What do you think?
Rate this book
Elemental Assassin #14
Bitter Bite
Which is stronger: blood ties or a battle-tested friendship?
It’s not easy being queen bee of an underworld abuzz with crooks and killers. Wielding my potent Ice and Stone elemental magic will only get me so far—my real secret is my tight-knit makeshift family, a motley crew of cops and criminals, dwarves and playboys. My foster brother Finnegan Lane is my right-hand man, but when his suddenly not-dead relative comes back into the picture, I’m the one on the outside looking in.
It’s funny how life works: one minute your best friend is rock-steady, and the next he’s doe-eyed and buying into this whole loving-relative routine to the point of ignoring you. I’d like to be happy for Finn, I really would. But all of my instincts are telling me that beneath the syrupy sweet demeanor and old-fashioned charm, this sudden interloper is planning something. The whole shtick leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. This person might have avoided the grave once, but I’ll put anyone who hurts Finn in the ground—for good.
It’s not easy being queen bee of an underworld abuzz with crooks and killers. Wielding my potent Ice and Stone elemental magic will only get me so far—my real secret is my tight-knit makeshift family, a motley crew of cops and criminals, dwarves and playboys. My foster brother Finnegan Lane is my right-hand man, but when his suddenly not-dead relative comes back into the picture, I’m the one on the outside looking in.
It’s funny how life works: one minute your best friend is rock-steady, and the next he’s doe-eyed and buying into this whole loving-relative routine to the point of ignoring you. I’d like to be happy for Finn, I really would. But all of my instincts are telling me that beneath the syrupy sweet demeanor and old-fashioned charm, this sudden interloper is planning something. The whole shtick leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. This person might have avoided the grave once, but I’ll put anyone who hurts Finn in the ground—for good.
374 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 23, 2016
About the author
Jennifer Estep
94 books11.8k followersJennifer Estep is a New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author who prowls the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/yyj59omw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_es...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep
Amazon: https://amzn.to/39lCyX6
BookBub: https://tinyurl.com/y4dm3zso
Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/y638q98k
Jennifer's blog: https://tinyurl.com/2dj4afb
Jennifer's newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-...
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/yyj59omw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_es...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep
Amazon: https://amzn.to/39lCyX6
BookBub: https://tinyurl.com/y4dm3zso
Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/y638q98k
Jennifer's blog: https://tinyurl.com/2dj4afb
Jennifer's newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-...
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
August 5, 2016
*** 4 ***
Weekly buddy read with the bloodthirsty assassin-loving folks over at BB&B . I love you, guys!
Here we are. 14 books into the series and still every book has brought something to the table that a reader would enjoy one way or another. If you are fan of the series, by this point you know that the books are typical formulaic - Gin is minding her own business, running her restaurant The Pork Pit, hanging out with the gang; bad guy shows and either attacks her or one of her loved ones; Gin gets pissed and goes either on protective or vengeful mode; battle ensues; Gin comes out on top... The end. <------ None of this is a spoiler, it it just how it is.
Then why, you would ask, do we, the readers of the series, continue reading it and mostly rate the subsequent books reasonably high? Because, like a pair of comfortable shoes, or beloved TV series, or the neighborhood coffee house where you show up once in a while and always have friends to talk to, this series has become part of our daily lives and we always look forward to getting another snippet of news or update on their well-being, or just knowing that they are there makes the world seem to be just the way it is supposed to be... It is familiar and at the same time, it always brings emotions with it.
One of the most beloved of our characters, Finn, Gin Blanco's foster brother and larger than life banker, snappy dresser, and flirt extraordinaire, has been the life of the party since book one and every time when on page, manages to steal the scene, becomes the focus of this installment in the series. His easygoing ways and smarmy, but somehow charming manner has stolen the hearts of all who love the Elemental Assassin World. You can rely on him to be there and make you smile, no matter the situation. I think this is why this book was so emotional for some of us, because we get to see a side of him that is very different from whom we know him to be.
All of his life Finn believed his mother was dead. Imagine the shock when he discovers that his favorite new client, Deirdre Shaw, a very powerful Ice Elemental, a diva with a capital D, turns out to actually be his mother!!! I give Jennifer Estep props for making a very emotional case for Finn's deep, wrenching desire to be loved by the woman who has given him birth, despite it bringing out to the surface some not so attractive qualities of his character... Gin, Bria, Jo-Jo and all of the gang are very weary and worn him of her insincerity, backed up by a very emotional letter left behind by his father, Fletcher, which explicitly states not to trust her, no matter what. However, Finn is taken over by a fierce longing for a mother, and goes as far as hurting all of those women's feelings by disregarding their opinions, dismissing their presence and straight-up ignoring them...
... A bone-deep longing that worried me even more than all the pretty words Deirdre was spouting. In that moment, Finn seemed . . . vulnerable, in a way that I had never seen him be vulnerable before....
He goes as far as acting almost exactly as Owen did towards Gin, when she had to make some very difficult decisions about the sick ex-girlfriend of his, Selina... You would think all of the past examples would make him stop and think about what she is saying, but alas, he has to go through the learning curve himself, before he admits reality... Thankfully, Gin is on the ball and her loyalty and love for him stops her from lowering her guard and is prepared for the inevitable betrayal to come...
...He grinned at me again, even as tears dripped down his bruised, bloody cheeks. “I’m sorry, Gin,” he mumbled through his split lips. “I’m so sorry. You were right, and I was wrong. She was using me the whole time . . . the whole damn time . . .”...
Gin is unwavering in her loyalty to her family and friends, which is the most attractive feature of the series as a whole. However, it is also one of her biggest weaknesses when it comes to her predictability of what can bait her and how to get her riled up, which her enemies have began using as a leverage and strategical strength for their side. In order for her to minimize damages, her gang has to start trusting her more and relying not only on her knives, but her intuition as well, not constantly trying to say that she is just being paranoid. After all, history and facts speak for themselves and they show a steady evidence that she is usually wright when it comes to threats... Listen to her, people!!!
Overall, another solid entry in the EA series and a bit more emotional then most... Estep keeps on giving us just enough bait to keep us interested and the action always delivers in the entertainment front. If you are a UF fan, and do not mind some baddy of the week take-down action, this is for you! There is always use for those silverstone knives and they usually cut right on target:):):)
I wish all of you Happy Reading and much Joy!!!
Weekly buddy read with the bloodthirsty assassin-loving folks over at BB&B . I love you, guys!
Here we are. 14 books into the series and still every book has brought something to the table that a reader would enjoy one way or another. If you are fan of the series, by this point you know that the books are typical formulaic - Gin is minding her own business, running her restaurant The Pork Pit, hanging out with the gang; bad guy shows and either attacks her or one of her loved ones; Gin gets pissed and goes either on protective or vengeful mode; battle ensues; Gin comes out on top... The end. <------ None of this is a spoiler, it it just how it is.
Then why, you would ask, do we, the readers of the series, continue reading it and mostly rate the subsequent books reasonably high? Because, like a pair of comfortable shoes, or beloved TV series, or the neighborhood coffee house where you show up once in a while and always have friends to talk to, this series has become part of our daily lives and we always look forward to getting another snippet of news or update on their well-being, or just knowing that they are there makes the world seem to be just the way it is supposed to be... It is familiar and at the same time, it always brings emotions with it.
One of the most beloved of our characters, Finn, Gin Blanco's foster brother and larger than life banker, snappy dresser, and flirt extraordinaire, has been the life of the party since book one and every time when on page, manages to steal the scene, becomes the focus of this installment in the series. His easygoing ways and smarmy, but somehow charming manner has stolen the hearts of all who love the Elemental Assassin World. You can rely on him to be there and make you smile, no matter the situation. I think this is why this book was so emotional for some of us, because we get to see a side of him that is very different from whom we know him to be.
All of his life Finn believed his mother was dead. Imagine the shock when he discovers that his favorite new client, Deirdre Shaw, a very powerful Ice Elemental, a diva with a capital D, turns out to actually be his mother!!! I give Jennifer Estep props for making a very emotional case for Finn's deep, wrenching desire to be loved by the woman who has given him birth, despite it bringing out to the surface some not so attractive qualities of his character... Gin, Bria, Jo-Jo and all of the gang are very weary and worn him of her insincerity, backed up by a very emotional letter left behind by his father, Fletcher, which explicitly states not to trust her, no matter what. However, Finn is taken over by a fierce longing for a mother, and goes as far as hurting all of those women's feelings by disregarding their opinions, dismissing their presence and straight-up ignoring them...
... A bone-deep longing that worried me even more than all the pretty words Deirdre was spouting. In that moment, Finn seemed . . . vulnerable, in a way that I had never seen him be vulnerable before....
He goes as far as acting almost exactly as Owen did towards Gin, when she had to make some very difficult decisions about the sick ex-girlfriend of his, Selina... You would think all of the past examples would make him stop and think about what she is saying, but alas, he has to go through the learning curve himself, before he admits reality... Thankfully, Gin is on the ball and her loyalty and love for him stops her from lowering her guard and is prepared for the inevitable betrayal to come...
...He grinned at me again, even as tears dripped down his bruised, bloody cheeks. “I’m sorry, Gin,” he mumbled through his split lips. “I’m so sorry. You were right, and I was wrong. She was using me the whole time . . . the whole damn time . . .”...
Gin is unwavering in her loyalty to her family and friends, which is the most attractive feature of the series as a whole. However, it is also one of her biggest weaknesses when it comes to her predictability of what can bait her and how to get her riled up, which her enemies have began using as a leverage and strategical strength for their side. In order for her to minimize damages, her gang has to start trusting her more and relying not only on her knives, but her intuition as well, not constantly trying to say that she is just being paranoid. After all, history and facts speak for themselves and they show a steady evidence that she is usually wright when it comes to threats... Listen to her, people!!!
Overall, another solid entry in the EA series and a bit more emotional then most... Estep keeps on giving us just enough bait to keep us interested and the action always delivers in the entertainment front. If you are a UF fan, and do not mind some baddy of the week take-down action, this is for you! There is always use for those silverstone knives and they usually cut right on target:):):)
I wish all of you Happy Reading and much Joy!!!
January 22, 2016
At the end of the last book in this series Spiders Trap a huge revelation concerning Gins 'brother' Finn occurred. Finn and Gin grew up together, are very close and yet when his apparently not dead relative shows up Finn changes from an astute business man to a totally blind, lacking in foresight fool! Yes I have to say this was very uncomfortable reading for me as I wanted to shake Finn. That guy is besotted and yet no matter what happens Gin still feels it's her place to try to save him from being hurt.
So here's Gin in charge of the unsavoury underworld and yet at times no one seems to even be slightly phased by her! She has proved herself countless times but still her enemies plot. The newest ice elemental in Ashland is only the tip of the iceberg though ( pun intended) as there's something else going down and Gin is unfortunately going to trip herself up getting the answers!
Gin has suffered so much in her life and yet here again we see her willing to go to the wall to save those she cares about. Flashbacks to her childhood with Finn had me wondering just how solid her relationship with him really is. I cannot say too much but relationships are put to the test and even Gins sister Bria is fleshed out in this story.
This book is part of a series that you really should read in order. Gin is a fabulous heroine and never gives up no matter what is thrown her way. Is she perfect? Well read this book and discover a major flaw or the is that weakness? I really enjoyed seeing the two sisters interact, Gins partner Owen is the perfect foil for he but Finn? Can we just say mummy issues? I had wondered if this series could keep going but with the way it ends, oh boy are readers in for fun and of course a little spider retribution!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
So here's Gin in charge of the unsavoury underworld and yet at times no one seems to even be slightly phased by her! She has proved herself countless times but still her enemies plot. The newest ice elemental in Ashland is only the tip of the iceberg though ( pun intended) as there's something else going down and Gin is unfortunately going to trip herself up getting the answers!
Gin has suffered so much in her life and yet here again we see her willing to go to the wall to save those she cares about. Flashbacks to her childhood with Finn had me wondering just how solid her relationship with him really is. I cannot say too much but relationships are put to the test and even Gins sister Bria is fleshed out in this story.
This book is part of a series that you really should read in order. Gin is a fabulous heroine and never gives up no matter what is thrown her way. Is she perfect? Well read this book and discover a major flaw or the is that weakness? I really enjoyed seeing the two sisters interact, Gins partner Owen is the perfect foil for he but Finn? Can we just say mummy issues? I had wondered if this series could keep going but with the way it ends, oh boy are readers in for fun and of course a little spider retribution!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
August 5, 2016
03/08/2016 Buddy read with my fellow UF addicts over at BB&B. I can’t believe that we are up to date with this series. I’m going to miss our weekly bloodthirsty assassin reads.
Possible spoilers ahead
I could tell you many stories about Deirdre. How we met. How happy she made me. How much I loved her.
How the bitter bite of her betrayal almost destroyed me.
Once again Gin is faced with an evil villain. But this time it’s not Gin who’s in danger, but her foster brother Finn. And Gin must be prepared to do what she does best, protecting her loved ones, even if this particular loved one doesn’t want her protection. Because there’s no way that Gin will allow anyone to hurt Finn, even if Finn’s mother appears to be harmless with a sickenly sweet charm.
“But something tells me there’s a lot more to Deirdre Shaw than just a mother trying to reconnect with her son.”
One of the things I love most about Gin is her unwavering loyalty to her friends and her family. She will do anything she has to, even go against their wishes, in order to protect them. And I loved how she fought to protect Finn.
It was sobering to see how Finn reacted when he was confronted by his supposedly dead mother. I could understand why he reacted the way he did, unwilling to believe that she was evil, but there were moments when I wanted to slap him for being so blind, for hurting Gin and the others. He made so many mistakes, because he wanted to believe so much that Deidre was good, that she loved him, and the way things played out, the way he was used, just broke my heart. He’s usually such a charmer, who never hurts anyone, and I don’t know how he’s going to forgive himself for the consequences to what happened because he refused to see the truth….
Now Deidre Shaw was a monstrous villain. She was brilliant, manipulative, extremely powerful and so very cold-hearted. She has no morals, no love for anyone but herself, and she didn’t care who she had to use to get the results she wanted. And I hated her. I hated how she hurt Fletcher and how she hurt Finn. And I wanted her to die slowly and painfully.
“Silvio is rather determined to ‘save you from yourself,’ as he puts it. Watch out, Gin. Next thing you know, he’ll be sewing GPS trackers into your underwear.”
“And I’m going to cheerfully throttle my overefficient assistant when he comes into work in the morning,” I growled.
This was quite an emotional book for me, and the action scenes were as great as always. I liked that Mallory and Lorelei was in this book and the things Mallory told Gin about her mother has me very intrigued. I loved the sweet moments between Gin and Bria, and seeing that the bond they had when they were children is still there and getting stronger. Silvio was as fantastic as always, and I just love this assistant of Gin, and how he makes sure he knows where she is at all times :-D
Again by the end of the book a big secret was revealed and I have no idea what all of this means and how it’s going to affect Gin and her friends. And what Gin and Bria’s mother had to do with this. But I can’t wait to find out!
I love this series! It’s definitely one of my favorite UF series’. The bloodthirsty Gin and her awesome friends have become part of my book family because I just adore them. Highly recommended if you love UF series’ with a kick-ass heroine who has no problem killing and fantastic secondary characters.
February 18, 2016
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
Finnegan Lane has been the most dependable character in Jennifer Estep’s ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN series. The rest of the cast have all had temporary moments of weakness, or lapses in judgment, even Gin Blanco. I’m not saying that he’s perfect because he’s not, but he’s never infuriated me to the point of wishing that he was next on the Spider’s hit list. I can’t say the same of other linchpin secondaries like Owen or Bria. So, he was definitely due, and BITTER BITE delivered his misadventure in style along with a new plot arc that I can’t wait to see bloom!
I have no idea how many installments the author originally had planned because over the course of fourteen books many story lines have reached their conclusions, and yet Estep has somehow managed to not only keep the ball rolling, but also at a pretty decent clip. What I mean by that is I enjoyed reading this volume as much as the first. The high levels of action, entertainment, mystery and feels haven’t dropped in the least! This title tied into previous threads involving Mab Monroe, Fletcher and Eira Snow while weaving another biggie that I can’t comment on because I like to keep it spoiler-free.
Gin underwent a bit of a transformation too; she relied on her Stone and Ice magic more than her knives in this novel which is unusual for her. She tends to be a physical fighter, and even though she does tap in to her Elemental juju regularly, it was nice seeing her fully embrace it. I thought that her reaction to Finn’s long-lost relative was mature, and aside from getting a little emotional (understandable), Blanco dealt with the situation like a champ. There were flashbacks of her and Lane’s childhood together too which I loved.
Finn’s blunder was totally relatable, and easy to accept because anyone in his situation would probably make the same mistake. Yes, I got annoyed when he got testy with Blanco, or blew off the Deveraux sisters; however, he remained realistic with his expectations, and when all was said and done, he apologized for his crappy behaviour. Lane also showed up when it mattered! Plus, to paraphrase the blurb: I wanted to be happy for him, really I did. Similar to Gin, I saw the potential for disaster, but given the importance of family, I had hoped for the best.
Read BITTER BITE, you’ll have a stabbing-ly good time!
Finnegan Lane has been the most dependable character in Jennifer Estep’s ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN series. The rest of the cast have all had temporary moments of weakness, or lapses in judgment, even Gin Blanco. I’m not saying that he’s perfect because he’s not, but he’s never infuriated me to the point of wishing that he was next on the Spider’s hit list. I can’t say the same of other linchpin secondaries like Owen or Bria. So, he was definitely due, and BITTER BITE delivered his misadventure in style along with a new plot arc that I can’t wait to see bloom!
I have no idea how many installments the author originally had planned because over the course of fourteen books many story lines have reached their conclusions, and yet Estep has somehow managed to not only keep the ball rolling, but also at a pretty decent clip. What I mean by that is I enjoyed reading this volume as much as the first. The high levels of action, entertainment, mystery and feels haven’t dropped in the least! This title tied into previous threads involving Mab Monroe, Fletcher and Eira Snow while weaving another biggie that I can’t comment on because I like to keep it spoiler-free.
Gin underwent a bit of a transformation too; she relied on her Stone and Ice magic more than her knives in this novel which is unusual for her. She tends to be a physical fighter, and even though she does tap in to her Elemental juju regularly, it was nice seeing her fully embrace it. I thought that her reaction to Finn’s long-lost relative was mature, and aside from getting a little emotional (understandable), Blanco dealt with the situation like a champ. There were flashbacks of her and Lane’s childhood together too which I loved.
Finn’s blunder was totally relatable, and easy to accept because anyone in his situation would probably make the same mistake. Yes, I got annoyed when he got testy with Blanco, or blew off the Deveraux sisters; however, he remained realistic with his expectations, and when all was said and done, he apologized for his crappy behaviour. Lane also showed up when it mattered! Plus, to paraphrase the blurb: I wanted to be happy for him, really I did. Similar to Gin, I saw the potential for disaster, but given the importance of family, I had hoped for the best.
Read BITTER BITE, you’ll have a stabbing-ly good time!
March 15, 2016
4 - 4.5 ★'s
Another day, another kill in the life of The Spider. Things have basically been the same ol', same ol' for Gin...having to deal with the underworld and all of its criminal types but nothing can prepare her for this particular case.
Ughh...I just wanted to cover my eyes reading about everything that went on with Finn. It was so heartbreaking but I'm glad that Gin was there for him. I actually got a little teary eyed reading Fletcher's letter to Finn.
There was an interesting twist with The Circle. I'm really curious to see where things go. J.E. Included the beginning of Unraveled coming out August 30th and there is a novella, Unwanted, coming out July 18th and it's from Finn's POV....woohooo!
And I can't forget to mention Owen. There was a nice HOT scene between the two of them but I'm always left wanting more :(
Favorite quote:
♥ "I would suffer through it all again—and again—if it meant having you as my son."
Another day, another kill in the life of The Spider. Things have basically been the same ol', same ol' for Gin...having to deal with the underworld and all of its criminal types but nothing can prepare her for this particular case.
Ughh...I just wanted to cover my eyes reading about everything that went on with Finn. It was so heartbreaking but I'm glad that Gin was there for him. I actually got a little teary eyed reading Fletcher's letter to Finn.
There was an interesting twist with The Circle. I'm really curious to see where things go. J.E. Included the beginning of Unraveled coming out August 30th and there is a novella, Unwanted, coming out July 18th and it's from Finn's POV....woohooo!
And I can't forget to mention Owen. There was a nice HOT scene between the two of them but I'm always left wanting more :(
Favorite quote:
♥ "I would suffer through it all again—and again—if it meant having you as my son."
April 4, 2017
Click Banner to Enter Giveaway for
Complete set of the Elemental Assassin Series
$25 Amazon gift card
(Series & gift card are open to US/Canada )
3 signed copies of BITTER BITE
(signed copies are US only)
1 Copy of
BITTER BITE
(Open to US/Canada Mailing Addresses Only)
February 22 - 29, 2016
Bitter Bite is the fourteenth book in the Elemental Assassin series and is proof positive this series is only gaining momentum as it progresses. I flat out love this series, I loved Bitter Bite. If Jennifer Estep writes it, I’m there.
You never thought anything could ever come between Gin and Finn, but when a presumed dead family member returns she creates all kinds of trouble for Gin. This predicament provides the perfect opportunity to see deep into Gin’s and Finn’s history, even deeper insight into the relationship we thought we knew so well.
Gin is also dealing with her new role as the leader of Ashland’s underworld, a relationship she has been pulled into kicking and screaming. A new, unknown ice elemental is making some waves in Gin’s other relationships and causing some serious questions about her ability to rule said underworld.
At 400 pages, I still didn’t get my fill of Estep's Elemental Assassin world. Captivating, action intense, visionary world building and amazingly humanized characters makes Bitter Bite a must read for 2016.
I received this ARC copy of Bitter Bite from Pocket Books in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication Feb. 23, 2016.
My Rating: 5 Stars
Written by: Jennifer Estep
Series: Elemental Assassin
Sequence in Series: Book 14
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Pocket Books
Publication Date: February 23, 2016
ISBN-10: 1501111272
ISBN-13: 978-1501111273
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Bitter-Elementa...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bitte...
For Reviews and More Check out: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 18, 2016
WOW….I made it to #14 thanks completely to the crew at BB&B I totally wouldn’t have made it here without you guys to buddy read with.
Things I’m Happy About:
✫ - The bad guys have been pretty good recently. Instead of the main driving force being threat of rape which is how the first books started out this one the bad guy is a woman capable of some major emotion manipulation of Finn. And like Gin it was hard to tell what was heartfelt with her and what was just fake.
✫- It was interesting to see Gin’s crew torn a little as Finn struggles with his mommy issues and try to decide where to fall. It was also interesting that I didn’t figure out the final plan until we were well into it. I’ve guess most of the final plots up to this point.
✫ - Silvio is the best assistant ever and I really like how well he assists an assassin that doesn’t really think she needs an assistant
✫ - The setup of the new big bad in the series. Yes….yes it is all very formulaic but it is good that now Gin will in the future have something bigger to go after than the random bad guy who strolls into Ashland.
Things that bug:
☠ - Okay so the repetition is so much better than it used to be but it is still there. Is it just me that has this pet peeve that Gin and Owen are still using condoms and so we get that line in every book about white pills and condoms? They have been together for like 11 books now. Get a test and move on.
☠ - Fletcher has left all of these clues for Gin along the way. This wouldn’t bug except he didn’t have any kind of power and so I get a bit bugged the solution usually comes from fletcher or his notes he hid around his office for Gin. I get it if he had some air elemental power of precognition so that he knew to leave them but he didn’t so now that he has been dead quite a while it just seems like an easy writing cop out.
☠ - The new bad guys. Yes I like there is a new overlaying plot arc. She needed one if she was going to continue this series on. BUT….there seemed to be some glaring discrepancies between this new ‘understanding’ of the past and some of the early books. Maybe since it if 9 books after Mabs death we aren’t supposed to care but I just thought it could have been handled a little better.
Overall
The writing in the series is definitely getting better but this isn’t a series that I’m going to read and reread time and time again. Once is enough since I don’t think on a reread I’ll find anything extra I missed the first time through. Still it is an engaging series once you get through some of the earlier books.
Things I’m Happy About:
✫ - The bad guys have been pretty good recently. Instead of the main driving force being threat of rape which is how the first books started out this one the bad guy is a woman capable of some major emotion manipulation of Finn. And like Gin it was hard to tell what was heartfelt with her and what was just fake.
✫- It was interesting to see Gin’s crew torn a little as Finn struggles with his mommy issues and try to decide where to fall. It was also interesting that I didn’t figure out the final plan until we were well into it. I’ve guess most of the final plots up to this point.
✫ - Silvio is the best assistant ever and I really like how well he assists an assassin that doesn’t really think she needs an assistant
✫ - The setup of the new big bad in the series. Yes….yes it is all very formulaic but it is good that now Gin will in the future have something bigger to go after than the random bad guy who strolls into Ashland.
Things that bug:
☠ - Okay so the repetition is so much better than it used to be but it is still there. Is it just me that has this pet peeve that Gin and Owen are still using condoms and so we get that line in every book about white pills and condoms? They have been together for like 11 books now. Get a test and move on.
☠ - Fletcher has left all of these clues for Gin along the way. This wouldn’t bug except he didn’t have any kind of power and so I get a bit bugged the solution usually comes from fletcher or his notes he hid around his office for Gin. I get it if he had some air elemental power of precognition so that he knew to leave them but he didn’t so now that he has been dead quite a while it just seems like an easy writing cop out.
☠ - The new bad guys. Yes I like there is a new overlaying plot arc. She needed one if she was going to continue this series on. BUT….there seemed to be some glaring discrepancies between this new ‘understanding’ of the past and some of the early books. Maybe since it if 9 books after Mabs death we aren’t supposed to care but I just thought it could have been handled a little better.
Overall
The writing in the series is definitely getting better but this isn’t a series that I’m going to read and reread time and time again. Once is enough since I don’t think on a reread I’ll find anything extra I missed the first time through. Still it is an engaging series once you get through some of the earlier books.
February 24, 2016
Disappointed because Gin acted too stupid in this book for me to swallow. However, the characters are still really good. I'm not sure why Gin's relationship isn't progressing other than the author needs or wants Gin to live alone. I hope she doesn't break them up because she can't design a plot with Owen and Gin living together. Because I know tons of UFs were the couples beat the bad guys and live together even marry each other.
All in all, I live to read these series another day. I haven't quite given up hope yet.
All in all, I live to read these series another day. I haven't quite given up hope yet.
February 24, 2016
I’m happy to say that this book lives up to a pretty exciting premise. It’s all about Finn’s long lost mother, who is back from the dead and up to no good. Gin knows it. Bria knows it. Unfortunately, Finn DOESN’T know it. He is vulnerable in a way that we don’t normally see him, because like anyone would, he wants to believe his mother loves him. He wants the relationship with her that he has missed his entire life.
I enjoyed this book. It’s still in Gin’s first person POV, but in many ways this is Finn’s book. It’s all about his relationship with his mother; about how it affects Gin and Bria; about the mystery of how and why she left him –and what she wants from him now. And Gin is the same reliable, loyal protector she has always been. She tries to protect him in every way, but you know it’s a matter of time before it all blows up in her face… and his.
I really love Gin as a heroine. She is not only incredibly strong and brutal, she is unfailing in her loyalty. Which is why I want to kick her loved ones when they doubt her. (*ahem*) Yes, Finn, I am talking to you here. But Bria had her turn. As did Owen. And speaking of that, perhaps my favorite scene in the book has Owen and Finn facing off over doubting her. Such a guy conversation, but I loved it. They were both right. They’re both stupid.
Anyway, I also love how vital Fletcher still is in Gin’s life. The man has been dead since book one, but he is such a force in the story. He has made such a mark on Gin; he is still her touchstone. It makes me mourn the fact that we have only ever known him in her memories.
The actual mystery involving Finn’s mom was ok. It didn’t play out exactly as I thought, which is good. This was really more about what her manipulations meant for our characters… and it does a great job setting up the next phase of the series. It looks like everything is turning on its ear, and I’m very curious to see where Jennifer Estep will take the story next.
Rating: B
*ARC provided by publisher
I enjoyed this book. It’s still in Gin’s first person POV, but in many ways this is Finn’s book. It’s all about his relationship with his mother; about how it affects Gin and Bria; about the mystery of how and why she left him –and what she wants from him now. And Gin is the same reliable, loyal protector she has always been. She tries to protect him in every way, but you know it’s a matter of time before it all blows up in her face… and his.
I really love Gin as a heroine. She is not only incredibly strong and brutal, she is unfailing in her loyalty. Which is why I want to kick her loved ones when they doubt her. (*ahem*) Yes, Finn, I am talking to you here. But Bria had her turn. As did Owen. And speaking of that, perhaps my favorite scene in the book has Owen and Finn facing off over doubting her. Such a guy conversation, but I loved it. They were both right. They’re both stupid.
Anyway, I also love how vital Fletcher still is in Gin’s life. The man has been dead since book one, but he is such a force in the story. He has made such a mark on Gin; he is still her touchstone. It makes me mourn the fact that we have only ever known him in her memories.
The actual mystery involving Finn’s mom was ok. It didn’t play out exactly as I thought, which is good. This was really more about what her manipulations meant for our characters… and it does a great job setting up the next phase of the series. It looks like everything is turning on its ear, and I’m very curious to see where Jennifer Estep will take the story next.
Rating: B
*ARC provided by publisher
April 16, 2016
Spoilers
Boring, it was the the same old predictable plot, stale writing, bland relationships, and vanilla characters.
-Gin was her usual martyr, doormat, self-hating self. Again she thought everything was her fault and everyone was her responsibility. Finn was the latest of Gin's loved ones to walk all over her and make her feel like crap. Naturally, Gin let Finn get away with his douchery without him having to work to get back in her good books. He was just as bad as Bria and disloyal-weakling-loser Owen. I wonder which of Gin's loved ones will next treat her like crap? It will probably be JoJo who betrays her and bitches at her next. What made all the past and present douchery of Owen/Bria/Finn ten times worse was Gin always forgiving them without them ever earning back her trust - a lame apology and a sheepish look after massive betrayals and bitchiness is nowhere near enough to redeem characters.
-I swear Gin has gotten more stupid with each book, she missed the most obvious of clues and kept putting herself in dangerous situations, her stupidity was amazing.
-What was with everyone making out that Gin was paranoid and delusional? It made no sense when all her past 'paranoia' always turned out to be right. Why didn't her so called friends and family ever trust her? In every book she has to constantly prove herself to them. It's beyond tiresome.
-Owen was as bland and pointless as ever, he was just there in the background and seemed to go through the motions of playing boyfriend to Gin. He still hasn't recovered from being the worst love interest ever after that whole Selene rubbish. He'll always be a slimy, hypocritical, dull, two faced, cheating loser, who has quite a few times shown no concern or care for Gin when she's been near death or when he's thought she's actually dead. He really needs to be killed off, all he does is make Gin even more of a pathetic, weak doormat.
-Bria was more insufferable than usual, her acting like a good cop but at the same time being a vigilante when it suited her was very annoying. She was a holier than thou, self righteous cow, and I wish Gin had told her to stop acting like Little Miss Perfect when she was just as scummy as everyone else, if not more so because at least everyone else didn't act like they were goody two shoes.
-Where do Bria, Owen and co disappear to when Gin's fighting for her life? I swear they just calmly chill out somewhere else whilst she's half dead, and they only reluctantly bother to help her at the last minute.
-Didn't like the whole Circle twist, there was zero hint of there being an even bigger bad guy than Mab, there was no clue of them secretly controlling and running Ashland, and how could Gin be none the wiser in her line of work? And why would Fletcher never mention it to Gin? It felt like a huge retcon.
-The next book will be the same as this one, but instead of Finn's mum being the bad guy, it'll be the circle, who will be just as one dimensional and dull as all the past villains.
Boring, it was the the same old predictable plot, stale writing, bland relationships, and vanilla characters.
-Gin was her usual martyr, doormat, self-hating self. Again she thought everything was her fault and everyone was her responsibility. Finn was the latest of Gin's loved ones to walk all over her and make her feel like crap. Naturally, Gin let Finn get away with his douchery without him having to work to get back in her good books. He was just as bad as Bria and disloyal-weakling-loser Owen. I wonder which of Gin's loved ones will next treat her like crap? It will probably be JoJo who betrays her and bitches at her next. What made all the past and present douchery of Owen/Bria/Finn ten times worse was Gin always forgiving them without them ever earning back her trust - a lame apology and a sheepish look after massive betrayals and bitchiness is nowhere near enough to redeem characters.
-I swear Gin has gotten more stupid with each book, she missed the most obvious of clues and kept putting herself in dangerous situations, her stupidity was amazing.
-What was with everyone making out that Gin was paranoid and delusional? It made no sense when all her past 'paranoia' always turned out to be right. Why didn't her so called friends and family ever trust her? In every book she has to constantly prove herself to them. It's beyond tiresome.
-Owen was as bland and pointless as ever, he was just there in the background and seemed to go through the motions of playing boyfriend to Gin. He still hasn't recovered from being the worst love interest ever after that whole Selene rubbish. He'll always be a slimy, hypocritical, dull, two faced, cheating loser, who has quite a few times shown no concern or care for Gin when she's been near death or when he's thought she's actually dead. He really needs to be killed off, all he does is make Gin even more of a pathetic, weak doormat.
-Bria was more insufferable than usual, her acting like a good cop but at the same time being a vigilante when it suited her was very annoying. She was a holier than thou, self righteous cow, and I wish Gin had told her to stop acting like Little Miss Perfect when she was just as scummy as everyone else, if not more so because at least everyone else didn't act like they were goody two shoes.
-Where do Bria, Owen and co disappear to when Gin's fighting for her life? I swear they just calmly chill out somewhere else whilst she's half dead, and they only reluctantly bother to help her at the last minute.
-Didn't like the whole Circle twist, there was zero hint of there being an even bigger bad guy than Mab, there was no clue of them secretly controlling and running Ashland, and how could Gin be none the wiser in her line of work? And why would Fletcher never mention it to Gin? It felt like a huge retcon.
-The next book will be the same as this one, but instead of Finn's mum being the bad guy, it'll be the circle, who will be just as one dimensional and dull as all the past villains.
April 18, 2021
Finnegan Lane is one of my favorite characters in the Elemental Assassin series. Finn is a charismatic smart respectable investment banker by day & the Spider’s right hand man by night. He’s a sharp shooter & a grifter. Interpersonal skills are a prerequisite for anyone in any of Finn’s stations & Finnegan Lane has it in spades. Needless to say he's very successful in his chosen fields. His loyalty to the Spider is rock solid, mostly bc he’s an essential part of Gin’s personal life. Finnegan Lane is Gin Blanco's foster brother. Finn’s loyalty has been proven repeatedly &14 books into this series as a reader we have a good understanding of who Finnegan Lane is….or so we thought.
Interpersonal skills are not Gin’s strong suit but her loyalty is a fundamental part of her personality. Gin may be an assassin & what amounts to the Ashland underworld crime lord but she’s no cold blooded killer. She has strong core values, family & loyalty top among them. Gin has proven to be the most righteous criminal in Ashland.
Bitter Bite (Elemental Assassin #14) centers around trust & loyalty.
I normally happily devour Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin books. Clearly 14 books in sharing I’m a fan is redundant. However, I found it incredibly difficult to read the 14th installment in the Elemental Assassin series. If i’m honest I’d call it a painful read. Please don’t misunderstand describing my reading experience as painful is not a negative reflection on Jennifer Estep’s writing on the contrary. I experienced a wide range of emotions while reading this book, including but not limited to feelings of surprise, anger, betrayal & annoyance. At times the heartbreak was overwhelming. I forced myself to space my reading out in an effort to catch my emotional breath. lol
That said allow me to share a short general & high-level (to prevent spoilers) list of annoyances I had while reading Bitter Bite.
Finnegan Lane seemed to lack any self preservation. As a conman disbelief should be ingrained into his psyche. It seemed Finn enthusiastically allowed himself to be maneuvered.
Gin Blanco’s procrastination leads to unnecessary altercations.
Now the good
Jennifer Estep’s ability to surprise us 14 books into the series.
I rate this story 3.5/4 stars
FYI The audible version of this book was amazing! I rate that 4 solid stars. Narrated by: Lauren Fortgang Length: 10 hrs and 19 mins
The eARC was kindly provided to me by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
=========================================================
This book counts towards my Cliterary Genius A to Z book challenge. Letter b.
Interpersonal skills are not Gin’s strong suit but her loyalty is a fundamental part of her personality. Gin may be an assassin & what amounts to the Ashland underworld crime lord but she’s no cold blooded killer. She has strong core values, family & loyalty top among them. Gin has proven to be the most righteous criminal in Ashland.
Bitter Bite (Elemental Assassin #14) centers around trust & loyalty.
I normally happily devour Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin books. Clearly 14 books in sharing I’m a fan is redundant. However, I found it incredibly difficult to read the 14th installment in the Elemental Assassin series. If i’m honest I’d call it a painful read. Please don’t misunderstand describing my reading experience as painful is not a negative reflection on Jennifer Estep’s writing on the contrary. I experienced a wide range of emotions while reading this book, including but not limited to feelings of surprise, anger, betrayal & annoyance. At times the heartbreak was overwhelming. I forced myself to space my reading out in an effort to catch my emotional breath. lol
That said allow me to share a short general & high-level (to prevent spoilers) list of annoyances I had while reading Bitter Bite.
Finnegan Lane seemed to lack any self preservation. As a conman disbelief should be ingrained into his psyche. It seemed Finn enthusiastically allowed himself to be maneuvered.
Gin Blanco’s procrastination leads to unnecessary altercations.
Now the good
Jennifer Estep’s ability to surprise us 14 books into the series.
I rate this story 3.5/4 stars
FYI The audible version of this book was amazing! I rate that 4 solid stars. Narrated by: Lauren Fortgang Length: 10 hrs and 19 mins
The eARC was kindly provided to me by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
=========================================================
This book counts towards my Cliterary Genius A to Z book challenge. Letter b.
February 24, 2016
This book was one of the best. In fact, it is second only to Spider's Revenge where Gin and Mab Monroe finally had their showdown. This book had all the things that I enjoy in this series: good fighting scenes, interesting villains, a good crime mystery, good teammate work and a final twist setting up the next book.
In this book, Finn had an opportunity to reconnect with his mother who had not been a part of his life since he was a little boy. Gin and the gang weren't so trusting of the sudden appearance of Mama D. Gin had to walk a very fine line with being honest with Finn and also having Finn's back in case Gin's suspicions on Mama D proved to be true.
I saw growth in Gin Blano. In prior books, Gin would have been stubborn in her opinion. In this book, Gin made her point and backed off in respect of her adopted brother's feelings. I love how Gin handled Mama D. I love how she finally confided in her loved ones. Gin trusted Bria early, trusted her team early and that is what helped her in the end.
Finn deserves a special shout out for not wearing blinders as long as Owen did. Finn did what needed to be done and I was so impressed with him.
I am very curious about Ora Snow, Gin and Bria's mother. I can't wait to find out more.
In this book, Finn had an opportunity to reconnect with his mother who had not been a part of his life since he was a little boy. Gin and the gang weren't so trusting of the sudden appearance of Mama D. Gin had to walk a very fine line with being honest with Finn and also having Finn's back in case Gin's suspicions on Mama D proved to be true.
I saw growth in Gin Blano. In prior books, Gin would have been stubborn in her opinion. In this book, Gin made her point and backed off in respect of her adopted brother's feelings. I love how Gin handled Mama D. I love how she finally confided in her loved ones. Gin trusted Bria early, trusted her team early and that is what helped her in the end.
Finn deserves a special shout out for not wearing blinders as long as Owen did. Finn did what needed to be done and I was so impressed with him.
I am very curious about Ora Snow, Gin and Bria's mother. I can't wait to find out more.
February 9, 2016
Bitter Bite picked up right pretty much where the last installment left off. It starts with a brief introduction and then you are off to the races. The story never lets up even to the very ending which was awesome but leaves you begging for more!
I don’t know how the author does it but this book got me engaged late into the night to get this finished because I just couldn’t put it down. This story has everything going for it. It was an amazing ride from beginning to end. Loaded with interesting twists and turns. Plenty of action, drama, heart-pounding scenes, and mind bending discoveries that keeps the story alive, even in the 14th book of the series. Any other author would have run out of ideas or lost the flow of the story by now. This series keeps getting better!
Jennifer Estep is an amazing force in her own right. Her ability to write scenes such as she does and create bad-ass characters and stories you become addicted to is second to none. I think this was one of the best books in the series. Bitter Bite is a five star read!
full review on A Midlife Wife
I don’t know how the author does it but this book got me engaged late into the night to get this finished because I just couldn’t put it down. This story has everything going for it. It was an amazing ride from beginning to end. Loaded with interesting twists and turns. Plenty of action, drama, heart-pounding scenes, and mind bending discoveries that keeps the story alive, even in the 14th book of the series. Any other author would have run out of ideas or lost the flow of the story by now. This series keeps getting better!
Jennifer Estep is an amazing force in her own right. Her ability to write scenes such as she does and create bad-ass characters and stories you become addicted to is second to none. I think this was one of the best books in the series. Bitter Bite is a five star read!
full review on A Midlife Wife
February 8, 2016
*Source* Publisher/Blog Tour
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4-4.5
*My Thoughts*
Bitter Bite is the Fourteenth installment in Jennifer Estep's best selling Elemental Assassin Series. The series features Gin Blanco as an elemental assassin known as the Spider who has two powerful abilities; the use of Stone and Ice elemental magic. When she's not avoiding assassination attempts that seem to spring up like jack-rabbits on a hot summer night, Gin runs a barbecue restaurant called the Pork Pit. Currently, Gin is the current head of the Ashland's Underworld, a title that came from the killing of Mab Monroe, and more challenges than you can shake a stick at.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 02/08/2016
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Expected publication: February 23rd 2016 by Pocket Books
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4-4.5
*My Thoughts*
Bitter Bite is the Fourteenth installment in Jennifer Estep's best selling Elemental Assassin Series. The series features Gin Blanco as an elemental assassin known as the Spider who has two powerful abilities; the use of Stone and Ice elemental magic. When she's not avoiding assassination attempts that seem to spring up like jack-rabbits on a hot summer night, Gin runs a barbecue restaurant called the Pork Pit. Currently, Gin is the current head of the Ashland's Underworld, a title that came from the killing of Mab Monroe, and more challenges than you can shake a stick at.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 02/08/2016
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Expected publication: February 23rd 2016 by Pocket Books
February 29, 2016
Just when you think you that Jennifer Estep cannot find another villain that can live up to the others, she introduces Ms. Shaw. Deidre Shaw was once married to Fletcher years ago before she left, leaving her son Finnegan to believe she had died in an accident instead. But when Gin gets word that Shaw is going to be returning, she digs up her old grave, finding a box that includes a letter from Fletcher, warning her of his wife and her malicious intents. He wants her to protect, Finn, her now half brother but it seems that Shaw has gotten to him first.
From the very first page, the threat is clear and readers can immediately get behind this story because of its close connection to its beloved characters. Although Ms. Shaw is just as charming as her son is, I think that’s what makes her even more dangerous. Readers just don’t know what her motives her and as threats hit Gin left and right, it makes for a very action-packed and suspenseful read.
Although Gin has really stepped up since becoming a well-known figure now in Ashland, she hasn’t changed all that much. She is still willing to get dirty and dig up graves and fight her own battles. Despite all the help she gets from her assistant, Owen and her sister, Bria, Gin doesn’t come across as all-powerful and I hope she never does. It would take the thrill away from the story. In the very beginning of the series, I will admit that I wasn’t a huge fan of Gin. She was too cold, but as the series has progressed, so has her character and I think Estep has really allowed Gin to come into her own while still staying true to her character. She has people around her now that care deeply about her and now, with BITTER BITE, one of those people is being targeted. It definitely pisses Gin off and you can just tell from there it’s going to be one hell of a book.
I’m so impressed with that Jennifer Estep has done with BITTER BITE. She is constantly able to reinvent the series, giving readers what they want but in a unique and different way. I’m looking forward to seeing how Estep is going to top this one.
January 30, 2016
When Finn's mother Deirdre shows up out of the blue, Gin knows something is up. But there is a part of Finn deep down and well hidden that wants to be loved and he's determined to believe his mother despite Gin's misgivings.
With Finn spending more and more time with Deirdre, it's left to Gin and Bria to get to the bottom of what she's doing in Ashland and stop her.
First of all, Bitter Bite is entertaining urban fantasy in the way that most books in this series are entertaining urban fantasy. There is nothing boring about this book. But I have a problem and maybe (probably) it won't be a problem for anyone else.
With each book, the bad guys get tougher, the challenges get harder and Gin takes more punishment somehow managing to survive. I wonder how long it can go on before we have the shark jumping moment.
Far be it for me to tell the author what to write, but I'm wondering if perhaps instead of ever more villainous villains it's time to pare back the series and perhaps write a few smaller stories.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the book, I just don't know if the series can continue on down this path for much longer and a slightly different focus might breath new life into it.
Many thanks to Pocket Books and Edelweiss for providing me with this ARC
With Finn spending more and more time with Deirdre, it's left to Gin and Bria to get to the bottom of what she's doing in Ashland and stop her.
First of all, Bitter Bite is entertaining urban fantasy in the way that most books in this series are entertaining urban fantasy. There is nothing boring about this book. But I have a problem and maybe (probably) it won't be a problem for anyone else.
With each book, the bad guys get tougher, the challenges get harder and Gin takes more punishment somehow managing to survive. I wonder how long it can go on before we have the shark jumping moment.
Far be it for me to tell the author what to write, but I'm wondering if perhaps instead of ever more villainous villains it's time to pare back the series and perhaps write a few smaller stories.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the book, I just don't know if the series can continue on down this path for much longer and a slightly different focus might breath new life into it.
Many thanks to Pocket Books and Edelweiss for providing me with this ARC
March 4, 2016
Another absolutely amazing book to add to an already remarkable series! Mind, that ever loving, swanky Finn really deserved a slap this time, he annoyed me so dam much!!
Love Gin, love her world and as long as these books are released, I'll always be there in line to pick them up and read!
Looking forward to the next book already!
Love Gin, love her world and as long as these books are released, I'll always be there in line to pick them up and read!
Looking forward to the next book already!
February 6, 2017
Well, god damn. I need the next book like I need air. So, come to mama.
November 23, 2015
This bite is more bitter than expected. This is a 3.5 star book as I did feel a strong emotion in this book. Specifically, I felt anger. Finn is a superlative con man. When his "long dead" mother arrives on the scene, she does so in a sneaky way. She is a client first and after Finn is totally enamoured by her charm, it is too late for Gin to warn him. After years of being Finn's family, it is all thrown away because she isn't family by blood. This book hurts. There is no other way to say it. It seems that the people closest to Gin hurt her the most. They cut her with such deep slices and she takes it silently and stoically. She may not rail, but I do.
I am pissed at Finn. I get it. He has mommy issues. He should know Gin better and he does, but his emotions lead him in a different direction. It is as if his mother is always just one step ahead of Gin. This is beyond frustrating. The problem I have with this series is that Gin is always having to prove herself. After all this time, after all she does for everyone, why do they not give her the benefit of the doubt? Also, why does she seem to do things the hard way? She is hard headed, stubborn and for an assassin, surprisingly non-confrontational. Seriously, half the issues in this series are due to lack of communication. I just want to beat on all of them and force them to have adult discussions.
What I like most about this series, is how Ms. Estep takes us back in time and stroll through Gin's memories. Her memories suck. Her life sucked. Even after she's been saved by the "Tinman", she still experiences bad times. If anyone would be dysfunctional as an adult, it would be Gin. She is surprisingly adjusted for a someone who seems to be kicked around all her life. Can she not have at least one happy memory? Is there not at least some memory which brings her happiness and peace? To have some cherished memory which doesn't contain a brutal lesson or painful beginning isn't too much to ask for, is it? Integrating Gin's experience and memories make for a better story because they all tie together. I like this because this is how I process and handle issues I run into now. Showing how Gin becomes who she is through her experiences works well for me. I like it. This story is still a page turner even if it hurts a heart to see Gin once again being treated abysmally.
Just as I think this series will end, Ms. Estep introduces another game changer. This new piece of information into Gin's past shakes her world. It also promises to provide answers to the many questions piling up in the background like the corpses Gin needs to dispose. The question is, will Gin like the answers she finds out about her mother or not? I'm intrigued and eagerly awaiting the next book in this fabulous serious. Recommended for urban fantasy lovers who enjoy angst.
*provided by Edelweiss
I am pissed at Finn. I get it. He has mommy issues. He should know Gin better and he does, but his emotions lead him in a different direction. It is as if his mother is always just one step ahead of Gin. This is beyond frustrating. The problem I have with this series is that Gin is always having to prove herself. After all this time, after all she does for everyone, why do they not give her the benefit of the doubt? Also, why does she seem to do things the hard way? She is hard headed, stubborn and for an assassin, surprisingly non-confrontational. Seriously, half the issues in this series are due to lack of communication. I just want to beat on all of them and force them to have adult discussions.
What I like most about this series, is how Ms. Estep takes us back in time and stroll through Gin's memories. Her memories suck. Her life sucked. Even after she's been saved by the "Tinman", she still experiences bad times. If anyone would be dysfunctional as an adult, it would be Gin. She is surprisingly adjusted for a someone who seems to be kicked around all her life. Can she not have at least one happy memory? Is there not at least some memory which brings her happiness and peace? To have some cherished memory which doesn't contain a brutal lesson or painful beginning isn't too much to ask for, is it? Integrating Gin's experience and memories make for a better story because they all tie together. I like this because this is how I process and handle issues I run into now. Showing how Gin becomes who she is through her experiences works well for me. I like it. This story is still a page turner even if it hurts a heart to see Gin once again being treated abysmally.
Just as I think this series will end, Ms. Estep introduces another game changer. This new piece of information into Gin's past shakes her world. It also promises to provide answers to the many questions piling up in the background like the corpses Gin needs to dispose. The question is, will Gin like the answers she finds out about her mother or not? I'm intrigued and eagerly awaiting the next book in this fabulous serious. Recommended for urban fantasy lovers who enjoy angst.
*provided by Edelweiss
August 10, 2016
Book #14. And this is the first one of the series I read on my own. After always having someone to discuss with, reading without my fellow buddy readers was strange and quite honestly lonely. Stupid hotel with no wi-fi :/
Still the book was great. Maybe I'm biased or just too emotionally attached to the characters because despite the formulaic plot I still loved it. This time the enemy doesn't target Gin directly. She takes a much sinister way around - through her foster brother Finn. Finn has been a part of this series from the very beginning. He's been the anchor for Gin through all that has happened in the last few months. And now he is the one who is neck deep into someone else's evil plans. An he can't even see it. Because the big bad of this book is no other but his mother who everyone believed long dead. The fact that Gin had known she's alive for a week almost drives a wedge between the two foster siblings. But Gin is paranoid as hell and thanks to a letter from beyond the grave from Fletcher she's even more suspicious. So when the inevitable happens and dear Mama Dee shows her true colours she's somewhat ready for her. Unfortunately Deidre knew Fletcher pretty damn well and thus knows how Gin operates. As is the usual way of these books Gin eventually wins. But Finn's heart will never be the same.
A new major enemy emerged in this book and I hope it will provide more of an opposition than the last few villains. And it seems that the Snow's family past will finally catch up with both Gin and Bria. So bring it on!
Still the book was great. Maybe I'm biased or just too emotionally attached to the characters because despite the formulaic plot I still loved it. This time the enemy doesn't target Gin directly. She takes a much sinister way around - through her foster brother Finn. Finn has been a part of this series from the very beginning. He's been the anchor for Gin through all that has happened in the last few months. And now he is the one who is neck deep into someone else's evil plans. An he can't even see it. Because the big bad of this book is no other but his mother who everyone believed long dead. The fact that Gin had known she's alive for a week almost drives a wedge between the two foster siblings. But Gin is paranoid as hell and thanks to a letter from beyond the grave from Fletcher she's even more suspicious. So when the inevitable happens and dear Mama Dee shows her true colours she's somewhat ready for her. Unfortunately Deidre knew Fletcher pretty damn well and thus knows how Gin operates. As is the usual way of these books Gin eventually wins. But Finn's heart will never be the same.
A new major enemy emerged in this book and I hope it will provide more of an opposition than the last few villains. And it seems that the Snow's family past will finally catch up with both Gin and Bria. So bring it on!
January 30, 2016
Another fantastic installment in Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassins series.
This is book number 14 and if you've managed to stay up to date in this series, you are in for a treat.
Rather than give a review of this book (and give away possible spoilers to previous books), I'd like to tell you why I enjoy this series:
1) The world building The series is set in the fictional town of Ashland. The town is corrupt and everyone is on the take. The town is populated by giants, dwarfs, vampires, elementals, and humans. The elementals are your wild card - they have all sorts of powers based on the elements.
2)The cast of characters Our heroine Gin Blanco owns the local barbecue restaurant. Not only does she cook, she is also a very lethal assassin. Gin surrounds herself with her "family," a group of people who support her. The villains in this series are almost comic book like and it is really fun watching Gin battle it out with them.
3)The storytelling While earlier books suffered from repetition, the later books keep you reading. There's lots of action, fight sequences, and mystery to keep you reading. The narrative is detailed and that's the charm of this series.
4)14 books and at least one more to come! I'm so glad that there are more books planned for this series. I can't wait to read more.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pocket Books for a review copy of this book.
This is book number 14 and if you've managed to stay up to date in this series, you are in for a treat.
Rather than give a review of this book (and give away possible spoilers to previous books), I'd like to tell you why I enjoy this series:
1) The world building The series is set in the fictional town of Ashland. The town is corrupt and everyone is on the take. The town is populated by giants, dwarfs, vampires, elementals, and humans. The elementals are your wild card - they have all sorts of powers based on the elements.
2)The cast of characters Our heroine Gin Blanco owns the local barbecue restaurant. Not only does she cook, she is also a very lethal assassin. Gin surrounds herself with her "family," a group of people who support her. The villains in this series are almost comic book like and it is really fun watching Gin battle it out with them.
3)The storytelling While earlier books suffered from repetition, the later books keep you reading. There's lots of action, fight sequences, and mystery to keep you reading. The narrative is detailed and that's the charm of this series.
4)14 books and at least one more to come! I'm so glad that there are more books planned for this series. I can't wait to read more.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pocket Books for a review copy of this book.
February 26, 2016
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/review-bitter...
Throughout the previous thirteen installments in the Elemental Assassins series I’ve praised Finnegan Lane and his constant level of dependability in Gin Blanco’s life. Through thick and thin, no matter what the situation, it’s always been the unflappable, charming Finn who has stood behind Gin and offered support and a helping hand. Sure Owen and Bria are unquestionably on her side now, but there have been times over the course of this series where I’ve been disappointed in each of them and upset over how they let my favorite assassin down. But not Finn, never Finn. To say I went into Bitter Bite with a bit of apprehension would be an understatement.
After discovering that Finn’s mother might still be alive, Gin is determined to get as much information as possible. Which leads her to Fletcher’s office and a file on the mysterious Deirdre. Digging up her grave only leads to more questions when Gin finds it empty save for a Silverstone box full of pictures, mementos, and letters left for her and Finn by Fletcher. But what does it all mean? And how does she tell her brother that his long dead mother might possibly be alive and well somewhere in the world?
Unfortunately, Dierdre has already infiltrated Finn’s life and is more than ready to catch up for lost time. To say Finn is bewitched by his long-lost mother is an understatement. But Gin has a feeling Mama Dee is up to no good and will eventually break her brother’s heart in the process. So she’ll sit and wait and watch, then do what the Spider does best, and that’s protecting the family and friends she holds dear by any means possible.
As with any book in this series the action picks up almost immediately and Gin finds herself caught in the web of yet another mystery. Only, this time, it’s much closer to home and could change certain relationship dynamics I’ve come to trust and rely on. Deirdre is flashy, charming, and does her best to endear herself to the son she left so many years ago. She spins wild tales about Fletcher’s involvement in her departure that go against everything Gin knows about her foster-father. Despite Finn ignoring his sister’s warnings and giving the cold shoulder to the rest of his friends and family, I could actually understand why he behaved the way he did. Oh, I knew it would all blow up into a big, huge mess by the end, but I was right there alongside Gin wishing I would end up being mistaken.
Sadly neither Gin nor I were wrong. While I had quite a bit of anxiety over what the consequences would be to Finn, Gin and their relationship, it seems like they managed to come out the other side stronger than ever.
While Bitter Bite features Finn’s mother, she isn’t really the main villain. She isn’t even the most powerful. That mysterious player stayed in the background throughout most of this book, yet I have a feeling his involvement will grow as the series goes forward. The fourteenth installment has opened new doors that promise to bring new life to this series. Ms. Estep has managed to surprise me yet again. I always thought that after the death of Mab Monroe and later of her daughter, readers saw the end of the original story arc. I’m kind of wondering if this wasn’t the plan all along… to circle back around to some of the original players after Gin had grown both mentally and physically as a character. Now I have no idea what is going to happen next or if everything that’s gone before has all been a smoke screen to something much bigger. This leads me to wondering how many more books are planned for this series and how deep this new mystery will get.
Bitter Bite hit all my Elemental Assassin buttons. I love this series, and even after fourteen books still can’t get enough of this world or these characters. Thankfully, I won’t have to wait long to see what new adventure the Spider and her crew get tangled up in next, Unraveled, book fifteen, has a release date of August 30, 2016. Final Grade- A-
Favorite Quote:
“Shh, shh, it’s okay,” I whispered, trying to soothe him. “Everything’s going to be okay.”
But things were anything but okay right now, and the tears kept streaming down and freezing on Finn’s face.
Throughout the previous thirteen installments in the Elemental Assassins series I’ve praised Finnegan Lane and his constant level of dependability in Gin Blanco’s life. Through thick and thin, no matter what the situation, it’s always been the unflappable, charming Finn who has stood behind Gin and offered support and a helping hand. Sure Owen and Bria are unquestionably on her side now, but there have been times over the course of this series where I’ve been disappointed in each of them and upset over how they let my favorite assassin down. But not Finn, never Finn. To say I went into Bitter Bite with a bit of apprehension would be an understatement.
After discovering that Finn’s mother might still be alive, Gin is determined to get as much information as possible. Which leads her to Fletcher’s office and a file on the mysterious Deirdre. Digging up her grave only leads to more questions when Gin finds it empty save for a Silverstone box full of pictures, mementos, and letters left for her and Finn by Fletcher. But what does it all mean? And how does she tell her brother that his long dead mother might possibly be alive and well somewhere in the world?
Unfortunately, Dierdre has already infiltrated Finn’s life and is more than ready to catch up for lost time. To say Finn is bewitched by his long-lost mother is an understatement. But Gin has a feeling Mama Dee is up to no good and will eventually break her brother’s heart in the process. So she’ll sit and wait and watch, then do what the Spider does best, and that’s protecting the family and friends she holds dear by any means possible.
As with any book in this series the action picks up almost immediately and Gin finds herself caught in the web of yet another mystery. Only, this time, it’s much closer to home and could change certain relationship dynamics I’ve come to trust and rely on. Deirdre is flashy, charming, and does her best to endear herself to the son she left so many years ago. She spins wild tales about Fletcher’s involvement in her departure that go against everything Gin knows about her foster-father. Despite Finn ignoring his sister’s warnings and giving the cold shoulder to the rest of his friends and family, I could actually understand why he behaved the way he did. Oh, I knew it would all blow up into a big, huge mess by the end, but I was right there alongside Gin wishing I would end up being mistaken.
Sadly neither Gin nor I were wrong. While I had quite a bit of anxiety over what the consequences would be to Finn, Gin and their relationship, it seems like they managed to come out the other side stronger than ever.
While Bitter Bite features Finn’s mother, she isn’t really the main villain. She isn’t even the most powerful. That mysterious player stayed in the background throughout most of this book, yet I have a feeling his involvement will grow as the series goes forward. The fourteenth installment has opened new doors that promise to bring new life to this series. Ms. Estep has managed to surprise me yet again. I always thought that after the death of Mab Monroe and later of her daughter, readers saw the end of the original story arc. I’m kind of wondering if this wasn’t the plan all along… to circle back around to some of the original players after Gin had grown both mentally and physically as a character. Now I have no idea what is going to happen next or if everything that’s gone before has all been a smoke screen to something much bigger. This leads me to wondering how many more books are planned for this series and how deep this new mystery will get.
Bitter Bite hit all my Elemental Assassin buttons. I love this series, and even after fourteen books still can’t get enough of this world or these characters. Thankfully, I won’t have to wait long to see what new adventure the Spider and her crew get tangled up in next, Unraveled, book fifteen, has a release date of August 30, 2016. Final Grade- A-
Favorite Quote:
“Shh, shh, it’s okay,” I whispered, trying to soothe him. “Everything’s going to be okay.”
But things were anything but okay right now, and the tears kept streaming down and freezing on Finn’s face.
February 6, 2016
Well let me start this one off with a basic observation, I loved the book. Stayed up late to finish it and loved the ending. OK, got that out of the way because many times when I list things about a book that I might not have liked it gives some folks the impression that I did not like the book, not true here in the least.
So, what did I not like? I always have problems with plots that seem to take familiar characters and turn them into somebody else which is what this did with Finn. This was not way out in the fringe since it was within the realm of reality for someone to act like this but I just did not feel it.
So, something I did like? Plot twists, I kept thinking, this is the end but something would happen and the story keeps moving. I have no problem with "predictable" many times since it kind of goes with my paragraph above but there were several times that things went off in an unseen direction, I loved it.
Something I did not like again? A situation that is so obvious but for reasons to move the plot along is ignored and when it happens it is like "SURPRISE" when it really wasn't ...... at all.
What I ALWAYS like? Gin, she is the heart of these books and she is the definition of "conflicted" since she manages to be a very believable assassin while having a heart of gold, Jennifer Estep has managed to create a unique character and make her someone that leaves bodies stacked in her wake and you still love her. Nice job since that requires some real creative writing skills. kudos.
Bottom Line: This is a Elemental Assassin book, the fact that I still love to read them after 14 books (yes I have read all but 1) says a lot. Most series become money grabs or worse by 8-9 books, this one looks to be creating a new storyline (a series ending storyline?) and I am intrigued. Her love life does not eat up a bunch of pages, her interpersonal relationships do and they make these books as much as the action scenes do (really starting to love the PA). So to end this, if you liked any of the others, you are going to love this one and the thing I really love with any author is being able to close a story, no cliffhangers and still feed you a thread of the future story to make you lust for the next book. 4 Stars (maybe more, your mileage may very) and a ton of fun for those with a violent streak like me.
So, what did I not like? I always have problems with plots that seem to take familiar characters and turn them into somebody else which is what this did with Finn. This was not way out in the fringe since it was within the realm of reality for someone to act like this but I just did not feel it.
So, something I did like? Plot twists, I kept thinking, this is the end but something would happen and the story keeps moving. I have no problem with "predictable" many times since it kind of goes with my paragraph above but there were several times that things went off in an unseen direction, I loved it.
Something I did not like again? A situation that is so obvious but for reasons to move the plot along is ignored and when it happens it is like "SURPRISE" when it really wasn't ...... at all.
What I ALWAYS like? Gin, she is the heart of these books and she is the definition of "conflicted" since she manages to be a very believable assassin while having a heart of gold, Jennifer Estep has managed to create a unique character and make her someone that leaves bodies stacked in her wake and you still love her. Nice job since that requires some real creative writing skills. kudos.
Bottom Line: This is a Elemental Assassin book, the fact that I still love to read them after 14 books (yes I have read all but 1) says a lot. Most series become money grabs or worse by 8-9 books, this one looks to be creating a new storyline (a series ending storyline?) and I am intrigued. Her love life does not eat up a bunch of pages, her interpersonal relationships do and they make these books as much as the action scenes do (really starting to love the PA). So to end this, if you liked any of the others, you are going to love this one and the thing I really love with any author is being able to close a story, no cliffhangers and still feed you a thread of the future story to make you lust for the next book. 4 Stars (maybe more, your mileage may very) and a ton of fun for those with a violent streak like me.
February 26, 2016
ARC review. 3.5 stars
One of the things I love most about this series and specifically, Gin Blanco, is her unwavering loyalty to her friends and family. It is her strongest characteristic and what brings me back every time. Which now explains why I had so much anxiety about reading this book. It pains me when someone close violates that trust.
Finn, for all intents and purposes, is Gin’s brother. All of his life he believed that his mother was dead and then one day he discovers that his new client is actually his mother. Despite his friends’ warnings to Finn to be careful about trusting her, he falls head over heals in love with her. Jennifer Estep does a good job conveying Finn’s child-like yearning for a mother. A yearning so fierce that he puts his relationship with Gin at risk to give his mother the benefit of the doubt. Gin, trusting her intuition, refuses to let down her guard with Deirdre. Gin knows the sting of betrayal. Her current boyfriend, Owen, dismisses Gin’s warning about his ex-girlfriend in a previous book. Yup, that book was devastating to me too. Maybe because this happened before, but I instead of being wrecked by Finn’s action, I am more disappointed in him. Didn’t he learn a thing from what happened to Owen?
At the end of the day, the real purpose of this book is to introduce the presence of a long-standing secret society called The Circle in Ashland. Ms. Estep throws out just enough line for me to bite. I cannot wait to see where she takes this next.
IN A NUTSHELL:
This is a strong addition to the series. Not as action packed as some in the past, but I think testing the relationship between Gin and her brother, Finn is a good turn in the series.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of the things I love most about this series and specifically, Gin Blanco, is her unwavering loyalty to her friends and family. It is her strongest characteristic and what brings me back every time. Which now explains why I had so much anxiety about reading this book. It pains me when someone close violates that trust.
Finn, for all intents and purposes, is Gin’s brother. All of his life he believed that his mother was dead and then one day he discovers that his new client is actually his mother. Despite his friends’ warnings to Finn to be careful about trusting her, he falls head over heals in love with her. Jennifer Estep does a good job conveying Finn’s child-like yearning for a mother. A yearning so fierce that he puts his relationship with Gin at risk to give his mother the benefit of the doubt. Gin, trusting her intuition, refuses to let down her guard with Deirdre. Gin knows the sting of betrayal. Her current boyfriend, Owen, dismisses Gin’s warning about his ex-girlfriend in a previous book. Yup, that book was devastating to me too. Maybe because this happened before, but I instead of being wrecked by Finn’s action, I am more disappointed in him. Didn’t he learn a thing from what happened to Owen?
At the end of the day, the real purpose of this book is to introduce the presence of a long-standing secret society called The Circle in Ashland. Ms. Estep throws out just enough line for me to bite. I cannot wait to see where she takes this next.
IN A NUTSHELL:
This is a strong addition to the series. Not as action packed as some in the past, but I think testing the relationship between Gin and her brother, Finn is a good turn in the series.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2018
Once again a book that is hard to put down! It has all the points that have made this series addicting, lots of action mixed in with strong emotional ties. The latter is especially present in this installment as Finn reunites with his long-lost mother and Gin has to deal with the fall-out. It is amazing how this author keeps succeeding in keeping storylines fresh while allowing the formula that works so well to continue.
I am getting a bit annoyed that our favorite group of characters keep allowing the bad guys to get away (Emery, Tuck, etc.) when they have ample opportunities to stop (well, kill) them, though. There isn’t a plausible reason given and as thorough as Gin and her gang usually are, it stands out as odd and frustrating.
BUT, that is the only complaint I have - and it is book 14 for heaven’s sake! That, alone, should tell everyone how much I love this series!
I am getting a bit annoyed that our favorite group of characters keep allowing the bad guys to get away (Emery, Tuck, etc.) when they have ample opportunities to stop (well, kill) them, though. There isn’t a plausible reason given and as thorough as Gin and her gang usually are, it stands out as odd and frustrating.
BUT, that is the only complaint I have - and it is book 14 for heaven’s sake! That, alone, should tell everyone how much I love this series!
December 31, 2015
As always when I start an Elemental assassin book, I can't stop till I finished it.
it is the same with this one! and although we don't see as much of Owen as in the last one (which I absolutely adored in the last book and what was a slight set-down in this one), I adored Gin in it.
this is one of my favorite series and with each book Jennifer Estep proves why. I love Gin and her family and can't wait to read the next book.
Whole review will come nearer to the publishing date.
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided via Netgally in exchange for an honest review
Disclaimer:
it is the same with this one! and although we don't see as much of Owen as in the last one (which I absolutely adored in the last book and what was a slight set-down in this one), I adored Gin in it.
this is one of my favorite series and with each book Jennifer Estep proves why. I love Gin and her family and can't wait to read the next book.
Whole review will come nearer to the publishing date.
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided via Netgally in exchange for an honest review
Disclaimer:
December 27, 2016
I was gifted this book via Netgalley.
It's hard to leave a review without spoiling some major plotlines of other books that have come previously, but I will say that I really enjoyed this one. I felt like the recaps weren't too prominent like in some past books - they were more useful than just fillers. The plotline had me slackjawed. It was SO good. Finn was quite frustrating, as was the new character. You just wanted to shake them both. The ending was great too. I love seeing where this is going! Thoroughly impressed with this one!
It's hard to leave a review without spoiling some major plotlines of other books that have come previously, but I will say that I really enjoyed this one. I felt like the recaps weren't too prominent like in some past books - they were more useful than just fillers. The plotline had me slackjawed. It was SO good. Finn was quite frustrating, as was the new character. You just wanted to shake them both. The ending was great too. I love seeing where this is going! Thoroughly impressed with this one!
July 12, 2020
Auch der neueste Band von dieser Serie hat mir wieder total gut gefallen. Ich kann nicht genug davon bekommen.
5 Sterne
5 Sterne
February 23, 2016
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Gin and the gang are back, and this time, the Spider’s target is Finn’s mother – a woman long thought dead. The problem? Finn doesn’t see her as a threat. Gin certainly has her work cut out for her this time…
Opening Sentence: Digging up a grave was hard, dirty work.
The Review:
Gin Blanco has never met a challenge she couldn’t beat, but when she receives proof that Finn’s mother – long thought to be dead – is actually still alive and in Ashland, it causes her to stumble. A letter Fletcher left for Gin to find leads her to believe that Finn’s mother’s intentions are anything but good, but Gin cannot figure out how to tell Finn this, especially once Deirdre reveals her identity to him. All of a sudden, Finn’s every waking moment is consumed by “Mama Dee,” and he has little time for his foster sister or the rest of his friends. Gin’s gut is telling her something bad is going to happen, but how will she get Finn to listen? Will this be the challenge that ultimately spells the end for the Spider?
Since having my second child in December, I’ve had a hard time getting back into the swing of reading. So the fact that I read this book in a matter of days should tell you something about how much I enjoyed it. In my previous reviews of this series, I’ve made it clear just how much I love it, and this book is yet another strong entry. I will admit though that something felt like it was missing, so as much as I enjoyed it, I have to go with 4 stars rather than my usual (for this series anyway) 5.
I think a large part of what was missing revolves around Finn. While he’s in the book often due to his mother showing back up, he’s not the same Finn that I’ve come to know and love over the course of the series. I spent a lot of time wanting to smack him for how he treats Gin, Bria, and in one scene, Jo-Jo. On the other hand, the fact that I had such a visceral reaction to his actions speaks to how connected to the characters I am, which is a hallmark of a good book in my opinion.
It also feels as if not much happens for the first half of the book. The first half is still entertaining, but it feels very stagnant. I’m used to this series delivering a lot of action, and the action doesn’t really pick up until the second half of the novel. Once the action does pick up, the book is very hard to put down.
All in all, while this is still a very entertaining addition to the Elemental Assassin series, I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as I’ve enjoyed more recent entries in the series. Fans of Gin and the gang are still in for a treat though and should definitely check this book out as soon as they can!
Notable Scene:
One night, after Deirdre had finally dismissed Tucker and gone to bed around midnight, I was heading back to my car with my black duffel bag hanging over my shoulder when a guy stepped out of the alley and onto the street in front of me. He was big, more than six feet tall, with buzz-cut black hair and a fake diamond stud glinting in one ear.
“Give me the bag, toots,” he snarled, baring his stained yellow fangs at me.
“A mugger?” I said, my mood brightening. “Excellent!”
The vampire frowned at my happy tone. Apparently, he decided that I wasn’t nearly scared enough, because he reached into his pocket and came out with a pitiful little switchblade.
“A mugger with a knife.” I grinned. “This just keeps getting better and better.”
His dark eyes narrowed in suspicion, and he glanced around, peering into the shadows that surrounded us. “Are you a cop? Is this some kind of undercover sting?”
“Me? A cop? Oh, that’s funny, sugar.” I chuckled. “Believe me, I am the very furthest thing from a cop.”
This wasn’t going at all the way he’d expected, but the vamp still thought I was an easy, if crazy, target, so he stepped forward and sliced his switchblade through the air, trying to intimidate me with the weapon.
Please. I had bread knives that were sharper than that thing.
“Give me the bag. Right fucking now. Or I’ll gut you where you stand.”
“Sure. This sucker’s heavy anyway.”
I slid my duffel bag off my shoulder and placed it on the sidewalk. Then I stepped over the bag and grinned at the bag again.
“You want the bag?” I drawled, crooking my finger at him. “Come and take it from me, sugar.”
“Crazy bitch,” he muttered.
“You have no idea.”
FTC Advisory: Pocket Books/Simon & Schuster provided me with a copy of Bitter Bite. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Gin and the gang are back, and this time, the Spider’s target is Finn’s mother – a woman long thought dead. The problem? Finn doesn’t see her as a threat. Gin certainly has her work cut out for her this time…
Opening Sentence: Digging up a grave was hard, dirty work.
The Review:
Gin Blanco has never met a challenge she couldn’t beat, but when she receives proof that Finn’s mother – long thought to be dead – is actually still alive and in Ashland, it causes her to stumble. A letter Fletcher left for Gin to find leads her to believe that Finn’s mother’s intentions are anything but good, but Gin cannot figure out how to tell Finn this, especially once Deirdre reveals her identity to him. All of a sudden, Finn’s every waking moment is consumed by “Mama Dee,” and he has little time for his foster sister or the rest of his friends. Gin’s gut is telling her something bad is going to happen, but how will she get Finn to listen? Will this be the challenge that ultimately spells the end for the Spider?
Since having my second child in December, I’ve had a hard time getting back into the swing of reading. So the fact that I read this book in a matter of days should tell you something about how much I enjoyed it. In my previous reviews of this series, I’ve made it clear just how much I love it, and this book is yet another strong entry. I will admit though that something felt like it was missing, so as much as I enjoyed it, I have to go with 4 stars rather than my usual (for this series anyway) 5.
I think a large part of what was missing revolves around Finn. While he’s in the book often due to his mother showing back up, he’s not the same Finn that I’ve come to know and love over the course of the series. I spent a lot of time wanting to smack him for how he treats Gin, Bria, and in one scene, Jo-Jo. On the other hand, the fact that I had such a visceral reaction to his actions speaks to how connected to the characters I am, which is a hallmark of a good book in my opinion.
It also feels as if not much happens for the first half of the book. The first half is still entertaining, but it feels very stagnant. I’m used to this series delivering a lot of action, and the action doesn’t really pick up until the second half of the novel. Once the action does pick up, the book is very hard to put down.
All in all, while this is still a very entertaining addition to the Elemental Assassin series, I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as I’ve enjoyed more recent entries in the series. Fans of Gin and the gang are still in for a treat though and should definitely check this book out as soon as they can!
Notable Scene:
One night, after Deirdre had finally dismissed Tucker and gone to bed around midnight, I was heading back to my car with my black duffel bag hanging over my shoulder when a guy stepped out of the alley and onto the street in front of me. He was big, more than six feet tall, with buzz-cut black hair and a fake diamond stud glinting in one ear.
“Give me the bag, toots,” he snarled, baring his stained yellow fangs at me.
“A mugger?” I said, my mood brightening. “Excellent!”
The vampire frowned at my happy tone. Apparently, he decided that I wasn’t nearly scared enough, because he reached into his pocket and came out with a pitiful little switchblade.
“A mugger with a knife.” I grinned. “This just keeps getting better and better.”
His dark eyes narrowed in suspicion, and he glanced around, peering into the shadows that surrounded us. “Are you a cop? Is this some kind of undercover sting?”
“Me? A cop? Oh, that’s funny, sugar.” I chuckled. “Believe me, I am the very furthest thing from a cop.”
This wasn’t going at all the way he’d expected, but the vamp still thought I was an easy, if crazy, target, so he stepped forward and sliced his switchblade through the air, trying to intimidate me with the weapon.
Please. I had bread knives that were sharper than that thing.
“Give me the bag. Right fucking now. Or I’ll gut you where you stand.”
“Sure. This sucker’s heavy anyway.”
I slid my duffel bag off my shoulder and placed it on the sidewalk. Then I stepped over the bag and grinned at the bag again.
“You want the bag?” I drawled, crooking my finger at him. “Come and take it from me, sugar.”
“Crazy bitch,” he muttered.
“You have no idea.”
FTC Advisory: Pocket Books/Simon & Schuster provided me with a copy of Bitter Bite. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
July 27, 2020
Mit Finn mehr im Vordergrund der Geschichte war es ein sehr guter Band. Auch wenn es einige bekannte Muster beinhaltet hat.
Das Ende hat mir sehr gut gefallen und bringt auch wieder mehr Spannung für den nächsten Band mit.
Das Ende hat mir sehr gut gefallen und bringt auch wieder mehr Spannung für den nächsten Band mit.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews