This was an interesting read. I don't usually read fantasy books but this had my attention from the start. I loved the romance part of the book which was mostly situated in the first half of the book. I loved granny Ellie as a side character. She was a hoot and a half.

The second part of the book covers the fantasy part and although it was good paced and had some hooks, I was more drawn to the beginning of the book.

Overall a nice read for people who love a little fantasy with their romance.

I received an ARC via Netgalley in return of an honest review.

What an intriguing book!

It took me a little while to get into the story. When it starts, we meet Shayla who is visiting her grand-mere Ellie. Shayla irked me initially, particularly the way she inserts her viewpoints into Ellie's life after years of absence. August seemed nice, but the story felt pretty simplistic for the first good part of the novel.

Once the story shifts and the paranormal fantasy aspect is introduced, the story definitely peaked my interest. I think it was an error on my part to read this second book in a series without reading the first. It felt like I was missing a chunk of the fantasy storyline unfortunately.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

This book is nothing like I expected. I loved Jen Lawrence’s debut novel Guardian, and was looking forward to more of that universe, and while I did get it, I also didn’t. Fury is a study in contrasts, an apparently straightforward romance that morphs into fantasy, kinda-enemies-to-lovers/meant to be, a story of grief with deep feelings and irresistible chuckles.
On a backdrop of book pages on a wooden floor, an iPad with the cover of Fury by Jen Lawrence, next to a jar of honey. At the bottom of the image, a strip of torn paper with a quote: "Fury is a study in contrasts." and a url: judeinthestars.com

Shay visits her grandmother after a few years of staying away. Living with Mama Ellie is August, not an old man as Shay expected but a very hot woman her own age. Shay’s suspicions that August is taking advantage of Ellie don’t seem to affect how attractive she finds her, however.

The banter between Shay and August and the chemistry they share are wonderful. Ellie is another engaging character, smart, witty, sassy. While I was looking forward to a fantasy novel, I enjoyed the first part of the story the most, because of the character development. The second part is good too and I like the way the author pushed her characters to evolve and react but I probably would have liked it even more if it had been introduced more progressively. The ending feels slightly abrupt as well, to the point that I almost expected a cliffhanger.

That said, there’s a lot to love in Lawrence’s second novel. As I wrote, it’s set in the same universe as Guardian but reading the first book before this one isn’t necessary. If you do, you’ll recognize one of the characters and will probably understand the shift towards fantasy more easily. If you don’t, you won’t be tempted to compare and try to anticipate the second part, looking for elusive clues. Either way, I recommend reading both books, in whichever order pleases you.

<i>I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.</i>

When I first started reading this book, I thought ‘what a great read’. Then after reading chapter 8 I realized this book was going somewhere I didn’t want to go.
Both main characters are very likable, the supporting cast is somewhat likable but as I reflect back I start to see where something strange is happening. I figured I could tolerate a little fantasy but it turns out I was wrong.
So my advice is this, if you like strange plot twists you will probably enjoy this book. Please check out other reviewers for their input.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella books

Fury is the second novel by Jen Lawrence, and the second story written in the ‘Darke Universe’. The first book, Guardian gives us the narrative of how the world came to be divided into two realms or mirror worlds and how darkness and evil magic entered the world. It also tells the tale of Gia and Luna, and shows us the world of the guardians. Fury tells the love story of Shayla Aja and August Alecto in the “mostly” human world. I loved the first book, and have been looking forward to this one. I’m happy to say I enjoyed this second novel as much as the first.

August and Shay really drew me into the story. They are so obviously destined to be together, that is if the darkness in the world doesn’t manage to separate them. The fantasy and magical elements are woven well into the overall plotline. The setting, a bee farm near the small town of Nyx, is well described and fits right into the narrative. This is a beautiful example of a truly great fantasy story set in a world that otherwise looks very normal to us humans.

Fury is a tale of romance, magic, mystery, danger, darkness, magical creatures, and maybe even a few vampires. What is even more wonderful, I believe this is not the end of the ‘Darke Universe’ novels. At least I hope it isn’t. I will be waiting with my fingers crossed for more books in this universe.

Technically, Fury could be read as a standalone, but I would encourage you to read both novels in order. They both have my highest recommendation.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.

This was shocking in the best ways! I had thought this was 'just' a contemporary romance, with some slight mystical elements - but after the halfway point it went into full blown paranormal fantasy! And I was stunned! But again, in the best ways! I just was not expecting it!

Our two MC's and love interests are Shay and August who are delightful people, along with Shay's Grand-Mere, Ellie. You really feel the heart of all of these wonderful women, and their connection. The banter is amusing and you can't help but root for all of them, as you discover more about each character along with the story, in a wonderfully organic way.

My one "complaint" is just the constant narrative about how HOT August was, her abs, her muscles, her calves etc. She was constantly being ogled and had her hotness pointed out. It just got a bit tedious, because she had SO much more going for her, in that very perfect way. But that is a very minor gripe in a very readable, and enjoyable story, with two lovely MC's.

My only other gripe is that is ends abruptly after a very climatic moment, and I just so pumped, I wanted MORE. Which is absolutely a testament to the writing. I really hope that this story has a sequel, I desperately want to follow up with this couple, and Grand-Mere Ellie. Plus the town and all the magics, supernatural and mystical elements that has been sparked off here.

A truly riveting story.

This was a fantasy fiction. The story started out slow but as it progressed it got quite interesting. I thought the main characters had amazing chemistry. I especially loved the flirty, witty banter between Shayla and August. The secondary characters we also good. Well done, I recommend.

Thank you, Bella Books, and NetGalley for this ARC.

It took me a little while to get into this book. Admittedly I don't usually gravitate to fantasy/science fiction novels, but this one piqued my interest. It took a little while for things to unfold and things definitely got more interesting as the novel progressed. Loved the characters and the flirty/witty banter. I would read this author again.

This review is based on an ARC provided by Netgalley

Fury is a very surprising book to read and a hard book to review. At first glance it's a pretty good lesbian romance. Shay, our main protagonist visits the town of Nyx where her grandmother Ellie lives, where she encounters August, the extremely attractive beekeeper and assistant her grandmother has employed to help run the honey business. Their relationship starts off rocky, but the mutual wariness is garnished with lots of flirting and ill-disguised attraction. Inevitably they start to get closer.


But, this is only half of the book, both in terms of theme and content. Fury is also a fantasy book. This magical element is introduced early, but in a relatively low-key way. The magic in question is puzzling and mysterious, but it felt like it sort of fit within the broader arc of the story being told. Until, about halfway in. That's when the fantastic element makes itself felt and the general plot and pacing of the book comes closer to resembling an urban fantasy novel.


So, given this structure, how does the book read? The romance parts of Fury are beautiful. The flirting, the character chemistry, questions of past trauma and tragedy, hopes of healing all of it is written well and presented well. There was a discussion about keeping old loved ones in your heart while also making room for new ones that really chimed with me. In my opinion the book has all the elements as well as the writing execution to be a top class romance novel.


As for the fantasy part, there's a lot there. A lot of worldbuilding and lore are presented and they are not just there for stage dressing, they also serve as important plot points. A large part of the fantasy elements are directly connected to the romantic relationship and its evolution as well. However, perhaps due to how abruptly it is presented, the fantasy part feels rushed and out of place. From a glance at Goodreads, I am assuming that this book is thematically connected (for the fantasy part) to the author's earlier release - Guardian, so reading that first might have helped, though there was no clear indication that this book was part of a series. Once the fantasy element finds its feet, its well paced, with a pretty taut and action packed conclusion.


So, my take on this book is that the romance part is very well written, and the fantasy part, if it had been given more room to breathe and space to more organically work itself into the story would have been really good as well. Otherwise, the transition is abrupt and a bit disorienting.


I would still recommend this book as I feel the author has a lot to offer. I am rating this 7/10, rounding up to 4 stars out of 5 for Goodreads.

Fury

by Jen Lawrence




I have to say the author’s first book was amazing and this book is no different.



Shayla goes home to see her grandmother after a few years away. She finds August there,  and is taken aback . There is a nice steady pace to the book,  you get to see the characters develop their relationship.  The fantasy part makes the story feel unique. August wanted protect Shayla, no matter what.  



There are definitely elements to the story, I do not want to give away this is a wonderful story. I definitely think everyone should have the opportunity to read it.  And really draw their own conclusions.  I did enjoy the book, it is a wonderful story.  The author does a wonderful job and character development and the fantasy  is like the cherry on top.





I would like to thank Bella Books and NetGalley for the arc! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

it was cute but just felt too much? like there were two separate stories here
would like to read the sequel when it comes out

Halfway through reading this, I stopped and read the blurb because I had no idea where the story was going. There is immediate chemistry, which is done well and funny. The story started off slow but, once the fantasy aspect of the story began it moved quickly. I wonder if there will be any future books in this setting. Overall a fun, fantasy romance. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Alas, how did I find myself in the same situation again? I wanted more after Guardian and now after Fury, the thirst seems to go on. Readers need the next book; after all, there are still plenty of the Darke to defeat, more mystical characters to uncover, worlds to explore and definitely more romance to keep the fantasy going. First it was Luna and Gia, now Shayla and August.

In Fury, Shayla finally returns to her grandmother’s estate 3 years after a life changing event. In the visit, she finds herself not only having to contend with Grandma Ellie, there is also the well liked August, one who is obnoxious yet beautiful.

Jen Lawrence kept the fire slow and steady in the build up of the relationship but midway through the book turned it into an inferno that can only be contained by the pair complementing and working for each other. The transformations of Shayla and August is a treat for fantasy lovers. Who wouldn't want to see characters that they adore not only be able to wield extraordinary powers, fight with a vengeance and see villains struck with fear with an unknown opponent? I’m looking forward to the next instalment to see all the well loved characters and maybe new ones as well.

I just reviewed Fury by Jen Lawrence. Thank you NetGalley and Bella Books for the ARC.

Whoa. This was totally unexpected and a phenomenal read from start to finish. I could not put this book down. The writing is smart with exceptionally witty banter. August, one of the main characters, is adorable, sexy and I think I am a little in love with her. Please don’t tell Shay!

The first half of the novel has Shay visiting her grandmother Ellie. It has been a few years since her last visit and things are definitely different. Ellie now has a live in apiary manager, August, who Shay does not trust. The second half of the story is a ‘hold on tight’ exciting fantasy/paranormal ride with my favourite fantasy mythical creature. I won’t spoil the fun of discovery for you by naming names.

Lawrence has the ability to write moving and emotional scenes which grip your heart. She also has kick ass dialogue chops. The story being a satisfying blend of romance and fantasy will appeal to a range of readers. If you love both of these genres, this book is for you. If you want to expand or dip your toe into fantasy then this book will be a gentle starter for you.

For my enjoyment factor, hilarious banter and blended story, this is a definite 5 out of 5 star novel.

I received a free advance review copy from Bella Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This story begins as a traditional romance in which a woman, Shay, arrives at her grandmother Ellie's house to find that an apparent employee, August, has taken over Ellie's beekeeping business. But this has nothing to do with the further development of the story. Because Shay's initial strange behavior is incomprehensible until we find out the event that she has had to go through. And August is also not the employee who is taking advantage of an old woman to seize her belongings. Even Grandma Ellie hides a few secrets.

I don't want to discover the secrets of any of them, it's worth finding out what these women are going to go through, turning an apparent romance into a fantastic and somewhat surprising adventure story.

I think it will have continuity, because the ending is quite open. This introduction, if it is what it has been, has left some unknowns that I personally would like to decipher in the future.

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀.

This book is set in the same universe as the author's debut, Guardian, a fantasy book about guardians and soulmates that I enjoyed tremendously. For some reason, I didn't connect this book to Guardian immediately, which I should have given how similar their covers look. I also thought this story was dull and I couldn't get into the mood for a while. The story felt a little pedestrian and even the banter between Shay and August felt drawn out.

The turning point for me came when the fantasy elements started to play out and the story became far more exciting and interesting. At the same time, I love that what happens to Shay and August enables them to have a deeper connection with each other, one that is much needed to push their relationship forward, given Shay's history. I thought Shay and August lacked the intensity that the characters in Guardian who shared in their relationship but their chemistry was still pretty good and their bantering grew on me.

This story is pretty good but between this and Guardian, I still prefer Guardian.

Not what expected, which isn’t a bad thing. I did enjoy it, fantasy is not my thing, kind of sends my mind into overdrive… anyway, after reading some other reviews, if I understand correctly, there is another book by Jen Lawrence called Guardian, which is set in the same universe as Fury. I don’t think it’s a must that you read Guardian first, but I would recommend it, I was left a little bit lost.
The characters are strong, undeniably have strong attractions to one another and the storyline is very much different to what I normally read, which is what I’ve been wanting lately.

I’ve given Fury a 4 out of 5.

This book was okay but I didn't love it as much as I wanted to. I felt like it dragged on a bit much. The book wasn't long and it still felt like I was reading for ages. Like I said the story was fine and I liked the characters it was just to slow.

I couldn't read past the first few chapters, the writing was too dense and I was having to reread paragraphs to understand what was going on. Its a pity because I loved the premise and I do like the characters (hence the 3 stars). I won't count it as read because I didn't get far enough into the story.

This is a fantasy story about Shay who comes back to her old home town to visit her grandmother Elle.
Elle has a very profitable bee keeping farm and honey production facility. August is a beautiful mysterious handywoman who Elle has hired to help her run the farm.

Shay distrusts August and thinks she is after Elle’s money. Elle adores August and let’s her run the farm and remodel the old farmhouse. As the story progresses weird paranormal things begin to happen and the book turns into a fantasy story. We get a surprise visit from Luna from the Guardians story.

I found this book immensely entertaining and hard to put down. The first portion of the book is your normal romance with two very well written main characters. Both are charming and fun to be around even though each of them is suffering from a difficult past. There is plenty of back and forth with good witty banter. Eventually they learn to trust each other and give in to their feelings. My only regret is that it ended suddenly and I wanted more.

This book was a joy to read and I look forward to more fantasy from Jen Lawrence’s talented imagination.

Arc received from Bella Books through Net Galley for a voluntary and honest review.