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The Golden Key Legacy #1
A Furious Muse
Since the day of her birth, Princess Faedrah Austiere has been defined by her place within the kingdom. As the single heir to the half-blood gypsy king and his prophesied white queen, she is fiercely protected, shuttered inside an ivory castle and well-trained in the art of war. Yet neither her obligations as future queen nor the black infestation threatening her kingdom fail to hinder the mysterious pull of the antique armoire hidden in her parents’ bedchamber. And stealing the golden key for a leap through time is the only way to confront the dark lord haunting her dreams.
One face. The image of one defiant, relentless woman has been stuck in Rhys McEleod’s head ever since he was old enough paint her luscious curves on the canvas. But the day she walks into his life off the street—sexier than hell and itching for a fight—he’s not convinced she’s the same women he’s envisioned since childhood. That is, not until he spots the golden key around her neck—an object he’d never fully shown in any of his paintings.
Now if he could just persuade his lovely muse he’s not the enemy. Unless the elusive Faedrah Austiere learns to trust him, he’ll never have her in his bed—the one place he’s convinced she belongs.
One face. The image of one defiant, relentless woman has been stuck in Rhys McEleod’s head ever since he was old enough paint her luscious curves on the canvas. But the day she walks into his life off the street—sexier than hell and itching for a fight—he’s not convinced she’s the same women he’s envisioned since childhood. That is, not until he spots the golden key around her neck—an object he’d never fully shown in any of his paintings.
Now if he could just persuade his lovely muse he’s not the enemy. Unless the elusive Faedrah Austiere learns to trust him, he’ll never have her in his bed—the one place he’s convinced she belongs.
106 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2014
About the author
A.J. Nuest
27 books673 followersMulti-published, award winning author, AJ Nuest resides in a small farming community in NW Indiana. A wife, mother and freelance editor, she shares her home with a variety of spoiled-rotten pets. She and the cat are currently vying for dictatorship.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
November 26, 2014
With the world-building of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and the heart-thumping sexual tension of Jamie and Claire right before that famous wedding night in Outlander, A FURIOUS MUSE pulls you into Rhys and Faedrah’s world and makes you never want to leave. I finished the story in one day. I had to—there was no other option. And when you hit the page with the option to pre-order the next installment, you’ll do it. Immediately.
Old world romance and charm of an ethereal realm lying just beyond the mirror of an armoire, a mysterious adversary bent on revenge, the return of some of the beloved characters of The Golden Key Chronicles, this follow up series bridging the magical realm and the “real” world, The Golden Key Legacy is a must read—especially if you love dark, sexy, drool-worthy heroes that aren’t going anywhere ‘til they get the girl.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review and I intend to reread it until I wear it out. Loved it and highly recommend it!
Old world romance and charm of an ethereal realm lying just beyond the mirror of an armoire, a mysterious adversary bent on revenge, the return of some of the beloved characters of The Golden Key Chronicles, this follow up series bridging the magical realm and the “real” world, The Golden Key Legacy is a must read—especially if you love dark, sexy, drool-worthy heroes that aren’t going anywhere ‘til they get the girl.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review and I intend to reread it until I wear it out. Loved it and highly recommend it!
December 5, 2014
For me, this novella can easily be summed up in two words ‘abso-positive-lutely fan-frickin-tastic’. I couldn’t put it down from the first page. Nuest’s fast paced, exciting writing keeps you hooked. The exciting and captivating storyline let my imagination soar. It’s completely original yet still easily recognizable as a fantasy tale. Her descriptions are ones that bring this world to life before your eyes. Nuest gives you the smallest details of the scene so you can get the full picture of the setting, the characters, of everything.
Nuest fills this novel with approachable yet larger than life characters. Faedra is fantastic. She’s the type of character that you want to jump into the story and help along. Nuest develops her in such a manner that you get to know her as an individual while at the same time there’s so much more about her to learn in the future novellas. Paired with her biker boy counterpart you have a winning team. Emotions run high in these characters as their wants and needs collide in an unimaginable way. I love the sharp contrast between the characters from the past and those from the future. Cultures clash and dialects stand out in a fantastic battle of wills and wants. The dialogue has a brilliant and natural flow to it while having its own tone and timbre to suit the land.
This first novella in Nuest’s new serial is absolutely unforgettable. It is a vividly colourful tale that launches Nuest’s new series up and beyond the others.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Nuest fills this novel with approachable yet larger than life characters. Faedra is fantastic. She’s the type of character that you want to jump into the story and help along. Nuest develops her in such a manner that you get to know her as an individual while at the same time there’s so much more about her to learn in the future novellas. Paired with her biker boy counterpart you have a winning team. Emotions run high in these characters as their wants and needs collide in an unimaginable way. I love the sharp contrast between the characters from the past and those from the future. Cultures clash and dialects stand out in a fantastic battle of wills and wants. The dialogue has a brilliant and natural flow to it while having its own tone and timbre to suit the land.
This first novella in Nuest’s new serial is absolutely unforgettable. It is a vividly colourful tale that launches Nuest’s new series up and beyond the others.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2014
This is my first experience with A. J. Nuest's writing and I have to tell you that I loved it. Yes, Dii my co-blogger was been telling me I needed to check it out for some time and boy was she right.
A Furious Muse was a blending of historical fiction with the twist of science fiction time travel. This story was completely magical. Everything about A Furious Muse pulled me in but the characters are especially superb.
If I had to make a complaint, I wished it was longer. At novella length, it left me wanting more...lucky for me I already grab my copy of The Sacrifice and I'm heading there next.
Now I have to go add all the rest of A. J. Nuest's books to my “want to read” “wish list” shelf.
Written by: A. J. Nuest
Series: The Golden Key Legacy
Sequence in Series: #1
ISBN-13: 9780008123116
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication date: 11/27/2014
Rating: 5 Stars
Sold by: Harper Collins UK
Genre: Romance | Fantasy | Time Travel | Scifi
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
A Furious Muse was a blending of historical fiction with the twist of science fiction time travel. This story was completely magical. Everything about A Furious Muse pulled me in but the characters are especially superb.
If I had to make a complaint, I wished it was longer. At novella length, it left me wanting more...lucky for me I already grab my copy of The Sacrifice and I'm heading there next.
Now I have to go add all the rest of A. J. Nuest's books to my “want to read” “wish list” shelf.
Written by: A. J. Nuest
Series: The Golden Key Legacy
Sequence in Series: #1
ISBN-13: 9780008123116
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication date: 11/27/2014
Rating: 5 Stars
Sold by: Harper Collins UK
Genre: Romance | Fantasy | Time Travel | Scifi
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 12, 2015
If you're expecting a re-telling of Rowena and Caedmon, you will be sorely disappointed. While those beloved characters appear, this is a fresh story starring their daughter and her own time-crossed love affair.
A Furious Muse is a continuation of The Golden Key Chronicles, NOT a rewrite as so many sequels are. But with a twist that is sure to hook you...and keep you hooked.
Ms. Nuest has reversed the roles of her hero and heroine, future and past, while bringing back favorite characters who endeared themselves in the first series in both times. Just as in the first series, the phrasing and speech of each of her characters remains true to their history and the words between the dialogue maintains the spell of whichever time/realm they happen to inhabit at the moment.
Magic may not be as rampant in this tale, but the magic of destined love is still prevalent and the characters caught up in its maelstrom will have you rooting for their success.
If you are a reader who gets caught up in an engrossing tale, you'll find yourself impatient for the next installment.
A Furious Muse is a continuation of The Golden Key Chronicles, NOT a rewrite as so many sequels are. But with a twist that is sure to hook you...and keep you hooked.
Ms. Nuest has reversed the roles of her hero and heroine, future and past, while bringing back favorite characters who endeared themselves in the first series in both times. Just as in the first series, the phrasing and speech of each of her characters remains true to their history and the words between the dialogue maintains the spell of whichever time/realm they happen to inhabit at the moment.
Magic may not be as rampant in this tale, but the magic of destined love is still prevalent and the characters caught up in its maelstrom will have you rooting for their success.
If you are a reader who gets caught up in an engrossing tale, you'll find yourself impatient for the next installment.
November 27, 2014
First things first, I need to say that, while it is possible to read The Furious Muse without having read The Golden Key Chronicles first, you would be doing yourself a disservice to skip ahead in the Golden Key universe. Start from the start to really make the most of this incredible world. The second series is set a full generation after the first, but the world of Faedrah and Rhys is so built on the world of Rowena and Caedmon's story that I think readers would lose a lot of the magic and character intricacies if they were to jump in at this point. With that in mind, if you haven't already, read The Golden Key Chronicles right now (starting with Rowena's Key), and then come back here tomorrow to keep reading.
Since reading The Golden Key Chronicles, I became a pretty serious Nuest fan-girl. Her books are magical crack to me. So you can imagine how excited I was to be sent an early version of A Furious Muse, the first in her follow-up series The Golden Key Legacy. There was much squealing. Then when I sat down to read A Furious Muse, I was freaking blown away. And there was even more squealing.
This series is better than the first.
I REPEAT.
IT IS BETTER THAN THE FIRST.
I know, I didn't think that was possible either, but there you have it.
I have to admit I was a little trepidatious about the concept of a second generation series from The Golden Key Chronicles. Rowena and Caedmon's story is so wonderful and holds a special place on the bookshelf of my heart, so I wasn't sure I wanted to see what had happened to them 20 years on. More importantly, I wasn't sure how a new generation hero and heroine could ever really compare. I needn't have worried though.
Before we jump into meet our new hero and heroine, I want to talk a little about our old loves. Rowena and Caedmon are 20 odd years older, have well and truly settled into running their kingdom, and, most importantly, are now parents. Nuest's insight into their new lives is spot on. I was worried they would fade away in this series, or develop radically unconvincing new personalities, but instead it was just so nice to see my old friends again. They still have the same attitudes I loved before, but, of course, things do change and there's no avoiding the change of becoming a parent. Yet, how they are as parents is exactly as I would have imagined - Rowena is the loving, slightly rebellious mother, and Caedmon is the ridiculously over protective father. And they still love each other more than anything.
Of course, a wild mother and protective father might be what I would expect from Rowena and Caedmon, but they don't necessarily make for the easiest of parents for young Faedrah. And so we meet our new heroine. She's a lot more innocent than the heroines I'm usually drawn to. Particularly having been so over protected by her father, in many ways, she's quite the fair maiden. But she's also Rowena's daughter, which means that, despite her apparent innocence, she's strong, a fighter, and desperately determined to save the day and the people she loves. Which is why she's not afraid to step through the armoire to Rowena's homeland (the modern, non-magical day) in the hopes of finding a way to stop the evil wizard haunting her dreams.
This is where our tale reverses. Unlike in The Golden Key Chronicles, in A Furious Muse we begin in the fairy tale land of Austiere and traverse through to the modern world. The fairy tale qualities remain, but we gain a new magical journey - the adventurous princess leaving her faraway kingdom to find her prince and take on an evil wizard.
The majority of the world building happens at the beginning of the story in Austiere, and the fantasy detail is lovely. I missed the Austiere realm! Once we're through the armoire, we get Faedrah's confusion about the modern world, which I just loved. It's really believable and fun to read. Plus we get to see Oliver and Jon again, and they get even more of a role this time round. Oh, I love them.
And then there's Rhys, Faedrah's prince who we find in the most unlikely of places: an art gallery.
For this time, our hero is a painter. His muse? A princess who he thought was a figment of his imagination until Faedrah walks through the door.
Gosh, where do I begin with Rhys? His characterization IS SO FREAKING GOOD. Rhys' character is one of the main reasons I think this series blows its predecessor out of the water. He's a very complex character, a most unexpected prince and nothing like Caedmon. In many ways, he has quite a dark story, and a lot of issues. He is fanatical about his paintings and relies heavily on his friend Nate to keep him functional. He's a completely unlikely hero, and yet he's totally perfect. Despite the magic that infuses this story, Rhys is quite a real character, making his, quite literally, earth shaking love for Faedrah seem all the more intense.
Their relationship is...well... phwoar. Rhys is all alpha sex god, and even though Faedrah seems fragile and innocent at times, Rhys has certainly met his match in his muse. We still get the lighter elements I expect from Nuest, with laugh out loud moments in this delicious romance, but with Faedrah and Rhys we also have a more primal grungy romance that's just scrumptious.
Somewhat predictably, this book ends in the WORST cliffhanger. At least this time I was fully prepared to have my heart torn out at the hands of a book, only to be left hanging. Less than a month til Book 2 comes out though! Thank god. (But obviously, I know, that will end in a cliffhanger too, because AJ Nuest is a wicked, cruel genius of a woman).
So our Golden Key fairy tale is reversed, and our new characters are quite different from the old, but the magic remains and the journey only becomes more incredible with this new series. There are emotional layers to this story, to these new characters, that are surprising and beautiful. AJ Nuest rocks the strong heroines, but this time she's added to that a more fragile element. She's also given us a hero as real as he is swoon worthy, and yet another romance-adventure with new layers to have fans of the Golden Key Chronicles falling in love all over again. A Furious Muse is a sexy, grungy, awesome start to a beautifully evocative new series.
As you can tell, I'm pretty excited about this one. ...I'll try to be more concise in my review of Book 2.
---
More reviews at: http://www.readingromance.com
Since reading The Golden Key Chronicles, I became a pretty serious Nuest fan-girl. Her books are magical crack to me. So you can imagine how excited I was to be sent an early version of A Furious Muse, the first in her follow-up series The Golden Key Legacy. There was much squealing. Then when I sat down to read A Furious Muse, I was freaking blown away. And there was even more squealing.
This series is better than the first.
I REPEAT.
IT IS BETTER THAN THE FIRST.
I know, I didn't think that was possible either, but there you have it.
I have to admit I was a little trepidatious about the concept of a second generation series from The Golden Key Chronicles. Rowena and Caedmon's story is so wonderful and holds a special place on the bookshelf of my heart, so I wasn't sure I wanted to see what had happened to them 20 years on. More importantly, I wasn't sure how a new generation hero and heroine could ever really compare. I needn't have worried though.
Before we jump into meet our new hero and heroine, I want to talk a little about our old loves. Rowena and Caedmon are 20 odd years older, have well and truly settled into running their kingdom, and, most importantly, are now parents. Nuest's insight into their new lives is spot on. I was worried they would fade away in this series, or develop radically unconvincing new personalities, but instead it was just so nice to see my old friends again. They still have the same attitudes I loved before, but, of course, things do change and there's no avoiding the change of becoming a parent. Yet, how they are as parents is exactly as I would have imagined - Rowena is the loving, slightly rebellious mother, and Caedmon is the ridiculously over protective father. And they still love each other more than anything.
Of course, a wild mother and protective father might be what I would expect from Rowena and Caedmon, but they don't necessarily make for the easiest of parents for young Faedrah. And so we meet our new heroine. She's a lot more innocent than the heroines I'm usually drawn to. Particularly having been so over protected by her father, in many ways, she's quite the fair maiden. But she's also Rowena's daughter, which means that, despite her apparent innocence, she's strong, a fighter, and desperately determined to save the day and the people she loves. Which is why she's not afraid to step through the armoire to Rowena's homeland (the modern, non-magical day) in the hopes of finding a way to stop the evil wizard haunting her dreams.
This is where our tale reverses. Unlike in The Golden Key Chronicles, in A Furious Muse we begin in the fairy tale land of Austiere and traverse through to the modern world. The fairy tale qualities remain, but we gain a new magical journey - the adventurous princess leaving her faraway kingdom to find her prince and take on an evil wizard.
The majority of the world building happens at the beginning of the story in Austiere, and the fantasy detail is lovely. I missed the Austiere realm! Once we're through the armoire, we get Faedrah's confusion about the modern world, which I just loved. It's really believable and fun to read. Plus we get to see Oliver and Jon again, and they get even more of a role this time round. Oh, I love them.
And then there's Rhys, Faedrah's prince who we find in the most unlikely of places: an art gallery.
For this time, our hero is a painter. His muse? A princess who he thought was a figment of his imagination until Faedrah walks through the door.
Gosh, where do I begin with Rhys? His characterization IS SO FREAKING GOOD. Rhys' character is one of the main reasons I think this series blows its predecessor out of the water. He's a very complex character, a most unexpected prince and nothing like Caedmon. In many ways, he has quite a dark story, and a lot of issues. He is fanatical about his paintings and relies heavily on his friend Nate to keep him functional. He's a completely unlikely hero, and yet he's totally perfect. Despite the magic that infuses this story, Rhys is quite a real character, making his, quite literally, earth shaking love for Faedrah seem all the more intense.
Their relationship is...well... phwoar. Rhys is all alpha sex god, and even though Faedrah seems fragile and innocent at times, Rhys has certainly met his match in his muse. We still get the lighter elements I expect from Nuest, with laugh out loud moments in this delicious romance, but with Faedrah and Rhys we also have a more primal grungy romance that's just scrumptious.
Somewhat predictably, this book ends in the WORST cliffhanger. At least this time I was fully prepared to have my heart torn out at the hands of a book, only to be left hanging. Less than a month til Book 2 comes out though! Thank god. (But obviously, I know, that will end in a cliffhanger too, because AJ Nuest is a wicked, cruel genius of a woman).
So our Golden Key fairy tale is reversed, and our new characters are quite different from the old, but the magic remains and the journey only becomes more incredible with this new series. There are emotional layers to this story, to these new characters, that are surprising and beautiful. AJ Nuest rocks the strong heroines, but this time she's added to that a more fragile element. She's also given us a hero as real as he is swoon worthy, and yet another romance-adventure with new layers to have fans of the Golden Key Chronicles falling in love all over again. A Furious Muse is a sexy, grungy, awesome start to a beautifully evocative new series.
As you can tell, I'm pretty excited about this one. ...I'll try to be more concise in my review of Book 2.
---
More reviews at: http://www.readingromance.com
December 4, 2014
So, I see a spin-off series from AJ Nuest and I say, this is the author that could write a grocery list and it would leave me in a puddle of goo, and yet…was I ready for the next generation of Golden Key heroes and heroines? I take the plunge and once again, Ms. Nuest has me wanting more, NOW.A Furious Muse is another magical treat from the pen of AJ Nuest, who’s only problem as an author is that she cannot write fast enough for my taste!
Princess Faedrah is the heir to the throne, the protected pearl of the kingdom, the shining apple in her parents’ eyes and one well-trained warrior in her own right. So why do her dreams of a mysterious man haunt her? Is it part of the evil threatening her kingdom? Is she pulled to the magical armoire in her parents’ bedchamber because it is off limits or is there something else sucking her in? What made her grab the golden key and open those doors to “the mirror” and take a leap through time?
Ladies’ man, Rhys McLeod is a talented, twenty-first century Earth, artist and his creations of a fierce and beautiful warrior woman become his life focus, his muse, as he brings her to life on canvas. She mesmerizes him, she makes him rich, and then, she storms through his shop door, in the flesh, angry as a pit bull, demanding he tell her how he painted her likeness. Like moths to the flame their futures become bound and they don’t even know it yet.
Get ready for AJ Nuest’s signature clash of the romantic titans as these two scorch each tension-filled scene with their passions. From one time to the next, Ms. Nuest manages to make the switch seamlessly, from the world she has created for each era with dialogue that feels real and she does it in so few pages! I have to say, it felt like old home week when Ollie appeared, as “Ollie” as ever! Loved every single page, even the ones almost too hot to handle!
I received this copy from A.J. Nuest in exchange for my honest review!
Series: The Golden Key Legacy - Book 1
Publication Date: November 27, 2014
Publisher: HarperImpulse
Genre: Adult Fantasy Romance
Print Length: 106 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Princess Faedrah is the heir to the throne, the protected pearl of the kingdom, the shining apple in her parents’ eyes and one well-trained warrior in her own right. So why do her dreams of a mysterious man haunt her? Is it part of the evil threatening her kingdom? Is she pulled to the magical armoire in her parents’ bedchamber because it is off limits or is there something else sucking her in? What made her grab the golden key and open those doors to “the mirror” and take a leap through time?
Ladies’ man, Rhys McLeod is a talented, twenty-first century Earth, artist and his creations of a fierce and beautiful warrior woman become his life focus, his muse, as he brings her to life on canvas. She mesmerizes him, she makes him rich, and then, she storms through his shop door, in the flesh, angry as a pit bull, demanding he tell her how he painted her likeness. Like moths to the flame their futures become bound and they don’t even know it yet.
Get ready for AJ Nuest’s signature clash of the romantic titans as these two scorch each tension-filled scene with their passions. From one time to the next, Ms. Nuest manages to make the switch seamlessly, from the world she has created for each era with dialogue that feels real and she does it in so few pages! I have to say, it felt like old home week when Ollie appeared, as “Ollie” as ever! Loved every single page, even the ones almost too hot to handle!
I received this copy from A.J. Nuest in exchange for my honest review!
Series: The Golden Key Legacy - Book 1
Publication Date: November 27, 2014
Publisher: HarperImpulse
Genre: Adult Fantasy Romance
Print Length: 106 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 18, 2015
This kind of read was a new experience for me. I was anxious to see where AJ would lead me.
This story is the discovery of Old world and their way to rule with magic involved in it. It is the life of Princess Feadrah who decide to move away from her life to discover what lay behind the miror that has been fascinating her for many years but couldn’t get close enough to it, because her parents were guarding it. They know that they have to prepare her for what lays behind, but she doesn’t wait and cross over.
She has a key that will guide her through her journey of new discovery and a life that she never expected.
AJ Nues’s know how to guide you in this story and want you to find out more. I’m looking forward to read what comes next.
This story is the discovery of Old world and their way to rule with magic involved in it. It is the life of Princess Feadrah who decide to move away from her life to discover what lay behind the miror that has been fascinating her for many years but couldn’t get close enough to it, because her parents were guarding it. They know that they have to prepare her for what lays behind, but she doesn’t wait and cross over.
She has a key that will guide her through her journey of new discovery and a life that she never expected.
AJ Nues’s know how to guide you in this story and want you to find out more. I’m looking forward to read what comes next.
December 13, 2014
Faedrah has been having nightmares. The same one night after night. the wizard asking for the key. Defying her parents Faedrah defies her parents and goes through the portal into the mirror to the future. After arriving in the future in the home of Oliver and Jon where she sees a portrait of herself she needs to know who painted her. Rhys has been painting Faedrah since he was 10 years old. She haunts him but he never thought he would get to meet the actual women of his dreams. Much less that she can kick his butt.
I love the character of Faedrah, she is a strong women and has no problem kicking butt then asking questions. She is unsure of her attraction to Rhys but soon realizes he isn't the evil one and she finds it hard to fight the attraction between them. Rhys is definitely an alpha male. He wants Faedrah more then he has wanted anything. But after finding out she is innocent she keeps himself from jumping in bed with her. As the secrets come to light, Rhys and Faedrah soon realize they are meant to be together.
I love the character of Faedrah, she is a strong women and has no problem kicking butt then asking questions. She is unsure of her attraction to Rhys but soon realizes he isn't the evil one and she finds it hard to fight the attraction between them. Rhys is definitely an alpha male. He wants Faedrah more then he has wanted anything. But after finding out she is innocent she keeps himself from jumping in bed with her. As the secrets come to light, Rhys and Faedrah soon realize they are meant to be together.
November 27, 2014
I can't even begin to tell you how much I loved this book! I totally fell in love with the Golden Key Chronicles and to read about my dear Caedmon and Rowena's adult daughter in these series is beyond amazing! I love everything that AJ Nuest writes and this is no exception! From the moment I "opened" this book, I couldn't put it down, literally I think I finished this book in 6 hours.
When Faedrah crosses over to the "present" world, she is hoping to find the evil that is plaguing her kingdom. She doesn't plan on finding her soul mate from another realm. But when she meets Rhys, ( oh my Rhys!) she is in for a battle-an inner battle-of trust, love.
When Faedrah crosses over to the "present" world, she is hoping to find the evil that is plaguing her kingdom. She doesn't plan on finding her soul mate from another realm. But when she meets Rhys, ( oh my Rhys!) she is in for a battle-an inner battle-of trust, love.
December 13, 2014
A Furious Muse by AJ Nuest
First off I want to say The style of writing by Ms, Nuest never fails to please and amaze me. I’ve read her work before so it doesn’t surprise me that I’ll get a solid, well plotted and entertaining read when I crack her books open (or turn on my Kindle). I’m always left wanting more.
That said, and having read most of The Golden Key Chronicles serial before this , the depth of her characters, the obvious research that goes into her writing is what brings me back book after book. She’s an auto-buy author for me. I love the light humor. I love the voice. I love the style with which Ms. Nuest writes each and every book. The thought put into her characters can only be described as near perfection!
A Furious Muse, book one in The Golden Key Legacy introduces us to Faedrah and Rhys. She’s a kick-a$$-now—ask-questions¬-later kind of gal, and a princess from the past to boot. Rhys is a modern day artist, a tortured hero with a bad, worse than bad, relationship with his real estate mogul father and a dream girl obsession. She determines it her duty to reunite father and son while searching out the bad guy in order to save her father’s kingdom. Though I admit I had my suspicions about the villain before the end, this book will leave you stunned and anxious for book two. The Sacrifice is due out later this month. I can’t wait!
I was provided an ARC of this book to give an honest review.
First off I want to say The style of writing by Ms, Nuest never fails to please and amaze me. I’ve read her work before so it doesn’t surprise me that I’ll get a solid, well plotted and entertaining read when I crack her books open (or turn on my Kindle). I’m always left wanting more.
That said, and having read most of The Golden Key Chronicles serial before this , the depth of her characters, the obvious research that goes into her writing is what brings me back book after book. She’s an auto-buy author for me. I love the light humor. I love the voice. I love the style with which Ms. Nuest writes each and every book. The thought put into her characters can only be described as near perfection!
A Furious Muse, book one in The Golden Key Legacy introduces us to Faedrah and Rhys. She’s a kick-a$$-now—ask-questions¬-later kind of gal, and a princess from the past to boot. Rhys is a modern day artist, a tortured hero with a bad, worse than bad, relationship with his real estate mogul father and a dream girl obsession. She determines it her duty to reunite father and son while searching out the bad guy in order to save her father’s kingdom. Though I admit I had my suspicions about the villain before the end, this book will leave you stunned and anxious for book two. The Sacrifice is due out later this month. I can’t wait!
I was provided an ARC of this book to give an honest review.
December 1, 2014
And I thought the Golden Key Chronicles series was just...WOW!
Sheesh. This first installment of The Golden Key Legacy blew my mind. Didn't think Ms. Nuest could top Rowena and Price Caedmon's story, but I was OHHHHHH so wrong. My thoughts are scattered, but here's the jist...
Ms. Nuest's ability to delve into a character's mind and bring them to life in a believable, unique fashion is phenomenal. The most impressive aspect of her story-telling is the switching of the old world language and mannerisms of our fantasy MC, Princess Faedrah, and her contemporary, bad-ass 21st century counterpart, Rhys. Each voice is clear, expressive, and memorable in a refreshing way.
This isn't your run of the mill time travel romance. I've seen it compared to Outlander, and while Ms. Gabaldon's series is enjoyable - an easy 4-4.5 star series IMO - Ms. Nuest has managed to bring something more. Something tangible to her novellas because of these characters. There's palatable tension. Descriptive settings without the fluff. I could go ON and ON.
As for the cliff hanger ending...you're going to growl. Scream. Holler & cuss when you click your E-reader to find the acknowledgements.
Addictive. Sizzling.
Definitely a must read. You can thank me later.
Sheesh. This first installment of The Golden Key Legacy blew my mind. Didn't think Ms. Nuest could top Rowena and Price Caedmon's story, but I was OHHHHHH so wrong. My thoughts are scattered, but here's the jist...
Ms. Nuest's ability to delve into a character's mind and bring them to life in a believable, unique fashion is phenomenal. The most impressive aspect of her story-telling is the switching of the old world language and mannerisms of our fantasy MC, Princess Faedrah, and her contemporary, bad-ass 21st century counterpart, Rhys. Each voice is clear, expressive, and memorable in a refreshing way.
This isn't your run of the mill time travel romance. I've seen it compared to Outlander, and while Ms. Gabaldon's series is enjoyable - an easy 4-4.5 star series IMO - Ms. Nuest has managed to bring something more. Something tangible to her novellas because of these characters. There's palatable tension. Descriptive settings without the fluff. I could go ON and ON.
As for the cliff hanger ending...you're going to growl. Scream. Holler & cuss when you click your E-reader to find the acknowledgements.
Addictive. Sizzling.
Definitely a must read. You can thank me later.
January 23, 2015
As a huge AJ Nuest fan, I was thrilled to learn that this second Golden Key series was on its way. Plus, I received a review copy from the author, so much thanks for that.
‘A Furious Muse’ introduces Faedrah, daughter of Caedmon and Rowena (from the first series). Faedrah is a fierce warrior plagued with a mysterious, recurring nightmare. This terror leads her on a journey to Earth, where teamed with Oliver and John (from the previous series) she faces her own legacy.
I really like Faedrah, she is the perfect imagined child of Caedmon and Rowena, with a warrior’s heart, her mother’s determination, and a sweet innocence from being raised a princess. With another three installments in the series, there is certainly room to see her face many challenges and grow both as a warrior and a woman.
Being a romance series, there is of course a hunky new hero. An artist too! *swoon*. Rhys is very interesting because he has been dreaming of, and painting Faedrah’s image for many years, and seeing him meet in her real life is a lot of fun. I’m curious about his dreams of Faedrah too. What does it all mean?
Rhys and Faedrah have instant chemistry, and their relationship heats up quickly, but I’m glad it isn’t too rushed. Being novella-length, this book has a lot packed in, and there is still plenty of time in the series to see a real romance develop here.
I’m soooo happy to see Oliver and John in this book too! They’re always witty and fun, and bring a lot of heart to the tale as well. Oh, and yes they have the fashion (for Faedrah). :D
I haven’t had time to read Book 2 just yet, but it is next on my reading list. I can’t wait to see what happens with the whole new storyline, and to see all the characters reunite again.
~*~
‘A Furious Muse’ introduces Faedrah, daughter of Caedmon and Rowena (from the first series). Faedrah is a fierce warrior plagued with a mysterious, recurring nightmare. This terror leads her on a journey to Earth, where teamed with Oliver and John (from the previous series) she faces her own legacy.
I really like Faedrah, she is the perfect imagined child of Caedmon and Rowena, with a warrior’s heart, her mother’s determination, and a sweet innocence from being raised a princess. With another three installments in the series, there is certainly room to see her face many challenges and grow both as a warrior and a woman.
Being a romance series, there is of course a hunky new hero. An artist too! *swoon*. Rhys is very interesting because he has been dreaming of, and painting Faedrah’s image for many years, and seeing him meet in her real life is a lot of fun. I’m curious about his dreams of Faedrah too. What does it all mean?
Rhys and Faedrah have instant chemistry, and their relationship heats up quickly, but I’m glad it isn’t too rushed. Being novella-length, this book has a lot packed in, and there is still plenty of time in the series to see a real romance develop here.
I’m soooo happy to see Oliver and John in this book too! They’re always witty and fun, and bring a lot of heart to the tale as well. Oh, and yes they have the fashion (for Faedrah). :D
I haven’t had time to read Book 2 just yet, but it is next on my reading list. I can’t wait to see what happens with the whole new storyline, and to see all the characters reunite again.
~*~
December 16, 2014
I love Faedrah's character...so much like her mother but still her own person. Great book and I can't wait for the next one!!
March 5, 2015
AT LAST - the magical mirror that opens a portal between 2 different worlds and times is back,
for me this is good news- the golden key chronicles world has returned --- and if you have never read the books you can read the furious muse and be able to follow the tale- that said -- 20 years have passed and rowena's and caedmon daughter princess faedrah who lives in the realm known as austiere is having trouble sleeping through the night without having vastly disturbing dreams about a evil man trying to hurt her and steal her key--- this is interfering with her training as a warrior- -- in our world rhys is a painter who has spent most of his life drawing pictures of this beautiful fierce sword welding bewitching lady who he thought was a figment of his imagination --- the worlds collide when faedrah finds out about the magical mirror that brought her parents from different worlds together in the first place--- she goes through it and mets uncle jon and ollie- and learns they were friends of her mom when she lived on earth- she also finds out that this world is in the future- and tries to adjust to the 21 century - ---
when she sees a portrait of herself in ollies home and discovers there are more she goes off to the gallery where she meets rhys- and it is a meeting neither will soon forget- she is angry at the way he seems to know so much about her and he seems to think she has been put up to this by the gallery owner-- however from the start both sense they somehow belong together --
so let me say - i love AJ has the ability to weave 2 worlds and 2 different times together- in a way that makes sense- but also has humor - irony and suspense- i like it that our hero who is used to having females fall into his bed- knows in his very being that faedrah is special - i like it that faedrah although raised with a sheltered upbringing is more then ready to open her heart once she realizes that she loves him- this is a fun - rollicking - steamy - romantic adventure that i am happy to say met my expectations- i was a little nervous that legacy books would not be as well written as the key - buy happily that was not the case--- one piece of bad news- this book has a cliffhanger- that will probably having you scream NO- good news the next installment will be out in a couple of months--- so all in all if you love time travel steamy romance with a kick ass heroine and a hero that will go to his limits and beyond--- buy this book- -- warning you will be hooked on this tale and be purchasing the story of faedrah parents love as well
for me this is good news- the golden key chronicles world has returned --- and if you have never read the books you can read the furious muse and be able to follow the tale- that said -- 20 years have passed and rowena's and caedmon daughter princess faedrah who lives in the realm known as austiere is having trouble sleeping through the night without having vastly disturbing dreams about a evil man trying to hurt her and steal her key--- this is interfering with her training as a warrior- -- in our world rhys is a painter who has spent most of his life drawing pictures of this beautiful fierce sword welding bewitching lady who he thought was a figment of his imagination --- the worlds collide when faedrah finds out about the magical mirror that brought her parents from different worlds together in the first place--- she goes through it and mets uncle jon and ollie- and learns they were friends of her mom when she lived on earth- she also finds out that this world is in the future- and tries to adjust to the 21 century - ---
when she sees a portrait of herself in ollies home and discovers there are more she goes off to the gallery where she meets rhys- and it is a meeting neither will soon forget- she is angry at the way he seems to know so much about her and he seems to think she has been put up to this by the gallery owner-- however from the start both sense they somehow belong together --
so let me say - i love AJ has the ability to weave 2 worlds and 2 different times together- in a way that makes sense- but also has humor - irony and suspense- i like it that our hero who is used to having females fall into his bed- knows in his very being that faedrah is special - i like it that faedrah although raised with a sheltered upbringing is more then ready to open her heart once she realizes that she loves him- this is a fun - rollicking - steamy - romantic adventure that i am happy to say met my expectations- i was a little nervous that legacy books would not be as well written as the key - buy happily that was not the case--- one piece of bad news- this book has a cliffhanger- that will probably having you scream NO- good news the next installment will be out in a couple of months--- so all in all if you love time travel steamy romance with a kick ass heroine and a hero that will go to his limits and beyond--- buy this book- -- warning you will be hooked on this tale and be purchasing the story of faedrah parents love as well
December 17, 2014
Have you ever read books so well written you actually thought you learned something? Take Ms. Nuest's book, her descriptions of the heroin, Faedrah's, fighting skills, made me think I could take on the world. Okay - maybe just a gauntlet.
This book is awesome, a great escape that plunges you back into the Austiere kingdom after the Golden Key Chronicles. I can't get enough of Ms. Nuest's heros. Rhys is no exception. A little damaged, okay maybe a lot more then a little, he is the man you want to love and be loved by. He longing for Faedrah makes your heart swell and break at each turn.
Faedrah is a strong heroine balking at the traditions of her era and not quite embracing those of the future. I love that she isn't helpless, but that Rhys can hold his own. I had a hunch of where the story might end up, but I did not see the cliff hanger ending. UGH! I can't wait for the new book. The writing is so well done and the characters are written so believable that you will be longing for the next part of the story.
A must read for romance and fantasy fanatics.
This book is awesome, a great escape that plunges you back into the Austiere kingdom after the Golden Key Chronicles. I can't get enough of Ms. Nuest's heros. Rhys is no exception. A little damaged, okay maybe a lot more then a little, he is the man you want to love and be loved by. He longing for Faedrah makes your heart swell and break at each turn.
Faedrah is a strong heroine balking at the traditions of her era and not quite embracing those of the future. I love that she isn't helpless, but that Rhys can hold his own. I had a hunch of where the story might end up, but I did not see the cliff hanger ending. UGH! I can't wait for the new book. The writing is so well done and the characters are written so believable that you will be longing for the next part of the story.
A must read for romance and fantasy fanatics.
December 10, 2014
AJ did it again! The story pulled me in fron the start. Faedrath trying to be the best Warrior is haunted in her dreams. Her parents are concerned.
Rhys, living in 2014, a ainted dreams of the beautiful Warrior girl and paints her portrait all the time.
When Faedrath uses the key and the magic mirror, she finds herself in Ollie's house where she sees herself in a portrait. She goes to the gallery to meet the man who painted her. Rhys is spellbound when the woman of his dreams walks in. Faedrath isn't happy that Rhys seems to knwo so much about her. When Faedrath needs help, she goes to Rhys. The sparks fly between them.
This book has everything I love. Mystery, smokin hot romance and suspense. Although there is a cliffhanger "which I don't care for", I am hooked and can't wait to find out what happens next. Congratulations AJ Nuest. Just hurry and get the next book done.
Rhys, living in 2014, a ainted dreams of the beautiful Warrior girl and paints her portrait all the time.
When Faedrath uses the key and the magic mirror, she finds herself in Ollie's house where she sees herself in a portrait. She goes to the gallery to meet the man who painted her. Rhys is spellbound when the woman of his dreams walks in. Faedrath isn't happy that Rhys seems to knwo so much about her. When Faedrath needs help, she goes to Rhys. The sparks fly between them.
This book has everything I love. Mystery, smokin hot romance and suspense. Although there is a cliffhanger "which I don't care for", I am hooked and can't wait to find out what happens next. Congratulations AJ Nuest. Just hurry and get the next book done.
January 9, 2015
This story is amazing! Rhys and Faedrah may as well be from two different worlds, yet the author melds them together with all of their differences intact. I loved the subtle humor, the thread of mystery and suspense, and the magnetic pull of sexual tension between these two characters who I couldn't help but fall in love with. AJ Nuest has nailed this one!! I can't wait to read the next installment of this series!
November 30, 2014
I have to start by saying that this is normally not my type of book, but I loved it and can't wait until the next one. The characters are wonderful, well developed, and relatable. Wizards, time travel, motorcycles, and gorgeous characters make this a must read. You won't be able to put it down.
December 8, 2014
Omg this was the first book I have read by AJ Nuest and let me tell you it is amazing!! I got distracted at first but once I got into it it was a I can't put this down until I have read it all book!
Feadrah doesn't think that she is going to find love in a different realm Until she crosses paths with Rhys. As she searches for answers she falls more and more for him. Rhys can't help but to wonder why she is so secretive about her self and doesn't quite understand it and it is eating at him but at the same time he knows he was meant to be with her.
I can NOT wait to read the next book in this series and go back and read the first of the chronicles and read the other characters stories! This is a must get book and well written!! If you haven't read this book go get it now!! :) or if you are currently reading something else put it on you tbr list! You won't regret it!!
Feadrah doesn't think that she is going to find love in a different realm Until she crosses paths with Rhys. As she searches for answers she falls more and more for him. Rhys can't help but to wonder why she is so secretive about her self and doesn't quite understand it and it is eating at him but at the same time he knows he was meant to be with her.
I can NOT wait to read the next book in this series and go back and read the first of the chronicles and read the other characters stories! This is a must get book and well written!! If you haven't read this book go get it now!! :) or if you are currently reading something else put it on you tbr list! You won't regret it!!
December 3, 2014
This is another incredible book by AJ Nuest. I loved The Golden Key Chronicles but this one is even better. The story pulls you in from the very beginning and doesn't let go. I've already ordered book two and can't wait to read it. I highly recommend this book to anyone who it looking to start a great adventure.
December 11, 2014
WOW an amazing first book to AJ's new Future series which is set further ahead after her The Golden Key Chronicles, we get to see the fiercely loyal and driven Princess Faedrah take afte into her own hands and try and defeat the evil that is haunting her dreams and causing her stressed out Parents the King and Queen such Worry.
Trained by some of the best warriors and her father King Caedmon she takes a leap which leaves her in an unknown world and unknown time as she hunts those that haunts her dreams. Aided by the wise one's know to her as Uncle's she seeks out the one who is drawing her from memory yet they have yet to meet, as they meet and their lives intwine there is a sense of security which is instantly slashed leaving us on a cliff !!!!
Yep an awesome read with such twist and turns you get drawn into the world of the unknown, familiar old characters are once again aiding in their quests to protect their loved one's and with evil lurking everyone must be prepared.
Princess Faedrah and her interaction with the sexy and complicated Rhys only intensify's and draws the connection for the two characters together and as they discover their fates are entwined forever what will become of the growing romance.
Fantastic read loved the Uncles and the story as a whole loved the way Rhys is second guessing his actions and showing he wants to be a gentleman to Faedrah as i'm sure King Caedmon will appreciate when the two finally meet !! Well maybe !!! we shall see. ohhh i can't wait for part 2
Trained by some of the best warriors and her father King Caedmon she takes a leap which leaves her in an unknown world and unknown time as she hunts those that haunts her dreams. Aided by the wise one's know to her as Uncle's she seeks out the one who is drawing her from memory yet they have yet to meet, as they meet and their lives intwine there is a sense of security which is instantly slashed leaving us on a cliff !!!!
Yep an awesome read with such twist and turns you get drawn into the world of the unknown, familiar old characters are once again aiding in their quests to protect their loved one's and with evil lurking everyone must be prepared.
Princess Faedrah and her interaction with the sexy and complicated Rhys only intensify's and draws the connection for the two characters together and as they discover their fates are entwined forever what will become of the growing romance.
Fantastic read loved the Uncles and the story as a whole loved the way Rhys is second guessing his actions and showing he wants to be a gentleman to Faedrah as i'm sure King Caedmon will appreciate when the two finally meet !! Well maybe !!! we shall see. ohhh i can't wait for part 2
December 23, 2014
You might remember that the four installments that make up The Golden Key Chronicles gave me upteen sleepless nights earlier this year. Well I'm pleased to say that the first book of its sequel series is shaping up to be much the same.
After wooing us with Prince Caedmon in the first series, now we have a reversal and a modern-day hunk as the love interest. Happy to report that Rhys is equally as swoonsome, especially if you're in to the more 'alpha' males! Faedrah is charming, her confusion with the 'modern world' done well and with a light-touch, her innocence chiming well with worldly Rhys!
LOVED seeing all our old favourites in their happy middle-age (and pleased to see Rowena and Caedmon are still at it like rabbits!) and WHAT A HORRID CLIFF-HANGER. Can't wait until The Sacrifice arrives on my Kindle and I can continue the ride...
After wooing us with Prince Caedmon in the first series, now we have a reversal and a modern-day hunk as the love interest. Happy to report that Rhys is equally as swoonsome, especially if you're in to the more 'alpha' males! Faedrah is charming, her confusion with the 'modern world' done well and with a light-touch, her innocence chiming well with worldly Rhys!
LOVED seeing all our old favourites in their happy middle-age (and pleased to see Rowena and Caedmon are still at it like rabbits!) and WHAT A HORRID CLIFF-HANGER. Can't wait until The Sacrifice arrives on my Kindle and I can continue the ride...
January 4, 2015
Quick enjoyable read which had me hooked from the first page.
Plenty of action, humour and romance. I especially loved the Faedrah's 'uncles' and the misunderstandings that occur when she traverses to the modern realm.
It ends on a cliff hanger so I dived straight into Book 2 as I just had to know what happened next!
Plenty of action, humour and romance. I especially loved the Faedrah's 'uncles' and the misunderstandings that occur when she traverses to the modern realm.
It ends on a cliff hanger so I dived straight into Book 2 as I just had to know what happened next!
December 14, 2014
First, an FYI: The Golden Key Legacy is a spin-off/continuation of The Golden Key Chronicles. You do not have to read the Chronicles to enjoy this book, but I strongly recommend that you do because it will make this story that much better, plus the Chronicles were REALLY good!
OK, so onto the actual review...
I read this novella in two sittings. Faedrah was a likeable character right from the start. I was thrilled that some of my favorites from the Chronicles were present as well. Rhys was a bit difficult at first, however he quickly grew on me.
The plot moved at a decent pace. This is the first novella in a series of 4 and it has set the scene and the tone for the next installments. There is a palpable sexual tension between Faedrah and Rhys and I am really looking forward to the development of their relationship. AJ has an amazing talent for writing swoonworthy men and steamy scenes.
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, and it stole my breath away. I am now anxiously awaiting the release of the second book.
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
OK, so onto the actual review...
I read this novella in two sittings. Faedrah was a likeable character right from the start. I was thrilled that some of my favorites from the Chronicles were present as well. Rhys was a bit difficult at first, however he quickly grew on me.
The plot moved at a decent pace. This is the first novella in a series of 4 and it has set the scene and the tone for the next installments. There is a palpable sexual tension between Faedrah and Rhys and I am really looking forward to the development of their relationship. AJ has an amazing talent for writing swoonworthy men and steamy scenes.
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, and it stole my breath away. I am now anxiously awaiting the release of the second book.
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2014
I received this book as a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I will start by telling you that fantasy is not my favorite genera in saying this I am not trying to take away from this book as I really enjoyed reading it. My point is that when I first started reading it I had to wrap my head around a new world and the different aspects that I am not used to. The story was a little confusing to me at first, but it drew me and and by the end I found myself wrapped up in the characters and story-line.
I will start by telling you that fantasy is not my favorite genera in saying this I am not trying to take away from this book as I really enjoyed reading it. My point is that when I first started reading it I had to wrap my head around a new world and the different aspects that I am not used to. The story was a little confusing to me at first, but it drew me and and by the end I found myself wrapped up in the characters and story-line.
December 8, 2014
*Warning: may contain spoilers*
The daughter of the couple of the century (Caedmon and Rowena from the Golden Key Chronicles) is at wit's end trying to figure out what her nightmares mean on top of trying to prove to everyone that just b/c she's a woman doesn't mean she needs to take up needlepoint and drop babies. Oh no, she's a fighter like her mother, and she wants to make it to the Gauntlet, like her mother. Trained by her cousin, Vaighn, it seems he's not letting her progress forward. But when her parents' backs are turned, he gives Faedrah and opportunity to sneak through the veil via the mirror in the armoire that will take her to her mother's realm.
