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The Fairy Tale Enchantress #3
Reign of Magic
Angelique’s spirit is almost broken.
She has sacrificed, she has trained, and she has driven herself to exhaustion while battling her way across the continent. But all her efforts have led to nothing. She still hasn’t uncovered Evariste’s location, or the identity of his captors.
Yet the occurrences of evil magic across the continent show no sign of slowing. Wyverns, goblins, trolls, and other evil creatures have become almost commonplace. And the attacks on the royal families and her fellow mages have continued to escalate.
When Angelique is ambushed by one of those who kidnapped Evariste, she is forced to face the truth: her core magic—which she despises—may be the only thing standing between her world and the coming darkness.
For those who have captured Evariste aren’t finished.
And their plans are far older and more devastating than anyone could have guessed.
She has sacrificed, she has trained, and she has driven herself to exhaustion while battling her way across the continent. But all her efforts have led to nothing. She still hasn’t uncovered Evariste’s location, or the identity of his captors.
Yet the occurrences of evil magic across the continent show no sign of slowing. Wyverns, goblins, trolls, and other evil creatures have become almost commonplace. And the attacks on the royal families and her fellow mages have continued to escalate.
When Angelique is ambushed by one of those who kidnapped Evariste, she is forced to face the truth: her core magic—which she despises—may be the only thing standing between her world and the coming darkness.
For those who have captured Evariste aren’t finished.
And their plans are far older and more devastating than anyone could have guessed.
569 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2019
734 people are currently reading
664 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Shea
119 books4,794 followersMy pen name is K. M. Shea, but my readers—I prefer to call them Champions—call me Kitty.
I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
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VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...
VISIT MY WEBSITE
https://kmshea.com/
I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
VISIT MY FACEBOOK GROUP
https://www.facebook.com/groups/27090...
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...
VISIT MY WEBSITE
https://kmshea.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
October 13, 2019
I want to preface this by saying I love K.M. Shea, and I've been devouring everything she's written since I discovered her this past year. I wanted to love this book, but it felt like a laundry list of tasks Angelique had to do to catch up from the previous series. The execution with regard to interweaving multiple books seamlessly is absolutely impressive, but the following spoiler bit is why I couldn't give higher than 3 stars. I also had no sense of time or place in this book because she's sprinting around the continent having the same dialogue she had in the previous series.
I will say K.M. Shea is a fantastic author, I'm just tired of reading what I've already seen, or plot so close to it that it didn't feel like enough of a payoff. The original content was great, but sparse in comparison to the repetition. I will faithfully keep reading, mostly because in dying to know what happens. I just wanted to warn anyone who hoped like they were going to get more plot progression than was really there.
I will say K.M. Shea is a fantastic author, I'm just tired of reading what I've already seen, or plot so close to it that it didn't feel like enough of a payoff. The original content was great, but sparse in comparison to the repetition. I will faithfully keep reading, mostly because in dying to know what happens. I just wanted to warn anyone who hoped like they were going to get more plot progression than was really there.
March 14, 2020
Fantastic series! I love how we got to see more of Evariste and Angelique and see how their romance is going.
I can’t believe there are 3 more books still left in this series and non have been released yet! No! Why do I have to wait so long!
Such a great storyline. This deals with most of the events that happened in books 7-9 in the Timeless series. I believe the next book would most likely deal with book 10 and 11.
I can’t wait to see how this series will end! Super excited!
I can’t believe there are 3 more books still left in this series and non have been released yet! No! Why do I have to wait so long!
Such a great storyline. This deals with most of the events that happened in books 7-9 in the Timeless series. I believe the next book would most likely deal with book 10 and 11.
I can’t wait to see how this series will end! Super excited!
October 12, 2019
Disappointing
I understand that this is supposed to be the Enchantress POV of the previous fairy tale series, but after the first book, the story just drags. Pretty much, the last two books have been a mix of EVERY Enchantress scene in the other series. And I do mean EVERY, whether relevant to current story or not. And if you’ve never read any of the previous fairy tale series or the Snow Queen series, good luck. The only reason why I gave it 2 stars (as opposed to none) is that despite all my issues with the book, I am still going to pick up the next book because I need to see how it ends. Hopefully, it won’t drag through another fifty hundred fairy tales because I do like Evariste and his apprentice. I hope to read more about them and not another rehash of fairy tales I’ve already read.
I understand that this is supposed to be the Enchantress POV of the previous fairy tale series, but after the first book, the story just drags. Pretty much, the last two books have been a mix of EVERY Enchantress scene in the other series. And I do mean EVERY, whether relevant to current story or not. And if you’ve never read any of the previous fairy tale series or the Snow Queen series, good luck. The only reason why I gave it 2 stars (as opposed to none) is that despite all my issues with the book, I am still going to pick up the next book because I need to see how it ends. Hopefully, it won’t drag through another fifty hundred fairy tales because I do like Evariste and his apprentice. I hope to read more about them and not another rehash of fairy tales I’ve already read.
October 14, 2019
THIS. BOOK. IS. AMAZING.
I'm trying to come up with words for this review, and it's probably going to turn into intelligible fangirl squeals.
This book is a feat of writing. It's a book I don't think this author could have pulled off a few years ago, and it just goes to show how far she has come as an author. There are so many storylines and threads and everything pulling together and building for the next three books in this series. They are going to be downright amazing. I can tell that much already!
Poor Angelique! So much rests on her shoulders in this book! She is frazzled and fraying and it isn't until she looses her temper that people even see it past her polished mask. I loved seeing all the scenes from past books from her POV, especially the ones with Stil. I love Stil already, and his stubborn loyalty to Angelique is so adorable. He is such a good little brother to him, and I love how she is a protective older sister with all the mixed feelings of watching her little brother grow up and get married.
In this book, we get to see all the side battles that Angelique does in the Timeless Fairy Tales, not to mention the missions of her own that no one else knew about. Thanks to the previous book and this book, I feel like I finally have something of a handle on the overlapping, intricate timeline of all the Timeless Fairy Tale books. So many of the events of those books overlap each other, so it was nice to finally be able to piece when everything happened.
Evariste's scenes were the biggest surprise, since nothing of those appear in the TFT series books. Poor, poor, poor Evariste! The twists with him! Those dreams!!!!!! Eeep!!!!!!!
This book brings up right up to the events that happen in Twelve Dancing Princesses and Snow White in the Timeless Fairy Tale series. I can't wait for the next book where we will see Angelique really begin to unleash her powers! Though, the ending scenes of this book make me really worry for her state of mind in the coming books!
There are finally answers to a few of the big questions, though many, many more questions remain. I CAN'T WAIT for the next book!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm trying to come up with words for this review, and it's probably going to turn into intelligible fangirl squeals.
This book is a feat of writing. It's a book I don't think this author could have pulled off a few years ago, and it just goes to show how far she has come as an author. There are so many storylines and threads and everything pulling together and building for the next three books in this series. They are going to be downright amazing. I can tell that much already!
Poor Angelique! So much rests on her shoulders in this book! She is frazzled and fraying and it isn't until she looses her temper that people even see it past her polished mask. I loved seeing all the scenes from past books from her POV, especially the ones with Stil. I love Stil already, and his stubborn loyalty to Angelique is so adorable. He is such a good little brother to him, and I love how she is a protective older sister with all the mixed feelings of watching her little brother grow up and get married.
In this book, we get to see all the side battles that Angelique does in the Timeless Fairy Tales, not to mention the missions of her own that no one else knew about. Thanks to the previous book and this book, I feel like I finally have something of a handle on the overlapping, intricate timeline of all the Timeless Fairy Tale books. So many of the events of those books overlap each other, so it was nice to finally be able to piece when everything happened.
Evariste's scenes were the biggest surprise, since nothing of those appear in the TFT series books. Poor, poor, poor Evariste! The twists with him! Those dreams!!!!!! Eeep!!!!!!!
This book brings up right up to the events that happen in Twelve Dancing Princesses and Snow White in the Timeless Fairy Tale series. I can't wait for the next book where we will see Angelique really begin to unleash her powers! Though, the ending scenes of this book make me really worry for her state of mind in the coming books!
There are finally answers to a few of the big questions, though many, many more questions remain. I CAN'T WAIT for the next book!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 13, 2019
REALLY DISAPPOINTING
This was supposed to be a trilogy. Nope. Instead we have a third book full of whining Angelique refusing to use her core magic when necessary. Despite everyone she trusts and respects telling her she is a good person she still insists she is a monster. IT IS SO TEDIOUS. And this book is so long. And now we have to suffer through her self condemning, self crippling angst for at least one more book. We haven't even caught up with the rest of the series yet. This series is dragging on too long. Angelique is powerful but pathetic and not an enjoyable heroine. Sad. Sad. Sad.
This was supposed to be a trilogy. Nope. Instead we have a third book full of whining Angelique refusing to use her core magic when necessary. Despite everyone she trusts and respects telling her she is a good person she still insists she is a monster. IT IS SO TEDIOUS. And this book is so long. And now we have to suffer through her self condemning, self crippling angst for at least one more book. We haven't even caught up with the rest of the series yet. This series is dragging on too long. Angelique is powerful but pathetic and not an enjoyable heroine. Sad. Sad. Sad.
February 1, 2020
Cliff Hanger Hell
Rating: 3 1/2 stars
This series is taking too long. It picks up momentum and stalls. Disappointing. Upside is that Angelique has evolved. But I won't hurry to read the next one. Not after this lame ending.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars
This series is taking too long. It picks up momentum and stalls. Disappointing. Upside is that Angelique has evolved. But I won't hurry to read the next one. Not after this lame ending.
October 13, 2019
Wow. Just WOW
I first read K.M Shea’s tale of Robyn Hood many years ago. Since then, I’ve devoured every single one of her books and have anxiously awaited her up and coming series about Angelique.
I loved it. What more can you say about a book that brings so many lovable, goofy, hilarious, and courageous characters from the Timeless Fairy Tales that I’ve come to adore into one series, and see it all through Angelique’s eyes? I LOVED IT!!!! To get the full effect of the Angelique series, read the Timeless Fairy Tales first. You will not be disappointed.
Angel is a beautiful soul, so hurt by those around her, but with a strength of will to keep going despite all odds. A perfectly imperfect inspiring heroin for all ages! I felt connected to her, and in so many ways, she was so very REAL. Not just a perfect overpowered superhero, but a real girl trying to survive in a world that despised her.
