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Valerie Stonehold #5
Echoes of the Anvil
A dwarf's duty, a city in turmoil. Can Val forge peace?
Valerie Stonehold's life is about to get complicated.
She thought she had enough on her running a bar, forging magical jewelry, and training for the UFC.
Tensions in the city are rising. Pro-death penalty factions clash with those supporting imprisonment for paranormal criminals, threatening to tear the community apart.
Val finds herself struggling to maintain neutrality while protecting those she loves.
A shadowy group plans to unleash chaos by freeing dangerous villains. Val must join forces with the Paranormal Militia Alliance to stop them.
As the stakes rise, she must balance her personal life, her business ambitions, and her duty to protect both humans and paranormals.
Can Val unite a divided city and keep her found family safe? Or will the echoes of conflict shatter everything she's worked so hard to build?
Valerie Stonehold's life is about to get complicated.
She thought she had enough on her running a bar, forging magical jewelry, and training for the UFC.
Tensions in the city are rising. Pro-death penalty factions clash with those supporting imprisonment for paranormal criminals, threatening to tear the community apart.
Val finds herself struggling to maintain neutrality while protecting those she loves.
A shadowy group plans to unleash chaos by freeing dangerous villains. Val must join forces with the Paranormal Militia Alliance to stop them.
As the stakes rise, she must balance her personal life, her business ambitions, and her duty to protect both humans and paranormals.
Can Val unite a divided city and keep her found family safe? Or will the echoes of conflict shatter everything she's worked so hard to build?
- GenresUrban Fantasy
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2024
374 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Renée Jaggér
85 books71 followersA long time ago I was born in Los Angeles. That's where I spent many of my formative years. After I became an adult, I moved around for a bit before ending up in a small town in Oregon, very similar to Bailey's hometown. Greenhearth is fake, if you haven't already Googled that, but it's like many small towns with less than 1,000 people.
My pets...
I love animals, especially my two even if they do create havoc in my daily life. I have a cat, named Snowstorm, Storm for short. Then I have a rescue, Josephine. She's a Labradoodle - I think. It's hard to say but it's the best I can come up with.
What I'm working on...
I'm already working on the next book in the series - was working on it before Bad Attitude came back from editing. And now that it has released, need to stay on track with A Bit Aggressive.
For the latest and greatest about me and what I'm working on, check out my website: reneejagger dot com
My pets...
I love animals, especially my two even if they do create havoc in my daily life. I have a cat, named Snowstorm, Storm for short. Then I have a rescue, Josephine. She's a Labradoodle - I think. It's hard to say but it's the best I can come up with.
What I'm working on...
I'm already working on the next book in the series - was working on it before Bad Attitude came back from editing. And now that it has released, need to stay on track with A Bit Aggressive.
For the latest and greatest about me and what I'm working on, check out my website: reneejagger dot com
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 30, 2025
Once again, Renee Jagger and Michael Anderle's joint story writing grabbed me from the very first words, & kept me locked into their story of the Iron Dwarf, Valerie Stonehold, until the very last sentence!
I enjoyed this so much, that I ended up reading throughout the night, once again, and only stopped when I, literally, fell asleep, mid-sentence, some time around 5 a.m. this morning! Lol
I didn't actually wake up until 2p.m.
I guess I must have needed that sleep, as my sleep patterns are all over the place these days.
But, the moment I woke up, I spoke to my daughter, who is staying with me for a few days, then I went straight back to finishing this excellent book!
I'm SO glad that I brought my daughter up to be as much of a bookworm as I am! Lol
Anyhoo, I finished this great story - with a few tears of happiness, I must confess - and would have immediately reached for the next book in this series, but my daughter insisted that I at least eat, so I can take my, very overdue, Meds!
So, I've done what I needed to do, and am back again! Lol
'Echoes of the Anvil' was a book of two halves, really. We have the Jewellery-making Val, who is forever trying to help those she loves, by making pieces of wonderful Jewellery, imbued with Iron Dwarf protections.
Then we have the Warrior Val, who uses every piece of knowledge she can, in order to keep Darkness at bay, and the Eternity Throne safe from those who wish Queen Julia Pendragon, and her Family, harm.
Both sides of Val's life mix well together in this story, as she, and her Fairy Vassal, Tetra, do all in their power to keep the Eternity Throne in the safe hands of Julia & her Luna Fae family.
So much happened in this book, as it usual for the Jagger/Anderle Team, that it's hard to tell even the highlights but, suffice to say, this was a typical, awesome take, and shows us, the readers, even more of Val's family and friends.
One of the main themes in this book, is the marriage of her Dad, Frode, to his long time girlfriend, Bodil. Val is asked to be Maid of Honour, which causes her as much anxiety as fighting a major War would! Lol
But, most of the book was taken up with Val's service to the Eternity Throne, which gave as many laughs, as it did, terror! Lol
So, now I can go on to the next book in this awesome series, which is Book 6: 'The Iron Bear'!
Once I've finished reading this, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know what I think of it! 👍
I enjoyed this so much, that I ended up reading throughout the night, once again, and only stopped when I, literally, fell asleep, mid-sentence, some time around 5 a.m. this morning! Lol
I didn't actually wake up until 2p.m.
I guess I must have needed that sleep, as my sleep patterns are all over the place these days.
But, the moment I woke up, I spoke to my daughter, who is staying with me for a few days, then I went straight back to finishing this excellent book!
I'm SO glad that I brought my daughter up to be as much of a bookworm as I am! Lol
Anyhoo, I finished this great story - with a few tears of happiness, I must confess - and would have immediately reached for the next book in this series, but my daughter insisted that I at least eat, so I can take my, very overdue, Meds!
So, I've done what I needed to do, and am back again! Lol
'Echoes of the Anvil' was a book of two halves, really. We have the Jewellery-making Val, who is forever trying to help those she loves, by making pieces of wonderful Jewellery, imbued with Iron Dwarf protections.
Then we have the Warrior Val, who uses every piece of knowledge she can, in order to keep Darkness at bay, and the Eternity Throne safe from those who wish Queen Julia Pendragon, and her Family, harm.
Both sides of Val's life mix well together in this story, as she, and her Fairy Vassal, Tetra, do all in their power to keep the Eternity Throne in the safe hands of Julia & her Luna Fae family.
So much happened in this book, as it usual for the Jagger/Anderle Team, that it's hard to tell even the highlights but, suffice to say, this was a typical, awesome take, and shows us, the readers, even more of Val's family and friends.
One of the main themes in this book, is the marriage of her Dad, Frode, to his long time girlfriend, Bodil. Val is asked to be Maid of Honour, which causes her as much anxiety as fighting a major War would! Lol
But, most of the book was taken up with Val's service to the Eternity Throne, which gave as many laughs, as it did, terror! Lol
So, now I can go on to the next book in this awesome series, which is Book 6: 'The Iron Bear'!
Once I've finished reading this, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know what I think of it! 👍
September 13, 2025
Valerie Stonehold didn’t set out to be a heroine, but she is, to many of the downtrodden and struggling, paranormal and humans alike.
Val offers help to all when she can, and second chances, even when not deserved.
Living in NYC, working for the magical Queen Julie and finding her way and slowly making friends, she is living large, fast and furious (of course she also manages to make enemies, but given their level of evil and darkness, she is fighting the good fight there).
Her life is full, Tetra has become her faery roomie and friend, a far cry from where they started and Tetra is now a security force pal and junior associate that helps bartend, protects the bar and the innocent.
Now a real villain is stalking the paranormal in a bid to take down the Queen (talk about the ultimate fighting championship!!!) and Val and friends are on the hunt to take the Darkness down.
Couldn’t resist the quip, since Val is training for the UFC. She realllly does it all! Celeb jewelry maker. (Magical but the normies don’t know of course). Helps to run the bar. Protects her friends in NYC. Bodyguard. Helps the paranormal forces.and now adding the UFC, To her resume, WHEN does she sleep??? And let’s add pet rescue mom of Shadow super dog , whom I LOVE!!! Here is the other burning question - WHAT IS SHADOW???!!!!
Lovvvvve the series and adore Val, she kicks the baddies to the curb as deserved and she is humble, always acknowledging her crew and support, and loves on her dad and his gal. One heck of a writer dream team and a totalllllly worthwhile read
Val offers help to all when she can, and second chances, even when not deserved.
Living in NYC, working for the magical Queen Julie and finding her way and slowly making friends, she is living large, fast and furious (of course she also manages to make enemies, but given their level of evil and darkness, she is fighting the good fight there).
Her life is full, Tetra has become her faery roomie and friend, a far cry from where they started and Tetra is now a security force pal and junior associate that helps bartend, protects the bar and the innocent.
Now a real villain is stalking the paranormal in a bid to take down the Queen (talk about the ultimate fighting championship!!!) and Val and friends are on the hunt to take the Darkness down.
Couldn’t resist the quip, since Val is training for the UFC. She realllly does it all! Celeb jewelry maker. (Magical but the normies don’t know of course). Helps to run the bar. Protects her friends in NYC. Bodyguard. Helps the paranormal forces.and now adding the UFC, To her resume, WHEN does she sleep??? And let’s add pet rescue mom of Shadow super dog , whom I LOVE!!! Here is the other burning question - WHAT IS SHADOW???!!!!
Lovvvvve the series and adore Val, she kicks the baddies to the curb as deserved and she is humble, always acknowledging her crew and support, and loves on her dad and his gal. One heck of a writer dream team and a totalllllly worthwhile read
August 13, 2024
A wedding and a battle
Val's jewelry business is really taking off, so is the bar she co-owns, and to top it off she is wondering if Shadow is more than a dog. Due to her being so busy Tetra and Liam get sent on a couple of solo missions and find out some interesting information for the queen. I totally love this series, and can never put the books down until I finish. I'm very sad that I have to wait a month for the next book, but you can bet it goes to the top of my tbr list once it's out.
Val's jewelry business is really taking off, so is the bar she co-owns, and to top it off she is wondering if Shadow is more than a dog. Due to her being so busy Tetra and Liam get sent on a couple of solo missions and find out some interesting information for the queen. I totally love this series, and can never put the books down until I finish. I'm very sad that I have to wait a month for the next book, but you can bet it goes to the top of my tbr list once it's out.
August 7, 2024
Echoes of the Anvil
This series is great. By now we know the characters and how they interact with each other. They have been developed nicely. I really like Val and I am glad that Liam has finally gotten everything explained to him. The story line is moving forward nicely. Recommended.
This series is great. By now we know the characters and how they interact with each other. They have been developed nicely. I really like Val and I am glad that Liam has finally gotten everything explained to him. The story line is moving forward nicely. Recommended.
August 7, 2024
Maturing
Val's group is maturing and coming into their own. Val's magic is evolving. Shadow is more than he seems, but that revelation is in the future. Tetra and Liam are each respectively coming into their own.
Lots of a action, plot twists, and close calls.
Eagerly awaiting the next book!
Val's group is maturing and coming into their own. Val's magic is evolving. Shadow is more than he seems, but that revelation is in the future. Tetra and Liam are each respectively coming into their own.
Lots of a action, plot twists, and close calls.
Eagerly awaiting the next book!
August 7, 2024
Wow, just wow!
Val and company never disappoint. Action, humor and I'll admit a tear or two! Enough resolution to offset the cliff hanger over Shadow. Saw some old friendships and a new one to join the gang. Can't wait for the next book!!
Val and company never disappoint. Action, humor and I'll admit a tear or two! Enough resolution to offset the cliff hanger over Shadow. Saw some old friendships and a new one to join the gang. Can't wait for the next book!!
August 9, 2024
Building the legend
Steady flow of characters building who they are.
Good action
Like Frodo standing with his daughter as she grows. Who is Shadow her Red Bear companion or something new
Steady flow of characters building who they are.
Good action
Like Frodo standing with his daughter as she grows. Who is Shadow her Red Bear companion or something new
August 9, 2024
Val, Trella, and Liam make a great team
Val is busy with making jewelry, so Trella and Liam take over the security company. Snap takes over the bar, and Val becomes a silent partner.
Val is busy with making jewelry, so Trella and Liam take over the security company. Snap takes over the bar, and Val becomes a silent partner.
August 10, 2024
Could not put it down
Stronghold security kicks ass on Earth and Avalon. Shadow the dog? Takes a major role in the companies protection duties. And the Wild Hunt is still causing problems even from jail. Good sequel looking forward to the next episode.
Stronghold security kicks ass on Earth and Avalon. Shadow the dog? Takes a major role in the companies protection duties. And the Wild Hunt is still causing problems even from jail. Good sequel looking forward to the next episode.
August 13, 2024
Another good read
I really like this series. The stories are great. I really like the characters, don't agree with some of their reactions but that makes them more real. Everyone reacts differently to a situation. Can't wait for the next book.
I really like this series. The stories are great. I really like the characters, don't agree with some of their reactions but that makes them more real. Everyone reacts differently to a situation. Can't wait for the next book.
August 21, 2024
Great read
Questions why shy to take shirt off? If 5ft 9 inches and 140 lbs, I thought bones part iron so wouldn't she weigh more?
Will there be more on the dog? The cave with a door? Starting a para community!
Questions why shy to take shirt off? If 5ft 9 inches and 140 lbs, I thought bones part iron so wouldn't she weigh more?
Will there be more on the dog? The cave with a door? Starting a para community!
September 27, 2024
This is too good a read
Opening this book this morning was a serious mistake - absolutely no work has been done today as I completely lack the self control to put it down - i retract that - it's all the authors fault for writing such an enthralling series/book.
Opening this book this morning was a serious mistake - absolutely no work has been done today as I completely lack the self control to put it down - i retract that - it's all the authors fault for writing such an enthralling series/book.
November 5, 2024
Val conquers all opposition!
Val Stonehold continues to do her side hustles making warded protective jewelry, tending bar, while she & her team take on any group of malicious paras that try to wreak havoc amongst the innocent members of any community.
Val Stonehold continues to do her side hustles making warded protective jewelry, tending bar, while she & her team take on any group of malicious paras that try to wreak havoc amongst the innocent members of any community.
August 18, 2024
great story
I really liked this story. And all the characters in it. With a great ending. I hope when the new book comes out I can get it
I really liked this story. And all the characters in it. With a great ending. I hope when the new book comes out I can get it
September 20, 2024
brilliant work
Thank you. Just as good as the previous ones. Love this series and as always want more. Your hard work and wonderful mind are inspiring. Xx
Thank you. Just as good as the previous ones. Love this series and as always want more. Your hard work and wonderful mind are inspiring. Xx
January 5, 2025
Good series
I really like Vals story...each book entertains me. I feel like I know most of them by now..and am invested..will finish the seies
I really like Vals story...each book entertains me. I feel like I know most of them by now..and am invested..will finish the seies
January 12, 2025
Well written
The stories just click together. Strength, power, love, excitement.
Thanks for writing a great series, both authors!! Keep it going
The stories just click together. Strength, power, love, excitement.
Thanks for writing a great series, both authors!! Keep it going
February 8, 2025
Another one in this enjoyable series, it wanders a bit in the middle but then ends with a bang.
Looking forward to reading the next on.
Looking forward to reading the next on.
May 14, 2025
A wedding for the ages!
I love all of these stories
Lots of action
Lots of politics
Lots of deep friendships and caring
Lots of mystery
Really enjoying them
Thank you
I love all of these stories
Lots of action
Lots of politics
Lots of deep friendships and caring
Lots of mystery
Really enjoying them
Thank you
June 27, 2025
great read
I really enjoyed this story and ending was amazing. This has been a great series so far. The story is about the world not just the heroine.
I really enjoyed this story and ending was amazing. This has been a great series so far. The story is about the world not just the heroine.
July 22, 2025
Great series
January 25, 2025
This is another series that I found quite likable but it really never rose above three stars. These two books however, are four star ones for me.
I really like the kick-ass dwarf as well as her friends. The story is not bad and the books are quite well written with a good mix of magic, action, friendly and not so friendly banter with and the right amount of "glue" around it to make for good reading.
The author did go a bit woke in book six with some unfortunate word choices. She was helping her fellow dwarfs and other supernatural creatures. Calling them "immigrants" was just catering for the woke mob.
Still four stars it is for the two books in the series.
I really like the kick-ass dwarf as well as her friends. The story is not bad and the books are quite well written with a good mix of magic, action, friendly and not so friendly banter with and the right amount of "glue" around it to make for good reading.
The author did go a bit woke in book six with some unfortunate word choices. She was helping her fellow dwarfs and other supernatural creatures. Calling them "immigrants" was just catering for the woke mob.
Still four stars it is for the two books in the series.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews