Shera (Book Whispers)'s bookshelf: elementals en-US Fri, 16 Apr 2021 18:34:08 -0700 60 Shera (Book Whispers)'s bookshelf: elementals 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[By a Thread (Elemental Assassin, #6)]]> 11557982 When killing people is your job, there's no such thing as a vacation.

Then again, how often does an assassin live long enough to enjoy her retirement? In this line of work, you either get lucky or you get dead. And since I destroyed my nemesis Mab Monroe a few weeks ago, all of Ashland's lowlifes are gunning to make a name for themselves by taking out the lethal Spider--me, Gin Blanco. So I'm leaving behind my beloved barbecue joint and heading south with my baby sister, Bria, to cool my heels in a swanky beach town. Call it a weekend of fun in the sun. But when a powerful vampire with deadly elemental magic threatens an old friend of Bria's, it looks like I'll have to dig my silverstone knives out of my suitcase after all. Complicating matters further is the reappearance of Detective Donovan Caine, my old lover. But Donovan is the least of my problems. Because this time, the danger is hot on my trail, and not even my elemental Ice and Stone magic may be enough to save me from getting buried in the sand--permanently.

]]> 356 Jennifer Estep 1451651767 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.17 2012 By a Thread (Elemental Assassin, #6)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/04/16
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, ebook-p, ebook-second, elementals, 2012, ebook-s
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Widow's Web (Elemental Assassin, #7)]]> 13544917 I used to murder people for money, but these days it’s more of a survival technique.

Once an assassin, always an assassin. So much for being plain old Gin Blanco. With every lowlife in Ashland gunning for me, I don’t need another problem, but a new one has come to town.

Salina might seem like a sweet Southern belle, but she’s really a dangerous enemy whose water elemental magic can go head-to-head with my own Ice and Stone power. Salina also has an intimate history with my lover, Owen Grayson, and now that she’s back in town, she thinks he’s hers for the taking.

Salina’s playing a mysterious game that involves a shady local casino owner with a surprising connection to Owen. But they call me the Spider for a reason. I’m going to untangle her deadly scheme, even if it leaves my love affair hanging by a thread.]]> 408 Jennifer Estep 1451651791 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.17 2012 Widow's Web (Elemental Assassin, #7)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/07/10
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, ebook, elementals, 2012
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Sovereign Sacrifice (Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles, #4)]]> 52006973 Vi was supposed to be the perfect crown princess. Then, she abandoned her throne.
Vi was supposed to save the world as its Champion. Then, the world she loved vanished.

Now, all she knows is that she has deadly magic and brutal cunning and she's ready to settle some scores.

Old loves and new allies tell her to play it safe. But Vi is done with caution. She has a chance to right ancient wrongs and this princess-turned-warrior isn't turning back.

She's ready to bring an end to the vortex of death the world is trapped in.

The magic, romance, and epic adventure continue in book four of Air Vortex Chronicles. This series should be read in

Vortex Visions Chosen Champion Failed Future Sovereign Sacrifice Crystal Caged (Expected January 2020) ]]> 326 Elise Kova 1949694135 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.17 2019 Sovereign Sacrifice (Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles, #4)
author: Elise Kova
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/03/02
shelves: to-read, 2019, ebook, ya-fantasy, ya-epic-high-fantasy, elementals
review:

]]> Renegade (Elemental, #3) 18776533 The finale to the dystopian fantasy trilogy James Dashner called "fantastic" has a daring escape from pirates, life-or-death rescue missions, and a heartbreaking romance.

Thom and his fellow colonists are in danger of paying the ultimate price to secure their homeland in this last book of the Elemental trilogy. After the shocking discovery that his mother is still alive and on Roanoke, Thom is determined to return to that island. However, the island is still under pirate control, and a mysterious boy in possession of a dangerous element appears. With the help of an unlikely ally and the newly discovered ability to combine elements, Thom must summon the full extent of his power to end this battle for their home once and for all.

Packed with adventure, mystery, and romance, the gripping conclusion to the series that began with Elemental and Firenbrand is perfect for fans of Ship Breaker and Divergent.]]> 304 Antony John 0698175808 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.94 2014 Renegade (Elemental, #3)
author: Antony John
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2014, future-purchases-2014, ya-dystopian-apocalyptic, elementals
review:

]]> Sacrifice (Elemental, #5) 17149158
One misstep and they lose it all. For the last time.

Michael Merrick understands pressure. He's the only parent his three brothers have had for years. His power to control Earth could kill someone if he miscalculates. Now an Elemental Guide has it in for his family, and he's all that stands in the way.

His girlfriend, Hannah, understands pressure too. She's got a child of her own, and a job as a firefighter that could put her life in danger at any moment.

But there are people who have had enough of Michael's defiance, his family's 'bad luck'. Before he knows it, Michael's enemies have turned into the Merricks' enemies, and they're armed for war.

They're not interested in surrender. But Michael isn't the white flag type anyway. Everything is set for the final showdown.

Four elements, one family. Will they hold together, or be torn apart?]]> 324 Brigid Kemmerer 0758294395 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.00 2014 Sacrifice (Elemental, #5)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2014, ya-paranormal-uf, ebook, ebook-m, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Perilous Sea (The Elemental Trilogy, #2)]]> 20359719
Soon after arriving at school, though, Titus makes a shocking discovery, one that makes him question everything he previously believed about their mission. Faced with this devastating realization, Iolanthe is forced to come to terms with her new role, while Titus must choose between following his mother's prophecies—and forging a divergent path to an unknowable future.]]> 414 Sherry Thomas 0062329383 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.12 2014 The Perilous Sea (The Elemental Trilogy, #2)
author: Sherry Thomas
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2014, ya-fantasy, ebook, ebook-m, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Poison Promise (Elemental Assassin, #11)]]> 18745159
There’s a new drug on the streets of Ashland, and its name “Burn� sums up the potent effect it has on its users. When one of her restaurant employees is threatened by dealers of the drug, Gin steps in to set things straight...]]> 417 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.17 2014 Poison Promise (Elemental Assassin, #11)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2014, urban-fantasy, ebook, ebook-m, ebook-p, elementals
review:

]]> Secret (Elemental, #4) 17149088
Nick Merrick is stretched to breaking point. He's trying to keep his grades sky-high or he won't get in to college. He's trying to keep his brother's business afloat or the Merricks will be out on the street. He's trying to keep the secret of where he's going in the evenings from his twin brother Gabriel - or he fears he'll lose his family. And he's trying to keep his mind off the hot, self-assured dancer who is his 'girlfriend's' partner.

And then Quinn takes to hanging around his sworn enemy, and an Elemental Guide is counting the hours until he can try again to kill the Merrick brothers. Storms are brewing. On all sides.

SECRETS IN THE WIND. DANGER IN THE AIR.]]> 328 Brigid Kemmerer 0758294379 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.15 2014 Secret (Elemental, #4)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2014, ya-paranormal-uf, ebook-p, ebook-m, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Royal Airs (Elemental Blessings, #2)]]> 13578466
Josetta is a princess of one of the Five Families. But she is far from the throne, so she is free to spend her days working in the poorest sections of the city.

Rafe Adova, an outcast since he was born, lives the life of a career gambler in those slums. He has no ambition other than cheating at the card tables—until the night he decides to help a girl named Corene, who looks like she's stumbled into the wrong bar. She, too, is a princess—sister to Josetta, who finds her with Rafe. He fascinates her.

Josetta has never encountered anyone like him—someone seemingly devoid of elemental blessings. He is drawn to her, though he thinks they are unlikely to ever meet again—but their connection grows strong when she nurses him back to health after he is assaulted by foreign mercenaries.

And when they learn the reason he's being hunted, they know that the truth about his history could endanger not only their love but also their very lives...]]> 416 Sharon Shinn 1101589760 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.87 2013 Royal Airs (Elemental Blessings, #2)
author: Sharon Shinn
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2013, epic-and-high-fantasy, ya-fantasy, ebook, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Spider (Elemental Assassin, #10)]]> 17571671 The tenth book in the bestselling and “outstanding� (Romantic Times) Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series finally reveals for the first time the origins of Gin Blanco’s career as the deadliest of assassins.

For the first time, the origins of Gin Blanco’s career as the deadly assassin “the Spider� are revealed in full. In a story that pre-dates the other nine books in the series, Gin Blanco goes through her paces to become the most feared assassin in the Ashland.]]> 381 Jennifer Estep 1451689012 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.02 2013 The Spider (Elemental Assassin, #10)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2013, urban-fantasy, ebook, elementals
review:

]]> Firebrand (Elemental, #2) 17465441 Ěý
Thomas and his friends have rescued the Guardians and commandeered the pirates' ship, but the pirates still hold fast to Roanoke Island. Using his newly discovered element, Thomas hears a radio message calling for refugees to head toĚýFortĚýSumter. They sail south, but quickly discover that their elements wane as they leave Roanoke behind. There is something sinister going on in the refugee colony too. From the perilous food-gathering squads, to the constant threat of rat infestation, to dangerous secrets, Thomas and his colonists begin to realize that this promising new world may be even more terrifying than the one they left behind.

Fans of The Maze Runner and Ship Breaker will love the fast pace, high stakes, and touches of romance in this thrilling novel by an award-winning author.
Ěý]]> 304 Antony John 0803736835 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.90 2013 Firebrand (Elemental, #2)
author: Antony John
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2013, ya-dystopian-apocalyptic, ebook, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin, #9)]]> 16130369 The hotly anticipated ninth novel in the hugely popular Elemental Assassin series finds Gin Blanco on a dangerous mission to rescue a friend.

When a terror from the past threatens Gin’s friend and body-disposer, Sophia, Gin will stop at nothing to protect her, even if it means walking straight into a killer’s trap. Meanwhile, the rocky romance between Gin and Owen reaches a turning point—can they reunite and rekindle their love? Or will the things Gin has been forced to do in her line of work as the deadly assassin the Spider keep them apart forever? Assuming, that is, she survives long enough to find out…]]> 358 Jennifer Estep 1451689004 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.17 2013 Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin, #9)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2013, urban-fantasy, ebook, ebook-p, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Burning Sky (The Elemental Trilogy, #1)]]> 17332556 This is a previously published edition of ISBN13: 9780062207296.

It all began with a ruined elixir and a bolt of lightning.

Iolanthe Seabourne is the greatest elemental mage of her generation—or so she's been told. The one prophesied for years to be the savior of The Realm. It is her duty and destiny to face and defeat the Bane, the most powerful tyrant and mage the world has ever known. This would be a suicide task for anyone, let alone a reluctant sixteen-year-old girl with no training.

Guided by his mother's visions and committed to avenging his family, Prince Titus has sworn to protect Iolanthe even as he prepares her for their battle with the Bane. But he makes the terrifying mistake of falling in love with the girl who should have been only a means to an end. Now, with the servants of the tyrant closing in, Titus must choose between his mission—and her life.

The Burning Sky—the first book in the Elemental Trilogy—is an electrifying and unforgettable novel of intrigue and adventure.]]> 449 Sherry Thomas Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.90 2013 The Burning Sky (The Elemental Trilogy, #1)
author: Sherry Thomas
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2013, epic-and-high-fantasy, ya-fantasy, witches-mages-druids-wizards-other, ebook, ebook-m, read-now, elementals
review:

]]> Spirit (Elemental, #3) 13494365
Hunter Garrity just wants to be left alone. He's learned the hard way that his unusual abilities come at a price. And he can't seem to afford any allies.

He's up to his neck in hostiles. His grandfather, spoiling for a fight. The Merrick brothers, who think he ratted them out. Calla, the scheming psycho who wants to use him as bait.

Then there's Kate Sullivan, the new girl at school. She's not hostile. She's bold. Funny. Hot. But she's got an agenda, too.

With supposedly secret powers rippling to the surface everywhere around him, Hunter knows something ugly is about to go down. But finding out what means he'll have to find someone he can trust. . .]]> 301 Brigid Kemmerer 0758272839 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.96 2013 Spirit (Elemental, #3)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, future-purchases, future-purchases-2013, 2013, ya-paranormal-uf, elementals
review:

]]> Breathless (Elemental, #2.5) 15819003 Too many secrets. Not enough time.

Nick Merrick is supposed to be the level-headed one. The peacemaker. Since it’s just him and his three hotheaded brothers against the world, that’s a survival tactic.

But now he’s got problems even his brothers can’t help him survive.

His so-called girlfriend, Quinn, is going quick as mercury from daring to crazy. Meanwhile, Quinn’s dancer friend Adam is throwing Nick off balance, forcing him to recognize a truth he’d rather shove back into the dark.

He can feel it—the atmosphere is sizzling. Danger is on the way. But whatever happens next, Nick is starting to find out that sometimes nothing you do can keep the peace.]]> 65 Brigid Kemmerer 0758285531 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.00 2013 Breathless (Elemental, #2.5)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, 2013, ebook-m, ya-paranormal-uf, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Deadly Sting (Elemental Assassin, #8)]]> 14058669 Red is definitely my color. Good thing, because in my line of work, I end up wearing it a lot.

Most people shy away from blood, but for an assassin like me� Gin Blanco, aka the Spider—it’s just part of the job. Still, it would be nice to get a night off, especially when I’m attending the biggest gala event of the summer at Briartop, Ashland’s fanciest art museum. But it’s just not meant to be. For this exhibition of my late nemesis’s priceless possessions is not only the place to be seen, but the place to be robbed and taken hostage at gunpoint as well. No sooner did I get my champagne than a bunch of the unluckiest thieves ever burst into the museum and started looting the place.

Unlucky why? Because I brought along a couple of knives in addition to my killer dress. Add these to my Ice and Stone magic, and nothing makes me happier than showing the bad guys why red really is my color.]]> 369 Jennifer Estep 1451688997 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.13 2013 Deadly Sting (Elemental Assassin, #8)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, 2013, ebook, elementals
review:

]]> Elemental (Elemental, #1) 9409362 A lost colony is reborn in this heart-pounding fantasy adventure set in the near future . . .

Sixteen-year-old Thomas has always been an outsider. The first child born without the power of an Element—earth, water, wind or fire—he has little to offer his tiny, remote Outer Banks colony. Or so the Guardians would have him believe.

In the wake of an unforeseen storm, desperate pirates kidnap the Guardians, intent on claiming the island as their own. Caught between the plague-ridden mainland and the advancing pirates, Thomas and his friends fight for survival in the battered remains of a mysterious abandoned settlement. But the secrets they unearth will turn Thomas� world upside-down, and bring to light not only a treacherous past but also a future more dangerous than he can possibly imagine.]]> 326 Antony John 0803736827 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.68 2012 Elemental (Elemental, #1)
author: Antony John
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ya-dystopian-apocalyptic, ebook, ebook-m, elementals, 2012
review:

]]> Spark (Elemental, #2) 12977172 345 Brigid Kemmerer 0758272820 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.13 2012 Spark (Elemental, #2)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ya-paranormal-uf, ebook, elementals, 2012
review:

]]> Fearless (Elemental, #1.5) 13503581
Hunter Garrity is used to watching his back. The kids at school sense something different about him. And they’re right.

Hunter has powers that have nothing to do with how hard he can throw a punch.

Maybe that’s what Clare Kasten is picking up. She’s shy, quiet, and intense, but she’s sought him out. There’s no telling what she wants from him.

But Hunter knows enough to sense a secret when it’s close. And getting close to Clare is a danger he’s ready to face…]]> 44 Brigid Kemmerer 0758285523 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.71 2012 Fearless (Elemental, #1.5)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, ebook-m, ya-paranormal-uf, elementals, 2012
review:

]]> Storm (Elemental, #1) 13614844
Ever since her ex-boyfriend spread those lies about her, Becca Chandler is suddenly getting all the guys—all the ones she doesn't want. Then she saves Chris Merrick from a beating in the school parking lot. Chris is different. Way different: he can control water—just like his brothers can control fire, wind, and earth. They’re powerful. Dangerous. Marked for death.

And now that she knows the truth, so is Becca.

Secrets are hard to keep when your life’s at stake. When Hunter, the mysterious new kid around school, turns up with a talent for being in the wrong place at the right time, Becca thinks she can trust him. But then Hunter goes head-to-head with Chris, and Becca wonders who’s hiding the most dangerous truth of all.

The storm is coming . . .]]> 337 Brigid Kemmerer 075828005X Shera (Book Whispers) 2
That said I enjoyed it. To me it was a fun read, I liked the idea of a YA version of Rachel Caine's Weather Warden series. Elemental does well with the idea that I never thought that it was a rip off of said series. The writing was pretty fun and I enjoyed all of the brothers, and added hottie. The brothers have a very interesting dynamic to them and I look forward to each of their books, oh and the hottie AKA Hunter.

What I didn't like was the overall plot. Gosh is was so obvious that I felt like I should have just put the book down because I knew exactly what was going to be “revealed� and la-dee-dah. However, I kept reading because it looked like Becca—oh, and let me get to that mess in moment—and Chris were the leads telling the story, but Hunter entered as the new hot transfer student and it seemed like he had a real chance with Becca. Of course his “plot� twist meant drama that I'd usually say dump the guy for. The problem was the majority of the book evolves around Hunter and Becca dating. Even with Chris telling part of the story he felt like a third wheel and not part of the main romance. Even the ending was so, eh. Eh.

It didn't help that I loathed Becca. Loathed. Not disliked, loathed. Dear authors making a nice and empathetic character does not mean you need to make them feel like blank slates. Becca felt like a telling character, you know the author is telling me she's supposed to be really brave and all this. Oh, and the blushing. I'm a blusher, but I don't freaking blush like that!! I'd pass out. Over heat and probably kill myself. I will give props to Kemmerer for addressing the subject of sexual pressure among teens. For how a girl can blame herself and simply want the whole mess to just disappear. However, what I don't get is if you're afraid of going to a party because your ex might rape you in front of everyone (and that's only her 5th worry, hate to know what the other top 4 are) don't effing go to the party! Oh, and no matter how kind you are do not wander off alone no matter how safe it looks.

Becca-Becca-Becca! You dumb girl. She put the whole too stupid to live thing into the light. She gets mad at the wrong people. If something traumatic happens and your passive and just taking the kicks, I understand. However, Becca would have these moments to show readers how strong she really was, but she was being aggressive to the wrong people. Which I get in a way, but most of the time it's a game as to what really happened with Becca and she's dumb enough that I really started to wonder . . . if she even knew what happened. Or if it was like a forced kiss gone wrong and or something mild blown out of proportion. That's how bad she was.

Beside the cast of brothers being really cool and my enjoyment of Hunter, I will say I was really disappointed in the lack of Chris. Honestly this felt more like Hunter's book, only he didn't have narration time. And no it's not a spoiler, we all know how these books work! The flip happens and Chris gets the girl, only I didn't give a fudge. Ya know it's gonna happen, and sadly both love interests are underdeveloped. Becca's best friend Quinn even got on my nerves and I'm worried about the book she'll have as she's pretty uncaring, an over the top drama queen, and a bitch—no I didn't think she was very “spunky� just mean.

Back to that plot. Storm is a really cool concept with the Elemental universe, like I said I'd been waiting for a YA title to do this idea. Yet the plot felt like someone's connect the dots on how to write a book. Within the first 30 pages, once all the elements are introduced—and even before those elements are added—I was all “oh, this is going to happen and then they'll go with this whole schpeel and try to do this silly plot twist.� And yeah, I was write on. If you're one of those people who can anticipate plots and know where a story is going this is one of those books.

Overall with the predictable A to B plot, with an unshocking twist tossed in, and a lead I loathed, it's puzzling as to why I enjoyed this book. Especially since the subject of sexual harassment, sexual pressures, and rape were such . . . props in the story. It was insulting. Especially since it was supposed to be a huge part of this book. Either go all the way, or go home! Please do not tip toe around subjects like this. And don't . . ugh. The world is interesting, but underdeveloped. The writing is nothing to bedazzled over. And besides the brothers and Hunter, the other characters and generic and cut outs. Oh, the brothers and Hunter are cut outs/generic characters too. Maybe it's the potential. Yes, I will be looking into the rest of the books. Let's hope the next ones buck up.

Sexual Content: Sexual humor and some dark sexual content. Nothing over the top though, the kids will live. Though I don’t have a drug content, but white out on nails . . . pretty sure that’s how kids in my grade got high. Why wasn’t that ever addressed? Or was the Kemmerer just unaware, or thought it was normal to add it . . .

2/5- Average/disappointing, library check-out.

Originally reviewed at .
]]> 3.85 2012 Storm (Elemental, #1)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2012
rating: 2
read at: 2014/08/20
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: ya-paranormal-uf, unique-magical-creatures, ebook, ebook-m, elementals, 2012
review:
Right up front I'm going to put it out there: I don't think this book was worth all the buzz.

That said I enjoyed it. To me it was a fun read, I liked the idea of a YA version of Rachel Caine's Weather Warden series. Elemental does well with the idea that I never thought that it was a rip off of said series. The writing was pretty fun and I enjoyed all of the brothers, and added hottie. The brothers have a very interesting dynamic to them and I look forward to each of their books, oh and the hottie AKA Hunter.

What I didn't like was the overall plot. Gosh is was so obvious that I felt like I should have just put the book down because I knew exactly what was going to be “revealed� and la-dee-dah. However, I kept reading because it looked like Becca—oh, and let me get to that mess in moment—and Chris were the leads telling the story, but Hunter entered as the new hot transfer student and it seemed like he had a real chance with Becca. Of course his “plot� twist meant drama that I'd usually say dump the guy for. The problem was the majority of the book evolves around Hunter and Becca dating. Even with Chris telling part of the story he felt like a third wheel and not part of the main romance. Even the ending was so, eh. Eh.

It didn't help that I loathed Becca. Loathed. Not disliked, loathed. Dear authors making a nice and empathetic character does not mean you need to make them feel like blank slates. Becca felt like a telling character, you know the author is telling me she's supposed to be really brave and all this. Oh, and the blushing. I'm a blusher, but I don't freaking blush like that!! I'd pass out. Over heat and probably kill myself. I will give props to Kemmerer for addressing the subject of sexual pressure among teens. For how a girl can blame herself and simply want the whole mess to just disappear. However, what I don't get is if you're afraid of going to a party because your ex might rape you in front of everyone (and that's only her 5th worry, hate to know what the other top 4 are) don't effing go to the party! Oh, and no matter how kind you are do not wander off alone no matter how safe it looks.

Becca-Becca-Becca! You dumb girl. She put the whole too stupid to live thing into the light. She gets mad at the wrong people. If something traumatic happens and your passive and just taking the kicks, I understand. However, Becca would have these moments to show readers how strong she really was, but she was being aggressive to the wrong people. Which I get in a way, but most of the time it's a game as to what really happened with Becca and she's dumb enough that I really started to wonder . . . if she even knew what happened. Or if it was like a forced kiss gone wrong and or something mild blown out of proportion. That's how bad she was.

Beside the cast of brothers being really cool and my enjoyment of Hunter, I will say I was really disappointed in the lack of Chris. Honestly this felt more like Hunter's book, only he didn't have narration time. And no it's not a spoiler, we all know how these books work! The flip happens and Chris gets the girl, only I didn't give a fudge. Ya know it's gonna happen, and sadly both love interests are underdeveloped. Becca's best friend Quinn even got on my nerves and I'm worried about the book she'll have as she's pretty uncaring, an over the top drama queen, and a bitch—no I didn't think she was very “spunky� just mean.

Back to that plot. Storm is a really cool concept with the Elemental universe, like I said I'd been waiting for a YA title to do this idea. Yet the plot felt like someone's connect the dots on how to write a book. Within the first 30 pages, once all the elements are introduced—and even before those elements are added—I was all “oh, this is going to happen and then they'll go with this whole schpeel and try to do this silly plot twist.� And yeah, I was write on. If you're one of those people who can anticipate plots and know where a story is going this is one of those books.

Overall with the predictable A to B plot, with an unshocking twist tossed in, and a lead I loathed, it's puzzling as to why I enjoyed this book. Especially since the subject of sexual harassment, sexual pressures, and rape were such . . . props in the story. It was insulting. Especially since it was supposed to be a huge part of this book. Either go all the way, or go home! Please do not tip toe around subjects like this. And don't . . ugh. The world is interesting, but underdeveloped. The writing is nothing to bedazzled over. And besides the brothers and Hunter, the other characters and generic and cut outs. Oh, the brothers and Hunter are cut outs/generic characters too. Maybe it's the potential. Yes, I will be looking into the rest of the books. Let's hope the next ones buck up.

Sexual Content: Sexual humor and some dark sexual content. Nothing over the top though, the kids will live. Though I don’t have a drug content, but white out on nails . . . pretty sure that’s how kids in my grade got high. Why wasn’t that ever addressed? Or was the Kemmerer just unaware, or thought it was normal to add it . . .

2/5- Average/disappointing, library check-out.

Originally reviewed at .

]]> Elemental (Elemental, #0.5) 13418864 Earth, Fire, Air, Water � they are more than you dream.

As an air Elemental, 17-year-old Emily Morgan doesn’t have much power. That’s okay—she knows what happens to kids who do.

Like Michael Merrick. He’s an earth Elemental, one with enough power to level cities. Which makes him sexy. Dangerous. And completely off limits. At least according to Emily’s family.

But her summer job puts her in close contact with Michael, and neither of them can help the attraction they feel. When forces of nature like theirs collide, one misstep could get someone killed. Because Emily’s family doesn’t just want her to stay away from him.

They want him dead.]]> 50 Brigid Kemmerer Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.80 2012 Elemental (Elemental, #0.5)
author: Brigid Kemmerer
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, ya-paranormal-uf, elementals, 2012
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Spider’s Revenge (Elemental Assassin, #5)]]> 10290243
Killing used to be my reg­u­lar gig, after all. Gin Blanco, aka the Spi­der, assassin-for-hire. And I was very good at it. Now, I’m ready to make the one hit that truly mat­ters: Mab Mon­roe, the dan­ger­ous Fire ele­men­tal who mur­dered my fam­ily when I was thir­teen.

Oh, I don’t think the mis­sion will be easy, but turns out it’s a bit more prob­lem­atic than expected. The bitch knows I’m com­ing for her. So now I’m up against the army of lethal bounty hunters she hired to track me down. She also put a price on my baby sister’s head. Keep­ing Bria safe is my first pri­or­ity. Tak­ing Mab out is a close sec­ond.

Good thing I’ve got my pow­er­ful Stone and Ice magic � and my irre­sistible lover Owen Grayson � to watch my back. This bat­tle has been years in the mak­ing, and there’s a chance I won’t sur­vive. But if I’m going down, then Mab’s com­ing with me...no mat­ter what I have to do to make that happen.]]> 400 Jennifer Estep 1439192669 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.19 2011 Spider’s Revenge (Elemental Assassin, #5)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, urban-fantasy, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Spider’s Nemesis (Elemental Assassin, #4.5)]]> 13361336 Tangled Threads. It is told from the point of view of Mab Monroe and shows how the Fire elemental grew up, including her first meeting with Eira Snow, Gin’s mother.]]> 35 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.01 2011 Spider’s Nemesis (Elemental Assassin, #4.5)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, ebook-m, urban-fantasy, anthologies-shortstories, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dangerous (Element Preservers, #1)]]> 25572565
Eighteen-year-old Ria, a fire elemental and privileged student at the University of Magic, thinks nothing can get in the way of her happiness. Even when she falls for Michael, a boy whose element is different from hers, she is determined to make their forbidden romance work.

But when she starts experiencing the symptoms of magic disease that could rob her of her element, turn her into a cold-blooded killer, and shatter her life, all of her beliefs are put to the test. The only one who might be able to help her is Adrian, a mysterious, charming, and dangerous magic disease carrier, who also happens to be her least favorite person in the world.]]> Alycia Linwood Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.85 2011 Dangerous (Element Preservers, #1)
author: Alycia Linwood
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, future-purchases, future-purchases-2011, ya-paranormal-uf, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Tangled Threads (Elemental Assassin, #4)]]> 8675994 feelings.

But here I am. Gin Blanco, the semi-retired assassin known as the Spider. Hovering outside sexy businessman Owen Grayson’s front door like a nervous teenage girl. One thing I like about Owen: he doesn’t shy away from my past—or my present. And right now I have a bull’s-eye on my forehead.

Cold-blooded Fire elemental Mab Monroe has hired one of the smartest assassins in the business to trap me. Elektra LaFleur is skilled and efficient, with deadly electrical elemental magic as potent as my own Ice and Stone powers. Which means there’s a fifty-fifty chance one of us won’t survive this battle. I intend to kill LaFleur—or die trying—because Mab wants the assassin to take out my baby sister, Detective Bria Coolidge, too.

The only problem is, Bria has no idea I’m her long-lost sibling . . . or that I’m the murderer she’s been chasing through Ashland for weeks. And what Bria doesn’t know just might get us both dead. . . .]]> 357 Jennifer Estep 1439192634 Shera (Book Whispers) 5
Gin doesn't fall prey to sex hang-ups, judging others (how can she do that after all she's done and lived through), she's actually witty, and despite her legendary status as the Spider she is human. Not quite to the degree of us normal non-assassin types, but that's the true charm. Because despite all of her badassery she is human, she's relatable, and I adore how Estep has realized Gin.

From the get go Gin has been so real and a character I respect. Which is funny considering she's a despicable assassin. The thing is her codes and rules are what set her apart. Especially since she does still have a heart. And since Fletcher's death she's slowly becoming even more alive. Which may or may not make her stronger in her show down with Mab. (But I think having more to live for and protect is what makes Gin amazing.) This is Gin's hero journey and I love it. Especially because it's accompanied by Gin just taking out the villains in good old fashion blood baths. Which only highlights how human she is by worrying about love and how things will turn out once those loved ones find out who she truly is as the Spider. Because she can't take that back and she won't.

Now let's get back to her stone cold heart that's waking up. Tangled Threads made me extremely nervous on how the yummy Owen Grayson would be handled and Gin's little sister Bria. Gin might be tough but she got her self in a bad way with Detective Asshole (Donovan Caine) and had her heart broken. More than she'd like to let on. So things started off a little rocky. Then Owend and Gin started earning one another. It sounds tacky, but Owen and Gin are my new favorite couple. They're relationship is real and I don't feel like it's just a trope to make fans squee.

That said I loved how everything else played out in Tangled Threads. Obviously Mab has to handle her Spider issue and what better way to kill an assassin than with another assassin. Elektra was amazing! Talk about despicable killers to show the other side of the coin. It's interesting getting all of these extra glimpses of Mab, especially when interacting with her hired assassin.

Bria is a very interesting character and I already love her. Even if she has the power to totally break Gin's heart. Not to mention that little Finn and Bria thing we were all kind of hoping for . . . well I won't spoil it. It's magical how amazing Gin's family is and it's a treat getting to be with them. I'm especially looking forward to some back story on the Deveraux sisters. More of Fletcher's ties to Gin's family is revealed and it's perfect. The pacing of Tangled Threads is on point and the whole book moves so effortlessly. It setups so much for the future books, but it didn't feel like a setup. The journey to take down Mab isn't going to be easy, and I love that Gin won't stoop to Mab's level. Gin won't hesitate to take out her enemy, but she still has her own set of rules to live by.

Sexual Content: Sexual humor, some dark themes, and yes there be sex scenes.

5/5- Fabulous, a beautiful obsession!

Originally reviewed at .
]]> 4.14 2011 Tangled Threads (Elemental Assassin, #4)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at: 2015/11/07
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: urban-fantasy, ebook-second, ebook, vampire, witches-mages-druids-wizards-other, elementals, 2011
review:
It's so cliché to say this after finishing a book in a series, but this is my favorite one yet! This book and series is worth all the buzz. Gin is one of my favorite females of the Urban Fantasy genre, and basically just my favorite female lead in general. She's the perfect antihero. Not only that but I love how Estep doesn't justify Gin and her motives, she accepts that she is a monster. A monster with a heart, but one never the less. Oh and she's unapologetic.

Gin doesn't fall prey to sex hang-ups, judging others (how can she do that after all she's done and lived through), she's actually witty, and despite her legendary status as the Spider she is human. Not quite to the degree of us normal non-assassin types, but that's the true charm. Because despite all of her badassery she is human, she's relatable, and I adore how Estep has realized Gin.

From the get go Gin has been so real and a character I respect. Which is funny considering she's a despicable assassin. The thing is her codes and rules are what set her apart. Especially since she does still have a heart. And since Fletcher's death she's slowly becoming even more alive. Which may or may not make her stronger in her show down with Mab. (But I think having more to live for and protect is what makes Gin amazing.) This is Gin's hero journey and I love it. Especially because it's accompanied by Gin just taking out the villains in good old fashion blood baths. Which only highlights how human she is by worrying about love and how things will turn out once those loved ones find out who she truly is as the Spider. Because she can't take that back and she won't.

Now let's get back to her stone cold heart that's waking up. Tangled Threads made me extremely nervous on how the yummy Owen Grayson would be handled and Gin's little sister Bria. Gin might be tough but she got her self in a bad way with Detective Asshole (Donovan Caine) and had her heart broken. More than she'd like to let on. So things started off a little rocky. Then Owend and Gin started earning one another. It sounds tacky, but Owen and Gin are my new favorite couple. They're relationship is real and I don't feel like it's just a trope to make fans squee.

That said I loved how everything else played out in Tangled Threads. Obviously Mab has to handle her Spider issue and what better way to kill an assassin than with another assassin. Elektra was amazing! Talk about despicable killers to show the other side of the coin. It's interesting getting all of these extra glimpses of Mab, especially when interacting with her hired assassin.

Bria is a very interesting character and I already love her. Even if she has the power to totally break Gin's heart. Not to mention that little Finn and Bria thing we were all kind of hoping for . . . well I won't spoil it. It's magical how amazing Gin's family is and it's a treat getting to be with them. I'm especially looking forward to some back story on the Deveraux sisters. More of Fletcher's ties to Gin's family is revealed and it's perfect. The pacing of Tangled Threads is on point and the whole book moves so effortlessly. It setups so much for the future books, but it didn't feel like a setup. The journey to take down Mab isn't going to be easy, and I love that Gin won't stoop to Mab's level. Gin won't hesitate to take out her enemy, but she still has her own set of rules to live by.

Sexual Content: Sexual humor, some dark themes, and yes there be sex scenes.

5/5- Fabulous, a beautiful obsession!

Originally reviewed at .

]]> <![CDATA[Wasted (Elemental Assassin, #2.7)]]> 11478401 Web of Lies and Venom. One day, a beau­ti­ful woman walks into the bank where Finn works, and trou­ble soon fol­lows.]]> 12 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.92 2011 Wasted (Elemental Assassin, #2.7)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, anthologies-shortstories, urban-fantasy, ebook, ebook-m, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Web of Death (Elemental Assassin, #1.5)]]> 11478390 Spider’s Bite but before the begin­ning of Web of Lies. In "Web of Death," Gin Blanco’s retire­ment is inter­rupted by some unwanted guests.]]> 8 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.87 2011 Web of Death (Elemental Assassin, #1.5)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, anthologies-shortstories, urban-fantasy, ebook, ebook-m, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Spider's Bargain (Elemental Assassin, #0.5)]]> 11478167 Spider’s Bite, the first book in the Elemental Assassin series. In "Spider’s Bargain," Gin Blanco takes on a corrupt cop, but only one of them will be left standing in the end.]]> 9 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.86 2011 Spider's Bargain (Elemental Assassin, #0.5)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, ebook-m, urban-fantasy, anthologies-shortstories, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Tangled Dreams (Elemental Assassin, #3.5)]]> 11478407 Venom and Tan­gled Threads. It’s told from the points of view of Jo-Jo Dev­er­aux and her sis­ter, Sophia Dev­er­aux. When a car­jacker fol­lows an injured Gin back to Jo-Jo’s beauty salon, Jo-Jo and Sophia join forced to elim­i­nate the threat.]]> 10 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.98 2011 Tangled Dreams (Elemental Assassin, #3.5)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, ebook-m, urban-fantasy, anthologies-shortstories, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Tangled Schemes (Elemental Assassin, #3.7)]]> 11478428 Spider’s Bite and end­ing right before the begin­ning of Tan­gled Threads. It’s told from Detec­tive Bria Coolidge’s point of view and shows her search for her long-lost sis­ter Genevieve Snow. What Bria doesn’t know is what she’s going to do about the fact that Genevieve also hap­pens to be the assas­sin the Spi­der.]]> 15 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.95 2011 Tangled Schemes (Elemental Assassin, #3.7)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, anthologies-shortstories, urban-fantasy, ebook, ebook-m, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Web of Deceit (Elemental Assassin, #0.2)]]> 11478192 10 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.98 2011 Web of Deceit (Elemental Assassin, #0.2)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, anthologies-shortstories, urban-fantasy, ebook, ebook-m, elementals, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Sword of Fire and Sea (The Chaos Knight, #1)]]> 9766146
The priestess Endera has called upon Vidarian to fulfill his family’s obligation by transporting a young fire priestess named Ariadel to a water temple far to the south, through dangerous pirate-controlled territory. A journey perilous in the best of conditions is made more so by their pursuers: rogue telepathic magic-users called the Vkortha who will stop at nothing to recover Ariadel, who has witnessed their forbidden rites.

Together, Vidarian and Ariadel will navigate more than treacherous waters: Imperial intrigue, a world that has been slowly losing its magic for generations, secrets that the priestesshoods have kept for longer, the indifference of their elemental goddesses, gryphons—once thought mythical—now returning to the world, and their own labyrinthine family legacies. Vidarian finds himself at the intersection not only of the world’s most volatile elements, but of colliding universes, and the ancient and alien powers that lurk between them.]]> 277 Erin Hoffman 1616143738 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.39 2011 Sword of Fire and Sea (The Chaos Knight, #1)
author: Erin Hoffman
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.39
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, epic-and-high-fantasy, elementals, ebook-m, ebook, unique-magical-creatures, 2011
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Total Eclipse (Weather Warden, #9)]]> 7048787 New York Times bestselling author of the Morganville Vampires novels

Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin, her husband, the djinn David, and the Earth herself have been poisoned by a substance that destroys the magic that keeps the world alive. The poison is destabilizing the entire balance of power, bestowing magic upon those who have never had it, and removing it from those who need it. It's just a matter of time before the delicate balance of nature explodes into chaos-and doom.]]> 320 Rachel Caine 0451463455 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.10 2010 Total Eclipse (Weather Warden, #9)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, unique-magical-creatures, urban-fantasy, djinn-or-genie, elementals, 2010
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Venom (Elemental Assassin, #3)]]> 7614747 What kind of assassin works pro bono?

It’s hard to be a badass assassin when a giant is beating the crap out of you. Luckily, I never let pride get in the way of my work. My current mission is personal: annihilate Mab Monroe, the Fire elemental who murdered my family. Which means protecting my identity, even if I have to conceal my powerful Stone and Ice magic when I need it most.

To the public, I’m Gin Blanco, owner of Ashland’s best barbecue joint. To my friends, I’m the Spider, retired assassin. I still do favors on the side. Like ridding a vampire friend of her oversized stalker—Mab’s right-hand goon who almost got me dead with his massive fists.

At least irresistible Owen Grayson is on my side. The man knows too much about me, but I’ll take my chances. Then there’s Detective Bria Coolidge, one of Ashland’s finest. Until recently, I thought my baby sister was dead. She probably thinks the same about me. Little does she know, I’m a cold-blooded killer . . . who is about to save her life.]]> 389 Jennifer Estep 1439148015 Shera (Book Whispers) 5
Now I'm not going to go on and on like my last review, because to be far Venom is not a romance. But Gin is coming into her own. she’s realized finding her path is realizing the type of people she needs in her life. She's tough and though she's said she knows who she is and will have no regrets about what she's done. She still fears what others will think, in the back of her mind where she doesn't want to admit it. For me that makes her more real, and human. We've all picked the wrong man—person. Made justifications for them, why we are the bad guy and don't deserve them.

It was wonderful watching Gin come to see Owen Grayson. Because the man is sexy! OK, sexy isn't a reason. The Detective Caine was sexy, but he was a total evil asshole. Owen is protective, and alpha, and he does what needs to be done to protect his family. He's worked hard to get where he is, and knows the world isn't black and white. There are gray areas and sometimes terrible things need to be done. The funny thing is even though Owen has done some bad things in the past, he has more compassion and heart than Caine. Argh! There's just no words to describe how much I loved Owen and Gin together. It was a real treat getting to know him, and . . . just read it!!!

OK, enough about that I loved getting to meet Gin's sister as well. Like Gin, Bria is a force to be reckoned with. All of the interactions between the two are amazing and it's building this burning anticipation for them to REALLY meet. Bria is filling Caine's shoes in Ashland as the straight and narrow cop. Which worried me at first, but Bria is not the female version of Caine. No . . .I . . . I love her too!

Which brings me to the most shocking words: I love all of the characters so much. From dark Sophia and light and wonderful Jojo, to Finn the smooth operator, O-W-E-N, Bria, and well there's so many. It's wonderful to be in love with so many characters like this! To see how they all work together and interact. To fear that they might die . . . because Elemental Assassin is that kind of series. Oh, and I enjoy the evilness and wickedness of the villains. Things aren’t wrapped up fast with them, these are epic villains.

Gin has finally decided what she wants to do with her retirement, and finding her way there is quite the journey. Once more is that even though Fletcher is dead Estep shows readers and Gin who the man really was. As the plot unfolds and the mysteries come to light readers will find an even richer story than the previous books. Estep has out done herself and it's safe to say the Elemental Assassins universe is perfection for me. Everything comes with consequences and the characters' lives go on and develop. Again I have to mention how they all interact with each other and how it drives the plot.

Isn't it amazing to be rooting for killers. Hoping that Gin will get her revenge. Venom is filled with monsters, and only those who have danced with the monsters—and at times become monsters themselves—can truly be heroes in Ashland. Venom is a rush and as Gin takes those first few steps at setting up her revenge game fans can’t help put foam at the mouth for more.

Sexual Content: Oh, it’s here. Plenty of sexual humor (Finn!), dark sexual themes, and so on. It’s very gritty at times. The book follows a serial rapist/killer. Nothing too over the top, but it’s dark.

5/5- Fabulous, a beautiful obsession!

Originally reviewed at . ]]> 4.16 2010 Venom (Elemental Assassin, #3)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2010
rating: 5
read at: 2014/11/26
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: urban-fantasy, witches-mages-druids-wizards-other, ebook, ebook-second, elementals, 2010
review:
Ahhhhh! So good. Keri Arthur taught me one thing about hating the male love interests. When the new man shows up, or the despised male lead finally turns around, things can get really good. Ah, so good. Owen Grayson. Amazing. Amazing.

Now I'm not going to go on and on like my last review, because to be far Venom is not a romance. But Gin is coming into her own. she’s realized finding her path is realizing the type of people she needs in her life. She's tough and though she's said she knows who she is and will have no regrets about what she's done. She still fears what others will think, in the back of her mind where she doesn't want to admit it. For me that makes her more real, and human. We've all picked the wrong man—person. Made justifications for them, why we are the bad guy and don't deserve them.

It was wonderful watching Gin come to see Owen Grayson. Because the man is sexy! OK, sexy isn't a reason. The Detective Caine was sexy, but he was a total evil asshole. Owen is protective, and alpha, and he does what needs to be done to protect his family. He's worked hard to get where he is, and knows the world isn't black and white. There are gray areas and sometimes terrible things need to be done. The funny thing is even though Owen has done some bad things in the past, he has more compassion and heart than Caine. Argh! There's just no words to describe how much I loved Owen and Gin together. It was a real treat getting to know him, and . . . just read it!!!

OK, enough about that I loved getting to meet Gin's sister as well. Like Gin, Bria is a force to be reckoned with. All of the interactions between the two are amazing and it's building this burning anticipation for them to REALLY meet. Bria is filling Caine's shoes in Ashland as the straight and narrow cop. Which worried me at first, but Bria is not the female version of Caine. No . . .I . . . I love her too!

Which brings me to the most shocking words: I love all of the characters so much. From dark Sophia and light and wonderful Jojo, to Finn the smooth operator, O-W-E-N, Bria, and well there's so many. It's wonderful to be in love with so many characters like this! To see how they all work together and interact. To fear that they might die . . . because Elemental Assassin is that kind of series. Oh, and I enjoy the evilness and wickedness of the villains. Things aren’t wrapped up fast with them, these are epic villains.

Gin has finally decided what she wants to do with her retirement, and finding her way there is quite the journey. Once more is that even though Fletcher is dead Estep shows readers and Gin who the man really was. As the plot unfolds and the mysteries come to light readers will find an even richer story than the previous books. Estep has out done herself and it's safe to say the Elemental Assassins universe is perfection for me. Everything comes with consequences and the characters' lives go on and develop. Again I have to mention how they all interact with each other and how it drives the plot.

Isn't it amazing to be rooting for killers. Hoping that Gin will get her revenge. Venom is filled with monsters, and only those who have danced with the monsters—and at times become monsters themselves—can truly be heroes in Ashland. Venom is a rush and as Gin takes those first few steps at setting up her revenge game fans can’t help put foam at the mouth for more.

Sexual Content: Oh, it’s here. Plenty of sexual humor (Finn!), dark sexual themes, and so on. It’s very gritty at times. The book follows a serial rapist/killer. Nothing too over the top, but it’s dark.

5/5- Fabulous, a beautiful obsession!

Originally reviewed at .
]]> <![CDATA[Troubled Waters (Elemental Blessings, #1)]]> 7908762
It’s there that Zoe realizes she is a coru prime ruled by the elemental sign of water. She must return to the palace, not as an unwilling bride for the king, but a woman with power in her own right. But as Zoe unlocks more of the mysteries of her blood � and the secrets of the royal family � she must decide how to use her great power to rise above the deceptions and intrigue of the royal court.]]> 400 Sharon Shinn 0441019234 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.00 2010 Troubled Waters (Elemental Blessings, #1)
author: Sharon Shinn
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, epic-and-high-fantasy, ya-fantasy, elementals, 2010
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Web of Lies (Elemental Assassin, #2)]]> 6933152 Curiosity is definitely going to get me dead one of these days. Probably real soon.

I'm Gin Blanco.

You might know me as the Spider, the most feared assassin in the South. I’m retired now, but trouble still has a way of finding me. Like the other day when two punks tried to rob my popular barbecue joint, the Pork Pit. Then there was the barrage of gunfire on the restaurant. Only, for once, those kill shots weren’t aimed at me. They were meant for Violet Fox. Ever since I agreed to help Violet and her grandfather protect their property from an evil coalmining tycoon, I’m beginning to wonder if I’m really retired. So is Detective Donovan Caine. The only honest cop in Ashland is having a real hard time reconciling his attraction to me with his Boy Scout mentality. And I can barely keep my hands off his sexy body. What can I say? I’m a Stone elemental with a little Ice magic thrown in, but my heart isn’t made of solid rock. Luckily, Gin Blanco always gets her man . . . dead or alive.]]> 400 Jennifer Estep 143914799X Shera (Book Whispers) 4
The first part of Web of Lies was not as instantly mind blowing or as addicting as Spider's Bite. It's still infinitely better then a lot of other Urban Fantasy titles I've been reading. We've gotten to know the Spider and Web of Lies is showing how the death of Fletcher Lane and the decision to finally retire is affecting Gin. It's always a good sign when the actions of the previous book shape and evolve the next book, and the entire series.

Falling into the pages of Web of Lies was like coming home, and what's better is seeing someone as tough as Gin redefine herself. Realizing that even if the choices she's made in her life are horrible, maybe even the actions of a monster, she would still stand by them. Make those same choices. Part of Gin might be playing around with the idea of being a better person—even while she hides from her “fuzzy� feelings—she understands she will never be that type of woman and doesn't want to be. Which is why I had a hard time with how her emotions jumped so crazily ahead with her crush/lust of Donovan Caine.

It boggled me how a woman so patient and able to think things through. Went from the casual crush/lust she had for Caine in book 1, to this . . . love? Obsession? It was the weakest point of this book. Especially since Caine's actions cut Gin deep. More than Gin, or myself, would like. Especially since Caine's so called moral high ground made him more of a monster to me. No really. Not sure how anyone that read that mine scene—towards the end—between Caine and Gin could resist the urge to slit Caine's throat for Gin. That moment was excellent in showing that hiding behind so called morals and saying you're a good guy, doesn't mean jack.

Estep does a wonderful job playing in the gray areas here. Good guys may not really be good guys, and the monsters are sometimes the ones actually battling the evil. Don't get me wrong, the bad guys are bad. Down right evil, the best of the best for despicable mobsters, lawyers, corrupt miners, and such. Having a heroine like Gin is perfect because these villains need someone not afraid to shed blood and get dirty. Gin has morals and I think it's important that showing how Caine's high-and-mighty ones can be bad and Gin's morals mixed with her dark side make her the person that I'd want on my side. Especially after a scene with Mab Monroe and Gin. Holy cow.

Gin's a sexy strong lead, it’s only natural she has her own stable of man candy. Thankfully it's not all Caine. Yuck. Blessedly within six pages of Owen Grayson entering there was a light at the end of the tunnel! What a great character and I like that readers, and Gin, aren't 100% sure who he is. However, I know one thing. Owen is one heck of a love interest at this point. One that I hope will wash away the stain of Caine.

OK, now that I've over analyzed the romantic aspects of the book let's move on. (Honestly I swear the romance is not the focus!)

The cast of characters in Web of Lies is so awesome. Finn is such an smooth player, and a smart character. It's so sweet how Gin and him interact together. Proving that family is what you make of it. Not blood. Jo-Jo gets more page time here and it's wonderful how she's stepping into Fletcher's shoes as a guide/parental type figure. Sophie, the Goth dwarf, is another cool character that I was very excited to get more page time. These three characters make up Gin's family and it's wonderful to watch them all interact and care for Gin. Especially in helping her realize all of Fletcher and show her what the old man really meant by retirement.

New characters are introduced and I'm exited—hoping—to have them in future books going forward. What makes a series stronger and truly last is the connections that the lead has in that universe. The more connections there are the further it goes in creating a believable world. Which many non-fantasy fans always laugh at me for. It's a fantasy verse, it's not supposed to be real! But we the fans know better.

After a slower start than the last book things get back to good ol'Gin assassin fun. Our girl will always be the Spider even if she goes down a different path. Despite my instant dislike for Caine I do appreciate the “bad romance�. Showing that even an amazing assassin can fall prey to misconceptions about people and love. Web of Lies is an example of what good character building can do for a series. The first book introduced us to the Spider, however this book shows us how Gin is becoming more than that. The gritty realism is appreciated from the “romance�, to how dangerous being an assassin is, injuries, and shows all the ugly things that dark fantasy fans want. It's nice to have an anti-hero hero as dark and messed up as Gin. Besides, who doesn't love reading about amazing cooking along with planning assassinations and other assorted activities? Gin is definitely one of my book BFFs.

Sexual Content: Oh, quite the sex scene. Plenty of sexual humor, talk of rape, and some other dark/taboo sexual things mentioned. Gritty. (It’s not scary dark or anything. If you normally read darker reads it’s nothing that will explode your mind.)

4/5- Great! Really enjoyed it.

Originally reviewed at . ]]> 4.10 2010 Web of Lies (Elemental Assassin, #2)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at: 2014/10/27
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: urban-fantasy, vampire, elementals, 2010
review:
My love of the first book can not be emphasized enough. Which is probably why I was running scared for a while only able to bring myself to read the first book over and over again. See I have a problem. When I read an amazing first book, this fear takes over that the second book—and following—will never be able to hold a flame to the sheer awesomeness that was the first book. It's happened, and sadly so often that I have developed this reading phobia. Or what I sourly call the “First Book Wonder, Shitty Series Terror�. It exists. I swear, despite it's lame name.

The first part of Web of Lies was not as instantly mind blowing or as addicting as Spider's Bite. It's still infinitely better then a lot of other Urban Fantasy titles I've been reading. We've gotten to know the Spider and Web of Lies is showing how the death of Fletcher Lane and the decision to finally retire is affecting Gin. It's always a good sign when the actions of the previous book shape and evolve the next book, and the entire series.

Falling into the pages of Web of Lies was like coming home, and what's better is seeing someone as tough as Gin redefine herself. Realizing that even if the choices she's made in her life are horrible, maybe even the actions of a monster, she would still stand by them. Make those same choices. Part of Gin might be playing around with the idea of being a better person—even while she hides from her “fuzzy� feelings—she understands she will never be that type of woman and doesn't want to be. Which is why I had a hard time with how her emotions jumped so crazily ahead with her crush/lust of Donovan Caine.

It boggled me how a woman so patient and able to think things through. Went from the casual crush/lust she had for Caine in book 1, to this . . . love? Obsession? It was the weakest point of this book. Especially since Caine's actions cut Gin deep. More than Gin, or myself, would like. Especially since Caine's so called moral high ground made him more of a monster to me. No really. Not sure how anyone that read that mine scene—towards the end—between Caine and Gin could resist the urge to slit Caine's throat for Gin. That moment was excellent in showing that hiding behind so called morals and saying you're a good guy, doesn't mean jack.

Estep does a wonderful job playing in the gray areas here. Good guys may not really be good guys, and the monsters are sometimes the ones actually battling the evil. Don't get me wrong, the bad guys are bad. Down right evil, the best of the best for despicable mobsters, lawyers, corrupt miners, and such. Having a heroine like Gin is perfect because these villains need someone not afraid to shed blood and get dirty. Gin has morals and I think it's important that showing how Caine's high-and-mighty ones can be bad and Gin's morals mixed with her dark side make her the person that I'd want on my side. Especially after a scene with Mab Monroe and Gin. Holy cow.

Gin's a sexy strong lead, it’s only natural she has her own stable of man candy. Thankfully it's not all Caine. Yuck. Blessedly within six pages of Owen Grayson entering there was a light at the end of the tunnel! What a great character and I like that readers, and Gin, aren't 100% sure who he is. However, I know one thing. Owen is one heck of a love interest at this point. One that I hope will wash away the stain of Caine.

OK, now that I've over analyzed the romantic aspects of the book let's move on. (Honestly I swear the romance is not the focus!)

The cast of characters in Web of Lies is so awesome. Finn is such an smooth player, and a smart character. It's so sweet how Gin and him interact together. Proving that family is what you make of it. Not blood. Jo-Jo gets more page time here and it's wonderful how she's stepping into Fletcher's shoes as a guide/parental type figure. Sophie, the Goth dwarf, is another cool character that I was very excited to get more page time. These three characters make up Gin's family and it's wonderful to watch them all interact and care for Gin. Especially in helping her realize all of Fletcher and show her what the old man really meant by retirement.

New characters are introduced and I'm exited—hoping—to have them in future books going forward. What makes a series stronger and truly last is the connections that the lead has in that universe. The more connections there are the further it goes in creating a believable world. Which many non-fantasy fans always laugh at me for. It's a fantasy verse, it's not supposed to be real! But we the fans know better.

After a slower start than the last book things get back to good ol'Gin assassin fun. Our girl will always be the Spider even if she goes down a different path. Despite my instant dislike for Caine I do appreciate the “bad romance�. Showing that even an amazing assassin can fall prey to misconceptions about people and love. Web of Lies is an example of what good character building can do for a series. The first book introduced us to the Spider, however this book shows us how Gin is becoming more than that. The gritty realism is appreciated from the “romance�, to how dangerous being an assassin is, injuries, and shows all the ugly things that dark fantasy fans want. It's nice to have an anti-hero hero as dark and messed up as Gin. Besides, who doesn't love reading about amazing cooking along with planning assassinations and other assorted activities? Gin is definitely one of my book BFFs.

Sexual Content: Oh, quite the sex scene. Plenty of sexual humor, talk of rape, and some other dark/taboo sexual things mentioned. Gritty. (It’s not scary dark or anything. If you normally read darker reads it’s nothing that will explode your mind.)

4/5- Great! Really enjoyed it.

Originally reviewed at .
]]> <![CDATA[Spider's Bite (Elemental Assassin, #1)]]> 6611038 My name is Gin, and I kill people.

They call me the Spider. I'm the most feared assassin in the South � when I'm not busy at the Pork Pit cooking up the best barbecue in Ashland. As a Stone elemental, I can hear everything from the whispers of the gravel beneath my feet to the vibrations of the soaring Appalachian Mountains above me. My Ice magic also comes in handy for making the occasional knife. But I don't use my powers on the job unless I absolutely have to. Call it professional pride.

Now that a ruthless Air elemental has double-crossed me and killed my handler, I'm out for revenge. And I'll exterminate anyone who gets in my way � good or bad. I may look hot, but I'm still one of the bad guys. Which is why I'm in trouble, since irresistibly rugged Detective Donovan Caine has agreed to help me. The last thing this coldhearted killer needs when I'm battling a magic more powerful than my own is a sexy distraction... especially when Donovan wants me dead just as much as the enemy.]]> 395 Jennifer Estep 1439147973 Shera (Book Whispers) 5
With a series name like Elemental Assassin, I was expecting all kinds of awesomeness—and the book delivers. Even the cover is lethal!

Assassin characters have always interested me, if a book has a main character that's an assassin I'm there. Sadly enough, not to many authors have been able to pull off this character. The means to how they got to that point are generic, and the character is some how elevated as being a good person and their blood spilling ways justified.

Estep really makes Gin a believable killer. She didn't wake up one day and say, “Hey I think I'd like to kill people, that's a good career path!� A chain of tragic childhood events bring her to a point where she needs to survive, and things fall in to place for her to become an assassin. Gin has even carved out the best of life she can manage being an assassin. Her handler and son have become her family, and she tries to aspire to be a cook when she's not killing. Gin was a great character, she new what she was doing was wrong and even refers to herself as a monster at points in the book. Gin does keep to a moral code and tries to only go after “bad� people. She even does some “pro-bono� work for some abused people.

Following Gin on one of her kills at the beginning of the book is really fun (I know, I know we're killing people here). The work and planning that goes into each kill and all of the steps that need to be taken to remain anonymous. After all our girl is the Spider, one of the best killers out there and in high demand.

The love interest was such a great match. He's the only clean cop in the city, and after Gin killed his unsavory partner, he's out to bring the killer in. Gin has had her eye on him ever since, his purity or the fact that he's trying to find her draws her in. The events end up leaving the cop with only Gin to help him as the whole system is corrupt and all he can do to stay alive is trust in the honor of an assassin. Watching his growing attraction to Gin was definitely a highlight of this book for me. After all he's a saint, how can he be attracted to such an evil person. Someone who killed his partner. Maybe his world isn't black and white, maybe there are shades of gray.

The other side characters are very colorful and very lovable. Each one was a treat on the page and I loved getting more information on them. They all interacted in the world and made for great dialogue. The giant evil villain that is probably going to be spanning this series is fantastic. I love the fact that both evil villains in this book are female—women evil villains always seem to be more vicious and absolute fun!

My only complaint is the F-bomb is thrown out there a lot, like candy at a parade. Gin is a kick-booty, very witty character she can come across just as cool minus the swearing. Or maybe just a little less, as it is part of her character.

Bottom Line: It's great learning about our witty assassin as the story progresses. I completely fell for our killing lady and I am DIEING for more! (Every pun intended.) Need is the word that pops into mind about this book. I NEED to know where Gin is headed now that she's “retiring� and that cliffhanger ending. The love story is on the NEED to know what's going to happen next. Just give me the next book, I NEED it.

Sexual Content: Naughty thoughts are running through Gins mind about our good cop and there is a very steamy closet scene. Oh, and some heavy petting at the bar.

5/5- There are no excuses to miss this one!

Originally reviewed at . ]]> 3.88 2010 Spider's Bite (Elemental Assassin, #1)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2010
rating: 5
read at: 2010/01/01
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: urban-fantasy, witches-mages-druids-wizards-other, ebook, ebook-second, elementals, 2010
review:
Thoughts:

With a series name like Elemental Assassin, I was expecting all kinds of awesomeness—and the book delivers. Even the cover is lethal!

Assassin characters have always interested me, if a book has a main character that's an assassin I'm there. Sadly enough, not to many authors have been able to pull off this character. The means to how they got to that point are generic, and the character is some how elevated as being a good person and their blood spilling ways justified.

Estep really makes Gin a believable killer. She didn't wake up one day and say, “Hey I think I'd like to kill people, that's a good career path!� A chain of tragic childhood events bring her to a point where she needs to survive, and things fall in to place for her to become an assassin. Gin has even carved out the best of life she can manage being an assassin. Her handler and son have become her family, and she tries to aspire to be a cook when she's not killing. Gin was a great character, she new what she was doing was wrong and even refers to herself as a monster at points in the book. Gin does keep to a moral code and tries to only go after “bad� people. She even does some “pro-bono� work for some abused people.

Following Gin on one of her kills at the beginning of the book is really fun (I know, I know we're killing people here). The work and planning that goes into each kill and all of the steps that need to be taken to remain anonymous. After all our girl is the Spider, one of the best killers out there and in high demand.

The love interest was such a great match. He's the only clean cop in the city, and after Gin killed his unsavory partner, he's out to bring the killer in. Gin has had her eye on him ever since, his purity or the fact that he's trying to find her draws her in. The events end up leaving the cop with only Gin to help him as the whole system is corrupt and all he can do to stay alive is trust in the honor of an assassin. Watching his growing attraction to Gin was definitely a highlight of this book for me. After all he's a saint, how can he be attracted to such an evil person. Someone who killed his partner. Maybe his world isn't black and white, maybe there are shades of gray.

The other side characters are very colorful and very lovable. Each one was a treat on the page and I loved getting more information on them. They all interacted in the world and made for great dialogue. The giant evil villain that is probably going to be spanning this series is fantastic. I love the fact that both evil villains in this book are female—women evil villains always seem to be more vicious and absolute fun!

My only complaint is the F-bomb is thrown out there a lot, like candy at a parade. Gin is a kick-booty, very witty character she can come across just as cool minus the swearing. Or maybe just a little less, as it is part of her character.

Bottom Line: It's great learning about our witty assassin as the story progresses. I completely fell for our killing lady and I am DIEING for more! (Every pun intended.) Need is the word that pops into mind about this book. I NEED to know where Gin is headed now that she's “retiring� and that cliffhanger ending. The love story is on the NEED to know what's going to happen next. Just give me the next book, I NEED it.

Sexual Content: Naughty thoughts are running through Gins mind about our good cop and there is a very steamy closet scene. Oh, and some heavy petting at the bar.

5/5- There are no excuses to miss this one!

Originally reviewed at .
]]> <![CDATA[Micah's Magick (Elemental Witches, #4.5)]]> 7938684 Witch Fury.

This is a free, follow-up short story to the national bestselling Elemental Witches series (Witch Fire, Witch Blood, Witch Heart, Witch Fury). It gives a happily-ever-after storyline to Micah, a character beloved by the readers of the series.

CONTAINS SPOILERS. Do not read this short story before you read Witch Fury, the final book of the Elemental Witches series.]]> 20 Anya Bast Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.60 2011 Micah's Magick (Elemental Witches, #4.5)
author: Anya Bast
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, paranormal-romance, witches-mages-druids-wizards-other, anthologies-shortstories, elementals, 2009
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Cape Storm (Weather Warden, #8)]]> 5088467 305 Rachel Caine 045146284X Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.96 2009 Cape Storm (Weather Warden, #8)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, unique-magical-creatures, urban-fantasy, djinn-or-genie, elementals, 2009
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Witch Fury (Elemental Witches, #4)]]> 5519768 Nothing's worse than a warlock scorned...

Sarafina Connell is having the worst week of her life. It takes an even darker turn when an infamous playboy kidnaps her and reveals a world she never knew existed...

It's a world where magick is real, and where Sarafina is given a chance to join a secret cabal that is bent on gaining absolute power. They could use a woman like her—a witch with an untapped gift for creating fire. But she isn't about to get in league with the devil.

Rescued from her captors, Sarafina is introduced to a coven that is duty-bound to fight the forces of darkness. She's pleased that her savior is the imposingly seductive Theo—until the trust between them goes up in flames. However, as the war between good and evil is waged, Sarafina and Theo realize they have no choice but to unite in the battle for supremacy—that's getting hotter by the minute.]]> 294 Anya Bast 042522869X Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.08 2009 Witch Fury (Elemental Witches, #4)
author: Anya Bast
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, paranormal-romance, ebook-second, ebook, ebook-m, ebook-p, elementals, 2009
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Witch Heart (Elemental Witches, #3)]]> 3426092 Desire pulses within...

With a strange and powerful type of elemental magick, Claire isn't destined to be a demon's handmaiden. Yet this has been her fate since she was six, when her warlock mother brought her to Eudae. Now an adult, she's about to discover her true power—and how far others are willing to go to take it away.

As part of a Coven mission, Adam Tyrell rescues Claire from her enslavement—and finds himself immediately taken with the beautiful witch. But this charming playboy soon learns that it's easier to steal Claire from demons than win her heart, for her life as a servant has ravaged her spirit. But Adam's determination to protect her from the warlocks who want to harness her magick for evil begins to weaken Claire's resistance—and in the heat of danger they find themselves surrendering to the lure of their deepest desires.]]> 296 Anya Bast 0425225534 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.99 2009 Witch Heart (Elemental Witches, #3)
author: Anya Bast
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, ebook, paranormal-romance, ebook-m, ebook-p, elementals, 2009
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Gale Force (Weather Warden, #7)]]> 2295830
Unfortunately, Joanne's pre-marital bliss is ended by a devastating earthquake in Florida. And she can't ask David and his kind for assistance. Because the cause of the quake is unlike anything Joanne has ever encountered, and a power even the Djinn cannot perceive.]]> 306 Rachel Caine 0451462238 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.99 2008 Gale Force (Weather Warden, #7)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2008
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, unique-magical-creatures, djinn-or-genie, elementals, 2008
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Witch Blood (Elemental Witches, #2)]]> 1731486 Only lust burns hotter than revenge...

A water witch, Isabelle Novak has always led a chaotic, nomadic existence. But her life spins out of control when her sister—her only friend and emotional anchor—is killed by a demon. Driven by grief and a desire for revenge, she turns her back on the Coven and its sacred rede: Harm ye none...

When Isabelle first encounters Thomas Monahan, she's running on pure rage and sorrow, channeling her pain into power—and trying to freeze the life out of a warlock she holds responsible for her sister's death. Together, she and Thomas form an uneasy alliance to hunt and destroy a demon of tremendous power. As head of the Coven, earth witch Thomas must thwart Isabelle's dark impulses, but his very presence stirs deeper desires she never knew she had.]]> 275 Anya Bast 0425220435 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.89 2008 Witch Blood (Elemental Witches, #2)
author: Anya Bast
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2008
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, paranormal-romance, ebook-second, ebook, ebook-m, ebook-p, elementals, 2008
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Witch Fire (Elemental Witches, #1)]]> 793109 Passion is all consuming...

Mira Hoskins doesn't know she's a natural-born witch who possesses the rare—and powerful—element of air. And she never expects to find herself tied to a mahogany bed frame, captive of a man who aches to fulfill her every desire and let loose the magick that dwells inside her.

Heat emanates from elemental fire witch Jack McAllister. The Coven, a governing authority of witches, has sent him to protect Mira from a band of warlocks who drain witches of power...and life. Long ago, he saw Mira's parents murdered by this same dark magick. He'd like to quell his guilt and offer her everything she deserves. But she's the long-lost cousin of his boss—making seduction off-limits.

With Jack's strong guidance, Mira is luring forth her inner magick. But his sense of duty is quickly swelling into insatiable hunger. He was warned about the natural attraction between air and fire. Now he risks being consumed by the woman he shouldn't want—but can't stay away from.]]> 278 Anya Bast 0425216144 Shera (Book Whispers) 2 Genre: Paranormal Romance

Years ago I had picked up Witch Blood (book two in the Elemental Witches series), it turned into a great idea. After about halfway through I realized that the sex was too much. My preferences being a lot of plot with a side of hot sex. So what made me come back to this series? Bast came out with a new series, Dark Magick, that just blew me away. Her new series still had quite a bit of sex, but I also had a lot more paranormal titles under my belt.

The Elemental Witches really has a great idea behind it. Witches take up one element: earth, water, fire, or air. There are evil witches, warlocks, who use other witches as sacrifices to Demons to gain more powers. The Warlocks have pretty much wiped out the rare Air Witches, so when they find out about Mira they mean business. Mira doesn’t know she’s a Witch, her parents wanting her to live without the fear of being hunted. So not only is Mira unaware of her powers, and the danger she’s in, she has no idea that her parents were really killed by being sacrificed in a circle.

With this great idea behind it there’s clearly potential for a great plot, but it suffers from being tempered by the sex scenes. Every time the plot would pick up a sex scene would just pop up, and then the page count for those scenes just kept going. Steamy scenes would be drug out to the point where I would think, “And moving on from her third orgasm please.�

Mira and Jack had average chemistry to go with their average plot. Mira’s air magic and Jack’s fire magic are hormone makers when combined and unable to resist the magical pull they tumble into bed together. Then their struggle of “love� continues from there as they try to realize that they might have real un-magically induced feelings for each other. To be honest the need to jump in bed together because of some magic pull is just way over used. (Get over it PNR authors, get over it.) At least I got some really awesome banter out of it.

Witch Fire has a new idea to bring to the overwhelmed genre of Paranormal Romance. Lamentably all of that lovely idea is diluted by an average plot, overdone/lengthy sex scenes, and a so-so love story. Clearly Bast gains more style in her later Dark Magick series, here’s hoping she takes Elemental Witches to that level. (If you’re new to the Paranormal Genre or just thinking about trying it out, this is not the place to start.)

Sexual Content:
Vast amounts of page time for very detailed sex scenes. Did I mention really lengthy sex scenes?

Rating: 2/5- Average/disappointing, library check-out

Review originally posted at . ]]> 3.76 2007 Witch Fire (Elemental Witches, #1)
author: Anya Bast
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2007
rating: 2
read at: 2010/12/31
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: paranormal-romance, ebook-second, ebook, ebook-m, ebook-p, elementals, 2007
review:
Genre: Paranormal Romance

Years ago I had picked up Witch Blood (book two in the Elemental Witches series), it turned into a great idea. After about halfway through I realized that the sex was too much. My preferences being a lot of plot with a side of hot sex. So what made me come back to this series? Bast came out with a new series, Dark Magick, that just blew me away. Her new series still had quite a bit of sex, but I also had a lot more paranormal titles under my belt.

The Elemental Witches really has a great idea behind it. Witches take up one element: earth, water, fire, or air. There are evil witches, warlocks, who use other witches as sacrifices to Demons to gain more powers. The Warlocks have pretty much wiped out the rare Air Witches, so when they find out about Mira they mean business. Mira doesn’t know she’s a Witch, her parents wanting her to live without the fear of being hunted. So not only is Mira unaware of her powers, and the danger she’s in, she has no idea that her parents were really killed by being sacrificed in a circle.

With this great idea behind it there’s clearly potential for a great plot, but it suffers from being tempered by the sex scenes. Every time the plot would pick up a sex scene would just pop up, and then the page count for those scenes just kept going. Steamy scenes would be drug out to the point where I would think, “And moving on from her third orgasm please.�

Mira and Jack had average chemistry to go with their average plot. Mira’s air magic and Jack’s fire magic are hormone makers when combined and unable to resist the magical pull they tumble into bed together. Then their struggle of “love� continues from there as they try to realize that they might have real un-magically induced feelings for each other. To be honest the need to jump in bed together because of some magic pull is just way over used. (Get over it PNR authors, get over it.) At least I got some really awesome banter out of it.

Witch Fire has a new idea to bring to the overwhelmed genre of Paranormal Romance. Lamentably all of that lovely idea is diluted by an average plot, overdone/lengthy sex scenes, and a so-so love story. Clearly Bast gains more style in her later Dark Magick series, here’s hoping she takes Elemental Witches to that level. (If you’re new to the Paranormal Genre or just thinking about trying it out, this is not the place to start.)

Sexual Content:
Vast amounts of page time for very detailed sex scenes. Did I mention really lengthy sex scenes?

Rating: 2/5- Average/disappointing, library check-out

Review originally posted at .
]]> Thin Air (Weather Warden, #6) 28650 307 Rachel Caine 0451461630 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.96 2007 Thin Air (Weather Warden, #6)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2007
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, djinn-or-genie, unique-magical-creatures, elementals, 2007
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Firestorm (Weather Warden, #5)]]> 157572 292 Rachel Caine 0451461045 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.96 2006 Firestorm (Weather Warden, #5)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2006
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, djinn-or-genie, unique-magical-creatures, elementals, 2006
review:

]]> Windfall (Weather Warden, #4) 157569
After losing her job as a Weather Warden (those with the ability to manipulate the weather and avowed to protect humankind), Joanne is finding life in the "real world" not as enticing as she once thought. Her job as a cheesecake weather girl is humiliating, especially with a lecherous head meteorologist (deliciously named Marvelous Marvin McLarty) who delights in devising new ways to embarrass her on camera. But with her supernatural Djinn lover slowly dying and a recently divorced, shopping-addicted sister camping out on her sofa, Joanne's problems couldn't possibly get worse -- or could they? Throw in a highly suspicious detective bent on arresting Joanne on murder charges, a Djinn civil war, and a monster of an approaching hurricane --and suddenly Marvelous Marvin's antics don't seem so bad!

Wildly unpredictable weather -- and women! -- and an extraordinarily entertaining female protagonist with enough sexy panache and irreverent attitude to make Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake look like an octogenarian etiquette expert, Rachel Caine's Weather Warden saga (Chill Factor, Heat Stroke, et al.) is an absolute delight to read. You want guilty pleasures? Read these novels, which are a little romance, a little urban fantasy, and a whole lot of fun. Barometer not included.]]> 330 Rachel Caine 045146057X Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.94 2005 Windfall (Weather Warden, #4)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2005
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, unique-magical-creatures, djinn-or-genie, elementals, 2005
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Chill Factor (Weather Warden, #3)]]> 157568
In Rachel Caine's Ill Wind and Heat Stroke, Weather Warden extraordinaire Joanne Baldwin, who protects the human race from monster storms, was killed, reborn as a Djinn, and then restored to her original form. She's been through a lot -- and stuck her neck out many times -- to save innocent lives. Now she's rolling the dice to stop an infinitely powerful, deeply disturbed kid from destroying the world....

A teenager named Kevin has holed up in style at a Vegas hotel with the most powerful Djinn in the world, planning who knows what kind of mischief. The Wardens' senior leadership is dead, Djinn are disappearing, and a secret society wants to help Joanne destroy Kevin, even if doing so kills her (again). But everybody in Vegas has a game going, and Joanne has to learn the rules fast because the stakes have never been higher -- and all hell is about to break loose....]]> 337 Rachel Caine 0451460103 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.89 2005 Chill Factor (Weather Warden, #3)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2005
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: to-read, urban-fantasy, unique-magical-creatures, djinn-or-genie, elementals, 2005
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Heat Stroke (Weather Warden, #2)]]> 157526
In Rachel Caine's tempestuous follow-up to Ill Wind--forecast as "a fun read" by bestselling author Jim Butcher--the Wardens Association still protects the human race from extermination by climatic extremes, when they're not turning on their own....

Accused of murder, Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin was chased across the country--and killed--by a team charged with hunting down rogue Wardens.

Five days later, Joanne had a lovely funeral and was posthumously cleared of all charges. Her human life was over, but she had been reborn into Djinnhood. Now, until she masters her enhanced powers, Joanne must try to avoid being "claimed" by a human. But when a hazard that only a Djinn could sense infiltrates Earth's atmosphere, Joanne must somehow convince someone to do something about it--or the forecast will be deadly.

So who said being all-powerful was going to be easy?]]> 335 Rachel Caine 0451459849 Shera (Book Whispers) 3 3.84 2004 Heat Stroke (Weather Warden, #2)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: urban-fantasy, djinn-or-genie, unique-magical-creatures, elementals, 2004
review:

]]> Ill Wind (Weather Warden, #1) 86451 337 Rachel Caine 0451459520 Shera (Book Whispers) 4 3.74 2003 Ill Wind (Weather Warden, #1)
author: Rachel Caine
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2020/01/13
shelves: urban-fantasy, unique-magical-creatures, djinn-or-genie, elementals, 2003
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Black Widow (Elemental Assassin, #12)]]> 18745163 There’s nothing worse than a cruel, cunning enemy with time to kill—and my murder to plan.

With wicked Fire elemental Mab Monroe long gone, you’d think I could finally catch a break. But someone’s always trying to take me down, either as Gin Blanco or my assassin alter-ago. Now along comes the Spider’s new arch-nemesis, the mysteriously named M. M. Monroe, who is gleefully working overtime to trap me in a sticky web of deceit.

The thing is, I’m not the only target. I can see through the tangled threads enough to know that every bit of bad luck my friends have been having lately is no accident—and that each unfortunate “coincidence� is just one more arrow drawing ever closer to hitting the real bulls-eye. Though new to Ashland, this M. M. Monroe is no stranger to irony, trying to get me, an assassin, framed for murder. Yet, as my enemy’s master plan is slowly revealed, I have a sinking feeling that it will take more than my powerful Ice and Stone magic to stop my whole life from going up in flames.]]> 357 Jennifer Estep 1476774544 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.23 2014 Black Widow (Elemental Assassin, #12)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/01/12
shelves: to-read, 2014, urban-fantasy, ebook, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Failed Future (Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles, #3)]]> 45361401 When worlds collide, and things are rarely what they seem, there may be no one Vi can trust.

Having forsaken her crown for a chance to save her family, and the world, Vi Solaris washes up on the shores of Meru. She's wounded and barely alive. But Vi's fight for survival is only just beginning.

As a princess in a foreign land, everyone is after her.

The pirate queen Adela wants to sell her to the evil elfin'ra. The Twilight King wants to use her to settle an old score. And, perhaps most dangerous, is the scheming Lord of the Faithful who sees her as an opportunity to further consolidate his power.

The only path for Vi is forward. But she doesn't yet know if she's running toward salvation... or a brutal end to everything she loves.]]> 365 Elise Kova 1949694100 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.16 2019 Failed Future (Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles, #3)
author: Elise Kova
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2019/10/24
shelves: to-read, 2019, ebook, new-adult, ya-epic-high-fantasy, ya-fantasy, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Vortex Visions (Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles, #1)]]> 41834793
Vi Solaris is the heir to an Empire she’s barely seen. Her parents sacrificed a life with her to quell a rebellion and secure peace with a political alliance. Now, three years past when her wardship should’ve ended, Vi will do anything to be reunited with her family.

The Empire is faltering beneath the burden of political infighting and a deadly plague. Yet, Vi can’t help but wonder if her inability to control her magic is the true reason her parents haven’t brought her home. Suspicion becomes reality when she unleashes powers she’s not supposed to have.

Powers that might well cost her the throne.

As Vi fights to get her magic under control, a mysterious stranger appears from across the world. He holds the keys to unlocking her full potential, but the knowledge has an unspeakable price � some truths, once seen, cannot be ignored.

All eyes are on her and Vi must make the hardest choice of her life: Play by the rules and claim her throne. Or, break them and save the world.]]> 374 Elise Kova 1949694046 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.97 2019 Vortex Visions (Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles, #1)
author: Elise Kova
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2019/10/24
shelves: to-read, 2019, ebook, new-adult, ya-epic-high-fantasy, ya-fantasy, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Scorch Dragons (Elementals, #2)]]> 26839778 The struggle for power heats up in book two of this heart-stopping adventure series about siblings with magical shapeshifter powers, from New York Times bestselling author Amie Kaufman.

After the fateful battle between the ice wolves and the scorch dragons, Anders and his twin sister, Rayna, have been reunited. But there’s no time to celebrate.

The temperature all over Vallen is starting to drop. And Anders quickly learns that the wolves have stolen a weather-altering artifact called the Snowstone, and every dragon, including Rayna, is now in danger. Desperate to broker peace, Anders enlists the help of a few new flame-breathing friends to stop the wolves� next plan of attack.

Together, these former rivals must go on a dangerous quest to find the scattered pieces of the Sun Scepter, the only artifact that can counteract the Snowstone. Because if either device goes unchecked, all hope for a truce will be lost.]]> 368 Amie Kaufman Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.15 2019 Scorch Dragons (Elementals, #2)
author: Amie Kaufman
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2019/05/06
shelves: to-read, 2019, dragons, elementals, werewolves, ya-fantasy, ya-paranormal-uf, ebook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Blood of the Hydra (Elementals #2)]]> 26876374 A demigod who can kill with a touch. It's an ability that must be kept secret, even from those trusted most.

Finding out that she was a witch was strange enough, but now Nicole must face the realization that she has the rare power to kill with just a touch. No one can know her secret -- not even Blake, who she's had undeniable chemistry with since first moving to town.

Now Nicole, Blake, and the three others with elemental powers must stop a series of monsters that they previously believed to be dead from rising once again and destroying the mortal world. The creatures they face on this journey will be more dangerous than anything they've encountered yet. Will they all survive the quest? And how long will it be until Nicole is forced to use her ability to kill in front of everyone, revealing the true darkness of her powers?

Find out in The Blood of the Hydra, and join the Elementals on their quest to save the world -- or die trying.]]> Michelle Madow 1311296786 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.87 2016 The Blood of the Hydra (Elementals #2)
author: Michelle Madow
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2019/01/31
shelves: 2016, future-purchases, future-purchases-2016, ya-paranormal-uf, elementals, wnr-or-dnf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Jeweled Fire (Elemental Blessings, #3)]]> 21528313 The national bestselling author of Troubled Waters and Royal Airs returns to her Elemental Blessings series with the story of a young princess who will need more than blessings to survive in a kingdom where everyone will do whatever it takes to claim the throne�

As one of the four princesses of Welce, Corene always thought she might one day become queen. Only circumstances changed, leaving fiery Corene with nothing to show for a life spent playing the game of court intrigue—until a chance arises to become the ruler of a nearby country.

After stowing away on a ship bound for Malinqua with her loyal bodyguard, Foley, Corene must try to win the throne by making a play to marry one of the empress’s three nephews. But Corene is not the only foreign princess in search of a crown.

Unaccustomed to being anyone’s friend, Corene is surprised to find companionship among her fellow competitors. But behind Malinqua’s beautiful facade lie many secrets.

The visiting princesses are more hostages than guests. And as the deadly nature of the court is revealed, Corene must rely on both her new allies and Foley’s unwavering protection—for the game she has entered is far more perilous than she ever imagined…]]> 403 Sharon Shinn 0425277054 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.91 2015 Jeweled Fire (Elemental Blessings, #3)
author: Sharon Shinn
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/12/10
shelves: to-read, 2015, epic-and-high-fantasy, ya-fantasy, elementals, ebook
review:

]]> Ice Wolves (Elementals, #1) 35068585 ice wolves and scorch dragons are sworn enemies who live deeply separate lives.

So when twelve-year-old orphan Anders takes one elemental form and his twin sister, Rayna, takes another, he wonders whether they are even related. Still, whether or not they’re family, Rayna is Anders’s only true friend. She’s nothing like the brutal, cruel dragons who claimed her as one of their own and stole her away.

In order to rescue her, Anders must enlist at the foreboding Ulfar Academy, a school for young wolves that values loyalty to the pack above all else. But for Anders, loyalty is more complicated than obedience, and friendship is the most powerful shapeshifting force of all.]]> 348 Amie Kaufman 0062458000 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.99 2018 Ice Wolves (Elementals, #1)
author: Amie Kaufman
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/05/21
shelves: to-read, 2018, ya-paranormal-uf, ya-fantasy, werewolves, elementals, dragons, ebook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Snared (Elemental Assassin, #16)]]> 30826826
Irony 101—The Spider herself snared in someone else’s web�

Another week, another few clues trickling in about the Circle, the mysterious group that supposedly runs the city’s underworld. Gathering intel on my hidden enemies is a painstaking process, but a more immediate mystery has popped up on my radar: a missing girl.

My search for the girl begins on the mean streets of Ashland, but with all the killers and crooks in this city, I’m not holding out much hope that she’s still alive.

A series of clues leads me down an increasingly dark, dangerous path, and I realize that the missing girl is really just the first thread in this web of evil. As an assassin, I’m used to facing down the worst of the worst, but nothing prepares me for this new, terrifying enemy—one who strikes from the shadows and is determined to make me the next victim.]]> 385 Jennifer Estep Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.21 2017 Snared (Elemental Assassin, #16)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2017/05/30
shelves: to-read, 2017, urban-fantasy, elementals, ebook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Prophecy of Shadows (Elementals, #1)]]> 27779802
Girls who get close to Blake wind up hurt. His girlfriend Danielle will do anything to keep them away, even if she must resort to using dark magic. But the chemistry between Blake and Nicole is undeniable, and despite wanting to protect Nicole from Danielle’s wrath, he finds it impossible to keep his distance.

When the Olympian Comet shoots through the sky for the first time in three thousand years, Nicole, Blake, Danielle, and two others in their homeroom are gifted with mysterious powers. But the comet has another effect—it opens the portal to the prison world that has contained the Titans for centuries. After an ancient monster escapes and attacks Nicole and Blake, it’s up to them and the others to follow the clues from a cryptic prophecy so that they can save their town � and possibly the world.]]> Michelle Madow 0692573666 Shera (Book Whispers) 1 **Review copy provided through Netgalley for an honest review.**

Hmmmmm. Honestly the only reason I went back and finished this book was because I was so excited about it and requested the ARC. Nothing bums me out more than when a book I requested doesn't work out for me. About 17% of the way in I had to take a break. The reasons were that it was generic and boring. So upon picking it up after quite a bit of time has passed and I'm in a different frame of mind. Enough of a new frame of mind that I did finish the whole book, so that now I can elaborate as to why I found it generic and boring.

First off after you've read a certain amount of books you pick up on things. Plots and stories ideas, so on. At some point you just can't stand reading the same story again featuring (hopefully at least) new character names and a slight spin. Or no spin. The world of paranormal YA has been explored and The Prophecy of Shadows had nothing new to bring to it. Especially as everyone has done Greek mythology. When another YA PR book decides to “borrow� it either falls flat or at least makes its character stand out.

However, even the characters were borrowed. They were never developed enough to not be hallow shells. I feel like this book was a check list of things a title like this needs. The most exciting parts about it where some of the jokes made about Harry Potter.

Don't even get me started on the mysterious boy/love interest. I guess "Girls who get close to Blake wind up hurt." from the synopsis. Not to mention this winner: "His girlfriend Danielle will do anything to keep them away, even if she must resort to using dark magic."

I'm not sure if I really paid attention to the synopsis.

What is with YA titles where the girls land the hottest guy who happens to have a horrible girlfriend that she steals him from. First off, why are they dating that horrible girl. (Yeah there's always some lame excuse. Why can't they admit it's probably not for hand holding?) Secondly, don't covet and date him. Coveting another's man is bad, secondly um he's dating a horrible person. Whom you stole him from.

World building, plot, and characters weren't even really attempted. If anything this was just a lazy attempt to try and cash out on the genre. You know if you write it the fans will come. Yeah, there are plenty of readers who probably won't recognize or mind that isn't trying. Which works fine. I however have no interest in seeing where this uninspired series is going to go.

Content Warning: Wow, I can't remember. I think there may have been mild sexual humor. Pretty sure this is a safe read all around.

1/5- I couldn't finish it or wish I hadn't.

Originally reviewed at .
]]> 3.38 2016 The Prophecy of Shadows (Elementals, #1)
author: Michelle Madow
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.38
book published: 2016
rating: 1
read at: 2016/10/12
date added: 2016/10/24
shelves: 2016, future-purchases, future-purchases-2016, ya-paranormal-uf, witches-mages-druids-wizards-other, arc-netgalley, elementals
review:
**Review copy provided through Netgalley for an honest review.**

Hmmmmm. Honestly the only reason I went back and finished this book was because I was so excited about it and requested the ARC. Nothing bums me out more than when a book I requested doesn't work out for me. About 17% of the way in I had to take a break. The reasons were that it was generic and boring. So upon picking it up after quite a bit of time has passed and I'm in a different frame of mind. Enough of a new frame of mind that I did finish the whole book, so that now I can elaborate as to why I found it generic and boring.

First off after you've read a certain amount of books you pick up on things. Plots and stories ideas, so on. At some point you just can't stand reading the same story again featuring (hopefully at least) new character names and a slight spin. Or no spin. The world of paranormal YA has been explored and The Prophecy of Shadows had nothing new to bring to it. Especially as everyone has done Greek mythology. When another YA PR book decides to “borrow� it either falls flat or at least makes its character stand out.

However, even the characters were borrowed. They were never developed enough to not be hallow shells. I feel like this book was a check list of things a title like this needs. The most exciting parts about it where some of the jokes made about Harry Potter.

Don't even get me started on the mysterious boy/love interest. I guess "Girls who get close to Blake wind up hurt." from the synopsis. Not to mention this winner: "His girlfriend Danielle will do anything to keep them away, even if she must resort to using dark magic."

I'm not sure if I really paid attention to the synopsis.

What is with YA titles where the girls land the hottest guy who happens to have a horrible girlfriend that she steals him from. First off, why are they dating that horrible girl. (Yeah there's always some lame excuse. Why can't they admit it's probably not for hand holding?) Secondly, don't covet and date him. Coveting another's man is bad, secondly um he's dating a horrible person. Whom you stole him from.

World building, plot, and characters weren't even really attempted. If anything this was just a lazy attempt to try and cash out on the genre. You know if you write it the fans will come. Yeah, there are plenty of readers who probably won't recognize or mind that isn't trying. Which works fine. I however have no interest in seeing where this uninspired series is going to go.

Content Warning: Wow, I can't remember. I think there may have been mild sexual humor. Pretty sure this is a safe read all around.

1/5- I couldn't finish it or wish I hadn't.

Originally reviewed at .

]]> <![CDATA[Unraveled (Elemental Assassin, #15)]]> 27406805
What could go wrong when you’re trying to unravel a decades-old conspiracy?

As the current queen of the Ashland underworld, you would think that I, Gin Blanco, would know all about some secret society controlling things from behind the scenes.

I might be the Spider, the city’s most fearsome assassin, but all my Ice and Stone elemental magic hasn’t done me a lick of good in learning more about “the Circle�. Despite my continued investigations, the trail’s gone as cold as the coming winter.

So when Finnegan Lane, my foster brother, gets word of a surprising inheritance, we figure why not skip town for someplace less dangerous for a few days? That place: Bullet Pointe, a fancy hotel resort complex plus Old West theme park that Finn now owns lock, stock, and barrel.

At first, all the struttin� cowboys and sassy saloon girls are just hokey fun. But add in some shady coincidences and Circle assassins lurking all around, and vacationing becomes wilder—and deadlier—than any of us expected.

Good thing this assassin brought plenty of knives to the gunfight …]]> 373 Jennifer Estep 1501142216 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.15 2016 Unraveled (Elemental Assassin, #15)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/10/18
shelves: to-read, 2016, urban-fantasy, elementals, ebook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Unquiet Land (Elemental Blessings, #4)]]> 28953458 From the national bestselling author of Jeweled Fire and Royal Airs comes the latest novel in the Elemental Blessings series.

Leah Frothen has returned home. But she can scarcely catch her breath before she is summoned by regent Darien Serlast, the man who made her a spy. Leah is reluctant to take on a new assignment, but Darien has dangled the perfect lure to draw her in�

Leah finds she enjoys the challenges of opening a shop catering to foreign visitors, especially since it affords her the opportunity to get to know Mally, the child she abandoned five years ago.

But when the regent asks her to spy on ambassadors from a visiting nation, Leah soon learns that everyone—her regent, her lover, and even her daughter—have secrets that could save the nation, but might very well break her heart.]]> 386 Sharon Shinn 0425277038 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 3.98 2016 Unquiet Land (Elemental Blessings, #4)
author: Sharon Shinn
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/10/06
shelves: to-read, 2016, future-purchases, future-purchases-2016, ya-epic-high-fantasy, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Bitter Bite (Elemental Assassin, #14)]]> 25814230
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 Jennifer Estep 1501111272 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.19 2016 Bitter Bite (Elemental Assassin, #14)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/08/13
shelves: to-read, 2016, urban-fantasy, elementals, ebook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Warden (Elemental Paladins, #1)]]> 27863665
Sounds like a pretty good deal, right?

The only problem is, Max has no idea what a warden is let alone a paladin. She's been alone her whole life, causing natural disasters and bar fights everywhere she goes. Strange creatures stalk her every step, and she's fairly certain she's a chocolate junkie. Meeting a bunch of smokin' hot knights seems too good to be true but she's just desperate enough to believe them. After all, what harm could there be in a few days of rest and relaxation in a beautiful house by the beach, surrounded by a harem of muscle-bound warriors?

But there's one thing she didn't count on ... Ryker.

The unofficial leader of the group of outcast paladins, Ryker is a perpetually premenstrual, growly, broody, insensitive jerk with no brain-to-mouth filter. He also happens to be the sexiest, hottest, most sensual man Max has ever had the pleasure of ogling. Six foot four of solid muscle, deep chocolate brown eyes, shaggy black hair and a rugged scar down one side of his face, he was Max's every fantasy come to life. But the ancient knight is scarred with a tragic past and believes his soul is stained with dishonour. Coupled with Max's own stubbornness and trust issues, she figures the chance of getting a happy ending is pretty slim.

But fate can be a fickle wench, as Max and Ryker soon discover in Warden, Elemental Paladins: Book One.]]> 286 Montana Ash Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.18 2020 Warden (Elemental Paladins, #1)
author: Montana Ash
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2020
rating: 0
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date added: 2016/08/10
shelves: to-read, 2015, future-purchases, future-purchases-2015, paranormal-romance, elementals
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Immortal Heights (The Elemental Trilogy, #3)]]> 17410991
However, getting to the Bane means accomplishing the impossible—finding a way to infiltrate his crypt in the deepest recesses of the most ferociously guarded fortress in Atlantis. And everything is only made more difficult when new prophecies come to light, foretelling a doomed effort�

Iolanthe and Titus will put their love and their lives on the line. But will it be enough?

With The Immortal Heights, Sherry Thomas brings the acclaimed Elemental Trilogy to its breathtaking conclusion.]]> 436 Sherry Thomas 0062207350 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.08 2015 The Immortal Heights (The Elemental Trilogy, #3)
author: Sherry Thomas
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/08/10
shelves: to-read, 2015, ya-fantasy, ebook, elementals
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]]> <![CDATA[Spider's Trap (Elemental Assassin, #13)]]> 23492543 Keep your friends close but your enemies within stabbing distance.

One important lesson I’ve learned in the assassination business is that to be the best you have to roll with the punches. Now that I’m queen of Ashland’s underworld—by default, not by choice—a lot more punches are being thrown my way. But I suppose that’s the price of victory for taking down some of the underworld’s top dogs. Good thing I have my Ice and Stone magic to help me survive my volatile new position. Just when I think things are finally settling down, someone tries to murder me during a hush-hush underworld meeting. But the real surprise is how strangely familiar my shadowy assailant seems to be.

My job is to maintain order among killers, crooks, and thieves, and soon I’m embroiled in a bloody game where the ability to keep secrets could be the greatest superpower of all. My enemies have all sharpened their knives and laid their traps, waiting for me to fall. But this Spider weaves her own webs of death…]]> 372 Jennifer Estep 1501105175 Shera (Book Whispers) 0 4.12 2015 Spider's Trap (Elemental Assassin, #13)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Shera (Book Whispers)
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/08/10
shelves: to-read, 2015, urban-fantasy, ebook, elementals
review:

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