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Coven Enforcers #1
Blood and Magic
Magic didn't just find Luke Caulfield. It chased him down, bludgeoned him, and has been dogging him ever since. Some lessons are harder than others, but Luke embraces danger, upping the ante to give it one better. An enforcer for the Coven, a large, established group of witches, his latest assignment is playing bodyguard to the daughter of Coven leaders. Abigail Ruskin is chaperoning a spoiled twelve-year-old from New York to her parents' home in Utah Territory when Luke gets on their stagecoach in Colorado. A powerful witch herself, Abigail senses Luke's magic, but has no idea what he's doing on her stagecoach. Stuck between the petulant child and Luke's raw sexual energy, Abigail can't wait for the trip to end. Unpleasant truths surface about the child. While Abigail's struggling with those, wraiths, wolves, and dark mages launch an attack. Luke's so attracted to Abigail, she's almost all he can think about, but he's leery too. The child is just plain evil. Is Abigail in league with her? It might explain the odd attack that took out their driver and one of their horses. In over his head, he summons enforcer backup. Will they help him save the woman he's falling in love with, or demand her immediate execution?
250 pages, Paperback
First published April 29, 2014
About the author
Ann Gimpel
174 books654 followersAnn Gimpel is a USA Today bestselling fantasy and romance author. She's also a clinical psychologist with a Jungian bent. Avocations include mountaineering, skiing, wilderness photography and, of course, writing. A lifelong aficionado of the unusual, she began writing speculative fiction a few years ago. Since then her short fiction has appeared in a number of webzines and anthologies. Her longer books run the gamut from urban fantasy to paranormal romance. She’s published over 75 books to date, with several more contracted for 2019 and beyond.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 15, 2014
Luke lost his parents many years ago to a Wraith. Until that time, he had sworn off learning magic. But using magic helped him to kill the Wraith. From that point forward, he learned everything there was to know about magic, later becoming a Coven Enforcer.
Abigail is a witch that also worked for the Coven. She agreed to chaperone Carolyn, the young daughter of the Coven’s top leaders on a move to Utah. Luke joined them halfway through the journey. Unaware that he is a secret Enforcer, Abigail doesn't trust him, and the feeling is mutual.
It doesn't take long to discover that Carolyn is not as she seems. With Wraith, mad wolves, and rogue humans constantly attacking them, will they be able to work together to survive? And will Luke and Abigail conquer their feelings for each other?
I felt like there should have been more back-story to Abigail. You learn why Luke is as he is, but Abigail is just thrown in there as is. I did like the story and the characters. It’s just that I didn't feel connected enough, except with Luke. I also wanted to know more about his fellow Enforcers, and their stories. And the same goes with the Wraith, wolves, and rogue humans. There is no reason or explanation, just that they are. I think the book should have given more on that.
Abigail is a witch that also worked for the Coven. She agreed to chaperone Carolyn, the young daughter of the Coven’s top leaders on a move to Utah. Luke joined them halfway through the journey. Unaware that he is a secret Enforcer, Abigail doesn't trust him, and the feeling is mutual.
It doesn't take long to discover that Carolyn is not as she seems. With Wraith, mad wolves, and rogue humans constantly attacking them, will they be able to work together to survive? And will Luke and Abigail conquer their feelings for each other?
I felt like there should have been more back-story to Abigail. You learn why Luke is as he is, but Abigail is just thrown in there as is. I did like the story and the characters. It’s just that I didn't feel connected enough, except with Luke. I also wanted to know more about his fellow Enforcers, and their stories. And the same goes with the Wraith, wolves, and rogue humans. There is no reason or explanation, just that they are. I think the book should have given more on that.
May 7, 2014
This was my first historical paranormal but it won’t be my last. The tale begins with Luke’s rather heartbreaking backstory filled with wraiths and magic. Jump ahead about thirty years and we meet a very powerful witch, Abigail, who has the thankless task of escorting a rather bratty young lady across the county to the Utah territory where her parents have settled. Luke is an enforcer sharing the travelling coach with the ladies. Just as sexual sparks erupt so doesn’t a vicious supernatural attack comprised of wolves, wraiths and the spirit of a Salem witch. The book is heavy on action, sometimes overwhelmingly so. The coven must defend itself from all manor of evil. Readers will meet some very charming enforcers who add to the story without overwhelming it. Luke is a classic alpha male but not overbearing. The magic and mystery swirl around at a dizzying rate but despite all the conflict the protagonists still manage to sneak a few breaks for well-written and sizzling passion. I won’t give away any spoilers but there is a well deserved happily ever after at the end.
