Bull Moon Rising by Ruby Dixon
Series: Royal Artifactual Guild #1
Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
The special first edition hardcover will include a gorgeous, shimmering jacket with effects, brilliantly illustrated four-color endpapers, striking and detailed-stained edges, and a beautiful foil-stamped case.
In a world of magical artifacts and fantastical beings, a woman determined to save her family joins forces with an unlikely partner, in this steamy romantasy by USA Today bestselling author Ruby Dixon.
As a Holder’s daughter, Aspeth Honori knows the importance of magical artifacts . . . which is why it’s a disaster that her father has gambled all theirs away. Now that her family is in danger of losing their hold—and their heads—if anyone finds out the truth, Aspeth decides to do something about it. She’ll join the Royal Artifactual Guild and the adventurers who explore ancient underground ruins to retrieve the coveted arcane items.
It’s a great plan—with one big problem. The guild won’t let her train because she’s a woman. Aspeth needs a chaperone of some kind. The best way to get around this problem? Marry someone who will let her become an apprentice. Who better than a surly guild member who requires a favor of his own? He’s a minotaur (it’s fine) who is her teacher (also fine) . . . and he’s about to go into rut (which is where it gets tricky). He also has no idea she’s a noble (oops), and he’ll want nothing to do with her if he discovers her real identity.
Now Aspeth just has to pass the guild tests, thwart a fortune hunter, and save her hold—oh, and survive a rut with her monstrous, horned husband, whom she might be falling in love with.
It’s time to dig deep. Literally.
Review
The story centers around Aspeth, the daughter of a nobleman whose estate has fallen on hard times. Desperate to bring in much-needed money without being forced into an unwanted marriage, Aspeth decides to pursue her lifelong dream—joining the Royal Artifactual Guild. However, the guild doesn’t welcome women without a chaperone, so she agrees to marry Hawk, a Taurian (think Minotaur) who also needs a wife for his own reasons (of the steamy variety).
Aspeth soon finds herself in a class filled with other misfits as she embarks on her journey at the guild, which becomes an architectural school adventure with some monster romance sprinkled in. Hawk, the classic cinnamon-roll hero, is a gentle giant who adores Aspeth’s quirks and awkwardness. If you enjoy a solid plot mixed with a bit of spice, this book offers both in a fun and adventurous setting. I’d definitely be eager to explore more stories set in this unique universe!
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