What do you think?
Rate this book
Eviscerating the Snake #2
Zero Balance
Nine months ago, Audra Tanner exposed the hidden secrets locked away at the prestigious accounting firm of Winscott & Associates. No one escaped her wrath. And once the smoke had cleared, everyone watched as the diabolical Olin Kemper was led away in handcuffs. Now Audra's meticulous revenge has thrust her into the role of managing partner.
But the firm is struggling to survive amidst the turmoil and media attention surrounding the shocking arrest and upcoming murder trial of Olin. And Audra must face the fallout left from her explosive revenge while trying to heal and recover from the trauma of her past.
Audra thought she had ended the evil lurking within and that her revenge would set her free. Unfortunately, it's only the beginning. Because evil never dies, it only assumes a new form. Soon everyone at the firm will discover that no one is safe when you are dealing with a psychopath that has zero balance.
But the firm is struggling to survive amidst the turmoil and media attention surrounding the shocking arrest and upcoming murder trial of Olin. And Audra must face the fallout left from her explosive revenge while trying to heal and recover from the trauma of her past.
Audra thought she had ended the evil lurking within and that her revenge would set her free. Unfortunately, it's only the beginning. Because evil never dies, it only assumes a new form. Soon everyone at the firm will discover that no one is safe when you are dealing with a psychopath that has zero balance.
262 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2012
25 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Fontainne
47 books149 followersAshley writes in multiple genres ranging from mystery/thrillers to suspenseful paranormal to dark comedy. The recipient of numerous awards for her gritty, no-holds barred style of writing, her stories will captivate and pull you inside the lives of her characters and intricate plot lines.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 31, 2012
Last year I entered a book drawing in support of a new author I had met. Ms. Ashley Fontainne was giving away a couple of signed copies of her debut novel, Accountable to None. I usually don’t read in the genre that she writes in but once I began reading Accountable to None I was caught by surprise. I found that I could not put the book down and was taking it with me to work to read on lunch breaks. With her first novel, Ms Fontainne had me reading out of my genre and liking it! As a Matter of fact, the last paragraph of my review for Accountable to None read;
Between the trailer she produced for the story and the story itself, it is clear that Ms Ashley Fontainne is nothing less than talented. I expect that we will be hearing from Ms Fontainne quite a bit in the future. I for one am looking forward to it.
For anyone who had any concerns that the Sequel in Ms. Fontainne’s Eviscerating the Snake series would not be as good as the first, I can assure that Zero Balance is as every bit the thriller that Accountable to None was. I can say that Ashley Fontainne will not be disappointing her fans at all with her second outing as a writer. Out of all the twists and exciting turns that Zero Balance takes to thrill Ms. Fontainne’s readers, there was one particular twist that really knocked me on my butt. I did not see it coming and was quite astonished when I read it. But hey, you will have to get your own copy to see where I am coming from.
Ms Ashley Fontainne has written two very exhilarating novels in her Eviscerating the Snake series, Accountable to None and Zero Balance. With both, she has proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is capable of writing and holding the attention of her readers. Pay attention to this Author because the future is now and I don’t see Ms. Ashley Fontainne going away anytime soon!
Between the trailer she produced for the story and the story itself, it is clear that Ms Ashley Fontainne is nothing less than talented. I expect that we will be hearing from Ms Fontainne quite a bit in the future. I for one am looking forward to it.
For anyone who had any concerns that the Sequel in Ms. Fontainne’s Eviscerating the Snake series would not be as good as the first, I can assure that Zero Balance is as every bit the thriller that Accountable to None was. I can say that Ashley Fontainne will not be disappointing her fans at all with her second outing as a writer. Out of all the twists and exciting turns that Zero Balance takes to thrill Ms. Fontainne’s readers, there was one particular twist that really knocked me on my butt. I did not see it coming and was quite astonished when I read it. But hey, you will have to get your own copy to see where I am coming from.
Ms Ashley Fontainne has written two very exhilarating novels in her Eviscerating the Snake series, Accountable to None and Zero Balance. With both, she has proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is capable of writing and holding the attention of her readers. Pay attention to this Author because the future is now and I don’t see Ms. Ashley Fontainne going away anytime soon!
February 28, 2012
I won this book on a goodreads giveaway, I wasn't aware that it was part of a sequel until I started reading it. To credit the author she did a good job of tying the two books together for those of us who didnt read the first. I enjoyed reading Zero Balance, it was a fast paced well written book. I plan on picking up the first book and any books that follow Zero balance.
May 17, 2012
I can't stop thinking about this book!
ZERO BALANCE is book two in the Eviscerating the Snake series. I highly recommend that you read book one, ACCOUNTABLE TO NONE, first, so you don't miss a thing.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Often times a reader will pick up the second book in a series to be sorely disappointed because they enjoyed the first book so much. That is not the case with ZERO BALANCE by ASHLEY FONTAINNE. I'm going to try to write this review without giving too much of the story away. That's going to be tough, though, because I could talk about ZERO BALANCE for hours!
The story picks up one week prior to Olin's trial. Audra is starting to feel guilty about taking vengeance out on all the partners instead of focusing on Olin. Little does she know that she's awakened the sleeping psycho in the remaining partners at the accounting firm and they're out to get a little justice of their own. And then there's Piper, the unexpected villain.
When an author deals with a psychotic personality, it is sometimes difficult for the reader to get too close to that character. Through Ms. Fontainne's writing, we, as normal, well adjusted people, are taken into the mind of a truly demented mentally ill woman. This was done flawlessly through Ms. Fontainne's writing each chapter in ZERO BALANCE through the eyes of a specific character. For a short time, we, as readers, are thrown into a truly twisted mindset. I must say, I was very uncomfortable being there, but I loved the fact that the author was able to make me understand the depths of Piper's anger and excitement at taking another life through her mental illness.
If you ask me, ZERO BALANCE can't be pigeonholed into one specific genre. This is a suspense, thriller, dark fearsome horror story with a little romance thrown in. I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL THE THIRD IN THE SERIES COMES OUT!
ZERO BALANCE is book two in the Eviscerating the Snake series. I highly recommend that you read book one, ACCOUNTABLE TO NONE, first, so you don't miss a thing.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Often times a reader will pick up the second book in a series to be sorely disappointed because they enjoyed the first book so much. That is not the case with ZERO BALANCE by ASHLEY FONTAINNE. I'm going to try to write this review without giving too much of the story away. That's going to be tough, though, because I could talk about ZERO BALANCE for hours!
The story picks up one week prior to Olin's trial. Audra is starting to feel guilty about taking vengeance out on all the partners instead of focusing on Olin. Little does she know that she's awakened the sleeping psycho in the remaining partners at the accounting firm and they're out to get a little justice of their own. And then there's Piper, the unexpected villain.
When an author deals with a psychotic personality, it is sometimes difficult for the reader to get too close to that character. Through Ms. Fontainne's writing, we, as normal, well adjusted people, are taken into the mind of a truly demented mentally ill woman. This was done flawlessly through Ms. Fontainne's writing each chapter in ZERO BALANCE through the eyes of a specific character. For a short time, we, as readers, are thrown into a truly twisted mindset. I must say, I was very uncomfortable being there, but I loved the fact that the author was able to make me understand the depths of Piper's anger and excitement at taking another life through her mental illness.
If you ask me, ZERO BALANCE can't be pigeonholed into one specific genre. This is a suspense, thriller, dark fearsome horror story with a little romance thrown in. I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL THE THIRD IN THE SERIES COMES OUT!
July 11, 2014
Zero Balance is the second book in the Eviscerating the Snake series by Ashley Fontainne. In the first book, Accountable to None, we are introduced to the employees and partners in the prestigious Arizona accounting firm of Winscott & Associates, where the unspeakable happens daily by Olin, the managing partner, and everyone turns a blind eye to his torrid acts. Not anymore. Our heroine, Audra, puts an end to Olin’s tyranny and he is now behind bars.
Zero Balance begins one week prior to Olin's trial. Audra is now managing partner at the firm and dealing with the aftermath of shacking things up with the firm, including dealing with clients who are bailing over the scandal surrounding the firm. The remaining partners at the firm begin to retaliate against her seeking their own vengeance.
Ms. Fontainne does a very good job of summarizing the first book at the beginning of this one. So, it is not necessary to listen to the first one beforehand to understand the story. She also does an excellent job of getting into the mind of Piper, a mentally unstable former partner.
Like in the first book, Sara Morsey’s narration was excellent. She portrayed Piper as a truly demented individual, while at the same time bringing out the calm and stress in Audra. I can’t wait to listen to book three!
Zero Balance begins one week prior to Olin's trial. Audra is now managing partner at the firm and dealing with the aftermath of shacking things up with the firm, including dealing with clients who are bailing over the scandal surrounding the firm. The remaining partners at the firm begin to retaliate against her seeking their own vengeance.
Ms. Fontainne does a very good job of summarizing the first book at the beginning of this one. So, it is not necessary to listen to the first one beforehand to understand the story. She also does an excellent job of getting into the mind of Piper, a mentally unstable former partner.
Like in the first book, Sara Morsey’s narration was excellent. She portrayed Piper as a truly demented individual, while at the same time bringing out the calm and stress in Audra. I can’t wait to listen to book three!
May 7, 2012
ZERO BALANCE
Sometimes revenge and being blinded by love can send one over the edge. That is what has happened to Piper, a former CPA who lost her loose grip on sanity. She finds out her husband is gay, the subject of her desires doesn’t want her and commits suicide when scandal threatens to break loose. The man she had an affair with rejects her and is now doing time for previous crimes. Yet poor misguided Piper still envisions a future with Olin Kemper and will do anything to set him free especially murder.
Once again we are drawn in to the world of Winscott and Associates. With Audra Tanner at the head the company is trying to recover from the loss of revenue, brought on by more scandal. Ashley Fontainne hasn’t stopped examining the depths some people go to in order to seek revenge. Murder after murder is committed to this end and the bodies pile up quickly. Zero Balance is another thrilling chapter that is a roller coaster ride of emotion and suspense. We root for the heroes, curse the villains and mourn the losses. I give this book another five gold stars.
Sometimes revenge and being blinded by love can send one over the edge. That is what has happened to Piper, a former CPA who lost her loose grip on sanity. She finds out her husband is gay, the subject of her desires doesn’t want her and commits suicide when scandal threatens to break loose. The man she had an affair with rejects her and is now doing time for previous crimes. Yet poor misguided Piper still envisions a future with Olin Kemper and will do anything to set him free especially murder.
Once again we are drawn in to the world of Winscott and Associates. With Audra Tanner at the head the company is trying to recover from the loss of revenue, brought on by more scandal. Ashley Fontainne hasn’t stopped examining the depths some people go to in order to seek revenge. Murder after murder is committed to this end and the bodies pile up quickly. Zero Balance is another thrilling chapter that is a roller coaster ride of emotion and suspense. We root for the heroes, curse the villains and mourn the losses. I give this book another five gold stars.
February 11, 2012
It has been said that revenge is a dish best served cold, but Ashley Fontaine is hot, hot, hot. Following the success of her highly acclaimed novel, ACCOUNTABLE TO NONE, this up and coming author has created a compelling drama in ZERO BALANCE that leads her readers on a fast-paced journey of action by an ingénue damaged beyond repair, but with cunning and vengeance on her mind. Fontaine writes well, populating her story with gritty, yet sympathetic characters who give readers an edge-of-the-seat “being there” feeling as the plot unfolds. Fontaine is definitely a writer readers should follow as she continues to turn out new storylines. ~Del Garrett, Author: Whispers in the Wind - The Search for Jack the Ripper.
February 27, 2012
Just as gripping as the first novel, only this one is a lot darker. Once again this author has you glued to the pages, anxiously waiting to find out what happens next. This story is also considerably longer than Accountable to None which I loved; I enjoyed spending more time with the characters. I even managed to get myself a new book boyfriend in the form of Steve. The detective we met in ATN. He's such a sweetheart. I want one.
This book is not the normal predictable story, and I defy anyone to see the outcome. What a brilliant twist.
I’m impatiently waiting for Ashley Fontainne’s next novel. Keep up the good work.
This book is not the normal predictable story, and I defy anyone to see the outcome. What a brilliant twist.
I’m impatiently waiting for Ashley Fontainne’s next novel. Keep up the good work.
September 1, 2012
"Zero Balance" by Ashley Fontainne is the ultimate revenge novel. The reason I say "ultimate" is because the revenge is carried out by four different characters at the same time. This book is easy to read and has wonderful characters. You smile when Audra's plot works wonderfully and cringe when it starts to backfire on her. Just when you think you've got a handle on the plot it goes sideways. Ashley deftly weaves the story tighter and tighter until it grabs you by the throat. "Oh No!" ... is all you can say at the end. I can't wait to read her third novel in this series.
February 29, 2012
Zero Balance
Author: Ashley Fontaine
Defiled, attached, spirit mutilated, raped: Audra would never be the same. A young CPT devoted to her job and about to be promoted to minority partner of an accounting firm, but at what cost. Dedication at what price and at your own risk? Managing partner Olin Kemper had his own agenda in mind when meeting with Audra. The end result a blood-riddled body covered in black and blues, bruises, torn and tattered clothing and an inner being, soul forever raped as well. Winscott and Associates had its own form of sorority or fraternity initiation held in their own backroom. Silence is often golden. Rewards are pricy and others will come back at you and the payment quite dear. Audra will bide her time, make her move just when things fall right into place. Accountable to None is about one young girls journey back into life and how she will make those responsible for what happened Accountable to All. Zero Balance picks up where Accountable to None ended with Audra’s rise to the top of the company. Five years later Audra would serve what they deserve and if I were you I would not want to be invited to this party. Revenge is great when you know how to orchestrate your plan and take down those that deserve your wrath. There were many that worked in the accounting firm that she now runs who crossed her one who raped her and others who went along with what Olin Kemper did. Recounting her life before all of this happened, where she was now Audra Tanner would execute the rest of her plan. Recounting her life, what happened to her as a child, her parents, losing a child the author reminds the reader of why she enacted the revenge on those working in accounting firm. Where will she go from here and what will happen when the balance of the scale tips in another direction and just what is that Zero Balance?
Crushing dreams that are vivid and do not allow her to sleep or rest though the night even though Olin is in prison the past seems to becoming back into her present. Business prospects falling through, clients leaving and going with other firms and only one other person stepping up to plate to try and rebuild what was once a thriving accounting firm. The author reminds the reader of what Audra’s past was like and for those who did not read Accountable to None you will learn about her life before she took over this company, her wronged relationships, her fall out with her family and the loss of her child.
The author continues with the first character named Piper who seems to have a vendetta to carry but first she needs to get what one unsuspecting doctor has that will help her carry out her plan. Pretending to be a reporter for a new start up magazine called Reptiles Today our elusive “Piper,” lures her way into the office of Dr. Moore whose primary goal in life is to create anti-venom for anyone bitten by a poisonous snake. Armed with several syringes and one filled with Ambien she manages to enter his office, fill his coffee cup when she feigns felling sick and knocks the poor man out. Removing several vials was easy deciding to make sure he never woke up her revenge. Not because he did anything to her but because he reminded her of someone else that was cruel to her and brought back memories of that she chose to forget so breaking the glass on the cages of the venomous snakes not really a hard choice as she leaves the same way she came unnoticed. But, our mystery killer is not done yet as her next victim is Robert. Robert Fulton had to die. He was the next victim of this avenger. Anyone who came in the direct path of convicting Olin and making sure he stayed in prison would have to be eliminated. Robert’s body was found but the connection to the doctor’s death would be made in a unique and unexpected way. Next victim was Audra’s assistant who thought she was meeting with someone from the Castle where she hoped she was going to have her wedding. Instead just like the doctor she was duped by our delusional killer and eliminated. The killer did not waste any time and the victims never thought to check her credentials. The doctor glad to have someone doing a story on his research and Gabrielle hoping to sign a contract for her wedding. Next, we hear from our killer in jail Olin who has plans of his own for our Piper and who recounts how she became and equity partner and her husband’s relationship with Ralph. Blackmail goes a long way and suicide made it easier. Piper is crazy and thinks that by eliminating everyone in Olin’s way she will have him for herself. Just why Ralph killed himself with a little help from Olin you have to read for yourself because an incriminating tape left in Nick’s car would explain it all.
Audra gets a call from Gabby’s future husband and does not realize that she is the killer’s next victim. Thinking she may have cold feet about her marriage she shrugs off the call and tells Jeff where she was planning to go and with who. But, Steve Ronson, Audra’s detective boyfriend would get a call from a prison guard that would change the complexion of the investigation and hopefully lead them to the murderer. Remembering something about Dr. Moore’s death helps Steve learn more about Robert’s. Lies, betrayals and deceits and one dangerous killer whose venom is more deadly than the poison she stole from the doctor, the snakes that bit him to death and the lethal dose she gave Robert.
Author Ashley Fontaine goes inside the mind of a serial killer who feels justified to kill for love and the mind of one man who feels wronged and cannot believe he has to pay for a murder over 30 years old. Each character’s motives, reasons, justifications and thoughts are told to the reader as he/she commits the acts they feel are justified on those that wronged them. At times the killer or another character or flashback adding to the suspense of the novel and the dramatic and frightening conclusion that you will never expect interrupts these thoughts. The author reveals to the reader the links among the many characters, the tormented mind of Piper and her rationale for what she did. But, was she alone and who was really behind the killings, the revenge and the final outcome for so many. Audra learns that her assistant Gabrielle is missing and the end result not only endangers someone close to Audra but others too. The lies, betrayals, murders, revenge and cast of characters that are so intertwined and the end result you just won’t believe. As Steve learns that Audra is in trouble and the truth behind who really wants everyone dead, include Audra is revealed you will learn that not everything and everyone is what they appear to be. You will learn that sometimes those that are good follow a different path to take care of the evil and the bad. Snake venom, poisonous personalities and a group of people that needed to reduce the balance and the books to ZERO before all is said and done. But, there is much more as the ending will leave you wondering what is next for some of our characters and what will happen when the final chapter is written. Once again author Ashley Fontaine pens a novel so intricate, so tense and so spellbinding that once you start reading you won’t stop until you find out who takes the final blow.
Fran Lewis: reviewer
Author: Ashley Fontaine
Defiled, attached, spirit mutilated, raped: Audra would never be the same. A young CPT devoted to her job and about to be promoted to minority partner of an accounting firm, but at what cost. Dedication at what price and at your own risk? Managing partner Olin Kemper had his own agenda in mind when meeting with Audra. The end result a blood-riddled body covered in black and blues, bruises, torn and tattered clothing and an inner being, soul forever raped as well. Winscott and Associates had its own form of sorority or fraternity initiation held in their own backroom. Silence is often golden. Rewards are pricy and others will come back at you and the payment quite dear. Audra will bide her time, make her move just when things fall right into place. Accountable to None is about one young girls journey back into life and how she will make those responsible for what happened Accountable to All. Zero Balance picks up where Accountable to None ended with Audra’s rise to the top of the company. Five years later Audra would serve what they deserve and if I were you I would not want to be invited to this party. Revenge is great when you know how to orchestrate your plan and take down those that deserve your wrath. There were many that worked in the accounting firm that she now runs who crossed her one who raped her and others who went along with what Olin Kemper did. Recounting her life before all of this happened, where she was now Audra Tanner would execute the rest of her plan. Recounting her life, what happened to her as a child, her parents, losing a child the author reminds the reader of why she enacted the revenge on those working in accounting firm. Where will she go from here and what will happen when the balance of the scale tips in another direction and just what is that Zero Balance?
Crushing dreams that are vivid and do not allow her to sleep or rest though the night even though Olin is in prison the past seems to becoming back into her present. Business prospects falling through, clients leaving and going with other firms and only one other person stepping up to plate to try and rebuild what was once a thriving accounting firm. The author reminds the reader of what Audra’s past was like and for those who did not read Accountable to None you will learn about her life before she took over this company, her wronged relationships, her fall out with her family and the loss of her child.
The author continues with the first character named Piper who seems to have a vendetta to carry but first she needs to get what one unsuspecting doctor has that will help her carry out her plan. Pretending to be a reporter for a new start up magazine called Reptiles Today our elusive “Piper,” lures her way into the office of Dr. Moore whose primary goal in life is to create anti-venom for anyone bitten by a poisonous snake. Armed with several syringes and one filled with Ambien she manages to enter his office, fill his coffee cup when she feigns felling sick and knocks the poor man out. Removing several vials was easy deciding to make sure he never woke up her revenge. Not because he did anything to her but because he reminded her of someone else that was cruel to her and brought back memories of that she chose to forget so breaking the glass on the cages of the venomous snakes not really a hard choice as she leaves the same way she came unnoticed. But, our mystery killer is not done yet as her next victim is Robert. Robert Fulton had to die. He was the next victim of this avenger. Anyone who came in the direct path of convicting Olin and making sure he stayed in prison would have to be eliminated. Robert’s body was found but the connection to the doctor’s death would be made in a unique and unexpected way. Next victim was Audra’s assistant who thought she was meeting with someone from the Castle where she hoped she was going to have her wedding. Instead just like the doctor she was duped by our delusional killer and eliminated. The killer did not waste any time and the victims never thought to check her credentials. The doctor glad to have someone doing a story on his research and Gabrielle hoping to sign a contract for her wedding. Next, we hear from our killer in jail Olin who has plans of his own for our Piper and who recounts how she became and equity partner and her husband’s relationship with Ralph. Blackmail goes a long way and suicide made it easier. Piper is crazy and thinks that by eliminating everyone in Olin’s way she will have him for herself. Just why Ralph killed himself with a little help from Olin you have to read for yourself because an incriminating tape left in Nick’s car would explain it all.
Audra gets a call from Gabby’s future husband and does not realize that she is the killer’s next victim. Thinking she may have cold feet about her marriage she shrugs off the call and tells Jeff where she was planning to go and with who. But, Steve Ronson, Audra’s detective boyfriend would get a call from a prison guard that would change the complexion of the investigation and hopefully lead them to the murderer. Remembering something about Dr. Moore’s death helps Steve learn more about Robert’s. Lies, betrayals and deceits and one dangerous killer whose venom is more deadly than the poison she stole from the doctor, the snakes that bit him to death and the lethal dose she gave Robert.
Author Ashley Fontaine goes inside the mind of a serial killer who feels justified to kill for love and the mind of one man who feels wronged and cannot believe he has to pay for a murder over 30 years old. Each character’s motives, reasons, justifications and thoughts are told to the reader as he/she commits the acts they feel are justified on those that wronged them. At times the killer or another character or flashback adding to the suspense of the novel and the dramatic and frightening conclusion that you will never expect interrupts these thoughts. The author reveals to the reader the links among the many characters, the tormented mind of Piper and her rationale for what she did. But, was she alone and who was really behind the killings, the revenge and the final outcome for so many. Audra learns that her assistant Gabrielle is missing and the end result not only endangers someone close to Audra but others too. The lies, betrayals, murders, revenge and cast of characters that are so intertwined and the end result you just won’t believe. As Steve learns that Audra is in trouble and the truth behind who really wants everyone dead, include Audra is revealed you will learn that not everything and everyone is what they appear to be. You will learn that sometimes those that are good follow a different path to take care of the evil and the bad. Snake venom, poisonous personalities and a group of people that needed to reduce the balance and the books to ZERO before all is said and done. But, there is much more as the ending will leave you wondering what is next for some of our characters and what will happen when the final chapter is written. Once again author Ashley Fontaine pens a novel so intricate, so tense and so spellbinding that once you start reading you won’t stop until you find out who takes the final blow.
Fran Lewis: reviewer
August 12, 2016
A never ending thrill ride!!!
I want to start my review by saying I read / listened to this book via audible.com. I find audiobooks to hold way more excitement & danger than just my own reading. I love how narrators have a way of pulling the best of the stories out at just the right times, along with proper pronunciations & accents. I think of how people always say the books was better (when referring to a movie), well in audio, we have the best of both worlds! When you have a great author & a great narrator, it's like listening to a movie!
This book is FANTASTIC!!! I liked it way better than book 1 & I didn't think that was possible. This story kept me on the edge of my seat the whole book! Every time 1 villain was caught or killed, a new twist with yet another killer would appear.
In book 1 ACCOUNTABLE TO NONE, we met Audra who had been brutally raped by her boss then given money and a promotion to keep quiet. This is how her boss Olin (the snake) handled all his accomplishments and no is not an option. The more they fight him, the more he enjoys it! Out of fear no one ever did anything up until Audra and it took her over 5 years to prepare for it & seize the opportunity for her revenge, thus putting Olin in jail and taking over the firm she is employed at.
In book 2 ZERO BALANCE, we find out that even though Olin is in jail, he still has helpers out there and Audra has more than 1 enemy! Piper, who is Olin's lover that was institutionalized is seeking justice for Olin to free him. A totally psycho bitch from the word go!!! Not only is Piper after Audra, but she teams up with Audra's ex too who was abusive to her. It is 1 solid roller coaster ride from here on with twists & turns that just amazed me. Throughout the whole book, I was on the edge of my seat. It was that good! many people will die & in the end we still don't know if Audra makes it. On to book 3...
Up until reading Ashley Fontainne's books this past week, I had never read her books before. If you like action & thrills & cliffhangers & that sitting on the edge of your seat feeling - this ladies books are for you too! The suspense is incredible & if you can, listen to it in audio!
I want to start my review by saying I read / listened to this book via audible.com. I find audiobooks to hold way more excitement & danger than just my own reading. I love how narrators have a way of pulling the best of the stories out at just the right times, along with proper pronunciations & accents. I think of how people always say the books was better (when referring to a movie), well in audio, we have the best of both worlds! When you have a great author & a great narrator, it's like listening to a movie!
This book is FANTASTIC!!! I liked it way better than book 1 & I didn't think that was possible. This story kept me on the edge of my seat the whole book! Every time 1 villain was caught or killed, a new twist with yet another killer would appear.
In book 1 ACCOUNTABLE TO NONE, we met Audra who had been brutally raped by her boss then given money and a promotion to keep quiet. This is how her boss Olin (the snake) handled all his accomplishments and no is not an option. The more they fight him, the more he enjoys it! Out of fear no one ever did anything up until Audra and it took her over 5 years to prepare for it & seize the opportunity for her revenge, thus putting Olin in jail and taking over the firm she is employed at.
In book 2 ZERO BALANCE, we find out that even though Olin is in jail, he still has helpers out there and Audra has more than 1 enemy! Piper, who is Olin's lover that was institutionalized is seeking justice for Olin to free him. A totally psycho bitch from the word go!!! Not only is Piper after Audra, but she teams up with Audra's ex too who was abusive to her. It is 1 solid roller coaster ride from here on with twists & turns that just amazed me. Throughout the whole book, I was on the edge of my seat. It was that good! many people will die & in the end we still don't know if Audra makes it. On to book 3...
Up until reading Ashley Fontainne's books this past week, I had never read her books before. If you like action & thrills & cliffhangers & that sitting on the edge of your seat feeling - this ladies books are for you too! The suspense is incredible & if you can, listen to it in audio!
September 21, 2012
I was lucky enough to win a copy of Zero Balance in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
I read the first novel in this trilogy, Accountable to None, in preparation for receiving this novel. I was very glad I did, as it was an exceptional book, more leaving me gagging for this instalment than merely whetting my appetite as I had anticipated.
This novel certainly does not disappoint either; it had me reading with an increased heart rate and heavy breathing. It's action packed and sinister from the off,
There are a few disappointing errors that I would have hoped could have been picked up on before this novel went to physical print, eg. 'site' instead of 'sight' and a rogue apostrophe or two, but luckily this did nothing to detract from the story or the fabulous characters contained therein. The magical gender-jumping of Audra's cat, Purr Baby, from female to male and back again was also quite impressive really! I had not expected to see such growth from Audra, the protagonist, from the end of the first novel. That, along with her unexpected reactions were an unlikely but delightful surprise to the reader.
Zero Balance gets it as spot on as Accountable to None did, I would certainly recommend it and will be eagerly anticipating the third and final instalment to the trilogy!
I read the first novel in this trilogy, Accountable to None, in preparation for receiving this novel. I was very glad I did, as it was an exceptional book, more leaving me gagging for this instalment than merely whetting my appetite as I had anticipated.
This novel certainly does not disappoint either; it had me reading with an increased heart rate and heavy breathing. It's action packed and sinister from the off,
There are a few disappointing errors that I would have hoped could have been picked up on before this novel went to physical print, eg. 'site' instead of 'sight' and a rogue apostrophe or two, but luckily this did nothing to detract from the story or the fabulous characters contained therein. The magical gender-jumping of Audra's cat, Purr Baby, from female to male and back again was also quite impressive really! I had not expected to see such growth from Audra, the protagonist, from the end of the first novel. That, along with her unexpected reactions were an unlikely but delightful surprise to the reader.
Zero Balance gets it as spot on as Accountable to None did, I would certainly recommend it and will be eagerly anticipating the third and final instalment to the trilogy!
September 25, 2012
BestChickLit predicted that book two in the Eviscerating the Snake series was going to be a cracker, and we were right! Picking up around nine months after Audra exacted her revenge on Olin and the other Winscott partners, the beginning of the book examines a few of the characters' emotional scars induced by the events in book one. And then the action erupts . . .
Darker and more violent, the book's narration darts between each character, which is a clever way of moving the story along at a nice pace while keeping the plot interesting. In particular, Piper's narration is perfectly depicted by Fontainne; her thoughts are manic, agitated and laced with a violence only associated with the insane, which, strangely, makes her the best character in the book - she's just so unpredictable. So, if you thought the first book couldn't be topped you're in for a shock. Zero Balances delves deeply into the depraved minds of its cast, with surprises popping up at every turn, and it's a journey you won't want to end.
Reviewed by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of BestChickLit.com
Darker and more violent, the book's narration darts between each character, which is a clever way of moving the story along at a nice pace while keeping the plot interesting. In particular, Piper's narration is perfectly depicted by Fontainne; her thoughts are manic, agitated and laced with a violence only associated with the insane, which, strangely, makes her the best character in the book - she's just so unpredictable. So, if you thought the first book couldn't be topped you're in for a shock. Zero Balances delves deeply into the depraved minds of its cast, with surprises popping up at every turn, and it's a journey you won't want to end.
Reviewed by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of BestChickLit.com
October 30, 2012
Be prepared to read not one, not two, but three books when you start reading Ashley Fontainne's Eviscerating the Snake series, starting with Accountable to None, continuing with Zero Balance and ending with Adjusting Journal Entries.
I just finished Zero Balance in a white heat, literally unable to put the book down until the end. And what an ending! Even though you are privy to the inner workings of each character's convoluted mind, they still manage to shock and surprise you.
Eviscerating the Snake is a good title for the trilogy because, like a snake, these books sneak up on you, slither around and finally entwine themselves around you and won't let go.
Ashley manages to pen a suspenseful thriller, while still getting you to reach deep inside and examine the consequences of your actions. I would highly recommend this book and all her others to anyone who wants to be pulled into another world and get lost in a thrilling, heart-pounding tale. I can't wait to see what other wonderful stories she dreams up in books to come!
I just finished Zero Balance in a white heat, literally unable to put the book down until the end. And what an ending! Even though you are privy to the inner workings of each character's convoluted mind, they still manage to shock and surprise you.
Eviscerating the Snake is a good title for the trilogy because, like a snake, these books sneak up on you, slither around and finally entwine themselves around you and won't let go.
Ashley manages to pen a suspenseful thriller, while still getting you to reach deep inside and examine the consequences of your actions. I would highly recommend this book and all her others to anyone who wants to be pulled into another world and get lost in a thrilling, heart-pounding tale. I can't wait to see what other wonderful stories she dreams up in books to come!
February 18, 2012
It's been a very long time since I actually cussed out an author because the book just....stopped. And stopped when the book is bringing you back up to another peak.
We met Audra and the team at Winscott; accounting firm in Phoenix - in Ashley's first book Accountable to None. Zero Balance is the next phase in the trilogy. The unraveling and telling of the downfall of revenge. There is a single line in the book that describes it, the actions from Accountable to None are like a drop in a pond that the far reaching ripples are turning into a tidal wave engulfing Audra.
The style this book is written in took a minute to get used to - but once I had a handle on it I could not put the damn thing down. Accountable to None was the cause, Zero Balance is the effect... I cannot wait for the third book to come out.
Ashley....for the love of Pete, write faster. :)
Kortney Gessler
Editor
Unforgettable Books, Inc.
We met Audra and the team at Winscott; accounting firm in Phoenix - in Ashley's first book Accountable to None. Zero Balance is the next phase in the trilogy. The unraveling and telling of the downfall of revenge. There is a single line in the book that describes it, the actions from Accountable to None are like a drop in a pond that the far reaching ripples are turning into a tidal wave engulfing Audra.
The style this book is written in took a minute to get used to - but once I had a handle on it I could not put the damn thing down. Accountable to None was the cause, Zero Balance is the effect... I cannot wait for the third book to come out.
Ashley....for the love of Pete, write faster. :)
Kortney Gessler
Editor
Unforgettable Books, Inc.
April 3, 2012
This one is a sequel to one I already reviewed called Accountable to None. It was a terrific follow-up. I did need to skip back to remind myself who was who but that was no hardship.
The characters once again made me gasp at some of their audaciousness, Olin in particular.
In the first book Audra wreaked revenge after being attacked by him 5 years previously.
In this follow-up his trial is imminent but interestingly the star prosecution witnesses are all under threat. You do need to read the first book or you'd be totally lost. Thankfully this one ended with a real cliffhanger but there is the final part of the trilogy to come yet !!
Now to the downside from Little Miss Picky here. There were apostrophe errors and omitted words and the trickiest for me was that Audra's cat called Purr Baby even had a sex change in the final proof !! Hehehe........but sadly that cost one star !!
I would recommend this series though. They're very good indeed.
The characters once again made me gasp at some of their audaciousness, Olin in particular.
In the first book Audra wreaked revenge after being attacked by him 5 years previously.
In this follow-up his trial is imminent but interestingly the star prosecution witnesses are all under threat. You do need to read the first book or you'd be totally lost. Thankfully this one ended with a real cliffhanger but there is the final part of the trilogy to come yet !!
Now to the downside from Little Miss Picky here. There were apostrophe errors and omitted words and the trickiest for me was that Audra's cat called Purr Baby even had a sex change in the final proof !! Hehehe........but sadly that cost one star !!
I would recommend this series though. They're very good indeed.
March 17, 2012
The Perfect Antidote for this Snake Series!
Ashley Fontainne, author of ‘Zero Balance’ brought out the venom in this series! If you have not read her first book in this series, ‘Accountable to None’ – run, don’t walk…download a copy immediately! Fontainne has established her niche in the literary world of suspense thrillers. In the ‘Fontainne’ style, she has created well developed characters surrounded in a design of homicidal brilliance.
Place revenge in a woman’s hands – grant her with assistance… add in a detective possessed in finding out the underlying reasons for such acts of evil – you have a recipe for ‘the’ perfect dish!
I give ‘Zero Balance’ Five Stars for its originality, thrills, and nail biting suspense!
Review by, Barbara Watkins, author of ‘Hollowing Screams.’
Ashley Fontainne, author of ‘Zero Balance’ brought out the venom in this series! If you have not read her first book in this series, ‘Accountable to None’ – run, don’t walk…download a copy immediately! Fontainne has established her niche in the literary world of suspense thrillers. In the ‘Fontainne’ style, she has created well developed characters surrounded in a design of homicidal brilliance.
Place revenge in a woman’s hands – grant her with assistance… add in a detective possessed in finding out the underlying reasons for such acts of evil – you have a recipe for ‘the’ perfect dish!
I give ‘Zero Balance’ Five Stars for its originality, thrills, and nail biting suspense!
Review by, Barbara Watkins, author of ‘Hollowing Screams.’
December 9, 2012
Ashley Fontaine has created a powerfully intense murder thriller. This is the first book I have read by this author and I was stunned as the further I got into it and how it escalated into thrilling action. This story is a startling revelation, you might say, of cause and effect. It highlights the characters as the author takes you into their minds to reveal their thoughts. These thoughts and actions involve those who work at Winscott Law Firm and how one death accelerates into many vindictive thoughts and evil actions of most of the characters. It definitely reflects how people's lives become out of balance with thoughts of revenge. It also proves that one really never knows another person. Reading this novel is like playing "I Spy" into these compelling, complex characters. This author has awesome creativity. This will not be the last Ashley Fontaine story that I will read.
June 20, 2012
It is very rare that I enjoy a sequel more then I enjoy the first book but this one blew me away and left me with so many questions. When is the next book coming? I MUST KNOW THE ANSWERS!!!
Nine months can change a lot in a persons life and the time can also make one feel safe again after going through something that strains so much on the mind and body. But what would you do if nine months later it started again?
Zero Balance brings out the darkness to a whole new depth. You find yourself sinking deeper and deeper into the minds of the characters and seeing just how far they are willing to go to make it all end. To finally bring it over.
Ashley is a talented writer that can and will have you turning each page with adrenaline and anticipation for what is to be around the next corner. I recommend you add this to your shelf. You won't be disappointed.
Nine months can change a lot in a persons life and the time can also make one feel safe again after going through something that strains so much on the mind and body. But what would you do if nine months later it started again?
Zero Balance brings out the darkness to a whole new depth. You find yourself sinking deeper and deeper into the minds of the characters and seeing just how far they are willing to go to make it all end. To finally bring it over.
Ashley is a talented writer that can and will have you turning each page with adrenaline and anticipation for what is to be around the next corner. I recommend you add this to your shelf. You won't be disappointed.
August 9, 2013
After reading Accountable to None for an honest review at the request of the author, I instantly became a fan. I learned there was to be a sequel and I couldn’t wait to read it. I enjoyed the first book so much that I honestly didn’t think I would enjoy the second as much, I thought “How can she beat that?” ... but oh man was I wrong.
Zero Balance is a lot darker, longer and in depth. A thrill ride with twists and turns that keep you glued to the pages and constantly wanting more. This is a must read for anyone! Yes, I did say ANYONE! Ashley Fontainne sucks you into her world, has you on tenterhooks through the whole novel and teaches you just what can happen when you are hellbent on revenge!
Zero Balance is a lot darker, longer and in depth. A thrill ride with twists and turns that keep you glued to the pages and constantly wanting more. This is a must read for anyone! Yes, I did say ANYONE! Ashley Fontainne sucks you into her world, has you on tenterhooks through the whole novel and teaches you just what can happen when you are hellbent on revenge!
May 29, 2013
This book was the second in a series on Eviscerating the Snake Series. This story was about a man was in prison for a crime that he has committed. His girl friend has taken on the mission of killing all the people who is responsible for his being imprisoned. This story includes homosexuality, rape, love, torture, kidnapping, and murder.
Author Ashley Fontainne uses a method of writing that I find interesting. She divides the book into chapters that focus on one character at a time and tells what is going on with that character. The book was a fast read and it was very interesting. I look forward to reading the next book in the series in order to find out what happens to the main character. I am interested in reading more books from this author.
Author Ashley Fontainne uses a method of writing that I find interesting. She divides the book into chapters that focus on one character at a time and tells what is going on with that character. The book was a fast read and it was very interesting. I look forward to reading the next book in the series in order to find out what happens to the main character. I am interested in reading more books from this author.
July 4, 2014
"Excellent Story of Revenge and Suspense!"
If I could sum up 'Zero Balance' in three words,
1. EdgeOfYourSeatExcitement
2. SupsensefulPageturner
3. UnforgettableRevenge
The plot in this story kept me on the edge of my seat and lingering on every word. You get to know the characters inside and out. Vividly. Their thoughts and actions. The author and narrator give so much attention to detail, it's brilliant.
I like the way Sara Morsey is able to change her tone and feel for each character with a distinct and chilling ease. This is so well done! Audra is my favorite character but Piper. Wow. Piper is so frightening and realistic. All the characters are so well established. I love this series and savoring every part of it. It's such a thrill ride. It keeps getting better and better.
If I could sum up 'Zero Balance' in three words,
1. EdgeOfYourSeatExcitement
2. SupsensefulPageturner
3. UnforgettableRevenge
The plot in this story kept me on the edge of my seat and lingering on every word. You get to know the characters inside and out. Vividly. Their thoughts and actions. The author and narrator give so much attention to detail, it's brilliant.
I like the way Sara Morsey is able to change her tone and feel for each character with a distinct and chilling ease. This is so well done! Audra is my favorite character but Piper. Wow. Piper is so frightening and realistic. All the characters are so well established. I love this series and savoring every part of it. It's such a thrill ride. It keeps getting better and better.
September 21, 2013
Zero Balance (Ashley Fontainne)
Audra Tanner uncovered secrets at her accounting firm. Olin Kemper was taken to jail. Audra advances her position with Olin away. The firm is struggling but all Audra can think of is the revenge she must seek while Olin is on trial for murder. But revenge it not all that she gets, soon people are being killed and Audra may be next.
A psychological thriller with a large cast of characters, the writing style was great. Told from each persons perspective, you could really get the feel of what they were thinking and how they felt. I would like to read the other two books in this series.
Audra Tanner uncovered secrets at her accounting firm. Olin Kemper was taken to jail. Audra advances her position with Olin away. The firm is struggling but all Audra can think of is the revenge she must seek while Olin is on trial for murder. But revenge it not all that she gets, soon people are being killed and Audra may be next.
A psychological thriller with a large cast of characters, the writing style was great. Told from each persons perspective, you could really get the feel of what they were thinking and how they felt. I would like to read the other two books in this series.
May 22, 2013
After reading Accountable to None, I jumped right into this second book in the series. After Audra, the protagonist, got revenge on her rapist and other partners in her accounting firm for looking the other way, she took over control as the managing partner and all was supposed to go well. But the trouble with revenge is it doesn't always work that way. We learn about Audra's rapist's trial and the crazy woman who will do anything for Olin including getting his own revenge on Audra. I have to admit that Olin's personal psychopath was my favorite character. As the firm encounters troubles, Audra's life is constantly in the balance, making for a very suspense-filled exciting read.
January 28, 2012
ANOTHER AWESOME HIT FOR ASHLEY FONTAINNE!
A Tour De Force! Fontainne pulls off a triumphant labyrinth maze of such great twists and turns, it had my head spinning. Her characters are so well written; they come alive on the page. A very clever, fast-paced whodunit, that keeps you guessing until the very end. Fontainne coolly dissects the underbelly of sick psychopaths and their individual tortured souls. She really displays her talented writing chops by holding up to the light for examination the extremes to which people will go in order to seek revenge.
A Tour De Force! Fontainne pulls off a triumphant labyrinth maze of such great twists and turns, it had my head spinning. Her characters are so well written; they come alive on the page. A very clever, fast-paced whodunit, that keeps you guessing until the very end. Fontainne coolly dissects the underbelly of sick psychopaths and their individual tortured souls. She really displays her talented writing chops by holding up to the light for examination the extremes to which people will go in order to seek revenge.
January 15, 2013
I did not read the first book in this series, but some how I didn't need to. This book, Zero Balance, is such an exhilarating read. Once I had started reading, the plot thickened with twists and turns. I knew I would not be able to put it down. Amazing story. Truly great characters and the devious demon characters brought this amazing story to life. Very well written. I definitely recommend reading this awesome book.
July 22, 2016
Darker and scarier than Accountable to None, but faster paced with ten times the emotional suspense. A thrill ride, from beginning to end. Not to spoil any secrets, but the villain is truly a cold-hearted killer. Revenge isn't sweet, it's murder. Zero Balance is even better than the first book! 5-Stars!!
September 27, 2013
A terrific suspense novel which picks up where Accountable to None left off. It kept me turning pages late into the night; I just had to know what happened to these characters and their lives. After finishing it, I immediately started reading the third title, Adjusting Journal Entries. Excellent writing, plot and characterization.
October 7, 2012
This is an awesome book, second in Eviscerating the Snake series by a talented new author. I read two in the trilogy and am looking forward to the next one. I understand it will be out soon.
Congrats, Ashley, on one of the best series ever and thanks for honoring me by asking me to write the foreword on this second book. My pleasure indeed.
Hugs and best with all your works,
Betty Dravis
Congrats, Ashley, on one of the best series ever and thanks for honoring me by asking me to write the foreword on this second book. My pleasure indeed.
Hugs and best with all your works,
Betty Dravis
Want to read
January 1, 2013"*** I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads ***
** The Giveaway was Listed By Ashley **
* I received my copy on Wed Sep 12th, 2012 *
THANK YOU GOODREADS FIRST READS AND Ashley! "
** The Giveaway was Listed By Ashley **
* I received my copy on Wed Sep 12th, 2012 *
THANK YOU GOODREADS FIRST READS AND Ashley! "
August 16, 2013
Audra is back and still seeing the reprocussions of her decision for revenge against Olin. Bringing him down which she did and Olin is in prison awaiting trail.
Once again its a bumpy wild ride watching everything untangle itself. There is a bit of a cliff hanger.
Once again its a bumpy wild ride watching everything untangle itself. There is a bit of a cliff hanger.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews