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Desert Cursed #4
Oracle's Haunt
The fourth installment of the best selling "Desert Cursed Series".
Hope is a four letter word. Yet, I can’t help but hope that the Oracle will be the answer to what I seek.
But getting to the Oracle is no small thing as she resides in the center of the Blasted lands—toxic waste, lava, and monsters. And as the alpha of our Pride, it’s up to me to act responsibly and not get my people all killed.
Driving us from behind comes the desert goddess whose rage is centered on me, and with her is a new ally, who still holds my heart in his hands. One whose voice calls to me still.
Eyes on the prize, I will push forward, even though hope feels weak and pointless. Along the way, maybe my heart will heal, maybe I’ll bring my brother back from the dead, maybe this will turn out okay after all.
Or maybe I will lose everything, and everyone I hold dear and discover I’m not meant to save anyone.
Hope might spring eternal, but she’s a right bitch as far as I can see.
Hope is a four letter word. Yet, I can’t help but hope that the Oracle will be the answer to what I seek.
But getting to the Oracle is no small thing as she resides in the center of the Blasted lands—toxic waste, lava, and monsters. And as the alpha of our Pride, it’s up to me to act responsibly and not get my people all killed.
Driving us from behind comes the desert goddess whose rage is centered on me, and with her is a new ally, who still holds my heart in his hands. One whose voice calls to me still.
Eyes on the prize, I will push forward, even though hope feels weak and pointless. Along the way, maybe my heart will heal, maybe I’ll bring my brother back from the dead, maybe this will turn out okay after all.
Or maybe I will lose everything, and everyone I hold dear and discover I’m not meant to save anyone.
Hope might spring eternal, but she’s a right bitch as far as I can see.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2018
1915 people are currently reading
1404 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Mayer
153 books7,294 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
April 21, 2023
Oh Zamira, Zamira I absolutely love you!
Another fabulously tasty book, another filled with emotions of excitement, sadness, pain, hope - you name it, it's there... and Zam is right at the front leading their way... what a girl/cat!
This book, however, also stole my breath at one point! I sat with my mouth open and possibly a pretty shocked expression on my face as I soaked in the words in front of me. I read the line a few times and just thought 'wow, I never even considered that'.... amazing but bloody shocking!!!
Still on her journey, Zamira is growing in strength, both as a character and within her character. Ms Mayer has developed this female Alpha into one of courage and hope and I love this, I love the way the story is progressing.
The next leg of Zam's journey will be interesting (again) to see how things go and what develops and I can't wait to get stuck in!!!!
Another fabulously tasty book, another filled with emotions of excitement, sadness, pain, hope - you name it, it's there... and Zam is right at the front leading their way... what a girl/cat!
This book, however, also stole my breath at one point! I sat with my mouth open and possibly a pretty shocked expression on my face as I soaked in the words in front of me. I read the line a few times and just thought 'wow, I never even considered that'.... amazing but bloody shocking!!!
Still on her journey, Zamira is growing in strength, both as a character and within her character. Ms Mayer has developed this female Alpha into one of courage and hope and I love this, I love the way the story is progressing.
The next leg of Zam's journey will be interesting (again) to see how things go and what develops and I can't wait to get stuck in!!!!
March 15, 2019
Oracle’s Haunt starts off where Jinn's Dominion ends.
Zam and her pack are on their way to the Oracle. They need some answers that only the Oracle can give them.
Zam can’t catch a break. She is thrown into one action-packed disaster after another. Their was a lot of jumping around from one situation to another. It was a little overwhelming and I can’t understand how Zam can deal with it all. We did get some things revealed about her, but she and use don’t have time to think or understand the information give.
I am heartbroken about Maks, her mate of the soul. In the last book he sacrificed himself. In this one he pops back up, but he’s no longer the man she knew so, Zam is hurting. She has to deal with it, but has no time to sort out her feelings; because she’s moving from one issue to the next.
I will say I’m tired of Steve and can’t understand why Zam didn’t get ride of him sooner, but I’m glad that he’s gone and hope he doesn’t come back. Though I have a feeling he'll pop back up.
I wish the plot would progress a little more. I feel we are moving away from our goal instead of towards it. We don’t see much happening except a lot of action, but that’s because Zam’s thrown into one disaster situation after another.
I like this action-packed Urban Fantasy series. The characters are hilarious and fun. Lila and Zam make a great team.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
Zam and her pack are on their way to the Oracle. They need some answers that only the Oracle can give them.
Zam can’t catch a break. She is thrown into one action-packed disaster after another. Their was a lot of jumping around from one situation to another. It was a little overwhelming and I can’t understand how Zam can deal with it all. We did get some things revealed about her, but she and use don’t have time to think or understand the information give.
I am heartbroken about Maks, her mate of the soul. In the last book he sacrificed himself. In this one he pops back up, but he’s no longer the man she knew so, Zam is hurting. She has to deal with it, but has no time to sort out her feelings; because she’s moving from one issue to the next.
I will say I’m tired of Steve and can’t understand why Zam didn’t get ride of him sooner, but I’m glad that he’s gone and hope he doesn’t come back. Though I have a feeling he'll pop back up.
I wish the plot would progress a little more. I feel we are moving away from our goal instead of towards it. We don’t see much happening except a lot of action, but that’s because Zam’s thrown into one disaster situation after another.
I like this action-packed Urban Fantasy series. The characters are hilarious and fun. Lila and Zam make a great team.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
June 6, 2025
Zam is literally THE fantasy Fmc.
May 26, 2022
Ok, I give up.
I don't like these characters.
I don't like the story.
I don't like this writing.
I don't like this series.
I do like the premises though, the idea (maybe because I read the parent-series), but I give up on this specific series.
I'll definitely read the author again, maybe next time I'll find something better.
Idk how to end this review, I'm too disappointed, so here's a random cute cat eating a watermelon.
I don't like these characters.
I don't like the story.
I don't like this writing.
I don't like this series.
I do like the premises though, the idea (maybe because I read the parent-series), but I give up on this specific series.
I'll definitely read the author again, maybe next time I'll find something better.
Idk how to end this review, I'm too disappointed, so here's a random cute cat eating a watermelon.
February 29, 2020
*Reread Review*
Upping this to 4.5-5 stars. I'm continuing the series via Audible and I continue to have the same problems with some of the characterizations performed by the narrator. However.. After this reread I had to up the star power on this. I can't believe... I'm wondering how I ever made it through to this point before and then had to stop for the next books in the series without doing someone serious harm. Major freaking cliffhanger here at the end like almost all the books but this one comes after the freshest of wounds to my heart.
I can't believe I had forgotten we almost lost our truest sister! *Face Palm* I mean I teared up in the last book when our heart seemed lost but this.. this was the real freaking deal. Family... Whew making me tear up just thinking about it. I'm not sure how I've waited so long to finally finish this series but that stops right this freaking minute!
Zam and fam journey to find the Oracle and of course there is nothing but freaking trouble on the way.. if not from the other "chess" players than the freaking sheep effer himself. I mean how is it freaking possible to be such a bad freaking apple.. How does anyone put up with that crap! I can't wait till he freaking gets his.. Its coming I know it is. Surely the author isn't going to leave this mess. It seems Ishtar has teamed up with Marsum here.. its just so freaking hard to figure out who the real bad guy is.. they all seem bad. Can't wait to continue this series.
*Original Review*
I love this series!! These characters are so hilarious! Lila and Zam are the most awesome team!
Zam is still on her quest but this time Maks is lost to his ancestors. It was so heartbreaking! Its just not in her to leave behind someone she loves. I will say this right now....If Steve doesn't freaking get his by the end of this series heads will roll! I am sick and tired of that sheep lover, I honestly don't think I have hated a book character this much ever...for real! I am beginning to think he is gonna scrape by unscathed and that is just not cool. Every scene he is in makes me want to barf...Like Ford in the swamp.
I do feel that the goal is getting farther and farther away instead of us moving toward it, though the journey is great I hope it doesn't drag out for to much longer. Poor Zam has already been through so much, we definitely need some wins and some info! Can't wait to see where the "crossroads" takes us!
Upping this to 4.5-5 stars. I'm continuing the series via Audible and I continue to have the same problems with some of the characterizations performed by the narrator. However.. After this reread I had to up the star power on this. I can't believe... I'm wondering how I ever made it through to this point before and then had to stop for the next books in the series without doing someone serious harm. Major freaking cliffhanger here at the end like almost all the books but this one comes after the freshest of wounds to my heart.
I can't believe I had forgotten we almost lost our truest sister! *Face Palm* I mean I teared up in the last book when our heart seemed lost but this.. this was the real freaking deal. Family... Whew making me tear up just thinking about it. I'm not sure how I've waited so long to finally finish this series but that stops right this freaking minute!
Zam and fam journey to find the Oracle and of course there is nothing but freaking trouble on the way.. if not from the other "chess" players than the freaking sheep effer himself. I mean how is it freaking possible to be such a bad freaking apple.. How does anyone put up with that crap! I can't wait till he freaking gets his.. Its coming I know it is. Surely the author isn't going to leave this mess. It seems Ishtar has teamed up with Marsum here.. its just so freaking hard to figure out who the real bad guy is.. they all seem bad. Can't wait to continue this series.
*Original Review*
I love this series!! These characters are so hilarious! Lila and Zam are the most awesome team!
Zam is still on her quest but this time Maks is lost to his ancestors. It was so heartbreaking! Its just not in her to leave behind someone she loves. I will say this right now....If Steve doesn't freaking get his by the end of this series heads will roll! I am sick and tired of that sheep lover, I honestly don't think I have hated a book character this much ever...for real! I am beginning to think he is gonna scrape by unscathed and that is just not cool. Every scene he is in makes me want to barf...Like Ford in the swamp.
I do feel that the goal is getting farther and farther away instead of us moving toward it, though the journey is great I hope it doesn't drag out for to much longer. Poor Zam has already been through so much, we definitely need some wins and some info! Can't wait to see where the "crossroads" takes us!
March 6, 2019
Is love a tender thingI got really teary eyed with this book. So many feelers! I laughed my butt off in the first one and cried in this one. I want to say this one is my favorite, but like Zam, I love them all.
Now, we wait for #5
November 6, 2018
This book, where to start? Zam is just as badass as always, maybe even more so now. I love that she is strong, but she also has her meltdowns like anyone else. The men in her life are strong as well, and now I am torn between rooting for Ford or hoping that somehow Maks returns. This series will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is full of action. The battles that Zam must fight are getting harder and harder for her to win. I love that when Zam seems ready to give up, her friends give her the boost that she needs to step up and face down even the worst of her enemies. And I thought the Jinn were bad, the enemies in this book are much nastier than the Jinn. Not that the Jinn are done with Zam, but now they have to get in line.
I mean how could you go wrong with a smart-mouthed dragon as your best friend? The Oracle's Haunt takes the reader on a journey to some truly nasty places. So bad that the desert looks good by comparison and if you have read any of the other books in the series you would know that the desert is not such a nice place either. If you have not read the other books I highly recommend you pick them up, you will not regret it.
This book and the entire series will be loved by people that love fantasy, action and adventure and a touch of romance. You also need to be able to handle some foul language since Zam does not hold back.
I mean how could you go wrong with a smart-mouthed dragon as your best friend? The Oracle's Haunt takes the reader on a journey to some truly nasty places. So bad that the desert looks good by comparison and if you have read any of the other books in the series you would know that the desert is not such a nice place either. If you have not read the other books I highly recommend you pick them up, you will not regret it.
This book and the entire series will be loved by people that love fantasy, action and adventure and a touch of romance. You also need to be able to handle some foul language since Zam does not hold back.
February 3, 2019
4.5 stars!
November 7, 2018
WOW just when you think it can't get any better you get blown off your feet by the next book and this is what this did to me! A fantastic series with awesome characters this latest addition has twists and turns that you will not see coming and you will be glued to the book until you finish as I was! I absolutely love Zam and Lila and have to say this series is the best I've read this year so I totally recommend it!
November 8, 2018
Zam is back with her friends, and more than a couple additions. Her heart is freshly broken and she is needing to heal but with the world at stake...she has no time to sit and mend.
Oracle's Haunt is a yet another fantastic addition to her Desert Cursed series. Zamira's curse seems to be in full effect as things just can't seem to go right for her and those around her. I love how this book flows. Zamira is dealing with a lot in her life, but in this book, she learns some new truths that she never knew. This story is a journey in so many ways and there are secrets here and there. Some are still hidden and others are being revealed piece by piece. I like the addition of new characters and what they are bringing to the story.
There isn't anything that I don't like about this story. There are drama, danger, jokes, quotes and some hints at romance. I love it. This series just keeps getting better and better.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I can't wait for the next book in this series! Shannon Mayer has done it yet again and I'm looking forward to the next leg of Zamira's journey.
Oracle's Haunt is a yet another fantastic addition to her Desert Cursed series. Zamira's curse seems to be in full effect as things just can't seem to go right for her and those around her. I love how this book flows. Zamira is dealing with a lot in her life, but in this book, she learns some new truths that she never knew. This story is a journey in so many ways and there are secrets here and there. Some are still hidden and others are being revealed piece by piece. I like the addition of new characters and what they are bringing to the story.
There isn't anything that I don't like about this story. There are drama, danger, jokes, quotes and some hints at romance. I love it. This series just keeps getting better and better.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I can't wait for the next book in this series! Shannon Mayer has done it yet again and I'm looking forward to the next leg of Zamira's journey.
August 2, 2019
The Emperor is wakening and the players are on the board. With Maks now taking a back seat, Zam is thrown more into chaos as every side tries to use her. She needs more allies and her path is arduous.
It is heartbreaking how she is no closer to her goal but her path is one of self discovery. She is loosely related to many of those she meets. Though wary, she accepts them into her pride with open arms.
Read by Tina
It is heartbreaking how she is no closer to her goal but her path is one of self discovery. She is loosely related to many of those she meets. Though wary, she accepts them into her pride with open arms.
Read by Tina
July 21, 2019
I got so tears eyed with this book. I hope we see more of Maks. Zam has really grown since the first book but it still seems like she doesn’t really know what she is doing with her powers. I can’t wait to see what happens next
August 2, 2021
Very good
I am enjoying this series so far. In true Mayer style, she mixes sorrow with hope, blending the concoction into a plot that almost moves too fast, though it paces itself in the only way this story can truly be told.
I am enjoying this series so far. In true Mayer style, she mixes sorrow with hope, blending the concoction into a plot that almost moves too fast, though it paces itself in the only way this story can truly be told.
February 27, 2020
DesertCursed4; 4.5 ⭐️
Aargh! More cackling! And a deeper MWAHHAHAH to boot! We have just about tick-tick-ticked over the top of the rollercoaster, and the vista is just a glimpse awa-eeeeeeeee!
Aargh! More cackling! And a deeper MWAHHAHAH to boot! We have just about tick-tick-ticked over the top of the rollercoaster, and the vista is just a glimpse awa-eeeeeeeee!
September 4, 2022
Really enjoying this series!
November 6, 2018
This series just gets better and better. Zamira is a wonderful anti-hero who is amassing a small troop of diverse and lovable comrades on her journey to save the world from the impending release of the caged emperor- a right evil bastard.
As Zamira matures she is learning to be less reckless and in this installment we find her taking the role of leader to all new levels.
The bonds between the characters is so heartfelt and deep, it is impossible not to get emotional while reading. But don’t worry, this book is anything but sappy. It is a rollercoaster of non-stop action, as is the trademark for Shannon Mayer’s books.
This one does not disappoint and you will not want to put it down, so do yourself a favor and schedule yourself a weekend in front of the fire (or beach, or garden, or wherever you love to read) and drink up this leg of Zam’s adventure!
As Zamira matures she is learning to be less reckless and in this installment we find her taking the role of leader to all new levels.
The bonds between the characters is so heartfelt and deep, it is impossible not to get emotional while reading. But don’t worry, this book is anything but sappy. It is a rollercoaster of non-stop action, as is the trademark for Shannon Mayer’s books.
This one does not disappoint and you will not want to put it down, so do yourself a favor and schedule yourself a weekend in front of the fire (or beach, or garden, or wherever you love to read) and drink up this leg of Zam’s adventure!
December 3, 2018
I like this world and it's characters but I need the story to progress a little more...
Love these covers tho, they get me every time!
Love these covers tho, they get me every time!
November 5, 2018
I’ve been a fan of the author since I read her Rylee series, and I will read just about anything she writes. This is the fourth book in this series, and I still feel that way. Zam, Lila, et al are on the run for most of this book, trying to reach the Oracle. What follows is plenty of non-stop action, revelations, and heartbreak, and I enjoyed almost every single minute. Lila is probably my favorite character of this whole series, but I really like the others as well. Now, Ford is trying to sneak in to my favorites, but I still hold out hope. (Sorry if that’s a little vague, but I try very hard not to spoil anything.) A great installment in a great series. I do highly recommend! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
June 26, 2019
Action packed
Soooo, another great story in Zam’s quest and we got a few resolutions as well.
As great as this story is, I’m kinda wondering if an end is in site. Zam has been on this journey for quite some time and if I’m reading he passage of time correctly, it’s been for better part of about 4-6 months. Is there an end in site,
I’m just hoping the next book provides a real resolution and that Mayer wraps things up sooner rather than later. The books are starting to feel a bit formulaic.
Soooo, another great story in Zam’s quest and we got a few resolutions as well.
As great as this story is, I’m kinda wondering if an end is in site. Zam has been on this journey for quite some time and if I’m reading he passage of time correctly, it’s been for better part of about 4-6 months. Is there an end in site,
I’m just hoping the next book provides a real resolution and that Mayer wraps things up sooner rather than later. The books are starting to feel a bit formulaic.
Read
October 14, 2024Zam, Zam, Zam what in all the realms is she going to do now? Book 4 of Shannon Mayer’s Desert Cursed series does not disappoint, we literally hit the pages running. Talk about a whirlwind mix of danger, adventure, and survival by the skin of their teeth (literally for some)! As Zam, Lyla and the rest of the pride are heading to find the Oracle the bad luck that follows Zam catches up with her and she has no choice but to face the foes who seek to stop her on her journey, some more expected than the others. Along the way we meet new characters, and finally see true colors shine through in others. This book will suck you in and hold you to it like Zam’s flail, but in the case not to harm but to thrill you and that it does, every exciting bit of it.
February 28, 2021
Another Wild Ride
There is so much more Zam gets to learn about herself. I suspect that future books will keep giving more and more as well.
This book left me with quite the emotions.
After the end of the last book, I wasn't sure where the relationships would go. On the romantic side, the main love interest of Zam from the first 3 books seems to be out of the equation. But, I have to admit that I still want that to succeed.
And there's a potential new love interest… Oh, and Steve is still an a$$.
Lila still kicks butt. And the relationship between Zam and Lila is completely cemented. They are sisters.
I'm really looking forward to where this series is going to take me.
In full disclosure, I received a free copy of the audiobook for an honest review.
There is so much more Zam gets to learn about herself. I suspect that future books will keep giving more and more as well.
This book left me with quite the emotions.
After the end of the last book, I wasn't sure where the relationships would go. On the romantic side, the main love interest of Zam from the first 3 books seems to be out of the equation. But, I have to admit that I still want that to succeed.
And there's a potential new love interest… Oh, and Steve is still an a$$.
Lila still kicks butt. And the relationship between Zam and Lila is completely cemented. They are sisters.
I'm really looking forward to where this series is going to take me.
In full disclosure, I received a free copy of the audiobook for an honest review.
June 21, 2020
I’m getting a little bored probably because I feel like I’ve read this story over and over again and I’m losing my patience.
I enjoy Zam and the world building...But the story progression is a little too slow for my liking and I’ve lost interest.
Fuck Steve and Darcy.
In fact I want Steve to die.
I’m undecided on if I want to carry on with this series or not.
I enjoy Zam and the world building...But the story progression is a little too slow for my liking and I’ve lost interest.
Fuck Steve and Darcy.
In fact I want Steve to die.
I’m undecided on if I want to carry on with this series or not.
February 21, 2019
Je croyais avoir compris que c'était le dernier volume de cette série, mais en fait non..
January 7, 2026
Honestly, no notes. Well maybe one note. I want to see Steve destroyed. And Darcy. Both completely annihilated. ASAP, please.
This book picks up right after Jinn's Dominion. Like the last book, most of the book is the Journey to the Oracle's Haunt (about 90%), however, unlike the previous book we get a better mix of danger/action and characters. We've lost Maks (for the moment) but gained a new lion, Ford, who just so happens to be Maks' foster brother. Shem is back with- wait no he's gone again. Flora is - nope she's gone too. Zam still needs to evade Ishtar and Marsum in Maks' body. And the Emperor. And zombie were-hyenas... just assume everyone is out to get them. And we still do not have a clear path forward. On top of all this, now Zam needs to learn to control and use her magic, magic she didn't even know she had until this very moment. And her mixed blood means that none of the magic users she meets up and travels with fully know how to help her.
One complaint I'd have is that we once again met up with the pride and then immediately separated from them, leaving Steve in charge for some reason (yes I know the reason, doesn't mean I like it). And he once again tried to take control. Now that Steve and Darcy have buggered off and the pack has gone off to safety under the leadership of Kiara, I hope we don't see any of them again until it is for good. The whole "meeting up with a group, immediately separating, having to fight our way back together, separating again" is getting a bit old. The story forward clearly revolves around Zam, Lila and Ollianna (Zam's Witch Aunt), with Ford and Trick along for the ride (and Balder and Batman ofc). We might gain another down the line, but for the moment this is our main group and I would like them to focus on the task at hand (saving the world) without having to constantly backtrack to save someone.
I'm still holding out for Maks and Zam to be endgame, and for us to be able to save him somehow, but I do not hate the budding relationship between Zam and Ford. And while she completely dismissed the idea of having a harem, I'm with Lila on this one. Maybe think about it a bit more? I'd be cool with it!
This book picks up right after Jinn's Dominion. Like the last book, most of the book is the Journey to the Oracle's Haunt (about 90%), however, unlike the previous book we get a better mix of danger/action and characters. We've lost Maks (for the moment) but gained a new lion, Ford, who just so happens to be Maks' foster brother. Shem is back with- wait no he's gone again. Flora is - nope she's gone too. Zam still needs to evade Ishtar and Marsum in Maks' body. And the Emperor. And zombie were-hyenas... just assume everyone is out to get them. And we still do not have a clear path forward. On top of all this, now Zam needs to learn to control and use her magic, magic she didn't even know she had until this very moment. And her mixed blood means that none of the magic users she meets up and travels with fully know how to help her.
One complaint I'd have is that we once again met up with the pride and then immediately separated from them, leaving Steve in charge for some reason (yes I know the reason, doesn't mean I like it). And he once again tried to take control. Now that Steve and Darcy have buggered off and the pack has gone off to safety under the leadership of Kiara, I hope we don't see any of them again until it is for good. The whole "meeting up with a group, immediately separating, having to fight our way back together, separating again" is getting a bit old. The story forward clearly revolves around Zam, Lila and Ollianna (Zam's Witch Aunt), with Ford and Trick along for the ride (and Balder and Batman ofc). We might gain another down the line, but for the moment this is our main group and I would like them to focus on the task at hand (saving the world) without having to constantly backtrack to save someone.
I'm still holding out for Maks and Zam to be endgame, and for us to be able to save him somehow, but I do not hate the budding relationship between Zam and Ford. And while she completely dismissed the idea of having a harem, I'm with Lila on this one. Maybe think about it a bit more? I'd be cool with it!
November 15, 2018
Headed further into the fire!
Shannon Mayer has done it again! Now 4 books into the story of Zam and we are on the edge of our seats waiting for the next one. The story develops more as we peice all the clues together. This book is a wild ride and I believe the next will only be better.
Of you have been reading since book 1 (and if you haven't I highly recommend you go back and start from the beginning) Zam and Maks are now separated by forces neither can control and Zam must find the Oracle in order to bring back her brother, the gold lion she needs to bring down the Emperor for good. By a stroke of pure accident she finds herself separated from her new pride and on the edge of the Witches woods once again. This time they, her enforcer and uncle Shem, need to cross it without get noticed. Well in true Zam fashion nothing goes exactly as planned but this time they end up with a few more allies. Running from her once trusted mentor and her now possessed love and running smack into trouble. Zam's heart aches for the loss of Maks and she is fighting her attraction to Ford, her enforcer. As always her faithful horse and tiny dragon at her side. Read to save the world or die trying.
Shannon Mayer has done it again! Now 4 books into the story of Zam and we are on the edge of our seats waiting for the next one. The story develops more as we peice all the clues together. This book is a wild ride and I believe the next will only be better.
Of you have been reading since book 1 (and if you haven't I highly recommend you go back and start from the beginning) Zam and Maks are now separated by forces neither can control and Zam must find the Oracle in order to bring back her brother, the gold lion she needs to bring down the Emperor for good. By a stroke of pure accident she finds herself separated from her new pride and on the edge of the Witches woods once again. This time they, her enforcer and uncle Shem, need to cross it without get noticed. Well in true Zam fashion nothing goes exactly as planned but this time they end up with a few more allies. Running from her once trusted mentor and her now possessed love and running smack into trouble. Zam's heart aches for the loss of Maks and she is fighting her attraction to Ford, her enforcer. As always her faithful horse and tiny dragon at her side. Read to save the world or die trying.
July 18, 2019
Ok I understand that Shannon is a female writer and I also note that many of the reviews here are by females. Point being the romantic struggle of 'shall I let Maks go?; can I let Maks go?; I don't know if I can let Maks go' is getting a little tedious and boring. Get over it already and move on. If I wanted a heavily romantic novel I'd read Mills and Boon.
I love other female authors who write good stories but if this is a female fantasy romance novel then I'll move on.
Apart from that I've found the story line interesting to date but this one dragged on and did not do a lot to progress the story line apart from what I've stated above.
I did enjoy the integration of the witches, I think that is an interesting plot line.
Zam is a really good character with some interesting traits but I do find her mannerisms and demeanor somewhat immature at times. I have nothing against profanity but seriously only teenagers speak likes she does:
"la la la la fingers in my ears and not going there"
I had expected some more character development and story line progression.
I love other female authors who write good stories but if this is a female fantasy romance novel then I'll move on.
Apart from that I've found the story line interesting to date but this one dragged on and did not do a lot to progress the story line apart from what I've stated above.
I did enjoy the integration of the witches, I think that is an interesting plot line.
Zam is a really good character with some interesting traits but I do find her mannerisms and demeanor somewhat immature at times. I have nothing against profanity but seriously only teenagers speak likes she does:
"la la la la fingers in my ears and not going there"
I had expected some more character development and story line progression.
June 14, 2020
An Addictive Page Turner
When magical characters throw out Shakespearean lines as a challenge game, you KNOW it’s going to be one smart, winning story. Nope, I don’t know Shakespearean lines except for the one starting with Romeo, Romeo or Come out, damned spot (I say this a lot when I do laundry). Be that as it may..lol..this is a darn exciting, page turning book with so many plot twists I can not begin to comprehend how this author DOES THAT! She has an imagination on steroids, I could not put this book, I mean iPad, down.
The characters are simply fantastic, the excitement never ending, and I adore the heroine, the fierce little house cat shifter, Zamira, with her awakening sense of self and power plus her bestie Lila, the mini dragon and their ever loyal horse, Balder.
A wonderful book 4 in this amazing series on Kindle Unlimited which is best binge read (imho) in order. It is delightful that the entire series is available and I don’t have to wait a year to read “the next one”.
When magical characters throw out Shakespearean lines as a challenge game, you KNOW it’s going to be one smart, winning story. Nope, I don’t know Shakespearean lines except for the one starting with Romeo, Romeo or Come out, damned spot (I say this a lot when I do laundry). Be that as it may..lol..this is a darn exciting, page turning book with so many plot twists I can not begin to comprehend how this author DOES THAT! She has an imagination on steroids, I could not put this book, I mean iPad, down.
The characters are simply fantastic, the excitement never ending, and I adore the heroine, the fierce little house cat shifter, Zamira, with her awakening sense of self and power plus her bestie Lila, the mini dragon and their ever loyal horse, Balder.
A wonderful book 4 in this amazing series on Kindle Unlimited which is best binge read (imho) in order. It is delightful that the entire series is available and I don’t have to wait a year to read “the next one”.
November 6, 2022
The fourth book in this series is one jam packed action novel. Zamira needs to get to the Oracle to get the answers she needs to save her brother, Maks and end the terror of the Emperor getting free. During this book, she will gain new members to her journey, and lose more too. On top of all that, Zam’s pride breaks apart because of Steve, and Maks goes into deep sleep so that his body that Marsum has taken over will not be able to sway Zam. Zam still holds out the hope that she can find a way to bring Maks back.
This is a wild ride, and you will need to hang on as Zam gets herself into some very dangerous situations and she learns more about the magic within her. This storyline is so intricately woven that it would be easy to miss stuff, but it’s a magical and well written story. I think there are too many “bad guys” in this and too many are after Zam and very little down time for her and her group. So block off some time, because once you start reading this, it’s hard to put it down.
This is a wild ride, and you will need to hang on as Zam gets herself into some very dangerous situations and she learns more about the magic within her. This storyline is so intricately woven that it would be easy to miss stuff, but it’s a magical and well written story. I think there are too many “bad guys” in this and too many are after Zam and very little down time for her and her group. So block off some time, because once you start reading this, it’s hard to put it down.
December 8, 2018
Ok that’s it for me. This main character is suppose to be alpha of a pride and all around strong lead female. She is a childish immature punk. She can’t go 2 pages without saying fu*king, shi**ing, as*hole and others. I see her as 15 years old. Here are some snippets of what she says. Authors words not mine. “You really are a broomstick up a camels a*s, good for nothing but getting sh*t moving.”
Then, “hot silk so fu*king tantalizing that I wanted to roll in it and push my a*s up for a hard slap.
Then “ your as ugly as a giants as*hole”. And many many more. How am I suppose to take her seriously? Oh and let’s not forget that she sticks her tongue out at other characters. No, no more for me. I don’t need to read this fu*king sh*t in a fantasy novel. Sure everyone will appreciate that statement since that is how the character talks. I’ll read the end of this and not get anymore in the series.
Then, “hot silk so fu*king tantalizing that I wanted to roll in it and push my a*s up for a hard slap.
Then “ your as ugly as a giants as*hole”. And many many more. How am I suppose to take her seriously? Oh and let’s not forget that she sticks her tongue out at other characters. No, no more for me. I don’t need to read this fu*king sh*t in a fantasy novel. Sure everyone will appreciate that statement since that is how the character talks. I’ll read the end of this and not get anymore in the series.
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