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Urban Arcana #1
Motor City Fae
Detroit artist Meagan Kelly has had a strong sixth sense all her life, but that doesn't mean the gorgeous stranger's crazy storythat she's a half-elf, half human heiressis true. But Meagan can't deny the evidence of her own eyeshe's Fae. A tall, blond, handsome, pointy-eared elfand a man she just can't get enough of.
Ric Thornhill's assignment just got a lot more complicated. The more time he spends with Meagan, the harder it is to see her as a political tool to prevent an all-out war between humans and Fae.
Now Meagan's in a race to master her newly released powers in time to prevent the conflict, convince a jealous Queen not to strip Ric of his powers, and find out if she can build a life that straddles two worlds.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2010
11 people are currently reading
793 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Spencer Pape
84 books252 followersCindy Spencer Pape has been, among other things, a banker, a teacher, and an elected politician, though she swears she got better. She volunteers in environmental education, when she can fit it in around writing. She lives in Michigan with her husband, two teenage sons, a dog, a lizard, and various other small creatures, all of which are easier to clean up after than the three male humans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 9, 2011
I listened to Motor City Fae as an unabridged audiobook. It is a light and frothy, fun filled read but it goes crazy overboard on the sex scenes. Normally I wouldn’t say such things because a well written and creative sex scene can enliven even the blah-est of stories, even if only for a few minutes, but this time I felt as if I were reading the same scene over and over and it got a bit stale and same-old. Yeah, I know the heroine has soggy panty syndrome and the hero has a huge one that hardens when the wind blows (so embarrassing, really, considering the poor sucker wears tights quite often) but do those issues need to continually be shoved in my face? Even I can only take so much before my ears begin to bleed.
And speaking of bleeding ears I will head straight to the narration. Simply put it ruins the story. The narrator’s deadpan and slow as hell reading of the text saps the life out of the book and the characters. There is no emotion put into the reading and seeing as most of the book takes place in “the motor city”, this narrator with her Irish or British accent (sorry I couldn’t pinpoint it), really threw me off and out of the story. Her faux American accent, mainly the portrayal of the heroine, was terribly grating. Choosing this woman as the narrator was a weird choice, she’d be much better suited to a darker edged Maeve Binchy novel than this piece of sexy fae fluff. That’s all I’m saying.
Other than that, I very much enjoyed this story. It was an infectious read, that doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously and gleefully borrows its world building and descriptions from everywhere. I’m good with that because the characters have spark, chemistry and charm and honestly I just have a thing for long haired elves with pointy ears and big eyes.
You won’t find anything new in this plot. A handsome fae bard named Ric (Alaric), is sent on a mission to locate the long missing princess/missing heir in order to retain her place of power. There’s a vote or something that is going to happen and the Queen needs the heir in order to tip the scales in her favor. She sends Ric because he’s her favorite plaything and she knows he’ll charm the gal into doing exactly what she orders.
Meagan is one of those free-spirited, go with the flow artsy type heroines that have been around since the dawn of romance. She is immediately smitten with Ric, even before she sees his true elf form, and pretty much swallows whatever he offers up (read into that whatever you wish) but she’s not stupid and so airy-fairy that she can’t think things through and fend for herself when necessary. But don’t worry there’s nothing heavy here. There’s minor danger but no real sense of doom and gloom and any deep potentially fiery obstacles were brushed away with pleasantries and everything was A-ok again. It’s just a fun fantasy with a lot of sex. Decent but probably not memorable. I’ll read the next though, just not in audio format.
And speaking of bleeding ears I will head straight to the narration. Simply put it ruins the story. The narrator’s deadpan and slow as hell reading of the text saps the life out of the book and the characters. There is no emotion put into the reading and seeing as most of the book takes place in “the motor city”, this narrator with her Irish or British accent (sorry I couldn’t pinpoint it), really threw me off and out of the story. Her faux American accent, mainly the portrayal of the heroine, was terribly grating. Choosing this woman as the narrator was a weird choice, she’d be much better suited to a darker edged Maeve Binchy novel than this piece of sexy fae fluff. That’s all I’m saying.
Other than that, I very much enjoyed this story. It was an infectious read, that doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously and gleefully borrows its world building and descriptions from everywhere. I’m good with that because the characters have spark, chemistry and charm and honestly I just have a thing for long haired elves with pointy ears and big eyes.
You won’t find anything new in this plot. A handsome fae bard named Ric (Alaric), is sent on a mission to locate the long missing princess/missing heir in order to retain her place of power. There’s a vote or something that is going to happen and the Queen needs the heir in order to tip the scales in her favor. She sends Ric because he’s her favorite plaything and she knows he’ll charm the gal into doing exactly what she orders.
Meagan is one of those free-spirited, go with the flow artsy type heroines that have been around since the dawn of romance. She is immediately smitten with Ric, even before she sees his true elf form, and pretty much swallows whatever he offers up (read into that whatever you wish) but she’s not stupid and so airy-fairy that she can’t think things through and fend for herself when necessary. But don’t worry there’s nothing heavy here. There’s minor danger but no real sense of doom and gloom and any deep potentially fiery obstacles were brushed away with pleasantries and everything was A-ok again. It’s just a fun fantasy with a lot of sex. Decent but probably not memorable. I’ll read the next though, just not in audio format.
April 17, 2014
Motor City Fae was sexy but fun. I loved both of the leads: artist Meghan, who learns the surprising truth about her birth parents, and musician Ric, who is both bard and spy for the Fae Queen - Ric is tasked to find the lost heiress or suffer dire consequences. I really liked the romance between Meghan and Ric and the fact that they are both so surprised by the attraction between them. I also really liked that the obstacles that they have to overcome to be together are external ones. And I was happy that Meghan, even being new to the Fae world, is both smart enough and also strong enough at one point to facilitate her own rescue.
To make things even better, there are a slew of interesting supporting characters positioned for future books. I also really liked having the story centered around Fae doings, it was a nice change of pace, there's not too many Fae-centeric series in mainstream PNR now days.
So bottom line, Motor City Fae was pretty steamy but was still sweet. I enjoyed this Urban Arcana series starter (which was still a cheapie from Carina press at the time of this review) so much that I bought the next book Motor City Witch and put the third book Motor City Wolf on pre-order.
To make things even better, there are a slew of interesting supporting characters positioned for future books. I also really liked having the story centered around Fae doings, it was a nice change of pace, there's not too many Fae-centeric series in mainstream PNR now days.
So bottom line, Motor City Fae was pretty steamy but was still sweet. I enjoyed this Urban Arcana series starter (which was still a cheapie from Carina press at the time of this review) so much that I bought the next book Motor City Witch and put the third book Motor City Wolf on pre-order.
June 24, 2010
Ric Thornhill is on an assignment from the Queen of Fae herself, to find the missing half Fae heir. Artist Meagan Kelly is his target and he must bring her back to the queen to help stop keep the delicate peace between both human and Fae that hangs in the balance. As soon as they meet, sparks fly. Meagan is confused about the power the mysterious blond stranger has over her and Ric is enamored by Meagan's beauty and energy. Can he put his feelings aside to finish the mission that will safe their people?
Being a Fae fanatic I had to have this book. With the gorgeous cover (which appeared more urban fantasy than the actual paranormal romance story itself), enticing blurb and being eager to try out Carina's new books, I jumped at the chance to read this galley (thank you Carina for no DRM and changeable formats).
Unfortunately, I had a hard time connecting with the characters and the world within Motor City Fae. The hero and heroine's feelings at their first meeting had a 'hit the ground and start running feel to it rather than allowing for tension and chemistry grow between the two. This would have nicely built up a way for the reader to root for them and also would have given the reader time to get to know the characters rather than constantly be told explicit descriptions of how body parts were affected by the other. There is an explicit sex scene towards the beginning that pushes this into erotica territory for me and the characters couldn't make a move without getting turned on or thinking about sex. Plot seems to have been thrown aside at this point in the story. I would have loved to have gotten to know the characters more and had the tension build until a later love scene which seals the deal between the two so it doesn't feel like a gimmick to keep the reader interested.
As mentioned before, the world building could have been more established early on to bring the reader into the plot. There were many instances of long expositions where Ric would tell Meagan who her family was, what the Fae were all about and how she tied into the Fae realm. In other instances, there were short cuts where some good description would help this reader imagine the uniqueness of the land and its people (for instance, the court members were described as "looking like a character from Lord of the Rings"). The story mainly spends its time laying things out via a road trip and other excursions despite the rush to get Meagan to the Fae realm before it's too late. Once the characters would attempt to go in a direction to move the plot to the next level, they would make a detour to a club or party which seemed to come out of nowhere. While good for establishing the setting and character backgrounds, the exposition scenes broke the flow of the story just when we're getting somewhere good.
Shortly after the halfway point, I finally started to get into the story and have a chance to enjoy the world of the Fae. There were only instances where I was yanked out of the story by modern curse words but it was still enjoyable to see more action with Meagan taking out two Fae assassins (with a baseball bat no less!) and having her identify with Ric on a level that didn't involve the physical.
Ms. Pape has the beginnings of a interesting world and I'm curious to see how and if she tackles it down the road. After reading similar favorites in the genre, I can't help but notice how the territory feels traveled but not quite changed enough to make it unique from the others.
All in all, even though the book doesn't break any new ground for the paranormal genre, readers who are looking for an erotic light paranormal romance will enjoy Motor City Fae, the first in the Urban Arcana series.
Galley reviewed via Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher.
Recommended Reads:
Unseelie by Meredith Holmes
Faerie Blood by Angela Korra'ti
The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
Being a Fae fanatic I had to have this book. With the gorgeous cover (which appeared more urban fantasy than the actual paranormal romance story itself), enticing blurb and being eager to try out Carina's new books, I jumped at the chance to read this galley (thank you Carina for no DRM and changeable formats).
Unfortunately, I had a hard time connecting with the characters and the world within Motor City Fae. The hero and heroine's feelings at their first meeting had a 'hit the ground and start running feel to it rather than allowing for tension and chemistry grow between the two. This would have nicely built up a way for the reader to root for them and also would have given the reader time to get to know the characters rather than constantly be told explicit descriptions of how body parts were affected by the other. There is an explicit sex scene towards the beginning that pushes this into erotica territory for me and the characters couldn't make a move without getting turned on or thinking about sex. Plot seems to have been thrown aside at this point in the story. I would have loved to have gotten to know the characters more and had the tension build until a later love scene which seals the deal between the two so it doesn't feel like a gimmick to keep the reader interested.
As mentioned before, the world building could have been more established early on to bring the reader into the plot. There were many instances of long expositions where Ric would tell Meagan who her family was, what the Fae were all about and how she tied into the Fae realm. In other instances, there were short cuts where some good description would help this reader imagine the uniqueness of the land and its people (for instance, the court members were described as "looking like a character from Lord of the Rings"). The story mainly spends its time laying things out via a road trip and other excursions despite the rush to get Meagan to the Fae realm before it's too late. Once the characters would attempt to go in a direction to move the plot to the next level, they would make a detour to a club or party which seemed to come out of nowhere. While good for establishing the setting and character backgrounds, the exposition scenes broke the flow of the story just when we're getting somewhere good.
Shortly after the halfway point, I finally started to get into the story and have a chance to enjoy the world of the Fae. There were only instances where I was yanked out of the story by modern curse words but it was still enjoyable to see more action with Meagan taking out two Fae assassins (with a baseball bat no less!) and having her identify with Ric on a level that didn't involve the physical.
Ms. Pape has the beginnings of a interesting world and I'm curious to see how and if she tackles it down the road. After reading similar favorites in the genre, I can't help but notice how the territory feels traveled but not quite changed enough to make it unique from the others.
All in all, even though the book doesn't break any new ground for the paranormal genre, readers who are looking for an erotic light paranormal romance will enjoy Motor City Fae, the first in the Urban Arcana series.
Galley reviewed via Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher.
Recommended Reads:
Unseelie by Meredith Holmes
Faerie Blood by Angela Korra'ti
The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2011
Here is what goodreads says about Motor City Fae-
Detroit artist Meagan Kelly has had a strong sixth sense all her life, but that doesn't mean the gorgeous stranger's crazy story—that she's a half-elf, half human heiress—is true. But Meagan can't deny the evidence of her own eyes—he's Fae. A tall, blond, handsome, pointy-eared elf—and a man she just can't get enough of.
Ric Thornhill's assignment just got a lot more complicated. The more time he spends with Meagan, the harder it is to see her as a political tool to prevent an all-out war between humans and Fae.
Now Meagan's in a race to master her newly released powers in time to prevent the conflict, convince a jealous Queen not to strip Ric of his powers, and find out if she can build a life that straddles two worlds.
What I thought-
I loved this book. It wasn't quite a 5 star book for me only because I'm not rushing out to read the next in the series to find out what happened. I will say though that there is a draw and if I'm honest I will be reading the others in this series. I think the thing that stands out the most for me is the way the romance even though important is present in the story but there is actual story. I am a die hard urban fantasy fan and if there wasn't any story in this book I probably wouldn't have continued but there was, it was just cleverly mixed up with some romance and a whole hell of a lot of screwing. Overall I recommend this to book to everyone and I'm so glad that I read it.
Detroit artist Meagan Kelly has had a strong sixth sense all her life, but that doesn't mean the gorgeous stranger's crazy story—that she's a half-elf, half human heiress—is true. But Meagan can't deny the evidence of her own eyes—he's Fae. A tall, blond, handsome, pointy-eared elf—and a man she just can't get enough of.
Ric Thornhill's assignment just got a lot more complicated. The more time he spends with Meagan, the harder it is to see her as a political tool to prevent an all-out war between humans and Fae.
Now Meagan's in a race to master her newly released powers in time to prevent the conflict, convince a jealous Queen not to strip Ric of his powers, and find out if she can build a life that straddles two worlds.
What I thought-
I loved this book. It wasn't quite a 5 star book for me only because I'm not rushing out to read the next in the series to find out what happened. I will say though that there is a draw and if I'm honest I will be reading the others in this series. I think the thing that stands out the most for me is the way the romance even though important is present in the story but there is actual story. I am a die hard urban fantasy fan and if there wasn't any story in this book I probably wouldn't have continued but there was, it was just cleverly mixed up with some romance and a whole hell of a lot of screwing. Overall I recommend this to book to everyone and I'm so glad that I read it.
January 2, 2012
I read this for one of my group's BOM, otherwise I'm not sure I would have picked it up. Not that the description didn't sound good, it's just that I didn't know anything about it. In the end, I'm happy with the book. It had a nice mix of romance and plot.
The main character's name is Meagan and she is just a regular old artist that's living in Detroit and she has some weird dreams every once in awhile. When she has a strange dream that's not her usual dose of crazy she gets a little freaked out and wonders what is coming. Well, his name is Ric and he's about to upend Meagan's whole world. He's on a mission to find the heiress to a throne and not just any human throne (because that would be so boring) but a Fae one. And of course, not everyone wants Meagan to get there and there are many assassination attempts and evil doers out to get her and her escort.
So I did like the romance between Meagan and Ric although even for me it was a little instantaneous. I just had to suspend reality and there were a few moments when I said to myself "If I had just met this strange guy would I go run off to a house party with him? Probably not." Other than that, I thought they were cute together and I thought Ric was pretty funny. I liked Meagan and thought she was a nice heroine for the story, although she did believe them pretty quickly about her heritage. I might have questioned a bit more. But still, she had some spunk to her and she definitely wasn't one to pass out and let the manly men handle her problems. Keep an eye out for the baseball bat scene, that was just priceless!
I also liked the little band of side characters that were woven in and out of the main storyline. There were a few that intrigued me and I think the next book might be about some that I would definitely be interested in reading about. The court intrigue and the queen felt like every other book that has a Fae court, except this queen was practically nice. So that was a tad bit boring, I actually could have done with a few more battles and less talking during all those scenes.
I'll definitely be reading the next book in the series although I'm questioning if I want to buy it or wait for the library to find it for me. But I am curious as to what is going to happen next with some of the side characters.
The main character's name is Meagan and she is just a regular old artist that's living in Detroit and she has some weird dreams every once in awhile. When she has a strange dream that's not her usual dose of crazy she gets a little freaked out and wonders what is coming. Well, his name is Ric and he's about to upend Meagan's whole world. He's on a mission to find the heiress to a throne and not just any human throne (because that would be so boring) but a Fae one. And of course, not everyone wants Meagan to get there and there are many assassination attempts and evil doers out to get her and her escort.
