Strange Magic - Part One

"it reminds me of Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark Hunter series" - Star Angels' Reviews

"all I have to say is get ready to buy this one. I LOVED it. I am convinced that Michelle Mankin can write in any genre she wants to and be golden. I am sucked in and can't wait for Part 2! Ahh how I LOVE a good paranormal read - Brandee's Book Endings

"Let me start by saying that I do. not. read. paranormal. period. But....then one of my favorite authors writes a PRN that kind of goes along with her previous series' and well, what's a girl to do? Push my reservations aside and read it, of course! I can now say that I'm glad I took the chance!
Strange Magic (part 1) completely enthralled me, confused me and totally took me out of my "normal" romance comfort zone. I'm still thinking about it days later. Even though, in my mind, I can't let myself believe that some of the characters in the book could actually exist in real life, I did however, let myself get immersed in the story and actually wonder "what if?". That right there, proves what a talented author Michelle Mankin is! She rocks!
The writing in the book was top notch, as I've come to look forward to with Author Michelle Mankin. She is exceedingly ingenious in her field! Her characters are always so well developed, as they are in this book as well.
Seriously people, even if you aren't a regular PNR fan, give Strange Magic a try. Even if it's not "your thing", you won't walk away unimpressed. I can't wait for Part 2 and I've never said anything like that about a PRN read before! - Sammy's Book Obsession

"I love this way this starts out with a bang (kinda literally), and the way we encounter burnt-out, beat down bad boy wanna be Bacchus Billy Blade, singing his gritty songs of experience to an audience that is grateful and, apparently only mostly dead. A black stetson isn't your typical shining armor, but Thyme Bellerose (she's the song of innocence part), can't really afford to be picky about it at this point. I love Michelle's poignant and pointed use of poetry to punctuate her perfect prose (girl can wax lyrical, in that violet tinged way we love!), and how the quotes she chooses enhance the vibe, and move the narrative too. The mythopoeic, archetypal fairy tale nature of the story is beautifully reflected in Michelle's style, almost like a lover whispering the words in your ear. Can't wait for part two, really girl, how can you leave us hanging like this! Belle is beyond tied to the damn tracks, the train has done come and rolled over her, backed up and done it again. Gonna need some strange magic, indeed, to resuscitate this broken reed, that hopefully will not break. Great story, great characters, great setting. Michelle has rocked it again, and part two is just around the corner, so read this now to be ready when it comes. - Still Seeking Allies Blogspot