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Elvenrude #1
Cross Keys
Conspiracy, murder, and magic...and the death of all they hold dear.
When the first wanderer--a common elf who isn't authorized to use the portal--is spotted on the streets of New Orleans, the king assigns Kameo Ryndel to assist in the elf's capture. But before she can intervene, humans with guns shoot the wanderer and steal his body. When Seth Lormarc, an Elite elf from a rival guild, appears at the scene, Kam suspects he is involved.
Seth Lormarc is in New Orleans to find out who was behind the portal breach, and his best lead is the intriguing Kam Ryndel. When he stakes out her apartment and finds her sneaking out in the middle of the night, dressed in black and leaping to the top of the nearest building, he knows there's something unique about the beautiful elf. That kind of feat requires magic. Ancient magic.
As their paths cross during their investigations, they develop an irresistible attraction, although there's little time for romance. The portal breach is tied to an illegal smuggling operation that has come to the attention of the human CIA. But the stakes are raised when Kam and Seth discover a band of conspirators and a rebellion deep in Elvenrude that promises nothing except destruction of their world.
When the first wanderer--a common elf who isn't authorized to use the portal--is spotted on the streets of New Orleans, the king assigns Kameo Ryndel to assist in the elf's capture. But before she can intervene, humans with guns shoot the wanderer and steal his body. When Seth Lormarc, an Elite elf from a rival guild, appears at the scene, Kam suspects he is involved.
Seth Lormarc is in New Orleans to find out who was behind the portal breach, and his best lead is the intriguing Kam Ryndel. When he stakes out her apartment and finds her sneaking out in the middle of the night, dressed in black and leaping to the top of the nearest building, he knows there's something unique about the beautiful elf. That kind of feat requires magic. Ancient magic.
As their paths cross during their investigations, they develop an irresistible attraction, although there's little time for romance. The portal breach is tied to an illegal smuggling operation that has come to the attention of the human CIA. But the stakes are raised when Kam and Seth discover a band of conspirators and a rebellion deep in Elvenrude that promises nothing except destruction of their world.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2014
10 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Ally Shields
19 books472 followersAlly Shields is the fantasy pen name of Janet L Buck, who also writes historical mysteries as J L Buck.
Ms Shields' Guardian Witch series was first released between 2012 and 2015. Revised and updated editions are being released in 2023 with new covers and one title change.
Due to an ongoing story line, the author recommends this series be read in order, beginning with Awakening the Fire.
A sequel trilogy may be re-released in 2024.
The Maggie York Paranormal Mystery trilogy, set in New Orleans, is expected to be re-released in 2024 with revised editions.
When not writing, Ms Shields reads multiple genres--urban fantasy, thrillers, mysteries, historical romance, and she loves to travel--anywhere, anytime.
Ms Shields' Guardian Witch series was first released between 2012 and 2015. Revised and updated editions are being released in 2023 with new covers and one title change.
Due to an ongoing story line, the author recommends this series be read in order, beginning with Awakening the Fire.
A sequel trilogy may be re-released in 2024.
The Maggie York Paranormal Mystery trilogy, set in New Orleans, is expected to be re-released in 2024 with revised editions.
When not writing, Ms Shields reads multiple genres--urban fantasy, thrillers, mysteries, historical romance, and she loves to travel--anywhere, anytime.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 27, 2015
You can find a longer review on my blog: Raquel Gabrielle's Blog
I really enjoyed this book, I haven't read many books dealing with elves, and I am glad that I found something with elves in it to read, ever since finishing The Hollows Series by Kim harrison I have wanted another series with elves in it.
I really enjoyed this book, I haven't read many books dealing with elves, and I am glad that I found something with elves in it to read, ever since finishing The Hollows Series by Kim harrison I have wanted another series with elves in it.
October 22, 2014
Good book
amazing read. Very easy to follow the line of the story. I guess, mane reason why I liked this book is that it is mostly a mystery with a good romance line (like a Romeo and Juliet story) and no cliff hangers at the end.
amazing read. Very easy to follow the line of the story. I guess, mane reason why I liked this book is that it is mostly a mystery with a good romance line (like a Romeo and Juliet story) and no cliff hangers at the end.
April 15, 2018
Kind of disappointing because I was excited to read something about elves for once and what do I read? The elves are pretty much normal people without technology. There is nothing much otherworldly about them besides a little bit of magic that doesn't even come from them but from amulets and such. The romance in the book is pretty lame, there are no real feelings thrown around and Kam went super quickly from Caleb to Seth and then when she separated from Seth she pretty much ran right into his arms when Seth started to show some affection to her. I definitely liked Seth more than Kam.
The story took forever and I got pretty bored. They didn't really have any investigation skills and their findings just came to them without them really working for it. I really do want to know what happens next with Seth and Kam, but I don't know if I can survive two more books of this boring writing. I wish it was more fast paced and more passionate.
There were also other issues that bothered me a little - like the fact that elves aren't supposed to be okay with killing but all Kam, Seth and Rhyden killed and there were no real issues with it and I thought they'd at least feel bad or something. But nothing.
The story took forever and I got pretty bored. They didn't really have any investigation skills and their findings just came to them without them really working for it. I really do want to know what happens next with Seth and Kam, but I don't know if I can survive two more books of this boring writing. I wish it was more fast paced and more passionate.
There were also other issues that bothered me a little - like the fact that elves aren't supposed to be okay with killing but all Kam, Seth and Rhyden killed and there were no real issues with it and I thought they'd at least feel bad or something. But nothing.
October 28, 2015
I haven’t read the first book but felt that this one did a great job in allowing me to understand everything without the knowledge from the first book.
Kam is a strong stubborn woman who for some reason allows a old feud with two families to affect her more than I expected. At least she did for a while. she was quite independent and I was surprised she was with Caleb because to me you could see her love for him was that of brother sister and not lovers. I think this relationship was about comfort and feeling safe for her. Her strong sense of self and her strength was great to see in a female character. As she got drawn into her family business and problems she began to question more things around her and her future. She also found a mystery. A very dark mystery that could harm her elven people and her family.
At the same time we have Seth. Seth seems arrogant and self important but he really is a honest, sweet, fair person who was very self assured. For Kam she needed to think he was arrogant because it helped her from admitting her feelings. That she had feelings for Seth. Seth who was from the enemy guild. The family that has been feuding with hers for years. She took that personally whereas Seth was more open minded. He felt that they could get over this family feud and overcome it. This is a elephant in the room for both of them.
Seth was more easygoing and open minded than Kam but together they are a formidable force. With Rhyden the sweet fun cousin of Seth these three work together to save elvenrude. As the danger and mystery gets more ominous, Kam and Seth get closer and get a better understanding of each other. They also see that they are there for each other no matter what. That was seen when Seth sacrificed so Kam wouldn’t be alone in New Orleans.
the story was fast paced and wonderful. the writing keeps you enthralled as the characters kept you wanting more. Each character draws you in and gives you some kind of feeling towards them. For example, Rhyden always put a smile on my face, Seth made me root for him and see if Kam could see what he did, Kam made me feel proud to see such a strong self confident woman, Harad Seth’s grandfather to me was sweet but made me wary, Seth’s uncle freaked me out and had me on edge. Esty was to cute for words. the romance aspect wasn’t overwhelming and didn’t take over the story but blended in as a natural progression. The warring of emotions by Kam felt natural as well.
The ending wasn’t one I expected but sort of felt was going to happen. well not happen as in the circumstances and why but had a nagging feeling that who it was that was responsible was that person although I was never sure and I wanted to get to the end to know. You had to know like playing a game in clue or reading a Agatha Christie mystery you get so involved and trying to solve the mystery that when you think you know the answer you can’t wait to see if you are right.
this was a well written fast paced story that has all the elements of love, romance, family and loyalty to them and friendship, danger and self discovery. A wonderful story that keeps you intrigued to the end.
Kam is a strong stubborn woman who for some reason allows a old feud with two families to affect her more than I expected. At least she did for a while. she was quite independent and I was surprised she was with Caleb because to me you could see her love for him was that of brother sister and not lovers. I think this relationship was about comfort and feeling safe for her. Her strong sense of self and her strength was great to see in a female character. As she got drawn into her family business and problems she began to question more things around her and her future. She also found a mystery. A very dark mystery that could harm her elven people and her family.
At the same time we have Seth. Seth seems arrogant and self important but he really is a honest, sweet, fair person who was very self assured. For Kam she needed to think he was arrogant because it helped her from admitting her feelings. That she had feelings for Seth. Seth who was from the enemy guild. The family that has been feuding with hers for years. She took that personally whereas Seth was more open minded. He felt that they could get over this family feud and overcome it. This is a elephant in the room for both of them.
Seth was more easygoing and open minded than Kam but together they are a formidable force. With Rhyden the sweet fun cousin of Seth these three work together to save elvenrude. As the danger and mystery gets more ominous, Kam and Seth get closer and get a better understanding of each other. They also see that they are there for each other no matter what. That was seen when Seth sacrificed so Kam wouldn’t be alone in New Orleans.
the story was fast paced and wonderful. the writing keeps you enthralled as the characters kept you wanting more. Each character draws you in and gives you some kind of feeling towards them. For example, Rhyden always put a smile on my face, Seth made me root for him and see if Kam could see what he did, Kam made me feel proud to see such a strong self confident woman, Harad Seth’s grandfather to me was sweet but made me wary, Seth’s uncle freaked me out and had me on edge. Esty was to cute for words. the romance aspect wasn’t overwhelming and didn’t take over the story but blended in as a natural progression. The warring of emotions by Kam felt natural as well.
The ending wasn’t one I expected but sort of felt was going to happen. well not happen as in the circumstances and why but had a nagging feeling that who it was that was responsible was that person although I was never sure and I wanted to get to the end to know. You had to know like playing a game in clue or reading a Agatha Christie mystery you get so involved and trying to solve the mystery that when you think you know the answer you can’t wait to see if you are right.
this was a well written fast paced story that has all the elements of love, romance, family and loyalty to them and friendship, danger and self discovery. A wonderful story that keeps you intrigued to the end.
November 16, 2015
I loved this story!! I'm so glad I found out it's going to have a continuation. This one is about elves who live in the human world but still hide their secrets from humans. They have magical ports to transfer them from Elvenrude, their home land, and the human land. When elves start showing up in the human New Orleans that shouldn't be there, then are murdered and missing, things begin to get crazy and the fun really starts.
Kam is a great leading lady. She's smart and independent and wants to work for her place, not have it given or dictated to her. So when she gets a job from the king to uncover these bad occurrences, she does so with everything. Except there's Seth, who's from a competing house of elves and she thinks he's the problem. But he thinks she's the problem. So they follow each other's moves. Thank goodness they figured out how to work together, though that just leads to exceptional frustration. They are so drawn to each other. Plus I absolutely loved seth's cousin Rhyden. I think he may be my favorite character.
Both kam and Seth has obligations to their families. And kam is in a place where her family wants her married, though she has Caleb, her boyfriend, she loves him, as friends. Caleb wants her home with children, not fighting for the king. I thought I would hate him, but he's a great guy. And Kam's sister is hilarious. Both families have their differences but both surprised me at the end. I knew who the bad guy was but I did not see how evil he really was. It was shocking. And I loved the relationship with the king and his right hand man. It's fascinating.
What was also fascinating is the great world building. I loved how the author fit Elvenrude into such a beautiful place but almost normal. The mystery and suspense kept this book in my hand. The romance kept me wanting more. This was such a great start to a series and I can't wait for more. I've become a huge fan of this author and find her creativity amazing. Well done! 5 PAWS!!!
Kam is a great leading lady. She's smart and independent and wants to work for her place, not have it given or dictated to her. So when she gets a job from the king to uncover these bad occurrences, she does so with everything. Except there's Seth, who's from a competing house of elves and she thinks he's the problem. But he thinks she's the problem. So they follow each other's moves. Thank goodness they figured out how to work together, though that just leads to exceptional frustration. They are so drawn to each other. Plus I absolutely loved seth's cousin Rhyden. I think he may be my favorite character.
Both kam and Seth has obligations to their families. And kam is in a place where her family wants her married, though she has Caleb, her boyfriend, she loves him, as friends. Caleb wants her home with children, not fighting for the king. I thought I would hate him, but he's a great guy. And Kam's sister is hilarious. Both families have their differences but both surprised me at the end. I knew who the bad guy was but I did not see how evil he really was. It was shocking. And I loved the relationship with the king and his right hand man. It's fascinating.
What was also fascinating is the great world building. I loved how the author fit Elvenrude into such a beautiful place but almost normal. The mystery and suspense kept this book in my hand. The romance kept me wanting more. This was such a great start to a series and I can't wait for more. I've become a huge fan of this author and find her creativity amazing. Well done! 5 PAWS!!!
April 18, 2016
Cross Keys (Elvenrude #1) by Ally Shields Kameo Ryndel’s mission to bring a common elf home becomes complicated when he’s shot and his body is stolen and she has to join forces with rival guild member Seth Lormarc to root out a conspiracy that threatens their entire way of life in this thrilling urban fantasy romance.
There is a centuries old feud between Kameo’s family and Seth’s which makes working with each other a bit complicated and the readers can’t help but get pulled in to the romance as their working relationship becomes even more complicated by a sizzling attraction that neither can deny. There is a bit of emotional turmoil flowing from the pages due to their situation especially as Kameo has a decision to make regarding her personal life and another suitor. Strong compelling characters grab the reader’s attention while the fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers glued to the pages with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.
The well written scenes are full of vivid details that make it easy for the readers to become engrossed in the story while bringing the characters to life. Kameo’s character is energetic and easily related to which immediately draws readers into the story and adrenaline pumping excitement builds as an illegal portal crossing has the King re-instating Kameo into the Elite Guard in order to handle the situation. The excitement continues to grow more exhilarating as Seth Lormarc appears on the scene and sets some fiery sparks off with the danger escalating as they uncover a deadly plot.
I was completely caught up in this story from the very beginning, the author’s creative elements add lots of spice and keeps things interesting, there was never a dull moment to be found and some unexpected twists kept me guessing as to what would happen next and I can’t wait to read the next book and find out what happens next.
There is a centuries old feud between Kameo’s family and Seth’s which makes working with each other a bit complicated and the readers can’t help but get pulled in to the romance as their working relationship becomes even more complicated by a sizzling attraction that neither can deny. There is a bit of emotional turmoil flowing from the pages due to their situation especially as Kameo has a decision to make regarding her personal life and another suitor. Strong compelling characters grab the reader’s attention while the fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers glued to the pages with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.
The well written scenes are full of vivid details that make it easy for the readers to become engrossed in the story while bringing the characters to life. Kameo’s character is energetic and easily related to which immediately draws readers into the story and adrenaline pumping excitement builds as an illegal portal crossing has the King re-instating Kameo into the Elite Guard in order to handle the situation. The excitement continues to grow more exhilarating as Seth Lormarc appears on the scene and sets some fiery sparks off with the danger escalating as they uncover a deadly plot.
I was completely caught up in this story from the very beginning, the author’s creative elements add lots of spice and keeps things interesting, there was never a dull moment to be found and some unexpected twists kept me guessing as to what would happen next and I can’t wait to read the next book and find out what happens next.
September 2, 2015
Let me just say that I love any story that brings elves into my world again. I love when an author tries to work with them. I just wish that each author would give us a back ground. This book is no exception, I want more history, more about how we got to where we are today in the book. I just like knowing how people got to be the way they are in the books I read.
Kameo was a great character and I can't wait to see what comes next for her. I just wish we had a better love interest for her. I want my main characters to have a strong, good love interest. I know that there are bad boys, but they aren't the ones who leave me with a bad taste in my mouth. I am all about a good "bad" boy, but I got this feeling that Caleb is just not that kind of bad boy. I think that he will end up being a bad love interest.
I can't wait to see what will happen with the series. I think that since it is elves, we have so much we see being done. I know there are books out there with elves, but really no many that have the main story built off of them. They are just a part of a whole, not the central theme.
I think that Ally has got a great start to a series and she did it so well! It was not rushed and the build up of the love interest side was better then most books. I just hate when an author has her characters fall in love in like three pages, or 24 hours. (Which ever comes first.) I can't wait to see what she does next!
Pros: Elves! Smooth Story, great ideas
Cons: Some characters just didn't do it for me.
Overall rating: Definitely recommend it!
Impressions: Strong story, good ideas, ELVES!!!
Kameo was a great character and I can't wait to see what comes next for her. I just wish we had a better love interest for her. I want my main characters to have a strong, good love interest. I know that there are bad boys, but they aren't the ones who leave me with a bad taste in my mouth. I am all about a good "bad" boy, but I got this feeling that Caleb is just not that kind of bad boy. I think that he will end up being a bad love interest.
I can't wait to see what will happen with the series. I think that since it is elves, we have so much we see being done. I know there are books out there with elves, but really no many that have the main story built off of them. They are just a part of a whole, not the central theme.
I think that Ally has got a great start to a series and she did it so well! It was not rushed and the build up of the love interest side was better then most books. I just hate when an author has her characters fall in love in like three pages, or 24 hours. (Which ever comes first.) I can't wait to see what she does next!
Pros: Elves! Smooth Story, great ideas
Cons: Some characters just didn't do it for me.
Overall rating: Definitely recommend it!
Impressions: Strong story, good ideas, ELVES!!!
September 11, 2015
an average paranormal
The usual characters doing the usual things, fighting with the usual bad guys. Nothing new, nothing bad, just an average story, reasonably well written...
The usual characters doing the usual things, fighting with the usual bad guys. Nothing new, nothing bad, just an average story, reasonably well written...
March 3, 2016
3.5 stars
March 31, 2016
ready for the next
dnf
April 26, 2018Self note: theres so much caleb
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews