With a serial killer on the loose, the baffling mystery of Aiden’s past, and their tenuous budding romance, Aiden and Fouchard tread through a world of magic and myth on padded shoes, terrified to stir up something neither can control or defeat.Aiden Mercer’s life now centers around lounging on the sunny beaches of his adopted country with a beer in one hand and a coffee in the other while … coffee in the other while admiring the local male population. After a rough life as a respected detective in DC, playing it cool shouldn’t be too hard, right? With the magical community on his case and dead bodies piling up around town, the responsibility of finding their killer seems fated to fall on him and deny him of his easy living.
Then there is Naël.
Cantankerous merman Naël Fouchard’s life is focused on bringing up and protecting his little sister. When DNA found at the scene of the murders mark him as the prime suspect, Naël seeks out the help of Aiden, whose reputation as a detective grossly belies his lazy lifestyle and apparent lack of ambition.
The chemistry between the strong, stoic Naël and the easygoing Aiden is undeniable, no matter how many walls Aiden builds.
If this unlikely pair can’t come to terms with their feelings for each other long enough to catch the killer, their emotional turmoil might yet allow the murderer to kill them instead.
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Aiden Mercer is an American who has left the DC area to form a new life in Portugal. He wants an easy-going lifestyle, so he opened a coffee shop and spends as much time as he can by or on the beach watching the male population. Aiden’s not as regular as he wants to seem. Since he was a child, he can see members of the magical community.
He doesn’t see many magical beings where he lives and in his coffee shop on a normal day. But one day, after a morning run and a stop at the local bar, he gets a visit from a witch named Taz. Taz tells him about deaths in the magical community. She wants his help to try and solve them. The only clue that they have is that there is merfolk DNA at all the crime scenes. As a former private investigator, Aiden is curious.
Naël Fouchard is a merman that lives in Cascais raising his younger sister. With the suspect having merfolk DNA, Naël seeks out Aiden’s help as well. Although Naël was quite rude to Aiden in previous encounters, he needs Aiden’s help. The two men realize that they have ridiculous chemistry. Their relationship blossoms as they work to uncover the real identity of the serial murderer. Can they solve the murder before it’s too late?
Of Magic and Scales is an amazing story with magical beings. The characters are brought to life by author Natalina Reis. I found myself carried on by the story and cheering Aiden and Naël along in their quest to prove Naël’s innocence.
Mermen and murder!!
I love discovering new authors, when offered, I jumped to read this book, I mean merfolk, magical creatures, hot men and murder, what’s not to like.
This is a very well built World that sucks the reader in, has enough pop culture references to make it seen realistic, with a steady pace that keeps the story flowing. This is a read that I thoroughly enjoyed, can’t wait to read the next one so I won’t.
4 Stars!
What I Loved: The murder mystery. It was really well-done and had me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. Natalina Reis is no doubt a talented writer and her prose was very elegant.
What I Liked: The premise and the world-building, even if there were some plot points I wished had been better explained or expanded on.
I liked Aiden, despite him constantly putting himself down and a bit immature regarding his issues with magical beings. He was relatable and I was invested in his story. I also liked Christina, she was so much fun, and her banter with Aiden was a highpoint for me.
What I Didn’t Like: Unfortunately, I wanted to clobber Naël repeatedly throughout the book with my Kindle and couldn’t get past my first impression of him. I just couldn’t figure how Aiden found him attractive; yes, he had the looks, but there’s more to life than that.
Overall, even if the romance portion of the book fell a bit flat for me—mostly because of Naël, I like arrogant men, but he was conceited and rude—the mystery portion was more than enough to keep my interest, so I have no trouble recommending it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn’t a requirement. ***
Aiden and Nael come together when Nael needs help proving that he isn’t the killer. With appearances not what they seem and a killer on the loose, these two must work together to clear Nael’s name and find out who did it. All the characters will have you intrigued and everything is well written to keep you turning the page to find out what happens next.
I have to admit, I really didn’t like the MCs at first. Nael was an arrogant jerk, and Aiden was just a doormat whose mind seemed primarily focused on sex. He didn’t seem able to control his lust around Nael. Nael is mean and rude to Aiden who can’t think past his need in order to stand up for himself. I understand Aiden has issues with feeling alone, abandoned, and rejected, but seriously? It wasn’t until about 75% through the book, that softer, more romantic feelings began to be expressed and they became more of a team. That said, the second book (I received an ARC) is wonderful, and you really want the background from ‘Of Magic and Scales’ when you read ‘Of Scales and Fire’ (book 2). So, if you find yourself frustrated or irritated by the MCs, but you like the changes in the last quarter of the book, read on to the next book. It is more like the latter portion of this book, and I think it’s much better. I can’t wait for the third book!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Of magic and scales
Adien and Cristina have a great chemistry working together. They made me laugh within the frist chapter of this book. Adien is able to see magical CREATURES. These creatures are now been murder by someone who is it. Adien in now working with Foruchard to find out who. This book has me gripped the writer really knows how to pull a reader in I read this book within a few hours and would read it again in a heartbeat.
Of Magic and Scales
By Natalina Reis
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the story Of Magic and Scales by Natalina Reis. It is a book that I found myself not able to put down until I had finished the last page. It is a story that includes magic, magical creatures, mystery, danger, and romance. I loved reading about the characters of Aiden Mercer and Nael Fouchard. Aiden wants to live his life with no complications. Instead, he finds himself in the search for a killer. The search not only takes him away from the relaxed lifestyle he wants, but it also has him meeting Nael. Someone that he finds extremely attractive. Nael is a merman whose life is about protecting his little sister. He has found himself the prime suspect in the murders that are occurring. He has sought the help of Aiden to help him prove his innocence. The chemistry is strong and undeniable between Nael and Aiden. Even with the verbal back and forth between them they can’t help but feel the pull towards each other. What does the future hold for them? Will the killer be caught? Will Aiden and Nael deny their feelings or will they take a chance with each other? Read this book to find out. I grew to love the characters of Nael and Aiden with each chapter that I read. I couldn’t help but want them to be happy. I enjoyed reading the push and pull that plays out between them. Several other characters interact with Aiden and Nael that are wonderful to read about. This is a story that does have some steamy and romantic moments. The book is written in such a way that I felt like I was right there with the characters. This is a story that is entertaining and grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I would highly recommend reading it.
I loved this book. This is a M/M romance-suspense story that I couldn’t put down until the last page. I was pulled in right from the beginning. This is not my first book by this author but it is my favorite. It is a well written developed story that has characters that bring the story to life. There are twists and turns that kept me turning the pages just waiting to see what would happen next. Aiden and Neal’s chemistry was awesome. Will they figure out their relationship before they become victims of murder? Bodies are piling up, you don’t want to miss this book. I highly recommend this must read book.
Deliciously scrumptious! A sexy new series full of magic, mayhem and merman! I thoroughly loved this new world and characters. I enjoyed the suspense and the romance woven in I can’t wait to dive deeper into the characters and uncover more about this new world.
I can’t blame Aiden for wanting to enjoy his retirement in the warm weather and just enjoy the sun and men. Unfortunately, when have the reputation as a great detective those in trouble seek you out. Aiden can’t complain too much when Nael comes to him for help and their attraction is immediate. Where Aiden is all laid back, Nael is super serious because he is responsible for protecting his sister. Their opposite personalities lead to very interesting sparks. Oh, did I mention Nael is a merman and there is magic involved in everything? This is a great start to an incredible series and I can’t wait to see what happens to Aiden, Nael and their family and friends in future voumes. Their trouble can’t be over, but they will be there for each other you just know.
What I Think: As evidenced from above, I have no business summarising anything which would explain why my English Teacher in secondary school always laughed at my summaries. It is supposed to be short, non? This is my first review with Hot Tree Publishing. Thank you so much for the opportunity for ’tis an honour. It is also my first time reading this Authoress and her intro dedicated to her country simply delighted me! Its the little things, you know. Easy to please. Me. Okay, let’s do this! The opening flooded me with curiosity and suddenly this tale wasn’t being speed read to meet a deadline. It was being speed read as I once more solidified plans towards becoming more self sufficient so I can have all the time to read such lovelies as this. And we know I don’t get curious unless with tales so I badly had to know. Aaand, I haven’t seen a lot of tales with water folk (I might be slightly obsessed with them. Just a tad). I don’t even like arrogance but Nael wears it so well that even I can’t decide if Aiden should hit him or kiss him. I’m sorry for being so unhelpful, Aiden. But not that sorry because Aiden’s ability is causing some sexual confusion in my head. All the talk of tails swishing mesmerisingly has me mesmerized and yet, oh goddess, surely fish aren’t sexy, are they or is that speciest of me? Aiden is sweet and would like the world to think he’s plain dumb but nothing could be farther from the truth. Not only does he not know what sort of magical he is, he has abilities that pop up just when he needs them. And he keeps bumping into Nael all over the place. A Nael that seems to have a darkness I don’t know about as he becomes suspect of crimes greater than causing dubious sexual attraction. Aiden’s powers just keep surprising us both as they come unannounced which I find unfair. Shouldn’t they be polite enough to come with a shriek, instead of leaving us both bewildered again and again? Now, I’m pursuing what he could be as all sorts of possibilities flash through my mind. I’m so suspicious that I’m even eyeing Christina, his trusty side kick. With every fish tail that appears though, my mind keeps wandering off to one issue in particular. Do they stand balanced on it behind their glamor or even walk about with them? Do they float, glide, use them like feet or is the glamour a true shape they take on? Questions and questions spill into my mind as Aiden digs himself deeper into things that should be better left alone. Between his curiosity and capacity to enrage the frightening creatures around him, I wonder who will get him first. Nael, can you please get your smoking hot, arrogant, self functional so we can protect Aiden? Portugal just got moved up my bucket list for it seems to be a place made for those of us not yet too afraid to wonder. The next time any magical teases Aiden about not being human, I will chew beignets and spit out nails! How much teasing can a person take? And by person, I mean me. This Authoress is so chuckling to herself as I race to the end of this tale in the hope of laying bare all secrets. Have I mentioned I don’t like secrets, intentional or not? I feel as if Joe would have deduced the answer by now with his hyperactive and all – too – well – seeing hungry eyes. I’m running out of ideas here and reluctant to go to the g-word, but with all these abilities turning up, what else could Aiden be? (oh, don’t know Joe? You’ll find out! Imagine a very proper, smuggy chuckle at this point). I couldn’t believe these places actually exist, with names as magnificent as the structures described, which led to a side online investigative trip to admire the stunning architecture! Aiden sounds so toppy which doesn’t fit with his beach bum facade but adds to the complexity of his lovely self which leaves me looking forward to the erotica about to blast off between him and his Merman, sorry, Merrow. His arrogant yet oh so tender, giant Merrow. I was about falling in crush with Christina when Taz shows up, complete with red curls filling up her broad brimmed hat, and the rest as they say is history. It’s lovely to see how Aiden comes undone under love and seeing all his sides. Jealous Aiden is hella sexy and flustered Nael is simply the cutest thing ever but then the descent to my favorite moment begins when Aiden starts lying to himself. Oh dear, something really epic this way comes! I’m about to kill Nael, then smack some sense into Aiden. This game Nael is running makes me suspicious of him and I’m worried he’s just using Aiden who’s, um, appendage isn’t letting enough blood remain where he needs it up top. The Ru-veal Yourself scene had me breathless and reading through my fingers. One of those intimacies that isn’t much but has me feeling like a voyeur because it was every inch as sweet and otherworldly as I expected it to be. The investigation gets underway and I’m holding my breath, uncertain if I’m worried about Aiden or the way his body keeps spitting out abilities that were never exhibited even as I’m cheering wildly as he makes Nael say things plainly. We are not fond of this verbal game at all. Now, I’m worrying about Aiden and his memory lapses even as I fall head over heels in love with Aiden for knowing a fact that most bibliophiles known- a good book is equal to amazing sex and vice versa. Ever wondered why nerds are so sexy? Now you do. You’re welcome. I fell head over heels for Nael as more of that soft, sweet and tender center shows just as he explains why the fear of falling in love is what makes it worth it. The peace did not last long, of course (have you met Aiden?), and I began pacing as innocents get entangled in things we don’t fully understand yet and hoping that Aiden trusts himself enough to let go and protect his found family, even as I ached to be there with a proper sniper’s rifle by his side. My head has apparently gone with the fairies in the magic oozing from this tale. My sigh of relief at the end did not soothe the fact that the biggest question was left unanswered. Thank the goddess the 2nd part is already in my grabby paws!
Verdict? A beautiful, meandering walk through beauty and stone, myth and reality that is the perfect frame for a love so simple, yet so encompassing!
This is great! There is humor, romance, sexy times with ‘favorite appendages’, danger, magic and searching for lost memories and love. Set in Lisbon, you’ll get a taste for the city and the country of Portugal. You’ll laugh at the antics between a young girl and her overly protective older brother. There will be verbal sparing between a witch and a cafe owner who is still trying to figure out who, and what, he is. As well as the closeness between friends. The action is non-stop. It is a series that will have to be enjoyed completely!
Aiden is a private investigator or was at one time. He decides he’s going to investigate magical creatures dying by a merman DNA, but he gets sidetracked to easily by Naël. Naël is a merman who DNA has been left at the murder scenes. This story confused me to no end. I absolutely love paranormal stories but this one had so many inconsistencies for me personally. I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
If you love the world of magic, mystery and great characters you will love Of Magic and Scale by Natalina Reis. The story follows Aiden a laid back person who is looking to relax and chill in life until he meets the stoic character of Nael.
Nael is a protector for his little sister but when he gets put as prime suspect in the murders which have been discovered he enlists the help of a unlikely character in Aiden, but Nael has a secret and will this affect their relationship if found out. Will they discover who is committing these hideous crimes you will have to read the book. The with the interaction of the secondary characters this makes for a really entertaining book.
The chemistry between these two characters is great from the first time they meet and the story is a great read. You will turning the pages frantically to get to the next chapter and the writing brings the characters to life. I really enjoyed this book and this is not the first book I have read by Natalina and will not be the last.
Of Magic and Scales is a novel by Natalina Reis. This is my third novel by this author.
The premise caught my attention and I was not disappointed.
Aiden has started a new life in Portugal after moving from DC, where he hopes to start over and not seeing anything magical but things don’t go as planned when he meets a merman named Naël Fouchard.
With a serial killer on the loose the two work together in order to save Naël’s sister.
Their first meeting is hilarious and laughed on the bus while reading that scene. Honestly, I read it a few times.
I love the two main characters, especially Aiden who is laid back and relaxed about life, while Naël is stoic.
It’s been a crazy few weeks, and it was amazing to read something that sucked me into the world from beginning to finish. I really hope that we get more of this world and these characters. I am not ready to say good-bye to them.
Of Magic and Scales is a spicy take on the thriller genre! The author had me captured from the first chapter and I finished this book in a couple hours simply because I just couldn’t put it down! I love the chemistries and relationships in this book very much and I definitely reccomend giving this book a read! I personally haven’t read or seen a M/M story before, but was pleasantly surprised. It’s not something you see every day that deserve to be more common and this book is the perfect edition!
Of Magic and Scales
By Natalina Reis
4 stars
I really like this author so I picked this book to read without reading the blurb, now I am not a fan of m/m books so I wasn’t sure I was going to like the story but I actually really did. I skipped over some of the parts but it didn’t make any difference to my enjoyment of the book. The authors writing as usual is magical and mysterious, she uses wonderful and vivid detail that helps you to imagine what you are reading. There was a good amount of romance and some suspense which really added to the story. I thought the pace and flow as good and the characters were really well developed.
A really good read and one that I would highly recommend!
This is a juicy fantasy thriller if I’ve ever read one and I’ve been excited to read it. I found this book to be entertaining, witty and a page-turner.
With a serial killer on the run, a perplexed enigma about Aiden’s former life, Aiden and Fouchard must walk on eggshells through two different worlds between magic and myth where they’re not in power or seeking victory.
Aiden Mercer has a beautiful life on the beach where he relaxes for a living especially after a life as a former respected detective. In the magical community, everybody is turning to him to solve the case of the serial killer on the loose to which he’d have to put his relaxation on hold again.
Naël is an argumentative merman raising and keeping his sister safe from harm. As a suspect of these murders, he seeks out Aiden’s help to prove his innocence. Naël knows Aiden will be unstoppable and hardworking to prove his innocence.
Naël and Aiden’s chemistry is secure and impassive but Naël is persistent while Aiden builds walls to keep him out. Their banter makes them vulnerable for a killer out to get them both.
5 Stars
Do you love a really well written story with a serial killer, murder, danger, mystery, the paranormal- as well as a sexy MM romance? Well that’s what you will find between the covers of this sublime story. Natalina Reis delivers yet another wonderful book- and having read all her works to date, I can honestly say that this is one of my favourites of hers, so far.
Aiden and Nael are such great characters- their chemistry is intense, adding an extra element of spice t the story. With Aiden’s past and the fact that Nael is a merman grabbed my attention right from the get-go. Then throw in the serial killer aspect, with an intriguing storyline, some suspense, danger, and dramatic developments- and I was hooked! I read this story in one sitting as I couldn’t put it down till I’d read every last word.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Reis!
Thank you, Natalina Reis!
I have yet to find a novel by Natalina Reis that I didn’t absolutely love and want to devour in one sitting, and Of Magic & Scales is no exception to the rule. I seriously love the way that Natalina can weave a tale full of magic and fable and make you feel as if you know these characters personally and are very much real. She makes me believe in the magic and I love the feelings I experience as I read her work! This is a MM romance so if that isn’t your thing don’t read but I bet it would make you a believer in the genre!
Of Magic & Scales is full of magic and adventure, laced with suspense and romance to break up the darkness of it all. I never can get enough of the characters that Reis creates but Aiden and Nael have a special spot in my heart for them and I am so hooked on their story. I love how the mystery is set up and can only hope that this means we will not only get more of this fabulous storyline but more of these characters that have sucked me in completely! I know I will be first in line to get my hands on the next one!