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Dragon's Gift: The Protector #5
Forged in Magic
Save the dragons, save the magic. The world as we know it is at risk. My enemy Drakon plans to take all the world’s magic for himself, and he’s close to succeeding. Worse, he’ll kill the last living dragons to do it. Then the world will be at his mercy. According to fate, it’s up to me to stop him.Fortunately, I know what Drakon plans. He needs the Stone of Synnaroe for his spell, so I have to beat him to it. It’s race against time, and I need to get there first. I’ll go through the realms of the gods—even hell itself, if that’s what it takes—because if I fail, it’s over. And we’re all doomed.Forged in Magic is a fast-paced fantasy thriller with a kick-butt heroine, a tough hero, and magic that will knock your socks off.
165 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2017
1496 people are currently reading
751 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 148 reviews
September 28, 2017
It's been an awesome journey but this series finally comes to an end. The three FireSouls that have oh so bravely tackled everything thrown at them have been incredibly entertaining to read about. Whether it's Cass, Nix or Dell there's no doubt that they have not only survived so much but gained even more along the way. Now as Nix begins her assault on arch nemesis Drakon it's clear that only by accepting herself exactly as she truly is can the world hope to save and protect its magic . Although one things for sure and that is the simple fact that these three amazing characters have made friends and allies along the way who will always choose to stand firm beside them.
This was a worthy conclusion to the series with answers and even the possibility of perhaps more to be revealed about those who live in and around Magics Bend. Yes we get a resolution, a feeling of closure if you will but it's the authors imaginative ideas based on history and ancient legends that help make these books so addictive. Vivid, colourful characters placed in mortal peril but always with a large slice of fun and of course warmth and even a touch of romance.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This was a worthy conclusion to the series with answers and even the possibility of perhaps more to be revealed about those who live in and around Magics Bend. Yes we get a resolution, a feeling of closure if you will but it's the authors imaginative ideas based on history and ancient legends that help make these books so addictive. Vivid, colourful characters placed in mortal peril but always with a large slice of fun and of course warmth and even a touch of romance.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
June 26, 2018
I really, really like these books. So much that I read 15 of them in 8 days. Crazy. #obsessivemuch
Nice conclusion to the overall story of The Triumvirate, three magical "sisters" given separate missions to save the world. Loved the distinct characters, loved that though they sometimes went rogue they more often recognized they needed help and loved that the romances were not instant even though the attractions were. Oh, and for those that complain how people seldom seem to need to eat or sleep in these types of stories, there was plenty of both. ;)
Hall has another set after this featuring supporting characters but I'm going to take a break and read some other things first. And, watch some TV and maybe see some of my friends instead of holing up in my house to compulsively read.
Nice conclusion to the overall story of The Triumvirate, three magical "sisters" given separate missions to save the world. Loved the distinct characters, loved that though they sometimes went rogue they more often recognized they needed help and loved that the romances were not instant even though the attractions were. Oh, and for those that complain how people seldom seem to need to eat or sleep in these types of stories, there was plenty of both. ;)
Hall has another set after this featuring supporting characters but I'm going to take a break and read some other things first. And, watch some TV and maybe see some of my friends instead of holing up in my house to compulsively read.
September 30, 2017
All three of these women fought for something in their loves valiantly throughout this whole series and I loved them all but Nix's story is the most amazing finale. There is a pair of buggy riding girls that I would love to read more on as well as a couple blood witch's. Amazing series!
December 31, 2018
Such an apt title, this one really was forged in magic in so many ways and as always Nix, Del and Cass were there to save the day even though Nix played the seriously major role everyone else had a huge part in this adventure as well and what an adventure it was.
January 22, 2019
I am giving this a solid 4 stars for the whole series. Fast paced and fun. I read through them quickly and wanted to jump in right away to the next one. I had a lot of fun and I am going to go read the other two series in this world. And read the next series because I did have some favorites introduced to me.
March 6, 2018
Dragon's Gift
Self sacrifice leads to a reward and Nix did it.... with her family, friends and colleagues. Great ending to a good series: Happy reading!
Self sacrifice leads to a reward and Nix did it.... with her family, friends and colleagues. Great ending to a good series: Happy reading!
August 12, 2021
i think adding greek myth and gods to this story was the worst idea that the author could come up. she butchered it. clearly, she didn't make a through research about it. for example, styx river and Acheron river was basically the same river but she thought it was a different river. I don't know, for me, i hate the part where Nix faced trials by the greek gods so much, it just didn't fit in the story and it ruined my image to the greek gods.
the ending was kind of epic, albeit similar like the previous series and a bit anticlimactic but better than the previous 2 series. there was lots of things that could make this book read-worthy but some details were just too off that it ruined everything. sad.
nix and Ares went to vampire realm to visit the Illuminarium. after some trial to proof her worthiness (acid sea, snake bridge, and pulling out swords from rock, Arthur style), they meet the council. they said that the stone contained gods' power and it had a twin somewhere in Greece, protected by ancient Greek gods and mythical creatures and Nix had to beat drakon from taking it. they returned back to magic's bend to reconcile with nix's sisters. Roarke told them that Drakon hired all the evil demons on Earth (old news) and decided that cass and/or (this book was very clear) Del would go to Norway to find the dragons while nix and ares go to Greece.
they met Pan and he said that Drakon was already there. the stone was in the Temple of Athena, there was 2 ways in. drakon took the slower one because he was unworthy while nix and ares took the 'worthy part' going through realms of different gods. Pan also gave them a mirror that indicated Drakon's position. if the mirror went black and there was lightning, it means Drakon already got the stone. first, they went to Hephaestus' realm, they were attacked by dense flames then Ares had to make a metal art as an offering. Hephaestus let them passed but he caused rockfall that almost crushed them.
then they went out on a beach, met a sea turtle named Nestor who said that they couldn't cross the sea without something from his sea. he demanded them to find a larger shell for him, then they could use his old shell. so they took his shell but when Nestor moved to the new one, Hermes came to claim the old one. but Nestor kindly offered to take them across. in the middle of the ocean, they were attacked by albatros birds and Nestor had to dive in. they made it across and Nestor left them because they entered the Hades realm.
there, they were attacked by moving bones tree and bats until Persephone found them and she gave them a choice, either to fight Medusa or Empusa. Nix said that Medusa used to be human so she chose to fight Empusa who was more dangerous. Persephone admired her choice and offered them the replica of Hades' Helm of invisibility so they could get through Empusa swiftly and left the helm to Cerberus' pup. they tried to cross the river Acheron (which she thought was not Styx) with her own boat, and it sunk so they had to swim across (🙄🙄🙄). they went out of Hades' realm and bath on a pool and confessing love for each other when Hermes came.
he said he wanted to help because they passed his test and gave them his winged sandals. they were now in Artemis's realm and she hated trespasser so they had to fly quickly to her temple to give her a tribute. Nix was nicked with an arrow (they should've been dead, Artemis was the goddess of archery after all and she would not miss), arrived to her temple and she offered to help Artemis find anything she wanted after she defeated Drakon and signed it with her blood. Artemis quickly brought her to the Tower (lol, they said Temple before, now it's tower) of Athena.
they saw drakon nearing the tower and she called jeff to help her. she stabbed him but in the heart but he didn't die. then they fell (struck by lighting? who knows, this book was perfectly clear) but drakon climbed the tower (so now it was a tower) and managed to get the stone (pan said that the gods would protect the stone fiercely, bullshit). then Athena (useless in this story) came and said drakon could only be killed with beak of phoenix, whatever that means and told her to stop doubting and start believing in herself and lend her a charm of wisdom. then she took them back to magic's bend.
they reconciled with the others. Cass said that they visited the highest mountain in Norway but it was a ski resort and an old lady came to them, saying that 'what you're looking for is not here'. so Nix used the charm from Athena and suddenly it became clear that the highest mountain was somewhere north of Norway, in an island named Svalbard (this is stupid, the charm supposed to gave her wisdom, not tell her stuff. wisdom can be gained when you already knew things but don't really understand it 🙄🙄🙄). Nix asked Dr. Garisso about the island but he only said "oh, you will know when you were there, the magic recognize you," and call it useful.
she returned back to P&P to find everyone (the usual + mordaca, aerdeca, bree and ana) there, ready to help. they all teleported to Svalbard and when they stood over the ocean, suddenly a boat of god made of water appeared out of nowhere. it took them across (i don't even know across what) and when the boat stop, a cloaked figures with giant polar bears welcomed them (eerily) and took them to the castles of the primordial gods. there was 3 of them and they said they let drakon passed 3 days ago. nix got mad but one of the god didn't appreciate her rudeness so he blasted her but the others stopped him.
they said they didn't care what happened to the world, human didn't even appreciate them anymore so they didn't care if drakon stole magic. but they (at least 2 of them) would let them pass if Nix was proven worthy. of course she did and they were going out of the castle when one of the god attacked them. ana built a shield while bree threw a sonic boom so powerful it could fly backwards and knocked the god out. but it also knocked both of them out too so Mordeca took them to a healer and they continued the journey. and of course, they were chased by giant mammoth made of ice that couldn't be killed so nix asked for Jeff and the Pukis help and del summoned her hellhounds to be dogsleds.
they arrived to the mountain where the dragon was and there was already hundreds of demons army there. they decided to wake the dragons to fight with them and came in from inside the mountain. unfortunately, they couldn't wake up the dragons at all and to make things worse, Cass, Del, Aidan, and Roarke got abducted by the demons with transport charm and before the others got kidnapped to, Ares and Mordoca took nix, claire, and connor back. nix was mad of course but they planned to gather armies again and returned in the next 10 hours. nix got a dream from the Elesius' forest spirit, telling her that to wake the dragon, she needed to give them life and be one with them.
after receiving this dream, idiot nix thought that she shouldn't sacrifice the others and sacrificed herself instead so she bullied ares into taking her back so she could giving up her life magic to wake up the dragons. but the others were already in front of her shop, ready for battle and after some convincing, she relented. they teleported back to svalbard, and nix tried to immediately saved her sisters but this time, her sword couldn't cut through it (this idiot bitch tried many times to cut through it even though it was obviously sending her jolt of electricity). when she finally realized her mistake, she called for jeff and went inside the dome of smoke like in Elesius and tried to wake up the dragon, but she had to give up everything, even her life to wake them up.
but (unfortunately), she was reborn as a phoenix and the battle begun (and ended in a blink of an eye). nix could hurt drakon now with her beak and he tried to escape but the dragon, the goddesses of fates and nix's friends all blocked his way so he had no choice but to fight her and nix managed to kill him. the rest of the demons were sent back to hell with a portal that roarke made (strangely, the mages that fought on drakon's side just disappeared with no mentions) and even more cliche, nix could turn back to human form.
