What do you think?
Rate this book
Arcane Society #4
The Third Circle
New York Times bestselling author Amanda Quick presents an Arcane Society novel that reveals the passionate—and paranormal—secrets of proper Victorian London. Attempting to recover a relic stolen from her family years ago, gifted crystal worker Leona Hewitt secretly makes her way into Lord Delbridge’s private museum. But who she finds there is more entrancing than the crystal she seeks. Thaddeus Ware is a mesmerist with powerful psychic energy—that doesn’t seem to be affecting the woman before him. Instead, Leona seems to exert a rather hypnotic power over the hypnotist himself. After she gives him the slip, absconding with the crystal they recovered, Thaddeus fears for her safety. For he is on assignment for the secretive Arcane Society and knows that the crystal holds the potential for great destruction. It is the key to Lord Delbridge’s membership in a shadowy group known as the Third Circle. The nobleman killed before to acquire the crystal, and Thaddeus has no doubt that he will kill again.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
475 people are currently reading
2549 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Quick
93 books5,493 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 486 reviews
April 20, 2024
I'm really not into this hocus pocus / woo woo stuff so for me this was a fun hate read. This is the consequence of never reading a blurb.
One star.
One star.
November 13, 2023
May 13, 2009: It is hard for me to be objective about Jayne Ann Krentz, so I generally give any book of hers five stars on a first reading, mainly because I'm so happy to be reading something new by her. I wasn't halfway through the book before I came to the realization that it was going to be too short. I know nothing about psychic phenomena and generally don't like it as part of the plot, so I don't know how much of this is pure fiction and how much is research. If I keep reading these Arcane books, both past and present, I'll have to do some research of my own, however. The characters and dialogue are wonderful, so I raced through the book, skipping the sex parts as usual, which means I won't wait a full year to re-read it as I normally do. Any of Ms. Krentz's fans who do not re-read her books at least three times are really missing something. The second reading almost always gets a different reaction, and the third is just sheer fun, assuming you leave enough time between each reading. I recommend at least a year. Of course if you're one of those people who cannot abide knowing what is going to happen, don't bother because you can wait ten years to re-read one of these books and STILL remember what is going to happen. Most of them cling.
June 11, 2011: Okay, since I found this book at the Seattle Mystery Book Store and it was autographed, it went on my autographed book shelf rather than my JAK shelves. Therefore, it was more than a year before I realized that and re-read it. I was right. On the second reading, I have had a totally different reaction. I enjoyed Thaddeus and Leona more, appreciated their reactions to each other, and did not skip the sex scenes. Being able to read it at a more leisurely pace, I found the book much more interesting and have upped the rating to four stars as a result. Arcane books are still not my cup of tea, but JAK definitely is, whatever she writes.
August 22, 2013: Thaddeus's talent, hypnosis, and Leona's talent, crystal reading, were not two of my favorite possible esp's. However, I love the beginning of the book, which gets off to a fast start with a killing where Leona and Thaddeus accidentally meet over the body, not knowing if the other is guilty of murder. In spite of that, they immediately recognize something in each other that draws them together. Leona doesn't make it easy, first curing Thaddeus and then depositing his unconscious body in a wayside inn before disappearing. There's just one thing after another until you can't help but love the pace, the characters, and the dialog.
April 11, 2015: I am trying to read the Arcane Society series in order since they were published out of order and have come to the conclusion that this one is the second in the series with Second Sight being the first. I read White Lies second since JAK claims it is the second in the series but it referred to characters in the Perfect Poison, so I went there next and it in turn referred to characters in the Third Circle, so I stopped reading after the first chapter and headed for this one. That means I have to go with the reader's order rather than JAK's and will continue on that basis. As for The Third Circle, it is set in late Victorian times when rules and mores were beginning to relax for women, so that there is more leeway for the female character to behave strongly. Leona is a descendent of Sybil and provides a strong counterpoint to Thaddeus, a descendent of Sylvester. Sybil and Sylvester were rivals two hundred years before. I loved the way Leona was so wary of the Arcane Society and having anything to do with it or its members and throwing in her Uncle Edward was a nice touch. Lancing gave me chills, and I wasn't sorry to see him exit the story.
June 11, 2011: Okay, since I found this book at the Seattle Mystery Book Store and it was autographed, it went on my autographed book shelf rather than my JAK shelves. Therefore, it was more than a year before I realized that and re-read it. I was right. On the second reading, I have had a totally different reaction. I enjoyed Thaddeus and Leona more, appreciated their reactions to each other, and did not skip the sex scenes. Being able to read it at a more leisurely pace, I found the book much more interesting and have upped the rating to four stars as a result. Arcane books are still not my cup of tea, but JAK definitely is, whatever she writes.
August 22, 2013: Thaddeus's talent, hypnosis, and Leona's talent, crystal reading, were not two of my favorite possible esp's. However, I love the beginning of the book, which gets off to a fast start with a killing where Leona and Thaddeus accidentally meet over the body, not knowing if the other is guilty of murder. In spite of that, they immediately recognize something in each other that draws them together. Leona doesn't make it easy, first curing Thaddeus and then depositing his unconscious body in a wayside inn before disappearing. There's just one thing after another until you can't help but love the pace, the characters, and the dialog.
April 11, 2015: I am trying to read the Arcane Society series in order since they were published out of order and have come to the conclusion that this one is the second in the series with Second Sight being the first. I read White Lies second since JAK claims it is the second in the series but it referred to characters in the Perfect Poison, so I went there next and it in turn referred to characters in the Third Circle, so I stopped reading after the first chapter and headed for this one. That means I have to go with the reader's order rather than JAK's and will continue on that basis. As for The Third Circle, it is set in late Victorian times when rules and mores were beginning to relax for women, so that there is more leeway for the female character to behave strongly. Leona is a descendent of Sybil and provides a strong counterpoint to Thaddeus, a descendent of Sylvester. Sybil and Sylvester were rivals two hundred years before. I loved the way Leona was so wary of the Arcane Society and having anything to do with it or its members and throwing in her Uncle Edward was a nice touch. Lancing gave me chills, and I wasn't sorry to see him exit the story.
March 10, 2020
The basics: Amanda Quick and Jayne Ann Krentz are the same person. The historicals are under Quick with contemporary under Krentz. All feature the Arcane Society, a secret society that studies, catalogs, and protects people who have supernatural abilities. We're not talking superhero level stuff, but some type of enhanced paranormal senses along with powerful relics/objects that can be used by those with enhanced abilities. Because of the varying time periods and author names, the order to read these in is difficult to determine. For example, the title of this one says #4, but Quick/Krentz's author pages have it listed as 1.2. This is the third book I've read in this series (1 historical and 1 contemporary prior), and I didn't have any trouble following it. I recommend reading the first historical featuring the Arcane Society before anything else, however, due to the loads of background information.
The book: This was a fun read combining a murder mystery, lost artifact, and some romance. I enjoyed it. It isn't a book I'll re-read, but it was a good story that makes me want to read the others of the series. I'm particularly fascinated by a group in the story, the Janus Club. It's a club for women who dress as men, and the leader "Mr. Pierce" is a criminal mastermind. Secondary characters for both the historical romances so far, I'm hoping for a bigger role for this group in future books.
The book: This was a fun read combining a murder mystery, lost artifact, and some romance. I enjoyed it. It isn't a book I'll re-read, but it was a good story that makes me want to read the others of the series. I'm particularly fascinated by a group in the story, the Janus Club. It's a club for women who dress as men, and the leader "Mr. Pierce" is a criminal mastermind. Secondary characters for both the historical romances so far, I'm hoping for a bigger role for this group in future books.
August 1, 2013
I think I prefer those set in modern times to the Victorian ones. Not because she gets anything wrong with the period, or anything. I think it's just that the society works better without the whole psychical trappings of the Victorians weighing it down (though arcanematch.com still makes me cringe a bit). And yeah, that's more a comment on the series than this individual book, but I do recommend reading them together rather than individually so by this point, you should know what you're getting...
September 18, 2022
3.5 stars
December 12, 2022
We're delving deep into Arcane territory as Thaddeus (a cousin to the infamous Joneses) works on recovering a crystal with certain abilities. A crystal he and others believe belongs with Arcane. As it turns out, Leona disagrees. After all, the crystal was stolen from her mother, so it clearly belongs to her.
Let's just say Thaddeus and Leona agree to disagree while kinda-sorta working together. Mostly because Leona's life is in danger when it's in her hands and Thaddeus isn't okay with that.
While the ownership of the crystal is might be in contention, it's pretty clear that Leona has the ability to work that bad boy something fierce. Which she proves quite handily when she saves Thaddeus life. She also has a few secrets she isn't sure she's comfortable sharing with someone with such close ties to Arcane.
You know what? Let's just say things are complicated. After all, a secret society is already complicated. When you throw in a man who enjoys spilling blood, another secret society that's super creepy, and a crystal that has untold abilities...well, like I said, complicated.
No lie, I am enjoying delving into the mysterious happenings in the world of Arcane. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Let's just say Thaddeus and Leona agree to disagree while kinda-sorta working together. Mostly because Leona's life is in danger when it's in her hands and Thaddeus isn't okay with that.
While the ownership of the crystal is might be in contention, it's pretty clear that Leona has the ability to work that bad boy something fierce. Which she proves quite handily when she saves Thaddeus life. She also has a few secrets she isn't sure she's comfortable sharing with someone with such close ties to Arcane.
You know what? Let's just say things are complicated. After all, a secret society is already complicated. When you throw in a man who enjoys spilling blood, another secret society that's super creepy, and a crystal that has untold abilities...well, like I said, complicated.
No lie, I am enjoying delving into the mysterious happenings in the world of Arcane. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 20, 2022
I just love Krentz's writing and the way she creates empowered heroines and heroes who lift them up rather than drag them down. This is an oldie but a goodie. It's not as high heat or high drama as novels written in more recent days, but you know exactly what you're getting with Jayne Ann Krentz and she never misses.
May 6, 2016
Funnily enough I recall reading books #1 and #2 several years ago and then I somehow read book #3 and #5. Don't ask me why I skipped around like that. One good thing I can say is that the books really don't need to be read in order, however, I would suggest that readers do in order to keep certain reoccurring characters straight in their mind.
I can honestly say that this book dragged from beginning to end. It was a chore to get through and if I hadn't been sick and not in the mood to skip to another book, I would have DNFed this thing after our heroine (Leona) for the umpteenth times gets a thrill at the fact that the hero (Thaddeus) has threatened to take her (rape her). Blech.
I can say that I do like Amanda Quick books for the most part because it allows me to shut my brain off so to speak. I know that the hero/heroine are going to get together in the end and thwart their enemies. We are even going to get a steamy love scene or two. But geez oh geez this series with the Arcane Society reminded me of why I didn't read the other books. Because it's boring reading again and again about people's psychical abilities. Reading how Quick tries to explain them started making me laugh after a while. I wasn't kidding in my update about this being the Uncanny X-Men set in Victorian times because it really is.
Everyone's powers are over explained to the point that I just started to gloss over those descriptions.
Leona Hewitt is out to get back her family's crystal that legends say can enhance or destroy. While dressed as a man in order to steal the crystal from a private home, she comes across a dead woman and Thaddeus Ware. Thaddeus Ware has also entered the private home in order to steal the crystal due to it being an important artifact of the Arcane Society.
Leona I have to say that I didn't warm to at all during this book. She was not that bright that I saw when she comes across a strange man who keeps saying how he will do her harm to her getting excited and flushed about it. I don't care how good you are at helping people through their dreams/nightmares (also how is that a psychical ability?) that you think you are not going to be harmed by said stranger.
I actually didn't like Thaddeus that much either. Probably because of the whole insta-love thing he had going with Leona. I mean I hate it when women do that in romance novels, and apparently I hate it just as much when men do it. There is no rhyme or reason for them to fall in love with each other so quickly after 10 minutes. I guess you can hand-wave psychical abilities yadda, yadda, yadda, but Ms. Quick does not do a good job of setting up their romance at all in this book. Instead we focused two much on the villains in this book.
One interesting aspect of this book, and the only reason why I gave it two stars is that Ms. Quick adds in a society of women who go about living and dressing as men. I wanted to know more about them and how they were able to find one another. Other than that, bah to every other character.
The writing was typical Quick but draggy as hell. As I said above, we are given way too much time to get into the civilians heads in this book and it made everything so freaking slow.
The ending seriously reminded me of parts of the Phoenix Saga, super powerful female kicking ass, but it also made no sense either. So just like parts of the Phoenix Saga.
I can honestly say that this book dragged from beginning to end. It was a chore to get through and if I hadn't been sick and not in the mood to skip to another book, I would have DNFed this thing after our heroine (Leona) for the umpteenth times gets a thrill at the fact that the hero (Thaddeus) has threatened to take her (rape her). Blech.
I can say that I do like Amanda Quick books for the most part because it allows me to shut my brain off so to speak. I know that the hero/heroine are going to get together in the end and thwart their enemies. We are even going to get a steamy love scene or two. But geez oh geez this series with the Arcane Society reminded me of why I didn't read the other books. Because it's boring reading again and again about people's psychical abilities. Reading how Quick tries to explain them started making me laugh after a while. I wasn't kidding in my update about this being the Uncanny X-Men set in Victorian times because it really is.
Everyone's powers are over explained to the point that I just started to gloss over those descriptions.
Leona Hewitt is out to get back her family's crystal that legends say can enhance or destroy. While dressed as a man in order to steal the crystal from a private home, she comes across a dead woman and Thaddeus Ware. Thaddeus Ware has also entered the private home in order to steal the crystal due to it being an important artifact of the Arcane Society.
Leona I have to say that I didn't warm to at all during this book. She was not that bright that I saw when she comes across a strange man who keeps saying how he will do her harm to her getting excited and flushed about it. I don't care how good you are at helping people through their dreams/nightmares (also how is that a psychical ability?) that you think you are not going to be harmed by said stranger.
I actually didn't like Thaddeus that much either. Probably because of the whole insta-love thing he had going with Leona. I mean I hate it when women do that in romance novels, and apparently I hate it just as much when men do it. There is no rhyme or reason for them to fall in love with each other so quickly after 10 minutes. I guess you can hand-wave psychical abilities yadda, yadda, yadda, but Ms. Quick does not do a good job of setting up their romance at all in this book. Instead we focused two much on the villains in this book.
One interesting aspect of this book, and the only reason why I gave it two stars is that Ms. Quick adds in a society of women who go about living and dressing as men. I wanted to know more about them and how they were able to find one another. Other than that, bah to every other character.
The writing was typical Quick but draggy as hell. As I said above, we are given way too much time to get into the civilians heads in this book and it made everything so freaking slow.
The ending seriously reminded me of parts of the Phoenix Saga, super powerful female kicking ass, but it also made no sense either. So just like parts of the Phoenix Saga.
September 23, 2018
These Arcane Society historicals are so much fun, good plots, likeable characters. Wish there were more.
2018 - warning - there are quite a lot of rather steamy sexy-fun-times.
2018 - warning - there are quite a lot of rather steamy sexy-fun-times.
September 18, 2016
Aside from one of Amanda Quick's most recent books, I've been enjoying everything I've read of hers that are non-Arcane Society books. For some reason, the Arcane Society historicals have been a bit draggy in comparison to her other historical mystery/romantic suspense/historical romance books. And I'm not sure what it is, but while I DO enjoy reading them for the characters and for this tried-and-true formula that I've found myself liking, it's still a little disappointing that her hero and heroine go through the same romantic hoops and events.
On the other hand, I actually kind of enjoy the contemporary side of this Arcane Society series a lot more.
And then on another hand, I DO like how the books interweave between contemporary and historical.
Anyway, these books are still likable and enjoyable and addictive. I've just run out of things to say about them if something new doesn't come about. Because, as I'd already stated, it's the same formula with different characters. And honestly, there isn't even really anything different about each set of characters: Thaddeus is the typical alpha, broody hero. Leona is the feisty, intelligent, ahead-of-her-time heroine.
I DID come to love Aunt Victoria though; she was interesting to have around.
What I DIDN'T like was how this book was less of a mystery than a straight forward suspense with romance and sex and some investigating that didn't really amount to much, to be honest. Next to 'Til Death Do Us Part, this is probably my least favorite of Amanda Quick's work thus far.
***
2016 Reading Challenges:
• Goodreads Reading Challenge
• BookLikes Reading Challenge
• COYER Summer Vacation 2016 -- Bingo Board Two | Square E14 -- Historical
On the other hand, I actually kind of enjoy the contemporary side of this Arcane Society series a lot more.
And then on another hand, I DO like how the books interweave between contemporary and historical.
Anyway, these books are still likable and enjoyable and addictive. I've just run out of things to say about them if something new doesn't come about. Because, as I'd already stated, it's the same formula with different characters. And honestly, there isn't even really anything different about each set of characters: Thaddeus is the typical alpha, broody hero. Leona is the feisty, intelligent, ahead-of-her-time heroine.
I DID come to love Aunt Victoria though; she was interesting to have around.
What I DIDN'T like was how this book was less of a mystery than a straight forward suspense with romance and sex and some investigating that didn't really amount to much, to be honest. Next to 'Til Death Do Us Part, this is probably my least favorite of Amanda Quick's work thus far.
***
2016 Reading Challenges:
• Goodreads Reading Challenge
• BookLikes Reading Challenge
• COYER Summer Vacation 2016 -- Bingo Board Two | Square E14 -- Historical
July 27, 2011
4.5 stars. Thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the Arcane society series. It does give more background to the society and adds flavour to the other books. I don't think it is necessary to read these books in order but it would help :)
The chemistry (!) between Leona and Thaddeus was not exactly hot, but it was still good. There were some missing elements for me in this one. Not many minor characters to play a role, or the ones that were there weren't fleshed out much.
I am always thoroughly biased towards this author. Her writing has been described as "same old, same old" by someone on the A'zon threads. IMHO, this means consistently good writing. I know the storylines can be somewhat repetitive, but (for me anyway), it works!!!! As the saying goes, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." I know EXACTLY what I am getting when I pick up an AQ novel and that's just how I like it. I know I will be getting a satisfying read.
Recommended to all!
The chemistry (!) between Leona and Thaddeus was not exactly hot, but it was still good. There were some missing elements for me in this one. Not many minor characters to play a role, or the ones that were there weren't fleshed out much.
I am always thoroughly biased towards this author. Her writing has been described as "same old, same old" by someone on the A'zon threads. IMHO, this means consistently good writing. I know the storylines can be somewhat repetitive, but (for me anyway), it works!!!! As the saying goes, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." I know EXACTLY what I am getting when I pick up an AQ novel and that's just how I like it. I know I will be getting a satisfying read.
Recommended to all!
January 12, 2016
It is refreshing to read a series that does not have a lot of adrenaline powered emotions, unlike the characters the books are written about, and the romance that comes with it.
Each novel in this series is like a stand alone but with a tad of historical background that weaves its way into the story. I liked this one very much. I liked Leona and Thaddeus, unique, dangerous and mysterious. Did I mention that the Arcane Society seems to have a match making system for the paranormal characters in each book? Seems like there can be only one for each paranormal, one of a kind pairs in these stories. Interesting.
Each novel in this series is like a stand alone but with a tad of historical background that weaves its way into the story. I liked this one very much. I liked Leona and Thaddeus, unique, dangerous and mysterious. Did I mention that the Arcane Society seems to have a match making system for the paranormal characters in each book? Seems like there can be only one for each paranormal, one of a kind pairs in these stories. Interesting.
January 26, 2023
Якщо не покладати на книгу великих сподівань, вона може навіть сподобатися. Саме так у мене сталося з романом "Третє коло" Аманди Квік. Беручи книгу до рук, я знала, що це четверта частина циклу (єдина видана українською), втім мене це не зупинило. І не дарма)))
⠀
У центрі твору - кристал, за яким полює кримінальне середовище вікторіанського Лондона, таємна організація, до якої входять люди з паранормальними здібностями, та справжня власниця - відьма Леона. У кожного із "мисливців" своя мета, багато хто з них іде по трупах у прямому сенсі. Та не всім під силу вивільнити і застосувати енергію кристала.
⠀
У книзі є яскрава любовна лінія (відьма Леона та гіпнотизер Тадеус) і доволі цікава детективна (мене особливо зачепило протистояння Привида і Лансінґа та нічні жахіття (сни) від божевільного лікаря).
⠀
Книга ненав'язлива і легка у читанні. Але, зважаючи на те, що це лише частина циклу, залишає по собі певну недосказаність.
⠀
У центрі твору - кристал, за яким полює кримінальне середовище вікторіанського Лондона, таємна організація, до якої входять люди з паранормальними здібностями, та справжня власниця - відьма Леона. У кожного із "мисливців" своя мета, багато хто з них іде по трупах у прямому сенсі. Та не всім під силу вивільнити і застосувати енергію кристала.
⠀
У книзі є яскрава любовна лінія (відьма Леона та гіпнотизер Тадеус) і доволі цікава детективна (мене особливо зачепило протистояння Привида і Лансінґа та нічні жахіття (сни) від божевільного лікаря).
⠀
Книга ненав'язлива і легка у читанні. Але, зважаючи на те, що це лише частина циклу, залишає по собі певну недосказаність.
June 9, 2022
Late Victorian Era. London, England. Amanda Quick’s The Third Circle .(Arcane Society, #4) finds Leona Hewitt, dressed in formal men’s attire, among Lord Delbridge’s private collection attempting to retrieve’a relic’ which belongs to her family but had been stolen many years ago. She is not alone. A ‘black-cloaked man’ with a mesmerizing voice is on the same mission but for the Arcane Society. Thaddeus Ware catches Leona Hewitt, “a force to be reckoned with” because although dressed as a man, she is a woman who is “a gifted crystal worker” who appears to have “hypnotic power” over the man with the mesmerizing voice. Leona will fight for what is rightfully hers, but Thaddeus is aware that Lord Delbridge has terminated two people already to possess the crystal. Aided by “a seductive hunter of preternatural skill” named ‘The Midnight Monster’ by the newspapers, Thaddeus and Leona with the crystal become targets of both Delbridge and ‘The Midnight Monster. Can their psychical talents be enough to win against such strong evil? Enthralling! 4.5 stars
April 7, 2010
A private investigator, hypnotist, member of Arcane Society and a crystal worker meet under strange circumstances. Over a woman’s dead body. Establishing that neither of them is the killer, they resume their plans, which turn out to be the same as well. They have to take possession of a certain crystal. He claims it belongs to the Arcane Society, she claims it belongs to her. And it is protected by a strange nightmare-inducing concoction that plunges him into the depths of hell. Aided by the crystal she saves him…And then leaves him exhausted in a nearby inn, knowing he would never find her.
Well, she didn’t count with his perseverance, stubbornness, and the strange bonds that bind them together. Because he tracks her down the next day, and then whisks her away to his townhouse when it becomes clear the crystal has been stolen from her, proving the villains know who she is, putting her in grave danger.
But living in his house proves to be yet another danger. For them both. Because the bonds between them only strengthen. But they might not live to see where their budding romance might lead them, for the enemy in possession of the crystal is now after her as well.
Another great installment in the Arcane Society series. A thrilling, chilling, exciting story sprinkled with paranormal elements and a helping of romance. Wonderful characters, wonderful villains, great mystery, tight plot, great pacing, and wonderful suspense with two intertwining subplots that came to full-circle toward the end.
