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Grim #1
Storm Warrior
Enslaved for millennia by the masters of the Welsh faery realm, the fierce Celtic warrior Rhys is doomed to wander the earth forever. But when a brave beauty unwittingly breaks the enchantment, he is drawn into a strange new world…and an all-consuming desire.
Sensible Morgan doesn’t believe in magic—until a mysterious being saves her from a fate worse than death, and life as she knows it changes forever. Now the man of her dreams has become flesh and blood, igniting a spark in Morgan’s soul which science cannot explain. But even a love that transcends time may not be strong enough to withstand the power of an ancient curse.
Sensible Morgan doesn’t believe in magic—until a mysterious being saves her from a fate worse than death, and life as she knows it changes forever. Now the man of her dreams has become flesh and blood, igniting a spark in Morgan’s soul which science cannot explain. But even a love that transcends time may not be strong enough to withstand the power of an ancient curse.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2011
1110 people are currently reading
2279 people want to read
About the author
Dani Harper
17 books787 followersLEGEND. LORE. LOVE. MAGIC.
These are the hallmarks of Dani Harper’s award-winning tales of faeries, shapeshifters, ghosts, and more, for a mature audience.
A former newspaper editor, Dani’s passion for all things supernatural led her to a second career writing fiction. There isn't anything she likes better than exploring myths and legends from many cultures, which serve to inspire her sizzling and suspenseful stories.
A longtime resident of the Canadian north and southeastern Alaska, she now lives in rural Washington with her retired mountain-man husband. Together they do battle with runaway garden gnomes, rampant fruit trees, and a roving herd of predatory chickens.
Dani Harper is the author of Storm Crossed, Storm Warned, Storm Bound, Storm Warrior (the Grim Series), as well as First Bite (Dark Wolf), for Montlake Romance. She is also the author of a Yuletide ghost story, The Holiday Spirit (Haunted Holiday Series), plus a popular shapeshifter series, which includes Changeling Moon, Changeling Dream, and Changeling Dawn.
For more, visit her website at http://www.daniharper.com.
See all Dani Harper's books on Amazon at http://amazon.com/author/daniharper
These are the hallmarks of Dani Harper’s award-winning tales of faeries, shapeshifters, ghosts, and more, for a mature audience.
A former newspaper editor, Dani’s passion for all things supernatural led her to a second career writing fiction. There isn't anything she likes better than exploring myths and legends from many cultures, which serve to inspire her sizzling and suspenseful stories.
A longtime resident of the Canadian north and southeastern Alaska, she now lives in rural Washington with her retired mountain-man husband. Together they do battle with runaway garden gnomes, rampant fruit trees, and a roving herd of predatory chickens.
Dani Harper is the author of Storm Crossed, Storm Warned, Storm Bound, Storm Warrior (the Grim Series), as well as First Bite (Dark Wolf), for Montlake Romance. She is also the author of a Yuletide ghost story, The Holiday Spirit (Haunted Holiday Series), plus a popular shapeshifter series, which includes Changeling Moon, Changeling Dream, and Changeling Dawn.
For more, visit her website at http://www.daniharper.com.
See all Dani Harper's books on Amazon at http://amazon.com/author/daniharper
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
July 17, 2018
This book saved my life while I was work today. I was so bored and falling asleep - then bam! Started listening to this bad boy and my day flew by. Before I knew it, I was home.
Storm Warrior was a pretty interesting book. It is about Morgan, the main character, going on a little trip to Wales. Now this random trip wasn't really planned because she did it in honor of her Grandmother, who just died. On her trip she meets a mysterious dog - now if you were in this situation would you: a) yell PUPPY! b) go pet the puppy c) call it a grim d)geek the fuck out 'cause it's a fucking puppy.
Depending on your answer, you are either into the spiritual stuff or a dog-lover. In the book, Morgan's friend says it looks like a grim and goes into detail about it portraying death and all. However, Morgan is a veterinarian (bonus points for her!) and she tries to help the dog rather than run away screaming.
Morgan was a pretty likable character. She wasn't easily afraid or annoying. I liked her chemistry with Rhys, even though I probably would've freaked out just like her over the whole no-dog-but-naked-man thing too. Even though they didn't really know each other, they definitely had this intense connection. I mean the sex dreams were so on point that I was just waiting for it to actually happen - ya know! Oh, and the accents on the audio book - swoooooooon-worthyyyyy!
At first, after finishing this and just wanting water and food, I wasn't really wanting to dive into the next book. However, after drinking and eating - I will definitely move onto the next book in this series. I just want to know more about this world and all of the creatures in it.
Storm Warrior was a pretty interesting book. It is about Morgan, the main character, going on a little trip to Wales. Now this random trip wasn't really planned because she did it in honor of her Grandmother, who just died. On her trip she meets a mysterious dog - now if you were in this situation would you: a) yell PUPPY! b) go pet the puppy c) call it a grim d)geek the fuck out 'cause it's a fucking puppy.
Depending on your answer, you are either into the spiritual stuff or a dog-lover. In the book, Morgan's friend says it looks like a grim and goes into detail about it portraying death and all. However, Morgan is a veterinarian (bonus points for her!) and she tries to help the dog rather than run away screaming.
Morgan was a pretty likable character. She wasn't easily afraid or annoying. I liked her chemistry with Rhys, even though I probably would've freaked out just like her over the whole no-dog-but-naked-man thing too. Even though they didn't really know each other, they definitely had this intense connection. I mean the sex dreams were so on point that I was just waiting for it to actually happen - ya know! Oh, and the accents on the audio book - swoooooooon-worthyyyyy!
At first, after finishing this and just wanting water and food, I wasn't really wanting to dive into the next book. However, after drinking and eating - I will definitely move onto the next book in this series. I just want to know more about this world and all of the creatures in it.
March 31, 2018
My Opinion:
I enjoyed this book. At first I wasn't sure that was going to be the case. I was not digging the narrator's voice but then she did Rhys (sounds like Reese) and I fell in love. I can just imagine this sexy, strong and wild man talking and just fell in love with it all. As the book went on I found that I liked it and wanted to know when this couple would get together. There was A LOT of resistance from Morgan and she just couldn't come to terms with what is happening. I liked Morgan tho she was a strong female character and didn't fall in bed with Rhys right off the bat, but the attraction was there. Which I liked.
Morgan is a vet by trade and is visiting Wales and comes across a dog that she befriends. She has a strong pull towards the dog from being a vet and that the dog is so huge. Anyway she feeds it and sees it a few more times before she goes home to the US. Back in the US the same dog saves her from being attacked and she can't believe it is the same dog from her trip. She then decides to adopt it and on it's first night in her home - because of her kindness all along to this dog - the Fae have decided to break Rhys spell and he becomes a man. That's where all the fun begins. Of course Morgan can't believe it and doesn't know what happened to the dog. We meet Leo and all her friends from her vetintantary office and get the story of the old legends of the Fae.
I enjoyed this one and will most likely read another by Dani Harper. I liked how the chain had such significance to the story and hearing her grandmother's tales and hearing Rhys voice how the narrator portrayed it. Perfect. I totally enjoyed it. I would recommend for a light read.
I give this book 4 of 5 stars!
I enjoyed this book. At first I wasn't sure that was going to be the case. I was not digging the narrator's voice but then she did Rhys (sounds like Reese) and I fell in love. I can just imagine this sexy, strong and wild man talking and just fell in love with it all. As the book went on I found that I liked it and wanted to know when this couple would get together. There was A LOT of resistance from Morgan and she just couldn't come to terms with what is happening. I liked Morgan tho she was a strong female character and didn't fall in bed with Rhys right off the bat, but the attraction was there. Which I liked.
Morgan is a vet by trade and is visiting Wales and comes across a dog that she befriends. She has a strong pull towards the dog from being a vet and that the dog is so huge. Anyway she feeds it and sees it a few more times before she goes home to the US. Back in the US the same dog saves her from being attacked and she can't believe it is the same dog from her trip. She then decides to adopt it and on it's first night in her home - because of her kindness all along to this dog - the Fae have decided to break Rhys spell and he becomes a man. That's where all the fun begins. Of course Morgan can't believe it and doesn't know what happened to the dog. We meet Leo and all her friends from her vetintantary office and get the story of the old legends of the Fae.
I enjoyed this one and will most likely read another by Dani Harper. I liked how the chain had such significance to the story and hearing her grandmother's tales and hearing Rhys voice how the narrator portrayed it. Perfect. I totally enjoyed it. I would recommend for a light read.
I give this book 4 of 5 stars!
Read
February 14, 2015I'm excited to bring this story to my readers. Storm Warrior began its life as a short novella, A Leap of Knowing. But there was SO much more to tell! The story is now an exciting full-length novel, kicking off The Grim Series from Montlake Romance (Amazon Publishing).
Book 2, Storm Bound, is now out.
Book 3, Storm Warned, releases March 31. Available now for pre-order.
Book 2, Storm Bound, is now out.
Book 3, Storm Warned, releases March 31. Available now for pre-order.
August 24, 2013
First book in this "Grim" series involving the fae, who transform warriors into mastiff dogs to forever serve the malicious fae as a kind of "grim" -- a harbinger of death, not a soul reaper. The book starts 2000 years ago in Old England but quickly moves to contemporary Spokane, Washington.
I liked the Welsh words sprinkled here and there. It seems the author did a little research regarding the Romans on old Briton, and the Welsh (so they invented soap? That rings a bell). She also appeared to research the old beliefs in faerie folk, the Wild Hunt, the Fair Ones. I appreciate the research and the careful editing (no typos noticed).
Some sweet parts, especially with animals. (Morgan, the heroine, is a vet). Some mildly amusing scenes, and a few absorbing action scenes. Several clichés, too (time and culture shock stuff -- naked warrior from the Roman Era can't button his shirt -- that kind of thing).
Sexy play began early on, in Morgan's dreams. Apparently she wet her panties, but it did nothing for me. No emotional attachment yet. Even later, when it was for real, it just left me unmoved. No subtlety. Little emotion. Plus, she got all riled up, blowing cold again, after.
The stone taken from the creature's forehead was cool. The wee magical ellyll guy (Raynan sp?) was cute, but all the scenes with him read like a children's book. I don't need sex, swearing, alcohol and violence to make it more adult, just .... I dunno. Something less simplisitic. Good guys were good and bad were bad. Lots of camaraderie among the good guys. It lacked nuance. The author has the foundation, but she needs to develop style.
I quite liked that scene in the doghouse, with Fred. Hah! The shrink is in.
Morgan was irritating. She was too slow to catch on, and too mean to Rhys. In the fourth quarter she finally shaped up.
Gwen. I knew something was up with her, but didn't see that twist coming. Cool.
Contents: Explicit dream sex and real sex, a few instances of religious profanity, some violence, no scenes involving children. No typos found. None at all. I said that already, but frankly, it's rare. Poor editing is becoming the norm in too many e-books.
I liked the Welsh words sprinkled here and there. It seems the author did a little research regarding the Romans on old Briton, and the Welsh (so they invented soap? That rings a bell). She also appeared to research the old beliefs in faerie folk, the Wild Hunt, the Fair Ones. I appreciate the research and the careful editing (no typos noticed).
Some sweet parts, especially with animals. (Morgan, the heroine, is a vet). Some mildly amusing scenes, and a few absorbing action scenes. Several clichés, too (time and culture shock stuff -- naked warrior from the Roman Era can't button his shirt -- that kind of thing).
Sexy play began early on, in Morgan's dreams. Apparently she wet her panties, but it did nothing for me. No emotional attachment yet. Even later, when it was for real, it just left me unmoved. No subtlety. Little emotion. Plus, she got all riled up, blowing cold again, after.
The stone taken from the creature's forehead was cool. The wee magical ellyll guy (Raynan sp?) was cute, but all the scenes with him read like a children's book. I don't need sex, swearing, alcohol and violence to make it more adult, just .... I dunno. Something less simplisitic. Good guys were good and bad were bad. Lots of camaraderie among the good guys. It lacked nuance. The author has the foundation, but she needs to develop style.
I quite liked that scene in the doghouse, with Fred. Hah! The shrink is in.
Morgan was irritating. She was too slow to catch on, and too mean to Rhys. In the fourth quarter she finally shaped up.
Gwen. I knew something was up with her, but didn't see that twist coming. Cool.
Contents: Explicit dream sex and real sex, a few instances of religious profanity, some violence, no scenes involving children. No typos found. None at all. I said that already, but frankly, it's rare. Poor editing is becoming the norm in too many e-books.
August 19, 2013
Rhys is more than what he appears and when Morgan breaks a spell that had him bound, she thinks she is facing a crazy, gorgeous but crazy crazy guy (naked too!).
Morgan is a Vet that works long hours and she has had no time for love so when Rhys appears, the same guy from her dreams, she is torn in two, her heart and her head fight over what she should and shouldn't do!
It's a Fae story, The Fair Ones want Rhys back, they are cruel and beyond feeling but Morgan, eventually, decides to fight and the battle is a good one!!!
I love Dani Harper's Changeling series, they were among my favourite books when I read them so I was eager to get my hands on this book (and I'm anticipating her next release too!!!). I wasn't disappointed, the writing style still flows nicely, it is easy to read and very easy to imagine the world in which Dani writes about. I love the idea of this series and I think Storm Warrior was a nice introduction to a world that Dani has created.
I am really looking forward to the next book!
Morgan is a Vet that works long hours and she has had no time for love so when Rhys appears, the same guy from her dreams, she is torn in two, her heart and her head fight over what she should and shouldn't do!
It's a Fae story, The Fair Ones want Rhys back, they are cruel and beyond feeling but Morgan, eventually, decides to fight and the battle is a good one!!!
I love Dani Harper's Changeling series, they were among my favourite books when I read them so I was eager to get my hands on this book (and I'm anticipating her next release too!!!). I wasn't disappointed, the writing style still flows nicely, it is easy to read and very easy to imagine the world in which Dani writes about. I love the idea of this series and I think Storm Warrior was a nice introduction to a world that Dani has created.
I am really looking forward to the next book!
September 26, 2017
Frustrating
It was a good read but I got really fed up with Morgan at times. She was just so annoyingly unbelieving that you wanted to punch her in the face. I listened to the story, but yet again had to stop the car at a good spot so I read some. The side characters were wonderful and they did make the story even better.
Rhys was sexy and just so sweet. He put up with a lot from Morgan. He needed to have sainthood.
Great original story line. Will read/listen to the next
It was a good read but I got really fed up with Morgan at times. She was just so annoyingly unbelieving that you wanted to punch her in the face. I listened to the story, but yet again had to stop the car at a good spot so I read some. The side characters were wonderful and they did make the story even better.
Rhys was sexy and just so sweet. He put up with a lot from Morgan. He needed to have sainthood.
Great original story line. Will read/listen to the next
November 23, 2015
The description of this book leads you to believe that she sees something paranormal and is forced to believe in unexplainable things. In actuality it takes her until almost 90% to believe what the hero is telling her. Almost the whole book is the guy doing nice things to win this girl's affection, and her avoiding him, calling him crazy, being mad at him, or just to mix things up- her being mad at him, calling him crazy, and then avoiding him- or any variation of those three. Gets old and redundant really quickly. Had really high hopes, but just ended up annoyed and frustrated. I will not be continuing with the series.
December 26, 2020
This book started out good but about half way through I found the the interaction with the main characters a bit stiff and boring, thankfully the story it's self was good enough to take me to the last page.
August 4, 2013
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
Storm Warrior is a cute, light, paranormal romance with memorable characters and a delightful story that’s easy to like. The plot’s fairly straightforward which made the more complex Faerie lore easier to grasp and I loved that this book features a Grim! As omens of death their role in the paranormal world is somewhat limited; they’re more observers than do-ers so Harper really had to pay special attention to her mythology and shape it accordingly and she does by incorporating many different types of faeries. My only complaint is that there wasn’t enough action but that’s often the case of a first installment in a series so I won’t hold that against Dani.
In many ways this novel felt more like time travel fiction than a paranormal romance because Rhys becomes mortal very early on in this book and spends the rest of it learning how to live in the 21st century. Although he’s been a silent observer for a thousand years, he spent them as a mastiff (dog) so he has little use for things like cars and the internet. I enjoyed watching him re-learn the intricacies of human society and his attempts to convince Morgan that he’s a millennia old Celt were beyond entertaining. As a vet, her beliefs are rooted in science so accepting that faeries and Grims are real is quite a stretch for her. I was happy that Harper developed her Faerie lore to the extent that she did because without it, this novel would have been very un-paranormal.
I actually enjoyed the side characters more than the main protagonists in this story; Leo and Ranyon were definitely my two favourites but I also liked the other veterinarians that work with Morgan. Leo’s a sweet old man who quickly becomes one of Rhys’ best friends and Ranyon is an ellyll which is kind of a mix between a brownie and a tree-type creature. I loved that he was a Blue Jay’s fan! A big thank you to Dani Harper for that fun, little, Canadian Easter egg! She also did her Faerie research before writing this book and it showed; her lore about the Tylwyth Teg, barghest and The Hunt was rich and enthralling.
Rhys is definitely fictional boyfriend material; I loved everything about him from his sexy tattoo, to his Celtic accent to his… personality. I had to include that last one just to make me feel less superficial. I wish he’d spent more of this book as a Grim instead of a mortal though but I have a feeling that the Fair Ones aren’t through with him yet. As much as I respected and admired Morgan’s level-headedness and independence, her inability to accept the truth that was right in front of her nose did irritate me. I mean really, who cares if Rhys thinks he’s a thousand year old Celtic warrior! Haven’t you ever heard of bedroom role play? They eventually do work things out but it took too long in my opinion; I would have preferred a bit more sexy time!
Dani Harper has a real talent for writing great paranormal romances; she first drew me in with her Changeling series and now she’s hooked me with her first Grim installment. Storm Warrior is the perfect mix of sizzle and supernatural plus, you can’t go wrong with a smokin’ hot Grim!
Storm Warrior is a cute, light, paranormal romance with memorable characters and a delightful story that’s easy to like. The plot’s fairly straightforward which made the more complex Faerie lore easier to grasp and I loved that this book features a Grim! As omens of death their role in the paranormal world is somewhat limited; they’re more observers than do-ers so Harper really had to pay special attention to her mythology and shape it accordingly and she does by incorporating many different types of faeries. My only complaint is that there wasn’t enough action but that’s often the case of a first installment in a series so I won’t hold that against Dani.
In many ways this novel felt more like time travel fiction than a paranormal romance because Rhys becomes mortal very early on in this book and spends the rest of it learning how to live in the 21st century. Although he’s been a silent observer for a thousand years, he spent them as a mastiff (dog) so he has little use for things like cars and the internet. I enjoyed watching him re-learn the intricacies of human society and his attempts to convince Morgan that he’s a millennia old Celt were beyond entertaining. As a vet, her beliefs are rooted in science so accepting that faeries and Grims are real is quite a stretch for her. I was happy that Harper developed her Faerie lore to the extent that she did because without it, this novel would have been very un-paranormal.
I actually enjoyed the side characters more than the main protagonists in this story; Leo and Ranyon were definitely my two favourites but I also liked the other veterinarians that work with Morgan. Leo’s a sweet old man who quickly becomes one of Rhys’ best friends and Ranyon is an ellyll which is kind of a mix between a brownie and a tree-type creature. I loved that he was a Blue Jay’s fan! A big thank you to Dani Harper for that fun, little, Canadian Easter egg! She also did her Faerie research before writing this book and it showed; her lore about the Tylwyth Teg, barghest and The Hunt was rich and enthralling.
Rhys is definitely fictional boyfriend material; I loved everything about him from his sexy tattoo, to his Celtic accent to his… personality. I had to include that last one just to make me feel less superficial. I wish he’d spent more of this book as a Grim instead of a mortal though but I have a feeling that the Fair Ones aren’t through with him yet. As much as I respected and admired Morgan’s level-headedness and independence, her inability to accept the truth that was right in front of her nose did irritate me. I mean really, who cares if Rhys thinks he’s a thousand year old Celtic warrior! Haven’t you ever heard of bedroom role play? They eventually do work things out but it took too long in my opinion; I would have preferred a bit more sexy time!
Dani Harper has a real talent for writing great paranormal romances; she first drew me in with her Changeling series and now she’s hooked me with her first Grim installment. Storm Warrior is the perfect mix of sizzle and supernatural plus, you can’t go wrong with a smokin’ hot Grim!
August 5, 2016
3.5 stars - Celtic warrior Rhys escaped his Roman captors only to become slave to the Fae, but when -after centuries of servitude as a herald of death - his path crosses with vet Morgan, her kindness and compassion win him over and he vows to become her protector only to discover that Morgan's kindness has released him from his curse. But his Fae masters are not going to give him up that easily ...
First off I really did end up enjoying Storm Warrior, but when Rhys wakes up naked in Morgan's home the morning after she brings him home (in dog form) I wasn't thrilled - this is a very over used beginning to a fair number of shifter romances. There were also some dream sex scenes early on before the heroine meets the hero `in the flesh' for the first time that seemed to be there only to add some steam to the beginning of the story. It wasn't until Morgan has the `crazy' naked Rhys hauled off to jail and the pair go their separate ways for a while that I really got hooked.
There are some really good secondary characters in the story and it is their relationships with the leads that really allow us to get to know the leads and it is those relationships as they carry through the story that really `makes' this book. There are some fun bits with some renaissance role players and an appealing Fae character who also plays a part in the background arc too - which I liked. The romance is there but not overwhelmingly sexy (despite those early dream scenes) and the leads get to know each other before the 'needs a logical explanation for everything' leading Morgan takes a leap to be with the leading man who she thinks might be a bit crazy.
So, despite a slow start "all's well that ends well" and I ended up liking this series starter, which is apparently expanded from a short story, A Leap of Knowing, (I suspect that I can see the bones of that story in this one - I think the a fore mentioned dream sequences are artifacts from the original -and this is better) and I also think that we might have met the next up cursed lead.
In addition to the Grim series, Harper also has another series starting this fall with First Bite (The Dark Wolf Series) which sounds like it may be a spinoff from her Changeling series.
ARC via the Amazon Vine - release date August 6th
First off I really did end up enjoying Storm Warrior, but when Rhys wakes up naked in Morgan's home the morning after she brings him home (in dog form) I wasn't thrilled - this is a very over used beginning to a fair number of shifter romances. There were also some dream sex scenes early on before the heroine meets the hero `in the flesh' for the first time that seemed to be there only to add some steam to the beginning of the story. It wasn't until Morgan has the `crazy' naked Rhys hauled off to jail and the pair go their separate ways for a while that I really got hooked.
There are some really good secondary characters in the story and it is their relationships with the leads that really allow us to get to know the leads and it is those relationships as they carry through the story that really `makes' this book. There are some fun bits with some renaissance role players and an appealing Fae character who also plays a part in the background arc too - which I liked. The romance is there but not overwhelmingly sexy (despite those early dream scenes) and the leads get to know each other before the 'needs a logical explanation for everything' leading Morgan takes a leap to be with the leading man who she thinks might be a bit crazy.
So, despite a slow start "all's well that ends well" and I ended up liking this series starter, which is apparently expanded from a short story, A Leap of Knowing, (I suspect that I can see the bones of that story in this one - I think the a fore mentioned dream sequences are artifacts from the original -and this is better) and I also think that we might have met the next up cursed lead.
In addition to the Grim series, Harper also has another series starting this fall with First Bite (The Dark Wolf Series) which sounds like it may be a spinoff from her Changeling series.
ARC via the Amazon Vine - release date August 6th
August 14, 2015
Thank you for such a fabulous read Ms. Harper. Such a awesome read with great characters and plot. Also an added bonus as it isn't about Irish or Scottish Fae but Welsh. 3.5 Stars. Can't wit for the next book.
August 2, 2013
A chivalrous romantic hero, unusual Celtic mythology, and dogs. If you are looking for something a little different in the PNR genre give this a try. You can tell a lot of Welsh history and mythology research went into the creation of this story and Harper skillfully blended fact and fiction. I felt like I learned some things without being hit over the head with it.
This is more of a character driven story. There is an outside conflict that affects the everyone, but the book focuses more on the internal conflicts of the characters and their relationships. All the characters are goodhearted, quirky and easily likable. The fae in the story are true to the myths with their superiority complexes. What I liked most about the hero is he doesn't try to bully the heroine into believing his outlandish story of fairies, grims and 2000 year old warriors. He is so patient and feels it is more important for her to trust and therefore believe him in spite of what logic dictates. Rhys is the perfect swoon worthy hero. I could spend the whole review talking about how charming this guy is .
This is a fast read and all round feel good story. I enjoy Harper’s storytelling style, and her description of the coming of the Wild Hunt made me want to take cover! And I never felt like going all Bunny Foo Foo on the heroine (you know, scoop her up and bop her on the head). If you are a PNR fan you won’t be disappointed. If you aren't a big PNR fan (like me) go ahead and step out of your box and enjoy the romance.
Quote-a-licious:
“As she peeked through the curtains with the phone in her hand, waiting for the police dispatcher to pick up, she realized there was one thing she did know about the naked stranger in her yard. He had, without a doubt, the finest butt on the planet.”
“Rhys was hot enough to bake cookies on.”
“Romans and fairies and death dogs, oh my.”
5 “Tylwyth Teg” Sheep
http://www.ismellsheep.com/2013/08/bo...
This is more of a character driven story. There is an outside conflict that affects the everyone, but the book focuses more on the internal conflicts of the characters and their relationships. All the characters are goodhearted, quirky and easily likable. The fae in the story are true to the myths with their superiority complexes. What I liked most about the hero is he doesn't try to bully the heroine into believing his outlandish story of fairies, grims and 2000 year old warriors. He is so patient and feels it is more important for her to trust and therefore believe him in spite of what logic dictates. Rhys is the perfect swoon worthy hero. I could spend the whole review talking about how charming this guy is .
This is a fast read and all round feel good story. I enjoy Harper’s storytelling style, and her description of the coming of the Wild Hunt made me want to take cover! And I never felt like going all Bunny Foo Foo on the heroine (you know, scoop her up and bop her on the head). If you are a PNR fan you won’t be disappointed. If you aren't a big PNR fan (like me) go ahead and step out of your box and enjoy the romance.
Quote-a-licious:
“As she peeked through the curtains with the phone in her hand, waiting for the police dispatcher to pick up, she realized there was one thing she did know about the naked stranger in her yard. He had, without a doubt, the finest butt on the planet.”
“Rhys was hot enough to bake cookies on.”
“Romans and fairies and death dogs, oh my.”
5 “Tylwyth Teg” Sheep
http://www.ismellsheep.com/2013/08/bo...
August 7, 2013
Hm... a the fae, a veterinarian, a BIG puppy (mastiff), lots of other animals, a few rescues, and an alpha male who is patient, kind and has a way with animals. Yea, you can say I enjoyed this PNR. The heroine, Morgan, only believes in science but has a big heart for all animals. She works hard at her profession and in fact is so busy she has to hire out for help.
Oh but do I want to reveal more? It's not a hard book to figure out nor are there a lot of big twists to the tale, but I enjoyed exploring what happened to the characters in this book. I want you to do the same. I will say that I really enjoyed these characters. Morgan is a sensible but kind hearted person who leads with her heart with animals but with her head when it comes to romance. However Rhys may change her mind. Oh and Rhys. Not your typical needing a kick in the arse alpha male. He is kind, and patient and is quick minded. He has been through hell but won't let that rule his life. I really enjoyed this hero.
I also should mention the secondary characters. Those were fun. There is a fae that is befriended that is a hoot and the old curmudgeon neighbor is someone who blossoms as the story goes along. There are also the unusual vet and his wife who have no problem believing in Rhys and what happened to him in the past. The couple is fun, but we don't get much of them, but I think we will get more of them as the series goes on. I think they could be the comic relief of the bunch when we do get more of the couple.
I give this book 4 stars. I enjoyed my time in this world and look forward to the next book in this series. I recommend it to those that enjoy PNR, animal rescue, animals in general and some smexy "best. butt. ever." (end quote). ;)
Oh but do I want to reveal more? It's not a hard book to figure out nor are there a lot of big twists to the tale, but I enjoyed exploring what happened to the characters in this book. I want you to do the same. I will say that I really enjoyed these characters. Morgan is a sensible but kind hearted person who leads with her heart with animals but with her head when it comes to romance. However Rhys may change her mind. Oh and Rhys. Not your typical needing a kick in the arse alpha male. He is kind, and patient and is quick minded. He has been through hell but won't let that rule his life. I really enjoyed this hero.
I also should mention the secondary characters. Those were fun. There is a fae that is befriended that is a hoot and the old curmudgeon neighbor is someone who blossoms as the story goes along. There are also the unusual vet and his wife who have no problem believing in Rhys and what happened to him in the past. The couple is fun, but we don't get much of them, but I think we will get more of them as the series goes on. I think they could be the comic relief of the bunch when we do get more of the couple.
I give this book 4 stars. I enjoyed my time in this world and look forward to the next book in this series. I recommend it to those that enjoy PNR, animal rescue, animals in general and some smexy "best. butt. ever." (end quote). ;)
August 13, 2016
3.5 stars - A solid start to a series. I love books that weave myth and fantasy together and pull it into the modern day. Storm Warrior is an enjoyable read and will hit the buzzer of fans who enjoy a modern twist on myth. My only challenge with the story was its sluggishness in spots of the story. There weren't any throw away elements in the least, just expedited perhaps. I did enjoy the end of the story when the queen revealed herself and who she was to Morgan -- nice twist.
Want to read
August 13, 2016I guess my free review copy was sent to my house from the marketing department of the author. I feel better now :)
April 7, 2019
What a great find! I scoured KU audio shelves for this beauty and boy was it a surprise. Let me start off by saying the narrator Justine Eyre is phenomenal! I'm pretty sure this woman could speak to me with that Welsh accent she does all day long and I would never tire of it! She reads beautifully and the accents are amazing! I am putting her on my favorite Narrator list for sure and probably will be picking up everything she reads!
Our FMC, Morgan a veterinarian is on vacation in Wales, discovering the sites and savoring the history. Reminded of her childhood and her grandmother's tales of the fae realm. On her journey she notices a black mastiff following the tour bus. Bringing out her kind vet heart she attempts to befriend the beast. Rhys (freaking love his name) has been trapped in the form of a grim for centuries. Carrying out his duties as death's messenger he only appears to those that are fated soon to die. Rhys is both confounded and intrigued by this little woman who is hell bent on showing him kindness. Journeying half way across the world in a split second he decides he will suffer her fate for her.. In return she labors to save this beautiful dogs life. These acts of kindness break the collar which he has carried for centuries now. Now a man.. centuries later he must acclimate to his new life, and also avoid the fae that cursed him to begin with. Morgan not knowing what to do with this big delicious warrior who has just turned up in her life must come to grips with the stories of her childhood and learn to trust or give up what could be a love to last a lifetime..
This book was a surprise in more ways than just the narrator. Storm Warrior had a really unique contemporary romance feel with just a touch of supernatural fantasy that made me hungry for more in the series. I feel like today a lot of authors focus their hero and heroines toward the gray.. focus on the flaws of their characters, creating a journey not only of the character but the story as well. Sometimes though, that might get a little exhausting for the reader especially if said reader, reads A LOT of books. It was so nice and refreshing to read this book, where the hero is in fact the epitome of a hero, honorable, strong willed, kindhearted, and willing and capable of fighting off evil and facing the enemy down for the power of love.. I loved how we journeyed with the characters through their story and at the same time there is this underlying backstory starting. I so look forward to continuing this series and seeing what else we have in store here.
Our FMC, Morgan a veterinarian is on vacation in Wales, discovering the sites and savoring the history. Reminded of her childhood and her grandmother's tales of the fae realm. On her journey she notices a black mastiff following the tour bus. Bringing out her kind vet heart she attempts to befriend the beast. Rhys (freaking love his name) has been trapped in the form of a grim for centuries. Carrying out his duties as death's messenger he only appears to those that are fated soon to die. Rhys is both confounded and intrigued by this little woman who is hell bent on showing him kindness. Journeying half way across the world in a split second he decides he will suffer her fate for her.. In return she labors to save this beautiful dogs life. These acts of kindness break the collar which he has carried for centuries now. Now a man.. centuries later he must acclimate to his new life, and also avoid the fae that cursed him to begin with. Morgan not knowing what to do with this big delicious warrior who has just turned up in her life must come to grips with the stories of her childhood and learn to trust or give up what could be a love to last a lifetime..
This book was a surprise in more ways than just the narrator. Storm Warrior had a really unique contemporary romance feel with just a touch of supernatural fantasy that made me hungry for more in the series. I feel like today a lot of authors focus their hero and heroines toward the gray.. focus on the flaws of their characters, creating a journey not only of the character but the story as well. Sometimes though, that might get a little exhausting for the reader especially if said reader, reads A LOT of books. It was so nice and refreshing to read this book, where the hero is in fact the epitome of a hero, honorable, strong willed, kindhearted, and willing and capable of fighting off evil and facing the enemy down for the power of love.. I loved how we journeyed with the characters through their story and at the same time there is this underlying backstory starting. I so look forward to continuing this series and seeing what else we have in store here.
March 6, 2018
After enjoying Storm Crossed, the fourth book in the Grim series, a chance to return to Dani Harper's fae world was not to be missed. I hadn't read/listened to the earlier books, but after completing book four, it was not an if, but a when.
I was tickled to see that Storm Warrior was offered as one of the Amazon Prime member loan books, oh, but I did that one better. I borrowed the book in electronic print version and then paid the slight additional fee to add the Audible edition which is now mine to keep since I love the narrator's work.
Storm Warrior begins with a prologue set two thousand years before and tells the bittersweet tale of a Celtic Warrior determined to drive the Romans out of his little corner of Britain. He is captured, made to become a gladiator, escapes, and then is cursed by the fae to become a grim- a harbinger of death. Then, the story leaps forward to contemporary times and an American veterinarian, Morgan, is on vacation in Wales to draw comfort after her grandmother's death in the country and culture of her gran. She encounters a grim, a huge dog that legend says heralds death to the one who sees it. And later, she accidentally frees the grim dog from his curse.
I was delighted by this story of skeptical Morgan (at first) and honorable yet befuddled Rhys who has to get used to the modern human world. He might have been a tad confused about the whole clothing (not) optional in public part or why wielding weapons of war is reduced to games at a Ren Faire. I enjoyed all of the engaging and fun side characters including Morgan's vet friend, Jay and his wife, Star, and Rhys' newfound elderly friend, Leo, the animals, Rhys' warrior action at the Renaissance Faire and the adorable way Rhys takes Leo's advice about women and sets out to court the stubborn and willfully blind Morgan.
The fly in the ointment hit about half-way for me. It was Morgan's unbending stubbornness about not even giving Rhys a chance. Oh, I get that it shouldn't be instant that an intellectual science-type believes in fairy wings and unicorns, but days and weeks go by with more and more inexplicable evidence piling up that can only be explained if Rhys told her the truth. Her friends and coworkers believe in him, but of course they'll believe anything, she convinces herself. I got the impression that even if she didn't think he was a crazy liar, she had abandonment issues and would have pushed him away all those times anyway which, again, was frustrating because she's attracted and likes him and he has done all he could to show he cares for her and she sees it- gifts, fixing up her farm, and standing by her when she keeps shoving him away (and then gets hopping mad or wistful when she thinks he actually left).
I loved this story, don't get me wrong, especially when the fae made it interesting, but the romance element was pretty much a bust for me because it was all one-sided. In fact, Morgan's issues made the whole middle of this book slog by as she had the heart vs. mind mental battle every few pages, it seemed. She just put it off too long and then came surging forward in the end when a certain full on fae spectacle finally forced her. And, then, I had to laugh because she went from completely stubborn about their non-existence to completely Xena Iron wielding princess to the rescue against a bunch of magic wielding fae. That ending was definitely the most exciting and page-turning part of the book and balanced things out after the middle slow parts.
The narration was in the hands of the fabulous Justine Eyre. I've enjoyed other books she has narrated and this one was just as well done. She does male and female, accents, timing, and emotion quiet well. There is a real sense of the fae as separate from the human and she makes it easy to hear the Welsh and the fae words.
So, all in all, I was glad to have gone back to the beginning to get Morgan and Rhys' story and meet several of who would become series side characters like Leo and Ranyon. Those who enjoy a good solid backstory and legend of faerie in their paranormal romance should definitely pick this series up.
I was tickled to see that Storm Warrior was offered as one of the Amazon Prime member loan books, oh, but I did that one better. I borrowed the book in electronic print version and then paid the slight additional fee to add the Audible edition which is now mine to keep since I love the narrator's work.
Storm Warrior begins with a prologue set two thousand years before and tells the bittersweet tale of a Celtic Warrior determined to drive the Romans out of his little corner of Britain. He is captured, made to become a gladiator, escapes, and then is cursed by the fae to become a grim- a harbinger of death. Then, the story leaps forward to contemporary times and an American veterinarian, Morgan, is on vacation in Wales to draw comfort after her grandmother's death in the country and culture of her gran. She encounters a grim, a huge dog that legend says heralds death to the one who sees it. And later, she accidentally frees the grim dog from his curse.
I was delighted by this story of skeptical Morgan (at first) and honorable yet befuddled Rhys who has to get used to the modern human world. He might have been a tad confused about the whole clothing (not) optional in public part or why wielding weapons of war is reduced to games at a Ren Faire. I enjoyed all of the engaging and fun side characters including Morgan's vet friend, Jay and his wife, Star, and Rhys' newfound elderly friend, Leo, the animals, Rhys' warrior action at the Renaissance Faire and the adorable way Rhys takes Leo's advice about women and sets out to court the stubborn and willfully blind Morgan.
The fly in the ointment hit about half-way for me. It was Morgan's unbending stubbornness about not even giving Rhys a chance. Oh, I get that it shouldn't be instant that an intellectual science-type believes in fairy wings and unicorns, but days and weeks go by with more and more inexplicable evidence piling up that can only be explained if Rhys told her the truth. Her friends and coworkers believe in him, but of course they'll believe anything, she convinces herself. I got the impression that even if she didn't think he was a crazy liar, she had abandonment issues and would have pushed him away all those times anyway which, again, was frustrating because she's attracted and likes him and he has done all he could to show he cares for her and she sees it- gifts, fixing up her farm, and standing by her when she keeps shoving him away (and then gets hopping mad or wistful when she thinks he actually left).
I loved this story, don't get me wrong, especially when the fae made it interesting, but the romance element was pretty much a bust for me because it was all one-sided. In fact, Morgan's issues made the whole middle of this book slog by as she had the heart vs. mind mental battle every few pages, it seemed. She just put it off too long and then came surging forward in the end when a certain full on fae spectacle finally forced her. And, then, I had to laugh because she went from completely stubborn about their non-existence to completely Xena Iron wielding princess to the rescue against a bunch of magic wielding fae. That ending was definitely the most exciting and page-turning part of the book and balanced things out after the middle slow parts.
The narration was in the hands of the fabulous Justine Eyre. I've enjoyed other books she has narrated and this one was just as well done. She does male and female, accents, timing, and emotion quiet well. There is a real sense of the fae as separate from the human and she makes it easy to hear the Welsh and the fae words.
So, all in all, I was glad to have gone back to the beginning to get Morgan and Rhys' story and meet several of who would become series side characters like Leo and Ranyon. Those who enjoy a good solid backstory and legend of faerie in their paranormal romance should definitely pick this series up.
June 2, 2018
Morgan takes a trip to Wales to honor her deceased grandmother. While there, she keeps seeing a mysterious giant black dog. Her friend thinks it is a "grim" that portends death; however, as a veterinarian, Morgan is more interested in seeking out the dog instead of running away from it.
I thought this was a good balance between steamy romance and paranormal fantasy. While I was frustrated at times with Morgan's sensibility and her mixed signals, I wasn't completely annoyed with her -- and I loved Rhys. I'm willing to read another book by this author.
I thought this was a good balance between steamy romance and paranormal fantasy. While I was frustrated at times with Morgan's sensibility and her mixed signals, I wasn't completely annoyed with her -- and I loved Rhys. I'm willing to read another book by this author.
May 29, 2021
Great read!
I truly enjoyed this book. Didn't really know what to expect but absolutely loved it.
The main characters are so fun and the story is great. Loved loved loved the audio for this. The accents were great and it really helped having it for all the words I couldn't pronounce. Loved the culture, history and fae bits. Such a great story. Not very steamy, but the romance was there. The steamy bits are part of dreams but totally worked with the story.
I recommend this book and I will be moving on to the next one.
I truly enjoyed this book. Didn't really know what to expect but absolutely loved it.
The main characters are so fun and the story is great. Loved loved loved the audio for this. The accents were great and it really helped having it for all the words I couldn't pronounce. Loved the culture, history and fae bits. Such a great story. Not very steamy, but the romance was there. The steamy bits are part of dreams but totally worked with the story.
I recommend this book and I will be moving on to the next one.
January 12, 2019
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I was super conflicted with this book.
In the end, I really don't care for Morgan at all.
I was more in love with the idea of this book than with the execution of it.
There were some really detailed steamy scenes early on - and pretty much zero plot.
There finally ended up being more plot later on, and no steam.
I thought the balance ended up rather odd.
HOWEVER
I'm going to give the rest of this series a chance. I love the idea of Grim's and Fae and I'm hoping the others have similar concepts from what I can tell.
I was super conflicted with this book.
In the end, I really don't care for Morgan at all.
I was more in love with the idea of this book than with the execution of it.
There were some really detailed steamy scenes early on - and pretty much zero plot.
There finally ended up being more plot later on, and no steam.
I thought the balance ended up rather odd.
HOWEVER
I'm going to give the rest of this series a chance. I love the idea of Grim's and Fae and I'm hoping the others have similar concepts from what I can tell.
July 30, 2018
I’m so on the fence about this book. On one hand, it was cute and I really liked it. But on the other hand it was so predictable. I just don’t know how I feel about it. The smut was good. I think that’s the best thing about this book. The story line wasn’t really there. You really didn’t know anything about the characters. This was just simple. Vanilla. Bleh.
June 9, 2018
4/5 ⭐
This was definitely a lot better of a book then the one I previously read by this author. I loved the setting and the mythical lore and the characters.
This was definitely a lot better of a book then the one I previously read by this author. I loved the setting and the mythical lore and the characters.
August 9, 2013
Original Post: http://fangswandsandfairydust.blogspo... with a giveaway!
I feel I have been on a ride with Dani from the start of her popular publishing career. And, I have always enjoyed, and even loved, her stories. But STORM WARRIOR felt like a quantum leap in my experience of Dani's writing. I really, really enjoyed it. I hope this also signals a similar leap in her career and that it brings her even more success. Plainly put, it stunned me.
I was not expecting the pure impact and sizzle of STORM WARRIOR. From the dramatic prologue rooted in pre-history to the expansion of that mythology into modern thought requiring a paradigm shift in the heroine's beliefs, to the heat generated between Rhys and Morgan, this entire book was really amazing.
The plotting was superb and complex; no seat-of-the-pantedness here: this story took research, planning and structure.
The characters were interesting and different: no one was, or acted, as expected. Since reading Laurell K. Hamilton's Meredith Gentry series and Karen Marie Moning's Fever series I have long given up the idea of the Tinkerbelle fae. But it's still hard to accept the modern adult paranormal romance version of the fae in all their nasty amoral weirdness. Yes, fae lack human morality, and that is well demonstrated here. The fae in modern paranormal writing are a failed potential for good -- they are the failure of all the Glindas of our childhoods. The popularized, sanitized fae have lately been brought 180 degrees. They are not sweet and loving creatures who are helpfully completing orders for shoes or serving our romantic needs. The post-Disney fairy more resembles the piskie of old.
They are: in either their beauteous seelie form or scary, nightmarishness, unseelie form -- the embodiment of self serving, impolitick ammorality. Rhys' experience more than emphasizes this. Faeries are like the contest you think you've won but which drains all your income.
Rhys' was cautious, dedicated and loyal in the extreme. Living forever would suck it you were the portent of death, and if those who could see you were either fae or destined to die. Living even a human span would be terrible without being able to experience true love, or if your love were only for a job. Friends provide the marrow of life between the meat of helpful vocation and passionate living. Friends and family who point us in the right direction, are the fated joy brought by being who you were meant to be.
That makes this book sound very, very serious. But while the story is dramatic, while there are frightening and even violent moments, the overall emotive quality is very positive, expansive and celebrates life. The story ignited my passion for life, for the written word and made me a firm believer in Dani's writing. No scientific explanantions attempted, the magic is purely impossible; entirely fantastic. The dichotomy between the magical and the scientific is a big theme in the book.
If I had to point to anything being bothersome it is the Welsh; it has to be the most wonderful, and frustrating of languages. I need a pronunciation guide. Dani is not alone in this -- many writers give us the Welsh without any English equivalent. Yikes.
If you love Celtic Mythology and paranormal romantic fantasy mixed with contemporary steamy romance this is an ABSOLUTE MUST READ. The book is so much better than anything I could stay about it.
I feel I have been on a ride with Dani from the start of her popular publishing career. And, I have always enjoyed, and even loved, her stories. But STORM WARRIOR felt like a quantum leap in my experience of Dani's writing. I really, really enjoyed it. I hope this also signals a similar leap in her career and that it brings her even more success. Plainly put, it stunned me.
I was not expecting the pure impact and sizzle of STORM WARRIOR. From the dramatic prologue rooted in pre-history to the expansion of that mythology into modern thought requiring a paradigm shift in the heroine's beliefs, to the heat generated between Rhys and Morgan, this entire book was really amazing.
The plotting was superb and complex; no seat-of-the-pantedness here: this story took research, planning and structure.
The characters were interesting and different: no one was, or acted, as expected. Since reading Laurell K. Hamilton's Meredith Gentry series and Karen Marie Moning's Fever series I have long given up the idea of the Tinkerbelle fae. But it's still hard to accept the modern adult paranormal romance version of the fae in all their nasty amoral weirdness. Yes, fae lack human morality, and that is well demonstrated here. The fae in modern paranormal writing are a failed potential for good -- they are the failure of all the Glindas of our childhoods. The popularized, sanitized fae have lately been brought 180 degrees. They are not sweet and loving creatures who are helpfully completing orders for shoes or serving our romantic needs. The post-Disney fairy more resembles the piskie of old.
They are: in either their beauteous seelie form or scary, nightmarishness, unseelie form -- the embodiment of self serving, impolitick ammorality. Rhys' experience more than emphasizes this. Faeries are like the contest you think you've won but which drains all your income.
Rhys' was cautious, dedicated and loyal in the extreme. Living forever would suck it you were the portent of death, and if those who could see you were either fae or destined to die. Living even a human span would be terrible without being able to experience true love, or if your love were only for a job. Friends provide the marrow of life between the meat of helpful vocation and passionate living. Friends and family who point us in the right direction, are the fated joy brought by being who you were meant to be.
That makes this book sound very, very serious. But while the story is dramatic, while there are frightening and even violent moments, the overall emotive quality is very positive, expansive and celebrates life. The story ignited my passion for life, for the written word and made me a firm believer in Dani's writing. No scientific explanantions attempted, the magic is purely impossible; entirely fantastic. The dichotomy between the magical and the scientific is a big theme in the book.
If I had to point to anything being bothersome it is the Welsh; it has to be the most wonderful, and frustrating of languages. I need a pronunciation guide. Dani is not alone in this -- many writers give us the Welsh without any English equivalent. Yikes.
If you love Celtic Mythology and paranormal romantic fantasy mixed with contemporary steamy romance this is an ABSOLUTE MUST READ. The book is so much better than anything I could stay about it.
March 17, 2014
This Review was first published on my blog Lecture toute une Aventure
My opinion:
Love it!! I has all I adore Celtic legends, super sexy AND deeply loyal warrior, sweet ( and steamy) romance, dogs and horses, faes both the bad side and the good ones….reading it for my birthday was a gift in itself. I was delighted
Now it’s true that while I enjoyed it fully, was swept by the action in this page turner book I also got frustrated more than once by Morgan…she was so king but close minded… I wanted to slap her to make her listen to herself. Little she listened and believed in her grandmother then it faded but how can she says she believes , trust her grandmother and at the same time not believe even for one second in faeries… it’s so contradictory. She has magic right under her eyes but she is afraid to believe I don’t know if it made me angrier or sadder… but I wanted her to open her yes.
