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Broken Throne #1
The Charm Runner
Running Black Market Magic is Deadly…
Winnie Durham just wants honest work in her shop selling charms.
Then Nils Kane’s Resolution 84 outlawed magic.
Caught between the law, her mother's escalating medical bills, and a vow to never deal in dark magic, Winnie is given an opportunity that's too good to refuse.
Will they close Winnie’s shop?
Can she stay ahead of the law long enough to discover the real reason magic was banned?
The Charm Runner is the first book in the action-packed Broken Throne series. Enter a magical world with gangsters, crooked cops, and a dark secret threatening to end it all. Join Winnie and her crew and find out what life is like as a charm runner.
Click and get The Charm Runner now.
286 pages, Paperback
Published July 19, 2019
336 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Davis
87 books199 followersJamie Davis is a nurse, retired paramedic, author, and nationally recognized medical educator who began teaching new emergency responders as a training officer for his local EMS program. He loves everything fantasy and sci-fi and especially the places where stories intersect with his love of medicine or gaming.
Jamie lives in a home in the woods in Maryland with his wife, three children, and dog. He is an avid gamer, preferring historical and fantasy miniature gaming, as well as tabletop games. He writes LitRPG, GameLit, urban, and contemporary paranormal fantasy stories, among other things. His Future Race Game rules were written to satisfy a desire to play a version of the pod races from Star Wars episode 1.
He loves hearing from readers and going to cons and events where he meets up with fans. Reach out and say "hi.” Visit JamieDavisBooks.com for more books, free offers and more!
Jamie lives in a home in the woods in Maryland with his wife, three children, and dog. He is an avid gamer, preferring historical and fantasy miniature gaming, as well as tabletop games. He writes LitRPG, GameLit, urban, and contemporary paranormal fantasy stories, among other things. His Future Race Game rules were written to satisfy a desire to play a version of the pod races from Star Wars episode 1.
He loves hearing from readers and going to cons and events where he meets up with fans. Reach out and say "hi.” Visit JamieDavisBooks.com for more books, free offers and more!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
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May 8, 2022This was probably a 3.5-4 star read to for me. It was a fast ready that is on the boundary between YA and Adult with main characters in their late teens/early twenties.
The things I liked: Arthurian references! Unique magic. A combination between the usual UF and dystopian. Interesting characters with very nice relationships between friends, family, and lovers. Interesting reflections on politics and the nature of people to accept things for 'the greater good.'
Things that I didn't like: The unique magic occasionally didn't work because plot. Some of the foreshadowing was VERY heavy handed. Our heroine takes a very morally dark path without nearly enough development. She has REASONS, but the challege of a very moral person embracing very immoral things was over too quickly. It doesn't really have a conclusion, it just stops. So not quite a cliffhanger, but this bit of information that is only distantly related to where the plot ended and a very open end to the next one.
So I enjoyed the read. I'm not immediately jonesing to grab the next one, but I probably will eventually. I'm at least curious enough to see where it goes and if it can fulfil the promises of this first volume.
The things I liked: Arthurian references! Unique magic. A combination between the usual UF and dystopian. Interesting characters with very nice relationships between friends, family, and lovers. Interesting reflections on politics and the nature of people to accept things for 'the greater good.'
Things that I didn't like: The unique magic occasionally didn't work because plot. Some of the foreshadowing was VERY heavy handed. Our heroine takes a very morally dark path without nearly enough development. She has REASONS, but the challege of a very moral person embracing very immoral things was over too quickly. It doesn't really have a conclusion, it just stops. So not quite a cliffhanger, but this bit of information that is only distantly related to where the plot ended and a very open end to the next one.
So I enjoyed the read. I'm not immediately jonesing to grab the next one, but I probably will eventually. I'm at least curious enough to see where it goes and if it can fulfil the promises of this first volume.
July 5, 2019
I really enjoy Jamie Davis’ books. His Extreme Medical Services series has been one of my favorite Indies for quite some time, and The Charm Runner, Book 1 in the 5 Book Broken Throne series really shows a huge progression, with Davis stepping away from Paramedic Procedural, and jumping fully in to the Urban Fantasy he succeeded so well at in the previous series.
The Charm Runner tells the story of Winnie Durham, a young mage, or “Charmer” gifted with magical power. She is quite respected in her community for her ability to enhance regular mundane household objects with her magic to make them the perfect versions of themselves, which makes the shop she runs very successful. Unfortunately for charmers, there is talk early on of a resolution bill being passed that is set to outlaw all use of magic.
The story works very much like a prohibition tale. Think Boardwalk Empire with magic as the commodity. When something is illegal, the black market becomes rampant and criminals bent on power show their faces. Winnie finds herself often struggling with her own morality, and the drive to support her ailing mother, often leading her to tough choices.
Jamie Davis does an excellent job detailing how easy it is to become corrupted by power. Winnie often finds herself at odds with those closest to her and shows true strength as she is constantly standing on her own (with only a few supporters) against terrifying odds.
Without giving too much away, there are some very shocking revelations in this novel. Some dealing with who Winnie is, and why she has her gift, others dealing with characters whose motives shift unexpectedly. The plot twists kept me engaged and nothing ever felt predictable.
While the book clearly belongs to Winnie, there are many excellent side characters that enhance her story. Victor and Nils are great antagonists, and Artos is excellent as the gangster whose story and motives are not necessarily black and white.
While The Charm Runner is not a long book, it is definitely intense with a lot happening within its pages. It proves that a Fantasy novel does not need to be a door stopper to tell a fulfilling story.
Jamie Davis has written an extremely promising introduction to this series that absolutely had me clamouring for the second book. He writes a strong, assured, yet sensitive female MC, and it’s clear that he loves his world and the characters that inhabit it. A fantastic book from one of the best and most consistent writers in the genre.
The Charm Runner tells the story of Winnie Durham, a young mage, or “Charmer” gifted with magical power. She is quite respected in her community for her ability to enhance regular mundane household objects with her magic to make them the perfect versions of themselves, which makes the shop she runs very successful. Unfortunately for charmers, there is talk early on of a resolution bill being passed that is set to outlaw all use of magic.
The story works very much like a prohibition tale. Think Boardwalk Empire with magic as the commodity. When something is illegal, the black market becomes rampant and criminals bent on power show their faces. Winnie finds herself often struggling with her own morality, and the drive to support her ailing mother, often leading her to tough choices.
Jamie Davis does an excellent job detailing how easy it is to become corrupted by power. Winnie often finds herself at odds with those closest to her and shows true strength as she is constantly standing on her own (with only a few supporters) against terrifying odds.
Without giving too much away, there are some very shocking revelations in this novel. Some dealing with who Winnie is, and why she has her gift, others dealing with characters whose motives shift unexpectedly. The plot twists kept me engaged and nothing ever felt predictable.
While the book clearly belongs to Winnie, there are many excellent side characters that enhance her story. Victor and Nils are great antagonists, and Artos is excellent as the gangster whose story and motives are not necessarily black and white.
While The Charm Runner is not a long book, it is definitely intense with a lot happening within its pages. It proves that a Fantasy novel does not need to be a door stopper to tell a fulfilling story.
Jamie Davis has written an extremely promising introduction to this series that absolutely had me clamouring for the second book. He writes a strong, assured, yet sensitive female MC, and it’s clear that he loves his world and the characters that inhabit it. A fantastic book from one of the best and most consistent writers in the genre.
July 17, 2017
Fanfreakingtastic! The Charm Runner by Jamie Davis is Book 1 of the Broken Throne Series and I must say it is a great start to a new series.
This is an urban fantasy that is gripping with its original storyline, unique characters and defined world. Davis’ writing is smooth and flows wonderfully, and I now have myself a new go-to author to add to my list. I’m definitely keeping my eye out on works to come from this author. Nicely done!
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
This is an urban fantasy that is gripping with its original storyline, unique characters and defined world. Davis’ writing is smooth and flows wonderfully, and I now have myself a new go-to author to add to my list. I’m definitely keeping my eye out on works to come from this author. Nicely done!
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
September 20, 2017
Wow
This book has magic and romance. But it also has family problems, forbidden love and people who think they control the world. But in reality it's Winnie who controls it
This book has magic and romance. But it also has family problems, forbidden love and people who think they control the world. But in reality it's Winnie who controls it
July 19, 2019
Winnie is a teen girl living an adult life. Literally. At the young age of 15, she took on the responsibility of caring for her mother, who has a crippling illness and was no longer able to care for Winne or herself. With that, funds for all the things - rent, bills, and medical bills - fall onto Winnie's shoulders. As a Charmer - essentially a witch - Winnie runs a small store called Charmed, which her mother had started.
At the beginning of The Charm Runner, we see Winnie, age 18, in her shop, facing the unthinkable. Magic to be ruled illegal. Anyone caught casting charms would be sentenced - but to what? You have to read to find out...
With her livelihood on the line, Winnie is in a bind. Emotionally, financially, ethically.
In The Charm Runner, Winnie faces many issues that a lot of teens and adults face, with a fantasy spin to keep the read enjoyable. With the lines of right and wrong blurred, the proverbial world on her shoulders, which choices should she make? Winnie struggles with remaining the honest charmer she always has been and still being able to handle her mother's constantly escalating bills. Seeing Winnie faced with reality, and a harsh one at that, shows us how easy it is to lose sight of our morals when everything you love is on the line.
At the beginning of The Charm Runner, we see Winnie, age 18, in her shop, facing the unthinkable. Magic to be ruled illegal. Anyone caught casting charms would be sentenced - but to what? You have to read to find out...
With her livelihood on the line, Winnie is in a bind. Emotionally, financially, ethically.
In The Charm Runner, Winnie faces many issues that a lot of teens and adults face, with a fantasy spin to keep the read enjoyable. With the lines of right and wrong blurred, the proverbial world on her shoulders, which choices should she make? Winnie struggles with remaining the honest charmer she always has been and still being able to handle her mother's constantly escalating bills. Seeing Winnie faced with reality, and a harsh one at that, shows us how easy it is to lose sight of our morals when everything you love is on the line.
October 17, 2022
A new slant on the genre but an enjoyable, definitely leaves me wanting to read the next
July 29, 2017
I have read several books in Jamie Davis' EMS series & loved them. I was interested to see what he would do with the world of witches (chanters). I was not disappointed!
Winnie is a chanter, using her spells to enchant common household items like mixers, vacuum cleaners, makeup, etc. (Wish we had things like that in our world!). However, the government, in the guise of Nils Kane, wants to stop all magical use. Winnie is "saved" by Artos Merrilyn when he obtains a license for her to repair magical items, which is legal because of a loophole in the Resolution.
However, this repair business isn't going to bring in enough money to provide for Winnie's mother's medications, so she becomes a Charm Runner. She meets a boy from the affluent part of town who wants excitement in his life & enlists his help in selling and delivering magical items to the rich who have come to rely on them.
The characters are well developed, the story is intriguing & the action is non-stop. The government's treatment of the chanters is very reminiscent of Nazi Germany tactics against the Jews & other "undesirables" in WWII. The author also addresses the problems of addiction when Winnie's cousin becomes a user of Sable magic.
This story has it all: Action, betrayal, romance, magic, social commentary, and time travel. I can't wait to read the next book in this wonderful new series!
Winnie is a chanter, using her spells to enchant common household items like mixers, vacuum cleaners, makeup, etc. (Wish we had things like that in our world!). However, the government, in the guise of Nils Kane, wants to stop all magical use. Winnie is "saved" by Artos Merrilyn when he obtains a license for her to repair magical items, which is legal because of a loophole in the Resolution.
However, this repair business isn't going to bring in enough money to provide for Winnie's mother's medications, so she becomes a Charm Runner. She meets a boy from the affluent part of town who wants excitement in his life & enlists his help in selling and delivering magical items to the rich who have come to rely on them.
The characters are well developed, the story is intriguing & the action is non-stop. The government's treatment of the chanters is very reminiscent of Nazi Germany tactics against the Jews & other "undesirables" in WWII. The author also addresses the problems of addiction when Winnie's cousin becomes a user of Sable magic.
This story has it all: Action, betrayal, romance, magic, social commentary, and time travel. I can't wait to read the next book in this wonderful new series!
August 26, 2023
OMG! What the HELL did I just read! Jamie, you have done it again! I'm hooked on another series! I loved this book! My favorite character is Winnie. I can't wait to see what happens next!
June 6, 2019
Warning: Although a good read, the story ends, not so much on a cliffhanger, as a non-ending. Although the immediate peril is resolved, there is A LOT of unresolved 'stuff' still floating around. This is a first of a trilogy - expect to commit to all 3 for a 'whole' story.
*************SPOILER ALERT*****************
I also have a bit of an issue with her going from 'moral' law abiding person to black market runner so quickly without more discussion of her 'conversion'. It is understandable, but her inner struggle needs to be better articulated - yeah, I know her mom needs medicine and the laws are making it impossible to afford, but there needs to be more to her mental and emotional acceptance of her own changes in outlook than just that. We need to see more of her inner struggle - and see, from her point of view, how ensuing events reinforce her changes in outlook - or not.
Also, a wee bit repetitive, as are many YA (- and with an 18 year old protagonist, not a lot of physical violence, and minimal non-graphic sex, I would add YA to classification.) On the plus side, Arthurian overtones! 3.5 stars.
*************SPOILER ALERT*****************
I also have a bit of an issue with her going from 'moral' law abiding person to black market runner so quickly without more discussion of her 'conversion'. It is understandable, but her inner struggle needs to be better articulated - yeah, I know her mom needs medicine and the laws are making it impossible to afford, but there needs to be more to her mental and emotional acceptance of her own changes in outlook than just that. We need to see more of her inner struggle - and see, from her point of view, how ensuing events reinforce her changes in outlook - or not.
Also, a wee bit repetitive, as are many YA (- and with an 18 year old protagonist, not a lot of physical violence, and minimal non-graphic sex, I would add YA to classification.) On the plus side, Arthurian overtones! 3.5 stars.
July 10, 2017
I came across this book from an author that I really like who was recommending it and asking for reviews. The book looked interesting so I went ahead and offered to review it. Boy, am I glad I did. This book took a unique spin on the magic trope, and I found the whole plot very interesting. The author was excellent at keeping the reader entertained throughout the book, and I found the plot complex without being overwhelming. The only thing I was a little confused about was the Sable trade; I still don’t exactly know what makes it addicting/causes the euphoria and where the line is on that type of magic. However, I’m sure that will be cleared up in future books, or I could have just missed that part when I was reading (I was reading fast because I wanted to know what was going to happen). I was pleasantly surprised with the book and can’t wait to read more in the series! Highly recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
July 22, 2017
I discovered this book after another author I enjoy reading recommended it. Generally if one of my favourite authors recommends a book then chances are high that I'm going to like it, and like this book I did!
This is a multiple POV story with some very well created and crafted characters. I'm not always a fan of multiple POV as I can find it can get a bit too jarring when it jumps from character to character, but it worked well in this book and made sense to have it written this way. I thought that this was a very interesting read as I really liked the different paranormal aspect the writer has used here. It's something new but it's also very clever and intriguing which made me keep turning the pages to find out more.
I'm looking forward to reading book two of this series as it's always refreshing to read something new and entertaining. I would recommend this to those who enjoy Urban Fantasy books.
This is a multiple POV story with some very well created and crafted characters. I'm not always a fan of multiple POV as I can find it can get a bit too jarring when it jumps from character to character, but it worked well in this book and made sense to have it written this way. I thought that this was a very interesting read as I really liked the different paranormal aspect the writer has used here. It's something new but it's also very clever and intriguing which made me keep turning the pages to find out more.
I'm looking forward to reading book two of this series as it's always refreshing to read something new and entertaining. I would recommend this to those who enjoy Urban Fantasy books.
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March 11, 2025Interesting Take On Arthurian Legend
At the beginning of this story, it introduces us to a young woman, Winnie, who uses magic to create helpful household items - blades that never dull, salt and pepper shakers that season food perfectly, etc. Meanwhile magic is slowly being outlawed by the government and shops like Winnie’s will be forced to close down. The world is becoming more and more prejudiced against all magic users (mostly due to the ones who use Sable magic - magic that affects the body, not just inanimate objects and is extremely addictive) while secretly using magical items that make their lives easier. Circumstances force Winnie to confront her morality and decide where to draw the line in order to survive. This is just the beginning of a new series that will be interesting to watch.
At the beginning of this story, it introduces us to a young woman, Winnie, who uses magic to create helpful household items - blades that never dull, salt and pepper shakers that season food perfectly, etc. Meanwhile magic is slowly being outlawed by the government and shops like Winnie’s will be forced to close down. The world is becoming more and more prejudiced against all magic users (mostly due to the ones who use Sable magic - magic that affects the body, not just inanimate objects and is extremely addictive) while secretly using magical items that make their lives easier. Circumstances force Winnie to confront her morality and decide where to draw the line in order to survive. This is just the beginning of a new series that will be interesting to watch.
April 10, 2022
Winnie is a magic user, and that is her trade. A trade that’s now illegal.
What is the owner of charms supposed to do now. The shop is run by a person who enchants objects with magic. Magic that is now illegal. Winnie, has been running the shop for her sick mother for years, and it’s the only way to provide for them. She has to figure out what to do, everything is up to her now. The business that her and her friends have started on, has become something more than they will know. A fight between good and evil, and they will all become something more.
What is the owner of charms supposed to do now. The shop is run by a person who enchants objects with magic. Magic that is now illegal. Winnie, has been running the shop for her sick mother for years, and it’s the only way to provide for them. She has to figure out what to do, everything is up to her now. The business that her and her friends have started on, has become something more than they will know. A fight between good and evil, and they will all become something more.
May 3, 2025
Ok read
Not really invested in the characters or storyline. Seems like an awful lot of poor decisions were made by the female lead and confusing backstory did not help the plot. Maybe ok for very young adults. The chanters are magic users who live in the ghetto and although needed to keep the city running are despised. Winnie is able to hide her magic so is especially hunted by those who want magic gone from their lives. Her crew stop the first threat but can they survive the war?
Not really invested in the characters or storyline. Seems like an awful lot of poor decisions were made by the female lead and confusing backstory did not help the plot. Maybe ok for very young adults. The chanters are magic users who live in the ghetto and although needed to keep the city running are despised. Winnie is able to hide her magic so is especially hunted by those who want magic gone from their lives. Her crew stop the first threat but can they survive the war?
July 11, 2017
I received this in exchange for an honest review. It had a lot going for it, unusual world building and in a setting entirely different to most urban fantasy. The world was complex, well thought out and the book as a whole was well written and edited. Sadly, on a personal level it did not capture my imagination, and I didn't engage with the characters or the situations at all. I had a hard time believing in Winnie, and therefore in all the events and people around her.
August 8, 2017
Wow!
No spoilers but there was so much packed into this book and it is the first one. I am very lucky to have received an advanced reader copy. Winnie's story is like nothing I have read before. I could not put it down. She is easily relatable and dealing with everyday struggles in life. It makes it easy to connect with her. As soon as I finished I found the next book in the series. I am totally hooked.
No spoilers but there was so much packed into this book and it is the first one. I am very lucky to have received an advanced reader copy. Winnie's story is like nothing I have read before. I could not put it down. She is easily relatable and dealing with everyday struggles in life. It makes it easy to connect with her. As soon as I finished I found the next book in the series. I am totally hooked.
September 18, 2017
I thought this was a solid and innovative story on magic. The characters were likable enough and the plot was interesting and kept me hanging on. It started out slowly, building up to the intrigue of a prophecy which had been unexpected and welcomed. The only thing that held it back from a 5 star review was that i started out very wholesome, but I feel like as it got toward the end it lost some of the details and got rushed or sloppy. Def look forward to book two!
December 30, 2017
If you want something exciting from page 1 till the end, definitely read this one! I'm not kidding, the story was almost too exciting for me with a twist on every corner :) I always waited what will be the next step, how the next situation will be resolved and of course, what will happen with all the characters, even with the not too nice ones :) Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I received the book as an ARC for an honest review.
I received the book as an ARC for an honest review.
May 4, 2021
An amazing read!!
The blurb indicated that if you like The Hallows series, you'd enjoy this...and I completely agree!!! Powerful men wanting to control magic even to the detriment of everyone else, but there are those that will fight by any means necessary. A wonderful opening full of magic, mystery, adventure, family and friends, and hidden evil. Definitely a series that I will be adding to my TBR list...want more of this adventure!!
The blurb indicated that if you like The Hallows series, you'd enjoy this...and I completely agree!!! Powerful men wanting to control magic even to the detriment of everyone else, but there are those that will fight by any means necessary. A wonderful opening full of magic, mystery, adventure, family and friends, and hidden evil. Definitely a series that I will be adding to my TBR list...want more of this adventure!!
March 15, 2024
A good story with an unexpected twist ending. The ending, unfortunately, did not fit with anything previously. I enjoyed the development, in spite of the protagonist's decisions which did not match with her previous thoughts. There were a couple continuity issues when things progressed in really unexpected ways that were not well developed.
Prior to the epilogue the story really finished. Nevertheless a good read.
Prior to the epilogue the story really finished. Nevertheless a good read.
July 23, 2017
The Charm Runner is the first book I have read by Jamie Davis and I am so glad I gave it a chance. The story held my interest from beginning to end. It was refreshingly different from your normal magic books out there with complex well developed and relatable characters. I am looking forward to book 2 as well as reading more of this Authors work.
July 27, 2017
Absolutely excellent. Had action ,suspense ,drama ,mystery you name it this book has it .Brilliant storyline and characters all well developed as story unfolds. Is a no brainer just one click it. First time I've read anything from this author but I'm definitely hooked Am seriously needing book 2 NOW.
July 30, 2017
Talk about prejudice when your own kind has it out to get you. I feel for Winnie and the struggles she is going through and eventually, all her friends are struggling. Mysteries are unraveled and secrets are revealed only to find more. This is the first book I have read from Jamie Davis and he has left me wanting for more of his world in Broken Throne series.
May 4, 2022
Rather long winded
I found the style rather long winded. Needed more punch to the sentences.
I did not feel much empathy with the characters or their behaviours. They were thinly drawn with only one, Winnie, being at all partially described as to her thoughts etc. Clearly intended as a long saga but I shall not follow it up.
I found the style rather long winded. Needed more punch to the sentences.
I did not feel much empathy with the characters or their behaviours. They were thinly drawn with only one, Winnie, being at all partially described as to her thoughts etc. Clearly intended as a long saga but I shall not follow it up.
August 18, 2017
Sorry, Could not connect with the main character in this book at all or any of the others. Found the character's extremely immature and annoying. The back story alluded to in the book promised to be interesting but just can't get by this story.
September 6, 2017
Not good at all
After reading 23% of the book and dealing with mundane problems of non-descript and lame ex-owner of small charm shop I got exhausted and bored stiff. And the name "Winnie"?????
After reading 23% of the book and dealing with mundane problems of non-descript and lame ex-owner of small charm shop I got exhausted and bored stiff. And the name "Winnie"?????
July 28, 2021
I had totally forgotten about this book. I first tried to read it and DNFed at 31%. I tried again and I didn’t last to 15%.
This is YA at its worst (plus it seems badly written to me). Cardboard, cliché characters are a nail on the board experience. TSTL MFC added to the unpleasant experience.
This is YA at its worst (plus it seems badly written to me). Cardboard, cliché characters are a nail on the board experience. TSTL MFC added to the unpleasant experience.
March 23, 2022
This is a well written and intriguing book. The main characters are fun, interesting, and with good character. The evil character is indeed despicable and the story is a good one. The plot is easily followed and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 28, 2022
The Charm Runner
Wow!!! What a gr8 story. Winnie is a strong young woman faced with many obstacles. I'm looking forward to reading the next book. I recommend this read. 5 Thumbs up
Wow!!! What a gr8 story. Winnie is a strong young woman faced with many obstacles. I'm looking forward to reading the next book. I recommend this read. 5 Thumbs up
April 10, 2022
I stopped reading at 66%.
I've been intrigued by everything going on, but I'm bored.
Winnie and Danny are great. The magic and word going on wrapped up around the magic is great.
I'm just bored with the story.
I have to move on. I might come back to it.
I've been intrigued by everything going on, but I'm bored.
Winnie and Danny are great. The magic and word going on wrapped up around the magic is great.
I'm just bored with the story.
I have to move on. I might come back to it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews