Forced into a world of ancient magick and fabled creatures, vampire Rhowen Vasile has been honored with the prestigious appointment of executioner-a promotion she never wanted. Now she has two important execute criminal vampires and protect her race's Kamen, one of five ancient relics said to harness all magick in the DarqRealm. When the Kamen Rho swore to protect goes missing, she's assigned the most important task of her life-join an interracial team with a magick mover, a werewolf and a shape shifter to recover what's been lost. If she fails, the executioner will become the executed, and the magick held within the relics could be lost forever. As other Kamens start to disappear and the teammates struggle to trust one another, Rho discovers a physical bond with a powerful magick mover that shouldn't be possible. With the survival of the entire DarqRealm compromised, she barely has time to deal with her temperamental teammates, much less a forbidden attraction. Rho a
Chauntelle is a writer with a special love for the genres of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. She also adores musical theater, walking around barefoot, wearing scarves and eating chocolate – not necessarily in that order. When she’s not busy working in the Houston oil & gas business, you find her spending time with her husband at the lake. For more updates and information on her latest releases, please sign up for her newsletter (http://ymlp.com/xgjbyjyugmgb) or visit her website at www.clbaughman.com.
Fellow author Deanna Chase recommended Ms. Baughman's first book in the 'DarqRealm' series on her Facebook page and I decided I would check it out. After all I loved her stuff so...if she's recommending it's got to be good, right? Right! I wasn't disappointed. Fast paced, well written...strong characters. I can't wait to read more about the 'team' and more interactions with each other. A love story with a bit of a spin to keep it interesting. Oh and for a Indie novel I give her props because this Grammar Nazi BARELY noticed any spelling or grammar errors! I can tell Ms Baughman either had a great editor and or she really cared about putting a good product out. Anyhow, the price is right...if you like vamps, wizards and weres I don't think you'll be disappointed. :)
Book one in the DarqRealm series Magick Marked is a fantastic read. A set of strong characters and a solid storyline makes it a great read. It was action packed, fast-paced and easy to read. For a debut novel Chauntelle Baughman did a very good job.
Rhowen ‘Rho’ Vasile is a vampire, and she has been recently promoted. To the position of the executor- a position she does not want. But it’s her job and so she does it. When she is given an ancient relic by her King, she has to do everything she can to protect. She approaches a magick-mover, Eldon Tradare, the strongest of his kind. But even after all his efforts, when the relic is lost, mayhem ensues in the other world.
A Kamen is an ancient relic filled with magick. It’s what lets the vampires drink blood, what lets the shifters shift and what lets the fae and magick-movers use their magick. It’s loss means the apocalypse of the world as the otherworld-ers know it. And now the vampires, shifters and magick-movers have lost their Kamens. The three species along with the were species work together to find the lost relics.
Rho has to work with Eldon, Tim; a werewolf and Preshea; a shifter to find the lost relics and bring them back home. But among the group of people who don’t trust each other, will they manage to complete their mission, before they kill each other. Along with all this Rho also has to deal with her feelings for a man she can’t have.
There are a few issues with the book. Rho is just 2 in vampire years. Why was she given the role of an executioner at such a young age. A lot of questions are unanswered too. Like, how did her parents die? What is the King’s real interest in her?
The relationship between Rho and her sire Frederick is easy going and friendly. He is her best friend but wants to be more. The banter between Rho and Eldon is fun and enjoyable. The book has some really kick-ass characters, good action and some really cool magick. A greatly enjoyable read.
A 4/5 star for this book. Can’t wait for the next book in the series. After all there are so many questions we need answers to.
Magick Marked was a great book. I read it in one day because I could not put it down. It had elements that are common in books now like shifters, werewolves, and vampires but it had originality to it with paranormal characters that are not common such as magick movers and syphons. The plot was original and I was well thought out so that some questions were answered and others will not be answered until the next book in the series comes out. It left me questioning who to trust which is a good thing in order to keep people reading the series. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone! Now I can't wait for the next book to come out so I can see how the story evolves!!!
I was given this book for free in exchange for an honest review. (and I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was!!!Please come out with the next book soon!)
A thoroughly enjoyable read (which I started and finished in one sitting), the character who I have totally taken to my literary heart is Rhowen Vasile a brilliant lead character who is tough, kick-ass well trained and powerful despite her youth, yet due to this youth she is still passionate, caring and deeply thoughtful to others, well those who deserve it. The darqrealm is full of paranormal creatures vampires, werewolves, shifters, magic movers & elves. deep plots with tantalising twists and turns, a brilliant start to a new series which is now on my must read list. really looking forward to the next book.
Chauntelle Baughman is a new author (to me anyway) and would recommend to anyone looking for a new fantasy series. Very much looking forward to future books from this author. Would also like to add this book was only 99pence on amazon, Happy times:)
My review is based on the Audiobook. Magick Marked grabbed me from the start and did not let go until the end, and I Love that in a story. There was a great mix of magic, paranormal creatures and romance. The characters were in depth and relatable and I am looking forward to see what happens to them in Book #2. Kelley Hazen is a phenomenal narrator who keeps me hanging on her every word. When she reads her characters each have a unique voice but are distinguishable and easy to understand. I would definitely purchase more books by both Author & Narrator. I received this free Audiobook at my request which did not influence my honest review.
I almost didn't read this on principle because I don't like alternate spellings (Darqrealm? Is that like the Korn of magic realms?)
Buuuuut I'm really glad I did, it was thoroughly enjoyable. The protagonist has brains, the plot keeps things moving, and the characters all have reasonable motivations and choices.
Magick Marked is a story that follows Rho (a vampire) who is sent on a quest with other paranormal beings (a magick mover, shifter, and werewolf) to retrieve a stolen stone called a kamen. These four teammates must put aside their differences with the each other and work together to stop a thief who wants to obtain all the kamens. Strange things happen along the way with a lot of action and twists. This is the first book of The Darqrealm Series.
Characters: The story is told in third person through Rho and Eldon (the magick mover)—but mostly through Rho. Rho is a fairly new vampire who is also an “executioner” to the King of the vampires. (The Prince of the vampires created her.) She was put in charge of protecting the vampire kamen. Before turning into a vampire, Rho had a troubled past that the reader finds out about. Coming together with the other supernatural characters is not something she is thrilled about, but she believes in her duty and carries out what must be done. As a strong female character, she does not like to feel weak or the need to be protected. Eldon is a magick mover – which is a like a wizard. He initially gives Rho a protective spell to keep the kamen safe. Eldon comes from a family (two sisters included in this book) that hates vampires and do not trust them. However, he finds himself thrown into this adventure with one. Being able to sense magic, Eldon can recognize fae magic, as well. A fae is not one represented among the team to bring back the kamen. Each species has its own norms and rules so that conflict can easily arise within the group.
Plot: The plot moves along well. There is plenty of action to read about. This is the first book in the series so do not expect all of your questions to be answered right away. There actually might be more questions by the time the book concludes. One tiny thing that was a little distracting for me was the cursing in the book. I’m not against cursing, and it can make the characters more realistic. However, I think it could have been cut down a smidge without taking away from the story. I also wondered how vampires can turn humans into vampires. I do not remember reading about that fact.
The Bottom Line: Overall, I enjoyed the story. It has many paranormally elements (magic, vampires, shifters, werewolves, and fae.) The story held my interest throughout. If you like paranormal mysteries, you might want to give this book a shot.
This is definitely an example of the book being 10x better than what I expected after reading the blurb.
I didn't expect to connect with the characters as much as I did, but these characters really do jump off the page. Chauntelle Baughman does such a great job of being in their heads without giving you too much that I had to remind myself it wasn't written in first person. I felt as though they were talking to me, which creates a much deeper connection and draw to the characters for me.
