As You Wish (Time of Transition, #2)

Apr 20, 2012 Aimeekay rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

*whew* Flew through this one about as quickly as I did the first. I really enjoyed the world that Gabi Stevens has created. As I said before a great way to describe her world is a Harry Potter for grown-ups. She introduced more of the Arcani society in this one, as well as more of the magical creatures that exist. I love Alfred the gnome and his friends that he brings to help out at the bakery. I also really Reggie's other assistants at the bakery, Joy and Tommy. It was a unique way to work in...more
*whew* Flew through this one about as quickly as I did the first. I really enjoyed the world that Gabi Stevens has created. As I said before a great way to describe her world is a Harry Potter for grown-ups. She introduced more of the Arcani society in this one, as well as more of the magical creatures that exist. I love Alfred the gnome and his friends that he brings to help out at the bakery. I also really Reggie's other assistants at the bakery, Joy and Tommy. It was a unique way to work in how the magical world isn't that different from the groundling world when it comes right down to it. In both its people and in the way they can be biased against even their own kind.

As for the main characters, Reggie and Jonathan aren't xerox copies of Kristin and Tennyson. So while they were the main characters, and yes they are each others romantic interest in the story, their story is definitely their own. I think the only real similarities between Kristin and Reggie are that they both didn't have magic til they were 27, they are both strong women and they both think outside the box. Kristin knew nothing of magic til she was thrown into it when she became a fairy godmother. Reggie, however, was born to an Arcani family. She never thought she would get powers, but she knew that magic existed. As for the boys, while they are both incredibly handsome and sexy on the outside, their insides couldn't be more different. Tennyson was a grouch yes, but he wasn't manipulative or trying to take advantage of Kristin. Jonathan however has his secrets and while he eventually falls for Reggie, his intentions aren't as noble as they could be in the beginning.

As for complaints about the story...I had a few, but they weren't major, and they didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story. First there was no scenes with Callie and Zach. Yes I know they are the friends of the hero and heroine of the first book, but I really like Callie, I thought she was sweet and I wanted to find out how things are working out between them.
Also I had pretty much figured out Jonathan and Nate's secrets by the middle of the book. But, as I said before, it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story and seeing how the author finally revealed their secrets.

It's a romance. Yes it is part of a series, so the story, while not a straight drop cliffie, is still open at the end. But the characters do get their own Happily Ever After at the end. I love those so I'm not complaining I'm just letting those who don't do Romance because it's too predictable know ahead of time. I still think they should give the books a chance though because they are a fun read. Also as a reminder these are not kid books. No matter how pretty the cover or fun they are! There is sex. The story doesn't just act as filler between them, but they are still there. So don't let the little ones read it. As for the adults reading it, the sex scenes are decent and while they are graphic they aren't erotica, so I don't think anyone would be that offended by them. I'm off to read the next book in the series!!! (less)

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Jan 28, 2012 Felicia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-read

Review copy from Author (I will be buying when it releases)
This title will be released on April 26, 2011.

What I Loved: Reggie was a wonderful central character. She was giving, strong, quick thinking, willing to try new things, and smart. All the things a fairy godmother in training should be! She really was my kind of gal, research then make a decision on what she believes. Normally the secondary characters end up in my "what I liked" section but I fell in love with Joy, Tommy, Alf, her parents...more

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Apr 07, 2011 The Pen & Muse rated it 5 of 5 stars

So when one of my favorite author’s, Gabi Stevens asks me to read her next sequel to one of my favorite books, The Wish List, how am I going to say no?! I mean just look at the cover (I mean really look at the amazing cover). This continues on the amazing legacy of the fairy godmothers. Now this story talks about a new character, Reggie who is a newly appointed fairy godmother. Poor Reggie is thrust into this new world of magic and faces a curse, a plot to overthrow the Arcani, and an entirely t...more

