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Aberrant Magic #3
Divergence
Kavon and Darren believe they finally have the life they want—a lead on O'Brien, a better understanding of the failures that have plagued the team, and time to nurture the bond between them as shamans and lovers. However they've gotten involved in magical politics, and that has consequences that neither of them could foresee. Magic is changing, and Kavon and Darren are in the center of a coming storm.In the past, Kavon's only fear was that he might inadvertently damage Darren, and he is painfully aware that he has hurt his lover before. He's vowed to never make that mistake again, but new forces threaten their relationship and pose a special threat to Darren. With the danger growing more intense, Kavon struggles to find a way to protect the ones he loves and Darren realizes that the magic that gave him his heart's desire could take everything away just as quickly. Magic is a two-edged sword and the two lovers have to find a way to wield the weapon before it becomes the instrument of their death.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2016
39 people are currently reading
205 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 74 reviews
July 5, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*There's so much missing*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
This series could've been good; full of action, a hint of romance, mystery, team work... and yet, nothing feels complete. I don't feel the team connection; I feel like they barely tolerate each other, and specially not like a family as mundane with shaman powers Darren Dominic Oberton (early thirties) calls them (spirit animal guide/partner: ancient/old bird (chooses the form of a cattle egret, which implies he prefers the egret or heron form), an ifrit, he named Bennu). The action is downgraded with the reason that there is barely any hint of danger. I never feel like the characters might loose, there's no adrenaline. The mystery is becoming annoying as it's stretch out in three books and yet you still don't completely know. The mystery becomes an hindrance to enjoy the series; you're more focused on being confused than following the journey of the couple.
“I’ll tell Les, and then I’ll pack both our bags.”
“Don’t forget my underwear,” Kavon said.
“Seriously, why would I forget your underwear?” Darren asked. That was an odd thing to worry about.
“Because when we went to Oklahoma, you forgot yours,” Kavon reminded him.
Bad memories. The worst part was that Darren had fallen in a muddy creek chasing their suspect, and his only clean clothes had been dress pants, which he’d been forced to wear commando. He’d spent most of the afternoon looking for a counter to stand behind. “I was young and foolish then.”
Kavon raised an eyebrow. “It was last year.”
Darren walked backward out the door. “Young and foolish. I’m much older and wiser now.”
Speaking of the couple... am I the only one who doesn't feel their love? I mean, I get that they keep a somewhat distance at work as one is boss of the other, but still, the only 'love' I feel between them is the sex scenes which happen what, two times? Two to four chapters in the whole book? Not enough considering they have a magical soul bond, which I don't even feel. It's like they are more work partners than life partners. I just doesn't work for me.
In the low light from the closet, Kavon studied his face. They were well matched, and whatever challenges appeared, Kavon had faith they could handle them. If that meant they had to face a returning evil, they would do that together. But Kavon was done giving up one second of happiness with his lover. So tonight he planned to sleep and hold Darren close.
The lack of depth is destroying any ounce of like I have for the series. I also don't like how they treat Bennu; not everything is his fault, Darren is controlling him after all, and all Bennu is doing is trying. He should've chosen another partner. As for Supervisory Special Agent and Shaman and his soul-bound mate Kavon Boucher (40), isn't he supposed to be this powerful shaman (spirit animal guide: cape buffalo bull; then a mammoth (with Bennu's power) when needed)? If so, I don't feel his power. I don't understand what he is so powerful for? I feel like all he does is traveling to the spirit world.... Overall, I'm kinda done with the series, but as I have one left with Darren and Kavon, I'll finish it.
“If trouble is coming, we’re the sort to deal with it head-on.”
Darren nodded. “It’s who we are.”
“And that won’t change,” Kavon said. He draped his arm over Darren’s shoulder. He had a twinge of discomfort at the public display, and Darren tried to step to the side so there would be more space between them. Kavon tightened his grip and kept Darren close as he walked toward the lobby.
Other characters:
I've put these in a spoilers tag simply because it's a long list; contains spoilers
“This is good,” Darren muttered before he grabbed a pillow and pulled it under his head. They were still on top of the hotel bedspread, but he couldn’t have cared less. His body radiated heat, and everywhere Kavon touched him, Darren still sweated. He didn’t need to be covered. And yes, he knew he would be cold in five minutes, but for the next five minutes, he planned to lie still and try to put his scattered thoughts back in order.
“This is perfect,” Kavon corrected him.
It occurred to Darren that if aliens could just get rid of the rest of the world, it might stay perfect.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Three.
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 (I struggled to read) stars.
September 5, 2016
~*~* VERY SPOILER REVIEW ~*~*
3.75 stars rounded up
Kavon, Darren, and the FBI Talent Team is back. For the most part, I loved this book, but it wasn't a solid 4-stars read for me because of of a couple of reasons. Let me write down why I loved from this third installment of Gala's Aberrant Magic first.
I loved that Kavon and Darren were solid, both as couple and as partners. They seemed to have their working rhythm perfectly.
Kavon is the more stubborn, more demanding of the two. Sometimes his stubbornness frustrated the hell out of me. He seems unwilling to work with others. Kavon's principals are sometimes too rigid, even if it helps in situation where someone must shows authority and gets things done. In the meantime, Darren is the one that smooths everything else. When the situation needs a little negotiation or sympathy, Darren is your man. He can easily befriends others too. So this is a power couple that compliment each other.
And then there is Bennu. OMG how this bird rocks. I loved Bennu so much. I loved how he wants to help with the case, but still respects Kavon's order despite him being the more powerful ifrit compared to Kavon's bull. Bennu kicks ass. I couldn't get enough of him, honestly.
I also liked the new members of the Talent team ... Agent Ahtisham Boyd and Salma al-Ghamdi. I thought Lyn Gala included diversity here without feeling like she was trying too much, you know? We have black agent, devout Muslim agent, not-so-devout Muslim agent ... well, you get my point. Oh, and I liked how they finally got their feet back together after being shocked when they discovered a traitor within their team.
What stop this from being solid 4-stars are these:
For the past two books, O'Brien was the major villain. He tortured Kavon. He was the mastermind. O'Brien was able to slick his way out of capture. But when it came to the resolution of his story, I wasn't completely satisfied. Because instead of facing O'Brien face-to-face, Kavon and Darren fought him on spirit plane. Where Bennu obliterated O'Brien's stonefish spirit guide, which resulted him dying in the real world.
For me, that wasn't enough. Call me blood thirsty, but fighting spirit guide, and put a bullet in O'Brien's head in real life was not the same. I guess I want Kavon and Darren to face this man in real life, face-to-face, not spirit guide vs. spirit guide. I felt like I was robbed the satisfaction of reading O'Brien dead (rather than his spirit guide)
Also, the O'Brien arc ended around half-way of this book. Then it was switched into the human trafficking case, which had been in the background previously. I felt like Lyn Gala was introducing new arc and new couple (yep, we had new potential power couple, as Bennu's ifrit friend -- a hummingbird with anger-management issues (LOL) -- made an appearance and ready to become a spirit guide for another agent.
Does this mean the story will continue with a different couple, town, and team altogether? With new spirit guides as well? This feels like an open ending, and if there isn't any continuation, what is the point of this introduction?
3.75 stars rounded up
Kavon, Darren, and the FBI Talent Team is back. For the most part, I loved this book, but it wasn't a solid 4-stars read for me because of of a couple of reasons. Let me write down why I loved from this third installment of Gala's Aberrant Magic first.
I loved that Kavon and Darren were solid, both as couple and as partners. They seemed to have their working rhythm perfectly.
Kavon is the more stubborn, more demanding of the two. Sometimes his stubbornness frustrated the hell out of me. He seems unwilling to work with others. Kavon's principals are sometimes too rigid, even if it helps in situation where someone must shows authority and gets things done. In the meantime, Darren is the one that smooths everything else. When the situation needs a little negotiation or sympathy, Darren is your man. He can easily befriends others too. So this is a power couple that compliment each other.
And then there is Bennu. OMG how this bird rocks. I loved Bennu so much. I loved how he wants to help with the case, but still respects Kavon's order despite him being the more powerful ifrit compared to Kavon's bull. Bennu kicks ass. I couldn't get enough of him, honestly.
I also liked the new members of the Talent team ... Agent Ahtisham Boyd and Salma al-Ghamdi. I thought Lyn Gala included diversity here without feeling like she was trying too much, you know? We have black agent, devout Muslim agent, not-so-devout Muslim agent ... well, you get my point. Oh, and I liked how they finally got their feet back together after being shocked when they discovered a traitor within their team.
What stop this from being solid 4-stars are these:
For the past two books, O'Brien was the major villain. He tortured Kavon. He was the mastermind. O'Brien was able to slick his way out of capture. But when it came to the resolution of his story, I wasn't completely satisfied. Because instead of facing O'Brien face-to-face, Kavon and Darren fought him on spirit plane. Where Bennu obliterated O'Brien's stonefish spirit guide, which resulted him dying in the real world.
For me, that wasn't enough. Call me blood thirsty, but fighting spirit guide, and put a bullet in O'Brien's head in real life was not the same. I guess I want Kavon and Darren to face this man in real life, face-to-face, not spirit guide vs. spirit guide. I felt like I was robbed the satisfaction of reading O'Brien dead (rather than his spirit guide)
Also, the O'Brien arc ended around half-way of this book. Then it was switched into the human trafficking case, which had been in the background previously. I felt like Lyn Gala was introducing new arc and new couple (yep, we had new potential power couple, as Bennu's ifrit friend -- a hummingbird with anger-management issues (LOL) -- made an appearance and ready to become a spirit guide for another agent.
Does this mean the story will continue with a different couple, town, and team altogether? With new spirit guides as well? This feels like an open ending, and if there isn't any continuation, what is the point of this introduction?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2019
Still an excellent series. I love the different take on magic and the inclusion of Shamanism, plus the continuing/deepening relationship between Kavon and Darren is swoon-worthy. (And hot. So very hot.)
This installment picks up with the team still reeling from the betrayal of one of their own and I love how that wasn't handwaved all better. We get a new teammate (2, sort of) and I like seeing how they fit into the dynamic. Plus, YAY for so much inclusion (POC, Muslims, LGBTQ) - it's just there, not a statement or stand or whatever. People just peopling, going about their business. Kinda refreshing at this point.
A major plot thread from the previous installment is wrapped up rather anticlimactically (I kind of expected that battle to be more...epic? IDK) and a second, separate case is solved...which I thought had the appropriate level of ass-kicking. Also, OMG, we are introduced to 2 other detectives and their story, while similar to Kavon/Darren was also distinctly different in how they handled their magic. I actually would really, really like to read a book about them! (Edited to add: They're Book 6 so YAY!!)
So, yeah, the next one is definitely on the TBR and I'm hoping one of my challenges will have a category so I can read it soon.
This installment picks up with the team still reeling from the betrayal of one of their own and I love how that wasn't handwaved all better. We get a new teammate (2, sort of) and I like seeing how they fit into the dynamic. Plus, YAY for so much inclusion (POC, Muslims, LGBTQ) - it's just there, not a statement or stand or whatever. People just peopling, going about their business. Kinda refreshing at this point.
A major plot thread from the previous installment is wrapped up rather anticlimactically (I kind of expected that battle to be more...epic? IDK) and a second, separate case is solved...which I thought had the appropriate level of ass-kicking. Also, OMG, we are introduced to 2 other detectives and their story, while similar to Kavon/Darren was also distinctly different in how they handled their magic. I actually would really, really like to read a book about them! (Edited to add: They're Book 6 so YAY!!)
So, yeah, the next one is definitely on the TBR and I'm hoping one of my challenges will have a category so I can read it soon.
September 9, 2016
This book gives us Kavon and Darren as a committed couple. They are learning how to work together, despite clashes of style, and their guides are also pretty much of a team now. The guys are under a lot of stress (of which Darren carries more than his share), and they have to push back against resistance from both the mundane and the magical sides, as they pursue their unfinished cases - both O'Brien, and the trafficking case. The team as a whole makes some strides toward remembering how to function together, since the betrayal by Traci shook them all. And the new guy - Boyd - was a great addition.
There is a fair bit of world-building that helps explain some of the magical questions from the first two books, although I still felt a bit shaky on some details as the story ended. The character of Salma al-Ghamdi added an interesting flavor and an authority on some aspects of the magical past. She was self-effacing enough that I didn't get a good feel for the person underneath her role as facilitator, but that fit with the way she was trained and commanded by her Egyptian leaders.
The end to the O'Brien case was more straightforward and faster than I expected, and a bit less dramatic (although props for realism maybe - . The second case, and the local cops were actually more engaging to me when we got to that scene. The second action climax was more immediate and effective than the first. And a couple of great new characters appear.
I felt like there was a fair bit left hanging at the end of this book, (especially in terms of the power struggles, and the possibly looming evil - issues that have underlain the stories. There remains the whole reason for Bennu's interest in Kavon and willingness to take part, yet to appear on the page), so I'm going to assume that this is not the end of the series. This book was less tightly written than the previous two, but still a fun read. I plan to pick up the next one.
There is a fair bit of world-building that helps explain some of the magical questions from the first two books, although I still felt a bit shaky on some details as the story ended. The character of Salma al-Ghamdi added an interesting flavor and an authority on some aspects of the magical past. She was self-effacing enough that I didn't get a good feel for the person underneath her role as facilitator, but that fit with the way she was trained and commanded by her Egyptian leaders.
The end to the O'Brien case was more straightforward and faster than I expected, and a bit less dramatic (although props for realism maybe - . The second case, and the local cops were actually more engaging to me when we got to that scene. The second action climax was more immediate and effective than the first. And a couple of great new characters appear.
I felt like there was a fair bit left hanging at the end of this book, (especially in terms of the power struggles, and the possibly looming evil - issues that have underlain the stories. There remains the whole reason for Bennu's interest in Kavon and willingness to take part, yet to appear on the page), so I'm going to assume that this is not the end of the series. This book was less tightly written than the previous two, but still a fun read. I plan to pick up the next one.
June 12, 2020
Lyn Gala does not disappoint in this fantastic continuation of Abberant Magic series. After the fallout in Derivation the Talent team is finding it hard to relearn to trust each other and faces backlash from outside agents. Kavon is forced to deal with magical politics and shamanic posturing which he quite detests but thankfully Darren is there to smooth the way. This book is a mixture of suspense (guys do catch criminals and close out cases), love (Kavon is closer to Darren than ever) and political intrigue (who knew shamans can be so finicky and evil).
I enjoyed the pace, the humor and the magical aspect of the book. Bennu, Darren's guide, is my favorite. His shenanigans and eagerness were amusing to read about. Ms Gala spun wonderful world on other plane filled with various creatures and rich with myth and imagination. I enjoyed the team and the ways they tried to get back the easy rapport they had before everything went to hell in a hand basket. I enjoyed it.
I enjoyed the pace, the humor and the magical aspect of the book. Bennu, Darren's guide, is my favorite. His shenanigans and eagerness were amusing to read about. Ms Gala spun wonderful world on other plane filled with various creatures and rich with myth and imagination. I enjoyed the team and the ways they tried to get back the easy rapport they had before everything went to hell in a hand basket. I enjoyed it.
August 31, 2016
Two stars might seem cruel, but bear with me here.
So... I had to know how this was going to end. Book 2 in this trilogy left me disappointed, but I realized I couldn't stop there - I had to know if book 3 could possibly redeem it. I should start off by saying that my opinion is that this trilogy should just have been one long book. We've got book one that was packed with action, we've got book 2 where our main character was abandoned by the plot in favor of his lover and then we have book 3. All together might have been more cohesive.
Divergence redeemed book 2 of some of the qualities that had left a bad taste in my mouth. The characters' actions and personalities could be further understood and explained... they're not perfect, but I never expected that, as long as I could understand how their minds worked. Darren shined a little light through the final installment, thank god, and albeit small it was greatly appreciated. I was afraid we had lost him for good.
Now, overall was this amazing or not? No, I'm sorry. Lyn Gala has a talent for writing and she's good, but I also know that she has written some better stories where things actually moved me, excited me and had me holding on to every word. The story in Divergence is slow paced and I found myself putting this book down from time to time because I just got so bored and uninspired to continue. There's a lot of talking, and not a lot of doing. The "major villain" or whatever we're going to call him, was stopped anti-climatically and without him actually being present for it and he was wrapped up in a neat little bow half way through the book and abandoned. Ok, I thought he was important, but maybe not... Then we go over to this other story, which honestly, I don't think any reader has really invested a lot of time into following. But there we are, with this minor plot happening and it's supposed to be important and be our major focus from now on, but compared to what could be taking place? It isn't very intriguing at all.
This story was ok, but I wanted it to be great. I kept waiting for it to be great. In my eyes it could have been, but fell short. But you know what really gnaws at me? The real interesting stuff is mentioned at the end of the book! Just when I can't let this book go (finally!) I'm already at the 90% mark of the book. So this is where I'm left feeling the real disappointment. Three books, and it's only the beginning! But actually, it's the end. Clever, cruel or unintentional? And I loved Detective Lammas! Why, oh why is he introduced at the end of book 3? That's a guy I would want to read more about, I want to know this badass good guy's story! But will his story ever be told? I hope so, because despite all the things that didn't work for me the premise of the complete(?) series is great and imaginative and if anyone could do it justice and let me know what happens to that Detective it would be the author who created it.
So... I had to know how this was going to end. Book 2 in this trilogy left me disappointed, but I realized I couldn't stop there - I had to know if book 3 could possibly redeem it. I should start off by saying that my opinion is that this trilogy should just have been one long book. We've got book one that was packed with action, we've got book 2 where our main character was abandoned by the plot in favor of his lover and then we have book 3. All together might have been more cohesive.
Divergence redeemed book 2 of some of the qualities that had left a bad taste in my mouth. The characters' actions and personalities could be further understood and explained... they're not perfect, but I never expected that, as long as I could understand how their minds worked. Darren shined a little light through the final installment, thank god, and albeit small it was greatly appreciated. I was afraid we had lost him for good.
Now, overall was this amazing or not? No, I'm sorry. Lyn Gala has a talent for writing and she's good, but I also know that she has written some better stories where things actually moved me, excited me and had me holding on to every word. The story in Divergence is slow paced and I found myself putting this book down from time to time because I just got so bored and uninspired to continue. There's a lot of talking, and not a lot of doing. The "major villain" or whatever we're going to call him, was stopped anti-climatically and without him actually being present for it and he was wrapped up in a neat little bow half way through the book and abandoned. Ok, I thought he was important, but maybe not... Then we go over to this other story, which honestly, I don't think any reader has really invested a lot of time into following. But there we are, with this minor plot happening and it's supposed to be important and be our major focus from now on, but compared to what could be taking place? It isn't very intriguing at all.
This story was ok, but I wanted it to be great. I kept waiting for it to be great. In my eyes it could have been, but fell short. But you know what really gnaws at me? The real interesting stuff is mentioned at the end of the book! Just when I can't let this book go (finally!) I'm already at the 90% mark of the book. So this is where I'm left feeling the real disappointment. Three books, and it's only the beginning! But actually, it's the end. Clever, cruel or unintentional? And I loved Detective Lammas! Why, oh why is he introduced at the end of book 3? That's a guy I would want to read more about, I want to know this badass good guy's story! But will his story ever be told? I hope so, because despite all the things that didn't work for me the premise of the complete(?) series is great and imaginative and if anyone could do it justice and let me know what happens to that Detective it would be the author who created it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2020
Well, this one was strange in that a lot happened except that nothing really happened. The team figure out ways to wrap up their case for the most part and travel some, meet some other people and find out that bad stuff could be happening in the future. All-in-all when it was done I was wondering where the rest of the book was. It felt like there was no meat to it.
Doesn't matter though, because I am going to keep going unless it actually gets bad. I feel invested for some reason.
Doesn't matter though, because I am going to keep going unless it actually gets bad. I feel invested for some reason.
September 8, 2018
Rating: 3.75. I was recently reminded that I started--but didn't finish--this series. Since I gave the previous two books 4 stars, I thought it was worth investing in book #3. It's been long enough since I read both books that I ended up having to skim books 1 and 2 to remind myself of the finer details of this story. Which was fun--both books were well-paced, full of interesting characters, and were a fun mixture of action, heat, and humor. :)
This book was more of the same. Without sharing any spoilers, there wasn't a lot of development. Yes, we learn a little bit more about Bennu here, but that's about it. It wasn't a bad read, but at the same time, I'm not dying to read the next book in the series either, you know?
I'll likely read the blurbs for the other three books in this series and make a decision soon about whether I'm going to read them or not.
This book was more of the same. Without sharing any spoilers, there wasn't a lot of development. Yes, we learn a little bit more about Bennu here, but that's about it. It wasn't a bad read, but at the same time, I'm not dying to read the next book in the series either, you know?
I'll likely read the blurbs for the other three books in this series and make a decision soon about whether I'm going to read them or not.
September 6, 2016
I got really freaking excited when i found this book on Amazon. Luckily we did not have to wait a year for the 'ending' of Aberrant Magic.
This series have become a one-click buy for me, even though the first book was not as strong as the other two.
So Kavon and Darren are back, and their Talent Team Unit is still trying to solve the trafficking case from book 2, and catch O'Brien for his heinous crimes against adepts in order to help Cruz gain power.
Kavon has taken Cruz's place on the council, and the Egyptians have decided that he is the next King (for lack of a better word) since they believe his spirit guide is one of the ifrit.
All in all Kavon is covered in politics and policies he has no interest in.
"Politics. Everyone could talk about zombies causing the apocalypse, but as far as Kavon was concerned, politics was a more likely suspect. At least you could shoot a zombie in the head."*snort*
Meanwhile Darren is trying to figure out how to work with Bennu, without blowing up crystals, streets and Kavon.
"He can be offended, but he shouldn't eat Salma's guide"
There is still a lot of tension on the team after the betrayal of Traci, and Rima is struggeling since she backed Traci in the campaign against Darren. It still irritates me that the Ben-situation is put on Darren. Kavon should have fucking stepped up, and done something, especially since it turned out that Ben was a douche and doing everything to alienate Darren to the team (with Traci as a backer). But Darren is a good guy with a lot of self-awareness, and he works hard to make everyone get along and get the problems out in the open (compared to Kavon who ignores everything not case-related and Darren-and-Kavon-relationship-related.)
And not only this, but they also have an Egyptian liaison (Salma) with -maybe- her own agenda and a new mundane on the team (Boyd) who needs to learn everything magic.
The team and Darren and Kavon are stressed to say the least.
I was afraid that this book would be too much politics and sub-plots, but it ended up being a great 'ending' to the cases started in books 1 and 2. Seriously SOOOOOO much is explained and spelled out in regards to spirit guides, the ifrit, the use of magic and the Purge. I freaking loved it!
Also the humor... It's not that I was laughing ALL the time, but there were quite a few chuckles and snorts throughout this, which was a really nice addition to a book where you had to keep your brain activated for the 'complicated' parts.
There is not a lot of sexy times, but the sexy times that are there, were hot, and I loved that Darren and Kavon ALWAYS put the case first, they don't stop mid-negotiation or mid-work to get it on.
Respect for Lyn Gala for being true to her characters, and keeping with the personalities she has built for Darren and Kavon; everything was well thought-out and coherent.
I'm pretty sure this is not the end of Aberrant magic, this book ends with a HFN for Darren and Kavon, but there is a whole bucket of new plots and stories to explore.
The 'evil' spirit guides, Bennu's guilt, Zach and Art (man I hope these two get a book, they were freaking awesome! GO Zack!!) Salma and the Egyptian agenda, the Native American's magic (sub-plot, but would be pretty awesome to get some of their stories) and the work for the Talent Team to get out of their bad reputation.
The reason this is not a 5 star read is the responsibility put on Darren for the Ben-situation and
But the rest of the book AND the series was awesome, and I'm pretty sure I will read it again.
I will not hesitate if a new Aberrant Magic book arrives, this shit has become a one-click buy for me.
This series have become a one-click buy for me, even though the first book was not as strong as the other two.
So Kavon and Darren are back, and their Talent Team Unit is still trying to solve the trafficking case from book 2, and catch O'Brien for his heinous crimes against adepts in order to help Cruz gain power.
Kavon has taken Cruz's place on the council, and the Egyptians have decided that he is the next King (for lack of a better word) since they believe his spirit guide is one of the ifrit.
All in all Kavon is covered in politics and policies he has no interest in.
"Politics. Everyone could talk about zombies causing the apocalypse, but as far as Kavon was concerned, politics was a more likely suspect. At least you could shoot a zombie in the head."*snort*
Meanwhile Darren is trying to figure out how to work with Bennu, without blowing up crystals, streets and Kavon.
"He can be offended, but he shouldn't eat Salma's guide"
There is still a lot of tension on the team after the betrayal of Traci, and Rima is struggeling since she backed Traci in the campaign against Darren. It still irritates me that the Ben-situation is put on Darren. Kavon should have fucking stepped up, and done something, especially since it turned out that Ben was a douche and doing everything to alienate Darren to the team (with Traci as a backer). But Darren is a good guy with a lot of self-awareness, and he works hard to make everyone get along and get the problems out in the open (compared to Kavon who ignores everything not case-related and Darren-and-Kavon-relationship-related.)
And not only this, but they also have an Egyptian liaison (Salma) with -maybe- her own agenda and a new mundane on the team (Boyd) who needs to learn everything magic.
The team and Darren and Kavon are stressed to say the least.
I was afraid that this book would be too much politics and sub-plots, but it ended up being a great 'ending' to the cases started in books 1 and 2. Seriously SOOOOOO much is explained and spelled out in regards to spirit guides, the ifrit, the use of magic and the Purge. I freaking loved it!
Also the humor... It's not that I was laughing ALL the time, but there were quite a few chuckles and snorts throughout this, which was a really nice addition to a book where you had to keep your brain activated for the 'complicated' parts.
There is not a lot of sexy times, but the sexy times that are there, were hot, and I loved that Darren and Kavon ALWAYS put the case first, they don't stop mid-negotiation or mid-work to get it on.
Respect for Lyn Gala for being true to her characters, and keeping with the personalities she has built for Darren and Kavon; everything was well thought-out and coherent.
I'm pretty sure this is not the end of Aberrant magic, this book ends with a HFN for Darren and Kavon, but there is a whole bucket of new plots and stories to explore.
The 'evil' spirit guides, Bennu's guilt, Zach and Art (man I hope these two get a book, they were freaking awesome! GO Zack!!) Salma and the Egyptian agenda, the Native American's magic (sub-plot, but would be pretty awesome to get some of their stories) and the work for the Talent Team to get out of their bad reputation.
The reason this is not a 5 star read is the responsibility put on Darren for the Ben-situation and
But the rest of the book AND the series was awesome, and I'm pretty sure I will read it again.
I will not hesitate if a new Aberrant Magic book arrives, this shit has become a one-click buy for me.
February 7, 2017
Fast paced third book to the Aberrant Magic series brings forth a horrifying secret. Kavon and Darren's relationship has been a rollercoaster. They finally seem to be settling into an understanding. Their magic dynamic is still way off. Darren still does things he shouldn't be able to do. He is also still in danger as O'Brien is still at large, specifically eluding law enforcement in Canada. Kavon is furious and insists to be part of the capture team only to be sidelined. Politics at play only make for a cranky Kavon.
Expecting this to be the final book in the series, there seems to be several threads left hanging. Hopefully this means another book will be forthcoming. I digress. The world as Kavon and Darren know it is evolving. Specifically, the spirit guides are more than just spirit guides. The reader learns how Darren has been picked. It has a lot to do with Kavon. It is a bit mind blowing as to how the spirit guides originally interacted with humans and more specifically, why they left the world. This decision is absolute in some ways and may be a bit too extreme for those who need a Disney happily ever ending. For those who enjoy foreign movies, the angsty French and Chinese movies, this decision made by the spirit guides make sense.
Whilst this is going on, there is a criminal to capture, political waters to maneuver and a dysfunctional "coven" to disband. There are several subplots going on which is what makes this story enjoyable. There is no boring lag time. Kavon and Darren are hopping from one situation to the next. They do tie together quite nicely and gives the story more depth. It also keeps a reader's interest engaged as we wonder what will happen next.
Where there is no question is the sexy time between Kavon and Darren. Darren can sometimes be a little whiny, playing into a stereotype for gay men. Ms. Gala does it well so that it doesn't become annoying. It is amusing and when Kavon takes Darren to task, it is delicious. The sexual chemistry between Kavon and Darren is smoking hawt. They light the sheets on fire. Ms. Gala certainly knows how to turn on the heat. Then she ends this story with a shocking cold shower.
The ending leaves a reader hanging. There are several questions that remain open. It feels as if this world is unfinished and there is still more story to tell. I can only hope there is another follow up book to this series. Kavon and Darren plus the rest of their Scooby gang are quirky and fun. This paranormal romance is recommended to m/m readers who enjoy magic, mystery and mayhem.
November 7, 2018
another good book in this series. I like the dynamic of the team and of Kavon and Darren.
the story was very well done
the story was very well done
March 11, 2017
3.5
I'm still really enjoying the series and read this through in one sitting, but like some other reviewers, I did not like this book quite as much as the first two. The relationship dynamics and paranormal setting are still great, but there was not the same sense of climax or new development, though I did like the two new characters who are introduced, and appreciated Lyn Gala's inclusion of not one but two Muslim characters who had quite different backgrounds and relationships to their faith.
Finishing this up, I was sure it couldn't be the final volume of the series: if I was wrong about that, then I have to say the book pretty much failed in its job to draw the series to a satisfying conclusion. However, I will hold out for more books in what has turned out to be a really well-written, entertaining and representationally inclusive paranormal series.
I'm still really enjoying the series and read this through in one sitting, but like some other reviewers, I did not like this book quite as much as the first two. The relationship dynamics and paranormal setting are still great, but there was not the same sense of climax or new development, though I did like the two new characters who are introduced, and appreciated Lyn Gala's inclusion of not one but two Muslim characters who had quite different backgrounds and relationships to their faith.
Finishing this up, I was sure it couldn't be the final volume of the series: if I was wrong about that, then I have to say the book pretty much failed in its job to draw the series to a satisfying conclusion. However, I will hold out for more books in what has turned out to be a really well-written, entertaining and representationally inclusive paranormal series.
June 17, 2021
This series has some very unique world building aspects that I really like. I am really enjoying the Shaman aspects of the story. This one really delves into the magical politics which I admit I didn't like as much. However, what I did really like was the growth in the relationship between Kavon and Darren. I also liked that the fact that one of their teammates was a traitor in the last book wasn't just swept away but the characters were still dealing with how that affected them. We get new teammates in this book and they are interesting but even more interesting were the two detectives that we meet in this book. I hope we see more of them.
The case from the last book wraps up and it does it quicker and with less fanfare then I expected. This book seemed a little bit like a set-up book for what is to come in the magical aspects but still had enough to keep me interested. Definitely a series I plan to continue reading.
The case from the last book wraps up and it does it quicker and with less fanfare then I expected. This book seemed a little bit like a set-up book for what is to come in the magical aspects but still had enough to keep me interested. Definitely a series I plan to continue reading.
September 4, 2016
2.5 (3.0) stars
My least favorite of the series. I thought the book was slow moving and the plot resolutions (e.g, O'Brien) were anticlimactic. There were a few loose ends (evil ifrits and agent finley's dickishness). Lastly, Darren's holier-than-thou attitude grated and I found his martyrdom unattractive. It's one thing to want to be a martyr (yuck) but it's another to sit in judgment of those who don't. (Super yuck!)
Bottom line: I'm a Lyn Gala fan and I enjoyed this series; I just didn't care for this book.
My least favorite of the series. I thought the book was slow moving and the plot resolutions (e.g, O'Brien) were anticlimactic. There were a few loose ends (evil ifrits and agent finley's dickishness). Lastly, Darren's holier-than-thou attitude grated and I found his martyrdom unattractive. It's one thing to want to be a martyr (yuck) but it's another to sit in judgment of those who don't. (Super yuck!)
Bottom line: I'm a Lyn Gala fan and I enjoyed this series; I just didn't care for this book.
January 17, 2022
I love how the relationship between these two isn't perfect but still grows as they adjust to the realities of their responsibilities. And now there are others to enjoy -- I just have to get to book 6 to see how they're adjusting to their new reality!
October 8, 2016
OK this series just got really interesting, I know it was earmarked as a trilogy but there HAS to e more
November 23, 2017
3.5 stars
This book closes some loose ends from the previous ones and sets up interesting developments for the rest of the series.
The new characters seem very promising, especially , but I also liked Boyd, the new teammember, and Salma.
This book closes some loose ends from the previous ones and sets up interesting developments for the rest of the series.
The new characters seem very promising, especially , but I also liked Boyd, the new teammember, and Salma.
April 28, 2022
4.5 stars
I really liked characters! Despite not wanting to get into politics, Darren, Kavon, and the team have been dragged in. Things are afoot in the spirit plane and rules are changing. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the series!
I really liked characters! Despite not wanting to get into politics, Darren, Kavon, and the team have been dragged in. Things are afoot in the spirit plane and rules are changing. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the series!
June 30, 2023
Some parts were kind of confusing to me. I have an inability to visualize things so excessive descriptions of fantastical things can be difficult for me to follow.
January 29, 2017
his is the 3rd book in the Aberrant Magic series and I was excited for it. I figured – finally Kavon and Darren get to have their showdown with o’Brien. I mean, that’s what they’ve been leading up to for 2 books. As a reader I needed that showdown.
Unfortunately, it fell flat. 48% of the way through the book, they had the fight, but it was missing the bad guy. The faceoff I wanted since book one never happened.
Talk about a letdown. Plus, I wondered what the rest of the book would be about. The event was done – how would the next half of the book play out? The members of the Talent team were intent on the other case they talked about in book 2 –all the kidnappings. One mention was made that there was information about it in o’Brien’s computer which totally and utterly confused me – when was o’Brien involved and why wasn’t that tied together before? The spell caster for the new enemy was really good and kept tripping them up. But at the end event, it was like they all said “Okay, that’s done- NEXT!” and moved on without dealing with the anger and catharsis that had to come from it all. Les’s “Go, team Talent” didn’t do the job. I wanted to feel that they at least felt something.
The main thing that saved the latter part of the book for me was the introduction of Lammas and Johnson. I liked Johnson and the introduction of Huitzilopochtli. Gotta love Hui the hummingbird. But the book unfortunately felt like a group of events with a tenuous tie between them. As if it was a novella and a bunch of smaller stories got smashed together with it to call it a novel. And we got HUGE buildups to the events and instead of seeing the event unfold, we were told about it after the fact.
HUGE LET DOWNS.
The gathering of the entire Talent team in El Paso made absolutely no sense. Salma could have joined Kavon and Darren on the spirit plane from DC instead of flying to Texas with Ahtisham and Les. So why did they come? I so needed a reason since they came AFTER the sting and none was supplied.
And last – the sex scenes didn’t make a lot of sense. Especially the last one. One moment Darren collapsed onto the sofa. Then he got up from the bed. Then Kavon lay down on the sofa and Darren started a massage. The massage turned sexual. They orgasmed and then… the next moment they were in bed? Uh… have they started teleporting from the sofa to the bed and back?
The first two books were much better.
3 stars. And it only got that high because I adore Bennu and now Hui.
Reviewed by a-nony-mouse for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
Unfortunately, it fell flat. 48% of the way through the book, they had the fight, but it was missing the bad guy. The faceoff I wanted since book one never happened.
Talk about a letdown. Plus, I wondered what the rest of the book would be about. The event was done – how would the next half of the book play out? The members of the Talent team were intent on the other case they talked about in book 2 –all the kidnappings. One mention was made that there was information about it in o’Brien’s computer which totally and utterly confused me – when was o’Brien involved and why wasn’t that tied together before? The spell caster for the new enemy was really good and kept tripping them up. But at the end event, it was like they all said “Okay, that’s done- NEXT!” and moved on without dealing with the anger and catharsis that had to come from it all. Les’s “Go, team Talent” didn’t do the job. I wanted to feel that they at least felt something.
The main thing that saved the latter part of the book for me was the introduction of Lammas and Johnson. I liked Johnson and the introduction of Huitzilopochtli. Gotta love Hui the hummingbird. But the book unfortunately felt like a group of events with a tenuous tie between them. As if it was a novella and a bunch of smaller stories got smashed together with it to call it a novel. And we got HUGE buildups to the events and instead of seeing the event unfold, we were told about it after the fact.
HUGE LET DOWNS.
The gathering of the entire Talent team in El Paso made absolutely no sense. Salma could have joined Kavon and Darren on the spirit plane from DC instead of flying to Texas with Ahtisham and Les. So why did they come? I so needed a reason since they came AFTER the sting and none was supplied.
And last – the sex scenes didn’t make a lot of sense. Especially the last one. One moment Darren collapsed onto the sofa. Then he got up from the bed. Then Kavon lay down on the sofa and Darren started a massage. The massage turned sexual. They orgasmed and then… the next moment they were in bed? Uh… have they started teleporting from the sofa to the bed and back?
The first two books were much better.
3 stars. And it only got that high because I adore Bennu and now Hui.
Reviewed by a-nony-mouse for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
September 15, 2016
Quite a disappointment. The quality dropped with each books. Several times I put down the book because I was getting bored. I can't give 5 stars to this book because:
-There's too many talk about Ifrit and shaman mythology and politics but not enough action. Yes, believe it, there's less action than in the previous book.
-Although Darren regains a bit of his personality, he's still there to play Kavon's sidekick. Kavon experience as a shaman isn't an excuse to let Darren be a bystander in his own story ! After two books (almost 2 months in the story) Darren hasn't started to train to control his new power, and doesn't seem to want to know more about Bennu and why he was chosen by him. Darren is still happy to follow Kavon like a good soldier. It's only at 50% of the book that he wakes up and decides to control his power... I find the narrative choices strange. First book is about Darren and how he got his new power. Second book we have mainly Kavon pov and Darren becomes a secondary character, unfortunately. Then in book 3 we have egal povs. But on the whole I feel I read more about Kavon povs than Darren who's supposed to be the one going through a life changing event...
-Too many repetitions: how the team cohesion was strained because of Darren and Ben conflict, how Kavon the badass is difficult and doesn't like politics, how Darren is the lead-back one and knows how to conciliate with others teams... We get the characters personalities, no need to repeat it again and again !
--Anticlimactic end for the bad guy at 50% of the story ! Then we followed a case we only heard about previously. And of course thanks to Bennu, this huge and hard case to crack is quite easily resolve at the end of the book...
Overall it feels like Lyn Gala didn't know what to do with this trilogy. Two books should have been enough if she got straight to the point and stop the repetitive explanations.
-There's too many talk about Ifrit and shaman mythology and politics but not enough action. Yes, believe it, there's less action than in the previous book.
-Although Darren regains a bit of his personality, he's still there to play Kavon's sidekick. Kavon experience as a shaman isn't an excuse to let Darren be a bystander in his own story ! After two books (almost 2 months in the story) Darren hasn't started to train to control his new power, and doesn't seem to want to know more about Bennu and why he was chosen by him. Darren is still happy to follow Kavon like a good soldier. It's only at 50% of the book that he wakes up and decides to control his power... I find the narrative choices strange. First book is about Darren and how he got his new power. Second book we have mainly Kavon pov and Darren becomes a secondary character, unfortunately. Then in book 3 we have egal povs. But on the whole I feel I read more about Kavon povs than Darren who's supposed to be the one going through a life changing event...
-Too many repetitions: how the team cohesion was strained because of Darren and Ben conflict, how Kavon the badass is difficult and doesn't like politics, how Darren is the lead-back one and knows how to conciliate with others teams... We get the characters personalities, no need to repeat it again and again !
--Anticlimactic end for the bad guy at 50% of the story ! Then we followed a case we only heard about previously. And of course thanks to Bennu, this huge and hard case to crack is quite easily resolve at the end of the book...
Overall it feels like Lyn Gala didn't know what to do with this trilogy. Two books should have been enough if she got straight to the point and stop the repetitive explanations.
June 21, 2018
And this is the book where I give up because this series is obviously not for me even if I want to love it so, so much. I skimmed parts, but I read most of it, so. I just am still not really loving Kavon and Darren as a couple even if there's nobody else for them, they're basically magically bonded, so on and so forth. I just... I just don't think Kavon deserves Darren, even if it's a bit irrational, haha. And I still hate how Bennu is kind of thrown around and is used as some sort of giant stick to bat their enemies with and you know more about him, but it's just in the context of how the entire plot is going to start unfolding. That's not getting to know Bennu as an individual, that's just getting to know Bennu as an ifrit and ifrits overall.
I liked how Darren was perking up and trying to get back into the groove of things, but I hated how he still doesn't know much about his powers. I also hated how Bennu keeps helping Kavon out and Darren is just sort of... the guy who is bonded with Bennu and that's why he's useful. Not because he's Darren but because without Darren there's no Bennu or something. IDK. It's not wholly rational, but it is what it is.
The book also dragged a lot in parts. The main bad guy gets wrapped up earlier than you expect as well and then off to a new plot that just... kind of side tracks into a new couple and oh wow, another ifrit. Except no, I do NOT want another ifrit around, Darren hasn't even gotten his legs under him with Bennu and now there's this other pairing that I vaguely like, but I don't want to dump an ifrit on (even if the ifrit is mega cute). Sigh. So well written, but obviously a series not for me, which is a shame because I like some of the author's other books quite a bit.
I liked how Darren was perking up and trying to get back into the groove of things, but I hated how he still doesn't know much about his powers. I also hated how Bennu keeps helping Kavon out and Darren is just sort of... the guy who is bonded with Bennu and that's why he's useful. Not because he's Darren but because without Darren there's no Bennu or something. IDK. It's not wholly rational, but it is what it is.
The book also dragged a lot in parts. The main bad guy gets wrapped up earlier than you expect as well and then off to a new plot that just... kind of side tracks into a new couple and oh wow, another ifrit. Except no, I do NOT want another ifrit around, Darren hasn't even gotten his legs under him with Bennu and now there's this other pairing that I vaguely like, but I don't want to dump an ifrit on (even if the ifrit is mega cute). Sigh. So well written, but obviously a series not for me, which is a shame because I like some of the author's other books quite a bit.
December 15, 2016
*Update*
Please disregard review below. There is a 4th book In this series!
Everything I just whined about below no longer applies :)
With that said, I'm changing my rating to 5 stars. Everything I'm all wound up about will more than likely be addressed in the fourth installment. I CANNOT WAIT!
I should re write my review but why? After all, i am looking forward to having my questions answered Lol.
This such a great series. It started with a bang. I loved everything about the world Gala built.
It hurts to love a series so much and be let down by the final book. If this is supposed to be the last book then there shouldn't be so many loose ends! I'm so bitterly disappointed about that. I want more. I wasn't answers. I want story lines for new / intriguing characters introduced and abandoned simply because this is the last book.
You know that feeling when you're dying to sneeze and the pressure builds and builds and just when you're about to sneeze the feeling disappears, you don't sneeze and you're left feeling uncomfortable? That's what this last book just did to me. This was a book tease and I feel so used.
On the other hand if Gala continues with the series I'm on board for more. The universe, the characters and the infinite possibilities are just too rich to abandon prematurely.
Please disregard review below. There is a 4th book In this series!
Everything I just whined about below no longer applies :)
With that said, I'm changing my rating to 5 stars. Everything I'm all wound up about will more than likely be addressed in the fourth installment. I CANNOT WAIT!
I should re write my review but why? After all, i am looking forward to having my questions answered Lol.
This such a great series. It started with a bang. I loved everything about the world Gala built.
It hurts to love a series so much and be let down by the final book. If this is supposed to be the last book then there shouldn't be so many loose ends! I'm so bitterly disappointed about that. I want more. I wasn't answers. I want story lines for new / intriguing characters introduced and abandoned simply because this is the last book.
You know that feeling when you're dying to sneeze and the pressure builds and builds and just when you're about to sneeze the feeling disappears, you don't sneeze and you're left feeling uncomfortable? That's what this last book just did to me. This was a book tease and I feel so used.
On the other hand if Gala continues with the series I'm on board for more. The universe, the characters and the infinite possibilities are just too rich to abandon prematurely.
September 18, 2016
This is the third book featuring FBI Agents Kavon and Darren of the 'talent' unit as they try to catch a serial killer who is targeting young magic users. As a partnership the pair are now settled in, but the Egyptians feel that Kavon is destined to be a shamanic leader and there is a lot of politics to deal with - which Kavon isn't a fan of.
For the last book in what I though was a trilogy I was disappointed. There are way too many loose ends to be tied up - not really for the main pairing but the whole world building set up. there were also a few new characters introduced in the story who appear to have more to say.
I am hopeful this won't be the last in this series as the whole thing felt a little incomplete
For the last book in what I though was a trilogy I was disappointed. There are way too many loose ends to be tied up - not really for the main pairing but the whole world building set up. there were also a few new characters introduced in the story who appear to have more to say.
I am hopeful this won't be the last in this series as the whole thing felt a little incomplete
September 2, 2016
This is a warmed up 3.5 stars.
There are many good points about this book but it's *uhm* a bit all over the place with regard to writing conventions regarding trilogies. And - understandably so - you go "But screw all those conventions!!" and I say yes, but there are laws of story telling and they do change over time but this actually felt like the end of part one. I'll be deliriously happy if that really is a serial instead of a trilogy but it's easier to adjust one's expectations if one is told in advance.
Anyhow, those are minor niggles. Good series, anyhow.
I'll take exception if this is actually the last book in the series. Seriously, I'll be miffed. Annoyed even.
There are many good points about this book but it's *uhm* a bit all over the place with regard to writing conventions regarding trilogies. And - understandably so - you go "But screw all those conventions!!" and I say yes, but there are laws of story telling and they do change over time but this actually felt like the end of part one. I'll be deliriously happy if that really is a serial instead of a trilogy but it's easier to adjust one's expectations if one is told in advance.
Anyhow, those are minor niggles. Good series, anyhow.
I'll take exception if this is actually the last book in the series. Seriously, I'll be miffed. Annoyed even.
May 17, 2022
When I am reading a series that consists of the same MCs throughout the series... I like it to stay that way... grrr
I can see the future (Ok, I read the blubs of the rest of the books) and the future is different MCs in 2 of the books. I am sure they are going to be perfectly good books, but that is NOT my point... grrr
As for this book? I felt the conflict in rebuilding the team was real and adding new team members is always an iffy situation. As Darren and Kavon's knowledge grows, so does the danger.
And can I just say, I want one of those massages! *grin*
I can see the future (Ok, I read the blubs of the rest of the books) and the future is different MCs in 2 of the books. I am sure they are going to be perfectly good books, but that is NOT my point... grrr
As for this book? I felt the conflict in rebuilding the team was real and adding new team members is always an iffy situation. As Darren and Kavon's knowledge grows, so does the danger.
And can I just say, I want one of those massages! *grin*
August 31, 2016
3.75 stars
Hmmm.. could this be more than a trilogy??
Hmmm.. could this be more than a trilogy??
September 4, 2016
I love this series, but I think of this book as the end of Act 1. The main case is finished, but there are a lot of hints for a bigger problem out there. Would be interesting to see the next act.
September 8, 2016
Not as good as the previous books, but still enjoyable.
September 12, 2016
Love Lyn Gala! Hope this series continues!
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