Loved the tidbit about the establishment of J&J (can’t wait for Caleb’s story), but I did miss a bit more of a "resolution" between Leona and Thaddeus in the end.
4 ½ stars
Well, she didn’t count with his perseverance, stubbornness, and the strange bonds that bind them together. Because he tracks her down the next day, and then whisks her away to his townhouse when it becomes clear the crystal has been stolen from her, proving the villains know who she is, putting her in grave danger.
But living in his house proves to be yet another danger. For them both. Because the bonds between them only strengthen. But they might not live to see where their budding romance might lead them, for the enemy in possession of the crystal is now after her as well.
Another great installment in the Arcane Society series. A thrilling, chilling, exciting story sprinkled with paranormal elements and a helping of romance. Wonderful characters, wonderful villains, great mystery, tight plot, great pacing, and wonderful suspense with two intertwining subplots that came to full-circle toward the end.
Loved the tidbit about the establishment of J&J (can’t wait for Caleb’s story), but I did miss a bit more of a "resolution" between Leona and Thaddeus in the end.
4 ½ stars
August 5, 2014
Historical Paranormal
Historical Paranormal
THE THIRD CIRCLE is the fourth book in the Arcane Society series. It is the story of Thaddeus Ware, who is a hypnotic talent and Leona Hewitt, who is a crystal worker. Both of them end up being somewhat on the fringes because neither talent is well respected amongst the Arcane. The two end up working together to solve a serial killer mystery and also the story of the series of a cabal intending to enhance talents for criminal purposes continues to be a threat to the Arcane Society.
While readers of the series will be pleased with the progress of the ongoing story, new readers can pick up this book without missing much. The Arcane books are written as historicals (Amanda Quick), contemporaries (Jayne Ann Krentz) and futuristic (Jayne Castle). While this book is the fourth in the series, the only historical proceeding it is SECOND SIGHT. Each time period can be read separately but the history is continued throughout the series.
This book has one of my favorite couples. Thaddeus and Leona are two people who have been isolated from people because of their talents. Leona is acting as a crystal worker helping people deal with bad dreams. Thaddeus is using his talent to help solve crimes with Scotland Yard. The two meet over a dead body both thinking that the other may be a murderer. The two end up having a deep connection that is both emotional and psychic.
The interweaving of the killer and cabal mystery keeps a reader on edge trying to figure out where the various pieces of the puzzle go. I really like how the various levels of story are interweaved in this book and through the series.
Historical Paranormal
THE THIRD CIRCLE is the fourth book in the Arcane Society series. It is the story of Thaddeus Ware, who is a hypnotic talent and Leona Hewitt, who is a crystal worker. Both of them end up being somewhat on the fringes because neither talent is well respected amongst the Arcane. The two end up working together to solve a serial killer mystery and also the story of the series of a cabal intending to enhance talents for criminal purposes continues to be a threat to the Arcane Society.
While readers of the series will be pleased with the progress of the ongoing story, new readers can pick up this book without missing much. The Arcane books are written as historicals (Amanda Quick), contemporaries (Jayne Ann Krentz) and futuristic (Jayne Castle). While this book is the fourth in the series, the only historical proceeding it is SECOND SIGHT. Each time period can be read separately but the history is continued throughout the series.
This book has one of my favorite couples. Thaddeus and Leona are two people who have been isolated from people because of their talents. Leona is acting as a crystal worker helping people deal with bad dreams. Thaddeus is using his talent to help solve crimes with Scotland Yard. The two meet over a dead body both thinking that the other may be a murderer. The two end up having a deep connection that is both emotional and psychic.
The interweaving of the killer and cabal mystery keeps a reader on edge trying to figure out where the various pieces of the puzzle go. I really like how the various levels of story are interweaved in this book and through the series.
August 14, 2022
Nagyon szeretem Amanda paranormális regényeit, főleg azokat amik az Arkana Társasághoz kapcsolódnak. Szeretem a Janus klubbot, izgalmas ötlet.
Izgalmas, kalandos, fordulatos regény lett. Leona nagyon szimpatikus, Thaddeus pedig magának való, jó volt viszontlátni Veneitát és Gabrielt.
Izgalmas, kalandos, fordulatos regény lett. Leona nagyon szimpatikus, Thaddeus pedig magának való, jó volt viszontlátni Veneitát és Gabrielt.
May 28, 2016
3.75......... every now and again I just gotta have a historical romance in Victorian London filled with a little paranormal goings on. This one fit the bill. :)
October 6, 2023
The updated cover for the Audible/audio version isn't available on GR yet. That said, this cover is close so whatever. On a whim, I started listening to the Arcane series, doing it not in publication/list order, but in the historic chronological order. That means the Amanda Quick books first. In this order, this book is the 2nd in the series. In Victorian England, paranormal is quite in vogue--so much so that charletans abound. Leona Hewitt is a crystal "reader," a paranormal talent that the "exalted" Arcane Society looks down upon. Thaddeus Ware is a mesmerist, another talent that is met with disdain--or fear. Thaddeus is a cousin of the powerful Jones family, and they are all talents of incredible power. The fact he can hypnotise people easily puts them off. Add in a powerful crystal, a cabal of men seeking more power, and throw these two into the middle of it. Add in an insane "hunter" with a taste for murdering prostitutes and you have a formula full of intrigue, romance, and mutual rescuing. This is a fun one, enhanced by Islay Jacobs narration.
May 7, 2018
Paranormal, crystals, murder, who dun it, kidnapping and power, the "Third Circle" has it all. Also a love story.
Leona Hewitt in old era England, tries to obtain crystals that were stolen from her family, while doing so, she feels another presence, some one else is trying to obtain same crystals, that is not all, while they both discuss the paranormal feelings that are surrounding them, they come across a dead body.
Thaddeus Ware tries to hypnotize Leona, however she is too powerful for him, as he tries to steal the crystal, a poison is released into his face, he knows about this poison and tells Leona to be aware of him, he will soon die, but not without hurting her first. Fast forward with the help of the crystal Leona can save him, and the two of them join forces together to face the evil that is trying to gain much power. There are secret societies a foot. More murders, Leona and Thaddeus are up against circles withing circles of this secret society, can they stay alive? Will they prevail?
I guess I will have to buy the rest in the series to see what is happening in the Arcane Society, and this is book 4, where have I been?
Leona Hewitt in old era England, tries to obtain crystals that were stolen from her family, while doing so, she feels another presence, some one else is trying to obtain same crystals, that is not all, while they both discuss the paranormal feelings that are surrounding them, they come across a dead body.
Thaddeus Ware tries to hypnotize Leona, however she is too powerful for him, as he tries to steal the crystal, a poison is released into his face, he knows about this poison and tells Leona to be aware of him, he will soon die, but not without hurting her first. Fast forward with the help of the crystal Leona can save him, and the two of them join forces together to face the evil that is trying to gain much power. There are secret societies a foot. More murders, Leona and Thaddeus are up against circles withing circles of this secret society, can they stay alive? Will they prevail?
I guess I will have to buy the rest in the series to see what is happening in the Arcane Society, and this is book 4, where have I been?
January 19, 2020
Jedna z późniejszych książek autorki, i zdecydowanie widać u niej postęp warsztatowy, jak też to, że bardziej dojrzale podchodzi do relacji między dwojgiem ludzi. Fabuła skupia się jednak bardziej na intrydze kryminalnej i mgliście nakreślonych paranormalnych zdolnościach bohaterów - co skądinąd jest bardzo interesujące - ale przez to bardzo po łebkach potraktowano sam wątek romansowy.
Jedna z książek, w której też w tle przewijają się osoby LGBT, co jest ciekawe, bo zgrabnie wplecione w epokę.
Jedna z książek, w której też w tle przewijają się osoby LGBT, co jest ciekawe, bo zgrabnie wplecione w epokę.
September 1, 2018
This one was... not great. I don't know why, but I had real trouble engaging with it in any way. Something was just off. It's not terrible, it's just... meh.
I mean, my favourite parts where when we found out how chunks of the Arcane Society and Jones and Jones were formed, oh also the associated matchmaking service. Also, seeing some of the early/obscure Arcane talents is fun. I was pretty neutral on anything non-mythology related though.
I mean, my favourite parts where when we found out how chunks of the Arcane Society and Jones and Jones were formed, oh also the associated matchmaking service. Also, seeing some of the early/obscure Arcane talents is fun. I was pretty neutral on anything non-mythology related though.
July 8, 2019
Another good one, and this one has a dog. Nicely complex plot and a extra loose end wrapped up at the end, which was very satisfying.
April 23, 2024
Méltó folytatása volt a Tiéd vagyok!-nak. Örülök, hogy előkerültek a korábbi kötetben szereplők is az újak mellett, mert szeretem tudni, mi történt a már megkedvelt karakterekkel a későbbiekben.
Victoria néni, haláli nőszemély.
Victoria néni, haláli nőszemély.
October 29, 2023
Setting: 100 years earlier - London – her apartment, his city townhouse, the abbey, her ‘office’ for crystal/dream readings; the Arcane Society;
Theme:
Power; love/bonding; protection;
Characters:
Leona Hewitt aka Mrs. Ravenblas: crystal worker; psychic power to ‘see’ others dreams, and to help ease people; has noticed that when gifted use their gifts, they have fewer dream / sleep issues; lost parents, and mentored by Uncle Edward – who taught her how to use her gift to make money – a bit of a gypsy type business; she poses as veiled widow, to disguise her youth and and mystery to readings;
Thaddeus Ware aka Ghost: Mesmerist – with voice, can hypnotize and control others; private investigator; works for self and Arcane Society; somewhat isolated, as people don’t want someone who can control them as friend or as lover; known on streets as Ghost, useful for getting information and for helping hopeless; Jones on mother’s side;
Caleb Jones: cousin to Thaddeus – One who can find patterns in chaos; the founder of Jones and Jones investigations – to investigate the paranormal and those who use it for ill;
Gabriel and Venetia Jones: head of the arcane Society;
Sylvester Jones: Jones grandfather; alchemist; developed a formula to enhance psy power;
Fog: Leona’s wolf/dog – they have a psy link, that helps the dog protect her;
Mr. Pierce / Adam Harrow: lesbian women, who disguise selves as men (part of an organization) – one has pulse of underworld; Leona’s friends
Lady Victoria Milton: Thaddeus’ aunt; he is staying with her, and bring Leona there for her safety; she is dealing with melancholy and little sleep; gruff; Leona uses her crystals to help her get into touch with her dreams (and to deal with her losses)… and she advises her that those who use their psy power seem less stressed – encouraging her to use her power – to know which couples don’t sync and which do – for matchmaking…
Lord Delbridge: collector of psy artifacts; wants to join the 3rd Circle of the Order of the Emerald Tablet (an ancient reference) so agrees to steal the Hewitt crystal – and then to kidnap Leona – who can manipulate the crystal; ends up dead, once Society decides he is too risky, and has served his purpose;
Lansing/Midnight Monster: Serial killer of prostitutes… and signs on with Delbridge to kill;
Uncle Edward Pipewell: when Leona’s parents died, he shows up (when she is 16) and teaches her how to take advantage of her crystal/dream influence/readings paired with theatrics to make money; he built relationships with her clients (many of the Arcane Society) and took their money as an investment in a mine in America… and disappeared for 2 years… he shows up in the end, with payoffs for the investors;
Sybil the Virgin Sorceress: contemporary of Sylvester Jones… did not become his lover as he only wanted to experiment with genetics and children… she helped him develop the formula, and she hid a copy in a strongbox with a magic crystal she infused… Third Circle has the box, and want the crystal, then want Leona (Sybils descendent) to operate;
Order of the Emerald Tablet (ancient alchemy text) / Third Circle:
Summary:
Leona (dressed as a man) and Thaddeus find themselves both in Delbridge’s house to obtain / steal the crystal; but they find a murdered woman in the museum room… and Thad becomes determined to get Leona and himself out safely… then the crystal calls to Leona… and Thad breaks into the cabinet to retrieve it (Leona’s lock picking skills are weak)… but he ends up with a noseful of a gas that will cause extreme hallucinations and kill him… Leona insists that Thadd come with her (Mr. Pierce has carriage waiting for her)… and she uses her crystal abilities to help him move through the hallucinations (nightmares) and be okay… although there is a few minutes there where she is being drawn in, and Thadd primally claims her as his…he conks out, exhausted… they take him to an inn, and pay for a night and breakfast for him, leaving him there.
And Thadd tracks her down… concerned for her safety… and because he is drawn to her… talks her into moving in with him, after the crystal is restolen from her house… and the two work together to retrack the crystal and the plot – though Leona has to assert herself for him to include her in the dangerous stuff;
And Leona is kidnapped, when Thadd out on red herring… and though the 3rd circle wants to use her to open the box… remembering her uncle’s words, and feeling the power of her great, great grandma’s crystal, she controls the 5 men, as she engages the crystal and instead of opening the box, she sends them all a mind zap… just as Thadd and Fog get there to rescue her;
Memorable scenes:
“Give the customers a show.” “You must control your audience, never let your audience control you.” Words of training from Uncle Edward… words Leona recalls repeatedly when she finds her in tricky situations;
Theme:
Power; love/bonding; protection;
Characters:
Leona Hewitt aka Mrs. Ravenblas: crystal worker; psychic power to ‘see’ others dreams, and to help ease people; has noticed that when gifted use their gifts, they have fewer dream / sleep issues; lost parents, and mentored by Uncle Edward – who taught her how to use her gift to make money – a bit of a gypsy type business; she poses as veiled widow, to disguise her youth and and mystery to readings;
Thaddeus Ware aka Ghost: Mesmerist – with voice, can hypnotize and control others; private investigator; works for self and Arcane Society; somewhat isolated, as people don’t want someone who can control them as friend or as lover; known on streets as Ghost, useful for getting information and for helping hopeless; Jones on mother’s side;
Caleb Jones: cousin to Thaddeus – One who can find patterns in chaos; the founder of Jones and Jones investigations – to investigate the paranormal and those who use it for ill;
Gabriel and Venetia Jones: head of the arcane Society;
Sylvester Jones: Jones grandfather; alchemist; developed a formula to enhance psy power;
Fog: Leona’s wolf/dog – they have a psy link, that helps the dog protect her;
Mr. Pierce / Adam Harrow: lesbian women, who disguise selves as men (part of an organization) – one has pulse of underworld; Leona’s friends
Lady Victoria Milton: Thaddeus’ aunt; he is staying with her, and bring Leona there for her safety; she is dealing with melancholy and little sleep; gruff; Leona uses her crystals to help her get into touch with her dreams (and to deal with her losses)… and she advises her that those who use their psy power seem less stressed – encouraging her to use her power – to know which couples don’t sync and which do – for matchmaking…
Lord Delbridge: collector of psy artifacts; wants to join the 3rd Circle of the Order of the Emerald Tablet (an ancient reference) so agrees to steal the Hewitt crystal – and then to kidnap Leona – who can manipulate the crystal; ends up dead, once Society decides he is too risky, and has served his purpose;
Lansing/Midnight Monster: Serial killer of prostitutes… and signs on with Delbridge to kill;
Uncle Edward Pipewell: when Leona’s parents died, he shows up (when she is 16) and teaches her how to take advantage of her crystal/dream influence/readings paired with theatrics to make money; he built relationships with her clients (many of the Arcane Society) and took their money as an investment in a mine in America… and disappeared for 2 years… he shows up in the end, with payoffs for the investors;
Sybil the Virgin Sorceress: contemporary of Sylvester Jones… did not become his lover as he only wanted to experiment with genetics and children… she helped him develop the formula, and she hid a copy in a strongbox with a magic crystal she infused… Third Circle has the box, and want the crystal, then want Leona (Sybils descendent) to operate;
Order of the Emerald Tablet (ancient alchemy text) / Third Circle:
Summary:
Leona (dressed as a man) and Thaddeus find themselves both in Delbridge’s house to obtain / steal the crystal; but they find a murdered woman in the museum room… and Thad becomes determined to get Leona and himself out safely… then the crystal calls to Leona… and Thad breaks into the cabinet to retrieve it (Leona’s lock picking skills are weak)… but he ends up with a noseful of a gas that will cause extreme hallucinations and kill him… Leona insists that Thadd come with her (Mr. Pierce has carriage waiting for her)… and she uses her crystal abilities to help him move through the hallucinations (nightmares) and be okay… although there is a few minutes there where she is being drawn in, and Thadd primally claims her as his…he conks out, exhausted… they take him to an inn, and pay for a night and breakfast for him, leaving him there.
And Thadd tracks her down… concerned for her safety… and because he is drawn to her… talks her into moving in with him, after the crystal is restolen from her house… and the two work together to retrack the crystal and the plot – though Leona has to assert herself for him to include her in the dangerous stuff;
And Leona is kidnapped, when Thadd out on red herring… and though the 3rd circle wants to use her to open the box… remembering her uncle’s words, and feeling the power of her great, great grandma’s crystal, she controls the 5 men, as she engages the crystal and instead of opening the box, she sends them all a mind zap… just as Thadd and Fog get there to rescue her;
Memorable scenes:
“Give the customers a show.” “You must control your audience, never let your audience control you.” Words of training from Uncle Edward… words Leona recalls repeatedly when she finds her in tricky situations;
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2019
I have been enjoying the Arcane Society series by Amanda Quick. I prefer the books set back in the Victorian period in London. I think some of the Arcane Society series are set in more modern times. In this installment, Leona Hewitt, a young woman who has the ability to harness the power of crystals, meets Thaddeus Ware, a cousin of the Jones brothers, Caleb and Gabriel. Thaddeus's power comes from his ability to use hypnotism to control people's action within certain guidelines. A group of five conspirators calling themselves The Third Circle want to use the aurora stone as a powerful weapon for evil. Thaddeus and Leona need to stop them. It is a fun example of a Victorian thriller with a bit of passion and romance added in.
April 19, 2019
This was a reread. I actually find Amanda Quick's Arcane Society & Vanza series a bit spooky and creepy. The paranormal stuff gives me the chills. But I didn't have anything else to read (left my Kindle at home) and really needed to read something, so...
The good thing about Quick's books is that the couple usually work together to solve the mystery / crime. That is to say, you don't get damsels in distress. Leona is just as psychically powerful as Thaddeus, although they have different talents, and she early on in the book she even saves him by using her talent.
Quick can write, I have to say that, and keeps you turning the page even though the evilness she describes is so strong, and at the same time so cold and greedy to commit even more evil, it gives you the heebie-jeebies. Now that I'm writing this, I realise that's what bothers me the most: the sheer evil she depicts in her villains. *shudders* In fact, in this book one of them is described as a madman, feeding off the heady knowledge of his power and the violence he commits with it. He *revels* in the violence and death. Ugh.
The good thing about Quick's books is that the couple usually work together to solve the mystery / crime. That is to say, you don't get damsels in distress. Leona is just as psychically powerful as Thaddeus, although they have different talents, and she early on in the book she even saves him by using her talent.
Quick can write, I have to say that, and keeps you turning the page even though the evilness she describes is so strong, and at the same time so cold and greedy to commit even more evil, it gives you the heebie-jeebies. Now that I'm writing this, I realise that's what bothers me the most: the sheer evil she depicts in her villains. *shudders* In fact, in this book one of them is described as a madman, feeding off the heady knowledge of his power and the violence he commits with it. He *revels* in the violence and death. Ugh.
May 31, 2010
I haven’t read any of the previous books, so I was coming into this mid-series cold turkey. Overall, it worked as a standalone book since it focused primarily on the romance of Leona and Thaddeus although I think it would have helped if I had read the others before it. There were references to previous characters and plot points that I didn’t know too much about but it didn’t hamper my enjoyment of the story too much.
I have read other Amanda Quick novels so I’m familiar with her writing style. This book falls in line with her other novels. Quick seems to be repetitive with certain phrases in her books and she, of course, delivered on this one. Usually her characters have some kind of instant attraction from the start. With this one the chemistry was good between the hero and heroine, but I felt like it happened too quick which led to less of a build up and tension and less passion. Although I must admit there was one sex scene in particular that was pretty hot.
I have read other Amanda Quick novels so I’m familiar with her writing style. This book falls in line with her other novels. Quick seems to be repetitive with certain phrases in her books and she, of course, delivered on this one. Usually her characters have some kind of instant attraction from the start. With this one the chemistry was good between the hero and heroine, but I felt like it happened too quick which led to less of a build up and tension and less passion. Although I must admit there was one sex scene in particular that was pretty hot.
November 14, 2010
I'm enjoying the Arcane Society series. Since the books go back and forth between the 17th century and now and the main characters seem to rotate with each book, although characters from previous books seem to make cameos here and there, I don't find that the books are feeling too formuliac(is that a word?) at the moment. Each story seems fresh and new, new characters, new paranormal senses to deal with.
I liked Thaddeus and Leona's relationship and that she was not in any way a whimpy Victorian woman. Not to give anything away but her ability to work crystals should put a touch of fear in the men around her.
Adam Harrow and Mr. Pierce, the lesbian couple living as men, made a return appearance and I wish Amanda Quick would devote a book to their relationship. I'm intrigued as to their relationship and Victorian society and wonder if there really were clubs where women dressed as men and were able to live an alternative lifestyle.
I liked Thaddeus and Leona's relationship and that she was not in any way a whimpy Victorian woman. Not to give anything away but her ability to work crystals should put a touch of fear in the men around her.
Adam Harrow and Mr. Pierce, the lesbian couple living as men, made a return appearance and I wish Amanda Quick would devote a book to their relationship. I'm intrigued as to their relationship and Victorian society and wonder if there really were clubs where women dressed as men and were able to live an alternative lifestyle.
May 2, 2015
Întotdeauna am fost atrasă de epoca victoriană, în care doamnele şi domnişoarele, fie că erau din înalta societate sau nu, purtau rochii din mătăsuri care mai de care mai colorate şi mai fine la atingere, rochii cu creolină, dantelate, pălărioare şi câte şi mai câte.
Deşi această carte nu a fost prea codimentată şi puteai să-ţi dai seama de anumite lucruri încă de la început, au fost şi destule momente care să-ţi menţină interesul treaz.
Personajele principale, Leona Hewitt şi Thaddeus Ware, mi-au plăcut de la prima lor întâlnire. Deşi nu ştiau asta, cei doi aveau ca scop comun găsirea unui cristal. Dar nu era orice fel de cristal, iar la acel moment, se afla în posesia lordului Delbridge. Leona putea simţi cristalele, iar Thaddeus era un maestru în arta hipnozei. Fiecare dorea cristalul pentru el.
Mai multe aici: http://shattering-words.blogspot.ro/2...
Deşi această carte nu a fost prea codimentată şi puteai să-ţi dai seama de anumite lucruri încă de la început, au fost şi destule momente care să-ţi menţină interesul treaz.
Personajele principale, Leona Hewitt şi Thaddeus Ware, mi-au plăcut de la prima lor întâlnire. Deşi nu ştiau asta, cei doi aveau ca scop comun găsirea unui cristal. Dar nu era orice fel de cristal, iar la acel moment, se afla în posesia lordului Delbridge. Leona putea simţi cristalele, iar Thaddeus era un maestru în arta hipnozei. Fiecare dorea cristalul pentru el.
Mai multe aici: http://shattering-words.blogspot.ro/2...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 486 reviews