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Mages of Mistvale #1
Touch of Magic
alternate cover edition of ASIN B08HSBP37G
Fate always has a plan...
Jai:
I've lived my whole life with a terminal illness, knowing I'd never be "normal." I basically just existed, one day at a time with my dog as my sole, faithful companion. Then one day, Fate intervened and an encounter with a beautiful man gave me something I'd never had before: Hope.
Could I really have the life I never thought I would have? Could I have all the things I'd only ever dreamed of having?
Health, happiness, a full life...love?
Raphael:
I was always the black sheep of the family, the mage with faulty magic. I'd lived for a hundred and fifty years being taunted and put down, and I'd had to take it all with a smile.
When I'd finally had enough, I left my home in Ravenshire and moved to Mistvale. Fate intervened when I was least expecting it and a chance encounter with a beautiful man tipped my world on its axis, and I discovered things I hadn't known about myself.
Could Jai really be the answer to all my questions?
Touch of Magic is a 70k words story including a goofy mage, a human who believes in magic, a squirrel who is intent on setting them up and a best friend who will threaten anyone who tried to hurt his bestie.
Fate always has a plan...
Jai:
I've lived my whole life with a terminal illness, knowing I'd never be "normal." I basically just existed, one day at a time with my dog as my sole, faithful companion. Then one day, Fate intervened and an encounter with a beautiful man gave me something I'd never had before: Hope.
Could I really have the life I never thought I would have? Could I have all the things I'd only ever dreamed of having?
Health, happiness, a full life...love?
Raphael:
I was always the black sheep of the family, the mage with faulty magic. I'd lived for a hundred and fifty years being taunted and put down, and I'd had to take it all with a smile.
When I'd finally had enough, I left my home in Ravenshire and moved to Mistvale. Fate intervened when I was least expecting it and a chance encounter with a beautiful man tipped my world on its axis, and I discovered things I hadn't known about myself.
Could Jai really be the answer to all my questions?
Touch of Magic is a 70k words story including a goofy mage, a human who believes in magic, a squirrel who is intent on setting them up and a best friend who will threaten anyone who tried to hurt his bestie.
285 pages, ebook
First published October 2, 2020
307 people are currently reading
472 people want to read
About the author
Stella Rainbow
55 books276 followersStella Rainbow is the pen name of a twenty something woman from India. Her heart is too full of rainbow colored stories to be limited by the lack of awareness in her home country.
Stella spends her days cuddling up with her cat, typing out new stories, daydreaming and reading all the books she can get her hands on.
She loves talking to her readers and other book lovers, so don't hesitate in contacting her on any of her socials or emailing her at authorstellarainbow@gmail.com
Stella spends her days cuddling up with her cat, typing out new stories, daydreaming and reading all the books she can get her hands on.
She loves talking to her readers and other book lovers, so don't hesitate in contacting her on any of her socials or emailing her at authorstellarainbow@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
October 10, 2020
I really liked this. Right up until these two get together, and then I suddenly found myself dunked in syrup and coated in sugar.
It was just a bit too much sugar for my taste. I love a sweet romance, but somehow this didn't quite fit the first part of the story, before these guys get together.
After they get together it's all 'I'm crying all the time because I'm so happy!'
It gets tired after a while.
It was just a bit too much sugar for my taste. I love a sweet romance, but somehow this didn't quite fit the first part of the story, before these guys get together.
After they get together it's all 'I'm crying all the time because I'm so happy!'
It gets tired after a while.
January 10, 2021
I’ve skipped past this book so many times since I really really dislike the cover. But I wanted to read the second book (much better cover) Sleep of Eternity. So I decided I’d read this one first.
It’s an entertaining little read but I wasn’t prepared for just how super sweet it is. We’re talking teeth rotting sweet here. Now don’t get me wrong I love a good romance and a HEA is a must. But this was too sweet even for me.
I’m assuming and hoping that the next book has more to it.
January 3, 2021
Omg, that’s done. Good lord, that felt like the book that would never end. And not in a good way.
It was too long winded.
Their romance was spanned over too many months, and all that WITHOUT fucking.
FINALLY, after like 3 months, they manage a blow job. Still no fucking. No, because even though they’re fated mates (and Jai knows), they’re taking things slow. Oh my god. There’s slow, then there’s just ridiculous, boring “slow”.
It’s told with paragraph after paragraph of their inner thoughts and whatever.
Oh Jesus. Spare me the narrative rambling and just show me. 🙄
There was a certain lackluster quality to their romance. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but it lacked passion. Was it that they took things so super duper slow? Maybe. Was it the lack of love making scenes? Idk.
The “best friend” status between Cassian and Jai was SO unbelievable to me. Don’t ask me why, but I could not convince myself that those two were BFFs. It was fucking weird to hear how close they were. I could NOT get behind that friendship. It was forced all the fucking way to the very last page.
Cassian is so incredibly different than Jai, in every way. From the appearance to the way they carry themselves. It just didn’t seem like they’d be best buddies.
Then the whole “kidnapping” plot. 🤦🏻♀️ Really? That felt thrown in there to make a too-long-book even longer.
Then we have the stupid mother. I’m shaking my head and sighing over here. *She showed up at his house?!* Again, really? It’s the end of the fucking book, and you’re going to keep the “drama” going by bringing his mother to his doorstep. Or was that just to make out Jai as a macho man or something?
Neya was cute. The other little critters were cute, but frankly, nothing can save this book for me. It was TOO LONG. Good god. It drrraaaggged.
No. I will not read another one of this author’s books because I don’t want to be subjected to a long ass, narrative story, that’s all about taking things slower than a nun breaking out of a convent. Even though they’re fated mates. 😫
Like, why? Dude, if I found a fated mate I’d be all over that. Eternity with someone that is always going to adore me? And sex that is ALWAYS going to be incredible? Hmmm...yes please. 🙋🏻♀️
It was too long winded.
Their romance was spanned over too many months, and all that WITHOUT fucking.
FINALLY, after like 3 months, they manage a blow job. Still no fucking. No, because even though they’re fated mates (and Jai knows), they’re taking things slow. Oh my god. There’s slow, then there’s just ridiculous, boring “slow”.
It’s told with paragraph after paragraph of their inner thoughts and whatever.
Oh Jesus. Spare me the narrative rambling and just show me. 🙄
There was a certain lackluster quality to their romance. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but it lacked passion. Was it that they took things so super duper slow? Maybe. Was it the lack of love making scenes? Idk.
The “best friend” status between Cassian and Jai was SO unbelievable to me. Don’t ask me why, but I could not convince myself that those two were BFFs. It was fucking weird to hear how close they were. I could NOT get behind that friendship. It was forced all the fucking way to the very last page.
Cassian is so incredibly different than Jai, in every way. From the appearance to the way they carry themselves. It just didn’t seem like they’d be best buddies.
Then the whole “kidnapping” plot. 🤦🏻♀️ Really? That felt thrown in there to make a too-long-book even longer.
Then we have the stupid mother. I’m shaking my head and sighing over here. *She showed up at his house?!* Again, really? It’s the end of the fucking book, and you’re going to keep the “drama” going by bringing his mother to his doorstep. Or was that just to make out Jai as a macho man or something?
Neya was cute. The other little critters were cute, but frankly, nothing can save this book for me. It was TOO LONG. Good god. It drrraaaggged.
No. I will not read another one of this author’s books because I don’t want to be subjected to a long ass, narrative story, that’s all about taking things slower than a nun breaking out of a convent. Even though they’re fated mates. 😫
Like, why? Dude, if I found a fated mate I’d be all over that. Eternity with someone that is always going to adore me? And sex that is ALWAYS going to be incredible? Hmmm...yes please. 🙋🏻♀️
October 1, 2020
Sweet and fluffy, and so adorable, this story just about melted my heart! If it's not enough that Jai and Raph and beyond adorable together by themselves, the fur babies cranked up the cuteness factor by a million. I loved the way the author wrote Jai and Raph's romance. It is a slow burn that sees them really get to know each other and slowly fall in love the more they do. Although they both have some past scars that are a little upsetting to read about, it's really a beautiful and magical story about healing and love that will brighten up any day.
May 11, 2021
This book was sweet, actually it was sticky sweet. I‘ve started and walked away from several books lately so it’s saying something that I finished this one. I liked the characters and I loved their animals. I felt like the resolution to the conflict with Ralph’s parents was too simple, but it was a minor plot point so it didn’t really matter.
June 19, 2021
If you like sweet tales with cute guys and adorable pets where nothing much happens than healing and shy loving and where even the unrealistic kidnapping feels more like bubble on this sirupy goodness, then this is your book ... it wasn't mine.
August 19, 2025
super fluffy and sweet.
I will say it was pretty slow and boring, but I still had fun.
I will say it was pretty slow and boring, but I still had fun.
September 23, 2020
Utterly adorable! A sweet love story with a side of magic. Very much a slow burn with the characters falling in love before we get any steam but I really appreciated that. Although fate has intervened, they are given a choice. The characters go well together and the animals feel like side characters rather than a familiar and pet.
Seems like I'm getting the story I wanted next. Cannot wait for it
Seems like I'm getting the story I wanted next. Cannot wait for it
March 2, 2025
This book is the definition of don’t judge a book by its cover. The cover is one of the worst I’ve ever seen, but the story was one of the cutest urban fantasies I’ve ever read.
September 28, 2020
This author promises books that would bring smiles on the readers' faces and this book delivers those smiles.
Despite the fact that Jai's physical conditions and Raphael's troubled relationship with his family played major roles in the book, it was never too heavy or overwhelming. In fact, the story was concentrated on their healing, on the way both improved each other's life. I liked the fact that they took the time to know one another. They were so, so cute together. One date at a time, touch after touch, they became stronger as individuals and as a couple, and I adored seeing their road toward happiness.
There was a dangerous situation danger in the plotline, but as a whole this is a sweet, fun, mostly angst free story, featuring cute characters, a sassy squirrel, a faithful and adorable dog, a relationship that felt real from the get go, steam and a magical happily ever after.
Despite the fact that Jai's physical conditions and Raphael's troubled relationship with his family played major roles in the book, it was never too heavy or overwhelming. In fact, the story was concentrated on their healing, on the way both improved each other's life. I liked the fact that they took the time to know one another. They were so, so cute together. One date at a time, touch after touch, they became stronger as individuals and as a couple, and I adored seeing their road toward happiness.
There was a dangerous situation danger in the plotline, but as a whole this is a sweet, fun, mostly angst free story, featuring cute characters, a sassy squirrel, a faithful and adorable dog, a relationship that felt real from the get go, steam and a magical happily ever after.
January 25, 2021
3.75 stars
First time reading this author and I enjoyed this one but want to read the second book more. Jai and Raphael were a cute couple and I understand each of their perspectives but it could have been handled better.
First time reading this author and I enjoyed this one but want to read the second book more. Jai and Raphael were a cute couple and I understand each of their perspectives but it could have been handled better.
October 10, 2025
This was so dang adorable, I couldn't stop smiling while listening 🥰 Just nice feel good vibes all around 💗 Joel Leslie was a good narrator too!
March 6, 2022
This was cute
August 17, 2025
4.5 stars. Audiobook. Cute, very sweet, light/easy read with a nice little pop of drama. Totally satisfying, a sweet fated mates romance that was all things insta. A great balanced package with a bit of drama, lovely family, bad family, supportive friends, magic, discovery. All the goodies. I loved that the set-up towards confrontation actually paid out and we got a nice little scene.
Contemporary world with secret magic, human and mage pairing, a nice bit of world building and character introduction that has me interested in immediately reading the next book in the series.
HEA, fated mates, insta-love, human, mage, healer, pets, familiars, mild/medium spice, vers discussed, m/m.
Contemporary world with secret magic, human and mage pairing, a nice bit of world building and character introduction that has me interested in immediately reading the next book in the series.
HEA, fated mates, insta-love, human, mage, healer, pets, familiars, mild/medium spice, vers discussed, m/m.
March 11, 2021
I need to stop getting sucked into Amazon recommendations - this was another miss.
This started off promisingly - guy with terminal cancer, other guy that is a failed wizard with healing powers, instant chemistry. Sounds good right? Eesh no. After things got going this was sweetness overkill, I’m talking cavity inducing.
I had to dnf at 40%, sad that it hadn’t delivered on its promise.
Oh and this one is a proud recipient of the cover-artist-fail tag. Not due to any photoshop blunder but just on the cover model - what is that facial expression?!
This started off promisingly - guy with terminal cancer, other guy that is a failed wizard with healing powers, instant chemistry. Sounds good right? Eesh no. After things got going this was sweetness overkill, I’m talking cavity inducing.
I had to dnf at 40%, sad that it hadn’t delivered on its promise.
Oh and this one is a proud recipient of the cover-artist-fail tag. Not due to any photoshop blunder but just on the cover model - what is that facial expression?!
January 12, 2021
A heartwarming, low angst paranormal romance
The story follows Jai and Raph (a worn down Mage) in the paranormal world of Mistvale.
The author's descriptions of Mistvale is a treat to read. Some really good world building there.
And the chemistry between the duo was so very romantic to read.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommend to those looking for an adorable, fated mates paranormal tale.
The story follows Jai and Raph (a worn down Mage) in the paranormal world of Mistvale.
The author's descriptions of Mistvale is a treat to read. Some really good world building there.
And the chemistry between the duo was so very romantic to read.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommend to those looking for an adorable, fated mates paranormal tale.
November 29, 2020
Mistvale is a magical place with mages, familiars, and paranormal creatures. Jai is a human living with a debilitating disease with his best friend, Padfoot, and only one friend, Cassian, who he has never met in person. Jai works from home despite his family's overprotectiveness as he lives day by day. One day, he trips and falls in front of Raphael who is a Mage who has just moved in down the block from Jai.
He left the Mage Community of Ravenshire because he is tired of his parent’s verbal abuse over his lack of magic. He befriends an injured squirrel and finds his familiar while discovering that he can heal animals. He meets cute and adorable Jai and quickly discovers that he is ill and that they're fated mates. His magic can heal Jai and along the way, both men fall in lover with each other. Throw in an adorable Husky, a squirrel familiar, a kidnapping, and you'll have a magical adventure in Mistvale. Very sweet and low angst with funny moments and magic all around. I really love this book and can't wait for Cassian's story :)
He left the Mage Community of Ravenshire because he is tired of his parent’s verbal abuse over his lack of magic. He befriends an injured squirrel and finds his familiar while discovering that he can heal animals. He meets cute and adorable Jai and quickly discovers that he is ill and that they're fated mates. His magic can heal Jai and along the way, both men fall in lover with each other. Throw in an adorable Husky, a squirrel familiar, a kidnapping, and you'll have a magical adventure in Mistvale. Very sweet and low angst with funny moments and magic all around. I really love this book and can't wait for Cassian's story :)
October 2, 2020
3.5 very cute stars
This was a really cute story and I'm always a sucker for the idea of fated mates. To believe there's someone out there that matches your soul, it's beautiful. What made this different from most insta-love situations between fated mates is the emphasis on them building on their bond by getting to know one another, connecting on a level that's more than just physical. By adding that slightly unique take on the common magical trope we get a much more well-rounded relationship development that's truly believable. I mean, we're dealing in forever here, and starting off strong with both commitment and genuine affection is a great place to start. Building that into a love that can stand the eons before them and it's even better.
Jai is very sweet and so very sick. I liked the dose of reality, that he didn't try to overwork himself just because he didn't like the body fated him, but he saw his limitations clearly. Even though those limitations isolated him, he didn't let them take away from the things that did bring him joy. His relationship with Padfoot was cute, as with his little brother, Joy. Finding Raph was a miracle and a blessing, both for his health, but for the heart that wasn't meant to be alone. He had so much care to give and Raph was the perfect recipient. And seeing him grow into a fierceness I wasn't sure was there made him that much better.
Raphael was similar in his isolation, except his was a far deeper wound because he was rejected and reviled by the family that was supposed to love and support him no matter what. Unfortunately it led to a self-imposed exile from a home he loved, but even tragedy can lead the way to freedom. For him it came in the forms of a saucy squirrel and the mate of his soul. If not for the bad, he wouldn't have found his true self and his forever. Raph was a very sweet man and even though he's described as goofy I didn't see that side of him at all, even the cheesy lines he threw at Jai weren't what I'd say was goofy. His charm is in his giant heart and will to do good despite his circumstances.
I honestly can't wait to delve back into their town to learn all about and more of Cass, the fire mage that comes to everyone's rescue. The kidnapping bit in the story served as a way to bring him over from Ravenshire, but I can't say that it was a great element in the story. It brought about three good things: bringing Cass, showing Jai's fierceness, and making Raph realize his own cowardice...but something about the whole thing just didn't truly fit though I can't exactly put my finger on why. It was kind of out of left field and I felt like something else would have suited the story better and still have done those three things.
Overall this was such a sweet story with really great characters, perfect "pets", and an introduction to a world I'm looking forward to getting back to.
This was a really cute story and I'm always a sucker for the idea of fated mates. To believe there's someone out there that matches your soul, it's beautiful. What made this different from most insta-love situations between fated mates is the emphasis on them building on their bond by getting to know one another, connecting on a level that's more than just physical. By adding that slightly unique take on the common magical trope we get a much more well-rounded relationship development that's truly believable. I mean, we're dealing in forever here, and starting off strong with both commitment and genuine affection is a great place to start. Building that into a love that can stand the eons before them and it's even better.
Jai is very sweet and so very sick. I liked the dose of reality, that he didn't try to overwork himself just because he didn't like the body fated him, but he saw his limitations clearly. Even though those limitations isolated him, he didn't let them take away from the things that did bring him joy. His relationship with Padfoot was cute, as with his little brother, Joy. Finding Raph was a miracle and a blessing, both for his health, but for the heart that wasn't meant to be alone. He had so much care to give and Raph was the perfect recipient. And seeing him grow into a fierceness I wasn't sure was there made him that much better.
Raphael was similar in his isolation, except his was a far deeper wound because he was rejected and reviled by the family that was supposed to love and support him no matter what. Unfortunately it led to a self-imposed exile from a home he loved, but even tragedy can lead the way to freedom. For him it came in the forms of a saucy squirrel and the mate of his soul. If not for the bad, he wouldn't have found his true self and his forever. Raph was a very sweet man and even though he's described as goofy I didn't see that side of him at all, even the cheesy lines he threw at Jai weren't what I'd say was goofy. His charm is in his giant heart and will to do good despite his circumstances.
I honestly can't wait to delve back into their town to learn all about and more of Cass, the fire mage that comes to everyone's rescue. The kidnapping bit in the story served as a way to bring him over from Ravenshire, but I can't say that it was a great element in the story. It brought about three good things: bringing Cass, showing Jai's fierceness, and making Raph realize his own cowardice...but something about the whole thing just didn't truly fit though I can't exactly put my finger on why. It was kind of out of left field and I felt like something else would have suited the story better and still have done those three things.
Overall this was such a sweet story with really great characters, perfect "pets", and an introduction to a world I'm looking forward to getting back to.
December 2, 2023
Feeling a solid 3 right now, but it could shift a smidge. Actually finished this last night, but went to sleep right after and didn't wake up for the next 16 hours. An interesting book to end November on. Anyway, this was a very sweet (like plenty of other reviews attest to, these two goobs end up getting each other practically sticky with their sweetness--and literally with other more salacious fluids), simplistic romance. I didn't have high expectations from this and it delivered a decent enough experience that definitely came across as some wish fulfillment.
I've started to feel a bit odd about pointing it out, but it still feels like it's not done enough, so saying something about it feels like it should be done... Yeah. I appreciated the disability/chronic pain/terminal illness rep. and the incorporation of Indian culture at times with one of the main characters having an Indian mother. The inclusion of some word definitions at the end of the book was a nice touch (though I looked up a lot beforehand since I didn't know it existed and there was no indication it was there to look for). I want a dog like Padfoot now. Like, the animals in this book were excellent (though I was very disappointed that the squirrel didn't actually play as much of a role as the book description pitched it as doing). The animals, some of the romantic moments, and book love thrown in were all excellent. Like, that first date is a dream date, imo. (Heavy judging on the Throne of Glass being thrown in as the perfect magical book for men older than me, though. Not even ACOTAR which I've seen some guys vibe with--no. It had to be the angsty girl assassin book written by a teen. Like, I begrudge that as it has made me feel I must read some of the books so I can feel free to make judgements. So look forward to me possibly reading that at some point in the future.)
I also really enjoyed the simple depiction of a happy, healthy relationship between men. And though sometimes certain iffy aspects of the way people seem to tend to stereotypically depict "good" gay couples (must have a top and bottom with an effeminate, caring, and weak submissive partner bottoming and a more masculine, working, strongly dominant partner as the top) seemed to be coming, they actually kinda got flipped or had different/more things going on than just that. Preesh to the author for that.
Now let's talk some of my problems with this book. This definitely could've used some more editing/proofreading [honestly, at this point I've pointed out editing enough that I'm looking into offering up my editing/proofreading on some freelance websites for book writers and others if they want because clearly my brain has oriented itself towards that so much as of late]. Like, someone being a red-eyed from crying, disheveled mess is not a sight for sore eyes. That's not really how that phrase works. There were some other things, but moving on from the writing in such specifics since it wasn't too bad (definitely not the worst I've seen).
The meta references/throwaway jokes in this book were pretty unimpressive and unfortunately obvious. The references to modern things like Deadpool 2, Throne of Glass, and so on hit me as odd. Not necessarily an inherently bad thing, but strangely jarring to have such a mundane thing just thrown in what with the slightly done worldbuilding with a world of magical beings and all that. Which reminds me of another thing: I was pretty meh and ok on a lot of the worldbuilding that was there (though there isn't a whole lot of worldbuilding), but boy did the explanation for soul mates suck. Like, Fate is pulling some bs on humans with that. This also made me realize that I just can't really get behind a romance focused book that has soul mates as the main trope unless done in an interesting/nuanced way. Like, jealousy, miscommunication, any sort of build-up to connection and romance, and so on all seem like utter rubbish when throwing in that they're soul mates--the only ones they'll have true happiness and a lifelong romance with--and the bond or whatever impacts how they feel.
A sense of plot is very much not there most of the time and when it is there it's promptly dealt with before going back to what the majority of the book is like. This book mostly feels like some of the filler you get when a romantic pair get together in a romance story, and there's mostly little bumps they get through together until there's like some bigger conflict or something they confront together at least. However, the conflicts or thing they confront didn't really feel like it happened in the book. Like, they're pretty much together as a thing nearly before the first fourth of the book. And any time there's insecurities, slight miscommunications that would kinda make some sense to blow up into something more (though I'm not usually a fan of that), or anything that could go towards more of a plot related to the relationship it's succinctly dealt with in a relatively short, saccharine monologue from the other person. I enjoyed that their relationship didn't have much conflict or nonsensical things, dont get me wrong, but just mainly having some glimpses of them in a good relationship without much else going on was a bit eh outside of shorter fiction. I need a little something more going on, at least, even something outside the relationship causing problems, but I suppose what the book does works better than if some of the sillier plot threads that popped up had been pulled. It only barely just was ok for how short the book is, but it was also sort of helped with the near out of nowhere introduction of some quick stress and conflict for silly reasons just over 3/4ths of the way through. Like, even the characters point out how silly it is (including with a meta reference that didn't help) a few times, and it's explained away as panic.
I got the sense it was some wish fulfillment/fantasy for the author who may be in a somewhat similar situation, but sometimes the way one of the main character's life and experience with his illness was written/dealt with struck me as a bit off-putting. Like, this is a person who has lived their whole life with a condition, and it was often all pity and suffering from everyone and for the character. And sometimes it came across that *now* he gets to be happy and live a good life and do all the things now that he's being magically healed. I know it's wish fulfillment and it wasn't always so cut and dry off to me like that, but it just struck me poorly a few times.
Like, not to say it to the author specifically but in general, people who are disabled, sick, or dying can still be happy, cared for and loved, and experience so many things--as much as they can handle. It's a monstrous shame if society doesn't allow them to or makes them feel they shouldn't or can't. The dying, the disabled, the ill, all deserve companionship, to be challenged to change, to be cared about, to love and be loved, and to be as happy as they can be no matter their circumstances. No one is entirely obligated to provide it, but everyone deserves to be provided.
I think I'm done. Hope that was all clear. While the book definitely had its problems, it was still an enjoyable read for me and gave me some of what I was looking for in it (though still wish there was a bit more squirrel manipulating things to get them together than just the one time letting the other know they're mates). Hence, the solid 3 for now.
I've started to feel a bit odd about pointing it out, but it still feels like it's not done enough, so saying something about it feels like it should be done... Yeah. I appreciated the disability/chronic pain/terminal illness rep. and the incorporation of Indian culture at times with one of the main characters having an Indian mother. The inclusion of some word definitions at the end of the book was a nice touch (though I looked up a lot beforehand since I didn't know it existed and there was no indication it was there to look for). I want a dog like Padfoot now. Like, the animals in this book were excellent (though I was very disappointed that the squirrel didn't actually play as much of a role as the book description pitched it as doing). The animals, some of the romantic moments, and book love thrown in were all excellent. Like, that first date is a dream date, imo. (Heavy judging on the Throne of Glass being thrown in as the perfect magical book for men older than me, though. Not even ACOTAR which I've seen some guys vibe with--no. It had to be the angsty girl assassin book written by a teen. Like, I begrudge that as it has made me feel I must read some of the books so I can feel free to make judgements. So look forward to me possibly reading that at some point in the future.)
I also really enjoyed the simple depiction of a happy, healthy relationship between men. And though sometimes certain iffy aspects of the way people seem to tend to stereotypically depict "good" gay couples (must have a top and bottom with an effeminate, caring, and weak submissive partner bottoming and a more masculine, working, strongly dominant partner as the top) seemed to be coming, they actually kinda got flipped or had different/more things going on than just that. Preesh to the author for that.
Now let's talk some of my problems with this book. This definitely could've used some more editing/proofreading [honestly, at this point I've pointed out editing enough that I'm looking into offering up my editing/proofreading on some freelance websites for book writers and others if they want because clearly my brain has oriented itself towards that so much as of late]. Like, someone being a red-eyed from crying, disheveled mess is not a sight for sore eyes. That's not really how that phrase works. There were some other things, but moving on from the writing in such specifics since it wasn't too bad (definitely not the worst I've seen).
The meta references/throwaway jokes in this book were pretty unimpressive and unfortunately obvious. The references to modern things like Deadpool 2, Throne of Glass, and so on hit me as odd. Not necessarily an inherently bad thing, but strangely jarring to have such a mundane thing just thrown in what with the slightly done worldbuilding with a world of magical beings and all that. Which reminds me of another thing: I was pretty meh and ok on a lot of the worldbuilding that was there (though there isn't a whole lot of worldbuilding), but boy did the explanation for soul mates suck. Like, Fate is pulling some bs on humans with that. This also made me realize that I just can't really get behind a romance focused book that has soul mates as the main trope unless done in an interesting/nuanced way. Like, jealousy, miscommunication, any sort of build-up to connection and romance, and so on all seem like utter rubbish when throwing in that they're soul mates--the only ones they'll have true happiness and a lifelong romance with--and the bond or whatever impacts how they feel.
A sense of plot is very much not there most of the time and when it is there it's promptly dealt with before going back to what the majority of the book is like. This book mostly feels like some of the filler you get when a romantic pair get together in a romance story, and there's mostly little bumps they get through together until there's like some bigger conflict or something they confront together at least. However, the conflicts or thing they confront didn't really feel like it happened in the book. Like, they're pretty much together as a thing nearly before the first fourth of the book. And any time there's insecurities, slight miscommunications that would kinda make some sense to blow up into something more (though I'm not usually a fan of that), or anything that could go towards more of a plot related to the relationship it's succinctly dealt with in a relatively short, saccharine monologue from the other person. I enjoyed that their relationship didn't have much conflict or nonsensical things, dont get me wrong, but just mainly having some glimpses of them in a good relationship without much else going on was a bit eh outside of shorter fiction. I need a little something more going on, at least, even something outside the relationship causing problems, but I suppose what the book does works better than if some of the sillier plot threads that popped up had been pulled. It only barely just was ok for how short the book is, but it was also sort of helped with the near out of nowhere introduction of some quick stress and conflict for silly reasons just over 3/4ths of the way through. Like, even the characters point out how silly it is (including with a meta reference that didn't help) a few times, and it's explained away as panic.
I got the sense it was some wish fulfillment/fantasy for the author who may be in a somewhat similar situation, but sometimes the way one of the main character's life and experience with his illness was written/dealt with struck me as a bit off-putting. Like, this is a person who has lived their whole life with a condition, and it was often all pity and suffering from everyone and for the character. And sometimes it came across that *now* he gets to be happy and live a good life and do all the things now that he's being magically healed. I know it's wish fulfillment and it wasn't always so cut and dry off to me like that, but it just struck me poorly a few times.
Like, not to say it to the author specifically but in general, people who are disabled, sick, or dying can still be happy, cared for and loved, and experience so many things--as much as they can handle. It's a monstrous shame if society doesn't allow them to or makes them feel they shouldn't or can't. The dying, the disabled, the ill, all deserve companionship, to be challenged to change, to be cared about, to love and be loved, and to be as happy as they can be no matter their circumstances. No one is entirely obligated to provide it, but everyone deserves to be provided.
I think I'm done. Hope that was all clear. While the book definitely had its problems, it was still an enjoyable read for me and gave me some of what I was looking for in it (though still wish there was a bit more squirrel manipulating things to get them together than just the one time letting the other know they're mates). Hence, the solid 3 for now.
January 6, 2025
I originally reviewed this when it was part of the Mages of Ravenshire series. It looks like the author rebranded it. Here is my original review from April 2022. I'm reposting here as I've started to read the series again and need to keep track of what I've read.
DNF. I got to 30% in on my Kindle and couldn't read another word. Literally nothing happened in the first 3rd of the book. NOTHING. We are introduced to Jai who suffers from an actually not so rare heart condition called VSD that has been successfully surgically treated since the 50's. I mean come on. Really? You couldn't have done just a wee bit more research and chosen something, like almost anything else? As a medical professional it chaps my @ss to see authors make idiotic mistakes like this because they are too lazy to do the research.
We meet Raph who is as bland as white rice. You put whiney Jai together with Bland Raph and it is not an appetizing mix.
I love reading. I love books. I can usually find some redeeming qualities in damn near everything I read. But I couldn't, for the love of all that is holy, finish this book.
DNF. I got to 30% in on my Kindle and couldn't read another word. Literally nothing happened in the first 3rd of the book. NOTHING. We are introduced to Jai who suffers from an actually not so rare heart condition called VSD that has been successfully surgically treated since the 50's. I mean come on. Really? You couldn't have done just a wee bit more research and chosen something, like almost anything else? As a medical professional it chaps my @ss to see authors make idiotic mistakes like this because they are too lazy to do the research.
We meet Raph who is as bland as white rice. You put whiney Jai together with Bland Raph and it is not an appetizing mix.
I love reading. I love books. I can usually find some redeeming qualities in damn near everything I read. But I couldn't, for the love of all that is holy, finish this book.
February 5, 2021
Not for me: Saccharine One True Love full of sappy "my sweet, wonderful man" vignettes intermixed with horrible family members and "no, really, it's OK" abductions because children.
June 7, 2021
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and that they were strong for each other when needed. Neya the squirrel, Raph’s familiar was really cute especially when she would wrap herself around Raph’s neck and pull on his ear, or when she’d sit on Jai’s husky Padfoot’s head. I loved the friendship between Jai and his mystery friend Cassian especially when he found out that Raph, Jai’s mate is missing he left Ravenshire for the first time in years to help him look and be there for Jai. I loved how Jai threatened Raph’s b*tch of a mother when she showed up on their doorstep to bring Raph back to Ravenshire now that she had a use for him since his powers came in. After Raph told her again that he’s not going back and that he’s completely happy living in the human world with Jai. I love the relationship between Jai and his younger brother Joy, they’re best friends and Joy never resented missing out on stuff due to Jai being sick. Since he knows about Jai and Raph being mates and that Raph is healing Jai. I’m hoping that he’ll find his mate, if there are going to be more books, he’s still very young though so will have to age a bit first. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and that they were strong for each other when needed. Neya the squirrel, Raph’s familiar was really cute especially when she would wrap herself around Raph’s neck and pull on his ear, or when she’d sit on Jai’s husky Padfoot’s head. I loved the friendship between Jai and his mystery friend Cassian especially when he found out that Raph, Jai’s mate is missing he left Ravenshire for the first time in years to help him look and be there for Jai. I loved how Jai threatened Raph’s b*tch of a mother when she showed up on their doorstep to bring Raph back to Ravenshire now that she had a use for him since his powers came in. After Raph told her again that he’s not going back and that he’s completely happy living in the human world with Jai. I love the relationship between Jai and his younger brother Joy, they’re best friends and Joy never resented missing out on stuff due to Jai being sick. Since he knows about Jai and Raph being mates and that Raph is healing Jai. I’m hoping that he’ll find his mate, if there are going to be more books, he’s still very young though so will have to age a bit first. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
October 27, 2020
If you want to read a book where nothing really happens and at the same time it has a "sweet factor" of 100%, don't go anywhere, this is the book for you.
The problems are solved practically before they are presented to the reader. For example - one of the characters had a problem using magic, which was completely natural for his whole family. But this problem was solved almost at the first meeting of this character with the reader.
In the middle of the book, I fell asleep boredom.
The problems are solved practically before they are presented to the reader. For example - one of the characters had a problem using magic, which was completely natural for his whole family. But this problem was solved almost at the first meeting of this character with the reader.
In the middle of the book, I fell asleep boredom.
January 2, 2022
Sugary sweet...
This was so sweet my teeth ached but it was what I needed. This story was about a mage who was abused and a young fella who was going to die early finding and healing each other. They are fated mates so it all works out in the end.
This was so sweet my teeth ached but it was what I needed. This story was about a mage who was abused and a young fella who was going to die early finding and healing each other. They are fated mates so it all works out in the end.
June 20, 2022
3.5/5 Stars
Fun fact: I bought his book, through it on my endless TBR and forgot all about it until I learned that the sequel had aces and vampires.
I was told that it is possible to read book 2 without the knowledge of 1, but I was also told, that it's not reccommanded to do so.
So yeah, what did I think about this one? Well, it's a hit or miss, I think.
When I first started, I couldn't - for the life of me - get along with the writing style. It's very telling, very repetetive and very not-me. There are parts of this book where I was kinda liking it and parts where I was just really frustrated overall. I usually don't DNF books, so giving up wasn't an option. Especially since I DID like the characters. So I forced myself through the beginning that seemed like I would never end, until I reached a point - don't ask me when that point was - where I wasn't minding the style as much.
I'm getting book 2, so I guess I didn't hate it as much as I'm claiming, but boy, was this book making it hard for me.
TO BE FAIR, I've forced myself to read, even though my depression was being a very loud bitch in the back of my mind, so there's a chance, that my depression made the experience worse, as in, the style isn't mindblowing, but it's probably way more okay than I'm giving it credit.
I voiced my complaints first, because those were the only things that bothered me, really.
The book is VERY sweet and wholesome.
Yes, there was past emotional-abuse and toxic housholds, that get a mini-subplot and yes, Jai is ill, but that didn't stop the book from making the romance the most healthy, cute thing I've read in a while.
Good Communication? Sexy Consent? AND Believable Romantic Attraction? More likly than you think.
This book features another trope I love (or hate, depends): Soul Mates. You see, I tend to love Soul Mates, but sometimes I hate them. Because Soul-Mates are not excuse for Insta-Lust-Love things to happen. Gimme believable attraction, gimme pining, gimme fluff. Don't gimme: We have to date because.
They do get together fast, but it didn't feel rushed at all. Because they just work.
I saw people complain about the spice level and to you, who it may concern, I have to kindly and politly say: Fuck you.
Don't take this from me! Most of the times I'm forced to read about twitching banana's and pages apon pages of smut that serves no purpose to the story what-so-ever. And it's refreshing to read about to people who's love isn't determined by their capability to have sex or nah.
The book never tried to be a smut-filled-smut-fest to beginn with. The tone is very clear and if this doesn't sound like something you might enjoy: Don't read it. It's that simple.
Someone get's kidnapped at the end and honestly, I LOVE the way this was executed. I'm tired of the "We-have-to-force-drama-into-this-book-in-the-last-few-pages" trope that I've had to read in so many other romance books. Sometimes a book can just be cute and fluffy and amazing. And that's ok.
Do I wish the emotional abuse subplot should have gotten more attention? Yes. But it's fine. The sub-plot has a good enough ending - and there's sequels too - so I'm satisfied.
So yeah, to summ my review up: I reccomand this book to everyone who's into Contemporary Slice of Life Romance.
Fun fact: I bought his book, through it on my endless TBR and forgot all about it until I learned that the sequel had aces and vampires.
I was told that it is possible to read book 2 without the knowledge of 1, but I was also told, that it's not reccommanded to do so.
So yeah, what did I think about this one? Well, it's a hit or miss, I think.
When I first started, I couldn't - for the life of me - get along with the writing style. It's very telling, very repetetive and very not-me. There are parts of this book where I was kinda liking it and parts where I was just really frustrated overall. I usually don't DNF books, so giving up wasn't an option. Especially since I DID like the characters. So I forced myself through the beginning that seemed like I would never end, until I reached a point - don't ask me when that point was - where I wasn't minding the style as much.
I'm getting book 2, so I guess I didn't hate it as much as I'm claiming, but boy, was this book making it hard for me.
TO BE FAIR, I've forced myself to read, even though my depression was being a very loud bitch in the back of my mind, so there's a chance, that my depression made the experience worse, as in, the style isn't mindblowing, but it's probably way more okay than I'm giving it credit.
I voiced my complaints first, because those were the only things that bothered me, really.
The book is VERY sweet and wholesome.
Yes, there was past emotional-abuse and toxic housholds, that get a mini-subplot and yes, Jai is ill, but that didn't stop the book from making the romance the most healthy, cute thing I've read in a while.
Good Communication? Sexy Consent? AND Believable Romantic Attraction? More likly than you think.
This book features another trope I love (or hate, depends): Soul Mates. You see, I tend to love Soul Mates, but sometimes I hate them. Because Soul-Mates are not excuse for Insta-Lust-Love things to happen. Gimme believable attraction, gimme pining, gimme fluff. Don't gimme: We have to date because.
They do get together fast, but it didn't feel rushed at all. Because they just work.
I saw people complain about the spice level and to you, who it may concern, I have to kindly and politly say: Fuck you.
Don't take this from me! Most of the times I'm forced to read about twitching banana's and pages apon pages of smut that serves no purpose to the story what-so-ever. And it's refreshing to read about to people who's love isn't determined by their capability to have sex or nah.
The book never tried to be a smut-filled-smut-fest to beginn with. The tone is very clear and if this doesn't sound like something you might enjoy: Don't read it. It's that simple.
Someone get's kidnapped at the end and honestly, I LOVE the way this was executed. I'm tired of the "We-have-to-force-drama-into-this-book-in-the-last-few-pages" trope that I've had to read in so many other romance books. Sometimes a book can just be cute and fluffy and amazing. And that's ok.
Do I wish the emotional abuse subplot should have gotten more attention? Yes. But it's fine. The sub-plot has a good enough ending - and there's sequels too - so I'm satisfied.
So yeah, to summ my review up: I reccomand this book to everyone who's into Contemporary Slice of Life Romance.
April 12, 2025
This book is unique in that the plot revolves entirely around the romance, with no other subplot, until about 85% through when there is the slightest bit of action unrelated to the relationship between MCs which is quickly and easily resolved.
This is the lowest angst book I’ve ever read, with practically no obstacles- (primarily due to the lack of plot). If you’re looking for a romance that will cause you zero anxiety this is the book for you.
Summary:
Rafael is a 150 year old healing Mage, who feels like a disappointment to his family and worthless compared to other Supernaturals. So, Rafael moves away from (the exclusively supernatural community) of Ravenshire, to live on his own for the first time, in the predominantly human community of “Mistvale”, whose human inhabitants are ignorant even to the existence of magic. Rafael has long since accepted that his magic is weak and useless, only working to heal minor illnesses in animals, rather than to heal people, like how other Mage’s magic works. Rafael promptly befriends a squirrel, who turns out to be his familiar, just before meeting his “mate”.
When Rafael meets Jai he finds his magic reacting to him, and actually helping to ameliorate Jai’s pain and exhaustion. For the first time in Rafael’s immortal life, his magic is actually good for something, and working to help heal another person.
Jai is a human in his early 20s, sickly, due to a congenital heart condition which has damaged his lungs, resulting in chronic fatigue and weakness. When Rafael and Jai meet, their attraction to one another is instantaneous and mutual, and they begin quickly building a relationship. Jai is only human, and initially in the dark about Rafael’s healing mage magic, and the fact that the connection they share is more than mere lust or attraction - but fated and eternal, as they are one another’s “mates”.
Despite their instant attraction and effortless relationship with zero problems or obstacles, it takes them forever to have sex. The lack of barriers needing to be overcome makes the sex less hot than in other romances. Part of why I *strongly* prefer historical gay romance is bc of the secrecy and discrimination, which creates an “us against the world” intimacy between the same sex lovers, which was of course absent in this rosy perfect magical contemporary utopian romance.
Minor annoyances: the book’s cover- I’m assuming is supposed to be Jai, who is half Indian, with dark hair and glasses- (so, not at all like the person portrayed on the cover)-and, the physical description of the characters changes throughout the book- initially Rafael has brown hair and brown eyes, but later in the book, he is described as having green eyes and blonde hair.
This is the lowest angst book I’ve ever read, with practically no obstacles- (primarily due to the lack of plot). If you’re looking for a romance that will cause you zero anxiety this is the book for you.
Summary:
Rafael is a 150 year old healing Mage, who feels like a disappointment to his family and worthless compared to other Supernaturals. So, Rafael moves away from (the exclusively supernatural community) of Ravenshire, to live on his own for the first time, in the predominantly human community of “Mistvale”, whose human inhabitants are ignorant even to the existence of magic. Rafael has long since accepted that his magic is weak and useless, only working to heal minor illnesses in animals, rather than to heal people, like how other Mage’s magic works. Rafael promptly befriends a squirrel, who turns out to be his familiar, just before meeting his “mate”.
When Rafael meets Jai he finds his magic reacting to him, and actually helping to ameliorate Jai’s pain and exhaustion. For the first time in Rafael’s immortal life, his magic is actually good for something, and working to help heal another person.
Jai is a human in his early 20s, sickly, due to a congenital heart condition which has damaged his lungs, resulting in chronic fatigue and weakness. When Rafael and Jai meet, their attraction to one another is instantaneous and mutual, and they begin quickly building a relationship. Jai is only human, and initially in the dark about Rafael’s healing mage magic, and the fact that the connection they share is more than mere lust or attraction - but fated and eternal, as they are one another’s “mates”.
Despite their instant attraction and effortless relationship with zero problems or obstacles, it takes them forever to have sex. The lack of barriers needing to be overcome makes the sex less hot than in other romances. Part of why I *strongly* prefer historical gay romance is bc of the secrecy and discrimination, which creates an “us against the world” intimacy between the same sex lovers, which was of course absent in this rosy perfect magical contemporary utopian romance.
Minor annoyances: the book’s cover- I’m assuming is supposed to be Jai, who is half Indian, with dark hair and glasses- (so, not at all like the person portrayed on the cover)-and, the physical description of the characters changes throughout the book- initially Rafael has brown hair and brown eyes, but later in the book, he is described as having green eyes and blonde hair.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2021
Future days
This was a very sweet low angst story with a delightful hint of magic! There is a little bit of the easy connection of mates, but it also has the human expectation of building a relationship and taking the time to make it work which gives it a beautiful little story.
Jai has spent his entire life dying. He was born with a rare heart condition that will one day kill him, and that day seems to be getting closer. Our on a walk I e day he collapses and meets Raphael. Raph is a witch who has no usable magic and has as such left the island where witches live. Surprisingly when Raph touches Jai he realizes he could heal the man, which brings up questions of what his magic truly is and what life he could have. It has the potential to change both of their lives forever and just what their lives will be.
Both Raph and Jai have lived in a way of not truly having a future. For Jai it has always been that he would at some point die, so he shied away from making any intimate connections for the pain the loss would bring on both sides. For Raph, his lack of magic meant that he could never have the life he should have at his home, and years of having that ground into him made him believe he could never have any kind of happy life. As the two men slowly get to know one another as friends it helps to heal some of these wounds. They each get to see how much more their lives can be together, and even the way that they can be individually with the changes. It makes for a sweet and beautiful revelation as they both start to see a future that was never imagined and a place for themselves.
There is an intriguing introduction to a further magical world in this story. There are many other mages and magical creatures with story to tell. And just as Raph was left as an outcast of his world, there are other magical brings who have been cast out of ignored for reasons outside of their control. It will be interesting to read the stories of these other beings as the series continues!
This was a very sweet low angst story with a delightful hint of magic! There is a little bit of the easy connection of mates, but it also has the human expectation of building a relationship and taking the time to make it work which gives it a beautiful little story.
Jai has spent his entire life dying. He was born with a rare heart condition that will one day kill him, and that day seems to be getting closer. Our on a walk I e day he collapses and meets Raphael. Raph is a witch who has no usable magic and has as such left the island where witches live. Surprisingly when Raph touches Jai he realizes he could heal the man, which brings up questions of what his magic truly is and what life he could have. It has the potential to change both of their lives forever and just what their lives will be.
Both Raph and Jai have lived in a way of not truly having a future. For Jai it has always been that he would at some point die, so he shied away from making any intimate connections for the pain the loss would bring on both sides. For Raph, his lack of magic meant that he could never have the life he should have at his home, and years of having that ground into him made him believe he could never have any kind of happy life. As the two men slowly get to know one another as friends it helps to heal some of these wounds. They each get to see how much more their lives can be together, and even the way that they can be individually with the changes. It makes for a sweet and beautiful revelation as they both start to see a future that was never imagined and a place for themselves.
There is an intriguing introduction to a further magical world in this story. There are many other mages and magical creatures with story to tell. And just as Raph was left as an outcast of his world, there are other magical brings who have been cast out of ignored for reasons outside of their control. It will be interesting to read the stories of these other beings as the series continues!
October 2, 2020
Jai lives with a debilitating disease that makes it difficult for him to function on his best days. He lives with his canine best friend, Padfoot, and has one friend, Cassian, he interacts with online. His family is a bit protective of him, but he maintains his independence by working from home. He knows that eventually his disease will kill him, but he intends to do the best he can until then.
Raphael is a Mage who has just moved in down the block from Jai. He has moved from the Mage community of Ravenshire because he is tired of his parent’s comments and disapproving faces over the lack of Raphael’s magic. Raph has only ever been a disappointment to his parents, and he needs to find a life away from the negativity. He befriends an injured squirrel and finds that he can heal animals. It may not be as great a power as his parents’ healing abilities, but it is something he can be proud of.
Raphael has noticed Jai in the neighborhood, and he wants to get to know him. He has his opportunity when Jai collapses one day during his walk with Padfoot.
Jai feels better when he is with Raphael. His symptoms appear to decrease when they are together. Raphael is nervous about telling Jai about being a mage and whether he will believe him or not.
Jai is nervous about losing their friendship when his disease gets to be too much for Raphael to handle.
This story is super fluffy sweet with two main characters that are lonely and in need of love and acceptance. Their side-kick animal friends are a fun addition. The story is entertaining with love, vulnerability, and steamy moments.
Raphael is a Mage who has just moved in down the block from Jai. He has moved from the Mage community of Ravenshire because he is tired of his parent’s comments and disapproving faces over the lack of Raphael’s magic. Raph has only ever been a disappointment to his parents, and he needs to find a life away from the negativity. He befriends an injured squirrel and finds that he can heal animals. It may not be as great a power as his parents’ healing abilities, but it is something he can be proud of.
Raphael has noticed Jai in the neighborhood, and he wants to get to know him. He has his opportunity when Jai collapses one day during his walk with Padfoot.
Jai feels better when he is with Raphael. His symptoms appear to decrease when they are together. Raphael is nervous about telling Jai about being a mage and whether he will believe him or not.
Jai is nervous about losing their friendship when his disease gets to be too much for Raphael to handle.
This story is super fluffy sweet with two main characters that are lonely and in need of love and acceptance. Their side-kick animal friends are a fun addition. The story is entertaining with love, vulnerability, and steamy moments.
November 24, 2023
In 70% of the books I want to read, I go to the comments to see what people have already read. Know what to expect. Although this doesn't always influence whether I read the book or not. That said, I confess that I was surprised. Many of the comments I saw about this book were that it was too sweet, too saccharine, slow, and boring.
I started reading without many expectations. I loved the book. Yes, it's sweet, but not that much. It is a novel that respects the development of the characters' relationships, giving details of this development, within the time available for this, without making the book excessively long. Some call it a slow burn, but I didn't think it was. Only if this definition was only for the sex part, which was what took the longest in this book.
This is a gentle romance. Yes, we had the issue of Jai's illness and the neglect and lack of love from Raphael's narcissistic parents, but most of all it was that little love, which leaves your heart warm with the desire for more.
The only negative point for me here was the epilogue. I like epilogues that portray a moment in the story later, at least a week in advance. Showing a little piece of the characters' future. And even though we know that they will probably appear in the next books in the series, it didn't make any difference, since this is their book and this is where it should show a taste of their future. So, I loved the whole book and didn't like the epilogue.
MM - Low Distress - Paranormal - Fated Companions - Bond Animals - No MPreg - Low Sex - Sweet - No Shifter (In this book) - No Action - Low Drama - Terminal Illness - Narcissistic
I started reading without many expectations. I loved the book. Yes, it's sweet, but not that much. It is a novel that respects the development of the characters' relationships, giving details of this development, within the time available for this, without making the book excessively long. Some call it a slow burn, but I didn't think it was. Only if this definition was only for the sex part, which was what took the longest in this book.
This is a gentle romance. Yes, we had the issue of Jai's illness and the neglect and lack of love from Raphael's narcissistic parents, but most of all it was that little love, which leaves your heart warm with the desire for more.
The only negative point for me here was the epilogue. I like epilogues that portray a moment in the story later, at least a week in advance. Showing a little piece of the characters' future. And even though we know that they will probably appear in the next books in the series, it didn't make any difference, since this is their book and this is where it should show a taste of their future. So, I loved the whole book and didn't like the epilogue.
MM - Low Distress - Paranormal - Fated Companions - Bond Animals - No MPreg - Low Sex - Sweet - No Shifter (In this book) - No Action - Low Drama - Terminal Illness - Narcissistic
October 3, 2020
This book was sweet,romantic magic!
Ralph's past is clouded by his 150 years of verbal abuse by his family and other mages living in Ravenshire. Finally leaving, after he realizes that his best is never enough, he moves to Mistvale to start his own life; where his lack of magic will not be thrown at him as a taunt. Never would he have thought that he would find is Semlee & Semnyar in Mistvale and merely a couple houses down.
Jai's path in life has been rocky ever since he was born. Not expected to live past 6 months, he knows that everyday could be his last. Diagnosed with a heart defect at birth, he hasn't truly been able to live a day without pain or tiredness. Finally deciding that he is going to gain some independence by living on his own, he moves into his own house with his beautiful, loyal husky Padfoot. The day when he decides to change his routine and go take Padfoot for his walk early leads him to meet the new neighbor down the street. Could Ralph be the friend that won't leave Jai, even with his health condition?
This is a wonderful journey of perfect matches for both people and animals. It displays the bonds that people have with animals, the strength at finding great friends, and the other part of your soul can have when you don't think you're enough. I also lets you know that even though you maybe given a family at birth, if they don't value you, you can go out and find one that does; because everyone is worth something, we all just need a little help seeing that from time to time.
Ralph's past is clouded by his 150 years of verbal abuse by his family and other mages living in Ravenshire. Finally leaving, after he realizes that his best is never enough, he moves to Mistvale to start his own life; where his lack of magic will not be thrown at him as a taunt. Never would he have thought that he would find is Semlee & Semnyar in Mistvale and merely a couple houses down.
Jai's path in life has been rocky ever since he was born. Not expected to live past 6 months, he knows that everyday could be his last. Diagnosed with a heart defect at birth, he hasn't truly been able to live a day without pain or tiredness. Finally deciding that he is going to gain some independence by living on his own, he moves into his own house with his beautiful, loyal husky Padfoot. The day when he decides to change his routine and go take Padfoot for his walk early leads him to meet the new neighbor down the street. Could Ralph be the friend that won't leave Jai, even with his health condition?
This is a wonderful journey of perfect matches for both people and animals. It displays the bonds that people have with animals, the strength at finding great friends, and the other part of your soul can have when you don't think you're enough. I also lets you know that even though you maybe given a family at birth, if they don't value you, you can go out and find one that does; because everyone is worth something, we all just need a little help seeing that from time to time.
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