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Showing posts with label urban fantasy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label urban fantasy. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Review: A Cursed Embrace by Cecy Robson
A Cursed Embrace
Author: Cecy Robson
Release Date: July 2, 2013
Publisher: Signet
The Weird Girls #2
ISBN: #978-0451416742
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (368 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Celia Wird and her three sisters are just like other twenty-something girls—with one tiny exception: They are the products of a curse that backfired and gave each of them unique powers that made them, well, a little weird…
After Celia Wird and her sisters help master vampire Misha save his family, their powers are exposed to the supernatural community of the Lake Tahoe region. But fame comes at a price, and being “weird” isn’t always welcome.
To make matters worse, Celia desires the love of Alpha werewolf Aric, but his pack is bent on destroying their relationship to preserve his pureblood status. And once weres start turning up dead—with evidence pointing to the vampires—she must face the prospect of losing Aric forever. But the chaos only masks a new threat. An evil known as the Tribe has risen—and their sights are set on Celia and her sisters.
What G & U are talking about:
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Gikany and Una continue to enjoy the Weird Girls series. With the latest installment, A Cursed Embrace, we were stunned by the ending and feeling a little lost.
This urban fantasy series is from Celia’s point of view. In the last two books (well, the first novel, Sealed with a Curse and a prequel novella, The Weird Girls) we had a lot of interaction between Celia and her sisters; Taran, Shayna and Emme. One aspect that we love about this series is the connection and bond between these four very different sisters. Each one is not only unique in appearance, but in her particular curse (power) and personality. The way the sisters are able to live with one another is powerful – they even take each other’s moods and abrasiveness in stride. A Cursed Embrace, felt as if it didn’t have that. In some ways it parallels the feelings of Celia as she feels not just divided from Aric, but since she is no longer with the powerful Alpha, that she is apart from her happy wolf-dating sisters. The aloneness that comes across the pages is almost overpowering. We understand it and it is a powerful tool that Ms. Robson wields – but we didn’t like it. But isn’t that is the point?
There are two distinct moments in A Cursed Embrace where we hope (beg, plead, whine…) that Ms. Robson will give us novellas. The first is the relationship between Gem and Taran. Most notably where they finally connect – Taran and Gem are conflicted yet drawn together. The tension and release they experience in this novel (which is behind the scenes) would be a fun novella. The other is of course the events at the end of the novel. To avoid spoiling anything, there is a significant occurrence at the end that Celia is not privy to. It is that and the subsequent time after we would like to experience.
The world of A Cursed Embrace continues to keep us glued. The politics between the different groups of supernaturals – not to mention the inner politics, is fascinating. We appreciated that part of the overall conflict in this storyline was self-made. Because of internal politics and prejudice within the supernatural communities, they created the perfect environment for this new evil to rise. Yet in some ways it felt like they didn’t learn their lesson. This aspect along with the heartache Celia suffered at the close (along with the nature of her departure) creates a burning need in our desire for the next novel.
A Cursed Embrace also encompasses the love triangle that Celia has found herself in. We love the connection she has with Aric and that her inner tigress can relax. As much we love the passion and chemistry between them, we do not feel that Aric sees her as an equal. This grates on the ingrained personality that is Celia as the oldest sibling and most importantly her inner golden tigress (who has an overriding need to protect). Yet, there is no question that Celia is in love with Aric. Then we have the relationship between Celia and Misha. We love Misha and how he seems to respect her independent spirit. He allows her freedom of expression and her tigress the freedom to protect and hunt. However, he, too, has a need to protect her and wants more than friendship. The dichotomy between Misha and Aric is not lost on us. We know Aric cares deeply for Celia and we believe Misha does as well. For the first time in her life, Celia has options and it is heartbreaking to watch her choose. We would like to think that as the novel came to a close, Celia’s choice may not be binding…that maybe the future holds a glimmer of hope.
