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Mated by Magic #1
Dark Vortex
Shameless Cravings. Wicked Pleasures. Can she survive a bond more powerful than love?
For the survival of his clan, Jack Fialko needs to mate with a witch of equal power before the end of the solstice. He finds the perfect woman, except for one serious flaw. She has no idea how to engage in the dangerous magical foreplay-the duel for sexual equality. The task of training her in two days seems insurmountable, especially while other warriors are trying to kidnap her.
Zoe is a warrior-healer hybrid. The trouble is, she has no clue what that means. It's all a harmless game until one night a dominant, brooding, sexy-as-sin warrior touches her and ignites a shameless craving to mate. Zoe must decide if the scorching chemistry between them is worth fighting for.
Can love and lust exist together in an exhilarating magical combination? Or will their bond combust?
For the survival of his clan, Jack Fialko needs to mate with a witch of equal power before the end of the solstice. He finds the perfect woman, except for one serious flaw. She has no idea how to engage in the dangerous magical foreplay-the duel for sexual equality. The task of training her in two days seems insurmountable, especially while other warriors are trying to kidnap her.
Zoe is a warrior-healer hybrid. The trouble is, she has no clue what that means. It's all a harmless game until one night a dominant, brooding, sexy-as-sin warrior touches her and ignites a shameless craving to mate. Zoe must decide if the scorching chemistry between them is worth fighting for.
Can love and lust exist together in an exhilarating magical combination? Or will their bond combust?
336 pages, Paperback
First published February 18, 2016
784 people are currently reading
1216 people want to read
About the author
Stella Marie Alden
70 books533 followers Amazon Best Seller Stella Marie Alden loves Zumba, yoga, watercolor painting, and all genres of romances.
Her first book, ‘How to Train Your Knight’, won Romance Writers of America coveted Molly and Show me the Sparks Contests, and placed in four others.
Truly remarkable, considering she’s only been writing for three years.
Growing up in Vermont, she loved to make up stories. Crayons fought each other over size and placement in their cardboard box and imaginary friends crowded the house. Her brother often complained. “Tell her no one’s here, Mother.".
Her career paths have varied. She’s been a librarian, a classical clarinetist wanna-be, recording studio engineer, broadcast electronics repairman, and now she architects software programs.
She lives in Bergen County, NJ with her life-long hero and their two cats. Her two girls are grown but ever supportive. You go Mom!
Her first book, ‘How to Train Your Knight’, won Romance Writers of America coveted Molly and Show me the Sparks Contests, and placed in four others.
Truly remarkable, considering she’s only been writing for three years.
Growing up in Vermont, she loved to make up stories. Crayons fought each other over size and placement in their cardboard box and imaginary friends crowded the house. Her brother often complained. “Tell her no one’s here, Mother.".
Her career paths have varied. She’s been a librarian, a classical clarinetist wanna-be, recording studio engineer, broadcast electronics repairman, and now she architects software programs.
She lives in Bergen County, NJ with her life-long hero and their two cats. Her two girls are grown but ever supportive. You go Mom!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
March 20, 2016
Zoe had no clue what she was getting into when she went to stay with her cousin Olivia. Although, her cousin claimed to have these magical powers, she didn't believe it, until she met a witch named Jack. Trying to heal Jack, she releases a power, she never believed she had and has to accept the fact, that a secret her parents had taken to the grave, was now revealed. She's a witch.
Jack is drawn to Zoe and knows immediately that she is his mate. He tries to tell Zoe, but she's resistant, she barely knows him, but cannot deny the sexual arousal she feels being near him. Will Jack get his way and let Zoe claim her?
When I saw that two author were writing a book together, it really captured my interest. I always like to see different writing styles take into play. But I have to say that these two authors wrote the book so well, I couldn't decipher the differences. I loved it.
Jack is drawn to Zoe and knows immediately that she is his mate. He tries to tell Zoe, but she's resistant, she barely knows him, but cannot deny the sexual arousal she feels being near him. Will Jack get his way and let Zoe claim her?
When I saw that two author were writing a book together, it really captured my interest. I always like to see different writing styles take into play. But I have to say that these two authors wrote the book so well, I couldn't decipher the differences. I loved it.
February 27, 2016
Finding love is like finding another side to yourself and for Zoe, that statement couldn’t be more true! Her life went from that of a normal human in search of her blood roots to a lusty, powerful witch who was the fated mate of a powerful witch clan’s leader. Witches? Until Jack, Zoe thought witches were just make believe, but her cravings for this handsome warrior witch are hot enough to melt steel.
Jack knew what was happening, their simple touch unleashed the magic of mating, sexually yearning and blossoming love, but how to convince the headstrong Zoe that she has no options and cannot avoid their magical chemistry is one uphill feat! When danger surrounds and threatens both Zoe physically and Jack’s leadership, only a true bonding will allow them to thrive, become more powerful and to survive. But wait! There’s more, Zoe is a rare hybrid, she is the very thing myths and legends are made of and could very well be the most powerful witch of all, could Jack be after the power they will share as mates? All is never fair in love and war, but sometimes the battle is worth the winners' spoils and all they have to do is survive!
I should have known I was getting one hot read, after all, this tale was created by an excellent tag team of smoldering pens, Chantel Seabrook and Stella Marie Alden. Dark Vortex is filled from cover to cover with action, tension, heat and more heat. Each character brings their being to life through their great dialogue, believable actions and reactions, including the confusing, explosive emotional pulls! Great plot, great execution and I swear I saw steam rising from my Kindle! Who knew witches could be so magically magnetic?
I received an ARC edition from Chantel Seabrook in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Mated by Magic - book 1
Publication Date: February 29, 2016
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN-10: 1523785071
ISBN-13: 978-1523785070
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 337 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Jack knew what was happening, their simple touch unleashed the magic of mating, sexually yearning and blossoming love, but how to convince the headstrong Zoe that she has no options and cannot avoid their magical chemistry is one uphill feat! When danger surrounds and threatens both Zoe physically and Jack’s leadership, only a true bonding will allow them to thrive, become more powerful and to survive. But wait! There’s more, Zoe is a rare hybrid, she is the very thing myths and legends are made of and could very well be the most powerful witch of all, could Jack be after the power they will share as mates? All is never fair in love and war, but sometimes the battle is worth the winners' spoils and all they have to do is survive!
I should have known I was getting one hot read, after all, this tale was created by an excellent tag team of smoldering pens, Chantel Seabrook and Stella Marie Alden. Dark Vortex is filled from cover to cover with action, tension, heat and more heat. Each character brings their being to life through their great dialogue, believable actions and reactions, including the confusing, explosive emotional pulls! Great plot, great execution and I swear I saw steam rising from my Kindle! Who knew witches could be so magically magnetic?
I received an ARC edition from Chantel Seabrook in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Mated by Magic - book 1
Publication Date: February 29, 2016
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN-10: 1523785071
ISBN-13: 978-1523785070
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 337 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 30, 2019
This is a well-written, wonderful paranormal romance novel with engaging, likable characters, plenty of intrigue and witchcraft, and a heart-warming, happily ever after ending.
February 23, 2016
Omg this was a hot read loved it from beginning till the end!
Very wel written and fast paced.
Not a dull moment in it!
Very wel written and fast paced.
Not a dull moment in it!
June 12, 2016
Promising, poorly executed
The premise of the book is intriguing and engrossing. But the storytelling is clunky and barren - missing details, jumping around, and confusing at times. The second half of the book has far more character development than the first half, leaving the story feeling uneven. Necessary descriptors are missing - I don't know what any of the characters look like and the settings are described minimally. The narrative reads like an outline that needs to be fleshed out, which is disappointing. It has a very entertaining and engaging plot with characters worthy of investing time and interest into. But instead of being robust and well-rounded, it falls short. With more attention, the authors could make something amazing out of this.
I appreciate getting to read this book for free, and I enjoyed it, for the most part. But it lacks the value I would expect from something I actually paid money for - my concern is that the authors' other books would be similar or worse, leading me to not be inclined to purchase any further books from them.
The premise of the book is intriguing and engrossing. But the storytelling is clunky and barren - missing details, jumping around, and confusing at times. The second half of the book has far more character development than the first half, leaving the story feeling uneven. Necessary descriptors are missing - I don't know what any of the characters look like and the settings are described minimally. The narrative reads like an outline that needs to be fleshed out, which is disappointing. It has a very entertaining and engaging plot with characters worthy of investing time and interest into. But instead of being robust and well-rounded, it falls short. With more attention, the authors could make something amazing out of this.
I appreciate getting to read this book for free, and I enjoyed it, for the most part. But it lacks the value I would expect from something I actually paid money for - my concern is that the authors' other books would be similar or worse, leading me to not be inclined to purchase any further books from them.
February 27, 2016
This was an exciting one. I read a lot of romance books and the genre is so full of cliches and stock scenes - even in paranormal romance. It's refreshing to read a story that has none of those things, a story that tackles new circumstances and subjects.
Jack is the leader of his clan of witches - but he is being threatened. The only way he can defeat his challenger is to mate with an equally powerful witch and obtain her power as well. Mate - not marry. As if pointed out many times, it's about sex, not love. And that's okay with Jack because he doesn't ever want to fall in love again.
Enter Zoe, a witch who knows nothing of her own power or the dangerous world she's been thrown into. From the moment he sees her, Jack knows she's the one. Only, she wants more than sex, more than he's willing to give. Add in the danger they face at every turn, and you've got yourself a wild ride.
I'll admit, I wasn't a huge fan of Jack. He was a little too alpha for me, but I realize that's what the story called for. There was no way his character could be different. His actions fit him. So it didn't make me like this book any less. Especially because Zoe was such a strong character. Many times, we see women in these books look week when going up against a strong man. Not so here. Zoe doesn't give in to him, even when she probably should. She has a tragic past that only makes her stronger and she knows what she wants and doesn't want. She's easy to root for.
Basically, if you have even an iota of affection for paranormal romance stories, you want to give this one a chance.
Jack is the leader of his clan of witches - but he is being threatened. The only way he can defeat his challenger is to mate with an equally powerful witch and obtain her power as well. Mate - not marry. As if pointed out many times, it's about sex, not love. And that's okay with Jack because he doesn't ever want to fall in love again.
Enter Zoe, a witch who knows nothing of her own power or the dangerous world she's been thrown into. From the moment he sees her, Jack knows she's the one. Only, she wants more than sex, more than he's willing to give. Add in the danger they face at every turn, and you've got yourself a wild ride.
I'll admit, I wasn't a huge fan of Jack. He was a little too alpha for me, but I realize that's what the story called for. There was no way his character could be different. His actions fit him. So it didn't make me like this book any less. Especially because Zoe was such a strong character. Many times, we see women in these books look week when going up against a strong man. Not so here. Zoe doesn't give in to him, even when she probably should. She has a tragic past that only makes her stronger and she knows what she wants and doesn't want. She's easy to root for.
Basically, if you have even an iota of affection for paranormal romance stories, you want to give this one a chance.
March 15, 2016
I have no idea how co-authors do it. But I've read two co-authored books in the span of a week. And they both read seamlessly. Dark Vortex is a solid read for the paranormal romance fan. I liked the elemental concept of witch and warlock powers, as well as how the authors used said powers to create heated love scenes. I didn't really understand the need for mates to fight prior to consummation, although I did appreciate the acknowledgment of the danger of wielding great magical power carelessly and inexpertly. There are many characters in this book, some of whom I would've liked to know more about. Zoe, the heroine, had a lot to deal with and her issues and concerns made a lot of sense. Jack's issues, on the other hand, weren't as evenly addressed or as understandable as Zoe's. Thus, I wish the book was a tad longer. There were some scenes that ended too quickly and would've been better if developed more. Overall, the novel is well-written with nice scenes of magic and several scenes of intimacy that I always appreciate in a romance novel.
March 9, 2016
This was a good twist on witches! Definitely steamy romance erotica. I loved the concept and the characters. Five glittery stars!
March 22, 2022
Note: This entire series has been combined into a single box set.
This didn’t work for me. I think part of the problem was the world building - when there’s magic/fantasy and so many characters I like to get to understand it all better. Unfortunately, I never really felt like I was in the story. The magic wasn’t really fleshed out and didn’t feel consistent. Thrown at objects, it was destructive, thrown at enemies it could kill/repel, thrown at someone trying to have sex with you (enemy or not) it was an aphrodisiac? Why?
Jack & Zoe are fated mates, but Jack only wants one to strengthen his power and Zoe doesn’t know she has magic. It felt like their whole relationship was miscommunication, arguing about how they weren’t compatible, and then sex. Zoe is TSTL a lot but that’s sometimes instigated by Jack not being clear. The story wasn’t really fleshed out and the end was Zoe all of a sudden perfectly understanding and mastering her powers and Jack suddenly deciding he loves her. There’s nothing to substantiate these changes.
Sorta side note: I get that parents can be really cutesy and give all their kids a name that starts with the same letter. But an author can name them whatever they want and if you’re going to name the brothers Jack, Jace, & Josh AND they’re going to appear frequently - they need to be distinguishable. Yeah, I caught Jack after a bit… but Jace and Josh added confusion when there didn’t need to be.
I sort of liked the bones of the story, but the execution will keep me from continuing the series.
Narration:
I enjoyed Simone Gayuma’s performance. I’d be interested in checking out more of her work paired with a different author.
This didn’t work for me. I think part of the problem was the world building - when there’s magic/fantasy and so many characters I like to get to understand it all better. Unfortunately, I never really felt like I was in the story. The magic wasn’t really fleshed out and didn’t feel consistent. Thrown at objects, it was destructive, thrown at enemies it could kill/repel, thrown at someone trying to have sex with you (enemy or not) it was an aphrodisiac? Why?
Jack & Zoe are fated mates, but Jack only wants one to strengthen his power and Zoe doesn’t know she has magic. It felt like their whole relationship was miscommunication, arguing about how they weren’t compatible, and then sex. Zoe is TSTL a lot but that’s sometimes instigated by Jack not being clear. The story wasn’t really fleshed out and the end was Zoe all of a sudden perfectly understanding and mastering her powers and Jack suddenly deciding he loves her. There’s nothing to substantiate these changes.
Sorta side note: I get that parents can be really cutesy and give all their kids a name that starts with the same letter. But an author can name them whatever they want and if you’re going to name the brothers Jack, Jace, & Josh AND they’re going to appear frequently - they need to be distinguishable. Yeah, I caught Jack after a bit… but Jace and Josh added confusion when there didn’t need to be.
I sort of liked the bones of the story, but the execution will keep me from continuing the series.
Narration:
I enjoyed Simone Gayuma’s performance. I’d be interested in checking out more of her work paired with a different author.
February 17, 2016
Magic, Love and Lust!
I LOVED this book!! I was so excited to read it that when I received an ARC I jumped right in and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it. My eyes were burning, the clock mocked me with each tick, telling me I was going to be exhausted tomorrow if I didn't shut off my kindle and go to sleep, but I COULDN'T do it! I had to have more and when I finally reached the last page I still wanted more. I didn't want it to be over, that's how much I loved this book.
For the survival of his clan, Jack Fialko needs to mate with a witch of equal power before the end of the solstice. Problem is, the woman he thinks is his mate has no clue who he is and has no desire to actually believe in the notion of witches and magic. That stuff isn't real, is it?
Zoe doesn't know the power she holds, in fact, the whole idea of witches, warlocks and magic seems more fairytaleish than real to her. Until, the night she's forced to save a warriors life or watch him die before her eyes. Things start to happen that she can't quite explain and by the grace of the Goddess (if she believed in such things) she managed to heal and not kill the sexy as sin man laying before her. But when he touches her for the first time, lust slams into her in a way that has her saying and doing things she normally wouldn't.
Jack not only has to convince Zoe that she's a witch packing some serious power, but that she's also his mate. A mate he wants to claim and claim now. His clan is on the verge of war, his mate has issues of her own that cause trouble out the yin-yang, and to top it off, she can be a major pain in his ass when she's not driving him into lust overdrive.
I loved the spark between these two characters and the story kept me hooked from beginning to end. I want more! Not sure if the authors are considering make this into a series, but if they did I would be one happy reader.
Thank you Chantel Seabrook and Stella Marie Alden for the chance to read this wonderful story!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
I LOVED this book!! I was so excited to read it that when I received an ARC I jumped right in and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it. My eyes were burning, the clock mocked me with each tick, telling me I was going to be exhausted tomorrow if I didn't shut off my kindle and go to sleep, but I COULDN'T do it! I had to have more and when I finally reached the last page I still wanted more. I didn't want it to be over, that's how much I loved this book.
For the survival of his clan, Jack Fialko needs to mate with a witch of equal power before the end of the solstice. Problem is, the woman he thinks is his mate has no clue who he is and has no desire to actually believe in the notion of witches and magic. That stuff isn't real, is it?
Zoe doesn't know the power she holds, in fact, the whole idea of witches, warlocks and magic seems more fairytaleish than real to her. Until, the night she's forced to save a warriors life or watch him die before her eyes. Things start to happen that she can't quite explain and by the grace of the Goddess (if she believed in such things) she managed to heal and not kill the sexy as sin man laying before her. But when he touches her for the first time, lust slams into her in a way that has her saying and doing things she normally wouldn't.
Jack not only has to convince Zoe that she's a witch packing some serious power, but that she's also his mate. A mate he wants to claim and claim now. His clan is on the verge of war, his mate has issues of her own that cause trouble out the yin-yang, and to top it off, she can be a major pain in his ass when she's not driving him into lust overdrive.
I loved the spark between these two characters and the story kept me hooked from beginning to end. I want more! Not sure if the authors are considering make this into a series, but if they did I would be one happy reader.
Thank you Chantel Seabrook and Stella Marie Alden for the chance to read this wonderful story!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
August 19, 2021
No.
This was no bueno for me. Verrrry little explanation for a LOT of shit, like new shit that would be the basis of this world and you kind of have to roll with it .
There are families of witches or clans I thought they were covens, but in this book they are called clans, the least of our problems really here. There are rules between different clans some are warriors and some are healers and they cant mix? there is like energy being thrown around and people can see it but sometimes it's sexy??? I don't know I felt it needed more explanation on the fundamentals.
There was also the randomness of the mating thing and the fact that main guy Jack says to main gal Zoe that they are mated and belong to each other like five times a chapter but each time she reacts like it is the first time she has heard it and is dumbfounded that it is the situation.
eg: Jack: I want you with me Zoe?
