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Twisted Luck #5
Drafted Luck
Draft here I come, ready or not.
Doctorate achieved! Now time to pay off my mandatory service obligation to the government. The same government that may, or may not, be trying to occasionally kill me. But hey a job is a good thing, right?
I didn't expect it to be all rainbows and sprinkles, but neither did I envision being thrown in with a training group of misfits and potential criminals. How did I end up having to make decisions to let someone die, or try to prevent it, when keeping them alive is breaking the law.
You'd think with my skills they'd put me in a quiet lab somewhere. No, I get stuck with the Department of State and working with Japan. Don't these people read? Japan wants to kill me even more than my own government. But when Carelian decides the Dragon of China needs a friend my personal problems get eclipsed by international incidents, centered around me.
Being a trouble magnet is one thing, starting World War III is something else. How in the world do I get myself into these situations? And why didn't they just stick me somewhere where I wouldn't be the center of political drama?
Having twisted luck is one thing, how do I broker peace between three countries that all want to use me?
Doctorate achieved! Now time to pay off my mandatory service obligation to the government. The same government that may, or may not, be trying to occasionally kill me. But hey a job is a good thing, right?
I didn't expect it to be all rainbows and sprinkles, but neither did I envision being thrown in with a training group of misfits and potential criminals. How did I end up having to make decisions to let someone die, or try to prevent it, when keeping them alive is breaking the law.
You'd think with my skills they'd put me in a quiet lab somewhere. No, I get stuck with the Department of State and working with Japan. Don't these people read? Japan wants to kill me even more than my own government. But when Carelian decides the Dragon of China needs a friend my personal problems get eclipsed by international incidents, centered around me.
Being a trouble magnet is one thing, starting World War III is something else. How in the world do I get myself into these situations? And why didn't they just stick me somewhere where I wouldn't be the center of political drama?
Having twisted luck is one thing, how do I broker peace between three countries that all want to use me?
399 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2021
105 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Mel Todd
82 books210 followersHey everyone! I'm Mel Todd and I live in Atlanta, Georgia at this moment. I write mostly romance free urban fantasy, urban science fiction, and soon fantasy.
Here are 4 truths and one lie about myself.
1 - I know how to milk a goat.
2- I once propositioned Dean Cain.
3 - I had my picture taken with Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner.
4 - I have driven across the US.
5 - I have a library with over 2000 RPG books.
I'm working on the next book in the Twisted Luck series and have an duology I'm planning on writing for Nanowrimo in 2021.
Here are 4 truths and one lie about myself.
1 - I know how to milk a goat.
2- I once propositioned Dean Cain.
3 - I had my picture taken with Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner.
4 - I have driven across the US.
5 - I have a library with over 2000 RPG books.
I'm working on the next book in the Twisted Luck series and have an duology I'm planning on writing for Nanowrimo in 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
February 22, 2022
Cori has been "threatened" by the draft every since she found out she was a Merlin. She needed to get through schooling first, though, before she can begin her 10 years with the government.
This book opens with orientation (where people try to kill her, which par for the course, so not a spoiler), before moving on to her actual draft job. With a deep desire to help people through being a paramedic/emt/and or doctor she got an education in that direction. She's looking forward to a career in medical research ("they" "wouldn't let her study to be a doctor"). So, of course, she's assigned . . . to the state department. To be a negotiator. On a deal that involves the USA and China and, of course, Japan.
Why, of course, Japan? Previous works in the series saw Japan . . . and Cori not . . . react well with each other.
No one wants Cori involved in the position she has been placed, including Cori, her coworkers, Japan or China, except for the boss who pulled strings to get Cori.
Naturally this lead to . . . stuff.
Another good solid inclusion in the series. Not as good as previous works, though.
This book opens with orientation (where people try to kill her, which par for the course, so not a spoiler), before moving on to her actual draft job. With a deep desire to help people through being a paramedic/emt/and or doctor she got an education in that direction. She's looking forward to a career in medical research ("they" "wouldn't let her study to be a doctor"). So, of course, she's assigned . . . to the state department. To be a negotiator. On a deal that involves the USA and China and, of course, Japan.
Why, of course, Japan? Previous works in the series saw Japan . . . and Cori not . . . react well with each other.
No one wants Cori involved in the position she has been placed, including Cori, her coworkers, Japan or China, except for the boss who pulled strings to get Cori.
Naturally this lead to . . . stuff.
Another good solid inclusion in the series. Not as good as previous works, though.
October 18, 2021
Bad luck or no luck at all
I love Cori and her misadventures with luck & her practical way of looking at the world and her steel backbone not backing down to anyone even the denizens. I like that she always has Queans as back up and Crelian as her biggest champion. I like that she has compassion and is always trying to save everyone and show real compassion in doing it even if they had been enemies in the past. I look forward to her further adventures in her service time and her growing relationships. I highly recommend this series to anyone that likes humor, sarcasm, snark, resilience, compassion, and adventure!
