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A Familiar Duology #1
A Familiar Magic
Kaya Thornton killed her best friend. On the run since the tender age of thirteen, she left the safety of her Community’s magicked walls and tried to disappear in the human world. Four years later, she’s found and dragged back kicking and screaming by Auden, her best friend’s older brother.
The second Prince of the Wardwell line is antagonistic and unforgiving, but surprisingly gentle as he forces her home to face the judgement of his father and the Council. She expected hatred and bitter punishment, not private training with a hot and cold Prince and…demonology courses?
Things are not as she left them. Her people are dying and the demon numbers are only growing. Once Witches and their Familiars are wiped out, who will stand between the Demon King and his bottomless appetite? Kaya has no intention of waiting to find out. And this time, she isn’t running.
The second Prince of the Wardwell line is antagonistic and unforgiving, but surprisingly gentle as he forces her home to face the judgement of his father and the Council. She expected hatred and bitter punishment, not private training with a hot and cold Prince and…demonology courses?
Things are not as she left them. Her people are dying and the demon numbers are only growing. Once Witches and their Familiars are wiped out, who will stand between the Demon King and his bottomless appetite? Kaya has no intention of waiting to find out. And this time, she isn’t running.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2022
155 people are currently reading
2977 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
February 3, 2022
*ARC Copy* Loved it. Seriously. GREAT read. Kaya is the main character- whose a shifter. She is part of a community where the shifters pair with a witch as their familiar so they can work together to stop/fight/kill demons going after humans. She goes through growth and learning to like different parts of herself that she hated before- she deals with many struggles like any great badass lead female does, loss of a childhood best friend, being a homeless teenager, learning to fend for herself, making new friends, and realizing that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover when it comes to people around you. Writing this is proving difficult since I am trying not to give spoilers away! My ONLY complaint is it ends on a cliffhanger. I have finished this at 4am and I have to be up at 7am for work. I seriously couldn’t put it down once I picked it up- probably shouldn’t have started it at 10pm on a work night 🤷♀️ I have no regrets though! Sleep is for the weak or someone who doesn’t have a great book in front of them 😂 I need the next book ASAP! I HAVE to know how more of this story goes!!
January 11, 2022
Let me start with saying I would most definitely recommend this to everyone! Especially to the ‘who did this to you’ trope lovers. This was a very well written story with a great plot and loveable characters.
When I read the premise for this book, I was immediately enthusiastic. I love me a good runaway story, not that there was all that much of it, because Auden already found her in the first chapter, but I didn’t mind because of the good plot. This book did not disappoint!
This was the first story I’ve read with witches and familiars, so I didn’t know what to expect, but I really liked this world!
I don’t even know how to describe Kaya and Auden’s relationship. A friends to kind of enemies to kind of friends again to lovers? It felt like slow burn and insta-love at the same time? It’s very confusing lol, but I love their chemistry. There was some tension as well and some hotter chapters 😉 I’m really rooting for these guys.
Kaya is a very likeable main character and handled things just as I would handle them, so I could really relate to her. Auden is an incredibly sweet guy, if not a little too jealous (cutie) and overprotective at times, but it shows that he cares, while Kaya feels like nobody cares about her, and that makes him even more amazing. My heart seriously melted because of him.
Honestly, in the beginning I didn’t trust anyone and kind of hoped Kaya would just climb over the wall again lol. Luckily, she didn’t listen to me, because the book got better and better from there, especially Kaya and Auden's relationship.
The feminist in me was screaming at the inequality at some times, but the badass Kaya handled them perfectly and showed them their place. She is such a powerful character, I can’t wait to see the rest of her growth.
I would have loved a bit more backstory as to what she has been doing the past four years in the dojo, but I suppose it doesn’t matter to the story and that’s why the author left it out. At the same time, I enjoyed that it wasn’t a slow start, like in many other books. You are immediately thrown into the story and get to know Kaya and Auden.
I appreciated the little bits of humor in the book, which came mostly from the incredible Bast, it was a nice change of pace from the constant tension.
Kaya, Bast and Auden didn’t have the greatest pasts, but they don’t let it define them. They are such powerful characters and I am excited to learn more about all of them.
In conclusion: You should definitely pick this book up!
This was the best book I’ve read this year! And the only one yet lol, but I’m pretty sure it will stay in the top. It’s definitely in the top 10 books I’ve read the last few years!
I must admit though, that cliffhanger BROKE me, I NEED to know what happens next! I am so invested in this story and I can’t wait for the sequel!
When I read the premise for this book, I was immediately enthusiastic. I love me a good runaway story, not that there was all that much of it, because Auden already found her in the first chapter, but I didn’t mind because of the good plot. This book did not disappoint!
This was the first story I’ve read with witches and familiars, so I didn’t know what to expect, but I really liked this world!
I don’t even know how to describe Kaya and Auden’s relationship. A friends to kind of enemies to kind of friends again to lovers? It felt like slow burn and insta-love at the same time? It’s very confusing lol, but I love their chemistry. There was some tension as well and some hotter chapters 😉 I’m really rooting for these guys.
Kaya is a very likeable main character and handled things just as I would handle them, so I could really relate to her. Auden is an incredibly sweet guy, if not a little too jealous (cutie) and overprotective at times, but it shows that he cares, while Kaya feels like nobody cares about her, and that makes him even more amazing. My heart seriously melted because of him.
“”is anything broken?” He asked, frantically scanning my body for new injuries.”
Honestly, in the beginning I didn’t trust anyone and kind of hoped Kaya would just climb over the wall again lol. Luckily, she didn’t listen to me, because the book got better and better from there, especially Kaya and Auden's relationship.
The feminist in me was screaming at the inequality at some times, but the badass Kaya handled them perfectly and showed them their place. She is such a powerful character, I can’t wait to see the rest of her growth.
I would have loved a bit more backstory as to what she has been doing the past four years in the dojo, but I suppose it doesn’t matter to the story and that’s why the author left it out. At the same time, I enjoyed that it wasn’t a slow start, like in many other books. You are immediately thrown into the story and get to know Kaya and Auden.
I appreciated the little bits of humor in the book, which came mostly from the incredible Bast, it was a nice change of pace from the constant tension.
“It doesn’t hurt that he’s hotter than Satan’s bathwater”
“I was panting like a birth coach in a Lamaze class”
Kaya, Bast and Auden didn’t have the greatest pasts, but they don’t let it define them. They are such powerful characters and I am excited to learn more about all of them.
In conclusion: You should definitely pick this book up!
This was the best book I’ve read this year! And the only one yet lol, but I’m pretty sure it will stay in the top. It’s definitely in the top 10 books I’ve read the last few years!
I must admit though, that cliffhanger BROKE me, I NEED to know what happens next! I am so invested in this story and I can’t wait for the sequel!
April 30, 2022
This has potential to be a really good series. I went in thinking we were going to have build up to the relationship and that Auden was going to be a little more angry with her over everything with Asher. Honestly from the description and the tik tok videos I kind of thought something different would have happened in the book completely, so I feel like my opinion of the book had to be completely altered bc I was expecting one thing and got another.
I enjoyed the book I read it quickly, I didn’t devour it but wanted to keep reading. The ending was honestly my favorite part and I don’t know if I was the only one who felt more excitement at her scenes with Asiel but I wanted more. So I will keep reading if only to find out how that relationship works out.
I enjoyed the book I read it quickly, I didn’t devour it but wanted to keep reading. The ending was honestly my favorite part and I don’t know if I was the only one who felt more excitement at her scenes with Asiel but I wanted more. So I will keep reading if only to find out how that relationship works out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2022
Genuinely don’t know how to feel about this. It’s not bad, though! I’m so mad at Auden, though, but that’s just me ig. I hope book 2’s better, because I’m definitely reading it 🤷🏻♀️
May 14, 2023
I LOVE. I wasn't expecting to like it as much as I did but it exceeded my expectations. I discovered it from the authors Tik Tok and I think Tik Tok book recs have traumatized me bc I go into any with the lowest expectations at this point LMAO. But the plot was so entertaining and made it hard to put the book down. A major problem I normally have is the characters being annoying/the main character being idiotic but that wasn't the case with this one. I like all the characters, especially Auden (tehe) and Bast. I cant wait for book two sdfjskdafjdk/
E.M.? You did that, thank u for ur service to the book community <3
E.M.? You did that, thank u for ur service to the book community <3
January 24, 2024
My song for A Familiar Magic: Product of My Own Design by Artio
“Why do your eyes remain dull even after you’ve rested? Why do they only burn when you’re fighting(…)?”
A Familiar Magic is a NA novel and is rated and reviewed as such.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest rating.
This book was for the angry, unhealed inner teenager in me.
Let me elaborate.
Our FMC spent most of her teenage years in solitude and on the run. She is stubborn and brazen, impulsive and secretive, and maybe even immature – and I am surprised to say I liked it. Why? Because it was well written and made sense!
“I cried for the little girl forced from her home with nowhere else to go.”
Kaya, in my opinion, is a thought through, relatable character. She is all the teenage girls that are not heard, that feel abandoned and not worthy of love. All the young adults that still cary these wounds.
Reading about her does not feel like reading about an adult, especially not in contrast to the MMC Auden, and that, in my opinion, is exactly how it should feel! Because while everyone learned, evolved, grew up, she was busy surviving.
“I’d never been held like this before. Like it mattered.”
It took me off-guard that Kaya really is that hurt teenager I still have tugged away inside myself, the one that still has a lot of healing to do but can’t. Because she still feels like she has to stand up against the whole world and survive. On her own.
“Do you think I’m selfish?”
Of course, as someone who spent vital teenager years on the run only to return as an outcast and with a huge amount of guilt, she doesn't think she deserves love. Of course she can’t accept it. Not even if it holds out a hand to her every single day. Not even when it's Auden.
Beautiful, sophisticated, gentle, cheeky, making-me-giggle-cause-he’s-so-cute Auden.
And while I enjoyed that arc, too, I appreciated it even more for not overpowering Kaya’s story. For not nullifying and being the magical solution to her wounds and scars and all the pain that she still has to go through.
“I want all your kisses and all your other firsts. I want to help you see yourself as I see you.”
E.M. Rinaldi did an amazing job of implementing not one but two tropes that I usually avoid at all costs and not only made them make sense - I, to my absolute surprise, enjoyed them.
I enjoyed watching Kaya fuck up, say things she should not say and honestly, let’s face it, be a snarky bitch. I enjoyed watching her grow, slowly and almost imperceptible, and evolve. And I will continue to do so in the second book.
Talking about that: I am sure that cliffhanger is actually illegal and I cannot wait to see how it all plays out for our incredibly strong FMC. (Oh and Bast? Protect him at all costs)
“My future was my own and I refused to allow it to be taken from me.”
The writing style was colloquial and felt attuned to the NA nature of the book – which was so much more fitting than a forcefully sophisticated high fantasy tone would have been – It worked, it made sense, I liked it!
(Although admittedly it took me a while to get accustomed but only because I am not used to it :D )
“What do you say? Want to run away again for old time’s sake?”
It’s a very fast-paced book and while I didn’t mind that, I personally found myself wishing for more detailed elaborations at some points, if only for a chance to slow down some situations and savour them fully.
This has nothing to do with writing quality and is just an individual preference and my personal reason for 4 stars.
And E.M. Rinaldi, I cannot end this review without saying: Thank you so much for “Did I fart?” because this must have been the realest question anyone has ever asked in a book and boy did I relate!
“Why do your eyes remain dull even after you’ve rested? Why do they only burn when you’re fighting(…)?”
A Familiar Magic is a NA novel and is rated and reviewed as such.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest rating.
This book was for the angry, unhealed inner teenager in me.
Let me elaborate.
Our FMC spent most of her teenage years in solitude and on the run. She is stubborn and brazen, impulsive and secretive, and maybe even immature – and I am surprised to say I liked it. Why? Because it was well written and made sense!
“I cried for the little girl forced from her home with nowhere else to go.”
Kaya, in my opinion, is a thought through, relatable character. She is all the teenage girls that are not heard, that feel abandoned and not worthy of love. All the young adults that still cary these wounds.
Reading about her does not feel like reading about an adult, especially not in contrast to the MMC Auden, and that, in my opinion, is exactly how it should feel! Because while everyone learned, evolved, grew up, she was busy surviving.
“I’d never been held like this before. Like it mattered.”
It took me off-guard that Kaya really is that hurt teenager I still have tugged away inside myself, the one that still has a lot of healing to do but can’t. Because she still feels like she has to stand up against the whole world and survive. On her own.
“Do you think I’m selfish?”
Of course, as someone who spent vital teenager years on the run only to return as an outcast and with a huge amount of guilt, she doesn't think she deserves love. Of course she can’t accept it. Not even if it holds out a hand to her every single day. Not even when it's Auden.
Beautiful, sophisticated, gentle, cheeky, making-me-giggle-cause-he’s-so-cute Auden.
And while I enjoyed that arc, too, I appreciated it even more for not overpowering Kaya’s story. For not nullifying and being the magical solution to her wounds and scars and all the pain that she still has to go through.
“I want all your kisses and all your other firsts. I want to help you see yourself as I see you.”
E.M. Rinaldi did an amazing job of implementing not one but two tropes that I usually avoid at all costs and not only made them make sense - I, to my absolute surprise, enjoyed them.
I enjoyed watching Kaya fuck up, say things she should not say and honestly, let’s face it, be a snarky bitch. I enjoyed watching her grow, slowly and almost imperceptible, and evolve. And I will continue to do so in the second book.
Talking about that: I am sure that cliffhanger is actually illegal and I cannot wait to see how it all plays out for our incredibly strong FMC. (Oh and Bast? Protect him at all costs)
“My future was my own and I refused to allow it to be taken from me.”
The writing style was colloquial and felt attuned to the NA nature of the book – which was so much more fitting than a forcefully sophisticated high fantasy tone would have been – It worked, it made sense, I liked it!
(Although admittedly it took me a while to get accustomed but only because I am not used to it :D )
“What do you say? Want to run away again for old time’s sake?”
It’s a very fast-paced book and while I didn’t mind that, I personally found myself wishing for more detailed elaborations at some points, if only for a chance to slow down some situations and savour them fully.
This has nothing to do with writing quality and is just an individual preference and my personal reason for 4 stars.
And E.M. Rinaldi, I cannot end this review without saying: Thank you so much for “Did I fart?” because this must have been the realest question anyone has ever asked in a book and boy did I relate!
February 17, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶/5
TW - death of a friend (recounted), death of a parent (mother, mentioned), torture (on page), violence
Tropes - Prince MMC, fantasy / paranormal, romance, who did this to you
I liked this book, as you can probably tell by the rating but, I went in expecting something completely different to what we got.
From the blurb of this book, we know that Kaya's (FMC) best friend (Asher) died and that she believes to be the one at fault for it. She goes on the run at the age of 13 and is found again at the age of 17 by one of the princes, Auden (MMC) - her Asher's older brother. Upon her return, there aren't really any consequences for her, and given the way she has been acting about this death, you'd think something... more would have happened and I was thrown by this until the plot started to unfold and truths about some particular royals came to light.
I love Bast! He's an outcast in society and Kaya is quick to befriend him. I love their friendship and the Kaya being able to feel like she has someone other than Auden at her back when it comes to both Bast and his mother, Adira.
I'm pretty sure I saw this book rec'ed on TikTok ages ago which would mean I added it to my tbr for the smut but this read like YA to me and if you know me, that is not my thing. I imagine it picks up in the 2nd book but if you came here for smut, then it isn't here.
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek
TW - death of a friend (recounted), death of a parent (mother, mentioned), torture (on page), violence
Tropes - Prince MMC, fantasy / paranormal, romance, who did this to you
I liked this book, as you can probably tell by the rating but, I went in expecting something completely different to what we got.
From the blurb of this book, we know that Kaya's (FMC) best friend (Asher) died and that she believes to be the one at fault for it. She goes on the run at the age of 13 and is found again at the age of 17 by one of the princes, Auden (MMC) - her Asher's older brother. Upon her return, there aren't really any consequences for her, and given the way she has been acting about this death, you'd think something... more would have happened and I was thrown by this until the plot started to unfold and truths about some particular royals came to light.
I love Bast! He's an outcast in society and Kaya is quick to befriend him. I love their friendship and the Kaya being able to feel like she has someone other than Auden at her back when it comes to both Bast and his mother, Adira.
I'm pretty sure I saw this book rec'ed on TikTok ages ago which would mean I added it to my tbr for the smut but this read like YA to me and if you know me, that is not my thing. I imagine it picks up in the 2nd book but if you came here for smut, then it isn't here.
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek
January 22, 2024
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
Fun read. Not my normal thing, but it was cute. The love is sweet and simple. World building is really promising.
Three stars because elements of the formatting made this book difficult (to the point of being annoying) to read. And because CLIFFHANGER. Good sweet gods, I was not prepared for that ending.
Would recommend this to others who like coming of age series featuring young FMCs. If you liked Kate Daniels, but wanted something a little more emotional and younger, this might suit.
Fun read. Not my normal thing, but it was cute. The love is sweet and simple. World building is really promising.
Three stars because elements of the formatting made this book difficult (to the point of being annoying) to read. And because CLIFFHANGER. Good sweet gods, I was not prepared for that ending.
Would recommend this to others who like coming of age series featuring young FMCs. If you liked Kate Daniels, but wanted something a little more emotional and younger, this might suit.
April 3, 2022
I’ve been waiting for this books for MONTHS ever since Em started posting about it on TikTok and she didn’t disappoint! I loved the intrigue and the strong female MC and the slow burn romance ughhh it was also so good and then THE ENDING 😤😤😤 she better release book 2 asap
April 13, 2022
5 billion stars! You know it when reading a book becomes more interesting then work, eating or sleeping.
This book is everything! I never wanted it to end!
Kaya is so cool, I loved everything about her. To my surprise, she never irritated me once. Auden is perfect book-boyfriend! What a spicy dynamic, steaming hot romance! The story was good.
Trust me, you need to read this book now! Highly recommended to every YA fan! I need second book right now.
This book is everything! I never wanted it to end!
Kaya is so cool, I loved everything about her. To my surprise, she never irritated me once. Auden is perfect book-boyfriend! What a spicy dynamic, steaming hot romance! The story was good.
Trust me, you need to read this book now! Highly recommended to every YA fan! I need second book right now.
January 9, 2022
I loved it. This was my first story I’ve read with a familiar and witches. I felt like it was perfect as an introduction. I love Kaya and I am happy we find out what she shifts to in this book rather then waiting. I definitely need a story for Bast! There were twists and turns I didn’t expect and I really enjoyed the the world. The cliffhanger at the end, ugh I’ll just say I can’t wait for book 2!
March 7, 2022
A Familiar Magic is an action packed paranormal romance. We meet Kaya when she is trying to blend in within the human world. Soon after we meet Auden, a witch who has worked in the field and has been looking for Kaya. Auden brings Kaya back to their community where Kaya quickly discovers not everything is as it seems. While Kaya struggles and fights back she makes friends with another outcast named Bast. Kaya and Bast become fast friends and try to help each other as much as possible. We don’t see much of Auden passed when he’s trying to protect Kaya, but the attraction and fierce protectiveness is there.