We apologize for the vagueness, but we certainly do not want to spoil this novel. Although we have a few reservations about certain aspects of A Cursed Embrace, we still liked the story. We really enjoy this urban fantasy. It is a great balance between light-hearted romance and gritty urban fantasy adventure and action. If you haven’t tried The Weird Sisters yet, please pick it up. You might be just as caught up as we are.
Their Rating:
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Liked it - recommend (B+)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Review: Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet by Darynda Jones
Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet
Author: Darynda Jones
Release Date: Oct. 30, 2012
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Charley Davidson #4
ISBN: #978-1250014467
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Hardcover (320 pgs), Paperback, e-book
Book Source: Purchased with my own funds
About the book:
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In Darynda Jones's Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet, sometimes being the grim reaper really is that. Grim. And since Charley’s last case went so awry, she has taken a couple months off to wallow in the wonders of self-pity. But when a woman shows up on her doorstep convinced someone is trying to kill her, Charley has to force herself to rise above. Or at least get dressed. She quickly realizes something is amiss when everyone the woman knows swears she’s insane. The more they refute the woman’s story, the more Charley believes it.
In the meantime, the sexy, sultry son of Satan, Reyes Farrow, has been cleared of all charges. He is out of prison and out of Charley’s life, as per her wishes and several perfectly timed death threats. But his absence has put a serious crimp in her sex life. While there are other things to consider, like the fact that the city of Albuquerque has been taken hostage by an arsonist, Charley is having a difficult time staying away. Especially when it looks like Reyes may be involved. Just when life was returning to normal, Charley is thrust back into the world of crime, punishment, and the devil in blue jeans.
What I’m talking about:
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*Note: In this series, each book builds upon story lines revealed in the previous releases. Therefore, there will be spoilers from the prior three titles in this review. This series is best enjoyed when the books are read in order.
It's been over two months of pajama-wearing, home-shopping-network-watching, never-leaving-her-apartment for our heroine Charley Davison. After being horribly tortured by a crazed killer, then abandoned by her sort-of boyfriend, and finally, at the request of her father, arrested while in the hospital, Charley has spent some downtime avoiding her problems, and who would blame her?
Charley’s life starts to pick up again, in baby steps, after she decides to take a case from a women who thinks someone is trying to kill her. Working on the mystery gets Charley out of her apartment, and we witness her spark begin to return once she starts using her brain for something other than watching TV.
Of course with Charley, nothing is ever linear, and although her case is not tied to her personal life, the two begin to intermingle. She’s got a score to settle with Reyes, she is actively avoiding her father, and she knows something is up with a set of bank robbers she views on the news. Oh, and it seems that there are a bunch of demons taking possession of humans and then trying to kill her.
Fans of Ms. Jones’ Charley Davidson series will be delighted with Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet. We get a lot more of what we love! First, there is Charley’s insanely brilliant humor. Although there are some serious moments, and Charley has been beaten down, she still dishes out the barbs at herself and those around her. Her view and critiques of life are laugh-out-loud hilarious. The humor allows an intimate bond to develop between Charley and the reader, allowing one to empathize with her condition and cause one to root for Charley to succeed. I don’t think I’ve read a more humorous character than Charley Davidson. But beware - her snark isn’t for everyone.
We also get more of Cookie, Charley’s best friend and assistant. Their relationship is so special - the kind one hopes to form in real life. The pair fit together so well - able to lift one another up and laugh at the insanity of life. In addition, there is more of Charley’s once estranged sister, Gemma. Charley is at her best when interacting with those she cares about.
And for those who want it... yes, there is more of the sexy Son of Satan, Reyes. While the pair share some extremely sensual and erotic moments (and yes, they finally get to interact in person!), I have to admit, I'm still not a big Reyes fan. It's not that I want to see Charley with anyone else, although she does have some promising would-be suitors. It's just that Reyes knows Charley can't control herself and her hormones around him, and he uses that - uses her - to suit his own needs. And while he may care deeply about what happens to her - let’s face it: he's an a$$. He expects a certain type of behavior from her, but won't give her the same courtesy with his actions. They have heat, but I just don't feel the emotions, and that is what I want from the pair as a couple.
In addition, there are lots of fun nuggets for those who read the series - we see prophet Sister Mary Elizabeth again. Aunt Lil is over-the-top this time around. And there is some interaction with the sexy motorcycle gang lead by Donovan. But I am disappointed at the lack of face time for one of my favorite characters, Garrett Swopes. Although their scenes were powerful and well-written, I was let down that there wasn’t more resolution over what has happened (read to find out!). I hope his near-death experience from the third book, and any subsequent fallout, gets more play time in the next book.
As Charley goes through the motions of solving the case, she begins her healing, but she still has a ways to go. The case itself was extremely gripping and full of twists that frankly, I just did not see coming. Although the surprises don’t have any ramifications on the overall plot arc, they made for exciting reading!
Importantly, both Charley and Reyes develop and grow. New powers/talents emerge for both Charley and Reyes. We see Charley take charge of her shattered life once again. Because of of these things, Charley takes some questionable actions. In the end, I like Charley, a lot. She's snarky, smart and loving. Her crazy ADD brain and way of thinking are engrossing and entertaining.
Overall, I completely adore the writing style of Darynda Jones. I devoured Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet in a day. It is a funny and smart read, with interesting and well-woven plots. Sure, I guessed early on who was trying to kill Charley's newest client… but I didn't know why. And while I did figure out who Charley’s new neighbor was going to be, it sure was fun watching Charley figure it out. The entire story from beginning to end was a complete joy.
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Reviews in the Series:
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Review: Werewolves Be Damned by Stacey Kennedy
Werewolves Be Damned
Author: Stacey Kennedy
Release Date: April 15, 2013
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Magic & Mayhem #1
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Nexi Jones—part witch, part guardian, and wannabe kick-ass warrior—can’t throw a punch or conjure the simplest magic. But that doesn’t stop her from hunting the werewolves who slaughtered her human family. She’ll have her revenge, but only if Kyden, the elite guardian, would get the hell out of her way.
Kyden can’t decide if Nexi wants to get herself killed or if she just has no clue what she’s doing. But her father made it clear: keep Nexi safe…or else. Of course, the more Nexi runs toward revenge, the more she needs Kyden’s aid, and as she grows into her power and confidence, so does his desire to protect her. The only problem? She’d rather he dropped dead.
But when a vampire paints a bull’s-eye on Nexi’s back, she’s hard-pressed to deny Kyden and the help he’s offering. Even if it means getting her revenge will be a little bit harder. At least it will still be as sweet.
What I’m talking about:
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Nexi has lived her whole life unaware of the supernatural that surrounds her, that is until the day a rogue werewolf attacked and killed her adoptive parents in front of her. Nexi is rescued by half-naked warriors dressed in leather kilts (Guardians) who whisk her off to the Otherworld. It is there that she discovers her birth father is a Guardian and her birth mother was a witch. It was after her mother’s brutal death by a sadistic vampire that Nexi’s father placed her in hiding on Earth.
After a period of mourning, Nexi begins her journey of self-discovery. To help guide her are a handful of friends such as her “witch soul sister” BFF Haven, her birth father Drake, and a hunky Guardian, Kyden, who, we learn thanks to multiple POVs, has a major thing for Nexi. On a path to become a Guardian, Nexi’s sole motivation is revenge against the werewolf who killed her adoptive parents.
Werewolves Be Damned is an exciting new urban fantasy romance set in a unique world. Ms. Kennedy has created a distinctive new mythology, borrowing bits and pieces from traditional settings. There is a lot to digest (I had to take notes), but since Nexi is a new-comer to the Otherworld, we are given the chance to learn many of the details through her experiences. While most of the time the learning curve is smooth, at times I found myself a little confused and had to re-read small sections. In addition, the sheer volume of information eventually became overwhelming, and after a while I felt burned out.
Critical to the enjoyment of this novel is the understanding that supernaturals (witches, werewolves and vampires) all reside in a parallel realm known as the Otherworld. There is a primary ruling council, and in order to protect their secret way of life, there is a Guard. The Guard is comprised of a warrior paranormal race known as Guardians, who have increased strength and fighting abilities.
The story follows Nexi’s journey of self-discovery. She’s been thrust into a new life she didn’t even know existed, and she’s learning how to fit in. Her new role as a Guardian sends her off following clues of mysterious mortal deaths caused by rogue supernaturals which may be linked to her parents’ murders. The book reads like a mystery, with Nexi learning the rules on the job. The details spent into describing their investigation procedures is extremely interesting. There is quite an elaborate set up that begs you suspend reality for complete enjoyment.
Nexi starts out fairly immature, and I had to cringe a few times when she’d make silly mistakes or rookie errors. Her lust for Kyden also tends to preoccupy her brain during extremely inappropriate times. I also felt that she was a little too insecure, especially in her feelings/relationship with Kyden; however, that may be a reflection on the fact that with Kyden’s POV, I know she has nothing to worry about.
With that said, I enjoyed Nexi and Kyden together, both as friends and later as a couple. Even though I wanted to kick Kyden a few times for his caveman behavior, he genuinely cares about Nexi, which makes him all the more sexy. Near the climax of the book, they have some extremely touching moments that cemented their romance in my heart and mind.
The biggest issue I had with Werewolves Be Damned is that although there are some very dark moments, the whole mythology is very light and easy, and this juxtaposition bothered me. For example, Nexi had minimal training, including none with a sword, yet once she puts on her Xena uniform and handed a weapon, she can fight and move with natural grace. I can go with it because it’s fun and light and consistent with the story thus far. However, when the story attempts to turn somber and create moments that weigh heavy on your heart long after the title is over, I couldn’t connect with the gravity and magnitude of the situation. I wanted to care more about what was happening to Nexi, but I found that I wasn’t able.
The climatic scene is tense and exciting, bringing forth new information about Nexi and her heritage. I enjoyed the battle and its outcome. Not to mention I’m curiously interested as to where this series is headed. Nexi still has a lot to learn about her self, and I bet it will be interesting and action-packed.
Overall, I felt Werewolves Be Damned was entertaining and interesting, and I enjoyed the new mythology. I think I will like Nexi more and more as she develops and matures. While I enjoyed the themes and world-building, I felt it wasn't developed with enough seriousness to balance the intense, darker moments. However, I am curious to know what will happen next with Nexi and her companions.
My Rating:
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Liked it, but I had some issues - recommend (B)
Purchase Info:
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Review: Generation V by M.L. Brennan
Generation V
Author: M.L. Brennan
Release Date: May 7, 2013
Publisher: Roc
Fortitude Scott series #1
ASIN: 978-0451418401
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Fortitude Scott’s life is a mess. A degree in film theory has left him with zero marketable skills, his job revolves around pouring coffee, his roommate hasn’t paid rent in four months, and he’s also a vampire. Well, sort of. He’s still mostly human.
But when a new vampire comes into his family’s territory and young girls start going missing, Fort can’t ignore his heritage anymore. His mother and his older, stronger siblings think he’s crazy for wanting to get involved. So it’s up to Fort to take action, with the assistance of Suzume Hollis, a dangerous and sexy shape-shifter. Fort is determined to find a way to outsmart the deadly vamp, even if he isn’t quite sure how.
But without having matured into full vampirehood and with Suzume ready to split if things get too risky, Fort’s rescue mission might just kill him.…
What G & U are talking about:
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Generation V is a new and exciting urban fantasy debut novel from M.L. Brennan. This engrossing new vampire mythos is a thrilling and engaging suspense that is tempered with humor.
Our hero, Fortitude, is an average guy. That is... until he begins his transition into a vampire. In this world, vampires are born not made. As they mature, vampires are just like humans, except they must feed from their parent once a month until the transition begins. Fortitude is doing everything he can to postpone that transition for as long as he as he possibly can. Some of his methods are a bit akin to being a difficult child, but after being introduced to his older siblings, Prudence and Chivalry, we don't blame him. As he is trying to make his own way in the world (staying human) he rejects living with his mother and tries to make it out on his own. This is why he is living the life of a starved college student. His college degree in film theory seems to only get him so far, as he works for a dive coffee bar.
Something finally changes for Fort when a strange vampire enters his mother’s territory. Fort sees this as his opportunity to see if his family is better or worse than others out there. Sadly, he finds out that his family may actually be the more modern and new aged group than those out there. This chance meeting however, starts a chain reaction. As Fort tries to save a "pet" from this seemingly evil vampire's possession he discovers that this vampire may be collecting other young girls.
This quest that Fort finds himself on in Generation V also finds him with a reluctant but comical sidekick, Suzume, the kitsune bodyguard. Suzume has been assigned by Fort's mother to keep her son alive while the foreign vampire is in town. However, Suzume almost steals the spotlight between her more than capable skills and wonderful sarcastic wit. She and Fort make a very unlikely but wonderful team. The camaraderie and occasional tension between them brings laughter when needed and a sense of grounding as well.
The world building in Generation V is seamlessly intertwined with the plot. Part of this ease is that Fort had been reluctant to learn anything of the supernatural community. Simply put, he was trying to be as human as possible. However, being paired with Suzume, who is a fount of information - condescendingly offered, Fort learns about the other supernaturals. We look forward to learning more about this world that we have only been given a glimpse of.
If you are looking for a new and fascinating urban fantasy with Vampires in the center of it all, please pick up Generation V and follow our unlikely but strong and courageously hearted hero, Fort.
Their Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Purchase Info:
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Review: Cry Wolf Vol. 2 Graphic Novel by Patricia Briggs, et. al
Alpha and Omega: Cry Wolf Volume 2
Author: Patricia Briggs/ David Lawrence/ Todd Herman
Release Date: May 7, 2013
Publisher: InkLit
Alpha & Omega Graphic Novels
ISBN: #978-0425266281
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Graphic Novel
Format(s): Hardcover (112 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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A world of shapeshifting wolves comes vividly to life in this collection of four comics based on Cry Wolf, the first book in Patricia Briggs’s #1 New York Times bestselling Alpha and Omega series.
Charles and Anna are on the hunt for a rogue werewolf in the Montana mountains. The creature has morphed into something so dark that it kills everything in its path: deer, elk, grizzlies…humans.
But the wolf is the creature of something far more powerful. One of Charles and Anna’s own pack harbors a centuries-old secret that has come back to haunt him—and wreak vengeance on those around him.
Charles and Anna—unaware of the truth—are two innocents who stand in the way. But even as members of their pack rally around them, Anna’s rare power comes into its own—and is unleashed…
What G & U are talking about:
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WARNING: Please note that the series this graphic novel is based on is an ADULT urban fantasy series. Sometime we can easily mistake a graphic novel for being an acceptable young adult genre, a comic book if you will. That is not the case. There are very serious adult themes that take place in this story that are not appropriate for young children.
Gikany and Una need to make sure you understand before reading our review: we are die-hard Briggs fans. We have read her books numerous times over. To us, seeing the graphic novel is a way to experience beloved stories in a new way.
We read the last novel, Alpha & Omega: Cry Wolf Vol 1 and we are not surprised that the graphics remain as they were in Alpha & Omega: Cry Wolf Vol 2. It would be odd to have a character look differently or have the world appear changed in the next installment. That being said, we are still disappointed that Bran looks so much older than we feel he is characterized. However, the other characters all feel true to character in their depictions. We enjoy the way the artist captures the moments from the storyline.
Although there are a few tweaks in the storyline in Alpha & Omega: Cry Wolf Vol 2 it remains true to the essence of the story. We are not surprised by the subtle differences simply because a different media cannot always convey the story the same way.
Gikany and Una thoroughly enjoyed this second installment in the graphic series of Alpha and Omega and we eagerly look forward to the next. If you are a Briggs fan – pick this up – it is a great way to enjoy an author in a new way.
Their Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Friday, April 26, 2013
Review: Blood Trade by Faith Hunter
Blood Trade
Author: Faith Hunter
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: ROC
Jane Yellowrock Book 6
ISBN: #978-0451465061
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (368 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Jane Yellowrock is a shape-shifting skinwalker who’s always up for a fight—even if it means putting her life on the line…
The Master of Natchez, Mississippi has a nasty problem on his hands. Rogue vampires—those who follow the Naturaleza and believe that humans should be nothing more than prey to be hunted—are terrorizing his city. Luckily, he knows the perfect skinwalker to call in to take back the streets.
But what he doesn’t tell Jane is that there’s something different about these vamps. Something that makes them harder to kill—even for a pro like Jane. Now, her simple job has turned into a fight to stay alive…and to protect the desperately ill child left in her care.
What B is talking about:
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When a string of missing persons cases coincides with the rise of Naturaleza vampire attacks in Natchez, Mississippi, Jane Yellowrock makes a deal with the Master of the City to come in and fix the problem. But, when some of the missing turn out to be witches, and Jane has an encounter with a more deadly form of vampire than has ever been encountered before, the situation spins out of control fast, leaving Jane wondering if, this time, she’s really in over her head, and whether the events she’s set in motion will mean losing everyone she holds dear.
When I first began reading the Jane Yellowrock series, I wasn’t sure what to think of Jane, except that I always liked her strength and determination, even though it often got her, as well as anyone close to her, in trouble. Jane has always taken big chances in these novels, and the consequences for everyone involved have often been severe. But, over the last couple of novels, Jane has grown a lot and learned plenty, and I’ve found myself enjoying these tales far more than I anticipated I would.
In Blood Trade, Jane takes an outside job, seemingly against her boss’s wishes, and is quickly immersed in a battle that’s far more deadly than she was originally led to believe. On top of that, two former acquaintances from her childhood become involved, further upping the stakes. And, for the first time in as long as she can remember, Jane is surprised to find that she’s part of a family, one that’s certainly worth dying for, but, more importantly, one she desperately wants to keep. It’s a new world for Jane, but she’s determined to make it work out.
One of my favorite things about Jane is her dual nature, the lineage that makes her a “Skinwalker,” and divides her into two entities: the human part of herself, and her “Beast,” the mountain lion whose soul lives within her, and occasionally takes her over entirely. Jane is a remarkably stubborn, snarky woman who is at her best when she’s throwing herself into battle, and driving her boss, Leo Pellissier, completely insane. The latter is a lot of fun, because he really deserves it. Beast, on the other hand, is more primitive and direct, but is beautiful in both her sincerity and unfettered view of the world. She likes to fight and play and love, and it’s often highly entertaining to see Jane dragged along for the ride.
Jane’s support system has grown to include the Younger brothers, both of whom I like very much as well. A good deal of Blood Trade is spent letting Jane first adjust to, then be grateful for, then fight for the presence of these two in her life, giving a warmth to the story that I felt was lacking before. Theirs is a family chosen, not born, and I loved seeing their relationship evolve and settle into something humorous and comforting, as well as Jane’s repeated bouts of surprise at the changes that stealthily took place in her life without her really knowing. Moreover, I think Jane has simply become a better version of herself for it.
The suspense and action in Blood Trade is also some of the best I’ve read in the series yet. Jane is a vampire hunter, and it’s a deadly profession. Ms. Hunter’s enthusiasm for detail is evident in every description, be it of the arsenal Jane and Eli strap themselves into before each fight, or the battle to the death that seems to happen every time they leave their house. The language of these passages is rich and vivid, and even Jane’s visits to the spiritual realm are painted with a clarity that makes getting lost in the scene an easy thing to do.
Although it took me a while to warm to Jane, she’s easily one of the best female characters I’ve read in a long time. She is difficult, and a thorn in the side of the men around her, but I can’t imagine her any other way. Her curious mix of faith and heritage combine with a world filled with magics and mystical creatures to create a truly exciting backdrop for a story filled with action and mystery and just enough awkward romance to keep me hoping that Jane will find real happiness—and soon. The series continues to be pleasingly unpredictable, and while I have no idea what might be in store for Jane as the series progresses, I’m looking forward to continuing the journey.
B’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Review: Of Shadow Born by Dianne Sylvan
Of Shadow Born
Author: Dianne Sylvan
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Publisher: Ace
Shadow World #4
ISBN: # 978-0425259801
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (336 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Spread throughout the dark corners of our world lies the Shadow World, a society of vampires who feed off the living. In Austin, Texas, one woman must rise from the ashes of tragedy and confront an ancient evil before it destroys everything she holds dear…
After a heartrending night of loss and blood, Miranda Grey-Solomon, vampire Queen of the South, now stands in the ruins of her life determined to pick up the pieces and move on. David, her husband and Prime, is missing and presumed dead, and Miranda is lost without her soul mate by her side…But she has little time to grieve as enemies both old and new emerge to test her yet again.
Between vampires trying to take advantage of a Queen without a Prime, incursions by a mysterious organization of humans calling themselves the Order of the Morningstar, and the continuing threat from those within the Shadow World who have already tried to destroy her, Miranda and her allies are running out of places to turn. In order to save her territory and the ones she loves, Miranda must look to the ancient past, to the first days of the vampire race, and uncover secrets about the Signets that could change the course of history…
What G & U are talking about:
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Gikany and Una have just finished the latest novel in the Shadow Worlds series, Of Shadow Born. This book dawns on a definite new story arc; one that we are still trying to come to grips with.
**Please note there are series spoilers in this review. This series is best read from the beginning.
At the close of Shadow’s Fall, Miranda is seriously injured and David, well, we suspect he may be dead. The Awakening has come and yet nothing seems different. Except if David is indeed dead, why is Miranda still living – an unheard of situation between signets. The first half of Of Shadow Born answers the questions of David’s status and Miranda’s continued existence. The first part explores some of the heart-wrenching pain that Miranda experiences at David’s absence. It is not surprising. However, what is surprising is the care that is given to Miranda’s character and us, the readers. We are given a very heartfelt first chapter. We see new relationships begin and find out the fate and new plans for Jeremy – the one who brought about David’s demise. However, as the first part comes to a close, we were never prepared for what awaits in the second part.
Many avid series readers complain (especially in a very long running series) when the author seems to change the mythology or rules suddenly. There is some discussion that there is a change in the Shadow World mythology. However, we feel it is not a change…just additional information come to light. That being said, we really wonder where this discovery of another character/element will go. Please note; we are being vague in order to not spoil it for you. This interesting, and seemingly out of left field, tidbit seems outrageous and yet, depending on how it pans out in the next book could really enhance the world and story.
One element that has plagued Gikany and Una in this series is the author’s apparent love of killing beloved characters – sometimes many characters at a time. We are happily granted a reprieve in Of Shadow Born. We are still stunned and delighted that a character we met and started to like was not killed in some terribly painful and dramatic way. Not that many “people” didn’t die in the book, but luckily for us, they are mostly nameless extras.
Gikany and Una continue to enjoy the banter between the primes. We love the role that Stella took in Of Shadow Born. We hope to see more of Stella in the upcoming novels to watch her continue to grow in her abilities. The politics and the world continue to evolve and we enjoy watching how it changes. With the new cliffhanger information – we eagerly anticipate how this will impact the Shadow World. However, we do agree that although much is revealed and happens in Of Shadow Born, it does have a transitional novel feel. Not surprising considering what has happened, but in many ways we enjoyed this book more, although we are still very unsure of where things are headed. Either way, we anxiously await the next novel in the Shadows World.
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Liked it - recommend (B+)
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