More like 2.5. Wont read the sequel ( )

I'm apologising straight way because I disliked this book to the point where it was really hard for me to finish reading it. Maybe because I can't stand Twilight, and this had Bella and Edward written all over it. That is if you replace vampires with witches.

This was so sweet and idyllic, my teeth hurt. Vance is this God-like leather clad gorgeous teenage warlock who watched Portia since she was 14 because she is his soul mate. Now Portia is 16 and her gran tells her a family secret - she is a witch and by the way would she like to join the local coven?

At the same time Vance who is in the same coven comes on to Portia. They start this intense sudden relationship when he explains that they are soul mates, and he loves her, and of course they make sweet magic together (sorry for the pan!)... I always disliked the idea of soul mates. I like when the fire builds slowly, people get used to each other, work on their relationship...

My second issue is magic use. The descriptions is textbook Wicca 101, no deviations, and Portia is this super witch who doesn't have to work for her magic at all. Nothing has a cost, levitating crockery, painted walls or magically clean room, - no problem, it just happens because she wants it not because she learned and worked hard for it. To my opinion you give and you take - you can't just take all the time, there should be consequences. Also because the magic use is so traditional, it just feels a bit blah, there is no spark in it.

At last, the obsessive relationship was never my thing. These two share each other dreams and thoughts, Vance watches over Portia and sleeps in her room, even binds her to him so they feel pain when they are away from each other. They are so into each other there is no personality left. Eh, no thank you.

I feel like I'm not making much sense, but although the language in the book is beautiful, for me it was a beautiful nightmare. ( )

This series is a truly addicting one. I got the first book for free long ago, and then I subsequently bought every other book that followed because I couldn't get enough. Lacey's ability to weave a story and to create characters that are not only memorable, but enjoyable as well, is a true testament to her skill as an author. The storyline never stopped moving, and the action didn't stop, even up until the final page. Looking for critiques on the book, I can't even really find any, to be truthfully honest. I enjoyed the book from cover to cover, and this is the third time I have read it through! For anyone who is a fan of magical novels, and of characters who you never want to let go, then this is the book for you. I especially liked the way she addressed the darker aspect of magic--very interesting, and ingenious! ( )

Free ebook on Amazon.

I love the idea and most of the storyline but I am having trouble with a few areas of the book. First Portia takes all these life-breaking news with almost a shrug of her shoulders. This is the girl that swoons day and night over Vance, shouldn't she be a bit more upset on becoming a witch! Overall I like the book and am currently in the middle of the next installment but I would like a bit more dramatic AHHH's and a bit less dramatic awww's in the story if you know what I mean. 3.5 to 4 out of 5 stars, would recommend with caution. ( )