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Spellbound
A Spell to Unbind
In the first novel of NYT’s bestselling author Victoria Laurie’s Spellbound series, Esmé Bellerose’s search for a magical trinket in the mean streets near D.C. might be the difference between getting hired or actually set on fire
As a professional thief, Esmé Bellerose’s daylong job interview was going well: She’d come through most of it with only a black eye, bloody lip, broken wrist, a few cracked ribs, and talon marks from a ruby-throated dragon—but at least she wasn’t missing any pieces. And if she could only survive until the five o’clock hour, she’d land the job that was every mystic thief’s dream: employment at SPL Inc.
But the head of SPL, Elric Ostergaard, has other plans, and he’s put one additional task on Esmé’s job application, which must be completed before he’ll hire her. Namely, Elric wants the famed Fabergé egg, created for the last tsarina but stolen away by Russian mystic Grigori Rasputin. The magically infused egg has lifesaving properties, and it’s worth a king’s ransom.
For Esmé, accepting the task is easy; finding the egg after Grigori has been brutally murdered while also being forced to mentor a bullheaded mystic detective in the middle of a family squabble is the trickier part. And things just seem to get more complicated from there. But Esmé has little choice. Either she brings Elric the egg or she’ll end up as dragon kibble.
As a professional thief, Esmé Bellerose’s daylong job interview was going well: She’d come through most of it with only a black eye, bloody lip, broken wrist, a few cracked ribs, and talon marks from a ruby-throated dragon—but at least she wasn’t missing any pieces. And if she could only survive until the five o’clock hour, she’d land the job that was every mystic thief’s dream: employment at SPL Inc.
But the head of SPL, Elric Ostergaard, has other plans, and he’s put one additional task on Esmé’s job application, which must be completed before he’ll hire her. Namely, Elric wants the famed Fabergé egg, created for the last tsarina but stolen away by Russian mystic Grigori Rasputin. The magically infused egg has lifesaving properties, and it’s worth a king’s ransom.
For Esmé, accepting the task is easy; finding the egg after Grigori has been brutally murdered while also being forced to mentor a bullheaded mystic detective in the middle of a family squabble is the trickier part. And things just seem to get more complicated from there. But Esmé has little choice. Either she brings Elric the egg or she’ll end up as dragon kibble.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2021
49 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Laurie
53 books3,151 followersVictoria Laurie is the New York Times bestselling author of 32 books and counting. Over the past 16 years Victoria has created several series and a few stand-alone novels. Her mystery series include: The Psychic Eye Mysteries, The Life Coach Mysteries, and The Ghost Hunter Mysteries. She's also the author of two YA books, When and Forever Again, as well as a middle-grade series called The Oracles of Delphi Keep.
Currently, Victoria is working on the 17th book in both the Psychic Eye Mysteries and the 3rd book in the Life Coach Mysteries, along with also working to produce a brand NEW series called Spellbound set for release winter/spring 2020.
Victoria loves to connect with her fans, and you can find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Victo...
Currently, Victoria is working on the 17th book in both the Psychic Eye Mysteries and the 3rd book in the Life Coach Mysteries, along with also working to produce a brand NEW series called Spellbound set for release winter/spring 2020.
Victoria loves to connect with her fans, and you can find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Victo...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 2, 2021
Victoria Laurie has outdone herself this time. She has brought us a cast of new characters in the first installment of her latest series, which is absolutely magical—literally and figuratively. Esme is a strong, fierce, badass protagonist (as per usual for Laurie’s women leads) who inspires and enthralls. I won’t repeat the story summary here, but I did want to add my 2 cents to what certainly will be a barrage of excellent reviews. For real, just read this, y’all, and recommend it to all of your friends.
March 28, 2021
She's done it again!
Oh, that Victoria Laurie. Of course I got the book - the first of a new series - within its first few days on the market. I'm insanely busy with work and didn't have time to binge read it, as I typically do with Ms. Laurie's books. I told myself that I would just read a bit a time.
Silly, silly me.
As usual, Ms. Laurie grabbed me from the get-go and didn't let go. As though under some charm, I simply couldn't keep myself from turning pages.
The characters are interesting and well developed. Flawed and complex, all but the most evidently evil among them inspired a sense of empathy. I ended up rooting even for those whom I'd wanted to smack for most of the ride.
The final pages left me breathless, my heart beating wildly, and definitely wanting more.
A hit! A palpable hit!
I myself may need a spell to unbind!
Oh, that Victoria Laurie. Of course I got the book - the first of a new series - within its first few days on the market. I'm insanely busy with work and didn't have time to binge read it, as I typically do with Ms. Laurie's books. I told myself that I would just read a bit a time.
Silly, silly me.
As usual, Ms. Laurie grabbed me from the get-go and didn't let go. As though under some charm, I simply couldn't keep myself from turning pages.
The characters are interesting and well developed. Flawed and complex, all but the most evidently evil among them inspired a sense of empathy. I ended up rooting even for those whom I'd wanted to smack for most of the ride.
The final pages left me breathless, my heart beating wildly, and definitely wanting more.
A hit! A palpable hit!
I myself may need a spell to unbind!
March 27, 2021
AWESOME!!!
I already loved Victoria's books and this one did went to a whole new level! She added her own spin to an urban fantasy novel. It is her Best. Book. Ever!!! A masterpiece!!! She enters a whole new genre of storytelling and she hits it of the park!! I am totally mixing metaphors because I am so excited! This book is raw and real and I CANNOT WAIT for the next one!!! What a ride!!!
If you read Ilona Andrews, Jennifer Estep, Seanan McGuire (October Day Series), Shannon Meyer, Patricia Briggs, Devon Monk, amongst others... you WANT to read this book!!!
I already loved Victoria's books and this one did went to a whole new level! She added her own spin to an urban fantasy novel. It is her Best. Book. Ever!!! A masterpiece!!! She enters a whole new genre of storytelling and she hits it of the park!! I am totally mixing metaphors because I am so excited! This book is raw and real and I CANNOT WAIT for the next one!!! What a ride!!!
If you read Ilona Andrews, Jennifer Estep, Seanan McGuire (October Day Series), Shannon Meyer, Patricia Briggs, Devon Monk, amongst others... you WANT to read this book!!!
May 8, 2023
4.5 stars This was great from start to finish!!! Magic infused adventure that takes you on a ride through the lives of Esme, Dex, Finn, Gideon and her phoenix. Esme is seeking the hag who cursed her and that means seeking employment with SPL. The job interview almost kills her, but the job itself, recovering a dragon’s egg, just might. Racing from one danger zone to the other, Esme is determined to free herself from her curse and live free. This book was great and sad there’s no book 2 yet, Esme is a complex character who wants the curse removed so she could love someone, hopefully Dex, for real. She courageous, loyal, snarky, deadly, and generous.
March 3, 2024
3 or maybe 3.5 stars. Although I enjoyed this book, and I totally enjoy this genre, there were so many parts that (to me) were so preposterous as to be ridiculous. If it weren’t for that, I’d have upped the rating to a 4.
May 30, 2023
This kept me hanging on to every word with the action and intricacies. The dog, oh, the dog! I'm so glad there are more in this series.
April 6, 2021
I have read almost everything this writer has written, and I love how she writes such strong female characters. This new entry is no exception. She has created a whole new realm with this book, something a bit of a departure from her other series, but it is a winner. I was riveted from the very onset, and have to admit to now having a bit of a book hangover. It is one of those you want to read quickly because you want to know what is going to happen, but do not want it to end because then you have to say goodbye to a fabulous story.
The blurb says it all for what the book is about, and this is going to be the start of a new series. However, it reads as a stand alone, but it is so good, I hope it continues.
Highly recommend for fans of the author, as well as those who love urban fantasy.
The blurb says it all for what the book is about, and this is going to be the start of a new series. However, it reads as a stand alone, but it is so good, I hope it continues.
Highly recommend for fans of the author, as well as those who love urban fantasy.
April 6, 2021
What a great book! It had magic, it had mystery... and murder! My favorite combo! Throw in a sassy thief, some hunky guys, and a sweet dog... and you've got a wonderful read. Victoria kept me guessing through the entire book. Well done for the first in the series and I can't wait for another one!!
February 17, 2023
An action packed adventure
This book was an action packed adventure from start to finish. It’s a unique world, unlike any you have read about before. It has a unique line of characters called mystics. These mystic seem to be kind of like magicians. these magicians seek out, trinkets that holds magical capabilities.
The author did an excellent job, laying out the story. She created an unusual world within a normal world. She mixed in some old stories from folklore, like knights of the round table, and Greek Gods.
The story takes off from the very first page with our main character Esme’ on a quest to join the SPL, Inc. She has test with finding a golden egg with the power to bring the dead back to life. As the story goes on, we learn of several secrets that she keeps close to her heart. Secrets she would die to keep.
This book has a lot of danger And adventure. It is an adrenaline rush of emotion throughout. The book will draw you in and hold your attention with every new character introduced. It is a page turner, and nail-biting story.
