The Witch's Dream

Knights of Black Swan #2

by Victoria Danann

Elora Laiken broke Sir Storm’s heart when she chose his best friend. Now the handsome vampire hunter wants nothing to do with love or even women for that matter. Litha Brandywine is a witch who has other ideas. Like Storm, she works for The Order of the Black Swan and is known as the best tracker on earth. When he arrives at headquarters in Edinburgh, where Litha is currently assigned, she falls hard enough to be up for a test of wills. Though LItha might be perfect for Storm, he's hardened his heart and is determined that he won't be taking any chances on romance.

When B Team arrives in Edinburgh, the afterglow of an elftale wedding ends abruptly when Sir Kay's fiancé, Katrina, is kidnapped by a demon with a grudge. While the tracker, Litha, searches for the missing girl with Storm assigned as her escort, other members of B Team are tasked with bringing in a stray werewolf causing havoc in London and finding him a suitable new home.

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Fantasy, Vampires, Urban Fantasy, Witches

427 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 30, 2012

About the author

Over three million books sold.
Eighteen times Amazon #1.

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, Victoria Danann, is the author of over forty works of romance: paranormal, scifi, fantasy, and contemporary.

Her Knights of Black Swan series was voted BEST PARANORMAL ROMANCE SERIES FIVE YEARS IN A ROW!

WEBSITE: https://www.VictoriaDanann.com

FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/authorvictoriadanann

FOLLOW ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Victoria-Danan...

COZY WOMEN'S ROMANTASY

Not Too Late 1. Midlife Magic
Not Too Late 2. Midlife Mayhem
Not Too Late 3. Midlife Mojo
Not Too Late 4. Midlife at Midnight
Not Too Late 5. Midlife at Midsummer
Not Too Late 6. Trials of Tregeagle
Not Too Late 7. Hallow Hill at Halloween 1
Not Too Late 8. Hallow Hill at Halloween 2 P
Not Too Late 9. MADE


WITCHES and WARLOCKS

Witches of Wimberley 1. Willem
Witches of Wimberley 2. Witch Wants Forever
Witches of Wimberley 3. Wednesday

READING ORDER:


THE KNIGHTS OF BLACK SWAN

Knights of Black Swan 1.My Familiar Stranger
Knights of Black Swan 2. The Witch's Dream
Knights of Black Swan 3. A Summoner's Tale (BEST PARANORMAL ROMANCE NOVEL OF THE YEAR, 2013)
Knights of Black Swan 4. Moonlight (BEST SHIFTER NOVEL OF THE YEAR, 2013)
Knights of Black Swan 5. Gathering Storm
Knights of Black Swan 6. A Tale of Two Kingdoms
Knights of Black Swan 7. Solomon's Sieve (BEST VAMPIRE NOVEL OF THE YEAR, 2014)
Knights of Black Swan 8. Vampire Hunter
Knights of Black Swan 9. Journey Man
Knights of Black Swan 10. Falcon (BEST PARANORMAL ROMANCE NOVEL OF THE YEAR, 2016)
Knights of Black Swan 11. Jax
Knights of Black Swan 12. Deliverance
Knights of Black Swan 13. Black Dog
Knights of Black Swan 14. Trespass
Knights of Black Swan 15. Irish War Cry
Knights of Black Swan 16. The Music Demon

Order of the Black Swan Novels
Black Swan Novel, Prince of Demons


THE HYBRIDS

Exiled 1. Carnal
Exiled 2. Crave
Exiled 3, Charming


THE WEREWOLVES

New Scotia Pack 1. Shield Wolf: Liulf
New Scotia Pack 2. Wolf Lover: Konochur
New Scotia Pack 3. Fire Wolf: Cinaed

HOTBLOODED 1. Stalk


CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

Sons of Sanctuary MC , Book 1. Two Princes
Sons of Sanctuary MC , Book 2. The Biker's Brother
Sons of Sanctuary MC , Book 3. Nomad
Sons of Sanctuary MC , Book 4. Devil's Marker
Sons of Sanctuary MC, Book 5. Roadhouse
Cajun Devils MC, Book 1. Batiste
Sons of Sanctuary MC, Book 5. Roadhouse

Reviews

[Victoria Danann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wrote it so I might be biased. Since I rarely get an opportunity to give my opinion, I'm going to grab the chance.

Every book in this series - at least through the first seven - will pick up where the last ended. In that sense it's a true serial. I'm in the process of creating a saga, a single story told through a series of books over generations.

The way I see it, Book One, My familiar Stranger, drew the parameters of the world, introduced the main characters, and set up the story.

This second book is pure romance. I have informally subtitled it "a love letter to Paranormal ROMANCE". It might be seen as the second act in a three act play.

Book Three, The Summoner's Tale (WINNER of the 2013 BEST PARANORMAL ROMANCE NOVEL of the YEAR, Reviewers' Choice Awards, the Paranormal Romance Guild), is a fasten-your-seat-belt sort of climactic ride wherein I have the opportunity to resolve some things in ways that will be surprising to readers and, I believe, satisfying as well. http://www.VictoriaDanann.com/BlackSw....

When I started writing the series, I promised to begin introducing some real life anecdotes from my years as a practicing "metaphysician". The firefly picnic is based on a real life event.

Hope you enjoy. My best, Victoria

[~*~Princess Nya Vasiliev~*~ · Rating 1 out of 5]

Solid 1.5 Stars-*Mild Spoilers*

This book was extremely disappointing for me.

For one, this book wasn't about Storm & Litha it was about what everything looked like & what everyone was wearing. In great detail, of every single paragraph I might add. And our beloved Ram & Elora took center stage in this one as well. While I love me some Ram, & his coupling with Elora was wonderful, FOR THEIR BOOK. They took up too much precious time in this one. And way too much of the spotlight from Storm & the development for he & Litha. But honestly the first 50% of this novel was given to the description of every single thing pertaining to furniture & clothing. WHO THE HECK CARES?! I'm all for set up & while this lyrical prose was more than welcome in book 1, it had no place in this book. It was way too drawn out. It caused the story to drag & to top it all off, it was pointless. If half the effort was put into the development of Storm & Litha's story & basically the whole plot for that matter, that was put into the description of inanimate objects, this story would have been beyond incredible & an added wonderful 2nd installment to this series.

The book started off with promise. You get a brief but informative background on Deliverance A new demon character who appears to be the central focus for the plot & for Litha. But you soon come to see just how badly the author drops the ball with this. Just how "simple" his place turns out to be within this story. How easy & utterly unbelievable (and not in a good way) & ANTI-CLIMACTIC, the turn of events become from his actions & the aftermath of all things that are resolved, or should I say NOT resolved....Mainly Kay & Katrina??? Where was Kay's reaction to when Litha came back? Where was his demands for answers with Litha about Deliverance concerning what occurred with the love of his life Katrina? None of this was even touched on after the fact. For that matter, where was Litha's reaction upon learning her true heritage? I mean this all left me like...

But yet we're getting constant updates on pointless crap with the families, their surroundings, what they're eating & how happy & in love Ram & Elora still are?
WTH??


And what's the deal with ALL of the main characters leaving The Order? This is only the 2nd book!

Also, I must get this off of my chest... Look, I get & am all for the Female Empowerment Movement. But you can't have a lead heroine be excellent with EVERY SINGLE THING she tries without encountering obstacles. It's not believable & it doesn't always endear the heroine to the readers. It's more likely to irritate them. Like now. Heck even their male counterparts aren't excellent with everything they try. I was willing to over look this a bit in the 1st book, even though it was pushing the envelope then. But it's just getting flat out ridiculous now in this book. Case & point? You'll see when Elora yes, the Queen of "I do everything right the first time & with flare" has her 1st meeting with the handsome Werewolf King, Stalkson Grey *rolls eyes*

Oh & nothing hot happens in this book. No blood pumping, highly deserved carnal pleasure after the suffering, of any kind, happens.
There are some things that allude to this, but nothing shown worth reading about that will make you happy.

I must be honest & admit that this entire book has been kinda ridiculous. But it doesn't stop me from being curious about what will happen next in book 3. I'm really hoping that this book was just one of those books you just have to get through in a series & the horribleness of it is not a trend. Cos there is so much going on, so many different characters being introduced that you will have to read them in order.

I can't recommend this book on the grounds of it being another great installment to the series. As you can see I'm HIGHLY disappointed with it. But I will say you should read it if you are committed to reading this series in order. Especially if you're basing your hope & expectations on how good book 1 is. As I did myself.