I love Cori and her misadventures with luck & her practical way of looking at the world and her steel backbone not backing down to anyone even the denizens. I like that she always has Queans as back up and Crelian as her biggest champion. I like that she has compassion and is always trying to save everyone and show real compassion in doing it even if they had been enemies in the past. I look forward to her further adventures in her service time and her growing relationships. I highly recommend this series to anyone that likes humor, sarcasm, snark, resilience, compassion, and adventure!
October 16, 2021
Good
Corisande Munroe is beginning her mage draft service, with her familiar Carelian Tail-Lash Xeonise at her side. Being a double Merlin makes her a prime target, and there are powers that would happily take her out.
When it comes to placements though, hers would seem to be the height of folly. Someone didn’t pay attention to the reports of what went on before, and it puts Cori in the crosshairs of some dangerous people.
However, Cori is not without friends, and powerful ones at that. Fortunately those powerful friends are more than willing to help…
We head back into the Twisted Luck universe shortly after the novella, and a few years after the last book. It’s not a standalone, so I highly recommend reading the previous books first!
Cori has very much grown into her own, and her unique relationship with Jo and Sable (a triad marriage of power forming a coven) has made all three of them very powerful beings.
We also get to see Charles and Arachnea, who have matured in some pleasant ways too.
Lots of appearances from our favourite Denizens, plus a few new ones, round out an exciting cast, and an enjoyable book. There is magic, action… and unfortunately for Cori, political machinations!
An entertaining and magical read for fans of the series, and urban fantasy fans alike.
Corisande Munroe is beginning her mage draft service, with her familiar Carelian Tail-Lash Xeonise at her side. Being a double Merlin makes her a prime target, and there are powers that would happily take her out.
When it comes to placements though, hers would seem to be the height of folly. Someone didn’t pay attention to the reports of what went on before, and it puts Cori in the crosshairs of some dangerous people.
However, Cori is not without friends, and powerful ones at that. Fortunately those powerful friends are more than willing to help…
We head back into the Twisted Luck universe shortly after the novella, and a few years after the last book. It’s not a standalone, so I highly recommend reading the previous books first!
Cori has very much grown into her own, and her unique relationship with Jo and Sable (a triad marriage of power forming a coven) has made all three of them very powerful beings.
We also get to see Charles and Arachnea, who have matured in some pleasant ways too.
Lots of appearances from our favourite Denizens, plus a few new ones, round out an exciting cast, and an enjoyable book. There is magic, action… and unfortunately for Cori, political machinations!
An entertaining and magical read for fans of the series, and urban fantasy fans alike.
October 16, 2021
Great Series
I couldn’t put this book down, it was so exciting. I’m glad Mel is working on the next one. I like that the books are on Kindle Unlimited but I enjoy listening to books also and I can get the audiobook at a discount when I download the book. I get to keep the audiobook after I return the Kindle Unlimited book.
I couldn’t put this book down, it was so exciting. I’m glad Mel is working on the next one. I like that the books are on Kindle Unlimited but I enjoy listening to books also and I can get the audiobook at a discount when I download the book. I get to keep the audiobook after I return the Kindle Unlimited book.
October 16, 2021
Twisted Luck Series Continues Strong
Often subsequent books in a series prove a disappointment. Drafted Luck continues the series with great characters, great drama/action, and great descriptions. Mel Todd has obviously spent as much time on this book as she did the previous books. I encourage you to buy this series as it's worth rereading. Enjoy.
Often subsequent books in a series prove a disappointment. Drafted Luck continues the series with great characters, great drama/action, and great descriptions. Mel Todd has obviously spent as much time on this book as she did the previous books. I encourage you to buy this series as it's worth rereading. Enjoy.
October 16, 2021
Another great book in this series
With a heroine who manages to be incredibly different and yet still somehow relatable, and mysterious creatures galore this series has intrigued me from the start & it's not slowing down! I can't wait to read the next one ☺
With a heroine who manages to be incredibly different and yet still somehow relatable, and mysterious creatures galore this series has intrigued me from the start & it's not slowing down! I can't wait to read the next one ☺
October 17, 2021
Enjoyed thoroughly, great addition to series, couple minor complaints
First let me say I really am enjoying this series. The author has obviously worked very hard to flesh out and firmly establish the genre and background concepts of this world and has done a great job of displaying it through the protagonist's story instead of merely bland exposition.
A pair of complaints I have though... I dislike how Cori doesnt tell anyone about some.of the important secrets she discovers that she's not only ill-equipped to deal with, but also doesnt have the wherewithal to do so. The first of these is the assassin in the first arc of the story, the Orientation. At some point, she should have revealed him to SOMEONE. I get that she doesnt know who to trust with her new contacts, but letting Steven or Indira know, especially with their connections and Steven being well-placed with federal law enforcement, should have been a no-brainer. It was also a thread left without resolution. Because of this, there is a foreign operative, spy/assassin operating within the American Draft, with impunity. That's just morally and ethically wrong for her to do nothing about and downright negligent, if not treasonous, of her to withhold. Shame on the character and the author for that.
Beyond that, it took her an inordinate amount of time to address the other issues with her superiors at the State Dept. Again, while the author did establish a concern over who to trust, Indira has worked with Cori enough for her to understand that sometimes revealing pieces of information and the resultant INaction can help you sniff out co-conspirators. It felt like the author was playing with the idea of co-conspirators in Cori's chain of command (like Yang or Pearl), but then decided it wasnt necessary. Author Todd has been alluding to Cori feeling like she has to be the one responsible for these things, but she's also specially stated that she doesnt feel that way, that it isnt her place. That dichotomy should have been addressed more directly. And while the concept of 'actionable intelligence' was used to support her lack of communication, again, there's a concept here that others may have additional info which ties things together, a point that became apparent when she did loop in Yang and Pearl. At minimum that should have been established as a learning point for Cori to give others their due and recognize that there are competent people who handle that kind of thing (like CIA/intelligence analysts). Onr last point in this concept is that Todd never really conveys the effects of this new virus. Everything about it is highly nebulous. Most impacting though is the severity of the impact of it and the resulting necessity of the importance of the whole treaty. Really should've spent a little more time on that to prorvide a framework for the urgency of the treaty... she also went back and forth on that urgency being related to the virus and also to a potential cure for cancer. Feels like maybe that got a little jumbled in the editing process of the book.
Lastly, and this is a fault of much story telling these days, the denouement was very lacking. The so-called Epilogue was more of a last chapter. It directly pertained to the falling action and wrap up of the actual story. A better Epilogue would have been her actually workimg with Japan on the research she had and how to help them sustain it, primarily in expository dialogue with their minister (whose name escapes me currently). And then secondarily for maybe having tea with Cixi and Tiangtian (not sure of spelling), having them build a friendship (because a LOT is owed there, and the potential for a LOT more gained by this new ruler with such a powerful ally in Cori, from her understanding of Magic, her Herald position, her connection with Denizens, and her own magical ability, I mean, no brainer here). That little tea party could've provided a lot of follow up to the fallout there and allowed for a cleaner start to the next story as well as more firmly establishing Cixis circumstances and relationship (however the author wished it to be) with both the dragon and Cori.
As a result, the ending fell a little flat to me...great multilayered climax, but no real afterward and return to 'normalcy' (or reestablishing what that might look like in the aftermath).
First let me say I really am enjoying this series. The author has obviously worked very hard to flesh out and firmly establish the genre and background concepts of this world and has done a great job of displaying it through the protagonist's story instead of merely bland exposition.
A pair of complaints I have though... I dislike how Cori doesnt tell anyone about some.of the important secrets she discovers that she's not only ill-equipped to deal with, but also doesnt have the wherewithal to do so. The first of these is the assassin in the first arc of the story, the Orientation. At some point, she should have revealed him to SOMEONE. I get that she doesnt know who to trust with her new contacts, but letting Steven or Indira know, especially with their connections and Steven being well-placed with federal law enforcement, should have been a no-brainer. It was also a thread left without resolution. Because of this, there is a foreign operative, spy/assassin operating within the American Draft, with impunity. That's just morally and ethically wrong for her to do nothing about and downright negligent, if not treasonous, of her to withhold. Shame on the character and the author for that.
Beyond that, it took her an inordinate amount of time to address the other issues with her superiors at the State Dept. Again, while the author did establish a concern over who to trust, Indira has worked with Cori enough for her to understand that sometimes revealing pieces of information and the resultant INaction can help you sniff out co-conspirators. It felt like the author was playing with the idea of co-conspirators in Cori's chain of command (like Yang or Pearl), but then decided it wasnt necessary. Author Todd has been alluding to Cori feeling like she has to be the one responsible for these things, but she's also specially stated that she doesnt feel that way, that it isnt her place. That dichotomy should have been addressed more directly. And while the concept of 'actionable intelligence' was used to support her lack of communication, again, there's a concept here that others may have additional info which ties things together, a point that became apparent when she did loop in Yang and Pearl. At minimum that should have been established as a learning point for Cori to give others their due and recognize that there are competent people who handle that kind of thing (like CIA/intelligence analysts). Onr last point in this concept is that Todd never really conveys the effects of this new virus. Everything about it is highly nebulous. Most impacting though is the severity of the impact of it and the resulting necessity of the importance of the whole treaty. Really should've spent a little more time on that to prorvide a framework for the urgency of the treaty... she also went back and forth on that urgency being related to the virus and also to a potential cure for cancer. Feels like maybe that got a little jumbled in the editing process of the book.
Lastly, and this is a fault of much story telling these days, the denouement was very lacking. The so-called Epilogue was more of a last chapter. It directly pertained to the falling action and wrap up of the actual story. A better Epilogue would have been her actually workimg with Japan on the research she had and how to help them sustain it, primarily in expository dialogue with their minister (whose name escapes me currently). And then secondarily for maybe having tea with Cixi and Tiangtian (not sure of spelling), having them build a friendship (because a LOT is owed there, and the potential for a LOT more gained by this new ruler with such a powerful ally in Cori, from her understanding of Magic, her Herald position, her connection with Denizens, and her own magical ability, I mean, no brainer here). That little tea party could've provided a lot of follow up to the fallout there and allowed for a cleaner start to the next story as well as more firmly establishing Cixis circumstances and relationship (however the author wished it to be) with both the dragon and Cori.
As a result, the ending fell a little flat to me...great multilayered climax, but no real afterward and return to 'normalcy' (or reestablishing what that might look like in the aftermath).
March 31, 2022
DO NOT USE NEURODIVERGENT PEOPLE AS MORALISING PLOT POINTS. I feel like this needs to be reiterated. DO NOT USE NEURODIVERGENT PEOPLE AS MORALISING PLOT POINTS.
Having people with Down's Syndrome and other neurodiverse groups have their magic taken away without consent so they aren't killed is... a lot. It reeks of infantilisation and also raging eugenics. Do I think this was the author's intent? I certainly hope not. Explaining neurodivergent people as 'simple' is never ok. If this was written fifteen years ago I would have been uncomfortable with it but understood that language changes and it's hard to keep up with it all. But published in 2021?! In addition to discussions of beings in other realms just killing the "broken" ones, the series is increasing in its anti-disability sentiments. I think Mel Todd was trying to show that this isn't true, but, if anything, she illustrated that disabled and neurodivergent people are dangers and incapable of autonomy. It hurts.
But what is a beautiful story of an ace badass is diminished by the racism (mostly against Asian people) and the ableism. I so very love the relationship between Cori, Jo, Sable and Carelian but this relationship is overshadowed (especially in this book) by the eugenic overtones.
As a disabled biracial person (although not Asian) a lot of this book left me feeling... dirty. It reminded me all to well of how people like me are frequently abused with little to no recourse.
Please Mel Todd, get some sensitivity readers. I would be happy to be one. There is too much amazing worldbuilding and too many wonderful characters to have this ruined by increasingly problematic ways of framing things.
Having people with Down's Syndrome and other neurodiverse groups have their magic taken away without consent so they aren't killed is... a lot. It reeks of infantilisation and also raging eugenics. Do I think this was the author's intent? I certainly hope not. Explaining neurodivergent people as 'simple' is never ok. If this was written fifteen years ago I would have been uncomfortable with it but understood that language changes and it's hard to keep up with it all. But published in 2021?! In addition to discussions of beings in other realms just killing the "broken" ones, the series is increasing in its anti-disability sentiments. I think Mel Todd was trying to show that this isn't true, but, if anything, she illustrated that disabled and neurodivergent people are dangers and incapable of autonomy. It hurts.
But what is a beautiful story of an ace badass is diminished by the racism (mostly against Asian people) and the ableism. I so very love the relationship between Cori, Jo, Sable and Carelian but this relationship is overshadowed (especially in this book) by the eugenic overtones.
As a disabled biracial person (although not Asian) a lot of this book left me feeling... dirty. It reminded me all to well of how people like me are frequently abused with little to no recourse.
Please Mel Todd, get some sensitivity readers. I would be happy to be one. There is too much amazing worldbuilding and too many wonderful characters to have this ruined by increasingly problematic ways of framing things.
April 15, 2023
2023 bk 126. Finally getting a draft assignment means - well commuting by sidestepping from New York or Atlanta. Cory is assigned to the State Department in Washington, D. C. In no way is the assignment related to her college degrees or work experience - they want her for her inherited notebooks. Notebooks her new boss intends to coerce her into giving to Japan (remember the contract assassination plot?) Pearl, the boss, really didn't know what she was getting herself into as she manages to insult the Japanese delegation, the Chinese delegation, and familiars. Things do get a little better. Familiars of two nations take matters into their own hands and when an angry mother dragon gets involved - well the government begins to understand that they do not have the upper hand any longer. Well done - I enjoyed some of the dialog and the fascinating plot twists of this book.
October 17, 2021
Conspiracies, more magical legendary creatures, and also a cute party dressed ruined
All in the regular life of Cori Munroe. I could have had an entire book of just the "orientation camp" and those chosen to be there. But I was happy with how it segued into the rest of the book. I can't believe she hasn't met the POTUS yet. I mean political intriguing person's usually at least get a video call right?
All in the regular life of Cori Munroe. I could have had an entire book of just the "orientation camp" and those chosen to be there. But I was happy with how it segued into the rest of the book. I can't believe she hasn't met the POTUS yet. I mean political intriguing person's usually at least get a video call right?
October 16, 2021
Great book.
Another great book in the series, the only bad thing is the wait for the next book.
I really love the development of Cori and totally understand her wish to stay out of politics. But I doubt she will ever get her wish.
I went back and reread the series in anticipation of the release of this book. And I have to say I enjoyed the continuing roller coaster of emotions and catastrophes.
Another great book in the series, the only bad thing is the wait for the next book.
I really love the development of Cori and totally understand her wish to stay out of politics. But I doubt she will ever get her wish.
I went back and reread the series in anticipation of the release of this book. And I have to say I enjoyed the continuing roller coaster of emotions and catastrophes.
October 15, 2021
Good continuation
The action continues and character development is getting stronger. Problems with the system is really messed up. I can hardly wait for the next one. I hope the author has some solutions to problems in the next book.
The action continues and character development is getting stronger. Problems with the system is really messed up. I can hardly wait for the next one. I hope the author has some solutions to problems in the next book.
October 17, 2021
Excellent book
I Thought the book had a good storyline and now I can’t wait for six. The whole series has been fun to read.
I Thought the book had a good storyline and now I can’t wait for six. The whole series has been fun to read.
October 15, 2021
Excellent as usual.
Highly recommended. Cori to the rescue again. Each book builds on the complexity of the universe it is set in. Looking forward to more books coming.
Highly recommended. Cori to the rescue again. Each book builds on the complexity of the universe it is set in. Looking forward to more books coming.
November 27, 2021
This book has gorgeous world building. I love all the realms, demi gods and supernatural beings. This is one of those series, when I am reading the book it is extremely enjoyable and I completely immerse myself in it. However when I put the book down I realize that the characters had very little growth and the story was mostly about solving a bunch of obstacles and riddles. There is some complex politics but again it isnt deep but surface only. She is grown magically but there is very little difference in the character she is now in book #5 vs the character she was in book #1.
In the past I commented, how these books had a lot of diverse characters but it bugged me that the Latino family only ate taco night and enchiladas as their regular food. However in this book my alarms went off a little bit more.
In 2021, a failed plot from the Chinese government to release a virus and kill a majority of the population to gain the upper hand. Really after all the xenophobia that happened this year, no other nation seemed to be a more viable culprit in this imaginary world?
The prior villain in these books was the Japanese government and now we are going to pin villainy on the Chinese, specially this year about the virus, it was a little harder to digest.
Sprinkle in the insistence of using American Indian vs Native Americans and a few other subtle things that just didnt sit well with me. I might be discontinuing the series after this one.
In the past I commented, how these books had a lot of diverse characters but it bugged me that the Latino family only ate taco night and enchiladas as their regular food. However in this book my alarms went off a little bit more.
In 2021, a failed plot from the Chinese government to release a virus and kill a majority of the population to gain the upper hand. Really after all the xenophobia that happened this year, no other nation seemed to be a more viable culprit in this imaginary world?
The prior villain in these books was the Japanese government and now we are going to pin villainy on the Chinese, specially this year about the virus, it was a little harder to digest.
Sprinkle in the insistence of using American Indian vs Native Americans and a few other subtle things that just didnt sit well with me. I might be discontinuing the series after this one.
October 22, 2021
awesome, if a bit predictable
I mean, I figured out what Japan wanted as soon as it came up. The MC had to be almost purposefully obtuse to not put it together. The only saving grace is that Japan did not (apparently) know what to ask for, specifically. So they get a pass for being stupid because neither side was communicating effectively. They also get a pass because neither side could fully trust the other.
I’m going to buy the next book, cuz this is good stuff. Whenever it gets written, that is.
I mean, I figured out what Japan wanted as soon as it came up. The MC had to be almost purposefully obtuse to not put it together. The only saving grace is that Japan did not (apparently) know what to ask for, specifically. So they get a pass for being stupid because neither side was communicating effectively. They also get a pass because neither side could fully trust the other.
I’m going to buy the next book, cuz this is good stuff. Whenever it gets written, that is.
November 25, 2021
Great read!
I just spent the last few days reading books 1 through 5 and highly recommend this series. I commend this author for knowing how to end a book without a cliffhanger and use pure talent to entice the readers into buying the next books in her series. BRAVO and thank you.
I just spent the last few days reading books 1 through 5 and highly recommend this series. I commend this author for knowing how to end a book without a cliffhanger and use pure talent to entice the readers into buying the next books in her series. BRAVO and thank you.
November 25, 2021
Drat it! Not long enough!
Ok, I'll be honest, it could be twice as long, and not long enough...I'm JUST that greedy! Looking forward to the next one, and reading bits of these five, in a futile effort to hold off the withdrawal pains.
Excellant books, and well worth the wait. Don't stop!
Ok, I'll be honest, it could be twice as long, and not long enough...I'm JUST that greedy! Looking forward to the next one, and reading bits of these five, in a futile effort to hold off the withdrawal pains.
Excellant books, and well worth the wait. Don't stop!
November 29, 2021
Loved all 5 books
When I started to read all the twisted luck books I couldn't put them day I never new want was going to happen next. I will be re-reading them love them that much I also would recommended them to friends and family to. Thank you for writing amazing books Mel Todd
When I started to read all the twisted luck books I couldn't put them day I never new want was going to happen next. I will be re-reading them love them that much I also would recommended them to friends and family to. Thank you for writing amazing books Mel Todd
October 16, 2021
Samson
This series is well worth the effort, i actually have no problems to complain about which I think is a first. Stories and characters are well planned, I can't wait for the next one.
This series is well worth the effort, i actually have no problems to complain about which I think is a first. Stories and characters are well planned, I can't wait for the next one.
October 19, 2021
An amazing read
Thank goodness for Kindle reminding me of the next book in a series, what an amazing read. Twists and turns - the up and the down. Mel Todd writes an incredible world. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank goodness for Kindle reminding me of the next book in a series, what an amazing read. Twists and turns - the up and the down. Mel Todd writes an incredible world. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
October 22, 2021
Awesome
I can't put any of this series down once I start to read, heck I don't even want to, even though i have to work the next day. Lol. They are that good, can't wait for the next one .
I can't put any of this series down once I start to read, heck I don't even want to, even though i have to work the next day. Lol. They are that good, can't wait for the next one .
October 24, 2021
Great continuation of the series.
Fabulous book. You really can't get much more action packed in a book of this genre. Great series. Read all 5 they are a fascinating look at an alternative reality, which we All really need at this time. Looking forward to #6!
Fabulous book. You really can't get much more action packed in a book of this genre. Great series. Read all 5 they are a fascinating look at an alternative reality, which we All really need at this time. Looking forward to #6!
April 26, 2023
Of all the Twisted Luck installments “Drafted Luck” is one of the most emotionally intense reads. Readers get a real sense of how perverse the OMO treats the mages who they deem troublesome or defective and let me tell you it is not pretty.
While Jo and Sable have been given wonderful opportunities in the draft Cori has been relegated to the reformatory of the mage world. Who knew they had such a place and she is paired with a group criminals, rapists and social rejects. Those in charge seem to take a joyful glee when handing out punishments and death seems to be their favorite one. Cori is adamant on surviving as well as putting these people in their places much to their dismay. However, even her patience is stretched when she realizes they plan to kill the most innocent of our society. Little do they know that she has powerful friends who will come to her aid when called. Let me tell you this is one wondrous thing to read about.
After her stint in reformatory school they OMO sends her to D.C. to work on a treaty between none other than Japan, China and the United States. Yep! You heard me. Even though she almost leveled Japan’s palace they think she can be helpful. Let’s face it this is the beginning of a massive disaster in the making. There is a devious plot afoot and in order for Cori to stop the impending catastrophe she will have to make the ultimate sacrifice. Is she and her friends up to the task? Well, you will have to read it to find out!!
I was emotionally exhausted in this read. There are many situations that tugged at my heart. Yet, Cori seems to handle it all unselfishly and in stride. The only thing that bothered me was the ending. I wanted a little more but maybe the author will address some of my questions in the opening chapter of the next book. At any rate, I highly recommend this series and this read.
While Jo and Sable have been given wonderful opportunities in the draft Cori has been relegated to the reformatory of the mage world. Who knew they had such a place and she is paired with a group criminals, rapists and social rejects. Those in charge seem to take a joyful glee when handing out punishments and death seems to be their favorite one. Cori is adamant on surviving as well as putting these people in their places much to their dismay. However, even her patience is stretched when she realizes they plan to kill the most innocent of our society. Little do they know that she has powerful friends who will come to her aid when called. Let me tell you this is one wondrous thing to read about.
After her stint in reformatory school they OMO sends her to D.C. to work on a treaty between none other than Japan, China and the United States. Yep! You heard me. Even though she almost leveled Japan’s palace they think she can be helpful. Let’s face it this is the beginning of a massive disaster in the making. There is a devious plot afoot and in order for Cori to stop the impending catastrophe she will have to make the ultimate sacrifice. Is she and her friends up to the task? Well, you will have to read it to find out!!
I was emotionally exhausted in this read. There are many situations that tugged at my heart. Yet, Cori seems to handle it all unselfishly and in stride. The only thing that bothered me was the ending. I wanted a little more but maybe the author will address some of my questions in the opening chapter of the next book. At any rate, I highly recommend this series and this read.
December 27, 2024
With her exams out of the way, and her Doctorate finished, it's now time for Cori to start working her Mandatory Service, or Draft years which, because she's a double Merlin, means she owes ten years to the Draft, before she can choose her own job.
But the Orienteering month that all Draft workers have to go through, seems very different to everything Jo and Sable had described to her, with only eleven other people in the course with her, and no other Merlin among them.
Each of them also seem to have done something considered bad, by the Director of the Draft, Brian Kamp.
But, when her first lesson ends with one of the other students deliberately goaded into attacking Kamp, who then kills him, Cori knows for certain that this whole Orienteering class has been set up by Director Harold Lefoin, who hates Cori, and wants any excuse to legally kill her!
Between her Familiar, Carelian, and her friends, Cori must learn to travel through the minefield that is the Draft, while doing her best to protect those innocents around her, put in the line of fire by men who are so afraid of any change, they'd rather kill first!
This was an absorbing book, full of multiple layers of plotting, and a whole host of characters, both Human, and Other, with far too many of them willing, able, and seemingly far too eager, to kill Cori!
I absolutely loved the way that she trod so gently - and, sometimes, not so gently, through the various plots of the Japanese, the Chinese, and her own Country's Government lackeys!
Once again, this was an entertaining read, that I found hard to put down over this holiday season. In fact, I want to go straight on to Book Six: 'Faded Luck', to see what else will happen to Cori during her Draft years!
Once I've read this, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know exactly what I think of it!
But the Orienteering month that all Draft workers have to go through, seems very different to everything Jo and Sable had described to her, with only eleven other people in the course with her, and no other Merlin among them.
Each of them also seem to have done something considered bad, by the Director of the Draft, Brian Kamp.
But, when her first lesson ends with one of the other students deliberately goaded into attacking Kamp, who then kills him, Cori knows for certain that this whole Orienteering class has been set up by Director Harold Lefoin, who hates Cori, and wants any excuse to legally kill her!
Between her Familiar, Carelian, and her friends, Cori must learn to travel through the minefield that is the Draft, while doing her best to protect those innocents around her, put in the line of fire by men who are so afraid of any change, they'd rather kill first!
This was an absorbing book, full of multiple layers of plotting, and a whole host of characters, both Human, and Other, with far too many of them willing, able, and seemingly far too eager, to kill Cori!
I absolutely loved the way that she trod so gently - and, sometimes, not so gently, through the various plots of the Japanese, the Chinese, and her own Country's Government lackeys!
Once again, this was an entertaining read, that I found hard to put down over this holiday season. In fact, I want to go straight on to Book Six: 'Faded Luck', to see what else will happen to Cori during her Draft years!
Once I've read this, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know exactly what I think of it!
August 28, 2022
5 Her Body More Dumpling Than Noodle Stars
Drafted Luck is the fifth book in the Twisted Luck series by Mel Todd.
Oof, what a twisted web these powers of government weave. The moment I read she was going to be working at the Japanese Embassy it was obvious there would be a major fallout. That it came not from Japan, but China? This was the true shocker.
I wonder what the consequences or implications are of Jeorgaz becoming Cori's Foci at the end of the book will be? Is this a permanent position now? Or was it merely temporary to help them escape the disaster?
I know with a certainty that Cori will find something, or someone that will complete her life. I've seen the book covers so I know she is pregnant later, but I wonder if she finds love? Or if she will come to carry Jo and Sable's child since I'm pretty sure that Jo offered up something that made her infertile when she saved all of those people at the SEC arena.
What will she face next as she moves onto a new position for the remainder of her draft? Will she be rewarded for her great sacrifice in saving so many lives with anything other than the Medal of Freedom?
I'm so curious to know what else is in James' research? What further will Merlin Munroe accomplish? Especially in her role as Herald of Magic? It is obvious more is coming.... I wonder if what Shay talked about so long ago has already passed, or if there is yet another great sacrifice or choice she has to make? I wonder if we will see him in her orbit again? What about the question her griffon mentor has asked she consider? What will that be?
Drafted Luck is the fifth book in the Twisted Luck series by Mel Todd.
Oof, what a twisted web these powers of government weave. The moment I read she was going to be working at the Japanese Embassy it was obvious there would be a major fallout. That it came not from Japan, but China? This was the true shocker.
I wonder what the consequences or implications are of Jeorgaz becoming Cori's Foci at the end of the book will be? Is this a permanent position now? Or was it merely temporary to help them escape the disaster?
I know with a certainty that Cori will find something, or someone that will complete her life. I've seen the book covers so I know she is pregnant later, but I wonder if she finds love? Or if she will come to carry Jo and Sable's child since I'm pretty sure that Jo offered up something that made her infertile when she saved all of those people at the SEC arena.
What will she face next as she moves onto a new position for the remainder of her draft? Will she be rewarded for her great sacrifice in saving so many lives with anything other than the Medal of Freedom?
I'm so curious to know what else is in James' research? What further will Merlin Munroe accomplish? Especially in her role as Herald of Magic? It is obvious more is coming.... I wonder if what Shay talked about so long ago has already passed, or if there is yet another great sacrifice or choice she has to make? I wonder if we will see him in her orbit again? What about the question her griffon mentor has asked she consider? What will that be?
June 9, 2022
It was okay but it should have been two books. Her at the orientation and the other working for the government. It was to rushed. The other books had one storyline that flowed this one squished everything together. Cory was great but unfortunately she is becoming to powerful. That is the trouble a lot author have by adding more power to their main characters making them almost on par to goddesses. Great writer let their main characters embrace their weakness. I will continue reading but I hope Cory loses some of her powers. As Cory has become more powerful she has become less relatable and the books redundant.
I also dislike the addition of the girl with down syndrome. That she could not keep her magic and live. That they had wholesale murder of those deemed unworthy of magic because birth defects or illness. I didn't like how the author solved this by forcibly taking magic from people all over world without their permission that the author (her world she built) felt was not mentally able to have magic. It smacked of eugenics. Why was this even in the book? It was just to show how kind hearted Cory was? It failed. It showed how she was just as ruthless as the government. She decided for millions that they would lose their magic and she would get rewarded for it. Epic failure.
I also dislike the addition of the girl with down syndrome. That she could not keep her magic and live. That they had wholesale murder of those deemed unworthy of magic because birth defects or illness. I didn't like how the author solved this by forcibly taking magic from people all over world without their permission that the author (her world she built) felt was not mentally able to have magic. It smacked of eugenics. Why was this even in the book? It was just to show how kind hearted Cory was? It failed. It showed how she was just as ruthless as the government. She decided for millions that they would lose their magic and she would get rewarded for it. Epic failure.
January 21, 2022
I really love this series
I read multiple books per week and don’t have time to review them all. But this series is worth the time.
First- the author is an excellent writer. This always makes a book more enjoyable. I have enjoyed many books where the writing wasn’t that great, but the plot was good enough to keep my interest. This has excellent writing ad plotting.
Second-Plot- great plotting! I approve of the things the heroine thinks of to get herself or others out of tight spots, without it seeming contrived or otherwise irritating. No need to roll my eyes during any part of this series.
Third- world-building! I really want to visit this world!
Fourth-Community! Excellent development of characters, their personalities and how they interact with each other.
I’ll be reading more by this author. Many thanks to her for her most enjoyable art!
I read multiple books per week and don’t have time to review them all. But this series is worth the time.
First- the author is an excellent writer. This always makes a book more enjoyable. I have enjoyed many books where the writing wasn’t that great, but the plot was good enough to keep my interest. This has excellent writing ad plotting.
Second-Plot- great plotting! I approve of the things the heroine thinks of to get herself or others out of tight spots, without it seeming contrived or otherwise irritating. No need to roll my eyes during any part of this series.
Third- world-building! I really want to visit this world!
Fourth-Community! Excellent development of characters, their personalities and how they interact with each other.
I’ll be reading more by this author. Many thanks to her for her most enjoyable art!
October 28, 2022
Cori Catastrophe strikes again!
Cori gets called up by the Mage draft and finds herself at a boot camp for all the undesirables. It was supposed to be a 1 month Orientation conference. Instead the draft board seems want to wipe all 11 of the participants out. The first one is eliminated in just minutes. Most of the unfortunate mages are there because they are criminals or delinquents, Cori is simply feared and another is a young arch-mage who has Downs Syndrome. Cori finds an unique way out of that situation only to get her 1st assignment in the State Department dealing with a treaty between the Americans, Japanese and Chinese. Cori is already persona non-grata with Japan and it doesn’t take her long to make an enemy of China as well.
Cori gets called up by the Mage draft and finds herself at a boot camp for all the undesirables. It was supposed to be a 1 month Orientation conference. Instead the draft board seems want to wipe all 11 of the participants out. The first one is eliminated in just minutes. Most of the unfortunate mages are there because they are criminals or delinquents, Cori is simply feared and another is a young arch-mage who has Downs Syndrome. Cori finds an unique way out of that situation only to get her 1st assignment in the State Department dealing with a treaty between the Americans, Japanese and Chinese. Cori is already persona non-grata with Japan and it doesn’t take her long to make an enemy of China as well.
January 9, 2023
This series is now a firm favourite and book 5 is the best so far. Cory now with her degree and starting her draft is thrust into danger and conspiracy right from the start. So lovely touching scenes early on with Bridget, then we start on the non stop action, fantastic creatures and international politics and intrigue. Cory's relationship with Carlion, Sable and Jo has evolved and deepened and her powers are even greater, and what an ending, heartstopping. Autumn Juliet gives a fabulous performance making the Audio a joy to listen too I was still listening at 3am. Worth more than 5 stars any day. More please
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