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A King's Watch Story #5
Fire Games
How to lose your shirt twice in one night
And your home…
Vicky had the birthday card sorted: Happy Birthday to my Embarrassing Uncle
And then Hannah orders her to Clerkswell to celebrate Conrad’s birthday in person. And if that wasn’t bad enough, Eseld Mowbray makes her an offer she can’t refuse. An offer that combines three things that Vicky hates:
A posh house, fancy dress and worst of all, the need to be herself and be on display. Can things get any worse?
Oh yes they can.
Find out how Vicky finds herself deep in debt to one of the biggest families in magick.
And your home…
Vicky had the birthday card sorted: Happy Birthday to my Embarrassing Uncle
And then Hannah orders her to Clerkswell to celebrate Conrad’s birthday in person. And if that wasn’t bad enough, Eseld Mowbray makes her an offer she can’t refuse. An offer that combines three things that Vicky hates:
A posh house, fancy dress and worst of all, the need to be herself and be on display. Can things get any worse?
Oh yes they can.
Find out how Vicky finds herself deep in debt to one of the biggest families in magick.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2021
125 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Mark Hayden
27 books285 followersAuthor also writes under Ruth Ward
Mark Hayden is the nom de guerre of Adrian Attwood. He lives in Westmorland with his wife, Anne.
Adrian has had a varied career working for a brewery, teaching English and being the Town Clerk in Carnforth. He is now a part-time writer and part-time assistant in Anne's craft projects.
He is also proud to be the Mad Unky to his Great Nieces & Great Nephew.
His current writing project is the King’s Watch series of urban fantasy novels, from 13th Witch all the way down to Zero Hour. If he can keep it up.
Mark Hayden is the nom de guerre of Adrian Attwood. He lives in Westmorland with his wife, Anne.
Adrian has had a varied career working for a brewery, teaching English and being the Town Clerk in Carnforth. He is now a part-time writer and part-time assistant in Anne's craft projects.
He is also proud to be the Mad Unky to his Great Nieces & Great Nephew.
His current writing project is the King’s Watch series of urban fantasy novels, from 13th Witch all the way down to Zero Hour. If he can keep it up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 16, 2021
Only one problem with these novellas, they are too short a book.
This was an excellent well written story about Vicky, doing what she does best.
It really show how much her character has evolved from the first book.
Highly recommended to all fantasy readers
This was an excellent well written story about Vicky, doing what she does best.
It really show how much her character has evolved from the first book.
Highly recommended to all fantasy readers
May 27, 2022
Best One Of The Novellas -So Far
I've said this in every review of these novellas of the King's Watch. I don't care for novellas. They tend to open up more questions, as well as leave many other questions unanswered. This in itself caused me to go with 3 stars, rather than 4.
As it is, the King's Watch Series is very complicated and complex at the best of times, and becomes very heavy-handed with the number of characters involved.
These novellas were presented as stand-alones. Not a chance would the average person have in trying to make heads or tails out of them, without the original series.
These last 2 novellas have also presented a lot of background that was left out of the original series. They've also provided spoilers, or clues, as to what could be contained in the next 2 of the series.
I will say this one gave me the most pleasure in reading. Part of that comes from holding Vicky as a fav amongst the main characters, and I think it has to do with her being more of the common folk, than of the elite, the rich, the special.
Definitely an interesting "side story."
I had actually stopped reading the series in an effort to get caught up on this novellas-starting with the 1st one to this one--just as I finished book 8. I feel comfortable in now returning to the actual series.
I've said this in every review of these novellas of the King's Watch. I don't care for novellas. They tend to open up more questions, as well as leave many other questions unanswered. This in itself caused me to go with 3 stars, rather than 4.
As it is, the King's Watch Series is very complicated and complex at the best of times, and becomes very heavy-handed with the number of characters involved.
These novellas were presented as stand-alones. Not a chance would the average person have in trying to make heads or tails out of them, without the original series.
These last 2 novellas have also presented a lot of background that was left out of the original series. They've also provided spoilers, or clues, as to what could be contained in the next 2 of the series.
I will say this one gave me the most pleasure in reading. Part of that comes from holding Vicky as a fav amongst the main characters, and I think it has to do with her being more of the common folk, than of the elite, the rich, the special.
Definitely an interesting "side story."
I had actually stopped reading the series in an effort to get caught up on this novellas-starting with the 1st one to this one--just as I finished book 8. I feel comfortable in now returning to the actual series.
May 27, 2023
2023 bk 184. Less mystery than previous novel and more paranormal/fantasy. I was glad to see Vicky back in a major role. After Conrad's sister presents her magic show, she is hired by Saffron's mother to perform at a posh party. Her performance is mixed up with betting games. Vicky is the poor relation to the party, but goes when Conrad asks her to just keep an eye on things. During the party gambling fever prevails and Vicky ends up betting enough that she could lose everything she has worked for in her life. A part of me thinks that GG set things up to get Vicky's services as a mage, which is the end result. Can Vicky confront her worst fears and even those she doesn't know she has in order to save her own home?
