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Mazza #1

Marks of the Mazza

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I was just minding my own business, trying to win in life (while in reality just barely passing) when I discovered the existence of a secret race, who think I’m the answer to their prayers.

The Mazza, they called me. Someone who bears the marks of all four houses of this mysterious people, holding untold powers. Every time a Mazza has appeared in their history it has signaled great change. Change they so desperately need when they are on the brink of war.

Their savior. Their Messiah.

More like scale tipper for whatever side holds the Mazza. I just wish I knew what this war is about and who the players are. Everyone is out to get me, manipulate me, own me.

Navigating the minefield I just stumbled into could very well cost me my life. Good thing I stumbled into a mistaken Uber full of men of said race who I can trust to help me navigate my new normal. Or can I?

MARKS OF THE MAZZA is a full-length 70,000 word paranormal, reverse harem romance. Book one in the Mazza Series.

272 pages, Paperback

First published September 27, 2018

580 people are currently reading
634 people want to read

About the author

Blake Blessing

38 books479 followers
Blake Blessing is just a working mom that loves art in all forms, and all genres of romance. Although she enjoys writing romance of the steamier variety.

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5 stars
243 (32%)
4 stars
246 (33%)
3 stars
157 (21%)
2 stars
60 (8%)
1 star
34 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
Profile Image for Ada.
455 reviews46 followers
April 13, 2019
Listen, I will be the first to admit the romance sub-genres have some dodgy assholes as heroes with their creepy and highhanded behaviour called romantic and someday things may change but till then we just have to cringe through it and draw our individual lines to what's tolerable. Marks of the Mazza falls way beyond that line and I just couldn't find anything that even remotely tried to redeem the guys.

There is just one downfall after another when it comes to the harem. It starts with the kidnapping which they never think was wrong and always have a patronising explanation for it. Then it's the non consensual bonding that takes place which absolutely killed Nato's character for me, I just couldn't bear him after that. Worse thing is how Isolde doesn't react much other than a few pissy lines in one scene, that's it. Nato doesn't find what he did as wrong, again he has that same patronising bullshit explaining dialogues. Then there is this hypocrisy of them being better than other faes who are gaga over Isolde. You guys literally kidnapped her and strip searched her while she was unconscious and y'all are supposed to be the sane ones?! Ugh.

The plot relies heavily on the whole bondmates thing, I love me some soulmate-forever-love kind of thing but this book doesn't do it well. It's lacking in execution and awkward at times making it seem like it's trying to get through a checklist. I never felt like I was immersed in a Fae world. I couldn't relate with Isolde's character with her awful reactions and then the stifled forced interactions with the guys that is supposed to be "romance". Just no.
Profile Image for Soph .
246 reviews39 followers
December 27, 2018
Ok just started a new book and I’m only a few pages in to be fair but ... already the “harem” has knocked the MC unconscious kidnapped her stripped her to “check for secret marks” and now refusing to let her go back to her normal life. And also she only gets her “powers” till she bonds with another. They are just kissing her like they own her and the MC is just going along with it... yep by this point DNF ! So far the MC isn’t reacting like a normal person would- kicking and flipping screaming and assault of it all.... MC having S*X to power up. Think I’m going to start a book shelf of this trope just for shits and giggles.
This book got rave reviews but nope I don’t have time for this bullshirt soz fam.
Profile Image for Rhema P __(:з」∠)__.
242 reviews9 followers
May 20, 2020
Dnf 13%

Ridiculous. When strange men try to grope you: RUN (or aim low). You should not, under any circumstance think it’s fine that they drugged you, took off your clothes and then spout magical drivel (without proof).
I blame twilight for this.

Profile Image for Toubob.
432 reviews10 followers
December 17, 2023
The start of this book is rough, its bad. I almost DNF'd so many times. The book greatly improves in the last half of the book and book 2 and 3.

The ways the author introduced and brought together the main characters used some truly questionable things, things that were borderline dub-con or were huge red flags. There were so many things wrong with the first part of the book. The h seems happy to just move in and on with the 4 guys.

The meeting of the characters was done in such a quick, fast way that it had really sketchy behavior and choices.

If you manage to overcome the first part of the book and forget those sketchy things the men in her harem did the rest of the book brings up some interesting things that continue in book 2 and 3. I found book 2 and 3 to have some really interesting things happen and the plot had some interesting twists.
Profile Image for Angela.
8,013 reviews117 followers
September 20, 2018
5 Stars

Marks of the Mazza is the first book in the Mazza Series, and incredible debut by Blake Blessing. It is a brilliant fantasy with a paranormal/reverse harem/polyamorous romance. There is also lots of action, adventure, danger, drama, suspense, and mystery. Here’s where I will come clean and admit that I usually avoid harem/reverse harem books as they aren’t really ‘my-cup-of-tea. But having said that, this book is certainly an exception to that rule…. the story has really won me over. It was the beautiful cover and the promise of an epic story that really convinced me to read the book. What I found when I opened the book is an exceptionally well written story that had me engrossed within minutes- so to then find that it’s also the author’s debut novel, just blew me away.
The characters are not just fully realised individuals with their own personalities, but they are also incredibly interesting and endearing as well. I was very quickly and easily invested in them and the outcome of their story. There was a lot going on in the book, but Ms. Blessing choreographed everything into a smooth and captivating read.
Isolde Bardot’s world as she knows it turns upside down from the moment she stumbles into the wrong ’Uber’. She discovers a whole world she never knew existed and that she has an incredible part to play in that ‘world’. The responsibility is somewhat daunting, as is the thought that she now has a Lusty Legion of men to bond with. It’s a confusing and dangerous time for her. For one, it doesn’t feel ‘normal’ to take more than one partner long-term. Then finding out magic is real and there are different realms too, has boggled her mind. But, there are plots afoot that have targeted Issy and her safety in these schemes isn’t guaranteed. So, she’s left questioning it all and feeling the weight of responsibility thrust upon her.
I LOVED this book- from the gorgeous cover to the wonderfully exciting story and the fantastic characters- all showcasing the dynamic writing and incredible imagination of Ms. Blessing.
OMG book two can’t come quick enough for my liking! I need it NOW!! I absolutely can’t wait!
Highly Recommended Reading!!!

Kudos! and thank you, Ms. Blessing!
Profile Image for Rambling Reader.
461 reviews72 followers
December 28, 2018
Isolde has lived a pretty simple life, a pretty monotonous one. She goes to work, her apartment, and there's not much adventure in between. Since her family died when she was very young, she was a product of an imperfect foster system.

Everything changes when she's suddenly "drugged" and kidnapped by four strangers who seem way too invested in her to be anything ordinary.

Isolde, or Iss/Issy, is likable enough, but her wishy-washy attitude kind of irritated me. At first she seems to get too comfortable with her kidnappers, way too quickly. Once she regains some of her common sense, and decides to take things slow, I thought there was some hope for her! Instead...she seems to go back to her instantly-trusting ways fast enough to give me whiplash. If you want more relationship development before your MC commits, this is not the series for you.

As for the men, there are four that seem likely to be Issy's bonded mates, and a fifth who's quite the intriguing man in the background. Each of them have enough of a backstory/personality to distinguish from one another, but we don't get a super deep dig into their lives just yet. For now, Blessing gives away enough tidbits that you can tell her men apart and start the processing of picking your favorite(s).

Overall, Marks of the Mazza was interesting, but I don't know that I'd call it a "stand-out" from my 2018 reading adventures. There's some steam, a decent start to worldbuilding, and teases of a conflict that we only get the tip of. I'll definitely check out book two if it's also released on KU.
1,084 reviews
May 10, 2020
Kidnapped victim falls for captor

If you’re kidnapped and held captive hut your special it makes it ok to fall into bed with a harem. If you’re tricked into sex that bonds you for life it’s ok to forgive because you know from romance books that forgiveness is important to healthy relationships. Argh. Stay away.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews122 followers
Want to read
March 16, 2020
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/16/2020)! 🎁
Profile Image for Tab.
204 reviews2 followers
June 30, 2020
Rubbish, DNF

It started off ridiculous, then took a left into dumbville, continued on into stupidity and I couldn't take it any more around the 60% mark. Just no. Blind following, plot in your face with stupid scenes that had zero tact. I skimmed a tad because the storyline couldn't hold me when I realized how cut and dry it was. I threw in the towel when the internal thoughts of Isolde said: get information, so she asked a question, and then the kidnappers said: we won't be giving you any useful information. Like... uhhh... that's dumb. The whole story is like that. Searching for purpose, then the guys show up and ask her if she felt purposeless type stuff. Q's and A's with a shared brain between characters. That is not good writing.
Profile Image for E.A..
951 reviews27 followers
September 19, 2018
Marks of the Mazza by Blake Blessing is a reverse harem read that, strangely caught my eye, not with the RH but with the actual plot line.

This was my first read by this author, and since I'm not into RH that much anymore, I choose them wisely. I have to say, this was one of my better picks and, it captured me enough to continue with the story.

I have to say, despite me tiny animosity agents RH, I was quickly drawn into this story. The plot, that gets our MC mixed up with all these sexy men, is quite unique, not so much original, cause the lost, whatever, has been done. But I like the take of this lost being coming into their own, and being the linchpin this world story.

As for our MC, she was okay, had a good head on her shoulder, and is just trying to get through life like the rest of us. I like how she wasn't a whiny, "innocent" virgin like character. She was a woman, knew about life, that men are a thing, and so is sex. Sorry I had to put that in, I'm been reading too many book with the "innocent" MC trope, and this was refreshing. Overall she was a very real character and it work very well with the situation she was tossed into.

As for the guys, as far as RH goes, they weren't bad. Sure some fell into the normal RH tropes, but for me I felt they all had different voices, styles and I could easily tell them apart when the convo started flowing. I do hope no more are added, I don't like the big, over like seven men in the RH, cause then things are weird, tend to muddled and cluttered.

Overall this RH is a great read. The writing was easy to follow, it has a good rhythm that kept you reading and kept the tone on track. The detail had a good mix of showing and telling, drawing you into the story and keeping your mind engaged. The plot made sense, and had good backstory and world building. I give this book my high recommendation and my stamp of approval.

Happy Reading

-E.A. Walsh.
Profile Image for Mariana.
221 reviews10 followers
September 25, 2022
Is the first book in the Mazza Series by Blake Blessing
Is a fast burn,paranormal RH

MY RATING: on Goodreads 4 stars personal 4.5 Stars

Blurb: I was just minding my own business, trying to
win in life (while in reality just barely passing) when I
discovered the existence of a secret race, who think I’m
the answer to their prayers.
The Mazza, they called me. Someone who bears the
marks of all four houses of this mysterious people,
holding untold powers. Every time a Mazza has
appeared in their history it has signaled great change.
Change they so desperately need when they are on the
brink of war.
Their savior. Their Messiah.
More like scale tipper for whatever side holds the
Mazza. I just wish I knew what this war is about and
who the players are. Everyone is out to get me,
manipulate me, own me.
Navigating the minefield I just stumbled into could very
well cost me my life. Good thing I stumbled into a
mistaken Uber full of men of said race who I can trust
to help me navigate my new normal. Or can I?

_
So i'm so addicted to this series i'm continue reading
after reading some arcs i have to read and review
Is a humourus book i love that kind of vibes on it
Is a steamy book those are my favorite to read
I love all the characters but Isolde got my heart more
than the Boys
I don't want to say to much and give spoilers but i
recommend this book
Profile Image for Tasha.
22 reviews12 followers
August 30, 2018
Wonderful first book from a new author. This book keeps you interested from beginning to end, with great characters and an exciting story line. I'm looking forward to the release of the second book in this series.
Profile Image for Maura.
2,171 reviews6 followers
September 28, 2018
This is the first I've read by this author. MARKS OF THE MAZZA is book 1 in a new series. This book sets up future stories generally well. The characters are well described and we know everyone's role in the story.

If you aren't familiar with "Reverse Harem" it is when one woman is taken care of by multiple men. It is explained that while this isn't a poly relationship, there won't be any jealousy because the friends already love each other and want the best for each other.

There is a bit of suspense, humor, sexy times and a decent basis for a story. My ONLY complaint is that if the protagonist is so "woke" I would think she would have some resistance to her new station in life. It was just a little something that bugged me.

I will be reading future installments of this series.
Profile Image for Blendy.
429 reviews111 followers
September 11, 2018
Well, that was interesting.

RH (Reverse Harem) books have been my addiction lately. It's making it extremely hard to get into any other type of book because inevitably I find myself wanting the H in all of my reads to end up with every single male character that catches my eye, and I get grumpy AF when that doesn't happen. I'm am so down with #whychoose right now.

With that being said though, it doesn't mean that I still don't want a well-crafted story with interesting characters, an interesting plot, and developed dialogue. Unfortunately, not many of the RH series I have come across have been able to deliver that. Actually, a lot of the RH series that I have come across are very juvenile in execution and content (surprising considering the actual intent behind RH), have disgusting insta-love, and/or they are very short in length. ARRGGGGHHHHH. Marks of the Mazza, however, managed to give me a lot of what I like and was more than 200 pages! SCORE!

Our H in the story is actually above the age of 17 or 18 (finally found one, thank fuck) and her harem, while kind of insta-lovey, is not completely realized by the end of the book. I wouldn’t say this is slow-burn, per se, but there is some trepidation between the H and some could-be harem members. I honestly don’t like a reverse harem that involves too many members (five members is normally my max), and this one—depending on where the author takes it—has the potential to exceed that max, but, surprisingly, I’m okay with that in this instance. Why? Because I found myself really interested in the characters and possible story trajectory.

Who are the main players?

There is the H, Isolde or “Issy”, and she is a likeable character. She isn’t as bad-ass as I typically like my H’s, but she is a far cry from the little virgin little-miss-innocent or massively abused and soul crushed H’s that seem to dominate in this genre. She’s a little blah and boring sometimes, but I much prefer that to fucktwits that are constantly doing stupid shit. Seriously, I cannot stand a weak or stupidly naïve character. Also, I CANNOT.FUCKING.STAND when an author makes his or her characters blush all the damn time, and while there is some blushing in this book—enough that I noticed it--, it wasn’t enough to make me want to rip my hair out. So there’s that.

Okay, as for the “guys” in this book, there is Donato (who thankfully goes by "Nato"), Sage, Egan, and Jari (I don't know how it's supposed to be pronounced, but I was saying it like "Jar-ee" in my head because "Jerry" just didn't seem like a cool Fae name to me). These guys are set-up to kind of outline the potential harem, and they are interesting guys. Childhood friends, they consider themselves brothers, and they make it clear that they have no problems sharing one girl between the four of them. BUT, not all of them are on-board with Issy being that girl. Also, there are other characters, such as Rand and Yunez, who steal a little of the spotlight too. On more than one occasion I found myself smiling and side-eyeing the fuck outta them. Thus far, this series has had only exhibited a m/f sexual theme...no m/m or m/m/f action in sight. So, if that kind of stuff bothers you, then you don't need to worry on that front. On the other-hand, if you like that kind of stuff...well...let's just keep our fingers crossed. ;)

As I said, the harem is not fully realized by the end of this book, but we are given some sexy-times and a few of the members are firmly chosen by the end. So, no “blue ovaries” here ladies! Woot-woot! All in all, I’m interested to see where this story line is going, and I’m looking forward to book two.


Profile Image for Shamika Moore.
7 reviews12 followers
January 1, 2019
Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem (Mazza Series Book 1)

Isolde is trying to survive her job, adult life and find her purpose. Then she is quickly thrust in a new world with men who say that she is a Mazza, that they are soldiers and she will save them from a war. Adventure, mystery, fantasy, paranormal, sexy times, and action awaits.

The fantasy elements have their own twists; So although the fae are the closest myths to be tied to the Fennin people, it is a brand new tale. The author surprised me, I really couldn’t guess the ending.The story pulls you in wondering how Isolde will fair esp with the war being a heavy factor. Not only does she have to figure out why it was started but also her role in it and how long the plan has been in motion.

I’m a fan of the Reverse Harem genre, and I liked how the concept was introduced in this first book of the series . It is a very normal part of their society and this new world. So while the men are getting Isolde up to date on prophecies and legends; she also has to acclimate her feelings for these new men and the fact that she doesn’t want to choose.

The author’s voice and writing style are unique and fresh. It feels like the characters and I are already friends. The main character’s inner dialogue and her humor really shine through. The story has high action and fast sequences but the character development is natural. The MC really shows a gauntlet of emotions trying to figure everything out. There are a few events that are dark and gritty with the paranormal nature of the book. This book will definitely have you reeling and I’m excited for what the next one has in store.
Profile Image for Laura Furuta.
2,047 reviews28 followers
September 19, 2018
Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem (Mazza Series Book 1)
By: Blake Blessing
5 out of 5 stars

The story Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem (Mazza Series Book 1) by Blake Blessing is a paranormal romance book. It is a story that quickly grabbed my attention and I found that I didn’t want to put the book down until I had finished the last page. It is a story that does a wonderful job in world building and had me wanting to know more about the secret race that is described. This secret race has one they call the Mazza. This one is an important player in their society and many wish to call the Mazza theirs. Every time the Mazza appears it has signaled great change. The Mazza has been found again. She is strong, compassionate, caring, and brave. She is one to use her gut feelings when trying to make a decision or course of action. There seems to be a connection between the Mazza and the men that have found her. When together the feelings/emotions are strong between them. These men are protective of her and will help her navigate the new world in which she now lives. How close will they all become? The Mazza is learning who all the players in this world are. Who can the Mazza truly trust? Read this book to find out. There are times when I wasn’t sure as to what side some of the characters are on and found myself trying to figure out their motives. This is a wonderfully written story and a great start to a series. I find that I am intrigued as to where the series is headed next and look forward to reading the next story.
Profile Image for Bubbles The Book Pimp.
955 reviews
September 30, 2018
First in series and first read by this author.

Living a pretty non descriptive life, Isolde, lacks direction..struggling woth two jobs and no family...she wants and craves purpose. After accidently getting into 3 strangers car she is absolutely shocked when they return the next day...and kidnap her!!! Because she is a mazza.. a fae being a fennin...who only appears in times of great crisis..using the powers of her bonded mates to protect. But others want the mazza and until she decides her mates she is at risk.

WOOOO HOOO I love me some reverse harem... I love reverse Harem that features heroines that are older than 17/18...that aren’t sex kitten/Virgins ( nothing personal to the virgins in the world! ) and who don’t kill me with the ultra ultra slow death that is an EXTENDED slow burn..that seem to be all the hype of everyone’s current genre craze!

This book is fastpaced, funny and feisty and fuelled by the Lust Legion! With an original twist featuring the fae who are able to cross back and forth into this realm.

Aka N, J, E and Sulkface sage... featuring other sexy dudes... R and Yunez ( sue me I love an older man 🤣🤣🤣) making up the potential mates and ‘blood’ brothers the guys whisk her away from her dull boring life and give her a whole lotta purpose and direction.

For a first release by a new author this is a bloody outstanding read and I cannot wait for more!
I’m loving the direction that this book is heading and cannot wait to see how the original story develops and grows.
Profile Image for Candida Furbush.
827 reviews11 followers
October 10, 2018
Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem (Mazza Series Book 1)
By Blake Blessing
I will admit this is the first reverse harem book I have read and I am so glad I decided to go with it. I love the diversity in all the characters involved. This book drew me in from the beginning and kept me captivated throughout. Isolde was just getting by, working two part time jobs and going through the routine of life as a loner. That all changes the night she accidentally gets into the wrong vehicle that she thought was her uber. She is suddenly thrust into a world of magic and she's told she is the “Mazza” which is the answer to the Fennine/fae, they believe she can bring great change. As Issy is trying to wrap her mind around this huge responsibility and learn their ways, there are also people trying to hurt her. I found while I was reading I was being taken on many different directions, I wasn't sure who is good, Who is bad? Which is awesome!! Just when you think you might have a grasp there's a twist in the plot and I found myself rethinking what I thought I knew. I loved the different angles and how bits and pieces of information were revealed. I found myself invested in these characters, I so badly want the lusty legion to be the good guys!! I absolutely loved reading this book, i just couldn't put it down, and now I'm going crazy waiting to read the next one!!! The author did an exceptional job creating a wonderfully well written story that captured my attention!! I highly recommend this book!!
Profile Image for Erin Davidson.
73 reviews
October 12, 2018
Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem is the first book in Blake Blessing’s Mazza series. Isolde – like all of us – was just waiting for an Uber when destiny came knocking. After getting in the wrong car, Isolde discovers the world of the Fennin, an ancient fae like race, with incredible powers, that are on the brink of war. Isolde is a prophesied Mazza, a powerful supernatural, who has the ability to unite all the houses and bring unity to the Fennin. After being abducted by four insanely hot Fennin, Isolde must navigate their treacherous world, and decide on which side of the fence she sits, as she has the power to tip the scales.
I really loved the concept and story for Marks of the Mazza. I thought it was very creative and engaging. Blessing does incredible job of reeling the reader in and keep them in just enough suspense, so that they never want to put the book down. Isolde as a main character was fearless, and sassy; she also had a very distinct voice as a narrator. The voice wasn’t one that I could get my head around and enjoy, I found her to be to over explaining as a narrator, and it would disrupt the flow of the story. But that’s really the only thing I can fault from the book, and it’s just a personal preference. What I might not like, you might love. One thing I loved more than anything was the chapter title art, it’s beautiful watercolour, and you’ll have to get the book to see it. As it is stunning, and I’m a sucker for art in books.
I enjoyed this first book of the series and look forward to reading the next. 3/5 stars.
Profile Image for Cassandra.
750 reviews
September 3, 2025
I was so ready to give this 2 stars. It managed to pick up near the end, so it earned .5 back, but my issues with this book are many.

I am at 41% into the book so far, and I am struggling. This girl is so stupid! These guys tell her some fantastical story about Fae, and she just accepts it all as fact immediately. This is not even slightly realistic or believable.
She gets kidnapped, and she is just OK with it and goes along.
Then she has sex, that same day, with one of the guys and was bonded for life without her knowledge, and she just goes along with it again.
She is told she can't go back to her apartment/job/life, and she just goes along with that, too.
After one day, she is told she has to bond with 4 guys and she instantly starts meeting new people. Why doesn't she question anything?

Then, there is the connection with the guys. They kidnap her and the next day she is OK with it and has sex with one of them. She immediately wants to sleep with all of them. One even breaks up with his childhood sweetheart, and she just goes along with it. This is after he has behaved like he hates her for a day and a half.
I'm not feeling any connection between anyone, other than she wants to sleep with them, and I am supposed to believe that they all want her for life after less than a day? I already really dislike insta-love, but this is even worse because it just feels like nothing is there.

I was getting so bored, too, but things picked up near the end. I hope they next one is better. Seriously better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Michelle Austin.
2,830 reviews44 followers
October 12, 2018
Marks of the Mazza was an interesting 4 star read and book one of the Mazza series.
This is my first read by Blake Blessing and her debut as well. This is an interesting new twist to paranormal romance/Reverse Harem and my first time reading this genre.

After closing up for the night at her job, Isolde ends up getting into a car that she thought was her Uber, there are very handsome men in the car. She ends up seeing the men again and there is an attraction that she is feeling. After a toe curling kiss she finds herself waking up in a whole new world where she is staying with Donato, Sage, Egan and Jari.

These men have been friends since childhood and have made an agreement amongst them, to mate with a Mazza, when they find her to get their full powers to help in the war. We discover that Sage may have a little glitch in his commitment, will he follow through with mating? There are definitely plenty of other’s very interested in taking his place, good and bad.

There are additional characters introduced and they all added a great element to the story. I was pulled right in and really enjoyed this story.There is so much going on and we do get some hot mating scenes as well. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was coming next. We did end with a cliff hanger and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for D.
176 reviews15 followers
December 12, 2018
Blake nailed it with this book. I love the concept of paranormal characters with a polygamous relationship. The storyline is intriguing, funny, and well thought-out; though it leaves room for book 2 (which I am can’t wait to read). Blake does a wonderful job of developing the characters and ensuring that it is not instalove. The book has action, danger, steamy scenes, moments of hilarity and acts of mystery. Isolde is a hoot, I do like that fact that she makes them work to be apart of her bonded group. I like that she easily slips into the different roles that is thrusted upon her and I like her go with the flow attitude. Isolde is not a whining MC which is critical for books with action involved in this story.

I enjoyed reading about the back history if the guys and their relationship. I enjoyed the variety of personality that is in Isolde’s LL (harem). The introduction to the guys was different and I am not sure who I favor quite yet, the take charge and ask for forgiveness is Nato, the standoffish jerk Sage (might be him), the fun loving Jari, Egan who is the quiet spirit. The men have a nice balance, and interesting connection between them, there are side characters that I have found hilarious or mysterious such as the Yunez and Mehki. The story has a few unexcepted aspects but that just opens the door for answers in future books!
This is another recommend from me 😊
3,074 reviews33 followers
September 25, 2018
Marks Of The Mazza: Reverse Harem by Blake Blessing is the first book in the Mazza Series. A strong story and a great take on a reverse Harem.
Isolde couldn’t be any more normal if she tried. A regular person just trying to get through each day. That is until she finds herself thrown into a world she never knew existed.
Identified as the Mazza she is very rare and highly coveted, by both sides of a burgeoning war.
And as if that wasn’t crazy enough she has four utterly gorgeous men, all of whom she is expected to mate with. Rather than fighting what she is told, Isolde does the only thing she can; she embraces her new life wholeheartedly.

This was a new author to me so I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book. I can honestly say that I enjoyed every second of it. The story was interesting and never faltered. It kept pace well and didn’t rely on the shock factor of it being RH. The characters each had their own identities as well. It is very easy in a RH book to find at least one of the characters being overshadowed by the rest. But with this book I felt that they each got a voice and their personalities shone through. I felt this was a strong start to the series and I am excited to see what comes next.
Profile Image for Liz.
1,327 reviews19 followers
October 10, 2018
This is going to be one of those series that will get me in trouble. Firstly, I must say I was blown away that this is Blake Blessing’s debut novel. Girl has some writing skills! I am an avid fan of reading alternate lifestyle romances because usually they are intricate stories with layers that you just don’t find in a one on one relationship storyline. That said, this is also a difficult thing to write and can make or break an entire story or series. This was absolutely not the case here! This was flawless, emotional, and gripping. There was just the right amount of slow burn romance between the parties involved with the bonus additions of paranormal twists to keep you extra intrigued.

Isolde Bardot is not your average naiveté lead female. She can hold her own, and really she needs to because when she gets into the wrong Uber she will have to handle a whole new world and all its complexities. There is never a dull moment for her between her ‘Lusty Legion’, confusing and realistic magic, and different realms? I was so bummed when the book ended, not a killer cliffhanger, but enough I will be anxiously on the edge of my seat awaiting the next in the series now! Thanks for such an amazing adventure Blake Blessing!
Profile Image for Jana.
876 reviews
October 13, 2018
Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem’book is the first isntallment in Blake Blessing’s The Mazza Series and what a beginning it is! It is her debut book and she knocked it out of the park! I cannot wait for the next instalment as she left us hanging … well, that is the meaning with a series, right?
In this first book we are introduced to Isolde – the Mazza – someone who bears the marks of all four houses of this mysterious people and supposedly holds untold powers. Their appearance signals great change and they are supposed to a saviour … the thing is though that Isobel thinks she is completely boringly normal and she has no idea who those people are and what the different players in those different houses are …
What do you do when you end up in a wrong ‘Uber” with a bunch of sexy guys aka our Fae guys, each of them from one of the four houses and the beginning of Issy’s harem. Depending how the writer spins her story … there might be quite a few of them. In the first book we are introduced to Donato “Nato”, Sage, Egan, Jari and Rand …
It is funny how I started thinking of Laurell K Hamilton’s Meredith Gentry series and maybe that explains why I loved the Marks of the Mazza so much! Well done Ms Blessing! You are in good company!
Profile Image for Erin.
714 reviews2 followers
October 12, 2018
I give Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem (Mazza Series Book 1) by Blake Blessing, 4 stars.

Isolde lives a normal, if somewhat boring, life. That all changed the moment she gets into the wrong car with some men she has never seen before. They say they are another race and she is the one they have been waiting for. That she bears the marks of the four houses of these mysterious beings. And to make things even more interesting, she is supposed to mate with one male from each house of this race. But they are not the only ones looking for her. There are others that want to use her and will do whatever it takes. Can she believe all this? If so, does she go along with it?

This was a very interesting book. I have never read a reverse harem book before and maybe that was why, but it felt a little confusing to me at first. But the more I got into the story, the more drawn in I got. Besides the romantic side, there is action and betrayal. Isolde is interesting herself and easy of the men in her life are different, making this an even better book.

If you like supernatural romance and/or reverse harem romance, this book is for you.
Profile Image for Jenny (jennyluvslitbooks).
773 reviews12 followers
March 11, 2019
Marks of the Mazza is the first one in this series from the debut author. It tells the story of Isolde, who tries to find a purpose in her life. Orphaned at a young age and adopted by old couple, she craved what most people wants the most: love and affection. So, when she mistakenly get inside a car thinking it was her Uber ride, she didn't know that her life will change drastically.

I love, love, love this book. From the engaging way the story was told to the lovable characters, I was thoroughly sucked in to this world the author has created. I like Isolde's character. She is funny, sassy and there were a lot of moments in this book that I snorted/laughed out loud because of her crazy antics and monologues. The guys are great too and we've been introduced some of their backstory for me to distinguished one from the other. Not to mention Sage *cue dreamy sigh* Let's not forget the side characters, Rand and Yunez. I'm keeping my eyes on those two. I'm definitely intrigued with them.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one and I'll definitely continue to read the next book. Highly recommend it!




28 reviews
October 15, 2024
DNF
Before I throw a book back into the Kindle Unlimited pool, I read the reviews. Sometimes I find I just need to give the author a bit more time to hook me. This one? Not so much. The FMC had a boring backstory, lived a boring life with no interests or passions. I think she bored herself. She was kidnapped, believed everything they said and started having sex with them. On an outing where she was probably going to bond with the next in line he is attacked and injured and she is kidnapped again, ends up in some mansion, where she is told she has to dress up for dinner and she plays nice without an ounce of grit, being groomed into having sex (bonding) with various other men who are all there supporting the kidnapping while hoping for some Stockholm syndromming happening . Never had a thought about her poor wounded potential bond partner. I stopped at that point, read some reviews and chucked it at the metaphorical wall. Nice cover art, intriguing synopsis and then total disappointment.
Work with better editors and your imaginative premises will stand on more solid story telling .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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