May 15, 2014
This book is a departure for Ann Gimpel in some ways because it is a stand alone book - most of what she has written lately has been series'. This departure allowed her to focus more on the "Happy Ever After" ending that is often missing in a series book, at least until the last book. They usually have a "Happy For Now" ending that leads into the next book but sometimes there is a cliffhanger ending that leaves you desperate for the next book to see what happens to your characters! However, if she wished to continue to write in this world I would be thrilled because I am very sure there are more stories to be told and it seems like an interesting and enchanting place.
That is not to say that this book isn't full of action and some pretty awesome fights between the minions of evil and Luke, Abigail and other Coven members on the side of good! The magic that each Coven member uses is as elemental as each person is different so the way they fight and the types of spells they use is quite interesting to read. The evil that they are facing is quite insidious, lurking inside the ones you least suspect until you are confronted by it in a situation where you have very little time and a small chance to figure out how to save the ones around you that you must protect, let alone yourself!
There was so much of this wonderful book that surprised me! There isn't a lot else to say without spoiling anything and I won't do that in a review. All I can do is highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a bit of steampunk style in their books, anyone who likes anything to do with magic and the ongoing battle between good and evil and anyone who likes a book that engrosses and entertains you and makes you smile and leaves you with a good feeling when you are done!
I received a copy of the ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
That is not to say that this book isn't full of action and some pretty awesome fights between the minions of evil and Luke, Abigail and other Coven members on the side of good! The magic that each Coven member uses is as elemental as each person is different so the way they fight and the types of spells they use is quite interesting to read. The evil that they are facing is quite insidious, lurking inside the ones you least suspect until you are confronted by it in a situation where you have very little time and a small chance to figure out how to save the ones around you that you must protect, let alone yourself!
There was so much of this wonderful book that surprised me! There isn't a lot else to say without spoiling anything and I won't do that in a review. All I can do is highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a bit of steampunk style in their books, anyone who likes anything to do with magic and the ongoing battle between good and evil and anyone who likes a book that engrosses and entertains you and makes you smile and leaves you with a good feeling when you are done!
I received a copy of the ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2014
I was pleasantly surprised by this book, it's set in the 1800's which is not a time period I've read much of, and to be honest, if it hadn't been an Ann Gimpel book I probably would have bypassed it but I'm so glad I read it! Ann really has proven her talent with this novel, I have enjoyed everything of hers that I've read, with this book she shows how diverse an author she is.
This is a paranormal romance involving witches and mages along with other more ghastly creatures such as wraiths and mad dogs and even the evil spirit of a Salem Witch! There's a lot going on, it's very fast paced with lots of action which definitely kept me reading and ensured I finished the book within a few hours of starting it.
The characters are great, I love Ann's talent for writing a strong heroine. I find the sappy/needy heroines to be hard to connect to and really annoying, I would assume the heroines of a novel set in this period to be totally dependent on men and to be of the sappy/needy variety (this is probably why I've never considered exploring this genre) but boy was I wrong?! Abigail is freaking awesome, she's a kick-ass heroine who can take care of herself. Luke, the hero of the piece, is a mage and an enforcer working for the Coven, he is just lovely....sigh...they definitely don't make them like that anymore. He is a gentleman first and foremost, a protector, he is definitely an alpha male but is not over-bearing or over-protective with it.
I loved the ending, it fed my need for a happy ending perfectly. A truly well deserved five stars from me!
This is a paranormal romance involving witches and mages along with other more ghastly creatures such as wraiths and mad dogs and even the evil spirit of a Salem Witch! There's a lot going on, it's very fast paced with lots of action which definitely kept me reading and ensured I finished the book within a few hours of starting it.
The characters are great, I love Ann's talent for writing a strong heroine. I find the sappy/needy heroines to be hard to connect to and really annoying, I would assume the heroines of a novel set in this period to be totally dependent on men and to be of the sappy/needy variety (this is probably why I've never considered exploring this genre) but boy was I wrong?! Abigail is freaking awesome, she's a kick-ass heroine who can take care of herself. Luke, the hero of the piece, is a mage and an enforcer working for the Coven, he is just lovely....sigh...they definitely don't make them like that anymore. He is a gentleman first and foremost, a protector, he is definitely an alpha male but is not over-bearing or over-protective with it.
I loved the ending, it fed my need for a happy ending perfectly. A truly well deserved five stars from me!
May 20, 2014
Blood and Magic by Ann Gimpel was quite a compelling story that brings mage and witch togther in a very interesting adventure. I must admit the story did start off kind of slow. At first I did not appreciate the slowness, but after reading the entire novel it makes sense. The plot needed to develop and a foundation for the the main characters, Luke and Abigail, needed to be in place so that it fully makes sense. Gimpel writing picks up in my opinion around chapter 2, the meeting of Luke and Abigail. From there Gimpels gifts the reading audience with many adventures that deal with possessions, fighting evil (of course) and a mixture of romance. The story flows well and I was really caught up more on what the Enforcers would be forced to do and if love would conquer it all. Blood and Magic is a pretty decent read at about 195 pages, if you love folklore and paranormal, this book is for you.
The cover of this book displays what is to be Luke and Abigail in a small embrace, clearly in love and want of each other. It does have an old world feel to it with the amber colors. It quite suits the time period of this novel.
The cover of this book displays what is to be Luke and Abigail in a small embrace, clearly in love and want of each other. It does have an old world feel to it with the amber colors. It quite suits the time period of this novel.
June 17, 2014
While I didn't fall in love with this book....I really liked it! It kept me turning page after page and getting into all of different genres. I love a book that doesn't stick with one genre.....mixing it up is always a good thing and Ann Gimpel does it very well! What makes this special tho..is the POV.... Getting it from the male version for a change...awesome! The female lead is no slouch and can handle her own against all of the bad paranormal that come their way...but having a strong alpha male around is always helpful!
If you haven't read a historical...try this one...if you haven't read a paranormal..try this one. This book can do several genre's justice and make you forget that you may not like romances....or witches....or history.....or...well you get the idea! It's good...read it!
June 10, 2014
I have to admit that I usually don’t like reading books from this time period. I was however pleasantly surprised by this book. I loved the whole paranormal side of the story. This story has witches, mages and nasty creatures. Good fighting against evil. It was fast paced, had a lot of action and great romance. I loved that the heroin in this story was strong willed, independent and able to fight her own battles. And our hero, a mage working for the coven, is just perfect. Together they can battle whatever comes their way. It was definitely a great read for those who love the paranormal.
June 5, 2014
Blood and Magic is a quick, fun story full of adventure, magic, suspense, and romance. One of the things I really like about it is that it is a standalone, which is a rarity. Abigail is chaperoning a child home on the stagecoach while Luke is playing bodyguard. Abigail is a witch, a strong female lead, which I absolutely love. Luke is an enforcer for a group of witches, a protector. Together they must fight through all sorts of dark magic to keep themselves alive.
The connection between Abigail and Luke is great. I enjoyed both of the characters, which of course is always a plus. I also loved the different forms of magic described in the book. The author did a great job of building the story and creating a believable backdrop for what was to come. Set in the 1800s, Blood and Magic is an imaginative story that will keep you turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The connection between Abigail and Luke is great. I enjoyed both of the characters, which of course is always a plus. I also loved the different forms of magic described in the book. The author did a great job of building the story and creating a believable backdrop for what was to come. Set in the 1800s, Blood and Magic is an imaginative story that will keep you turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2014
This book was a good read. I enjoyed the story and plot line and would continue to read stories written by her. It did seem a little rushed and the fight scenes a little rushed and to kill the big bads a little too easy though they made it sound like they would be hard to kill. The book starts out exciting and stays that way through out with its own rules written for magic users. I always I enjoy well written paranormal romances and this was one of them.
May 4, 2014
I had the honor to read and review for this awesome author. This was a slow start to get into, but then it picked up rather well. I felt it just didn't have a really good flow to it. The transitions were slightly misallianed.
September 11, 2016
This is the beginning of a magical series set in the 1800s. The world building is impeccable. I was able to smell the stench of the wraiths in the air, and hear the pants of mad wolves on my heels. I felt the lack of understanding of those who had no magic. Characters became living, breathing entities. Territories became real places on the map.
The author’s writing was beautifully clear, there were no nasty grammatical errors throwing me from the story. The pace was furious, the plot gripping.
This book is a combination of Old West, the best of fantasy, a bit of steampunk, and a strong dollop of romance. The world created is brutal, unforgiving, and completely fascinating. It’s the kind of place almost any true magic lover would long to visit.
All opinions stated in this review are my own. I never receive financial compensation my reviews. I depend heavily upon the honest and unbiased reviews of others for my own book purchasing decisions. I have nothing to gain by misrepresenting my experience.
The author’s writing was beautifully clear, there were no nasty grammatical errors throwing me from the story. The pace was furious, the plot gripping.
This book is a combination of Old West, the best of fantasy, a bit of steampunk, and a strong dollop of romance. The world created is brutal, unforgiving, and completely fascinating. It’s the kind of place almost any true magic lover would long to visit.
All opinions stated in this review are my own. I never receive financial compensation my reviews. I depend heavily upon the honest and unbiased reviews of others for my own book purchasing decisions. I have nothing to gain by misrepresenting my experience.
