Aleron Eastaughffe is a billionaire griffin who knows what he wants…
Namely, a gorgeous city penthouse, a life of luxury, and the respect and admiration of his peers-–all the things he’s come to expect as one of the Eastaughffes. But when Aleron finds himself connected to a rag-tag group of shifters and forced to work alongside the most awkward yet utterly captivating human witch in all the realms… he realizes he might want something very different after all.
Spencer Walsh is a witch who knows where he belongs…
And that is alone, in his remote cabin, where there are no annoying people around to give him strange looks when he spends his days reading, or to complain when he gets hyper-focused on research and forgets they exist. But when an old friend needs help researching a mysterious set of runes, Spencer joins forces with a group of shifters–and one gorgeous, provoking griffin–and learns that the world might just be more accepting than he thought… and more dangerous than he ever dreamed.
If Aleron and Spencer want a chance at a future together, they’ll have to let go of what they think they know, and face some hard truths together…
The truth about the runes and the magic they hold.
The truth about what love and belonging really mean.
And the truth about how much they’ll compromise to make each other happy… and how hard they’ll fight to keep each other safe.
Macy Blake believes in unicorns and fairies, in moonbeams and stardust, and that happily ever after comes in all colors of the rainbow. When she’s not busy at the day job, she loses herself in paranormal romance, living vicariously through her favorite sexy fictional heroes. These days you can often find her pounding away at the keyboard, trying to capture the magic of her own worlds.
If you're a fan of Macy Blake's "Chosen One" universe, you'll definitely want to give all three of the books in this new "Chosen Champions" series a read.
Typically, in magical, paranormal fantasy stories, the romance can fall by the wayside, as authors primarily concentrate on the action.
And while this story did have an okay amount of action, Blake seemed to take a different tack by focusing a LOT of the book on the developing romance between the MC's and sacrificing some of the forward plot movement in their goal of Beating The Big Boss Bad Guy.
It was all good stuff, with Spencer spending loads more time getting to know the pack, a gigantic reunion of what felt like 100+ established characters at Augustus' island wedding, and bonding trips to Spencer's home in the woods. I just did miss there not being quite as much action as I'd anticipated.
I was patting myself on the back during the 4-day wedding scenes, though, as we were reintroduced to what felt like dozens upon dozens upon DOZENS of old characters, all of which I actually remembered. heh
One of the coolest things I found in the book was when Spencer was interacting with Aleron in his griffin form. The physical descriptions of the golden feathers and the lion "parts" gave me some great visuals. And a few laughs to boot.
[My take on Aleron in his human form...]
Other than both Aleron and Spencer being insanely likeable, I do have to admit that alpha mate Bailey was completely on point with his usual "Baily-ness", which continually made me laugh and smile.
The story had plenty of humor and feels, which I adored, plus a moderate amount of steam, so I have no complaints in those departments.
Overall, I'd rate the book at around 3.5 stars and I can't wait for Scout and Coal's story to come out and provide us with more info on the mysterious runes. And for The Big Boss Bad Guy to finally get his comeuppance.
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Another fantastic instalment in the Chosen Universe
I love the world Macy Blake has created in her Chosen Universe and I think this part of it with Logan's pack is shaping up to be my favourite set of stories.
Aleron and Spencer's romance wasn't anything like I'd been expecting, it was a beautiful journey to finding a home and learning how to put down roots.
On the face of it, they're such opposites and it was hard to guess how they'd ever be able to work long term.
But throw in some big movement on the main story arc, some careful and clever nudges from one of Spencer's witch friends, an undeniable connection which only strengthens the more they're together, and you get this.
There's plenty of appearances from the rest of the pack, guest appearances from a fair few of the Chosen one's mates, plus Sawyer himself, and visits from both Hellhounds and Jerrick pack members to keep all fans happy!
I've pre-ordered Scout's book but waiting until January next year is going to be hell!
I think if you don't like book one (Logan) that you will still enjoy the rest of the series. I think their pack is better as the books go on. I might have to reread book one to really see if it was just the mood i was in or if it was actually the book i didn't love.
as for this couple Spencer and Aleron were a great match, they needed the opposites to really see what they could bring to the table.
I want to know who the Oracle is as well as who the Big Bad Guy is... but maybe Scout and Coal's book will really round it this series out unless Dasan also has a book... maybe his love interest is the oracle....? so many theories so little time.. but next year come sooner so i can continue with this series!!
So entertaining, the plot was intriguing, fun and totally amusing, the dynamic between the main characters was absolutely sweet, I loved every moment!!! A formula well known and used in romcom worked brilliantly in this story! Congrats to Macy Blake!!!
On the audible side, another superb performance from Michael Dean, fully committed acting, I was pleased!!! Congratulations!!!
This is probably one of my most favorite worlds/universes and I always look forward to a new installment. And while I enjoyed the forward momentum and definitely some of the answers to the overall story arc we got in this installment, I didn't fully enjoy the book.
The romance did absolutely nothing for me. I didn't feel any spark between these two. Firstly because, well, Spencer just didn't seem to be wired that way. There were moments, but they were so few they almost got lost. My favorite part of PNR and mates is that drive, that need, the borderline obsession and that was just not here. By the end I was happy with the comfortable love that happened between them, but overall, it was just bland.
The rest though, good stuff. Finally some forward motion with the mystery and I loved all the cameos this story had. It's always fun to see everyone.
I'm definitely ready for the next one!! It already has a firey setup, wink, wink!
Have to admit I like to read about this charmingly quirky ragtag pack. It's a perfect escape if you're in the mood for light and easy without tipping into saccharine but with a bit of action.
This time we follow Aleron and Spencer. A billionaire, nearly royal griffin with a playboy past and a solitary, virgin hedge witch with an esoteric believe and a strong environmental awareness is an unlikely couple. Their worlds are so far away from each other it's not even an opposites-attract case. They both know that and that's surely one of the reasons why their become-acquainted with each other takes so much place and the action regarding the overall case comes so late in this book.
Yes, I would have preferred to see more action and a bit more progress there but then I would have had an even harder time to believe that there really is a future for those 2 guys. My main issue nevertheless is the characteristic of hedge witches. Seems to me they are not paranormal beings or magic wielding humans but some kind of late hippies without the free love attitude but a tendency for Fridays for Future. It's kind of strange to see such characters in a paranormal book but maybe I just didn't understand Macy Blake's intentions. Spencer's neighbor Merry seemed to fit much better into a paranormal universe but Spencer explicitly doesn't follow her way, but which way does he?
Guess I will be more satisfied with the next book again when it's about Coal and Scout. That certainly doesn't include talk about crystals, herbs and roots.
Macy Blake has stated that a goal with the Chosen Champion series is for it to be a standalone in the extensive universe the author has created. The books in this series do have to be read in order, as there is an overarching through plot. Objectively, this goal is accomplished, as all the pertinent information is presented and explained within. However, this third book in the series also includes many secondary characters from past books. Having read every book in the universe to date, I think there’s an added weight and bonus to having the background and knowledge, having watched the stories play out before. Again, it’s not necessary to have read the previous books in the other series before starting this one, so if you haven’t, this may be a good place to start and then circle back to the beginning if you so wish.
“True love is one of the most precious gifts the magic of our world provides.” I really do love this series and how with each swoony love story our amazing pack continues to grow stronger, closer while pieces are revealed but the answers we seek are still hidden. Aleron and Spencer were different from what I expected. I definitely fell for them both—who can resist Spencer’s insatiable curiosity and Aleron’s flair, not I that’s for sure—but this book had a different tone for me. I think it’s because Spencer is unlike anyone we’ve met so far and needs a unique approach. I really enjoyed how everything unfolded for these two. You may think it’s odd to say this with Aleron in mind but his and Spencer’s love story was soothing. Theirs is a beautiful journey that made me feel and left me with a new perspective. I absolutely need Scout’s book now though. I have a feeling that one will be explosive.
There are GAZILLION characters from the other series (that I DON'T read) coming here for a wedding and my head is still spinning, figuring out who's who *laugh*
Other than that, well, I like the romantic relationship progress in this one. Seems like Blake takes proper time for Aleron and Spencer since they're pretty different (in contrast to Logan/Bailey or Gideon/Taj). I also like Merry, Spencer's witch friend, since we need more bad-ass females in this series (too much testosterones, people! with all of the important characters marrying another guy *another laugh*)
Of course that sacrifices the development with the bad guys; the action is barely there, being kept near the end, and even that it's rather a bust (). But I've come to expected it now. I know that things will be revealed all in the last book (well, I hope).
Aleron and Spencer were a beautiful couple. They are drawn together from the very beginning, they can’t understand why and they both ignore it, choosing instead to build a friendship that deepens. They are complete opposites: Aleron being an outgoing playboy who loves to spend money on the finer things in life; and the inexperienced, witch who prefers the very simple life and being alone to being around people for any length of time whatsoever. Aleron helps bring Spencer out of his shell and gain confidence, while Spencer helps temper Aleron and shows him that not everything in life needs an ‘easy button’. I would consider this a bit of a slow burn.
Aleron is NOT a standalone and should be read as part of the Chosen Champions series of which is part of a much larger, multiple series arcing set of books. The story continues to move forward as our Champions attempt to find those responsible for some very dark and scary black magic on Earth. There’s a good set up for our book 4 couple who I didn’t see paired together before now but am very interested in reading about! I loved Aleron, and the entire universe this series and all her preceding ones encompass. There is a lot of lighthearted good humour and fun which had me chuckling throughout.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This book is beyond thrilling! It starts slow, focusing on characterisation and the beginning of the relationship between the Aleron and Spencer. These two endearing, charming men together set the tone, ensuring there is always the sweetness of their interactions to lighten the tension and foreboding created by their unknown enemy.
And then, the book picks up pace, with the romance and also the wider plotline. Aleron and Spencer become the wonderful couple they were always meant to be. They have come to rely on each other in a deep and harmonic way, feelings have deepened, and it’s very satisfying to see them grow closer and fall in love. What they have together is even more precious, considering the dangerous dark magic threatening all.
There are many secondary characters, most with essential parts to play and they enrich the story. I've gotten to know many of them through severally books, so I've come to care deeply for all. They have wonderful relationships and storylines and it’s impossible not to be invested in them and their future.
The suspense increases, the tiniest detail means something, and every clue could mean their salvation. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what will happen next. This is a very engaging book and I can always count on this author to take me out reality and throw me headfirst into the magic and mayhem that is this world she's created. Now, bring on the next book. Can't wait!
Somehow, this world that I’m already obsessed with keeps getting more and more fascinating with each book. Aleron was as fun as I imagined his story would be, and he and Spencer are absolutely adorable. Macy Blake expertly showed the gradual understanding and acceptance and compromise this pairing needed to get to their happy ending. This book also advances the investigation into the Nio/rune situation, and there are definitely some twists in that plot line I didn’t see coming. I am so intrigued and can’t wait to see how this unfolds throughout the rest of the series. And Scout and Coal, what the heck is going on there?! Can’t wait for Scout’s story!
Sweet slow burn 😍 I really really loved how the romance was paced. Spenced needs/ that and I loved how Aleron went about gaining his heart and trust ^^ On the plot hand, I'm extremely curios about the oracle, hihihihi, I have a theory but I don't think I'm right.
Plots thicken and bad guys still plague the pack but live finds a way of bringing people together. I liked that both Spencer and Aleron grew as people together.
Always good to see all the other couples and root for Alley Cat and Spencer's HEA. We're getting closer to the end of this series and that's sad but maybe another spin off???
Omg so good, it’s a love story these two ticked my boxes sweet and so enjoyable definitely a recommended read this one is about a male witch that really works well. Think this is my favourite of the series.
It's like a 3.5 but I wanted to be generous and give it 4 stars because I enjoy this series. I loved that Spencer was a witch, my kind of witch. The way it was explained the way he went about his rituals was great and it shows Ms. Blake is either in the craft or did some awesome research - only thing that got me was the sage/smudging because you know, close practice if it's white sage, unless Spencer is Native American and I'm not sure that was ever mentioned. I don't know how I feel about Spencer being so sheltered that he'd never even kissed a person before. Honestly it just made him come off a little odd to me, almost like he is on the spectrum because he doesn't understand social cues and such. He reminds me a little of Sheldon from TBBT. I don't know, it's probably just me. Another reason why it's a 3.5 read is because when they sat down to have their whole "meeting of the brains"and they were trying to put the pieces together - I honestly felt like it was pointless. In the end though, I really did like them together, I thought they were so sweet and tender, and their connection was just so soft and squishy sometimes, I was glad to see it.
Now, was I surprised to see what happened with Nio? Sure. When they finally came up with the next thread to follow on this mystery, I literally went "wow, duh, of course". So on that point, well done. Next up I suppose is Scout aka Jack who has always been somewhat invisible through the Chose One Universe and Coal, or will it be Dasan and I'm almost sure the Oracle - btw, I still haven't been able to figure out who that is. In any case, I do love this series, but not as much as the other ones.
Also, if anyone has any information on anything she has written about Sawyer and Draco and the babies, please let me know.
Aleron stands as the third book in Macy Blake’s Chosen Champions series, the fourth series in the Chosen One universe. Ideally, you’ll have read all of the books up to this point, but what’s essential is that you’ve read the previous two books in this series, Logan and Gideon. There is an overarching story arc, so you need to read them in order, not as standalones.
Ms. Blake abhors spoilers, so I’m going to say very little about the plot of this one. What I will tell you is that Ms. Blake depicts an authentic opposites attract romance between two men, Aleron Eastaughffe, the griffin shifter related to Eduard (from The Chosen One series) and Victor (from the Magical Mates series), and Spencer Walsh, a human, who have great chemistry. She creates both men in a multi-dimensional way, and they are endearing and compelling in equal measure. I enjoyed their interplay, and I adored how their love builds and expands in a natural, plausible way.
As usual with the books in this universe, the romance is rooted in a larger action/adventure plot involving many supernatural elements and creatures. She does an excellent job of balancing the two so that one doesn't overshadow the other.
I’ve enjoyed everything about this paranormal universe of stories, and Aleron is no exception. If you haven’t jumped into this world yet, I highly encourage that you do so. For the best experience, follow Ms. Blake’s recommended reading order (found on her website) and start from Sweet Nothings, the prequel story.
This third book in the Chosen Champions series. In my opinion it should be read in order. And the Chosen One series is integrated into the series too Aleron sexy griffin shifter and member of Logan's protector pack has an attraction to the quiet and introverted earth witch Spencer.. Spencer's genius brain is desperately trying to solve the riddle that is Nio. The creature who's evil power caused terrible injuries to members of Aleron's pack and innocent creatures and humans alike. Spencer does not understand why Aleron's presence brings comfort. they are not from the same world he is a loner who is tied to his land, Aleron is much more worldly and tied to his pack. How can they work with the pack and address the very real threat that Nio brings to the realm. And can the two men overcome their differences to claim the love the goddess has put in their path, and save each other from Nio's nefarious plans. An excellent new installation of this Chosen Campion world. The characters are well written , the story well paced, the action riveting and the sex hot!!! Please ensure you read at least the first two books in this series first if not the complete chosen one series as the stories are intrinsically linked to each other. You won't be disappointed. Well done Macy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Another fun fantasy/romance romp from Macy Blake! Consistent quality with the others in the Chosen universe.
The one issue that kept coming up for me was characters "smudging." The use of various types of incenses and burning herbs to purify and/or consecrate spaces has been common throughout human history and cultures, and is therefore okay to use for fictional purposes. The use of the term "smudging" is not, as it is specific to closed Native American spiritual practices. The choice of sage as the purifying herb is also problematic, as it is a sacred herb purification in many native cultures, but not used for burning in historical European practices. It would be better to choose a different herb to avoid cultural appropriation.
That aside, I did love Spencer, and enjoyed seeing his relationship with Aleron blossom. It was very sweet, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC in exchange for my unbiased review (though I was so late in leaving the review, I read the book on KU instead anyway).
I received an Advanced Reader Copy and this is my honest review of Aleron.
Aleron is the third installment in the Chosen Champions series set in the Chosen One universe. While it could be enjoyed on its own, it would be best to read following Logan (book 1) and Gideon (book 2). Even better, if you really want to understand the universe it is set in, just follow the reading order suggested by the author. I just love that universe and all the characters we get a glimpse of in later books.
As for this book itself, it focuses on the love story of Aleron, a billionaire griffin shifter, and Spencer, a solitary witch. It’s such a gentle love story. Aleron was just so attentive with his gentle giant Spencer, and Spencer returned the favor quite well. I felt their connection deeply and nothing felt rushed. An example of that gentleness: Spencer leaned his head into Aleron’s touch. “I just want to take good care of you,” Spencer whispered. “I want you to like it here. I want you to like me.” “I do.”
The book also follows the ongoing arc of the series (and the Chosen One universe), so we now have more clues pertaining to an investigation involving the preternatural world. The book doesn’t end in a cliffhanger, but the investigation part is definitely not concluded and will resume in the next installment. Which I will read, of course, since I can’t get enough of this universe.
Never thought this would happen but for now, I could not finish this. I’ve read all the books in this series and a couple others but there are so many characters from other series (sorry I will never read the Chosen One series because I can’t get into multiple mates) and I couldn’t keep track. I made it to 27% and just didn’t care about either MC. Coal and Scout seem interesting though so I guess I’ll try to pick it uo back then.
Be prepared to not stop reading until you get to the end. Aleron and Spencer's story will take you on a ride like no other and one that you'll enjoy every minute of it. We find out a few interesting things about the one they are searching for and more. So enjoyable!
Spencer needed a special kind of person to care for and love him and Aleron is just that person! Now, all they have to do is realize that they can be together if they both can learn to compromise!