This gets a bit spoilery, so be warned.
The love story was really well played out. I felt like the resistance was done well and the progression was natural. Rho wasn't completely emo because she felt like things would never work with Eldon. It's just a fact to her, even if it is one she isn't happy with (though she'll barely admit that to herself). They both have faults (stubborn, independent, argumentative) and instead of trying to change that about one another or battle over dominance, it seems that the faults they have in common only draw them to each other more, giving them insight into what the other is thinking in a way they haven't experienced with anyone else before.
The inter-race relations is also very interesting. They've all been raised to think they know about the other race(and that their race is superior, of course), but they're proved wrong. First impressions might emphasize those stereotypes (like Tim acting like a testosterone driven jock at the beginning when Eldon stupidly downplays the bond between a pack), but we get to see the layers to each character as they discover those layers about one another.
I loved that Rho wasn't this perfect, graceful, seductive, all-knowing vampire. She was vulnerable. She was lonely. She was damaged. But she was also prideful and had her walls up. She was more human than you would expect in a vampire story.
The action and suspense really kept you turning the pages. I've been at DragonCon reading this, and any spare moment I had, I pulled out this book. Once I got to chapter twenty, I was ready to go back to the hotel and finish it off. And I am definitely ready for book two!
I won a copy from a Librarything.com giveaway in exchange for a review. A fantastic start to a new urban fantasy series. I loved the world building and the characters. The world building was unique and something I've not come across before. I also particularly liked how there were other species beside the standard vampires, shapeshifters and witches. Elves and Fae worked in to the landscape without managing to make it too over the top. The take on each species was new and interesting and gave all the characters plenty of dimensions. The plot was fast paced, revolving around some very powerful magical magical items going missing and a representative from each group coming together to look for them to stop their magical world from falling apart by deadly hands. One thing I particularly liked was that none of the characters brought together for the mission were particularly thrilled with each other. None of them get along, and I enjoyed the journey of how they had to over come their personal objects, and suck it up to work together. You see them grow as people throughout the story and become more rounded individuals in spite of their issues. The action was intense, it was well plotted, and the romance side didn't over take once it happened. The chemistry between the two characters that got together worked well, and their relationship built throughout the the novel to a great conclusion. While the novel had a definite ending, it was clear there was more to come and I'm definitely looking forward to the next one.
I really liked this read. It has all the elements I enjoy in a beginning of a new urban fantasy series. There is plenty of action and of course an underlying who-done-it that kept me reading to find out what would happen next and why. The characters were great and I have found a new heroine to cheer for in Rho, who is a great kick heinie, no nonsense gal. There were times I giggled at the snark, times I cringed at the anger, and I came close to crying when . . . (no spoilers here LOL). The DarqRealm is definitely a new world to explore with all the prejudices that are faced in real life with each supernatural group believing they are better than the other, as well as Rho's insecurities that make her very believable. The characters are thrown together over a world ending crisis and must work together to accomplish their goal or die. The writing was smooth and I really enjoyed the style. The world and character building was everything I could ask for in a fun read. While the book ends on a "to be continued note," it was not frustrating, but rather has me anxious to read the next installment in the series to see where we go from here as there is obviously more story to be told. I requested this book for read and review from the author and received it with a request for my honest review without any compensation whatsoever, other than the joy of reading a new book
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side!
Firstly I would like to thank Chauntelle Baughman, author of Magick Marked for this wonderful opportunity of reading and reviewing the book.
I loved this book and who won't? Anyone who is a paranormal fan will love it as it has all those fantastic paranormal beings whom we heart so much - we have vampires, werewolves, shifters, wizards, fae. Yeah you heard me right guys!
I really enjoyed the story, it is unique and totally refreshing and I really loved the main character Rho, she is robust, confident, passionate and totally kick-ass type, no kidding there people!
The story is fast-paced, full of real action and the suspense will make you chomp on your nails and you'll turn the pages faster than you usually do to know the ultimate surprise that the author kept hidden till the end.
The characterization is great and the writing style was fabulous which really helped me to connect myself to the story and the characters as well.
I would recommend this book to all the guys who want some fresh paranormal genre book, you won't be disappointed.
Firstly would like to mention the cover. Its exactly how I would of pictured 'Rho' to look! She is part of a coven of vampires.' The Executioner' ,although she doesn't enjoy her role as 'Executioner' She gets on with it, as she is ordered to do by the Vampire King 'costel'. Her Maker 'Prince Frederick'(very sweet by the way ;) is very close to her,as she has no family left. She meets 'Eldon' (love him!) and there is a certain 'Chemistry' ;) between them...and a bit more(but i'm not giving any spoilers...) The Kamen's(magical stones) are what is sought after. Reuniting all five stones is the key to gaining magic that would control all the magic in the Darqrealm. The author has done a great job of drawing the reader in from the very beginning. The characters well thought of. I would like to see a prequel of this if the author doesn't give more mention about the attack on Rho's parents/her attack and the extra interest from Frederick before she was 'turned' and the King's interest aswell. Can't wait for book 2!!(And yes I am available to read an Arc copy Chauntelle :)
This book is a paranormal romance but so very much more. The world contains romance and legendary beings. The story of the honor to be chosen and yet not really desiring this placement, execution and protection. Is it possible they might turn the tables and hunt her for execution? Trying to stay focus on what is most important is hard to do with a prohibited love in close proximity. The characters are a delight! They are unique, robust, strong minded and compassionate. The team is made up of a shape shifter, werewolf and magick mover with very different abilities and the same common need. This book held my attention and the pacing as the story unfolds was a nice even movement. The author done a very good job of describing and showing the plot. It was not rushed or so slow I skipped pages. I received this book via LibraryThing Member give aways. I do very much appreciate the ability to read this wonderful book.
Base on the book cover, I was expecting some kick-ass heroine, however despise having a fearsome reputation, I was a bit disappointed Rhowen did not live up to her reputation throughout the book. She was often refer as very young, and the baby in her coven. Compare to her other teammates, she seem to be rather weak. Until something curious happened, and the possibility of Rhowen being a half-breed, someone who can draw magic from others. That which will make her quite powerful, if not the most powerful.
I liked the slow buildup between Rhowen and Eldon. Instead of quickly accept they were Soul Struck, both of them were skeptical at first, and treated the situation carefully.
Magick Marked was a decent start for the DarqRealm Series, like most first book of the series, we were given quite a bit of information. It will be interesting to see what will happen in the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the Shut Up & Read group through their Read it and Reap program in exchange for a review.
I really enjoyed this story. It started with a quick pace right at the beginning and continued throughout the whole book. The main characters were well developed and a lot of potential to expand on the minor ones as the series progresses. I could have used a little more world building, but that can easily come in future books as well. I would say the beginning and end were strong with the middle a little lacking. Some of the things that happen during the middle of the book were a bit too contrived and convenient, such as their "safehouse". The rest of the story more than made up for that with the potential that I can see in future books. The storyline was unique and at the end of it, left me wanting more. Many questions still need to be answered and I'm looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds.
When I read the description of the book, I had my doubts about how good it would be. However, once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. The slowly developing love interest between Rho and Eldon kept me wanting more. Eldon is the strong, masculine hero that lovers of paranormal romance dream of. The characters were well-developed and the world has some unique aspects to it.
A couple of complaints I have about the book is that the ending leaves you hollow, as if there should have been more to come. I understand that there will be another book to come, but each book needs its own conclusion, which I felt this book lacked. Also, the mission that the team was supposed to go on never really occurred while they were at the warehouse.
Overall, I thought it was an excellent book. For being a self-published author, I have to give her two thumbs up! I cannot wait to read the second book.
It took me a little while to get into this book, I have to admit. I am happy I kept reading though becauase it ended up being a great book. Eldon and Rho are now two of my favorite characters and I can't wait for the next book and to see what else happens between them. I keep picturing Taylor Kinney as Eldon, thoug he isnt' tall enough to be him, with those piercing blue eyes of his.
I like the mythology of the DarqRealm and the characters the author has created. I can see it all vividly like I am watching a movie in my mind. A definite must read if you like a elements of paranormal, because you get them all in this series beginner.
It takes little while to get into but it is well worth the persistence.
I loved narrating this story! How often does one get to create vampires, werewolves, shape shifters and more? The first two characters in the Prologue, 'Mohan' and 'Rhyannon' are some of my favorite and most fun voices to date. 'Rho Valise' is a terrific, strong female character full of doubts but also strength and ATTITUDE! This is a modern day epic that you don't want to stop as the characters fight to save their world with all kind of inventive new magic and science fiction ideas. The love affair between 'Rho' and 'Eldon' is very steamy right from the start and it tingles. We are about to start Book 2 of the series FATE FORSAKEN. I can't wait to hear what happens.
Magick Marked is about a world filled with paranormals, who are forced to work together to find the magical kamen, that was stolen. I found the plot quite unique. The characters were also well written and grew with the story. This is not just another "vampire" book. I like reading vamp books but at the same time so many make me roll my eyes as I am reading. This book is not like that at all.
It has been some time since I have read a book and actually got goosebumps while reading because it had me so on edge. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
I actually really liked this series, I loved how they brought together different types of supernatural beings and forced them to work together. The characters were well developed and each more interesting than the next. I liked the slow build up between the love interest which was acceptable rather than jumping straight into the relationship. The build up was done brilliantly with just enough push to get them to where they needed to be and accepting it. I will definitely be interested in seeing what will happen in the next book.
Magick Marked definitely holds promise. The one thing I did not like was the characterization of Rho. I got the feeling that when author first envisioned Rho, he had this serious deadly assassin in mind. Someone who does what needs to be done but doesn't like it much and so those tattoos for every life she takes. Somewhere somehow came along that punk assed bitchy Rho. If she was meant for raising a few laughs...well I ain't laughing. If you are a fan of this genre, this is one hell of a book definitely not to be missed.
I loved this book. It had me hooked from the start. I really enjoyed Rho and Eldon and how their characters developed. I will admit that there were a few timeline discrepancies that the author should really take a closer look at. Truthfully, i really didn't care because I enjoyed the book that much. But really, over all a really great book. I look forward to finding out how everything all turns out.
I would classify Magick Marked as an urban fantasy with a world and characters different enough and entertaining enough to keep my attention and convince me to buy book #2, Fate Forsaken. The supernatural characters of this world are not only still hidden from most humans, but they are very segregated with vampires considered the 'blood sucking, murdering, undead.' Rho makes some stupid choices, but she is young. The romance is believable, and no love triangles raise their ugly heads.
I just finished Magick Market, it had great story and character development. I was enthralled from the start, I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next in the series. It follows Rho a newly turned vampire in search of stolen Magick stones. The relationships between the team in search of the stones was dynamic and I can't wait to learn how the develop.
This book was better than I expected and I had high expectations to begin with. I was really happy with how the story and characters played out. Thank you so much for giving this book to me! PUT ME ON THE LIST FOR THE NEXT ONE!!!!!!!!!!
For the paranormal lover, this book has it all.....vampires, werewolves, shifters, fae, and wizards. Rho is a newly made vampire. She must work with the other paranormals to find stolen stones.
The book is fast paced and well edited. Any paranormal lover should enjoy this book.
This was a damn good book! Loved Rho's affliction to tats, and her attitude. Oh don't forget, "Holy Shitballs". Haha Her and Eldon had me devouring the book pretty quick! CANNOT WAIT TO READ BOOK 2!!
Loved this book! You meet the the main characters, young and unsure. You see them start to grow. They pull you into their trials as they find out about themselves. Cannot wait for the next book!