4.5
Book source ~ Purchased at Audible

Alyssa’s grandmother is a wisewoman to Lord Dillon, and before him, his father. But as she has aged Alyssa takes over for her with no one the wiser since they are covered from head to toe in umbral robes. But one day, the jig, as they say, is up and she has some ‘splaining to do. And fast.

Ok, so I listened to this back in July of 2023. It was right after my mom died and I was so busy helping my brothers with her estate and the traveling back and forth from NC to OH took its toll. It’s now eight months later and I can’t really remember all the details. However, I do remember I was entranced and listening to the book made the drive fly by. I remember excitement, tension, danger, romance, steaminess, excellent dialogue, and ass kicking. Everything I expect from a Dianne Duvall book. And as a first listener of Kirsten Potter, I have to say bravo! All-in-all a great way to pass the time. Highly recommend. ( )

5 Stars!

I loved this book - It was completely heart warming and left me in a happy place. The characters were sweet and true. This was my first read from this author but not my last :-)

The audio version is a wonderful listen, but the story stands by itself in any medium.
( )

This is a kind of prequel to Duvall's Immortal Guardians series. The heroine is from a family of psychically Gifted Ones in the 11th century. The premise, that a 16-year-old girl can successfully disguise herself as her ancient grandmother for seven years, is barely plausible, but this IS fantasy. As a stand-alone novel, it's pleasant and there's a satisfying HEA. There are cameo appearances by several of the Immortal Guardians we know and love. BTW--not a vampire to be seen! ( )

Listened for Fun (Audiobook Purchase Tantor)
Overall Rating: 4.50
Story Rating: 4.50
Character Rating: 4.50

Audio Rating: 5.00 (nor part of the overall rating)

First Thought when Finished: Oh I love that we are getting the "prequel" series--A Sorceress of His Own by Dianne Duvall was exactly the excellent storytelling I have come to expect when reading anything in the Immortal Guardians world. PLUS SETH!

Overall Thoughts: I like this look back in time to Gifted Ones and their origins. I like the idea that Seth has been "protecting" for a long time. Take all the connections to the Immortal Guardians away though and you still have a rock solid romance with it's own very unique world. The fact that this couple is in a time where superstitions were rampant and they not only fall in love but prevail was just entertaining to listen too. I loved Alyssa--her sacrifice, courage, and ability to do what was right in spite of what she wanted made me love her more. Though it really was swoon-worthy Dillon that made me fall in love from the beginning. It is no secret that I like it when the men figure it out first and this is a prime example of why. This was just a timeless romance that would have worked in any age but shined brilliantly in that one.

Audio Thoughts:
Narrated By Kirsten Potter/ Length: 11 hrs and 25 mins

Kirsten knocked the narration for this story out of the park. I am a pretty big fan of her voice but I think this is the best narration that I have heard her do. It was tricky accents but she pulled them off well. Well done Kirsten! Well Done!

Part of my Read It, Rate It, File It, Done! Reviews ( )

Paranormal Historical = Winner

This first book in the Gifted Ones series predates the authors previous Immortal Guardians series and centers around a gifted one known to most as Wise One and the Feared Earl of Wescott. This book is full of constant action and has great characters and chemistry. It has a historical feel to it with a paranormal twist that makes for a great read! ( )