What do you think?
Rate this book
Inked Magic #2
Inked Destiny
The righting of an ancient wrong. A future foretold. The bands tattooed around her wrists are laced with a dragon’s green and more, destiny preordained…
Mind Thief. Gift Thief. Feared for an ability to seize another’s thoughts and powers with a touch, San Francisco tattoo artist Etaín is such an elf—and the time has come for her to learn it.
Close to the transformation and about to discover her place in a supernatural world, Etaín once thought intimacy and permanence were impossible. Now she’s bound to Cathal, the son of an Irish mobster. And claimed by Eamon, an Elven lord with powerful gifts of his own.
Eamon is determined to keep her safe—from others as well as herself. But a quest for justice is more than it seems, leaving their future to hinge on choice and magic. On promises made and dangerous bargains.
Mind Thief. Gift Thief. Feared for an ability to seize another’s thoughts and powers with a touch, San Francisco tattoo artist Etaín is such an elf—and the time has come for her to learn it.
Close to the transformation and about to discover her place in a supernatural world, Etaín once thought intimacy and permanence were impossible. Now she’s bound to Cathal, the son of an Irish mobster. And claimed by Eamon, an Elven lord with powerful gifts of his own.
Eamon is determined to keep her safe—from others as well as herself. But a quest for justice is more than it seems, leaving their future to hinge on choice and magic. On promises made and dangerous bargains.
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2013
10 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
About the author
Jory Strong
64 books424 followersJory has been writing since childhood and has never outgrown being a daydreamer. When she's not hunched over her computer, lost in the muse and conjuring up new heroes and heroines, she can usually be found reading, riding her horses, or hiking with her dogs.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 26, 2014
I truly enjoyed this series
sadly, the publisher refused part 3.
so if you read this series you will be thrilled but then left frustrated because you will not know the epilogue of this trilogy
this is not the author's fault... sadly this is the publisher.
Mary
sadly, the publisher refused part 3.
so if you read this series you will be thrilled but then left frustrated because you will not know the epilogue of this trilogy
this is not the author's fault... sadly this is the publisher.
Mary
August 9, 2020
2 very generous star (quoting a GR friend)
Pornfest, ergo boring to tears. There was a many-pages long (and did I say boring?) sex scene for every few pages of story, making this book a chore to read. There were simply too many and totally unrelated to the story, they were there because the author couldn’t find in her to actually care about the story it seems. I found them boring because there was no attachment to the characters, who were totally under developed and linked by either sex and or magic. So. Nothing.
The plot was barely there and after 2 books you still don’t get a full story. Yes, even cutting the unnecessary pages and uniting 2 book, there’s no full story. What you get is a Swiss cheese with Guinness winning holes.
It read like a serial, rather than a series. The problem is that there’s no book 3 out (and that at 23 bucks that’s an hell of a price to pay).
Pornfest, ergo boring to tears. There was a many-pages long (and did I say boring?) sex scene for every few pages of story, making this book a chore to read. There were simply too many and totally unrelated to the story, they were there because the author couldn’t find in her to actually care about the story it seems. I found them boring because there was no attachment to the characters, who were totally under developed and linked by either sex and or magic. So. Nothing.
The plot was barely there and after 2 books you still don’t get a full story. Yes, even cutting the unnecessary pages and uniting 2 book, there’s no full story. What you get is a Swiss cheese with Guinness winning holes.
It read like a serial, rather than a series. The problem is that there’s no book 3 out (and that at 23 bucks that’s an hell of a price to pay).
July 10, 2013
While I’m not exactly a fan of ménage, the blurb to Inked Destiny intrigued me enough to put aside my reservations. While I really did like the writing (enough to have me go back and check out her first book, Inked Magic), there were many parts of the novel that left me confused and frustrated. The book opens in a way that had me worried it’d be more sex than plot, but thankfully my worries were laid to rest, and while there were some explicit scenes, they were not overly graphic.
Inked Destiny presumably opens where Inked Magic left off, and you find the heroine, Etain, in bed with the two heroes, Eamon, an elven lord, and Cathal, the son of an Irish mobster. Much is made of the fact that Etain is a changeling, possessing magical elven abilities as well as something “other”. Etain has a gift of being able to see and erase other people’s memories, and she uses this ability to help her brother, an FBI agent, and father, a police captain, to identify and capture criminals. She has an uneasy relationship with both men, however, they’re not shy when it comes to exploiting her abilities to put criminals away. I wish this dynamic had been explored more, although since I haven’t read Inked Magic yet, this may have been a big focal point of book one.
Normally, my first thought when I read about trios is I always think someone will get the short end of the stick. A character that’s not as well developed or has less page time and subsequently seems less important than the other two, but such was not the case with Eamon, Etain, and Cathal. It was written in such a way where all the characters were relevant to one another, though I will contradict myself slightly and say that I had hoped for more on Eamon. His character is by far the most powerful, and he is the eldest of the three, but I knew less about him as opposed to the other two.
My biggest problem with the entire book stems from a hit that’s ordered on Cathal because he has the bad luck of being a mobster’s son and the Mexican gang who is hired to execute the hit. It’s a rather jarring subplot that doesn’t mesh very well with the rest of the book, and I cannot determine if that’s because I haven’t read Inked Magic (and am not familiar with the Harlequin Rapist) or if it’s more of a stylistic choice. I was really happy to see two male side characters, Derek and Quinn, being set up together (with no other female involved) and how that relationship develops struck me as being organic, yet pretty ordinary. Their gender and orientation had zero focus, it was just two people becoming a couple. I wish to see this happen in more mainstream romance, not just erotica and erotic romance. Because how the book sets it up hit all the right notes.
I wish I could give the book a higher rating, but I spent a good portion of the novel wondering what had taken place in the previous book and how it correlated to Inked Destiny. That being said, I will definitely read Inked Magic and will pick up future books by Ms. Strong.
- Ronnie
Inked Destiny presumably opens where Inked Magic left off, and you find the heroine, Etain, in bed with the two heroes, Eamon, an elven lord, and Cathal, the son of an Irish mobster. Much is made of the fact that Etain is a changeling, possessing magical elven abilities as well as something “other”. Etain has a gift of being able to see and erase other people’s memories, and she uses this ability to help her brother, an FBI agent, and father, a police captain, to identify and capture criminals. She has an uneasy relationship with both men, however, they’re not shy when it comes to exploiting her abilities to put criminals away. I wish this dynamic had been explored more, although since I haven’t read Inked Magic yet, this may have been a big focal point of book one.
Normally, my first thought when I read about trios is I always think someone will get the short end of the stick. A character that’s not as well developed or has less page time and subsequently seems less important than the other two, but such was not the case with Eamon, Etain, and Cathal. It was written in such a way where all the characters were relevant to one another, though I will contradict myself slightly and say that I had hoped for more on Eamon. His character is by far the most powerful, and he is the eldest of the three, but I knew less about him as opposed to the other two.
My biggest problem with the entire book stems from a hit that’s ordered on Cathal because he has the bad luck of being a mobster’s son and the Mexican gang who is hired to execute the hit. It’s a rather jarring subplot that doesn’t mesh very well with the rest of the book, and I cannot determine if that’s because I haven’t read Inked Magic (and am not familiar with the Harlequin Rapist) or if it’s more of a stylistic choice. I was really happy to see two male side characters, Derek and Quinn, being set up together (with no other female involved) and how that relationship develops struck me as being organic, yet pretty ordinary. Their gender and orientation had zero focus, it was just two people becoming a couple. I wish to see this happen in more mainstream romance, not just erotica and erotic romance. Because how the book sets it up hit all the right notes.
I wish I could give the book a higher rating, but I spent a good portion of the novel wondering what had taken place in the previous book and how it correlated to Inked Destiny. That being said, I will definitely read Inked Magic and will pick up future books by Ms. Strong.
- Ronnie
July 10, 2013
Book two of the Inked Magic series which picks up where the first book left off. For those who have not read the first book, there are parts of the book that can be confusing but it is not hard to catch up with the storyline.
Etain, Eamon, and Cathal are trying to find a middle ground and make their relationship work. Both men want her to themselves but because she wants both of them they are willing to try to make it work. Etain is reeling from her encounter with the Harlequin rapist while trying to deal with her new found discovery of the world of elves and her future role in it. Cathal is subjected to repeated attempts on his life for revenge against his father and uncle. Eamon is trying to be patient with Etain while trying to fulfill his duties as an Elf Lord. To top it all off, as Etain gets closer to her transition, her power becomes more volatile keeping tensions high between her, her family, and the two men she is trying to start a life with.
The story contains a good mix of paranormal and contemporary romance. The paranormal comes in the form of elves and dragons instead of vampires and werewolves/shifters. The multiple plot lines keep the reader engaged while progressing the story and leaving room for potential future installments.
Etain, Eamon, and Cathal are trying to find a middle ground and make their relationship work. Both men want her to themselves but because she wants both of them they are willing to try to make it work. Etain is reeling from her encounter with the Harlequin rapist while trying to deal with her new found discovery of the world of elves and her future role in it. Cathal is subjected to repeated attempts on his life for revenge against his father and uncle. Eamon is trying to be patient with Etain while trying to fulfill his duties as an Elf Lord. To top it all off, as Etain gets closer to her transition, her power becomes more volatile keeping tensions high between her, her family, and the two men she is trying to start a life with.
The story contains a good mix of paranormal and contemporary romance. The paranormal comes in the form of elves and dragons instead of vampires and werewolves/shifters. The multiple plot lines keep the reader engaged while progressing the story and leaving room for potential future installments.
July 11, 2013
I really liked the first book, but this one was lacking. I did like that things picked up where the first one left off. I also liked how , Cathal, and Eamon dealt with their relationship. It seemed like they all knew it was a done deal that the three of them would be together, they just needed to work out the details. I was sort of surprised by that as Cathal didn't want to enter into a sharing situation.
I did like that Etaín learned a lot about herself, that Eamon was there to help her, but so many times Etaín kept pulling TSTL moves. I kept waiting for those moves to bite her in the butt, but it didn't happen.
There was so much family drama too. Each family thought that the people with their family member was bad for them. It got old fast.
I did like all of Eamon's bodyguards. They were funny in ways that they probably shouldn't have been.
With all the changes that occurred to Etaín it will be interesting to see what happens to her next.
I did like that Etaín learned a lot about herself, that Eamon was there to help her, but so many times Etaín kept pulling TSTL moves. I kept waiting for those moves to bite her in the butt, but it didn't happen.
There was so much family drama too. Each family thought that the people with their family member was bad for them. It got old fast.
I did like all of Eamon's bodyguards. They were funny in ways that they probably shouldn't have been.
With all the changes that occurred to Etaín it will be interesting to see what happens to her next.
July 20, 2013
Be prepared to take plenty of cold showers when you read this book! The love scenes are very steamy and Etain's men are HOT! Bad boy Cathal and gorgeous elf lord Eamon are on my Christmas list this year! Etain is a strong, independent woman who even rides her own Harley. Many of the romance novels that I have read portray the woman as weak or reliant on their man/men. Etain definitely has a mind of her own and she is a bad a$$. If you like paranormal romance then you will enjoy this book.
October 28, 2017
1) Did not know this was a sequel when I randomly grabbed it at the library. Note to publisher: Make that more clear in the future.
2) I found the plot to be lacking. Did not see much character development, but did miss the first book so maybe just me.
3) Was not a fan of the sex scenes. Seemed more like two men taking turns than an actual relationship with the people working together. At the end the author tries to include a scene where the men realize they are a trio. But this scene is underdeveloped and vague in detail. Almost as if the author did not know how to truly write this scene.
4) Wanted to like this but in the end, it did not entertain.
2) I found the plot to be lacking. Did not see much character development, but did miss the first book so maybe just me.
3) Was not a fan of the sex scenes. Seemed more like two men taking turns than an actual relationship with the people working together. At the end the author tries to include a scene where the men realize they are a trio. But this scene is underdeveloped and vague in detail. Almost as if the author did not know how to truly write this scene.
4) Wanted to like this but in the end, it did not entertain.
June 5, 2018
Continuing tale with this trio, who is still working to find a way to make it all work out. Several layers if you can get past all the sex. While the scenes were well done it was overwhelming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2020
This was a pretty good series. Too bad there weren’t more books.
October 17, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: Where is book 3? Want it ASAP!
Opening Sentence: Etaín stood naked in the shower, hot water and the heat of the men on either side of her eradicating most of the chill that lingered following her rescue from the Harlequin Rapist.
The Review:
This book is a true sequel and you will need to read Inked Magic to be able to enjoy this story. Find our review here. The story directly follows the conclusion of Inked Magic where Etaín was saved from the Harlequin Rapist.
It is not often that I get a review book that is a second in a series and in preparation, I search out and read the first book. In this case, I did and I’m supremely glad I took the time because I would have really struggled to understand the complexity and uniqueness that is the story and characters.
Etaín is an amazing tattoo artist that has discovered she is a changeling and will soon be a full elf plus she is a gifted and cursed because as her hands touch people she sees and steals their memories. Her gift has become unstable during the process of her change and that is where her men come in, Lord Eamon and Cathal Dunne.
With the two men in her lives comes complications as you would anticipate, however the tension and interplay between these two heroes was not only believable but enjoyable. Lord Eamon is her link to the Elf portion of herself. His elemental gifts include fire and water which he uses to great effect. Lord Eamon also comes with responsibilities for being the Lord of the territory because of his need to protect his people that could include the possibility of killing Etaín if she becomes unstable.
Cathal Dunne is a different problem due to his family connections to the Irish mob. Even with Cathal’s lack of involvement with his families business comes self protection and paranoia when it comes to this new and unusual relationship between Etaín, Lord Eamon and himself.
The other entity in this relationship is Etaín’s Dragon. She sees this in her dreams. The Dragon is a source of mystery and magic and adds to the mystery of Etaín’s past and changing to a full Elf. I’m still unsure exactly what relationship the Dragon has to Etaín even after finishing this book.
This story is one of my favorites that I have read in the last couple of months. The reason is because of the complexity of not only the interplay between our three main characters but the other secondary characters. I have grown to adore not only Sean, Cathal’s PI contact; but Quinn and Derrick and Etaín’s family. The level of character development has really made them become more than just secondary characters. As a reader, I was able to invest emotions in them all and really feel when they were hurt or were put in harms way through events or sometimes Etaín, herself.
Finally, if you have read Inked Magic then you really should pick this up. If you haven’t read Inked Magic then do it ASAP because the story only gets better with Inked Destiny. My only reservation is that I have no idea when we will get book 3 and you will want book 3. Believe me!
Notable Scene:
Eamon shrugged. “Some battles are best avoided. I mean to keep Etaín safe and one of the things I will protect her from is the harm that comes of using her gift at your behest. You will not be allowed access to her if the purpose of your visit is to ask her to touch crime victims and relive the horror of their memories. In fact, you will be escorted out of my home immediately without seeing her if you are unable or unwilling to swear an oath you did not come here with such a request.”
The captain leaned forward, enough menace and aggression in the gesture to have Liam straightening out of his laconic pose. “If my daughter refuses to use her unique abilities, and I hear it directly from her, I’ll accept Etaín’s wishes. I don’t know who you are. Until today, I’d never heard of you or seen you in all the times I’ve been to Aesirs. I don’t know what your connection to the Dunnes is, but be assured I’ll be looking now that you’ve come onto my radar screen. I demand to see my daughter. Get her in here or I’ll–”
“Dad, let’s calm down here. Please. I need to get my paperwork wrapped up and you wanted to make sure Etaín was really okay. Eamon knows this meeting with Etaín has to happen. I let her leave the crime scene without giving a statement. I let them all leave. Let’s shelve this discussion for now. All Eamon has asked is that we promise we’re not here to ask for her help on another case. I know I’m not. Are you?”
