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Mages & Mayhem #1
That Mafioso Magic
Private detective, Adrian Elias, knows what trouble looks like, and ruthless mobster and lion shifter, Sage Tamir, was just that with a capital T. On top of smelling like heaven, the man has the face of an angel, with a body made for unbridled sin. A combination Adrian finds very hard to resist.
Unfortunately, someone is trying to kill Sage and they’re using magic to do it. Sage usually takes these types of matters into his own hands, but this time, he’s out of his league. He believes the only person who can help him is the down-on-his-luck detective. Problem is, Adrian doesn't want to take his case because he feels it may be too dangerous. Never mind the volcanic-level attraction they seem to share for each other raising the stakes. Magic and mayhem awaits.
Reader Advisory: 18 and older. Strong adult situations and language. A sarcastic PI and a no-nonsense mobster will keep you turning the pages way past your bedtime. Best order that pizza, because once you start this book, you won’t want to stop.
Unfortunately, someone is trying to kill Sage and they’re using magic to do it. Sage usually takes these types of matters into his own hands, but this time, he’s out of his league. He believes the only person who can help him is the down-on-his-luck detective. Problem is, Adrian doesn't want to take his case because he feels it may be too dangerous. Never mind the volcanic-level attraction they seem to share for each other raising the stakes. Magic and mayhem awaits.
Reader Advisory: 18 and older. Strong adult situations and language. A sarcastic PI and a no-nonsense mobster will keep you turning the pages way past your bedtime. Best order that pizza, because once you start this book, you won’t want to stop.
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Published July 8, 2021
214 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Bella
94 books1,079 followersAbout The Maniac Who Wrote These Books
I'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction in various genres. I corrupt readers with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on the men who make their blood rise in certain places. I know... I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped, and my characters are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I follow orders. When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (You should check out my reviews.)
Find Your Next Obsession from my literary offerings on my website.
Join my VIPs if you're the type who enjoys spoiling yourself with exclusive content and rewards.
I love interacting with my readers, so hit me up and follow me on my Social Media.
I'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction in various genres. I corrupt readers with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on the men who make their blood rise in certain places. I know... I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped, and my characters are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I follow orders. When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (You should check out my reviews.)
Find Your Next Obsession from my literary offerings on my website.
Join my VIPs if you're the type who enjoys spoiling yourself with exclusive content and rewards.
I love interacting with my readers, so hit me up and follow me on my Social Media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
September 17, 2021
This was all over the place.
Too much info, too many things happening.
The dialogue was amateurish.
Plot holes and loose ends.
I skimmed through to the end.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
Too much info, too many things happening.
The dialogue was amateurish.
Plot holes and loose ends.
I skimmed through to the end.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
April 12, 2021
I usually enjoy Nicholas Bella's book but this one was... not for me obviously. Too much telling, not much writing. And I couldn't push myself through : you've got those two main characters and wow they both have those weird birthmarks, an angel and a dragon. What a coincidence : one is a mafia boss a.k.a a bad bad guy a.k.a guy sporting the dragon, the other is a PI with high moral standards a.k.a good guy a.k.a the angel... Got it ? wink wink. And they both have halves of this grimoire with each other tattoo on the cover. And holy cr*p they dream that they should reunite both halves of the grimoire. OMG. And oh, when they do, it become apparent that it was MEANT TO BE. Wow, I didn't have a clue. And the grimoire is magic and they don't read the same spells in it : when bad guy read a spell that allows the caster to remove a body part from an enemy, good guy sees one to repair said body part. What a clever way to tell us, readers, that those two guys obviously belong together ???
Need I say more ? DNFed.
Need I say more ? DNFed.
July 27, 2021
DNF at 46%. I got a very amateur-ish vibe from this that I didn't like. Not very well developed.
April 1, 2021
Once again Nicholas has hit it out of the park with another saucy paranormal M/M book.
This book has it all:
- an amazing plot filled with action, mystery, humour and of course those erotic scenes that get you hot under the collar.
- Loveable characters across the board (even the protagonists).
- Felt original! Books about Vamps, shifters, mages and magic are everywhere (and for good reason, we love them) But Nicholas created a world that felt original and left me wanting for more.
- A great balance of build-up and climax. There is a delicious amount of tension throughout the whole book.
I can not wait for the next book!
This book has it all:
- an amazing plot filled with action, mystery, humour and of course those erotic scenes that get you hot under the collar.
- Loveable characters across the board (even the protagonists).
- Felt original! Books about Vamps, shifters, mages and magic are everywhere (and for good reason, we love them) But Nicholas created a world that felt original and left me wanting for more.
- A great balance of build-up and climax. There is a delicious amount of tension throughout the whole book.
I can not wait for the next book!
March 28, 2021
I feel like I've been waiting for this book for ages, but let me tell you, it was worth the wait! This book is so complex and so well written. Nicholas Bella is on the top of my favorite author list, and if you still have questions why, then read this book!
NB writes paranormal romances like no one else. The characters are deep and looks real, their emotions are coming through the pages and the chemistry between the two MCs are off the chart hot.
"Could he be the yin to my yang? The light to my darkness?"
This book gives you deep and cute romance, hot as hell erotica, exciting magic with awesome spells and all the badass women you didn't know you needed in your life. I don't like women in my gay romances, but those in this book are kicking ass like no one elses business.
Sage, the lion king shifter and mage, the mob boss - is cute as a puppy. LOL I loved seeing this big prestigious mob boss king turn into a lovesick puppy when Adrian was near him. They were adorable together. Yeah, I know, adorable isn't the kind of world to describe a mob boss, but come on, they were really cute. And this is what I like in NB's stories; the contrast and the diversity. You can find any and every character you like, in every race and shape.
"My king... the lion king was my lover. Wow, it was turning out to be one hell of a week."
The vampires were an interesting addition to the story, and my jaw was on the floor at some scenes... holy hell, it was really intense! Sometimes reminded me of Theoden/Noel.(Chained in Darkness)
I enjoyed the hell out of this book and can't wait for the next one! Highly recommend.
"Sage was the darkness to my light and together, we made gray."
NB writes paranormal romances like no one else. The characters are deep and looks real, their emotions are coming through the pages and the chemistry between the two MCs are off the chart hot.
"Could he be the yin to my yang? The light to my darkness?"
This book gives you deep and cute romance, hot as hell erotica, exciting magic with awesome spells and all the badass women you didn't know you needed in your life. I don't like women in my gay romances, but those in this book are kicking ass like no one elses business.
Sage, the lion king shifter and mage, the mob boss - is cute as a puppy. LOL I loved seeing this big prestigious mob boss king turn into a lovesick puppy when Adrian was near him. They were adorable together. Yeah, I know, adorable isn't the kind of world to describe a mob boss, but come on, they were really cute. And this is what I like in NB's stories; the contrast and the diversity. You can find any and every character you like, in every race and shape.
"My king... the lion king was my lover. Wow, it was turning out to be one hell of a week."
The vampires were an interesting addition to the story, and my jaw was on the floor at some scenes... holy hell, it was really intense! Sometimes reminded me of Theoden/Noel.(Chained in Darkness)
I enjoyed the hell out of this book and can't wait for the next one! Highly recommend.
"Sage was the darkness to my light and together, we made gray."
March 20, 2021
The creative imagination of NB is just phenomenal. I expected an excellent read but he went BIG. The mob, shifters, magic, vamps...add in some good and evil? Sage and Adrian is just 🔥. Nicholas does it every damn time. I could not put it down. I can not wait for book 2. I KNOW it's on!!
June 15, 2022
RTC but this one was just very fun to read. I just had a very good time reading this book.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
June 30, 2022
DNF at 4%
i was in infodumping hell
the mc is extremely angry and violent, and yet also a total baby
i cannot continue
i was in infodumping hell
the mc is extremely angry and violent, and yet also a total baby
i cannot continue
June 14, 2022
hm ... yes excactly, this is that kind of a book ... hm ...
I am not sure where to start and what I really liked and what I did not like and why. not very helpful for you, I am sure .. and not very satisfying for me
the plot sounded very interesting, which was why I really wanted to like it ... but unfortunately the story was not very well developed.
this is the first book in this series, so the author would have had time to develop characters, relationships and build up the storyline.
but unfortunately they did not take their time but wanted too much for a first book.
the idea of MCs was interesting but in the end they were a bit lackluster:
Adrian was portraied like the perfect angel but for me he is not really the white knight if he says
Sage was more interesting than I expected and I liked him more than I thought I would.
all in all, this promised to be much better than it was. nevertheless, I will try the next one in this series to see where it goes
an ARC was provided by GRR and I am happy to give my honest opinion
I am not sure where to start and what I really liked and what I did not like and why. not very helpful for you, I am sure .. and not very satisfying for me
the plot sounded very interesting, which was why I really wanted to like it ... but unfortunately the story was not very well developed.
this is the first book in this series, so the author would have had time to develop characters, relationships and build up the storyline.
but unfortunately they did not take their time but wanted too much for a first book.
the idea of MCs was interesting but in the end they were a bit lackluster:
Adrian was portraied like the perfect angel but for me he is not really the white knight if he says
Sage was more interesting than I expected and I liked him more than I thought I would.
all in all, this promised to be much better than it was. nevertheless, I will try the next one in this series to see where it goes
an ARC was provided by GRR and I am happy to give my honest opinion
June 18, 2022
this was.... a very complicated read for me. i didnt like the writing....... honestly wanted to dnf so manyyy times.
the worldbuilding was pretty cool... but it.... felt so overwhelming and underwhelming at the same time. at the start, it was bursting with information, and then it felt draggy and repetitive. the real action on the main problem only start at about 80% of the book.
and everyone was "so goodlooking and strong" and I didn't really wanna read about MC getting turn on over other dude. at some point i was wondering if it was gonna be MMM with Salino. it was kinda turn off and annoying.
with this..... i honestly don't feel any chemistry between Adrian and Sage. Adrian was so concerned over the mafia side of Sage, did it ever crossed his mind that he never saw Sage in his lion form? and they kept getting turn on so easily with each other.... am i supposed to feel something that way? (i didnt.)
i think this is more focused on mages then vampires, and less on shifters and mafia/private detectives. which was disappointing bc i was expecting the latter more.
