What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dreams Trilogy: Witches and Warlocks #1
Dreams of Darkness and Desire
Kira Lockwood has moved in with her best friend, developed a loving relationship with her boyfriend, and is excelling in her dance classes. Everything was perfect until she is suddenly plagued by unusual dreams and nightmares. And to make things more complicated, the man who haunts those very dreams has just moved in down the street. Their attraction is undeniable, but she struggles to understand why he torments her at night while she sleeps. Her dreams are erotic, shifting from seduction to drowning, burial, and abduction in the span of seconds.
But dreams aren’t real…or are they?
Blake Michaelson is a handsome and powerful centuries-old warlock. He and his three brothers have moved to New Orleans in search of one thing - Kira Lockwood. Though she does not know it, she is a descendent of the first Supra Virtutem, a witch with the ability to harness the ultimate power. He and his brothers have spent a lifetime, hunting others like them, and claiming their magic as their own. To ensure their immortality, Blake must complete the Order of Three: claim her body, take her blood, and end her life.
Kira will not ascend and harness her power until her 21st birthday but her magic lives within her and her light recognizes the darkness. Will the power within her be enough to save her? Or will Blake complete his mission and steal her power before she steals his heart?
But dreams aren’t real…or are they?
Blake Michaelson is a handsome and powerful centuries-old warlock. He and his three brothers have moved to New Orleans in search of one thing - Kira Lockwood. Though she does not know it, she is a descendent of the first Supra Virtutem, a witch with the ability to harness the ultimate power. He and his brothers have spent a lifetime, hunting others like them, and claiming their magic as their own. To ensure their immortality, Blake must complete the Order of Three: claim her body, take her blood, and end her life.
Kira will not ascend and harness her power until her 21st birthday but her magic lives within her and her light recognizes the darkness. Will the power within her be enough to save her? Or will Blake complete his mission and steal her power before she steals his heart?
491 pages, ebook
First published October 26, 2021
136 people are currently reading
3094 people want to read
About the author
B.L. Cagle
1 book135 followersB.L. is a small-town girl from Lewisburg, Tennessee. She currently lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughter (Radio Personality) and their rescued fur baby. She is also a proud Mom of an Army MP.
She is a daytime VAMPIRE and works alongside some very wonderful Doctors and Residents. She is a huge Tennessee Volunteers fan, loves animals, and both dirt track and drag racing.
When she's not writing or reading, you can find her on the trails riding her RZR with her family, or at muscle car shows.
She is a lover of hard rock and metal music, but also some of the in-between. She loves the 80's cheesy movies along with the 80's HairBands. She loves concerts and traveling (whenever possible)
She also loves connecting with other authors and voice narrators, but most importantly, she loves getting to know the readers on a personal level. (SHE ABSOLUTELY ADORES HER READERS)
The love of writing began in the 4th grade after winning a short story contest, and has continued writing short stories and poems for her family, and friends.
After having recurring dreams/nightmares (and still does) she began writing them down, turning them into a chilling tale leading into the paranormal world, and how dreams can overtake the mind.
BUT DREAMS AREN'T REAL. ARE THEY?
You can visit her website: BLCagle.com and sign up for the Newsletter and keep up with the news, upcoming events, sneak peeks at the upcoming novels, and more on the blog.
Follow BL Cagle on Instagram and Tok Tok @blcagleauthor_sjbrown
She is a daytime VAMPIRE and works alongside some very wonderful Doctors and Residents. She is a huge Tennessee Volunteers fan, loves animals, and both dirt track and drag racing.
When she's not writing or reading, you can find her on the trails riding her RZR with her family, or at muscle car shows.
She is a lover of hard rock and metal music, but also some of the in-between. She loves the 80's cheesy movies along with the 80's HairBands. She loves concerts and traveling (whenever possible)
She also loves connecting with other authors and voice narrators, but most importantly, she loves getting to know the readers on a personal level. (SHE ABSOLUTELY ADORES HER READERS)
The love of writing began in the 4th grade after winning a short story contest, and has continued writing short stories and poems for her family, and friends.
After having recurring dreams/nightmares (and still does) she began writing them down, turning them into a chilling tale leading into the paranormal world, and how dreams can overtake the mind.
BUT DREAMS AREN'T REAL. ARE THEY?
You can visit her website: BLCagle.com and sign up for the Newsletter and keep up with the news, upcoming events, sneak peeks at the upcoming novels, and more on the blog.
Follow BL Cagle on Instagram and Tok Tok @blcagleauthor_sjbrown
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
October 26, 2021
So… I’m honestly speechless because I have no idea what I just read. It wasn’t bad but this is not my area of expertise so I’m confused. The area being, if Inception was sponsored by Pornhub.
So looking at the name and the description of this book you’d expect two things. Witches and smut. Well, you get both of them, kinda. It was like sleeping with a man, you know what I mean? It was done but it wasn’t done properly so to speak. First of all, the magic and the use of it were in the background. I would like it more, and would probably give it a four-star rating if we got more in-depth info about the magic system and saw it on the action. I honestly don’t know the limits of their powers which is a problem.
Second, the smut. Cut to the chase, you don’t get any action until the 70% mark. The only action you get before that is Blake masturbating to the ‘memory’ of Kira masturbating to the thought of him. This sentence alone can be used as a tagline for this book. Then you come to the real deal and guess what? There is no foreplay. They just get to it. He puts his sausage on her bread. Straight up. Sir, if I wanted to know about a relationship without foreplay I wouldn’t dump my ex.
There is not much to talk about the characters. Vincent and Armand, part of Blake’s witch-hunting boyband, were absent for most of the book. We only met them once and they were gone. I honestly have no idea why they were a part of this story. Nadia, Kira’s friend, was the same. She was just there.
Then there is Larz who is Blake’s closest ‘brother’ since he was always around him and inside his head. He was a joy to be around and if he wasn’t a blondie, I’d marry his ass. Then there is Kat who was dating Larz but she just didn’t know it. Like there are some certain things in life like gravity, death, how everyone is an Adele stan by default, and how Kat is the biggest simp for Larz. They were just so cute I want to scream my head off.
Moving on to the main characters, first Blake. He was hot. I couldn’t help but imagine him as Damon Salvatore so naturally, I was head over heels in love with him. He was also villain gone good which could’ve been handled better in the book.
Then there is our horny heroine, Kira. I honestly do think she had some loose screws. First of all, she was horny all the time. My girl was not afraid to ride Casper the not-so-friendly ghost in the middle of the road. No, my friends, not in the car. Literally on the road. She was so horny, I’d feel uncomfortable if I was in the same room with her and an electric toothbrush. After reading about her and her fantasies and how she was down to anything just to get some, I’m changing my contact lens solution to holy water.
She was also weird. She saw dreams and lost her shit about hiding them. They were just dreams! Surely Kira’s closest friend in the whole world and her boyfriend of years wouldn't judge her because of them? The dreams were mostly gruesome and scary as fuck so the worst-case scenario would be them suggesting Kira to go to therapy. But no, she just lost her shit over them and hid her tears and whatever. I saw no reason for her to keep her traumatic dreams a secret especially since she lost her parents and probably needed therapy anyway.
But truth to be told, I actually liked this book. It was fast and fun to read. Plus after the plot twist at the end, I just have to read the second book.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
So looking at the name and the description of this book you’d expect two things. Witches and smut. Well, you get both of them, kinda. It was like sleeping with a man, you know what I mean? It was done but it wasn’t done properly so to speak. First of all, the magic and the use of it were in the background. I would like it more, and would probably give it a four-star rating if we got more in-depth info about the magic system and saw it on the action. I honestly don’t know the limits of their powers which is a problem.
Second, the smut. Cut to the chase, you don’t get any action until the 70% mark. The only action you get before that is Blake masturbating to the ‘memory’ of Kira masturbating to the thought of him. This sentence alone can be used as a tagline for this book. Then you come to the real deal and guess what? There is no foreplay. They just get to it. He puts his sausage on her bread. Straight up. Sir, if I wanted to know about a relationship without foreplay I wouldn’t dump my ex.
There is not much to talk about the characters. Vincent and Armand, part of Blake’s witch-hunting boyband, were absent for most of the book. We only met them once and they were gone. I honestly have no idea why they were a part of this story. Nadia, Kira’s friend, was the same. She was just there.
Then there is Larz who is Blake’s closest ‘brother’ since he was always around him and inside his head. He was a joy to be around and if he wasn’t a blondie, I’d marry his ass. Then there is Kat who was dating Larz but she just didn’t know it. Like there are some certain things in life like gravity, death, how everyone is an Adele stan by default, and how Kat is the biggest simp for Larz. They were just so cute I want to scream my head off.
Moving on to the main characters, first Blake. He was hot. I couldn’t help but imagine him as Damon Salvatore so naturally, I was head over heels in love with him. He was also villain gone good which could’ve been handled better in the book.
Then there is our horny heroine, Kira. I honestly do think she had some loose screws. First of all, she was horny all the time. My girl was not afraid to ride Casper the not-so-friendly ghost in the middle of the road. No, my friends, not in the car. Literally on the road. She was so horny, I’d feel uncomfortable if I was in the same room with her and an electric toothbrush. After reading about her and her fantasies and how she was down to anything just to get some, I’m changing my contact lens solution to holy water.
She was also weird. She saw dreams and lost her shit about hiding them. They were just dreams! Surely Kira’s closest friend in the whole world and her boyfriend of years wouldn't judge her because of them? The dreams were mostly gruesome and scary as fuck so the worst-case scenario would be them suggesting Kira to go to therapy. But no, she just lost her shit over them and hid her tears and whatever. I saw no reason for her to keep her traumatic dreams a secret especially since she lost her parents and probably needed therapy anyway.
But truth to be told, I actually liked this book. It was fast and fun to read. Plus after the plot twist at the end, I just have to read the second book.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2023
THE FIRST BOOK IN THE "DREAMS" SERIES IS NOW AVAILABLE TO ORDER ON AMAZON in Hardback, Paperback, eBook, and on AUDIBLE, narrated by the phenomenal STINA NIELSEN, the narrator for both, SARAH J MAAS' "A Court of Silver Flames" and JENNIFER L ARMENTROUT's "From Blood and Ash" series. I am super excited about this.
BOOK EXCERPT: Chapter 24
The sun was rising, but the sky was still bleak and gray. The clouds and the rain persisted long after they’d completed the ritual. On the front porch, Blake lounged on the daybed swing with one knee pulled up, his arm resting across it. His other leg draped over the edge, his foot planted to the ground, pushing the swing in a lazy glide. He kept his gaze steady on the rain hitting and bouncing at the edge of the porch, hoping the steady patter would calm his nerves.
It wasn’t working.
He couldn’t feel her anymore. That light was gone. Khalida had taken every last drop. What replaced it was hollow and dim. He drowned in that pit, and whatever emotions he’d developed for her died along with him. He was reborn into something darker than before, leaving him to struggle with the memory of her light.
Larz stepped out, two low ball tumblers of scotch in hand. “You never slept.”
“I had a lot on my mind.”
“Like what? Almost dying? I mean, you kind of did that twice yesterday. So yeah, I guess you can say you had an eventful day,” he joked, taking a seat at the opposite end, lounging back far, one arm stretched back behind his head.
“It wasn’t supposed to happen like that.”
Larz took a slow drink from his glass. “You mean with Colin?”
“I wasn’t ready.”
“Bloody hell! I don’t think any of us were ready for that.”
“The Blood Oath is the Second Order. I should have made her mine first. What was he doing there?”
Larz pursed his lips, shaking his head casually. “I’m not sure. Outside of the timing, everything went as planned. The details may have been all wrong, but the broad strokes of it overall were right. She was there. Check. Colin shot you. Double-check. She believed that I had leukemia, felt really guilty about her boyfriend shooting you, and donated her super witchy blood. Triple check,” he said, holding out his hand, counting each check with the flip of a finger.
Blake finally took a sip from his glass, his eyes roaming, trying to piece together the events of yesterday morning. “She showed up in her pajamas.”
Larz narrowed his eyes, looking to his brother, unsure of what he was getting at. “Okay, and?”
“It was like she rushed over here straight out of bed. Why would she do that?” Blake turned to his brother, who only shrugged his shoulders. He looked back to the rain, searching further into his memory, relaxing back into the pillows.
“I don’t know. I hadn’t even thought about it,” Larz confessed as a smile crept over his features, holding back a laugh. “Maybe she was dreaming about you, woke up, and just couldn’t wait for the real thing.”
“No . . . I wasn’t in her dreams that night.”
“Just because you weren’t magically invading her dreams that particular night, doesn’t mean she wasn’t dreaming about you,” Larz informed, kicking back the rest of his drink. “Trust me.”
Blake mulled the thought over, suddenly straightening. “My dragon,” he blurted out, looking back at his brother, his hand resting across his chest. “Shortly after she arrived, she jumped on me, pulling up my shirt-”
“Aha!” Larz snickered, cutting him off. “Called it!”
Blake shook his head. “No, she was looking for my tattoo. She said,” he narrowed his eyes trying to remember, “she said it was the same.”
“The same?” Larz rolled the words around on his tongue, trying to make sense of them. “What does that mean?”
“I have no idea,” he answered, dragging a hand across his face, pushing out a heavy whoosh of air. “I swear, the more time I spend with her, the more confused I feel.”
Larz went quiet, his expression becoming unusually passive.
“What?”
“Nothing.”
“You’re a fucking bad liar.”
Larz took a moment, working his jaw as he got up from the swing. He leaned back against the porch railing to face his brother straight on as he contemplated his words. “I’ve had to tell you quite a few times lately to keep those walls up,” he explained, watching for Blake’s reaction. “I didn’t realize how much she had gotten to you until yesterday.”
Blake took in a sobering breath, knowing exactly what Larz had seen. “You don’t have to worry about that anymore. It was just her magic.”
“Are you sure about that? Because I’m not?”
“I’m sure. Her magic sensed me. It tried to protect her by making me care.”
“What if it wasn’t her magic? What if it’s just you?”
Blake killed his drink and stood up, facing his brother head-on. “For a moment there, I thought the same damn thing, but last night Khalida reminded me why I always gravitated to the dark. Why I’ve done so many unforgivable things in my life.” He paused, looking back out to the rain. “It’s because my heart is black.”
“You may gravitate to the dark, but it doesn’t mean your heart is. People with black hearts don’t know how to love. I know what I saw, and I think you love this girl.”
Blake placed his hands on Larz’s shoulders and grinned. “First, I don’t even know her, to love her. Second, I don’t know how to love her. And third . . . that’s a good thing, because I’m going to kill her.”
http://BLCagle.com
Follow me on:
Instagram: @blcagleauthor_sjbrownauthor
TikTok: @blcagleauthor_sjbrownauthor
FaceBook: BLCagle Author Page
Pinterest: @blcagleauthor
Twitter: @blcagleauthor
BOOK EXCERPT: Chapter 24
The sun was rising, but the sky was still bleak and gray. The clouds and the rain persisted long after they’d completed the ritual. On the front porch, Blake lounged on the daybed swing with one knee pulled up, his arm resting across it. His other leg draped over the edge, his foot planted to the ground, pushing the swing in a lazy glide. He kept his gaze steady on the rain hitting and bouncing at the edge of the porch, hoping the steady patter would calm his nerves.
It wasn’t working.
He couldn’t feel her anymore. That light was gone. Khalida had taken every last drop. What replaced it was hollow and dim. He drowned in that pit, and whatever emotions he’d developed for her died along with him. He was reborn into something darker than before, leaving him to struggle with the memory of her light.
Larz stepped out, two low ball tumblers of scotch in hand. “You never slept.”
“I had a lot on my mind.”
“Like what? Almost dying? I mean, you kind of did that twice yesterday. So yeah, I guess you can say you had an eventful day,” he joked, taking a seat at the opposite end, lounging back far, one arm stretched back behind his head.
“It wasn’t supposed to happen like that.”
Larz took a slow drink from his glass. “You mean with Colin?”
“I wasn’t ready.”
“Bloody hell! I don’t think any of us were ready for that.”
“The Blood Oath is the Second Order. I should have made her mine first. What was he doing there?”
Larz pursed his lips, shaking his head casually. “I’m not sure. Outside of the timing, everything went as planned. The details may have been all wrong, but the broad strokes of it overall were right. She was there. Check. Colin shot you. Double-check. She believed that I had leukemia, felt really guilty about her boyfriend shooting you, and donated her super witchy blood. Triple check,” he said, holding out his hand, counting each check with the flip of a finger.
Blake finally took a sip from his glass, his eyes roaming, trying to piece together the events of yesterday morning. “She showed up in her pajamas.”
Larz narrowed his eyes, looking to his brother, unsure of what he was getting at. “Okay, and?”
“It was like she rushed over here straight out of bed. Why would she do that?” Blake turned to his brother, who only shrugged his shoulders. He looked back to the rain, searching further into his memory, relaxing back into the pillows.
“I don’t know. I hadn’t even thought about it,” Larz confessed as a smile crept over his features, holding back a laugh. “Maybe she was dreaming about you, woke up, and just couldn’t wait for the real thing.”
“No . . . I wasn’t in her dreams that night.”
“Just because you weren’t magically invading her dreams that particular night, doesn’t mean she wasn’t dreaming about you,” Larz informed, kicking back the rest of his drink. “Trust me.”
Blake mulled the thought over, suddenly straightening. “My dragon,” he blurted out, looking back at his brother, his hand resting across his chest. “Shortly after she arrived, she jumped on me, pulling up my shirt-”
“Aha!” Larz snickered, cutting him off. “Called it!”
Blake shook his head. “No, she was looking for my tattoo. She said,” he narrowed his eyes trying to remember, “she said it was the same.”
“The same?” Larz rolled the words around on his tongue, trying to make sense of them. “What does that mean?”
“I have no idea,” he answered, dragging a hand across his face, pushing out a heavy whoosh of air. “I swear, the more time I spend with her, the more confused I feel.”
Larz went quiet, his expression becoming unusually passive.
“What?”
“Nothing.”
“You’re a fucking bad liar.”
Larz took a moment, working his jaw as he got up from the swing. He leaned back against the porch railing to face his brother straight on as he contemplated his words. “I’ve had to tell you quite a few times lately to keep those walls up,” he explained, watching for Blake’s reaction. “I didn’t realize how much she had gotten to you until yesterday.”
Blake took in a sobering breath, knowing exactly what Larz had seen. “You don’t have to worry about that anymore. It was just her magic.”
“Are you sure about that? Because I’m not?”
“I’m sure. Her magic sensed me. It tried to protect her by making me care.”
“What if it wasn’t her magic? What if it’s just you?”
Blake killed his drink and stood up, facing his brother head-on. “For a moment there, I thought the same damn thing, but last night Khalida reminded me why I always gravitated to the dark. Why I’ve done so many unforgivable things in my life.” He paused, looking back out to the rain. “It’s because my heart is black.”
“You may gravitate to the dark, but it doesn’t mean your heart is. People with black hearts don’t know how to love. I know what I saw, and I think you love this girl.”
Blake placed his hands on Larz’s shoulders and grinned. “First, I don’t even know her, to love her. Second, I don’t know how to love her. And third . . . that’s a good thing, because I’m going to kill her.”
http://BLCagle.com
Follow me on:
Instagram: @blcagleauthor_sjbrownauthor
TikTok: @blcagleauthor_sjbrownauthor
FaceBook: BLCagle Author Page
Pinterest: @blcagleauthor
Twitter: @blcagleauthor
October 10, 2021
HOLEY CRAP ON A CRACKER!!!
Have you ever read a book that was so good you could not wait to tell everyone you know… and don’t, about how good it was?
I can now officially say that! Which is why I am writing this review in the middle of the night while everyone in my house is asleep. Because, it was that damn good!
That ending?!?! Oh my heart. I need book two more than I need air to breath. If I could give this book ten stars, instead of five, I would!!! Why you ask? Ohhhhhhh how I can’t wait to tell you!
Reading this book is like watching inception for the first time. After you finish reading it, you want to start it again just so you can go back and catch everything you missed the first time. It’s bloody brilliant! It makes you question what is real and what is a dream…. Or if it was ever a dream at all. AHHHHH!!!!
And these characters!!! Kira is a sweet, hardworking dancer and Blake is a 400 year old baddie. First can I just say Blake is my new favorite book boyfriend of all time. (He gives off that Anti-Hero vibe like a freaking lover.) Also, I really want to see this series continue past Kira and Blake because I want to see what happens with another certain pair in the book. O_o
All I want to do is gush about this book and then rave about needing book two NOW. So, just do yourself a favor and go read it. THEN we will talk. I have so many feelings that need to be shared!!!
Have you ever read a book that was so good you could not wait to tell everyone you know… and don’t, about how good it was?
I can now officially say that! Which is why I am writing this review in the middle of the night while everyone in my house is asleep. Because, it was that damn good!
That ending?!?! Oh my heart. I need book two more than I need air to breath. If I could give this book ten stars, instead of five, I would!!! Why you ask? Ohhhhhhh how I can’t wait to tell you!
Reading this book is like watching inception for the first time. After you finish reading it, you want to start it again just so you can go back and catch everything you missed the first time. It’s bloody brilliant! It makes you question what is real and what is a dream…. Or if it was ever a dream at all. AHHHHH!!!!
And these characters!!! Kira is a sweet, hardworking dancer and Blake is a 400 year old baddie. First can I just say Blake is my new favorite book boyfriend of all time. (He gives off that Anti-Hero vibe like a freaking lover.) Also, I really want to see this series continue past Kira and Blake because I want to see what happens with another certain pair in the book. O_o
All I want to do is gush about this book and then rave about needing book two NOW. So, just do yourself a favor and go read it. THEN we will talk. I have so many feelings that need to be shared!!!
October 22, 2021
This was an ARC given to me by Netgalley for an honest review.
Out of those who have reviewed this book so far, I am going to have the unpopular opinion which I’ll share below.
When I first read the description, I knew this book was for me! It was dark, there was romance, magic, and mystery. I loved the vibe I was getting so I knew I had to read it. But as I kept reading my opinion changed.
Starting with what the author did well, she hooks you in talking about this mysterious “him” and quick tension building up making you want to find out who this man is and why Kira is so attracted to him. She also creates this character that we don’t know anything about yet, but are Hooked and wanting to learn more. She has these dreams that are mysterious and her mystery man leaves a phantom touch in her palm every now and then. Its sets up the book nicely. The author also leaves us with a cliff hanger, but it is done in a way that is well written. Not making you mad that you don’t know what is going to happen next, but knowing there will be a next book where you find out.
However, what I did not enjoy about the book outweighed what I did enjoy. One being that the pace was very, very, slow. It ended up being hard to get into because you really have no idea what is going on. And when I say you don’t know what is going on, you pretty much don’t know the purpose or plot of the story. From the book description I feel that sums up the book right there. All we know is that Kira is super powerful, Blake is a warlock that develops feelings for Kira, Kira develops feelings for him, they do this frustrating flirting dance that is slow, Blake has to take her body, blood, and kill her to complete the oath, there is a shadow man (who is it Blake or is it not Blake), and that Kira is having weird dreams but we don't know if they are real or not. In no way am I trying to beat this book up, but there is nothing keeping the reader wanting to read because we get nothing. I could not wait for the book to be finished because I felt I was reading forever and that it was never ending with unwanted details. The book could have been 200 pages shorter if some parts that were repeated were taken out.
I just wish something spectacular would have happened that would have made this book worth the read. I give it 2 out of 5 stars because the beginning and ending were written nicely, but it was disappointing as a reader that I did not get any answers from the million questions I had. Even though I know there will probably be a sequel, this book didn't grab my attention enough to want to read the next one.
Out of those who have reviewed this book so far, I am going to have the unpopular opinion which I’ll share below.
When I first read the description, I knew this book was for me! It was dark, there was romance, magic, and mystery. I loved the vibe I was getting so I knew I had to read it. But as I kept reading my opinion changed.
Starting with what the author did well, she hooks you in talking about this mysterious “him” and quick tension building up making you want to find out who this man is and why Kira is so attracted to him. She also creates this character that we don’t know anything about yet, but are Hooked and wanting to learn more. She has these dreams that are mysterious and her mystery man leaves a phantom touch in her palm every now and then. Its sets up the book nicely. The author also leaves us with a cliff hanger, but it is done in a way that is well written. Not making you mad that you don’t know what is going to happen next, but knowing there will be a next book where you find out.
However, what I did not enjoy about the book outweighed what I did enjoy. One being that the pace was very, very, slow. It ended up being hard to get into because you really have no idea what is going on. And when I say you don’t know what is going on, you pretty much don’t know the purpose or plot of the story. From the book description I feel that sums up the book right there. All we know is that Kira is super powerful, Blake is a warlock that develops feelings for Kira, Kira develops feelings for him, they do this frustrating flirting dance that is slow, Blake has to take her body, blood, and kill her to complete the oath, there is a shadow man (who is it Blake or is it not Blake), and that Kira is having weird dreams but we don't know if they are real or not. In no way am I trying to beat this book up, but there is nothing keeping the reader wanting to read because we get nothing. I could not wait for the book to be finished because I felt I was reading forever and that it was never ending with unwanted details. The book could have been 200 pages shorter if some parts that were repeated were taken out.
I just wish something spectacular would have happened that would have made this book worth the read. I give it 2 out of 5 stars because the beginning and ending were written nicely, but it was disappointing as a reader that I did not get any answers from the million questions I had. Even though I know there will probably be a sequel, this book didn't grab my attention enough to want to read the next one.
June 8, 2021
B.L. Cagle’s debut novel is a rollercoaster of emotions from a slow, torturous climb to the pinnacle only to plummet you into a death spiral.
Her story includes many heart-rending moments coupled with the undeniable sexual tension between the two main characters as they battle their base natures, the secrets they are keeping, and the decisions they make with far-reaching implications. Throw in some evil wizardry and a coming of age witch of the century, and watch out.
All this plays out in the sultry city of New Orleans, a place where the mystical congregate and the battle for power consumes. Cagle frequently ramps up the fear factor only to pull the plug before its ultimate culmination leaving you hanging and looking over your shoulder and avoiding the mirrors. It is the stuff of nightmares, begging the question, what happens when her main character Kira’s soul, reaches out to touch another, and all she finds is the void? Is she at risk of losing her soul?
As Kira’s power increases, her encounters with Blake’s darks side also increase and then a window to the past is opened and everything screws sideways into deep and darker danger.
The adrenaline rush and the crushing weight of her dreams will haunt you.
Just remember to breathe.
“It was the mirror. The mirror was breathing.”
“It’s okay to be afraid...”
“Kira’s power has come forth.”
Her story includes many heart-rending moments coupled with the undeniable sexual tension between the two main characters as they battle their base natures, the secrets they are keeping, and the decisions they make with far-reaching implications. Throw in some evil wizardry and a coming of age witch of the century, and watch out.
All this plays out in the sultry city of New Orleans, a place where the mystical congregate and the battle for power consumes. Cagle frequently ramps up the fear factor only to pull the plug before its ultimate culmination leaving you hanging and looking over your shoulder and avoiding the mirrors. It is the stuff of nightmares, begging the question, what happens when her main character Kira’s soul, reaches out to touch another, and all she finds is the void? Is she at risk of losing her soul?
As Kira’s power increases, her encounters with Blake’s darks side also increase and then a window to the past is opened and everything screws sideways into deep and darker danger.
The adrenaline rush and the crushing weight of her dreams will haunt you.
Just remember to breathe.
“It was the mirror. The mirror was breathing.”
“It’s okay to be afraid...”
“Kira’s power has come forth.”
October 14, 2021
My brain is angry at me right now and demanding to know just what the heck I've put it through.
Speechless. I'm speechless. Honestly, I'm not someone who really minds cliffhangers, but I still like getting a heads up. So, here's my PSA for you: THIS BOOK ENDS ON A CLIFFY. There was even a chapter called "How Will This End" near the end, right around the time when I started losing my mind because there was less than 10% left and things just kept escalating. I legit though B.L. was actively trolling us readers. That chapter title was such a tease. I legitimately stopped and laughed when I saw it.
This book had me hooked right from the beginning. I'd been wanting to read something spooky (it is spooky season after all), so I couldn't have stumbled upon this title at a more opportune time. It was not overly scary, but had more of a psychological horror vibe to it, which is the type I prefer.
All throughout the book there were these instances where Kira, our MC, was just out and about, doing her thing, only for something horrible to happen. It was very Inception like. I wouldn't know anything was amiss until reality turned into a nightmare. There was a slight, constant undercurrent of tension bred from the fact that at any given point it was impossible to know whether Kira was inside a dream or not. And that really helped in feeding and building a sense of dread, and keeping me on edge. It was all very unsettling.
At the same time, the pacing had a very sinuous quality to it, like it meandered along–it very nicely matched the New Orleans hot, humid summer setting–almost imperceptibly building momentum. It was like it was trying to lull me into a false sense of security, make me lower my guard, only to catch me by surprise all over again when normalcy devolved into nightmare. Of course, eventually the build-up reached its peak, everything went to actual Hell, and then–the dreaded cliffhanger.
The contrast between the moseying quality of the pacing and the adrenaline and implausibility of the dreams and nightmares, paired very well with the mysterious air of the plot. The writing was uncomplicated, straight forward, flowed well. No complaints there.
The questions to answers ratio was definitely skewered toward the former, but that's precisely was a good mystery is supposed to be like. Feed you little morsels along the way, but ultimately keep you guessing until the bitter end. I think that is what'll also give this book great re-read potential. It's gonna be interesting to go back and experience the story again with a clearer picture of what's going on.
Now let's discuss characters. Our two main ones, Blake and Kira were very tortured. This book had no shortage of angst and guilt. You can't have a dark novel with happy-go-lucky leads. They were both deliciously emotionally tormented. I also really liked how Blake was unapologetic about his murderous ways–and in complete denial when it came to his feelings for Kira. Kira herself was a very hardworking, independent, very selflessly selfish girl. She was kind and generous to everyone but herself, unwilling to share her darkness and struggles lest she transfer part of her burden onto her loved ones. But her reluctance to open up only ended up hurting those closest to her. I found the emotional struggles of both main characters very compelling and that it humanized them a lot. Even the side characters were all unique and satisfactorily fleshed out.
There were some major things that happened that I feel were very much swept under the rug and left unexplained, so that's why I'm docking a star from this otherwise fantastic book. But the ending alone deserves a half star bump, so the final rating is 4.5.
So, remember: breathe in, breathe out and be sure to hold on. This book is a roller coaster bound to leave you hanging upside down when you least expect it.
Check out my Pinterest for Character Castings and a Book Mood Board.
**I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Netgalley, BooksGoSocial and the author for the opportunity**
December 20, 2021
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Dreams of Darkness and Desire was really freaking good but confusing. Seriously, I had so many questions the entire time. In it, you will meet Kira. She seems like your normal girl who loves to dance. The only bad thing she has going for her right now are the constant nightmares. Then there's the not knowing what's real or not on top of that.
Honestly, this girl needs a good night of sleep with zero dreams or nightmares. Which she really doesn't get the entire book. Other than her, you meet Blake. The mysterious guy who seems slightly obsessed with her. Him and his roommates are observing her due to her magic. Which she knows nothing about.
With each twist, turn, and betrayal the pages just flew by. I wasn't quite sure who I should or shouldn't trust. Heck, I'm still unsure after reading that ending. It's definitely interesting that we kept thinking someone was the bad guy when something much worst was lurking in the shadows.
I'm very intrigued to figure out who it is and I'm excited to jump into the sequel.
Dreams of Darkness and Desire was really freaking good but confusing. Seriously, I had so many questions the entire time. In it, you will meet Kira. She seems like your normal girl who loves to dance. The only bad thing she has going for her right now are the constant nightmares. Then there's the not knowing what's real or not on top of that.
Honestly, this girl needs a good night of sleep with zero dreams or nightmares. Which she really doesn't get the entire book. Other than her, you meet Blake. The mysterious guy who seems slightly obsessed with her. Him and his roommates are observing her due to her magic. Which she knows nothing about.
With each twist, turn, and betrayal the pages just flew by. I wasn't quite sure who I should or shouldn't trust. Heck, I'm still unsure after reading that ending. It's definitely interesting that we kept thinking someone was the bad guy when something much worst was lurking in the shadows.
I'm very intrigued to figure out who it is and I'm excited to jump into the sequel.
October 26, 2021
For a debut novel, B.L Cagle took on a challenging premise. She has written a complex plot with an element of the supernatural, an element you are not sure is real or not, a dream or reality? And at times this does get a little confusing as to what is really happening and what is not.
Blake and Larz are wonderful characters who leap of the page, bad ass-warlocks, ideal anti-heores, who you know you are just going to love, so let’s hope there is some redeeming feature down the line. They bounce of each other, a great relationship even if they are up to no good.
Kira and Kat are well rounded individuals, and as Kira struggles with what is real, her visceral reactions to what is not, set the scene for a convoluted story. It seems she doesn’t know she is a witch, the most powerful witch ever, which is what is drawing these other powerful beings to her. The question is will she learn about her power before it is too late?
This is a very clever and enthralling story with rich characters who just pull you in. Every time you think you grasped the thread it twists off again and you doubt what’s happening along with Kira. Great read, you won’t regret picking up this book.
I was fortunate to beta read and then read the ARC. I am leaving my honest review, voluntarily, and this is well worth the read.
Blake and Larz are wonderful characters who leap of the page, bad ass-warlocks, ideal anti-heores, who you know you are just going to love, so let’s hope there is some redeeming feature down the line. They bounce of each other, a great relationship even if they are up to no good.
Kira and Kat are well rounded individuals, and as Kira struggles with what is real, her visceral reactions to what is not, set the scene for a convoluted story. It seems she doesn’t know she is a witch, the most powerful witch ever, which is what is drawing these other powerful beings to her. The question is will she learn about her power before it is too late?
This is a very clever and enthralling story with rich characters who just pull you in. Every time you think you grasped the thread it twists off again and you doubt what’s happening along with Kira. Great read, you won’t regret picking up this book.
I was fortunate to beta read and then read the ARC. I am leaving my honest review, voluntarily, and this is well worth the read.
October 22, 2021
3.5/5 ⭐
{Trigger warnings: killing, self harm (for magic purposes), abuse, rape, alcoholism, substance abuse, explicit sexual scenes}
First of all, I have to say that I NEED the second book right now! That ending, that CLIFFHANGER... I really thought someone did something, but it turns out it wasn't him, yeah I need answers!!
Besides that, this book was really really good! It was so close to 4 stars but some things did not sit right with me and that's why I rated 3.5/5 stars, which is pretty good in my opinion!
I absolutely LOVED the concept of the book, I was hooked from the beginning, something which immediately makes me appreciate a book more.
I really liked our main character Kira, but my favourite was her bestfriend, Kat! I think we all need a Kat in our lives, she is such a great friend :)
The wrting style was most of the time easy to follow and I quite enjoyed it! This being the author's first work is literally amazing.
If I have to mention something I didn't like, it's probably the age gap! I am sorry but for some reason I cannot accept it that she is 20ish and he is 400+ years old... even though he looks like he is 20.
Also, sometimes I got confused about whether what I was reading was the MC's dream or it was the reality.
However, THIS BOOK IS THRILLING! I am sure it will appeal to many people when it is published and it definitely deserves love and recognition! I'm interested in reading more of the author's work in the future.
Defintely recommend this book if you like spooky, supernatural reads with dark romances 📚✨
Thank you to NetGalley and BookGoSocial and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
{Trigger warnings: killing, self harm (for magic purposes), abuse, rape, alcoholism, substance abuse, explicit sexual scenes}
First of all, I have to say that I NEED the second book right now! That ending, that CLIFFHANGER... I really thought someone did something, but it turns out it wasn't him, yeah I need answers!!
Besides that, this book was really really good! It was so close to 4 stars but some things did not sit right with me and that's why I rated 3.5/5 stars, which is pretty good in my opinion!
I absolutely LOVED the concept of the book, I was hooked from the beginning, something which immediately makes me appreciate a book more.
I really liked our main character Kira, but my favourite was her bestfriend, Kat! I think we all need a Kat in our lives, she is such a great friend :)
The wrting style was most of the time easy to follow and I quite enjoyed it! This being the author's first work is literally amazing.
If I have to mention something I didn't like, it's probably the age gap! I am sorry but for some reason I cannot accept it that she is 20ish and he is 400+ years old... even though he looks like he is 20.
Also, sometimes I got confused about whether what I was reading was the MC's dream or it was the reality.
However, THIS BOOK IS THRILLING! I am sure it will appeal to many people when it is published and it definitely deserves love and recognition! I'm interested in reading more of the author's work in the future.
Defintely recommend this book if you like spooky, supernatural reads with dark romances 📚✨
January 18, 2022
what in the spicy, witchy, inception paranormal book is this!!? I REALLY enjoyed this book. Especially if this is this Authors very first novel!!?? Absolutely impressive. My favourite part of this book was the fact that I didnt know if what was happening was real or fake. It tricked me SO MANY TIMES! And that ending, completely did not see that one.
I will say, however, for this to be a witch/warlock book, there was very little magic involved and the story did need more action. But a great start to a new series!
I will say, however, for this to be a witch/warlock book, there was very little magic involved and the story did need more action. But a great start to a new series!
October 15, 2021
“Soon.”
Omg. That word.
So. Much. Intrigue.
This is an impressive first novel and I love knowing it was written by a fellow Tennessean! I also think we would get along really well, based on some of the details of this book. But, I digress…
So mysterious.
So intriguing.
Dark and twisty and confusing at times…
Left with SO. MANY. QUESTIONS!
Definitely leaves you wanting more.
A bit creepy, which makes it extra perfect for this season.
I think I wanted a bit more from our main characters and the third-person writing style felt a bit confusing at times, but I got used to it by the end.
The writing is beautifully descriptive and I’m very much looking forward to the continuation of this story…
*Slight Spoilers Ahead*
What the heck is up with this shadow Blake?
What is Kira going to be like when she wakes?!
Is Khalida involved somehow?!
Ahhhhh!
This was my first ARC and ohmygosh, so fun!! Thanks for the opportunity!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Omg. That word.
So. Much. Intrigue.
This is an impressive first novel and I love knowing it was written by a fellow Tennessean! I also think we would get along really well, based on some of the details of this book. But, I digress…
So mysterious.
So intriguing.
Dark and twisty and confusing at times…
Left with SO. MANY. QUESTIONS!
Definitely leaves you wanting more.
A bit creepy, which makes it extra perfect for this season.
I think I wanted a bit more from our main characters and the third-person writing style felt a bit confusing at times, but I got used to it by the end.
The writing is beautifully descriptive and I’m very much looking forward to the continuation of this story…
*Slight Spoilers Ahead*
What the heck is up with this shadow Blake?
What is Kira going to be like when she wakes?!
Is Khalida involved somehow?!
Ahhhhh!
This was my first ARC and ohmygosh, so fun!! Thanks for the opportunity!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2021
This is a dark story that grabbed me from the first page and had me glued to the pages right to the end. The author does a fantastic job developing the story,filling it with witches and warlocks and takes you on a twisted journey of murder and mystery with emotional ups and downs as well as the build up of sexual tension. Her characters are strong and her scenes are painted perfectly and she delivers a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
December 22, 2021
OK! OK I’m going to need a hot minute to process what I just read!
This book was a wild ride, from the first chapter right up until the last sentence in the Epilogue and I loved every single minute of it.
So now how to describe it? Well imagine is Inception and Alice in Wonderland had a lovechild cloaked in darkness with elements of horror thrown in. Be warned this book will mess with your mind and leave you with more questions than answers. Every time I thought I knew what was going on the author would pull that rug out from under me.
Essentially the story is set half in reality and half in a trippy dream world/ alternate reality. Kira our MFC is drag racing ballerina orphan who lost her parents a few years back. She’s a tortured souls used to shielding herself behind a mask. She’s not aware of the supernatural world let alone the enormity of the power that she has hidden within the depths of her being.
Blake our MMC is a devastatingly beautiful 400 year old warlock who is dark and mysterious while also charming as all hell. The chemistry between him and Kira is everything, but at the same time he’s also fighting these feelings because she is his ultimate sacrifice to gain immortality.
There were so many layers to this story as well as twists and turns and it was actually refreshing that it wasn’t even remotely predictable. I’m not sure how long we’ll have to wait for the next instalment but I hope it won’t be too long (you know no pressure!).
As much as I loved the book and couldn’t put it down, there were a few things I struggled with. While I really enjoyed B.L. Cagles unique writing style I did struggle with the third person perspective, it took a while to get into it and there were parts that were hard to follow (in particular the start of the book while learning the character’s names).
Also while I don’t really have any triggers, I don’t particularly enjoy love triangles and cheating. While it wasn’t exactly proper love triangles and cheating here it still made me cringe a little and was hard to get my mind around it.
All in all, a fantastic read which I’ll be recommending. It’s probably one of the best debut novels I’ve read from any author so far and perfectly timed with Halloween (I know quite a few people who are looking for exactly this kind of read).
B.L. Cagle you’ve got yourself a new fan and I can’t wait to see what you have in store with book 2!!!
I would recommend this for fans of Harley Laroux (Her Soul to Take), RuNyx (Gothikana), & Nicole Fiorina (Hollow Heathens).
I was lucky enough to get an ARC from the author through NetGalley.
This book was a wild ride, from the first chapter right up until the last sentence in the Epilogue and I loved every single minute of it.
So now how to describe it? Well imagine is Inception and Alice in Wonderland had a lovechild cloaked in darkness with elements of horror thrown in. Be warned this book will mess with your mind and leave you with more questions than answers. Every time I thought I knew what was going on the author would pull that rug out from under me.
Essentially the story is set half in reality and half in a trippy dream world/ alternate reality. Kira our MFC is drag racing ballerina orphan who lost her parents a few years back. She’s a tortured souls used to shielding herself behind a mask. She’s not aware of the supernatural world let alone the enormity of the power that she has hidden within the depths of her being.
Blake our MMC is a devastatingly beautiful 400 year old warlock who is dark and mysterious while also charming as all hell. The chemistry between him and Kira is everything, but at the same time he’s also fighting these feelings because she is his ultimate sacrifice to gain immortality.
There were so many layers to this story as well as twists and turns and it was actually refreshing that it wasn’t even remotely predictable. I’m not sure how long we’ll have to wait for the next instalment but I hope it won’t be too long (you know no pressure!).
As much as I loved the book and couldn’t put it down, there were a few things I struggled with. While I really enjoyed B.L. Cagles unique writing style I did struggle with the third person perspective, it took a while to get into it and there were parts that were hard to follow (in particular the start of the book while learning the character’s names).
Also while I don’t really have any triggers, I don’t particularly enjoy love triangles and cheating. While it wasn’t exactly proper love triangles and cheating here it still made me cringe a little and was hard to get my mind around it.
All in all, a fantastic read which I’ll be recommending. It’s probably one of the best debut novels I’ve read from any author so far and perfectly timed with Halloween (I know quite a few people who are looking for exactly this kind of read).
B.L. Cagle you’ve got yourself a new fan and I can’t wait to see what you have in store with book 2!!!
I would recommend this for fans of Harley Laroux (Her Soul to Take), RuNyx (Gothikana), & Nicole Fiorina (Hollow Heathens).
I was lucky enough to get an ARC from the author through NetGalley.
October 29, 2021
Kira's life changes when the new neighbours move in... handsome and mysterious, they are more than they seem to be. Her life is turned upside down when she meets Blake, enthralling and mysterious: a perfect anti-hero with evil intentions, an ancient and powerful warlock who will do anything to keep his power, even if that means killing innocent people… like Kira perhaps? But can someone made of pure evil fall in love? This book is a dark, enthralling ride full of passion and sexual tension between the characters as Blake seduces Kira into his world, and he has no qualms to use deception, lies and dark magic to achieve his goals. Dreams and reality become one in Kira’s world, while she tries to make sense of the supernatural happenings around her. There’s also some fun parts, particularly the banter between the warlocks and Kira’s girlfriends, but mostly this is a dark story of love, passion and the many shades of good and evil.
A fantastic read which would make an incredible movie, I have the paperback but I’m also getting the audiobook as soon as it comes out because it’s read by one of my favourite narrators.
A fantastic read which would make an incredible movie, I have the paperback but I’m also getting the audiobook as soon as it comes out because it’s read by one of my favourite narrators.
October 25, 2021
Sad to say I dnf at 62%.
The premise sounded really good so I figured I give it a try especially with Halloween spooky season vibe currently upon us. The beginning was very ominous. But as I started to read more into the book, it was dragging so slow for me that nothing was making any sense. Especially with the characters or the core plot of the story. It was way too descriptive and a lot of inner thoughts. I think if you're going to have multi-POV's for character chapters, list them after the header. Overall though, I don't do very well with slow burn books. This book needed to be condensed and the storyline tightened up. It just seems the story was going in circles and seeing I had over 2 hours of the book left and still not knowing what I was reading, I had to call it quits. I'm curious to know how this will turn out as an audiobook though. Beware there are triggers so tread carefully.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The premise sounded really good so I figured I give it a try especially with Halloween spooky season vibe currently upon us. The beginning was very ominous. But as I started to read more into the book, it was dragging so slow for me that nothing was making any sense. Especially with the characters or the core plot of the story. It was way too descriptive and a lot of inner thoughts. I think if you're going to have multi-POV's for character chapters, list them after the header. Overall though, I don't do very well with slow burn books. This book needed to be condensed and the storyline tightened up. It just seems the story was going in circles and seeing I had over 2 hours of the book left and still not knowing what I was reading, I had to call it quits. I'm curious to know how this will turn out as an audiobook though. Beware there are triggers so tread carefully.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 25, 2021
Thank you to the author and Booksprout for an ARC of Dreams of Darkness and Desire in exchange for an honest review.
This book is dark, sexy, and has all the right amount of magic, murder, plot twists, and more.
FMC, Kira, is a seemingly average orphan who finds herself amidst a world of supernatural creatures and incredible powers—including her own. MMC and age-old warlock, Blake, provides tension and romance for Kira. They are both tortured souls, one a bit more complicated and morally grey than the other. As their relationship blossoms, secrets, lies, and power struggles will shape their future.
Overall, this was a great urban paranormal fantasy. The book features supernaturals and smut, a winning combo in my opinion. But there is also considerable darkness to make you feel constantly on edge and unsure what will happen next. The book’s dual setting in reality and a dream state also adds to the air of mystery, causing the book to feel like Inception.
This book is dark, sexy, and has all the right amount of magic, murder, plot twists, and more.
FMC, Kira, is a seemingly average orphan who finds herself amidst a world of supernatural creatures and incredible powers—including her own. MMC and age-old warlock, Blake, provides tension and romance for Kira. They are both tortured souls, one a bit more complicated and morally grey than the other. As their relationship blossoms, secrets, lies, and power struggles will shape their future.
Overall, this was a great urban paranormal fantasy. The book features supernaturals and smut, a winning combo in my opinion. But there is also considerable darkness to make you feel constantly on edge and unsure what will happen next. The book’s dual setting in reality and a dream state also adds to the air of mystery, causing the book to feel like Inception.
June 7, 2021
For a first book, B.L Cagle style of writing is exactly what I look for in a book. It's a Paranormal Romance rollercoaster ride with some horror thrown in, to keep you on your toes. Kira is that character you fall in love with, and I did. She played with my emotions expertly, and I was there for it. Character growth is an important element to me. This story had me riveted for those reasons. This book is stylized and addictive. The ending has a dramatic twist you won’t see coming. Can't wait to see what's next from this author. I'm excited for the next book in this series.
October 16, 2021
OMFG
I saw and IG advertisement looking for readers for this ARC. So I said wth why not?
This book did not disappoint. I started it and finished it in less than 8 hours of reading. Cagle sucked me in from the first page and didn’t let go. This book had everything. Witches, warlocks, murder, mystery, and guys the burn this book created was slow. Slow yet white hot. The fact that this is a debut novel makes me giddy to see what comes next. Dreams of Darkness and Desire by B L Cagle will be released in October 2021. This book is a fast and delectable read.
I saw and IG advertisement looking for readers for this ARC. So I said wth why not?
This book did not disappoint. I started it and finished it in less than 8 hours of reading. Cagle sucked me in from the first page and didn’t let go. This book had everything. Witches, warlocks, murder, mystery, and guys the burn this book created was slow. Slow yet white hot. The fact that this is a debut novel makes me giddy to see what comes next. Dreams of Darkness and Desire by B L Cagle will be released in October 2021. This book is a fast and delectable read.
October 19, 2021
ARC provided by Net Gallery
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
TW: This book has some sexual explicit scenes, killing, self harm (for magic purposes), abuse, rape and substance abuse.
How do I begin to explain how much I hated and loved this book. It left me a bittersweet feeling, CAUSE IT HAS A SUPER PLOTTWIST AND A CLIFFHANGER. Which we hate, but it was good. And before I leave my guts out, let me give you the tropes:
🖤Forbidden love
🖤Supernatural romance
🖤Age gap
🖤Dark romance
🖤Strangers to Lovers to enemies
"If he was already lost in her light, did it matter if he never found himself again?"
If you like The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Supernatural, this book is for you. The book was good, weird, bizarre, creepy and great. All at the same time.
I'm still processing the ending, it really left me without words. The whole time I was not pining for the protagonist and the love interest because of something I thought he did, to find out I WAS PLAYED AND IT WASN'T HIM. (read it to understand muhaha).
The story follows Kira, she's a 20 yo girl who lives in New Orleans with her childhood friend Kat. Her parents died when she was 17. Since her purchase of an old mirror she's been having strange dreams, feeling exhausted and in a bad place. Her relationship with her boyfriend Collin has been rocky, resulting in him falling to the alcoholic lifestyle, which does not suite Kira at all, (her parents died in a car accident provoked by a drunk driver). One night in a club out, Collin is drunk once again, she decides that's enough and escapes the club, she's done with that, she need something else, she need excitement. Then he meet a mysterious man that makes her feel everything and nothing just with the touch of his finger on her palm, but he dissipates promising to be with her soon . Kira returns to her normal life, feeling the need to see that mysterious man once again, but she can't, she has a boyfriend and a life to sort throw, that's what she tells herself until she find out, the mysterious man is her new neighbor...
This book has suspense, it creeped me the hell out many many times. I have to admit I wasn't sure if the book was for me particularly, at the beginning it was hard to grasp on the plot, I was not feeling it really. But it got more suspenseful and interesting as the story went on.
The characters are a bit bittersweet. The whole plot is Kira not knowing she is the Supra Virtutem, so the thing that happens to her where so frustrating, her passing out all the time and having this dreams, it was so frustrating to me. It made her seem weak, WHICH I know she is not. She is the most power supernatural creature but her not knowing about it didn't suited me. I hope on the second book she finally gets the chance to train in some way her powers.
Then we have the gorgeous Blake (love interest), who I wanted to punch in the face so many times, for reasons I won't tell because of spoilers, but at the same time, loved him so much. BUT I was so conflicted with Blake's behavior, towards Kira. I wasn't even sure how they where gonna resolve things. The main plot, which is no spoiler it's in the synopsis, is that he is meant to kill her in order to have her powers, and I was so frustrated for them I was shipping them so hard, he was so sweet with her. HE EVEN MADE HER A FREAKING DANCE STUDIO IN HIS HOUSE IN ORDER TO KEEP HER COMFORTABLE. WHO DOES THAT? No real man does that, that's why I want him please.
I also was so afraid this was gonna have a cheat trope, I can't stand them, fortunately it didn't. But yes, this is a great spooky season read, the ending really had me so shocked, I need the second book YESTERDAY.
Totally recommend it if you like spooky books, supernatural romance and dark romance.
Enjoy your reading. 📚✨
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
TW: This book has some sexual explicit scenes, killing, self harm (for magic purposes), abuse, rape and substance abuse.
How do I begin to explain how much I hated and loved this book. It left me a bittersweet feeling, CAUSE IT HAS A SUPER PLOTTWIST AND A CLIFFHANGER. Which we hate, but it was good. And before I leave my guts out, let me give you the tropes:
🖤Forbidden love
🖤Supernatural romance
🖤Age gap
🖤Dark romance
🖤Strangers to Lovers to enemies
"If he was already lost in her light, did it matter if he never found himself again?"
If you like The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Supernatural, this book is for you. The book was good, weird, bizarre, creepy and great. All at the same time.
I'm still processing the ending, it really left me without words. The whole time I was not pining for the protagonist and the love interest because of something I thought he did, to find out I WAS PLAYED AND IT WASN'T HIM. (read it to understand muhaha).
The story follows Kira, she's a 20 yo girl who lives in New Orleans with her childhood friend Kat. Her parents died when she was 17. Since her purchase of an old mirror she's been having strange dreams, feeling exhausted and in a bad place. Her relationship with her boyfriend Collin has been rocky, resulting in him falling to the alcoholic lifestyle, which does not suite Kira at all, (her parents died in a car accident provoked by a drunk driver). One night in a club out, Collin is drunk once again, she decides that's enough and escapes the club, she's done with that, she need something else, she need excitement. Then he meet a mysterious man that makes her feel everything and nothing just with the touch of his finger on her palm, but he dissipates promising to be with her soon . Kira returns to her normal life, feeling the need to see that mysterious man once again, but she can't, she has a boyfriend and a life to sort throw, that's what she tells herself until she find out, the mysterious man is her new neighbor...
This book has suspense, it creeped me the hell out many many times. I have to admit I wasn't sure if the book was for me particularly, at the beginning it was hard to grasp on the plot, I was not feeling it really. But it got more suspenseful and interesting as the story went on.
The characters are a bit bittersweet. The whole plot is Kira not knowing she is the Supra Virtutem, so the thing that happens to her where so frustrating, her passing out all the time and having this dreams, it was so frustrating to me. It made her seem weak, WHICH I know she is not. She is the most power supernatural creature but her not knowing about it didn't suited me. I hope on the second book she finally gets the chance to train in some way her powers.
Then we have the gorgeous Blake (love interest), who I wanted to punch in the face so many times, for reasons I won't tell because of spoilers, but at the same time, loved him so much. BUT I was so conflicted with Blake's behavior, towards Kira. I wasn't even sure how they where gonna resolve things. The main plot, which is no spoiler it's in the synopsis, is that he is meant to kill her in order to have her powers, and I was so frustrated for them I was shipping them so hard, he was so sweet with her. HE EVEN MADE HER A FREAKING DANCE STUDIO IN HIS HOUSE IN ORDER TO KEEP HER COMFORTABLE. WHO DOES THAT? No real man does that, that's why I want him please.
I also was so afraid this was gonna have a cheat trope, I can't stand them, fortunately it didn't. But yes, this is a great spooky season read, the ending really had me so shocked, I need the second book YESTERDAY.
Totally recommend it if you like spooky books, supernatural romance and dark romance.
Enjoy your reading. 📚✨
October 28, 2021
I received an advanced reader copy of Dreams of Darkness and Desire in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this opportunity.
What I hoped for in Dreams of Darkness and Desire was a fast-paced urban fantasy with great character dynamics and most of all a well-developed romance between the main characters. The blurb sounded really interesting and I was intrigued by the focus on ballet (which thankfully wasn’t just dropped in favour of action at any point in the book).
Unlike other reviewers I haven’t had any issues with getting the gist of what was one of Kira’s dreams and what was reality - I actually felt like it was very well developed how in the beginning the dreams seemed to be just dreams but as the story progressed they came closer and closer to reality.
What I did have a major problem with, however, was the overall pacing. For example, when the boys try to ally with Rayna and her friends, they discuss her plans and then the actual action is described again. To me, that was such an insignificant part of the plot. Essential scenes concerning Kira were just as long at best, and then there’s also that huge gap in the timeline between the holidays at the lake and Halloween / Thanksgiving.
Speaking of Thanksgiving, I’m in no position to judge but it certainly did feel weird when the boys were like “yeah Armand is Native American and Thanksgiving basically celebrates a genocide, so this is totally offensive to him but it’s also okay because there’s food and he loves that”. What??
Oh and both Armand and Vincent were mentioned whenever the boys did something as a group, but other than that they didn’t really hold any importance for the plot. The same goes for Nadia and Kat’s boyfriend Eric.
That’s another thing I’ll actually so annoyed about: the way cheating was portrayed in this.
First we have Kira who flirts with Blake and constantly thinks of her shadow guy and emotionally betrays Colin, but then she completely flips out when she catches him cheating? Talking of double standards, she then proceeds to get piss drunk which is something she always criticised about Colin? And the fact that Blake is constantly drinking is also not an issue for her whatsoever?
And then we also have Kat and her supposedly perfect boyfriend Eric who is also a great best friend to Colin, and Kat goes ahead and shamelessly flirts with Larz from the moment she meets him. Just why?
It’s not even as if these guys are actually attractive beyond their looks. Their characters consisted of feeling superior, sleeping with everyone they met, and being really arrogant about it too. But neither Kira nor Kat ever questioned that, and they didn’t even feel the least bit suspicious about the backstory these twenty-something millionaires who have time to party all day. It’s all a bit too convenient for my taste. There definitely was some character development in Blake towards the ending, but that mostly only concerned Kira herself and not his overall behaviour.
I also wish the magic system had been developed more. Even after reading almost 500 pages, I have no idea how the magic works (most of the time it’s Latin words, but not always it seems) and what its limits are. It also really frustrated me that Kira thought of choking that guy on the fair and legitimately saw him choking, but apparently never thought to stop for a moment and wonder about the connection between those two events? That was just another thing about Kira’s naïveté that was way too convenient for my taste.
So all in all, I really enjoyed the idea and the setting of this story as well as the writing style, but I wanted to dnf the book for about 75% in the middle of it due to how much it bored me, so that definitely isn’t a good sign at all.
1.5/5 stars.
What I hoped for in Dreams of Darkness and Desire was a fast-paced urban fantasy with great character dynamics and most of all a well-developed romance between the main characters. The blurb sounded really interesting and I was intrigued by the focus on ballet (which thankfully wasn’t just dropped in favour of action at any point in the book).
Unlike other reviewers I haven’t had any issues with getting the gist of what was one of Kira’s dreams and what was reality - I actually felt like it was very well developed how in the beginning the dreams seemed to be just dreams but as the story progressed they came closer and closer to reality.
What I did have a major problem with, however, was the overall pacing. For example, when the boys try to ally with Rayna and her friends, they discuss her plans and then the actual action is described again. To me, that was such an insignificant part of the plot. Essential scenes concerning Kira were just as long at best, and then there’s also that huge gap in the timeline between the holidays at the lake and Halloween / Thanksgiving.
Speaking of Thanksgiving, I’m in no position to judge but it certainly did feel weird when the boys were like “yeah Armand is Native American and Thanksgiving basically celebrates a genocide, so this is totally offensive to him but it’s also okay because there’s food and he loves that”. What??
Oh and both Armand and Vincent were mentioned whenever the boys did something as a group, but other than that they didn’t really hold any importance for the plot. The same goes for Nadia and Kat’s boyfriend Eric.
That’s another thing I’ll actually so annoyed about: the way cheating was portrayed in this.
First we have Kira who flirts with Blake and constantly thinks of her shadow guy and emotionally betrays Colin, but then she completely flips out when she catches him cheating? Talking of double standards, she then proceeds to get piss drunk which is something she always criticised about Colin? And the fact that Blake is constantly drinking is also not an issue for her whatsoever?
And then we also have Kat and her supposedly perfect boyfriend Eric who is also a great best friend to Colin, and Kat goes ahead and shamelessly flirts with Larz from the moment she meets him. Just why?
It’s not even as if these guys are actually attractive beyond their looks. Their characters consisted of feeling superior, sleeping with everyone they met, and being really arrogant about it too. But neither Kira nor Kat ever questioned that, and they didn’t even feel the least bit suspicious about the backstory these twenty-something millionaires who have time to party all day. It’s all a bit too convenient for my taste. There definitely was some character development in Blake towards the ending, but that mostly only concerned Kira herself and not his overall behaviour.
I also wish the magic system had been developed more. Even after reading almost 500 pages, I have no idea how the magic works (most of the time it’s Latin words, but not always it seems) and what its limits are. It also really frustrated me that Kira thought of choking that guy on the fair and legitimately saw him choking, but apparently never thought to stop for a moment and wonder about the connection between those two events? That was just another thing about Kira’s naïveté that was way too convenient for my taste.
So all in all, I really enjoyed the idea and the setting of this story as well as the writing style, but I wanted to dnf the book for about 75% in the middle of it due to how much it bored me, so that definitely isn’t a good sign at all.
1.5/5 stars.
February 14, 2022
This book has just blown my mind. What a freaking fantastic ride! It’s a dark, PNR, urban fantasy, with witches, warlocks, and spice! The whole book is woven together with an undertone of menace and foreboding that is palpable, and a base sensuality that is scintillating. There’s often a complete lack of distinction between dream and reality as your reading - no switch to italics or anything like that to indicate that she’s in a dream, and it completely adds to the engrossing nature of this book. Sometimes it’s a bit more obvious, and other times, it completely surprises you.
As the book starts, it seems like Kira is almost sleep walking through life. Ironically, this is driven by nightmares and an utter lack of sleep, all of which she’s been keeping from her friends and boyfriend. But her behavior has been driving a rift between her an Colin, her boyfriend, and has put walls up with her friends. Enter Blake - a sexy new guy in town, who’s piercing blue eyes haunt Kira in every way - including her dreams and nightmares. Blake is charismatic, gorgeous, sexy, and nothing that he seems. He’s a four hundred year old warlock, who’s been sacrificing other witches to claim their power and maintain his immortality, and Kira is his next big target. Because what Kira doesn’t know, is that she possesses immense magic, and when she turns 21, she will ascend into her magic, and Blake intends to sacrifice her to claim her magic and solidify his immortality. To call him morally grey is really probably generous. He is seductive, and manipulative, and completely unprepared for what she makes him feel. Their relationship is electric, their chemistry is scorching, and while there isn’t a ton of spice, there is spice, and what we do get is really good!
There is a bleeding over between dreams and reality, and there are hints and clues everywhere leading in different directions, which kept me guessing, and theorizing. It’s dual POV, so we get Kira and Blake’s perspectives, but it seems that neither is a fully reliable narrator - Kira because of the collision of her reality and dreamscapes, and Blake because of his shadiness. The close secondary characters are excellent as well. The other warlocks, Blake’s “brothers”, Larz, Armand, and Vincent, are also highly charismatic, confident, and honestly, a bit terrifying behind the scenes. Kira’s best friend Kat is amazing, like the most incredible best friend ever - Kira even notes at one point “everyone should have a little Kat in their pocket” - she is completely her ride or die, there for her no matter what, and it’s awesome. And Kat’s interactions with Blake and the other warlocks, especially Larz, are great, often hysterical. What makes this all the more intriguing is, so much of the interactions are so normal. Kira has no idea that she has all this magic, she’s just living her life, going to college, going to parties, it’s a crazy juxtaposition to the ulterior motives of the warlocks, and how they manipulate so many situations with just the littlest touches of magic.
Overall, this book was insanely engrossing, incredibly fascinating, and that ending - let’s just say, I have a major book hangover, and I desperately want to know how long we will have to wait for the next book. I know this is a debut novel for this author, and all I can say is, if this is her first book, I absolutely CANNOT WAIT to see where we go from here!
As the book starts, it seems like Kira is almost sleep walking through life. Ironically, this is driven by nightmares and an utter lack of sleep, all of which she’s been keeping from her friends and boyfriend. But her behavior has been driving a rift between her an Colin, her boyfriend, and has put walls up with her friends. Enter Blake - a sexy new guy in town, who’s piercing blue eyes haunt Kira in every way - including her dreams and nightmares. Blake is charismatic, gorgeous, sexy, and nothing that he seems. He’s a four hundred year old warlock, who’s been sacrificing other witches to claim their power and maintain his immortality, and Kira is his next big target. Because what Kira doesn’t know, is that she possesses immense magic, and when she turns 21, she will ascend into her magic, and Blake intends to sacrifice her to claim her magic and solidify his immortality. To call him morally grey is really probably generous. He is seductive, and manipulative, and completely unprepared for what she makes him feel. Their relationship is electric, their chemistry is scorching, and while there isn’t a ton of spice, there is spice, and what we do get is really good!
There is a bleeding over between dreams and reality, and there are hints and clues everywhere leading in different directions, which kept me guessing, and theorizing. It’s dual POV, so we get Kira and Blake’s perspectives, but it seems that neither is a fully reliable narrator - Kira because of the collision of her reality and dreamscapes, and Blake because of his shadiness. The close secondary characters are excellent as well. The other warlocks, Blake’s “brothers”, Larz, Armand, and Vincent, are also highly charismatic, confident, and honestly, a bit terrifying behind the scenes. Kira’s best friend Kat is amazing, like the most incredible best friend ever - Kira even notes at one point “everyone should have a little Kat in their pocket” - she is completely her ride or die, there for her no matter what, and it’s awesome. And Kat’s interactions with Blake and the other warlocks, especially Larz, are great, often hysterical. What makes this all the more intriguing is, so much of the interactions are so normal. Kira has no idea that she has all this magic, she’s just living her life, going to college, going to parties, it’s a crazy juxtaposition to the ulterior motives of the warlocks, and how they manipulate so many situations with just the littlest touches of magic.
Overall, this book was insanely engrossing, incredibly fascinating, and that ending - let’s just say, I have a major book hangover, and I desperately want to know how long we will have to wait for the next book. I know this is a debut novel for this author, and all I can say is, if this is her first book, I absolutely CANNOT WAIT to see where we go from here!
October 25, 2021
Thank you to NetGallery, BookSprout, and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“I would denounce all that I am, and all I ever wanted to become to take this all away. I would be nothing, less than normal, less than human to trade places with you right now.”
This book was a wild ride all in one. I'm still taking time to truly comprehend what I've just read. I would describe it as Chilling Adventures of Sabrina meets Inception and Alice in Wonderland. It combines the world of witches and warlocks with the land of dreams and worlds hidden behind mirrors.
Kira is an extremely likable character: a 20-year-old dreamer and a dancer who has a heart of gold. Unaware of her growing powers, Kira is also the Supra Virtutem, a witch that possesses immense power. Her opposite, Blake, is a 400-year old warlock who hunts younger witches for power and immortality. Blake's purpose in moving to New Orleans is to hunt down and kill the Supra Virtutem. While getting to know Kira, he falls for her and she can't help but feel the same way. They shouldn't work together but they do in some twisted way. There is something undeniable about the connection built throughout the story.
If you like dark fantasy, mystery, horror mixed with strangers-to-lovers and forbidden love, you would enjoy this book.
I admit I was a bit confused at some points but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The unexpected twist at the end literally had me screaming at the cliffhanger and wishing I could read more!
“I would denounce all that I am, and all I ever wanted to become to take this all away. I would be nothing, less than normal, less than human to trade places with you right now.”
This book was a wild ride all in one. I'm still taking time to truly comprehend what I've just read. I would describe it as Chilling Adventures of Sabrina meets Inception and Alice in Wonderland. It combines the world of witches and warlocks with the land of dreams and worlds hidden behind mirrors.
Kira is an extremely likable character: a 20-year-old dreamer and a dancer who has a heart of gold. Unaware of her growing powers, Kira is also the Supra Virtutem, a witch that possesses immense power. Her opposite, Blake, is a 400-year old warlock who hunts younger witches for power and immortality. Blake's purpose in moving to New Orleans is to hunt down and kill the Supra Virtutem. While getting to know Kira, he falls for her and she can't help but feel the same way. They shouldn't work together but they do in some twisted way. There is something undeniable about the connection built throughout the story.
If you like dark fantasy, mystery, horror mixed with strangers-to-lovers and forbidden love, you would enjoy this book.
I admit I was a bit confused at some points but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The unexpected twist at the end literally had me screaming at the cliffhanger and wishing I could read more!
October 19, 2021
Don’t ever say Christmas doesn’t come early because I’m gifting you the knowledge of your next binge read! Do yourself a favor and immediately preorder this one y’all. It’s a sexy, uprooting, methodical approach to what dark romance with warlocks and witches can look like. As a new author, Brandy went for the jugular and bit hard and slow into the artery of fantasy and romance genres.
Cagle invites us into a haunting world where the main character is balancing a world of dreams versus reality. To be honest, I felt displaced between the two as the reader and I loved it. This dark romance purposely keeps the reader walking on uneven ground. It was beautifully written and gave both show AND tell.
I. Could. Not. Put. This. Down.
The relationship between Kira and Blake bends to the will of undeniable sexual attraction and promise. But let me assure you— this is not a surface fantasy with no depth. There is so much more complexity to both the storyline and character development.
I’m blown away by how in the world this is Cagle’s first novel?! She places herself in the same arena of J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood Series). The ending will have you foaming at the mouth for more, friends— and that’s all I can divulge about that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2021
From beginning to end this book had me in its grips. When reality and dreams merge and one never knows what our main characters are really doing. This gripping tale steers you from one moment of crashing emotion to the next. I have never read anything like this. Dark and light trail together leaving an endless array of colors in their wake.
The sexual tension the main characters experience is like an addictive drug, leaving you craving more. While the dreams and sorcery leave a stunning visual. This author has definitely set her sights on a book that has never been written before and yet has all of the elements of a beloved favorite. The wait for the second book is going to keep me on the edge of my seat.
The sexual tension the main characters experience is like an addictive drug, leaving you craving more. While the dreams and sorcery leave a stunning visual. This author has definitely set her sights on a book that has never been written before and yet has all of the elements of a beloved favorite. The wait for the second book is going to keep me on the edge of my seat.
July 20, 2021
Let me start off by saying I am very picky when it comes to my books. Some get a hold of me and never let go, and some are are like a nice cup of tea. Enjoyable but nothing to brag home about. This book here, was phenomenal! It ropes you in and holds your attention for the entire ride. The characters are awesome. Lovable and sweet and at the same time want to make you shake them senseless. Just when you think you figured it out, here comes another twist and you are back to second guessing yourself. This is definitely a swoon worthy story. The guys are..whew and the romance buildup is heart stopping. I cannot wait to see what happens next!! No spoilers, you gotta read it.You won't regret it!
October 19, 2021
This book is hard to put down, I think I finished it within a day I enjoyed it so much. It is however, sometimes a little confusing to determine which part is reality and what is a vision. Yet, it is not so difficult that I didn't know what was going on. If you enjoy a steamy scene, there are a few within here that are guaranteed to make you want more. I really enjoyed the suspense and intensity of the plot line coming together at the very end of the book, and m very excited to see how the rest of the series spans out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2021
I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this debut novel. My god. This begins as a slow burn that quickly hooks your interest and then it just keeps escalating. While I enjoyed the blending between dreams and reality, if you're not paying too much attention, it can become a bit confusing. This book ends on a cliffhanger and what a cliffhanger it is! It changes how you (may) feel about a main character. I do wonder how the author plans on trying to redeem Blake in Kira's eyes as well as the readers. The ending is certainly a good start...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 22, 2021
I was given an advanced copy of this book (via Booksprout) to read and review, my honest opinions are as follows. *general spoilers!* I must admit. I was cautious going in but this book lived way past any expectation I could have even thought of. While the main love story was predictable and the leads were a bit typical, the story itself is well written. The magic isn’t straightforward enough to be boring but not complicated enough to lose the reader. It’s well woven in and has a fresh take. There is a bit of an inception feel at times but that disoriented feeling only adds to the experience. I can’t wait for a follow up!!
June 8, 2021
For a first book, B.L Cagle style of writing is exactly what I look for in a book. It's a Paranormal Romance rollercoaster ride with some horror thrown in, to keep you on your toes. Kira is that character you fall in love with, and I did. She played with my emotions expertly, and I was there for it. Character growth is an important element to me. This story had me riveted for those reasons. This book is stylized and addictive. The ending has a dramatic twist you won’t see coming. Can't wait to see what's next from this author. I'm excited for the next book in this series.
June 27, 2021
His past, her future...lies, deception, the darkness, the shadows, love, death and magic. A story that starts as a slow burn that by mid book you dont want to set it down. When you think you've got it figured out, you really haven't a clue. It will have you laughing and feeling full hearted one moment and the next will have you breathing heavy and anxious...
"They were a tangle of limbs and sheets... sweat and blood... rippling muscles, tongue, and teeth."
Who was he? Who is she really? Book 2 cannot come fast enough!
"They were a tangle of limbs and sheets... sweat and blood... rippling muscles, tongue, and teeth."
Who was he? Who is she really? Book 2 cannot come fast enough!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews