What do you think?
Rate this book
Broken Mirrors #1
Coyote's Creed
Always have an ace up your sleeve.
Broken Mirrors, Book 1
If con games were taught in high school, Spencer Crain would be on the honor roll. As it is, he’ll be riding the edge of failure to graduation next month. Then Spence gets the news that his long-gone father is not only dead, but was a Coyote, one of three clans of tricksters in the City.
With a near-catatonic mother on his hands, Spence couldn’t care less about the Coyotes’ ongoing feud with the Phouka and the Kitsune—until it lands on his doorstep. Suddenly he’s thrown headfirst into a dangerous world he knows next-to-nothing about. His only guide is Rourke, dashing King of the Phouka, plus a growing pack of half-siblings, a god, and Fate herself.
As Spence embarks on a journey to learn the Coyote’s creed, the truth about his heritage, and how to handle his growing attraction to Rourke, he wonders when his life turned from TV sitcom to real-life danger zone. And what price must he pay to survive the next roll of the dice…
Product Contains PG-13 rated violence, R-rated language and X-rated hotel scenes. Meta-humor, pop-culture humor, utter disregard for the 4th wall abound.
Broken Mirrors, Book 1
If con games were taught in high school, Spencer Crain would be on the honor roll. As it is, he’ll be riding the edge of failure to graduation next month. Then Spence gets the news that his long-gone father is not only dead, but was a Coyote, one of three clans of tricksters in the City.
With a near-catatonic mother on his hands, Spence couldn’t care less about the Coyotes’ ongoing feud with the Phouka and the Kitsune—until it lands on his doorstep. Suddenly he’s thrown headfirst into a dangerous world he knows next-to-nothing about. His only guide is Rourke, dashing King of the Phouka, plus a growing pack of half-siblings, a god, and Fate herself.
As Spence embarks on a journey to learn the Coyote’s creed, the truth about his heritage, and how to handle his growing attraction to Rourke, he wonders when his life turned from TV sitcom to real-life danger zone. And what price must he pay to survive the next roll of the dice…
Product Contains PG-13 rated violence, R-rated language and X-rated hotel scenes. Meta-humor, pop-culture humor, utter disregard for the 4th wall abound.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2011
12 people are currently reading
1550 people want to read
About the author
Vaughn R. Demont
19 books153 followersWriter, Scorpio, and self-professed waffle-addict, Vaughn R. Demont received his Bachelor of Arts from Oswego State University, and his Master of Fine Arts from Goddard College, where he studied Creative Writing and being poor. He has published several novelettes and novellas, including The Last Paladin series, House of Stone, the Broken Mirrors series, and the new Blackwarren Heists series.
Vaughn currently lives in Central New York, where he is working on his next novel.
Vaughn currently lives in Central New York, where he is working on his next novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
August 17, 2015
ready, steady, fuck me, go.
this book was shot out of a cannon directly into my fuckin' face.
i don't even know where to start; i'm completely flummoxed.
let's start with awesome. it was awesome. demont's strength is in crafting intricately balanced capers that draw upon about a thousand years of european fantasy lore to produce americana so vibrant and exciting i never know whether to whoop or get the lube.
and he is in fine form, here.
man, i have the only writeyboner for this guy.
the beginning's kinda bumpy, prose-wise; he makes some choices i wouldn't have, throughout; our hero is far, far cleverer than i can credit even in an urban fantasy.
but holy christ is this good shit.
i was by turns scandalized, aroused, creeped-out, vaguely squicked, and utterly, utterly amused.
*gets faraway look*
...yeah. shit gets real.
and real funny, too. charmingly greasy and hokey, like:
what do you call a blonde skeleton in a closet?
baddaboom, motherfuckers!
*goes to have slightly inappropriate and highly amusing sexorz with an arcane high school student*
this book was shot out of a cannon directly into my fuckin' face.
i don't even know where to start; i'm completely flummoxed.
let's start with awesome. it was awesome. demont's strength is in crafting intricately balanced capers that draw upon about a thousand years of european fantasy lore to produce americana so vibrant and exciting i never know whether to whoop or get the lube.
and he is in fine form, here.
man, i have the only writeyboner for this guy.
the beginning's kinda bumpy, prose-wise; he makes some choices i wouldn't have, throughout; our hero is far, far cleverer than i can credit even in an urban fantasy.
but holy christ is this good shit.
i was by turns scandalized, aroused, creeped-out, vaguely squicked, and utterly, utterly amused.
*gets faraway look*
...yeah. shit gets real.
and real funny, too. charmingly greasy and hokey, like:
what do you call a blonde skeleton in a closet?
baddaboom, motherfuckers!
*goes to have slightly inappropriate and highly amusing sexorz with an arcane high school student*
November 20, 2011
For those of you who are looking for a quick contemporary m/m romance: skip this.
Yes, the main character is attracted to men, but there's very little romance and Coyote's Creed is definitely urban fantasy. The plot and world building take the forefront.
And what a wonderfully original world it is: Fae and shifters, gods and sorcerers, feuds and fate and most importantly: tricks.
Spencer Crane is an 18 year old card swindler who's trying to divide his time between his cards, catatonic mother and detention. News about the death of his no good father turns his world upside down and suddenly it's like he's the star in his own horror movie.
I LOVED Spencer. Loved his dry tone narrative, his wit, his humor. Adored his hornines and his fear for zombies. Was touched by his love for his mother and his ability to grow. Spencer was a wonderful protagonist.
Besides him the story was filled with interesting secondaries with a certain toe stubbing Coyote as my favorite.
The plot was engaging and the world was certainly intriguing but at some parts I was thoroughly confused. And not only because Spencer is left in the dark, but also because it was just too much, too fast that too little of it made sense (I still don't get the importance of a Phouka king ). A few less "huh?"-moments and this book would have gotten a 5 star rating.
All in all: this story was an engaging and, most of all, fun read. I'm very much looking forward to the sequel.
Yes, the main character is attracted to men, but there's very little romance and Coyote's Creed is definitely urban fantasy. The plot and world building take the forefront.
And what a wonderfully original world it is: Fae and shifters, gods and sorcerers, feuds and fate and most importantly: tricks.
Spencer Crane is an 18 year old card swindler who's trying to divide his time between his cards, catatonic mother and detention. News about the death of his no good father turns his world upside down and suddenly it's like he's the star in his own horror movie.
I LOVED Spencer. Loved his dry tone narrative, his wit, his humor. Adored his hornines and his fear for zombies. Was touched by his love for his mother and his ability to grow. Spencer was a wonderful protagonist.
Besides him the story was filled with interesting secondaries with a certain toe stubbing Coyote as my favorite.
The plot was engaging and the world was certainly intriguing but at some parts I was thoroughly confused. And not only because Spencer is left in the dark, but also because it was just too much, too fast that too little of it made sense (I still don't get the importance of a Phouka king ). A few less "huh?"-moments and this book would have gotten a 5 star rating.
All in all: this story was an engaging and, most of all, fun read. I'm very much looking forward to the sequel.
July 4, 2024
Coyote's Creed
"Five, five, five, five, let's sing a song about five." that's from Sesame Street in case you aren't a fan of PBS. this book is easily five stars. It's hilariously funny, laugh out loud in some parts, and very clever. Spencer is a big TV addict and his life is filled with references to shows and, in particular, common tropes associated with plots and characters and action. He constantly refers to himself as the hero and what should happen to him, such as having amazing powers, when in reality he's convinced he's going to die and how that is just not fair.
A typical quote:
"I slumped in my seat. 'Thank God. I mean, I don't want to be the first to die. The funny guy always dies first, for shock value, you know? Rourke would get killed next, because it'd be a hero sacrifice or something.' I motion to Shiko. 'You'd live, though, unless you had sex.'"
Another time he's convinced he's going to die because as a half breed he's a minority, has had too much sex recently, he's walking through a cemetery alone under a full moon and is the funny guy of course. He just knows the zombies are waiting to kill him.
Spence tells his story talking to you the reader, saying things like he's not going to go into details about something because it's just embarrassing and you don't need to know. Or he'll share something's along the lines of him whimpering in the face of danger and then says something like, "Fuck you, you know you would, too." He knows he's not hero material, and he's teased by the other characters about being dumb, but he reads (Wikipedia has great synopses of books and it's reading, right?) and he's good at Scrabble he claims.
His reactions are normal and expected behavior except for his insane lust. He doesn't suddenly confess his undying love for his romantic partner as soon as they (early on) which is refreshing. There is a lot of jumping into bed and jumping intonthecback of cars and jumping to the floor for very hot (and informative) sex. (He explains the sensations and specifics of the first time he does each thing of gay sex. And he's bi! How many heroes are bi? Well my new hero is. )
The plot hinges on some science that is normally ignored in stories due to convenience. The realism in that regard is fabulous. He's a realistic teen boy, too, in many ways, always horny, lazy, smart ass, and convinced that the Zombie Apocalypse is likely because there is science proving its a possibility. And he takes care if his mom who is very ill. He even cries when people he loves are hurt or he's tripped or something, although he tries not to admit it.
I worried about the extreme difference in age and the sort of familial relationship they once had. But somehow it worked. I think removing the male/female dynamics and sexism helped and also that the younger guy is pretty much in control and somewhat using the older guy. He takes advantage of people but he knows this and does feel guilty about it. He tries to change with Rourke but he's a teenage boy and there's sex involved. Really hot sex, did I mention that? At one point I decided I was a gay man cleverly disguised. (Though I think I would have given myself fake breasts that were bigger than my real ones which have more in common with kiwis than melon. If this kind of thing makes you uncomfortable, don't read the book.)
I can't tell you how much I loved this book. It was one if the best books I've read in a long time. Highly recommended if you're good with explicit gay sex and hearing a teenage biy's innermost thoughts.
"Five, five, five, five, let's sing a song about five." that's from Sesame Street in case you aren't a fan of PBS. this book is easily five stars. It's hilariously funny, laugh out loud in some parts, and very clever. Spencer is a big TV addict and his life is filled with references to shows and, in particular, common tropes associated with plots and characters and action. He constantly refers to himself as the hero and what should happen to him, such as having amazing powers, when in reality he's convinced he's going to die and how that is just not fair.
A typical quote:
"I slumped in my seat. 'Thank God. I mean, I don't want to be the first to die. The funny guy always dies first, for shock value, you know? Rourke would get killed next, because it'd be a hero sacrifice or something.' I motion to Shiko. 'You'd live, though, unless you had sex.'"
Another time he's convinced he's going to die because as a half breed he's a minority, has had too much sex recently, he's walking through a cemetery alone under a full moon and is the funny guy of course. He just knows the zombies are waiting to kill him.
Spence tells his story talking to you the reader, saying things like he's not going to go into details about something because it's just embarrassing and you don't need to know. Or he'll share something's along the lines of him whimpering in the face of danger and then says something like, "Fuck you, you know you would, too." He knows he's not hero material, and he's teased by the other characters about being dumb, but he reads (Wikipedia has great synopses of books and it's reading, right?) and he's good at Scrabble he claims.
His reactions are normal and expected behavior except for his insane lust. He doesn't suddenly confess his undying love for his romantic partner as soon as they (early on) which is refreshing. There is a lot of jumping into bed and jumping intonthecback of cars and jumping to the floor for very hot (and informative) sex. (He explains the sensations and specifics of the first time he does each thing of gay sex. And he's bi! How many heroes are bi? Well my new hero is. )
The plot hinges on some science that is normally ignored in stories due to convenience. The realism in that regard is fabulous. He's a realistic teen boy, too, in many ways, always horny, lazy, smart ass, and convinced that the Zombie Apocalypse is likely because there is science proving its a possibility. And he takes care if his mom who is very ill. He even cries when people he loves are hurt or he's tripped or something, although he tries not to admit it.
I worried about the extreme difference in age and the sort of familial relationship they once had. But somehow it worked. I think removing the male/female dynamics and sexism helped and also that the younger guy is pretty much in control and somewhat using the older guy. He takes advantage of people but he knows this and does feel guilty about it. He tries to change with Rourke but he's a teenage boy and there's sex involved. Really hot sex, did I mention that? At one point I decided I was a gay man cleverly disguised. (Though I think I would have given myself fake breasts that were bigger than my real ones which have more in common with kiwis than melon. If this kind of thing makes you uncomfortable, don't read the book.)
I can't tell you how much I loved this book. It was one if the best books I've read in a long time. Highly recommended if you're good with explicit gay sex and hearing a teenage biy's innermost thoughts.
January 19, 2014
This is a really entertaining urban fantasy with a gay MC, and the beginnings of an interesting relationship. Spencer is eighteen, and taking care of himself and to some degree his mother. She fades in and out of normal life, sometimes withdrawing and unable to do more than get through eating and sleeping. He's been earning extra money by petty cons, card tricks and other ruses, and keeping their home life going while flunking school. But he suddenly is awoken to his true half-human nature, and to the wide-ranging and dangerous paranormal world around him.
I really liked Spencer's narrative voice, and I believed his youthful errors, his distractions (sometimes magical, sometimes sexual, sometimes just... Spencer) and the way he dealt with his changing life. At times the action and magic system didn't quite track for me. That may be a fault of my less than careful reading, rather than the story itself, but there is a degree of complexity that probably makes this a better read if you don't start it at midnight.
The secondary characters are very entertaining and interesting. The pantheon of creatures deviates from the standard weres-and-vampires, although those are named as also existing. The role of gods, of various levels of omniscience and power, adds interest although occasionally feels arbitrary.
Spencer's sexual relationship is with an old friend whom he had regarded as something of an uncle, but when the age gap consists of centuries, maybe millennia, then it ceases to concern me. Rourke is a Phouka, nearly immortal, and although there is also a real power imbalance (since he turns out to be royalty) his take on their relationship wasn't overly dominating. I really would have loved more of them together. I did love that Spencer didn't immediately declare undying love (well, at least, he didn't mean it.) At eighteen and with all the changes, it wouldn't have rung true. (I was disappointed though, to have the next book, which I immediately started, open two years later with a different MC.)
Worth reading, if you like urban fantasy, but don't go in looking for a true romance.
I really liked Spencer's narrative voice, and I believed his youthful errors, his distractions (sometimes magical, sometimes sexual, sometimes just... Spencer) and the way he dealt with his changing life. At times the action and magic system didn't quite track for me. That may be a fault of my less than careful reading, rather than the story itself, but there is a degree of complexity that probably makes this a better read if you don't start it at midnight.
The secondary characters are very entertaining and interesting. The pantheon of creatures deviates from the standard weres-and-vampires, although those are named as also existing. The role of gods, of various levels of omniscience and power, adds interest although occasionally feels arbitrary.
Spencer's sexual relationship is with an old friend whom he had regarded as something of an uncle, but when the age gap consists of centuries, maybe millennia, then it ceases to concern me. Rourke is a Phouka, nearly immortal, and although there is also a real power imbalance (since he turns out to be royalty) his take on their relationship wasn't overly dominating. I really would have loved more of them together. I did love that Spencer didn't immediately declare undying love (well, at least, he didn't mean it.) At eighteen and with all the changes, it wouldn't have rung true. (I was disappointed though, to have the next book, which I immediately started, open two years later with a different MC.)
Worth reading, if you like urban fantasy, but don't go in looking for a true romance.
January 4, 2014
You know what this story is? It's a giant ball of pure 100% Grade-A fun! The entertainment value alone is worth 4 stars. And Spencer's (the MC) voice is refreshing. The self-deprecating humor is unique and appealing. There is just something about breaking through the fourth wall that really appeals to me. Kinda like the in the movie Ferris Bueller. And c'mon, who DIDN'T like that movie?
I enjoyed the hell outta this book!
November 8, 2011
This one gets a 4.5 from me. It hit everything...humor, gods, sorcerers, worlds, Coyotes, Kitsune, Phouka, tricks, griftering, loss, betrayal, family - all of this in a contemporary setting.......I just really loved this book! Demont did an excellent job with Spencer - in all of the new learning he was doing, he never lost sight of who he was. He learned, adapted and remained true. I actually enjoyed the relationship between Rourke and I cannot wait to read more from this series.
March 15, 2016
Wonderful. Truly wonderful!
A massive thank you to Francesca for recommending this one to me. I will repay her for her excellent advice with at least three pints*.
*Note: I have not specified what will be in the pints, this book has thought me some things.
Urban Fantasy is one of my absolute favourite genres and when I stumbled into the wonder that is m/m I stopped reading so much of it. This week I realised just how much I missed discovering new worlds. Don’t get me wrong, I have read some really good fantasy m/m in the last year but it has been a long, long time since I was actually dreading the end of a book because I didn’t want to leave the world that I had just been introduced to. I’ve spent the last month rereading books that made me feel that way when I first read them and now I’ve found another one and I am overjoyed. Overjoyed I tell you!!
So where to begin?
Coyote’s Creed is set in a world that is full of tricksters and feuds. Everyone has an agenda and nothing is as it seems. Spencer Jensen Crain finds himself rather unceremoniously thrown into this world, this really very confusing world, and is expected to navigate it while having not one clue what is going on. We learn as Spencer learns and like Spencer sometimes I had no idea what was going on and who could be trusted. It was so much fun.
So what have we got?
He have the best of the tricksters is what we got!!
Father Coyote and his clan obviously.
”We aren’t criminals. Well, we are, but we’re the good kind!”
The Kitsune. My first contact with the foxes outside Teen Wolf.
”Bunch of uppity bastards who need more than one tail so they can hide the sticks they’ve got shoved up their asses.”
And the Fae, who in this come in the form of the Phouka.
“I rather miss the Dogs, personally. Absolute honesty can make for such intricate deception, don’t you find? A web of truths is so much harder to navigate, because you never know quite where you are.”
Spencer is half coyote and even though he is the greenest of green when it comes to this world he has more than one trick up his sleeve. I think Spencer is my new favourite (I really am very fickle). He is great at getting into trouble but when needed the Fates are on side to get him out of it. He has a way of getting people who shouldn't be helping him to help and he has a knack of getting people to talk. A knack that is way more important than you would think. But Spencer’s other half is human and that half makes him wholly unpredictable and also really sweet at times.
“May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home. May good and faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam. May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures. May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours.”
There is a lot going on in this book. You are being given a huge amount of information and only some of that information correlates to what you may think you know about the supernatural beings that are mentioned, so it means you have got to really pay attention, but for me it’s what made this so enjoyable to read. It kept me on my toes and I love when a new twist is added to stories that I’ve heard before.
”This world, after all, is not the dream of a sleeping child. In the stories I will tell of it, it will be a world that was a broken mirror, where a recluse forever danced toward a frozen river, and the Kitsune that will be in the world after this one will be the same foxes and yet different. So many worlds lie between that world of legend and this one, but some things have remained constant for the foxes. It will be up to you to discover which is which.”
Another winner for me in this was Rourke. I’m pretty sure the main reason is that he is Irish but also I love me a Fae character in books. I love that the Fae cannot lie because I find myself questioning absolutely everything they say, turning it around and around in my head trying to pick out what they are not saying. They are the most untrustworthy beings ever and they are so much fun to read.
Also have to say that I really liked the relationship between Rourke and Spencer. Controversial I know, but I’m not gonna lie, it was kinda hot. There. I said it.
More!! I want more. This series has royally screwed up my bank holiday reading plans. James is up next and by the sounds of things it will be sans Spencer but there will be sorcerers so SCORE!!
“When a trickster pulls an Emerald in the Snow, a Ra’keth accepts a truth which terrifies them more than anything.”
“Uh…their power?”
“No. Their humanity.”
dnf
January 2, 2015DNF at 56%
I was able to push myself until half-way through the book when I realized, heck, I didn't bloody care about these characters or storyline, so why should I continue? I think I have read enough urban fantasy / paranormal series to know what works for me and what doesn't. This one falls into the latter.
The whole world built and the idea of the Coyotes, Dogs, Foxes, and the Feud didn't grab me. I thought it was rather confusing and I found my eyes glazing over through the explanations and the 'tales' that Roarke was telling. I also thought that there were too many detours in order to get the quest -- of Spencer getting the urn.
I couldn't connect to the characters nor the writing -- maybe it is excellent for others but to me, it's just not as sharp and clear as I prefer it to be. Plus, I couldn't care less about an 18-year-old who seemed to just get so horny ever since he 'opened up' about his true self.
Oh, and the whole age gap with the 'uncle' thing? At first I wasn't bothered with it, because it is the kind of context in a urban fantasy/paranormal series that is acceptable (since Roarke is quite old) but then I found out about Roarke and that was just too icky for me.
So first DNF book of 2015. Sorry, Didi! As always, any DNF book will not be rated.
I was able to push myself until half-way through the book when I realized, heck, I didn't bloody care about these characters or storyline, so why should I continue? I think I have read enough urban fantasy / paranormal series to know what works for me and what doesn't. This one falls into the latter.
The whole world built and the idea of the Coyotes, Dogs, Foxes, and the Feud didn't grab me. I thought it was rather confusing and I found my eyes glazing over through the explanations and the 'tales' that Roarke was telling. I also thought that there were too many detours in order to get the quest -- of Spencer getting the urn.
I couldn't connect to the characters nor the writing -- maybe it is excellent for others but to me, it's just not as sharp and clear as I prefer it to be. Plus, I couldn't care less about an 18-year-old who seemed to just get so horny ever since he 'opened up' about his true self.
Oh, and the whole age gap with the 'uncle' thing? At first I wasn't bothered with it, because it is the kind of context in a urban fantasy/paranormal series that is acceptable (since Roarke is quite old) but then I found out about Roarke and that was just too icky for me.
So first DNF book of 2015. Sorry, Didi! As always, any DNF book will not be rated.
February 27, 2014
2.5 stars
Initially, this feels like a waking dream. Spencer, a teen-aged con in the making, has just learned his dead-beat dad has died, and all sorts of ‘other’ family history is made known to him. His eyes are opened, so to speak, to a world of supers, a different kind of coming of age. And the reader makes these discoveries along with Spencer since this is told through his POV.
All this discovery is aided by ‘uncle’ Rourke who quickly becomes ‘just Rourke’ when Spencer makes a discovery of his own… lately, his pants tent freely whenever Rourke’s around.
“… all of it was because I was too distracted by your chest hair.”
I like Spencer, even though I’m not completely feeling his story. It could be the first person narrative which is used to describe this world. It could be how Spencer repeatedly asks questions to those around him, trying to figure out what the heck is going on, only to be rebuffed or distracted from the answers that the reader wants to know too. Or... the scene fades to black just before the big answer is about to unfold, or Spenser gets distracted by something else… No fair, it’s a style of storytelling that I find frustrating.
But Spenser is pretty cool. He is a self-conscious, TV generation kid, always comparing his life to a sitcom or Bond movie, wondering how he matches up to the hero. So what if he sometimes reads a little mature for an eighteen-year-old? So what if he’s failing out of high school but he speaks with SAT vocab? He’s got a lot on his plate, he’s been around the block with the whole grifting thing, he’s figuring out the whole super being thing, and he’s got moxie. In spades.
I wouldn’t call this a romance and I guess that’s why I’m sorta lukewarm to it. It’s more an urban fantasy with some erotica thrown in, what with all the free-flowing randiness without love thing (for Spencer, I think it’s the grifting that gets him the horniest). It’s so hard to rate this… some things worked, some didn’t. In the end, I wasn’t especially in love with this world or its delivery.
February 7, 2016
Full reviewage on Prism Book Alliance®
Let me spell out the challenge this book presents in terms of review: by chapter three, I knew it was going to be quite a feat to somehow give you a sense of what this story is all about and avoid spoilers at the same time. The way this whole ride begins, the set-up, caused my jaw to drop while a grin formed, and this happened I don’t know how many times. Sparkling storytelling and wondrously wily writing are the solid rails upon which this train keeps a rollin’ along, adjusting speed and always moving forward.
The voice is muffled through the door, but I’m very aware of where I am now. The door opens, dim light eking into the room at a merciful pace.
Magical word mixology, yo. I just wanted to give you a wee bitty taste. You don’t yet know the hundredth of it. ;)
The world building is colorful, surefooted, every nook and cranny filled in, all of it resulting in a place that feels lived in, used, saddled with centuries-old customs and yet holds promise for refreshingly unexpected change and possibility, good or bad.
The same is true for the characters, this mix of creature/shifter/human/I-don’t-even-know-what-you-are types that coexist and collide, sometimes in secret, sometimes not so much. Their attitudes, their roles in creating the changing atmospheres and scenery, with every personality unmistakable, and there are quite a few of them. Cheeky, clever, funny, poignant, dastardly, downright evil, blinded by greed or the belief in destined rewards, some see the forest and some can’t even navigate around a tree without being stymied. Lawdy, this was fun. :D
This is also one of the best examples of first person point of view storytelling. The partnership between the author and our man (sometimes man-child) Spence hooked me, drew me right in, and kept me, close, for the entire time. Spencer is observant, energetic, horny, intelligent, empathetic, skeptical, and sometimes surprised by the things he finds out about himself. He makes it possible to see beyond his own view of the myriad events, relationships, lies, surprises, and plans throughout this story.
I love the mix of modern City living with what feels like old world governed rules and hierarchies built into the history of this world, supernatural and regular folk alike. The recognizable touchstones of the modern make me feel like a part of the supernatural which, yeah, uh huh, FUN.
… thanks to the conversation with Shiko, my brain is overfocused on favorite lines from “The Princess Bride”. Damn it, why did that have to be such a quotable movie?
Poor Spence often finds himself quoting TV shows and other cultural references. Sometimes they save him, sometimes, well, he ends up having to wing it. I like a guy who can wing it, or at least tries.
The chemistry and humor, the lust and caring, and the excitement and gentleness twixt Spencer and Rourke make for an interesting examination of an unexpected connection. Or is it? Unexpected, I mean. ;) Their relationship goes through organic ups and downs, most of the time due to everything I’ve already described here. Needless to say, ‘boring’ is not ever a word I would suggest in describing them.
I don’t read a lot of stories with leads who are 18, as our man Spencer is, as many of them forget the adult side of the equation of someone at that age. Yep, they often struggle for control over their new adult lives but they sometimes manage to do it, and that is on full display here. Don’t get me wrong, Spence often flails back and forth across the line between childhood and adulthood, but he tries and sometimes succeeds, his journey nonstop – yep, you guessed it – FUN. Which isn’t to say that this story is without darker moments, loss, difficult change and even more difficult choices, because they play their roles, too.
The twists, they keep a’comin’! All the way to the very end. Heh!
There are a few instances, some scenes, where I was like whoa Nelly, what just happened? The details were coming fast and furious without helpful context, history, or immediate follow-up. This is consistent with the approach in this storytelling which made me feel fully involved, except for these rare moments when I had to stop and let the dust settle.
But never mind that because, really, none of those lessened my utter satiation from experiencing this story through Spencer’s heart and mind and, dare I say it, soul.
One of my favorite lines:
”Oh God, this is how the zombie apocalypse starts.” Damn it, I should’ve paid more attention to Romero.
This is one of hundreds of examples of why this is a timeless story. Seriously. The references are endless and always warranted, their origins from all decades. More fun for me. Shocker, I know. :D
This is a complex world with untold (or told, really, by many, many people) centuries-long feuds, clans with connections and relationships that would make any family tree maker tremble in fear, and an 18-yr old who seems to have been forced into the middle of it all, like a newly discovered planet, so bright and full of potential and danger and energy. I was the embodiment of ceaseless curiosity while reading. See how that works? Brilliant.
ETA: A Recommended Read on PBA for December 2015
Let me spell out the challenge this book presents in terms of review: by chapter three, I knew it was going to be quite a feat to somehow give you a sense of what this story is all about and avoid spoilers at the same time. The way this whole ride begins, the set-up, caused my jaw to drop while a grin formed, and this happened I don’t know how many times. Sparkling storytelling and wondrously wily writing are the solid rails upon which this train keeps a rollin’ along, adjusting speed and always moving forward.
The voice is muffled through the door, but I’m very aware of where I am now. The door opens, dim light eking into the room at a merciful pace.
Magical word mixology, yo. I just wanted to give you a wee bitty taste. You don’t yet know the hundredth of it. ;)
The world building is colorful, surefooted, every nook and cranny filled in, all of it resulting in a place that feels lived in, used, saddled with centuries-old customs and yet holds promise for refreshingly unexpected change and possibility, good or bad.
The same is true for the characters, this mix of creature/shifter/human/I-don’t-even-know-what-you-are types that coexist and collide, sometimes in secret, sometimes not so much. Their attitudes, their roles in creating the changing atmospheres and scenery, with every personality unmistakable, and there are quite a few of them. Cheeky, clever, funny, poignant, dastardly, downright evil, blinded by greed or the belief in destined rewards, some see the forest and some can’t even navigate around a tree without being stymied. Lawdy, this was fun. :D
This is also one of the best examples of first person point of view storytelling. The partnership between the author and our man (sometimes man-child) Spence hooked me, drew me right in, and kept me, close, for the entire time. Spencer is observant, energetic, horny, intelligent, empathetic, skeptical, and sometimes surprised by the things he finds out about himself. He makes it possible to see beyond his own view of the myriad events, relationships, lies, surprises, and plans throughout this story.
I love the mix of modern City living with what feels like old world governed rules and hierarchies built into the history of this world, supernatural and regular folk alike. The recognizable touchstones of the modern make me feel like a part of the supernatural which, yeah, uh huh, FUN.
… thanks to the conversation with Shiko, my brain is overfocused on favorite lines from “The Princess Bride”. Damn it, why did that have to be such a quotable movie?
Poor Spence often finds himself quoting TV shows and other cultural references. Sometimes they save him, sometimes, well, he ends up having to wing it. I like a guy who can wing it, or at least tries.
The chemistry and humor, the lust and caring, and the excitement and gentleness twixt Spencer and Rourke make for an interesting examination of an unexpected connection. Or is it? Unexpected, I mean. ;) Their relationship goes through organic ups and downs, most of the time due to everything I’ve already described here. Needless to say, ‘boring’ is not ever a word I would suggest in describing them.
I don’t read a lot of stories with leads who are 18, as our man Spencer is, as many of them forget the adult side of the equation of someone at that age. Yep, they often struggle for control over their new adult lives but they sometimes manage to do it, and that is on full display here. Don’t get me wrong, Spence often flails back and forth across the line between childhood and adulthood, but he tries and sometimes succeeds, his journey nonstop – yep, you guessed it – FUN. Which isn’t to say that this story is without darker moments, loss, difficult change and even more difficult choices, because they play their roles, too.
The twists, they keep a’comin’! All the way to the very end. Heh!
There are a few instances, some scenes, where I was like whoa Nelly, what just happened? The details were coming fast and furious without helpful context, history, or immediate follow-up. This is consistent with the approach in this storytelling which made me feel fully involved, except for these rare moments when I had to stop and let the dust settle.
But never mind that because, really, none of those lessened my utter satiation from experiencing this story through Spencer’s heart and mind and, dare I say it, soul.
One of my favorite lines:
”Oh God, this is how the zombie apocalypse starts.” Damn it, I should’ve paid more attention to Romero.
This is one of hundreds of examples of why this is a timeless story. Seriously. The references are endless and always warranted, their origins from all decades. More fun for me. Shocker, I know. :D
This is a complex world with untold (or told, really, by many, many people) centuries-long feuds, clans with connections and relationships that would make any family tree maker tremble in fear, and an 18-yr old who seems to have been forced into the middle of it all, like a newly discovered planet, so bright and full of potential and danger and energy. I was the embodiment of ceaseless curiosity while reading. See how that works? Brilliant.
ETA: A Recommended Read on PBA for December 2015
October 22, 2015
10/05/15 -- I just reread this book in preparation for finally reading the rest of the series, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first time. Fast, funny, sexy, and intricate. Great entertainment!
My original review from 1/26/13:
Man, I love this book. This is SUCH a fun book.
This sentence, though, had me really chuckling:
"“Did he or did he not try to stab you with the Bloom of Hasseth so that he could feed your soul to the Crevasse of Screaming Diamonds and in return find the Finger of Guk’san?”
LOL!
Not just one, but THREE different trickster races inhabit this book. Understandably, then, there are non-stop double and triple and quadruple crossing, long and short and medium cons, tricks and riddles and conundrums and just about every kind of puzzle you can think of. Not to mention never-ending references to TV and movie and general pop-cultural tropes, and at least one zombie. Good stuff.
I can't even think of anything to complain about -- and y'all know how I love to complain. This book is fast, witty, intelligent, snarky, entertaining, and keeps you glued to the page. I can't even complain about the use of present tense, and that usually irritates the heck outta me. In this case, though, it just enhances the immediacy and driving force of the narrative voice.
This has a few very sexy scenes in it (plus a whole lot of sex that happens off screen), but it should NOT be confused with a romance novel. This is urban fantasy with sex. If you like urban fantasy, if you like intelligent and witty writing, and if you feel like having a good time, you should check this out. My only fear is that the next book in the series can't possibly be this good, since its main character will be a sorcerer rather than a trickster. But I'll be reading it anyway.
This gets a happy 4.5 stars from me. If the sequel is as good as this one, I may have to raise the rating here up to 5 to reward consistency in excellence.
My original review from 1/26/13:
Man, I love this book. This is SUCH a fun book.
This sentence, though, had me really chuckling:
"“Did he or did he not try to stab you with the Bloom of Hasseth so that he could feed your soul to the Crevasse of Screaming Diamonds and in return find the Finger of Guk’san?”
LOL!
Not just one, but THREE different trickster races inhabit this book. Understandably, then, there are non-stop double and triple and quadruple crossing, long and short and medium cons, tricks and riddles and conundrums and just about every kind of puzzle you can think of. Not to mention never-ending references to TV and movie and general pop-cultural tropes, and at least one zombie. Good stuff.
I can't even think of anything to complain about -- and y'all know how I love to complain. This book is fast, witty, intelligent, snarky, entertaining, and keeps you glued to the page. I can't even complain about the use of present tense, and that usually irritates the heck outta me. In this case, though, it just enhances the immediacy and driving force of the narrative voice.
This has a few very sexy scenes in it (plus a whole lot of sex that happens off screen), but it should NOT be confused with a romance novel. This is urban fantasy with sex. If you like urban fantasy, if you like intelligent and witty writing, and if you feel like having a good time, you should check this out. My only fear is that the next book in the series can't possibly be this good, since its main character will be a sorcerer rather than a trickster. But I'll be reading it anyway.
This gets a happy 4.5 stars from me. If the sequel is as good as this one, I may have to raise the rating here up to 5 to reward consistency in excellence.
February 2, 2013
EDIT: That's not true! I lied shamelessly. I don't care about what happens next. The setting was very enjoyable and it was a fun read, but if I couldn't connect with the characters and didn't love the writing, why would I read the sequel? Many people liked it even less than this one. I can't imagine how it would possibly be better, and if I can read great books, I'm certainly not going to settle for average ones.
i am preplexed. this could have been so much better, but there were things that didn't make sense, things that weren't explained, characters (rourke! argh! die!) i didn't like - at all.
but i am also quite intrigued and curious as to where this might go in the next books and if the love story in lightning rod will convince me as this one didn't.
recommended for its originality and a few funny one-liners.
i am preplexed. this could have been so much better, but there were things that didn't make sense, things that weren't explained, characters (rourke! argh! die!) i didn't like - at all.
but i am also quite intrigued and curious as to where this might go in the next books and if the love story in lightning rod will convince me as this one didn't.
recommended for its originality and a few funny one-liners.
December 2, 2012
This novel is far from perfect but it has that unmistakable quality that keeps one awake at night to finish it.
After "House of Stone" I was expecting quite a lot from Mr Demont and he did not disappoint me.
Gone are the usual M/M romances, usually written by women, with their childish conflicts and impossibly conflicted characters.
Gone are the closeted gay men who suddenly discover they are falling hard for a dark, brooding, impossibly gorgeous vampire/werewolf/werecat/were-I-don't-know-what.
Gone are all the stereotypes that clutter most of M/M stuff, be they fantasy, romance or horror.
Last but not least, gone are the very short unsatisfying novellas sold for 6, 8, 10 or more dollars.
The general setting of this new series is the same as that of House of Stone, even if none of those characters appears here: it is just the same unidentified American city where any possible kind of supernatural creature lives side by side with unaware humans.
Spencer is an eighteen-year-old boy, struggling to make the several loose threads in his life meet until he discovers the non human world of which he is part, being a half blood, a discovery that plunges him in further trouble, headfirst.
The author manages to set a breathtaking rhythm that never falters: every single page is packed with events that flow unerringly; the pacing is perfect and keeps the reader thrilled with exactly the right amount of humour (often very dumb humour), romance and adventure. The writing is perfect in that it never hinders the fast flowing of the plot; the language is informal, easy, proficient.
Spencer is adorable. At first I was disappointed: it is hard for me to relate with someone so young, so different, so ravenous in his indiscriminating bi-sexual appetites; the main character of House of Stone was much closer to me. As pages flew by I came to love him, though. He is funny but not shallow, smart but not perfect, well aware of his shortcomings and often uncapable of avoiding mistakes he is perfectly aware he is making.
The other characters are less developped but act as an accomplished chorus for him.
Spencer's sexual drive is an essential theme of this work.
There are some extremely graphic sex scenes: they are very well done and I enjoyed them but they could put off other readers.
What flaws there are, are minor. The supernatural lore is quite vague, a device that Mr Demont sometimes exploits to create sudden plot twists that are not completely convincing. There are some godlike creatures who play a relevant role in speeding the plot to its end; I never could stomach gods in fantasy novels and, despite Mr Demont's skill, they were an unwelcome addition in this novel as well.
Spencer CONSTANTLY breaks the fourth wall to relay his thoughts to the reader. I did not find it objectionable but some readers might.
What I did find objectionable is that in doing so Spencer is occasionally wise beyond his years, meaning that we are catching a glimpse of the author's thoughts and not of those of a fictional eighteen-year-old character.
I mentioned what I consider to be flaws for the sake of a fully informative review but I feel I can recommend this book to anyone (gay or not) who loves fantasy novels. Despite the sex scenes I consider it suitable for older teens as well.
Now my expectations are really high and I hope Mr Demont will be able to deliver accordingly. In the meantime, let us enjoy this ride.
After "House of Stone" I was expecting quite a lot from Mr Demont and he did not disappoint me.
Gone are the usual M/M romances, usually written by women, with their childish conflicts and impossibly conflicted characters.
Gone are the closeted gay men who suddenly discover they are falling hard for a dark, brooding, impossibly gorgeous vampire/werewolf/werecat/were-I-don't-know-what.
Gone are all the stereotypes that clutter most of M/M stuff, be they fantasy, romance or horror.
Last but not least, gone are the very short unsatisfying novellas sold for 6, 8, 10 or more dollars.
The general setting of this new series is the same as that of House of Stone, even if none of those characters appears here: it is just the same unidentified American city where any possible kind of supernatural creature lives side by side with unaware humans.
Spencer is an eighteen-year-old boy, struggling to make the several loose threads in his life meet until he discovers the non human world of which he is part, being a half blood, a discovery that plunges him in further trouble, headfirst.
The author manages to set a breathtaking rhythm that never falters: every single page is packed with events that flow unerringly; the pacing is perfect and keeps the reader thrilled with exactly the right amount of humour (often very dumb humour), romance and adventure. The writing is perfect in that it never hinders the fast flowing of the plot; the language is informal, easy, proficient.
Spencer is adorable. At first I was disappointed: it is hard for me to relate with someone so young, so different, so ravenous in his indiscriminating bi-sexual appetites; the main character of House of Stone was much closer to me. As pages flew by I came to love him, though. He is funny but not shallow, smart but not perfect, well aware of his shortcomings and often uncapable of avoiding mistakes he is perfectly aware he is making.
The other characters are less developped but act as an accomplished chorus for him.
Spencer's sexual drive is an essential theme of this work.
There are some extremely graphic sex scenes: they are very well done and I enjoyed them but they could put off other readers.
What flaws there are, are minor. The supernatural lore is quite vague, a device that Mr Demont sometimes exploits to create sudden plot twists that are not completely convincing. There are some godlike creatures who play a relevant role in speeding the plot to its end; I never could stomach gods in fantasy novels and, despite Mr Demont's skill, they were an unwelcome addition in this novel as well.
Spencer CONSTANTLY breaks the fourth wall to relay his thoughts to the reader. I did not find it objectionable but some readers might.
What I did find objectionable is that in doing so Spencer is occasionally wise beyond his years, meaning that we are catching a glimpse of the author's thoughts and not of those of a fictional eighteen-year-old character.
I mentioned what I consider to be flaws for the sake of a fully informative review but I feel I can recommend this book to anyone (gay or not) who loves fantasy novels. Despite the sex scenes I consider it suitable for older teens as well.
Now my expectations are really high and I hope Mr Demont will be able to deliver accordingly. In the meantime, let us enjoy this ride.
February 6, 2014
Spencer Crain is an 18 year old high school senior. He's bright but he is barely getting by in school due to his lack of attendance. In Spencer's defense he has a lot going on as he tries to care for and support his nearly catatonic, mentally ill mother. Spencer's father has been long gone and his only male role model is his "Uncle Roarke". Roarke was a good friend of Spencer's father and has helped guide him as he has grown up.
One day while Spencer sits in study hall Roarke shows up to tell him that the father that he never knew has died. Oh and that Spencer is a Coyote shifter and he needs to speak for his father at the funeral. Spencer's world is immediately thrown into chaos. He is now part of a world filled with magic and tricksters and politics he does not understand. Spencer also finds out that he is not as alone as he always thought he was as he has half siblings. Most of them are not very nice.
The world building in this book was complex and there was a lot going on in this story. There were a lot of characters and a complicated plot line. I often felt as confused as Spencer did while trying to figure out who was who and what role they played in the story. I found myself having to go back and read some sections over again to try to understand what was happening.
While I found this frustrating I may have been able to work around this. I usually always give the first book in an urban fantasy series a lot of leeway because sometimes the most complicated worlds end up being good in future books. This book though had a major flaw for me that I could not get past.
My issue was the relationship between Spencer and his "Uncle Roarke". We first meet Roarke when he's picking Spencer up from study hall. It's explained that he is in his 50's and has been a pivotal male role model for Spencer. A few scenes later Spencer and Roake are having sex together. No! No, no, no! I could get over the age difference (although there was an ick factor to that) but I could not get over the pseudo incest. While they were not blood related "Uncle Roarke" had always been in Spencer's life in a fictive kin role. That coupled with the imbalance of power (Roarke is apparently a very old and powerful king while Spencer is a high school senior) took this story to a place I could not follow. Well at least not happily.
Between the confusing world building and this relationship issue I did not enjoy this book at all. I would like to note that I also have an issue with the fact that neither the author nor the publisher felt the need to make a warning note regarding the pseudo incest. While I believe an author has the right to write about anything they want I think that we readers deserve a warning on controversial topics such as non-consensual sex, incest, sexual kinks, etc so that we can make an informed choice in what we choose to read. With a simple warning the author/publisher could have saved themselves a bad review and saved this reader from wanting to wash my eyes out with bleach
One day while Spencer sits in study hall Roarke shows up to tell him that the father that he never knew has died. Oh and that Spencer is a Coyote shifter and he needs to speak for his father at the funeral. Spencer's world is immediately thrown into chaos. He is now part of a world filled with magic and tricksters and politics he does not understand. Spencer also finds out that he is not as alone as he always thought he was as he has half siblings. Most of them are not very nice.
The world building in this book was complex and there was a lot going on in this story. There were a lot of characters and a complicated plot line. I often felt as confused as Spencer did while trying to figure out who was who and what role they played in the story. I found myself having to go back and read some sections over again to try to understand what was happening.
While I found this frustrating I may have been able to work around this. I usually always give the first book in an urban fantasy series a lot of leeway because sometimes the most complicated worlds end up being good in future books. This book though had a major flaw for me that I could not get past.
My issue was the relationship between Spencer and his "Uncle Roarke". We first meet Roarke when he's picking Spencer up from study hall. It's explained that he is in his 50's and has been a pivotal male role model for Spencer. A few scenes later Spencer and Roake are having sex together. No! No, no, no! I could get over the age difference (although there was an ick factor to that) but I could not get over the pseudo incest. While they were not blood related "Uncle Roarke" had always been in Spencer's life in a fictive kin role. That coupled with the imbalance of power (Roarke is apparently a very old and powerful king while Spencer is a high school senior) took this story to a place I could not follow. Well at least not happily.
Between the confusing world building and this relationship issue I did not enjoy this book at all. I would like to note that I also have an issue with the fact that neither the author nor the publisher felt the need to make a warning note regarding the pseudo incest. While I believe an author has the right to write about anything they want I think that we readers deserve a warning on controversial topics such as non-consensual sex, incest, sexual kinks, etc so that we can make an informed choice in what we choose to read. With a simple warning the author/publisher could have saved themselves a bad review and saved this reader from wanting to wash my eyes out with bleach
July 26, 2015
3.5 Stars
All my love for this book is because of Spencer. His narration sucked me right in. He's a witty smart-ass that has a line for everything. Add to this his love for tv and movie troupes, his fear of the impending zombie apocalypse, and you have one funny and adorable mc.
This was a unique world full of tricksters, story-tellers, and a feud that has been going on for several hundred years with Spencer smack in the middle of it all. In the beginning I was bored, and at times confused. I thought the entire idea of Spencer's little "assignment" as the Speaker took up too much time and dragged. After the 40% - 50% mark the book really took off and the last 15%, was freakin fantastic!
I wish there was more explanation of what each of these races could do and the powers they possess. It was too obscure for my liking. I also didn't fully grasp the importance of the story-telling. We were told how important it was and saw firsthand the power of these stories, but it just didn't resonate that strongly with me. For the most part, I let go of these issues and concentrated on Spencer.
Of note: this is UF through and through, not a romance. There is also a very large age difference between the mc's. Rourke This may bother some readers.
All my love for this book is because of Spencer. His narration sucked me right in. He's a witty smart-ass that has a line for everything. Add to this his love for tv and movie troupes, his fear of the impending zombie apocalypse, and you have one funny and adorable mc.
This was a unique world full of tricksters, story-tellers, and a feud that has been going on for several hundred years with Spencer smack in the middle of it all. In the beginning I was bored, and at times confused. I thought the entire idea of Spencer's little "assignment" as the Speaker took up too much time and dragged. After the 40% - 50% mark the book really took off and the last 15%, was freakin fantastic!
I wish there was more explanation of what each of these races could do and the powers they possess. It was too obscure for my liking. I also didn't fully grasp the importance of the story-telling. We were told how important it was and saw firsthand the power of these stories, but it just didn't resonate that strongly with me. For the most part, I let go of these issues and concentrated on Spencer.
Of note: this is UF through and through, not a romance. There is also a very large age difference between the mc's. Rourke This may bother some readers.
September 29, 2013
I find myself without the words needed to describe this story. It was amazingly detailed and clever. The world-building was outstanding. The MC's sense of humor was a combo of sarcasm and quick wit with a ton of music and TV references all thrown into the pot and coming out funny. And Spence's inordinate fear of zombies lent a sense of bizarre humor to the already convoluted craziness going on. Other than all that, I just can't describe the story itself. It has to be read to be believed. Definitely a complex fantasy adventure worth reading.
October 7, 2013
It's weird. Often it feels like the characters are performing to camera, which makes you too aware of the fourth wall.
It gets more engaging later, even if the overall thing is a workout for your suspension of disbelief.
My eyes kind of glazed over when they were explicating on background and history and whatever and whatnot.
The grammar could use some love. Comma splices, odd turns of phrase, sentences that no matter how I read them, feel like they should be questions (and are missing commas)...
It's also got these lines that, after the 3rd, 5th, 8th time it's used, it stops becoming an interesting line and a stupid gimmick. There's quite a bit of repetition in this, actually. It gets annoying, like, "Dude. That joke stopped being funny the second time you retold it." It's what small children do when they elicit a response. They keep telling it over and over hoping for the same response, blissfully unaware as they are of the law of diminishing returns.
Hmm...Perhaps it's a case of over-lampshading. That only works with comedies, parodies, or satire, such as with Community. In this, where the author's trying to be serious, it instead challenges our suspension of disbelief until our tolerance is worn thin. We become, as a result, too aware of the fourth wall and the fact that the characters are playing out roles, instead of us observing as their lives played out.
It's annoying because MC thinks he's all that.
That ass isn't funny, and yes, he's got MC power, but he's not likeable and he makes no effort to be likeable, yet this ass keeps thinking he's extremely likable. By about 60% into it, I'm so over it there's nothing left to find endearing.
There are good lines, but they're exactly that: lines. I mean, I can spout lines, but that doesn't mean they're completely sincere or ingenuous. And neither are the lines MC (what's his name again?) touts.
Also, the author made the Fates Norse. Maiden, matron, crone. That's actually more Neo-Pagan than anything, but it's more often associated with the Norns than the Moirai, which are generally all matrons.
You know what? I get it. I get why Spence is such an ass. Deep pain down inside and all that. That doesn't keep him from being an ass and me from disliking him for being such an ass. Not saying he has to be different to be worthy of empathy. I'm just saying that he's an ass, and really, the only character I care about is poor Rourke.
His characterization also seems rather vague and with at least one foot into the realm of Mary-Sue-dom.
*sigh
I didn't like the ending. That epilogue *shudders
I feel like with different characters - or a different character focus - I would have liked this book. Not that anyone else could have been MC.
I might read on for Rourke, though.
It gets more engaging later, even if the overall thing is a workout for your suspension of disbelief.
My eyes kind of glazed over when they were explicating on background and history and whatever and whatnot.
The grammar could use some love. Comma splices, odd turns of phrase, sentences that no matter how I read them, feel like they should be questions (and are missing commas)...
It's also got these lines that, after the 3rd, 5th, 8th time it's used, it stops becoming an interesting line and a stupid gimmick. There's quite a bit of repetition in this, actually. It gets annoying, like, "Dude. That joke stopped being funny the second time you retold it." It's what small children do when they elicit a response. They keep telling it over and over hoping for the same response, blissfully unaware as they are of the law of diminishing returns.
Hmm...Perhaps it's a case of over-lampshading. That only works with comedies, parodies, or satire, such as with Community. In this, where the author's trying to be serious, it instead challenges our suspension of disbelief until our tolerance is worn thin. We become, as a result, too aware of the fourth wall and the fact that the characters are playing out roles, instead of us observing as their lives played out.
It's annoying because MC thinks he's all that.
That ass isn't funny, and yes, he's got MC power, but he's not likeable and he makes no effort to be likeable, yet this ass keeps thinking he's extremely likable. By about 60% into it, I'm so over it there's nothing left to find endearing.
There are good lines, but they're exactly that: lines. I mean, I can spout lines, but that doesn't mean they're completely sincere or ingenuous. And neither are the lines MC (what's his name again?) touts.
Also, the author made the Fates Norse. Maiden, matron, crone. That's actually more Neo-Pagan than anything, but it's more often associated with the Norns than the Moirai, which are generally all matrons.
You know what? I get it. I get why Spence is such an ass. Deep pain down inside and all that. That doesn't keep him from being an ass and me from disliking him for being such an ass. Not saying he has to be different to be worthy of empathy. I'm just saying that he's an ass, and really, the only character I care about is poor Rourke.
His characterization also seems rather vague and with at least one foot into the realm of Mary-Sue-dom.
*sigh
I didn't like the ending. That epilogue *shudders
I feel like with different characters - or a different character focus - I would have liked this book. Not that anyone else could have been MC.
I might read on for Rourke, though.
November 6, 2011
4.5 stars
Coyote's Creed is one of those books you have to read reaaaaly slowly or read it twice to catch all the finer points of tricks, connections, references, jokes, etc. Since I wasn't able to slow down, I guess I'll have to read it (at least) twice. ^^ So, you can take this as a preliminary rating (and review), based on my first, very speedy reading.
Demont creates a very original and complicated world of trickster clans and Spencer, our protagonist, is thrown headlong into it. Spencer is in many ways a typical teenager - smartass, educated by TV tropes, horny, but also bright and so well-grounded in contemporary world that nothing truly shocks him. As we learn about this world along with Spencer, we also meet many wonderful (and not so wonderful) characters, including Roarke, Shiko (I didn't see that particular info about her at the end coming), Father Coyote, Fate(s), etc.
I've seen some readers taking issue with the age difference between Spencer and Rourke. If this was, you know, contemporary story, I might have too (depending on how the relationship was dealt with). But, since it wasn't, it made me wonder if they stopped reading the vampire stories. Because, although most of them are described as young and sexy, they really aren't - they are several hundred years older then their human pairs. Rourke isn't a vampire, but he isn't human either - he doesn't even know how old he is. Or, maybe, it wasn't the age, but the entire "uncle" thing. But, I won't make the argument by getting into the entire daddy kink either. XD What I'm saying is - I, kind of, liked this thing between Spencer and Roarke. And, it's a "thing" in progress - Spencer is so very young and he has to sow some wild oats. But, the Phouka ("Dogs") can't lie and Roarke did say he loved him, so I hope there will come the time when they become more than roommates with benefits. Not that benefits weren't hot, because, yup, they were. ^^
There is a lot of humor in the book that goes hand in hand with Spencer's character and the world, but not everything is fun and games - the resolution of situation with Spencer's mom was true to the world of tricksters, but very sad nonetheless. There are some story threads that need explaining and some that were obviously paving the way for the sequel. All in all, this is a well-plotted, imaginative story with a great protagonist and exciting world-building. The sequel can't come fast enough. Highly recommended.
For more detailed (and spot-on) review, I recommend Raine's review, that can be found here.
And, I forgot to comment - that's one awesome cover! :)
Coyote's Creed is one of those books you have to read reaaaaly slowly or read it twice to catch all the finer points of tricks, connections, references, jokes, etc. Since I wasn't able to slow down, I guess I'll have to read it (at least) twice. ^^ So, you can take this as a preliminary rating (and review), based on my first, very speedy reading.
Demont creates a very original and complicated world of trickster clans and Spencer, our protagonist, is thrown headlong into it. Spencer is in many ways a typical teenager - smartass, educated by TV tropes, horny, but also bright and so well-grounded in contemporary world that nothing truly shocks him. As we learn about this world along with Spencer, we also meet many wonderful (and not so wonderful) characters, including Roarke, Shiko (I didn't see that particular info about her at the end coming), Father Coyote, Fate(s), etc.
I've seen some readers taking issue with the age difference between Spencer and Rourke. If this was, you know, contemporary story, I might have too (depending on how the relationship was dealt with). But, since it wasn't, it made me wonder if they stopped reading the vampire stories. Because, although most of them are described as young and sexy, they really aren't - they are several hundred years older then their human pairs. Rourke isn't a vampire, but he isn't human either - he doesn't even know how old he is. Or, maybe, it wasn't the age, but the entire "uncle" thing. But, I won't make the argument by getting into the entire daddy kink either. XD What I'm saying is - I, kind of, liked this thing between Spencer and Roarke. And, it's a "thing" in progress - Spencer is so very young and he has to sow some wild oats. But, the Phouka ("Dogs") can't lie and Roarke did say he loved him, so I hope there will come the time when they become more than roommates with benefits. Not that benefits weren't hot, because, yup, they were. ^^
There is a lot of humor in the book that goes hand in hand with Spencer's character and the world, but not everything is fun and games - the resolution of situation with Spencer's mom was true to the world of tricksters, but very sad nonetheless. There are some story threads that need explaining and some that were obviously paving the way for the sequel. All in all, this is a well-plotted, imaginative story with a great protagonist and exciting world-building. The sequel can't come fast enough. Highly recommended.
For more detailed (and spot-on) review, I recommend Raine's review, that can be found here.
And, I forgot to comment - that's one awesome cover! :)
May 25, 2015
The book, starting about 75% too late, is too funny to put down. That doesn't change the fact I DNF-d it three times, so it went like this
In which case, to whoever fanciesyou fancy themselves part of the "You don't like it, write it better" crowd
because, is it too much to ask that inebriation, drugs, spells, potions and any other odd-looking responsability-and-"inhibition"-removing juice won't be used as a means to advance the plot? It's the ONLY means used to advance the plot.
Oddly enough... yes
Besides, I'm halfway through a book about tricksters and so far there is only one twist and generous boinking.
And, dear me, the L-word.
Half the reason I fled straight literature was the bad plot. One would think lack of demand would thin out the bad ones but shitty drama and angst abound... tastelessly.
Though, I'll grant, there are some funny moments... like Spencer thinking about his conception
...for the sake of my sanity, let’s call our participants Man A and Woman B, all right?” I take a deep breath, imagine two featureless mannequins in the place of my parents. “Man A has intercourse with Woman B.”
In my head the male mannequin just falls on top of the female.
So, yes, no one can accuse Spencer of being bland, albeit a tad dumb.
In which case, to whoever fanciesyou fancy themselves part of the "You don't like it, write it better" crowd
because, is it too much to ask that inebriation, drugs, spells, potions and any other odd-looking responsability-and-"inhibition"-removing juice won't be used as a means to advance the plot? It's the ONLY means used to advance the plot.
Oddly enough... yes
Besides, I'm halfway through a book about tricksters and so far there is only one twist and generous boinking.
And, dear me, the L-word.
Half the reason I fled straight literature was the bad plot. One would think lack of demand would thin out the bad ones but shitty drama and angst abound... tastelessly.
Though, I'll grant, there are some funny moments... like Spencer thinking about his conception
...for the sake of my sanity, let’s call our participants Man A and Woman B, all right?” I take a deep breath, imagine two featureless mannequins in the place of my parents. “Man A has intercourse with Woman B.”
In my head the male mannequin just falls on top of the female.
So, yes, no one can accuse Spencer of being bland, albeit a tad dumb.
November 7, 2011
I admit, I read this book because of this absolutely beautiful cover (one of my favorites), but as we all know, you need more than the cover to keep reading the story.
Spencer, the main character, kept me fully engaged and reading this enteraining urban fantasy. I love Spencer's sense of humor and pop culture knowledge. He cracked me up throughout the book, and who doesn't love someone that uses tv as his moral guide?
You learn about Spencer's trickster nature, but you always know that he has a heart and charm that is genuine.
There were moments of adventure, cleverness, laughter and sadness...all the elements for a great story.
This is not a romance, so know that going in (maybe in the future), and I admit Spence and Rourke's relationship creeped me out at first, but I got over that very quickly ;)
This was such a great read and would recommend to everyone that enjoys urban fantasy. Can't wait to read more from this author.
Spencer, the main character, kept me fully engaged and reading this enteraining urban fantasy. I love Spencer's sense of humor and pop culture knowledge. He cracked me up throughout the book, and who doesn't love someone that uses tv as his moral guide?
You learn about Spencer's trickster nature, but you always know that he has a heart and charm that is genuine.
There were moments of adventure, cleverness, laughter and sadness...all the elements for a great story.
This is not a romance, so know that going in (maybe in the future), and I admit Spence and Rourke's relationship creeped me out at first, but I got over that very quickly ;)
This was such a great read and would recommend to everyone that enjoys urban fantasy. Can't wait to read more from this author.
September 22, 2014
This was clever.
At first, I was just puttering along getting a feel for it and sightseeing when I realized that the way the story is written actually makes the reader the frickin' mark in a shell game. You think you're paying attention following along and when you go to turn it over--Slap! Wrong. You were deceived. Distracted.
The weaving of mythologies is really well done. The shredding of tropes was amusing, but maybe a tad heavy-handed. Overall, fun and smart. Btw. Don't feel bad as the reader, everyone gets played. Smile and enjoy the trick.
Favorite quote:
At first, I was just puttering along getting a feel for it and sightseeing when I realized that the way the story is written actually makes the reader the frickin' mark in a shell game. You think you're paying attention following along and when you go to turn it over--Slap! Wrong. You were deceived. Distracted.
The weaving of mythologies is really well done. The shredding of tropes was amusing, but maybe a tad heavy-handed. Overall, fun and smart. Btw. Don't feel bad as the reader, everyone gets played. Smile and enjoy the trick.
Favorite quote:
Despite being tricksters, Coyotes are very serious when it comes to the Feud, and they wouldn’t have one they believe to be weak-blooded playing their game.
March 12, 2012
This book was different, it wasn't a typical romance, more of a HFN than an HEA. What should have been icky actually made sense. Spencer's dad walked out on his family when he was little, and his dad's friend Rourke picked up the slack, even took Spence in for a while when his mom was unable to care for him. So it should have been really gross when Spencer and Rourke get closer, but the way the world is explained, with a sort of "Awakening", the ability to see the abnormal, made me believe Spence could suddenly see someone like Rourke in a new way.
There were lots of threads left open, so I can see this book having a sequel, and I will definitely be there for the ride.
There were lots of threads left open, so I can see this book having a sequel, and I will definitely be there for the ride.
did-not-finish
May 25, 2015*** DNF at 40% ***
Guys, I'm so sick of not finishing books, I can't even...
This was simply not my cup of tea. I don't like the protagonist. I think that is the main problem. And everybody else is an asshole (his dad, every secondary character), too, or weird (Rourke, or what's his name).
Fun elements in the world building. Snark. But seriously, Spencer is an ass and he's getting on my nerves.
That's all. I want it gone.
Guys, I'm so sick of not finishing books, I can't even...
This was simply not my cup of tea. I don't like the protagonist. I think that is the main problem. And everybody else is an asshole (his dad, every secondary character), too, or weird (Rourke, or what's his name).
Fun elements in the world building. Snark. But seriously, Spencer is an ass and he's getting on my nerves.
That's all. I want it gone.
June 19, 2014
Oops, he did it again.
Took every urban fantasy convention you can think of, threw them all together, stirred, and came up with something fresh. There's nothing here that hasn't been done before, but it's never been done like this. Hats off.
Took every urban fantasy convention you can think of, threw them all together, stirred, and came up with something fresh. There's nothing here that hasn't been done before, but it's never been done like this. Hats off.
November 21, 2011
Wow, so much to absorb and I was like a thirsty sponge taking it all in. Spencer was such a unique, fun character. Spence alone is worth reading this story for but the rest of it is pretty good, too.
March 15, 2012
4.5 stars.
I loved Spencer's voice, I was really charmed by his narration, as if hypnotized, and it had to be like this given what Spencer discovers about himself later in the story. He is 18, but since when his father abandoned him and his mother, he's been taking care of her. Spencer sounds both young and grown-up. He wants to grab what life has to offer, but at the same time he knows he has to take responsibility of what happens around him.
When he's given the news that his father died and he is told that he is a half-Coyote, he dives in his new life, experimenting with his gifts, launching himself in a quest that opens a whole world where he can prove himself. Spence is not ambitious, he is a reluctant fighter, but he doesn't shy away from difficult situations and he has a positive attitude that let him breeze through them. He is also assisted by Fate and he abandons himself to it, going with flow.
The world building is fantastic. I liked that all characters are not perfectly informed of their world, so that they can still be tricked and surprised. I loved the way Spencer is inspired by modern-day lore, i.e. television. I must admit that sometimes I felt a bit confused, a felt some of the wanderings were a bit aimless, even if all was very funny. I don't know if a couple of the points that left me puzzled will be used in the sequel (like the were-tiger or the young guy Spence helps at the bus station).
I don't think this is a book for everyone for a couple of reasons:
1. the other guy is incredibly sexy, but he's 53, if I recall correctly. I wasn't bothered by this because Spencer is very much aware of what's going on, he throws himself at Rourke and keeps going back to him. Even if Rourke is much older than him, their relationship is oddly balanced, because Rourke is the pursuer, Spencer is the one holding the keys of love and he is the one that in the end decides the terms of their relationship;
2. it's not romance. Spencer is adamant that he's only 18 and he wants to see what life has in store for him, even if his friendship-with-benefits with Rourke is very convenient. Also, Spencer is bi. The sex happens only with Rourke, but Spencer is not immune to the charms of women, and this confirms that he's not really ready to settle.
If you like urban fantasy, this is really an exceptional and unique story with a writing style that I found really refreshing. Looking forward to the sequel.
I loved Spencer's voice, I was really charmed by his narration, as if hypnotized, and it had to be like this given what Spencer discovers about himself later in the story. He is 18, but since when his father abandoned him and his mother, he's been taking care of her. Spencer sounds both young and grown-up. He wants to grab what life has to offer, but at the same time he knows he has to take responsibility of what happens around him.
When he's given the news that his father died and he is told that he is a half-Coyote, he dives in his new life, experimenting with his gifts, launching himself in a quest that opens a whole world where he can prove himself. Spence is not ambitious, he is a reluctant fighter, but he doesn't shy away from difficult situations and he has a positive attitude that let him breeze through them. He is also assisted by Fate and he abandons himself to it, going with flow.
The world building is fantastic. I liked that all characters are not perfectly informed of their world, so that they can still be tricked and surprised. I loved the way Spencer is inspired by modern-day lore, i.e. television. I must admit that sometimes I felt a bit confused, a felt some of the wanderings were a bit aimless, even if all was very funny. I don't know if a couple of the points that left me puzzled will be used in the sequel (like the were-tiger or the young guy Spence helps at the bus station).
I don't think this is a book for everyone for a couple of reasons:
1. the other guy is incredibly sexy, but he's 53, if I recall correctly. I wasn't bothered by this because Spencer is very much aware of what's going on, he throws himself at Rourke and keeps going back to him. Even if Rourke is much older than him, their relationship is oddly balanced, because Rourke is the pursuer, Spencer is the one holding the keys of love and he is the one that in the end decides the terms of their relationship;
2. it's not romance. Spencer is adamant that he's only 18 and he wants to see what life has in store for him, even if his friendship-with-benefits with Rourke is very convenient. Also, Spencer is bi. The sex happens only with Rourke, but Spencer is not immune to the charms of women, and this confirms that he's not really ready to settle.
If you like urban fantasy, this is really an exceptional and unique story with a writing style that I found really refreshing. Looking forward to the sequel.
November 18, 2015
ETA: This is the beginning of one of my favourite series ever (even though it's not finished yet). The series just gets better as it goes on. It's smart and intense and funny and complex and the characters are amazing. These books just grab me by the heart (and by the brain) and I love it.
***
This is awesome! I loved it. I loved the energy and the humour and the characters. Spencer is wonderfully entertaining and I liked that he's proudly bisexual. Looking forward to the next one.
***
This is awesome! I loved it. I loved the energy and the humour and the characters. Spencer is wonderfully entertaining and I liked that he's proudly bisexual. Looking forward to the next one.
October 16, 2011
Note - Wicked sense of humor needed with deep intelligence required for Coyote's Creed.
My brain has been pamperly lazy with the ordinary shifter stories lately that I need to pause and think while reading this story especially the jokes. ^__*
There was a little sadness at the ending but since I know this is the first in this series, I cant wait to see what's next for that perky Bard!
My brain has been pamperly lazy with the ordinary shifter stories lately that I need to pause and think while reading this story especially the jokes. ^__*
There was a little sadness at the ending but since I know this is the first in this series, I cant wait to see what's next for that perky Bard!
February 23, 2019
2018 Re-Read:
Glad I revisited this one. Not romance, more Urban Fantasy with a bisexual protagonist. Good Urban Fantasy, even, which has been kind of hard to find lately, so I'm extra-jazzed to remember I had this, and its sequels, in my library.
Glad I revisited this one. Not romance, more Urban Fantasy with a bisexual protagonist. Good Urban Fantasy, even, which has been kind of hard to find lately, so I'm extra-jazzed to remember I had this, and its sequels, in my library.
June 11, 2014
i've tried several times to read this book and ive failed. confusing and boring and the relationship with the "uncle" creeps me out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews