One of my favourite genres of books is when a real, modern-day setting is depicted with other elements going on beneath the surface. In The Veils of Valoria it feels extra special, given that a lot of the action takes place in my beloved Teesside. Reading about Middlesbrough and Guisborough (complete with bonus supernatural activity) was a fantastic treat. I loved the fact I could visualise some of the places the characters visited. There’s even an appearance by our local specialty, a parmo! The fantasy elements are thorough and well thought out and the writer has obviously taken time to establish the lore and legend of her creation before embarking on the novel. This gives an air of confidence to the writing, helping the reader feel like they are in safe hands with the storytelling. (Book Tour Reviewer Michelle Marshall)
The beginning starts very late into the story, with a lot of information that we don’t entirely understand. Who are the Fallen? Why is this guy here? It does start to iron itself out but I imagine that first chapter is going to get some readers thinking they picked up a Book 2, not a Book 1. The premise is imaginative, with ghost guardians, a normal heroine who dreams of the otherworld hero, and then all the characters in the background who are driving the story. I particularly appreciated the good villain, Kane. The romance was a smidge too much for me, a little too Insta-love, but I am fairly romance averse so take my curmudgeonliness with a pinch of salt. This is a well-paced, imaginative, action packed fantasy. (Book Tour Reviewer Eryn McConnell)
A gripping book that starts from the get go with an intense character and as equally intense villains. We meet Finn, a talented Tracker trying desperately to save and protect Rowan, a human woman who doesn’t know the power she has. The characters are well-described and their motivations fleshed out organically throughout the story. Finn and Rowan’s story and relationship shines strongly and while it initially seems like insta-love, especially from Rowan’s part, their interactions and dialogue with each other give solid proof that their destinies are meant to be entwined on a magical and spiritual level. There is a whole cast of villains, but we mostly follow Kane, 2nd in Command to the dreaded Master. The Master seems a bit cartoonish every now and then, or we don’t really get why he acts the way he does; but Kane is fully developed, and he is all the more creepy because he is a broken character who’s been through betrayal and injustice many times and is willing to do whatever it takes to become more powerful. The other characters feel well-fleshed out, Bessie and Biscuit were adorable, Mercadia is annoying but good-hearted, Charles is a delight. It’s hard to avoid fantasy tropes, and here we have a prophecy, a couple meant to save the world, and evil minions after them. Yet, the author navigates these tropes with a fresh touch; the magical system and world building was well planned and felt grounded. The scenes all flow well; never once was I bored. The pacing was just right; the alternate chapters from Kane, Rowan and Finn felt right and suited the plot. I can’t wait for the sequel to come out, as that ending was a definite cliff hanger! (Book Tour Reviewer Sophie Jupillat Posey)
Haunted by a mystery woman, and with his own magical world of Valoria threatened by destruction at the hand of Evil forces, Tracker Finn’s latest challenge could be his greatest yet. Under the watch of the notorious Council, Finn is sent through a portal to another world in order to fulfil an ancient prophecy – or all will be lost. He is destined to take on the dark forces with the mystery woman by his side. Magical and powerful, McKay has created a new world for her characters. Her writing will draw you in on their adventure as you journey through the book. I’d have no problem recommending this to anyone, even if the genre wasn’t their favourite. (Book Tour Reviewer Yvonne Marrs)
An imaginative tale set in a recognizable North Eastern England, the Veils of Valoria features an interesting premise – wherein the heroine meets the literal man of her dreams – and a memorable villain. The narrative woven together is complex, but grounded in scenes that will feel familiar to those who’ve lived in the North. (Book Tour Reviewer Tim Marshall)
We award 4.5 stars.
