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Starfig Investigations #1
By Fairy Means or Foul
The last thing half-dragon, half-fairy private investigator Twig Starfig wants to do is retrieve a stolen enchanted horn from a treacherous fae, but there’s no denying the dazzlingly gorgeous unicorn who asks Twig to do just that. Literally, no denying, because compelling the reluctant detective is all part of a unicorn’s seductive magic.
To add to his woes, Twig is saddled with the unicorn’s cheeky indentured servant, Quinn Broomsparkle. Dragons are supposed to want to eat humans, but Twig’s half-dragon side only wants to gobble up Quinn in a more . . . personal way. Making matters worse, it’s obvious the smokin’ hot but untrustworthy sidekick is hiding something. Something big. And not what’s in his trousers. In the PI business, that means trouble with a capital Q.
Throw in gads of zombies, a creepy ghost pirate ship, a malfunctioning magic carpet, and Twig’s overbearing fairy father’s demands to live up to the illustrious Starfig name. Naturally, an old but abiding enemy chooses this time to resurface, too. Those inconveniences Twig can handle. The realization he’s falling for a human who isn’t free to return his affections and whose life may hang on the success of his latest case?
Not so much.
To add to his woes, Twig is saddled with the unicorn’s cheeky indentured servant, Quinn Broomsparkle. Dragons are supposed to want to eat humans, but Twig’s half-dragon side only wants to gobble up Quinn in a more . . . personal way. Making matters worse, it’s obvious the smokin’ hot but untrustworthy sidekick is hiding something. Something big. And not what’s in his trousers. In the PI business, that means trouble with a capital Q.
Throw in gads of zombies, a creepy ghost pirate ship, a malfunctioning magic carpet, and Twig’s overbearing fairy father’s demands to live up to the illustrious Starfig name. Naturally, an old but abiding enemy chooses this time to resurface, too. Those inconveniences Twig can handle. The realization he’s falling for a human who isn’t free to return his affections and whose life may hang on the success of his latest case?
Not so much.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2017
About the author
Meghan Maslow
20 books379 followersMEGHAN MASLOW is truly a rare breed. No, not a unicorn (although that would be sooo cool). She’s a—gasp!—extroverted writer.
She believes that life is meant to be lived. Preferably with lots of people around. Every day is an adventure, or should be. She’s spent a large portion of her life working and living in various countries in Africa. She’s multitalented, having perfected the art of eavesdropping in bars around the world while chugging local brews, and gabbing with anyone who isn’t quick enough to elude her grasp. She believes kindness is contagious, and learning to laugh at yourself is one of life’s greatest gifts (and challenges). She advocates for social justice, believes storytelling can be transformative, and surprisingly isn’t a misanthrope. She loves travel, reading, world music, Moscow Mules, awkward dancing, dreadlocks, her family, and um… writing.
She believes that life is meant to be lived. Preferably with lots of people around. Every day is an adventure, or should be. She’s spent a large portion of her life working and living in various countries in Africa. She’s multitalented, having perfected the art of eavesdropping in bars around the world while chugging local brews, and gabbing with anyone who isn’t quick enough to elude her grasp. She believes kindness is contagious, and learning to laugh at yourself is one of life’s greatest gifts (and challenges). She advocates for social justice, believes storytelling can be transformative, and surprisingly isn’t a misanthrope. She loves travel, reading, world music, Moscow Mules, awkward dancing, dreadlocks, her family, and um… writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 400 reviews
September 17, 2020
Wow, I didn’t expect it, but I kind of hated this book. You know when you read a book that you really don’t like and it makes you frustrated and angry and sad and makes you question all your life choices. Yeah, that was me last night when I was reading this.
This had all the ingredients of an amazing book. But it wasn’t the book for me..
That was mostly because of 3 things.
The first is that I expected this book to be funny. But characters with funny names does not a funny book make. It was like the author just decided to think up all this crazy OTT stuff and put it in this book (I especially cringed at the virgin sprite who called Twig ‘Fucko’. Yeah, so not funny). But there were no jokes, no funny one liners, nothing. It was pretty depressing actually.
The second thing were Twig and Quinn. I didn’t like them. Simple as that. Quinn was sold as a sex slave when he was 19 because when he didn’t become a wizard like everyone expected, he had to pay off his debt of magic school. And what really bothered me was how casual both Quinn and Twig were about that. Quinn was loaned out to Twig and they both knew he had to go back to being a sex slave and to being abused when their time was up, and yet they never talked about getting Quinn out in the first half of this book. Especially Twig accepted all this way too easily.
Quinn even tells Twig how he will get punished when he gets back by being loaned out to a whore house and how his master will take his voice away so he can’t scream while everyone is raping him. Quinn knows because he already endured this. You know what Twig said? Well, at least you will be free in a couple of years right, after your debt is paid? But apparently Quinn’s debt is so great he will never be free. And still Twig is not coming up with some sort of rescue plan for Quinn!!! WTH man?!? Aren’t you supposed to be the hero in this? Or at least care about what happens to Quinn? I felt as if Twig only thought about himself and how everything would affect him.
And then the third thing. The relationship itself. This is not a cute sweet romance. No, these guys fight, are mad at each other or trying to keep their distance for the most part of this book. Especially Twig, who is angry that Quinn has power over him (Quinn is not abusing this power and doesn’t even want it), so Twig decides to show Quinn who is the one in control here! Nothing really happens, don’t worry, but there was so much anger, it was awful. And Twig does (deliberately) hurt Quinn with the things he says. Ugh I hated them both right then. I would have hexed Twig into a twig right then and there.
It is clear from the start that Twig didn’t want anything to do with the human sex slave. He didn’t even want to rescue him from a life of abuse. He also didn’t want him as a mate, no matter how strongly his dragon wanted it. Twig just wanted to live his own life and not take care of someone else. Well, Twig, you should have just gone with that then.
I’m sorry for the rant guys, but this book annoyed me to no end. I hate giving out low ratings, but I can't bring myself to rate it any higher. :(
This had all the ingredients of an amazing book. But it wasn’t the book for me..
That was mostly because of 3 things.
The first is that I expected this book to be funny. But characters with funny names does not a funny book make. It was like the author just decided to think up all this crazy OTT stuff and put it in this book (I especially cringed at the virgin sprite who called Twig ‘Fucko’. Yeah, so not funny). But there were no jokes, no funny one liners, nothing. It was pretty depressing actually.
The second thing were Twig and Quinn. I didn’t like them. Simple as that. Quinn was sold as a sex slave when he was 19 because when he didn’t become a wizard like everyone expected, he had to pay off his debt of magic school. And what really bothered me was how casual both Quinn and Twig were about that. Quinn was loaned out to Twig and they both knew he had to go back to being a sex slave and to being abused when their time was up, and yet they never talked about getting Quinn out in the first half of this book. Especially Twig accepted all this way too easily.
Quinn even tells Twig how he will get punished when he gets back by being loaned out to a whore house and how his master will take his voice away so he can’t scream while everyone is raping him. Quinn knows because he already endured this. You know what Twig said? Well, at least you will be free in a couple of years right, after your debt is paid? But apparently Quinn’s debt is so great he will never be free. And still Twig is not coming up with some sort of rescue plan for Quinn!!! WTH man?!? Aren’t you supposed to be the hero in this? Or at least care about what happens to Quinn? I felt as if Twig only thought about himself and how everything would affect him.
And then the third thing. The relationship itself. This is not a cute sweet romance. No, these guys fight, are mad at each other or trying to keep their distance for the most part of this book. Especially Twig, who is angry that Quinn has power over him (Quinn is not abusing this power and doesn’t even want it), so Twig decides to show Quinn who is the one in control here! Nothing really happens, don’t worry, but there was so much anger, it was awful. And Twig does (deliberately) hurt Quinn with the things he says. Ugh I hated them both right then. I would have hexed Twig into a twig right then and there.
It is clear from the start that Twig didn’t want anything to do with the human sex slave. He didn’t even want to rescue him from a life of abuse. He also didn’t want him as a mate, no matter how strongly his dragon wanted it. Twig just wanted to live his own life and not take care of someone else. Well, Twig, you should have just gone with that then.
I’m sorry for the rant guys, but this book annoyed me to no end. I hate giving out low ratings, but I can't bring myself to rate it any higher. :(
June 28, 2021
Narration: 5 stars
Book: 2 stars
I really like Meghan Maslow as a person, and I was hoping to love By Fairy Means or Foul like most of my friends, but it turned out not to be the story for me.
I think... I sort of hate Twig?? How come he barely bats an eye when he finds out Quinn was kept as a sex slave and abused and raped? He's like, "well, I guess that's what you get." Twig was hypocritical and annoying and I never warmed to him. And Quinn was just... meh.
The plot was supposed to be more fun than it was. I didn't really get the humor, though I greatly enjoyed Greg Tremblay's range of voices. Greg is always such a pleasure to listen to, and he carried the story for me.
I'm going against the grain here, but I don't think I'll be continuing on with this series.
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January 12, 2018
Hands down this was the best audiobook I've ever listened to so far!!!
Greg Boudreaux, aka Greg Tremblay, has outdone himself with his narration.
To be honest, this is a book I normally never would have picked up, if it weren't for him being the narrator. But something that brought me to my happy place everytime I listened to it, even if real life is no fun at all at the moment, deserves all the stars.
Greg Boudreaux, aka Greg Tremblay, has outdone himself with his narration.
THIS. WAS. EPIC.
To be honest, this is a book I normally never would have picked up, if it weren't for him being the narrator. But something that brought me to my happy place everytime I listened to it, even if real life is no fun at all at the moment, deserves all the stars.
January 21, 2023
4 Stars
By Fairy Means or Foul was a fantastical and fun read, featuring a delicious mixed bag of extraordinary magical beings, including everything from wizards, fairies and dragons, to giants, zombies, demons and more.
The story follows half-breed Twig Starfig, who is a one-of-a-kind part-fairy/part-dragon mix, who works as a PI specialising in retrieving missing and/or stolen magical artefacts. When a devious unicorn hires Twig to find his horn, young human Quinn Broomsparkle – who was once a wizard-in-training but is now locked in a life of servitude as the unicorn’s sex-slave – gets handed over to Twig as collateral until the horn has been located and retrieved for full payment.
Although both are initially apprehensive of the arrangement, Twig and Quinn quickly learn that they actually work well together during their quest to find the horn. The two come to discover hidden truths about one another, regarding Quinn’s past and Twig’s mixed heritage, and as they begin to naturally develop a strong bond, Twig realises that Quinn is not only more than he first appears, but he also recognises that Quinn might actually be his destined mate.
This story was quirky and audacious, delivering a fast-paced fantasy-adventure tale with a handful of silly laugh-out-loud moments, lots of action, and plenty of sweet and sexy mate moments between Twig and Quinn.
I enjoyed this one and I’ll undoubtedly be back for more when the sequels come to call.
****************************************
Audio Edition:
Once again, Greg Boudreaux (AKA Greg Tremblay) narrates to perfection. I seriously can’t think of a voice actor I’d rather listen to. I’d follow this dude’s voice off a cliff, he’s that enticing. For the audio alone, I’d give this five full stars and I'd highly recommend this format of reading to all lovers of audio and/or Greg himself.
By Fairy Means or Foul was a fantastical and fun read, featuring a delicious mixed bag of extraordinary magical beings, including everything from wizards, fairies and dragons, to giants, zombies, demons and more.
The story follows half-breed Twig Starfig, who is a one-of-a-kind part-fairy/part-dragon mix, who works as a PI specialising in retrieving missing and/or stolen magical artefacts. When a devious unicorn hires Twig to find his horn, young human Quinn Broomsparkle – who was once a wizard-in-training but is now locked in a life of servitude as the unicorn’s sex-slave – gets handed over to Twig as collateral until the horn has been located and retrieved for full payment.
Although both are initially apprehensive of the arrangement, Twig and Quinn quickly learn that they actually work well together during their quest to find the horn. The two come to discover hidden truths about one another, regarding Quinn’s past and Twig’s mixed heritage, and as they begin to naturally develop a strong bond, Twig realises that Quinn is not only more than he first appears, but he also recognises that Quinn might actually be his destined mate.
This story was quirky and audacious, delivering a fast-paced fantasy-adventure tale with a handful of silly laugh-out-loud moments, lots of action, and plenty of sweet and sexy mate moments between Twig and Quinn.
I enjoyed this one and I’ll undoubtedly be back for more when the sequels come to call.
****************************************
Audio Edition:
Once again, Greg Boudreaux (AKA Greg Tremblay) narrates to perfection. I seriously can’t think of a voice actor I’d rather listen to. I’d follow this dude’s voice off a cliff, he’s that enticing. For the audio alone, I’d give this five full stars and I'd highly recommend this format of reading to all lovers of audio and/or Greg himself.
April 11, 2018
5++++++++ stars for the Audiobook
Greg Boudreaux's Aka Greg Tremblay narration was perfect. He had a distinct voice for each character. Damn! the guy has an amazing voice and talent.
Son of a Banshee! this was book had me like:
-It is OTP and Ridiculous but did i care? nope
- We have a Half Dragon, Half Fairy MC
-A sassy loud-mouth Human Wizard.
- A Fairy Father.
-An awful, bad Unicorn.
- A Ghost Parrot
-A Very polite nice Demon and other weird creatures
Put all these creatures together and you get an adventure.
If you need some comic relief and very unrealistic story, get this Audiobook you will not regret Greg's Eargasm.
Greg Boudreaux's Aka Greg Tremblay narration was perfect. He had a distinct voice for each character. Damn! the guy has an amazing voice and talent.
Son of a Banshee! this was book had me like:
-It is OTP and Ridiculous but did i care? nope
- We have a Half Dragon, Half Fairy MC
-A sassy loud-mouth Human Wizard.
- A Fairy Father.
-An awful, bad Unicorn.
- A Ghost Parrot
-A Very polite nice Demon and other weird creatures
Put all these creatures together and you get an adventure.
If you need some comic relief and very unrealistic story, get this Audiobook you will not regret Greg's Eargasm.
December 31, 2020
I'm ending 2020 with a bang. I desperately needed some raucous fun and this may be the only banging good read I get out of this sucktastic year.
Twig, Pi, Quin and the rag-tag crew of misfits in the capable hands of Mr. Boudreaux deliver the giggles and good feels. Every time.
***************************************************************************
Re-listen 2/18
GR rully needs a 6th star. For special occasions. I am just saying.
***********************************************************************
Hellafuck Good!
I never expected to love this as much as I did but right from the start Twig's grouchiness made me smile. That paired with Quinn's sassiness, the names (OMG the names! Rainbowpebbles wins all the things!) and Boudreaux's EPIC PERFORMANCE and resistance was futile.
The adventure fantasy is full of twists and turns that kept me rapt from start to finish. I even drug it out by listening to some chapters over, especially the one with Pie. Boudreaux did this... IDEK how to describe it, but every single time he did the thing, I chortled. I also chuckled REAL hard at Twig's fairy father. The pride he takes in the Starfig name and how he suffers no fools appealed to me. I'm going to have to find a way to incorporate "but you're a Starfig!" into my vernacular. Not sure how. But where there's a will, there's a way, right?
The buildup of tension between Quinn and Twig and how their relationship progressed was well balanced with the adventure. Once they finally succumb to their desires... I was hot.
Between the hilarious secondary characters, the squishy good feels I got from Twig and Quinn, the entertaining plot and Boudreaux's fantastical narration, 5 stars seems inadequate. 5 stars for each?
Done and done. 20 STARS!
Lastly, this.
Upon discovering this was going to be a series. Woot!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Cannot faaking wait to hear the next one!
Twig, Pi, Quin and the rag-tag crew of misfits in the capable hands of Mr. Boudreaux deliver the giggles and good feels. Every time.
***************************************************************************
Re-listen 2/18
GR rully needs a 6th star. For special occasions. I am just saying.
***********************************************************************
Hellafuck Good!
I never expected to love this as much as I did but right from the start Twig's grouchiness made me smile. That paired with Quinn's sassiness, the names (OMG the names! Rainbowpebbles wins all the things!) and Boudreaux's EPIC PERFORMANCE and resistance was futile.
The adventure fantasy is full of twists and turns that kept me rapt from start to finish. I even drug it out by listening to some chapters over, especially the one with Pie. Boudreaux did this... IDEK how to describe it, but every single time he did the thing, I chortled. I also chuckled REAL hard at Twig's fairy father. The pride he takes in the Starfig name and how he suffers no fools appealed to me. I'm going to have to find a way to incorporate "but you're a Starfig!" into my vernacular. Not sure how. But where there's a will, there's a way, right?
The buildup of tension between Quinn and Twig and how their relationship progressed was well balanced with the adventure. Once they finally succumb to their desires... I was hot.
Between the hilarious secondary characters, the squishy good feels I got from Twig and Quinn, the entertaining plot and Boudreaux's fantastical narration, 5 stars seems inadequate. 5 stars for each?
Done and done. 20 STARS!
Lastly, this.
Upon discovering this was going to be a series. Woot!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Cannot faaking wait to hear the next one!
January 26, 2024
Wow, I had so much fun reading this. I couldn't stop giggling, it was so ridiculous but also so beautiful.
It's all told from Twig Starfig's perspective and I had a bit of trouble understanding what was actually happening here for the first few pages. Fortunately, the moment was only very short and then after the first few questions the first giggles started and I was in love. And even if it may seem one-sided in the narrative style, nothing really feels wrong, you still get the overall view and atmosphere through Twig's eyes and also the perfect impression of the other characters. Congratulations to the author for this perfect job. My first book by Meghan Maslow totally won me over ... just the covers ... hmmm, they could really be better, because they are to blame that I haven't read this before.
Anyway, back to the story.
So Twig has to set off in search of a unicorn's horn, and he's not alone. Annoyingly, Quinn Broomsparkle has been put in front of him, a human to boot, unthinkable, and yes, the problems are piling up ...
And then there's the matter of the unexpected attraction.
“You’re going to fall off,” I chided, pulling his legs toward me until his groin was snug against my ass. A jolt of heat licked down my spine and I had the strangest urge to submit. Hadn’t expected that. 😳
I continued to tease him with my loose fist, not giving him what he needed, watching the battle that waged in his eyes. He wanted to push me over and show me who was boss. Well, I had news for him. I would breed him so good, so hard, there’d be no doubt it wasn’t him. 🤤
There's not much more to say really, even all of my awesome highlightings give far too much away.
So, if you like dragons, fairies, unicorns, wizards, demons and giants and much much more and can find fun in a funny book, then read this!!!
It's all told from Twig Starfig's perspective and I had a bit of trouble understanding what was actually happening here for the first few pages. Fortunately, the moment was only very short and then after the first few questions the first giggles started and I was in love. And even if it may seem one-sided in the narrative style, nothing really feels wrong, you still get the overall view and atmosphere through Twig's eyes and also the perfect impression of the other characters. Congratulations to the author for this perfect job. My first book by Meghan Maslow totally won me over ... just the covers ... hmmm, they could really be better, because they are to blame that I haven't read this before.
Anyway, back to the story.
So Twig has to set off in search of a unicorn's horn, and he's not alone. Annoyingly, Quinn Broomsparkle has been put in front of him, a human to boot, unthinkable, and yes, the problems are piling up ...
And then there's the matter of the unexpected attraction.
“You’re going to fall off,” I chided, pulling his legs toward me until his groin was snug against my ass. A jolt of heat licked down my spine and I had the strangest urge to submit. Hadn’t expected that. 😳
I continued to tease him with my loose fist, not giving him what he needed, watching the battle that waged in his eyes. He wanted to push me over and show me who was boss. Well, I had news for him. I would breed him so good, so hard, there’d be no doubt it wasn’t him. 🤤
There's not much more to say really, even all of my awesome highlightings give far too much away.
So, if you like dragons, fairies, unicorns, wizards, demons and giants and much much more and can find fun in a funny book, then read this!!!
December 30, 2019
4 Hearts!
Lately, I’ve been very lucky, and a bit tickled pink, to find some great urban fantasy M/M and this was no exception. If you like magic and fantastical creatures with plenty of adventure, then this is for you!
This starts off with Twig - a half fairy and half dragon combo. He doesn’t quite fit in with either side of his dual natures but capitalizes on his talents by owning an investigative business specializing in finding things. When a sparkly compelling unicorn asks him to retrieve his missing horn, Twig can hardly say no. To possibly sweeten the pot, he's given the unicorn's human servant, Quinn, as collateral to get the job done. What should be simple and quick is anything but.
Rife with bits and pieces of stuff we all tend to enjoy if we’re fantasy/paranormal enthusiasts, this had it all! Politically correct fairies, horny sprites, scheming unicorns, along with gargoyles, gnomes, ghosts, giants, orcs, demons, zombies and more! Whew!!
This pretty much had nonstop action, peppered with the push pull of Twig and Quinn as they discover that they’re more “together” than apart. Plenty sexy as they resist their attraction and quite yummy when they didn’t.
Overall, highly entertaining with lots of fun factor. This brought me back to my nostalgic happy place, made all the better being M/M! Hopefully, this isn’t the last we’ve seen of Twig, Quinn, and company - this was a fabulous start to what looks like a great series!!
Thanks to the author/publisher for a copy in return for a honest review
For everyone else’s thoughts, check out the blog for more!!
Lately, I’ve been very lucky, and a bit tickled pink, to find some great urban fantasy M/M and this was no exception. If you like magic and fantastical creatures with plenty of adventure, then this is for you!
This starts off with Twig - a half fairy and half dragon combo. He doesn’t quite fit in with either side of his dual natures but capitalizes on his talents by owning an investigative business specializing in finding things. When a sparkly compelling unicorn asks him to retrieve his missing horn, Twig can hardly say no. To possibly sweeten the pot, he's given the unicorn's human servant, Quinn, as collateral to get the job done. What should be simple and quick is anything but.
Rife with bits and pieces of stuff we all tend to enjoy if we’re fantasy/paranormal enthusiasts, this had it all! Politically correct fairies, horny sprites, scheming unicorns, along with gargoyles, gnomes, ghosts, giants, orcs, demons, zombies and more! Whew!!
This pretty much had nonstop action, peppered with the push pull of Twig and Quinn as they discover that they’re more “together” than apart. Plenty sexy as they resist their attraction and quite yummy when they didn’t.
Overall, highly entertaining with lots of fun factor. This brought me back to my nostalgic happy place, made all the better being M/M! Hopefully, this isn’t the last we’ve seen of Twig, Quinn, and company - this was a fabulous start to what looks like a great series!!
Thanks to the author/publisher for a copy in return for a honest review
For everyone else’s thoughts, check out the blog for more!!
January 4, 2018
This is a one colorful book. 😂 Yup, that’s the first word that came to my mind when I think about it. I mean just think of any magical or mythical creatures that you can come up with and I’m sure they are included in this novel. 😁 And the banters here are just pure gold. 🧡 Hilarious! And witty! 😉 I had pure bliss reading this novel. This book had been sitting on my kindle forever but Cupcake’s review finally pushed me to read this one so I have to give a special shout out to her. 😘
Have you ever heard of tiny fairies and enormous dragons having an offspring together? Well, look no further, here is Twig, half-dragon half-fairy private investigator. He’s been an odd ball for all his life. Being cast out by his mother’s clan for being too puny at the age of fourteen, Twig had no choice but to come to the realm of his father and live with fairies and all other magical creatures. And he’s been doing very well in his life now, a successful PI having a comfortable life with a satisfying hoard. And one day, everything changed when an irresistible unicorn and his sassy-mouthed bed slave came into his office manipulating him to get unicorn’s horn back from a notorious criminal. Quinn, a current bedslave of Brandsome the unicorn and a former potential-wizard-to-be. After miserably failing the last test to become a real wizard, his school sold him to a cruel and manipulative unicorn to reimburse his tuition fees. When he was left with Twig as a collateral for his service fee, he thought Twig will be just like his unicorn owner, cruel, selfish and condescending. But he found out that despite being huge and having a stern, mean looking face, Twig is one of the kindest and empathetic person he’s ever met. But while he’s can give his body to Twig, he can’t freely give his heart to him as he’s technically still the indentured servant of the unicorn. And the sadistic unicorn didn’t leave him with Twig without some ulterior motives. Will they be able to overcome all those crazy adventures and be together in the end?
I don’t even know how to describe the storyline of this book because that was one overwhelming story. (In a very good way I assure ya .. 😉). I mean vegetarian demons, life-sucking evil sprites and ghost ship and a ghost parrot sailing across the desert? 😂 That’s one hell of an authentic and imaginative storyline. 👏 And the banters between Twig and Quinn? Just hilarious! 😜 I can’t help falling in love with that sassy mouth of Quinn. And UST between Quinn and Twig was electric until they actually banged which is also spectacular. 😍 I don’t even know how the author think of all those plots, twists, the quirky and very interesting traits and facts of MCs and side characters. This was just a dream come true for all those fantasy and comedy romance lovers. 😌 I love it! 😍I do hope this is not a standalone and will have more books as a series. And ending? Who knows dragons are hella romantic creatures! 😍 I loved how everything wrapped up in the end. It was a fantastic read with equally magnificent MCs. ❤️ I want more of Twig and Quinn and I want them now! 😱
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💙💚💙
”Ah, making sure everyone knew how virile the Starfig line ran, his second favorite pastime after legislating every little facet of life here in the Elder. As if his virility could be in doubt when he sired a child with a dragon.”
“Well, I had news for him. I would breed him so good, so hard, there’d be no doubt it wasn’t him .”
5 quirky, romantic dragon and crazy, sassy-mouthed wizard stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Have you ever heard of tiny fairies and enormous dragons having an offspring together? Well, look no further, here is Twig, half-dragon half-fairy private investigator. He’s been an odd ball for all his life. Being cast out by his mother’s clan for being too puny at the age of fourteen, Twig had no choice but to come to the realm of his father and live with fairies and all other magical creatures. And he’s been doing very well in his life now, a successful PI having a comfortable life with a satisfying hoard. And one day, everything changed when an irresistible unicorn and his sassy-mouthed bed slave came into his office manipulating him to get unicorn’s horn back from a notorious criminal. Quinn, a current bedslave of Brandsome the unicorn and a former potential-wizard-to-be. After miserably failing the last test to become a real wizard, his school sold him to a cruel and manipulative unicorn to reimburse his tuition fees. When he was left with Twig as a collateral for his service fee, he thought Twig will be just like his unicorn owner, cruel, selfish and condescending. But he found out that despite being huge and having a stern, mean looking face, Twig is one of the kindest and empathetic person he’s ever met. But while he’s can give his body to Twig, he can’t freely give his heart to him as he’s technically still the indentured servant of the unicorn. And the sadistic unicorn didn’t leave him with Twig without some ulterior motives. Will they be able to overcome all those crazy adventures and be together in the end?
I don’t even know how to describe the storyline of this book because that was one overwhelming story. (In a very good way I assure ya .. 😉). I mean vegetarian demons, life-sucking evil sprites and ghost ship and a ghost parrot sailing across the desert? 😂 That’s one hell of an authentic and imaginative storyline. 👏 And the banters between Twig and Quinn? Just hilarious! 😜 I can’t help falling in love with that sassy mouth of Quinn. And UST between Quinn and Twig was electric until they actually banged which is also spectacular. 😍 I don’t even know how the author think of all those plots, twists, the quirky and very interesting traits and facts of MCs and side characters. This was just a dream come true for all those fantasy and comedy romance lovers. 😌 I love it! 😍I do hope this is not a standalone and will have more books as a series. And ending? Who knows dragons are hella romantic creatures! 😍 I loved how everything wrapped up in the end. It was a fantastic read with equally magnificent MCs. ❤️ I want more of Twig and Quinn and I want them now! 😱
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💙💚💙
”Ah, making sure everyone knew how virile the Starfig line ran, his second favorite pastime after legislating every little facet of life here in the Elder. As if his virility could be in doubt when he sired a child with a dragon.”
“Well, I had news for him. I would breed him so good, so hard, there’d be no doubt it wasn’t him .”
5 quirky, romantic dragon and crazy, sassy-mouthed wizard stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 5, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Interesting, but it got ruined*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
The book centers around half-dragon, half-fairy private investigator Twig Starfig and bed servant to a unicorn, Quinn Broomsparkle. Even though the dragon part of Twig is dominant,
he can't fly; he has tiny, useless wings as big as his hands (). He's too big of a size to be accepted by the fairies, and too small for the dragons. All by himself, he commands his life and makes his own decisions, but that all changed when he get Quinn as a part of a job. However, Quinn is not what he seems. Overall, the book was a big case of insta-love. It had a interesting concept and plot, but the insta-love was so obvious and not wanted by me that it kinda ruined the book. It also somehow lacked depth and I barely felt any connection between the two characters.
Well that deflated my cock faster than a werebeaver with braces offering free blowjobs.
THE TRUTH ABOUT QUINN:
I don't know how humans managed to get around at all. Blind, practically deaf, and no sense of smell. How they'd survived this long I couldn't even imagine. Uncontrolled breeding and pure stubbornness, probably.
OTHER CHARACTERS:
→ ‘The’ Brandsome Nightwind, a unicorn who's selfish and arrogant. Dazzle Fashion’s Cover Model of the Year. Third year in a row. His fans call him Brand-Me-For-Life Nightwind.
→ Auric Starfig (twelve hundred or so years), Twig's father and a fairy (Twig's mother is a dragon), a political animal extraordinaire, and rumored to be the last purebred of his kind. That his power is to wield political influence. However, that’s what everyone assumes and what Twig's father lets creatures believe. The truth isn’t as glamorous.
→ Lapus Rainbowpebbles, a fairy and not a nice one.
→ Pirate ‘Pie’ McPiratestein, a ghost/a brightly colored but translucent parrot
→ Sahara Burningwood, a spirit who destroyed her soul and turns creatures to zombies.
→ Nyx Dapplepool, a fairy and there wasn’t a fairy in the Elder Twig hated more than him. He's also the second person to have gotten the horn Twig needs. Sahara the first, after Brandsome lost it in a bet agains Rainbowpebbles.
→ Drutilda Fondlefrank, a virgin spirit.
→ Krofom, a giant (cyclops) and the bartender at the Watering Hole.
→ ‘Bill’ (if you get his real name; he'll kill you), the Red Rury. Red Furies were the berserkers of the demon world. Ugly, stupid, and aggressive, they enjoyed tearing whole towns to pieces. Twig's mother once told him about the now-extinct Bindog Clan who’d foolishly tangled with a Red Fury. No way even a dragon had a chance against so fierce a fighter.
“...with half-breeds; we don’t have a place in the Elder. Or any realm for that matter. If I were a pure-blood dragon, I’d just force you to submit and we’d be done with the argument. We . . . they don’t mince words. If I were a pure-blood fairy, I’d try to turn your words against you until you felt you owed me an apology. I’ve seen my dad do it enough times. Except it seems like such a weak attempt to wield power in an exchange, and my other side can’t stomach it. Part of the reason I’m such a disappointment to my father.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Fantasy (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book One.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Quinn Broomsparkle.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5/2 stars.
October 4, 2017
Duuuuuuuude!!!
This is like, my FAVORITE book of the summer! EVERYONE needs to read this!
I adored this story of the curmudgeonly dragon-fairy (Fragon? Drairy?) Twig and Quinn, the human slave-boy he's sworn to protect. Twig is a private investigator who is hired by Brandsome Nightwind, a unicorn (unicorn!) of questionable intent, to find his missing horn. He's a bit strapped for cash and can't pay the down payment Twig requires so he offers his slave boy Quinn up as collateral. Twig, who can't stand the idea of anyone being a slave, accepts the unicorn's (unicorn!) offer and the two set off to locate the horn.
And thus begins an epic story of shenanigans, misadventures and tomfoolery I've not seen equaled in a long time. This was so much fun! I had a blast reading this story. I think Meghan Maslow has found her niche. I've read her contemporary novel and, while good, it has nothing on this epic fantasy. Why, the names she thought up for the various characters we meet here are worth reading this story alone! They were so creative!
There's not much else I can say about this book that (a) won't spoil the plot and (b) hasn't already been said by many others so I'll just say this. This is brain candy on steroids. It is over the top and ridiculous in the best way. It's like a hot fudge brownie sundae with whipped cream, nuts, caramel and chocolate drizzle, sprinkles and a cherry on top. Super sized. I recommend this to everyone.
This is like, my FAVORITE book of the summer! EVERYONE needs to read this!
I adored this story of the curmudgeonly dragon-fairy (Fragon? Drairy?) Twig and Quinn, the human slave-boy he's sworn to protect. Twig is a private investigator who is hired by Brandsome Nightwind, a unicorn (unicorn!) of questionable intent, to find his missing horn. He's a bit strapped for cash and can't pay the down payment Twig requires so he offers his slave boy Quinn up as collateral. Twig, who can't stand the idea of anyone being a slave, accepts the unicorn's (unicorn!) offer and the two set off to locate the horn.
And thus begins an epic story of shenanigans, misadventures and tomfoolery I've not seen equaled in a long time. This was so much fun! I had a blast reading this story. I think Meghan Maslow has found her niche. I've read her contemporary novel and, while good, it has nothing on this epic fantasy. Why, the names she thought up for the various characters we meet here are worth reading this story alone! They were so creative!
There's not much else I can say about this book that (a) won't spoil the plot and (b) hasn't already been said by many others so I'll just say this. This is brain candy on steroids. It is over the top and ridiculous in the best way. It's like a hot fudge brownie sundae with whipped cream, nuts, caramel and chocolate drizzle, sprinkles and a cherry on top. Super sized. I recommend this to everyone.
October 5, 2017
Big ol' unicorn gangbang review with Lost in a Book, R *A Reader Obsessed*, JL, Sara and Lori
4.25 HEARTS--
What can I say that hasn't been said already by fantasy road trip romance, By Fairy Means or Foul?
It was epic and definitely went big, instead of mailing it in, in the fantastical department!
Hm, indeed.
It's been a pleasure reading Meghan Maslow's work. I can attest to reading everything published by her so far, and while her contemporary is good, her paranormal/fantasy is where it's at!
Go on, read the blurb. I'll wait.
It's like a unicorn enhanced acid trip, right? (Those are highly potent, so I hear on the pony paddock.)
In what I hope is first of more to come, By Fairy Means or Foul is Twig Starfig's book. It's told in his 1st POV. Twig is an outcast of both of his parent's communities being as he's not a full blood fairy or dragon. he can't fly, he can't shift and he's puny in dragon standards. He's left the self destructive portion of his life in the past (mostly), and settled down into a job that uses one of his dormant skills, finding treasure or others' missing items. His dragon intuitiveness makes him one of the best trackers.
Which brings an evil unicorn in need of Twig's services. I know, I know, unicorns can't be evil, they're awesome. I agree.
But sometimes what is perceived as beautiful and perfect, can be wicked and evil. And the unicorn reeks of self importance and rudeness. Plus, he's sadistic, all under a polished veneer. And this unicorn foolishly lost his unicorn horn and needs Twig to find it. And he transfers his human indentured servant and bed slave, Quinn Broomsparkle, to Twig temporarily as payment.
Something Twig doesn't want as he has no idea what to do with a mouthy human and certainly doesn't want to bed to the handsome human, no matter if he finds Quinn attractive. Because Twig knows it's wrong while Quinn is still under a contract. In fact, Twig remarks multiple times about not being cool with the indentured servant business. Potential trigger warning: mentions of off page rape.
At the beginning of the story, Quinn and Twig are put together because of this unicorn horn job and Twig just wants to get the entire business over with. He doesn't understand human, doesn't want to. He likes life as it is.
But Quinn gets under his skin and it blossoms as the story progresses. The pair travel all around the world of Elder (where Twig lives) and it was like a shopping list of (mostly) my fave paranormal things:
pirate
demons
magical villains
hipster giants
know-it-all fairies
DRAGON!
I actually fell for a ghost. Me! But Pie is adorbz. Dare you not to think he's cute too.
And there is more magical beings on the list: zombies, orcs, hell, even a mermaid showed up. The world is a modern feel with magic shopping list. It's a lot and I think true fantasy fans would get the most of out of this tale. And while I enjoyed just about all of the characters, I think the world building and the magical meld is the strongest thing about the tale. Road trips force the protagonists together but the chemistry between them and how the author handles it makes or breaks road trip stories for me. I'll admit it's not a fave of mine, but Quinn and Twig gave good snark and cute. They made me enjoy the journey.
And the sexual tension? It's very good. Twig has morals though he might to act like a grumpy, tough guy. He cares. And he's dedicated to Quinn. Even when he doesn't want to be. His like of Quinn heats up the attraction. And when the final line is crossed and both men succumb? (with Quinn taking the final step freely)
Breed is still a buzz word of mine. Me-ow!
For the smutsters, there is sex. Not a lot because an epic journey can't be solved if the MC's are humping on each other every page. Plus, the servant deal is a major point of contention for Twig.
There is a lot of fun, the secondary characters a delight (even Twig's pushy dad). I think there were parts here and there that could have had some words shaved off. The pace was good but there were a few lulls, very few. By Fairy ends with a strong HFN/HEA vibe. The guys struggle with a few things about the enormity of life decisions. Cryptic? Maybe but you'd really need to read this to get the enormity of the situation for the two guys.
I like the way it ended a lot. Because the possibility for more is so clear. And with the final set of characters together, it should be magical. I can't wait to read more from Maslow and this world.
I'm enchanted.
If you're on the fence, read a sample and see if this brand of snarky, silly, magical fun is a good fit!
Recommended to fans of Thick as Thieves, fans of campy fantasy fun, unique shifter hybrids and magic.
A copy provided for an honest review.
4.25 HEARTS--
"Twig, you're so much more. Who'd want to be average when you can be extraordinary?"
What can I say that hasn't been said already by fantasy road trip romance, By Fairy Means or Foul?
It was epic and definitely went big, instead of mailing it in, in the fantastical department!
Hm, indeed.
It's been a pleasure reading Meghan Maslow's work. I can attest to reading everything published by her so far, and while her contemporary is good, her paranormal/fantasy is where it's at!
Go on, read the blurb. I'll wait.
It's like a unicorn enhanced acid trip, right? (Those are highly potent, so I hear on the pony paddock.)
In what I hope is first of more to come, By Fairy Means or Foul is Twig Starfig's book. It's told in his 1st POV. Twig is an outcast of both of his parent's communities being as he's not a full blood fairy or dragon. he can't fly, he can't shift and he's puny in dragon standards. He's left the self destructive portion of his life in the past (mostly), and settled down into a job that uses one of his dormant skills, finding treasure or others' missing items. His dragon intuitiveness makes him one of the best trackers.
Which brings an evil unicorn in need of Twig's services. I know, I know, unicorns can't be evil, they're awesome. I agree.
But sometimes what is perceived as beautiful and perfect, can be wicked and evil. And the unicorn reeks of self importance and rudeness. Plus, he's sadistic, all under a polished veneer. And this unicorn foolishly lost his unicorn horn and needs Twig to find it. And he transfers his human indentured servant and bed slave, Quinn Broomsparkle, to Twig temporarily as payment.
Something Twig doesn't want as he has no idea what to do with a mouthy human and certainly doesn't want to bed to the handsome human, no matter if he finds Quinn attractive. Because Twig knows it's wrong while Quinn is still under a contract. In fact, Twig remarks multiple times about not being cool with the indentured servant business. Potential trigger warning: mentions of off page rape.
"I'm not planning to use your services if that's what you're worried about. I like my bed partners willing."
"But... I am willing..." His voice trailed off. He studied my face as if to gauge whether I told the truth or not.
"You're not. Not really."
At the beginning of the story, Quinn and Twig are put together because of this unicorn horn job and Twig just wants to get the entire business over with. He doesn't understand human, doesn't want to. He likes life as it is.
But Quinn gets under his skin and it blossoms as the story progresses. The pair travel all around the world of Elder (where Twig lives) and it was like a shopping list of (mostly) my fave paranormal things:
pirate
demons
magical villains
hipster giants
know-it-all fairies
DRAGON!
I actually fell for a ghost. Me! But Pie is adorbz. Dare you not to think he's cute too.
And there is more magical beings on the list: zombies, orcs, hell, even a mermaid showed up. The world is a modern feel with magic shopping list. It's a lot and I think true fantasy fans would get the most of out of this tale. And while I enjoyed just about all of the characters, I think the world building and the magical meld is the strongest thing about the tale. Road trips force the protagonists together but the chemistry between them and how the author handles it makes or breaks road trip stories for me. I'll admit it's not a fave of mine, but Quinn and Twig gave good snark and cute. They made me enjoy the journey.
And the sexual tension? It's very good. Twig has morals though he might to act like a grumpy, tough guy. He cares. And he's dedicated to Quinn. Even when he doesn't want to be. His like of Quinn heats up the attraction. And when the final line is crossed and both men succumb? (with Quinn taking the final step freely)
"I would breed him so good, so hard, there'd be no doubt it wasn't him."
Breed is still a buzz word of mine. Me-ow!
For the smutsters, there is sex. Not a lot because an epic journey can't be solved if the MC's are humping on each other every page. Plus, the servant deal is a major point of contention for Twig.
There is a lot of fun, the secondary characters a delight (even Twig's pushy dad). I think there were parts here and there that could have had some words shaved off. The pace was good but there were a few lulls, very few. By Fairy ends with a strong HFN/HEA vibe. The guys struggle with a few things about the enormity of life decisions. Cryptic? Maybe but you'd really need to read this to get the enormity of the situation for the two guys.
I like the way it ended a lot. Because the possibility for more is so clear. And with the final set of characters together, it should be magical. I can't wait to read more from Maslow and this world.
I'm enchanted.
If you're on the fence, read a sample and see if this brand of snarky, silly, magical fun is a good fit!
Recommended to fans of Thick as Thieves, fans of campy fantasy fun, unique shifter hybrids and magic.
A copy provided for an honest review.
January 9, 2021
Audio reread January 2021
I didn't think this could possibly get better, but when I'm wrong, I'm wrong in a big way! Everything is better when Greg Boudreaux/Tremblay is reading!! 😍 This was ah-maz-ing, I don't think I've ever heard characters more perfectly voiced since Michael Lesley for The Lightning-Struck Heart. I was a fan of Greg before this but I think this is my favorite from him to this point!! Perfection in audio. ❤️
I got a lot of audio/ebooks for Christmas and my birthday from my awesome friends, so I am going to be enjoying myself for a while here. Best friends ever! 🥰
*runs to the next one!*
****
1st read January 2018
This was smart, funny and lol-wonderful! Loved the world, plot, terrific (and hilarious) characters and excellent writing! I'll be *im*patiently waiting for more of this series!
I didn't think this could possibly get better, but when I'm wrong, I'm wrong in a big way! Everything is better when Greg Boudreaux/Tremblay is reading!! 😍 This was ah-maz-ing, I don't think I've ever heard characters more perfectly voiced since Michael Lesley for The Lightning-Struck Heart. I was a fan of Greg before this but I think this is my favorite from him to this point!! Perfection in audio. ❤️
I got a lot of audio/ebooks for Christmas and my birthday from my awesome friends, so I am going to be enjoying myself for a while here. Best friends ever! 🥰
*runs to the next one!*
****
1st read January 2018
This was smart, funny and lol-wonderful! Loved the world, plot, terrific (and hilarious) characters and excellent writing! I'll be *im*patiently waiting for more of this series!
February 4, 2018
So Funny and Creative!
This book is like Piers Anthony’s Xanth series for grown ups!!
Imagine a magical realm where just about every type of magical creature exists, sex abounds, unicorns are evil, and demons civilized and you have this book. Also, try to picture a fairy and a dragon having sex. It’s hard, I know....male fairy, female dragon shifter....fairy as big as your hand....it’s a definite brain teaser. I still can’t picture it, but the result of that glorious union is Twig Starfig. Half dragon, half fairy.
He tracks down lost objects, often gets scolded by his tiny father, and fumes that he can’t breathe fire nor shift into a full dragon.
Enter bed slave and his master, the evil unicorn, who hires Twig to find his horn. As collateral he offers up his pet, Quinn a failed human wizard, now in bondage to the unicorn.
On the quest for the horn they meet up with many interesting and unsavory characters.
These guys are funny together. The book is funny. The plot works. I liked it. If you like wacky fantasy at all, read this one, you won’t regret it.
Audiobook narration rocks!
This book is like Piers Anthony’s Xanth series for grown ups!!
Imagine a magical realm where just about every type of magical creature exists, sex abounds, unicorns are evil, and demons civilized and you have this book. Also, try to picture a fairy and a dragon having sex. It’s hard, I know....male fairy, female dragon shifter....fairy as big as your hand....it’s a definite brain teaser. I still can’t picture it, but the result of that glorious union is Twig Starfig. Half dragon, half fairy.
He tracks down lost objects, often gets scolded by his tiny father, and fumes that he can’t breathe fire nor shift into a full dragon.
Enter bed slave and his master, the evil unicorn, who hires Twig to find his horn. As collateral he offers up his pet, Quinn a failed human wizard, now in bondage to the unicorn.
On the quest for the horn they meet up with many interesting and unsavory characters.
These guys are funny together. The book is funny. The plot works. I liked it. If you like wacky fantasy at all, read this one, you won’t regret it.
Audiobook narration rocks!
September 30, 2017
~3.5 stars~
I have to say that I was thoroughly entertained the whole time while reading this one. The story is clever and fascinating.
What didn't work was the romance. I never got the feelz or connected to the characters. And the ending was so abrupt, I have no idea if they get from a HFN to a HEA.
For fans of fantasy, looking for a good story, I'd recommend. Lacking in the romance a smidge, though.
I have to say that I was thoroughly entertained the whole time while reading this one. The story is clever and fascinating.
What didn't work was the romance. I never got the feelz or connected to the characters. And the ending was so abrupt, I have no idea if they get from a HFN to a HEA.
For fans of fantasy, looking for a good story, I'd recommend. Lacking in the romance a smidge, though.
November 8, 2019
By Fairy Means or Foul by Megan Maslow
First book in the Starfig Investigation series.
Paranormal or fantasy M-M romantic detective type adventure. Sarcasm and strange events that are often humorous. I laughed out loud at the demon lusting over the unicorn.
A half dragon half fairy main character, a human wizard, a ghost parrot and a demon office admin. Quite the combination.
M-M sex is included. The first scene was detailed but after that it was referred to more with warmth and humor than a actual scene.
I listened to the audible version which was very well down. The various voices were distinctive and easy to picture. I really enjoyed my time listening and believe the narrator made the story for me.
I think I’ll listen to another from the series as long as it’s the same Greg Boudreaux.
First book in the Starfig Investigation series.
Paranormal or fantasy M-M romantic detective type adventure. Sarcasm and strange events that are often humorous. I laughed out loud at the demon lusting over the unicorn.
A half dragon half fairy main character, a human wizard, a ghost parrot and a demon office admin. Quite the combination.
M-M sex is included. The first scene was detailed but after that it was referred to more with warmth and humor than a actual scene.
I listened to the audible version which was very well down. The various voices were distinctive and easy to picture. I really enjoyed my time listening and believe the narrator made the story for me.
I think I’ll listen to another from the series as long as it’s the same Greg Boudreaux.
April 27, 2024
Uproarious!!!
I haven't had so much fun reading a book in a long time, so well written, Congratulations to Meghan Maslow!
This is that kind o story to have fun and I'm addicted to the genre, easy reading, and at the same time gets your attention through the whole book!
So many adventures, I was at the edge of my seat with the action, so well done, the comedy, I laughed several times (a lot), the romance, so sweet, it was so easy to love the MCs, superb sex scenes, it was a delight to read every word! Loved how she created compelling characters with a direction further from stereotypes.
This book is definitely one of my favourites!
Additionally I have this book on Audible, Greg Boudreaux did an excellent job, what an amazing acting, I just adore the way he can make very distinguish voices, I really appreciate when i can feel full commitment from the narrator!
Superb performance, one of my favourite narrators, he made the book even better, congratulations!!!!
Praises to Lou Harper for the art cover, I don't know which version is hers, but I love them all!!
6🌟
I haven't had so much fun reading a book in a long time, so well written, Congratulations to Meghan Maslow!
This is that kind o story to have fun and I'm addicted to the genre, easy reading, and at the same time gets your attention through the whole book!
So many adventures, I was at the edge of my seat with the action, so well done, the comedy, I laughed several times (a lot), the romance, so sweet, it was so easy to love the MCs, superb sex scenes, it was a delight to read every word! Loved how she created compelling characters with a direction further from stereotypes.
This book is definitely one of my favourites!
Additionally I have this book on Audible, Greg Boudreaux did an excellent job, what an amazing acting, I just adore the way he can make very distinguish voices, I really appreciate when i can feel full commitment from the narrator!
Superb performance, one of my favourite narrators, he made the book even better, congratulations!!!!
Praises to Lou Harper for the art cover, I don't know which version is hers, but I love them all!!
6🌟
April 8, 2020
2020 ebook review
First, there is a book 3 listed on goodreads!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So excited!!
A complimentary ebook was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I don't know about everyone else, but me, there are just some books I want to experience EVERYTHING. I first listened to this story and my enjoyment was beyond words. When the chance to actually read the written words on page came my way, I had to jump on the chance. Again, there are just some books I want to absorb in every way and I could SAVOR the written words. Take my time, practically molest the characters, lol. In audio it's harder to go back and re-listen to a passage as opposed to just flipping a page. When something is funny, or complicated, I want to read it several times to get the full impact.
These are characters and stories I will read over and over and never get tired of. Seriously, if you don't know this series, this needs to move to #1 on your to do list.
Highly, HIGHLY recommend. Oh, and I couldn't help but hear Greg's voice for the characters. 😁😏💋
Meghan Maslow is a SUPER talented author who I wish the best of success.
All the stars!!
June 2018 review
I couldn't help myself; I had to listen to this again. :) It's just as funny and sweet and awesome as the first time. I canNOT wait for book 2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Feb 2018 review
OMG THIS BOOK WAS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I command you with all the wizard wizarding I possess that you MUST read this!! And by read I mean you must listen to the audio. It was amazeballs!!!!
I can't even with this review. This book is beyond words - it was EPIC! I didn't want to stop listening, EVER, and will be crying in my pillow until the next book comes out.
You have a half-dragon, half-fairy private investigator Twig Starfig, you have Quinn Broomsparkle, a wannabe wizard who just needs his familiar to get his powers. asshole unicorns, ghost parrots, demons with fancy Brit accents, and ZOMBIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Like, what is even happening here? I am going to read this book again so hard!
This was an amazing adventure with hilarious characters and so many funny and clever twists and turns that I just laughed and laughed. Thankfully nobody saw me be a crazy loon because I was listening to this in my car and in my house so I had privacy to be as silly as I wanted.
All the stars in the world go to this book right here.
First, there is a book 3 listed on goodreads!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So excited!!
A complimentary ebook was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I don't know about everyone else, but me, there are just some books I want to experience EVERYTHING. I first listened to this story and my enjoyment was beyond words. When the chance to actually read the written words on page came my way, I had to jump on the chance. Again, there are just some books I want to absorb in every way and I could SAVOR the written words. Take my time, practically molest the characters, lol. In audio it's harder to go back and re-listen to a passage as opposed to just flipping a page. When something is funny, or complicated, I want to read it several times to get the full impact.
These are characters and stories I will read over and over and never get tired of. Seriously, if you don't know this series, this needs to move to #1 on your to do list.
Highly, HIGHLY recommend. Oh, and I couldn't help but hear Greg's voice for the characters. 😁😏💋
Meghan Maslow is a SUPER talented author who I wish the best of success.
All the stars!!
June 2018 review
I couldn't help myself; I had to listen to this again. :) It's just as funny and sweet and awesome as the first time. I canNOT wait for book 2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Feb 2018 review
OMG THIS BOOK WAS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I command you with all the wizard wizarding I possess that you MUST read this!! And by read I mean you must listen to the audio. It was amazeballs!!!!
I can't even with this review. This book is beyond words - it was EPIC! I didn't want to stop listening, EVER, and will be crying in my pillow until the next book comes out.
You have a half-dragon, half-fairy private investigator Twig Starfig, you have Quinn Broomsparkle, a wannabe wizard who just needs his familiar to get his powers. asshole unicorns, ghost parrots, demons with fancy Brit accents, and ZOMBIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Like, what is even happening here? I am going to read this book again so hard!
This was an amazing adventure with hilarious characters and so many funny and clever twists and turns that I just laughed and laughed. Thankfully nobody saw me be a crazy loon because I was listening to this in my car and in my house so I had privacy to be as silly as I wanted.
All the stars in the world go to this book right here.
November 12, 2017
This book was amazing!
When Twig is tasked with finding a unicorn's horn, he is given Quinn, a human servant as payment, what follows is their epic journey. Twig and Quinn are fantastic together. I haven't laughed so hard this week. I can't wait to read more , I need more of Pie and Bill too.
You have got to read this.
When Twig is tasked with finding a unicorn's horn, he is given Quinn, a human servant as payment, what follows is their epic journey. Twig and Quinn are fantastic together. I haven't laughed so hard this week. I can't wait to read more , I need more of Pie and Bill too.
You have got to read this.
November 16, 2017
I loved this.
It was balanced perfectly.
I laughed out loud.
I can't wait for more.
It was balanced perfectly.
I laughed out loud.
I can't wait for more.
November 29, 2017
Fabulous narrator, no matter what name he goes by. Another eargasm inducing experience for the record books.
January 30, 2021
Wow, this was unexpected.
*4.75 stars*
Before I begin, I just want to say that the BFMOF audiobook was by far THE BEST audiobook I have ever listened to.
When I say this was unexpected, what I mean is that yes, I had expected an interesting gay romance but I had just not expected the worldbuilding to be so brilliant and entertaining. BFMOF is a gay romance set in a fantastical world. It's historical fictionish. Nowhere has it been mentioned so but I think you can surmise as much from the way everyone dresses and how there is absolutely zero technology mentioned anywhere. It definitely can not be a modern setting.
I had such a fun time with his one. It was creative, hilarious and thoroughly entertaining. This book is escapism at its finest, if you will. From unicorns to dragons, to giants and cyclopes and evil sprites and fairies. You got them all. It had a sort of nostalgic edge because it reminded me very vaguely of my childhood. I mean the worldbuilding. Let's take the hilarious way everyone's names were named - Quinn Broomsparkle, Twig Starfig and especially the villains - Lapus Rainbowpebbles, Nyx Dabblepool. The word "Rainbowpebbles" and evil just do not go together. But that's precisely what I am talking about. It was nostalgic in the sense that it reminded me of all the super cool fantastical stuff I had read and watched as a kid. While reading this book, I sometimes felt like a kid who has entered this shimmery, wonder-like world. And that is sort of weird because this is NOT a children's book. It's got the same vibe until you have two guys having sex. So yes. What I am saying is that it was nice to see this sort of fantastical worldbuilding in an adult book.
I know all of it sounds super weird. Trust me, I am cringing as I write this nonsense but you will get me once you read the book. It's highly entertaining and cute. Characters are likeable. I suppose Quinn, at times, had an annoying personality. Getting mad and offended at every little thing. I usually can not stand such characters. But I barely gave two flying shits because as I said before - escapism at its finest. You take it all in and you love it. There is no other way.
*4.75 stars*
Before I begin, I just want to say that the BFMOF audiobook was by far THE BEST audiobook I have ever listened to.
When I say this was unexpected, what I mean is that yes, I had expected an interesting gay romance but I had just not expected the worldbuilding to be so brilliant and entertaining. BFMOF is a gay romance set in a fantastical world. It's historical fictionish. Nowhere has it been mentioned so but I think you can surmise as much from the way everyone dresses and how there is absolutely zero technology mentioned anywhere. It definitely can not be a modern setting.
I had such a fun time with his one. It was creative, hilarious and thoroughly entertaining. This book is escapism at its finest, if you will. From unicorns to dragons, to giants and cyclopes and evil sprites and fairies. You got them all. It had a sort of nostalgic edge because it reminded me very vaguely of my childhood. I mean the worldbuilding. Let's take the hilarious way everyone's names were named - Quinn Broomsparkle, Twig Starfig and especially the villains - Lapus Rainbowpebbles, Nyx Dabblepool. The word "Rainbowpebbles" and evil just do not go together. But that's precisely what I am talking about. It was nostalgic in the sense that it reminded me of all the super cool fantastical stuff I had read and watched as a kid. While reading this book, I sometimes felt like a kid who has entered this shimmery, wonder-like world. And that is sort of weird because this is NOT a children's book. It's got the same vibe until you have two guys having sex. So yes. What I am saying is that it was nice to see this sort of fantastical worldbuilding in an adult book.
I know all of it sounds super weird. Trust me, I am cringing as I write this nonsense but you will get me once you read the book. It's highly entertaining and cute. Characters are likeable. I suppose Quinn, at times, had an annoying personality. Getting mad and offended at every little thing. I usually can not stand such characters. But I barely gave two flying shits because as I said before - escapism at its finest. You take it all in and you love it. There is no other way.
March 19, 2023
So much fun!
This madcap mayhem investigation reminded me in a very good way of Robert Asprin's Myth Adventures series, packed full of humorous situations, crazy adventure and interesting characters.
Twig was annoying at times but he did learn as things went on and I loved Quinn from the start.
Throw in a horrible evul unicorn, a ghostly pirate parrot, a demon who wants to be a filing clerk and Twig's fae father who's determined to get his son involved in politics, and this was just fun from beginning to end.
This madcap mayhem investigation reminded me in a very good way of Robert Asprin's Myth Adventures series, packed full of humorous situations, crazy adventure and interesting characters.
Twig was annoying at times but he did learn as things went on and I loved Quinn from the start.
Throw in a horrible evul unicorn, a ghostly pirate parrot, a demon who wants to be a filing clerk and Twig's fae father who's determined to get his son involved in politics, and this was just fun from beginning to end.
September 17, 2018
This was more than wonderful, it made me laugh, cry and it was sexy as hell.
April 20, 2018
~ 4.5 stars ~
The most important thing to say about this book is that Greg Boudreaux's narration (also known as Greg Tremblay) was absolute perfection! He gets all the stars for this one and I honestly think I wouldn't have enjoyed the book so much had I read it.
Apart from that, this is a light, humorous fantasy story that is kinda crazy and weird. I mean, it includes a half-dragon/half-fairy (I don't even want to know how that worked, lol!) named Twig and a human named Quinn who is more special than appears at first glance. On behalf of an evil unicorn, they both venture out into the vast and scary world and they encounter a malfunctioning magic carpet, a ghost ship, giants, demons, pirates, zombies, and so much more on their journey.
Underneath all the humor and jokes are also serious topics that the MCs need to deal with like meeting family expectations, slavery, being born into a guild system, and being discriminated and shunned because you're different. But the humor and lots of one-liners ensure that the story doesn't get too heavy.
I have a feeling that this will be a love it/hate it book but I had lots of fun while listening to it and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series, hopefully also narrated by Greg Boudreaux.
The most important thing to say about this book is that Greg Boudreaux's narration (also known as Greg Tremblay) was absolute perfection! He gets all the stars for this one and I honestly think I wouldn't have enjoyed the book so much had I read it.
Apart from that, this is a light, humorous fantasy story that is kinda crazy and weird. I mean, it includes a half-dragon/half-fairy (I don't even want to know how that worked, lol!) named Twig and a human named Quinn who is more special than appears at first glance. On behalf of an evil unicorn, they both venture out into the vast and scary world and they encounter a malfunctioning magic carpet, a ghost ship, giants, demons, pirates, zombies, and so much more on their journey.
Underneath all the humor and jokes are also serious topics that the MCs need to deal with like meeting family expectations, slavery, being born into a guild system, and being discriminated and shunned because you're different. But the humor and lots of one-liners ensure that the story doesn't get too heavy.
I have a feeling that this will be a love it/hate it book but I had lots of fun while listening to it and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series, hopefully also narrated by Greg Boudreaux.
January 21, 2023
3.5 stars. This was weird! But, like, delightfully so. Amusingly and charmingly weird. My initial observation was "quirky," and that remains true.
Years ago, I kind of burned out on paranormal romance. I still return to ongoing beloved series (Kresley Cole and Nalini Singh forever and always) but rarely seek new ones. And I'm probably missing out, because By Fairy Means or Foul was such a fun read. Throw in the following ingredients for an eclectic and entertaining treat:
◆ Hybrid of a fairy and a dragon, Twig, who must retrieve a pretty (vile) unicorn's horn
◆ Quinn, human indentured servant to said unicorn - and also a former aspiring, but still potent, wizard-in-training
◆ Twig's hilarious, meddling politico father
◆ An inconvenient attraction and even more inconvenient growing feelings between Twig and Quinn
◆ Adventures with ghosts and demons and giants - oh my!
Certain aspects of Twig and Quinn's relationship moved too fast for me, and I wanted additional exploration of their connection. Basically more depth, less surface. The story also needed tighter editing, as errors would occasionally pull me out of the story. Nevertheless, these issues didn't hinder my overall enjoyment. Frankly, I had worried that the subject matter would prove disturbing, or that Twig would treat Quinn poorly, but their dynamic was handled sensitively and appropriately. If anything, Quinn was ultimately more hurtful toward Twig (and it provided some good angst that I hoped would carry over to book two, but it seems resolved...for now).
Regardless, this is a series that I definitely plan to revisit in the near future!
Years ago, I kind of burned out on paranormal romance. I still return to ongoing beloved series (Kresley Cole and Nalini Singh forever and always) but rarely seek new ones. And I'm probably missing out, because By Fairy Means or Foul was such a fun read. Throw in the following ingredients for an eclectic and entertaining treat:
◆ Hybrid of a fairy and a dragon, Twig, who must retrieve a pretty (vile) unicorn's horn
◆ Quinn, human indentured servant to said unicorn - and also a former aspiring, but still potent, wizard-in-training
◆ Twig's hilarious, meddling politico father
◆ An inconvenient attraction and even more inconvenient growing feelings between Twig and Quinn
◆ Adventures with ghosts and demons and giants - oh my!
Certain aspects of Twig and Quinn's relationship moved too fast for me, and I wanted additional exploration of their connection. Basically more depth, less surface. The story also needed tighter editing, as errors would occasionally pull me out of the story. Nevertheless, these issues didn't hinder my overall enjoyment. Frankly, I had worried that the subject matter would prove disturbing, or that Twig would treat Quinn poorly, but their dynamic was handled sensitively and appropriately. If anything, Quinn was ultimately more hurtful toward Twig (and it provided some good angst that I hoped would carry over to book two, but it seems resolved...for now).
Regardless, this is a series that I definitely plan to revisit in the near future!
April 6, 2019
This had so many things that don't normally work for me: shifters, fated mates, and a quasi-master/slave relationship, but a good dose of humor to lighten the mood really went a long way. Maslow's obviously not taking any of this too seriously, and takes every opportunity to subvert expectations. Unicorns aren't pure and good, sprites come with potty mouths and giants like to knit. Yes, it was predictable and campy but that also was part of its charm.
Twig is a half-fairy/half-dragon and doesn't really fit in anywhere. Quinn is a human who flunked out of wizard school to become an indentured servant and bed slave of one of Twig's customers. Quinn's feisty and determined, and Twig's a big softy with a possessive streak. As they galavant across the fairy realm to hunt down a lost unicorn horn, they meet one unusual character after another and even pick up a friend or two along the way.
While this was light and breezy for most of the story, it did allow time for some serious moments as needed. The resolution at the end leaves plenty of room for different conflicts and mayhem to come, and I look forward to the next one.
Twig is a half-fairy/half-dragon and doesn't really fit in anywhere. Quinn is a human who flunked out of wizard school to become an indentured servant and bed slave of one of Twig's customers. Quinn's feisty and determined, and Twig's a big softy with a possessive streak. As they galavant across the fairy realm to hunt down a lost unicorn horn, they meet one unusual character after another and even pick up a friend or two along the way.
While this was light and breezy for most of the story, it did allow time for some serious moments as needed. The resolution at the end leaves plenty of room for different conflicts and mayhem to come, and I look forward to the next one.
November 7, 2019
Freakin' Amazeballs!
This has it all, and I am sooo hoping that continues in the series. I laughed, giggled angry screeched and even had my toes curled. Seriously, there is a particular scene that was steamy!!
I love Twig, Quinn, Pie & Bill and want to join the the group! I want to go on adventures with these guys!!
I will definitely be checking out more of this authors work and recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy romp!
This has it all, and I am sooo hoping that continues in the series. I laughed, giggled angry screeched and even had my toes curled. Seriously, there is a particular scene that was steamy!!
I love Twig, Quinn, Pie & Bill and want to join the the group! I want to go on adventures with these guys!!
I will definitely be checking out more of this authors work and recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy romp!
Read
September 10, 2019DNF at 31%
Not my thing at all. The book is written very well, but I am just not interested in continuing. I was very curious about it, and now I am not. *sigh*
Not my thing at all. The book is written very well, but I am just not interested in continuing. I was very curious about it, and now I am not. *sigh*
January 16, 2018
Similar books: Lord Mouse, Thick as Thieves
This book is a light humorous adventure/quest.
Brandsome the Unicorn lost his horn. He hires a PI named Twig, half-dragon/half-elf, who takes the job and promises to find the horn in question and bring it back.
Being put down as a collateral for down payment, Quinn, the unicorn's human sex slave, takes on the role of a side-kick to Twig.
After three years of slavery and abuse, Quinn is happy for a short break, even more so because he adores his handsome new (if temporary) master. Of course, there are flashbacks and discussions of slavery under unicorn's hoof, but Quinn is living in the moment and enjoying his short freedom, not wanting to dwell on his misery. Twig treats him like an equal, at the same time being a bit on over-protective side due to his dragon-half mating surges. Twig Starfig is tough and rough, but knows firsthand how the rest of the world treats those who don't fit in it perfectly.
The odd couple - a plain non-magical human pet and a half-breed - travels around the realm, playing dangerous card games with elves, boarding ghost ships, fighting zombies, drinking tea with cyclopes and making acquaintances with demons in penis-shaped castles (yep, that's a thing!).
There is a bit of angst in the end, seeing how Quinn can't go back to Brandsome-the-Unicorn, not if Twig has any say in it, but mostly this book is about adventure and how it brings two odd creatures together. Love conquers all, they say =) Well, that and a very influential father-elf ;)
This book is a light humorous adventure/quest.
Brandsome the Unicorn lost his horn. He hires a PI named Twig, half-dragon/half-elf, who takes the job and promises to find the horn in question and bring it back.
Being put down as a collateral for down payment, Quinn, the unicorn's human sex slave, takes on the role of a side-kick to Twig.
After three years of slavery and abuse, Quinn is happy for a short break, even more so because he adores his handsome new (if temporary) master. Of course, there are flashbacks and discussions of slavery under unicorn's hoof, but Quinn is living in the moment and enjoying his short freedom, not wanting to dwell on his misery. Twig treats him like an equal, at the same time being a bit on over-protective side due to his dragon-half mating surges. Twig Starfig is tough and rough, but knows firsthand how the rest of the world treats those who don't fit in it perfectly.
The odd couple - a plain non-magical human pet and a half-breed - travels around the realm, playing dangerous card games with elves, boarding ghost ships, fighting zombies, drinking tea with cyclopes and making acquaintances with demons in penis-shaped castles (yep, that's a thing!).
There is a bit of angst in the end, seeing how Quinn can't go back to Brandsome-the-Unicorn, not if Twig has any say in it, but mostly this book is about adventure and how it brings two odd creatures together. Love conquers all, they say =) Well, that and a very influential father-elf ;)
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