I'm just warning you to not expect to be blown away with this one. Your love or hate for this book, could go either way.

[Nelta · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Witch's Dream" is the 2nd book in Victoria Danann's Order of the Black Swan series...I would suggest reading "My Familiar Stranger" prior to reading "The Witch's Dream" to have a better understanding of the characters and storyline ....The second in the series continues and evolves with the same characters you grew to love and introduces you to new characters that only enhance the journey of Bad Company and will surely delight us in the next book....Ms. Danann's style captivates and brings you along for the ride. You find yourself laughing, giggling,holding your breath, and drawn into the lives of the characters. You are caught up in the hot and sexy world of vamps, elves, witches,demons, aliens and werewolves . It's quite the combination and it works ...
I thoroughly enjoyed reading both of the books in this series and can not wait to see what Ms Danann has in store for us next.
I received a free copy of this book from Ms Danann in exchange for a honest review.

[Shurrn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is getting better and better! I adored meeting all the new characters including Litha - another strong female. The Demon Deliverance is a never-ending source of amusement for me; I'd love to see he and Baka spend some time together, I can only imagine what a conversation between the two would be like!



I love that Storm got a chance to fight for something after the bittersweet ending of My Familiar Stranger; and it was neat seeing how young Storm was recruited into Black Swan.

One more thing: the "Under the Window" scene - I. Laughed. Out. Loud

Some of My Favorite Moments:

She was exposed to every myth, doctrine, superstition, and philosophy according to the principle that minds with little education form a narrow palette of capability which is far too easily manipulated. Their view, that mental strength requires a perpetual diet of new material to digest, found perfect expression in Litha's step-by-step development.

He didn’t want to give her the finger. He really, really, really didn’t want to give her the finger. But he gave her the finger, and trotted away grinning at the uproar of laughter from the poor douches who were going to be stuck in that hellhole the rest of the hour.
"Not a bad exit," he thought to himself. "Points shaved for lack of planning, but..."
He didn’t know where he was going or what he was going to do. But he would have felt really good about the whole thing if he had known that Sol Nemamiah would have laughed, on the inside, had he witnessed the teacher receiving a prime example of bird as a parting shot. What you want at your back if you’re heading into a nest of unknown fuck all is not a man who was afraid of a little authority as a kid. That guy would just as likely freeze and shit his pants or vice versa.

“...Never have. Never will. Witches' honor."
Storm barked out a sarcastic laugh that was both rude and startling. "That's very funny. Witches have no honor."
"Really?" she asked. "I hope that's not true, but in my opinion, a man who would say such an ugly thing for no reason other than to hurt someone else isn't qualified to judge who does and does not have honor. In my opinion, such a person shouldn't be knighted, Mr. Storm." And with that she turned and walked away, leaving him standing there alone and wanting to argue some more.

No one ever knows where their personal breaking point is until they reach it. Most are never pressed to such a limit that they find out. Storm wasn’t that lucky.

Deliverance laughed. "You take offense that I accuse you of pointless aggression? Why might that seem insincere?”

“Is this a challenge, daughter of Deliverance? I am Rysagoth Ry Feverloch, Rubicon Tier of Abraxas, from the Second House of Eltii. And the blood of Creation runs in me. What have you on your side?"
She didn't know exactly how to answer that and wondered why she was bothering. "Um. I can count to three in five languages and the Force is with me.”



My Other Reviews in the Knights of the Black Swan series:
(I will update links as they become available)
1. My Familiar Stranger - My Review
2. The Witch's Dream - My Review
3. A Summoner's Tale - My Review
4. Moonlight - My Review
5. Gathering Storm - My Review
6. A Tale of Two Kingdoms - My Review
7. Z Haromny.Com - Anxiously Awaiting Publication
8. Solomon's Sieve - Anxiously Awaiting Publication
9. The Beast Who Loved Me - Anxiously Awaiting Publication

[Kym Grosso · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Witch’s Dream is an excellent sequel to My Familiar Stranger in The Order of the Black Swan Series. It does not disappoint! This fascinating read begins with Ram and Elora’s wedding preparation; it was a treat to meet Ram’s family and learn more about the elves and their traditions. Of course, Storm, the best man, returns to join the wedding party and has difficulty learning to deal with his feelings and heartbreak over losing Elora to Ram as he is still in pain and angry.

A new addition to the storyline is Litha, who is a witch and also part of the Order of the Black Swan. When Kay’s love, Katrina, is kidnapped, Litha who is the only one who is able to locate her through a finding spell. Litha is assigned to search for Katrina, and the brooding Storm is assigned to guard her on her mission. Litha is immediately taken with Storm, yet he fights his attraction to her every step of the way. He does not want to fall in love, but is undeniably intrigued by the witch. Litha and Storm begin an adventure where she finds more than she bargained for, finding her birth father, who just happens to be a demon.

There is so much going on in this wonderful book: magick, adventure and love. It truly is an amazing book. I would suggest to readers that they read the first book in the series, My Familiar Stranger, prior to The Witch’s Dream. I highly recommend the entire series of The Order of the Black Swan. A must read!!!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really connected with My Familiar Stranger, so saying that another book is better is just hard for me to do! The Witch's Dream is fantastic, and I border on the edge of saying it was better than the first! You meet new characters, but she continues on with the story where it left off in the first book. Each character is made so in depth, you can almost see them! The preparation for the wedding was fantastic, I loved how it wasn't a traditional American wedding, but a hand fasting. And then a SECOND wedding, oh, wait, and a THIRD, well, kind of. But you have to read it to find out! What happens to the characters from the first book? Why are new characters in danger and what is B Team going to do about it? You must pick up this book and get reading!

[Pam James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a riveting seqeal.You must read My Familiar Stranger 1st. Following Ram & Elora this book followed Litha into even more dimensions.
"I don't think you believed me when I said I could be entertaining. I'm going to prove it." It had been a long time since a woman had tried to tell Storm what to do. Undoubtedly this was the first time he had ever been both pleased and amused to obey. After a minute passed he smiled and reached for her. "Well, it's not that looking at you without clothes on isn't entertaining. Because certainly it is, but, strictly speaking, I meant something more along the lines of..." She put her fingers to his lips to shush him and smiled. "Okay. Turn around now." He turned his head and his mouth dropped open of its own accord. Thousands upon thousands of fireflies hovered over the river and danced in the trees on the other side. They swooped, darted, and flitted. It was a spectacle that was magical beyond imagination. Storm laughed out loud, a sound so joyful and so rare it startled him, almost making him jump like a puppy with a grown dog's bark. In that moment, he realized he'd never felt that before - that special happiness that transcends life on earth taking you to a place in spirit called rapture. When he turned to look at Litha, there were fireflies encircling her, lighting her face. So that's what love looks like. When he thought about the fact that he might have missed this, might have missed out on loving Litha... Just a small excerpt from the book. Loved this book!!!! From a True Forever Fan... Pam James

[Anna Salamatin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second installment finds B Team along with elves, werewolf, berserkers, fae, demon,a witch among others at a beautiful Irish Castle for a handfasting while on their way to another assignment.
What should have been a good time for all quickly turns to what may become a diplomatic incident with the werewolves, and if that's not enough,there is a Demon abduction!
But,with all of this, Storm finds that just because he gave up on love....Love sure didn't give up on him.
I can't imagine anyone not already being hooked after reading "My Familiar Stranger" (and I strongly suggest this as a first read)
Witch's Dream is a remarkable journey to the place where fairytales come from and true love is found.

[Michelle Stein · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Witches Dream is Fantastic! I love how the book starts off as if you never finished the first one, My Familiar Stranger :) Its nice to see more about the characters besides just being part of the B-Team.
I gotta say I was a little disappointed with how Storm treated Lilith in the begining. I wanted to knock some sense into him before he ruined his chance of finally being happy. Glad he decided to get his act together. There were other points in the book that I loved, as well, but I'd be spoiling WAY too much! Lol

[Bleumoon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I have grown so attached to the characters and can not wait to visit their world again and again! This book had a very nice pace that never felt rushed. It grabs you from the beginning and sweeps you along. Not as much action as the first book but still very enjoyable! I love that the characters are growing but still staying true to themselves. I look forward to many adventures with Elora and the rest of Bad Company.

