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The Magicsmith #3
Faerie Forged
New world, new rules . . .
Alex is screwed. She’s due at the fae Court of Enchantment in less than twenty-four hours, but she’s not even close to being ready. Her job is hanging by a fraying thread. There’s a new vampire master in town. And several of her werewolf friends have been captured by the Paranatural Task Force.
She’s their best chance for release before the full moon reveals their secret, but the Lord of Enchantment is not someone you keep waiting—even when he happens to be your grandfather. All Alex can do is call in a favor, hope to hell she can survive the plots of the fae court, and hightail it home to salvage her life.
One mistake at court could change everything . . . .
Alex is screwed. She’s due at the fae Court of Enchantment in less than twenty-four hours, but she’s not even close to being ready. Her job is hanging by a fraying thread. There’s a new vampire master in town. And several of her werewolf friends have been captured by the Paranatural Task Force.
She’s their best chance for release before the full moon reveals their secret, but the Lord of Enchantment is not someone you keep waiting—even when he happens to be your grandfather. All Alex can do is call in a favor, hope to hell she can survive the plots of the fae court, and hightail it home to salvage her life.
One mistake at court could change everything . . . .
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2020
114 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
L.R. Braden
13 books406 followersL.R. Braden is a bestselling, multi-award-winning author of dark-yet-hopeful urban fantasy stories. Her published works include the Magicsmith series, the Rifter series, and several works of shorter fiction.
A bit of a recluse, she enjoys collecting skills that may (or may not) prove useful in the event that she is suddenly transported to an inhospitable alternate reality. Since that hasn't happened yet, she mostly spends her days weaving fantastic tales, playing with her family, and getting lost on purpose.
Her writing has won many awards, including the Eric Hoffer Book Award for Sci-fi/Fantasy, the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Paranormal Fiction, and the Imadjinn Award for Best Urban Fantasy.
Connect with her online at https://www.lrbraden.com
A bit of a recluse, she enjoys collecting skills that may (or may not) prove useful in the event that she is suddenly transported to an inhospitable alternate reality. Since that hasn't happened yet, she mostly spends her days weaving fantastic tales, playing with her family, and getting lost on purpose.
Her writing has won many awards, including the Eric Hoffer Book Award for Sci-fi/Fantasy, the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Paranormal Fiction, and the Imadjinn Award for Best Urban Fantasy.
Connect with her online at https://www.lrbraden.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 4, 2020
FAERIE FORGED by L.R. Braden is the third book in The Magicsmith supernatural suspense / urban fantasy series. The female protagonist, Alex Blackwood is a metalsmith creating works of art in Colorado after a fragile peace between the Fae and humans. She’s due at the fae court tomorrow and is not ready. Her mundane life is falling apart with werewolf friends being captured by the Paranatural Task Force, a new vampire master in town, and her job at the bookstore is on rocky ground. Has she prepped enough to make it through the Winter Festival at the fae Court of Enchantment?
Alex is a likeable main character who is loyal to her friends and is definitely someone you want to succeed. Her goals were clear and her motivations were believable. She showed more growth in this novel. The main secondary characters are getting more developed as well. They enhanced the story and added to the story rather than detracting from it. The prose was well-written, engaging, and entertaining. The plot was engrossing, fascinating and action-filled. The world-building was good. This book was a little different in that the majority of it takes place in the fae world and did not have a lot of action in the first half. Despite this, it kept me thoroughly engaged. However, there are still a lot of open threads that aren’t resolved that can be explored in the next book.
Additionally, this book is somewhat darker than the previous two and the plot was more complex.
Overall, the book was suspenseful, entertaining and fast-paced. I am looking forward to reading more in this fantasy series. If you enjoy supernatural suspense, then this book is one you may enjoy as much as I did. This series is best if it is read in order.
Many thanks to Belle Books, Inc. and L.R. Braden for a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
Alex is a likeable main character who is loyal to her friends and is definitely someone you want to succeed. Her goals were clear and her motivations were believable. She showed more growth in this novel. The main secondary characters are getting more developed as well. They enhanced the story and added to the story rather than detracting from it. The prose was well-written, engaging, and entertaining. The plot was engrossing, fascinating and action-filled. The world-building was good. This book was a little different in that the majority of it takes place in the fae world and did not have a lot of action in the first half. Despite this, it kept me thoroughly engaged. However, there are still a lot of open threads that aren’t resolved that can be explored in the next book.
Additionally, this book is somewhat darker than the previous two and the plot was more complex.
Overall, the book was suspenseful, entertaining and fast-paced. I am looking forward to reading more in this fantasy series. If you enjoy supernatural suspense, then this book is one you may enjoy as much as I did. This series is best if it is read in order.
Many thanks to Belle Books, Inc. and L.R. Braden for a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
February 5, 2020
This was my least favorite book in the series. An estimated 60% of this book was in the fairy realm. Sadly, that was the part I found dull. The remaining 30% was in the earth realm & I enjoyed it. This story was a let down. 2 stars will continue the series.
January 19, 2020
Three and a half stars.
Book three in this series. Alex is being hounded by O'Connell the PTF agent and her sort-of grandfather has summoned her to the Court of Enchantment.
Once again I found myself at a loss with this book, there's a plethora of characters who come and go and just don't have enough personality to be distinguishable. I kept getting confused between Kai and Chase and Mica. The action starts in the mundane world, Alex takes a trip to the Court of Enchantment and then she's back in the mundane world - at 60% into the book a whole big load of nothing had happened. In fact, in retrospect I think you could have read the first two books and then picked this book up at 60% and not have missed anything. There seems to be so much setting things up for the future that the book drifts around rudderless which is a pity because when the action gets going it's really good and engaging and fast-paced - it just didn't have much to do with the middle part of the book.
Maybe I've been too harsh in my review, I did like the book but I also lost interest a bit when Alex returned from the Court of Enchantment and it was obvious that the story arc that had developed there wasn't going to be developed further. Looking on the bright side Alex either falls out with her friends or they get killed off or leave so it should be easier to keep track of who's who in the next book :)
Based on the final third of the book I will definitely look forward to the next book in the series, it was action-packed, heart-in-your-mouth stuff.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Book three in this series. Alex is being hounded by O'Connell the PTF agent and her sort-of grandfather has summoned her to the Court of Enchantment.
Once again I found myself at a loss with this book, there's a plethora of characters who come and go and just don't have enough personality to be distinguishable. I kept getting confused between Kai and Chase and Mica. The action starts in the mundane world, Alex takes a trip to the Court of Enchantment and then she's back in the mundane world - at 60% into the book a whole big load of nothing had happened. In fact, in retrospect I think you could have read the first two books and then picked this book up at 60% and not have missed anything. There seems to be so much setting things up for the future that the book drifts around rudderless which is a pity because when the action gets going it's really good and engaging and fast-paced - it just didn't have much to do with the middle part of the book.
Maybe I've been too harsh in my review, I did like the book but I also lost interest a bit when Alex returned from the Court of Enchantment and it was obvious that the story arc that had developed there wasn't going to be developed further. Looking on the bright side Alex either falls out with her friends or they get killed off or leave so it should be easier to keep track of who's who in the next book :)
Based on the final third of the book I will definitely look forward to the next book in the series, it was action-packed, heart-in-your-mouth stuff.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 18, 2020
There are some authors I forget how much I really like their writing, and this is one such author. This is the third book in the Magicsmith series, and each book gets better and better. Alex is all set for her debut at her grandfather’s court, but that’s not all. O’Connell is still after her and her friends, and he is determined to prove they are all fae. How will she keep everyone safe, especially when she has to go to another realm? I just loved this book. Alex is such an interesting character, as well as the secondary characters, and so much happens in this one. The fast-paced action really keeps me engrossed, and the great writing keeps me coming back for more. I am glad there is some closure for Alex at the end of this, but there are so many more threads to explore. If you love urban fantasy, you really have to try this series. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
October 1, 2024
Faerie Forged is book 3 in the Magicsmith series by LR Braden, a series that just gets better and better. In this installment, Alex finally comes face to face with the Lord of Enchantment and it goes about as I would have expected it to, with a few twists - one I am very unhappy with but fully trust the author will make all better. While she has her foray into Faerie, things in the human world are in a state of upheaval with the PTF agent out to get her stirring up all kinds of drama. There are a lot of moving parts, but suffice it to say that Alex is forced to accept herself as she faces forces that aim to destroy!
I love these characters and this world and am totally up for the wild ride I know the author will take me one as I continue this series!!!
I love these characters and this world and am totally up for the wild ride I know the author will take me one as I continue this series!!!
January 27, 2020
This book pulled ALL the heartstrings! Seriously. I don't think it left a single one of my emotions untouched. *wistful sigh*
Faerie Forged is book #3 in the Magicsmith series and so far these books just keep getting better.
In Faerie Forged, Alex finally makes the trip to the Fae Realm to meet her last living relative; the Fae King Bael.
She's had a few months to train, but faerie customs & etiquette are so different from the human life she's used to, and one little mistake can land you in prison or worse. Needless to say, Alex is nervous.
To make matters worse, O'Connell is going after Alex and her friends in a big, terrifying, no-mercy kind of way.
I really can't say more about the plot without spoiling it, but just trust me on this: I was on the edge of my seat the entire time! The situations Alex and co. found themselves in just kept going from bad to worse, and I NEED BOOK FOUR.
Braden doesn't really do cliffhangers. She tied it up in a nice "happy for now" ending. But Jesus, Marry, and Joseph, she left SO MUCH to be desired for Book Four, I'm dying here knowing I'm going to have to wait for the next installment.
Some other thoughts:
- I kind of thought Alex would be in the fae realm longer, or that more would happen there. Don't get me wrong, what DID happen absolutely wrecked me, but it passed pretty quickly compared to everything else. AND OMG please tell me you-know-who comes back!!! I'm crying over that loss.
- James ... *sigh* ... I want to love him because he's a vampire, but it's been three books now and I know absolutely nothing about him other than he's a hot broody vampire. Okay, but so is every vampire. As boyfriend material for Alex, I'm having a very hard time not being bored with him. Sure, he's attentive and loving - When he actual shows up. I'm still rooting for the person I mentioned above in the first point. ^^^
- WHY didn't Alex use that magical ribbon she got? I don't know, but don't think I will forget about it any time soon. ;-)
- OZ! Yeah, that one broke my damn heart. #Ugh
Overall, Alex went through major character growth in this book. I've always liked her, and I love the badass she's becoming even more.
Have I mentioned I can't wait for Book Four?!?!?!?!
*Reviewed on behalf of ILOVEVAMPIRENOVELS.COM*
Faerie Forged is book #3 in the Magicsmith series and so far these books just keep getting better.
In Faerie Forged, Alex finally makes the trip to the Fae Realm to meet her last living relative; the Fae King Bael.
She's had a few months to train, but faerie customs & etiquette are so different from the human life she's used to, and one little mistake can land you in prison or worse. Needless to say, Alex is nervous.
To make matters worse, O'Connell is going after Alex and her friends in a big, terrifying, no-mercy kind of way.
I really can't say more about the plot without spoiling it, but just trust me on this: I was on the edge of my seat the entire time! The situations Alex and co. found themselves in just kept going from bad to worse, and I NEED BOOK FOUR.
Braden doesn't really do cliffhangers. She tied it up in a nice "happy for now" ending. But Jesus, Marry, and Joseph, she left SO MUCH to be desired for Book Four, I'm dying here knowing I'm going to have to wait for the next installment.
Some other thoughts:
- I kind of thought Alex would be in the fae realm longer, or that more would happen there. Don't get me wrong, what DID happen absolutely wrecked me, but it passed pretty quickly compared to everything else. AND OMG please tell me you-know-who comes back!!! I'm crying over that loss.
- James ... *sigh* ... I want to love him because he's a vampire, but it's been three books now and I know absolutely nothing about him other than he's a hot broody vampire. Okay, but so is every vampire. As boyfriend material for Alex, I'm having a very hard time not being bored with him. Sure, he's attentive and loving - When he actual shows up. I'm still rooting for the person I mentioned above in the first point. ^^^
- WHY didn't Alex use that magical ribbon she got? I don't know, but don't think I will forget about it any time soon. ;-)
- OZ! Yeah, that one broke my damn heart. #Ugh
Overall, Alex went through major character growth in this book. I've always liked her, and I love the badass she's becoming even more.
Have I mentioned I can't wait for Book Four?!?!?!?!
*Reviewed on behalf of ILOVEVAMPIRENOVELS.COM*
January 13, 2020
The third book about Alex the half Fae half human metalworker sees her in a very tight spot indeed. She's due at her grandfather's Court but desperate to help some of her friends who have been taken in for 'testing' . The sudden appearance of her uncle only adds to Alex's troubles but that's nothing to what she's about to face because sometimes she trusts the wrong people !
This was a fun read that kept me entertained. I do love a story that involves the Fae but surprisingly it was what actually occurred back in the mortal realm that had the most intensity. Alex is a great character who is bold and brave and I look forward to discovering what happens to her next.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This was a fun read that kept me entertained. I do love a story that involves the Fae but surprisingly it was what actually occurred back in the mortal realm that had the most intensity. Alex is a great character who is bold and brave and I look forward to discovering what happens to her next.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
January 21, 2020
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Paranormal / Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Faerie Forged, by L.R. Braden, is the third installment in the authors The Magicsmith series. Protagonist & metalsmith Alyssandra "Alex" Blackwood has her hands full in this story. For those who have not yet started this series, Alex is 1/2 fae, 1/2 human who can easily handle metals that other fae shy away from. She is also called an Imbuer, which means she is capable of imbuing objects with specific memory, emotion, thought, or enchantment. Alex's biggest worry is for PTF to discover that she's an unregistered halfie which would mean an end to her freedom.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Paranormal / Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Faerie Forged, by L.R. Braden, is the third installment in the authors The Magicsmith series. Protagonist & metalsmith Alyssandra "Alex" Blackwood has her hands full in this story. For those who have not yet started this series, Alex is 1/2 fae, 1/2 human who can easily handle metals that other fae shy away from. She is also called an Imbuer, which means she is capable of imbuing objects with specific memory, emotion, thought, or enchantment. Alex's biggest worry is for PTF to discover that she's an unregistered halfie which would mean an end to her freedom.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
July 15, 2020
Alex and her friends are back in book 3 of the Magicsmith series. She is scheduled to appear before the fae court but several of her vampire friends have been captured by the Paranormal Task Force and they're in danger. The action is fast and the characters all perform their roles. The story is well written and I look forward to more. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 19, 2020
Alex has to get ready for her trip to the fae realm to meet the Lord of Enchantment, also the fae who provided the fae genes in her family. But first she has to rescue a few wolf friends from the PTF’s clutches.
I liked this book the best. The first part where she visits the fae realm, wasn’t all that exciting. She did learn a lot from Bael, and she used those skills later in the book as well. But the rest of her visit there felt unnecessary. Maybe, hopefully, this was used to set up future scenarios still to come? Otherwise, it was a lot to read through for no purpose.
I still give this book 4 stars, because the events after she returned from the fae realm, was very exciting indeed. Alex also had to make some difficult decisions, found out some hard truths about the people around her. I also think she was a bit more mature. I can’t wait to continue the series.
I received an advanced copy of the book from Netgalley to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I liked this book the best. The first part where she visits the fae realm, wasn’t all that exciting. She did learn a lot from Bael, and she used those skills later in the book as well. But the rest of her visit there felt unnecessary. Maybe, hopefully, this was used to set up future scenarios still to come? Otherwise, it was a lot to read through for no purpose.
I still give this book 4 stars, because the events after she returned from the fae realm, was very exciting indeed. Alex also had to make some difficult decisions, found out some hard truths about the people around her. I also think she was a bit more mature. I can’t wait to continue the series.
I received an advanced copy of the book from Netgalley to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 2, 2024
Addictive Urban Fantasy
This series keeps getting more intriguing. Alex keeps evolving as well as the worlds around her. One thing's for sure, she never has a boring day. Lots of action, twists and turns, and wonderful characters kept me completely entertained.
This series keeps getting more intriguing. Alex keeps evolving as well as the worlds around her. One thing's for sure, she never has a boring day. Lots of action, twists and turns, and wonderful characters kept me completely entertained.
September 20, 2021
This one is sadly much worse than the first two books in the series.
First, it starts off with pretty bad pacing issues where it just doesn't manage to move at all and when it finally gets past endlessly circular inner dialogue and picks up the pace, and the plot moved to faerie, things fall apart very quickly.
This is a very minor spoiler at roughly 40% of the book.
Basically, the author utterly failed to pull of faerie trickery in a believable fashion but made it a major plot point nonetheless.
What essentially happens is that the author uses this supposed faerie trickery as a plot device when she needs it but it doesn't exist if it would be inconvenient for the plot.
This kind of cheap and lazy plot device infuriates me and is unacceptable in any literature above an average fan-fiction imo.
But while this alone infuriated me enough to write a whole paragraph about it it's by far not the last or the worst flaw in this book. But the rest is much easier to put into words.
The MC is TSTL to a mind-boggling degree.
First, it starts off with pretty bad pacing issues where it just doesn't manage to move at all and when it finally gets past endlessly circular inner dialogue and picks up the pace, and the plot moved to faerie, things fall apart very quickly.
This is a very minor spoiler at roughly 40% of the book.
Basically, the author utterly failed to pull of faerie trickery in a believable fashion but made it a major plot point nonetheless.
What essentially happens is that the author uses this supposed faerie trickery as a plot device when she needs it but it doesn't exist if it would be inconvenient for the plot.
This kind of cheap and lazy plot device infuriates me and is unacceptable in any literature above an average fan-fiction imo.
But while this alone infuriated me enough to write a whole paragraph about it it's by far not the last or the worst flaw in this book. But the rest is much easier to put into words.
The MC is TSTL to a mind-boggling degree.
February 3, 2020
ARC from NetGalley
3.5 stars
I did not read the first 2 installations of this series. I imagine things would have been better if I had, but I didn't feel like it was prohibitive in any way. I was still able to get into the story. I did read a bunch of reviews for the first 2, so I wasn't going in totally blind.
If you were to ask what this book was about, I couldn't really tell you any one thing. There isn't really a cohesive storyline. This book is very much in the midst of a series. I do like books to have one overarching theme for each book aside from the grander theme of things, serially speaking. Alex did a lot of things in this book. These things were interesting to read. I enjoyed reading this book, but it wasn't satisfying. There wasn't any one thing I was hoping for. It just seemed a little bit messy really.
If you don't like romance, great! There wasn't any. I do like romance, so that was a bit of a bummer for me. I had read things about the previous books having too much romance so I was like yay, but eh.
The bad guys are a little bit done to death. I don't think it is infeasible, but it has been DONE. It's almost to the point of being a caricature. I was waiting for O'Connell to twist his greasy black moustache as he strapped a fae to the train tracks and cackled maniacally. It was a bit eye-rolly.
It was a page-turner though. There was so much going on, it was hard for it not to be. When it ended, it was kind of a surprise like... I read all that to get to this? I think this series is the kind of series you read once it's done if you don't want to be irritated, which I was. It's an interesting premise. Interesting magic, if not unique. It just could have benefited from being a bit more of a standalone within a series, as I feel all books within series should be.
3.5 stars
I did not read the first 2 installations of this series. I imagine things would have been better if I had, but I didn't feel like it was prohibitive in any way. I was still able to get into the story. I did read a bunch of reviews for the first 2, so I wasn't going in totally blind.
If you were to ask what this book was about, I couldn't really tell you any one thing. There isn't really a cohesive storyline. This book is very much in the midst of a series. I do like books to have one overarching theme for each book aside from the grander theme of things, serially speaking. Alex did a lot of things in this book. These things were interesting to read. I enjoyed reading this book, but it wasn't satisfying. There wasn't any one thing I was hoping for. It just seemed a little bit messy really.
If you don't like romance, great! There wasn't any. I do like romance, so that was a bit of a bummer for me. I had read things about the previous books having too much romance so I was like yay, but eh.
The bad guys are a little bit done to death. I don't think it is infeasible, but it has been DONE. It's almost to the point of being a caricature. I was waiting for O'Connell to twist his greasy black moustache as he strapped a fae to the train tracks and cackled maniacally. It was a bit eye-rolly.
It was a page-turner though. There was so much going on, it was hard for it not to be. When it ended, it was kind of a surprise like... I read all that to get to this? I think this series is the kind of series you read once it's done if you don't want to be irritated, which I was. It's an interesting premise. Interesting magic, if not unique. It just could have benefited from being a bit more of a standalone within a series, as I feel all books within series should be.
March 19, 2023
After weeks of preparation, it is finally time for Alex Blackwood to test her skills and knowledge in the realm of the Fae. The Land of Enchantment is not only the home of her grandfather, but it is also filled with other Fae who all regard Alex with a level of suspicion due to her status as a halfer. And because of the intricate expectations and rituals of Fae culture, everyone is counting on Alex to fail. Alex's necessary secrecy has caused her human relationships to disintegrate, and she does not have time to remedy them before venturing into a place from which she may never return. She must pull on all she has to survive the faerie court and return home safe and sound so she can fix the broken pieces she has left behind.
This third in the Magicsmith series is heavily focused on the Fae realm, and readers will relish the rich descriptions that accompany Alex’s arrival in this novel place. A variety of characters appear throughout Alex's journey, and her connection to familiar characters becomes more complex as the story continues. Alex is still unsure of herself and her role in her life, but this book shows her taking some of the first steps toward discovering who she is meant to be.
With an easy-flowing narrative and a compelling plot, this book is one that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Readers would do well to have experienced the first two books before attempting this one, though this novel’s solid foundation will remind readers of the major events that have led to this point. Excellent writing and elegant details enhance the quality of this book, which is a good fit both for readers who enjoy urban fantasy and for those who have appreciated this series thus far. Young adults and older readers will both find joy in this collection as a whole.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
This third in the Magicsmith series is heavily focused on the Fae realm, and readers will relish the rich descriptions that accompany Alex’s arrival in this novel place. A variety of characters appear throughout Alex's journey, and her connection to familiar characters becomes more complex as the story continues. Alex is still unsure of herself and her role in her life, but this book shows her taking some of the first steps toward discovering who she is meant to be.
With an easy-flowing narrative and a compelling plot, this book is one that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Readers would do well to have experienced the first two books before attempting this one, though this novel’s solid foundation will remind readers of the major events that have led to this point. Excellent writing and elegant details enhance the quality of this book, which is a good fit both for readers who enjoy urban fantasy and for those who have appreciated this series thus far. Young adults and older readers will both find joy in this collection as a whole.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
January 27, 2020
Faerie Forged is the third book in the Magicsmith series by L.R. Braden. I highly recommend reading this series in order. I think newcomers would be lost as to much of the character and world building work that was done in the previous books.
Alex is screwed. She’s due at the fae Court of Enchantment in less than twenty-four hours, but she’s not even close to being ready. Her job is hanging by a fraying thread. There’s a new vampire master in town. And several of her werewolf friends have been captured by the Paranatural Task Force. She’s their best chance for release before the full moon reveals their secret, but the Lord of Enchantment is not someone you keep waiting—even when he happens to be your grandfather. All Alex can do is call in a favor, hope to hell she can survive the plots of the fae court, and hightail it home to salvage her life. One mistake at court could change everything.
Faerie Forged is a great addition to Alex's story and includes a great deal of additional world building as she enters the fae realm. I liked the pacing of the world and character building, and appreciate the continued character growth for Alex and those closest to her. I also liked some of the fae descriptions- and could recognize many from folklore, legends, and other previous reads. It did take me a few pages to get back into the story and remember where we left off with all of the relationships and complications, but I was quickly back to being fully invested. I liked that some threads of the story were neatly tied up, but so many new possibilities opened up by the end of the story. While the immediate issues were solved, and I was not left with the rage cliff hangers bring out in me, there are so many thing that could happen next. There are so many situations and relationships that could implode with the new developments that I desperately want the next book but also want the author to take their time so that the quality of plotting, pacing, and characters continues.
Faerie Forged is a solid continuation of the story. I am eager to see where the story takes us next.
Alex is screwed. She’s due at the fae Court of Enchantment in less than twenty-four hours, but she’s not even close to being ready. Her job is hanging by a fraying thread. There’s a new vampire master in town. And several of her werewolf friends have been captured by the Paranatural Task Force. She’s their best chance for release before the full moon reveals their secret, but the Lord of Enchantment is not someone you keep waiting—even when he happens to be your grandfather. All Alex can do is call in a favor, hope to hell she can survive the plots of the fae court, and hightail it home to salvage her life. One mistake at court could change everything.
Faerie Forged is a great addition to Alex's story and includes a great deal of additional world building as she enters the fae realm. I liked the pacing of the world and character building, and appreciate the continued character growth for Alex and those closest to her. I also liked some of the fae descriptions- and could recognize many from folklore, legends, and other previous reads. It did take me a few pages to get back into the story and remember where we left off with all of the relationships and complications, but I was quickly back to being fully invested. I liked that some threads of the story were neatly tied up, but so many new possibilities opened up by the end of the story. While the immediate issues were solved, and I was not left with the rage cliff hangers bring out in me, there are so many thing that could happen next. There are so many situations and relationships that could implode with the new developments that I desperately want the next book but also want the author to take their time so that the quality of plotting, pacing, and characters continues.
Faerie Forged is a solid continuation of the story. I am eager to see where the story takes us next.
December 5, 2021
This is a joint review for books 3, 4 and 5 in this series since I had the same response to all three. I read book 1, Drop of Magic, and thought it was ok. I did not read book 2, Courting Darkness. Netgalley gave me copies of 3 (Faerie Forged), 4 (Casting Shadows) and 5 (Of Mettle and Magic) in exchange for my honest review. I read all three in the course of two days.
I'm giving these three all a like rating because I enjoyed them. However, it is not at the top of the list of UF series I'd recommend.
The stories kept me reading, perhaps helped in part that the storylines don't really stand alone, it's one long saga so when a book ends, you are left wanting to see what happens. Not a true cliffhanger, but there's no overall resolution. I also really enjoy UF because of the strong secondary character development that usual takes place since there's usually time to have lots of character development with 3 or more books. There is some, but not enough and characters just seem to disappear. Sometimes that's due to the storyline taking Alex elsewhere, but a smoother transition would be nice.
Each book had some slow spots, but Casting Shadows and Of Mettle and Magic kicked up the action.
The author's latest release, Demon Riding Shotgun, let's one of the most recent secondary characters take a front seat. I just hope this doesn't mean we won't get another book wrapping up Alex's situation.
I'm giving these three all a like rating because I enjoyed them. However, it is not at the top of the list of UF series I'd recommend.
The stories kept me reading, perhaps helped in part that the storylines don't really stand alone, it's one long saga so when a book ends, you are left wanting to see what happens. Not a true cliffhanger, but there's no overall resolution. I also really enjoy UF because of the strong secondary character development that usual takes place since there's usually time to have lots of character development with 3 or more books. There is some, but not enough and characters just seem to disappear. Sometimes that's due to the storyline taking Alex elsewhere, but a smoother transition would be nice.
Each book had some slow spots, but Casting Shadows and Of Mettle and Magic kicked up the action.
The author's latest release, Demon Riding Shotgun, let's one of the most recent secondary characters take a front seat. I just hope this doesn't mean we won't get another book wrapping up Alex's situation.
May 28, 2020
Interesting
Incredible UF series thusfar. I love the magic system and how flawed the main character is. Chase is still my favorite character.
I feel like I love everything about these books except the romantic storyline, which I find troubling to no end. She has feelings for a male who says he loves her and for three books hasn't been around to show it. His actions don't match his words. It's like she's on her own until the end of each book when he shows up to say nice things and give her kisses.. it's not believable or admirable. I don't like it. For three books I've been hoping she ditches James for Chase. Please just love Chase. You know... the one who finds you interesting, has saved your life twice and sleeps in your bed every night? The one who's cheeky and smooth and playful even when your life is a chaotic mess? Fuck James and his bullshit. You haven't ever been his priority. Why should he be yours?
Aside from that small blip... thr magic system Braden created is gloriously beautiful. I love the idea of enchantments and imbuing items with her magic, and how interesting that can be. I also adore how many creatures are casually in these books. It adds more depth to the storyline and makes it even more fascinating. I can't wait for the next book. I'll seriously just be crossing my fingers that she forgets the stupid vampire.
Incredible UF series thusfar. I love the magic system and how flawed the main character is. Chase is still my favorite character.
I feel like I love everything about these books except the romantic storyline, which I find troubling to no end. She has feelings for a male who says he loves her and for three books hasn't been around to show it. His actions don't match his words. It's like she's on her own until the end of each book when he shows up to say nice things and give her kisses.. it's not believable or admirable. I don't like it. For three books I've been hoping she ditches James for Chase. Please just love Chase. You know... the one who finds you interesting, has saved your life twice and sleeps in your bed every night? The one who's cheeky and smooth and playful even when your life is a chaotic mess? Fuck James and his bullshit. You haven't ever been his priority. Why should he be yours?
Aside from that small blip... thr magic system Braden created is gloriously beautiful. I love the idea of enchantments and imbuing items with her magic, and how interesting that can be. I also adore how many creatures are casually in these books. It adds more depth to the storyline and makes it even more fascinating. I can't wait for the next book. I'll seriously just be crossing my fingers that she forgets the stupid vampire.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2020
This part was so awesome. I loved exploring Enchantment and getting a better handle on the different kinds of fae. Bael is my newest fascination, this series has given me so many, but I simply adored him. He's got a really dark side that draws me. I love the fae nature on the whole. The colorful world comes to life with wonderful details regarding locations, foods, and the types of fae are brilliantly depicted. I sure hope we go back to Enchantment for more in other parts.
Kai.... my feels and my heart. I love him so much.
I missed Chase and James, as they didn't have big parts in this book, but there was really so much going on that I was utterly satisfied, I'm just greedy for more.
After the return from Enchantment, things really got intense. Oh, and there is some enmotioal stuff as well that had me wanting to hug Alex. I can't believe all she has been through and the hits just keep coming.
I strongly recommend this series. I'm hooked, heading into the next part and hoping that more are in the pipes. I love every second I spend in this world.
Kai.... my feels and my heart. I love him so much.
I missed Chase and James, as they didn't have big parts in this book, but there was really so much going on that I was utterly satisfied, I'm just greedy for more.
After the return from Enchantment, things really got intense. Oh, and there is some enmotioal stuff as well that had me wanting to hug Alex. I can't believe all she has been through and the hits just keep coming.
I strongly recommend this series. I'm hooked, heading into the next part and hoping that more are in the pipes. I love every second I spend in this world.
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September 25, 2020These books just keep getting better and better. I am really enjoying following more deeply into the fae world, even more excited to feel that we're still on the visible part of the iceberg. Love the way tertiary characters have also been growing, expanding their roles and showing themselves as individuals in this world and timeline in their own right. Hoping to see some spin-offs of them, but still in the vibrant world the author has given us. And, I for one, appreciate the slower more thoughtful romance between Alex and James; feels much more like a true deepening love as they realistically view who each of them are and what's unfolding around them. Far more satisfying than, as one tends to encounter these days in books: sudden huge fireworks, a lusty romp in bed for a few days and then either an unbelievable love-at-first-bedding or a 'Who are you again?' With this series I have read much further into the night than I have in many years, and further than was prudent for a fresh brain the next day. Wonderful storytelling!
July 5, 2021
This series is SO GOOD. I can’t believe more people aren’t taking about it! Just finished the third book and, wow, what a ride. I have a soft spot for urban fantasy but this stands on its own 🤩
The thing I love about this series is the FEEL of it. You can feel the world slowly splitting down paranatural and Purity lines. You can feel the hatred and fanaticism of O’Connell. You can feel the sly, snide undercurrents of the court. And you can feel the joy and happiness that comes from family and loved ones. It’s so, so great to read.
I enjoy how mature Alex is. It’s really nice to read a character who’s older and has some maturity, knows herself well and has confidence in just being her. Is she perfect? Of course not. But we see her thinking and how she turns things over and it’s so easy to fall into the story.
I still don’t feel any connection between James and Alex though that doesn’t really detract from the story. It’s a bit of a side note but woven throughout very well.
I’m looking forward to the next disasters that Alex and the team have to tackle in book 4!
🌟🌟🌟🌟 / 5
The thing I love about this series is the FEEL of it. You can feel the world slowly splitting down paranatural and Purity lines. You can feel the hatred and fanaticism of O’Connell. You can feel the sly, snide undercurrents of the court. And you can feel the joy and happiness that comes from family and loved ones. It’s so, so great to read.
I enjoy how mature Alex is. It’s really nice to read a character who’s older and has some maturity, knows herself well and has confidence in just being her. Is she perfect? Of course not. But we see her thinking and how she turns things over and it’s so easy to fall into the story.
I still don’t feel any connection between James and Alex though that doesn’t really detract from the story. It’s a bit of a side note but woven throughout very well.
I’m looking forward to the next disasters that Alex and the team have to tackle in book 4!
🌟🌟🌟🌟 / 5
August 22, 2020
This is usually not my genre of reading but I worked with the author and am fascinated by reading outside my zone and seeing if I like an author’s writing style.
I am pleased to say that although not my favorite subject to read, I am amazed by the visual images that pop into my head while I am reading, really truly love her way with words and how they are used in such a wonderful path to help make the reader understand the feeling of the character and the experience.
I have some trouble remembering all the characters and some of the previous activity but the book flows well for me as far as keeping me reading.
I gave it five stars for that visualization that happened multiple times for me and I am a bit fascinated with where the story is headed for Alex.
I am pleased to say that although not my favorite subject to read, I am amazed by the visual images that pop into my head while I am reading, really truly love her way with words and how they are used in such a wonderful path to help make the reader understand the feeling of the character and the experience.
I have some trouble remembering all the characters and some of the previous activity but the book flows well for me as far as keeping me reading.
I gave it five stars for that visualization that happened multiple times for me and I am a bit fascinated with where the story is headed for Alex.
January 4, 2025
I am enjoying delving into this world. Alex started out with a few friends and a quiet life but now she has several folks living with her and counting on her. Alex goes to fae to visit with her grandfather and learn about imbuing. Things do not go quite as planned and Alex comes back alone. It seems that the PTF are gunning for her friends so she is doing everything she can to keep them safe. She is also still struggling with her feelings for James and how to deal with them. I like the resolution to this adventure and looking forward to how Alex’s life will be moving forward. This is a great series and I’m really enjoying it!
March 2, 2023
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. The more I read of the story the more I am invested in what is going to happen next. That is due to the wonderful characters, amazing worlding building, and the pacing of the story and action. Alex always has to be on her toes for she never knows where danger might be coming from at any given time. I am so ready for the next one. The more I read about this world the more I fall into it.
March 24, 2020
Good
It's a middle of the story kind of ending but enough of the side storms have reached a resting place that I can wait for the next in the series.
Moral challenges, faerie, weres, magic, knights, good cops and bad ones, romance and lots of adventures - they're all here.
Good story. Good writing. Great editing. Definitely worth the read.
It's a middle of the story kind of ending but enough of the side storms have reached a resting place that I can wait for the next in the series.
Moral challenges, faerie, weres, magic, knights, good cops and bad ones, romance and lots of adventures - they're all here.
Good story. Good writing. Great editing. Definitely worth the read.
May 17, 2021
Great twist on a much loved genre
What do an almost human, a fae, a vampire and werewolves have in common? You’ll have to read this series in order to find out. I will definitely add this author to my “must follow “ list.
What do an almost human, a fae, a vampire and werewolves have in common? You’ll have to read this series in order to find out. I will definitely add this author to my “must follow “ list.
February 26, 2021
This entire series is phenomenal and this final installment doesn’t disappoint. Highly recommended!
April 13, 2021
I managed to make it through the first three but doubt I will continue with series unless I get desperate. Can’t really explain why but just am not enjoying this series.
February 5, 2020
Wow!!!! This is the Best in the series!
January 27, 2020
Ok well I’m not sure if this is a stand-alone, I know I definitely felt like I was missing some information but not enough that I couldn’t fill in the blanks. Honestly the first 55% of the book I was struggling to get into it. But after things started to get exciting and just over all a great read. I am excited to pick up where it left off but then I hope it’s not a slow start like this book.
January 26, 2020
I liked the beginning of this book better than its ending. The first half was spent having fun in the fae court, giving us a glimpse into the wild, cruel, and wily lives they lead. Alex's fae lord ancestor deserves his crown for his leading role in the fae skills. Obviously, it wasn't a fun party, Alex messed up in a pretty stupid manner, and bad things happened.
The second half of the book became progressively worse. Alex seemed to be a magnet for getting captured and beaten up. At least I can't blame her for this one, and I was very impressed that she freed herself, with her own skills, rather than leaning on her hero team as she did in the last two books.
I wish there was a bit more lightness/happiness in here, especially towards the end. The plot constantly grew darker, even as it evolved. Speaking of, the plot was fresh and creatively different. I like that there was always something new happening, and that Alex's character evolved as well. Considering this is the third book in the series, I'm impressed with the increasing complexity of the plot and characters.
Even though I'm disappointed with its darkish ending, I'm still eager to continue this series. Obviously, everything will work out in the end, and I need to stay until the end of this journey.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The second half of the book became progressively worse. Alex seemed to be a magnet for getting captured and beaten up. At least I can't blame her for this one, and I was very impressed that she freed herself, with her own skills, rather than leaning on her hero team as she did in the last two books.
I wish there was a bit more lightness/happiness in here, especially towards the end. The plot constantly grew darker, even as it evolved. Speaking of, the plot was fresh and creatively different. I like that there was always something new happening, and that Alex's character evolved as well. Considering this is the third book in the series, I'm impressed with the increasing complexity of the plot and characters.
Even though I'm disappointed with its darkish ending, I'm still eager to continue this series. Obviously, everything will work out in the end, and I need to stay until the end of this journey.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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