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Underworld Detection Agency #3
Under Suspicion
She's the new head of the Underworld Detection Agency's strangest division. What a nightmare. . .Being a human immune to magic helped Sophie Lawson get promoted. It's also made her a major, very reluctant player in a game that stretches beyond even the Underworld. Having handsome buttoned-down Englishman Will as her new guardian is one tempting blessing, especially since sexy fallen angel Alex is mysteriously MIA lately. But as a frightening number of demons start disappearing around the city, Sophie suspects that an Armageddon-level prophecy is about to become everyone's nightmare. And her investigation is testing her bravery--and Will's unexpected vulnerability--in ways neither could predict. Now Sophie and Will are fast running out of time as an unstoppable evil prepares to lay waste to demons and humans alike. . .
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
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777 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Jayne
28 books679 followersHannah is the author of the UNDERWORLD DETECTION AGENCY CHRONICLES from Kensington books and the upcoming young adult thrillers TRULY, MADLY, DEADLY and SEE JANE RUN available from Sourcebooks, Inc. When she's not battling the demons of the Underworld or tackling a murderer at Hawthorne High, Jayne kicks her feet up in her San Francisco bay area home and attempts to share couch space with two enormous cats.
Now that you're here, kick up your feet and stay awhile...
Now that you're here, kick up your feet and stay awhile...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
May 19, 2012
Under Suspicion (The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles) by Hannah Jayne (My star rating here will not meet with Amazons star system so please forgive me for that)
If anything proves the adage “don’t judge a book by its cover” then this series and their covers does. These covers have absolutely NOTHING to do with the books themselves. The heroine is as far from being a kick-ass, leather wearing, weapon toting person, as I am to an Olympic Luger.
I realize that not every author wants her/his heroine to be a kick-ass type, one who knows how to fight and has a fairly stiff back-bone. We as readers would be frustrated if we didn’t have choices, so I can see why Ms Jayne may have wanted to stick with her totally inept heroine. I HAD hoped though, that Sophie would become less whiny AND stiffen her backbone in this the third installment of “The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles”, but sadly if anything Sophie as even less heroine material and more ‘historical bodice ripper, damsel in distress’ material.
With demons (this term is pretty much used to mean anyone of a paranormal bent) going missing, demons dying, and with only Sophie taking it seriously, and her crush on her Guardian Will taking up most of her time—the story reads more as a romance that a speculative fiction. Sophie is under attack since she is of course the only one taking this seriously. Her friends are treating her as if she was an inept (she is) idiot (she is not, not really) and I have to admit even I’m starting to think this of her.
Most of the novel is spent with anyone and everyone under suspicion of the crimes that Sophie has come upon. The rest of the book is about her pining for Alex, having salacious thoughts about Will, worrying about her ‘father’, wondering if VERM is doing something suspicious (no! really?) and getting injured.
About the best thing I can say about this book, is the preview for the next book.
The author of this novel is trying too hard to make us laugh and it isn’t working for many of us. At this point, all I feel is annoyance and pity for Sophie the main character and dislike for the fact that she lets everyone including her best friend walk all over her and treat her like a moron.
This series is NOT for anyone looking for something with a strong heroine.
If anything proves the adage “don’t judge a book by its cover” then this series and their covers does. These covers have absolutely NOTHING to do with the books themselves. The heroine is as far from being a kick-ass, leather wearing, weapon toting person, as I am to an Olympic Luger.
I realize that not every author wants her/his heroine to be a kick-ass type, one who knows how to fight and has a fairly stiff back-bone. We as readers would be frustrated if we didn’t have choices, so I can see why Ms Jayne may have wanted to stick with her totally inept heroine. I HAD hoped though, that Sophie would become less whiny AND stiffen her backbone in this the third installment of “The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles”, but sadly if anything Sophie as even less heroine material and more ‘historical bodice ripper, damsel in distress’ material.
With demons (this term is pretty much used to mean anyone of a paranormal bent) going missing, demons dying, and with only Sophie taking it seriously, and her crush on her Guardian Will taking up most of her time—the story reads more as a romance that a speculative fiction. Sophie is under attack since she is of course the only one taking this seriously. Her friends are treating her as if she was an inept (she is) idiot (she is not, not really) and I have to admit even I’m starting to think this of her.
Most of the novel is spent with anyone and everyone under suspicion of the crimes that Sophie has come upon. The rest of the book is about her pining for Alex, having salacious thoughts about Will, worrying about her ‘father’, wondering if VERM is doing something suspicious (no! really?) and getting injured.
About the best thing I can say about this book, is the preview for the next book.
The author of this novel is trying too hard to make us laugh and it isn’t working for many of us. At this point, all I feel is annoyance and pity for Sophie the main character and dislike for the fact that she lets everyone including her best friend walk all over her and treat her like a moron.
This series is NOT for anyone looking for something with a strong heroine.
March 24, 2018
There are spoilers for the previous books in this review.
Six months after the end of the last book, Sophie is still trying to come to grips with the fact that Mr. Sampson is gone while the changes in the department seem to be trending towards the ousting of employees that aren’t bloodsuckers who are replaced by those who are, with Vlad being one of those promoted, making him Sophie’s new boss. To add to the tension, Alex is getting ready to go to Buffalo for a few weeks for a stakeout for the FBI and three of Sophie’s clients have been no-shows in one week, one of who is the ever prompt Mrs. Henderson. When Sophie goes to her house to investigate, she finds what appears to be a bloody crime scene. After more supernaturals are violently attacked, Sophie begins to suspect that someone is targeting them and she’s bound and determined to find out who’s trying to take down members of the Underworld.
I just don’t know if I can continue with this series. I like all of the secondary characters. I would say Nina is single-mindedly obsessed with hot guys, but her love of clothes and shoes tears her attention from the opposite sex for at least a couple hours a day. She’s great for some comic relief and to show what a stronger female character looks like, compared to the wreck that is Sophie. Vlad cracks me up with VERM (yeah, I know they don’t shorten it) and his clothing. You just know he’s dying to act normal, I’d love it if he’d ditch the act (and the nail polish) and behave like a teenaged guy, albeit one who’s over a hundred years old. I even love it when Kale puts in an appearance to act bored beyond belief or to moon over Vlad. One character I don’t like is Sophie’s boss. I think Dixon is a total douche and I really miss Mr. Sampson, who I always felt had a watered down role.
I can’t even say I missed Alex, as he’s just sort of blah. I don’t remember feeling this way about him in the other two books, but I can’t really bring myself to care that he wasn’t in this much, especially given the lackluster way he came off in the few scenes he was in at the beginning, though I still can’t decide if I want these two together or not. However, I really, really like Will and think he’s too smart and way too good for Sophie. And I’m also sick of love triangles, especially .
All of the things that I could put up with in the first two books have finally started grating on my nerves. I have nothing against reading a much lighter, chick-lit UF book, but I can’t take how freaking wimpy Sophie is. She cries over everything all the time and turns anything that happens right back to her. Someone’s out to get me, there may be another fallen angel who’s after me, everyone around me gets hurt or dies. Me, me, me, me, me. And she’s really crossing the line from sloppy over to gross and seriously disgusting. I can’t believe how many times snot was mentioned this time around as well as her need to pee. Constantly. And twice she even freaking lost control of her bladder. Then, to make matters even more nauseating, after the first time this happened in an alley, she got into someone’s car, passed out in her apartment, sat down and ate pizza and never once mentioned taking shower or changing clothes!!!! Really? Nobody, especially a couple of sensitive vampires and a werewolf, is going to be bothered by someone sitting around smelling of urine? Ugh. The second time she did it wasn’t much better and I’m pretty sure nobody who hangs around her has any sense of smell.
And in Sophie’s head, she’s always imagining herself as a bad ass in leather, etc. To quote Andrew Lincoln’s character at the end of Love Actually, enough. The author seems to be trying to make her character a cross between Stephanie Plum and Bridget Jones, with a tiny bit of Buffy thrown in, but it’s not really working for me anymore. She’s too emotional, goofy, overdramatic and this time around, pretty revolting. And the fact that nobody believed that supernaturals were being targeted was pretty ridiculous, as was Sophie telling Sergio that Will was her guardian and she’s the Vessel, all within a few minutes of meeting him. I honestly don’t know why Will doesn’t smack her upside the head sometimes.
And while I thought the head wagging thing had pretty much gone by the wayside, it reared it’s friggin’ ugly head more and more after the halfway mark, though, thankfully, it wasn’t anywhere near as bad as in the other books.
These problems make the covers all the more ridiculous. Looks-wise, the first one was okay. Then the next chick looked like Sophie’s botoxed mother. This one looks like a transvestite. And they’re all absurdly dressed and armed. They should’ve put a doughy girl on the cover in stain-covered sweats holding a doughnut and a plastic knife. It would be more appropriate. Though Sophie would probably end up stabbing herself and crying.
The list of suspects wasn’t too long and the murderer was sort of believable but the way the whole thing played out was a bit anticlimactic. And Sophie’s attempted escape from someplace was just ridiculous. Soap? Really? While there is a plot here, it moves along slowly, with most of the book being taken up by Sophie’s histrionics and inner monologue about how no one believes her. If it weren't for the secondary characters, this book would be getting a two star rating. Tops.
So, most of the above review was written as I was reading the book, and while I’m still not super excited to read the next one, the last couple of paragraphs had me intrigued and when I read a little bit of the snippet included for the next installment, I was shocked to find out who was standing at the door. Of course Sophie had to dampen my enthusiasm about who the person ended up being with the stupid/gross shit she did, but I’m more intrigued now than I was for most of the book.
Six months after the end of the last book, Sophie is still trying to come to grips with the fact that Mr. Sampson is gone while the changes in the department seem to be trending towards the ousting of employees that aren’t bloodsuckers who are replaced by those who are, with Vlad being one of those promoted, making him Sophie’s new boss. To add to the tension, Alex is getting ready to go to Buffalo for a few weeks for a stakeout for the FBI and three of Sophie’s clients have been no-shows in one week, one of who is the ever prompt Mrs. Henderson. When Sophie goes to her house to investigate, she finds what appears to be a bloody crime scene. After more supernaturals are violently attacked, Sophie begins to suspect that someone is targeting them and she’s bound and determined to find out who’s trying to take down members of the Underworld.
I just don’t know if I can continue with this series. I like all of the secondary characters. I would say Nina is single-mindedly obsessed with hot guys, but her love of clothes and shoes tears her attention from the opposite sex for at least a couple hours a day. She’s great for some comic relief and to show what a stronger female character looks like, compared to the wreck that is Sophie. Vlad cracks me up with VERM (yeah, I know they don’t shorten it) and his clothing. You just know he’s dying to act normal, I’d love it if he’d ditch the act (and the nail polish) and behave like a teenaged guy, albeit one who’s over a hundred years old. I even love it when Kale puts in an appearance to act bored beyond belief or to moon over Vlad. One character I don’t like is Sophie’s boss. I think Dixon is a total douche and I really miss Mr. Sampson, who I always felt had a watered down role.
I can’t even say I missed Alex, as he’s just sort of blah. I don’t remember feeling this way about him in the other two books, but I can’t really bring myself to care that he wasn’t in this much, especially given the lackluster way he came off in the few scenes he was in at the beginning, though I still can’t decide if I want these two together or not. However, I really, really like Will and think he’s too smart and way too good for Sophie. And I’m also sick of love triangles, especially .
All of the things that I could put up with in the first two books have finally started grating on my nerves. I have nothing against reading a much lighter, chick-lit UF book, but I can’t take how freaking wimpy Sophie is. She cries over everything all the time and turns anything that happens right back to her. Someone’s out to get me, there may be another fallen angel who’s after me, everyone around me gets hurt or dies. Me, me, me, me, me. And she’s really crossing the line from sloppy over to gross and seriously disgusting. I can’t believe how many times snot was mentioned this time around as well as her need to pee. Constantly. And twice she even freaking lost control of her bladder. Then, to make matters even more nauseating, after the first time this happened in an alley, she got into someone’s car, passed out in her apartment, sat down and ate pizza and never once mentioned taking shower or changing clothes!!!! Really? Nobody, especially a couple of sensitive vampires and a werewolf, is going to be bothered by someone sitting around smelling of urine? Ugh. The second time she did it wasn’t much better and I’m pretty sure nobody who hangs around her has any sense of smell.
And in Sophie’s head, she’s always imagining herself as a bad ass in leather, etc. To quote Andrew Lincoln’s character at the end of Love Actually, enough. The author seems to be trying to make her character a cross between Stephanie Plum and Bridget Jones, with a tiny bit of Buffy thrown in, but it’s not really working for me anymore. She’s too emotional, goofy, overdramatic and this time around, pretty revolting. And the fact that nobody believed that supernaturals were being targeted was pretty ridiculous, as was Sophie telling Sergio that Will was her guardian and she’s the Vessel, all within a few minutes of meeting him. I honestly don’t know why Will doesn’t smack her upside the head sometimes.
And while I thought the head wagging thing had pretty much gone by the wayside, it reared it’s friggin’ ugly head more and more after the halfway mark, though, thankfully, it wasn’t anywhere near as bad as in the other books.
These problems make the covers all the more ridiculous. Looks-wise, the first one was okay. Then the next chick looked like Sophie’s botoxed mother. This one looks like a transvestite. And they’re all absurdly dressed and armed. They should’ve put a doughy girl on the cover in stain-covered sweats holding a doughnut and a plastic knife. It would be more appropriate. Though Sophie would probably end up stabbing herself and crying.
The list of suspects wasn’t too long and the murderer was sort of believable but the way the whole thing played out was a bit anticlimactic. And Sophie’s attempted escape from someplace was just ridiculous. Soap? Really? While there is a plot here, it moves along slowly, with most of the book being taken up by Sophie’s histrionics and inner monologue about how no one believes her. If it weren't for the secondary characters, this book would be getting a two star rating. Tops.
So, most of the above review was written as I was reading the book, and while I’m still not super excited to read the next one, the last couple of paragraphs had me intrigued and when I read a little bit of the snippet included for the next installment, I was shocked to find out who was standing at the door. Of course Sophie had to dampen my enthusiasm about who the person ended up being with the stupid/gross shit she did, but I’m more intrigued now than I was for most of the book.
May 25, 2012
"In my imagination I am Sophie Lawson, Badass Investigator, Paranormak Specialist. I wear black leather, like a second skin; I wield a sexy, jeweled sword; I have the kind of hair that flies in gorgeous wisps over my naked, carved shoulders."
When Sophie Lawson an employee with the Underworld Detection agency begins noticing that paranormals including clients of hers are coming up missing. Determined to figure out what evil is lurking to destroy paranormals true to Sophie nature she goes against everybody's wishes and dives head first into a dangerous investigation and worrying about the consequences later. Quickly Sophie discovers that anyone that associates with her open for attack from the predator because there are signs that point Sophia as being the prime intended target. If Sophie doesn't move fast she might just find all her loves ones around her destroyed.
"Like imagining Alex Grace greased up with the coconut oil and reclining on a beach---Why couldn't I fall in love with an inmate , like a normal woman? "
When Sophia's roommate Nina begins dating Harvey a novelist writing to exploit vampires, it's a laughable Plot I enjoyed. Harvey doesn't really believe Vampires exist, yet Harvey has no idea Nina is a vampire and Sophie is being mistaken for a Vampire. The irony in that made me laugh out loud several times throughout this book.
"Alex was an earthbound angel. Fallen, if you want to be technical. But he lacked the certain technicality that made other fallen angels so annoying: he didn't want to kill me. Most of the time."
With Alex being called away out of town for an investigation this opens up the doors for Sophie to get closer to Will because he must protect her. I actually enjoyed this interaction because I didn't get bored with this new love interest and it was about time Sophie wasn't such a fan girl after Alex even though I'm a fan of his as well. Under Suspicion has set the next installment of The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles to be filled with romance and a powerful love triangle as well!
Overall this was an action packed adventure with lots of laughter and mystery to keep me guessing. I look forward to the next installment in the adventures of Sophie and the Underworld Detection Agency. My only regret is that I want more romance in Sophie's life, but Hannah Jayne left me wanting more especially with that last sentence, "It's been a long time, Sophie." and I hope to get it sooner rather than later.
ARC provided for review by Kensington
When Sophie Lawson an employee with the Underworld Detection agency begins noticing that paranormals including clients of hers are coming up missing. Determined to figure out what evil is lurking to destroy paranormals true to Sophie nature she goes against everybody's wishes and dives head first into a dangerous investigation and worrying about the consequences later. Quickly Sophie discovers that anyone that associates with her open for attack from the predator because there are signs that point Sophia as being the prime intended target. If Sophie doesn't move fast she might just find all her loves ones around her destroyed.
"Like imagining Alex Grace greased up with the coconut oil and reclining on a beach---Why couldn't I fall in love with an inmate , like a normal woman? "
When Sophia's roommate Nina begins dating Harvey a novelist writing to exploit vampires, it's a laughable Plot I enjoyed. Harvey doesn't really believe Vampires exist, yet Harvey has no idea Nina is a vampire and Sophie is being mistaken for a Vampire. The irony in that made me laugh out loud several times throughout this book.
"Alex was an earthbound angel. Fallen, if you want to be technical. But he lacked the certain technicality that made other fallen angels so annoying: he didn't want to kill me. Most of the time."
With Alex being called away out of town for an investigation this opens up the doors for Sophie to get closer to Will because he must protect her. I actually enjoyed this interaction because I didn't get bored with this new love interest and it was about time Sophie wasn't such a fan girl after Alex even though I'm a fan of his as well. Under Suspicion has set the next installment of The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles to be filled with romance and a powerful love triangle as well!
Overall this was an action packed adventure with lots of laughter and mystery to keep me guessing. I look forward to the next installment in the adventures of Sophie and the Underworld Detection Agency. My only regret is that I want more romance in Sophie's life, but Hannah Jayne left me wanting more especially with that last sentence, "It's been a long time, Sophie." and I hope to get it sooner rather than later.
ARC provided for review by Kensington
August 10, 2015
Underworld Detection Series Book #3
The cover shows a Kick-butt female, which the main character isn't. She only imagines in her mind that this is who she is, but in reality not so much and she knows it!
This is good for a fluff UF series. It has some fun and funny moments. The best friend is so weird and sometimes obnoxious for me. The main character is someone I want to root for as she stumbles around. Sometimes I think oh you are being dumb, stop it!
For me a mostly enjoyable read. Some of the negative is that it just characters stumbling and bumbling around, making it just blah at times.
The cover shows a Kick-butt female, which the main character isn't. She only imagines in her mind that this is who she is, but in reality not so much and she knows it!
This is good for a fluff UF series. It has some fun and funny moments. The best friend is so weird and sometimes obnoxious for me. The main character is someone I want to root for as she stumbles around. Sometimes I think oh you are being dumb, stop it!
For me a mostly enjoyable read. Some of the negative is that it just characters stumbling and bumbling around, making it just blah at times.
November 26, 2014
When a client doesn’t show up for an appointment, Sophie decides she needs to investigate. She quickly finds that the client isn’t the only one to disappear – or face violence
Faced with the complete indifference of her boss, colleagues and friends, Sophie decides she will track down the attacker.
Sophie is one of the most frustrating protagonists I’ve ever come across. She is supposed to be in her 30s but she is grossly immature and ridiculously incapable. She acts like a particularly inept teenager. She’s utterly dependent on the people around her and regularly collapses into tears in a puddle of limp spined jelly on the floor. Where she will get wet because she drools so much over hot guys (when not monologuing over them ridiculously) that she must be constantly standing in a puddle. Also the “Sophie gets drunk, makes a fool of herself and needs to be carried home” looks like it’s becoming a compulsory scene in every book. Sophie, you’re 33+ years old. Grow up, get yourself together and check under the couch cushions for your dignity that you must have mislaid them somewhere.
When not pushing around the decaying mass that pretends to be a plot, Sophie is finding random events that are supposed to be funny (which aren’t) or worrying about getting fat while eating chocolates and sweets.
I know that probably a lot of people would be equally as inept as Sophie. Ok, I know there are some people who may be as inept as Sophie. On their very very bad days. Maybe. It could be argued that Sophie is merely slightly incompetent (rather than utterly incompetent) person forced into circumstances outside her skill set. But she’s not – she happily “volunteers” (which is a generous way for “sticks her nose in”) to random situations she’s grossly unsuited for and then whines and falls apart because she’s grossly unsuited. Her boss in this book repeatedly tells her to mind her own business and stick to what she’s good at and I think we’re supposed to see him as villainous for doing so – but he makes a lot of sense
Sophie’s co-characters are equally shallow. She has her Guardian, an English guy with a terrible Dick Van Spike accent who exists to be hot and randomly save Sophie from whatever disaster she’s dived head first into this time. There’s her friend, the vampire Nina, old, powerful – and a caricature of silliness who manages not to be frustrating just because Sophie is so much worse. And Vlad, an old vampire who looks 16 and decides to act it as well, because why not?
Perhaps worse than all of this is the plot itself – that just doesn’t work. It is held together by dubious reasoning and bizarre behaviour on the part of the cast. So much of this book is outright contradictory or forced or convoluted it was actively irritating to read
Take the very idea that Sophie has to do all the investigating – why does it fall to her to investigate despite the fact she not only doesn’t have applicable skills (nor, for that matter, basic competence at, well, anything)? Because no-one else cares. Multiple attacks and murders on demons and no-one cares because… who knows. At no point does this book ever adequately explain why everyone is so indifferent to a serial killer in their midst – it exists surely so Sophie can be the plucky one deciding to investigate. Not only does virtually no-one care about the murders, but a surprising number of people (Including Alex who has past experience with Sophie so should really know better) treat her like an actual decent investigator (or borderline competent person) and let her wander around crime scenes. This worked in book 1 where she was providing expert knowledge for the police, but not when she’s running around dragging Dick Van Spike around with her.
Or there’s here red herrings – now every good mystery needs red herrings, false leads and set backs in an investigation – but in this book that relies on Sophie making ridiculous assumptions and clinging to them for grim death before sense finally wedges them out of her brain. When she finds a possible murder weapon she stresses over it… but doesn’t actually do anything about it. Why follow up on a clue when you can create random bizarre theories and follow them instead? I really have to show how ridiculous these theories are with an example
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Faced with the complete indifference of her boss, colleagues and friends, Sophie decides she will track down the attacker.
Sophie is one of the most frustrating protagonists I’ve ever come across. She is supposed to be in her 30s but she is grossly immature and ridiculously incapable. She acts like a particularly inept teenager. She’s utterly dependent on the people around her and regularly collapses into tears in a puddle of limp spined jelly on the floor. Where she will get wet because she drools so much over hot guys (when not monologuing over them ridiculously) that she must be constantly standing in a puddle. Also the “Sophie gets drunk, makes a fool of herself and needs to be carried home” looks like it’s becoming a compulsory scene in every book. Sophie, you’re 33+ years old. Grow up, get yourself together and check under the couch cushions for your dignity that you must have mislaid them somewhere.
When not pushing around the decaying mass that pretends to be a plot, Sophie is finding random events that are supposed to be funny (which aren’t) or worrying about getting fat while eating chocolates and sweets.
I know that probably a lot of people would be equally as inept as Sophie. Ok, I know there are some people who may be as inept as Sophie. On their very very bad days. Maybe. It could be argued that Sophie is merely slightly incompetent (rather than utterly incompetent) person forced into circumstances outside her skill set. But she’s not – she happily “volunteers” (which is a generous way for “sticks her nose in”) to random situations she’s grossly unsuited for and then whines and falls apart because she’s grossly unsuited. Her boss in this book repeatedly tells her to mind her own business and stick to what she’s good at and I think we’re supposed to see him as villainous for doing so – but he makes a lot of sense
Sophie’s co-characters are equally shallow. She has her Guardian, an English guy with a terrible Dick Van Spike accent who exists to be hot and randomly save Sophie from whatever disaster she’s dived head first into this time. There’s her friend, the vampire Nina, old, powerful – and a caricature of silliness who manages not to be frustrating just because Sophie is so much worse. And Vlad, an old vampire who looks 16 and decides to act it as well, because why not?
Perhaps worse than all of this is the plot itself – that just doesn’t work. It is held together by dubious reasoning and bizarre behaviour on the part of the cast. So much of this book is outright contradictory or forced or convoluted it was actively irritating to read
Take the very idea that Sophie has to do all the investigating – why does it fall to her to investigate despite the fact she not only doesn’t have applicable skills (nor, for that matter, basic competence at, well, anything)? Because no-one else cares. Multiple attacks and murders on demons and no-one cares because… who knows. At no point does this book ever adequately explain why everyone is so indifferent to a serial killer in their midst – it exists surely so Sophie can be the plucky one deciding to investigate. Not only does virtually no-one care about the murders, but a surprising number of people (Including Alex who has past experience with Sophie so should really know better) treat her like an actual decent investigator (or borderline competent person) and let her wander around crime scenes. This worked in book 1 where she was providing expert knowledge for the police, but not when she’s running around dragging Dick Van Spike around with her.
Or there’s here red herrings – now every good mystery needs red herrings, false leads and set backs in an investigation – but in this book that relies on Sophie making ridiculous assumptions and clinging to them for grim death before sense finally wedges them out of her brain. When she finds a possible murder weapon she stresses over it… but doesn’t actually do anything about it. Why follow up on a clue when you can create random bizarre theories and follow them instead? I really have to show how ridiculous these theories are with an example
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July 1, 2012
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: More of the same in this book I’m afraid, but with some actual romance.
Opening Sentence: You’d think by the time a guy had gained immortality, he’d tire of copying his butt on the office copy machine.
The Review:
For Sophie Lawson, being the spawn of Satan has its good points and bad points. In the case of this story, Sophie’s genetic gift of magical immunity has allowed her to be placed as the chief of the UDA’s Fallen Angel Division. Also, being the one thing that most would give their left arm for doesn’t hurt. Though, you wouldn’t know that her job had changed much, since in this book we see her performing many of the same tasks as before, and dealing with the same clients.
In this book, though, being her client turns out to be a rather deadly proposition. It seems that someone has decided to clean up her town by taking out all of its otherworldly inhabitants, starting with the names in Sophie’s rolodex. And when Sophie herself is attacked, she realizes just how close to home this threat is, and she vows to neutralize it.
Around this same time an author who is famous for his books debunking the myths surrounding everything Sophie holds dear, and her vampire roommate fall in love. How funny, the famous myth buster dating a real life myth, one he himself has discounted. After a few more attacks, Sophie becomes convinced that this author is the key to the mystery, in fact he may even be the murderer himself.
Sophie being Sophie, ends up bumbling her way around the author, her roommate and a few more murder scenes, all in search of the perp. And poor Will, as her guardian, feels compelled to trail along behind her, trying his damndest to keep her alive. She doesn’t make this easy for him, as usual, and even goes as far as being kidnapped, yet again.
Will, good guy that he is, runs to her rescue, fights the bad guy, with some help from Sophie. And it does turn out that the author plays a role in this adventure, just not as the bad guy. The clueless guy, maybe, but not the bad one.
Oh and there is one more spot of good news…Sophie was finally allowed to have some fun *wink, wink* in this book, with Will of all people. And then, because we just couldn’t be allowed to feel good about it all, she just has to run into Alex in the hallway while doing her morning after walk of shame. And just when we thought Alex was gone for good.
When all is said and done, I give these books a “just OK for me.” They just weren’t as exciting as I wanted them to be, in fact I found it all too easy to put them down and return to my regular life. Light and easy reading, sure, and if that’s what you’re looking for then great. But, like my fellow reviewer said, if you’re looking for a story like the one promised by the cover, look not in these pages.
Notable Scene:
“Hello?” I asked. “Is someone there?”
I heard the distinctive crunch of feet on gravel and then another wince. As much as I wanted to avoid another naked Vlad-and-Kale situation, something inside me was drawn, desperate to help. Before I could think better of it, I ran into the alley. My footfalls echoed heavily between the buildings, and the limp wail, the crunching gravel, was gone.
“Hello?” I asked again.
My voice bounced off the wall and was cut off by my own scream.
Something hit me hard, cracking against the back of my head. I pitched forward, my palms and chest making contact with the damp cement. Beads of gravel dug into my skin. My knees throbbed and I tried to cry out a second time, but my breath was gone and my mouth was filled with the hot, metallic taste of blood. Someone yanked me, flipping me over s my tender skull smacked the cement. Bright white light burst in front of my eyes. I felt the urge to vomit, to cry, to wail, but my eyes began to focus. I saw my assailant above me, both hands hugging a sharpened dowel, both coming directly at my chest. There was an “oof!” and a scream, and the sharpened edge of the stake dug at my collarbone and slid over my breast.
FTC Advisory: Kensington Books provided me with a copy of Under Suspicion. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: More of the same in this book I’m afraid, but with some actual romance.
Opening Sentence: You’d think by the time a guy had gained immortality, he’d tire of copying his butt on the office copy machine.
The Review:
For Sophie Lawson, being the spawn of Satan has its good points and bad points. In the case of this story, Sophie’s genetic gift of magical immunity has allowed her to be placed as the chief of the UDA’s Fallen Angel Division. Also, being the one thing that most would give their left arm for doesn’t hurt. Though, you wouldn’t know that her job had changed much, since in this book we see her performing many of the same tasks as before, and dealing with the same clients.
In this book, though, being her client turns out to be a rather deadly proposition. It seems that someone has decided to clean up her town by taking out all of its otherworldly inhabitants, starting with the names in Sophie’s rolodex. And when Sophie herself is attacked, she realizes just how close to home this threat is, and she vows to neutralize it.
Around this same time an author who is famous for his books debunking the myths surrounding everything Sophie holds dear, and her vampire roommate fall in love. How funny, the famous myth buster dating a real life myth, one he himself has discounted. After a few more attacks, Sophie becomes convinced that this author is the key to the mystery, in fact he may even be the murderer himself.
Sophie being Sophie, ends up bumbling her way around the author, her roommate and a few more murder scenes, all in search of the perp. And poor Will, as her guardian, feels compelled to trail along behind her, trying his damndest to keep her alive. She doesn’t make this easy for him, as usual, and even goes as far as being kidnapped, yet again.
Will, good guy that he is, runs to her rescue, fights the bad guy, with some help from Sophie. And it does turn out that the author plays a role in this adventure, just not as the bad guy. The clueless guy, maybe, but not the bad one.
Oh and there is one more spot of good news…Sophie was finally allowed to have some fun *wink, wink* in this book, with Will of all people. And then, because we just couldn’t be allowed to feel good about it all, she just has to run into Alex in the hallway while doing her morning after walk of shame. And just when we thought Alex was gone for good.
When all is said and done, I give these books a “just OK for me.” They just weren’t as exciting as I wanted them to be, in fact I found it all too easy to put them down and return to my regular life. Light and easy reading, sure, and if that’s what you’re looking for then great. But, like my fellow reviewer said, if you’re looking for a story like the one promised by the cover, look not in these pages.
Notable Scene:
“Hello?” I asked. “Is someone there?”
I heard the distinctive crunch of feet on gravel and then another wince. As much as I wanted to avoid another naked Vlad-and-Kale situation, something inside me was drawn, desperate to help. Before I could think better of it, I ran into the alley. My footfalls echoed heavily between the buildings, and the limp wail, the crunching gravel, was gone.
“Hello?” I asked again.
My voice bounced off the wall and was cut off by my own scream.
Something hit me hard, cracking against the back of my head. I pitched forward, my palms and chest making contact with the damp cement. Beads of gravel dug into my skin. My knees throbbed and I tried to cry out a second time, but my breath was gone and my mouth was filled with the hot, metallic taste of blood. Someone yanked me, flipping me over s my tender skull smacked the cement. Bright white light burst in front of my eyes. I felt the urge to vomit, to cry, to wail, but my eyes began to focus. I saw my assailant above me, both hands hugging a sharpened dowel, both coming directly at my chest. There was an “oof!” and a scream, and the sharpened edge of the stake dug at my collarbone and slid over my breast.
FTC Advisory: Kensington Books provided me with a copy of Under Suspicion. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
May 25, 2012
GENRE: Urban Fantasy
THEME: Vampires, Werewolf, and Angels
RECEIVED: Received for Review from Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Sophie Lawson is back! Hannah Jayne does it again and this time Sophie gets deeply involved in a dangerous case. I really enjoy Jayne’s writing and her very dynamic characters that she has created, plus adding some humor in the mix makes it all that more entertaining.
Sophie is a rare “human” known as the Vessel and she even has her very own Guardian Will, whom protects her a lot. Luckily he’s around to watch over her because supernatural beings are being targeted and since the Angel Alex isn’t around to help she and Will get deep in some trouble trying to figure out what’s going on. Sophie I felt has grown up a little more in the novel, she’s not pinning over Alex as much because he’s on a mission of his own this time around. She concentrates more on how Supernatural beings are disappearing and being targeted by an unknown person, and she seems to be in the middle of it all. I like how she takes things into her own hands when know one else will listen, no matter how much she puts herself in danger.
Will, Sophie’s Guardian got a major role, which of course I loved! I feel he has a better connection with her and also has done a lot to keep her safe. He also is the only one that helps her with the case, Nina is too love struck with a writer and in wanting to write a novel of her own. So Will seems to be the only one here for Sophie and gets to steam it up with her as well.
Nina, Sophie’s BFF and vampire was actually not my favorite this time around. She was in a way rude to Sophie not understanding that her friend has been through a lot and is in the middle of something dangerous. She really only cared about this very stuck up writer, that doesn’t believe in the supernatural. I hope she can redeem herself in the next novel, but I do always love her off the wall fashionista humor.
In the end there is a cliffhanger and thank the gods there was an excerpt in the back for me to read or I would have been freaking out. But I’m so excited to say one of my favorite characters is back, not sure for how long though. Sophie has a lot to look forward to and I think Alex and Will are going to need to work together with her to stop the dangers that are coming.
Overall I really enjoyed this third installment, I can’t wait to see what happens next. Especially in the romance category since there is a bit of a love triangle. Though I’m Team Will at this point. The writing is great and Sophie is such a quirky and entertaining lead that I’m always excited to see what she does next. I highly recommend this Urban Fantasy series and everyone should start reading this asap!
RECOMMENDATION:
This is an adult novel with humor, action and all the right stuff that everyone wants in the Urban Fantasy genre. Fans of authors Ann Aguirre and Jennifer Estep will be captivated by Hannah Jayne’s novel Under Suspicion.
THEME: Vampires, Werewolf, and Angels
RECEIVED: Received for Review from Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Sophie Lawson is back! Hannah Jayne does it again and this time Sophie gets deeply involved in a dangerous case. I really enjoy Jayne’s writing and her very dynamic characters that she has created, plus adding some humor in the mix makes it all that more entertaining.
Sophie is a rare “human” known as the Vessel and she even has her very own Guardian Will, whom protects her a lot. Luckily he’s around to watch over her because supernatural beings are being targeted and since the Angel Alex isn’t around to help she and Will get deep in some trouble trying to figure out what’s going on. Sophie I felt has grown up a little more in the novel, she’s not pinning over Alex as much because he’s on a mission of his own this time around. She concentrates more on how Supernatural beings are disappearing and being targeted by an unknown person, and she seems to be in the middle of it all. I like how she takes things into her own hands when know one else will listen, no matter how much she puts herself in danger.
Will, Sophie’s Guardian got a major role, which of course I loved! I feel he has a better connection with her and also has done a lot to keep her safe. He also is the only one that helps her with the case, Nina is too love struck with a writer and in wanting to write a novel of her own. So Will seems to be the only one here for Sophie and gets to steam it up with her as well.
Nina, Sophie’s BFF and vampire was actually not my favorite this time around. She was in a way rude to Sophie not understanding that her friend has been through a lot and is in the middle of something dangerous. She really only cared about this very stuck up writer, that doesn’t believe in the supernatural. I hope she can redeem herself in the next novel, but I do always love her off the wall fashionista humor.
In the end there is a cliffhanger and thank the gods there was an excerpt in the back for me to read or I would have been freaking out. But I’m so excited to say one of my favorite characters is back, not sure for how long though. Sophie has a lot to look forward to and I think Alex and Will are going to need to work together with her to stop the dangers that are coming.
Overall I really enjoyed this third installment, I can’t wait to see what happens next. Especially in the romance category since there is a bit of a love triangle. Though I’m Team Will at this point. The writing is great and Sophie is such a quirky and entertaining lead that I’m always excited to see what she does next. I highly recommend this Urban Fantasy series and everyone should start reading this asap!
RECOMMENDATION:
This is an adult novel with humor, action and all the right stuff that everyone wants in the Urban Fantasy genre. Fans of authors Ann Aguirre and Jennifer Estep will be captivated by Hannah Jayne’s novel Under Suspicion.
May 12, 2012
4.5 stars
The third book of the Underworld Detection Agency series is here and Hannah Jayne made her miracle again! “Under Suspicion” is as good as the previous two books. This urban fantasy story is different from other books of this genre because it’s more funnier. I love that there are many mentions to modern TV shows, movies and books. The characters are great. Even the ones that the reader won’t really like, are very well-written.
Sophie, as we know is immune to magic, and now she has troubles again. She with her Guardian, a sexy English guy, Will are trying to solve the mystery of demons’ disappearing. Sophie is as always witty and funny. Sometimes I think that she is too funny for her own good! Also, I have a feeling that Sophie is trying to please everyone but only a few people really care about her feelings.
Will is a great guy! I love him! He’s also funny and witty and he is very good person. I was sorry for him sometimes because his feelings were obvious to other people but not to Sophie. He is always there for her, helps her and keeps her company. I think that he is what Sophie really needs.
Nina is selfish as always! But I love her! Sometimes I thought that she isn’t very good friend for Sophie but now I really think that she’s just different. She has the greatest lines in this story! She is the best female vampire ever, because she knows everything about fashion and she doesn’t look like other vampires. You’ll love her!
A very nice story that all the fans of urban fantasy will definitely enjoy reading!
The third book of the Underworld Detection Agency series is here and Hannah Jayne made her miracle again! “Under Suspicion” is as good as the previous two books. This urban fantasy story is different from other books of this genre because it’s more funnier. I love that there are many mentions to modern TV shows, movies and books. The characters are great. Even the ones that the reader won’t really like, are very well-written.
Sophie, as we know is immune to magic, and now she has troubles again. She with her Guardian, a sexy English guy, Will are trying to solve the mystery of demons’ disappearing. Sophie is as always witty and funny. Sometimes I think that she is too funny for her own good! Also, I have a feeling that Sophie is trying to please everyone but only a few people really care about her feelings.
Will is a great guy! I love him! He’s also funny and witty and he is very good person. I was sorry for him sometimes because his feelings were obvious to other people but not to Sophie. He is always there for her, helps her and keeps her company. I think that he is what Sophie really needs.
Nina is selfish as always! But I love her! Sometimes I thought that she isn’t very good friend for Sophie but now I really think that she’s just different. She has the greatest lines in this story! She is the best female vampire ever, because she knows everything about fashion and she doesn’t look like other vampires. You’ll love her!
A very nice story that all the fans of urban fantasy will definitely enjoy reading!
May 19, 2012
I have enjoyed this series so far, but this book is a letdown. Sophie becomes more paranoid as those around her disappear and no one at the UDE seems remotely interested, despite the very obvious evidence.
The sole plucky heroine against the world; making stupid decisions, with those closest around her acting against type, building to a huge , somewhat forced conspiracy.
The sole plucky heroine against the world; making stupid decisions, with those closest around her acting against type, building to a huge , somewhat forced conspiracy.
May 25, 2012
Humorous. Would have been really good if secondary characters weren't morons and the plot obvious. What's worse, the editing. Did anyone proof read this thing? "Kale handled over her precious stack (of folders)." "Will started pulling dollars bills from his billfold."
February 27, 2018
OK, we are heading back into the realm of awesomeness that the first book of the series really captured for me. There’s a definite shift from “crying-all-the-time Sophie” into this “crying-less-but-still-getting-really-hurt Sophie” that I liked a lot. Yes, she still pines over the annoying jerky angel, but with Will in the mix, I forgave her those moments of weakness.
I guess I expected this book to show Sophie being awesome in her new position, tracking fallen angels, but there is maybe one or two sentences around it and nothing more. Instead, this book shows Sophie realizing that a shockingly large percentage of her clients are suddenly missing (or dead, or missing and then found dead). While she’s alarmed by this, it looks like her largely vampire management is not dedicating the necessary resources to finding the killer.
At the same time, Nina is still awesome, but seriously distracted with an obsession about becoming a writer and dating a writer. Normal, right? Except for the fact that said writer makes a living proving that vampires and other supernaturals don’t exist. I guess their differences will make their romance interesting. The murder-mystery aspect of the story wasn’t exactly surprising, but did keep the plot moving along. I was happy to see Sophie start to become more of her own independent character (and have some sexy times), so I will keep my fingers crossed that it continues in the next book. For such a tough woman, she certainly falls apart an awful lot.
I guess I expected this book to show Sophie being awesome in her new position, tracking fallen angels, but there is maybe one or two sentences around it and nothing more. Instead, this book shows Sophie realizing that a shockingly large percentage of her clients are suddenly missing (or dead, or missing and then found dead). While she’s alarmed by this, it looks like her largely vampire management is not dedicating the necessary resources to finding the killer.
At the same time, Nina is still awesome, but seriously distracted with an obsession about becoming a writer and dating a writer. Normal, right? Except for the fact that said writer makes a living proving that vampires and other supernaturals don’t exist. I guess their differences will make their romance interesting. The murder-mystery aspect of the story wasn’t exactly surprising, but did keep the plot moving along. I was happy to see Sophie start to become more of her own independent character (and have some sexy times), so I will keep my fingers crossed that it continues in the next book. For such a tough woman, she certainly falls apart an awful lot.
January 16, 2021
Life for Sophie just doesn’t want to settle down. UDA management is going through an organizational shake-up and Alex is going on a work trip. At a book signing by her favorite author, nutty Nina meets ‘the man of her dreams’ only to find out that he debunks the existence of vampires. Plus someone is trying to kill her and keeps hitting her friends.
Footnote: Hypothetical question: Why would Satan who is evil be down in hell torturing other evil guys? Wouldn’t an evil leader be happy that his subjects are being bad and want to torture the good guys?
Fave scenes: comforting the banshee, Vlad getting the files and Sophie escaping the bathroom.
Footnote: Hypothetical question: Why would Satan who is evil be down in hell torturing other evil guys? Wouldn’t an evil leader be happy that his subjects are being bad and want to torture the good guys?
Fave scenes: comforting the banshee, Vlad getting the files and Sophie escaping the bathroom.
April 7, 2019
Easy to read , keeps your interest
This is the third of the series, some fun ,some dumb, but easy to keep up with all characters and holds your interest. I usually read 2 or 3 books at a time but this series kept me in the one book of in other words i didn't get bored with it.
This is the third of the series, some fun ,some dumb, but easy to keep up with all characters and holds your interest. I usually read 2 or 3 books at a time but this series kept me in the one book of in other words i didn't get bored with it.
April 30, 2019
Lord....
I love this series!!
Sophie is a klutz, a vessel and a great friend.
But after Nina starts dating an author who writes books about Vamps etc etc not being alive, things get a bit dicey for Sophie and the others.
Great fun.
I love this series!!
Sophie is a klutz, a vessel and a great friend.
But after Nina starts dating an author who writes books about Vamps etc etc not being alive, things get a bit dicey for Sophie and the others.
Great fun.
April 24, 2023
I continue to have fun reading these goofy books but it’s getting dodgy in terms of rehashed finales (another trick abandoned house?) and things that make zero sense given the established parameters (why does no one believe her about anything, this book, when they did the two previous?)
September 7, 2017
While it wasn't the best .. it was funny
April 2, 2018
uhum, not good. IDK if I'll continue this series or not. my logic tell me: 3 books left to finish this installment. but my heart: stop, stop, stop reading whatever it is!
April 30, 2019
The story line hits all the points, suspenseful, laughable, romantic, and intriguing. Love it
February 19, 2020
Too similar to other authors and books I have read. The main female character goes out and solve crimes. So Stephanie Plum with the romantic triangle.
May 25, 2012
A new position at the UDA ensures Sophie will have her hands full yet again. If she can keep it that is. The vampires are infiltrating every position at the UDA and Sophie fears her new job might not be hers for long. Especially if she keeps defying orders not to investigate the disappearances and attacks of her clients.
Along with her guardian Will, Sophie sets out to figure out who or what is attacking everyone around her and why vampires seem to be the only ones unaffected.
Sophie Lawson is back in this third installment of the Underworld Detection Agency series and she’s got a new job as the head of the fallen angels division. As being the only person at the UDA who has dealt with not one but two fallen angels, the head of the UDA, Dixon has rethought his decision to fire her and has instead given her a promotion of sorts. Except right from the beginning Sophie can tell something is up. The vampires are taking over the UDA slowly but noticeably. Including Vlad who has now become Sophie’s boss. Her favorite love-to-hate client Mrs Henderson had disappeared leaving her house in disarray and dragon blood all over the walls. A drowned Centaur is also found at the bottom of one of the piers. Dixon doesn’t seem too enthused to go looking for the killer and refuses to connect the two together.
When a banshee client comes in claiming to have been attacked Sophie knows she can sit idly by no longer. She’s on her own this time because Alex has left town and won’t answer her calls. She becomes dependent upon her guardian, Will to be by her side. Poor Will, I feel kinda bad for him. Sophie is still hung up on Alex and Will is hung up on her. He is dependable though and takes his role of guardian seriously and tries his best to keep her safe. Doesn’t mean she doesn’t get beat to a pulp several times. I swear, you’d think by the third book the woman would either learn to use a gun or maybe take some fighting classes but she seems content to be a punching bag for every baddie wanting to take over the world.
Of course Nina is back with her hilarious one liners and continuous banter being lobbed between her and every single person she meets. Her dialogue definitely spices this one up. I love her protectiveness and human qualities. She has found her soul mate in a writer that is ironically out to disprove that vampires exist and who may also have a role in the string of supernatural killing plaguing the city. Sophie isn’t sure what he is hiding but she’s sure it’s something. Then there is the fact none of the attacks have been on vampires. Could the vampire movement Vlad is a part of be behind everything and if so is Vlad secretly out to kill Sophie?
I found Under Suspicion to be aptly named since mostly everyone is a suspect in this one. With Alex mostly out of the picture till the most inopportune time Sophie and Will become closer and honestly I’m kind of rooting for them at this point. Pending Will doesn’t turn out to be a psychopath of course. Alex is just so douchey. Leaving Sophie pretty much unprotected makes me think yet again that he might only be out for his greater good.
The continuation of the UDA story line is well wrote and while the fluffiness can get a bit old at times I like the direction and evolution the series is starting to take. I am looking forward to finding out what happens next after the cliff hanger ending that has now ensured I tune back in for the fourth book (publication unknown).
I give Under Suspicion by Hannah Jayne 3.50 stars!
Along with her guardian Will, Sophie sets out to figure out who or what is attacking everyone around her and why vampires seem to be the only ones unaffected.
Sophie Lawson is back in this third installment of the Underworld Detection Agency series and she’s got a new job as the head of the fallen angels division. As being the only person at the UDA who has dealt with not one but two fallen angels, the head of the UDA, Dixon has rethought his decision to fire her and has instead given her a promotion of sorts. Except right from the beginning Sophie can tell something is up. The vampires are taking over the UDA slowly but noticeably. Including Vlad who has now become Sophie’s boss. Her favorite love-to-hate client Mrs Henderson had disappeared leaving her house in disarray and dragon blood all over the walls. A drowned Centaur is also found at the bottom of one of the piers. Dixon doesn’t seem too enthused to go looking for the killer and refuses to connect the two together.
When a banshee client comes in claiming to have been attacked Sophie knows she can sit idly by no longer. She’s on her own this time because Alex has left town and won’t answer her calls. She becomes dependent upon her guardian, Will to be by her side. Poor Will, I feel kinda bad for him. Sophie is still hung up on Alex and Will is hung up on her. He is dependable though and takes his role of guardian seriously and tries his best to keep her safe. Doesn’t mean she doesn’t get beat to a pulp several times. I swear, you’d think by the third book the woman would either learn to use a gun or maybe take some fighting classes but she seems content to be a punching bag for every baddie wanting to take over the world.
Of course Nina is back with her hilarious one liners and continuous banter being lobbed between her and every single person she meets. Her dialogue definitely spices this one up. I love her protectiveness and human qualities. She has found her soul mate in a writer that is ironically out to disprove that vampires exist and who may also have a role in the string of supernatural killing plaguing the city. Sophie isn’t sure what he is hiding but she’s sure it’s something. Then there is the fact none of the attacks have been on vampires. Could the vampire movement Vlad is a part of be behind everything and if so is Vlad secretly out to kill Sophie?
I found Under Suspicion to be aptly named since mostly everyone is a suspect in this one. With Alex mostly out of the picture till the most inopportune time Sophie and Will become closer and honestly I’m kind of rooting for them at this point. Pending Will doesn’t turn out to be a psychopath of course. Alex is just so douchey. Leaving Sophie pretty much unprotected makes me think yet again that he might only be out for his greater good.
The continuation of the UDA story line is well wrote and while the fluffiness can get a bit old at times I like the direction and evolution the series is starting to take. I am looking forward to finding out what happens next after the cliff hanger ending that has now ensured I tune back in for the fourth book (publication unknown).
I give Under Suspicion by Hannah Jayne 3.50 stars!
May 25, 2012
Expected publication: May 1st 2012 by Kensington Publishing Corporation
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Review*
Under Suspicion finds our reluctant heroine Sophie Lawson with a new job title (head of the Fallen Angel Department for the Underground Detection Agency) and worries that she may be out of a job shortly if her boss, Dixon Andrade, continues to fill positions with vampires only.
Sophie, if you haven’t read the series before, is immune to magic of any kind and the so called guardian of souls for which heaven and hell are searching high and low for. She's pretty sure her father is Lucifer himself and wonders when, or if, she will ever meet him in person.
Then there's the fact that missing paranormals have turned up or attacked and Sophie feels that someone is up to no good. When she is completely ignored by Dixon, Sophie once again finds herself in deep kimchee in trying to piece together the puzzle before any other paranorms disappear or turn up dead.
Sophie ends up being attacked on more than one occasion obviously mistaken for being a vampire, or another paranormal creature. When Sophie figures out who the real bad buy is, it’s nearly too late to save her and Will from being smoked.
Sophie’s relationship with Alex takes a turn for the bizarre after he claims that he is going to Buffalo on a stake-out and isn't sure when he's going to be back. That leaves Sophie in the more than capable hands of her guardian angel Will who is more than adept at taking care of Sophie and keeping her out of harms way.
“Will stood up with me, and his palm slid up to meet mine. Our fingers instinctively laced together. I sucked in a sharp, guilty breath and tried to convince myself that the speed up of my heart was due to our impending meeting, rather than the comfortable way our hands fit together; the ease of our conversation, even when we were walking in circles; the way the golden flecks in his hazel eyes exploded when he looked at me.”
There are also humorous elements to this story as Nina LaShay, Sophie’s vampire roommate, falls for an author named Harley who goes around debunking the very existence of vampires and other paranormals. Most of the time Nina’s character is a hit or miss for me. At times she is really supportive and kick-ass when it comes to protecting Sophie from harm. At other times, she is an annoying fashionista who just can’t help but complain about the things Sophie wears and totally goes around ignoring Sophie’s concerns until it is almost too late.
I think the most interesting storyline was that of Sophie and Will and how they come together. Naturally, there is a huge, I mean epic cliffhanger that leaves me panting for more. Just when you thought this series couldn’t get better, WHAMO!
Best quotes:
“In my imagination I am Sophie Lawson, Badass Investigator, Paranormal Specialist. I wear black leather, like a second skin; I wield a sexy, jeweled sword; I have the kind of hair that flies in gorgeous wisps over my naked, carved shoulders.”
“Screaming hormones or not, I was a woman with a mission.
“”You’re pretty,” I heard myself say.
Sophie Lawson, Quivering Puddle of Undersexed Jelly.
Under Suspicion was kindly provided to me by Kensington for the purpose of an honest review. No money transferred hands, and the review above is my opinion only and not subjected to outside influences.
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Review*
Under Suspicion finds our reluctant heroine Sophie Lawson with a new job title (head of the Fallen Angel Department for the Underground Detection Agency) and worries that she may be out of a job shortly if her boss, Dixon Andrade, continues to fill positions with vampires only.
Sophie, if you haven’t read the series before, is immune to magic of any kind and the so called guardian of souls for which heaven and hell are searching high and low for. She's pretty sure her father is Lucifer himself and wonders when, or if, she will ever meet him in person.
Then there's the fact that missing paranormals have turned up or attacked and Sophie feels that someone is up to no good. When she is completely ignored by Dixon, Sophie once again finds herself in deep kimchee in trying to piece together the puzzle before any other paranorms disappear or turn up dead.
Sophie ends up being attacked on more than one occasion obviously mistaken for being a vampire, or another paranormal creature. When Sophie figures out who the real bad buy is, it’s nearly too late to save her and Will from being smoked.
Sophie’s relationship with Alex takes a turn for the bizarre after he claims that he is going to Buffalo on a stake-out and isn't sure when he's going to be back. That leaves Sophie in the more than capable hands of her guardian angel Will who is more than adept at taking care of Sophie and keeping her out of harms way.
“Will stood up with me, and his palm slid up to meet mine. Our fingers instinctively laced together. I sucked in a sharp, guilty breath and tried to convince myself that the speed up of my heart was due to our impending meeting, rather than the comfortable way our hands fit together; the ease of our conversation, even when we were walking in circles; the way the golden flecks in his hazel eyes exploded when he looked at me.”
There are also humorous elements to this story as Nina LaShay, Sophie’s vampire roommate, falls for an author named Harley who goes around debunking the very existence of vampires and other paranormals. Most of the time Nina’s character is a hit or miss for me. At times she is really supportive and kick-ass when it comes to protecting Sophie from harm. At other times, she is an annoying fashionista who just can’t help but complain about the things Sophie wears and totally goes around ignoring Sophie’s concerns until it is almost too late.
I think the most interesting storyline was that of Sophie and Will and how they come together. Naturally, there is a huge, I mean epic cliffhanger that leaves me panting for more. Just when you thought this series couldn’t get better, WHAMO!
Best quotes:
“In my imagination I am Sophie Lawson, Badass Investigator, Paranormal Specialist. I wear black leather, like a second skin; I wield a sexy, jeweled sword; I have the kind of hair that flies in gorgeous wisps over my naked, carved shoulders.”
“Screaming hormones or not, I was a woman with a mission.
“”You’re pretty,” I heard myself say.
Sophie Lawson, Quivering Puddle of Undersexed Jelly.
Under Suspicion was kindly provided to me by Kensington for the purpose of an honest review. No money transferred hands, and the review above is my opinion only and not subjected to outside influences.
May 25, 2012
Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..
Sophie not only got her job back at the Underworld Detection Agency, but a promotion to head of the fallen angel division. So life is looking up, at least until her clients start disappearing that is. Sophie instantly suspects that there is some nefarious plot going on despite everyone else having doubts. Regardless, she is determined to get to the bottom of things, and lucky for her she has an oh so yummy guardian to help protect her while she sticks her nose into trouble. Things start heating up between the two much to Alex's dismay, but his absentee behavior has just about met Sophie's breaking point. Relationship woes aside, Sophie may have bitten off more than she can chew in her investigation as a powerful force seems determined to annihilate anything and everything demonic, and Sophie may have very well placed herself right in the cross hairs.
A love triangle forms in Under Suspicion, and I'm not really happy about it. It isn't that I have a problem with love triangles, in fact ones where either choice is equally appealing can make for a great read. However, in this case, the two of the men cannot be described as anything near equal in terms of deserving Sophie. Granted I did get my wish that some sparks would start between Will and Sophie, but I had intended for Alex to be then completely pushed out of the picture. Unfortunately, that just didn't happen and it really frustrated me. I just don't understand what Sophie sees in Alex. All he does is string her along, and it just isn't right. On the other hand, Will has been nothing but supportive of her and while he does chuckle at her antics, he never once patronized her unlike Alex does. Hopefully she will wise up quickly, but I have a bad feeling that none of this will end well, and poor Will will probably end up being hurt the most.
Sophie's rash and crazy behavior continues in Under Suspicion, making for another hilarious read. However, I've noticed that her friends (Will being mostly the exception) are becoming more and more patronizing and rather condescending as time goes on. It just infuriates me how they treat her considering just how much she has been through lately. Yes, her methods may be a little unorthodox and almost insane at times, but she gets the job done. She doesn't let anyone or anything hold her back from doing the right thing, nor does she ignore any problem just because it would be easier. No one else can say the same, all they see is a quirky and ditzy red-head, but she is so much more than that.
Once again, there is a slight disconnect between the look of the cover and the actual content of the book. Even so, this one is definitely a step in the right direction compared to the last one. As far as the story itself, despite my frustrations with some of the characters behavior, I'm still really enjoying this series. Sophie is just so very different from the hard case heroines typical in the urban fantasy genre, and it definitely makes for an enjoyable read. In fact for anyone who is a little jaded with the similarities in the genre, The Underworld Detection Agency series may just be the breath of fresh air they need. As for me, well I can't wait to see what happens next!
Sophie not only got her job back at the Underworld Detection Agency, but a promotion to head of the fallen angel division. So life is looking up, at least until her clients start disappearing that is. Sophie instantly suspects that there is some nefarious plot going on despite everyone else having doubts. Regardless, she is determined to get to the bottom of things, and lucky for her she has an oh so yummy guardian to help protect her while she sticks her nose into trouble. Things start heating up between the two much to Alex's dismay, but his absentee behavior has just about met Sophie's breaking point. Relationship woes aside, Sophie may have bitten off more than she can chew in her investigation as a powerful force seems determined to annihilate anything and everything demonic, and Sophie may have very well placed herself right in the cross hairs.
A love triangle forms in Under Suspicion, and I'm not really happy about it. It isn't that I have a problem with love triangles, in fact ones where either choice is equally appealing can make for a great read. However, in this case, the two of the men cannot be described as anything near equal in terms of deserving Sophie. Granted I did get my wish that some sparks would start between Will and Sophie, but I had intended for Alex to be then completely pushed out of the picture. Unfortunately, that just didn't happen and it really frustrated me. I just don't understand what Sophie sees in Alex. All he does is string her along, and it just isn't right. On the other hand, Will has been nothing but supportive of her and while he does chuckle at her antics, he never once patronized her unlike Alex does. Hopefully she will wise up quickly, but I have a bad feeling that none of this will end well, and poor Will will probably end up being hurt the most.
Sophie's rash and crazy behavior continues in Under Suspicion, making for another hilarious read. However, I've noticed that her friends (Will being mostly the exception) are becoming more and more patronizing and rather condescending as time goes on. It just infuriates me how they treat her considering just how much she has been through lately. Yes, her methods may be a little unorthodox and almost insane at times, but she gets the job done. She doesn't let anyone or anything hold her back from doing the right thing, nor does she ignore any problem just because it would be easier. No one else can say the same, all they see is a quirky and ditzy red-head, but she is so much more than that.
Once again, there is a slight disconnect between the look of the cover and the actual content of the book. Even so, this one is definitely a step in the right direction compared to the last one. As far as the story itself, despite my frustrations with some of the characters behavior, I'm still really enjoying this series. Sophie is just so very different from the hard case heroines typical in the urban fantasy genre, and it definitely makes for an enjoyable read. In fact for anyone who is a little jaded with the similarities in the genre, The Underworld Detection Agency series may just be the breath of fresh air they need. As for me, well I can't wait to see what happens next!
July 6, 2013
This Review was first published on my blog Lecture toute une Aventure
My opinion:
I liked this book but something is missing in my opinion. The writing style is better than in the precedent book, the rhythm of action is just what it should be but there is a mix of things that don’t add up to me.
So in this book we still have several kind of paranormal creatures, demon but mostly we have vampires, witches, and a banshee and a centaur as well as a werewolf., other are cited but those are the one we meet several of them, see them in action or that have a key role in this investigation (victims are important after all^^)
What I liked less is the behaviour of Sophie who goes from a guy to the other one, oki she isn’t with Alex anymore but she is not completely over him either so the triangle with Will doesn’t really make sense in my opinion. Suddenly she got feeling she didn’t have? Not likely. It’s not how she was described in the precedent books so such a big change of personality annoys me.
Now speaking about the investigation, it’s well done even if I did guess who the culprit was, it takes you along and you enjoy how determined Sophie is. What was strange is the reaction of Dixon, he is no looking into it , he isn’t interested , worse he take her files away and she doesn’t trust him , though she keep loosing her mind when she meets him. I could see it as “keep your friend near and your enemies nearer” ,yes she has a job but he can keep tabs on her that way. Like Sophie I think he is onto something strange even if we still don’t know a lot of thing about that. We do have some info about acquaintances of him who are demon hunter and more especially hunters of werewolves. Not really sure it’s something that come with his position but that’s not the main topic of this book, just hint for later in the series.
What seemed strange to me is the lack of interest of the others characters.. Nina is all in love, Alex is busy somewhere else, Vlad doesn’t care until Vamps are in danger. Only Sophie knows something isn’t right….but at the same time no one believe her and everyone avoid her… so either they believe or not but they can’t do both.In last book, several” clients” asked for her and were sad when she was sacked now they would be happy if se was… what has changed….
Sometimes I get the impression Hannah Jayne wants to do too much, start an idea and jump to another without concluding the first one…..it’s the first time I got such a strong impression with this series and I’m a little afraid to see where it will go. Add to that the fact it ends with a cliffhanger and you see why I just liked this book and nothing more. Fortunately I do have book 4 already so I will know shortly if it improve or if I lost interest in this series for a moment.
Not a bad book if you love urban fantasy and suspense, investigation but this book doesn’t shine like others still I think it’s putting important step and tips for the main plot so if you are a fan of this series it’s a must have.
Score: 3/5
My opinion:
I liked this book but something is missing in my opinion. The writing style is better than in the precedent book, the rhythm of action is just what it should be but there is a mix of things that don’t add up to me.
So in this book we still have several kind of paranormal creatures, demon but mostly we have vampires, witches, and a banshee and a centaur as well as a werewolf., other are cited but those are the one we meet several of them, see them in action or that have a key role in this investigation (victims are important after all^^)
What I liked less is the behaviour of Sophie who goes from a guy to the other one, oki she isn’t with Alex anymore but she is not completely over him either so the triangle with Will doesn’t really make sense in my opinion. Suddenly she got feeling she didn’t have? Not likely. It’s not how she was described in the precedent books so such a big change of personality annoys me.
Now speaking about the investigation, it’s well done even if I did guess who the culprit was, it takes you along and you enjoy how determined Sophie is. What was strange is the reaction of Dixon, he is no looking into it , he isn’t interested , worse he take her files away and she doesn’t trust him , though she keep loosing her mind when she meets him. I could see it as “keep your friend near and your enemies nearer” ,yes she has a job but he can keep tabs on her that way. Like Sophie I think he is onto something strange even if we still don’t know a lot of thing about that. We do have some info about acquaintances of him who are demon hunter and more especially hunters of werewolves. Not really sure it’s something that come with his position but that’s not the main topic of this book, just hint for later in the series.
What seemed strange to me is the lack of interest of the others characters.. Nina is all in love, Alex is busy somewhere else, Vlad doesn’t care until Vamps are in danger. Only Sophie knows something isn’t right….but at the same time no one believe her and everyone avoid her… so either they believe or not but they can’t do both.In last book, several” clients” asked for her and were sad when she was sacked now they would be happy if se was… what has changed….
Sometimes I get the impression Hannah Jayne wants to do too much, start an idea and jump to another without concluding the first one…..it’s the first time I got such a strong impression with this series and I’m a little afraid to see where it will go. Add to that the fact it ends with a cliffhanger and you see why I just liked this book and nothing more. Fortunately I do have book 4 already so I will know shortly if it improve or if I lost interest in this series for a moment.
Not a bad book if you love urban fantasy and suspense, investigation but this book doesn’t shine like others still I think it’s putting important step and tips for the main plot so if you are a fan of this series it’s a must have.
Score: 3/5
May 20, 2012
Love this series.
See more at http://ebookobsessed.com.
Sophie Lawson is the only human working at the Underworld Detection Agency. The Underworld Detection Agency monitors, regulates and assists demons in the San Francisco area, sort of like the Social Security Office for demons. Sophie’s mother and grandmother were Seers, so Sophie is the only human or “breather” on staff since she is immune to magics and glamours.
In this chapter of the Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles, Sophie has noticed that several of her clients have not arrived for their monthly appointments, including hot-headed dragon Mrs. Henderson. Since Mr. Dixon, new vampire head of UDA, doesn’t share Sophie’s concerns, she takes it upon herself to check on Mrs. Henderson only to find her home trashed and dragon’s blood smeared everywhere. When even Sophie’s on again/off again love, fallen angel and FBI agent, Alex Grace doesn’t believe her, Sophie decides to tackle what she believes is a supernatural killer on her own.
With the help of her best friend, roommate and vampire, Nina LaShay, Nina’s brooding nephew Vlad and Sophie’s sexy Guardian, Will Sherman, Sophie tries to locate the killer; if only she could get everyone focused on the problem at hand.
Currently, Nina is falling in love with Harley Cavanaugh, author of the new book Vampires, Werewolves and Other Things that Don’t Exist, and Sophie can’t convince her that she can’t get to happily ever after with a man who doesn’t believe she even exists.
Vlad is still busy fighting for the Vampire Empowerment Movement (VERM) so that all vampires are in charge and are free to dress like Count Chocula; and breaking VERM rules by dating a breather himself.
And with things off again with Alex and his being on a stakeout across the country, things are starting to heat up between Guardian Will and Sophie in his absence. (“Guardian—and not in that “until your eighteen” sort of way, but in an “until the balance of power has been restored between the good and the fallen, I will protect you” kind of way).
While Sophie stumbles through another investigation in her I Love Lucy way, you will again be laughing and chuckling at the snarky comments and zippy one-liners. Once again, Hannah creates a world and characters that are so charming and delightful.
This story was fun as well as entertaining and just thoroughly enjoyable. I continue to look forward to where she will take us next. I am also looking forward to seeing how this will play out with the Sophie/Will/Alex triangle. Sophie has been “ready to lay down my soul” in love with Alex from the beginning, and although he is noticeably attracted to her, he is standoffish in his “I’m trying to get back to heaven” way. Will he change his mind now that the competition for Sophie’s affection has heated up? Oooo, I can’t wait to see.
See more at http://ebookobsessed.com.
Sophie Lawson is the only human working at the Underworld Detection Agency. The Underworld Detection Agency monitors, regulates and assists demons in the San Francisco area, sort of like the Social Security Office for demons. Sophie’s mother and grandmother were Seers, so Sophie is the only human or “breather” on staff since she is immune to magics and glamours.
In this chapter of the Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles, Sophie has noticed that several of her clients have not arrived for their monthly appointments, including hot-headed dragon Mrs. Henderson. Since Mr. Dixon, new vampire head of UDA, doesn’t share Sophie’s concerns, she takes it upon herself to check on Mrs. Henderson only to find her home trashed and dragon’s blood smeared everywhere. When even Sophie’s on again/off again love, fallen angel and FBI agent, Alex Grace doesn’t believe her, Sophie decides to tackle what she believes is a supernatural killer on her own.
With the help of her best friend, roommate and vampire, Nina LaShay, Nina’s brooding nephew Vlad and Sophie’s sexy Guardian, Will Sherman, Sophie tries to locate the killer; if only she could get everyone focused on the problem at hand.
Currently, Nina is falling in love with Harley Cavanaugh, author of the new book Vampires, Werewolves and Other Things that Don’t Exist, and Sophie can’t convince her that she can’t get to happily ever after with a man who doesn’t believe she even exists.
Vlad is still busy fighting for the Vampire Empowerment Movement (VERM) so that all vampires are in charge and are free to dress like Count Chocula; and breaking VERM rules by dating a breather himself.
And with things off again with Alex and his being on a stakeout across the country, things are starting to heat up between Guardian Will and Sophie in his absence. (“Guardian—and not in that “until your eighteen” sort of way, but in an “until the balance of power has been restored between the good and the fallen, I will protect you” kind of way).
While Sophie stumbles through another investigation in her I Love Lucy way, you will again be laughing and chuckling at the snarky comments and zippy one-liners. Once again, Hannah creates a world and characters that are so charming and delightful.
This story was fun as well as entertaining and just thoroughly enjoyable. I continue to look forward to where she will take us next. I am also looking forward to seeing how this will play out with the Sophie/Will/Alex triangle. Sophie has been “ready to lay down my soul” in love with Alex from the beginning, and although he is noticeably attracted to her, he is standoffish in his “I’m trying to get back to heaven” way. Will he change his mind now that the competition for Sophie’s affection has heated up? Oooo, I can’t wait to see.
February 5, 2014
Reviews of Books 1 & 2:
Under Wraps: http://saphsbookblog.blogspot.com/201...
Under Attack: http://saphsbookblog.blogspot.com/201...
Oh Sophie....you silly, silly breather, you!
The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles is a series and as such, I would highly suggest you start by reading Book 1 and Book 2 before picking up Under Suspicion. This review will most likely contain Book 1 & 2 spoilers. Turn back now....it's not too late.....
I'm going to assume that because you have continued to read this that you have either already read the first two books or you don't care about spoilers.
Sophie is the only mundane being that is employed by the Underworld Detection Agency (UDA), located below the police station (unbeknown to them). She has been through hell and back but came out victorious thus far. Unfortunately, some of her regular clients can't say that. Demons that she's responsible for in her line of work are suddenly missing appointments without phone calls or rescheduling. After her most consistent dragon client misses her weekly child support/alimony/take her cheating ex-husband to the cleaners appointment, Sophie knows something's up. The new head of the UDA, the vampire Dixon, placates Sophie but she has a feeling he isn't taking the disappearances seriously. Sophie decides to check on the dragon family and is completely disgusted and goes into shock at what she finds.
As more demons disappear or get attacked, Sophie herself also becomes a target. She's jumped by someone that tries to stake her - a human - in the heart. Fortunately, Will, her Guardian comes to her rescue. And things just snowball from there.
No one in the UDA, or any of Sophie's friends, lovers, or enemies takes the threat to the Underworld creatures seriously - despite the overwhelming evidence that something is really happening. This, or course, forces Sophie to take matters into her own hands. She, along with her Guardian, Will, must do what they can (well, in this case, Will just needs to make sure Sophie doesn't wind up dead) to figure out what the heck is happening. The resulting investigation and identity of the problem causer(s) will come as a surprise....maybe. The author does a good job of trying to throw the reader off of the right track. I had my suspicions but I wasn't completely let down by thinking I knew who the culprit(s) was.
Our favorite, lovable vampire fashionista, Nina (or Neens), falls head over heels for an author that comes into town. He writes novels debunking everything that goes bump in the night. Neens dating a human skeptic is all sorts of ironic and pretty funny at times. Her lack of Sophie support, however, was a huge downer for me.
While this installment wasn't nearly as good as the first 3 books, I still read it for what it was and enjoyed it.
Review Copy Courtesy of My Local Library!
Under Wraps: http://saphsbookblog.blogspot.com/201...
Under Attack: http://saphsbookblog.blogspot.com/201...
Oh Sophie....you silly, silly breather, you!
The Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles is a series and as such, I would highly suggest you start by reading Book 1 and Book 2 before picking up Under Suspicion. This review will most likely contain Book 1 & 2 spoilers. Turn back now....it's not too late.....
I'm going to assume that because you have continued to read this that you have either already read the first two books or you don't care about spoilers.
Sophie is the only mundane being that is employed by the Underworld Detection Agency (UDA), located below the police station (unbeknown to them). She has been through hell and back but came out victorious thus far. Unfortunately, some of her regular clients can't say that. Demons that she's responsible for in her line of work are suddenly missing appointments without phone calls or rescheduling. After her most consistent dragon client misses her weekly child support/alimony/take her cheating ex-husband to the cleaners appointment, Sophie knows something's up. The new head of the UDA, the vampire Dixon, placates Sophie but she has a feeling he isn't taking the disappearances seriously. Sophie decides to check on the dragon family and is completely disgusted and goes into shock at what she finds.
As more demons disappear or get attacked, Sophie herself also becomes a target. She's jumped by someone that tries to stake her - a human - in the heart. Fortunately, Will, her Guardian comes to her rescue. And things just snowball from there.
No one in the UDA, or any of Sophie's friends, lovers, or enemies takes the threat to the Underworld creatures seriously - despite the overwhelming evidence that something is really happening. This, or course, forces Sophie to take matters into her own hands. She, along with her Guardian, Will, must do what they can (well, in this case, Will just needs to make sure Sophie doesn't wind up dead) to figure out what the heck is happening. The resulting investigation and identity of the problem causer(s) will come as a surprise....maybe. The author does a good job of trying to throw the reader off of the right track. I had my suspicions but I wasn't completely let down by thinking I knew who the culprit(s) was.
Our favorite, lovable vampire fashionista, Nina (or Neens), falls head over heels for an author that comes into town. He writes novels debunking everything that goes bump in the night. Neens dating a human skeptic is all sorts of ironic and pretty funny at times. Her lack of Sophie support, however, was a huge downer for me.
While this installment wasn't nearly as good as the first 3 books, I still read it for what it was and enjoyed it.
Review Copy Courtesy of My Local Library!
May 25, 2012
Sophie Lawson has been having a hard time at her job in the Underworld, what with the Vampires taking over, her boss missing, and staff cuts but when her boss does not believe there is a hunt on paranormals Sophie takes care of her own. Being not quite human, and yet not quite paranormal has left her out of many social circles and has lost her Alex her past boyfriend. Alone and yet with her Guardian Will Sophie starts to take on the night and investigate what is going wrong in the Underworld while at the same time dodging bullets and saving her roommates.
Under Suspicion came off as a stronger read than the last UDA novel, I was glad to see Sophie take action and investigate her murdered clients while also take some romance under her belt. With Sophie attracted to both local Will and Alex who spends the novel off working, Sophie finally gets some action, while also coming to grips with the unavailability of Alex. Tired of being passed off at work, Sophie follows leads into the murders of citizens of the Underworld while also being hunted herself. Where the facts start to lead Sophie can turn dangerous to her health around every turn, and some great accompanying characters save or break her day.
Readers will delight in some of the antics of supporting characters in the series and see a few new ones, while the snarky commentary and bunny slippers will keep up from what was in the previous books. I find myself always questioning the covers of this series because while I love the cover art itself, I do not find any connection to Sophie herself through them but in Under Suspicion we learn from Sophie herself that this would be her ideal model of what she wants to look like in: "In my imagination I am Sophie Lawson, Badass Investigator, Paranormal Specialist. I wear black leather like a second skin; I wield a sexy jeweled sword; I have the kind of hair that files in gorgeous wisps over my naked, carved shoulders." (ARC pg 177)So with that in mind I can have compassion for the covers because really would we not many times imagine ourselves as this awesome heroine and look fabulous? when really reality is not as kind to oneself in skintight leather and well, swords are pretty pricey. So while I agree with Sophie, our imagined selves are quite full of badassery all too often. Sophie does follow her leads and take the reins in saving not only her Underworld, but also some of her friends. The ending was complete awesome and now I cannot wait to see what comes in the next installments of the Underworld Detective Agency Series.
Under Suspicion came off as a stronger read than the last UDA novel, I was glad to see Sophie take action and investigate her murdered clients while also take some romance under her belt. With Sophie attracted to both local Will and Alex who spends the novel off working, Sophie finally gets some action, while also coming to grips with the unavailability of Alex. Tired of being passed off at work, Sophie follows leads into the murders of citizens of the Underworld while also being hunted herself. Where the facts start to lead Sophie can turn dangerous to her health around every turn, and some great accompanying characters save or break her day.
Readers will delight in some of the antics of supporting characters in the series and see a few new ones, while the snarky commentary and bunny slippers will keep up from what was in the previous books. I find myself always questioning the covers of this series because while I love the cover art itself, I do not find any connection to Sophie herself through them but in Under Suspicion we learn from Sophie herself that this would be her ideal model of what she wants to look like in: "In my imagination I am Sophie Lawson, Badass Investigator, Paranormal Specialist. I wear black leather like a second skin; I wield a sexy jeweled sword; I have the kind of hair that files in gorgeous wisps over my naked, carved shoulders." (ARC pg 177)So with that in mind I can have compassion for the covers because really would we not many times imagine ourselves as this awesome heroine and look fabulous? when really reality is not as kind to oneself in skintight leather and well, swords are pretty pricey. So while I agree with Sophie, our imagined selves are quite full of badassery all too often. Sophie does follow her leads and take the reins in saving not only her Underworld, but also some of her friends. The ending was complete awesome and now I cannot wait to see what comes in the next installments of the Underworld Detective Agency Series.
September 16, 2013
As seen on Rabidreads.ca:
Under Suspicion details a rather inauspicious week or two in the life of Sophie Marceau...ah, correction...Sophie Lawson, flubbing Underworld crime fighter. Note: Underworld refers to a law firm of sorts, which, true, is well underground, about twenty floors, but specializes usually in the distribution of alimony between dragon mates, the licensing of wizards to practice magic, insurance for vampires (so long as they don't bite any humans that do not sign a written agreement agreeing to be bitten), and various Wendigo zoning permits. Additional Note: Underworld is not the leather clad gladiatorial fights between werewolves and vampires you see at the movies.
This, book three, comes on strong after its overdramatic precursor. And it's an odd kind of strong because what went down was in many ways more light. Sophie's vampiric roommate, Nina, decides she has a novel in her, specifically a vampiric romance. This running joke, like any, could have went further, but as is it is humorous each time it is invoked. Sophie's Guardian, Will, takes on a lot of screen time and manages to steal my vote for which supernatural man Sophie should end up with. Note: not so difficult since his only real competition is a lukewarm detective; Steve, the troll, unfortunately finally proves himself to be a milquetoast.
That ending will leave you hanging! After a plot that -ALL LOVE- went nowhere, one would have expected a tad more resolution like since so much of the plot centers around bookstores, we could have had a final booksigning, but perhaps this severe cliffhanger points favorably to the continuation of the previously mentioned subplots in the next book. I would sure like to see Vlad, Nina's vampiric relative, a hundreds year old vampire in the body of a sixteen year old, be fawned over more by Kale, the witchy apprentice. In short, whereas the previous book made me question my investment in the series (signs of wear and tear were showing as the plot attempted to gear up to apocalpytic stakes, about 50 MPH), here the pace is held at a solid 5 MPH so Sophie can sufficiently gorge herself on pinwheels and pineapple buns.
Under Suspicion details a rather inauspicious week or two in the life of Sophie Marceau...ah, correction...Sophie Lawson, flubbing Underworld crime fighter. Note: Underworld refers to a law firm of sorts, which, true, is well underground, about twenty floors, but specializes usually in the distribution of alimony between dragon mates, the licensing of wizards to practice magic, insurance for vampires (so long as they don't bite any humans that do not sign a written agreement agreeing to be bitten), and various Wendigo zoning permits. Additional Note: Underworld is not the leather clad gladiatorial fights between werewolves and vampires you see at the movies.
This, book three, comes on strong after its overdramatic precursor. And it's an odd kind of strong because what went down was in many ways more light. Sophie's vampiric roommate, Nina, decides she has a novel in her, specifically a vampiric romance. This running joke, like any, could have went further, but as is it is humorous each time it is invoked. Sophie's Guardian, Will, takes on a lot of screen time and manages to steal my vote for which supernatural man Sophie should end up with. Note: not so difficult since his only real competition is a lukewarm detective; Steve, the troll, unfortunately finally proves himself to be a milquetoast.
That ending will leave you hanging! After a plot that -ALL LOVE- went nowhere, one would have expected a tad more resolution like since so much of the plot centers around bookstores, we could have had a final booksigning, but perhaps this severe cliffhanger points favorably to the continuation of the previously mentioned subplots in the next book. I would sure like to see Vlad, Nina's vampiric relative, a hundreds year old vampire in the body of a sixteen year old, be fawned over more by Kale, the witchy apprentice. In short, whereas the previous book made me question my investment in the series (signs of wear and tear were showing as the plot attempted to gear up to apocalpytic stakes, about 50 MPH), here the pace is held at a solid 5 MPH so Sophie can sufficiently gorge herself on pinwheels and pineapple buns.
May 24, 2012
While the author did keep me interested enough to read through the whole book and I'm still hoping that the next book will be worth the read, I was really irritated with this one. Sophie walks a fine line between adorably awkward and an irritating waste of space. The first two books dealt with it well and you loved that the character wasn't just another female kick ass urban fantasy hero. That was washed away in this one as she deluded herself and therefore us about her feelings, stuffed her face with junk and let her best friend treat her like a neglected pet dog. The second half of chapter 14 should never have been allowed in the book. Basically, in about 4 pages she established that all of the characters close friends think she has the mental capacity of a hysterical cabbage. Shouldn't she have established some credibility from the first two novels? The 'Chicken Little/sky is falling' mentality of the first three quarters of the book got old real fast.
My take away impression of the book, is that she really wanted to write the fourth book. Several events happen in this one that were dealt with in a certain amount of detail and then dropped like a rock and never mentioned again. Unfortunately, these were the parts that made me continue the book and be interested in what happened next. Guess that will have to wait until the next release :)
As much as I had to rant a little about what bothered me in this book, I have to give credit to the writer. To feel as strongly as I do about what bothered me but still have me care what happens next should be an indication of how well she writes these people. The first two books made me very happy. Hopefully, the next one will too.
p.s. I find the discrepancy between the character in the book and the covers to be hilarious. Part of the whole point of the book is that she ISN'T like the picture portrayed on the cover. Advertising at it's best, I suppose :)
My take away impression of the book, is that she really wanted to write the fourth book. Several events happen in this one that were dealt with in a certain amount of detail and then dropped like a rock and never mentioned again. Unfortunately, these were the parts that made me continue the book and be interested in what happened next. Guess that will have to wait until the next release :)
As much as I had to rant a little about what bothered me in this book, I have to give credit to the writer. To feel as strongly as I do about what bothered me but still have me care what happens next should be an indication of how well she writes these people. The first two books made me very happy. Hopefully, the next one will too.
p.s. I find the discrepancy between the character in the book and the covers to be hilarious. Part of the whole point of the book is that she ISN'T like the picture portrayed on the cover. Advertising at it's best, I suppose :)
April 7, 2013
Sophie Lawson has gotten a promotion at the Underworld Detection Agency. She’s the new Head of the Fallen Angel Division. Since that job doesn’t really take up a lot of her time she’s also taking care of other clients. Until some of her clients start turning up dead and many of her still alive clients decide it would be wiser and safer to see someone else. Now, Sophie has even more time to investigate why demons are being attacked or outright murdered.
During all of this her vampire roommate Nina has fallen in love with an author. An author who researches and writes about how vampires and other paranormal creatures aren’t real. How ironic that he’s dating a vampire and he’s clueless. Alex Grace, the Fallen Angel and police detective, has taken off to parts unknown for some stake out and only her Guardian Will is sticking close to her while Sophie goes from one close call to another.
Well-written with a bit of a faster plot than the last two books, I’m still not feeling the love of the characters that I would like this far into a series. After everything that has happened to Sophie the last two books you would think her friends and colleagues would show a little less disbelief when she insists something bad is happening to demons. Instead they pooh pooh her and tell her the incidents are just coincidence. Then there’s Sophie herself. She still cries too much and now she’s always talking about peeing her pants. Again, after everything that has happened to her, why hasn’t she grown a set of balls or something? Still not liking Alex, so I’m very glad he’s not in this book much. The one character I really like is Will. I hope we continue to see a lot of him. The ending was a bit of a shocker. I’m actually looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Kensington for providing me with a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
During all of this her vampire roommate Nina has fallen in love with an author. An author who researches and writes about how vampires and other paranormal creatures aren’t real. How ironic that he’s dating a vampire and he’s clueless. Alex Grace, the Fallen Angel and police detective, has taken off to parts unknown for some stake out and only her Guardian Will is sticking close to her while Sophie goes from one close call to another.
Well-written with a bit of a faster plot than the last two books, I’m still not feeling the love of the characters that I would like this far into a series. After everything that has happened to Sophie the last two books you would think her friends and colleagues would show a little less disbelief when she insists something bad is happening to demons. Instead they pooh pooh her and tell her the incidents are just coincidence. Then there’s Sophie herself. She still cries too much and now she’s always talking about peeing her pants. Again, after everything that has happened to her, why hasn’t she grown a set of balls or something? Still not liking Alex, so I’m very glad he’s not in this book much. The one character I really like is Will. I hope we continue to see a lot of him. The ending was a bit of a shocker. I’m actually looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Kensington for providing me with a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
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