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Toil & Trouble #5
Déjà Vu & Gin
Fair is foul and foul is fair.
Betrayed by her father.
Abandoned by her mother.
Left at the altar by the prince of her dreams.
Anastasia Gosse's past is more tangled than most. Everything she's been through has taught this witch one valuable lesson. Trust no one. All that Ana's ever wanted was to have her family back together and safe. She'd do anything to make that happen.
Even blackmail an assassin of the realm who drives her crazy in more ways than one.
Tyr Kanerva thinks he's seen it all, the worst of both the human and fairytale worlds. This assassin thinks he's too jaded for surprises. Enter one clever, calculating witch who tricks Tyr into a contract that just might be the death of him. He should hate her, but instead he finds himself wondering what the witch is hiding under all that ice?
When Ana comes up with a sinful solution to satisfy their mutual curiosity, neither of them are prepared for where their liaison will led.
Because the FTC world is not a kind one, and between gods, goddesses and a Fire Prince who will stop at nothing to have Ana back at his side, a happily ever after for these two may be just another impossible fairytale....
Betrayed by her father.
Abandoned by her mother.
Left at the altar by the prince of her dreams.
Anastasia Gosse's past is more tangled than most. Everything she's been through has taught this witch one valuable lesson. Trust no one. All that Ana's ever wanted was to have her family back together and safe. She'd do anything to make that happen.
Even blackmail an assassin of the realm who drives her crazy in more ways than one.
Tyr Kanerva thinks he's seen it all, the worst of both the human and fairytale worlds. This assassin thinks he's too jaded for surprises. Enter one clever, calculating witch who tricks Tyr into a contract that just might be the death of him. He should hate her, but instead he finds himself wondering what the witch is hiding under all that ice?
When Ana comes up with a sinful solution to satisfy their mutual curiosity, neither of them are prepared for where their liaison will led.
Because the FTC world is not a kind one, and between gods, goddesses and a Fire Prince who will stop at nothing to have Ana back at his side, a happily ever after for these two may be just another impossible fairytale....
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 2017
27 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Heather R. Blair
22 books219 followersHeather R. Blair wrote her first book in the first grade and hasn't stopped since. Back then it was all about horses, now it's pretty much the dark, sexy and shivery.
She lives in the frozen north of Minnesota, near that big gorgeous lake called Superior and enjoys hiking when the snow melts. She also does murals, rides herd on four monsters(otherwise known as children), is slightly obsessed with Martin Freeman, British television and things that go bump in the night.
She loves reading,(duh!)and interacting with other bibliophiles and authors. Feel free to bug her at will and sign up for her newsletter to get shiny new promos, free stuff and MORE!
https://linktr.ee/heatherrblairauthor
Check out works in progress and upcoming releases on pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherr4300/
She lives in the frozen north of Minnesota, near that big gorgeous lake called Superior and enjoys hiking when the snow melts. She also does murals, rides herd on four monsters(otherwise known as children), is slightly obsessed with Martin Freeman, British television and things that go bump in the night.
She loves reading,(duh!)and interacting with other bibliophiles and authors. Feel free to bug her at will and sign up for her newsletter to get shiny new promos, free stuff and MORE!
https://linktr.ee/heatherrblairauthor
Check out works in progress and upcoming releases on pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherr4300/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 30, 2017
3.5 ALMOST DIDN'T STARS
ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR MY HONEST REVIEW
I will start this review by saying that up until this book, this series has been a complete 5 ++ STARS read for me.
I was honestly counting down the days for each book release!
This was literally me...
So when I started this book, I had some pretty high expectations.
I was expecting to be completely overwhelmed with feelings, and after those first few chapters, I thought I had struck gold!
Sadly, the rest of the book wasn't that intense and I was left feeling very disconnected from the hero and the heroine.
I'm not blaming anyone here...
I wasn't able to relate with either of characters.
To me, they both seemed very cold and self serving.
Even when the heroine was "betrayed" by the hero, she was unable to even summon one tear from me and that my friends is NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE.
I honestly almost always cry at EVERYTHING!
However, I found it extremely hard to relate to them as individuals and even less so as a couple.
They were both so distant.
I understood why but I still felt that they should have been able to let their guards down with each other, maybe?
Anyways, I still enjoyed parts of this book that related to the other characters and I'm really looking forward to the next book.
Just this book or storyline wasn't a hit for me personally.
This is just how I saw it.
Please enjoy and as always... Happy reading! 💋
ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR MY HONEST REVIEW
I will start this review by saying that up until this book, this series has been a complete 5 ++ STARS read for me.
I was honestly counting down the days for each book release!
This was literally me...
So when I started this book, I had some pretty high expectations.
I was expecting to be completely overwhelmed with feelings, and after those first few chapters, I thought I had struck gold!
Sadly, the rest of the book wasn't that intense and I was left feeling very disconnected from the hero and the heroine.
I'm not blaming anyone here...
I wasn't able to relate with either of characters.
To me, they both seemed very cold and self serving.
Even when the heroine was "betrayed" by the hero, she was unable to even summon one tear from me and that my friends is NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE.
I honestly almost always cry at EVERYTHING!
However, I found it extremely hard to relate to them as individuals and even less so as a couple.
They were both so distant.
I understood why but I still felt that they should have been able to let their guards down with each other, maybe?
Anyways, I still enjoyed parts of this book that related to the other characters and I'm really looking forward to the next book.
Just this book or storyline wasn't a hit for me personally.
This is just how I saw it.
Please enjoy and as always... Happy reading! 💋
June 23, 2017
This book seals Heather R Blair's fate. I'm officially in love with her brain, and she's never getting rid of me.
I'm going to start this review with a confession. I was worried. Why do you ask? Well, it's because I've been waiting through four books for Tyr story. I fell in love with this assassin of the realm in book one, and I was more than apprehensive that he wouldn't live up to my expectations.
I shouldn't have worried.
Tyr was everything I was hoping for and more. I mean, come on, he says things like this...
"When it comes to this 'arrangement' of ours, get one thing straight right now. I'm no fucking gentleman. I'm going to smack your ass. I'm going to pull your hair." I lean in close. "I'm going to bite." Her eyes go wide as saucers, her mouth a tiny O. "I won't ask for what I want nicely. I'm going to demand, and you're going to obey."
And Tyr and Ana together, they're just magical. We get a whole lot of this ...
I give her what she wants, what we both want. It's fast and hard and brutal and perfect.
Tempered with a little of this...
When we come together this time, it's different. It's sweet and soft and achingly slow, as if we're both trying to draw out every minute, every second and every heartbeat.
*sigh*
With Heather R Blair's wicked sense of humor and beautifully intriguing storytelling, this book draws you in and never lets you go.
I'm going to start this review with a confession. I was worried. Why do you ask? Well, it's because I've been waiting through four books for Tyr story. I fell in love with this assassin of the realm in book one, and I was more than apprehensive that he wouldn't live up to my expectations.
I shouldn't have worried.
Tyr was everything I was hoping for and more. I mean, come on, he says things like this...
"When it comes to this 'arrangement' of ours, get one thing straight right now. I'm no fucking gentleman. I'm going to smack your ass. I'm going to pull your hair." I lean in close. "I'm going to bite." Her eyes go wide as saucers, her mouth a tiny O. "I won't ask for what I want nicely. I'm going to demand, and you're going to obey."
And Tyr and Ana together, they're just magical. We get a whole lot of this ...
I give her what she wants, what we both want. It's fast and hard and brutal and perfect.
Tempered with a little of this...
When we come together this time, it's different. It's sweet and soft and achingly slow, as if we're both trying to draw out every minute, every second and every heartbeat.
*sigh*
With Heather R Blair's wicked sense of humor and beautifully intriguing storytelling, this book draws you in and never lets you go.
October 30, 2018
"CHAOS IS THE MASTER ALL MUST BOW TO IN THE END."
Continuation Of The Witches Spawns Sisters Four: Winter
Ana Our Heroine The Witch Who Hired The Assassin To Protect Her Family
TyR Our Hero The Assassin Assigned To The FAIRY TALE CREATURES
Cannot Say Much Without Giving It Away (Go Get Sixpence & Whiskey And Start Reading)
I received this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
Continuation Of The Witches Spawns Sisters Four: Winter
Ana Our Heroine The Witch Who Hired The Assassin To Protect Her Family
TyR Our Hero The Assassin Assigned To The FAIRY TALE CREATURES
Cannot Say Much Without Giving It Away (Go Get Sixpence & Whiskey And Start Reading)
I received this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
June 29, 2017
4.5 Stars!
What an incredible addition to the Toil & Trouble series! This was everything I had hoped it to be and so much more. I only thought I knew where this story was headed. Oh man! This author is wicked good. After having read the previous books in this series, I suspected I might have figured out a method to her madness. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Going into this story we are actually in the middle of Ana’s sister Seph’s troubles. While all that craziness was going on we were never given a full view of what was taking place with Ana or Tyr. This is their story and it is everything you could ever want when reading about witches, magic, assassins, shifters, gods and more gods.
Ana is the definition of protection when it comes to her family. Due to the loss of them so early in her life she has shielded herself behind an icy veneer. She is strong and wily, and more than I anticipated.
Tyr is an assassin for the realm. Pretty much the only rule he follows is the only one he is required to follow: Honor the terms of the contract. Unfortunately, Ana, the icy witch, has blackmailed him into a contract that contradicts another contract. He’s kinda in a tight spot.
While this one doesn’t have all the twisty turns and crazy detours the previous books had, I was constantly on edge waiting for the other shoe to drop for Ana and Tyr. And it definitely does.
I recommend going into this book – the series! – with as little info as you can. The less you know the greater the ride. While this could possibly be read as a standalone, it would be better to read it in order. Told in dual points of view, it is completely safe in my opinion and does not present any triggers. I will give you a warning about the prologue…tissues will most likely be needed.
ARC generously given by the author but I purchased it as well because it's just that good!
Amazon
July 7, 2019
2.5*
The previous book ended on a huge cliffhanger. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened but...
The first 80% of this book is the previous books just from Tyr and Ana’s POV. Now while I’m a huge fan of multiple POV I didn’t appreciate having to wait until 80% into this book to just pick up from where the previous one left off.
I found myself frustrated and skimming. Yes there’s interesting bits here. I loved Tyr and his past made me understand him better. But ultimately I don’t cope well with cliffhangers. And to finish one book with one and make me wait so long didn’t work for me.
Now I’m clearly in the minority here. So I’m putting it down to me.
The previous book ended on a huge cliffhanger. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened but...
The first 80% of this book is the previous books just from Tyr and Ana’s POV. Now while I’m a huge fan of multiple POV I didn’t appreciate having to wait until 80% into this book to just pick up from where the previous one left off.
I found myself frustrated and skimming. Yes there’s interesting bits here. I loved Tyr and his past made me understand him better. But ultimately I don’t cope well with cliffhangers. And to finish one book with one and make me wait so long didn’t work for me.
Now I’m clearly in the minority here. So I’m putting it down to me.
March 15, 2019
4 1/2 to 5 stars
"Take a chance, assassin. Reach for the stars. What’s the worst that can happen?"
I really enjoyed this journey as I'm sure you can tell by my rating. And I suspect that a number of you who want to read this (or are curious about whether to dive in or not) may be just a wee bit disappointed (but also intrigued) when I tell you that the less you know about the ins and outs of this particular tale, the better (and possibly more exciting) your reading experience will be.
“If you’re not interested, you could just say no. There is no need to be such an asshole about it.” She sniffs before yanking her arm free and heading for the hallway. “Take your spells and see yourself out.”
I take one determined step toward the door, toward sanity, but it’s no good. Silently, I spin on my heel. She doesn’t hear me coming until I’m already on top of her, swinging her up against the wall hard enough to tumble several small figurines off the mantelpiece next to us. Her eyes go wide, her lips parting on a gasp.
I cover her mouth with mine before she can get out a single word. Christ. So sweet.
(Yeah, okay, I kind of had a feeling that wasn't going to dissuade you...)
A quick caveat before we begin...
Her lips are warm and trembling, then greedy and hot. She’s not pushing me away now, but yanking me closer. I laugh into her mouth as she goes to her toes, her fingers sliding up to tangle in my hair.
I knew Anastasia would burn hot under all that ice, and I wasn’t wrong. Kissing her is like kissing the stars, white, fierce and blinding.
Utterly beyond my reach.
'Of Ice and Death' or Meet the Heroine/Hero...
In this tale, we delve into the story of Anastasia Gosse (sister of Persephone and Jett), a powerful and determined witch whose icy, beautiful, and often bossy demeanor hides a huge heart, understandable fear and anger, a strong desire to protect her family from all that threatens them, and a willingness to do anything in order to achieve that goal.
Even mess with the likes of Tyr Kanerva.
Which is never a good idea.
I’m so stunned, I just stare, forgetting to be afraid. “How did you get up here?” My bedroom is up a sheer wall, and unlike Seph’s room, there is no trellis.
He stands at the foot of my bed, glowering at me. “You may recall what I do for a living?”
I’ve obviously insulted his prowess. We stare at each other for a long minute. “What are you doing here?”
“I heard you were dying.” His voice is clipped. “I came to see if my conflict of interest had resolved itself.”
I laugh, wincing slightly where my flesh is still knitting together.
Tyr is a man with a devastating past, a burning, lifelong desire for vengeance, and the cojones to take on and tangle with the gods. And, oh yeah, he kills for a living.
So when Ana forces Tyr to sign a contract in blood that totally conflicts with another contract he’s undertaken (from someone incredibly dangerous), he’s not a happy assassin. This situation will jeopardize both his livelihood and his life, and more importantly (priorities, schmiorities), his opportunity for revenge, especially if he doesn’t play his cards just right. But one cool, irritating, clever, and sexy witch keeps shuffling his deck in more ways than one...
Suffice it to say, his life would be so much simpler if someone (or several someone's) would just die. That’s how things have been dealt with and resolved in the past, and that usually works out quite nicely for him. Unfortunately, the ‘ice queen’ who has somehow managed to manipulate and trap him, also intrigues and attracts him far more than he’s comfortable with, thus complicating both their lives in ways unexpected…
More details, a dash of trickery, and further thoughts...
This book is written in dual first person POV and broken down into two parts. The first half takes place during the events of the first three books, giving the reader an alternate storyline regarding what Ana and Tyr were up to during that time. The second half takes place after those huge events have gone down, and delves into the mysteries, secrets, and challenges that still remain for Ana and Tyr...
"Gods, woman, a little trust would be nice.”
“This is not a relationship built on trust.” As soon as I say the words, I want to yank them back, but it’s too late. The grin fades from his face as the darkness floods back in. Gods, what have I done? “Tyr. I didn’t mean that. Not exactly. I—”
“No, you’re perfectly right.” His tone is aiming for careless but doesn’t quite get there. “Trusting an assassin of the realm would be ridiculous.”
And it would be. It really, really would be . . .
But suddenly I wish I could. I wish he’d let me.
Is there more to the story? Sure. A whole lot more.
Witches. Assassins. Sex. Romance. Fire. Devastation. Heartbreak. Family. Magic. Moonstones. Gods. Goddesses. Death. Obsession. Royalty. Betrayal. Lies. Sacrifice.
(And that pretty much tells you everything and nothing because, yeah, I'm tricky like that. And Ms. Blair has me totally beat in that department as she gleefully weaves her webs and casts her word spells full of magic and mystery. I love how her mind works and the way she writes...)
True spoilers ahead... open at your own risk...
Now, in truth, I would have liked to have had
I also want to mention that the way the
The author played with definite shades of light and dark here
Wrapping it up...
It was great to be transported back to a world that I now know, enjoy, and look forward to. It felt like visiting old friends while being given yet another new and fascinating perspective on their lives and marveling at how each story honors all the interweaving connections.
The characters in Ms.Blair's world aren’t just window dressing on the side, called to the stage only as props for Persephone and Jack's tale (as the prophecy makes clear). They’ve got their own winding roads and complicated paths to navigate, and are doing what they can to survive and hopefully thrive, while also dealing with their own wounds and finding their way through all the craziness that life brings.
Many complex and interesting beings are required to play their part in potentially changing the course of the future by looking death square in the eye, challenging the winds of fate, and going up against fairy tale Karma itself (that bitch.).
Ms. Blair could tell me a story about any of these characters and she’d capture my imagination and interest because they all matter. I love that. This is a fully realized world with all its rules, blessings and challenges, and so much magic. Both the fairy tale kind and the kind the characters create by virtue of who they are, the ways they interact, and how they love.
“How would you know what love is, assassin?” he sneers.
“I know what it’s not. It’s not carving out a piece of her soul to save your own. It’s about giving up what you treasure most to save her.”
*** A copy of this book was received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Links to my other reviews for this series:
Sixpence & Whiskey (Toil and Trouble, Book #1)
Blackbirds & Bourbon (Toil and Trouble, Book #2)
Roses & Rye (Toil and Trouble, Book #3)
Threescore & Tequila (Toil and Trouble, Book #4)
"Take a chance, assassin. Reach for the stars. What’s the worst that can happen?"
I really enjoyed this journey as I'm sure you can tell by my rating. And I suspect that a number of you who want to read this (or are curious about whether to dive in or not) may be just a wee bit disappointed (but also intrigued) when I tell you that the less you know about the ins and outs of this particular tale, the better (and possibly more exciting) your reading experience will be.
“If you’re not interested, you could just say no. There is no need to be such an asshole about it.” She sniffs before yanking her arm free and heading for the hallway. “Take your spells and see yourself out.”
I take one determined step toward the door, toward sanity, but it’s no good. Silently, I spin on my heel. She doesn’t hear me coming until I’m already on top of her, swinging her up against the wall hard enough to tumble several small figurines off the mantelpiece next to us. Her eyes go wide, her lips parting on a gasp.
I cover her mouth with mine before she can get out a single word. Christ. So sweet.
(Yeah, okay, I kind of had a feeling that wasn't going to dissuade you...)
A quick caveat before we begin...
Her lips are warm and trembling, then greedy and hot. She’s not pushing me away now, but yanking me closer. I laugh into her mouth as she goes to her toes, her fingers sliding up to tangle in my hair.
I knew Anastasia would burn hot under all that ice, and I wasn’t wrong. Kissing her is like kissing the stars, white, fierce and blinding.
Utterly beyond my reach.
'Of Ice and Death' or Meet the Heroine/Hero...
In this tale, we delve into the story of Anastasia Gosse (sister of Persephone and Jett), a powerful and determined witch whose icy, beautiful, and often bossy demeanor hides a huge heart, understandable fear and anger, a strong desire to protect her family from all that threatens them, and a willingness to do anything in order to achieve that goal.
Even mess with the likes of Tyr Kanerva.
Which is never a good idea.
I’m so stunned, I just stare, forgetting to be afraid. “How did you get up here?” My bedroom is up a sheer wall, and unlike Seph’s room, there is no trellis.
He stands at the foot of my bed, glowering at me. “You may recall what I do for a living?”
I’ve obviously insulted his prowess. We stare at each other for a long minute. “What are you doing here?”
“I heard you were dying.” His voice is clipped. “I came to see if my conflict of interest had resolved itself.”
I laugh, wincing slightly where my flesh is still knitting together.
Tyr is a man with a devastating past, a burning, lifelong desire for vengeance, and the cojones to take on and tangle with the gods. And, oh yeah, he kills for a living.
So when Ana forces Tyr to sign a contract in blood that totally conflicts with another contract he’s undertaken (from someone incredibly dangerous), he’s not a happy assassin. This situation will jeopardize both his livelihood and his life, and more importantly (priorities, schmiorities), his opportunity for revenge, especially if he doesn’t play his cards just right. But one cool, irritating, clever, and sexy witch keeps shuffling his deck in more ways than one...
Suffice it to say, his life would be so much simpler if someone (or several someone's) would just die. That’s how things have been dealt with and resolved in the past, and that usually works out quite nicely for him. Unfortunately, the ‘ice queen’ who has somehow managed to manipulate and trap him, also intrigues and attracts him far more than he’s comfortable with, thus complicating both their lives in ways unexpected…
More details, a dash of trickery, and further thoughts...
This book is written in dual first person POV and broken down into two parts. The first half takes place during the events of the first three books, giving the reader an alternate storyline regarding what Ana and Tyr were up to during that time. The second half takes place after those huge events have gone down, and delves into the mysteries, secrets, and challenges that still remain for Ana and Tyr...
"Gods, woman, a little trust would be nice.”
“This is not a relationship built on trust.” As soon as I say the words, I want to yank them back, but it’s too late. The grin fades from his face as the darkness floods back in. Gods, what have I done? “Tyr. I didn’t mean that. Not exactly. I—”
“No, you’re perfectly right.” His tone is aiming for careless but doesn’t quite get there. “Trusting an assassin of the realm would be ridiculous.”
And it would be. It really, really would be . . .
But suddenly I wish I could. I wish he’d let me.
Is there more to the story? Sure. A whole lot more.
Witches. Assassins. Sex. Romance. Fire. Devastation. Heartbreak. Family. Magic. Moonstones. Gods. Goddesses. Death. Obsession. Royalty. Betrayal. Lies. Sacrifice.
(And that pretty much tells you everything and nothing because, yeah, I'm tricky like that. And Ms. Blair has me totally beat in that department as she gleefully weaves her webs and casts her word spells full of magic and mystery. I love how her mind works and the way she writes...)
True spoilers ahead... open at your own risk...
Now, in truth, I would have liked to have had
I also want to mention that the way the
The author played with definite shades of light and dark here
Wrapping it up...
It was great to be transported back to a world that I now know, enjoy, and look forward to. It felt like visiting old friends while being given yet another new and fascinating perspective on their lives and marveling at how each story honors all the interweaving connections.
The characters in Ms.Blair's world aren’t just window dressing on the side, called to the stage only as props for Persephone and Jack's tale (as the prophecy makes clear). They’ve got their own winding roads and complicated paths to navigate, and are doing what they can to survive and hopefully thrive, while also dealing with their own wounds and finding their way through all the craziness that life brings.
Many complex and interesting beings are required to play their part in potentially changing the course of the future by looking death square in the eye, challenging the winds of fate, and going up against fairy tale Karma itself (that bitch.).
Ms. Blair could tell me a story about any of these characters and she’d capture my imagination and interest because they all matter. I love that. This is a fully realized world with all its rules, blessings and challenges, and so much magic. Both the fairy tale kind and the kind the characters create by virtue of who they are, the ways they interact, and how they love.
“How would you know what love is, assassin?” he sneers.
“I know what it’s not. It’s not carving out a piece of her soul to save your own. It’s about giving up what you treasure most to save her.”
*** A copy of this book was received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Links to my other reviews for this series:
Sixpence & Whiskey (Toil and Trouble, Book #1)
Blackbirds & Bourbon (Toil and Trouble, Book #2)
Roses & Rye (Toil and Trouble, Book #3)
Threescore & Tequila (Toil and Trouble, Book #4)
October 27, 2017
Hot damn! These two! 😍🔥🔥! This had a little bit of a different feel than the previous books, it was less jam packed with action, more jam packed with hotness! I'm not complaining either way, it was just as good and exiting. It focused a lot more on Tyr and Ana than the world around them, and I liked learning and figuring them out. Their relationship is adorable, though it doesn't quite seem that way on the surface, when ya get down to it that's just what it is :). Along with being really quite humorous and super flippin HOT!
June 28, 2017
Fair Warning : Read this series from the start if you don't want to end up as a cluless smurf. Plus you will definitely enjoy it more with all the facts at hand.
Ana and Try are both intriguing characters and this story gives you a glimpse into their past.
Some people like living in the past; it’s where they feel cozy and safe.
Ana was the eldest sister - cold, distant and reserved. She was protective to the bone, loyal to her family. You learn her paranoia and fears are well founded.
All my sisters, gone.
It’s my worst nightmare all over again.
Tyr has trained under Freya and is the best Assasin of the Realm. He has a reputation for being ruthless and finds himself in a tough spot.
Barmy as it is, I’ll be attempting to honor two opposing contracts. If I succeed, it’ll add to the legend. If I don’t . . . I shrug.
Tyr was quick, patient, inventive and was linked to three sisters from the prophecy.
Tyr and Ana were an unlikely couple and I was worried about how they would move forward. Both seek control and are formidable with unique skills.
“I dislike surprises, Anastasia.” The words are low and surprisingly soft. “So you will not be getting injured again.”
“Is that an order?” I blink up at him.
He doesn’t smile. “It is.”
The story also gives you another perspective on Seph's conundrum and the Gosse family. Mother Gosse makes an appearance, she is enigmatic and leaves you puzzled.
Chaos is the master all must bow to in the end.
The writing was lyrical and hypnotic, luring you into a dangerous world with dark fairytales.
She sang of broken hearts and lovers lost.
Heather Blair is a Master of the Cliffhanger and you will be waiting for the next book with bated breath. Or paying an assasin to procure the book for you...
I received a free ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Ana and Try are both intriguing characters and this story gives you a glimpse into their past.
Some people like living in the past; it’s where they feel cozy and safe.
Ana was the eldest sister - cold, distant and reserved. She was protective to the bone, loyal to her family. You learn her paranoia and fears are well founded.
All my sisters, gone.
It’s my worst nightmare all over again.
Tyr has trained under Freya and is the best Assasin of the Realm. He has a reputation for being ruthless and finds himself in a tough spot.
Barmy as it is, I’ll be attempting to honor two opposing contracts. If I succeed, it’ll add to the legend. If I don’t . . . I shrug.
Tyr was quick, patient, inventive and was linked to three sisters from the prophecy.
Tyr and Ana were an unlikely couple and I was worried about how they would move forward. Both seek control and are formidable with unique skills.
“I dislike surprises, Anastasia.” The words are low and surprisingly soft. “So you will not be getting injured again.”
“Is that an order?” I blink up at him.
He doesn’t smile. “It is.”
The story also gives you another perspective on Seph's conundrum and the Gosse family. Mother Gosse makes an appearance, she is enigmatic and leaves you puzzled.
Chaos is the master all must bow to in the end.
The writing was lyrical and hypnotic, luring you into a dangerous world with dark fairytales.
She sang of broken hearts and lovers lost.
Heather Blair is a Master of the Cliffhanger and you will be waiting for the next book with bated breath. Or paying an assasin to procure the book for you...
I received a free ARC in exchange for a honest review.
July 1, 2017
This is book 5 in Heather Blair's bewitched world. It's Ana and Tyr's story and boy, was it a good one.
These two are very hot together. I even mentioned needing a cigarette after reading about their first sexy time together. I don't smoke kids....
This is a sexy, magical, wild and witty read. I love that we get glimpses of the past couples, too.
I'm anxiously awaiting Carly's book next. You must read this series. Start with book 1, hunker down and just enjoy.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
These two are very hot together. I even mentioned needing a cigarette after reading about their first sexy time together. I don't smoke kids....
This is a sexy, magical, wild and witty read. I love that we get glimpses of the past couples, too.
I'm anxiously awaiting Carly's book next. You must read this series. Start with book 1, hunker down and just enjoy.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
March 7, 2018
This series is so good! I loved this one too😍
June 27, 2017
I'm going to be honest and say that after the first two chapters, I wasn't sure where I was going to land on this book. But I LOVED the story of Ana and Tyr. These two characters have amazing chemistry and my heart literally ached for them.
The author blasted me with a wicked curve ball - which I really should've seen coming - but I did not. I love how the storyline all came together in the end.
I've read all of the other books in this series and I honestly don't know if a reader would enjoy this book as a stand alone story. There are several leaps in timeline ... and the author brushes over some of the incidents with the other sisters ... which is fine if you've read the other books. Personally, I think this book works because I already knew the background.
Ana is a wonderful character but, for me, it was Tyr that made this story great.
The author blasted me with a wicked curve ball - which I really should've seen coming - but I did not. I love how the storyline all came together in the end.
I've read all of the other books in this series and I honestly don't know if a reader would enjoy this book as a stand alone story. There are several leaps in timeline ... and the author brushes over some of the incidents with the other sisters ... which is fine if you've read the other books. Personally, I think this book works because I already knew the background.
Ana is a wonderful character but, for me, it was Tyr that made this story great.
June 22, 2017
5+ STARS!!!
Let me just say that I've been a fan of Heather R. Blair's writing ever since I read Smoke in Moonlight back in 2014 and even I was impressed with how well thought out and written this story was. This book isn't just an addition to an already creative series, it is written as a parallel narrative to the first four books in this series. I found myself in awe of how Ms. Blair was able to seamlessly connect all of the books as well as the events throughout the series.
Anastasia Gosse has always been the cold and aloof sister with a heart of ice and no time or desire for love. But what if she wasn't always like that? What if all Ana ever wanted was to reunite her sisters and protect them from the evil surrounding their family?
When Ana decides to blackmail Tyr Kanerva, an assassin of the realm, she never expects to find her happily ever after. And when a ghost from her past rises up again to claim her, Ana may lose her chance at HEA for good.
I absolutely loved this book and I would highly recommend this series to PNR fans. You will not be disappointed.
Let me just say that I've been a fan of Heather R. Blair's writing ever since I read Smoke in Moonlight back in 2014 and even I was impressed with how well thought out and written this story was. This book isn't just an addition to an already creative series, it is written as a parallel narrative to the first four books in this series. I found myself in awe of how Ms. Blair was able to seamlessly connect all of the books as well as the events throughout the series.
Anastasia Gosse has always been the cold and aloof sister with a heart of ice and no time or desire for love. But what if she wasn't always like that? What if all Ana ever wanted was to reunite her sisters and protect them from the evil surrounding their family?
When Ana decides to blackmail Tyr Kanerva, an assassin of the realm, she never expects to find her happily ever after. And when a ghost from her past rises up again to claim her, Ana may lose her chance at HEA for good.
I absolutely loved this book and I would highly recommend this series to PNR fans. You will not be disappointed.
June 30, 2017
4 stars! This was a great addition to the Toil and Trouble series! This is Anastasia and Tyr's story. Ana was the witchy sister that I knew the least about. She was raised in the revolutionary area, while separated from her mother and sisters. Though she is in the present day now, she still dresses like Marie Antoinette. Tyr is a gypsy orphan turned assassin for hire. The two have run in the same circles in the fairytale world, but don't know each other well. But when all of stuff started to go down in the previous books to Seph (Ana's sister), Ana hires Tyr to keep Seph safe. The only trouble is that someone else, someone more powerful, has hired Tyr to kill Seph. He is contracted to do conflicting missions and he doesn't know how to honor both vows. But he does know that he is attracted to Ana, and vice versa. Ana has had a long dry spell in the romance department (like 100 years). She has never had the pull and attraction to someone that she feels with Tyr. They begin a no-strings, physcal relationship, but soon grow to care for each other and eventually fall in love. They have to deal with Tyr's dilemma, some scary characters, sibling and parent issues, but it all works out in the end.
I really liked both Ana and Tyr. They were both great, complicated characters who had been through a lot in their pasts. They both deserved to find love and happiness with each other. Ana comes off as an ice queen at first, but really she is feisty, caring and selfless, often putting her sisters' happiness first. Tyr never imagined he would have a life beyond being an assassin, but he couldn't get Ana out of his head. They had a great connection and understood each other in a way no one ever had. They also had some very sexy and sweet moments. I loved that they were both new to being in a relationship, but they never really pushed each other away. They accepted that they were falling for each other and let it happen.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book, but there were a few things that didn't quite work for me.
This was a little tricky to follow at first. This book takes place at the same time as the Seph's books (books 1-3 in the series), but it had been awhile for me since I read those books. There is a lot going on, and I wish I had re-read those books before this one. I was a little confused. I don't think I would consider this book a standalone. There is also a 6 month time jump in the book, which I wasn't too fond of. I wish I had that time to see Ana and Tyr's relationship grow stronger and them become closer. Because of that, I felt the pacing was a little bit off. Also, there were some scary, suspenseful moments going on, but I didn't feel the sense of danger that was implied. Maybe that was because I knew the outcome of most of the conflicts since it was repeated from the previous books.
But, despite those few things, I really liked the book. I would like to binge-reread the whole series again in order and I think I will like this book even more with the story all fresh in my mind. I have enjoyed this fun series so much. The awesome characters and story are so original and interesting. I am really looking forward to Carly and Styx's story, as I have loved the glimpses we have gotten of their relationship so far. This is one of my fave paranormal series and I definitely recommend it!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
I really liked both Ana and Tyr. They were both great, complicated characters who had been through a lot in their pasts. They both deserved to find love and happiness with each other. Ana comes off as an ice queen at first, but really she is feisty, caring and selfless, often putting her sisters' happiness first. Tyr never imagined he would have a life beyond being an assassin, but he couldn't get Ana out of his head. They had a great connection and understood each other in a way no one ever had. They also had some very sexy and sweet moments. I loved that they were both new to being in a relationship, but they never really pushed each other away. They accepted that they were falling for each other and let it happen.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book, but there were a few things that didn't quite work for me.
This was a little tricky to follow at first. This book takes place at the same time as the Seph's books (books 1-3 in the series), but it had been awhile for me since I read those books. There is a lot going on, and I wish I had re-read those books before this one. I was a little confused. I don't think I would consider this book a standalone. There is also a 6 month time jump in the book, which I wasn't too fond of. I wish I had that time to see Ana and Tyr's relationship grow stronger and them become closer. Because of that, I felt the pacing was a little bit off. Also, there were some scary, suspenseful moments going on, but I didn't feel the sense of danger that was implied. Maybe that was because I knew the outcome of most of the conflicts since it was repeated from the previous books.
But, despite those few things, I really liked the book. I would like to binge-reread the whole series again in order and I think I will like this book even more with the story all fresh in my mind. I have enjoyed this fun series so much. The awesome characters and story are so original and interesting. I am really looking forward to Carly and Styx's story, as I have loved the glimpses we have gotten of their relationship so far. This is one of my fave paranormal series and I definitely recommend it!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
September 16, 2021
4.5 Stars
Anastasia Gosse would do anything for her family. After growing up separated from her sisters, not only in different locations, but different centuries altogether, Ana cherishes every moment they can spend together. But things in the Gosse family are starting to get complicated... only this time, Ana refuses to take any chances when it comes to the well-being of the people who mean everything to her...
Tyr Kanerva is renowned assassin who prides himself on getting the job done... until one little witch bests him in a way he never saw coming. Ana's subterfuge may have been a brilliant move, but Tyr's fascination with her is only getting started...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Déjà Vu & Gin brought the heat with an incredibly sexy, emotional and intriguing, opposites attract storyline. Anastasia and Tyr would never deny the attraction they share, but when it comes to a future between them... even the FTC world itself seems to be against them...
Ana and Tyr were another fantastic couple in the amazing Toil & Trouble series! The assassin meets his match in a woman who is more comfortable in court dress than with any of the trappings of the modern world. Their connection was spicy, sexy and fun, and while they never quite knew how much trust they could truly give to each other, their instincts told another story...
The plot of this series just keeps getting better and better, and every last character brings not only their own depth and growth, but an incredible rich contribution to the series as a whole. Ana and Tyr were a couple whose story I waited to read for a very long time, and I was so happy to finally see their HEA with my own book-devouring, eyes.
I voluntarily purchased my copy of this book and have provided my honest and unbiased review.
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Anastasia Gosse would do anything for her family. After growing up separated from her sisters, not only in different locations, but different centuries altogether, Ana cherishes every moment they can spend together. But things in the Gosse family are starting to get complicated... only this time, Ana refuses to take any chances when it comes to the well-being of the people who mean everything to her...
Tyr Kanerva is renowned assassin who prides himself on getting the job done... until one little witch bests him in a way he never saw coming. Ana's subterfuge may have been a brilliant move, but Tyr's fascination with her is only getting started...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Déjà Vu & Gin brought the heat with an incredibly sexy, emotional and intriguing, opposites attract storyline. Anastasia and Tyr would never deny the attraction they share, but when it comes to a future between them... even the FTC world itself seems to be against them...
Ana and Tyr were another fantastic couple in the amazing Toil & Trouble series! The assassin meets his match in a woman who is more comfortable in court dress than with any of the trappings of the modern world. Their connection was spicy, sexy and fun, and while they never quite knew how much trust they could truly give to each other, their instincts told another story...
The plot of this series just keeps getting better and better, and every last character brings not only their own depth and growth, but an incredible rich contribution to the series as a whole. Ana and Tyr were a couple whose story I waited to read for a very long time, and I was so happy to finally see their HEA with my own book-devouring, eyes.
I voluntarily purchased my copy of this book and have provided my honest and unbiased review.
Check out the Blog!
http://nightbirdnovels.com/2021/09/14...
Follow Me on Instagram
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Twitter
July 4, 2017
What can I say about this book without sounding like a raving fangirl? Uh, I don't think that's possible. I freaken loved this book! While you could read it as a standalone, I wouldn't recommend it. You'd definitely be lost. So that means do yourself a favour and start with Sixpence and Whiskey
, enjoy the twists and turns of the series and then once you're caught, read this book.
I adored Ana and Tyr. Honestly wasn't sure how I'd feel about Ana because she's a cold woman. Her emotions are in a deep freeze, but there's a good reason why. I'm not spoiling it for you, read it yourself and you'll know. ;) Tyr, well, the assassin of the realm had me intrigued since the day he appeared in Seph's book, contracted to kill her. Again, read the series and you'll know what I mean. I feel like River Song and her "spoilers!" *laughs* If you don't get that reference, we probably can't be friends.
The chemistry between these two was awesome. There were some moments where I was blushing. Wheew! I didn't stop reading, though. If I could give this book more stars, I would. Now I'll not-so-patiently wait for the next book. It's Carly and Styx! Woot!!
, enjoy the twists and turns of the series and then once you're caught, read this book.I adored Ana and Tyr. Honestly wasn't sure how I'd feel about Ana because she's a cold woman. Her emotions are in a deep freeze, but there's a good reason why. I'm not spoiling it for you, read it yourself and you'll know. ;) Tyr, well, the assassin of the realm had me intrigued since the day he appeared in Seph's book, contracted to kill her. Again, read the series and you'll know what I mean. I feel like River Song and her "spoilers!" *laughs* If you don't get that reference, we probably can't be friends.
The chemistry between these two was awesome. There were some moments where I was blushing. Wheew! I didn't stop reading, though. If I could give this book more stars, I would. Now I'll not-so-patiently wait for the next book. It's Carly and Styx! Woot!!
January 14, 2019
No redemption
Ana is written and standoffish in the earlier books and this book from her POV doesn't change anything. The few times she merges with the family and the public are awkward and her internal musings don't match with her actions.
With half the book being an alternate POV rehash of the earlier books, any lingering suspense developed by the bomb dropped at the end of book 4 is gone. Once the new part of the story starts, the pacing is rushed and story development is minimal.
Ana is written and standoffish in the earlier books and this book from her POV doesn't change anything. The few times she merges with the family and the public are awkward and her internal musings don't match with her actions.
With half the book being an alternate POV rehash of the earlier books, any lingering suspense developed by the bomb dropped at the end of book 4 is gone. Once the new part of the story starts, the pacing is rushed and story development is minimal.
August 24, 2017
Warning: the Toil & Trouble series is highly addictive. Could be potentiated by the glowing light of a kindle.
I read three chapters sitting in the doctor's office and could not put it down. I kept grabbing for my kindle like--I've got to get back to this story. It kept calling to me. Haunting me. Wow! Loved it! Just like everyone else, just like any sane person. Though, this series could drive you insane with literary bliss.
So far, this one is my favorite story in the T&T series. That's saying a lot because each sister's story draws me in closer to the family. Oh gawd, there is going to be another book, right?
Heather Blair is a talented author. I'm a big fan! Loved the beautiful, horrifying plot. The writing is stunning, so quotable. The perfect Game of Thrones references, captivating dialogue, and the sword. The sword! Just perfect! So many tears. So many smiles.
I read three chapters sitting in the doctor's office and could not put it down. I kept grabbing for my kindle like--I've got to get back to this story. It kept calling to me. Haunting me. Wow! Loved it! Just like everyone else, just like any sane person. Though, this series could drive you insane with literary bliss.
So far, this one is my favorite story in the T&T series. That's saying a lot because each sister's story draws me in closer to the family. Oh gawd, there is going to be another book, right?
Heather Blair is a talented author. I'm a big fan! Loved the beautiful, horrifying plot. The writing is stunning, so quotable. The perfect Game of Thrones references, captivating dialogue, and the sword. The sword! Just perfect! So many tears. So many smiles.
June 25, 2017
Outstanding! This is a continuation of the "Toil & Trouble" series. Passion, intrigue, and betrayal are foremost in fun story. This is the 4th book I have read by this author and I love each one. I can not wait to read the next one! Grab yours and enjoy all the mythical beings come to life.
June 26, 2017
!!!
Full review to come. Need to gather my thoughts for a decent review.
Full review to come. Need to gather my thoughts for a decent review.
January 27, 2018
Really enjoyed getting the backstory and love story on Anastasia! I think I'll enjoy the re-read even more because the timeline is so parallel to the first 3 books.
June 26, 2017
I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy for an honest review from the author, and I am so glad I did!
From the very beginning, Deja Vu & Gin packs an emotional punch. I love how Ms. Blair continues to create a depth to her characters that is not formulaic or expected. I had anticipated this book and thought I had an idea of how the characters would be portrayed. Ms. Blair threw me for a loop with the background of both characters, and gave a fascinating view of the past demons they were fighting in order to move on and be open to love. I would characterize this story as a true love story. A love story where two broken people are willing to grow, trust and sacrifice in order to be together.
It is a beautiful tale, not just a romance or erotic romance, but a story of magic, mystery, eroticism and true love. I think that is why I love her book so much. I love my romances, I love my hot scenes, but anymore, it is hard to find a book that draws you so into the story and the characters, that make you feel every emotion the characters are experiencing. A book that you find even with a happy ending bittersweet, because you can't wait to be sucked back into that world.
From the very beginning, Deja Vu & Gin packs an emotional punch. I love how Ms. Blair continues to create a depth to her characters that is not formulaic or expected. I had anticipated this book and thought I had an idea of how the characters would be portrayed. Ms. Blair threw me for a loop with the background of both characters, and gave a fascinating view of the past demons they were fighting in order to move on and be open to love. I would characterize this story as a true love story. A love story where two broken people are willing to grow, trust and sacrifice in order to be together.
It is a beautiful tale, not just a romance or erotic romance, but a story of magic, mystery, eroticism and true love. I think that is why I love her book so much. I love my romances, I love my hot scenes, but anymore, it is hard to find a book that draws you so into the story and the characters, that make you feel every emotion the characters are experiencing. A book that you find even with a happy ending bittersweet, because you can't wait to be sucked back into that world.
November 16, 2019
Another enjoyable entry into this series! Ana and Tyr were both fantastic characters. Deep, flawed, and both with heartbreaking pasts, their chemistry together was hot and fierce. Seeing them together was fun and watching them outmaneuver each other was great. The tease at the end of the previous book doesn't come to fruition until well past the halfway mark, but the history between Tyr and Ana was important to explore. Definitely recommend this series to paranormal romance readers!
June 6, 2020
It's like Blair realized all anyone wanted was sex scenes instead of a story. Because that's legit all this was. The story was secondary and suffered for it.
As a disclaimer, I enjoy well written sex scenes. They just shouldn't be majority of the book.
As a disclaimer, I enjoy well written sex scenes. They just shouldn't be majority of the book.
July 13, 2017
Fabulous!
This is my favorite book of the series. Ana and Tyr are perfectly matched. I laughed, and cried, and even slowed down my reading pace to draw out the experience. Awesome!
This is my favorite book of the series. Ana and Tyr are perfectly matched. I laughed, and cried, and even slowed down my reading pace to draw out the experience. Awesome!
October 30, 2025
Ok, so I'm not the most patient writer of reviews. I don't explain myself articulately, and I always cringe when I re-read my hurried lines. This time I'm going to make an effort and write as best as I can. However this review may contain spoilers so read at your own discretion. Also English is not my first language so bear with me.
Heather R. Blair is a good writer. But she ends her story lines, and ties her loose ends just like how I write my reviews: Hurriedly, and superficially.
As we go on, I find less and less books that can grip me, as a reader, and take me within their world. It's becoming a lost art! this is not a problem where these books are concerned, at least not the first two thirds. When you get to the last one third of the book, where plots and secrets are revealed and need to be resolved, everything turns to mush. Even conversations become flimsy, plot lines are rushed, characters become a shadow of their former selves, and the Big Secrets, turn out to be very flimsy plot devices that belittle the whole book. Take for example this last one, the scene where Ana is kidnapped! First of all how hurriedly is it written? I have written better book reports during my school days, when I had to write the whole essay during the last hour till deadline. It was such a rushed up, flimsy, watered down scene, and the problem is we know the author can do much better!
Also, the following needless additions: why would Tyr tell Ana such a convoluted lie about his last test at Freya's? To make her despise him? Is he suffering from some sort of inferiority complex? Is he a pathetic passive aggressive douche that wants her to hate him? And to what end? He couldn't have known that Jet would tell Ana the truth, and he planned to rescue Ana anyway, so why make her hate him? What purpose did such a silly thing serve? Over dramatisation just makes people seem silly and pathetic. On to the next point, why wouldn't he tell Ana? The fire prince couldn't have read her thoughts, and Ana wasn't an idiot. And had he not given them the blood from Jett's prison he'd have bought Ana more time. But let's say the author's asking us to suspend our disbelief, and she wanted him to be obliged to deliver her into the prince's hands. He had one week to prepare her, and her family to devise a plan, namely secure the Ren, so that they could win the whole thing. Instead he stood there like blithering idiotic school boy, brooding. What an idiot! Moreover, what a shame that the author turned such a brilliant character into a blithering idiot! Then there's the prince forcing Ana to drink the Ren, why? His magic nullified hers to the extent that she couldn't even scry the palace from the other side of the globe. So he had enough power to subdue her, without making her hate him. It was such an unnecessary plot twist, all made so that the mother's words about her belonging to fire would make sense, and so that tyr could make the ultimate grand gesture in the end. I appreciate the intent, but the execution was awful and flimsy. And sad. Hurried. And very roughly done. The whole thing lacked depth. similar scenes of prophecies,grand gestures, and fake betrayals have been done so very much better in so many older books. The way this part is executed in all her books, just shows her lack of mastery as a writer, and her lack of patience to sit down and work out a circle where things make sense, and aren't all forced down the reader's throats as obligatory plot devices. I hope she grows as a writer. And I hope she one day, she'll be able to finish her books as brilliantly as she starts them.
Heather R. Blair is a good writer. But she ends her story lines, and ties her loose ends just like how I write my reviews: Hurriedly, and superficially.
As we go on, I find less and less books that can grip me, as a reader, and take me within their world. It's becoming a lost art! this is not a problem where these books are concerned, at least not the first two thirds. When you get to the last one third of the book, where plots and secrets are revealed and need to be resolved, everything turns to mush. Even conversations become flimsy, plot lines are rushed, characters become a shadow of their former selves, and the Big Secrets, turn out to be very flimsy plot devices that belittle the whole book. Take for example this last one, the scene where Ana is kidnapped! First of all how hurriedly is it written? I have written better book reports during my school days, when I had to write the whole essay during the last hour till deadline. It was such a rushed up, flimsy, watered down scene, and the problem is we know the author can do much better!
Also, the following needless additions: why would Tyr tell Ana such a convoluted lie about his last test at Freya's? To make her despise him? Is he suffering from some sort of inferiority complex? Is he a pathetic passive aggressive douche that wants her to hate him? And to what end? He couldn't have known that Jet would tell Ana the truth, and he planned to rescue Ana anyway, so why make her hate him? What purpose did such a silly thing serve? Over dramatisation just makes people seem silly and pathetic. On to the next point, why wouldn't he tell Ana? The fire prince couldn't have read her thoughts, and Ana wasn't an idiot. And had he not given them the blood from Jett's prison he'd have bought Ana more time. But let's say the author's asking us to suspend our disbelief, and she wanted him to be obliged to deliver her into the prince's hands. He had one week to prepare her, and her family to devise a plan, namely secure the Ren, so that they could win the whole thing. Instead he stood there like blithering idiotic school boy, brooding. What an idiot! Moreover, what a shame that the author turned such a brilliant character into a blithering idiot! Then there's the prince forcing Ana to drink the Ren, why? His magic nullified hers to the extent that she couldn't even scry the palace from the other side of the globe. So he had enough power to subdue her, without making her hate him. It was such an unnecessary plot twist, all made so that the mother's words about her belonging to fire would make sense, and so that tyr could make the ultimate grand gesture in the end. I appreciate the intent, but the execution was awful and flimsy. And sad. Hurried. And very roughly done. The whole thing lacked depth. similar scenes of prophecies,grand gestures, and fake betrayals have been done so very much better in so many older books. The way this part is executed in all her books, just shows her lack of mastery as a writer, and her lack of patience to sit down and work out a circle where things make sense, and aren't all forced down the reader's throats as obligatory plot devices. I hope she grows as a writer. And I hope she one day, she'll be able to finish her books as brilliantly as she starts them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2017
This series is just beyond words. I really liked learning about Ana and Tyr, and how they fit together with the other established couples. I am so SO pumped for Carly and Styx, and I eagerly await the next book!
4.5.
4.5.
July 4, 2020
Absolutely no chemistry between Ana and Tyr. Disappointing.
October 14, 2017
great hero but boring heroine and silly ending mean only 2.5 stars.
We have seen both Ana and Tyr in the first four books. This time we go through the same timeline but this time from their perspective. It is not a style I generally like and it was not overly well done here. That lead to some boredom on my part. Plus Ana was not inspiring in any way. however I really liked Tyr. He is the assassin with a heart of gold. I enjoyed watching him try to figure out how to meet the obligations of both his heart and his job.
We have seen both Ana and Tyr in the first four books. This time we go through the same timeline but this time from their perspective. It is not a style I generally like and it was not overly well done here. That lead to some boredom on my part. Plus Ana was not inspiring in any way. however I really liked Tyr. He is the assassin with a heart of gold. I enjoyed watching him try to figure out how to meet the obligations of both his heart and his job.
January 28, 2018
I read 5 of the 6 books in this series back-to-back, so I'm reviewing them as a group. It was a great series. I highly recommend it for paranormal romance fans who like a good mystery, well-written characters, and interesting stories. These books have happily-ever-after outcomes, but they aren't over-the-top romances where every other page is an excuse to rip off someone's clothes. As long as you are a fan of contemporary fantasy and willing to go along with creatures who hide in plain site who have magically powers, these quick reads are great.
July 23, 2023
If you liked the previous books you'll definitely love this one too. But do read them in order as they are interconnected and the story goes around the same time as the others and after.
I enjoyed seeing Ana unravel and seeing her softer side and understanding why she comes off as the ice queen. And who would've thought an assassin of the realm would be the one to bring out the softer side of her.
I enjoyed seeing Ana unravel and seeing her softer side and understanding why she comes off as the ice queen. And who would've thought an assassin of the realm would be the one to bring out the softer side of her.
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