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Wolf's-own #4
Incendiary
"Book 4 of Wolf's-own"
Fen Jacin-rei finds himself again on the run after discovering the reality of what he is and why the gods won't let him go. His one source of support, Kamen Malick, is suddenly unavailable, and now hounded and chased by ghosts who want to drive him into insanity and keep him there, Fen will have to face life all alone.
Or maybe not. Old enemies and new allies seek to control Fen, now known as Kamen s Untouchable. It s going to take everything Fen's got to figure out who he can trust and who he should fear. It might take more than what Fen's got to discern who is even real.
Fen Jacin-rei finds himself again on the run after discovering the reality of what he is and why the gods won't let him go. His one source of support, Kamen Malick, is suddenly unavailable, and now hounded and chased by ghosts who want to drive him into insanity and keep him there, Fen will have to face life all alone.
Or maybe not. Old enemies and new allies seek to control Fen, now known as Kamen s Untouchable. It s going to take everything Fen's got to figure out who he can trust and who he should fear. It might take more than what Fen's got to discern who is even real.
300 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 2, 2012
I thought I heard a rythmic clanking while reading Wolf'-Own: Koan, and finally realized it sounded exactly like a roller coaster cranking to the top of a steep hill. The ride stilled for a moment, allowing the readers to catch a breath and build anticipation, and then...Wolf's-own: Incendiary.
Freefall, rumbling down the hill, slowing minutely, then plunging again, heart alternately lurching between throat and stomach. Wow! What a ride. Drama, angst galore (my drug of choice!), action, adventure, romance, and rivalry, wound through with the occasional shot of humor.
I'm in awe of how Carole Cummings strings words together into phrases of sheer beauty that aren't high-handed or condescensing--simply stunning. And the depth of emotion she captures with a single brow-lift or huffed, shuddering breath. The slower moving scenes don't drag, but when the action starts...what a rush!
I've seriously fallen in love with Fen and Malick, Samin, Shig, and all the other characters brought to startling life. The key players aren't truly good or bad. They're self-serving at times, loyal at others, but so full of the shades of gray that inhabit us all.
Beautiful, beautiful story. I've read the ebook version, but have ordered the print copies as well, for the collection of print books collectively known as "My prrreeeeccciiiooouuuussss!"
Only, now that I've finished the series, I can't help but feel a touch depressed, like I'm saying goodbye to old friends. Thankfully, Wolf-own lives forever on my shelf marked, "Favorites."
So very highly recommended. Bravo, Ms. Cummings, and thank you for letting me into the amazing world you have created.
Freefall, rumbling down the hill, slowing minutely, then plunging again, heart alternately lurching between throat and stomach. Wow! What a ride. Drama, angst galore (my drug of choice!), action, adventure, romance, and rivalry, wound through with the occasional shot of humor.
I'm in awe of how Carole Cummings strings words together into phrases of sheer beauty that aren't high-handed or condescensing--simply stunning. And the depth of emotion she captures with a single brow-lift or huffed, shuddering breath. The slower moving scenes don't drag, but when the action starts...what a rush!
I've seriously fallen in love with Fen and Malick, Samin, Shig, and all the other characters brought to startling life. The key players aren't truly good or bad. They're self-serving at times, loyal at others, but so full of the shades of gray that inhabit us all.
Beautiful, beautiful story. I've read the ebook version, but have ordered the print copies as well, for the collection of print books collectively known as "My prrreeeeccciiiooouuuussss!"
Only, now that I've finished the series, I can't help but feel a touch depressed, like I'm saying goodbye to old friends. Thankfully, Wolf-own lives forever on my shelf marked, "Favorites."
So very highly recommended. Bravo, Ms. Cummings, and thank you for letting me into the amazing world you have created.
June 18, 2012
See my awesome interview with Carole Cummings at The Armchair Reader.
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
**This review contains spoilers for the first three books -- Ghost, Weregild and Koan**
Well… wow.
This book and the ending to this epic story was very satisfying! The grunt work we had to pull in Koan finally came through in this book, as well as the turmoil the characters had to go through. Not only did I feel like this second chapter (Koan and Incendiary) was necessary to the story after what feels like an end after Weregild, but this series ended with a perfect amount of closure and possibility, of one very specific character's future that almost has to be a whole new series (though, no pressure, Carole!). I couldn't have been happier with the state the characters ended on their own personal journeys, though many still have much further to go, of course. In the end of this book I felt like I could relax and take a deep breath and that even though Fen's life is completely FUBAR (never was there a more appropriate term), that it's possible things might just go okay. Well, that's how I picture it anyway -- that way I'll sleep tonight!
There's so much I want to talk about, but I can't because it wouldn't be fair to spoiler those of you who love this series like I do and are reading along. But I think that, in my most cryptic manner possible, what makes this last book such a success is that while we're given completely new revelatory information, it doesn't feel cheap because it plays by the rules we've grown to know of throughout this series and in Fen's world -- manipulation, first and foremost… but by whom? Also, it's so fun to get to see all the dedication pay off for someone who rivals Frodo in endurance, even while batshit (as Morin likes to say). It isn't really about winning or losing, but the ability to make your own choices, and the way that Carole maneuvered the players so that something so impossible might happen was done quite well. Plus, I mean for godsakes, the man never has a cigarette when he needs one! I want to give one to him. If anyone, ANYONE deserves a cigarette, it's Fen.
Most of my biggest burning questions throughout the series have all in some way revolved around the existence and motivations of the gods. The information we receive about them is crucial in a straightforward way, it is information Fen must understand to complete his goal. But I also had a bit of a hard time while reading Koan, understanding just what being an Incendiary means in the vaguest sense, and in relation to a Catalyst. The motivations, though not surprising, and actions of the gods themselves were what helped me understand that.
I think that there isn't as much for me to talk about with these later installments, at least without giving anything away. I could happily chat along about how I loved it, but I think that the really crucial information about the characters and understanding who they really are comes in the first two books. And that never really changes. I've loved this series, and if Carole ever decides to extend it in the direction it is pointed, I'll definitely be there to read, just as I will everything she writes. And now that all the books are out, I'm hoping that some new readers will pick up this series! I'll definitely be reading it again, and I have a feeling that when I do I'll see a whole new meaning in every direction. I can't wait to find out what that is :)
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
**This review contains spoilers for the first three books -- Ghost, Weregild and Koan**
Well… wow.
This book and the ending to this epic story was very satisfying! The grunt work we had to pull in Koan finally came through in this book, as well as the turmoil the characters had to go through. Not only did I feel like this second chapter (Koan and Incendiary) was necessary to the story after what feels like an end after Weregild, but this series ended with a perfect amount of closure and possibility, of one very specific character's future that almost has to be a whole new series (though, no pressure, Carole!). I couldn't have been happier with the state the characters ended on their own personal journeys, though many still have much further to go, of course. In the end of this book I felt like I could relax and take a deep breath and that even though Fen's life is completely FUBAR (never was there a more appropriate term), that it's possible things might just go okay. Well, that's how I picture it anyway -- that way I'll sleep tonight!
There's so much I want to talk about, but I can't because it wouldn't be fair to spoiler those of you who love this series like I do and are reading along. But I think that, in my most cryptic manner possible, what makes this last book such a success is that while we're given completely new revelatory information, it doesn't feel cheap because it plays by the rules we've grown to know of throughout this series and in Fen's world -- manipulation, first and foremost… but by whom? Also, it's so fun to get to see all the dedication pay off for someone who rivals Frodo in endurance, even while batshit (as Morin likes to say). It isn't really about winning or losing, but the ability to make your own choices, and the way that Carole maneuvered the players so that something so impossible might happen was done quite well. Plus, I mean for godsakes, the man never has a cigarette when he needs one! I want to give one to him. If anyone, ANYONE deserves a cigarette, it's Fen.
Most of my biggest burning questions throughout the series have all in some way revolved around the existence and motivations of the gods. The information we receive about them is crucial in a straightforward way, it is information Fen must understand to complete his goal. But I also had a bit of a hard time while reading Koan, understanding just what being an Incendiary means in the vaguest sense, and in relation to a Catalyst. The motivations, though not surprising, and actions of the gods themselves were what helped me understand that.
I think that there isn't as much for me to talk about with these later installments, at least without giving anything away. I could happily chat along about how I loved it, but I think that the really crucial information about the characters and understanding who they really are comes in the first two books. And that never really changes. I've loved this series, and if Carole ever decides to extend it in the direction it is pointed, I'll definitely be there to read, just as I will everything she writes. And now that all the books are out, I'm hoping that some new readers will pick up this series! I'll definitely be reading it again, and I have a feeling that when I do I'll see a whole new meaning in every direction. I can't wait to find out what that is :)
July 12, 2012
5 Hearts
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
This story picks up where Koan left off, so obviously you need to read the entire series and yes, I am being serious. This is not a series that can be picked up in the middle. Fen finds himself in the middle of the biggest fight for his life and sanity than anything that has come before (honestly, everything before will look like a slight headache and a bit of an itch). Malick is still gone, people are after Fen either to recruit or to kill and his brothers are in danger.
Wow. An incredible end to the Wolf’s-own saga. Everything we have seen before culminates to an incredible ending where we see a little happiness finally, at long last, for Fen. Fen is still running, but now he knows everything and that everything might just push him that final inch into raging insanity. While Fen is finding the truth, his brothers and friends along with the Temshiel and maijin are fighting for their lives, as those that have hidden in the shadows come out to play.
Fen begins to come into his own in this book, as he begins to realize that he truly does have choices that he can make and no one, not even the Gods, can force him to do something he really doesn’t want to do. They may try to manipulate and coerce, but unless Fen really wants it, it isn’t going to happen. When Malick reappears you can basically feel the complete relief poring off Fen, but he is a little bit more solid at his core. Everything comes together beautifully and we have some fantastic battles and fights, some incredible malicious torture (go, Malick, go) and some of the most nasty, spiteful gods that we could ever see.
Nothing is missing in this story. Everything we have learned in the past and the hints we received are all made clear. There is nothing left to chance (although a short of Fen and Malick being happy would be cool). There are strings that are left dangling, but not for our beloved Fen and Malick. This story is well written and flows smoothly, the characters bring the story to life and the detail that we get feeds our imagination to a firestorm.
I have to recommend this to those who love high fantasy, danger, fights, magic, or have been there every step of the way through the rest of the series, this isn’t a story to miss and we catch a brief glimpse of happiness for Fen and Malick.
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
This story picks up where Koan left off, so obviously you need to read the entire series and yes, I am being serious. This is not a series that can be picked up in the middle. Fen finds himself in the middle of the biggest fight for his life and sanity than anything that has come before (honestly, everything before will look like a slight headache and a bit of an itch). Malick is still gone, people are after Fen either to recruit or to kill and his brothers are in danger.
Wow. An incredible end to the Wolf’s-own saga. Everything we have seen before culminates to an incredible ending where we see a little happiness finally, at long last, for Fen. Fen is still running, but now he knows everything and that everything might just push him that final inch into raging insanity. While Fen is finding the truth, his brothers and friends along with the Temshiel and maijin are fighting for their lives, as those that have hidden in the shadows come out to play.
Fen begins to come into his own in this book, as he begins to realize that he truly does have choices that he can make and no one, not even the Gods, can force him to do something he really doesn’t want to do. They may try to manipulate and coerce, but unless Fen really wants it, it isn’t going to happen. When Malick reappears you can basically feel the complete relief poring off Fen, but he is a little bit more solid at his core. Everything comes together beautifully and we have some fantastic battles and fights, some incredible malicious torture (go, Malick, go) and some of the most nasty, spiteful gods that we could ever see.
Nothing is missing in this story. Everything we have learned in the past and the hints we received are all made clear. There is nothing left to chance (although a short of Fen and Malick being happy would be cool). There are strings that are left dangling, but not for our beloved Fen and Malick. This story is well written and flows smoothly, the characters bring the story to life and the detail that we get feeds our imagination to a firestorm.
I have to recommend this to those who love high fantasy, danger, fights, magic, or have been there every step of the way through the rest of the series, this isn’t a story to miss and we catch a brief glimpse of happiness for Fen and Malick.
October 2, 2014
This review can also be found on my blog: A Match Made in Heaven
I really enjoyed this series, although I still never fully understood what was going on. The world building was too sloppy and the story too vast for me to grasp. There was endless mythology that was not given proper introduction. I think this series would benefit from some massive editing. The writing and grammar is fine, but it needs some serious restructuring. Although I absolutely adore the characters, especially Fen.
Fen absolutely won me over from the first chapter of book 1, but he just kept getting better and better. I started out in awe of him and his abilities. His composure, the dedication he put into everything he did. But as we got to know him more and more I saw his pain, his guilt, his strength and loyalty. Goodness, how could anyone not fall in love with him, who has every reason to fall apart, but who held on to every inch, fought with every breath?
Malick grew on me and I loved him almost as much as Fen by the end, although it took awhile. I never disliked him though. I mostly love his interactions with Fen. He is the only one giving Fen what he has always deserved. The loyalty, love, and dedication that he had always shown to others but had never received himself. Until Malick. I have to love Malick for that. He loves without reservation and no one has ever deserved it more than Fen.
I just wish that this series had focused more on the romance, since I couldn't get into the story that much. I wanted more of Fen and Malick, but unfortunately their relationship kept getting drawn out. I understand it would be difficult for Fen to make any lasting decisions in the state of mind he had been in. But in the end, although they are together, Fen still didn't really seem to know what he felt for Malick, and that was a bit disappointing to me. But Malick was absolutely lost in Fen since book 1. I love the love that Malick had for Fen. That is the kind of love I always look for in my books. My heart clenches and my stomach flutters just thinking about it. But it wasn't as satisfying as it would have been if it had been fully returned. But I will remember Fen forever.
I really enjoyed this series, although I still never fully understood what was going on. The world building was too sloppy and the story too vast for me to grasp. There was endless mythology that was not given proper introduction. I think this series would benefit from some massive editing. The writing and grammar is fine, but it needs some serious restructuring. Although I absolutely adore the characters, especially Fen.
Fen absolutely won me over from the first chapter of book 1, but he just kept getting better and better. I started out in awe of him and his abilities. His composure, the dedication he put into everything he did. But as we got to know him more and more I saw his pain, his guilt, his strength and loyalty. Goodness, how could anyone not fall in love with him, who has every reason to fall apart, but who held on to every inch, fought with every breath?
Malick grew on me and I loved him almost as much as Fen by the end, although it took awhile. I never disliked him though. I mostly love his interactions with Fen. He is the only one giving Fen what he has always deserved. The loyalty, love, and dedication that he had always shown to others but had never received himself. Until Malick. I have to love Malick for that. He loves without reservation and no one has ever deserved it more than Fen.
I just wish that this series had focused more on the romance, since I couldn't get into the story that much. I wanted more of Fen and Malick, but unfortunately their relationship kept getting drawn out. I understand it would be difficult for Fen to make any lasting decisions in the state of mind he had been in. But in the end, although they are together, Fen still didn't really seem to know what he felt for Malick, and that was a bit disappointing to me. But Malick was absolutely lost in Fen since book 1. I love the love that Malick had for Fen. That is the kind of love I always look for in my books. My heart clenches and my stomach flutters just thinking about it. But it wasn't as satisfying as it would have been if it had been fully returned. But I will remember Fen forever.
July 22, 2015
I decided to give this 3 stars though, as the second and third volume, I would correctly rate this 2.5 stars.
There was just so much angst and hurt and suffering for Jacin. I sometimes felt it was forced just to elicit from the reader as much compassion as possible. There were so many available, less painful solutions to any number of the predicaments Fen found himself in, and yet the author chose the most brutal one every time. And while I was pretty drawn to the plot, the way the characters acted kept me from falling in love with this. I was genuinely curious of the outcome of Malick, Fen, Shig, Joori, Morin, Samin's fate but the lengthy fragments where Fen argued with his Beishin or Caidi rather bored me.
And again, the author's preference to use metaphors had me squinting left and right trying to follow the discussion or understand what the characters were referring to.
I enjoyed the fighting. I enjoyed the surprising twists and turn in the plot. You know it's going to be an interesting book when it has a glossary of terms in the beginning. And the series itself has plenty of characters to make it diverse and a ton of things happening. I enjoyed the romantic and somewhat mushy bits towards the end. I will admit the series as a whole was very original and captivating. Too bad, some parts of it pushed me out of the story mood, rather than more deeply in.
There was just so much angst and hurt and suffering for Jacin. I sometimes felt it was forced just to elicit from the reader as much compassion as possible. There were so many available, less painful solutions to any number of the predicaments Fen found himself in, and yet the author chose the most brutal one every time. And while I was pretty drawn to the plot, the way the characters acted kept me from falling in love with this. I was genuinely curious of the outcome of Malick, Fen, Shig, Joori, Morin, Samin's fate but the lengthy fragments where Fen argued with his Beishin or Caidi rather bored me.
And again, the author's preference to use metaphors had me squinting left and right trying to follow the discussion or understand what the characters were referring to.
I enjoyed the fighting. I enjoyed the surprising twists and turn in the plot. You know it's going to be an interesting book when it has a glossary of terms in the beginning. And the series itself has plenty of characters to make it diverse and a ton of things happening. I enjoyed the romantic and somewhat mushy bits towards the end. I will admit the series as a whole was very original and captivating. Too bad, some parts of it pushed me out of the story mood, rather than more deeply in.
July 1, 2012
Super short review... will write more once I reread everything.
The reader's endurance pays off big time in the final installment. I won't talk about all the explanations, the motivations, the battles. I'll just say that Fen finally becomes what I hoped for him throughout the series, although under his own brand of batshit. XD
In fact, all of the characters have grown into/become what they needed to be, including Malick, Joori, Morin and Shig. I was very satisfied at the end, although I realized that now I have to reread the entire series to really absorb and enjoy all the details.
I was mightily amused by the fact that Malick got taller. XD
Would I follow Morin (and Fen and Malick and others) into the new adventure if Carole decided to write it for them? Sign me up!
The reader's endurance pays off big time in the final installment. I won't talk about all the explanations, the motivations, the battles. I'll just say that Fen finally becomes what I hoped for him throughout the series, although under his own brand of batshit. XD
In fact, all of the characters have grown into/become what they needed to be, including Malick, Joori, Morin and Shig. I was very satisfied at the end, although I realized that now I have to reread the entire series to really absorb and enjoy all the details.
