Jane Yellowrock really is a well done urban fantasy series, and this latest installment delivers in almost every way. It's well written, with a smart Jane Yellowrock really is a well done urban fantasy series, and this latest installment delivers in almost every way. It's well written, with a smart plot and intricate story telling. The world-building is good; the continuity is great; and the characters are fleshed out and sympathetic.
As the story begins, Jane's beast is still bound to master vamp Leo, and it's just one of many reasons she is depressed. She's still sad about her break-up with Rick; she misses her lost friend Molly; and she is devastated by Bruiser's betrayal since he helped Leo forcibly bind her. Basically, the only good things in her life are Eli and the Kid. But things start to turn around when she decides to take an out-of-town job in Natchez with her new back-up crew.
There are still plague-infected vamps floating around Natchez as well as some Naturaleza vampires who like to suck their victims dry. And more than 100 humans have gone missing. Jane agrees to work for Hieronymus to root out the errant vampires. She quickly discovers it won't be a simple mission. Somehow, the vamps have mutated into monstrous hybrids that are very difficult to kill. Not only that, she has a personal connection to the problem.
Shortly after she arrives in Natchez, Jane is greeted by Misha and Bobby, who both attended the group home where she grew up. Bobby is mentally disabled and Jane always had a soft spot for him. Misha helps care for him as she raises a sick daughter and is trying to write a book on vampires. She asks for Jane's help, presumably to help care for her child's medical bills. But once she goes missing, Jane feels like she owes it to Bobby and the little girl to bring her back home.
The plot is complicated, but it's not murky. As Jane digs to uncover the mystery of the mutant vamps, we learn more about the vampire origin story; the witches get involved; and of course, Jane's skinwalker heritage plays a role. And in the middle of all of this, Bruiser and Rick end up front and center, representing their own interests in cleaning up the Natchez mess.
This is the only part of the story that didn't work for me. This is like the love triangle that never really gets off the ground. There's angst, angst, and more angst... with absolutely no payoff. Jane wants both men at the same time that a relationship with either guy is impossible. She's hurt; she's jealous; she's depressed, angry, and miserable. And... nothing. No movement. I feel like a hamster in a wheel with her love life.
Everything else rocked. The action is great. The dynamic with Eli and the Kid is great. I loved Bobby and the tender feelings he evoked in Jane. I loved the resolution with Evan. I loved the explanation on the mutant vampires. I loved the holy water cannon. I loved Beast. The book is really very good. But I am hitting critical mass on the romance angle. Fish. Or. Cut. Bait.
It's amazing how much heart Carolyn Crane can shove in to such a small number of pages. I didn't care much for Simon in the Disillusionist novels. He It's amazing how much heart Carolyn Crane can shove in to such a small number of pages. I didn't care much for Simon in the Disillusionist novels. He wasn't always very nice to Justine; and he had an enormous chip on his shoulder. But with this novella, we learn why he is the way he is. It makes him all the more compelling and it humanizes him in a way that was desperately needed.
Simon's unlikely love interest in the story is Fawna, a prognosticator who can't allow herself to live in the moment. She is a slave to her visions, allowing them to cage her as effectively as those who kept her prisoner most of her life. She's never liked Simon and the feeling has always been mutual, though it's really been more of a dislike for the other's gift: Simon's disdain for future-telling and Fawna's rejection of the way he lives with reckless abandon.
But all that changes with the events of one day. Fawna catches a glimpse of the freedom Simon gains with his rejection of fate. And she somehow becomes a partner in his lifestyle, someone who he could really share himself with. But the thing is, when all is said and done, Fawna still is who she is --and growing to care for Simon only makes it harder for her to let go of the future she has seen for him.
The characters were very engaging and the writing was so good, I just wanted there to be more. I loved seeing Packard again and the way Crane weaves in the backstory from the previous books. I loved Simon's secret and how much that reveals about him. I loved Fawna's coat and the fearlessness she found with Simon. The only thing I didn't love was the ending. We have to take the future on faith and knowing what we know, that's a scary thing. I understand why it fleshed out the way it did, but deep down, I wanted the author to promise me it was all gonna be alright.
