*squeal*I have an unholy number of tags on this one. But that's alright, because I loved it. I admit, the whole fuzzy-feeling was probably magnified 100x over because I was/am reading a rather. . . difficult book at the same time.
I also admit that I was rather worried to read this, because, though I won't quote directly from the review, someone said that this was a less 'easy' read than Duck!.
I freely admit that I am a total wuss. So I was pretty much scared to death that suddenly the series would take a turn onto a darker road. Which, logically, is pretty absurd.
Thank god it wasn't actually like that.
True, Ms Dare didn't go for an almost-perfectly smooth road like in Duck!, but rather, it had these delicious tidbits of complications, setbacks (like both of their stubborn natures, Kane's addiction) that never really left me fearing the chance of a less-than HEA.
What I also adored was the important role Ori and Raynard played in regards to the story. They were exquisite together. Almost like the couple you always think "Well, shit. I wanna have that. I wanna be like that." Not that I'm actually pining for a D/S sort of relationship. . .
I think I fell even deeper in love with them. If that's possible. It was incredibly lovely to see how much Ori has grown as well, and seeing him speak in the council almost confidently, yet also play the perfectly submissive counterpart to Reynard.
But enough ranting about Ori and Raynard because Everet and Kane were absolutely fucking adorable and made for each other. Mhmm. Perfect. Loved them and I loved the little build up in their romance. They perfectly complimented each other, though it took a while to open their eyes up to this.
I think one of the main differences between Duck! and Magpie, is that the relationship is set up at the very beginning (at the agreement of them both) in Duck!, whilst in Magpie, the story line really was mainly working up to a stage where they both had feelings, could admit it, and actually have a proper relationship. (And also helping Kane get his game up, as well)
I think this book (and series) is a wonderful angst-free gorgeous read that all BDSM lovers and maybe even gaymance readers who want to try something. . . more should read. Haha
I recommend that you start with the first in the series, Duck!, though.