Zoe: ME????
Yes! He wants you for reasons that have been explained simplistically to you over and over. UGH!
So this is a series I will not be reading the others because there was nothing absolutely nothing to bring me back to this crew.
February 26, 2016
Really enjoyed this book. Very fast paced and full of adventure!
Jack and Zoe are very different ...he's a warrior who knows all about magic and she's been raised as a human who thinks magic is just stories. They come together in a fiery storm of emotions and danger and boy was I ever happy to be taken along for the ride!
Jack and Zoe are very different ...he's a warrior who knows all about magic and she's been raised as a human who thinks magic is just stories. They come together in a fiery storm of emotions and danger and boy was I ever happy to be taken along for the ride!
October 18, 2016
With a combination of witches, magic, and soul mates, “Dark Vortex” offers a lot of lore, background and world building, but it also manages to focus on the plot and characters.
Read full review in the 2016 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 3, 2016
Loved it
I loved this book lots of action with a lot of Hot WItches. Zoe was a pistol so strong and sweet.
I loved this book lots of action with a lot of Hot WItches. Zoe was a pistol so strong and sweet.
July 2, 2016
Had a strong dislike for the H & the h was a sad cliché that caused me to roll my eyes endlessly. 2 stars
Want to read
September 30, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/30/2019)! 🎁
March 3, 2016
I really enjoyed this most interesting and sexy novel of witches and warlocks. Two people, a witch who knows not of her power and ability, and a warlock meet. He is convinced instantly that she is his mate for life and tries to persuade her to submit to his desires right away. It happens but not before she learns of her life status as a warring and healing witch. There follows a series of events in which their relationship is tested and tried to the maximum before a very interesting ending that leaves me wondering if another tale of Jack Fialko and Zoe Burton is not in the offing.
Some observations: love is difficult to find and more difficult to maintain. Independence is a necessity for American people but it comes with a price in its ultimate form. The price of ultimate independence is loneliness. Possession, by both man and woman is part of loving, but can be a destructive notion. The author posits that MAN always wants to own his mate body and soul. It is probably true. But the effect of a woman being owned by a man is to establish ownership in the woman as well. These are some of the lessons of this book. And they are established in adult situations that make me emphasize this is not a book for young teens or children. Given that caveat it is a book that all who read it will undoubtedly enjoy. I certainly did and thus it easily merits my five star review. Loved it.
Some observations: love is difficult to find and more difficult to maintain. Independence is a necessity for American people but it comes with a price in its ultimate form. The price of ultimate independence is loneliness. Possession, by both man and woman is part of loving, but can be a destructive notion. The author posits that MAN always wants to own his mate body and soul. It is probably true. But the effect of a woman being owned by a man is to establish ownership in the woman as well. These are some of the lessons of this book. And they are established in adult situations that make me emphasize this is not a book for young teens or children. Given that caveat it is a book that all who read it will undoubtedly enjoy. I certainly did and thus it easily merits my five star review. Loved it.
March 8, 2016
Witches warlocks and other magical things can seem so unrealistic to someone who was brought up to not believe. That is the problem Zoe a beautiful and amazing woman has to learn to accept. Jack is a powerful warrior with strong power and is out looking for his fated mate. And he has to do it fast time is running out he has to be mated by or before the end of the solstice in order to save his clan. He found her and sparks fly but things aren't that easy first she is quick tempered with a smart mouth and most importantly she doesn't believe in magic. But the jokes on her for she might not but inside herself she is a very powerful witch. Now he has to make her believe it and it them. Will he succeed? Will he save his clan?
Zoe is a sexy self sufficient woman. She doesn't believe in the unseen or magical. One night she is made to save a life or watch him die before her eyes.. That's when things get weird and hot because as soon as he touches her she can't explain the forceable attraction to this man.. Now he is telling her crazy things including that she is meant to be his, what is she to do or believe. Something inside her says he tells the truth but her mind refuses to accept. Will she listen and do what is right? And the process find herself? Read and find out.. I was given this magical story in exchange for an honest review..
Zoe is a sexy self sufficient woman. She doesn't believe in the unseen or magical. One night she is made to save a life or watch him die before her eyes.. That's when things get weird and hot because as soon as he touches her she can't explain the forceable attraction to this man.. Now he is telling her crazy things including that she is meant to be his, what is she to do or believe. Something inside her says he tells the truth but her mind refuses to accept. Will she listen and do what is right? And the process find herself? Read and find out.. I was given this magical story in exchange for an honest review..
March 20, 2016
See Spot. He is a dog. Run, Spot, run!
While I didn't expect perfection, I did hope that the writing would improve and become more fluid. It didn't. I stopped reading after the first few pages, since I kept reading a lot of 'she did this' or 'they did that'...it was just too flat.
An excerpt from the PNR Lovers site:
Power coiled through him. Roughly, he hauled her to the bed. Her back met the mattress and he positioned himself above her. He spread her thighs wider with his knees. She curled her hands over his broad shoulders, feeling the muscles clench and tighten under her palms.
The fact that it took two people to write this is disappointing; one would think that one of the two would have focused on the editing, i.e. sentence structures, flow, etc. Sometimes, two isn't better than one.
While I didn't expect perfection, I did hope that the writing would improve and become more fluid. It didn't. I stopped reading after the first few pages, since I kept reading a lot of 'she did this' or 'they did that'...it was just too flat.
An excerpt from the PNR Lovers site:
Power coiled through him. Roughly, he hauled her to the bed. Her back met the mattress and he positioned himself above her. He spread her thighs wider with his knees. She curled her hands over his broad shoulders, feeling the muscles clench and tighten under her palms.
The fact that it took two people to write this is disappointing; one would think that one of the two would have focused on the editing, i.e. sentence structures, flow, etc. Sometimes, two isn't better than one.
June 12, 2018
I received an ARC edition of this book from the author.
This volume contains 3 books, one for each of the Fialko brothers.
Dark Vortex: This is Jack and Zoe's book (the one mentioned in the blurb). Zoe has no clue about her magical heritage, while Jack is the leader of his clan. The solstice mating idea is interesting, though I'm not sure I could get a real handle on the rules. This story also had a lot of jumps where going from one chapter to the next felt jarring (I actually thought I was missing a section at times). I can't say as though I particularly liked Jack and Zoe together, they have so many communication issues (I hate it when a lack of communication is the driving force for conflict between the MCs) and honestly I never felt that they matched very well. He comes across as too domineering (I really like Alpha/take charge males) and she alternated between a doormat and too stubborn.
Dark Tremor: This is Jace and Terra's book. I liked their story okay, probably my favorite of the three stories. But even it was a bit rough at times. I think there was a better connection between the MCs in this book. There are a lot of secrets, but given their backgrounds I could buy into a bit more. I can't say as though I was happy about the lead up to Josh's book be such a key point in this story (if anything it didn't really make me look forward to the last story).
Dark Tide: After what happened to Josh in Jace's story (trying not to be too spoilery here) I can't say as though I was looking forward to this story. The story as a whole is okay, but I almost felt like there was too much going on for the length of the story.
Overall, the premise for the stories is good, but I think it needed a bit more world-building to really come across as amazing. Also, I felt like there were times where the flow or consistency between the three stories just didn't quite work for me.
This volume contains 3 books, one for each of the Fialko brothers.
Dark Vortex: This is Jack and Zoe's book (the one mentioned in the blurb). Zoe has no clue about her magical heritage, while Jack is the leader of his clan. The solstice mating idea is interesting, though I'm not sure I could get a real handle on the rules. This story also had a lot of jumps where going from one chapter to the next felt jarring (I actually thought I was missing a section at times). I can't say as though I particularly liked Jack and Zoe together, they have so many communication issues (I hate it when a lack of communication is the driving force for conflict between the MCs) and honestly I never felt that they matched very well. He comes across as too domineering (I really like Alpha/take charge males) and she alternated between a doormat and too stubborn.
Dark Tremor: This is Jace and Terra's book. I liked their story okay, probably my favorite of the three stories. But even it was a bit rough at times. I think there was a better connection between the MCs in this book. There are a lot of secrets, but given their backgrounds I could buy into a bit more. I can't say as though I was happy about the lead up to Josh's book be such a key point in this story (if anything it didn't really make me look forward to the last story).
Dark Tide: After what happened to Josh in Jace's story (trying not to be too spoilery here) I can't say as though I was looking forward to this story. The story as a whole is okay, but I almost felt like there was too much going on for the length of the story.
Overall, the premise for the stories is good, but I think it needed a bit more world-building to really come across as amazing. Also, I felt like there were times where the flow or consistency between the three stories just didn't quite work for me.
March 10, 2016
I read a lot, usually at least one carefully screened book a day. In spite of that, it's not often I find one by a new author that is as good as this writing duo. It is not the typical cookie cutter formula, the storyline flows beautifully, flashbacks are mercifully short, the plot and characters are well developed, it is a standalone with an HEA and, while not perfect, it kept me glued to my reader and wanting much more. I have an affinity for stories featuring characters with elemental powers and this book has a different twist on elemental magic, mixed in with witches and warlocks. I loved it and can't wait to read more by these talented authors.
When Jack Fialco, head of the Iesco clan of "warring" witches, is brought into the healer's cottage, he is near death. In the absence of the healer, her cousin, adopted human Zoe Burton, breaks through a binding curse to heal him. Zoe has no idea she is a hybrid witch. She is untrained, powerful and therefore dangerous. But when Jack regains consciousness, he finds an unconscious woman who unleashed a vortex to heal him. She doesn't read as a healer, however, and when she awakens he finds she has no knowledge of her natural family or of her powers. Jack is wary, but he is also getting another very important reading from her. Zoe is his solstice mate, a perfect match for him, and therefore a mating between them would double their powers. But without training, in an attempted mating, Zoe's uncontrolled power could kill them both.
This is a KU Library read.
When Jack Fialco, head of the Iesco clan of "warring" witches, is brought into the healer's cottage, he is near death. In the absence of the healer, her cousin, adopted human Zoe Burton, breaks through a binding curse to heal him. Zoe has no idea she is a hybrid witch. She is untrained, powerful and therefore dangerous. But when Jack regains consciousness, he finds an unconscious woman who unleashed a vortex to heal him. She doesn't read as a healer, however, and when she awakens he finds she has no knowledge of her natural family or of her powers. Jack is wary, but he is also getting another very important reading from her. Zoe is his solstice mate, a perfect match for him, and therefore a mating between them would double their powers. But without training, in an attempted mating, Zoe's uncontrolled power could kill them both.
This is a KU Library read.
July 3, 2016
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
In this we meet Zoe and Jack Fialko. Zoe is a woman without a past. She was adopted as a child after her step-father was found to be touching her inappropriately. She has flashbacks and problems that have sent her to a therapist to help her deal with her issues. She found in her adoptive parents home after they died a letter from her birth mother that helped her start to find her family. The things is there are parts of herself that she knows nothing about so when she meets Jack he awakens something in her. Can she trust Jack and what he is awakening within her or will he just be one more person to hurt her?
Jack didn't think he would ever meet his mate but the instant Zoe touches him he knows there is something special bout her. The thing is how does he get his mate without scaring her off. It seems the more he tries to get her the more she pulls away. The thing is now that he has found her he can't let anything happen to her and the people after don't feel the same way. Can he protect his mate as well as get her to accept all of him?
This book will have you on the edge of your seat from the first word to the very end. There are many twists and turns in this book that I want to tell you all about but I don't want to ruin any of the surprises for any of the readers. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone.
In this we meet Zoe and Jack Fialko. Zoe is a woman without a past. She was adopted as a child after her step-father was found to be touching her inappropriately. She has flashbacks and problems that have sent her to a therapist to help her deal with her issues. She found in her adoptive parents home after they died a letter from her birth mother that helped her start to find her family. The things is there are parts of herself that she knows nothing about so when she meets Jack he awakens something in her. Can she trust Jack and what he is awakening within her or will he just be one more person to hurt her?
Jack didn't think he would ever meet his mate but the instant Zoe touches him he knows there is something special bout her. The thing is how does he get his mate without scaring her off. It seems the more he tries to get her the more she pulls away. The thing is now that he has found her he can't let anything happen to her and the people after don't feel the same way. Can he protect his mate as well as get her to accept all of him?
This book will have you on the edge of your seat from the first word to the very end. There are many twists and turns in this book that I want to tell you all about but I don't want to ruin any of the surprises for any of the readers. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone.
June 2, 2016
TITLE: Dark Vortx
SERIES: Mated by Magic
AUTHOR: Stella Marie Alden & Chantel Seabrook
GENRE: Paranormal Romance
RELEASE DATE: February 29, 2016
MY RATING: 5 stars
Wow! I am not a huge fan of paranormal, I have to be in a certain mood, but man did I love this book!
The book starts off right in the middle of things and is very fast paced, and it builds up till you get the whole picture, and there were many times I was like "OH!!! That's why-"
The sex scenes were HOT HOT HOT! I loved the sexual energy.
Zoe, our heroine, I loved her! She was a strong female lead- and we all know by this time that I have issues with the 3 W's (weak, wishy washy females) And Jack, he has definitely made it to my book boyfriend list!
This was a totally solid read and I will be diving into book 2 this evening :)
June 7, 2016
Zoe has no idea who or what she is when she cures the big beautiful hunk of a warring witch and head of his clan Jack but she will soon find out. Jack has no idea who Zoe is but when he sees her power all he knows is he has to have her. As it turns out Jack isn't the only one. This all happens in the three chapters. Lots of excitement and sexual tension especially when Jack realizes Zoe knows nothing about who she is and the rules of any kind. Zoe is a pistol and Jack is stubborn the combination is definitely combustible.
This is a collaboration between 2 writers and while there are some rough spots still it is an enjoyable read. The POV switches back and forth between Zoe and Jack sometimes going to the past to explain the present. Strong characters, intrigue, action, fun, laughter, passion and "fighting" during the mating make for an interesting story not to mention Zoe finding out who she is. While Zoes issues are explored Jacks are kind of glossed over as the book goes along but worth every page turn
This is a collaboration between 2 writers and while there are some rough spots still it is an enjoyable read. The POV switches back and forth between Zoe and Jack sometimes going to the past to explain the present. Strong characters, intrigue, action, fun, laughter, passion and "fighting" during the mating make for an interesting story not to mention Zoe finding out who she is. While Zoes issues are explored Jacks are kind of glossed over as the book goes along but worth every page turn
March 9, 2016
Loved it!
This was a well written paranormal romance between a male warrior witch name Jack Fialko and a warrior-healer hybrid name Zoe who was adopted by humans and had no idea of her lineage. Sparks fly when they meet one solstice night when Jack is hurt and Zoe somehow heals him with powers she had no idea she had. He soon realizes her powers are strong and must mate with her in order to save his clan.Zoe can't deny the chemistry between Jack and her but she is untrained in magic.She must be learn to control her magic before the solstice is over in order to help Jack and save herself from other warriors who want to kidnap her for her powers.
I enjoyed this book.The chemistry between Jack and Zoe was steamy.I just wish it was a little longer.I give it 5 stars.
This was a well written paranormal romance between a male warrior witch name Jack Fialko and a warrior-healer hybrid name Zoe who was adopted by humans and had no idea of her lineage. Sparks fly when they meet one solstice night when Jack is hurt and Zoe somehow heals him with powers she had no idea she had. He soon realizes her powers are strong and must mate with her in order to save his clan.Zoe can't deny the chemistry between Jack and her but she is untrained in magic.She must be learn to control her magic before the solstice is over in order to help Jack and save herself from other warriors who want to kidnap her for her powers.
I enjoyed this book.The chemistry between Jack and Zoe was steamy.I just wish it was a little longer.I give it 5 stars.
June 18, 2016
This was a very interesting twist on finding mates. Only during the solstice do the witches (males and females) search for the mate that will match them in magical strength. Unfortunately for Zoe she didn't even know what she was or even about witches. So when she does meet her mate she has no idea what the attraction is she has for him or the specific mating rituals. With a dark past and no luck with love as well, how can she trust this odd mating?
Romance, magic and danger are abound is the book. Going to start reading the next book right away.
Received book from author for an honest review.
Romance, magic and danger are abound is the book. Going to start reading the next book right away.
Received book from author for an honest review.
March 15, 2016
I hate giving bad reviews, but with all the five stars this book received, I felt that it needed to be said.
For me, Dark Vortex had too much going on without a lot of explanation. If I had more details, I would have probably enjoyed it more. The premise was interesting. Moreover, there would be a BAM moment and something big happened, and then it was rushing to the next scene without letting you really process what you just read. It was too rushed. At 60%, I was rolling my eyes, just waiting for it to be over. Almost didn't finish.
For me, Dark Vortex had too much going on without a lot of explanation. If I had more details, I would have probably enjoyed it more. The premise was interesting. Moreover, there would be a BAM moment and something big happened, and then it was rushing to the next scene without letting you really process what you just read. It was too rushed. At 60%, I was rolling my eyes, just waiting for it to be over. Almost didn't finish.
March 15, 2016
I am a big fan of Chantel Seabrook and was not disappointed AT ALL while reading this collaboration with Stella Marie Alden. The originality of this story is one of the biggest draws for me. Vortex? Who has heard of that before? I still want to know more about them. And the steamy scenes - a definite plus.
Love the power play.
Love the pace.
Love the effort these two Authors have put into building this world for us.
Love the power play.
Love the pace.
Love the effort these two Authors have put into building this world for us.
March 18, 2016
This book was amazing! I didn't realize I was ready to read a paranormal romance book, but I had a hard time putting this down. The story line was very well written and kept me wondering what was going to happen next. The characters were deep and real and completely believable. The story is a stand alone, but I can see it as a series, telling each of the clan member's stories of true love.
I highly recommend this to anyone who likes to read paranormal romance.
I highly recommend this to anyone who likes to read paranormal romance.
October 17, 2016
2.5 Stars
Ok so unfortunately I think I'm in the minority with this book because I thought it was a bit cheesy and eye rolling.
There was a hell of a lot thrown into this story and at times was OTT. Things that were happening were resolved far too quickly and boom it was onto the next big thing.
I loved the blurb and it held so much promise it just didn't quite get there for me.
Ok so unfortunately I think I'm in the minority with this book because I thought it was a bit cheesy and eye rolling.
There was a hell of a lot thrown into this story and at times was OTT. Things that were happening were resolved far too quickly and boom it was onto the next big thing.
I loved the blurb and it held so much promise it just didn't quite get there for me.
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