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Desert Cursed #8

Kingdom of Storms

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Looking to rescue dragon hatchlings? Check. Piss off a demon in the process? Check. Have my mate stolen by a raging psycho who wants his babies? Damn . . . .

I, Zamira “Reckless” Wilson, do solemnly swear I wanted a vacation from trouble. The problem is, trouble did not want a vacation from me or those that I love.

We managed to pass the first test set out for us by the desert goddess on our path to finding the dragon hatchlings. Of course, that means I really have the eye of Asag, the Beast from the East, on me now.

Maks has been taken by a woman known as the Storm Queen. As her pet and possibly as her baby daddy. So instead of going after the second step that would take us closer to Asag and the dragons, I am racing south to the Sea of Storms to rescue Maks. Queen or no queen, I am not giving up on my mate.

But like all things in my life, nothing is going as planned. I’ve ended up with another Jinn to deal with, a five-year-old shifter who loves to call out my cursing, and a detour that takes me away from Maks.

The clock is ticking, and we are closing in on the players that would stop us from making things right . . .if only my black cat bad luck would ease off, we’d be good.

223 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 18, 2021

443 people are currently reading
1080 people want to read

About the author

Shannon Mayer

155 books7,277 followers
A long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.

I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)

Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.

I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)

As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.

Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.

Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.

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5 stars
2,233 (72%)
4 stars
688 (22%)
3 stars
148 (4%)
2 stars
16 (<1%)
1 star
8 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
Profile Image for Seraphia Bunny.
2,116 reviews34 followers
September 18, 2021
Kingdom of Storms continues Shannon Mayers Desert Cursed series and you’re not going to want to miss out on this fast-paced novel. Since it has been a while since book seven, I personally reread that book to have the storyline fresh in my head before I dived headfirst into book eight. The first task to get to the demon Asag has been completed, but at what cost? Balder’s father – lost, Maks – is hostage to the Storm Queen who wants him to father her child. Now, Asag is on the move to punish Mamitu and to try and lay claim to the young shifter Reyhan. Zam really has her hands full, but when does she not these days?
It’s been a long wait for Kingdom of Storms, but the wait was worth it. This author does not disappoint with this book as she gives you all the feels. Danger stalks Zam’s every step. She’s been given safe passage by Mamitu, but in order to continue the “game” she must head to the next of Asag’s “guardians.” She’s determined to save Maks, but things aren’t going to go exactly her way. Zam is really going to be tested, yet again, with a cast of characters who just know which way the wind is going to blow them.
This book is a real page-turner. There are some things that are repeated almost immediately though. I’m on the fence about how I feel about it. On one hand, it fits in certain moments, and then in others, it seems redundant to repeat what was just said. Zam and Maks are really put through some serious paces in this story, but there isn’t much that I can complain about.
I’m rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series and find out what happens next with Zam and the rest of them.
Profile Image for ~Shawna the crazy coffee reader~.
521 reviews41 followers
September 16, 2021
Dang it Zam! There is no rest for the desert guardian. With the opening pages she is battling for her life again. Zam and Lila are an unstoppable duo and they will not quit until the demon is destroyed. However, she has so much ahead of her. She is toting a child with her on her adventures because what else could she do, leave her? I think not! Unfortunately the demon loves young jinn females and he continues to send his minions driving them further off the path. The storm queen is the absolute worst and wants to break maks for her own use. Hopefully Zamira can make it in time.

This book has a complete book arc and the overall story arc continues forward. We get to know some additional characters, even if we dislike them. This is not a sedate romance novel, this is a bad mamajama female lead that will do anything for her family and friends that she loves. There is action, heartache, and you will rage at what they go through. BUT I have grown to love the characters and this world. The loyalty between our main characters is astounding and touching. When life keeps giving you crap and you are at your darkest hours, we see who will be there for you in more than words. Shannon Mayer uses her keyboard like a warrior and slays us every time. Waiting (impatiently) for the next book!
Profile Image for Jennifer Ashburn.
300 reviews5 followers
November 7, 2021
the saga continues!

Another great book in the Desert Cursed series! Sam is getting closer to facing Asag, taking on the second of threetrials set in prophecy for defeating the demon. From Mamitu to Pazuzu - Zam hurdles ahead on her journey. She wishes to find Maks her mate but when she is told the trials must be done in order or not succeed at all she learns Maks will not be next on her list.
They pick up new travel companions on their journey, one will be friend and one will be foe…which will join her ranks you will have to read to know!
Profile Image for Teresa .
1,919 reviews4 followers
June 8, 2024
Poor mak

I did not get why she jumped to the demons tune and played his game.The Mak stuff was hard to read after all it is sexual foreplay aghast his will. Warning people not for young minds to read.
Profile Image for Heather Rainwater-Alvarado.
399 reviews18 followers
August 11, 2022
Another High-Flying Epic Adventure!

Wow! The action in this series really makes you fly through it. I wasn’t a big fan of Maks’ & Zam’s separation in this book (distance, not romantic), but as with all Mayer’s books - it makes sense by the end. A lot of Maks’s situation was pretty cringe-worthy but thankfully never crossed the R line. The twist at the end was like a train wreck you couldn’t look away from but knew it was coming, & still devastated you to see. I need to know what will happen next - now.
Profile Image for Elizabeth  A.  Rochel .
70 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2021
Awe man!

Shannon Mayer is the best writer! I've read everything else she's written and I can't get enough of the stories. They have grit, strength, softness and deep down, stand behind ya, love! I love it!
Profile Image for Jami.
118 reviews3 followers
September 24, 2021
Maks, Balder, Reyhan and Lila all ride with Zamira again to take down a real asshat of a demon, Asag, who has control of half of the desert, and wants the WHOLE desert and then the WORLD. Yeah. Like I said, asshat! Zamira and Co. have to do it in stages called quests and in these quests are items that she needs to get and bring to the next "person" on her list. The thing is, that no one can tell her where these items are located, what they look like or how many beasts are around to battle. They can only give her a general idea of where it might be. And there are RULES that must be followed. One little deviation from the rules and the whole thing is null and void. And it's not like she can just say "Mulligan" and start over. If she doesn't follow the rules, she, and the rest of her family dies. End of story. That'd make for a dull story, but still. This time, she's got a new couple of...."friends"...we'll call them friends for lack of a better term, they meet along this path they're on. And you know wherever Zamira Reckless Wilson goes, mayhem is just around the corner. What will it be this time???
Profile Image for Norma's Nook.
424 reviews13 followers
September 17, 2021
Goodness, you can feel the end creeping up on Zam and crew. The pace of this one is unrelenting. Exhausting, even. You feel the frustration in every bit of Zam and Lila.

After acquiring the vase, Zam, Lila, and Reyhan are on a mission to rescue Maks from the Storm Queen, but almost everything gets in the way! It's challenge after challenge without end, as the demon, Asag, tries his best to stop her on the road to banishing him.

While the Shakespeare, sass, and friendships still thrive, the stress and anxiety is a palpable force hovering over everyone. It takes its toll, that's for sure. As the clues continue to be pieced together, there's still plenty to be discovered, and Shannon's keeping the finale close to her chest.

The action is well thought out, the bonds strong, and the writing is fun and hard to put down. It goes as such a pace that tearing away is impossible, as important point after point comes to pass. I was thoroughly caught up in this adventure from beginning to end. I can't wait to see what's next.
Profile Image for S M.
16 reviews
September 19, 2021
I have been reading the desert cursed series by Shannon Mayer since the beginning, and boy - it is getting better with every book!
When you think the story is done, you realize it has just begun!
What I really enjoy in this entire series and particularly in this book is how Zam's family (chosen and blood) is coming for her to help, support and fight with her.
It is such a powerful story, especially in our current challenging times and sends a beautiful message to everyone out there!
As with all books from Shannon Meyer, the only thing I personally do not like is the pacing - things seem to happen in a few days and there never seems to be rest for our heroes. It may be intentional and it takes nothing away from the story I so love.
If you enjoyed the previous books in the series, you will love this one. It does end with a hook, like all of them, but not a cliffhanger that leaves you in the middle of the story.
It still leaves you wanting desperately for the next one, not gonna lie, hehe ;)
53 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2021
Kingdom Of Storms. by Shannon Mayer
Not too many books can bring me to tears. This one did. The ending is written with so very much emotion that I am still tearing up. Perhaps after the whirlwind ride of the story, the depth of feeling at the end just got to me. Truthfully, I don't care why. I am just glad Ms Mayer has written it. Zamira is a character that does not suffer fools well. She has a heart as big as the desert she lives in and holds her friends and family close. She trusts, but not blindly. When she has been fooled she regroups and moves forward. Her determination and pure will to do what is right, leads her. Currently she is on a quest to save baby dragons. Before getting the information on their location, she must fulfill certain quests. None of these quests are easy. Her mate, Maks, has been taken by the Queen of storms for her own purpose. That situation must be remedied. Getting to Maks, defeating all the enemies in her way, all the while protecting a small Jinn girl is not an easy task. That she does it all despite the odds, takes us on a major thrill ride.
Profile Image for Erin McDaniel Coolbaugh.
83 reviews
September 20, 2021
This is best read in a quiet, relaxing space. You’re going to need it because this book is tense and action packed. There isn’t a single moment of rest for poor Zam. She’s completed the first task laid out by the demon, Asag, and now must race on to the next. First, she must save Toad. The next task requires her to acquire a diamond. Should be simple. That’s what Zam did for Ish – steal gems. Best part, the diamond is being held in the same location as Maks. If only things were really that simple. Stuck with another controlling weapon, a useless male companion, and an army of rock men after them, the journey is fraught with danger and plenty of near misses. This book is so good. My only complaint is that I read it too fast. It’s so hard to savor a Shannon Mayer book when she keeps you on your toes the entire book. I can’t wait to see what kind of trouble Zam, Lila, and Maks get into in the next book.
104 reviews1 follower
September 16, 2021
Wow, what a ride.... Shannon sure does know how to please and she ups her game with every book she writes......
Zam is one person you don't want to piss off, cause if you do then you're in a world of hurt. And you don't take her Man cause if you do then you done entered a world of hurt times 10..... Guess what, the Ice Queen is x's 10 now, LOL, She gonna see what I mean by don't mess with my family......
This book will keep you on your toes and the edge of your seat.... Better dip your fingers in hot sauce so you don't chew your nails off, and hang on tight. Zam and Lila gonna show you folks a rip roaring good ole time, and also why you don't mess with loved ones.
This book is very well written and I highly recommend this book....
Profile Image for Erin.
3,533 reviews80 followers
September 18, 2021
Insanely exciting and utterly thrilling!

The end is nearing and the plot is thickening - by the time the final book comes out I don’t think I will have any fingernails left! I have bitten them all off with utter anticipation of how this story is all going to end.

There is so much being thrown at Zam and her crew that we readers are kept constantly on the edges of our seats not knowing what the hell is going to come at them next when we turn the page. It’s exciting, thrilling and highly entertaining right to the very end.

Zam continues to take us on one hell of an epic adventure that is filled with suspense, mystery, action, danger and twists and turns we never see coming.

Brilliantly written as always! I can’t wait to for the conclusion of this amazing series.
Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,929 reviews116 followers
September 18, 2021
Damn! This is just freaking awesome! Zam, Maks, Balder and Lila are back and of course so is the trouble that seems to follow them! I absolutely love this rollercoaster ride and am happy to jump back on anytime. The world building is so incredible and the storyline so descriptive that you actually feel as though you are riding right along with Zam as she travels to rescue Maks whose been kidnapped by the storm queen! I love the action, love the adventure, I love the danger and excitement and I absolutely love the characters and their relationships and whenever I pick one of these books up that is it for the rest of the day cause I cannot, sorry I will not put it down! Friendship, loyalty and love can take you a long way in life as Zam is finding out in the amazing series.

Profile Image for Marilyn.
758 reviews56 followers
January 5, 2023
As usual I had a glorious fun time reading about the escapades of Zam and Lila. Maks is more a supporting character here. Also some new characters are introduced. Vahab, the original Jinn, Dani, the Storm Queen, and Fen, an emerald dragon.
Maks is kidnapped by the queen to impregnate her with child. Apparently she needs a Jinn donor.
Asag, a demon, wants to take over the world with his golem army. Zam and Lila need to team up with these others to defeat him. There are some interesting creatures introduced as well.
My only complaint is the constant sexual obsession with Maks as a possible father to be and Zam dwelling on it so much. This wasn’t my favorite storyline but it still was a grand old time.
Profile Image for Cricket.
210 reviews3 followers
September 22, 2021
This book is so well written. The story just pulls you in. The characters are well developed and written. The scenes are written with great care and detail.
I love Zam, Lila and Maks. I love how strong of a main character Zam is, she doesn't take any thing from anyone. She is tough, but has so much love for her pack and family. That love gets her in to trouble most of the time and other times it just seems like she has really bad luck.
I love how Lila and Zam always throw Shakes Spear quotes out at each other and at Maks, even in the middle of danger or a fight.
If you love a great story full of action, great fight scenes, humor, snark and you do not mind the occasional cuss word, a book that pulls you in fro the first word and keeps a hold of you until the last word then this is the book for you. But I suggest you start at the very beginning with Witches Reign.
Read this series, thank me later.
451 reviews3 followers
September 25, 2021
Beyond compare! There are no words to sum up brilliance!

Every time I think Shannon Mayer can’t take Zamira through anything worse or make her character shine any more brilliantly than it already does, she writes a new book with such genius that I feel like there is no way to write a review that can encompass just how deeply impressed I am. I don’t do spoilers, and man oh man, you would love the ones that stick out but I hate when I can’t tell you the parts that made me totally scare everyone when I suddenly burst out with laughter and mumble under my breath at certain unnamed characters just now.
This will definitely be on my personal collection shelf!
233 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2021
I absolutely love the way this audible bring this story alive. The characters are fun, the supernatural beings are dangerous, the quest is grueling, romance finds a way and the humor makes me laugh! I love that Zam isn’t alone as she follows the rules and sets out to complete the very difficult tasks. Maks, Lila and Balder are determined to help, but Zam also has a way about her that attracts new allies. This action-packed story has danger, demons, Jinn, the Storm Queen, Asag, Vahab, Lilith, Rhuk, Pillars, Pazuzu, a quest, Mamitu, suspense, Ice Drakes, the Dream Scape, magic, weapons, battles, romance, humor, twists and turns and more!
Profile Image for Leslie.
37 reviews
September 10, 2021
I read this book so fast I didn’t realize it was done until I couldn’t turn the page anymore! It’s been a little while since we’ve heard from Zam. She was on her way to rescue her mate with some new characters in tow. Reyhan and Fen are great additions and I can’t wait to see what magic Shannon does with them. There is fantastic humor that had me laughing out loud numerous times. The ending twists threw me. I didn’t expect them but WOW! Loved this book and can’t wait to see what Shannon does with the next book!
Profile Image for Penny.
3,146 reviews87 followers
September 17, 2021
I absolutely love Zam and Lila, so I was ready to dive into this eighth book in the series. IN this latest, Zam is trying to get to Maks who’s been kidnapped by the Storm Queen. This queen wants a jinn baby, and she is determined that he will give her one. I do like the addition of the new characters, and I’m excited to see how the relationship between of them and another main character go. It’s so darn cute! LOL! With the great writing, exciting action, and obstacles overcame, this was a great book, and I’m excited to read the next one. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,522 reviews83 followers
September 18, 2021
Immersed in Zam’s world is truly a great ride to be in. The present disappears as you confront the many beasts that are in Zam’s and Lila’s way. The obstacles keep coming and world building is awesome. It truly is a page turner as we continue to follow along Maks journey too. Oh my heart!! So many heartstrings being pulled, similar to Zam. I absolutely LOVE this book!! Filled with action that leaves your adrenaline pumping and ready for the next fight. I cannot wait for the next book!! So ready for it.
Profile Image for D. Arkadie.
67 reviews1 follower
September 18, 2021
Hard to believe we've arrived at book 8 in this series! Like all the rest, this wild ride is over way too soon and leaves you wanting more. With her pack scattered, Zam is being pursued by dangerous enemies while running head long towards another powerful foe to reclaim the love of her life. This is definitely a journey you don't want to miss with some genuine LOL moments. Ultimately Zam's tale is one of loyalty, love, and perseverance in spite of the impossible odds stacked against her. A must-read chapter in the Desert Cursed series!
Profile Image for Sandra Bianchini .
100 reviews4 followers
September 19, 2021
Once again Shannon Mayer treats us to another spectacular story in the Desert Cursed series. I absolutely adore Zam’s story where along the way you fall in love with with Maks and Lila and all the other characters in this series. I don’t like to put spoilers in my reviews so if you haven’t already started reading this series you need too. The writing just flows and takes you away to another world where you get so invested in the characters you just cannot put the book down.
Enjoy and happy reading!
43 reviews
September 21, 2021
You know a book is good when you read the Acknowledgments and enjoy it

I have said this before, I am going to break my screen trying to swipe for more. From the 1st page (the Acknowledgment) to the very last, this book takes you and does not let go. Zam and Lila are on the way to save Maks, and of course, meet and make some new "friends"-because who doesn't love a goddess-crowned alpha of the desert, guardian, Jinn, shifter mutt and a Shakespeare quoting, acid spitting dragon? To say I loved this book is an understatement. I can't wait for the next book!
137 reviews3 followers
September 27, 2021
WOW!!! Action from the first page and a thrill ride

I was so psyched up by the end of this book, I was angry I have to wait for the next.

As usual, phenomenal writing by Shannon Mayer. I have to say I think this is the best book in the series and that’s saying something as they are all so good!!

Our regulars, Zam, Maks & Lila meet up with more characters, good, bad and questionable. All of it coming to make a fantastic read!!

I believe the final book will be the best of this series and I cannot wait to see how Shannon ends this epic series!!
Profile Image for Donna.
1,770 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2021
4 1/2 stars
I liked this book better than some of the earlier ones. The Storm Queen was a right bitch and it was good to see her get her just desserts. I am curious as to why her grandmother was still around. What happened to the SQ’s mother?

It looks like Zam is acquiring all the components needed for a showdown with the demon. She appears to have the necessary strength, evidenced by her vanquishing Lilith. I’m curious if Reyhan’s father is accompanying Zam’s pride since he had taken refuge at Mamitu's stronghold if I remember correctly. Glad that Lila and Fen may become an item.
Profile Image for Betteroffwithbooks.
921 reviews14 followers
December 2, 2021
Zamira and friends never seem to catch a break. As soon as they tackle one challenge another is thrown at them but as always, they take it in stride. They do what needs to be done to save and help the people around them. This group of characters is one of my absolute favorites and I love every bit of their adventures. Shannon has outdone herself yet again. She brings the Desert Cursed world to life with such vivid detail. I always have a hard time putting her books down. I am curious to see how she ends the next chapter in the story!
1,533 reviews3 followers
December 24, 2021
Brilliant

Another absolute gem by this author every book is an amazing journey the characters grab you by the throat and won't let go you are with them throughout all their trials. Zam is an incredible heroine and trouble follows wherever she goes but she never gives up or gives in she fights tooth and claw for everyone she cares about and to right the wrongs of others and to set people free from tryanny will she won against the demon with her family at her side anything is possible cannot wait for the next book to find out.
27 reviews
October 22, 2022
Can it get any better?

It seems like the more I read The Desert Cursed series the more surprises that there are. I've tried to teach others to appreciate the printed word and not to depend on a visual scene. If you were watching this there is so much they would have to leave out, but that would make this impossible. Read and develop your own imagination and create your own visual in your head of what the characters look like and move. I can see all the characters and wouldn't be surprised to see them walk up my steps and introduce themselves. Thank you for your writings
Profile Image for Lynne.
177 reviews
October 26, 2023
“I am Here! I am With You”

Zam will do anything for her family and saving Maks from the Storm Queen is just one of the things she has to contend with in this action packed instalment!

Maks being held captive by the crazy Storm Queen was a little uncomfortable for me at times, but his love for Zam won through. Lila is just fantastic, a tiny little pocket rocket and her spouting of Shakespeare is so clever! Loved Lauren Fortgang’s narration - she brings another dimension to the story and brings the characters alive! A must read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews

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