Shadows Before the Sun

Charlie Madigan #4

by Kelly Gay

"Between life and death lies a chasm of pain beyond imagining..."
Elysia may be a heavenly off-world destination, but beyond it, in the siren city of Fiallan, the Circe have punished Charlie Madigan's partner, Hank, into a torturous state between life and death. With all the proper legal channels cleared, Charlie heads to Elysia, not knowing what she'll find, or if she'll ever see the siren again... while at home, jinn crime boss Grigori Tennin has begun an all-out hunt for the divine being Ahkneri. Tennin's tactics set off a chain reaction that puts Charlie in the crosshairs of the shadowy creature known as Death, and stirs Ahkneri from her long sleep--and if Vengeance awakes, Atlanta will never be the same.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Paranormal, Magic, Romance, Fiction, Science Fiction

352 pages, ebook

First published July 31, 2012

About the author

Kelly Gay writes the critically acclaimed 'Charlie Madigan' urban fantasy series. Her work has been nominated for a double RITA, an ARRA, a Goodreads Choice Award, and landed on SIBA's Long List Book Award Finalists. Kelly is also a recipient of North Carolina Arts Council's fellowship grant in Literature. She is published in Young Adult fiction as Kelly Keaton.

Reviews

[Denisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please tell me this is not the end of this series!


I want so much more from these characters, I'm really hoping the author won't stop here.

[Ami · Rating 5 out of 5]

After her partner, Hank, is taken into The Siren City of Fiallan to receive punishment for being a traitor, Charlie is determined to go there and save him, with the help of Sandra, the Oracle. No matter the cost. But Hank is not just being held, he is being tortured by the three Circes (Arethusa, Calliadne, and Ephyra) under the spell of NecroNaMoria -- which tethers a soul to a body that has died and forces Hank's soul from going to the Afterlife and returns for sessions of torture. On top of that, Charlie's power that combines those from Elysian and Charbydon has attracted Sachâth, an assassin for First Ones, also known as Death. Can Charlie saves Hank and destroys Sachâth forever?

----------

In what might-or-might-not-be the final installment of the series, it is simply THE BEST and MY FAVORITE book of this series.

The story pulls me in straight from the beginning, when for the FIRST TIME, we get chapters written from Hank's point of view (using 3rd person). The story opens with him being tortured beyond belief, and it breaks my heart completely, and I want Charlie to save him quick, guns blazing. Though unfortunately, that doesn't happen until around 2/3rd of getting into the story (hugs Hank tight).

However, that gives a lot of other fantastic storytelling ... I learn more about the myth of First Ones, their Disciples, as well as the origin of Sachâth. And I still get to read Charlie kicks some Circe's asses, with her combined power that makes her, simply, one of divine beings.

Hank isn't simply a prince in distress, though ... once Charlie is able to break his chain, he makes his own havoc, with an amazing show of power never seen before in previous three books. Then the lovely reunion *sigh*. If I have any doubt about my wanting Hank for Charlie, well, this book erases it all.

The secondary characters also shine ... most notably, Charlie's daughter Emma (who gives Charlie the solution to defeat Sachâth), the ex-revenant/Jinn, Rex (who amuses me to no end with his antics, he's definitely Charlie's best friend, even with Will's body), as well as the Oracle, Sandra (who sadly, meets her demise in this book).

Most of the action happens in Fiallan, and only the last 1/3 part or so, Charlie and Hank brings their fight against Sachâth in Atlanta. That's my only complain, I think, that the fight against Sachâth ends a little to soon. I guess I just don't want to say goodbye for these characters just yet.

It's electrifying, captivating, mesmerizing, with such a perfect happy ending. I don't know if this is the final book, but if it is so I hope Kelly Gay will come up with new fantastic series soon ...


PS: I totally don't recognize Chris McGrath's 'signature' on this cover!! I thought it was done by someone else. I guess book #3 is my favorite cover from the series.

Edited to add: July 20th, 2013
PSS: I just read at Kelly Gay's blog that this is indeed the last book in the series. But there is a short story featuring Rex, Emma, and Brim in the anthology: Carniepunk (2013)

[Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book four continues to cement my enjoyment of this series. I had a concern in the first book that Charlie maybe came into too much power too soon and I think that has largely played out BUT it doesn't really bother me here whereas in another series it might. The main reason is because of Charlie herself. She doesn't take her powers for granted and she never just assumes that she's going to win or, hell, even survive.

Book three took us to the world of Charbydon and in this installment we head to Elysia with Charlie as she sets out to rescue Hank. This translated into not as much page time for some of the other secondary characters that I've come to love *cough*Rex*cough, but in exchange we get to meet some new characters and that proved to be worth the trip. We meet Alessandra, Atlanta's 2000 year old Oracle who was briefly mentioned way back on page one of book one, and we also meet Leander. I'm not sure who or what he is yet but I'm certain we haven't seen the last of him.

We learn more about Hank, his past, and his present and it's truly heartbreaking. While this series has always been told in Charlie's first person POV, this book deviates just a bit by giving us Hank's thoughts in third person every once in awhile. I'm not sure there would have been any other way to adequately understand what he endures in this book otherwise so I think the author made a good decision in taking this route.

I hear from the author that a decision has yet to made about any future books. I'll be very sad if there are no more books to come but I will say that this book, while leaving some avenues open for future storylines, did at least wrap up one major story arc from book one. Additionally, every character ends in such a place that I can easily see a positive outcome for them in the future. In the meantime, while I wait for news on the fifth book I'll be sure to read Carniepunk. Kelly Gay has included a short story involving Rex (yay!), Emma, and Brimstone (the family hellhound) on an adventure that takes place during the events of this book while Charlie is away saving Hank. So, while I will keep hope alive that this won't be the end of the series, I'm grateful that the characters ended on an upbeat note and I'm glad for having had the chance to meet them.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Good: This book was simply amazing. I felt wonderful things, horrible things, painful things and joyous things. A complete roller coaster of emotions. While the focus was on saving Hank, these really was so much more to it. Hank's situation fueled the progression, but things soon surpassed his survival and resolved plot issues that has existed since the very beginning. Another book is forthcoming, someday, but I would have been fully satisfied had this been the last. That's not to say I don't want another - I do and I'm pretty excited about it - but that I'm completely happy with the answers to my questions and where the story has brought us thus far.

The Bad: Not a thing.

[Bastard · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://bastardbooks.blogspot.com/2012...

When you go to Hell and back, the very least you want as a reward is a piece of Heaven. Charlie just got her wish, and she's quickly finding out it's not all it's cracked up to be. Shadows Before the Sun is the fourth novel in the Charlie Madigan series by Kelly Gay, which has been one of my favorite urban fantasy series in the past few years. Previously we joined Charlie in the world of Charybdon, this time we're taking a trip to Elysia whether she's welcomed or not.

Leaving behind a fresh murder scene in the Druid King's territory, Charlie is all set to go in a diplomatic visit to bring Hank back from his home world of Elysia. That's when she gets a shocking report concerning Hank, making her visit inconsequential. Charlie not being one to play by the rules, and being someone of the skeptic persuasion, puts a plan in motion to find the truth of the situation.  She's now undertaking an undercover mission, accompanied by an unlikely ally, into the heavenly Elysia, just to be met with horrors beyond her imagination. While she dodges an ancient superpower set on killing her, she's purposed to find the truth of what has happened to Hank, and intends to put the appropriate parties in a world of hurting.

Shadows Before for the Sun is quite a dark book. I also found it to be the most pleasingly violent so far, particularly in the graphic department. Nothing gratuitous about it, but just genuine detailed brutality. This was most prevalent in a new narrative feature from Hank's point-of-view; the subject of excruciating torture.

This series is narrated from Charlie's first person view, but for the first time Kelly Gay decided to throw Hank into the mix, but his in third person. I thought it worked wonderful. I'd be wary of overusing this tactic in future installments, but for the time being it worked quite well particularly with the story that was being told.

It was quite a straightforward book. Not many twists we've come to expect. It also took quite a bit to develop. But it wasn't much of an issue, with time well spent with the awesome Rex bantering, and the surprise character of the Oracle who was featured through most of the book tagging along with Charlie. I don't know why I kept imagining both of them growing old together and starring in a Grumpy Old Men adaptation, grandma style.

Something I found interesting with this novel was its structure. It was perfectly framed with its first and last chapter, and the middle content was dominated with two main threads, and a third one which was left over for the next installment. A third one which I thought would share more significant time in this novel, so that surprised me. As it was, even though it's not a long book, it felt like you read two novels packed in one. It contained two climaxes, the second one coming by means of an extended aftermath portion in the novel. I don't know how this development will be received, as it was a bit tricky as far as pace and rhythm was concerned, but for all my cares it just meant that I was privy to some more exciting sequences.

One thing I'm a bit leery about is how the future interaction between Charlie and Hank will develop. Though at first I was hard set against it, I have to admit that I'm enjoying some of their time together. Hank really won me over in the second half of the previous book, and this one cemented my opinion of him and his role. That said, I think it can become a bit dull and somewhat tedious if all their interactions from now on will be laced with sexual banter and erotic lustful scenes. I really hope they find other topics to talk about going forward than how majestic Hank's joystick happens to be to go along with his orgasm inducing soundtrack in bed. I may just have to deal with it as I've done so far as there's plenty more here to hold my interest.

I also wonder how Charlie's progressing power will be handled. I tell you this much, I'm not a big fan of having powerful characters being constantly restrained from exerting that power other than through the use of their own judgement. I'm of a mind to think that we may be seeing a bit more of Charlie flexing her muscles in the future, and I'm curious of what antagonists will be placed in her way to balance things out.

Probably being in the minority here, actually I'm sure of it, but I still think that the first book was the best in the series. I guess I'm just a sucker for the political intrigue it featured, with all the behind the scenes maneuvering with us having a front seat to the action. The past few novels have felt like some sort of stage is being set, without putting all the parties together and us not being privy to anyone's hand. We get hints of possible motives here and there, and how war is imminent if certain things come to pass, but still haven't seen the ambitious grab for power that we were present for in that first book. But I'm being patient with it.

Keeping that in mind, despite the emotional roller-coaster that was this book, the ending felt like it had a promise of peace, of hope that things can just get better. The previous books all seem to have ended in some tense cliffhanger moments, while this time all was tranquil. My opinion? The stage has been finally set, and this is the peace before the storm, if we aren't simply in the eye of it already. The promise of more exciting things to come holding my interest.

Character interaction was at its best though through the novel, Rex stealing scenes whenever he's present. The Oracle made a great character to have sharing a good portion of the novel, so that was very much welcomed, and a new character has been introduced who is a wild card. He will keep things quite interesting. Nothing to say of how awesome Pen the Druid King is, so also looking forward to more of him.

Kelly Gay has written another solid installment in this Charlie Madigan saga. Shadows Before the Sun will surely be well received by fans of the series, and I think it'll be the favorite of the great majority reading it. Don't know what Gay has planned next for the series, hearing rumors of a book featuring the Druid King's story, but whichever way she takes us, I'll be quite eager to follow.

[Christen (GoldiloxReads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hank deserves more than you falling down now, Charlie. Stand and fight.

The Charlie Madigan series continues to impress and entertain me with this fourth installment, Shadows Before the Sun.

First of all, let me tell you that the above synopsis really does nothing to tell you what this book is about. In fact, the part of Tennin and Akneri isn't even exactly correct. But have no fear, I will help you out. At the end of the previous book Hank was carted off, back to his home of Elysia. This book starts with Charlie getting ready to leave for Elysia, embarking on a rescue mission to bring Hank back. No one knows if Hank if dead or alive, or perhaps something even worse than dead. At the airport she meets a traveling partner she didn't realize she was going to have - Alessandra, the Oracle. Alessandra and Charlie have a spotty history - they're both strong and stubborn women, and throw in Alessandra's mysteriousness and they don't really get along.

Charlie and Alessandra are quite the pair and I really loved that Gay finally let us learn a little more about the Oracle. I enjoyed watching the two grow closer as they worked together to con the Elysian royalty and find Hank. It turns out that Alessandra is a complicated character, even more mysterious than previously thought. Her actions and reasoning are intriguing and I grew to love her character in this one.

We get to read several short scenes from Hank's point of view and it was a nice change to see things through his eyes. It also confirms what we readers suspect, Hank is indeed alive but not exactly doing well.

Sometimes he dreamt. . . Mostly they were nightmares, repetition of his torture, of his tired soul being pulled back in his broken body. But some were relished, like those of death, blood, and vengeance against the Circe.
And some were more painful than others.
The good ones were the worst.

But here is part of the reason this book gets four stars instead of five: Hank is missing for 3/4 of the book. No, I'm not kidding. And these brief scenes where we see Hank's situation from his point of view do nothing to fill the void felt by his absence. I just felt like the whole trip to Elysia took way too long and took us too far from Charlie's world. Everyone is missing in this one: Rex, Emma, and Brim are only in the story briefly, Charlie's sister Bryn and the mage are never seen at all, and Gregoi Tennin is completely out of the picture.

Perhaps this whole part of the story could have been shorter? I'm not sure how but goodness it was like reading a whole different story. Since Gay's diverse group of amazingly written characters are one of my favorite things about this series, and with the way things were left between Charlie and Hank, I wasn't ready for them to all be missing or barely around in this book.

That doesn't mean this isn't a great story, because it certainly is. There are a lot of twists and turns that I didn't expect. And like I said previously, I really did like Alessandra taking a step to the forefront. I also loved the world building Gay gave us with Elysia. She managed to create an entirely different world from Earth and Charbydon. Her famous world building is a major strength in this series.

And when that 3/4 of the book is over and everyone has found their way back to Earth? The story moves right along at a fast pace. Some wonderful things that I've been waiting for finally take place and the book's ending battle is amazing and well constructed.

God, he was beautiful.

And there was so much more to him than just the beauty. It was everything I'd learned, everything on the inside, everything he had endured that added to the picture standing there all hard and lean, a fallen angel with a tormented soul and a devil's attitude.

The introduction of a new and perplexing character, named Leander, while in Elysia carries over to the story on Earth and leaves us wondering where his story will go in future books. Charlie's connection to the Ancient Akneri is explored further and we finally get to find out more about the Ancients and Akneri herself. Questions also finally get answered about Death, the mysterious smoke-like creature who comes to Charlie every time she uses her powers and tries to kill her.

It almost feels like Gay is cramming as many story line closures as she can into this last quarter of the book. I hope this doesn't mean this series is in danger of not continuing, because I adore this series and even though this one is my least favorite so far, the series as a whole is one of my all time favorite urban fantasies. I believe Kelly Gay has stated somewhere online that the series is indeed continuing, but I still have concerns.

My hope for the next book is that we get to explore Hank and Charlie's continuingly awkward yet chemistry-filled relationship, we get to see Emma and Brim work their magic together, Bryn and the mage reappear, and we get more REX!

Recommended for fans of: urban fantasy, unique fantasy elements, strong heroines who have realistically clumsy or embarrassing moments, and sexy sirens.

Read more of my reviews at: http://goldiloxandthethreeweres.blogs...

[All Things Urban Fantasy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy

Who would have thought heaven would be scarier than hell? After venturing to Charbydon in the last book, Charlie is visiting the glorious Elysia in SHADOWS BEFORE THE SUN. While it is beautiful to behold, Elysia is where Hank is being held and tortured beyond human comprehension. Never one to shy away from heavy emotions, Kelly Gay forces her readers to the brink with Charlie and Hank, and then begins to piece them back together in a way that will have you cheering.

For the first time in the series, Charlie shares POV space with another character: Hank. The majority of the story is still told from Charlie’s perspective, but those few scenes from Hank are fantastic. He’s long been the character I’ve been craving to know more about, and this glimpse inside has only made me want to know more. His chapters are often delusional as he is repeatedly brought to the point of death and his mind begins to shred as a result. The Hank that emerges is damaged, though not as much as I would have expected…hopefully the ramifications are just further reaching.

The Charlie Madigan urban fantasy series has been a favorite since it’s debut, and it’s books like SHADOWS BEFORE THE SUN that ensure it stays a favorite. The mythology is utterly unique, and introducing Hank’s perspective, along with a willingness to resolve long running storylines while setting up new ones are just further indications that this series has plenty more to give. Bring it on.

Sexual Content:
Attempted sexual assault. Scene of sensuality/brief sex scene

[Alexia Chantel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gay has done it, with Shadows Before the Sun she manages to surpass the the action and emotional connection the previous books had. Who would have thought it was possible!

The end of book three leaves you hanging just a little. Death is stalking Charlie, her sister is safe but still addicted to ash, and Hank has been taken back to his home to face the wrath of three powerful beings. You can breathe a sigh of relief, well not once you start since there are plenty of bombs dropped on Charlie right away...but once you reach the end you will have some relief.

Charlie is determined to find Hank, no matter how grim the outlook. She travels to Elysia with, surprise surprise, the Oracle! Not exactly friends, but not enemies either they do provide some comic relief to the dark and serious happenings. Finally able to face the three Circe Charlie gives into her power. The repercussions from her choice will be felt far and wide, even more so after she returns home and still has to face Death.

Shadows Before the Sun has a perfect ending. You even get to see Charlie through someone else’s eyes. As perfect as it was, you will still be itching for another Charlie Madigan book. Please, please, please keep writing them Kelly!


Review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
(copy courtesy of publisher)

[mlady_rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although there is a minor sub-mystery -- the case Charlie passes off to a co-worker before heading off to Elysia -- the main mystery thrust of the story is saving Hank from being punished by the Circe.

Like most series that continue to follow the same characters, books like this -- where one of the main characters is so intimately involved in the mystery -- are my favorite. All the characters and all of the events are part of the core story. There is no "filler", no excess.

The story starts on a sour note. The ambassadors to Elysia have been told that Hank was killed immediately upon arriving back in Fiallan. Since Charlie already has the time off and permission to enter Elysia, Emma and Rex convince her to go anyway. And, of all people, Sandra the oracle is waiting to accompany her.

With Sandra along, Charlie plays security guard and companion, while Sandra negotiates an audience with the Circe directly. An invitation is so much easier than sneaking around the city hoping that the mark Hank gave her will warm.

This is possibly spoilers, so if you're sensitive, avert your eyes.

I was happy that Charlie found Hank before the end of the book. I was worried about either another cliff hanger or a rushed ending. But she found him early enough in the book for us to see some of the consequences of his imprisonment. Not to mention a goddess blessed oasis for the both of them to recover.

We also learn a lot more about the shared history of Elysia, Earth, and Charbydon. We learn of the First ones and their Disciples, who were seeded onto the three worlds, and the indigenous people who were in their "cave man" phase when the Creator seeded the worlds. The sirens, fae, and nymphs of Elysia, as well as the jinn and ghouls of Charbydon were all born of "the primal deities and energies that emerged in those worlds' infancy".

All and all, an excellent example of urban fantasy. Unique and fascinating world building. A seemingly impossible quest. Self-sacrifice on a number of fronts. A budding friendship (with Sandra). A partnership that is on the verge of something more. A satisfying ending that leaves possibilities open for the future. A tease of romance. (And, yes, I wanted more.) All signs that romance won't end the firm foundation of friendship that came first.

A delightful morsel.

Oh, and a technical point I wanted to make. The book is written in first person from Charlie's point of view, with some brief passages from Hank's point of view. I really appreciated the italics used to identify Hank's point of view. I frequently get lost between narrators when the POV switches too often, but this was smooth as silk.

I'm back to "no complaints except the next book isn't available immediately", and a tad bit of "wish there was more on the sexual front". But, hey, any more and the book wouldn't be as tightly written.

Kudos to the author. My favorite in the series, thus far. One of my favorite urban fantasy series, at the moment.

[Karissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Charlie Madigan series and it was one of the best books in the series yet. We learn a ton about Hank and his history and Charlie takes a trip to Elysia.

When Charlie hears of Hank’s supposed death she immediately makes plans to set out to Elysia to try and track him down. To her surprise she is accompanied by the Oracle. In addition to this she is being hunted by Ahkneri (Death itself) whenever she tries to use her powers. Added to this is a mysterious attack in the Druid’s Grove that the Lord of Druids wants Charlie to solve and quickly.

Absolutely stunning addition to this series. The majority of the story focuses on Charlie going on a quest to save Hank. Her quest to save Hank uncovers some amazing secrets along the way . She learns how to control her powers and faces off with Death itself. Charlie has grown a lot as a character in this series, she is finally getting her powers under control and learning how to use them. With the disappearance of Hank, Charlie is forced to face some truths about her feelings for him.

The addition of the Oracle, Sandra, to the story is awesome. Sandra is a fun character and adds a lot of dimension to the story. The things that happen between her, Charlie, and Hank in this book leave room for some interesting developments in future books.

As for Hank we learn a ton about him in this book and a lot of it isn’t pretty. There are scenes in here that are so heartbreaking involving Hank and the changes he goes through as the story progresses are hard to deal with. It gives his character even more depth and has me eager to see what will happen next to him.

As with previous books the plot was fast-paced and action-packed. Gay’s writing style is easy to read and very consistent; I really enjoy reading her books. This book has an excellent balance of story, world-development, character growth, and action. Some of the larger plot points that have been left hanging are wrapped up here as well.

Overall I loved this book. I read it pretty much in one day. There are so many great things going on in this series; great world-building, a great plot, wonderful character growth and awesome action scenes. This book has everything you could want in a great urban fantasy. This series just keeps getting better and is highly recommended to fans of urban fantasy.

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadows

The worst book in a series is always the travel one. The reason I love a series is the characters and the way they interact. But for some reason so many authors decide to take their characters on road trips where they're totally isolated from the other characters, as though exploring cool settings can make up for the characters that we love. I do understand in this series that the other two worlds are part of the premise that the author wanted to explore from the beginning. But at least in the last book when Charlie went to Charbydon a few of the other characters went with her. This time on Elysia she was completely isolated from everyone in her family. The only person from Earth with her was the Oracle, Alessandra, a very minor character that while somewhat interesting was certainly not someone with whom I felt any rapport previous to this book. I think it worked better than most travel books. The Circe were properly terrifying and the contrast between their cruelty and the beauty of Elysia was effective. And to some degree, Charlie being alone and isolated was also an effective storytelling technique; seeing how she handled doing everything on her own was interesting and helped her develop her abilities. But for a good portion of the book I really missed seeing her interact with the characters that bring out her best qualities.

Early on in the series I sometimes felt like the some of the use of mythology was too heavy-handed, trying to incorporate too many famous myths and religious icons, it just sometimes made it feel a bit cheesy and like it was trying too hard to be cute. But in the last book or two I've liked this aspect a lot more, things have come together better for me. I thought the trip to Elysia was good for illustrating the concept that the author created.

Overall it was an engaging book. I really do like Charlie and the other characters. The author writes a good story and I feel an emotional connection to Charlie, Hank, Emma and Rex. And Brim, don't forget the hellhound! 

[☀Rachael☀ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This took me a while to finish I do really like Charlie and Hank and Rex I just get a bit lost with all of the first ones ect.. But saying that this was the first time I didn't want to get off a plane as I wanted to keep reading!
Is this the last one? I'm not sure, I'm sure there is more to come!

[Kathy Davie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fourth in the Charlie Madigan urban fantasy series revolving around a detective who is no longer human. Most of the action takes place in Fiallan, the city of the sirens.

My Take
Oh, wow. This was so intense with some incredibly, godawful torture. Oh. I just can't… How people can be that power-hungry, I'll never know. So awful that I almost got too caught up in these events, but then towards the end, all the new possibilities popped into view. There's Leander with the "promise" of what he fears. What Tuni will be able to accomplish.

It's bullies again. And people allowing them to get away with it.

Interesting backstory on those words of power, the Source Words, and that of the families from which the Malakim are drawn. Even more interesting story about Ahkneri, First Ones, and Disciples.

I'm still lost as to why Charlie is so incredibly body-shy. It just seems so juvenile. Although, she seems to have gotten over it at the end, ooh, mama! Oh, crack me up! You'll be laughing when you read Alessandra's letter at the end. True to the end, LOL.

I don't think I read this series for Charlie. She's too same-same as other protagonists in other stories. But I do like the twist Gay has put on our concept of demons and angels, fae and jinn, and I keep wanting to know where she'll take it. It doesn't hurt that I enjoy the other characters as well. Sure, Charlie's got that bit of a twist going on, but so do all the other "heroines". It's her situation and the cast of supporting characters that make this series intriguing.

The Story
Captured, imprisoned, tortured. The Circe have taken Hank. They claim he's dead. At least, that's what they've told the Earth reps---that he was executed, but Charlie refuses to believe it.

While wandering Fiallan, Charlie encounters Leander, a supremely powerful being who will make a deal with her to save those dear to her.

The Characters
Charlie Madigan, a blend of the Elysians, Charbydons, and humans who is becoming a deity, is anxious to recover her partner, Hank Williams. Hank, a.k.a., Niérian of the House of Elekti-Kairos, is a siren accused of betraying his homeland, Fiallan. He was captured in Hour of Dust and Ashes , 3.

Sachâath, a.k.a., Death, attacks Charlie every time she uses her powers as he was designed to do, to track down rebellious Archons. Leander is extremely powerful, and I'm not sure who or what he is.

Emma is Charlie's twelve-year-old daughter with newly revealed powers and protected by Brim, her hellhound. Rex is a Revenant, possessing, owning Charlie's ex-husband's body now that Will Garrity will never return to it. That assurance is allowing sparks of jinn to surface within him.

Chief Abernathy, Hank, Charlie, and Sian, a Jinn-human hybrid and Grigori's daughter, make up a federal unit in Atlanta. Detective Ashton Perry hates and despises Charlie. Liz is the medical examiner with a lot of experience in supernatural bodies; Elliot is her very young-looking assistant.

Dr. Titus Mott is a genius scientist who discovered Elysia and Charbydon.

Charlie is amazingly lucky that Alessandra, a 2,000-year-old Oracle, is coming with her. Tuni, a rogue jinn warrior, is her guard. Edainnué Lightwater is an Elysian Elder willing to help. For a price. Pendaran is the Druid King, a dragon shifter, ruler over the nymphs, a.k.a., the Kinfolk, based in a huge park purchased by the fey. He's, um, storing the body of a First One, Ahkneri, keeping it from the rebels. Killian was a guard.

The Sirens in Fiallan
King Aersis of the Royal House of Akleion rules in Fiallan. Arethusa, Calliadne, and Ephyra are the Circe, who have been betraying the sirens and their goddess for centuries. Panopé, the Witch of the Sea, the mother to the siren race, has her vengeance.

The First Ones, a.k.a., Archons, are divine beings said to have created the three noble races: the Elysian Adonai, the Charbydon nobles, and humans. Disciples are guardians to the Archons. Elysians think they are gods and are the ruling elite, the House of Astarot. Sirens are a race of gloriously beautiful beings whom no human can resist. They use gifted sirens to "man" the grids that protect the city, Malakim. Nymphs are also from Elysia as are Warlocks, a warrior sect of Elysian mage. So somehow Elysians are a different species from nymphs and mages?? They and the Charbydon (the House of Abaddon, think demons) exist on a parallel plane and share the ruling of their planet. The Jinn are also from Charbydon.
``
The Cover
The cover is rough and scary...eek! Greenish-grays make up the collapsing background of pillars and mosaic floors while the long-haired Charlie, the tattoo on her arm flashing, as she slashes her way through with her pink arcing blade.

I think the title is a metaphor for the horrors Charlie---and Atlanta---must undergo before they can emerge into the sun, for there are Shadows Before the Sun in Atlanta and in Charlie's life.

[Mihir · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Review originally at Fantasy Book Critic

ANALYSIS: For a while I was thinking that Shadows Before The Sun would be the last Charlie Madigan book and after the events of the last book, anticipation was high in regards to how it would all end. The author has been kind enough to point out the egregious nature of our assumptions and this helped a bit.

The premise of this book needs a brief recap of the events of The Hour Of Dust and Ashes, wherein Charlie, Rex and Hank had to go to Charybdon and figure out a way to save Charlie’s sister life. This trip while being utterly dangerous was doubly difficult due to actions of the jinns. While the book had an explosive climax, a particular event left Charlie and the readers severely troubled. This book deals with Charlie’s efforts to go to Elysia and figure out a way to get someone back. Thus after their hellish ordeal Charlie will have to find her strength and gather her friends and make an attempt to enter Elysia and find out what is going on there. Her first attempt goes wrong thanks to the bureaucratic nature of relations between her world and Elysia however she soon discovers new allies in the form of an oracle and makes the trip to save her friend from his ultimate fate.

Where do I begin with this book, only does it outdo the events and excitement caused by its predecessor, it also sets up some terrific things for the future books. While The Hour Of Dust and Ashes was my favorite book so far, it easily gets displaced by Shadows Before The Sun. Firstly lets talk about the unique nature of this book, for the first time ever we get a POV other than Charlie and it’s a third person narrative from Hank. This move makes this book even more unpredictable and adds in a unique look into the actions occurring in the story. Secondly the action and violence in this book makes all that has come before truly child’s play, this book seriously has some dark corners and the twisted imagination of the author inflicts heavy loads on all characters especially on the major duo.

We get a resolution in Hank & Charlie’s relationship status and that heralds a different direction from the next book and also the reader gets a resolution to the plot arc about what was found beneath the lake a couple of books ago. With so many character and plot arcs being resolved, this book can be said to an end of the first series arc in the Charlie Madigan world. The author plans to write another book with Charlie and Hank and perhaps a one from the Druid King’s perspective. That is something that makes me giddy with anticipation.

Shadows Before The Sun is a cracker of a book and easily the best of the series toppling The Hour Of Dust and Ashes. For all readers shying away from urban fantasy thinking it to be too much like paranormal romance, give Kelly Gay’s dark series a try, you surely will be surprised by the violence and lack of sparkly vampires ensconced within these pages. How can I be so sure, simply because I was a skeptic like you a few years ago before I read the first book!

[Melissa Hayden · Rating 5 out of 5]

We start with a Prologue where Hank is being whipped with a special barbed whip for escaping the Circe witches years ago, and learns he is the last of his family line.

Rex and Charlie are on their way to look at a dead body in the Nymph territory. Rex, being of a special decent, will help identify if a jinn was present at the scene as the Druid King says he saw. The First One, Ahkneri, may not be as safe as Charlie had thought. This case that could cause a deadly war between two enemies, all the day before she heads to Fiallan in Elysia to rescue Hank, her siren partner. Charlie finds The Federation Representatives sent to find and start Hanks release have returned when she comes back to the office, and not with pleasant news. Hanks not in any of the towers and the Circe claim to have executed him as the traitor they saw him as. Charlie doesn't believe it and is still given the time off with approved passes, to go to Fiallan to see for herself and get closure. Along the way Charlie finds Sandra, the Oracle, waiting for her and her fate is to join Charlie, to help her. Charlie and Sandra enter the heaven of Elysia knowing what torment lays hidden in the beauty of which is only skin deep.

Dark comes to mind first. Kelley has taken us on a dark path through the beautiful world. I LOVE it! The treatment in this one is pure torturous to the characters. I love seeing Elysia and the Sirens. Elysia looks like heaven on the outside, but to charlie, the inside is anything but.

The beginning takes us right into the current story, the murder case of a nymph with Jinn involved (and maybe Sidhe warriors too) and the issues with Hank. But there are brief mentions of important pieces to help refresh what sparks my memories. I know this all will tie together, but left curious about the nymph murder.

The family element is still present. Although not as much, as Charlie is in Elysia hunting for Hank, but when she is home, it is there and strong. Charlies daughter with Brim the hellhound and Rex make me smile with the fun craziness between them. Such family love.

I feel I get more of different races here, once again with visiting another world this expands easily for us the cultures. Slowly we learn more about the Djinn and Sirens, and even of those in Elysia more so with being there. Their weaknesses and in depth with djinn as well as with Rex now. I really like this in the books. Kelley has thoroughly thought out her worlds.

With each book I enjoy this series more and more. Kelley has left a few things open in the end that makes me curious to see what she will bring to us next. There is something else to come, and I want to know who or what it is. What fight will Charlie fight with her friends at her side? What is Leander and what does he know of what's to come? Who is the mysterious being after the First One?

Yes, this is a series I truly will keep an eye on.

[Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows before the Sun is the fourth installment in the Charlie Madigan series by Kelly Gay. The book starts out with a murder in the Druid King’s territory, one of his enforcer was apparently murdered by a Jinn, or so he thinks. Charlie combs the crime scene but eventually passes it over to another detective, as she prepares to leave to Elysia to retrieve her partner Hank. Hank was taken back to Elysia as a traitor to the government for escaping (the grid) when he was younger. The day before Charlie is to leave to Elysia, she gets word that Hank been executed. Charlie doesn’t believe it for a second and sets out to find the truth and bring Hank home.

You guys know that feeling when you been on a trip for days and right when you get home you’re fill with joy, so relax and comfortable being back in your own house? That’s what it feels like jumping back into the Charlie Madigan series. Even though it’s been a year or more since I read the last book in the series, once I open the book and immerse myself in the world and characters that Mrs. Gay created…it felt so good like I never left. I postponed reading the book right when it came out because I heard many of the original characters didn’t have much page time as previous books. Although, I was bummed about not seeing more of Hank, Rex, Emma, Brimstone, and Pen, readers got to know more about Sandra the Oracle. The majority of the book involved the Oracle tagging along with Charlie on her mission to save Hank, saying that her fate is intertwined with the two of them. I really enjoy the budding friendship between Sandra and Charlie.

The book is told from Charlie’s point-of-view, but there were occasionally snippets of Hank’s third person point-of-view scattered throughout the book. I thought this was interesting, but I prefer only one pov. This was an awesome addition to the series, and each book just gets better and better. This book had me laughing and crying from start to finish. This is one of my favorite UF series around, with one of the best world-building and characters ever written. I always look forward to a Charlie Madigan book, and hope that there will be more to come. This was truly an AMAZING-emotional novel; I can’t wait to see where Mrs. Gay will take Charlie and the gang in the next book.

I highly recommend everyone to pick up this series, you won’t regret it. If you enjoy the Elemental Assassin series by Jennifer Estep, Kate Daniel series by Ilona Andrews, Horngate Witches series by Diana P. Francis, or the October Daye series by Seanan McGuire…then you’ll definitely enjoy this series!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally posted at RabidReads.com.

Shadows Before the Sun starts off where The Hour of Dust and Ashes ends. Hank has been taken by his people. He was wanted for treason. Everyone keeps telling Charlie that he is already dead and that she should mourn him and move on. In this world that Ms. Gay has built, there are three worlds. Earth, and the alternate dimensions of heaven-like Elysia and hell-like Charbydon. In the previous book, Charlie, Hank and Rex visited Charbydon. In this one, Charlie goes to Elysia to get Hank back.

While at the airport to take a portal to Elysia, Charlie runs into Alessandra. She is the oracle in Atlanta and has been alive for over 2,000 years. Charlie and Sandra don’t have a good history. They’ve never gotten along. Charlie thinks Sandra is a know-it-all. Sandra sorta is a know-it-all and acts like it. So Sandra knows that she is supposed to accompany Charlie on this journey, but because she is involved, can’t see more than that.

The first part of the book does drag a little bit, while Charlie is trying to get to Fiallan, the city that the Sirens call home. It is pretty secluded and it takes magic to get there. Then once, they arrive, they have to try to get to see Circe, the priestess. During this time, Charlie and Sandra do become closer friends. Charlie learns that Sandra isn’t all bad.

Throughout all of this, we do get some glimpses into Hank’s experiences. So, we do learn before Charlie that Hank is alive. But what Hank is experiencing is way worse than death. He has no idea that Charlie is coming for him.

There is some new revelations as to why a dark shadow is following Charlie around everytime she uses her powers. Also, the introduction of a new character of Leander. He is very mysterious. I’m sure he has a part to play later in the series, but I’m not sure where yet.

I’m in love with this series. If you haven’t started it yet, I highly recommend it. It is a wonderful urban fantasy with amazing world-building. The characters are amazing and funny. There is a ton of action and suspense. There has been quite a break between this book and next book, but it has a name and a cover (if not a blurb, yet). I’m hoping that it will in fact be released next year. I hope this series isn’t ended here.

[Melliane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mon avis en Français

My English review

I waited impatiently for this volume since the end of last one. I must say that we had a terrible cliffhanger and I couldn’t wait to hear the rest of the story. Indeed, with the departure of Hank, I wondered what Charlie was going to do to save him. Well who wouldn’t be curious to know more about the sirens city? Yes, I know, I’m too curious!

This volume follows perfectly the third one. Charlie is determined to get Hank back from Fiallan whatever it may cost, although everyone tells her he is already dead. Thing she can not believe and therefore chooses to go there to be sure of that fact. Accompanied by Sandra, the Oracle, she may enter the city as her bodyguard and then tries to browse around to learn more about her friend. However, it is with surprise that she befriends with the young woman, who tries to help her in her own way. We will discover soon enough that Hank is the prisoner of three crazy women who torture him until he dies to start each time, making him a little crazier with time. But our heroine is determined to find him and does not lose hope for his recovery.

I loved how the book was written. We follow the Charlie’s adventures throughout the chapters but we also occasionally have the perspective of Hank. It really broke my heart to read his passages, to see what he was enduring. We can only sympathize with him and hope that Charlie or death can release him. He showed a lot of courage, and even if he lost his head, he got to stay lucid enough to understand what was wrong.

This volume was really good and full of surprises. As in the previous one, a lot of things happen and some of them have a big impact on the lives of our heroine. The story passes in one moment from joy to pain in a fairly amazing way. I struggled to release the book before the end and I hope with all my heart that we will have the opportunity to see more. Kelly Gay has an undeniable talent and her writing captures us from the beginning of the story. Another very good series to discover.

[Kelly (Maybedog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m sad that this is the last Charlie Madigan book even though it was by far my least favorite of the lot. I’ve loved this series with a strong but nice heroine who isn’t walking around giving snarky and nasty retorts to anything anyone says but in fact is nice. She’s raising a tween aged daughter who is smart and also nice and her top priority. So is saving the world.

This story has her off rescuing the male lead while saving multiple dimensions at the same time. She does so through numerous action sequences and intelligent investigation, all of which I love.

So why didn’t I like this one as well? It just wasn’t grounded in the interesting gritty world of the last books but in another reality that seems to be serene and pleasant but is hiding its darkness underneath. It feels too much like epic fantasy which I really don’t like. The fact that few of the characters from the previous books appear in the majority of the book was frustrating, too. Rarely were Hank and Charlie even in the same scenes.

Also, the bastardizations of various mythologies began to get to me with this book. While I love mythology, I just didn’t enjoy this. It just felt like someone got it wrong (“the Circes” plural) even though I’m sure it was intentional.

The ending, while exciting and full of danger and peril, fell flat somehow, maybe too short or too jumbled, not really much of the finale I would expect when so many storylines are wrapped up. Maybe I just took too long reading it and lost my emotional attachment. (I read it on my alternate e-reader which I keep somewhere I rarely have time to read so it took me months. Probably my review should be taken with a grain of salt.)

Still, this really stands well as the end of a series. In fact, it’s hard to see where it would go after this. Perhaps that’s why the author has put the next book on what probably is permanent hiatus. So although I really want another installment, it’s mostly so I can have a last book that I love rather than one I only liked.

[Joshua Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

As seen on Rabidreads.ca:

Shadows before the Sun quickly passes the “Likable Fantasy Names” test with flying colors.   Our protagonist, Charlie Madigan, adores her daughter, Emma.   Hank, an astral plane-hopping siren, Alessandra, an oracle, Charybdon, one of the two alternate planes of existence, and Elysia, the other alternate plane of existence flaunt their Greco-Roman heritage.   Sure, the uses can be somewhat loose, such as calling the head siren-witches, Circes, but I give props (the Greeks invented theatre, get it?) where they are due.


The plot has a brilliant story-within-a-story construction.   First Charlie must cross into Elysia to search for Hank.   Once that’s taken care of (I won’t say how or if it is), she must deal with her extraordinary power, a glowing arm, and the divine assassin dispatched by the Creator to shut it down.


Charlie aces the “Lead Actress Likability” test: loves her daughter Emma, feels an assortment of feelings for Hank, and undisguisedly hates the Circes.   That undisguised hatred for Circes becomes quite the running joke.   Alessandra, although I get the feeling she was not so likable earlier in this fantasy, comes across as a solid sidekick/enigmatic leader.


Elysia’s architecture and the involved battle sequence(s) that take place there dapple frequently in rich blues and oranges and nearly everything has a set of columns.   This one took me back to the heyday of fantasical lit. (for me like grades four-six: Redwall and Dune series).   I am quite excited to start this series proper - at the beginning - posthaste. Don’t be fooled by the rather drab cover.   I am sure they were just trying to reflect the dreary Atlanta skyline, which I think got all overcast in a previous entry.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leaving this world after The Hour of Dust and Ashes I was totally bereft. I needed to know what happened right after. I needed this book!

OMG. Can I say it again? OMG! This book was everything I waited for and more. Yes, my favorite UF mother is back (I mean that literally... her daughter is so adorable and smart). My fave characters were back as well. Oh and the conclusion to what happened at the end of The Hour of Dust and Ashes totally fulfilled me (don't worry, I'm not going to spoil anything for those that have yet to dive into this series). There are also other parts that were left open through the series that also had a conclusion. I was a bit surprised and pleased about that. Oh yea... this book answered a lot of questions and posed at least a couple more. No cliffies, just curiosity and open threads to pick up the story in the next book.

Hm... but what more can I say without spoilage? I still want a hellhound. Grim was not in any of the action this time, but *lowers voice so pups don't hear* I still want one. I still think a Grim like hellpup would fit nicely into my menagerie. :) I guess I can also state what I don't like about this book. *deep breath* I don't like that I had to wait this long for the book. I don't like I have to wait more for the next. Yep, that's about all my greedy little heart wants. I want them all NOW! ;)

I give this book 5 stars. It was the story I was anticipating. It was more. I want HANK! I want Grim. Oh, sorry, didn't mean to whine. It's just... if you like UF... you need this series. Go pick them up NOW! Either that or you will be slobbered on by a hellhound. No one wants that. :D

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best One Yet!

I strongly suggest you read the previous books in the series (The Better Part of Darkness, The Darkest Edge of Dawn and The Hour of Dust & Ashes) prior to reading this installment.

This is one of the best dark urban fantasy series I've ever read! This series is on my top five favorite series of all time.

This was by far the best installment to date and I love the direction the series is taking. You gotta love a woman who can rescue her man, kick some major ass and still care for her daughter and friendly hellhound.

The author is skilled at reeling you in and transporting you to a world of endless possibilities. Suppose heaven and hell were actual planets? What if the tales of sirens, fae, jinn were real? This series never lets me down and always provides sheer unadulterated entertainment.

Unfortunately, the series is in a state of flux. The author has noted that talks on publishing future books for the series are still ongoing and no new releases have been slated at this time. This installment would satisfy as a series end; however, there is so much more story left to tell. It would be ashamed for Charlie, Emma, Hank and Rex's journey end here.

I highly recommend this book to fellow dark urban fantasy readers. I sincerely hope there are plenty more books in the near future. (I would also categorize this as a SciFi-light, since it does deal with dimension travel and different planets. I also recommend this to fellow SF readers).

I also recommend:
Gunmetal Magic (Kate Daniels)
A Perfect Blood (The Hollows)
Shadow City (Horngate Witches)
Once Burned (Night Prince, Book 1)
By a Thread (Elemental Assassin)

[Blodeuedd Finland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have waited and waited for this book. For those who read the previous book you know what I mean. The way it ended broke me and made me crave this one badly, and madly.

I finished the book in a day because I could not put it down. Charlie was going to Elysia to find Hank and those evil bitches who put him back in a hellish jail. Elysia is what heaven is supposed to be but in the Siren city heaven is not what I think of. But Charlie will get an ally, I can't say who, but someone comes.

Through out the whole book the only thing I could think of was Hank, Hank Hank! Sure I liked him before, but now, now I felt it. They need to be together, they must be together. But will they?

Most of the book takes place in Elysia and I liked that. It did give the book another tone and it was nice for a change. Just like we visited the hell world in the last book.

Where was I? Am I rambling again? I think so. There is just so much to say. I like the world. A world where humans found ways to visit "Hell" and "Heaven" and found out that monsters and Gods were really those beings from the other worlds visiting. A city in eternal darkness, and a main character who has been experimented upon. And therefore she has cool weird powers. And those powers come out to play again as she meets Death. And Death is not nice.

Another great book in the series and I want more. I love Charlie and Hank. Rex! And everyone else.

Start this series now!

[Kira · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars. The setting for part of the story was in another world, so the book didn’t focus on all of the usual characters as much as normal. It all worked out very well though. This was my favorite installment in the series. Another reason this one felt a little different was that Charlie had accepted her situation and her feelings for Hank. It was great to see her determined to get what she wanted instead of torn apart with indecision.

One character who played a much smaller role in the other books had a big role in this. Alessandra (a.k.a. Sandra) is the oracle. She and Charlie have to work together to achieve a goal. She was a character I didn’t particularly like before, but she was surprisingly fun.

Although Hank didn’t get as much page time as usual, some small parts were from his perspective. I really enjoyed getting a little glimpse into his POV, and it was necessary to the plot since he and Charlie were not together for a good portion of it. Also lot more was learned about his family and his world.

All of the big issues were wrapped up since this is the last book before the publisher cancelled the series. There were several things left unexplained, which definitely leaves room for more books. Leander was a new character who was very mysterious. It was hard to tell if his long term plans would help or hurt Charlie. I’m keeping fingers crossed that the fifth book will be self published next year so some of these things will be explained.

[Thenia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great addition to an awesome series!

Charlie continues to be pretty kick-ass and fiercely loyal and in this part of her story she is on a mission to save her partner. She gets to see Elysia, the opposite of Charbydon and the equivalent of paradise, but her determination to find and rescue Hank makes it less enjoyable for Charlie than it would be otherwise.

A lot of things get resolved, the shadow creature appearing whenever Charlie uses her power and the darkness above the city among them, enemies vanquished and mysteries uncovered and there has been some foreshadowing that makes me hopeful for a sequel, despite hearing that this is probably the end of the series.

For now, there is a short story starring Rex, Emma and hellhound puppies in "Hell’s Menagerie", Kelly Gay's short story in Carniepunk.

[Maryab Maryab · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this urban fantasy series. Charlie is such a strong heroine. She will do anything for those she loves, and proved it in this book and the last one. I was glad to see her and Hank finally hit it off. The story was smooth flowing and each chapter had me hooked. The action was intense. Someone was going to die. I could sense it and hoped like hell Hank was not going to betray Charlie. I couldn't stop reading, even at work. I would recommend this series with no hesitation.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this series is one of those cases where I enjoyed it well enough, but there are also large, plotty sections that I didn't really follow.

I guess this is the last book. There are some threads left hanging, which is too bad, but I'm not sure I'd pick up another book in the series if one suddenly came out.

[Angela Verdenius · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent addition! I love how it ends, though the journey there was painful (in more ways than one - you'll see what I mean if you read this book). A look at another dimension of the series, another race, their ideas and customs and how they get along/clash with 'humans'. And Charlie in the middle of it all! I really hope book 5 gets published sometime, I'm dying to read it as well!

[Aphelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having greatly enjoyed the first three books in the Charlie Madigan series, I ordered this one specially online (which is something I've never done) because it's out of print. I'm glad I did, but the ending is a little lackluster. Although this book wraps up two major plot threads - rescuing Siren Hank from Elysia and Charlie using her new Divine powers to full potential - there are several left for the next scheduled release, The Cold Light of Day, which - to my frustration and disappointment is on permanent hold.

As the effective series end, I wanted more. I'm not sure if Gay knew that this would be the last book when she wrote it (probably not, since she had cover art for the next book), but even if she didn't, there are problems with the characterization and pacing in this story. I really expected Charlie to go all out, use her powers to full effect (finally) and bust down the walls of Fiallan to destroy the Circe who enslaved her partner Hank as a child and are holding him captive again now in punishment for escaping in the past.

One of Charlie's strengths is her complete loyalty to those she loves and her chosen family, of which Hank is a major part. As her work partner and friend, who has turned into her love interest, Hank is incredibly important to Charlie. Which may be why she tried to do the right thing this time and formulate a proper plan for his rescue. The Chief sent in a delegation to negotiate for Hank's release, but when they return early having given him up for dead, Charlie goes herself.

To her surprise, the oracle Alessandra insists on coming along to help her. The two are prickly frenemies, but Sandra's exalted position earns them a place in the palace where Charlie pretends to be her bodyguard, giving them time to search for Hank. With only the mark on her shoulder to connect her to Hank, the search is long until Sandra gets them invited into the inner sanctum of the Circe. I wasn't sure about Alessandra at first, but her actions and bravery earned my respect.

Hank's torture is worse than Charlie ever imagined. The three witches known as the Circe draw their power from an ancient spell encircling the city. Once used for defense to repel invaders, for centuries the grid spell - anchored by four Sirens of warrior blood, from childhood to death - serves only to bolster the witches' own powers and grant them the seeming of immortality.

They have worked a vile black magic on Hank, tethering his soul to his naturally regenerating body, bringing him to the brink of death time and again only to deny him peace and begin the torture anew. It takes time for Charlie to wait on the delegation and get the paperwork for her visit to Elysia in order; time that must have seemed an eternity to Hank. It is no wonder he is half-mad by the time Charlie arrives.

Having had false memories implanted in his mind by the Circe, who seek to turn him against Charlie and use him to capture her (so they can figure out how to steal her power, recognizable from the ancient runes on Charlie's arm), Hank's reunion with Charlie is nothing like she'd hoped.

Major quibble:Hank and Charlie's relationship has slowly shifted into romance, and the sexual tension had been running high. But when they finally admit and act on their feelings, it's awkward - a quickie in a pool, where Charlie is uncharacteristically shy and Hank seems aloof. They are in a divine paradise outside of time, given to them as a refuge to heal by the thankful sea goddess of the Sirens - and this is what they do with it?

They had all the time and space to fully explore whatever it is between them (neither really seems to know, and they could have finally taken the time to figure it out!!!) but instead they have sex once and book it back to the real world, emerging shortly after they had left it (when months passed for both of them in paradise in a healing coma).

DISAPPOINTING. Waste of a magical goddess gift - never mind that they both obviously need time to process what's happened, and Hank could have used some relaxation and recuperation!

Although this book wasn't as good as I'd hoped, I still love the series and very much hope that Gay finishes it someday. Charlie is a great character, and this is solid Urban Fantasy series with unusual, gritty world building that really works. Recommended!

[nidah05 (SleepDreamWrite) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started reading this series, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it. But I found that the more I read each book, the more I love it.

In this fourth book, Charlie is on a mission: rescue her partner and friend Hank. Along the way she gets help from an unexpected someone.

From then on, you get more world building and character development as the series goes along.
I honestly would read more from this series, especially Charlie and co, otherwise, this was of course a really good installment.

Only complaint is the hair color on the cover. Shouldn't it be blond? Anyway, if you like urban fantasy, then give this series a read.