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Apr 29, 2011 Linda Bsss rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Regina Scott Was A Groundling That Could Not Do Magic Although Her Parents And Younger Sister Could, Once Her Parents Saw What A Failure She Was They Put Her Into Special Arcani Classes Until She Was Old Enough To Take College Classes At The Groundling's College. At Turning Twenty-Seven Last Week She Was Proud That Her Bakery Was Doing So Well And She Had Provided Jobs And An Apartment For Joy And Tommy Who Both Had Special Needs And She Protected Them For Rude Remarks. The Newspaper Reported Th...more Regina Scott Was A Groundling That Could Not Do Magic Although Her Parents And Younger Sister Could, Once Her Parents Saw What A Failure She Was They Put Her Into Special Arcani Classes Until She Was Old Enough To Take College Classes At The Groundling's College. At Turning Twenty-Seven Last Week She Was Proud That Her Bakery Was Doing So Well And She Had Provided Jobs And An Apartment For Joy And Tommy Who Both Had Special Needs And She Protected Them For Rude Remarks. The Newspaper Reported That The Newly Chosen Fairy godmother And Her Arbiter Had Fled From The Arcani Council And Were Wanted For Questioning, In Fact In Was In The News For Ten Days And Little Else. At Six Thirty On The Dot, Nate Appeared At Her Door And She Hurried To Let Him In. Nate Worn A Long Leather Coat, Gloves, And The Only Part That Could Be Seen Of His Face Was His Blue Eyes. Nate Had Been Stopping At Her Bakery For Six Months Now And Always Sat At The Same Table And Ordered That Same Thing . Reggie Was Amazed That He Could Stay Bundled Up In The California Heat But She Knew He Liked His Privacy So She Did Not Ask About It. From The Corner Of Her Eye She Saw The Three godmothers At Her Door And Before She Grasp The Door Nob It Opened. She Thought One Of Them Had Opened It But Was Surprised When They Told Her That She Was Chosen As The New Fairy godmother! How Could That Be When She Had No Magic?

Nate Citadel Needed Reggie's Help Once He Discovered That She Was The New Fairy godmother. What A Stroke Of Luck That He Had Chose Her Bakery! He Hated To Use Her Like This But He Hoped That She Could Break The Curse Put On Him Seven Long Years Ago And Maybe He Could Make It Up To Her When She Broke The Curse.......

Ms. Stevens Spins A Riveting Story That Intrigues You From The First Page! Poor Reggie Is Delighted That She Now Had Magic Since She Just Turned Twenty-Seven Last Week But She Had Much To Learn And A Business To Run So How Was She Supposed To Do Both? As Pieces Of The Puzzle Of The Renegade godmother And Her Arbiter Fell In Place, Reggie Found Herself Doubting Whom To Trust As She Discovered One Man's Plan To Rule The World, And A Council That Only Cared!(less)

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Oct 27, 2011 Christi Snow rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

My Review:
This is one of those books that you read purely for the fun and entertainment value of it. Filled with magic, godmothers, wishes, curses, and a grumpy gnome, it keeps you laughing and it keeps you guessing as the Arcani world is faced with a threat that no one believes is there, but three magical godmothers and the two (so far) that have been chosen to replace them.

This is book #2 in the Three Godmothers series. This book is about Reggie, the second person chosen to take over a positio...more My Review:
This is one of those books that you read purely for the fun and entertainment value of it. Filled with magic, godmothers, wishes, curses, and a grumpy gnome, it keeps you laughing and it keeps you guessing as the Arcani world is faced with a threat that no one believes is there, but three magical godmothers and the two (so far) that have been chosen to replace them.

This is book #2 in the Three Godmothers series. This book is about Reggie, the second person chosen to take over a position as a Fairy Godmother. The thing about the Godmother position is that those who are chosen never have access to their magic and know nothing about the position until their 27th birthday. So Reggie has grown up her entire life living in an Arcani household as a failure because she didn't have any magic. She was put in the Special Education classes in school because of it and that is where she met her two bakers, Tommy & Joy (who are developmentally disabled.) The three of them run a very successful bakery together.

One of her customers at the bakery is Nate. He's a very private person who comes in early to avoid other customers and stays completely covered at all times, but Reggie and him share a friendship of sorts.

She has also just met Jonathon Bastion and is starting a very nice romantic relationship with him (seemingly the perfect guy.)

But there is definitely something brewing that is not right. The three former Godmothers are on the run from the Arcani council. The first newly chosen Godmother, Tess & her fiance (story from book #1), are on the run also because all is not right in the Arcani world. So Reggie is trying to figure out who is lying, who is telling the truth, and what the heck to do with all this new-found magic within her.

