This was a fun read. I enjoyed the different perspective of a human trying to fit into a paranormal world. I'll definitely continue with the series. ( )

Fun urban fantasy and a perfect audio for marathon cookie baking. ( )

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Three Mages and a Margarita

Tori has experienced plenty of rude customers, and they’ve all cost her a job. Of course, her temper doesn’t exactly help. Apparently, management doesn’t appreciate throwing food at them. Jobless Tori finds a job ad for a bartender. It’s not in the best part of town, but she’s running out of options. Little does she know it's a guild filled with supernatural customers. That is until she tosses the first drink in their face.

Tori’s attitude and quick temper are such a treat to read. Tori’s a genuinely nice person, she just doesn’t take grief from anyone. And with the new crowd, she finds herself in, her temper is an asset. It also means there are quite a few times when Tori finds herself in over her head. But her temper gives Tori a slight edge. None of the supernaturals expect her to run into danger fists flying. She does take some hard hits, but despite it all, she still rushes into danger when no one else is able to.

And the dynamics between characters are a delight. There’s flirting and good natured banter as Tori builds the foundations of friendship with three mages who become her allies in the guild. They introduce Tori to the magical side of the community, and the various types of magic. Being the only human in the guild means there’s plenty for Tori to learn. But the reader isn’t overwhelmed by the information. There’s just enough given for the reader to understand the basics of the magical world, much like Tori learning for the first time.

There’s also an air of mystery surrounding the first novel as a kidnapping attempt goes awry. And of course, Tori ends up dragged into it. As she sees the events unfold Tori attacks a mage with none other than an umbrella. But it establishes some of the dirtier politics surrounding the guilds, and the extent of danger Tori may find herself involved in if she chooses to keep her job. She is only human after all, and it puts her at a major disadvantage. Yet, it also provides plenty of room for Tori to develop as the series progresses.

Three Mages and a Margarita is a quick and easy read with plenty of action and comedy. Witnessing Tori hold her own amongst the magical community is a fun ride. And as she begins to form connections with the guild members, there is a definite theme of found family being established. I can’t wait to see what is in store for Tori in the next novel. ( )

Solid 3.5 stars. Well written urban fantasy with likeable characters and interesting plot. Tori was bold and snarky. I liked her well enough but there wasn't quite enough character development - we don't really get enough of her backstory until the end and I'm not sure I really connected with her specifically. I liked the boys, they were funny.

I'm not holding my breath for the romance. I really hate love triangles. And harems. Reverse or otherwise. But Tori and Aaron and Ezra (and the tiniest bit Kai) were flirty rather than serious - it was easy enough to ignore. But that's my pet peeve rather than a judgement of this book. I've read the Steel and Stone series by this author so I know she's more than capable of weaving a love triangle in the least offensive way possible. I just really hate them. I'm more of a soulmate kind of gal.

I liked the boys and Sin and the rest of the characters - although there's not a whole lot of character development for any of them. But there is a lot of plot. The plot was good and I liked the world building. The alchemical aspect was cool and I hope there's more of it in further installments. I liked Aaron freely admitting he was only saved thanks to Tori and that he was comfortable enough to give her credit where due. I liked Tori's willingness to jump into the fray even while seriously outgunned. I wanted to see more of Justin and the history of his relationship with Tori as well. I'm curious to see how much he knows about the magical community and what notes Tori and him will compare.

While this is urban fantasy, I would categorise it as what I've been calling 'light urban fantasy'. It's not as crass, it's not as sexual and is more fit for a young adult audience. There's not enough fantasy to just label it plain fantasy but it's not dark enough for full on urban. Hence 'light urban fantasy'. It also makes it easier to endure love triangles because it's harmless flirting rather than serious action.

Overall solid effort, can't wait to read the rest of the series. ( )

After reading "Taming Demons for beginners," I decided to go back, and read Marie's books in chronological order as the author recommended. Although it was difficult to step away from Robin and Zylar, once more Marie introduced an amazing and engaging cast of characters and a story loaded with enough action and humour to keep me coming. I loved Tori, and the spicy trio of mages who become her friends/ bodyguards. Can't wait to see what comes next! ( )