[Maggie Nolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, The Witch's Dream is the second book in the Order of the Black Swan series...so if you haven't read My Familiar Stranger (book 1), read it first as it is also a great read! The Witch's Dream is a wonderful sequel to book 1. It picks up as Elora and Ram's wedding planning is in full swing. This book gives us much more depth into the lives of the members of B Team, and those who are important in their lives including Ram's family members, Kay's family, Katrina (Kay's fiance), and Baka, who is now more involved with The Order. Both Kay's and Storm's lives take significant turns in this book. New characters weave into the story as B Team is relocated for temporary duties. The new personalities include: Aelsong (Ram's sister), the Prince of the Fae, Litha (a witch), Deliverance (a demon with a heart), several werewolves, and Heaven (Baka's new assistant). I don't want to give away too much and potentially spoil the story, but the story involves action, passion, drama, love, and new relationships. This is a MUST READ. I absolutely loved this book. And now I am waiting anxiously for book #3! Victoria Danann has outdone herself and in doing so has become one of my favorite authors.

[JoBeth Sexton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victoria Danann has skillfully brought to life such realistic characters that you might expect to meet them on your next trip through the city. This book is so beautifully written that it creates striking visuals and rich emotions in the reader's imagination and leaves us breathless for more. Her well developed characters make us laugh, make us teary-eyed and excite us in the best possible way.
Speaking as someone who wouldn't have touched a romance novel of any kind before now, Victoria Danann convinced me her books are more than worth experiencing before I was done with the first few pages. I can't wait to sink my teeth into the next installment of The Order of the Black Swan or, for that matter, read The Witch's Dream again!

[Tifinie Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Witch's Dream picks up shortly after My Familiar Stranger. In this book bad company travels to other countries and new adventures. Along the way we meet some new characters that are woven into the story line which adds to the adventures of the characters that we have grown to love. With the introduction of a witch and demon there is no telling where Ms Danann will take us. Ms Danann has cast a spell on me and hopefully all of her readers with The Witch's Dream. I can't wait to see what the next book will bring. In order to fully understand and enjoy The Order Of The Black Swan series you will want to read the books in order.

[Michelle Stein · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Witches Dream is Fantastic! I love how the book starts off as if you never finished the first one, My Familiar Stranger :) Its nice to see more about the characters besides just being part of the B-Team.
I gotta say I was a little disappointed with how Storm treated Lilith in the begining. I wanted to knock some sense into him before he ruined his chance of finally being happy. Glad he decided to get his act together. There were other points in the book that I loved, as well, but I'd be spoiling WAY too.much! Lol

[Laurel Wistrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victoria Danann has done it again!! Witch's Dream picked up where My Familiar Stranger left off. We get to see B Team in a different enviroment that is so much fun watch. The handfasting, Storm's reaction to finding love, the incubus and problems he creates are just a tip of what happens in this book. You will love this on going saga Order of the Black Swan.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

While it's more of love story than book 1, it still has enough fantasy and conflict to be a great paranormal read.

[Liz Cabrejos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was quite excited when the author asked if I would be interested in receiving an ARC of book two in the Black Swans series. Having loved book one, of-course I said yes. She did not disappoint. I thought book two was a little slow in the beginning, not giving me as much of a fix of the characters I have grown to love. However slow it might've been in the beginning, she made up completely with the rest of the storyline. We're again brought into the beautiful love and romance of Elora & Ram. We're introduced to Kay & Katrina and his crazy sisters. Best of all, we watch Storm still moping around, not himself at all in the aftermath of the whole love triangle. The great surprise in this book is Lithia, a demon and a witch, who's dad is an incubus!! Love, love, loved the book. The details that this writer puts into her stories are just, well....wonderful. Enjoyed it just as much if not a bit more than book one. With that said, bring on book 3, Baka needs me! Lol

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My word this is a dream of a book! It continues straight after My Familiar Stranger and takes you straight back into the lives of B Company. The whole book is a joy to read and I am so glad that Elora now has company in the "women with spirit" category. Litha and Song look like they are going to keep the baton going :o)

If you are expecting a vampire romance, you can forget it. They don't even really get a mention in this book, apart from ex-vampire Baka (who's story I can't wait to read!) but what you do get is demons, a look at Kay's berserker side and magic of the practical kind.

I love the way these books are written and often find myself laughing out loud as I read. The characters continue to grow and as an added little extra you get an interview with Ram at the end of this book.

5 out of 5, 10 out of 10 - whichever way you want to look at it, these books are fantastic.

[Cahm · Rating 5 out of 5]

An epic adventure you will read over and over again!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This also reviews MY FAMILIAR STRANGER (Order of the Black Swan, #1)
Original Post
http://fangswandsandfairydust.blogspo...



These books are like crack for readers. I was hooked after reading the first book in this series and immediately began the second. To put it mildly I was swept off my feet. Everything from the world-building to the sex was excellent.

The world is a very complex, quantum multi-verse, very intricate and well thought out. I don’t know if Victoria built everything up before hand or if she manages to invent these intricacies as she writes. I suspect the former because so far I haven’t fallen over any continuity problems.

The characters are really appealing as well, and unique. I am really pleased with the development of each person in the story. There is a purpose for each.

Indeed, everything is highly detailed, location, character and species.

For example Abraxas demons:

“Abraxas are the spiritual expression of sex – which has two faces – the power of love and the joys of mutual sharing, or its opposite: domination, humiliation, sadism cruelty. “(The Witch’s Dream, page 6 pdf)

Dannan’s voice is unique, in a good way. Her style is halfway between showing and telling, which gives it a modern edge, like a report with feeling. I liked the almost scientific impression I got as I read.

And the relationships, from first glance to intimacy, the relationships sometimes develop quickly but they do develop. And the physical intimacy is sexy and erotic without vulgarity.

Part of my job is also pointing out the areas I find challenging. The style shows an organized writer bringing us well-developed everything and lots of detail. Therein lies the rub: when is it too much detail. A good pruning would make the story stronger. Too much detail treats everything from the design of a nightclub to the intricacies of plot with the same level of importance. I appreciate that Victoria has put so much thought into each aspect of her world; it gives the work a strong foundation.

But sometimes I don’t need to see what’s holding it together; if the continuity is good, the foundation of the story can work behind the scenes. I found myself mentally editing the stories. If the reader has to fill in the blanks on her own it makes it more engaging. It’s weird but as I read I realized that both too much and too little detail can make things feel like an outline. Editing would often make a huge difference in a book – whether it’s a mainstream publisher, a competent indy or someone paid to edit. I was reading an uncorrected proof so some of the typos and verb tense issues I found may well have been changed.

This leads me to one other issue: obvious foreshadowing. Look! Look! …. Look! With so much detail, I am not allowed to feel the event that is about to happen' not allowed to see it unfold. There are too many clues; the storyline becomes obvious. Way before I get to the event it’s happened in my head and the next event is shaping itself.

I liken this to a painting where the artist gets carried away and has a hard time deciding the painting is complete and that a particular area should be left unspecific.

Did these minor "flaws" it make the book less readable, less exciting, less compelling? No, like I said, I began the second immediately after the first. And, keep in mind, I am not a big fantasy world person. Victoria manages to create worlds=on-worlds that are familiar enough that a glossary is not needed. While at first I wondered, which of the dimensions was the one I inhabit, I quickly stopped doing that and gave into the worlds she was creating. It is not often where I find flaws that are outweighed by the merits of a book, so this is an unusual instance for me. While some editing is called for I would still say these books are examples of superior writing and HIGHLY RECOMMEND them.

I liked it so much I immediately picked up book three! I will review THE SUMMONER'S TALE and the upcoming MOONLIGHT: Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf, and on May 7, Victoria herself drops in with an exclusive playlist you won’t find elsewhere.

[Tracey Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this from the author as an ARC....thank you very much Victoria!

Well we continue with the B company right where we left off after The order of the Black Swan 1. I am so glad we did because I love all the characters in this series. The first book had a love triangle (which I normally hate) but it was appropriate for the story. This one has the aftermath of that decision and no love triangle. Just a tight knit group of people trying to work through their issues and emotions.

One of my favorite scenes in book one was where Kay tells Ram all the reasons why he will not be the chosen one..that whole scene is so good, I re-read it a couple of times. One of my favorite scenes in book two is where Storm finally really looks at himself and gets moving forward. I missed Kay being the voice of reason and being more involved in this book.

There is not as much action in this one but there is plenty of foreshadowing of things to come with other side characters. The ending felt pretty sewn up for our favorite B company, BUT I think that they are not done. The vampire crisis is being taken care of, but as in real life as one crisis finds solutions, other ones arise, and I think the werewolves, elves and fairies will rear their problematic heads. I just hope that we still get to see the B company fully involved.

I love how Elora continues to grow more confidant and she continues to shake up the Order of the Black Swan. I loved Litha too, she does not beat around the bush and goes directly to the point repeatedly. The guys of Company B don't really know what hit them with these two women. While I understand that Katrina and Kay's sisters were not privy to the jobs and duties of the Order, they did not really grow on me. Katrina was a little bland and I wanted a little more spark from her. Ram's sister however, I see real potential for her.

I look forward to seeing more about Elora, Ram, Kay, Litha and Storm

[Libby Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE that Victoria does not prescribe to tired stereotypes when creating storylines and developing characters! I LOVE that the female lead characters are SO strong of mind, body and power, without emasculating the sexy-as-Hell male leads!!!

Again, my husband enjoyed me reading this book, (like Black Swan 1) because I laugh out loud the entire time I'm reading!! LOL

I spent the beginning of the book saying, "Storm, you're an idiot!!!" It was MORE than satisfying when he realized it himself... I was laughing through plentiful tears!!!

I was pleasantly surprised, (big understatement) to realize Victoria doesn't write one novel about ONE couple while she mentions a other characters peripherally... Then move on to a different couple in her next novel. She writes books about this special group of magnificently honorable, flawed, hilariously-genuine heroes (heroes in the physical sense, but more-so in the sense that they are the kind of people I would like to have in my life, the kind of people who have a deep sense of honor, integrity, loyalty, and aren't afraid to love intensely!!) that I have come to love!! She follows them all through the books so it feels very much like I have become a part of their make-shift family... The character development is much richer than in a "typical" romance!!!

Can't recommend these books enough... I'm craving my next fix of the delicious Black Swan Saga!!!

[Dee Bowerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absoluetly awesome 2nd book in this series. It picks up right where My Familiar leaves off with Elora and Ram's wedding.Storm is happy for his teammates but extremely sad for himself.When Kay's fiance is kidnapped by an incubus demon(a very sexy bent on revenge demon)Storm must help the lovable witch Litha try to find them. Victoria you have done it again. the story flows so smoothly and is completely captivating!

[Laura Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found that this book was like the first kinda hard to read the 1st two chapters.... But by chapter 3 you're hooked and digging in. The characters are so lifelike and endearing that they drag you right into their worlds and adventures. I am anxiously awaiting book 3!!! Love the series!!!

[Between the Bind · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars from Between the Bind.

The Witch's Dream begins right where My Familiar Stranger left off. Elora and Ram are planning their wedding and all of B company is coming to join them in Ireland for the big day. Storm is still healing from his broken heart and trying to make amends with Elora and Ram, Kay and Katrina are brought into the main storyline a bit more, Baka is out womanizing (surprise!) and Lithia, the sexy green eyed witch, is the perfect distraction within the chaos.

I would say the first 20 percent of this book was setting us up for the amazingness that followed. Although, I do believe that was Ms. Danann's intention, as My Familiar Stranger began slowly as well. The Witch's Dream quickly progressed and had me captivated from that point on, not taking and break and quickly reading through the rest of this incredible book.

Without giving too much of the plot away, we are introduced to incubi and FINALLY get to meet some sexy-as-get-out fairies! Although the vampire issue is being slowly iradicated, there is some definite foreshadowing to the next issues that need solving in the series.

Briefly, I would like to chat about a few new characters. Lithia quickly wormed her way into my heart. Almost as bad-ass as Elora, with some awesome powers to boot, she knows what she wants and doesn't take no for an answer. Ram's sister, Aelsong, was a HOOT and I *think* we may see her as the focus of one of the future books in the series. Deliverance is an incubi demon. Busy being gods gift to women and all "kidnapper" and what not, I was surprised that he grew me. A kind of aloof villain in a sense. And the prince of the fae - MmM! I love me some long haired, progressive thinking men, let me tell you what!

The Witch's Dream was dramatically fun, sexy, and addictive. It reminded me why I loved B company (like I needed reminding!) while simultaneously introducing me to what seems to be our new cast of misfits and deviants (whom I love dearly). If you haven't already, read My Familiar Stranger(Amazon) so that when The Witch's Dream is released, you're ready to jump feet first into the next installment in this fantastic paranormal series.

[Ellen Sandberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story continues from the events of the first book. It is best to read the books in order to see how the story and characters grow and develop. Believe me, you don't want to miss anything in this series.

In The Witch's Dream, we are introduces to Litha. She is part witch and part something else. She sees Storm from and distance and falls hard for him. Is it love at first sight? Well, maybe not at first sight because he has been coming to her in dreams and their paths have crossed in other ways. But from the first time she sees him, she knows he is the one. Storm however has closed off his heart and stubbornly refuses to see the truth in front of him. Sometimes he deserves a swift kick in the pants. However, his reactions are never unrealistic. He is just stubborn and deeply hurt.

This is a great addition to the series. Litha is strong and intelligent. Yes, she does take a lot of rejection from Storm without giving up. But she is never a doormat. She fights for what she believe in and for what she knows is true. She is also brave and unselfish enough to put the needs of others before her own. She agrees to stay with her father if he releases his prisoner even though that might mean leaving Storm and the world she knows forever. Then we get to know her father. When he first appears, I admit I really hated him. How he develops over the story is really remarkable. His wonder at finding that he has a daughter and his joy at doing things for her is truly a delight to read. It is his obvious pleasure in doing things for her and being able to give her things rather than the actual physical gifts that earns Litha love and trust. I wound up looking forward to his appearances.

What I also love about this series is while the major theme of the story may be about Litha and Storm, we do get the continuing tale of Elora, Ram, Blackie, Baka, and Kay. We also learn more about this universe and some of the neighbouring ones.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Witch’s Dream is the second book in Victoria Danann’s The Order of the Black Swan series. This was an awesome follow-up to My Familiar Stranger. I think this book was done the way a lot of other follow-ups should be done. It takes place right after the first book. Its like the story didn’t have any kind of pause. This story does focus more on Storm and his HEA with Litha. Storm’s heartache over Elora and Ram’s handfasting soon ebbs after meeting Litha. I loved Litha’s character. She was very determined and definitely the perfect fit for Storm. Even though it focuses on Storm and Litha, Elora and Ram still have very prominent parts. Though the focus of the main story shifts we are still getting concurrent and continuing story of Elora and Ram. This is rarely done and I loved this tremendously. I also enjoyed the addition of other outside characters like Ram’s sister Alesong and Kay’s sisters. It felt like love was in the air with this book. I was hoping for HEA everywhere. Not to mention one of the first steamy sex scenes takes place completely in a dream. Overall, this was an awesome second book and I can’t wait for the next one. I whole-heartedly recommend reading this book, but I would suggest reading My Familiar Stranger first.

[CaroleDee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Danann does it again. The lady knows how to weave quite the story. Filled with magick, love, and jealousy The Witch's Dream is a sweet and sexy good time :)

Picking up shortly after My Familiar stranger we get to dive right back into the world of the B Team. Ram and Elora are still going strong. We get an introduction to Kay's fiance and hilarious sisters. And thankfully Storm gets a love interest introduced. Poor guy had his heart broken when Elora chose Ram above him, so watching him struggle through loneliness and rejection was hard at the beginning. With the introduction of the enchanting witch Lithia he gets his well deserved chance at happiness.

I'd have to say that my favorite parts of The Witch's Dream revolved around Lithia's rituals with her magick. With Danann's background with Wicca/mysticism it was awesome to read. It left me wondering how much was based on factual Wiccan rites. As someone that enjoys reading about different religions I foresee a Wiccan fact finding mission in my future :)

If you adored My Familiar Stranger then you'll fall in love all over again with The Witch's Dream.

[Janice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could very easily sit down and read it all night but I am Loving it & really enjoying the characters & their interactions. So i am re-reading again. The story lines fresh & fun. The author is descriptive enough to paint a wonderful scene without ever making it boring. I fell in love with the characters in the first book My Familiar Stranger . They grew , argued & fought & loved , making me laugh & cry & want to kick some serious butt with them as much as tear off some clothing along the way! lol. This one they grow more, fight more & love even better. I already cannot wait for the third book. All I can truly say is Victoria Danann -- Thank you!

[Shanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really looking forward to this one because I felt so bad for Storm in the first one, it was so good to see him move on and find someone new. This is a great addition to series. I also love how the stories continue for the rest of the crew as well. Victoria is a wonderful storyteller and I will continue reading to the end. Thanks so much for a wonderful read.