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Familiar Mates #11
The Spy's Familiar
Captured by a witch as a teen and rescued by the Coven, Orion ‘Tooth’ Templeton vowed he’d make the witch pay. As a Coven agent, he works to ensure no other shifter suffers the way he did.
Now he’s been given the most important mission of his life. Not only will he have the chance to bring down the Shadow Board, but he’ll also exact his revenge.
The job is anything but easy, and it’s only complicated further when he’s paired with two other agents—both of whom are witches. How can he work with the man who is supposed to be his fated mate—and who also happens to be straight and doesn’t want him—and a prince who is keeping secrets and tempts Orion in ways he finds impossible to resist?
Mistakes get made.
When the secrets are spilled and the danger increases, Orion will have to choose who he wants to be…and, more importantly, who he wants to be with…
His fated mate, who doesn’t want to let him walk away, or the prince who can only offer him a place in the shadows, not by his side.
Discover the world of the Familiar Mates mm fated mates paranormal romance series. The Spy’s Familiar has a snarly Komodo dragon shifter, a jaded spy who'd give up the job for the right person, and a prince who might one day make a good agent. There is no MMM and no cheating.
Each book in the Familiar Mates series has a new couple and a HEA/HFN.
Now he’s been given the most important mission of his life. Not only will he have the chance to bring down the Shadow Board, but he’ll also exact his revenge.
The job is anything but easy, and it’s only complicated further when he’s paired with two other agents—both of whom are witches. How can he work with the man who is supposed to be his fated mate—and who also happens to be straight and doesn’t want him—and a prince who is keeping secrets and tempts Orion in ways he finds impossible to resist?
Mistakes get made.
When the secrets are spilled and the danger increases, Orion will have to choose who he wants to be…and, more importantly, who he wants to be with…
His fated mate, who doesn’t want to let him walk away, or the prince who can only offer him a place in the shadows, not by his side.
Discover the world of the Familiar Mates mm fated mates paranormal romance series. The Spy’s Familiar has a snarly Komodo dragon shifter, a jaded spy who'd give up the job for the right person, and a prince who might one day make a good agent. There is no MMM and no cheating.
Each book in the Familiar Mates series has a new couple and a HEA/HFN.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2023
67 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Nichols
89 books343 followersTJ Nichols (they/them) is the author of the Studies in Demonology and Familiar Mates series. They write mostly gay fantasy and paranormal romance, but sometimes gay action/horror as Toby J. Nichols.
After traveling all over the world and Australia, TJ now lives in Perth, Western Australia.
Free gay shifter novella when you join TJ's newsletter: http://tjnichols-author.com/lp/
You can find TJ on
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TJNichols
Ream: https://reamstories.com/tjnichols
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TJNichols.au...
follow me on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/tjnichols or Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tj-ni...
After traveling all over the world and Australia, TJ now lives in Perth, Western Australia.
Free gay shifter novella when you join TJ's newsletter: http://tjnichols-author.com/lp/
You can find TJ on
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TJNichols
Ream: https://reamstories.com/tjnichols
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TJNichols.au...
follow me on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/tjnichols or Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tj-ni...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 30, 2023
I've read every book in this series, and was anxiously waiting for this one. I hate having to write a review that isn't glowing, considering how much I've enjoyed the previous books.
The characters in this book annoyed me with their actions and behavior, both MCs, and their little princely sidekick as well. Also, and this is a spoiler so it's hidden behind the tag, Not the kind of thing I want to see in a romance.
So yeah... *shrugs* YMMV.
The characters in this book annoyed me with their actions and behavior, both MCs, and their little princely sidekick as well. Also, and this is a spoiler so it's hidden behind the tag, Not the kind of thing I want to see in a romance.
So yeah... *shrugs* YMMV.
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July 5, 2025
This one is interesting because unlike several of the other books, there seems to be an overarching plot, in relation to the shadow board. We had also met Orion "tooth" and Jacob briefly in the bodyguard's familiar so that is interesting too.
August 14, 2023
Interesting
Each new book in this series has been very interesting. This one is no different. I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
Each new book in this series has been very interesting. This one is no different. I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
July 23, 2024
The Spy’s Familiar
A fast-paced m/m fated mates story with a little bit of angst, a bit of danger, steamy times, and sweet romance.
A fast-paced m/m fated mates story with a little bit of angst, a bit of danger, steamy times, and sweet romance.