I have no words for just how much I adore Angelique and her motley crew of nobles, smugglers, royals, creatures, and mages. Pegasus is a dream. Elle and her lovable Prince are hilarious, Cinderella is just as thrifty and Frederick still calls her Pet, Puss and Gabrielle are as sarcastic as ever, and we finally see exactly why (through Angel’s wily thoughts) Lucien was turned into a frog. So many of my favorite characters. It’s a riot catching up with the favorite characters you feel as if you know and love.
A clean, delightful read filled with characters that are unique in a world of lore and beauty and nobility of heart. I am dying to know what happens next. Please, oh please, I know you must write out the next and get it ready for publishing, but I’m DYING HERE!!! Can the next one come out ASAP? :)
I first read K.M Shea’s tale of Robyn Hood many years ago. Since then, I’ve devoured every single one of her books and have anxiously awaited her up and coming series about Angelique.
I loved it. What more can you say about a book that brings so many lovable, goofy, hilarious, and courageous characters from the Timeless Fairy Tales that I’ve come to adore into one series, and see it all through Angelique’s eyes? I LOVED IT!!!! To get the full effect of the Angelique series, read the Timeless Fairy Tales first. You will not be disappointed.
Angel is a beautiful soul, so hurt by those around her, but with a strength of will to keep going despite all odds. A perfectly imperfect inspiring heroin for all ages! I felt connected to her, and in so many ways, she was so very REAL. Not just a perfect overpowered superhero, but a real girl trying to survive in a world that despised her.
I have no words for just how much I adore Angelique and her motley crew of nobles, smugglers, royals, creatures, and mages. Pegasus is a dream. Elle and her lovable Prince are hilarious, Cinderella is just as thrifty and Frederick still calls her Pet, Puss and Gabrielle are as sarcastic as ever, and we finally see exactly why (through Angel’s wily thoughts) Lucien was turned into a frog. So many of my favorite characters. It’s a riot catching up with the favorite characters you feel as if you know and love.
A clean, delightful read filled with characters that are unique in a world of lore and beauty and nobility of heart. I am dying to know what happens next. Please, oh please, I know you must write out the next and get it ready for publishing, but I’m DYING HERE!!! Can the next one come out ASAP? :)
October 20, 2019
Love the story, hate the main character
I appreciate the creativity of the story and how other fairy tales are interwoven, but I can’t stand the weakness and lack of growth by the main character Angelique. I had hoped by the end of book three she didn’t hate her magic so much and was open to finding love.
I appreciate the creativity of the story and how other fairy tales are interwoven, but I can’t stand the weakness and lack of growth by the main character Angelique. I had hoped by the end of book three she didn’t hate her magic so much and was open to finding love.
April 10, 2020
I'm afraid that if I don't read this book immediately upon finishing book 2, I won't finish this series at all. This series really should only be a trilogy or at most a quartet. Angelique's reluctance to use her core magic is still following her around in this book. :((((( And Evariste needs to be rescued already!
Upon finishing, I'd give this 1.5 stars. It was super frustrating, and the h hasn't demonstrated enough development for me to care about this series. I was hoping that there would also be more plot development, especially given the many pages this book has, but it seems like the author really wants to make this tie in with all of her fairy tale retelling stories, so it's been really slow going. I'm sad because I love Evariste, but I don't love how emotionally stupid the heroine is.
Upon finishing, I'd give this 1.5 stars. It was super frustrating, and the h hasn't demonstrated enough development for me to care about this series. I was hoping that there would also be more plot development, especially given the many pages this book has, but it seems like the author really wants to make this tie in with all of her fairy tale retelling stories, so it's been really slow going. I'm sad because I love Evariste, but I don't love how emotionally stupid the heroine is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2019
Worth the Wait! Amazing read!
After several long months of waiting, K.M. Shea has finally released her new book, and the long wait was so worth it!I am amazed at the quality of this book! The story crafting is incredibly detailed. The author managed to weave together her Timeless Fairy Tale books and the Snow Queen’s series without contradicting or missing any details. In fact, every page holds hidden information that you’ll likely miss unless you’ve read her other books. While I could see how Angelique’s continued refusal of her magic even into book 3 would annoy people, it fits with her character. The slow character development is supplemented with rich attention to detail and gradually (or not so gradually in some cases) rising stakes that set up for what we all know is going to happen in the near future if you’ve been keeping up with the series. It would make no sense to speed up the process because you’d lose out on what makes the book so good. The author’s ability to create well-rounded characters, craft the individual personalities of the nations, and bring to life her world are nothing short of stunning.
While it is not necessary to read the author’s other two series, you will miss key details. To get the maximum enjoyment out of this book, you will want to have the background knowledge that will reveal the genius behind those key details and hidden Easter eggs. If you are debating whether or not to read all of them, let me assure you that unlike many authors, I could and I have read 15 books of K.M. Shea’s writing, and despite not taking a break to read books by other authors, I still thoroughly enjoyed the entire process without tiring of her writing style. That’s how compelling her writing is. You won’t regret reading K.M. Shea’s books if you read them as they’re meant to be read. It’s like Tolkien’s The Silmarillion, The Hobbit, and The Lord of the Rings. You could read all of them separately, but to fully understand the magnitude of what these authors have achieved, you would want to read all three parts and the appendices (in this book’s case the short stories K.M. Shea posts on her website).
In conclusion, Reign of Magic is a masterpiece, and I can’t wait until the second half of Angelique’s series is released!
