3.73

2

Mar 21, 2018

This book contains three of her earlier works, Spellbound, Ever After, and In Dreams. The theme is, of course, magic. Unfortunately, I didn't care for the theme. All three books seemed frivolous and lacked the attention to detail that makes Ms. Roberts' books come alive. I managed to finish the three for the third time, but I doubt I will read them again. On the other hand, it is amazing that of the over one hundred books that Ms. Roberts has written and that I own, there are only two I don't This book contains three of her earlier works, Spellbound, Ever After, and In Dreams. The theme is, of course, magic. Unfortunately, I didn't care for the theme. All three books seemed frivolous and lacked the attention to detail that makes Ms. Roberts' books come alive. I managed to finish the three for the third time, but I doubt I will read them again. On the other hand, it is amazing that of the over one hundred books that Ms. Roberts has written and that I own, there are only two I don't care for. That in and of itself is amazing. PS. For those who are interested, The Reef is the other one. ...more

4

Dec 14, 2012

Comprised of three novellas from Nora’s “Once Upon” collaborations, this was a quick, easy read. “Spellbound” starred Calin Farrell, an overworked artist who impulsively travels to Ireland and meets up with Bryna, a witch guarding the Castle of Secrets. As a child, Calin dreamed of Bryna, but as he got older, he blocked the connection and buried her memory. Bryna, with her powers, kept her eye on Calin, knowing he was the key to her destiny. Now, she has mere hours to convince him that she is Comprised of three novellas from Nora’s “Once Upon” collaborations, this was a quick, easy read. “Spellbound” starred Calin Farrell, an overworked artist who impulsively travels to Ireland and meets up with Bryna, a witch guarding the Castle of Secrets. As a child, Calin dreamed of Bryna, but as he got older, he blocked the connection and buried her memory. Bryna, with her powers, kept her eye on Calin, knowing he was the key to her destiny. Now, she has mere hours to convince him that she is his, or she suffers a horrible fate.

In “Ever After,” misfit Allena Kennedy is in Ireland working for her sister’s tour company when she misses a ferry and winds up on a strange island inhabited by Conal O’Neil. Through stormy days and nights, Conal fights the knowledge that Allena is his destiny, even while he falls for her.

“In Dreams” was the story of Flynn, a 528-year-old magician under a spell. Because he misused his powers, Flynn was doomed to exist in a dreamy half world, only to emerge and be human for one week every hundred years. Upon waking on the end of his fifth century of imprisonment, Flynn hears Kayleen pounding at his door. Vacationing in Ireland, Kayleen crashed her car in a storm, and ran toward the lights of Flynn’s castle. Flynn had dreamed of her during his exile and cherished his time with her, knowing he had only one week. Can he learn his lesson and break the spell?

Each story was under 100 pages in length, and jumped straight into the heart of the matter. Each was rich in character and setting, a flash of the talent that is Nora Roberts. For those who like a little magic and don’t have a lot of time, the book was an entertaining way to pass a few hours.
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3

Aug 07, 2014

"A Little Magic" by Nora Roberts is comprised of three novellas that tell love stories that involve Ireland, magic, and destiny. I have to admit that I like Nora Robert's current style much more than her older work, including this anthology. It might be just me, but I don't really find it very romantic the idea of falling in love in one day. I think the dance and mystery of a long courtship is much more entertaining to read. And for that reason, I didn't particularly enjoy these stories, "A Little Magic" by Nora Roberts is comprised of three novellas that tell love stories that involve Ireland, magic, and destiny. I have to admit that I like Nora Robert's current style much more than her older work, including this anthology. It might be just me, but I don't really find it very romantic the idea of falling in love in one day. I think the dance and mystery of a long courtship is much more entertaining to read. And for that reason, I didn't particularly enjoy these stories, although they are a light, quick read and a diverting way to pass the time.

Spellbound: My least favorite of the three, tells the story of a man who was spellbounded by a witch 1000 years ago, and finds himself in Ireland to find (literally) the woman of his dreams and face the curse and his destiny.

Ever After: A scattered-brain woman who is having trouble finding her place in life is casted away in a magical island where she meets a grouchy artist who refuses to have his life decided by destiny. I actually really liked the characters of this story, and for that I think it was my favorite out of the three.

In Dreams: A magician, Flynn, is punished for abusing his power and is trapped for 500 years in dreams, being allowed to live again only for a week every 100 years. In these dreams he meets a woman who knows is meant to be with him. Kayleen travels to Ireland to take a break from her mother who is yet again about to be married. During the trip she gets lost in a forest, has an accident, and finds herself in the house of this mysterious magician. I enjoyed reading this story because I found the character of Flynn very interesting, although the story itself stops at being cute.

Overall, I think Nora Roberts fans will enjoy this collection and romance readers will find it quite romantic and entertaining. If you don't like overly cheesy stories or stories that have a magic/mystic component to it, "A Little Magic" will probably not be your cup of tea. ...more

2

Mar 10, 2011

This book was very slow, each story had the same plot, girl falls for boy, there is magic, they don’t want to be in love, the one has to have the other to break some horrible spell that cast on them, and oh life is so bad, you saved me, you’re so amazing. Yea I don't mind magic, I don’t mind a GOOD love story. This book took me over 2 months to read because I just couldn't do it all at once. I expected so much more from this author! I sadly think that 2 stars may be too high for this book but I This book was very slow, each story had the same plot, girl falls for boy, there is magic, they don’t want to be in love, the one has to have the other to break some horrible spell that cast on them, and oh life is so bad, you saved me, you’re so amazing. Yea I don't mind magic, I don’t mind a GOOD love story. This book took me over 2 months to read because I just couldn't do it all at once. I expected so much more from this author! I sadly think that 2 stars may be too high for this book but I like the author too much to give it less. ...more

3

Sep 21, 2008

This is the second book/series I've read, by Nora Roberts. I liked each of the individual stories. However, I feel that grouping them together was too much. They were so similar that it just felt like I was reading the same thing over and took away from the joy I might get from each singular storyline.

4

May 23, 2011

A collection of three short stories. It was very entertaining. It's one of those books that doesn't make you think too much. It was a nice break from reading more intense stories.

0

Oct 24, 2014

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. A collection of three romance novellas, all containing a touch of magic, from the #1 "New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts.


Didn't read. Too banal and nuts.

3

Jul 27, 2018

Nora Roberts’ early work

Not as skilled as her recently stories — almost the same story in many different ways, but unlike her full length books, there’s not enough time for her heroines to differentiate themselves.

3

Sep 03, 2009

Another Nora Roberts trilogy, this time all three stories set in Ireland. All three is very easy to read and rather whimsical.

"Spellbound". Meet Collin Farrel who has been plagued by strange dreams all his life. Dreams of at red headed girl. As Colin grows so does she. After some years he learns to block the dreams and in doing so he blocks his and hers destiny. At a whim Colin travels to Ireland and meet Bryna, a stunning red head. She is a witch and he is her warrior and only united they can Another Nora Roberts trilogy, this time all three stories set in Ireland. All three is very easy to read and rather whimsical.

"Spellbound". Meet Collin Farrel who has been plagued by strange dreams all his life. Dreams of at red headed girl. As Colin grows so does she. After some years he learns to block the dreams and in doing so he blocks his and hers destiny. At a whim Colin travels to Ireland and meet Bryna, a stunning red head. She is a witch and he is her warrior and only united they can fight the evil warlock.

The second one, "Ever after", is about a woman, Allena, who don´t fit in the modern NY life style. When she, by the help of a little magic, ends up on an island outside Ireland and meet Conlan, she finally finds her destiny. He is a brooding artist who is bound by magic to find his true love on the shortest night. He is back on his island to defy his destiny. Allena ends up on the same island with a dose of magic and putters around, cleaning his house and cooking his food. And that makes her very happy.

"In dreams" was my favorite. Flynn is cursed only to live in half dreams for most times but he is granted one week every 500 years to live like an ordinary man. This time he finds Kayleen at his doorstep and he brings her in and tends to her. She is the woman he has been dreaming about. The spend time together and Kayleen learns to see that there is more to Flynn than meets the eye. At the end of the week Flynn has to make the ultimate sacrifice. Either he keeps Kayleen with him and condemn her to the same life that he lives or he will release her.

All three was very alike, I think it would be better to read them as stand alone instead of together. But even if I don´t think paranormal romance is Nora Roberts strongest, they are still enjoyable.
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1

Jan 22, 2019

All the short stories together I give it an average of 1.5 out of 5 stars.

Spellbound:
"2 out of 5 stars. Can I just say awwwwwwwwww ...
It was a cute story but not one I would ever read again ... to predictable and BORING!"

Ever After:
"3 out of 5 stars. I really liked this story more so then the first one! The characters were great. I loved Allena's spunk!"

In Dreams:
"2.5 out of 5 stars. It was ok .... not any real shockers on how I thought the ending would go ... so if your looking for a All the short stories together I give it an average of 1.5 out of 5 stars.

Spellbound:
"2 out of 5 stars. Can I just say awwwwwwwwww ...
It was a cute story but not one I would ever read again ... to predictable and BORING!"

Ever After:
"3 out of 5 stars. I really liked this story more so then the first one! The characters were great. I loved Allena's spunk!"

In Dreams:
"2.5 out of 5 stars. It was ok .... not any real shockers on how I thought the ending would go ... so if your looking for a predictable romance then this is the one for you!"

Read more of this review and THREE TEASERS here: https://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2010/05/disappointmentvillemade-grade-little.html ...more

2

Mar 06, 2019

A bit too much of an eye roller, even when I just needed an extra easy read

3

Oct 03, 2009

My first sampling of Nora Roberts (I know I live under a rock). The stories in this collection were sweet, quick romances. I enjoyed the first 2 stories the most -- Spellbound & Everafter. The third story - In Dreams - was my least favorite. The male lead was too arrogant and the story was a little too far fetched for me. I enjoyed the little touches of magic thrown in and do look forward to reading more of Roberts books.

4

May 11, 2011

Three short novels that are all set in Ireland: Spellbound, Ever After, and In Dreams. Spellbound was about a 1000 year old curse coming to completion, with formerly doomed lovers being brought together again. Ever After was about a pre-destined love, with an American tourist getting lost and discovering herself on an island with a young artist. In Dreams reminded me of Beauty and the Beast or Sleeping Beauty, in that a woman gets lost and finds herself in a manor with an eccentric man who is Three short novels that are all set in Ireland: Spellbound, Ever After, and In Dreams. Spellbound was about a 1000 year old curse coming to completion, with formerly doomed lovers being brought together again. Ever After was about a pre-destined love, with an American tourist getting lost and discovering herself on an island with a young artist. In Dreams reminded me of Beauty and the Beast or Sleeping Beauty, in that a woman gets lost and finds herself in a manor with an eccentric man who is under a curse. Only love can find the way! I thought the first was a little too cheesy for me, but I did enjoy the final one quite a bit. Good light-hearted reading. ...more

1

Apr 24, 2011

Usually I enjoy Nora Roberts as an author. She has well fleshed out characters, and you can see their growth as people throughout the story. One good example is the Chesapeake Bay series she wrote. Watching 3 brothers come home to take care of their youngest brother was endearing especially since they couldn't be more different half the time.

Unfortunately, in this case, I did not like this book. All three of the stories I read I could see where things could be fleshed out much more. She could Usually I enjoy Nora Roberts as an author. She has well fleshed out characters, and you can see their growth as people throughout the story. One good example is the Chesapeake Bay series she wrote. Watching 3 brothers come home to take care of their youngest brother was endearing especially since they couldn't be more different half the time.

Unfortunately, in this case, I did not like this book. All three of the stories I read I could see where things could be fleshed out much more. She could have given the characters so much. At one point one of the character's mother showed up in the first short story and she had barely been mentioned the entire time. I expected more because Roberts has always done a wonderful job of entertaining her readers. Her short stories I will pass on, but the longer novels, I will continue to enjoy! ...more

2

Nov 28, 2010

The length of each of the stories doesn't give the reader time to believe in the main characters' relationship. I had a really hard time getting through the first one because the reader doesn't learn enough about each of the characters to care about their fate.

The second one was slightly better because each of the character's flaws is understandable -- most people know someone who fits either one or both of their personalities. I personally connected more with Conal because I don't like to be The length of each of the stories doesn't give the reader time to believe in the main characters' relationship. I had a really hard time getting through the first one because the reader doesn't learn enough about each of the characters to care about their fate.

The second one was slightly better because each of the character's flaws is understandable -- most people know someone who fits either one or both of their personalities. I personally connected more with Conal because I don't like to be told what to do, or follow the crowd.

I just started the third and last short story, and I connect almost one-hundred-percent with the main female character, because I'm extremely organized and like to leave nothing to chance. I'm only comfortable when I'm in control of what's happening to me, and rarely do I seek true adventures. I liked the last one the best, but the entire book was not really my cup of tea. ...more

3

Sep 13, 2013

It's a lovely book of three similar stories set in beautiful Ireland.
Yes each story did sound a-lot alike but i didn't mind. The best ones are In Dreams and Everafter. If your looking to bring out your passion and love,set out the candles or light the fireplace,put on some nice calming music and dive into these intriguing romantic stories.The first one is a little slow and dull at times but the romance is delightful. I love the dialogue and the way the scenery is described. It really gets you It's a lovely book of three similar stories set in beautiful Ireland.
Yes each story did sound a-lot alike but i didn't mind. The best ones are In Dreams and Everafter. If your looking to bring out your passion and love,set out the candles or light the fireplace,put on some nice calming music and dive into these intriguing romantic stories.The first one is a little slow and dull at times but the romance is delightful. I love the dialogue and the way the scenery is described. It really gets you into it.I loved the way it had some poetry and intriguing words.Well to me it seemed like poetry,especially the story In Dreams. There were some slow dull moments here and there but it was still enjoyable. I loved these poetic words,"Like the dream,A mist within the mist". I like this one too,"You brought me a gift,love freely given". "I give you a gift in return." "Life to be lived." Well maybe those are quotes but i like to call it poetry. If you enjoyed this Irish collection,Don't forget to check out Nora's other Irish Trilogy. Heart of the sea,Jewels of the sun,and Tears of the moon. This trilogy gave me goosebumps and gave me this warm happy feeling in my heart. These two Irish Trilogy's are my absolute favorites from Nora Roberts. Happy reading everyone. ...more

4

Aug 31, 2013

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Spellbound by Nora Roberts 3/5 - typical Nora Roberts. Flowery and non-explicit love scenes and a hero/heroine that are destined to be together. I did get a bit irritated with the heroine who seemed to be getting frustrated that her Hero wasn't falling in love with her and trusting her magic fast enough (within 1 day).

Ever After - Nora Roberts - 3/5 - All the men in Conal's family are destined for a certain woman who shows up wearing a star pendant. And so Conal is hiding on his island before Spellbound by Nora Roberts 3/5 - typical Nora Roberts. Flowery and non-explicit love scenes and a hero/heroine that are destined to be together. I did get a bit irritated with the heroine who seemed to be getting frustrated that her Hero wasn't falling in love with her and trusting her magic fast enough (within 1 day).

Ever After - Nora Roberts - 3/5 - All the men in Conal's family are destined for a certain woman who shows up wearing a star pendant. And so Conal is hiding on his island before the deadline in which he has to claim her, hoping to avoid destiny, so that he can make his own choice. So when Allena shows up on his island wearing the star pendant, he'll have to make a choice...meet his destiny or not. This was an okay story. It kind of irritated me that when it came down to it, Conal really didn't have a choice and I can totally understand why he was so upset. In addition, Allena sort of irritated me because she shows up and instantly becomes his maid and handyman. And it seems that is all she really wants to do with her life...clean his house and fix things for him.

In Dreams - Nora Roberts - 4/5 - Flynn was born of magic. A long time ago, he abused his magic and was exiled. He has since lived a long, lonely and isolated existence. Every hundred years, he gets 7 days to be "alive" and collect all that he can. If it comes to him, he can keep it. And so, when Kayleen stumbles onto his doorstep, injured, he decides to keep her. As the week goes on and they come to care for one another, he begins to question his decision. I really like this story. Flynn starts out flawed, but because Kayleen acts as his conscience, he grows and begins to realize what is really important. The romance between these two is magical, if somewhat rushed, but the author uses dreams to explain the insta-love. And the ending was deliciously angsty. ...more

5

Jul 21, 2019

Fairy tales come true

I loved every story in this book!
Who doesn't dream of finding a fairy tale kind of love? These stories swept me away, so romantic and magical. I loved it.

4

Mar 01, 2018

Three stories ostensibly of love. The first two were sweet, the third bitter. Each was brief yet steeped with words, and magic. Each was a tale of loss, and of gifts.

3

May 27, 2018

It’s Nora Roberts...you can’t go wrong with her cheesy love stories. I like her newer love stories more but this was a fun easy read.

2

Aug 23, 2019

Low score mostly for the last story which DNF. The consent element was murky at best, nonexistent at worst. I couldn’t tell so I stopped reading it.

The other stories were fine. Nothing special.

4

Jun 17, 2017

This was super cute. I loved all the romance, and the magic intertwined. The characters were a bit annoying, and way too stubborn for my taste, but whatever. Super cute, would totally recommend to read.

2

Jun 26, 2018

I give this book a score of meh. Roberts is better in trilogy form. The first two stories in this book had very similar plots. The third was essentially Beauty and the Beast, but a little more Stockholm Syndrome-y. That being said, if you need a quick easy read, this will work.

2

Oct 27, 2018

(Spell Bound, Ever After, In Dreams)
She's an author I'm fond of and will read more despite any intermittent mediocrity, possibly from publisher pressure. Who knows?
2* x-rated
Bodies get hotter, closer, repeat.

3

Jul 20, 2019

Magic and Ireland-- the two reasons why teenaged me fell in love with Nora Roberts a long time ago. So nostalgia may have me rating this one a bit high. The first story read like a quick synopsis, something that could be developed and stretched into one the the trilogies she is famous for. The second story was my favorite. I liked Allena and Conal, and for some reason her acceptance and quick love was more realistic to me than in the other two stories. The only thing missing for me was the Magic and Ireland-- the two reasons why teenaged me fell in love with Nora Roberts a long time ago. So nostalgia may have me rating this one a bit high. The first story read like a quick synopsis, something that could be developed and stretched into one the the trilogies she is famous for. The second story was my favorite. I liked Allena and Conal, and for some reason her acceptance and quick love was more realistic to me than in the other two stories. The only thing missing for me was the "why". I didn't understand why Conal's family was fated, and what purpose it served. The third story was a bit predictable, and it did remind me of Beauty and the Beast. I just didn't understand why Kaleen fell in love so quickly. So 2 2-star tales and 1 3-star tale but since it's Nora, I am giving the overall book the 3. ...more