FTC Advisory: Berkley/Penguin provided me with a copy of Inked Destiny. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Where is book 3? Want it ASAP!
Opening Sentence: Etaín stood naked in the shower, hot water and the heat of the men on either side of her eradicating most of the chill that lingered following her rescue from the Harlequin Rapist.
The Review:
This book is a true sequel and you will need to read Inked Magic to be able to enjoy this story. Find our review here. The story directly follows the conclusion of Inked Magic where Etaín was saved from the Harlequin Rapist.
It is not often that I get a review book that is a second in a series and in preparation, I search out and read the first book. In this case, I did and I’m supremely glad I took the time because I would have really struggled to understand the complexity and uniqueness that is the story and characters.
Etaín is an amazing tattoo artist that has discovered she is a changeling and will soon be a full elf plus she is a gifted and cursed because as her hands touch people she sees and steals their memories. Her gift has become unstable during the process of her change and that is where her men come in, Lord Eamon and Cathal Dunne.
With the two men in her lives comes complications as you would anticipate, however the tension and interplay between these two heroes was not only believable but enjoyable. Lord Eamon is her link to the Elf portion of herself. His elemental gifts include fire and water which he uses to great effect. Lord Eamon also comes with responsibilities for being the Lord of the territory because of his need to protect his people that could include the possibility of killing Etaín if she becomes unstable.
Cathal Dunne is a different problem due to his family connections to the Irish mob. Even with Cathal’s lack of involvement with his families business comes self protection and paranoia when it comes to this new and unusual relationship between Etaín, Lord Eamon and himself.
The other entity in this relationship is Etaín’s Dragon. She sees this in her dreams. The Dragon is a source of mystery and magic and adds to the mystery of Etaín’s past and changing to a full Elf. I’m still unsure exactly what relationship the Dragon has to Etaín even after finishing this book.
This story is one of my favorites that I have read in the last couple of months. The reason is because of the complexity of not only the interplay between our three main characters but the other secondary characters. I have grown to adore not only Sean, Cathal’s PI contact; but Quinn and Derrick and Etaín’s family. The level of character development has really made them become more than just secondary characters. As a reader, I was able to invest emotions in them all and really feel when they were hurt or were put in harms way through events or sometimes Etaín, herself.
Finally, if you have read Inked Magic then you really should pick this up. If you haven’t read Inked Magic then do it ASAP because the story only gets better with Inked Destiny. My only reservation is that I have no idea when we will get book 3 and you will want book 3. Believe me!
Notable Scene:
Eamon shrugged. “Some battles are best avoided. I mean to keep Etaín safe and one of the things I will protect her from is the harm that comes of using her gift at your behest. You will not be allowed access to her if the purpose of your visit is to ask her to touch crime victims and relive the horror of their memories. In fact, you will be escorted out of my home immediately without seeing her if you are unable or unwilling to swear an oath you did not come here with such a request.”
The captain leaned forward, enough menace and aggression in the gesture to have Liam straightening out of his laconic pose. “If my daughter refuses to use her unique abilities, and I hear it directly from her, I’ll accept Etaín’s wishes. I don’t know who you are. Until today, I’d never heard of you or seen you in all the times I’ve been to Aesirs. I don’t know what your connection to the Dunnes is, but be assured I’ll be looking now that you’ve come onto my radar screen. I demand to see my daughter. Get her in here or I’ll–”
“Dad, let’s calm down here. Please. I need to get my paperwork wrapped up and you wanted to make sure Etaín was really okay. Eamon knows this meeting with Etaín has to happen. I let her leave the crime scene without giving a statement. I let them all leave. Let’s shelve this discussion for now. All Eamon has asked is that we promise we’re not here to ask for her help on another case. I know I’m not. Are you?”
FTC Advisory: Berkley/Penguin provided me with a copy of Inked Destiny. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
July 13, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/07/12/...
Publisher: Berkley
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the publisher via Netgalley
The righting of an ancient wrong. A future foretold. The bands tattooed around her wrists are laced with a dragon’s green and more, destiny preordained…
Mind Thief. Gift Thief. Feared for an ability to seize another’s thoughts and powers with a touch, San Francisco tattoo artist Etaín is such an elf—and the time has come for her to learn it.
Close to the transformation and about to discover her place in a supernatural world, Etaín once thought intimacy and permanence were impossible. Now she’s bound to Cathal, the son of an Irish mobster. And claimed by Eamon, an Elven lord with powerful gifts of his own.
Eamon is determined to keep her safe—from others as well as herself. But a quest for justice is more than it seems, leaving their future to hinge on choice and magic. On promises made and dangerous bargains.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
About a year and a half ago I read the first book in this series, Inked Magic, and thought that the world was interesting, characters intriguing but that it suffered from some flaws. However, I liked the importance of just the right tattoo and it had Elves so I attributed the flaws to the first-book-in-a-series syndrome. My decision was also aided because I have read other works by Strong and enjoyed them. So when Inked Destiny was available for review, I accepted. Unfortunately, I found myself slogging through the book. Inked Destiny takes place immediately following the events in Inked Magic. As a result if you decide to read this I strongly suggest that you read or reread the first one before starting because I didn’t reread and I found myself lost with the connections between characters outside of the primary three. Strong does not include much if any recapping of previous events, which works in some cases but in this particular complex world I needed a few reminders.
Etain, Cathal, and Eamon were still trying to figure out how to make their relationship work. Matters between them were complicated by Cathal’s doubts about sharing Etain, Etain’s evolving power as she changes, and Eamon’s ulterior motives and belief that he knows best. The power struggle was a continual theme even as outsiders tried to exploit the fissures in their bond. Their relationship was set against the backdrop of Elvish and Other politics, gang politics, and police politics all of which were tugging at their loyalties. I felt for a while that they were on an endless circle with Eamon wanting all of Etain and willing to accept Cathal, Etain wanting to be free but enjoying both men, Cathal wanting Etain and not really happy about Eamon. Things would appear to smooth out slightly then something would happen and the trio would revert.
Strong included a lot of different characters from a variety of sources: humans, gang members/leaders, police/federal government agencies, Elves and Dragons. I found myself confused at times wondering who worked for whom and what various characters were. Some individuals seemed to be Elves, or Halflings nearing transformation, or Dragons or something yet to be defined. Add in the various gangs and everyone had their own agendas and wanted to use Etain, Cathal or Eamon to accomplish them. It reached the point when I honestly stopped trying to keep track of the political subplots and just tried to focus on the primary and secondary love relationships. One of which I really hope works out but I am concerned given the latest developments.
I did find some things in Inked Destiny enjoyable. Strong usually provides intense smexy scenes and these were no exception. The relationship between Etain, Cathal and Eamon is M/F/M to this point and does not contain any BDSM but I did not find them lacking. The other thing that really intrigued me was the Dragon that visited Etain’s dreams and knew a lot more then he volunteered, even for a price. However, the things I enjoyed were outweighed by the issues I had with the majority of the story. Some might have been avoided if I had re-read the first book immediately before starting this one but I think I still would have struggled with all of the subplot lines. Given the issues I had with the first story and the fact that I had more with this one, I am afraid I will not continue reading this series.
I give Inked Destiny a C-/D
Publisher: Berkley
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the publisher via Netgalley
The righting of an ancient wrong. A future foretold. The bands tattooed around her wrists are laced with a dragon’s green and more, destiny preordained…
Mind Thief. Gift Thief. Feared for an ability to seize another’s thoughts and powers with a touch, San Francisco tattoo artist Etaín is such an elf—and the time has come for her to learn it.
Close to the transformation and about to discover her place in a supernatural world, Etaín once thought intimacy and permanence were impossible. Now she’s bound to Cathal, the son of an Irish mobster. And claimed by Eamon, an Elven lord with powerful gifts of his own.
Eamon is determined to keep her safe—from others as well as herself. But a quest for justice is more than it seems, leaving their future to hinge on choice and magic. On promises made and dangerous bargains.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
About a year and a half ago I read the first book in this series, Inked Magic, and thought that the world was interesting, characters intriguing but that it suffered from some flaws. However, I liked the importance of just the right tattoo and it had Elves so I attributed the flaws to the first-book-in-a-series syndrome. My decision was also aided because I have read other works by Strong and enjoyed them. So when Inked Destiny was available for review, I accepted. Unfortunately, I found myself slogging through the book. Inked Destiny takes place immediately following the events in Inked Magic. As a result if you decide to read this I strongly suggest that you read or reread the first one before starting because I didn’t reread and I found myself lost with the connections between characters outside of the primary three. Strong does not include much if any recapping of previous events, which works in some cases but in this particular complex world I needed a few reminders.
Etain, Cathal, and Eamon were still trying to figure out how to make their relationship work. Matters between them were complicated by Cathal’s doubts about sharing Etain, Etain’s evolving power as she changes, and Eamon’s ulterior motives and belief that he knows best. The power struggle was a continual theme even as outsiders tried to exploit the fissures in their bond. Their relationship was set against the backdrop of Elvish and Other politics, gang politics, and police politics all of which were tugging at their loyalties. I felt for a while that they were on an endless circle with Eamon wanting all of Etain and willing to accept Cathal, Etain wanting to be free but enjoying both men, Cathal wanting Etain and not really happy about Eamon. Things would appear to smooth out slightly then something would happen and the trio would revert.
Strong included a lot of different characters from a variety of sources: humans, gang members/leaders, police/federal government agencies, Elves and Dragons. I found myself confused at times wondering who worked for whom and what various characters were. Some individuals seemed to be Elves, or Halflings nearing transformation, or Dragons or something yet to be defined. Add in the various gangs and everyone had their own agendas and wanted to use Etain, Cathal or Eamon to accomplish them. It reached the point when I honestly stopped trying to keep track of the political subplots and just tried to focus on the primary and secondary love relationships. One of which I really hope works out but I am concerned given the latest developments.
I did find some things in Inked Destiny enjoyable. Strong usually provides intense smexy scenes and these were no exception. The relationship between Etain, Cathal and Eamon is M/F/M to this point and does not contain any BDSM but I did not find them lacking. The other thing that really intrigued me was the Dragon that visited Etain’s dreams and knew a lot more then he volunteered, even for a price. However, the things I enjoyed were outweighed by the issues I had with the majority of the story. Some might have been avoided if I had re-read the first book immediately before starting this one but I think I still would have struggled with all of the subplot lines. Given the issues I had with the first story and the fact that I had more with this one, I am afraid I will not continue reading this series.
I give Inked Destiny a C-/D
April 4, 2015
Originally Reviewed on The Bewitching Bibliophile
While I get Etain's need to remain in control of her life, she constantly does shit that puts others in danger then gets dumb, when it blows up in her face. she kinda reminded me of Anita in the earlier books, where everyone had to thread lightly because Anita hated to be told she was wrong, and when you did she tended to hurt those who told her. Ugh this shyt was getting old fast. Take your head out your hindparts Etain. It kinda felt like they went backwards a bit, to like the first part of the first book before she really accepted the changes. I was getting kinda tired of them doing dumb shyt for prides sake. Get it the eff together y'all bit things are coming and y'all are more worried about things that aren't going to last.
I however did not see the changes coming for our police officer friend nor for her bestie, that was seriously strong magic, that woman wasn't playing no games with Etain. Etain wanted to prove she didn't need anybody and actually put herself in deeper trouble than she needed, because you know talking to the man that's been an elf his entire life, that might not make sense.AT.ALL. I so badly wanted to shake her like Why?? Stop being stupid and stubborn.
At page 277 I started to panic because I went online and there isn't anymore information about other books, and this only came out in 2013, so there should be some buzz or something, there is nothing. And the setup for the ending?? Chile listen I was laid out. All these things became clear, and we know based on what happened in the beginning that even more things are coming and Etain Eamon & Cathal are in the dead center of it all. Cathal's family doesn't trust her, there is the weird new girl, Eamon's people, Etain's family, her missing mother, the trouble that was at the beginning of the book, and of course the Dragon.
They better get it together because the storm that's brewing is going to be huge. And I can't wait to contiuue the series, when Jory puts out another. As for the price, ahhha, nope I paid way less than that, I paid $7.99 but still, damn for that I might as well get the physical book (which I'm going to have to get anyway because I have the first book in physical form.)
Have you read this series?? Share in the comments what you think.
★★★★1/2☆
While I get Etain's need to remain in control of her life, she constantly does shit that puts others in danger then gets dumb, when it blows up in her face. she kinda reminded me of Anita in the earlier books, where everyone had to thread lightly because Anita hated to be told she was wrong, and when you did she tended to hurt those who told her. Ugh this shyt was getting old fast. Take your head out your hindparts Etain. It kinda felt like they went backwards a bit, to like the first part of the first book before she really accepted the changes. I was getting kinda tired of them doing dumb shyt for prides sake. Get it the eff together y'all bit things are coming and y'all are more worried about things that aren't going to last.
I however did not see the changes coming for our police officer friend nor for her bestie, that was seriously strong magic, that woman wasn't playing no games with Etain. Etain wanted to prove she didn't need anybody and actually put herself in deeper trouble than she needed, because you know talking to the man that's been an elf his entire life, that might not make sense.AT.ALL. I so badly wanted to shake her like Why?? Stop being stupid and stubborn.
At page 277 I started to panic because I went online and there isn't anymore information about other books, and this only came out in 2013, so there should be some buzz or something, there is nothing. And the setup for the ending?? Chile listen I was laid out. All these things became clear, and we know based on what happened in the beginning that even more things are coming and Etain Eamon & Cathal are in the dead center of it all. Cathal's family doesn't trust her, there is the weird new girl, Eamon's people, Etain's family, her missing mother, the trouble that was at the beginning of the book, and of course the Dragon.
They better get it together because the storm that's brewing is going to be huge. And I can't wait to contiuue the series, when Jory puts out another. As for the price, ahhha, nope I paid way less than that, I paid $7.99 but still, damn for that I might as well get the physical book (which I'm going to have to get anyway because I have the first book in physical form.)
Have you read this series?? Share in the comments what you think.
★★★★1/2☆
July 9, 2013
2nd book. The story of elf changling Etain, Elf lord Eamon, and human Cathal continue.
Due to the events of the last book having a direct connection to the plot of this book, it may be helpful if not nessary to read Inked Magic to fully enjoy Inked Destiny.
Etain is not only dealing with changes from her trasition to full elf but also dealing with trouble from the men in her life. Eamon walks a fine line between making Etain happy and showing he has the power to controll her and her changing powers if necessary. Cathal is not only avoiding attempts on his life but overcoming his adversion to sharing Etain.
Action, drama, suspense, sex, and magic are all things to look forward to in this novel.
I liked the flow of the story, it kept my intrest and flowed nicely. It had some nice little surprises pop up withing the story. Quinn was a big surprise that I look forward to finding more out later. Derrick and Quinn make a nice couple and I can't help but want to know more about "Tall, Dark and Predatory" aka Cage.
Warning this is some M/M action between Quinn and Derrick. Also a quick vague DP scene at the end between Etain, Cathal and Eamon.
I recieved this book from a givaway and was not dissapointed in the read. I look forward to the next book and wonder what the author has in store for us next.
Due to the events of the last book having a direct connection to the plot of this book, it may be helpful if not nessary to read Inked Magic to fully enjoy Inked Destiny.
Etain is not only dealing with changes from her trasition to full elf but also dealing with trouble from the men in her life. Eamon walks a fine line between making Etain happy and showing he has the power to controll her and her changing powers if necessary. Cathal is not only avoiding attempts on his life but overcoming his adversion to sharing Etain.
Action, drama, suspense, sex, and magic are all things to look forward to in this novel.
I liked the flow of the story, it kept my intrest and flowed nicely. It had some nice little surprises pop up withing the story. Quinn was a big surprise that I look forward to finding more out later. Derrick and Quinn make a nice couple and I can't help but want to know more about "Tall, Dark and Predatory" aka Cage.
Warning this is some M/M action between Quinn and Derrick. Also a quick vague DP scene at the end between Etain, Cathal and Eamon.
I recieved this book from a givaway and was not dissapointed in the read. I look forward to the next book and wonder what the author has in store for us next.
August 23, 2016
So, in my last review, I stressed how much the story was lacking in plot holes and character development as well as background information. Honestly, this story has a pretty kickass idea behind the whole fantasy theme going on but, although I was hoping for all of these concerns to be cleared up in the sequel, they weren't. I found the story a little slow paced and dragged on a lot. I wanted some development in our main girl, but her character kept falling short as well as the two male protagonists. Also, I was expecting for her relationship with Eamon to develop more in this story but it felt forced and I didn't feel the same love being portrayed for him. Which bummed since I preferred him over the other. Also, more drama and subplots came up and became the main focus like in the last book instead of the history behind the character. I had to push through this one because I wasn't having fun reading it anymore.
As for the sex, I felt that it focused too much on it and not in the manner it did in the previous book. Maybe it was because I was tired of reading about it and not about progress with Eamon but I skipped through a lot of the sex scenes.
All in all, I gave this story a 3 out of 5 stars. It was decent and there were little sections that I enjoyed. Would I reread it? No. Recommend it? No, there a lot of erotic paranormal out there that are personally better.
As for the sex, I felt that it focused too much on it and not in the manner it did in the previous book. Maybe it was because I was tired of reading about it and not about progress with Eamon but I skipped through a lot of the sex scenes.
All in all, I gave this story a 3 out of 5 stars. It was decent and there were little sections that I enjoyed. Would I reread it? No. Recommend it? No, there a lot of erotic paranormal out there that are personally better.
August 27, 2013
So, I won this autographed book from good reads, yeah! I can't start on book two though and since book one was so expensive it took me awhile to find one to borrow. I really got into book one and jumped right into book two. That being said, book two is all about sex, sex, and then some more sex, that almost sums this book up. I was disappointed after the first one being so good. It also started off referring to the day of the abduction as two days earlier, one day earlier, then just earlier that day - it was all over the place. Then there was all the sex - I started skipping it, it was getting in the way of the plot and too redundant - and at the end where the plot really came in; I thought it was confussing at times. There is definitely potential here, I really liked the first book and where it was going and I liked the bit of plot we were given in book two. I hope the third book can back off the sex a bit and give me more coherent magical plot, because when it's good, it's really good.
July 8, 2013
Love Jory Strong! Her books are not the typical supernatural of vampires, werewolves/shifters and zombies of late.
This is NOT a stand alone book and therefore you will be lost if you have not read the first book, Inked Magic. Inked Destiny picks right up where the first book stopped. Since it had been awhile since reading Inked Magic I felt I should have re-read it before starting Inked Destiny just to follow along better. This being said Inked Destiny was still very good. I find myself on pens and needles waiting for the next story, some much is in question. I hope Ms. Strong hurries with this series of books!.
I will not give away the plot/story line or re-cap the back cover just know if you are looking for something different in the supernatural world pick up any Jory Strong book. Ghostland was my first book by this author and I would highly recommend it as well as this new series, Inked Magic.
This is NOT a stand alone book and therefore you will be lost if you have not read the first book, Inked Magic. Inked Destiny picks right up where the first book stopped. Since it had been awhile since reading Inked Magic I felt I should have re-read it before starting Inked Destiny just to follow along better. This being said Inked Destiny was still very good. I find myself on pens and needles waiting for the next story, some much is in question. I hope Ms. Strong hurries with this series of books!.
I will not give away the plot/story line or re-cap the back cover just know if you are looking for something different in the supernatural world pick up any Jory Strong book. Ghostland was my first book by this author and I would highly recommend it as well as this new series, Inked Magic.
January 5, 2016
I want more! I crave it! About halfway through this book I couldn't put it down! The action was seamless and the characters bold and strong. I wish to know more of this alliance that was created and the magics that are spoken of. I really, really do.
The book started off right were the last ended and continued strongly. Eamon needs to learn how to bend, Etain might change but not as far as he might think or wish. Cathal might be human but he is warrior strong but plagued by doubts fueled by half truths and unfinished thoughts. Together these three create a change I can only guess at as the book does not elaborate.
I also wish to know more about Quinn and Derrek and what their bond truly represents. What his entire being does for this supernatural world. Cage, cage is also an interesting entity.
As I've said before. I wish to know what happens in these peoples futures. Much like I want sunshine on a cloudy day. Hopefully the author continues this series soon.
The book started off right were the last ended and continued strongly. Eamon needs to learn how to bend, Etain might change but not as far as he might think or wish. Cathal might be human but he is warrior strong but plagued by doubts fueled by half truths and unfinished thoughts. Together these three create a change I can only guess at as the book does not elaborate.
I also wish to know more about Quinn and Derrek and what their bond truly represents. What his entire being does for this supernatural world. Cage, cage is also an interesting entity.
As I've said before. I wish to know what happens in these peoples futures. Much like I want sunshine on a cloudy day. Hopefully the author continues this series soon.
July 8, 2013
I enjoyed this book. The action, suspense and further expansion of the characters that were in Inked Magic worked. This book follows Etain, Cathal and Eamon’s relationship and tells a different story then book one.
My only negative’s about this book is that it was a huge amount of time between book one and two. A lot of past ‘secondary’ relationships that were introduced in the first book were lost to me due to the time chunk (for example, Etain’s relationship with her father, her father’s wife, her brother, etc….), which wouldn’t have been a big deal except all these characters appeared in the second book. Also, there is A LOT going on in this story. There are like 4 different subplot’s and trying to keep everyone straight proved tough at times.
My only negative’s about this book is that it was a huge amount of time between book one and two. A lot of past ‘secondary’ relationships that were introduced in the first book were lost to me due to the time chunk (for example, Etain’s relationship with her father, her father’s wife, her brother, etc….), which wouldn’t have been a big deal except all these characters appeared in the second book. Also, there is A LOT going on in this story. There are like 4 different subplot’s and trying to keep everyone straight proved tough at times.
November 8, 2013
I found this book started out decent but got boring towards the end. It kind of reminded me of Danielle Steel's Lucky series. Corruption, suspicion and a lot of sex. The whole thing with her ink was starting to get confusing with the interactions with other people who had ink done by her. Poor Cathal was getting sucked in head first with no idea if it was his choice or "elf pheramones". And Eamon was at his wits end to just help his people the only way he thought he knew how. The ending was quit interesting to say the least. Not sure if I will continue this series. I will give the author one thing if she stops this series she would be excellent at writing gang war thriller/mystery.
August 15, 2013
I got this book curtsy of Goodreads so I was determine to give it a shot despite all the reviews regarding how erotic it would be. It was quite an interesting read and it is my own bias against it that I only gave it a so-so rating. I love the whole elfin story to it but I personally did wish the all the erotica was more meaningful, not just people were horny because they were hot and of age.
I am an eighteen years old female so it wasn't like I lost any innocence, but I do think I was naive before reading this book. All in all it was a decent book and I did like the idea but I tend to lead towards the more fantasy, sci-fi, romantic, mysteries that don't have excessive sex in it.
I am an eighteen years old female so it wasn't like I lost any innocence, but I do think I was naive before reading this book. All in all it was a decent book and I did like the idea but I tend to lead towards the more fantasy, sci-fi, romantic, mysteries that don't have excessive sex in it.
August 20, 2013
I won a copy of this book as part of the free reads program on goodreads.com. This book picks up right where Inked Magic left off. So you really need to read it first so that you know what is going on with the story. Luckly I was able to get a secondhand copy of Inked Magic at my local secondhand book store and didn't have to interlibaray borrow it as that can take a long time some times to come in.
I wouldn't recomend this book for anyone under 18 or for those who are easily offended as it as erotic scenes but is not smutty
I wouldn't recomend this book for anyone under 18 or for those who are easily offended as it as erotic scenes but is not smutty
July 11, 2013
This follow up to the first book is great. The story flowed perfectly from Inked Magic to Inked Destiny. I recommend this for anyone who likes erotic romance and a great story too. Everyone should grab this book and the first one. If you love them both make sure to put it out there and recommend them to friends that way we can get a thrid. Your going to love these books. Jory is great at spinning a story you can relate to.
August 8, 2013
Wow, such a lot of work has gone into developing the mythology in this book. A thoroughly enjoyable and engaging read. I have to say though, given that the book is based on a ménage relationship and the erotic nature of some of Jory Strong's other books, this story glosses over any actual two on (or should I say in) one and anal where everywhere else sex is usually quite explicitly detailed. Not a bad thing necessarily, just surprising.
July 13, 2013
I wanted to love this book so bad. I love the characters and will read the next book (praying for more clear cut answers) but I kept being pulled out of the story to re-read and try to figure out what was happening. I hope the next book explains more. I love steamy scenes, live for them, but not at the expense of the story.
November 7, 2015
To simply word it.
I'm a fan of ménage, I loved the first book!
But...
This '2nd Part' didn't even give it justice, it was rushed and lagged at the same time, left you wanting to hit the leading female and ask questions that you were promised to get answered but in the end got nothing.
I had high hopes, but they were quickly dashed. I won't recommend this book to anyone. sorry
:/
I'm a fan of ménage, I loved the first book!
But...
This '2nd Part' didn't even give it justice, it was rushed and lagged at the same time, left you wanting to hit the leading female and ask questions that you were promised to get answered but in the end got nothing.
I had high hopes, but they were quickly dashed. I won't recommend this book to anyone. sorry
:/
March 4, 2014
Good solid Paranormal romance with the heat turned up. This is the second in the series. MFM menage, elves, magic,mobsters, dragons, a mystery a murder and tattoos. Enjoyed this story of Etain, Cathal and Eamon and looking forward to what the next one brings
July 5, 2013
I enjoyed getting lost in the Passion and the Magic.
August 15, 2013
Just eh....
Read
November 14, 2014I just couldn't get into this one at all. It seemed like it was all about the sex and random things kept happened to try and create a storyline that just wasn't there.
April 8, 2016
OMG loved the book and I can't wait for another! Love Etain and her men and can't wait to see where they go!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews