavon will take his place in the council and one is worried about Kavon's progressive-ness.
Darren is figuring out his connection to Bennu and how to 'use' the OLD spirit guide, which makes for some interesting and fun experiments.
Also there are more smexy times than the first book, and they are more fleshed out, which was quite nice, since they seemed sort of... Artificial in the last one.
At around the 50% mark some things about magic and the spirit plane are explained in a conversation between Les and Darren, and I was so happy, because it really hashed out some of the things I've been trying to wrap my head around.
This book is more politics and mystery, but we get an answer to some of the questions from book 1. Also the relationship between Darren and Kavon is developed and we get a feel for them and their spirit guides, in a way I didn't get from book 1.
This one was better than the first! There are some weird scenes (the squid and the pool), but this universe is beginning to be well-developed and fleshed out, and I love Darren and Bennu.
Will definitely read the next one...
In this one there is more humor, there are more explanations and there is a SHIT load of politics. Kavon is a powerful shaman, and the council of magic (3 shamans) are worried about him. One is worried that Kavon will take his place in the council and one is worried about Kavon's progressive-ness.
Darren is figuring out his connection to Bennu and how to 'use' the OLD spirit guide, which makes for some interesting and fun experiments.
Also there are more smexy times than the first book, and they are more fleshed out, which was quite nice, since they seemed sort of... Artificial in the last one.
At around the 50% mark some things about magic and the spirit plane are explained in a conversation between Les and Darren, and I was so happy, because it really hashed out some of the things I've been trying to wrap my head around.
This book is more politics and mystery, but we get an answer to some of the questions from book 1. Also the relationship between Darren and Kavon is developed and we get a feel for them and their spirit guides, in a way I didn't get from book 1.
This one was better than the first! There are some weird scenes (the squid and the pool), but this universe is beginning to be well-developed and fleshed out, and I love Darren and Bennu.
Will definitely read the next one...
May 8, 2020
** 4.5 stars **
I have to say that the author surprised me there at the end. First part of the book while being overall good dragged just a tad for me with all the shamanic talk and discussions. I read the first book quite a long time ago, so I floundered a bit while trying to remember what was what. I liked the dual POV of both Darren and Kavon. Two men suited each other well in and out of bedroom. Kavon's bad attitude covered his protectiveness and worry he felt for Darren and his team, "his people" he called them. I liked the feelings that both men were not afraid to show, there was never a moment when I didn't know how they felt for each other and the events that went on. What I liked the best was how both men brought these mutual feelings of respect and being on equal footing in the relationship.
There was a lot political posturing, office intrigue and magical aspects that made the story a very intriguing read for me. I liked Bennu, the guardian, a lot. The plot twists that came in the end threw me for a loop. I so didn't see at least one of them coming. I loved the finale so much. Darren and Kavon totally kicked a$$. Overall I enjoyed this book even better that the first with the exception of the over long shamanic discussions in the beginning. I would have like a little less of them and a bit more investigation. This was moderately steamy, steadily paced PNR romance.
I have to say that the author surprised me there at the end. First part of the book while being overall good dragged just a tad for me with all the shamanic talk and discussions. I read the first book quite a long time ago, so I floundered a bit while trying to remember what was what. I liked the dual POV of both Darren and Kavon. Two men suited each other well in and out of bedroom. Kavon's bad attitude covered his protectiveness and worry he felt for Darren and his team, "his people" he called them. I liked the feelings that both men were not afraid to show, there was never a moment when I didn't know how they felt for each other and the events that went on. What I liked the best was how both men brought these mutual feelings of respect and being on equal footing in the relationship.
There was a lot political posturing, office intrigue and magical aspects that made the story a very intriguing read for me. I liked Bennu, the guardian, a lot. The plot twists that came in the end threw me for a loop. I so didn't see at least one of them coming. I loved the finale so much. Darren and Kavon totally kicked a$$. Overall I enjoyed this book even better that the first with the exception of the over long shamanic discussions in the beginning. I would have like a little less of them and a bit more investigation. This was moderately steamy, steadily paced PNR romance.
November 10, 2019
Too dry, what’s with the politics, power struggle and continuous lectures on all things shamanic. I didn’t feel love between the MCs, let alone a soulmate connection, it seemed more like co-workers with benefits and then even more benefits to advance the department’s crime-solving.
August 17, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
This is the second book in the Aberrant Magic series and sees us back with Darren and Kavon. Their relationship has moved on since Darren’s latent magic skills evolved but before he really has a chance to understand the changes that are happening to him another case lands on their desks and they are quickly dragged into something far bigger than they imagined.
I really like the world Lyn Gala has built in this series however it is far more detailed in this second book and I have to admit to getting confused at times. There are dark levels of magic at work that may or may not be tied to a previous case but it most certainly has something to do with the Egyptians and the dead body at their embassy. The story weaves itself perfectly to overlap with book one and gives us more answers as to what happened to the murdered adepts – it also raises a lot more questions, hunts out a traitor and puts Kavon and Darren’s life in danger more than once.
Bennu has taken on a life of his own and could almost be a main character. He is sassy, inquisitive and won’t take no for an answer but he appears to be hell bent on protecting his guide and his lover. I do wonder how long Darren and Kavon will be able to keep their secret and if they are found out what the impact will be – I guess we will have to wait and see what happens in book three.
This is the second book in the Aberrant Magic series and sees us back with Darren and Kavon. Their relationship has moved on since Darren’s latent magic skills evolved but before he really has a chance to understand the changes that are happening to him another case lands on their desks and they are quickly dragged into something far bigger than they imagined.
I really like the world Lyn Gala has built in this series however it is far more detailed in this second book and I have to admit to getting confused at times. There are dark levels of magic at work that may or may not be tied to a previous case but it most certainly has something to do with the Egyptians and the dead body at their embassy. The story weaves itself perfectly to overlap with book one and gives us more answers as to what happened to the murdered adepts – it also raises a lot more questions, hunts out a traitor and puts Kavon and Darren’s life in danger more than once.
Bennu has taken on a life of his own and could almost be a main character. He is sassy, inquisitive and won’t take no for an answer but he appears to be hell bent on protecting his guide and his lover. I do wonder how long Darren and Kavon will be able to keep their secret and if they are found out what the impact will be – I guess we will have to wait and see what happens in book three.
May 14, 2020
I just love how much these two genuinely like and respect each other. That is the whole basis for their relationship, and since that foundation was built from working together, it translates really clearly on the job.
I think that's why this series is working so well for me. The romance is still just a background detail with the main plot focus on their investigation work and the magic that entails, but they mesh so perfectly, both on and off the job, that it makes for a really pleasant read.
I still love the magical bits, but I require a certain amount of realism in the relationship, even in the midst of a complete urban fantasy, as these two really hit my sweet spot for compatible partnership. I agree with Kavon that someone's "moral fiber" can be sexy as hell :)
I think that's why this series is working so well for me. The romance is still just a background detail with the main plot focus on their investigation work and the magic that entails, but they mesh so perfectly, both on and off the job, that it makes for a really pleasant read.
I still love the magical bits, but I require a certain amount of realism in the relationship, even in the midst of a complete urban fantasy, as these two really hit my sweet spot for compatible partnership. I agree with Kavon that someone's "moral fiber" can be sexy as hell :)
September 29, 2020
I was correct in thinking that after the first book that took more time explaining the world and the different types of magic users and such, this one started fleshing out more of the story. As sometimes happens with books that have a intricate mysteries and plots, the romance wasn't the complete focus and I would have liked more about that as well as the rest of the plot but it definitely would have had to have been longer which I thought it could have benefitted from.
Regardless, I have enjoyed other books from this author as well and think she has an interesting imagination that has made for some very different, but fascinating stories.
Regardless, I have enjoyed other books from this author as well and think she has an interesting imagination that has made for some very different, but fascinating stories.
October 16, 2016
3.5 (4.0) Stars
I'm fast falling in love with this magical series. The world building is awesome and I absolutely have fallen in love with Bennu. The suspenseful plot kept me guessing till the end.
Bottom line: Can't wait for book 3!
I'm fast falling in love with this magical series. The world building is awesome and I absolutely have fallen in love with Bennu. The suspenseful plot kept me guessing till the end.
Bottom line: Can't wait for book 3!