they partied to celebrate their victory but then, a man from the order of magica came, saying that the order summoned them. the next day they went to their headquarter, their friends and family also came as backup, but turned out, the order already knew what they were (a firesoul) and pardoned them (instead of thanking them) for what they had done. the end.
the ending was kind of epic, albeit similar like the previous series and a bit anticlimactic but better than the previous 2 series. there was lots of things that could make this book read-worthy but some details were just too off that it ruined everything. sad.
nix and Ares went to vampire realm to visit the Illuminarium. after some trial to proof her worthiness (acid sea, snake bridge, and pulling out swords from rock, Arthur style), they meet the council. they said that the stone contained gods' power and it had a twin somewhere in Greece, protected by ancient Greek gods and mythical creatures and Nix had to beat drakon from taking it. they returned back to magic's bend to reconcile with nix's sisters. Roarke told them that Drakon hired all the evil demons on Earth (old news) and decided that cass and/or (this book was very clear) Del would go to Norway to find the dragons while nix and ares go to Greece.
they met Pan and he said that Drakon was already there. the stone was in the Temple of Athena, there was 2 ways in. drakon took the slower one because he was unworthy while nix and ares took the 'worthy part' going through realms of different gods. Pan also gave them a mirror that indicated Drakon's position. if the mirror went black and there was lightning, it means Drakon already got the stone. first, they went to Hephaestus' realm, they were attacked by dense flames then Ares had to make a metal art as an offering. Hephaestus let them passed but he caused rockfall that almost crushed them.
then they went out on a beach, met a sea turtle named Nestor who said that they couldn't cross the sea without something from his sea. he demanded them to find a larger shell for him, then they could use his old shell. so they took his shell but when Nestor moved to the new one, Hermes came to claim the old one. but Nestor kindly offered to take them across. in the middle of the ocean, they were attacked by albatros birds and Nestor had to dive in. they made it across and Nestor left them because they entered the Hades realm.
there, they were attacked by moving bones tree and bats until Persephone found them and she gave them a choice, either to fight Medusa or Empusa. Nix said that Medusa used to be human so she chose to fight Empusa who was more dangerous. Persephone admired her choice and offered them the replica of Hades' Helm of invisibility so they could get through Empusa swiftly and left the helm to Cerberus' pup. they tried to cross the river Acheron (which she thought was not Styx) with her own boat, and it sunk so they had to swim across (🙄🙄🙄). they went out of Hades' realm and bath on a pool and confessing love for each other when Hermes came.
he said he wanted to help because they passed his test and gave them his winged sandals. they were now in Artemis's realm and she hated trespasser so they had to fly quickly to her temple to give her a tribute. Nix was nicked with an arrow (they should've been dead, Artemis was the goddess of archery after all and she would not miss), arrived to her temple and she offered to help Artemis find anything she wanted after she defeated Drakon and signed it with her blood. Artemis quickly brought her to the Tower (lol, they said Temple before, now it's tower) of Athena.
they saw drakon nearing the tower and she called jeff to help her. she stabbed him but in the heart but he didn't die. then they fell (struck by lighting? who knows, this book was perfectly clear) but drakon climbed the tower (so now it was a tower) and managed to get the stone (pan said that the gods would protect the stone fiercely, bullshit). then Athena (useless in this story) came and said drakon could only be killed with beak of phoenix, whatever that means and told her to stop doubting and start believing in herself and lend her a charm of wisdom. then she took them back to magic's bend.
they reconciled with the others. Cass said that they visited the highest mountain in Norway but it was a ski resort and an old lady came to them, saying that 'what you're looking for is not here'. so Nix used the charm from Athena and suddenly it became clear that the highest mountain was somewhere north of Norway, in an island named Svalbard (this is stupid, the charm supposed to gave her wisdom, not tell her stuff. wisdom can be gained when you already knew things but don't really understand it 🙄🙄🙄). Nix asked Dr. Garisso about the island but he only said "oh, you will know when you were there, the magic recognize you," and call it useful.
she returned back to P&P to find everyone (the usual + mordaca, aerdeca, bree and ana) there, ready to help. they all teleported to Svalbard and when they stood over the ocean, suddenly a boat of god made of water appeared out of nowhere. it took them across (i don't even know across what) and when the boat stop, a cloaked figures with giant polar bears welcomed them (eerily) and took them to the castles of the primordial gods. there was 3 of them and they said they let drakon passed 3 days ago. nix got mad but one of the god didn't appreciate her rudeness so he blasted her but the others stopped him.
they said they didn't care what happened to the world, human didn't even appreciate them anymore so they didn't care if drakon stole magic. but they (at least 2 of them) would let them pass if Nix was proven worthy. of course she did and they were going out of the castle when one of the god attacked them. ana built a shield while bree threw a sonic boom so powerful it could fly backwards and knocked the god out. but it also knocked both of them out too so Mordeca took them to a healer and they continued the journey. and of course, they were chased by giant mammoth made of ice that couldn't be killed so nix asked for Jeff and the Pukis help and del summoned her hellhounds to be dogsleds.
they arrived to the mountain where the dragon was and there was already hundreds of demons army there. they decided to wake the dragons to fight with them and came in from inside the mountain. unfortunately, they couldn't wake up the dragons at all and to make things worse, Cass, Del, Aidan, and Roarke got abducted by the demons with transport charm and before the others got kidnapped to, Ares and Mordoca took nix, claire, and connor back. nix was mad of course but they planned to gather armies again and returned in the next 10 hours. nix got a dream from the Elesius' forest spirit, telling her that to wake the dragon, she needed to give them life and be one with them.
after receiving this dream, idiot nix thought that she shouldn't sacrifice the others and sacrificed herself instead so she bullied ares into taking her back so she could giving up her life magic to wake up the dragons. but the others were already in front of her shop, ready for battle and after some convincing, she relented. they teleported back to svalbard, and nix tried to immediately saved her sisters but this time, her sword couldn't cut through it (this idiot bitch tried many times to cut through it even though it was obviously sending her jolt of electricity). when she finally realized her mistake, she called for jeff and went inside the dome of smoke like in Elesius and tried to wake up the dragon, but she had to give up everything, even her life to wake them up.
but (unfortunately), she was reborn as a phoenix and the battle begun (and ended in a blink of an eye). nix could hurt drakon now with her beak and he tried to escape but the dragon, the goddesses of fates and nix's friends all blocked his way so he had no choice but to fight her and nix managed to kill him. the rest of the demons were sent back to hell with a portal that roarke made (strangely, the mages that fought on drakon's side just disappeared with no mentions) and even more cliche, nix could turn back to human form.
they partied to celebrate their victory but then, a man from the order of magica came, saying that the order summoned them. the next day they went to their headquarter, their friends and family also came as backup, but turned out, the order already knew what they were (a firesoul) and pardoned them (instead of thanking them) for what they had done. the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2017
'Forged in Magic" is the conclusion to the Protector series. In this finale, Nix and the gang forge a much needed alliance to bring down and destroy the evil Draken. He is on a mission of magical dominance by stealing the powers of dragons if he can find them.
As Nix and Ares become closer, he is afraid only of one thing, losing her. However, Nix receives a message in a dream that the only solution to defeating Draken may very well be her death. However, what she doesn't realize is how loved and valued she is among her family and friends.
Ms. Hall is a master when it comes to action and battle scenes. She knows all too well how to entrance the reader in the moment. However, where this read failed for me was in the romance department. It was essential in getting the reader invested in the characters and the world but Ms. Hall just writes minimalistic/ cursory relationships. She could take a few lessons from Jeanienne Frost or the writing pair of Ilona Andrews. It would certainly improve one of the weakest links in her books in my opinion. Overall, I enjoyed this series even though I felt it became very formulaic in the end. I would still recommend it to those who are not familiar with this series.
As Nix and Ares become closer, he is afraid only of one thing, losing her. However, Nix receives a message in a dream that the only solution to defeating Draken may very well be her death. However, what she doesn't realize is how loved and valued she is among her family and friends.
Ms. Hall is a master when it comes to action and battle scenes. She knows all too well how to entrance the reader in the moment. However, where this read failed for me was in the romance department. It was essential in getting the reader invested in the characters and the world but Ms. Hall just writes minimalistic/ cursory relationships. She could take a few lessons from Jeanienne Frost or the writing pair of Ilona Andrews. It would certainly improve one of the weakest links in her books in my opinion. Overall, I enjoyed this series even though I felt it became very formulaic in the end. I would still recommend it to those who are not familiar with this series.
October 10, 2017
Forged in Magic (Dragon's Gift: The Protector Book 5)
Linsey Hall
Linsey, you wrapped this up in fine fashion! BUT WOW, I did not really forsee some things that happened! As a fan of your books starting with the Mythean Arcana all I can say is….keep writing them and I’ll keep reading!
We left the deirfiur, Nix, Cas, Del and their friends at a crossroads. They knew Drakon had to be stopped. They knew It would be Nix that would ultimately face him, but geez….Drakon is one mean, evil SOB! He seemed to be a step ahead, all the time!
The book opens with Nix and Ares in the Vampire Realm. Nix facing another challenge, this one to open the Illuminarium, the Vampire equivalent of a “Library of Knowledge”. The challenge is brutal, Ares has to heal her afterward. I will tell you this book is chock full of challenges, each one very hard, or even impossible, that Nix and others need to complete to move forward. Many characters from previous books make an appearance. As in her other series, Linsey uses Mythology all the way through, here the Old Gods play a key role. Which ones you ask? Well, I’m not telling!! You need to pick up a copy to find out!!
The Dragons Gift series comes to its final end with the Triumvirate meeting its ultimate foe. But many others assist in the epic battle. I will tell you It happens off of Norway and yes there are dragons involved!
As with every Linsey, story I highly suggest you only pick this up, if you have time to read it…..ALL of it!. It kind of sucks you in and won’t let go till THE END!!!!
Linsey Hall
Linsey, you wrapped this up in fine fashion! BUT WOW, I did not really forsee some things that happened! As a fan of your books starting with the Mythean Arcana all I can say is….keep writing them and I’ll keep reading!
We left the deirfiur, Nix, Cas, Del and their friends at a crossroads. They knew Drakon had to be stopped. They knew It would be Nix that would ultimately face him, but geez….Drakon is one mean, evil SOB! He seemed to be a step ahead, all the time!
The book opens with Nix and Ares in the Vampire Realm. Nix facing another challenge, this one to open the Illuminarium, the Vampire equivalent of a “Library of Knowledge”. The challenge is brutal, Ares has to heal her afterward. I will tell you this book is chock full of challenges, each one very hard, or even impossible, that Nix and others need to complete to move forward. Many characters from previous books make an appearance. As in her other series, Linsey uses Mythology all the way through, here the Old Gods play a key role. Which ones you ask? Well, I’m not telling!! You need to pick up a copy to find out!!
The Dragons Gift series comes to its final end with the Triumvirate meeting its ultimate foe. But many others assist in the epic battle. I will tell you It happens off of Norway and yes there are dragons involved!
As with every Linsey, story I highly suggest you only pick this up, if you have time to read it…..ALL of it!. It kind of sucks you in and won’t let go till THE END!!!!
September 29, 2017
I loved loved loved Nixs' story. I got to see her grow in strength and character. She always seemed like she was more of a side character to support her sisters whom were the strong ones. In this series she came into her own and got to become one of the main characters. Her trials were all about proving her worthiness; but I think it was actually teaching her to believe in herself and what she was truly capable of. She, of the three, did the most growing. I think that is what makes her so special to me. As with another series I just finished, I miss this one already. I hope when we start reading Ana and Brees' stories we will get more insite into these 3 sisters as to what happens to them now that they have saved the world, perhaps a novella if their characters do not carry over to the new series. Like did they marry their guys? Do they continue to run their shop and live upstairs or do they transport from where they live if married. I can see them separating in this sense knowing they would still be together and such.
August 20, 2018
Forged in Magic is the last book in Linsey Hall's third Dragon's Gift series. Nix must hunt down the Stone of Synnaroe from the realm belonging to the Greek gods. If Drakon gets to it first, then he will have what he needs to kill the last of the dragons. It's all hands on deck as Nix must face down Drakon on last time.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this series. Just because the Firesoul books are done, doesn't mean that this is the end. The next book to check out is Undercover Magic (Dragon's Gift: The Valkyrie Book 1).
Overall, I enjoyed reading this series. Just because the Firesoul books are done, doesn't mean that this is the end. The next book to check out is Undercover Magic (Dragon's Gift: The Valkyrie Book 1).
September 30, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Ahhhhh! So many mixed emotions over here. One one hand I loved the ending of this trifecta trilogy series, thing but on other... why is it over?! Linsey has not disappointed with the ending of this book, it was just as amazing as all of the rest and I don't feel like the ending was rushed or unfinished, which is a feeling I sometimes get with series that go on for a bit (not that this series is long or overdone, or anything like that, just that it's a 3 part series with 5? books in each part... just to clarify). Not the case here! After such an amazing lead up to the epic final battle... (I'm not going to put any spoilers in this review) it was worth the wait.
I do now have very high hopes that we are going to get a spin off with Bree and Ana (I hope those are the correct names - I'm too lazy to double check and it's been a few days since I finished the series...) They are awesome characters and so intriguing. I know a few fans of Linsey's work have asked the possibility of a spin off and Linsey said it was possible - yay! I feel like the girls may have featured more heavily in Nix's final book as a way of setting us for their future books. I could just be reading to much into it, or maybe I'm just really hopeful but I really want this world to continue and they would be awesome characters to explore and find out more about. Plus I really hope Nix, Del, Cass, and their mates will make an appearance, and we get to see more of them! (I'm not asking too much am I?)
I have adored this entire series from start to finish, and there has not been a single book that I haven't like - which NEVER happens! Now I'm just holding out hope that there will be more to come and I get to see all the characters I know and love again as I don't want to leave this world... yet? (I actually mean never but for the author's sake...)
Ahhhhh! So many mixed emotions over here. One one hand I loved the ending of this trifecta trilogy series, thing but on other... why is it over?! Linsey has not disappointed with the ending of this book, it was just as amazing as all of the rest and I don't feel like the ending was rushed or unfinished, which is a feeling I sometimes get with series that go on for a bit (not that this series is long or overdone, or anything like that, just that it's a 3 part series with 5? books in each part... just to clarify). Not the case here! After such an amazing lead up to the epic final battle... (I'm not going to put any spoilers in this review) it was worth the wait.
I do now have very high hopes that we are going to get a spin off with Bree and Ana (I hope those are the correct names - I'm too lazy to double check and it's been a few days since I finished the series...) They are awesome characters and so intriguing. I know a few fans of Linsey's work have asked the possibility of a spin off and Linsey said it was possible - yay! I feel like the girls may have featured more heavily in Nix's final book as a way of setting us for their future books. I could just be reading to much into it, or maybe I'm just really hopeful but I really want this world to continue and they would be awesome characters to explore and find out more about. Plus I really hope Nix, Del, Cass, and their mates will make an appearance, and we get to see more of them! (I'm not asking too much am I?)
I have adored this entire series from start to finish, and there has not been a single book that I haven't like - which NEVER happens! Now I'm just holding out hope that there will be more to come and I get to see all the characters I know and love again as I don't want to leave this world... yet? (I actually mean never but for the author's sake...)
November 10, 2018
On the one hand, Nix’s having to constantly prove herself worthy of various entities via trials and challenges is getting repetitive. On the other hand, it’s a great way to keep the action quotient up without having to resort solely to fights (even though there are plenty of those, too). It also goes nicely with the Indiana Jones-ish vibe Hall has going on and fits in with the notion of prophecies and fate. So honestly, I’ll roll with it.
There are a ton of fight scenes, some quite long. The final battle is extensive and complex, with some fantastic teamwork on the part of the good guys. I’ve always loved the fact that the characters in these books need to work with others, but it never undercuts their own agency and strength.
The characters are great, although I will say Drakon never truly rises above the level of force of nature. On the other hand, though, maybe that’s another thing that just fits right into the prophecies/fate/larger-than-life thing the author has going on. We get to see more of Ares and Nix together, although everything remains PG-rated (things happen behind closed doors). It’s also becoming clear that we’ll see more of Ana and Bree in further books, as the Triumvirate can’t help noting the similarities between the young girls and themselves.
Forged in Magic is my favorite of the Dragon’s Gift novels so far, which is entirely appropriate given that it’s the culmination of the Triumvirate’s story arc. There might have even been a few tears shed toward the end…
Original review posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2018/11/r...
There are a ton of fight scenes, some quite long. The final battle is extensive and complex, with some fantastic teamwork on the part of the good guys. I’ve always loved the fact that the characters in these books need to work with others, but it never undercuts their own agency and strength.
The characters are great, although I will say Drakon never truly rises above the level of force of nature. On the other hand, though, maybe that’s another thing that just fits right into the prophecies/fate/larger-than-life thing the author has going on. We get to see more of Ares and Nix together, although everything remains PG-rated (things happen behind closed doors). It’s also becoming clear that we’ll see more of Ana and Bree in further books, as the Triumvirate can’t help noting the similarities between the young girls and themselves.
Forged in Magic is my favorite of the Dragon’s Gift novels so far, which is entirely appropriate given that it’s the culmination of the Triumvirate’s story arc. There might have even been a few tears shed toward the end…
Original review posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2018/11/r...
January 9, 2020
Not as good of an ending as I was expecting since midway I was so excited about it. It had so much potential but it felt like a lot of forced action. Also, I know this is nixs book and the other 2 had their turn but it felt like there was a lot of "chosen one" talks or random situations that only she could do, which happened in the other books but at least it'd explain that only a phantom could or that Cass had to bc she had a particular power and either the author got lazy or just favours nix I dunno.
If it's a trio who have diff challenges then it kinda sounded like nix was wee more important even tho I know that's not what the author is trying to convey.
It's hard not to go there tho when important ppl approach them and nix is all like hi I'm here or hi I came for this etc like you're all there, introduce yourselves lol.
She's my fave badass too so far so I dunno, it irked me tho for some reason but anyway the stories kinda all start feeling similar and that no matter how big of a fight it sounds to be, if not everyone is present, then it's not yet the big battle so I hope apart from this triumvirate story, the rest of the books are laid out differently.
If it's a trio who have diff challenges then it kinda sounded like nix was wee more important even tho I know that's not what the author is trying to convey.
It's hard not to go there tho when important ppl approach them and nix is all like hi I'm here or hi I came for this etc like you're all there, introduce yourselves lol.
She's my fave badass too so far so I dunno, it irked me tho for some reason but anyway the stories kinda all start feeling similar and that no matter how big of a fight it sounds to be, if not everyone is present, then it's not yet the big battle so I hope apart from this triumvirate story, the rest of the books are laid out differently.
September 27, 2017
Here we are at Nix’s last book, and the last book in the sisters’ series. Nix is after the last piece of the puzzle to defeat Drakon, and she must prove herself worthy. Added to her stress is the prophesy that Ares will lose what he loves most: Nix. Will she defeat Drakon or will he defeat Nix and company? I am so very sad to let these characters go! I don’t want to say too much and spoil things, but the book did have the usual great action, great plot, and great fun we’ve come to expect from Ms. Hall in this series. The characters stayed true to themselves, and the epic showdown was just that, epic. Nix has remained my favorite protagonist, but it’s a pretty close one; they are all wonderful. I couldn’t have envisioned a more perfect ending. This last installment was a perfect end to a perfect series. I have become a lifelong fan of this author and will read practically anything she writes. If you haven’t started this series yet, please do. It is so worth it! Highly recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
October 25, 2017
These authors that write series you can't put down, need to think about the reader.
These authors never think about us poor, easily addicted readers. They write these series or books that you just can't stop reading because the next sentence, or paragraph, or page is going to change what you thought for sure was going to happen. After all we have to eat sometime, take a shower and change clothes(that is if we can remember when we did that last) and sleep. And so many other little things that I know are important, but at the if you remember them, really are stupid things that can be taken care of later. So the electricity goes off, I've got a flashlight and candles. Oh my goodness, I forgot about the family. See LINSEY HALL is another one of those authors to put on the danger list!
Now I have to run and get another one of her series. See I have already forgot that list of dangerous authors. Thank you Linsey Hall for helping me forget all my problems for a little while and for taking me outside of my world and into another one.
These authors never think about us poor, easily addicted readers. They write these series or books that you just can't stop reading because the next sentence, or paragraph, or page is going to change what you thought for sure was going to happen. After all we have to eat sometime, take a shower and change clothes(that is if we can remember when we did that last) and sleep. And so many other little things that I know are important, but at the if you remember them, really are stupid things that can be taken care of later. So the electricity goes off, I've got a flashlight and candles. Oh my goodness, I forgot about the family. See LINSEY HALL is another one of those authors to put on the danger list!
Now I have to run and get another one of her series. See I have already forgot that list of dangerous authors. Thank you Linsey Hall for helping me forget all my problems for a little while and for taking me outside of my world and into another one.
April 7, 2018
Excellent series conclusion
I love these books. The author had me laughing with both descriptions used and messed up priorities of the characters! (Yeah, I died but at least I’m not stuck as an animal and better yet, I transformed with my clothes still on! To paraphrase;) )
Hopefully I’ll find time to go back and give them proper reviews though I doubt I will.
I accidentally started with the first two books of Nix, then went back and started with Cass. When I reached Nix again, I reread her books and they were just as good, if not better, on the second read and just as amusing!
I love that the girls are similar enough to believe their history as sisters, but different enough to know who’s talking-each having a unique voice in her books. That’s a skill that’s somewhat challenging for a lot of authors I’ve read; some never mastering or even nodding at it.
I will read anything this author writes!
I love these books. The author had me laughing with both descriptions used and messed up priorities of the characters! (Yeah, I died but at least I’m not stuck as an animal and better yet, I transformed with my clothes still on! To paraphrase;) )
Hopefully I’ll find time to go back and give them proper reviews though I doubt I will.
I accidentally started with the first two books of Nix, then went back and started with Cass. When I reached Nix again, I reread her books and they were just as good, if not better, on the second read and just as amusing!
I love that the girls are similar enough to believe their history as sisters, but different enough to know who’s talking-each having a unique voice in her books. That’s a skill that’s somewhat challenging for a lot of authors I’ve read; some never mastering or even nodding at it.
I will read anything this author writes!
September 24, 2017
Oustandingly, awesome fantasy story that completes the Dragon's Gift set. Nix has had to prove herself because she has trials that she must accomplish without her supernatural powers. Some of the supernatural firesoul's know they can help Nix with her quest. I believe this is the last book in this wonderful series that draws the reader into the story. There is a blend of contemporary, fantasy and romance. Ares is the enforcer of the vampire realm and has fallen for Nix during her ordeals. Nix has to prove her worth each time when she crosses into each of the gods realms. I enjoy that the author brings all the characters that we've come to know and love into the last battle of good over evil. I received a complementary copy of this book and chose to write a review. I look forward to reading future books by Ms. Hall as she has become one of my favorite authors.
May 1, 2018
An outstanding finale to the end of the Triumvirate with the final tasks of this 5 books series laying solely on Nix to complete (with assistance from her "sisters", friends and other companions. But if you are reading this; please do start with: Ancient Magic (Dragon's Gift: The Huntress #1). Be aware that when reading this series (which is outstanding by the way), each book does not list the other books in the series or which is to have been read first. I went to Linsey Hall's website and determined this. The Huntress is first; the Seeker and finally the Protector. (all books are 5 books or also known as a Pentalogy). As stated; this is a definite book series that I recommend to read and I hope there are more adventures for this group of sisters.
**Did I forget to mention that there are Demons, Vampires, Hell Hounds and much more to read within the confines of these books.
**Did I forget to mention that there are Demons, Vampires, Hell Hounds and much more to read within the confines of these books.
October 4, 2017
The end???
This book is the conclusion to trails that all three fire souls faced. I can't believe it ended. I hope Ms. Hall will still continue to write about this world and all the characters we've come to love and maybe expand on other characters in the book, especially the blood magic sisters. I can't spell their names to save my life so I have to write blood magic sisters since you can't hear me say their names. The sisters definitely intrigue me along with Bree and Ana and what type of magic they have. I hope that we get to read about Del, Cass, Nix, Roarke, Aiden, and Ares in future books, because I'm not ready to let them all go. You created characters and a world we've all come to love and we thank you for it.
This book is the conclusion to trails that all three fire souls faced. I can't believe it ended. I hope Ms. Hall will still continue to write about this world and all the characters we've come to love and maybe expand on other characters in the book, especially the blood magic sisters. I can't spell their names to save my life so I have to write blood magic sisters since you can't hear me say their names. The sisters definitely intrigue me along with Bree and Ana and what type of magic they have. I hope that we get to read about Del, Cass, Nix, Roarke, Aiden, and Ares in future books, because I'm not ready to let them all go. You created characters and a world we've all come to love and we thank you for it.
January 18, 2018
Loved the series
I originally downloaded the first book to this series because it was free and wanted to try a different genre. I'm so glad that I did as I loved the series i was hooked from book 1. I just couldn't put it down i had to find out what happened next. I keep saying to myself just one more page, just one more. I was able to loose myself in the story with the highs and the lows. Didn't want the series to end. I would highly recommend this series and the author to anyone who wants a easy read (compared to what I usually read) and loved to be taken away on an adventure. Will be reading the rest of her books and be keeping an eye out for future books with readily eagerness!!
I originally downloaded the first book to this series because it was free and wanted to try a different genre. I'm so glad that I did as I loved the series i was hooked from book 1. I just couldn't put it down i had to find out what happened next. I keep saying to myself just one more page, just one more. I was able to loose myself in the story with the highs and the lows. Didn't want the series to end. I would highly recommend this series and the author to anyone who wants a easy read (compared to what I usually read) and loved to be taken away on an adventure. Will be reading the rest of her books and be keeping an eye out for future books with readily eagerness!!
March 21, 2023
Good
Nix’s story comes to its epic conclusion, as the Triumvirate and Drakon finally go head to head. It’s not without its journeys, nor without danger- and there are several prophecies that have to come too…
From Oregon to Norway, this book galloped through various realms, leaving the reader breathless at the speed at which everything happened. Fortunately, the fast pace is equaled by the excitement, and since we’ve been given ever so many clues along the way, predictability is merely a matter of figuring those out!
It’s been an enjoyable journey though, and an an entertaining one.
Star of this book is “dragons” of which we see a few, and it’s nicely rounded out by a happy ending.
An enthralling urban fantasy for UF fans that enjoy a fast paced and action packed read.