Rhys suffered so much, it was really interesting to see his past, even shortly, then to see him in modern time because it helped me to see deeper in his personalities…and how apt and tender he is with animal had me won over completely. I would have loved to have him as a companion. Morgan frustrated me yes but deep inside I envied her too… how a good vet she is strong and determined to fight for the life in her hands… I don’t have that strength …she is also really kind (though obtuse at time^^). She is perfect for Rhys as she showed him indirectly that life wasn’t only battle… I loved to see him tend the farm…it was normal their romance would be slow built because he is respectful but the dreams did start being steamy right at the beginning ^^;; not a spark between them, an inferno
I also loved the secondary characters, Jay and his wife are so cute and special, Leo so kind and funny and Ranyon who is one of the good fae with his charm for anything^^. Gwen was also funny but i guessed her identity a little too easily though It didn’t impede my pleasure reading
If you want some story mixing paranormal romance, Celtic legends, with lovely and funny animals ( yes even spike^^), fae and gorgeous warrior… Try this one you will feel at paradise.
Score: 4,5/5
My opinion:
Love it!! I has all I adore Celtic legends, super sexy AND deeply loyal warrior, sweet ( and steamy) romance, dogs and horses, faes both the bad side and the good ones….reading it for my birthday was a gift in itself. I was delighted
Now it’s true that while I enjoyed it fully, was swept by the action in this page turner book I also got frustrated more than once by Morgan…she was so king but close minded… I wanted to slap her to make her listen to herself. Little she listened and believed in her grandmother then it faded but how can she says she believes , trust her grandmother and at the same time not believe even for one second in faeries… it’s so contradictory. She has magic right under her eyes but she is afraid to believe I don’t know if it made me angrier or sadder… but I wanted her to open her yes.
Rhys suffered so much, it was really interesting to see his past, even shortly, then to see him in modern time because it helped me to see deeper in his personalities…and how apt and tender he is with animal had me won over completely. I would have loved to have him as a companion. Morgan frustrated me yes but deep inside I envied her too… how a good vet she is strong and determined to fight for the life in her hands… I don’t have that strength …she is also really kind (though obtuse at time^^). She is perfect for Rhys as she showed him indirectly that life wasn’t only battle… I loved to see him tend the farm…it was normal their romance would be slow built because he is respectful but the dreams did start being steamy right at the beginning ^^;; not a spark between them, an inferno
I also loved the secondary characters, Jay and his wife are so cute and special, Leo so kind and funny and Ranyon who is one of the good fae with his charm for anything^^. Gwen was also funny but i guessed her identity a little too easily though It didn’t impede my pleasure reading
If you want some story mixing paranormal romance, Celtic legends, with lovely and funny animals ( yes even spike^^), fae and gorgeous warrior… Try this one you will feel at paradise.
Score: 4,5/5
December 19, 2016
Read it first on July 31, 2014, and it was great again..
Most of the complaints about this book were based on the heroine being too stubborn to believe Rhys was the dog and it took too long for her to accept it. I didn’t have a problem with that because there was so much more story going on around her stubbornness: Rhys’s backstory, his escape from the Romans and his fights in the arena and his thoughts about it, and his feelings about Morgan that made him want to protect her, and then his protection when she was attacked by the meth-head, his willingness to die for her, his excitement when he realized he was human again, after two thousand years of being a Grim for the Tylwyth Teg, his instant friendship with Leo, as they sat in jail together, then going home with Leo, then going with him to Morgan’s house, then going with Morgan to help and injured horse. AND that was only in the first 30%. So, no, I didn’t care that Morgan was stubborn. The excitement went on through the entire story. I loved this book as much this time as the first time I read it.
There was explicit sex in this book and swearing and the F-bomb was used 4 times.
And all the human characters, and one not so human, were fabulous: Ranyon, awesome little creature that he was, Jay and Starr, and sweet old Leo. I loved all of them.
As to the narration: Mostly Justine Eyre was OK but I really hated the voice she gave our hero Rhys.
Most of the complaints about this book were based on the heroine being too stubborn to believe Rhys was the dog and it took too long for her to accept it. I didn’t have a problem with that because there was so much more story going on around her stubbornness: Rhys’s backstory, his escape from the Romans and his fights in the arena and his thoughts about it, and his feelings about Morgan that made him want to protect her, and then his protection when she was attacked by the meth-head, his willingness to die for her, his excitement when he realized he was human again, after two thousand years of being a Grim for the Tylwyth Teg, his instant friendship with Leo, as they sat in jail together, then going home with Leo, then going with him to Morgan’s house, then going with Morgan to help and injured horse. AND that was only in the first 30%. So, no, I didn’t care that Morgan was stubborn. The excitement went on through the entire story. I loved this book as much this time as the first time I read it.
There was explicit sex in this book and swearing and the F-bomb was used 4 times.
And all the human characters, and one not so human, were fabulous: Ranyon, awesome little creature that he was, Jay and Starr, and sweet old Leo. I loved all of them.
As to the narration: Mostly Justine Eyre was OK but I really hated the voice she gave our hero Rhys.
March 19, 2018
The Grim Series by Dani Harper
FYI: this is a short review of the series so there will be a bit about each book in the review.
I loved this series and read all 4 books in a row [Storm Warrior, Storm Bound, Storm Warned, Storm Crossed]. Well actually I listened to all 4 books – I found it easier than trying to figure out the pronunciation of the occasional bit of Welsh. The narrator was outstanding – good use of voice, good pacing, and she got to figure out how to pronounce the Welsh.
The setting is Wales, the Nine Realms of the Tylwyth Teg [the Fae or Fair Folk of Welsh legend – if you're thinking of Tolkein's elves forget it – although impossibly beautiful most of them are NOT pleasant and tend to look upon others as toys or pawns], and modern Washington State. The author mixes the politics of the Nine Realms, the Wild Hunt, Grims [a Grim is a great black dog that serves as a herald of death], and modern Washington with a side order of Ren Faires. She does a good job of giving you what you need to know about Welsh history and mythology within the story flow without burying you in facts.
Storm Warrior
Hero: Rhys, a Welsh warrior who fought against the Romans approximately 2000 years ago. After escaping from the Romans he is captured by the Tylwyth Teg and turned a Grim.
Heroine: Morgan, a Washington veterinarian, visits Wales as part of a tour. She keeps seeing this huge black dog everywhere they go and feels sorry for it and offers it kindness. After returning to Washington she is attacked and would have died, should have died, but the Grim intervenes sacrificing his immortality to save her. He is badly injured but she is determined to save him, taking him home to care for him after the surgery to save his life. She is very surprised to find a naked man in place of her dog the next morning, almost as surprised as he is…
The remainder of the story involves Rhys finding a place in Morgan's world and Morgan's life – with many complications thrown in by the Tylwyth Teg – on the way to their happily ever after.
Storm Bound
Hero: Aidan, a 12th century Welsh blacksmith, is taken by Fae princess on his wedding day. His refusal to dishonor his fiancée and come to her bed enrages her and he is changed into a Grim until he agrees.
Heroine: Brooke, a modern day witch who accidentally saves Aiden from death. Since the princess is not happy to have lost her toy complications result.
Storm Warned
Hero: Liam is a musician whose world crashed when his wife was unfaithful – in living color on YouTube. He is now a reclusive farmer who has given up music in all forms.
Heroine: Caris is an 18th century Welsh farm girl with a gift for music that is truly magical. Taken by a plotting Fae princeling, Caris and her ability to influence others with her music is 'stored' for future use by turning her into a Grim. Complications ensue…
Storm Crossed
Heroes: Trahern, a Fae sorcerer, becomes part of the Wild Hunt in his efforts to save his twin brother, Braith, from the machinations of their mother who has turned him into a Grim.
Heroine: Lissy Santiago-Callahan, the single mother of an autistic child who seems to have access to great magical powers.
Time passes while they ride with the Hunt and Trahern continues to attempt to free Braith, but to no avail. Then suddenly Braith attaches himself to a child, a human child, and refuses to leave. Trahern is fearful but comes to realize that he too wants to protect the child, and the mother. Both Trahern and Lissy feel that mortal and immortal have nothing in common but they find they do. And yes, complications arise both from the Fae world and from the real world difficulties of raising an autistic child.
Each story serves well as a stand-alone but there is a lot character overlap. Can you read them without having read them all or in the right order? Sure, but I think reading them in order enriches the stories but that may just be me. There is also appears to be a series arc going on with Lurien, the Lord of the Wild Hunt, and Gwenhidw, widowed Queen of the Fae.
The Grim series of this writing:
Storm Warrior
Storm Bound
Storm Warned
Storm Crossed
I truly hope the author continues the series…
FYI: this is a short review of the series so there will be a bit about each book in the review.
I loved this series and read all 4 books in a row [Storm Warrior, Storm Bound, Storm Warned, Storm Crossed]. Well actually I listened to all 4 books – I found it easier than trying to figure out the pronunciation of the occasional bit of Welsh. The narrator was outstanding – good use of voice, good pacing, and she got to figure out how to pronounce the Welsh.
The setting is Wales, the Nine Realms of the Tylwyth Teg [the Fae or Fair Folk of Welsh legend – if you're thinking of Tolkein's elves forget it – although impossibly beautiful most of them are NOT pleasant and tend to look upon others as toys or pawns], and modern Washington State. The author mixes the politics of the Nine Realms, the Wild Hunt, Grims [a Grim is a great black dog that serves as a herald of death], and modern Washington with a side order of Ren Faires. She does a good job of giving you what you need to know about Welsh history and mythology within the story flow without burying you in facts.
Storm Warrior
Hero: Rhys, a Welsh warrior who fought against the Romans approximately 2000 years ago. After escaping from the Romans he is captured by the Tylwyth Teg and turned a Grim.
Heroine: Morgan, a Washington veterinarian, visits Wales as part of a tour. She keeps seeing this huge black dog everywhere they go and feels sorry for it and offers it kindness. After returning to Washington she is attacked and would have died, should have died, but the Grim intervenes sacrificing his immortality to save her. He is badly injured but she is determined to save him, taking him home to care for him after the surgery to save his life. She is very surprised to find a naked man in place of her dog the next morning, almost as surprised as he is…
The remainder of the story involves Rhys finding a place in Morgan's world and Morgan's life – with many complications thrown in by the Tylwyth Teg – on the way to their happily ever after.
Storm Bound
Hero: Aidan, a 12th century Welsh blacksmith, is taken by Fae princess on his wedding day. His refusal to dishonor his fiancée and come to her bed enrages her and he is changed into a Grim until he agrees.
Heroine: Brooke, a modern day witch who accidentally saves Aiden from death. Since the princess is not happy to have lost her toy complications result.
Storm Warned
Hero: Liam is a musician whose world crashed when his wife was unfaithful – in living color on YouTube. He is now a reclusive farmer who has given up music in all forms.
Heroine: Caris is an 18th century Welsh farm girl with a gift for music that is truly magical. Taken by a plotting Fae princeling, Caris and her ability to influence others with her music is 'stored' for future use by turning her into a Grim. Complications ensue…
Storm Crossed
Heroes: Trahern, a Fae sorcerer, becomes part of the Wild Hunt in his efforts to save his twin brother, Braith, from the machinations of their mother who has turned him into a Grim.
Heroine: Lissy Santiago-Callahan, the single mother of an autistic child who seems to have access to great magical powers.
Time passes while they ride with the Hunt and Trahern continues to attempt to free Braith, but to no avail. Then suddenly Braith attaches himself to a child, a human child, and refuses to leave. Trahern is fearful but comes to realize that he too wants to protect the child, and the mother. Both Trahern and Lissy feel that mortal and immortal have nothing in common but they find they do. And yes, complications arise both from the Fae world and from the real world difficulties of raising an autistic child.
Each story serves well as a stand-alone but there is a lot character overlap. Can you read them without having read them all or in the right order? Sure, but I think reading them in order enriches the stories but that may just be me. There is also appears to be a series arc going on with Lurien, the Lord of the Wild Hunt, and Gwenhidw, widowed Queen of the Fae.
The Grim series of this writing:
Storm Warrior
Storm Bound
Storm Warned
Storm Crossed
I truly hope the author continues the series…
February 17, 2018
Wow! What can I say? This was my first 5* read in a while. And I am so very glad I took a chance to read this one.
This is a wonderful story that is very well written, has great tie-ins to Welsh legends, and was way out of what I was expecting. When I started this story I was TBH expecting a "typical" romance. A great sexy man somehow time travels (or something similar) and meets a wonderful woman. That would have been a good story. This, however, was so much more.
Morgan is a very "sciency" minded person. She was raised by her old-fashioned grandmother who loved filling Morgan's world with stories and faery tales from her homeland. Tylwyth Tegs and faeries etc were a daily thing in her home. Then while she is in college her grandmother passes away, leaving Morgan with nothing but her studies. And when her grandmother died she took all the magic with her. Morgan had to finally let the faery tales and magic go.
Rhy was a gladiator. "The Bringer of Death" He always won. He had to. Then one day he had his chance to escape. Even if he died, at least he would die free.
This story goes way beyond anything I was expecting. The detail this author puts in makes it obvious she is a very passionate writer. I can not even begin to go into the wonderful details that are in this story. I literally could not put the book down. I was reading while cooking, while folding laundry, I even had to remind myself to NOT read while driving. C
This is a wonderful story that is very well written, has great tie-ins to Welsh legends, and was way out of what I was expecting. When I started this story I was TBH expecting a "typical" romance. A great sexy man somehow time travels (or something similar) and meets a wonderful woman. That would have been a good story. This, however, was so much more.
Morgan is a very "sciency" minded person. She was raised by her old-fashioned grandmother who loved filling Morgan's world with stories and faery tales from her homeland. Tylwyth Tegs and faeries etc were a daily thing in her home. Then while she is in college her grandmother passes away, leaving Morgan with nothing but her studies. And when her grandmother died she took all the magic with her. Morgan had to finally let the faery tales and magic go.
Rhy was a gladiator. "The Bringer of Death" He always won. He had to. Then one day he had his chance to escape. Even if he died, at least he would die free.
This story goes way beyond anything I was expecting. The detail this author puts in makes it obvious she is a very passionate writer. I can not even begin to go into the wonderful details that are in this story. I literally could not put the book down. I was reading while cooking, while folding laundry, I even had to remind myself to NOT read while driving. C
January 23, 2018
Morgan and Rhys had a doggone interesting beginning. . . .
I picked this one up and just kept going further in to the world of the grim, fae, and long-forgotten world of tales of the hunt, leaving food, hospitality and kindness. Morgan was raised with the tales of the world she suddenly found herself becoming immersed in. Then she finds that she does not believe in any of it until it could cost her the man she finds herself falling in love with. Rhys was out of his time, element, and reality, but he was a man determined to protect the one woman that he knew was meant for him.
I enjoyed this read so much that I'm ready to jump right into the next one.
Narration was duel pov and had its highs and lows, but overall was good. I got a good representation of the characters and their supporting cast. Rhys accent was delicious.
I picked this one up and just kept going further in to the world of the grim, fae, and long-forgotten world of tales of the hunt, leaving food, hospitality and kindness. Morgan was raised with the tales of the world she suddenly found herself becoming immersed in. Then she finds that she does not believe in any of it until it could cost her the man she finds herself falling in love with. Rhys was out of his time, element, and reality, but he was a man determined to protect the one woman that he knew was meant for him.
I enjoyed this read so much that I'm ready to jump right into the next one.
Narration was duel pov and had its highs and lows, but overall was good. I got a good representation of the characters and their supporting cast. Rhys accent was delicious.
August 4, 2019
I didn’t mind this book much, other than the h being so stubborn and a mite mean to the H for too long, but the storytelling style was too simplistic for me. Maybe there just wasn’t too much going on plotwise, but it all felt overly easy. I’m willing to give this series/author another try. I guess it depends on the story. :)
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