October 27, 2016
When Luke was a boy his parents were turned into wraiths. Up until the time came to try and save the rest of his family from them he had shunned magic. That fateful evening opened his eyes and he moved forward with releasing and honing his magical abilities. Many years later he encounters a woman traveling with a young girl across the U.S. in a stagecoach. The woman and the child have more to them than can be seen by a normal eye.
Abigail Ruskin is escorting Carolyn, a bratty pre-teen from the east coast to Utah where her parents build a new home in the Utah territory. Abigail cannot wait to deliver the girl who has done nothing but try her patience from the start. Untrainable magically, Abigail isn't quite sure why her parents hire her, a witch, to try and do anything with Carolyn. It's not until the stagecoach is attacked that Abigail realizes that there is something wrong with Carolyn - and what is wrong chills her to the bone.
Abigail's life is about to take a turn that she she may never recover from.
Ann Gimpel is one of my absolute favorite authors. I've yet to ready anything by her that I didn't like. I can add Blood and Magic to the "I love it" list. Her characters are real. They have real emotions, are likeable, and are written in such a way that no matter their genre (paranormal, steampunk, historical), the reader will connect with them. Abigail is a great character. She's strong and can hold her own even with the darkness invades. Luke is a strong alpha male that isn't overbearing or controlling. He's a protector and does his job well.
I was engaged in Blood and Magic from the beginning. There is action, magic, and romance. The plot is strong and unique and the story is fast paced. The characters have depth and layers not just 2 dimensional robots that move through the pages. I became engrossed in Luke and Abigail's story, not wanting it to end. Another great novel by the very talented author, Ann Gimpel.
Review copy provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
Abigail Ruskin is escorting Carolyn, a bratty pre-teen from the east coast to Utah where her parents build a new home in the Utah territory. Abigail cannot wait to deliver the girl who has done nothing but try her patience from the start. Untrainable magically, Abigail isn't quite sure why her parents hire her, a witch, to try and do anything with Carolyn. It's not until the stagecoach is attacked that Abigail realizes that there is something wrong with Carolyn - and what is wrong chills her to the bone.
Abigail's life is about to take a turn that she she may never recover from.
Ann Gimpel is one of my absolute favorite authors. I've yet to ready anything by her that I didn't like. I can add Blood and Magic to the "I love it" list. Her characters are real. They have real emotions, are likeable, and are written in such a way that no matter their genre (paranormal, steampunk, historical), the reader will connect with them. Abigail is a great character. She's strong and can hold her own even with the darkness invades. Luke is a strong alpha male that isn't overbearing or controlling. He's a protector and does his job well.
I was engaged in Blood and Magic from the beginning. There is action, magic, and romance. The plot is strong and unique and the story is fast paced. The characters have depth and layers not just 2 dimensional robots that move through the pages. I became engrossed in Luke and Abigail's story, not wanting it to end. Another great novel by the very talented author, Ann Gimpel.
Review copy provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2016
I absolutely love this new series set in the 1800's a more realistic look at the way things were with witches back then, with a team of Tall, Dark and Magical men known as The Coven Enforcers. We are taken back to the times of the Wild West, where the enforcers fight the evils of Dark Magic.
At 15 Luke Caulfield is forced to finally embraces his magic after Wraith take his parents and his youngest sister. After years of training to hone his magical skills, he makes it his life's mission to rid the world of the evil dark and soon joins The Coven Enforcers. He ultimately comes to the realization that the witch he is traveling with makes his magic sing and he swears to himself that he will let no harm come to her from the evil that has taken residence in her body.
Abigail Ruskin a powerful coven witch is chaperoning the spoiled young Catherine from NY to her parents Coven Leaders, in Utah on the stagecoach, unaware that the child is host to one of the strongest dark witches of Salem. She is also unaware that the other passenger, a dashingly handsome man traveling with them is a Coven Enforcer. She can feel his magic, but she feels more than that too.
There is a battle of good and evil that has the other Coven Enforcers joining in and is very action packed and suspenseful. Had me on the edge of my seat. Can't wait to read the next book in this very magical and suspenseful series.
At 15 Luke Caulfield is forced to finally embraces his magic after Wraith take his parents and his youngest sister. After years of training to hone his magical skills, he makes it his life's mission to rid the world of the evil dark and soon joins The Coven Enforcers. He ultimately comes to the realization that the witch he is traveling with makes his magic sing and he swears to himself that he will let no harm come to her from the evil that has taken residence in her body.
Abigail Ruskin a powerful coven witch is chaperoning the spoiled young Catherine from NY to her parents Coven Leaders, in Utah on the stagecoach, unaware that the child is host to one of the strongest dark witches of Salem. She is also unaware that the other passenger, a dashingly handsome man traveling with them is a Coven Enforcer. She can feel his magic, but she feels more than that too.
