What do you think?
Rate this book
Witch, Warlock and Vampire #3
Witchful Thinking (Underworld, #3)
Jolie thinks she’s seen it all, but life continues to spring surprises. The latest shocker? She’s just been crowned queen of the underworld. Jolie may possess a rare gift for reanimating the dead, but she doesn’t know the first thing about governing disparate factions of supernatural creatures. She can barely maintain order in her own chaotic personal life, which is heading into a romantic tailspin.
First there’s sexy warlock Rand, the love of her life, from whom Jolie is hiding a devastating secret. Then there’s Sinjin, a darkly seductive vampire and Jolie’s sworn protector—though others suspect he harbors ulterior motives. As the two polar opposite yet magnetic men vie for Jolie’s affection, she must keep her wits about her to balance affairs of state and affairs of her heart. Overwhelmed, under pressure, and longing for love, Jolie decides it’s time to take charge—and show everyone that this queen won’t take jack.
First there’s sexy warlock Rand, the love of her life, from whom Jolie is hiding a devastating secret. Then there’s Sinjin, a darkly seductive vampire and Jolie’s sworn protector—though others suspect he harbors ulterior motives. As the two polar opposite yet magnetic men vie for Jolie’s affection, she must keep her wits about her to balance affairs of state and affairs of her heart. Overwhelmed, under pressure, and longing for love, Jolie decides it’s time to take charge—and show everyone that this queen won’t take jack.
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
376 people are currently reading
2438 people want to read
About the author
H.P. Mallory
351 books2,800 followersI’m a huge fan of anything paranormal and I always have been. I get super excited whenever they have those Twilight Zone Marathon days and anything ghost or vampire related will always attract my attention.
My interests are varied but aside from writing, I’m most excited about traveling. I’m extremely fortunate to have been able to live in England and Scotland, both places really having a profound effect on my books.
Thanks for checking out my books and I hope you enjoy them! Happy Haunting!
H.P.
My interests are varied but aside from writing, I’m most excited about traveling. I’m extremely fortunate to have been able to live in England and Scotland, both places really having a profound effect on my books.
Thanks for checking out my books and I hope you enjoy them! Happy Haunting!
H.P.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 436 reviews
February 6, 2012
I got to the end of this one and said "Huh?" I soldiered through 312 repetitious pages of Jolie dithering and second guessing and third guessing herself only to reach a very inconclusive conclusion. This one had so many possibilities. The setting was great. The characters were varied and represented a wide-variety of paranormal species. The potential for a romantic triangle was there. But, ultimately, this one left me feeling flat.
Part of the problem for me was the first person narration by Jolie. I just couldn't empathize with her indecisiveness. She made so many bad decisions that I just hung in there to see if she would ever manage to straighten out her very complicated life. She was so self-deprecating that I couldn't understand why one hot man...err, warlock...would ever fall for her let alone why two would.
While Rand and Sinjin were both pretty, neither was my idea of a romantic hero. Rand was portrayed as over-analytical. So much so that he came across as wishy-washy and constantly blowing hot and cold. Sinjin, the beautiful vampire, was almost completely opaque to us. Jolie persisted in seeing him through rose-colored glasses and refused to accept what he actually said about his motivations. Why he wanted her for more than sex and lunch was completely beyond me. Maybe he didn't .... but the ending?
Ultimately, I couldn't figure out what the story was about other than Jolie's complicated relationships with Rand and Sinjin. There was no other conflict in this one. I did have some hopes the Mercedes - the prophetess - had some sort of agenda but nothing ever happened. All she did was act as a puppet master railroading Jolie into becoming the Queen of the Underworld which put her more into conflict with republican Rand but seemed to have no other effect.
All in all, I can't recommend this story. I got to the last chapter and just about threw the book across the room because it looked like it was going to be an "it was all a dream" ending only to throw in a plot twist that was absolutely unexpected and mind-boggling. It looks like more books are planned for this series but I will never know how it all works out, I give up.
Part of the problem for me was the first person narration by Jolie. I just couldn't empathize with her indecisiveness. She made so many bad decisions that I just hung in there to see if she would ever manage to straighten out her very complicated life. She was so self-deprecating that I couldn't understand why one hot man...err, warlock...would ever fall for her let alone why two would.
While Rand and Sinjin were both pretty, neither was my idea of a romantic hero. Rand was portrayed as over-analytical. So much so that he came across as wishy-washy and constantly blowing hot and cold. Sinjin, the beautiful vampire, was almost completely opaque to us. Jolie persisted in seeing him through rose-colored glasses and refused to accept what he actually said about his motivations. Why he wanted her for more than sex and lunch was completely beyond me. Maybe he didn't .... but the ending?
Ultimately, I couldn't figure out what the story was about other than Jolie's complicated relationships with Rand and Sinjin. There was no other conflict in this one. I did have some hopes the Mercedes - the prophetess - had some sort of agenda but nothing ever happened. All she did was act as a puppet master railroading Jolie into becoming the Queen of the Underworld which put her more into conflict with republican Rand but seemed to have no other effect.
All in all, I can't recommend this story. I got to the last chapter and just about threw the book across the room because it looked like it was going to be an "it was all a dream" ending only to throw in a plot twist that was absolutely unexpected and mind-boggling. It looks like more books are planned for this series but I will never know how it all works out, I give up.
September 3, 2012
So I read the first 2 books thinking: wow this is actually pretty good. Im enjoying this. Lets see what happens next! (You know, all those really happy emotions you get when you are finally going to be able to read the next volume of a good series?).
What I wasn't expecting? To be disappointed . Because, seriously, this book was frustrating to say the least.
First of all, I feel like I was reading the 2nd book all over again - the prologue being the first few pages of the 2nd novel, and then recaps the whole way through of what happened in the 2nd novel. Like COME ON - I remember exactly what happened in 1878 as much as everyone else because.....I read the novel and its approximately the ONLY sex scene we get. The author obviously didn't really know where she wanted to go with her story - it just felt like she was stalling the whole way through.
Secondly, Rand is just....please stop with him. His character is just terrible. I don't know what kind of masochist society HP Mallory wanted us to think Jolie Wilkins was stuck in. Rand basically plays around with her emotions and every time she crawls back to him and never really gets pissed off at him for being such a complete, and utter JERK. Yes, he has a "bonding" history. Yes, we know that its Jolie so blah blah blah get over it. And what is this bonding crap? I want to be able to believe that she will end up with Sinjin (who - granted - isn't much better then Rand) and not be forever linked to Rand the jerk.
Thirdly, Jolie is kind of despicable. I already mentioned the whole Rand puppy dog kicking issue but there is more to that. She just wallows way too much. And we know that shes going to have a small thing with Sinjin and we know that shes going to break his heart - way to go Jolie! You argue that Rand keeps toying with your feelings and then you go and play with Sinjin's feelings. Totally normal. Just because hes a vampire who hides his inner feelings.
Anyways, it took me a lot longer to go through this novel compared to the first 2 ones which were read in a record time. I actually was so frustrated I just turned the pages on the 'already seen' paragraphs and refused to reread them.
What I wasn't expecting? To be disappointed . Because, seriously, this book was frustrating to say the least.
First of all, I feel like I was reading the 2nd book all over again - the prologue being the first few pages of the 2nd novel, and then recaps the whole way through of what happened in the 2nd novel. Like COME ON - I remember exactly what happened in 1878 as much as everyone else because.....I read the novel and its approximately the ONLY sex scene we get. The author obviously didn't really know where she wanted to go with her story - it just felt like she was stalling the whole way through.
Secondly, Rand is just....please stop with him. His character is just terrible. I don't know what kind of masochist society HP Mallory wanted us to think Jolie Wilkins was stuck in. Rand basically plays around with her emotions and every time she crawls back to him and never really gets pissed off at him for being such a complete, and utter JERK. Yes, he has a "bonding" history. Yes, we know that its Jolie so blah blah blah get over it. And what is this bonding crap? I want to be able to believe that she will end up with Sinjin (who - granted - isn't much better then Rand) and not be forever linked to Rand the jerk.
Thirdly, Jolie is kind of despicable. I already mentioned the whole Rand puppy dog kicking issue but there is more to that. She just wallows way too much. And we know that shes going to have a small thing with Sinjin and we know that shes going to break his heart - way to go Jolie! You argue that Rand keeps toying with your feelings and then you go and play with Sinjin's feelings. Totally normal. Just because hes a vampire who hides his inner feelings.
Anyways, it took me a lot longer to go through this novel compared to the first 2 ones which were read in a record time. I actually was so frustrated I just turned the pages on the 'already seen' paragraphs and refused to reread them.
June 25, 2012
This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.com.
Expected Release Date: February 28, 2012
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
Imprint: Bantam
Author’s Website: http://hpmallory.com/
My Source for This Book: Netgalley
Part of a Series: Yes, Book 3, Jolie Wilkins Series
Series Best Read In Order: Yes
Steam Level: Steamy
I should start off this review by saying that while I loved the first book in the series, Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble, I never got the chance to read the second book in the series. As such, I came into this one not really knowing what to expect.
What I got was a lot less humor than I'd remembered, and a lot more steam. Now, I'm never one to turn down steam, but there was so much back and forth on Jolie's part, and paired with that mindblowing ending, I'm left unsure of my final feelings.
I'm not a very big fan of love triangles to begin with, and there was a big emphasis on Jolie's attraction to both Rand and Sinjin.
In the end, I was left a bit frustrated. I would blame it on the fact that I didn't read the second story, but I really felt as though the author did a wonderful job of bringing the reader up to speed, so I don't really think that's it -- instead, I really think it's the love triangle. A decision has been made -- that should be the end of it in my mind, but instead, Jolie and her love interests all keep flip-flopping on what they seem to want, and in the end, it was frustrating. I never thought I'd ever say this, but I think there was too much emphasis on the romance and not quite enough development of the overall story arc. And now, the next book in the series... well.. that could be a spoiler, but suffice it to say the setup for the next book in the series doesn't leave me with a lot of confidence that it will be anything but frustrating to the max.
3/5 Stars
Expected Release Date: February 28, 2012
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
Imprint: Bantam
Author’s Website: http://hpmallory.com/
My Source for This Book: Netgalley
Part of a Series: Yes, Book 3, Jolie Wilkins Series
Series Best Read In Order: Yes
Steam Level: Steamy
I should start off this review by saying that while I loved the first book in the series, Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble, I never got the chance to read the second book in the series. As such, I came into this one not really knowing what to expect.
What I got was a lot less humor than I'd remembered, and a lot more steam. Now, I'm never one to turn down steam, but there was so much back and forth on Jolie's part, and paired with that mindblowing ending, I'm left unsure of my final feelings.
I'm not a very big fan of love triangles to begin with, and there was a big emphasis on Jolie's attraction to both Rand and Sinjin.
In the end, I was left a bit frustrated. I would blame it on the fact that I didn't read the second story, but I really felt as though the author did a wonderful job of bringing the reader up to speed, so I don't really think that's it -- instead, I really think it's the love triangle. A decision has been made -- that should be the end of it in my mind, but instead, Jolie and her love interests all keep flip-flopping on what they seem to want, and in the end, it was frustrating. I never thought I'd ever say this, but I think there was too much emphasis on the romance and not quite enough development of the overall story arc. And now, the next book in the series... well.. that could be a spoiler, but suffice it to say the setup for the next book in the series doesn't leave me with a lot of confidence that it will be anything but frustrating to the max.
3/5 Stars
September 23, 2016
Witchful Thinking, although not my favorite of the series, was quite a wonderful addition to the series and added something very unique to the series. Our heroine of the series is forced to face a new challenge that will turn her life upside down as well as her love affair with Rand and Sinjin. Jolie Wilkins life has changed dramatically, she has now become the queen of the underworld. She has a new magical gift that is flaring to life, and Jolie has to learn how to adjust to her new change in circumstances and learn the meaning of diplomacy. At the same time she is keeping a dreadful secret from Rand, and trying to determine which man her heart truly lies with.
I normally don't go for the love triangles in books, but I quite liked the way H.P Mallory put this triangle in this book and the series really. Now Sinjin is a unique character, he is charming and witty and you just want to smile whenever he is around. But Rand, now he is my favorite. He is brooding and reliable and even though he is a bit too serious at times but I really liked how he handles Jolie in this one. She does test his patient and even though I didn't approve of everything she did in this book, she acted on emotion which I could easily relate with. We see how much she grows as a character and in the end, she makes the right choice and in ways that are spunky and fun!!!
I normally don't go for the love triangles in books, but I quite liked the way H.P Mallory put this triangle in this book and the series really. Now Sinjin is a unique character, he is charming and witty and you just want to smile whenever he is around. But Rand, now he is my favorite. He is brooding and reliable and even though he is a bit too serious at times but I really liked how he handles Jolie in this one. She does test his patient and even though I didn't approve of everything she did in this book, she acted on emotion which I could easily relate with. We see how much she grows as a character and in the end, she makes the right choice and in ways that are spunky and fun!!!
August 6, 2012
1 star (that's being nice)
Dear Diary: Why?
I'm sorry, I hated this one. Jolie sounds likey a whiney pre-pubescent moron. I loved the first two books, it felt like there was real growth in the main character in terms of confidence and personal strength. This book eradicated all that development. There was no action in this just a crapload of rehash and internal monologue. There was hardly any interaction amongst the characters (I don't want to hear in the character's thoughts that she talked to somebody, I actually want to be clued in on the way the scene played between them, the discussion, the response, some level of expression/emotion/mystery).
Also, as I understand Jolie is the queen and must face some crazy threat that wants to wipe out the creatures of the Underworld. Yet she's being schooled on table manners, getting dance lessons, and getting proposed to by everything with a penis. Seriously? How about get tough, kick some ass, and make everything with a penis bring you chocolates and peeled grapes.
Dear Diary: Why?
I'm sorry, I hated this one. Jolie sounds likey a whiney pre-pubescent moron. I loved the first two books, it felt like there was real growth in the main character in terms of confidence and personal strength. This book eradicated all that development. There was no action in this just a crapload of rehash and internal monologue. There was hardly any interaction amongst the characters (I don't want to hear in the character's thoughts that she talked to somebody, I actually want to be clued in on the way the scene played between them, the discussion, the response, some level of expression/emotion/mystery).
Also, as I understand Jolie is the queen and must face some crazy threat that wants to wipe out the creatures of the Underworld. Yet she's being schooled on table manners, getting dance lessons, and getting proposed to by everything with a penis. Seriously? How about get tough, kick some ass, and make everything with a penis bring you chocolates and peeled grapes.
July 13, 2015
This was a re-read, and I won't take stars away, but I think I am falling out of love with Jolie.
March 6, 2012
Witchful Thinking was sort of like filler for me in a way. I’m starting to see a pattern and its getting old.
The whole guy triangle between Rand and Sinjin isn’t going ANYWHERE. It’s one thing if she’s like making out with one and then five seconds later she’s with the other, but neither one of the men are winning and Rand, whom she just ‘loves’ isn’t even attempting to be with her! Yet Sinjin is always there, even going as far as putting himself in charge of her safety, yet she doesn’t give him enough credit. She’s torn between the two and I don’t see why. Rand leads her around in circles. At least Sinjin keeps you on your feet.
So other than the male problems, Jolie FINALLY accepts that Mercedes is right and she’s meant to be queen. She’s shocked when Rand can’t and won’t support any type of monarchy, so he’s out for a while. She moves out of the mansion and guess what? She gets nothing done as queen throughout the book. Sure they have meetings and they narrow down their enemies to the Lurkers, but other than that? Nada. Well, there is the fact that she needs to marry out of her species to unite the kingdom. There’s also the fact that Rand didn’t offer even though he claims to love her. It’s also true that Jolie frees Sinjin from his bosses ties when Sinjin fights him for offering marriage to her.
Oh, yes the bond that Jolie found out was really her in Rand’s past. Well, he doesn’t take it too well (ya think?) and ignores her for a while. Then magically he works through his feelings and decides he does want to be with her. Finally, finally, finally, they jump in bed together, have a blast….but don’t bond. What? Whoa.
Throughout, Jolie has caught Sinjin and Mercedes talking in hushed voices and finally figures out at the end what’s going on. As she watches Mercedes go through the same actions she did when she sent Jolie through time, she realizes Sinjin is having time reversed.
Back two years, Jolie’s in her shop with Christa and meets the handsome Sinjin, who asks her out on a date.
The whole guy triangle between Rand and Sinjin isn’t going ANYWHERE. It’s one thing if she’s like making out with one and then five seconds later she’s with the other, but neither one of the men are winning and Rand, whom she just ‘loves’ isn’t even attempting to be with her! Yet Sinjin is always there, even going as far as putting himself in charge of her safety, yet she doesn’t give him enough credit. She’s torn between the two and I don’t see why. Rand leads her around in circles. At least Sinjin keeps you on your feet.
So other than the male problems, Jolie FINALLY accepts that Mercedes is right and she’s meant to be queen. She’s shocked when Rand can’t and won’t support any type of monarchy, so he’s out for a while. She moves out of the mansion and guess what? She gets nothing done as queen throughout the book. Sure they have meetings and they narrow down their enemies to the Lurkers, but other than that? Nada. Well, there is the fact that she needs to marry out of her species to unite the kingdom. There’s also the fact that Rand didn’t offer even though he claims to love her. It’s also true that Jolie frees Sinjin from his bosses ties when Sinjin fights him for offering marriage to her.
Oh, yes the bond that Jolie found out was really her in Rand’s past. Well, he doesn’t take it too well (ya think?) and ignores her for a while. Then magically he works through his feelings and decides he does want to be with her. Finally, finally, finally, they jump in bed together, have a blast….but don’t bond. What? Whoa.
Throughout, Jolie has caught Sinjin and Mercedes talking in hushed voices and finally figures out at the end what’s going on. As she watches Mercedes go through the same actions she did when she sent Jolie through time, she realizes Sinjin is having time reversed.
Back two years, Jolie’s in her shop with Christa and meets the handsome Sinjin, who asks her out on a date.
February 9, 2021
Screw Sinjin and his freaking 8-pack.
I don't think I ever liked Jolie and now I'm sure of it.
The author has ground into us that the whole point of the series was to keep Jolie and Rand (the people who should be the two main characters) from committing to each other. Which was kinda Ok with me because the man is boring as hell. But Jolie can't pull her head out of her ass long enough to act like an adult. She Knows Rand is the guy for her. There will Never be another for her. (Stupid plot point, but Whatever) To bad her libido didn't get the message. Because it and her brain go haywire every time she so much as thinks about the sinfully seductive Sinjin. yes I intended the onomatopoeia. Every damm time the delectable Sinjin is mentioned our loopy heroine has palpitations, her emotions revert to age twelve, and her IQ slips another 10 points.
It should be enough that we have to read the stupidity as it unfolds; sadly once is never enough for this author. After the scene we get
- The internal dialogue, in which she agonizes about her situation and the delectable Sinjin
- Then the debate jolie has with the tiny portion of herself that actually thinks like an adult. Seriously, the dippy chick argues with herself (constantly) which is probably the funniest part of the book. She outright tells herself she is being an idiot in provable sentences and she still ignores her own on point analysis.
- Then we get the Diary entry detailing everything she just told us three times .
I wouldn't mind it if the book was a love triangle. But it aint. Pretty much the whole thing is Jolie pining for a man who absolutely will not make room for her in his life. And lusting for a man she seems to have no interest in bedding.
I don't think I ever liked Jolie and now I'm sure of it.
The author has ground into us that the whole point of the series was to keep Jolie and Rand (the people who should be the two main characters) from committing to each other. Which was kinda Ok with me because the man is boring as hell. But Jolie can't pull her head out of her ass long enough to act like an adult. She Knows Rand is the guy for her. There will Never be another for her. (Stupid plot point, but Whatever) To bad her libido didn't get the message. Because it and her brain go haywire every time she so much as thinks about the sinfully seductive Sinjin. yes I intended the onomatopoeia. Every damm time the delectable Sinjin is mentioned our loopy heroine has palpitations, her emotions revert to age twelve, and her IQ slips another 10 points.
It should be enough that we have to read the stupidity as it unfolds; sadly once is never enough for this author. After the scene we get
- The internal dialogue, in which she agonizes about her situation and the delectable Sinjin
- Then the debate jolie has with the tiny portion of herself that actually thinks like an adult. Seriously, the dippy chick argues with herself (constantly) which is probably the funniest part of the book. She outright tells herself she is being an idiot in provable sentences and she still ignores her own on point analysis.
- Then we get the Diary entry detailing everything she just told us three times .
I wouldn't mind it if the book was a love triangle. But it aint. Pretty much the whole thing is Jolie pining for a man who absolutely will not make room for her in his life. And lusting for a man she seems to have no interest in bedding.
May 1, 2017
Note: I did not read the prior books in this series so I did have some difficulty with this book in the start.
Overall, an interesting read. Jolie has found out she is a witch and is now thrust into the position of Queen. But Rand, does not support a monarchy, isn’t sure i he can continue his relationship with her.
Meanwhile, she needs to get the support of the underworld after a battle with a large amount of creatures dying, which Jolie is helping to re-animate.
This book reminded me of the “Fever” books by Karen Marie Moning. Its a similar storyline, but not the same as there are many different elements but just something about it made me think that way.
Overall, an interesting read. Jolie has found out she is a witch and is now thrust into the position of Queen. But Rand, does not support a monarchy, isn’t sure i he can continue his relationship with her.
Meanwhile, she needs to get the support of the underworld after a battle with a large amount of creatures dying, which Jolie is helping to re-animate.
This book reminded me of the “Fever” books by Karen Marie Moning. Its a similar storyline, but not the same as there are many different elements but just something about it made me think that way.
March 23, 2024
Witchful Thinking: A Witch Romance Series (Witch, Warlock and Vampire Book 3)
Witchful Thinking: A Witch Romance Series (Witch, Warlock and Vampire Book 3) Jolie's adventure continues...Will she ever live happily ever after with Rand? I asked that question through the entire book...what the heck is Sinjin up to and how is he going to mess up a perfectly matched couple? I do not understand if he truly loves ❤️❤️ her or will break her heart 💔💔..
Ms. Mallory keeps you guessing and leaves you hanging at the end of this book. Will have to move on to the next to find out what happens...
Definitely recommend this book 📕 / series 📚
Witchful Thinking: A Witch Romance Series (Witch, Warlock and Vampire Book 3) Jolie's adventure continues...Will she ever live happily ever after with Rand? I asked that question through the entire book...what the heck is Sinjin up to and how is he going to mess up a perfectly matched couple? I do not understand if he truly loves ❤️❤️ her or will break her heart 💔💔..
Ms. Mallory keeps you guessing and leaves you hanging at the end of this book. Will have to move on to the next to find out what happens...
Definitely recommend this book 📕 / series 📚
August 17, 2012
Decisions, decisions, decisions.
This is the third instalment of the Jolie Wilkins series, and the first one to be published by Bantam, rather than self-published. The series follows the trials and tribulations of Jolie who is a witch, and who also very recently became Queen of the Underworld. It also follows her somewhat complicated love life between the man she loves, Rand, who won't commit, and the man that lusts after her, Sinjin, who is seriously confusing her feelings.
And essentially, that is all this book was about; the love triangle. Which I did enjoy up to a point because I do enjoy the characters of both Rand and Sinjin, and of course Jolie, and I'm quite invested in the outcome at this point. And I even enjoyed some of the unusual complications and roadblocks Mallory has thrown in the way to keep things interesting, and to delay that ultimately inevitable Happily Ever After. But I would also have liked a plot to go with it. Which sadly this book did not posses.
It's actually funny that in my last review I commented on how much stuff Mallory likes to squeeze into each instalment, and regarding books one and two, that statement holds true. Unfortunately not so with this book. There was boy drama and indecision, a house move, some more boy drama and indecision, a few meetings and things for Jolie's new role as Queen, some more boy drama and indecision...you get the idea.
No fighting, no mystery, no bad guys, hardly any magic, even. Just lots of dialogue and angst. I wouldn't go so far as to say the book wasn't enjoyable, and in terms of the Rand- Sinjin- Jolie storyline, it's essential reading, but I was just expecting more.
It was also filled with lots of recaps in the form of journal entries which it's never had before. I can only guess the reason for this is because, with it now being backed by a publishing house, they have assumed people might start the series with this one, and therefore felt the need to try and recap two whole books' worth of stuff. Which is just not possible. It will only serve to be very annoying for readers of the series who don't need the recaps, and for new readers, to be thrown in half way through a war, with existing, complicated inter-character relationships, it will be just too much to take in or connect with and recaps just won't cut it. What folly.
I have to mention as well, I thought I'd accidentally picked up the wrong book when I started reading it and found myself reliving chapter one of book one. Don't worry, you haven't gone mad. (Or at least I don't think so. I'm not a doctor). There is a reason this scene is replayed and it will all make sense by the end of the book.
Whilst I found some of the boy drama overdone, I do appreciate that Jolie, unlike a lot of UF heroines that are all of sudden handed a title like Queen (for no apparent reason- just for being super special) and do nothing but complain about it, Jolie was actually pleased and thankful for it and never (well not much, anyway) bemoaned her new powerful status, even with its drawbacks. She admits it's cool to feel powerful.
Another favourite aspect is how Mallory manages to squeeze a nice dose of drama out of every plot. Even a rather dull one. There were a couple of scenes with Rand and/or Sinjin that were nice and emotive. But, again, only if you've read the first two books and know their history.
I didn't like the amount time it took Jolie to tell Rand about the binding that happened in Toil and Trouble during her sojourn to the past. I didn't fully understand her reasons for keeping it from him. Also, everybody's acceptance of Jolie's new queenly status, which to me seems to be based solely on one woman's assurance that "It's her destiny," is a little suspect. Especially since the entire war they just fought was to prevent another witch becoming Queen and having too much power. Not that I'm comparing Jolie to that evil cow Bella, but still.
I also suffered confusion over some inconsistencies: Did Mathilda make 1978 Rand forget as she kept saying? Or was it as Mercedes said, that the magic of time travelling rinsed them from the minds of anyone who saw them? Answers on a postcard, please.
But, ultimately, it doesn't matter what happened in the beginning and middle this book, or even what didn't happen, because after that KILLER cliffhanger ending, I am now desperate to get my hands on the next book! Just when I thought Mallory had forgotten her knack of keeping the plot fresh and exciting... No, no. She was just saving the best bit for last.
3 Stars ★★★
[image error]
[image error]
This is the third instalment of the Jolie Wilkins series, and the first one to be published by Bantam, rather than self-published. The series follows the trials and tribulations of Jolie who is a witch, and who also very recently became Queen of the Underworld. It also follows her somewhat complicated love life between the man she loves, Rand, who won't commit, and the man that lusts after her, Sinjin, who is seriously confusing her feelings.
And essentially, that is all this book was about; the love triangle. Which I did enjoy up to a point because I do enjoy the characters of both Rand and Sinjin, and of course Jolie, and I'm quite invested in the outcome at this point. And I even enjoyed some of the unusual complications and roadblocks Mallory has thrown in the way to keep things interesting, and to delay that ultimately inevitable Happily Ever After. But I would also have liked a plot to go with it. Which sadly this book did not posses.
It's actually funny that in my last review I commented on how much stuff Mallory likes to squeeze into each instalment, and regarding books one and two, that statement holds true. Unfortunately not so with this book. There was boy drama and indecision, a house move, some more boy drama and indecision, a few meetings and things for Jolie's new role as Queen, some more boy drama and indecision...you get the idea.
No fighting, no mystery, no bad guys, hardly any magic, even. Just lots of dialogue and angst. I wouldn't go so far as to say the book wasn't enjoyable, and in terms of the Rand- Sinjin- Jolie storyline, it's essential reading, but I was just expecting more.
It was also filled with lots of recaps in the form of journal entries which it's never had before. I can only guess the reason for this is because, with it now being backed by a publishing house, they have assumed people might start the series with this one, and therefore felt the need to try and recap two whole books' worth of stuff. Which is just not possible. It will only serve to be very annoying for readers of the series who don't need the recaps, and for new readers, to be thrown in half way through a war, with existing, complicated inter-character relationships, it will be just too much to take in or connect with and recaps just won't cut it. What folly.
I have to mention as well, I thought I'd accidentally picked up the wrong book when I started reading it and found myself reliving chapter one of book one. Don't worry, you haven't gone mad. (Or at least I don't think so. I'm not a doctor). There is a reason this scene is replayed and it will all make sense by the end of the book.
Whilst I found some of the boy drama overdone, I do appreciate that Jolie, unlike a lot of UF heroines that are all of sudden handed a title like Queen (for no apparent reason- just for being super special) and do nothing but complain about it, Jolie was actually pleased and thankful for it and never (well not much, anyway) bemoaned her new powerful status, even with its drawbacks. She admits it's cool to feel powerful.
Another favourite aspect is how Mallory manages to squeeze a nice dose of drama out of every plot. Even a rather dull one. There were a couple of scenes with Rand and/or Sinjin that were nice and emotive. But, again, only if you've read the first two books and know their history.
I didn't like the amount time it took Jolie to tell Rand about the binding that happened in Toil and Trouble during her sojourn to the past. I didn't fully understand her reasons for keeping it from him. Also, everybody's acceptance of Jolie's new queenly status, which to me seems to be based solely on one woman's assurance that "It's her destiny," is a little suspect. Especially since the entire war they just fought was to prevent another witch becoming Queen and having too much power. Not that I'm comparing Jolie to that evil cow Bella, but still.
I also suffered confusion over some inconsistencies: Did Mathilda make 1978 Rand forget as she kept saying? Or was it as Mercedes said, that the magic of time travelling rinsed them from the minds of anyone who saw them? Answers on a postcard, please.
But, ultimately, it doesn't matter what happened in the beginning and middle this book, or even what didn't happen, because after that KILLER cliffhanger ending, I am now desperate to get my hands on the next book! Just when I thought Mallory had forgotten her knack of keeping the plot fresh and exciting... No, no. She was just saving the best bit for last.
3 Stars ★★★
[image error]
[image error]
February 7, 2012
Witchful Thinking is actually the third book in the Jolie Wilkins series, although it is the first to be published by a major publisher. The first two books, Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble and Toil and Trouble, are both self-published and most widely available in digital format. I did not realize this when I requested Witchful Thinking from the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program or I would not have selected this book. I was able to borrow a paperback copy of Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble from my library to review but had no luck obtaining a physical copy of Toil and Trouble even though both the author's website and Amazon show that a paperback version should exist.
I'm actually not sure if one would be better off reading both of the previous books in the series or just starting straight in with Witchful Thinking. Because this is the first book from a traditional publisher, many people seeing it in a bookstore would have no idea that there were two books already in the series. The story takes this into account heavily with the prologue to this book being the first chapter from Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble. Having read that book, I could identify major sections of information dumping to catch the reader up on all that had happened when Jolie first met Rand. I had a little more trouble identifying pure information dumps from the second book only because I have not read it. Having missed out on that action, it was very clear that I was being brought up to date but I was not as clear on how much of that portion of the story was repetition and how much was simply being examined through a new lens based on current events. It felt like it took over half the book to really get into the current action. While this might be good for a first time reader, it was frustrating to know how much repetition was happening.
My biggest issue with this series, especially this book, is that I simply don't like the characters all that much. I must be used to much stronger female characters from reading a lot of urban fantasy. Jolie drove me absolutely crazy because she was such a doormat. Every time she made a decision, she would question herself and fill her own head with self-doubt. She changed her mind every time a hot guy entered the room and it didn't always seem to matter which one. She is told it is her destiny to be Queen of the Underworld and takes on the role even though she is constantly whining that it is one she doesn't want. She decides to rule in her own way only to have those around her change her ideas and block her at every turn. The constant whining about Rand and her inability to hold her own where he was concerned truly made me want to throw the book across the room at times. Rand had a lot of the same issues as Jolie as far as making decisions and changing his mind and not acting on his feelings and so on. I realize it is a paranormal romance, which is not a genre I read much, but does that mean the characters must be spineless?
I didn't particularly like the format of this book either with the use of diary entries. Some of them felt like just ways to dump information while others were more of Jolie's whining and uncertainty.
Without being too spoilery, I will say that the ending seemed an awfully convenient way to keep the series going but I'm afraid it will lend itself to even more repetition and information dumping in future books. I won't be sticking around to find out though as this is not a series that I plan to continue.
I'm actually not sure if one would be better off reading both of the previous books in the series or just starting straight in with Witchful Thinking. Because this is the first book from a traditional publisher, many people seeing it in a bookstore would have no idea that there were two books already in the series. The story takes this into account heavily with the prologue to this book being the first chapter from Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble. Having read that book, I could identify major sections of information dumping to catch the reader up on all that had happened when Jolie first met Rand. I had a little more trouble identifying pure information dumps from the second book only because I have not read it. Having missed out on that action, it was very clear that I was being brought up to date but I was not as clear on how much of that portion of the story was repetition and how much was simply being examined through a new lens based on current events. It felt like it took over half the book to really get into the current action. While this might be good for a first time reader, it was frustrating to know how much repetition was happening.
My biggest issue with this series, especially this book, is that I simply don't like the characters all that much. I must be used to much stronger female characters from reading a lot of urban fantasy. Jolie drove me absolutely crazy because she was such a doormat. Every time she made a decision, she would question herself and fill her own head with self-doubt. She changed her mind every time a hot guy entered the room and it didn't always seem to matter which one. She is told it is her destiny to be Queen of the Underworld and takes on the role even though she is constantly whining that it is one she doesn't want. She decides to rule in her own way only to have those around her change her ideas and block her at every turn. The constant whining about Rand and her inability to hold her own where he was concerned truly made me want to throw the book across the room at times. Rand had a lot of the same issues as Jolie as far as making decisions and changing his mind and not acting on his feelings and so on. I realize it is a paranormal romance, which is not a genre I read much, but does that mean the characters must be spineless?
I didn't particularly like the format of this book either with the use of diary entries. Some of them felt like just ways to dump information while others were more of Jolie's whining and uncertainty.
Without being too spoilery, I will say that the ending seemed an awfully convenient way to keep the series going but I'm afraid it will lend itself to even more repetition and information dumping in future books. I won't be sticking around to find out though as this is not a series that I plan to continue.
January 4, 2017
Booooring! This book was about NOTHING, until the very end! The end is a cliffhanger ! This is pretty much what happened in the last book , too ! Nothing, nothing, nothing, nothing - major twist, cliffhanger, the end! NOT COOL!
The whole book is a drama between Rand and Jolie - will they or won't they ! They have no real reason NOT to be together, she has no real reason not to tell him they have already bonded, he has no real reason to constantly act like a cold jackass... AND Sinjun really needs to get laid !
The whole book is a drama between Rand and Jolie - will they or won't they ! They have no real reason NOT to be together, she has no real reason not to tell him they have already bonded, he has no real reason to constantly act like a cold jackass... AND Sinjun really needs to get laid !
February 28, 2020
Bu serinin devamı nasıl çevrilmez anlamış değilim.Ay afakanlar bastı yok mu hafızamı silecek bir büyü komşular komşular...
August 26, 2016
Orignal post at my blog: FANGSWANDS AND FAIRY DUST March 16, 2012
When is someone's style truly unique and and when is it simply good in some areas and lacking in others? I think Mallory has some strong points in her writing that make it unique and fun: voice, plot outline, twists, character development. I think her work falls short a bit in believable continuity and plot execution, emotional content.
No work or writer is "perfect" though so you have to read a book and decide whether its strengths outweigh its limitations.
Mallory writes from her character, Jolie's, point of view. Jolie is two years into being part of this supernatural underworld of a variety of species. I missed the second book so the introduction of the "Prophetess" character was new, and I failed to understand why anyone trusted this character. And the character no one is supposed to trust, Sinjin, turns out to be, well....
I also didn't believe the stated emotions between Jolie and her guy, Rand. Emotionally, the story overall felt a bit insulated against what the characters "real" emotions. Could it have been the result of some kind of spell cast by the Prophetess? I don't know. I just found it hard to believe the plot as a result of the associated behaviors and emotions.
One of the central themes of the story is reanimation of basically any supernatural killed in the battle between the good and bad supes. What plagued me throughout was the idea that Jolie could reanimate pretty much anyone after which they seem to be whole and healed. She suffers a loss of energy, but hardly enough. The use of magic to stop headaches or whatever is cheaply applied. She gets a crick in her neck because she turns her head fast and "magicks it away." But magic always has a cost, or it's too cheaply held and hard to take seriously.
On the other hand, Mallory stays true to Jolie's humble, yet snarky, voice. I can accept the ambivalence with which she approaches being queen and with being a modern woman from the United States thrust into a very weird place both politically and emotionally. I think the approach she takes toward governing the underworld could have been much more directly stated. Mallory took the long trip around the barn.
In summary, I like the voice with which Jolie is written but I don't believe the plot and the emotional content. The idea of the plot is unique, especially the twists and turns, but it felt like an outline. I also think the use of magic is too easy and without substantial cost. If magic is too easy it is hard to suspend disbelief.
When is someone's style truly unique and and when is it simply good in some areas and lacking in others? I think Mallory has some strong points in her writing that make it unique and fun: voice, plot outline, twists, character development. I think her work falls short a bit in believable continuity and plot execution, emotional content.
No work or writer is "perfect" though so you have to read a book and decide whether its strengths outweigh its limitations.
Mallory writes from her character, Jolie's, point of view. Jolie is two years into being part of this supernatural underworld of a variety of species. I missed the second book so the introduction of the "Prophetess" character was new, and I failed to understand why anyone trusted this character. And the character no one is supposed to trust, Sinjin, turns out to be, well....
I also didn't believe the stated emotions between Jolie and her guy, Rand. Emotionally, the story overall felt a bit insulated against what the characters "real" emotions. Could it have been the result of some kind of spell cast by the Prophetess? I don't know. I just found it hard to believe the plot as a result of the associated behaviors and emotions.
One of the central themes of the story is reanimation of basically any supernatural killed in the battle between the good and bad supes. What plagued me throughout was the idea that Jolie could reanimate pretty much anyone after which they seem to be whole and healed. She suffers a loss of energy, but hardly enough. The use of magic to stop headaches or whatever is cheaply applied. She gets a crick in her neck because she turns her head fast and "magicks it away." But magic always has a cost, or it's too cheaply held and hard to take seriously.
On the other hand, Mallory stays true to Jolie's humble, yet snarky, voice. I can accept the ambivalence with which she approaches being queen and with being a modern woman from the United States thrust into a very weird place both politically and emotionally. I think the approach she takes toward governing the underworld could have been much more directly stated. Mallory took the long trip around the barn.
In summary, I like the voice with which Jolie is written but I don't believe the plot and the emotional content. The idea of the plot is unique, especially the twists and turns, but it felt like an outline. I also think the use of magic is too easy and without substantial cost. If magic is too easy it is hard to suspend disbelief.
November 25, 2012
*2.5*
Here's the thing: there are some good plot points here in terms of Jolie's placement in the Underworld, but the execution is sorely lacking.
All three books feature a romance that frustrates the hell out of me. Jolie is like a lovesick school girl who can't concentrate on anything but her One Twu Wuv...except for when she's leading on poor, crazed Sinjin. Now, I have a very narrow mindset when it comes to romantic portrayals, so I often just shelve my irritations in this area if the rest of the story intrigues.
That's hard to do with this series since so much of the action is obscured by emotional fahlala. And this book compounds the problem by giving us a hell of a lot of telling instead of showing.
I don't know whose idea it was to introduce Dear Diary sessions in this installment, but it was an incredibly poor choice. Rather than "living" some of the more pivotal scenes, we had to suffer through Jolie's quickie journal entries summarising what's occurred. The result is incredibly lazy story-telling that robs other characters their moments of glory. It also reinforces the notion that Jolie is rather juvenile and selfish in many of her interactions and interpretations.
Adding to the lazy feel are the many flashbacks. Whole sections of previous books have been copied and pasted into this one as Jolie recalls key moments of the past two years. Why is this necessary? I know most series books incorporate recaps, but this is over the top. If I wanted to relive so many scenes in full detail, I'd just go back and re-read them. This technique was a total turn-off.
I believe this book marks the author's move from self-pub to trad pub. I wonder if she was asked to establish these past scenes for new readers? Both the flashbacks and diary entries seemed completely out of place compared to the writing of the first two books, hence my question.
Once again, there's a big ooooo at the close of the installment. It's a conniving one, designed to keep me reading. I just wish there was the slightest chance this story might really go off the rails and surprise me, but I don't hold out much hope.
Here's the thing: there are some good plot points here in terms of Jolie's placement in the Underworld, but the execution is sorely lacking.
All three books feature a romance that frustrates the hell out of me. Jolie is like a lovesick school girl who can't concentrate on anything but her One Twu Wuv...except for when she's leading on poor, crazed Sinjin. Now, I have a very narrow mindset when it comes to romantic portrayals, so I often just shelve my irritations in this area if the rest of the story intrigues.
That's hard to do with this series since so much of the action is obscured by emotional fahlala. And this book compounds the problem by giving us a hell of a lot of telling instead of showing.
I don't know whose idea it was to introduce Dear Diary sessions in this installment, but it was an incredibly poor choice. Rather than "living" some of the more pivotal scenes, we had to suffer through Jolie's quickie journal entries summarising what's occurred. The result is incredibly lazy story-telling that robs other characters their moments of glory. It also reinforces the notion that Jolie is rather juvenile and selfish in many of her interactions and interpretations.
Adding to the lazy feel are the many flashbacks. Whole sections of previous books have been copied and pasted into this one as Jolie recalls key moments of the past two years. Why is this necessary? I know most series books incorporate recaps, but this is over the top. If I wanted to relive so many scenes in full detail, I'd just go back and re-read them. This technique was a total turn-off.
I believe this book marks the author's move from self-pub to trad pub. I wonder if she was asked to establish these past scenes for new readers? Both the flashbacks and diary entries seemed completely out of place compared to the writing of the first two books, hence my question.
Once again, there's a big ooooo at the close of the installment. It's a conniving one, designed to keep me reading. I just wish there was the slightest chance this story might really go off the rails and surprise me, but I don't hold out much hope.
December 11, 2012
Please note: I read and reviewed this in January 2012. Because I had misunderstood my ToS with Amazon Vine, I had not added the review on this site, so I'm now doing so.
Disclaimer: I picked up the first two books in the series from Barnes & Noble on my own and had them on hand when I received this third book from the Amazon Vine program. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: The war is over and Jolie has been declared Queen of the Underworld - not that she wants anything to do with it. However, it is apparently her fate, and almost everyone agrees that it is as it should be, so she reluctantly takes up the reins to reign. Rand is opposed to it, of course, as he does not approve of monarchy in principle. Sinjin has appointed himself as her protector and assigned himself as her bodyguard during the night. Jolie realizes that she needs to bring together the few Underworlders that there are in order to stand together against the Lurkers, who are gaining in strength and population even as the Underworlders are dwindling. Will Jolie finally be able to force Rand to make a decision? What about Sinjin - what are his intentions? And could the Lurkers be organizing?
My Thoughts: This book was a bit different that the previous two - more angst, and some of it was made up of journal entries by Jolie. I wouldn't say I disliked it - it just was less lighthearted than the previous books. I believe this series is taking a turn into drama llama territory, but it is still so well-written, and now I'm invested in these characters. I'll be watching for "The Witch is Back," due out later in 2012. Recommended for fans of paranormal romance and urban fantasy.
See my review on Amazon here.
Disclaimer: I picked up the first two books in the series from Barnes & Noble on my own and had them on hand when I received this third book from the Amazon Vine program. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: The war is over and Jolie has been declared Queen of the Underworld - not that she wants anything to do with it. However, it is apparently her fate, and almost everyone agrees that it is as it should be, so she reluctantly takes up the reins to reign. Rand is opposed to it, of course, as he does not approve of monarchy in principle. Sinjin has appointed himself as her protector and assigned himself as her bodyguard during the night. Jolie realizes that she needs to bring together the few Underworlders that there are in order to stand together against the Lurkers, who are gaining in strength and population even as the Underworlders are dwindling. Will Jolie finally be able to force Rand to make a decision? What about Sinjin - what are his intentions? And could the Lurkers be organizing?
My Thoughts: This book was a bit different that the previous two - more angst, and some of it was made up of journal entries by Jolie. I wouldn't say I disliked it - it just was less lighthearted than the previous books. I believe this series is taking a turn into drama llama territory, but it is still so well-written, and now I'm invested in these characters. I'll be watching for "The Witch is Back," due out later in 2012. Recommended for fans of paranormal romance and urban fantasy.
See my review on Amazon here.
March 1, 2012
I gave this book 3 stars last night, but upon waking the next day and thinking about this book, I decided to give it 2 stars (maybe even 1), because I'm irritated by most of the book, but mainly the ending. Reasons why?:
1. Half of the book is talking about the other 2.5 books. Yawn. Dear Author, I read your series, and I get the hints, innuendos, and I don't need Jolie's diary to spell out the plot for me. I felt like instead of rehashing what I already knew, you could have given us more info about Mercedes, Sinjin, and maybe progressed more with Rand, but no we get to relive the other books, then the last few chapters you drop big things on our lap and then don't even deal with them, but present a COMPLETE different direction for this series for the ending part of this book. I feel like this book could have added more insight to the characters, but instead made me have MORE questions about them, particularly Sinjin and Mercedes.
2. Throw us a damn bone with Rand and Jolie's relationship!! Jesus, their relationship is so hot and cold and it feels like once they are progressing, something happens and then it's back to square one again. I'm starting to look at them as the annoying couple that always break up, but end up back together. I'm also feeling like your doing this to your readers because you regret making Rand the main man of Jolie and trying to convince us that Sinjin is a better fit.
3. WHY IS SINJIN EVEN A RUNNER UP???!!! *NOT a fan of Sinjin* I'm getting sick of the love triangle.
I want to see what happens with this series, but I don't appreciate being jerked around so the author can squeeze out more books. I'm really fighting with myself, if I even care to find out what happens with the 4th book. We'll see in July...
1. Half of the book is talking about the other 2.5 books. Yawn. Dear Author, I read your series, and I get the hints, innuendos, and I don't need Jolie's diary to spell out the plot for me. I felt like instead of rehashing what I already knew, you could have given us more info about Mercedes, Sinjin, and maybe progressed more with Rand, but no we get to relive the other books, then the last few chapters you drop big things on our lap and then don't even deal with them, but present a COMPLETE different direction for this series for the ending part of this book. I feel like this book could have added more insight to the characters, but instead made me have MORE questions about them, particularly Sinjin and Mercedes.
2. Throw us a damn bone with Rand and Jolie's relationship!! Jesus, their relationship is so hot and cold and it feels like once they are progressing, something happens and then it's back to square one again. I'm starting to look at them as the annoying couple that always break up, but end up back together. I'm also feeling like your doing this to your readers because you regret making Rand the main man of Jolie and trying to convince us that Sinjin is a better fit.
3. WHY IS SINJIN EVEN A RUNNER UP???!!! *NOT a fan of Sinjin* I'm getting sick of the love triangle.
I want to see what happens with this series, but I don't appreciate being jerked around so the author can squeeze out more books. I'm really fighting with myself, if I even care to find out what happens with the 4th book. We'll see in July...
March 14, 2012
I won this one on first-reads and desperately wanted to give it a good review, but that's just not going to happen. I'm a big fan of urban fantasy and paranormal romance in general, and something about this book just doesn't quite do it for me. This book itself seems to be set outside modern society which generally isn't something I'm looking for.
Positives:
1) Includes history and re-introduction of characters woven into the story so people who haven't read the first books in the series.
2) Clear character development, you get a sense of the personalities.
Negatives:
1) I can't tell if the all of the history elements were covered in previous books or are new information included in this book. The events definitely took place after the start of the series but are either a) if previously covered extremely overdone, redundant content or b) if it's new why is it telling about it as something that has happened rather than letting the reader experience it with the main character?
2) The book goes back and forth between a first person narrative and a journal-entry style. It may be a personal taste thing, but I really don't enjoy books that do so. It seems redundant. In a first person narrative we know what's happening as the character experiences it so having the journal entries feels repetitive at best.
3) Last, and while I'm not a huge fan of overdone/graphic sex scenes in every book I read, but what's the point of writing a romance novel where the main characters either can't or won't have sex with each other? That's like, at least, half the point. Right?
Maybe I'm missing too much from not reading the first few books in the series but overall this wasn't my favorite ever.
Positives:
1) Includes history and re-introduction of characters woven into the story so people who haven't read the first books in the series.
2) Clear character development, you get a sense of the personalities.
Negatives:
1) I can't tell if the all of the history elements were covered in previous books or are new information included in this book. The events definitely took place after the start of the series but are either a) if previously covered extremely overdone, redundant content or b) if it's new why is it telling about it as something that has happened rather than letting the reader experience it with the main character?
2) The book goes back and forth between a first person narrative and a journal-entry style. It may be a personal taste thing, but I really don't enjoy books that do so. It seems redundant. In a first person narrative we know what's happening as the character experiences it so having the journal entries feels repetitive at best.
3) Last, and while I'm not a huge fan of overdone/graphic sex scenes in every book I read, but what's the point of writing a romance novel where the main characters either can't or won't have sex with each other? That's like, at least, half the point. Right?
Maybe I'm missing too much from not reading the first few books in the series but overall this wasn't my favorite ever.
October 31, 2016
I was happy to receive this book through the Goodreads Giveaways.
While I don't judge a book by its cover, this cover did give me an erroneous impression. I was expecting a more sweet story like "Bewitched" but I almost gave it up in the beginning because it seems to be a mashup of a romance novel with a vampire/werewolf fantasy.
I found the main character annoying as it seemed to be a stream of consciousness narrative that was giving me whiplash as she would start saying something then revert to something in the past and then back again. Her constant whining and feeling sorry for herself whipping back to being a powerful in charge woman only to melt once again because she decided to give up men but he gave her a hopeful sign made me want to slap some sense into her.
The book finally seemed to settle down into a more cohesive story that turned into a long walk to nowhere. As I neared the end of the book I began to think I could see the ending and hoped the author would not go there. But go there they did.
I suppose if you got invested in the characters it is an incentive to buy the next book but while I did begin to care about the characters and become a bit more comfortable in their world, I do not care enough to return for another walk.
Overall, the writing is good and if you like this genre, you may find it more appealing than I did.
While I don't judge a book by its cover, this cover did give me an erroneous impression. I was expecting a more sweet story like "Bewitched" but I almost gave it up in the beginning because it seems to be a mashup of a romance novel with a vampire/werewolf fantasy.
I found the main character annoying as it seemed to be a stream of consciousness narrative that was giving me whiplash as she would start saying something then revert to something in the past and then back again. Her constant whining and feeling sorry for herself whipping back to being a powerful in charge woman only to melt once again because she decided to give up men but he gave her a hopeful sign made me want to slap some sense into her.
The book finally seemed to settle down into a more cohesive story that turned into a long walk to nowhere. As I neared the end of the book I began to think I could see the ending and hoped the author would not go there. But go there they did.
I suppose if you got invested in the characters it is an incentive to buy the next book but while I did begin to care about the characters and become a bit more comfortable in their world, I do not care enough to return for another walk.
Overall, the writing is good and if you like this genre, you may find it more appealing than I did.
October 12, 2012
This series, interestingly enough gets worse with time. The first novel wasn't terrible, had a few flaws, most notably the strange way the book ended, like they were at work or something and the clock hit 5 and everyone just stopped in the middle of what they were doing. Anyway, back on topic, the book is what you'd call very meta, it dialogue is oddly straight and to the point and feels plastic, nothing is what you could actually see two people having a conversation about.
For example, the book opens with them in the fey village (several days away from Rand's house, even further from the fey village) with things picking up strangely exactly where they left off...
Several days later even though Jolie has apparently had enough time to get settled, find the materials and get started on a journal Rand is still covered in battlefield, dirt and dried blood. Why? There is absolutely no reason for any of this. They proceed to talk about things that would have been pertinent to speak about several days ago.
Finally, a comment on the first two books.
Double, double toil and trouble;
Fire burn, and caldron bubble.
Took 2 seconds to google search that, not hard. If you're going to make a reference to something at least put it in the right order.
For example, the book opens with them in the fey village (several days away from Rand's house, even further from the fey village) with things picking up strangely exactly where they left off...
Several days later even though Jolie has apparently had enough time to get settled, find the materials and get started on a journal Rand is still covered in battlefield, dirt and dried blood. Why? There is absolutely no reason for any of this. They proceed to talk about things that would have been pertinent to speak about several days ago.
Finally, a comment on the first two books.
Double, double toil and trouble;
Fire burn, and caldron bubble.
Took 2 seconds to google search that, not hard. If you're going to make a reference to something at least put it in the right order.
December 19, 2011
I have to admit that during the beginning of this book, I had to almost force myself to keep reading through all the corn-ball come-ons and references to extremely well-muscled male physiques, but the further I got into it and got to know the characters I just gave up being critical and accepted it as the goofy paranormal romance story it is.
And I liked it! It’s basically the Twilight Saga for twenty-somethings.
This is a light, quirky read filled with time travel, fairies, witches, vampires, werewolves, demons and what our pretty little blonde heroine has to go through to become the Queen of the Underworld and get her man.
What’s nice about this book is that even though it is number three in the series, you don’t really have to have read the first two, as our girl Jolie fills you in on what’s what and when was when.
I will admit this ended on a nice cliff-hanger, left me slightly breathless like a school-girl after gym class dodge ball, before I caught myself and realized where I was and that I was too old for vampire/warlock love triangles…. Or am I?!?!
Thanks H.P. Mallory, and thanks again Goodreads: yet another fun time I won for free from ARC/ giveaways!
And I liked it! It’s basically the Twilight Saga for twenty-somethings.
This is a light, quirky read filled with time travel, fairies, witches, vampires, werewolves, demons and what our pretty little blonde heroine has to go through to become the Queen of the Underworld and get her man.
What’s nice about this book is that even though it is number three in the series, you don’t really have to have read the first two, as our girl Jolie fills you in on what’s what and when was when.
I will admit this ended on a nice cliff-hanger, left me slightly breathless like a school-girl after gym class dodge ball, before I caught myself and realized where I was and that I was too old for vampire/warlock love triangles…. Or am I?!?!
Thanks H.P. Mallory, and thanks again Goodreads: yet another fun time I won for free from ARC/ giveaways!
June 15, 2013
This book was very boring, we get Jolie is Queen and she is not liking that fact, but, does it have to take an entire book to get that across!
Also We can do without the journal, this is written first person so Journal is not needed.
Why all the pushing of products, IE you don't have to mention Victoria Secrets PJs every time she goes to bed?
I wanted this book to be better esp after the bonding that happened last book. Jolie's character has regressed. She seems very hormonal and even bipolar in this book, someone that every one should notice is not fit to be Queen. C'mon she changes her feelings for Sinj and Rand more than she changes her VS Pjs.
I wish the "WTF" business would stop too. They say the "GD word" all series long. No one says WTF out loud.
Something else I though was horrible,is the fact H.P. does a TON of copy and pasting "word by word" scenes from last book. We only need a short review of what happened last book. If you do no have enough material then, make the book shorter. I skipped over all of those since I just read the last books recently.
I am sticking to the books and hope that the next one is not more of this crap. :(
Also We can do without the journal, this is written first person so Journal is not needed.
Why all the pushing of products, IE you don't have to mention Victoria Secrets PJs every time she goes to bed?
I wanted this book to be better esp after the bonding that happened last book. Jolie's character has regressed. She seems very hormonal and even bipolar in this book, someone that every one should notice is not fit to be Queen. C'mon she changes her feelings for Sinj and Rand more than she changes her VS Pjs.
I wish the "WTF" business would stop too. They say the "GD word" all series long. No one says WTF out loud.
Something else I though was horrible,is the fact H.P. does a TON of copy and pasting "word by word" scenes from last book. We only need a short review of what happened last book. If you do no have enough material then, make the book shorter. I skipped over all of those since I just read the last books recently.
I am sticking to the books and hope that the next one is not more of this crap. :(
March 4, 2012
If you are looking for a serious novel bereft of sexual tensions and somewhat frustrating plot development, this and the preceding books are probably not for you. However, this third book in the Jolie Wilkins series is a light and fun read with an enjoyable story and characters.
I have liked all of H P Mallory’s books; however, I did not enjoy this third novel as well as the others. Even after finishing the book and sort of understanding the author’s intent, a large portion of this book repeats information from the preceding two and can get repetitive.
Having thoroughly enjoyed the first book, I promptly purchased the rest of the series and read the books back to back. I do not recommend doing this because of the amount of repetition in the third book. I think that if readers would take a break from the series after finishing the second book before starting the third, they would probably enjoy this novel a lot more because the repeated information would be a reminder of previous events rather than an annoyance.
I have liked all of H P Mallory’s books; however, I did not enjoy this third novel as well as the others. Even after finishing the book and sort of understanding the author’s intent, a large portion of this book repeats information from the preceding two and can get repetitive.
Having thoroughly enjoyed the first book, I promptly purchased the rest of the series and read the books back to back. I do not recommend doing this because of the amount of repetition in the third book. I think that if readers would take a break from the series after finishing the second book before starting the third, they would probably enjoy this novel a lot more because the repeated information would be a reminder of previous events rather than an annoyance.
August 5, 2016
Another great one! The end is unbelievable!!!!! Can't wait to start the next! This one is an emotional rollercoaster ride between Rand and Sinjin.
Jolie thinks she’s seen it all, but life continues to spring surprises. The latest shocker? She’s just been crowned queen of the underworld. Jolie may possess a rare gift for reanimating the dead, but she doesn’t know the first thing about governing disparate factions of supernatural creatures. She can barely maintain order in her own chaotic personal life, which is heading into a romantic tailspin.
First there’s sexy warlock Rand, the love of her life, from whom Jolie is hiding a devastating secret. Then there’s Sinjin, a darkly seductive vampire and Jolie’s sworn protector—though others suspect he harbors ulterior motives. As the two polar opposite yet magnetic men vie for Jolie’s affection, she must keep her wits about her to balance affairs of state and affairs of her heart. Overwhelmed, under pressure, and longing for love, Jolie decides it’s time to take charge—and show everyone that this queen won’t take jack
Jolie thinks she’s seen it all, but life continues to spring surprises. The latest shocker? She’s just been crowned queen of the underworld. Jolie may possess a rare gift for reanimating the dead, but she doesn’t know the first thing about governing disparate factions of supernatural creatures. She can barely maintain order in her own chaotic personal life, which is heading into a romantic tailspin.
First there’s sexy warlock Rand, the love of her life, from whom Jolie is hiding a devastating secret. Then there’s Sinjin, a darkly seductive vampire and Jolie’s sworn protector—though others suspect he harbors ulterior motives. As the two polar opposite yet magnetic men vie for Jolie’s affection, she must keep her wits about her to balance affairs of state and affairs of her heart. Overwhelmed, under pressure, and longing for love, Jolie decides it’s time to take charge—and show everyone that this queen won’t take jack
February 22, 2012
2.5 stars
This book will delight new readers with angst, romantic tension, a teensy bit of action and sprinkle of magic. But it will disappoint loyal readers of this series.
Starting at the title, you can tell this book sets a different tone. With titles like Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble or Toil and Trouble, you can tell the books will be fun with lots of action and a large dose of romance. With a title like Witchful Thinking, you can definitely expect a lot of thinking. The first 2/3rd was spent recounting what happened in the first 2 books. Which reminded me how awesome they were and that they are being regurgitated in this book. Jolie was very whiny and annoying. Then finally, just when I thought the story arc was going to move forward. Bam! It ended. I felt like I took 1 step forward and 2 steps back.
At the end of the day, I am disappointed but willing to hang in there for one more book. There’s too many good books out there waiting to be read.
This book will delight new readers with angst, romantic tension, a teensy bit of action and sprinkle of magic. But it will disappoint loyal readers of this series.
Starting at the title, you can tell this book sets a different tone. With titles like Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble or Toil and Trouble, you can tell the books will be fun with lots of action and a large dose of romance. With a title like Witchful Thinking, you can definitely expect a lot of thinking. The first 2/3rd was spent recounting what happened in the first 2 books. Which reminded me how awesome they were and that they are being regurgitated in this book. Jolie was very whiny and annoying. Then finally, just when I thought the story arc was going to move forward. Bam! It ended. I felt like I took 1 step forward and 2 steps back.
At the end of the day, I am disappointed but willing to hang in there for one more book. There’s too many good books out there waiting to be read.
August 7, 2012
Okay, let's start off saying I REALLY enjoyed the first two books. Jolie was smart, funny, and on point. This book starts off with a whole other Jolie. This Jolie can't decide what's up from down and what's more she is the FRIG FRAGGIN' QUEEN of the underworld, but she's basically like," who cares about that? Rand or Sinjin?" She is so indecisive in this book that I almost put it down. I felt as though she never really gave Sinjin a chance and lead him along and then Rand didn't know he wanted either. Sinjin didn't seem that crazy up and down to me, but RAND AND JOLIE gosh, I mean there is only so many times they can keep going back and forth! She should have made her decision a lot sooner or been a lot more consistent about her feelings all together! I am not trying to be harsh and I hope that's not how I sound, but I was disappointed that this book lacked so much compared to the first books in the series. Overall, this book was okay, but I ended up confused at the end.
May 18, 2012
There aren't many authors that can weave a story and create characters the way H.P. Mallory can. She writes with a certain style, sprinkling in all those little bits of humor that makes her stories so darn fun. This latest installment in the Jolie Wilkins series is no exception.
Just being crowned the queen of the underworld has given Jolie too much to deal with, even for a powerful witch such as herself. Her ever-complicated relationship with Rand is at stake, and that's not even touching on her confusing feelings regarding Sinjin. Oh, and there's that whole becoming a queen issue. Yikes.
This book had me pulled in from the very first page, and after reading the ending I'm chomping at the bit to get my hands on the next installment. After all, H.P. Mallory is finally giving my favorite dangerously sexy vampire his time to shine.
Just being crowned the queen of the underworld has given Jolie too much to deal with, even for a powerful witch such as herself. Her ever-complicated relationship with Rand is at stake, and that's not even touching on her confusing feelings regarding Sinjin. Oh, and there's that whole becoming a queen issue. Yikes.
This book had me pulled in from the very first page, and after reading the ending I'm chomping at the bit to get my hands on the next installment. After all, H.P. Mallory is finally giving my favorite dangerously sexy vampire his time to shine.
March 9, 2012
Although it started off some what slow, i found that it somewhat tried to bring in 2 other books in this one. Which is why I found myself skimming over some parts. I like the story line and the progression of what is going on. Despite all this, I was genuinely amused and found myself anticipating what was to come. I was over the fact that Rand was yes but no. I was finally glad that he finally decided to do something. I just didn't wish that it took almost the whole book for it to happen. And in tradition with HP's style the cliffhanger was something that I was not anticipating. Although I had already surmised that Sinjin was bound to do something drastic, I didn't think it would lead to what he ended up doing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2012
Really a 2.5 rating rounding up to 3. The use of extended journal entries to describe the action in the first two books was annoying. Yes, you need to recap a little but this was overkill. Also, the on and off again relationship between Jolie and Rand is getting old; I'm still rooting for Sinjin. Jolie as Queen of the Underworld is not very believable but her character isn't comfortable with the role either. However...there's something I like about these books and there was a very intriguing twist at the end that got me to pre-order the next book in the series.
This series is a good example of effective e-book pricing. I would never pay $7.99 for these but at $3.99 or less, I feel I'm getting my money's worth.
This series is a good example of effective e-book pricing. I would never pay $7.99 for these but at $3.99 or less, I feel I'm getting my money's worth.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 436 reviews