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The Faerie Wars #1
The Guardian
I always thought my mom was crazy, with her offerings to the fairies and whispered spells. After she died, I followed her last wishes and performed her final rites - only for my life to turn instantly upside down. My kitchen is now full of three insanely sexy and opinionated men who claim to be witches and fairy knights -and also my soulmates. They claim I have a great destiny, that I am meant to defeat the Elvish Queen, who my mother has been fleeing all of these years!
don’t want an epic destiny, though, I just want to be normal for once in my life, if there is such a thing. With the help of my new companions, Onyx, Terran, and Reed. I will discover strengths inside myself that I had never known and an underworld greater than anything I could have imagined. Now, I must find out if I have the strength to face my destiny and myself!
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2019
689 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
February 6, 2019
I think all I can really say about this book is "eh not bad".
This is one of those things that if I had read this book before I had gotten into reverse harem books, I would have been in love with it. However, it seemed to follow all the usual patterns without much being exciting in it. It all seemed like it had been done before, despite the unique environment.
This is one of those things that if I had read this book before I had gotten into reverse harem books, I would have been in love with it. However, it seemed to follow all the usual patterns without much being exciting in it. It all seemed like it had been done before, despite the unique environment.
January 31, 2019
Interesting
Still on the fence with this, but I’ll definitely check out Book 2 when it comes out. Typical story - girl with hidden past, and the guys who help her discover it and guard her. Let’s not forget the required prophecy. Pretty standard PNR RH fare.... or so I thought. It changes things up about a third of the way in. Oh, she still has a hidden past and they still guard her, but SHE’S a Guardian too... or will be. Plus there are a few other details that flip the script and make this worth reading.
Pros:
- Not exactly what you think it will be.
- Onyx... jerk of a guy, kinda love him.
- Can feel a complex history being built.
- Slow burn.
- Some scenes are LOL.
Cons:
- Formulaic... at first.
- Felt rushed.
- Info dump a time or two.
Still on the fence with this, but I’ll definitely check out Book 2 when it comes out. Typical story - girl with hidden past, and the guys who help her discover it and guard her. Let’s not forget the required prophecy. Pretty standard PNR RH fare.... or so I thought. It changes things up about a third of the way in. Oh, she still has a hidden past and they still guard her, but SHE’S a Guardian too... or will be. Plus there are a few other details that flip the script and make this worth reading.
Pros:
- Not exactly what you think it will be.
- Onyx... jerk of a guy, kinda love him.
- Can feel a complex history being built.
- Slow burn.
- Some scenes are LOL.
Cons:
- Formulaic... at first.
- Felt rushed.
- Info dump a time or two.
Want to read
June 1, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/1/2019)! 🎁
February 4, 2019
This was a decent book, with an interesting, if unexplored (as of yet) world and magic (which was a bit more explained). I liked all of the characters, both main and side, and the story was relatively engaging. I did think it moved slowly at times, with chunks where I was a bit bored, but when it got good, it really grabbed me. I overall enjoyed it, but thought the world building could use some work, along with the pacing. I liked the romance. 3.5 stars.
November 6, 2022
Meh, not bad.
February 1, 2019
Love Quinn
I love everything Quinn puts out, she is definitely an auto buy for me. Her characters are always so amazing and the plot is well written. I literally just finished her Valkyrie book and picked this up. I loved the start of this and can’t wait for more ❤️❤️❤️
I love everything Quinn puts out, she is definitely an auto buy for me. Her characters are always so amazing and the plot is well written. I literally just finished her Valkyrie book and picked this up. I loved the start of this and can’t wait for more ❤️❤️❤️
February 5, 2019
Cliffhanger ending.
April 12, 2020
DNF 15%
The writing was too basic and the guys horribly cliche and flat.
The writing was too basic and the guys horribly cliche and flat.
January 12, 2019
Quinn Arthur’s has written an original story with The Guardian, which at times is emotional, funny, and fierce with one epic cliffhanger.
If you love Fae, Witches, strong characters, developing relationships, beautiful friendship and bullies that need to be taken down a peg, you’ll love this story. It’s also a quotable book with some fabulous lines and character nicknames.
I highly recommend the first book in The Faerie Wars series, and I’m looking forward to reading the next addition of Tori’s story.
If you love Fae, Witches, strong characters, developing relationships, beautiful friendship and bullies that need to be taken down a peg, you’ll love this story. It’s also a quotable book with some fabulous lines and character nicknames.
I highly recommend the first book in The Faerie Wars series, and I’m looking forward to reading the next addition of Tori’s story.
February 24, 2019
Go for something else
The setting and writing is very good, but the main character is bratty and a pain. If the main character was better this could have been great, but because of her the book honestly isn’t worth the read.
The setting and writing is very good, but the main character is bratty and a pain. If the main character was better this could have been great, but because of her the book honestly isn’t worth the read.
April 11, 2024
4 Stars
I'm not sure if I really liked this book or if I want to punch all the characters in their faces—or both.
Meet Tourmaline/Tori. She is our young female lead, who is somewhere between the ages of 18 and 30. Most of the time I hoped someone, specifically her dead mother, would punch her hard enough so Tori would end up choking on her teeth. This girl is so unlikeable.
...Anyway, Tori's mother dies in the first few pages of this book. Tori is so horribly dismissive, condescending, and cruel about her mother's beliefs that I'm surprised she actually went along with doing the ritual for her last rites. Once the ritual is performed, three warriors show up in her kitchen, and craziness ensues. Soulmates. Guardians. Fae realm. Wars. Intrigue.
The Guys
🗡️Onyx: Supreme asshole. Condescending. Cruel. Outright rejects his soulmate and does everything in his power to get her sent away. Fae (he gets a bit better toward the end).
💧River: Analytical. Misses social cues. Understands hard data, not abstract thoughts or feelings. (First, the book says he's a witch, then it says Fae, then it says witch, sooo...?) Water element.
🌲Terran: The group leader. Earth Witch. 🤷♀️ I dunno much more about him.
Female Main Character
💎 Tourmaline: outright rejects soulmates, rejects fate, rejects destiny, rejects prophecy, rejects e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. She is desperate to go home to her human life where she will be immediately murdered. Even if she's not murdered, she works minimum wage as a maid, has no friends, is poor enough to be starving most of the time, and has no future. Half fae, half witch. Prophesied one. Strong magic. She is subtly judgmental and cruel but acts super friendly, accepting, and caring.
It may seem like I didn't like this book, but I'm hooked on the plot, even though I despise Tori and (less so) Onyx. The world-building is pretty vague so far; hopefully, that improves. The characters aren't fully developed: they don't have much personality yet, we don't know their backstories or age, and we don't know what most of these people look like.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book despite my complaints.
- 📚 Series
- 👀 POV: Single, first person
- 📖 Portal Fantasy
- ❣️ Reverse Harem
- 🎱 Tropes: Chosen one, fated mates, guardians, prophecy, fae, witches, magic, secret heritage, unknown dangers, mystery
- 🌎 3/5 World-building Stars
- ⭐️ 4/5 Plot-line Stars
- 😱 3/5 Angsty Stars
- 🤓 3.5/5 Character Development Stars
- 🍒 Virgins: None
- ♥️ 0/5 Romance Stars
- 🌶 0.5/5 Spicy Stars
- 🔥 Slow Burn
- 👄 Kinks: None, no steam but kissing.
- 🚫 No: OW, Cheating, dub/non-con
- ‼️ Triggers: violence, death of a parent, hints of future MM relationships, attempted murder, mild bullying
I'm not sure if I really liked this book or if I want to punch all the characters in their faces—or both.
Meet Tourmaline/Tori. She is our young female lead, who is somewhere between the ages of 18 and 30. Most of the time I hoped someone, specifically her dead mother, would punch her hard enough so Tori would end up choking on her teeth. This girl is so unlikeable.
...Anyway, Tori's mother dies in the first few pages of this book. Tori is so horribly dismissive, condescending, and cruel about her mother's beliefs that I'm surprised she actually went along with doing the ritual for her last rites. Once the ritual is performed, three warriors show up in her kitchen, and craziness ensues. Soulmates. Guardians. Fae realm. Wars. Intrigue.
The Guys
🗡️Onyx: Supreme asshole. Condescending. Cruel. Outright rejects his soulmate and does everything in his power to get her sent away. Fae (he gets a bit better toward the end).
💧River: Analytical. Misses social cues. Understands hard data, not abstract thoughts or feelings. (First, the book says he's a witch, then it says Fae, then it says witch, sooo...?) Water element.
🌲Terran: The group leader. Earth Witch. 🤷♀️ I dunno much more about him.
Female Main Character
💎 Tourmaline: outright rejects soulmates, rejects fate, rejects destiny, rejects prophecy, rejects e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. She is desperate to go home to her human life where she will be immediately murdered. Even if she's not murdered, she works minimum wage as a maid, has no friends, is poor enough to be starving most of the time, and has no future. Half fae, half witch. Prophesied one. Strong magic. She is subtly judgmental and cruel but acts super friendly, accepting, and caring.
It may seem like I didn't like this book, but I'm hooked on the plot, even though I despise Tori and (less so) Onyx. The world-building is pretty vague so far; hopefully, that improves. The characters aren't fully developed: they don't have much personality yet, we don't know their backstories or age, and we don't know what most of these people look like.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book despite my complaints.
- 📚 Series
- 👀 POV: Single, first person
- 📖 Portal Fantasy
- ❣️ Reverse Harem
- 🎱 Tropes: Chosen one, fated mates, guardians, prophecy, fae, witches, magic, secret heritage, unknown dangers, mystery
- 🌎 3/5 World-building Stars
- ⭐️ 4/5 Plot-line Stars
- 😱 3/5 Angsty Stars
- 🤓 3.5/5 Character Development Stars
- 🍒 Virgins: None
- ♥️ 0/5 Romance Stars
- 🌶 0.5/5 Spicy Stars
- 🔥 Slow Burn
- 👄 Kinks: None, no steam but kissing.
- 🚫 No: OW, Cheating, dub/non-con
- ‼️ Triggers: violence, death of a parent, hints of future MM relationships, attempted murder, mild bullying
January 15, 2019
I enjoyed this story. I did have a bit of trouble getting into it but that is typical for me with books that are first in the series. The characters and world were developed enough to connect but I am interested in learning more throughout the rest of the series. Here is a bit more detail of what did and didn't work for me.
What I Liked:
Tourmaline, the main female character. She annoyed me a bit in the beginning but once she started training with her guardians, I liked her and understood her more.
River, a servant of the hold and Tori's friend. I liked both her character and her friendship with Tori. She allowed us to see Tori's softer more compassionate nature. Additionally, it is refreshing when not all other females in romance are villainous.
Reed, Terran and Onyx, Tori's guardians. I immediately liked Reed, was indifferent to Terran and didn't like Onyx but I believe this was intentional. By the end of this book, I still knew almost nothing about them but they all had distinctive personalities. I am looking forward to their back stories.
The pace of the relationship. My favorite thing about RH is the relationship building. In a lot of books intimacy happens in lieu of this. Not so in this book. I am anxiously awaiting getting to watch these characters learn more about each other and grow together.
Opal! You will need to read to find out who she is.
What I Didn't Like:
As mentioned above, Tori was a bit annoying in the beginning. One of reasons is that she would ask questions or mention she didn't know much but then asked not to be told about certain things. While part of me understood due to informational/situational overload as a reader, I wanted this information.
There was a conversation that occured that indicated this may end up as more of a poly relationship instead of a reverse harem. Since I am super possessive and jealous for my main female character, I don't love this. This type of relationship seems to be extremely popular though so if my speculation ends up being correct there will be a lot of happy readers.
Overall, this was a great story and I am excited to get further immersed into Tori and her guardians world. Oh and more Opal!!!!
What I Liked:
Tourmaline, the main female character. She annoyed me a bit in the beginning but once she started training with her guardians, I liked her and understood her more.
River, a servant of the hold and Tori's friend. I liked both her character and her friendship with Tori. She allowed us to see Tori's softer more compassionate nature. Additionally, it is refreshing when not all other females in romance are villainous.
Reed, Terran and Onyx, Tori's guardians. I immediately liked Reed, was indifferent to Terran and didn't like Onyx but I believe this was intentional. By the end of this book, I still knew almost nothing about them but they all had distinctive personalities. I am looking forward to their back stories.
The pace of the relationship. My favorite thing about RH is the relationship building. In a lot of books intimacy happens in lieu of this. Not so in this book. I am anxiously awaiting getting to watch these characters learn more about each other and grow together.
Opal! You will need to read to find out who she is.
What I Didn't Like:
As mentioned above, Tori was a bit annoying in the beginning. One of reasons is that she would ask questions or mention she didn't know much but then asked not to be told about certain things. While part of me understood due to informational/situational overload as a reader, I wanted this information.
There was a conversation that occured that indicated this may end up as more of a poly relationship instead of a reverse harem. Since I am super possessive and jealous for my main female character, I don't love this. This type of relationship seems to be extremely popular though so if my speculation ends up being correct there will be a lot of happy readers.
Overall, this was a great story and I am excited to get further immersed into Tori and her guardians world. Oh and more Opal!!!!
January 15, 2019
A great beginning for a new series.
Tourmaline, or Tori as she likes to be called, always assumed her mother was crazy.
Yet she indulged her dying wish to speak one last spell at her death.
Little did she know that doing so would open her up to a whole new world she never knew existed.
When three men suddenly appear in her kitchen, she believes to be hallucinating.
But the werewolf jumping through her wall?
That cements things just a little bit more.
Reed, Terran, and Onyx whisk Tori off to the Fae realm where the Ancients decide to have her train as a guardian because of her mixed blood.
Read to know what happens between the four of them.
This story is following a very short timeline but is jam packed with action.
Tori is a very strong-willed and independent woman.
She has had to be because of her mother.
Growing up she thought the woman was crazy for believing in magic, but it turns out Tori should have paid a little closer attention.
There are beings out there who would have hurt her long ago if not for her mother's interference.
I loved how original this story line was.
Sure it has magic, Fae, semi-kidnapping, and a harem of guys like some stories, but how it was put together is uniquely its own.
The characters are probably some of my favorite.
You have your lovable but somewhat socially awkward Terran.
The serious and leader of the group Reed.
And of course, what story is complete with the alpha-hole them-self, Onyx.
Even some of the side characters are really pleasing.
Such as Opal, the baby dragon created from paper.
While I was reading, I did see a few errors, but nothing so major that it deters you away from your reading.
This is a slow burn reverse harem.
Only a few kisses, and one hot make-out session to divert attention.
Overall, this is a fantastic start to a new series and I can't wait to see where it leads.
It does end on a pretty big cliffhanger, so be prepared for that.
But I highly recommend reading it.
It will suck you in and want you want more.
Tourmaline, or Tori as she likes to be called, always assumed her mother was crazy.
Yet she indulged her dying wish to speak one last spell at her death.
Little did she know that doing so would open her up to a whole new world she never knew existed.
When three men suddenly appear in her kitchen, she believes to be hallucinating.
But the werewolf jumping through her wall?
That cements things just a little bit more.
Reed, Terran, and Onyx whisk Tori off to the Fae realm where the Ancients decide to have her train as a guardian because of her mixed blood.
Read to know what happens between the four of them.
This story is following a very short timeline but is jam packed with action.
Tori is a very strong-willed and independent woman.
She has had to be because of her mother.
Growing up she thought the woman was crazy for believing in magic, but it turns out Tori should have paid a little closer attention.
There are beings out there who would have hurt her long ago if not for her mother's interference.
I loved how original this story line was.
Sure it has magic, Fae, semi-kidnapping, and a harem of guys like some stories, but how it was put together is uniquely its own.
The characters are probably some of my favorite.
You have your lovable but somewhat socially awkward Terran.
The serious and leader of the group Reed.
And of course, what story is complete with the alpha-hole them-self, Onyx.
Even some of the side characters are really pleasing.
Such as Opal, the baby dragon created from paper.
While I was reading, I did see a few errors, but nothing so major that it deters you away from your reading.
This is a slow burn reverse harem.
Only a few kisses, and one hot make-out session to divert attention.
Overall, this is a fantastic start to a new series and I can't wait to see where it leads.
It does end on a pretty big cliffhanger, so be prepared for that.
But I highly recommend reading it.
It will suck you in and want you want more.
February 11, 2019
This was my first time reading anything by Quinn Arthurs and I really enjoyed it!! I loved the 3 guys the Tori meets after she loses her mom. I loved that her mom was sneaky and gave Tori people to help her/gave her one last surprise. Tori is thrust into the world of the fae and witches when she finds out her mom and her life are not what she thought. She has been hidden her whole life and now she needs her guardians to help protect her from those who seek her harm.
In book one of the Faerie Wars, we get to know Tori, her 3 guardians (Onyx, Terran, and Reed), her new bff River, and her super loyal and funny "pet" Opal hehe. I am a nerd at heart so Reed made me snort a couple times with his awkwardness and showed his lack of propriety/boundary issues with Tori haha. Terran is totally the gentle giant and I am really interested to learn more about him. Onyx is the quintessential thorn in Tori's butt but turns around for the better once he realizes she didn't do this on purpose and is a force to be reckoned with. You don't realize how amazing something is until you almost lose it.
I loved the powers mentioned in this story. Tori does best when using gems, geeking out to the geology lessons throughout this book haha, and River learns she is more than just your average artist. Tori shows them they don't have to stay in one box, that they can look at their powers with a different perspective and become stronger in the process. I loved the things River could do and loved that we got to learn about her as well. I would kill to have a bff like her. Also, Tori is totally BA! The way she stands up to bullies is great and Quinn does a great job describing her powers and showing us little parts of it and not giving it all away. I am so excited for book 2 and would definitely recommend this book ❤️
In book one of the Faerie Wars, we get to know Tori, her 3 guardians (Onyx, Terran, and Reed), her new bff River, and her super loyal and funny "pet" Opal hehe. I am a nerd at heart so Reed made me snort a couple times with his awkwardness and showed his lack of propriety/boundary issues with Tori haha. Terran is totally the gentle giant and I am really interested to learn more about him. Onyx is the quintessential thorn in Tori's butt but turns around for the better once he realizes she didn't do this on purpose and is a force to be reckoned with. You don't realize how amazing something is until you almost lose it.
I loved the powers mentioned in this story. Tori does best when using gems, geeking out to the geology lessons throughout this book haha, and River learns she is more than just your average artist. Tori shows them they don't have to stay in one box, that they can look at their powers with a different perspective and become stronger in the process. I loved the things River could do and loved that we got to learn about her as well. I would kill to have a bff like her. Also, Tori is totally BA! The way she stands up to bullies is great and Quinn does a great job describing her powers and showing us little parts of it and not giving it all away. I am so excited for book 2 and would definitely recommend this book ❤️
February 1, 2020
The Guardian is one of those run-of-the-mill books in this genre, you know the one that has a prophecy and blatantly obvious special snowflake female lead.
The plot is rather straightforward, the world building is not that explorative being limited to the Hold place so it's not much of an immersive experience when we just move to different rooms and interacting with only two side characters and the evil dude leaving out the harem. I wasn't bored about the guardian thing but the way we don't really do much in-training guardian scenes without the harem was what left me disappointed. The crystal magic was something new and interesting but it wasn't enough to ignore other shortcomings.
The characters are very typical. The female lead who doesn't want the power, it-can't-be-me and can moulded to whatever makes her look like a perfect character the story needs. It's eye roll worthy. The harem is meh, very stereotypical feel of characters. You know how it goes, the nerdy one, the asshole, the calm bossy one. Something that's done over and over again. Opal was a cute addition. The bad dude is just unmemorable, a caricature character of the most basic evil guy you can imagine.
The book doesn't offer anything you haven't read in this genre before, it's not bad but I don't know how much exciting is it going to be reading something that's basically same cliches you have read before unless that's what you really want to read.
The plot is rather straightforward, the world building is not that explorative being limited to the Hold place so it's not much of an immersive experience when we just move to different rooms and interacting with only two side characters and the evil dude leaving out the harem. I wasn't bored about the guardian thing but the way we don't really do much in-training guardian scenes without the harem was what left me disappointed. The crystal magic was something new and interesting but it wasn't enough to ignore other shortcomings.
The characters are very typical. The female lead who doesn't want the power, it-can't-be-me and can moulded to whatever makes her look like a perfect character the story needs. It's eye roll worthy. The harem is meh, very stereotypical feel of characters. You know how it goes, the nerdy one, the asshole, the calm bossy one. Something that's done over and over again. Opal was a cute addition. The bad dude is just unmemorable, a caricature character of the most basic evil guy you can imagine.
The book doesn't offer anything you haven't read in this genre before, it's not bad but I don't know how much exciting is it going to be reading something that's basically same cliches you have read before unless that's what you really want to read.
January 17, 2019
So Not Fair
So a lot of this story is introducing characters and world building and Arthurs did a tremendously good job with that. I like that she's established who her romantic leads will be but not pushed them into Instalove, she's established attraction between them and noted what prophesies claim they'll be to each other, but the characters aren't just falling into line and saying if fate dictates it then I must be in love with this stranger I just met. As ridiculous as that sounds I've read it more times than I can count, so I appreciate that Arthurs doesn't go that route.
I like that Arthurs has established both a small conflict to be conquered in this story and a larger one to delved into over the course of the series, what I don't like and this is more a personal preference is that we get this small taste of the world and just as the big actions start to happen the book ends on am obnoxious cliffhanger.
While the book had a few typos, those were few and far between which I greatly appreciate as a reader. The cast of characters presented has been small allowing the author to make them distinctive and recognizable and the story is off to a well developed start. I can't wait to read more.
So a lot of this story is introducing characters and world building and Arthurs did a tremendously good job with that. I like that she's established who her romantic leads will be but not pushed them into Instalove, she's established attraction between them and noted what prophesies claim they'll be to each other, but the characters aren't just falling into line and saying if fate dictates it then I must be in love with this stranger I just met. As ridiculous as that sounds I've read it more times than I can count, so I appreciate that Arthurs doesn't go that route.
I like that Arthurs has established both a small conflict to be conquered in this story and a larger one to delved into over the course of the series, what I don't like and this is more a personal preference is that we get this small taste of the world and just as the big actions start to happen the book ends on am obnoxious cliffhanger.
While the book had a few typos, those were few and far between which I greatly appreciate as a reader. The cast of characters presented has been small allowing the author to make them distinctive and recognizable and the story is off to a well developed start. I can't wait to read more.
February 24, 2019
Can't wait for the next book!
This first book was a great set up to a new series. Tourmaline is thrust into a new realm after the death of her mother and paired to three men, her guardians.
The book takes place in the Hold, a castle of sorts within the Fae realm. While the book mostly takes place in the Hold, there is much information given in this first book, which is helpful in understanding the Fae realm Tori is now apart of.
I really like Tori as a leading female character. She is learning of her new heritage and coming to terms with the changes within her and around her alike. She isn't wishy-washy either. She doesn't act one way just to act completely different the next. She is a tiny bit emotional, but she did just lose her mother, I'd say it's to be expected.
This is a slow burn RH romance. While we had a hint of it in this book, there was nothing majorly heavy. I imagine that things will pick up in the next book, but we will have to wait and read to find out. I definitely recommend this book if you like a kickass lead female and a good storyline! Also the guys are pretty great to. Each has their own personality and has a different way of interacting with Tori that fits well with her. 5 out 5 forsure!
This first book was a great set up to a new series. Tourmaline is thrust into a new realm after the death of her mother and paired to three men, her guardians.
The book takes place in the Hold, a castle of sorts within the Fae realm. While the book mostly takes place in the Hold, there is much information given in this first book, which is helpful in understanding the Fae realm Tori is now apart of.
I really like Tori as a leading female character. She is learning of her new heritage and coming to terms with the changes within her and around her alike. She isn't wishy-washy either. She doesn't act one way just to act completely different the next. She is a tiny bit emotional, but she did just lose her mother, I'd say it's to be expected.
This is a slow burn RH romance. While we had a hint of it in this book, there was nothing majorly heavy. I imagine that things will pick up in the next book, but we will have to wait and read to find out. I definitely recommend this book if you like a kickass lead female and a good storyline! Also the guys are pretty great to. Each has their own personality and has a different way of interacting with Tori that fits well with her. 5 out 5 forsure!
January 31, 2019
Imagine thinking all your life that your mother is crazy only to be proven wrong upon her death? With the help of her assigned Guardians, Tourmaline or Tori must now learn the world that she is supposed to belong to and master her budding powers to avenge her mother's death.
This is the first book in the new series of the author and an excellent set up for the next installments. This book tackles more of the FMC's journey on discovering/ learning her powers while slowly building up her relationships with the men. Also, I like that the author highlights the use of crystals as weapon, other than the usual spells/ magic. I love a good female camaraderie in a book and River is the perfect balance for Tori. I hope she developed more of her power in the next book. Opal is adorable. I swear I feel a "Daenery's/ Mother of Dragons" moment whenever Opal climbs on Tori's arms or shoulder, which is kinda badass and cute at the same time. I'm betting that more of the men's backstory and the Fae's realm will be discussed on book 2. Definitely enjoyed reading this.
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is the first book in the new series of the author and an excellent set up for the next installments. This book tackles more of the FMC's journey on discovering/ learning her powers while slowly building up her relationships with the men. Also, I like that the author highlights the use of crystals as weapon, other than the usual spells/ magic. I love a good female camaraderie in a book and River is the perfect balance for Tori. I hope she developed more of her power in the next book. Opal is adorable. I swear I feel a "Daenery's/ Mother of Dragons" moment whenever Opal climbs on Tori's arms or shoulder, which is kinda badass and cute at the same time. I'm betting that more of the men's backstory and the Fae's realm will be discussed on book 2. Definitely enjoyed reading this.
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 19, 2019
Rough around the edges and in the middle
Interesting concept, rockily executed. To me this story was a fairly typical rendering of the guardians/soulmates called to heroine who saves the day/world trope. The world building is mostly sloppy exposition. The author doesn’t know who her heroine is and so she’s all the things. You know the type, most amazing, powerful, beautiful, moral, comfortable in her sexuality, accepting of people/circumstances regardless, can get over the death of her mother with nary a whimper. The guys are... let’s just say there isn’t time in the book to flesh these guys out. The plot moves, but is almost entirely narrative. The narrative gets annoying in places where the guys say A and then the heroine suddenly infers B and C, which are apropos to nothing that has come before. At one point the guys are explaining their presence and the heroine is suddenly all, “ Let’s not talk about the soulmates thing.” Which hasn’t even been mentioned. So, I give this one 2.5 stars, mostly because I was able to read it in less than 2 hours while I was working. Pretty sure this review took longer to read than the book will.
Interesting concept, rockily executed. To me this story was a fairly typical rendering of the guardians/soulmates called to heroine who saves the day/world trope. The world building is mostly sloppy exposition. The author doesn’t know who her heroine is and so she’s all the things. You know the type, most amazing, powerful, beautiful, moral, comfortable in her sexuality, accepting of people/circumstances regardless, can get over the death of her mother with nary a whimper. The guys are... let’s just say there isn’t time in the book to flesh these guys out. The plot moves, but is almost entirely narrative. The narrative gets annoying in places where the guys say A and then the heroine suddenly infers B and C, which are apropos to nothing that has come before. At one point the guys are explaining their presence and the heroine is suddenly all, “ Let’s not talk about the soulmates thing.” Which hasn’t even been mentioned. So, I give this one 2.5 stars, mostly because I was able to read it in less than 2 hours while I was working. Pretty sure this review took longer to read than the book will.
April 7, 2019
More like 2.5 stars, but had potential
This story took me forever to read, because it just wasn't compelling or captivating. Quinn Arthurs is one of my favorite authors, so this is difficult to write a negative review. While the concept of this fantasy had so kuch potential, it was just poorly executed. The FMC was just downright awful and annoying. She was childish and brash and at all the wrong points. There wasn't enough time in the book to develop the guys at all so I did not even feel much of a connection. The dialogue was forced and unrealistic with so many redundant statements. (How many times do you have to say...she was fits in and sounds just like us). Also where was the attraction? They just randomly kissed her and it had to be shallow attraction like looks, because she personality was just bland. I bumped up the stars from 2 to 3, primarily because the action, fantasy concept, the latter quarter of the book, and River (nice beginning of a supporting character). Also Quinn is a great author and I have enjoyed all of her other books, sadly I can't say I will keep reading this series.
This story took me forever to read, because it just wasn't compelling or captivating. Quinn Arthurs is one of my favorite authors, so this is difficult to write a negative review. While the concept of this fantasy had so kuch potential, it was just poorly executed. The FMC was just downright awful and annoying. She was childish and brash and at all the wrong points. There wasn't enough time in the book to develop the guys at all so I did not even feel much of a connection. The dialogue was forced and unrealistic with so many redundant statements. (How many times do you have to say...she was fits in and sounds just like us). Also where was the attraction? They just randomly kissed her and it had to be shallow attraction like looks, because she personality was just bland. I bumped up the stars from 2 to 3, primarily because the action, fantasy concept, the latter quarter of the book, and River (nice beginning of a supporting character). Also Quinn is a great author and I have enjoyed all of her other books, sadly I can't say I will keep reading this series.
January 15, 2019
Tourmaline(aka Tori) starts the book off with a devastating scene. From there she is thrust into an unknown and weird adventure with people she doesn't know and enemies she's never known she had.
When I first began the book, honestly, Tori grated my nerves a bit. As the book carried on, she began to grow on me and her character began to become someone I liked more and more. The guys are all interesting, although I don't feel as though I know them that well. I am hoping for more in depth background on each in book two though. Tori's new friends are fun. I enjoyed both Opal and River's characters.
The world building is interesting. I think as the series goes on it will become more complex as we learn along with Tori.
To me, this book read as a set up book. It set up Tori's introduction to the world of magic and Guardians. It showed us some of her powers and how things worked in their world. Even as a set up, it was still quite interesting and I look forward to book two.
Overall I would recommend this book.
When I first began the book, honestly, Tori grated my nerves a bit. As the book carried on, she began to grow on me and her character began to become someone I liked more and more. The guys are all interesting, although I don't feel as though I know them that well. I am hoping for more in depth background on each in book two though. Tori's new friends are fun. I enjoyed both Opal and River's characters.
The world building is interesting. I think as the series goes on it will become more complex as we learn along with Tori.
To me, this book read as a set up book. It set up Tori's introduction to the world of magic and Guardians. It showed us some of her powers and how things worked in their world. Even as a set up, it was still quite interesting and I look forward to book two.
Overall I would recommend this book.
January 15, 2019
This books is one of the best I’ve read in a while. I love how Tori is simply badass, it’s nice to see her facing challenge after challenge and surpassing expectations. I love how she’s so fiercely protective and caring. She’s badass, yes, but she’s also kind. She thinks outside the box and that forces the guys to do so, as well.
As for the guys... I mean. Let’s face it. Reed is just <3
I want one of those. Her relationship with Onyx is hilarious. Terran is the leader. They’re all amazing in their own rights. And there’s also her relationship with River. Everyone should have a best friend like Tori.
This book brings different approaches to magic and it’s pretty interesting to learn new things at the same time Tori is learning. I cannot wait to get more answers and to see where this is going.
As for the guys... I mean. Let’s face it. Reed is just <3
I want one of those. Her relationship with Onyx is hilarious. Terran is the leader. They’re all amazing in their own rights. And there’s also her relationship with River. Everyone should have a best friend like Tori.
This book brings different approaches to magic and it’s pretty interesting to learn new things at the same time Tori is learning. I cannot wait to get more answers and to see where this is going.
January 16, 2019
I really recommend reading this book.
Tourmaline’s (Tori’s) story begins when her mother dies, whilst performing her mothers last rights she calls 3 guardians to her side. The story moves quickly from that point on and she is thrust into a world fulled with magic and danger.
The world building of this book is incredible and easy to follow unlike a lot of fae novels. The action is fast paced and the characters are relatable and have hidden depths. I must admit that to begin with Tori was a little annoying as she clung to past and seemed to be wilfully rebuffing anything that she didn’t wish to accept. No matter the evidence. You come to understand her and like her a lot more once she begins to work with her guardians instead of against them.
I really cannot wait to read more about her crystal and fae magic and to see the relationship develop between her and her guardians.
Tourmaline’s (Tori’s) story begins when her mother dies, whilst performing her mothers last rights she calls 3 guardians to her side. The story moves quickly from that point on and she is thrust into a world fulled with magic and danger.
The world building of this book is incredible and easy to follow unlike a lot of fae novels. The action is fast paced and the characters are relatable and have hidden depths. I must admit that to begin with Tori was a little annoying as she clung to past and seemed to be wilfully rebuffing anything that she didn’t wish to accept. No matter the evidence. You come to understand her and like her a lot more once she begins to work with her guardians instead of against them.
I really cannot wait to read more about her crystal and fae magic and to see the relationship develop between her and her guardians.
February 2, 2019
Mostly on the fence still. Since it’s on KU I’ll probably keep reading the series.
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
May 29, 2020
What a great start to a series! Tori’s life has turned upside down in hours and she’s got some adjustments to make. Reed and Terran are trying to help her with the adjustment while wrapping their minds around some truths. Onyx needs a good punch in the throat, but hey, what’s a girl to do.
The Guardian starts strong and stays that way. It’s a great read on the fae and their world with a very different take. No Tinkerbells here, exactly. Quinn Arthur’s has done a great job pulling readers in and building a unique world. I love strong females who don’t lose their assertiveness and drive to survive by any means necessary just because guys show up. Tori is just that girl. I need her to take some deep breaths and start trying to trust her team, but it will come. Now to go find book two because that cliffhanger ending was nutso!!
The Guardian starts strong and stays that way. It’s a great read on the fae and their world with a very different take. No Tinkerbells here, exactly. Quinn Arthur’s has done a great job pulling readers in and building a unique world. I love strong females who don’t lose their assertiveness and drive to survive by any means necessary just because guys show up. Tori is just that girl. I need her to take some deep breaths and start trying to trust her team, but it will come. Now to go find book two because that cliffhanger ending was nutso!!
January 16, 2019
Dnf
Did not attempt to finish, I was about 14% percent into this read and was beyond annoyed, all these characters are annoying, the main chick, ANNOYING! The storyline, poorly executed. Lots of freaking out, yelling, crap talking, I wasn't very impressed with these ppl. I just got off this sinking boat while I still had the chance. This book was a train wreck just waiting for me to throw my kindle at the wall and rage at the thought of falling into another horrible story with no end in site. Honestly I'm just really getting tired of this always happening. I get real tired of trolls doing the one star to down a good book, but even more livid when they give 5 stars to garbage
Did not attempt to finish, I was about 14% percent into this read and was beyond annoyed, all these characters are annoying, the main chick, ANNOYING! The storyline, poorly executed. Lots of freaking out, yelling, crap talking, I wasn't very impressed with these ppl. I just got off this sinking boat while I still had the chance. This book was a train wreck just waiting for me to throw my kindle at the wall and rage at the thought of falling into another horrible story with no end in site. Honestly I'm just really getting tired of this always happening. I get real tired of trolls doing the one star to down a good book, but even more livid when they give 5 stars to garbage
January 15, 2019
No spoilers of any kind included!
I thought this book was amazing!
It hooked me from the first chapter and I stayed hooked until the very end of the story.
And that’s all I’m going to say about this book because if I say anymore I’ll be giving away spoilers and I really dislike doing that!
Quinn Arthurs is fast becoming a favorite author with her amazing story weaving, so much that I really look forward to reading more of her books.
So it’s going to be a big HECK YEAH I most definitely do recommend this book because I thought it was totally fantastic and I guarantee everyone else will too.
January 20, 2019
Cliffhanger endinggggg.
This book was meh. It wasn't bad; I appreciated that the heroine stuck to her guns for the most part and wasn't some silly "woe is me, a man come save me" character. The heroes didn't seem like complete alpha trolls, which was also nice.
There were a lot of typos while I was reading, which is something that bothers me. At one point, a character's name was completely wrong. Birch was written as "Blaine." Uh, wha?
So ultimately this book is not one I'm going to grab for again and again, but also not one I'd refuse to reread. I may read the second in the series whenever it is out, but I'm not pining for it.
This book was meh. It wasn't bad; I appreciated that the heroine stuck to her guns for the most part and wasn't some silly "woe is me, a man come save me" character. The heroes didn't seem like complete alpha trolls, which was also nice.
There were a lot of typos while I was reading, which is something that bothers me. At one point, a character's name was completely wrong. Birch was written as "Blaine." Uh, wha?
So ultimately this book is not one I'm going to grab for again and again, but also not one I'd refuse to reread. I may read the second in the series whenever it is out, but I'm not pining for it.
February 26, 2019
A good read
I love Tori she is a complete bad ass who doesn't take crap from no one. After being dragged away to a different realm and being told she's part of some ancient prophecy and that she's got powers that she's never used before she's not all to sure what the heck is going on but that she has to harness those new powers to help keep herself and her new friends safe.. The chemistry between each character and Tori is amazing gives you just enough interaction between the characters it's almost a tease. I was very pleased with the story line after I got a few chapters in. Excellent job will be look out for the next installment of this series!
I love Tori she is a complete bad ass who doesn't take crap from no one. After being dragged away to a different realm and being told she's part of some ancient prophecy and that she's got powers that she's never used before she's not all to sure what the heck is going on but that she has to harness those new powers to help keep herself and her new friends safe.. The chemistry between each character and Tori is amazing gives you just enough interaction between the characters it's almost a tease. I was very pleased with the story line after I got a few chapters in. Excellent job will be look out for the next installment of this series!
January 14, 2019
LOVED this!!! OMG these characters are fantastic, the magic is amazing and original, the storyline is even more original, the writing, pace and world building are all perfectly done. I’m so excited about this series and cannot wait to get my eyes on book two, especially after that cliffhanger ending!! Also....baby dragon. That is all. If those two words don’t convince you to read this book, then we should not be friends. 😆 But honestly this was a fantastic read, Quinn Arthurs has me sucked into the story from the very start and Onyx kept me there until the very end 😉
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