There is a battle of good and evil that has the other Coven Enforcers joining in and is very action packed and suspenseful. Had me on the edge of my seat. Can't wait to read the next book in this very magical and suspenseful series.
May 29, 2014
I received this book from Ann Gimpel and “Paranormal Romance & Authors That Rock” in exchange for an honest review.
Abigail and Luke are workers of the coven. They wield magic and fight evil. Despite their differences in magic and jobs, they still find a way to connect.
This story is packed full of action at every corner. It starts off confusing and a bit slow, but it quickly picks up. This was my first historical romance and a bit out of my preference, but I enjoyed it none the less. The plot was intriguing, and I did turn the pages faster during action scenes.
This is supposed to be set around 1861, but I had a hard time getting the feel of that time-frame. They wouldn’t always talk in the same mannerisms the whole time. I noticed they would go between then and now with what they would say or do. I would have liked more detail in certain circumstances, and I think that would have taken away some of the confusion throughout the story. I didn’t like how the mind reading only seemed to work when it was convenient for the author.
Although I wasn’t in love with the writing style or the story, I did find certain aspects fascinating! 3 fangs for originality.
~A
Abigail and Luke are workers of the coven. They wield magic and fight evil. Despite their differences in magic and jobs, they still find a way to connect.
This story is packed full of action at every corner. It starts off confusing and a bit slow, but it quickly picks up. This was my first historical romance and a bit out of my preference, but I enjoyed it none the less. The plot was intriguing, and I did turn the pages faster during action scenes.
This is supposed to be set around 1861, but I had a hard time getting the feel of that time-frame. They wouldn’t always talk in the same mannerisms the whole time. I noticed they would go between then and now with what they would say or do. I would have liked more detail in certain circumstances, and I think that would have taken away some of the confusion throughout the story. I didn’t like how the mind reading only seemed to work when it was convenient for the author.
Although I wasn’t in love with the writing style or the story, I did find certain aspects fascinating! 3 fangs for originality.
~A
July 19, 2016
I am a huge fan of Ann Gimpel, so when I picked up this I couldn't wait to get started and was hooked from the first page. I have never read anything quite like this book, the way that this author spins a story amazes me every time.
I loved the world that this was set in and the charachters..... Wow, you can't help but fall in love with them. Abigail is a strong willed, independent woman that also happens to be an amazingly strong Witch with piles of compassion and love for those around her and Luke is a strong, protective giving Mage with a haunted history..... The making of an awesome story alone, then add in possessions and Evil...... Making this book simply awesome.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!!!
I loved the world that this was set in and the charachters..... Wow, you can't help but fall in love with them. Abigail is a strong willed, independent woman that also happens to be an amazingly strong Witch with piles of compassion and love for those around her and Luke is a strong, protective giving Mage with a haunted history..... The making of an awesome story alone, then add in possessions and Evil...... Making this book simply awesome.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!!!
March 18, 2023
I listened to an audio version of this book. Abigail is a witch who is chaperoning a spoiled girl from New York to a new home in Utah territory. (It is never really explained why she didn't just move with her parents who are coven witches.) While in a party of the journey which involves stagecoach travel, the two are joined by a man named Luke Caulfield. When the stage is attacked by wraith, the two adults must fight them off. Turns out that Luke is a mage and between the two magic users they manage to save themselves and the girl. Unfortunately, they have lost one of the horses and the driver. Now things really get interesting as they discover the girl is possessed by the spirit of a Salem witch. A nasty one.
There is much more to the story, of course, but I don't want to spoil it for you. I was gifted a copy of this book by the author and have already purchased others in the series. Enjoy.
There is much more to the story, of course, but I don't want to spoil it for you. I was gifted a copy of this book by the author and have already purchased others in the series. Enjoy.
November 15, 2019
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobooks of this series.
We see the situation of a young 14 year old boy, called Luke, sent for help, when his mother has been overtaken by evil. That boy, who had as yet not acknowledged his own magic, was to stand alone, fighting for his family and neighbors against the dark evilish shadows of the night.
Next we come across the same man, who is a passenger on a stage coach. This time, when evil comes, he has help in the form of a young witch. Together, they fight evil, and evil intent.
That isn't to say there's not a romantic attraction also developing, but the fight against the dark magical influences takes precedence.
We see the situation of a young 14 year old boy, called Luke, sent for help, when his mother has been overtaken by evil. That boy, who had as yet not acknowledged his own magic, was to stand alone, fighting for his family and neighbors against the dark evilish shadows of the night.
Next we come across the same man, who is a passenger on a stage coach. This time, when evil comes, he has help in the form of a young witch. Together, they fight evil, and evil intent.
That isn't to say there's not a romantic attraction also developing, but the fight against the dark magical influences takes precedence.
March 31, 2018
Decent enough until the final chapters. I understand wanting to tie everything together and build up to a sequel but it could have done without all the boringly written sex. Those chapters alone made me lower my score from a solid 3to a weak 2.
September 3, 2020
Blood and Magic Review
I loved Luke and Abigail's story. A great paranormal read set in historical days. Mages and witches fighting evil for mankind. Well-written story with great characters.
I loved Luke and Abigail's story. A great paranormal read set in historical days. Mages and witches fighting evil for mankind. Well-written story with great characters.
November 15, 2020
DNF 25%. Not enough back story on either character to make me emotionally attached (some for Luke, but not at all for the heroine) and the world building is completely missing. There seems to be evil everywhere, for some reason that isn't explained.
December 7, 2020
2 1/2 stars.
March 4, 2023
Interesting read, good steamy moments.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
September 8, 2023
Dnf 50%
September 12, 2016
3.5 stars
Fast-paced read, that kept me guessing, and ended wanting more.
Everything was relevant to the story, perfect cohesively, with no weak points.
I've loved the characters. They are easy to like, connect and understand.
This was magical and action-packed.
Full of plot twists and surprises.
Carolyn's mystery was very interesting.
I have loved the paranormal aspects of the book, not all the historical aspects.
I'm sorry this cover is not Luke. Luke is much older than that.
I would like to have known the secondary characters a bit more, just like an introduction for the following books.
Fast-paced read, that kept me guessing, and ended wanting more.
Everything was relevant to the story, perfect cohesively, with no weak points.
I've loved the characters. They are easy to like, connect and understand.
This was magical and action-packed.
Full of plot twists and surprises.
Carolyn's mystery was very interesting.
I have loved the paranormal aspects of the book, not all the historical aspects.
I'm sorry this cover is not Luke. Luke is much older than that.
I would like to have known the secondary characters a bit more, just like an introduction for the following books.
You MAY buy this book because you enjoy historical reads; you SHOULD buy this book because you like paranormal stories; you MUST buy this book because you are read to something totally different and for a great world-building!
July 26, 2016
Blood and Magic: Paranormal Romance-With a Steampunk Edge Coven Enforcers Book 1
by Ann Gimpel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ann Gimpel never disappoints! Blood and Magic is completely phenomenal! I absolutely love this paranormal sexy storyline , and I can't wait to read the next installment in this series! When I read the excerpt and thought oh this would be a awesome story to read. WOW! but then I started reading it and saw how intense this was you get pull into it right away and can I tell you if this is a fantastic book you are darn right this is a awesome book. The Storyline is exciting, sensual and I really got involved with the characters. I love reading a story that the main characters have a lots of tension between them and they have something special about their romance, but this is a story with everything you want in a paranormal romance, which added a few layers of suspense to the plot,and had me wondering all the way through what was what. It wasn't obvious what would happen until the final pages that all the ends were tied up (in a most satisfactory manner, I might add). It’s a combination of strong characters, exciting plot, and a budding romance. This is the first of Coven Enforcers books that I have read and now I'm on the edge of my seat to read more. I have to tell you there is lots of action going on at one time and you are on such a rollercoaster and it is so intense and yet you are so in love with the two characters wishing they would hurry up and admit how they feel. but isn't that the way it always is. It is a great read - and I cannot wait to read the rest of the Coven Enforcers series and anything else by Ann Gimpel.
This is a Magnificent paranormal romance story. It will leave you feeling happy and pulling for the enforcers. Again what a Fantastic start to a series, it's scorching hot, sexy, it has paranormal romance with a attitude. If this is not the kind of stuff you like to read, skip this book. However, if you're a fan of all things paranormal, sexual tension, action and humor, this is perfect for you. Enjoy! If you love paranormal romance and in need of a pick up this is definitely a fabulous choice for your TBR list. I recommend this book to everyone who loves a good paranormal story.
If you believe in the world of paranormal romance then the possibilities are endless and fascinating.
by Ann Gimpel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ann Gimpel never disappoints! Blood and Magic is completely phenomenal! I absolutely love this paranormal sexy storyline , and I can't wait to read the next installment in this series! When I read the excerpt and thought oh this would be a awesome story to read. WOW! but then I started reading it and saw how intense this was you get pull into it right away and can I tell you if this is a fantastic book you are darn right this is a awesome book. The Storyline is exciting, sensual and I really got involved with the characters. I love reading a story that the main characters have a lots of tension between them and they have something special about their romance, but this is a story with everything you want in a paranormal romance, which added a few layers of suspense to the plot,and had me wondering all the way through what was what. It wasn't obvious what would happen until the final pages that all the ends were tied up (in a most satisfactory manner, I might add). It’s a combination of strong characters, exciting plot, and a budding romance. This is the first of Coven Enforcers books that I have read and now I'm on the edge of my seat to read more. I have to tell you there is lots of action going on at one time and you are on such a rollercoaster and it is so intense and yet you are so in love with the two characters wishing they would hurry up and admit how they feel. but isn't that the way it always is. It is a great read - and I cannot wait to read the rest of the Coven Enforcers series and anything else by Ann Gimpel.
This is a Magnificent paranormal romance story. It will leave you feeling happy and pulling for the enforcers. Again what a Fantastic start to a series, it's scorching hot, sexy, it has paranormal romance with a attitude. If this is not the kind of stuff you like to read, skip this book. However, if you're a fan of all things paranormal, sexual tension, action and humor, this is perfect for you. Enjoy! If you love paranormal romance and in need of a pick up this is definitely a fabulous choice for your TBR list. I recommend this book to everyone who loves a good paranormal story.
If you believe in the world of paranormal romance then the possibilities are endless and fascinating.
February 23, 2017
Very well written story! It just flowed along and caught my attention! This book is essentially about Abigail and Luke. We learn how Luke got involved with magic and his duty as an enforcer. We also learn about the dark magic and that it is spreading. There is mystery, action, romance and humor! An excellent book which I enjoyed and hope you will as well!
August 21, 2016
Title: Blood and Magic
Series: Coven Enforcers
Note: Book 1 but has a full ending
Author: Ann Gimpel
This is my review of Blood and Magic, book 1 in The Coven Enforcers Series. I got this first book in the series free in exchange for an honest review. This is a part of a good world and it can be read as a standalone and it does not have a cliffhanger ending. Despite the length it does move at a good pace and keeps you interested. Do keep in mind that characters that are mentioned in this book are part of book 2 so you will be wanting to read that as soon as possible, I went straight from book 1 to book 2.
The story starts out when Luke is a young man who tries to deny the magic that the local wizard says he has. One night his family is attacked by Wraiths and he is forced to go get help for them from the very same man. The man is unable to help but Luke goes back to try to save his family and in the process ends up unleashing his very powerful magic and then is forced to learn about it. Fast forward in time and you meet a grown up Luke who has become an undercover Coven Enforcer with great power. He has joined onto a stagecoach trip where Abigail is chaperoning the trip of a 12 year old child. Almost immediately he realizes something is wrong with the little girl and so does Abigail. In the middle of dealing with issues with the child they both fall for each other and after seemingly dealing with the issue disaster strikes and Luke is forced to ask his fellow enforcers to put their lives on the line to help save the woman he loves, feeling he isn't sure she even reciprocates. Will they be able to fix the problem, save the girl, save the woman, figure out the mystery and have their happy ever after? Or will this situation end like way too many Luke has dealt with since getting his powers. This book includes wild moves, mad wolves, wraiths, dark mages, witches, and lots of hot enforcers. I do love the fact it is set back in older times and has a steampunk vibe and that gives it an edge over competition like this.
Series: Coven Enforcers
Note: Book 1 but has a full ending
Author: Ann Gimpel
This is my review of Blood and Magic, book 1 in The Coven Enforcers Series. I got this first book in the series free in exchange for an honest review. This is a part of a good world and it can be read as a standalone and it does not have a cliffhanger ending. Despite the length it does move at a good pace and keeps you interested. Do keep in mind that characters that are mentioned in this book are part of book 2 so you will be wanting to read that as soon as possible, I went straight from book 1 to book 2.
The story starts out when Luke is a young man who tries to deny the magic that the local wizard says he has. One night his family is attacked by Wraiths and he is forced to go get help for them from the very same man. The man is unable to help but Luke goes back to try to save his family and in the process ends up unleashing his very powerful magic and then is forced to learn about it. Fast forward in time and you meet a grown up Luke who has become an undercover Coven Enforcer with great power. He has joined onto a stagecoach trip where Abigail is chaperoning the trip of a 12 year old child. Almost immediately he realizes something is wrong with the little girl and so does Abigail. In the middle of dealing with issues with the child they both fall for each other and after seemingly dealing with the issue disaster strikes and Luke is forced to ask his fellow enforcers to put their lives on the line to help save the woman he loves, feeling he isn't sure she even reciprocates. Will they be able to fix the problem, save the girl, save the woman, figure out the mystery and have their happy ever after? Or will this situation end like way too many Luke has dealt with since getting his powers. This book includes wild moves, mad wolves, wraiths, dark mages, witches, and lots of hot enforcers. I do love the fact it is set back in older times and has a steampunk vibe and that gives it an edge over competition like this.
August 26, 2016
I have long been a fan of books that cross genres and of those that put a new spin on history. The Coven Enforcer Series by Ann Gimpel does a fantastic job of feeding those two hungers of mine, and then some. The series has been well-crafted so that magic doesn’t seem like an add-on, as it can be in books that attempt to weave magic into history. The series is set in the United States in the mid-1800s and Ann Gimple has obviously studied American History because she includes facts about what is going on at that time and what life was like in the western part of the country. Aside from the attention to detail regarding history, which some authors writing historical fiction don’t bother with, Ms. Gimpel has gifted her readers with excellent storytelling. The characters in this story are very believable in their flawed humanness (even if most of them aren’t exactly what you’d call “human”), even if some of the situations require some major suspension of disbelief on the part of the reader. I simply strapped in and enjoyed the ride.
This first outing in the series, Blood and Magic, tells Luke and Abigail’s story. It sets the scene for the rest of the series quite nicely while not giving the romance between Coven Enforcer and Coven witch short shrift. As with most novels in the Romance genre, the hero and heroine are pretty quick to fall into lust, at least. However, because magic is also involved, particularly Black Magic, chaos ensues and complications arise. Because I knew this book was but the first in a series, I was afraid that I’d be hit with the more and more common cliffhanger ending, and I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn’t.
The entire series is fast-paced and exciting, with a lot of fight scenes between good and evil. Even some gods appear to enjoy the show! There are numerous, explicit sex scenes so the series as a whole should be reserved for readers 18+ who enjoy blended genres as much as I do.
Reviewed by HR Duby for Romance Authors that Rock
This first outing in the series, Blood and Magic, tells Luke and Abigail’s story. It sets the scene for the rest of the series quite nicely while not giving the romance between Coven Enforcer and Coven witch short shrift. As with most novels in the Romance genre, the hero and heroine are pretty quick to fall into lust, at least. However, because magic is also involved, particularly Black Magic, chaos ensues and complications arise. Because I knew this book was but the first in a series, I was afraid that I’d be hit with the more and more common cliffhanger ending, and I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn’t.
The entire series is fast-paced and exciting, with a lot of fight scenes between good and evil. Even some gods appear to enjoy the show! There are numerous, explicit sex scenes so the series as a whole should be reserved for readers 18+ who enjoy blended genres as much as I do.
Reviewed by HR Duby for Romance Authors that Rock
August 10, 2016
Unexpected love, is the best love
Abigail Ruskin was hired to travel with Carolyn Giraud, a child, from her hometown to her new home, where her parents are already waiting for her. They are joined from another passenger, Luke Caulfield. During the travel, they are attacked from wraiths, but don’t know why exactly. They have to stop at the next station to wait for the replacement driver, since their first was killed. But it is not over, it has just started.
Abigail is a witch, Luke a mage and an undercover coven enforcer, they have to solve the mystery of what the attackers want, why, if everyone is on the side they claim to be, who betrays them, if there is one who sells them and stay alive, all at the same time. And the attraction between Luke and Abigail grows during their journey.
The story is fast paced, the characters interesting with a well-defined background story and the actual storyline keeps you hooked. You get to know the side characters and how they interact, how their lives are entwined, also the basic rules of this world. The story is set in the Wild West, but is focusing on witches, mages and their fight against the dark & paranormal evil. For me a much needed different read. Ann has developed a great new ‘old’ world and has written a complete and fully solved first story. Definitely a reading recommendation when you want to try out something else than the standard vampires or shifters.
I received a free advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Abigail Ruskin was hired to travel with Carolyn Giraud, a child, from her hometown to her new home, where her parents are already waiting for her. They are joined from another passenger, Luke Caulfield. During the travel, they are attacked from wraiths, but don’t know why exactly. They have to stop at the next station to wait for the replacement driver, since their first was killed. But it is not over, it has just started.
Abigail is a witch, Luke a mage and an undercover coven enforcer, they have to solve the mystery of what the attackers want, why, if everyone is on the side they claim to be, who betrays them, if there is one who sells them and stay alive, all at the same time. And the attraction between Luke and Abigail grows during their journey.
The story is fast paced, the characters interesting with a well-defined background story and the actual storyline keeps you hooked. You get to know the side characters and how they interact, how their lives are entwined, also the basic rules of this world. The story is set in the Wild West, but is focusing on witches, mages and their fight against the dark & paranormal evil. For me a much needed different read. Ann has developed a great new ‘old’ world and has written a complete and fully solved first story. Definitely a reading recommendation when you want to try out something else than the standard vampires or shifters.
I received a free advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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