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Dragon's Gift: The Protector #2
Trial by Magic
My secret is out.
You know that saying, to hell in a hand basket? That’s where my life is headed. Three days ago, the Vampire Court learned about my forbidden FireSoul magic. It’s basically a death sentence. Except they’ve made me a deal. I have to pass a series of trials, designed to test my magic and my loyalty. If I survive, I become an ally of the Court, which would be awesome.
Problem is, the trials are as deadly as a hungry hellhound and I can’t trust my partner, the sexy hybrid-vampire Ares. Worse, there’s a new magic inside me that’s eating me alive. It won’t stop until I learn to control it, but that’s a tall order given everything else that’s on my plate. Between the trials and a recent theft at my shop, Ancient Magic, I’m up to my ears in magical problems.
Trial by Magic is a fast-paced fantasy mystery with a kick-butt heroine, a tough hero, and magic that will blow your socks off.
You know that saying, to hell in a hand basket? That’s where my life is headed. Three days ago, the Vampire Court learned about my forbidden FireSoul magic. It’s basically a death sentence. Except they’ve made me a deal. I have to pass a series of trials, designed to test my magic and my loyalty. If I survive, I become an ally of the Court, which would be awesome.
Problem is, the trials are as deadly as a hungry hellhound and I can’t trust my partner, the sexy hybrid-vampire Ares. Worse, there’s a new magic inside me that’s eating me alive. It won’t stop until I learn to control it, but that’s a tall order given everything else that’s on my plate. Between the trials and a recent theft at my shop, Ancient Magic, I’m up to my ears in magical problems.
Trial by Magic is a fast-paced fantasy mystery with a kick-butt heroine, a tough hero, and magic that will blow your socks off.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2017
2070 people are currently reading
879 people want to read
About the author
Linsey Hall
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Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
For giveaways, contests and book discussion join my Facebook group
here!
Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
July 3, 2017
Well the second book about Nix sees her kind of stuck in the middle of an awful conundrum. First she has to convince the Vampire court that her FireSoul abilities do not necessarily make her their enemy and then there's the tricky problem of a missing artefact that is connected to a prophecy about what's seemingly impossible and that's the return of Dragons! So ok then because this is Nix and she might see herself as just a conjuror but with her newer abilities which she still hasn't got a handle on Nix is determined to get the trials over and return to her 'sisters'. With the Vampire Enforcer Ares by her side the trials begin but the Vampire realm is full of all sorts of nasties but the plucky Nix will keep going no matter what!
I love this character. Nix has so much heart and empathy. She might be the one who stays home and minds the shop but put her in a terrible situation and she just rises to the challenge. Her budding relationship with Ares is just perfectly paced as well. Ares has had to close himself off and concentrate on his duties so seeing him slowly crack as Nix impressed him just by being her natural self for this reader worked beautifully.
This book introduces not just the newest big , bad but also Goddesses who are clearly awe inspiring but oddly enough have a more juvenile side which added some much needed humour amongst all the danger. Yes there's action aplenty, nasty critters and the odd nod to ancient civilisations but most of all it's an exciting adventure that as usual ended far too soon. This is fun, over the top and I've not read anything similar to these books and look forward so much to the next one
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and is my honest and I believe fair opinion
I love this character. Nix has so much heart and empathy. She might be the one who stays home and minds the shop but put her in a terrible situation and she just rises to the challenge. Her budding relationship with Ares is just perfectly paced as well. Ares has had to close himself off and concentrate on his duties so seeing him slowly crack as Nix impressed him just by being her natural self for this reader worked beautifully.
This book introduces not just the newest big , bad but also Goddesses who are clearly awe inspiring but oddly enough have a more juvenile side which added some much needed humour amongst all the danger. Yes there's action aplenty, nasty critters and the odd nod to ancient civilisations but most of all it's an exciting adventure that as usual ended far too soon. This is fun, over the top and I've not read anything similar to these books and look forward so much to the next one
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and is my honest and I believe fair opinion
November 11, 2018
Action adventure - I do wish there were a bit more character development so that I’d care more what happened to them. It’s been awhile since I read the first book in the series, but recall it focused on a different character, so doubt the lag between books accounts for the disconnect. I will consider reading another.
January 1, 2018
Trial
KU DNF
This is like reading about a superhero. The book is fast paced but lacks subtilty, intrigue and maturity. If you're after a quick easy read this fits the bill.
KU DNF
This is like reading about a superhero. The book is fast paced but lacks subtilty, intrigue and maturity. If you're after a quick easy read this fits the bill.
July 4, 2017
***4 Stars***
I don’t know exactly what it is or why it is for that matter, but I find myself enjoying Nix’s journey a lot more than I did Cass and Del’s. It’s hard to pinpoint one aspect of the story that’s working for me because I just feel like everything just flowed really well. I really liked the idea of the trials and how they showed us just who Nix, as well as Ares, are at their cores. And the tension that the whole “I like you, but I don’t know if I can trust you” situation cause between Nix and Ares and where they ended up at the end of the book was done very well. I’m liking how there is a new threat with the dragon tattoo’d up gang as well as how it looks like the whole Triumvirate thing is coming into play. Hanging out with the rest of the crew is always a good time, even when they are battling for their lives and I’m looking forward to where the next book will take us!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
I don’t know exactly what it is or why it is for that matter, but I find myself enjoying Nix’s journey a lot more than I did Cass and Del’s. It’s hard to pinpoint one aspect of the story that’s working for me because I just feel like everything just flowed really well. I really liked the idea of the trials and how they showed us just who Nix, as well as Ares, are at their cores. And the tension that the whole “I like you, but I don’t know if I can trust you” situation cause between Nix and Ares and where they ended up at the end of the book was done very well. I’m liking how there is a new threat with the dragon tattoo’d up gang as well as how it looks like the whole Triumvirate thing is coming into play. Hanging out with the rest of the crew is always a good time, even when they are battling for their lives and I’m looking forward to where the next book will take us!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
August 7, 2017
There was a lot of action, and Nix really proved that she's strong and capable, and doesn't need to rely on someone else to get things done. The climax wasn't that exciting though and it just seemed like Nix was kind of overpowered. The romance was subtle, but there were some . The book did not enthrall me or make me want to re-read sections though.
Pros
Good action
Strong heroine
Cons:
No sense of real danger
Pros
Good action
Strong heroine
Cons:
No sense of real danger
December 31, 2018
I loved Trial By Magic, it really pushed Nix to new levels which she really needs I have a feeling she will be the strongest of the 3 girls and she also doubts herself so much and she shouldn't Cass, Del and Nix are all amazing in their own ways and even better together doubt is way too negative emotions when dealing with strong magical beings.
June 26, 2020
Another great installment in this series. Once again, it was not perfect, but I really enjoyed it nonetheless.
July 29, 2018
Can't wait
Nix and Ares are at it again. If Nix doesn't want to be outed for a FireSoul, then she must pass the trials for the Vampires showing that she would be an ally. I love how their relationship changes throughout the story. The goddesses of fate were really cool too. The Triumvirate's job is almost over and I can't wait to see the finale.
Nix and Ares are at it again. If Nix doesn't want to be outed for a FireSoul, then she must pass the trials for the Vampires showing that she would be an ally. I love how their relationship changes throughout the story. The goddesses of fate were really cool too. The Triumvirate's job is almost over and I can't wait to see the finale.
October 21, 2017
In my previous reviews I have always lamented that the books in this series are very similar. In the first book they are somehow involved in a crime, meet their love interest who is suspicious of what they are, they steal their first magic. By the second book hubby has found out what they are, they have to learn to control their power probably with his help, etc. You get my drift.
Cass and Del are actually so similar that it's sometimes hard to tell them apart. Even fight sequences are always the same. In Del's series this sameness as well as the continuation errors got worse and worse. Sometimes you almost got the impression that a different person was writing the books, especially when Cass suddenly started throwing fire instead of lighting and changed form when Aidan wasn't even around. I think in the fifth book the author then came up with this storing Aidan's magic explanation to cover up the mistakes.
The good thing about Nix's series that while it still had these similarities in structure, there are enough differences to make this more enjoyable than Del's series. There also finally were some tomb raiding elements again. The plot itself centers mainly around the vampire council testing Nix to judge if her being a fire soul is a problem and ends with the usual prophecy about the last member of the triumvirate.
While Ares and Nix both fell victim to the usual instant love that for example makes him trust a total stranger belonging to a race that his mother actually hunted without question, the two at least seem a little more conflicted about it.
A big improvement over the second series. While it is still light reading the protagonists have gained a little more character.
Cass and Del are actually so similar that it's sometimes hard to tell them apart. Even fight sequences are always the same. In Del's series this sameness as well as the continuation errors got worse and worse. Sometimes you almost got the impression that a different person was writing the books, especially when Cass suddenly started throwing fire instead of lighting and changed form when Aidan wasn't even around. I think in the fifth book the author then came up with this storing Aidan's magic explanation to cover up the mistakes.
The good thing about Nix's series that while it still had these similarities in structure, there are enough differences to make this more enjoyable than Del's series. There also finally were some tomb raiding elements again. The plot itself centers mainly around the vampire council testing Nix to judge if her being a fire soul is a problem and ends with the usual prophecy about the last member of the triumvirate.
While Ares and Nix both fell victim to the usual instant love that for example makes him trust a total stranger belonging to a race that his mother actually hunted without question, the two at least seem a little more conflicted about it.
A big improvement over the second series. While it is still light reading the protagonists have gained a little more character.
July 28, 2017
I can't tell you how many times I've discovered a new series where the first book is great but the subsequent installments suck. I am happy to say that this is not the case with the Dragon's Gifts series. The first book was wonderful and "Trial by Magic" is just as entertaining.
Nix and her friends are still investigating the Dragon tattoo gang who stole the original and fake magical beakers. However, before Nix can get very far she is visited by the handsome vampire enforcer, Ares, and she must go with him to participate in the first magical trials set forth by the vampire council. If she succeeds she becomes an ally of the vamps and fall under their protection but if she fails she dies. If course Ares failed to mention that few initiates survive and this certainly doesn't give him any brownie points in the trust department.
Yet, Ares accompanies Nix on her trial and is clearly in her corner. As we read about her trials we encounter strange but wondrous creatures. This is where the creativity of author Kinsey Hall truly comes to life. I loved the worlds and characters she created but most importantly I appreciated that she didn't skimp on the details. I also loved that she didn't rush the plot. The slow and smoldering sexual tension between Ares and Nix is simply delicious! I'm am sooooo enjoying this magical reading journey. This series is definitely one you will want to put on your 'to read' list.
Nix and her friends are still investigating the Dragon tattoo gang who stole the original and fake magical beakers. However, before Nix can get very far she is visited by the handsome vampire enforcer, Ares, and she must go with him to participate in the first magical trials set forth by the vampire council. If she succeeds she becomes an ally of the vamps and fall under their protection but if she fails she dies. If course Ares failed to mention that few initiates survive and this certainly doesn't give him any brownie points in the trust department.
Yet, Ares accompanies Nix on her trial and is clearly in her corner. As we read about her trials we encounter strange but wondrous creatures. This is where the creativity of author Kinsey Hall truly comes to life. I loved the worlds and characters she created but most importantly I appreciated that she didn't skimp on the details. I also loved that she didn't rush the plot. The slow and smoldering sexual tension between Ares and Nix is simply delicious! I'm am sooooo enjoying this magical reading journey. This series is definitely one you will want to put on your 'to read' list.
August 9, 2021
Recap:
Cass and Nix was journeying inside a cave to return a pot that with unknown magic (it was about to be robbed in the previous book) when they were attacked by demons and mages that could summon spiders. they barely couldn't handle fighting too much demons so cass teleported them back to ancient magic only to find it robbed and the replica of the pot missing. to make things worse, Ares came saying it was time for nix to go to the vampire court to be trialed.
Doyen and Magisteria told her to go to the volcano and retrieve some 'gold'. Ares accompanied her, they journeyed through a wood full of dark magic. Apparently, there was this witch dude who fawned over Laima, a goddess (literally), but she turned him down and he went mad and angry. they were trapped by the roots but apparently, Nix was developing a power to control plants so she could tell the roots to let her and Ares go. then they met with some Latvian dragons called Pūki made of fire who instantly liked her. the path to the volcano took them to the dark witch's castle and was attacked but they managed to cross over with the help of the Pukis.
Nix got injured a little but she insisted on using her healing potion. then, they must climbed the volcano but there was a monster called land squid whose tentacle harmed and poisoned them (Ares was immune to the poison. and why couldnt she just conjured a healing potion oh my lord-.- so fckin idiot. if she can't, just explain it then! stupid book?!). when they reached the top, Nix was dying from the potion and Ares forced her to drink his blood to rejuvenate and heal her because she had to go down to the volcano herself.
at the bottom, her dragon sense tugged her to the island in the middle of lava, where an unconscious man laid. Doyen appeared and told her to kill the man because he was evil and stole his power of alchemy and teleportation (so shallow of the author to think that all alchemy was about was turning stuff into gold -_-) but of course Nix the goodie in two shoes refused and tried to save the man. she dragged him across the lava (she made a bridge) and then he woke up when she gave him water. turned out, the man was only a banker who got kidnapped for her trial. Nix forced him to climb and they almost fell off the wall but the Pukis (made me hungry mmm...) helped them and they reached the top.
Ares, Doyen, and Magisteria congratulated her for succeeding and when Ares was about to take her back, the goddess Laima appeared, saying that her role as one of the Triumvirate had begun and she must retrieved back the clay pot that was stolen and of course, save the world (the cliche). and she returned back to her apartment. after she got some little rest, Ares told her that her next trial was that afternoon. she met with Cass, who told her some news about the mob and that they were on the outskirt of magic bend. but she got some trial to face before she handle the mafia boss.
on her next challenge, she was given a treasure map to follow and it required her to cross a silver lake on a rowboat, with Ares accompanied again. while the first challenge was designed to proof her loyalty, this next one was designed so she would use her power with every obstacles and showed the vampires that she was not a rouge firesouls. they got attacked by kraken (she had to conjure food to feed it), attacked by electric squids, they almost drowned and electrocuted when a huge boulders came out of nowhere on the prow of their boat where she had to destroy it, and when they arrived on an opal beach, they were attacked by creatures made of gemstone, where she had to use her informa power and retrieve information from their mind about the place where they would settle the night.
they found the hut and she cleaned herself on a river near it. the goddess Laima came to visit again and join her bathing in the pool. they chatted about the vampires and Laima told her that Nix should thrust Ares. the next day they continued their journey when Nix got sidetracked because she heard a desperate call of the puki. the puki was trapped by a deadly acid vines who would eventually eat it and her goody heart wouldn't allow her to leave it alone so she endangered herself by trying to rescue the puki, even though she got splashed of acids (i hate how books like this like to downplay the danger so their player would live on -_- Nix and Ares were splashed by acids for fck sake but she was fine!). she was trapped but Ares wouldn't leave her alone so he tried to save her too and when things were dire, stupid nix realized she could control the vines (like the indications from her previous journeys were not enough, idiot-_-)
the puki were saved and they arrived to their destination based on the map to a blinding white castle. they entered to find that it was the fate goddesses' castle, the three goddesses were there along with Doyen and Magica. the goddesses convinced the vampire court that they needed her in the future or they'd all fuck up. because she was the only one who could save them all, they should thrust them (... so shallow). then Cass called Nix through the charm saying that Claire was kidnapped by the mob so she hurriedly returned accompanied by Ares.
they reconciled with the others on P&P and they went to the harbor, approaching the enemy's lair from the ocean. in the middle of the sea, their boat was attacked by aggressive seaweeds but Nix with her newfound power forced her wills to them. then they swam to the beach only to be chased by hellhounds until Del called for pondflower to befriend the dogs. they entered the stronghold with invisibility charm, found Claire, and got attacked by more demons.
they fought several of his goons, until they found him in the middle of escape attempt. nix chased him to the rooftop but he managed to escape with a helicopter and then, Cass called her to get off the building because it was about to explode. she created a glider, almost fell from two stories high but Ares caught her, breaking her falls. Cass managed to get the beaker but Nix almost died from the fall due to some internal bleeding and broke bones but that was easily fixed. now, they only need to find the mafia boss.
Cass and Nix was journeying inside a cave to return a pot that with unknown magic (it was about to be robbed in the previous book) when they were attacked by demons and mages that could summon spiders. they barely couldn't handle fighting too much demons so cass teleported them back to ancient magic only to find it robbed and the replica of the pot missing. to make things worse, Ares came saying it was time for nix to go to the vampire court to be trialed.
Doyen and Magisteria told her to go to the volcano and retrieve some 'gold'. Ares accompanied her, they journeyed through a wood full of dark magic. Apparently, there was this witch dude who fawned over Laima, a goddess (literally), but she turned him down and he went mad and angry. they were trapped by the roots but apparently, Nix was developing a power to control plants so she could tell the roots to let her and Ares go. then they met with some Latvian dragons called Pūki made of fire who instantly liked her. the path to the volcano took them to the dark witch's castle and was attacked but they managed to cross over with the help of the Pukis.
Nix got injured a little but she insisted on using her healing potion. then, they must climbed the volcano but there was a monster called land squid whose tentacle harmed and poisoned them (Ares was immune to the poison. and why couldnt she just conjured a healing potion oh my lord-.- so fckin idiot. if she can't, just explain it then! stupid book?!). when they reached the top, Nix was dying from the potion and Ares forced her to drink his blood to rejuvenate and heal her because she had to go down to the volcano herself.
at the bottom, her dragon sense tugged her to the island in the middle of lava, where an unconscious man laid. Doyen appeared and told her to kill the man because he was evil and stole his power of alchemy and teleportation (so shallow of the author to think that all alchemy was about was turning stuff into gold -_-) but of course Nix the goodie in two shoes refused and tried to save the man. she dragged him across the lava (she made a bridge) and then he woke up when she gave him water. turned out, the man was only a banker who got kidnapped for her trial. Nix forced him to climb and they almost fell off the wall but the Pukis (made me hungry mmm...) helped them and they reached the top.
Ares, Doyen, and Magisteria congratulated her for succeeding and when Ares was about to take her back, the goddess Laima appeared, saying that her role as one of the Triumvirate had begun and she must retrieved back the clay pot that was stolen and of course, save the world (the cliche). and she returned back to her apartment. after she got some little rest, Ares told her that her next trial was that afternoon. she met with Cass, who told her some news about the mob and that they were on the outskirt of magic bend. but she got some trial to face before she handle the mafia boss.
on her next challenge, she was given a treasure map to follow and it required her to cross a silver lake on a rowboat, with Ares accompanied again. while the first challenge was designed to proof her loyalty, this next one was designed so she would use her power with every obstacles and showed the vampires that she was not a rouge firesouls. they got attacked by kraken (she had to conjure food to feed it), attacked by electric squids, they almost drowned and electrocuted when a huge boulders came out of nowhere on the prow of their boat where she had to destroy it, and when they arrived on an opal beach, they were attacked by creatures made of gemstone, where she had to use her informa power and retrieve information from their mind about the place where they would settle the night.
they found the hut and she cleaned herself on a river near it. the goddess Laima came to visit again and join her bathing in the pool. they chatted about the vampires and Laima told her that Nix should thrust Ares. the next day they continued their journey when Nix got sidetracked because she heard a desperate call of the puki. the puki was trapped by a deadly acid vines who would eventually eat it and her goody heart wouldn't allow her to leave it alone so she endangered herself by trying to rescue the puki, even though she got splashed of acids (i hate how books like this like to downplay the danger so their player would live on -_- Nix and Ares were splashed by acids for fck sake but she was fine!). she was trapped but Ares wouldn't leave her alone so he tried to save her too and when things were dire, stupid nix realized she could control the vines (like the indications from her previous journeys were not enough, idiot-_-)
the puki were saved and they arrived to their destination based on the map to a blinding white castle. they entered to find that it was the fate goddesses' castle, the three goddesses were there along with Doyen and Magica. the goddesses convinced the vampire court that they needed her in the future or they'd all fuck up. because she was the only one who could save them all, they should thrust them (... so shallow). then Cass called Nix through the charm saying that Claire was kidnapped by the mob so she hurriedly returned accompanied by Ares.
they reconciled with the others on P&P and they went to the harbor, approaching the enemy's lair from the ocean. in the middle of the sea, their boat was attacked by aggressive seaweeds but Nix with her newfound power forced her wills to them. then they swam to the beach only to be chased by hellhounds until Del called for pondflower to befriend the dogs. they entered the stronghold with invisibility charm, found Claire, and got attacked by more demons.
they fought several of his goons, until they found him in the middle of escape attempt. nix chased him to the rooftop but he managed to escape with a helicopter and then, Cass called her to get off the building because it was about to explode. she created a glider, almost fell from two stories high but Ares caught her, breaking her falls. Cass managed to get the beaker but Nix almost died from the fall due to some internal bleeding and broke bones but that was easily fixed. now, they only need to find the mafia boss.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2017
When we are at several books into a series, I get to the point I have no idea what to say in a review. When readers have made it this far, they already know what mostly to expect from an author and series. This is the case with this series. So, here goes: this book was great!! I have declared with each sister that I love the one currently even more than the last, and that is the case with Nix. I think I do like her the best. She is just so humble (not that the other ones weren’t) and level-headed. And, Ms. Hall’s signature great writing and great plots abound in this book. And, the action is heart-pounding and fun. Let’s also not forget Ares. He is just the perfect man for Nix. He just melts my heart. I always know that I am going to get a great book with this author, and this one does not disappoint. If you are already a fan, you will love this book. If you haven’t started this series, you need to! This series is one of my favorites and I hate to see it ever end! Highly recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
June 30, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
*WARNING* Do not start this book just before you go to bed, with the intention of only reading a chapter or two. One again I started reading this book late at night thinking I'd just get it started and then go to bed (after all, I had work in the morning). How naive I was to think that would ever happen with one of Linsey's books because when I looked at how much I had read (thinking I'd maybe been reading for half hour or so) I was over 50% of the way through, it was nearly 1am, and I had to get up just after 6am... If that doesn't tell you how good the book is, I don't know what will. Seriously, there is nothing more I can say (without spoilers) other than this is an amazing edition to the series and I can't wait for more Nix and Ares.
*WARNING* Do not start this book just before you go to bed, with the intention of only reading a chapter or two. One again I started reading this book late at night thinking I'd just get it started and then go to bed (after all, I had work in the morning). How naive I was to think that would ever happen with one of Linsey's books because when I looked at how much I had read (thinking I'd maybe been reading for half hour or so) I was over 50% of the way through, it was nearly 1am, and I had to get up just after 6am... If that doesn't tell you how good the book is, I don't know what will. Seriously, there is nothing more I can say (without spoilers) other than this is an amazing edition to the series and I can't wait for more Nix and Ares.
February 9, 2018
Our hero has been blackmailed into enduring vampire trials that supposedly test her loyalty. She also has her day job of protecting society and her friends, and moving forward with her romantic relationship with a guy she's still not sure she can trust.
After being hyped so much, the vampire trials end abruptly, either because of circumstances or lack of planning.
A prophecy in a previous book figures prominently. Now I'll have to read the two earlier series before getting back to this one.
Typos: a few wrong words ("done [one] of the heavy cars," "fell of [off]," etc.), incomplete sentence ("but having it confirmed by a seer speaking directly to me."), homophone errors (wringer/ringer, specs/specks), wrong tense ("that she'd mention[ed]"), missing apostrophe ("Aries['] face").
After being hyped so much, the vampire trials end abruptly, either because of circumstances or lack of planning.
A prophecy in a previous book figures prominently. Now I'll have to read the two earlier series before getting back to this one.
Typos: a few wrong words ("done [one] of the heavy cars," "fell of [off]," etc.), incomplete sentence ("but having it confirmed by a seer speaking directly to me."), homophone errors (wringer/ringer, specs/specks), wrong tense ("that she'd mention[ed]"), missing apostrophe ("Aries['] face").
July 2, 2017
Another hit the author nailed. I love learning more about Nix and her magical gifts. I was really impressed that she did not cower down to the vampire court. I loved the Goddess Laima. It's amazing to see Nix grow into more than just the conjurer and back up. She is so much more. We saw her strengths in the other stories but she is coming into her own now. I love seeing her "grow up" right before our eyes. I patiently await for the next story, I'm really curious about the magic in that clay pot and how it will help Nix.
August 3, 2017
These books just get better and better and I am hugely enjoying Nix's story. Although the format is shared with the previous stories of Cats and Del, I feel that Nix has an original story line all of her own and her past is very intriguing! I can't wait to get to the fifth book in this series and find out how things will turn out for all 3 sisters. However that will also be tinged with sadness as these books turning up on my kindle on a regular basis are a highlight of my reading calendar.
January 6, 2018
Trusting is hard
Nix definitely doesn't trust easily. Meeting deities was really cool and finding out what they do in their free time was hilarious. In each of the series, the women seem to feel that they are relatively powerless. They learn that they are really not, but it struck me as a journey of self empowerment too. I realllllly like Ares haha. Too bad this series isn't more adult ;)
Nix definitely doesn't trust easily. Meeting deities was really cool and finding out what they do in their free time was hilarious. In each of the series, the women seem to feel that they are relatively powerless. They learn that they are really not, but it struck me as a journey of self empowerment too. I realllllly like Ares haha. Too bad this series isn't more adult ;)
August 13, 2017
The Trials
Nix has to prove her loyalty to the Vampire Council, but do they want her to succeed? That is what Nix has to figure out. With the help of Ares, Nix has to navigate her way through trials to prove her worth. Will she succeed? Or will she find herself turned in to the Order of Magica for simply being a FireSoul?
Nix has to prove her loyalty to the Vampire Council, but do they want her to succeed? That is what Nix has to figure out. With the help of Ares, Nix has to navigate her way through trials to prove her worth. Will she succeed? Or will she find herself turned in to the Order of Magica for simply being a FireSoul?
February 21, 2018
Not sure what else to add to this.
I enjoyed the book but it did feel very short
I enjoyed the book but it did feel very short
August 17, 2017
Trial by Magic: Dragons Gift The Protector Book 2
Linsey Hall
The Protector Series continues as we find Nix in a real pickle. She and Cass are trying to find the original resting place for an artifact. One which some nasty Demons had tried to steal. They go start to go down this endless, deep, dark, Sinkhole ….. Well this is how it begins. You see Nix, Cass and Del are 3 intrepid female warriors. They are FireSouls but each have their own brand of magic, which seems to work well as the magic meshes and make the group stronger. Even though the girls have this knack for winding up in more trouble than they themselves can deal with. So enter Aidan, Roarke, Claire and Connor and oh yeah the new guy…Ares, Vampire Extraordinaire! He became part of the group in the LAST book. Ares only has eyes for Nix, and seems to know when to appear just when she needs him most.
Nix really got into deep trouble when she somehow got mixed up being someplace she should not have been. Ares being Vampire Enforcer came to investigate. WHAM! Attraction, desire, and lust all are magnified when Ares is around. Oh and there’s this small detail about Nix needing to prove to the Vampire Council, she is a good guy. Why you ask? Well, you really need to go back and read Fugitive of Magic (Dragon's Gift: The Protector Book 1).
Linsey Hall has a knack for giving readers an adventure, fantasy, magical, romance with suspense, history all through. But tis the twists and turns that keep you in your seat and glued to the page. Linsey is writes a smooth, detailed yet easy to read story. Iv’e been a follower since her Mythean Archana series and have seen her mature as a writer with every book. This is an author who knows the story keeps the reader coming back. So grab a drink and comfortable seat, get ready to be immersed into the world of Trial By Magic!
I was given an ARC but the Review is mine and freely done.
Linsey Hall
The Protector Series continues as we find Nix in a real pickle. She and Cass are trying to find the original resting place for an artifact. One which some nasty Demons had tried to steal. They go start to go down this endless, deep, dark, Sinkhole ….. Well this is how it begins. You see Nix, Cass and Del are 3 intrepid female warriors. They are FireSouls but each have their own brand of magic, which seems to work well as the magic meshes and make the group stronger. Even though the girls have this knack for winding up in more trouble than they themselves can deal with. So enter Aidan, Roarke, Claire and Connor and oh yeah the new guy…Ares, Vampire Extraordinaire! He became part of the group in the LAST book. Ares only has eyes for Nix, and seems to know when to appear just when she needs him most.
Nix really got into deep trouble when she somehow got mixed up being someplace she should not have been. Ares being Vampire Enforcer came to investigate. WHAM! Attraction, desire, and lust all are magnified when Ares is around. Oh and there’s this small detail about Nix needing to prove to the Vampire Council, she is a good guy. Why you ask? Well, you really need to go back and read Fugitive of Magic (Dragon's Gift: The Protector Book 1).
Linsey Hall has a knack for giving readers an adventure, fantasy, magical, romance with suspense, history all through. But tis the twists and turns that keep you in your seat and glued to the page. Linsey is writes a smooth, detailed yet easy to read story. Iv’e been a follower since her Mythean Archana series and have seen her mature as a writer with every book. This is an author who knows the story keeps the reader coming back. So grab a drink and comfortable seat, get ready to be immersed into the world of Trial By Magic!
I was given an ARC but the Review is mine and freely done.
November 7, 2018
Nix is my favorite of the Triumvirate. She’s as snarky as Del and Cass, but in a more whimsical and silly way, and she has a kind of sensitivity and wholesomeness to her that’s unusual in urban fantasy. Since these books can get a bit formulaic, it’s nice to see something refreshing. I also like the fact that her sensitivity in no way stops her from being a smart, tough badass. Ares and Nix are also my favorite couple. It feels like the author has become more comfortable with writing mild romance in each character’s sub-series. So Cass and Aidan didn’t have a lot of chemistry, Roarke and Dell had more, and Nix and Ares have the most.
The trials plot is handled well. Sure, it’s just an excuse to put Nix through hell and have Ares forced to choose between following his people’s rules or helping her, but the tension is real. The ending is never in doubt, but new and interesting things are learned along the way. Nix is forced to draw harder on her powers than ever before. She and Ares are drawn closer together. She even makes a few new friends along the way.
We also get a little bit of a peek into Nix’s upcoming ‘task’. We don’t entirely know what it is, but she encounters more of the weird cult members and gets a few pointers from some goddesses of fate. (That’s right–we’re cranking up the epic level!) Of course I’m going to have to hang on for the ride and see where Nix’s fate takes her!
Original review posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2018/11/r...
The trials plot is handled well. Sure, it’s just an excuse to put Nix through hell and have Ares forced to choose between following his people’s rules or helping her, but the tension is real. The ending is never in doubt, but new and interesting things are learned along the way. Nix is forced to draw harder on her powers than ever before. She and Ares are drawn closer together. She even makes a few new friends along the way.
We also get a little bit of a peek into Nix’s upcoming ‘task’. We don’t entirely know what it is, but she encounters more of the weird cult members and gets a few pointers from some goddesses of fate. (That’s right–we’re cranking up the epic level!) Of course I’m going to have to hang on for the ride and see where Nix’s fate takes her!
Original review posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2018/11/r...
July 15, 2017
If you looking for something adult in nature,deadly and dangerous than there is nothing in these parts to sink your teeth into.This book albeit being good is drawn in colorful sophisticated crayons that should appeal to younger to middle adults who enjoy bright sun hued colors but if you have an old soul that delights in darker detail than you would need to look much further than this PG rated book.
I like my heroines like my heroes to have a tinge of a psychopath created into their psyche.I don't need constant reminders almost every chapter about how emphatic they are in battle and how averse they are to killing when in mortal danger.
Nix is a fun heroine and almost a carbon copy of Del and Cassie who have preceded her in their quest to survive.Their story is fun to follow if you into rainbow dyed underwear,pink dragons and magically swirly eyes.Everyone is icily beautiful and the villains are only differentiated by their wrongness and nasty smell.
Though I much prefer the horror of Baba Yaga and her 3 legged house hunting through a frost covered Russian landscape than candy fest but since I have read the other books in the series maybe I do have a sweet tooth after all.
I like my heroines like my heroes to have a tinge of a psychopath created into their psyche.I don't need constant reminders almost every chapter about how emphatic they are in battle and how averse they are to killing when in mortal danger.
Nix is a fun heroine and almost a carbon copy of Del and Cassie who have preceded her in their quest to survive.Their story is fun to follow if you into rainbow dyed underwear,pink dragons and magically swirly eyes.Everyone is icily beautiful and the villains are only differentiated by their wrongness and nasty smell.
Though I much prefer the horror of Baba Yaga and her 3 legged house hunting through a frost covered Russian landscape than candy fest but since I have read the other books in the series maybe I do have a sweet tooth after all.
November 27, 2017
Was für eine vielversprechende Serie! Auch diesen zweiten Teil der Reihe um Nix habe ich innerhalb eines Tages verschlungen. Es ist eindeutig Suchtpotential zu erkennen.
Auch ist es sehr angenehm, dass diese Reihe um Nix, obwohl das die dritte in der "großen Serie" ist, auch gut ohne Vorwissen zu lesen ist. Einige Charaktere kennt man wohl aus den vorherigen Geschichten um Cass und Del, aber diese werden trotzdem kurz eingeführt und spielen eher eine neben geordnete Rolle. Auch die Ereignisse der vorherigen Reihen werden nicht gespoilert. Zwar wird darauf hingewiesen ( à la Del and Cass already fullfilled their tasks/ their part of the prophecy), aber das war es auch schon. Das gefällt mir insbesondere besser im Vergleich zu der Dragon Born - Series von Ella Summer, wo es notwendig ist, alle Bücher in der Erscheinungsreihenfolge zu lesen.
Ah und nebenbei erwähnt: die "author's note" ist klasse! Es ist super interessant, etwas über die Überlegungen im Hintergrund bzw. im Vorfeld zu lesen.
Ich freue mich auf jeden Fall schon auf den nächsten Band, den ich wahrscheinlich morgen schon zuende gelesen habe.
Auch ist es sehr angenehm, dass diese Reihe um Nix, obwohl das die dritte in der "großen Serie" ist, auch gut ohne Vorwissen zu lesen ist. Einige Charaktere kennt man wohl aus den vorherigen Geschichten um Cass und Del, aber diese werden trotzdem kurz eingeführt und spielen eher eine neben geordnete Rolle. Auch die Ereignisse der vorherigen Reihen werden nicht gespoilert. Zwar wird darauf hingewiesen ( à la Del and Cass already fullfilled their tasks/ their part of the prophecy), aber das war es auch schon. Das gefällt mir insbesondere besser im Vergleich zu der Dragon Born - Series von Ella Summer, wo es notwendig ist, alle Bücher in der Erscheinungsreihenfolge zu lesen.
Ah und nebenbei erwähnt: die "author's note" ist klasse! Es ist super interessant, etwas über die Überlegungen im Hintergrund bzw. im Vorfeld zu lesen.
Ich freue mich auf jeden Fall schon auf den nächsten Band, den ich wahrscheinlich morgen schon zuende gelesen habe.
July 5, 2017
Trial by Magic by Linsey Hall is Book 2 of the Dragon's Gift: The Protector Series.
I can’t say this enough-Ms. Hall’s writing and books are absolutely magical! I highly recommend her to all PNR and fantasy readers alike. You will be delighted with your newest addiction and honestly that’s what her stories become...addicting!
This is a young adult, urban/fantasy paranormal series that is absolutely amazing and while it may be geared towards young adults, this series will most definitely appeal to one and all.
I love the fact that no time is wasted in any of her stories. Each one picks up right where the last left off and hits the pavement running. Such a blast of energy, loads of actions, twists and turns that suck you right into Ms. Hall’s written world that is filled to the brim with all kinds of paranormal beings. Original and unique, Ms. Hall is one wickedly talented writer!
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
I can’t say this enough-Ms. Hall’s writing and books are absolutely magical! I highly recommend her to all PNR and fantasy readers alike. You will be delighted with your newest addiction and honestly that’s what her stories become...addicting!
This is a young adult, urban/fantasy paranormal series that is absolutely amazing and while it may be geared towards young adults, this series will most definitely appeal to one and all.
I love the fact that no time is wasted in any of her stories. Each one picks up right where the last left off and hits the pavement running. Such a blast of energy, loads of actions, twists and turns that suck you right into Ms. Hall’s written world that is filled to the brim with all kinds of paranormal beings. Original and unique, Ms. Hall is one wickedly talented writer!
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
July 8, 2017
AWESOME contemporary magical fantasy that has so many unusual creatures, critters and supernatural magical beings. Each of the 3 'sister's has a unique task. Thus far Cass and Dell have fulfilled their parts of the dangerous tasks each is required. As each of these magical 'firesouls' gained more magic their tasks got harder and scarier. During Nix's task she has been paired up with a hunk. Ares is a hybrid vampire who has captured, challenged and now is sweet on Nix. Each of Ms. Hall's books have a HFN and hopefully upon completion of Nix's trials maybe she'll get the HEA. This is action packed with surprising twists and turns. I learned when I started at the beginning of Cass's story not to start reading these books late in the day because I'd be up into the wee hours of the morning still reading (1:30am now). The story is exciting and I look forward to the next book in this series. I received a complementary copy of this book and chose to write a review.
July 21, 2017
There is some really interesting things going on like the dragon troves, but the characters feel so unrealistic to me at times. Why is the Enforcer so interested in Nix? Why is he suddenly supporting her more than the Vampire Court he is a part of? Also, plot points don't make sense like in the first book when they *spoilers!* tracked down a secret society to find out why another character was killed... why the heck is the society ok with Nix tracking down the killer? Why do they trust her? And she swore to have the secret die with the killer, but then learns the secret and proceeds to tell all her friends! *end spoilers*
There were other inconsistencies that made it much less enjoyable despite some interesting world building. I also didn't realize that there were 2 other series before this about her "sisters" so there was some I probably missed because of that. Going to go back to try one of those out in hopes it might be better.
There were other inconsistencies that made it much less enjoyable despite some interesting world building. I also didn't realize that there were 2 other series before this about her "sisters" so there was some I probably missed because of that. Going to go back to try one of those out in hopes it might be better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2021
Nix has to prove herself to the vampire council or she will die in prison
Ñix and Àres seek to prove her innocence to the vampire council by agreeing to take the challenges they present to become their Ally. By willingly taking the challenges she proves to them that she is willing to be a trustworthy Ally and an advocate. Well she is doing this her friends are trying to locate where the beakers have been taken. These magical beakers are important according to fate that she rescued them and discern what kind of magic they have. She is so busy with the challenges that she has to defer to them until her friends figure out where the beakers are. The beakers are in a magical compound so guarded and so protected that it's going to take all kinds of special weapons to combat and get into the compound. Well they're doing recon Claire is captured and they have to up their timetable to rescue her.
Ñix and Àres seek to prove her innocence to the vampire council by agreeing to take the challenges they present to become their Ally. By willingly taking the challenges she proves to them that she is willing to be a trustworthy Ally and an advocate. Well she is doing this her friends are trying to locate where the beakers have been taken. These magical beakers are important according to fate that she rescued them and discern what kind of magic they have. She is so busy with the challenges that she has to defer to them until her friends figure out where the beakers are. The beakers are in a magical compound so guarded and so protected that it's going to take all kinds of special weapons to combat and get into the compound. Well they're doing recon Claire is captured and they have to up their timetable to rescue her.
July 4, 2017
Nix's story seems to be just as interesting as Cass' and Del's. This book had a lot of excitement. While most of it was focused on the trials she had to complete, her big story moved along a bit towards the end. It was nice to see her really flex her magic muscles, and to see more of her possible relationship with Ares. I kind of wish that we learned a little bit more of her secrets in this book, but it's at least nice to know that there is something big coming. This villain seems like he could as evil as they come. There is also a lot of power within the group now, so I feel like they are ready for this kind of opponent. I can't wait to see what is next! I received a complimentary copy of this book.
July 11, 2017
Trial by Magic by Linsey Hall.
5 out of 5 stars.
This second book in The Protector volume of this series has Nix performing the trials for the Vampire Court. But can she trust them, especially when they seem so willing to sacrifice innocent lives for their own good?
Nix has been learning how to control her new magic but is it all going to be enough, especially when she's still discovering the gifts she already has, and how to use them.
This is another brilliant installment to the series and I'd recommend it to everyone interested in magical adventures.
5 out of 5 stars.
This second book in The Protector volume of this series has Nix performing the trials for the Vampire Court. But can she trust them, especially when they seem so willing to sacrifice innocent lives for their own good?
Nix has been learning how to control her new magic but is it all going to be enough, especially when she's still discovering the gifts she already has, and how to use them.
This is another brilliant installment to the series and I'd recommend it to everyone interested in magical adventures.
July 16, 2017
Brilliantly written, this series has such an addictive quality
I've rated this book with five star's as the journey through this series has been so captivating ...... As always at the end of every book Lindsey has you left, teetering, on a huge series of cliff hangers..
The only downside is the waiting process for the next book, with all the questions mulling a round in your mind, luckily though thee author is kind and never leaves you waiting long before the next part of the journey continues....... I've grown so fond of Del, Cass and Nix that I will be bereft when this amazing adventure ends. Well done Lindsay Hall on another wonderful and imaginative book
I've rated this book with five star's as the journey through this series has been so captivating ...... As always at the end of every book Lindsey has you left, teetering, on a huge series of cliff hangers..
The only downside is the waiting process for the next book, with all the questions mulling a round in your mind, luckily though thee author is kind and never leaves you waiting long before the next part of the journey continues....... I've grown so fond of Del, Cass and Nix that I will be bereft when this amazing adventure ends. Well done Lindsay Hall on another wonderful and imaginative book
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