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Bonds of Magic #1
Dark Wizard
Lord Gabriel Phel wants one thing: to restore his shattered House to its former station in the Convocation’s complex and arcane society. Fortunately, through a wild chance of birth, he was born with the magic of a powerful wizard, the first in his family in generations. If he can obtain a familiar to supplement his skills, ideally one who is a highborn daughter who can also be his lady wife, then he’ll be that much closer to restoring House Phel. And to exacting his ultimate revenge on the Convocation that destroyed his family.
Lady Veronica Elal doesn’t have many choices. To her bitter disappointment, she will never be the powerful wizard she and her father hoped she’d be. Instead Nic is doomed to be a familiar like her mother, a second-class citizen in the Convocation, and one destined to be bonded to a wizard, serving his purposes for the rest of her life. Her one hope lies in entering the Betrothal Trials—and choosing a wizard from the Convocation candidates that she can manipulate. Whichever one of her suitors impregnates her will claim her as familiar and wife, and she can use her wiles to rule her wizard master, and the House she marries into.
But Gabriel throws a wrench into Nic’s careful scheming, by seducing and fascinating her. When she finds she’s pregnant by the rogue wizard she can never hope to control, Nic does the unthinkable: she runs.
Lady Veronica Elal doesn’t have many choices. To her bitter disappointment, she will never be the powerful wizard she and her father hoped she’d be. Instead Nic is doomed to be a familiar like her mother, a second-class citizen in the Convocation, and one destined to be bonded to a wizard, serving his purposes for the rest of her life. Her one hope lies in entering the Betrothal Trials—and choosing a wizard from the Convocation candidates that she can manipulate. Whichever one of her suitors impregnates her will claim her as familiar and wife, and she can use her wiles to rule her wizard master, and the House she marries into.
But Gabriel throws a wrench into Nic’s careful scheming, by seducing and fascinating her. When she finds she’s pregnant by the rogue wizard she can never hope to control, Nic does the unthinkable: she runs.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2021
About the author
Jeffe Kennedy
101 books1,345 followers💙She/her💙 Award-winning Bestselling Author of epic fantasy romance. Taoist. Swiftie. Santa Fean. Cat lady @sfwa_inc Past-President. Rep by @seyitsme
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
February 25, 2021
Oh my I need to do this justice so will start by saying I honestly didn't expect to like this story very much. Why ? Well the idea of someone having sex with a different stranger once a month was for me simply awful. I couldn't get out of my mind that Veronica was being used as a brood mare and in fact her feelings and comments about her previous experiences were very distasteful. So with that uncomfortable background in play Gabriel really had to step up to the mark to impress me. Actually the author accomplished making him a very decent human being trying to be noble amidst very difficult circumstances and Veronica whilst perhaps not bowled over by him certainly could eventually understand that his intentions were pure.
Veronica is a very complicated character and I came to like her although initially she did feel very abrasive. She's been brought up to be proud of who she is, to revel in her abilities and there certainly is a haughty edge to her. Yet she's found herself in an interminable position and has cunningly devised a plan that gets completely derailed. She is forced to take chances, rushing from what she perceives as misery and virtual slavery to a freedom denied to so many. This ends with the couple reaching an understanding of sorts but their journey is far from over !
My final thoughts are that this almost too perfect hero full of integrity and almost revolutionary ideas will certainly be tested in the next book. Veronica has a steely edge that readers will enjoy in a heroine. I look forward to discovering more about this twisted, magical world they live in and the next book cannot come quickly enough.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Veronica is a very complicated character and I came to like her although initially she did feel very abrasive. She's been brought up to be proud of who she is, to revel in her abilities and there certainly is a haughty edge to her. Yet she's found herself in an interminable position and has cunningly devised a plan that gets completely derailed. She is forced to take chances, rushing from what she perceives as misery and virtual slavery to a freedom denied to so many. This ends with the couple reaching an understanding of sorts but their journey is far from over !
My final thoughts are that this almost too perfect hero full of integrity and almost revolutionary ideas will certainly be tested in the next book. Veronica has a steely edge that readers will enjoy in a heroine. I look forward to discovering more about this twisted, magical world they live in and the next book cannot come quickly enough.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
September 13, 2021
I was going to give this 1 star because I was close to DNF status several times but I pursued it until the end. The second star was because I was interested in the magic system and the premise that maybe some ‘good wizard/familiar’ pairs could find a way to change the oppressive system they lived in.
Most of this book was taken up with being on the run and dealing with the Veronica’s whiny, childish and bitchy attitude. I don’t think I can face any more of that so will leave the series here.
Most of this book was taken up with being on the run and dealing with the Veronica’s whiny, childish and bitchy attitude. I don’t think I can face any more of that so will leave the series here.
January 20, 2022
This was such a great read! I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a fantasy romance with:
- A hot, strong, modern-minded hero
- A witty and resilient heroine
- Great banter
- A cool new magic system
- Awesome worldbuilding
- More books in the series to dive into
I bought book 2 immediately after finishing Dark Wizard. I can't wait to continue this series!
- A hot, strong, modern-minded hero
- A witty and resilient heroine
- Great banter
- A cool new magic system
- Awesome worldbuilding
- More books in the series to dive into
I bought book 2 immediately after finishing Dark Wizard. I can't wait to continue this series!
February 25, 2021
I will not, in fact, get any work done today. Because of Jeffe Kennedy
, that's why. I was up until 3 a.m. reading her new book, which is magnificent. And now it's noon, and my head is still in the story. DARK WIZARD is pitch perfect. The best two main characters I've read in a long time. The world is finely drawn and lustrous, the hero and heroine so real, they walk off the page. DARK WIZARD will be on my keeper shelf for freaking ever. I can't wait until book 2 comes out, because I'm desperate for the rest of the story, but also, because I'll get to reread book 1 in preparation. (If I don't reread it sooner, which I probably will.) If you like fantasy romance, clear your day.
, that's why. I was up until 3 a.m. reading her new book, which is magnificent. And now it's noon, and my head is still in the story. DARK WIZARD is pitch perfect. The best two main characters I've read in a long time. The world is finely drawn and lustrous, the hero and heroine so real, they walk off the page. DARK WIZARD will be on my keeper shelf for freaking ever. I can't wait until book 2 comes out, because I'm desperate for the rest of the story, but also, because I'll get to reread book 1 in preparation. (If I don't reread it sooner, which I probably will.) If you like fantasy romance, clear your day.
March 9, 2021
I've fallen so crazy in love with one of the best Fantasy/Romance books in 2021. If you haven't tried Jeffe Kennedy 's books, please give her a chance. Highly recommended this book as one of the best Book#1 of a new series EVER.
The author has presented us with another totally enticing Fantasy/Romance as well as a super creative/original world building. I never read anything like this before‼️ The HEA couple, Lord Gabriel Phel and Lady Veronica Elal, were captivating and amazing together. Yes, they both had flaws, completed with their own imperfection, but, OMG❣️they would pull you into their lives and struggle right away. They were both so irresistible and beyond words mesmerizing. I was awestruck by their path to become bonded.
Gabriel was a different kind of Wizard altogether. He wasn't cruel or an egomaniac, like all the other dark wizards in that world. On the contrary, he was so likable, lovable, to the point that he could hook you, even when you recognized his shortcomings ~ like ~ being poor, not trained in magic ~ what he knew he learned from books~ and self taught. In the word filled with cutthroat wizards, he had no clues how to use his magic! That was pretty understandable, though, seeing that his magic was moonlight and water! How could a wizard fight or produce something to build a lucrative empire with such magic? That was when he won you over! Once he listened to Lady Veronica yelling at him ➡️ "USE YOUR MAGIC!" during one of their fights against enemies, he began learning to do just that❣️The most amazing feats started happening❣️
Lady Veronica was also a different kind of heroine. She was from one of the richest, most powerful Houses. Her magic was always strong and powerful. She was so well educated and so well trained in magic. But she wasn't meant to become a wizard as expected. She failed the deciding test, and heartbreakingly only qualified as a wizard's Familiar instead.
I'm dying to read the next book! Already preordered Bright Familiar 💞 Release date July 9, 2021💝 Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
The author has presented us with another totally enticing Fantasy/Romance as well as a super creative/original world building. I never read anything like this before‼️ The HEA couple, Lord Gabriel Phel and Lady Veronica Elal, were captivating and amazing together. Yes, they both had flaws, completed with their own imperfection, but, OMG❣️they would pull you into their lives and struggle right away. They were both so irresistible and beyond words mesmerizing. I was awestruck by their path to become bonded.
Gabriel was a different kind of Wizard altogether. He wasn't cruel or an egomaniac, like all the other dark wizards in that world. On the contrary, he was so likable, lovable, to the point that he could hook you, even when you recognized his shortcomings ~ like ~ being poor, not trained in magic ~ what he knew he learned from books~ and self taught. In the word filled with cutthroat wizards, he had no clues how to use his magic! That was pretty understandable, though, seeing that his magic was moonlight and water! How could a wizard fight or produce something to build a lucrative empire with such magic? That was when he won you over! Once he listened to Lady Veronica yelling at him ➡️ "USE YOUR MAGIC!" during one of their fights against enemies, he began learning to do just that❣️The most amazing feats started happening❣️
Lady Veronica was also a different kind of heroine. She was from one of the richest, most powerful Houses. Her magic was always strong and powerful. She was so well educated and so well trained in magic. But she wasn't meant to become a wizard as expected. She failed the deciding test, and heartbreakingly only qualified as a wizard's Familiar instead.
I'm dying to read the next book! Already preordered Bright Familiar 💞 Release date July 9, 2021💝 Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
"You made your bed, wizard. Now you must lie in it."
"So long as I'm not chained to it," he said with a half smile . . .
"Not unless we're enjoying chained to it," she corrected . . . "Oh, Gabriel," she sighed with needy pleasure. . .
"I'd rather lie on you," he murmured with a wicked smile . . .
It felt like yesterday and forever since he'd been inside her. So long since he'd marked her with his magic, so indelibly that it had settled into her bones and blood, forever calling her back to him.
And him to her.
Her hips lifted as she welcomed him in, bringing him home, wrapping him in her magic as his flowed into and out of her, surging with a silvery tide that eroded all her doubts and fears.
This was right.
This was meant.
Back and forth.
Water and fire.
Silver and crimson.
Wizard and familiar.
June 16, 2021
Interesting premise. I wish there had been more world-building and/or explanation for this world. A richer backstory for the hero would have been a bonus too. Perhaps an explanation will be forthcoming about House Phel's situation and the politics.
The push and pull between the hero and heroine occupied much on the plot. The heroine fought not to lose herself to the unbalanced (and somewhat symbiotic) relationship between a wizard and familiar. It went on too long when I would have liked to learn how the magic worked and its capabilities. I'm curious enough to read the continuation to this couple and their world.
The push and pull between the hero and heroine occupied much on the plot. The heroine fought not to lose herself to the unbalanced (and somewhat symbiotic) relationship between a wizard and familiar. It went on too long when I would have liked to learn how the magic worked and its capabilities. I'm curious enough to read the continuation to this couple and their world.
March 26, 2021
Dark Wizard is my first book from Jeffe Kennedy and not my last. This book was incredible and horrible all in one. Chapter 2 was heartbreaking and hard to read at times. The story is engaging, but the circumstances you are following are so incredibly wrong. I love the Gabriel and Nic so much. I can't wait until the next book to continue their story.
November 21, 2021
I am really torn about this book. On one hand, the hero emphasizes the importance of consent. Over and over again. However, the world building is problematic. The heroine perceives she has no ability to choose differently because of innate natural/magical forces. The only way she can be empowered is by him providing that power. That feels like an icky world. But it does beg the question... is our world like that for some people? Maybe. And that’s something the author is really making me question. Does everyone have the ability to consent? Or are there cases where the only way towards true consent is to have people in power be humble and kind enough to give up their power to allow for true consent to be there.
I, at first, wanted to dock this book a star because of the frustration and sorrow I feel about this power and consent thing. However, I’m realizing it’s bringing up some deep thoughts.
The hero is amazing. Love him. The heroine is wonderful... but frustrating. But I also can’t hold it against her as she’s in a terrible world.
I want them to be true partners. And perhaps that will happen... in the sequel.
I, at first, wanted to dock this book a star because of the frustration and sorrow I feel about this power and consent thing. However, I’m realizing it’s bringing up some deep thoughts.
The hero is amazing. Love him. The heroine is wonderful... but frustrating. But I also can’t hold it against her as she’s in a terrible world.
I want them to be true partners. And perhaps that will happen... in the sequel.
January 30, 2025
Great world building with wizards, their familiars and deeply embedded abuse. The powerful H is a late blooming wizard, the h is his familiar who had expectations of being a powerful wizard. So she runs and he chases. Fantastic story telling.
March 1, 2021
This world was rather messed up. It seems that if you have magic you have a 50% chance to either live a great life, or be a slave. I do not like those odds.
And then if you are lucky to be a mage then you need a familiar, and most treat these are crap. Which is horrible, cos that might have been you. And that is probably your mother, back there being treated as crap by your mage dad. That is your sister or brother, so yes harsh world when it comes to magic.
Veronica, ok, so I was not the biggest fan if I am going to be honest. She was meant to be a great wizard, but then it turns out she is to be well a slave instead. She was meant to be the Leader of her house and now she is to be take part in this horrid custom where wizards come to test her out for a night. But what I did not like about her is that she did not really think about others. She runs away, hello, think about your mother! Your family! They will obvi find you and omg Gabriel was the nicest guy ever. Stupid woman.
Gabriel was so nice. He was not brought up on this wizard and slave business. He is nice to her, he does not do things like the ones before her. Sure he needs his familliar, but not to be treated as a slave.
I hope they become really powerful together and bring down this system, cos this system sucks. Show the world a new world where working together actually means working together.
So yes I wonder what will happen. I liked it (even Veronica was stupid for running away ;)
And then if you are lucky to be a mage then you need a familiar, and most treat these are crap. Which is horrible, cos that might have been you. And that is probably your mother, back there being treated as crap by your mage dad. That is your sister or brother, so yes harsh world when it comes to magic.
Veronica, ok, so I was not the biggest fan if I am going to be honest. She was meant to be a great wizard, but then it turns out she is to be well a slave instead. She was meant to be the Leader of her house and now she is to be take part in this horrid custom where wizards come to test her out for a night. But what I did not like about her is that she did not really think about others. She runs away, hello, think about your mother! Your family! They will obvi find you and omg Gabriel was the nicest guy ever. Stupid woman.
Gabriel was so nice. He was not brought up on this wizard and slave business. He is nice to her, he does not do things like the ones before her. Sure he needs his familliar, but not to be treated as a slave.
I hope they become really powerful together and bring down this system, cos this system sucks. Show the world a new world where working together actually means working together.
So yes I wonder what will happen. I liked it (even Veronica was stupid for running away ;)
November 30, 2021
I devoured this book! The writing is gorgeous. I sunk right into the textured world. The magic system felt comfortably familiar and fresh all at the same time. The characters stole my heart most of all. Nic and Gabriel feel like real people. They change and worry and hurt and have fears and ambitions (and they urinate like real people LOL. I didn't realize how much I appreciate authors not glossing over daily bodily functions until I read Dark Wizard). Nic and Gabriel grow and have strengths and weaknesses. They make each other better throughout the book. Gabriel begins to soften Nic as their trust grows. Nic adds to Gabriel's wisdom about the world and his own magic. I had fun cheering for them to grow closer, to give in to each other, and there was plenty of action to keep me turning the pages (not that I even need much action, personally. I'm all about the romance, but if you need action, there's plenty of that).
Nic and Gabriel are fun to ship. The pull of their growing magical bond triggered great tension, excellent dialogue, and fun banter (I love great banter). Nic wants her independence. As a familiar, she doesn't want to lose who she is being used as a type of magic source at the beck and call of a wizard. She wants to pursue her own ambitions and maintain her own autonomy. Gabriel's pull, and her fascination with him, threatens this independence. Nic's fear of being controlled and losing her will causes her to treat Gabriel with distrust. Past mistreatment during the Betrothal Trials further encourages her to put up walls to keep him at a distance. Gabriel responds to her walls with great tenderness, slowly smoothing out her prickly edges. Those tender moments made some of my favorite parts of the book. I was excited to see that Nic maintains her steel overall. I love feisty heroines!
It's a great read. I'm excited to dive into book 2.
Nic and Gabriel are fun to ship. The pull of their growing magical bond triggered great tension, excellent dialogue, and fun banter (I love great banter). Nic wants her independence. As a familiar, she doesn't want to lose who she is being used as a type of magic source at the beck and call of a wizard. She wants to pursue her own ambitions and maintain her own autonomy. Gabriel's pull, and her fascination with him, threatens this independence. Nic's fear of being controlled and losing her will causes her to treat Gabriel with distrust. Past mistreatment during the Betrothal Trials further encourages her to put up walls to keep him at a distance. Gabriel responds to her walls with great tenderness, slowly smoothing out her prickly edges. Those tender moments made some of my favorite parts of the book. I was excited to see that Nic maintains her steel overall. I love feisty heroines!
It's a great read. I'm excited to dive into book 2.
July 19, 2024
This one was not as good as I had hoped it would be. See, the impregnation part of the description sounded totally weird, but the rest of it sounded promising, so I gave it a go.
The first thing I have to say is that the magical system of the Convocation and its way of treating familiars made me so angry. It was sickening to watch Veronica's parents' interactions who were also wizard and familiar.
Of course I couldn't blame her for her reluctance to succumb to that system but her reasoning for running away was stupid.
From the little she let Gabriel say in their Trial night, she knew he thought differently about his future bond to his familiar, why run then? She wanted a regular wizard who would treat her like a pet just so she could manipulate him, and rejected Gabriel's ideas even though he wanted her as a partner to make decisions with him and would not treat her like a pet. So why run?
It was stupid of her to hope for a weak wizard who can be manipulated to begin with as the chance for that happening was minimal.
Plus, it doesn't make sense that she would've planned that wizard's death to be free but said the Convocation would have never let her potential go to waste even had she not entered the Betrothal Trials, since they still would have chosen a wizard whose children she would bear. That means they probably would've done the same had she killed her husband. So why run?
Even later, after Gabriel found her, she kept getting frustrated about him not wanting to understand or accept the Convocation rules. Meanwhile I kept getting frustrated about her not understanding that he doesn't have to accept them. He can't change the whole convocation, but they can still make a partnership out of their situation.
Instead, she preferred him to be nonchalant and cruel like the other wizards so she could comfortably hate him even though his kindness was better for her.
She became annoying really quickly, fighting him for far too long even though it had become pointless already.
I liked Gabriel though, it was refreshing to have him being an outsider who's unfamiliar with the Convocation laws and appalled with them, unlike her with her double standards. She certainly never thought about the powerlessness of familiars when she still expected to be a wizard herself.
But I was honestly dumbfounded when he mentioned having a family and wanting her to meet them very late into the book, because he had never mentioned them before and had given off the impression of some loner. However, I liked the idea of his big family around them even though we only saw them briefly so far.
Overall, I was not impressed, least of all with the so called romance which was really just mutual attraction and that magical Fascination she felt for him.
However, the last portion of the book got me thinking that there really is no point to their unusual dynamic amidst the terrible Convocation laws if they won't revolutionize said laws in the next books. And it should be interesting to see them rebuild House Phel with all the knowledge Veronica can contribute now.
I'm also curious enough about their further relationship and how they will deal with the convocation and her family, so I will read the next book. It better be worth it though.
Edit: It's been one and a half years, and I still haven't felt the urge to read the sequel. Nor do I see that changing, so I'm officially done with this series now. I'm just not invested in this couple and really couldn't care less about them, ergo I won't be wasting my precious time with them.
The first thing I have to say is that the magical system of the Convocation and its way of treating familiars made me so angry. It was sickening to watch Veronica's parents' interactions who were also wizard and familiar.
Of course I couldn't blame her for her reluctance to succumb to that system but her reasoning for running away was stupid.
From the little she let Gabriel say in their Trial night, she knew he thought differently about his future bond to his familiar, why run then? She wanted a regular wizard who would treat her like a pet just so she could manipulate him, and rejected Gabriel's ideas even though he wanted her as a partner to make decisions with him and would not treat her like a pet. So why run?
It was stupid of her to hope for a weak wizard who can be manipulated to begin with as the chance for that happening was minimal.
Plus, it doesn't make sense that she would've planned that wizard's death to be free but said the Convocation would have never let her potential go to waste even had she not entered the Betrothal Trials, since they still would have chosen a wizard whose children she would bear. That means they probably would've done the same had she killed her husband. So why run?
Even later, after Gabriel found her, she kept getting frustrated about him not wanting to understand or accept the Convocation rules. Meanwhile I kept getting frustrated about her not understanding that he doesn't have to accept them. He can't change the whole convocation, but they can still make a partnership out of their situation.
Instead, she preferred him to be nonchalant and cruel like the other wizards so she could comfortably hate him even though his kindness was better for her.
She became annoying really quickly, fighting him for far too long even though it had become pointless already.
I liked Gabriel though, it was refreshing to have him being an outsider who's unfamiliar with the Convocation laws and appalled with them, unlike her with her double standards. She certainly never thought about the powerlessness of familiars when she still expected to be a wizard herself.
But I was honestly dumbfounded when he mentioned having a family and wanting her to meet them very late into the book, because he had never mentioned them before and had given off the impression of some loner. However, I liked the idea of his big family around them even though we only saw them briefly so far.
Overall, I was not impressed, least of all with the so called romance which was really just mutual attraction and that magical Fascination she felt for him.
However, the last portion of the book got me thinking that there really is no point to their unusual dynamic amidst the terrible Convocation laws if they won't revolutionize said laws in the next books. And it should be interesting to see them rebuild House Phel with all the knowledge Veronica can contribute now.
I'm also curious enough about their further relationship and how they will deal with the convocation and her family, so I will read the next book. It better be worth it though.
Edit: It's been one and a half years, and I still haven't felt the urge to read the sequel. Nor do I see that changing, so I'm officially done with this series now. I'm just not invested in this couple and really couldn't care less about them, ergo I won't be wasting my precious time with them.
March 14, 2022
There are a lot of standard tropes in the Fantasy genre so I always love to see how an author can put their own unique spin on things. In this case, we have your standard “wizard” story with basic elements as the master wizards needing to tap their “familiar” for magical fuel. The wrinkle, however, is brilliant: Commerce by Magic. The entire economy is predicated on the magical items and services that a particular House provides. And it’s very cut-throat, with each house having a specialty that they have an exclusive patent or trademark, and it is not okay to dabble in another house’s specialty.
There is also an underlining social justice issue taking place with wizards having so much more status than familiars. Plus, a ruling entity called the Convocation basically encouraging and sanctioning wizards to abuse their familiars. Thus, the primary crux of the conflict in the book and series.
Our main protagonist thought she was going to be a powerful wizard, at the very top of the pecking order, allowing her to take over as head of her powerful house. Instead, she’s classified as a familiar, throwing her to the very bottom of the pecking order, with the anticipation of being subjugated by whatever wizard she’s shacked to by bonding. However, our spunky Lady ‘Nic’ Veronica isn’t having it.
Unfortunately, Nic’s plan to make the best of her lot in life is thrown out the window when she is bonded by impregnation to a wizard who is wholly unmanipulable. So, Nic chooses Plan C. Run away.
There is also an underlining social justice issue taking place with wizards having so much more status than familiars. Plus, a ruling entity called the Convocation basically encouraging and sanctioning wizards to abuse their familiars. Thus, the primary crux of the conflict in the book and series.
Our main protagonist thought she was going to be a powerful wizard, at the very top of the pecking order, allowing her to take over as head of her powerful house. Instead, she’s classified as a familiar, throwing her to the very bottom of the pecking order, with the anticipation of being subjugated by whatever wizard she’s shacked to by bonding. However, our spunky Lady ‘Nic’ Veronica isn’t having it.
Unfortunately, Nic’s plan to make the best of her lot in life is thrown out the window when she is bonded by impregnation to a wizard who is wholly unmanipulable. So, Nic chooses Plan C. Run away.
October 11, 2023
Not my favourite. The female lead in this book really bothered me. She made a silly decision and spent the whole book whining. Did she have a valid reason to whine? YES, absolutely she did!! Did that make it any less annoying? No, not really :/
October 10, 2023
3,25-5⭐
An interesting premise that wasn't necessarily exploited in the way I thought it would be.
There are some pretty dark themes, although I'm not sure I'd classify it as dark fantasy.
The hero is a powerful wizard, while the heroine is a familiar who is condemned to be married to a wizard and to "submit" to him.
Despite this imbalance, which is a normal part of the relationship between these two castes, the hero is determined to form a partnership with the heroine, he's also a kind and gentle character for whom the heroine's consent is super important.
I was expecting more of an anti-hero, but I liked this character (although he's perhaps a little too perfect).
The heroine is extremely abrasive, which makes her harder to like, but this becomes less apparent as the book progresses.
I'm curious enough about the development of their relationship and how they intend to change the fate and injustice suffered by the "familiars" in their world to read the next volumes, so I consider that I enjoyed my reading, even if it wasn't exceptional.
Safety/ Spoilers
- No sharing or cheating
- No Virgin.
- No OM/OW drama.
TW
- One of the major theme of the book is coerced relationship/breeding due to the imbalance between wizard and familiar.
An interesting premise that wasn't necessarily exploited in the way I thought it would be.
There are some pretty dark themes, although I'm not sure I'd classify it as dark fantasy.
The hero is a powerful wizard, while the heroine is a familiar who is condemned to be married to a wizard and to "submit" to him.
Despite this imbalance, which is a normal part of the relationship between these two castes, the hero is determined to form a partnership with the heroine, he's also a kind and gentle character for whom the heroine's consent is super important.
I was expecting more of an anti-hero, but I liked this character (although he's perhaps a little too perfect).
The heroine is extremely abrasive, which makes her harder to like, but this becomes less apparent as the book progresses.
I'm curious enough about the development of their relationship and how they intend to change the fate and injustice suffered by the "familiars" in their world to read the next volumes, so I consider that I enjoyed my reading, even if it wasn't exceptional.
Safety/ Spoilers
- No sharing or cheating
- No Virgin.
- No OM/OW drama.
TW
- One of the major theme of the book is coerced relationship/breeding due to the imbalance between wizard and familiar.
December 24, 2022
The moon calls and the tides answer.
Veronica was raised to believe she was the very epithet of power. Her house is top tier, her power is almost unparalleled, and her father painstakingly prepared her to take his place as ruler over everyone and everything within their little realm. Until she comes of age and they discover her magic isn't hers to command. She's a familiar, to be owned and used as an object by the highest bidder. Once won through ritual and rite, her life and will would cease to be her own and she would be wielded as nothing more than a thing to be utilized.
Gaslit and groomed, Nic thinks she's ready to face her fate, and even devised a plan to make her future more palatable. Nothing can stop someone of her wit, her determination, her resources... except perhaps, Lord Phel.
Gabriel wants to rebuild his house to its forgotten glory, but without a formal education, and nothing but a dilapidated swamp dwelling to back him, his chances are slim. What he needs is to secure a marriage bond with Veronica-- he thinks-- at least, that's the advice he was given. He didn't plan on wanting her, on falling for her, on hoping she would fall for him too.
Unlike any of his ilk, Gabriel struggles to navigate the world of darkness and deception he unwittingly stepped into. Despite his strength, talent and natural ability, his kind heart and naieve ideals make him vulnerable in a world he hates to be a part of.
Veronica could be his savior, or his undoing.
Gabriel could command her every move, or become her means to true freedom.
I didn't expect much from this read. I was entirely wrong. I loved every page.
I felt the author did an amazing job justifying Veronica's fiery thoughts and actions. Gabriel is her perfect foil (honestly, he's a little too perfect), and I literally can not wait to delve into book two!
The sex in this isn't heavy handed or overdone (only two scenes that fade to black after showing the reader how things go), but there's tons of tension and spice to keep you hooked and reading! I highly recommend this for any lovers of fantasy romance - I do not recommend it for sensitive readers. Check for trigger warnings.
Veronica was raised to believe she was the very epithet of power. Her house is top tier, her power is almost unparalleled, and her father painstakingly prepared her to take his place as ruler over everyone and everything within their little realm. Until she comes of age and they discover her magic isn't hers to command. She's a familiar, to be owned and used as an object by the highest bidder. Once won through ritual and rite, her life and will would cease to be her own and she would be wielded as nothing more than a thing to be utilized.
Gaslit and groomed, Nic thinks she's ready to face her fate, and even devised a plan to make her future more palatable. Nothing can stop someone of her wit, her determination, her resources... except perhaps, Lord Phel.
Gabriel wants to rebuild his house to its forgotten glory, but without a formal education, and nothing but a dilapidated swamp dwelling to back him, his chances are slim. What he needs is to secure a marriage bond with Veronica-- he thinks-- at least, that's the advice he was given. He didn't plan on wanting her, on falling for her, on hoping she would fall for him too.
Unlike any of his ilk, Gabriel struggles to navigate the world of darkness and deception he unwittingly stepped into. Despite his strength, talent and natural ability, his kind heart and naieve ideals make him vulnerable in a world he hates to be a part of.
Veronica could be his savior, or his undoing.
Gabriel could command her every move, or become her means to true freedom.
I didn't expect much from this read. I was entirely wrong. I loved every page.
I felt the author did an amazing job justifying Veronica's fiery thoughts and actions. Gabriel is her perfect foil (honestly, he's a little too perfect), and I literally can not wait to delve into book two!
The sex in this isn't heavy handed or overdone (only two scenes that fade to black after showing the reader how things go), but there's tons of tension and spice to keep you hooked and reading! I highly recommend this for any lovers of fantasy romance - I do not recommend it for sensitive readers. Check for trigger warnings.
February 26, 2021
Dark Wizard introduces readers to a new world from Kennedy, one where magic grants powers to people and through them, to ruling houses and families. The catch is that these magical wizards need familiars to gain even more power, and those familiars are people who end up bonded to their wizards for life. Depending on the wizard, this can be a good thing or a horrific experience.
Gabriel is a wizard from a once-powerful family that has lost its magic and favor. So when he starts showing great power as a wizard in his 20s, he hasn’t received the training and been steeped in the rituals that other wizards have. Nic, on the other hand, is the eldest daughter of an amazingly powerful house, so she expected a life of great wizardry. When she turns out to be a familiar rather than a wizard, she is crushed, and works to pick a wizarding partner she can dominate in life. But Gabriel comes along and is much more than she expects.
That’s a lot of worldbuilding to sum up in a couple of paragraphs, and Dark Wizard is deeply steeped in that. One real aspect to this story is the veritable enslavement of the familiars, all the more complicated in that they usually fall in love with their wizards. Gabriel is an anomaly. He hasn’t had all the traditions, snobbery, and cruelty of wizardry drummed into him from a young age, so while Nic rightly fears a powerful wizard, Gabriel’s power moves in unexpected and startling ways for them both.
Familiars and wizards unite through betrothing trials, and Kennedy powerfully depicts how pregnancy drives couples together even though they may not be personally suited. When Nic runs from Gabriel after she becomes pregnant, she drives both their lives in new and unknown ways.
Dark Wizard is a hard book to rate. There is a *lot* of worldbuilding, and it can be befuddling to deal with it all. And this is the start of a trilogy, so while Nic and Gabriel reach one level in their relationship, there is a lot more that needs to happen both between them and to their world that the reader only senses at this point. Still, it’s a powerful beginning to a very different type of world from Kennedy, and it will be fascinating to see it develop.
Gabriel is a wizard from a once-powerful family that has lost its magic and favor. So when he starts showing great power as a wizard in his 20s, he hasn’t received the training and been steeped in the rituals that other wizards have. Nic, on the other hand, is the eldest daughter of an amazingly powerful house, so she expected a life of great wizardry. When she turns out to be a familiar rather than a wizard, she is crushed, and works to pick a wizarding partner she can dominate in life. But Gabriel comes along and is much more than she expects.
That’s a lot of worldbuilding to sum up in a couple of paragraphs, and Dark Wizard is deeply steeped in that. One real aspect to this story is the veritable enslavement of the familiars, all the more complicated in that they usually fall in love with their wizards. Gabriel is an anomaly. He hasn’t had all the traditions, snobbery, and cruelty of wizardry drummed into him from a young age, so while Nic rightly fears a powerful wizard, Gabriel’s power moves in unexpected and startling ways for them both.
Familiars and wizards unite through betrothing trials, and Kennedy powerfully depicts how pregnancy drives couples together even though they may not be personally suited. When Nic runs from Gabriel after she becomes pregnant, she drives both their lives in new and unknown ways.
Dark Wizard is a hard book to rate. There is a *lot* of worldbuilding, and it can be befuddling to deal with it all. And this is the start of a trilogy, so while Nic and Gabriel reach one level in their relationship, there is a lot more that needs to happen both between them and to their world that the reader only senses at this point. Still, it’s a powerful beginning to a very different type of world from Kennedy, and it will be fascinating to see it develop.
January 29, 2023
This is a really fascinating premise and story that’s effortlessly readable. Sex/pregnancy rituals to bind wizards and familiars together for life?! I was dying to see how it would play out. But I do think some of the world building elements don’t really land for me. The Convocation is a system that doesn’t make any sense that they could even be sustainable without someone questioning their barbaric methods before Gabriel does. Especially since they seem so fine with him participating without thoroughly vetting or explaining the rules to him. I do enjoy (in a dark way) how ruthlessly selfish all of the wizards are (besides Gabriel of course) even if their abusive nature to their familiars is utterly startling. All of the character motivations make sense from Gabriel wanting to restore his family’s home by any means necessary, until he realizes that cost will be that his wife and the mother of his child will basically be his slave for life. And poor Veronica having to constantly reevaluate her changing circumstances to avoid constant fresh & horrible future outcomes pretty much on the fly. I was hoping this would feel like more of a complete story. Instead it feels more like the first third of one story, and I’m unsure if I want to keep reading more.
September 4, 2021
3.25 stars
Grade= somewhere between a C+ and a B-
The world is dark and the dynamics a little disturbing, however, the hero is likable and he is what makes this book likable
Grade= somewhere between a C+ and a B-
The world is dark and the dynamics a little disturbing, however, the hero is likable and he is what makes this book likable
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2021
Fascinating romance
This is not a standalone book and the next one doesn't come out until June, but I'm confident the wait will be worth it. This story is so utterly compelling and I absolutely adore our protagonists Gabriel and Nic. Note, even though this is subtitled "A Dark Fantasy Romance," it is less intense than I feared. When I think of dark romance, I think of appalling, abusive "heroes" - mafia and childhood bullies and horsemen of the apocalypse. Here, the WORLD is dark and disturbing, but our hero works so hard to show our heroine that they are equals and he treats her as such, even when society literally considers her his property that he can manipulate at will. This is exactly the kind of darkness I can handle - the way everyone else treats each other is honestly horrifying, and the partnership between Gabriel and Nic is one that will be a shining beacon of hope, a new and better way of being. Of course, this story is just the beginning and there's much work for them ahead.
The synopsis makes clear the transactional nature of this society's pairings. Again, there are some things we see on page or in flashback, but everything between our protagonists is thoughtful and consensual. I initially came into this with some trepidation but clicked Buy right at the end of the sample and just kept reading and reading because this book is so good, with such a rich world and characters. I'm so glad I picked it up...now can it be June already so I can read more?
This is not a standalone book and the next one doesn't come out until June, but I'm confident the wait will be worth it. This story is so utterly compelling and I absolutely adore our protagonists Gabriel and Nic. Note, even though this is subtitled "A Dark Fantasy Romance," it is less intense than I feared. When I think of dark romance, I think of appalling, abusive "heroes" - mafia and childhood bullies and horsemen of the apocalypse. Here, the WORLD is dark and disturbing, but our hero works so hard to show our heroine that they are equals and he treats her as such, even when society literally considers her his property that he can manipulate at will. This is exactly the kind of darkness I can handle - the way everyone else treats each other is honestly horrifying, and the partnership between Gabriel and Nic is one that will be a shining beacon of hope, a new and better way of being. Of course, this story is just the beginning and there's much work for them ahead.
The synopsis makes clear the transactional nature of this society's pairings. Again, there are some things we see on page or in flashback, but everything between our protagonists is thoughtful and consensual. I initially came into this with some trepidation but clicked Buy right at the end of the sample and just kept reading and reading because this book is so good, with such a rich world and characters. I'm so glad I picked it up...now can it be June already so I can read more?
February 3, 2024
**3.8**
I wasn’t sure what to expect. The covers are so old fashioned and cringy! This reminded me a lot of Tairen Soul (in more ways than just the covers) and Kushiels Dart. This is gritty and dark. The world is well realized and scary for certain types of magic users (aka Familiars). There are reasons the Convocation laws are the way they are and this is explained in detail which was interesting. I did roll my eyes a little at our MMC being the “chivalrous guy” wanting to do things differently but I guess we needed him because this world is so messed up.
The writing was solid enough but I wish there was a map. The main characters are in their heads a lot but considering the awful circumstances I can understand. I hope we learn even more of the Convocation and the power it holds over the world. Also hoping for more magic scenes in the next book.
I wasn’t sure what to expect. The covers are so old fashioned and cringy! This reminded me a lot of Tairen Soul (in more ways than just the covers) and Kushiels Dart. This is gritty and dark. The world is well realized and scary for certain types of magic users (aka Familiars). There are reasons the Convocation laws are the way they are and this is explained in detail which was interesting. I did roll my eyes a little at our MMC being the “chivalrous guy” wanting to do things differently but I guess we needed him because this world is so messed up.
The writing was solid enough but I wish there was a map. The main characters are in their heads a lot but considering the awful circumstances I can understand. I hope we learn even more of the Convocation and the power it holds over the world. Also hoping for more magic scenes in the next book.
June 24, 2021
Speechless…truly, I don’t yet have the words to express what I experienced reading this book. It’s as if Kennedy cast a spell on me. FASCINATED me. And I’m completely….utterly enchanted. Once I’ve had time to process and sleep (because, yes. I devoured this book in one sitting), I’ll come back and update this review. But just know that I fell in love with this book.
Edited:
All right. I’m back and here’s my real review.
Jeffe Kennedy’s Dark Wizard….Whaaaaaaatttt
Yes! That was my reaction while reading this book. That, and “holy crap, I need more” and “Why did I start this book at 10:30 pm???” Because of course I could not put it down. I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! Even at 7 am when my work alarm went off, I could not put it down!
If you’re looking for a cunning, but kind and noble hero, read this book! If you want a flawed, but shrewd heroine who knows her self-worth and refuses to bend to anyone’s will, read this book!
The plot is utterly compelling. The world is subtly dark and disturbing, but wildly original. The main characters, pitch perfect. Their chemistry…sizzling. And the themes! The themes in this book…autonomy, agency, freedom, power, control, equity, coupled with how the hero goes to great lengths to show the heroine that they are partners and equals in every way, are what really set this book apart.
Dark Wizard is more than a romance novel, but the romance is there. And it’s the kind that gives you fuzzies. The feels…It’s lush but not saccharine. Not quite slow burn or instant. Nor is it intense or temperate, but my god, does it burn bright. And I want more.
What a book!
Thankfully, the next book in this series will be released on July 9th! Otherwise, I’d be adrift.
Edited:
All right. I’m back and here’s my real review.
Jeffe Kennedy’s Dark Wizard….Whaaaaaaatttt
Yes! That was my reaction while reading this book. That, and “holy crap, I need more” and “Why did I start this book at 10:30 pm???” Because of course I could not put it down. I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! Even at 7 am when my work alarm went off, I could not put it down!
If you’re looking for a cunning, but kind and noble hero, read this book! If you want a flawed, but shrewd heroine who knows her self-worth and refuses to bend to anyone’s will, read this book!
The plot is utterly compelling. The world is subtly dark and disturbing, but wildly original. The main characters, pitch perfect. Their chemistry…sizzling. And the themes! The themes in this book…autonomy, agency, freedom, power, control, equity, coupled with how the hero goes to great lengths to show the heroine that they are partners and equals in every way, are what really set this book apart.
Dark Wizard is more than a romance novel, but the romance is there. And it’s the kind that gives you fuzzies. The feels…It’s lush but not saccharine. Not quite slow burn or instant. Nor is it intense or temperate, but my god, does it burn bright. And I want more.
What a book!
Thankfully, the next book in this series will be released on July 9th! Otherwise, I’d be adrift.
April 20, 2021
Nice cover, it drew me in. Does he look like a male version of Emily Blunt or is it just me?
Story and world building are solid, what bothered me was the perspective I got from our hero about the heroine. When it was him observing her, she seemed really immature in her responses to him and yet when it was her inner dialogue it felt more mature. It felt disconnected, like I was dealing with 2 different people. Which I guess can make sense if she is putting up a wall to keep someone from seeing her, but as a reader it was a little off.
The premise was interesting and I enjoyed the adventure portions but ultimately felt like it was a whole lot of trouble for nothing. The only thing to come from it all was the alone time the MC's get to spend together, getting to know each other.
I liked how he knew nothing much about the whole wizarding thing and she knew most everything- it sets a premise that they could truly be a team someday. And be wildly successful.
The ending- maybe it would have felt stronger if I hadn't decided to read this book so late and was tired. It felt lacking, since she felt love for him (the Fascination) and he couldn't say he loved her, yet he wanted more out of their relationship. It would have been nice for him to have had a chance to fall in love with her and been bold about it. Oh well.
Story and world building are solid, what bothered me was the perspective I got from our hero about the heroine. When it was him observing her, she seemed really immature in her responses to him and yet when it was her inner dialogue it felt more mature. It felt disconnected, like I was dealing with 2 different people. Which I guess can make sense if she is putting up a wall to keep someone from seeing her, but as a reader it was a little off.
The premise was interesting and I enjoyed the adventure portions but ultimately felt like it was a whole lot of trouble for nothing. The only thing to come from it all was the alone time the MC's get to spend together, getting to know each other.
I liked how he knew nothing much about the whole wizarding thing and she knew most everything- it sets a premise that they could truly be a team someday. And be wildly successful.
The ending- maybe it would have felt stronger if I hadn't decided to read this book so late and was tired. It felt lacking, since she felt love for him (the Fascination) and he couldn't say he loved her, yet he wanted more out of their relationship. It would have been nice for him to have had a chance to fall in love with her and been bold about it. Oh well.
February 25, 2021
Rated 4.5 Stars
Dark Wizard was compelling. It was brilliant. It was a bit slow at the beginning but once things to move I was completely engrossed in it. I loved the world building and magical system, so interesting and intriguing. I adored the main characters Gabriel and Nic and their relationship dynamics. I’m most definitely looking forward to reading the rest of their story. I’m eagerly anticipating it. I definitely recommend this book to one and all.
Copy provided by author
Dark Wizard was compelling. It was brilliant. It was a bit slow at the beginning but once things to move I was completely engrossed in it. I loved the world building and magical system, so interesting and intriguing. I adored the main characters Gabriel and Nic and their relationship dynamics. I’m most definitely looking forward to reading the rest of their story. I’m eagerly anticipating it. I definitely recommend this book to one and all.
Copy provided by author
June 16, 2021
It's hard to rate a novel which both fascinates and frustrates you but that is exactly what happened with Dark Wizard a fascinating love story with a difficult heroine which takes place in a world where humans are shape-shifting familiars.
Lady Nic (Veronica) Elal was raised to be her father’s heir and lead their powerful, wealthy magical House. That plan assumed her sorcery would manifest as wizarding power, the alchemy which allows conjuring, but when the test results come back, she is branded a Familiar, a form of witchcraft where the holder must cede their power to a conjurer. The label dooms her to life as a second-class citizen, where she will marry and serve as little more than a slave and breeder for a powerful wizard. This is the best-case scenario, and to achieve even that small bit of dignity she has to undergo the Betrothal Trials. These “tests” involve imprisoning Nic in a tower room, where once a month she is serviced by a wizard who pays a fortune to impregnate her within one night. Nic then waits, still imprisoned, for thirty days and if his seed doesn’t take, they are considered genetically incompatible and Nic must repeat the cycle with a different man. Her only hope for freedom and control over her own life is to manipulate her future husband and the initial candidates have been carefully culled by Nic and her mother to ensure Nic can use charm and guile to influence her wizard master and rise to rule whatever magical House she marries into.
Their plan is a disaster. Her first three trials are little more than transactions. Nic and her mother lay out a delicious meal, served with good wine, and Nic’s hope is to engage in conversation before heading to bed but it doesn’t work out that way. The wizards enter the room, tell her to lift her skirts and enter her with no conversation. Nic is used to this scenario by the fourth month and expects nothing different from Lord Gabriel Phel. He completely surprises her.
Gabriel’s House has been decimated and the only hope for his people to survive and thrive is to restore it to its former station in the Convocation’s complex and arcane society. While his moon/water magic is not considered very useful, he is extremely powerful, and his hope is to unite with an equally powerful Familiar to enhance his skills and gain prominence in the wizarding world. Veronica Elal offers not only her off the charts Familiar magic but is a highborn daughter of a wealthy family who will give Gabriel a connection to the nobles of the land. He all but beggars himself for a chance to take part in the trials and anxiously awaits his chance to meet Veronica.
She isn’t what he expected. Veronica is as beautiful and bright as he could possibly have hoped for but there is also a vulnerability and a passion there that offer a promise of not just a relationship built on power but friendship and love.
He isn’t what she expected. Gabriel treats Nic with kindness and courtesy and seems genuinely interested in her not just as a womb and servant but as a person. Their night together is no mere coupling but a genuine love making, a wonderful experience for both of them and when they part the next morning after a tender lucky number seven bout of sex, Nic is hopeful they will never see each other again. She likes Gabriel far too much for her own good.
Nic, of course, turns up pregnant by Gabriel which means that she will not only have to see him but marry him. She and her mother concoct yet another ridiculous scheme, this time for her escape, only later realizing that this puts Nic at the mercy of the Convocation’s evil Hunters, magically enhanced beings who will chase her till she is caught and then bring her back to the Convocation for punishment. And so, our adventure into love and mayhem begins.
Kennedy has created a darkly compelling, fascinating world here evocative of The Handmaid's Tale, which I happen to love. She does a nice job of showing how distasteful the situation is for Familiars but also showing how fabulous this world full of magic could be if it was a more just and gentle place.
The author also does a great job of creating a terrific hero in Gabriel. An outsider to the world of wizards, he brings kindness and his belief in equality to his interactions with Nic. He is brave, true, loyal, worthy, smart, generous - practically perfect in every way until almost the end of the story. At that point he stops thinking, starts feeling, and a bit of the shine wears off. I still adored him, I just wish he hadn't caught whatever insanity had a grip on Nic.
I like my heroines clever and resourceful and those were weak points for Nic. For an insider, who is meant to understand the Convocation and its ways, she is woefully ignorant of what they are like. The “plans” she and her mother come up with - both to manage her husband and for her escape - are more wishful thinking than strategy. There are plenty of times Nic acts heroically in the book but those moments are written in such a manner as to very much remind you that you are reading a novel. They were simply such silly moments - requiring Gabriel or others to act out of character in order to give her a chance to be the star of the show.
It’s because of Nic and her often immature and ill thought out behaviors that I had such mixed feelings about this novel. Still, I was interested enough to see where the story was heading to pre-order book two. Here’s hoping that exceeds book one.
Lady Nic (Veronica) Elal was raised to be her father’s heir and lead their powerful, wealthy magical House. That plan assumed her sorcery would manifest as wizarding power, the alchemy which allows conjuring, but when the test results come back, she is branded a Familiar, a form of witchcraft where the holder must cede their power to a conjurer. The label dooms her to life as a second-class citizen, where she will marry and serve as little more than a slave and breeder for a powerful wizard. This is the best-case scenario, and to achieve even that small bit of dignity she has to undergo the Betrothal Trials. These “tests” involve imprisoning Nic in a tower room, where once a month she is serviced by a wizard who pays a fortune to impregnate her within one night. Nic then waits, still imprisoned, for thirty days and if his seed doesn’t take, they are considered genetically incompatible and Nic must repeat the cycle with a different man. Her only hope for freedom and control over her own life is to manipulate her future husband and the initial candidates have been carefully culled by Nic and her mother to ensure Nic can use charm and guile to influence her wizard master and rise to rule whatever magical House she marries into.
Their plan is a disaster. Her first three trials are little more than transactions. Nic and her mother lay out a delicious meal, served with good wine, and Nic’s hope is to engage in conversation before heading to bed but it doesn’t work out that way. The wizards enter the room, tell her to lift her skirts and enter her with no conversation. Nic is used to this scenario by the fourth month and expects nothing different from Lord Gabriel Phel. He completely surprises her.
Gabriel’s House has been decimated and the only hope for his people to survive and thrive is to restore it to its former station in the Convocation’s complex and arcane society. While his moon/water magic is not considered very useful, he is extremely powerful, and his hope is to unite with an equally powerful Familiar to enhance his skills and gain prominence in the wizarding world. Veronica Elal offers not only her off the charts Familiar magic but is a highborn daughter of a wealthy family who will give Gabriel a connection to the nobles of the land. He all but beggars himself for a chance to take part in the trials and anxiously awaits his chance to meet Veronica.
She isn’t what he expected. Veronica is as beautiful and bright as he could possibly have hoped for but there is also a vulnerability and a passion there that offer a promise of not just a relationship built on power but friendship and love.
He isn’t what she expected. Gabriel treats Nic with kindness and courtesy and seems genuinely interested in her not just as a womb and servant but as a person. Their night together is no mere coupling but a genuine love making, a wonderful experience for both of them and when they part the next morning after a tender lucky number seven bout of sex, Nic is hopeful they will never see each other again. She likes Gabriel far too much for her own good.
Nic, of course, turns up pregnant by Gabriel which means that she will not only have to see him but marry him. She and her mother concoct yet another ridiculous scheme, this time for her escape, only later realizing that this puts Nic at the mercy of the Convocation’s evil Hunters, magically enhanced beings who will chase her till she is caught and then bring her back to the Convocation for punishment. And so, our adventure into love and mayhem begins.
Kennedy has created a darkly compelling, fascinating world here evocative of The Handmaid's Tale, which I happen to love. She does a nice job of showing how distasteful the situation is for Familiars but also showing how fabulous this world full of magic could be if it was a more just and gentle place.
The author also does a great job of creating a terrific hero in Gabriel. An outsider to the world of wizards, he brings kindness and his belief in equality to his interactions with Nic. He is brave, true, loyal, worthy, smart, generous - practically perfect in every way until almost the end of the story. At that point he stops thinking, starts feeling, and a bit of the shine wears off. I still adored him, I just wish he hadn't caught whatever insanity had a grip on Nic.
I like my heroines clever and resourceful and those were weak points for Nic. For an insider, who is meant to understand the Convocation and its ways, she is woefully ignorant of what they are like. The “plans” she and her mother come up with - both to manage her husband and for her escape - are more wishful thinking than strategy. There are plenty of times Nic acts heroically in the book but those moments are written in such a manner as to very much remind you that you are reading a novel. They were simply such silly moments - requiring Gabriel or others to act out of character in order to give her a chance to be the star of the show.
It’s because of Nic and her often immature and ill thought out behaviors that I had such mixed feelings about this novel. Still, I was interested enough to see where the story was heading to pre-order book two. Here’s hoping that exceeds book one.
September 16, 2022
This was a frustrating read for me. Nic and Gabriel spent so much time bumping heads and arguing that it got really, REALLY old. I'm not usually a reader that gets annoyed at the "if they'd just sit down and talk" trope but that really got on my last nerve.
September 4, 2021
4.5 Stars.
Dark Wizard is the compelling first book in Jeffe Kennedy’s Bonds of Magic Series .
Lord Gabriel Phel is the first person in his family in generations to be born with magic and he wants one thing: to restore his shattered house to its former station in the Convocation’s complex and arcane society. To do this he needs to obtain a familiar to supplement his skills, preferably one who is a highborn daughter who can also become his wife.
Lady Veronica Elal doesn’t have many choices. To her - and her fathers - bitter disappointment, she will never be the powerful wizard she had hoped to become. Instead Nic is relegated to becoming a familiar like her mother, a second-class citizen in the Convocation. Destined to bond with a wizard, her only hope lies in choosing a candidate who she’ll be able to manipulate, but to do that she must take part in the Betrothal Trials. Whichever one of her suitors impregnates her will claim her as a familiar and wife.
But it’s clear to Nic within moments of meeting, that Gabriel isn’t going to be easy to manipulate, and her carefully laid plan is derailed when she discovers she’s pregnant with Gabriel’s child.
Driven by panic and the urge to take control of her life she does the unthinkable: she runs… But she can’t escape her heart.
I really liked this book. The blurb didn’t really give much away & I didn’t really know what I was get into, and it make me think that there was going to have a fair bit of heavy up-front world building which made me a little hesitant to read it (my brain doesn’t function so well after doing ECT a few years ago and I struggle with some memory issues which can cause some problems). To be completely honest, if I was going off the blurb alone I don’t know if I would have actually picked this one up, but Jeffe Kennedy is one of my favourite authors and I absolutely adore her Twelve Kingdoms Universe books, so I decided to give Dark Wizard a go and I’m very glad I did.
Despite my concerns, Jeffe Kennedy’s world building is incredibly vivid and compelling, yet easy to understand. By the end of the book I did still have quite a few questions about the Convocation but I think questions I had were to be expected since as a reader, I was discovering a lot of the information about the Convocation at the same time Gabriel was and he still doesn’t have all the answers either.
I found that Dark Wizard seemed to be more of a character driven novel, which isn’t a bad thing as I love character driven books, and the main focus was on Gabriel & Nic and their relationship, and I’m very eager to see how their arc progresses over the series.
I loved Gabriel so much. The blurb makes he seem quite callous, cold, and ruthless but he comes across quite differently in the book itself. He really does wish for a genuine connection with Nic and makes it abundantly clear that he wants her to be happy and retain her freedom. At times he’s darker side comes out, mainly when he’s having to deal with the Convocation, but when it comes to Nic he treats her with a reverence and infatuation that was incredibly endearing.
Although in the eyes of the Convocation, and to Nic herself, the power balance between them tips in Gabriel’s favour as the wizard. But Gabriel is almost completely ignorant when it comes to the Convocation, while Nic has been raised & educated within it her entire life, and I found that within their relationship, this evened their dynamic to an extent, maybe even tilting it in Nic’s favour.
I loved Gabriel’s vulnerability throughout the book, not just with Nic but his overall ignorance with how the Convocation works and his unease at what his roll of wizard seemingly requires him to do. It added so much depth to his character and was refreshing to read.
The Bonds of Magic series is advertised as a Dark Fantasy Romance, and I can see why that’s the case as the way familiar’s are treated within the Convocation is quite dark, and Betrothal Trials are seedy and hardly ensures enthusiastic consent, and while it doesn’t occur on the page, reading Nic’s thoughts about the first few wizard’s she was paired with for the trials was fairly uncomfortable, but the relationship between Gabriel and Nic wasn’t all that dark at all.
I loved the dynamic between them so much that my favourite parts of the book were when they were together, and that Nic – despite her concerns about the Fascination stealing her free will – really didn’t hold back from telling Gabriel exactly what she thought & pushing for what needed to be done when he held back.
And in equal measure, I liked that Gabriel was intent on pushing back on the archaic and at times abhorrent way wizards are expected to use their familiars, despite Nic’s continuous resignation to the ‘status quo’. I also loved how he saw through Nic’s deflection and defences to who she really was.
I found Nic to be a very intriguing character and loved getting to unearth more of her personality and strength throughout the novel, and I’m looking forward to getting to read more about her as the series progresses.
She struck him as both sad and angry. Frustrated, perhaps, almost to the point of despair. That, more than anything else, appealed to him about her. He understood frustrated ambition, and the despair that followed close behind.
The world of Dark Wizard was so engaging, and while I felt like a lot of the book focused on Gabriel and Nic’s relationship arc- which isn’t a bad thing at all as I love character driven stories- I’m really looking forward to getting to see how Gabriel and Nic will shake things up within the Convocation and to be able to explore more of this enthralling world and it’s compelling characters in the next book, Bright Familiar which is available now.
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“You don’t understand, Gabriel. I can never be free of you. It’s too late. Even if you sent me to the other side of the world, I’d find a way back to you.”
Dark Wizard is the compelling first book in Jeffe Kennedy’s Bonds of Magic Series .
Lord Gabriel Phel is the first person in his family in generations to be born with magic and he wants one thing: to restore his shattered house to its former station in the Convocation’s complex and arcane society. To do this he needs to obtain a familiar to supplement his skills, preferably one who is a highborn daughter who can also become his wife.
Lady Veronica Elal doesn’t have many choices. To her - and her fathers - bitter disappointment, she will never be the powerful wizard she had hoped to become. Instead Nic is relegated to becoming a familiar like her mother, a second-class citizen in the Convocation. Destined to bond with a wizard, her only hope lies in choosing a candidate who she’ll be able to manipulate, but to do that she must take part in the Betrothal Trials. Whichever one of her suitors impregnates her will claim her as a familiar and wife.
But it’s clear to Nic within moments of meeting, that Gabriel isn’t going to be easy to manipulate, and her carefully laid plan is derailed when she discovers she’s pregnant with Gabriel’s child.
Driven by panic and the urge to take control of her life she does the unthinkable: she runs… But she can’t escape her heart.
“You felt something, too,” he murmured. “I think that’s part of why you ran. You were afraid of this powerful thing between us.”
I really liked this book. The blurb didn’t really give much away & I didn’t really know what I was get into, and it make me think that there was going to have a fair bit of heavy up-front world building which made me a little hesitant to read it (my brain doesn’t function so well after doing ECT a few years ago and I struggle with some memory issues which can cause some problems). To be completely honest, if I was going off the blurb alone I don’t know if I would have actually picked this one up, but Jeffe Kennedy is one of my favourite authors and I absolutely adore her Twelve Kingdoms Universe books, so I decided to give Dark Wizard a go and I’m very glad I did.
Despite my concerns, Jeffe Kennedy’s world building is incredibly vivid and compelling, yet easy to understand. By the end of the book I did still have quite a few questions about the Convocation but I think questions I had were to be expected since as a reader, I was discovering a lot of the information about the Convocation at the same time Gabriel was and he still doesn’t have all the answers either.
I found that Dark Wizard seemed to be more of a character driven novel, which isn’t a bad thing as I love character driven books, and the main focus was on Gabriel & Nic and their relationship, and I’m very eager to see how their arc progresses over the series.
I loved Gabriel so much. The blurb makes he seem quite callous, cold, and ruthless but he comes across quite differently in the book itself. He really does wish for a genuine connection with Nic and makes it abundantly clear that he wants her to be happy and retain her freedom. At times he’s darker side comes out, mainly when he’s having to deal with the Convocation, but when it comes to Nic he treats her with a reverence and infatuation that was incredibly endearing.
“It’s just that…” He trailed off, seeing something in her face. “I won’t use you, Nic. Not for sex, not for magic, not for anything. I do want you. Even if you put on those cosmetics and a pretty dress, I couldn’t want you more than I already do… It was foolish of me to try to hide that from you. But wanting you isn’t enough.”
Although in the eyes of the Convocation, and to Nic herself, the power balance between them tips in Gabriel’s favour as the wizard. But Gabriel is almost completely ignorant when it comes to the Convocation, while Nic has been raised & educated within it her entire life, and I found that within their relationship, this evened their dynamic to an extent, maybe even tilting it in Nic’s favour.
I loved Gabriel’s vulnerability throughout the book, not just with Nic but his overall ignorance with how the Convocation works and his unease at what his roll of wizard seemingly requires him to do. It added so much depth to his character and was refreshing to read.
“I am not so comfortable in my skin as you are,” he observed wryly, bending to shuck his pants.
“You’ve clearly had lovers,” she noted, rather touched by his shyness. Or was it another gambit to soften her? “Surely you’ve been naked in front of women before.”
“Yes.” He joined her on the bed before she got a good look at the rest of him. “But I’m chagrined to note that your good opinion seems to matter.”
The Bonds of Magic series is advertised as a Dark Fantasy Romance, and I can see why that’s the case as the way familiar’s are treated within the Convocation is quite dark, and Betrothal Trials are seedy and hardly ensures enthusiastic consent, and while it doesn’t occur on the page, reading Nic’s thoughts about the first few wizard’s she was paired with for the trials was fairly uncomfortable, but the relationship between Gabriel and Nic wasn’t all that dark at all.
I loved the dynamic between them so much that my favourite parts of the book were when they were together, and that Nic – despite her concerns about the Fascination stealing her free will – really didn’t hold back from telling Gabriel exactly what she thought & pushing for what needed to be done when he held back.
Her lips parted, only breath hissing out. “I take it back. You are a fool.”
He grinned at her. “I prefer ‘confident risk-taker.’”
“You seem more like a lazy procrastinator to me,” she taunted. “All talk and no action.”
And in equal measure, I liked that Gabriel was intent on pushing back on the archaic and at times abhorrent way wizards are expected to use their familiars, despite Nic’s continuous resignation to the ‘status quo’. I also loved how he saw through Nic’s deflection and defences to who she really was.
“You like to pretend that you’re so practical and hard-hearted, but you have a depth of compassion in you, Nic. You feel everything so deeply—probably that’s why you developed such a hard shell. But that shell is a construct, not who you truly are.”
I found Nic to be a very intriguing character and loved getting to unearth more of her personality and strength throughout the novel, and I’m looking forward to getting to read more about her as the series progresses.
She struck him as both sad and angry. Frustrated, perhaps, almost to the point of despair. That, more than anything else, appealed to him about her. He understood frustrated ambition, and the despair that followed close behind.
The world of Dark Wizard was so engaging, and while I felt like a lot of the book focused on Gabriel and Nic’s relationship arc- which isn’t a bad thing at all as I love character driven stories- I’m really looking forward to getting to see how Gabriel and Nic will shake things up within the Convocation and to be able to explore more of this enthralling world and it’s compelling characters in the next book, Bright Familiar which is available now.
Connect With Me:
Tumblr | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Blog | The StoryGraph | Ko-fi | Discord
July 29, 2021
This was very good - a fresh take on enemies to lovers. The main characters and their dual perspectives were excellently written. I’m a sucker for romances where love grows slowly from trust - and Lady Veronica certainly has to find that trust in Gabriel. Fortunately for her, he’s certainly worthy of it ❤️
There’s an element of the No Communication trope here - where the plot is furthered along because the main characters * just * won’t * talk to * each other * dammit * - but in this story it makes sense....
Nic doesn’t want to expose her weakness to Gabriel, a man she barely knows and has no reason to trust. As a wizard (of whom she has known many), odds are he would ultimately prove callous and cruel. How could she expect differently?
And Gabriel didn’t realize Nic’s precarious social situation until he discovered the oppressive wizard/familiar social dynamic that would be forced upon her in their society. She literally has no good options allowed to her - why wouldn’t she lash out when cornered?
Highly recommend! This is my first book by Jeffe Kennedy and definitely won’t be my last. Thanks to Grace Draven for recommending this so highly :)
There’s an element of the No Communication trope here - where the plot is furthered along because the main characters * just * won’t * talk to * each other * dammit * - but in this story it makes sense....
Nic doesn’t want to expose her weakness to Gabriel, a man she barely knows and has no reason to trust. As a wizard (of whom she has known many), odds are he would ultimately prove callous and cruel. How could she expect differently?
And Gabriel didn’t realize Nic’s precarious social situation until he discovered the oppressive wizard/familiar social dynamic that would be forced upon her in their society. She literally has no good options allowed to her - why wouldn’t she lash out when cornered?
Highly recommend! This is my first book by Jeffe Kennedy and definitely won’t be my last. Thanks to Grace Draven for recommending this so highly :)
May 4, 2021
I enjoyed this story and I would not call it a dark romance.
The heroine chooses to undergo the betrothal trials, so each month she has sex for one night with a wizard. If/when she gets pregnant she will marry that wizard and become his familiar.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
She runs away from the hero because she decides she wants to be free. He was very kind to her on their night together and told her he wouldn't touch her unless she wanted him to. She did.
Eventually the hero and heroine come to an understanding and do a "become my familiar" ritual. Except they don't use the standard spell. They decide to be partners and hero alters the spell and they hope they are now equals, and she is not his slave. We will see in the next book if it worked.
The heroine chooses to undergo the betrothal trials, so each month she has sex for one night with a wizard. If/when she gets pregnant she will marry that wizard and become his familiar.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
She runs away from the hero because she decides she wants to be free. He was very kind to her on their night together and told her he wouldn't touch her unless she wanted him to. She did.
Eventually the hero and heroine come to an understanding and do a "become my familiar" ritual. Except they don't use the standard spell. They decide to be partners and hero alters the spell and they hope they are now equals, and she is not his slave. We will see in the next book if it worked.
July 6, 2021
4 STARS!!!! I loved it. It was so so close to perfect. The one thing that I wanted was a) the book being a bit longer and b) a lot more world building about the convocation, how the system works, how familiars and the trials and everything work, and also the fascination - if it's so powerful I would expect nic to have so much more dilemma and frustration and anger about it too
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