I was mightily amused by the fact that Malick got taller. XD
Would I follow Morin (and Fen and Malick and others) into the new adventure if Carole decided to write it for them? Sign me up!
October 27, 2012
I'm always anxious when I start to get towards the end of a series of books such as these; hoping that the ending will be satisfying and well thought out. Incendiary is the 4th and final book of a series I have grown to absolutely adore and I was very happy with the conclusion.
Thanks Carole, for such beautifully written books. They are truly amazing and I feel there is still a lot more life in these characters yet.
Thanks Carole, for such beautifully written books. They are truly amazing and I feel there is still a lot more life in these characters yet.
December 16, 2012
4.5
I can finally sleep tonight...
I can finally sleep tonight...
July 25, 2013
This is a review for the entire Wolf's Own Series :
1.Ghost
Carole Cummings builds a world similar to feudal Japan where Gods behave just as treacherously as men, an immortal lives in the attic of a brothel and works as a part-time assassin together with a band of misfits, divine beings plot against each other, people with magic are oppressed and enslaved and throws in a main character who is not only Untouchable but going slowly insane in addition to being a dangerous assassin with a mission on his own.
The messy chronological order that keeps the reader traveling back and forth between the past and throws into light not only each characters' motives but also slowly uncover the plot beneath adding to the charm of the book.
The attraction in this book is that none of the character are perfect. They are faulty, broken, damaged - each with his or her own story to tell. An Untouchable who lost his family and betrayed by his first love, an immortal with past regrets and questionable morals, two sisters sold for blood, a soldier who served the wrong master, a brother who tries to love his untouchable twin, all of them seek repentance by trying to right the wrongs.
A fantasy tale with some weight and substance touched with a unique sense of humor.
2.Weregild
The tale continues, each faced with choices that they must make before they lose someone precious...
Fen continues on his quest to save his mother but is challenged by his own insanity. He despises being dependent on Malick but is left with no choice in order to protect his family. Malick tries hard not to acknowledge his love for Fen all the while putting his very soul at risk to save Fen's mind, Umeia falters in her trust and makes the choice to follow her heart instead.
Add to this the intricate plots of Asai, Yakuli and Husao, the division of loyalties between Malick and Umeia, the political situation in Adan you get the Second book of Wolf's-own drawing the conclusion to the first part of the tale.
3.Koan
The God's are not done with Fen yet...
Malick's pack of wolf misfits arrive at Tambalon only to find Fen's sanity failing him yet again. Without a purpose to guide him Fen becomes apathetic living because he cannot bring himself to take his own life. Malick acknowledges his feelings towards Fen and tries to keep him sane but the things that he isn't saying might prove to be dangerous not only to Fen but also to those around.
Enter into the scene banpair and self-serving Temshiel complicating the situation. And when Malick goes into spirit it leaves Samin and company without directions and Fen hanging into his sanity with his fingertips.
4.Incendiary
A fitting end to the series where the reader discovers not only the treachery but also the cruelty of the Six Gods...
An intricate plot reveals Fen's identity, his true purpose and his choices in the past. Every character is now on a run against time unable to decide whom to trust without Malick.
Fen must find his own way to fulfill his purpose without Malick to help him along. Fen must deal with the illusions of his own mind, Morin is left to choose between his brothers, Joori must realize that his twin is no longer the boy he knew, Samin must find a way to protect his pack and Shig must learn to live without her sister and the spirits.
In this final book we see Fen rising through his desperation to face treacherous Gods and Malick fully accepting his role as Kamen to not only to save his love but also his soul and restore the Balance. And the two of them embrace their Fate and their roles in it realizing that they love each other - in their own unconventional ways and learns that somethings are not for trade.
Over all a brilliant series with exceptional characters, excellent world building and intriguing plot all covered with Anne Cain's delicious cover-art.
1.Ghost
Carole Cummings builds a world similar to feudal Japan where Gods behave just as treacherously as men, an immortal lives in the attic of a brothel and works as a part-time assassin together with a band of misfits, divine beings plot against each other, people with magic are oppressed and enslaved and throws in a main character who is not only Untouchable but going slowly insane in addition to being a dangerous assassin with a mission on his own.
The messy chronological order that keeps the reader traveling back and forth between the past and throws into light not only each characters' motives but also slowly uncover the plot beneath adding to the charm of the book.
The attraction in this book is that none of the character are perfect. They are faulty, broken, damaged - each with his or her own story to tell. An Untouchable who lost his family and betrayed by his first love, an immortal with past regrets and questionable morals, two sisters sold for blood, a soldier who served the wrong master, a brother who tries to love his untouchable twin, all of them seek repentance by trying to right the wrongs.
A fantasy tale with some weight and substance touched with a unique sense of humor.
2.Weregild
The tale continues, each faced with choices that they must make before they lose someone precious...
Fen continues on his quest to save his mother but is challenged by his own insanity. He despises being dependent on Malick but is left with no choice in order to protect his family. Malick tries hard not to acknowledge his love for Fen all the while putting his very soul at risk to save Fen's mind, Umeia falters in her trust and makes the choice to follow her heart instead.
Add to this the intricate plots of Asai, Yakuli and Husao, the division of loyalties between Malick and Umeia, the political situation in Adan you get the Second book of Wolf's-own drawing the conclusion to the first part of the tale.
3.Koan
The God's are not done with Fen yet...
Malick's pack of wolf misfits arrive at Tambalon only to find Fen's sanity failing him yet again. Without a purpose to guide him Fen becomes apathetic living because he cannot bring himself to take his own life. Malick acknowledges his feelings towards Fen and tries to keep him sane but the things that he isn't saying might prove to be dangerous not only to Fen but also to those around.
Enter into the scene banpair and self-serving Temshiel complicating the situation. And when Malick goes into spirit it leaves Samin and company without directions and Fen hanging into his sanity with his fingertips.
4.Incendiary
A fitting end to the series where the reader discovers not only the treachery but also the cruelty of the Six Gods...
An intricate plot reveals Fen's identity, his true purpose and his choices in the past. Every character is now on a run against time unable to decide whom to trust without Malick.
Fen must find his own way to fulfill his purpose without Malick to help him along. Fen must deal with the illusions of his own mind, Morin is left to choose between his brothers, Joori must realize that his twin is no longer the boy he knew, Samin must find a way to protect his pack and Shig must learn to live without her sister and the spirits.
In this final book we see Fen rising through his desperation to face treacherous Gods and Malick fully accepting his role as Kamen to not only to save his love but also his soul and restore the Balance. And the two of them embrace their Fate and their roles in it realizing that they love each other - in their own unconventional ways and learns that somethings are not for trade.
Over all a brilliant series with exceptional characters, excellent world building and intriguing plot all covered with Anne Cain's delicious cover-art.
January 5, 2014
Synopsis:
Fen Jacin-rei finds himself again on the run after discovering the reality of what he is and why the gods won t let him go. His one source of support, Kamen Malick, is suddenly unavailable, and now hounded and chased by ghosts who want to drive him into insanity and keep him there, Fen will have to face life all alone.
Or maybe not. Old enemies and new allies seek to control Fen, now known as Kamen s Untouchable. It s going to take everything Fen s got to figure out who he can trust and who he should fear. It might take more than what Fen s got to discern who is even real.
My Thoughts:
This book is just as crazy as the rest. Book 1 is definitely the most sedate of the series. This one sets about punching us in the face with revelations. Hell, it punches the characters in the face with revelations, too. About themselves and each other.
Fen is basically still running about with no direction in this book, but he pretty much holds his own considering wtf he's been up against. We learn a lot about Fen's past lives and why he has had so many. More than one character has mentioned before that he's lived too many lives and when you find out the why of it, you just can't help but have your heartbreak for him once again. A lot about Jacin suddenly makes sense once the events of that first life are put into context. All I can say is that Raven is one stone-cold son of a bitch. Somehow, Jacin survives it all. It takes him forever to do, but he finally admits that he needs Malick. And just like that, Malick is back. He's gone for half the book, but he comes back ready to throw down and he soooo does. Malick can be so scary at times, but it's so fucking hot that I don't care.
Shig gets plenty of her own POVs, too and it's nice to get to know Shig's thoughts. She's feeling pretty restless and not a little bit resentful of the Fen brothers and no longer feeling the loyalty to Malick that she used to have. She ends up with her own decisions to make and I think it was for the best that things go the way that they do for her.
Samin was feeling overwhelmed with playing leader while Malick was gone, but he did a pretty good job of it. And he told some immortals off which made me want to stand up and clap. I love that he feels fatherly towards Morin and Joori. You can tell they appreciate it, especially Morin. Morin really comes into his own and has is own role to play as one of Wolf's-own. Joori still had a lot of growing up to do. He has his moments where he does the right thing during those times where Morin tells him to just let Jacin be, but it isn't driven home for him until the end of the book. He finally gets to a place where he cannot pretend anymore and he doesn't like it, but he does finally accept it.
The way that things play out for Malick and Jacin came as a surprise to me. They managed to pull off a bit of a coup. It doesn't make Jacin any less out of danger, but he has real choice now. Something Malick has been trying to push on him from basically the start of the series. And he finally comes to terms with that. He also comes to terms with Malick's love and whether or not he deserves it. He even finally makes his own confession in his own way. And that was a perfect way to end the book. The gods will never be done with Jacin, but he and Malik won't be bullied like before. I wouldn't mind a follow up book just to get a chance of how some other things play out, but I appreciate that Carole didn't drag out the series. We get a HEA and that works for me.
Fen Jacin-rei finds himself again on the run after discovering the reality of what he is and why the gods won t let him go. His one source of support, Kamen Malick, is suddenly unavailable, and now hounded and chased by ghosts who want to drive him into insanity and keep him there, Fen will have to face life all alone.
Or maybe not. Old enemies and new allies seek to control Fen, now known as Kamen s Untouchable. It s going to take everything Fen s got to figure out who he can trust and who he should fear. It might take more than what Fen s got to discern who is even real.
My Thoughts:
This book is just as crazy as the rest. Book 1 is definitely the most sedate of the series. This one sets about punching us in the face with revelations. Hell, it punches the characters in the face with revelations, too. About themselves and each other.
Fen is basically still running about with no direction in this book, but he pretty much holds his own considering wtf he's been up against. We learn a lot about Fen's past lives and why he has had so many. More than one character has mentioned before that he's lived too many lives and when you find out the why of it, you just can't help but have your heartbreak for him once again. A lot about Jacin suddenly makes sense once the events of that first life are put into context. All I can say is that Raven is one stone-cold son of a bitch. Somehow, Jacin survives it all. It takes him forever to do, but he finally admits that he needs Malick. And just like that, Malick is back. He's gone for half the book, but he comes back ready to throw down and he soooo does. Malick can be so scary at times, but it's so fucking hot that I don't care.
Shig gets plenty of her own POVs, too and it's nice to get to know Shig's thoughts. She's feeling pretty restless and not a little bit resentful of the Fen brothers and no longer feeling the loyalty to Malick that she used to have. She ends up with her own decisions to make and I think it was for the best that things go the way that they do for her.
Samin was feeling overwhelmed with playing leader while Malick was gone, but he did a pretty good job of it. And he told some immortals off which made me want to stand up and clap. I love that he feels fatherly towards Morin and Joori. You can tell they appreciate it, especially Morin. Morin really comes into his own and has is own role to play as one of Wolf's-own. Joori still had a lot of growing up to do. He has his moments where he does the right thing during those times where Morin tells him to just let Jacin be, but it isn't driven home for him until the end of the book. He finally gets to a place where he cannot pretend anymore and he doesn't like it, but he does finally accept it.
The way that things play out for Malick and Jacin came as a surprise to me. They managed to pull off a bit of a coup. It doesn't make Jacin any less out of danger, but he has real choice now. Something Malick has been trying to push on him from basically the start of the series. And he finally comes to terms with that. He also comes to terms with Malick's love and whether or not he deserves it. He even finally makes his own confession in his own way. And that was a perfect way to end the book. The gods will never be done with Jacin, but he and Malik won't be bullied like before. I wouldn't mind a follow up book just to get a chance of how some other things play out, but I appreciate that Carole didn't drag out the series. We get a HEA and that works for me.
August 6, 2016
Since I consider ‘Wolf’s Own – Koan’ and ‘Wolf’s Own – Incendiary’ to be one book, this review applies to both.
Again, as always, Carole’s prose is delicious. The woman can turn a phrase and paint a picture with words. And she can also create extremely complex, deep, and tortured characters. This continues the story of Jacin, the tragic and tortured hero, and Malick, the demi-god who loves him, and the family that has formed around both of them. And these two books drag us even deeper into the tortured soul that is Jacin’s. So deep that it is even darker than the first two books, and we spend a lot of time in Jacin’s head. Doubly so because Malick, who provided a droll, if dark, sense of humor in the first two books, is missing for much of the time. And we get glimpses of other, equally complex characters as well as their stories continue, but Jacin’s is the center and heart of these books. Unbelievably, Jacin suffers even more than in the first two books, but at last he finds his center and grabs hold of his own destiny instead of being dragged unwillingly through, or behind, his own life.
Both books soar and spin when Malick and Jacin are together. Carole manages to generate a lot of passion and heat with these two without being explicit, and I love the humor that does manage to break through the darkness now and again. Another of her many talents. But Carole is at her best when she is inside her characters’ heads. She is, in fact, so good at it that I had to take “comfort reading” breaks to pull myself out of Jacin’s dark drama, but that is just the nature of her skill.
These are darker than my usual read, but Carole’s writing is always worth the walk on the shadowy side for me.
And the cover art on both of these is to die for.
Again, as always, Carole’s prose is delicious. The woman can turn a phrase and paint a picture with words. And she can also create extremely complex, deep, and tortured characters. This continues the story of Jacin, the tragic and tortured hero, and Malick, the demi-god who loves him, and the family that has formed around both of them. And these two books drag us even deeper into the tortured soul that is Jacin’s. So deep that it is even darker than the first two books, and we spend a lot of time in Jacin’s head. Doubly so because Malick, who provided a droll, if dark, sense of humor in the first two books, is missing for much of the time. And we get glimpses of other, equally complex characters as well as their stories continue, but Jacin’s is the center and heart of these books. Unbelievably, Jacin suffers even more than in the first two books, but at last he finds his center and grabs hold of his own destiny instead of being dragged unwillingly through, or behind, his own life.
Both books soar and spin when Malick and Jacin are together. Carole manages to generate a lot of passion and heat with these two without being explicit, and I love the humor that does manage to break through the darkness now and again. Another of her many talents. But Carole is at her best when she is inside her characters’ heads. She is, in fact, so good at it that I had to take “comfort reading” breaks to pull myself out of Jacin’s dark drama, but that is just the nature of her skill.
These are darker than my usual read, but Carole’s writing is always worth the walk on the shadowy side for me.
And the cover art on both of these is to die for.
October 21, 2012
Masterpiece... Or at least pretty damn close... This series made use of the whole emotional spectrum, seems like, and managed to pull those very same emotions out of its reader.
Yes, it was frustrating; when Jacin just wouldn't get it through his bloody skull or when the riddles just seemed to build upon more riddles – especially those of a character's own making, sometimes frustration was just there because the story seemed to move so slow you wanted to skip a page or two to get where you wanted to be. Now, afterward, I can say the pace was a good fit for the story being told, something not many authors often accomplish, which I think made the pace at first very frustrating.
It was also heartrending, joyous, heartwarming and melting. You couldn't help but feel something for most of the characters, good or bad. They just... lived... rather a bit like how Mii-daichiseyh came back so to speak..
Well, lastly, I would recommend reading the whole series in one go, which is pretty obvious now that the final book has been released. Not that they haven't done a very great job with the releases, but still... I read book one and two together and then waited till four was out until I started with three. Just reading one book and then stopping for a while wouldn't do the story justice I believe. Also, it going to need some adjusting to get used to the way things are told and the many shifts in perspectives, but it is definitely worth it!
Yes, it was frustrating; when Jacin just wouldn't get it through his bloody skull or when the riddles just seemed to build upon more riddles – especially those of a character's own making, sometimes frustration was just there because the story seemed to move so slow you wanted to skip a page or two to get where you wanted to be. Now, afterward, I can say the pace was a good fit for the story being told, something not many authors often accomplish, which I think made the pace at first very frustrating.
It was also heartrending, joyous, heartwarming and melting. You couldn't help but feel something for most of the characters, good or bad. They just... lived... rather a bit like how Mii-daichiseyh came back so to speak..
Well, lastly, I would recommend reading the whole series in one go, which is pretty obvious now that the final book has been released. Not that they haven't done a very great job with the releases, but still... I read book one and two together and then waited till four was out until I started with three. Just reading one book and then stopping for a while wouldn't do the story justice I believe. Also, it going to need some adjusting to get used to the way things are told and the many shifts in perspectives, but it is definitely worth it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2014
What a conclusion to the series!
Like Malick, the author just never lets up! This book was like a roller-coaster without any downs in the plot, only twists, turns and up, up, up! The tension was nearly unbearable, each scene was so intense, so emotional.. A fantastic series, truly.
Please, Carole, write some more!
Like Malick, the author just never lets up! This book was like a roller-coaster without any downs in the plot, only twists, turns and up, up, up! The tension was nearly unbearable, each scene was so intense, so emotional.. A fantastic series, truly.
Please, Carole, write some more!
June 23, 2012
Finally, we get the solution to all the mysterious goings-on. Reality and Imagination intersect once more, but, I was happy to see, at the end it all gets explained and resolved.
A truly epic series, these books challenged my ability to hold on (patiently or otherwise) to find out what was the real story. My confusion, unfortunately, stood in the way of real enjoyment, but the language used and the concepts presented were interesting enough to keep me reading. That certainly says something!
A truly epic series, these books challenged my ability to hold on (patiently or otherwise) to find out what was the real story. My confusion, unfortunately, stood in the way of real enjoyment, but the language used and the concepts presented were interesting enough to keep me reading. That certainly says something!
June 23, 2012
Best Ending Ever! I really wanted to savor this read...I wanted to draw it out all weekend but Mal and the guys wouldn't let me. So...suggestions for follow ups (or things I would wish for if I was sitting on Santa's lap...and disturbingly, if you spell check Santa one of your options is Satan? Really?) Ummm, let's see... a book for Samin and a book for Shig and a book for Morin and a book for Joori and a book for...
June 11, 2013
It pains me to give this only three stars. The writing is beautiful and I bow down to the mind from which this complex world/story sprang. But ultimately, this felt a bit like work to get through. I didn't have the patience to follow everything and the pain & suffering went on for the entire series with really no relief. I do, however, look forward to whatever comes next from Ms. Cummings.
June 19, 2012
I wanna kill some darlings for this author, far too much storyline in the head of one of the main characters. As soon as the storyline runs in the real world of the book it is tight and adventurous.
December 4, 2013
4.5 Stars.
That's was a beautiful ending. What a way to go :)
That's was a beautiful ending. What a way to go :)
March 22, 2017
Before I get to the actual reviews, how cool are these titles? After I reviewed the second book (Weregild), I realized we never learned what the title meant. I thought it was some made-up, fictional word from the story. But nope! "Weregild, also known as man price, was a value placed on every being and piece of property." -- what's the value of a human? Which was a theme of the story! Same thing with Koan, at first I thought it was a word made up for the story (since there were a number of those), but nope! "A kōan is a story, dialogue, question, or statement, which is used in Zen practice to provoke the "great doubt"." -- Once more, that was so perfect for the theme of the third book!
Anyway, on to the review. I wish I had reviewed the third one after I finished it, but since I started the fourth one the same night, I never did. Bad me! Especially because now I can only say OH MY GOD I LOVED IT SO MUCH! I read all the books in a row, and the first three all ran together in my mind.
The first three were about the people, the two main characters especially. Malick, who is a supernatural [spoiler for the first book], and Fen who is... a hell of a mess. The first three books were focused on the two men, how they were slowly coming together, and the boundless issues around them. I loved every single minute of these book. I made so much extra reading time in my life so I could read more of them!
How much did I like these books? Never before in my life have I woken up in the morning and my very first waking thought was "I want to read more". I feel like I knew these characters. I loved them so dearly!
While it pains me to say, while I loved the first three books endlessly, the last one didn't work for me. This is going to sound like the most stupid reason for not liking a book, but: There was too much plot. I loved the first three books because they were about the people, the two men. The final book was all plot plot plot nonstop plot. It felt like a completely different book than the first three. This isn't a fault of the book, and going by Goodreads reviews, my opinion is very much in the minority. It's just I wanted a story more like the first three, and instead this was a giant plotty book (explaining the backstory of Fen, which was good to learn! But it felt like we learned it at the expense of a more personal story, if that makes sense).
I do suspect I would have liked it more if I hadn't read all four straight through. And I strongly, STRONGLY recommend the whole series anyway, even though the end of it didn't work for me personally. Please don't let me dislike of the final book put you off! It's a wonderful series! Some of the best books I've ever read!
The author has written a bunch of other books, and I intend to read them all.
Anyway, on to the review. I wish I had reviewed the third one after I finished it, but since I started the fourth one the same night, I never did. Bad me! Especially because now I can only say OH MY GOD I LOVED IT SO MUCH! I read all the books in a row, and the first three all ran together in my mind.
The first three were about the people, the two main characters especially. Malick, who is a supernatural [spoiler for the first book], and Fen who is... a hell of a mess. The first three books were focused on the two men, how they were slowly coming together, and the boundless issues around them. I loved every single minute of these book. I made so much extra reading time in my life so I could read more of them!
How much did I like these books? Never before in my life have I woken up in the morning and my very first waking thought was "I want to read more". I feel like I knew these characters. I loved them so dearly!
While it pains me to say, while I loved the first three books endlessly, the last one didn't work for me. This is going to sound like the most stupid reason for not liking a book, but: There was too much plot. I loved the first three books because they were about the people, the two men. The final book was all plot plot plot nonstop plot. It felt like a completely different book than the first three. This isn't a fault of the book, and going by Goodreads reviews, my opinion is very much in the minority. It's just I wanted a story more like the first three, and instead this was a giant plotty book (explaining the backstory of Fen, which was good to learn! But it felt like we learned it at the expense of a more personal story, if that makes sense).
I do suspect I would have liked it more if I hadn't read all four straight through. And I strongly, STRONGLY recommend the whole series anyway, even though the end of it didn't work for me personally. Please don't let me dislike of the final book put you off! It's a wonderful series! Some of the best books I've ever read!
The author has written a bunch of other books, and I intend to read them all.
February 9, 2018
A decent story that ultimately resolves the series to a reasonable point. It can get too full of itself though in esoteric plots and metaphysical meanings. Those drag down the story because they are not explained in simple enough terms to make sense. Ultimately, the reader has to simply take some parts on faith, accept they are completely incomprehensible and continue on with the story hoping the lost parts don't end up being particularly important.
July 26, 2017
A touch more world building in the early part of the series, give me a better idea about the gods for example, and a more resolved ending would have pushed this to a 5. The ending made me think there should be more books here.
November 6, 2022
Unlike after the second book, this didn't feel like an end. Where is Shig's and Joorie's story? Where is Morin's story? Not to mention I want more Jacin and Malick.
A lot of character growth in this one, but an awfully lot of open questions for a last book in a series as well.
A lot of character growth in this one, but an awfully lot of open questions for a last book in a series as well.
November 14, 2017
Hands down one of the best series I've ever read. I adored all of these characters and this love story. Gahhh! Will definitely be rereading in the future.
December 19, 2018
Eye opening, feel like this world can continue for quite a few more books, 'cause it's so awesome.
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January 17, 2019
What a ride! ...I’ll miss the world and the characters. It feels like their story will never run out of adventure and challenges.
July 23, 2017
** This review is word-for-word as the review for the Wolf's Own Bundle **
POV: 3rd, multi-POV
Star rating: ★★★☆☆
Sadly, again we have an ending that is not really an ending. There's clearly more to come, much more, and I'm not sure how I feel about that. Honestly, right now, I kind of wish I'd stopped at the end of book 2 and never read any further. Because, although I love the moments where Morin got his big part and Malick and Fen's quiet moments together, these last two books in the series didn't feel like they had the same people as the first two.
Joori, for me, became a royal pain in the ass within this book especially, so blind to everything that mattered that it became a little ridiculous. Meanwhile, Morin had some kind of 'power' that wasn't explained or explored or even mentioned until the very end. And that damned fish still makes no sense! If it was merely the symbolism of how Jacin and Joori are the same as two of those deadly fish then, sorry, but I already knew that and I didn't need a bloody showdown between two fish to tell me it.
When it comes to POV, we get the usual, only with the added POV of Hitsuke, the most important and powerful Incendiary of history. The revelations about him, concerning Jacin, also feel a little too coincidental and unbelievable, unlike the twists and turns within the first two books that were surprising and felt natural when the links were made. This just feels too much like trying too hard to make Jacin out to be something new and unexpectedly but insanely important.
Unfortunately, this book didn't change my feelings about book 3. The storytelling and worldbuilding was great, as always, but it was the plot itself which felt too forced and too unnatural for the characters. The fact that Malick was missing for 80% of the story didn't help.
And, one more thing that really bugs me, is the way that everyone jumps down Malick's throat for being selfish and blinded by Jacin, for being bad for him and trying to control him. No one but Jacin and maybe Morin actually acknowledge all that he does for Jacin and no one thanks him for it or apologises when their interference only proves just how much sanity Malick gives to Jacin when they're together. I actually got really sick of everyone – Imara, Dakimo, and even Shig – laying all this crap onto Malick for trying to protect Jacin even from himself, without once admitting they were wrong or that he had done the best thing for Jacin. It felt too much like everyone but Malick, Samin, Morin and Joori forgot that Jacin was a living breathing person before he became anything he later proved to be. The fact that it was never acknowledged, either, just made me wonder what the point was? Because there was all of this unnecessary drama about it that never went anywhere.
For me, I just have to wonder what the point of these last two books were. It would have been utter perfectly for me if book 2 had ended on the boat to Tambelon, with Malick and Jacin all curled up in a blanket on deck, having the conversation that ends book 4. Because, at least that way, I wouldn't have had to watch characters I loved lead this weird, unnatural life that made no sense for months on end, while reaching the exact same conclusion in the end, only with a lead into more books to come.
~
Favourite Quote
“Before Malick could reply, Fen's hand came up and gripped his arm. “No, wait, not here,” he mumbled then sagged even further into Malick's chest. “All the shitty things always happen in alleys.””
“There was probably something very wrong with the fact that an exchange of death threats made Malick all warm and fuzzy, but there it was.”
POV: 3rd, multi-POV
Star rating: ★★★☆☆
Sadly, again we have an ending that is not really an ending. There's clearly more to come, much more, and I'm not sure how I feel about that. Honestly, right now, I kind of wish I'd stopped at the end of book 2 and never read any further. Because, although I love the moments where Morin got his big part and Malick and Fen's quiet moments together, these last two books in the series didn't feel like they had the same people as the first two.
Joori, for me, became a royal pain in the ass within this book especially, so blind to everything that mattered that it became a little ridiculous. Meanwhile, Morin had some kind of 'power' that wasn't explained or explored or even mentioned until the very end. And that damned fish still makes no sense! If it was merely the symbolism of how Jacin and Joori are the same as two of those deadly fish then, sorry, but I already knew that and I didn't need a bloody showdown between two fish to tell me it.
When it comes to POV, we get the usual, only with the added POV of Hitsuke, the most important and powerful Incendiary of history. The revelations about him, concerning Jacin, also feel a little too coincidental and unbelievable, unlike the twists and turns within the first two books that were surprising and felt natural when the links were made. This just feels too much like trying too hard to make Jacin out to be something new and unexpectedly but insanely important.
Unfortunately, this book didn't change my feelings about book 3. The storytelling and worldbuilding was great, as always, but it was the plot itself which felt too forced and too unnatural for the characters. The fact that Malick was missing for 80% of the story didn't help.
And, one more thing that really bugs me, is the way that everyone jumps down Malick's throat for being selfish and blinded by Jacin, for being bad for him and trying to control him. No one but Jacin and maybe Morin actually acknowledge all that he does for Jacin and no one thanks him for it or apologises when their interference only proves just how much sanity Malick gives to Jacin when they're together. I actually got really sick of everyone – Imara, Dakimo, and even Shig – laying all this crap onto Malick for trying to protect Jacin even from himself, without once admitting they were wrong or that he had done the best thing for Jacin. It felt too much like everyone but Malick, Samin, Morin and Joori forgot that Jacin was a living breathing person before he became anything he later proved to be. The fact that it was never acknowledged, either, just made me wonder what the point was? Because there was all of this unnecessary drama about it that never went anywhere.
For me, I just have to wonder what the point of these last two books were. It would have been utter perfectly for me if book 2 had ended on the boat to Tambelon, with Malick and Jacin all curled up in a blanket on deck, having the conversation that ends book 4. Because, at least that way, I wouldn't have had to watch characters I loved lead this weird, unnatural life that made no sense for months on end, while reaching the exact same conclusion in the end, only with a lead into more books to come.
~
Favourite Quote
“Before Malick could reply, Fen's hand came up and gripped his arm. “No, wait, not here,” he mumbled then sagged even further into Malick's chest. “All the shitty things always happen in alleys.””
“There was probably something very wrong with the fact that an exchange of death threats made Malick all warm and fuzzy, but there it was.”
February 13, 2017
I loved this series. Carole Cummings excels at depicting tortured characters, and the reader becomes completely immersed in her world. As the fourth book in the series, Incendiary does not disappoint. I recommend this book to anyone who appreciates well written, complex characters, engrossing worlds, and engaging action.
November 15, 2014
Loved this book! Missing Malick and Fen already. Incediary was a really complex story,confusing at times, which made me have to re read sections to understand what was happening. The story moved at a rollcoaster pace and Fen suffers a crazy heartbreaking amount. But the moments of stilness and intimacy between Malick and Fen were what made the Wolf's Own series so special for me. The connection between these guys was just so beautiful. Good Job Carole. A great end to a super series...I do hope you return to write more on Malick and Fen one day...I'm itching for more!
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