What do you think?
Rate this book
The Triad of Magic #3
Soul Magic
Blood runs soul-deep, but found families are forever.
Cormac hasn’t been the same since the night the High Moon Pack was attacked. With his magic weakened, he’s consumed by a bloodlust he hasn’t felt since he first became a vampire. His need to replenish his power makes him a danger to his last remaining family member, and his hunger makes him careless. Feeding from pack beta Liam Benson was supposed to slake his appetite, not leave him craving more.
Liam is drawn to Cormac in ways he can’t explain and as the fight to protect the pack he loves reaches a critical point, his connection to Cormac deepens in a way neither wolf nor vampire anticipated. Will Cormac’s role in the final showdown against the dark forces threatening the pack sever the bond Liam and Cormac have started to weave?
Simon, Gray, and Cormac must fight a being history says shouldn’t exist—one with all three types of magic. The pack must use all their resources to combat the mysterious triad, even turning to the mysterious Conclave of Mages for help. As they learn more about this terrifying dark threat, protecting the pack proves to be riddled with challenges and sacrifices. While Gray attempts to hold his traumatized pack together, Cormac struggles to reconcile his past failures with his current desires, and Simon must attempt the impossible: an alliance between mind, body, and soul.
Cormac hasn’t been the same since the night the High Moon Pack was attacked. With his magic weakened, he’s consumed by a bloodlust he hasn’t felt since he first became a vampire. His need to replenish his power makes him a danger to his last remaining family member, and his hunger makes him careless. Feeding from pack beta Liam Benson was supposed to slake his appetite, not leave him craving more.
Liam is drawn to Cormac in ways he can’t explain and as the fight to protect the pack he loves reaches a critical point, his connection to Cormac deepens in a way neither wolf nor vampire anticipated. Will Cormac’s role in the final showdown against the dark forces threatening the pack sever the bond Liam and Cormac have started to weave?
Simon, Gray, and Cormac must fight a being history says shouldn’t exist—one with all three types of magic. The pack must use all their resources to combat the mysterious triad, even turning to the mysterious Conclave of Mages for help. As they learn more about this terrifying dark threat, protecting the pack proves to be riddled with challenges and sacrifices. While Gray attempts to hold his traumatized pack together, Cormac struggles to reconcile his past failures with his current desires, and Simon must attempt the impossible: an alliance between mind, body, and soul.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2013
148 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Poppy Dennison
30 books396 followersAdd two parts sass and one part sweet and you have Poppy Dennison to T—sweet tea that is. Raised by a gaggle of Southern women who love reading and have backbones of steel, Poppy was brought up to see the best in people but always speak her mind. Mix it all together, like Grandma’s famous cobbler, and you get a sassy, Southern lady with a quick wit and loads of charm, who will soften any blow with “Bless your heart.” Her books reflect her small town roots, are filled with all the comforts of home, and come with side dish of spicy, because that’s the way she likes it.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
February 12, 2022
Soul Magic by Poppy Dennison aka Macy Blake
The Triad of Magic book #3. Paranormal M-M romance. Best read as part of the series in order. Conclusion.
Simon, Gray, Cormac, Liam and the rest are family. Partially an shifter wolf pack that has expanded to include a mage, a vampire, and other shifters. A supportive made family.
In this conclusion, they have to figure out how to defeat Silas and his black magic.
Plenty of suspense, sorrow, family connections and both familiar love and the steamy hot couples time. Each of the books grew in numbers, Magic and suspense.
The wrap was long and plentiful here both at the ending and with a follow up epilogue.
Satisfying.
The Triad of Magic book #3. Paranormal M-M romance. Best read as part of the series in order. Conclusion.
Simon, Gray, Cormac, Liam and the rest are family. Partially an shifter wolf pack that has expanded to include a mage, a vampire, and other shifters. A supportive made family.
In this conclusion, they have to figure out how to defeat Silas and his black magic.
Plenty of suspense, sorrow, family connections and both familiar love and the steamy hot couples time. Each of the books grew in numbers, Magic and suspense.
The wrap was long and plentiful here both at the ending and with a follow up epilogue.
Satisfying.
May 3, 2013
OMG! The best ending ever! Okay, I really don't mean to make people upset, I put up like 1% of books I read early on Goodreads, but even though I'm not posting my review until tomorrow, I just want to make sure that all of you preorder this book (and buy the ones before it if you haven't), they're really wonderful.
And this was a GREAT finale!
Okay, here's the review -- Posted at The Armchair Reader.
Okay, straight up… let's get this first thing out of the way. Don't expect this review to be necessarily eloquent or far-thinking or in any way an analysis of the book or series. I just don't have that in me at this point. What this review IS… is an immediate reaction to reading this third and final book of the series; a book which I've been eagerly awaiting for quite a while now. In fact, I've been thinking about this last book ever since reading the first, Mind Magic, back in 2012. Normally that doesn't happen for me, I'm not sure where the story is going. But, and maybe some of you who have read the books can understand me in this, but I felt like (in reading that first book) that the series had a clearly outlined direction, firmly delineated by the names of the books and the separate romances, which mirror the way that magic is first described to us in this world, in a triangle and points of three -- three kinds of magic, three different romances, and three different books. The harmony of all of those things are what the series is working towards and Poppy did a wonderful job in satisfying my need for those things to come full circle.
We start this third book with most of the essentials already firmly in hand, with the base of the story firmly established so that the threads immediately start to come together for the final picture the moment the story starts. I cannot tell you how frustrating it is to me to become absorbed in a fantasy (or paranormal, but these series tend to be fantasy) series where I'm pulling the threads together on my own as I'm reading, putting the pieces together, only to have them be swept out of the way in the final confrontation or ending by a deus ex machina or even a plausible ending that is somewhat foretold but doesn't take those threads I pulled together into account. In this series, I felt the planning throughout and that it was important to this book, which I appreciated.
Here's a summation of the first two books:
But really, even though we get to know Cade and Rocky better in Body Magic and Cormac and Liam better in this book, the main star of this series is Simon, and beside him Gray and their family and pack. But Simon's magic and his exploration of his powers remains the main thread of this story that draws all the others together. I want to mention, at this point, that the setup of this series really pleased me and is something that I'm not sure I've seen very much in the past. I was originally a bit upset at the start of the second book, thinking that we were leaving Simon and Gray behind and moving to a new couple when their story wasn't really finished. But, what Poppy has done with the series is make Simon and Gray the main couple, and even though she introduces new characters and their romances in each book (including their own chapters) she never abandoned that first couple. I really loved that, not only because Simon and Gray and even Gray's son and the alpha-heir Garon were why I originally fell in love with the story, but because Simon's importance to the series means that he can't be abandoned. He's the star.
Now I'm going to go back on my word :)
I think some analysis of the series as a whole is due here. I want to describe why I think I fell in love with this series at the first book and just why it has remained with me. In past, I've equated my intense connection and love of a story with it's length. The more time I spend with the characters, the more I get to know them and the bigger the world is, the more detailed, the more I'm drawn into it and the less I want to leave. That didn't happen here. I was immediately drawn into this world -- three books, which in the fantasy world are rather short novels. And I think, now that I've finished all of them, I know why. There is a clarity of purpose in the writing and a lack of verbosity to get the author's point across. I'm not sure why this is. Maybe it's in planning. But the world is brought through the characters and their love of it. There's very little detail, compared to those others I'm so used to becoming engrossed in, of the world. And there is also, I must point out, what I felt to be perfect pacing. That is what really brought the story through for me. You can't say that it is necessarily action-packed, but you can say that there aren't any needless words. The story is succinct, to the point, and there is a somewhat heavy emphasis on the non-romance plot as opposed to the romance-centered plot, which nevertheless felt quite balanced to me because those characters and their relationships came across to me so clearly.