me throughout this book: uhm what the heck? ew. uh.
the worldbuilding was pretty cool... but it.... felt so overwhelming and underwhelming at the same time. at the start, it was bursting with information, and then it felt draggy and repetitive. the real action on the main problem only start at about 80% of the book.
and everyone was "so goodlooking and strong" and I didn't really wanna read about MC getting turn on over other dude. at some point i was wondering if it was gonna be MMM with Salino. it was kinda turn off and annoying.
with this..... i honestly don't feel any chemistry between Adrian and Sage. Adrian was so concerned over the mafia side of Sage, did it ever crossed his mind that he never saw Sage in his lion form? and they kept getting turn on so easily with each other.... am i supposed to feel something that way? (i didnt.)
i think this is more focused on mages then vampires, and less on shifters and mafia/private detectives. which was disappointing bc i was expecting the latter more.
me throughout this book: uhm what the heck? ew. uh.
March 20, 2021
Spectacular
What an absolutely fantastic start to this brand new series by Nicholas Bella.
This book was jam packed with magic, action and romance Bella style.These new characters are full of sass and bad a** attitude that kept me entertained till the very last page.
What an absolutely fantastic start to this brand new series by Nicholas Bella.
This book was jam packed with magic, action and romance Bella style.These new characters are full of sass and bad a** attitude that kept me entertained till the very last page.
July 15, 2021
I went into this really expecting to like it, and then several things stacked up on each other that really took me out of it, and some of it just comes down to personal preference. This is my first book by author Nicholas Bella, and it definitely seems by reading other reviews, that he has a loyal following. It is perhaps deserved, but this book's writing style didn't impress upon me to read other books in his catalog.
First off, the plot: Down on his luck, private investigator and mage Adrian is just trying to make ends meet while saving a few people. With his partner, Xavier, the book kicks off with their investigation into the kidnappings of young girls, which ends up being tied to a demon summoning. Sage, badass mage lion shifter, comes to Adrian for help: someone is trying to kill him, and he's having trouble figuring out who it is. He's got a lot of enemies, from rival mobsters to other supernatural creatures looking to take him out. When the pair meet, they have an instant personal and sexual connection that has ties to their mage ancestry and the grimoire they both possess.
The good: I like that Sage is a lion shifter, not a werewolf, which is overdone. I also like that him being gay isn't a big deal (although, it does make me wonder why he can't allow another male in his pride when he's not interested in his lady lions? I digress). The juxtaposition of shifter and mage is good, too, as usually books within this genre pick one. How they intersect spices it up a bit. The world building is also pretty good, with vampires and griezels (ghouls) as major player within the Chicago mafia scene.
The bad: There is a lot of exposition. Adrian is introduced and then immediately launches into a multi-page description of every type of supernatural creature out there. It slows down the pace a lot. This continued throughout -- Sage does a whole rundown of his mafia empire upon his introduction. Especially when it comes to him, he spends a lot of time inventorying his expensive possessions. (He gets into a nice car and then talks about all the other luxury cars he owns. Who cares?) At one point, he says he is wearing a tie that costs more than some people make in a MONTH. So, a $2,000 tie? Where does one even purchase that? I get the man sells drugs, runs casinos and all other manner of illegal and legal enterprises, but that just seemed silly.
The bad perhaps just for me: I am not a fan of insta-love. This can be qualified as a "fated mate" type story, which I understand does lend itself to insta-love, but I just didn't buy it. There's some pretty obvious stuff introduced here (Adrian is the "good" guy with an angel birthmark and he can see only the good spells in the grimoire. Sage is the "bad" guy with a dragon birthmark and he can see only the bad spells in the grimoire. But then, they each have a little good and bad, and so they are the yin to each other's yang, which is stated explicitly in the book.) Also, Adrian annoyed me sometimes, like he rescued the little girl in the beginning, but then kept on wanting to go back in and kill the perpetrator? It was a bit overdone. Then Sage is a badass, take-no-prisoner sort of guy, but oh look, he's a sofite after all because he didn't condemn a sick 6-year-old to death just because her father couldn't pay his loan back to Sage (this book's version of save-the-cat).
I never got fully immersed into this book and I found the writing a bit juvenile with all the showing-not-telling. I'm sure other people will enjoy it (and it certainly seems as though they have), but it really wasn't for me. It was just "meh" for me.
| I received an ARC in exchange for a fair review. |
First off, the plot: Down on his luck, private investigator and mage Adrian is just trying to make ends meet while saving a few people. With his partner, Xavier, the book kicks off with their investigation into the kidnappings of young girls, which ends up being tied to a demon summoning. Sage, badass mage lion shifter, comes to Adrian for help: someone is trying to kill him, and he's having trouble figuring out who it is. He's got a lot of enemies, from rival mobsters to other supernatural creatures looking to take him out. When the pair meet, they have an instant personal and sexual connection that has ties to their mage ancestry and the grimoire they both possess.
The good: I like that Sage is a lion shifter, not a werewolf, which is overdone. I also like that him being gay isn't a big deal (although, it does make me wonder why he can't allow another male in his pride when he's not interested in his lady lions? I digress). The juxtaposition of shifter and mage is good, too, as usually books within this genre pick one. How they intersect spices it up a bit. The world building is also pretty good, with vampires and griezels (ghouls) as major player within the Chicago mafia scene.
The bad: There is a lot of exposition. Adrian is introduced and then immediately launches into a multi-page description of every type of supernatural creature out there. It slows down the pace a lot. This continued throughout -- Sage does a whole rundown of his mafia empire upon his introduction. Especially when it comes to him, he spends a lot of time inventorying his expensive possessions. (He gets into a nice car and then talks about all the other luxury cars he owns. Who cares?) At one point, he says he is wearing a tie that costs more than some people make in a MONTH. So, a $2,000 tie? Where does one even purchase that? I get the man sells drugs, runs casinos and all other manner of illegal and legal enterprises, but that just seemed silly.
The bad perhaps just for me: I am not a fan of insta-love. This can be qualified as a "fated mate" type story, which I understand does lend itself to insta-love, but I just didn't buy it. There's some pretty obvious stuff introduced here (Adrian is the "good" guy with an angel birthmark and he can see only the good spells in the grimoire. Sage is the "bad" guy with a dragon birthmark and he can see only the bad spells in the grimoire. But then, they each have a little good and bad, and so they are the yin to each other's yang, which is stated explicitly in the book.) Also, Adrian annoyed me sometimes, like he rescued the little girl in the beginning, but then kept on wanting to go back in and kill the perpetrator? It was a bit overdone. Then Sage is a badass, take-no-prisoner sort of guy, but oh look, he's a sofite after all because he didn't condemn a sick 6-year-old to death just because her father couldn't pay his loan back to Sage (this book's version of save-the-cat).
I never got fully immersed into this book and I found the writing a bit juvenile with all the showing-not-telling. I'm sure other people will enjoy it (and it certainly seems as though they have), but it really wasn't for me. It was just "meh" for me.
| I received an ARC in exchange for a fair review. |
June 15, 2022
"And together, we made gray" ❤️
This was my first read from Nicholas Bella...it will not be my last. I expected good but what I got was excellence!!! Holy 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Sage and Adrian.... this book had everything... the Mob, shifters, action, good VS evil, vampires...romance and love, GAH!!! I'm mind blown!!
I highly recommend this book ❤️
Looking forward to what's next in the series
*I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review*
This was my first read from Nicholas Bella...it will not be my last. I expected good but what I got was excellence!!! Holy 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Sage and Adrian.... this book had everything... the Mob, shifters, action, good VS evil, vampires...romance and love, GAH!!! I'm mind blown!!
I highly recommend this book ❤️
Looking forward to what's next in the series
*I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review*
April 17, 2021
Wow!! Great start!
4.75 stars
I love Master Bella and his unique mind. He has a way of weaving the perfect story. His sense of humor is one I love so much. Much of Sage's snarky dialogue remind me of something my Mom would say. Looking forward to the next book!!!
4.75 stars
I love Master Bella and his unique mind. He has a way of weaving the perfect story. His sense of humor is one I love so much. Much of Sage's snarky dialogue remind me of something my Mom would say. Looking forward to the next book!!!
April 13, 2021
Oh wow.. this was.. something else entirely!
I started this book fully warned that it would be dark and indeed it was. Mob bosses, car chases, murder, kidnapping, extortion, torture, homicide, turf wars, everything I imagined and more was there. The plot is very action filled, totally what one would expect from a book about mafia character, but the supernatural spin on it?
Mages, vampires, shifters, demons, griezels, ghosts, you name it, it has it. The world in this one is fantastical and kind of scary actually. Divided territories, different systems and powers to each supernal and in between it all - humans and their human problems. It was fascinating to read about this world the author has conjured up, because while filled with fantastical things, it also felt very real. It was filled with good moments, bad moments and everything in between. Adrien definitely had some scary moments in his PI life, but it really was all light and sunshine compared to Sage's life.
There is something to be said about antiheroes though. I mean we know they are bad, we know they do bad things, have little to no remorse about what they do and we definitely would not want to be on their bad side, but there is just something about them that resonates, that makes you yearn to learn more, makes you want to see more of them and just get closer to them. Sage was definitely such character. And the most amazing part was that Adrian knows this and yet accepts him anyway.
Their connection is instantaneous, their chemistry is explosive and their magic - delicious. Of course it is not all smooth sailing, since Adrian still has his misgiving about Sage's life, but he is willing to accept who and what Sage is, because it is just meant to be. Sage accepts him fully and Adrian is willing to do the same, to fight for what they have and what they might become. They are the epitome of dark vs light, good vs bad, but they are meant to be. Call it fate, call it destiny, but they just fit.
This is not a fairy tale. This story is dark and full of violence and action. While I was reading it, I was equally horrified by their world and fascinated by it and couldn't put it down without knowing what will happen next. I just had to know, had to see! So if you are looking for a nice, sweet story, this book is not it. However, if you want to experience a little of living life on the edge, this is definitely the right book.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
I started this book fully warned that it would be dark and indeed it was. Mob bosses, car chases, murder, kidnapping, extortion, torture, homicide, turf wars, everything I imagined and more was there. The plot is very action filled, totally what one would expect from a book about mafia character, but the supernatural spin on it?
Mages, vampires, shifters, demons, griezels, ghosts, you name it, it has it. The world in this one is fantastical and kind of scary actually. Divided territories, different systems and powers to each supernal and in between it all - humans and their human problems. It was fascinating to read about this world the author has conjured up, because while filled with fantastical things, it also felt very real. It was filled with good moments, bad moments and everything in between. Adrien definitely had some scary moments in his PI life, but it really was all light and sunshine compared to Sage's life.
There is something to be said about antiheroes though. I mean we know they are bad, we know they do bad things, have little to no remorse about what they do and we definitely would not want to be on their bad side, but there is just something about them that resonates, that makes you yearn to learn more, makes you want to see more of them and just get closer to them. Sage was definitely such character. And the most amazing part was that Adrian knows this and yet accepts him anyway.
Their connection is instantaneous, their chemistry is explosive and their magic - delicious. Of course it is not all smooth sailing, since Adrian still has his misgiving about Sage's life, but he is willing to accept who and what Sage is, because it is just meant to be. Sage accepts him fully and Adrian is willing to do the same, to fight for what they have and what they might become. They are the epitome of dark vs light, good vs bad, but they are meant to be. Call it fate, call it destiny, but they just fit.
This is not a fairy tale. This story is dark and full of violence and action. While I was reading it, I was equally horrified by their world and fascinated by it and couldn't put it down without knowing what will happen next. I just had to know, had to see! So if you are looking for a nice, sweet story, this book is not it. However, if you want to experience a little of living life on the edge, this is definitely the right book.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
April 4, 2021
When I read the blurb and saw this was a book by Nicholas Bella I must admit I was pretty excited. I loved their collab on the Genesis Circle books starting with Circle of Darkness. As this was also a paranormal I was pretty sure I was going to enjoy it and I was very right. Adrian and Sage were a delight to read. They live is two different types of worlds, hold a completely different set of morals, yet the moment they meet they are drawn to each other by fate. One is light, the other is dark making the perfect balance of magic.
There was plenty of plot to go along with this steamy romance. It was pretty fast paced with things coming in all directions. Mayhem is definitely an apt description of the series if it continues along the same way. I was never bored and I stayed completely invested in the romance. I loved how Sage had no qualms making the hard decisions. He's a mobster, not to mention a shifter, so his life has been accustomed to a certain degree with violence. Even so, he promises to be truthful with Adrian on anything he asks. Thankfully Adrian tends to only ask if he really wants to know the answer. He's still coming to terms with falling in love with Sage, a man who isn't exactly morally grounded as he is.
I look forward to more in this series as the book ends with plenty of ways it could go next. That being said the relationship aspect is pretty damn solid. This start of a new series was definitely a winner for me. 4.5 stars
* This book was provided to me by GRR. All words are my own honest opinion. *
There was plenty of plot to go along with this steamy romance. It was pretty fast paced with things coming in all directions. Mayhem is definitely an apt description of the series if it continues along the same way. I was never bored and I stayed completely invested in the romance. I loved how Sage had no qualms making the hard decisions. He's a mobster, not to mention a shifter, so his life has been accustomed to a certain degree with violence. Even so, he promises to be truthful with Adrian on anything he asks. Thankfully Adrian tends to only ask if he really wants to know the answer. He's still coming to terms with falling in love with Sage, a man who isn't exactly morally grounded as he is.
I look forward to more in this series as the book ends with plenty of ways it could go next. That being said the relationship aspect is pretty damn solid. This start of a new series was definitely a winner for me. 4.5 stars
* This book was provided to me by GRR. All words are my own honest opinion. *
April 6, 2021
This is a great start to a new series! Bella sets up a complex world full of all types of supernatural creatures and magic users, and manages it all without info dumping or overwhelming the reader. I loved the fact that Sage, as a lion shifter, only has women lion shifters in his pride, just like how lions live in the wild. It was definitely a unique choice that I haven't seen before in shifter mm books.
The magic in this world in unique too. The MCs aren't limited to a personal magical source within themselves. They use ingredients and spells, and can grow in power by learning new, more complex spells. Granted, their learning curve was incredibly quick, but for the sake of pacing I understand wanting them to learn as much as possible. Also, their grimoire was SO cool! I loved the fact that they could only read the spells meant for them, which matched with their abilities and personalities.
While this book ends with a fairly solid HFN/HEA for the MCs, there are some major plot points that haven't wrapped up yet and I'm looking forward to seeing how things play out as the series continues.
As far as the "dark" aspect of this book, I didn't think it was bad at all. Sage is a mafia boss...he kills people if needed and doesn't let anyone stand in the way of what he wants. But he's not evil, and his actions are never particularly gruesome. So if the "dark" label has you hesitating, I wouldn't really worry about it.
If you enjoy paranormal and shifter mm with a bit of magic thrown in then I definitely recommend giving this series a try!
4-4.5 Stars
The magic in this world in unique too. The MCs aren't limited to a personal magical source within themselves. They use ingredients and spells, and can grow in power by learning new, more complex spells. Granted, their learning curve was incredibly quick, but for the sake of pacing I understand wanting them to learn as much as possible. Also, their grimoire was SO cool! I loved the fact that they could only read the spells meant for them, which matched with their abilities and personalities.
While this book ends with a fairly solid HFN/HEA for the MCs, there are some major plot points that haven't wrapped up yet and I'm looking forward to seeing how things play out as the series continues.
As far as the "dark" aspect of this book, I didn't think it was bad at all. Sage is a mafia boss...he kills people if needed and doesn't let anyone stand in the way of what he wants. But he's not evil, and his actions are never particularly gruesome. So if the "dark" label has you hesitating, I wouldn't really worry about it.
If you enjoy paranormal and shifter mm with a bit of magic thrown in then I definitely recommend giving this series a try!
4-4.5 Stars
March 20, 2021
Another amazing book by Nicholas Bella. We are again taken to a whole different world with mages, shifters, and vampires. The amount of detail and time put in to creating something so vivid and real makes you feel completely immersed in the story. The characters are everything you have come to expect and love from Nicholas Bella. I have yet to read a book from Bella that doesn't give you every possible feeling from the moment you start it to the second you finish it. The characters in this book were great without making you feel like you have been there and read this type of thing before. In a genre that is hard to stand out in, Nicholas Bella always does and every time it surprises me and leaves me wanting so much more! The world that was created is so unique and the characters are even more so. Nothing follows your "typical" mage, shifter, or vampire. There is always something new, something exciting, and of course something sexy/kinky. The only thing I did notice that veered from the "norm" surrounding Bella's books is the M/M "sexy time". There was definetly some hot action going on but I feel this book was the first time it was more toned down and not so prevalent throughout the book. This in no way takes away from the book, just an observation. There was so much world building and action in this book it kept you engaged from start to finish and of course the M/M action was epic because Nicholas Bella writes the absolute best in this department. This book was amazing and I look forward to so much more. A must read!
June 9, 2022
Adrian is a P.I. He also a rogue mage, not very powerful but a mage nonetheless. His world is populated by crazy ass humans, “Vampires, shifters, ghouls better known as griezels, ghosts, and demonic spirits”. Sage, mob boss, drug dealer, “filthy stinking rich” and above all a Lion King shifter. They each have a small bit of magic but they discover that together their powers are multiplied, breathtakingly so. It seems as though they have been fated to be together for hundreds of years.
I have followed this author for a while and like how he infuses his writing with such great characters that it’s impossible not to like them. Even secondary characters whether they are good or bad invoke strong feelings. Xavier is Adrian’s partner and Shi Is Sage’s number one and his enforcer/bodyguard. Very strong personalities the really complimented their relationships with Adrian and Sage.
I liked that Adrian’s light brought some humanity to Sage and Sage’s dark gave Adrian the access to use his magic for helping others.
A little mystery, some bloodletting, hot fated love, revenge, and magic. What more does a reader need.
I received an arc of this book.
I have followed this author for a while and like how he infuses his writing with such great characters that it’s impossible not to like them. Even secondary characters whether they are good or bad invoke strong feelings. Xavier is Adrian’s partner and Shi Is Sage’s number one and his enforcer/bodyguard. Very strong personalities the really complimented their relationships with Adrian and Sage.
I liked that Adrian’s light brought some humanity to Sage and Sage’s dark gave Adrian the access to use his magic for helping others.
A little mystery, some bloodletting, hot fated love, revenge, and magic. What more does a reader need.
I received an arc of this book.
March 22, 2021
Mages, Mayhem & Awesomeness!
At this point, it is not surprising to read another great book from Nicholas Bella. He has long proven to be one of the great masters in the M/M genre. Nicholas Bella's characters, whether vampires, wolves, gods, slaves or in this book, mobsters or mages are always strong and unapologetic.
In That Mafioso Magic, NB did not disappoint, he gave us two well rounded protagonists in their own unique ways.
Sage Tamir is a mob boss; he doesn’t make excuses or try to justify who he is. He is confident, arrogant, and self-assured “I couldn’t help but feel a little arrogant at the fact I looked so damn hot in a suit” Translation? I know who I am, nothing else need to be said!
Adrian is not a weak link in this story, he could definitely hold his own. He is both fierce and funny: “I didn’t grow up with a silver spoon in my month. I fact, it was more like a spork, and a plastic one at that. Struggle was my middle name.”
In That Mafioso Magic, these main characters are not just a good old private eye or an evil boss. These two are clocked in delicious shades of gray. Their opposing personalities are both simple and complex which makes for an explosive encounter.
One of the things I love about Nicholas Bella’s characters is that you don’t have to like them or even sympathize with them. However, at the end of the day, you will understand why they are who they are.
I can’t wait for the next chapter.
At this point, it is not surprising to read another great book from Nicholas Bella. He has long proven to be one of the great masters in the M/M genre. Nicholas Bella's characters, whether vampires, wolves, gods, slaves or in this book, mobsters or mages are always strong and unapologetic.
In That Mafioso Magic, NB did not disappoint, he gave us two well rounded protagonists in their own unique ways.
Sage Tamir is a mob boss; he doesn’t make excuses or try to justify who he is. He is confident, arrogant, and self-assured “I couldn’t help but feel a little arrogant at the fact I looked so damn hot in a suit” Translation? I know who I am, nothing else need to be said!
Adrian is not a weak link in this story, he could definitely hold his own. He is both fierce and funny: “I didn’t grow up with a silver spoon in my month. I fact, it was more like a spork, and a plastic one at that. Struggle was my middle name.”
In That Mafioso Magic, these main characters are not just a good old private eye or an evil boss. These two are clocked in delicious shades of gray. Their opposing personalities are both simple and complex which makes for an explosive encounter.
One of the things I love about Nicholas Bella’s characters is that you don’t have to like them or even sympathize with them. However, at the end of the day, you will understand why they are who they are.
I can’t wait for the next chapter.
March 24, 2021
Wow what an amazing beginning to a new series from Nicholas Bella!
An amazing new world is brought to life with characters that are very intriguing and complex. Shifters, vampires and mages all reside in the world, as well as humans (who know nothing of the supernatural world).
Several plot lines are going at once, but Bella weaves them effortlessly into cohesive stories that keep you reading just to see the next plot twist.
The characters are so well written and the chemistry is off the charts hot! From the moment the main characters eyes meet...it’s fire!
Now I’ve never been big on mafia romances, but this one only gives you small glimpses of that world. Just enough so you get the flavor of what that lifestyle is about. The ruthlessness and drive that mafia families encapsulate are married to a different races of supernatural clans. The focus is more on the supernatural aspects of the story, especially the Magic.
I cannot wait for the next installment of this series! Nicholas Bella never disappoints when he hooks you into one of his series of novels. Well worth the read every time!
An amazing new world is brought to life with characters that are very intriguing and complex. Shifters, vampires and mages all reside in the world, as well as humans (who know nothing of the supernatural world).
Several plot lines are going at once, but Bella weaves them effortlessly into cohesive stories that keep you reading just to see the next plot twist.
The characters are so well written and the chemistry is off the charts hot! From the moment the main characters eyes meet...it’s fire!
Now I’ve never been big on mafia romances, but this one only gives you small glimpses of that world. Just enough so you get the flavor of what that lifestyle is about. The ruthlessness and drive that mafia families encapsulate are married to a different races of supernatural clans. The focus is more on the supernatural aspects of the story, especially the Magic.
I cannot wait for the next installment of this series! Nicholas Bella never disappoints when he hooks you into one of his series of novels. Well worth the read every time!
March 26, 2021
If circumstances would have been better I would have read this book in one night. It is a page turner. A few plot twists kept the story flowing and made it interesting to continue. The main characters, Sage and Adrian, have a powerful chemistry and when they are together the sheets are burning. I liked that the supporting characters were fleshed out and had their own foibles. I see some of them getting their own books or maybe at least get an HFN/HEA.
After reading another series by Nicholas Bella I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Yes, they end in a bit of a cliffhanger but I am forgiving, the full length of the novel and the exciting storyline just keep me wanting for more adventures and what happens next in the lives of the protagonists. Usually I am not a fan of magic wielding mages but seeing them grow into their power, dealing with setbacks and and learning to accept their own failings made it easy for me to enjoy the book. Well done.
After reading another series by Nicholas Bella I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Yes, they end in a bit of a cliffhanger but I am forgiving, the full length of the novel and the exciting storyline just keep me wanting for more adventures and what happens next in the lives of the protagonists. Usually I am not a fan of magic wielding mages but seeing them grow into their power, dealing with setbacks and and learning to accept their own failings made it easy for me to enjoy the book. Well done.
April 4, 2021
3.5 Stars
I picked up this book because I was looking for something a little different and darker than my usual. It was definitely different, with really good worldbuilding and a lot of interesting new ideas, but I don't actually think it was all that dark. Instead, I thought it had a very interesting take on light v dark, and how those two can work so well together. I was very intrigued with the world from the start, and enjoyed all the places that Bella took it. However, for some reason I just never fully connected with the characters. I think the dialogue didn't work for me personally, but that's more than likely a me thing and not a book thing. If you're looking for a paranormal/urban fantasy book, with some very novel and interesting ideas and a new twist on fated mates, this just may be the book for you.
I picked up this book because I was looking for something a little different and darker than my usual. It was definitely different, with really good worldbuilding and a lot of interesting new ideas, but I don't actually think it was all that dark. Instead, I thought it had a very interesting take on light v dark, and how those two can work so well together. I was very intrigued with the world from the start, and enjoyed all the places that Bella took it. However, for some reason I just never fully connected with the characters. I think the dialogue didn't work for me personally, but that's more than likely a me thing and not a book thing. If you're looking for a paranormal/urban fantasy book, with some very novel and interesting ideas and a new twist on fated mates, this just may be the book for you.
April 11, 2021
This is an extremely well-crafted paranormal shifter romance. It has an amazing plot filled with magic, mystery, action, suspense, humour, and a sizzling can’t-put-the-book-down connection between the MCs. The world building is terrific; I was taken straight into the story and didn’t leave until I’d finished the last page. The chemistry is undeniable between the sarcastic Adrian and the ruthless lion shifter mobster, Sage. They’re complete opposites but slowly get drawn into each other’s orbit. I really liked how no-nonsense Sage is since he’s so used to his life, and despite this, how he promises to be truthful to Adrian. He’s definitely not as morally grounded as Adrian, and it’s captivating to see Adrian fall in love with someone like this. A great start to what is sure to be a truly engaging series!
March 23, 2021
Loved it💕🔥
This story shows another feather in this authors cap, still flagrantly exciting with characters that are unapologetically ruthless and dangerous. Sage and Adrian were yin and yang, opposite pieces but inexplicably connected. I loved there romance which had that touch of fated mates, but this wasn't wishy washy fated mates troupe but jacked up on steroids that even writing this review and after having just read this book I'm getting excited all over again😄. This story is slightly tamer than previous books in the sexy times but still had great chemistry that scorched up the pages. The world building, intricate threads of plot were dominant and took me on a thrilling ride with magic, vampires, shifters and mages. I loved how the story progressed and I had them ohh! Moments as things were revealed. Loving these characters and that they are voiced so well. This is definitely going to be a series to look out for👀💕
I received this took by the author and this is my honest opinion.
This story shows another feather in this authors cap, still flagrantly exciting with characters that are unapologetically ruthless and dangerous. Sage and Adrian were yin and yang, opposite pieces but inexplicably connected. I loved there romance which had that touch of fated mates, but this wasn't wishy washy fated mates troupe but jacked up on steroids that even writing this review and after having just read this book I'm getting excited all over again😄. This story is slightly tamer than previous books in the sexy times but still had great chemistry that scorched up the pages. The world building, intricate threads of plot were dominant and took me on a thrilling ride with magic, vampires, shifters and mages. I loved how the story progressed and I had them ohh! Moments as things were revealed. Loving these characters and that they are voiced so well. This is definitely going to be a series to look out for👀💕
I received this took by the author and this is my honest opinion.
April 6, 2021
This book is a paranormal romance at it's finest! it has a bit of everything... We have shifters, magic, spells, vampires, demons and they all intertwine seamlessly! When Adrian and Sage first meet.. just WOW! Their relationship starts out with a bang if you know what I mean! Magic has brought them together with Adrian as the Light to Sage's Dark! The plot is engaging and non stop, I read this in day because I could not put it down! The sexual chemistry between these too is always there.. comments, thoughts, shifter possessiveness. And the sex itself is off the charts! The story is told from both of their POV so we get some goodies there!! The supporting characters are all well developed and Xavier, Adrian's work partner offers some great comic relief along with all of the other sarcasm flying around to keep this fun with all the suspense! I do not want to give anything away! I received this book as an ARC for my honest review, so lets just say that I recommend this book to anyone looking for a paranormal romance with some real action along with awesome personalities, fun and plenty of chemistry!! Bring on the next book!
March 19, 2021
A new series from one of my favorite authors!!!! This one is a combination of his Demon Gate and Odin Chronicles series on steroids! Lots of everything that makes a book a Nicholas Bella book with lots more mystery and action. It's an old-time private eye mystery meets a paranormal thriller meets an erotica novel of the first order. Love the M/M action and all the heat even in the midst of the chaos.
July 6, 2021
Loved it
What a great new start to something that’s gonna be amazing I love that sage is morally grey character we all love and hate but mostly just want and Adrian is the complete opposite but still not wanting to change sage !! Fast paced so much action, steam , throw in tbe paranormal aspect and it was an amazing combination to make a great book
What a great new start to something that’s gonna be amazing I love that sage is morally grey character we all love and hate but mostly just want and Adrian is the complete opposite but still not wanting to change sage !! Fast paced so much action, steam , throw in tbe paranormal aspect and it was an amazing combination to make a great book
March 23, 2021
Most excellent
I have to wonder what is in store for Adrian, because Sage, being both a shifter and a vampire, makes their pairing significantly unbalanced. Something tells me that fate isn’t going to keep things as they are, and that Adrian will be changed to match Sage in power, abilities, and immortality. Though, the process isn’t likely to be fun for either of them.
I suspect that the rules governing the supernatural world are about to change drastically, and that those in power are desperately seeking to halt that change, but will likely bring it about through their own actions.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I have to wonder what is in store for Adrian, because Sage, being both a shifter and a vampire, makes their pairing significantly unbalanced. Something tells me that fate isn’t going to keep things as they are, and that Adrian will be changed to match Sage in power, abilities, and immortality. Though, the process isn’t likely to be fun for either of them.
I suspect that the rules governing the supernatural world are about to change drastically, and that those in power are desperately seeking to halt that change, but will likely bring it about through their own actions.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
March 24, 2021
A Mage and a shifter and the fire between them.
Paranormal romance is my favorite genre, and Nicholas Bella did not disappoint. I love how Adrian is the light to Sage ' s dark. I really enjoyed the yin and yang theme, and look forward to reading more of this series.
I'm dying to know more about the master vampire Salino. He's sexy and dark, but oh so smooth and lickable. Hoping the next book explores more of his back story.
Paranormal romance is my favorite genre, and Nicholas Bella did not disappoint. I love how Adrian is the light to Sage ' s dark. I really enjoyed the yin and yang theme, and look forward to reading more of this series.
I'm dying to know more about the master vampire Salino. He's sexy and dark, but oh so smooth and lickable. Hoping the next book explores more of his back story.
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