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The Witchstone Amulet
Protect it at all costs.
That’s what rugby player Hunter Best’s mother told him before she died. But when Hunter surprises an intruder in his Chicago apartment, he discovers her amulet stolen. Hunter pursues the thief—all the way through a strange vortex. He wakes in a bizarre and violent world, a benighted realm on the threshold of civil war.
The queen has become a ruthless tyrant, punishing any who oppose her, weakening the kingdom’s defenses against the brutal Henerans. To survive, Hunter must depend on the man who robbed him, a handsome former spy named Dax, now a leader of the resistance that believes the queen is an imposter—a Heneran disguised by magic… who also looks identical to Hunter’s mother.
There’s no love lost between Hunter and Dax, and even if Hunter grudgingly agrees with the resistance, he just wants to reclaim his property and go home. But he might be the only one who can oppose the queen and end her reign of terror.
That’s what rugby player Hunter Best’s mother told him before she died. But when Hunter surprises an intruder in his Chicago apartment, he discovers her amulet stolen. Hunter pursues the thief—all the way through a strange vortex. He wakes in a bizarre and violent world, a benighted realm on the threshold of civil war.
The queen has become a ruthless tyrant, punishing any who oppose her, weakening the kingdom’s defenses against the brutal Henerans. To survive, Hunter must depend on the man who robbed him, a handsome former spy named Dax, now a leader of the resistance that believes the queen is an imposter—a Heneran disguised by magic… who also looks identical to Hunter’s mother.
There’s no love lost between Hunter and Dax, and even if Hunter grudgingly agrees with the resistance, he just wants to reclaim his property and go home. But he might be the only one who can oppose the queen and end her reign of terror.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2019
39 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 13, 2019
**3.5 stars**
Still on my discovery of the MM fantasy genre. I’m warming up to this trope and this book is a good addition to my reading belt.
On his way home, Hunter surprises in his apartment a thief who has just stolen his dead mother’s broach. Pursuing him to get his possession back, he ends up in a “vortex” and then in a parallel medieval-type world with a kingdom, some strange creatures, some geo-political tensions and a rebellion brewing.
Without any way to come back to his “world”, Hunter has to grab his mind, adapts fast and rely on his “thief”, aka Dax, who, in this world, is a member of the rebellion and a force to reckon with, not a bad thing as Dax keeps saving and saving Hunter’s life.
The world building is quite intriguing, It’s fast-paced, and engaging enough that I kept turning the pages to get to the outcome. I knew there would be no romance but there was enough feels between our two MCs to satisfy me and anyway, the story was so engaging that this story entertained me well.
For fan of fantasy gay fiction, this is a good one.
ARC of “The Witchstone Amulet” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Still on my discovery of the MM fantasy genre. I’m warming up to this trope and this book is a good addition to my reading belt.
On his way home, Hunter surprises in his apartment a thief who has just stolen his dead mother’s broach. Pursuing him to get his possession back, he ends up in a “vortex” and then in a parallel medieval-type world with a kingdom, some strange creatures, some geo-political tensions and a rebellion brewing.
Without any way to come back to his “world”, Hunter has to grab his mind, adapts fast and rely on his “thief”, aka Dax, who, in this world, is a member of the rebellion and a force to reckon with, not a bad thing as Dax keeps saving and saving Hunter’s life.
The world building is quite intriguing, It’s fast-paced, and engaging enough that I kept turning the pages to get to the outcome. I knew there would be no romance but there was enough feels between our two MCs to satisfy me and anyway, the story was so engaging that this story entertained me well.
For fan of fantasy gay fiction, this is a good one.
ARC of “The Witchstone Amulet” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2019
Protect it at all costs.
That’s what rugby player Hunter Best’s mother told him before she died. But when Hunter surprises an intruder in his Chicago apartment, he discovers her amulet stolen. Hunter pursues the thief—all the way through a strange vortex. He wakes in a bizarre and violent world, a benighted realm on the threshold of civil war.
The queen has become a ruthless tyrant, punishing any who oppose her, weakening the kingdom’s defenses against the brutal Henerans. To survive, Hunter must depend on the man who robbed him, a handsome former spy named Dax, now a leader of the resistance that believes the queen is an imposter—a Heneran disguised by magic… who also looks identical to Hunter’s mother.
There’s no love lost between Hunter and Dax, and even if Hunter grudgingly agrees with the resistance, he just wants to reclaim his property and go home. But he might be the only one who can oppose the queen and end her reign of terror.
Review:
Dear Mason Thomas,
I enjoyed your previous books well enough to preorder this story. For the most part I am really happy that I did.
Blurb tells you that what we have here is the kind of a "time travel "story but also " travel to alternate world/dimension: what say you" story. I say that this was also kind of a time travel story for me because the society in the world where Hunter ends up is loosely based on medieval times ( very loosely - no direct associations, I mostly based my observation on Hunter thinking that the society did not seem to evolve past medieval and some things that existed and did not exist in that world.
Warning to romance readers, while the story obviously has romantic elements, romance took a decidedly second seat for me, however I was still pleased with it. I don't know how it will work with other readers though. To me it was fantasy/adventure and during the course of that adventure the men developed the attraction to each other. It was very understated but to me it worked. Sometimes I am reading the adventure story and at the end boom the guys decide that they cannot live without each other. In this book I could understand why Hunter and Dax decide to stay together . Hopefully readers who will end reading this one will do so as well.
But let's talk about adventure. I thought the blurb was written very well - it teases a lot without revealing a lot. Hunter had a jewelry item ( or so he thought) left to him by his mother and she asked him to keep it safe. Alas, one day after rugby match Hunter comes to his house ( with the potential date no less) and finds everything completely messed up and amulet stolen. He figures out who did steal it ( which made perfect sense to me) and runs after the thief. The thief is fast enough to jump into something which turns out to be dimension traveling portal and Hunter, being upset that he could not keep promise he gave his mother before he died jumps in.
Probably not the wisest course of action which he immediately regrets, but here Hunter is in the new world and completely disoriented. I have to say that I am not new to "travel to another world" trope and I really liked what the author did with Hunter's reactions to the place. I liked that for quite some time ( maybe not all that much time wise, but certainly quite a bit page space wise) Hunter is quite disoriented and let's not mince words - traumatized.
I found it completely believable. I don't like when the character from modern times travels to another time/place and right away or almost right away everything is great and the character is not out of place in their new home at all. In fact they are the most heroic people ever, the best in the fights and save the residents of their new home from whatever evil they had been battling.
Of course eventually Hunter gets to show some heroics, but to me what he did felt organic to who he was and in a way was based on skills set he already had and plus he built on something he managed to learn with the help of some of his new compatriots and it is not like
Here are some of his initial reactions and as I said most of those reactions understandably did not fade right away.
"He couldn’t breathe. His heart thumped like thunder and the world around him tilted dizzily. Holy shit, I’m having a psychotic breakdown. It was the only explanation. Creatures like this simply didn’t exist. Which meant he had to be lost in some wild hallucination. But did people actually having a psychotic break ever think that’s what was happening to them?"
"The cold weight of conviction landed in his gut. His logic fought against it, trying to cling to any shred of rationality, anything that might explain this in some other way. But he had nothing. He opened his mouth and somehow managed to force words from his constricted throat. “How do I get home?” The thief turned and put his attention on the contents of a crate. “You don’t.” “Excuse me?’”"
"Hunter’s jaw clenched. That man was his only hope of finding answers. And Hunter wanted his mom’s broach back. During a match, Hunter was always driven by instinct. Get to the ball, then improvise. Do what was needed to defend the line. Figure out what to do next later. It was a strategy that always served him well. But on the pitch, he understood the rules. He knew how things were supposed to work. Here, he had no idea how any of this was even possible, and he didn’t know anything about the creatures or what they were capable of."
Blurb talks about it, so I felt comfortable enough leaving the quote above in - Hunter and Dax are forced to have a lot of interaction right after Hunter comes through the portal. Dax does not abandon Hunter to the fighting with the unknown creatures. I speculated that it was because he felt a sense of responsibility because his visit to Hunter's apartment started the chain of events which led to Hunter being where he was now.
However I didn't know for sure - we are in the third person limited POV and only in Hunter's head so we view Jax's words and actions through Hunter's eyes only. Actually, scratch that - in the very beginning of the book we are given couple of sentences from Hunter's potential date after rugby's match and I thought we slipped in his POV for a little bit. It made no sense to me and I just chalked it up to the editing .
Anyway, what I liked about Dax and Hunter's initial interactions is that we did not see the insta love happening. As I said before, I thought the attraction was gradual and understated and we saw the signs occasionally, but there was nothing like - "you are so hot" welcome to my world or something like that. At least to my eyes, Dax for a long time treated Hunter as a liability and a liability only. Liability that he doesn't abandon, but to me it was once again very believable, because Hunter *was* a liability for him.
I thought the pacing of the story was very well done for the most part. The only time when I thought pacing was off was when Hunter finally gets to do some heroics closer to the end of the book. He engages in a deadly and dangerous mission and I thought him getting to where he needed to be took * a very long time* page space wise. I understand I think what the author was trying to do. I think he was trying to keep a balance between Hunter not becoming super powerful suddenly and overcome very danger as it comes along, but during those three or four chapters I became a little bored couple of times. Otherwise I was very engaged with the narrative.
I also liked that the atmosphere was pretty dark, which once again made sense based on the world and what was happening in that world, but ended hopefully and quite happily, but not sugary.
Grade : B/B+
That’s what rugby player Hunter Best’s mother told him before she died. But when Hunter surprises an intruder in his Chicago apartment, he discovers her amulet stolen. Hunter pursues the thief—all the way through a strange vortex. He wakes in a bizarre and violent world, a benighted realm on the threshold of civil war.
The queen has become a ruthless tyrant, punishing any who oppose her, weakening the kingdom’s defenses against the brutal Henerans. To survive, Hunter must depend on the man who robbed him, a handsome former spy named Dax, now a leader of the resistance that believes the queen is an imposter—a Heneran disguised by magic… who also looks identical to Hunter’s mother.
There’s no love lost between Hunter and Dax, and even if Hunter grudgingly agrees with the resistance, he just wants to reclaim his property and go home. But he might be the only one who can oppose the queen and end her reign of terror.
Review:
Dear Mason Thomas,
I enjoyed your previous books well enough to preorder this story. For the most part I am really happy that I did.
Blurb tells you that what we have here is the kind of a "time travel "story but also " travel to alternate world/dimension: what say you" story. I say that this was also kind of a time travel story for me because the society in the world where Hunter ends up is loosely based on medieval times ( very loosely - no direct associations, I mostly based my observation on Hunter thinking that the society did not seem to evolve past medieval and some things that existed and did not exist in that world.
Warning to romance readers, while the story obviously has romantic elements, romance took a decidedly second seat for me, however I was still pleased with it. I don't know how it will work with other readers though. To me it was fantasy/adventure and during the course of that adventure the men developed the attraction to each other. It was very understated but to me it worked. Sometimes I am reading the adventure story and at the end boom the guys decide that they cannot live without each other. In this book I could understand why Hunter and Dax decide to stay together . Hopefully readers who will end reading this one will do so as well.
But let's talk about adventure. I thought the blurb was written very well - it teases a lot without revealing a lot. Hunter had a jewelry item ( or so he thought) left to him by his mother and she asked him to keep it safe. Alas, one day after rugby match Hunter comes to his house ( with the potential date no less) and finds everything completely messed up and amulet stolen. He figures out who did steal it ( which made perfect sense to me) and runs after the thief. The thief is fast enough to jump into something which turns out to be dimension traveling portal and Hunter, being upset that he could not keep promise he gave his mother before he died jumps in.
Probably not the wisest course of action which he immediately regrets, but here Hunter is in the new world and completely disoriented. I have to say that I am not new to "travel to another world" trope and I really liked what the author did with Hunter's reactions to the place. I liked that for quite some time ( maybe not all that much time wise, but certainly quite a bit page space wise) Hunter is quite disoriented and let's not mince words - traumatized.
I found it completely believable. I don't like when the character from modern times travels to another time/place and right away or almost right away everything is great and the character is not out of place in their new home at all. In fact they are the most heroic people ever, the best in the fights and save the residents of their new home from whatever evil they had been battling.
Of course eventually Hunter gets to show some heroics, but to me what he did felt organic to who he was and in a way was based on skills set he already had and plus he built on something he managed to learn with the help of some of his new compatriots and it is not like
Here are some of his initial reactions and as I said most of those reactions understandably did not fade right away.
"He couldn’t breathe. His heart thumped like thunder and the world around him tilted dizzily. Holy shit, I’m having a psychotic breakdown. It was the only explanation. Creatures like this simply didn’t exist. Which meant he had to be lost in some wild hallucination. But did people actually having a psychotic break ever think that’s what was happening to them?"
"The cold weight of conviction landed in his gut. His logic fought against it, trying to cling to any shred of rationality, anything that might explain this in some other way. But he had nothing. He opened his mouth and somehow managed to force words from his constricted throat. “How do I get home?” The thief turned and put his attention on the contents of a crate. “You don’t.” “Excuse me?’”"
"Hunter’s jaw clenched. That man was his only hope of finding answers. And Hunter wanted his mom’s broach back. During a match, Hunter was always driven by instinct. Get to the ball, then improvise. Do what was needed to defend the line. Figure out what to do next later. It was a strategy that always served him well. But on the pitch, he understood the rules. He knew how things were supposed to work. Here, he had no idea how any of this was even possible, and he didn’t know anything about the creatures or what they were capable of."
Blurb talks about it, so I felt comfortable enough leaving the quote above in - Hunter and Dax are forced to have a lot of interaction right after Hunter comes through the portal. Dax does not abandon Hunter to the fighting with the unknown creatures. I speculated that it was because he felt a sense of responsibility because his visit to Hunter's apartment started the chain of events which led to Hunter being where he was now.
However I didn't know for sure - we are in the third person limited POV and only in Hunter's head so we view Jax's words and actions through Hunter's eyes only. Actually, scratch that - in the very beginning of the book we are given couple of sentences from Hunter's potential date after rugby's match and I thought we slipped in his POV for a little bit. It made no sense to me and I just chalked it up to the editing .
Anyway, what I liked about Dax and Hunter's initial interactions is that we did not see the insta love happening. As I said before, I thought the attraction was gradual and understated and we saw the signs occasionally, but there was nothing like - "you are so hot" welcome to my world or something like that. At least to my eyes, Dax for a long time treated Hunter as a liability and a liability only. Liability that he doesn't abandon, but to me it was once again very believable, because Hunter *was* a liability for him.
I thought the pacing of the story was very well done for the most part. The only time when I thought pacing was off was when Hunter finally gets to do some heroics closer to the end of the book. He engages in a deadly and dangerous mission and I thought him getting to where he needed to be took * a very long time* page space wise. I understand I think what the author was trying to do. I think he was trying to keep a balance between Hunter not becoming super powerful suddenly and overcome very danger as it comes along, but during those three or four chapters I became a little bored couple of times. Otherwise I was very engaged with the narrative.
I also liked that the atmosphere was pretty dark, which once again made sense based on the world and what was happening in that world, but ended hopefully and quite happily, but not sugary.
Grade : B/B+
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2019
3.5 stars
First of all, as a romance reader, I’m slightly reluctant to call this fantasy romance. Mainly because the focus of The Witchstone Amulet is how Hunter Best being transported into a different world – then involves in a rebellion’s group and their attempt to overthrow a tyrant queen.
Yes, there’s a love interest for Hunter, a former spy who is responsible for Hunter being in this new world in the first place, but the romantic development is rather slow and not exactly the center piece of the book.
In my humble opinion…
Having said so – I think Mason Thomas delivered another exciting fantasy-adventure with this book. I enjoyed Thomas’ first two books, Lord Mouse and The Shadow Mark, so I jumped the chance to request the advance copy of this one.
The Witchstone Amulet is written solely from Hunter’s perspective. I must say that as someone who wakes up in a different world, with magic and violent war, Hunter is quite well-adjusted! Sure, Hunter is quickly involved because he doesn’t really have a chance. He doesn’t have a way to return to our world without the rebellion winning the war. However, Hunter lives thirty years in our human world, and he doesn’t miss all the Internet, and well, good plumbing and toilet paper?! *laugh*.
I was immersed into the story early on especially because it was easy for me to root for Hunter. Even when the rebellion group doesn’t act kindly towards Hunter – they don’t trust him – and he has questions upon questions, but Hunter manages to take one step at a time and gains his place. He doesn’t back down… and I admired him for it.
I’m rather miffed with the ending though – I feel like there are loose threads here that don’t feel like closure. And I’m not sure about Hunter’s choice by the end of the book. It’s like he doesn’t think too much about it and I wonder if Hunter will end up regretting his choice.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
First of all, as a romance reader, I’m slightly reluctant to call this fantasy romance. Mainly because the focus of The Witchstone Amulet is how Hunter Best being transported into a different world – then involves in a rebellion’s group and their attempt to overthrow a tyrant queen.
Yes, there’s a love interest for Hunter, a former spy who is responsible for Hunter being in this new world in the first place, but the romantic development is rather slow and not exactly the center piece of the book.
In my humble opinion…
Having said so – I think Mason Thomas delivered another exciting fantasy-adventure with this book. I enjoyed Thomas’ first two books, Lord Mouse and The Shadow Mark, so I jumped the chance to request the advance copy of this one.
The Witchstone Amulet is written solely from Hunter’s perspective. I must say that as someone who wakes up in a different world, with magic and violent war, Hunter is quite well-adjusted! Sure, Hunter is quickly involved because he doesn’t really have a chance. He doesn’t have a way to return to our world without the rebellion winning the war. However, Hunter lives thirty years in our human world, and he doesn’t miss all the Internet, and well, good plumbing and toilet paper?! *laugh*.
I was immersed into the story early on especially because it was easy for me to root for Hunter. Even when the rebellion group doesn’t act kindly towards Hunter – they don’t trust him – and he has questions upon questions, but Hunter manages to take one step at a time and gains his place. He doesn’t back down… and I admired him for it.
I’m rather miffed with the ending though – I feel like there are loose threads here that don’t feel like closure. And I’m not sure about Hunter’s choice by the end of the book. It’s like he doesn’t think too much about it and I wonder if Hunter will end up regretting his choice.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
September 3, 2019
3.5 stars
When you begin a book with the expectation that you're really going to like it, disappointment can really throw you for a loop. This isn't going to be a well constructed, let alone thorough, review as I feel a bit melancholic as I try to gather my thoughts.
I liked the book, but I did not love it. It was a chore to get through the first half of the book, even though in retrospect the storyline was quite clever. The author couldn't quite add that easily flowing, thrilling edge to his prose that should make my heart beat speed up and move me to the edge of my seat. As far as "bones" go it was, like Lord Mouse and The Shadow Mark, damn near perfect with excellent editing. But that magical "something" was missing for me, as it was with the two aforementioned books.
In summary, I'm just going to have to admit this author just isn't my cuppa. And I should also mention that I struggled with the numeric rating, whether to pop it up or down. The author is quite good, so I think maybe it's a case of, "it's me, it's not you".
When you begin a book with the expectation that you're really going to like it, disappointment can really throw you for a loop. This isn't going to be a well constructed, let alone thorough, review as I feel a bit melancholic as I try to gather my thoughts.
I liked the book, but I did not love it. It was a chore to get through the first half of the book, even though in retrospect the storyline was quite clever. The author couldn't quite add that easily flowing, thrilling edge to his prose that should make my heart beat speed up and move me to the edge of my seat. As far as "bones" go it was, like Lord Mouse and The Shadow Mark, damn near perfect with excellent editing. But that magical "something" was missing for me, as it was with the two aforementioned books.
In summary, I'm just going to have to admit this author just isn't my cuppa. And I should also mention that I struggled with the numeric rating, whether to pop it up or down. The author is quite good, so I think maybe it's a case of, "it's me, it's not you".
August 27, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
The Witchstone Amulet is an incredibly engaging and highly exciting fantasy that kept me drawn in from the very start. The book begins in our contemporary world and we meet Hunter in the aftermath of one of his rugby games. Thomas does a really nice job here of giving us a sense of Hunter, a strong and confident man who has always worked to fit in as a gay athlete and who thrives as part of a group and a team. Suddenly, Hunter is thrust into this alternate world where he is totally out of his element and can barely fend for himself. The story is told from Hunter’s POV and it gives us a nice window into this world from his perspective. As Hunter learns abou the kingdom, the people, the war, and the queen, we as readers do as well, so he is a great lens for the story as he is also an outsider. But at the same time, Hunter has a connection to what is happening that is slowly revealed and it adds a really interesting dynamic to the story.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
The Witchstone Amulet is an incredibly engaging and highly exciting fantasy that kept me drawn in from the very start. The book begins in our contemporary world and we meet Hunter in the aftermath of one of his rugby games. Thomas does a really nice job here of giving us a sense of Hunter, a strong and confident man who has always worked to fit in as a gay athlete and who thrives as part of a group and a team. Suddenly, Hunter is thrust into this alternate world where he is totally out of his element and can barely fend for himself. The story is told from Hunter’s POV and it gives us a nice window into this world from his perspective. As Hunter learns abou the kingdom, the people, the war, and the queen, we as readers do as well, so he is a great lens for the story as he is also an outsider. But at the same time, Hunter has a connection to what is happening that is slowly revealed and it adds a really interesting dynamic to the story.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
September 24, 2023
The story was interesting, but the last chapters felt rushed. I really wanted to know what happened in Hunter's world, we know that time flows differently there(faster). We also didn't see the wedding nor if he will be the future king or if his father will have other successors. Also, we know he has now the mission to find a common ground with their enemies and then peace, but we saw nothing of that, and let's not forget that the evil woman was pregnant with the king's child when she escaped. So is he gonna have a brother or sister? Like I said, felt trushed but still worth 4 stars.
August 13, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I've read the other two the author has published, and he just keeps delivering fun fantasy stories. I feel like I'm reading my D&D campaign (but with more romance!). I really liked the main characters and I love stories where you jump in and learn the world with the main character. It really makes Hunter relatable in his confusion. The romance between Dax and Hunter just built really well and I found myself pouting at a character relationship reveal (won't spoil it) that threw a wrench in my overactive imagination's plans for the characters. I loved the world building and the struggle of the characters all building towards the end. I ended up caring about one side character so much I almost flipped to the end just to make sure it works out for him. I really recommend it if you love fantasy stories with a splash of romance and a heavy hand of action adventure. The story built really nicely throughout the whole novel, and I am excited to see what else Mason Thomas brings to the table next time!
March 22, 2022
A nearly flawless secondary world (portal) fantasy action-adventure tale featuring a sweet MM romance. This was the perfect book for me at exactly the right time. Mason Thomas is a very talented writer who I wish I'd discovered earlier. I've already started another book of his, Lord Mouse, and I'm sure I'll quickly make my way through the rest.
August 14, 2019
This is the third book I've read by Mason Thomas, and as much as I've loved his other two, this one is my favorite. Thomas always creates strong characters, but I knew who Hunter was on the first page, and I became very attached to him as he navigates his journey. I loved the relationship between Dax and Hunter—the slow burn romance and their undeniable chemistry. They also seemed to compliment each other in the best way- each of them had characteristics the other needed in his life. (I love that in relationships) There was so much tension and action in this book, the action especially felt authentic. I wonder if Thomas has studied combat in some capacity? Either way, it kept me turning the pages and I finished this book in a few days. I can't wait for Thomas's next one!!
September 20, 2019
4.5 stars
The Witchstone Amulet was imaginative and full of action. I really liked the characters and the plot. I got a good sense of place and could easily see this as a movie. The romance wasn’t as strong for me but in the end I could see them together. I look forward to more from this author.
The Witchstone Amulet was imaginative and full of action. I really liked the characters and the plot. I got a good sense of place and could easily see this as a movie. The romance wasn’t as strong for me but in the end I could see them together. I look forward to more from this author.
December 1, 2019
This needs a sequel.
August 28, 2019
Review coming for Gay Book Reviews
he Witchstone Amulet is a fantasy story by new-to-me author Mason Thomas. It’s a fast paced, stand-alone story with an intriguing plot and characters.
I was surprised by how much I liked The Witchstone Amulet. Going into the story I expected a romance and adventure. While there was a romance, this story is predominantly a fantasy adventure story.
Witchstone Amulet starts with a celebration, but ends with our main character Hunter falling through a portal into a whole different world that he knows nothing about, stuck with the thief who stole his mother’s amulet. He becomes an unknowing and slightly unwilling pawn in a bid to save this new world world from the brink of war and an imposter queen. And then there is the thief who’s not really a thief, but something… Can Hunter trust Dax?
I thought this story was well written with a well developed plot. While the plot itself and the thrope of falling through a portal into a different one is certainly nothing new, it’s what is made of it that counts. The author clearly knows how to draw a reader into a story and keep the plot engaging. [Read the entire review]
he Witchstone Amulet is a fantasy story by new-to-me author Mason Thomas. It’s a fast paced, stand-alone story with an intriguing plot and characters.
I was surprised by how much I liked The Witchstone Amulet. Going into the story I expected a romance and adventure. While there was a romance, this story is predominantly a fantasy adventure story.
Witchstone Amulet starts with a celebration, but ends with our main character Hunter falling through a portal into a whole different world that he knows nothing about, stuck with the thief who stole his mother’s amulet. He becomes an unknowing and slightly unwilling pawn in a bid to save this new world world from the brink of war and an imposter queen. And then there is the thief who’s not really a thief, but something… Can Hunter trust Dax?
I thought this story was well written with a well developed plot. While the plot itself and the thrope of falling through a portal into a different one is certainly nothing new, it’s what is made of it that counts. The author clearly knows how to draw a reader into a story and keep the plot engaging. [Read the entire review]
September 30, 2019
Well done!
I first got hooked on Mason Thomas by reading Lord Mouse. I absolutely loved it so when I had a chance to get my hands on The Witchstone Amulet I grabbed it without a second thought.
I'm very glad I did so.
One might worry that the "Normal everyday guy getting pulled into another world" trope might be a little overdone. I mean if you enjoy any manga or anime that describes about half of them. But the way Mason Thomas handles it is really well done. Poor Hunter is completely in over his head and having some magical ability that shows up to make him a total bad ass? Nope, keep dreaming pal. He has to make do with what he knows. It really makes things more believable in my opinion. His one and only saving grace is the years he spent playing Rugby and his determination to make it through.
I'll admit to wanting to smack Dax upside the head a few times. But all in all I really enjoyed the read. I didn't even put it down to cook or eat meals. Just kept reading while I did it. To me that's a mark of a really good story. One that can draw me in enough that the real world doesn't even stand a chance.
I first got hooked on Mason Thomas by reading Lord Mouse. I absolutely loved it so when I had a chance to get my hands on The Witchstone Amulet I grabbed it without a second thought.
I'm very glad I did so.
One might worry that the "Normal everyday guy getting pulled into another world" trope might be a little overdone. I mean if you enjoy any manga or anime that describes about half of them. But the way Mason Thomas handles it is really well done. Poor Hunter is completely in over his head and having some magical ability that shows up to make him a total bad ass? Nope, keep dreaming pal. He has to make do with what he knows. It really makes things more believable in my opinion. His one and only saving grace is the years he spent playing Rugby and his determination to make it through.
I'll admit to wanting to smack Dax upside the head a few times. But all in all I really enjoyed the read. I didn't even put it down to cook or eat meals. Just kept reading while I did it. To me that's a mark of a really good story. One that can draw me in enough that the real world doesn't even stand a chance.
January 24, 2020
4 1/2 💖💖💖💖💖 Hearts Reviewed by Shorty for MM Good Book Reviews
Hunter Best has his mothers amulet stolen from him one night. Not one to sit around and do nothing he takes off in hot pursuit of the thief only to follow the man into another world he never knew existed. Dax is the man that steals the amulet. Dax and his fellow rebellion members need it to make the impostor queen reveal her true self.
Hunter soon realizes this world has many dangers. He's not trusted but as time goes by without getting any closer to a way home he decides to help the rebellion. Danger is around every corner and the slightest misstep can get you killed. I liked the story.
The characters were intriguing and engaging. The plot was awesome as it draws the reader deeper into the mysteries throughout. Twists and turns and many close calls of danger left me on the edge of my seat.
Great read.
Hunter Best has his mothers amulet stolen from him one night. Not one to sit around and do nothing he takes off in hot pursuit of the thief only to follow the man into another world he never knew existed. Dax is the man that steals the amulet. Dax and his fellow rebellion members need it to make the impostor queen reveal her true self.
Hunter soon realizes this world has many dangers. He's not trusted but as time goes by without getting any closer to a way home he decides to help the rebellion. Danger is around every corner and the slightest misstep can get you killed. I liked the story.
The characters were intriguing and engaging. The plot was awesome as it draws the reader deeper into the mysteries throughout. Twists and turns and many close calls of danger left me on the edge of my seat.
Great read.
November 20, 2019
I enjoyed the story.
The plot is good, world building done well & character growth believable.
I just never connected with Hunter. I don’t know why, he is the hero of the story.
Could be me. I know others will love him. Overall I’d recommend this to others I know enjoy the genre.
The plot is good, world building done well & character growth believable.
I just never connected with Hunter. I don’t know why, he is the hero of the story.
Could be me. I know others will love him. Overall I’d recommend this to others I know enjoy the genre.
December 28, 2019
I've recently learned that the holiday season puts me in a reading slump, hence why it took me so damn long to finish this book. I struggled to finish this, but not because of any fault of the book itself. I've just been insanely distracted mentally.
CONS:
▪ Maybe its just me, but I felt Hunter adapted way too quickly and way to easily to the time period he was thrust in. We never really see him struggle with the differences between his time period and Dax's. Imagine going from our modern time period - with vehicles, technology, every day luxuries like plumbing and electricity, and of course most of us know damn well how difficult it is to be separated from our phones - to a medieval time period without any of that. Be pretty jarring and certainly uncomfortable, right? Of course humans can adapt, I'm not saying it's impossible. However, there is a process to adapting in such a situation, and we never see much of that with Hunter. He just...does. Without any struggles, without any complaints, and I just found it unrealistic given his situation.
▪ It's clear who the mole is . While there were a few instances when I wasn't sure who it was, it became painfully clear after that particular scene who it was. Note that this happens several chapters before the mole was revealed.
▪ The single sex scene failed to get me hot under the collar. I don't know why, I just didn't feel anything from it. I would have been perfectly fine with it just fading to black.
▪ Wait, so they're not going to use the amulet ? Wasn't that the whole point of burning through all their funds to buy the portal stones so Dax could travel to Hunter's time and snag the amulet to begin with? It's clear they never really had any type of plan for getting her to wear it to begin with, so stealing it seemed kind of pointless when you look at the entire picture.
PROS:
▪ Slow burn romance that isn't put above the plot. Yes, please and thank you.
▪ Fantasy time travel.
▪ I loved Hunter, Dax, and Zinn. Hunter makes an effort to earn his place among people who clearly don't trust him. Dax is the type of character I favor: mysterious and distant, but we still get inklings about him scattered throughout the story. And Zinn, my bow/sword wielding lady who isn't afraid to speak her mind and is loyal to the bone.
CONS:
▪ Maybe its just me, but I felt Hunter adapted way too quickly and way to easily to the time period he was thrust in. We never really see him struggle with the differences between his time period and Dax's. Imagine going from our modern time period - with vehicles, technology, every day luxuries like plumbing and electricity, and of course most of us know damn well how difficult it is to be separated from our phones - to a medieval time period without any of that. Be pretty jarring and certainly uncomfortable, right? Of course humans can adapt, I'm not saying it's impossible. However, there is a process to adapting in such a situation, and we never see much of that with Hunter. He just...does. Without any struggles, without any complaints, and I just found it unrealistic given his situation.
▪ It's clear who the mole is . While there were a few instances when I wasn't sure who it was, it became painfully clear after that particular scene who it was. Note that this happens several chapters before the mole was revealed.
▪ The single sex scene failed to get me hot under the collar. I don't know why, I just didn't feel anything from it. I would have been perfectly fine with it just fading to black.
▪ Wait, so they're not going to use the amulet ? Wasn't that the whole point of burning through all their funds to buy the portal stones so Dax could travel to Hunter's time and snag the amulet to begin with? It's clear they never really had any type of plan for getting her to wear it to begin with, so stealing it seemed kind of pointless when you look at the entire picture.
PROS:
▪ Slow burn romance that isn't put above the plot. Yes, please and thank you.
▪ Fantasy time travel.
▪ I loved Hunter, Dax, and Zinn. Hunter makes an effort to earn his place among people who clearly don't trust him. Dax is the type of character I favor: mysterious and distant, but we still get inklings about him scattered throughout the story. And Zinn, my bow/sword wielding lady who isn't afraid to speak her mind and is loyal to the bone.
September 14, 2019
3.5 Stars
This is the first book of Mason Thomas’ I read and I grabbed at the chance to read it on account of the blurb. It’s quite a fun and engaging adventure, in a savage sort of way.. 😉
The lead character - and the sole POV of the book - is gay rugby player Hunter Best, thrown into a strange and alien world when chasing a thief who ransack his apartment in modern world Chicago world. To survive in that violent world and find his way home, Hunter found himself a reluctant ally to the resistance group to the oppressive ruler of the kingdom. Furthermore, he might be the one with the chance to put an end to the tyrannical terror.
It’s easy to align myself to Hunter’s cause, just because most of his oppositions - including his enemy turned friend, resistance leader Dacuro or Dax - were such douche to him! 😄 I dreaded along with Hunter wondering what fate awaiting him next in that unfamiliar world where sorcerers, beasts and creatures with horn lived. Thomas clearly had ways with word that the fantasy world they built depressed the bejesus out of me and I just can relate what Hunter must have felt stuck in there.
But the thing with books that only got single POV was the perspective limitation the story gave to readers. Given the premises is already something unknown, this gave added toil for reader (me!) to fill in the blanks that were not all available. There was also the romance between Hunter and Dax that (to me) needed a bit more work to develop to make it more convincing. On top of that was the culmination of the story that was a bit of let down. I mean, having (made to) believe the Henerans were quite powerful - and deft with magic no less! - I would expect more of that final battle.
All things aside, as an introduction to Mason Thomas’ books I think it’s quite a success. I liked the writing style and look forward to check-out other titles this author has.
Copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book of Mason Thomas’ I read and I grabbed at the chance to read it on account of the blurb. It’s quite a fun and engaging adventure, in a savage sort of way.. 😉
The lead character - and the sole POV of the book - is gay rugby player Hunter Best, thrown into a strange and alien world when chasing a thief who ransack his apartment in modern world Chicago world. To survive in that violent world and find his way home, Hunter found himself a reluctant ally to the resistance group to the oppressive ruler of the kingdom. Furthermore, he might be the one with the chance to put an end to the tyrannical terror.
It’s easy to align myself to Hunter’s cause, just because most of his oppositions - including his enemy turned friend, resistance leader Dacuro or Dax - were such douche to him! 😄 I dreaded along with Hunter wondering what fate awaiting him next in that unfamiliar world where sorcerers, beasts and creatures with horn lived. Thomas clearly had ways with word that the fantasy world they built depressed the bejesus out of me and I just can relate what Hunter must have felt stuck in there.
But the thing with books that only got single POV was the perspective limitation the story gave to readers. Given the premises is already something unknown, this gave added toil for reader (me!) to fill in the blanks that were not all available. There was also the romance between Hunter and Dax that (to me) needed a bit more work to develop to make it more convincing. On top of that was the culmination of the story that was a bit of let down. I mean, having (made to) believe the Henerans were quite powerful - and deft with magic no less! - I would expect more of that final battle.
All things aside, as an introduction to Mason Thomas’ books I think it’s quite a success. I liked the writing style and look forward to check-out other titles this author has.
Copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2019
ARC received for an honest review.
Hunter is a Rugby player who has finally received acceptance from his teammates and he's high on life. After celebrating with his teammates he goes home to find his apartment ransacked and the thief still there. When Hunter notices that the thief has his mother's amulet he gives chase to get it back. During the chase Hunter sees that the thief is literally jumping through a wall and follows him through.
Dax is a resistance fighter in Andreya, which is another dimension from where Hunter lives. He's short, abrupt and kinda cold but underneath he cares. He's had his share of loss and not letting people close to him.
Hunter wakes in another dimension and nothing looks familiar. He chases down Dax and gets an adventure of a lifetime. Weird creatures, old clothes and weapons has Hunter confused. Hunter and Dax don't exactly hit it off. They are adversaries from the start and slowly turn to friends and lovers. There's a wide cast of characters that play an integral part in the story. Hunter gets a big shock about his mother's history that fits in nicely with the story.
This book starts out with excitement and continues all the way through. There's great world building and characters. The author paints a really good picture and makes this an easy and enjoyable read. I was hooked from the start and didn't want to stop. I'm hoping there's a sequel to continue this world. I would say this is a solid 5 star book based on story alone but it has too many grammar errors and a couple of continuity errors that needed to be taken care of.
Hunter is a Rugby player who has finally received acceptance from his teammates and he's high on life. After celebrating with his teammates he goes home to find his apartment ransacked and the thief still there. When Hunter notices that the thief has his mother's amulet he gives chase to get it back. During the chase Hunter sees that the thief is literally jumping through a wall and follows him through.
Dax is a resistance fighter in Andreya, which is another dimension from where Hunter lives. He's short, abrupt and kinda cold but underneath he cares. He's had his share of loss and not letting people close to him.
Hunter wakes in another dimension and nothing looks familiar. He chases down Dax and gets an adventure of a lifetime. Weird creatures, old clothes and weapons has Hunter confused. Hunter and Dax don't exactly hit it off. They are adversaries from the start and slowly turn to friends and lovers. There's a wide cast of characters that play an integral part in the story. Hunter gets a big shock about his mother's history that fits in nicely with the story.
This book starts out with excitement and continues all the way through. There's great world building and characters. The author paints a really good picture and makes this an easy and enjoyable read. I was hooked from the start and didn't want to stop. I'm hoping there's a sequel to continue this world. I would say this is a solid 5 star book based on story alone but it has too many grammar errors and a couple of continuity errors that needed to be taken care of.
September 25, 2019
4.5 stars
Magic is what you read about in fairly tales...or is it?
Hunter Best never imagined other worlds existed, until the day he landed in one. Completely out of his depth, he has to rely on the man he was chasing, a slippery thief named Dax, for protection. While trying to survive the dangers of this new world, Hunter discovers things he did not know about his family, and himself.
Action driven, fast paced, the Witchstone Amulet is one of those books you cannot put down. We accompany Hunter in his discovery of a parallel world where he has to make difficult decisions and learn to fight and kill to survive. Hunter is a rugby player, and athlete, so he is physically prepared to cope with the harsh world he’s landed in, but his rational mind finds it very difficult to accept the need to choose between kill or be killed. I really loved the world created, and the evolution of Hunter during the story. He’s a very interesting character. Dax is also interesting, but he is kept in the background, we do not know much about him. Anyway, this is not mainly a love story, it falls more with the genre of adventure (which I really enjoy). There is magic, treachery, ugly monsters, castles, sword fights, a rebellion…. So good!
I loved it.
Magic is what you read about in fairly tales...or is it?
Hunter Best never imagined other worlds existed, until the day he landed in one. Completely out of his depth, he has to rely on the man he was chasing, a slippery thief named Dax, for protection. While trying to survive the dangers of this new world, Hunter discovers things he did not know about his family, and himself.
Action driven, fast paced, the Witchstone Amulet is one of those books you cannot put down. We accompany Hunter in his discovery of a parallel world where he has to make difficult decisions and learn to fight and kill to survive. Hunter is a rugby player, and athlete, so he is physically prepared to cope with the harsh world he’s landed in, but his rational mind finds it very difficult to accept the need to choose between kill or be killed. I really loved the world created, and the evolution of Hunter during the story. He’s a very interesting character. Dax is also interesting, but he is kept in the background, we do not know much about him. Anyway, this is not mainly a love story, it falls more with the genre of adventure (which I really enjoy). There is magic, treachery, ugly monsters, castles, sword fights, a rebellion…. So good!
I loved it.
August 14, 2019
This is first and foremost an adventure story, set in a dangerous medieval-like world full of magic and peril. The romance comes in a close second, very much a slow-burn, though it still carries a punch emotionally.
Dax is a very enigmatic character, trying hard to remain aloof and save the day all by himself, driven by guilt and loss. It’s great to see him, ever so slowly, open up to Hunter. What I love most about Hunter, is how persistent he is and how driven to make a place for himself, first in his rugby team and later on in a world he never could have imagined even existed. His longing for acceptance and his unwillingness to stand idly when faced with injustice make him incredibly endearing.
The world-building is great and the secondary characters are also very well written, some quite intriguing in their own right. The author keeps you guessing as to whom Hunter and Dax can trust or when (definitely not if) danger will strike. I really liked that some of the characters find themselves quite firmly in a gray area, instead of having everyone be stereotypically divided into good guys and bad guys.
Recommend.
Dax is a very enigmatic character, trying hard to remain aloof and save the day all by himself, driven by guilt and loss. It’s great to see him, ever so slowly, open up to Hunter. What I love most about Hunter, is how persistent he is and how driven to make a place for himself, first in his rugby team and later on in a world he never could have imagined even existed. His longing for acceptance and his unwillingness to stand idly when faced with injustice make him incredibly endearing.
The world-building is great and the secondary characters are also very well written, some quite intriguing in their own right. The author keeps you guessing as to whom Hunter and Dax can trust or when (definitely not if) danger will strike. I really liked that some of the characters find themselves quite firmly in a gray area, instead of having everyone be stereotypically divided into good guys and bad guys.
Recommend.
December 1, 2024
This book is exciting, action-packed, and imaginative. Hunter lives in Chicago, is a gay out rugby player, and is still mourning the death of his mother. Before dying, she gave him an ornate amulet and asked him to keep it safe. When a thief steals the amulet, Hunter chases him down the streets and ultimately jumps through a magical portal while in pursuit.
Dax is from another plane of existence. His world is in turmoil, as an evil imposter queen is oppressing and killing many people. The amulet may be the key to revealing her true identity. Dax didn't expect Hunter to jump through and follow him, but since he did, he will be under Dax's protection while with the resistance movement.
This book has intrigue, betrayal, magic, adventure, and a slow-burn love. While it ended in an HEA, a door was left open for a sequel. Highly recommended!
Dax is from another plane of existence. His world is in turmoil, as an evil imposter queen is oppressing and killing many people. The amulet may be the key to revealing her true identity. Dax didn't expect Hunter to jump through and follow him, but since he did, he will be under Dax's protection while with the resistance movement.
This book has intrigue, betrayal, magic, adventure, and a slow-burn love. While it ended in an HEA, a door was left open for a sequel. Highly recommended!
September 16, 2019
4.5 stars
I'm very fond of Mason Thomas. His first book was a 3/5(for me). His second is a homerun (highly recommended). This is somewhere in between. Knowing the pattern in his series, this will be a stand-alone story which is disappointing because this book needs more of less 250 more pages (or another book) in order to be fully satisfying. In fact, I wish this is a new series all together because the whole plot theme is so fun. I would love to see how our MC struggles and thrives in his new home, how the relationship with his father would progress, hell I want to see him become a king.
My main problem is the unbalanced plot. I love the slow build-up. It was fun, action-packed, and the will they-won't they tension between our two MC was more or less satisfying. Romance wasn't the main focus but I didn't mind. However, I was expecting at least 2/3 of the same length for resolution. Unfortunately, it ended so quickly there was no time for some closure. Anyways, Mason Thomas is still a must-read author and I will be keeping my eyes out for his work.
I'm very fond of Mason Thomas. His first book was a 3/5(for me). His second is a homerun (highly recommended). This is somewhere in between. Knowing the pattern in his series, this will be a stand-alone story which is disappointing because this book needs more of less 250 more pages (or another book) in order to be fully satisfying. In fact, I wish this is a new series all together because the whole plot theme is so fun. I would love to see how our MC struggles and thrives in his new home, how the relationship with his father would progress, hell I want to see him become a king.
My main problem is the unbalanced plot. I love the slow build-up. It was fun, action-packed, and the will they-won't they tension between our two MC was more or less satisfying. Romance wasn't the main focus but I didn't mind. However, I was expecting at least 2/3 of the same length for resolution. Unfortunately, it ended so quickly there was no time for some closure. Anyways, Mason Thomas is still a must-read author and I will be keeping my eyes out for his work.
September 29, 2019
I truly enjoyed the world building in this book. The story is interesting and engaging and a delight to read. It was a one sit read because I couldn’t put it down. I could have handled more about Dax though! I would like to read more in this world and hopefully there will be further books set in it.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review, which was very easy to do since I enjoyed it so much. The only thing that bothered me was a character being forgiven for the unforgivable. But I guess that makes the author a better person than me.
I’ll be looking for more from Mason Thomas.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review, which was very easy to do since I enjoyed it so much. The only thing that bothered me was a character being forgiven for the unforgivable. But I guess that makes the author a better person than me.
I’ll be looking for more from Mason Thomas.
September 20, 2019
I loved Lords of Davenia series and could not wait for this book to be released. I liked it a lot, fantasy is my cup of tea and the author can write a great fantasy with well build characters and a fascinating AR universe.
I liked everything but the ending - too many loose ends left, too much uncertainty about the future of the kingdom with such a powerful enemy at the boarders.
I could not find any reference of this book being first in the series, so I can't help with being disappointed with such HFN ending.
I liked everything but the ending - too many loose ends left, too much uncertainty about the future of the kingdom with such a powerful enemy at the boarders.
I could not find any reference of this book being first in the series, so I can't help with being disappointed with such HFN ending.
November 14, 2019
Mason Thomas writes believable m/m fantasy set in a medieval based world, with fully rounded characters and exciting plot lines, and this story follows that outline. I really enjoyed it - particularly as it included one of my favourite tropes, time travel. His writing is so full of life and colour, that you can almost smell and taste the the scenes he sets. I really appreciated the way he brings the action to a close and provides a believable future for some of the characters we have grown to care for. I am starting to look for books by this author to put them on auto buy.
September 19, 2019
The Witchstone Amulet by Mason Thomas was given in exchange for an honest review. I am one of those who likes time travel but doesn’t read to many of this genre. The story was wonderful in world building where you could just step into Dax’s world. From trying to find a way back home with the last piece of his mother Hunter never expected to find his place in the new world he finds himself stuck in. If you like intrigue, time travel and witchcraft you will enjoy this book as much as I did.
September 11, 2019
This is the first I have read by Mason Thomas and it definitely isn't going to be my last. This is such a great adventure story that I just couldn't stop reading. With the world building and action in this story I just couldn't stop read. Then we have a slow burn relationship with Hunter and Dax. I love their chemistry together. Definitely recommend this one.
May 8, 2020
There was nothing wrong with it. There were even things I liked, like how Hunter uses his abilities as a Rugby player to adapt and survive in the new situation. But the romance seemed very rushed, they went from I hate you to Let's have sex to Let's stay together forever very quickly. So I didn't really love it.
October 1, 2025
I really enjoyed this. Yes, it doesn’t exactly reinvent the wheel, but it does put a fun gay spin on it. It’s also wonderful to read an M/M romantacy novel that doesn’t drown in whimsy. There’s swashbuckling action, evil sorcerers, and perhaps a little bit more foot fetish stuff then I’m into.
October 22, 2020
Not much MM romance in the book and only one sex scene (though one decent one is way better than a boring sex scene on every other page). Otherwise, I really liked the book. 3.5 Stars!
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