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A Magnus Blackwell Novel #0
Blackwell
Hell has a new master
In the late 1800s, handsome, wealthy New Englander, Magnus Blackwell, is the envy of all.
When Magnus meets Jacob O’Conner—a Harvard student from the working class—an unlikely friendship is forged. But their close bond is soon challenged by a captivating woman; a woman Magnus wants, but Jacob gets.
Devastated, Magnus seeks solace in a trip to New Orleans. After a chance meeting with Oscar Wilde, he becomes immersed in a world of depravity and brutality, inevitably becoming the inspiration for Dorian Gray. Armed with the forbidden magic of voodoo, he sets his sights on winning back the woman Jacob stole from him.
Amid the trappings of Victorian society, two men, bent on revenge, will lay the foundation for a curse that will forever alter their destinies.
In the late 1800s, handsome, wealthy New Englander, Magnus Blackwell, is the envy of all.
When Magnus meets Jacob O’Conner—a Harvard student from the working class—an unlikely friendship is forged. But their close bond is soon challenged by a captivating woman; a woman Magnus wants, but Jacob gets.
Devastated, Magnus seeks solace in a trip to New Orleans. After a chance meeting with Oscar Wilde, he becomes immersed in a world of depravity and brutality, inevitably becoming the inspiration for Dorian Gray. Armed with the forbidden magic of voodoo, he sets his sights on winning back the woman Jacob stole from him.
Amid the trappings of Victorian society, two men, bent on revenge, will lay the foundation for a curse that will forever alter their destinies.
295 pages, Hardcover
First published January 17, 2017
About the author
Alexandrea Weis
52 books1,101 followersAlexandrea Weis is an advanced practice registered nurse who was born and raised in New Orleans. Having been brought up in the motion picture industry, she learned to tell stories from a different perspective and began writing at the age of eight. Infusing the rich tapestry of her hometown into her award-winning novels, she believes that creating vivid characters makes a story moving and memorable. A permitted/certified wildlife rehabber with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, Weis rescues orphaned and injured wildlife. She lives with her husband and pets in New Orleans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
February 3, 2017
4 Stars
“Hell has a new Master”……..
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis, with Lucas Astor- is a gripping tale of jealousy, betrayal, and revenge. It is set in Boston and New Orleans in the 1800’s; it’s a time and place where a person of means could get away with anything. The story is a historical thriller, with supernatural/paranormal elements- in the vein of Dorian Grey/The Picture of Dorian Grey.
Jacob O’Connor meets Magnus Blackwell on the first day at Harvard. Both are studying Architecture, but come from vastly different worlds. Magnus comes from very old money and a life of utter privilege- never wanting for anything in his life, whatever he wants he gets- his good looks, wealth and family name granting him considerable advantages, unavailable to most. The Blackwell family were practically New England royalty and Magnus exploited this fact quite regularly. Jacob on the other hand, was orphaned at a very young age and has had none of the privileges afforded to Magnus. Jacob was lucky to come to the notice of his mentor, a well-respected architect in Boston, who took Jacob under his wing and helped him gain a scholarship to attend Harvard. He has struggled and worked very hard to get where he is. The unlikely pair became firm friends, what began as a somewhat casual acquaintance quickly grew into a steadfast friendship.
Then Frances McGee enters the picture. She is beautiful, smart and spirited- with a brash and witty personality. Men were charmed by her and Magnus was no exception. She was everything he had ever wanted….. and more. He would have her, at any cost. Problem was Magnus’s reputation as a ladies man and his ‘tastes’ when it came to the bedroom. Frances was a ‘proper’ young lady who was not going to be just another one of his conquests. She was saving herself for marriage. Magnus cast her aside in the hope that it would shock her into giving him what he wanted. Instead, she and Jacob struck up a friendship, fell in love and married.
Magnus was devastated, which soon turned to seething anger and jealousy. Darkness coursed through his veins, poisoning his heart and mind. He became quite bitter and twisted. Magnus was out for revenge, no matter the cost.
Needing to get away for a while, Magnus takes a trip to New Orleans and finds himself thrust into a world of debauchery and wickedness. Immersed in a culture of Voodoo, he arms himself with the forbidden power of black magic and heads back to Boston to seek his vengeance. What happens when he gets there? You really will have to read it and find out, I don’t want to spoil it for you by giving away too much.
This story has so much going on in it. The historical facts are really very interesting, especially to do with voodoo and its rituals; and also all the architectural history and references. The authors painted such a rich and vivid picture of Boston and New Orleans, and in such exquisite detail- I was completely immersed in the story.
They explored some intriguing ideas, such as Oscar Wilde getting his inspiration for Dorian Grey from meeting Magnus; and then they injected voodoo and various supernatural details into the storyline, which was pure genius; the characters had such passionate personalities and held such a powerful presence on the page, they were truly fascinating in all their wonderfully flawed glory. Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor are gifted authors, who choreographed the complex and multilayered plot flawlessly. Also managing to capture the emotional toll that the whole saga had on the characters- what jealousy, vengeance and depravity can do to a person’s psyche, and just how far someone is willing to go to get what they want and the price they are prepared to pay to do so.
So thrilling, intense and suspenseful- I loved the twist and spin that the authors put into it; I really wasn’t expecting that at all! I loved it!
Thank you Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor.
“Hell has a new Master”……..
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis, with Lucas Astor- is a gripping tale of jealousy, betrayal, and revenge. It is set in Boston and New Orleans in the 1800’s; it’s a time and place where a person of means could get away with anything. The story is a historical thriller, with supernatural/paranormal elements- in the vein of Dorian Grey/The Picture of Dorian Grey.
Jacob O’Connor meets Magnus Blackwell on the first day at Harvard. Both are studying Architecture, but come from vastly different worlds. Magnus comes from very old money and a life of utter privilege- never wanting for anything in his life, whatever he wants he gets- his good looks, wealth and family name granting him considerable advantages, unavailable to most. The Blackwell family were practically New England royalty and Magnus exploited this fact quite regularly. Jacob on the other hand, was orphaned at a very young age and has had none of the privileges afforded to Magnus. Jacob was lucky to come to the notice of his mentor, a well-respected architect in Boston, who took Jacob under his wing and helped him gain a scholarship to attend Harvard. He has struggled and worked very hard to get where he is. The unlikely pair became firm friends, what began as a somewhat casual acquaintance quickly grew into a steadfast friendship.
Then Frances McGee enters the picture. She is beautiful, smart and spirited- with a brash and witty personality. Men were charmed by her and Magnus was no exception. She was everything he had ever wanted….. and more. He would have her, at any cost. Problem was Magnus’s reputation as a ladies man and his ‘tastes’ when it came to the bedroom. Frances was a ‘proper’ young lady who was not going to be just another one of his conquests. She was saving herself for marriage. Magnus cast her aside in the hope that it would shock her into giving him what he wanted. Instead, she and Jacob struck up a friendship, fell in love and married.
Magnus was devastated, which soon turned to seething anger and jealousy. Darkness coursed through his veins, poisoning his heart and mind. He became quite bitter and twisted. Magnus was out for revenge, no matter the cost.
Needing to get away for a while, Magnus takes a trip to New Orleans and finds himself thrust into a world of debauchery and wickedness. Immersed in a culture of Voodoo, he arms himself with the forbidden power of black magic and heads back to Boston to seek his vengeance. What happens when he gets there? You really will have to read it and find out, I don’t want to spoil it for you by giving away too much.
This story has so much going on in it. The historical facts are really very interesting, especially to do with voodoo and its rituals; and also all the architectural history and references. The authors painted such a rich and vivid picture of Boston and New Orleans, and in such exquisite detail- I was completely immersed in the story.
They explored some intriguing ideas, such as Oscar Wilde getting his inspiration for Dorian Grey from meeting Magnus; and then they injected voodoo and various supernatural details into the storyline, which was pure genius; the characters had such passionate personalities and held such a powerful presence on the page, they were truly fascinating in all their wonderfully flawed glory. Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor are gifted authors, who choreographed the complex and multilayered plot flawlessly. Also managing to capture the emotional toll that the whole saga had on the characters- what jealousy, vengeance and depravity can do to a person’s psyche, and just how far someone is willing to go to get what they want and the price they are prepared to pay to do so.
So thrilling, intense and suspenseful- I loved the twist and spin that the authors put into it; I really wasn’t expecting that at all! I loved it!
Thank you Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor.
March 29, 2019
My Review:
Again, this duo leaves me with a love of their writing. I at first did not care for Mangus, he's brash, delivish, spoiled, moody, an all-around arrogant jerk. As the book goes on you love to hate him. Hell hath no fury like a man scorned. He is that way through circumstances and instead of doing the right thing he is always doing the wrong. It makes you feel sorry for him. He takes Jacob under his wing but I felt that Jacob was trying to make him a better person and he just wouldn't have it. In one part of the book, the Voodoo princess tells him his soul will and is marked by black spots and that he should change his ways. Well, this is Mangus, changing his ways is not an option.
I didn't really get into the book until Magnus went to New Orleans. I didn't care for the careless way he treated others and especially his beloved. It wasn't until he started to look at voodoo that it really caught my attention. Maybe because that subject fascinates me. After that, the book seemed to pick up and I really got into. I love the writing style of these duo writers and can't wait to read more of this series. This curse sets the tone of the book about midway through. You will find out what happens to this devil of a man. Jacob and Mangus will never be the same. =)
I would recommend the book for Dark Fantasy, Horror lovers!
I give the book 4.5 of 5 stars!
Again, this duo leaves me with a love of their writing. I at first did not care for Mangus, he's brash, delivish, spoiled, moody, an all-around arrogant jerk. As the book goes on you love to hate him. Hell hath no fury like a man scorned. He is that way through circumstances and instead of doing the right thing he is always doing the wrong. It makes you feel sorry for him. He takes Jacob under his wing but I felt that Jacob was trying to make him a better person and he just wouldn't have it. In one part of the book, the Voodoo princess tells him his soul will and is marked by black spots and that he should change his ways. Well, this is Mangus, changing his ways is not an option.
I didn't really get into the book until Magnus went to New Orleans. I didn't care for the careless way he treated others and especially his beloved. It wasn't until he started to look at voodoo that it really caught my attention. Maybe because that subject fascinates me. After that, the book seemed to pick up and I really got into. I love the writing style of these duo writers and can't wait to read more of this series. This curse sets the tone of the book about midway through. You will find out what happens to this devil of a man. Jacob and Mangus will never be the same. =)
I would recommend the book for Dark Fantasy, Horror lovers!
I give the book 4.5 of 5 stars!
November 7, 2016
WOW. I'm not quite sure where or how to begin this review. This book was something else. Dark..but not quite, although delving into Voodoo and it's rituals and history could be considered dark, it was intriguing as well as "educational", even for someone from Louisiana. Magnus Blackwell is truly something else. Handsome and wealthy you would think that he would be just some Alpha male, strutting around, making women sigh, but there is something much darker inside of Magnus, something lurking just below the surface and once you see what is there you will find that you really cannot stand this "creature", for lack of a better term.
I loved meeting famous author Oscar Wilde, and enjoyed his enthusiastic curiosity about Voodoo and the ceremonies, I even learned something about him that I didn't know, WOW. I, even after reading this book wonder to myself if he really believed, to himself, that Magnus was capable of and did indeed do the things that were done.
The characters were very well written and extremely well developed.
The story itself becomes quite intriguing once Magnus travels to New Orleans and continues to be so when he returns to his ancestral home. Poor Jacob, once his very dear friend and now architect for the renovations to the home, along with his wife are seeming trapped under Magnus' manipulative thumb. Jealousy, envy, and vengeance are all emotions that will be seen and felt by the two main male characters as this story progresses to it's surprising end.
Rich in the flavor of New Orleans and it's lore of voodoo, spells, spirits and ghosts, this book will entertain anyone who has the taste for this type of story. Although it begins and ends in Boston, the visiting of New Orleans will change the course of the story and bring back a bit of the old south to the wealthy of this particular manor.
Really good read, can't wait to see what happens in book 2!!!
I loved meeting famous author Oscar Wilde, and enjoyed his enthusiastic curiosity about Voodoo and the ceremonies, I even learned something about him that I didn't know, WOW. I, even after reading this book wonder to myself if he really believed, to himself, that Magnus was capable of and did indeed do the things that were done.
The characters were very well written and extremely well developed.
The story itself becomes quite intriguing once Magnus travels to New Orleans and continues to be so when he returns to his ancestral home. Poor Jacob, once his very dear friend and now architect for the renovations to the home, along with his wife are seeming trapped under Magnus' manipulative thumb. Jealousy, envy, and vengeance are all emotions that will be seen and felt by the two main male characters as this story progresses to it's surprising end.
Rich in the flavor of New Orleans and it's lore of voodoo, spells, spirits and ghosts, this book will entertain anyone who has the taste for this type of story. Although it begins and ends in Boston, the visiting of New Orleans will change the course of the story and bring back a bit of the old south to the wealthy of this particular manor.
Really good read, can't wait to see what happens in book 2!!!
December 3, 2016
5 Revenge is a dish best served.....with a side of Voodoo stars!
Whoa! This was a crazy good story. Set in the late 1800's, Jacob is a poor orphan lucky enough to have a benefactor to pay his way through Architecture school at Harvard. There he meets the arrogant, filthy rich and slightly sinister Magnus Blackwell, and they become fast friends despite their differences . From the beginning you realize that Jacob is the good guy and Magnus is anything but. Somehow they become quite good friends, that is, until a woman comes between them. And that is when things get interesting.
I don't want to give anything away, lets just say Magnus is evil. His thirst for revenge against Jacob is palpable, and he will stop at nothing to ease his rage. But, that isn't all there is to this story. OH no, no no. Just when you think you have it figured out BAM this takes a turn you will not see coming! I loved this story, it is dark, dangerous, and depraved, with some paranormal and voodoo thrown in for good measure. This story is written and paced to absolute perfection and will have you squirming in your seat. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book**
Whoa! This was a crazy good story. Set in the late 1800's, Jacob is a poor orphan lucky enough to have a benefactor to pay his way through Architecture school at Harvard. There he meets the arrogant, filthy rich and slightly sinister Magnus Blackwell, and they become fast friends despite their differences . From the beginning you realize that Jacob is the good guy and Magnus is anything but. Somehow they become quite good friends, that is, until a woman comes between them. And that is when things get interesting.
I don't want to give anything away, lets just say Magnus is evil. His thirst for revenge against Jacob is palpable, and he will stop at nothing to ease his rage. But, that isn't all there is to this story. OH no, no no. Just when you think you have it figured out BAM this takes a turn you will not see coming! I loved this story, it is dark, dangerous, and depraved, with some paranormal and voodoo thrown in for good measure. This story is written and paced to absolute perfection and will have you squirming in your seat. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book**
March 10, 2019
A lush gaslamp thriller that seems destined for a second life on television. Blackwell is the story of a rivalry that descends into a battle for the ages. In 1886, wealthy Harvard student Magnus Blackwell befriends fellow freshman Jacob O’ Connor. Unlike Magnus, whose family is as close to royalty as they came in New England, Jacob hails from working class stock. Their unlikely friendship is short-lived, as the two become hopelessly at odds over the love of fellow student Frances McGee.
This prequel to the Magnus Blackwell series by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor, authors of Death by the River, is a lush gaslamp thriller. The cinematic novel is filled with Victorian style, breathtaking period-specific architecture and a license for alternate history, such as the inclusion of Oscar Wilde. After befriending Magnus in New Orleans, Oscar declares him a man so obsessed with his greatness that he thinks he is above sin, citing him as the primary inspiration for his character Dorian Gray.
As love triangles go, Blackwell is enticing enough from the get-go, but the novel becomes a bonafide gothic page-turner the moment Oscar introduces lovesick Magnus to a voodoo priestess named Madam Simone. The blend of African, French, Spanish and Caribbean cultures on display feels palpable and timeless. The ensuing story belongs to Magnus and Jacob, but Weis and Astor have given Oscar far more than a cameo role. In fitting fashion for a literary icon, he’s got many of the book’s best lines (“God doesn’t save men. Men must save themselves. God merely shows them the way.”) Long-suffering Sussana Clark fans waiting for a sequel to Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell will relish Blackwell, which also serves as a perfect entry point for newcomers to the series.
This prequel to the Magnus Blackwell series by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor, authors of Death by the River, is a lush gaslamp thriller. The cinematic novel is filled with Victorian style, breathtaking period-specific architecture and a license for alternate history, such as the inclusion of Oscar Wilde. After befriending Magnus in New Orleans, Oscar declares him a man so obsessed with his greatness that he thinks he is above sin, citing him as the primary inspiration for his character Dorian Gray.
As love triangles go, Blackwell is enticing enough from the get-go, but the novel becomes a bonafide gothic page-turner the moment Oscar introduces lovesick Magnus to a voodoo priestess named Madam Simone. The blend of African, French, Spanish and Caribbean cultures on display feels palpable and timeless. The ensuing story belongs to Magnus and Jacob, but Weis and Astor have given Oscar far more than a cameo role. In fitting fashion for a literary icon, he’s got many of the book’s best lines (“God doesn’t save men. Men must save themselves. God merely shows them the way.”) Long-suffering Sussana Clark fans waiting for a sequel to Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell will relish Blackwell, which also serves as a perfect entry point for newcomers to the series.
April 20, 2019
I have read several of Alexandrea Weis's books and have enjoyed the variety and the spice that she adds to them. Blackwell has a bit different feel, but it reveals another facet of this author's talent. I think it feels different because the main backdrop of the story is not New Orleans, but indeed that city is showcased and influences a great deal of the action. This story is set in New England in the 1800's, which for me as a reader of Ms. Weis's work is different but none the less enjoyable.
The story starts as an unlikely friendship between the working class Jacob O'Conner and the wealthy Magnus Blackwell. Meeting in college, the odd pair strikes up an unusual friendship. Magnus is used to getting all of the things he wants in life, while Jacob has worked and struggled to achieve his dream of becoming an architect. Trouble brews when Magnus sets his sights on the lovely Frances, wanting to possess her but not marry her. Magnus is a man with a certain sexual appetite and a wandering eye, which Frances cannot abide. When she rebuffs him, Magnus' does not handle it well, especially when his friend, Jacob, asks her to marry.
To soothe his injured pride, Magnus takes a trip to New Orleans. There he is introduced to Oscar Wilde and the art of voodoo. Something in New Orleans takes hold of Magnus, and when he returns his ancestral under a cloud of questions and suspicions, he seeks to turn the manor into a replica of a Southern mansion. Hiring his old friend, Jacob to oversee renovations, Magnus monopolizes his life.
Seeking revenge for taking what Magnus believed should be his, he seeks to make Jacob and his bride miserable. Unforeseen events happen and the tables are turned in the end, and Jacob ends up vowing revenge on Magnus.
The book is well paced and the detailed storyline executed precisely. The characters are well fleshed out and the relationships well defined. The writing is flawless, as always, and the surprise ending leaves the reader wondering what more could be in store. - Reviewed by Karen
The story starts as an unlikely friendship between the working class Jacob O'Conner and the wealthy Magnus Blackwell. Meeting in college, the odd pair strikes up an unusual friendship. Magnus is used to getting all of the things he wants in life, while Jacob has worked and struggled to achieve his dream of becoming an architect. Trouble brews when Magnus sets his sights on the lovely Frances, wanting to possess her but not marry her. Magnus is a man with a certain sexual appetite and a wandering eye, which Frances cannot abide. When she rebuffs him, Magnus' does not handle it well, especially when his friend, Jacob, asks her to marry.
To soothe his injured pride, Magnus takes a trip to New Orleans. There he is introduced to Oscar Wilde and the art of voodoo. Something in New Orleans takes hold of Magnus, and when he returns his ancestral under a cloud of questions and suspicions, he seeks to turn the manor into a replica of a Southern mansion. Hiring his old friend, Jacob to oversee renovations, Magnus monopolizes his life.
Seeking revenge for taking what Magnus believed should be his, he seeks to make Jacob and his bride miserable. Unforeseen events happen and the tables are turned in the end, and Jacob ends up vowing revenge on Magnus.
The book is well paced and the detailed storyline executed precisely. The characters are well fleshed out and the relationships well defined. The writing is flawless, as always, and the surprise ending leaves the reader wondering what more could be in store. - Reviewed by Karen
March 28, 2019
I knew I had to read this after my eyes settled on the magnificent cover art and I read the blurb. I’ve also read other books by this writing team and enjoyed them.
