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Matchmaker #1
The Matchmaker's Mark
When you're 'more' than human, finding your soulmate isn't as easy as answering a few quesitons online. It's best to track down Campbell Consulting, a.k.a. the Matchmaker.
In Charleston, South Carolina half-elf Lily has a birthmark her elders vow is a mystical promise of true love. So far she's yet to encounter Mr. Right in either the elf or human realms.
Dare, a wood elf, has led the Matchmaker's security team for years. In town on a simple errand, when the Matchmaker disappears his future is turned inside out.
And Amy Campbell is a completely human English professor about to discover the true magic of the family business...
In Charleston, South Carolina half-elf Lily has a birthmark her elders vow is a mystical promise of true love. So far she's yet to encounter Mr. Right in either the elf or human realms.
Dare, a wood elf, has led the Matchmaker's security team for years. In town on a simple errand, when the Matchmaker disappears his future is turned inside out.
And Amy Campbell is a completely human English professor about to discover the true magic of the family business...
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2011
5 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
Regan Black
235 books570 followersRegan Black, a USA Today bestselling author, writes award-winning, action-packed romantic novels featuring kick-butt heroines and the sexy heroes who fall in love with them. She and her husband currently enjoy the empty-nest life in the South Carolina Lowcountry where the rich blend of legend, romance, and history fuels her imagination.
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Get a free read: http://reganblack.com/perks
All books: https://www.reganblack.com/all-books/
Amazon: http://bit.ly/2eYabBI
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 2, 2012
There is much going on in this story, but it's not difficult to follow.
It's set in Charleston and revolves around Amy, a guest English professor at the local college; Lily, the local florist (and half wood elf); and Dare, security detail for the Matchmaker (who is also Amy's Aunt.) Lily was born with a mark that her family always called a Matchmaker's mark, but has not yet found that special someone. Amy is a human just beginning to scratch the surface of her Aunt's letters and legacy, on the cusp of finding out just how magical the world is. Dare has disappointed his family by choosing to be part of security to the Matchmaker instead of settling down and carrying on the family line.
Fate has her own ideas, and intertwines their lives in unexpected ways...
It was an entertaining story, I didn't have any trouble wanting to read it. The description of Charleston was lovely, I felt like I was right there walking down the streets with the characters. It really built the story in a lovely way, little bits here, little bits there... things that you thought were just 'background color' fall together into the overall story. I really liked it overall.
.. But I didn't love it. By the end, especially the last chapter or so, I was frustrated with one of the main characters. Getting her to admit that she was in love and just be happy was like pulling teeth. It's like I had to fight tooth and claw to get that Happily Ever After. I still enjoyed it, but it's not going to be in future reading rotation with my favorites. I'm not sure if this is planned as a series, but there were also parts of the story line that felt still unfinished. This could be laying groundwork for future, even spin-off type stories following different characters.
Overall, it is definitely worth picking up and reading but not reached a re-read status for me. If there is another book in the series I would still want to read it, I did enjoy the descriptive storytelling and the world that was created.
It's set in Charleston and revolves around Amy, a guest English professor at the local college; Lily, the local florist (and half wood elf); and Dare, security detail for the Matchmaker (who is also Amy's Aunt.) Lily was born with a mark that her family always called a Matchmaker's mark, but has not yet found that special someone. Amy is a human just beginning to scratch the surface of her Aunt's letters and legacy, on the cusp of finding out just how magical the world is. Dare has disappointed his family by choosing to be part of security to the Matchmaker instead of settling down and carrying on the family line.
Fate has her own ideas, and intertwines their lives in unexpected ways...
It was an entertaining story, I didn't have any trouble wanting to read it. The description of Charleston was lovely, I felt like I was right there walking down the streets with the characters. It really built the story in a lovely way, little bits here, little bits there... things that you thought were just 'background color' fall together into the overall story. I really liked it overall.
.. But I didn't love it. By the end, especially the last chapter or so, I was frustrated with one of the main characters. Getting her to admit that she was in love and just be happy was like pulling teeth. It's like I had to fight tooth and claw to get that Happily Ever After. I still enjoyed it, but it's not going to be in future reading rotation with my favorites. I'm not sure if this is planned as a series, but there were also parts of the story line that felt still unfinished. This could be laying groundwork for future, even spin-off type stories following different characters.
Overall, it is definitely worth picking up and reading but not reached a re-read status for me. If there is another book in the series I would still want to read it, I did enjoy the descriptive storytelling and the world that was created.
January 16, 2012
Amy is from a clan of Campbell women that have held the title of Matchmaker in the paranormal world. She moves in with a friend in Charleston that she is going to be co-teaching a course with. Unbeknownst to her, her aunt is bequeathing the Matchmaker job to her. She sends her body guard Dare, who was an Elite Guard of the elves, to deliver a letter to her and starts the event of Amy's induction to Matchmaker.
While out walking her greyhound she steps into a floral shop and meets the owner Lily, daughter from a union between human and wood elf. With Dare following to deliver the letter, Amy, sets in motion a destined romance between Dare and Lily. With some interference from a werewolf and Lily's brother Cade. Also discovering how Amy takes to being the new Matchmaker.
The book is well written and easy to read. If flows right along, never getting choppy. Her Characters are fully developed and don't leave you wondering why they are behaving the way they do. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more written by Regan Black.
While out walking her greyhound she steps into a floral shop and meets the owner Lily, daughter from a union between human and wood elf. With Dare following to deliver the letter, Amy, sets in motion a destined romance between Dare and Lily. With some interference from a werewolf and Lily's brother Cade. Also discovering how Amy takes to being the new Matchmaker.
The book is well written and easy to read. If flows right along, never getting choppy. Her Characters are fully developed and don't leave you wondering why they are behaving the way they do. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more written by Regan Black.
September 14, 2011
This was a cute novel, a reader who enjoys romance will not be disappointed. The characters are are interesting, the match making part is a unique twist. Lily could get a little bit too inquisitive at times, but she's a likable character. The love interest is charismatic, handsome, and generally a fun character to read about. The reader will enjoy watching their relationship grow and develop.
The author writes very smoothly, there aren't any choppy transitions. The reader will be left with questions, but it can be something to look forward to in the next books. The plot is very intriguing, can't say too much about it without giving something away. The author handles the idea of elves and match-making very well, almost makes the concepts believable to the reader. The ending was sweet and satisfying. This book is recommended to adult readers.
The author writes very smoothly, there aren't any choppy transitions. The reader will be left with questions, but it can be something to look forward to in the next books. The plot is very intriguing, can't say too much about it without giving something away. The author handles the idea of elves and match-making very well, almost makes the concepts believable to the reader. The ending was sweet and satisfying. This book is recommended to adult readers.
September 13, 2011
4 1/2 stars
Lily is content with her life. As half elf/half human, it’s difficult to fit into either world, so owning her own flower shop in Charleston, SC is good for her. She yearns to find her own true love some day, but with over-protective brothers and magic that is unstable at best, she doesn’t hold out much hope.
Dare is a full wood elf who is personal guard to the infamous Matchmaker. His family isn’t thrilled with his job choice, but it works for him. He’s a bit puzzled, and more than a bit put out, when the Matchmaker sends him on a personal errand to hand deliver a letter to her niece, but hey, it’s his job.
Amy is an English teacher. Along with her greyhound Guinness; she is combining work with pleasure by co-teaching a course with her best friend Maeve and staying in her house with her. Who could complain about spending January in Charleston instead of snowy Nebraska? Her whole life she has been receiving cryptic letters from her Aunt Camille that she thinks of as just her aunt being eccentric. She is about to find out that there is more to Aunt Camille’s letters than meets the eye.
Lily, Dare and Amy’s lives are on a collision course that will result in a little romance, a little magic and encounters with all sorts of creatures outside of the human realm.
The Matchmaker’s Mark is a complete turnaround from Ms. Regan’s Justice series. It’s light and fun, full of romance, fantasy and humor. Ms. Regan couldn’t write a bad book if she tried, thankfully she didn’t try. Lilly and Dare live in a world of elves, werewolves, mermaids, trolls and other things that go bump in the night and are comfortable there.
Poor Amy is brought kicking and screaming into this world. She reacts as one would think someone would react when confronted with a world not quite human and I enjoyed that. Dare’s reactions to Amy’s reluctance to believe him are fun to watch and his frustrations with Amy and Maeve are priceless.
Maeve, and Lilly’s brother, Cade, are secondary characters that I enjoyed getting to know and hope to see more of in later books. Lilly starts off as a nice, unassuming type of woman. She slowly builds her confidence in her own ability and when she does, wow. The wonderful town of Charleston is not only a setting for the story but a character in its own right.
I could say all sorts of glowing things about The Matchmaker’s Mark, but the bottom line is, it’s a nice, romantic, mystical journey into a world of fantasy. Anything you could possibly want in a fantasy romance is here; angry werewolves, mermaids with a tude, saucy southern belles, hunky elves, a mysterious setting and a couple of smart women.
There are a few fights (this is Regan Black after all) that are more implied than seen, some sex (not graphic), some good laughs and a sigh or two. I hope there is a sequel in the works because I need to know where Aunt Camille is and how Amy is getting along in her new profession. So why, you might ask, 4 1/2 stars instead of 5? A five star book, for me, has to knock my soaks off, while my shoes may be off the socks are still on and not across the room. Just gives me something to look forward to.
Reviewer for the Paranormal Romance Guild
Lily is content with her life. As half elf/half human, it’s difficult to fit into either world, so owning her own flower shop in Charleston, SC is good for her. She yearns to find her own true love some day, but with over-protective brothers and magic that is unstable at best, she doesn’t hold out much hope.
Dare is a full wood elf who is personal guard to the infamous Matchmaker. His family isn’t thrilled with his job choice, but it works for him. He’s a bit puzzled, and more than a bit put out, when the Matchmaker sends him on a personal errand to hand deliver a letter to her niece, but hey, it’s his job.
Amy is an English teacher. Along with her greyhound Guinness; she is combining work with pleasure by co-teaching a course with her best friend Maeve and staying in her house with her. Who could complain about spending January in Charleston instead of snowy Nebraska? Her whole life she has been receiving cryptic letters from her Aunt Camille that she thinks of as just her aunt being eccentric. She is about to find out that there is more to Aunt Camille’s letters than meets the eye.
Lily, Dare and Amy’s lives are on a collision course that will result in a little romance, a little magic and encounters with all sorts of creatures outside of the human realm.
The Matchmaker’s Mark is a complete turnaround from Ms. Regan’s Justice series. It’s light and fun, full of romance, fantasy and humor. Ms. Regan couldn’t write a bad book if she tried, thankfully she didn’t try. Lilly and Dare live in a world of elves, werewolves, mermaids, trolls and other things that go bump in the night and are comfortable there.
Poor Amy is brought kicking and screaming into this world. She reacts as one would think someone would react when confronted with a world not quite human and I enjoyed that. Dare’s reactions to Amy’s reluctance to believe him are fun to watch and his frustrations with Amy and Maeve are priceless.
Maeve, and Lilly’s brother, Cade, are secondary characters that I enjoyed getting to know and hope to see more of in later books. Lilly starts off as a nice, unassuming type of woman. She slowly builds her confidence in her own ability and when she does, wow. The wonderful town of Charleston is not only a setting for the story but a character in its own right.
I could say all sorts of glowing things about The Matchmaker’s Mark, but the bottom line is, it’s a nice, romantic, mystical journey into a world of fantasy. Anything you could possibly want in a fantasy romance is here; angry werewolves, mermaids with a tude, saucy southern belles, hunky elves, a mysterious setting and a couple of smart women.
There are a few fights (this is Regan Black after all) that are more implied than seen, some sex (not graphic), some good laughs and a sigh or two. I hope there is a sequel in the works because I need to know where Aunt Camille is and how Amy is getting along in her new profession. So why, you might ask, 4 1/2 stars instead of 5? A five star book, for me, has to knock my soaks off, while my shoes may be off the socks are still on and not across the room. Just gives me something to look forward to.
Reviewer for the Paranormal Romance Guild
April 5, 2012
Lily had a special way with flowers. It seemed only natural that she would start her own business as a flower designer. She knew special charms and small spells that would have her customers leaving with a smile as she fulfilled their needs. She had come to terms with her inability to do magic like the rest of her family. She was raised on tales that were suited to the special mark on her arm. The stories included the whispered name of the Matchmaker. But Lily was done with that. She had accepted her fate and choose instead to stay in her mothers world and live the life of a human. She secretly yearned for more, but knew that it was probably out of reach. Until Dare tries to come into her shop.
Dare was on a mission. He had to deliver a letter to the reluctant niece of his employer. She was resisting him, which was an unusual response. Most people were very agreeable in his presence. It must have something to do with this town. He refused to back down on the quest and proceeds to retrace her steps throughout the day. His wanderings bring him towards the local flower shop, which is conveniently closed, but he spies someone moving around inside. Eager to continue in his path he knocks on the door in hopes she'll take pity on him. No such luck. She turns and points to the closed sign. He pleads with her to allow him to come and pick out an arrangement for his mother. Lily shakes her head at the obvious lie but makes her way to the cooler to pull out a sunflower arrangement. She brings it to the door, still not allowing him in, and charges him twenty dollars. But as their hands accidentally brush, they both forget everything.
This book has bits and pieces of the Matchmaker's history, but she really is more like a side story. This book has an array of creatures that jump in and out of it. The mixture makes it quite delightful. You have a girl transitioning into becoming the Matchmaker, while the love story is being played out between Dare and Lily. Its completely hilarious the situations Amy brings about because she doesn't quite grasp the concept of her power or how to control it. She literally becomes a walking embodiment of cupid which draw all kinds of people to her. Dare was a bodyguard to the old Matchmaker, who happened to be Amy's aunt. He tries his best to direct her and teach her about protocol but Amy resists. She refuses to give up her freedom. That's when things really get started. This book was really entertaining, with all sorts of magic, humor, and twists weaved into the plot. Even the pets had an important role to play. Lily was my favorite character. She was very easy to relate to. She never felt good enough and was always trying to over compensate for the things she felt like she lacked. She had a good heart and it was really brought out in her work! In truth all the characters were very well written and completely enjoyable. Even her overbearing brother. It is a sweet light paranormal romance that will have you starry-eyed with its sweetness!
Dare was on a mission. He had to deliver a letter to the reluctant niece of his employer. She was resisting him, which was an unusual response. Most people were very agreeable in his presence. It must have something to do with this town. He refused to back down on the quest and proceeds to retrace her steps throughout the day. His wanderings bring him towards the local flower shop, which is conveniently closed, but he spies someone moving around inside. Eager to continue in his path he knocks on the door in hopes she'll take pity on him. No such luck. She turns and points to the closed sign. He pleads with her to allow him to come and pick out an arrangement for his mother. Lily shakes her head at the obvious lie but makes her way to the cooler to pull out a sunflower arrangement. She brings it to the door, still not allowing him in, and charges him twenty dollars. But as their hands accidentally brush, they both forget everything.
This book has bits and pieces of the Matchmaker's history, but she really is more like a side story. This book has an array of creatures that jump in and out of it. The mixture makes it quite delightful. You have a girl transitioning into becoming the Matchmaker, while the love story is being played out between Dare and Lily. Its completely hilarious the situations Amy brings about because she doesn't quite grasp the concept of her power or how to control it. She literally becomes a walking embodiment of cupid which draw all kinds of people to her. Dare was a bodyguard to the old Matchmaker, who happened to be Amy's aunt. He tries his best to direct her and teach her about protocol but Amy resists. She refuses to give up her freedom. That's when things really get started. This book was really entertaining, with all sorts of magic, humor, and twists weaved into the plot. Even the pets had an important role to play. Lily was my favorite character. She was very easy to relate to. She never felt good enough and was always trying to over compensate for the things she felt like she lacked. She had a good heart and it was really brought out in her work! In truth all the characters were very well written and completely enjoyable. Even her overbearing brother. It is a sweet light paranormal romance that will have you starry-eyed with its sweetness!
February 22, 2012
Delightfully written and empathetic; reading this was like peeking over the shoulders of the characters and being part of each scene and locale. Heartwarming, encouraging, and inspiring, this is just the kind of story readers need to pick themselves up from a slump by getting involved in the characters’ lives and backstory, and marveling at that most welcome touch of the paranormal. I don’t often gravitate to light-hearted romantic fiction, but if this is an example of what I’m missing, I may just have to change my options.
“The Matchmaker’s Mark” has themes that are so totally about magic; but there’s no need for the reader to put aside disbelief. No, the sense of wonder is present from the very first sentence, and continues throughout the book. Magic just “is,” and so there is no surprise to find elves, half-elves, humans, mixed up together; nor to discover a reality, so very much like our own, in which Otherworld soulmates are matched up by “The Matchmaker.”
I wish I had read this book for Valentine’s Day-next year I’ll remember to do so. But don’t worry-“The Matchmaker’s Mark” is perfect reading for any time of year. If you’re looking for paranormal romance, or if you’re just interested because of the fantastic prose, well, get on over here and get this book-it’s a keeper.
“The Matchmaker’s Mark” has themes that are so totally about magic; but there’s no need for the reader to put aside disbelief. No, the sense of wonder is present from the very first sentence, and continues throughout the book. Magic just “is,” and so there is no surprise to find elves, half-elves, humans, mixed up together; nor to discover a reality, so very much like our own, in which Otherworld soulmates are matched up by “The Matchmaker.”
I wish I had read this book for Valentine’s Day-next year I’ll remember to do so. But don’t worry-“The Matchmaker’s Mark” is perfect reading for any time of year. If you’re looking for paranormal romance, or if you’re just interested because of the fantastic prose, well, get on over here and get this book-it’s a keeper.
July 15, 2018
A charming paranormal romantic mystery.
It has a very uplifting and happy tone. All of the characters are very likeable and I was drawn to them.
Amy, a mid-western girl, comes to South Carolina as a temporary faculty member to teach with an old college friend, Maeve. When Maeve suddenly becomes enamored with anything in jeans, Amy gets attacked by a werewolf, and a mysterious wood elf comes knocking, Amy's world suddenly, and forever, changes. As Dare, the wood elf, tries to explain the changes to Amy, he stumbles upon Lily, who quite literally is the girl of his dreams.
There is a slightly mysterious element to the Matchmaker role, who she is/was, and what they do and to the development of Lily’s character as a half-elf/half-human living in South Carolina.
The paranormal elements enchant without distracting the reader. The foundation of the story is solid and there aren’t any choppy parts. There were a couple times at the end that I had to read a couple sentences twice due to my confusion but once I reread them, then read the next sentence/paragraph everything made sense. All-in-all an excellent book.
Please note that this book contains "adult scenes.
It has a very uplifting and happy tone. All of the characters are very likeable and I was drawn to them.
Amy, a mid-western girl, comes to South Carolina as a temporary faculty member to teach with an old college friend, Maeve. When Maeve suddenly becomes enamored with anything in jeans, Amy gets attacked by a werewolf, and a mysterious wood elf comes knocking, Amy's world suddenly, and forever, changes. As Dare, the wood elf, tries to explain the changes to Amy, he stumbles upon Lily, who quite literally is the girl of his dreams.
There is a slightly mysterious element to the Matchmaker role, who she is/was, and what they do and to the development of Lily’s character as a half-elf/half-human living in South Carolina.
The paranormal elements enchant without distracting the reader. The foundation of the story is solid and there aren’t any choppy parts. There were a couple times at the end that I had to read a couple sentences twice due to my confusion but once I reread them, then read the next sentence/paragraph everything made sense. All-in-all an excellent book.
Please note that this book contains "adult scenes.
September 17, 2011
I love Regan Black's darker 2096 novels. The Matchmaker's Mark is her lighter voice and it doesn't disappoint! Magic runs deep in our world and in Matchmaker's Mark we see what happens when the unsuspecting find out they have powers, and find love in the process. This debut novel in the series promises a fun ride. Can't wait for the next installment!
September 11, 2011
4.5 Stars...See Dual Review SHE SAID / SHE SAID to be posted shortly to www.paranormalromanceguild.com Dual review
August 11, 2012
The Matchmaker’s Mark is an urban fantasy set in Charleston, South Carolina. Lily, a half-elf, half-human, works as a florist trying to find her way in a human society that she doesn’t completely belong in. During a busy day at her shop, Lily encounters two customers that will disrupt the calm life she had made for herself – Amy Campbell and Dare, a handsome wood elf.
Amy Campbell is the new matchmaker, a human with the ability to create romantic matches for those who request them. Amy resists the fact that she has apparently inherited this role from her aunt and does not believe that she is in danger from other magical creates that want to use her powers.
Dare, is a wood elf that was part of Amy’s aunt’s security detail. Having lost the previous matchmaker he has to protect Amy until a new security team can be formed. Unfortunately, he doesn’t bargain on meeting Lily, who he has dreamed of since he was a child. The problem is, Lily has a matchmaker’s mark on her arm, meaning that Lily is meant for someone other than Dare, forcing him to shove his feelings aside.
Danger ensures in the form of a disgruntled werewolf who has been accidently marked by the matchmaker. Both Amy and Lily need protection and Dare must decide where his loyalty lies.
I quite enjoyed this light fantasy, romance read. The characters were all interesting and I liked the world building that the author created for the novel. I can certainly see this becoming a series as there were quite a lot of unresolved issues with the book, namely where the previous matchmaker has disappeared to and the fact that Amy’s friend Maeve has been matched with the werewolf. The romance aspect of the novel between Dare and Lily was sweet, although I found Lily’s reluctance to be a little drawn out towards the end. Overall, I enjoyed the book and I will be looking out for more books by this author.
Amy Campbell is the new matchmaker, a human with the ability to create romantic matches for those who request them. Amy resists the fact that she has apparently inherited this role from her aunt and does not believe that she is in danger from other magical creates that want to use her powers.
Dare, is a wood elf that was part of Amy’s aunt’s security detail. Having lost the previous matchmaker he has to protect Amy until a new security team can be formed. Unfortunately, he doesn’t bargain on meeting Lily, who he has dreamed of since he was a child. The problem is, Lily has a matchmaker’s mark on her arm, meaning that Lily is meant for someone other than Dare, forcing him to shove his feelings aside.
Danger ensures in the form of a disgruntled werewolf who has been accidently marked by the matchmaker. Both Amy and Lily need protection and Dare must decide where his loyalty lies.
I quite enjoyed this light fantasy, romance read. The characters were all interesting and I liked the world building that the author created for the novel. I can certainly see this becoming a series as there were quite a lot of unresolved issues with the book, namely where the previous matchmaker has disappeared to and the fact that Amy’s friend Maeve has been matched with the werewolf. The romance aspect of the novel between Dare and Lily was sweet, although I found Lily’s reluctance to be a little drawn out towards the end. Overall, I enjoyed the book and I will be looking out for more books by this author.
October 24, 2011
Matchmaker’s Mark hit the mark. It was a lighthearted story with plenty of humor, paranormal, and romance. The main characters were elves but that was not all that was thrown into the mix. There was a werewolf, mermaid, and a new matchmaker learning how to use her magic. Which brings us to the problem. The matchmaker has gone missing and her powers have transferred to her niece, Amy. Amy doesn’t realize that she now has the matchmaker’s magic and inadvertently marks a werewolf and a halfing elf. The werewolf is none too pleased with being marked and wants to find the matchmaker. The halfing elf, Lilly, doesn’t have faith in her abilities as an elf and chooses to live in the human world as a florist. Dare, a wood elf, is the matchmaker’s bodyguard sent to deliver a letter to Amy. Once around Amy he starts to realize that Amy now has the power of the matchmaker. Dare decides to stick close to Amy until a replacement bodyguard can be sent. Meanwhile, Dare literally comes in contact with the woman of his dreams, Lilly. He has a lot of convincing to do if he wants Lilly to believe that his love for her is real and not a result of magic.
This book was a great read. Regan Black did a great job bringing these characters to life. I am looking forward to reading more about the matchmaker since I understand that this is part of a series. There were some things I was left questioning and hope to get those questions answered with more books. I recommend this book to all romance readers.
This book was a great read. Regan Black did a great job bringing these characters to life. I am looking forward to reading more about the matchmaker since I understand that this is part of a series. There were some things I was left questioning and hope to get those questions answered with more books. I recommend this book to all romance readers.
February 15, 2014
Author Regan Black creates an intriguing mythology peopled with elves, werewolves, magical matchmakers and more, and sets it all against a background of a very real Charleston, with beautiful descriptions clear enough to make me long to visit. The matchmaker, of course, is someone who matches people (and others) to their true loves. But the protagonist, a Halfling, can’t find romance since she can’t find herself. Instead she offers hints of magic through flowers as she hides away in a Charleston florist’s store.
The story moves swiftly, adding characters and mysteries as the plot progresses. Who is the strange mermaid? Why has Amy kept her aunt’s letters? And what propelled Lily into the human world? Not all these questions will be answered, but enough is shown as the story progresses to give depth and the promise of more in a series to come, and the story itself is nicely complete.
I really enjoyed the use of letters to provide hidden information. And the contrast, between Amy’s swift acceptance of the unseen and Halfling Lily’s pretense at normality, is nicely drawn. It’s a romance that keeps you reading and guessing, smoothly written, sensual, lighthearted and fun. And it’s a world well worth revisiting in the rest of the series.
Disclosure: I met the author online and was pleased to find a free ecopy of the novel.
The story moves swiftly, adding characters and mysteries as the plot progresses. Who is the strange mermaid? Why has Amy kept her aunt’s letters? And what propelled Lily into the human world? Not all these questions will be answered, but enough is shown as the story progresses to give depth and the promise of more in a series to come, and the story itself is nicely complete.
I really enjoyed the use of letters to provide hidden information. And the contrast, between Amy’s swift acceptance of the unseen and Halfling Lily’s pretense at normality, is nicely drawn. It’s a romance that keeps you reading and guessing, smoothly written, sensual, lighthearted and fun. And it’s a world well worth revisiting in the rest of the series.
Disclosure: I met the author online and was pleased to find a free ecopy of the novel.
September 9, 2011
In my opinion, Regan Black has a winner with THE MATCHMAKER’S MARK. It’s a fun paranormal romance, the first book in a new series. The matchmaker’s mark is a magical mark that identifies individuals meant to be together. I loved how the romance progressed between Dare and Lily, although I did get a bit frustrated with Lily at times because she was so reluctant to believe. I also enjoyed the progression of the story of the matchmaker. We get a brief glimpse of a new matchmaker in the making, leaving us with a number of questions. Where is the former matchmaker and what happened to her? And we just barely get introduced to Grant Barclay, an angry werewolf, and Mac – a guardian, perhaps? I think there are some interesting stories to come!
If you are looking for an entertaining and light-hearted read, THE MATCHMAKER’S MARK is for you. It is a love story with a hint of mystery, a dose of magic and a promise of more to come. There is a good, even pace to the story that makes you want to just keep turning the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to more in the series. The book was provided to me, by the author, for review as a beta reader.
If you are looking for an entertaining and light-hearted read, THE MATCHMAKER’S MARK is for you. It is a love story with a hint of mystery, a dose of magic and a promise of more to come. There is a good, even pace to the story that makes you want to just keep turning the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to more in the series. The book was provided to me, by the author, for review as a beta reader.
September 18, 2011
We’ve all heard stories of the matchmaker. What if there was an actual person with the magical ability to match you with your soulmate. How would you like to be her? Amy Campbell, an English professor, suddenly finds herself in this exact predicament. What ensues is a comical and romantic adventure for all the magical and normal people that she meets. The story centers itself on the life of a half-elf girl named Lily and what happens to her when she meets the new Matchmaker and a wood elf named Dare. You will laugh, cry, and cheer at all the things that happen to them. And you won’t want to wait to get the next installment to see what other havoc the new Matchmaker wreaks as she learns to control her new powers.
I found this book to be a nice, light-hearted read and I will definitely read the next in the series. This book was sent to me by the author for review.
I found this book to be a nice, light-hearted read and I will definitely read the next in the series. This book was sent to me by the author for review.
January 19, 2012
My rating is 4.5
Lily's life is content but far from perfect - her brothers are over-protective and her magic is just 'meh'....or so she believes. When a moment's strange encounter causes her birthmark to itch and burn, Lily's magic suddenly takes on a whole new dimension and her hopes for the future are now a possibility.
I loved The Matchmaker's Mark from the start because it was upbeat and light-hearted. This is a book I will curl up with again when I'm feeling down or blah. It just made me happy. Sounds trite? I don't care. I loved the story (it's refreshing after so much drama!), the characters (I'll take Dare any day of the week!), and the southern setting (Charleston is a gorgeous city!).
I highly recommend this book anyone who loves romance, a light-hearted read, and paranormal settings. It's a win-win all the way around.
Lily's life is content but far from perfect - her brothers are over-protective and her magic is just 'meh'....or so she believes. When a moment's strange encounter causes her birthmark to itch and burn, Lily's magic suddenly takes on a whole new dimension and her hopes for the future are now a possibility.
I loved The Matchmaker's Mark from the start because it was upbeat and light-hearted. This is a book I will curl up with again when I'm feeling down or blah. It just made me happy. Sounds trite? I don't care. I loved the story (it's refreshing after so much drama!), the characters (I'll take Dare any day of the week!), and the southern setting (Charleston is a gorgeous city!).
I highly recommend this book anyone who loves romance, a light-hearted read, and paranormal settings. It's a win-win all the way around.
October 4, 2011
The Matchmaker's Mark
By, Regan Black
This was a wonderful book; I was not sure what to exspect from it. This is the first book of Regan Black’s that I have read. Im sure to be checking out more of her books after this one!
I am a paranormal lover, well a book lover in all ways that count. Paranormal romance is one of my favorites. The Characters where quit wonderful, how it is written it bring everything together with great twist and turns. Very unique and was more then I was hoping for.
If you enjoy Romance this is the book for you.
I just wanted to thank Regan Black for giving me a chance to review her bookJ
Happy Reading everyone!!
By, Regan Black
This was a wonderful book; I was not sure what to exspect from it. This is the first book of Regan Black’s that I have read. Im sure to be checking out more of her books after this one!
I am a paranormal lover, well a book lover in all ways that count. Paranormal romance is one of my favorites. The Characters where quit wonderful, how it is written it bring everything together with great twist and turns. Very unique and was more then I was hoping for.
If you enjoy Romance this is the book for you.
I just wanted to thank Regan Black for giving me a chance to review her bookJ
Happy Reading everyone!!
September 29, 2011
Thoroughly enjoyed it.If you want something light and cheery, this is it.
Couldn't put it down, from start to finish.
Definetely not "Tracking shadows", since it's in a lighter, happier vein, but it is worth every cent. Especially, if you like to read paranormals with alot of wit. The characters are charming and delightfully witty.
Love the characters of Amy, Dare, Lilly and even Cade and Maeve.
Can't wait to see what else will happen to them next.
Couldn't put it down, from start to finish.
Definetely not "Tracking shadows", since it's in a lighter, happier vein, but it is worth every cent. Especially, if you like to read paranormals with alot of wit. The characters are charming and delightfully witty.
Love the characters of Amy, Dare, Lilly and even Cade and Maeve.
Can't wait to see what else will happen to them next.
August 29, 2012
4.5/5 Stars, full review to follow.
September 8, 2020
The story unwinds - Lily, Amy, Dare, Cade (Lily's brother), Maeve, a werewolf and a whole host of others!
This fun story of lives intertwined and love finding it's 'Mark'!! I really cannot say any more without giving away this absolutely WONDERFUL story that I could not stop reading!!! The history filled setting of Charleston and all the descriptions have me looking to make a visit there soon!!
You have drama, so much humor, mystery and some really good 'nookie'!!!
I am compelled to purchase and start to read the next book in this 2 book series and hope Regan breaks down and adds to it!! Totally grabbed me and would not let go!!!!
This fun story of lives intertwined and love finding it's 'Mark'!! I really cannot say any more without giving away this absolutely WONDERFUL story that I could not stop reading!!! The history filled setting of Charleston and all the descriptions have me looking to make a visit there soon!!
You have drama, so much humor, mystery and some really good 'nookie'!!!
I am compelled to purchase and start to read the next book in this 2 book series and hope Regan breaks down and adds to it!! Totally grabbed me and would not let go!!!!
August 29, 2023
I liked this quite a bit. The balance between the magical and non-magical characters, and how the story unfolded, was nicely done.
August 29, 2012
4 STARS
This book actually has two stories that are both the first book in a series.
The first story is The Matchmaker's Mark.
Lily is half elf who owns a flower shop. She has a mark on her arm that means she will have a soul mate. But so far she has not found him in either world. Because elves do not like halfings she has chosen to live Charleston, South Carolina in the human world. She does not have much magic.
Amy Campbell is a English Professor that is in Charleston to teach a class. She can't wait till she can spend time at the beach. Weird things are happening around her. That started when she gets a letter from her Aunt who travels a lot in a consulting business.
Dare is a wood-elf who has been with the matchmaker for years as part of her security force. But he has been sent to deliver a letter to Amy. He realizes his boss has disappeared. He wants to make sure Amy stays safe till she gets the book and her own security force.
Thier is a werewolf who gets marked and does not want it. He hurts Amy but Dare gets her away. The werewolf is determined to find the matchmaker again.
This was a fun novel. Thier is a couple of love scenes in the book. I would read more of this series of novel.
Justice Incarnate BY Regan Black 4 STARS
This is a darker series and this is the first book of that series.
Jaden is a security expert and she keeps being reborn. She is always raped before she is 14 and branded by the same man of power in each life who rapes many girls before she ends up killing him. Then her love who is always the law does not believe her and arrests her for murder over and over. The Judge remembers each time. So does Jaden a little bit till after her rape and then she remembers more. She wants to stop him for all time somehow.
In this time period sugar and caffine are illegal.
I was given this ebook to read in return for honest review from Netgalley.
08/01/2012 PUB Getaway Reads, LLC Imprint Paco Media Group 209 pages
This book actually has two stories that are both the first book in a series.
The first story is The Matchmaker's Mark.
Lily is half elf who owns a flower shop. She has a mark on her arm that means she will have a soul mate. But so far she has not found him in either world. Because elves do not like halfings she has chosen to live Charleston, South Carolina in the human world. She does not have much magic.
Amy Campbell is a English Professor that is in Charleston to teach a class. She can't wait till she can spend time at the beach. Weird things are happening around her. That started when she gets a letter from her Aunt who travels a lot in a consulting business.
Dare is a wood-elf who has been with the matchmaker for years as part of her security force. But he has been sent to deliver a letter to Amy. He realizes his boss has disappeared. He wants to make sure Amy stays safe till she gets the book and her own security force.
Thier is a werewolf who gets marked and does not want it. He hurts Amy but Dare gets her away. The werewolf is determined to find the matchmaker again.
This was a fun novel. Thier is a couple of love scenes in the book. I would read more of this series of novel.
Justice Incarnate BY Regan Black 4 STARS
This is a darker series and this is the first book of that series.
Jaden is a security expert and she keeps being reborn. She is always raped before she is 14 and branded by the same man of power in each life who rapes many girls before she ends up killing him. Then her love who is always the law does not believe her and arrests her for murder over and over. The Judge remembers each time. So does Jaden a little bit till after her rape and then she remembers more. She wants to stop him for all time somehow.
In this time period sugar and caffine are illegal.
I was given this ebook to read in return for honest review from Netgalley.
08/01/2012 PUB Getaway Reads, LLC Imprint Paco Media Group 209 pages
October 8, 2012
Elves, Werewolves and magical humans, what more can you ask for. Regan delivers a a gem in The Matchmaker's Mark. It is an alternative for adults who want to read about fairytale lands that usually are geared towards YA. With action, a touch of humor and all romance you are sure to find what you are looking for here.
I have to say I enjoyed reading this book. It was different, for me at least. I don't read a lot of books where elves and magic take the forefront. Reagan creates a vivid world and describes Charleston SC beautifully. You can easily picture the scene that is described on the page. I have to say I appreciate Regan's interpretation on the South. I have read a lot of books that have featured Southern characters and the South as a backdrop and find the character's dialog dumbed down. Or end every sentence with "y'all". I didn't find that here and being from the South I am grateful. There is lots of romance in this book and a few love scenes ;)
I have to say though at first I was a little confused with the story. I wondered who was the herione in the story? It centers more around Lily and Dare than Amy. After reading the book it came together well. The characters are entertaining and fun. The story is more that I thought when I first began reading it. You get a story that is a little more complex than just a matchmaker finding matches. It's about Lily really finding herself and who she is.
Overall I enjoyed the book. The author did a great job. There where some flat parts to it but it still was a good read.
I have to say I enjoyed reading this book. It was different, for me at least. I don't read a lot of books where elves and magic take the forefront. Reagan creates a vivid world and describes Charleston SC beautifully. You can easily picture the scene that is described on the page. I have to say I appreciate Regan's interpretation on the South. I have read a lot of books that have featured Southern characters and the South as a backdrop and find the character's dialog dumbed down. Or end every sentence with "y'all". I didn't find that here and being from the South I am grateful. There is lots of romance in this book and a few love scenes ;)
I have to say though at first I was a little confused with the story. I wondered who was the herione in the story? It centers more around Lily and Dare than Amy. After reading the book it came together well. The characters are entertaining and fun. The story is more that I thought when I first began reading it. You get a story that is a little more complex than just a matchmaker finding matches. It's about Lily really finding herself and who she is.
Overall I enjoyed the book. The author did a great job. There where some flat parts to it but it still was a good read.
August 6, 2016
This is the first book in the Matchmakers trilogy which intertwines two stories throughout the entire book that works really well, and it’s very easy to keep up with the details.
Lily has believed that her birthmark has to do with finding her true love. She is half elf and uses her magic in her floral business to help spread happiness in the lives of others, but she has not been so lucky in find the happiness of true love in her own life. When her birthmark starts changing she thinks it’s because her mate is finally close, but what she learns may be enough to keep her from accepting the one man that truly loves her.
Dare is a wood elf who has been the head security guard for the Matchmaker for a long time. He has arrived in the town where Lily lives to complete his task for her, so that he can return home to his duty as soon as possible. He never expected to have his world turned upside down, but he soon finds out that the Matchmaker is missing, and the woman he has been searching for is to take over for her aunt as the new Matchmaker. On top of it all, he has found his soulmate, but she may be a lot harder to catch than he thought.
Can Dare prove to Lily that his love for her has nothing to do with her birthmark while trying to teach Amy Campbell everything she needs to know to take over the family business as the new Matchmaker and make her understand that she is no longer be safe and her life is no longer her own?
Lily has believed that her birthmark has to do with finding her true love. She is half elf and uses her magic in her floral business to help spread happiness in the lives of others, but she has not been so lucky in find the happiness of true love in her own life. When her birthmark starts changing she thinks it’s because her mate is finally close, but what she learns may be enough to keep her from accepting the one man that truly loves her.
Dare is a wood elf who has been the head security guard for the Matchmaker for a long time. He has arrived in the town where Lily lives to complete his task for her, so that he can return home to his duty as soon as possible. He never expected to have his world turned upside down, but he soon finds out that the Matchmaker is missing, and the woman he has been searching for is to take over for her aunt as the new Matchmaker. On top of it all, he has found his soulmate, but she may be a lot harder to catch than he thought.
Can Dare prove to Lily that his love for her has nothing to do with her birthmark while trying to teach Amy Campbell everything she needs to know to take over the family business as the new Matchmaker and make her understand that she is no longer be safe and her life is no longer her own?
May 2, 2012
The initial character introduction had me believing this was a chick/lit book but it was made interesting with the addition of the para element.
Unfortunately the author doesn't really give us all that much background on either the main character or the world in which she chooses not to live in, and I did feel like some of those details should have been made clearer.
Especially considering that in the blurb the elders are mentioned but apart from a brief encounter with her father, none of the elders and the mystery surrounding Lily's mark feature.
Because of that, I found the story rather disjointed and lacking flow which made it a bumpy read that I struggled to stay focused on.
A nice idea with some interesting elements but I just didnt connect with the characters enough to really care about them.
2 Stars :|
Unfortunately the author doesn't really give us all that much background on either the main character or the world in which she chooses not to live in, and I did feel like some of those details should have been made clearer.
Especially considering that in the blurb the elders are mentioned but apart from a brief encounter with her father, none of the elders and the mystery surrounding Lily's mark feature.
Because of that, I found the story rather disjointed and lacking flow which made it a bumpy read that I struggled to stay focused on.
A nice idea with some interesting elements but I just didnt connect with the characters enough to really care about them.
2 Stars :|
August 27, 2012
This just the kind of Urban Fantasy novel I love to read. A human woman who has more power and magic than she ever realized possible, an Elf woman who truly does have an amazing destiny, and a cranky werewolf. The problem is more than one heroine/hero to this story. There is also the human’s best friend and Elf Body guard, and the Elf’s brother. The focus shift’s from character to character way to much. There are author’s who do the shifting with ease (like George RR Martin), and keep you vested in the outcome of each story. Unfortunately this does not. There is so much going on, and so many story lines to keep straight, after while I just stopped caring and got bored. It’s almost as if the author didn’t believe that she would be able to write an entire series so she tried to tell three books with of abbreviated stories in one novel.
November 14, 2022
Amy Campbell is an English professor and she is guest teaching in Charleston for the winter. She has an interesting Aunt Camille. Turns out the Campbell family has had the role of Matchmaker for humans and mythical creatures for many generations. Amy becomes the new Matchmaker after something unknown happens to Camille.
2022 - I enjoyed reading this again. Darien is kind of a pain as a guard for the new matchmaker.
2022 - I enjoyed reading this again. Darien is kind of a pain as a guard for the new matchmaker.
January 5, 2014
I really liked this story and would have given it 4 stars, except that it was confusing in parts. The characters would act angry and there wasn't really a good reason for them to act that way. And things would happen without a good explanation for it. But overall, a really enjoyable light paranormal romance.
March 21, 2016
This is an interesting read that moves along quickly. The story line is cute and the characters are mesmerizing. The writing is exceptional and I love the match making aspect to the story. I found this to be an enjoyable read.
Gifted a copy for an honest review.
Gifted a copy for an honest review.
July 31, 2013
A cute and quirky urban fantasy with strong characters and a great romance.
July 21, 2014
I enjoyed reading this book..... a nice "beach read".
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