It's in this realm (modern day) where she meets artist Rhys McEleod. He's been dreaming of Faedrah since age 10, and has been painting her almost as long, right down to the golden key that's been passed from her mother to her. So when he sees her in person, he can't believe his eyes - or the fact that she's no pushover! Of course he's a horn ball that just has to have her. Now I get your fantasy woman coming true and all, but WHAT is up with Rhys treating Faedrah like she's "more perfect" b/c she's a virgin, just b/c he's not run across it before, that she's better than a woman who's sure of her sexuality. Like there's something wrong with women who "aren't pure"? He's hell bent on being the first and owning her only b/c she still has a skin tag. SHE is supposed to be from the medieval ages - not him! I do NOT dig on alpha males, so this was not a turn on for me. "Virginity is nothing more than the difference between ignorance and experience" (Voltaire). He lives in the year 2014, and yet he still acts like a woman should STILL be valued by what is, or isn't, between her legs. He even makes a point of thinking he wants to own her and not letting ANY other man touch her before him...THAT is a very misogynistic way of thinking. It really did make me angry that he thought like this. I do understand how he came from a crappy home with a jerk of a father, but one's upbringing should hold no weight in a woman's experience. If you like that she is the opposite of your horrible life, fine. But if that's the case, then the one thing you should not be doing is trying to get her. I mean it's one thing to want a woman, but can we be more tactful and respectful about it please? Not to mention he's bothered b/c he thought he was left out of a conversation between Faedrah and her uncles. Come on, Rhys get over yourself. Family will always have their own conversations.
I like my women kick ass and sassy, like Faedrah was in the beginning. She held her own sparring with her cousin Vaighn, and her main goal was to prove to her kingdom and court that she should hold the throne - that her being a woman should not be relevant. She also wants to be the 2nd woman ever to fight in the Gauntlet (her mother being the first). I thought based on her feisty and non submissive attitude she was going to be a "mini me" version of Rowena, but she fell a little short of that. I get she's innocent and all (particularly in a new realm and/or time period), but that shouldn't make her any less assertive. When she meets Rhys she's angry at seeing her portrait everywhere and literally holds her own in a fight, but way too soon does she let her guard, and the walls around her,down. She went with him to his place at the first sign of danger, and that's not the daughter I would have expected Rowena to raise.
However I may not like Rhys, Faedrah does, and the two get close. Perhaps too close too fast, but close nonetheless. So much so that Faedrah convinces Rhys to try to patch things up with his father. Little does Faedrah know WHO his father actually is...
I gave this a 4 because I love the world that Nuest has created. I've read TGKC, so I know the two worlds and the back and forth that has occurred between Rowena and Caedmon. I love the fight that Rowena has even until this day. And I LOVE that after 20 + years of marriage, Ro and Caedmon still get it on every day, trust each other implicitly, and have no secrets between them - that's a real relationship!
I've seen that Faedrah isn't a weak woman, and I'm interested in seeing how she'll progress! It also ends on a major cliffhanger so I kinda don't have a choice in seeing what happens ;)
The daughter of the couple of the century (Caedmon and Rowena from the Golden Key Chronicles) is at wit's end trying to figure out what her nightmares mean on top of trying to prove to everyone that just b/c she's a woman doesn't mean she needs to take up needlepoint and drop babies. Oh no, she's a fighter like her mother, and she wants to make it to the Gauntlet, like her mother. Trained by her cousin, Vaighn, it seems he's not letting her progress forward. But when her parents' backs are turned, he gives Faedrah and opportunity to sneak through the veil via the mirror in the armoire that will take her to her mother's realm.
It's in this realm (modern day) where she meets artist Rhys McEleod. He's been dreaming of Faedrah since age 10, and has been painting her almost as long, right down to the golden key that's been passed from her mother to her. So when he sees her in person, he can't believe his eyes - or the fact that she's no pushover! Of course he's a horn ball that just has to have her. Now I get your fantasy woman coming true and all, but WHAT is up with Rhys treating Faedrah like she's "more perfect" b/c she's a virgin, just b/c he's not run across it before, that she's better than a woman who's sure of her sexuality. Like there's something wrong with women who "aren't pure"? He's hell bent on being the first and owning her only b/c she still has a skin tag. SHE is supposed to be from the medieval ages - not him! I do NOT dig on alpha males, so this was not a turn on for me. "Virginity is nothing more than the difference between ignorance and experience" (Voltaire). He lives in the year 2014, and yet he still acts like a woman should STILL be valued by what is, or isn't, between her legs. He even makes a point of thinking he wants to own her and not letting ANY other man touch her before him...THAT is a very misogynistic way of thinking. It really did make me angry that he thought like this. I do understand how he came from a crappy home with a jerk of a father, but one's upbringing should hold no weight in a woman's experience. If you like that she is the opposite of your horrible life, fine. But if that's the case, then the one thing you should not be doing is trying to get her. I mean it's one thing to want a woman, but can we be more tactful and respectful about it please? Not to mention he's bothered b/c he thought he was left out of a conversation between Faedrah and her uncles. Come on, Rhys get over yourself. Family will always have their own conversations.
I like my women kick ass and sassy, like Faedrah was in the beginning. She held her own sparring with her cousin Vaighn, and her main goal was to prove to her kingdom and court that she should hold the throne - that her being a woman should not be relevant. She also wants to be the 2nd woman ever to fight in the Gauntlet (her mother being the first). I thought based on her feisty and non submissive attitude she was going to be a "mini me" version of Rowena, but she fell a little short of that. I get she's innocent and all (particularly in a new realm and/or time period), but that shouldn't make her any less assertive. When she meets Rhys she's angry at seeing her portrait everywhere and literally holds her own in a fight, but way too soon does she let her guard, and the walls around her,down. She went with him to his place at the first sign of danger, and that's not the daughter I would have expected Rowena to raise.
However I may not like Rhys, Faedrah does, and the two get close. Perhaps too close too fast, but close nonetheless. So much so that Faedrah convinces Rhys to try to patch things up with his father. Little does Faedrah know WHO his father actually is...
I gave this a 4 because I love the world that Nuest has created. I've read TGKC, so I know the two worlds and the back and forth that has occurred between Rowena and Caedmon. I love the fight that Rowena has even until this day. And I LOVE that after 20 + years of marriage, Ro and Caedmon still get it on every day, trust each other implicitly, and have no secrets between them - that's a real relationship!
I've seen that Faedrah isn't a weak woman, and I'm interested in seeing how she'll progress! It also ends on a major cliffhanger so I kinda don't have a choice in seeing what happens ;)
January 24, 2015
Tits of the Nine!!! If you read the Golden Key Chronicles, you can't help but get transported once again....this time to the future - with King Caedmon and Queen Rowena's only child, Princess Faedrah! This warrior princess is badass and beautiful with the pent up angst of nightmares about the infamous evil wizard, Galleod. When she jumps through the mirror - just like her mother did all those years ago - I felt the chills tingle down my spine. And, best of all, who would be waiting for her but "Uncle" Ollie and "Uncle" Jon!!! I cried to see the return of one of my favs from the Chronicles.
NOW, what I loved most about this book was the captivating way AJ Nuest weaves her new hero, Rhys McEleod, into this tale. He's a brooding artist - smoldering, complicated - and he's been seeing Faedrah in his dreams since he was a child, drawing her, painting her, emulating her in any way he can despite the fact that he doesn't realize she's living. She is his "muse" for his works of art that have been selling like hotcakes in Chicago. Rhys has his own complicated past with a family from hell, and his immediate attraction to Faedrah is fantastic! AJ knows how to get your blood pumping, and as a reader, I absolutely felt the sexual tension between these two characters the minute she slaps him down in the middle of a Chicago gallery. It is deliciously spicy, and if it's possible, I like Rhys and Faedrah more than I did Caedmon and Rowena!
No spoilers here, but you will want to read "The Sacrifice" - the second in this four book series - IMMEDIATELY! I couldn't wait to find out what happens between these two. AJ has done it once again, and I can't wait to finish this series!
NOW, what I loved most about this book was the captivating way AJ Nuest weaves her new hero, Rhys McEleod, into this tale. He's a brooding artist - smoldering, complicated - and he's been seeing Faedrah in his dreams since he was a child, drawing her, painting her, emulating her in any way he can despite the fact that he doesn't realize she's living. She is his "muse" for his works of art that have been selling like hotcakes in Chicago. Rhys has his own complicated past with a family from hell, and his immediate attraction to Faedrah is fantastic! AJ knows how to get your blood pumping, and as a reader, I absolutely felt the sexual tension between these two characters the minute she slaps him down in the middle of a Chicago gallery. It is deliciously spicy, and if it's possible, I like Rhys and Faedrah more than I did Caedmon and Rowena!
No spoilers here, but you will want to read "The Sacrifice" - the second in this four book series - IMMEDIATELY! I couldn't wait to find out what happens between these two. AJ has done it once again, and I can't wait to finish this series!
February 23, 2015
This is not the usual reading material for me, but AJ Nuest was a new to me author so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm so glad I did. A Furious Muse is a very well written book. I enjoyed the story and characters. The only part I didn't like was the cliff-hanger ending. I'm not a fan of cliff-hangers. I would have happily rated this 5 stars if not for the ending, or rather the non end. Some people like cliff-hangers, but I'm not one of them. This book is a short read for those with limited time for reading.
April 26, 2015
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth
Okay so A Furious Muse is the first part in The Golden Key Legacy series, each part will continue on from each other so all will be needed to be read to see how it all ends. Now here’s the thing, this book leaves you begging for the next part so I’d advice having all four parts of The Golden Key Legacy ready so you can carry on reading. AJ Nuest’s writing is wonderful, her stories almost sing out pictures while you’re reading them. I honestly can’t get enough of this series. Wonderfully brilliant, I’m in love with this series.
Opening Scene:
The low caress of a maniacal laugh raised the hair on her arms, and Faedrah paused in her flight up the stairs.
The Review:
As the single heir to the half-blood gypsy king and his prophesied white queen, Princess Faedrah Austiere has been defined by her place within the kingdom. She is fiercely protected, shuttered inside an ivory castle and well trained in the art of war. Yet the duties as a future queen and the black infestation threatening her kingdom, fail to hinder the mysterious and relenting pull of the antique armoire hidden in her parents’ bedchamber. Stealing the golden key and leaping through time, Faedrah is determined to confront the dark lord haunting her dreams.
Rhys McEleod has been haunted by one face for the past twenty years. One face he can’t stop painting. One face, the face of a woman so fierce and beautiful she’s the only one he ever paints. The face of his muse a woman he doesn’t even believe exists, until she walks into his art gallery sexy as hell and looking for a fight. He’s still unsure she’s the same woman he’s envisioned since childhood, until he spots the golden key around her neck. Something he’s never fully shown in any of his paintings.
Now all he has to do is convince her he’s not the enemy and that they are destined for one another.
Notable Scene:
One of her arms lifted, and she aimed a sharp finger at her picture on the wall. “Would you care to explain the meaning of this…this abomination? And I caution you to speak plainly, or I shall be compelled to extract the truth by more than simple query alone.”
Holy mother of God, that voice. He slumped. The cutting British accent and old world dialect were so much better than he could’ve ever anticipated.
On leaden legs, he clomped forward a step…and then one more. Not a day had gone by he hadn’t fantasized about running into her like this. Someplace unexpected. Where he would never predict she’d been waiting for him.
But she couldn’t be real. No way, no way could he seriously be staring into the face of the one woman by whom he’d judged all others. The one who was so perfect she couldn’t possibly exist.
FTC Advisory: A.J. Nuest provided me with a copy of A Furious Muse by AJ Nuest. Published through Harper Impulse. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Okay so A Furious Muse is the first part in The Golden Key Legacy series, each part will continue on from each other so all will be needed to be read to see how it all ends. Now here’s the thing, this book leaves you begging for the next part so I’d advice having all four parts of The Golden Key Legacy ready so you can carry on reading. AJ Nuest’s writing is wonderful, her stories almost sing out pictures while you’re reading them. I honestly can’t get enough of this series. Wonderfully brilliant, I’m in love with this series.
Opening Scene:
The low caress of a maniacal laugh raised the hair on her arms, and Faedrah paused in her flight up the stairs.
The Review:
As the single heir to the half-blood gypsy king and his prophesied white queen, Princess Faedrah Austiere has been defined by her place within the kingdom. She is fiercely protected, shuttered inside an ivory castle and well trained in the art of war. Yet the duties as a future queen and the black infestation threatening her kingdom, fail to hinder the mysterious and relenting pull of the antique armoire hidden in her parents’ bedchamber. Stealing the golden key and leaping through time, Faedrah is determined to confront the dark lord haunting her dreams.
Rhys McEleod has been haunted by one face for the past twenty years. One face he can’t stop painting. One face, the face of a woman so fierce and beautiful she’s the only one he ever paints. The face of his muse a woman he doesn’t even believe exists, until she walks into his art gallery sexy as hell and looking for a fight. He’s still unsure she’s the same woman he’s envisioned since childhood, until he spots the golden key around her neck. Something he’s never fully shown in any of his paintings.
Now all he has to do is convince her he’s not the enemy and that they are destined for one another.
Notable Scene:
One of her arms lifted, and she aimed a sharp finger at her picture on the wall. “Would you care to explain the meaning of this…this abomination? And I caution you to speak plainly, or I shall be compelled to extract the truth by more than simple query alone.”
Holy mother of God, that voice. He slumped. The cutting British accent and old world dialect were so much better than he could’ve ever anticipated.
On leaden legs, he clomped forward a step…and then one more. Not a day had gone by he hadn’t fantasized about running into her like this. Someplace unexpected. Where he would never predict she’d been waiting for him.
But she couldn’t be real. No way, no way could he seriously be staring into the face of the one woman by whom he’d judged all others. The one who was so perfect she couldn’t possibly exist.
FTC Advisory: A.J. Nuest provided me with a copy of A Furious Muse by AJ Nuest. Published through Harper Impulse. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
March 6, 2015
4 1/2 stars I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book starts out with Faedrah, the princess of the Austiere Kingdom, trying desperately to measure up to the high self-imposed expectations she has in regards to her mother. She wants to be just as beautiful, strong, warrior-like, graceful…the list goes on and on. In finding out that an evil mage, apparently the same evil mage that has been haunting her nightmares, is destroying her kingdom, she goes against her parents’ wishes and enters into the magic mirror.
And suddenly we find ourselves in modern-day Chicago. How she didn’t suddenly have a massive culture shock is beyond me, but of course, she is Faedrah. She meets Rhys, whom she instantly distrusts and is convinced he’s the evil wizard. Rhys is just an artist obsessed with a certain woman in his head, who just so happens to pop into real life, in the form of Faedrah.
The world built around the book is fascinating. I love the change of language tone between Rhys with his modern day speech, and Faedrah, with her stilted, overly formal speech. I haven’t read the first series, so I wasn’t introduced ahead of time to the previous characters of the King and Queen, but its really not necessary to enjoy this series.
This book starts out with Faedrah, the princess of the Austiere Kingdom, trying desperately to measure up to the high self-imposed expectations she has in regards to her mother. She wants to be just as beautiful, strong, warrior-like, graceful…the list goes on and on. In finding out that an evil mage, apparently the same evil mage that has been haunting her nightmares, is destroying her kingdom, she goes against her parents’ wishes and enters into the magic mirror.
And suddenly we find ourselves in modern-day Chicago. How she didn’t suddenly have a massive culture shock is beyond me, but of course, she is Faedrah. She meets Rhys, whom she instantly distrusts and is convinced he’s the evil wizard. Rhys is just an artist obsessed with a certain woman in his head, who just so happens to pop into real life, in the form of Faedrah.
The world built around the book is fascinating. I love the change of language tone between Rhys with his modern day speech, and Faedrah, with her stilted, overly formal speech. I haven’t read the first series, so I wasn’t introduced ahead of time to the previous characters of the King and Queen, but its really not necessary to enjoy this series.
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