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The Guild Codex: Spellbound #7
Lost Talismans and a Tequila
You know that squirmy sensation in your gut when you have no idea what you're doing and you're about to screw everything up?
Yeah, that feeling.
I thought I was a good judge of character, but recent events proved me very wrong. Now, in a brilliant demonstration of my newfound caution, I'm putting all my faith in a demon—a demon who's tried to kill me before. The squirmy feeling is making sense, right?
Unfortunately, I don't have any other options. Ezra's time is almost up, which means I need answers and I need them fast. So it's time to toughen up, pack my gear, and find me one of the most illegal, reviled, and scarce mythics out there: a demon-mage summoner.
And all I have to do is follow a demon's instructions on where to look. How could that go wrong?
--
THE GUILD CODEX
Spellbound Series:
Three Mages and a Margarita (#1)
Dark Arts and a Daiquiri (#2)
Two Witches and a Whiskey (#3)
Demon Magic and a Martini (#4)
The Alchemist and an Amaretto (#5)
Druid Vices and a Vodka (#6)
Lost Talismans and a Tequila (#7)
Damned Souls and a Sangria (#8)
Demonized Series:
Taming Demons for Beginners (#1)
Slaying Monsters for the Feeble (#2)
Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped (#3)
Delivering Evil for Experts (#4)
Yeah, that feeling.
I thought I was a good judge of character, but recent events proved me very wrong. Now, in a brilliant demonstration of my newfound caution, I'm putting all my faith in a demon—a demon who's tried to kill me before. The squirmy feeling is making sense, right?
Unfortunately, I don't have any other options. Ezra's time is almost up, which means I need answers and I need them fast. So it's time to toughen up, pack my gear, and find me one of the most illegal, reviled, and scarce mythics out there: a demon-mage summoner.
And all I have to do is follow a demon's instructions on where to look. How could that go wrong?
--
THE GUILD CODEX
Spellbound Series:
Three Mages and a Margarita (#1)
Dark Arts and a Daiquiri (#2)
Two Witches and a Whiskey (#3)
Demon Magic and a Martini (#4)
The Alchemist and an Amaretto (#5)
Druid Vices and a Vodka (#6)
Lost Talismans and a Tequila (#7)
Damned Souls and a Sangria (#8)
Demonized Series:
Taming Demons for Beginners (#1)
Slaying Monsters for the Feeble (#2)
Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped (#3)
Delivering Evil for Experts (#4)
344 pages, Paperback
First published July 10, 2020
1,384 people are currently reading
1,900 people want to read
About the author
Annette Marie
51books7,041followersAnnette Marie is the author of YA urban fantasy series Steel & Stone, its prequel trilogy Spell Weaver, romantic fantasy Red Winter, and sassy UF series The Guild Codex.
Her first love is fantasy, while fast-paced adventures and tantalizing forbidden romances are her guilty pleasures. She proudly admits she has a thing for dragons, and her editor has inquired as to whether she intends to include them in every single book.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad). She shares her life with her husband and their furry minion of darkness—sorry, cat—Caesar. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in one art project or another while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
Find out more about Annette and her books at .
Her first love is fantasy, while fast-paced adventures and tantalizing forbidden romances are her guilty pleasures. She proudly admits she has a thing for dragons, and her editor has inquired as to whether she intends to include them in every single book.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad). She shares her life with her husband and their furry minion of darkness—sorry, cat—Caesar. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in one art project or another while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
Find out more about Annette and her books at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 606 reviews
July 30, 2023
We’ve come to a point where I no longer think it’s possible to read these Guild Codex series as standalones. At least not if you want to understand everything that’s going on. Spellbound 7 and Demonized 3 are closely intertwined in plot. We even get a few Ezra POV chapters in this book, but what he’s up to during this time won’t make a ton of sense unless you’ve read Demonized 3.
I actually warmed up to Tori in this installment. (It shouldn’t have taken seven books to make me like her, but whatever.) We return to the struggles her character went through in the early books, and Tori gets a chance to reflect and prove that she’s no longer the reckless, prideful, disrespectful person she once was. The inclusion of her brother Justin in the plot was a great conduit to demonstrate Tori’s character development.
So at this point, I love Zylas, and now I love Eterran too. Why is it that I seem to like the demon characters in this world best? There’s something endearing and sad about the way demons wield so much power in the human world but are also constantly acting like fish out of water, trapped and confused in a strange land that doesn’t want them there.
Up next is Warped 3, a return to my darling sweetheart Kit. I’m looking forward to seeing Kit get more involved in the main plotline, since Robin and Tori’s paths have become closely entwined now.
I actually warmed up to Tori in this installment. (It shouldn’t have taken seven books to make me like her, but whatever.) We return to the struggles her character went through in the early books, and Tori gets a chance to reflect and prove that she’s no longer the reckless, prideful, disrespectful person she once was. The inclusion of her brother Justin in the plot was a great conduit to demonstrate Tori’s character development.
So at this point, I love Zylas, and now I love Eterran too. Why is it that I seem to like the demon characters in this world best? There’s something endearing and sad about the way demons wield so much power in the human world but are also constantly acting like fish out of water, trapped and confused in a strange land that doesn’t want them there.
Up next is Warped 3, a return to my darling sweetheart Kit. I’m looking forward to seeing Kit get more involved in the main plotline, since Robin and Tori’s paths have become closely entwined now.
July 1, 2022
Star Rating: �&; 5 MILLION BILLION TRILLION STARS
[ HOLY SH*T!!! LORD HELP ME. THIS WAS... I HAVE NO WORDS. NOT ONE.
(...Except HOLY SH*T?)
[ Can I just say, in the newsletter promo-ing this book release, this very quote was used!!!! teeeeheeheeee which is like all kinds of incredible, F*CKING just blow my mind level freaking awesomeness!!!! ]
Okay, give me a sec to learn to breathe again & let my head stop spinning & I learn to... um... words... again...
Alright. Guys. GUYS!!!!!!
This was, I kid you not, the BEST installment of Spellbound YET!!!! The Tears. Won’t. Stop.
Probably everything I ever could’ve ever asked for and MORE from Lost Talismans was given!
This BLEW ME SO FAR AWAY I THAT I ENDED UP IN OZ, Folks. Reading this may have been the ultimate adventure, and so absolutely fantastic that you’d THINK it was all just a dream, but I can assure you that it was 100% reality that I got to read this work of perfection! 😉
LET ME JUST SAY... this book reminded me of how much I need to let anyone and everyone who HASN’T yet picked up a book from the Guild Codex Universe (CodexVerse, as I so fondly call it) know... YOU NEED TO READ THESE BOOKS, NOW! Honestly, even if Urban Fantasy usually isn’t your thing... you are MISSING OUT. If you love YA/NA fantasy, I guarantee (well, everyone has their own tastes, obviously, but for the most part) you will fall in love as I have! This isn’t mere Urban Fantasy, this is UF at its absolute finest & transcends genres� it truly soars above any other Urban Fantasy series that I have read, in every single way.
Alright, Kids.
THIS BOOK. This book. My God, as the penultimate installment in the Spellbound series, I had VERY high expectations, and I am beyond ecstatic to say that claiming this was anything short of AN ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE... would be a straight-up crimeeee. I enjoyed it even more than the last installment, Druid Vices & Vodka! It was... it just had my heart racing, palms sweating, my heart swelling.... EVERYTHING in this novel seemed to be high stakes, and boy was the payout HUGE ! So many of the biggest questions we’ve been searching for have (seemingly) finally been answered, events we have been waiting to transpire have just begun, some of the answers to other secrets that we’ve been waiting for are THISCLOSE, and some mysteries are still anyone’s guess.
So... lets talk Ezra. ❤️
This book truly changed my mind about Ezra! I still don’t think that I ship him & Tori, though, because I think he needs to work on himself a bit more before he is truly ready for a relationship. But BOY did he go on a journey of TRANSFORMATION in this novel! My goodness his rollercoaster ride of emotions and revelations was just... perfect. I freakin LOVED Ezra in this book! He finally won me over, I gotta say!
Something I NEVER expected� I really LOVED getting to know Makiko a little better, actually, as well ! Interesting look into her character in this installment! I’m very curious what part she will play in the big finale! Shes definitely quite the layered character!
There was another appearance that was quite a surprise! I don’t want to spoil anything so I won’t say WHO it was, but getting to see their & Tori’s dynamic throughout the whole book was pretty damn amazing! ❤️
Some of the many secrets revealed truly shocked me! I am still desperately grasping at straws to figure out what in the world is going to end up happening in the finale!
I’d have to say that I am not even close to sure that even the things that seem concrete at this point are safe, and I WILLNOT be lulled into a false sense of security! Annette Marie always has something up her sleeve, & I am most definitely very suspicious. 🤔
Regardless...
THAT ENDING!!!!! 😱😱😱
Someone pinch me, am I dreaming?!? WOOOOOO!
I. AM. PUMPED.
SO FREAKIN� EXCITED FOR DAMNED SOULS & A SANGRIA !!!! It may be the last book, but despite me being sad that it will soon be over, above all else...
I’M BUCKLED UUUPPPPPPPPP, BUTTERCUP! Haha.
SO EXCITED!
So yeah again, this book was fantastic; 10/10 recommend. I mean... just see above. Haha
😭😭😭
HOLY SH*T
____________________
OMG WJTCDHJAHSGSHS (actual keyboard smash was necessary, TYVM) FINALLY!
ARCARCARC ARC ARC!
____________________
HELL YAH.
FREAKING. OUT.
[ HOLY SH*T!!! LORD HELP ME. THIS WAS... I HAVE NO WORDS. NOT ONE.
(...Except HOLY SH*T?)
[ Can I just say, in the newsletter promo-ing this book release, this very quote was used!!!! teeeeheeheeee which is like all kinds of incredible, F*CKING just blow my mind level freaking awesomeness!!!! ]
Okay, give me a sec to learn to breathe again & let my head stop spinning & I learn to... um... words... again...
Alright. Guys. GUYS!!!!!!
This was, I kid you not, the BEST installment of Spellbound YET!!!! The Tears. Won’t. Stop.
Probably everything I ever could’ve ever asked for and MORE from Lost Talismans was given!
This BLEW ME SO FAR AWAY I THAT I ENDED UP IN OZ, Folks. Reading this may have been the ultimate adventure, and so absolutely fantastic that you’d THINK it was all just a dream, but I can assure you that it was 100% reality that I got to read this work of perfection! 😉
LET ME JUST SAY... this book reminded me of how much I need to let anyone and everyone who HASN’T yet picked up a book from the Guild Codex Universe (CodexVerse, as I so fondly call it) know... YOU NEED TO READ THESE BOOKS, NOW! Honestly, even if Urban Fantasy usually isn’t your thing... you are MISSING OUT. If you love YA/NA fantasy, I guarantee (well, everyone has their own tastes, obviously, but for the most part) you will fall in love as I have! This isn’t mere Urban Fantasy, this is UF at its absolute finest & transcends genres� it truly soars above any other Urban Fantasy series that I have read, in every single way.
Alright, Kids.
THIS BOOK. This book. My God, as the penultimate installment in the Spellbound series, I had VERY high expectations, and I am beyond ecstatic to say that claiming this was anything short of AN ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE... would be a straight-up crimeeee. I enjoyed it even more than the last installment, Druid Vices & Vodka! It was... it just had my heart racing, palms sweating, my heart swelling.... EVERYTHING in this novel seemed to be high stakes, and boy was the payout HUGE ! So many of the biggest questions we’ve been searching for have (seemingly) finally been answered, events we have been waiting to transpire have just begun, some of the answers to other secrets that we’ve been waiting for are THISCLOSE, and some mysteries are still anyone’s guess.
So... lets talk Ezra. ❤️
This book truly changed my mind about Ezra! I still don’t think that I ship him & Tori, though, because I think he needs to work on himself a bit more before he is truly ready for a relationship. But BOY did he go on a journey of TRANSFORMATION in this novel! My goodness his rollercoaster ride of emotions and revelations was just... perfect. I freakin LOVED Ezra in this book! He finally won me over, I gotta say!
Something I NEVER expected� I really LOVED getting to know Makiko a little better, actually, as well ! Interesting look into her character in this installment! I’m very curious what part she will play in the big finale! Shes definitely quite the layered character!
There was another appearance that was quite a surprise! I don’t want to spoil anything so I won’t say WHO it was, but getting to see their & Tori’s dynamic throughout the whole book was pretty damn amazing! ❤️
Some of the many secrets revealed truly shocked me! I am still desperately grasping at straws to figure out what in the world is going to end up happening in the finale!
I’d have to say that I am not even close to sure that even the things that seem concrete at this point are safe, and I WILLNOT be lulled into a false sense of security! Annette Marie always has something up her sleeve, & I am most definitely very suspicious. 🤔
Regardless...
THAT ENDING!!!!! 😱😱😱
Someone pinch me, am I dreaming?!? WOOOOOO!
I. AM. PUMPED.
SO FREAKIN� EXCITED FOR DAMNED SOULS & A SANGRIA !!!! It may be the last book, but despite me being sad that it will soon be over, above all else...
I’M BUCKLED UUUPPPPPPPPP, BUTTERCUP! Haha.
SO EXCITED!
So yeah again, this book was fantastic; 10/10 recommend. I mean... just see above. Haha
😭😭😭
HOLY SH*T
____________________
OMG WJTCDHJAHSGSHS (actual keyboard smash was necessary, TYVM) FINALLY!
ARCARCARC ARC ARC!
____________________
HELL YAH.
FREAKING. OUT.
May 10, 2024
05/09/2024: Reread! (Audiobook.)
12/22/2022: Reread! (Audiobook.)
06/18/2021: Reread! (Audiobook.)
08/17/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
07/16/2020: Reread!
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
HOLY. BOOK. HANGOVER. I'm not even kidding. This series is so all-consuming and obsessive that I feel like an addict. And I've never been so happy to be blissfully hungover from a book before in my life.
The buildup that this series and the Demonized series have created is intoxicating. It's something that you can feel in your bones. Annette's immersive writing brings the reader right into the story so seamlessly. As always, I was really impressed with the way Annette blends both series together and combines the plots to create an overall story. I truly love all of the offshoots of the Guild Codex. Each series is special in its own way and adds to the overall world. I am exceedingly excited to experience the newest offshoot of the Guild Codex world, the Warped series when it debuts in August and see how it adds to the Guild Codex world. I just love how the plots of these series are self-contained yet still come together as a whole to create something so magical. Annette's plotting skills are truly brilliant and simply grand in scale. Truly ambitious. And what's even better is that the flow of each individual series and the overall combined plot is always smooth and never disjointed.
These characters get right under your skin and lodge right in your heart. I feel so passionate about these characters and their journeys. These characters will consume your thoughts well after you've finished reading. I really loved some of the character growth in this book for certain characters. We learn more about a certain bartender's past that really shines a light on her character and the way that she reacts to things in her life. A certain character makes a decision about his life and it really changes his demeanor. I really loved that Tori reconnected with a certain character in this book. It really warmed my heart. One of the things that I really love about this series is the wonderful representation of friendship. Tori and her mages have a special bond that is beautiful to experience with them through the pages.
What can I say about the romance in this book without spoilers? Not much. But I will say that for many of us that have a certain ship in this series, your heart may just burst into happy particles. Just saying.
Overall, this was another masterpiece from my favorite author. I love that she always surprises me and thrills me with each book that she releases. Her plots always blow my mind, her characters always consume my heart, and her writing is always flawless. This book was everything that I was hoping for and more than I could have imagined. I am so floored with this book. If you are a fan of this series then you are going to be amazed by this next installment. I wholeheartedly recommend this book and this entire series.
More reviews on my blog:
12/22/2022: Reread! (Audiobook.)
06/18/2021: Reread! (Audiobook.)
08/17/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
07/16/2020: Reread!
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
HOLY. BOOK. HANGOVER. I'm not even kidding. This series is so all-consuming and obsessive that I feel like an addict. And I've never been so happy to be blissfully hungover from a book before in my life.
The buildup that this series and the Demonized series have created is intoxicating. It's something that you can feel in your bones. Annette's immersive writing brings the reader right into the story so seamlessly. As always, I was really impressed with the way Annette blends both series together and combines the plots to create an overall story. I truly love all of the offshoots of the Guild Codex. Each series is special in its own way and adds to the overall world. I am exceedingly excited to experience the newest offshoot of the Guild Codex world, the Warped series when it debuts in August and see how it adds to the Guild Codex world. I just love how the plots of these series are self-contained yet still come together as a whole to create something so magical. Annette's plotting skills are truly brilliant and simply grand in scale. Truly ambitious. And what's even better is that the flow of each individual series and the overall combined plot is always smooth and never disjointed.
These characters get right under your skin and lodge right in your heart. I feel so passionate about these characters and their journeys. These characters will consume your thoughts well after you've finished reading. I really loved some of the character growth in this book for certain characters. We learn more about a certain bartender's past that really shines a light on her character and the way that she reacts to things in her life. A certain character makes a decision about his life and it really changes his demeanor. I really loved that Tori reconnected with a certain character in this book. It really warmed my heart. One of the things that I really love about this series is the wonderful representation of friendship. Tori and her mages have a special bond that is beautiful to experience with them through the pages.
What can I say about the romance in this book without spoilers? Not much. But I will say that for many of us that have a certain ship in this series, your heart may just burst into happy particles. Just saying.
Overall, this was another masterpiece from my favorite author. I love that she always surprises me and thrills me with each book that she releases. Her plots always blow my mind, her characters always consume my heart, and her writing is always flawless. This book was everything that I was hoping for and more than I could have imagined. I am so floored with this book. If you are a fan of this series then you are going to be amazed by this next installment. I wholeheartedly recommend this book and this entire series.
More reviews on my blog:
December 21, 2020
Q:
Having glimpsed the secret fae world, I was cool with nice, predictable human reality. (c)
Q:
I’d fought mages, sorcerers, witches, fae, and demons, but my new enemy was undefeatable and unstoppable: time. (c)
Q:
“What do you want?�
“Tequila. Lots of tequila.� (c)
So, it's tequila and tomb traipsing time. Time to recover things and friends lost and get rid of some nasty cults. Time to try and to the best of any situation.
'Massive asshole' Justin's working on diminishing that mass.
Tori hands Ezra his ass and some more. Gotta love her spunky ways. And she's growing not only on the readership but also up:
Q:
But I’m not like I used to be, you know. I don’t just impulsively charge headfirst into danger.�
Well …to be honest, I still did that occasionally, but it wasn’t impulsive anymore. I was deciding to charge headfirst into danger.
I wasn’t sure that was any better, though. (c)
She welcomes the world:
Q:
“Why are you so determined to be part of such a dangerous world?�
“It’s not all danger and ugliness, Justin. There’s beauty and wonder too.� (c)
Q:
մǰ?�...
“You’re seriously hot when you take out mages twice your size.� (c)
Q:
“And how will we do that?� he asked with a mutinous scowl, like I was suggesting we cancel Christmas. (c)
Q:
You shouldn’t talk to yourself. Your guildmates might notice, and wouldn’t that be exciting to explain? (c)
Q:
“You would be the ones who defiled the temple ruins in Enright, the site where so many of the Goddess’s beloved children lost their lives. And you would be the voyeurs who spied upon a sacred gathering of the circle in Portland. And you are the fools who slaughtered my loyal subjects in Salt Lake City.�
...
“And you would be the Magnus Dux,� I announced. “That’s a stupid name, by the way.�
...
“Well, we outnumber you, in case you can’t count that high,� I blustered. “So maybe we’ll spare your lives in exchange for information about your creepy cult.� (c)
Having glimpsed the secret fae world, I was cool with nice, predictable human reality. (c)
Q:
I’d fought mages, sorcerers, witches, fae, and demons, but my new enemy was undefeatable and unstoppable: time. (c)
Q:
“What do you want?�
“Tequila. Lots of tequila.� (c)
So, it's tequila and tomb traipsing time. Time to recover things and friends lost and get rid of some nasty cults. Time to try and to the best of any situation.
'Massive asshole' Justin's working on diminishing that mass.
Tori hands Ezra his ass and some more. Gotta love her spunky ways. And she's growing not only on the readership but also up:
Q:
But I’m not like I used to be, you know. I don’t just impulsively charge headfirst into danger.�
Well …to be honest, I still did that occasionally, but it wasn’t impulsive anymore. I was deciding to charge headfirst into danger.
I wasn’t sure that was any better, though. (c)
She welcomes the world:
Q:
“Why are you so determined to be part of such a dangerous world?�
“It’s not all danger and ugliness, Justin. There’s beauty and wonder too.� (c)
Q:
մǰ?�...
“You’re seriously hot when you take out mages twice your size.� (c)
Q:
“And how will we do that?� he asked with a mutinous scowl, like I was suggesting we cancel Christmas. (c)
Q:
You shouldn’t talk to yourself. Your guildmates might notice, and wouldn’t that be exciting to explain? (c)
Q:
“You would be the ones who defiled the temple ruins in Enright, the site where so many of the Goddess’s beloved children lost their lives. And you would be the voyeurs who spied upon a sacred gathering of the circle in Portland. And you are the fools who slaughtered my loyal subjects in Salt Lake City.�
...
“And you would be the Magnus Dux,� I announced. “That’s a stupid name, by the way.�
...
“Well, we outnumber you, in case you can’t count that high,� I blustered. “So maybe we’ll spare your lives in exchange for information about your creepy cult.� (c)
September 22, 2020
Originally posted at:
My Rating: 3 and a half stars
* Beware of spoilers for past books in this series.
I didn't enjoy this book to its fullest because I got in my own head! URGH. This sucks. I wanted to love this book. Heck, I've been looking forward to this book for years now. BUT. I want Robin and Zylas's story more! I know I can't skip the rest of this series and reread it later because I'll knowingly spoil it for myself. I want to read everything at the same time and that made me not adore this book like I wanted to from the start. Gosh, being a stan is hard!
Tori was really introspective in this novel. It was due to the circumstances she found herself and the guys in but it was still very much valid and appreciated. Kicking butt all the time and not having a chance to breathe is hard on anyone especially someone in her situation.
Erza! I'd like to say I had an inkling since the beginning but I didn't but at the same time, I'm so happy for Tori and him but also myself for always being on his team. He's finally got a fire in him (maybe quite literally?) to be done with his situation and it brought tears to my eyes. He's finally, maybe, possibly, going to be free and happy!
I loved seeing Kai back with the guys even if temporary. The ending wasn't a surprise but it did shock me. I wonder what we'll see transpiring between Erza and Robin in Robin's book!
The Audio Book:
The female narrator was amazing as ever but I really disliked the male narrator. He didn't have any differentiation between characters. Everyone's voice was the same and it had me confused for the minutes I had to listen to him speak.
My Rating: 3 and a half stars
* Beware of spoilers for past books in this series.
I didn't enjoy this book to its fullest because I got in my own head! URGH. This sucks. I wanted to love this book. Heck, I've been looking forward to this book for years now. BUT. I want Robin and Zylas's story more! I know I can't skip the rest of this series and reread it later because I'll knowingly spoil it for myself. I want to read everything at the same time and that made me not adore this book like I wanted to from the start. Gosh, being a stan is hard!
Tori was really introspective in this novel. It was due to the circumstances she found herself and the guys in but it was still very much valid and appreciated. Kicking butt all the time and not having a chance to breathe is hard on anyone especially someone in her situation.
Erza! I'd like to say I had an inkling since the beginning but I didn't but at the same time, I'm so happy for Tori and him but also myself for always being on his team. He's finally got a fire in him (maybe quite literally?) to be done with his situation and it brought tears to my eyes. He's finally, maybe, possibly, going to be free and happy!
I loved seeing Kai back with the guys even if temporary. The ending wasn't a surprise but it did shock me. I wonder what we'll see transpiring between Erza and Robin in Robin's book!
The Audio Book:
The female narrator was amazing as ever but I really disliked the male narrator. He didn't have any differentiation between characters. Everyone's voice was the same and it had me confused for the minutes I had to listen to him speak.
July 18, 2020
4 stars
This is a fantastic addition to the series, and as I basically always say...it's the best one yet. I love seeing old characters come back (why hello there Justin), and wondering where the story is going to take me next. I love being kept on my toes for what is going to happen next.
Lost Talismans takes place over the course of a couple of days. And there is a lot of action in those few days! I had to go back and reread some parts because this story is packed full with details and I was reading so fast I kept missing things. Also, The Romance. I'm not an Ezra shipper but GUYS. HELP ME. I'm questioning my #teamZak membership . We also get to see Ezra's POV for a couple of scenes, which is key to understanding the flow of not only this book but also the latest book in the Demonized series. It really helped round out the story of .
And last but not least.....that ending........ =D =D =D
This is a fantastic addition to the series, and as I basically always say...it's the best one yet. I love seeing old characters come back (why hello there Justin), and wondering where the story is going to take me next. I love being kept on my toes for what is going to happen next.
Lost Talismans takes place over the course of a couple of days. And there is a lot of action in those few days! I had to go back and reread some parts because this story is packed full with details and I was reading so fast I kept missing things. Also, The Romance. I'm not an Ezra shipper but GUYS. HELP ME. I'm questioning my #teamZak membership . We also get to see Ezra's POV for a couple of scenes, which is key to understanding the flow of not only this book but also the latest book in the Demonized series. It really helped round out the story of .
And last but not least.....that ending........ =D =D =D
October 11, 2023
Actually 3 1/2 Stars
With the conclusion of this book, we see that the Guild Codex books Spellbound and Demonized series have converged and it is important to go back (since I had left the read stream) to the author’s preferred reading order. This means finishing the Spellbound series with Tori, Ezra et all with Damned Souls and a Sangria and then Robin and Zylas' story in Delivering Evil for Experts . I will do a more complete review of all of these books upon completion.
With the exception of the last 30 pages, this book felt forced to me, and didn’t have the same flow that I have come to expect from reading the previous books in this series. Tori continues to do some truly stupid things (yea let’s show the amulet to the worst possible person), but we also see how she has grown as a person through the inclusion of her policeman brother into the plot line of this book, and we also get a little more insight into their back story.
If Tori’s brother has a more important part in this book, then Ezra (one of the three hot mages and Tori’s “crush�) appears in fewer pages (but we know how he is spending his time, he’s involved with Robin & Zylas in the Guild Codex: Demonized book Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped ).
I know this sounds confusing, this is book 7 of Spellbound and it has just merged with book 3 of Demonized so if you are at this point in the reading of this series you are jumping up and down going what, where when and how can we make all of this stuff happen. Can Annette really dig them all out of the whole she has dropped them into?
Even though this has proved to be my least favorite of the Guild Codex Spellbound series it is still a sold 3 1/2 stars and is still part of the best Urban Fantasy series going. As I have said previously, these books are creative, fun and a very good way to forget about all of the distractions going on in our real life worlds.
If you want to read my review of the Demonized book Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped Click Here
With the conclusion of this book, we see that the Guild Codex books Spellbound and Demonized series have converged and it is important to go back (since I had left the read stream) to the author’s preferred reading order. This means finishing the Spellbound series with Tori, Ezra et all with Damned Souls and a Sangria and then Robin and Zylas' story in Delivering Evil for Experts . I will do a more complete review of all of these books upon completion.
With the exception of the last 30 pages, this book felt forced to me, and didn’t have the same flow that I have come to expect from reading the previous books in this series. Tori continues to do some truly stupid things (yea let’s show the amulet to the worst possible person), but we also see how she has grown as a person through the inclusion of her policeman brother into the plot line of this book, and we also get a little more insight into their back story.
If Tori’s brother has a more important part in this book, then Ezra (one of the three hot mages and Tori’s “crush�) appears in fewer pages (but we know how he is spending his time, he’s involved with Robin & Zylas in the Guild Codex: Demonized book Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped ).
I know this sounds confusing, this is book 7 of Spellbound and it has just merged with book 3 of Demonized so if you are at this point in the reading of this series you are jumping up and down going what, where when and how can we make all of this stuff happen. Can Annette really dig them all out of the whole she has dropped them into?
Even though this has proved to be my least favorite of the Guild Codex Spellbound series it is still a sold 3 1/2 stars and is still part of the best Urban Fantasy series going. As I have said previously, these books are creative, fun and a very good way to forget about all of the distractions going on in our real life worlds.
If you want to read my review of the Demonized book Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped Click Here
October 5, 2020
After the last installment, I am just reeling with ALL THE FEELS!!! I cannot wait for my next fix!!
Also, I am sure I am not the only one but I am seriously hoping that Zak my beautiful dark druid baby gets his own series in the guild codex universe!!
Also, I am sure I am not the only one but I am seriously hoping that Zak
August 30, 2020
i'm just excited for Tori and co's reaction when they work out that Zylas and Robin are a thing. oh, and i'm excited for Zylas and Robin to be a thing hehe.
February 4, 2021
These books just keep getting better and better. And the fact that there is only one book left in both Spellbound and Demonized is very hard to digest.
But after that ending , how the f does one stay away from picking up the next book?
It's humanely impossible.
But after that ending , how the f does one stay away from picking up the next book?
It's humanely impossible.
December 29, 2021
All the story threads started six books ago finally come together in Lost Talismans and a Tequila, the seventh and penultimate book in the Guild Codex: Spellbound series by Annette Marie. It's about bloody time! Tori continues her personal mission: Save Ezra from his demonic fate. Was it worth the wait? Yes it was.
Lots of action and magic to go around. The build up to that relationship for Tori which has been hinted at for three books is finally starting to pay off. Talk about a slow burn romance.
At this point I have to admit that I haven't read the Demonized sub-series and part of me wishes I'd read Robin's story in the proper publication order along with Spellbound. At the same time I'm super excited at all the things I learned right along with Tori about demons, demon mages and the differences in their magic. The final plot twist left me stunned. This is easily my favorite book in the series. I can't believe there's only one more book to go.
I listened to the audio book narrated by Kris Dukehart and Teddy Hamilton. That's right, there are some chapters from Ezra's perspective and a separate narrator for them. Talk about an unexpected surprise! Guess I'll pay more attention to the Audible descriptions in the future.
Lots of action and magic to go around. The build up to that relationship for Tori which has been hinted at for three books is finally starting to pay off. Talk about a slow burn romance.
At this point I have to admit that I haven't read the Demonized sub-series and part of me wishes I'd read Robin's story in the proper publication order along with Spellbound. At the same time I'm super excited at all the things I learned right along with Tori about demons, demon mages and the differences in their magic. The final plot twist left me stunned. This is easily my favorite book in the series. I can't believe there's only one more book to go.
I listened to the audio book narrated by Kris Dukehart and Teddy Hamilton. That's right, there are some chapters from Ezra's perspective and a separate narrator for them. Talk about an unexpected surprise! Guess I'll pay more attention to the Audible descriptions in the future.
July 7, 2020
This is the one I've been waiting for!
First off, if you haven't started this series yet and somehow find yourself reading this review, please do yourself a favor and pick up The Guild Codex: Spellbound, Three Mages and a Margarita! This series is a sassy UF adventure with an ultra slow-burn romance subplot, and gets a little dark as it moves on. It's non-stop action, excellent world building, and has extremely likeable characters. Make no mistake though, once you're in, you're in!
Once again, I find myself saying this is the best in the series so far. Being the penultimate book in Spellbound, a lot of subplots have been resolved. Namely, some much needed reunions for Tori. However, there are still some huge problems that Tori and friends will need to deal with in the last book and I have no clue how Annette Marie plans to finish up this series. Rest assured it will most likely be a pulse-pounding rollercoaster ride with a side of straight-punch to the feels.
So what's the big deal with this book?
“We’re going to Enright.�
Yes, we get a full backstory and up close and personal look at Enright, the former location of the largest known enclave of highly illegal demon mages. Tori is looking at the last best chance of saving Ezra, all based on a tip from a demon. What they find will lead them on a crazy and increasingly dangerous mission across the Western United States, with only a hope and a prayer that they can find a way to safely use the imailatē et Vh'alyir. It's all very shocking.
“How long have you been talking to my demon?�
There is a lot of emotional angst in this book, and rightly so. All of Tori's secrets are coming out and she's going to have to face a reckoning. If you've been reading The Guild Codex: Demonized you'd know that there is trouble in paradise, and all in the midst of the insane mission that she's about to go on. This whole book is one gut punch after another. It just made the experience that much more harrowing. The page turning was non-stop.
What's my absolute favorite thing about this book? Ezra! I've been a pretty strong advocate for this boy. He is by far my favorite character in the series. (Maybe ever. 😲) Seeing Ezra's truths just made me love him even more. He's a hero in my eyes and absolutely amazing because�
'What depth of resilience did it take to lose everyone you loved in a single day and keep going? What kind of resolve did it take to suppress the demon inside you, day after day after day, and keep going? How much tenacity did it take to face a life of loneliness and secrets that would end in death and madness, and keep going?'
Getting an up close and personal look at how much this guy has to fight internally was a truly eye opening thing. So much character development! I don't think I've ever encountered a stronger character. And that's saying a lot. And once he's found some fight? Yeah, look out. Ezra is fire.
The ending was crazy good. We got some character crossovers and a plan! I'm super stoked for what's coming next in The Guild Codex.
*I received an ARC from the publisher, but my opinions and fangirling are all me.*
First off, if you haven't started this series yet and somehow find yourself reading this review, please do yourself a favor and pick up The Guild Codex: Spellbound, Three Mages and a Margarita! This series is a sassy UF adventure with an ultra slow-burn romance subplot, and gets a little dark as it moves on. It's non-stop action, excellent world building, and has extremely likeable characters. Make no mistake though, once you're in, you're in!
Once again, I find myself saying this is the best in the series so far. Being the penultimate book in Spellbound, a lot of subplots have been resolved. Namely, some much needed reunions for Tori. However, there are still some huge problems that Tori and friends will need to deal with in the last book and I have no clue how Annette Marie plans to finish up this series. Rest assured it will most likely be a pulse-pounding rollercoaster ride with a side of straight-punch to the feels.
So what's the big deal with this book?
“We’re going to Enright.�
Yes, we get a full backstory and up close and personal look at Enright, the former location of the largest known enclave of highly illegal demon mages. Tori is looking at the last best chance of saving Ezra, all based on a tip from a demon. What they find will lead them on a crazy and increasingly dangerous mission across the Western United States, with only a hope and a prayer that they can find a way to safely use the imailatē et Vh'alyir. It's all very shocking.
“How long have you been talking to my demon?�
There is a lot of emotional angst in this book, and rightly so. All of Tori's secrets are coming out and she's going to have to face a reckoning. If you've been reading The Guild Codex: Demonized you'd know that there is trouble in paradise, and all in the midst of the insane mission that she's about to go on. This whole book is one gut punch after another. It just made the experience that much more harrowing. The page turning was non-stop.
What's my absolute favorite thing about this book? Ezra! I've been a pretty strong advocate for this boy. He is by far my favorite character in the series. (Maybe ever. 😲) Seeing Ezra's truths just made me love him even more. He's a hero in my eyes and absolutely amazing because�
'What depth of resilience did it take to lose everyone you loved in a single day and keep going? What kind of resolve did it take to suppress the demon inside you, day after day after day, and keep going? How much tenacity did it take to face a life of loneliness and secrets that would end in death and madness, and keep going?'
Getting an up close and personal look at how much this guy has to fight internally was a truly eye opening thing. So much character development! I don't think I've ever encountered a stronger character. And that's saying a lot. And once he's found some fight? Yeah, look out. Ezra is fire.
The ending was crazy good. We got some character crossovers and a plan! I'm super stoked for what's coming next in The Guild Codex.
*I received an ARC from the publisher, but my opinions and fangirling are all me.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2020
I’ve sat on this review for a couple days now and honestly, I still have no idea what to say. I really liked the book and reading about these characters felt like the best kind of reunion. You have NO idea how many times i momentarily put it down to yell I MISSED THEM SO MUCH, and annoyed my mom.
Anyway though. I just. I have a lot of feelings about how much thought and time and consideration Annette Marie has put into these characters. I love character driven books a lot and I looooove the nuances of their relationships and it’s something she always—ALWAYS—blows me away with. Whether it’s familial or platonic or romantic, Marie is top notch with this kinda thing.
So I absolutely loved the addition of Justin in this book! I was really nervous about how this was going to happen—their reconciliation, I mean—and I absolutely loved seeing Tori interact with her out-of-place older brother in dangerous mythic situations. He brought up a lot of good points throughout, making Tori rethink some things, but also supporting her no matter what. And to totally sound like a bro here: that shit was stunning.
I’m also surprised with the route she took with Kai and Makiko! I wish it were explored a little more. I can see why it wasn’t a big focus, given the circumstances, but... I don’t know, I think this might just be me, but it just felt toned down—but like I said, it’s just me! His situation seemed desperately dire and dangerous to me in the previous book so I was worried about Kai here. But I loved how Marie had us see through a different lens about Makiko. I hope to see more of her!
Can I just say I love these demons? I know I expected them bc of Robin, but wow. I was NOT EXPECTING the depth of how far this series would go. Like never in my wildest dreams did I think the heart of this series and the main antagonist would be this... well just THIS. I have no words! Lost Talismans is addicting as every other book in the guild codex series so at this point I should not be surprised that Marie managed to make this seem even MORE dangerous, and even more unexpected. To figure out how everything is was linked and tied together, every single adventure... WHEW.
I can’t believe there’s only one more book for each of the sister series! I’m so nervous and excited to see how all of this ties together in the end. Mostly just nervous though. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT TO EXPECT. 4 stars for this one and I can’t wait for the finale!
Anyway though. I just. I have a lot of feelings about how much thought and time and consideration Annette Marie has put into these characters. I love character driven books a lot and I looooove the nuances of their relationships and it’s something she always—ALWAYS—blows me away with. Whether it’s familial or platonic or romantic, Marie is top notch with this kinda thing.
So I absolutely loved the addition of Justin in this book! I was really nervous about how this was going to happen—their reconciliation, I mean—and I absolutely loved seeing Tori interact with her out-of-place older brother in dangerous mythic situations. He brought up a lot of good points throughout, making Tori rethink some things, but also supporting her no matter what. And to totally sound like a bro here: that shit was stunning.
I’m also surprised with the route she took with Kai and Makiko! I wish it were explored a little more. I can see why it wasn’t a big focus, given the circumstances, but... I don’t know, I think this might just be me, but it just felt toned down—but like I said, it’s just me! His situation seemed desperately dire and dangerous to me in the previous book so I was worried about Kai here. But I loved how Marie had us see through a different lens about Makiko. I hope to see more of her!
Can I just say I love these demons? I know I expected them bc of Robin, but wow. I was NOT EXPECTING the depth of how far this series would go. Like never in my wildest dreams did I think the heart of this series and the main antagonist would be this... well just THIS. I have no words! Lost Talismans is addicting as every other book in the guild codex series so at this point I should not be surprised that Marie managed to make this seem even MORE dangerous, and even more unexpected. To figure out how everything is was linked and tied together, every single adventure... WHEW.
I can’t believe there’s only one more book for each of the sister series! I’m so nervous and excited to see how all of this ties together in the end. Mostly just nervous though. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT TO EXPECT. 4 stars for this one and I can’t wait for the finale!
February 26, 2024
After waiting and waiting it's finally here!!! Did I go to sleep and pick this up in-between jobs Like a normal person? No way! I stayed up and read it all in one go. Sleep is for wimps! Was it worth it? God yes! I can't believe there is only one Spellbound left! And I have to wait until October!
Action packed, Tori continues her hunt for a way to save Ezra. In the process she opens up the biggest, most dangerous can of worms that could ever be opened! Fights to the death, magic and OMG some Ezra and Tori... hehehe. Then, at the very end something I really wanted to happen, FINALLY did! And now I have to wait until October. Cries. Now, should I go to work... or read it again! Who needs work? Work if for the weak! And people who like to eat...and sleep with a roof and A/C... sigh...
Action packed, Tori continues her hunt for a way to save Ezra. In the process she opens up the biggest, most dangerous can of worms that could ever be opened! Fights to the death, magic and OMG some Ezra and Tori... hehehe. Then, at the very end something I really wanted to happen, FINALLY did! And now I have to wait until October. Cries. Now, should I go to work... or read it again! Who needs work? Work if for the weak! And people who like to eat...and sleep with a roof and A/C... sigh...
November 4, 2021
It's awesome when you find a series you really enjoy and it's long and things are happening and it's not boring not even one little bit!
Annette Marie, you're amazing, keep it up!
Annette Marie, you're amazing, keep it up!
April 9, 2024
On en est au septième tome de Tori Dawson et on arrive à un moment où il est essentiel de suivre l’ordre de parution de cette série et de sa saga cousine Robin Page, les évènements s’emballent et les deux séries se répondent donc si vous arrivez à ce tome et que vous n’avez pas lu Chasser les créatures diaboliques, niveau confirmé, vous allez loupé des trucs. Mais pour les autres, on peut y aller.
Tori doit se bouger pour sauver Ezra avant qu’il ne soit trop tard, et elle va aller jusqu’� farfouiller dans le passé du jeune homme et remonter la piste de mage-démons pas très glop. Le truc c’est que Tori a perdu beaucoup de ses artefacts et machin-choses magiques qui constituaient son arsenal, et Kai est retenu par� Ses obligations familiales, dirons-nous� Donc c’est en effectif réduit et un peu les mains dans les poches que la barmaid badass va partir sauver le mâle.
Quel plaisir de suivre cette série et de voir tout l’édifice prendre forme pour le grand final à venir. Le rythme ne retombe jamais dans ce tome 7, on a 300 pages d’action, de surprises et de drame non-stop. On lève un peu le voile sur le passé d’Ezra et ce qui a fait de lui ce qu’il est aujourd’hui, le gang enquête en effet sur la secte de tarés qui s’amusaient à faire des expérimentations démoniaques sur des gosses, et Tori va foutre les pieds dans un sacré bordel.
Diminuée dans sa capacité à botter des culs, Tori a aussi des moments de doutes (crédibles et fort bien amenés) mais elle reste fidèle à elle-même donc ON VA TAPER LA GUEULE DES MÉCHANTS ! Mais en dehors de l’action et du rythme, ce qui porte la série c’est cette galerie de personnages, cette famille qui veille les uns sur les autres sans faillir ou presque. J’aime beaucoup cette dynamique de bienveillance et de confiance qui anime tout le monde, ça fout la patate. L’autrice arrive à faire vivre la troupe avec beaucoup de talent. Je vous ai dit que j’adore Darius ? Darius c’est le boss, il est calme, il protège les gens, il est trop cool.
En parallèle, on va avancer un peu aussi du côté de Kai, enfin, on va pas vraiment avancer mais certaines choses vont être éclaircies, nuancées, quand le bellâtre débarque avec Makiko. Cette dernière va d’abord s’attirer les foudres de Tori, évidemment, mais elle se révélera une alliée de poids et pourra commencer à s’intégrer dans le groupe, tout en donnant sa perspective à tout le foutoir de la famille Yamada. Encore une fois, construction de personnages, des perspectives et des relations, tout est au poil.
Encore une excellente lecture pour cette série qui continue à nous proposer de l’action, du fun et des personnages super-cools. On va pas trop traîner pour lire le huitième et dernier tome qui est déjà sorti !
Tori doit se bouger pour sauver Ezra avant qu’il ne soit trop tard, et elle va aller jusqu’� farfouiller dans le passé du jeune homme et remonter la piste de mage-démons pas très glop. Le truc c’est que Tori a perdu beaucoup de ses artefacts et machin-choses magiques qui constituaient son arsenal, et Kai est retenu par� Ses obligations familiales, dirons-nous� Donc c’est en effectif réduit et un peu les mains dans les poches que la barmaid badass va partir sauver le mâle.
Quel plaisir de suivre cette série et de voir tout l’édifice prendre forme pour le grand final à venir. Le rythme ne retombe jamais dans ce tome 7, on a 300 pages d’action, de surprises et de drame non-stop. On lève un peu le voile sur le passé d’Ezra et ce qui a fait de lui ce qu’il est aujourd’hui, le gang enquête en effet sur la secte de tarés qui s’amusaient à faire des expérimentations démoniaques sur des gosses, et Tori va foutre les pieds dans un sacré bordel.
Diminuée dans sa capacité à botter des culs, Tori a aussi des moments de doutes (crédibles et fort bien amenés) mais elle reste fidèle à elle-même donc ON VA TAPER LA GUEULE DES MÉCHANTS ! Mais en dehors de l’action et du rythme, ce qui porte la série c’est cette galerie de personnages, cette famille qui veille les uns sur les autres sans faillir ou presque. J’aime beaucoup cette dynamique de bienveillance et de confiance qui anime tout le monde, ça fout la patate. L’autrice arrive à faire vivre la troupe avec beaucoup de talent. Je vous ai dit que j’adore Darius ? Darius c’est le boss, il est calme, il protège les gens, il est trop cool.
En parallèle, on va avancer un peu aussi du côté de Kai, enfin, on va pas vraiment avancer mais certaines choses vont être éclaircies, nuancées, quand le bellâtre débarque avec Makiko. Cette dernière va d’abord s’attirer les foudres de Tori, évidemment, mais elle se révélera une alliée de poids et pourra commencer à s’intégrer dans le groupe, tout en donnant sa perspective à tout le foutoir de la famille Yamada. Encore une fois, construction de personnages, des perspectives et des relations, tout est au poil.
Encore une excellente lecture pour cette série qui continue à nous proposer de l’action, du fun et des personnages super-cools. On va pas trop traîner pour lire le huitième et dernier tome qui est déjà sorti !
October 27, 2020
Lost Talismans and a Tequila
The Guild Codex: Spellbound, Book 7
By: Annette Marie
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart, Teddy Hamilton
I love this series and the demon series! Tory is not my favorite character but I enjoy the story. I enjoy the other characters much more! Lots of magic, evil power hungry people, demons, and creatures. Touch of romance with a moderate amount of action, and a lot of terrific fantasy!
Great narration!
The Guild Codex: Spellbound, Book 7
By: Annette Marie
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart, Teddy Hamilton
I love this series and the demon series! Tory is not my favorite character but I enjoy the story. I enjoy the other characters much more! Lots of magic, evil power hungry people, demons, and creatures. Touch of romance with a moderate amount of action, and a lot of terrific fantasy!
Great narration!
August 26, 2020
Yay! I absolutely adore this series and am so glad not only that I found it (and the spin-off) but that Annette Marie writes incredibly fast without compromising the integrity of her work. This series is truly so much fun and a great series for just about everyone. I can't believe it and Robin's story is almost over. I just know though that I will be both satisfied with how they end and very sad to see it be over.
July 15, 2020
If you haven’t read this Urban Fantasy series yet, or it’s sister series you are literally missing out on everything that is good in this world. 😫
September 3, 2020
Time is running out for Ezra. Our girl Tori and his friends Aaron and Kai are looking for a way to save him. Tori is hunting for a demon mage summoner and summoning book. Road trip! Aaron is with her as they go back to the site where it all began� only someone is following. Soon others will join including Kai and oh joy he’s brought his fiancee Makiko. 👀
The story started off slow then morphed into non-stop action, battles to the death, exciting events and twists that kept me listening into the wee hours. Forget savoring this series. I must devour every installment.
While Tori and friends are off battling, we spend some time with Ezra and his demon. Talks with his demon were interesting and this ties back with events we witnessed in the Demonized series.
This series has become heavily intertwined with the Demonized series and I recommend reading both in the order of their release date, bouncing between the two as I have done. It’s brilliantly done and has kept me on edge.
This series is almost over, and the stakes have never been higher. Marie left us in a good place, even if we will have to wait for answers.
This series/world was made for audio, and I have loved Chris Dukehart as the voice of Tori and the characters. I appreciated Teddy Hamilton and his voice for Ezra, even if I was connected to Chris’s voice for him. These two narrators play well together from pacing to tone.
Listeners/readers looking for an action-packed urban fantasy series with humor, a touch of romance, unique skills and feisty endearing characters need to step into this world!
The story started off slow then morphed into non-stop action, battles to the death, exciting events and twists that kept me listening into the wee hours. Forget savoring this series. I must devour every installment.
While Tori and friends are off battling, we spend some time with Ezra and his demon. Talks with his demon were interesting and this ties back with events we witnessed in the Demonized series.
This series has become heavily intertwined with the Demonized series and I recommend reading both in the order of their release date, bouncing between the two as I have done. It’s brilliantly done and has kept me on edge.
This series is almost over, and the stakes have never been higher. Marie left us in a good place, even if we will have to wait for answers.
This series/world was made for audio, and I have loved Chris Dukehart as the voice of Tori and the characters. I appreciated Teddy Hamilton and his voice for Ezra, even if I was connected to Chris’s voice for him. These two narrators play well together from pacing to tone.
Listeners/readers looking for an action-packed urban fantasy series with humor, a touch of romance, unique skills and feisty endearing characters need to step into this world!
March 2, 2023
Great Series So Far
So far this is a really good series. The last book dragged a bit for me but this one really took off again. I can’t wait to read the finale!!
So far this is a really good series. The last book dragged a bit for me but this one really took off again. I can’t wait to read the finale!!
December 9, 2020
Tori, Aaron, and Kai leave Vancouver to try to investigate the cult that Ezra belonged to as a kid, and incidentally, the one that turned him into a demon mage. They are hoping to find something that might help Ezra survive, instead, they discover that the cult wasn't wiped out as originally thought and poor Ezra is in more trouble than ever.
Tori is just plain awesome. She is so headstrong and has a fierce loyalty to her friends, and man does she love Ezra. I felt for her in this book. She has to lie to him in order to go off on this mission to try to save him and the feelings of guilt and hopelessness threaten to bring her down. But this girl, she is too stubborn to give up. Gotta love that.
The end of this book has Tori and the gang teaming up with Robin and Zylas officially. I am about to read to see what Robin was doing while Tori was in the US. I love how these two series have parallel storylines for the next few books. I'm not sure I am reading them in the correct order, but I think I am. I am getting a kick out of how the two heroines of these series interact with each other.
Tori is just plain awesome. She is so headstrong and has a fierce loyalty to her friends, and man does she love Ezra. I felt for her in this book. She has to lie to him in order to go off on this mission to try to save him and the feelings of guilt and hopelessness threaten to bring her down. But this girl, she is too stubborn to give up. Gotta love that.
The end of this book has Tori and the gang teaming up with Robin and Zylas officially. I am about to read to see what Robin was doing while Tori was in the US. I love how these two series have parallel storylines for the next few books. I'm not sure I am reading them in the correct order, but I think I am. I am getting a kick out of how the two heroines of these series interact with each other.
January 1, 2024
May all the books (...okay, let's make that at least some) I read in 2024 be this entertaining, enjoyable and simply awesome 🙏❤️
My love for Annette Marie is increasing to unbelievable heights. Her books are such a perfect escapism from reality to me and I can't be thankful enough for that.
My love for Annette Marie is increasing to unbelievable heights. Her books are such a perfect escapism from reality to me and I can't be thankful enough for that.
December 17, 2024
2022: 4.5
2023: 5.0
Average: 4.75
2023: 5.0
Average: 4.75
August 17, 2023
Finally I found the time and the mood to start Lost Talismans and a Tequila. I'm reading the whole Guild Codex Univers books with the #cakeeaters. Thank you for pushing me, to keep up with you.
I loved this story very much. Finally things seem to come together. I love that some relationship issues are solved, other relationships are mended. I love Darius for sticking with Tori.
Tori grew a lot. She still has abandonment issues, but she copes better with them. She is also trying to better with her friens.
I enjoyed the story. Sadly we mainly get interaction between Tori, Aaron and Tori's brother. Later Kai and his keeper join them. At the end we get Ezra. Moving on to the next book in the authors reading Order which is Warped #3.
I loved this story very much. Finally things seem to come together. I love that some relationship issues are solved, other relationships are mended. I love Darius for sticking with Tori.
Tori grew a lot. She still has abandonment issues, but she copes better with them. She is also trying to better with her friens.
I enjoyed the story. Sadly we mainly get interaction between Tori, Aaron and Tori's brother. Later Kai and his keeper join them. At the end we get Ezra. Moving on to the next book in the authors reading Order which is Warped #3.
August 25, 2020
After waiting and waiting it's finally here!!! Did I go to sleep and pick this up in-between jobs Like a normal person? No way! I stayed up and read it all in one go. Sleep is for wimps! Was it worth it? God yes! I can't believe there is only one Spellbound left! And I have to wait until October!
Action packed, Tori continues her hunt for a way to save Ezra. In the process she opens up the biggest, most dangerous can of worms that could ever be opened! Fights to the death, magic and OMG some Ezra and Tori... hehehe. Then, at the very end something I really wanted to happen, FINALLY did! And now I have to wait until October. Cries. Now, should I go to work... or read it again! Who needs work? Work if for the weak! And people who like to eat...and sleep with a roof and A/C... sigh...
Action packed, Tori continues her hunt for a way to save Ezra. In the process she opens up the biggest, most dangerous can of worms that could ever be opened! Fights to the death, magic and OMG some Ezra and Tori... hehehe. Then, at the very end something I really wanted to happen, FINALLY did! And now I have to wait until October. Cries. Now, should I go to work... or read it again! Who needs work? Work if for the weak! And people who like to eat...and sleep with a roof and A/C... sigh...
July 11, 2020
As usual entertaining, but annoying that is took 3-4 Spellbound and 3 Demonized books to reach the stage where the necessary parties finally got together and then it is left to wrap up in yet another book.
Surely another 5-6 pages could have completed and wrapped up this, oh so long, sub-plot.
What do you bet that this process will be extended yet again - getting boring.
Hopefully the final addition to the series ends with Tori receiving permanent magical abilities.
Surely another 5-6 pages could have completed and wrapped up this, oh so long, sub-plot.
What do you bet that this process will be extended yet again - getting boring.
Hopefully the final addition to the series ends with Tori receiving permanent magical abilities.
January 13, 2024
Not a review. Can we get it now? I love the series.
True Review now!!!!! Oh My GOD! I'm bloody love it all. It would be nice to see a Movie or TV series for this book series. I totally love it!
True Review now!!!!! Oh My GOD! I'm bloody love it all. It would be nice to see a Movie or TV series for this book series. I totally love it!
July 5, 2020
I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
Lost Talismans and a Tequila is the seventh book in the Spellbound series, which is closely tied together with the Demonized series and with each book even more so. After the explosive ending of book 6 and then the hints we got about what was going on in the third Demonized book I was really curious what Tori and her friends got up to in this book and it really was another awesome read.
Tory is determined to safe Ezra and in this book she goes of on a quest to find more information and hopefully the grimoire that can tell her more about how he became a demon mage and hopefully figure out a way to undo that. It's amazing to see how far she's willing to go and fight for Ezra and there are some difficult scenes as well when some truth come to light. But there are also plenty that show her dedication for her friends and much she cares about Ezra.
The story started off a bit slow, but maybe that's just me, it always takes me a while to get into these books. And then once I am get into it I don't want to stop reading and just keep on reading to find out what's going to happen next. It's fast paced and action packed and I liked seeing them investigate this thing. There are quite some big revelations and it feels like slowly some big important pieces fall on it's place about the bad guy behind it all and what he has in place and it's awesome to see it all come together. And also a bit creepy and frightening, because this thing is even bigger than I expected. And I am so excited for the last books in these series!
Tori is such an interesting character to read about, she has no magic of her own yet she gets into all of these dangerous situations. And in this book she has to face her fear that she's not as helpful as she thinks, after she lost some of her best talismans at the end of the last book she now has few things she can use in a fight, but still she rushes into them. In this book she also has to face some her fears and doubt, which was great to see. I feel like we get a better for her character with each book.
This book even has a few chapters from Ezra's point of view, which I think help bridge some gaps that would otherwise exist. On the other hand it almost made me like him less understanding more of what went on in his head and how defeated he was and I really liked seeing how his attitude changes throughout the book and I am really curious what will happen next after what he did at the end of this book. It sure gave some interesting insights in his character and personality.
Due to certain events we see more of Aaron and Kai and I liked getting to see more of them. There is a conversation with Makiko as well that was quite illuminating and I am still not sure how that whole plot line will play out. And we also see more of Justin, Tori's brother, which was great. And Hoshi.
As I mentioned before this series is closely tied together with the Demonized series and at times it can be hard to remember everything that happens. This is a series that I would love to re-read one day with the books close together so I can really see all the connections. Because at times I feel like I am missing half of the clues as there's so much going on and these two series show two sides of the same big storyline. While you can read only one series, I think you get the most out of it when you read them both as it just increases the enjoyment of both. You get hints about Tori is up to in the third Demonized book and then in this book you find out more about it and discover information that has impact on Robin's storyline as well. It really is well done and I can't wait to read the last books in both series.
To summarize: This was another great read in this series. It's fast paced with plenty of action and lots of things going on. As well as some big reveals and more information that comes to light about the big baddie behind this all. It was awesome seeing it all unfold. I like Tori as a main character, how she just a normal human involved in the world of magic and this book focuses on that even more again after what happened in the last book. I like how we get to know even more about her and her fears in this book. There are is plenty about the side characters which was great. And some additional information about Ezra, at first I wasn't really sure if I liked having his point of view, but I liked seeing his change in attitude throughout the book. It's really amazing seeing this series and the demonized one intertwining and I think you get the most out of it if you read both series. I can't wait for the finales to both series!
Lost Talismans and a Tequila is the seventh book in the Spellbound series, which is closely tied together with the Demonized series and with each book even more so. After the explosive ending of book 6 and then the hints we got about what was going on in the third Demonized book I was really curious what Tori and her friends got up to in this book and it really was another awesome read.
Tory is determined to safe Ezra and in this book she goes of on a quest to find more information and hopefully the grimoire that can tell her more about how he became a demon mage and hopefully figure out a way to undo that. It's amazing to see how far she's willing to go and fight for Ezra and there are some difficult scenes as well when some truth come to light. But there are also plenty that show her dedication for her friends and much she cares about Ezra.
The story started off a bit slow, but maybe that's just me, it always takes me a while to get into these books. And then once I am get into it I don't want to stop reading and just keep on reading to find out what's going to happen next. It's fast paced and action packed and I liked seeing them investigate this thing. There are quite some big revelations and it feels like slowly some big important pieces fall on it's place about the bad guy behind it all and what he has in place and it's awesome to see it all come together. And also a bit creepy and frightening, because this thing is even bigger than I expected. And I am so excited for the last books in these series!
Tori is such an interesting character to read about, she has no magic of her own yet she gets into all of these dangerous situations. And in this book she has to face her fear that she's not as helpful as she thinks, after she lost some of her best talismans at the end of the last book she now has few things she can use in a fight, but still she rushes into them. In this book she also has to face some her fears and doubt, which was great to see. I feel like we get a better for her character with each book.
This book even has a few chapters from Ezra's point of view, which I think help bridge some gaps that would otherwise exist. On the other hand it almost made me like him less understanding more of what went on in his head and how defeated he was and I really liked seeing how his attitude changes throughout the book and I am really curious what will happen next after what he did at the end of this book. It sure gave some interesting insights in his character and personality.
Due to certain events we see more of Aaron and Kai and I liked getting to see more of them. There is a conversation with Makiko as well that was quite illuminating and I am still not sure how that whole plot line will play out. And we also see more of Justin, Tori's brother, which was great. And Hoshi.
As I mentioned before this series is closely tied together with the Demonized series and at times it can be hard to remember everything that happens. This is a series that I would love to re-read one day with the books close together so I can really see all the connections. Because at times I feel like I am missing half of the clues as there's so much going on and these two series show two sides of the same big storyline. While you can read only one series, I think you get the most out of it when you read them both as it just increases the enjoyment of both. You get hints about Tori is up to in the third Demonized book and then in this book you find out more about it and discover information that has impact on Robin's storyline as well. It really is well done and I can't wait to read the last books in both series.
To summarize: This was another great read in this series. It's fast paced with plenty of action and lots of things going on. As well as some big reveals and more information that comes to light about the big baddie behind this all. It was awesome seeing it all unfold. I like Tori as a main character, how she just a normal human involved in the world of magic and this book focuses on that even more again after what happened in the last book. I like how we get to know even more about her and her fears in this book. There are is plenty about the side characters which was great. And some additional information about Ezra, at first I wasn't really sure if I liked having his point of view, but I liked seeing his change in attitude throughout the book. It's really amazing seeing this series and the demonized one intertwining and I think you get the most out of it if you read both series. I can't wait for the finales to both series!
July 9, 2020
Note: I received an Advanced Reading Copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Let’s see� I finished this book in a day while feeling the complete maelstrom of emotions, I immediately started again from the beginning and I thought about these characters for the whole week afterwards. Clearly, it’s been another Annette Marie masterpiece.
Every single time after finishing one of these books, my heart is so full that I feel like I could write sonnets about the story and the characters and yet I’m so emotional that it takes a good while for anything coherent to come out other than OMG � I LOVE IT � READ IT � SO GOOD � GAH � AWW � KEYBOARDSMASHkflrfdjk�. So please bear with me while I try to translate this emotional gibberish into a coherent list of everything I loved about Lost Talismans and a Tequila.
The buildup
We are now seven books into this series and just one book away from the ending and I just have to say that the plot buildup of this series (as well as Demonized, which intertwines with Spellbound) has been nothing but pure and utter genius. I love how every book so far has been its' own self-contained story with its� own plot, quest, villain and yet at the same time, this entire series has been building up to the finale of its' overall story arc and everything just flows so smoothly and is so exquisitely done! We are now almost at the end (*cries*) and the way all the pieces are coming together towards one major villain and towards the sure-to-be explosive finale is just mind blowing. This book especially has answered so many questions and has provided so many little epiphanies throughout the story, from character’s backstories and motivations to an entire overarching conspiracy and common villain. Whoa, okay? Just, whoa. (Look, I said I would try to be coherent, I didn’t say I’d be 100% successful).
Also, THAT scene crossing over with the Demonized characters? That has got to be both the most anticipated and most deliciously satisfying scene ever and made me even more eagerly anticipating the finale(s)!
The characters
I think I already mentioned this in every single one of my reviews, and yet it deserves to be mentioned again and again and again, because it’s pretty amazing how attached I have grown to these characters ever since I started reading this series. These characters and, most importantly, their friendship will grow on you so much that they will get under your skin and before you know it you’ll be like me and tearing up over a scene where they are joking about pizza toppings. You have been warned.
Also, I feel like this book delved into every character just a bit a deeper. We learn some more about Tori’s past and how it shaped her character and actions even today. We got some Ezra POV chapters which were so eye-opening, especially in combination with the closer look at his troubled past. And even though the gang is a bit splintered in this story, the connection between all of them feels even more present than ever. There’s a sort of revelation Tori has about Aaron that made me tear up. A Kai reunion scene also made me cry and you know what else? Even Makiko grew on me. Oh, and then there’s another character which I’d been hoping would become more invested in the story for a while and that happened and was everything I hoped for and more.
The romance
Can I just say that I am in awe at the way Annette Marie weaves romance into her stories? I’m very picky about romance in books � I like it angsty, but I need it to have lighter moments as well. I like it present and a driving force for the characters, but I don’t want it to overpower the story either. See? Picky.
But I adore the romance in this series (just as I do in any other Annette Marie story). It’s never been overpowering the story, but it’s always been present and is once again a driving force in this installment. And let me just say that it’s been especially satisfying in Lost Talismans, when certain feelings are finally admitted to each other!
The action
OH MY GOD, this was so intense! I mean, there’s a reason I finished the book in a day. It is simply impossible to put down. From start to end, this was just such an adventure and it was wild and unpredictable and fun and scary and angsty and I loved being along for the ride.
Overall, I have to admit this has been one of my favorite installments in the series. This series overall is just becoming more and more perfect to me and I adore every single minute spent reading it. Please don’t hesitate to read it. It has it all: nail-biting action, angsty yet hopeful romance, a ton of humor, jaw-dropping plot twists, brilliant conspiracies, twisted revelations and most of all, a lot of heart.
“What depth of resilience did it take to lose everyone you loved in a single day and keep going? What kind of resolve did it take to suppress the demon inside you, day after day after day, and keep going? How much tenacity did it take to face a life of loneliness and secrets that would end in death and madness, and keep going?�
Let’s see� I finished this book in a day while feeling the complete maelstrom of emotions, I immediately started again from the beginning and I thought about these characters for the whole week afterwards. Clearly, it’s been another Annette Marie masterpiece.
Every single time after finishing one of these books, my heart is so full that I feel like I could write sonnets about the story and the characters and yet I’m so emotional that it takes a good while for anything coherent to come out other than OMG � I LOVE IT � READ IT � SO GOOD � GAH � AWW � KEYBOARDSMASHkflrfdjk�. So please bear with me while I try to translate this emotional gibberish into a coherent list of everything I loved about Lost Talismans and a Tequila.
The buildup
We are now seven books into this series and just one book away from the ending and I just have to say that the plot buildup of this series (as well as Demonized, which intertwines with Spellbound) has been nothing but pure and utter genius. I love how every book so far has been its' own self-contained story with its� own plot, quest, villain and yet at the same time, this entire series has been building up to the finale of its' overall story arc and everything just flows so smoothly and is so exquisitely done! We are now almost at the end (*cries*) and the way all the pieces are coming together towards one major villain and towards the sure-to-be explosive finale is just mind blowing. This book especially has answered so many questions and has provided so many little epiphanies throughout the story, from character’s backstories and motivations to an entire overarching conspiracy and common villain. Whoa, okay? Just, whoa. (Look, I said I would try to be coherent, I didn’t say I’d be 100% successful).
Also, THAT scene crossing over with the Demonized characters? That has got to be both the most anticipated and most deliciously satisfying scene ever and made me even more eagerly anticipating the finale(s)!
The characters
I think I already mentioned this in every single one of my reviews, and yet it deserves to be mentioned again and again and again, because it’s pretty amazing how attached I have grown to these characters ever since I started reading this series. These characters and, most importantly, their friendship will grow on you so much that they will get under your skin and before you know it you’ll be like me and tearing up over a scene where they are joking about pizza toppings. You have been warned.
Also, I feel like this book delved into every character just a bit a deeper. We learn some more about Tori’s past and how it shaped her character and actions even today. We got some Ezra POV chapters which were so eye-opening, especially in combination with the closer look at his troubled past. And even though the gang is a bit splintered in this story, the connection between all of them feels even more present than ever. There’s a sort of revelation Tori has about Aaron that made me tear up. A Kai reunion scene also made me cry and you know what else? Even Makiko grew on me. Oh, and then there’s another character which I’d been hoping would become more invested in the story for a while and that happened and was everything I hoped for and more.
The romance
Can I just say that I am in awe at the way Annette Marie weaves romance into her stories? I’m very picky about romance in books � I like it angsty, but I need it to have lighter moments as well. I like it present and a driving force for the characters, but I don’t want it to overpower the story either. See? Picky.
But I adore the romance in this series (just as I do in any other Annette Marie story). It’s never been overpowering the story, but it’s always been present and is once again a driving force in this installment. And let me just say that it’s been especially satisfying in Lost Talismans, when certain feelings are finally admitted to each other!
The action
OH MY GOD, this was so intense! I mean, there’s a reason I finished the book in a day. It is simply impossible to put down. From start to end, this was just such an adventure and it was wild and unpredictable and fun and scary and angsty and I loved being along for the ride.
Overall, I have to admit this has been one of my favorite installments in the series. This series overall is just becoming more and more perfect to me and I adore every single minute spent reading it. Please don’t hesitate to read it. It has it all: nail-biting action, angsty yet hopeful romance, a ton of humor, jaw-dropping plot twists, brilliant conspiracies, twisted revelations and most of all, a lot of heart.
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