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Magical Misfits #1
Mates: Minerva
Forget Murphy—it should be called Minerva's Law.
Paranormal affairs officer Minerva Lucent has always wanted to stand out by making a difference in the supernatural world. Unfortunately, she's only managed to stick out—like a sore thumb. Her stun spells often misfire and freeze people by mistake. Her magical restraints have been known to pull objects to them like magnets. And last week, her truth spell caused a perp to start singing in verse.
But when a coveted guardian position opens up, Minerva's determined to finally show everyone that she's the witch for the job. She makes a plan to redeem her reputation, and she's about to set it in motion, when her old finishing school pal, Roxana Goldenscales, shows up on her doorstep in dire need of assistance.
Can Minerva enact her plan and help Roxana (knock on wand!)? Or will she have to choose between becoming a guardian and being a good friend to her old mate?
Paranormal affairs officer Minerva Lucent has always wanted to stand out by making a difference in the supernatural world. Unfortunately, she's only managed to stick out—like a sore thumb. Her stun spells often misfire and freeze people by mistake. Her magical restraints have been known to pull objects to them like magnets. And last week, her truth spell caused a perp to start singing in verse.
But when a coveted guardian position opens up, Minerva's determined to finally show everyone that she's the witch for the job. She makes a plan to redeem her reputation, and she's about to set it in motion, when her old finishing school pal, Roxana Goldenscales, shows up on her doorstep in dire need of assistance.
Can Minerva enact her plan and help Roxana (knock on wand!)? Or will she have to choose between becoming a guardian and being a good friend to her old mate?
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2022
174 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 15, 2025
Basically the show Friends but magical and trying to have action as well as drama. Some interesting variations on the classic magical creatures, but also some serious issues.
It started out funny, so I forgave the little goofs here and there.
But then the inconsistencies piled up, and made it confusing or blatantly contradictory at times.
The banter and dialogue/characters in general get weaker once the "action" starts. I'm not sure we needed the action at all to have a fun story with some drama and growth, but it was a potentially compelling driver... it needed better pacing with some forshadowing of potential character motivations before hand that then got called up vs. an info dump at the moment followed by repetition of things we already knew which did not change it.
The dialogue in general fails to ring true at all which spoils the big reveal and any touching/meaningful moments sadly.
I like the structure - it's a cool idea to rotate between POVs. The lack of character depth or development takes away from that though.
There were also a few places where the setting seemed to jump around or action/setting made no sense and threw me out of the story.
Character motivations, especially supporting characters, were distractingly inconsistent.
For instance:
Why is one character's boss on their side about a promotion but then next interaction thinks their a total failure lucky to even have this job?
And why does the other character's boss bother them so much when he seems perfectly fine and goes out of his way to help?
The attempts at representing different perspectives were... clearly lacking genuine experience. That's not the worst (sadly common), but I thought we were all heading for more authenticity and accurate representation these days, so it was disappointing.
Write what you know OR at least get some alpha/beta readers who do know and will give critical and thoughtful feedback.
More specific examples (no spoilers):
The big reveal failed for me so badly, because
A. the character confirming it did not feel fleshed out/developed.
B. she was never really alluded to before showing up, despite the supposedly well known/established relationship.
C. the dialogue felt SO forced and unrealistic.
And the touching moment after was likewise a huge flop due to stilted weird dialogue and no genuine jokes/banter.
The twist/reveal just before (on the stairs) would have worked well if not for the weird inconsistencies or leaps of logic taken by the character finding out and the complete lack of building tension to show us WHY the other character was going back on their word or still undecided after having decided.
The reaction itself was fine, and in keeping with the character (guilt/not wanting to be a burden was established well), but the wording/reasoning of it was so... repearing things that were not overheard? It was jarring and completely kicked me out of the story.
I wish the ending had gotten as much attention as the opening when we first meet them all did. I could have forgiven the sagging middle and kept overlooking the inconsistencies better if it had.
---------
⚠️Example WITH SPOILER of the WORST inconsistency of all below⚠️
----------
The sister. Everything about her.
First she ran away. Then she was killed with mom. Now she's alive but evil and elsewhere? But she comes back, which is fine, BUT it lesds me to another issue.
It would have been fine IF we had any way of knowing she'd realize there was a decent. We need that for when the cops show up anyway so >.> maybe less obsession over how the hot drinks get made and more time on details like this would have helped a lot. Anyway....
Once she is back though, their conversation in her shop is just... a mess. It read like the sister had no consistent/developed perspective at all. The warning was not an accident at all, so does she actually want to help? But if so, why did it take a first descent to warn her? And WHY was she HAPPY about it before that? And if she has always been wanting this, why wasn't she around more trying? And what was even the point of any of it? Why stop by at all? Is there a reason she needed to know what the sin was?
That said, I did like the idea of sin as a separation of self from those you care about or a betrayal that leads to some self-isolation. It was a bit muddy coming through.
I'm still not sure why she believed she could never lie but does it a few times quite clearly before the one that does do the trick, but it was a cool concept.
It started out funny, so I forgave the little goofs here and there.
But then the inconsistencies piled up, and made it confusing or blatantly contradictory at times.
The banter and dialogue/characters in general get weaker once the "action" starts. I'm not sure we needed the action at all to have a fun story with some drama and growth, but it was a potentially compelling driver... it needed better pacing with some forshadowing of potential character motivations before hand that then got called up vs. an info dump at the moment followed by repetition of things we already knew which did not change it.
The dialogue in general fails to ring true at all which spoils the big reveal and any touching/meaningful moments sadly.
I like the structure - it's a cool idea to rotate between POVs. The lack of character depth or development takes away from that though.
There were also a few places where the setting seemed to jump around or action/setting made no sense and threw me out of the story.
Character motivations, especially supporting characters, were distractingly inconsistent.
For instance:
Why is one character's boss on their side about a promotion but then next interaction thinks their a total failure lucky to even have this job?
And why does the other character's boss bother them so much when he seems perfectly fine and goes out of his way to help?
The attempts at representing different perspectives were... clearly lacking genuine experience. That's not the worst (sadly common), but I thought we were all heading for more authenticity and accurate representation these days, so it was disappointing.
Write what you know OR at least get some alpha/beta readers who do know and will give critical and thoughtful feedback.
More specific examples (no spoilers):
The big reveal failed for me so badly, because
A. the character confirming it did not feel fleshed out/developed.
B. she was never really alluded to before showing up, despite the supposedly well known/established relationship.
C. the dialogue felt SO forced and unrealistic.
And the touching moment after was likewise a huge flop due to stilted weird dialogue and no genuine jokes/banter.
The twist/reveal just before (on the stairs) would have worked well if not for the weird inconsistencies or leaps of logic taken by the character finding out and the complete lack of building tension to show us WHY the other character was going back on their word or still undecided after having decided.
The reaction itself was fine, and in keeping with the character (guilt/not wanting to be a burden was established well), but the wording/reasoning of it was so... repearing things that were not overheard? It was jarring and completely kicked me out of the story.
I wish the ending had gotten as much attention as the opening when we first meet them all did. I could have forgiven the sagging middle and kept overlooking the inconsistencies better if it had.
---------
⚠️Example WITH SPOILER of the WORST inconsistency of all below⚠️
----------
The sister. Everything about her.
First she ran away. Then she was killed with mom. Now she's alive but evil and elsewhere? But she comes back, which is fine, BUT it lesds me to another issue.
It would have been fine IF we had any way of knowing she'd realize there was a decent. We need that for when the cops show up anyway so >.> maybe less obsession over how the hot drinks get made and more time on details like this would have helped a lot. Anyway....
Once she is back though, their conversation in her shop is just... a mess. It read like the sister had no consistent/developed perspective at all. The warning was not an accident at all, so does she actually want to help? But if so, why did it take a first descent to warn her? And WHY was she HAPPY about it before that? And if she has always been wanting this, why wasn't she around more trying? And what was even the point of any of it? Why stop by at all? Is there a reason she needed to know what the sin was?
That said, I did like the idea of sin as a separation of self from those you care about or a betrayal that leads to some self-isolation. It was a bit muddy coming through.
I'm still not sure why she believed she could never lie but does it a few times quite clearly before the one that does do the trick, but it was a cool concept.
June 4, 2024
Very delightful and entertaining book! A fun urban fantasy and paranormal story about 6 magical misfit friends who are perfect for each other! I couldn't get enough of their antics and their close-knit friendship.
This book features Minerva but does go back and forth between all of their POVs which I loved. It was fun seeing things from their individual perspectives and diving a little bit further into their personal stories. Great set up for the series. I'm looking forward to the reading the next book in a couple of days. I need to know what happens for all of these misfits. They are the ones who tend to be on the outside of their species (vampires, werewolves, dragona, mage, witch, etc.), no matter how much they try.
I loved Minerva's quirkiness with casting spells. I kept hoping that they would work correctly for her. Maybe as the series progresses we'll get to see her having lots of great successes. But I have to say that Giggles makes the mistake all worth it! So funny!
If you enjoy fantasy and magic and paranormal, or just one of those, give this book and series a try! I've really enjoyed what I've read from this author. I'd had her books on my TBR shelf for a while and kept wanting to read them and I'm so glad that I finally did last year! I've read under both of her pen names, fantasy and non-fantasy. So if fantasy isn't your thing, go try her other books! I've loved them!
Content: No language. No kissing or anything further. Just a group of paranormal friends trying to help each other and those around them.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This book features Minerva but does go back and forth between all of their POVs which I loved. It was fun seeing things from their individual perspectives and diving a little bit further into their personal stories. Great set up for the series. I'm looking forward to the reading the next book in a couple of days. I need to know what happens for all of these misfits. They are the ones who tend to be on the outside of their species (vampires, werewolves, dragona, mage, witch, etc.), no matter how much they try.
I loved Minerva's quirkiness with casting spells. I kept hoping that they would work correctly for her. Maybe as the series progresses we'll get to see her having lots of great successes. But I have to say that Giggles makes the mistake all worth it! So funny!
If you enjoy fantasy and magic and paranormal, or just one of those, give this book and series a try! I've really enjoyed what I've read from this author. I'd had her books on my TBR shelf for a while and kept wanting to read them and I'm so glad that I finally did last year! I've read under both of her pen names, fantasy and non-fantasy. So if fantasy isn't your thing, go try her other books! I've loved them!
Content: No language. No kissing or anything further. Just a group of paranormal friends trying to help each other and those around them.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
April 26, 2024
This new Urban Fantasy takes you on a fast-paced ride. It will make you laugh and maybe tear up a little but I found myself laughing out loud quite often. I am so invested in these 6 friends. In this world paranormals stick to their own kind and to see these 6 friends living together and navigating life together definitely gives us such a different take on PNR Urban Fantasy. I've not read anything quite like it and that's exactly why I love it. This book focuses mostly on Minerva. She is a witch that struggles to be a witch. Her spells go wrong and she tries desperately to bond to a familiar that will help her witchy status. She wants a special position within the New York Paranormal Affairs (it's like police for the paranormal world). Her brother, Clark tries to be the perfect student and mage even though he is dealing with a failed marriage. She has a vampire for a friend, Izaak that is terrible at being a vampire. Izaak strives to be an actor which clearly presents problems for a vampire in this world. Xander is a super sweet and also hilarious wolf that has no pack and we meet Minerva's dragon friend Roxie with a crazy life she is trying to escape. Bevin is a demon spawn that wants to be good. Even though these friends are pretty solid and sticking together, something evil is afoot and I am anxious to see if the friends will stick it out or if they will be torn apart.
May 18, 2024
I devoured this series! The only regret I have about reading this was not reading it sooner.
This book "technically" features Minerva (a witch who struggles with casting reliable spells) and follows her journey in attempting to get promoted from the NYPAD (think the NYPD but for Paranormal Affairs) to the Guardians (they deal with the BIG bad guys... demons!)
I say it "technically" follows Minerva for book one because you really get equal POVs from all the characters! Reading this book feels like watching a tv show - each chapter is broken down into engaging snapshots of adventure, loaded with tons of banter between friends.
If you liked Friends, New Girl, or Harry Potter... guess what?! This book is the perfect blend of all three while still magically remaining completely unique and with its own voice! This series is a must-read!
This book "technically" features Minerva (a witch who struggles with casting reliable spells) and follows her journey in attempting to get promoted from the NYPAD (think the NYPD but for Paranormal Affairs) to the Guardians (they deal with the BIG bad guys... demons!)
I say it "technically" follows Minerva for book one because you really get equal POVs from all the characters! Reading this book feels like watching a tv show - each chapter is broken down into engaging snapshots of adventure, loaded with tons of banter between friends.
If you liked Friends, New Girl, or Harry Potter... guess what?! This book is the perfect blend of all three while still magically remaining completely unique and with its own voice! This series is a must-read!
June 18, 2022
I’ve never read this author before, but I’m definitely delighted that I have discovered her. This book was not at all what I was expecting, but it was a ton of fun. I expected more of a mystery, but what I got was a fun-filled book with great characters, a look at how we can all grow and learn, and the best way to be your friend’s friend. I was a little bit thrown off by all the differing points of few, but when I got used to that, I couldn’t imagine the book any way else. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book to see what happens next in this zany adventure. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 17, 2026
That was entertaining. I really don't understand half of what is going on, but it was fun. You are kind of tossed in without knowing anything about the world. You just have to figure it out as you go and guess at the rest. The characters were all fun. I want to know more about Giggles. Where is her book?
January 20, 2025
Audiobook B0D5SSY44J
Purple Puppy Publishing
August 7, 2022
Purchased on Chirp
This is a very obvious Friends fanfiction story except with a paranormal twist. Six different people, including a brother and sister, who hang out in a “coffee” shop and live their supernatural lives next to regular humans who have no idea the supernatural world exists. Well, five friends hang out and one rich and famous friend shows up at their doorstep escaping an arranged marriage. A clueless woman who has no idea how the real world works. Like paying for things and cooking and, well, you get the picture. Sound like Rachel?
I loved Friends when it came out. It was original and funny and fairly relatable. This is not. And not because there’s magic and supernatural beings. It’s because the characters do the most stupid shit and are one-dimensional, lacking depth of any kind. I mean, could they be any more idiotic? I kept listening, hoping it would get better, but it didn’t. Minerva especially pissed me off with how she treated her pigeon familiar. Wow. What a bitch. The various narrators did a decent job, but the story falls well below my expectations. I will not be continuing the series.
Purple Puppy Publishing
August 7, 2022
Purchased on Chirp
This is a very obvious Friends fanfiction story except with a paranormal twist. Six different people, including a brother and sister, who hang out in a “coffee” shop and live their supernatural lives next to regular humans who have no idea the supernatural world exists. Well, five friends hang out and one rich and famous friend shows up at their doorstep escaping an arranged marriage. A clueless woman who has no idea how the real world works. Like paying for things and cooking and, well, you get the picture. Sound like Rachel?
I loved Friends when it came out. It was original and funny and fairly relatable. This is not. And not because there’s magic and supernatural beings. It’s because the characters do the most stupid shit and are one-dimensional, lacking depth of any kind. I mean, could they be any more idiotic? I kept listening, hoping it would get better, but it didn’t. Minerva especially pissed me off with how she treated her pigeon familiar. Wow. What a bitch. The various narrators did a decent job, but the story falls well below my expectations. I will not be continuing the series.
August 4, 2024
Did I decide to read this because of the title? Yes, yes I did.
Imagine you are reading a novelization of an episode of Friends. Then imagine that it’s not Friends, but a show like Friends. Only in this version, the friends are a witch, a wizard, a demon-spawn, a werewolf, a vampire, and a dragon. And they are each adorable in their own ways, and the focus is on their friendship and not their paranormal lives
The main character in this entry in the series is an adorkable witch who is terrible at casting spells and accidentally makes a pigeon her animal familiar. Everyone has paranormal problems and romantic interests and some of them are roommates or live near each other, but no worries. Everything is going to come out okay. If you are looking for a book you can read the same way you watch Friends in the background while you are doing something else, this may be a series for you.
Imagine you are reading a novelization of an episode of Friends. Then imagine that it’s not Friends, but a show like Friends. Only in this version, the friends are a witch, a wizard, a demon-spawn, a werewolf, a vampire, and a dragon. And they are each adorable in their own ways, and the focus is on their friendship and not their paranormal lives
The main character in this entry in the series is an adorkable witch who is terrible at casting spells and accidentally makes a pigeon her animal familiar. Everyone has paranormal problems and romantic interests and some of them are roommates or live near each other, but no worries. Everything is going to come out okay. If you are looking for a book you can read the same way you watch Friends in the background while you are doing something else, this may be a series for you.
June 13, 2022
A fantastic blend of the TV show Friends and Urban Fantasy! A wonderful beginning to a brand new series! I can't wait to see what happens next!
*note- clean urban fantasy
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
*note- clean urban fantasy
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
April 30, 2024
A fantastic blend of the TV show Friends and Urban Fantasy! A wonderful beginning to a brand new series! I can't wait to see what happens next!
*note- clean urban fantasy
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
*note- clean urban fantasy
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
December 29, 2025
Things haven't always been easy for Minerva but they're finally looking up. She's graduated from the correctional courses she was placed into after one magically misfire too many. She could be up for a promotion to her dream job! Now if only her workplace's most dedicated hecklers would zip it. And she has an idea about that to- no one could possibly doubt her if she had one of the most unattainable fierce creature companions possible! But when do things ever go as planned?
Her brilliant plan starts to entirely unravel at the same time an old friend shows up. A runaway bride she knew in school who just happens to be one of the rarest supernaturals and fleeing her very VERY powerful father and fiancee-leaders of the dragon communities. Clearly the only option is to hide her so that she doesn't face a life of being an egg incubator without ever having autonomy. Easy....peasey? No. Definitely not.
While the summary of this book focuses primarily on Minerva this is one of the most evenly spaced in perspectives with multiple protagonists I've encountered in a while. Minerva's tight friend group include her sorcerer brother working in experimental cures, a vampire desperately trying to break into the acting business, a half-demon who's sworn off any temptation that could cause her to sin and get a fallen mark, and a half werewolf who doesn't have a pack.
Each one brings a fresh take on their type of supernatural. I found each personal story compelling and voice unique. I also enjoyed the very real nature of friendships in how they, like any relationship, have ups and downs. While the overarching plot may not be particularly unique or at times it feels like it's meandering, I took this this as a hefty introduction to a handful of fun characters. And I can honestly say I'm not sure what the next step is for them.
While I don't think this book will blow anyone away, I do find it incredibly entertaining with substance in its character work and world building.
Her brilliant plan starts to entirely unravel at the same time an old friend shows up. A runaway bride she knew in school who just happens to be one of the rarest supernaturals and fleeing her very VERY powerful father and fiancee-leaders of the dragon communities. Clearly the only option is to hide her so that she doesn't face a life of being an egg incubator without ever having autonomy. Easy....peasey? No. Definitely not.
While the summary of this book focuses primarily on Minerva this is one of the most evenly spaced in perspectives with multiple protagonists I've encountered in a while. Minerva's tight friend group include her sorcerer brother working in experimental cures, a vampire desperately trying to break into the acting business, a half-demon who's sworn off any temptation that could cause her to sin and get a fallen mark, and a half werewolf who doesn't have a pack.
Each one brings a fresh take on their type of supernatural. I found each personal story compelling and voice unique. I also enjoyed the very real nature of friendships in how they, like any relationship, have ups and downs. While the overarching plot may not be particularly unique or at times it feels like it's meandering, I took this this as a hefty introduction to a handful of fun characters. And I can honestly say I'm not sure what the next step is for them.
While I don't think this book will blow anyone away, I do find it incredibly entertaining with substance in its character work and world building.
November 9, 2024
This story starts out with full on paranormal fantasy. I’ll admit to enjoying Twilight, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and Narnia. This books has witches, werewolves, vampires, demon-spawn, and more. At the beginning couple chapters I was a little worried because the paranormal aspect was so high, but I soon got used to it all and settled in. There are many POVs in this magical misfits friend group. A witch struggling with her magic, a dragon running away from her wedding, a demon-spawn fighting to stay good, a werewolf with no permanent pack, a top notch mage, and a vampire who likes to act. This is a fantasy saga series. It is on the edgier side with innuendos and some language. I enjoyed it and will continue the series.
Content: one of the main characters is lesbian. That piece is only mentioned occasionally in passing and no action has been undertaken. Innuendos and some language.
Content: one of the main characters is lesbian. That piece is only mentioned occasionally in passing and no action has been undertaken. Innuendos and some language.
January 17, 2026
Paranormal affairs officer Minerva Lucent desperately wants to follow in her late father’s footsteps and become a guardian. But her magic’s always been erratic and unreliable, so she’s constantly rejected. When her old friend Princess Roxana Goldenscales runs away on her wedding day to avoid marrying a ruthless prince, she begs Minerva to hide her. This not only jeopardizes Minerva’s career aspirations but places her and her friends in grave danger.
The story is told from six different viewpoints: Minerva, Roxana, and four other friends. It took me a while to keep each character straight, but once I did, the story became quite enjoyable. There’s a lot of humor, but also serious challenges. Each character is trying to find his or her own way in a world where they don’t quite fit in. Their reliance on one another unfolds into a poignant story of friendship, trust, and being true to oneself. A fun read.
The story is told from six different viewpoints: Minerva, Roxana, and four other friends. It took me a while to keep each character straight, but once I did, the story became quite enjoyable. There’s a lot of humor, but also serious challenges. Each character is trying to find his or her own way in a world where they don’t quite fit in. Their reliance on one another unfolds into a poignant story of friendship, trust, and being true to oneself. A fun read.
April 13, 2024
While I liked the book, I was a bit confused about the story. The blurb let it read as a story about Minerva helping a good friend which jeopardizes her chance to be a guardian. Well, she did help but the story turned into a view into the lives of some friends/ mates/ misfits.
It was not just Minerva being in the centre of attention, everyone had its time to shine.
The book itself was written in an easy to read style, some revelations but not much. The ending was a bit unexpected, why have a cliffhanger? This was not needed in my opinion. That aside, the book gave enough incentive to start the next one for no plotline has ended in this one.
It was not just Minerva being in the centre of attention, everyone had its time to shine.
The book itself was written in an easy to read style, some revelations but not much. The ending was a bit unexpected, why have a cliffhanger? This was not needed in my opinion. That aside, the book gave enough incentive to start the next one for no plotline has ended in this one.
did-not-finish
July 9, 2024***Dinsdag 9 juli 2024***
DNF @17%
I got really irritated by the world-building. It felt very shoddy to me. The characters were fine but not enough to keep on reading.
I feel somewhat unsure about my decision to DNF but I have so many other books to read that I can't justify reading something that can turn out to be a mediocre reading experience. Sometimes that is just what I need but not this time.
DNF @17%
I got really irritated by the world-building. It felt very shoddy to me. The characters were fine but not enough to keep on reading.
I feel somewhat unsure about my decision to DNF but I have so many other books to read that I can't justify reading something that can turn out to be a mediocre reading experience. Sometimes that is just what I need but not this time.
January 13, 2026
This is a quick paced book with interesting misfit magical people that are best friends. However, it feels like the overall premise of the book and series is the same as the TV show Friends. They even gather on a sofa in a magical coffee shop. The ending is a cliff hanger (I suppose ) but it left me flat. I don’t plan on reading the rest of the series.
June 11, 2023
Very enjoyable read, would recommend
A relatively light-hearted romp that explores finding your place in society, connecting with mates who will stand by you and accepting yourself, foibles and all.
A relatively light-hearted romp that explores finding your place in society, connecting with mates who will stand by you and accepting yourself, foibles and all.
dnf
January 24, 2025I listened to an hour of this and it couldn't be more generic and mediocre.
Maybe it gets a lot better later on but I doubt it and I don't have the patience to find out. In the over 2k books I've tried I never found one that started like this and went anywhere good.
Maybe it gets a lot better later on but I doubt it and I don't have the patience to find out. In the over 2k books I've tried I never found one that started like this and went anywhere good.
December 19, 2025
GOOD BOOK
This is a convoluted story. Too many characters thrown at t.he readers to make us focus on the main character. Overall I enjoyed Minerva struggling to find a place as a guardian. Can't wait to find what comes up next.
This is a convoluted story. Too many characters thrown at t.he readers to make us focus on the main character. Overall I enjoyed Minerva struggling to find a place as a guardian. Can't wait to find what comes up next.
January 7, 2026
Minerva and her gang help an old friend with her problem. It doesn't sound much but it is well written with some funny parts and some serious to make an interesting story. There's a pigeon in it as well.
January 14, 2026
Fluff for distraction
Interesting cast of characters! Loved them all, even Giggles the pigeon. Also enjoyed the many voices. I was less than enthusiastic about the ending. Obviously a setup for rest of series.
Interesting cast of characters! Loved them all, even Giggles the pigeon. Also enjoyed the many voices. I was less than enthusiastic about the ending. Obviously a setup for rest of series.
June 14, 2023
urban
This is a set up book to introduce a group of characters. Tons of political issues from each character race.
This is a set up book to introduce a group of characters. Tons of political issues from each character race.
June 30, 2023
Nice vampires, werewolves, and dragons. It was something to read but I'm not hooked.
October 27, 2025
Really good story..... But
Would be 5 stars if it wasn't a cliffhanger. I really don't like cliffhanger s at all. Won't be reading the next.
Would be 5 stars if it wasn't a cliffhanger. I really don't like cliffhanger s at all. Won't be reading the next.
July 10, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is the first of a series & must be read in order
– this is told from Minerva, Roxana, Xander, Clark, Bevin, Izaak’s points of view (though it mainly focuses on Minerva’s pov; at the end of this book, the author mentions that future books will change who the main focus/pov is from so each character gets a chance to be the ‘main’ pov)
– there are witches, wizards, werewolves, vampires, zombies (a form of sick vampire, I believe), dragon shifters, angel & demon-spawn (children born from an angel or demon & a human) in this urban fantasy world
– it is mentioned that demon-spawn can descend, which means if they commit any of the seven deadly sins, they gain a power & become more demon like; if they were to commit all of them, then they’d be a full-blown demon
– it is mentioned that a few characters are interested in/dating someone(s) of the same gender
– it is mentioned that a character does seances
– there is some suggestive remarks
Review:
I removed a star because I’m not that comfortable with the idea of the demon-spawn (& the descending aspect of their being), nor did I like that there were same gender interests or characters that did seances. I’m not sure if I will or won’t continue reading the series (or at least the next book) because of these things. If I do continue, it’d be because I’m still highly curious about the pigeon familiar (& its affinity for escaping/trouble) & what’s going to happen next for Roxanna with the bit of a cliffhanger we were left on in this book.
As I mentioned above, I really enjoyed watching the pigeon’s silliness & seeing Minerva slowly accept her. I loved getting to see how this urban fantasy world worked with its special supernatural drinks & hiding from normal humans. This friend group is not only entertaining, but it also was such a great dynamic with all of them. I loved how strongly they stood by each other, but also weren’t afraid to ponder hard questions and bring them up to whatever friend was nearby. I loved seeing them embrace Roxanna after they warmed up to her. And I loved that Roxanna really had no idea how a normal supernatural went about their days, it was funny to see them have to explain things to her!
Summary:
Minerva is a witch who just can’t keep her finicky magic under control, but longs to be one of the elite protectors of New York: a guardian. Just like her father. To make herself more desirable applicant for the group, she attempts to bond with a familiar that is awe inspiring. What she actually bonded to though was less than phenomenal: a pigeon. It’s the only thing that could have hurt her chances to be bonded to. And no matter what she does, Minerva can’t keep the dang pigeon from following her everywhere. Not to mention her school bestie has dropped in after leaving her unwanted marriage ceremony creating a city wide man-hunt for her. Can Minerva help her friend & prove herself to be a great applicant to the guardians at the same time?
(Here’s a quick look into the other points of view too:)
Roxanna knows that being a rare female dragon shifter has it’s perks, but she also didn’t realize how it could cage a girl in. Being as rare as she is, and with how much influence her father holds in their sphere, she was betrothed to the best fighter amongst them. And now that she’s finally met her soon to be husband, Roxanna isn’t too sure she wants to sit around like a porcelain doll that’s only good for furthering her species. She needs to take her fate into her own hands…
Xander is a half-breed werewolf that’s looked down upon by his species because of being half human. No one wants to accept him to their pack as a member because of it. But if he doesn’t find a pack soon, he might literally go crazy…
Clark is Minerva’s brother & a wizard. Unlike his sister, Clark’s magic actually works perfectly. However, he has the worst relationships. Maybe that’s because he keeps dating outside his species and thought his marriage would work despite his wife having been a human?
Bevin is a demon-spawn that want’s nothing to do with descending. Every day is a struggle to choose to do the right thing, especially since her nature is to want to do bad…
Isaak is a vampire & all vampires innately cause humans to fear them. But Isaak hopes to be a lead actor in a role that’s not the villain. Is it so much to ask for a chance of being different?
– this is the first of a series & must be read in order
– this is told from Minerva, Roxana, Xander, Clark, Bevin, Izaak’s points of view (though it mainly focuses on Minerva’s pov; at the end of this book, the author mentions that future books will change who the main focus/pov is from so each character gets a chance to be the ‘main’ pov)
– there are witches, wizards, werewolves, vampires, zombies (a form of sick vampire, I believe), dragon shifters, angel & demon-spawn (children born from an angel or demon & a human) in this urban fantasy world
– it is mentioned that demon-spawn can descend, which means if they commit any of the seven deadly sins, they gain a power & become more demon like; if they were to commit all of them, then they’d be a full-blown demon
– it is mentioned that a few characters are interested in/dating someone(s) of the same gender
– it is mentioned that a character does seances
– there is some suggestive remarks
Review:
I removed a star because I’m not that comfortable with the idea of the demon-spawn (& the descending aspect of their being), nor did I like that there were same gender interests or characters that did seances. I’m not sure if I will or won’t continue reading the series (or at least the next book) because of these things. If I do continue, it’d be because I’m still highly curious about the pigeon familiar (& its affinity for escaping/trouble) & what’s going to happen next for Roxanna with the bit of a cliffhanger we were left on in this book.
As I mentioned above, I really enjoyed watching the pigeon’s silliness & seeing Minerva slowly accept her. I loved getting to see how this urban fantasy world worked with its special supernatural drinks & hiding from normal humans. This friend group is not only entertaining, but it also was such a great dynamic with all of them. I loved how strongly they stood by each other, but also weren’t afraid to ponder hard questions and bring them up to whatever friend was nearby. I loved seeing them embrace Roxanna after they warmed up to her. And I loved that Roxanna really had no idea how a normal supernatural went about their days, it was funny to see them have to explain things to her!
Summary:
Minerva is a witch who just can’t keep her finicky magic under control, but longs to be one of the elite protectors of New York: a guardian. Just like her father. To make herself more desirable applicant for the group, she attempts to bond with a familiar that is awe inspiring. What she actually bonded to though was less than phenomenal: a pigeon. It’s the only thing that could have hurt her chances to be bonded to. And no matter what she does, Minerva can’t keep the dang pigeon from following her everywhere. Not to mention her school bestie has dropped in after leaving her unwanted marriage ceremony creating a city wide man-hunt for her. Can Minerva help her friend & prove herself to be a great applicant to the guardians at the same time?
(Here’s a quick look into the other points of view too:)
Roxanna knows that being a rare female dragon shifter has it’s perks, but she also didn’t realize how it could cage a girl in. Being as rare as she is, and with how much influence her father holds in their sphere, she was betrothed to the best fighter amongst them. And now that she’s finally met her soon to be husband, Roxanna isn’t too sure she wants to sit around like a porcelain doll that’s only good for furthering her species. She needs to take her fate into her own hands…
Xander is a half-breed werewolf that’s looked down upon by his species because of being half human. No one wants to accept him to their pack as a member because of it. But if he doesn’t find a pack soon, he might literally go crazy…
Clark is Minerva’s brother & a wizard. Unlike his sister, Clark’s magic actually works perfectly. However, he has the worst relationships. Maybe that’s because he keeps dating outside his species and thought his marriage would work despite his wife having been a human?
Bevin is a demon-spawn that want’s nothing to do with descending. Every day is a struggle to choose to do the right thing, especially since her nature is to want to do bad…
Isaak is a vampire & all vampires innately cause humans to fear them. But Isaak hopes to be a lead actor in a role that’s not the villain. Is it so much to ask for a chance of being different?
October 26, 2022
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Forget Murphy—it should be called Minerva's Law.
Paranormal affairs officer Minerva Lucent has always wanted to stand out by making a difference in the supernatural world. Unfortunately, she's only managed to stick out—like a sore thumb. Her stun spells often misfire and freeze people by mistake. Her magical restraints have been known to pull objects to them like magnets. And last week, her truth spell caused a perp to start singing in verse.
But when a coveted guardian position opens up, Minerva's determined to finally show everyone that she's the witch for the job. She makes a plan to redeem her reputation, and she's about to set it in motion, when her old finishing school pal, Roxana Goldenscales, shows up on her doorstep in dire need of assistance.
Can Minerva enact her plan and help Roxana (knock on wand!)? Or will she have to choose between becoming a guardian and being a good friend to her old mate?
MY TAKE
If you're a fan of the old TV show Friends and you enjoy paranormal stories, this is the story for you. There's a large cast of friends, all of whom get their own POV scenes or chapters. Which can make the story feel choppy as it flits from one to the other. It's harder to do the jumping in a shorter story (unlike the Wheel of Time books since those chapters were really long to go along with the very long books). But each change still advances the overall storyline. Once you get used to the jumpiness and are into each of the characters, it's less jarring.
Minerva's story is (kind of) resolved, but the last bit sets up the next book with an issue for Roxana. There's obviously a grander goal for the series even if these misfit friends haven't realized they're part of something yet.
I listened to the audiobook which was narrated by several people, each of the characters getting their own unique voice.
4 1/2 stars
Forget Murphy—it should be called Minerva's Law.
Paranormal affairs officer Minerva Lucent has always wanted to stand out by making a difference in the supernatural world. Unfortunately, she's only managed to stick out—like a sore thumb. Her stun spells often misfire and freeze people by mistake. Her magical restraints have been known to pull objects to them like magnets. And last week, her truth spell caused a perp to start singing in verse.
But when a coveted guardian position opens up, Minerva's determined to finally show everyone that she's the witch for the job. She makes a plan to redeem her reputation, and she's about to set it in motion, when her old finishing school pal, Roxana Goldenscales, shows up on her doorstep in dire need of assistance.
Can Minerva enact her plan and help Roxana (knock on wand!)? Or will she have to choose between becoming a guardian and being a good friend to her old mate?
MY TAKE
If you're a fan of the old TV show Friends and you enjoy paranormal stories, this is the story for you. There's a large cast of friends, all of whom get their own POV scenes or chapters. Which can make the story feel choppy as it flits from one to the other. It's harder to do the jumping in a shorter story (unlike the Wheel of Time books since those chapters were really long to go along with the very long books). But each change still advances the overall storyline. Once you get used to the jumpiness and are into each of the characters, it's less jarring.
Minerva's story is (kind of) resolved, but the last bit sets up the next book with an issue for Roxana. There's obviously a grander goal for the series even if these misfit friends haven't realized they're part of something yet.
I listened to the audiobook which was narrated by several people, each of the characters getting their own unique voice.
4 1/2 stars
June 24, 2023
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I completely change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring down a lot. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
I didn't click with any of the characters. I never really got into Friends, so that's probably why I did not enjoy this book. I know enough of the show to pick up from the start that its a supernatural sort of take on the idea of Friends.
I did think that the paranormal version of Friends was well done though, hence my 2* rating even though the book is not to my taste.
Warning, it ends on a cliffhanger. So that irritated me since I forced myself to read the thing!
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No - not of this series. -- Maybe for other work by the author.
Would you recommend?: If you enjoyed watching Friends, then yes -- otherwise no.
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
I didn't click with any of the characters. I never really got into Friends, so that's probably why I did not enjoy this book. I know enough of the show to pick up from the start that its a supernatural sort of take on the idea of Friends.
I did think that the paranormal version of Friends was well done though, hence my 2* rating even though the book is not to my taste.
Warning, it ends on a cliffhanger. So that irritated me since I forced myself to read the thing!
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No - not of this series. -- Maybe for other work by the author.
Would you recommend?: If you enjoyed watching Friends, then yes -- otherwise no.
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
July 10, 2024
If the TV show “Friends” was made up of witches, werewolves, dragons, and demon-spawn, you would have this book. And what a delight!
The book more or less follows Minerva, a witch working for the supernatural police force. Her spells are always misfiring, but that doesn’t stop her from trying to get a promotion to be a Guardian (an elite magical squad that tracks down demon-spawn that have Descended). In an effort to impress the other Guardians she tries to familiar-bond a badass flame lizard, but the spell goes disastrously wrong and she ends up with a pigeon familiar instead. And Giggles the pigeon is just too cute and funny 😂
Along the way you also get to know Minerva’s friends. There’s Bevin, a demon-spawn who is determined to be good; Xander, a half-werewolf rejected by his pack; Clark, Minerva’s brother; Izaak, a vampire who just wants to be an actor; and Roxanna, a dracona princess on the run from her fiancé. I adored the found family vibe. And there’s clearly a larger plot developing which could get very intense, but for the time being it’s almost cozy. I could almost imagine myself drinking gloffee with the characters and cracking jokes.
I can’t wait to see more of the world and dive deeper into the other characters stories. If you love books with found families and strong friendships, you’ll love this one. No romance (at least not so far), although we’ll see if anything shapes up in later books 😃 it’s a very funny, cute little urban fantasy. Highly recommend.
The book more or less follows Minerva, a witch working for the supernatural police force. Her spells are always misfiring, but that doesn’t stop her from trying to get a promotion to be a Guardian (an elite magical squad that tracks down demon-spawn that have Descended). In an effort to impress the other Guardians she tries to familiar-bond a badass flame lizard, but the spell goes disastrously wrong and she ends up with a pigeon familiar instead. And Giggles the pigeon is just too cute and funny 😂
Along the way you also get to know Minerva’s friends. There’s Bevin, a demon-spawn who is determined to be good; Xander, a half-werewolf rejected by his pack; Clark, Minerva’s brother; Izaak, a vampire who just wants to be an actor; and Roxanna, a dracona princess on the run from her fiancé. I adored the found family vibe. And there’s clearly a larger plot developing which could get very intense, but for the time being it’s almost cozy. I could almost imagine myself drinking gloffee with the characters and cracking jokes.
I can’t wait to see more of the world and dive deeper into the other characters stories. If you love books with found families and strong friendships, you’ll love this one. No romance (at least not so far), although we’ll see if anything shapes up in later books 😃 it’s a very funny, cute little urban fantasy. Highly recommend.
August 5, 2022
Woah, talk about a cliffhanger! This book certainly sets you up with a rich and dynamic world, but I am totally left wanting more!
While the book is called "Minerva" it really revolves around an amazing group of misfits. We hop through multiple POVs to see things sometimes overlapping from multiple angles, sometimes filling in the blanks, sometimes learning about new characters. All in all, this world is insane. Minerva is what amounts to a supernatural cop, aiming for supernatural special ops. Unfortunately for her, she's got some issues doing magic. In this world all the supernaturals blend with humans, but are still "in the closet." They police themselves (hence the "cops") but it only works so well.
Minerva's big challenge comes in the form of a friend she lost touch with - Roxana. She's a dragon shifter who can't shift, but is set to marry a man she can't stand. She runs away and somehow runs straight into Minerva's life, complete with friends. It's really those friends that shine throughout this book. We have vampires, demons, witches, werewolves, and all manner in between. They work together for the good of each other, sometimes to a fault. It was really great to watch them all grow and adapt, but we are certainly left wanting at the end. I can't wait to see what happens next for this crew!
While the book is called "Minerva" it really revolves around an amazing group of misfits. We hop through multiple POVs to see things sometimes overlapping from multiple angles, sometimes filling in the blanks, sometimes learning about new characters. All in all, this world is insane. Minerva is what amounts to a supernatural cop, aiming for supernatural special ops. Unfortunately for her, she's got some issues doing magic. In this world all the supernaturals blend with humans, but are still "in the closet." They police themselves (hence the "cops") but it only works so well.
Minerva's big challenge comes in the form of a friend she lost touch with - Roxana. She's a dragon shifter who can't shift, but is set to marry a man she can't stand. She runs away and somehow runs straight into Minerva's life, complete with friends. It's really those friends that shine throughout this book. We have vampires, demons, witches, werewolves, and all manner in between. They work together for the good of each other, sometimes to a fault. It was really great to watch them all grow and adapt, but we are certainly left wanting at the end. I can't wait to see what happens next for this crew!
June 21, 2022
A group of friends from all different facets of life living together. Does that sound familiar? Yes, it was an epic TV Show called ‘Friends’ but also a group of smart nerdy friends such as in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. What does this have to do with Mates? Well, Bridget E Baker has stepped out of her normal comfort zone and tried her hand on something new. And guess what she succeeded with high remarks.
Mates as the British word for Friends brings to us a group of magical misfits, a witch that cannot produce proper spells, a brother that does not quite understand why, a female dragon that cannot shift, a wolf without a pack, a vampire that hates killing people, and a half demon that only wants to do good.
In the first installment of the series, we are introduced to all of the characters and their qwirks as well as the amazing friendship that holds these mates together. But in true Bridget fashion we have a female lead and a lot of twists and turns. Just like you and me each of these characters has a dream and hopes but whose dreams do you put first when considering a group of friends or is it everyone for themselves. I promise you this book will not disappoints so take the plunge and find out which one of those mates you identify with the most.
Mates as the British word for Friends brings to us a group of magical misfits, a witch that cannot produce proper spells, a brother that does not quite understand why, a female dragon that cannot shift, a wolf without a pack, a vampire that hates killing people, and a half demon that only wants to do good.
In the first installment of the series, we are introduced to all of the characters and their qwirks as well as the amazing friendship that holds these mates together. But in true Bridget fashion we have a female lead and a lot of twists and turns. Just like you and me each of these characters has a dream and hopes but whose dreams do you put first when considering a group of friends or is it everyone for themselves. I promise you this book will not disappoints so take the plunge and find out which one of those mates you identify with the most.
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