Nix’s story comes to its epic conclusion, as the Triumvirate and Drakon finally go head to head. It’s not without its journeys, nor without danger- and there are several prophecies that have to come too…
From Oregon to Norway, this book galloped through various realms, leaving the reader breathless at the speed at which everything happened. Fortunately, the fast pace is equaled by the excitement, and since we’ve been given ever so many clues along the way, predictability is merely a matter of figuring those out!
It’s been an enjoyable journey though, and an an entertaining one.
Star of this book is “dragons” of which we see a few, and it’s nicely rounded out by a happy ending.
An enthralling urban fantasy for UF fans that enjoy a fast paced and action packed read.
October 13, 2017
Forged in Magic by Linsey Hall is Book 5 of the Dragon's Gift: The Protector Series.
Exceptional! Each read is better than the previous and that says much as each is superb! Ms. Hall does such an amazing job of putting together wonderful reads that will engage you from the very first page.
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. Highly recommended to PNR and fantasy readers alike.
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
Exceptional! Each read is better than the previous and that says much as each is superb! Ms. Hall does such an amazing job of putting together wonderful reads that will engage you from the very first page.
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. Highly recommended to PNR and fantasy readers alike.
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
June 9, 2021
Maybe reading too many of Hall’s series in a row is the reason I found much of this novel wanting to just get to the end, and not in a good way. While the details were different and included a couple twists it was true to the hero formula Hall uses. Also having read DG: The Amazon series before this one some of the Greek gods interaction didn’t quite jive with Rowan’s. The ending had an original twist that saved the novel. I could have hoped for a bit more depth in Nix and Ares relationship but I applaud that Hall’s male her’s don’t let their egos get in the way. The meeting with the Order of Magica felt anticlimactic.
September 27, 2017
In this final installment of The Dragon's Gift series, Nix begins the final leg of her journey to fulfill her destiny. With Ares and her friends and family by her side, she is ready to face the most difficult of faceoffs. Finding herself worthy of this task has always difficult. With every battle, she has fought to this point she has overcome great challenges. Now she must prove to everyone that their faith on her has not been in vain. She has too many people depending on her and too much to lose. And no sacrifice is too great for her to make.
I received an Advanced Reviewers Copy from the author for voluntary review consideration.
I received an Advanced Reviewers Copy from the author for voluntary review consideration.
September 29, 2017
Brilliant. Amazing.
Wow is all I can say. Loved seeing pond flower and the other hellhounds back. Along side so many folk from all the dragon series. Only thing is ! What now ?! Will there be more adventures for Nix, Cass, and Del and their familiars and partners and dear friends? I hope so please 🙏 Linsey Hall is an exceptional writer, powerful imagination and able to blend fact, mythology, archeology, magic, paranormal an fiction roles into one. Will definitely be reading more of her books. BB. Xx
Wow is all I can say. Loved seeing pond flower and the other hellhounds back. Along side so many folk from all the dragon series. Only thing is ! What now ?! Will there be more adventures for Nix, Cass, and Del and their familiars and partners and dear friends? I hope so please 🙏 Linsey Hall is an exceptional writer, powerful imagination and able to blend fact, mythology, archeology, magic, paranormal an fiction roles into one. Will definitely be reading more of her books. BB. Xx
October 1, 2017
This is what everything has been building up to, and I LOVED LOVED LOVED it. It was bittersweet to finish this book, but I was so satisfied and happy with how Linsey Hall tied up the series. This book reminded me how far we have traveled in the Dragon's Gift books, and how may different friends we met along the way. Forged in Magic had me worried, laughing, and crying. I hope to see this group again. I feel like they are some of my best friends, and we've been through a lot. I received a complimentary copy of this book.
October 15, 2017
Simply the best, it is so hard to write a review without having " hugest spoiler alert "
IVs given a five star rating due to the entire books energy, so much tension, action, love interests....... I thoroughly enjoyed the ending ax much as the beginning of this book, I don't know if there will be a sixth, but with all the characters and new relationship's I truly hope so. Once again Lindsay Hall has delivered a great escape from the human realms to a world I would prefer to live in 5* is so well deserved, its really worth much more
IVs given a five star rating due to the entire books energy, so much tension, action, love interests....... I thoroughly enjoyed the ending ax much as the beginning of this book, I don't know if there will be a sixth, but with all the characters and new relationship's I truly hope so. Once again Lindsay Hall has delivered a great escape from the human realms to a world I would prefer to live in 5* is so well deserved, its really worth much more
December 17, 2021
Cass' journey made me fall in love with the show, Del's intrigued me, but Nix's was epic. I devoured the first 15 books in the series in a way I hadn't done in a long time, completely immersed in the world of Magic's Bend.
Forged in Magic was one of those books that you never want to end, but at the same time you can't put down. I turned the last page happy, certain that I will reread the books of this Triumvirate again and again and at the same time I feel sad to say goodbye for now to these sisters who have been my adventure companions for the last 3 weeks.
I'll miss you, see you later
Forged in Magic was one of those books that you never want to end, but at the same time you can't put down. I turned the last page happy, certain that I will reread the books of this Triumvirate again and again and at the same time I feel sad to say goodbye for now to these sisters who have been my adventure companions for the last 3 weeks.
I'll miss you, see you later
September 28, 2017
I'm so happy and so sad at the same time, It was a wild ride with Nix, Cass, and Dell. I'll miss them and this series. The ending couldn't have been better. Now I'm waiting patiently for Bree and Ana's story. Hopefully, since it's in the same universe, we can see some familiar faces. Overall Linsey, you've done an outstanding job in your storytelling and I can't wait for what's next! Valkyrie's maybe?
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