February 8, 2017
4.5* Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
I am so officially in love with this series. <3 After the events of the previous book, Deductions, Darren and Kavon are still exploring what it means to be bonded while working on the cases that come their way. A string of bad luck has their professional life suffering, however, as their close rates are dropping and less people are willing to work with them as a result. A mysterious death at the Egyptian Embassy sends the two men on what Kavon believes is a waste of time investigation but nothing is as it seems and a trip to speak to the woman’s spirit provides more questions than answers. With foreign shamans and a nosy council looking over their shoulders, Kavon and Darren are going to have to be extra careful if they plan on making it out of this situation alive.
*hums happily* These books are just so good! I just love how the author manages to weave all the different elements present in the story into one cohesive whole. The plot itself was excellent and managed to tie the previous book with this one while exploring other problems, both mentioned previously and unknown until now. You also get more insights into the shamanistic side of magic but some of that only raised more questions that I hope will be addressed in the next book in the series. I’m personally really hoping that the bond between Darren and his guide will be discussed more, especially after the revelations that took place in Derivation.
Kavon and Darren were still great together and its nice to see that being bonded hasn’t changed their work dynamic overmuch. Their chemistry is still amazing and the bedroom scenes were nice and diverse which made them enjoyable to read. And hot. They were hot, too. :D There wasn’t as much action over the course of the story as there was in the previous book but there was enough to keep the overall pace going as well as keeping me entertained. Things left off in a great place, as well, and with everything that has happened in the series, I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens next! If you’re looking for a good urban fantasy to read, I recommend checking this one out but, as these books are best read in order, go give Deductions a look first; you won’t regret either one.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2016/09/1...
I am so officially in love with this series. <3 After the events of the previous book, Deductions, Darren and Kavon are still exploring what it means to be bonded while working on the cases that come their way. A string of bad luck has their professional life suffering, however, as their close rates are dropping and less people are willing to work with them as a result. A mysterious death at the Egyptian Embassy sends the two men on what Kavon believes is a waste of time investigation but nothing is as it seems and a trip to speak to the woman’s spirit provides more questions than answers. With foreign shamans and a nosy council looking over their shoulders, Kavon and Darren are going to have to be extra careful if they plan on making it out of this situation alive.
*hums happily* These books are just so good! I just love how the author manages to weave all the different elements present in the story into one cohesive whole. The plot itself was excellent and managed to tie the previous book with this one while exploring other problems, both mentioned previously and unknown until now. You also get more insights into the shamanistic side of magic but some of that only raised more questions that I hope will be addressed in the next book in the series. I’m personally really hoping that the bond between Darren and his guide will be discussed more, especially after the revelations that took place in Derivation.
Kavon and Darren were still great together and its nice to see that being bonded hasn’t changed their work dynamic overmuch. Their chemistry is still amazing and the bedroom scenes were nice and diverse which made them enjoyable to read. And hot. They were hot, too. :D There wasn’t as much action over the course of the story as there was in the previous book but there was enough to keep the overall pace going as well as keeping me entertained. Things left off in a great place, as well, and with everything that has happened in the series, I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens next! If you’re looking for a good urban fantasy to read, I recommend checking this one out but, as these books are best read in order, go give Deductions a look first; you won’t regret either one.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2016/09/1...
August 19, 2016
NO! what happened? The first book took me by the shirt and said "come on, we're going on an epic adventure!" and I was suprised, intrigued and inclined to go along because it was magical.
But book 2? I just want to reach in and grab the main character. "Wake up, Darren! Wake up!" His energy, his magnetism - all gone into the shadows of this book, a sweet passing memory. Did I imagine his awesomeness? Did I get the wrong impression and this is his true self? I'm confused, silently mulling this book over. No, it didn't feel right. No, it didn't have the same amazing plot. And I'm starting to get annoyed with his lover, no, no, no! Another character I used to think of as pretty incredible and fascinating. What is happening here?!
Finally, the second installment! I had thought. My expectations were high, they were up in the skies with this book. Maybe that was as it should be, maybe it was too much and due to it I fell hard when it didn't meet those expectations.
Now I'm waiting for the third book and unfortunately, it's more of a feeling of dread. Should I buy it? What if I read it and it's confirmed, this is Darren's role now? Left in the shadows, a ghost of his former awesome prescence.
I don't think I want to take part in this.
But book 2? I just want to reach in and grab the main character. "Wake up, Darren! Wake up!" His energy, his magnetism - all gone into the shadows of this book, a sweet passing memory. Did I imagine his awesomeness? Did I get the wrong impression and this is his true self? I'm confused, silently mulling this book over. No, it didn't feel right. No, it didn't have the same amazing plot. And I'm starting to get annoyed with his lover, no, no, no! Another character I used to think of as pretty incredible and fascinating. What is happening here?!
Finally, the second installment! I had thought. My expectations were high, they were up in the skies with this book. Maybe that was as it should be, maybe it was too much and due to it I fell hard when it didn't meet those expectations.
Now I'm waiting for the third book and unfortunately, it's more of a feeling of dread. Should I buy it? What if I read it and it's confirmed, this is Darren's role now? Left in the shadows, a ghost of his former awesome prescence.
I don't think I want to take part in this.
October 20, 2017
Can I haz a Bennu? Seriously, I'm beginning to love him.
This was much more enjoyable than the first book. There was less detective work but more relationship and character development. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed the first book too but was often left confused by the different types of and discussions or 'info dump' about magic in that one.
There is still a lot of magic in this one but the author seems to have settled the direction she wants that magic to go or at least is better at describing it.
I am still upset about how everyone treats Darren about Ben. I'm not going to provide spoilers but if I was Darren I'd be pissed. He has a right to an apology. They should Mea Culpa all up his ass!!
Anyway, another great story, magic, men & mayhem! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
This was much more enjoyable than the first book. There was less detective work but more relationship and character development. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed the first book too but was often left confused by the different types of and discussions or 'info dump' about magic in that one.
There is still a lot of magic in this one but the author seems to have settled the direction she wants that magic to go or at least is better at describing it.
I am still upset about how everyone treats Darren about Ben. I'm not going to provide spoilers but if I was Darren I'd be pissed. He has a right to an apology. They should Mea Culpa all up his ass!!
Anyway, another great story, magic, men & mayhem! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
August 1, 2016
What to say?
The second book of "Aberrant Magic" wasn't as enjoyable as the 1 book.
Why?
Because unfinished problems from 1 book follow into the second book where we also get new problems. Also, author "Lyn Gala" uses sometimes names and sometimes surnames of some character inside the story, that leads to confusions and question who are they talking about.
All, in all 50 % of the story plot was boring as Hell.
From my own perspective, Lyn Gala made a mistake to break normal story plot into 2 short story plots just so she could release 2 books.
The second book of "Aberrant Magic" wasn't as enjoyable as the 1 book.
Why?
Because unfinished problems from 1 book follow into the second book where we also get new problems. Also, author "Lyn Gala" uses sometimes names and sometimes surnames of some character inside the story, that leads to confusions and question who are they talking about.
All, in all 50 % of the story plot was boring as Hell.
From my own perspective, Lyn Gala made a mistake to break normal story plot into 2 short story plots just so she could release 2 books.
March 28, 2021
Fantastic! The relationship between Darren and Kavon is developing beautifully, and the bond between them and Bennu is absolutely wonderful. (I'd include Kavon's bull in that last bit, but...he's really kinda just hanging out and content to do something when necessary more than being an actively directing part of the relationship, so...yeah.) Great twist which I hadn't seen coming. And great other twist, which I kind of saw coming but not completely. And what the freak with those Egyptians! I mean really! I'm excited to see where the group heads next -- it's a great series so far!
November 4, 2018
another good book in this series. I really enjoyed reading this
August 12, 2016
just shy of 4.5 stars
This is the second instalment of this series, and sees the newly bonded Kavon and Darren pulled into an investigation involving the death of a visiting Egyptian Shaman. But that's only a small part of a much bigger picture, which ties in with the investigation in the previous book.
There is a lot to like about this series, in particular the set up of the alternative universe. We get to know Kavon and Darren a little better as they grow comfortable with each other and Darren tries to learn more about what turn out to be very limited Shaman powers. That said, I felt that the number of intimate scenes between them were a little unnecessary and found myself skimming.
I love Bannu, and we get to know much more about him (though really, thank you subconscious, his non egret form is nothing like Big Bird fro Sesame Street!). We also learn more about the spirit plane and the Ifrit (elder guides) who are no longer around. That said it is sometimes hard to keep the Shamans and their guides straight and well
While this book doesn't end on a cliff hanger, there are unanswered questions that go on to set up the final book which I shall look forward to reading.
This is the second instalment of this series, and sees the newly bonded Kavon and Darren pulled into an investigation involving the death of a visiting Egyptian Shaman. But that's only a small part of a much bigger picture, which ties in with the investigation in the previous book.
There is a lot to like about this series, in particular the set up of the alternative universe. We get to know Kavon and Darren a little better as they grow comfortable with each other and Darren tries to learn more about what turn out to be very limited Shaman powers. That said, I felt that the number of intimate scenes between them were a little unnecessary and found myself skimming.
I love Bannu, and we get to know much more about him (though really, thank you subconscious, his non egret form is nothing like Big Bird fro Sesame Street!). We also learn more about the spirit plane and the Ifrit (elder guides) who are no longer around. That said it is sometimes hard to keep the Shamans and their guides straight and well
While this book doesn't end on a cliff hanger, there are unanswered questions that go on to set up the final book which I shall look forward to reading.
July 27, 2018
hmm. Disliked that the primary MC Darren seems to be relegated to becoming a supporting character for the secondary MC.
It was still enjoyable, though, and I will continue with the series. Maybe.
But still.
It was still enjoyable, though, and I will continue with the series. Maybe.
But still.
July 27, 2016
Is it my birthday?
It certainly feels like it! This is probably one of the best series I've read so far for the year!
Lyn Gala has created a fascinating world. The magic, the mystery, the romance between Darren & Kavon, and the enigmatic Bennu.
Likes:
-the cover!!! Loved seeing both of the MCs !
-the whole mystery of the other 'planes of existence' and the general awesomeness of the world building.
-the surliness of Kavon, he's a big grumpy teddy bear
-Les & Darren's friendship, I like that Darren wasn't isolated
-the plot twist, it was very unexpected!
Would I recommend this? Most certainly!
Would I read it again? Yup!
It certainly feels like it! This is probably one of the best series I've read so far for the year!
Lyn Gala has created a fascinating world. The magic, the mystery, the romance between Darren & Kavon, and the enigmatic Bennu.
Likes:
-the cover!!! Loved seeing both of the MCs !
-the whole mystery of the other 'planes of existence' and the general awesomeness of the world building.
-the surliness of Kavon, he's a big grumpy teddy bear
-Les & Darren's friendship, I like that Darren wasn't isolated
-the plot twist, it was very unexpected!
Would I recommend this? Most certainly!
Would I read it again? Yup!
December 4, 2020
I like the two MC's and their relationship with each other along with the world that has been created here. Although the romance isn't the driving force it plays a genuine roll and I really liked the mystery/suspense of this book. The MC's had a strong working relationship first and that means they continue to work well together as they investigate. They clearly like and respect each other and I enjoy that. Definitely a series I plan to continue.
March 7, 2017
4.5
If anything I liked this even more than the first thanks to the fascinating subplots involving Egyptian magic-users and shaman politics. Throw in a touch of spirit animal as love doctor--like Lyn Gala seriously surpassed herself in the holy-shit-that's-hot department which is saying something--and the upshot is I couldn't put it down.
Bottom line: on to book 3.
If anything I liked this even more than the first thanks to the fascinating subplots involving Egyptian magic-users and shaman politics. Throw in a touch of spirit animal as love doctor--like Lyn Gala seriously surpassed herself in the holy-shit-that's-hot department which is saying something--and the upshot is I couldn't put it down.
Bottom line: on to book 3.
April 27, 2022
This is an imaginative take on magic police forces. I really liked Kavon and Darren’s relationship and their partnership. There are some good secondary characters, though I didn’t feel the bad guys were fleshed out enough. The story held my attention though and I’ll definitely continue the series.
July 27, 2016
Mind = blown.
No words left, just give me the next part, because I.NEED.IT!
♥
No words left, just give me the next part, because I.NEED.IT!
♥
August 3, 2016
Nicely developed theme and I'm looking forward to book three.
November 19, 2017
3.5 stars
I really like the world Lyn Gala created here. Still, it’s obvious that in this series the romance takes a little the back seat to all the other things going on: mystery, politics, finding out more about Bennu, Darren’s spirit guide, and his unique abilities. (Btw, I love Bennu. Really, I want a Bennu of my own.)
Darren and Kavon are pretty solid as a couple, you can’t really doubt they’re in it for the long haul, it’s pretty much taken for granted that they're together and they’re going to stay together.
I’m more than okay with that, but I still wished for at least a tiny little bit of, I don’t know, cuddling or something. Not that cuddling or romantic declarations are really Kavon’s style. I guess I’ll have to be satisfied with the exchange of feelings and emotions through the bond that they've going on.
The relationship development was still good, revolving mostly about the many things, magical and not, they still have to figure out. And (I’ve already said I love Bennu, right?)
It might have been pretty unbalanced, especially with , but it really wasn’t. They respect and trust each other and their strengths and weaknesses complement each other pretty well, so it all worked out.
I liked the resolution of the mystery, it wasn’t obvious and, at the same time, it didn’t come out of nowhere. There are still plenty of loose ends for the following books and I’m sure Bennu has more surprises in store for us.
I really like the world Lyn Gala created here. Still, it’s obvious that in this series the romance takes a little the back seat to all the other things going on: mystery, politics, finding out more about Bennu, Darren’s spirit guide, and his unique abilities. (Btw, I love Bennu. Really, I want a Bennu of my own.)
Darren and Kavon are pretty solid as a couple, you can’t really doubt they’re in it for the long haul, it’s pretty much taken for granted that they're together and they’re going to stay together.
I’m more than okay with that, but I still wished for at least a tiny little bit of, I don’t know, cuddling or something. Not that cuddling or romantic declarations are really Kavon’s style. I guess I’ll have to be satisfied with the exchange of feelings and emotions through the bond that they've going on.
The relationship development was still good, revolving mostly about the many things, magical and not, they still have to figure out. And (I’ve already said I love Bennu, right?)
It might have been pretty unbalanced, especially with , but it really wasn’t. They respect and trust each other and their strengths and weaknesses complement each other pretty well, so it all worked out.
I liked the resolution of the mystery, it wasn’t obvious and, at the same time, it didn’t come out of nowhere. There are still plenty of loose ends for the following books and I’m sure Bennu has more surprises in store for us.
September 14, 2017
4 Stars
I felt a little more overwhelmed by all the terminology in this one than I did in the previous installment...and the story as a whole was slightly less satisfying. I loved the bonding & vows, but somehow the permanence and romance those terms suggest just didn't translate well into how the relationship developed.
But I'm still invested in this series and want to see it through to the end. These characters are interesting and the whole 'verse is fascinating.
(Note: Is it petty of me to note that the models on the cover - while definitely NOT typical of the genre - STILL don't match the descriptions of the characters? I chose this series because some friends mentioned the MCs were not white and still both of those guys in the picture are a lot lighter in skin tone than the author's details suggest. Can it still be "white-washing" if not technically white? IDK. This is me being pissy.)
I felt a little more overwhelmed by all the terminology in this one than I did in the previous installment...and the story as a whole was slightly less satisfying. I loved the bonding & vows, but somehow the permanence and romance those terms suggest just didn't translate well into how the relationship developed.
But I'm still invested in this series and want to see it through to the end. These characters are interesting and the whole 'verse is fascinating.
(Note: Is it petty of me to note that the models on the cover - while definitely NOT typical of the genre - STILL don't match the descriptions of the characters? I chose this series because some friends mentioned the MCs were not white and still both of those guys in the picture are a lot lighter in skin tone than the author's details suggest. Can it still be "white-washing" if not technically white? IDK. This is me being pissy.)
November 30, 2021
Darren and Boucher’s relationship goes even stronger with both their guides. This book entwines more of the shaman/magical politics along with introducing the Egyptians. And wow, what a twist at the end of this book…I never saw this reveal coming!
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