Shadow Spell (Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy, #2)

by Nora Roberts

[kimbacaffeinate]

Five Reasons to Grab a cup of Coffee and Curl-up with Shadow Spell:

1. If you liked tales of prophecy, witchcraft and fate. The Dark Witch gave her powers to her children, and told them “their blood, her blood” would one day defeat Cabhan the evil sorcerer who took her life. He killed their father and sent them into hiding and away from their beloved home in County Mayo, Ireland. The time is now. Three cousins of their blood have gathered along with their friends and formed a circle to defeat him and fulfill their destiny.

2. If the friends to lovers’ trope is a favorite, you are sure to enjoy the romance that develops between Conner and Meara Quinn. Conner is tall and strong with a twinkle in his eye. He walks comfortably in his shoes and speaks to his hawks. He is patient and loyal, and you cannot help but adored him. Meara tends horses, does horseback tours and cares for her elderly mother. She guards her heart after it was damaged, but she is loyal and loves her friends. From that first jolt of electricity that ran through them when fear opened the door to their feelings I felt their connection.

3. If small-town settings make you want to get cozy by the fire then Shadow Spell will delight you. I loved how Roberts brought the Ireland countryside to life. She gives us a sweeping view and I long for the fields, the forest and gardens. The O’Dwyer cousins have surrounded themselves with good friends, and I loved the plotting to destroy Cabhan and intimate “family” dinners. Their friendships are strong and enviable.

4. While there is predictability in both the plot and the romances, Roberts’ weaved in hair-raising spells, strong friendships and an overall story arc filled with danger and suspense. I could feel the fog rising, taste the power of their spells and smell their fears. We even dream travel and get to meet the three children of the Dark Witch. The tale of destroying Cabhan is front and center as Roberts’ creates twists and danger. She continues to flesh out her characters and the story while serving up a delightful side of romance. Providing just the right amount of heat to curl your toes.

5. It’s rural Ireland, and I loved the language to their way of life. I suddenly have a need to go Hawking, ride a horse, and eat Guinness stew and then perhaps partake in some dancing. I also have to teach my hubby those Irish terms of endearment Conner whispers in Meara’s ear..*swoon*!