This book was amazing and had me turning pages left and right. I look forward to the next book and can’t wait to see Kaya and Auden’s next installment. . I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was amazing and had me turning pages left and right. I look forward to the next book and can’t wait to see Kaya and Auden’s next installment. . I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2022
Another 5 Star read and brilliant start to a new series from E.M. Rinaldi! I love the characters and the unique story. I've never read a book that featured a witch's familiar as both a shifter and human.
The MC Kaya is strong, beautiful, and a powerful familiar. Her attraction to Prince Auden is palpable. I thoroughly enjoyed their steamy scenes. But Kaya is much more than just a love interest. Her troubled past and broken soul make her a relatable character. Her strength is amazing.
I'm excited for this new series and to see where Rinaldi let's these characters take her.
The MC Kaya is strong, beautiful, and a powerful familiar. Her attraction to Prince Auden is palpable. I thoroughly enjoyed their steamy scenes. But Kaya is much more than just a love interest. Her troubled past and broken soul make her a relatable character. Her strength is amazing.
I'm excited for this new series and to see where Rinaldi let's these characters take her.
April 4, 2022
I was randomly scrolling through TikToc and I saw a TikToc by the author with two to three lines from the book. The lines intrigued me, so I decided to give the book a shot. And I loved it! The book had great character development, the characters were very relatable, and the story was very interesting. Also, I thought the subject matter was unique. I don't think I've ever read a book about familiars/shape shifters and witches. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys YA/NA Fantasy books. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading book 2 and anything by this author.
March 30, 2022
*ARC copy
I freaking loved this book! The action and world building started from page 1. E. M. Rinaldi has done it to me again. I devoured this book and now need book 2 immediately. This story kept me on the edge of my seat for so many reasons. The action, the intrigue, the angst and the twist!! (Also the spice!) If you’re an urban fantasy reader then you need this book.
Read it. You’ll thank me. ;)
I freaking loved this book! The action and world building started from page 1. E. M. Rinaldi has done it to me again. I devoured this book and now need book 2 immediately. This story kept me on the edge of my seat for so many reasons. The action, the intrigue, the angst and the twist!! (Also the spice!) If you’re an urban fantasy reader then you need this book.
Read it. You’ll thank me. ;)
January 28, 2022
*SPOILERS*
MAJOR SPOILERS! Such a great read!!! The two main genres I read are fantasy and romance and this combines them both! I know it is a good romance when my heart pangs for the main couple… and boy did it pang. Every time Kaya was with Auden I wanted her to tell him the truth about EVERYTHING but I completely get her mistrust (if you can even call it that, because he really is just aloof) in him. She’s completely torn between defending and protecting her people and her love for Auden. The tension was great between the two—though I wish there were more moments of them training—that would have really built up to the moment of them finally getting together. The other thing I loved about this book was Bast and Kaya’s relationship. He didn’t replace Asher, but it was a good transition for Kaya, and with them both being “outsiders” it worked. Bast’s one-liners were great! I hate that it was a cliffhanger, but I completely understand the need to keep readers wanting more.. My one wish though was that we knew what Kaya was! She has powers and I want to know how that happened and if she’ll ever be able to control them. Also, I hate how things were left between Auden and Kaya, but he’s just so blind! And I wish he would have had complete faith in Kaya and believed her when she said something was “off” in the kingdom and she was trying to fix it by working with the resistance. Anyway.. I know the next book (THERE BETTER BE ANOTHER BOOK) will have more Kaya/Auden moments and hopefully, they can team up and take down the king. Side note—I audibly gasped when Asiel said he was doing everything in his power to protect her! Completely thought he hated her! But please please—I beg of you as a reader… PLEASE don’t create a love triangle between Auden, Kaya, and Asiel.. my heart won’t be able to take it.. I already have completely fallen for Auden and if she starts to have feelings for Asiel.. nope nope not cool.. you can’t do that to me! Overall pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this book, especially it being my first ARC read! Brava E.M. Rinaldi! Brava!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
MAJOR SPOILERS! Such a great read!!! The two main genres I read are fantasy and romance and this combines them both! I know it is a good romance when my heart pangs for the main couple… and boy did it pang. Every time Kaya was with Auden I wanted her to tell him the truth about EVERYTHING but I completely get her mistrust (if you can even call it that, because he really is just aloof) in him. She’s completely torn between defending and protecting her people and her love for Auden. The tension was great between the two—though I wish there were more moments of them training—that would have really built up to the moment of them finally getting together. The other thing I loved about this book was Bast and Kaya’s relationship. He didn’t replace Asher, but it was a good transition for Kaya, and with them both being “outsiders” it worked. Bast’s one-liners were great! I hate that it was a cliffhanger, but I completely understand the need to keep readers wanting more.. My one wish though was that we knew what Kaya was! She has powers and I want to know how that happened and if she’ll ever be able to control them. Also, I hate how things were left between Auden and Kaya, but he’s just so blind! And I wish he would have had complete faith in Kaya and believed her when she said something was “off” in the kingdom and she was trying to fix it by working with the resistance. Anyway.. I know the next book (THERE BETTER BE ANOTHER BOOK) will have more Kaya/Auden moments and hopefully, they can team up and take down the king. Side note—I audibly gasped when Asiel said he was doing everything in his power to protect her! Completely thought he hated her! But please please—I beg of you as a reader… PLEASE don’t create a love triangle between Auden, Kaya, and Asiel.. my heart won’t be able to take it.. I already have completely fallen for Auden and if she starts to have feelings for Asiel.. nope nope not cool.. you can’t do that to me! Overall pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this book, especially it being my first ARC read! Brava E.M. Rinaldi! Brava!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2022
I liked this story but I didn’t love it. This one took me a while to read even though it was short. I liked the concept and characters (minus Kaya a little bit but we’ll get to that). I enjoyed the overarching plot but I felt there were some things that could use some improvement. I felt like we get told that she has so many memories of Asher but never get to see them other than the day he died and one other instance to display Asiel cruelty more than her relationship with Asher. Also, we don’t have any real flushing out of her childhood crush on Auden, just that he was around and older and helped them sometimes. I enjoyed the last 100 pages a lot more than the first 200. So I am planning to read the second one and I hope some things are improved. Now to kaya, we are told she is selfless, essentially but I don’t think she is. She strikes me as incredibly selfish at least with those close to her, she won’t talk to anyone, if anyone tries to relate to or get to her she lashes out violently. The only one she allows in fully Bast, I get the feeling is safe for her because she is comfortable with the fact that she could beat him. She is selfless with veritable strangers i guess and protects physically those she cares about but does bring down her mental walls for anyone. Blah blah trauma i get it but still. I don’t know she rubs me the wrong way but maybe that is more immaturity than anything, in which case I am hopeful that she grows up some before or during the next one.
March 7, 2022
*I am very grateful to have gotten to read an advanced copy of this book, and am happy to leave a review (contains spoilers).*
I will start by saying I really enjoyed the magic system and the combination of fantasy elements-- particularly the interpretation of familiars! That felt quite unique and was really interesting. The setting was also a great backdrop.
Before I get into aspects I didn't personally enjoy, I want to say that I truly think a lot of people will love this book, and I hope that is the case! The younger MCs and rapid plot just didn't land for me, and I sometimes felt like I couldn't understand why Kaya was interpreting a situation in a certain way when it felt very different to me. And to be honest, I also had a really tough time with Auden. I wanted to like him/their interactions, but it just felt like a lot of red flags for me!!
I ultimately had fun reading this, but it wasn't as up my alley as I had hoped. I think if it is up your alley, you will love it though!
I will start by saying I really enjoyed the magic system and the combination of fantasy elements-- particularly the interpretation of familiars! That felt quite unique and was really interesting. The setting was also a great backdrop.
Before I get into aspects I didn't personally enjoy, I want to say that I truly think a lot of people will love this book, and I hope that is the case! The younger MCs and rapid plot just didn't land for me, and I sometimes felt like I couldn't understand why Kaya was interpreting a situation in a certain way when it felt very different to me. And to be honest, I also had a really tough time with Auden. I wanted to like him/their interactions, but it just felt like a lot of red flags for me!!
I ultimately had fun reading this, but it wasn't as up my alley as I had hoped. I think if it is up your alley, you will love it though!
May 18, 2022
I was so hoping to like this book, since I liked Rinaldi’s last trilogy, but this one just didn’t do it for me. The story felt flat; more telling than showing. Before her relationship with Auden, we never knew she had a crush on him when she was younger. I would have loved to see how those emotions affected her when she saw him again, years later. Or about how she remembered Asher in everything she saw: I would have loved seeing some of the memories that she and Asher had shared instead of her just saying that she has so many memories of him while being back in the colony… I just didn’t see the depth in Kaya that Rinaldi was trying to give her…
And that is just what I thought about the characters and nothing to do with the grammar: there were periods where there should have been commas and commas where there should have been periods. And then there was the use of “further” where it should have been “farther.” I know this doesn’t bother a lot of people, but for a grammar nerd, it was excruciating.
And that is just what I thought about the characters and nothing to do with the grammar: there were periods where there should have been commas and commas where there should have been periods. And then there was the use of “further” where it should have been “farther.” I know this doesn’t bother a lot of people, but for a grammar nerd, it was excruciating.
April 9, 2022
Definitely recommend this book !
This book gave me vampire academy meets crave vibes and I absolutely loved every second of it ! From the first page to the last it had my attention, so much so that I couldn't put this book down .
It's about a girl who had to leave her (shifter/ witch community ) because she was on the run after her best friend died .
After being caught 4 years later by his brother she is taken back to their community to continue her training to become partnered with a witch to fight agents demons . Since she's been gone 4 years so has a lot to catch up on so the brother who captured her offers to help train her outside of classes .
The love interest is adorable and I definitely want more in the next book ! There was no spice in this book but it was definitely set up so that there could potentially be some in the next (which I really really hope there is ! )
This book was a pleasant surprise with how much I enjoyed it !
This book gave me vampire academy meets crave vibes and I absolutely loved every second of it ! From the first page to the last it had my attention, so much so that I couldn't put this book down .
It's about a girl who had to leave her (shifter/ witch community ) because she was on the run after her best friend died .
After being caught 4 years later by his brother she is taken back to their community to continue her training to become partnered with a witch to fight agents demons . Since she's been gone 4 years so has a lot to catch up on so the brother who captured her offers to help train her outside of classes .
The love interest is adorable and I definitely want more in the next book ! There was no spice in this book but it was definitely set up so that there could potentially be some in the next (which I really really hope there is ! )
This book was a pleasant surprise with how much I enjoyed it !
May 1, 2022
I thought this was a standalone. It’s not. And it ended in a shitty way, and I’m a little fucking peeved that I spent my day reading something that I thought was gonna finally give me closure to a story this week to only be dropped a bigger mystery and bullshit. I dock a star for cliffhangers, cause I think this whole let’s do cliffhangers in every single book now can suck dirty ballsack.
I liked the story enough. Wanted to see a fucking happy ending and got like the opposite of that. Bullshit. Really upset about where this went and how it ended with the hero. Gah. I am too old to be reading this book, which I figured about 30-40% through and not even kissing had happened yet, but I was intrigued about where this was going. Bite me. I wanted romance, smut, and a happy ending. I got none of those. If you’re gonna play games like this the author needs to record in the title or something Book 1 of whatever the fuck.
I liked the story enough. Wanted to see a fucking happy ending and got like the opposite of that. Bullshit. Really upset about where this went and how it ended with the hero. Gah. I am too old to be reading this book, which I figured about 30-40% through and not even kissing had happened yet, but I was intrigued about where this was going. Bite me. I wanted romance, smut, and a happy ending. I got none of those. If you’re gonna play games like this the author needs to record in the title or something Book 1 of whatever the fuck.
February 12, 2024
The cult like setting of supernatural societies has ALWAYS bothered me. Why would anyone create a world with magic then add patriarchal bullshit? And it's not just this book. Many of the ones I've read do this. It's always an enclosed society led by shitty old men deciding the fate of everyone else. And of course they're cut off from the world. Surely, with imagination, we can come up with better obstacles for the MCs. It's boring and predictable. And it makes me angry. I think I'll start dnfing books like this.
What's worse, Kaya is the type to internalise guilt without talking to anyone. And Auden is a stupid child who is following orders blindly. Bast was the only one with any common sense! I think it was a mistake to finish this book. Even the twist ending with the king did not make it any better. The dialogue is stilted and Kaya is very annoying. I'm pissed, and I can't believe I found another awful tiktok rec!
What's worse, Kaya is the type to internalise guilt without talking to anyone. And Auden is a stupid child who is following orders blindly. Bast was the only one with any common sense! I think it was a mistake to finish this book. Even the twist ending with the king did not make it any better. The dialogue is stilted and Kaya is very annoying. I'm pissed, and I can't believe I found another awful tiktok rec!
Read
May 2, 2024DNF @ 51% (but I still encourage you to try this one)
*sigh* Another audiobook where unfortunately even the narrators couldn’t hold me for the story 😔 I love Jacklyn Kelso and Jacob Morgan and was looking forward to this. It’s even like a graphic audio production. But with all that, the story was just still boring to me. The FMC (whose name I can now no longer remember) was fairly interesting, but the storyline just didn’t keep me interested. The chemistry between the FMC and the MMC seemed good but then the story started to get a little stagnant and lulled and I felt like I just didn’t want to devote anymore time to this.
Maybe others will find this more interesting, so while I didn’t continue with it, I encourage others to give it a shot. You might find that you like it! 🤙🏼💕
*sigh* Another audiobook where unfortunately even the narrators couldn’t hold me for the story 😔 I love Jacklyn Kelso and Jacob Morgan and was looking forward to this. It’s even like a graphic audio production. But with all that, the story was just still boring to me. The FMC (whose name I can now no longer remember) was fairly interesting, but the storyline just didn’t keep me interested. The chemistry between the FMC and the MMC seemed good but then the story started to get a little stagnant and lulled and I felt like I just didn’t want to devote anymore time to this.
Maybe others will find this more interesting, so while I didn’t continue with it, I encourage others to give it a shot. You might find that you like it! 🤙🏼💕
August 13, 2024
Great Young Adult Fantasy
I read this book because I previously read Bonded Nightmare by E.M. Rinaldi and really enjoyed it.
This book was full of action, from a runaway teen, to multiple fights with demons. And a small douse of romance mixed in.
The book is a duology, so it obviously ends on a cliff hanger with a lot of unanswered questions (which I don’t mind, since I went into the book knowing it was book 1 of 2) I’m excited to get started on the next book!
The only thing that would have made it better for me would be older characters. This is a personal preference since I am older I relate to characters my own age. With that being said this book wouldn’t have made much sense in the school setting with older characters.
I read this book because I previously read Bonded Nightmare by E.M. Rinaldi and really enjoyed it.
This book was full of action, from a runaway teen, to multiple fights with demons. And a small douse of romance mixed in.
The book is a duology, so it obviously ends on a cliff hanger with a lot of unanswered questions (which I don’t mind, since I went into the book knowing it was book 1 of 2) I’m excited to get started on the next book!
The only thing that would have made it better for me would be older characters. This is a personal preference since I am older I relate to characters my own age. With that being said this book wouldn’t have made much sense in the school setting with older characters.
March 4, 2022
What a new and fresh look into the shifter world.
Kaya is a shifter on the run after a tragic accident at 13 but is caught by his older brother and brought back into a community where witches and shifters are *supposed* to be a team.
I’ll preface with I don’t usually read books with younger characters because they read very young but I was hooked in this world where secrets and lies were costing so many lives at once. Loyalties and tested and the WHO HURT YOU IS STRONG WITH AUDEN.
A slow burn turns hot and Auden. Sweet but bossy Auden is the king of feels.
I loved the introduction to this world and so very much look forward to the fall out from the choices made in this book.
5/5!
Kaya is a shifter on the run after a tragic accident at 13 but is caught by his older brother and brought back into a community where witches and shifters are *supposed* to be a team.
I’ll preface with I don’t usually read books with younger characters because they read very young but I was hooked in this world where secrets and lies were costing so many lives at once. Loyalties and tested and the WHO HURT YOU IS STRONG WITH AUDEN.
A slow burn turns hot and Auden. Sweet but bossy Auden is the king of feels.
I loved the introduction to this world and so very much look forward to the fall out from the choices made in this book.
5/5!
March 25, 2022
I really enjoyed this book!! It wasn’t exactly what I was expecting when I went into it but that was a good thing! I loved our FMC Kaya. She’s strong and has had to learn to become so. She has such loyalty to those she cares about and I loved reading her character growth. Our MMC, Auden, was perfect. Everything you want in a book boyfriend. Seeing him with Kaya just made you want to swoon but also there were certain parts in the plot where I was like come on guy. I’m really interested to see how his storyline goes in the next book and how he’ll handle everything. Hang on for the ride everybody!. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2022
Wow. Just wow
This book had all of the things you want in an escapism book. It has magic and shifters and love and heartache. I felt for the main character, Kaya, from the first page. She is strong and doesn’t need anybody. She holds her own in the face of evil and wants what is best for those around her. Auden is the prince who just wants his normal life back. I can’t fault him for that. It was rough for both of them. This book does end in a cliffhanger! There is some smutt, like for a new romance reader to enjoy. I will be buying the next book to find out where the twists and turns leads to.
This book had all of the things you want in an escapism book. It has magic and shifters and love and heartache. I felt for the main character, Kaya, from the first page. She is strong and doesn’t need anybody. She holds her own in the face of evil and wants what is best for those around her. Auden is the prince who just wants his normal life back. I can’t fault him for that. It was rough for both of them. This book does end in a cliffhanger! There is some smutt, like for a new romance reader to enjoy. I will be buying the next book to find out where the twists and turns leads to.
April 20, 2022
This book took me by surprise,i picked it up without realising it was YA, which I usually don’t read because waaaaay too much angst and immaturity for my taste.
Here while the main characters are young adults, the story reads like a fantasy with adult themes, there is an element of mystery about what’s attacking the kingdom, what role each characters plays in the situation, and quite a lot of secrets to uncover :)
I had so much fun reading it I did not even get angry about the ending, it juste kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what comes next!
I will definitely read the next book
Here while the main characters are young adults, the story reads like a fantasy with adult themes, there is an element of mystery about what’s attacking the kingdom, what role each characters plays in the situation, and quite a lot of secrets to uncover :)
I had so much fun reading it I did not even get angry about the ending, it juste kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what comes next!
I will definitely read the next book
May 6, 2022
Okay so first I just want to say I thought this was a standalone and I’m dying for the next one because I wasn’t ready for that cliffhanger. I was loving this book and I guessed that Aisel wasn’t really as bad the more I read. I still don’t necessarily like him but he isn’t the worst. I can’t believe her dad though. I love Auden. I knew the king was going to be bad, but the fact that he may be an undercover demon???? I did not see that coming at all, I just thought he was crazy. The fact that Aisel suspected his dad and Auden has no idea is surprising, but he has been looking for Kaya. I can’t believe he didn’t even hear her out. I’m definitely ready for him to chase her again in book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2022
The story was unique and an amazing world! I really enjoyed the take on witches and familiars as it was also a ship shifter novel. This story follows kaya, a shape shifter familiar who has the guilt of killing her childhood friend when they were kids( totally not her fault but an accident ) with the guilt she runs away to the human world. She was found four years later and brought home. The only thing is the enemy. The demons are closing in. The author. We is the story in such a fashion. I was pulled in and had a hard time putting this book down. I would love to read more from this author and more of the story. 100% recommend.
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