May 8, 2021
A good read this one. You will read that you don’t need to read these little novellas to enjoy the main series of books . This is true, but you should know just how much more you will piece together the relationships that the characters have in the main series . On its own it’s a good tale . The action that brings the story to a conclusion is quite complex and not at all easy to follow but you do get the feel and excitement from it. It also paves the way for the next main series book . I’ve read them all and A good read this one. You will read that you don’t need to read these little novellas to enjoy the main series of books . This is true but you should know just how much more you will piece together the relationships that the characters have in the main series . On its own it’s a good tale . The action that brings the story to a conclusion is complex and not easy to follow, but you get the feel and excitement from it. It also paves the way for the next main series book . I’ve read them all and recommend you read all the novellas and add to the experience and pleasure that these books give you .
July 12, 2021
You know it’s a good one when you wish you could just pop over for some tea
I was so disappointed when I came back to reality and realized I couldn’t just go have tea with Vicky. I also laughed at myself when I found myself saying, “that is so like Rachael.” All of these books are like putting on a warm robe and sitting in front of a fire with hot chocolate. I can’t wait to read the next.
I was so disappointed when I came back to reality and realized I couldn’t just go have tea with Vicky. I also laughed at myself when I found myself saying, “that is so like Rachael.” All of these books are like putting on a warm robe and sitting in front of a fire with hot chocolate. I can’t wait to read the next.
February 19, 2021
I hate getting to the end of these because I know I now have to wait for the next. I have read every one if the King's Watch stories since Christmas and the characters have become friends. I want to know what's going on to them all the time. One of the great series finds of books in a very long time. Thank you Mr Hayden
March 14, 2021
Conrad Bloody Clarke and Co are addictive
Magic, Mayhem, & Monsters that keep interfering in the Mundane world - a complete world within our world to enjoy and explore.
Loving this entire series, a fantastic set of spinoff stories that continue to keep me guessing.
Highly recommend ever book published thus far.
Magic, Mayhem, & Monsters that keep interfering in the Mundane world - a complete world within our world to enjoy and explore.
Loving this entire series, a fantastic set of spinoff stories that continue to keep me guessing.
Highly recommend ever book published thus far.
April 17, 2021
Vicky’s tale
I like Vicky, and this introduces us to her powers and her life. Oh the inconveniences of a disadvantaged background! Vicky feels that uniquely British social divisiveness inserts barbs of unhappiness, but she rises above them.
Sofia plays a background role, and its interesting to see how Sofia is progressing.
I like Vicky, and this introduces us to her powers and her life. Oh the inconveniences of a disadvantaged background! Vicky feels that uniquely British social divisiveness inserts barbs of unhappiness, but she rises above them.
Sofia plays a background role, and its interesting to see how Sofia is progressing.
May 23, 2021
Short but wonderful Kings Watch
At this point Fire Games is the latest King's Watch book and takes us much further into the KW universe than before. Its nice to go back to having Vicky as a main character and her forays into the wider world of magik give us a beautiful behind the scenes look at things that have only been hinted at in the main books. More please, much more!
At this point Fire Games is the latest King's Watch book and takes us much further into the KW universe than before. Its nice to go back to having Vicky as a main character and her forays into the wider world of magik give us a beautiful behind the scenes look at things that have only been hinted at in the main books. More please, much more!
February 2, 2023
Vickie gets a moment to shine and she does.
These stories have been quite enjoyable and this is one of the best. I would like to attend a fire game. I’m not quite sure how the whole thing works but I am intrigued. Bravo to Mark Hayden for keeping me absorbed and entertained for 32 days straight with a few more days ahead.
These stories have been quite enjoyable and this is one of the best. I would like to attend a fire game. I’m not quite sure how the whole thing works but I am intrigued. Bravo to Mark Hayden for keeping me absorbed and entertained for 32 days straight with a few more days ahead.
February 16, 2021
An excellent addition to the Kings Watch series
For anyone who wanted to know more about Vicky and see her in action you will enjoy this book. It’s a great addition to the Kings Watch short stories and I can’t wait for the next.
For anyone who wanted to know more about Vicky and see her in action you will enjoy this book. It’s a great addition to the Kings Watch short stories and I can’t wait for the next.
February 26, 2021
Funny
Another great book in the series. Vicky is one of my favourite characters and it's good to fill in the gaps. I think I have caught up on the series now 😥 and will have to be patient and wait for the next one, but it will be worth the wait 😁
Another great book in the series. Vicky is one of my favourite characters and it's good to fill in the gaps. I think I have caught up on the series now 😥 and will have to be patient and wait for the next one, but it will be worth the wait 😁
March 14, 2021
What a fabulous book and incredible series.
Do you need a change from kids fighting adults or post apocalyptic worlds or swords and sorcery? This might be the most interesting series since the Garret files . I strongly suggest you read at least three times to really enjoy it.
Do you need a change from kids fighting adults or post apocalyptic worlds or swords and sorcery? This might be the most interesting series since the Garret files . I strongly suggest you read at least three times to really enjoy it.
March 17, 2021
I love this series, and the author really has an ear for the geordie accent/vocabulary. I can hear Vickie in my head, and he has the voice so accurately. The way we geordies end every other sentence with "man", the bravado.
Vickie seems all too real, and that's the mark of good writing
Vickie seems all too real, and that's the mark of good writing
March 31, 2021
Another Superb Short Story
Love this series & the novellas are always a good read between the main books. A lot of thought in this story with a surprising twist at the end.
Excellent
Love this series & the novellas are always a good read between the main books. A lot of thought in this story with a surprising twist at the end.
Excellent
June 22, 2021
Favourite King's Watch Captain
I missed Vicky! I really love her down to earth, funny and cheeky Geordie humour. Vicky and Conrad are a dream team duo, but it was lovely to see her solo. A great tale following my favourite Watch Captain
I missed Vicky! I really love her down to earth, funny and cheeky Geordie humour. Vicky and Conrad are a dream team duo, but it was lovely to see her solo. A great tale following my favourite Watch Captain
September 5, 2021
Marked as DNF
I have read and enjoyed others in this series but unfortunately I could not get into this episode. I was at 36% and really was none the wiser as to where the story was going so I gave up.
I have read and enjoyed others in this series but unfortunately I could not get into this episode. I was at 36% and really was none the wiser as to where the story was going so I gave up.
December 30, 2021
A quick read. Great dip into Vicky’s life
A status update on both Vicky and Saffron reminding you of a few earlier interludes. Creating new allies who knows where they will feature later. I like how the books keep you aligned with the ‘story’ extras.
A status update on both Vicky and Saffron reminding you of a few earlier interludes. Creating new allies who knows where they will feature later. I like how the books keep you aligned with the ‘story’ extras.
February 15, 2021
MARVELOUS!!!
THIS NIVELLA WAS WONDERFUL AND I CANNIT WAIT FOR FIVE LEAF CLOVER! REASD THIS NOVELLA, SUPERB ADDITION TO THE SERIES
THIS NIVELLA WAS WONDERFUL AND I CANNIT WAIT FOR FIVE LEAF CLOVER! REASD THIS NOVELLA, SUPERB ADDITION TO THE SERIES
February 17, 2021
So so
I usually love this series, but I could not bring myself to care about any of the characters in this short story. Looking forward to the next full length novel.
I usually love this series, but I could not bring myself to care about any of the characters in this short story. Looking forward to the next full length novel.
February 19, 2021
Fae dust
Have read all books, they are like fae dust. I am an addict and want more. Can't wait for next.
Have read all books, they are like fae dust. I am an addict and want more. Can't wait for next.
March 17, 2021
Vicky Vicky Vicky
This was the best novella so far. I adore Vicky..Julius has promise too !!
Cant wait for the next installment
This was the best novella so far. I adore Vicky..Julius has promise too !!
Cant wait for the next installment
March 18, 2021
Enjoyably confusing
Glad to have a Kings Watch novella to read but did find the plot confusing and did not really understand the reason why the gambling part was important
Glad to have a Kings Watch novella to read but did find the plot confusing and did not really understand the reason why the gambling part was important
March 24, 2021
All Vicky
This was probably my favorite of the offshoot stories. It was nice having Vicky all to myself - if that makes sense.
This was probably my favorite of the offshoot stories. It was nice having Vicky all to myself - if that makes sense.
April 10, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed
May 21, 2021
Really enjoyed Vicky's recounting of the Fire Games events.
May 27, 2021
Just finished this, i do like these Novelas but there always feels like there is more.
July 30, 2021
Vickys ' story
I like Vicky and this short novel was a good read .I have always liked tales from the legends of countries and this is modern and ancient. Right up my ally
I like Vicky and this short novel was a good read .I have always liked tales from the legends of countries and this is modern and ancient. Right up my ally
September 7, 2021
More Vicky Please!
A great read following one of my favourites from the King’s Watch. It was a wee bit of a detour from the main arc of the stories, but still a fun trip.
A great read following one of my favourites from the King’s Watch. It was a wee bit of a detour from the main arc of the stories, but still a fun trip.
June 30, 2022
A good novella in the series
This was a good novella in the series. The plot line that Vicky deals with is well written and thought out. This helps develop Vicky as a character.
This was a good novella in the series. The plot line that Vicky deals with is well written and thought out. This helps develop Vicky as a character.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews