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Desert Cursed #5
Wyvern's Lair
The odds are stacked against her as she faces her greatest challenge yet…
But that's nothing new in her world.
The fifth in the plot twisting, heart pounding, magic-riddled, USA Today bestselling Desert Cursed series.
I thought I had the next steps in my journey plotted out. I thought I knew where I was going and who I was going with—the usual crew of Lila the smart-mouthed tiny dragon, Ford the man who would be my mate if I let him, and Balder, the horse who has carried me through more danger than I can count.
Crap on a camel, I could not have been more wrong. My world is turned upside down when my crew somehow gains two people who would as soon kill me, as see me succeed.
Even with this new twist, I must get to the crossroads before the golden moon rises if we have any chance of dethroning the Emperor and bringing my brother back from the dead.
Along the way I find myself in treacherous waters facing new dangers, new enemies and a choice that no one should ever have to make.
Maks’s life is in my hands, and in the end, will love be enough to save him, or will I have to say goodbye to him once and for all?
But that's nothing new in her world.
The fifth in the plot twisting, heart pounding, magic-riddled, USA Today bestselling Desert Cursed series.
I thought I had the next steps in my journey plotted out. I thought I knew where I was going and who I was going with—the usual crew of Lila the smart-mouthed tiny dragon, Ford the man who would be my mate if I let him, and Balder, the horse who has carried me through more danger than I can count.
Crap on a camel, I could not have been more wrong. My world is turned upside down when my crew somehow gains two people who would as soon kill me, as see me succeed.
Even with this new twist, I must get to the crossroads before the golden moon rises if we have any chance of dethroning the Emperor and bringing my brother back from the dead.
Along the way I find myself in treacherous waters facing new dangers, new enemies and a choice that no one should ever have to make.
Maks’s life is in my hands, and in the end, will love be enough to save him, or will I have to say goodbye to him once and for all?
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2019
1245 people are currently reading
1525 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Mayer
143 books7,339 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 262 reviews
February 3, 2023
Another exciting but daunting adventure, one with twists and plots of the unexpected... this time however, there's some pretty good turn abouts in Zamira's favour (about time) but how long these will last is anyone's guess as she heads to the next step, to the next stone!
Absolutely love this series, I will be picking up book 6 in the near future for sure!
Absolutely love this series, I will be picking up book 6 in the near future for sure!
February 29, 2020
4-4.5 Stars. All I have to say here is thank the good lord that I waited for this series to complete before coming in and reading this. While a freaking lot is going down here in book 5.. and that ending.. who knew that crap was coming... Totally blindsided me... I felt like this book just took so freaking long to get to the goods. I think that it mainly had to do with so much time spent with the characters going back and forth indecisively, trying to figure out where they were headed next. One minute this is our goal the next minute that changes due to time constraints.. It was very back and forth which almost gave me filler vibes. If it weren't for the constant action, constant battles, constant danger, constant betrayals.. I might have felt like that.
Zam teams up with enemies.. after destroying the diamond has left her up a creek with no battle and knocking on deaths door. We get even more reveals and betrayals in this book and eventually some betrayers pay some penance.. but not that sheep effer who has turned to the enemy.. his is coming still. Journeying to the black market in search of a new gem to fix what she has broken while also trying to get to and through the Wyvern's Layer for his gem, as well as trying to make it to the cross roads like the Oracle predicted all the while having to put up with Marsum's dumb arse is really weighing hard on our favorite girl.
That ending.. just what we freaking needed. It looks like now not only does she still have to take out the Emporer but maybe even his arch nemesis. Why not...
Zam teams up with enemies.. after destroying the diamond has left her up a creek with no battle and knocking on deaths door. We get even more reveals and betrayals in this book and eventually some betrayers pay some penance.. but not that sheep effer who has turned to the enemy.. his is coming still. Journeying to the black market in search of a new gem to fix what she has broken while also trying to get to and through the Wyvern's Layer for his gem, as well as trying to make it to the cross roads like the Oracle predicted all the while having to put up with Marsum's dumb arse is really weighing hard on our favorite girl.
That ending.. just what we freaking needed. It looks like now not only does she still have to take out the Emporer but maybe even his arch nemesis. Why not...
July 15, 2019
We are almost at the last book, and TBH, I have no idea how the author is going to wrap up everything in the next book. But, on to this one, the latest is a wild ride with a few shocking revelations that had me gasping out loud. I really can’t say too much because spoilers, sweetie, but I loved this one. I do admit it was probably my least favorite out of all the books in the series, but it was still spectacular. I think it was all the snake-like things! LOL! I think Zam is such a strong character, and she has been through so much. I really like Merlin, too, and I kind of wish we could see more of him. It’ll be very sad when this is over, but I’m sure what the author writes next will be just as great! Highly recommend this book, and I received a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
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June 8, 2025
This series is literally SO good. It's been forever since I was scared of finishing a series.
ZAM AND MAK ARE LITERALLY MY BABIES.
ZAM AND MAK ARE LITERALLY MY BABIES.
March 16, 2025
I loved it! Every book in this series is consistently outstanding. The storytelling is superb. I'm attached to all the characters and places and I just want this series to go on forever.
July 8, 2019
Um okay that was just jam-packed full of shocks, twists, and turns and just left me wide-eyed and wondering what's going to happen next and omg there is only one more book to go 'gasp'
Seriously Zam has been through enough...lol and all I can think about is what's still to come...
This adventure was serious, over the top, a supernatural explosion of epic proportions and I couldn't put it down, I LOVED every page even when I wanted to scream and curse the author...lol I still couldn't put it down, talk about gripping and addictive.
If you love supernatural adventures wrapped up in a lot of mystery with an sh.t load of surprises give this series a read, give anything by Shannon Mayer a read, I have loved every single book she has ever written.
Seriously Zam has been through enough...lol and all I can think about is what's still to come...
This adventure was serious, over the top, a supernatural explosion of epic proportions and I couldn't put it down, I LOVED every page even when I wanted to scream and curse the author...lol I still couldn't put it down, talk about gripping and addictive.
If you love supernatural adventures wrapped up in a lot of mystery with an sh.t load of surprises give this series a read, give anything by Shannon Mayer a read, I have loved every single book she has ever written.
September 5, 2019
The journey started off just as bleak with her heart breaking. She sends her pack yet again far from her side but gets taken by Ishara. Her uncle Merlin sends the Jinn Master Marsum and the Ice Witch Maggi her way in hopes of helping her with her mission. Of course, nothing on her course to preventing the Emperor from awakening goes as planned. Her obstacles many, always deviating from her original plans, she continues to fall inside the dreamscape, being used by players, and traitors alike, and finding about more of her mysterious bloodline. Why she's a powerful Jinn female and the other races winning to fight alongside her.
Despite being fearful of all she encounters, she believes in her love. She believes she can save Maks, his body and soul, and she will keep her promises to the many she left behind. Powerful and eventful. Fantastic world building.
Despite being fearful of all she encounters, she believes in her love. She believes she can save Maks, his body and soul, and she will keep her promises to the many she left behind. Powerful and eventful. Fantastic world building.
July 17, 2019
I was on the edge of my seat while reading this book. It is so good!! There were times I was afraid my heart was going to shatter but yea you’ll have to read the book to find out what happens. 🤣
Just read the book. You will love the characters. They are broken, cursed, but they are a kickass, powerful team. Loved it!! Can’t wait for Emperor’s Throne!!
Just read the book. You will love the characters. They are broken, cursed, but they are a kickass, powerful team. Loved it!! Can’t wait for Emperor’s Throne!!
July 29, 2019
Wyvern’s Lair – the return to Shannon Mayer’s addicting Desert Cursed series. Zam is back, but she’s in trouble. A little accident from before is plaguing her, but she has yet to realize it or the dire consequences that it holds for her and the future of all. Maks is gone. Taken over by Marsum and the Jinn before him, but he’s not completely gone. His love for Zamira holds him still, but it’s a fight every step of the way. Allegiances will be made and betrayals will be done, but who can Zam really trust? The Emperor is intent on getting free and he will do whatever he must to do so. Ishtar is still a threat, but when will she make her next play for power? Zam’s quest soon becomes three-fold. She MUST get to the Wyvern, she MUST get to the crossroads for the magic that it will hold under the coming moon, and there is yet a new addition to her quest that she MUST undertake if she is to survive.
Wyvern’s Lair – Book 5 in the Desert Cursed series by Shannon Mayer is action-packed, drama filled and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s basically Zam and Lila against the world. Her allies are falling all around her and she seems to be fighting a losing battle. But she’s not the only one with problems. It seems that Maggi has her own issues with Ishtar. Surprise surprise that. Merlin as well has his own issues, which he will soon discover. I loved how action-packed this story is. The author teases me with hope non-stop through this book and then there are moments of where I just want to scream and shake Zam. LOL! I get being in love, wanting things to work out and fighting for it, but I get so frustrated when she seems to lose herself to those moments. Trust me…it’s usually at an inopportune time.
What I loved most about this book are the hidden pitfalls throughout. The author so expertly hid the surprises here, there, and just everywhere. Some I had a few hints or expectations of what was going to happen and then others blindsided me out of nowhere leaving me with my jaw on the floor. Thank God Steve only made a BRIEF appearance in this book, but let’s be real…I still wanted to smack him across the globe. Him and Darcy both. Grrrr!
There isn’t much that I didn’t like about this book. I will admit that I wanted Zam to be a bit heartless from time to time, but I guess that would go against her nature. But dang it! It would honestly do her some good. Sometimes it frustrates me when she’s predictable and walks right into what someone is wanting her to do. While I understand the whole situation/scene with Ford…it still bugged me that she let him go so easily. But I am glad for Zam’s development and growth as a character.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. Because hey! This book was AWESOME and the author throws us some really great moments as well. Not gonna lie…I nearly cried tears of joy or sadness a couple times. This book will seriously give you the feels. If you’ve read the previous books in this series and loved them then I highly recommend that you grab this book up because…the end is nigh…and you won’t want to miss it!
Wyvern’s Lair – Book 5 in the Desert Cursed series by Shannon Mayer is action-packed, drama filled and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s basically Zam and Lila against the world. Her allies are falling all around her and she seems to be fighting a losing battle. But she’s not the only one with problems. It seems that Maggi has her own issues with Ishtar. Surprise surprise that. Merlin as well has his own issues, which he will soon discover. I loved how action-packed this story is. The author teases me with hope non-stop through this book and then there are moments of where I just want to scream and shake Zam. LOL! I get being in love, wanting things to work out and fighting for it, but I get so frustrated when she seems to lose herself to those moments. Trust me…it’s usually at an inopportune time.
What I loved most about this book are the hidden pitfalls throughout. The author so expertly hid the surprises here, there, and just everywhere. Some I had a few hints or expectations of what was going to happen and then others blindsided me out of nowhere leaving me with my jaw on the floor. Thank God Steve only made a BRIEF appearance in this book, but let’s be real…I still wanted to smack him across the globe. Him and Darcy both. Grrrr!
There isn’t much that I didn’t like about this book. I will admit that I wanted Zam to be a bit heartless from time to time, but I guess that would go against her nature. But dang it! It would honestly do her some good. Sometimes it frustrates me when she’s predictable and walks right into what someone is wanting her to do. While I understand the whole situation/scene with Ford…it still bugged me that she let him go so easily. But I am glad for Zam’s development and growth as a character.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. Because hey! This book was AWESOME and the author throws us some really great moments as well. Not gonna lie…I nearly cried tears of joy or sadness a couple times. This book will seriously give you the feels. If you’ve read the previous books in this series and loved them then I highly recommend that you grab this book up because…the end is nigh…and you won’t want to miss it!
December 5, 2019
It was great to be back in this world and hanging out with Zam. There is alot going on and it took me a bit to remember what was happening and all the lying, backstabbing and story threads
That's not to say it wasn't good but I think this series deserves a re-read from beginning to end
That's not to say it wasn't good but I think this series deserves a re-read from beginning to end
December 4, 2020
It's going to take a super awkward turn for me not to enjoy this series fully. I don't think it's possible after these first 5 books. I wanted to know a little more about the market & the Wyvern, but super happy where this story is going. I miss Ford though.
July 17, 2019
Action, Fast paced, and Treachery
Another well written story by Shannon Mayer! The next to last book of the series, there are many tales/paths incredibly woven into one book. It will be exciting to see how Zamira’s story ends and how her triad holds up.
Another well written story by Shannon Mayer! The next to last book of the series, there are many tales/paths incredibly woven into one book. It will be exciting to see how Zamira’s story ends and how her triad holds up.
July 5, 2019
Don't expect to breathe too often while reading this book. Action, emotion, traitors, friends and, as usual in this series, lots of pure love are put on every page. Be aware of who your friends really are. Zam knows that only Lila is truly an unconditional friend. Everyone else comes with games, tricks or just plain evil. But she must trust some. She has too much to do, too many people to save. So enemies become allies - or do they? With Shannon Mayer, one never knows till the turn of the page, end of the chapter or the end of the book. Before her designated time frame everything is up for grabs. Try to guess what's coming? You'll be surprised. Try not to fall in love with these characters? You will lose.
May 4, 2021
July 2019 review:
This book was everything I could have asked for as the next installment in the desert cursed series. So much action and emotion. Zamira and Lila finally got what they both wanted and needed! I screamed with joy so many times in this book. I couldn’t believe the twists and turns! Every time I thought I had something pinned down I was wrong. So many traitors in the midst of this group. I can’t wait to see how Shannon Mayer ends this excellent series.
April 2021 review:
Wyvern’s Lair has been and will always been my favorite book in this series. So many things were brought to light and you start to find out who the big players are. As is common in Shannon Mayer’s books you think you know what to expect and then things take an immediate turn and drop you off a cliff. This book will have you laughing, crying, screaming and falling in love with these characters all over again.
Yes, I read this book twice. 🤷🏻♀️
This book was everything I could have asked for as the next installment in the desert cursed series. So much action and emotion. Zamira and Lila finally got what they both wanted and needed! I screamed with joy so many times in this book. I couldn’t believe the twists and turns! Every time I thought I had something pinned down I was wrong. So many traitors in the midst of this group. I can’t wait to see how Shannon Mayer ends this excellent series.
April 2021 review:
Wyvern’s Lair has been and will always been my favorite book in this series. So many things were brought to light and you start to find out who the big players are. As is common in Shannon Mayer’s books you think you know what to expect and then things take an immediate turn and drop you off a cliff. This book will have you laughing, crying, screaming and falling in love with these characters all over again.
Yes, I read this book twice. 🤷🏻♀️
January 2, 2022
Oh man! Shakespeare❣
Just wow! No other words needed even though more are required. This book is really, really good. I have missed these quirky, badass, Shakespeare quoting characters! The world building of this series just gets more and more awesome. The range of emotions each character brings to the story brought me as a reader through it with them. The action scenes are edge-of-your-seat (sorry for the cliche but really there isn't any other way to describe it) Nail biting twists and turns, emotion and excitement. So good. Really, really good book.
Just wow! No other words needed even though more are required. This book is really, really good. I have missed these quirky, badass, Shakespeare quoting characters! The world building of this series just gets more and more awesome. The range of emotions each character brings to the story brought me as a reader through it with them. The action scenes are edge-of-your-seat (sorry for the cliche but really there isn't any other way to describe it) Nail biting twists and turns, emotion and excitement. So good. Really, really good book.
January 8, 2026
Ok, I'm invested and loving this series (obviously: I'm 5 books in with 4-5⭐️ ratings for each). The world building is excellent, the action an twists and turns keep me riveted, Maks my beloved is back... I'm all in. Not sure what I can say that I haven't said 4 times before.
So that being said, I'm going to be nitpicky in this review, because I can (and because these are things I've noticed in previous books of the series, even touched on some of them previously). Needless to say ...
*** Mild Spoilers Ahead ***
- The whole Zam/Ford situationship ended 5 minutes after it started. And while I'm definitely team Maks, it felt cheap. More of an (unneeded) "hook for the next book" that was dropped within the first few paragraphs. I feel for Ford, but it's ok cause we sent him away and he'll probably end up with Kiara while he's gone, rendering the whole "break-up" unnecessary and giving Zam an easy way out.
- Speaking of Kiara, I litteraly said in the last review that I was glad we were done with all the back and forth saving the pride, and that since Kiara and Steve/Darcy went separate, opposite ways I hoped we didn't see them again until it was all over. And yet somehow they all ended up back at the Stockyards with Ish (and Ford). So, of course, now we're going back to save them. I just hope I finally get the Steve/Darcy murder I've been yearning for. I'm just worried that because Maggi was the one who said Zam would need to kill Steve, and she ended up betraying us, Zam will take that as proof everything she said was a lie and let Steve go again!
- It has become habit now that the whole book is focused on going to see a powerful being, whether for answers or help, and when we finally get there, the conversation lasts less than five minutes and we get nothing for our trouble. There's a lot of traversing the world, but very little to show for it other than injuries and fatigue. And stones, I guess. We do end up with a stone by the end, but it feels incidental and we also lose stones on the way, so it sort of cancels out.
- Where the hell is Marcel? I'm joking. Sort of. We keep getting ex-villains who, surprise! are still villains, back. I want Marcel to be there for more than one scene. Hell I'd settle for Shem too. But other than them (and maybe Ford and Kiara) I say we don't need any more additions to the quest. In fact, based on precedent, I say if anyone else tries to join us, we shoot first and ask questions later.
- I get it, everyone has read and memorized every single one of the Bard's works. But are those the only books that survived? Surely we can expand the game and quote other authors/playwrights. Heck, quote some movies. I'm not saying we're running out of quotes, but I have seen the same lines quoted more than once.
So that being said, I'm going to be nitpicky in this review, because I can (and because these are things I've noticed in previous books of the series, even touched on some of them previously). Needless to say ...
*** Mild Spoilers Ahead ***
- The whole Zam/Ford situationship ended 5 minutes after it started. And while I'm definitely team Maks, it felt cheap. More of an (unneeded) "hook for the next book" that was dropped within the first few paragraphs. I feel for Ford, but it's ok cause we sent him away and he'll probably end up with Kiara while he's gone, rendering the whole "break-up" unnecessary and giving Zam an easy way out.
- Speaking of Kiara, I litteraly said in the last review that I was glad we were done with all the back and forth saving the pride, and that since Kiara and Steve/Darcy went separate, opposite ways I hoped we didn't see them again until it was all over. And yet somehow they all ended up back at the Stockyards with Ish (and Ford). So, of course, now we're going back to save them. I just hope I finally get the Steve/Darcy murder I've been yearning for. I'm just worried that because Maggi was the one who said Zam would need to kill Steve, and she ended up betraying us, Zam will take that as proof everything she said was a lie and let Steve go again!
- It has become habit now that the whole book is focused on going to see a powerful being, whether for answers or help, and when we finally get there, the conversation lasts less than five minutes and we get nothing for our trouble. There's a lot of traversing the world, but very little to show for it other than injuries and fatigue. And stones, I guess. We do end up with a stone by the end, but it feels incidental and we also lose stones on the way, so it sort of cancels out.
- Where the hell is Marcel? I'm joking. Sort of. We keep getting ex-villains who, surprise! are still villains, back. I want Marcel to be there for more than one scene. Hell I'd settle for Shem too. But other than them (and maybe Ford and Kiara) I say we don't need any more additions to the quest. In fact, based on precedent, I say if anyone else tries to join us, we shoot first and ask questions later.
- I get it, everyone has read and memorized every single one of the Bard's works. But are those the only books that survived? Surely we can expand the game and quote other authors/playwrights. Heck, quote some movies. I'm not saying we're running out of quotes, but I have seen the same lines quoted more than once.
July 22, 2019
"That didn't go as planned"
That's the main phrase of this book. Not that it was said a lot, but that's what was on my mind. Which is good. Once a book or series starts going as the reader plans, it becomes predictable, therefore all the fun is taken out of it. This was not predictable at all. "Didn't see that coming", was another phrase in my head.
When Zam and company go on a quest, anything can happen, and usually does. This time she's headed out to the Wyvern's Lair because the Oracle said that's where she'd find what she needed to bring her brother, Bryce, back from the dead and bring her beloved Maks back into her arms. The Oracle threw in a bunch of other riddles for Zam to figure out too. Of course, as I said, nothing goes as planned, which leads them on a different trail. A literal twist in the road, you might say. Twisty is right!!! This time there were so many twists and turns it was....WOW!!! And I loved every minute of it.
My favorite line in the book: Lila-
"She dropped to the sand next to Marsum and jammed two claws up his nose, pulling on the nostrils. I batted her away and she pulled her claws out, and wiped them in his hair."
Talk about a fish hook!!! I actually laughed out loud with that one!!!
That's the main phrase of this book. Not that it was said a lot, but that's what was on my mind. Which is good. Once a book or series starts going as the reader plans, it becomes predictable, therefore all the fun is taken out of it. This was not predictable at all. "Didn't see that coming", was another phrase in my head.
When Zam and company go on a quest, anything can happen, and usually does. This time she's headed out to the Wyvern's Lair because the Oracle said that's where she'd find what she needed to bring her brother, Bryce, back from the dead and bring her beloved Maks back into her arms. The Oracle threw in a bunch of other riddles for Zam to figure out too. Of course, as I said, nothing goes as planned, which leads them on a different trail. A literal twist in the road, you might say. Twisty is right!!! This time there were so many twists and turns it was....WOW!!! And I loved every minute of it.
My favorite line in the book: Lila-
"She dropped to the sand next to Marsum and jammed two claws up his nose, pulling on the nostrils. I batted her away and she pulled her claws out, and wiped them in his hair."
Talk about a fish hook!!! I actually laughed out loud with that one!!!
April 23, 2022
Only for the stout of heart
This is another cleverly written episode. When you think it has gotten as good as it can get, it gets better. When you think the action can't get more intense it does. Even though you know the characters are fairy tale characters, they become real the way that Shannon skillfully portrays them. The main character, Zamira, is perfectly portraid. She is described as small, weak, and not scary in appearance, but shows continually how her love, desire, determination, and exceptional specialb abilities pull her through impossible situations one after another. Through each of masterfully described challenges, your heartbeat rate will rise with belief that she can't survive this impossibly difficult challenge. Yet she does. By the end of this book, you are eager to begin the next one. It's a beautifully written story. You will find yourself cheering for the under dog, while you are wondering who she can trust and whether she can possibly survive what's ahead. If you want to read something that's fun and inspiring, you'll want to read this. I'm eager begin the next in the series. I can't wait!
This is another cleverly written episode. When you think it has gotten as good as it can get, it gets better. When you think the action can't get more intense it does. Even though you know the characters are fairy tale characters, they become real the way that Shannon skillfully portrays them. The main character, Zamira, is perfectly portraid. She is described as small, weak, and not scary in appearance, but shows continually how her love, desire, determination, and exceptional specialb abilities pull her through impossible situations one after another. Through each of masterfully described challenges, your heartbeat rate will rise with belief that she can't survive this impossibly difficult challenge. Yet she does. By the end of this book, you are eager to begin the next one. It's a beautifully written story. You will find yourself cheering for the under dog, while you are wondering who she can trust and whether she can possibly survive what's ahead. If you want to read something that's fun and inspiring, you'll want to read this. I'm eager begin the next in the series. I can't wait!
July 28, 2019
Another great story... but
I’ve said it in several reviews now... each book is well written and nothing short of amazing. BUT... it’s time for it to end, seriously. It just keeps going and going, but the plot isn’t moving along at all.
Yes we wrapped up some things, like the whole Maks drama and how to remove Ford from the situation without really dealing with him, then other points were just completely left for us to just accept without real explanation. Kiara and Steve split off in different directions, yet Ish sent humans to be able to find both groups? We were lead to believe humans were scarce in that part of the desert and the Stockyards blew up some time ago, remember?? Or the fact that Lila is now curse free, but we weren’t treated with a reason for her being cursed, it wasn’t like Zam who’s curse was inherited.
I’m griping about little things, truly. This book had everything suspense, humor, plenty of action and betrayal. But it really is time to wrap this up now that you’ve introduced another big bad.
I’ve said it in several reviews now... each book is well written and nothing short of amazing. BUT... it’s time for it to end, seriously. It just keeps going and going, but the plot isn’t moving along at all.
Yes we wrapped up some things, like the whole Maks drama and how to remove Ford from the situation without really dealing with him, then other points were just completely left for us to just accept without real explanation. Kiara and Steve split off in different directions, yet Ish sent humans to be able to find both groups? We were lead to believe humans were scarce in that part of the desert and the Stockyards blew up some time ago, remember?? Or the fact that Lila is now curse free, but we weren’t treated with a reason for her being cursed, it wasn’t like Zam who’s curse was inherited.
I’m griping about little things, truly. This book had everything suspense, humor, plenty of action and betrayal. But it really is time to wrap this up now that you’ve introduced another big bad.
October 2, 2019
Dammit woman
I put off reading this book for as long as I possibly could so I would be closer to the release of book 6 and then I'd know all of the things, but alas, I couldn't out the damn book down. Now I want to say all of the curse words because I have so many emotions right now. This was an excellent book as usual. I am so freaking happy that certain things finally happened, which shall not be named here for the sake of not spoiling it for other readers!! You have to read this series and this book and the next book, then the next series and so on and so on. I am sucked into the world you create every time and I can't escape and more importantly O DON'T WANT TO ESCAPE! I want to live there forever with these characters you create and these intricate world's. You. Are. Amazing!!! I love Zam so much and Maks, Lila and dammit you even made me like Marsum but Thank the Lord you did not make me like STEVE!!!!!!! THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN!! HE MUST DIE AND HE MUST DIE SOON!! 😉😉😁😁
I put off reading this book for as long as I possibly could so I would be closer to the release of book 6 and then I'd know all of the things, but alas, I couldn't out the damn book down. Now I want to say all of the curse words because I have so many emotions right now. This was an excellent book as usual. I am so freaking happy that certain things finally happened, which shall not be named here for the sake of not spoiling it for other readers!! You have to read this series and this book and the next book, then the next series and so on and so on. I am sucked into the world you create every time and I can't escape and more importantly O DON'T WANT TO ESCAPE! I want to live there forever with these characters you create and these intricate world's. You. Are. Amazing!!! I love Zam so much and Maks, Lila and dammit you even made me like Marsum but Thank the Lord you did not make me like STEVE!!!!!!! THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN!! HE MUST DIE AND HE MUST DIE SOON!! 😉😉😁😁
July 18, 2019
This book is so good! The characters are very well developed, the scenes are excellent and the pace is just right. This one is a page turner.
Zam is back and she and Lila are in more danger than ever. This time she might not make it out of her quest alive. She is forced to look to a mortal enemy for help. She needs to trust two people that have both tried to kill her in the past, the trouble is she is not sure which if she can trust either of them.
Merlin is doing his best to help Zam as much as he can, but he has his own problems now.
The desert is a very unforgiving place and one mistake can cost you your life. Zam has made more mistakes than she cares to think about and she knows that sooner or later the desert will claim her, right now it is looking like sooner.
Grab some tissues, and block out some time because once you dive in to this book you will not put it down until the end.
Zam is back and she and Lila are in more danger than ever. This time she might not make it out of her quest alive. She is forced to look to a mortal enemy for help. She needs to trust two people that have both tried to kill her in the past, the trouble is she is not sure which if she can trust either of them.
Merlin is doing his best to help Zam as much as he can, but he has his own problems now.
The desert is a very unforgiving place and one mistake can cost you your life. Zam has made more mistakes than she cares to think about and she knows that sooner or later the desert will claim her, right now it is looking like sooner.
Grab some tissues, and block out some time because once you dive in to this book you will not put it down until the end.
July 22, 2019
Wyvern's Lair picks right up where Oracle's Haunt ended. Zam has to try to get to the Wyvern's Lair to find out how to bring her brother back, while avoiding the Emperor's clutches, Ishtar's craziness, and trying to mend her broken heart after Maks told her he's going into a deep sleep. Will she ever be able to bring Maks back, what does she do about Ford, and most importantly who can she trust aside from herself and Lila? All these questions get answered in this book that just might be the best in the series (so far). Like all the other books in the series, it's action packed and poor Zam just can't catch a break. I was not expecting the twists and turns this book took. I can't wait to find out what happens next. Zam's story is like a complex chess game. One where we're not sure who the players are, but Zam and her crew are the pieces being pushed across the board.
September 5, 2019
The journey started off just as bleak with her heart breaking. She sends her pack yet again far from her side but gets taken by Ishara. Her uncle Merlin sends the Jinn Master Marsum and the Ice Witch Maggi her way in hopes of helping her with her mission. Of course, nothing on her course to preventing the Emperor from awakening goes as planned. Her obstacles many, always deviating from her original plans, she continues to fall inside the dreamscape, being used by players, and traitors alike, and finding about more of her mysterious bloodline. Why she's a powerful Jinn female and the other races winning to fight alongside her.
Despite being fearful of all she encounters, she believes in her love. She believes she can save Maks, his body and soul, and she will keep her promises to the many she left behind. Powerful and eventful. Fantastic world building.
Read by Tina
Despite being fearful of all she encounters, she believes in her love. She believes she can save Maks, his body and soul, and she will keep her promises to the many she left behind. Powerful and eventful. Fantastic world building.
Read by Tina
August 21, 2019
Holy Moly! It took me a few days to digest everything that happened in this book and get my thoughts and feelings together! What a wild race through this book! I shouldn't be surprised that Shannon will shock me again and yes, she did it again! I loved this book which isn't any surprise because I love this entire series and now we are almost at the end. I think Zam and Lila are my favorite characters. No, there's is Maks who earned quite a big part of my heart too. I have to say I love all the characters, and the way they interact with each other. I love that Shakespeare game they're playing throughout this series!
Did I say how many times I've been screaming, shouting, crying and even cursing nearly having heart attack while reading this book with all twists and turns! I didn't see all of this coming, not the way it was. But, you should pick up this series and definitely this book too, to enjoy Zamiras and her "mismatching" pride's journey! It's amazing!
Did I say how many times I've been screaming, shouting, crying and even cursing nearly having heart attack while reading this book with all twists and turns! I didn't see all of this coming, not the way it was. But, you should pick up this series and definitely this book too, to enjoy Zamiras and her "mismatching" pride's journey! It's amazing!
August 17, 2021
I didn't expect that ending!
I almost don't know what to say! There were 3 character arcs that seem to have been resolved. Though I don't trust Shannon to not spring something on us again. ;)
I did NOT expect to see the resolution for those three (trying to not have spoilers) this soon in the series.
There were 2 enemies *probably* eliminated. I mean, it's fantasy, they might come back.
But there are certainly still quite a few enemies gunning for Zam, her pride, or world domination. All of which Zam would like to prevent.
Aaand, there's still a meddling Merlin who may or may not actually be helping. 🤣
I'm looking forward to listening to the next book and hopefully, Steve will get his comeuppance.
In full disclosure, I received a free copy of the audiobook for an honest review.
I almost don't know what to say! There were 3 character arcs that seem to have been resolved. Though I don't trust Shannon to not spring something on us again. ;)
I did NOT expect to see the resolution for those three (trying to not have spoilers) this soon in the series.
There were 2 enemies *probably* eliminated. I mean, it's fantasy, they might come back.
But there are certainly still quite a few enemies gunning for Zam, her pride, or world domination. All of which Zam would like to prevent.
Aaand, there's still a meddling Merlin who may or may not actually be helping. 🤣
I'm looking forward to listening to the next book and hopefully, Steve will get his comeuppance.
In full disclosure, I received a free copy of the audiobook for an honest review.
July 4, 2019
Wow! There is so much to say about this book. The twists and turns are great, and the emotions brought forth are such a mix of feelings.
Shannon Mayer is an incredible writer, and this current Desert Cursed entry is no exception. She has a gift of making every word count, and every emotion real.
Zam, Max, and Lila are together, in various forms and trials. Zam’s magic is growing and so is her ability to control it, well sort of.
There are so many things I want to say, but I don’t like spoilers in reviews, so I won’t do that to you. Just know that this is an excellent addition to the Desert Cursed series, and Shannon’s library. Enjoy today!
Shannon Mayer is an incredible writer, and this current Desert Cursed entry is no exception. She has a gift of making every word count, and every emotion real.
Zam, Max, and Lila are together, in various forms and trials. Zam’s magic is growing and so is her ability to control it, well sort of.
There are so many things I want to say, but I don’t like spoilers in reviews, so I won’t do that to you. Just know that this is an excellent addition to the Desert Cursed series, and Shannon’s library. Enjoy today!
July 6, 2019
Wow! This series just gets better and better! Wyvern's Lair was a labyrinth of twists and turns, deception and betrayal, but with a beautiful underlying theme that love is far greater than all of these. Zam just gets stronger and stronger as she battles for her life and the fate of the world. Lila is back in all of her snarky, Shakespeare quoting glory. Maks is....complicated. As enemies become allies and trust is nonexistent, Wyvern's Lair will keep you invested until the very end, when you'll be longing for more. Even better, with the answers given, more questions come, so I know the ending is going to be just incredible. Great writing, great story, great escape!
July 16, 2019
Utterly Fantastic!
As always Shannon knows just how to keep us entertained and enthralled in her stories. This one does not disappoint. Packed full with lots of action, suspense and intrigue. With a lot of little twists and turns thrown in to make us wonder what the heck is going to happen next to these characters. The plot twists are intense and amazing. The characters are all so fantastic and amazingly well written. Love Zam, Lila and Maks.
The world building is believable and realistic. Everything about this series is very captivating and intense, and so enjoyable to read.
Highly recommend this series.
As always Shannon knows just how to keep us entertained and enthralled in her stories. This one does not disappoint. Packed full with lots of action, suspense and intrigue. With a lot of little twists and turns thrown in to make us wonder what the heck is going to happen next to these characters. The plot twists are intense and amazing. The characters are all so fantastic and amazingly well written. Love Zam, Lila and Maks.
The world building is believable and realistic. Everything about this series is very captivating and intense, and so enjoyable to read.
Highly recommend this series.
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