It is not a cliffhanger yet I can’t wait to find out what is in store next for our main character.
This book was an action packed adventure from start to finish. It’s a unique world, unlike any you have read about before. It has a unique line of characters called mystics. These mystic seem to be kind of like magicians. these magicians seek out, trinkets that holds magical capabilities.
The author did an excellent job, laying out the story. She created an unusual world within a normal world. She mixed in some old stories from folklore, like knights of the round table, and Greek Gods.
The story takes off from the very first page with our main character Esme’ on a quest to join the SPL, Inc. She has test with finding a golden egg with the power to bring the dead back to life. As the story goes on, we learn of several secrets that she keeps close to her heart. Secrets she would die to keep.
This book has a lot of danger And adventure. It is an adrenaline rush of emotion throughout. The book will draw you in and hold your attention with every new character introduced. It is a page turner, and nail-biting story.
It is not a cliffhanger yet I can’t wait to find out what is in store next for our main character.
August 4, 2023
This book was a wild ride. Who is she gonna fall in love with? Her partner? Oh the new cop? Oh the criminal brother? I felt like I got Uno Reversed 4 times during the first 30% of this, and I was here for it.
The "binding" was interesting and I wish we got more of a backstory about that, but my assumption is it'll get explained deeper in future books, HOWEVER, it doesn't look like Victoria Laurie has any plans to continue this series anytime soon. This book was written in 2021 and there isn't even a sequel announced on Goodreads so...RIP to me.
The writing in this was super fun though. I loved the banter and it makes me want to dig through VL's catalog because this is the first thing I've ever read from her, but she's got quite a few other books.
I liked the ties to the Romanov's and how it's current day DC but there's magic under the surface. There's crime lords and gangs. Everyone's after something, and everyone's against each other - even spouses.
And there's a dog. A perfect, loyal dog. #blessed
Burned through this in a day while I worked and ran errands. Upset I'm not seeing a sequel anytime soon (if ever).
The "binding" was interesting and I wish we got more of a backstory about that, but my assumption is it'll get explained deeper in future books, HOWEVER, it doesn't look like Victoria Laurie has any plans to continue this series anytime soon. This book was written in 2021 and there isn't even a sequel announced on Goodreads so...RIP to me.
The writing in this was super fun though. I loved the banter and it makes me want to dig through VL's catalog because this is the first thing I've ever read from her, but she's got quite a few other books.
I liked the ties to the Romanov's and how it's current day DC but there's magic under the surface. There's crime lords and gangs. Everyone's after something, and everyone's against each other - even spouses.
And there's a dog. A perfect, loyal dog. #blessed
Burned through this in a day while I worked and ran errands. Upset I'm not seeing a sequel anytime soon (if ever).
March 30, 2021
Wow!!! Victoria Laurie's latest release is the bomdiggity!
I wasn't sure what to expect, as I had tried to avoid any spoilers prior to reading (including reading any synopsis), and I was blown away by how incredible this series is! I can't wait for book 2, and 3...and 4...etc.
This is not your typical Victoria Laurie book, and I love that she has delved into this new world! And what an amazing world it is!!! Often when reading a book with a magic system that is unfamiliar, it takes a while to understand how it all works or it's all explained at once and is overwhelming, but Victoria's world-building is perfect! Just when I would start to think "hmm, I wonder how that works?" She'd go into a scene where she explained just what I was curious about!!! (I'd be more detailed here, but.... Spoilers!!!)
I will be pre-ordering the next book as soon as I can!
I wasn't sure what to expect, as I had tried to avoid any spoilers prior to reading (including reading any synopsis), and I was blown away by how incredible this series is! I can't wait for book 2, and 3...and 4...etc.
This is not your typical Victoria Laurie book, and I love that she has delved into this new world! And what an amazing world it is!!! Often when reading a book with a magic system that is unfamiliar, it takes a while to understand how it all works or it's all explained at once and is overwhelming, but Victoria's world-building is perfect! Just when I would start to think "hmm, I wonder how that works?" She'd go into a scene where she explained just what I was curious about!!! (I'd be more detailed here, but.... Spoilers!!!)
I will be pre-ordering the next book as soon as I can!
April 30, 2021
Full disclosure: this book is my first of this type of fantasy, so I didn’t know what to expect. I am, however, a fan of Ms Laurie’s Psychic Eye series, so I thought I’d give it a try.
3.5 stars. First in a series, there was a lot to follow. Many characters, different types of magical power, lots of action - much more than the cozy mysteries I’m used to. I found myself having to re-read many sections just to remind myself who everyone was, and pick up forgotten clues as to the story line. More violence than I really like.
That said, I have a feeling that people who are familiar with this genre will like this book. I will definitely read the remaining two books in the series because I want to know how the events of the first book play out.
3.5 stars. First in a series, there was a lot to follow. Many characters, different types of magical power, lots of action - much more than the cozy mysteries I’m used to. I found myself having to re-read many sections just to remind myself who everyone was, and pick up forgotten clues as to the story line. More violence than I really like.
That said, I have a feeling that people who are familiar with this genre will like this book. I will definitely read the remaining two books in the series because I want to know how the events of the first book play out.
July 27, 2021
This started out well, but quickly became far too convoluted with - I assume - side stories that may or may not have been relevant to the main plot.
I may just be too impatient to wade through what feels like extraneous, unconnected detail to get to the part where it all connects. I was totally into the main storyline that the book dives right into at the start of the book, but then we wandered off into these side-things and I kept wanding off mentally from the book. That's always a sign that a book just isn't a fit for me.
I tried to give this a chance to pull me back in, but it just didn't happen, so this is going back to the library so someone who will enjoy it more than I did can give it a try, and I'm moving on to the next audiobook on my list.
I may just be too impatient to wade through what feels like extraneous, unconnected detail to get to the part where it all connects. I was totally into the main storyline that the book dives right into at the start of the book, but then we wandered off into these side-things and I kept wanding off mentally from the book. That's always a sign that a book just isn't a fit for me.
I tried to give this a chance to pull me back in, but it just didn't happen, so this is going back to the library so someone who will enjoy it more than I did can give it a try, and I'm moving on to the next audiobook on my list.
December 21, 2024
A book with a pick me pick me! Protagonist that’s whole life’s purpose is to find a man to love her back. Seriously that’s the plot. She wants to remove a curse that makes her fall in love with bad boys who who’ll never love her back, and all the good boys she sidelines, friendzones, or chests on with the bad boys for. She’s so desperate to be loved that heartbreak has caused her to try to off herself 4 times, with only her super magical dog has saved her from actually dying.
Speaking of this dog, the other plot is trying to find a dragon egg that brings people back to life but she has a dog do that so why doesn’t she give the big bad boy her dog to save her life? Hmmm. Seems like it would’ve saved her broken bones and life.
Speaking of this dog, the other plot is trying to find a dragon egg that brings people back to life but she has a dog do that so why doesn’t she give the big bad boy her dog to save her life? Hmmm. Seems like it would’ve saved her broken bones and life.
April 5, 2021
This book started SLOW! There was so much description and so little action I seriously considered not reading on. But I have read Laurie and I kept hoping it would get better. It did. Perhaps have a prequel book where she actually accomplishes the tasks of her employment, instead of just telling us about it, would have been better. Once she actually gets out of her head and starts doing something the book was fast paced and fun. Twins was interesting, and once I was in the world I found it also interesting. I wasn't sure I liked Esme. When she was torturing a source I questioned whether or not I could cheer her on. At this point, I'm looking forward to the next book.
November 6, 2023
I read this as an audiobook. At first I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy this novel or not, but it picked up speed and ended up being quite enjoyable. It's a well-woven tale involving Esme, a thief, and her journey to find a stable place in the world, although it's going to involve a great deal of mayhem to get there. The baddies are very bad, perhaps a little too bad since we're all the hero of our own story. But the portrayal is effective.
Paranormal beings for those who enjoy them. Well developed characters. A good narrator.
Paranormal beings for those who enjoy them. Well developed characters. A good narrator.
July 1, 2021
Geez, it sounds mean to say this, but I (selfishly, obv) hope Ms. Laurie isn’t taking time away from writing to do things like eating, nail clipping, running to Walmart. I guess it smacks of slavery—so, um, BAD- to trinket-leash her to her type writer til the next 4 books get written? Yeah. That sounds Slytherin. Sigh.
This book was a fun read, but I wish I’d waited to read it til the entire series was complete. The waiting between books is taffy-time.
Well done, Victoria Laurie!
This book was a fun read, but I wish I’d waited to read it til the entire series was complete. The waiting between books is taffy-time.
Well done, Victoria Laurie!
July 30, 2021
Victoria Laurie delivers, as always. A Spell to Unbind is an excellent read with compelling characters and a story that twists and turns all the way to the end. There is rather a lot of world building in this one, though that is to be expected from the first novel in a series, especially a first fantasy novel. Every character really draws you in from the start, and once you’ve started, you won’t put it down until you’re done! Well done, Victoria; I cannot wait until the next one!
November 26, 2021
Exciting times
I'm excited about this new series by Victoria Laurie . I didn't realize I had reached the end until I couldn't turn any more pages(ebook) and looked down and it said 100%! Lots of action and even more magic and magical objects . Now the wait begins for the next book which can't be soon enough. Betrayal, love for friends, mysteries, loyalty and a smart heroine made this a wonderful story.
I'm excited about this new series by Victoria Laurie . I didn't realize I had reached the end until I couldn't turn any more pages(ebook) and looked down and it said 100%! Lots of action and even more magic and magical objects . Now the wait begins for the next book which can't be soon enough. Betrayal, love for friends, mysteries, loyalty and a smart heroine made this a wonderful story.
September 19, 2024
This is more like 3.5 stars. This story took a lot to set up. The trinkets, the rules, the characters, etc. I don’t usually read fantasy stuff and this is a good example of why. I ended up liking the story but walked away wondering why the MC doesn’t understand that she has the phoenix and the sword and how powerful that makes her, but maybe that’s to come?
Regardless, good story, no graphic sex scenes, I like the author. 3.5 stars
Regardless, good story, no graphic sex scenes, I like the author. 3.5 stars
April 16, 2021
Very different from other works, yet still amazing!
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one in the series! Very interesting world crafted with detailed rules yet existing alongside our own. The complex characters were engaging and I felt completely immersed in the storyline. Definitely would recommend for a wild ride!
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one in the series! Very interesting world crafted with detailed rules yet existing alongside our own. The complex characters were engaging and I felt completely immersed in the storyline. Definitely would recommend for a wild ride!
April 25, 2021
I loved it! This author is one of my favorites and I'm so excited that she's started this Urban Fantasy series! Actually she released the first half of this as a weekly chapter serial as a gift to her readers during the early days of the pandemic quarantine. I was hooked then. It's magic how the author places small clues that later turn into huge plot twists. Excellent book.
May 18, 2021
Spellbound
I am always spellbound reading Victoria Laurie’s works and this time was no different. Her imagery and use of words is consistently on target. Her imagination is boundless, thank goodness, and we are lucky to benefit from it. This latest one is a great read . Try it you’ll love it!
I am always spellbound reading Victoria Laurie’s works and this time was no different. Her imagery and use of words is consistently on target. Her imagination is boundless, thank goodness, and we are lucky to benefit from it. This latest one is a great read . Try it you’ll love it!
June 19, 2021
Slow to draw you in then Wham
It has been a long time since the spell of wording had me gripped, I was like a fish on a hook, slowly slowly I was reeled in then dropped into the keep net saved for the next casting. Call me emotionally starved, I have a strong dislike to bodice ripping and there was some. However the ending was the saviour book two please.
It has been a long time since the spell of wording had me gripped, I was like a fish on a hook, slowly slowly I was reeled in then dropped into the keep net saved for the next casting. Call me emotionally starved, I have a strong dislike to bodice ripping and there was some. However the ending was the saviour book two please.
March 25, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! Adventure, twists, a kickass heroine, and some hot men! Victoria brings this magic world to life. I was on the edge of my seat, and could not put the book down. So be ready to lose sleep! I want more!
March 29, 2021
Fantastic start to a new series
I'm already waiting for the next one in the series! Laurie has hooked me once again! Loving this new world she has created and eager to see where the series goes.
I'm already waiting for the next one in the series! Laurie has hooked me once again! Loving this new world she has created and eager to see where the series goes.
April 6, 2021
Great new book
Did not disappoint. It was a great new series can’t wait for the next book to arrive. As always this author keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the whole story. I love the new characters and I’m looking forward to many more books.
Did not disappoint. It was a great new series can’t wait for the next book to arrive. As always this author keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the whole story. I love the new characters and I’m looking forward to many more books.
April 29, 2021
Wow, just enthralling story. Very different from her cozy mysteries, which are cute and fun. This was grittier than her other books. It read like a blockbuster movie. I cannot wait for more in this series!
April 29, 2021
GREAT NEW STORY BY MY FAVORITE AUTHOR!!! While it's an extreme departure from her usually stories, this is a fun and exciting new series for Victoria. I can't WAIT for the second one!! Oh, and the lead character is a Bad. Ass. 👍
May 3, 2021
Fascinating read
I honestly don’t normally like mystic stories. But a chapter in, I was hooked. Esme is a complicated and compelling character, as is Finn. I can’t wait for the next book!
I honestly don’t normally like mystic stories. But a chapter in, I was hooked. Esme is a complicated and compelling character, as is Finn. I can’t wait for the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews