Moonstone (Book One of Unbidden Magic)

Reader reviewed by stephanie

Reader reviewed by the book muncher

Allie Emerson sometimes wishes she could change the life she has. She lives with her rather lazy mother in a dumpy trailer with their only income being the monthly welfare check. Shes constantly picked on by bullies, has never met her father, and is sure her aunt wants her gone. But there are some things to look forward to, namely weekend visits to her eccentric but lovable neighbor Kizzy and hanging out with her good friends Mercedes and Manny. But then strange things start happening to Allie, like making her uncles bull run backwards and receiving visits from her hippy spirit guide Trilby. And thats when she find out shes not just ordinary Allie anymore; shes the most important ingredient of an age-old prophecy dating back to the beginnings of an ancient battle revolving around a magical moonstone pendant, now in Allies possession. But before she can save the world, Allie needs to get a grip on her own life before she loses it to her enemies.

Moonstone is an exciting and very promising start to a new paranormal series. Allie is a great main character. Its very easy to understand her simultaneous love and hate for her life, her confusion when she discovers her destiny, and her fierce determination to make things right. I enjoyed reading this story from Allies perspective because her snarky yet frank voice made the plot seem even more humorous and suspenseful. There was a good mixture of psychic experiences, everyday life, heart-stopping danger, and even romance. The storyline is very original and creative, and I loved the twists in the plot. It was very difficult for me to set this book down, and I was disappointed when the story ended because I wanted to keep reading. There are a few small details that arent completely developed, but I fully expect them to be continued in sequels to come.

I am very excited about Brothers Unbidden Magic series and look forward to the continuation of Allies story in sequels to Moonstone, hopefully in the near future. Fans of The Named series and Old Magic by Marianne Curley will also enjoy this fantastic novel.

reposted from http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com

Reader reviewed by Julie M. Prince

Allie Emerson (short for the unfortunate name, Alfrieda Carlotta Emerson), is not a lucky person. When she falls off a ladder, grazes an electric fence, and lands in a cow pie, it certainly seems that her already bad luck is getting even worse.

So what happens when this unlucky person finds out that she holds a key to magical powers and is destined to fulfill an age old prophecy? Chaos happens.

Allie character shapes this book into a greatly entertaining story. I've mentioned before that one of my criteria for giving out five stars is my ability or inability to put a book down. This is a non-put-downer. It's a fun story with a strong voice and a memorable setting.

A well-written tale of intrigue and a great set up for the sequel, with characters I want to know better, and a plot that has miles to go. This Unbidden Magic series is one I look forward to reading more of in the (hopefully not too distant) future.

This author and publisher bear watching.
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