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Talisman Hunters #1
Elemental Magick
alternate cover edition of ASIN B07J249BJW
For most of Aaron’s life, things have been uninteresting, boring, safe--just the way he likes them. He makes his decisions based on logic and reason and he doesn’t believe in paranormal mumbo jumbo like crystals and tarot cards and witches.
When he sees an ad for an estate sale at the old house on the edge of town, he doesn’t see any harm in going and buying some things like an old book with odd symbols on the front for his antique shop. Who cares if the old woman who owned the house was rumored to be a witch; everyone knows witches aren’t real.
After accidentally raising a demon by goofing around with a spell from the book, Aaron realizes that there are things in this world that logic and reason can’t explain. That witches are indeed real, and that he just might be one too.
Malakai has been searching for the Coughlan Grimoire for years, knowing there are spells in the book that can be dangerous if they fall into the wrong hands. Securing the book so his coven can protect it is of the utmost importance.
He isn’t prepared for the adorable rookie witch with the curly red hair and incredible latent power. But to his surprise, keeping Aaron safe and close by his side quickly becomes more important than the Grimoire. More important than anything.
Before Malakai and Aaron can be together they will have to battle vampires, wolf shifters, and one very powerful warlock. Malakai can’t do it alone; it will take, friends, family, and for Aaron to figure out just how powerful he is if the two of them are going to protect the book and make their new found bond last forever.
For most of Aaron’s life, things have been uninteresting, boring, safe--just the way he likes them. He makes his decisions based on logic and reason and he doesn’t believe in paranormal mumbo jumbo like crystals and tarot cards and witches.
When he sees an ad for an estate sale at the old house on the edge of town, he doesn’t see any harm in going and buying some things like an old book with odd symbols on the front for his antique shop. Who cares if the old woman who owned the house was rumored to be a witch; everyone knows witches aren’t real.
After accidentally raising a demon by goofing around with a spell from the book, Aaron realizes that there are things in this world that logic and reason can’t explain. That witches are indeed real, and that he just might be one too.
Malakai has been searching for the Coughlan Grimoire for years, knowing there are spells in the book that can be dangerous if they fall into the wrong hands. Securing the book so his coven can protect it is of the utmost importance.
He isn’t prepared for the adorable rookie witch with the curly red hair and incredible latent power. But to his surprise, keeping Aaron safe and close by his side quickly becomes more important than the Grimoire. More important than anything.
Before Malakai and Aaron can be together they will have to battle vampires, wolf shifters, and one very powerful warlock. Malakai can’t do it alone; it will take, friends, family, and for Aaron to figure out just how powerful he is if the two of them are going to protect the book and make their new found bond last forever.
153 pages, ebook
First published October 9, 2018
141 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
October 10, 2018
Well, I loved all the magic parts of the book. I'm a huge fan of witches and covens and especially elemental magic and this had all of that.
I'm also a pretty big fan of insta-love, mostly. This was more than just insta-love though, it was just INSTA everything, haha!
I guess I'll just say this was pretty enjoyable. I mean, it was at times over the top cheesy and way more insta than I like but I was interested in where the story is going and what is going to happen next so yeah, it was better than ok.
It's mostly the magic though.
I'm also a pretty big fan of insta-love, mostly. This was more than just insta-love though, it was just INSTA everything, haha!
I guess I'll just say this was pretty enjoyable. I mean, it was at times over the top cheesy and way more insta than I like but I was interested in where the story is going and what is going to happen next so yeah, it was better than ok.
It's mostly the magic though.
October 7, 2018
This is my first time reading a work by this author, and I really liked her writing style. It's light and refreshing. This book was filled with humor, two likeable MCs and a bunch of friends who may be more than what they seem in the beginning.
Aaron is a regular guy. He does not do complicated, he likes simple and steady, wants his Mr. Right and to run his antique shop. So he thinks nothing about going to an estate sale where it was rumored an old witch lived. What can possibly happen? He stumbles upon a book that will change the course of his life and bring a man into his orbit that might be the one he has been looking for.
Malakai is a powerful witch. He is confident, loyal and happy. But he, like many other witches out there, is still waiting for his soul mate and, when he feels power surge from far away, the last thing he expects is to meet his soul mate and his familiar, get mobbed by every paranormal possible thinking they are entitled to what does not belong to them and a new parcel of friends!
I liked how author presented magic - the elements and how they manifested in every witch, how all other paranormal creatures were described - it was refreshing. Aaron's friends provided comic relief with their acceptance of Aaron's magical abilities and their loyalty to him in times of danger. The Donovan coven was fascinating feature, their traditions and witch practices, how close they were to each other made for a fresh and satisfying read. I would have liked less insta-love between Aaron and Kai, there should have been more getting to know each other moments, but their chemistry was undeniable and they were very hot together. And also a bit more general world background would have made this book stand out more.
All in all, I liked this book. It had a lot going for it, and I am curious what will happen in the next. Some characters were begging to get a story! I recommend it!
** ARC kindly provided by Leslie Copeland for my honest review **
Aaron is a regular guy. He does not do complicated, he likes simple and steady, wants his Mr. Right and to run his antique shop. So he thinks nothing about going to an estate sale where it was rumored an old witch lived. What can possibly happen? He stumbles upon a book that will change the course of his life and bring a man into his orbit that might be the one he has been looking for.
Malakai is a powerful witch. He is confident, loyal and happy. But he, like many other witches out there, is still waiting for his soul mate and, when he feels power surge from far away, the last thing he expects is to meet his soul mate and his familiar, get mobbed by every paranormal possible thinking they are entitled to what does not belong to them and a new parcel of friends!
I liked how author presented magic - the elements and how they manifested in every witch, how all other paranormal creatures were described - it was refreshing. Aaron's friends provided comic relief with their acceptance of Aaron's magical abilities and their loyalty to him in times of danger. The Donovan coven was fascinating feature, their traditions and witch practices, how close they were to each other made for a fresh and satisfying read. I would have liked less insta-love between Aaron and Kai, there should have been more getting to know each other moments, but their chemistry was undeniable and they were very hot together. And also a bit more general world background would have made this book stand out more.
All in all, I liked this book. It had a lot going for it, and I am curious what will happen in the next. Some characters were begging to get a story! I recommend it!
** ARC kindly provided by Leslie Copeland for my honest review **
October 10, 2018
2.5
Started quite enjoyable with a lot of adorkable cuteness and a promise about a magical adventure, soul mates and real friendship. I couldn't help but smile big time when Aaron and Kai first met. There was this light, easy fluff, perfect for a late summer read in October but then the cuteness took a turn into sweetness when ista-love and 'baby'ing took the forefront and never really made place for something else again.
Started quite enjoyable with a lot of adorkable cuteness and a promise about a magical adventure, soul mates and real friendship. I couldn't help but smile big time when Aaron and Kai first met. There was this light, easy fluff, perfect for a late summer read in October but then the cuteness took a turn into sweetness when ista-love and 'baby'ing took the forefront and never really made place for something else again.
abandoned
April 26, 2019DNF. for starters, the characters have little to no physical description & that bothers me & were indistinguishable while I was reading. I didn’t come across a description for the main character until I was almost on pg. 40. Also, this book is v insta love. The main characters meet & literally that night are calling each other baby & saying things like “you’re mine”. Umm excuse me? What’s the number for 91 Fucking 1. Insta love freaks me out so I’m gonna go
November 6, 2018
This is a light, uncomplicated sweet story. There is very little descriptive phrasing so the reader only knows Aaron has bright red curly hair, his friend Russ is 6’4” and Kia’s parents live in a house that looks like old folklore.
The story needs LOTS of editing and serious proofreading but if you can get past that there is sort of fairytale story here.
It’s a little to ‘everyone is perfect’ for my taste but it was a nice, light and uncomplicated read which some of us need from time to time.
2.5 Stars rounded up.
The story needs LOTS of editing and serious proofreading but if you can get past that there is sort of fairytale story here.
It’s a little to ‘everyone is perfect’ for my taste but it was a nice, light and uncomplicated read which some of us need from time to time.
2.5 Stars rounded up.
October 24, 2018
2.75 stars
This book is waaaaay too short for the amount of stuff in it. Character and plot development fall to the wayside in the author's rush to get to the insta-lu-er-love interest with over the top romantic nonsense for two people who've only known each other for a few days, but who are confessing life long devotion within the space of two weeks (I think this can happen in reality, but for the purposes of this review, it undermined the characters and the plot development).
Also, it turns out Aaron, the MC, is a magical prodigy, learning magic spells in the space of a few days after discovering his abilities (and his supposed skepticism about magic and the supernatural get crumpled and tossed into the dust without a whimper from him or his friends). I had a hard time finishing reading this thing without rolling my eyes.
I would love to read a new version of this story, which is so full of potential. With more time to develop the plot and characters and do some real world building this story could be truly spectacular. As it is, it's just a really fast, ridiculous, read.
This book is waaaaay too short for the amount of stuff in it. Character and plot development fall to the wayside in the author's rush to get to the insta-lu-er-love interest with over the top romantic nonsense for two people who've only known each other for a few days, but who are confessing life long devotion within the space of two weeks (I think this can happen in reality, but for the purposes of this review, it undermined the characters and the plot development).
Also, it turns out Aaron, the MC, is a magical prodigy, learning magic spells in the space of a few days after discovering his abilities (and his supposed skepticism about magic and the supernatural get crumpled and tossed into the dust without a whimper from him or his friends). I had a hard time finishing reading this thing without rolling my eyes.
I would love to read a new version of this story, which is so full of potential. With more time to develop the plot and characters and do some real world building this story could be truly spectacular. As it is, it's just a really fast, ridiculous, read.
November 30, 2018
Aaron and Malakai are a great team and funny characters. Although it was more or less love at first sight, I liked the relationship
there were some things which could have been better:
I would have liked to have a bit more depth to Aarons magickal skills and how he took it in stride. that was a bit easy.
the same goes for the final battle ...
but I really hope for the next book to be another one about these two because there are a lot of open questions.
all in all a good first book in a series
there were some things which could have been better:
I would have liked to have a bit more depth to Aarons magickal skills and how he took it in stride. that was a bit easy.
the same goes for the final battle ...
but I really hope for the next book to be another one about these two because there are a lot of open questions.
all in all a good first book in a series
September 11, 2023
Elemental Magick is the first book in The Donovan Coven series. We start off with the Grimoire itself as it tries to ensure it becomes Aaron's. There is an instant attraction between Malakai and Aaron, quickly followed by proclamations of love and being soul mates. If you don't like insta-love, trust me, you probably won't like this book.
The story itself is fast-paced, quickly moving from one scene to another without a real chance to get to know each character. It flows nicely though, so as long as you're prepared to go with the flow and not dive too deep, you'll be fine. As you might expect, Aaron is a whiz at magic, even though he's a newbie. And at least one of his friends is a latent witch too.
This was a brilliant book, full of action both in and out of the sheets. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Nov 27, 2019
The story itself is fast-paced, quickly moving from one scene to another without a real chance to get to know each character. It flows nicely though, so as long as you're prepared to go with the flow and not dive too deep, you'll be fine. As you might expect, Aaron is a whiz at magic, even though he's a newbie. And at least one of his friends is a latent witch too.
This was a brilliant book, full of action both in and out of the sheets. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Nov 27, 2019
October 14, 2018
A new witch that doesn't know he's a witch, an ancient book, a canny owl, and a seriously hot stranger; combined with beautifully described romantic connections, stunning visuals of magical abilities and battles, and an engaging cast? I'm a seriously happy reader.
Aaron's mind and existence are firmly planted on the normal, non-magical ground. His extreme insistence on the ridiculousness of the supernatural becomes quite comical when the results of his little foray into reading the grimoire prove him completely wrong. While it wasn't really realistic for him to not freak out ever and to be so accepting of all the changes, people, and perceptions he grew up with, I pretty much didn't care. He was adorable and took to magic like a duck to water. With his cuteness and comfort in the trust he has for Malakai I was happy to read a story that suspended reality (beyond the whole magic and magical creatures thing...) and granted the MC's the ability to find their perfect person and move right into the happily part of the Happily Ever After.
Malakai was great with the honesty, the insistence that Aaron was the one for him. His admiration of the witchling and his considerable power never crept into suspicion, fear, or jealousy. Instead, he enfolded Aaron into his heart and his family right from the start. I loved his honesty the most. There were no secrets kept back as a source of relationship conflict to be addressed later, the focus of the conflict was kept firmly in the realm of the outside forces wanting the grimoire and the lengths they'd go to get it.
Because the focus was kept simple it allowed the characters, both good and not-so-good, to be introduced in a way that enhanced the story and gave it a few someones to build on as well as capturing our interest to continue the series. Light, sweet, and definitely magical, this story was a fantastic start for a series and I loved the complete lack of angst, the idea of soul twins, and I'm absolutely invested in the Donovan coven and can't wait for early next year when book 2 comes out!
Aaron's mind and existence are firmly planted on the normal, non-magical ground. His extreme insistence on the ridiculousness of the supernatural becomes quite comical when the results of his little foray into reading the grimoire prove him completely wrong. While it wasn't really realistic for him to not freak out ever and to be so accepting of all the changes, people, and perceptions he grew up with, I pretty much didn't care. He was adorable and took to magic like a duck to water. With his cuteness and comfort in the trust he has for Malakai I was happy to read a story that suspended reality (beyond the whole magic and magical creatures thing...) and granted the MC's the ability to find their perfect person and move right into the happily part of the Happily Ever After.
Malakai was great with the honesty, the insistence that Aaron was the one for him. His admiration of the witchling and his considerable power never crept into suspicion, fear, or jealousy. Instead, he enfolded Aaron into his heart and his family right from the start. I loved his honesty the most. There were no secrets kept back as a source of relationship conflict to be addressed later, the focus of the conflict was kept firmly in the realm of the outside forces wanting the grimoire and the lengths they'd go to get it.
Because the focus was kept simple it allowed the characters, both good and not-so-good, to be introduced in a way that enhanced the story and gave it a few someones to build on as well as capturing our interest to continue the series. Light, sweet, and definitely magical, this story was a fantastic start for a series and I loved the complete lack of angst, the idea of soul twins, and I'm absolutely invested in the Donovan coven and can't wait for early next year when book 2 comes out!
November 2, 2018
This was a really good book. I liked it. But. There were a few things off for me. And it's probably more of a personal thing. Maybe.
Sometimes it just didn't seem to flow. One minute they are here and the next off on a completely different tangent. I had a problem with the magic as well. No matter how easy it comes, it still takes practice to learn. And for 2 individuals not knowing about it at all….yeah. off.
So Aaron goes to this estate sale. Where a supposed witch lived and buys some stuff. Including a book that turns out to be a grimoire. The grimoire is bonded to Aaron, thanks to a previous witch. As a joke, he tries a spell and summons a demon. Next thing he knows, there are 'people’ everywhere that he's never seen. Including Kai. Kai is a strong witch. He knows something is up with the amateur look of things and he finds out more than he thought. Now to get Aaron home to train him and away from all the creatures who want what's in that book.
Aaron is strong as far as a witch. He just didn't know he was one. Then all of a sudden, he's super powerful. There's another it happens to later. So that was one and the other was the fighting. Everyone under the sun is after this grimoire, yet none of the enemies have any strength it seems. And for them to be powerful as well. I expected more of a fight. Even to the point of the good guys getting hurt. Yes, no one wants the good guys to hurt, but battles are not perfect. I just needed more of a battle. A real struggle.
Even the fated mates thing. Yes it's usually instantaneous, but I don't know. There was no fighting it or about it. It's like everything was perfect and that was a bit too much for me.
I'm hoping you guys really do read this. Form your own opinion. I hope you find you love the book so much and it's just the best ever.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
Sometimes it just didn't seem to flow. One minute they are here and the next off on a completely different tangent. I had a problem with the magic as well. No matter how easy it comes, it still takes practice to learn. And for 2 individuals not knowing about it at all….yeah. off.
So Aaron goes to this estate sale. Where a supposed witch lived and buys some stuff. Including a book that turns out to be a grimoire. The grimoire is bonded to Aaron, thanks to a previous witch. As a joke, he tries a spell and summons a demon. Next thing he knows, there are 'people’ everywhere that he's never seen. Including Kai. Kai is a strong witch. He knows something is up with the amateur look of things and he finds out more than he thought. Now to get Aaron home to train him and away from all the creatures who want what's in that book.
Aaron is strong as far as a witch. He just didn't know he was one. Then all of a sudden, he's super powerful. There's another it happens to later. So that was one and the other was the fighting. Everyone under the sun is after this grimoire, yet none of the enemies have any strength it seems. And for them to be powerful as well. I expected more of a fight. Even to the point of the good guys getting hurt. Yes, no one wants the good guys to hurt, but battles are not perfect. I just needed more of a battle. A real struggle.
Even the fated mates thing. Yes it's usually instantaneous, but I don't know. There was no fighting it or about it. It's like everything was perfect and that was a bit too much for me.
I'm hoping you guys really do read this. Form your own opinion. I hope you find you love the book so much and it's just the best ever.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
October 16, 2018
A bit formulaic
This book fell into the same trap that happens so often in fantasy books, and then it did the same for romance. Aaron had no clue that magic existed, but when his own powers manifested, he was suddenly able to master things that Kai took years to get down. It made for an exciting final fight scene, but it just wasn't believable. Then, on the romance side, Aaron didn't ever seem to question the feelings that being Kai's amran cupla incited beyond that initial suspicion that he was being magically manipulated - and insta-love was the result.
I also thought that the grimoire's sentience in the prologue and epilogue felt a bit heavy handed and while clearly foreshadowing things, it was an awkward method of doing so.
Having said that, I'm interested enough in the characters that I'm willing to read the next book when it comes out.
This book fell into the same trap that happens so often in fantasy books, and then it did the same for romance. Aaron had no clue that magic existed, but when his own powers manifested, he was suddenly able to master things that Kai took years to get down. It made for an exciting final fight scene, but it just wasn't believable. Then, on the romance side, Aaron didn't ever seem to question the feelings that being Kai's amran cupla incited beyond that initial suspicion that he was being magically manipulated - and insta-love was the result.
I also thought that the grimoire's sentience in the prologue and epilogue felt a bit heavy handed and while clearly foreshadowing things, it was an awkward method of doing so.
Having said that, I'm interested enough in the characters that I'm willing to read the next book when it comes out.
November 3, 2021
fast paced insta love story. Very little description of the characters, like one has red hair and another is tall and that's pretty much it. It started out on a good note, guy finds out he's got magick etc but then it didn't really progress much on that front. He just sort of went "whoa dude" and then accepted it. The plot pretty much fell to the wayside so the characters could get together and "Baby" each other to death. I don't mind a sweet little love story but i like a plot in there as well.
October 9, 2018
good story. i enjoyed the mystery and magick.. i enjoyed the paranormal aspect as well it was just so interesting. this was well written and fast paced. kept you on the edge of your seat to see what was next. very good
October 12, 2018
I really liked this paranormal story. I was interested and intrigued right away. It was a great beginning that kept me invested the whole way through.
A story of love, friends, family and protecting what's yours.
I really look forward to the next one!!
4.5 stars
A story of love, friends, family and protecting what's yours.
I really look forward to the next one!!
4.5 stars
May 7, 2019
1.5 rounded up
Reading this book after Thrown to the Wolves was painful, because for me it lacked depth, it lacked plotting, it lacked development and it was too much insta-everything for me: insta-love; insta-magic-perfection; etc. Just, nope.
Reading this book after Thrown to the Wolves was painful, because for me it lacked depth, it lacked plotting, it lacked development and it was too much insta-everything for me: insta-love; insta-magic-perfection; etc. Just, nope.
February 13, 2020
Awesome blurb, but the execution was not as good. I was bored, never a good thing when reading about magic and sentient grimoires.
February 4, 2021
Magic!
Interesting world, vibrant characters, action, fated pairings and a familiar make for an engaging story. I look forward to the next book.
Interesting world, vibrant characters, action, fated pairings and a familiar make for an engaging story. I look forward to the next book.
December 6, 2018
Good idea but no development.
This story just reads like fan fiction. There is no depth to the characters and the plot moves too fast without establishing reasonable process.
This story just reads like fan fiction. There is no depth to the characters and the plot moves too fast without establishing reasonable process.
December 5, 2020
Rating =
Solid 3.5 enjoyable easy read. Really good brain candy.
Blurb = (Scale 1-5)
4
My Genre Scale = (Scale 1-5)
4
Odds if not your genre = (Scale 1-5)
2
Development of: = (Scale 1-5)
*World = 4 especially considering length
*Plot = 3 solid but predictable
*Characters (scratch below the surface?) =
3
What stood out =
Nothing really but I found the books antics in the beginning intriguing.
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for =
Entertaining, smooth, easy reading for passing time.
Warnings =
None except those opposed to Insta-love for even fated mates.
Series Notes = 1st but after 2 years still no follow up for Ian & Russ
*Reading on? N/A
*Reading back to back? N/A
*Can be easily read without the previous?
N/A
Rating Notes =
Definitely ends with a HEA/HFN. No surprises, not a lot of depth, but I enjoyed it; and I stayed engaged. Thus, it did its job.
**************
Below are my explanations or thoughts on reviewing!
***************
1.Obviously no review can take into account all the various personal pet peeves of readers. But, I do try to take into account the common ones often bemoaned by other reviewers
2. If used in this review, the term Brain candy is not necessarily negative. It has its uses and at times it is my preference when I just want to pass some time; so it does not carry a negative connotation for me - unless I'm expecting the next great novel. (What falls under brain candy? The book is meant for pure entertainment to pass time. It may be formulaic, from an author published quickly like monthly, things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc.. Publishing industries version of pop music. Beach type reads etc... ).
3. Blurb rating purpose:
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another type. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read one. I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2020) was a 3.72 average for 1390 books. Which considering, you should be better at picking out books the more you read, I feel is a accurate average. I have over 700 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
Solid 3.5 enjoyable easy read. Really good brain candy.
Blurb = (Scale 1-5)
4
My Genre Scale = (Scale 1-5)
4
Odds if not your genre = (Scale 1-5)
2
Development of: = (Scale 1-5)
*World = 4 especially considering length
*Plot = 3 solid but predictable
*Characters (scratch below the surface?) =
3
What stood out =
Nothing really but I found the books antics in the beginning intriguing.
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for =
Entertaining, smooth, easy reading for passing time.
Warnings =
None except those opposed to Insta-love for even fated mates.
Series Notes = 1st but after 2 years still no follow up for Ian & Russ
*Reading on? N/A
*Reading back to back? N/A
*Can be easily read without the previous?
N/A
Rating Notes =
Definitely ends with a HEA/HFN. No surprises, not a lot of depth, but I enjoyed it; and I stayed engaged. Thus, it did its job.
**************
Below are my explanations or thoughts on reviewing!
***************
1.Obviously no review can take into account all the various personal pet peeves of readers. But, I do try to take into account the common ones often bemoaned by other reviewers
2. If used in this review, the term Brain candy is not necessarily negative. It has its uses and at times it is my preference when I just want to pass some time; so it does not carry a negative connotation for me - unless I'm expecting the next great novel. (What falls under brain candy? The book is meant for pure entertainment to pass time. It may be formulaic, from an author published quickly like monthly, things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc.. Publishing industries version of pop music. Beach type reads etc... ).
3. Blurb rating purpose:
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another type. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read one. I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2020) was a 3.72 average for 1390 books. Which considering, you should be better at picking out books the more you read, I feel is a accurate average. I have over 700 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
October 9, 2018
This is my first time reading this author and this book is an interesting start to a new paranormal m/m series. I would actually give this 3.5 stars if I could, but Goodreads doesn't let you do half stars.
The main character, Aaron, loves his nice staid, _safe_ life as the owner of an Antique (slash used stuff) Store in small town America, a store he inherited from his grandmother along with his house. Aaron's greatest ambition as a child was to be a cashier at Walmart, that's the kind of safe and secure he wants. He haunts Estate sales to find things to sell in his store and an estate sale of the belongings of a local 'witch' is too good an opportunity to pass up so Aaron drags his friend Russ to the sale and comes away with a weird book, among other things, a book he didn't even want but one that Russ insisted he buy. Well it was interesting, at least, not that he believed in witches or the occult. Wicca, sure, it was a religion, but real spells and stuff? Hah!
And then the book does weird things like open only for him, manifest energy, and make things shake but... witchcraft was NOT real, and Aaron would prove it by doing one of the spells in the book... and almost summoned forth a demon. Well crap!
Enter Malakai Donovan, of the Donovan Clan of Kilkenny Ireland, witch and super hottie. He's been looking for the fabled Coughlin Grimoire for years, this particular Book of Shadows the most powerful of it's kind. And someone - Aaron - not only found it, but opened it _and_ cast a spell from it. And now all sorts of magick users are crawling out of the woodwork to get their hands on it - from bad witches to warlocks to vamps and shifters. Kai has his work cut out for him, protecting both the book and the gorgeous little witchling the book has bonded too. Piece of cake, right? Oh and then there's the little matter of them being soul twins and Aaron being freaking adorable and firing _all_ of Kai's protective instincts.
The book was a nice, light read. Some of the plot points were a little rushed, speeding the story along a little faster than believable. There were a few places where the reader had to really suspend disbelief and just go with the flow but on the whole it was an enjoyable little book and the series shows promise.
The main character, Aaron, loves his nice staid, _safe_ life as the owner of an Antique (slash used stuff) Store in small town America, a store he inherited from his grandmother along with his house. Aaron's greatest ambition as a child was to be a cashier at Walmart, that's the kind of safe and secure he wants. He haunts Estate sales to find things to sell in his store and an estate sale of the belongings of a local 'witch' is too good an opportunity to pass up so Aaron drags his friend Russ to the sale and comes away with a weird book, among other things, a book he didn't even want but one that Russ insisted he buy. Well it was interesting, at least, not that he believed in witches or the occult. Wicca, sure, it was a religion, but real spells and stuff? Hah!
And then the book does weird things like open only for him, manifest energy, and make things shake but... witchcraft was NOT real, and Aaron would prove it by doing one of the spells in the book... and almost summoned forth a demon. Well crap!
Enter Malakai Donovan, of the Donovan Clan of Kilkenny Ireland, witch and super hottie. He's been looking for the fabled Coughlin Grimoire for years, this particular Book of Shadows the most powerful of it's kind. And someone - Aaron - not only found it, but opened it _and_ cast a spell from it. And now all sorts of magick users are crawling out of the woodwork to get their hands on it - from bad witches to warlocks to vamps and shifters. Kai has his work cut out for him, protecting both the book and the gorgeous little witchling the book has bonded too. Piece of cake, right? Oh and then there's the little matter of them being soul twins and Aaron being freaking adorable and firing _all_ of Kai's protective instincts.
The book was a nice, light read. Some of the plot points were a little rushed, speeding the story along a little faster than believable. There were a few places where the reader had to really suspend disbelief and just go with the flow but on the whole it was an enjoyable little book and the series shows promise.
October 23, 2018
Families and covens
This was a great start to a series with some room to grow and improve as the series continues on.
I enjoyed the plot and the core romance. The story had just the right mix of action and calm times of exploration to keep interest. But there was room for improvement. There was a good section of the middle where the time is spent learning about training and building the relationship between the two main characters. It would have also been a great time to learn more about the world and about the other characters in the book. This is an urban fantasy that takes place in our world, so an entire setup isn't rrequired. However, as with any paranormal series the rules of the world do need to be explained a bit. For example, a vampire gets killed in the middle of the day in the middle of the street- does no one else see it? Because all of Aaron's (apparently) non-magical friends saw it. And what happens to the body? The rules of the world need to be laid out a bit better. Also with that time it would have been awesome to get proper introductions to the other characters. There is an entire family of Donovans in the Donovan coven, plenty of siblings and aunts and uncles. They get mentioned by name but we never get to meet any of them, which is a shame because this coven seems to be the core of the series. Learning more about all the characters rather than just the couple the book is about always really rounds off the whole story.
The storyline that happened for the core characters, Aaron and Malakai, was very satisfying. The two have just the right amount of passion and heat along with the ability to happily be together for the normal and mundane aspects of life. Whether learning each others bodies or quietly working side by side, they matched well and made for a good pair to follow. The connection to the grimoire is fascinating and I hope we get to see more of what makes it so special in the future books.
An interesting start with plenty of room to grow but lots of good story to still be told, I look forward to seeing where this series will lead!
This was a great start to a series with some room to grow and improve as the series continues on.
I enjoyed the plot and the core romance. The story had just the right mix of action and calm times of exploration to keep interest. But there was room for improvement. There was a good section of the middle where the time is spent learning about training and building the relationship between the two main characters. It would have also been a great time to learn more about the world and about the other characters in the book. This is an urban fantasy that takes place in our world, so an entire setup isn't rrequired. However, as with any paranormal series the rules of the world do need to be explained a bit. For example, a vampire gets killed in the middle of the day in the middle of the street- does no one else see it? Because all of Aaron's (apparently) non-magical friends saw it. And what happens to the body? The rules of the world need to be laid out a bit better. Also with that time it would have been awesome to get proper introductions to the other characters. There is an entire family of Donovans in the Donovan coven, plenty of siblings and aunts and uncles. They get mentioned by name but we never get to meet any of them, which is a shame because this coven seems to be the core of the series. Learning more about all the characters rather than just the couple the book is about always really rounds off the whole story.
The storyline that happened for the core characters, Aaron and Malakai, was very satisfying. The two have just the right amount of passion and heat along with the ability to happily be together for the normal and mundane aspects of life. Whether learning each others bodies or quietly working side by side, they matched well and made for a good pair to follow. The connection to the grimoire is fascinating and I hope we get to see more of what makes it so special in the future books.
An interesting start with plenty of room to grow but lots of good story to still be told, I look forward to seeing where this series will lead!
December 11, 2019
What I Think: I loved the intro to this so much that it made it worth it (you’ll just have to read it to find out). Aaron’s life is laid-back and normal which is just the way he likes. Unknown to him, he is the inheritor of a magical force unlike any other. A naturally gifted witch, Aaron still doesn’t believe it when the grimoire chooses him and him alone. Not even when he conjures a demon while fumbling around or when he gets an owl that seems to understand him when he speaks. Kai has heard about the grimoire his whole life, always on the lookout for it but even he doesn’t expect what he’ll meet as he follows the magic signature of the grimoire’s current holder. When Kai comes into Aaron’s life, he can no longer run. I love how fast he adjusts to his new life as I’ve never been one for wasting time when there are things that need doing. Kai is nervous and thinks he needs to protect Aaron, especially from what they might be to each other but Aaron just rolls with it. Forced to use his powers before he even knows what he is doing, he knows he must take his place by the side of his mate to protect himself from all the other supernatural beings that want the book that wants only him. Aaron is a natural as his mind and blood sing with magic, helping him learn things faster than usual and helping him find his feet. I had a joyous feeling throughout as this tale isn’t filled with any angst and is pretty straight-forward, a feeling further enhanced by the others in the tale for whom magic is as natural as breathing. The Donovan Family also adds to this feeling, mixing natural magic with the warmth and life they exude as they wholeheartedly enfold Aaron even as certain characters seem to have a bond of their own too and I would read the sequels to this just to find out where it all leads. As Aaron and Kai bond ever stronger and their magic melds, that feeling of joy is intensified to a thick fizz and they come together to eliminate their enemies so they can move on to planning a life together.
Verdict? A summery, feel-good romp filled with magic, love, and a very opinionated grimoire!
https://thequilleandlampe.wordpress.c...
Verdict? A summery, feel-good romp filled with magic, love, and a very opinionated grimoire!
https://thequilleandlampe.wordpress.c...
November 11, 2018
Good story
A new author to me and I liked most of it.
There are some excellent positives: Interesting world building; a magical take on the paranormal shifter 'fated mates' trope; a powerful female in the head of the coven role (how awesome); even a first person foreword and afterword from a magical spirit item.
Nothing was earthshatteringly new but many of my favourites concepts/Tropes put together in a fresh and pleasing way with enough difference to make it interesting. If you are new to this genre, you will absolutely love it
However, some places were a bit unpolished.
"THE" dialogue between the two MCs was just dialogue, no descriptions of facial reactions, tone of speech or other emotional cues, no inner thoughts or reactions, just a couple of pages of one speech bracket after the other. It jarred me out of the fantasy and also left the best romantic scene two dimensional and flat. Which is a shame because I was invested in the characters by that point.
Secondly, the baddies, again, characters not fleshed out, not enough backstory, they turn up, they threaten, they go down. I wanted to know what the vampires are like in this world, who were the warlocks, what turned them bad, what covens these witches were from and what characteristics the different covens had that made them different.
It does feel that the author is trying to leave us little breadcrumbs for bigger backstories in the next book and whilst this first in a series book is a HFN (happy for now ending) it has definitely opened a can of worms rather than tied book one up with a HEA bow.
I can't wait to read the next book and see what happens.
A new author to me and I liked most of it.
There are some excellent positives: Interesting world building; a magical take on the paranormal shifter 'fated mates' trope; a powerful female in the head of the coven role (how awesome); even a first person foreword and afterword from a magical spirit item.
Nothing was earthshatteringly new but many of my favourites concepts/Tropes put together in a fresh and pleasing way with enough difference to make it interesting. If you are new to this genre, you will absolutely love it
However, some places were a bit unpolished.
"THE" dialogue between the two MCs was just dialogue, no descriptions of facial reactions, tone of speech or other emotional cues, no inner thoughts or reactions, just a couple of pages of one speech bracket after the other. It jarred me out of the fantasy and also left the best romantic scene two dimensional and flat. Which is a shame because I was invested in the characters by that point.
Secondly, the baddies, again, characters not fleshed out, not enough backstory, they turn up, they threaten, they go down. I wanted to know what the vampires are like in this world, who were the warlocks, what turned them bad, what covens these witches were from and what characteristics the different covens had that made them different.
It does feel that the author is trying to leave us little breadcrumbs for bigger backstories in the next book and whilst this first in a series book is a HFN (happy for now ending) it has definitely opened a can of worms rather than tied book one up with a HEA bow.
I can't wait to read the next book and see what happens.
December 19, 2018
Aaron has always wanted a safe life... living his life by logic and reason. The paranormal doesn't have any space in his world. Then he finds the book that changes everything for him.
Soon, he find himself in a whole new world where the things that go bump in the night are very real and very dangerous... and some are after his book. Luckily Malakai comes to make sure the book is in safe hands and stays to help Aaron maneuver his new powers and keep the book, the Coughlan Grimoire in the right hands. And if their attraction sets them on a sexy course of romance, even better, right? But first, battle the forces of evil... Then work on the happily ever after.
Adorable and sexy guys are always great to read about... but when you throw in a truly entertaining storyline, you get a winner. And that is what Elemental Magick by Jackie James is. Kai and Aaron are sweet together, finding together something they didn't know they were ready for. The physical attraction is as combustible as some of the spells that can be found in that Grimoire. And the supporting cast of characters just add more magic to the storyline.
I received this book as an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily am leaving my honest review and recommendation.
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Soon, he find himself in a whole new world where the things that go bump in the night are very real and very dangerous... and some are after his book. Luckily Malakai comes to make sure the book is in safe hands and stays to help Aaron maneuver his new powers and keep the book, the Coughlan Grimoire in the right hands. And if their attraction sets them on a sexy course of romance, even better, right? But first, battle the forces of evil... Then work on the happily ever after.
Adorable and sexy guys are always great to read about... but when you throw in a truly entertaining storyline, you get a winner. And that is what Elemental Magick by Jackie James is. Kai and Aaron are sweet together, finding together something they didn't know they were ready for. The physical attraction is as combustible as some of the spells that can be found in that Grimoire. And the supporting cast of characters just add more magic to the storyline.
I received this book as an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily am leaving my honest review and recommendation.
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October 7, 2018
I loved how Aaron just was going through life thinking that the things that go bump in the night were not real. Boy was his world turned upside down when he goes to an estate sale with his best friend and they find this old book that can’t be opened. Well it turns out that Aaron can open it and when he summons a demon everything changes . All of a sudden, the town is being overrun with witches, shape shifters, werewolves and warlocks, unbeknownst to Aaron. Once Malakai shows up for the book, not only does he want to keep the book safe but also Aaron as he has found the other half of his soul. I liked how accepting Malakai’s family was when he takes Aaron back to Ireland to his family home. Malakai’s mother is the high priestess and there is no safer place. We then have Aaron learning to use his gifts, a holiday to prepare for, a bonding ceremony and a big battle. A lot was packed in this book and I enjoyed every minuet. I loved Russ and Ian and hope they get their stories. This was a new to me author and I can’t wait to read more by her.
ARC was provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
ARC was provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
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November 11, 2020DNF 65% ugh... I really wanted to like this. For starters it's a fantasy, there's magic, witches, vampires and others creatures.
But... It was boring and there were a few things that bothered me.
First, the insta-love-fated-mates. It's not my thing actually i prefer slow-burning romance even if it is included the fated mates theme. I don't have anything against all of that...if it's written amazingly.
In this book the main characters jumped on each other so easily, too soon. Okay the insta-love- fated-mates thing but they only knew each other for a day? Maybe two? I'm not talking about the sex. I don't care about that. I'm talking about the Ireland thing in the first half of ghe book, if you read it you know maybe what I'm talking about, and the "baby"... after what? Few hours? Yeah.. Not for me.
I would've prefer a little bit of building relationships, knowing each other step by step even if it was clear from the beginning that they were supposed to be fated mates.
And to conclude, there wasn't a sort of presentation for the characters. Some physical descriptions that helped to imagine them. M
But... It was boring and there were a few things that bothered me.
First, the insta-love-fated-mates. It's not my thing actually i prefer slow-burning romance even if it is included the fated mates theme. I don't have anything against all of that...if it's written amazingly.
In this book the main characters jumped on each other so easily, too soon. Okay the insta-love- fated-mates thing but they only knew each other for a day? Maybe two? I'm not talking about the sex. I don't care about that. I'm talking about the Ireland thing in the first half of ghe book, if you read it you know maybe what I'm talking about, and the "baby"... after what? Few hours? Yeah.. Not for me.
I would've prefer a little bit of building relationships, knowing each other step by step even if it was clear from the beginning that they were supposed to be fated mates.
And to conclude, there wasn't a sort of presentation for the characters. Some physical descriptions that helped to imagine them. M
October 17, 2018
3.75* Elemental Magick is the first in a new series by Jacki James called the Donovan Coven. This story follows Aaron and Malakai as they find each other and the Coughlin Grimoire. Aaron doesn’t realize a witch or what he has found in the Grimoire. Malakai wants the Grimoire but soon realizes that he wants Aaron safe more than he wants the spell book but by keeping Aaron safe and teaching him about magick, they will both be able to keep the Grimoire safe.
Such a cute book and a fun start to this series. It is a quick read and low angst, even when the main characters are going up against the bad guys. I liked the author’s take on “instalove” in this story by using the “anam ceangal” (meaning married) and “anam cupla” (meaning soul mates). I’m really excited to see where the author takes this story – will it be a continuation of the first book following mainly Aaron and Malakai or will some of the other characters take a more leading role?
Such a cute book and a fun start to this series. It is a quick read and low angst, even when the main characters are going up against the bad guys. I liked the author’s take on “instalove” in this story by using the “anam ceangal” (meaning married) and “anam cupla” (meaning soul mates). I’m really excited to see where the author takes this story – will it be a continuation of the first book following mainly Aaron and Malakai or will some of the other characters take a more leading role?
October 14, 2018
This is the first book in The Donovan Coven Series. An interesting book the writing was okay. The plot was entertaining and it was steady throughout the book. Although the plot was a bit hard to find, it could have been a couple of different things. I found the story and characters likeable. This book felt unfinished and it needed more detail and information. I think that with it the book would’ve been for enjoyable. I did like the idea of the story it just needed more help to fulfill it. Aaron and Malakai are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, werewolves, vampires, witches, a book, an owl, Ireland, bonding, friends and family, travel and more in this book. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
October 8, 2018
Aaron buys a book at an estate sale. Setting his life on a totally new track. The Grimoire is a book of magic that only Aaron can open. Trying a spell in the book alerts the magic world that it has been found.
Malakai arrives to help him protect the book. The connection Aaron feels to him is special. As they navigate the magic of the book and their feelings for each other, Aaron’s magic begins to grow. Showing him to be a powerful witch.
This was a sweet love story that just happened to have powerful magic and men destined to be together. Characters and the explanation of what the magic looked like were vibrant. Nice story.
I received an arc of this book.
Malakai arrives to help him protect the book. The connection Aaron feels to him is special. As they navigate the magic of the book and their feelings for each other, Aaron’s magic begins to grow. Showing him to be a powerful witch.
This was a sweet love story that just happened to have powerful magic and men destined to be together. Characters and the explanation of what the magic looked like were vibrant. Nice story.
I received an arc of this book.
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