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Valkyrie Bestiary #5
Kelpies Don't Fly
Critter wrangler rule #15: Always look a gift horse in the mouth. And if it has sharp teeth, never, never get on its back.
For ten years, Kyra Greene thought she was the only Valkyrie this side of the rainbow bridge. Until she gets a stunning message from her cousin, Gunora, asking for bail money.
But facing the ghosts of her past isn’t on Kyra’s to-do list. All she wants is to settle into her new home with Mason and her menagerie of furred, feathered and scaled rescues. But the many gods of Terra have other plans.
Gunora’s plea for help sets a new Inbetween adventure in motion. Kyra and her crew will find themselves on the wrong side of the law and going to war with a herd of murderous kelpies. But this time, Kyra might finally set past wrongs to right.
For ten years, Kyra Greene thought she was the only Valkyrie this side of the rainbow bridge. Until she gets a stunning message from her cousin, Gunora, asking for bail money.
But facing the ghosts of her past isn’t on Kyra’s to-do list. All she wants is to settle into her new home with Mason and her menagerie of furred, feathered and scaled rescues. But the many gods of Terra have other plans.
Gunora’s plea for help sets a new Inbetween adventure in motion. Kyra and her crew will find themselves on the wrong side of the law and going to war with a herd of murderous kelpies. But this time, Kyra might finally set past wrongs to right.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2022
230 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Kim McDougall
46 books355 followersIf Kim McDougall could have one magical superpower, it would be to talk to animals. Or maybe to shift into animal form. Definitely, fantastical critters and magic often feature in her stories. So until she can change into a Griffin and fly away, she writes dark paranormal action and romance tales. Kim is also passionate about fiber art, photography, children’s literacy, rescue animals, nature, and genre-bending fiction. She also writes for children under pen name Kim Chatel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
March 15, 2022
It has been quite a while since I’ve read such an enjoyable, entertaining paranormal suspense romance. The plot is well-written & very interesting with some unconventional situations, the world building is outstanding. The characters are well-developed & likable with realistic emotional feelings & reactions according to the situation they currently find themselves in. There is good support from the secondary characters.
There is: drama, intrigue, adventure, action, some unexpected twists, family issues, relationship problems, unusual creatures, witches, discovery, manipulations, threats, danger, challenges, attacks, life-threatening incidents, devious plans, evil, conflict, violence, battles, surprises & compromises. This book does end in a HFN with a bit of a cliffhanger and I look forward to the next book with eager anticipation.
There is: drama, intrigue, adventure, action, some unexpected twists, family issues, relationship problems, unusual creatures, witches, discovery, manipulations, threats, danger, challenges, attacks, life-threatening incidents, devious plans, evil, conflict, violence, battles, surprises & compromises. This book does end in a HFN with a bit of a cliffhanger and I look forward to the next book with eager anticipation.
March 18, 2022
a little frustrating
2.5 for me but rounded up to 2.7 because of how nice the other books were, and because the critters were present. Not too much, but… yeah.
So this had ever-after vibes with one more thing to throw in, but I wasn’t too happy because of Kyra’s choices to do things. I still wanted to finish the book because I like the series a lot and how happy it made me in the previous installments but this trip was based on decisions I didn’t agree with so it was like I was being dragged along lol
However, I loved seeing the critters again, Mason and his estate and their chosen family. I think it’s cool that despite the “HEA”, we still had unfinished business with Gabey and the others. I’d read those stories!
And despite how frustrating she can be, I low key love her patience and endless well of forgiveness. When Mason was being a donkey, she didn’t hide away in hurt anger like I would’ve, she reminded herself that he’d waited for her all that time and so “the least she could do was the same”. She has the same patience for others and I think it’s a very cool perspective to have when reading her story. Makes me wanna do better.
Now to Kyra and her choices. Her cousin is bad news and instead of full-heartedly supporting her or outright shunning her, she does the flippity flop thing. Helps her then leaves her, seeks her out then throws her away, risks the government and then kills her. Like… no. I thought her compassion was dumb for several reasons and this is where it gets spoilery.
She bailed her cousin out and promised to be responsible. But not a second later, the cousin runs off in FU anger and she LETS her. Which means she didn’t care about the promise to the police. Then the cousin kills people and asks for another bail out, and it only occurs to Kyra AFTER PEOPLE ARE DEAD that she’s “sorta” responsible. But again, I just don’t think she gave two shoes. She’s too worried about the cousin who never cared about her. And it’s not until the end when she’s about to die that she delivers the moral lesson that “family isn’t blood, it’s a choice”. I rolled my eyes so hard. There are better ways to deliver that without the heroine being straight up dumb and inconsiderate. Her cousin was associated with KILLERS and she didn’t care if she was out on the city. It was literally my first thought that she’d be loosed on the city folk but did Kyra care? No. And that was my main frustration that just got added on until I was relieved the ending came without and lingering repercussions.
Overall alright. This should be two stars with how frustrating I got, and there were sprinkles of errors throughout the book, but I like that Kyra refused to be different and didn’t want to do anything without first love and patience. Dumb, but necessary for non-toxic life.
2.5 for me but rounded up to 2.7 because of how nice the other books were, and because the critters were present. Not too much, but… yeah.
So this had ever-after vibes with one more thing to throw in, but I wasn’t too happy because of Kyra’s choices to do things. I still wanted to finish the book because I like the series a lot and how happy it made me in the previous installments but this trip was based on decisions I didn’t agree with so it was like I was being dragged along lol
However, I loved seeing the critters again, Mason and his estate and their chosen family. I think it’s cool that despite the “HEA”, we still had unfinished business with Gabey and the others. I’d read those stories!
And despite how frustrating she can be, I low key love her patience and endless well of forgiveness. When Mason was being a donkey, she didn’t hide away in hurt anger like I would’ve, she reminded herself that he’d waited for her all that time and so “the least she could do was the same”. She has the same patience for others and I think it’s a very cool perspective to have when reading her story. Makes me wanna do better.
Now to Kyra and her choices. Her cousin is bad news and instead of full-heartedly supporting her or outright shunning her, she does the flippity flop thing. Helps her then leaves her, seeks her out then throws her away, risks the government and then kills her. Like… no. I thought her compassion was dumb for several reasons and this is where it gets spoilery.
She bailed her cousin out and promised to be responsible. But not a second later, the cousin runs off in FU anger and she LETS her. Which means she didn’t care about the promise to the police. Then the cousin kills people and asks for another bail out, and it only occurs to Kyra AFTER PEOPLE ARE DEAD that she’s “sorta” responsible. But again, I just don’t think she gave two shoes. She’s too worried about the cousin who never cared about her. And it’s not until the end when she’s about to die that she delivers the moral lesson that “family isn’t blood, it’s a choice”. I rolled my eyes so hard. There are better ways to deliver that without the heroine being straight up dumb and inconsiderate. Her cousin was associated with KILLERS and she didn’t care if she was out on the city. It was literally my first thought that she’d be loosed on the city folk but did Kyra care? No. And that was my main frustration that just got added on until I was relieved the ending came without and lingering repercussions.
Overall alright. This should be two stars with how frustrating I got, and there were sprinkles of errors throughout the book, but I like that Kyra refused to be different and didn’t want to do anything without first love and patience. Dumb, but necessary for non-toxic life.
March 14, 2022
Kelpies Don’t Fly is the fifth book in the Valkyrie Bestiary series and I loved it! Kyra, Gita and the rest of Kyra’s menagerie are finally moving into Mason’s home, so everyone has their hands full settling in. Mason’s beginning his bid for Prime Minister of the Alchemists, but he’s also pulling back from Kyra for some reason. To add to their stress, Kyra discovers that she’s not the only Valkyrie on Terra when her cousin Gunora asks Kyra to bail her out of jail. Kyra’s hope is that this is an opportunity to right past wrongs with her cousin, but unfortunately, her cousin appears to have other plans. Kyra’s kind heart lead her and Mason on another life-threatening adventure, and this time, it’s not just their lives that are at stake.
This is another great story in the series, I really enjoyed it! There’s a lot happening in this book between Mason’s political aspirations and Kyra’s family drama, so there’s never a dull moment. The climax of this book was pretty nerve wracking and there were times when I didn’t see the path to the resolution I was hoping for, but I was happy with how it worked out. I’m very happy with where Mason and Kyra are at the end of the book, but also wonder how it might affect their adventures in future stories. I really liked Cricket and Raven and hope they find their respective places in the family. I really enjoyed this story, as I do all the books in this series, and I cannot wait for their next adventure!
This is another great story in the series, I really enjoyed it! There’s a lot happening in this book between Mason’s political aspirations and Kyra’s family drama, so there’s never a dull moment. The climax of this book was pretty nerve wracking and there were times when I didn’t see the path to the resolution I was hoping for, but I was happy with how it worked out. I’m very happy with where Mason and Kyra are at the end of the book, but also wonder how it might affect their adventures in future stories. I really liked Cricket and Raven and hope they find their respective places in the family. I really enjoyed this story, as I do all the books in this series, and I cannot wait for their next adventure!
March 15, 2022
Whoa...
I feel like I say that a lot for this series. So a new home, boyfriend problems, a family reunion sorta, and another death defying adventure for Ours and crew. And that cliffhanger! I can't wait for the next instalment.
I feel like I say that a lot for this series. So a new home, boyfriend problems, a family reunion sorta, and another death defying adventure for Ours and crew. And that cliffhanger! I can't wait for the next instalment.
October 4, 2024
My on-again, off-again relationship with Mason is on again. He struggles at the beginning and shuts Kyra out, but once he opens up to her, I was instantly Team Mason and remained that way for the rest of the book.
Theres a new character in town - Gunora, Kyra’s Valkyrie cousin. Kyra, being the good soul that she is, gives Gunora more chances than anyone deserves, which leads to dangerous situations for Kyra and crew. AND Jacoby! After everything you put my sweet baby dervish through in the last two books, how can you do this to me???
I love Princess’ new friend, Raven, and how Mason was just totally accepting of Kyra adopting another stray. And the ending!!
Theres a new character in town - Gunora, Kyra’s Valkyrie cousin. Kyra, being the good soul that she is, gives Gunora more chances than anyone deserves, which leads to dangerous situations for Kyra and crew. AND Jacoby! After everything you put my sweet baby dervish through in the last two books, how can you do this to me???
I love Princess’ new friend, Raven, and how Mason was just totally accepting of Kyra adopting another stray. And the ending!!
May 3, 2023
it’s almost as if she forgot Princess can shrink
Well this was an interesting tale.
Editing errors aside and the fact that quite a few things were blatantly ignored, remember Princess has a chihuahua form, why didn’t Kyra coax her to adjust her size more than once?, I wasn’t really too pleased with this book.
It all seemed so rushed and sloppy. From the appearance of a cousin and the fact that they were bloody and bruised and still able to run, swim and make conversations? Not to mention the sudden appearance of Angus… so we couldn’t learn if he still had his ghost problem? Kyra has natural magic, how come there were no ghosts on this island with so many violent and gruesome deaths? Also, if Raven was born inside that ward without magic shouldn’t he be feeling overwhelmed or oversensitized to suddenly having more magic?
So we’re not gonna get a journal entry about Thunderbirds? Did anyone else miss Clarence?
Well this was an interesting tale.
Editing errors aside and the fact that quite a few things were blatantly ignored, remember Princess has a chihuahua form, why didn’t Kyra coax her to adjust her size more than once?, I wasn’t really too pleased with this book.
It all seemed so rushed and sloppy. From the appearance of a cousin and the fact that they were bloody and bruised and still able to run, swim and make conversations? Not to mention the sudden appearance of Angus… so we couldn’t learn if he still had his ghost problem? Kyra has natural magic, how come there were no ghosts on this island with so many violent and gruesome deaths? Also, if Raven was born inside that ward without magic shouldn’t he be feeling overwhelmed or oversensitized to suddenly having more magic?
So we’re not gonna get a journal entry about Thunderbirds? Did anyone else miss Clarence?
December 28, 2022
I enjoy Kim McDougall's writing and am interested to see where she takes this in the final installment. As a villain, the author definitely made Gunora hate-able. This book was as action packed as ever, though I wasn't thrilled with Mason's attitude at the beginning. He is panicking and thinking he is losing his mind to a demon "blessing" but instead of talking to Kyra he ignores her and spends all his time alone in the woods getting drunk. Turns out he came back from the Nether with Kyra's keening gift so he has been feeling everyone's emotions and it is seriously overwhelming him. He knew his actions were hurting her and kept doing it anyway. Once she finally cornered him in the woods and made him talk to her she knew right away what was happening and was able to help him start to fix it.
Spoilers ahead!!
Kyra gets an email that her cousin Gunora wasn't in Asgard when she burned the bifrost, she was on earth looking for a cure to a Valkyrie disease. Turns out, the only cure is to transfer the disease through a ritual to another Valkyrie. Originally she planned to find the one backway into Asgard but since she's stuck on Earth she decides to try and force it on Kyra. Kyra wants to help her find a real cure but Gunora tries to kill her anyway. Gunora is sent to Grandill prison island and arranges for the young goblin twins to be kidnapped, forcing Kyra and Mason to break into the prison. The island is ruled by three prisoner factions - Felix and the kelpies, Jack and his crew, and the bluecap gnomes. Kyra and Mason meet Jack first (who turns out to be the Thunderbird) and he agrees to show them to the kelpies if they take the child Raven with them when they leave - he was born on the island and is either Jack of Felix's son. Gunora has taken over the kelpies as a witch and is implied as the leader Felix's lover. Kyra kills Felix, Gunora tries to do the ritual, Mason's demon gift activates as necromancy and he animates Felix's body to kill Gunora. Kyra says the ritual only failed because Terra intervened. They leave with Raven and Kyra tells Mason that she is pregnant.
Spoilers ahead!!
Kyra gets an email that her cousin Gunora wasn't in Asgard when she burned the bifrost, she was on earth looking for a cure to a Valkyrie disease. Turns out, the only cure is to transfer the disease through a ritual to another Valkyrie. Originally she planned to find the one backway into Asgard but since she's stuck on Earth she decides to try and force it on Kyra. Kyra wants to help her find a real cure but Gunora tries to kill her anyway. Gunora is sent to Grandill prison island and arranges for the young goblin twins to be kidnapped, forcing Kyra and Mason to break into the prison. The island is ruled by three prisoner factions - Felix and the kelpies, Jack and his crew, and the bluecap gnomes. Kyra and Mason meet Jack first (who turns out to be the Thunderbird) and he agrees to show them to the kelpies if they take the child Raven with them when they leave - he was born on the island and is either Jack of Felix's son. Gunora has taken over the kelpies as a witch and is implied as the leader Felix's lover. Kyra kills Felix, Gunora tries to do the ritual, Mason's demon gift activates as necromancy and he animates Felix's body to kill Gunora. Kyra says the ritual only failed because Terra intervened. They leave with Raven and Kyra tells Mason that she is pregnant.
April 7, 2022
I’ve read all five of these now (this one came out in March of 2022) and am pleased that I have two or three shorts in the same milieu still to enjoy.
Unusually for series, the plotting of these novels has gotten ever better as the series develops. Usually the one idea the author started with was the good one, and the others in the series are weaker: absolutely not so with these.
The characters have also developed in satisfying and believable ways. The love story between Kyra and Mason is fully out in the open and there are elements of dull married couple creeping in. What am I saying! Their lives are still full of magic and mayhem and don’t stay dull for more than a paragraph. And then only for comparative purposes. But they are fully committed each to other, living in the ‘burbs, and Mason is going into politics (yuk!). The stability of the relationship enables McDougall to lay down some wise thoughts about family and friendship.
McDougall has thought through her back stories, enabling her to bring family members into the mix. In this case Kyra finds out that one of her cousin Valkyries, Gunora, became stuck on Earth at the same time that Kyra stranded herself when she destroyed Bifröst, the last bridge to Earth. Gunora is not on Kyra’s list of the inhabitants of Asgard she misses.
McDougall searches out yet more interesting mythical beasties for this book (I do love me some mythical beasties) and tells us that the young of goblins are called goblits. I think she made that up: and I love it.
She also has her own Critter Wrangler Rules (a bit like NCIS’s Gibbs’ list of rules) which she frequently breaks. (That never ends well.) Mix all this mayhem inducing stuff together, and the plot develops from there.
I am not a fan of soppy-kissing romances, but this is almost on a par with Lethal Weapon 4 (I think that’s the right number) where Rene Russo and Mel Gibson show each other their scars (takes a while). Mud, blood and snot the lovers take in stride. Kyra and Mason have each other’s backs, at all times. For that I will forgive occasional knee-trembler ear nibblings. One can only yearn for that kind of attention in the real world.
Unusually for series, the plotting of these novels has gotten ever better as the series develops. Usually the one idea the author started with was the good one, and the others in the series are weaker: absolutely not so with these.
The characters have also developed in satisfying and believable ways. The love story between Kyra and Mason is fully out in the open and there are elements of dull married couple creeping in. What am I saying! Their lives are still full of magic and mayhem and don’t stay dull for more than a paragraph. And then only for comparative purposes. But they are fully committed each to other, living in the ‘burbs, and Mason is going into politics (yuk!). The stability of the relationship enables McDougall to lay down some wise thoughts about family and friendship.
McDougall has thought through her back stories, enabling her to bring family members into the mix. In this case Kyra finds out that one of her cousin Valkyries, Gunora, became stuck on Earth at the same time that Kyra stranded herself when she destroyed Bifröst, the last bridge to Earth. Gunora is not on Kyra’s list of the inhabitants of Asgard she misses.
McDougall searches out yet more interesting mythical beasties for this book (I do love me some mythical beasties) and tells us that the young of goblins are called goblits. I think she made that up: and I love it.
She also has her own Critter Wrangler Rules (a bit like NCIS’s Gibbs’ list of rules) which she frequently breaks. (That never ends well.) Mix all this mayhem inducing stuff together, and the plot develops from there.
I am not a fan of soppy-kissing romances, but this is almost on a par with Lethal Weapon 4 (I think that’s the right number) where Rene Russo and Mel Gibson show each other their scars (takes a while). Mud, blood and snot the lovers take in stride. Kyra and Mason have each other’s backs, at all times. For that I will forgive occasional knee-trembler ear nibblings. One can only yearn for that kind of attention in the real world.
December 6, 2023
Mixed Feelings While Reviewing
This particular book in the series gave me difficulty while trying to review and rate. I took quite a break from the series, and just recently picked it back up.
There’s a number of positive, and not so positive, reasons for this difficulty.
I truly appreciate that the author doesn’t go into long rambles from previous books, but with the fair amount of supporting characters involved in these, it becomes complicated at times when a name is suddenly thrown back in, especially in the last few pages of a book. (Eg. Angus??)
There’s also a lot, and I mean A LOT, of sub-plots, that have taken place. Some resolved, some not. I’ve written reviews on every one of the books I’ve read so far, and it’s helped me to go back through them to see how I’ve felt in other ones. It appears, I’ve mentioned it before.
I would recommend this is probably a series best read one after another, but I realize that’s not always a realistic choice for many, or even an option many would choose. Sometimes I myself need a break from reading about the same characters and worlds, so I can understand that.
Correspondingly, I read for enjoyment, not as homework, or a job assignment, and I’d like to keep it that way. Especially considering that lately, and particularly in the fantasy genre it seems, there’s no conclusion or termination to a series. Trilogies are no longer the end point it seems. And then don’t get me started on the novellas that are additionally provided on the side-some of which you’re lost if you don’t read them. Not saying this is one of those, just bringing it up as a point of my opinion (and contention periodically) of novellas. Just saying…
But, I digress. Lol
I will continue on with the series, and I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys a brighter, less contentious, side of the fantasy genre.
This particular book in the series gave me difficulty while trying to review and rate. I took quite a break from the series, and just recently picked it back up.
There’s a number of positive, and not so positive, reasons for this difficulty.
I truly appreciate that the author doesn’t go into long rambles from previous books, but with the fair amount of supporting characters involved in these, it becomes complicated at times when a name is suddenly thrown back in, especially in the last few pages of a book. (Eg. Angus??)
There’s also a lot, and I mean A LOT, of sub-plots, that have taken place. Some resolved, some not. I’ve written reviews on every one of the books I’ve read so far, and it’s helped me to go back through them to see how I’ve felt in other ones. It appears, I’ve mentioned it before.
I would recommend this is probably a series best read one after another, but I realize that’s not always a realistic choice for many, or even an option many would choose. Sometimes I myself need a break from reading about the same characters and worlds, so I can understand that.
Correspondingly, I read for enjoyment, not as homework, or a job assignment, and I’d like to keep it that way. Especially considering that lately, and particularly in the fantasy genre it seems, there’s no conclusion or termination to a series. Trilogies are no longer the end point it seems. And then don’t get me started on the novellas that are additionally provided on the side-some of which you’re lost if you don’t read them. Not saying this is one of those, just bringing it up as a point of my opinion (and contention periodically) of novellas. Just saying…
But, I digress. Lol
I will continue on with the series, and I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys a brighter, less contentious, side of the fantasy genre.
July 21, 2024
Each one of these books gets better & better. I enjoy all the characters, most of them are so much fun. This one was certainly a nail biter.
Kyra, Guta and the reast the rescue's are finally moving in with Mason. It will be a big adjustment but everyone is looking forward to it. Mason is beginning his bid for prime minister of the Alchemists but he is also kind of moody. Then Kyra gets a call from her cousin Gunora and asks kyra and Mason to bail her out of jail. Kyra feels bad & does it. Gunora wants Kyra's blood and sword to rid herself of a curse and she will use force if she has to. After several attempts on Kyra she is arrested again and sent to prison. That's when Kyra & Mason learn that the twins were kidnapped and the ransom is Gunora. That is when our group including their new friend Cricket plan a break out. Once on the island they discover a group of deadly kelpies and Gunora has become important to the leader Phelix and he is not willing to give her up. Kyra & Mason are about to face the fight of their life. They have to succeed in order to get the twins back. There was a super surprise at the end of this one. I absolutely loved it.
Kyra, Guta and the reast the rescue's are finally moving in with Mason. It will be a big adjustment but everyone is looking forward to it. Mason is beginning his bid for prime minister of the Alchemists but he is also kind of moody. Then Kyra gets a call from her cousin Gunora and asks kyra and Mason to bail her out of jail. Kyra feels bad & does it. Gunora wants Kyra's blood and sword to rid herself of a curse and she will use force if she has to. After several attempts on Kyra she is arrested again and sent to prison. That's when Kyra & Mason learn that the twins were kidnapped and the ransom is Gunora. That is when our group including their new friend Cricket plan a break out. Once on the island they discover a group of deadly kelpies and Gunora has become important to the leader Phelix and he is not willing to give her up. Kyra & Mason are about to face the fight of their life. They have to succeed in order to get the twins back. There was a super surprise at the end of this one. I absolutely loved it.
February 25, 2023
Pure love for this series! This one is amazing!
Kim McDougall is one of my favorite authors to read and collect, simply because she combines a few of my favorite things such as rescuing critters, made families and gargoyles! There is plenty of paranormal mixed in with tons of intrigue, joyful moments, fear and angst as well as the combination of blended societies and everyday life set in a post apocalyptic world, a helping of hope for earth/Terra. If you add a splash of Asgard and Valkyrie antics and valor to the multitudes of action scenes you will also fall in love or addiction to this series, I think.
Kyra and Mason have their hands full with careers and each other not to mention all the "found family" they have built, and the most incredible world building that makes me ache to go there and join the fun.
This is definitely a family friendly read with extremely low language and barely reaches a PG-13 rating although there are a few "grown up" scenes but were left tastefully vague. This is definitely a series worth collecting.
Kim McDougall is one of my favorite authors to read and collect, simply because she combines a few of my favorite things such as rescuing critters, made families and gargoyles! There is plenty of paranormal mixed in with tons of intrigue, joyful moments, fear and angst as well as the combination of blended societies and everyday life set in a post apocalyptic world, a helping of hope for earth/Terra. If you add a splash of Asgard and Valkyrie antics and valor to the multitudes of action scenes you will also fall in love or addiction to this series, I think.
Kyra and Mason have their hands full with careers and each other not to mention all the "found family" they have built, and the most incredible world building that makes me ache to go there and join the fun.
This is definitely a family friendly read with extremely low language and barely reaches a PG-13 rating although there are a few "grown up" scenes but were left tastefully vague. This is definitely a series worth collecting.
February 9, 2024
This is book 5 of the Valkyrie Bestiary series. In the beginning, there is emotional turmoil between Mason and, well everyone. He is overloaded and has no idea what to do, except hide and drink. But ever patient Kyra helps him through this. But of course, that couldn’t be the only problem they have! Kyra’s cousin, Gunora, was left behind in this world when Kyra burned the bridge to Asgard. And she is sick and pissed! Kyra does not want to save her, but is given no choice when the twins are kidnapped.
They end up on the prison island and meet many new creatures and critters in this book. The main ones being the bloodthirsty kelpies. (I’m not sure I’ll ever look at horses the same again!) There is once again lots of action, suspense and heart wrenching feelings. Not only for Kyra but for the new “critter” she ends up adopting. And the ending! I was not expecting Mason to end up being able to do what he did! And the other surprise - just WOW!! (No spoilers!!). I can’t wait to see where life takes this family next!
They end up on the prison island and meet many new creatures and critters in this book. The main ones being the bloodthirsty kelpies. (I’m not sure I’ll ever look at horses the same again!) There is once again lots of action, suspense and heart wrenching feelings. Not only for Kyra but for the new “critter” she ends up adopting. And the ending! I was not expecting Mason to end up being able to do what he did! And the other surprise - just WOW!! (No spoilers!!). I can’t wait to see where life takes this family next!
March 22, 2022
Also frustrated
I agree with the reviewer who was frustrated by Kyra’s choices.
I also love this series and I appreciate her compassion and loyalty and love for seemingly unlovable creatures.
My problem with this book is her unreasonable guilt and compassion for someone who showed repeatedly that she did not care about her. I can understand the lingering guilt regarding her cousin’s brother but once that person tries to repeatedly manipulate you and then kill you, I think it’s time to absolve yourself.
I also really hope she now is not cursed but part of me feels she deserves it for her stupidity.
Again, I do love this series, with the secondary characters and Kyra and Mason’s love story. But I feel the author took Kyra’s gullibility too far. I hate to say this but it seems that for a Valkyrie she is a bit weak.
I hope the next book is better..
I agree with the reviewer who was frustrated by Kyra’s choices.
I also love this series and I appreciate her compassion and loyalty and love for seemingly unlovable creatures.
My problem with this book is her unreasonable guilt and compassion for someone who showed repeatedly that she did not care about her. I can understand the lingering guilt regarding her cousin’s brother but once that person tries to repeatedly manipulate you and then kill you, I think it’s time to absolve yourself.
I also really hope she now is not cursed but part of me feels she deserves it for her stupidity.
Again, I do love this series, with the secondary characters and Kyra and Mason’s love story. But I feel the author took Kyra’s gullibility too far. I hate to say this but it seems that for a Valkyrie she is a bit weak.
I hope the next book is better..
January 8, 2023
Another good read ... mostly
I like the band of chosen family is these books, and the world they live in is fascinating, if downright terrifying at times. I hope what they saw in this book leads to reform in future books once Mason gains political power. One issue was disappointing to me. There is a goblin family that lives in the compound. Father, daughter, and a bunch of sons. The daughter is off stuck "teaching" the boys, and she is never heard from or seen again in the story, except to wrong her hands in worry at the cottage door. Kyra decides to provide paying fun jobs for of the boy children, completely ignoring the girl child, leaving her to toil behind closed doors for no compensation and no appreciation. As usual. That's exceptionally awful to see, especially from a woman author who has created a strong female lead.
I like the band of chosen family is these books, and the world they live in is fascinating, if downright terrifying at times. I hope what they saw in this book leads to reform in future books once Mason gains political power. One issue was disappointing to me. There is a goblin family that lives in the compound. Father, daughter, and a bunch of sons. The daughter is off stuck "teaching" the boys, and she is never heard from or seen again in the story, except to wrong her hands in worry at the cottage door. Kyra decides to provide paying fun jobs for of the boy children, completely ignoring the girl child, leaving her to toil behind closed doors for no compensation and no appreciation. As usual. That's exceptionally awful to see, especially from a woman author who has created a strong female lead.
February 26, 2023
A fresh take on fantasy
I really enjoy this series. It's a bit of a new twist on a dystopian world that has undergone a major upheaval caused by Mother Nature herself. However, civilization has managed to survive in pockets and the living left behind, human and otherwise, have learned to adapt - not always harmoniously. The main protagonist is a pest control specialist who knows how to deal with the creatures of this new world. As a former Valkyrie, she's uniquely qualified for the position. The narrative and characters are well-developed and there's a fair amount of humor in addition to some solid storytelling. The books are an excellent way to spend a few hours in another time and place with characters you come to love doing what needs to be done to protect and improve an imperfect world.
I really enjoy this series. It's a bit of a new twist on a dystopian world that has undergone a major upheaval caused by Mother Nature herself. However, civilization has managed to survive in pockets and the living left behind, human and otherwise, have learned to adapt - not always harmoniously. The main protagonist is a pest control specialist who knows how to deal with the creatures of this new world. As a former Valkyrie, she's uniquely qualified for the position. The narrative and characters are well-developed and there's a fair amount of humor in addition to some solid storytelling. The books are an excellent way to spend a few hours in another time and place with characters you come to love doing what needs to be done to protect and improve an imperfect world.
March 17, 2022
love these characters
I am anxious to get the next book. These are the books that when a new one comes out your both excited and dreading it. Excited as you want to know what is next for these characters you have come to adore. Yet dread that as soon as you start reading, that’s a bit closer to the end of the book and you will have to be without the characters until the next book arrives.
I adored this story. Touched on so many of the characters in this world. Everyone seemed to have a moment. The way this story unraveled and flowed was lovely. Had a good pace and wasn’t rushed. Some of these characters seem a one time thing, but even they are so rich in development I hope to see them again in future.
Now the wait begins for the next chapter in kyra and masons story.
I am anxious to get the next book. These are the books that when a new one comes out your both excited and dreading it. Excited as you want to know what is next for these characters you have come to adore. Yet dread that as soon as you start reading, that’s a bit closer to the end of the book and you will have to be without the characters until the next book arrives.
I adored this story. Touched on so many of the characters in this world. Everyone seemed to have a moment. The way this story unraveled and flowed was lovely. Had a good pace and wasn’t rushed. Some of these characters seem a one time thing, but even they are so rich in development I hope to see them again in future.
Now the wait begins for the next chapter in kyra and masons story.
March 31, 2022
Another great addition to the Valkyrie Bestiary series!!
I can't explain how much I enjoy this series. Kyra is a fantastic, kick-ass heroine in a futuristic dystopian fantasy world that is like nothing else I've ever read. This series is funny & fresh & full of adventure. I never know what is going to happen next. I adore Kyra's menagerie & ever growing family of mythical creatures in the dystopian remains of Montreal. I don't know what else I can say about Kelpies Don't Fly that I haven't already gushed about in one of my reviews for the earlier books in the series. All I can say is, if you haven't tried this series yet, go for it! You can't go wrong with these adventures! Can't wait to see what happens next for Kyra & crew.
I can't explain how much I enjoy this series. Kyra is a fantastic, kick-ass heroine in a futuristic dystopian fantasy world that is like nothing else I've ever read. This series is funny & fresh & full of adventure. I never know what is going to happen next. I adore Kyra's menagerie & ever growing family of mythical creatures in the dystopian remains of Montreal. I don't know what else I can say about Kelpies Don't Fly that I haven't already gushed about in one of my reviews for the earlier books in the series. All I can say is, if you haven't tried this series yet, go for it! You can't go wrong with these adventures! Can't wait to see what happens next for Kyra & crew.
September 4, 2023
More family issues
The book starts with more relationship problems as Mason refuses to communicate with Kyra. Once that problem is solved, Kyra's past comes knocking, and she faces her sins while trying to help another Valkyrie.
Things get complicated when her cousin keeps trying to kill her, and she keeps falling for it. They get into an adventure that feels kind of pointless and end up with another rescue.
What bothered me about this book is that they make a big deal of Mason not being able to deal with his new power, when just a few books earlier, he made a null bracelet to help Kyra with that same issue. Where was it while Mason was having problems? Why was it never mentioned? Even if she lost it, Mason could have built another one. Overall, it was a good adventure, but the story had a few issues.
The book starts with more relationship problems as Mason refuses to communicate with Kyra. Once that problem is solved, Kyra's past comes knocking, and she faces her sins while trying to help another Valkyrie.
Things get complicated when her cousin keeps trying to kill her, and she keeps falling for it. They get into an adventure that feels kind of pointless and end up with another rescue.
What bothered me about this book is that they make a big deal of Mason not being able to deal with his new power, when just a few books earlier, he made a null bracelet to help Kyra with that same issue. Where was it while Mason was having problems? Why was it never mentioned? Even if she lost it, Mason could have built another one. Overall, it was a good adventure, but the story had a few issues.
April 9, 2022
Kelpies Don’t Fly is the 5th book in the Valkyrie Beastiary Series by Kim McDougall, it is a must to read all previous books before starting this one. Took me longer to finish this book as hadn’t been feeling well but very much enjoyed escaping to this world once more. Kyra takes us on another adventure that introduces us to new creatures & characters that I’m so excited to see in the following book as well as learn more of the history of the Valkyrie we didn’t know of before. Favourite part had to be the little bombshell that is revealed at the end of the book, can’t wait for the sixth book! Highly recommend this series!
September 10, 2022
Loved
I haven't enjoyed a series this much since I found Kim Harrison's Hollows series. It almost pains me to say I like this one better because of the 'Kritters"! Most series tend to get boring after book 3 but im still just as intrigued and in love with book 5 and looking forward to the next one!
I love the spunkyness of Kyra and her big heart. All of the characters in this series are amazing! The storyline keeps your attention. These books have EVERYTHING I want in a book; supernatural elements, spunky wit, a bad ass woman, cute critters and a little bit of romance but not sappy romance;). Kim McDougal is now in my top list of favorite authors!❤️
I haven't enjoyed a series this much since I found Kim Harrison's Hollows series. It almost pains me to say I like this one better because of the 'Kritters"! Most series tend to get boring after book 3 but im still just as intrigued and in love with book 5 and looking forward to the next one!
I love the spunkyness of Kyra and her big heart. All of the characters in this series are amazing! The storyline keeps your attention. These books have EVERYTHING I want in a book; supernatural elements, spunky wit, a bad ass woman, cute critters and a little bit of romance but not sappy romance;). Kim McDougal is now in my top list of favorite authors!❤️
April 8, 2022
HAPPILY EVER AFTER
Kyra the Valkyrie has a no good cousin who shows up with hate in her heart. Kyra meets each beat with kindness only to end up on a prison island to get back her cousin and exchange her for the lives of the goblin twins. In this book we see Mason & Kyra as a couple. Not always happy but always loving. They d added 2 more members to their ever growing critter sanctuary.
The best thing for me was the story ends. It concludes in a pregnancy but has definitive closure😉🤩. I will read more from this author.
Kyra the Valkyrie has a no good cousin who shows up with hate in her heart. Kyra meets each beat with kindness only to end up on a prison island to get back her cousin and exchange her for the lives of the goblin twins. In this book we see Mason & Kyra as a couple. Not always happy but always loving. They d added 2 more members to their ever growing critter sanctuary.
The best thing for me was the story ends. It concludes in a pregnancy but has definitive closure😉🤩. I will read more from this author.
May 2, 2023
-5 stars. i love this series. and i look forward to reading the next book.
i only wish the books were longer. i always regret reaching the end so quickly. i want more more more!
"it'll be okay. maybe even fun. aren't all girls supposed to like playing dress up? didn't you have barbies when you were a kid?"
"i did. but they were all eaten by my t-rex doll.
"mason swore and brought his stone fist down on a furry head." [so he can still turn to stone if he wants, even though he's no longer immortal]
i only wish the books were longer. i always regret reaching the end so quickly. i want more more more!
"it'll be okay. maybe even fun. aren't all girls supposed to like playing dress up? didn't you have barbies when you were a kid?"
"i did. but they were all eaten by my t-rex doll.
"mason swore and brought his stone fist down on a furry head." [so he can still turn to stone if he wants, even though he's no longer immortal]
March 15, 2022
WOW
Another awesome book in this series. Each book advances the fascinating storyline with intriguing characters with a depth of personality only found written by authors who care about fleshing out not only the
characters but also locations , backgrounds, everything connected to what they are writing about. If you enjoy books by Anne Bishop, Michelle Sahara, Patricia Briggs or Ilona Andrews then you will want to read this series.
Another awesome book in this series. Each book advances the fascinating storyline with intriguing characters with a depth of personality only found written by authors who care about fleshing out not only the
characters but also locations , backgrounds, everything connected to what they are writing about. If you enjoy books by Anne Bishop, Michelle Sahara, Patricia Briggs or Ilona Andrews then you will want to read this series.
March 18, 2022
Love this series
Apocalyptic series are one of my many favorites. This one is great. Mother Earth got tired of being misused and pretty much wiped out civilization. Lovely characters -some of my favorite mythological, fae, etc. types abound. They just keep getting better. Lovely, twisty plots, intriguing characters, (Mason, Kyra, Jacoby, and too many more to mention) and more settings than can be counted add up to a continuing great read.
Apocalyptic series are one of my many favorites. This one is great. Mother Earth got tired of being misused and pretty much wiped out civilization. Lovely characters -some of my favorite mythological, fae, etc. types abound. They just keep getting better. Lovely, twisty plots, intriguing characters, (Mason, Kyra, Jacoby, and too many more to mention) and more settings than can be counted add up to a continuing great read.
March 25, 2022
An adventure to love
I love this series so much, I feel bereft when I come to the end of each adventure. I adore Kyra, her strength and vulnerability and her fiery relationship with Mason. She collects strays that make me smile, from pygmy krakens, goblins and hellhounds. All of her critters have so much personality. In this adventure, Kyra’s cousin Gunorra imposes herself into Kyra’s life and turns their world upside down. I can’t wait to see where they go next!
I love this series so much, I feel bereft when I come to the end of each adventure. I adore Kyra, her strength and vulnerability and her fiery relationship with Mason. She collects strays that make me smile, from pygmy krakens, goblins and hellhounds. All of her critters have so much personality. In this adventure, Kyra’s cousin Gunorra imposes herself into Kyra’s life and turns their world upside down. I can’t wait to see where they go next!
March 25, 2022
good installment
These books have become one of my favorite series. I look forward to the release of the next one and haven’t been disappointed by one yet. This one did have some stupidity, I may have rolled my eyes a few times. The decisions, while dumb, did track with the characters personality. I also respect and understand those choices from the authors pov. I’m looking forward to reading what the new character additions will bring.
These books have become one of my favorite series. I look forward to the release of the next one and haven’t been disappointed by one yet. This one did have some stupidity, I may have rolled my eyes a few times. The decisions, while dumb, did track with the characters personality. I also respect and understand those choices from the authors pov. I’m looking forward to reading what the new character additions will bring.
April 20, 2022
Yet another great book in the series
Once again, another great addition to the Valkyrie Best I art series.
No matter how great family can be, an should be, there is always that one family member who is a "Bad Apple."Of course some Bad Apples can and due change. Second and third chance are wonder. But some Bad Apples step beyond redemption
Meet cousin who is happy to sacrifice Keira!
But Keira has her on family to protect. And her needs to survive !
Once again, another great addition to the Valkyrie Best I art series.
No matter how great family can be, an should be, there is always that one family member who is a "Bad Apple."Of course some Bad Apples can and due change. Second and third chance are wonder. But some Bad Apples step beyond redemption
Meet cousin who is happy to sacrifice Keira!
But Keira has her on family to protect. And her needs to survive !
August 11, 2022
I wasn’t ready for the story to end.
Kyra manages to get herself embroiled in danger trying to help her friends and all living things needing assistance or a home. She and Mason face an impossible challenge in rescuing a bad relative in order to save two of their own adopted family under their responsibility. On the journey, they acquire another special oddity into their fold. I wasn’t ready for the story to end.
Kyra manages to get herself embroiled in danger trying to help her friends and all living things needing assistance or a home. She and Mason face an impossible challenge in rescuing a bad relative in order to save two of their own adopted family under their responsibility. On the journey, they acquire another special oddity into their fold. I wasn’t ready for the story to end.
October 14, 2022
Awesomeness!
The further I get into Kyra’s world, the more mystery’s are revealed! And the more I want to read. 😂🤷♀️ Great stories, little hints of other worlds and more to come are always welcome and imaginative critters on the horizon as well. What’s not to like? And now a baby on the way? How is the happy couple going to cope with a growing teenager, a newborn and the demands of the critter business!
The further I get into Kyra’s world, the more mystery’s are revealed! And the more I want to read. 😂🤷♀️ Great stories, little hints of other worlds and more to come are always welcome and imaginative critters on the horizon as well. What’s not to like? And now a baby on the way? How is the happy couple going to cope with a growing teenager, a newborn and the demands of the critter business!
January 3, 2024
oh what a night!!!
Absolutely adore this whole series. But this book has something magical. I must say it starts out pretty rough, which was to be expected. And it got a little rougher. This one is dark and yet it is filled with light and beauty and absolute magnificence. Kyra is one of my all time favorite characters!!! She is just something special. Amazing as always and I can’t wait to see what happens next!!!
Absolutely adore this whole series. But this book has something magical. I must say it starts out pretty rough, which was to be expected. And it got a little rougher. This one is dark and yet it is filled with light and beauty and absolute magnificence. Kyra is one of my all time favorite characters!!! She is just something special. Amazing as always and I can’t wait to see what happens next!!!
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