Still, I really enjoyed the story. I hope Crane decides to revisit the Disillusionist world again. She's created something really good. 4 stars....more
This book is amazing. This series is phenomenal. The characters are so very deeply flawed: filled with insecurities, addiction, rage, lust and sorrow.This book is amazing. This series is phenomenal. The characters are so very deeply flawed: filled with insecurities, addiction, rage, lust and sorrow. But through that, they so are so very real. I read most of this book with a knot in my stomach. In turns, I felt hopeless and crushed, joyous and elated. Because that is what Chess felt. And Stacia Kane masterfully put me inside of her head.
The story picks up shortly after the ending of City of Ghosts. Chess and Terrible are in love, but there are no guarantees for their future. And no one knows that better than Chess. Kane never takes the easy way out. It would be so satisfying to see Chess just begin to rebuild herself with the love of this amazing man. But the truth is, she is still Chess. Even though she sees Terrible for the gift that he is, what is just as important is how she sees herself: as unworthy of him. And with dread and inevitability, we watch her obsessive fears become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Of course, there is much more happening in the book. Primarily, Chess is on a case from the Church which coincides with an investigation she has going on for Bump. Lex is back, bringing more complications. Chess faces danger from humans and ghosts alike. It's exciting and unpredictable. But the truth is, the internal conflict is far more interesting than the external one.
It's like watching a star explode: It's beautiful and destructive and you can't take your eyes off of it. And before I convince you that it's all heartwrenching sadness, remember that joy and elation I talked about earlier. It's not all one way or another. This book took my emotions on a roller coaster. When it was over, my heart was in my throat; I felt satisfied and exhausted; and I'm already dying to get back on the ride. If you have never read this series or if you gave up on it early, you are truly missing out. 5 stars.
Carolyn Crane really put me through the wringer with her Disillusionists trilogy... ripping the rug out of from under me over and over again4.5 Stars
Carolyn Crane really put me through the wringer with her Disillusionists trilogy... ripping the rug out of from under me over and over again. But here, in this conclusion, she gave me everything I wanted, leaving me warm & fuzzy, satisfied, and a little wistful now that it's all said and done.
As the story begins, Justine is going forward with her plans to marry Otto, convinced Packard killed Avery and went on the run. Of course, the readers know the truth. And it's great stuff as Justine comes to understand what really happened. Once everything is out in the open, she knows where her true future lies. But it's not like she can just leave Otto. He has become too powerful and he has quietly imprisoned too many of her friends. So the book is essentially about how she can get free of him and save the people she loves so she can find true happiness with Packard.
This book doesn't have the same kinds of twists and turns as the other two. It's pretty straightforward. Which does NOT mean it's slow or boring. There is plenty of action and some very gratifying interaction between Justine and Packard. Theirs is a love story that has been a long time coming. But perhaps, what is just as satisfying is seeing the evolution of Justine as an individual. Her neurosis made her very difficult to relate to in the beginning of the series, but she has come so far. I'm so proud of her.
And I would be remiss if I don't give a shoutout to Simon and Shelby, two great supporting characters. Honestly, Shelby has some of the very best lines in the book, as far as I'm concerned. --And Gumby. Let's not forget Gumby.
It didn't have the same shocking and dizzying qualities of the previous books, but it scored high points for hitting my emotional happy ending buttons. Very good.
I thought the ending for Mind Games was unexpected. But clearly Carolyn Crane was just giving me a sneak preview of how blown away I woWow. Just wow.
I thought the ending for Mind Games was unexpected. But clearly Carolyn Crane was just giving me a sneak preview of how blown away I would be by the end of Double Cross. Did I just say blown away? How about shocked? Flabbergasted? Amazed? All of the above!!
As this installment begins, Justine is with Otto, but their relationship is still on tender ground. She is working with Packard and her fellow disillusionists to reform all the people Otto has locked up with his force fields. One of the marks is Ez, a woman with the power over dreams... a woman who worms her way into Justine's mind while Justine does the same to her. But I'll come back to that in a minute.
As the disillusionists attend to their duties, there is a new threat to the city. A group of people are killing off highcaps. The killers not only have the ability to identify their targets, but they are also immune to their powers. Packard and Otto both fear the threat, and Justine finds herself working to identify the killers as well.
Amidst all of this, Justine continues to struggle with her conflicting feelings. She is torn about the morality involved with disillisioning. And even though she loves Otto, she is still drawn to Packard. Those feelings are intensified when Ez starts pulling Justine and Packard into each other's dreams.
There is so much going on, and much like Justine, I found my affections bouncing back and forth between Packard and Otto. Until the end. The Omigod I can't believe that just happened end. The end that I will not spoil for you. But I will tell you that it turns everything on its ear.
While Mind Games was good, this book truly bumped the series up a notch. Justine is growing so much. She has a moral center that so many people around her lack. I found myself loving Shelby, growing more interested in Simon --and sinking deep into the backstory between Packard and Otto. It was just fantastic. But don't read it without having Head Rush standing by. Otherwise, you might just pull your hair out. Almost 5 stars. ...more
Do you have any idea how hard it is to look at a book's big picture when all you want to talk about is the end? Indulge me for just a moment as I get Do you have any idea how hard it is to look at a book's big picture when all you want to talk about is the end? Indulge me for just a moment as I get this out of my system: Where the hell did that ending come from? This book took me on a ride to places I never thought I would go --and it was an unexpectedly entertaining journey.
I'll admit that, for me, it was a rocky start. Our heroine, Justine, is a neurotic hypochondriac, who is bordering on a mental breakdown. She is convinced she has a rare neurological disease and her fear is taking over her life. Until she meets a mysterious man in a restaurant. Packard tells her that he can take her fear away --and ultimately proves that he can-- at a cost.
Packard has a special ability that allows him to understand people on a very deep level. And he can help siphon off negative energy. But ultimately, Justine must go to work for him, among his team of Disillusionists. They go after evil people and hoist their various mental or emotional damage upon them... to break them down... in some cases for vengeance, in others rehabilitation. But either way, the results are twofold: 1) Justine purges herself of the fear for weeks at a time; and 2) she must put herself in the path of danger to complete her missions.
There is a great attraction between Justine and Packard, but their relationship is a rocky one. This is due in part to the fact that she already has a boyfriend, and in part because she is constantly learning about information he has kept from her. It's obvious he has a bigger plan for her, but it takes a long time before we see what it is.
I found Justine to be very off-putting at first. (And I also had trouble with the fact that the book is written in present tense.) But the more I read, the more I became complete wrapped up in the story. Not only did I have no idea what would happen with Justine's personal relationships, I was also kept on the edge of my seat by her psychotics marks and Packard's end game. I'm not generally a fan of love triangles, but there is a good one here --and in the interest of full disclosure, it wasn't even the triangle I expected.
There is moral debate, action, excitement, misdirection, betrayal, and some pretty good sex before all is said and done. I can't wait to see what happens next. 4 stars....more
**4.5 Stars** Before I get into the specifics, I have to say that books like these are the reason I keep my door open to indie authors. Fire Baptized f**4.5 Stars** Before I get into the specifics, I have to say that books like these are the reason I keep my door open to indie authors. Fire Baptized flies in the face of self-published stereotypes. It's fresh and unique. It has great character development, a fantastic plot, and steamy love interests. It's unpredictable; it has great pacing; and it clearly had a proficient editor.
Our heroine is Lanore, a mixed breed supernatural, who lives in the caged ghettos where humans relegate the preternatural community. Like other "mixies," she is looked down upon by the full-blood supes. But she is trying to make something of her life, going to college, while living with her ex-boyfriend and longtime friend MeShack. She is also trying to make things better for others of her kind, working with MFE, a mixie-rights organization. Things are going fairly well for her, until she witnesses a murder in a back alley.
Generally, Lanore's ability to wield fire can save her from most dangerous situations. But she is in real danger, once the killer recognizes her and seeks her out. It turns out that our bad guy is actually a serial killer. And since no one cares much about what happens to the mixies, Lanore takes it upon herself to solve the case. She has MeShack at her back --as well as Zulu, the head of MFE and a potential love-interest.
I'm not going to spoil the particulars of the murder-mystery. But I will say it's very well done. I didn't figure out the identity of the killer, but it made perfect sense once all was revealed. I'll also take a moment to talk about the love-triangle between Lanore, MeShack, and Zulu. Usually, I hate love triangles, but this one worked. Personally, I am in the Zulu camp, but I can see how some might root for MeShack. The action is definitely the forefront of the book, but the relationship issues are woven in seamlessly --and are an integral part of the story.
One other thing to mention is the diversity among the characters. Our heroine is African-American and the supporting cast features an array of ethnicities. It's just another way this story escapes the cookie-cutter feel of so many other books flooding the genre.
I thought it was fantastic and I can't wait to read the next installment.
I have to admit, I was worried. When Jennifer Estep wrapped up the Mab Monroe storyline in the last book, it felt like it could be the end of the ElemI have to admit, I was worried. When Jennifer Estep wrapped up the Mab Monroe storyline in the last book, it felt like it could be the end of the Elemental Assassin series. Then I head two words that made me shudder: road trip. Few authors can take their main character out of the familiar environment and make the story work. But let me tell you right now, not only did Jennifer Estep make it work, she's given us the very best installment in the series to date.
After Mab's death, Gin thought her life would get easier. But thanks to Jonah MacAllister, Gin's identity is no longer a secret. And every day, a new thug is showing up at the Pork Pit to challenge her. So Finn convinces her to take a vacation. Gin jumps in the car with Bria, back to her sister's home town, hoping to leave the violence behind. She also hopes she can bridge the growing gap between her and her sister.
I must say, Bria really ticked me off here. She is so judgmental of Gin; she blames her for things that are not her fault; she basically acts like Gin is beneath her. Very reminiscent of Donovan Caine in the earlier books. --And speaking of Donovan-- He is suddenly back in the picture as Gin finds herself in the middle of a conflict involving one of Bria's old friends. The woman is getting pressure from a vampire crime boss to sell her restaurant and Gin can't help but to try and help the woman who was like a sister to Bria for years. The woman who also happens to be involved with Donovan... who is still a complete toad.
This book is fast paced and full of action. But what makes it so good is that its also full of emotional turmoil in Gin's life. She has to learn hard lessons about the limits of her power. She must decide how much crap she is willing to take from her sister. And she needs to figure out where her heart lies. Is Owen the only man for her? Can she let go of her old feelings for Donovan? Do I ever stop wanting to punch him in the 'nads?
The absence of Mab and the change of venue gives the series an infusion of new life. It feels fresh without trying to reinvent the core of the series. It brings back all my favorite characters (and even some better left to rot beneath a bridge.) It is unpredictable. And it managed to make me worried, angry, sad, hot, happy, and triumphant, all in equal measure. I couldn't have been more satisfied and I wouldn't change a thing about how it all played out. I can wait to find out what's next for my favorite assassin. 5 stars.
Thank you, thank you Kelley Armstrong. This story is exactly what I wanted and needed to say goodbye to my beloved Clay and Elena. "Hidden" is a novelThank you, thank you Kelley Armstrong. This story is exactly what I wanted and needed to say goodbye to my beloved Clay and Elena. "Hidden" is a novella for the fans. It's not for people new to the Otherworld series. Yes, it would still make sense, but it wouldn't resonate. It wouldn't mean to you what it means to us.
The basic premise is that Clay and Elena have brought their four year old twins away to a cabin to celebrate Christmas as a family. But the appearance of a mutt threatens their holiday celebration. And the couple must figure out whether he is linked to a suspicious death in the area, while juggling their time with their kids.
It was so easy to slide back into this world, with these characters who have become so familiar. That's part of what makes it so satisfying. The other part, is knowing we have seen the complete evolution of Elena. She has come so far since Bitten. Now she has finally found peace as Clay's mate... as Alpha-elect of the Pack... and as a mom to Kate and Logan. Reading this story shows us the last few pieces falling into place. She finally has everything she always wanted --even though it's nothing like she would have pictured it.
The external conflict keeps the story moving forward --with an unexpected twist at the end. But it also shows that conflict and danger are simply another part of the life Clay and Elena lead. It's part of what it means for them to be Pack, and will always exist, just like their connection with one another, their packmates, and their kids. It's all here. And I couldn't be happier with how it was done. --I'll definitely miss these characters, but this is a great way to send them off. 5 stars. ...more
Ever since I finished the amazing and phenomenal Pale Demon, I have been counting the days until I could get my hands on this book. Pale Demon was epiEver since I finished the amazing and phenomenal Pale Demon, I have been counting the days until I could get my hands on this book. Pale Demon was epic: huge action, major personal developments, and a sweeping array of the major characters in the Hollows universe. A Perfect Blood went in a decidedly different direction.
The first half of the book was hard for me to connect with. Rachel is being very introspective about the events of the last book and attempting to live her life without the benefits of ley line magic. She has been staying away from Trent and trying to find her footing in society now that she is "out" as a demon.
As the story begins, she is called in by the IS to consult on a horrific serial killer case, with overtones of demonic magic. It turns out the bad guys are actually trying to turn witches into demons, hoping to use their blood to twist curses. Rachel jumps into the case with both feet. This is partly to avenge the victims, but also partly because she knows she could be an ultimate target. She already has the perfect blood they need.
In the meantime, Rachel is sporting a new were-bodyguard --and having angst over the fact that Ivy and Jenks seem to be moving on in their lives without her. And all I could think to myself is: this would be so much better if Trent or Al were around. Trent made an innocuous appearance or two early on, but I kept wanting to skip ahead to get to the part where the spark comes back. The book just wasn't doing it for me --until Rachel gets put in big danger around the half-way point. That's when the sun came out from behind the clouds.
And from then on out, the book rocked. I became more invested in the storyline involving the killers. Al finally made an appearance. And we see more of the "real Trent" beyond his businessman facade. Is there romance? Well, it's complicated. And sometimes ambiguous. And riveting and exciting and frustrating. Rachel is at her best when she embraces who she really is and what she really wants. That's true when she's kicking ass and when she's navigating through her personal relationships. It just took her awhile to get to that point in this book. 4 stars.
I know there is more to the Jane Yellowrock series than just her love life. I really do. But going into this book, all I could think about was whetherI know there is more to the Jane Yellowrock series than just her love life. I really do. But going into this book, all I could think about was whether Jane was going to end up with Rick now that he's "big-cat" or if she'll kick his big honking cheating ass to the curb. Will Bruiser be there to stake his claim? Will those two finally cross the finish line? So in deference to these burning questions, I'll say right off the bat that after reading this book, I am wholly dissatisfied with this entire element of the plot. Rick's actions in the last book are explained away far too easily. Even more frustrating, is the fact that Jane is unwilling or unable to assess her feelings for the two men in question. There. Is. No. Resolution. Not even a clear destination. But before I start gritting my teeth too loudly, let me talk about the rest of the book.
As the story begins, Jane is back in her hometown of Ashville, SC, where she is tasked to handle security for some important vampire-talks. But just as things get started, bodies start popping up. The culprits are the last two surviving werewolves from Mercy Blade. They've followed Jane, it seems, to get revenge for her killing the rest of their pack. Rick is in the area, learning how to be a big cat from Ken-whatshisname... the African panther, whose wife was responsible for infecting Rick in the first place.
The first third of the book just didn't jump out and grab me. Maybe because we were removed from the New Orleans gang and it took me a while to care about what was happening in South Carolina. Maybe it was because I was distracted, waiting for something to happen in Jane's love life. Regardless, things began to improve once we get into the meat of Evie's storyline. Yes, the wicked witch is back. We finally find out what her deal is --and it's a whopper. Evie also spices things up because she brings Molly and her family into the mix. And who doesn't love Angie Baby?
There is also some good stuff happening between Jane and her Beast. A lot less attention is paid to the mechanics of the shifts, which is cool. Jane and Beast come to really appreciate the strength they have as one unit... but without getting into details, I was a bit confused by a problem between them at the end of the book.
The plot and the action were really good in the second half... and it reminded my why I like this series. Jane is tough as nails; she's fierce and loyal; and it's so sad to see how truly fragile her connections are to others. I'm really curious to see what will happen for her next. (And hopefully, we'll gain a little ground in the relationship department. Please.) Almost 4 stars.
Well, we finally know for sure who the Black Sun's Daughter is --and Jayné has some really tough decisions to make. Now that she realizes she is carryWell, we finally know for sure who the Black Sun's Daughter is --and Jayné has some really tough decisions to make. Now that she realizes she is carrying a rider within her, her first impulse is to get it out. But things are much more complicated than a simple possession. This entity has saved her bacon over and over again. Jayné must struggle with the true nature of the spirit and she questions the right course to take.
Ex is a big force in this story. Aubrey and Kim have been phased out. Chogyi Jake is still recovering and is absent through the first half of the book. Only Ex has been at Jayné's side as she comes to terms with the source of her strength. And he is the one who introduces her to the priests who set out to perform an exorcism. The priests are a big part of Ex's history and in spending time with them, Jayné learns alot about what has shaped Ex into the man he is today.
I've been waiting and waiting for Jayné and Ex to make the connection I've always thought was simmering beneath the surface. The guy is clearly in love with her, but just because his heart is in the right place, that doesn't mean he has all the right answers. This book is markedly different from the last in that the lion's share of it is an internal struggle, as opposed to an external one. Jayné has to figure out her true nature; who she can trust; and what she wants for her future. Not every question gets an answer and that's frustrating. So many things happened in the last book. This one is more about her realizations. Ex and Chogyi Jake have important roles and even the old vampire Midian shows up, but mostly it's just about Jayné --and the Black Sun's Daughter.
It was slower, but good. It was important for the series. But I wish I had the next book in my hands to read. I want to see what Jayné will do with what she's learned. And I want her to get with Ex, dammit. (My patience is not without limits.) 4 stars.
Unclean Spirits puts a new twist on the standard urban fantasy fare. Yes, it's got vampires, lycans, and demons of a fashion, but the ideology is diffUnclean Spirits puts a new twist on the standard urban fantasy fare. Yes, it's got vampires, lycans, and demons of a fashion, but the ideology is different. Here, otherworldly spirits can transcend out of their own world into ours and latch on a human. They become "riders" --taking over their host's body and wreaking havoc.
Jayné knows nothing about riders or magic. But when her Uncle Eric dies, she inherits his home and his money; his secret life is an unexpected part of the deal. Eric fought the riders. When he died, he was trying to take down the leader of a powerful group of the creatures, Randolph Coin. Jayné gets a crash course in reality as she begins to meet Eric's associates. And it's only a matter of time before she takes up her uncle's mantle and seeks revenge on his killer.
Jayné may not know everything about her uncle's world, but she is not totally naive. She manages to take a lot of shocking information in stride. She has to let go of her old life and embrace her new one, which takes strength. And while the whole shtick about the pronunciation of her name (zha-NAY) got a little old, I found that I liked her. She grows a lot over the course of the book.
I also enjoyed the secondary cast of characters. While Jayné makes a little love-connection with one man, I get the feeling that her true intended is going to be someone else entirely (yes, Ex, I am talking about you.) There is a tiny bit of sex - enough that it wasn't left out entirely, but I probably would have enjoyed a bit more. And speaking of supporting characters... I really ended up kind of fascinated with the vampire Midian and I wonder what the future holds for him.
I liked this book. And I liked the ending. There is good resolution, but the door is opened wide for future installments. I still don't get the series title "Black Sun's Daughter," but maybe that will be explained in the coming books. A little more than 4 stars.
In this prequel to Ascension, we get a close-up look at what it was like when the walls fell between Hell and Earth. The story is told from the perspeIn this prequel to Ascension, we get a close-up look at what it was like when the walls fell between Hell and Earth. The story is told from the perspective of Zach, a retired soldier of the Order who is being called back into service to help deal with the slaughter to come. He's being summoned to meet with the rest of the army. But before he leaves, he knows he must find Shanna, the love of his life.
Zach tried to tell Shanna about his history months ago, but she thought he was crazy and ended their relationship. And convincing her to come with him takes some arm twisting. But it's only a matter of time before she is unable to deny what is right before her eyes. All the nightmare creatures Zach tried to tell her about are real, and they're hungry.
This is a fast paced short story with a lot of action. And it really does a good job filling in some of world-building in the Dark Breeds universe. We're treated to one good love scene and a pretty big cameo from Kyana, the main heroine of the series. Not bad for just 70 pages.
There was only one part that wasn't a win for me... the plot device that cements our couple together at the end. I would have believed in their future even without it and it felt a little trite. (**sigh**) I still liked the story though. It's worth picking up, even if you're not familiar with the series. 4 stars.
I feel like the Jane True series veered from it's path a bit in this latest installment. Don't get me wrong - I enjoyed it. But there are big changes I feel like the Jane True series veered from it's path a bit in this latest installment. Don't get me wrong - I enjoyed it. But there are big changes afoot, both for Jane and the landscape of her world.
I started this book with one thought: If Jane and Anyan don't kiss, I'm going to Nicole Peeler's house and accosting her with my nook. I mean, I have been waiting with drool in the corner of my mouth patiently for these two to realize their feelings and now that they have, there should be no more waiting, right? Well, there is some movement there. But, their relationship has felt like a carrot dangling on a string for a long time. I still want it, but I'm getting annoyed.
In this case, Anyan is benched for nearly the entire book, which negates the ability for the two of them to gain much forward momentum. It turns out, there is a big power hidden somewhere in Rockabill and it's drawing the villains from the last book to Jane's little town. Blondie is a big player in this one. And I missed our big supporting cast through most of the book. Ryu was just a voice on the phone --and even Anyan, Nell and Iris were a shadow of their normal presence in the books. A lot of the drama surrounds the history and origins of the supernaturals, which is interesting, but didn't quite pack the same punch as the action in Tempest's Legacy. A lot of this was a personal mission for Jane.
My favorite thing about these books --the humor and internal dialogue between Jane's virtue and her libido-- is definitely intact. (How can you not laugh when Jane ruminates that Anyan is lord of the vagina?) But part of Jane's charm is the fact that she is such a wonderful underdog. I fear her becoming too powerful; I don't want to lose who she is. I also thought that her reconciliation with Ryu was way too easy. But I've got faith. This series has been a real winner for me.
Let's just hope Jane's poor libido gets some relief soon. She's earned it. And, frankly, I'm tired of waiting. A little more than 4 stars.
Merged review:
I feel like the Jane True series veered from it's path a bit in this latest installment. Don't get me wrong - I enjoyed it. But there are big changes afoot, both for Jane and the landscape of her world.
I started this book with one thought: If Jane and Anyan don't kiss, I'm going to Nicole Peeler's house and accosting her with my nook. I mean, I have been waiting with drool in the corner of my mouth patiently for these two to realize their feelings and now that they have, there should be no more waiting, right? Well, there is some movement there. But, their relationship has felt like a carrot dangling on a string for a long time. I still want it, but I'm getting annoyed.
In this case, Anyan is benched for nearly the entire book, which negates the ability for the two of them to gain much forward momentum. It turns out, there is a big power hidden somewhere in Rockabill and it's drawing the villains from the last book to Jane's little town. Blondie is a big player in this one. And I missed our big supporting cast through most of the book. Ryu was just a voice on the phone --and even Anyan, Nell and Iris were a shadow of their normal presence in the books. A lot of the drama surrounds the history and origins of the supernaturals, which is interesting, but didn't quite pack the same punch as the action in Tempest's Legacy. A lot of this was a personal mission for Jane.
My favorite thing about these books --the humor and internal dialogue between Jane's virtue and her libido-- is definitely intact. (How can you not laugh when Jane ruminates that Anyan is lord of the vagina?) But part of Jane's charm is the fact that she is such a wonderful underdog. I fear her becoming too powerful; I don't want to lose who she is. I also thought that her reconciliation with Ryu was way too easy. But I've got faith. This series has been a real winner for me.
Let's just hope Jane's poor libido gets some relief soon. She's earned it. And, frankly, I'm tired of waiting. A little more than 4 stars.
Jane True has finally realized what I have known since book one: Anyan is the man. That's right. THEThis series just keeps getting better and better.
Jane True has finally realized what I have known since book one: Anyan is the man. That's right. THE MAN. Jane now accepts that she has a massive crush on him. And probably always has. The only problem is that he has been gone for two months. She hasn't seen him since the end of the last book. And when he does show up again, it's to break the news that her mother is dead... a victim of one of those terrible testing facilities we learned about in Tracking the Tempest. Jane joins with Anyan and Ryu as they investigate the murder and try to ferret out other similar compounds.
I loved this book. There was so much delicious angst. Ryu and Jane still have a lot to resolve. And it isn't all pretty. Also, we now have her feelings for Anyan in the mix. I've thought Anyan's feelings for Jane have been obvious since the beginning, but there are a lot of hurdles to overcome and it's all quite a ride.
The part of the story featuring the compounds is pretty disturbing. And it really hits home as a character we know and love gets caught up in it all. But this is such fantastic storytelling. I couldn't put it down. Even as dark as it gets at some point, there is still this fantastic humor infused throughout. Jane's internal ramblings and constant interjections from her libido make me laugh out loud. Plus, it's so satisfying to see how she has grown. Our little halfling has come a long way, both in power and personal growth.
But if I don't get some payoff on this sexual tension soon (you know the one I mean) -- I think I may just implode. Seriously. It's killing me. 5 stars.
I am officially in love with this series. And Jane True -- I am seriously, completely in love with her too. She is utterly believable as a woman who fI am officially in love with this series. And Jane True -- I am seriously, completely in love with her too. She is utterly believable as a woman who finds herself immersed in the new and strange world of the supernatural. Someone who has been isolated and alone... now finding herself in a relationship with a sexy and attentive new lover. She is funny and smart and really makes this series a captivating read.
This installment picks up a few months after the where the last one left off. Jane and Ryu are still seeing each other, but living apart. She goes to visit him in Boston for Valentine's Day and ends up in the center of his investigation of a halfling infirit who has gone on a killing spree. The halfling takes a shining to Jane, which is the first complication. The second, comes when some of Jarl's henchmen insinuate themselves onto the case. There is great action, murder and mayhem in the backdrop of fantastic character growth.
We're introduced to a wealth of great new secondary characters in Ryu's crew. But once again, Anyan totally steals the show. (Wake up, Jane!!! He is the man for you!!!) There is so much going on between him and Jane just under the radar... they had me on the edge of my seat. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite series. Almost 5 stars.
We first met William in On the Edge. He is a changeling, a shapeshifter, who has been rejected his entire life. He was given up at birth, raised in a We first met William in On the Edge. He is a changeling, a shapeshifter, who has been rejected his entire life. He was given up at birth, raised in a heartless facility, then forced into military service. He is estranged from his only friend, Declan, and he simply doesn't believe that he'll ever have love or a family of his own.
He's been living in the Edge for two years now, largely cut off from his old life. But he is pulled back in, when given the chance to finally track down and kill his old nemesis, the Spider. That mission takes him into the bayous of the Mire and it's there he meets Cerise.
Cerise has her own issues to deal with. Her parents have been kidnapped. The Spider is responsible, which gives her and William a common enemy. There's a lot more going on.... a family feud between Cerise's people and a neighboring clan, a mysterious monster, a secret journal. But the the single biggest draw in the book is William. He is such a heartbreaking tortured hero. Watching his tentative steps towards a relationship with Cerise is riveting. Seeing him find his first feelings of happiness is lovely. And getting the payoff on the phenomenal sexual tension was awesome. (A very, very satisfying love scene.)
But there were times I got lost. There were too many characters. I understand that it's sort of the point that Cerise's clan was really, really big. But it was really hard to keep track of everyone. And once we started learning the names and skill sets for the Spider's enhanced soldiers, my retention skills were kaput. I applaud the idea of big and sweeping world-building in theory, but I just couldn't keep up in some parts, which took me out of the moment more than once. It was also hard to keep track of the geography in my head.
It was still good. Especially the parts of the story that focused on Cerise and William. It was also a treat to revisit Declan, Rose and the boys to see how they are doing. 4 stars.
I read somewhere that Gordon Andrews once called this series "rustic fantasy." It kind of fits. It's decidedly not urban. The setting is kind of backwI read somewhere that Gordon Andrews once called this series "rustic fantasy." It kind of fits. It's decidedly not urban. The setting is kind of backwoods, really. But it's quirky; it's kind of charming; and while it took me a little while to connect with it, the book grew on me more and more as I continued to read.
This series is nothing like the Kate Daniels books, except for this: the world building takes some getting used to. It's not really hard to understand, but it's also not like anything else out there. In this case, there are essentially two parallel worlds. The Broken is the regular world we live in: a world of Wal-Mart and electricity. Magic is just a myth. Whereas, in the Weird, there is a world of nothing but magic. There is, however, an in-between place. The Edge is a little of both worlds, and somehow neither, at the same time. This is where Rose and her two brothers live.
Rose has more magic than most other people in the Edge, or perhaps it's more accurate to say, she is better at using it. So everyone wants to breed with her, or sell her, or profit from her in some other way. She is raising her little brothers, working a menial job, and has given up hope that her life could be more. When Declan appears, she assumes the noble from the Weird is there to force her into marriage. But at the same time, strange and dangerous creatures begin showing up. Rose has to work with Declan to fight the threat. And as they spend more time together... well, you know how these things go.
Like I said earlier, I didn't love it right away. Maybe it was the backwoods thing; maybe I just had to get used to the concepts. But either way, I ended up rather engrossed in it. Notably absent was the trademark Ilona Andrews snark, but there was a pretty hot sex scene which helped me get over that. There are some interesting secondary characters... especially William. I hope we see more of him in later books. I'm curious to see where the series goes next, since the ending felt pretty settled for Rose and Declan. There is only one way to find out.