In Hexen's Cross Taran was impressive in so many ways but she seemed to be lacking in the practice of the Hexen craft and it was clear that she would need to bolster that moving forward. I couldn't imagine just how exactly that would come about in Hexen's Binding and I was truly surprised how it did in the best way. Some say the pen is mightier than the sword and that has maybe never been as true as it is for Taran, especially when that pen is building a magical arsenal of knowledge into her own grimoire.

I also have to say I really appreciated the strong family dynamic elements in this one. A lot of this story is getting to know ones roots, whether it be on the magical side of things, family, or even feelings. In all of those scenarios one thing rings true, it isn't easy to dig in deep and it is not always pretty what you find along the way, but in the end real strength will be found and built upon piece by piece. The Grims and the Donovans are like any other family in a lot of ways, they have their fractures and their failings but they also have immense strength and in the end a willingness to put differences aside and stand together when it counts.

While I wouldn't go as far to say that Hexen's Binding was the calm before the storm, because there was enough struggle to keep you glued to the pages, I did feel like it was building to a grand crescendo coming about in the next book. This ending satisfies just enough but will have you on the edge of your seat desperately awaiting the next installment.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.

Mythology, magic and mystery...all my favorite M words in one novel.

If you read my reviews you know I'm a sucker for mythology, and Kowallis seamlessly weaves it into the world of the Hexens in an utterly unique way.

I also think it needs to be said that this story has some serious Indiana Jones vibes happening. The riddles to be solved, hunting for possibly fictitious relics from the past, magical BOOBY TRAPS, all being pioneered by the badass seeker of knowledge, professor/Hexen extrodinaire, Taran Grim.

Taran was pretty awesome. Although her Hexen legacy was not as accomplished as it could be, her knowledge on the mythological and mystical was second to none. Or at least, very few. I'm glad she still has some stuff to learn where her spells/powers are involved because I think if she had all that straight away she would be unstoppable at whatever she puts her mind to. I think I'll quite enjoy watching her develop and exact those powers as the story continues.

Now can we talk Collens Donovan for a hot minute? How is it even an accent on paper is HAWT?

I mean, he was kinda douchetastic at the beginning, but we all know sometimes those rough around the edges types are hiding all their many squishy loveable bits underneath. Coll was no exception. His magical prowess was a nice balance to Taran's wealth of knowledge. As Taran chipped away at his armor we got a much better idea of him as a person without the bluster and bravado...and of course, like Taran, it was hard not to like what I saw.

That ending was explosive, be prepared for twists and revelations you won't see coming! I was on the edge of my seat by the end and I CAN'T WAIT to see what happens next in this world of magic and mayhem! If you are a fan of mythology, adventure, magic, and swoon-worthy characters you need to add Hexen's Cross to your must-read list.

Btw still insanely jealous of Hexen's ability to magic their way around daily nuisances like doing your hair and avoiding traffic. Taran, share your secrets with me please!

*I received an ARC at no cost from the author*

*FLASH FREEBIES*

Duality (EnertiaTrials 3) by J. Kowallis releases on Friday, which is absolutely AMAZING (check out my gushing 5 star review on the blog)!

If you haven't started this series yet, the time COULD NOT BE BETTER! Afterimage & Encender (books 1&2) are now FREE on Amazon kindle!!  They are only free for a limited time so grab your copies NOW! If you like dystopian, great world building, strong characters and just general awesomeness, then this is the series for you!

You can also come celebrate the release of Duality tonight on Facebook with a whole lineup of fabulous authors, Lauren Bird Horowitz, E.J. Mellow, Elise Kova, Dela, Jennifer Kay Wilson, and Courtney Ruggles & enter to win some awesome bookish prizes including a $100 Amazon giftcard!

Links:

AFTERIMAGE:
https://www.amazon.com/Afterimage-Enertia-Trials-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00VVPZY0O/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1479398726&sr=8-2

ENCENDER:
https://www.amazon.com/Encender-Enertia-Trials-Book-2-ebook/dp/B01B5EIV7I/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1479398726&sr=8-3

FACEBOOK RELEASE PARTY:
https://m.facebook.com/events/338789266473502

Hey Bookworms! There's a rockin' Facebook party for the release of Duality by J. Kowallis happening this Thursday 11/17!! That means you can come chat about all things bookish and enter to win some sweet prizes from the lady of the hour herself, J. Kowallis, along with authors, Lauren Bird Horowitz, E.J. Mellow, Elise Kova, Dela, Jennifer Kay Wilson, and Courtney Ruggles!! And you get to do it all from the comfort of your home! Click the link below to find out more info and join in all the fun! 

https://www.facebook.com/events/338789266473502/?ti=cl