After several long months of waiting, K.M. Shea has finally released her new book, and the long wait was so worth it!I am amazed at the quality of this book! The story crafting is incredibly detailed. The author managed to weave together her Timeless Fairy Tale books and the Snow Queen’s series without contradicting or missing any details. In fact, every page holds hidden information that you’ll likely miss unless you’ve read her other books. While I could see how Angelique’s continued refusal of her magic even into book 3 would annoy people, it fits with her character. The slow character development is supplemented with rich attention to detail and gradually (or not so gradually in some cases) rising stakes that set up for what we all know is going to happen in the near future if you’ve been keeping up with the series. It would make no sense to speed up the process because you’d lose out on what makes the book so good. The author’s ability to create well-rounded characters, craft the individual personalities of the nations, and bring to life her world are nothing short of stunning.
While it is not necessary to read the author’s other two series, you will miss key details. To get the maximum enjoyment out of this book, you will want to have the background knowledge that will reveal the genius behind those key details and hidden Easter eggs. If you are debating whether or not to read all of them, let me assure you that unlike many authors, I could and I have read 15 books of K.M. Shea’s writing, and despite not taking a break to read books by other authors, I still thoroughly enjoyed the entire process without tiring of her writing style. That’s how compelling her writing is. You won’t regret reading K.M. Shea’s books if you read them as they’re meant to be read. It’s like Tolkien’s The Silmarillion, The Hobbit, and The Lord of the Rings. You could read all of them separately, but to fully understand the magnitude of what these authors have achieved, you would want to read all three parts and the appendices (in this book’s case the short stories K.M. Shea posts on her website).
In conclusion, Reign of Magic is a masterpiece, and I can’t wait until the second half of Angelique’s series is released!
October 18, 2019
I've been enjoying this series which is an overlapping series to another this author wrote. It won't be for everyone. Much like how some people like alternate perspective retellings of books and some people don't, this is sort of the same.
The Enchantress series offers a new perspective via Angelique in mostly overlapping events that have been included in the other series with some new stuff thrown in. Those that enjoy that sort of thing will enjoy the new series. Some will find it too redundant. What that says to me is that the author is doing this mostly for her fans. This new series is a lot of effort and work for something that has a reduced audience. I appreciate the risk she is taking with this.
These books are action/adventure/fantasy.
The Enchantress series offers a new perspective via Angelique in mostly overlapping events that have been included in the other series with some new stuff thrown in. Those that enjoy that sort of thing will enjoy the new series. Some will find it too redundant. What that says to me is that the author is doing this mostly for her fans. This new series is a lot of effort and work for something that has a reduced audience. I appreciate the risk she is taking with this.
These books are action/adventure/fantasy.
October 14, 2019
Starting to drag on.
This book was a great read, but it has stretched a bit far into now a forth book. I like the series, but the lose ends are tangled and a bit too long. Sadly book 4 won’t be out for a while, not sure if it’s worth the wait.
This book was a great read, but it has stretched a bit far into now a forth book. I like the series, but the lose ends are tangled and a bit too long. Sadly book 4 won’t be out for a while, not sure if it’s worth the wait.
December 21, 2021
It was getting super annoying that after two long books, the FMC Angelique was still resolved never to touch her core magic due to her fears, even to get more practice. Plus, there wasn't really much progress made in actually defeating any black mages, finding the leaks in the guild, and figuring out where Evariste was.
I understand the need to tie it in with the fairy tale stories in the other series, but the details really dragged on.
I understand the need to tie it in with the fairy tale stories in the other series, but the details really dragged on.
June 20, 2023
Barely 3 star. Seriously the never-ending, whiny internal monolog plus the hand wringing FOCUS of the FL is SOOOO AGGRAVATING.
The other characters and general plot are keeping me to book 4, but seriously we get it, she's traumatized but you'd think she'd LEARN that she's wrong by now. Yes, yes, phobia...but are you freaking kidding me? EVERY battle needs a paragraph about how she gates her core trait and won't use it?
The other characters and general plot are keeping me to book 4, but seriously we get it, she's traumatized but you'd think she'd LEARN that she's wrong by now. Yes, yes, phobia...but are you freaking kidding me? EVERY battle needs a paragraph about how she gates her core trait and won't use it?
May 8, 2020
Angelique's journey continues in
Reign of Magic
as we see her search for Everiste get closer and closer to it's end.
I love K.M. Shea, and the fairy tale stories, so I guess you can say I'm biased. But I am loving this series, and I love Angelique as a character. She does have issues with her magic and her self-esteem. However, she was crippled mentally regarding her powers, and that time moves differently for her as an echantress, so she's not gonna just get over it in one book.
We want characters with depth and originality, right? So what more depth than a heroine that isn't totally confident in her deadly powers and happens to have crippling insecurities? Some may be expecting Angelique to be the perfect heroine... which she's not. She struggles, she's afraid, and she's real.
I do feel this series wasn't planned out the best. It was planned to be a trilogy, so the author only scheduled 3 books in her work schedule. Spoiler below about what we go over in these books, but nothing that isn't too obvious.
Anyways, I was worried it would be a long time before we got these last books, but I shouldn't have. K.M. Shea is already working on these, and knowing her they will be wonderful. I can't wait to see this series all wrapped up!
I love K.M. Shea, and the fairy tale stories, so I guess you can say I'm biased. But I am loving this series, and I love Angelique as a character. She does have issues with her magic and her self-esteem. However, she was crippled mentally regarding her powers, and that time moves differently for her as an echantress, so she's not gonna just get over it in one book.
We want characters with depth and originality, right? So what more depth than a heroine that isn't totally confident in her deadly powers and happens to have crippling insecurities? Some may be expecting Angelique to be the perfect heroine... which she's not. She struggles, she's afraid, and she's real.
I do feel this series wasn't planned out the best. It was planned to be a trilogy, so the author only scheduled 3 books in her work schedule. Spoiler below about what we go over in these books, but nothing that isn't too obvious.
Anyways, I was worried it would be a long time before we got these last books, but I shouldn't have. K.M. Shea is already working on these, and knowing her they will be wonderful. I can't wait to see this series all wrapped up!
October 12, 2019
Angelique is a CHAMP. My goodness, she goes through so much in this book! But instead of crouching in some corner to cry, she finds a black mage to kick in the ribs. :D
Warning: Reign of Magic gives spoilers for every Timeless Fairytales book except Twelve Dancing Princesses. THANK GOODNESS for Snow White! Like in Curse of Magic, seeing TFT scenes from Angelique’s point of view provides new layers and glimpses into what’s going on before, during, and after those scenes. There are also a ton of new scenes, like Angel’s interactions with more smugglers than just the Black Swan Smugglers, her interactions with Conclave mages and black mages, etc. This book is a MASSIVE undertaking on Kitty’s part, and she brings it all together super well, connecting dots and laying groundwork and making it all entertaining!
Evariste – oh my goodness, Evariste! *cries* We do get more scenes from his perspective, but everything else I might say about him would be spoiler territory. Clovicus, Stil, and the various smugglers provide some much-needed comedic relief (Odette’s book wasn’t one of my favorites, but BLESS HER presence in Angelique’s life now!), and some Severin-and-Elle interactions are golden tension-breakers, too.
Pegasus gets some more depth in this book! It’s hard to give depth to a creature who doesn’t talk and has no PoV scenes, but somehow, Kitty pulls it off. He’s so supportive of Angelique and clearly loves her, but what’s his agenda that keeps him from doing much more than toting her around the continent? Also, what’s his deal with pumpkins? xD
As far as content ratings go, Reign of Magic is along the same lines as Apprentice of Magic and Curse of Magic. I love, love, love this series and am very much looking forward to the next book!
Warning: Reign of Magic gives spoilers for every Timeless Fairytales book except Twelve Dancing Princesses. THANK GOODNESS for Snow White! Like in Curse of Magic, seeing TFT scenes from Angelique’s point of view provides new layers and glimpses into what’s going on before, during, and after those scenes. There are also a ton of new scenes, like Angel’s interactions with more smugglers than just the Black Swan Smugglers, her interactions with Conclave mages and black mages, etc. This book is a MASSIVE undertaking on Kitty’s part, and she brings it all together super well, connecting dots and laying groundwork and making it all entertaining!
Evariste – oh my goodness, Evariste! *cries* We do get more scenes from his perspective, but everything else I might say about him would be spoiler territory. Clovicus, Stil, and the various smugglers provide some much-needed comedic relief (Odette’s book wasn’t one of my favorites, but BLESS HER presence in Angelique’s life now!), and some Severin-and-Elle interactions are golden tension-breakers, too.
Pegasus gets some more depth in this book! It’s hard to give depth to a creature who doesn’t talk and has no PoV scenes, but somehow, Kitty pulls it off. He’s so supportive of Angelique and clearly loves her, but what’s his agenda that keeps him from doing much more than toting her around the continent? Also, what’s his deal with pumpkins? xD
As far as content ratings go, Reign of Magic is along the same lines as Apprentice of Magic and Curse of Magic. I love, love, love this series and am very much looking forward to the next book!
October 13, 2019
I am not a long time KM Shea fan. I only stumbled onto her this spring. Having said that, I don’t think that I waited with any less eagerness than many of the veteran fans, for the release of this book. Yes, it was a while coming, but oh, was it worth it!
Over the past two books we’ve seen Angel grow and become more comfortable with herself and her magic. But in this book, there is exponential growth, even if it is subtle. However, for each triumph Angel pulls off, it seems that the Chosen and the Conclave have something to smack her in the face with.
It was wonderful seeing some of my favorite scenes and favorite characters through Angel’s eyes. She certainly has a unique perspective. I wish I could reach into the book and tell her that she’s going to be okay, that she’ll find Evariste, and that everything is going to come out right in the end.
However, I can’t do that. We know that there is still heartache in store for her, and her tale is certainly not ended. With a journey this far and hard, though, her destination must be good. To strengthen steel, it must first be heated to remove impurities.
And Evariste. Poor, poor Evariste. There isn’t much I can say about him without spoiling things. So, I’ll stick with this. You wouldn’t expect character growth in his situation, and yet, KM Shea manages to keep him round.
So, whether it’s the villains, or the heroes, or the quotes, this KM Shea book is my favorite yet. Almost, it’s only because I love heroines from other books as well, that I can’t say it is most certainly my favorite. And yet, it is a struggle not to.
If you get the chance to read this, you better have read at least Apprentice of Magic and Curse of Magic first, or you will miss out on so much. This book is definitely not a stand-alone.
Over the past two books we’ve seen Angel grow and become more comfortable with herself and her magic. But in this book, there is exponential growth, even if it is subtle. However, for each triumph Angel pulls off, it seems that the Chosen and the Conclave have something to smack her in the face with.
It was wonderful seeing some of my favorite scenes and favorite characters through Angel’s eyes. She certainly has a unique perspective. I wish I could reach into the book and tell her that she’s going to be okay, that she’ll find Evariste, and that everything is going to come out right in the end.
However, I can’t do that. We know that there is still heartache in store for her, and her tale is certainly not ended. With a journey this far and hard, though, her destination must be good. To strengthen steel, it must first be heated to remove impurities.
And Evariste. Poor, poor Evariste. There isn’t much I can say about him without spoiling things. So, I’ll stick with this. You wouldn’t expect character growth in his situation, and yet, KM Shea manages to keep him round.
So, whether it’s the villains, or the heroes, or the quotes, this KM Shea book is my favorite yet. Almost, it’s only because I love heroines from other books as well, that I can’t say it is most certainly my favorite. And yet, it is a struggle not to.
If you get the chance to read this, you better have read at least Apprentice of Magic and Curse of Magic first, or you will miss out on so much. This book is definitely not a stand-alone.
October 12, 2019
Book 3 of 5 (with 13 books already released books that should be read first)
I read reign of magic over 3 days. And truthfully, it seems like it covers more then 1 book's worth of content(which appreciated. The 2nd Angelique book while needed(it covers 3+years of searching for Evarste, people (like me) who had read her short stories on her website didn't get much new information <- that isn't the case for reign of Magic, RoM has a lot more new content and things that made me guess about the future (pumpkins?!) Reign of Magic is book 3 of 5 of Angelique's story but for most enjoyment you should read by K M Shea the snow queen trilogy, and the 10 timeless fairy tales, and then the 2 Angelique books that proceed it.
Content I wouldn't hesitate to give it to a child/adult who enjoyed KM Shea's other books. No sex, swearing or scenes that made me skim or cover my mental eyes.
Plotwise- loved the glimpses into Evareste's captivity. Loved Stil& Gemma's parts and Stil talking to Angelique. Liked re visiting several of the timeless fairy tales. Truly cannot wait for the next Angelique book. I'll probably be re reading snow white after posting this review.
I've got my fingers crossed that Evarste gets rescued next book BEFORE the end, because I'm dying (slight exaggeration) to know how their reunion goes down for them to start dealing with the threat from the mirror and chosen.
Overall, well reign of magic was well worth the wait. And I can't wait for the next book.
I read reign of magic over 3 days. And truthfully, it seems like it covers more then 1 book's worth of content(which appreciated. The 2nd Angelique book while needed(it covers 3+years of searching for Evarste, people (like me) who had read her short stories on her website didn't get much new information <- that isn't the case for reign of Magic, RoM has a lot more new content and things that made me guess about the future (pumpkins?!) Reign of Magic is book 3 of 5 of Angelique's story but for most enjoyment you should read by K M Shea the snow queen trilogy, and the 10 timeless fairy tales, and then the 2 Angelique books that proceed it.
Content I wouldn't hesitate to give it to a child/adult who enjoyed KM Shea's other books. No sex, swearing or scenes that made me skim or cover my mental eyes.
Plotwise- loved the glimpses into Evareste's captivity. Loved Stil& Gemma's parts and Stil talking to Angelique. Liked re visiting several of the timeless fairy tales. Truly cannot wait for the next Angelique book. I'll probably be re reading snow white after posting this review.
I've got my fingers crossed that Evarste gets rescued next book BEFORE the end, because I'm dying (slight exaggeration) to know how their reunion goes down for them to start dealing with the threat from the mirror and chosen.
Overall, well reign of magic was well worth the wait. And I can't wait for the next book.
October 13, 2019
Angelique and Evariste. My gosh, I don't think I've ever shipped two characters as much as I ship them. Talk about slow burn! I know they can't be together yet (there are still 3 more books coming) but I want them to be!🤣
K.M.Shea has once again outdone herself with this book. I've never known another author who could publish books as quickly as she does, and still have them be this good. If anything, there was too MUCH detail, but her precision in tying all the books together is unreal.
I absolutely adored all the Snow Queen tie-ins, and would definitely recommend reading the Snow Queen series, then all of Timeless Fairy Tales, THEN these books. Trust me on this, it makes everything even better (if that's possible)
Angelique grew so much in this book. Although she is quickly becoming one of my favourite characters out of all Shea's books, I was worried she wouldn't stand up for herself until Evariste came back. Wrong. This girl is a warrior. She is finally confronting some people about taking her for granted, and she really has become more confident.
That being said, this book was darker than the other 2. Angel does have more downs than ups, and I know it gets worse before it gets better. I know the next book will be even better, because this author never disappoints. Read these books!!! You won't regret it!
K.M.Shea has once again outdone herself with this book. I've never known another author who could publish books as quickly as she does, and still have them be this good. If anything, there was too MUCH detail, but her precision in tying all the books together is unreal.
I absolutely adored all the Snow Queen tie-ins, and would definitely recommend reading the Snow Queen series, then all of Timeless Fairy Tales, THEN these books. Trust me on this, it makes everything even better (if that's possible)
Angelique grew so much in this book. Although she is quickly becoming one of my favourite characters out of all Shea's books, I was worried she wouldn't stand up for herself until Evariste came back. Wrong. This girl is a warrior. She is finally confronting some people about taking her for granted, and she really has become more confident.
That being said, this book was darker than the other 2. Angel does have more downs than ups, and I know it gets worse before it gets better. I know the next book will be even better, because this author never disappoints. Read these books!!! You won't regret it!
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October 11, 2019Beautifully written
Angelique is the most valiant heroine I've ever read. She's been used, abused, called a monster, told she is unworthy and unlovable. Any ordinary person would just give up and wallow in their sadness. But not Angelique. She is valorous, incredibly strong, powerful, thoughtful, and dutiful. But she is also human. She is suffering, and this book paints an incredibly candid picture of what it's like to persevere through unbelievable pain and despair. It's not just pulling up your boot straps and not feeling any sadness. No. It's feeling the crushing sadness and persevering anyway.
I don't understand why other readers look for unrealistic perfection in protagonists. What makes this book so incredible is the fact that Angelique's life and journey isn't perfect, rather it's downright awful and she knows it... Yet she perseveres anyway. Reading about all of the pain she and Evariste go through will be worth it, as I know the emotional payoff will be wonderful in the next books. Such a good read.
Angelique is the most valiant heroine I've ever read. She's been used, abused, called a monster, told she is unworthy and unlovable. Any ordinary person would just give up and wallow in their sadness. But not Angelique. She is valorous, incredibly strong, powerful, thoughtful, and dutiful. But she is also human. She is suffering, and this book paints an incredibly candid picture of what it's like to persevere through unbelievable pain and despair. It's not just pulling up your boot straps and not feeling any sadness. No. It's feeling the crushing sadness and persevering anyway.
I don't understand why other readers look for unrealistic perfection in protagonists. What makes this book so incredible is the fact that Angelique's life and journey isn't perfect, rather it's downright awful and she knows it... Yet she perseveres anyway. Reading about all of the pain she and Evariste go through will be worth it, as I know the emotional payoff will be wonderful in the next books. Such a good read.
January 5, 2021
I really like this author. Book 1 was great, excellent character development. But books 2 & 3 sucked and were all filler. It was all the same: "I can't use my war magic" "I miss Everete" and rampaging all across the country with zero progress. I literally skimmed these 2 books to parts with Evariste and Clivus or something more interesting. The parts with the fairy tales contributed nothing to Angelique's character development or the plot. I thought this was a complete series so I just wanted to see if our hero would be rescued and how this would end but sadly had I known this would have been a DNF. There are too many unnecessary characters and this book is not up to par with Shea's other books. It seems like the author really struggled with what direction she would take with the book and doesn't seem to know how to even proceed. Hence our heroine running around in circles.
This series was a miss although I really recommend this author's recent books. I may try book 4 just out of curiosity to see if there is any improvement.
This series was a miss although I really recommend this author's recent books. I may try book 4 just out of curiosity to see if there is any improvement.
October 19, 2019
Good for another POV of the series, but offers nothing new for Angel
It's nice to get the another angle on the series. But, if you've read the first 2 of this series, that's all this series is. Book 3 offers nothing new in terms of Angel's storyline. Spoiler, she still hates herself, her magic, and is still a doormat to everyone else's negative opinions. Frankly, I've begun to dislike her. The main storyline - Angels search for Evariste, and her overcoming her self doubt to realize their love- is hardly present. The plot device used to bring them together abruptly disappears and nothing is truly gained from it in regards to their relationship. At least not from her end. And the final quarter of the book is just Angel prolonging everything because her magic is evil and she must angst over it again and again and again. I like Shea's writing, and I love her fairy tale series, but I'm done with Angel's story and will probably not bother to read the 4th book.
It's nice to get the another angle on the series. But, if you've read the first 2 of this series, that's all this series is. Book 3 offers nothing new in terms of Angel's storyline. Spoiler, she still hates herself, her magic, and is still a doormat to everyone else's negative opinions. Frankly, I've begun to dislike her. The main storyline - Angels search for Evariste, and her overcoming her self doubt to realize their love- is hardly present. The plot device used to bring them together abruptly disappears and nothing is truly gained from it in regards to their relationship. At least not from her end. And the final quarter of the book is just Angel prolonging everything because her magic is evil and she must angst over it again and again and again. I like Shea's writing, and I love her fairy tale series, but I'm done with Angel's story and will probably not bother to read the 4th book.
October 12, 2019
And so the mid-series suck finally strikes. We thought it was bad when Evariste was taken. This book is full of Angelique’s weariness and Evariste’s torture, peppered with a few heartwarming moments and humor. Unlike the last book, there were very few reveals (*cough* Rothbart). I think this book is mostly a bridge between prim enchantress Angelique and sassy Angel. In other words, a character development piece. She’s broken ties with the conclave, now she’s learning to stand up for herself against the demands of everyone else.
The main consensus after reading Reign of Magic? “I can’t wait for the next book! We’ll finally get Quin and sassy herbalist Angel!” Sorry, ROM, like most middle children, I think you’ll be overlooked in favor of the drama yet to come.
Considering reading this series? Don’t start here. Start with KM Shea’s Timeless Fairytale Series.
The main consensus after reading Reign of Magic? “I can’t wait for the next book! We’ll finally get Quin and sassy herbalist Angel!” Sorry, ROM, like most middle children, I think you’ll be overlooked in favor of the drama yet to come.
Considering reading this series? Don’t start here. Start with KM Shea’s Timeless Fairytale Series.
November 6, 2019
This is absolutely my favorite book thus far in the series! Making it longer and putting more time into the parts of the story that are Angelique's perspective only improved vastly on the way parts of the Timeless Fairy Tales were rehashed in the previous book. Having more events stretched out while maintaining the established time line was a good narrative choice of Shea's.
Additionally, I loved that Angelique's voice was more developed in this story. The narrative moving forward from the ending of the second book and giving Angelique a more head-strong and determined nature was delightful. I also appreciated seeing more glimpses of just how tired she is after five years of managing the continent's problems herself.
I am absolutely hooked and I can't wait for the next installment!
Additionally, I loved that Angelique's voice was more developed in this story. The narrative moving forward from the ending of the second book and giving Angelique a more head-strong and determined nature was delightful. I also appreciated seeing more glimpses of just how tired she is after five years of managing the continent's problems herself.
I am absolutely hooked and I can't wait for the next installment!
October 11, 2019
I seriously loved this book. It was worth the six month wait. The book was filled with a roller coaster of emotions. I am glad that I have read Snow White. The book covers the time period of Rumpelstiltskin, the Frog Prince, Swan Lake, and Sleeping Beauty. I would reccomend reading these books before this one so the events of the story would make more sense. Angel was a delight. Her sarcastic point of view provided many humorous moments. Her character is one that is easy to connect to as she struggles to come to accept who she is. The next book I am sure will continue her journey. I loved her interactions with Stil. My favorite character was definitely Rothbart. He had me cracking up while also crying.
December 23, 2020
This is well worth the wait. That being said, I cannot wait for the next book to be written! I continue to love seeing what Angelique is going through behind the scenes, so to speak, of the other fairy tales. The length is completely necessary and flew by. I didn't feel like I was reading an overly long book; it was just right. No dragging or superfluous scenes/details.
And speaking of details, I'm definitely going to have to read this one again to try and catch what I missed the first time. I saw a good number of things that I have questions about, but I'm sure there are more. Great job, Kitty. Keep up the good work! After a relaxing and sufficiently long break, of course.
And speaking of details, I'm definitely going to have to read this one again to try and catch what I missed the first time. I saw a good number of things that I have questions about, but I'm sure there are more. Great job, Kitty. Keep up the good work! After a relaxing and sufficiently long break, of course.
April 21, 2020
Really disappointing
I really love km sheas books and pushed through number 2 in this series as I hoped number 3 would bring it all together. However it was just repetitive and didn’t develop much on characters. It felt like we were just re living the adventures from the individual fairytale books. I wanted more about Evariste and Angel and thought they could’ve had these adventures together instead of still being a part. I got the the end and was so disappointed and felt like I wasted my time reading. I will still read the next but most likely will fast forward through just to get some closure. Really sad as the first book was great.
I really love km sheas books and pushed through number 2 in this series as I hoped number 3 would bring it all together. However it was just repetitive and didn’t develop much on characters. It felt like we were just re living the adventures from the individual fairytale books. I wanted more about Evariste and Angel and thought they could’ve had these adventures together instead of still being a part. I got the the end and was so disappointed and felt like I wasted my time reading. I will still read the next but most likely will fast forward through just to get some closure. Really sad as the first book was great.
November 5, 2025
Reign of Magic was well worth the wait
Reign of Magic did not disappoint. It was amazing to read how Angelique handled the increase of demands for her time. And it was interesting to see the Mages meetings and thoughts during the Summit. I really enjoyed how as the book went on Angelique let her mask fall and crack more often, and how she realised that she was making friends with the royals. The dreams I wasn't expecting, I cannot wait for Angelique to confront the fact that Evariste nearly kissed her. Dying for book 4 already.
Reign of Magic did not disappoint. It was amazing to read how Angelique handled the increase of demands for her time. And it was interesting to see the Mages meetings and thoughts during the Summit. I really enjoyed how as the book went on Angelique let her mask fall and crack more often, and how she realised that she was making friends with the royals. The dreams I wasn't expecting, I cannot wait for Angelique to confront the fact that Evariste nearly kissed her. Dying for book 4 already.
October 12, 2019
I absolutely loved this latest installment in Angelique's story! So many unexpected moments: some touching, some funny, some heart-rending. K. M. Shea does an excellent job of making you care deeply about the characters and their suffering. This is not a series to pick up and just begin reading in the middle, but if you've read the previous books in the Fairytale Enchantress series, you definitely don't want to miss this one. (And if you haven't read the others in the series, go read them and then read this one!)
And seriously, we need to know what's up with Pegasus and the pumpkins.
And seriously, we need to know what's up with Pegasus and the pumpkins.
October 12, 2019
Couldn't put it down
I loved reading this part of Angelique and Evariste's story. The tie ins with the Timeless Fairytale series puts this so close to where that series ended. It was amazing to see events through Angelique's eyes. This book made me laugh at times and cry at others. And some of the characters made me so angry and disgusted with their treatment of Angelique. I can't wait for the story to continue in the next book! I have so many theories that I'm eager to see if they're true.
I loved reading this part of Angelique and Evariste's story. The tie ins with the Timeless Fairytale series puts this so close to where that series ended. It was amazing to see events through Angelique's eyes. This book made me laugh at times and cry at others. And some of the characters made me so angry and disgusted with their treatment of Angelique. I can't wait for the story to continue in the next book! I have so many theories that I'm eager to see if they're true.
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