This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Lost Talismans and a Tequila

The dynamics between Tori and the boys never fail to energize the writing. Despite all the challenges they’ve had to face and the current obstacles in their way, the team makes sure to do everything in their power to help one another. They aren’t perfect, and there are quite the emotional upheavals in Lost Talismans and a Tequila, but Annette Marie never loses sight of how much the characters mean to one another.

That being said, readers are allowed to peek into Ezra’s mind this time around. It was a pleasant surprise to hear the change in the audiobook narrator and realize it was Ezra’s point of view. Choosing this book as his moment to reveal his inner thoughts was perfect timing. So much of the narrative has been from Tori’s perspective, but Lost Talisman and a Tequila is focused on Ezra’s past tragedy and current situation. Being able to witness firsthand the emotions and inner turmoil Ezra faces was captivating.

Readers will by now be used to Tori rushing into danger without a single thought. But in Lost Talismans and a Tequila, Tori will have to face some of the bitter truths about her actions. While she may have good intentions, sometimes she does more harm than good.

Lost Talismans and a Tequila is another fast-paced ride in The Guild Codex world. While it has a light and boisterous feel, there are harder hitting themes lying in the wake for readers. Fans of urban fantasy and tightly woven friendships will enjoy this novel. ( )

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. ( )

I really like Annette Marie's writing style. I can read her books in a day. I get so involved in the story line and the characters. I love how she's writing different series that are all connected showing the differing points of view. Very excited for the next 2 books. Started another of her series today. ( )

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! ( )

Series Info/Source: This is the 7th book in the Guild Codex: Spellbound series. I borrowed this book for my Kindle through Kindle Unlimited.

Story (4/5): Tori and Aaron come up with a plan to visit the rural compound where Ezra was turned into a demon mage. Ezra’s time is running out and Tori needs to figure out how to use the amulet to save Ezra and his demon or else Ezra will die. However, things aren’t as simple as they seem and Tori and crew start to unravel a huge web of dark magic. This book intertwines closely with the Guild Codex: Demonized series; that series goes through a lot of what Ezra is doing during this time when he isn’t with Tori. I would definitely recommend reading the Guild Codex series in the order suggested by the author.

I enjoyed this story, a lot is uncovered about Ezra’s past and about demon mages in general. Many events that happened earlier in the series are explained. I didn’t enjoy this story quite as much as some of the previous ones just because a lot of the fun banter between Tori and her mage trio was missing.

Characters (5/5): The characters go through a lot in this book. They are all well done, but honestly they haven’t grabbed my heart as thoroughly as Robin and Zylas from the Guild Codex: Demonized series. We learn a lot of background on Ezra even though he isn’t in the story a ton. We also meet some new mages that are part of the Salomon’s Key guild. Marie does an amazing job with characterization and that continues in this book.

Setting (4/5): It was nice to get out of the city and explore some rural areas in the US in this book. However the setting really isn’t a big driver in these stories.

Writing Style (5/5): This book is fast-paced, well written and I enjoy every minute of it. Marie does an amazing job with action scenes, characterization, pacing, and humor. I am a huge fan and will continue to read her novels as they are released.

My Summary (4.5/5): Overall this was a well done continuation of the Guild Codex: Spellbound series. I do feel like this series is getting a bit tired, but it’s almost wrapped up. I think part of the issue is that I like the Guild Codex: Demonized series soooo much better than this one now. Anyway, if you enjoy fast-paced, action-packed urban fantasy with a lot of magic, some humor, and some romance this is the urban fantasy series for you! ( )