I hope that come across in the way I intended, and I'd absolutely LOVE to hear from those of you who are fans of this series and how you feel about it, now and after you've read the third book.
Now, I've rambled enough. But I do want to take one last minute to urge those of you who are new to this author or series to take a chance on these books. I can't tell you that you'll love them the way I do, but I do think you'll enjoy them.
And this was a GREAT finale!
Okay, here's the review -- Posted at The Armchair Reader.
Okay, straight up… let's get this first thing out of the way. Don't expect this review to be necessarily eloquent or far-thinking or in any way an analysis of the book or series. I just don't have that in me at this point. What this review IS… is an immediate reaction to reading this third and final book of the series; a book which I've been eagerly awaiting for quite a while now. In fact, I've been thinking about this last book ever since reading the first, Mind Magic, back in 2012. Normally that doesn't happen for me, I'm not sure where the story is going. But, and maybe some of you who have read the books can understand me in this, but I felt like (in reading that first book) that the series had a clearly outlined direction, firmly delineated by the names of the books and the separate romances, which mirror the way that magic is first described to us in this world, in a triangle and points of three -- three kinds of magic, three different romances, and three different books. The harmony of all of those things are what the series is working towards and Poppy did a wonderful job in satisfying my need for those things to come full circle.
We start this third book with most of the essentials already firmly in hand, with the base of the story firmly established so that the threads immediately start to come together for the final picture the moment the story starts. I cannot tell you how frustrating it is to me to become absorbed in a fantasy (or paranormal, but these series tend to be fantasy) series where I'm pulling the threads together on my own as I'm reading, putting the pieces together, only to have them be swept out of the way in the final confrontation or ending by a deus ex machina or even a plausible ending that is somewhat foretold but doesn't take those threads I pulled together into account. In this series, I felt the planning throughout and that it was important to this book, which I appreciated.
Here's a summation of the first two books:
But really, even though we get to know Cade and Rocky better in Body Magic and Cormac and Liam better in this book, the main star of this series is Simon, and beside him Gray and their family and pack. But Simon's magic and his exploration of his powers remains the main thread of this story that draws all the others together. I want to mention, at this point, that the setup of this series really pleased me and is something that I'm not sure I've seen very much in the past. I was originally a bit upset at the start of the second book, thinking that we were leaving Simon and Gray behind and moving to a new couple when their story wasn't really finished. But, what Poppy has done with the series is make Simon and Gray the main couple, and even though she introduces new characters and their romances in each book (including their own chapters) she never abandoned that first couple. I really loved that, not only because Simon and Gray and even Gray's son and the alpha-heir Garon were why I originally fell in love with the story, but because Simon's importance to the series means that he can't be abandoned. He's the star.
Now I'm going to go back on my word :)
I think some analysis of the series as a whole is due here. I want to describe why I think I fell in love with this series at the first book and just why it has remained with me. In past, I've equated my intense connection and love of a story with it's length. The more time I spend with the characters, the more I get to know them and the bigger the world is, the more detailed, the more I'm drawn into it and the less I want to leave. That didn't happen here. I was immediately drawn into this world -- three books, which in the fantasy world are rather short novels. And I think, now that I've finished all of them, I know why. There is a clarity of purpose in the writing and a lack of verbosity to get the author's point across. I'm not sure why this is. Maybe it's in planning. But the world is brought through the characters and their love of it. There's very little detail, compared to those others I'm so used to becoming engrossed in, of the world. And there is also, I must point out, what I felt to be perfect pacing. That is what really brought the story through for me. You can't say that it is necessarily action-packed, but you can say that there aren't any needless words. The story is succinct, to the point, and there is a somewhat heavy emphasis on the non-romance plot as opposed to the romance-centered plot, which nevertheless felt quite balanced to me because those characters and their relationships came across to me so clearly.
I hope that come across in the way I intended, and I'd absolutely LOVE to hear from those of you who are fans of this series and how you feel about it, now and after you've read the third book.
Now, I've rambled enough. But I do want to take one last minute to urge those of you who are new to this author or series to take a chance on these books. I can't tell you that you'll love them the way I do, but I do think you'll enjoy them.
June 16, 2016
In my head, this world Poppy has created is really2x big that 3 books is just not enough. Theres a death scene here that was unexpected and I was expecting conflict and angst but it got resolved pretty quickly. The author couldve have expanded the world and write more about the fairies, the vampires and other magical creatures and made this an epic high fantasy series. Im definitely reading more from thus author. Well written, fun and unique series. Highly recommended
November 19, 2015
4.5 stars - My favorite of the series by a wide margin.
May 10, 2013
This is probably one of my favorite m/m paranormal series so far. Given this is the last book in the series, it was the perfect ending to this already great storyline.
I love that we finally got Liam and Cormac. They are both such fascinating characters that I was anxiously awaiting their story. At the start of this one, Cormac is a bit messed up still from the events in the last book, Body Magic. He's scared of hurting everyone especially Simon and the kids. Liam is both worried and upset over Cormac's disappearance because it's hurting his alpha-mate, Simon. Liam and Cormac together were so hot, I loved how great their chemistry was. They also worked so well together. When one of them was thinking of something and trying to convey it to everyone else, the other would pick up on the train of thought and be able to make sense of it. It was both amusing and so adorable.
I loved that this story picked up very close to the end of the last book because we got to see how everyone was handling what happened. This was definitely a suspenseful ride with some very shocking moments (Like I seriously can't believe you did one thing, Poppy!) to sweet and intense moments. I had a blast reading this one because we got to see everyone again AND finally get the missing pieces to the puzzle that had everything making much more sense. I had no idea I had questions leftover from the previous books until I read parts and went "OMG, that makes so much sense now!" More than that, I loved how everything played out, especially the end, because it had me hanging on the edge of my seat.
I will say that at first, it was hard for me to remember what had happened in the last story but as the book progressed, the more and more I was reminded of what happened, which I'm so thankful for. The only drawback of the story is that I wish there had been more Liam and Cormac together as a couple. In the beginning, we see their relationship start to blossom. That chemistry you could see in previous books bringing them together intimately. However, the farther into the story, the less we got of them together alone. There are a few moments interspersed where they are showing their feelings but not as much as I was hoping so towards the end, I didn't feel like they were definitely mates (like I felt towards Simon/Gray & Cade/Rocky). This was bittersweet because I loved that we got more of Simon and Gray but saddened that it took away from Liam and Cormac's relationship.
All in all, Soul Magic was a great ending to a fabulous series. As usual, Ms. Dennison's writing was amazing and the pacing was perfect for this story. I loved that everything is concluded and I'm definitely satisfied with finally getting a resolution to the overall conflict throughout the story arc. I loved this world and I'm hoping that maybe one day we'll get a spin-off or something (hint hint, wink wink) :D
I love that we finally got Liam and Cormac. They are both such fascinating characters that I was anxiously awaiting their story. At the start of this one, Cormac is a bit messed up still from the events in the last book, Body Magic. He's scared of hurting everyone especially Simon and the kids. Liam is both worried and upset over Cormac's disappearance because it's hurting his alpha-mate, Simon. Liam and Cormac together were so hot, I loved how great their chemistry was. They also worked so well together. When one of them was thinking of something and trying to convey it to everyone else, the other would pick up on the train of thought and be able to make sense of it. It was both amusing and so adorable.
