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Magical Mates #1
All Kidding Aside
Building houses for a pack of orphans might lead one griffin to find his heart’s home.
Victor Eastaughffe knows three things for a fact:
-He does not have a mate.
-He does not like children.
-His duty is to his griffin clan.
When Victor meets Orsen Riggs, a scruffy bear shifter, and little Gus, an orphaned red panda cub, his orderly, structured world becomes messy and chaotic. All the things he once held true suddenly don’t make sense.
Asked to help the Smith pack navigate the difficult world of shifter politics, Victor realizes he might not know himself as well as he thought. Magic is in the air, and it’s making him long for things he never wanted before. But duty comes before all else, even at a price Victor no longer wants to pay.
Victor Eastaughffe knows three things for a fact:
-He does not have a mate.
-He does not like children.
-His duty is to his griffin clan.
When Victor meets Orsen Riggs, a scruffy bear shifter, and little Gus, an orphaned red panda cub, his orderly, structured world becomes messy and chaotic. All the things he once held true suddenly don’t make sense.
Asked to help the Smith pack navigate the difficult world of shifter politics, Victor realizes he might not know himself as well as he thought. Magic is in the air, and it’s making him long for things he never wanted before. But duty comes before all else, even at a price Victor no longer wants to pay.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2020
539 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
About the author
Macy Blake
55 books702 followersMacy Blake believes in unicorns and fairies, in moonbeams and stardust, and that happily ever after comes in all colors of the rainbow. When she’s not busy at the day job, she loses herself in paranormal romance, living vicariously through her favorite sexy fictional heroes. These days you can often find her pounding away at the keyboard, trying to capture the magic of her own worlds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
August 4, 2020
After the "Chosen One" prequel book being such a huge hit for me, as soon as I saw that there was a spin-off book about Nick and the rescued shifter kids, I was sooooooo there for it. : )
Riggs was a bear shifter, working construction, only passing through the area, who got enlisted to help Nick finish all of the housing for his new pack and their soon-to-be parents, with no expectations of the situation becoming permanent.
And griffin shifter Victor, Eduard's cousin from the earlier "Chosen One" stories, got roped into working on-site long-term to help Nick with the new construction and day-to-day minutiae of running the pack's affairs.
The men were fine with their predicaments, then when Nick makes them housemates, and Gus, an adorable, snack-loving red panda shifter toddler, decided they were both his, things took a decisive turn straight into sweet and adorable territory.
But Victor had never liked kids, so seeing his well-ordered existence suddenly covered in sticky hand prints and run-of-the-mill baby goo was hilarious to see.
Unlike the previous "Chosen One / Hellhounds" books, other than a single run-in with a powerful fae, every single ounce of drama here was from Victor freaking out about losing his heart to both a red panda cub and a snuggly bear, which I loved, but I also missed the constant action.
Although this story was extremely well done, I can say with high certainty that it won't be for everyone, because little Gus wasn't only present here, he was pretty omni-present, with what felt like the vast majority of the scenes majorly revolving around him.
And there was kid-speak. Lots and lots and LOTS of kid-speak, but I was extremely grateful that the author entirely omitted the adults speaking in baby talk. If that had been a thing in this book, I'm sure even my kid-loving head would've eventually exploded.
My favorite parts of this story were the damaged kids finding their homes with loving parents, especially gruffy Walt and his little kitchen protégé, which was goddamn adorable to witness. My heart could barely take the "you're ridiculous" scenes.
My *least* favorite part, however, was Victor's reaction when his feelings overwhelmed him. I wanted to strangle him, then throw him into a helicopter to make him confront his fears, so yeah, I was an itty bit frustrated with that plot point.
The steam was okay, but I had a slight bad taste in my mouth after the first back-to-back-to-back sex scene, which I eventually gave up on and skimmed through, since three orgasm scenes in a row... wow, that's a lot.
As a whole, I'd rate the book at around 3.5 stars and I am looking forward to the next story in this new spinoff series, but I'd only recommend this one to readers who don't mind kids always being on-page. And yeah, I do pretty much mean *always* always.
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April 4, 2023
Reread 8/3/2020 yes. I read it again. What of it? 😒 I had a crap day and decided that Gus-Gus was the answer.
reread # who knows? 8/31/2020 I've read this so many times since it came out. I've just given up on counting (or bothering to count them all here). Comfort rereads are the name of the game right now.
Reread 3/14/2021 I’ve been doing a Chosen One Universe reread instead of finishing an untold number of series on my million mile long list of books that I own but haven’t read. Oh well 🤷🏽♀️. Gus-Gus for the win!
Reread 8/21/2021
8/26/2021 I’ve re-read the entire Chosen One Universe (minus Magical Mates book 2) so that I can go back and re-read Logan: Chosen Champions Book One to see if i missed anything. Needless to say, i obviously love this series enough to read it a bazillion times in short order
———-original review 8/1/2020————-
I needed this. I smiled and grinned through the majority of the book. Gus was the best. He was a major part of the story without taking over. I would love to how much time has passed from the end of Stop at Nothing to the start of this.
Though I think this might work as a stand alone, I think you’d have more context if you’ve read the rest of the books in the Chosen One Universe. It’s worth it. Most things from the previous books are sort of explained, but I think it added so much more knowing some things going in.
I can’t wait to see who the next book will be about.
Suggested Reading Order
Sweet Nothings – Prequel – The Chosen One
The Trouble With Love – Nothing But Trouble, Book 1
Santa Trouble – Nothing But Trouble, Book 2
All or Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 1
Nothing Ventured – The Chosen One, Book 2
Hell on Earth – Hellhound Champions, Book 1
Double or Nothing
Next to Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 3
Hell To Pay – Hellhound Champions, Book 2
Give Him Hell – Hellhound Champions, Book 3
Nothing Gained – The Chosen One, Book 4
Stop at Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 5
Sweet Spot
All Kidding Aside – Magical Mates, Book 1
Stop Kidding Around – Magical Mates, Book 2
I Kid You Not – Magical Mates, Book 3
Sugar Honey Iced Tea – Magical Mates, Book 3.5
Hell Breaks Loose – Hellhound Champions, Book 4
Logan – Chosen Champions, Book 1
Gideon – Chosen Champions, Book 2
Jamal – Chosen Champions, Book 2.5
Cosmo and the King
Aleron – Chosen Champions, Book 3
Scout – Chosen Champions, Book 4
With Kid Gloves – Magical Mates, Book 4
reread # who knows? 8/31/2020 I've read this so many times since it came out. I've just given up on counting (or bothering to count them all here). Comfort rereads are the name of the game right now.
Reread 3/14/2021 I’ve been doing a Chosen One Universe reread instead of finishing an untold number of series on my million mile long list of books that I own but haven’t read. Oh well 🤷🏽♀️. Gus-Gus for the win!
Reread 8/21/2021
8/26/2021 I’ve re-read the entire Chosen One Universe (minus Magical Mates book 2) so that I can go back and re-read Logan: Chosen Champions Book One to see if i missed anything. Needless to say, i obviously love this series enough to read it a bazillion times in short order
———-original review 8/1/2020————-
I needed this. I smiled and grinned through the majority of the book. Gus was the best. He was a major part of the story without taking over. I would love to how much time has passed from the end of Stop at Nothing to the start of this.
Though I think this might work as a stand alone, I think you’d have more context if you’ve read the rest of the books in the Chosen One Universe. It’s worth it. Most things from the previous books are sort of explained, but I think it added so much more knowing some things going in.
I can’t wait to see who the next book will be about.
Suggested Reading Order
Sweet Nothings – Prequel – The Chosen One
The Trouble With Love – Nothing But Trouble, Book 1
Santa Trouble – Nothing But Trouble, Book 2
All or Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 1
Nothing Ventured – The Chosen One, Book 2
Hell on Earth – Hellhound Champions, Book 1
Double or Nothing
Next to Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 3
Hell To Pay – Hellhound Champions, Book 2
Give Him Hell – Hellhound Champions, Book 3
Nothing Gained – The Chosen One, Book 4
Stop at Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 5
Sweet Spot
All Kidding Aside – Magical Mates, Book 1
Stop Kidding Around – Magical Mates, Book 2
I Kid You Not – Magical Mates, Book 3
Sugar Honey Iced Tea – Magical Mates, Book 3.5
Hell Breaks Loose – Hellhound Champions, Book 4
Logan – Chosen Champions, Book 1
Gideon – Chosen Champions, Book 2
Jamal – Chosen Champions, Book 2.5
Cosmo and the King
Aleron – Chosen Champions, Book 3
Scout – Chosen Champions, Book 4
With Kid Gloves – Magical Mates, Book 4
February 23, 2024
Reread February 2024
I enjoyed this more this time.
Originally read August 2020
I loved this for the most part. Both Riggs and Victor deserved a mate and little Gus-Gus was the sweetest piece to bring them together.
Now, Victor got on my nerves a little with his denial that he couldn't have Riggs or Gus and I wanted to strangle him when he ran. I hate runners. But I was equally disappointed in Riggs that he didn't go after Victor and demand he come home. Other than that, it would have been the perfect mate story. I'm looking forward to more in the series. I love Nick's pack!
I enjoyed this more this time.
Originally read August 2020
I loved this for the most part. Both Riggs and Victor deserved a mate and little Gus-Gus was the sweetest piece to bring them together.
Now, Victor got on my nerves a little with his denial that he couldn't have Riggs or Gus and I wanted to strangle him when he ran. I hate runners. But I was equally disappointed in Riggs that he didn't go after Victor and demand he come home. Other than that, it would have been the perfect mate story. I'm looking forward to more in the series. I love Nick's pack!
January 22, 2025
3.5 Stars
All Kidding Aside was so sweet, I'm pretty sure I need to see my dentist. I love the universe this series takes place in and I am looking forward to seeing where this part of it goes. I miss the conflict we had in the last 2 series over the bullheadedness we get so far, here, however.
I did enjoy All Kidding Aside...but...Victor held onto his abject stubbornness way too fucking long. Seriously, for over 3/4 of the book there was a constant refrain in his inner monologue that Riggs and Gus weren't his and would never be his...over and over, ad nauseum. Let me tell ya, that wore on my nerves. When Victor wasn't being a self defeating inner-crybaby, I enjoyed the dynamic between him and Riggs. And once Victor got his head forcibly removed from his ass, the book finished on a super sweet and cute note.
Gus didn't annoy me as much as I expected, to be honest, even though he was hella repetitive, too, but he at least had the excuse of being a toddler...with a four word vocabulary. I'm wondering if this whole series is going to be so kid-focused? I kinda hope not (just a personal preference), but I guess we'll see.
All Kidding Aside was so sweet, I'm pretty sure I need to see my dentist. I love the universe this series takes place in and I am looking forward to seeing where this part of it goes. I miss the conflict we had in the last 2 series over the bullheadedness we get so far, here, however.
I did enjoy All Kidding Aside...but...Victor held onto his abject stubbornness way too fucking long. Seriously, for over 3/4 of the book there was a constant refrain in his inner monologue that Riggs and Gus weren't his and would never be his...over and over, ad nauseum. Let me tell ya, that wore on my nerves. When Victor wasn't being a self defeating inner-crybaby, I enjoyed the dynamic between him and Riggs. And once Victor got his head forcibly removed from his ass, the book finished on a super sweet and cute note.
Gus didn't annoy me as much as I expected, to be honest, even though he was hella repetitive, too, but he at least had the excuse of being a toddler...with a four word vocabulary. I'm wondering if this whole series is going to be so kid-focused? I kinda hope not (just a personal preference), but I guess we'll see.
August 21, 2020
Loved this new series starter
Victor finds his family in a really lovely opening entry to this new series from Macy set in the Chosen Universe.
I adored Riggs and Gus, the cutest red panda shifter in the whole world ❤
Loved how Macy set up this new series which is going to be following the extended family now that mates are a thing again.
There's guest appearances from most of the usual suspects and the secondary plot lines are focused on how the supernatural world is dealing with the new magic and all the orphaned cubs.
Victor finds his family in a really lovely opening entry to this new series from Macy set in the Chosen Universe.
I adored Riggs and Gus, the cutest red panda shifter in the whole world ❤
Loved how Macy set up this new series which is going to be following the extended family now that mates are a thing again.
There's guest appearances from most of the usual suspects and the secondary plot lines are focused on how the supernatural world is dealing with the new magic and all the orphaned cubs.
September 21, 2025
Mesmerising!!!
Magical story, super sweet, and alluring hot scenes!! The plot was clever and brilliantly constructed!!! The developing of the characters was squeezed!!! I had a pleasant time with this book!!!! Kudos to Macy Blake!!!
I also have this book on audible, Michael Dean was superb, brilliant technique, gorgeous voice, and astonishing acting, I believe he got even better, from the first book of this universe until this first book from the new series!!! He was incredible, congratulations!!!
6⭐️
Magical story, super sweet, and alluring hot scenes!! The plot was clever and brilliantly constructed!!! The developing of the characters was squeezed!!! I had a pleasant time with this book!!!! Kudos to Macy Blake!!!
I also have this book on audible, Michael Dean was superb, brilliant technique, gorgeous voice, and astonishing acting, I believe he got even better, from the first book of this universe until this first book from the new series!!! He was incredible, congratulations!!!
6⭐️
August 27, 2020
This book was a bit lighter than the others in The Chosen One universe it's spun-off from, and being set in Ben's community for the orphaned children it had all sorts of cuteness along with the romance and just a bit of tension and action.
Orsen is new to the pack and working as a builder while Victor was introduced in the previous series. (I think it may be tough reading this as a standalone for all the background and characters popping in and out.) They are complete opposites working together and when Gus, an orphaned red panda shifter latches on to them, hearts just melt.
Victor is fighting his attraction throughout the story, which makes up a good part of the overall drama, but there is also the upcoming visit from the leader of the red panda shifters that, as they become more and more attached to Gus, looms with a sense of foreboding.
Super sweet with a bit of steam, there is something about the way Macy Blake writes this world that keeeps me coming back and hoping for more.
Orsen is new to the pack and working as a builder while Victor was introduced in the previous series. (I think it may be tough reading this as a standalone for all the background and characters popping in and out.) They are complete opposites working together and when Gus, an orphaned red panda shifter latches on to them, hearts just melt.
Victor is fighting his attraction throughout the story, which makes up a good part of the overall drama, but there is also the upcoming visit from the leader of the red panda shifters that, as they become more and more attached to Gus, looms with a sense of foreboding.
Super sweet with a bit of steam, there is something about the way Macy Blake writes this world that keeeps me coming back and hoping for more.
September 21, 2023
Reread 2023
Victor annoyed me in this one. The fact her left Riggs when he was injured was not good enough and he got off far to easy.
Still enjoyed the book as a whole though
Reread 2021
Review still stands. This book was just as good on the reread.
Excellent
4 stars
Great new series from Macy Blake. It can stand alone, but to get the whole picture it is best to read the Chosen One and Hellhounds Series first. I love the way this story continues the story in a different focus from the other series
I loved Riggs and Victor. Victor was harder to get to know as he was so stubborn and he did annoy me in parts of the book, but when he was on he was great. Riggs with his steady personality and calm nature was a good foil. When needed Riggs ramped it up and showed his bear form to protect the ones he loved. Gus was an absolute joy and it was nice to see children written as children. Great addition of Jett at the end.
I really liked the idea of family and how those families are made that is portrayed in this book.
Can’t wait to see where this leads
Victor annoyed me in this one. The fact her left Riggs when he was injured was not good enough and he got off far to easy.
Still enjoyed the book as a whole though
Reread 2021
Review still stands. This book was just as good on the reread.
Excellent
4 stars
Great new series from Macy Blake. It can stand alone, but to get the whole picture it is best to read the Chosen One and Hellhounds Series first. I love the way this story continues the story in a different focus from the other series
I loved Riggs and Victor. Victor was harder to get to know as he was so stubborn and he did annoy me in parts of the book, but when he was on he was great. Riggs with his steady personality and calm nature was a good foil. When needed Riggs ramped it up and showed his bear form to protect the ones he loved. Gus was an absolute joy and it was nice to see children written as children. Great addition of Jett at the end.
I really liked the idea of family and how those families are made that is portrayed in this book.
Can’t wait to see where this leads
July 5, 2022
4 stars
this was cute, yes it could kinda be read on its own if you didn't mind not having some backstory on the "Chosen One" and the other characters in Macy Blakes universe.
I have only read 4 books from the "Chosen One" Series and that is it (besides "Logan" which i finished a few days ago). I think that is enough to kinda get a good idea of whats happening since this series happens after the "Chosen One" series ends (but i didn't read the ending and i also don't remember much of those books lol).
I loved Gus and Riggs they were so cute!! Victor could be a little too stubborn for his own good and the good of the others.
I wished we had more page time with Jett, i feel like he was just added on at the end.
I can't wait to see how book two is!
this was cute, yes it could kinda be read on its own if you didn't mind not having some backstory on the "Chosen One" and the other characters in Macy Blakes universe.
I have only read 4 books from the "Chosen One" Series and that is it (besides "Logan" which i finished a few days ago). I think that is enough to kinda get a good idea of whats happening since this series happens after the "Chosen One" series ends (but i didn't read the ending and i also don't remember much of those books lol).
I loved Gus and Riggs they were so cute!! Victor could be a little too stubborn for his own good and the good of the others.
I wished we had more page time with Jett, i feel like he was just added on at the end.
I can't wait to see how book two is!
August 2, 2020
Aww such a super sweet addition to the Chosen universe.
August 9, 2020
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am so glad that we are getting more stories in this Universe!
This is exactly what I needed and I really am looking forward to more.
I loved the cameos!
Good stuff.
This is exactly what I needed and I really am looking forward to more.
I loved the cameos!
Good stuff.
August 11, 2020
Loved it! For me Macy's series is a hit or miss. Its' in the Chosen world in Nick's pack. The MCs are strong characters who 'fear' kids and how they end up loving them. The whole story runs seamlessly. The ending could have been a bit predictable but love the journey.
Will I follow the series? Yes, yes and yes!!
Will I follow the series? Yes, yes and yes!!
July 29, 2020
Engaging introduction to a new spin-off series in the Chosen Universe. This series picks up with Nick and The Smith Pack and all the shifter children that were rescued in the last few books. The story-line is solid and the flow is just perfect. I so enjoyed reading this book and the writing was really good.
Oh I love Victor and Orsen! They are a beautiful example of how the contrasts and differences in backgrounds and personalities can make the very best partnerships. These MC's are both wonderful guys and little Gus will just melt your heart as he chooses his people to love him. I could empathize with the struggle that Victor went through regarding accepting that he had a mate. I really enjoyed many of the supporting characters and am looking forward to watching more of the children find homes.
This is book one of the Magical Mates series and i am so looking forward to reading the next book.
I was gifted this book from Gay Romance Reviews and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
Oh I love Victor and Orsen! They are a beautiful example of how the contrasts and differences in backgrounds and personalities can make the very best partnerships. These MC's are both wonderful guys and little Gus will just melt your heart as he chooses his people to love him. I could empathize with the struggle that Victor went through regarding accepting that he had a mate. I really enjoyed many of the supporting characters and am looking forward to watching more of the children find homes.
This is book one of the Magical Mates series and i am so looking forward to reading the next book.
I was gifted this book from Gay Romance Reviews and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
November 10, 2022
Reread number a million I think, man I love this world.
I was not going to review this one again, but I realized that I did not mention that Riggs knotted before he bit Victor to claim him. It was awesome. I wish this series had more of them.
Reading the books in order, but not in series order, makes this all make a heck of a lot more sense.
For anyone that needs it - https://macyblake.com/series/chosen-u...
I highly recommend the omnibus books that have been put together in the correct order, it made re-reading the first half of the series so much easier.
And as always, Michael Dean does great sex scenes. Not all narrators go all in, but he does and it is awesome.
__________________________________________________________
All the sighs...
Victor and Riggs just fit together immediately. But of course, the Griffin had to try to fight fate and lose.
I really like the idea that the kids choose who their parents will be but it took them forever to figure that out.
I also like that Sawyer and the gang are still around.
I was not going to review this one again, but I realized that I did not mention that Riggs knotted before he bit Victor to claim him. It was awesome. I wish this series had more of them.
Reading the books in order, but not in series order, makes this all make a heck of a lot more sense.
For anyone that needs it - https://macyblake.com/series/chosen-u...
I highly recommend the omnibus books that have been put together in the correct order, it made re-reading the first half of the series so much easier.
And as always, Michael Dean does great sex scenes. Not all narrators go all in, but he does and it is awesome.
__________________________________________________________
All the sighs...
Victor and Riggs just fit together immediately. But of course, the Griffin had to try to fight fate and lose.
I really like the idea that the kids choose who their parents will be but it took them forever to figure that out.
I also like that Sawyer and the gang are still around.
May 6, 2024
3.5 stars.
Super cute story and a good beginning to a new series, but not the strongest Macy Blake book ever in my opinion.
I love the compound and Nick's pack, I love Gus. I do wish there had been more focus on plot rather than sex, and it was definitely insta-love, which is not my favorite.
I wish we had also been allowed to see more of Jett, so I'm hoping that will happen later in the series. I know that Walt and Shelly are a m/f couple (and already established), but I wish we could see some of their lives with Ryan from Walt's perspective. Or even just more of their interaction with the cute boy.
.
Super cute story and a good beginning to a new series, but not the strongest Macy Blake book ever in my opinion.
I love the compound and Nick's pack, I love Gus. I do wish there had been more focus on plot rather than sex, and it was definitely insta-love, which is not my favorite.
I wish we had also been allowed to see more of Jett, so I'm hoping that will happen later in the series. I know that Walt and Shelly are a m/f couple (and already established), but I wish we could see some of their lives with Ryan from Walt's perspective. Or even just more of their interaction with the cute boy.
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Want to read
December 6, 2020Thank you for the gift, A Naughty West Coast Elf!
August 5, 2020
"All Kidding Aside" is the first volume in the "Magical Mates" series by Macy Blake and the first novel by this author I have read so far. However, it is certainly not the last one, as I fell in love with the author's universe and I want to return to this amazing world as soon as possible. And since I've already started writing about this topic... People for whom "All Kidding Aside" is the first adventure in the colorful, fascinating and full of magical creatures world created by Macy Blake will quickly realize that this novel is not the only one set in this universe. On the other hand, for readers familiar with the author's other series, this fact is obvious from the very beginning, because many of the characters we meet in this volume appeared earlier in other series or even had their own books. However, when reading this story, this fact it's not a problem at tall, because we do not need to know other series to be up to date with the events of this volume. I would even say that the possibility of reaching for other novels set in the same universe makes us all the more interested in the author's work.
As for the universe itself, it is simply amazing, colorful, interesting and in many ways beautiful. The world created by Macy Blake is full of magic, including that of fated mates and "fated parents". In this world we meet shifters who turn into all kinds of animals, vampire guards with swords, eccentric faeries, and we even learn a little about gods and goddesses. This world is engrossing, addictive, it makes you want to get to know it, to be a part of it. I am sure that it is much greater than what we see in "All Kidding Aside" and that is why I am going to read other novels by the author to get to know it better as soon as possible. I really believe it's worth it.
In terms of the story the author tells us in "All Kidding Aside", I think it is really wonderful. It is beautiful, filled with energy and various types of love, such as romantic, parental and friendly one. Reading this story, we feel like we are filled with positive energy that makes us feel happy. What I really liked about this novel is that the main characters, including baby Gus, become closer to one another so naturally and effortlessly that they don't even realize it themselves until the bond between them grows so strong that it is painful to break. What's important, "All Kidding Aside" is also a story about personal development, discovering your own unconscious needs and the courage to change the path of your own life.
In summary, "All Kidding Aside" is a fantastic novel we fall in love with in the blink of an eye. It is beautiful, full of love and positive energy, addictive. This novel really encourages us to read not only other books in the series it is part of, but also the author's other works.
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„All Kidding Aside” to pierwszy tom serii „Magical Mates” autorstwa Macy Blake i pierwsza powieść jej autorstwa jaką dotąd czytałam. Z pewnością nie jest ona jednak ostatnią, jako że zakochałam się w uniwersum jakie stworzyła autorka i chcę do niego powrócić jak najszybciej. A skoro przy tym temacie jesteśmy. Osoby, dla których „All Kidding Aside” jest pierwszą przygodą w stworzonym przez Macy Blake barwnym, fascynującym i pełnym magicznych istot świecie podczas lektury bardzo szybko domyślają się, że powieść ta nie jest jedyną osadzoną w tym uniwersum. Z kolei dla czytelników znających inne serie autorki jest to wręcz oczywiste, gdyż wielu bohaterów, których spotykamy w tym tomie pojawiło się wcześniej w innych seriach lub nawet miało swoje własne tomy. Fakt ten nie przeszkadza nam jednak w czytaniu, ponieważ nie musimy znać innych serii by być na bieżąco z wydarzeniami tego tomu. Powiedziałabym nawet, że możliwość sięgnięcia po inne powieści osadzone w tym samym uniwersum sprawia, że jesteśmy tym bardziej zainteresowani twórczością autorki.
Jeśli chodzi o samo uniwersum, jest ono po prostu niesamowite, barwne, interesujące i pod wieloma względami piękne. Świat stworzony przez Macy Blake pełen jest różnorodnej magii, w tym przeznaczonych sobie partnerów oraz rodziców. Spotkamy tu zmiennokształtnych zamieniających się w najróżniejsze zwierzęta, wampirzą straż z mieczami, ekscentryczne faerie, a nawet dowiemy się trochę na temat bogów i bogiń. Ten świat wciąga, uzależnia, sprawia, że chce się go poznawać, chce się być jego częścią. Jestem pewna, że jest o wiele rozleglejszy niż to, co widzimy w „All Kidding Aside” i dlatego mam zamiar sięgnąć po inne powieści autorki, aby móc go jak najszybciej lepiej poznać. Uważam bowiem, że warto.
Jeśli chodzi o historię, którą w „All Kidding Aside” opowiada nam autorka jest ona naprawdę wspaniała. Jest bowiem piękna, przepełniona energią i różnymi rodzajami miłości, jak miłość romantyczna, rodzicielska, przyjacielska. Kiedy czytamy tę historię, czujemy jak przepełnia nas pozytywna energia, która sprawia, że czujemy się szczęśliwi. W tej powieści bardzo spodobało mi się to, że główni bohaterowie, wliczając w to także maleńkiego Gusa, zbliżają się do siebie w sposób tak naturalny i niewymuszony, że sami nawet nie zdają sobie z tego sprawy póki więź między nimi nie staje się tak silna, że bolesna do zerwania. Co istotne, „All Kidding Aside” to także historia o rozwoju osobistym, odkryciu własnych nieuświadomionych potrzeb i odwadze, aby zmienić tory własnego życia.
Podsumowując, „All Kidding Aside” to fantastyczna powieść, w której zakochujemy się w mgnieniu oka. Jest piękna, pełna miłości i pozytywnej energii, uzależniająca. To powieść, która zachęca do dalszego czytania i to nie tylko serii, której jest częścią, ale także innych prac autorki.
As for the universe itself, it is simply amazing, colorful, interesting and in many ways beautiful. The world created by Macy Blake is full of magic, including that of fated mates and "fated parents". In this world we meet shifters who turn into all kinds of animals, vampire guards with swords, eccentric faeries, and we even learn a little about gods and goddesses. This world is engrossing, addictive, it makes you want to get to know it, to be a part of it. I am sure that it is much greater than what we see in "All Kidding Aside" and that is why I am going to read other novels by the author to get to know it better as soon as possible. I really believe it's worth it.
In terms of the story the author tells us in "All Kidding Aside", I think it is really wonderful. It is beautiful, filled with energy and various types of love, such as romantic, parental and friendly one. Reading this story, we feel like we are filled with positive energy that makes us feel happy. What I really liked about this novel is that the main characters, including baby Gus, become closer to one another so naturally and effortlessly that they don't even realize it themselves until the bond between them grows so strong that it is painful to break. What's important, "All Kidding Aside" is also a story about personal development, discovering your own unconscious needs and the courage to change the path of your own life.
In summary, "All Kidding Aside" is a fantastic novel we fall in love with in the blink of an eye. It is beautiful, full of love and positive energy, addictive. This novel really encourages us to read not only other books in the series it is part of, but also the author's other works.
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„All Kidding Aside” to pierwszy tom serii „Magical Mates” autorstwa Macy Blake i pierwsza powieść jej autorstwa jaką dotąd czytałam. Z pewnością nie jest ona jednak ostatnią, jako że zakochałam się w uniwersum jakie stworzyła autorka i chcę do niego powrócić jak najszybciej. A skoro przy tym temacie jesteśmy. Osoby, dla których „All Kidding Aside” jest pierwszą przygodą w stworzonym przez Macy Blake barwnym, fascynującym i pełnym magicznych istot świecie podczas lektury bardzo szybko domyślają się, że powieść ta nie jest jedyną osadzoną w tym uniwersum. Z kolei dla czytelników znających inne serie autorki jest to wręcz oczywiste, gdyż wielu bohaterów, których spotykamy w tym tomie pojawiło się wcześniej w innych seriach lub nawet miało swoje własne tomy. Fakt ten nie przeszkadza nam jednak w czytaniu, ponieważ nie musimy znać innych serii by być na bieżąco z wydarzeniami tego tomu. Powiedziałabym nawet, że możliwość sięgnięcia po inne powieści osadzone w tym samym uniwersum sprawia, że jesteśmy tym bardziej zainteresowani twórczością autorki.
Jeśli chodzi o samo uniwersum, jest ono po prostu niesamowite, barwne, interesujące i pod wieloma względami piękne. Świat stworzony przez Macy Blake pełen jest różnorodnej magii, w tym przeznaczonych sobie partnerów oraz rodziców. Spotkamy tu zmiennokształtnych zamieniających się w najróżniejsze zwierzęta, wampirzą straż z mieczami, ekscentryczne faerie, a nawet dowiemy się trochę na temat bogów i bogiń. Ten świat wciąga, uzależnia, sprawia, że chce się go poznawać, chce się być jego częścią. Jestem pewna, że jest o wiele rozleglejszy niż to, co widzimy w „All Kidding Aside” i dlatego mam zamiar sięgnąć po inne powieści autorki, aby móc go jak najszybciej lepiej poznać. Uważam bowiem, że warto.
Jeśli chodzi o historię, którą w „All Kidding Aside” opowiada nam autorka jest ona naprawdę wspaniała. Jest bowiem piękna, przepełniona energią i różnymi rodzajami miłości, jak miłość romantyczna, rodzicielska, przyjacielska. Kiedy czytamy tę historię, czujemy jak przepełnia nas pozytywna energia, która sprawia, że czujemy się szczęśliwi. W tej powieści bardzo spodobało mi się to, że główni bohaterowie, wliczając w to także maleńkiego Gusa, zbliżają się do siebie w sposób tak naturalny i niewymuszony, że sami nawet nie zdają sobie z tego sprawy póki więź między nimi nie staje się tak silna, że bolesna do zerwania. Co istotne, „All Kidding Aside” to także historia o rozwoju osobistym, odkryciu własnych nieuświadomionych potrzeb i odwadze, aby zmienić tory własnego życia.
Podsumowując, „All Kidding Aside” to fantastyczna powieść, w której zakochujemy się w mgnieniu oka. Jest piękna, pełna miłości i pozytywnej energii, uzależniająca. To powieść, która zachęca do dalszego czytania i to nie tylko serii, której jest częścią, ale także innych prac autorki.
July 30, 2020
Gus ❤️
Beyond sweet and overloaded with cuteness on the form of Gus. Loved the first in this new series. It would be helpful to have read The Chosen One series first as events are referred to.
Beyond sweet and overloaded with cuteness on the form of Gus. Loved the first in this new series. It would be helpful to have read The Chosen One series first as events are referred to.
November 12, 2020
I had not caught on to the fact that this was no 1 in a spin off series. In reality I think it should be something more along the lines of no 1 million in the other series (there's 3 series, it looks like 'The chosen' is the first one). There's So many references to former events, pre-established relations and couples that it's impossible for a new reader to keep up, though the repeat references did help on that front.
Besides that its sickeningly sweet of the 'Toddler's are so cute'-variety, with insta-love, insta-lust, lots of sex, and 'We're all just so happy and wise - because we came from a former book' thrown into the mix. It gets to be a bit much, fast.
Moving past all that, what you're left with is a sweet little classic mating claim, with an opposites attract twist. Fairly unoriginal, but sweet, and not as funny, confrontational or snarky as I thought it would be from reading the blurb.
Besides that its sickeningly sweet of the 'Toddler's are so cute'-variety, with insta-love, insta-lust, lots of sex, and 'We're all just so happy and wise - because we came from a former book' thrown into the mix. It gets to be a bit much, fast.
Moving past all that, what you're left with is a sweet little classic mating claim, with an opposites attract twist. Fairly unoriginal, but sweet, and not as funny, confrontational or snarky as I thought it would be from reading the blurb.
February 22, 2023
Probably my favorite in the entire Chosen Universe?
October 27, 2025
I freakin love this book. Oh my goodness, Gus with his "Bird", and "Bear", got me every time. Riggs and Victor were so good too, and Nick and Jedrek, all of the cameos actually. Loved this one!!
August 3, 2020
I really loved this first book in the spin off from the Chosen One series. I read most of those books and the Hellhound books but I was missing a few key details going in to this book. Not enough to make the story totally confusing but I think I would have been on much better footing had I read all of the Chosen One series first. So I’d recommend that you read those books before starting this one.
In this book Eduard’s cousin Victor is summoned to help Alpha Nick with his pack and all the children that have been rescued after the big battle…which I am assuming happened in the last Chosen book. Victor has very definite ideas about what his life is and isn’t. Unfortunately for him, the Goddesses seem to have a different plan for him. He meets and feels an immediate connection to bear shifter Riggs. He also seems to have attracted the affection of a red panda cub…a toddler. And Victor hates children! Or does he?
This is a sweet and emotional story about finding what you didn’t know you were looking for. There is humor, worry, tenderness, joy and fear and above all, love. The relationship crisis is heart wrenching and had me in tears. The problem of the children and other packs crisis is infuriating and makes you want to throat punch someone. This is clearly going to be a story arc that carries over. The sort of/potential resolution is intriguing and mysterious and will be fun to watch play out. The ending of this book is sweet and gives us a lovely and hopeful HEA. Strongly recommend.
**I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion.**
In this book Eduard’s cousin Victor is summoned to help Alpha Nick with his pack and all the children that have been rescued after the big battle…which I am assuming happened in the last Chosen book. Victor has very definite ideas about what his life is and isn’t. Unfortunately for him, the Goddesses seem to have a different plan for him. He meets and feels an immediate connection to bear shifter Riggs. He also seems to have attracted the affection of a red panda cub…a toddler. And Victor hates children! Or does he?
This is a sweet and emotional story about finding what you didn’t know you were looking for. There is humor, worry, tenderness, joy and fear and above all, love. The relationship crisis is heart wrenching and had me in tears. The problem of the children and other packs crisis is infuriating and makes you want to throat punch someone. This is clearly going to be a story arc that carries over. The sort of/potential resolution is intriguing and mysterious and will be fun to watch play out. The ending of this book is sweet and gives us a lovely and hopeful HEA. Strongly recommend.
**I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion.**
December 11, 2020
***narration review only***
I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but I enjoyed this narration. I know I’m in the minority, but I’m really not a fan of this narrator. Not sure why, but their voice usually rubs me the wrong way (think nails on a chalkboard). Thing is, this is one of my favorite books of the year. That really caused me some serious heartache when this audio was released. I bought it anyway. I’m so glad that I did. I’m still not a fan, but I was able to enjoy this quite a bit without feeling like a favorite book was ruined by the narration. Instead, this may possibly go into my re-listen rotation.
I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but I enjoyed this narration. I know I’m in the minority, but I’m really not a fan of this narrator. Not sure why, but their voice usually rubs me the wrong way (think nails on a chalkboard). Thing is, this is one of my favorite books of the year. That really caused me some serious heartache when this audio was released. I bought it anyway. I’m so glad that I did. I’m still not a fan, but I was able to enjoy this quite a bit without feeling like a favorite book was ruined by the narration. Instead, this may possibly go into my re-listen rotation.
August 7, 2022
Gus -Gus the Star!!
Although Riggs and Victor were solid characters on their own, the cuteness that was Gus completely carried the entire book and I can't even be mad about it.
In fact, I wish it were longer! 🤣
So yeah, loved this book and would recommend it
(PS: it would help your reading experience if you've read the "The Chosen One Universe" books.)
Although Riggs and Victor were solid characters on their own, the cuteness that was Gus completely carried the entire book and I can't even be mad about it.
In fact, I wish it were longer! 🤣
So yeah, loved this book and would recommend it
(PS: it would help your reading experience if you've read the "The Chosen One Universe" books.)
July 26, 2020
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
So, apart from one thing, I LOVED this book!
It has magic, and shifters, and mates, and sexy times, and emotional times, and . . .and . . .and. . .everything one could wish for, in a male/male shifter mates book.
Riggs is a bear shifter and Victor a griffin. Gus is a red panda baby who wants nothing more than his bird and his bear. But said bird doesn’t think he will ever be a dad, and said bird thinks he will never have a mate. Said bear getting the mating, but said bird is stubborn! When Riggs is gravely injured, Victor runs and it takes something happening to their panda to bring him home.
I loved Riggs. He reacts strongly to Victor, and their attraction and chemistry is hawt, even by shifter standards! I loved Victor, very quickly Riggs was his bear, but he couldn’t see it. And Gus! Oh that baby red panda knew, he KNEW that Riggs and Victor were his, even if Victor did not do children. Victor was slightly traumatised by spaghetti in this book, bless him!
It’s hawt off the charts, but also, Victor is a very emotional soul. He doesn’t think he’s good enough of anything for anyone. Riggs not so much, at least not til he loses Victor after he runs, but Victor I felt more than Riggs.
I loved what Nick, Victor’s cousin, was doing with the kids, gave the book the warm and fuzziness to read about an Alpha lion getting naps in with *his* babies, in his lion form!
Lots and LOTS of paranormal beings pop up in this book, so many! Shifters of all manner. Dragons. Vampires. A freaking Pegasus! Loved trying to keep up with them all.
BUT
There are books in a series BEFORE this one. And I think for ME, I should have read them first. There is some history, some back story I’m missing, and it spoilt this one, just a tad, for me. A lot of the characters from that series play a huge part in this one.
Oh, don’t get me wrong, MUCH is recapped. MUCH is explained, but not what I, me personally, needed, you know? And, in true debbiereadsbook style, I cannot, simply can not explain what I was missing! It annoys me, deeply, when I can’t explain it, it really does!
I want to go back and read about Nick and his hellhound mate. About Sawyer, the Chosen One and his 8 (EIGHT!) mates. Maybe they will tell me what the fu. . .fudge an awen is, let alone a powerful one!!??!!
Anyway, aside from the missing bits my brain needed, I loved this book and I will certainly carry on with this series, given the chance, looks like it’s the first I’ve read of this author. I like the way she tells her tales.
Off to see how much this is gonna cost me, trying to fill in the gaps :-p
4 very VERY good stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
So, apart from one thing, I LOVED this book!
It has magic, and shifters, and mates, and sexy times, and emotional times, and . . .and . . .and. . .everything one could wish for, in a male/male shifter mates book.
Riggs is a bear shifter and Victor a griffin. Gus is a red panda baby who wants nothing more than his bird and his bear. But said bird doesn’t think he will ever be a dad, and said bird thinks he will never have a mate. Said bear getting the mating, but said bird is stubborn! When Riggs is gravely injured, Victor runs and it takes something happening to their panda to bring him home.
I loved Riggs. He reacts strongly to Victor, and their attraction and chemistry is hawt, even by shifter standards! I loved Victor, very quickly Riggs was his bear, but he couldn’t see it. And Gus! Oh that baby red panda knew, he KNEW that Riggs and Victor were his, even if Victor did not do children. Victor was slightly traumatised by spaghetti in this book, bless him!
It’s hawt off the charts, but also, Victor is a very emotional soul. He doesn’t think he’s good enough of anything for anyone. Riggs not so much, at least not til he loses Victor after he runs, but Victor I felt more than Riggs.
I loved what Nick, Victor’s cousin, was doing with the kids, gave the book the warm and fuzziness to read about an Alpha lion getting naps in with *his* babies, in his lion form!
Lots and LOTS of paranormal beings pop up in this book, so many! Shifters of all manner. Dragons. Vampires. A freaking Pegasus! Loved trying to keep up with them all.
BUT
There are books in a series BEFORE this one. And I think for ME, I should have read them first. There is some history, some back story I’m missing, and it spoilt this one, just a tad, for me. A lot of the characters from that series play a huge part in this one.
Oh, don’t get me wrong, MUCH is recapped. MUCH is explained, but not what I, me personally, needed, you know? And, in true debbiereadsbook style, I cannot, simply can not explain what I was missing! It annoys me, deeply, when I can’t explain it, it really does!
I want to go back and read about Nick and his hellhound mate. About Sawyer, the Chosen One and his 8 (EIGHT!) mates. Maybe they will tell me what the fu. . .fudge an awen is, let alone a powerful one!!??!!
Anyway, aside from the missing bits my brain needed, I loved this book and I will certainly carry on with this series, given the chance, looks like it’s the first I’ve read of this author. I like the way she tells her tales.
Off to see how much this is gonna cost me, trying to fill in the gaps :-p
4 very VERY good stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
July 9, 2021
Whoops, accidentally skipping series again. This one comes after the chosen one and the hellhounds, so spoilers. Although now I know what happens, I am looking forward to reading them in order. This one reminds me of Sam's story, but Nick is the protective one. Victor and Riggs made a sweet couple and I liked how Gus wrapped them around his little fingers. Mainly everyone just doting on the children. Light and sweet with no real drama or dramatic breakups. Probably looking forward to reading Nick's story the most.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2020
Fantastic New Series
OhMyGracious, what a lovely first installment into a new series!!
In this book, the reader gets a bit of everything & and everyone. We have the Jerricks, the Smiths, the Eastaughffes. We get to read of the Chosen One & his mates, bears, lions, wolves, brownies, griffins, fae, vampires, hellhounds, Valkyrie ... There are more precious cubs to meet, former cubs growing up ...
This new series revolves around Nick’s 40+ rescued children finding their new forever families. ‘All Kidding Aside’ is a perfect introduction into this adventure.
OhMyGracious, what a lovely first installment into a new series!!
In this book, the reader gets a bit of everything & and everyone. We have the Jerricks, the Smiths, the Eastaughffes. We get to read of the Chosen One & his mates, bears, lions, wolves, brownies, griffins, fae, vampires, hellhounds, Valkyrie ... There are more precious cubs to meet, former cubs growing up ...
This new series revolves around Nick’s 40+ rescued children finding their new forever families. ‘All Kidding Aside’ is a perfect introduction into this adventure.
September 29, 2020
Sweet read
This was such a sweet, amazing read.
I really enjoyed Riggs and Victor's story. They are total opposites but it works so well as they balance each other out as life throws them a few curve balls.
I really enjoyed this book. It can standalone, thought it's much better read after the others, for the back story.
I can't wait for the next book
This was such a sweet, amazing read.
I really enjoyed Riggs and Victor's story. They are total opposites but it works so well as they balance each other out as life throws them a few curve balls.
I really enjoyed this book. It can standalone, thought it's much better read after the others, for the back story.
I can't wait for the next book
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