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The Mythean Arcana #1
Braving Fate
As chaos looms, a warrior queen is reborn
Bookish academic Diana Laughton has been having terrible dreams. Dreams of battle, dreams of blood… dreams so vivid she's living them day and night. When demons invade her quiet life, she wonders if she’s going mad. Or if perhaps she's remembering a past life she had no idea existed…
In the midst of betrayal, he must protect her
Mythean Guardian Cadan Trinovante loved and betrayed Britain's warrior queen Boudica two millennia ago. Now he’s tasked with protecting mortals whose lives affect the fate of humanity. His latest assignment is Boudica herself, reincarnated as a woman with no idea of her past or her fated future. Though in the irresistible form of Diana Laughton, it's possible Cadan has once again met his match…
To succumb to seduction could prove fatal
Thrown together in a shadowy world that exists alongside our own, Diana and Cadan must fight not only the demonic forces that want Diana dead, but a past and a passion that have lasted centuries. Their desire could be deadly. But as evil from the underworld unites against them, their only hope could be each other.
Bookish academic Diana Laughton has been having terrible dreams. Dreams of battle, dreams of blood… dreams so vivid she's living them day and night. When demons invade her quiet life, she wonders if she’s going mad. Or if perhaps she's remembering a past life she had no idea existed…
In the midst of betrayal, he must protect her
Mythean Guardian Cadan Trinovante loved and betrayed Britain's warrior queen Boudica two millennia ago. Now he’s tasked with protecting mortals whose lives affect the fate of humanity. His latest assignment is Boudica herself, reincarnated as a woman with no idea of her past or her fated future. Though in the irresistible form of Diana Laughton, it's possible Cadan has once again met his match…
To succumb to seduction could prove fatal
Thrown together in a shadowy world that exists alongside our own, Diana and Cadan must fight not only the demonic forces that want Diana dead, but a past and a passion that have lasted centuries. Their desire could be deadly. But as evil from the underworld unites against them, their only hope could be each other.
345 pages, ebook
First published November 8, 2014
1406 people are currently reading
2428 people want to read
About the author
Linsey Hall
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Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
For giveaways, contests and book discussion join my Facebook group
here!
Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
November 10, 2014
This review was originally posted on One Curvy Blogger
It's been almost a week since I read Braving Fate, and I'm just now forcing myself to review it. I was blown away by how much love I have for this book and now I'm finding it difficult to explain the why. The only series I can compare its likeness to is probably the Dark-Hunter series by Sherrilyn Kenyon and the Lord's of the Underworld series by Gena Showalter, because of its mixture of the paranormal, mythology, and heated romance. Make no mistake, this book is unique in its own ways. The world building is phenomenal, and her writing magical... I predict Linsey Hall becoming an award-winning author herself, one of these days!
Mythology is a fast favorite of mine, whether mythology appears in romance novels or historical documentaries, when I hear of one, I'm there. I admit I was skeptical of this one. The cover had me convinced the book would be more about romance than world building. I figured the mythology would be more backstory than anything else, and thankfully I was wrong to assume this, and here's why I absolutely enjoyed this, and can't wait for more:
Every character, even the secondary character's that play less than small parts, are so well-developed, that they felt real. It also felt as if I got to know them just as well as the main characters. I cared about all of them, and each person drew some sort of emotion from me - anger, love, annoyance, confusion, intrigue.
A large part of this story takes place in a mystical university created to apprehend long dead spirits escaping old and forgotten underworlds. Though most of the important parts of this story happen away from the school, I can't help but hope that the next couple of stories happen within it. I yearn for a more detailed description of this mysterious school that reminds me of a grown up Hogwarts, if its goal was to stop evil, and not to teach young wizards to control their magic.
The emotions were so believable, I didn't even hate the drama! I can't stand over-the-top drama (ironic, considering my choice in fiction literature) It was spot on human nature, and I loved how Diana and Cadan weren't annoyingly perfect in the least. There is nothing that makes me want to bang my head against a wall more than a character that never seems to get what's coming to them, even when they deserve it. It goes against all the lessons I was taught about facing the consequences of my actions. Yes, even the good guys should get a slap on the hand every once in awhile (this does not present my view on corporal punishment, folks).
The borderline kink sexiness was so surprising to me. Braving Fate just didn't seem like the type of book to have amateur bondage scenes. I like!
Diana is an assistant professor in the process of writing a book she hopes will move her up the professorial ladder quicker. She's had dreams her whole life of dying and betrayal at the hands of her lover, but she never knew that those things actually happened and that she was fated to save the world from some mysterious dark force that only she knows how to stop.
Like Cadan, I am drawn to the sexy smarts in my heroines. Not only was she smart and sexy, she didn't put up with Cadan's bullshit over-protective gene he carried over from 1st Century AD, and even went so far as binding him to the bed and trying to seduce the answers from him. It didn't work the way she planned, but it produced a nice sex scene that I, err.. the characters found quite enjoyable for all. Suffice to say, she was an awesome main character.
I also loved Cadan, even though I repeatedly felt the urge to hit him over the head with a blunt object and yell, "STOP BEING A SEXIST JERK." His reasoning behind his over-protective behavior that essentially led Boudica to feel betrayed by him felt warranted when Diana finally gets the truth out of the stubborn Celt, and I was glad when he apologized for being a jackass. The miscommunication is actually enjoyable in Braving Fate, especially since it isn't the answer to all the conflict! I hate miscommunication as the basis for a book.
Braving Fate is the perfect paranormal romance for any love was also deep enough for fantasy lovers to get their kicks as well. It was a fun, hot little read that I can see myself re-reading over and over again. I hope it's available in print soon, I would totally pay for a paper copy of this book! Fans of mythology, Gena Showalter, or Sherrilyn Kenyon should give this a go. You won't regret it!
❤ - I may have received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
❤❤ - Check out One Curvy Blogger for reviews, giveaways, interviews, and more!
❤❤❤ - Now accepting review requests, author interviews, and guest blogs.
It's been almost a week since I read Braving Fate, and I'm just now forcing myself to review it. I was blown away by how much love I have for this book and now I'm finding it difficult to explain the why. The only series I can compare its likeness to is probably the Dark-Hunter series by Sherrilyn Kenyon and the Lord's of the Underworld series by Gena Showalter, because of its mixture of the paranormal, mythology, and heated romance. Make no mistake, this book is unique in its own ways. The world building is phenomenal, and her writing magical... I predict Linsey Hall becoming an award-winning author herself, one of these days!
Mythology is a fast favorite of mine, whether mythology appears in romance novels or historical documentaries, when I hear of one, I'm there. I admit I was skeptical of this one. The cover had me convinced the book would be more about romance than world building. I figured the mythology would be more backstory than anything else, and thankfully I was wrong to assume this, and here's why I absolutely enjoyed this, and can't wait for more:
Every character, even the secondary character's that play less than small parts, are so well-developed, that they felt real. It also felt as if I got to know them just as well as the main characters. I cared about all of them, and each person drew some sort of emotion from me - anger, love, annoyance, confusion, intrigue.
A large part of this story takes place in a mystical university created to apprehend long dead spirits escaping old and forgotten underworlds. Though most of the important parts of this story happen away from the school, I can't help but hope that the next couple of stories happen within it. I yearn for a more detailed description of this mysterious school that reminds me of a grown up Hogwarts, if its goal was to stop evil, and not to teach young wizards to control their magic.
The emotions were so believable, I didn't even hate the drama! I can't stand over-the-top drama (ironic, considering my choice in fiction literature) It was spot on human nature, and I loved how Diana and Cadan weren't annoyingly perfect in the least. There is nothing that makes me want to bang my head against a wall more than a character that never seems to get what's coming to them, even when they deserve it. It goes against all the lessons I was taught about facing the consequences of my actions. Yes, even the good guys should get a slap on the hand every once in awhile (this does not present my view on corporal punishment, folks).
The borderline kink sexiness was so surprising to me. Braving Fate just didn't seem like the type of book to have amateur bondage scenes. I like!
With her glasses perched above a straight nose and the intelligence shining behind her eyes, she looked like a 1940s pin-up librarian. . .He hadn't known he had a fetish for sexy librarians.
Diana is an assistant professor in the process of writing a book she hopes will move her up the professorial ladder quicker. She's had dreams her whole life of dying and betrayal at the hands of her lover, but she never knew that those things actually happened and that she was fated to save the world from some mysterious dark force that only she knows how to stop.
Like Cadan, I am drawn to the sexy smarts in my heroines. Not only was she smart and sexy, she didn't put up with Cadan's bullshit over-protective gene he carried over from 1st Century AD, and even went so far as binding him to the bed and trying to seduce the answers from him. It didn't work the way she planned, but it produced a nice sex scene that I, err.. the characters found quite enjoyable for all. Suffice to say, she was an awesome main character.
I also loved Cadan, even though I repeatedly felt the urge to hit him over the head with a blunt object and yell, "STOP BEING A SEXIST JERK." His reasoning behind his over-protective behavior that essentially led Boudica to feel betrayed by him felt warranted when Diana finally gets the truth out of the stubborn Celt, and I was glad when he apologized for being a jackass. The miscommunication is actually enjoyable in Braving Fate, especially since it isn't the answer to all the conflict! I hate miscommunication as the basis for a book.
Braving Fate is the perfect paranormal romance for any love was also deep enough for fantasy lovers to get their kicks as well. It was a fun, hot little read that I can see myself re-reading over and over again. I hope it's available in print soon, I would totally pay for a paper copy of this book! Fans of mythology, Gena Showalter, or Sherrilyn Kenyon should give this a go. You won't regret it!
❤ - I may have received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
❤❤ - Check out One Curvy Blogger for reviews, giveaways, interviews, and more!
❤❤❤ - Now accepting review requests, author interviews, and guest blogs.
May 20, 2015
About 1/3 in I checked to see if this was the author's first book, the writing and flow of the story had the sort of lack of maturity you find in seasoned author's stories. (From what my quick Google search found it is the first) Intriguing plot points of reincarnation, mythology, and hidden wars being waged in the "mortal" realm but everything didn't quite tie together for me. The romance between the leads felt forced through the reincarnation point and forced by how the author seemed to overwrite the sex scenes with sexually charged words. I love dirty words myself but they just didn't fit in that it felt like "Hey, I said cock so this should be a hot and heavy scene on that alone!"
I would be interested if anyone has continued in the series and if the author's writing has matured at all, of course maybe this author's style just might not be for me. The story is tantalizing in its unique feeling.
I would be interested if anyone has continued in the series and if the author's writing has matured at all, of course maybe this author's style just might not be for me. The story is tantalizing in its unique feeling.
February 18, 2015
I read a delicious review over at One Curvy Blogger and the author saw my interest. She was kind enough to send me a copy. I am so glad that she did. I have been on a bit of an UF/paranormal romance kick of late and Braving Fate really hit the spot. Fantastic characters, interesting world-building and a fast pace had me quickly lost within the pages.
The world: I love secret societies, especially those designed to protect us mere humans. In Edinburgh, Scotland there is a secret race known as the Mytheans. Here they have a university hidden from humans. Hello Hogwarts or Xavier's School? Hall does a lovely job of explaining the society its hierarchy and mission. I want to get lost in their library.
The characters: When he was human, Mythean Guardian, Cadan Trinovante, loved and betrayed Boudica, Britain’s warrior queen. History Professor Diana Laughton begins having strange dreams and when a monster tries to kill her she feels an overwhelming need to travel to Scotland. Cadan learns he has a new assignment to protect a reincarnated woman who must complete the task that has awaken her. He finds that Diana is Boudica. Yum...second chance romance, wicked banter, anger, lust...oh yeah.
The romance: I adore second chance romances and immediately wanted Cadan to get his happily ever after. Hall created chemistry and allowed me to feel his internal struggle over Diana and awakening Boudica’s memories. Diana is strong and handles the information thrown at her surprising well. Hall built up the tension between them, allowed Cadan growth and brought some deliciously wicked heat. Get the fans out ladies. Cadan will make you swoon. I became totally vested in the couple and embraced all the feels.
The plot: Hall chose to tell the story of Queen Boudica and I adored her version of this mighty female warrior. Hall has an interesting take on resurrection and I found it quite clever. Diana must regain Boudica’s memories and figure out what task has been fated to her. It looks like each book will focus on one couple and an assignment giving us a complete romance and storyline. We see a romance developing between secondary characters and I cannot wait for more.
Copy provided by author This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
The world: I love secret societies, especially those designed to protect us mere humans. In Edinburgh, Scotland there is a secret race known as the Mytheans. Here they have a university hidden from humans. Hello Hogwarts or Xavier's School? Hall does a lovely job of explaining the society its hierarchy and mission. I want to get lost in their library.
The characters: When he was human, Mythean Guardian, Cadan Trinovante, loved and betrayed Boudica, Britain’s warrior queen. History Professor Diana Laughton begins having strange dreams and when a monster tries to kill her she feels an overwhelming need to travel to Scotland. Cadan learns he has a new assignment to protect a reincarnated woman who must complete the task that has awaken her. He finds that Diana is Boudica. Yum...second chance romance, wicked banter, anger, lust...oh yeah.
The romance: I adore second chance romances and immediately wanted Cadan to get his happily ever after. Hall created chemistry and allowed me to feel his internal struggle over Diana and awakening Boudica’s memories. Diana is strong and handles the information thrown at her surprising well. Hall built up the tension between them, allowed Cadan growth and brought some deliciously wicked heat. Get the fans out ladies. Cadan will make you swoon. I became totally vested in the couple and embraced all the feels.
The plot: Hall chose to tell the story of Queen Boudica and I adored her version of this mighty female warrior. Hall has an interesting take on resurrection and I found it quite clever. Diana must regain Boudica’s memories and figure out what task has been fated to her. It looks like each book will focus on one couple and an assignment giving us a complete romance and storyline. We see a romance developing between secondary characters and I cannot wait for more.
Copy provided by author This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
November 2, 2014
This book was a surprise for me, I really thought it was going to be some mediocre effort that I was given a copy to review. I am very glad to report I was very wrong (and as soon as I write this review I am grabbing book #2 of this series if I can find an ARC)
Diana is a professor whose only real concern other than some bad dreams she has had almost all her life, is just to get tenure at the college where she is employed. Her life is about to take some major turns into the paranormal and she is being pursued bu some kind of monsters. Yea, life just got really interesting and really dangerous, let us not forget hoping she is sane.
Cadan is your run of the mill male hunk who takes alpha male to a new level and it is not pretty, he would never think so but he is almost to the point of thinking of women as a possession, a very cherished possession but he needs some help in the "me Tarzan you Jane" department.
The crux of the problem is that he is crazy about Diana and she might feel the same if he could get his head removed from his posterior.
Diana is the sort of reincarnation of an ancient female warrior and that was also Cadan's lost love he thinks so he is trying to keep Diana from her destiny to protect her. The boy don't really think things through a lot but he has a good heart so it is a really good romance that has to be worked at before anything can happen.
Bottom Line: This was a great mix of action and romance. I probably would have given it 5 stars but the last 2-3 chapters were kinda cheesy and did not match up to the rest of the book in quality IMHO. It was still a great ending but at least a couple of times I was like "did he/she really just do/say that?". make no mistake though, I WILL be getting the next book to see what happens to one of the other characters we are introduced to, this was done very well also and I give it 4.3 Stars and rounded it down just because the last couple of chapters disappointed me in quality but loved the plot and the ending.
Douglas C. Meeks
Member of the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
Diana is a professor whose only real concern other than some bad dreams she has had almost all her life, is just to get tenure at the college where she is employed. Her life is about to take some major turns into the paranormal and she is being pursued bu some kind of monsters. Yea, life just got really interesting and really dangerous, let us not forget hoping she is sane.
Cadan is your run of the mill male hunk who takes alpha male to a new level and it is not pretty, he would never think so but he is almost to the point of thinking of women as a possession, a very cherished possession but he needs some help in the "me Tarzan you Jane" department.
The crux of the problem is that he is crazy about Diana and she might feel the same if he could get his head removed from his posterior.
Diana is the sort of reincarnation of an ancient female warrior and that was also Cadan's lost love he thinks so he is trying to keep Diana from her destiny to protect her. The boy don't really think things through a lot but he has a good heart so it is a really good romance that has to be worked at before anything can happen.
Bottom Line: This was a great mix of action and romance. I probably would have given it 5 stars but the last 2-3 chapters were kinda cheesy and did not match up to the rest of the book in quality IMHO. It was still a great ending but at least a couple of times I was like "did he/she really just do/say that?". make no mistake though, I WILL be getting the next book to see what happens to one of the other characters we are introduced to, this was done very well also and I give it 4.3 Stars and rounded it down just because the last couple of chapters disappointed me in quality but loved the plot and the ending.
Douglas C. Meeks
Member of the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
September 28, 2014
In Edinburgh, Scotland exists an ancient, secret race of Mytheans . . . and History Professor Diana Laughton crashes into this world after an unexpected visit from a monster. Her controlled, quiet life and quest for tenure are destroyed.
Cadan, a Mythean Guardian, must protect her from an unknown enemy. But being near Diana is torture because she is a reincarnate soul that was his lover hundreds of years earlier. It did not end well the first time. And if she learns the truth about their past, she will surely hate him in the present.
I loved this book! It's vibrant, exciting, fast-paced and clever. Fans of Kresley Cole will enjoy this author's strong heroine and the sizzling love scenes. The writing is intense and the characters, even the secondary ones, are well-drawn. The saucy dialogue sparkles and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Highly recommended.
Cadan, a Mythean Guardian, must protect her from an unknown enemy. But being near Diana is torture because she is a reincarnate soul that was his lover hundreds of years earlier. It did not end well the first time. And if she learns the truth about their past, she will surely hate him in the present.
I loved this book! It's vibrant, exciting, fast-paced and clever. Fans of Kresley Cole will enjoy this author's strong heroine and the sizzling love scenes. The writing is intense and the characters, even the secondary ones, are well-drawn. The saucy dialogue sparkles and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Highly recommended.
March 6, 2015
I love this book! The characters, and even the side characters, were well developed. The story was gripping, and had just the right pace. I love Celtic mythology, so this was a very interesting read. Can't wait to read the second book.
*Copy received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
*Copy received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
May 14, 2015
Now THIS was something new - and you know me, new is most of the times translation for "I've never seen this, now I have, and GOD it was awesome"!
Cadan Trinovante is a Mythean Guardian, an Immortal whose duty is to protect those that affect humanity greatly. He's loyal to his cause, and never gets completely attached to those he protects. But his new mission is about to prove tricky. Diana Laughton, a woman seeking to work as a professor one day, is the reincarnation of Boudica, the ancient Celtic warrior queen, and she's in real trouble. Demons are after her, an enemy of Boudica's wants to kill her, and a man she's instantly attracted to is trying to protect her, but hides a ton of secrets that could very well bring back her past life's memories. Can she survive even against the odds saying she's meant to die after fulfilling her mission? And will Cadan be able to get a second chance for his heart, when the same woman who once threw it away is once again by his side, about to be taken by death once more?
I simply LOVED this book. And I'm ecstatic that it's the first of the series, because I couldn't possibly be able to be satisfied with just one story about the Mytheans.
What to praise first? The story that was full of plot twists and surprises? The pace that never let me take a breath? The characters that were a perfect mix of contemporary and legend?
Well, this book was all this, and more. It was fast in pace, packed with action, and the characters were wonderful in the mixed natures. I mean, usually immortal characters are overdoing it with using modern facilities, like the writers are trying their hardest to prove that those beings that came from the ancient times can really live in our century. Ok, we don't doubt they can, no need to keep rubbing it in our faces.
But Ms. Hall did her characters justice. They were fairly good in blending with modern society, but they hadn't forgotten their roots, their history. They were modest in using technology, and while they did that, they didn't overdo it with their supernatural abilities, either.
A perfect balance!
What is more, the romance in the story was equally hot AND emotional. For the first time in so long, we actually see a guy who finds the woman he believed to be his one true love, NOT trying to change the reincarnation into her original form. See, Cadan knew he was falling in love with Diana. He did fight it, but he didn't try to turn her into another Boudica. He saw her for who she really was. It was refreshing to read, and yes, I think deep down, he instinctively knew Boudica hadn't really loved him, not the way Diana did.
Well done, Cadan!
Diana was also an interesting female. She was scared out of her wits, didn't try to hide it or act tough, yet didn't become a useless damsel in distress, either. No, she tried to become stronger, to find answers to her questions, and was always willing to help as long as it was within her powers to do so. The way she treated Cadan had me cringing at times, of course, but then I kept reminding myself that Boudica played a major part in that, so it was easy to transfer my dislike towards her person and enjoy the rest of the story.
Now I can't wait to read Warren and Esha's story. Something tells me theirs is a love-hate relationship, and I love those!
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
Cadan Trinovante is a Mythean Guardian, an Immortal whose duty is to protect those that affect humanity greatly. He's loyal to his cause, and never gets completely attached to those he protects. But his new mission is about to prove tricky. Diana Laughton, a woman seeking to work as a professor one day, is the reincarnation of Boudica, the ancient Celtic warrior queen, and she's in real trouble. Demons are after her, an enemy of Boudica's wants to kill her, and a man she's instantly attracted to is trying to protect her, but hides a ton of secrets that could very well bring back her past life's memories. Can she survive even against the odds saying she's meant to die after fulfilling her mission? And will Cadan be able to get a second chance for his heart, when the same woman who once threw it away is once again by his side, about to be taken by death once more?
I simply LOVED this book. And I'm ecstatic that it's the first of the series, because I couldn't possibly be able to be satisfied with just one story about the Mytheans.
What to praise first? The story that was full of plot twists and surprises? The pace that never let me take a breath? The characters that were a perfect mix of contemporary and legend?
Well, this book was all this, and more. It was fast in pace, packed with action, and the characters were wonderful in the mixed natures. I mean, usually immortal characters are overdoing it with using modern facilities, like the writers are trying their hardest to prove that those beings that came from the ancient times can really live in our century. Ok, we don't doubt they can, no need to keep rubbing it in our faces.
But Ms. Hall did her characters justice. They were fairly good in blending with modern society, but they hadn't forgotten their roots, their history. They were modest in using technology, and while they did that, they didn't overdo it with their supernatural abilities, either.
A perfect balance!
What is more, the romance in the story was equally hot AND emotional. For the first time in so long, we actually see a guy who finds the woman he believed to be his one true love, NOT trying to change the reincarnation into her original form. See, Cadan knew he was falling in love with Diana. He did fight it, but he didn't try to turn her into another Boudica. He saw her for who she really was. It was refreshing to read, and yes, I think deep down, he instinctively knew Boudica hadn't really loved him, not the way Diana did.
Well done, Cadan!
Diana was also an interesting female. She was scared out of her wits, didn't try to hide it or act tough, yet didn't become a useless damsel in distress, either. No, she tried to become stronger, to find answers to her questions, and was always willing to help as long as it was within her powers to do so. The way she treated Cadan had me cringing at times, of course, but then I kept reminding myself that Boudica played a major part in that, so it was easy to transfer my dislike towards her person and enjoy the rest of the story.
Now I can't wait to read Warren and Esha's story. Something tells me theirs is a love-hate relationship, and I love those!
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
September 4, 2016
At first I was interested. Then I realized that the centuries old immortals were acting like a bunch of teenagers, just thinking how to get laid and couldn't think straight. I would give them a drawn sheep to guard, not to mention portals between the worlds. The Otherworlds system has no sense, maybe it will in the following books, but I won't be reading about it.
And the "torture" method? Yeah, that's not torture.
And the "torture" method? Yeah, that's not torture.
November 22, 2014
This was a nice read but not as powerful and exciting as the second Book. It feels more like a Build-up for the second Book. All in all it was nevertheless a Good read
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May 31, 2022
I never would have guessed this was a debut novel. So good!
I've read quite a number of Linsey Hall's other books, and this was similar with the history and archaeological sites involved, but still very different. The heat level was higher than I anticipated, but was amazingly well done. (I tend to cringe a lot, but I am happy to report no globes of flesh, velvet sheaths or weird sausage metaphors were used in this book.)
There's quite a lot of worldbuilding and lore in here, and while the book centres around one couple, it also focuses on another future couple (with scenes and backstories from both of their POVs) and a few others who I would assume get future books. So while it is primarily about Diana and Cadan, I would also say it's the start of the MCs in book two's story as well. The two relationships kinda play out exactly the same way though, which was a bit repetitive, but I'm still very interested to see where it goes.
I've read quite a number of Linsey Hall's other books, and this was similar with the history and archaeological sites involved, but still very different. The heat level was higher than I anticipated, but was amazingly well done. (I tend to cringe a lot, but I am happy to report no globes of flesh, velvet sheaths or weird sausage metaphors were used in this book.)
There's quite a lot of worldbuilding and lore in here, and while the book centres around one couple, it also focuses on another future couple (with scenes and backstories from both of their POVs) and a few others who I would assume get future books. So while it is primarily about Diana and Cadan, I would also say it's the start of the MCs in book two's story as well. The two relationships kinda play out exactly the same way though, which was a bit repetitive, but I'm still very interested to see where it goes.
November 4, 2014
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
It took my a while to read this one. At first, I was pretty sure that this was going to be a tough read and that I'd have a hard time finishing. I'd recently read another book featuring mythological figures and although THAT one was an okay read, THIS one was lots more fun to read!
Diana was a well-rounded heroine. Now, maybe you're thinking, "Ugh, boooooring!" but I swear, she isn't boring! Well, maybe at first she's a teensy bit boring. She's trying to get tenure at the university she works for. And one of her fields is medieval history. So sure, it might sound boring but she quickly becomes WAY more than a simple college professor wanna-be! This is revealed right away in the book but Diana is the reincarnated legendary warrior queen, Boudica. You do not need to Google Boudica in order to appreciate the story. In fact, don't do any research at all. Everything you need to know is in the book. But the reason that I said that Diana was well-rounded is because she's part nerdy college professor, part legendary warrior and she's also part normal, modern woman. And it's that part of her that I liked most. She can be standing in line at Starbucks one minute, running for her life the next minute, and then she realizes that she has to try to fight for her life. I mean, she was brave and ballsy and a total chicken shit at different times in this book and I loved that about her!
Oooh Cadan is pretty cool. He was part of Boudica's life when she first lived and then he became a type of immortal guardian. I don't want to get too deep into his backstory because you'll find out when you read it. But he's been dogged by guilt ever since Boudica. He's been trying to make up for his perceived sins for hundreds of years. Now, I went back and forth with liking and not liking Cadan. At first, I liked him. He was hot (duh!) and strong and he wanted to protect Boudica and then Diana. But as Diana came into her own a little more, there was a while that I didn't like him. He lied to Diana, more than once. And he did it to protect her but it made me so mad at him. I like when I can't make up my mind about a character. And I like when I change my mind about a character while reading the book. My feelings about Cadan depended on who's point of view I was seeing things from and I think I loved it!
Cadan and Diana are amazing together. But that's to be expected from a couple that has been together during more than one lifetime! As far as Sexy Time goes, it's slow to start but once they connect... Whooo Hooo! Look out! It's spicy and hot and frequent! Hel-lo! But they really work together, in part, because at first, she's the brains and he's the brawn. Then later, and this is where it gets REALLY awesome, Diana is the brains AND the brawn! But Cadan is never left behind - he's there with her and is an integral part of her journey.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this book. I think readers who already enjoy fantasy-style romances will enjoy this one but I'm not a huge fantasy romance fan and I still loved it. So you don't HAVE to love fantasy. Especially since much of this story takes place in current time and it takes place here on Earth. This book features an imperfect hero and a heroine who doesn't fully realize her full potential until later on in the book. It was a lot of fun to read and I was rooting for our main couple pretty much the whole time. I'm intrigued by what's going to come next and I'll be checking out the next book in this series!!
It took my a while to read this one. At first, I was pretty sure that this was going to be a tough read and that I'd have a hard time finishing. I'd recently read another book featuring mythological figures and although THAT one was an okay read, THIS one was lots more fun to read!
Diana was a well-rounded heroine. Now, maybe you're thinking, "Ugh, boooooring!" but I swear, she isn't boring! Well, maybe at first she's a teensy bit boring. She's trying to get tenure at the university she works for. And one of her fields is medieval history. So sure, it might sound boring but she quickly becomes WAY more than a simple college professor wanna-be! This is revealed right away in the book but Diana is the reincarnated legendary warrior queen, Boudica. You do not need to Google Boudica in order to appreciate the story. In fact, don't do any research at all. Everything you need to know is in the book. But the reason that I said that Diana was well-rounded is because she's part nerdy college professor, part legendary warrior and she's also part normal, modern woman. And it's that part of her that I liked most. She can be standing in line at Starbucks one minute, running for her life the next minute, and then she realizes that she has to try to fight for her life. I mean, she was brave and ballsy and a total chicken shit at different times in this book and I loved that about her!
Oooh Cadan is pretty cool. He was part of Boudica's life when she first lived and then he became a type of immortal guardian. I don't want to get too deep into his backstory because you'll find out when you read it. But he's been dogged by guilt ever since Boudica. He's been trying to make up for his perceived sins for hundreds of years. Now, I went back and forth with liking and not liking Cadan. At first, I liked him. He was hot (duh!) and strong and he wanted to protect Boudica and then Diana. But as Diana came into her own a little more, there was a while that I didn't like him. He lied to Diana, more than once. And he did it to protect her but it made me so mad at him. I like when I can't make up my mind about a character. And I like when I change my mind about a character while reading the book. My feelings about Cadan depended on who's point of view I was seeing things from and I think I loved it!
Cadan and Diana are amazing together. But that's to be expected from a couple that has been together during more than one lifetime! As far as Sexy Time goes, it's slow to start but once they connect... Whooo Hooo! Look out! It's spicy and hot and frequent! Hel-lo! But they really work together, in part, because at first, she's the brains and he's the brawn. Then later, and this is where it gets REALLY awesome, Diana is the brains AND the brawn! But Cadan is never left behind - he's there with her and is an integral part of her journey.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this book. I think readers who already enjoy fantasy-style romances will enjoy this one but I'm not a huge fantasy romance fan and I still loved it. So you don't HAVE to love fantasy. Especially since much of this story takes place in current time and it takes place here on Earth. This book features an imperfect hero and a heroine who doesn't fully realize her full potential until later on in the book. It was a lot of fun to read and I was rooting for our main couple pretty much the whole time. I'm intrigued by what's going to come next and I'll be checking out the next book in this series!!
October 2, 2014
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth
This is the first book in a brand new The Mythean Arcana series, and it is quite extraordinary. Linsey Hall has managed to bring the past and the future together in a compelling and wonderful way. Her characters are rich and three dimensional, if they walked past you, you wouldn’t be surprised. Linsey Hill is an author to remember, be prepared to fall in love with the characters she weaves together in a magical and wondrous way. I can’t wait to read the next book in this fantastic series.
Opening Scene:
PROLOGUE
Central England, AD 60, eve of the Roman conquest of Britain
The woman he loved lay dying in his arms.
The Review:
Dreams of battle, death, and blood so much blood and pain, haunt bookish academic Diana Laughton. The dreams first only nightmares are now invading every waken moment of her days. When demons invade her quite life, she wonders if she’s finally gone mad. Or if her dreams are in fact her past life, a life she doesn’t remember, coming to meet her present.
Two millennia ago Mythean Guardian Cadan Trinovante loved and betrayed Boutica, Britain’s warrior queen. Now he’s tasked with protecting mortals whose lives affect the fate of humanity. His latest assignment is Boutica herself, reincarnated as a woman with no idea of her past life or her fated future. Cadan finds himself in a predicament once more, for he finds Diana irresistible. Their passion for one another has lasted for centuries. But with forces from her past wanting her dead, their passion and desire for each other could prove fatal, as the fate of the world, and their lives rest on them working together.
Notable Scene:
“Settle down,” he said as she nearly ended any hope of future children. He rolled her beneath him to still her struggles.
“Get off me!” Her voice broke.
“I’m here to help you.” Her struggles caused her soft thighs to part, allowing him to settle between them. He stifled a groan.
Her hair tangled around their arms as he wrestled her wrists above her head, trying to keep her neat but sharp claws away from his eyes.
Finally, he caught sight of her. Little black glasses over angry brown eyes. Sexy librarian glasses. Christ. And lush, pink lips that formed curses far more inventive than he’s expected to come from such an innocent looking face. Close up, her hair appeared to be pale red.
At first glance, she was nothing like the woman he’d known, who’d possessed a strong, raw type of beauty. Boudica was a blur in his memory now. Had been for centuries.
But this woman was very different. Delicate and soft where Boudica had been strong and fierce. Not a beautiful face, but a compelling one. One from which he couldn’t look away.
FTC Advisory: Maggie Mae Gallagher provided me with a copy of Braving Fate by Linsey Hall. Published through Bonnie Doon Press LLC. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
This is the first book in a brand new The Mythean Arcana series, and it is quite extraordinary. Linsey Hall has managed to bring the past and the future together in a compelling and wonderful way. Her characters are rich and three dimensional, if they walked past you, you wouldn’t be surprised. Linsey Hill is an author to remember, be prepared to fall in love with the characters she weaves together in a magical and wondrous way. I can’t wait to read the next book in this fantastic series.
Opening Scene:
PROLOGUE
Central England, AD 60, eve of the Roman conquest of Britain
The woman he loved lay dying in his arms.
The Review:
Dreams of battle, death, and blood so much blood and pain, haunt bookish academic Diana Laughton. The dreams first only nightmares are now invading every waken moment of her days. When demons invade her quite life, she wonders if she’s finally gone mad. Or if her dreams are in fact her past life, a life she doesn’t remember, coming to meet her present.
Two millennia ago Mythean Guardian Cadan Trinovante loved and betrayed Boutica, Britain’s warrior queen. Now he’s tasked with protecting mortals whose lives affect the fate of humanity. His latest assignment is Boutica herself, reincarnated as a woman with no idea of her past life or her fated future. Cadan finds himself in a predicament once more, for he finds Diana irresistible. Their passion for one another has lasted for centuries. But with forces from her past wanting her dead, their passion and desire for each other could prove fatal, as the fate of the world, and their lives rest on them working together.
Notable Scene:
“Settle down,” he said as she nearly ended any hope of future children. He rolled her beneath him to still her struggles.
“Get off me!” Her voice broke.
“I’m here to help you.” Her struggles caused her soft thighs to part, allowing him to settle between them. He stifled a groan.
Her hair tangled around their arms as he wrestled her wrists above her head, trying to keep her neat but sharp claws away from his eyes.
Finally, he caught sight of her. Little black glasses over angry brown eyes. Sexy librarian glasses. Christ. And lush, pink lips that formed curses far more inventive than he’s expected to come from such an innocent looking face. Close up, her hair appeared to be pale red.
At first glance, she was nothing like the woman he’d known, who’d possessed a strong, raw type of beauty. Boudica was a blur in his memory now. Had been for centuries.
But this woman was very different. Delicate and soft where Boudica had been strong and fierce. Not a beautiful face, but a compelling one. One from which he couldn’t look away.
FTC Advisory: Maggie Mae Gallagher provided me with a copy of Braving Fate by Linsey Hall. Published through Bonnie Doon Press LLC. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
January 9, 2016
Received a review copy through NetGalley.
Braving Fate is a spectacular urban fantasy novel I loved the idea of multiple Heavens and Hells. The variety of paranormal beings within the story. The action was definitely there. I enjoyed the romance and I definitely loved the idea of reincarnation with historic figures.
Diana is the main character who is reincarnated as Boudica, the warrior queen of the Celtics, after two thousand years. Diana previous to the reincarnation is a soon-to-be professor. She is very conservative and bookish. She is focused on her career. However, as she starts to really have more and more of these nightmares, which are really memories of her life as Boudica, she becomes more bolder and lively. I loved watching her became not just Diana or just Boudica, but a whole new person. She embraced her past life and blended it seamlessly with her new life. She didn't allow her past to fully control her present. I loved how she even embraced her sexuality as well.
Cadan is a Mythean Guardian, an immortal who protects mortals. He watched the love of his life, Boudica, kill herself over two thousand years ago and has been living in his own personal hell. When he is tasked with watching over Diana and learns that she is his love reincarnated he begins to war with himself. I loved watching him hold back his feelings for Boudica while becoming wrapped in Diana. I loved that he could see the difference between both women even though they were one in the same. Cadan is strong, sexy, smart and loving. He is all about protecting the one he loves and even though he screwed up two thousand years ago, he was given a second chance to make things right.
The romance was superb! I loved that Cadan was still in love with Boudica after two thousand years and that when he saw Diana he couldn't control himself at first. I love how they both had an attraction and tried to stay cool about it. Even though it was insta-love it only made sense because Diana was Boudica reincarnated. The love was there and it wasn't hard to distinguish Diana from Boudica. Those sex scenes -- by golly! That was some hot, rough sex for a mortal and an immortal. I loved it!
Paullinus, even though the enemy, was a very smart guy. At first I hated him, but after learning why he wanted Boudica's soul I began to like him. He wanted to sacrifice her, but I loved that he allowed himself to make the ultimate sacrifice for his son. Perfection.
The ending was absolutely awesome. I loved it! Linsey Hall is simply brilliant with her writing. Even though the dialect was Scottish I found it very enjoyable to read. Excited to read the next story about Warren and Esha in Soulceress.
Braving Fate is a spectacular urban fantasy novel I loved the idea of multiple Heavens and Hells. The variety of paranormal beings within the story. The action was definitely there. I enjoyed the romance and I definitely loved the idea of reincarnation with historic figures.
Diana is the main character who is reincarnated as Boudica, the warrior queen of the Celtics, after two thousand years. Diana previous to the reincarnation is a soon-to-be professor. She is very conservative and bookish. She is focused on her career. However, as she starts to really have more and more of these nightmares, which are really memories of her life as Boudica, she becomes more bolder and lively. I loved watching her became not just Diana or just Boudica, but a whole new person. She embraced her past life and blended it seamlessly with her new life. She didn't allow her past to fully control her present. I loved how she even embraced her sexuality as well.
Cadan is a Mythean Guardian, an immortal who protects mortals. He watched the love of his life, Boudica, kill herself over two thousand years ago and has been living in his own personal hell. When he is tasked with watching over Diana and learns that she is his love reincarnated he begins to war with himself. I loved watching him hold back his feelings for Boudica while becoming wrapped in Diana. I loved that he could see the difference between both women even though they were one in the same. Cadan is strong, sexy, smart and loving. He is all about protecting the one he loves and even though he screwed up two thousand years ago, he was given a second chance to make things right.
The romance was superb! I loved that Cadan was still in love with Boudica after two thousand years and that when he saw Diana he couldn't control himself at first. I love how they both had an attraction and tried to stay cool about it. Even though it was insta-love it only made sense because Diana was Boudica reincarnated. The love was there and it wasn't hard to distinguish Diana from Boudica. Those sex scenes -- by golly! That was some hot, rough sex for a mortal and an immortal. I loved it!
Paullinus, even though the enemy, was a very smart guy. At first I hated him, but after learning why he wanted Boudica's soul I began to like him. He wanted to sacrifice her, but I loved that he allowed himself to make the ultimate sacrifice for his son. Perfection.
The ending was absolutely awesome. I loved it! Linsey Hall is simply brilliant with her writing. Even though the dialect was Scottish I found it very enjoyable to read. Excited to read the next story about Warren and Esha in Soulceress.
June 13, 2015
I hate that I didn't like this book. I wanted to love it. It had tidbits from mythology, from history (I'm a huge Boudica fan), a paranormal society, academia, a romance separated by time, all things I love, but the writing and plot fell flat for me.
The main things I loved: the idea of the book and the erotic moments, which were at times surprisingly tender and very female-based. This was a welcome change from the usual aggressive male characters of that genre, but that was really all I could say that I thought worked very well.
The main issues: the two main couples were nearly interchangeable at times. Warren and Cadan were incredibly similar in tone and reserve, especially at the beginning, and Esha seemed to be a souped-up version of Diana who cursed more. I couldn't really picture any of them apart from Diana, and at times, the characters were corny (the Celtic goddess saying, "Earth rocks!" sticks out). The writing itself suffered from the same issues as the characters. The description was lacking throughout. There are woods or buildings and all are barely described and did not allow immersion. I do understand that an author could choose a "minimalistic" style, but the repeated use of adverbs and passive voice began to drive me crazy. Probably 80% of them could have been avoided with a simple rewording of the sentence, but the author chose not to edit past proof-reading (which was pretty flawless actually). This passive voice issue took me out of the story several times.
With a bit of editing, I think Braving Fate could have been a 4 star read easily, but it didn't float my boat. I really do wish I liked it.
The main things I loved: the idea of the book and the erotic moments, which were at times surprisingly tender and very female-based. This was a welcome change from the usual aggressive male characters of that genre, but that was really all I could say that I thought worked very well.
The main issues: the two main couples were nearly interchangeable at times. Warren and Cadan were incredibly similar in tone and reserve, especially at the beginning, and Esha seemed to be a souped-up version of Diana who cursed more. I couldn't really picture any of them apart from Diana, and at times, the characters were corny (the Celtic goddess saying, "Earth rocks!" sticks out). The writing itself suffered from the same issues as the characters. The description was lacking throughout. There are woods or buildings and all are barely described and did not allow immersion. I do understand that an author could choose a "minimalistic" style, but the repeated use of adverbs and passive voice began to drive me crazy. Probably 80% of them could have been avoided with a simple rewording of the sentence, but the author chose not to edit past proof-reading (which was pretty flawless actually). This passive voice issue took me out of the story several times.
With a bit of editing, I think Braving Fate could have been a 4 star read easily, but it didn't float my boat. I really do wish I liked it.
November 23, 2014
There was a nice flow, the characters were nice and although the storyline was interesting I had a hard time staying in it. I can't even really pin down why as I didn't really see any 'faults' it just didn't draw me in and hold me hostage.
I really liked one of the supporting characters and wish we would have learned a bit more about her. I AM thinking of reading the next book as it has her as one of the main characters so that is good!
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked one of the supporting characters and wish we would have learned a bit more about her. I AM thinking of reading the next book as it has her as one of the main characters so that is good!
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2014
I received Braving Fate for an honest review
I just loved this book! the characters came to life for me and just sucked me right into the story with them , I'm a big fan of Kelsey Cole, and now I'm a big fan Linsey Hall I can't wait to read more!
I just loved this book! the characters came to life for me and just sucked me right into the story with them , I'm a big fan of Kelsey Cole, and now I'm a big fan Linsey Hall I can't wait to read more!
May 18, 2022
RECENSITO DA SARAH JL PER IL BLOG DI "LIBRI E SOGNALIBRI"
Il ritorno della regina è il primo volume di una saga fantasy che intreccia miti e leggende del passato. Per l’esordio di questa serie l’autrice ha deciso di romanzare le vicende della regina Boudicca, della tribù degli Iceni dell’Inghilterra orientale, che guidò la più grande rivolta anti-romana delle tribù dell’isola nel 60/61 d.C.
Questa fusione tra miti e fantasia mi ha molto incuriosita, ma devo ammettere che è stato di una difficoltà estrema arrivare alla conclusione di questo romanzo. L’ho trovato molto lento, troppo, e un po’ confusionario. In quanto primo volume di una serie è normale che l’autrice debba dilungarsi di più per spiegare l’ambientazione e trasportare il lettore nel mondo che ha costruito, però non mi ha catturata. Probabilmente non era il suo momento e me ne dispiaccio.
Diana è una professoressa di storia con una passione per i guerrieri e le battaglie. Lei stessa afferma che fin da bambina era sempre stata propensa a giocare con le spade di legno e a guardare Xena, la principessa guerriera. Di certo non siamo di fronte a un personaggio con una personalità debole.
Ma nemmeno Cadan, millenario Mythean guardian, è da meno. Lui sa che lei è la reincarnazione di Boudica, del suo amore, e farà di tutto per proteggerla fino a quando la sua anima non si sarà risvegliata, ma sarà difficile restare impassibile davanti a questa donna, sarà difficile tenerle nascosta la verità, custodire i suoi segreti.
"Duemila anni prima, il suo amore per Boudica lo aveva deconcentrato, e lui non era stato in grado di proteggerla. Era morta. Nel freddo e nel fango. Ed una volta che lei si fosse ricordata del suo passato, lo avrebbe incolpato di nuovo di aver fallito."
La fiamma del desiderio arde più che mai in questo romanzo.
Nonostante non sia risultato un libro nelle mie corde, consiglio di dargli una possibilità.
Il ritorno della regina è il primo volume di una saga fantasy che intreccia miti e leggende del passato. Per l’esordio di questa serie l’autrice ha deciso di romanzare le vicende della regina Boudicca, della tribù degli Iceni dell’Inghilterra orientale, che guidò la più grande rivolta anti-romana delle tribù dell’isola nel 60/61 d.C.
Questa fusione tra miti e fantasia mi ha molto incuriosita, ma devo ammettere che è stato di una difficoltà estrema arrivare alla conclusione di questo romanzo. L’ho trovato molto lento, troppo, e un po’ confusionario. In quanto primo volume di una serie è normale che l’autrice debba dilungarsi di più per spiegare l’ambientazione e trasportare il lettore nel mondo che ha costruito, però non mi ha catturata. Probabilmente non era il suo momento e me ne dispiaccio.
Diana è una professoressa di storia con una passione per i guerrieri e le battaglie. Lei stessa afferma che fin da bambina era sempre stata propensa a giocare con le spade di legno e a guardare Xena, la principessa guerriera. Di certo non siamo di fronte a un personaggio con una personalità debole.
Ma nemmeno Cadan, millenario Mythean guardian, è da meno. Lui sa che lei è la reincarnazione di Boudica, del suo amore, e farà di tutto per proteggerla fino a quando la sua anima non si sarà risvegliata, ma sarà difficile restare impassibile davanti a questa donna, sarà difficile tenerle nascosta la verità, custodire i suoi segreti.
"Duemila anni prima, il suo amore per Boudica lo aveva deconcentrato, e lui non era stato in grado di proteggerla. Era morta. Nel freddo e nel fango. Ed una volta che lei si fosse ricordata del suo passato, lo avrebbe incolpato di nuovo di aver fallito."
La fiamma del desiderio arde più che mai in questo romanzo.
Nonostante non sia risultato un libro nelle mie corde, consiglio di dargli una possibilità.
March 5, 2017
This was a pretty good first book in the series, it was exciting and interesting and hooked me making me want to read the next book in the series.
The main characters are Diana and Cadan. Each know each other from a past life, but in Diana's current life she has no idea who she was in the past or why Cadan has a vested interest in her. Cadan's job is to protect the current form of the ancient goddess Boudica, who just happens to reside in Diana's body. The two are a pretty cute couple dispite their turbulent past lives, and even without the cliffhanger I would want to read more from this series.
There are not many secondary characters.
The storyline is not the most original but it is very easy to read. The pacing is pretty good and I loved the cliffhanger ending making me want to read the next book in the series so much more. I am also very glad that the (amazon unlimited) version of the book I got includes the first and the second book in the series as well as the first.
3.5 stars a good read.
The main characters are Diana and Cadan. Each know each other from a past life, but in Diana's current life she has no idea who she was in the past or why Cadan has a vested interest in her. Cadan's job is to protect the current form of the ancient goddess Boudica, who just happens to reside in Diana's body. The two are a pretty cute couple dispite their turbulent past lives, and even without the cliffhanger I would want to read more from this series.
There are not many secondary characters.
The storyline is not the most original but it is very easy to read. The pacing is pretty good and I loved the cliffhanger ending making me want to read the next book in the series so much more. I am also very glad that the (amazon unlimited) version of the book I got includes the first and the second book in the series as well as the first.
3.5 stars a good read.
January 1, 2021
I really love any book that has the celts in. I find them to be interesting people. So that was the main reason I decided to read this series. Braving Fate was a great start to this series. I’m really looking forward to reading the others. Book 2 will be Esha and Warren which I am flipping excited to read. I love Esha.
March 25, 2021
RECENSIONE COMPLETA: https://leggimangiaviaggia.blogspot.c...
VALUTAZIONE: 5 Piume su 5
Recensione Del Blog Leggi Mangia Viaggia a Cura Di L'Aura
A tutte le amanti dei romanzi fantasy a tinte erotiche, "Il Ritorno Della Regina" di Linsey Hall è la storia che fa per voi. Vediamo cosa ne pensa la mostra L'Aura, del romanzo che sta scalando le classifiche Americane.
Clicca per leggere la Recensione Completa
Buona Lettura L'Aura
VALUTAZIONE: 5 Piume su 5
Recensione Del Blog Leggi Mangia Viaggia a Cura Di L'Aura
A tutte le amanti dei romanzi fantasy a tinte erotiche, "Il Ritorno Della Regina" di Linsey Hall è la storia che fa per voi. Vediamo cosa ne pensa la mostra L'Aura, del romanzo che sta scalando le classifiche Americane.
Clicca per leggere la Recensione Completa
Buona Lettura L'Aura
April 22, 2019
A decent start to the series. I enjoyed the historical and mythological aspects, but it got a little slow at times. I will keep going with the next book because I found Warren and Esha interesting, so I would like to hear their story.
September 28, 2020
Action, drama, romance and secrets. A perfect blend of all. Awesome characters and storyline. I loved this book!
March 29, 2021
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
October 10, 2020
LOVED THIS and so glad it’s a long series!
Beautifully written, with lots of character and world building. You can’t help but fall in love with the main characters. The raw emotions will have you sitting on the edge of your seat!
Beautifully written, with lots of character and world building. You can’t help but fall in love with the main characters. The raw emotions will have you sitting on the edge of your seat!
November 5, 2014
Ok now this is something completely different and really surprised this reader. A story that's based on reincarnation and immortal warriors called Mytheans. Although the heroine Diana is American the bulk of this story takes place in Scotland at a very special and dare I say magical university. Diana has always had incredibly realistic and often frightening dreams but recently her nightmares seem to be encroaching on her reality. When she is attacked by a strange and fierce creature that's not human it's as if something long forgotten awakens inside her and she kills the monster. Left reeling and confused Diana is stunned when a tattoo appears on her wrist and as she's a keen student of history she recognises it as a landmark in Edinburgh, Scotland and feels strangely compelled to go there.
Cadan is an ancient warrior who has been granted immortality to fight the demons that would destroy life here on Earth. Once he loved a woman with all his heart but he watched as her life ebbed out of her. That woman was Boudica the queen of the Iceni and Cadan tried so hard to protect her but now lives with the guilt of knowing she felt betrayed by him. When Diana appears it's clear that she carries the soul of the long dead Celtic queen but why now has she finally been reborn? There's something happening in the Underworld and only with Diana's help can the balance be maintained but Caden will do all he can to protect his resurrected lover whether she wants it or not!
I wasn't sure at first if I would be completely hooked by this concept but the characters won me over. Diana is such a revelation as she willingly embraces this new and let's be honest strange world that she finds herself in. She's never fazed or hesitant and yes I could quite believe that she carried the soul of such a strong warrior woman. Diana constantly embraced her new role and wholeheartedly fought to get to the truth. Unfortunately the maddening Cadan tried very hard to conceal the truth from her but Diana is a very determined woman!
Cadan oh Cadan what can I say about you? You were doomed to love a woman who could not be everything that you needed in a partner. A woman with a mission that consumed her. Poor Cadan was born in a time when women were to be protected and his attitude still shows this. His desire to protect first Bouduca and now Diana sees him making terrible mistakes and I wanted to shake him but Diana is a thoroughly modern woman and more than a match for him. In fact this is a romance but it's not two people instantly going at it like rabbits no it's a fierce attraction that simmers between the couple and when they finally get horizontal they (metaphorically) set the sheets on fire!
So a great start to a completely unique series. I'm very intrigued by the supporting characters and there's a wealth of magical talents to explore. There's still a lot to find out about these Mytheans and I for one can't wait to discover more.
Cadan is an ancient warrior who has been granted immortality to fight the demons that would destroy life here on Earth. Once he loved a woman with all his heart but he watched as her life ebbed out of her. That woman was Boudica the queen of the Iceni and Cadan tried so hard to protect her but now lives with the guilt of knowing she felt betrayed by him. When Diana appears it's clear that she carries the soul of the long dead Celtic queen but why now has she finally been reborn? There's something happening in the Underworld and only with Diana's help can the balance be maintained but Caden will do all he can to protect his resurrected lover whether she wants it or not!
I wasn't sure at first if I would be completely hooked by this concept but the characters won me over. Diana is such a revelation as she willingly embraces this new and let's be honest strange world that she finds herself in. She's never fazed or hesitant and yes I could quite believe that she carried the soul of such a strong warrior woman. Diana constantly embraced her new role and wholeheartedly fought to get to the truth. Unfortunately the maddening Cadan tried very hard to conceal the truth from her but Diana is a very determined woman!
Cadan oh Cadan what can I say about you? You were doomed to love a woman who could not be everything that you needed in a partner. A woman with a mission that consumed her. Poor Cadan was born in a time when women were to be protected and his attitude still shows this. His desire to protect first Bouduca and now Diana sees him making terrible mistakes and I wanted to shake him but Diana is a thoroughly modern woman and more than a match for him. In fact this is a romance but it's not two people instantly going at it like rabbits no it's a fierce attraction that simmers between the couple and when they finally get horizontal they (metaphorically) set the sheets on fire!
So a great start to a completely unique series. I'm very intrigued by the supporting characters and there's a wealth of magical talents to explore. There's still a lot to find out about these Mytheans and I for one can't wait to discover more.
November 6, 2014
Two thousand years ago, Cadan watched his lover, Boudica, die in battle. Unable to save her, plagued by her last words, he is haunted by her death. Flash forward to present day, Cadan is an immortal, a Mythean Guardian. He is alerted that one of the ancient people is soon to be reincarnated. His job, along with other Guardians, is to assist and protect the reincarnated.
Diana is a college professor. Her job is her life and she does it well, hoping to gain a tenured status. Plagued by dreams since childhood, the dreams are now getting worse. Attacked by demons in her home, odd symbols appear on her skin shortly after the demon is killed. Assisted by her current research, she recognizes the symbol as a place in Scotland. She knows somehow the current events are tied to her visions and flees to Edinburgh in hopes of gaining some clarification. Unbeknownst to her, she is Boudica reincarnated and her dreams are actually her past.
Going in to this, I had a very brief, very fleeting knowledge of Boudica. I knew she was a Celtic warrior many, many years ago and I knew she was fierce. When Diana was first introduced, I had a hard time believing she could/would be Boudica. Diana is a scholar, mousy, bookish, anything but a warrior. Imagine my surprise when within the first several chapters, she really manages to kick some butt. I liked Cadan from the beginning. He was tough, sexy, yet hid some secrets of his own. It was quite enjoyable watching his and Diana's relationship develop and the realizations they slowly came to understand. The past and the present nicely tied in together and I found that these two were perfect for one another, regardless of their history.
Really interesting first installment of the Mythean Arcana series and I will certainly be continuing on. I love how Hall based her story from past historical events, put a little spin on them, and made this story truly unique. I definitely recommend this for lovers of paranormal romance, there were certainly some sparks to be had :)
** I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Diana is a college professor. Her job is her life and she does it well, hoping to gain a tenured status. Plagued by dreams since childhood, the dreams are now getting worse. Attacked by demons in her home, odd symbols appear on her skin shortly after the demon is killed. Assisted by her current research, she recognizes the symbol as a place in Scotland. She knows somehow the current events are tied to her visions and flees to Edinburgh in hopes of gaining some clarification. Unbeknownst to her, she is Boudica reincarnated and her dreams are actually her past.
Going in to this, I had a very brief, very fleeting knowledge of Boudica. I knew she was a Celtic warrior many, many years ago and I knew she was fierce. When Diana was first introduced, I had a hard time believing she could/would be Boudica. Diana is a scholar, mousy, bookish, anything but a warrior. Imagine my surprise when within the first several chapters, she really manages to kick some butt. I liked Cadan from the beginning. He was tough, sexy, yet hid some secrets of his own. It was quite enjoyable watching his and Diana's relationship develop and the realizations they slowly came to understand. The past and the present nicely tied in together and I found that these two were perfect for one another, regardless of their history.
Really interesting first installment of the Mythean Arcana series and I will certainly be continuing on. I love how Hall based her story from past historical events, put a little spin on them, and made this story truly unique. I definitely recommend this for lovers of paranormal romance, there were certainly some sparks to be had :)
** I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 9, 2014
Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock - 5 Fangs
A big Hell Yeah, Linsey Hall, on a story exceedingly well done. Diana is a lecturer at a university, working hard to become an assistant professor. She has spent her entire life trying to avoid conflict, "...content to stay at home reading instead of doing." Imagine her surprise when she is suddenly attacked, in her home, by strange creatures and finds something deep within her that she didn't know she was capable of. With her only clue appearing as a tattoo on her wrist, Diana is drawn to Scotland, where Cadan, a Mythean Guardian, appears out of nowhere to save her from what she finds out are demons. Diana is thrust into a university of an entirely different sort, an Immortal university, where she is introduced to a whole new world existing alongside earth. It is frustrating for Diana when no one will tell her anything except that she has been reincarnated to carry out a task. They will not tell her who she was or what she is supposed to do. Indeed, it becomes apparent to Diana that Cadan is actively trying to stop her from finding out. Hmm, not going to work. Cadan has cut off his emotions during his extremely long life, and Diana starts to rock his world. He loved her in her previous life and failed her. Is destiny going to repeat itself? With strong secondary characters and a substantial subplot, the tale woven throughout is excitingly different, as Diana finds the strength within herself to complete what she is supposed to accomplish. The passion between Diana and Cadan is sizzling. The writing is mostly clean and fluid throughout, creating an enthralling story that refused to let me go until I had finished it. Finding out that this was a debut novel, blew my mind. It's got me, almost literally, panting waiting for Warren and Esha's story. If you only read one new series this year, do pick up the Mythean Arcana series. If you love the paranormal, you won't be disappointed. Definitely fangirling on this this author, trust me, she's one to follow, outfreakingstanding.
A big Hell Yeah, Linsey Hall, on a story exceedingly well done. Diana is a lecturer at a university, working hard to become an assistant professor. She has spent her entire life trying to avoid conflict, "...content to stay at home reading instead of doing." Imagine her surprise when she is suddenly attacked, in her home, by strange creatures and finds something deep within her that she didn't know she was capable of. With her only clue appearing as a tattoo on her wrist, Diana is drawn to Scotland, where Cadan, a Mythean Guardian, appears out of nowhere to save her from what she finds out are demons. Diana is thrust into a university of an entirely different sort, an Immortal university, where she is introduced to a whole new world existing alongside earth. It is frustrating for Diana when no one will tell her anything except that she has been reincarnated to carry out a task. They will not tell her who she was or what she is supposed to do. Indeed, it becomes apparent to Diana that Cadan is actively trying to stop her from finding out. Hmm, not going to work. Cadan has cut off his emotions during his extremely long life, and Diana starts to rock his world. He loved her in her previous life and failed her. Is destiny going to repeat itself? With strong secondary characters and a substantial subplot, the tale woven throughout is excitingly different, as Diana finds the strength within herself to complete what she is supposed to accomplish. The passion between Diana and Cadan is sizzling. The writing is mostly clean and fluid throughout, creating an enthralling story that refused to let me go until I had finished it. Finding out that this was a debut novel, blew my mind. It's got me, almost literally, panting waiting for Warren and Esha's story. If you only read one new series this year, do pick up the Mythean Arcana series. If you love the paranormal, you won't be disappointed. Definitely fangirling on this this author, trust me, she's one to follow, outfreakingstanding.
October 29, 2014
I received this book free from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very strong start to a promising series. Diana Laughton is a young professor that is working towards tenure. She experiences vivid, recurring nightmares that haunt her waking thoughts. When she is attacked by a strange creature in her house and receives a mysterious tattoo, she follows the clues to Edinburgh where she meets the Mytheans.
Cadan Trinovante is a Mythean Guardian who has been tormented for two millennia by the memories of his dead lover, Boudica, a fierce and mighty queen. Learning that Boudica has been reincarnated into Diana Laughton, Cadan is tasked with protecting her on a quest. Diana must learn who her past self is on her own, but Cadan fears that with her memories will come the knowledge of his past betrayal. With his feelings for her growing by the day, how will he survive her awakening?
I felt that this book had a very nice pace. I liked all of the characters, main and secondary. The plot was solid and not too complex, and I enjoyed that the author introduced some additional romantic interests to pique our interest for future books. I am very interested in reading the next book in the series. I feel that the series is only going to get better.
This was a very strong start to a promising series. Diana Laughton is a young professor that is working towards tenure. She experiences vivid, recurring nightmares that haunt her waking thoughts. When she is attacked by a strange creature in her house and receives a mysterious tattoo, she follows the clues to Edinburgh where she meets the Mytheans.
Cadan Trinovante is a Mythean Guardian who has been tormented for two millennia by the memories of his dead lover, Boudica, a fierce and mighty queen. Learning that Boudica has been reincarnated into Diana Laughton, Cadan is tasked with protecting her on a quest. Diana must learn who her past self is on her own, but Cadan fears that with her memories will come the knowledge of his past betrayal. With his feelings for her growing by the day, how will he survive her awakening?
I felt that this book had a very nice pace. I liked all of the characters, main and secondary. The plot was solid and not too complex, and I enjoyed that the author introduced some additional romantic interests to pique our interest for future books. I am very interested in reading the next book in the series. I feel that the series is only going to get better.
November 12, 2014
***ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***
"Her last morning on earth was clear and bright. The crisp autumn air was cold on her throat. God, it was good to be alive."
First of all I'd like to say huge thanks to the writet and publisher. Thanks, you rock!!!
Linsey, your book was amazing I loved every page of it!
To tell you the truth I was not so excited to begin this book. Yep, I know paranormal, history and everythiong about - for me they just can't be mixed. So far I've read only only one author who managed to do it. But thanks to this book now I know two such authors.
The setting of the book is present Edinburgh - the city of old magic and fantastic landscapes. Everything was quite good depicted and I liked the mixture of our time and the story of Boudica.
Diana is a simple meak mouse but once she feels the blood of an ancient warrior queen, her life will never be the same. It will change and she will change. And old love will find her.
I recommend this book to all people who love paranormal romance with a mixture of love story and history.
"Her last morning on earth was clear and bright. The crisp autumn air was cold on her throat. God, it was good to be alive."
First of all I'd like to say huge thanks to the writet and publisher. Thanks, you rock!!!
Linsey, your book was amazing I loved every page of it!
To tell you the truth I was not so excited to begin this book. Yep, I know paranormal, history and everythiong about - for me they just can't be mixed. So far I've read only only one author who managed to do it. But thanks to this book now I know two such authors.
The setting of the book is present Edinburgh - the city of old magic and fantastic landscapes. Everything was quite good depicted and I liked the mixture of our time and the story of Boudica.
Diana is a simple meak mouse but once she feels the blood of an ancient warrior queen, her life will never be the same. It will change and she will change. And old love will find her.
I recommend this book to all people who love paranormal romance with a mixture of love story and history.
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