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The Magic Knot #1
The Magic Knot
When Rose discovers she is the Cornish pisky queen and her father is a dark druid who has imprisoned her people in portraits, the race is on to discover the fairy lore needed to release her people before her father destroys the piskies forever.
She seeks help from the sinfully sexy Irish fairy twins, the O'Connor brothers. Niall's faint air of menace flutters dark thrills of anticipation through her, but does he want to kiss her or kill her when she accidentally touches his Magic Knot and forges a mystical lovers' bond with him? And can she resist the seductive glamour of his mischievous brother Michael?
With the survival of the Cornish piskies in her hands, Rose must escape from a vampiric, winged fairy, outwit The Queen of Nightmares and surrender her mind, body and spirit to Niall to release her hidden inner fairy. The Tarot cards warn he will stab her in the back, but when she's in his arms, the last thing on her mind is death.
She seeks help from the sinfully sexy Irish fairy twins, the O'Connor brothers. Niall's faint air of menace flutters dark thrills of anticipation through her, but does he want to kiss her or kill her when she accidentally touches his Magic Knot and forges a mystical lovers' bond with him? And can she resist the seductive glamour of his mischievous brother Michael?
With the survival of the Cornish piskies in her hands, Rose must escape from a vampiric, winged fairy, outwit The Queen of Nightmares and surrender her mind, body and spirit to Niall to release her hidden inner fairy. The Tarot cards warn he will stab her in the back, but when she's in his arms, the last thing on her mind is death.
308 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2013
104 people are currently reading
602 people want to read
About the author
Helen Scott Taylor
55 books242 followersUSA Today bestselling author, Helen Scott Taylor, had her first book released in 2009. The Magic Knot, won the American Title contest, was a Golden Heart® finalist, and was chosen as one of Booklist's top ten romances of 2009. Since then, she has published other novels, novellas, and short stories in both the UK and USA.
Helen lives in South West England near Exeter in Devon. As well as her wonderful long-suffering husband, she shares her home with a Westie and a birman cat. She believes that deep within everyone there's a little magic.
Helen lives in South West England near Exeter in Devon. As well as her wonderful long-suffering husband, she shares her home with a Westie and a birman cat. She believes that deep within everyone there's a little magic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 8, 2014
After rejecting the fairy-queens advances Niall O´Connor, a half-fairy had to take flight from the queen´s court. His brother and sister went with him because the fairy-queen´s wrath would have made them an easy target to hurt Niall and force him to come back. They went into hiding in Cornwall where he and and his brother opened up an inn. To ensure their safety Niall needs the help of a druid to cast a protection spell over their home. Of course, this spell has to be renewed once in a while, what of course suits the druid and his own plans well.
When Rosenwyn Tremain comes in business matters to Cornwall she hopes for a quick investigation because her second matter is to find out more about her unknown father whom she hopes to trace and maybe even meet. When she arrives at the inn whose financial status she has to investigate the two owners aren´t very helpful and so Rose is forced to snoop around which leads her to the discovery the secret they´re hiding...
Th story has plenty of action and the villain is really creepy but the love story between Niall and Rosenwyn didn´t really convince me, I fear. I wasn´t really sure if their love was real or provoked because Rose touched Niall´s Magic stones Knot. Of course we are assured that their love just wasn´t fake but true - but there always stayed a little doubt at the back of my mind I couldn´t ditch. Furthermore I couldn´t really connect with Rose, when I´m honest I even disliked her on occasion and Niall with his attitude to keep Rose in the dark about his plans and his tortured ado about not being good enough for Rose was sometimes just to much. What really started to annoy me after the hundredth mention was Niall calling Rose "lass" ("Take the lass and..." or " 'Tis my turn now, lass") at every opportunity and not by her name. It seemed a bit impersonal to me and when I started to count the mention of this word at every page I knew I had a problem ...(but okay, I admit that´s just me, others I´m sure won´t care).
The most interesting character in this book was in my opinion Nightshade, a vampiric nightstalker with wings (Surprising, isn´t it? Once a vampire girl always ad vampire girl, blah blah blah...) and Rose´ ally – or not? I´m not sure but I think there are more books to come in this series and I´m hoping for a story with Nightshade as a main character....
I liked the creative and magical plot, the setting Cornwall and Ireland was interesting and I´m curious if there will a sequel?
Website of the author: http://www.helenscotttaylor.com/
When Rosenwyn Tremain comes in business matters to Cornwall she hopes for a quick investigation because her second matter is to find out more about her unknown father whom she hopes to trace and maybe even meet. When she arrives at the inn whose financial status she has to investigate the two owners aren´t very helpful and so Rose is forced to snoop around which leads her to the discovery the secret they´re hiding...
Th story has plenty of action and the villain is really creepy but the love story between Niall and Rosenwyn didn´t really convince me, I fear. I wasn´t really sure if their love was real or provoked because Rose touched Niall´s Magic stones Knot. Of course we are assured that their love just wasn´t fake but true - but there always stayed a little doubt at the back of my mind I couldn´t ditch. Furthermore I couldn´t really connect with Rose, when I´m honest I even disliked her on occasion and Niall with his attitude to keep Rose in the dark about his plans and his tortured ado about not being good enough for Rose was sometimes just to much. What really started to annoy me after the hundredth mention was Niall calling Rose "lass" ("Take the lass and..." or " 'Tis my turn now, lass") at every opportunity and not by her name. It seemed a bit impersonal to me and when I started to count the mention of this word at every page I knew I had a problem ...(but okay, I admit that´s just me, others I´m sure won´t care).
The most interesting character in this book was in my opinion Nightshade, a vampiric nightstalker with wings (Surprising, isn´t it? Once a vampire girl always ad vampire girl, blah blah blah...) and Rose´ ally – or not? I´m not sure but I think there are more books to come in this series and I´m hoping for a story with Nightshade as a main character....
I liked the creative and magical plot, the setting Cornwall and Ireland was interesting and I´m curious if there will a sequel?
Website of the author: http://www.helenscotttaylor.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2009
I was hoping for a little bit more from Helen Scott Taylor's "The Magic Knot". This is a contemporary paranormal about a half-Fae, half-pisky who learns the truth about her lineage with the help of a sexy half-Fae, half-leprechaun.
When Rose heads for her latest accounting job in Cornwall, the last thing she expected to encounter was a sexy biker with a serious attitude. Although her mother had always warned her never to enter Cornwall, after her mother's death Rose is feeling lost and wants to search for her Cornish father. What she finally finds in this magical land will change her life...assuming she lives through it.
Niall is a protector. Right now he has his hands full hiding his sister and brother from the eyes of the Fae Queen. The last thing he wanted, or expected, was the beautiful woman he meets at his brother's pub turning out to be not only a Pisky Queen, but his mate.
It started out with such promise, but for me, the scope of the story was too much for just 300 pages. There were chunks of information left dangling, or missing, and the action moved at an incredible pace. The main characters didn't seem to have much time to connect which left me confused when they fell in (and out of) love so often and so quickly. The setting, on the other hand, was fabulous and made me want to visit Cornwall again. I think in the end I'd have to say the editing of the story was likely what caused me problems. I'll be looking to see what Helen Scott Taylor comes up with next and hope the scope is more agreeable to the length of the story.
When Rose heads for her latest accounting job in Cornwall, the last thing she expected to encounter was a sexy biker with a serious attitude. Although her mother had always warned her never to enter Cornwall, after her mother's death Rose is feeling lost and wants to search for her Cornish father. What she finally finds in this magical land will change her life...assuming she lives through it.
Niall is a protector. Right now he has his hands full hiding his sister and brother from the eyes of the Fae Queen. The last thing he wanted, or expected, was the beautiful woman he meets at his brother's pub turning out to be not only a Pisky Queen, but his mate.
It started out with such promise, but for me, the scope of the story was too much for just 300 pages. There were chunks of information left dangling, or missing, and the action moved at an incredible pace. The main characters didn't seem to have much time to connect which left me confused when they fell in (and out of) love so often and so quickly. The setting, on the other hand, was fabulous and made me want to visit Cornwall again. I think in the end I'd have to say the editing of the story was likely what caused me problems. I'll be looking to see what Helen Scott Taylor comes up with next and hope the scope is more agreeable to the length of the story.
September 22, 2008
No wonder Helen Scott-Taylor's The Magic Knot won the 2008 American Title Contest. When Rose touches the three linked stones of Niall’s Magic Knot, she forges magical lovers’ bond with him and creates a love that survives many tribulations at the hands of her evil father. The Magic Knot is a wonderful paranormal story, a Harry Potter for adults, with a good dose of sensual passion. Once you start reading, you won’t be able to put down this book.
May 24, 2009
Booklist gave this a starred review, and I read it to see what they considered a great romance novel.
I'm sorry to say I was disappointed. Paranormal and fantasy romance has become a huge sub-genre the past several years, and there are numerous writers out there competing with Taylor's work. Authors like Melissa Mayhue, Shanna Swenson, Joy Nash are just a few other contemporary authors who have mixed romance and fairy lore with better results, in my opinion.
There wasn't much detail or organization to Taylor's world-building, and the plot line jumped from point to point instead of flowing smoothly. Worst of all, I didn't think the author was convincing when it came to making the hero and heroine irresistible to one another. The hero is self-centered and an emotional wimp, and his reasons for loving the heroine aren't very clear. The heroine seems to primarily be attracted to the hero for his looks, which is understandable since his emotional development seems to have been stunted somewhere around age 20.
What saves the novel are the secondary characters - the hero's twin brother and father, and the heroine's childhood friend known as Nightshade. If Taylor continues writing about her world to further develop these characters, I think future books could be much better.
I'm sorry to say I was disappointed. Paranormal and fantasy romance has become a huge sub-genre the past several years, and there are numerous writers out there competing with Taylor's work. Authors like Melissa Mayhue, Shanna Swenson, Joy Nash are just a few other contemporary authors who have mixed romance and fairy lore with better results, in my opinion.
There wasn't much detail or organization to Taylor's world-building, and the plot line jumped from point to point instead of flowing smoothly. Worst of all, I didn't think the author was convincing when it came to making the hero and heroine irresistible to one another. The hero is self-centered and an emotional wimp, and his reasons for loving the heroine aren't very clear. The heroine seems to primarily be attracted to the hero for his looks, which is understandable since his emotional development seems to have been stunted somewhere around age 20.
What saves the novel are the secondary characters - the hero's twin brother and father, and the heroine's childhood friend known as Nightshade. If Taylor continues writing about her world to further develop these characters, I think future books could be much better.
February 16, 2009
This was an amazing book. It kept me enthralled from start to finish and I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it, anticipating how it would turn out. It met and exceeded my expectations. For anyone who enjoys paranormal love stories, this is the book for you.
August 15, 2025
When the heroine accepts the job to travel to Cronwall for work, she does so knowing that her mother always forbid her from being in the county. But her mother was never a decent mother to her- with the drugs and the drinking- so, perhaps a little naively, she's now in search of her father, hoping the man can stabilize her in a way.
Now, in the Irish pub run by 2 gorgeous but very different brothers, the heroine's life as she knows it is about to change forever. The young brother, the jovial and shamelessly flirtatious one is stunning beautiful but it's the elder brother, the withdrawn and surly one, that truly catches her eye. The man is obviously inconvenienced by her presence and though she's never considered herself beautiful or attractive to men, she finds her feelings a bit hurt by his complete disregard. But she's determined to do a job despite the brothers hindrance and one day when searching for the accounting for the pub, she stumbles upon a trio of stones and when she touches the object, all hell breaks loose.
Now, she's targeted by a winged man who turns out to be a childhood companion, her father is an evil wizard who has imprisoned her pixie brethren and she's now bonded by magic to the hero who wants nothing to do with her.
The hero's thought has always been for the safety of his sister and his brother. When he turned down the attentions of his Queen, it meant his family began a target for her revenge. He's paid a wizard for a cloaking spell but when the man demands the heroine's imprisonment as well, the hero suddenly becomes torn between duty to his family and the woman whos come to mean a great deal to him. He betrays her, sure, but he's quick to help her escape as well.
Now, he's her guide into the fairy world while she searches for the power to save her people from enslavement. The half human heroine is vulnerable to fae trickery and savagery and the hero is fearful that he will not be strong enough to be what she needs him to be.
The heroine, once a boring accountant suddenly finds herself in a battle to awaken her powers, save her people and somehow find a way to bring this strong, but stubborn man out of his else imposed prison.
Another jolly swim in the world of Fae and magical mythology. While I found this book to be a bit disjointed with the plotline jumping haphazardly at times as the heroine navigates the world she never knew existed, I did enjoy myself.
What made this book good was the complex but hard to hate hero. He was so cute with his Irish accent and surly attitude throughout the book. He was rarely known grin let alone laugh and when he did, the sound was described as rusty and misused. He had a lot of pride and he bore a lot of stress and responsibility on his shoulders. His brother was jovial and childish and the hero was left with the burden of constantly worrying about their sister.
The hero has always felt inadequate- starting with his childhood rejection from his father and carrying on through his adult years. It molded himself a very stern and emotionally closed up individual. The journey to get him to let down those walls was a long and hard one, just as the heroine. She was on one hand reluctant to accept her new life but at the same time, she felt responsible for her peoples state. She was at times childish herself and annoying as she had the habit of being a tad arrogant and a bit of a know it all. But she also had a good heart and a trusting nature that got her in trouble.
They had an intense and deep bond but one full of tension and mistrust. Also, I've never known a hero to actually stab a heroine before so that was new. Over all, I liked this book. It was a bit off for me at times and I can't say I really loved it but it was fun and had good characterization.
P.S. I would love to have Nightstalker be a hero in his own right because I loved him as a character.
Now, in the Irish pub run by 2 gorgeous but very different brothers, the heroine's life as she knows it is about to change forever. The young brother, the jovial and shamelessly flirtatious one is stunning beautiful but it's the elder brother, the withdrawn and surly one, that truly catches her eye. The man is obviously inconvenienced by her presence and though she's never considered herself beautiful or attractive to men, she finds her feelings a bit hurt by his complete disregard. But she's determined to do a job despite the brothers hindrance and one day when searching for the accounting for the pub, she stumbles upon a trio of stones and when she touches the object, all hell breaks loose.
Now, she's targeted by a winged man who turns out to be a childhood companion, her father is an evil wizard who has imprisoned her pixie brethren and she's now bonded by magic to the hero who wants nothing to do with her.
The hero's thought has always been for the safety of his sister and his brother. When he turned down the attentions of his Queen, it meant his family began a target for her revenge. He's paid a wizard for a cloaking spell but when the man demands the heroine's imprisonment as well, the hero suddenly becomes torn between duty to his family and the woman whos come to mean a great deal to him. He betrays her, sure, but he's quick to help her escape as well.
Now, he's her guide into the fairy world while she searches for the power to save her people from enslavement. The half human heroine is vulnerable to fae trickery and savagery and the hero is fearful that he will not be strong enough to be what she needs him to be.
The heroine, once a boring accountant suddenly finds herself in a battle to awaken her powers, save her people and somehow find a way to bring this strong, but stubborn man out of his else imposed prison.
Another jolly swim in the world of Fae and magical mythology. While I found this book to be a bit disjointed with the plotline jumping haphazardly at times as the heroine navigates the world she never knew existed, I did enjoy myself.
What made this book good was the complex but hard to hate hero. He was so cute with his Irish accent and surly attitude throughout the book. He was rarely known grin let alone laugh and when he did, the sound was described as rusty and misused. He had a lot of pride and he bore a lot of stress and responsibility on his shoulders. His brother was jovial and childish and the hero was left with the burden of constantly worrying about their sister.
The hero has always felt inadequate- starting with his childhood rejection from his father and carrying on through his adult years. It molded himself a very stern and emotionally closed up individual. The journey to get him to let down those walls was a long and hard one, just as the heroine. She was on one hand reluctant to accept her new life but at the same time, she felt responsible for her peoples state. She was at times childish herself and annoying as she had the habit of being a tad arrogant and a bit of a know it all. But she also had a good heart and a trusting nature that got her in trouble.
They had an intense and deep bond but one full of tension and mistrust. Also, I've never known a hero to actually stab a heroine before so that was new. Over all, I liked this book. It was a bit off for me at times and I can't say I really loved it but it was fun and had good characterization.
P.S. I would love to have Nightstalker be a hero in his own right because I loved him as a character.
June 18, 2010
This is my first read by this author. The pnr I normally read is mostly vamp/werewolf/shifter of some kind. Rarely have I come across pnr any with just Fae/fairies/druids/leprechaun, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I purchased this book on a whim sometime last year, but I picked it to read for a challenge. Well, Rose is half human, half pisky (kinda like a fairy) but she doesn't know about the pisky part. Niall is leprechaun. Rose job is as an accountant and comes to Cornwall because Niall's brother Michael, is in arrears over his establishment. As soon as they met there is something that sparks between them, but Niall tries to hide it. What follows is an interesting tale that eventually brings both Niall and Rose together and united to save her people, the piskys, from an evil druid who just happens to be Rose's father. Oh and did I mention there is a winged vampire/pisky (yes, wings. Like an angel. I found it strange but interesting) that was blood bonded to Rose's father? But then he becomes blood bonded to Niall's brother Michael. That part was kinda hot. lol
I can't quite explain why the story interested me, there wasn't much smex (low smex quotient)and what was there, was kinda of the 'glossy, pretty, kind'. Lots of flowery words with 'breast' and 'erection' tossed in for color. Nevertheless, I found myself continuing to read to try and figure out how it was going to be played out. It's not a bad story, and parts were kinda funny. I really liked the vamp/pisky, Nightshade and I wonder if he'll get a story. It's a nice likable story, different from what I normally would read but that's not a bad thing. I've already made plans to read the next book
I can't quite explain why the story interested me, there wasn't much smex (low smex quotient)and what was there, was kinda of the 'glossy, pretty, kind'. Lots of flowery words with 'breast' and 'erection' tossed in for color. Nevertheless, I found myself continuing to read to try and figure out how it was going to be played out. It's not a bad story, and parts were kinda funny. I really liked the vamp/pisky, Nightshade and I wonder if he'll get a story. It's a nice likable story, different from what I normally would read but that's not a bad thing. I've already made plans to read the next book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2009
I wasn't sure if I would like this book because it started slow. But once I got into the storyline and more into the fairy lore and picked up a feel for the lands of Cornwall and Ireland it became a interesting read. I liked how Niall and Rose became connected and how she was totally in the dark of her heritage. I could feel her frustration with Niall and his inability to explain things to her. I'd like to see what happens to Jacca and Michael with the establishment of the fairy troop in Cornwall again.
November 5, 2009
The Magic Knot is a fun take on Fae lore coupled with an intriguing twist on the tarot. Naill and Rose charmed me from the beginning and had me rooting for them all the way. Throw in a sexy nightstalker called Nightshade, Naill’s brother Michael (sure he’s god’s gift to women), and a thoroughly nasty villain—result: a satisfying brew of adventure, mystery, fantasy, and romance.
February 13, 2010
Was a bit sceptical about this book. I mean come on "Lepricorns" but obviously I was badly misrlead because I honeslty did enjoy this book. It was romantic but still had the suspense that I like to keep me turning those pages. Im lookign forward to the second book where the focus is shifted to Michael.
December 30, 2019
Light. Can't resist fantasy. Parts read like a first novel; would read more by this author. I almost didn't get the book because of the cover, as if there is no story or plot other than the "romance" of the naked people on the cover.
June 21, 2017
I picked this up because I was looking for a romance novel that had a strong plot + fantasy elements. Now that I'm done with 'The Magic Knot,' I can confirm that the novel is indeed strong in the plot and fantasy departments. As for the romance, your mileage may vary...
I loved Rose! Her voice of human reason amidst all the outlandish faery customs was funny and relatable. But what I liked most about her was that despite being the voice of reason, she wasn't entirely a wet blanket. I love characters that are aware of how bizarre their circumstances are, but don't lose their sense of wonder either. I laughed out loud when she said she took a class on dealing with difficult people and wanted to use those skills to deal with a murderous faery queen.
The plot and lore was good. I've been doing research on Irish mythology, and I was pleased to recognize certain terms/mythical creatures in the novel. The conflict was so high stakes too, it definitely kept me reading.
So if the protagonist, the plot, and the magic were great, why 3 stars? Niall.
I recognize that my thoughts on Niall are subjective. Some people may read this book and walk away feeling like Niall was a total hunk. That's fine. But I do want to explain why I didn't like him or the romance that blossomed between him and Rose.
Niall is a broody, secretive love interest who constantly lies to Rose "for her own good." His entire character is built on the fact that he can't comfortably trust other people. If his development led to him learning to trust others thanks to Rose, I wouldn't be so annoyed. But Niall lashes out and lies to Rose even after they've gotten together, usually because he 1) is irritated that Rose doesn't trust him about something or 2) he is trying to abuse Rose's trust to keep her in the dark about something important. Rose does get angry at him for this, and Niall does sometimes voice some regret for his actions, but his behavior is always forgiven with a reference to weird "male logic."
To be clear, if trust wasn't such a big theme for this book and the romance, I wouldn't place so much weight in it. But the issue of trust is woven so deeply into the plot and characters, I feel like Niall's lack of development in this area really undermines the romance.
I loved Rose! Her voice of human reason amidst all the outlandish faery customs was funny and relatable. But what I liked most about her was that despite being the voice of reason, she wasn't entirely a wet blanket. I love characters that are aware of how bizarre their circumstances are, but don't lose their sense of wonder either. I laughed out loud when she said she took a class on dealing with difficult people and wanted to use those skills to deal with a murderous faery queen.
The plot and lore was good. I've been doing research on Irish mythology, and I was pleased to recognize certain terms/mythical creatures in the novel. The conflict was so high stakes too, it definitely kept me reading.
So if the protagonist, the plot, and the magic were great, why 3 stars? Niall.
I recognize that my thoughts on Niall are subjective. Some people may read this book and walk away feeling like Niall was a total hunk. That's fine. But I do want to explain why I didn't like him or the romance that blossomed between him and Rose.
Niall is a broody, secretive love interest who constantly lies to Rose "for her own good." His entire character is built on the fact that he can't comfortably trust other people. If his development led to him learning to trust others thanks to Rose, I wouldn't be so annoyed. But Niall lashes out and lies to Rose even after they've gotten together, usually because he 1) is irritated that Rose doesn't trust him about something or 2) he is trying to abuse Rose's trust to keep her in the dark about something important. Rose does get angry at him for this, and Niall does sometimes voice some regret for his actions, but his behavior is always forgiven with a reference to weird "male logic."
To be clear, if trust wasn't such a big theme for this book and the romance, I wouldn't place so much weight in it. But the issue of trust is woven so deeply into the plot and characters, I feel like Niall's lack of development in this area really undermines the romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2023
Just the sort of magical, reverse harem, and fae romance I needed! It did feel rushed towards the end and could have easily bled into another book, but everything ended well without any loose ends. I also appreciate the involvement of many romantic interests for different reasons; there are different types of love and this beautifully laces them together.
July 12, 2018
From accountant to fairy queen
A fun, mysterious story of how a young woman is suddenly thrust into a world of magic and fairies. The characters are well defined and equally emotion in their own problems and pursuits.Loved it. Definitely will continue reading.
A fun, mysterious story of how a young woman is suddenly thrust into a world of magic and fairies. The characters are well defined and equally emotion in their own problems and pursuits.Loved it. Definitely will continue reading.
July 24, 2018
A woman searching for her father in the mystical depths of rural England, a man from a secret magical world that defies belief. Together they must survive the danger and magic of this dark fairytale world before they find happiness.
August 21, 2018
Great read
I found meself emerged in the story. Very enjoyable, escape from reality. Loved the characters and good plot. Read and see!
I found meself emerged in the story. Very enjoyable, escape from reality. Loved the characters and good plot. Read and see!
February 18, 2019
Good book. Would like to finish the series
July 31, 2021
what the epic fuck...omg sooo just soo bad
August 1, 2011
Red alert! Red alert! New author on the scene. Make that a terrific new author. Helen Scott Taylor’s debut book is a terrific read. It has everything from Irish twin brothers to the Queen of the Tuatha Dé Danaan to a greedy, evil father to the pisky who are on the brink of elimination. Oh, the love and the magic is pretty darned good too.
Sometimes in picking up a book I don’t read the back cover. It’s a book for review that I have to read, so I pick it up and I begin. When I took a look at the cover of this book, I thought it was an historical. I got a really nice surprise on the first page that threw the historical out the window and plopped paranormal down in its place. I was actually glad then and as I got further into the book that I hadn’t read the blurb. This book flows so naturally on its own, I didn’t need any help to begin with.
Niall O’Connor and his twin brother Michael are half Tuatha Dé Danaan and half leprechaun. Michael is the free spirited one who the ladies go for. Niall is the responsible one, currently making sure their Queen doesn’t harm his brother or their leprechaun sister, Ana, because he refused the Queen’s advances. That’s why they left Ireland and are now living in Cornwall. The further away the better to stay out of her clutches. Niall’s routine has hit a snag, though, when he delivers his quarterly payment to Tristan Jago for the spell to keep his siblings safe. A pisky has entered Cornwall and Tristan wants the fairy brought to him, so he blackmails Niall into doing so.
But the pisky Niall encounters is nothing like he expects. Rose Tremain is a financial investigator, she helps people in trouble, which is why she’s in Cornwall at the Elephant’s Nest. Though she does find problems with the way the books are handled and the owner has a beautiful face and a killer smile, it’s his handsome and dangerous-looking brother who fires up her libido.
When she snoops to get to the bottom of Michael’s financial fiasco, she finds Niall’s Magic Knot, which is so like her own. All it takes is a touch of those stones and she’s put in motion a connection to him that is so deep, so all consuming that it takes everything Niall’s got to keep her at arm’s length. He has to keep his family safe and getting involved with a pisky who doesn’t realize her powers and who has secrets just won’t work, especially when he finds out who her father is.
The pace really picks up when Niall and company head to Ireland to face the Queen for information to save Rose’s piskies. Once there and faced with danger and vindictiveness from every direction, their bond only grows stronger and Rose’s inner fairy and magic begin to emerge. What an adventure that was for all the characters involved. The Queen is one freaky goddess who’s right-hand man is the twins’ father, another story that takes on a life of its own. One of my favorites is Nightshade, a vampiric nightstalker from Rose’s childhood. This is the first book in Ms. Taylor’s new series, so I’m assuming we’ll get Michael’s story, but I hope she’ll also give us Nightshade’s book. He’s definitely a character who needs some love.
This is just one of those books that captivates you from the first page. It’s different, emotional, full of evil but with plenty of love to counteract those bad guys. Ms. Taylor is going on my autobuy list for sure.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
Sometimes in picking up a book I don’t read the back cover. It’s a book for review that I have to read, so I pick it up and I begin. When I took a look at the cover of this book, I thought it was an historical. I got a really nice surprise on the first page that threw the historical out the window and plopped paranormal down in its place. I was actually glad then and as I got further into the book that I hadn’t read the blurb. This book flows so naturally on its own, I didn’t need any help to begin with.
Niall O’Connor and his twin brother Michael are half Tuatha Dé Danaan and half leprechaun. Michael is the free spirited one who the ladies go for. Niall is the responsible one, currently making sure their Queen doesn’t harm his brother or their leprechaun sister, Ana, because he refused the Queen’s advances. That’s why they left Ireland and are now living in Cornwall. The further away the better to stay out of her clutches. Niall’s routine has hit a snag, though, when he delivers his quarterly payment to Tristan Jago for the spell to keep his siblings safe. A pisky has entered Cornwall and Tristan wants the fairy brought to him, so he blackmails Niall into doing so.
But the pisky Niall encounters is nothing like he expects. Rose Tremain is a financial investigator, she helps people in trouble, which is why she’s in Cornwall at the Elephant’s Nest. Though she does find problems with the way the books are handled and the owner has a beautiful face and a killer smile, it’s his handsome and dangerous-looking brother who fires up her libido.
When she snoops to get to the bottom of Michael’s financial fiasco, she finds Niall’s Magic Knot, which is so like her own. All it takes is a touch of those stones and she’s put in motion a connection to him that is so deep, so all consuming that it takes everything Niall’s got to keep her at arm’s length. He has to keep his family safe and getting involved with a pisky who doesn’t realize her powers and who has secrets just won’t work, especially when he finds out who her father is.
The pace really picks up when Niall and company head to Ireland to face the Queen for information to save Rose’s piskies. Once there and faced with danger and vindictiveness from every direction, their bond only grows stronger and Rose’s inner fairy and magic begin to emerge. What an adventure that was for all the characters involved. The Queen is one freaky goddess who’s right-hand man is the twins’ father, another story that takes on a life of its own. One of my favorites is Nightshade, a vampiric nightstalker from Rose’s childhood. This is the first book in Ms. Taylor’s new series, so I’m assuming we’ll get Michael’s story, but I hope she’ll also give us Nightshade’s book. He’s definitely a character who needs some love.
This is just one of those books that captivates you from the first page. It’s different, emotional, full of evil but with plenty of love to counteract those bad guys. Ms. Taylor is going on my autobuy list for sure.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
September 13, 2015
Rosenwyn Tremain kommt im Auftrag von Banken und Steuerbehörden nach Cornwall um die Buchhaltung von Michael O'Connor's Pub zu sichten. Aber sie hat auch private Gründe für ihren Ausflug, denn sie ist auf der Suche nach ihrem Vater, den sie als Kind zuletzt gesehen hat und an den sie kaum Erinnerungen hat. Beim Pub angekommen trifft sie fast der Schlag: Zum einen ist die Buchhaltung des Pubs ein einziger chaotischer Haufen und den erhofften PC sucht Rose vergebens; zum anderen ziehen der attraktive Besitzer Michael und sein Zwillingsbruder Niall sie wie magisch an.
Niall hat seine eigenen Geheimnisse zu hüten: Er gehört zum Hofstaat der irischen Feen und ist vor Jahren mit seinem Bruder und seiner Schwester nach Cornwell geflohen, da die irischen Feenkönigin Ciar ihn für sich auserkoren hat. Um seine Geschwister vor Ciars Zugriff zu schützen, bezahlt er seit Jahren den Druiden Trevor für einen Schutzzauber. Doch bei seinem letzten Besuch will Trevor mehr als Geld: Niall soll ihm auch eine der letzten Cornwell Feen bringen, die er ausfindig gemacht hat. Nur im Austausch will er den Schutzzauber erneuern.
Bald findet Niall heraus, dass Rose diese Fee ist, sie aber keine Ahnung von ihrer magischen Herkunft hat. Kann er wirklich Rose gegen die eigene Sicherheit eintauschen?
Nun, das war mal überraschend anders. Ich war nicht direkt im Buch drin und schon drauf und dran aufzugeben, doch dann löste sich der Knoten und ich war mittendrin.
HST hat hier eine interessante Geschichte erschaffen und verschiedene Aspekte hinzugefügt. Anders aber gut! Sie fängt gemächlich an und verwirrt zu Anfang mit vielen kleinen Teilen; doch diese werden nach und nach zu einem kompletten Ganzen verwoben und ergeben schon in der Mitte des Buches langsam ein klares Bild.
Die Charaktere sind vielschichtig und ich mochte die unscheinbare liebenswerte Rose sehr gern, die keine Ahnung hatte womit sie es hier zu tun bekommt. Der eher verschlossene Niall war am Anfang sehr undurchschaubar in seinen Motiven, während sein Bruder Michael eher der leichtsinnige und lustige Gegenpart war. Der Leser erfährt schon gleich zu Anfang, dass die Motive des Druiden Trevor alles andere als ehrenwert sind.
Die Dialoge waren gut geschrieben aber das Englische war etwas schwerer zu lesen und ging mir auch nicht ganz so flüssig von der Hand. Dennoch bin ich froh, dass ich die Geschichte bis zum Ende gelesen habe, denn spätestens ab dem letzten Drittel war ich so gefangen in der Handlung, dass ich es nicht mehr weglegen konnte und hat so die anfängliche Langeweile mehr als wett gemacht.
Niall hat seine eigenen Geheimnisse zu hüten: Er gehört zum Hofstaat der irischen Feen und ist vor Jahren mit seinem Bruder und seiner Schwester nach Cornwell geflohen, da die irischen Feenkönigin Ciar ihn für sich auserkoren hat. Um seine Geschwister vor Ciars Zugriff zu schützen, bezahlt er seit Jahren den Druiden Trevor für einen Schutzzauber. Doch bei seinem letzten Besuch will Trevor mehr als Geld: Niall soll ihm auch eine der letzten Cornwell Feen bringen, die er ausfindig gemacht hat. Nur im Austausch will er den Schutzzauber erneuern.
Bald findet Niall heraus, dass Rose diese Fee ist, sie aber keine Ahnung von ihrer magischen Herkunft hat. Kann er wirklich Rose gegen die eigene Sicherheit eintauschen?
Nun, das war mal überraschend anders. Ich war nicht direkt im Buch drin und schon drauf und dran aufzugeben, doch dann löste sich der Knoten und ich war mittendrin.
HST hat hier eine interessante Geschichte erschaffen und verschiedene Aspekte hinzugefügt. Anders aber gut! Sie fängt gemächlich an und verwirrt zu Anfang mit vielen kleinen Teilen; doch diese werden nach und nach zu einem kompletten Ganzen verwoben und ergeben schon in der Mitte des Buches langsam ein klares Bild.
Die Charaktere sind vielschichtig und ich mochte die unscheinbare liebenswerte Rose sehr gern, die keine Ahnung hatte womit sie es hier zu tun bekommt. Der eher verschlossene Niall war am Anfang sehr undurchschaubar in seinen Motiven, während sein Bruder Michael eher der leichtsinnige und lustige Gegenpart war. Der Leser erfährt schon gleich zu Anfang, dass die Motive des Druiden Trevor alles andere als ehrenwert sind.
Die Dialoge waren gut geschrieben aber das Englische war etwas schwerer zu lesen und ging mir auch nicht ganz so flüssig von der Hand. Dennoch bin ich froh, dass ich die Geschichte bis zum Ende gelesen habe, denn spätestens ab dem letzten Drittel war ich so gefangen in der Handlung, dass ich es nicht mehr weglegen konnte und hat so die anfängliche Langeweile mehr als wett gemacht.
June 23, 2013
I bought it on the Kindle offer of the day. I've now started reading it and am wondering why...
so now I've read it.
The idea of the story is lovely. I love a romance and I love a bit of fantasy, especially a fantasy world that intersects with our own. And I didn't think the writing totally sucked. So that is all o.
But. But. There has to be a but. First off, I didn't stop reading partly because I find that difficult, partly because I wanted to see how the story turned out. But also because I was having a little bet with myself (thankfully I lost). The bet was: will there be mention of "craic" (my money was on Michael for that). I was also so hoping for a "top o' the mornin' to ye" (in Ireland possibly). And I was sorely disappointed with the lack of "begorrahs".
Still, it is the first of a series (seriously, does EVERYTHING have to be a series these days? I can take the odd trilogy here or there if it's a good story and plenty happens but does every flippin' book I pick up these days have to be part of a series? I can take Sharpe - excellent writing - and Miss Marple or Wallander but ... arghhhh) so there is time for the "craic", "top o' the mornin' to ye" and "begorras" to turn up later.
So here we have probably identified my real problem with this book. Not the main character who was, frankly, a bit bland. Or even the other characters who were a bit formulaic. In a romance that I'm reading as a bit of a relief after finishing a uni course, I really don't mind that too much. What I really didn't like about this, and what will prevent me reading any more of the series is the fact that the Oirish characters speak in cliché Oirish of the type I have never heard from any of my Irish friends - from north or south of the border.
There was so much "'tis" and "ye" and "me" and so on. It is enough for a writer to mention once or twice that the character speaks with something ike a "soft Irish brogue" or "lilt" or something. I don't have to have them talking like something from a bad parody of Father Ted on every single page.
Without the "accents" in the dialogue, I would have given this 3 stars. As it is, 2 will be all it gets.
so now I've read it.
The idea of the story is lovely. I love a romance and I love a bit of fantasy, especially a fantasy world that intersects with our own. And I didn't think the writing totally sucked. So that is all o.
But. But. There has to be a but. First off, I didn't stop reading partly because I find that difficult, partly because I wanted to see how the story turned out. But also because I was having a little bet with myself (thankfully I lost). The bet was: will there be mention of "craic" (my money was on Michael for that). I was also so hoping for a "top o' the mornin' to ye" (in Ireland possibly). And I was sorely disappointed with the lack of "begorrahs".
Still, it is the first of a series (seriously, does EVERYTHING have to be a series these days? I can take the odd trilogy here or there if it's a good story and plenty happens but does every flippin' book I pick up these days have to be part of a series? I can take Sharpe - excellent writing - and Miss Marple or Wallander but ... arghhhh) so there is time for the "craic", "top o' the mornin' to ye" and "begorras" to turn up later.
So here we have probably identified my real problem with this book. Not the main character who was, frankly, a bit bland. Or even the other characters who were a bit formulaic. In a romance that I'm reading as a bit of a relief after finishing a uni course, I really don't mind that too much. What I really didn't like about this, and what will prevent me reading any more of the series is the fact that the Oirish characters speak in cliché Oirish of the type I have never heard from any of my Irish friends - from north or south of the border.
There was so much "'tis" and "ye" and "me" and so on. It is enough for a writer to mention once or twice that the character speaks with something ike a "soft Irish brogue" or "lilt" or something. I don't have to have them talking like something from a bad parody of Father Ted on every single page.
Without the "accents" in the dialogue, I would have given this 3 stars. As it is, 2 will be all it gets.
September 4, 2014
Three and a half stars. This story was pretty good but there were a few inconsistencies and annoying parts which kept it from a four star rating.
Anyone who knows anything about the fairy queen knows she is powerful and treacherous and you must watch every word around her. Whenever the guys in this book tried to warn the heroine about the fairy queen she just rolled her eyes like a teenager. When they warned her to be quiet in dangerous situations she kept talking and questioning them. She deserved the pain she got for her arrogance and stupidity. With her total arrogance and disreguard for her protectors' good advice she should have not have escaped the fairy realm. Luckily (?) the fairy queen Ciar (What is this name and how do you pronounce it?) was not very powerful or impressive so even a moron had a chance to escape her.
Our heroine was told she could release her pixie half either through sex or extreme pain. The sex doesn't work despite the realization that the hero and heroine love each other and are meant to be together. Then the heroine is nearly buned to death but the pain doesn't release her pixie powers either. This leaves sex with a third character as the only chance to release her powers and save her. Tacky and inconsistent. Why didn't the pain work? What is wrong with monogamy? Not exciting enough?
In the end both our hero and heroine suffer from random bouts of stupidity. I believe this was an effort to create drama. It merely served to tediously draw things out and make the characters annoying. Like the girl in a movie who can't run away without tripping or the man who tries to outrun a pursuing car instead of ducking to the side where the car can't follow. Please create a real obstacle to overcome not a pathetic weakness in the hero or heroine.
The secondary characters were better. I look forward to Michael and Nightshade's own books. Hopefully they won't suffer random bouts of stupidity. They didn't in this book.
Anyone who knows anything about the fairy queen knows she is powerful and treacherous and you must watch every word around her. Whenever the guys in this book tried to warn the heroine about the fairy queen she just rolled her eyes like a teenager. When they warned her to be quiet in dangerous situations she kept talking and questioning them. She deserved the pain she got for her arrogance and stupidity. With her total arrogance and disreguard for her protectors' good advice she should have not have escaped the fairy realm. Luckily (?) the fairy queen Ciar (What is this name and how do you pronounce it?) was not very powerful or impressive so even a moron had a chance to escape her.
Our heroine was told she could release her pixie half either through sex or extreme pain. The sex doesn't work despite the realization that the hero and heroine love each other and are meant to be together. Then the heroine is nearly buned to death but the pain doesn't release her pixie powers either. This leaves sex with a third character as the only chance to release her powers and save her. Tacky and inconsistent. Why didn't the pain work? What is wrong with monogamy? Not exciting enough?
In the end both our hero and heroine suffer from random bouts of stupidity. I believe this was an effort to create drama. It merely served to tediously draw things out and make the characters annoying. Like the girl in a movie who can't run away without tripping or the man who tries to outrun a pursuing car instead of ducking to the side where the car can't follow. Please create a real obstacle to overcome not a pathetic weakness in the hero or heroine.
The secondary characters were better. I look forward to Michael and Nightshade's own books. Hopefully they won't suffer random bouts of stupidity. They didn't in this book.
March 15, 2015
Die Idee von Elfen und einer Buchhalterin hat mich neugierig gemacht und ich wurde nicht enttäuscht!
Rose hat den Auftrag erhalten die Buchhaltung eines Inns in Cornwall zu überprüfen, da der Inn geradewegs auf die Insolvenz zusteuert. Bei ihrer Ankunft erwartet sie Mick, der sie versucht mit flirten von den Problemen abzulenken. Rose ist einiges gewöhnt und lässt die ungewöhnlich gutazssehenden Besitzer des Inns abblitzen. Sein Bruder Niall ist weniger charmant und versucht sie mehr mit der gewohnten Unhöflichkeit wieder los zu werden. Er kann es sich nicht leisten, dass jemand in seinen Angelegenheiten gerumschnüffelt. Rose wittert unlautere Geschäfte und wird erst recht neugierig.
Aber Niall und Mick sind Elfen aus Irland. Geflüchtet, nachdem Niall die Avancen der Königin zurückgewiesen hat. Das fand diese weniger lustig und seitdem bezahlt Niall einen Druiden seinen Bruder Mick und seine Halbschwester Ann zu schützen. Der Druide und sein Lebensgefährt, ein Nachtelf mit vampiristischen Zügen haben aber andere Pläne und manipulieren Niall.
Der Anfang ist wirklich gut - Rose ist die kalte, kalkulierende Buchhalterin. Sogar ein wenig öde. Aber dann erfährt sie von den Elfen. Dass sie durch Zufall Nialls Magische Knoten berührt und sich damit mit ihm auf einer tieferen Ebene verbindet... naja, ab da wird es weniger spannend vom Plot her. Ab da ist es mehr oder weniger vorhersehbar - sogar, dass Nialls und Micks Vater letztendlich Niall unterstützt überrascht nicht.
Das ist schade - denn das Potential für eine wirklich außergewöhnliche Geschichte ist da. Sie verliert sich dann nur leider in dem schon x-Mal gelesenen.
Trotzdem eine solide und wenig kitschige Elfengeschichte.
Rose hat den Auftrag erhalten die Buchhaltung eines Inns in Cornwall zu überprüfen, da der Inn geradewegs auf die Insolvenz zusteuert. Bei ihrer Ankunft erwartet sie Mick, der sie versucht mit flirten von den Problemen abzulenken. Rose ist einiges gewöhnt und lässt die ungewöhnlich gutazssehenden Besitzer des Inns abblitzen. Sein Bruder Niall ist weniger charmant und versucht sie mehr mit der gewohnten Unhöflichkeit wieder los zu werden. Er kann es sich nicht leisten, dass jemand in seinen Angelegenheiten gerumschnüffelt. Rose wittert unlautere Geschäfte und wird erst recht neugierig.
Aber Niall und Mick sind Elfen aus Irland. Geflüchtet, nachdem Niall die Avancen der Königin zurückgewiesen hat. Das fand diese weniger lustig und seitdem bezahlt Niall einen Druiden seinen Bruder Mick und seine Halbschwester Ann zu schützen. Der Druide und sein Lebensgefährt, ein Nachtelf mit vampiristischen Zügen haben aber andere Pläne und manipulieren Niall.
Der Anfang ist wirklich gut - Rose ist die kalte, kalkulierende Buchhalterin. Sogar ein wenig öde. Aber dann erfährt sie von den Elfen. Dass sie durch Zufall Nialls Magische Knoten berührt und sich damit mit ihm auf einer tieferen Ebene verbindet... naja, ab da wird es weniger spannend vom Plot her. Ab da ist es mehr oder weniger vorhersehbar - sogar, dass Nialls und Micks Vater letztendlich Niall unterstützt überrascht nicht.
Das ist schade - denn das Potential für eine wirklich außergewöhnliche Geschichte ist da. Sie verliert sich dann nur leider in dem schon x-Mal gelesenen.
Trotzdem eine solide und wenig kitschige Elfengeschichte.
October 3, 2013
I grabbed this book through a swap on a whim, without really reading much about it except the Irish of it, so I wasn't sure what to expect, or if it would be good. I was pleasantly surprised.
The book is well written, and somewhat believable in the mixing of human life with folklore and legends in the tales of pixies and fairies, and even leprechauns in the book. It makes for a good read, and for me it was a quick read, which is what I was looking for at the moment I sat down with this book.
We are introduced to Naill and his twin Michael O'Conner. Very Irish, very traditional and steeped in legend and lore. They are half fairy we learn later. They both talk with an Irish accent and speech pattern that feels right in this book. It's not too heavy and I don't think the characters would have been as believable without it. Well done on the author's parts because the accent and speech pattern can easily overwhelm a book.
The trouble comes in the form of Rose Tremain, who thinks she is a human woman about a normal job. All is not as it would seem. Through out the book, we learn of the truth of Rose's mother, and the betrayal of her father and what he really is, and the truth as to what she is and what her birthright is.
It's a clever and fun story, and I enjoyed it. It stands quite well on its own, and I feel complete having read it. Only just realized this is a series and it continues. Not sure if I will search it out or not, but I have a number of books in my to-read pile right now, maybe later.
The book is well written, and somewhat believable in the mixing of human life with folklore and legends in the tales of pixies and fairies, and even leprechauns in the book. It makes for a good read, and for me it was a quick read, which is what I was looking for at the moment I sat down with this book.
We are introduced to Naill and his twin Michael O'Conner. Very Irish, very traditional and steeped in legend and lore. They are half fairy we learn later. They both talk with an Irish accent and speech pattern that feels right in this book. It's not too heavy and I don't think the characters would have been as believable without it. Well done on the author's parts because the accent and speech pattern can easily overwhelm a book.
The trouble comes in the form of Rose Tremain, who thinks she is a human woman about a normal job. All is not as it would seem. Through out the book, we learn of the truth of Rose's mother, and the betrayal of her father and what he really is, and the truth as to what she is and what her birthright is.
It's a clever and fun story, and I enjoyed it. It stands quite well on its own, and I feel complete having read it. Only just realized this is a series and it continues. Not sure if I will search it out or not, but I have a number of books in my to-read pile right now, maybe later.
August 6, 2012
I enjoyed this book. An interesting story, well-written characters and a creative combining of the "real" and paranormal worlds.
Rosenwyn is a no-nonsense bankruptcy accountant who's been sent to investigate the financial problems with a pub in Cornwall. This is despite her mother's insistence that Rose NEVER, ever set foot there.
Once there, Rose meets the owner of the pub, Michael, and his twin brother Niall, both of whom seem to have something to hide. Rose is drawn to Niall, but determined to do her job quickly, because she has another reason for coming to Cornwall - she wants to find her father, who she's never known.
Rose's relationship with her mother has always been difficult, and she's certain she must be like her father, and is convinced if she can find him she will finally be accepted and loved for who she is.
Unfortunately, Rose's happy picture isn't going to happen. She quickly discovers that she's half fairy, and forced to play the dangerous games that the fairies take for granted. Completely ill-equipped for the intrigues and danger she's facing, Rose is forced to trust Niall, despite being infuriated and attracted to him at the same time.
The story moves along quickly, with lots of ups and downs and plenty of excitement. It's a fast, easy read and I would recommend it to fans of paranormal fiction.
Rosenwyn is a no-nonsense bankruptcy accountant who's been sent to investigate the financial problems with a pub in Cornwall. This is despite her mother's insistence that Rose NEVER, ever set foot there.
Once there, Rose meets the owner of the pub, Michael, and his twin brother Niall, both of whom seem to have something to hide. Rose is drawn to Niall, but determined to do her job quickly, because she has another reason for coming to Cornwall - she wants to find her father, who she's never known.
Rose's relationship with her mother has always been difficult, and she's certain she must be like her father, and is convinced if she can find him she will finally be accepted and loved for who she is.
Unfortunately, Rose's happy picture isn't going to happen. She quickly discovers that she's half fairy, and forced to play the dangerous games that the fairies take for granted. Completely ill-equipped for the intrigues and danger she's facing, Rose is forced to trust Niall, despite being infuriated and attracted to him at the same time.
The story moves along quickly, with lots of ups and downs and plenty of excitement. It's a fast, easy read and I would recommend it to fans of paranormal fiction.
January 12, 2014
Fairys, Leprechauns and Druids oh my!
An Interesting story. Rose doesn't know she is a Fairy Queen, her mother took her away from Cornwall when she was young and raised her as human. Niall is half Fairy half Leprechaun and fled Ireland with his twin brother and his sister, to save them from the wrath of the Queen of his fairy troop.
Rose shows up in Cornwall, as an everyday accountant, not realizing she has set in motion a show down with her evil Druid father.
The story is well crafted and interesting, if not always well executed. The push/pull of the romance between Rose and Niall unfolds nicely. The author tires to write an Irish lilt into the words, but I found it distracting and it drew my focus from the story.
It was an enjoyable read and I will likely read more by this author.
An Interesting story. Rose doesn't know she is a Fairy Queen, her mother took her away from Cornwall when she was young and raised her as human. Niall is half Fairy half Leprechaun and fled Ireland with his twin brother and his sister, to save them from the wrath of the Queen of his fairy troop.
Rose shows up in Cornwall, as an everyday accountant, not realizing she has set in motion a show down with her evil Druid father.
The story is well crafted and interesting, if not always well executed. The push/pull of the romance between Rose and Niall unfolds nicely. The author tires to write an Irish lilt into the words, but I found it distracting and it drew my focus from the story.
It was an enjoyable read and I will likely read more by this author.
February 23, 2014
Taylor’s The Magic Knot follows Rose’s journey from accountant to Cornish pisky queen, with a host of supporting characters, such as the fae O’Connor brothers and The Queen of Nightmares. The book description pretty much informs the reader what to expect from the entire story, without leaving much room for surprise. Major plot points just happened without much buildup and made for some awkward transitions. Rose’s use of the tarot cards, and the description of each card, was interesting. The characters and storyline have so much potential, and I think with some development this book would have been far more entertaining.
March 31, 2016
I wanted to like this more than I did. The hero could have been straight from a Pamela Hartshorne novel (although brooding Cornishman lite) and the set up was, on the face of it, a decent one. But it just seemed a bit too ... complex. The nastiness was a bit too nasty, the family dynamics a bit too yucky, and the action all over the place and needing unlikely transport options. I am not sure I really bought into the romance and the (quite frankly) sluttishness of one of the main male characters is a bit challenging for this particular reader. I like my chaps in books to keep it in their trousers unless the occasion is a special one .....
September 12, 2016
Rose comes to Cornwall to find her father, and discovers she is the Cornish pisky queen who must rescue her troop with the help of Niall, an Irish fairy.
Delving into more of the Irish/British side of mythology, the fairy romances are always unique. I found this one to be a little tedious however. The worldbuilding felt forced and confusing, and the characters fell a little flat. The pacing was definitely different, with certain revelations and plot points occurring much earlier than I thought they would.
Delving into more of the Irish/British side of mythology, the fairy romances are always unique. I found this one to be a little tedious however. The worldbuilding felt forced and confusing, and the characters fell a little flat. The pacing was definitely different, with certain revelations and plot points occurring much earlier than I thought they would.
August 13, 2016
it's a good story. I love the irish mythology, and the story delves into topics that aren't often explored.
But... there are typos galore, and some of them are very disruptive. Tonight is almost always "to night", the "d" at the end of certain contractions are gone. That can be understood, but sometimes it required rereading to understand.
I'll still read the series, because I did like it a lot, but the grammatical mistakes really did distract from a good story.
But... there are typos galore, and some of them are very disruptive. Tonight is almost always "to night", the "d" at the end of certain contractions are gone. That can be understood, but sometimes it required rereading to understand.
I'll still read the series, because I did like it a lot, but the grammatical mistakes really did distract from a good story.
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