So I did like the romance between Meagan and Ric although even for me it was a little instantaneous. I just had to suspend reality and there were a few moments when I said to myself "If I had just met this strange guy would I go run off to a house party with him? Probably not." Other than that, I thought they were cute together and I thought Ric was pretty funny. I liked Meagan and thought she was a nice heroine for the story, although she did believe them pretty quickly about her heritage. I might have questioned a bit more. But still, she had some spunk to her and she definitely wasn't one to pass out and let the manly men handle her problems. Keep an eye out for the baseball bat scene, that was just priceless!
I also liked the little band of side characters that were woven in and out of the main storyline. There were a few that intrigued me and I think the next book might be about some that I would definitely be interested in reading about. The court intrigue and the queen felt like every other book that has a Fae court, except this queen was practically nice. So that was a tad bit boring, I actually could have done with a few more battles and less talking during all those scenes.
I'll definitely be reading the next book in the series although I'm questioning if I want to buy it or wait for the library to find it for me. But I am curious as to what is going to happen next with some of the side characters.
January 14, 2016
I enjoyed Meagan's love for painting and Ric's love of music. The story was a fun quick read with just enough action to keep it it interesting. I liked how Meagan dealt with her new reality. I also loved Elise and can't wait to learn more about her in her book.
November 25, 2023
Take one artist/missing heiress, add in a hot singer dude/undercover agent for the fae queen, danger, assassination attempts, magic, sword fights, and assorted other magical creatures… and you have a very interesting story with a satisfying romance. IMO.
December 8, 2019
This book ended up being a chore.
Meagan meets Ric one afternoon - literally bumping into him. She coincidentally sees him again that night at a club where he is performing. They go on a late night date after the club but he has to bail on her. He shows up at her house at the butt crack of dawn and agrees to go with him to a house party in which guests are staying overnight for several days. Because...networking. Okay, sis.
She gets mad like three hours after being there - to the point that she's like I'm leaving and going home. I don't want to deal with this guy anymore. He proceeds to sit on her block watching her house while she stews over night in her anger. He shows up to her house that morning to apologize and promising to tell the truth. This is 48 hours after meeting this man. They proceed to have sex because she for some reason pounces on him as he begins his explanation. Which he never gets to give her before they have A LOT of sex.
We hear little things like "sorry I came before you" and a lot of "I've never wanted to do this before (as she VIGOROUSLY goes to town on his penis" and whole lot of "I've never been this reckless"... proceeded by lots of unprotected sex. It just read a lot like false modesty.
The linchpin that sealed the deal for me was how useless the heroine was. Just always in peril. Never asked questions and didn't really show any backbone until like the last 15%. She was basic and boring.
Meagan meets Ric one afternoon - literally bumping into him. She coincidentally sees him again that night at a club where he is performing. They go on a late night date after the club but he has to bail on her. He shows up at her house at the butt crack of dawn and agrees to go with him to a house party in which guests are staying overnight for several days. Because...networking. Okay, sis.
She gets mad like three hours after being there - to the point that she's like I'm leaving and going home. I don't want to deal with this guy anymore. He proceeds to sit on her block watching her house while she stews over night in her anger. He shows up to her house that morning to apologize and promising to tell the truth. This is 48 hours after meeting this man. They proceed to have sex because she for some reason pounces on him as he begins his explanation. Which he never gets to give her before they have A LOT of sex.
We hear little things like "sorry I came before you" and a lot of "I've never wanted to do this before (as she VIGOROUSLY goes to town on his penis" and whole lot of "I've never been this reckless"... proceeded by lots of unprotected sex. It just read a lot like false modesty.
The linchpin that sealed the deal for me was how useless the heroine was. Just always in peril. Never asked questions and didn't really show any backbone until like the last 15%. She was basic and boring.
September 27, 2017
Maybe would have been ok, but the narrator made it unlistenable.
July 19, 2011
Ric is a spy for Llyris, Queen of Elfhame. He’s been sent to find Lady Rose and take her back to Underhill, but there’s a problem. Lady Rose doesn’t know she’s Lady Rose and a Halfling—half human and half elf.
When he meets her for the first time she’s Meagan, an artist who teaches others the craft. Something zings between them, and he has a feeling he’s found the woman he seeks. The other problem is, he knows he’s not going to be able to just take her back to Underhill without losing his heart. He senses they’re meant to be together. He’s a musician, and Meagan loves his music. When they meet again at a gig, Meagan also realises there’s more to this guy than at first met the eye.
As the tale progresses and the pair become closer, Meagan discovers who she really is—and who Ric really is. She has family she wasn’t aware of, and Ric takes her to meet her cousin, Aiden, a supremely rich man who lives on an estate that has a gateway to Underhill on it. Meagan also discovers she’s surrounded by witches, werewolves, and other beings, so it’s a lot for her to take in.
Somehow, even though it’s a stretch to expect someone to believe and understand the tale Ric tells her about herself, the people around her, and those in Underhill, she believes. I did too—had no trouble accepting it at all. It was like I was under some spell that made the fantastical utterly believable.
However, there’s a baddie in their midst in the guise of a man named Owain (in our world he’s called Owen), who will stop at nothing to prevent Meagan reaching Underhill. Ric only has a certain amount of time to get her there, so the race is on. Owain is intent on thwarting them at every turn, and when he places a spell at Meagan’s place and she isn’t the one to get hurt by it, I found myself hating him with a vengeance.
Because of Owain and his meddling, all the people Meagan has discovered as otherworldly beings must flee to safety, herself and Ric included. If they’re not around for Owain to discover them, they might make it to Underhill through one of the many other gateways—but who could they trust? Already it was clear there was a traitor in Aiden’s household. I rooted for them to make it, because if they didn’t, Ric faced… Nope, not telling you. Despite a stop along the way that brings more trouble as well as Meagan being able to use her new magical abilities, they arrive at Blaine the Black’s, where Meagan meets a whole host of new people. Soon after, they make it to Underhill, where Owain’s influence is in full swing and trouble meets them there.
Best Bits: The “blinking”, or “poofing” as Meagan called it.
She not only looked idiotic, she probably looked like an idiotic raccoon.
Since he’d turned the bloody thing off the night before… (LOL)
…Meagan thought about telling her to fuck off. (LOL)
She wondered if it worked for laundry, or cleaning bathrooms.
Ear boy.
“It’s pure, fucking, concentrated evil.”
A gay werewolf. That’s something you don’t see on the late-late show.
Fairy. Tale. Palace. On steroids.
Her Royal Bitchiness.
Not even on old reruns of Dynasty.
Verdict: Motor City Fae is a really cool tale where our world mixes with another, with people of many fantasy races, all living together in harmony—until someone like Owain comes along, of course. A delightful read that holds your attention, because there’s something interesting and important going on in every chapter. No “filler” from this author!
When he meets her for the first time she’s Meagan, an artist who teaches others the craft. Something zings between them, and he has a feeling he’s found the woman he seeks. The other problem is, he knows he’s not going to be able to just take her back to Underhill without losing his heart. He senses they’re meant to be together. He’s a musician, and Meagan loves his music. When they meet again at a gig, Meagan also realises there’s more to this guy than at first met the eye.
As the tale progresses and the pair become closer, Meagan discovers who she really is—and who Ric really is. She has family she wasn’t aware of, and Ric takes her to meet her cousin, Aiden, a supremely rich man who lives on an estate that has a gateway to Underhill on it. Meagan also discovers she’s surrounded by witches, werewolves, and other beings, so it’s a lot for her to take in.
Somehow, even though it’s a stretch to expect someone to believe and understand the tale Ric tells her about herself, the people around her, and those in Underhill, she believes. I did too—had no trouble accepting it at all. It was like I was under some spell that made the fantastical utterly believable.
However, there’s a baddie in their midst in the guise of a man named Owain (in our world he’s called Owen), who will stop at nothing to prevent Meagan reaching Underhill. Ric only has a certain amount of time to get her there, so the race is on. Owain is intent on thwarting them at every turn, and when he places a spell at Meagan’s place and she isn’t the one to get hurt by it, I found myself hating him with a vengeance.
Because of Owain and his meddling, all the people Meagan has discovered as otherworldly beings must flee to safety, herself and Ric included. If they’re not around for Owain to discover them, they might make it to Underhill through one of the many other gateways—but who could they trust? Already it was clear there was a traitor in Aiden’s household. I rooted for them to make it, because if they didn’t, Ric faced… Nope, not telling you. Despite a stop along the way that brings more trouble as well as Meagan being able to use her new magical abilities, they arrive at Blaine the Black’s, where Meagan meets a whole host of new people. Soon after, they make it to Underhill, where Owain’s influence is in full swing and trouble meets them there.
Best Bits: The “blinking”, or “poofing” as Meagan called it.
She not only looked idiotic, she probably looked like an idiotic raccoon.
Since he’d turned the bloody thing off the night before… (LOL)
…Meagan thought about telling her to fuck off. (LOL)
She wondered if it worked for laundry, or cleaning bathrooms.
Ear boy.
“It’s pure, fucking, concentrated evil.”
A gay werewolf. That’s something you don’t see on the late-late show.
Fairy. Tale. Palace. On steroids.
Her Royal Bitchiness.
Not even on old reruns of Dynasty.
Verdict: Motor City Fae is a really cool tale where our world mixes with another, with people of many fantasy races, all living together in harmony—until someone like Owain comes along, of course. A delightful read that holds your attention, because there’s something interesting and important going on in every chapter. No “filler” from this author!
March 13, 2011
A couple months ago, I got a Nook Color, and I’ve read about a book a day ever since. Earlier this week, I came across Motor City Fae, by Cindy Spencer Pape.
Authors, editors, and publishers often wonder how people come across books, so I’ll tell you how I found Cindy Spencer Pape. Like many with an eReader, I am not wild about agency pricing for eBooks, so I have been sniffing through the good indie presses. There are differences in tone and pace at the indies - it seems to me that my made-for-indie eBooks move at a breakneck pace in comparison to books that are originally print and then converted to eBook format. Stylistic differences aside, good reads are to be had at both indie and agency pubs.
Dear Author has talked a bit about how in this new deluge of digital info, how will readers find good books? By following authors? Editors? I decided to try following an editor, Angela James of Carina Press, because I follow her on FB and Twitter, and I’ve taken her writing workshop (I’m a tech editor by trade, but there’s always room for improvement). She (and Carina in general) have some smart, savvy ideas about what makes a good read, and how eBooks are the future.
(Disclaimer time: I am loosely associated with Dark Roast Press, and do eBook layout and typeset, though not as much as I used to. I can’t talk about eBooks at all without giving them and their awesome authors and editors a shout out.)
Back to Ms. James and the awesome Cindy Spencer Pape. My tastes in romance are very much like my tastes in GenFic. I don’t read contemporary GenFic, or romance, and I read tons of urban fantasy, paranormal, historical, and sci-fi/fantasy/SpecFic. I read Lit Fic too, but that area of publishing is just not getting on the eBook train fast enough to suit my liking. C’mon Salt Publishing, get some eBooks that I can buy on this side of the pond!
My eyes kept wandering back to Motor City Fae as I clicked around the site. The cover was pretty, and I liked the excerpt. That is my process on any book, e- or print, btw. 1. Ooh, shiny! 2. Read blurb. Interesting? Y/N? N: move on, or Y. 3. Read excerpt.
Ms. Pape did a great job in worldbuilding in MCF. Given my personal tastes, a weak worldbuilding experience is a total turn off. I loved how the Fae world and mundane overlapped in creative and unexpected ways.
Meagan and Ric, the leads, had great chemistry. Now, Ms. Pape writes for Ellora’s Cave as well as Carina, and it shows - her love scenes are scotching hot - but if sex in an eBook is not your thing, or you think it’s a substitute for actual chemistry/plot, let me assure you that even without the sex scenes, you’d have an emotional, tightly-paced story. I gobbled the book up in a day, and then promptly went back to Carina and downloaded Motor City Witch. I’ll have to give it its own impromptu review, but suffice to say that I love this series, and I’ll be pre-ordering Motor City Werewolf as soon as it’s available. I’m also going to try her upcoming Steam & Sorcery. Steampunk is hit or miss for me - when it’s done well, I adore it, and when it’s not, it makes me twitch. Given how much I adored the Motor City series, I’m looking forward to giving it a try.
by Heather, originally posted at my Tumblr.
Authors, editors, and publishers often wonder how people come across books, so I’ll tell you how I found Cindy Spencer Pape. Like many with an eReader, I am not wild about agency pricing for eBooks, so I have been sniffing through the good indie presses. There are differences in tone and pace at the indies - it seems to me that my made-for-indie eBooks move at a breakneck pace in comparison to books that are originally print and then converted to eBook format. Stylistic differences aside, good reads are to be had at both indie and agency pubs.
Dear Author has talked a bit about how in this new deluge of digital info, how will readers find good books? By following authors? Editors? I decided to try following an editor, Angela James of Carina Press, because I follow her on FB and Twitter, and I’ve taken her writing workshop (I’m a tech editor by trade, but there’s always room for improvement). She (and Carina in general) have some smart, savvy ideas about what makes a good read, and how eBooks are the future.
(Disclaimer time: I am loosely associated with Dark Roast Press, and do eBook layout and typeset, though not as much as I used to. I can’t talk about eBooks at all without giving them and their awesome authors and editors a shout out.)
Back to Ms. James and the awesome Cindy Spencer Pape. My tastes in romance are very much like my tastes in GenFic. I don’t read contemporary GenFic, or romance, and I read tons of urban fantasy, paranormal, historical, and sci-fi/fantasy/SpecFic. I read Lit Fic too, but that area of publishing is just not getting on the eBook train fast enough to suit my liking. C’mon Salt Publishing, get some eBooks that I can buy on this side of the pond!
My eyes kept wandering back to Motor City Fae as I clicked around the site. The cover was pretty, and I liked the excerpt. That is my process on any book, e- or print, btw. 1. Ooh, shiny! 2. Read blurb. Interesting? Y/N? N: move on, or Y. 3. Read excerpt.
Ms. Pape did a great job in worldbuilding in MCF. Given my personal tastes, a weak worldbuilding experience is a total turn off. I loved how the Fae world and mundane overlapped in creative and unexpected ways.
Meagan and Ric, the leads, had great chemistry. Now, Ms. Pape writes for Ellora’s Cave as well as Carina, and it shows - her love scenes are scotching hot - but if sex in an eBook is not your thing, or you think it’s a substitute for actual chemistry/plot, let me assure you that even without the sex scenes, you’d have an emotional, tightly-paced story. I gobbled the book up in a day, and then promptly went back to Carina and downloaded Motor City Witch. I’ll have to give it its own impromptu review, but suffice to say that I love this series, and I’ll be pre-ordering Motor City Werewolf as soon as it’s available. I’m also going to try her upcoming Steam & Sorcery. Steampunk is hit or miss for me - when it’s done well, I adore it, and when it’s not, it makes me twitch. Given how much I adored the Motor City series, I’m looking forward to giving it a try.
by Heather, originally posted at my Tumblr.
June 27, 2010
Minor Spoilers in my review, it was hard to express some of my feelings about the book with taking certain examples from the story.
I really enjoyed so many things about this book. Firstly it was very easy to get involved in the story. The story line was very original as far as fantasy books involving Fae and other magical creatures go. The story never got boring or slow, it kept me turning pages until the very end. I loved that she gave detailed descriptions of the characters and of the fantasy world she created in her story without going overboard and killing you with the details. I loved that Meagan is strong and successful and can do things all by herself and doesn't rely anyone to take care of her and do everything for her even after she falls in love. Most everything about the book was great but there were a few things that could have been changed that would have made me, personally enjoy it more. One thing in the story that I didn't enjoy so much because it was so overdone was there were too many sex scenes. It seems that Meagan and Ric could never ever ever be alone together without ripping each others clothes off. I guess I just expected a little more of a fantasy, romance type book and less erotica to me 20 sex scenes isn't romance it's just sex. After a few times reading page after page of sex I found myself skimming which was frustrating because there were so many exciting things going on in the story that I would have liked to keep reading about. Also there really isn't much of a climax to the story. There is so much build up of the danger to Meagan and so many people assigned to protect her, but when it finally comes down to it three (ish) pages later she is fine and all the worry is over and and everyone goes to live happily ever after. Don't get me wrong I love a good happily ever after I just like when they really have to work at it, and there are some major nail biting parts before they get there. This is the first in the series though so the author may just be getting started with the intense action. I guess my biggest complaint about the book is all of the build up to so many problems and dangers and then feeling like the parts that should be the most intense and all of the things you have been waiting for are skimmed over. Like with Ric's relationship with the queen, he is so terrified for her to find out how he feels for Meagan and spends page after page worrying and trying to find a solution and then Meagan gets snotty and says something really obvious to the queen and the queen almost smiles, gives up and everything is over.
I feel like I have spent too much time on the negatives though, I really had a fun time reading this book and it is definitely a series I would continue to read. With a little more action and a little less build up in the next books it would totally fix 99% of my complaints about this book, the other 1% would be 2 or 3 less sex scenes.
I really enjoyed so many things about this book. Firstly it was very easy to get involved in the story. The story line was very original as far as fantasy books involving Fae and other magical creatures go. The story never got boring or slow, it kept me turning pages until the very end. I loved that she gave detailed descriptions of the characters and of the fantasy world she created in her story without going overboard and killing you with the details. I loved that Meagan is strong and successful and can do things all by herself and doesn't rely anyone to take care of her and do everything for her even after she falls in love. Most everything about the book was great but there were a few things that could have been changed that would have made me, personally enjoy it more. One thing in the story that I didn't enjoy so much because it was so overdone was there were too many sex scenes. It seems that Meagan and Ric could never ever ever be alone together without ripping each others clothes off. I guess I just expected a little more of a fantasy, romance type book and less erotica to me 20 sex scenes isn't romance it's just sex. After a few times reading page after page of sex I found myself skimming which was frustrating because there were so many exciting things going on in the story that I would have liked to keep reading about. Also there really isn't much of a climax to the story. There is so much build up of the danger to Meagan and so many people assigned to protect her, but when it finally comes down to it three (ish) pages later she is fine and all the worry is over and and everyone goes to live happily ever after. Don't get me wrong I love a good happily ever after I just like when they really have to work at it, and there are some major nail biting parts before they get there. This is the first in the series though so the author may just be getting started with the intense action. I guess my biggest complaint about the book is all of the build up to so many problems and dangers and then feeling like the parts that should be the most intense and all of the things you have been waiting for are skimmed over. Like with Ric's relationship with the queen, he is so terrified for her to find out how he feels for Meagan and spends page after page worrying and trying to find a solution and then Meagan gets snotty and says something really obvious to the queen and the queen almost smiles, gives up and everything is over.
I feel like I have spent too much time on the negatives though, I really had a fun time reading this book and it is definitely a series I would continue to read. With a little more action and a little less build up in the next books it would totally fix 99% of my complaints about this book, the other 1% would be 2 or 3 less sex scenes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2011
Motor City Fae was an unexpected treat. I mean, I don't typically request review copies of books I don't think I'll enjoy, but I wasn't prepared to be engrossed in this book the way that I was. The characters were interesting and well developed, the romance was sweet and engaging, and the supernatural elements involving the fae were interesting as well. I wouldn't go so far as to say that this book teachers the old dog elements of the genre new tricks, so to speak, but it was definitely an enjoyable way to spend a Friday evening and sent me scurrying back to NetGalley in hopes of securing the sequel (which I did.)
Meagan Kelly is likable enough- she's an artist with a whimsical personality, a great cast of friends and a boatload of talent. She's no rockstar but she's content in her life and how it's going. When she ends up at a friend's bar after a serendipitous meeting with a super hot guy outside the community center where she teachers art and magically, the same guy is the featured musician for the night, she's excited. Little does she know that Ric Thornhill is three things: hot, as she figured on her own, not human, as she quickly figures out, and not the bearer of good news, which is sad news for her.
It seems Miss Meagan is actually the long lost heir to a powerful Fae household, and her vote is needed to keep the current queen on the throne and prevent a truly evil bad guy from usurping the throne and the power that goes with it. Ric's been charged with bringing Meagan back to Faerie in one piece, ready to cast the vote needed to maintain safety and the status quo. He's on a tight time schedule, thanks to the queen's whims, and the interference by the Supreme Bad Guy only puts Meagan in danger and endangers them getting to the church on time, so to speak. In the process, they run across a wide variety of supernatural folks who make up the supporting cast, and it's the relationships that emerge between these characters and the history they all have with each other that make this story memorable.
Meagan and Ric do fall in love, and they do have to figure out how they're going to be together in the face of pretty serious outside influences (being the plaything of the queen of the fae makes for sticky situations, don't you know) but there's never a sense of despair, only one of hope. I found myself wanting to know more about the world where the story was set and wanting to know more about the motives and entanglements of the characters. I was stoked to find out that the next book in the series is already available and the third one is due out this summer!
If you're looking for a fun, detailed read with a great romance and not too much spice (enough to get the job done though, don't get me wrong) then Motor City Fae is a definite option for you.
Overall Grade: A-
Check out more reviews and other good stuff at What Book is That?!
Meagan Kelly is likable enough- she's an artist with a whimsical personality, a great cast of friends and a boatload of talent. She's no rockstar but she's content in her life and how it's going. When she ends up at a friend's bar after a serendipitous meeting with a super hot guy outside the community center where she teachers art and magically, the same guy is the featured musician for the night, she's excited. Little does she know that Ric Thornhill is three things: hot, as she figured on her own, not human, as she quickly figures out, and not the bearer of good news, which is sad news for her.
It seems Miss Meagan is actually the long lost heir to a powerful Fae household, and her vote is needed to keep the current queen on the throne and prevent a truly evil bad guy from usurping the throne and the power that goes with it. Ric's been charged with bringing Meagan back to Faerie in one piece, ready to cast the vote needed to maintain safety and the status quo. He's on a tight time schedule, thanks to the queen's whims, and the interference by the Supreme Bad Guy only puts Meagan in danger and endangers them getting to the church on time, so to speak. In the process, they run across a wide variety of supernatural folks who make up the supporting cast, and it's the relationships that emerge between these characters and the history they all have with each other that make this story memorable.
Meagan and Ric do fall in love, and they do have to figure out how they're going to be together in the face of pretty serious outside influences (being the plaything of the queen of the fae makes for sticky situations, don't you know) but there's never a sense of despair, only one of hope. I found myself wanting to know more about the world where the story was set and wanting to know more about the motives and entanglements of the characters. I was stoked to find out that the next book in the series is already available and the third one is due out this summer!
If you're looking for a fun, detailed read with a great romance and not too much spice (enough to get the job done though, don't get me wrong) then Motor City Fae is a definite option for you.
Overall Grade: A-
Check out more reviews and other good stuff at What Book is That?!
December 25, 2011
I'm a well-documented sucker for books involving the Sidhe, as one would guess given that I've actually written one! But that's also a bane when it comes to writing reviews of similar books, on the grounds that I have to acknowledge a certain "but I would have done it differently" factor. Such is the case for me with Cindy Spencer Pape's Motor City Fae, the first of her Urban Arcana series.
We fire this one up with a pretty standard urban fantasy/paranormal romance trope: surprise, heroine! You're not human! You have paranormal blood and abilities, and by extension, this does mean that yes, magic is real, here's an unbelievably gorgeous paranormal-type love interest for you, and oh hey here's a threat to your life as well. In this particular case, the heroine is the artist Meagan Kelley and the unbelievably gorgeous love interest is the elf Ric Thornhill. Much is made over how gorgeous these two find each other, and unfortunately, I'm also well-documented as preferring less overt sex in a plot. So that this book was frequently sexually explicit was a strike against it for me. Mind you, I'm not saying the characters didn't have chemistry or a good relationship; it's just that it was more explicit than I tend to go for. So if you dive into this one, know that going in. People who like more explicit paranormal romance will probably eat this one up.
That said, though, I did like several other aspects of the book, I'll grant. There's some decently suspenseful bits here and some good action scenes, once things actually get rolling past the "how hot do the lead characters find each other?" stage. And I did appreciate the way the author acknowledged that just because the fae are magical does not mean they're turning up their noses at the use of modern technology.
I've already got Book 2, so I will be reading that. But by and large, this one didn't quite work for me. Two stars.
We fire this one up with a pretty standard urban fantasy/paranormal romance trope: surprise, heroine! You're not human! You have paranormal blood and abilities, and by extension, this does mean that yes, magic is real, here's an unbelievably gorgeous paranormal-type love interest for you, and oh hey here's a threat to your life as well. In this particular case, the heroine is the artist Meagan Kelley and the unbelievably gorgeous love interest is the elf Ric Thornhill. Much is made over how gorgeous these two find each other, and unfortunately, I'm also well-documented as preferring less overt sex in a plot. So that this book was frequently sexually explicit was a strike against it for me. Mind you, I'm not saying the characters didn't have chemistry or a good relationship; it's just that it was more explicit than I tend to go for. So if you dive into this one, know that going in. People who like more explicit paranormal romance will probably eat this one up.
That said, though, I did like several other aspects of the book, I'll grant. There's some decently suspenseful bits here and some good action scenes, once things actually get rolling past the "how hot do the lead characters find each other?" stage. And I did appreciate the way the author acknowledged that just because the fae are magical does not mean they're turning up their noses at the use of modern technology.
I've already got Book 2, so I will be reading that. But by and large, this one didn't quite work for me. Two stars.
September 1, 2010
*Review ARC from Netgalley*
In Detroit, Megan believes her dreams are her inspiration for her art. She is unaware thta she paints the landscapes of Underhill, the Fae realm where her father was once know as Lord Rose. Underhill is facing rebellion and the Queen has sent her favoured bard, Alaric to find Megan and secure her vote. Blissfully ignorant of any ulterior motive, Meagan is stunned by her attraction to the mysterious Ric. Alaric can't hide teh truth of his mission for long, Owain is determined to stop Megan casting her vote and wreak vegenance on the human world.
Megan is likeable, showing common sense and self reliance when its called upon. She has some amusing one liners and makes some witty observations which demonstrate a sense of humor. The character takes an awful lot on faith though and it seems she should have been a little more thrown by the truth of her parentage.
Alaric is a stereotypical hero, there are some interesting glimpses into his background but weren't quite developed well enough to give him enough depth.
While Motor City Fae is a paranormal romance, it nudges the erotica genre with several explicit and hot, lust fuelled encounters between Megan and Ric. I think these were well written and certainly the quickest way to ensure trust and intimacy between the two characters.
The plot of Motor City Fae is reasonably solid. It would benefit from the timeline being tweaked as the sense of urgency that the plot is based on stalls at certain points. The climax fades a little with convenient resolutions but there is a satisfying HEA for romance fans.
The book has some interesting potential as a series. There is a variety of supernatural beings to provide interest, as well as the ability to shift easily between worlds and even places giving the author plenty of opportunity to explore.
Motor City Fae is a light, sexy paranormal romance that is an entertaining read with lots of potential to become a strong series.
In Detroit, Megan believes her dreams are her inspiration for her art. She is unaware thta she paints the landscapes of Underhill, the Fae realm where her father was once know as Lord Rose. Underhill is facing rebellion and the Queen has sent her favoured bard, Alaric to find Megan and secure her vote. Blissfully ignorant of any ulterior motive, Meagan is stunned by her attraction to the mysterious Ric. Alaric can't hide teh truth of his mission for long, Owain is determined to stop Megan casting her vote and wreak vegenance on the human world.
Megan is likeable, showing common sense and self reliance when its called upon. She has some amusing one liners and makes some witty observations which demonstrate a sense of humor. The character takes an awful lot on faith though and it seems she should have been a little more thrown by the truth of her parentage.
Alaric is a stereotypical hero, there are some interesting glimpses into his background but weren't quite developed well enough to give him enough depth.
While Motor City Fae is a paranormal romance, it nudges the erotica genre with several explicit and hot, lust fuelled encounters between Megan and Ric. I think these were well written and certainly the quickest way to ensure trust and intimacy between the two characters.
The plot of Motor City Fae is reasonably solid. It would benefit from the timeline being tweaked as the sense of urgency that the plot is based on stalls at certain points. The climax fades a little with convenient resolutions but there is a satisfying HEA for romance fans.
The book has some interesting potential as a series. There is a variety of supernatural beings to provide interest, as well as the ability to shift easily between worlds and even places giving the author plenty of opportunity to explore.
Motor City Fae is a light, sexy paranormal romance that is an entertaining read with lots of potential to become a strong series.
October 3, 2014
Check out my other listens at Eargasms Audiobook Reviews
This was a really interesting read. Most of the time the story revolved around the vote at court, so the world building was no as in-depth as I would have liked. It was an interesting story and entertaining just more of a steady flow than fast paced.
Meagan is actually a really awesome chick, I love that she did not go all damsel in distress and helped save herself. I would definitely be interested in hearing more about her powers. I loved her sass!
Ric is yummy and he can sing!! I love a delicious guy who can take charge. I would have liked him a touch more Alpha, although I am sure he has it in him especially after his fighting.
Terrific mixed narrative, easily swaps POV between the two lead characters. I love this style because you get a fuller picture of what everyone is feeling.
The steam is quite smexy! Plenty of hot and heavy action. They have an attraction from the very first touch, so they jump in bed together quickly. I am fine with that, the relationship was believable even with the time frame. Oh la, the smexy is really yummy to read! You'll need to fan your face more than once.
The story is really interesting it just could have used a touch more. A lot of characters are introduced and I am curious to see their stories. This is a promising start to the series. I really hope the other books happen in Detroit. I can't wait to see what happens with these characters.
I listened to the audio-book, the narrator, Terry Donnelly, does a great job. She has distinct voices for each character. The only complaint I have is that the heroine had a slight British accent, even though she was born and raised in Detroit.
This was a really interesting read. Most of the time the story revolved around the vote at court, so the world building was no as in-depth as I would have liked. It was an interesting story and entertaining just more of a steady flow than fast paced.
Meagan is actually a really awesome chick, I love that she did not go all damsel in distress and helped save herself. I would definitely be interested in hearing more about her powers. I loved her sass!
Ric is yummy and he can sing!! I love a delicious guy who can take charge. I would have liked him a touch more Alpha, although I am sure he has it in him especially after his fighting.
Terrific mixed narrative, easily swaps POV between the two lead characters. I love this style because you get a fuller picture of what everyone is feeling.
The steam is quite smexy! Plenty of hot and heavy action. They have an attraction from the very first touch, so they jump in bed together quickly. I am fine with that, the relationship was believable even with the time frame. Oh la, the smexy is really yummy to read! You'll need to fan your face more than once.
The story is really interesting it just could have used a touch more. A lot of characters are introduced and I am curious to see their stories. This is a promising start to the series. I really hope the other books happen in Detroit. I can't wait to see what happens with these characters.
I listened to the audio-book, the narrator, Terry Donnelly, does a great job. She has distinct voices for each character. The only complaint I have is that the heroine had a slight British accent, even though she was born and raised in Detroit.
December 18, 2011
This book started kind of slow for me and a bit stereotypical, but after I kept plugging at it, it proved to be quite enjoyable.
The book was a bit on the slow end for me until the characters got to the Fae Court. I loved the court intrigue and could have done with a good deal more of it and more development of it. Such as, who else was on the council and more detail about Quinn and Fianna. How is it that she's on Aidan's staff and be Owain's niece.
I also found it irritating that Meagan asked about da,n near everything except two questions that really burned in my mind: Why the hell was Fianna and Sinead being such jerks to her. I wanted Meagan to ask Aidan especially about that, but it turned out that her not asking was a plot device kind of. I wasn't surprised when she turned about to be the saboteur.
I was also annoyed with how easily Meagan took Ric's already established relationship with the queen. I expected the blow up to be a lot bigger to be honest, especially since Ric kept bringing it up and it built to be. It didn't really seem to matter in the end. And the Queen's infamous temper didn't seem to be so intense. She gave in to Meagan and Ric getting married quite easily, in my opinion. In a way it felt as if that whole subplot should have been resolved over another book or two, with more court intrigue.
I don't know if I'm going to read the next books in the series. Especially after I found out that the third is about Fianna. I really hate her and don't want to read her HEA. Right now, as bad as it might sound, I don't think she deserves one.
The book was a bit on the slow end for me until the characters got to the Fae Court. I loved the court intrigue and could have done with a good deal more of it and more development of it. Such as, who else was on the council and more detail about Quinn and Fianna. How is it that she's on Aidan's staff and be Owain's niece.
I also found it irritating that Meagan asked about da,n near everything except two questions that really burned in my mind: Why the hell was Fianna and Sinead being such jerks to her. I wanted Meagan to ask Aidan especially about that, but it turned out that her not asking was a plot device kind of. I wasn't surprised when she turned about to be the saboteur.
I was also annoyed with how easily Meagan took Ric's already established relationship with the queen. I expected the blow up to be a lot bigger to be honest, especially since Ric kept bringing it up and it built to be. It didn't really seem to matter in the end. And the Queen's infamous temper didn't seem to be so intense. She gave in to Meagan and Ric getting married quite easily, in my opinion. In a way it felt as if that whole subplot should have been resolved over another book or two, with more court intrigue.
I don't know if I'm going to read the next books in the series. Especially after I found out that the third is about Fianna. I really hate her and don't want to read her HEA. Right now, as bad as it might sound, I don't think she deserves one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2011
Artist Meagan Kelly has made a success of bringing the fairytale scenes from her dreams to life on canvass. Unfortunately, her adoptive parents never lived to see it. She's considering searching for her birth family when Ric Thornhill finds her. There's more to Ric than a successful music career. He's a fae, and not just any fae, he's been sent by the queen of the fairies to find the daughter of the House of Rose. His scrying techniques lead him to Meagan.
And since the bad guys followed him, they now know where Meagan is. You see, Meagan holds a key vote on the upcoming Seelie council vote. The one that had been held by her murdered father. The one that can decide if the Fae wage war against the humans.
Ric's life depends on him keeping Meagan safe and alive for the upcoming vote. What he doesn't count on is the attraction he feels for her.
Meagan accepts her Fae heritage with remarkable aplomb. Sure, she has a bit of a thing for Ric's pointy ears and she's desperate for a family connection, but nothing seems to faze her. Nothing. Not even learning that she's apparently surrounded herself with otherworldly creatures or that Detroit is pretty much packed with them. That minor grievance aside, Motor City Fae is a fun and lighthearted romp between dimensions. Ms Pape doesn't disappoint is bringing to life the glitter and sparkle of the Fae world, so much that sometimes I felt I'd stepped into a Thomas Kincaid painting. If you're looking to escape into a magical world, I'd recommend picking up a copy of Motor City Fae.
And since the bad guys followed him, they now know where Meagan is. You see, Meagan holds a key vote on the upcoming Seelie council vote. The one that had been held by her murdered father. The one that can decide if the Fae wage war against the humans.
Ric's life depends on him keeping Meagan safe and alive for the upcoming vote. What he doesn't count on is the attraction he feels for her.
Meagan accepts her Fae heritage with remarkable aplomb. Sure, she has a bit of a thing for Ric's pointy ears and she's desperate for a family connection, but nothing seems to faze her. Nothing. Not even learning that she's apparently surrounded herself with otherworldly creatures or that Detroit is pretty much packed with them. That minor grievance aside, Motor City Fae is a fun and lighthearted romp between dimensions. Ms Pape doesn't disappoint is bringing to life the glitter and sparkle of the Fae world, so much that sometimes I felt I'd stepped into a Thomas Kincaid painting. If you're looking to escape into a magical world, I'd recommend picking up a copy of Motor City Fae.
June 4, 2010
Motor City Fae was a light, fun and carefree read with extremely likable characters. I felt as though I had known the characters forever. Each time a new character was introduces, I cared about them wholeheartedly.
There were many erotic sex scenes in this book and the sex was absolutely necessary to the storyline. It was pretty damn hot, too. I'm just not sure it was really necessary for Megan and Ric to have sex so many times. Two or three times would have made the point without making me want to skim past the umpteenth sex scene to get back to the plot.
Supernatural species were very well represented. The story was primarily fae, hence the title, but we also encountered werewolves, witches, brownies, ogres, trolls and more. Truly the full spectrum.
The story is a basic one - guy searches for girl, tells her she's a fae heiress, danger ensues and along the ride, they find they've fallen in love. Replace fae heiress for any other possible revelation, and you've got the plot of a million other books. The major important difference here is that Motor City Fae is so very addictive. The flow of the story made it rather easy to fall into.
The story was a happy one. That isn't to say the story was upbeat or without conflict. It had sweet moments, but mostly it felt warm and natural. Some very clever turns helped the book from seeming completely familiar. Motor City Fae was a feel-good romance. It was peppy and kept a smile on my face throughout the entire story.
There were many erotic sex scenes in this book and the sex was absolutely necessary to the storyline. It was pretty damn hot, too. I'm just not sure it was really necessary for Megan and Ric to have sex so many times. Two or three times would have made the point without making me want to skim past the umpteenth sex scene to get back to the plot.
Supernatural species were very well represented. The story was primarily fae, hence the title, but we also encountered werewolves, witches, brownies, ogres, trolls and more. Truly the full spectrum.
The story is a basic one - guy searches for girl, tells her she's a fae heiress, danger ensues and along the ride, they find they've fallen in love. Replace fae heiress for any other possible revelation, and you've got the plot of a million other books. The major important difference here is that Motor City Fae is so very addictive. The flow of the story made it rather easy to fall into.
The story was a happy one. That isn't to say the story was upbeat or without conflict. It had sweet moments, but mostly it felt warm and natural. Some very clever turns helped the book from seeming completely familiar. Motor City Fae was a feel-good romance. It was peppy and kept a smile on my face throughout the entire story.
October 18, 2011
Meagan Kelley reminds you of the girl next door. She's an artist who doesn't get out much and doesn't remember the last boyfriend she had. Did I mention that Meagan is half-fey but knows nothing about it??? Adopted as a baby, she spends all her time painting and listening to her favorite music artist Ric Thornhill.
Ric Thornhill is your basic Elf musician, who also happens to be a spy for the Seelie Queen. He spends most of his time in the human realm. Ric's newest assignment is to find the lost, Lady Rose, and bring her back to the Queen in time to save both our worlds and his immortality. Did I mention he only has a few days to do this???
Ric and Meagan meet by accident and the sparks begin to fly. Will Meagan be able to believe her ancestry and will Ric be able to keep his heart intact???
I absolutly loved this book. It has all kinds of supernatural creatures like elves, werewolves and witches with a few fey thrown in. It has everything that you would want in a good paranormal book... action, adventure, magic, romance and LOVE!!! They show her enormous imagination and keep you asking for more. I couldn't put the book down till I finished. It hooks you from beginning to end with its HOT romantic fantasy.
I can't wait to read Cindy Spencer Pape's other books.
December 15, 2011
its a goodreads to say for Motor City Fae:
According to me its a five star story:
story start with a search for a missing fea in detroit city.
Meagen Kelly is an artist how is always intuitive skills , but don't know that she is not human, its all confusing for her, with in few day her life change from top to toe, where in her life there was no fun, no change and all of a sudden after an entry of one handsome man in her life and every thing start changing, few people try to kill her, she become rich, an orphan came to learn there is a family in another dimension how are trying to find her from thirty years, she fall in love with an elf and Cherrie on top of the cake she is not human.....crazy for her...
Ric Thornhill an handsome assassin never come across a girl how can stop his heart beat but now he found one, and only aim of his life is to save her from any danger, no matter he have to face anything.
i think story is perfect, according to me its very good you find lots of paranomical creatures in this book. which is the best part, and writer did justice with every creature they introduce in book, everyone has its own powers and use, we can find Elf, shape-shifters, demons, witches... which is the best part in this book.....i also read the other two book of this series and desperately waiting for forth book........
According to me its a five star story:
story start with a search for a missing fea in detroit city.
Meagen Kelly is an artist how is always intuitive skills , but don't know that she is not human, its all confusing for her, with in few day her life change from top to toe, where in her life there was no fun, no change and all of a sudden after an entry of one handsome man in her life and every thing start changing, few people try to kill her, she become rich, an orphan came to learn there is a family in another dimension how are trying to find her from thirty years, she fall in love with an elf and Cherrie on top of the cake she is not human.....crazy for her...
Ric Thornhill an handsome assassin never come across a girl how can stop his heart beat but now he found one, and only aim of his life is to save her from any danger, no matter he have to face anything.
i think story is perfect, according to me its very good you find lots of paranomical creatures in this book. which is the best part, and writer did justice with every creature they introduce in book, everyone has its own powers and use, we can find Elf, shape-shifters, demons, witches... which is the best part in this book.....i also read the other two book of this series and desperately waiting for forth book........
July 16, 2014
Artist Meagan Kelly has always had a feel for things. She knew when good or bad things were about to happen. She never knew why she could sense these things, but she always took them for what they were. When hunky Ric Thornhill tells her it's because she's half-elf, it is a lot to take in but she doesn't have a hard time believing him at his word. A new world is opened up for her, one where she has enemies that don't want her to take part in the important vote being held by the Seelie council.
I loved this story! I have read previous titles from this author so I was pretty positive I'd enjoy this new one. I really liked the meeting of Ric and Meagan. From the moment they cross paths they are attracted to each other. Their attraction is fierce and electric. The story is set in Detroit, which I liked. It was a nice change. I haven't read any stories set there, at least none that I recall. Motor City Fae is filled with intense, sensual scenes. Spencer Pape has created an interesting world that is inhabited by not just fae - but also healers, magic users and shifters. I look forward to reading more about these characters. Wonderfully paced. A captivating read, that keeps you wanting more.
I loved this story! I have read previous titles from this author so I was pretty positive I'd enjoy this new one. I really liked the meeting of Ric and Meagan. From the moment they cross paths they are attracted to each other. Their attraction is fierce and electric. The story is set in Detroit, which I liked. It was a nice change. I haven't read any stories set there, at least none that I recall. Motor City Fae is filled with intense, sensual scenes. Spencer Pape has created an interesting world that is inhabited by not just fae - but also healers, magic users and shifters. I look forward to reading more about these characters. Wonderfully paced. A captivating read, that keeps you wanting more.
October 6, 2011
Good read with a nice balance between action and relationship. This is the book that put Cindy Spencer Pape on my must have list.
I picked this up originally because of the title - I mean the Fae [who one always imagine in green leafy glades or dancing under the moon] and Detroit which is perceived as the capital of the rustbelt and poster child for urban blight? Really???
Yeah, really. The author made it work and work well. I loved the hero [who doesn't love a Fae bard with cool friends?] and the heroine is a painter who paints things she sees only in her dreams... Of course those places are real, places of magic, places in both the human realm and that of the Fae. She is half-Fae, and the missing heiress to wealth, land, and power in the Fae world.
It's every adopted kid's dream come true. Of course the dream doesn't include the people trying to kill her so they become the heirs, or the Fae Queen and her Court who look down their noses at her, or the fact that the Queen has been using our hero as her personal boy toy for the last 600 years.
Order is very important in this series! Just get them all - because you'll want to read them all anyway!
Urban Arcana
Motor City Fae
Motor City Witch
Motor City Wolf
I picked this up originally because of the title - I mean the Fae [who one always imagine in green leafy glades or dancing under the moon] and Detroit which is perceived as the capital of the rustbelt and poster child for urban blight? Really???
Yeah, really. The author made it work and work well. I loved the hero [who doesn't love a Fae bard with cool friends?] and the heroine is a painter who paints things she sees only in her dreams... Of course those places are real, places of magic, places in both the human realm and that of the Fae. She is half-Fae, and the missing heiress to wealth, land, and power in the Fae world.
It's every adopted kid's dream come true. Of course the dream doesn't include the people trying to kill her so they become the heirs, or the Fae Queen and her Court who look down their noses at her, or the fact that the Queen has been using our hero as her personal boy toy for the last 600 years.
Order is very important in this series! Just get them all - because you'll want to read them all anyway!
Urban Arcana
Motor City Fae
Motor City Witch
Motor City Wolf
August 19, 2011
Why did it take me so long to pick up this series? It's fun! It's sexy! It has fae who are a little edgy! And some of them are bad! And some of them are wicked! And some of them I want to read moooooorrrrrre about.
Ric has a certain sexy something that worked for me. He's been given a tough task by the Queen and it's made even tougher when he falls for Meagan. I liked the guy. He's blindsided by his attraction to her and he's unable to keep away. Meagan has a lot to deal with once she learns who she is. She goes from being a normal human artist to a noble in the Queen's court. All in the space of a day. She handles it well, all things considered. I'm fairly certain I would have been whimpering in the corner if I had to deal with everything she had to deal with. Which is, you know, why I read books. So that I can see how the other people would react. Right? Right.
I loved the world, I thought the characters were fabulous and I liked that there could be so many different stories told here. Bring it, Cindy Spencer Pape, I'm ready!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Ric has a certain sexy something that worked for me. He's been given a tough task by the Queen and it's made even tougher when he falls for Meagan. I liked the guy. He's blindsided by his attraction to her and he's unable to keep away. Meagan has a lot to deal with once she learns who she is. She goes from being a normal human artist to a noble in the Queen's court. All in the space of a day. She handles it well, all things considered. I'm fairly certain I would have been whimpering in the corner if I had to deal with everything she had to deal with. Which is, you know, why I read books. So that I can see how the other people would react. Right? Right.
I loved the world, I thought the characters were fabulous and I liked that there could be so many different stories told here. Bring it, Cindy Spencer Pape, I'm ready!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 30, 2010
This book was pretty silly. I don't usually go for romance novels and probably should have selected something else when I realized this book was put out by Harlequin. I would have given it 2 stars, but for the romance genre it actually wasn't bad (granted I have pretty low expectations of the genre). It was fairly entertaining and avoided many of the plot devices that are so often overused in these books.
That said, the sex scenes made me laugh out loud (at them, not along with them). Also, the audiobook narrator is good at reading aloud, but was a horrible choice for this novel. A book titled "MOTOR CITY Fae" needs to have a reader who can do a believable American accent, and this one really couldn't.
That said, the sex scenes made me laugh out loud (at them, not along with them). Also, the audiobook narrator is good at reading aloud, but was a horrible choice for this novel. A book titled "MOTOR CITY Fae" needs to have a reader who can do a believable American accent, and this one really couldn't.
June 19, 2011
Hmm, this book didn't have enough pages for character development and the sex started way to early between the actually quite nice and likeable main characters.
If we could have gotten more pages to expand on the friends & family relationships between Meagan, Alaraic, Aidan, her best friend Jace (?) and his potential love interest who is both werewolf and seems born into a crime family, etc., etc. it would have really made this book. The plot as such was pretty pedestrian for my personal taste, but the characters and relationships were good, just not developed enough.
This way I'm not invested enough to seek out the second Urban Arcana, especially since the focus shifts from Maegan to her father's cousin, Aidan.
But it is a nice paranormal romance for all that.
If we could have gotten more pages to expand on the friends & family relationships between Meagan, Alaraic, Aidan, her best friend Jace (?) and his potential love interest who is both werewolf and seems born into a crime family, etc., etc. it would have really made this book. The plot as such was pretty pedestrian for my personal taste, but the characters and relationships were good, just not developed enough.
This way I'm not invested enough to seek out the second Urban Arcana, especially since the focus shifts from Maegan to her father's cousin, Aidan.
But it is a nice paranormal romance for all that.
July 27, 2012
Here we have another story where the hero and heroine are inexplicably drawn to each other through some sort of magical connection that sparks instant lust and leads miraculously to the joining of souls. While I've seen this scenario work in some instances, for the most part, and in this particular instance, it feels like a cop-out. Why bother developing a realistic relationship for the circumstances? It's much easier to add a supernatural element (fae magic, imprinting, etc) that supercedes the laws of human nature and/or common sense.
Which isn't to say that Motor City Fae is without merit. I enjoyed the trip into Meagan's world, and the plot was certainly fast enough to keep the pages turning.
Which isn't to say that Motor City Fae is without merit. I enjoyed the trip into Meagan's world, and the plot was certainly fast enough to keep the pages turning.
January 24, 2013
I like the world building but wish it were more fleshed out. The characters are ok, but again I wish this book allowed for more growth and personality development. Maybe I'm just used to 5-book series, but I felt this book was rushed.
It read like a first draft of a great idea for a book by a writer just starting out, even though it wasn't.
Romance was rushed. Very 'love at first sight' for no reason. Not a fan of those types of books. I'm ok with lust at first sight, but love at first sight without growth and deeper caring as time goes by just leaves me in disbelief and I can't get around to caring whether they stay together.
I look forward to the other books since I do like the world (any fae world is very welcome since Moning's Fever series ended).
It read like a first draft of a great idea for a book by a writer just starting out, even though it wasn't.
Romance was rushed. Very 'love at first sight' for no reason. Not a fan of those types of books. I'm ok with lust at first sight, but love at first sight without growth and deeper caring as time goes by just leaves me in disbelief and I can't get around to caring whether they stay together.
I look forward to the other books since I do like the world (any fae world is very welcome since Moning's Fever series ended).
December 9, 2010
Meagan is a Detroit artist, finally breaking through and making money on her paintings. Then one day she stumbles into Ric Thornhill, and boy does he have a story for her, one that she finds hard to believe. Meagan is not just your ordinary person. In fact, she's a half-elf/half-human, and to top it all off she's an heiress that has an assassin out to get her.
Ric and Meagan must fight not only for their lives, but for the fae city and society. The imagery of the fae world is fantastic. A pleasant mix of several cultures myths. This and the political intrigue were my favorite parts.
A good, quick read. Too bad the characters seemed to be very stagnant and stereotypical.
3/5
Ric and Meagan must fight not only for their lives, but for the fae city and society. The imagery of the fae world is fantastic. A pleasant mix of several cultures myths. This and the political intrigue were my favorite parts.
A good, quick read. Too bad the characters seemed to be very stagnant and stereotypical.
3/5
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