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The Dark Orchid #2
Magic of Lust
The rules of magic are changing, and she's going to make sure they work for her.
Mages are always men. Until her. They harvest the power of simple, primitive emotions. Until her. Jaeda is something new, and the best way to protect herself is to make sure the enemy doesn't have a clue.
That's going to be difficult with an Adevian mage about to take her town.
Shahwa has become her home. A haven of pirates, whores, and vagabonds, this desert oasis is a myth to many and a scourge to the rest, but there's something special about it. It's filled with compassion and made up of people who know exactly what it's like to belong nowhere else.
Now, it's her job to protect them. Hopefully, she won't have to do it alone, because the Jackal still hasn't shown up. She thought what they had was special. Now, she's not so sure, even though her heart says he'll still come. Her mind says she'll save herself either way.
But the Jackal promised her everything, and he meant it. One woman, three men, and they're all bound together by magic. He's not about to let that go.
Together, they have a chance to find happiness, yet before any of that is possible, they have to sort out their own issues. If they can figure out how to do that, then these four have something worth fighting for: each other.
Because what they have is more than just the magic of lust.
MAGIC OF LUST is a complete novel with a reverse harem, polyamorous storyline. It is intended for a mature audience due to the presence of consensual sex, group sex, M/M scenes, and plenty of vulgar language - as well as some potentially triggering situations since the bad guys don't always play nice. While this is a love story, it may not be right for all readers.
Mages are always men. Until her. They harvest the power of simple, primitive emotions. Until her. Jaeda is something new, and the best way to protect herself is to make sure the enemy doesn't have a clue.
That's going to be difficult with an Adevian mage about to take her town.
Shahwa has become her home. A haven of pirates, whores, and vagabonds, this desert oasis is a myth to many and a scourge to the rest, but there's something special about it. It's filled with compassion and made up of people who know exactly what it's like to belong nowhere else.
Now, it's her job to protect them. Hopefully, she won't have to do it alone, because the Jackal still hasn't shown up. She thought what they had was special. Now, she's not so sure, even though her heart says he'll still come. Her mind says she'll save herself either way.
But the Jackal promised her everything, and he meant it. One woman, three men, and they're all bound together by magic. He's not about to let that go.
Together, they have a chance to find happiness, yet before any of that is possible, they have to sort out their own issues. If they can figure out how to do that, then these four have something worth fighting for: each other.
Because what they have is more than just the magic of lust.
MAGIC OF LUST is a complete novel with a reverse harem, polyamorous storyline. It is intended for a mature audience due to the presence of consensual sex, group sex, M/M scenes, and plenty of vulgar language - as well as some potentially triggering situations since the bad guys don't always play nice. While this is a love story, it may not be right for all readers.
508 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 5, 2019
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656 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
November 5, 2020
Spoilers ahead
This picks up where book 1 left off, the foursome are separated with Treb and Xel trying to find Jade and Jade and Civan having discovered a new town and settled in but still waiting on the missing team members
What I liked
This author didn't waste words just to stretch things out. If you've seen my reviews you'll know I very rarely see the need for a trilogy or more books. It always consists of repetition and filler but NOT HERE! We get a couple of concise paragraphs to give an idea of certain things that took place before but this author actually moved forward with the plot! *gasp*
The relationship development, this book was mainly focused on the foursome as they navigated pass the damage of pass hurts and finally admitted their love
The plot, just enough action and just enough romance
A heroine of color!!! Not mixed, not light skinned black, not light coffee skin with light coloured eyes but a brown skin girl with braids!!! *swoon*
Jade, I really like this h(though I had some issues with her this round)
Treb and Civan. Civan especially was a surprise but a very pleasant one
What I didn't like
Xel- now at the beginning we know Treb continued sleeping with others during the separation and Xel most likely too. At one point Xel also had sex with OW here but later in the book the others mention being exclusive to the foursome only and Xel is struggling with that decision. Now I get it he's a mage of Lust and needs it but it came off as an excuse, he admitted to Jade that he missed the high he got from his previous activities and I was pissed off. They'd already admitted their love what the fuck else do you need dipshit!
Jade- now I like Jade overall but I hated that she kept making excuses and allowances for Xel, saying nobody expected him to change who he was and I call BS. He was supposed to fricken WANT to change the parts of his life that would damage his relationship! He never even suggested an alternative to his being with others and she was all u understanding and shit
There's now another mage, a young girl with a man twelve years or so older than her who claims to love her. He too was not celibate while loving and waiting for her to age up.
All these are based on my personal preference and lowered my rating a bit
The back and forth- it's like they had to convince Xel to even try to have a relationship with them
*********
*they were attacked so after the ILY none of them were with otners
Again this book is NOT SAFE, they have sex with others in the beginning but after the ILY no outsiders so far
*ETA- Xel and Treb have sex with others during a sex fest to help power up Xel as well as with others during the separation for the same reason. The h saw him but didn't really have a problem with it. Lots of drama takes place but after admitting their feelings no one else
This picks up where book 1 left off, the foursome are separated with Treb and Xel trying to find Jade and Jade and Civan having discovered a new town and settled in but still waiting on the missing team members
What I liked
This author didn't waste words just to stretch things out. If you've seen my reviews you'll know I very rarely see the need for a trilogy or more books. It always consists of repetition and filler but NOT HERE! We get a couple of concise paragraphs to give an idea of certain things that took place before but this author actually moved forward with the plot! *gasp*
The relationship development, this book was mainly focused on the foursome as they navigated pass the damage of pass hurts and finally admitted their love
The plot, just enough action and just enough romance
A heroine of color!!! Not mixed, not light skinned black, not light coffee skin with light coloured eyes but a brown skin girl with braids!!! *swoon*
Jade, I really like this h(though I had some issues with her this round)
Treb and Civan. Civan especially was a surprise but a very pleasant one
What I didn't like
Xel- now at the beginning we know Treb continued sleeping with others during the separation and Xel most likely too. At one point Xel also had sex with OW here but later in the book the others mention being exclusive to the foursome only and Xel is struggling with that decision. Now I get it he's a mage of Lust and needs it but it came off as an excuse, he admitted to Jade that he missed the high he got from his previous activities and I was pissed off. They'd already admitted their love what the fuck else do you need dipshit!
Jade- now I like Jade overall but I hated that she kept making excuses and allowances for Xel, saying nobody expected him to change who he was and I call BS. He was supposed to fricken WANT to change the parts of his life that would damage his relationship! He never even suggested an alternative to his being with others and she was all u understanding and shit
There's now another mage, a young girl with a man twelve years or so older than her who claims to love her. He too was not celibate while loving and waiting for her to age up.
All these are based on my personal preference and lowered my rating a bit
The back and forth- it's like they had to convince Xel to even try to have a relationship with them
*********
*they were attacked so after the ILY none of them were with otners
Again this book is NOT SAFE, they have sex with others in the beginning but after the ILY no outsiders so far
*ETA- Xel and Treb have sex with others during a sex fest to help power up Xel as well as with others during the separation for the same reason. The h saw him but didn't really have a problem with it. Lots of drama takes place but after admitting their feelings no one else
April 6, 2021
Although I’m still undecided on what I think of the first book, this one was a huge disappointment.
The story just dragged on and on, endless conversations about feelings and love made me roll my eyes and skim through pages. Boring!
The only part I liked was the action and the Mage fighting at the end.
The story just dragged on and on, endless conversations about feelings and love made me roll my eyes and skim through pages. Boring!
The only part I liked was the action and the Mage fighting at the end.
February 13, 2019
DNF. I run into this problem with Hadley's books where I feel like the characters spend 80% of the book talking about their feelings and asking if each other are okay. The first Dark Orchid book had a fantastuc pace. This one didn't hold me like the first, and I found myself skimming.
Great story. Super, super sexy. But I just couldn't get into it.
Great story. Super, super sexy. But I just couldn't get into it.
June 18, 2022
dnf 45%
I’m going to start be saying I loved this book. A lot. I thought it was beautifully written, if not the easiest read, and a stunning exploration of the power of intimacy and emotional vulnerability while trying to recover from a life time of trauma, and finding a new normal. The way the author used sex as a plot point, to bring the characters together and allow them to explore the different types of love in a medium so often frowned upon, was honestly brilliant, and the portrayal of a poly relationship where the characters all feel different types of love for each other was beautiful. So I guess you’re wondering why I gave this book 2 stars.
It’s kind of simple, actually. It’s all down to one little conversation that infuriated and disgusted me enough that I had to stop reading immediately. A conversation that’s a symptom of a much larger problem in literature, and the wider world in general. About half way through the book, Xelas and Civon have a conversation, where Civon essentially gives Xelas an ultimatum, saying that if he didn’t immediately start being emotionally vulnerable around his lovers, they would leave him, move on as a threesome, and eventually hate him.
Let me repeat that. The (potentially) most traumatised character in a book all about healing is told that he has to start doing the one thing he hasn’t been allowed to do for over a decade for fear of physical pain and the death of either him or his lovers, or risk abandonment. Are we seeing the problem here?
This happens far too often: the ‘strong’, ‘asshole’ guy (who is usually also the most powerful politically, physically, or magically in literature) isn’t given the same time and support to heal as others, and is expected to recover alone or face abandonment. It happens time and time again, and all it means is that the people who actually /need/ support don’t get it. In books, the author usually has them recover by themselves anyway, but it always makes for an unsatisfying, frustrating read.
In this book, it was particularly frustrating as Xelas has had so little plot time as it is, the plot thus far focussing primarily on Civan and Treb. And while I’m not belittling anyone’s struggles, the fact that the man whose worst issues involve mild internalised homophobia and feelings of sexual inadequacy got not only the most ‘important plot’ plot time, but also had the audacity to tell a man far more traumatised than him that he needed to ‘get over it’, despite he himself having been offered as much time as he needed to get to grips with his own sexuality, really doesn’t sit right with me.
I’m sure anyone else who’s read the books gets why I’m so furious that Xelas wasn’t given any actual support or anywhere near enough time to try and come to terms with his issues with emotional vulnerability and caring about the people he's with, and his need (particularly as a lust mage who literally needs sex to survive) to separate the act of sex from intimacy and emotion, so I won’t go into all the nuances behind his trauma and why being threatened with abandonment if he doesn’t ‘get over it’ is one of the most messed up things that could happen to him. I mean, this poor man was literally cured to never be allowed to feel things for the people he’s sleeping with, something which he needs to do because he’s a lust mage. He fell in love twice, but wasn’t allowed to sleep with either of them (which, while not the only way to have intimacy in a relationship, was kind of important for him), then forced himself to emotionally distance himself as far as possible from a third guy or risk the same happening again. No wonder he’s got issues with being vulnerable!!! And it would be pretty nice if the author actually respected that!!!
Maybe one day I’ll come back to this book, when I’m much less upset, but for now it’s going on my dnf, one star pile while I silently fume in the background.
I’m going to start be saying I loved this book. A lot. I thought it was beautifully written, if not the easiest read, and a stunning exploration of the power of intimacy and emotional vulnerability while trying to recover from a life time of trauma, and finding a new normal. The way the author used sex as a plot point, to bring the characters together and allow them to explore the different types of love in a medium so often frowned upon, was honestly brilliant, and the portrayal of a poly relationship where the characters all feel different types of love for each other was beautiful. So I guess you’re wondering why I gave this book 2 stars.
It’s kind of simple, actually. It’s all down to one little conversation that infuriated and disgusted me enough that I had to stop reading immediately. A conversation that’s a symptom of a much larger problem in literature, and the wider world in general. About half way through the book, Xelas and Civon have a conversation, where Civon essentially gives Xelas an ultimatum, saying that if he didn’t immediately start being emotionally vulnerable around his lovers, they would leave him, move on as a threesome, and eventually hate him.
Let me repeat that. The (potentially) most traumatised character in a book all about healing is told that he has to start doing the one thing he hasn’t been allowed to do for over a decade for fear of physical pain and the death of either him or his lovers, or risk abandonment. Are we seeing the problem here?
This happens far too often: the ‘strong’, ‘asshole’ guy (who is usually also the most powerful politically, physically, or magically in literature) isn’t given the same time and support to heal as others, and is expected to recover alone or face abandonment. It happens time and time again, and all it means is that the people who actually /need/ support don’t get it. In books, the author usually has them recover by themselves anyway, but it always makes for an unsatisfying, frustrating read.
In this book, it was particularly frustrating as Xelas has had so little plot time as it is, the plot thus far focussing primarily on Civan and Treb. And while I’m not belittling anyone’s struggles, the fact that the man whose worst issues involve mild internalised homophobia and feelings of sexual inadequacy got not only the most ‘important plot’ plot time, but also had the audacity to tell a man far more traumatised than him that he needed to ‘get over it’, despite he himself having been offered as much time as he needed to get to grips with his own sexuality, really doesn’t sit right with me.
I’m sure anyone else who’s read the books gets why I’m so furious that Xelas wasn’t given any actual support or anywhere near enough time to try and come to terms with his issues with emotional vulnerability and caring about the people he's with, and his need (particularly as a lust mage who literally needs sex to survive) to separate the act of sex from intimacy and emotion, so I won’t go into all the nuances behind his trauma and why being threatened with abandonment if he doesn’t ‘get over it’ is one of the most messed up things that could happen to him. I mean, this poor man was literally cured to never be allowed to feel things for the people he’s sleeping with, something which he needs to do because he’s a lust mage. He fell in love twice, but wasn’t allowed to sleep with either of them (which, while not the only way to have intimacy in a relationship, was kind of important for him), then forced himself to emotionally distance himself as far as possible from a third guy or risk the same happening again. No wonder he’s got issues with being vulnerable!!! And it would be pretty nice if the author actually respected that!!!
Maybe one day I’ll come back to this book, when I’m much less upset, but for now it’s going on my dnf, one star pile while I silently fume in the background.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2020
This book was AMAZING - just like book 1 was!! This has quickly become one of my favorite series by Auryn!!
Magic Of Lust picks up where we left off with Power of Lies - Jade & Civan having left Treb and Xel behind, and having made their home in Shahwa. Lot of new and interesting characters are introduced in this book, and I loved seeing Jade being the mage and protector.
One of the things I found really interesting was the new dynamics between our fabulous foursome - when they eventually meet up again. There's a few things that are new to them that they all need to get used to - Jade now being Xel's equal, Xel being free of the curse so he can actually be with Treb & Jade and start to actually get to know Civan, but also how to just be and have a home.
The main thing I absolutely loved about this book though, apart from the fantastic plot, is that while it has some very HOT scenes (be careful when reading in public! :p ); it's the relationships and the intimacy that I felt really got focused on and made me fall even more in love with these characters. They're all a little flawed, some have baggage, some have insecurities, and some are doing/feeling things for the very first time and feel out of their depth; but they all give the other three something the other two don't and really are the perfect compliment as a foursome. I absolutely love these four characters! <3
As usual, the plot was amazing, and I can't wait to see it all come to a head in the third and final book, and see how some of the new characters turn out.
I definitely 1000% recommend this book!!
Magic Of Lust picks up where we left off with Power of Lies - Jade & Civan having left Treb and Xel behind, and having made their home in Shahwa. Lot of new and interesting characters are introduced in this book, and I loved seeing Jade being the mage and protector.
One of the things I found really interesting was the new dynamics between our fabulous foursome - when they eventually meet up again. There's a few things that are new to them that they all need to get used to - Jade now being Xel's equal, Xel being free of the curse so he can actually be with Treb & Jade and start to actually get to know Civan, but also how to just be and have a home.
The main thing I absolutely loved about this book though, apart from the fantastic plot, is that while it has some very HOT scenes (be careful when reading in public! :p ); it's the relationships and the intimacy that I felt really got focused on and made me fall even more in love with these characters. They're all a little flawed, some have baggage, some have insecurities, and some are doing/feeling things for the very first time and feel out of their depth; but they all give the other three something the other two don't and really are the perfect compliment as a foursome. I absolutely love these four characters! <3
As usual, the plot was amazing, and I can't wait to see it all come to a head in the third and final book, and see how some of the new characters turn out.
I definitely 1000% recommend this book!!
February 11, 2019
Where the first book was "shock and awe", the second book was more along the lines of:" wham, bang thank...what's the status of our relationship again???" and all the better for it I felt.
Yes, we still had sex, war and magic, basically all the good stuff, but we saw a bit more relationship development, which I felt it needed....So I loved this book as well, and can't wait for the next one.
Yes, we still had sex, war and magic, basically all the good stuff, but we saw a bit more relationship development, which I felt it needed....So I loved this book as well, and can't wait for the next one.
January 13, 2023
Goddam.
I honestly liked the first one better, but this one was still so good.
I love how the relationships FINALLY developed and settled. This people have such a beautiful relationship, like this is the best Reverse Harem/ Polyamorous realtionship I have ever read.
The plot was good, and the world building is really interesting too.
I kinda felt like they repeated a lot of things in their speeches about love and stuff, but whatever it was heart warming.
I honestly liked the first one better, but this one was still so good.
I love how the relationships FINALLY developed and settled. This people have such a beautiful relationship, like this is the best Reverse Harem/ Polyamorous realtionship I have ever read.
The plot was good, and the world building is really interesting too.
I kinda felt like they repeated a lot of things in their speeches about love and stuff, but whatever it was heart warming.
July 8, 2023
DNF. Multiple reasons. The biggest reason is that I have had similar issues with the author’s other books. (I generally try to put up with it because she creates such unique stories. I have enjoyed this author’s ideas.) I can not recommend.
1) This author does have the tendency to have her characters hash out everything in their minds and yap about the same things OVER and OVER and over and over.... Could it be filler? At this point I would be remiss not to seriously consider the possibility. It’s there in all of her books and it is SIGNIFICANT. This book was the last straw for me.
2) Female MC that is also a prostitute seems to have a moral dilemma by the amount of dialogue dedicated to hand wringing over the propriety of their *special relationship*.
3) I like REVERSE harem. It’s fantasy. It’s hot. This is not really reverse harem. It is more accurately mmmf polyamory. If you are a female that enjoys a great deal of male on male activity, then you might appreciate this book, except that you will still have to endure reasons #1 and #2. The males also seem to talk excessively about their *special relationship*.
1) This author does have the tendency to have her characters hash out everything in their minds and yap about the same things OVER and OVER and over and over.... Could it be filler? At this point I would be remiss not to seriously consider the possibility. It’s there in all of her books and it is SIGNIFICANT. This book was the last straw for me.
2) Female MC that is also a prostitute seems to have a moral dilemma by the amount of dialogue dedicated to hand wringing over the propriety of their *special relationship*.
3) I like REVERSE harem. It’s fantasy. It’s hot. This is not really reverse harem. It is more accurately mmmf polyamory. If you are a female that enjoys a great deal of male on male activity, then you might appreciate this book, except that you will still have to endure reasons #1 and #2. The males also seem to talk excessively about their *special relationship*.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2019
Second book in the series. This one took a surprising turn, I thought. I’m not sure what I expected from the second book, but I was happily surprised at how the overall story grew. Jaeda was never one to shy away from conflict in the first book, but she definitely takes more of a stand in this book than the last. Maybe it’s because she has more to lose in this book than in the last and at the same time, just as much to gain.
