3.5 stars

This was entertaining and I really liked the world it was set in. I like both of the MC's and am looking forward to the next book in the series.

*ARC provided through Netgalley*

I finally finished this book!!! This was my fifth time trying to read this book? I don’t know why, but I just never quite clicked with this book and after reading the whole thing, maybe I should’ve stayed away. I’m so sorry because I know so many people who love this series but this was not my thing. I think the first half was good and easy to follow along but the second half or so completely lost me.

The author has detailed content notes located on her site here: https://allietherin.com/content-warni...

So, look. Historical romance isn’t usually my thing. They’re always a struggle for me to read for some reason. But magic! Or the promise of magic drew me into the premise. But there’s…not a lot?

Rory Brodigan is able to tell the history of any object he touches and can wind up quite deep into the memory with no clear way to get out. He works at an antiques shop and appraises whether items are authentic or fakes with his gift. He’s 19 and passes as the nephew of the shop’s owner, Mrs. Brodigan.

When Mrs. Brodigan receives a sort of test from a mystery man, Rory winds up spending all night to determine which of the stack of letters is real and which ones are not. Which leads him to the man’s real reason for the test - he’s in search of a psychometric, which would be someone with Rory’s abilities.

The mystery man is Arthur Kenzie. He’s ex-military from the first World War, from a wealthy and influential family, and 26, but more importantly, he uses his wealth and influence to keep dangerous magical objects out of the hands of the wrong people.

Rory and Arthur don’t have a good impression of each other at first (a disaster meet cute, if you will) but that animosity doesn’t last long when they realize they’re attracted to each other.

I think the premise of the story is interesting. But the “magic” piece of this wasn’t quite what I expected? It’s more to do with any number of people who mysteriously have superpowers in 1920s New York City at the height of prohibition. I don’t think we have any real explanation here in this book why people have powers and why others don’t.

I think the setting it fun but, I don’t know, the story just dragged for me and when the plot really ramped up at the end? I was SO LOST.

I don’t really feel attached to either Rory or Arthur either. It’s strange how this book keeps wanting to insist they have a huge age gap between them but it’s not really? Maybe it meant more in the old days? It’s not insignificant now either I guess, but the way they keep talking about, you’d think they have a thirty age gap or something. It just seemed strange in this book. Their biggest gaps are their lived experiences and mostly their class status.

Another thing I found weird was how Arthur insisted on being called “Ace” and that is what people call him. But since this book is written in third-person, it felt super weird the text calls him Arthur at all when it should’ve called him Ace from the start if that’s not even what he goes by. There’s a weird disconnect there.

The book says Arthur is a football player but football wasn’t exactly in vogue yet when he would’ve played? What years and when did he play exactly?

So, there ARE characters who aren’t white in the story. I want to say the characters Arthur works with are pretty much all Chinese? But there’s really no depth to it besides their names and it being stated multiple times that they’re Chinese (that I can recall having listened to the audiobook). The representation felt tepid at best.

I will say one thing I did like is the audiobook narrator, Eriq Bloomquist. The only other time I’ve listened to him before this was with Charlie Adhara’s Big Bad Wolf series but he does a good job here too. I have no complaints.

I’m not entirely sure about continuing on with the series? This book had me LOST and the ending was really ~just vibes~ for me because I had no idea who any of the new people were or why anyone was doing the things they were doing. Maybe it just wasn’t the right time for me to actually finish the book. I was fine with everything that was leading up to the big show down but everything in regards to that show down just left me confused. If the next books are more of that than count me out. I just feel bad because I know so many people who love this book and this series, but it just really didn’t work for me.

I received a copy of this story from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Holy crap, why did I wait so long to read this?!

Though I did get to binge-read all three books, so that's something.

This book is SO GOOD. The characters are all wonderful. Rory and Arthur and Jade and Zhang and Mrs. Brodigan and everyone, they're all so unique. I could really see them. I fell right into the world Allie built and I didn't want to leave. I still want more Rory and Arthur in my life.

The magic is fascinating and, while not wholly original, I haven't read anything like it before. It was introduced in the most perfect way to hook a reader and keep them yearning for more details. I balked at the term "paranormal" because I usually assume that to mean ghosts/spirits (probably why I waited so long to read it) but then I looked up the definition and it made sense.

My major criticism is the historical accuracy of everything. I'm not a history buff and I really don't know the 1920s but there were several moments that rang false to me. It would pull me out for a moment as I wondered whether something was anachronistic or not. It's a shame because I don't think this story would work in modern-day. That said, it wasn't distracting enough to stop me from wanting more!

I absolutely recommend this book to everyone!

I got the arc of this book in… well, 2019. Whoops? I did read it back then but somehow just didn’t post the review, so, here it is, almost 2 years late. Sorry Carina? *blush*

I nearly missed out on this book/series, but luckily several of my reviewer friends were freaking out about how good it was so I went to request it on Netgalley. I was a bit sceptical because paranormal isn’t my usual genre but…

WOW. According to Goodreads, I have read this book four times by now and every time I read it, I find new amazing things and see all the hilarious or brilliant things and there are some scenes that give me all the FEELS even when I’ve read them several times before.

It has the sunshine one – grumpy one trope and I love Rory, the stormcloud/hellcat/hedgehog SO MUCH and I want to wrap him in a warm blanked, and Arthur is such a sunshine-y, caring guy I just want to hug. They are both so amazing…and so are the “side” characters. Jade the bootlegger and telepath, Zhang who can walk the astral plane, Mrs Brodigan in general… all the characters are AMAZING.

I love how the magic is integrated and used, and I adored the part with the auras and Ace being Rory’s anchor. The entire magic thing is just amazing, with magic’s pros and cons, we can see consequences and the relics are both amazing and also really really dangerous.

The development of Rory and Ace’s relationship felt both kind of slow and slightly fast at the same time (and I have no complaints, really). Their banter is entertaining and the entire friendship is just *chef’s kiss*

It is hard to write the review and not a) spoil things or b) gush about how much I loved it. As said, I’ve read it four times so far and I am pretty sure I will read it again. It is one of my favourite books (series) and I just adored all the characters so much (well, the ones we’re supposed to. I have mixed feelings about others, but they are great characters as well). I’ve also had the chance to listen to the audiobook which is just as amazing! If you like audiobooks, you should definitely listen to it! 🙂

I am so excited to read more of Allie Therin’s books in the future!! ❤

I had to reread Spellbound for my review of it – not that rereading it was a hardship.

I would have done so anyway but I managed to lose my review notes so it needed to be done earlier than planned. And guess what happened again? This settles it – I’m back to handwriting my notes into a notebook. No more digital records.

But what I remember – very fondly I might add – is the atmosphere Allie Therin manages to create. A few pages in and I feel like I’m in New York give or take a hundred years in the past.

Her way of inventing and handling magic fits perfectly into that setting and it even isn’t something that has been done many times before. In a way, it feels realistic too and I wouldn’t be that surprised if it actually were true.

But let’s speak about characters. I can’t even name my favourite character because they all are so lovely and interesting and authentic. Arthur and Rory’s romance is so sweet and fiery at the same time but there are two other couples who have a soft spot in my heart as well. I’m hoping we’ll get some tidbits about those in the next book as well.

I can’t wait to read the second book which has been published earlier this year – and I’m sure you’ll be excited as I am about this when you’re reading Spellbound. So in a way I guess it’s a good thing my review is a year late? I’m still so sorry!

Really cute historical urban fantasy set in New York City in 1925. The cast is diverse, and the romance is m/m. There are some individuals with paranormal powers, and they have to work to stop some evil paranormals from destroying the city. Hits the expected plot points for the most part, but an entertaining, adorable read.

A Dip Into Something I Don't Usually Go For

Spellbound is a M/M romance set in the 1920s Manhattan world with elements of history, magic, and mystery.

As a lover of romance, I usually just stick with contemporaries and historical themes, so this one was definitely something new.

I have to admit, though... I enjoyed this debut novel. It was quick to read and the magical aspect is quite intriguing.

The romance was a little weird, where it went from enemies and jumping into love in just a blink. I was looking for that little bit of connection that didn't feel forced. But, the banter was cute and there were some steam here. It was a little lacking though and most of the action happened off page, if that's something you're after.

The redeeming aspect of this book, for me, are the side characters. The friendship dynamic is one I wish I had more of.

Overall, this book is pretty entertaining and if you're looking for some enjoyment, it will be able to deliver. Despite not being perfect, it can still draw you in and bring you to a fun adventure. Looking forward to the next installment of the book.


☁ THE CRITERIA ☁

🌼 Blurb:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Main Character:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Significant Other: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Support Characters:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Writing Style:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Character Development:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Romance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Ending: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Unputdownability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Book Cover:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

☁FINAL VERDICT: 3.63/5 ☁

Arthur Kenzie is the wealthy son of a New York politician. He also works to track supernatural relics that are a danger to the world. When Arthur gets word that an amulet with unknown, but certainly devastating, powers is heading for New York, he seeks out some supernatural help. Arthur is looking for a psychometric, a person who can see into an object’s past, to help him figure out what the relic does and how to keep it from being bound to a dangerous practitioner. He seeks out the woman who owns a local appraisal shop, as she seems to have the abilities he seeks, but little does Arthur know that Leena Brodigan is just a cover for the real supernatural talent who works for her.

Rory may be a psychometric, but his gift is not fully in control. As with many paranormals, his power can get away from him. In Rory’s case, when scrying an object’s history, he can find himself lost in the past, sometimes for day or weeks at a time. Disreputable folks often try to abuse paranormals for their own ends and so Rory keeps a low profile, hiding way in the back of Mrs. Brodigan’s shop and helping to appraise antiques and determine their authenticity, while Leena keeps up appearances up front.

When Arthur approaches Leena Brodigan for help, both she and Rory try to keep him out of Arthur’s sights, but soon it becomes clear to Arthur that Rory is the real one with the paranormal talent. Arthur doesn’t want to do anything to harm Rory and he is very aware that he is asking Rory to do something potentially dangerous, but if the relics fall into the wrong hands, the potential abuse of enormous power could be devastating. Things start off tense between Arthur and Rory, as Rory has a lot of doubts about Arthur and his motives. But soon he begins to realize that Arthur is truly a caring man who just wants to protect the city–and Rory– from harm. But with old enemies resurfacing and dangerous relics in the wrong hands, Arthur and Rory must fight, along with their friends, to save their city and their lives.

Spellbound is the first book in Allie Therin’s Magic in Manhattan series and the author’s debut work. I must say I am incredibly impressed with this story and think Therin does an amazing job combining some really creative world building, fascinating historical detail, and great relationship development.

First off, I am a sucker for creative world building in my paranormals and I am always impressed when I find something unique. Therin really builds a richly developed world here, where regular folks unknowingly mix with people with supernatural abilities. Aside from Rory’s abilities as a psychometic, we also meet Arthur’s best friend, Jade, who is a telekentic; their friend, Zhang, who can move through the astral plane; and a host of others, including fire starters and people who can turn invisible. I thought it was particularly interesting how these abilities are balanced with consequences, namely that they are so hard to control. In addition to Rory risking falling into the past, we learn about dangers other paranormals face from their powers, so it sets up a nice challenge as those fighting for good can’t push too hard or they risk their abilities getting the better of them. Therin does a really nice job of taking this set up and then crafting a wonderfully suspenseful story as the group rushes to discover what the relics can do, who has them, and how to get them to a place of safety. The end of the story gets nicely intense and quite exciting and I loved how it all comes together. This book starts off the series and while things tie up nicely for the first book, there is plenty left open for Arthur and Rory’s continued adventures.

This story takes place in 1925, during Prohibition and not too far after the first world war. Therin really uses the setting and the time period to great affect here. There are lots of details that really bring the historical elements to life, like shared lines for telephones and Rory thrilling to hear that Arthur has a private bath with his own hot water. But at the same time, the story still flows nicely and doesn’t get bogged down in the details. This is also a time where men can not safely be with other men, of course, though we do learn that Arthur could be more open when he was in Europe. So Rory and Arthur have to be very careful as they approach each other, as well as not to let anyone else know about their developing relationship (though Jade knows and heartily approves). I loved getting a glimpse of New York almost a hundred years ago and I found the historical elements really added so much to the story.

I also enjoyed the relationship between Arthur and Rory. Things start out a little adversarial, at least on Rory’s part. He has aways had to hide his abilities and he sees Arthur at first as someone just snooping around and causing trouble for him and Mrs. Brodigan. Arthur is wealthy and powerful and Rory doesn’t trust him. Poor Arthur is trying so hard to prove himself to Rory, but things keep going wrong and he isn’t quite able to show how much he cares about Rory and wants to keep him safe. I had a giggle when Arthur says to Rory, “Do you have a single thought about me that doesn’t assume I’m an asshole?” But once Rory starts to feel safe with Arthur, their relationship begins to move forward and they form such a wonderful bond that really connects them, both emotionally and magically. This story is mostly closed door on the sexual scenes, but there is an intimacy that still comes through so strongly between them.

So I was thrilled with this story and incredibly impressed that it is a debut work. Therin has created some great characters and a really fascinating world here and I can’t wait to follow along with the series. Consider this one highly recommended.

This was absolutely delightful. I loved both the characters so much and their dynamic and I greatly look forward to getting to the second one. Grump and sunshine character dynamics are my favorite

Debut Latinx (Cuban-American) author, Allie Therin’s Spellbound is the first in a projected three book series set in Prohibition era NYC, where smuggled magic-infused objects threaten the lives of all magically-gifted paranormals and non-magical alike. Therin draws on the era’s post- war clandestine counter-culture scene and anti-immigrant to develop a cohesively tense backdrop for her action-adventure, where her wildly diverse characters can find acceptance a community in a black run speakeasy in Harlem, but also fear exposure and persecution elsewhere. Therin also explores class and generational tension throughout the novel, as Arthur, the son of a wealthy political family, exploits his privilege to try to protect the younger and poorer Rory.



While the world-building was engaging, the secondary characters richly developed and the heist plot intriguing, the romantic beats were somewhat repetitive. I loved how soft and smitten Rory and Arthur become with each other but the dual insecurity about the realness of each other’s interest or the depth of feelings became tiresome. However when the romance was clicking it was delightfully sweet. I loved the little details about younger and smaller Rory tucking himself next to the taller and athletically built Arthur and Arthur who is the bossy caretaker of his friend group, soaking up the open-hearted affection.



Tropes:

First Love

Virgin Hero

Opposites Attract

Age Gap



Content Warnings: Homophobia, Torture, War, Past Trauma: Child Abuse, religious shaming,

*~~*ARC kindly provided from the publisher/author to me for an honest review *~~*

Full review to come

5 stars

After reading this book I can honestly say I liked the plot, which was very unique and magic aspects of this book, which made it a great paranormal read. The book itself is not complex, but somehow I wish it was written a bit differently. Besides plot and magical parts I felt like something was missing. So for me 4 stars is an honest review.

4.5 stars

Included in Best of 2019 List: https://twitter.com/Aarya_Marsden/status/1208756659138502661?s=20

On paper, Spellbound isn't a book that ticks my boxes, because it's set in 1920s America which is not a time period I'm interested in. However, something made me pick it up, possibly the rarity of historical M/M books, and I couldn't be more happier than I did. I loved every page of Spellbound: grumpy cinnamon roll Rory stole my heart, and following him to dangerous adventures and meeting the eternal sunshine Arthur was glorious. The characters are fascinating, from the heroes to villains, and the lines between them are blurred at times. Therin has a talent for character writing, fleshing everyone out from main characters to the supporting cast - it is so easy to root for them in their quest to save Manhattan and to protect the world. There's also some nice world-building, it is easy to follow the story even if the reader has less knowledge of the prohibition era New York and of course, all the magical elements that Therin has come up.

In short, Spellbound is addicting and engaging story, which I couldn't get enough. I have read it twice now and could easily read it again and enjoy it as much as the first time. I highly recommend it to everyone who wants something with great, lovable characters, intriguing world, and some nice fast-paced dangerous moments. I hope the sequel will bring more heart-warming moments with some splash of danger and dashing rescues. And naturally, much more Rory's adorable grumpiness and Arthur's gigantic heart.

When this book popped up on NetGalley, my interest was piqued by the cool cover, and then the more I read of the description, the better it sounded! M/m paranormal romance set in 1920s New York? It’s as fun as it looks…

This is a delightful romp of a book with a central romance that I really enjoyed. Paranormal Rory can see the past of items when he touches them, and he’s currently working behind the scenes at an antique shop, verifying the history of the things brought in for analysis. When he scries into the past of an extremely dangerous ring, he’s brought into the world of Arthur, an ex-soldier who is hunting down these highly magical objects to protect the world from their powers, and the two of them must work together to save New York… and maybe work out this attraction to each other.

I really loved Rory and Arthur’s relationship, right from the start when they were bickering, right the way through until the end. The two of them play off each other very entertainingly – Rory’s instinct for distancing himself to protect his secrets vs Arthur’s desire to protect Rory and his secrets is just so much fun to read! Once they work things out, though, they’re clearly an excellent couple, and though the steamier scenes do fade to black, they clearly have great chemistry. The secondary characters were also really good fun – I particularly liked Jade, Arthur’s best friend, who is telekinetic and just incredibly cool, and Mrs Brodigan, Rory’s aunt, who seems like a meek middle-aged woman, but is actually pretty badass.

The plot absolutely races along, dragging you with it through danger, heists and more! This is a very pacey read and would be perfect to read all in one sitting, or as a palate cleanser between longer books. It finishes really satisfyingly, but enough threads are left open that I’m looking forward to the sequel. I think it’ll be a good bet for those who like the hijinks of The Invisible Library, or the wit and adventure of Gail Carriger’s Parasol Protectorate series. Five out of five stars!

This book was incredibly delightful, the historical setting was unusual and one I hadn't read in a while with this kind of paranormal set up. I loved the found family set up and Rory's special powers aspect really gave everything a unique flair. I loved seeing him try to hide it but also try to help Arthur. I can't wait to see how the series develops.

Spellbound by Allie Therin is another read from Netgalley (again, all thoughts are my own). This one would be a perfect read for the month of October as one of the main characters, Rory, is a psychometric – he can read objects. It’s this ability that leads Arthur to him, with a mission to help save New York. One of the things that I loved about this book is that it’s set in 1925, so while Rory and Arthur fall for each other, they can’t be out, and they have to deal with a lot of other issues that wouldn’t have existed if the book was set in today’s time. I gave Spellbound 5 stars – it’s a magical mystery, with a touch of romance, and some fantastic character building. And guess what? There will be a sequel! Add to Goodreads.

Carina Press is one of the best publishers out there for really diverse novels, primarily queer. I was immediately drawn to this particular book because of the paranormal vibes and queer cast of characters, and enjoyed it as much as I thought I would!

I loved the main characters, Arthur and Rory and their relationship. While sometimes their interactions were a bit cringey, they drew me in by the end of the novel.

The world building was great and very engaging. I loved the 1920s, kind of Great Gatsby vibe it had going on! And the writing was just as beautiful too. I really enjoyed my reading experience with this book and if you're looking for a fun, interesting magical book with an urban twist, pick up this book!

Title: Spellbound (Magic in Manhattan Book One)
Publisher: Carina Press
Author: Allie Therin
Pages: 243pp
Price: $4.99
Welcome to Manhattan. It’s 1925, Prohibition is in full swing, speak-easies hide on every corner, and a deadly magical artifact is set to arrive in the city in a matter of days. Only a small group of allies stand between Manhattan and destruction: Arthur Kenzie, a son of privilege who accidentally discovered the reality of magic during the Great War; Jade, an African-American woman gifted with telekinesis who runs an illegal speak-easy; Zhang, an American of Chinese descent who can walk the astral plane; and Rory Brodigan, a powerful psychometric who has the ability to unlock magical artifacts and bind them to those who would use them — for good or ill ….
I came across a copy of Spellbound on netgalley, liked the description, and downloaded it. Unfortunately, it took me a few weeks longer to get to the book than I had intended. I’m sorry for that, because this is a delightful historical/paranormal romance.
In the world of Spellbound, magic is hidden from the majority of the populace. Those who possess abilities — ranging from invisibility to pyrokinesis to precognition — are the distant descendants of the Fae, who long ago left the mortal realm. The Fae took most of the magic with them, leaving behind their much-weaker progeny and a handful of powerful artifacts. And, unfortunately, while most of the world has forgotten the Fae and no longer believes in magic, a few do, and they are actively seeking those artifacts.
That makes Rory quite valuable, indeed.
Probably a good thing that he’s fallen in love with Arthur, then. And never were two such different people so clearly meant to be together. Arthur is book-smart, suave, and elegant. Rory is street-wise, prickly, and living hand-to-mouth. They are both deeply lonely, and find in one another the comfort, acceptance, and completion that they so desperately need.
That is one of the things that I found particularly appealing about Spellbound. Through her characters, Therin calls out the hypocrisy of not only the past, but also the present. Arthur is brave, loyal, and committed to protecting those he loves — but he cannot openly express his love for men without risking his family’s political standing. Rory was the product of an affair between an Italian woman and a Protestant minister; his father refused to marry his mother and, when she died, Rory had no choice but to seek shelter with his father. The upstanding minister never acknowledged his son, and eventually had Rory committed when his psychometric abilities proved to be too much. Jade was a skilled spy and assassin during the Great War, but, as a woman of color, she has virtually no rights in the country she fought to defend; on top of that, she runs a speak-easy; the very people who enjoy her illegal booze and listen to her jazz band are the same people who rail against civil rights and immigration. Zhang can barely leave Chinatown without being accosted.
The magic of Spellbound is unusual. There is no distinction between “magic” and “psychic abilities.” They are one and the same. There is no waving of magic wands or incantations in ancient languages. Instead, there is the individual’s force of will, and blood, and nature. As Jade notes, the phase of the moon can affect one’s abilities, and the artifacts (they soon discover) are similarly influenced by the season, time of day, lunar phase, and even the presence of a particular element (like water).
Spellbound is a terrific addition to the paranormal romance genre. I am looking forward to the next book, and the continuing adventures of Arthur and Rory and their circle of allies. Highly recommended to fans of Astrid Amara, K.J. Charles, Rhys Ford, Jordan L. Hawk, and TJ Klune.

Review: Spellbound by Allie Therin // Or, Never a Better Time to Overprotect Your Paranormal than Now

★★★★,5 | Don’t refuse to help me save Manhattan… You’re so sexy… Aha

“Nonsense is exactly what comes outta my mouth half the time and I don’t need anyone else to hear it”

➽ SUMMARY

🔮 M/M Romance; Gay & Bi MCs
🔮 Side Interracial F/M Romance
🔮 Magic in New York, 1925
🔮 Paranormal Investigation
🔮 A Bunch of Misfits forming a little Paranormal Family
🔮 Lots of Banter & Humour

Arthur Kenzie protects the world from supernatural. But this time he needs help with that. A certain relic will soon arrive in New York and if only certain paranormal pretty please cooperated, it would be much easier to make sure it doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. Rory Brodigan is supernatural and of the opinion that he rather needs the protection from the world. Not that he wouldn’t rush to help the really hot man who crossed his path. He’s just been playing it safe for a while and not without a reason.

Can those two make it work??

➽ WORLDBUILDING

The prohibition era and illegal clubs? The antique shop? Central Park? Yes, Yes, and Yes! And on the top of this, a bunch of psychics with their extraordinary and unique abilities, secret dangerous artefacts and a mystery! That’s my jam!

➽ WRITING STYLE

The writing style had an easy flow and amazing humour that never seemed forced. It’s such an easy read but not trashy or corny or bland. It had some well-loved tropes but without overdoing them or any cringy elements.

I loved the dialogues and internal monologues and situational irony (you know that moment when we get laughs during a sitcom? Every few pages here)

➽ PLOT & PACING

A group of people is brought together to secure a dangerous item. Honestly, a bunch of professional dumbasses, as in they either do everything tip-top or fail at basic shit but that’s how they get you.

There were some good turns of events that were unexpected but made sense in hindsight. And the pacing really made it a page-turner.

So, amidst it all the romance starts blooming…

➽ CHARACTERS

Rory — Rory is so dense when it comes to romance, it’s hilarious. But not to the point of it being dumbed down somehow. He was pretty sheltered because of his magic and some other stuff so it makes sense he’s not that experienced. But he’s a bisexual disaster. Also, he will fight for himself but really just wants a hug.

Arthur — So, he was such a distinguished gay… And then he met Rory. Honestly, there are more contradictions to him. He’s super intelligent but then also can be really dense. A lonely romantic. A paranormal detective without a magic talent… Also, he’s just really worried and wants to protect everyone.

Both of them have a strong woman in their lives without whom they probably wouldn’t survive. Jade is a no BS woman. She runs an illegal club in Harlem. She wears suits. She was a spy. But she’s still gentle at her core and just wants the best for her family and friends. Also, she Lifts (with her mind.) Mrs B. is overlooked by most but that’s her superpower. She will play the cosy aunt and it will save your life before you realise it.

The villains also end up being more complex than you would suspect them at first and you can’t really hate them.

➽ RELATIONSHIPS

So, two dense idiots manage to anger each other and then one plays along with it for longer than necessary and the other thinks that all hope is lost and is really dramatic about it. They both can’t resist each other though. Really, really can’t resist each other. They fell for each other quite fast but it didn’t feel like insta-love. They were lonely and their feelings were heightened by the danger and coming close to death so they just went along with the intense vibe, I guess.

Both of them have their little family of choice and those relationships are not swept aside because of the romance which is something I love to see in fiction.

There’s also a side romance that doesn’t get lots of attention but they were a cute stable couple.

➽ THEMES

Good and evil and the gray areas of being forced by circumstances — Villains are born for many reasons. Sometimes people are just greedy and power-hungry. But sometimes they are pushed to their limits. And sometimes they just lost the fight. There are so many gray areas in our lives and the heros can’t always make the right choices either. In the end, all that matters is that we tried.

Finding love and people who support you — Both of the MCs are lonely in their own ways. They still have people they care about in their lives but… something is missing. Hell, of course, something is missing. You can’t make do with one friend in your life however hard you try — we are social creatures after all. Finding each other not only brings romance into their lives but also opens them up for more people and makes them confront their issues which led to this loneliness in the first place.

Lots of consent and power imbalance talk — Arthur is older and more experienced than Rory. He also has more influence thanks to his rich family and a long relationship with the paranormal world. And he is aware of the power imbalance it creates. He never pushes Rory or assumes more than was plainly stated. Sometimes it causes miscomunication but they got there anyway and I prefer to see someone overpatient than old obsessive and pushy types.

➽ NUANCE & FEELINGS

Well crafted, funny, not much for techincal issues but rather a lighter read. I enjoyed it greatly and had lots of laughs but it did not move me to my core?

“It was terribly romantic, and so naturally he was up here alone”