A paranormal category romance novella from Entangled's Covet imprint...
She's not immune to his charms...
Paranormal detective Kiera "Mac" McLoughlin has a serial killer on her hands. Two women are dead-naked, and no obvious cause of death. Aidan Byrne, an investigator with the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency, confirms her suspicions. He's hot, enigmatic, and just so damned charming. Almost charming enough to distract Mac...until her female partner becomes the killer's next victim.
Now Mac's off the case and sneaking behind her department's back to pursue the investigation with Aidan-and desperately trying to fight her attraction to him. Each lead is starting to form the same conclusion: incubi, who have been extinct for at least century. But Aidan has a few secrets he's hiding. And as Mac struggles to keep her libido in check, she wonders if she's falling for Aidan...or falling for a killer.
Previously released on Entangled's Ever After imprint - January 2012
Tiffany Allee currently lives in Phoenix, AZ, by way of Chicago and Denver, and is happily married to a secret romantic. She spends her days working in Corporate America while daydreaming about sexy heroes, ass-kicking heroines, and interesting ways to kill people (for her books, of course). Her nights are reserved for writing and bothering her husband and cats (according to them). Her passions include reading, chocolate, travel, wine, and family.
I really enjoyed this one I find that you can really never go wrong when it comes to Entangled authors.
I usually enjoy books that have creatures of all shapes and sizes in the paranormal world. Add in a tough female lead and a sexy man and you can't go wrong with this short, sexy, and fun read. This is the first I have read from Tiffany Allee and I can't wait to read book 2 and whatever else she writes, she has a new fan!
Thank you to Entangled for providing me with a review copy I genuinely loved this one! You guys rock!
I received this book from Entangled authors,for free, in exchange of an honest review.
What I liked about the book: A half-banshee as a female lead. Other than and the other books in this series, I've rarely read about a Banshee MC. The book was the right length and the story didn't seem like it was being dragged out. The author introduces us to an interesting world and I know the series will only get better as it proceeds.
What I didn't like: What Aidan was-not a mystery at all and I dunno how Mac seemed not to see it when practically every woman was throwing herself at him. A lot of world-building details-especially about the rich vampire clan- were included in the book that had nothing to do with the story. Maybe they were added as a starting point for future books? Instead, I would have liked to know more about Mac's family-she never visits them in the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Kiera McLoughlin, or Mac, as her friends call her is a half banshee. She can kill or stun with a scream. But that’s only one aspect of her personality. She’s also a tough as nails cop with a softer side for romance novels. When her partner is killed by a mysterious otherworlder, she’ll do anything in her power to find the person, or perhaps sucubi responsible. Even if that means working with Aidan Byrne, a fellow cop from another agency whose good looks drawn her in despite her own reservations.
Banshee Charmer is a well-crafted legal thriller with its own system of rules for the magical creatures that inhabit this alternate world. Fast paced with sexy tension and a dangerous edge, it kept me on the edge of my computer chair, guessing just who Aidan Byrne was. The twists caught me off guard, and the chemistry between Kiera and Aidan sizzles. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, Tiffany Allee threw a curve ball, and the story escalates into an intense conclusion that kept me reading until the very end.
Holy cow, I love this world. It reminds me of a cross between LK Hamilton's vampire world and Kim Harrison's witches, but add in a completely new to me element--Banshees.
Mac is a tough gal that keeps everything in. I love that about her. She's methodical even, which makes her even more fun to read. Yes, there was a time or two that I wanted to whisper to her that she was being too trusting for a cop, but she's a smart cookie and can handle herself. Totally a kick-a$$ heroine. :)
And the hero...well...I loved him from the beginning. The charming grin. The dark hair and blue eyes. His concern for Mac's well being. Everything about him enticed me. Aidan is a man of mystery and strength--two of my favorite things. Oh, and he's uber hot in bed. Love that.
She's created a wonderful para world with all the fun things that you don't see in the average Para/UF book. That's probably why I loved it so much. I want "different" and Ms. Allee gave it to me. Thank you!
Banshee Charmer is the first book in a new series and I couldn't be happier that there will be more coming! In her debut novel Tiffany Allee not only managed to captivate me with her exciting and vivid storytelling but she won me over and made me an enthusiastic fan of her new From the Files of the Otherworlder series.
The universe of Banshee Charmer is quite unique: supernatural species are "out" but still some (or rather most) of the humans see them as "freaks" and are wary and scared of the unknown. Kiera McLoughlin, called Mac by her colleagues and friends, is a cop: a homicide detective, oh yeah and a half-banshee as well, working in the special paranormal unit of the Chicago Police Department or "Freaks Division" as the others call it. Mac is working along witches, vampires and other creatures of the night, tracking goblins, incubi and other paranormal criminals. She is just in the middle of investigating a serial killer case when her partner is murdered and Aidan an agent from the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency (OWEA) - which is the paranormal equivalent of the FBI - appears to offer his help in catching the killer.
The air between Mac and Aidan sizzles constantly (oh my that first kissing scene between them was such an incredible off-the-charts-goosebump-inducing-heartrate-accelerating first kiss whew!), and it's a credit to Tiffany Allee's vivid writing that Aidan's potent charm and charisma is strong enough to transcend the pages and have the reader fall under his spell even by merely reading about him. Both Mac and Aidan were well fleshed out despite the short length of the novel and I can't wait to read the next books to learn even more about them.
Banshee Charmer combines the best of police procedural, paranormal romance and urban fantasy genres: the mystery and Mac and Aidan's chase to uncover it was thrilling, the characters are layered and interesting, the world-building rich and unique, Tiffany Allee's writing flows easily and her narrative is descriptive and detailed enough without being weighed down. Her story captivated me and I gobbled up Banshee Charmer without coming up for a break.
Verdict: Banshee Charmer is a gripping, exciting debut to a fantastic new series! The mystery plot was intriguing, the world-building complex and the love story sizzling. Perfect mix and great story, I loved Banshee Charmer and I'm impatiently looking forward to the sequel!
Plot: 8/10 Characters: 9/10 Writing: 9/10 Ending: 9/10 Cover: 7/10 - I'm not a fan of the guy they chose to portray Aidan :-/
Banshee Charmer by Tiffany Allee is one amazing paranormal romance! If you love fast paced stories filled with great plots, heart stopping twists and hot romance, this is the right book for you.
Half-banshee, Kiera "Mac" McLoughlin is a detective working for the paranormal unit in Chicago, otherwise known as "The Freak Squad". While working on a case investigating the second dead woman in a short time, Mac's partner, Amanda, gets murdered. Together with the sexy Aidan Byrne from the OWEA (Otherworlder Enforcement Agency), she is determined to catch the serial killer before any more women get killed. As Mac and Aidan grow closer and their romance heats up, Mac starts to suspect Aidan knows more than he's telling her.
In this world all paranormal creatures like witches, vampires, succubi, banshees and many more are "out" in the open. I never read about a banshee before so I was really excited to dig into this and it sure didn't disappoint! I simple adored Aidan. I loved the way he just showed up in Mac's house, reading one of her books. The chemistry between them was intense. Aidan was also very mysterious and sexy, so I could easily understand why Mac felt so attracted to him. You could sense from the start he was hiding something and up until the last pages the mystery holds, not knowing if he's good or bad. And I've got to say there was one serious *gasp* moment. The other characters were quite memorable too because there was such a variety of otherworlders. The most interesting I found were the succubi, because also of these I've never read a book about.
Eventhough I'm not normally a big fan of novels involving police departments or murder investigations, I simply couldn't put this one down. It was such a page turned I read it in less than two days! This shows how good Tiffany Allee's writing is.
All in all it I can say with confidence that this book is one of my all time favorites now. I would recommend it to anyone loving paranormal romance with a good murder mystery.
This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.
Expected Release Date: January 24, 2012 (Available Now!) Publisher: Entangled Publishing Imprint: N/A Author’s Website: http://tiffanyallee.com My Source for This Book: Netgalley Part of a Series: Yes, Book 1, From the Files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency Series Best Read In Order: N/A Steam Level: Steamy
This was a wonderfully fun, fast-paced read, with the perfect amount of sensuality. I loved Aiden, and the chemistry between him and Kiera was truly delicious. Adding in the mystery behind both the killings and Aiden’s true identity added a wonderful amount of tension and angst as well.
Overall, this was a fast, sexy read that was also quite heavy on plot as well. Recommended for fans of heroes keeping secrets, of heroines juggling a tortured past, demanding job, and complicated relationship, and of high action urban fantasy, all sprinkled with a solid dose of sensuality.
Read all my reviews at http://www.readingreality.net Banshee Charmer by Tiffany Allee is labeled as being "from the files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency". I took that to mean that this might be the first book of a series. This is an excellent thing! Banshees are not usually charmers, but in this case of this particular half-banshee, if you like urban fantasy, you'll be charmed.
We meet our heroine at a crime scene. Which is only fitting, because Mac is a cop. Not your standard, run-of-the-mill cop, of course, but a member of the paranormal unit. There are generally two kinds of people who get assigned to the paranormal unit--paranormals, and regular-type human cops who have really, really pissed off someone in authority. For a human, being assigned to the "freak squad" is an even worse type of career purgatory than Internal Affairs.
But Keira "Mac" McLoughlin is definitely a freak. She's half-banshee. Her scream can be a weapon. When she wants it to be.
When Mac's partner Amanda becomes the victim of a serial killer, her Lieutenant takes her off the case. He thinks she's too emotionally involved to see things clearly. He's sure that Mac is out for payback instead of justice.
But Mac can't stay away from the case, so when she comes back to her place to find an Otherworld Enforcement Agent sitting at her kitchen table claiming to have more evidence about the killer, she lets him into her confidence, and they join forces. And Mac keeps investigating a case she's supposed to be miles away from.
The more Mac investigates, the stranger things get. Even for an Otherworld Enforcement Agent. This serial killer should never have targeted her partner, because he targets the weak, not bodybuilder cops. But then, this killer seems to be a member of an otherworld species that is supposed to be extinct.
And that OWEA agent, well Aiden Byrne is not exactly what he appears to be, either. And the biggest problem with that is Mac's feelings for him are anything but professional.
Escape Rating A-/B+: This was one of those books that was just plain fun. Within the first few pages I was absolutely hooked. It hit all the high notes of an excellent urban fantasy, the heroine was not just kick-ass, but she was interesting and slightly different, the hero was conflicted but not too much, and the world-building was gritty and real.
We haven't seen a banshee (even a half-banshee) as a heroine before. Mac's conflicts about her background make her perspective new. Aiden also has just the right amount of torment (I like a little bad in my boys, but not to the point of wondering why the heroine gives them the time of day!). And a world built on everyone knowing and dealing with the otherworld is cool.
I want to read the next book. If this is "from the files of" that means there are more files, doesn't it? Please.
If you want to read more of my thoughts on this story, check this post at Book Lovers Inc.
Banshee Charmer is a short and exciting novel revolving around a spunky half-bansee cop who takes a case very seriously when her partner becomes a victim of a supposed extinct race. Allee takes the reader on a fun ride that has me wanting the next installment!
Keira McLoughlin is not your average cop. She is half banshee. Her partner is not your average woman nor is their killer your average nutcase. They're all related to the paranormal in some way. Self proclaimed "self god," Aidan Byrne aids Keira, or Mac as her friends call her, in an impossible case that has claimed the life of Mac's witch partner.
Tiffany Alle's novella is an exciting first installment which looks to be a really fun and really sexy series. The book opens up with Mac investigating a peculiar crime scene that points to the fact that it may have been committed by an "oh-dub" or otherworlder. The plot moves at an engaging pace with the right amount of romance sprinkled throughout. I do wish that more information was revealed about Mac, especially her upbringings. Even though the novel is Banshee Charmer,banshees have very little to do with the plot which took me by surprise. Allee also added in bits of information and appearances of other paranormal creatures which added to the Otherworlder's growing world. Although the plot is fairly predictable, I was still enticed by Allee's world and Mac's voice.
Mac is your average female cop: Spunky, a sailor's mouth, and a very tough cookie. All of these qualities make her a very fun character. I really liked Mac because of how well she criticized herself. Usually when a character finds herself falling helplessly in love with a stranger while her friend's murder is plotting I would criticize the hell out of her: Mac beat me to it. She knows she is being irrational and that her budding relationship with Aidan should not be a priority and her internal conflict make her seem even more real. Some of the secondary characters are shallow meaning that they are not as fleshed at as I would expect from a novel, but I'm assuming that this novella is setting up the environment and the characters for future installments.
Given that the the novella is told from Mac's perspective, her voice is everything you would expect. Full of revenge, naughty words, and surprising lust for a sexy stranger. While there is not a lot of character discovery regarding Mac, it is fun to be just as left in the dark as Mac is as she struggles to find her partner's killer.
This novella was a godsend for me, after having read primarily young adult novels for the past 6 or so months, it was good to read a more mature novel (with sexy time :p). The Otherworlder Enforcement Agency series seems really promising and I can't wait to see Allee's world grow.
I recommend this for everyone who wants a short read full of mystery and a budding relationship.
While working her latest case, detective (and half-banshee) Kiera "Mac" McLoughlin is convinced the two murdered victims are the work of a serial killer, an incubus to be exact. The only problem with her theory, incubi have been extinct for years. When her partner becomes the third victim of the serial killer, Mac is taken off the case but refuses to walk away from the investigation. With no solid leads, Mac's chances of finding the killer before he strikes again seem slim, until she meets the intriguing and handsome Aidan Byrne, an investigator for the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency. Mac knows her only option is to accept Aidan's help, but working close to the sexy investigator will prove far more dangerous than the killer she seeks.
Banshee Charmer is an entertaining story filled with a bit of mystery, humor and a sizzling romance! Tiffany Allee's world where humans and paranormals exist, side by side, is a fresh new take I really enjoyed. Mac is a solid heroine, she's tough and daring, but comes off as insecure sometimes...which I wanted to scream at her for, I mean she's a cop for crying out loud! Aidan is smooth, calm and collective, I love his swagger and feisty personality instantly! These two really bring out the best in each other and the sparks between them are electrifying. I couldn't get enough of their interaction before things really heat up, these two are great together. Although the story deals with the very sexual beings that are succubi and incubi, this element is written in a very tasteful way that fits well into the plot.
With the perfect blend of supernatural and suspense, Banshee Charmer weaves a little urban fantasy into a paranormal romance for a stellar debut! Fun characters, intriguing mystery and a hot romance make this a great lazy afternoon short read. I'm looking forward to getting to know the "other worlders" in Ms. Allee's developing supernatural world!
I think that this is the first book I've ever read which features a Banshee...an otherworlder who can kill with her scream. I liked her as a paranormal creature and I like the world that is being created here. This is an interesting premise for a series and I think eventually it will be a really interesting group of books. For this book, as the first in the series, there was a lot to set up and explain and it isn't that long of a novel. As a result, I don't feel like we got to make as deep a connection with the characters as I would have liked. And I would have really gotten to know these characters because I really liked them.
Mac is a half-banshee who works for the police force. She's a female cop and half otherworlder...both strikes against her, but she's tough and she holds her own. I liked that about her. Aiden is the Agent from OEA who is working behind the scenes to help her find a serial killer. You can tell from the very beginning that there seems to be more to his character, but you're never quite sure what that is. There is a lot of suspense in this novel as you try to figure out who did it in this huge cast of characters...many of them who have issues which could make them a suspect. There is a lot of intrigue and politics between the humans and various otherworld groups and even the OEA. The suspense was really good, although I would have liked to have seen the danger ramped up just a tiny bit more.
Like I said, I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this book, but that may be misleading because I really had a hard time connecting with Aiden in this book. I do realize there was a reason for that. I just feel like I would have been more invested in his and Mac's story if we could have had a bit of the story told from his point of view. I wanted to care about him more.
I know this is the start of the series and I have no idea how the next books in the series will interact with this one. I hope that we will get to see some of these characters again as we move forward so we can see how things are working out. For this book I felt like it ended with a Happily For Now and I want to see the Happily Ever After. I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
I received an ecopy of this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Have you ever read a debut novel that was SO good you couldn't believe it was really a debut? Where you had to go Google the author and find out for yourself if they had ever written and published a book before this one? Well, this is that debut novel! I loved it! Tiffany Allee has written a well thought out novel with a great plot, fully developed characters, a great romance, and enough twists and turns to keep you turning the pages throughout!
I was first drawn to the book because it was about a half-banshee cop, and I was curious to see how that would work. I can't remember the last time I read a book about banshees, so this was a nice change for me. What I got, though, was a whole lot more than just the banshee: there were other supernatural creatures in the book as well - succubi, incubi, vampires, witches, and more! It's set in a time where supernatural creatures are protected by the law, which makes things a bit sticky when they revert to character. You'll learn that that is when being a supernatural being yourself can really come in handy!
Kiera “Mac” McLoughlin is the female MC and I found her to be a very likable character. She's a loner, due to her being a banshee and creating a bubble around herself so as not to accidentally hurt anyone. Then there's Aidan Byrne, "an investigative counterpart from the enigmatic Otherworlder Enforcement Agency", similar to the FBI. As explained in the book, they generally take on paranormal-related crimes that cross state lines. Mac is investigating a possible serial killer when she comes home to find Aidan sitting at her kitchen table reading one of her secret supply of romance books! Sparks fly, and continue to fly throughout the book between these two.
I liked everything about this book - it had a great plot, lots of action, and character development from start to finish. What's even better is that this is the first book in a new series! Yayy!! I look forward to reading more books by this very talented debut author :D
I prefer opening my review with my own summary of the storyline but BANSHEE CHARMER's blurb is spot on. So let's jump into what I thought about it shall we?
Since getting burned about eight books into the Anita Blake series I've had a tough time with finding a paranormal 'cop' series that doesn't fall off into the sexual side of the story. I like steamy love scenes as much as anyone but when it devolves the overall series into every-other-chapter nookie I just don't enjoy it. I love a good crime to solve and the thicker the mystery the better. BANSHEE CHARMER manages to introduce what I hope will become a great series.
I really like Mac. My only beef with her was her lack of follow-up on Aiden's credentials. She struck me as smarter than that. I do wish Allee had given us a little bit more to work with as far as the world building and what paranormal races are in it yet she gives what she gives well. No disjointed info dumps, hallelujah! The chemistry between Aiden and Mac honestly felt transparent. He's hot. She's hot. She's something other. He's something other. I just didn't feel it. There was too much of the telling and not enough showing of the chemistry. It happens sometimes with first person narrative and was one big flaw I found here.
The mystery was transparent from page one. Don't expect any surprises. This was definitely more about getting Mac and Aiden between the sheets than a real crime solving plot but as a short story there couldn't have been much more dragging it out.
As a novella I thought it was pretty good but I really wasn't thrilled with it as an introduction to a new series. I hope the first full-length novel has stronger legs to stand on. Overall, I liked it though, it was entertaining and has the potential for a great series to follow. If you're in the mood for something steamy and cop-py I think it's a light read for a rainy day.
Mac is a detective who works for the Paranormal Division of the Chicago Police Department - otherwise known as the freak squad - and is currently investigating a series of brutal murders that appear to have been committed by an extinct supernatural species. When her partner is killed on the job it makes Mac even more determined to track down the murderer but her boss has taken her off the case believing it has become too personal. Luckily Aidan, an agent for the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency (the equivalent of the paranormal FBI) who is also working on the case asks for her help tracking down the killer. Mac is drawn to Aidan but it appears that he is keeping secrets from her, is he really who he says he is and should she trust him?
Banshee Charmer was a great start to a new series and has left me keen for the next installment. The story is fast paced, has a strong plot and introduces us to some great characters. Mac is a half banshee which immediately makes her stand out as I don't think I've come across a banshee in an adult series before. We don't actually learn much about her abilities in this first story but I'm hoping we find out more as the series continues. I loved the chemistry between her and Aidan, that definitely made the book for me and I'm looking forward to seeing more of them together in future books. It is obvious from early on that he is hiding something but even though I wasn't sure if he could be trusted I could easily understand Mac's attraction to him.
For a novella Tiffany Allee manages to pack quite a lot into the story, the world building is interesting without being overwhelming and I liked the fact that there are so many different supernatural species in the story. Banshee Charmer has it all - mystery, action and sizzling romance - and I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next. If you're looking for a fun and light hearted read you can't go wrong with this one.
I finished Banshee Charmer by Tiffany Allee this week. I asked for it because the main character is a banshee and really, how many times do you use a banshee MC? Or even a half-banshee.
Banshee Charmer is the first in a new Otherworlder Enforcement Agency series. I enjoyed it. It's a short, quick read. It moves fast.
The part I liked best was when Mac uses her scream on the bad guy. ;) Too bad she isn't a full banshee; that guy deserves to die.
Screaming isn't that useful when it comes to detective work. She needs to do it the way non-magical cops do it: with her brains and guts. I enjoyed reading all that.
It is always clear that, Aidan, the male lead and romantic interest isn't telling her everything. It turns out he was lying to her from the beginning. She forgives him for that, accepts him at the end and the book ends there. I don't quite understand how she can do that.
Maybe that's because Banshee Charmer is so short. I am not sure how many pages (I have a kindle ARC from net galley) but I think maybe half the size of a normal sized novel.
Also, lots of times it felt like she was telling us (me, the reader!) very interesting things about the other characters, but I wasn't feeling it when the those characters showed up on page. Maybe this was also a result of the short length; not enough space to show everything I would like to be shown in the characters.
Other than that I would have to say this is a very interesting world (banshees and selkies and incubus and so much more). I like the main character and I think there is a lot potential for future stories.
The Banshee Charmer is set in a world where Otherworlders are known about publically and even have representatives on the police force. There is also the OEA (Otherworlder enforcement Agency) to deal with OW issues. The story is centred around Keira “Mac” who is a half-banshee and her unofficial team-up iwth OEA agent Aidan.
Things are strange from the very first and only get weirder as the story progresses. Murders are happening that Mac believes had to be the work of an Incubi, only problem is the Incubi are believed to be extinct. Then you’ve got the chemistry between her and Aidan to deal with – and he tries so hard to be a good boy, lol.
I absolutely loved the story and eagerly await more from both the author and specifically in this series. Mac and Aiden were great. . . well fleshed out characters that you could really feel for. The world was vivid and inviting. And the killer? I was both shocked and not at the same time. I was just glad it wasn’t who I thought it was (Thank goodness I was wrong!).
This was a well written, fast paced, paranormal story with a few twists and turns. The sex is goooood and the mystery is fun yet aggravating all at the same time. I look forward to more OWE stories and truly hope Tiffany uses all the great dynamics and potential she has built into her universe and characters.
Mac is a cop who investigates cases involving the supernatural. She, herself, is half-banshee. Her latest case involves what appears to be an incubus killing a string of women... and when someone close to Mac becomes his latest victim, the investigation gets personal.
The sexy Aidan is working by her side to solve the case --and of course, it's only a matter of time before the two of them get horizontal. Aidan is the best thing the book has going for it: he's hot and sort of mysterious. And the sex is good. There is nothing wrong with Mac, necessarily, but her character wasn't given much depth and all of her actions were pretty much in reaction to the events in the book.
The story was entertaining, but very predictable. Not only was Aidan's identity transparent from the first time we saw him, but I even figured out his relationship to the killer early on as well. This book is clearly the first in a series, but the ending felt abrupt. Yes, the murder arc was solved, but the stuff between Mac and Aidan was left wide open. It didn't end so much as it just stopped.
I think the series has potential, especially if the author is not quite as heavy handed with the hints on the next go around. Perhaps future installments will give us bit more character development --and hopefully, more of that hot sex. 3 stars.
Perhaps I would not have picked up this book, paranormal is not my type most of the time. But put in a mystery as well and viola! I love any and all kinds of mystery/ thriller. So I’m really glad that I picked it up.
Thanks to my Kindle, I could check out in the dictionary, all the numerous types of otherworldly creatures. I liked knowing about all of them.
The plot is really well written and the characters nicely etched out. I liked Mac for being in power and for how brave she is.
The book makes for a fast-paced page-turning thrill. I read it in one sitting, yeah, it was that good!
And good for the mystery that I did not figure it out till the very end. I love those that play havoc with my mind.
For those of you wanting to read a paranormal mystery and romance, go for this one.
I loved the tone of this novella--a mix of a police procedural and an urban fantasy. It was amazing how much you were able to follow along without needing an info-dump for world-building purposes. The author introduced a new piece of the world and you just nodded and accepted it.
While this wasn't a long story, I still blew through it quickly--actually I think I only set my Kindle down to go get a drink once... and I needed that drink of water--this was a hot story.
Mac's powers were fantastic. I love that her Banshee powers were so effective.
I'd recommend this to fans of UF who don't mind a little heat in their romance. It was an awesome read.
Banshee Charmer is about a woman named Kiera, but everyone calls her Mac. She is a homicide detective for the Chicago Police Department, specifically the Freak Division. She takes care of the supernatural cases. You see, the world knows about the paranormal. The witches, vampires, demons and more live and work out in the open. The case Mac is working on involves women drained not of their blood, but of their energy. Problem is, it might be the work of an incubus, a supernatural creature that no one believes in because they went into extinction a very long time ago. So Mac's hands are tied. And worse, a sexy OWEA agent winds up in her house to help her, but is he trustworthy? Mac doesn't know that either.
I was asked by Stacey O'Neale to review this book. I jumped at the chance since the book sounded so interesting. And it definitely was. This is Tiffany Allee's first book and she did a phenomenal job. The characters were great and had depth. Mac is a great heroine. She takes care of business and doesn't take a lot of crap. Aidan was hot and charming. This book was 137 pages long and Allee managed to get such an incredible chemistry between her leads. They were heating up the pages, let me tell you.
I liked the plot. I won't lie, I figured out the secret halfway through. It was predictable. That doesn't take away from the story, mind you. You still want to know where the secret plays into the story. I was still at the edge of my seat. But I do this a lot. You don't want to watch Castle or any cop show/movie with me. I always figure it out before anyone. Ever watch that super sad Sean Penn movie, Mystic River? I knew who the killer was in the first half hour. Trust me, no one would have thought of it. Sorry about the rambling there. Nonetheless, predictability is pretty much my only compliant.
This is a wonderful debut by Tiffany Allee. The world is incredible and well put together. I definitely got lost in this book. You really get a lot for a book that is a little over 100 pages. That is always my compliant with short stories, we don't get enough depth or they don't feel layered enough, this definitely doesn't fit that mold. Allee manages to mix police procedural, urban fantasy, mystery and paranormal romance beautifully. Allee is clearly talented and I will be keeping my eyes on her. You should do the same.
The Banshee charmer Book Review Having never read a book with a banshee, or half banshee protagonist I was very excited to read this galley however, this was not at all what I expected. The author created a world of other worlders or OW’s catalogued and revealed to the world they are seen as another part of society if “other”. Kiera Mcloughlin is part of a special subdivision of the police the OWEA they enforce the laws and are called in when the mortals are unable to solve cases, mainly OW cases.
This latest case features Mac as she prefers to be called and her partner an amateur witch being called in to OW case with unknown COD. With these deaths happening country wide and only one mad knowing the true situation, they set out to solve it. Being part of the freak squad isn’t easy and with time running out, a Higher up pulling strings and a mysterious man on the scene things get tough, then tougher and then tougher still.
This story had an interesting premise however I felt that Mac didn't have a voice, not a strong one or an annoying one or even a half assed one. Mac’s voice was simply not a voice some of her mannerisms were contradictory, it felt like too many things were being pushed onto the reader from Vamp politics, family feuds, possible love interests, minor character back stories, Banshee traditions and heritage and witch heritage, not enough time or focus was given to really understand before Mac was onto the next one. This story was going through the motions and as a reader so was I. It had turns and twists but I didn't care enough to find them interesting, the writing was blunt and short.
This book only really picked up at about 57% through, but sleeping with a man who broke into your house claiming to be a private sector of the task force, really? Whether he had powers or charms, that may not have been the smartest thing to do, to then talk about your paranoia associated with being a cop to find the truth and then trusting a OW blindly without even knowing what type of OW he was? I felt like beer was her go to and an excuse for being ignorant and when she did have bright ideas I imagined the author spoon feeding her the facts. I would have loved to say that this new addition to the slim category of Banshee books was one to make its mark but I found this book empty and predictable a short read nonetheless if light and lack lustre is your type then this book is your “happy scream.”
BANSHEE CHARMER, the novella length first installment of the new Files of the Otherworld Enforcement Agency starts off with an interesting premise; Kiera “Mac” McLoughlin, a half-banshee police detective, must track down a serial killer who isn’t human and shouldn’t even exist anymore according to her boss. Banshees are not your typical protagonists, even in paranormal fiction, so I was excited to see Mac’s unique brand of supernatural powers in action.
Banshee mythology portrays them as screaming harbringers of death. In BANSHEE CHARMER, Mac’s screams can stun or kill when necessary. This is a rather handy skill to have in her line of work. Potentially lethal screaming aside, there wasn’t a lot about Mac to connect with. Whether this is due to the shorter length (novella), or not, I don’t know but there just wasn’t enough. That observation is unfortunately true for both the romance and world building. Too often I felt like I was being told interesting things about characters and this world without being able to really absorb them appropriately before something else happened.
One thing you can’t rush in a paranormal romance, is the romance. I would be tempted to categorize BANSHEE CHARMER as urban fantasy since the romance wasn’t very strong. Mac’s love interest, Aiden had potential to be an interesting character with his mysterious background and his job with the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency but I was mostly left wondering what Mac saw in him besides his attractiveness. Their romance seemed rushed and I felt like I was missing scenes where they were connecting with each other on a level that was more than lust.
Overall, the great premise and supernatural serial killer plot in BANSHEE CHARMER were strong enough to help balance out the shortcomings with the romance and characterization. A lot of my criticisms are probably due to the novella length restrictions. I’m hopeful that the next installment will be a full length novel that really takes advantage of all the promise in the Files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency. There is definitely something here.
An ARC copy of this book was provided for review by publisher. Reviewed at: Book Savvy Babe
Banshee Charmer combines urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and investigation genres into a quick, entertaining, and successful novella. Kiera “Mac” is a cop (and a half-banshee) who investigates paranormal crimes and she is pretty good at her job. However, when Mac comes across a case implicating a race thought to be extinct, the job gets tougher, women keep dying, and even Mac herself may be in danger.
Banshee Charmer is not the longest novel ever, it is pretty short, but the story is complete and I really enjoyed reading this one. I really like the world and the main heroine, Mac, as well as the intriguing and handsome Aidan. There are many races of paranormal beings in Banshee Charmer, and they are all a part of the human world. The paranormal cop/ investigation story line is a good setting for the characters and the world in which the story takes place, everything manages to fit the story.
With a spark of sexual heat, a budding romance, and a tough-cop heroine, Tiffany Allee creates a well balanced, highly engaging story. In Banshee Charmer, a large part of the paranormal story line revolves around succubus’ and incubus’, giving the story a touch of heat. Even though the beings are sexual in nature, this aspect is not overdone, it’s just right.
A key description for Banshee Charmer is balance. The action matches the characters and the setting, the romance matches the story line and the characters personalities, and the outcome is fitting and satisfying. I would definitely like to read more by Tiffany Allee, I really enjoyed Banshee Charmer and I would love to read more about the Underworld Enforcement Agency. Banshee Charmer is the first novella in a 4 part series, and I am looking forward to reading the future installments. I would recommend Banshee Charmer to readers who enjoy Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, and Romantic Suspense.
This book was not what I expected but in a really good way. The plot interweaves between informing you about these new or sometimes familiar creatures or half humans and the rest is dedicated to a good old fashioned serial killer/murder mystery. I particularly liked that it was about a Banshee, there really aren't any novels I'm aware of which use this persona, especially not for a person who is in law enforcement.
Although it is quite short I felt that Allee managed to really get me hooked on the characters so I cared what happened to them. This is always great especially in a murder mystery. Aiden Byrne is somewhat of a mystery to us and to Mac, he appears like a good guy but then why would he break into her apartment for their first meeting. I was intrigued by this handsome yet slightly untrustworthy character which lead the reader into some interesting thoughts towards the plot line. There was lots of plot development, when you think that Mac is off the case for good she gets into a scuffle with a goblin (nasty things)
To me, the cover looks quite saucy, especially when it says 'Scream for me' but the novel is generally quite down to earth. There are some places where you could say that the sex scenes are a little rowdy but other than that its a very PG book. I don't think the man on the cover does Aiden justice either... or at least not to the Aiden I had in my mind :-)
I really enjoyed the fact that the so called 'underworlders' don't have to hide and are in a position of authority, like humans there has always got to be the bad ones but I love the way Allee has come up with a concept where some are good. I'm really looking forward to this series and think it could have some quite exciting twists with various different underworld type characters. This book flies you into crime and paranormal romance genre's which are very well intertwined, if you like any of these genres this is definitely your kind of book!
This book has been honestly sitting on my TBR list for months. When Tiffany’s second book came up on Bewitching Book Tours recently, it was just the push I needed to pick up this book. Looking back, I wish I had picked it up sooner!
Mac is an investigator with the police department, she is also half banshee. With the murder of her partner, she is thrown off the investigation and has to work around the normal channels. With the help of Aidan, a member of the OWEA; she tries to track down the serial killer who has not only taken the life of her partner but many across the country.
Unfortunately for Mac, things don’t go according to plan. With the killer on the loose she’s looking into every avenue to find him and has Aidan tagging along. Their relationship goes from professional to hot hot hot in a matter of chapters. They have an amazing connection but neither can really get terribly involved when there is a major case to solve.
I REALLY enjoyed this book, Mac easily made my top 10 list of favorite heroines. She’s spunky, kick ass, isn’t afraid to do what needs to be done and keeps Aidan and the rest of the police department on their toes throughout the story.
With twists and turns this book keep me on the edge of my chair, quickly flipping pages to see what would happen next to Mac and whether they would find the serial killer.
Would I recommend this book? Yes! For those who love a paranormal romance with mystery mixed in this is a book for you. Will I read more by this author? Most definitely! I really enjoyed Tiffany’s style of writing.
Banshee Charmer is a solid start to a four book series by debut author Tiffany Allee. Set in Chicago and its surrounding area, Banshee Charmer reminded me a little of those procedural detective TV shows with the addition of some paranormal elements.
The world of Banshee Charmer is dark and gritty. The heroine Mac (short for Kiera McLaughlin) is a half banshee. I liked Mac, although at times she did risk her personal safety. While Mac’s magical ability was her banshee scream and not much else, she was pretty effective at detective work, even though she didn’t use the most conventional methods. Mac partners with Aidan Byrne to find the killer. Aidan is a bit of a mystery as the reader is never quite sure what he really is aside from very handsome and sexy.
One of my favorite characters in this book had to be Claude Desmarais, a vampire. His knowledge of the vampire community was a great asset during Mac’s investigation. Claude was quite protective of Mac, too.
I liked that this book had all sorts of supernatural characters. The banshee lore was interesting. Banshee Charmer was a nice, light diversion for a Saturday afternoon. I’m looking forward to reading the next books in the series when they are released.
Thank you to the publisher for a review copy of this book.
Incubi? Okay, that had me curious. I mean there are a lot of succubus type of stories, but not often do we get an incubus. So, yes, I had to try this series. Plus, I admit I do like the paranormal cop angle. Makes it more like a UF/PNR book. I usually enjoy those.
Mac is someone I liked. A bit snarky at times and didn't take crap from anyone. She's had to deal with prejudice of being an "other" especially being a half-banshee. She runs into a baffling case and one that seems to lead to nowhere. She is joined by someone who claims to be from an elite group of otherworld investigators. Hopefully with his help, she'll solve the case. Or will he just get in the way?
I have to admit although I did enjoy this paranormal, I did find it predictable. I knew things way before Mac so no big twists or turns happened for me. The mystery tries to steal the limelight, but it seems as though the relationship (or really the bedding) of Mac and Aidan was more spotlighted. Not that it was necessarily a bad thing, but I would have liked the mystery to take center stage and make the relationship enhance the tension.
I give this book 3 stars and I do recommend it to anyone who likes a short fun adult novella. I am curious as to how Mac and Aidan will hopefully expand their relationship in both a professional and personal way. I think there is potential there.
I've read many paranormal stories, but this was the first time I've read about a Banshee! That part intrigued me as much as did the synopsis of the story!
Kiera (Mac) is a detective in the paranormal unit of Chicago Police Department AKA “Freak Division” due to her ethnicity as being part Banshee. Kiera is on assignment and thinks an Icubus is the one killing the victims, but they are supposedly extinct and that is not helping her crack the case. And then there is her partner turning out to be the next victim which leads her to Aiden..
Aiden works for the OWEA. He is helpful, secretive, charming, and handsome. He flat out makes Kiera feel things she hasn’t in a long time. He is also protective and wants to make sure she isn’t harmed while agreeing to help her find her partner’s killer.
The relationship between Kiera and Aiden was intense. You could see the desire and attraction both had towards one another. I enjoyed watching them together!
However, the question is when Kiera finds out some certain information can she forgive and forget or will it be too late?
If you love the paranormal romance, intense attraction, urban fantasy and mystery this is the right book for you! It is a short story that will captivate you until the end. :)
* I received a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review*
What a fun introduction to this series. Mz. Allee has a great way of drawing you into the procedural process, but not losing you in the specifics. She gives you just enough information for authenticity and keeps the storytelling moving forward.
These are two characters that have closed themselves off to the world for two different reasons. Mac is a half-breed and her back story will carve a hole into you, but it doesn't define her. It's a symptom to the cop she becomes, but the woman inside is strong enough to believe that she can be loved, she just assume it isn't going to happen.
And Aidan. Oh, Aidan, you're so full of secrets. Because this is a 1st person book, you learn about Aidan as Mac does. And sometimes that can drive me crazy. (One of the reasons that I NEVER used to read 1st person stories--I've opened my mind since then and glad that I gave this a try.) But Aidan really grew on me.
I wouldn't call this a steamy read. It's definitely sexy in parts, but the focus really is on the mystery. But I did get fulfilled on that end as well. I really want the sexy in my mysteries. I love the push and pull of a couple and it really sets the tone for the down times in the story.
Great job. I'll definitely be following this series.