Identity is a choice. Who will you choose to be?Lily is in trouble. Deep, deep trouble. Alone and without her magic, she doesn't know where she is or how she got there. All she wants is to go home and be left in peace. But what part of her will she have to sacrifice to get there?Sebastian is doomed. Spent, wrecked, devastated. Everything he ever had going for him is lying in ash and ruin, and he can't shake off the doubts in his head that are driving him mad. Is what they're saying true? How is he supposed to tell truth from lie?Separated by dangerous forces, Lily and Sebastian must dig deep for the courage they need to survive. But with all their pretense and excuses stripped away, can they come to terms with who they are--and who they were meant to be--before it's too late? Wizard, witch, and demon, their enemies are wily and strong...and have been planning this victory for a long, long time.With 2,000+ five star ratings on Amazon and Goodreads and over a quarter million copies sold, this urban fantasy series full of adventure and snarky humor is guaranteed to cause loud snorts of laughter, tea cravings, and sleep loss. Don't start reading at night or you'll never go to bed! Great for fans of urban fantasy from Harry Potter to Harry Dresden. Grab Book 6 now and discover who you will be.--Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus Universe LILY SINGER ADVENTURE SERIESBeginnings (#1)Revelations (#2)A Study In Mischief (#2.5) - FREE novella, can be read as a standaloneAllies (#3)Legends (#4)Cat Magic (#4.5) - novella, can be read as a standaloneBetrayal (#5)Identity (#6)Kindred (#7)More coming!DARK ROADS TRILOGYAccidental Witch (#1)More coming!
Since starting the Lily Singer Adventures series, I’ve been hooked. It’s a wonderful world of magic, one that has me desperate for more of the characters and the storyline. Whenever there’s a new book, I’m always eager to dive in.
With Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Identity, book six in the series, I wasn’t quite as in love as I have been in prior books. I enjoyed it, yes, but it didn’t quite wow me in the way the other books in the series have. I think a part of this is due to how much I loved book five, and I was expecting a wee bit more from this one.
We pick up where things left off in the prior book, this time spending most of the book following Sebastian. I adored getting to follow Sebastian, as I love his character and am always happy for more of him. With everything that happened in the prior book, I was doubly interested in getting to see things as we follow his character.
Although I enjoyed following Sebastian and liked the way things developed in this book, I do feel things were a bit slow. There was a lot of important stuff happen throughout this book, but it was only towards the end that I was at the level of investment that I have been with the other books in the series. It was the end that had the action and the drama, before then things felt a bit too slow for me. Sure, we got important information, but it didn’t feel quite as intense as I would have liked with all that was happening.
I may not be labelling Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Identity my favourite in the series, but it is another important book in the series. If you’ve enjoyed the series thus far, you need to dive into this one to see what happens next.
So far, this is my least favorite of this series. It wasn't bad, it just didn't capture my attention as well as the other books did. I can't really pinpoint why, except that it felt a bit slower than the other books. It probably also had to do with it having been a while since I read the last book, as well as the change in perspective (as this book follows mostly Sebastian).
All in all, it's still a good book. I just enjoyed it a bit less than the others. I'm still very curious to see where the series will go next.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Identity is the sixth book in this series. I really like this series and after the cliffhanger ending of book 5 I was curious to see how book 6 would continue the series. I have to say I was quite surprised by how the author handled things in this book, some of it really worked for me and other things less so, but all in all it was another solid and enjoyable book.
Let's start with the different point of view, where most books in the series are told from Lily's point of view with the interlude from Sebastian's point of view. This book switches those things, with Sebastian being the main character and only the interlude and last epilogue from Lily's point of view. Due to what happens in the series this totally makes sense and I liked following Sebastian's point of view. He's a great character to read about. Although I did miss Lily's point of a view a bit as she's a great character too and there's so little of her in this book.
I did feel that this book was a bit slower paced than the previous books, but maybe it's not so much the actual pace, but more feels that way with what happens in the story. It's hard to say, but it felt like a large book with most of the big events happening toward the end. There's this main big question this book has to happen, but you have to for quite far in this book to figure out what the answer is. Maybe it's also because this goes against what I am used in books as most books resolve a cliffhanger like that quite quickly in the next book. And due to the feel to know what happens to that main plot line, most of the book feels like a preparation for a certain event at the end. The vibe of this book is also a bit tense with the clear danger and uncertainty whether they can make it quick enough. It isn't as fun or relaxing of a read than previous books in the series. And with Sebastian and Lily being separated I also missed that banter and the fun scenes where they are together. Nevertheless the vibe also isn't as dark or depressing as I had expected based on what's going on. There are still plenty of fun scenes and uplifting parts as well.
All in all this is a solid book, even with the few issues I had it kept my attention and the story was engaging to follow. I liked following Sebastian as he tries to figure out his next steps and there are some big things about himself that he realizes or learns, the title is quite fitting there. And Sir Kipling accompanies him and there are some awesome Sir Kipling scenes in this book. There are some new side characters too. Malory and Chief both made for some great scenes. And then there is Aunt B and Mrs Singer and Jamie who are part of the book as well.
There are some great reveals and twists and turns in this book. I also liked how there is some action and trouble spread out throughout the book and then the big action packed scene at the end really packed a punch. It was filled with action, sadness and hope. There are twists and things move into directions I hadn't expected and some lose plot lines all get tied together better and things make more sense. It was well done.
Also this sounds strange but I liked how the characters were actually quite smart about the planning and got some rest as well in this book. There was a lot of emotion and the urge to do things faster, but I also liked that they actually took time to prepare well and sleep. It felt realistic and wise and I liked that they went in well prepared and rested instead of working through the night and tackling this all on too little sleep.
Where book 5 ended on a cliffhanger and a clear direction on what would happen next, this book ends on a pretty good place. Some things are settled and resolved and still plenty of things are open and up in the air and it will be interesting to see in which direction the next book goes after this.
To summarize: This was another solid read in this series. I liked how this book switched things up and followed Sebastian for most of the story, although I kinda missed Lily's point of view. The pacing felt a bit slow, or maybe it's more due to other factors than the actual pacing. There is a big question that this book has to answer and it takes a large part of the book to build up to it, as I wanted to know how the big event would play out it felt a bit like waiting for most of the book to get there. It also is a bit of a tense situation so it wasn't as fun or relaxing as previous books due to the ongoing situation. I was happy that there was plenty of Sir Kipling in this book, there are some great Sir Kipling scenes and I liked seeing him work with Sebastian. There are also some interesting new side characters like Malory and Chief. And plenty of obstacles to overcome before they can go after their main goal. I liked how the characters were smart in their preparation and planning and got enough rest too. The end is an action packed and intense part where it all comes together and it was exciting to see how it all got resolved. There are some sad parts, but also hope and some interesting twists and reveals. Some things get resolved and some things are left open. I am looking forward to see where the series goes next!
One must read the series in order to understand what is going on, but this book is excellent. We are focused more on sebastian and him finding himself. Great read
I felt very uneasy about a book that follows Sebastian. Honestly, until this point he seems like kind of a one note dummy. This book turned me around on him quite a bit, although it is really the combination of Sebastian with kip that is magic. No pun intended.
DNF at 80%. I stopped reading for a few days and found that even though I only had 1.2 books left in the series, I just didn't care anymore. Sorry, Lily! I like the characters, and the ideas are fun, but the books were getting a little same for me and I just lost interest. I wouldn't want this review to keep others from trying the series, though, because it's really fun! Maybe I should have read it slower so I didn't burn out.
This is a generous 3. More likely 2.5 because I feel like these books are dragging a bit now and the author is still repeating herself about lily's character traits like we didn't remember it all from book one. Like, we get it that Lily is an introvert and likes books and tea and England, and is from the South, we really don't need to be told so much. I also feel like the plot is floundering a little bit, like this book felt like a big filler episode, did we really need a whole book of Lily being rescued? And some things I find are over explained and then others aren't explained at all, and I'm wondering if this is new information or it was mentioned in an earlier book but I have forgotten. I could do with some subtle exposition on those kind of things (eg. Sebastian and his background) but don't need to be told AGAIN that Lily is an introvert, by book six she should be confident that the readers know this. I did like getting to know Sebastian more, though, he's a very sweet character, and now hopefully that he and Lily are together she will be less of a drag.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Omg...I could not stop reading this book!!! It really brought Sebastian’s feelings into play. Talk about redemption!! I cannot wait for the next book. That is the only problem with devouring a book in one sitting, you have to wait for the next one. Lydia Sherer, you knocked it out of the park’nn
It may be that I just got burned out after reading so many of the series in a row but for some reason, despite it being of the same style and a clear continuation of the story, this entry just didn't enthrall me. I struggled to get into it and finished it more out of a sense of obligation than desire.
I have truly loved the series until now. The woe is me with Sebastian, then with Lily, it truly grated my nerves and throughly disappointed me. It was slow to start, but it did get better. It’s definitely an important fixture in the series, I just very much disliked this particular book in the series.
I really wanted to like this installment of the Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus series, but it felt like there was way too much book for the amount of story this time around. I think it would have worked better as a novella, but maybe that's just me.
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Identity was a refreshing change. We saw most of the book from Sebastian's perspective and really got to learn about his fears, hopes, and dreams. It was a great picture of what it is like to live with trauma every day and the steep mountain climb that is while still fighting for the people you love. Confidence is built, not given. Trust in one's self is harder than most people realize and loving yourself is often neglected while we help others without a second thought. I appreciate that the struggle is made real and even when hopes and dreams are realized, everything is still not perfect and there is still hard work to do. The author wrote a believable, genuine character into Sebastian's story. I appreciate it immensely. Of course, there is also Sir Kipling who always gives us the comical cat magic that we love and the adventure is more serious than whimsy. Be prepared for triggers for anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide, mental disassociation, trauma, torture (physical and mental), helplessness, death, and depictions of blood. But fear not, all is not dire, and I assure you at the end there is joy, relief, love, kindness, family bonding, forgiveness,and growing friendships.
Lily has been kidnapped by the FBI agent and Sebastian is determined to find her and rescue her. Sir Kipling and others are helping him. The biggest problem is that no one knows where she is. Again with this book it starts out very good, but then drags in the middle. But as you start into the last 20 percent or so everything moves fast and you have the almost happily ever after ending. This is why I gave the book 4 stars. I would love to see Mrs Sherrer keep the action level equal out throughout the book. It does leave you wanting more and a opening for the next book in the series which is due out in 2021. Will I get the next book, the answer is yes. I can't wait to see where things go with Lily, Sebastian and the rest of the main characters of the series. One thing I don't think I have mentioned in any of my reviews of the series is that the characters are believable and well described so I have no problem picturing them as people and cat. I would like to see more magic playing out since that is one of the things that is a major part of the books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I’m usually a very cheap reader. I don’t have much money to budget on books so I tend to read why is free or discounted. I have bought all of the LLHP books because they are so good! The characters are people I’d like to hang out with and the adventures are compelling.
This book attacked the series from a different angle and I was all about it! Instead of the sweet give and take of bickering between Lily and Bash, this is all about Bash, his motivations, and how he maneuvers and manages when his resources are limited.
This part of the story was all about overcoming despair and fighting for what’s beloved even when it seems hopeless.
The only criticism I have is the treatment of Agent Grant. I feel like his part in the story was way rushed and felt too much like it got tied up just to get it out of the way. He was too much a focal point to not fully flesh out what happened. I’m being general so as not to give anything away. It’s the only wrong step that I’ve read in the series.
Better than the last book in the series. I will say the tone of the series shifted a lot from that first book with silly adventures to Demons and mind control. These are talky books so most of the conflict goes towards talking your way out of problems. Even when there is action it tends to be light. This is not a Larry Corriea novel. But I think author could pick up a thing or two from reading how he does action.
Sherrer continues to have a good characters who are balance of bucket of issues but generally good people at heart.
Sebastian and Sir Kipling make a good double act. Even if Sebastian does come across as a bit of loser for most of the book. That said it pays off in his character arc throughout the book but that doesn't make it much fun reading him putting himself down over and over. This might be how people act but it doesn't always make for fun reading or listening.
Overall enjoyable. Its tone and quality are line with series since the second book.
The stories in this series are getting longer, more detailed, and more intense. This book was told mostly from Sebastian’s point of view, which was an interesting switch. Lily has been kidnapped, and they’re certain that her evil father, John Faust LeFay, has her. At the end of the previous book, he had escaped with his ancestor Morgan LeFay, a wizard whom they had awakened from her thousand-year sleep. Even though he’s in pain from wounds suffered in the previous fight against the demons, he fights on, along with his Aunt B (Madame Barrington, Lily’s mentor) and Freida (Lily’s mother}. They call in help from Freida’s family - along with an unexpected ally - Lily’s step-sister Trista. The story is full of tense moments and emotions, and the ending is violent and sad. But I can’t stop listening now!
I honestly did not like this book as much as I've enjoyed the others in the series. The series swerved quite hard into the Dark territory, and while the build up was there, I was still taken by surprise as to just how dark it went.
While I'm not opposed to a book told from Sebastian's point of view, we do not even see Lily until halfway through the book. A small glimpse, and then she's gone again until the very end. This felt odd, given the way the previous installment left off with her kidnapping (and the fact that the series is known as The Lily Singer Adventures).
Some of the characters came across as a bit one note, but I suppose that should be expected given just how many characters appear in this particular entry in the series.
It does tie everything up nicely. There are still some questions to be answered, but it's a satisfying place to take a breath.
Frustrated that this isn't the end.. it ought to have been.. but with the next episode due late 2021 I am relieved to not be feeling obligated to buy another..
Morgan has appeared in America with no explanation as to how she traveled when she's over a thousand years old and has no passport.. other plot holes are not filled in.. we see the truth of Richard's involvement and yet the missing children are still not mentioned.. neither is the reason for Trista's defection..
It could have been more.. it could have been epic but it's just ok.. not compelling, or really believable.. it needs to draw the reader in so the outside world disappears but it doesn't quite make it..
𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆, 𝑳𝒊𝒆𝒔 & 𝑯𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔 𝑷𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔: 𝑰𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒚, Book #6 of The Lily Singer Adventures by Lydia Sherrer
I think I picked the perfect time to read this book (Oct, 2021) as the 7th book in the series is scheduled to come out in November of this year!
This series is always well written, and features no misspellings, grammar errors, or proofing errors. The pacing and flow are always perfect, the action exciting, the danger real, and the characterizations relatable and always showing growth.
Seeing Sir Kipling's role increase, and seeing some resolution in Sebastian and Lily's relationship, as well as getting a glimpse of family members, both known and heretofore unseen, made this an adventure to remember.
I enjoyed this book as I did the rest of the series. This one was definitely hard to put down. Lily was in terrible trouble, Sebastian and Sir Kip , Lily's cat, we're working on plans to save her. Sebastian was recovering from his injuries and needed help, so he contacted Anton to get him some help. Enter Malory, Lily's half sister. The escapades the trio encounter is definitely nail biting. Read it and don't put it down til you finish this book.
This book continues the plot lines from the earlier books in the series, yet remains fresh and engaging. In this longer than average episode, Lily Singer finds herself in major trouble. She has lost some of her magical powers and does not know how she will save herself from the demons that have entered her life. Separately, her friends are struggling to discover a way to help her. Lily's mother is still nursing Madame Barrington back to health while her son, Jamie, tries to come to grips with his ne found wizardly powers. I am looking forward to the 7th book in the series.
My goodness. What a wild ride. Lily plays rather less of a role in this installment. At the end, we learn a bit more about her extended family, just a taste, a preview of coming attractions, I think.
Morgan and John Faust Le Fay return to the stage. Still demons aplenty.
I miss the fae. But oh my stars and garters, there is a positively hilarious scene describing a fae party at Sebastian's apartment when he wasn't looking. Sir Kip to the rescue, natch.
Big giant fight for all the marbles at the end of this one. Not all the characters survive. But some might not be well and truly dead.
Couldn’t put these books down. Love that they seem so real. For anyone who has a belief in the power of good plus maybe a belief that there are higher powers around us than we may be aware! They demonstrate our ability to haul on our inner strengths when we really need to. A great lesson for us all, even though we may not be able to ‘conjure’ the same effects!
I was up to the wee hours as I was held hostage by the book,. This part of the adventure was full of suspense as they faced the danger of Lily's father and ancient ancestor. I missed some of the previous characters of the fae though I did appreciate the small group cameo. I look forward to meeting more of Lily's family on her mom's side.
I learned of this series a few months ago and just finished the last book out of the 9 total. I read all 6 of the Lily Singer Adventures, Cat Magic , A Study in Mischief, & Accidental Witch. They are all amazing and definitely a great read for grown-up Harry Potter fans. I can't wait for the next book.
I am having a good time with this series. Kipling/Aslan is always a highlight for me of course. Although seriously can we talk about how many notes are hit here from The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe? 😅😂. I was seriously afraid Kip was going to die in this one as a sacrifice of sorts to save the MCs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I read these books everyday for 45 minutes, while I sit with a lymphedema pump on my legs. When the pump finishes its program I stop reading remove the bags from my legs. Since I started reading Identity, the time to read goes by way to fast. When the 45 minute treatment is up, I don't want to stop reading. Identity was fantastic, the fight scenes were epic.
So much fun experiencing life through Lily, Sebastian and Sir Kipling’s adventures. Enjoyed the addition of Mallory in this edition. This edition focused more on Sebastian that others and that was an interesting twist. Looking forward to all the books that come next.
Very good story that I enjoyed reading very much. Lily wasn't in this story very much since most of it focused on Sebastian, Sir Kip and crew trying to find and rescue her after she had been kidnapped by the FBI agent.
Lily comes from a family of wizards. Sebastian is going to try to save her. He also comes from a family of wizards, but he has no magic. He lost his Fae magic because he broke a promise. How will be get her back?