Review: Forged

Title: The World of Nightwalkers #4: Forged

Author: Jacquelyn Frank

Date of Publication: April 29, 2014

Formats Available: Paperback, E-book

Buy This Book: Amazon

Synopsis: From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Frank comes a seductive new paranormal romance set in the World of the Nightwalkers, as a battle-scarred bodyguard and a sensitive beauty risk their lives—and their hearts—in the face of evil.

When Katrina Haynes discovers a large man lying wounded in the snow, she fears he is at death’s door. But as Kat tends to his injuries, she quickly realizes that they’re the least of her worries. With an irresistible Scottish brogue and a strange ability to harden his chiseled body like a statue, the stranger awakens a desire she is unable to resist—and a fascination about the intriguing world he exists in.

As a proud Gargoyle, Ahnvil must safeguard the Nightwalker to whom he’s sworn fealty. But as this bewitching woman nurses him back to health, arousing an almost uncontrollable hunger within him, he is possessed with the fierce impulse to protect her as well. And he will have to shield her—for by coming to his rescue, Kat has placed herself in the middle of a supernatural war . . . and exposed herself to dark, powerful magic. As human and Gargoyle forge an unbreakable bond, Kat will discover that despite his intimidating strength and size, one thing Ahnvil does not possess is a heart of stone.

My Review:

Forged absolutely blew me away. I started this novel expecting the typical heroine with something to prove and the instant romance that I tend to see a lot of in the paranormal genre. However, it quickly became clear that Forged was not going to fall into either of these stereotypes. Although it was the 4th book in the series, and I haven't read any of the others, I had no problem following the plot and I ended up enjoying this book more with every page.

Kat and Ahnvil were great characters to read about (even though I just couldn't take anyone with the name Ahnvil seriously). Kat was sweet but fiery and I loved watching the banter between her and Ahnvil. Both of them had such strong personalities that watching both of them interact was one of the most fun parts of the novel. Plus there were plenty of ancient curses, new creatures, and sexy romance scenes to keep me entertained throughout the entirety of the novel.

The number one reason I loved this book was the romance. Sure, Kat and Ahnvil started off the story with plenty of lust and sexual tension but they didn't act on it until much later in the novel, giving me the opportunity to get to know both of them and allowing me to appreciate the romance for what it was, rather than trying to figure out their personalities in the midst of passionate encounters. Though Ahnvil's possessiveness of Kat was a little over the top she wasn't afraid to put him in his place. I loved how they weren't afraid to speak their minds, even if it developed into a fight, and even when they were fighting it was obvious that they still loved and cared for each other.

I was also hugely impressed by the plot, full of action and excitement there was hardly a dull moment throughout the bulk of the novel. Gargoyles seem to be making a steady appearance in the paranormal genre and Frank did a fantastic job developing the lore that surrounds them. From Egyptian myths to a unique crew of secondary characters this book had it all! I especially love SingSing, I'm seriously hoping she gets her own book in the future because her bouncy and mischievous personality kept me smiling whenever she was around.

Overall Forged is a solid addition to the paranormal romance genre and I'm excited to continue with the series. I would definitely recommend this one to fans of romance and of the paranormal. A great read!

4/5