I loved that this story picked up very close to the end of the last book because we got to see how everyone was handling what happened. This was definitely a suspenseful ride with some very shocking moments (Like I seriously can't believe you did one thing, Poppy!) to sweet and intense moments. I had a blast reading this one because we got to see everyone again AND finally get the missing pieces to the puzzle that had everything making much more sense. I had no idea I had questions leftover from the previous books until I read parts and went "OMG, that makes so much sense now!" More than that, I loved how everything played out, especially the end, because it had me hanging on the edge of my seat.
I will say that at first, it was hard for me to remember what had happened in the last story but as the book progressed, the more and more I was reminded of what happened, which I'm so thankful for. The only drawback of the story is that I wish there had been more Liam and Cormac together as a couple. In the beginning, we see their relationship start to blossom. That chemistry you could see in previous books bringing them together intimately. However, the farther into the story, the less we got of them together alone. There are a few moments interspersed where they are showing their feelings but not as much as I was hoping so towards the end, I didn't feel like they were definitely mates (like I felt towards Simon/Gray & Cade/Rocky). This was bittersweet because I loved that we got more of Simon and Gray but saddened that it took away from Liam and Cormac's relationship.
All in all, Soul Magic was a great ending to a fabulous series. As usual, Ms. Dennison's writing was amazing and the pacing was perfect for this story. I loved that everything is concluded and I'm definitely satisfied with finally getting a resolution to the overall conflict throughout the story arc. I loved this world and I'm hoping that maybe one day we'll get a spin-off or something (hint hint, wink wink) :D
April 27, 2021
Reread review- ☺️. I do wish that another book had occurred between this one and the epilogue. 🙃
Original review- =)
Original review- =)
June 18, 2021
3.5 Stars. I'm rounding up because as a series book this one tied up all the loose ends, gave us closure for the characters and really let the reader understand the different magics and The Triad of Magic in both a good and bad way. However, it is not a stand alone and even read within the series I was a bit disappointed that we didn't get more page time with Cormac and Liam. Going into this book I expected it to be their book but honestly they were still more secondary characters and this book really revolved around Simon and Gray. I think that's my biggest issue with this series - the author didn't seem to be able to decide whether this was one series about Simon and Gray or a series with different MC's for each book. So it seemed a mish mash of both and therefore left me a bit disappointed with the other romances besides Simon and Gray.
I really liked Cormac and was so intrigued with his background so I had hoped to find out a lot more and get to see his character's depth really emerge. I was also looking forward to his romance with Liam as they seemed to fit each other so well. However, it was really in the background and I didn't get near enough of this part of the plot in the book. It was definitely secondary to Simon and Gray and the overall plot.
However, even though I was disappointed in that aspect I liked the overall plot and the way the author wrapped everything up. I liked how by the end of this book I really understood the different magics and I also liked the way the author helped me understand what was different between Simon's magic and the villain's magic. The final battle was exciting and well written and how the author came back to Simon and Gray's relationship being the catalyst for a whole bunch of changes not just with Gray's pack but with the entire supernatural community.
I see that there is a 4th book which I will read but I can't help but wonder what it will be like since all of the plot points were so neatly wrapped up in this book.
I really liked Cormac and was so intrigued with his background so I had hoped to find out a lot more and get to see his character's depth really emerge. I was also looking forward to his romance with Liam as they seemed to fit each other so well. However, it was really in the background and I didn't get near enough of this part of the plot in the book. It was definitely secondary to Simon and Gray and the overall plot.
However, even though I was disappointed in that aspect I liked the overall plot and the way the author wrapped everything up. I liked how by the end of this book I really understood the different magics and I also liked the way the author helped me understand what was different between Simon's magic and the villain's magic. The final battle was exciting and well written and how the author came back to Simon and Gray's relationship being the catalyst for a whole bunch of changes not just with Gray's pack but with the entire supernatural community.
I see that there is a 4th book which I will read but I can't help but wonder what it will be like since all of the plot points were so neatly wrapped up in this book.
June 27, 2013
1.5 stars rounded up to 2.0
Cormac is a mage and a vampire. He is also Simon’s great-great-however-many-greats-grandfather. Ever since the night the High Moon Pack was attacked, Cormac’s magic has been weakened and he’s been consumed by bloodlust. His need to replenish his power makes him a danger and his hunger makes him careless. In an effort to help Cormac, pack beta Liam Benson allows Cormac to feed from him. As a result, however, they both are forced to confront their growing attraction. Meanwhile, Simon and Gray are waging war against a being that isn’t supposed to exist: a triad with all three types of magic. In the end, the pack has no choice but to turn to the shady Council of Mages for help. It will take all of the pack resources and more to combat the mysterious and evil villain.
I was sorely disappointed with this book. First off, Simon’s “Grandpa" and Liam hooking up … really??? I get that Cormac is immortal and forever-30'ish but he's been ingrained in my brain for two books as Grandpa. GRANDPA. Nuff said. Second, I don’t like sharing to begin with. When it comes to my vamps and weres, I expect them to be over-the-top possessive. That wasn’t the case with Liam andGrandpa Cormac. Third, and most aggravating, Simon went from irritating to infuriating. When Simon , he and Cormac expected Gray and the other pack members to be immediately supportive. Um, hell no! They were reeling from the loss. Just because they weren't over there kissing Simon’s ass and making sure he was feeling the love didn't make them cold-hearted or insensitive. In fact, I expected Simon to be there for Gray and the other pack members. He’s the alpha-mate for crying out loud. Step up to the plate, asshole! But what did he do? He tucked tail and ran. I LOATHE selfish pricks who bail on their partners when the chips are down. And, I DESPISE martyrs. That’s exactly what Simon did. He bailed to have himself his own little pity party. Not only was he not there for Gray and the other pack members, he caused Gray additional stress by taking off and cutting off the mind-link. F*cking. Ass. Hole. Period. Lastly, the mystery of the evil triad dragged on IMHO. I wasn’t that into it and just wanted to get to the end.
Bottom-line: a disappointing finale to a promising series. Simon “It’s-My-Party-And-I’ll-Cry-If-I-Want-To” Osborne turned out to be a total wuss and killed it for me.
Cormac is a mage and a vampire. He is also Simon’s great-great-however-many-greats-grandfather. Ever since the night the High Moon Pack was attacked, Cormac’s magic has been weakened and he’s been consumed by bloodlust. His need to replenish his power makes him a danger and his hunger makes him careless. In an effort to help Cormac, pack beta Liam Benson allows Cormac to feed from him. As a result, however, they both are forced to confront their growing attraction. Meanwhile, Simon and Gray are waging war against a being that isn’t supposed to exist: a triad with all three types of magic. In the end, the pack has no choice but to turn to the shady Council of Mages for help. It will take all of the pack resources and more to combat the mysterious and evil villain.
I was sorely disappointed with this book. First off, Simon’s “Grandpa" and Liam hooking up … really??? I get that Cormac is immortal and forever-30'ish but he's been ingrained in my brain for two books as Grandpa. GRANDPA. Nuff said. Second, I don’t like sharing to begin with. When it comes to my vamps and weres, I expect them to be over-the-top possessive. That wasn’t the case with Liam and
Bottom-line: a disappointing finale to a promising series. Simon “It’s-My-Party-And-I’ll-Cry-If-I-Want-To” Osborne turned out to be a total wuss and killed it for me.
May 8, 2013
4.5 stars
What a fantastic conclusion to this trilogy! Like the previous book, the romance/relationship of Cormac and Liam was secondary to the plot. But even though I would have liked to have seen more of their relationship developing, the drama and action of the main storyline sucked me in and had me quickly turning the pages. Simon and Gray definitely had their hands full fighting off constant attacks and trying to keep their pack safe, especially little Riley and Garon. And man the hits just kept on coming. . There were some real heart-breaking moments but they were necessary in order to show the true danger they all faced and for alliances to be made against a common foe. I really liked how everything came full circle with the characters, although I still don't know how I feel about the Council of Mages. Why didn't they investigate the death of Mage Master Thomas or check up on Simon after Thomas tried to kill him and steal his powers (in the first book)? Were they involved since two mages accompanied Thomas at the time he delivered the Council's judgment on Simon? The magical battles were so intense, and I'll admit a bit of it went right over my head while trying to figure out what exactly was going on and analyzing how certain things could be possible, but then I just plain forgot about my questions because I was more concerned about who was going to survive in the end. I thought how could the author possibly pull this off? I shouldn't have worried because it was a very satisfactory resolution. The epilogue was wonderful too because it took us 20 years into the future so we could see the continuing growth of the pack and how our beloved characters were doing. Definitely had a smile on my face at the end and I really enjoyed this series. Highly recommend!
What a fantastic conclusion to this trilogy! Like the previous book, the romance/relationship of Cormac and Liam was secondary to the plot. But even though I would have liked to have seen more of their relationship developing, the drama and action of the main storyline sucked me in and had me quickly turning the pages. Simon and Gray definitely had their hands full fighting off constant attacks and trying to keep their pack safe, especially little Riley and Garon. And man the hits just kept on coming. . There were some real heart-breaking moments but they were necessary in order to show the true danger they all faced and for alliances to be made against a common foe. I really liked how everything came full circle with the characters, although I still don't know how I feel about the Council of Mages. Why didn't they investigate the death of Mage Master Thomas or check up on Simon after Thomas tried to kill him and steal his powers (in the first book)? Were they involved since two mages accompanied Thomas at the time he delivered the Council's judgment on Simon? The magical battles were so intense, and I'll admit a bit of it went right over my head while trying to figure out what exactly was going on and analyzing how certain things could be possible, but then I just plain forgot about my questions because I was more concerned about who was going to survive in the end. I thought how could the author possibly pull this off? I shouldn't have worried because it was a very satisfactory resolution. The epilogue was wonderful too because it took us 20 years into the future so we could see the continuing growth of the pack and how our beloved characters were doing. Definitely had a smile on my face at the end and I really enjoyed this series. Highly recommend!
May 7, 2013
5+
I can't even begin to explain how much I love these characters. I want to be a member of their pack just so I can be around them. And remember, this is coming from someone who doesn't read shifter books--ever. Except now I know I'll read anything Poppy Dennison writes. The woman is amazing.
I don't want to give a thing away because so much happens here. Suffice it to say that my anxiety levels increased as the progress bar on my Kindle crept to the right. I didn't want the book to end. I didn't want to leave this beautifully magical world with such amazing men--and those two wonderful little boys (I despise kids, too, btw). I kept thinking, "Maybe she can be convinced to write a fourth and fifth book!" Alas, I don't think so (although it would be possible).
Soul Magic is the perfect wrap up of a terrific series. I know I'll come back to visit the High Moon Pack boys again and again.
I can't even begin to explain how much I love these characters. I want to be a member of their pack just so I can be around them. And remember, this is coming from someone who doesn't read shifter books--ever. Except now I know I'll read anything Poppy Dennison writes. The woman is amazing.
I don't want to give a thing away because so much happens here. Suffice it to say that my anxiety levels increased as the progress bar on my Kindle crept to the right. I didn't want the book to end. I didn't want to leave this beautifully magical world with such amazing men--and those two wonderful little boys (I despise kids, too, btw). I kept thinking, "Maybe she can be convinced to write a fourth and fifth book!" Alas, I don't think so (although it would be possible).
Soul Magic is the perfect wrap up of a terrific series. I know I'll come back to visit the High Moon Pack boys again and again.
September 15, 2021
This was going along the lines of the first two rating-wise - probably a 3.5 star rating.
Cormac and Liam's story was more in-depth than Rocky and Cade's - and overall I just liked them better as characters - and their pairing made sense to me. Although I appreciated the overall plot, the romantic aspects do take a bit of a backseat throughout this entire series.
But then Simon's anguish made me straight up sob, and a book that makes me cry for the characters is hard to rate lower than 4. So I haven't.
There are still some things I wish were more detailed - I'm especially biased towards Riley and Garon - and there were some parts of the triad magic that I'm still not sure I understand, but I was entertained.
Cormac and Liam's story was more in-depth than Rocky and Cade's - and overall I just liked them better as characters - and their pairing made sense to me. Although I appreciated the overall plot, the romantic aspects do take a bit of a backseat throughout this entire series.
But then Simon's anguish made me straight up sob, and a book that makes me cry for the characters is hard to rate lower than 4. So I haven't.
There are still some things I wish were more detailed - I'm especially biased towards Riley and Garon - and there were some parts of the triad magic that I'm still not sure I understand, but I was entertained.
April 13, 2019
Good
Reread
4.5 ⭐️
Great end to the story of Simon and Gray. While this one completed their story it also wove in the story of Cormac and Liam. It felt like they had more page time than Rocky and Cade but that may be because I actually liked both of them.
This one saw the final showdown with the big bad and I enjoyed the resolution here. I also enjoyed the look into the future seen at the end. There is one part that kills me every time even if I know it is coming.
Reread
4.5 ⭐️
Great end to the story of Simon and Gray. While this one completed their story it also wove in the story of Cormac and Liam. It felt like they had more page time than Rocky and Cade but that may be because I actually liked both of them.
This one saw the final showdown with the big bad and I enjoyed the resolution here. I also enjoyed the look into the future seen at the end. There is one part that kills me every time even if I know it is coming.
November 28, 2019
this was adorable and sweet.... magical and interesting...paranormal aspects.. love.. and intrigue all thrown together in a fun story to read.. i enjoyed it a lot
May 15, 2025
I liked it. It was very sweet and exciting and a very good culmination to the series. But given that we get a good conclusion in this book, I'm unsure what book 4 is going to be about
February 7, 2016
4.5 Stars
The thing I liked the most about this series was with each new book forming a new relationship, the initial MC's were still kept at the top of the central storyline and not pushed to the background or completely ignored. I hate it when a so called series solely concentrates each new book entirely about the new couple from the original book, ignoring the original MC's.
I only mention this because of the blurb to book #2. I was very hesitant to continue onto book #2 when I read the blurb BUT I was so happy it was not like this and was a true trilogy, unlike the path that some other series take where the authors choose NOT to include the initial MC's or gives them a brief mention in the first chapter. In some severe cases they shouldn't even been considered part of a series but stand alone novels. Rant out over that but it's a HUGE pet peeve of mine.
The Triad series doesn't do this with the exception of book #4 which I'm not even going to read because the prologue at the end of Soul Magic, book #3 was EXCELLENT and tied up all the lose ends really well and that's another thing I find lacking at times and, another thing I get really annoyed about with a lot of books but not in this case.
Now that I've expressed my hatred of what I consider faux series in my opinion, I found this series a lot of fun and quite original from the norm and was also an excellent thriller/horror but maintained a great balance. I won't lie an say that they were incredible but they are well written and a great escape from the land of contemporary which I OD'ed on quite a while back and it takes a lot of good reviews from friends before I go back there these days.
I'll shut up now
The thing I liked the most about this series was with each new book forming a new relationship, the initial MC's were still kept at the top of the central storyline and not pushed to the background or completely ignored. I hate it when a so called series solely concentrates each new book entirely about the new couple from the original book, ignoring the original MC's.
I only mention this because of the blurb to book #2. I was very hesitant to continue onto book #2 when I read the blurb BUT I was so happy it was not like this and was a true trilogy, unlike the path that some other series take where the authors choose NOT to include the initial MC's or gives them a brief mention in the first chapter. In some severe cases they shouldn't even been considered part of a series but stand alone novels. Rant out over that but it's a HUGE pet peeve of mine.
The Triad series doesn't do this with the exception of book #4 which I'm not even going to read because the prologue at the end of Soul Magic, book #3 was EXCELLENT and tied up all the lose ends really well and that's another thing I find lacking at times and, another thing I get really annoyed about with a lot of books but not in this case.
Now that I've expressed my hatred of what I consider faux series in my opinion, I found this series a lot of fun and quite original from the norm and was also an excellent thriller/horror but maintained a great balance. I won't lie an say that they were incredible but they are well written and a great escape from the land of contemporary which I OD'ed on quite a while back and it takes a lot of good reviews from friends before I go back there these days.
I'll shut up now
June 19, 2013
It was ok.
The story for Liam and Cormac was so back burner it should have been in the next door neighbor's kitchen. Understandably, there was a greater story line here that needs to be told however, in doing so Liam and Cormac, I think, were totally slighted. I would have liked to see them begin/build a relationship or hell a friendship.
The ending was ok if you were all about Simon and Grey and their kids. You got to know where Cade and Rocky end up and Simon and Grey, did I mention them? And then a little of Liam and Cormac which which was perfect considering the rest of the story.
The story for Liam and Cormac was so back burner it should have been in the next door neighbor's kitchen. Understandably, there was a greater story line here that needs to be told however, in doing so Liam and Cormac, I think, were totally slighted. I would have liked to see them begin/build a relationship or hell a friendship.
The ending was ok if you were all about Simon and Grey and their kids. You got to know where Cade and Rocky end up and Simon and Grey, did I mention them? And then a little of Liam and Cormac which which was perfect considering the rest of the story.
May 6, 2013
4 Stars
I was pretty damn excited to get to Liam and Cormac’s story after the set up in the last book. Although each book gives us a new couple to cheer on ultimately the series revolves around Gray and Simon. I would have loved to read a book all about Liam and Cormac but that’s not how this series works. This review may contain some small spoilers for the previous two books which you should read in order.
The book begins with Liam hunting down a more primal vampire Cormac and not the one we’re used to. He’s not acting right after the attack in the last book and Liam is determined to find out why. The two decide the answer to his overwhelming need for blood is to feed from Liam. This sets their physical relationship into motion. Throughout the book the guys get closer and the obstacles put in front of seem to bring out the need to protect and care for each other. It’s a little tricky because Liam’s loyalty is always firstly to his Alpha. When the children are threatened again everyone puts their resources into finding a way to stop the bad guy. It’s all for nought because there’s nothing in their histories stating a person with all three magics has ever done something like this before. When Cormac gets a visit from the baddie himself he realizes how it all comes full circle back to him...
Read Whit's full review at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
I was pretty damn excited to get to Liam and Cormac’s story after the set up in the last book. Although each book gives us a new couple to cheer on ultimately the series revolves around Gray and Simon. I would have loved to read a book all about Liam and Cormac but that’s not how this series works. This review may contain some small spoilers for the previous two books which you should read in order.
The book begins with Liam hunting down a more primal vampire Cormac and not the one we’re used to. He’s not acting right after the attack in the last book and Liam is determined to find out why. The two decide the answer to his overwhelming need for blood is to feed from Liam. This sets their physical relationship into motion. Throughout the book the guys get closer and the obstacles put in front of seem to bring out the need to protect and care for each other. It’s a little tricky because Liam’s loyalty is always firstly to his Alpha. When the children are threatened again everyone puts their resources into finding a way to stop the bad guy. It’s all for nought because there’s nothing in their histories stating a person with all three magics has ever done something like this before. When Cormac gets a visit from the baddie himself he realizes how it all comes full circle back to him...
Read Whit's full review at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
January 9, 2014
I liked this one better than Body Magic. I was told that Liam and Cormac took a backseat, but I didn't see that. Sure, they still had to deal with Simon and Grey's issues, but we got to see most of the story from Liam or Cormac's POV.
I am glad Liam was persistent and wouldn't let Cormac hide from him (for the safety of the pack). I also liked how Cormac talked through his issues with him and didn't lie or hide.
I bawled when Simon was forced to do something he didn't want to do.
This story was very emotional for me, because it was the end of the baddie at the end and knowing what they were going up against was tougher than them.
Garon and Riley tore at my heart, but they were both so strong, especially Garon. How is he only 10?
I would have liked to have seen more ALONE time between Liam and Cormac, but I can see why we didn't.
Also, I would have liked to have seen Gray and Cormac use their powers/shift after Simon "cleaned" them. Did anyone else see a difference?
The Epi was sweet and normally I am a Epi whore, but I guess I would have liked more about Liam and Cormac instead of it being in Simon's POV.
Moving on to Wild Magic :)
I am glad Liam was persistent and wouldn't let Cormac hide from him (for the safety of the pack). I also liked how Cormac talked through his issues with him and didn't lie or hide.
I bawled when Simon was forced to do something he didn't want to do.
This story was very emotional for me, because it was the end of the baddie at the end and knowing what they were going up against was tougher than them.
Garon and Riley tore at my heart, but they were both so strong, especially Garon. How is he only 10?
I would have liked to have seen more ALONE time between Liam and Cormac, but I can see why we didn't.
Also, I would have liked to have seen Gray and Cormac use their powers/shift after Simon "cleaned" them. Did anyone else see a difference?
The Epi was sweet and normally I am a Epi whore, but I guess I would have liked more about Liam and Cormac instead of it being in Simon's POV.
Moving on to Wild Magic :)
October 6, 2024
Three is one more book coming out in about a week! Yeah! I thought this was the end!
I really liked this one. I love a battle and this one was exactly how it should have been. Frightening and victorious.
I thought I'd struggle a bit with the whole Grandpa thing but really, I didn't. He's a vamp first and foremost and forever young. I was so sad for Cormac but also elated he got a second chance.
Good stuff, all these books by this author and I am so glad there is one more.
I really liked this one. I love a battle and this one was exactly how it should have been. Frightening and victorious.
I thought I'd struggle a bit with the whole Grandpa thing but really, I didn't. He's a vamp first and foremost and forever young. I was so sad for Cormac but also elated he got a second chance.
Good stuff, all these books by this author and I am so glad there is one more.
May 8, 2013
This was so good and I loved seeing what everyone was up to. If you haven't started this series I would start today. You're lucky because you can get all three books. I love when that happens. It tied up everything nicely. Excited for the new series ;-)
June 11, 2014
I both love and am frustrated by this series! I know not every series has to be deeply, emotionally, soul bending and all, but I just want a little more to each of these stories. I think it’s because I loved the characters and the story so much. I just wanted things to have a teensy tiny bit more substance in the end. The ideas are all there but everything moves so quickly I never felt fully immersed in the story. And as much as I like seeing back into the lives of each of our main characters I wish their had been more of a clear delineation in this series…either it was all Simon and Gray’s story or each book could have been more focused on the other characters love interests.
Liam Benson is the pack beta to High Moon Pack and he takes his position very seriously. Everything he’s ever done has been for the pack even if in the short term it made life harder for himself. After the last attack despite being injured he’s never let Simon heal his wounds knowing if anything were to happen Simon needed to be at full strength for the sake of the pack. His wounds may be bad, but they would heal. Liam’s always observed everything going on in the pack and lately he’s noticed how little Cormac’s been around and how strangely he’s been acting. It’s beginning to worry Simon and when the alpha-mate is nervous so is Liam. He’s determined to get to the bottom of it all.
Ever since fighting off the attacker Cormac’s magic hasn’t been the same. The blood lust he thought gone years before is back and it’s making him a little crazy. He’s terrified he’ll do something to hurt Simon or the cubs so he’s been withdrawn and trying to find a way to deal with it all on his own. On top of it all he recognized something during the attack that’s got his head firmly in a spin. It shouldn’t be possible and yet there doesn’t seem to be any other explanation. When Liam follows him to the club and interferes in Cormac’s plans though Cormac can’t hide things any longer. Liam’s offer of blood to slake his thirst leaves Cormac with potentially adding one more desire to his list…and it’s not just for Liam’s blood.
Man I really really love Cormac! I so wanted this story to focus even more on him and his past. He’s just such an interesting character and he and Liam are perfect for each other. I know this whole series has always spun back towards Simon and Gray every time, but I was really hoping to get a little more Cormac time in here personally. I wanted to see the emotions developing between Cormac and Liam more fully even though I never questioned that they would end up together. I just felt like I got a teaser of their story, the toe dipped in the water per se, instead of being fully immersed in how they felt about each other and how their developing relationship adjusted their plans moving forward. The two just balance each other so well and everything between them was just buzzing! I loved even the simple things, the hand on the back or such, that was subtle but unmistakable that something was brewing between them.
That being said I did enjoy everyone working out what was going on and how it all came together. I really felt like I finally had more of a handle on what all the different magics meant and how they differed. The final climax/battle was well done and I was very satisfied with the conclusion of the overarching storyline. I enjoyed how Simon and Gray’s relationship was the catalyst for whole heaps of change going on in the world, as it should be. I appreciated how shocking everything was for the various councils and yet their secrets brought them all to this point in the first place.
As much as I love Simon and Gray, love how the end of this all played out. I just really wish I’d gotten more Cormac and Liam time. I’d been anticipating this for so long and the beginning was so promising. I appreciated how Liam handled trying to get Cormac back in touch with everyone while still trying to protect the pack. I love how Cormac handles Garon and Riley and the kids were as always absolutely adorable. I just really wanted to see these two fall and by the end of the book felt like I’d missed a step.
In the end I’d give this 3.5 stars, but I’ll round up because the ending of the storyline was very well done and satisfying. The lack in this story for me is in this book itself as a stand alone romance not it’s place in the series. As a series book it works well pulling together a lot of the past threads and completing the arch. I enjoy this world so much and I liked all the characters, I just would have liked the various romances to be given as much time as the first.
Liam Benson is the pack beta to High Moon Pack and he takes his position very seriously. Everything he’s ever done has been for the pack even if in the short term it made life harder for himself. After the last attack despite being injured he’s never let Simon heal his wounds knowing if anything were to happen Simon needed to be at full strength for the sake of the pack. His wounds may be bad, but they would heal. Liam’s always observed everything going on in the pack and lately he’s noticed how little Cormac’s been around and how strangely he’s been acting. It’s beginning to worry Simon and when the alpha-mate is nervous so is Liam. He’s determined to get to the bottom of it all.
Ever since fighting off the attacker Cormac’s magic hasn’t been the same. The blood lust he thought gone years before is back and it’s making him a little crazy. He’s terrified he’ll do something to hurt Simon or the cubs so he’s been withdrawn and trying to find a way to deal with it all on his own. On top of it all he recognized something during the attack that’s got his head firmly in a spin. It shouldn’t be possible and yet there doesn’t seem to be any other explanation. When Liam follows him to the club and interferes in Cormac’s plans though Cormac can’t hide things any longer. Liam’s offer of blood to slake his thirst leaves Cormac with potentially adding one more desire to his list…and it’s not just for Liam’s blood.
Man I really really love Cormac! I so wanted this story to focus even more on him and his past. He’s just such an interesting character and he and Liam are perfect for each other. I know this whole series has always spun back towards Simon and Gray every time, but I was really hoping to get a little more Cormac time in here personally. I wanted to see the emotions developing between Cormac and Liam more fully even though I never questioned that they would end up together. I just felt like I got a teaser of their story, the toe dipped in the water per se, instead of being fully immersed in how they felt about each other and how their developing relationship adjusted their plans moving forward. The two just balance each other so well and everything between them was just buzzing! I loved even the simple things, the hand on the back or such, that was subtle but unmistakable that something was brewing between them.
That being said I did enjoy everyone working out what was going on and how it all came together. I really felt like I finally had more of a handle on what all the different magics meant and how they differed. The final climax/battle was well done and I was very satisfied with the conclusion of the overarching storyline. I enjoyed how Simon and Gray’s relationship was the catalyst for whole heaps of change going on in the world, as it should be. I appreciated how shocking everything was for the various councils and yet their secrets brought them all to this point in the first place.
As much as I love Simon and Gray, love how the end of this all played out. I just really wish I’d gotten more Cormac and Liam time. I’d been anticipating this for so long and the beginning was so promising. I appreciated how Liam handled trying to get Cormac back in touch with everyone while still trying to protect the pack. I love how Cormac handles Garon and Riley and the kids were as always absolutely adorable. I just really wanted to see these two fall and by the end of the book felt like I’d missed a step.
In the end I’d give this 3.5 stars, but I’ll round up because the ending of the storyline was very well done and satisfying. The lack in this story for me is in this book itself as a stand alone romance not it’s place in the series. As a series book it works well pulling together a lot of the past threads and completing the arch. I enjoy this world so much and I liked all the characters, I just would have liked the various romances to be given as much time as the first.
April 7, 2022
I like this pack and the main MCs, not keen on the epilogue though. Much preferred to remember them as was.
August 7, 2016
A great finale to the trilogy. (Yes, I know a fourth book is scheduled but it seems to not connect directly to the preceding ones and, to be honest, I feel that the story ended with this one.)
Again we follow Simon, with a new couple in the backdrop. This is necessary for the plot but nicely balanced against the main narrative.
I really like Simon as a character. He’s big-hearted, yet completely human in his reactions. As Liam points out, he can be very fragile – and then the strongest of them all. Somehow those contradictions are believable to me in him.
I can’t say quite the same about everyone else.
Cormac, for example. I like Liam and him just fine; no problem. But why is he suddenly using keys to unlock his house? I thought it was safeguarded magically and left open otherwise?
Or Gray, . It’s not like it would require much of him; plus it is something he tends to do in other situations.
Speaking of, the aftermath is gripping. The emotions and the descriptions. Nothing overdone and yet I was with both viewpoint character at every twist and turn and it all worked emotionally.
I suppose I’d rather have not had that huge jump forward in time for the epilogue, although I do grasp what it accomplishes. To see everyone aged so much simply makes me sad. Mortality just never agrees with me.
On the other hand this supplies a thorough and satisfying way to say goodbye to the characters. It’s long and detailed, but still brief considering the amount of information imparted.
Out of the irritants, I’ll only mention two. Neither is a big deal, actually.
The last time I encountered “I resemble that remark” I thought it was a typo. Something isolated to a specific author maybe. But here it happened again. @.@ Is this a thing, like “I could care less”?
I found somewhat more grating that the pride of mountain lions keeps being referred to as a pack. That word is used like a blanket term for all groups of weres. And while I am not certain that pride would be the correct term for this type of lion due to their solitary nature, it’s definitely more appropriate than pack. The alpha thing too. I don’t remember prides being structured like that. *shrug*
So, no. This book – this series – is certainly not perfect. But tells an intense story that manages parallel couples without once losing focus of the main storyline or feathering too much apart in the process. And I really enjoyed being along for the ride.
Again we follow Simon, with a new couple in the backdrop. This is necessary for the plot but nicely balanced against the main narrative.
I really like Simon as a character. He’s big-hearted, yet completely human in his reactions. As Liam points out, he can be very fragile – and then the strongest of them all. Somehow those contradictions are believable to me in him.
I can’t say quite the same about everyone else.
Cormac, for example. I like Liam and him just fine; no problem. But why is he suddenly using keys to unlock his house? I thought it was safeguarded magically and left open otherwise?
Or Gray, . It’s not like it would require much of him; plus it is something he tends to do in other situations.
Speaking of, the aftermath is gripping. The emotions and the descriptions. Nothing overdone and yet I was with both viewpoint character at every twist and turn and it all worked emotionally.
I suppose I’d rather have not had that huge jump forward in time for the epilogue, although I do grasp what it accomplishes. To see everyone aged so much simply makes me sad. Mortality just never agrees with me.
On the other hand this supplies a thorough and satisfying way to say goodbye to the characters. It’s long and detailed, but still brief considering the amount of information imparted.
Out of the irritants, I’ll only mention two. Neither is a big deal, actually.
The last time I encountered “I resemble that remark” I thought it was a typo. Something isolated to a specific author maybe. But here it happened again. @.@ Is this a thing, like “I could care less”?
I found somewhat more grating that the pride of mountain lions keeps being referred to as a pack. That word is used like a blanket term for all groups of weres. And while I am not certain that pride would be the correct term for this type of lion due to their solitary nature, it’s definitely more appropriate than pack. The alpha thing too. I don’t remember prides being structured like that. *shrug*
So, no. This book – this series – is certainly not perfect. But tells an intense story that manages parallel couples without once losing focus of the main storyline or feathering too much apart in the process. And I really enjoyed being along for the ride.
May 5, 2013
4 1/2 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
This book is part of a series and must be read in order. After being gravely injured when the High Moon Pack was attacked, Cormac has been unable to slake his thirst, terrified that he will be a danger to his family, he has been avoiding them until pack beta Liam comes searching for him. Liam’s offer to feed him to take the edge off his hunger works, but both men are drawn to each other for more than just convenience. Simon and Gray are facing a foe that is powerful, trying to find a solution to their problems is hard when they have the Council of Weres breathing down their necks and they have to turn to the disbelieving Council of Mages for aid.
Soul Magic is the final instalment of the Triad series, weaving together all the tendrils from the previous books to bring us a final showdown that is brilliant. Cormac is struggling to keep a leash on his blood lust, when Liam insists on feeding him so he can help the pack, it is an experience for both of them. Cormac and Liam become close and start to develop a relationship, as they wade through the problems that someone from Cormac’s past throws at them. We see a great amount of Gray and Simon as their strong relationship is tested and they support each other through the trials they face, as they pull together their pack, family and the Mage and Were Councils.
I loved the way this story didn’t miss anything from the previous books, everything that we have learned in the past comes to fruition in an amazing confrontation between a true triad and a poor imitation triad. The storyline has stayed strong throughout the series, each relationship has been brilliant and Cormack’s and Liam’s is no different, they are really hot together and burn up the pages. Although I adored the story I just wish we could have seen more of Cormac and Liam and their relationship developing. Instead we got scenes of them together, but Simon dominated more of the storyline so I felt that Cormac and Liam got cheated.
I will recommend this story to those who love paranormal, fantasy, mages, vampires, shifters, a complex stoyline coming to fruition, loving characters, danger, loss, finding love and a very happy fantastic ending.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
This book is part of a series and must be read in order. After being gravely injured when the High Moon Pack was attacked, Cormac has been unable to slake his thirst, terrified that he will be a danger to his family, he has been avoiding them until pack beta Liam comes searching for him. Liam’s offer to feed him to take the edge off his hunger works, but both men are drawn to each other for more than just convenience. Simon and Gray are facing a foe that is powerful, trying to find a solution to their problems is hard when they have the Council of Weres breathing down their necks and they have to turn to the disbelieving Council of Mages for aid.
Soul Magic is the final instalment of the Triad series, weaving together all the tendrils from the previous books to bring us a final showdown that is brilliant. Cormac is struggling to keep a leash on his blood lust, when Liam insists on feeding him so he can help the pack, it is an experience for both of them. Cormac and Liam become close and start to develop a relationship, as they wade through the problems that someone from Cormac’s past throws at them. We see a great amount of Gray and Simon as their strong relationship is tested and they support each other through the trials they face, as they pull together their pack, family and the Mage and Were Councils.
I loved the way this story didn’t miss anything from the previous books, everything that we have learned in the past comes to fruition in an amazing confrontation between a true triad and a poor imitation triad. The storyline has stayed strong throughout the series, each relationship has been brilliant and Cormack’s and Liam’s is no different, they are really hot together and burn up the pages. Although I adored the story I just wish we could have seen more of Cormac and Liam and their relationship developing. Instead we got scenes of them together, but Simon dominated more of the storyline so I felt that Cormac and Liam got cheated.
I will recommend this story to those who love paranormal, fantasy, mages, vampires, shifters, a complex stoyline coming to fruition, loving characters, danger, loss, finding love and a very happy fantastic ending.
September 24, 2014
OK, I know that m/m romance is often (maybe even more often than not) targeted toward women and the characters and their relationships mirror m/f relationships, using a man as an avatar of sorts. I get that. I don't read m/m romance expecting realistic gay relationships or characters. It's a plus when they show up, but I know not to expect it on the whole.
Having said all that I was disturbed by how strongly and recognisably Simon's character evolved into that of a mother in this book. Everything from the way he couldn't or wouldn't focus on anything before or beyond the safety of the children, to his propensity to cry, to his manner of overcoming the antagonist by sacrificing himself (a strong and often used trope for female characters) screamed mama and I found it an unfortunate simplification of his character. It was like all of his other character traits were washed out.
The writing here was fine. Even the tendency to overuse names/titles in dialogue, that I've complained of in both the previous books, only showed up in the children's dialogue. (Though, it showed up in almost every sentence out of Garon or Riley's mouth.) However, I have to say there was a whole lot more time dedicated to strategy planning and what-if discussions than actual action. Honestly, I was a bit bored by it all.
Further, Liam and Cormac's relationship was at most a minor side story. There was no buildup or development. It felt like all of that was supposed to have come previously, but just because the men knew each other doesn't mean the reader had seen a relationship develop. I'll admit that the scene when they went hunting together was probably the hottest of the series (and it almost wasn't even a sex scene, 'cause the following sex wasn't as hot as the hunt), but it wasn't enough to carry their story arc. It just felt like either a distraction from the main plot or a woefully underdeveloped story of its own. Too bad, I think they may have been my favorite pairing.
Having said all that I was disturbed by how strongly and recognisably Simon's character evolved into that of a mother in this book. Everything from the way he couldn't or wouldn't focus on anything before or beyond the safety of the children, to his propensity to cry, to his manner of overcoming the antagonist by sacrificing himself (a strong and often used trope for female characters) screamed mama and I found it an unfortunate simplification of his character. It was like all of his other character traits were washed out.
The writing here was fine. Even the tendency to overuse names/titles in dialogue, that I've complained of in both the previous books, only showed up in the children's dialogue. (Though, it showed up in almost every sentence out of Garon or Riley's mouth.) However, I have to say there was a whole lot more time dedicated to strategy planning and what-if discussions than actual action. Honestly, I was a bit bored by it all.
Further, Liam and Cormac's relationship was at most a minor side story. There was no buildup or development. It felt like all of that was supposed to have come previously, but just because the men knew each other doesn't mean the reader had seen a relationship develop. I'll admit that the scene when they went hunting together was probably the hottest of the series (and it almost wasn't even a sex scene, 'cause the following sex wasn't as hot as the hunt), but it wasn't enough to carry their story arc. It just felt like either a distraction from the main plot or a woefully underdeveloped story of its own. Too bad, I think they may have been my favorite pairing.
June 29, 2013
This was such an awesome ending for a really good fantastical trilogy! I was a bit concerned how things would play out, but I didn't need to be. I was definitely satisfied with this resolution!!
Of course, to be perfectly honest, there are several things that bugged me over the course of these books: some happenings were very cliché and predictable and I was a bit surprised how the whole head trio of the High Moon Pack turned out to be gay (that seemed a bit too much). The writing was good and solid, but not spectacular. And in regards to this book: Simon was almost too powerful, it seemed to me - although the ending and the resolution to the three-books-spanning story line was so beautiful and so perfect that I got over that pretty fast. The ending was so good, in fact, that the epilogue really wasn't needed - at least for me.
I loved the basic ideas in this trilogy and I really enjoyed reading about Simon and Gray as individuals and as a couple. The other couples were nice as well, but almost too much - I would have been perfectly satisfied with just focusing on Simon and Gray throughout. I loved Simon's development, how much he changed in his demeanour, how he gained confidence and became rooted through the personal relationships he developed in the course of all three books.
If you like fantasy, don't mind shifters, and can stand a few rather predictable happenings, I definitely recommend this series to you!
Of course, to be perfectly honest, there are several things that bugged me over the course of these books: some happenings were very cliché and predictable and I was a bit surprised how the whole head trio of the High Moon Pack turned out to be gay (that seemed a bit too much). The writing was good and solid, but not spectacular. And in regards to this book: Simon was almost too powerful, it seemed to me - although the ending and the resolution to the three-books-spanning story line was so beautiful and so perfect that I got over that pretty fast. The ending was so good, in fact, that the epilogue really wasn't needed - at least for me.
I loved the basic ideas in this trilogy and I really enjoyed reading about Simon and Gray as individuals and as a couple. The other couples were nice as well, but almost too much - I would have been perfectly satisfied with just focusing on Simon and Gray throughout. I loved Simon's development, how much he changed in his demeanour, how he gained confidence and became rooted through the personal relationships he developed in the course of all three books.
If you like fantasy, don't mind shifters, and can stand a few rather predictable happenings, I definitely recommend this series to you!
November 29, 2019
Oh, I was so eager to get my hands on this final story in 'The Triad of Magic' series by Macy Blake. I am, literally, trembling at the beginning of what I know is going to be an incredible finale to a series that I have so enjoyed.
I'm not even ten percent in and there is a lot of excitement and drama happening. Cormac is Simon's great-great-however-many-greats grandfather and he's not doing very well after fighting the triad at the end of 'Body Magic'. Cormac is a vampire and a Mage but something that night, during the fight, has terrified him and he doesn't know if he can believe what he saw. The worst part is that if it's true he'll need to be honest with Gray and Simon and suffer the consequences of holding the secret. Liam is the pack's beta and he fought the triad alongside Cormac and was severely injured. Liam knows that Cormac isn't telling the truth and he's determined to get to the bottom of it. All of this is going on while Cormac and Liam are fighting an attraction, the triad is threatening the pack, and Simon is struggling to understand what is going on with his magic and why it seems similar to the triad's.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
I'm not even ten percent in and there is a lot of excitement and drama happening. Cormac is Simon's great-great-however-many-greats grandfather and he's not doing very well after fighting the triad at the end of 'Body Magic'. Cormac is a vampire and a Mage but something that night, during the fight, has terrified him and he doesn't know if he can believe what he saw. The worst part is that if it's true he'll need to be honest with Gray and Simon and suffer the consequences of holding the secret. Liam is the pack's beta and he fought the triad alongside Cormac and was severely injured. Liam knows that Cormac isn't telling the truth and he's determined to get to the bottom of it. All of this is going on while Cormac and Liam are fighting an attraction, the triad is threatening the pack, and Simon is struggling to understand what is going on with his magic and why it seems similar to the triad's.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
June 10, 2025
Awesome! Kind of feel let down now.. everything in a nice and neat tidy bun with a years later look into pack life. I'm almost afraid to look at the blurb for Wild Magic to see what's followed up from this. Of course, the biggest question I was left with was... Simon is still the last of his line!! And of course, what does it mean for Liam and Cormic to mate? Will Liam's lifespan match now or vice versa or.... I know.. just let it go but I can't help but wonder.
The biggest drawback was a certain aftermath event where Simon is kind of perceived at bad and gets no obvious support from Gray. Perhaps due to shock? And Garon pulls away from Simon for at least a few hours but then all is mostly back to normal. Clearly we can't have all rainbows and sunshine but some heartache thrown in. So ends this chapter in this world and time to move on to the next...
The biggest drawback was a certain aftermath event where Simon is kind of perceived at bad and gets no obvious support from Gray. Perhaps due to shock? And Garon pulls away from Simon for at least a few hours but then all is mostly back to normal. Clearly we can't have all rainbows and sunshine but some heartache thrown in. So ends this chapter in this world and time to move on to the next...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews