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Shadow Guild: The Rebel #5
Cursed Mate
For Cursed Mates, it’s kill or be killed. Unless we find a way out.
There’s no other way to say it: I’m up a creek without a paddle. Sure, some things are going great. My supernatural sleuth business is up and running, and I’ve got a group of fab friends.
On the other hand, I’m one half of a cursed mate bond, and we’re reaching the end of the line. Grey, who I’ve grown to care too much for, is going to kill me. Or he’s going to die. Fate will ensure we take one of those two terrible paths. Though we’ve tried, it’s been impossible to break the bond.
Then I discover a mystery that pulls me in deep. My past is not as it seems, and there may be answers that that can help me save Grey and myself. No matter how dangerous, I’m going to follow the clues until it’s all over—for better or worse.
There’s no other way to say it: I’m up a creek without a paddle. Sure, some things are going great. My supernatural sleuth business is up and running, and I’ve got a group of fab friends.
On the other hand, I’m one half of a cursed mate bond, and we’re reaching the end of the line. Grey, who I’ve grown to care too much for, is going to kill me. Or he’s going to die. Fate will ensure we take one of those two terrible paths. Though we’ve tried, it’s been impossible to break the bond.
Then I discover a mystery that pulls me in deep. My past is not as it seems, and there may be answers that that can help me save Grey and myself. No matter how dangerous, I’m going to follow the clues until it’s all over—for better or worse.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2020
1140 people are currently reading
1090 people want to read
About the author
Linsey Hall
108 books4,391 followersFollow me!
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Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
For giveaways, contests and book discussion join my Facebook group
here!
Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 274 reviews
May 17, 2021
This is the fifth, and final, book in the Rebel series. Read them in order.
I think that my engagement with these books depends a lot more on the plot holding together than I had guessed. The worldbuilding remains kitchen-sink sloppy and the characters are still likeable and fun. But the plot of this one is a bit scattered with Carrow and Grey chasing every unlikely clue into weird and distressing locations to do they don't know what. They're openly winging it and doing so with huge costs on the line makes me jittery.
And being jittery breaks my engagement. I mean, I liked seeing them get their HEA and solve their problems. But I have to admit that I found the essence of the solution a bit lacking. I mean,
So it's three stars for being . . . adequate.
A note about Steamy: There's a single explicit sex scene, a really short one, that puts this on the really light side of my steam tolerance. And it, too, was, well, adequate. Barely. Okay, it was lacking and kind of gratuitous and whatever.
I think that my engagement with these books depends a lot more on the plot holding together than I had guessed. The worldbuilding remains kitchen-sink sloppy and the characters are still likeable and fun. But the plot of this one is a bit scattered with Carrow and Grey chasing every unlikely clue into weird and distressing locations to do they don't know what. They're openly winging it and doing so with huge costs on the line makes me jittery.
And being jittery breaks my engagement. I mean, I liked seeing them get their HEA and solve their problems. But I have to admit that I found the essence of the solution a bit lacking. I mean,
So it's three stars for being . . . adequate.
A note about Steamy: There's a single explicit sex scene, a really short one, that puts this on the really light side of my steam tolerance. And it, too, was, well, adequate. Barely. Okay, it was lacking and kind of gratuitous and whatever.
September 1, 2020
A satisfactory end to a series, it solved everything and gave a nice HEA. However would have wanted it to be a bit longer and lacked the climax I was really hoping for. But I can't complain, it's been a good series and now I can leave Carrow and Grey to their happily ever after.
Another great series from Linsey Hall!
→ 3 stars
Another great series from Linsey Hall!
→ 3 stars
August 31, 2020
I've really enjoyed reading about Carrow and Grey and now they are pushing hard for answers as they struggle to save Grey. Perhaps it's time to finally retrace Grey's past and visit his maker because surely he might know how to save Grey's life ? Trouble is there's a reason why Grey stays well away and the couple just might have made a lethal mistake !
I do enjoy reading from Carrows point of view as she has such a realistic attitude. Whilst desperate to save the man/vampire she loves she still has trouble embracing her role as leader of the Shadow Guild and both intertwine here to bring a conclusion that I honestly hadn't expected.
Throughout this series Carrow has had issues understanding her magic and finally we get answers but again it wasn't what I had imagined and the way it affected her friend ( sorry my lips are sealed ) was a huge surprise. I think for me as much as I enjoyed this story I do wish that there hadn't been quite so many explanations thrown in at the end and personally I would have preferred some a little sooner so perhaps something in the previous book because this felt rushed. However I cannot fault that the couple do get their happy ending so if you too enjoy magic, adventure and romance then this authors work should definitely be on your list. I started with her Mythean series which is a huge recommendation from me and was delighted to see a slight nod to it here.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
I do enjoy reading from Carrows point of view as she has such a realistic attitude. Whilst desperate to save the man/vampire she loves she still has trouble embracing her role as leader of the Shadow Guild and both intertwine here to bring a conclusion that I honestly hadn't expected.
Throughout this series Carrow has had issues understanding her magic and finally we get answers but again it wasn't what I had imagined and the way it affected her friend ( sorry my lips are sealed ) was a huge surprise. I think for me as much as I enjoyed this story I do wish that there hadn't been quite so many explanations thrown in at the end and personally I would have preferred some a little sooner so perhaps something in the previous book because this felt rushed. However I cannot fault that the couple do get their happy ending so if you too enjoy magic, adventure and romance then this authors work should definitely be on your list. I started with her Mythean series which is a huge recommendation from me and was delighted to see a slight nod to it here.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
August 31, 2020
This is the fifth and final book in the Shadow Guild: The Rebel series. I hate to see this one go as this is my favorite series so far. Carrow and Grey are trying to find a way around the cursed mate problem, and Carrow will have to explore her past to protect her future. This was a great installment to this series. I love the chemistry between the two of them, and I wasn’t sure how the author was going to fix the problem, but it was a very elegant solution. I am going to miss these two, but I have a sneaking suspicion I’ll see them again. I can’t wait to read about the other minor characters. This author has a way with making you love all her characters. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
September 13, 2020
The perfect last book for Carrow and Grey. The adventure continues as they work to solve the mystery of their cursed mates curse. This story is full of as much adventure, action and surprises as every other book in the series. While I am sorry to see their story finish, I enjoyed every minute of this book. I recommend this series and this book.
January 1, 2026
Terminada la primera saga de este universo. Tenía ganas de acabarla, la verdad. Ha estado bien, aunque siento que estas novelas podrían haberse condensado en menos libros. Aún así, no le ha quedado mal a la autora. Además, las he podido leer en francés así que eso es un plus para mí.
Mi personaje favorito siempre va a ser Cordelia y su obsesión por los Kebabs. Ese mapache y yo somos almas gemelas.
Mi personaje favorito siempre va a ser Cordelia y su obsesión por los Kebabs. Ese mapache y yo somos almas gemelas.
February 29, 2024
Whelp, that’s finally over. I begrudgingly made it through all 5 of these books. I do not recommend, especially, if you try the audible version smh what a waste of a credit.
May 31, 2024
3/5
TA CAŁA SERIA TO JEDEN WIELKI NIEWYKORZYSTANY POTENCJAŁ
TA CAŁA SERIA TO JEDEN WIELKI NIEWYKORZYSTANY POTENCJAŁ
September 3, 2020
Great read
This is a great series. I loved the magic and characters all have a certain charm. It is one of those stories that makes you feel as if you are actually there with them. I loved the world the author created. It is one of those series you don't want to ever end, it feels like you are losing your friends. And I'm so glad to hear there will be a story about one of the very interesting characters that was secretive about what she is. I highly recommend this series...
This is a great series. I loved the magic and characters all have a certain charm. It is one of those stories that makes you feel as if you are actually there with them. I loved the world the author created. It is one of those series you don't want to ever end, it feels like you are losing your friends. And I'm so glad to hear there will be a story about one of the very interesting characters that was secretive about what she is. I highly recommend this series...
May 22, 2021
Nemam slov! Ten konec byl peckovej. Sice sladkej ale peckovej 🖤
Nebylo v planu pokracovat navazujici serii ale neda se svitit. Potrebuju vedet jak jsou na tom dalsi postavy 🤷🏼♀️🙈
Nebylo v planu pokracovat navazujici serii ale neda se svitit. Potrebuju vedet jak jsou na tom dalsi postavy 🤷🏼♀️🙈
September 7, 2020
Serves me right for putting too much expectation on this series after the first instalment.
Initially, the whole thing about Guild City had given me the excitement of stumbling across Diagon Alley and it had shown tons of potential and promises for the whole series. Unfortunately after that initial excitement recedes I started noticing how much everything else seems to be lacking.
The relationship between the characters and the protagonists’ romance felt so underdeveloped. The whole issue with how h and H’s relationship went from simple ‘desire’ to ‘i would die for you’ seems kind of unbelievable despite the author’s continuous emphasis on them being ‘Cursed Mates.’ And the friendship between the crew is even less believable — with them meeting each other, deciding that they are best friends and that’s the end of it. Often times the plot had felt rushed and personally, after all that Carrow and Grey have been through I expected the ending and solution to the main conflict (in which the 5 books revolved around) to have a more satisfactory climax.
Despite all that, I do enjoy Shadow Guild, and I am glad that Linsey Hall managed to answer all of our questions about Carrow’s back story before it all wraps up in a nice HEA.
Initially, the whole thing about Guild City had given me the excitement of stumbling across Diagon Alley and it had shown tons of potential and promises for the whole series. Unfortunately after that initial excitement recedes I started noticing how much everything else seems to be lacking.
The relationship between the characters and the protagonists’ romance felt so underdeveloped. The whole issue with how h and H’s relationship went from simple ‘desire’ to ‘i would die for you’ seems kind of unbelievable despite the author’s continuous emphasis on them being ‘Cursed Mates.’ And the friendship between the crew is even less believable — with them meeting each other, deciding that they are best friends and that’s the end of it. Often times the plot had felt rushed and personally, after all that Carrow and Grey have been through I expected the ending and solution to the main conflict (in which the 5 books revolved around) to have a more satisfactory climax.
Despite all that, I do enjoy Shadow Guild, and I am glad that Linsey Hall managed to answer all of our questions about Carrow’s back story before it all wraps up in a nice HEA.
September 5, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Lots of Stars for Linsey ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Linsey Hall is magic incarnate. She wields words like a wand, creating fantastic landscapes, people, artifacts, romance, and adventures!
I am so very sad to see book 5, Cursed Mate (Shadow Guild: The rebel series) end. I absolutely treasured watching Carrow and Grey’s relationship blossom, struggle, strengthen, and develop into one of my absolute favorites, found in Linsey’s world.
The only positive in this story ending, is knowing that more magic will be coming to us soon. Thank you for dreaming these dreams for us, Linsey. Thank you for creating worlds in which we can escape, enjoy, and recall fondly.
Linsey Hall is magic incarnate. She wields words like a wand, creating fantastic landscapes, people, artifacts, romance, and adventures!
I am so very sad to see book 5, Cursed Mate (Shadow Guild: The rebel series) end. I absolutely treasured watching Carrow and Grey’s relationship blossom, struggle, strengthen, and develop into one of my absolute favorites, found in Linsey’s world.
The only positive in this story ending, is knowing that more magic will be coming to us soon. Thank you for dreaming these dreams for us, Linsey. Thank you for creating worlds in which we can escape, enjoy, and recall fondly.
September 1, 2020
Be still my heart
She did it, she really did it. I have to admit, my expectations for this final book in Carrow and Grey's story were set very high. And Linsey Hall met them and even exceeded what I had hoped for.
Time is short and ticking away quickly at the open. Carrow is plagued by dreams and her fears of losing Grey, of never understanding her magic and how to use it to save the man she loves. And Grey knows that he will give up his life to keep Carrow, the woman he loves, safe from harm, safe from himself.
This story is classic Hall, a race against time. But what happens when time runs out? Carrow must turn to herself and look within for the answers she seeks, to the salvation of her mate.
I wish I could say more about this story, but it would give it all away. I will say this, it is true to these characters. You need to read it for yourself. I'm not ashamed to say I shed some tears, both happy and sad. This one hits you in the heart.
Carrow is quite the heroine, all that is good, loving and loyal. A modern woman with a classic feel to her, with all the struggles and questions that go along with that. But Grey, Grey is a hero out of the best in classic literature. I've said it before, he's deep, dark and deliciously broody. He's Heathcliff and Rochester, and now, maybe a little bit Mr. Darcy as well. Honestly, my favorite hero of all the amazing Hall heroes. Together, Carrow and Grey make for an unbeatable read.
I have truly enjoyed the dual perspectives on this series. I think it's one of the reasons why this series resonates so well with me. I loved how Hall used it to showcase not only the h/h feelings toward each other, but to also move the storyline along from each perspective and through their actions. That's not always an easy thing to do.
I'm sorry we've reached the end of their tale. But I'm sure we'll see glimpses of them in future Shadow Guild adventures. I certainly hope we do.
She did it, she really did it. I have to admit, my expectations for this final book in Carrow and Grey's story were set very high. And Linsey Hall met them and even exceeded what I had hoped for.
Time is short and ticking away quickly at the open. Carrow is plagued by dreams and her fears of losing Grey, of never understanding her magic and how to use it to save the man she loves. And Grey knows that he will give up his life to keep Carrow, the woman he loves, safe from harm, safe from himself.
This story is classic Hall, a race against time. But what happens when time runs out? Carrow must turn to herself and look within for the answers she seeks, to the salvation of her mate.
I wish I could say more about this story, but it would give it all away. I will say this, it is true to these characters. You need to read it for yourself. I'm not ashamed to say I shed some tears, both happy and sad. This one hits you in the heart.
Carrow is quite the heroine, all that is good, loving and loyal. A modern woman with a classic feel to her, with all the struggles and questions that go along with that. But Grey, Grey is a hero out of the best in classic literature. I've said it before, he's deep, dark and deliciously broody. He's Heathcliff and Rochester, and now, maybe a little bit Mr. Darcy as well. Honestly, my favorite hero of all the amazing Hall heroes. Together, Carrow and Grey make for an unbeatable read.
I have truly enjoyed the dual perspectives on this series. I think it's one of the reasons why this series resonates so well with me. I loved how Hall used it to showcase not only the h/h feelings toward each other, but to also move the storyline along from each perspective and through their actions. That's not always an easy thing to do.
I'm sorry we've reached the end of their tale. But I'm sure we'll see glimpses of them in future Shadow Guild adventures. I certainly hope we do.
March 27, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this final book in this series and thought it was a great way to round everything up. There's lots of action, lots of emotions and a lot of secrets revealed and discovered. We finally get answers to all the lingering questions and finally get to see what happens to the Cursed Mates.
The only thing about this book that left me wondering was what in Guild City was Seraphina up to?! Got to read her series to find out!
Brilliant series and highly recommended
The only thing about this book that left me wondering was what in Guild City was Seraphina up to?! Got to read her series to find out!
Brilliant series and highly recommended
July 10, 2021
Quick(ish) Reviews
A good end to the series, even when certain things wrap up a little too neatly, emotionally it was satisfying.
A good end to the series, even when certain things wrap up a little too neatly, emotionally it was satisfying.
March 1, 2023
Nice but much like others in the series and too much “good thing we have this potion!” Moments
August 31, 2020
A great ending to a delightful series. Carrow finally comes into her own in this story while Grey, predominantly, takes a back seat. The cameo appearances of the Shadow Guild members are precious. I hope that you enjoy this as much as I did.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Haunting. Page-turner. Romantic. Scary. Steamy. Unpredictable. Wonderful characters.
I received a copy of this book as a gift from the author. This is my honest review.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Haunting. Page-turner. Romantic. Scary. Steamy. Unpredictable. Wonderful characters.
I received a copy of this book as a gift from the author. This is my honest review.
October 11, 2020
Another magical series final that kept me on the edge of my seat... As cursed mates it was nice to see Carrow and Grey never gave up.
March 31, 2024
Faaaaaake
October 10, 2020
Can cursed mates ever be broken and both still survive?
Carrow and Grey still have the cursed mates bond causing Grey to weaken by the day. Carrow must get the Shadows Guild up, running and fully operational before she completely accepts her power so she can have any hope of saving Grey. As she is cleaning the tower of the Shadows Guild, she finds a locked leather bound book or journal. She rushes over to see Seraphia at the library to figure out how to open in in hopes that I will tell her what to do to save Grey. They get the book open and Carrow takes it home with her to read. It is indecipherable to her at this point. The next morning, after some sleep, Grey comes to her flat and they decide to go back Seraphia to see if she can really it. She can't but, can show them who can and how by taking the portal in the library. Can the make it in time to break the cursed mates bond and save Grey's waning life, will Carrow finally accept all her powers and fully accept her place in the Shadows Guild? This book was amazing, entertaining, solid storyline, just enough back story, an amazing heroine and a love story. Characters are warm, funny, endearing and relatable. I loved this series and am so excited to read Seraphia's soon. Awesome book, I can't recommend it enough and I am waiting for the new to come! Another exceptional reading experience, thanks Linsey Hall.
Carrow and Grey still have the cursed mates bond causing Grey to weaken by the day. Carrow must get the Shadows Guild up, running and fully operational before she completely accepts her power so she can have any hope of saving Grey. As she is cleaning the tower of the Shadows Guild, she finds a locked leather bound book or journal. She rushes over to see Seraphia at the library to figure out how to open in in hopes that I will tell her what to do to save Grey. They get the book open and Carrow takes it home with her to read. It is indecipherable to her at this point. The next morning, after some sleep, Grey comes to her flat and they decide to go back Seraphia to see if she can really it. She can't but, can show them who can and how by taking the portal in the library. Can the make it in time to break the cursed mates bond and save Grey's waning life, will Carrow finally accept all her powers and fully accept her place in the Shadows Guild? This book was amazing, entertaining, solid storyline, just enough back story, an amazing heroine and a love story. Characters are warm, funny, endearing and relatable. I loved this series and am so excited to read Seraphia's soon. Awesome book, I can't recommend it enough and I am waiting for the new to come! Another exceptional reading experience, thanks Linsey Hall.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2020
Very hard to put down! And not just because it gets hot and heavy!
This is the final book in a five part series and I’m basically reviewing it as one big story, because it IS one big story! I will say that Linsey if very good at leaving you with cliffhangers, but she starts each book off well, so if you start on number three, you don’t feel lost. You’ll just have missed out!
This is essentially a romance between Carrow, a detective wannabe who discovers she has magical powers, and Grey, aka the Devil of Darkvale, a tall dark and handsome, hunky vampire. They are “Cursed Mates” who are at first unsure about the attraction, but as it grows stronger and Carrow figures out about her magical powers, they go through adventures on the road to figuring out how to break the “Cursed” part.
I read into the wee hours last night, not getting out of bed the next day until after 6:00 reading the last half of the series. There was much I SHOULD have been doing...oh well, it will just have to wait until tomorrow!
My one little nit pick - Carrow and Grey travel back to 1642 at one point. Carrow makes a comment about the furnishings of the time, and Grey says yes, they were “staider” back then. He should have said “more staid”. I can see Carrow saying “staider”, but not Grey. 😉
This is the final book in a five part series and I’m basically reviewing it as one big story, because it IS one big story! I will say that Linsey if very good at leaving you with cliffhangers, but she starts each book off well, so if you start on number three, you don’t feel lost. You’ll just have missed out!
This is essentially a romance between Carrow, a detective wannabe who discovers she has magical powers, and Grey, aka the Devil of Darkvale, a tall dark and handsome, hunky vampire. They are “Cursed Mates” who are at first unsure about the attraction, but as it grows stronger and Carrow figures out about her magical powers, they go through adventures on the road to figuring out how to break the “Cursed” part.
I read into the wee hours last night, not getting out of bed the next day until after 6:00 reading the last half of the series. There was much I SHOULD have been doing...oh well, it will just have to wait until tomorrow!
My one little nit pick - Carrow and Grey travel back to 1642 at one point. Carrow makes a comment about the furnishings of the time, and Grey says yes, they were “staider” back then. He should have said “more staid”. I can see Carrow saying “staider”, but not Grey. 😉
December 17, 2020
Solid Urban Fantasy Series
This is a good, solid urban fantasy series and I’m sorry to see it end. The adventure to the deadly castle in Transylvania where Grey was turned into a vampire has good tension as well as revisiting the past where Carrow meets her several,times great grandmother, the terrible Councilor Rasla and Grey’s earlier version of himself. As usual, the cast of friends are supportive but play a lesser role in this story.
The raven change was predictable, unfortunately, Beatrix does not really play a role except to appear and the ending bothered me because it felt a bit too pat and diminishing. If Carrow was Grey’s anchor, as he states, why didn’t he appear before as she was frantically searching for him? Why wait until she enters the winter scene? Imho, he should have again acknowledged the mountains as a representative of who he is, more fully tying together what he had said earlier, and that he hoped she would find him, as she does. It would have been more uplifting and satisfying if Carrow had been applauded for her action and quick insightfulness in figuring out that Grey was exactly where she found him. Instead, what he says felt a bit condescending rather than romantic.
This is a good, solid urban fantasy series and I’m sorry to see it end. The adventure to the deadly castle in Transylvania where Grey was turned into a vampire has good tension as well as revisiting the past where Carrow meets her several,times great grandmother, the terrible Councilor Rasla and Grey’s earlier version of himself. As usual, the cast of friends are supportive but play a lesser role in this story.
The raven change was predictable, unfortunately, Beatrix does not really play a role except to appear and the ending bothered me because it felt a bit too pat and diminishing. If Carrow was Grey’s anchor, as he states, why didn’t he appear before as she was frantically searching for him? Why wait until she enters the winter scene? Imho, he should have again acknowledged the mountains as a representative of who he is, more fully tying together what he had said earlier, and that he hoped she would find him, as she does. It would have been more uplifting and satisfying if Carrow had been applauded for her action and quick insightfulness in figuring out that Grey was exactly where she found him. Instead, what he says felt a bit condescending rather than romantic.
September 6, 2020
“Cursed Mates” is the culmination of Carrow and Grey’s story. The answers to the questions that previously eluded us are finally answered. For example we learn what Carrow is, the significance of the invisible crow and how to destroy the cursed mate stigma.
When I first began reading this book I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy it as much as the previous books. However, very quickly that changed and I was totally enveloped in the storyline.
The crow leads Carrow to the tower in the Guild where she discovers a mysterious book. She takes the book to the librarian to get her assistance in opening and then decoding it. From there things chang drastically as secrets begin to be revealed. There is plenty of action and intrigue. Additionally, we are taken back in time to fill in some holes in both Carrow and Grey’s past.
While this book is the culmination of Carrow and Grey’s story it is not the end to the Guild series. The next book will feature Seraphia’s story and we will learn who she really is. All in all, I enjoyed this book and series and can’t wait to see what else Ms. Hall has in store for us.
When I first began reading this book I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy it as much as the previous books. However, very quickly that changed and I was totally enveloped in the storyline.
The crow leads Carrow to the tower in the Guild where she discovers a mysterious book. She takes the book to the librarian to get her assistance in opening and then decoding it. From there things chang drastically as secrets begin to be revealed. There is plenty of action and intrigue. Additionally, we are taken back in time to fill in some holes in both Carrow and Grey’s past.
While this book is the culmination of Carrow and Grey’s story it is not the end to the Guild series. The next book will feature Seraphia’s story and we will learn who she really is. All in all, I enjoyed this book and series and can’t wait to see what else Ms. Hall has in store for us.
October 11, 2020
Oh my! What a ride this has been!
I am so pleased to have read this and can only recommend this to people loving
- strong story
- one-on-one romance
- no love triangles
- no backstabbing friends
It’s not a perfect world, that would be boring. There are great hurdles to overcome, but the nasty stuff that makes some stories an unpleasant read are blissfully lacking!
To be honest - the cover was a bit of a turn-off. I thought this was one of the many ditsy, forgettable, quick reads, but boy was I wrong.
This story was AMAZING!
It felt fresh, full of new ideas. Lovely world building, great character exploration. The right balance of constant story progression and romance.
I pretty much only read books that have as a root some strong romance and this series really satisfied.
It was also the right balance of „grown up“. It’s not at all erotica, but there are some exciting moments, which make the romance that much more realistic.
The friendships that are build here are true and deep and that just leaves a good feeling while reading.
If you are at all interested in the genre - Please read this series. You will miss out if you don’t!
I am so pleased to have read this and can only recommend this to people loving
- strong story
- one-on-one romance
- no love triangles
- no backstabbing friends
It’s not a perfect world, that would be boring. There are great hurdles to overcome, but the nasty stuff that makes some stories an unpleasant read are blissfully lacking!
To be honest - the cover was a bit of a turn-off. I thought this was one of the many ditsy, forgettable, quick reads, but boy was I wrong.
This story was AMAZING!
It felt fresh, full of new ideas. Lovely world building, great character exploration. The right balance of constant story progression and romance.
I pretty much only read books that have as a root some strong romance and this series really satisfied.
It was also the right balance of „grown up“. It’s not at all erotica, but there are some exciting moments, which make the romance that much more realistic.
The friendships that are build here are true and deep and that just leaves a good feeling while reading.
If you are at all interested in the genre - Please read this series. You will miss out if you don’t!
December 27, 2021
*Mild spoilers following because last in a series*
3,5 stars - This is the kind of story I would have loved for this series to be, if this book were stretched over a few books and a little bit of the plot from the first fourth books, I would have loved this series. But just because this last book was, in my opinion, better than the first books, it still was not that great to be a full 4 star book. As I said, it should have been stretched out because the story would have been perfect for a longer, slower story. The romance finally developed without the back and fourth and the overall plot finally was somewhat thrilling but still too fast paced but I had a lot more fun with it. The ending was really nice, I love a good happy ending but it was not enough to forget the medicore first four books. This last book was definitely the best of the series and has so much unused potential and I'm happy the series ends with a stronger book but I still would not recommend this series to anyone who searches for a good steamy fantasy story, because this series was kind of weak in both parts.
3,5 stars - This is the kind of story I would have loved for this series to be, if this book were stretched over a few books and a little bit of the plot from the first fourth books, I would have loved this series. But just because this last book was, in my opinion, better than the first books, it still was not that great to be a full 4 star book. As I said, it should have been stretched out because the story would have been perfect for a longer, slower story. The romance finally developed without the back and fourth and the overall plot finally was somewhat thrilling but still too fast paced but I had a lot more fun with it. The ending was really nice, I love a good happy ending but it was not enough to forget the medicore first four books. This last book was definitely the best of the series and has so much unused potential and I'm happy the series ends with a stronger book but I still would not recommend this series to anyone who searches for a good steamy fantasy story, because this series was kind of weak in both parts.
August 31, 2023
As usual, Linsey Hall’s books are fantastic!! Always quick paced, ass kicking, and all about coming into their magic/power. This was the first time I felt I had unanswered questions and felt a little bothered. Like why didn’t we understand more about the jewel Carrow was able to hold onto? Since there aren’t any books on Beatrice (maybe one day!) a little more about her would’ve been nice. Also, usually the female leads tend to have to go through trials, battles, sacrifices, or something grand to fully come into their magic and Carrow only needed to believe in herself which was a little disappointing. I’m glad she got to finally meet her mom but I wished it was her mom who would’ve been the one to help her instead of Evangeline (I understand why she was important though) or at least got to see her mom answer some questions. Even though I’m nagging because I became spoiled with her books, this series was still AMAZING.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2020
Carrow is sure that the Shadow Guild has the answers for the Cursed Mate Bond with Grey. She knows they are running out of time. Carrow is surprised by Eve's Raven, it seems to be helping her. She makes a discovery that she knows somehow will help her. Grey is trying to find out if information on the bond. He is even reaching out to others from his past. Grey knows he is getting worse, that they don't have much time.
Together Carrow and Grey will go see someone's from Grey's past. Things don't go as planned. Carrow learns she must learn about her past in order to save her future.
This was a great book in the final series. The author will hook you as soon as you start reading. There is something for everyone in this series. I am sorry to see the series end, but excited for more with these group of characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Together Carrow and Grey will go see someone's from Grey's past. Things don't go as planned. Carrow learns she must learn about her past in order to save her future.
This was a great book in the final series. The author will hook you as soon as you start reading. There is something for everyone in this series. I am sorry to see the series end, but excited for more with these group of characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review.
September 3, 2020
Wow
I love Carrow. I think she's grown a ton in the 5 books and in accepting her magic. This book isn't about saving all of Guild City or the magical world, its about learning about and saving herself... and... ok... maybe Grey from the Cursed Mate bond. But mostly its about Carrow. Her friends are amazing and I can't wait to see where Linsey goes with them. Based on past stories, I'm hoping that Seraphia, Eve, Quinn, B, and Mac each get stories... and maybe a trio of witches?? Oh I can't wait . Sooooo good
If you've read the Mythean Arcana series by Linsey, you may recognize a magical talent in this book that has a completely different look or form. I love that magic can take on so many different forms.
I love Carrow. I think she's grown a ton in the 5 books and in accepting her magic. This book isn't about saving all of Guild City or the magical world, its about learning about and saving herself... and... ok... maybe Grey from the Cursed Mate bond. But mostly its about Carrow. Her friends are amazing and I can't wait to see where Linsey goes with them. Based on past stories, I'm hoping that Seraphia, Eve, Quinn, B, and Mac each get stories... and maybe a trio of witches?? Oh I can't wait . Sooooo good
If you've read the Mythean Arcana series by Linsey, you may recognize a magical talent in this book that has a completely different look or form. I love that magic can take on so many different forms.
December 30, 2020
Good light reading for a series such as this
Cheery, well thought out characters without too much back story for each, indeed, some might consider perhaps too little.
The author has a light disposition which comes through into her style of writing. Yes it is fantasy, but there were things at times which I felt were just too convenient, moments were she had glossed over a scene that could have potentially had much more depth and taken my rating to a five.
I feel that although there are some quite intimate love scenes, these books are beautifully placed for teenagers. That said, I'm 41 and found them easily digestible in spare moments for reading.
One thing that I did find tedious and was the other reason for my four star rating, was the copious use of potion throwing. Argh!!
I'd recommend you try this series, especially if you love witches and vampires.
Cheery, well thought out characters without too much back story for each, indeed, some might consider perhaps too little.
The author has a light disposition which comes through into her style of writing. Yes it is fantasy, but there were things at times which I felt were just too convenient, moments were she had glossed over a scene that could have potentially had much more depth and taken my rating to a five.
I feel that although there are some quite intimate love scenes, these books are beautifully placed for teenagers. That said, I'm 41 and found them easily digestible in spare moments for reading.
One thing that I did find tedious and was the other reason for my four star rating, was the copious use of potion throwing. Argh!!
I'd recommend you try this series, especially if you love witches and vampires.
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