July 30, 2023
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
The Spy's Familiar, by T.J. Nichols
Familiar Mates, Book 11
★★★★★
3rd person, dual character POV
Themes: LGBTQIA+, Undercover, Spy, Romance, Royalty, Shifters, Partners-to-Lovers
Triggers: mild violence, danger; kidnap and trafficking of shifters, including juveniles; past trauma; death of a character
Genre: MM, Romance, Shifter, PNR, Crime
~
World-Building: ★★★★★
Heat: ★★★☆☆
Chemistry: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Romance: ★★★★☆
~
The Spy's Familiar is another incredible novel in the Familiar Mates series, and a cross-over that introduces the characters to another spin-off: Brothers of Fire, which launches in August. As an individual novel in the Familiar Mates series, it's 5*, as a continuation of the running plot of Coven vs Shadow Board it's also 5*, and as an intro cross-over for the new series, it's 10* because I CANNOT. WAIT for the new series to kick off.
~
NOTE
The story continues, non-directly, on from Book 10, where Tooth and Jacob were first introduced. I did re-read that book before reading this one, though in hindsight I wouldn't say it was necessary. However, I do recommend that you should probably go back and read or re-read Book 8. Ethan and Axel's story has a direct correlation to the events of this one, and if you don't remember it then you should give yourself that refresh of a re-read. I didn't re-read it, but I did read over my review to remember the details, such as who/what the Shadow Board are and the threat they pose. Without knowing that – and Book 8 explains it best – you'll be lost here.
~
The Spy's Familiar begins with an exciting new case for Tooth/Orion and Jacob. They're partners who have worked for the Coven for years, and they've been tasked with investigating the Shadow Board. With a new agent with connections – Prince to some obscure French island – they're hoping to dig deeper into the Shadow Board and taken them down from the inside, with the help of all the information Ethan (from Book 8) has previously supplied.
As partners, they're dynamic. But Orion is already aware they have a mate bond, and he's been wondering when/if Jacob would sense it. Since it's been months, he's struggling to hold back his emotional and biological need to secure the bond, but he's also keenly aware it is NOT the right time to tell Jacob of the bond, which would compromise their mission.
Now, forewarned – I didn't include in it my triggers list because I don't know what to call it. But, there is an acknowledged mate bond between a pair, and one does have sex with a secondary character. The stick part is this – there is *no* relationship beyond being partners, so it's NOT cheating. However, it can be considered emotionally cheating on the bond, and that's the only reason I'm including a mention of it in my review.
I will also admit that, for a while there, I was really hoping for an MMM, even though that doesn't seem to be how the familiar bond works. This one had such promise for it, and I also understand the WHY of those other sex scenes being included, both for the way it affected the bond and the characters, but also because it left a bit of uncertainty. Would the MC follow the bond, or would he fall back on his new lover if he was rejected? And that, for me, was a great piece of tension and anticipation throughout the story.
While I already knew that I liked Orion and Jacob, from their parts in Book 10, I loved them all the more here.
Jacob is so no-nonsense, married-to-work, serious and in control at all times. He's also a closeted bisexual, who doesn't want to mix work with pleasure, and who doesn't really want to rely on others or let anyone past his walls. He has a history he struggles with, as his father was an alcoholic and his mother never protected them from that.
Conversely, Orion is a f*cked up mess. He's impulsive, rage-beneath-the-surface unpredictable and is more than ready to act first and think later. He has his own dark past, as he was sold by an uncle at the age of 14 into the hands of a witch who forced a bond on him. He knows what it's like to be a puppet, to lose control of his own mind and magic, and he knows what a bond feelings like...or so he thinks.
Together, they're a mess.
Together, they're a perfect match.
I utterly adored how they worked so in sync in work life, but were such clueless messes in their personal lives. I also loved the inclusion of Everest. As a character, he was insanely interesting, considering his background and the role he played in bringing Jacob and Orion together, but I also loved that spark of rebellion and stubbornness that we got to see. He's definitely a Prince, and I can't wait to read more about him in the spin-off series.
I really loved the way that the world-building was intensified and increased, in this book. The Familiar Mates series is already 10 books long, but number 11 just adds to much dimension and depth to what we thought we already knew. I love that every main character or pairing has a different level of access, of contact, and a varying degree of need for the Coven. They all provide different views, some positive, some negative, and some that expose the deeper dealings of the people who work there. The events of this book are no different, and its effects will be felt on future books, I have no doubt.
I don't want to say much about the plot, because there are so many twisty moments that you need to read to enjoy for yourself. But...I nearly cried when Orion found the wolf. My heart nearly stopped when Jacob finally found Orion, and the Epilogue was perfection.
While this is the cross-over for a new spin-off, I'm not sure if that means the Familiar Mates series has ended, to follow a different path, or if there will be more books. Either way, I'm on board. This is one world, series and character-line that I'm following all the way to the end.
~
OVERALL
The Spy's Familiar was another outstanding hit. While bringing something new to the Familiar Mates series, it also leads us in another direction, towards a new spin-off that I'm sure will be as golden as this series has been. And if there's more from the Familiar Mates, keep them coming... I'm in all the way.
~
Favourite Quote
“The witch was a temptation he shouldn't have. That he allowed himself the occasional contact was both too little and too much.”
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
The Spy's Familiar, by T.J. Nichols
Familiar Mates, Book 11
★★★★★
3rd person, dual character POV
Themes: LGBTQIA+, Undercover, Spy, Romance, Royalty, Shifters, Partners-to-Lovers
Triggers: mild violence, danger; kidnap and trafficking of shifters, including juveniles; past trauma; death of a character
Genre: MM, Romance, Shifter, PNR, Crime
~
World-Building: ★★★★★
Heat: ★★★☆☆
Chemistry: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Romance: ★★★★☆
~
The Spy's Familiar is another incredible novel in the Familiar Mates series, and a cross-over that introduces the characters to another spin-off: Brothers of Fire, which launches in August. As an individual novel in the Familiar Mates series, it's 5*, as a continuation of the running plot of Coven vs Shadow Board it's also 5*, and as an intro cross-over for the new series, it's 10* because I CANNOT. WAIT for the new series to kick off.
~
NOTE
The story continues, non-directly, on from Book 10, where Tooth and Jacob were first introduced. I did re-read that book before reading this one, though in hindsight I wouldn't say it was necessary. However, I do recommend that you should probably go back and read or re-read Book 8. Ethan and Axel's story has a direct correlation to the events of this one, and if you don't remember it then you should give yourself that refresh of a re-read. I didn't re-read it, but I did read over my review to remember the details, such as who/what the Shadow Board are and the threat they pose. Without knowing that – and Book 8 explains it best – you'll be lost here.
~
The Spy's Familiar begins with an exciting new case for Tooth/Orion and Jacob. They're partners who have worked for the Coven for years, and they've been tasked with investigating the Shadow Board. With a new agent with connections – Prince to some obscure French island – they're hoping to dig deeper into the Shadow Board and taken them down from the inside, with the help of all the information Ethan (from Book 8) has previously supplied.
As partners, they're dynamic. But Orion is already aware they have a mate bond, and he's been wondering when/if Jacob would sense it. Since it's been months, he's struggling to hold back his emotional and biological need to secure the bond, but he's also keenly aware it is NOT the right time to tell Jacob of the bond, which would compromise their mission.
Now, forewarned – I didn't include in it my triggers list because I don't know what to call it. But, there is an acknowledged mate bond between a pair, and one does have sex with a secondary character. The stick part is this – there is *no* relationship beyond being partners, so it's NOT cheating. However, it can be considered emotionally cheating on the bond, and that's the only reason I'm including a mention of it in my review.
I will also admit that, for a while there, I was really hoping for an MMM, even though that doesn't seem to be how the familiar bond works. This one had such promise for it, and I also understand the WHY of those other sex scenes being included, both for the way it affected the bond and the characters, but also because it left a bit of uncertainty. Would the MC follow the bond, or would he fall back on his new lover if he was rejected? And that, for me, was a great piece of tension and anticipation throughout the story.
While I already knew that I liked Orion and Jacob, from their parts in Book 10, I loved them all the more here.
Jacob is so no-nonsense, married-to-work, serious and in control at all times. He's also a closeted bisexual, who doesn't want to mix work with pleasure, and who doesn't really want to rely on others or let anyone past his walls. He has a history he struggles with, as his father was an alcoholic and his mother never protected them from that.
Conversely, Orion is a f*cked up mess. He's impulsive, rage-beneath-the-surface unpredictable and is more than ready to act first and think later. He has his own dark past, as he was sold by an uncle at the age of 14 into the hands of a witch who forced a bond on him. He knows what it's like to be a puppet, to lose control of his own mind and magic, and he knows what a bond feelings like...or so he thinks.
Together, they're a mess.
Together, they're a perfect match.
I utterly adored how they worked so in sync in work life, but were such clueless messes in their personal lives. I also loved the inclusion of Everest. As a character, he was insanely interesting, considering his background and the role he played in bringing Jacob and Orion together, but I also loved that spark of rebellion and stubbornness that we got to see. He's definitely a Prince, and I can't wait to read more about him in the spin-off series.
I really loved the way that the world-building was intensified and increased, in this book. The Familiar Mates series is already 10 books long, but number 11 just adds to much dimension and depth to what we thought we already knew. I love that every main character or pairing has a different level of access, of contact, and a varying degree of need for the Coven. They all provide different views, some positive, some negative, and some that expose the deeper dealings of the people who work there. The events of this book are no different, and its effects will be felt on future books, I have no doubt.
I don't want to say much about the plot, because there are so many twisty moments that you need to read to enjoy for yourself. But...I nearly cried when Orion found the wolf. My heart nearly stopped when Jacob finally found Orion, and the Epilogue was perfection.
While this is the cross-over for a new spin-off, I'm not sure if that means the Familiar Mates series has ended, to follow a different path, or if there will be more books. Either way, I'm on board. This is one world, series and character-line that I'm following all the way to the end.
~
OVERALL
The Spy's Familiar was another outstanding hit. While bringing something new to the Familiar Mates series, it also leads us in another direction, towards a new spin-off that I'm sure will be as golden as this series has been. And if there's more from the Familiar Mates, keep them coming... I'm in all the way.
~
Favourite Quote
“The witch was a temptation he shouldn't have. That he allowed himself the occasional contact was both too little and too much.”
August 5, 2023
The Spy’s Familiar is the latest in the Familiar / Fated Mates series and continues story lines from ‘The Billionaire’s Familiar’ and ‘The Bodyguard’s Familiar’ in that the main protagonists play a minor part in them and all three are concerned with abuse of shifters by witches.
Jacob is a witch and Orion is a shifter and they work for the Coven. They are currently working on a case which involves the Shadow Board in England, a body that wants to give power to witches or at least chosen / suitable witches. They are required to take on the roles of bodyguards to a prince of some obscure kingdom in Europe, a prince who is also a witch and a new Coven agent. There are a few secrets concerning the three agents that are revealed along the way and they impact on how the case progresses. The main one is the fact that Jacob is Orion’s fated mate should they decide to make the bond. The other secrets are for you to find out by reading the book other than to say past events will have a bearing on how the agents react and that could be a good or a bad thing.
This is a great addition to the series and manages to tie in a number of threads and also open up the possibility of another series concerning some of the secondary characters. The growing relationship between Jacob and Orion is fraught with differences and dangers. Dangers that might mean and that they both may not survive should they take that step to cement their bond. This is a book that can be reread as many times as you like.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jacob is a witch and Orion is a shifter and they work for the Coven. They are currently working on a case which involves the Shadow Board in England, a body that wants to give power to witches or at least chosen / suitable witches. They are required to take on the roles of bodyguards to a prince of some obscure kingdom in Europe, a prince who is also a witch and a new Coven agent. There are a few secrets concerning the three agents that are revealed along the way and they impact on how the case progresses. The main one is the fact that Jacob is Orion’s fated mate should they decide to make the bond. The other secrets are for you to find out by reading the book other than to say past events will have a bearing on how the agents react and that could be a good or a bad thing.
This is a great addition to the series and manages to tie in a number of threads and also open up the possibility of another series concerning some of the secondary characters. The growing relationship between Jacob and Orion is fraught with differences and dangers. Dangers that might mean and that they both may not survive should they take that step to cement their bond. This is a book that can be reread as many times as you like.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 14, 2023
This book is part of a series, and readers of some of the previous books (The Billionaire’s Familiar, The Bodyguard’s Familiar) will find some familiar faces and plot threads here. Each book also provides more insight into the complex, fraught world the characters inhabit, with shifters and magic and corrupt people (and institutions) and shady bureaucracies and people who are trying, against the odds, to make things better. It’s all pretty riveting. This book focuses on Orion (Tooth), a shifter, and Jacob, a witch, who are both interesting characters with lots of nuance and plenty of baggage. They’re work partners, and work is perilous. There’s a mate bond, but…it’s complicated. They are each, in their own ways, struggling for balance and the legacies of past experiences. They embody, to a certain extent, different extremes: Jacob is dedicated to being in control and focused on work, Orion is impulsive, emotional, and more inclined to sort out the aftermath than plan anything out beforehand. I won’t spoil any of the details of the plot, which is engrossing, or the twists and turns of the relationship development, the role of other characters in it etc– again, these things are worth experiencing on their own terms. I will say that I love the contrasts these characters embody: in personality, in competence (at work, they’re aces, in everything else, a hot mess), etc. Tl;dr: well worth a read. 4.5 stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 12, 2023
4 stars. First book i've read in the series and after a bit of adjustment, got into the context for the book.
Proper involved adventure with some curve balls with fated mates, of whom Jacob doesn't realise until Orion has to tell him. Coven Agents battling against the Shadow Board and an old enemy of Orion's, and with allies with powers that aren't all that they seem at the surface. It's a more complicated plot than some and I like the consistency on how the plot develops with retrospect to the events, i.e. Jacob realising his restlessness was likely due to the fact he'd unknowingly been around his fated mate for the last few months. At times it felt like Jacob and Orion weren't going to succeed, so (no surprise here) as it is a HEA, the way it is achieved made this a rapid read for me!
Only comment really I have about this is when they do choose to be mates, there isn't a big fanfare, it starts with a kiss, but it is explained how it works as it goes on.
Really enjoyable book, and read quickly because of that.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Proper involved adventure with some curve balls with fated mates, of whom Jacob doesn't realise until Orion has to tell him. Coven Agents battling against the Shadow Board and an old enemy of Orion's, and with allies with powers that aren't all that they seem at the surface. It's a more complicated plot than some and I like the consistency on how the plot develops with retrospect to the events, i.e. Jacob realising his restlessness was likely due to the fact he'd unknowingly been around his fated mate for the last few months. At times it felt like Jacob and Orion weren't going to succeed, so (no surprise here) as it is a HEA, the way it is achieved made this a rapid read for me!
Only comment really I have about this is when they do choose to be mates, there isn't a big fanfare, it starts with a kiss, but it is explained how it works as it goes on.
Really enjoyable book, and read quickly because of that.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
August 18, 2023
Exciting story, great series! Orion, was dragging some heavy baggage based on what he experienced as a youth. He was captured by a witch, Hastings, tortured and almost lost his soul. He was rescued by the Coven and felt grateful, but seethed with revenge. On his latest mission, he was teamed with an experienced witch, Jacob who also happens to be his fated mate and Everest, a Prince who wants to be an Agent, but is basically a Baby Agent. Ev is keeping secrets and Jacob and Orion, can't identify his fire. Jacob, is team lead. Orion presumes his mate is straight and the Prince/Baby Agent throws out bait all over the place. Hastings is at their first undercover mission and adds a complication Orion must explain. Nothing is as it seems, our guys step into a maze of adventure that sometimes seems like they will never safely get out of. Can our guys complete their mission and take down the Shadow Board? Does Orion get his chance with Hastings? Will they meet the Coven expectations? Will Orion engage his mate? Will Ev reveal his secret? Great story, well staged, excellent mystery. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2023
I love this series, and world, and had been intrigued by Orion and Jacob after meeting them in a previous book. The story kept me on the edge of my reading seat with its tense action plot and the bad guy being a formidable opponent.
I liked that Orion is fighting the familiar mate bond while Jacob is oblivious to it. The snark is wonderful, and these two are well suited. I love them together. Jacob’s power is an interesting one, and not without its drawbacks which I liked. I enjoyed seeing them as Coven operatives in the field.
I loved the introduction of Everest and his family and am looking forward to reading their series! I guessed what he was early on in the story, but that just made the story more interesting and upped the ante with the bad guy whose power has the potential to be very dangerous. The Shadow Board are a nasty lot, and I love how their story has been building throughout the series.
The final showdown with the bad guy was nicely done with everyone working together. I loved the danger in this one, with their HEA being seriously in doubt as their mission goes south. I’m hoping to see more of Orion and Jacob in the new series too.
I liked that Orion is fighting the familiar mate bond while Jacob is oblivious to it. The snark is wonderful, and these two are well suited. I love them together. Jacob’s power is an interesting one, and not without its drawbacks which I liked. I enjoyed seeing them as Coven operatives in the field.
I loved the introduction of Everest and his family and am looking forward to reading their series! I guessed what he was early on in the story, but that just made the story more interesting and upped the ante with the bad guy whose power has the potential to be very dangerous. The Shadow Board are a nasty lot, and I love how their story has been building throughout the series.
The final showdown with the bad guy was nicely done with everyone working together. I loved the danger in this one, with their HEA being seriously in doubt as their mission goes south. I’m hoping to see more of Orion and Jacob in the new series too.
August 18, 2023
The Spy’s Familiar is the 11th book in the Familiar Mates series by author TJ Nichols. I have not read all the books in order. I am not lost at all in this story. I will say this story is a happy ending for the main characters but the overall world it is a happy for now. So romance is great for me but the world itself I need to know more. Good way to get me to get more books that is for sure 😊
This story is Tooth and Jacob’s love story.
Orin/Tooth was captured by a witch when he was a teen. He has no love loss for witches now. He is driven by revenge. He never wants another shifter to suffer the way that he did.
He is protective, loyal, and very driven.
Jacob is a witch. Turns out he is Tooth’s mate. He is protective, loyal, and determined to keep Tooth for his own.
I loved this story. Makes me want more, that is always a good thing. Plus, TJ Nichols is one of my favorite authors. I never get put down their books and want more this book is no exception. If you like a powerful love story with magical twists and turns this is the story for you
This story is Tooth and Jacob’s love story.
Orin/Tooth was captured by a witch when he was a teen. He has no love loss for witches now. He is driven by revenge. He never wants another shifter to suffer the way that he did.
He is protective, loyal, and very driven.
Jacob is a witch. Turns out he is Tooth’s mate. He is protective, loyal, and determined to keep Tooth for his own.
I loved this story. Makes me want more, that is always a good thing. Plus, TJ Nichols is one of my favorite authors. I never get put down their books and want more this book is no exception. If you like a powerful love story with magical twists and turns this is the story for you
September 19, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
The Spy’s Familiar is the latest installment in T.J. Nichols Familiar Mates series. The series focuses on the witch/shifter bond, as witches can bond with familiars who help bolster their magic. In the best circumstances, the witch and familiar are fated mates, allowing their magic to connect and them to form an intense bond. When it goes wrong, however, shifters can be forcibly bound to witches who use and drain their magic. As a series, many of these books stand alone, but this story does tie more directly to The Billionaire’s Familiar, where we are introduced to the Shadow Board, and The Bodyguard’s Familiar, where we meet Orion and learn more about the kidnapping/trafficking of shifters. So having read those stories will give you some background that is helpful here, though the basics are explained in this book.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
The Spy’s Familiar is the latest installment in T.J. Nichols Familiar Mates series. The series focuses on the witch/shifter bond, as witches can bond with familiars who help bolster their magic. In the best circumstances, the witch and familiar are fated mates, allowing their magic to connect and them to form an intense bond. When it goes wrong, however, shifters can be forcibly bound to witches who use and drain their magic. As a series, many of these books stand alone, but this story does tie more directly to The Billionaire’s Familiar, where we are introduced to the Shadow Board, and The Bodyguard’s Familiar, where we meet Orion and learn more about the kidnapping/trafficking of shifters. So having read those stories will give you some background that is helpful here, though the basics are explained in this book.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
July 26, 2023
Book 11 in the Familiar Mates series is just as addictive as the previous 10. The author produces strong characters who fight against the bond that tells each of them they are mates. This time we have a Komodo dragon shifter and a witch. Working together is hard enough when you are fighting not only keeping your powers and existence secret from humans, but also fighting the strong desire to bond with the only person Fate has chosen for you. There's a fine line to be trodden and at some stage that fine line is going to be crossed. Will everything they are working toward and working on be compromised? Will lives be in danger? The bond can be triggered by a simple kiss and once that bond is activated, and something happens to one of them - the other will not only feel it but could also die if their bonded mate dies or is killed.
T J Nichols knows how to tell a story that you don't want to interrupt - for anything. Compelling reading. All books in this series can be read as stand alones.
T J Nichols knows how to tell a story that you don't want to interrupt - for anything. Compelling reading. All books in this series can be read as stand alones.
August 8, 2023
I’ve enjoyed all of TJ Nichols’ familiar books and The Spy’s Familiar is no exception.There is no doubt the author has ended this series with a very big bang. The story follows three protagonists: Jacob, the witch/spy, Orion, dragon shifter, and Everest, royalty and fire witch. I loved the interactions among the three of them. It was fun to watch Jacob and Orion move toward a mating bond, despite all the roadblocks in both their pasts. There were so many twists in this story that it was hard to see how the good guys were going to come out on top. And the villains were all truly evil with no redeeming qualities, so the reader is rooting for their demise. I was astonished at how inventive this last book was, since the author has explored the idea of shifter/witch matings in all the other books. It was reassuring to know the author is moving on to a new series as a spin-off of this one. I can’t wait! I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2023
As a young teen Orion Templeton was sold by his uncle to a witch. Rescued by the Coven, he joined them hoping to find that witch one day while making sure no other shifters suffer as he did. His latest assignment finally brings him into contact with that witch as well as providing an opportunity to bring down the Shadow Board, but nothing is going as he thought. He is partnered with two agents, both witches. One turns out to be his straight fated mate while the other has lots of secrets but does provide an outlet for his frustration. Mistakes happen and danger increases.
The Spy’s Familiar was incredibly tense with so much happening. Twists and turns, betrayals and treachery become common. It begins to look as if they may lose when more than one surprise comes to their rescue. Do they get their happy ending? You will have to read this fantastic story to find out.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion.
The Spy’s Familiar was incredibly tense with so much happening. Twists and turns, betrayals and treachery become common. It begins to look as if they may lose when more than one surprise comes to their rescue. Do they get their happy ending? You will have to read this fantastic story to find out.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion.
August 16, 2023
Jacob (witch-spy) and Orion (Komodo dragon) have been partners for over one year working for The Council to stop the Shadow Board and have turned a blind eye to their mutual attraction. Each has very personal reasons for their reluctant lure, and each has a duty to get rid of the Shadow Board, Orion more so than ever. Orion's history with American witch Hank Hastings is bitter and brutal. Orion wants Hastings' life extinguished, but Hastings is driven by ambition to get Orion back under his deadly control. The third character in this dual relationship is Fire Witch Everest. A novice agent who is a prince, acts like a privileged prince, but Jacob's not impressed with Everest's linage. Everest's true nature is not revealed for some time but when it is his true "fire" is uncovered. This last book of the Familiar Mates series is a great read and ends with hints of a new series coming soon. This is my voluntary review for the ARC I got.
August 17, 2023
In reading this it was kind of comforting to realize that in love and relationships mistakes get made even if you know who you are supposed to be with, especially if they are not indicating to you that they will do something about the mutual attraction you share. I thought the push and pull between Orion and Jacob was well written and their somewhat bumpy road to getting together made sense. Here are fated mates who are not only dealing with the baddies but their own issues and mistakes are made. That didn't make the story any less compelling or this last story in the series any less exciting. I found Everest an interesting character and was not sure what to make of him throughout a lot of the story and then bang! Thanks for a solid ending and I look forward to more from this author.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2023
Alright, so first thing's first: I'm a huge fan of this series. Throughout, the background plot has sort of shifted and been lost and refound, so it was a treat to have the Shadow Board be the focus of this one. I will confess that I wasn't sure I'd like the main characters. Fated mates sort of rejecting each other (temporarily) is my kryptonite, but menage and love triangles aren't. Thankfully, that's not really what happened here. I very much enjoyed watching Jacob realize his feelings, mostly in hindsight and the tension was perfect. As always, Nichols has written a compelling book with characters that feel very real and I didn't want to put it down until I ran out of pages. Can't wait to see what's next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2023
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review.
This had taken a year of planning, Jacob and Orion wasn't about to let a young green agent/ royalty crash land at secrecy shadow group heck bend on destroying everything hard won by the the coven. Orion has one little thing nagging him, his mate..who just so happens to be straight and objectively blind to what is getting under the Komodo dragons skin. That is until Everest temptation works to well. Aww, someone is totally jealouse the attention the prince is giving out. Only Orion doesn't want to tie his self just for bonding, not after the suffering he was luckily spared from in his youth. When the evil of Orion youth reappears can the bond help or be taken away before they even have a chance to begin
This had taken a year of planning, Jacob and Orion wasn't about to let a young green agent/ royalty crash land at secrecy shadow group heck bend on destroying everything hard won by the the coven. Orion has one little thing nagging him, his mate..who just so happens to be straight and objectively blind to what is getting under the Komodo dragons skin. That is until Everest temptation works to well. Aww, someone is totally jealouse the attention the prince is giving out. Only Orion doesn't want to tie his self just for bonding, not after the suffering he was luckily spared from in his youth. When the evil of Orion youth reappears can the bond help or be taken away before they even have a chance to begin
July 30, 2023
Assigned to protect and work with the Prince Ethan of Lac d’Aigle and new Coven agent, Orion and Jacob are searching out the Shadow Board members when an evil witch from Orion’s past makes an appearance. This starts an intriguing story of fated mates, Komodo Dragon shifters, a Phoenix shifter, and a mission that they need to complete. I was quickly drawn in and it was hard not reading through the night to finish the book in one sitting. I have read other books in this series, and they have all rocked! I can’t wait until the next one comes out…please! I highly recommend this book and entire series if you want to dive into another world of magic, shifters, and fated mates.
August 1, 2023
Sometimes you lose track of series because the new "shiny" comes out. And I'm sorry to say that that's what happened with this series. Reading this made me remember how enjoyable the first three books in the series were (yes, I'm that far behind).
World Building. Excellent. Characters. Engaging. This is a fun, fast read. It's a fated mates, but the only angst you get is that neither character thinks they want a fated mate. Until they do.
Nichols writes with a light touch that pulls you into the story.
Now I've got to go read books 4-10. Nichols also set the stage for the next series they have for us.
World Building. Excellent. Characters. Engaging. This is a fun, fast read. It's a fated mates, but the only angst you get is that neither character thinks they want a fated mate. Until they do.
Nichols writes with a light touch that pulls you into the story.
Now I've got to go read books 4-10. Nichols also set the stage for the next series they have for us.
August 11, 2023
Okay, so let me start out by saying I hate cheating in all forms. But it was okay as our MC's are not in a relationship, though the bond has started. Jacob is a witch & Orion is a shifter and they both work for the coven. The bad guy was a really bad guy, and I would have liked a slower death, but that was okay as long as he died, I was happy. I love Everest & can't see more of him in the spin-off series. Even though this is part of a series & we do see these two in a prior book, I think you can read it as a standalone.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
August 1, 2023
WOW!!! This was the most informative of them all. I love how the world created gets more complex with each book. And this one blew me away. The fated mates bond in this series is much more realistic than in other fated mates books I have read. The emotions more true to life. Yes the danger, magic, and shifting isn’t our norm but the thought processes and emotional responses are. And by the end a deeper more complex world is opening up to you. I can’t wait to learn more. Thank you GRR for offering this and a big thank you to TJ Nichols for sharing your brilliant world building skills.
August 16, 2023
Engaging read with compelling and complex characters, plenty of twists and turns, and relationship drama. This book is part of a series, so although it can be read as a standalone, there are some characters and plot themes that relate to the other books. There is moderate angst, complicated relationships, histories and baggage that complicate things, and an exciting and ongoing struggle against some really villainous villains. Great book, great series, and I look forward to whatever T.J. brings us next.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
August 19, 2023
Good but not my favorite
So I was excited to read Orion and Jacobs story. It was a little confusing or just uncomfortable that Orion was paying attention to someone else instead of Jacob. I understand why.... as if you can't be with the one you want, be with whoever you can? Yeah I don't know it just seems that Orion is totally resigned that Jacob doesn't want him , but he never tried.
Thus, later when it becomes knowledge they are mates, it is better to the story and to my mind. The action is good. I love the over reaching arc of the series. So I will keep reading on!
So I was excited to read Orion and Jacobs story. It was a little confusing or just uncomfortable that Orion was paying attention to someone else instead of Jacob. I understand why.... as if you can't be with the one you want, be with whoever you can? Yeah I don't know it just seems that Orion is totally resigned that Jacob doesn't want him , but he never tried.
Thus, later when it becomes knowledge they are mates, it is better to the story and to my mind. The action is good. I love the over reaching arc of the series. So I will keep reading on!
November 15, 2024
Paranormal 007.
This was like reading a paranormal gay version of James Bond only better. That may be because the storyline was also like an Olympic sled race. It sped along the twist and turns and had the reader hanging so as not to be thrown out. All that excitement and a bond and love that even death couldn’t completely break. Oh both main characters were still alive at the end of the book. So was the tertiary character. Yes I know it worded like a tease. The story read like a tease too. So if you want to know how that all fits together- read the book.
This was like reading a paranormal gay version of James Bond only better. That may be because the storyline was also like an Olympic sled race. It sped along the twist and turns and had the reader hanging so as not to be thrown out. All that excitement and a bond and love that even death couldn’t completely break. Oh both main characters were still alive at the end of the book. So was the tertiary character. Yes I know it worded like a tease. The story read like a tease too. So if you want to know how that all fits together- read the book.
July 28, 2023
Orion and Everest story was a twisted one with heartache and difficult decisions that needed to be made in the spur of the moment.
Their way to happiness is a difficult and thorny one, as their principles seems to collide and their mission keeps interfering with their feelings as well as the danger their are living.
I liked reading about a komodo dragon and finding how he is perceived as well as his abilities, and I liked that he was paired with an electro mage.
Their way to happiness is a difficult and thorny one, as their principles seems to collide and their mission keeps interfering with their feelings as well as the danger their are living.
I liked reading about a komodo dragon and finding how he is perceived as well as his abilities, and I liked that he was paired with an electro mage.
August 14, 2023
Orion and Jacob have worked cases together in the Coven without any issues until now. Or so Jacob thought, but Orion has been keeping a big secret. Trying to stop the Shadow Board and the witch who bound Orion years ago, they work with a new agent, a royal prince. Between trying to figure out the new agent's secret, finding the witch, and dealing with new mating bond, this book has more twists and turns than a rollercoaster and is just as thrilling.
August 16, 2023
These two are friends/colleagues and even though Orion knew Jacob was his mate but his past kept him from saying anything plus he thought Jacob was straight. Jacob feels something for Orion but he’s not quite sure what it is until he find out they are mates and that’s when everything changes. Their ending had my heart in my throat until the very last chapter. I love fated mate stories and I love TJs work. I can’t wait to read the spin off series and see what kind of story Everest gets. 😀❤️
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