Like I said, this is simply a fun little book. I loved the characters of Jonathon and Nate and Reggie definitely had her moments where she was brilliant. I loved watching her learn how to channel her magic and believe in it. There is a fabulous cast of characters including Alf, Tommy, and Joy, who all run the bakery in Reggie's absence. I saw most of the twists and turns coming, but that didn't make me enjoy them any less.

And to help entice you more, Gabi Stevens has committed 10% of the sales from this book go to Best Buddies, a wonderful organization that helps pair up individuals with IDD to a peer buddy whose job it is simply to be a friend.(less)

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Apr 26, 2011 Stella rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011, for-review, paranormal, romance

As You Wish is Book #2 in Gabi Stevens' Time of Transition series, and a magical contemporary romantic fairy tale. This series is all about fairy godmothers, magic wands and spells! You see the transition period is when the present three fairy godmothers step down and give up their position to the three newly selected ones. Book #1 told the story of Kristin the first fairy godmother and Book #2 tells the story of Reggie, a young woman who has lived her whole life believing she didn't have any ma...more

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Jul 31, 2012 Rebecca rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: book-chick-city-reviews-2012

Reviewed for Book Chick City
http://www.bookchickcity.com/2012/07/...

AS YOU WISH by Gabi Stevens follows on from THE WISH LIST (review here), continuing the story of the Arcani world during the Time of Transition, whereby the old fairy godmothers lose their powers and the new godmothers come into theirs.

Gabi Stevens has chosen to focus on a different godmother for each novel in the series, and this second book focuses on Regina Scott, or Reggie as she likes to be called, as she gains her godmoth...more Reviewed for Book Chick City
http://www.bookchickcity.com/2012/07/...

AS YOU WISH by Gabi Stevens follows on from THE WISH LIST (review here), continuing the story of the Arcani world during the Time of Transition, whereby the old fairy godmothers lose their powers and the new godmothers come into theirs.

Gabi Stevens has chosen to focus on a different godmother for each novel in the series, and this second book focuses on Regina Scott, or Reggie as she likes to be called, as she gains her godmother powers. Her life is fairly uncomplicated at the beginning of the novel, as she runs an Arcani bakery, despite having no magic of her own. She is somewhat an outsider in her family, as she is only one without magic, and as such is overlooked by her overbearing mother.

Then the godmothers from book one turn up to inform Reggie of her new found calling. However, they are forced to leave straight after she chooses her wand, abandoning Reggie with a whole host of unanswered questions. As she has grown up with the Arcani world around her she is more knowledgeable about magic, and so there is no need for the level of description we had with Kristin in book one. However, one of the problems I had with the first book was that Kristin immediately seemed to know how some magic worked, and with Reggie we get more of a gradual exploration, for example when she first transforms into a sprite:

“They were magnificent. The blue and green shimmered together like jewels. How did they work? Did she simply have to concentrate on where she wanted to go and the wings would take her? Somehow she didn’t think it would be that easy.”

She is left in the capable hands of Nate Citadel, a mysterious diner at her bakery who covers up every aspect of his appearance other than his eyes. He is a friend to Kristin, but there are mysteries surrounding him that mean he might not be helping her for the right reasons.

Similar mystery envelops Jonathan Bastion, a rich wandmaker who is famous in the Arcani world and takes a particular interest in Reggie. They are drawn to each other from the beginning, but there is always the hint that he isn’t who he seems. However, with Jonathan I did feel the slight irritation at his ‘perfect’ looks, especially with Reggie described as average, as this seems to be becoming a common trait in fiction.

Continuing the threat of the first novel, our antagonist appears again under a different name (although it’s clear who he is from the beginning if you’ve read the previous book), trying to convert influential people to his cause. The council has become a problem, as they are desperate to control Reggie after the problems with Kristin in book one, leaving her unsure who to turn to for the most part of the novel.

Overall I liked this book a lot more than the first one, and feel that the series has improved. I now feel like I want to read the next book, whereas before I didn’t mind whether I continued or not. However, I still feel that the antagonist isn’t overly threatening, and he barely featured in this novel at all until the conclusion, which again felt vaguely rushed. I did love the character of Reggie a lot more than Kristin (who does make a cameo appearance in this book), as she is more unsure of herself and felt like someone you could relate to. I’m hoping the last fairy godmother is as exciting as Reggie!
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Apr 27, 2011 Colette rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-romance

Originally posted on A Buckeye Girl Reads As You Wish is a totally sweet Paranormal Romance. It's book two in the Time of Transition series, but it can be read as a stand alone book-but like all books in a series, it helps to read the books in order. :) I just adored this book. It had all the right ingredients-romance, magic, strong hero and heroine and a lovable secondary cast of characters.

Reggie Scott is born into a magical family, but has no magical abilities and instead is happy running he...more Originally posted on A Buckeye Girl Reads As You Wish is a totally sweet Paranormal Romance. It's book two in the Time of Transition series, but it can be read as a stand alone book-but like all books in a series, it helps to read the books in order. :) I just adored this book. It had all the right ingredients-romance, magic, strong hero and heroine and a lovable secondary cast of characters.

Reggie Scott is born into a magical family, but has no magical abilities and instead is happy running her bakery. Then out of the blue, she discovers that she's a fairy godmother. As soon as she is given the news, by the old fairy godmothers, they take off for parts unknown because they are wanted by the Arcani council because of actions that take place in book one. Reggie's left on her own to figure out what it means to be a fairy godmother...she does have a little help from the mysterious Jonathon Bastion, a guy who is really rich from wand making and Nate, a customer from the baker, and of course her family. I think one of the best things about this book was how once Reggie discovered she had magic, her friends, family and the place she worked didn't disappear from the storyline. In so many books, the heroine tries to do everything by herself, and her old way of life just disappears. Not so in this book-they all work to help Reggie out, and it was just refreshing to see.

Along the way of figuring out what powers she actually has a Fairy Godmother, Reggie discovers that the council wants her to swear an oath that she isn't against them because the last new fairy godmother Kristen from book one, tried to warn them that someone was trying to take them over, and they didn't believe her and declared her and the former Fairy Godmothers public enemy number one. Reggie doesn't like how the council is operating, and wants to figure out for herself if Kristen and the Fairy Godmothers really are as bad as the council says they are. Nate and Jonathon both win a place in Reggie's heart as they work with her to figure out if the councils on the up and up. They quickly figure out there is more to the story, and help Reggie to clear Kristen and the former Fairy Godmothers name. The council though, keeps trying to pressure Reggie into pledging her loyalty to them, and she has to keep escaping them...I love how there are a few bad guys in this book, including a familiar evil guy from the first book.

The love story between Reggie and Jonathon is just so well, sweet. I loved how there was actually a romance in this story, and they weren't fighting the whole book. There was some fighting their feelings, but I loved watching them realize how important they were to each other and that there is more to someone then meets the eye. I liked how the whole time you knew something was up with Jonathon-he became friends with Reggie for his own selfish reasons, but it took me awhile to figure out what the reasons were and then I was like "duh" I should've known that. :) Jonathon is one of the few "nice guy" heroes that I actually really liked. Reggie did have some moments that made me go "Oh, Reggie, really?" but they were few and far between.

The secondary characters in this book were wonderful. I'm not sure who I liked more-Alfred the gruff gnome who helps out at the bakery when Reggie has to concentrate on her magic, Sophronia who is her mothers fiercest rival who is to judge if Reggie is fit to become a Fairy Godmother or not (she's just so fun not to like) or Tommy and Joy, Reggie's co-workers who have disabilities, and are very loyal to Reggie. I just love how their characters were written The former Fairy Godmothers are hilarious, and I love how they just drop bombshells and then take off again. I also really liked how Kristen and Tennyson from the last book make an appearance, but don't overtake the storyline. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I loved everyone. :)

While I liked book one in the series, The Wish List, I just adored As You Wish and can't wait for the next book in this series.

Curran Crush Meter: Medium
Martini Sigh Meter: Medium
Ethan/Merit Sizzle Meter: Medium
Finnalicious Side Kick Meter: High
Barrons Hero Hotness Meter: Medium(less)

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Dec 24, 2012 Book Chick City rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance-paranormal

Reviewed by Rebecca for www.BookChickCity.com - 3.5 Star on the blog.

AS YOU WISH by Gabi Stevens follows on from The Wish List, continuing the story of the Arcani world during the Time of Transition, whereby the old fairy godmothers lose their powers and the new godmothers come into theirs.

Gabi Stevens has chosen to focus on a different godmother for each novel in the series, and this second book focuses on Regina Scott, or Reggie as she likes to be called, as she gains her godmother powers. Her...more Reviewed by Rebecca for www.BookChickCity.com - 3.5 Star on the blog.

AS YOU WISH by Gabi Stevens follows on from The Wish List, continuing the story of the Arcani world during the Time of Transition, whereby the old fairy godmothers lose their powers and the new godmothers come into theirs.

Gabi Stevens has chosen to focus on a different godmother for each novel in the series, and this second book focuses on Regina Scott, or Reggie as she likes to be called, as she gains her godmother powers. Her life is fairly uncomplicated at the beginning of the novel, as she runs an Arcani bakery, despite having no magic of her own. She is somewhat an outsider in her family, as she is only one without magic, and as such is overlooked by her overbearing mother.

Then the godmothers from book one turn up to inform Reggie of her new found calling. However, they are forced to leave straight after she chooses her wand, abandoning Reggie with a whole host of unanswered questions. As she has grown up with the Arcani world around her she is more knowledgeable about magic, and so there is no need for the level of description we had with Kristin in book one. However, one of the problems I had with the first book was that Kristin immediately seemed to know how some magic worked, and with Reggie we get more of a gradual exploration, for example when she first transforms into a sprite:

They were magnificent. The blue and green shimmered together like jewels. How did they work? Did she simply have to concentrate on where she wanted to go and the wings would take her? Somehow she didn’t think it would be that easy.

She is left in the capable hands of Nate Citadel, a mysterious diner at her bakery who covers up every aspect of his appearance other than his eyes. He is a friend to Kristin, but there are mysteries surrounding him that mean he might not be helping her for the right reasons.

Similar mystery envelops Jonathan Bastion, a rich wandmaker who is famous in the Arcani world and takes a particular interest in Reggie. They are drawn to each other from the beginning, but there is always the hint that he isn’t who he seems. However, with Jonathan I did feel the slight irritation at his ‘perfect’ looks, especially with Reggie described as average, as this seems to be becoming a common trait in fiction.

Continuing the threat of the first novel, our antagonist appears again under a different name (although it’s clear who he is from the beginning if you’ve read the previous book), trying to convert influential people to his cause. The council has become a problem, as they are desperate to control Reggie after the problems with Kristin in book one, leaving her unsure who to turn to for the most part of the novel.

Overall I liked this book a lot more than the first one, and feel that the series has improved. I now feel like I want to read the next book, whereas before I didn’t mind whether I continued or not. However, I still feel that the antagonist isn’t overly threatening, and he barely featured in this novel at all until the conclusion, which again felt vaguely rushed. I did love the character of Reggie a lot more than Kristin (who does make a cameo appearance in this book), as she is more unsure of herself and felt like someone you could relate to. I’m hoping the last fairy godmother is as exciting as Reggie!

VERDICT:

I liked AS YOU WISH better than its predecessor, and feel that it made a great improvement to the series. Reggie is an intriguing heroine, and one that can be related to, whilst the plot is fast-paced and action-packed. The romance twist is slightly unconventional, and this book sets up the last in the series nicely, and I’m interested to see who the next godmother will be!(less)

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Jul 09, 2012 Diane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

If you love strong female leads, especially when they are put into situations they are not fully prepared for (in this case, a magical world where the first new fairy godmother is considered a rogue and the council now wants to exert some "control" over them), then you'll probably enjoy this book.

This is second in the Time of Transition series where the new fairy godmothers come into their power and are supposed be guided somewhat by the outgoing godmothers as well as an arbiter from the magical...more If you love strong female leads, especially when they are put into situations they are not fully prepared for (in this case, a magical world where the first new fairy godmother is considered a rogue and the council now wants to exert some "control" over them), then you'll probably enjoy this book.

This is second in the Time of Transition series where the new fairy godmothers come into their power and are supposed be guided somewhat by the outgoing godmothers as well as an arbiter from the magical community. In the first book, The Wish List, Kristin was the new godmother, had been born and raised as a "normal" human, but came into her magic when she chose her wand. Along the way, she and her arbiter found out some not so nice facts about the ruling council, as well as encountering the son of a former godmother who definitely when on the wrong side!

As You Wish picks up the story where Regina is born of a magical family, but has no apparent magical abilities and is somewhat of an embarassment to the rest of her family. She runs a bakery with two magical people who happen to have developmental disabilities, but are wonders with baked goods (love Tommy and Joy, you pretty much fall for them in their first appearance!). She has her daily early customer who has become a friend of sorts, Nate.

When she learns she is now a fairy godmother, she is sent help for the bakery in the form of gnome named Alfred who always seems abrupt with Regina, but is gentle & caring and wins over Tommy and Joy right away!

Regina's arbiter though, is a council member that is also Regina's mother Cordelia's greatest rival, in their few visits, it is clear that the council wants to control the godmother, have her swear loyalty to them even though they are supposed to be liasions between the magical world and the human world and while they are chosen by magic, the council gets final say in whether they are "worthy"....makes you wonder what the council do if they find none of them worthy!

Jonathon Bastion is a friend of Nate's, who quickly becomes a friend and possibly more for Regina, but along the way, there are a lot of secrets revealed, borrowed, or flat out stolen, questions of trust - people, godmothers, councils and friends alike. There is adventure, humor, romance, surprises....and there is a third book as it's part of a trilogy!

I'm looking forward to Wishful Thinking and what adventures Stormy goes through as the third new godmother and as I said, if you like strong female leads, this is a great series!(less)

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Mar 20, 2012 Maggie Montgomery rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Now that was just fun. I thought the fairy godmother story line was pretty stellar from the get-go, and I am inexplicably drawn to trilogies. Kind of like how lists of three have a near-magical ability to convince. Don't ask; I'm weird. Anyway, add in the fact that I sat in on a conference session by the author and her views on literature clicked with me, and the fact that I thought the first book in the series was pretty fun, and you get a predisposition to enjoy this book. But I honestly didn'...more Now that was just fun. I thought the fairy godmother story line was pretty stellar from the get-go, and I am inexplicably drawn to trilogies. Kind of like how lists of three have a near-magical ability to convince. Don't ask; I'm weird. Anyway, add in the fact that I sat in on a conference session by the author and her views on literature clicked with me, and the fact that I thought the first book in the series was pretty fun, and you get a predisposition to enjoy this book. But I honestly didn't think I was going to like it as much as I did.

To begin with, I *adore* triumphant misfits and this book has them in spades -- from the cursed hero to the heroine who spent years in special ed because she couldn't perform magic (hello, brilliant concept, nice to meet you), to a host of highly-capable but underestimated supporting characters. It's a veritable buffet of "how d'ya like me now?" moments. Yet it never gets preachy or soap-boxy or trite. Nice.

Furthermore, I admit to a minor infatuation with the Beauty and the Beast tale in all its iterations. This one was no different and I dig the spin she put on it.

On another, possibly stranger topic, I have to comment on the sex scenes. I'm not a huge fan of euphemism, which is why I write what I write, and I prefer my love scenes a bit more explicit than traditional mainstream. That said, Gabi does leave the door open, which a lot of mainstream romance writers hesitate to do, and it adds to the story. At the same time, there's something innately innocent about the idea of fairy godmothers. The juxtaposition of sex and innocence could have been jarring, but it worked really well.

And finally, to the writing, itself. It flows nicely and the dialog feels natural. You can tell Gabi's more comfortable with her characters and her world in this book. While it's clearly a paranormal, I had a tendency to forget that the world she's created isn't really real. And though it's clearly a romance, it isn't quite so laden with genre-typical devices as most. No over-obsessing over the hero's motives, no obviously-contrived dark moment. It left me refreshed and interested in the final book in the series... and hoping the author might get the urge to turn out a few super-fun short stories about the adventures of the new godmothers once the trilogy is complete.(less)

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May 27, 2011 TheBookVixen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2011, c-b

Why I Read this Book: After reading The Wish List (read review here), I couldn’t wait to continue the journey of discovering the other two new Fairy Godmothers. I was excited to find out what was going to happen in the Arcani world and to see what was going on with Kristin.

What I Liked: I love these characters (well, the good ones). I enjoyed reading Reggie’s story as much as I did Kristin’s. It was fun to watch as she was trying on her magic skills. I knew there was something fishy going on wit...more

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Mar 02, 2011 Kelli (I'd So Rather Be Reading) rated it 4 of 5 stars

I liked The Wish List, book one in the Time of Transition series, a lot. When Gabi Stevens offered me a review copy of As You Wish, I was super excited and honored. But I was a little worried I would miss Kristin and Tennyson, since I fell in love with them during The Wish List. I was so happy that they were featured in As You Wish right alongside Reggie! Don't get me wrong, As You Wish is definitely Reggie's story, but Kristin and Tennyson are a part of the story too. I was surprised that I lik...more I liked The Wish List, book one in the Time of Transition series, a lot. When Gabi Stevens offered me a review copy of As You Wish, I was super excited and honored. But I was a little worried I would miss Kristin and Tennyson, since I fell in love with them during The Wish List. I was so happy that they were featured in As You Wish right alongside Reggie! Don't get me wrong, As You Wish is definitely Reggie's story, but Kristin and Tennyson are a part of the story too. I was surprised that I liked Reggie just as much as Tennyson. She is smart, kind, loyal and spunky.

Gabi Stevens writes with an attention to detail that I just love. My favorite thing about The Wish List was her characterization of Kristin. I really identified with Kristin and just love clicking with a character like that. In As You Wish, my favorite characters were Joy, Tommy, and Alf. Reggie's relationship with Joy and Tommy really made the book for me. I loved the diversification of the characters.

Stevens does an excellent job at balancing humor, romance, and intrigue along with a well-thought out story line. Reggie's interactions with her family were funny. I loved the antics of Reggie's mom and sister and found them very believable. The three fairy godmothers were not as central to the plot as they were in The Wish List, something that I missed a little. I love reading about the godmothers and would have liked to see more of them.

The romance between Reggie and her leading men was very sweet. I loved the development of the relationships and the build-up to the love story. I was hoping for another happy ending and was not disappointed!
Just One Gripe:
I missed the three godmothers but got my comic relief from Reggie's family.

The Best Thing About This Book:
It was a well-rounded, well-written story with lovable characters, a great plot and happy ending. What's not to like about that?

Appropriate for a younger audience:
No, there is definitely some romance and scenes inappropriate for a YA audience.

Score:
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 4/5
Setting/Imagery: 4/5
Originality: 4/5
Ending: 5/5
Total Score: 22/25(less)

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May 03, 2011 Larissa rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: arc, to-review

Previously Published on my blog: Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars!

*Minor spoilers from the previous book in the series

The Wish List introduced us to the world of the arcani and we got to read about Kristin’s rise to Fairy Godmother status and her and Tennyson’s adventures in trying to stop a nefarious plot, by a terrible villain, to take over both magic and human world.

However, everything has it’s consequences and in this case it was Kristin and Tennyson' becoming fugi...more Previously Published on my blog: Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars!

*Minor spoilers from the previous book in the series

The Wish List introduced us to the world of the arcani and we got to read about Kristin’s rise to Fairy Godmother status and her and Tennyson’s adventures in trying to stop a nefarious plot, by a terrible villain, to take over both magic and human world.

However, everything has it’s consequences and in this case it was Kristin and Tennyson' becoming fugitives, since the magic council didn’t really believe their story.

Now it is time for the second Fairy Godmother to be revealed and it is none other than Reggie, a woman born into a magical family but that until now believe she has no power of her own.

All Reggie wanted to do was run her small but successful bakery alongside her very special friend Joy and Tommy. But the universe has other plans for her when it puts a very mysterious man in her life and throws her right into our villains world-dominating plans.

As You Wish is a great sequel to The Wish List and just as good as its predecessor. I did have a few problems with it, though. I felt that there was a bit of a lack of consistency when it came to Kristin. I mean, there was a point where I had already seen her use a certain power and when a situation presented itself where that power was perfect, it wasn’t even mentioned.

I did enjoy the hero and I liked how Gabi Stevens kept us guessing, even though I pretty much guessed the secret early on in the story and I think that it might have been best to unveil it before she did.

My favorite part in this book was hands down Joy and Tommy at the bakery. They were simply awesome and Gabi did a superb job in writing these characters.

All in all the time of transition series is a pretty good one, not mind blowing, but definitely entertaining and compelling, mainly because of such vivid characters.

I can’t wait for book three and find out more about the third Fairy Godmother!(less)

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Apr 23, 2011 Laurie (Bitten by Paranormal Romance) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-romance, requests

As You Wish has magic, danger and mystery. I enjoyed the magical world Gabi created, it was very easy to read and understand how all of this magic works. As You Wish is a great story, I just wish it was more on the romance side.

Jonathan is two different people, so to speak. He lives as Tate during the day and Jonathan by night. He has to because of a curse. I did like the mystery behind the curse, but I didn’t like how it interrupted the romance between him and Reggie. Reggie is with her friend...more

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Jun 17, 2012 Karen Helmle rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

These are fun and light. I didn't looooove them but I did enjoy them. Each of the three books in the series were about the main character becoming a Fairy Godmother. The main characters in each of the stories were pretty formulaic, by the time I got to the third book, I knew what was going to happen, but I think she's a new writer so I think she did a pretty good job.

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Oct 10, 2010 Darynda Jones rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Apr 23, 2011 Sharon rated it 3 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Time of Transition Trilogy.

The cover of this book got my attention and the blurb sealed the deal, but it wasn’t the story for me. There is nothing wrong with the story, matter of fact it has a cool premise. There is a world of magic, Arcani, that is separate and hidden from our world. It is a modern fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast, but with fairy godmothers.

The characters just didn’t connect with me

read rest of the review:

http://www.loveromancepassion.com/rev.....more

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Mar 14, 2013 Angelique rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A surprisingly enjoyable read, though it was a little predictable at points. I did enjoy how the author infused the magical world with the regular, plus have to admit Reggie was one of the better heroines I've read recently. I will definitely being look into more by her, including the first book in the series which I somehow missed.

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Oct 13, 2011 La-Tessa Montgomery rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal

Great read. Fun & fast paced. I started out w/ book #2 and was able to follow along well. Liked the world the author created. I found it interesting and can't wait to learn more about it and what's going on. Off to snag book #1 in the series.

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Apr 09, 2012 Mary rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, magic

The second book in the Time of Transition series "As You Wish" was again an excellent, magical and funny read.
The story was this time very Beauty-and-the-Beast..ish. I loved it! =)
The heroine was very likable and Gabi Stevens created again wonderful supporting characters - such as Alfred the gnome or the three retired Fairy Godmothers.
I recommend this book to everyone who likes paranormal romance / suspense filled with lots of magic and great characters.

My rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars

Time of Tr...more

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Jul 11, 2011 Lori rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This is the 2nd book in a series about the new fairy Godmothers; the first book is The Wish List and I thought this book was an improvement over the first in the series. A cute, fun read.

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Aug 25, 2011 Lisa rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I bought this book on a whim. Borders going out of business sale. Cute story. I didn't know what to expect, but it was an original story.

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Aug 24, 2011 Karin rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Yet another wonderful book from Gabi Stevens! It was very "Beauty and the Beast" meets "Sleeping Beauty." I love the concept of fairy godmothers. She allowed the new characters to meet the old ones without allowing the old to overpower the story. It was a nice little vignette.

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Sep 04, 2012 Kristina Franken rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I highly recommend this book for anyone

FTC: I received a free copy of this book and was not reimbursed in any other way.

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Apr 29, 2012 Mona Karel rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Yep, another fun read in an entertaining series. Looking forward to the third book, but not to the end of the series.

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Jul 09, 2011 Angie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: first-reads

This was a good second story in the series. The characters were nicely developed. I liked Reggie's character alot. The Nate/Jonathan character was a nice little twist All in all, the story seemed to progress well. I am looking forward to Stormy's story in the next book and to see how all the new fairy godmother's do together.

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Sep 09, 2012 Kara rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: witches, modern-magic, california

Excellent second book in a trilogy. Does not suffer from sophomore slump like some middle books can- the story stands on it's own merit and doesn't serve solely to set up the third book!

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Mar 20, 2012 Tera rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Fun! Can't wait to ready the next one.

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Apr 20, 2013 Abby rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: own, romance, paranormal

Enjoyable. Unlike other romances, this one does have a continuing story arc. This is apparently the second book, but that didn't lessen my enjoyment. I'll have to pick up the other two.
There were places where the writing was a bit unsophisticated, and I spent a good amount of time groaning over how OBVIOUS many twists were.
But honestly? I didn't care, because I liked the characters, especially Nate and Jonathan. Good take on a classic theme.
Recommended for light reading that makes you smile.

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title link	preview: As You Wish
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As You Wish (Time of Transition #2)

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