There’s a lot of character and relationship development in this book. In this book, you see all of their relationships, not just Jaeda’s relationships with the men); they all develop, but in doing so, there’s the character growth that comes with it. This book saw quite a lot more action than the first, as well. I really enjoyed it, and I can’t wait to see where book 3 leads, based on the first two.
There’s a lot of character and relationship development in this book. In this book, you see all of their relationships, not just Jaeda’s relationships with the men); they all develop, but in doing so, there’s the character growth that comes with it. This book saw quite a lot more action than the first, as well. I really enjoyed it, and I can’t wait to see where book 3 leads, based on the first two.
July 6, 2021
A lot of talking.
Ok, the good thing about this series that there is no lack of m-m interactions in the harem. However. These interactions are so overly explained and discussed that it kills any mystery or romance for me.
I did start on the third book but at this point I’m skimming so much I’m not sure I’ll finish it.
Ok, the good thing about this series that there is no lack of m-m interactions in the harem. However. These interactions are so overly explained and discussed that it kills any mystery or romance for me.
I did start on the third book but at this point I’m skimming so much I’m not sure I’ll finish it.
February 11, 2019
Auryn wrote it
Anything that auryn writes I will always read because she has an amazing mind and she can literally make anything work but yet again dark orchid series is just fantastic you can never guess what she's going to come out with next... Read read read. Only warning is lots and lots and lots of sex
Anything that auryn writes I will always read because she has an amazing mind and she can literally make anything work but yet again dark orchid series is just fantastic you can never guess what she's going to come out with next... Read read read. Only warning is lots and lots and lots of sex
dnf
October 4, 2024I was honestly hoping for this book because even though I had issues with the first one, I see a great deal of potential in this universe.
Unfortunately, I DNF’d this book at 55% because the writing never improved. This could be because reading it started feeling tedious to me, but it was almost as if it got worse. To me, it reads as if it’s a Wattpad story. Stories where people are posting their work, and because of their lack of experience, end up giving too much detail or explanations where it isn’t needed. There was also an extreme usage of a certain unsavoury word and though I understand why that is, it started getting very irritating. All I could think of was how I wish there were at least more synonyms. After I got halfway through the book I just couldn’t take it anymore because I found myself dreading the next page.
Honestly, I can see people enjoying this book, especially because I actually find the story incredibly unique, it just wasn’t for me.
Unfortunately, I DNF’d this book at 55% because the writing never improved. This could be because reading it started feeling tedious to me, but it was almost as if it got worse. To me, it reads as if it’s a Wattpad story. Stories where people are posting their work, and because of their lack of experience, end up giving too much detail or explanations where it isn’t needed. There was also an extreme usage of a certain unsavoury word and though I understand why that is, it started getting very irritating. All I could think of was how I wish there were at least more synonyms. After I got halfway through the book I just couldn’t take it anymore because I found myself dreading the next page.
Honestly, I can see people enjoying this book, especially because I actually find the story incredibly unique, it just wasn’t for me.
August 25, 2019
A long read...Really can't say what I was reading....On to the last book...
November 4, 2019
Love these characters!
Ever read a book so good, you read slower towards the end, because you are dreading it being finished? That's every single book I have read by this author so far.
Hadley definitely knows how to recreate the subtle nuances of conversational interactions in a way that keeps you entertained and interested. Her stories are spellbinding.
This novel was the second in a trilogy about a girl who, at the start of the series is a whore in a town set in a world torn apart by a power hungry Sultan who controls the mages of the world. The mage that takes Jade's town is a sex mage. As everything progresses, we learn back stories of beloved characters and how not all are willing participants in the way things are. We see characters grow together and stand against seemingly impossible odds. Criminals, whores, pirates, and mages work together to keep their friends, families, and town together.
Ever read a book so good, you read slower towards the end, because you are dreading it being finished? That's every single book I have read by this author so far.
Hadley definitely knows how to recreate the subtle nuances of conversational interactions in a way that keeps you entertained and interested. Her stories are spellbinding.
This novel was the second in a trilogy about a girl who, at the start of the series is a whore in a town set in a world torn apart by a power hungry Sultan who controls the mages of the world. The mage that takes Jade's town is a sex mage. As everything progresses, we learn back stories of beloved characters and how not all are willing participants in the way things are. We see characters grow together and stand against seemingly impossible odds. Criminals, whores, pirates, and mages work together to keep their friends, families, and town together.
March 25, 2019
Couldnt put it down. Loved it
Great story
Would recomend to friends.
The characters are hot and sexy.
Lits of feelings and you just want to keep goi g to see what will happen next.
Great story
Would recomend to friends.
The characters are hot and sexy.
Lits of feelings and you just want to keep goi g to see what will happen next.
Want to read
August 6, 2019🎁 The Dark Orchid Trilogy is FREE on Amazon today (8/6/2019)! 🎁
February 25, 2019
Magic
Auryn Hadley does it again in Magic of Lust. Picking up shortly after book one left off, Jade and Xel faces many battles, both from outside and within. They want to be left alone to live in peace, but the other Mages and the Sultan won't allow it. Can two mages and their catalysts hold off the other mages? Can they learn to love and be happy? Find out in book two.
The world building is always superb in any Auryn Hadley book. She has a way of writing a world that feels very real. This time we stay in the area that Jade left to hide in at the end of book one. With vivid descriptions and beautifully written dialogue, you can easily walk along side the inhabitants.
The characters are interesting and complex. The core four of book one return but we also add in new characters. One of the characters has quite the surprise and I'm interested to see how that develops. While there are quite a few hot scenes between the group, there is also a lot of emotional development and attention to their relationship in this book. With the history that the characters have, it should come as no surprise that they are all a bit damaged and are trying to feel their way through the complicated and scary thing we call a relationship. Love is a powerful thing, both for its ability to raise us up and also for its power to obliterate us. It is a weapon in its own right and the group has to navigate the nuances and each other. I did feel like Xel especially had a lot of character growth in this book.
The plot is, as always, both complex and simple. Sounds like opposites, but Auryn manages to make a book full of layers into something that is easy to read. Be warned that she has a habit of leaving little tiny hints about future things hidden inside of her books. Things that you think nothing of until later. This is one of the reasons why I think Auryn is a wonderful storyteller. She has an ability to have layers upon layers, in both her characters and her plots, but instead of becoming a confusing mess, it becomes an intriguing story that I want to keep reading. I have a theory about where the next book is going, but you never know with Auryn so I'll just have to wait and see.
The editing is well done. I did not notice any errors in spelling, grammar or continuity.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this book. Book one does need to be read first if you have not done so. I would also recommend checking out Auryn's other books if you haven't already read them.
Auryn Hadley does it again in Magic of Lust. Picking up shortly after book one left off, Jade and Xel faces many battles, both from outside and within. They want to be left alone to live in peace, but the other Mages and the Sultan won't allow it. Can two mages and their catalysts hold off the other mages? Can they learn to love and be happy? Find out in book two.
The world building is always superb in any Auryn Hadley book. She has a way of writing a world that feels very real. This time we stay in the area that Jade left to hide in at the end of book one. With vivid descriptions and beautifully written dialogue, you can easily walk along side the inhabitants.
The characters are interesting and complex. The core four of book one return but we also add in new characters. One of the characters has quite the surprise and I'm interested to see how that develops. While there are quite a few hot scenes between the group, there is also a lot of emotional development and attention to their relationship in this book. With the history that the characters have, it should come as no surprise that they are all a bit damaged and are trying to feel their way through the complicated and scary thing we call a relationship. Love is a powerful thing, both for its ability to raise us up and also for its power to obliterate us. It is a weapon in its own right and the group has to navigate the nuances and each other. I did feel like Xel especially had a lot of character growth in this book.
The plot is, as always, both complex and simple. Sounds like opposites, but Auryn manages to make a book full of layers into something that is easy to read. Be warned that she has a habit of leaving little tiny hints about future things hidden inside of her books. Things that you think nothing of until later. This is one of the reasons why I think Auryn is a wonderful storyteller. She has an ability to have layers upon layers, in both her characters and her plots, but instead of becoming a confusing mess, it becomes an intriguing story that I want to keep reading. I have a theory about where the next book is going, but you never know with Auryn so I'll just have to wait and see.
The editing is well done. I did not notice any errors in spelling, grammar or continuity.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this book. Book one does need to be read first if you have not done so. I would also recommend checking out Auryn's other books if you haven't already read them.
February 9, 2019
Power unleashed
A trio of whores and a soldier find a haven in a town of pirates and prostitutes. But that haven is going to be threatened by other mages. Already The Lion has roared at the gates. The Spider can't be far behind. That means being prepared... but to fight or run? But what if there's a 3rd option? Because another mage is again at the gates and he says he wants to talk. Can he be trusted? Or is he working with The Spider?
Spoilers ahead!
This one is even better than the previous. Sequels that carry the same power are awesome. Sequels that knock the first one down and steal it's lunch money? Like finding a diamond in a bag of charcoal. The odds are there, but it's low lol. Auryn sets up these amazing worlds and then fills them with even more amazing characters. She can stun even the most jaded readers. I know the premise for these books make it sound like they're nothing but erotica. That couldn't be further from the truth. Yeah, ok, so there's sex. A lot of it. He's a sex mage, his catalyst is a whore. Jade's a whore. Civan? Bless his huge heart, he's figuring things out. But this series is more than just sexy times. There's an evil empire, magic, desert pirates with sand boats and everything, a rebellion, acceptance, emotions (other than the ones fueling the magic) and a lot of soul that goes into the world building. This is not a quick fluff read. This is a drop into a new world and disappear for a whole day read. Or a couple days for those that don't inhale books at a ridiculous rate like I do. So, don't let the subject matter run you off. Take a chance.
A trio of whores and a soldier find a haven in a town of pirates and prostitutes. But that haven is going to be threatened by other mages. Already The Lion has roared at the gates. The Spider can't be far behind. That means being prepared... but to fight or run? But what if there's a 3rd option? Because another mage is again at the gates and he says he wants to talk. Can he be trusted? Or is he working with The Spider?
Spoilers ahead!
This one is even better than the previous. Sequels that carry the same power are awesome. Sequels that knock the first one down and steal it's lunch money? Like finding a diamond in a bag of charcoal. The odds are there, but it's low lol. Auryn sets up these amazing worlds and then fills them with even more amazing characters. She can stun even the most jaded readers. I know the premise for these books make it sound like they're nothing but erotica. That couldn't be further from the truth. Yeah, ok, so there's sex. A lot of it. He's a sex mage, his catalyst is a whore. Jade's a whore. Civan? Bless his huge heart, he's figuring things out. But this series is more than just sexy times. There's an evil empire, magic, desert pirates with sand boats and everything, a rebellion, acceptance, emotions (other than the ones fueling the magic) and a lot of soul that goes into the world building. This is not a quick fluff read. This is a drop into a new world and disappear for a whole day read. Or a couple days for those that don't inhale books at a ridiculous rate like I do. So, don't let the subject matter run you off. Take a chance.
August 12, 2019
Building the bonds
So I’m giving this book the same star rating as I did the first book even though I liked this book a little bit less. This book brings back our core four, and now it’s all about finding there place. Finding there place within the relationship they are trying to build as well as finding there place in the world in general.
This book is really more about building the emotional bonds than it is about anything else. I think Xel and Civan are the ones who make the most growth in this book, Jade and Treb really has already come to terms with who they are and what they want in the last book, so this book is really about the other two. Civan has to really come to terms with being out about the fact that he is with two other men in addition to Jade. He has a lot of hang ups to work through. Xel is trying to find his place in the world. He’s not longer chained, caring is something he can do again, and honestly he’s got some serious insecurity with the relationships. I liked the emotional growth that happens in this book.
A lot of this book is also about home. The home these people found for themselves, how much the town rises up to support them. How it’s not about ruling but coming together and working for a common goal, a home. I have to say the war scenes really were well written, battle scenes are hard in general, add in magic and it’s easy to make things confusing, but I really felt like the written was good and it the battle scenes were just battle there was emotion connected to it too.
I’m not sure how many books this series is going to have, but I’m looking forward to book three and seeing how things turn out in the world, especially with the mages left standing.
So I’m giving this book the same star rating as I did the first book even though I liked this book a little bit less. This book brings back our core four, and now it’s all about finding there place. Finding there place within the relationship they are trying to build as well as finding there place in the world in general.
This book is really more about building the emotional bonds than it is about anything else. I think Xel and Civan are the ones who make the most growth in this book, Jade and Treb really has already come to terms with who they are and what they want in the last book, so this book is really about the other two. Civan has to really come to terms with being out about the fact that he is with two other men in addition to Jade. He has a lot of hang ups to work through. Xel is trying to find his place in the world. He’s not longer chained, caring is something he can do again, and honestly he’s got some serious insecurity with the relationships. I liked the emotional growth that happens in this book.
A lot of this book is also about home. The home these people found for themselves, how much the town rises up to support them. How it’s not about ruling but coming together and working for a common goal, a home. I have to say the war scenes really were well written, battle scenes are hard in general, add in magic and it’s easy to make things confusing, but I really felt like the written was good and it the battle scenes were just battle there was emotion connected to it too.
I’m not sure how many books this series is going to have, but I’m looking forward to book three and seeing how things turn out in the world, especially with the mages left standing.
March 21, 2019
Like a fine wine on a summer night
Magic of Lust picks up right where Power of Lies left off and it feels like the eye of a storm, where we get a little reprieve in between shitstorms. The Dark Orchid and the Jackal reunite and defend Shahwa against the attack of the Lion. After they manage to defeat him, they know that it will only be a matter of time before the other mages will find them and attack.
This book is all about character building and growing the relationship between our protagonists. It shows us how they fight TOGETHER to overcome the scars left from their pasts. Where book one focuses on Jade and the relationship with Xel and Treb, I feel like this book is more about including Civan in their family. Ooooh how I love Civan, he fits into their group perfectly. Loving and sweet, somewhat insecure, but dominant and demanding if needed.
Where I usually feel giddy and a bit naughty while reading a RH novel, this series so far makes me feel so much more. It feels like sipping from a glass of red wine on a perfect summer evening. In other words, it makes me feel like home. And I guess, in a way, this book is just about that! It is about how a home is tied to the people you love and care about rather than a certain location.
Ofcourse all of this is topped of with a very healthy dose of sexual content. Auryn Hadley knows how to create magic, that’s for sure! I can’t wait to read the conclusion of this epic love story, because it is unlike anything I’ve seen before.
This is a solid 5 star read for me.
Magic of Lust picks up right where Power of Lies left off and it feels like the eye of a storm, where we get a little reprieve in between shitstorms. The Dark Orchid and the Jackal reunite and defend Shahwa against the attack of the Lion. After they manage to defeat him, they know that it will only be a matter of time before the other mages will find them and attack.
This book is all about character building and growing the relationship between our protagonists. It shows us how they fight TOGETHER to overcome the scars left from their pasts. Where book one focuses on Jade and the relationship with Xel and Treb, I feel like this book is more about including Civan in their family. Ooooh how I love Civan, he fits into their group perfectly. Loving and sweet, somewhat insecure, but dominant and demanding if needed.
Where I usually feel giddy and a bit naughty while reading a RH novel, this series so far makes me feel so much more. It feels like sipping from a glass of red wine on a perfect summer evening. In other words, it makes me feel like home. And I guess, in a way, this book is just about that! It is about how a home is tied to the people you love and care about rather than a certain location.
Ofcourse all of this is topped of with a very healthy dose of sexual content. Auryn Hadley knows how to create magic, that’s for sure! I can’t wait to read the conclusion of this epic love story, because it is unlike anything I’ve seen before.
This is a solid 5 star read for me.
February 14, 2019
Damnit Auryn
I swear! I’ve fallen deep into so many books/stories by many different authors but Auryn Hadley...no words for her mastery! Withdrawal doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel reading anything she writes! The thought of trying to read anything else is impossible. I can’t get myself out of this world! I need more! These 4 have captured my heart but I think I might be a bit obsessed with Ci & Xel 🖤 If your on the fence about starting this series or continuing it...read it! Just, Trust Me!
I swear! I’ve fallen deep into so many books/stories by many different authors but Auryn Hadley...no words for her mastery! Withdrawal doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel reading anything she writes! The thought of trying to read anything else is impossible. I can’t get myself out of this world! I need more! These 4 have captured my heart but I think I might be a bit obsessed with Ci & Xel 🖤 If your on the fence about starting this series or continuing it...read it! Just, Trust Me!
April 28, 2019
It started out great and I was looking forward to seeing jades growth as a mage. As things progressed though, I feel that what started out as her journey has become more of a M/M/M romance with less plot and sex senes every other page.
I tend to binge read a series, so by book two I’m all shagged out. Book one had loads of sex in it but it was just more gripping. I was more engaged with the main character and wanted her to succeed, by book two I’m skipping over the sex scenes which only leaves me with a 100 page read. However well written this an example of too much of a good thing.
I tend to binge read a series, so by book two I’m all shagged out. Book one had loads of sex in it but it was just more gripping. I was more engaged with the main character and wanted her to succeed, by book two I’m skipping over the sex scenes which only leaves me with a 100 page read. However well written this an example of too much of a good thing.
February 9, 2019
Oh my!
Every page gets better and better! This world continues to grow and reveal amazing characters and depths to everyone that grab your attention and hold it all night! This is definitely a “just one more chapter....oh my god it’s 3am” book! The emotion and growth and change all the characters experience is humbling and flat out amazing to read! I can’t wait for the next book! Keep them coming!
Also if you haven’t read the gamer girls series by Auryn go now! So good!
Every page gets better and better! This world continues to grow and reveal amazing characters and depths to everyone that grab your attention and hold it all night! This is definitely a “just one more chapter....oh my god it’s 3am” book! The emotion and growth and change all the characters experience is humbling and flat out amazing to read! I can’t wait for the next book! Keep them coming!
Also if you haven’t read the gamer girls series by Auryn go now! So good!
March 16, 2020
Good Read, BUT
Here's my Succinct Review
Here's my Succinct Review
December 11, 2019
This wasn't as good of a read as the first book. This one fell into the annoying tropes that I extremely hate in books. It's mostly romance novels that do this. So I have to take long breaks to cleanse my head from this.
This review won't have plot spoilers. Its a rant.
PET PEEVES
1. I hate it when a book is filled with love declarations.
This review won't have plot spoilers. Its a rant.
PET PEEVES
1. I hate it when a book is filled with love declarations.
Just wait till the end of the book for that. Having it repeatedly throughout the book makes it trite and not special.
2. I hate manufactured relationship conflict.
It's not believable. These people all get along. Don't create drama between the characters to "spice things up" Don't create a random outsider for the purpose of drama. It's lazy and uncreative writing.
3. Stop with the therapy sessions in romantic relationships!
None!! None of these people are qualified to head shrink anyone! And yet book after book I've read these BS Filler therapy troupes. That's what they are. Advising someone and sharing a life experience to help them in their situation is understandable and realistic. But in romance books, it always comes off as amateur therapy. These scenes are tedious and I kept having micro-naps struggling to read them. I would love it if going forward new writers would STOP putting these in their books. You aren't clever and you are just copy-pasting this.
4. Repetitive
The "drama" was throughout this whole book. It didn't add to the story. It was almost like re-reading one of Laurell K. Hamilton books. I went on a frothing-at-the-mouth rant on one of her books too. I have since stopped reading her crap. Reading this book was giving me Ptsd flaskbacks from the times I struggled to read the Anita series hoping each new book would get back to why I loved the series. This book felt like a fanfiction of an Anita Blake book. It's very disappointing.
The first book was really good. This book constantly used to word Whore. Which didn't add to the plot. But it did add to the irritating therapy sessions. I know I read either in the previous book or the start of this one that that word wasn't going to be used anymore to describe the main characters.
5. Very little story. Lots of filler.
See above
What I wanted from this book was an adventure. It was set up perfectly for a siege at the very least.
But what we get is couples Drama. I was struggling to read this. I had to take breaks. I skimmed the sections when the character started in on their woe-is-me baggage.
On a positive note. I liked the magic system. I liked that we weren't getting this from a negative emotion mage. I don't think I could have handled reading about how pain made a mage feel and what was done to create pain. I like when magic was used and how much could be done with magic.
Even though Jade ends up being a Mary Sue, I will overlook that. This book ends with a real conflict. I want to see how it plays out in book 3. I am hoping that all their relationship and self-hate drama was sorted out in this book. Because there is no good reason to continue that baggage to book 3.
February 9, 2024
***4.5***
Book one in this series was my first five starred book as I kicked off 2024 so I was excited to dive back into this series after reading some palate cleansers in between. I wasn't disappointed when the prologue immediately pulled me back in. Ooh I am so happy to be back with the gang.
We pick up from book one with the lovers separated as Xel and Treb fight to hold off the Spider back in Kurkevy and Jade and Civan seek refuge and possibly a new start in Shahwa where Jade is getting to learn more about her new mage powers as they both wait and hope to be reunited with Xel and Treb.
I loved how beautifully the love development was. Fledgling love from the first book that blossoms over to book 2. I also appreciated the real struggle Civan had with understanding and accepting his sexuality. Like Treb he was raised to believe his attraction towards men was immoral and wrong. That his worth as a man depended on how many women he should be bedding because that's what society falsely demands. He had issues coming to terms with finding two hard, strong men just as desirable as his love for soft, curvaceous Jade and also being confused on how to love a man when he wasn't even sure how to love a woman due to his inexperience. Treb was the perfect person to help Civan talk through his emotions as he found his place amongst the group.
I appreciated that all 4 characters got their own love stories. The relationship development between Treb and Civan was different to Treb and Jade or Xel and Civan for example. This is a true MM, MMF, FMM etc and the centre point wasn't just Jade being the woman as they all had issues to sort through.
Book 2 seemed to have less action and concentrated on the group dynamics which I felt was done so well but that does not mean there is no action. There certainly is and the ending had me on the edge of my seat.
The introduction of Kevik had me side-eyeing the author and storyline, I won't spoil why but my face was scrunched up reading to begin with. You'll have to read for yourselves to find out why.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I can't wait to read the final book.
Book one in this series was my first five starred book as I kicked off 2024 so I was excited to dive back into this series after reading some palate cleansers in between. I wasn't disappointed when the prologue immediately pulled me back in. Ooh I am so happy to be back with the gang.
We pick up from book one with the lovers separated as Xel and Treb fight to hold off the Spider back in Kurkevy and Jade and Civan seek refuge and possibly a new start in Shahwa where Jade is getting to learn more about her new mage powers as they both wait and hope to be reunited with Xel and Treb.
I loved how beautifully the love development was. Fledgling love from the first book that blossoms over to book 2. I also appreciated the real struggle Civan had with understanding and accepting his sexuality. Like Treb he was raised to believe his attraction towards men was immoral and wrong. That his worth as a man depended on how many women he should be bedding because that's what society falsely demands. He had issues coming to terms with finding two hard, strong men just as desirable as his love for soft, curvaceous Jade and also being confused on how to love a man when he wasn't even sure how to love a woman due to his inexperience. Treb was the perfect person to help Civan talk through his emotions as he found his place amongst the group.
I appreciated that all 4 characters got their own love stories. The relationship development between Treb and Civan was different to Treb and Jade or Xel and Civan for example. This is a true MM, MMF, FMM etc and the centre point wasn't just Jade being the woman as they all had issues to sort through.
Book 2 seemed to have less action and concentrated on the group dynamics which I felt was done so well but that does not mean there is no action. There certainly is and the ending had me on the edge of my seat.
The introduction of Kevik had me side-eyeing the author and storyline, I won't spoil why but my face was scrunched up reading to begin with. You'll have to read for yourselves to find out why.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I can't wait to read the final book.
March 9, 2019
Not as intrigued but still interested
I think I’d give this book more a 3.5, than a 3. The book is well-written and this is a really interesting story. However, I don’t know, I just feel like the first book was much more compelling than this installment. Reading this book, I wasn’t as engaged as I was the second one. I can’t put my finger on why and I’m having a hard time putting my thoughts together on why this one just didn’t hit as hard. I will say that I really liked that Auryn expanded the POVs to include everyone. That really helps to add more dimension to the characters and understand what they are thinking and feeling. This book I felt like I could understand the logic behind Civan’s and Xel’s actions better since they were able to share their own thoughts instead them being mediated through Jade. My favorite character is Treb and I enjoyed anytime he got to share his POV.
This a really interesting story and that’s why I keep reading but I also feel that there are times when it’s kind of tricky to follow what the characters mean. In the dialogue I feel like they talk about these concepts in round about ways and you kind of have to deduce what they’re saying into more concrete terms. Hopefully someone reading this will kind of understand what I mean because I feel like I’m not saying it right. Like when they talk about fidelity, a concrete word we all understand, but they talk about in the most round-about way without ever saying it. This is a very specific example but hopefully someone gets the idea.
Also, it is just me or does the sexual banter sometimes feel out of place? Or they’ll be on the cusp of a really dire moment then two the characters will launch into dialogue that seems ill-timed?
Overall, I’m going to continue reading because this an interesting story, I just feel like this book didn’t intrigue me as much as the first one did.
I think I’d give this book more a 3.5, than a 3. The book is well-written and this is a really interesting story. However, I don’t know, I just feel like the first book was much more compelling than this installment. Reading this book, I wasn’t as engaged as I was the second one. I can’t put my finger on why and I’m having a hard time putting my thoughts together on why this one just didn’t hit as hard. I will say that I really liked that Auryn expanded the POVs to include everyone. That really helps to add more dimension to the characters and understand what they are thinking and feeling. This book I felt like I could understand the logic behind Civan’s and Xel’s actions better since they were able to share their own thoughts instead them being mediated through Jade. My favorite character is Treb and I enjoyed anytime he got to share his POV.
This a really interesting story and that’s why I keep reading but I also feel that there are times when it’s kind of tricky to follow what the characters mean. In the dialogue I feel like they talk about these concepts in round about ways and you kind of have to deduce what they’re saying into more concrete terms. Hopefully someone reading this will kind of understand what I mean because I feel like I’m not saying it right. Like when they talk about fidelity, a concrete word we all understand, but they talk about in the most round-about way without ever saying it. This is a very specific example but hopefully someone gets the idea.
Also, it is just me or does the sexual banter sometimes feel out of place? Or they’ll be on the cusp of a really dire moment then two the characters will launch into dialogue that seems ill-timed?
Overall, I’m going to continue reading because this an interesting story, I just feel like this book didn’t intrigue me as much as the first one did.
July 5, 2019
3.5⭐️
This was more of a 3.5 ⭐️ read for me, but I bumped it to 4⭐️ because I do like the characters and their relationship.
I think the issue for me was in the delivery and writing style. This is a RH about sex mages, so it isn't hard to imagine that the erotic content is quite varied and frequent. I have no problem with either of those things. I am a firm believer in universal love and acceptance of all peoples. However, at times, I felt like I was being given a force fed lesson on social tolerance. I can assure you, I would not have chosen a reverse harem series that clearly states m/m and m/m/f/m relations, if that were something that I would find offensive in any way. And while I can certainly understand the author's interest in trying to expand social acceptance of alternative lifestyles, I feel like it could have been done in a more subtle and less aggressive way.
That said, I really enjoy these characters. It's been a long road of self discovery and acceptance for each of them along the way. They've all had traumatic pasts that they're each trying to accept and move forward from in a positive way. And while they are using the love they feel for each other to help them accept who they truly are, I still feel like I'm missing the emotional connection. I'm reading about their emotional connection, but I'm not truly feeling it. Somehow, their relationship still feels a little superficial to me. And the books in this series are super long. I really would like to feel something deeper at this point. I feel like a lot of time has been spent on mundane details and side characters when it could have been spent either on deepening their connection with one another or on a more plot focused storyline. The magical plot did come into focus a lot more in this book than the first, but considering the length of this book, it still didn't get the attention it needed.
This was more of a 3.5 ⭐️ read for me, but I bumped it to 4⭐️ because I do like the characters and their relationship.
I think the issue for me was in the delivery and writing style. This is a RH about sex mages, so it isn't hard to imagine that the erotic content is quite varied and frequent. I have no problem with either of those things. I am a firm believer in universal love and acceptance of all peoples. However, at times, I felt like I was being given a force fed lesson on social tolerance. I can assure you, I would not have chosen a reverse harem series that clearly states m/m and m/m/f/m relations, if that were something that I would find offensive in any way. And while I can certainly understand the author's interest in trying to expand social acceptance of alternative lifestyles, I feel like it could have been done in a more subtle and less aggressive way.
That said, I really enjoy these characters. It's been a long road of self discovery and acceptance for each of them along the way. They've all had traumatic pasts that they're each trying to accept and move forward from in a positive way. And while they are using the love they feel for each other to help them accept who they truly are, I still feel like I'm missing the emotional connection. I'm reading about their emotional connection, but I'm not truly feeling it. Somehow, their relationship still feels a little superficial to me. And the books in this series are super long. I really would like to feel something deeper at this point. I feel like a lot of time has been spent on mundane details and side characters when it could have been spent either on deepening their connection with one another or on a more plot focused storyline. The magical plot did come into focus a lot more in this book than the first, but considering the length of this book, it still didn't get the attention it needed.
May 2, 2019
Tantalizing! As the four grow into their new roles with each other, personality traits long put aside by duty and survival emerge and are challenged. The character development moves along at a steady rate, driving the plot rather than the other way around.
As the Orchid, her Jackal, and their Catalysts-turned-mates prepare to defend and protect their home made of outlaws in the heart of the desert, sex gives way to something more important - how to fight other mages.
The second in the series is spellbinding and terrifying at times. How to be left alone when the Sultan likely wants you dead for going rogue and the other mages might benefit from your demise. Alliances are rocky things and mages do not line up with each other. Until now.
While I'm ready to devour the 3rd book, I sit and wonder - will the author cover what becomes of the magic when it's host no longer walks the mortal realm?
The only part that has ever had me on the fence and confused is the timelines - they mention over and over again the Gods died 20 years ago and that Mages came about only 10 years ago, yet the storyline implies a level of power that takes well over 10 years to achieve and states that the Jackal is aware of his powers and is enslaved by the Spider when he was but 15-16. Now he's in his early 30s (assuming he's a similar age to Treb) - this timeline changes. However, that's my ONLY complaint about the books.
Warning: this book contains a great deal of intermixed consensual sex. If you're not okay with that, have an open mind, or are just hoping for a wham-bam - move along. There's plot and characters to love.
As the Orchid, her Jackal, and their Catalysts-turned-mates prepare to defend and protect their home made of outlaws in the heart of the desert, sex gives way to something more important - how to fight other mages.
The second in the series is spellbinding and terrifying at times. How to be left alone when the Sultan likely wants you dead for going rogue and the other mages might benefit from your demise. Alliances are rocky things and mages do not line up with each other. Until now.
While I'm ready to devour the 3rd book, I sit and wonder - will the author cover what becomes of the magic when it's host no longer walks the mortal realm?
The only part that has ever had me on the fence and confused is the timelines - they mention over and over again the Gods died 20 years ago and that Mages came about only 10 years ago, yet the storyline implies a level of power that takes well over 10 years to achieve and states that the Jackal is aware of his powers and is enslaved by the Spider when he was but 15-16. Now he's in his early 30s (assuming he's a similar age to Treb) - this timeline changes. However, that's my ONLY complaint about the books.
Warning: this book contains a great deal of intermixed consensual sex. If you're not okay with that, have an open mind, or are just hoping for a wham-bam - move along. There's plot and characters to love.
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