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Bonds of Magic #2
Bright Familiar
He wanted her with consuming passion... and so did the monster within.
Lady Veronica Elal has been freed from her tower—and entered a life of servitude. It doesn’t matter that her wizard master has odd ideas about circumventing Convocation tradition and making their relationship equal. Nic prides herself on her practicality and that means not pretending her marriage is full of hearts and flowers. Besides she understands that, despite her new husband’s idealism, they face obstacles so great the pair of them could be crushed to nothing, even without dashing themselves brainless trying to fight the Convocation.
Lord Gabriel Phel has come this far against impossible odds. He was born with powerful wizard magic, the first in his family in generations. He’s managed to begin the process of reinstating his fallen house. And—having staked his family’s meager fortune to win a familiar to amplify his magic, a highborn daughter to be mother to his children, his lady, and lover—he rescued Nic in a distant land, successfully bringing her home to House Phel. Though she’s cynical about their chances of success, he’s certain they can defy their enemies and flourish. Together.
But, the more Gabriel discovers about working with the fiery Nic, attempting to learn the finer points of wizardry and marriage, the more illicit fantasies plague him. His need for Nic—and the dark cravings she stirs in his black wizard’s heart—grow daily. Though Nic has reconciled herself to being possessed by Gabriel—and indeed yearns for even more from her brooding and reluctant master—creating a new life for herself isn’t easy. Especially when Gabriel seems determined to subvert the foundation of her world. Starting with her father.
Lady Veronica Elal has been freed from her tower—and entered a life of servitude. It doesn’t matter that her wizard master has odd ideas about circumventing Convocation tradition and making their relationship equal. Nic prides herself on her practicality and that means not pretending her marriage is full of hearts and flowers. Besides she understands that, despite her new husband’s idealism, they face obstacles so great the pair of them could be crushed to nothing, even without dashing themselves brainless trying to fight the Convocation.
Lord Gabriel Phel has come this far against impossible odds. He was born with powerful wizard magic, the first in his family in generations. He’s managed to begin the process of reinstating his fallen house. And—having staked his family’s meager fortune to win a familiar to amplify his magic, a highborn daughter to be mother to his children, his lady, and lover—he rescued Nic in a distant land, successfully bringing her home to House Phel. Though she’s cynical about their chances of success, he’s certain they can defy their enemies and flourish. Together.
But, the more Gabriel discovers about working with the fiery Nic, attempting to learn the finer points of wizardry and marriage, the more illicit fantasies plague him. His need for Nic—and the dark cravings she stirs in his black wizard’s heart—grow daily. Though Nic has reconciled herself to being possessed by Gabriel—and indeed yearns for even more from her brooding and reluctant master—creating a new life for herself isn’t easy. Especially when Gabriel seems determined to subvert the foundation of her world. Starting with her father.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2021
117 people are currently reading
379 people want to read
About the author
Jeffe Kennedy
99 books1,338 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 73 reviews
July 9, 2021
This world feels so dark to me, not that that is a bad thing, just you know, I would not want to live there! I feel so sorry for familiar and so many wizards are asshats.
The world is grey and unforgiving. You can go a long time thinking yes I will be a wizard! And then BAM! Nope, you are a familiar. Suddenly you are the dirt beneath someones feet, and do not even get me started on the choosing process, getting raped, and I guess if you are lucky meeting someone like Gabriel who you choose to be with. Yes, dark world. I want these two to rise up, take over and BURN it to the ground. The familiars are the ones making the wizards great, so more power to the familiars! I want a revolution started. Intriguing world, oh yes.
Gabriel is still weary, he is not a fan of the wizarding world and how the rule, and tell him how to rule. He likes Nic, she is his wife, he wants to protect her and not just use her as a magical tool. And Nic has sure realised that Gabriel is the best that could have happened to her. He let's her be her, he is hot, and she will try her best to make his House great again.
But the stupid wizarding rulers want her to bend and be rehabilitated. And she has a wizard to teach, a Mansion to rebuild and a House to make one of the big ones again. Ugh those damn idiots in charge. Revolution people, bring them down. Or let a a slow process start of showing others that they can be nice to each other.
I do wonder about book 3. I hope things goes they way, and now they have his sister to worry about too. I have no idea how this will turn out.
Passion, danger and one intriguing , yet dark, world.
The world is grey and unforgiving. You can go a long time thinking yes I will be a wizard! And then BAM! Nope, you are a familiar. Suddenly you are the dirt beneath someones feet, and do not even get me started on the choosing process, getting raped, and I guess if you are lucky meeting someone like Gabriel who you choose to be with. Yes, dark world. I want these two to rise up, take over and BURN it to the ground. The familiars are the ones making the wizards great, so more power to the familiars! I want a revolution started. Intriguing world, oh yes.
Gabriel is still weary, he is not a fan of the wizarding world and how the rule, and tell him how to rule. He likes Nic, she is his wife, he wants to protect her and not just use her as a magical tool. And Nic has sure realised that Gabriel is the best that could have happened to her. He let's her be her, he is hot, and she will try her best to make his House great again.
But the stupid wizarding rulers want her to bend and be rehabilitated. And she has a wizard to teach, a Mansion to rebuild and a House to make one of the big ones again. Ugh those damn idiots in charge. Revolution people, bring them down. Or let a a slow process start of showing others that they can be nice to each other.
I do wonder about book 3. I hope things goes they way, and now they have his sister to worry about too. I have no idea how this will turn out.
Passion, danger and one intriguing , yet dark, world.
July 9, 2021
This is yet another totally awesome read.
Gabriel and Nic have to learn to work together and to trust the other, but it's hard going. Gabriel is not just ready to fight the world, he is fighting himself and his nature as well. Nic on the other hand is so used to keeping to herself she keeps Gabriel at a distance when it would be saver to trust him.
I loved seeing their relationship grow and mature in this book. I was totally invested in them learning to trust each other and themselves, and to learn to work together.
I also loved seeing Nic taking control of rebuilding House Phel and helping Gabriel take his place as the head of his House. At the same time Gabriel shows Nic where the rules she has lived with for her whole life are wrong and why they should be changed.
The romance is steamy, hot, and delicious! After all the trouble in Dark Wizard they flourish in this book and that was so good to see.
The problems they landed themselves in are far from over though, and even as they start to work together and House Phel grows, you know it's only a matter of time before trouble finds them.
The book ends once again at a satisfying point, but I'm more than eager for the next book to see what's next for them.
Gabriel and Nic have to learn to work together and to trust the other, but it's hard going. Gabriel is not just ready to fight the world, he is fighting himself and his nature as well. Nic on the other hand is so used to keeping to herself she keeps Gabriel at a distance when it would be saver to trust him.
I loved seeing their relationship grow and mature in this book. I was totally invested in them learning to trust each other and themselves, and to learn to work together.
I also loved seeing Nic taking control of rebuilding House Phel and helping Gabriel take his place as the head of his House. At the same time Gabriel shows Nic where the rules she has lived with for her whole life are wrong and why they should be changed.
The romance is steamy, hot, and delicious! After all the trouble in Dark Wizard they flourish in this book and that was so good to see.
The problems they landed themselves in are far from over though, and even as they start to work together and House Phel grows, you know it's only a matter of time before trouble finds them.
The book ends once again at a satisfying point, but I'm more than eager for the next book to see what's next for them.
February 1, 2025
Complex world for me and the couple. None of us had a good time in the first half of the book - as the couple's views, resulted in circular arguments. Eventually they were overcome but it was a little tedious. I know their next book will be great.
August 12, 2021
Nothing much happened in this book to make the story progress.
March 1, 2023
First, all the characters are so well written, but the main characters, Nic and Gabriel, are just off the charts wonderful. Nick is feisty and a bad ass and she’s not taking any of Gabriel’s shit. And Gabriel is like, “Well I’m not taking any of your shit.” And Nic’s all back, “Well I’m REALLY not taking any of your shit...” It’s all brilliant banter and steamy chemistry, and a lot of fun.
Now, some thoughts on the Adult aspects of the book. The blending of eroticism and magic is probably not an original concept in fantasy romance, and this story has it in spades. However, I thought the author crafts the perfect tone in this area, especially when the theme of Domination (capital D) is introduced. The sexual plot thread could have turned creepy or worse, but it doesn’t. Instead it is portrayed through the MC’s growing, healthy marital relationship, while also brilliantly weaving in the critical erotic magical aspects. Really, bravo on how this was all written. It was extremely titillating but not cringy. That’s a real skill.
Now, some thoughts on the Adult aspects of the book. The blending of eroticism and magic is probably not an original concept in fantasy romance, and this story has it in spades. However, I thought the author crafts the perfect tone in this area, especially when the theme of Domination (capital D) is introduced. The sexual plot thread could have turned creepy or worse, but it doesn’t. Instead it is portrayed through the MC’s growing, healthy marital relationship, while also brilliantly weaving in the critical erotic magical aspects. Really, bravo on how this was all written. It was extremely titillating but not cringy. That’s a real skill.
June 3, 2022
Guh. The politics and scheming and world building are really interesting and why I'm still reading this but this could use an editor. So many repetitious arguments. No real character growth. And my god this hero. Who continues to demonstrate how Not Like Other Wizards he is by controlling the heroine for her own good because he's sure he knows her own mind better than she does. 🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮
November 23, 2021
I read the first book even though the world felt off. I’m calling it a day on the 2nd book after 17%. I hate the “I’m stuck with loving you and can’t do anything about it” thing that the heroine is doing. I don’t like a world where she can’t have choice and agency. It’s just not fun to read.
July 8, 2021
This second book in this series certainly has the couple taking the heat level between them up a notch or two ! The more time Gabriel spends with Nic the more possessive he gets and frankly Nic is definitely on-board with the thought of releasing his darker side. They might be bonded as Wizard and Familiar now but there's still the tricky situation with the all controlling and very powerful Convocation to deal with. The idealistic Gabriel still has a lot to learn but ever practical Nic is determined to lead him through those muddy waters and elevate House Phel back to greatness.
This couple are quite simply pure magic together. From the very start it was easy to like Gabriel who tried so valiantly to charm and woo the female who he felt was in an impossible situation. He has definitely succeeded although to be fair pragmatic Nic is the sort to battle through regardless. I truly enjoyed meeting new characters as it was eye opening discovering how the role of a Familiar functions in this world where magic and status is all. Its not exactly a cliff hanger ending as strides are definitely made but there are still questions but alas I and my fellow readers will have to wait for the next book as this couple struggle on ever onwards and upwards but can they stay together ?
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This couple are quite simply pure magic together. From the very start it was easy to like Gabriel who tried so valiantly to charm and woo the female who he felt was in an impossible situation. He has definitely succeeded although to be fair pragmatic Nic is the sort to battle through regardless. I truly enjoyed meeting new characters as it was eye opening discovering how the role of a Familiar functions in this world where magic and status is all. Its not exactly a cliff hanger ending as strides are definitely made but there are still questions but alas I and my fellow readers will have to wait for the next book as this couple struggle on ever onwards and upwards but can they stay together ?
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
September 30, 2021
Bright Familiar focuses on the relationship-building between Veronica & Gabriel. It felt like they could not decide what they wanted through the whole book, and little else happened. Last 10% finally the things started to roll and then - boom - sudden ending. It's not even a cliffhanger. It just stopped.
Overall, I liked Dark Wizard much more.
Overall, I liked Dark Wizard much more.
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May 4, 2022I dropped the book around 50% because I became uncomfortable with the direction of the relationships between the main couple.
When I read the first book, I thought Gabriel and Vic would try to avoid the general dynamic (dominant/submissive) between mages and familiars. I based my assumptions on the fact that Gabriel wasn't comfortable with familiars' treatment; and that Vic wasn't ecstatic about her role as a familiar. I was disappointed when instead of trying to break all the conventions surrounding mage/familiar relationships, they decided to give into them (even if it only applies to their sexual relationships).
I'm not a fan of BDSM, but even with all the faults I see in it, the basis of BDSM relationships is informed consent. I don't think that Veronica could give that because of her nature as a familiar. Gabriel's path to a dominant figure also didn't sit right with me. He is a very caring and gentle person, and his enjoyment of dominance over the person who is influenced by society's expectations of familiars contradicts his identity for me. Why would he want to dominate a free soul like Veronica? I also didn't like that during their first session, everything concentrated around HIS pleasure. Gabriel could do whatever he wanted with Veronica to get the sexual release he craved; there weren't any boundaries between them. As I understand, this isn't the safe way to practice BDSM.
I didn't understand the idea of practicing BDSM as the only way to reach true power. First of all, why isn't regular sex enough in their case? They seemed to enjoy each other's company before their first session in the arcanium. I get that the general mage/familiar dynamic involves pain and violence as they can invoke extreme emotions (and produce magical power in return). But mages do that because they don't care about their familiars. Veronica and Gabriel care about each other; their emotions are already pretty strong, so why do they need to practice BDSM? Especially when Gabriel didn't want to do that in the first place. Second, there is another familiar, Narlis, who is old and not in her right mind. Should she be treated that way because this is the most practical way for a mage to be powerful? Does her nature demand others to treat her that way? Was she treated like that by her "master"?
And the last thing. Even though men can be familiars, women can be mages, the author shows us the "patriarchal" couple. All the familiars we meet and get to know at least a bit are women. So it seems to me that this story is somewhat a commentary on patriarchy. And it upsets me that the conclusion is that "women" want to be dominated, "men" want to dominate them, and this is the right way to be a powerful couple.
In short, I just didn't expect the story to take the traditional "patriarchal" path. I thought it would go in the opposite direction. I hadn't known beforehand that there would be BDSM, or I wouldn't have decided to read this series.
When I read the first book, I thought Gabriel and Vic would try to avoid the general dynamic (dominant/submissive) between mages and familiars. I based my assumptions on the fact that Gabriel wasn't comfortable with familiars' treatment; and that Vic wasn't ecstatic about her role as a familiar. I was disappointed when instead of trying to break all the conventions surrounding mage/familiar relationships, they decided to give into them (even if it only applies to their sexual relationships).
I'm not a fan of BDSM, but even with all the faults I see in it, the basis of BDSM relationships is informed consent. I don't think that Veronica could give that because of her nature as a familiar. Gabriel's path to a dominant figure also didn't sit right with me. He is a very caring and gentle person, and his enjoyment of dominance over the person who is influenced by society's expectations of familiars contradicts his identity for me. Why would he want to dominate a free soul like Veronica? I also didn't like that during their first session, everything concentrated around HIS pleasure. Gabriel could do whatever he wanted with Veronica to get the sexual release he craved; there weren't any boundaries between them. As I understand, this isn't the safe way to practice BDSM.
I didn't understand the idea of practicing BDSM as the only way to reach true power. First of all, why isn't regular sex enough in their case? They seemed to enjoy each other's company before their first session in the arcanium. I get that the general mage/familiar dynamic involves pain and violence as they can invoke extreme emotions (and produce magical power in return). But mages do that because they don't care about their familiars. Veronica and Gabriel care about each other; their emotions are already pretty strong, so why do they need to practice BDSM? Especially when Gabriel didn't want to do that in the first place. Second, there is another familiar, Narlis, who is old and not in her right mind. Should she be treated that way because this is the most practical way for a mage to be powerful? Does her nature demand others to treat her that way? Was she treated like that by her "master"?
And the last thing. Even though men can be familiars, women can be mages, the author shows us the "patriarchal" couple. All the familiars we meet and get to know at least a bit are women. So it seems to me that this story is somewhat a commentary on patriarchy. And it upsets me that the conclusion is that "women" want to be dominated, "men" want to dominate them, and this is the right way to be a powerful couple.
In short, I just didn't expect the story to take the traditional "patriarchal" path. I thought it would go in the opposite direction. I hadn't known beforehand that there would be BDSM, or I wouldn't have decided to read this series.
August 13, 2021
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I really liked the first volume of the series and I was eager to find our two heroes in this second volume. I must say that I had as good a time as with the previous one.
Gabriel and Veronica now find themselves having to cohabitate. Gabriel has dreams of grandeur and it’s quite difficult for Veronica who tries to bring him down to earth. She knows the consequences that could happen, but she’s also determined to raise House Phel from the ashes. Together, they will combine their powers to become greater and try to outdo the other Houses. Of course, it won’t be easy. Their path is fraught with obstacles and no one knows if they’ll be able to get up every time, but they’re sure to try!
I really enjoyed following the characters and seeing how they managed to live together. New characters come into play in this novel, some more likable than others and I’m curious to see what happens next. Some have hidden designs and I’m waiting to see what happens.
The novel is well paced and again, I am looking forward to finding out what happens next!
My English review
I really liked the first volume of the series and I was eager to find our two heroes in this second volume. I must say that I had as good a time as with the previous one.
Gabriel and Veronica now find themselves having to cohabitate. Gabriel has dreams of grandeur and it’s quite difficult for Veronica who tries to bring him down to earth. She knows the consequences that could happen, but she’s also determined to raise House Phel from the ashes. Together, they will combine their powers to become greater and try to outdo the other Houses. Of course, it won’t be easy. Their path is fraught with obstacles and no one knows if they’ll be able to get up every time, but they’re sure to try!
I really enjoyed following the characters and seeing how they managed to live together. New characters come into play in this novel, some more likable than others and I’m curious to see what happens next. Some have hidden designs and I’m waiting to see what happens.
The novel is well paced and again, I am looking forward to finding out what happens next!
September 28, 2021
Can't get enough of Dark Wizard Gabriel & His Bright Familiar Nick (Veronica) 💘 Already preordered Book 3 ➡️ Grey Magic❣️December 20th💋
Solemnly swear ➡️ I'll edit & post my actual review soon. SOONER.
Solemnly swear ➡️ I'll edit & post my actual review soon. SOONER.
September 14, 2021
I quite like both of the characters in Bright Familiar but this book was long and mostly uninteresting. There was a lot of descriptions about the castle and setting it up and apart from that.... hmmmm, nothing much else. A whole book. I found that it really, really dragged sadly. But I still like Nic and Gabriel. They just weren't enough to keep me interested this time around.
June 13, 2022
Bright Familiar begins immediately following the conclusion of the first book, Dark Wizard. Gabriel and Nic are in their chambers at House Phel following their bonding ritual. They have received missives demanding her return and begin to make lists of what needs to be done to return House Phel to its former glory. This is the middle book in a trilogy and should not be read as a standalone story.
Bright Familiar is a good middle-book story that allows readers to spend time inside the heads and hearts of the two main characters as both characters grow and develop. The magic and sexual nature of their bond evolves tremendously over the course of the book. I enjoyed really getting to know each and watching their core beliefs slowly morph to more common, new ones. Nic is really starting to believe Gabriel’s mantra that familiars don’t have to be slaves to their wizards. Gabriel is starting to realize that he can dominate over Nic without breaking her, and that his “dark sexual thoughts” aren’t bad ones.
While I enjoyed it overall, the story is slow moving. There is very little action or conflict, other than the pair constantly debating the nature of the Familiar-Wizard bond, the rules of the Convocation, and how things “should be.” While I found their debates and philosophizing interesting, it became repetitive after a while, and I really wanted them to move past it. However, with each discussion there are changes in both characters, so while I wanted fewer debates, they have value. I would have preferred a better balance of action and philosophy.
Being a middle story, the book ends a bit abruptly and with much left unfinished. I knew this would be the case going in, but it is always a little jarring. I don’t know if there would have been a better place to conclude the story, so I’m okay with it. However, with only one book left, I have to wonder how the author will conclude so many open plot points. Again, I wish there had been a bit more in this book.
I really liked that Nic and Gabriel seemed to be uncovering a very large conspiracy plot involving her father and House Eledrel. I also loved that the newly acquired junior wizards are already standing behind Gabriel. It’s a great set up for a stand off with the convocation.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating third person POVs of Gabriel and Veronica. Using a British accent, Ms. Balm narrates the entire story with a deepish and slightly raspy voice. Overall, her performance is soothing and easy to listen to. Giving a partially-voiced reading, she adjusts the dialogue for most characters, albeit just enough to know different characters are speaking. She tends to be a little higher pitched for females, and softer and lower for males. She adjusts appropriately for mood and emotion, especially with Nic. Now that I’m comfortable with her narrative style and voice, I sped up the playback to 1.4x about midway through the book.
Bright Familiar is an important addition to the Bonds of Magic series, giving listeners a lot of insight into the world and workings of Wizards and Familiars. While I felt it was a bit slow at times, the story kept me interested in the series and I look forward to seeing how it all comes together in the next book.
Ratings:
Story: B/B-
Narration: B+
Review copy received from author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Bright Familiar is a good middle-book story that allows readers to spend time inside the heads and hearts of the two main characters as both characters grow and develop. The magic and sexual nature of their bond evolves tremendously over the course of the book. I enjoyed really getting to know each and watching their core beliefs slowly morph to more common, new ones. Nic is really starting to believe Gabriel’s mantra that familiars don’t have to be slaves to their wizards. Gabriel is starting to realize that he can dominate over Nic without breaking her, and that his “dark sexual thoughts” aren’t bad ones.
While I enjoyed it overall, the story is slow moving. There is very little action or conflict, other than the pair constantly debating the nature of the Familiar-Wizard bond, the rules of the Convocation, and how things “should be.” While I found their debates and philosophizing interesting, it became repetitive after a while, and I really wanted them to move past it. However, with each discussion there are changes in both characters, so while I wanted fewer debates, they have value. I would have preferred a better balance of action and philosophy.
Being a middle story, the book ends a bit abruptly and with much left unfinished. I knew this would be the case going in, but it is always a little jarring. I don’t know if there would have been a better place to conclude the story, so I’m okay with it. However, with only one book left, I have to wonder how the author will conclude so many open plot points. Again, I wish there had been a bit more in this book.
I really liked that Nic and Gabriel seemed to be uncovering a very large conspiracy plot involving her father and House Eledrel. I also loved that the newly acquired junior wizards are already standing behind Gabriel. It’s a great set up for a stand off with the convocation.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating third person POVs of Gabriel and Veronica. Using a British accent, Ms. Balm narrates the entire story with a deepish and slightly raspy voice. Overall, her performance is soothing and easy to listen to. Giving a partially-voiced reading, she adjusts the dialogue for most characters, albeit just enough to know different characters are speaking. She tends to be a little higher pitched for females, and softer and lower for males. She adjusts appropriately for mood and emotion, especially with Nic. Now that I’m comfortable with her narrative style and voice, I sped up the playback to 1.4x about midway through the book.
Bright Familiar is an important addition to the Bonds of Magic series, giving listeners a lot of insight into the world and workings of Wizards and Familiars. While I felt it was a bit slow at times, the story kept me interested in the series and I look forward to seeing how it all comes together in the next book.
Ratings:
Story: B/B-
Narration: B+
Review copy received from author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
February 3, 2024
**4.0**
The first 25% of the book…awful. The author was trying to justify everything our characters were feeling. It became so repetitive I almost DNF. Then things got interesting. I wish the plot moved faster because this world is so twisted and the relationship between familiar and wizard is mind blowing. It’s hard for me to rate this because I loved the world, politics, and magic but needed more of it. The story was mostly about the relationship between our 2 main characters.
The romance in this is dark. Think Kushiels Dart (without the epic world building). Throw in Fifty Shades of Grey and Master of Crows. This is not your cute, fluffy, sweet romance. I was enthralled by some of the scenes and it was nice to read something different. It also made sense in the world they live in and how magic is created.
It’s been hard to find a fantasy series that has an intricate main plot and adult romance subplot. The last few I’ve read lean more towards romance. I understand why a lot of people love Sarah J. Mass because she’s can give you a great story/world along with a strong romance. This was great on the romance but lacking in the world building I need to really love a book.
The first 25% of the book…awful. The author was trying to justify everything our characters were feeling. It became so repetitive I almost DNF. Then things got interesting. I wish the plot moved faster because this world is so twisted and the relationship between familiar and wizard is mind blowing. It’s hard for me to rate this because I loved the world, politics, and magic but needed more of it. The story was mostly about the relationship between our 2 main characters.
The romance in this is dark. Think Kushiels Dart (without the epic world building). Throw in Fifty Shades of Grey and Master of Crows. This is not your cute, fluffy, sweet romance. I was enthralled by some of the scenes and it was nice to read something different. It also made sense in the world they live in and how magic is created.
It’s been hard to find a fantasy series that has an intricate main plot and adult romance subplot. The last few I’ve read lean more towards romance. I understand why a lot of people love Sarah J. Mass because she’s can give you a great story/world along with a strong romance. This was great on the romance but lacking in the world building I need to really love a book.
July 11, 2021
This hovered between a 3.5 and a four. Veronica (Nic) and Gabriel are settling into married life and into their bond as familiar and wizard. They ticked the powers that be off, though, when they determined on their unconventional way of doing things. This story highlights some of their triumphs and dangers as they set up The House of Phel and make new allies (and possible enemies).
The world building here is really interesting, as is the plot, but the romance is cheesy and cliched.
The world building here is really interesting, as is the plot, but the romance is cheesy and cliched.
February 26, 2023
fantasy house flipper lmao
March 11, 2022
Definitely no middle-book-slump in sight! I love Nic's practicality, and how it bumps up against Gabriel's idealism -- and how perfectly matched they are, as the stakes around them get ever-higher.
August 23, 2021
Gah. 3.5 stars? I don't know. I mean, I loved the growth of their relationship, the smutty smut stuff, the details of their magic system, BUT that's literally all that happened. There was barely a smidgen of danger and barely a peep from the big bad guys. They were there for what...a few pages maybe. It's all so tame. I sure hope the next book is more exciting.
July 7, 2021
Deep, DEEP sigh…once again, I need to process before I write my full review. But for now, this was lovely.
July 22, 2021
Bright Familiar is aptly named. This book is much lighter than Dark Wizard, the first book in Kennedy’s Bonds of Magic series. It’s almost a cabin romance in that it concentrates on Gabriel and Nic settling themselves in as a newly bonded couple at Gabriel’s home. Granted, there are some issues with their homestead: raising the mansion from its sunken state, meeting the family, setting up their wizardly support, dealing with problematic decisions that have hunters and other high wizarding houses chasing after them….
I was pleasantly surprised by how cozy this book was. There’s a strong, intimate focus on Gabriel and Nic throughout. Now that Nic has accepted her bonded status to Gabriel, she—in her ever-practical way—has moved on to wanting to build his estate and house, as well as deepen their magical connection. It’s Gabriel who struggles to cope with the demands of being a wizard, particularly his control over Nic as his familiar. Seeing him work consistently to build a more equitable relationship with Nic is one of the most wonderful things about Bright Familiar.
There’s also much more in the way of worldbuilding in this book. We learn more rules of this wizarding world as Nic teaches them to Gabriel, and creating their wizarding house creates so many possibilities, not only for obtaining strong allies but also for looming enemies. There’s less focus on the dangers to Nic and Gabriel at the start of this book, which was quite a relief after the build-up of tension in the second half of Dark Wizard.
But I loved every second I spent reading Bright Familiar. I felt like I knew this world so much better by the end, and I especially loved how Kennedy is establishing possibilities for a brighter future for the familiars of this wizarding realm. I’m so excited for the next book in this series—I want to read it right now and learn what happens with Nic and Gabriel next!
I was pleasantly surprised by how cozy this book was. There’s a strong, intimate focus on Gabriel and Nic throughout. Now that Nic has accepted her bonded status to Gabriel, she—in her ever-practical way—has moved on to wanting to build his estate and house, as well as deepen their magical connection. It’s Gabriel who struggles to cope with the demands of being a wizard, particularly his control over Nic as his familiar. Seeing him work consistently to build a more equitable relationship with Nic is one of the most wonderful things about Bright Familiar.
There’s also much more in the way of worldbuilding in this book. We learn more rules of this wizarding world as Nic teaches them to Gabriel, and creating their wizarding house creates so many possibilities, not only for obtaining strong allies but also for looming enemies. There’s less focus on the dangers to Nic and Gabriel at the start of this book, which was quite a relief after the build-up of tension in the second half of Dark Wizard.
But I loved every second I spent reading Bright Familiar. I felt like I knew this world so much better by the end, and I especially loved how Kennedy is establishing possibilities for a brighter future for the familiars of this wizarding realm. I’m so excited for the next book in this series—I want to read it right now and learn what happens with Nic and Gabriel next!
June 3, 2023
I was hoping it was going to be about equalizing the roles that they set out as a problem in book 1. But then this book turns around and is like “well, wizards just HAVE to be doms bc they’re wizards and familiars CRAVE being subs because that’s just their nature.” Honestly, it’s not more thought out than that.
Nic, the familiar, gets a lot of control of her life and isn’t treated like a slave. Happy for that. She becomes, like, the lady of the house running everything. And the kinky stuff only happens consensually, happy for that. But nothing about their messed up world order is subverted either….
Gabriel, the wizard, has to learn to be the “man of the house,” But at least he doesn’t like it? I dunno. I didn’t really get the character development in this book.
The other thing was, like, 80% of this book was about them setting up their house. Which isn’t exactly action packed for a fantasy series.
The world building is really cool. I enjoyed meeting the new wizards and learning about their different powers.
Let’s see…will Book 3 pull this series out of its tailspin?
Nic, the familiar, gets a lot of control of her life and isn’t treated like a slave. Happy for that. She becomes, like, the lady of the house running everything. And the kinky stuff only happens consensually, happy for that. But nothing about their messed up world order is subverted either….
Gabriel, the wizard, has to learn to be the “man of the house,” But at least he doesn’t like it? I dunno. I didn’t really get the character development in this book.
The other thing was, like, 80% of this book was about them setting up their house. Which isn’t exactly action packed for a fantasy series.
The world building is really cool. I enjoyed meeting the new wizards and learning about their different powers.
Let’s see…will Book 3 pull this series out of its tailspin?
September 22, 2021
“He made you cry, then and just now. You’re a fierce, proud woman, Lady Veronica Phel. Anyone who hurts you enough to draw tears deserves to die.”
Bright Familiar is the spellbinding second addition to Jeffe Kennedy’s captivating Bonds of Magic Series .
Lady Veronica Elal has been freed from her tower – and entered a life of servitude. It doesn’t matter that her wizard Master wishes to circumvent Convocation tradition and make their relationship equal, Nic prides herself on her practicality and that means not pretending her marriage is full of hearts and flowers.
Lord Gabriel Phel has come far again impossible odds and has managed to begin the process of reinstating his fallen house. He rescued Nic in a distant land, successfully bringing her home to House Phel, and despite her cynical stance on their chance of success, he’s certain they can defy their enemies and flourish together.
But the more Gabriel learns about the bonds between wizard and familiar and the finer points of wizardry, the more illicit fantasies plague him.
Although Nic has accepted her future as Gabriels wife and familiar, adjusting to her new life isn’t easy, particularly when Gabriel is determined to subvert the foundation of her world- starting with her father.
“Isn’t that how these things begin, though? You abandon a bit of integrity to survive the moment, exchange what’s right for another day, another hour of security, telling yourself you’ll make it up later, but by then you’re midway down a slippery slope, gaining momentum for the chasm below.”
Picking up where Dark Wizard left off, Bright Familiar was a delightfully entertaining novel and I loved getting to revisit the rich world that Kennedy has created and spend more time with these vivid and loveable characters.
<Bright Familiar is a largely character driven story and focusses on Gabriel and Nic adjusting to each other and finding their feet within their relationship as both husband and wife, and wizard and familiar while they work to rebuild the once great House Phel.
Since this is the second book in the series, I was expecting there to be a bit more of a focus on the overarching series plot and to see them start actively going up against the Convocation. That did seem to happen gradually throughout the book and most definitely started to get underway within the last couple of chapters but I was surprised there wasn’t more of a focus on it. Not that I’m complaining, I loved the time I was able to spend with Gabriel and Nic and found that the pacing of the story was extremely well done.
I’m honestly so fascinated by the development of Gabriel and Nic’s relationship during this book as they both try to find a middle ground with each other as well as balancing the expectations that come with their roles as wizard and familiar.
Nic has been raised within the Convocation and struggles to overturn a lifetime of those teachings and I’ve found her arc through the series so far, and this book in particular, to be so intriguing and well written. Throughout the book we get glimpses of Nic’s uncertainty and see that she finds Gabriel’s wish for them to be equal, despite what the Convocation believe, to be quite unsettling. Gabriel makes Nic question the very foundation of the world she lives in, and Jeffe Kennedy captures Nic’s unease and the emotional rollercoaster she experiences when faced with questioning everything she’s known so perfectly.
“You don’t mean that.”
She lifted her chin defiantly, eyes glittering with unshed tears. “I do mean it.”
“You’d rather be cruelly used than treated with respect and kindness,” he ground out.
Opening her mouth, she closed it again, but not before her lips wobbled. “I don’t know,” she finally said. “Maybe it’s that I’d know how to do that. I think that… if I were only a pet to you, then maybe it wouldn’t hurt so much when you despise me.”
I did find that the frequent arguments between Nic and Gabriel did get a bit frustrating. It seemed like a lot of the book was them having the same argument about Gabriel not wanting to use Nic’s magic or cross her boundaries & her explaining why he should or had to. Those things are of course a big part of the book & it’s necessary for Gabriel and Nic to work through and address those issues, but it did feel rather redundant and repetitive when they’d have the argument repeatedly throughout the book, but never really came to a resolution or seemed to make any headway most of the time.
I absolutely adore everything about Gabriel. How he’s not afraid to ask for help when he needs it and how completely dedicated he is to Nic and wants to ensure her happiness and safety.
“I am not fond of the Convocation’s way of reducing people to their useful roles. Our child will be important to me as more than an heir, and my concerns are for Nic, a person who already exists. How is she, how is my ignorance endangering her, and what is it that I need to know?”
Gabriel and Nic had fantastic chemistry in Dark Wizard , but this seems to be taken to the next level in Bright Familiar .
I loved getting to meet new characters and see Nic and Gabriel slowly start to gain some support and allies and I’m so excited get to know the new characters more and to find out what will happen next.
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July 16, 2021
Review courtesy of Romance Junkies
Lord Gabriel Phel is a wizard proficient in moon and water magic. He plans to keep his hard-won familiar from the Convocation. However, Gabriel discovers something unsettling about his nature. The two work tirelessly to find their wizard and familiar dynamic. Can Gabriel keep Veronica safe from the Convocation? Will he have to turn into a monster to defeat them?
Lady Veronica “Nic” Elal-Phel has surrendered to the inevitable. She puts all her efforts into re-establishing Gabriel’s house to its formal glory. Nic tries to guide him into understanding and accepting his wizardry nature. However, the Convocation threatens to destroy their hard work. Can Nic convince Gabriel to be the wizard he is meant to be? Or will her efforts be in vain?
Gabriel continues to amaze me. He is a man who is not afraid to be different. I admire how Gabriel balks at becoming like the other Convocation wizards. He refuses to go against his integrity. Gabriel hates the flaws in their society’s mentality that other wizards exploit for their own gain. What I love the most is how Gabriel and Nic’s bonding is not the normal wizard/familiar kind. Its uncharted waters requires them to learn as they go.
Nic has made the most progress. She is the perfect balance for Gabriel. Nic believes in his magical ability when he doubts it. I adore how Nic does not take advantage of Gabriel’s ignorance. She knows that he did not receive the same education she did, so she fills in the gaps in his wizardry education. What I love the most about Nic is how she warms up to Gabriel’s ideology, especially his stance on familiars. She is aware that the Convocation will find it profane; however, that does not stop Nic from influencing the wizards that flock to House Phel to share his ideals.
BRIGHT FAMILIAR is book two in Jeffe Kennedy’s fantasy romance series, BONDS OF MAGIC. I recommend reading the prior book to better understand the world, its magic system, and the characters. This story immediately picks up where DARK WIZARD, book one, leaves off. Gabriel and Nic’s wizard-and-familiar dynamic reminds me of a tamer side of BDSM. I generally steer clear of BDSM-type stories; however, I did not mind so much with this story.
BRIGHT FAMILIAR is a spellbinding tale of two people’s fight to overcome an antiquated society. I cannot wait to see how Gabriel and Nic will tackle the new challenges that await them!
Lord Gabriel Phel is a wizard proficient in moon and water magic. He plans to keep his hard-won familiar from the Convocation. However, Gabriel discovers something unsettling about his nature. The two work tirelessly to find their wizard and familiar dynamic. Can Gabriel keep Veronica safe from the Convocation? Will he have to turn into a monster to defeat them?
Lady Veronica “Nic” Elal-Phel has surrendered to the inevitable. She puts all her efforts into re-establishing Gabriel’s house to its formal glory. Nic tries to guide him into understanding and accepting his wizardry nature. However, the Convocation threatens to destroy their hard work. Can Nic convince Gabriel to be the wizard he is meant to be? Or will her efforts be in vain?
Gabriel continues to amaze me. He is a man who is not afraid to be different. I admire how Gabriel balks at becoming like the other Convocation wizards. He refuses to go against his integrity. Gabriel hates the flaws in their society’s mentality that other wizards exploit for their own gain. What I love the most is how Gabriel and Nic’s bonding is not the normal wizard/familiar kind. Its uncharted waters requires them to learn as they go.
Nic has made the most progress. She is the perfect balance for Gabriel. Nic believes in his magical ability when he doubts it. I adore how Nic does not take advantage of Gabriel’s ignorance. She knows that he did not receive the same education she did, so she fills in the gaps in his wizardry education. What I love the most about Nic is how she warms up to Gabriel’s ideology, especially his stance on familiars. She is aware that the Convocation will find it profane; however, that does not stop Nic from influencing the wizards that flock to House Phel to share his ideals.
BRIGHT FAMILIAR is book two in Jeffe Kennedy’s fantasy romance series, BONDS OF MAGIC. I recommend reading the prior book to better understand the world, its magic system, and the characters. This story immediately picks up where DARK WIZARD, book one, leaves off. Gabriel and Nic’s wizard-and-familiar dynamic reminds me of a tamer side of BDSM. I generally steer clear of BDSM-type stories; however, I did not mind so much with this story.
BRIGHT FAMILIAR is a spellbinding tale of two people’s fight to overcome an antiquated society. I cannot wait to see how Gabriel and Nic will tackle the new challenges that await them!
February 19, 2022
I just realized that it will take A LOT of books to cover their mission of rebelling against the Convocation. Book 3 is only about to come out next week.
I am aware that I should not have started this series yet. However, as soon as I started reading the first book, I knew that I couldn’t stop. Their endless list of crises can each have its own book, and I would still probably read them.
This is like BDSM with magic and crazy good banter. I cannot stress enough how much I love their dynamic as a couple. Their ability to communicate and fight/argue well is something I can only dream of.
The first half was of them in their own bubble. At around 60+ percent, other wizards started showing up and Gabriel had a full 360. He became so possessive and alpha male! It was a sight to behold.
Him reigning his anger at how Nic was being treated in his presence was a point in his favor since it made him seem like a typical High House wizard.
Gabriel is such a flexible character. Seeing him interact with other wizards is a confusing experience. Nic is like a dominant submissive (if this even makes sense), and I have gotten used to Gabriel constantly accommodating and coddling Nic that I forget he can also be supercilious, broody, and severe.
I know I previously complained that their world was incorrigible because of its draconic and unfair systems, but I have to admit that there is an appeal in the idea of arousal being their method of magic replenishment 😂
Also, there were so many interesting characters I am looking forward to know better. Jadren seems like a promising character. Anyway, the politics have finally arrived at their doorstep, and it will be quite difficult for the MC to get back to how things used to be.
I am aware that I should not have started this series yet. However, as soon as I started reading the first book, I knew that I couldn’t stop. Their endless list of crises can each have its own book, and I would still probably read them.
This is like BDSM with magic and crazy good banter. I cannot stress enough how much I love their dynamic as a couple. Their ability to communicate and fight/argue well is something I can only dream of.
The first half was of them in their own bubble. At around 60+ percent, other wizards started showing up and Gabriel had a full 360. He became so possessive and alpha male! It was a sight to behold.
Him reigning his anger at how Nic was being treated in his presence was a point in his favor since it made him seem like a typical High House wizard.
Gabriel is such a flexible character. Seeing him interact with other wizards is a confusing experience. Nic is like a dominant submissive (if this even makes sense), and I have gotten used to Gabriel constantly accommodating and coddling Nic that I forget he can also be supercilious, broody, and severe.
I know I previously complained that their world was incorrigible because of its draconic and unfair systems, but I have to admit that there is an appeal in the idea of arousal being their method of magic replenishment 😂
Also, there were so many interesting characters I am looking forward to know better. Jadren seems like a promising character. Anyway, the politics have finally arrived at their doorstep, and it will be quite difficult for the MC to get back to how things used to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
💛🖤 Bright Familiar Review 🖤💛
Thank you so much to Jeffe Kennedy for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Bright Familiar is a fantasy romance and book two in the Bonds of Magic series. As always, this will be as spoiler free as possible, so if this feels a little vague - that’s why. After the events at the end of book one, Gabriel and Nic are settling into their lives at House Phel. Now that they’re no longer on the run, they have to figure out how to make the most out of their new bond without bringing down the entire Convocation on their house
This was a fantastic read! Gabriel and Veronica are both strong characters and I enjoyed watching them learn how to work together. After the first book, it was good to see their communication and trust continue to develop. This is a really cool world and I enjoyed the magic system, lore and character crossovers with the other series in this world
Overall this was a solid five star read! I adore these characters and the journey they continued in this book! This book definitely contains some heavy topics so please check triggers if you’re sensitive. This book was a bit of an emotional slow burn but had great tension and spicy moments throughout, so overall three flames for spice
If you’re a fan of fantasy romance with strong characters, beautiful world building and detailed magical lore, then absolutely pick this one up! As this is a continuation of the story started in Dark Wizard, I’d recommend reading these in order.
Thank you so much to Jeffe Kennedy for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Bright Familiar is a fantasy romance and book two in the Bonds of Magic series. As always, this will be as spoiler free as possible, so if this feels a little vague - that’s why. After the events at the end of book one, Gabriel and Nic are settling into their lives at House Phel. Now that they’re no longer on the run, they have to figure out how to make the most out of their new bond without bringing down the entire Convocation on their house
This was a fantastic read! Gabriel and Veronica are both strong characters and I enjoyed watching them learn how to work together. After the first book, it was good to see their communication and trust continue to develop. This is a really cool world and I enjoyed the magic system, lore and character crossovers with the other series in this world
Overall this was a solid five star read! I adore these characters and the journey they continued in this book! This book definitely contains some heavy topics so please check triggers if you’re sensitive. This book was a bit of an emotional slow burn but had great tension and spicy moments throughout, so overall three flames for spice
If you’re a fan of fantasy romance with strong characters, beautiful world building and detailed magical lore, then absolutely pick this one up! As this is a continuation of the story started in Dark Wizard, I’d recommend reading these in order.
December 26, 2022
Book one leaves off with Veronica and Gabriel finally bonding - that's exactly where book two picks up.
While I enjoyed this read, I think it's just a bridge to what comes next.
We learn a lot about the push and pull between Nic and Gabriel. We see how they learn to compromise and adapt to one another. Gabriel is still far too perfect, but I did appreciate his flaws surfacing a bit more.
The laws and rules of the magic system are well developed and we're introduced to some new characters that I think may prove to be important in book three. But my main takeaway from this is that by page 166 this becomes a story about kinky dominant and submissive sex play. It's fully not necessary to the story as plenty of other magical relationships in this book are not dependent on sex. So I guess the author just was in a mood... she really wanted her book to be shelved as erotica? Idk. It felt a little OTT to me but whatever, the story in-between was still cute and I definitely want to know what happens next so-
Onward to book three!
While I enjoyed this read, I think it's just a bridge to what comes next.
We learn a lot about the push and pull between Nic and Gabriel. We see how they learn to compromise and adapt to one another. Gabriel is still far too perfect, but I did appreciate his flaws surfacing a bit more.
The laws and rules of the magic system are well developed and we're introduced to some new characters that I think may prove to be important in book three. But my main takeaway from this is that by page 166 this becomes a story about kinky dominant and submissive sex play. It's fully not necessary to the story as plenty of other magical relationships in this book are not dependent on sex. So I guess the author just was in a mood... she really wanted her book to be shelved as erotica? Idk. It felt a little OTT to me but whatever, the story in-between was still cute and I definitely want to know what happens next so-
Onward to book three!
October 25, 2022
Nic and Gabriel are still working toward a bond that would bring them a harmonious balance in their relationship and in combining their fractious magical powers in a productive tool. Since Lord Gabriel Phel is not a conventional Wizard and Lady Veronica, Nic, Elal is a very strong-willed Familiar determined to have a say in matters that will determine her future, progress in their personal relationship is a very slow undertaking. In addition to their numerous conflicts, this fast-paced drama swirls around them with trouble and deadly menace as hunters try to capture Nic, Convocation representatives seek them out for violating their strict rules and protocol, and other high level houses send spys to undermine and destroy their success. Thrilling and action-packed don't quite describe the constant assaults and challenges Nic and Gabriel face once they reach his House of Phel in the wetlands of Meresin. Don't Miss the Truly Great Read!!!!! Completely Amazing Stroy and Characters!!!!!
January 22, 2026
So, since this is a tight trilogy with a plot that directly carries, think I'll save my overall review for the last book. But I will say even when these two are stubborn/difficult, I loved them and their love. And the "I love you" moment is priceless❤️! Our girl Nic tells Gabriel he loves her mid make out because as his familiar, she can read him like a book. And Gabriel deadpans "Isn't the person feeling the feeling supposed to say it?" This, and the "You tutored me about politics, let me educate you on what you think is a swamp 🤣". Fuck her father, btw. Telling her via another political snake to "drink water" after she asked for the Elal grapes for wine in dowry, just😤. Gabriel saying "No father's love should be conditional" shows just how amazing he'll be with their baby. Speaking of: Nic finally acknowledges her pregnancy and happiness about it to Gabriel. His reaction? 🥹.
And don't you dare hurt Seely 🤬!
To be concluded...
And don't you dare hurt Seely 🤬!
To be concluded...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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