4.04 AVERAGE

adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
Loveable characters: Yes

OK, this one was fun as hell. Don't go in looking for deep character development, but rather the introduction of an entertaining cast and some decent world-building. My favorite character by far was Nico, a man with the personality of a golden retriever puppy. Seeing him, Bel, and Garen come together as a throuple was very sweet. Even though the book is something of a slow burn (with good reason, given Bel's history) the payoff is pretty great. I eagerly look forward to the sequels!

Another enjoyable, cosy, low stakes romance from the ever- reliable AJ Sherwood. :)
funny lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

DNF at 33% because apparently I didn’t read the synopsis first
adventurous emotional funny slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I absolutely bungled my last review by accidentally clicking away. Suffice to say I really love Nico, Bel and Garen. They are so so good and they all have lives, personalities and relationships outside of what we see "on screen." No one in the throuple ends up becoming some strange amalgamate needed to tie it together, they're all very distinct and I love them.

Matt and Victoria were absolutely precious but I have to admit that Wicky and Zia stole the spotlight so thoroughly that I feel a mix of pleased and sad. Because Wicky and Zia. But also Matt and Victoria! I want to see those connections form and interpersonal relationships!

The magic was so succinctly explained but there's also elements of mystery to it because its very malleable. This is a world where fantastical creatures of all kinds exist, a fantasy kitchen sink of sorts, but the world has more or less gone on with a similar feeling history. Aside from MAD because in this house we LOVE!! Magic divisions!!

I cannot recommend this book enough. If you're looking for intense action, this ain't it chief, but if you're looking for a one book slow burn as these three figure things out with a generous helping of magical investigation you've come to the write place! 

Cute aggression

R’iyah mages are a lot of fun, or maybe there’s just something extra about Bel.
“They needed something to hold them together. And Bel knew, in that moment, that he could do it. He could keep them together. He could bridge the gap between them.”


I know for a fact there’s something extra extra about Nico. And I most definitely have a soft spot for Garen. These three make my heart sing and dance with laughter and love. From the waffles, the chaos, the charm, and the people to the connections, the love, the humor and the shenanigans, I thrived on it and want more in my life. More what, exactly? Well, I want it all, including puppies and cupcakes with a sprinkle of mischief.

Bel is a mage with demon heritage so requires a human familiar. Enter Nico, a man that defines high energy and happiness. Then, Garen, steady and protective. As these three work together, more than just a professional relationship starts to develop. There's a few curves and bumps along the way but you will enjoy every one of them.
funny lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Loveable characters: Yes

I really like AJ's books as when I'm in a slump. I love her ultra competent characters, but with that does come some repetition. Bel is very similar to Jon in the Jon's Mysteries case, down to his power being seeing things others can't. So this isn't a groundbreaking book, but it's fluffy and sweet and easy to read.