How would I classify this? Historical thriller with a twist of naughty. It goes beyond the bedroom door a bit and I read those parts really fast. LOL They were necessary to really get to know Magnus.
Magnus? I wanted to like him in the beginning. Didn’t take long for that to change. He wouldn’t let me. Wouldn’t let anyone care for him. His own worst enemy. While in New Orleans, he meets the wild and somewhat depraved Oscar Wilde and thus begins his undoing. A warning to change his ways from a woman who practices voodoo doesn’t slow him down and his path is set.
Who I did like? Jacob. He was from the other side of the tracks. Not wealthy or privileged. His friendship with Magnus was a challenge. They couldn’t be more different and I hoped some of the goodness of Jacob would rub off on him. But, something came between their friendship and it was not to be.
As I drew closer to the end of the story, the tension grew, my dread of what might happen built. I wanted to slow things down, urge the two men to think first. They teetered on the brink of no return.
An explosive ending to a highly entertaining reading experience. Will I be continuing with this series? Surely.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
How would I classify this? Historical thriller with a twist of naughty. It goes beyond the bedroom door a bit and I read those parts really fast. LOL They were necessary to really get to know Magnus.
Magnus? I wanted to like him in the beginning. Didn’t take long for that to change. He wouldn’t let me. Wouldn’t let anyone care for him. His own worst enemy. While in New Orleans, he meets the wild and somewhat depraved Oscar Wilde and thus begins his undoing. A warning to change his ways from a woman who practices voodoo doesn’t slow him down and his path is set.
Who I did like? Jacob. He was from the other side of the tracks. Not wealthy or privileged. His friendship with Magnus was a challenge. They couldn’t be more different and I hoped some of the goodness of Jacob would rub off on him. But, something came between their friendship and it was not to be.
As I drew closer to the end of the story, the tension grew, my dread of what might happen built. I wanted to slow things down, urge the two men to think first. They teetered on the brink of no return.
An explosive ending to a highly entertaining reading experience. Will I be continuing with this series? Surely.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
February 4, 2019
I admired the attention the co-authors paid to historical detail and references. Examining characters, fashion, architecture, events, even collegiate life at Harvard and Radcliffe, and the underside of New Orleans culture (voodoo and brothels), brought this long-gone era to vivid life. These authors are quite talented at portraying character evolution, or as is the case here, character devolution. I didn't like some of the characters, but their actions and motives certainly did garner and maintain my attention. From the first introduction of Magnus Blackwell as a Harvard freshman, I thought that if only he had been born a century earlier he could have been a charter member of the Hellfire Club. Indeed, the novel's tag line reads: "Hell has a new master," and Blackwell certainly seems to have set out to be just that. But then, his life was the ruination of several other characters, so maybe he should be considered a Pied Piper, affecting adults rather than the children of Hamelin. Certainly if nothing else, his character is memorable, and so are those of Jacob O'Connor, the young student Magnus "adopts" as his pet protege (oh, how well Jacob learned), Oscar Wilde, the infamous English author, a New Orleans voodoo high priestess and brothel owner who ranks right up there with the late Marie Laveau, and all the secondary characters Magnus and Jacob manage to affect. The close attention to detail keeps the reader engrossed, whether or not said reader finds the characters admirable. Like viewing a train wreck, we can't turn away.
February 14, 2019
This is the second book I have read by this author duo. I have quickly became a fan. Warning as the books these authors co-write together are "dark". As a fan of "dark" books, I enjoy them. The other reasons that I have become a fan of this author duo is because the storylines are strong and the characters are very engaging.
I did not know that this book was the prequel to the Magnus Blackwell series. That is a good thing. It means that anyone new to this series like me can read this book and not feel like they missed anything by having not read the prior novels. This does not mean that I will not go back and pick up the prior books as I enjoyed this book so much.
Magnus and Jacob are the prime example of evil versus good. I am not talking just a little evil either. Magnus was the inspiration for the novel, Dorian Gray but worse. Can I just mention that these two authors work so well together that it was like there was one author writing as I could not tell where one left off and the next picked up. This book is a recommended read.
I did not know that this book was the prequel to the Magnus Blackwell series. That is a good thing. It means that anyone new to this series like me can read this book and not feel like they missed anything by having not read the prior novels. This does not mean that I will not go back and pick up the prior books as I enjoyed this book so much.
Magnus and Jacob are the prime example of evil versus good. I am not talking just a little evil either. Magnus was the inspiration for the novel, Dorian Gray but worse. Can I just mention that these two authors work so well together that it was like there was one author writing as I could not tell where one left off and the next picked up. This book is a recommended read.
December 5, 2019
4 Stars
Update 5th Dec 2019...
Just finished reading this book again- and I honestly think I enjoyed it more this time around. Enthralling. Creepy. Dark. Thrilling.
“Hell has a new Master”……..
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis, with Lucas Astor- is a gripping tale of jealousy, betrayal, and revenge. It is set in Boston and New Orleans in the 1800’s; it’s a time and place where a person of means could get away with anything. The story is a historical thriller, with supernatural/paranormal elements- in the vein of Dorian Grey/The Picture of Dorian Grey.
Jacob O’Connor meets Magnus Blackwell on the first day at Harvard. Both are studying Architecture, but come from vastly different worlds. Magnus comes from very old money and a life of utter privilege- never wanting for anything in his life, whatever he wants he gets- his good looks, wealth and family name granting him considerable advantages, unavailable to most. The Blackwell family were practically New England royalty and Magnus exploited this fact quite regularly. Jacob on the other hand, was orphaned at a very young age and has had none of the privileges afforded to Magnus. Jacob was lucky to come to the notice of his mentor, a well-respected architect in Boston, who took Jacob under his wing and helped him gain a scholarship to attend Harvard. He has struggled and worked very hard to get where he is. The unlikely pair became firm friends, what began as a somewhat casual acquaintance quickly grew into a steadfast friendship.
Then Frances McGee enters the picture. She is beautiful, smart and spirited- with a brash and witty personality. Men were charmed by her and Magnus was no exception. She was everything he had ever wanted….. and more. He would have her, at any cost. Problem was Magnus’s reputation as a ladies man and his ‘tastes’ when it came to the bedroom. Frances was a ‘proper’ young lady who was not going to be just another one of his conquests. She was saving herself for marriage. Magnus cast her aside in the hope that it would shock her into giving him what he wanted. Instead, she and Jacob struck up a friendship, fell in love and married.
Magnus was devastated, which soon turned to seething anger and jealousy. Darkness coursed through his veins, poisoning his heart and mind. He became quite bitter and twisted. Magnus was out for revenge, no matter the cost.
Needing to get away for a while, Magnus takes a trip to New Orleans and finds himself thrust into a world of debauchery and wickedness. Immersed in a culture of Voodoo, he arms himself with the forbidden power of black magic and heads back to Boston to seek his vengeance. What happens when he gets there? You really will have to read it and find out, I don’t want to spoil it for you by giving away too much.
This story has so much going on in it. The historical facts are really very interesting, especially to do with voodoo and its rituals; and also all the architectural history and references. The authors painted such a rich and vivid picture of Boston and New Orleans, and in such exquisite detail- I was completely immersed in the story.
They explored some intriguing ideas, such as Oscar Wilde getting his inspiration for Dorian Grey from meeting Magnus; and then they injected voodoo and various supernatural details into the storyline, which was pure genius; the characters had such passionate personalities and held such a powerful presence on the page, they were truly fascinating in all their wonderfully flawed glory. Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor are gifted authors, who choreographed the complex and multilayered plot flawlessly. Also managing to capture the emotional toll that the whole saga had on the characters- what jealousy, vengeance and depravity can do to a person’s psyche, and just how far someone is willing to go to get what they want and the price they are prepared to pay to do so.
So thrilling, intense and suspenseful- I loved the twist and spin that the authors put into it; I really wasn’t expecting that at all! I loved it!
Thank you Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor
Update 5th Dec 2019...
Just finished reading this book again- and I honestly think I enjoyed it more this time around. Enthralling. Creepy. Dark. Thrilling.
“Hell has a new Master”……..
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis, with Lucas Astor- is a gripping tale of jealousy, betrayal, and revenge. It is set in Boston and New Orleans in the 1800’s; it’s a time and place where a person of means could get away with anything. The story is a historical thriller, with supernatural/paranormal elements- in the vein of Dorian Grey/The Picture of Dorian Grey.
Jacob O’Connor meets Magnus Blackwell on the first day at Harvard. Both are studying Architecture, but come from vastly different worlds. Magnus comes from very old money and a life of utter privilege- never wanting for anything in his life, whatever he wants he gets- his good looks, wealth and family name granting him considerable advantages, unavailable to most. The Blackwell family were practically New England royalty and Magnus exploited this fact quite regularly. Jacob on the other hand, was orphaned at a very young age and has had none of the privileges afforded to Magnus. Jacob was lucky to come to the notice of his mentor, a well-respected architect in Boston, who took Jacob under his wing and helped him gain a scholarship to attend Harvard. He has struggled and worked very hard to get where he is. The unlikely pair became firm friends, what began as a somewhat casual acquaintance quickly grew into a steadfast friendship.
Then Frances McGee enters the picture. She is beautiful, smart and spirited- with a brash and witty personality. Men were charmed by her and Magnus was no exception. She was everything he had ever wanted….. and more. He would have her, at any cost. Problem was Magnus’s reputation as a ladies man and his ‘tastes’ when it came to the bedroom. Frances was a ‘proper’ young lady who was not going to be just another one of his conquests. She was saving herself for marriage. Magnus cast her aside in the hope that it would shock her into giving him what he wanted. Instead, she and Jacob struck up a friendship, fell in love and married.
Magnus was devastated, which soon turned to seething anger and jealousy. Darkness coursed through his veins, poisoning his heart and mind. He became quite bitter and twisted. Magnus was out for revenge, no matter the cost.
Needing to get away for a while, Magnus takes a trip to New Orleans and finds himself thrust into a world of debauchery and wickedness. Immersed in a culture of Voodoo, he arms himself with the forbidden power of black magic and heads back to Boston to seek his vengeance. What happens when he gets there? You really will have to read it and find out, I don’t want to spoil it for you by giving away too much.
This story has so much going on in it. The historical facts are really very interesting, especially to do with voodoo and its rituals; and also all the architectural history and references. The authors painted such a rich and vivid picture of Boston and New Orleans, and in such exquisite detail- I was completely immersed in the story.
They explored some intriguing ideas, such as Oscar Wilde getting his inspiration for Dorian Grey from meeting Magnus; and then they injected voodoo and various supernatural details into the storyline, which was pure genius; the characters had such passionate personalities and held such a powerful presence on the page, they were truly fascinating in all their wonderfully flawed glory. Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor are gifted authors, who choreographed the complex and multilayered plot flawlessly. Also managing to capture the emotional toll that the whole saga had on the characters- what jealousy, vengeance and depravity can do to a person’s psyche, and just how far someone is willing to go to get what they want and the price they are prepared to pay to do so.
So thrilling, intense and suspenseful- I loved the twist and spin that the authors put into it; I really wasn’t expecting that at all! I loved it!
Thank you Ms. Weis and Mr. Astor
February 7, 2017
This book was utterly captivating from the first line. I loved the fact that this was set in an era that I adore. The writing style had all the flair of a classic, yet remained fresh and current from beginning to end.
First of all, let me express how torn I am by the fact that I loved and loathed Magnus from beginning to end, and as much as I despised some of his choices, there was a part of me that secretly prayed he'd turn over a new leaf. But in old Blackwell style, he allowed the ugliness of his deep rooted hatred come to the surface. And then there was Jacob O'Connor. How I rooted for the young man who came from nothing. He was everything that Magnus wasn't, which added to my dilemma of being stuck between the two.
This book was cleverly written. Set in Boston and New Orleans, I was spellbound by the narrative. It reminded me of one of those old classics and I kept telling myself that Magnus reminded me of Oscar Wilde's Dorian Gray, and then WHAM, Oscar Wilde was introduced to us in New Orleans and it was like falling in love all over again.
The dark gothic themes of repression, fear, psychology & theology, intertwined with intelligent prose, drama and moments of beauty, made for not only an enjoyable read but a reading experience that has left me thirsty for more. With Voodoo, dark sexual desires, anger, vengeance, despair and an ending that left me in a total book hangover, Weis and Astor delivered a book that is worth more than 5 stars.
I thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates the classics and a take on literature that is rarely seen today.
*I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.*
First of all, let me express how torn I am by the fact that I loved and loathed Magnus from beginning to end, and as much as I despised some of his choices, there was a part of me that secretly prayed he'd turn over a new leaf. But in old Blackwell style, he allowed the ugliness of his deep rooted hatred come to the surface. And then there was Jacob O'Connor. How I rooted for the young man who came from nothing. He was everything that Magnus wasn't, which added to my dilemma of being stuck between the two.
This book was cleverly written. Set in Boston and New Orleans, I was spellbound by the narrative. It reminded me of one of those old classics and I kept telling myself that Magnus reminded me of Oscar Wilde's Dorian Gray, and then WHAM, Oscar Wilde was introduced to us in New Orleans and it was like falling in love all over again.
The dark gothic themes of repression, fear, psychology & theology, intertwined with intelligent prose, drama and moments of beauty, made for not only an enjoyable read but a reading experience that has left me thirsty for more. With Voodoo, dark sexual desires, anger, vengeance, despair and an ending that left me in a total book hangover, Weis and Astor delivered a book that is worth more than 5 stars.
I thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates the classics and a take on literature that is rarely seen today.
*I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.*
November 17, 2016
Full of suspense at every turn. The angst built at several pivotal moments. The characters showed strength and weaknesses at the same time. I loved the storyline and was caught up in the directions it took me and the fact that the author incorporated real characters into the plot. Well done indeed! I cannot wait to read more! I was gifted this amazing book at my request to the author.
February 10, 2017
Such a twisted plot and great main characters. I usually stick to the mystery and thriller genre but the supernatural element of Blackwell sucked me in. Loved it!
March 31, 2019
Well...not sure what to think. Apparently Blackwell is the first of a series of novels featuring the character of Magnus Blackwell, in the later years of the 19th and presumably 20th century. Blackwell, a rich ne'er-do-well, attends Harvard, where he meets Jacob, a poor student admitted on scholarship to study architecture.
Their unlikely friendship eventually deteriorates, after Blackwell discards a woman he feels he is destined to possess, a woman his friend Jacob eventually marries....thus setting the stage for voodoo, magic, and revenge, after Magnus travels of New Orleans, and becomes briefly involved with voodoo, murdering a High Priestess, and stealing her loa cane/stick...
The book is marketed as historical fiction, which is as accurate a label as any. Magnus appears a larger than life character, with little regard for anything or anyone other than gratifying his needs and desires. I'm certainly not a prude, but the descriptions of Magnus' penchant for sodomy.....
I don't know if I'll read any other novels in this series....there appears to be at least 2 other books....
Their unlikely friendship eventually deteriorates, after Blackwell discards a woman he feels he is destined to possess, a woman his friend Jacob eventually marries....thus setting the stage for voodoo, magic, and revenge, after Magnus travels of New Orleans, and becomes briefly involved with voodoo, murdering a High Priestess, and stealing her loa cane/stick...
The book is marketed as historical fiction, which is as accurate a label as any. Magnus appears a larger than life character, with little regard for anything or anyone other than gratifying his needs and desires. I'm certainly not a prude, but the descriptions of Magnus' penchant for sodomy.....
I don't know if I'll read any other novels in this series....there appears to be at least 2 other books....
February 5, 2017
Never fight over a woman. That is one of the main lessons learned in this stunning gothic tale of romance and revenge. And if your adversary is the charismatic, enigmatic Magnus Blackwell, well, think twice and perhaps choose another woman! At the heart of this page-turning thrill ride is a man of mystery, Magnus Blackwell, born into wealth and power. Magnus is gorgeous and magnetic, well-versed in the ways of charming both men and women to do his bidding. And he always gets what he wants...well, almost always, because it is his best friend, Jacob O'Connor who wins the prize of a lifetime, the woman both Magnus and Jacob love. Jacob is a working class boy with little money to call his own, the total opposite of Magnus, and when he meets Magnus at Harvard, a bizarre friendship is struck that has major repercussions for everyone they come in contact with throughout the story. Enter one lovely woman named Frances, who proceeds to capture both their hearts, and you have the ingredients for a story of love, lust, greed, power and vengeance. With amazingly rich characters and lushly descriptive locations, "Blackwell" is both chilling and atmospheric as we follow the three intertwined lives into some very treacherous places, including the backwoods of New Orleans where a voodoo priestess unwittingly gives Magnus more power than he ever thought imaginable. Without giving too much away, suffice it to say that this book will hook the reader from the moment Magnus appears on the page, and it doesn't let up all the way through to an utterly shocking ending that pulled a twist even this jaded reader wasn't expecting. The characters are unforgettable, the writing is top-notch, and the story is hauntingly original. This is a book you will want to make last and last, but end up devouring in two or three sittings. And it will definitely leave you wanting more.
February 7, 2017
Blackwell: A Magnus Blackwell Novel by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor receives 4 stars from me. This book is the first installment in The Magnus Blackwell Series. Our book opens in 1886 with Magnus Blackwell meeting Jacob O’Connor at the Massachusetts Hall in Harvard University. Magnus is the first and only friend Jacob makes while going to college. They click instantly with Magnus loving Jacobs refreshing mindset that Magnus does not usually get within the rich circle. Their unlikely friendship is not something that is easily approved. There are few similarities between the two, Magus is rich and comes from a wealthy well known family. Jacob is a poor orphan on scholarship for the Architect program. Magnus is here because he must not for any desire of his own, his rebellious nature doesn't end with school. No, Magnus is a charmer for any lady. Whether she be married, single, or simply off limits. That is until Frances McGee, Magnus is smitten almost immediately with Frances. She is smart, witty, and fierce. Magnus has never been fully attractive to a woman like he is with Frances, his “Frannie”. After courting her for sometime he knows he is “in love” as much as a man like Magnus could be in love. Unfortunately when Frannie wants marriage and Magnus just wants a physical relationship it is over between the two. Months later Frannie and Jacob start a friendship that turns out to be more. Jacob and Frannie become married which puts a strain on Magnus and Jacobs friendship. To escape it all Magnus flees to New Orleans (Frannies favorite place) and changes almost over night. Armed with the knowledge of voodoo and an agenda of vengeance he sets out to win Frannie back from Jacob.
February 4, 2017
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis is a standalone book written in several points of views. The book is paranormal, historical, a thriller and slightly dark. Magnus Blackwell is a rich mans son who befriends Jacob O'Connor who is an orphan. They meet at Harvard and become friends instantly. Soon a woman named Francis comes into their lives Magnus wants her but Jacob ultimately gets her. Magnus takes a trip to New Orleans to seek solace. While there he begins a friendship with Oscar Wilde. Oscar gets the inspiration for His infamous book Dorian Gray. Magnus now armed with dangerous voodoo magic sets his sights on getting Francis back whatever the cost. This book was so unlike anything I have read to date. It was dark and the voodoo stuff is very freaky. I know it's not something I personally would be interested in messing with ha! Naturally when you have voodoo you have ghosts and spirits so even though I don't know much about it I found it interesting and a bit spooky. I really didn't see any of it coming and even said wow crazy a couple of times. I found the book to be well written and interesting. There is a lot of history and historical references. I really like the mention of the Voodoo queen Marie laveau. I Once I was 50% in I flew through it in no time. I can't say I have a favorite character because ultimately I think they were all a little messed up haha. I enjoyed this book a lot though. And would recommend to those who like dark and historical books. 4 star rating.
April 1, 2019
*I received an ecopy of this book via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review*
Rating: 1 star.
**dnf at 51% through. I could not do this!
Why I DNFed this?
The characters were so flat and inconsistent and I hated the mc guy with a passion. Like.. reading from his pov made me physically ill. The story was also not as interesting as I've expected from the synopsis. The writing was good, but not good enough to save this book for me.
It's also so tragic that the main reason I got interested in this book in the first place was knowing that Oscar Wilde is a character in the book, but reading this almost made me hate him, my fave author. So, this will be a pass for me. Thank u, next!
Rating: 1 star.
**dnf at 51% through. I could not do this!
Why I DNFed this?
The characters were so flat and inconsistent and I hated the mc guy with a passion. Like.. reading from his pov made me physically ill. The story was also not as interesting as I've expected from the synopsis. The writing was good, but not good enough to save this book for me.
It's also so tragic that the main reason I got interested in this book in the first place was knowing that Oscar Wilde is a character in the book, but reading this almost made me hate him, my fave author. So, this will be a pass for me. Thank u, next!
January 30, 2017
Unique
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor is a fast paced book that takes place in the 1800s and follows Jacob O’Connor and Magnus Blackwell. Jacob and Magnus first meet while Jacob is studying architecture at Harvard and form an unusual friendship, one is poor one is rich one is outgoing one quite and reserved. Their friendship grows quickly “Magnus had become everything to Jacob” but soon a woman,Frances, comes between them and Magnus is left feeling bitter, angry, deceived and looking for revenge “Harboring such a need for revenge isn’t healthy” “It is to me, dear boy, It is what I live for”. Magnus decides he needs to get away from Frances and Jacob so he take a trip into New Orleans where he meets a man who introduces him a voodoo priestess. To help with this revenge Magnus turn to voodoo magic and his anger while sets forth a series of events that will change both of their lives.
Books with a historical setting usually are not my cup of tea but throw in some magic and I'll give it a shot. This book was mysterious, angry, vindictive,dark,magical, very well written, captivating and very descriptive. The story and characters will have you hooked from the very beginning. I had a hard time putting it down and finished half of it in just one sitting. I recommend to readers looking for something a little different than their normal reads. I do recommend all readers be over 18 due to adult content and graphic violence. I give this book 4 stars.
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor is a fast paced book that takes place in the 1800s and follows Jacob O’Connor and Magnus Blackwell. Jacob and Magnus first meet while Jacob is studying architecture at Harvard and form an unusual friendship, one is poor one is rich one is outgoing one quite and reserved. Their friendship grows quickly “Magnus had become everything to Jacob” but soon a woman,Frances, comes between them and Magnus is left feeling bitter, angry, deceived and looking for revenge “Harboring such a need for revenge isn’t healthy” “It is to me, dear boy, It is what I live for”. Magnus decides he needs to get away from Frances and Jacob so he take a trip into New Orleans where he meets a man who introduces him a voodoo priestess. To help with this revenge Magnus turn to voodoo magic and his anger while sets forth a series of events that will change both of their lives.
Books with a historical setting usually are not my cup of tea but throw in some magic and I'll give it a shot. This book was mysterious, angry, vindictive,dark,magical, very well written, captivating and very descriptive. The story and characters will have you hooked from the very beginning. I had a hard time putting it down and finished half of it in just one sitting. I recommend to readers looking for something a little different than their normal reads. I do recommend all readers be over 18 due to adult content and graphic violence. I give this book 4 stars.
February 5, 2017
5 stars
Blackwell (A Magnus Blackwell Novel) by Alexandria Weis and Lucas Astor
I honestly don’t even know where to begin with this story. We meet Magnus Blackwell and Jacob O’Connor when they are both starting architectural school at Harvard in the late 1800’s. Blackwell strikes up a friendship with O’Connor and basically gets him to do his bidding for him whenever he wants. Of course like a lot of friendships, a relationship came between them for a time. Enter Frances they woman they both love, and the reason for Magnus turning cold towards O’Connor. Through this book we look at things mostly through Blackwell’s point of view and how he is feeling about things, but there are a few different times that we get to see things from O’Connors point of view as well. Things are not easy for either of the men through this book, O’Connor is because he isn’t from a wealthy family like Blackwell, and Blackwell, well thats because he makes it hard on himself. When people try to help Magnus he tends to do the opposite of what they suggest, but thats also a common thing people do. Where as O’Connor takes help when he needs it. This book kept me on the edge of my seat and kept me wanting more. I hope that if you take the time to read this book that you love it as much as I did. I know that I will definitely be reading more from both of these authors in the future.
Blackwell (A Magnus Blackwell Novel) by Alexandria Weis and Lucas Astor
I honestly don’t even know where to begin with this story. We meet Magnus Blackwell and Jacob O’Connor when they are both starting architectural school at Harvard in the late 1800’s. Blackwell strikes up a friendship with O’Connor and basically gets him to do his bidding for him whenever he wants. Of course like a lot of friendships, a relationship came between them for a time. Enter Frances they woman they both love, and the reason for Magnus turning cold towards O’Connor. Through this book we look at things mostly through Blackwell’s point of view and how he is feeling about things, but there are a few different times that we get to see things from O’Connors point of view as well. Things are not easy for either of the men through this book, O’Connor is because he isn’t from a wealthy family like Blackwell, and Blackwell, well thats because he makes it hard on himself. When people try to help Magnus he tends to do the opposite of what they suggest, but thats also a common thing people do. Where as O’Connor takes help when he needs it. This book kept me on the edge of my seat and kept me wanting more. I hope that if you take the time to read this book that you love it as much as I did. I know that I will definitely be reading more from both of these authors in the future.
February 5, 2017
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis
5/5 Stars
This is my first time reading a book by Alexandrea Weis. And let me tell ya, it definitely will not be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed it, from beginning to the very end! It's a very compelling story. Very well written and a ton of twists and turns. You never know which way the story is going.
In this story, you meet two totally different young men...Who couldn't be anymore different from one another. One was born into money, the other doesn't have a cent to his name.
Magnus Blackwell is good looking, wealthy and not to mention, very smart and bright. He gets what he wants, he doesn't stop until he gets it.. ever!! He is envious of many. Men want to be him and women want to be with him. He is, a man you truly love to hate!!
Jacob O’ Connor is an orphan. He is a kind, nice and gentle soul. But he doesn't have a single penny to his name. He gets a scholarship to attend Harvard. Where here meets Magnus.
They form a unique and odd friendship. Their bond is almost immediate. They have classes together and spend a lot of their free time together as well. But their friendship is tested.. when a woman gets in between them.
Will their friendship last, even if they both are out for vengeance??
This is a story about friendship, love and revenge. You have to read it to see what happens. I can't wait to read what happens next. I'm so looking for to read the next Blackwell series.
5/5 Stars
This is my first time reading a book by Alexandrea Weis. And let me tell ya, it definitely will not be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed it, from beginning to the very end! It's a very compelling story. Very well written and a ton of twists and turns. You never know which way the story is going.
In this story, you meet two totally different young men...Who couldn't be anymore different from one another. One was born into money, the other doesn't have a cent to his name.
Magnus Blackwell is good looking, wealthy and not to mention, very smart and bright. He gets what he wants, he doesn't stop until he gets it.. ever!! He is envious of many. Men want to be him and women want to be with him. He is, a man you truly love to hate!!
Jacob O’ Connor is an orphan. He is a kind, nice and gentle soul. But he doesn't have a single penny to his name. He gets a scholarship to attend Harvard. Where here meets Magnus.
They form a unique and odd friendship. Their bond is almost immediate. They have classes together and spend a lot of their free time together as well. But their friendship is tested.. when a woman gets in between them.
Will their friendship last, even if they both are out for vengeance??
This is a story about friendship, love and revenge. You have to read it to see what happens. I can't wait to read what happens next. I'm so looking for to read the next Blackwell series.
January 10, 2017
Susan reviewed on behalf of Mytimeoutbookblog
I give Blackwell 5 stars. The suspense hooks you in, the steamy scenes make you want to continue, but the characters and their stories drive you to the end.
Alexandrea Weis has written a very good story with lots of suspense, steamy scenes, and great characters, a love triangle gone very wrong.
Magnus Blackwell is handsome, wealthy, and the envy of all. After meeting Jacob at Harvard, an unlikely friendship began. Magnus wants the girl, but Jacob gets the girl. Devastated, he leaves for New Orleans, becomes involved in a world of brutality. Magnus embarks on an evil path to destroy Jacob and get the girl back. Can he see the error of his ways before it's too late?
Jacob O'Connor is an orphan who, with hard work, managed to get a full scholarship at Harvard to study architecture. On his first day he meets Magnus, and they become friends even though their lives could not be any more different. He meets and gets involved with the woman that Magnus wants as his own. Will she stay with him?
Blackwell is a suspenseful dark romance novel. There are many steamy scenes, and some very morbid thought processes, but the story is definitely interesting and the characters are fantastic.
I really enjoyed this book, and one must remember that revenge is a dish best served cold.
I give Blackwell 5 stars. The suspense hooks you in, the steamy scenes make you want to continue, but the characters and their stories drive you to the end.
Alexandrea Weis has written a very good story with lots of suspense, steamy scenes, and great characters, a love triangle gone very wrong.
Magnus Blackwell is handsome, wealthy, and the envy of all. After meeting Jacob at Harvard, an unlikely friendship began. Magnus wants the girl, but Jacob gets the girl. Devastated, he leaves for New Orleans, becomes involved in a world of brutality. Magnus embarks on an evil path to destroy Jacob and get the girl back. Can he see the error of his ways before it's too late?
Jacob O'Connor is an orphan who, with hard work, managed to get a full scholarship at Harvard to study architecture. On his first day he meets Magnus, and they become friends even though their lives could not be any more different. He meets and gets involved with the woman that Magnus wants as his own. Will she stay with him?
Blackwell is a suspenseful dark romance novel. There are many steamy scenes, and some very morbid thought processes, but the story is definitely interesting and the characters are fantastic.
I really enjoyed this book, and one must remember that revenge is a dish best served cold.
February 6, 2017
1.5 Stars
Full Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via NetGalley. This has not influenced my review.*
This book started off promising—great writing, a historical setting I had never read about before (late 1800s New England and New Orleans), seemingly interesting characters—but it went downhill from there.
I loved that this book had a villain as the main character because that’s a rare thing to find. He wasn’t some sympathetic, secretly-a-good-guy flop of a villain either; he was despicable. And even though he didn’t have the best childhood/past, it was never used as some tragic excuse for his behavior. Unfortunately, that was pretty much the only thing I ended up liking.
The main problem was Magnus’s character. For one thing, he was inconsistent—happy for his friend, wants revenge on his friend, loves the girl, just wants to bed the girl, motivated by obsession, motivated by revenge… His leap from typical douche bag to vengeful psychopath was also kind of sudden.
He was also too unrealistically open. Upon meeting Oscar and Madam Simone, he told them all about how he wanted revenge on his best friend for marrying the girl he wanted and discussed his preferences for a specific type of sex. The next day he told his whole life story to Oscar, all about how his father constantly told him he’d be a failure, how he hasn’t felt anything since his mother died, etc. Most people don’t open up about their emotional scars to acquaintances.
Most importantly though, if you’re going to make your main character a terrible, unlikeable person, he needs to be interesting, and Magnus just fell flat to me in that regard.
There was also this whole Oscar Wilde aspect (he was an actual character in the book), but it felt off. I didn’t understand why they so suddenly became friends. And Oscar’s character was either extremely stupid or extremely brave because he knew how vengeful and psychopathic Magnus was, yet not only did he remain friends with him, he also constantly called him out on the terrible things he did and then told him that Dorian Gray was based on him. I don’t know about you, but I’d be insulted if Dorian Grey was based after me, and insulting a murderous psychopath seems like a really bad idea.
Speaking of which, there was also this one whole scene in which Magnus had a dinner party with Oscar, Jacob, Frances, and others, and they all started blatantly talking about Magnus being a terrible person, and it just seemed strange. Characters seemed to behave oddly in general.
The death investigation didn’t seem realistic either. One cop casually questioned one person and immediately decided, *SPOILER ALERT* *END SPOILER ALERT*
As for the plot, it was slow-paced and took a long time for anything to really happen. The book seemed like more of a setup for future books. And the ending was kind of sudden with one of the characters acting in a way that was very unlike him. Maybe his behavior was supposed to be explained by the voodoo, but the voodoo hardly even had any part in the book. I’m not even sure what genre to call this since there was a lot of talk of voodoo but not much to show for it. But I’m guessing future books will probably be more paranormal.
Lastly, this is not a negative thing, but I want to mention that this book is not for the faint of heart. There was *TRIGGER WARNING* *END TRIGGER WARNING* You’ve been warned.
So overall I was really excited about having a legitimate, despicable villain as a protagonist, but he ended up feeling flat and inconsistent, and the slow-moving story felt more like a setup and just didn’t grip me.
Recommended For:
Anyone who wants to read about a truly despicable villain as a protagonist, who likes slow-paced, suspenseful plots, and who doesn't mind the things I mentioned that bothered me.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Full Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via NetGalley. This has not influenced my review.*
This book started off promising—great writing, a historical setting I had never read about before (late 1800s New England and New Orleans), seemingly interesting characters—but it went downhill from there.
I loved that this book had a villain as the main character because that’s a rare thing to find. He wasn’t some sympathetic, secretly-a-good-guy flop of a villain either; he was despicable. And even though he didn’t have the best childhood/past, it was never used as some tragic excuse for his behavior. Unfortunately, that was pretty much the only thing I ended up liking.
The main problem was Magnus’s character. For one thing, he was inconsistent—happy for his friend, wants revenge on his friend, loves the girl, just wants to bed the girl, motivated by obsession, motivated by revenge… His leap from typical douche bag to vengeful psychopath was also kind of sudden.
He was also too unrealistically open. Upon meeting Oscar and Madam Simone, he told them all about how he wanted revenge on his best friend for marrying the girl he wanted and discussed his preferences for a specific type of sex. The next day he told his whole life story to Oscar, all about how his father constantly told him he’d be a failure, how he hasn’t felt anything since his mother died, etc. Most people don’t open up about their emotional scars to acquaintances.
Most importantly though, if you’re going to make your main character a terrible, unlikeable person, he needs to be interesting, and Magnus just fell flat to me in that regard.
There was also this whole Oscar Wilde aspect (he was an actual character in the book), but it felt off. I didn’t understand why they so suddenly became friends. And Oscar’s character was either extremely stupid or extremely brave because he knew how vengeful and psychopathic Magnus was, yet not only did he remain friends with him, he also constantly called him out on the terrible things he did and then told him that Dorian Gray was based on him. I don’t know about you, but I’d be insulted if Dorian Grey was based after me, and insulting a murderous psychopath seems like a really bad idea.
Speaking of which, there was also this one whole scene in which Magnus had a dinner party with Oscar, Jacob, Frances, and others, and they all started blatantly talking about Magnus being a terrible person, and it just seemed strange. Characters seemed to behave oddly in general.
The death investigation didn’t seem realistic either. One cop casually questioned one person and immediately decided, *SPOILER ALERT* *END SPOILER ALERT*
As for the plot, it was slow-paced and took a long time for anything to really happen. The book seemed like more of a setup for future books. And the ending was kind of sudden with one of the characters acting in a way that was very unlike him. Maybe his behavior was supposed to be explained by the voodoo, but the voodoo hardly even had any part in the book. I’m not even sure what genre to call this since there was a lot of talk of voodoo but not much to show for it. But I’m guessing future books will probably be more paranormal.
Lastly, this is not a negative thing, but I want to mention that this book is not for the faint of heart. There was *TRIGGER WARNING* *END TRIGGER WARNING* You’ve been warned.
So overall I was really excited about having a legitimate, despicable villain as a protagonist, but he ended up feeling flat and inconsistent, and the slow-moving story felt more like a setup and just didn’t grip me.
Recommended For:
Anyone who wants to read about a truly despicable villain as a protagonist, who likes slow-paced, suspenseful plots, and who doesn't mind the things I mentioned that bothered me.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
January 12, 2019
It's kind of difficult to classify this book. Part historical fiction, part Gothic novel, and part psychological thriller is the best I can do.
Wealthy Magnus Blackwell befriends scholarship student Joseph O'Connor when they are both freshmen in Harvard's architecture program. Magnus is obsessed with Frances, one of the women at the new Radcliffe College, and is determined to have her for his own. Frances decides she isn't interested in Magnus. However, because Joseph is Magnus' friend, she has gotten to know him ... and the two fall in love and are married.
Magnus pretends he's fine with it all ... but he isn't. He decamps to New Orleans, Frances' favorite city, and lives there for a while. He meets Oscar Wilde, as yet unknown, and Wilde introduces him to the more sordid elements of the Crescent City. Magnus also becomes obsessed with voodoo, and obtains an important tool, a baton juju, from one of the voodoo priestesses via nefarious means. He is determined that it will help him win Frances back.
It almost goes without saying that Magnus becomes the inspiration for The Picture of Dorian Gray.
The book is well-researched across a variety of subjects, and is a real page-turner. One of the challenges is that its hard to tell just how much time has passed between, and sometimes within, chapters. I understand this is an introductory tale for a series, but it would have been nice to figure out whether it was three years or 20 that this book covered.
Wealthy Magnus Blackwell befriends scholarship student Joseph O'Connor when they are both freshmen in Harvard's architecture program. Magnus is obsessed with Frances, one of the women at the new Radcliffe College, and is determined to have her for his own. Frances decides she isn't interested in Magnus. However, because Joseph is Magnus' friend, she has gotten to know him ... and the two fall in love and are married.
Magnus pretends he's fine with it all ... but he isn't. He decamps to New Orleans, Frances' favorite city, and lives there for a while. He meets Oscar Wilde, as yet unknown, and Wilde introduces him to the more sordid elements of the Crescent City. Magnus also becomes obsessed with voodoo, and obtains an important tool, a baton juju, from one of the voodoo priestesses via nefarious means. He is determined that it will help him win Frances back.
It almost goes without saying that Magnus becomes the inspiration for The Picture of Dorian Gray.
The book is well-researched across a variety of subjects, and is a real page-turner. One of the challenges is that its hard to tell just how much time has passed between, and sometimes within, chapters. I understand this is an introductory tale for a series, but it would have been nice to figure out whether it was three years or 20 that this book covered.
June 4, 2017
BLACKWELL (book 1) by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 17, 2017
Hell has a new master
In the late 1800s, handsome, wealthy New Englander, Magnus Blackwell, is the envy of all.
When Magnus meets Jacob O’Conner—a Harvard student from the working class—an unlikely friendship is forged. But their close bond is soon challenged by a captivating woman; a woman Magnus wants, but Jacob gets.
Devastated, Magnus seeks solace in a trip to New Orleans. After a chance meeting with Oscar Wilde, he becomes immersed in a world of depravity and brutality, inevitably becoming the inspiration for Dorian Gray. Armed with the forbidden magic of voodoo, he sets his sights on winning back the woman Jacob stole from him.
Amid the trappings of Victorian society, two men, bent on revenge, will lay the foundation for a curse that will forever alter their destinies.
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: BLACKWELL book 1 is the first installment in Alexandrea Weis/ Lucas Astor’s slightly dark, Victorian, paranormal series focusing on jealousy, revenge, betrayal and magic.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Magnus Blackwell and Jacob O’Connor) covering a timeline of several years, BLACKWELL focuses on the friendship and betrayal between college friends Blackwell and O’Connor.
Magnus Blackwell comes from money; a spoiled, rich young man who takes what he wants, one way or another. A man with a dark side, and a darker need for violating the woman in his care Magnus Blackwell will lose the one woman he cannot have to the man he believes owes him his career and his life. Jacob O’Connor was orphaned at an early age, and through his mentor was accepted into Harvard and graduated with a degree in Architecture only to discover that his friendship with Magnus Blackwell proved to be more dangerous than not. Jacob will fall in love with the woman Magnus tossed aside, and in the ensuing years Magnus would devise a plan to destroy the man he once called a friend.
BLACKWELL is a slow building story line; set in New Orleans, Louisiana; steeped in magic, spirits and the practice of voodoo; betrayal, murder, discovery and revenge. Two friends, one woman and years to plan his retribution, Magnus Blackwell is a man possessed by anger, evil and a dark, foreboding malevolence that is focused on avenging the loss of the only woman that called to his heart. Jacob O’Connor will get his retribution by destroying everyone that gets in his way including the man who has been the focus of his anger and grief.
Alexandrea Weis pulls the reader into a dark and fated tale of catastrophic jealousy; of one man’s overwhelming anger and need to destroy and break the only friend that he has ever known. The premise is intriguing, thrilling and suspenseful; the characters are passionate in their desires and pathways to revenge. BLACKWELL is a tragic tale of jealousy and love; of betrayal and revenge; of dramatic and questionable journey of vengeance.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 17, 2017
Hell has a new master
In the late 1800s, handsome, wealthy New Englander, Magnus Blackwell, is the envy of all.
When Magnus meets Jacob O’Conner—a Harvard student from the working class—an unlikely friendship is forged. But their close bond is soon challenged by a captivating woman; a woman Magnus wants, but Jacob gets.
Devastated, Magnus seeks solace in a trip to New Orleans. After a chance meeting with Oscar Wilde, he becomes immersed in a world of depravity and brutality, inevitably becoming the inspiration for Dorian Gray. Armed with the forbidden magic of voodoo, he sets his sights on winning back the woman Jacob stole from him.
Amid the trappings of Victorian society, two men, bent on revenge, will lay the foundation for a curse that will forever alter their destinies.
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: BLACKWELL book 1 is the first installment in Alexandrea Weis/ Lucas Astor’s slightly dark, Victorian, paranormal series focusing on jealousy, revenge, betrayal and magic.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Magnus Blackwell and Jacob O’Connor) covering a timeline of several years, BLACKWELL focuses on the friendship and betrayal between college friends Blackwell and O’Connor.
Magnus Blackwell comes from money; a spoiled, rich young man who takes what he wants, one way or another. A man with a dark side, and a darker need for violating the woman in his care Magnus Blackwell will lose the one woman he cannot have to the man he believes owes him his career and his life. Jacob O’Connor was orphaned at an early age, and through his mentor was accepted into Harvard and graduated with a degree in Architecture only to discover that his friendship with Magnus Blackwell proved to be more dangerous than not. Jacob will fall in love with the woman Magnus tossed aside, and in the ensuing years Magnus would devise a plan to destroy the man he once called a friend.
BLACKWELL is a slow building story line; set in New Orleans, Louisiana; steeped in magic, spirits and the practice of voodoo; betrayal, murder, discovery and revenge. Two friends, one woman and years to plan his retribution, Magnus Blackwell is a man possessed by anger, evil and a dark, foreboding malevolence that is focused on avenging the loss of the only woman that called to his heart. Jacob O’Connor will get his retribution by destroying everyone that gets in his way including the man who has been the focus of his anger and grief.
Alexandrea Weis pulls the reader into a dark and fated tale of catastrophic jealousy; of one man’s overwhelming anger and need to destroy and break the only friend that he has ever known. The premise is intriguing, thrilling and suspenseful; the characters are passionate in their desires and pathways to revenge. BLACKWELL is a tragic tale of jealousy and love; of betrayal and revenge; of dramatic and questionable journey of vengeance.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
January 17, 2017
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor is a dark historical thriller with slight paranormal elements.
Magnus Blackwell and Jacob O'Connor's friendship begins when they are both architectural students at Harvard. Magnus, who is from a wealthy family, is a little jaded, spoiled and quite popular with both his classmates and the ladies. Jacob is an orphan who is attending Harvard on scholarship and feels out of place amongst his fellow students. Magnus is a bit broody and angry with a sense of entitlement that seems to be an all common trait in his privileged world. Jacob is much more kind-hearted than Magnus and he finds it easy to forgive his friend's boorish behavior.
Despite the two men's differences, their friendship flourishes until Magnus sets his sights on Frances McGee. Trouble ensues when Frances rejects Blackwell and later marries Jacob. Overrun with jealousy, Magnus goes on vacation in New Orleans where Oscar Wilde introduces him to Madame Simone Glapion, a brothel proprietress and voodoo high priestess. Glapion quickly senses the evil lurking inside Blackwell and their acquaintance culminates with a stunning altercation that sets Magnus on an increasingly dark and twisted path.
While Blackwell is sinking deeper and deeper into depravity, Jacob and Frances begin married life together. Although deliriously happy, their life is marred by financial struggles as Jacob tries to secure a well paying job as an architect. So when Magnus returns from New Orleans and offers him a job renovating his family home, Jacob quickly accepts the position. He and Frances live on Blackwell's estate where Magnus proves to be a difficult client to please. Frances grows increasingly uneasy with their situation but with few employment prospects on the horizon, Jacob ignores his reservations while trying to reassure his wife all is well. Unbeknownst to Jacob and Frances, Blackwell's bitterness and jealousy over losing Frances to Jacob is about to spill over in a shocking act that will have unintended consequences for both men.
Featuring a storyline that is rife with elements of jealousy, vengeance and revenge, Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor is an intriguing story with several unexpected twists and turns. The sweet romance between Frances and Jacob is a stark contrast to Blackwell's sexually explicit exploits with prostitutes and servants. The novel's conclusion is quite dramatic and completely unexpected. A fast-paced historical novel with a supernatural twist that fans of the genre will enjoy.
Magnus Blackwell and Jacob O'Connor's friendship begins when they are both architectural students at Harvard. Magnus, who is from a wealthy family, is a little jaded, spoiled and quite popular with both his classmates and the ladies. Jacob is an orphan who is attending Harvard on scholarship and feels out of place amongst his fellow students. Magnus is a bit broody and angry with a sense of entitlement that seems to be an all common trait in his privileged world. Jacob is much more kind-hearted than Magnus and he finds it easy to forgive his friend's boorish behavior.
Despite the two men's differences, their friendship flourishes until Magnus sets his sights on Frances McGee. Trouble ensues when Frances rejects Blackwell and later marries Jacob. Overrun with jealousy, Magnus goes on vacation in New Orleans where Oscar Wilde introduces him to Madame Simone Glapion, a brothel proprietress and voodoo high priestess. Glapion quickly senses the evil lurking inside Blackwell and their acquaintance culminates with a stunning altercation that sets Magnus on an increasingly dark and twisted path.
While Blackwell is sinking deeper and deeper into depravity, Jacob and Frances begin married life together. Although deliriously happy, their life is marred by financial struggles as Jacob tries to secure a well paying job as an architect. So when Magnus returns from New Orleans and offers him a job renovating his family home, Jacob quickly accepts the position. He and Frances live on Blackwell's estate where Magnus proves to be a difficult client to please. Frances grows increasingly uneasy with their situation but with few employment prospects on the horizon, Jacob ignores his reservations while trying to reassure his wife all is well. Unbeknownst to Jacob and Frances, Blackwell's bitterness and jealousy over losing Frances to Jacob is about to spill over in a shocking act that will have unintended consequences for both men.
Featuring a storyline that is rife with elements of jealousy, vengeance and revenge, Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis with Lucas Astor is an intriguing story with several unexpected twists and turns. The sweet romance between Frances and Jacob is a stark contrast to Blackwell's sexually explicit exploits with prostitutes and servants. The novel's conclusion is quite dramatic and completely unexpected. A fast-paced historical novel with a supernatural twist that fans of the genre will enjoy.
February 5, 2017
Blackwell By Alexandrea Weis And Lucas Astor
4 Stars!!!!!
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy
This is the First Book in A New Paranormal Series
**This Review May Have A Few Minor Spoilers**
“Hell Has A New Master”
Set in Boston and New Orleans in the 1800s Blackwell is a story about jealousy, betrayal, and revenge. And they do say that revenge is a dish best served cold.
One of main characters is names Magnus Blackwell. He comes from a family with old money and is used to getting whatever and whoever he wants and His family names helps him get those things. Magnus’s father insisted he join the elite college named Harvard, and get his degree in Architecture. On his first day, he meets a boy named Jacob O’Conner. When Jacob was younger he got the chance to work and be mentored under a well-respected Architect. He worked very hard and learned all that he could and that work paid off and his mentor was able to get him a full scholarship at Harvard.
Quickly the two became friends and even though they were from completely different lives.
One night Magnus too Jacob to meet a girl that Magus his eye on. The girls name was Frances McGee. She was smart, beautiful and has one heck of a mouth on her. She was different from any of the girl they have ever met and they both became infatuated with her the more they got to know her. Since Magnus was the one that met her first, he was the one that asked her to start dating. Unfortunately, Magnus had an itch he couldn’t seem to scratch when it came down to the ladies and wasn’t faithful to Frances. She found out about his extracurricular activities and told him she didn’t want to have sex with him until they were married. This didn’t work and they broke it off. A few weeks after they broke up Jacob took the opportunity to ask Frances out, being the gentleman that he is, he asked Magnus for his blessing first. He said yes and after the two were dating a year, Jacob decided he was going to ask her to marry him and as I said before he is a gentleman and talked to Magus about it beforehand. Even though Magnus gave his blessing both times, the feeling he had for Frances have only grown stronger and he felt in his mind that she was his and only his to take and that made him resent Jacob and he wanted to get revenge on him for taking what he thought was supposed to be his.
This story is full of twists and turns with voodoo and has historical elements that make the story even more fantastic. Alexandrea and Lucas did a wonderful job with this story and left me wanted more and I can’t wait to read more of this series and some of Alexandrea’s other books as well.
Review By Anastasia Dodson
4 Stars!!!!!
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy
This is the First Book in A New Paranormal Series
**This Review May Have A Few Minor Spoilers**
“Hell Has A New Master”
Set in Boston and New Orleans in the 1800s Blackwell is a story about jealousy, betrayal, and revenge. And they do say that revenge is a dish best served cold.
One of main characters is names Magnus Blackwell. He comes from a family with old money and is used to getting whatever and whoever he wants and His family names helps him get those things. Magnus’s father insisted he join the elite college named Harvard, and get his degree in Architecture. On his first day, he meets a boy named Jacob O’Conner. When Jacob was younger he got the chance to work and be mentored under a well-respected Architect. He worked very hard and learned all that he could and that work paid off and his mentor was able to get him a full scholarship at Harvard.
Quickly the two became friends and even though they were from completely different lives.
One night Magnus too Jacob to meet a girl that Magus his eye on. The girls name was Frances McGee. She was smart, beautiful and has one heck of a mouth on her. She was different from any of the girl they have ever met and they both became infatuated with her the more they got to know her. Since Magnus was the one that met her first, he was the one that asked her to start dating. Unfortunately, Magnus had an itch he couldn’t seem to scratch when it came down to the ladies and wasn’t faithful to Frances. She found out about his extracurricular activities and told him she didn’t want to have sex with him until they were married. This didn’t work and they broke it off. A few weeks after they broke up Jacob took the opportunity to ask Frances out, being the gentleman that he is, he asked Magnus for his blessing first. He said yes and after the two were dating a year, Jacob decided he was going to ask her to marry him and as I said before he is a gentleman and talked to Magus about it beforehand. Even though Magnus gave his blessing both times, the feeling he had for Frances have only grown stronger and he felt in his mind that she was his and only his to take and that made him resent Jacob and he wanted to get revenge on him for taking what he thought was supposed to be his.
This story is full of twists and turns with voodoo and has historical elements that make the story even more fantastic. Alexandrea and Lucas did a wonderful job with this story and left me wanted more and I can’t wait to read more of this series and some of Alexandrea’s other books as well.
Review By Anastasia Dodson
February 3, 2017
I give Blackwell (a Magnus Blackwell novel) by Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor, 5 stars
Magnus Blackwell has it all. He is both adored and envied in late 1800s New England. Son of a rich and powerful affluent family. He does not need to work, but wants to prove his father wrong. His father said he was lazy and wouldn’t amount to anything. So he enrolled in the architect school of Harvard. There he meets Jacob.
Jacob is in Harvard on scholarship. A poor orphan, he was brought in and taken care of by the owner of an architect firm. Said man is now sponsoring his way thru school. He has worked hard to get where he is and won’t stop now. He knows what people say, but he keeps his head up. Running late for his orientation, he runs into Magnus Blackwell. He expects the usual sneers and comments about his background, but he doesn’t get it. Magnus seems to respect and take a liking to him. He become best friends with the most popular guy on campus and they are quickly inseparable. The only thing he doesn’t like about Magnus is his laugh. It seems so cruel and evil. But the rest of him is so friendly and outgoing, he decides to ignore it.
They attend a party together one night and Magnus introduces Jacob to her. Magnus becomes obsessed with her and Jacob falls in love. The best man wins ands the other appears to bow out gracefully. But things aren’t always as they seem.
Magnus is never happy unless he gets what he wants. He believes he is entitled. He travels to New Orleans to get away from it all. There he runs into a man who wants to be an author, calling himself Oscar Wilde. Oscar shows him the kind of things that make New Orleans stand out for one who has lots of money and likes things of a darker nature. Magnus revels in the darker side of this wonderful city, it brings out his depravity and need for revenge. How far will he go? Will he pay the ultimate price as he has been told?
This a wonderful, very dark gothic romance. It is quite twisted and very sinister. If you like bright, happy books, this is not for you. But if you like a little evil with your coffee, pick this book up. The things the characters do may surprise you. And the ones who appear good, may not be. There is depravity. There is revenge, there is love. Not to mention greed and envy. It’s the perfect dark and sinister soap opera. I couldn’t put this down and highly recommend it. The authors are wonderful at this type of writing and should continue in this style.
Magnus Blackwell has it all. He is both adored and envied in late 1800s New England. Son of a rich and powerful affluent family. He does not need to work, but wants to prove his father wrong. His father said he was lazy and wouldn’t amount to anything. So he enrolled in the architect school of Harvard. There he meets Jacob.
Jacob is in Harvard on scholarship. A poor orphan, he was brought in and taken care of by the owner of an architect firm. Said man is now sponsoring his way thru school. He has worked hard to get where he is and won’t stop now. He knows what people say, but he keeps his head up. Running late for his orientation, he runs into Magnus Blackwell. He expects the usual sneers and comments about his background, but he doesn’t get it. Magnus seems to respect and take a liking to him. He become best friends with the most popular guy on campus and they are quickly inseparable. The only thing he doesn’t like about Magnus is his laugh. It seems so cruel and evil. But the rest of him is so friendly and outgoing, he decides to ignore it.
They attend a party together one night and Magnus introduces Jacob to her. Magnus becomes obsessed with her and Jacob falls in love. The best man wins ands the other appears to bow out gracefully. But things aren’t always as they seem.
Magnus is never happy unless he gets what he wants. He believes he is entitled. He travels to New Orleans to get away from it all. There he runs into a man who wants to be an author, calling himself Oscar Wilde. Oscar shows him the kind of things that make New Orleans stand out for one who has lots of money and likes things of a darker nature. Magnus revels in the darker side of this wonderful city, it brings out his depravity and need for revenge. How far will he go? Will he pay the ultimate price as he has been told?
This a wonderful, very dark gothic romance. It is quite twisted and very sinister. If you like bright, happy books, this is not for you. But if you like a little evil with your coffee, pick this book up. The things the characters do may surprise you. And the ones who appear good, may not be. There is depravity. There is revenge, there is love. Not to mention greed and envy. It’s the perfect dark and sinister soap opera. I couldn’t put this down and highly recommend it. The authors are wonderful at this type of writing and should continue in this style.
February 8, 2017
Blackwell by Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor is a story about jealousy and obsession This story is action, suspense and a dark romance. This story will show you what happens when jealousy and obsession takes over your life. This story will take you back to the Victorian era in the 1800s. This story will have you sitting on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen next. Find out how jealousy and obsession effects these characters life!
Magnus Blackwell is a New Englander that is wealthy and handsome. Everyone wants to be him and all the girls want to be with him. What will happen when he meets Jacob O'Conner? Jacob is a Harvard student from the working class. They are from the complete opposite sides of the tracks. They form an unlikely friendship. What will happen to their friendship when it is put to the test by one beautiful woman? They both want her but only one will have her. When she decides which man she wants to be with, Magnus is not happy when it is not him. What will happen to their friendship after the choice has been made?
Magnus is devastated about losing the one woman he cannot have so he takes a trip to New Orleans. In a chance meeting he meets a writer that introduces him to a world of brutality and depravity. How will this change his life? As he returns back to his life, he is armed with voodoo. He is determined to win back the one woman he lost. What will he do to win her back? Is there any length that he won't go to win her back? How strong is his revenge?
This is my first read by Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor. Alexandrea lives with her husband and pets in New Orleans. When she is not writing she is a permitted/certified wildlife rehabber with Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries. Lucas lives a very private life and likes to spend time with a close knit group of friends rather than be in the spotlight. Some things that interest his are archery, photography, listening to jazz, blues and classical music and making wine. This story is a page turner that you will lose yourself in. This story will pull you into a world of revenge like no other. You will want to see what happens! I highly suggest this story as I know you will love it as much as I have.
Magnus Blackwell is a New Englander that is wealthy and handsome. Everyone wants to be him and all the girls want to be with him. What will happen when he meets Jacob O'Conner? Jacob is a Harvard student from the working class. They are from the complete opposite sides of the tracks. They form an unlikely friendship. What will happen to their friendship when it is put to the test by one beautiful woman? They both want her but only one will have her. When she decides which man she wants to be with, Magnus is not happy when it is not him. What will happen to their friendship after the choice has been made?
Magnus is devastated about losing the one woman he cannot have so he takes a trip to New Orleans. In a chance meeting he meets a writer that introduces him to a world of brutality and depravity. How will this change his life? As he returns back to his life, he is armed with voodoo. He is determined to win back the one woman he lost. What will he do to win her back? Is there any length that he won't go to win her back? How strong is his revenge?
This is my first read by Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor. Alexandrea lives with her husband and pets in New Orleans. When she is not writing she is a permitted/certified wildlife rehabber with Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries. Lucas lives a very private life and likes to spend time with a close knit group of friends rather than be in the spotlight. Some things that interest his are archery, photography, listening to jazz, blues and classical music and making wine. This story is a page turner that you will lose yourself in. This story will pull you into a world of revenge like no other. You will want to see what happens! I highly suggest this story as I know you will love it as much as I have.
January 20, 2017
Blackwell (A Magnus Blackwell novel) by Alexandra Weis. rated 4 stars
Magnus meets Jacob in college. He instantly likes Jacob and decides they should become best friends. Everything is going along well until Magnus meets Francis. He likes her and plans on making her his forever. Francis has other plans. Once she finds out that Magnus cannot be faithful to her she decides to break it off with him. Magnus decides to show the world that he doesn't care that she broke it off with him. Francis is sad and spends quite a bit of time with Jacob. Although Francis is as wealthy as Magnus, Jacob is worried that when he is starting to like her as more than a friend she will shy away from him because he does not come from money. He is shocked she is as interested in him as he is in her. When they decide to marry Magnus is extremely upset but doesn't show it. After that he heads to New Orleans for a change. Down there he befriends Oscar Wilde, who shows him the seedier sides of New Orleans. Eventually the religion of voodoo is brought to Magnus’ attention. He is very interested, but doesn't believe, in it. The more he learns the more he is fascinated by it wondering if it can help him get Francis back where she belongs…..with him.
To what lengths will a man go to get what he desires?
Even though I would say this is a love triangle I think it's more about what happens between Jacob and Magnus as years go by. Greedy men, who want to hold all the power, forget who they were and become something different. Sadly the women in this book are used only as pawns and a means to an end. Poor Jacob thought he had a great life at college and started moving forward in the right circles. I am saddened by what he was forced to become as this book concluded. I think this book covers just about all of the 7 deadly sins listed in the Bible.
History… there is a lot of history listed in this book. Architecture is a huge part of this story since that is Jacobs profession. So there is a lot of history of buildings and history of place. Even in New Orleans there was history and a backstory on voodoo in that town.
Magnus meets Jacob in college. He instantly likes Jacob and decides they should become best friends. Everything is going along well until Magnus meets Francis. He likes her and plans on making her his forever. Francis has other plans. Once she finds out that Magnus cannot be faithful to her she decides to break it off with him. Magnus decides to show the world that he doesn't care that she broke it off with him. Francis is sad and spends quite a bit of time with Jacob. Although Francis is as wealthy as Magnus, Jacob is worried that when he is starting to like her as more than a friend she will shy away from him because he does not come from money. He is shocked she is as interested in him as he is in her. When they decide to marry Magnus is extremely upset but doesn't show it. After that he heads to New Orleans for a change. Down there he befriends Oscar Wilde, who shows him the seedier sides of New Orleans. Eventually the religion of voodoo is brought to Magnus’ attention. He is very interested, but doesn't believe, in it. The more he learns the more he is fascinated by it wondering if it can help him get Francis back where she belongs…..with him.
To what lengths will a man go to get what he desires?
Even though I would say this is a love triangle I think it's more about what happens between Jacob and Magnus as years go by. Greedy men, who want to hold all the power, forget who they were and become something different. Sadly the women in this book are used only as pawns and a means to an end. Poor Jacob thought he had a great life at college and started moving forward in the right circles. I am saddened by what he was forced to become as this book concluded. I think this book covers just about all of the 7 deadly sins listed in the Bible.
History… there is a lot of history listed in this book. Architecture is a huge part of this story since that is Jacobs profession. So there is a lot of history of buildings and history of place. Even in New Orleans there was history and a backstory on voodoo in that town.
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