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Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty-Hunter #3
Blood and Magick
Taking out hellish creatures—not a problem. Armed with blessed silver hollow-points and the ability to manipulate magick, he’s ready for anything—except betrayal he never saw coming…
Deacon Chalk knows the biggest danger in fighting monsters is becoming one. Just another day at the office for your friendly neighborhood occult bounty hunter. If keeping three helpless were-dog children safe means battling a malevolent trio of witches by any means necessary, so be it. If that means partnering with a ruthless government agent to stay one step ahead of the allies and friends he must now suspect, he’s not going to cry about it. The only way Deacon can save humans and shape-shifters alike is to embrace a power beyond his imagining, putting his team at stake—and his soul on the line…
Deacon Chalk knows the biggest danger in fighting monsters is becoming one. Just another day at the office for your friendly neighborhood occult bounty hunter. If keeping three helpless were-dog children safe means battling a malevolent trio of witches by any means necessary, so be it. If that means partnering with a ruthless government agent to stay one step ahead of the allies and friends he must now suspect, he’s not going to cry about it. The only way Deacon can save humans and shape-shifters alike is to embrace a power beyond his imagining, putting his team at stake—and his soul on the line…
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
13 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
James R. Tuck
51 books236 followersI am the author of the Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty Hunter series. Book one, BLOOD AND BULLETS, will be out from Kensington Publishing February 7, 2012.
I write DARK URBAN FANTASY. It is gritty, it is violent, it is bloody, it is DARK. The monsters are monstrous and they do Very Bad Things. The good guys are Big Damn Heroes.
I write the ultimate thrill ride in the form of a book, just for you. I want you turning those pages as fast as you can while precariously balanced on the edge of your seat.
I write DARK URBAN FANTASY. It is gritty, it is violent, it is bloody, it is DARK. The monsters are monstrous and they do Very Bad Things. The good guys are Big Damn Heroes.
I write the ultimate thrill ride in the form of a book, just for you. I want you turning those pages as fast as you can while precariously balanced on the edge of your seat.
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April 4, 2013
Deacon Chalk can’t even enjoy a quiet dinner out with his friends and loved ones without witches swooping in and ruining the meal.
Witches are a pretty new one to face, especially witches as powerful of these, transforming demon witches, witches that raise the dead and witches that can kill with a word. And they have one target in mind – the Trinity, Sophia’s baby triplets. If they get them, they may have power enough to end the world.
And Deacon Chalk faces conflict in his own inner circle as people close to him try to find their own solutions.
There are elements this book that continue the improvement of the writing style we saw in the second book. It’s cleaner, the descriptions less inclined to be too overwrought and there’s less of the utter melodrama – the writing style is definitely improving.
We’re also having a sense of meta-plot. Not just repeating characters and growing power on Deacon Chalk’s part, but the new connection with the government, Sophia’s 3 mystical children are definitely going to lead to more in the future.
We have a lot of the women growing as well, Sophia is ferocious in defence of her children – yes, an old trope. But we also have Tiff growing into her own, becoming a capable and dangerous hunter in her own right and seeking her own place and own career in monster hunting in her own right. While, naturally, very much under Deacon Chalk’s shadow still – and certainly never in a position to challenge him (because no-one is ever allowed to do that ever – Kat tried in this book and is suitably punished for daring to question Deacon Chalk).
We continue to have a diverse range of antagonists and powers suggesting the world is extremely broad which is always something I favour. The story itself isn’t complicated or difficult – being a rather linear “protect the prize, kill the enemies” with no great mystery or twists. The enemies are known pretty much from the beginning, what is needed to be cone is known from the beginning. What they’re after is pretty much known from the beginning. It’s another action-film type book, it’s there for fighting and action and adventure and taking hits and keeping moving and overcoming all the odds.
All pretty good so far. And it was a book I couldn’t put down until I’d lost rather a lot of sleep – but not because I was enjoying it, but because I was angry at it – too angry to put it down in case it somehow managed to either redeem itself or damn itself thoroughly. And it damned itself.
What broke me? Deacon Chalk is an arsehole. He’s a self-righteous, judgmental arsehole. He’s right, everyone else is wrong. It’s been growing through the books but this one was the straw that snapped the camel in two.
When people argue with him he intimidates them. He beats his fists against tables, walls, cars. Even with people he’s supposed to love – Tiff presumes to argue with him and he’s slamming his huge fist into car roofs and walls and whatever. He threatens them – in the last book he’s threatened Charlotte, he threatens Larson, he’s threatened nearly everyone around him. He’s a huge man, we’re constantly told this, a leather clad massive man, a thug as he calls himself. He’s huge, he’s intimidating, he’s strong, he’s dangerous – and he uses that to force people to obey him. He’s a bully. He’s a violent, angry bully. Are we supposed to be impressed by what a big, hard man he is that he loses his temper and has tantrums unless everyone does everything his way without question?
The one shred where him insisting everything go his way would make a fragment of sense if he actually had ANY kind of plans or even relevant experience of, well, any of the encounters we’ve seen in the book. But he doesn’t – his plan is constantly “show up and kill stuff”. That’s the fullest extent of his planning – he hopes he’ll think of something and, ta-da, by authorial fiat he comes up with something on the spur of the moment, usually after he’s had some dramatic “ugh, my rib has been cracked for the 11 thousandth time, oh it hurts but I’m so manly I’m going to keep going!” moment. They even make a joke of the fact he never ever has a plan – but everyone has to obey him and follow orders?
The only reason this character isn’t a shining beacon if arseholery is because author will makes him right all the time. He is the ultimate Gary Stu, he is never wrong, he is never mistaken, his lack of plans never go wrong because he always comes up with just the right solution on the fly
He decides all magic is evil. Does he know all magic is evil? Have we any indication that he can be sure about this? It doesn’t matter – Deacon Chalk says it so he must be so.
Read More
Witches are a pretty new one to face, especially witches as powerful of these, transforming demon witches, witches that raise the dead and witches that can kill with a word. And they have one target in mind – the Trinity, Sophia’s baby triplets. If they get them, they may have power enough to end the world.
And Deacon Chalk faces conflict in his own inner circle as people close to him try to find their own solutions.
There are elements this book that continue the improvement of the writing style we saw in the second book. It’s cleaner, the descriptions less inclined to be too overwrought and there’s less of the utter melodrama – the writing style is definitely improving.
We’re also having a sense of meta-plot. Not just repeating characters and growing power on Deacon Chalk’s part, but the new connection with the government, Sophia’s 3 mystical children are definitely going to lead to more in the future.
We have a lot of the women growing as well, Sophia is ferocious in defence of her children – yes, an old trope. But we also have Tiff growing into her own, becoming a capable and dangerous hunter in her own right and seeking her own place and own career in monster hunting in her own right. While, naturally, very much under Deacon Chalk’s shadow still – and certainly never in a position to challenge him (because no-one is ever allowed to do that ever – Kat tried in this book and is suitably punished for daring to question Deacon Chalk).
We continue to have a diverse range of antagonists and powers suggesting the world is extremely broad which is always something I favour. The story itself isn’t complicated or difficult – being a rather linear “protect the prize, kill the enemies” with no great mystery or twists. The enemies are known pretty much from the beginning, what is needed to be cone is known from the beginning. What they’re after is pretty much known from the beginning. It’s another action-film type book, it’s there for fighting and action and adventure and taking hits and keeping moving and overcoming all the odds.
All pretty good so far. And it was a book I couldn’t put down until I’d lost rather a lot of sleep – but not because I was enjoying it, but because I was angry at it – too angry to put it down in case it somehow managed to either redeem itself or damn itself thoroughly. And it damned itself.
What broke me? Deacon Chalk is an arsehole. He’s a self-righteous, judgmental arsehole. He’s right, everyone else is wrong. It’s been growing through the books but this one was the straw that snapped the camel in two.
When people argue with him he intimidates them. He beats his fists against tables, walls, cars. Even with people he’s supposed to love – Tiff presumes to argue with him and he’s slamming his huge fist into car roofs and walls and whatever. He threatens them – in the last book he’s threatened Charlotte, he threatens Larson, he’s threatened nearly everyone around him. He’s a huge man, we’re constantly told this, a leather clad massive man, a thug as he calls himself. He’s huge, he’s intimidating, he’s strong, he’s dangerous – and he uses that to force people to obey him. He’s a bully. He’s a violent, angry bully. Are we supposed to be impressed by what a big, hard man he is that he loses his temper and has tantrums unless everyone does everything his way without question?
The one shred where him insisting everything go his way would make a fragment of sense if he actually had ANY kind of plans or even relevant experience of, well, any of the encounters we’ve seen in the book. But he doesn’t – his plan is constantly “show up and kill stuff”. That’s the fullest extent of his planning – he hopes he’ll think of something and, ta-da, by authorial fiat he comes up with something on the spur of the moment, usually after he’s had some dramatic “ugh, my rib has been cracked for the 11 thousandth time, oh it hurts but I’m so manly I’m going to keep going!” moment. They even make a joke of the fact he never ever has a plan – but everyone has to obey him and follow orders?
The only reason this character isn’t a shining beacon if arseholery is because author will makes him right all the time. He is the ultimate Gary Stu, he is never wrong, he is never mistaken, his lack of plans never go wrong because he always comes up with just the right solution on the fly
He decides all magic is evil. Does he know all magic is evil? Have we any indication that he can be sure about this? It doesn’t matter – Deacon Chalk says it so he must be so.
Read More
January 31, 2013
Decon Chalk has lost his family to monsters and magic. Now he and a mismatched group of believers are fighting for their lives and the lives of everyone around them. Hidden enemies, demons, witches, vampires, all wait in the dark for their chance to let malevolent and wicked powers rule.
This time Decon Chalk is teamed up with a government agency. Unsure who he can call friend, he relies on his core team to watch his back. Three witches have come to take the power of children, children Decon loves and protects. He will stop at nothing to keep the kids from harm and stop the witches from opening the world up to more evil.
This is my first book in the Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty Hunter series. I was thrilled with this new and fresh series where evil is still evil and even trying to use it for good corrupts your intentions in the end. The plot is dark, action packed and filled with violence that you would expect dealing with the beings from hell. Sacrifices and agonizing decisions are made that will ultimately destroy strong friendships. Lots of fighting, a ultimate evil, and a little sex make Blood and Magick a wonderful dark action adventure.
This ARC copy of Blood and Magick was given to me by Kensington Publishing Corp. in exchange for a honest review. Publish Date March 4, 2013.
This time Decon Chalk is teamed up with a government agency. Unsure who he can call friend, he relies on his core team to watch his back. Three witches have come to take the power of children, children Decon loves and protects. He will stop at nothing to keep the kids from harm and stop the witches from opening the world up to more evil.
This is my first book in the Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty Hunter series. I was thrilled with this new and fresh series where evil is still evil and even trying to use it for good corrupts your intentions in the end. The plot is dark, action packed and filled with violence that you would expect dealing with the beings from hell. Sacrifices and agonizing decisions are made that will ultimately destroy strong friendships. Lots of fighting, a ultimate evil, and a little sex make Blood and Magick a wonderful dark action adventure.
This ARC copy of Blood and Magick was given to me by Kensington Publishing Corp. in exchange for a honest review. Publish Date March 4, 2013.
July 14, 2018
After enjoying the hell out of the first two books in this trilogy, I was really looking forward to reading the last book in the Deacon Chalk trilogy. BUT, I kept putting it off... for several years! LOL.
Anyway, this month I decided it was time to finally find out how his story ends.
Deacon fights monsters all the time and, since his encounter with an angel after his family was killed years ago, isn't fully human himself.
Monsters are everywhere, so the night he's out having dinner with his girl and some close friends and a trio of witches attack the restaurant, he's not surprised.
These crazy witches want the blood of three were-dog kids Deacon happens to know, so he's determined to get to the bottom of what's going on before they kill more innocent people. And that means teaming up with a tough agent, stopping these ruthless witches, and in the process putting his own people's lives in danger...
Yikes.
This book was so action-packed!
It's explosive, and doesn't let up. It's like a non-stop action movie that speeds ahead and never slows down.
There are so many awesome scenes in this book, but there's this one particular one that takes place inside a movie theatre that blew me away. There are zombies, vampires, guns, witchcraft, and a magical battle inside a cinema that I couldn't put down. Wow.
I love Deacon's voice. He doesn't take any crap, isn't afraid of anyone and isn't shy about voicing his opinions. He's also tough as nails and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect the ones he cares about. Which leads me to the amazing characters: Father Mulcahy, Tiff, Kat, Ronnie, Boothe, Agent Heck... They're all SO cool.
I'm very excited to have finally reached The End of Deacon's story.
This is a great UF trilogy!
Anyway, this month I decided it was time to finally find out how his story ends.
Deacon fights monsters all the time and, since his encounter with an angel after his family was killed years ago, isn't fully human himself.
Monsters are everywhere, so the night he's out having dinner with his girl and some close friends and a trio of witches attack the restaurant, he's not surprised.
These crazy witches want the blood of three were-dog kids Deacon happens to know, so he's determined to get to the bottom of what's going on before they kill more innocent people. And that means teaming up with a tough agent, stopping these ruthless witches, and in the process putting his own people's lives in danger...
Yikes.
This book was so action-packed!
It's explosive, and doesn't let up. It's like a non-stop action movie that speeds ahead and never slows down.
There are so many awesome scenes in this book, but there's this one particular one that takes place inside a movie theatre that blew me away. There are zombies, vampires, guns, witchcraft, and a magical battle inside a cinema that I couldn't put down. Wow.
I love Deacon's voice. He doesn't take any crap, isn't afraid of anyone and isn't shy about voicing his opinions. He's also tough as nails and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect the ones he cares about. Which leads me to the amazing characters: Father Mulcahy, Tiff, Kat, Ronnie, Boothe, Agent Heck... They're all SO cool.
I'm very excited to have finally reached The End of Deacon's story.
This is a great UF trilogy!
March 22, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson:
*ARC received from NetGalley
I've been called 'a guys' girl' on more than one occasion because of my tastes... I'm a sports junkie, the more things that blow up or people that get killed during my movie choices the better, and I am constantly on the prowl for books that disturb me or are dark enough to make me chuckle evilly and mutter a proud "hell yeah!". Well, James's DEACON CHALK series delivers and then some! :)
I have loved this series from book .5, and am a proud James R. Tuck fangirl. Immediately upon finishing this installment my first impression words were: "Wow James! They just keep getting better. This installment was even darker, grittier, more action packed, violent, snarky, & emotional than the 1st two, and dare I say... yes, very SEXY! :). Everything changed in this book, and SO many doors have been opened for the series. If it's even possible, I am even more excited for the next book than I was for this one."
Blood and Magick picks up right after the climactic events of Blood and Silver, wherein Deacon is enjoying some downtime with his crew. Like usual though, it can't last, and all hell breaks loose. There are some psychotic witches and wizards trying to kill them all, and an entire restaurant and movie theater are blown to kingdom come (and that's just in the first couple chapters!)
During the remainder of this adrenaline fueled joyride, Deacon and the gang must battle all kinds of creatures and tons of personal demons besides. There is more action than you know what to do with, betrayal, mystery, romance, heartbreak, and much, much more.
At one point (as I was cackling evilly and muttering my "hell yeahs") I wondered how much more I could take as a reader. Then I shook my head and thought, Bring It! and I'm sure James will do just that. There are hints of bigger and badder things to come, and even though it's hard to imagine how the series could possibly be any more intense than it already is, I personally believe that James is up for the challenge and I cannot wait to see what's next!
This series is a unique, fascinating and captivating thrill ride. The preternaturals are not sexy, they all want to rip your face off, most can turn your stomach with a glimpse, and based on Deacon's convictions, there is no gray area - magick is bad and bad is evil.
The heroes are damaged but lovable, the setting is believable despite the utter fantasy, there are tons of surprises, and despite the bits of closure we receive as the arc progresses, I'm not entirely sure that ANYONE really wins in the end.
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood and Magick 4 1/2 Skulls and highly recommends this series to readers looking for a dark, gritty, action-packed read with heroes you can't help but love and villains you love to loathe.
NOTE: I do suggest that readers read the eNovellas that accompany the series in the order that they are meant to be read with the full-length novels. While they're not absolutely integral to the comprehension of the series as a whole, they do fill in holes and make the entire experience just that much more enjoyable.
More James, more!! :)
*ARC received from NetGalley
I've been called 'a guys' girl' on more than one occasion because of my tastes... I'm a sports junkie, the more things that blow up or people that get killed during my movie choices the better, and I am constantly on the prowl for books that disturb me or are dark enough to make me chuckle evilly and mutter a proud "hell yeah!". Well, James's DEACON CHALK series delivers and then some! :)
I have loved this series from book .5, and am a proud James R. Tuck fangirl. Immediately upon finishing this installment my first impression words were: "Wow James! They just keep getting better. This installment was even darker, grittier, more action packed, violent, snarky, & emotional than the 1st two, and dare I say... yes, very SEXY! :). Everything changed in this book, and SO many doors have been opened for the series. If it's even possible, I am even more excited for the next book than I was for this one."
Blood and Magick picks up right after the climactic events of Blood and Silver, wherein Deacon is enjoying some downtime with his crew. Like usual though, it can't last, and all hell breaks loose. There are some psychotic witches and wizards trying to kill them all, and an entire restaurant and movie theater are blown to kingdom come (and that's just in the first couple chapters!)
During the remainder of this adrenaline fueled joyride, Deacon and the gang must battle all kinds of creatures and tons of personal demons besides. There is more action than you know what to do with, betrayal, mystery, romance, heartbreak, and much, much more.
At one point (as I was cackling evilly and muttering my "hell yeahs") I wondered how much more I could take as a reader. Then I shook my head and thought, Bring It! and I'm sure James will do just that. There are hints of bigger and badder things to come, and even though it's hard to imagine how the series could possibly be any more intense than it already is, I personally believe that James is up for the challenge and I cannot wait to see what's next!
This series is a unique, fascinating and captivating thrill ride. The preternaturals are not sexy, they all want to rip your face off, most can turn your stomach with a glimpse, and based on Deacon's convictions, there is no gray area - magick is bad and bad is evil.
The heroes are damaged but lovable, the setting is believable despite the utter fantasy, there are tons of surprises, and despite the bits of closure we receive as the arc progresses, I'm not entirely sure that ANYONE really wins in the end.
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood and Magick 4 1/2 Skulls and highly recommends this series to readers looking for a dark, gritty, action-packed read with heroes you can't help but love and villains you love to loathe.
NOTE: I do suggest that readers read the eNovellas that accompany the series in the order that they are meant to be read with the full-length novels. While they're not absolutely integral to the comprehension of the series as a whole, they do fill in holes and make the entire experience just that much more enjoyable.
More James, more!! :)
March 2, 2013
Review originally posed at http://fictionvixen.com/review-blood-...
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my journey into the Deaconverse it’s that anything can happen at anytime and no character is safe. Blood and Magick, the third book in the Deacon Chalk Occult Bounty Hunter series, is a wild, bloody ride from start to finish. There were a couple of times I wanted to put the book down and take a breather. For some reason this installment just seemed more intense, at times emotionally draining. It is most definitely a game changer.
Deacon Chalk lost his family to monsters five years ago. It was a horrific night and he’s tried to bury those memories deep in his mind so he can survive day-to-day. He came out of that a changed man, a strong, hard-core vigilante who fights for those people who can’t fight for themselves. Over the course of the last three books he’s gathered a group of people around him who he considers his family, and has let himself fall in love again. Tiff is the perfect companion for a man who lives his life immersed in violence. She’s soft and understanding when he needs her to be and tough enough to walk beside him and fight her own battles. Most of these characters have been with Deacon since the beginning, they’ve endeared themselves to the readers and become ingrained in this series, but like I said at the beginning, no character is safe. There is loss in Blood and Magick. A sad, profound loss that I think will end up haunting Deacon for some time to come.
When the story opens Deacon, Tiff, Kat and Larson are all dressed up and eating at a fancy restaurant. What starts as a nice night out ends up with a trio of witches crashing through the wall intent on stealing the blood of the were children Deacon has sworn to protect. The three sons born to Sophia in the previous book are the key to a ritual needed to open a rift between worlds and the witches will do anything to acquire them. This is a fight Deacon is willing to take on, but a few of the friends he usually relies on are now suspect and he has an all new ally in the form of a mysterious government agency to contend with.
As always there is a battle between good and evil, Deacon and his allies against the monsters, but there is also an internal struggle between this group of friends. Does doing bad things with good intentions make them right? Will spells and magick corrupt even the best people? Faith and religious belief also play a larger role. Deacon and his friend Father Mulcahy are willing to get their hands bloody in order to protect the kids, but ultimately in the larger battle with these satanic creatures its faith that saves the day. Deacon’s memories of his family are brought to the surface during this conflict and by the conclusion he must make painful decisions. Friendships are tested, past enemies turn into unwilling allies, new characters are introduced and the story arc is moved along at high-speed. There was so much going on that by the last chapter I was kind of shocked at how much had changed in only 310 pages. But I can’t wait to see where James R Tuck takes this series next.
Blood and Magick is a violent, dark, twisted thrill ride. Action packed from the first page to the last. A definite must read for fans of a darker urban fantasy. Final Grade: B+
Favorite Quote:
I turned, put my hands together, and cracked my knuckles. They popped, releasing tension along the bones of my hands. I closed them into fists just as the magick boiled over and the wall of bullet-ridden seats collapsed.
Hells to the yeah.
Time to rock and roll.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my journey into the Deaconverse it’s that anything can happen at anytime and no character is safe. Blood and Magick, the third book in the Deacon Chalk Occult Bounty Hunter series, is a wild, bloody ride from start to finish. There were a couple of times I wanted to put the book down and take a breather. For some reason this installment just seemed more intense, at times emotionally draining. It is most definitely a game changer.
Deacon Chalk lost his family to monsters five years ago. It was a horrific night and he’s tried to bury those memories deep in his mind so he can survive day-to-day. He came out of that a changed man, a strong, hard-core vigilante who fights for those people who can’t fight for themselves. Over the course of the last three books he’s gathered a group of people around him who he considers his family, and has let himself fall in love again. Tiff is the perfect companion for a man who lives his life immersed in violence. She’s soft and understanding when he needs her to be and tough enough to walk beside him and fight her own battles. Most of these characters have been with Deacon since the beginning, they’ve endeared themselves to the readers and become ingrained in this series, but like I said at the beginning, no character is safe. There is loss in Blood and Magick. A sad, profound loss that I think will end up haunting Deacon for some time to come.
When the story opens Deacon, Tiff, Kat and Larson are all dressed up and eating at a fancy restaurant. What starts as a nice night out ends up with a trio of witches crashing through the wall intent on stealing the blood of the were children Deacon has sworn to protect. The three sons born to Sophia in the previous book are the key to a ritual needed to open a rift between worlds and the witches will do anything to acquire them. This is a fight Deacon is willing to take on, but a few of the friends he usually relies on are now suspect and he has an all new ally in the form of a mysterious government agency to contend with.
“That right there, Deacon. That’s your problem. You think you know what’s right and wrong. Worse, you think you get to decide what’s right and what’s wrong. You stand there so convinced that there’s only your way or the highway. You self-righteous asshole, life is complicated. You should grow up and realize that.
As always there is a battle between good and evil, Deacon and his allies against the monsters, but there is also an internal struggle between this group of friends. Does doing bad things with good intentions make them right? Will spells and magick corrupt even the best people? Faith and religious belief also play a larger role. Deacon and his friend Father Mulcahy are willing to get their hands bloody in order to protect the kids, but ultimately in the larger battle with these satanic creatures its faith that saves the day. Deacon’s memories of his family are brought to the surface during this conflict and by the conclusion he must make painful decisions. Friendships are tested, past enemies turn into unwilling allies, new characters are introduced and the story arc is moved along at high-speed. There was so much going on that by the last chapter I was kind of shocked at how much had changed in only 310 pages. But I can’t wait to see where James R Tuck takes this series next.
Blood and Magick is a violent, dark, twisted thrill ride. Action packed from the first page to the last. A definite must read for fans of a darker urban fantasy. Final Grade: B+
Favorite Quote:
“You are crazy.”
I waved my hand. “Not me. Just busy. Got shit to do.” Like track down some witches. “So suture me up and get me moving.”
“You sure you don’t want to do it yourself? I can give you the stuff?”
“Don’t be a smartass. Nobody likes a smartass.”
March 20, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/03/06/...
I’ve found in the past that I have a hard time getting into urban fantasy series with a male protagonist. I think it probably has something to do with the *usual* lack of a strong romantic sub-plot. However, when I first picked up the Deacon Chalk books, I was pleasantly surprised at just how much I enjoyed the book, the author, and the series overall.
Deacon is no stranger to the monsters that haunt the night. Since the brutal murder of his family, he has made it his mission in life to hunt down each and every creature in his city. He has slowly extended his circle of friends and continues to fight the good fight. When a group of witches who have been terrorizing the world for hundreds of years come knocking on his doorstep, Deacon will have to partner with an unlikely partner – a government agent from an agency he’s never heard of – in order to take them out. But as the body count rises, Deacon will have to make some hard choices, and pray that he will be able to take out the triad before someone he loves gets caught in the crossfire.
Let me start by saying that this book takes place over the course of just a few days. How Deacon, Tiff, and the others got through this hellish night is beyond me, because the action was non-stop and hard hitting. The book starts with a bang (literally), and just keeps the hits coming one after another. I was tired just reading what they were going through!!
Many times I struggle with the urban fantasy genre because authors don’t provide enough of a romance to keep me engaged, especially with a male protagonist. However, Tuck has done an amazing job slowly building the romance between Deacon and Tiff. I love these two together. Despite the reservations Deacon has about falling in love again, he hasn’t done any boneheaded move like push her away to avoid his feelings. They fight side-by-side, they provide the support the other needs, and they have a pretty solid relationship. Plus, we get a pretty steamy love scene in this book. So hot! I’ve enjoyed watching these two come together throughout the series and hope that Tuck continues building a wonderful bond with these two.
I’ve also really come to adore the supporting cast of characters in this series. From Deacon’s best friend and hacker genius Kat, surrogate father and priest Father Mulchay to Ronnie, the stripper who was bonded with a group of ghost spiders to Sophia and her mysterious were-babies. They are a wonderful support system for Deacon and the series in general. A new addition to the team was added this book, Agent Heck, and I hope we can see more of him in the future! My only fear is that Tuck has shown he isn’t afraid to off one of the main characters, and I can’t imagine shedding anymore tears when my next favorite person is killed.
I’m really excited to see where Tuck takes the series next, especially after the way things ended for Deacon and crew. The witches really did a number on everything that Deacon holds dear in life, so I’m anxious to see what direction the series will be taking in the next installment.
All in all I continue to be impressed with the Deacon Chalk series. I think the books continue to get better and better with each new installment. I love Deacon’s kick ass ways and his ever present sarcasm. Although the books have quite a bit of a religious base, I’ve never felt as if religion was being slammed down my throat while reading, and that is a miracle in and of itself. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Deacon, Tiff and the rest of the crew!
I give Blood and Magick a B+
I’ve found in the past that I have a hard time getting into urban fantasy series with a male protagonist. I think it probably has something to do with the *usual* lack of a strong romantic sub-plot. However, when I first picked up the Deacon Chalk books, I was pleasantly surprised at just how much I enjoyed the book, the author, and the series overall.
Deacon is no stranger to the monsters that haunt the night. Since the brutal murder of his family, he has made it his mission in life to hunt down each and every creature in his city. He has slowly extended his circle of friends and continues to fight the good fight. When a group of witches who have been terrorizing the world for hundreds of years come knocking on his doorstep, Deacon will have to partner with an unlikely partner – a government agent from an agency he’s never heard of – in order to take them out. But as the body count rises, Deacon will have to make some hard choices, and pray that he will be able to take out the triad before someone he loves gets caught in the crossfire.
Let me start by saying that this book takes place over the course of just a few days. How Deacon, Tiff, and the others got through this hellish night is beyond me, because the action was non-stop and hard hitting. The book starts with a bang (literally), and just keeps the hits coming one after another. I was tired just reading what they were going through!!
Many times I struggle with the urban fantasy genre because authors don’t provide enough of a romance to keep me engaged, especially with a male protagonist. However, Tuck has done an amazing job slowly building the romance between Deacon and Tiff. I love these two together. Despite the reservations Deacon has about falling in love again, he hasn’t done any boneheaded move like push her away to avoid his feelings. They fight side-by-side, they provide the support the other needs, and they have a pretty solid relationship. Plus, we get a pretty steamy love scene in this book. So hot! I’ve enjoyed watching these two come together throughout the series and hope that Tuck continues building a wonderful bond with these two.
I’ve also really come to adore the supporting cast of characters in this series. From Deacon’s best friend and hacker genius Kat, surrogate father and priest Father Mulchay to Ronnie, the stripper who was bonded with a group of ghost spiders to Sophia and her mysterious were-babies. They are a wonderful support system for Deacon and the series in general. A new addition to the team was added this book, Agent Heck, and I hope we can see more of him in the future! My only fear is that Tuck has shown he isn’t afraid to off one of the main characters, and I can’t imagine shedding anymore tears when my next favorite person is killed.
I’m really excited to see where Tuck takes the series next, especially after the way things ended for Deacon and crew. The witches really did a number on everything that Deacon holds dear in life, so I’m anxious to see what direction the series will be taking in the next installment.
All in all I continue to be impressed with the Deacon Chalk series. I think the books continue to get better and better with each new installment. I love Deacon’s kick ass ways and his ever present sarcasm. Although the books have quite a bit of a religious base, I’ve never felt as if religion was being slammed down my throat while reading, and that is a miracle in and of itself. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Deacon, Tiff and the rest of the crew!
I give Blood and Magick a B+
March 10, 2013
Originally published at Reading Reality
James R. Tuck's Deaconverse is an absolutely fascinating version of urban fantasy. And so far, totally different from any other.
It's ironic that I started reading it because I was looking for something to tide me over between Dresden Files books, because Harry Dresden would not be welcome in the Deaconverse. There does not appear to be any such thing as a "good" wizard in this world. Only bad ones and dead ones. Unless later on we find out there is a difference between witches and wizards. (I can dream...)
Deacon Chalk is the one who turns the bad ones into dead ones. Usually in a hail of gunfire. Deacon does love his guns. But axes work too. So do holy swords.
It doesn't matter that the magick-user used to be a friend. In Deacon's world, magick always involves a deal with evil. And there's no turning back once someone starts down that road.
Blood and Magick is all about the price that has to be paid when someone Deacon thought was on the side of the righteous begins practicing magick and calls down a lot more trouble than even Deacon bargained on.
I'm not sure that anyone actually wins in this particular story. That's not the point. This one is about revelations, possibly with a capital R, as in REVELATIONS, all religious contexts included.
There are enough left on the side of the righteous to fight another day. But when evil is very strong, and very powerful (not to mention that some of it is way too close to home), not everyone makes it home.
Especially if home isn't there anymore.
Escape Rating A-: I could not put this one down. I almost missed my bus stop. I was even hoping for bad traffic on the I-5 bridge to work, and that's a seriously dangerous wish at the best of times!
This story is a turning point. You can see things get more dangerous, and more serious. There's a foundation being laid for the next books in the series, and it's solid work. Deacon and his crew are settling in for the long fight.
At the same time, the revelations about Father Mulcahy (and I love that, Father Mulcahy, it can't be the same guy from M*A*S*H, but it still gets me every time) and his past, and the seriously dangerous job he has for the Vatican is both cool and has definitely fascinating undertones of The DaVinci Code, only much more dangerous.
I loved the nod to Laurel K. Hamilton's Anitaverse. Whatever anyone might think of the later books in the series, the idea that Deacon knows Anita Blake and Jean-Claude, and that in his world Guilty Pleasures is a biopic about her life is screamingly funny.
Deacon is the most righteous badass you'll ever meet. He's suppressing more awful stuff than most people do in several lifetimes. But he's fantastic fun to read. I can't wait for the next book!
James R. Tuck's Deaconverse is an absolutely fascinating version of urban fantasy. And so far, totally different from any other.
It's ironic that I started reading it because I was looking for something to tide me over between Dresden Files books, because Harry Dresden would not be welcome in the Deaconverse. There does not appear to be any such thing as a "good" wizard in this world. Only bad ones and dead ones. Unless later on we find out there is a difference between witches and wizards. (I can dream...)
Deacon Chalk is the one who turns the bad ones into dead ones. Usually in a hail of gunfire. Deacon does love his guns. But axes work too. So do holy swords.
It doesn't matter that the magick-user used to be a friend. In Deacon's world, magick always involves a deal with evil. And there's no turning back once someone starts down that road.
Blood and Magick is all about the price that has to be paid when someone Deacon thought was on the side of the righteous begins practicing magick and calls down a lot more trouble than even Deacon bargained on.
I'm not sure that anyone actually wins in this particular story. That's not the point. This one is about revelations, possibly with a capital R, as in REVELATIONS, all religious contexts included.
There are enough left on the side of the righteous to fight another day. But when evil is very strong, and very powerful (not to mention that some of it is way too close to home), not everyone makes it home.
Especially if home isn't there anymore.
Escape Rating A-: I could not put this one down. I almost missed my bus stop. I was even hoping for bad traffic on the I-5 bridge to work, and that's a seriously dangerous wish at the best of times!
This story is a turning point. You can see things get more dangerous, and more serious. There's a foundation being laid for the next books in the series, and it's solid work. Deacon and his crew are settling in for the long fight.
At the same time, the revelations about Father Mulcahy (and I love that, Father Mulcahy, it can't be the same guy from M*A*S*H, but it still gets me every time) and his past, and the seriously dangerous job he has for the Vatican is both cool and has definitely fascinating undertones of The DaVinci Code, only much more dangerous.
I loved the nod to Laurel K. Hamilton's Anitaverse. Whatever anyone might think of the later books in the series, the idea that Deacon knows Anita Blake and Jean-Claude, and that in his world Guilty Pleasures is a biopic about her life is screamingly funny.
Deacon is the most righteous badass you'll ever meet. He's suppressing more awful stuff than most people do in several lifetimes. But he's fantastic fun to read. I can't wait for the next book!
April 18, 2013
I received an e-copy of this book from the publishers on the condition that I write an honest review.
First things first, I haven't read the first two in this series but I'm now on a mission to find them.
I found Deacon to be just the right side of Alpha without coming across as a total Tarzan, "me say you do this, so you do this" type. I found him refreshing and also at times a little vulnerable, especially when he's remembering the family he lost.
I wasn't sure at first as to what was going on, I mean who starts out a story in a restaurant but from the first paragraph, I was hooked. From the very first scene, where he isn't happy about wearing a suit that doesn't fit to describing Tiff. That was it for me, hook, line and sinker. Then we get the explosion and that's when the action really takes off. It's a non-stop rollercoaster of action with barely a moment to breath, well except from a quick little shower sex scene but that just added to the story.
I loved his priest, a chain-smoking, alcohol-drinking holy-roller. As is mentioned in the story by one of the characters "Best. Priest. Ever". Which is saying something as I don't believe in religion, no matter what form it comes in. But that's just me. I loved all the references to all the different types of Were's he knows or has killed. My favourite mention of all is the shout out to Laurel K. Hamilton's Anita Blake and Jean-Claude, as if they are his shooting or monster hunting buddies. That just made me smile, it's not often another authors creation gets a little mention.
I loved the triplets, they sound so cute calling him "Unca Deacon" and constantly changing from one form to another, never all the same. The whole book is full of wonderful characters that I could picture in my head which to me, makes a book. If I can picture them as they are portrayed it makes it seem more real. There's a better connection.
I felt his pain at Kat's demise and he was right, it was all Larson's fault, he brought the whole shebang down on their heads by messing with things he didn't understand. Although I think leaving Larson as he did is probably going to bite him in the ass at a later date. I did actually laugh at him describing the Cockatrice, just picturing it in my head was mental.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy and paranormal. I would rank Mr James R. Tuck up there with Jim Butcher, Kim Harrison, Laurel K. Hamilton and Patricia Briggs.
First things first, I haven't read the first two in this series but I'm now on a mission to find them.
I found Deacon to be just the right side of Alpha without coming across as a total Tarzan, "me say you do this, so you do this" type. I found him refreshing and also at times a little vulnerable, especially when he's remembering the family he lost.
I wasn't sure at first as to what was going on, I mean who starts out a story in a restaurant but from the first paragraph, I was hooked. From the very first scene, where he isn't happy about wearing a suit that doesn't fit to describing Tiff. That was it for me, hook, line and sinker. Then we get the explosion and that's when the action really takes off. It's a non-stop rollercoaster of action with barely a moment to breath, well except from a quick little shower sex scene but that just added to the story.
I loved his priest, a chain-smoking, alcohol-drinking holy-roller. As is mentioned in the story by one of the characters "Best. Priest. Ever". Which is saying something as I don't believe in religion, no matter what form it comes in. But that's just me. I loved all the references to all the different types of Were's he knows or has killed. My favourite mention of all is the shout out to Laurel K. Hamilton's Anita Blake and Jean-Claude, as if they are his shooting or monster hunting buddies. That just made me smile, it's not often another authors creation gets a little mention.
I loved the triplets, they sound so cute calling him "Unca Deacon" and constantly changing from one form to another, never all the same. The whole book is full of wonderful characters that I could picture in my head which to me, makes a book. If I can picture them as they are portrayed it makes it seem more real. There's a better connection.
I felt his pain at Kat's demise and he was right, it was all Larson's fault, he brought the whole shebang down on their heads by messing with things he didn't understand. Although I think leaving Larson as he did is probably going to bite him in the ass at a later date. I did actually laugh at him describing the Cockatrice, just picturing it in my head was mental.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy and paranormal. I would rank Mr James R. Tuck up there with Jim Butcher, Kim Harrison, Laurel K. Hamilton and Patricia Briggs.
November 6, 2013
I adore ADORE this series and was thrilled to get a review copy of the third. James R. Tuck did not let me down what so ever. I ended up re-reading the second one and though it is not necessary (Tuck does a great quick recap without tons of info dump), it made my experience even more intense.
Lately I have read a bunch of Kim Harrison female-centric UF books and usually male orientated ones leave me bored, but for some reason Tuck manages to balance just the right of compassion, action, snark and bad-a$$ery you don't want it to stop. Plus, his car? And he is a tattoo artist? (oh in real life too) and and.. and he is NICE TO KIDS and girls and is just awesome! GO get the series and you won't be disappointed!
Oh BTW? None of these guys sparkle ............ at all! So wear a splatter jacket on your brain! *GRIN*
If you have not had the chance, check out his special short story from Deacon on my blog James R. Tuck gives Deacon some “FRESH INK” (Fourth-Wall Friday)
Lately I have read a bunch of Kim Harrison female-centric UF books and usually male orientated ones leave me bored, but for some reason Tuck manages to balance just the right of compassion, action, snark and bad-a$$ery you don't want it to stop. Plus, his car? And he is a tattoo artist? (oh in real life too) and and.. and he is NICE TO KIDS and girls and is just awesome! GO get the series and you won't be disappointed!
Oh BTW? None of these guys sparkle ............ at all! So wear a splatter jacket on your brain! *GRIN*
If you have not had the chance, check out his special short story from Deacon on my blog James R. Tuck gives Deacon some “FRESH INK” (Fourth-Wall Friday)
January 26, 2013
Another great addition to the Deacon Chalk series! I got this as an ARC through Netgalley and Kensington Press, and I'm so glad I did. This is a series that I follow and am always waiting for the next one. Pure action from start to finish just the way I like it. This time Deacon has to save a friends kids from three murderous witches out for blood, literally. With help from his friends and kick ass girlfriend, Deacon is probably on his biggest baddest adventure yet. Lots of action with a little sex/romance thrown in. James R. Tuck is really good at balancing this out, something some authors are forgetting in the pursuit to cash in on the erotica craze. Witches, and Zombies, and Vampires, oh my!
February 28, 2013
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Full Review Shortly*
This book was gung ho and bloody right from the first page until nearly the last. Packed full of action and villains that are blood thirsty and mean to take Deacon and crew down in their wake. Sad that one of my favorite characters gets written out of the series. Damn you James how could you?!?!? James makes up for it with a very smexy scene betweeen Tiffany and Deacon. This book is a game changer in my opinion. Things are looking to become even bumpier in the next installments which I can't wait to get my greedy little paws on.
More shortly!
*Recvd via Netgalley 01/11/2013* Expected publication: March 4th 2013 by Kensington
*Rating* 4.0
*Full Review Shortly*
This book was gung ho and bloody right from the first page until nearly the last. Packed full of action and villains that are blood thirsty and mean to take Deacon and crew down in their wake. Sad that one of my favorite characters gets written out of the series. Damn you James how could you?!?!? James makes up for it with a very smexy scene betweeen Tiffany and Deacon. This book is a game changer in my opinion. Things are looking to become even bumpier in the next installments which I can't wait to get my greedy little paws on.
More shortly!
*Recvd via Netgalley 01/11/2013* Expected publication: March 4th 2013 by Kensington
April 12, 2018
Self consciously 'cool' with virtually nothing but non-stop action and a far too over powered hero, I fear I really ought to hate these books, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to admit to finding them a true guilty pleasure.
They read faster than a very fast thing and the narrative never stops to draw breath. Tuck has already populated his universe with all sorts of gods, demons, various weres and magical creatures and you really can't help caring at least a little bit for the one's you're supposed to. There is a surprising level of emotional engagement that, frankly, I didn't expect and I'm already looking forward to the next one!
They read faster than a very fast thing and the narrative never stops to draw breath. Tuck has already populated his universe with all sorts of gods, demons, various weres and magical creatures and you really can't help caring at least a little bit for the one's you're supposed to. There is a surprising level of emotional engagement that, frankly, I didn't expect and I'm already looking forward to the next one!
December 28, 2020
MY KIND OF HERO
I love me some Deacon Chalk Bounty Hunter. He's my kind of hero. For a man who thought he had no purpose in life after is young family members were murdered by an avaricious man looking for magical powers. Throughout his journey he was transformed from a man who sought revenge and met multiple friends in his journey. He became a redeemed man striving to rid the world of monsters that human minds could not comprehend. I like that life has turned the main character into the best part of himself. If you want to know more move to the Deaconverse and enjoy.
I love me some Deacon Chalk Bounty Hunter. He's my kind of hero. For a man who thought he had no purpose in life after is young family members were murdered by an avaricious man looking for magical powers. Throughout his journey he was transformed from a man who sought revenge and met multiple friends in his journey. He became a redeemed man striving to rid the world of monsters that human minds could not comprehend. I like that life has turned the main character into the best part of himself. If you want to know more move to the Deaconverse and enjoy.
June 15, 2017
This is probably the last time I visit the Deacon Chalk universe. As another reviewer alluded, the writing has gotten somewhat better, there was a lot of action, but Deacon Chalk is an asshat, and gets more asshatted as the story continues.
It's tiring to read a character that is always right, no matter what, and every time he calls his girlfriend "little girl," as a Deacon ChAlk term of endearment, I want her to shoot him.
It's tiring to read a character that is always right, no matter what, and every time he calls his girlfriend "little girl," as a Deacon ChAlk term of endearment, I want her to shoot him.
July 10, 2018
Could be better... but this series is getting better very slowly In its tough story line, but tends to keep repeating story motivations and plot history. (Please stop..Mr. Tuck) if someone has not followed the history of the series we do not need a recap...each book! What I did enjoy was seeing a primary character perish and a twist in the addition of a government agent. We are on to witches with this 3rd book. Brain candy for sure but I look forward to the next installment.
September 4, 2017
Badass piece of turd. So cheap it should be printed on toilet paper and sold in rolls. Plot is from some crappy comuic book? or from turning most common wheel of plots? Guns parts are crappy also (well Monster Hunter International Series by Larry Correia did it much better). Original ideas - zero, entertainment - zero, value - below zero.
March 17, 2020
Freaking Amazingly Awesome!!!
I just wanted to cry when the book ended because no i am not ready to give up Deacon just yet. The characters are so amazing. I laugh, cry, scream, cuss, and go through more emotions then a woman suffering menopause while trying tool give up cigarettes and coffee. I love this series. There isn't any better.
I just wanted to cry when the book ended because no i am not ready to give up Deacon just yet. The characters are so amazing. I laugh, cry, scream, cuss, and go through more emotions then a woman suffering menopause while trying tool give up cigarettes and coffee. I love this series. There isn't any better.
January 9, 2017
Too over-the-top action without enough character depth. I did like it better than the second book, but not enough to care about any of the characters or what happens next.
June 29, 2017
Another great Deacon Chalk book. Sad this is the last one. It was a great adventure thank you. Hope there is more. First series read by this author. I will move on to other series from the him.
April 30, 2019
Good Pulp Fiction
Back to the good old hard ass Deacon from book one. The writing in this book and book one had great flow and and pace and kept me engaged to the finish.
Back to the good old hard ass Deacon from book one. The writing in this book and book one had great flow and and pace and kept me engaged to the finish.
June 18, 2020
I love this series. I honestly like this book better then the second book. There was a lot of things I wasnt expecting to happen but it. Love the turn of events.
June 14, 2013
Book Info: Genre: Urban Fantasy
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of darker, action-oriented, male-centric Urban Fantasy
Trigger Warnings: mass murder in various, gory ways, children in danger, torture
My Thoughts: So, this is the latest of the Deacon Chalk books. I'm sure there will be more, but I have no information about when or what form they will take.
I keep forgetting to mention how badly I lust over Deacon's car. I had a Ford Maverick in high school, which is essentially the same car as a Mercury Comet, and I loved that thing.
I've always loved hot rods and high-octane cars, so it only makes sense.
I spent a lot of this book screaming, “No! NONONONONONO!!!” I mean, it was terrible what happened... but I can't tell you. It's full of things that could be spoilers. I'm interested to see where things go with O.C.I.D.; it was a really interesting twist.
Speaking generally about the series, since this is the last one (for now: more on the way), I was less-than-impressed with the editing. I would recommend the author review my blog posts Department of Redundancies Department and We Gotta get Out of this Habit (both posted on Now is Gone in April, 2013 if you're reading this on a site where formatting is not allowed and the links aren't there as a result). The abuse of “got” and “get” as well as redundancies was often very irritating.
However, overall I have enjoyed reading these books. It's awesome to have high action and low romance for a change, although—like Joss Whedon—James R. Tuck is not afraid to kill off characters, which some people find very upsetting. Still, if you've been wanting some urban fantasy that isn't clogged with sex and romance, this is the one for you. There is some sex, but it's not all over the place.
So, fans of male-centric, action-oriented urban fantasy should definitely check out the Deacon Chalk series. You can step into it wherever you want, since Tuck is very good about giving small segments of background information as the stories go along, but I'm sure if you start you'll want to read the whole thing. I know I'll be looking for new books in the series.
Series Information: Blood and Magick is Book d in the Deacon Chalk series
Book .5: That Thing at the Zoo, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1: Blood and Bullets, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1.5: Spider's Lullaby, review linked here where formatting allowed
Book 2: Blood and Silver, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 2.5: Circus of Blood, review linked here where formatting allowed
Disclosure: While I was accepted for this with NetGalley, I actually purchased my own copy. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Taking out hellish creatures—not a problem. Armed with blessed silver hollow-points and the ability to manipulate magick, he’s ready for anything—except betrayal he never saw coming…
Deacon Chalk knows the biggest danger in fighting monsters is becoming one. Just another day at the office for your friendly neighborhood occult bounty hunter. If keeping three helpless were-dog children safe means battling a malevolent trio of witches by any means necessary, so be it. If that means partnering with a ruthless government agent to stay one step ahead of the allies and friends he must now suspect, he’s not going to cry about it. The only way Deacon can save humans and shape-shifters alike is to embrace a power beyond his imagining, putting his team at stake—and his soul on the line…
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of darker, action-oriented, male-centric Urban Fantasy
Trigger Warnings: mass murder in various, gory ways, children in danger, torture
My Thoughts: So, this is the latest of the Deacon Chalk books. I'm sure there will be more, but I have no information about when or what form they will take.
I keep forgetting to mention how badly I lust over Deacon's car. I had a Ford Maverick in high school, which is essentially the same car as a Mercury Comet, and I loved that thing.
I've always loved hot rods and high-octane cars, so it only makes sense.
I spent a lot of this book screaming, “No! NONONONONONO!!!” I mean, it was terrible what happened... but I can't tell you. It's full of things that could be spoilers. I'm interested to see where things go with O.C.I.D.; it was a really interesting twist.
Speaking generally about the series, since this is the last one (for now: more on the way), I was less-than-impressed with the editing. I would recommend the author review my blog posts Department of Redundancies Department and We Gotta get Out of this Habit (both posted on Now is Gone in April, 2013 if you're reading this on a site where formatting is not allowed and the links aren't there as a result). The abuse of “got” and “get” as well as redundancies was often very irritating.
However, overall I have enjoyed reading these books. It's awesome to have high action and low romance for a change, although—like Joss Whedon—James R. Tuck is not afraid to kill off characters, which some people find very upsetting. Still, if you've been wanting some urban fantasy that isn't clogged with sex and romance, this is the one for you. There is some sex, but it's not all over the place.
So, fans of male-centric, action-oriented urban fantasy should definitely check out the Deacon Chalk series. You can step into it wherever you want, since Tuck is very good about giving small segments of background information as the stories go along, but I'm sure if you start you'll want to read the whole thing. I know I'll be looking for new books in the series.
Series Information: Blood and Magick is Book d in the Deacon Chalk series
Book .5: That Thing at the Zoo, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1: Blood and Bullets, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1.5: Spider's Lullaby, review linked here where formatting allowed
Book 2: Blood and Silver, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 2.5: Circus of Blood, review linked here where formatting allowed
Disclosure: While I was accepted for this with NetGalley, I actually purchased my own copy. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Taking out hellish creatures—not a problem. Armed with blessed silver hollow-points and the ability to manipulate magick, he’s ready for anything—except betrayal he never saw coming…
Deacon Chalk knows the biggest danger in fighting monsters is becoming one. Just another day at the office for your friendly neighborhood occult bounty hunter. If keeping three helpless were-dog children safe means battling a malevolent trio of witches by any means necessary, so be it. If that means partnering with a ruthless government agent to stay one step ahead of the allies and friends he must now suspect, he’s not going to cry about it. The only way Deacon can save humans and shape-shifters alike is to embrace a power beyond his imagining, putting his team at stake—and his soul on the line…
April 29, 2013
Reviewed for www.bookchickcity.com
Deacon is back! Blood and Magick is book number 3 in Tuck’s Deacon Chalk series (if you don’t count the additional novellas), and as always within the first page you’re thrown into a serious, edge of your seat action scene. This series gives you very little time to breathe, there are just too many evil, bad guys. Witches it would seem this time.
Deacon is an occult bounty-hunter and ruthless to the point of brutal. After his family were murdered and he was saved by an Angel, he’s got some extra powers he never had before, and is bent on stopping evil at all costs. He doesn’t pull any punches or guns for that matter.
I’ve said it before (in nearly all my Deacon reviews sorry!), but I will say it again, Deacon really reminds me of a male Anita Blake. In Blood and Magick he seemed even more hard-line than before. You just don’t cross lines in Deacon’s world, even a little bit of grey might find you with his gun pointed at you. He seems even harder in this book than previous instalments, Deacon always has been a tough man, who leads a brutal life, but I did feel in this book that his edge took on a sharper tone.
Tuck himself has described Blood and Magick as a ‘game changer‘ in the book’s afterword:
"The book is the game changer. From here on out things only get wilder in the Deaconverse. I definitely want you to hold on tight."
So be prepared for some serious plot developments. I can’t really say much more than that without giving too much away, but the development did leave me quite surprised and really intrigued about where the series is going to go next. Honestly there are multiple changes for many characters, as well as previously unknown occult government division and religious order. Also Deacon’s magical abilities seem to be growing and as yet have not been fully explored.
I’ve also grown used to Tuck’s plot style. Instead of expecting a mystery element like you see in a lot of urban fantasy books, you generally know who the baddie is upfront. Which means the story centres around how Deacon and co. are going to stop them, usually with a lot of fight scenes and oh yes guns . Tuck obviously still does have a lot up his sleeve, you can see different threads being sewn into the larger plot, as well as more to learn about existing characters. I for one would love to know more about Father Mulcahy for starters.
I’m still on the fence about the Deacon/Tiff relationship, although reading other reviews for previous books, I think I might be in the minority on this. Tiff has most definitely grown up and got a hell of a lot tougher. Her injury and loss of an eye in Blood and Silver has added texture to her character, adding both vulnerability and strength. It’s not even that I don’t like her as a character, I really do. I have especially enjoyed her character development, but there were periods when I enjoyed the relationship between her and Deacon, and periods when I wasn’t sure it worked. But, I do enjoy seeing the softer side of Deacon when he’s with her. There is however a tiny part of me that still has hopes of a mini Charlotte and Deacon romance, who was sadly noticeable by her absence in this book, I do hope she returns for next instalment.
One thing that niggled me a bit was a plot continuity issue. Before a pivotal scene with a key character Deacon’s shoulder was badly injured, then afterwards in the last battle scene when he’s fighting with a rather bad-ass sword and it’s like the injury is totally forgotten. Perhaps it’s because I was reading an ARC, anyone else notice this?
VERDICT:
A good, solid addition to Tuck’s urban fantasy series. I feel like the series is now on the cusp of something big. The introduction of an occult government agency alone leaves some really great possibilities for plot development, I also wonder where Deacon’s magical abilities are going to take him as well as his relationship with Tiff. If your a fan of quite violent, gritty urban fantasy I recommend you pick this series up.
RATING: 3.5/5
Deacon is back! Blood and Magick is book number 3 in Tuck’s Deacon Chalk series (if you don’t count the additional novellas), and as always within the first page you’re thrown into a serious, edge of your seat action scene. This series gives you very little time to breathe, there are just too many evil, bad guys. Witches it would seem this time.
Deacon is an occult bounty-hunter and ruthless to the point of brutal. After his family were murdered and he was saved by an Angel, he’s got some extra powers he never had before, and is bent on stopping evil at all costs. He doesn’t pull any punches or guns for that matter.
I’ve said it before (in nearly all my Deacon reviews sorry!), but I will say it again, Deacon really reminds me of a male Anita Blake. In Blood and Magick he seemed even more hard-line than before. You just don’t cross lines in Deacon’s world, even a little bit of grey might find you with his gun pointed at you. He seems even harder in this book than previous instalments, Deacon always has been a tough man, who leads a brutal life, but I did feel in this book that his edge took on a sharper tone.
Tuck himself has described Blood and Magick as a ‘game changer‘ in the book’s afterword:
"The book is the game changer. From here on out things only get wilder in the Deaconverse. I definitely want you to hold on tight."
So be prepared for some serious plot developments. I can’t really say much more than that without giving too much away, but the development did leave me quite surprised and really intrigued about where the series is going to go next. Honestly there are multiple changes for many characters, as well as previously unknown occult government division and religious order. Also Deacon’s magical abilities seem to be growing and as yet have not been fully explored.
I’ve also grown used to Tuck’s plot style. Instead of expecting a mystery element like you see in a lot of urban fantasy books, you generally know who the baddie is upfront. Which means the story centres around how Deacon and co. are going to stop them, usually with a lot of fight scenes and oh yes guns . Tuck obviously still does have a lot up his sleeve, you can see different threads being sewn into the larger plot, as well as more to learn about existing characters. I for one would love to know more about Father Mulcahy for starters.
I’m still on the fence about the Deacon/Tiff relationship, although reading other reviews for previous books, I think I might be in the minority on this. Tiff has most definitely grown up and got a hell of a lot tougher. Her injury and loss of an eye in Blood and Silver has added texture to her character, adding both vulnerability and strength. It’s not even that I don’t like her as a character, I really do. I have especially enjoyed her character development, but there were periods when I enjoyed the relationship between her and Deacon, and periods when I wasn’t sure it worked. But, I do enjoy seeing the softer side of Deacon when he’s with her. There is however a tiny part of me that still has hopes of a mini Charlotte and Deacon romance, who was sadly noticeable by her absence in this book, I do hope she returns for next instalment.
One thing that niggled me a bit was a plot continuity issue. Before a pivotal scene with a key character Deacon’s shoulder was badly injured, then afterwards in the last battle scene when he’s fighting with a rather bad-ass sword and it’s like the injury is totally forgotten. Perhaps it’s because I was reading an ARC, anyone else notice this?
VERDICT:
A good, solid addition to Tuck’s urban fantasy series. I feel like the series is now on the cusp of something big. The introduction of an occult government agency alone leaves some really great possibilities for plot development, I also wonder where Deacon’s magical abilities are going to take him as well as his relationship with Tiff. If your a fan of quite violent, gritty urban fantasy I recommend you pick this series up.
RATING: 3.5/5
December 14, 2016
Deacon has always known that Sophia's cubs are different and have special magic-having a were-lion dad and were-dog mother, but he hoped that was a secret that would be kept from the wider supernatural community. When reckless actions of a friend bring the kids blood to the attention of three deadly witches, Deacon is going to have the fight of his life just trying to keep his people alive. And finding out that an occult government agency know all about him is making him even more nervous...
ARRGGHH! This plot was just wild and brilliant and horrible all at the same time! There are few urban fantasy series that can be so fast paced and kickass yet have you loving the characters and the real world issues that are going on between battles. The fight scenes as always really are brilliant, and at times you just fear that everyone is going to die. It makes it a bit of a nerve jangling read. It's not slow to get right into the story either which I love. It really does start with a bang. (sorry, sorry!) Having Deacon forced to work with an Agent was a nice addition to the plot as the author resisted the usual temptation to have total angst between them. I liked the addition of Agent Heck and I hope we see more of him. In fact he was the one who exposed the betrayal that Deacon has to deal with.
Deacon is feeling the guilt over Tiff's injuries from the previous battle but she shows her tough side and battles through it. I love the relationship between her and Deacon. Having a big tough guy calling her 'little girl' should feel totally creepy but between the two of them it just feels sweet! George cannot get his head together after losing Lucy and is becoming an alcoholic were-gorilla. Poor Sophia is about to pay the price AGAIN for having slept with the wrong guy. Now that she has finally found love with Kenny, the life of her children are in danger. Ronnie is starting to turn into a creepy spider lady which is freaking me out a bit and I think they need to give Charlotte a call. Josh is also trying to face up to his fears as boyfriend Boothe gets involved in the war. Father Mulcahy is also having to face that he is getting too old to recover from these constants fights and Deacon fears losing him.
The original group from the first book are having their problems too. Deacon is furious when he finds out that Larson has put them all in danger with his refusal to accept his own circumstances. His selfish actions, and the fact that he said he was just doing it for Kat made me want to thump him. I get that he doesn't want to be in a wheelchair but what he did was wrong on so many levels and as usual, he points the finger of blame everywhere else. The consequences of his actions are far reaching and when things turn bad for him, Larson just blames Deacon. I hate the guy so much I wanted to see him die by a were something or other. Hey, what about a were-wendigo! I felt just as betrayed by Kat's actions and had little sympathy for her.
As for the witches, well they were scary on a whole new level. Having Deacon facing a whole new type of battle was interesting as he can't just shoot his way out of trouble. It doesn't help that the witches can raise zombies and control vampires to use against him. Add in that one of the witches is also demon possessed and it goes to a whole different place. There is lots of magic as well as smack 'em down fights and I like that each book in this series does something a bit different. Deacon is also concerned that the public battles are endangering human lives and his anger rises with the body count. It is time to find out what the witches are planning and find a way to stop them before his people die...
The series is keeping up the standard and I really want to know when the next book is coming out!
ARRGGHH! This plot was just wild and brilliant and horrible all at the same time! There are few urban fantasy series that can be so fast paced and kickass yet have you loving the characters and the real world issues that are going on between battles. The fight scenes as always really are brilliant, and at times you just fear that everyone is going to die. It makes it a bit of a nerve jangling read. It's not slow to get right into the story either which I love. It really does start with a bang. (sorry, sorry!) Having Deacon forced to work with an Agent was a nice addition to the plot as the author resisted the usual temptation to have total angst between them. I liked the addition of Agent Heck and I hope we see more of him. In fact he was the one who exposed the betrayal that Deacon has to deal with.
Deacon is feeling the guilt over Tiff's injuries from the previous battle but she shows her tough side and battles through it. I love the relationship between her and Deacon. Having a big tough guy calling her 'little girl' should feel totally creepy but between the two of them it just feels sweet! George cannot get his head together after losing Lucy and is becoming an alcoholic were-gorilla. Poor Sophia is about to pay the price AGAIN for having slept with the wrong guy. Now that she has finally found love with Kenny, the life of her children are in danger. Ronnie is starting to turn into a creepy spider lady which is freaking me out a bit and I think they need to give Charlotte a call. Josh is also trying to face up to his fears as boyfriend Boothe gets involved in the war. Father Mulcahy is also having to face that he is getting too old to recover from these constants fights and Deacon fears losing him.
The original group from the first book are having their problems too. Deacon is furious when he finds out that Larson has put them all in danger with his refusal to accept his own circumstances. His selfish actions, and the fact that he said he was just doing it for Kat made me want to thump him. I get that he doesn't want to be in a wheelchair but what he did was wrong on so many levels and as usual, he points the finger of blame everywhere else. The consequences of his actions are far reaching and when things turn bad for him, Larson just blames Deacon. I hate the guy so much I wanted to see him die by a were something or other. Hey, what about a were-wendigo! I felt just as betrayed by Kat's actions and had little sympathy for her.
As for the witches, well they were scary on a whole new level. Having Deacon facing a whole new type of battle was interesting as he can't just shoot his way out of trouble. It doesn't help that the witches can raise zombies and control vampires to use against him. Add in that one of the witches is also demon possessed and it goes to a whole different place. There is lots of magic as well as smack 'em down fights and I like that each book in this series does something a bit different. Deacon is also concerned that the public battles are endangering human lives and his anger rises with the body count. It is time to find out what the witches are planning and find a way to stop them before his people die...
The series is keeping up the standard and I really want to know when the next book is coming out!
April 4, 2013
GUEST REVIEWER:
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Paul's Review:
Picture this: you get on a roller coaster thinking it is going to be awesome but that it is only going to last for a little bit, and then it will be over. Only problem is, you are wrong on both counts…
Blood and Magick by James R. Tuck is the roller coaster ride that grabs you from minute one, pulls you along at blistering speeds, twists you in all kinds of directions, surprises you whenever you think you aren't in for a surprise, and lasts (in a very good way) for a good long time. So this roller coaster ride is not just awesome, but really awesome.
Some authors have the gift of making you instantly dig the main character or characters, and James R. Tuck is definitely one of them. The main character, Deacon Chalk, has a lot going for him: he is a very cool man’s man, he is loyal and loving to his lady, he is a badass, he is into some very classic firepower (we are talking twin, chrome-plated 1911 Colt .45’s here, people), he likes his coffee with cream and sugar (the only way to go), possesses and uses magick, and he is capable of handling anything - the likes of devil-witches, demons, werewolves (and many other were-creatures for that matter), and evil spawn in general. Perhaps some authors would end up sounding corny talking about were-creatures other than werewolves, but James R. Tuck pulls it off well.
This is the third book in James R. Tuck’s Deacon Chalk series, but Tuck makes you feel instantly accustomed to his world and somehow not at all at a loss as to who Deacon Chalk is, what he does, and the hell in which he lives and with which he has to deal. You see, Deacon Chalk lost his wife and children to a vicious were-polar bear and is absolutely driven to rid the world of evil were-creatures and evil in general. And he does a bang-up job, too. Literally. The good guys in Blood and Magick are all tragic hero types: Deacon Chalk is living with the loss of his family and trying, almost hour by hour, not to allow himself to be consumed by rage and release his inner dragon. Tiff, Deacon’s evil-fighting partner and lover, lost one of her eyes in a battle and lives her life with both the physical and emotional scars. Father Mulcahy, Deacon’s mentor, is a hard-smoking, hard-drinking but devout Catholic priest who had a very hard life before he became a priest; he is only human with no special powers, like Tiff, but his inner and physical strength and his conviction to stay the evil-fighting course make him a very powerful friend and ally.
I really enjoy the way the author describes everything in his book and his use of his considerable vocabulary – everything from the way people look, the scenes, the action, the sensations, and even the smells. You really feel like you are witnessing all the action of this book, and it makes you want to read Tuck’s previous books and his novellas, too. I, for one, will read them all, and I hope you do, too.
This and other reviews available at Viviana, Enchantress of Books
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Paul's Review:
Picture this: you get on a roller coaster thinking it is going to be awesome but that it is only going to last for a little bit, and then it will be over. Only problem is, you are wrong on both counts…
Blood and Magick by James R. Tuck is the roller coaster ride that grabs you from minute one, pulls you along at blistering speeds, twists you in all kinds of directions, surprises you whenever you think you aren't in for a surprise, and lasts (in a very good way) for a good long time. So this roller coaster ride is not just awesome, but really awesome.
Some authors have the gift of making you instantly dig the main character or characters, and James R. Tuck is definitely one of them. The main character, Deacon Chalk, has a lot going for him: he is a very cool man’s man, he is loyal and loving to his lady, he is a badass, he is into some very classic firepower (we are talking twin, chrome-plated 1911 Colt .45’s here, people), he likes his coffee with cream and sugar (the only way to go), possesses and uses magick, and he is capable of handling anything - the likes of devil-witches, demons, werewolves (and many other were-creatures for that matter), and evil spawn in general. Perhaps some authors would end up sounding corny talking about were-creatures other than werewolves, but James R. Tuck pulls it off well.
This is the third book in James R. Tuck’s Deacon Chalk series, but Tuck makes you feel instantly accustomed to his world and somehow not at all at a loss as to who Deacon Chalk is, what he does, and the hell in which he lives and with which he has to deal. You see, Deacon Chalk lost his wife and children to a vicious were-polar bear and is absolutely driven to rid the world of evil were-creatures and evil in general. And he does a bang-up job, too. Literally. The good guys in Blood and Magick are all tragic hero types: Deacon Chalk is living with the loss of his family and trying, almost hour by hour, not to allow himself to be consumed by rage and release his inner dragon. Tiff, Deacon’s evil-fighting partner and lover, lost one of her eyes in a battle and lives her life with both the physical and emotional scars. Father Mulcahy, Deacon’s mentor, is a hard-smoking, hard-drinking but devout Catholic priest who had a very hard life before he became a priest; he is only human with no special powers, like Tiff, but his inner and physical strength and his conviction to stay the evil-fighting course make him a very powerful friend and ally.
I really enjoy the way the author describes everything in his book and his use of his considerable vocabulary – everything from the way people look, the scenes, the action, the sensations, and even the smells. You really feel like you are witnessing all the action of this book, and it makes you want to read Tuck’s previous books and his novellas, too. I, for one, will read them all, and I hope you do, too.
This and other reviews available at Viviana, Enchantress of Books
March 23, 2013
****Posted as a guest review over at paranormalhaven.com*****
As of late, I haven’t had a lot of luck reading many UF’s or PNR’s where you’re able to start midway through the series without being lost at sea when it comes to various elements within those novels. As such, James R. Tuck’s Blood and Magick comes as a welcome relief in this regard. This is book number three within the Deacon Chalk novels and it’s definitely worth checking out if you like your urban fantasy jam packed with lots of action, gore, and bizarre monsters.
The action gets started pretty much right off the bat. Deacon Chalk is having dinner with his girl Tiff, only to be interrupted by witches that go by the name of Wrath of Baphomet. Chaos and violence erupts as the witches attempt to make a bloodbath out of Deacon and the rest of the hapless dinner guests. It is explained that Deacon once got a transfusion of a blood from an Angel, so he’s not quite human, and a lot tougher to kill than most mortals. The author manages to work in details from earlier books, so that if you’re just tuning in, you’re not left behind. He does this well and all throughout the book.
When Deacon comes to after the fight, he meets Special Agent Silas Heck from the Occult Crimes Investigation Division. Suspicious is Deacon’s middle name, well, it’s not really, but it should be. He’s pretty much coerced into working with the federal agent after being shown footage of the carnage that took place with the witches from the Wrath of Baphomet. The feds want to make the witches disappear and Deacon is their best bet. During the aftermath of the fight, Deacon learns one of his friends has been keeping a pretty big secret from him, and this secret is what the witches were after.
Like many urban fantasy protagonists, Deacon comes with a tragic past that continually haunts him, but he’s worked at moving on, with the help of his new girlfriend Tiff. I thought one of the best parts of the entire book were the scenes that showcased how much they loved and cared for one another. The action scenes, in all honesty, came across as slightly over the top and rather campy. They go on for several chapters at a time, and while the chapters are pretty brief, it just got a little tiring to read after a little while. It really made me focus on when he wasn’t involved in fighting and those were the parts of the book I liked the most.
If you like Jim Butcher’s Harry Dresden or Kevin Hearne’s The Iron Druid Chronicles, then you may like Deacon Chalk. There’s humor, action, and all sorts of bizarre monsters. Not to mention weres. There were a great many mention of Weres. Were gorillas, were polar bears, even a brief mention of a were T-Rex. It’s one of those things that struck me a slightly ridiculous, but again, that’s just me. Overall, it was a fun read, but definitely not without its issues.
As of late, I haven’t had a lot of luck reading many UF’s or PNR’s where you’re able to start midway through the series without being lost at sea when it comes to various elements within those novels. As such, James R. Tuck’s Blood and Magick comes as a welcome relief in this regard. This is book number three within the Deacon Chalk novels and it’s definitely worth checking out if you like your urban fantasy jam packed with lots of action, gore, and bizarre monsters.
The action gets started pretty much right off the bat. Deacon Chalk is having dinner with his girl Tiff, only to be interrupted by witches that go by the name of Wrath of Baphomet. Chaos and violence erupts as the witches attempt to make a bloodbath out of Deacon and the rest of the hapless dinner guests. It is explained that Deacon once got a transfusion of a blood from an Angel, so he’s not quite human, and a lot tougher to kill than most mortals. The author manages to work in details from earlier books, so that if you’re just tuning in, you’re not left behind. He does this well and all throughout the book.
When Deacon comes to after the fight, he meets Special Agent Silas Heck from the Occult Crimes Investigation Division. Suspicious is Deacon’s middle name, well, it’s not really, but it should be. He’s pretty much coerced into working with the federal agent after being shown footage of the carnage that took place with the witches from the Wrath of Baphomet. The feds want to make the witches disappear and Deacon is their best bet. During the aftermath of the fight, Deacon learns one of his friends has been keeping a pretty big secret from him, and this secret is what the witches were after.
Like many urban fantasy protagonists, Deacon comes with a tragic past that continually haunts him, but he’s worked at moving on, with the help of his new girlfriend Tiff. I thought one of the best parts of the entire book were the scenes that showcased how much they loved and cared for one another. The action scenes, in all honesty, came across as slightly over the top and rather campy. They go on for several chapters at a time, and while the chapters are pretty brief, it just got a little tiring to read after a little while. It really made me focus on when he wasn’t involved in fighting and those were the parts of the book I liked the most.
If you like Jim Butcher’s Harry Dresden or Kevin Hearne’s The Iron Druid Chronicles, then you may like Deacon Chalk. There’s humor, action, and all sorts of bizarre monsters. Not to mention weres. There were a great many mention of Weres. Were gorillas, were polar bears, even a brief mention of a were T-Rex. It’s one of those things that struck me a slightly ridiculous, but again, that’s just me. Overall, it was a fun read, but definitely not without its issues.
March 15, 2013
As of late, I haven’t had a lot of luck reading many UF’s or PNR’s where you’re able to start midway through the series without being lost at sea when it comes to various elements within those novels. As such, James R. Tuck’s Blood and Magick comes as a welcome relief in this regard. This is book number three within the Deacon Chalk novels and it’s definitely worth checking out if you like your urban fantasy jam packed with lots of action, gore, and bizarre monsters.
The action gets started pretty much right off the bat. Deacon Chalk is having dinner with his girl Tiff, only to be interrupted by witches that go by the name of Wrath of Baphomet. Chaos and violence erupts as the witches attempt to make a bloodbath out of Deacon and the rest of the hapless dinner guests. It is explained that Deacon once got a transfusion of a blood from an Angel, so he’s not quite human, and a lot tougher to kill than most mortals. The author manages to work in details from earlier books, so that if you’re just tuning in, you’re not left behind. He does this well and all throughout the book.
When Deacon comes to after the fight, he meets Special Agent Silas Heck from the Occult Crimes Investigation Division. Suspicious is Deacon’s middle name, well, it’s not really, but it should be. He’s pretty much coerced into working with the federal agent after being shown footage of the carnage that took place with the witches from the Wrath of Baphomet. The feds want to make the witches disappear and Deacon is their best bet. During the aftermath of the fight, Deacon learns one of his friends has been keeping a pretty big secret from him, and this secret is what the witches were after.
Like many urban fantasy protagonists, Deacon comes with a tragic past that continually haunts him, but he’s worked at moving on, with the help of his new girlfriend Tiff. I thought one of the best parts of the entire book were the scenes that showcased how much they loved and cared for one another. The action scenes, in all honesty, came across as slightly over the top and rather campy. They go on for several chapters at a time, and while the chapters are pretty brief, it just got a little tiring to read after a little while. It really made me focus on when he wasn’t involved in fighting and those were the parts of the book I liked the most.
If you like Jim Butcher’s Harry Dresden or Kevin Hearne’s The Iron Druid Chronicles, then you may like Deacon Chalk. There’s humor, action, and all sorts of bizarre monsters. Not to mention weres. There were a great many mention of Weres. Were gorillas, were polar bears, even a brief mention of a were T-Rex. It’s one of those things that struck me a slightly ridiculous, but again, that’s just me. Overall, it was a fun read, but definitely not without its issues.
- Ronnie
The action gets started pretty much right off the bat. Deacon Chalk is having dinner with his girl Tiff, only to be interrupted by witches that go by the name of Wrath of Baphomet. Chaos and violence erupts as the witches attempt to make a bloodbath out of Deacon and the rest of the hapless dinner guests. It is explained that Deacon once got a transfusion of a blood from an Angel, so he’s not quite human, and a lot tougher to kill than most mortals. The author manages to work in details from earlier books, so that if you’re just tuning in, you’re not left behind. He does this well and all throughout the book.
When Deacon comes to after the fight, he meets Special Agent Silas Heck from the Occult Crimes Investigation Division. Suspicious is Deacon’s middle name, well, it’s not really, but it should be. He’s pretty much coerced into working with the federal agent after being shown footage of the carnage that took place with the witches from the Wrath of Baphomet. The feds want to make the witches disappear and Deacon is their best bet. During the aftermath of the fight, Deacon learns one of his friends has been keeping a pretty big secret from him, and this secret is what the witches were after.
Like many urban fantasy protagonists, Deacon comes with a tragic past that continually haunts him, but he’s worked at moving on, with the help of his new girlfriend Tiff. I thought one of the best parts of the entire book were the scenes that showcased how much they loved and cared for one another. The action scenes, in all honesty, came across as slightly over the top and rather campy. They go on for several chapters at a time, and while the chapters are pretty brief, it just got a little tiring to read after a little while. It really made me focus on when he wasn’t involved in fighting and those were the parts of the book I liked the most.
If you like Jim Butcher’s Harry Dresden or Kevin Hearne’s The Iron Druid Chronicles, then you may like Deacon Chalk. There’s humor, action, and all sorts of bizarre monsters. Not to mention weres. There were a great many mention of Weres. Were gorillas, were polar bears, even a brief mention of a were T-Rex. It’s one of those things that struck me a slightly ridiculous, but again, that’s just me. Overall, it was a fun read, but definitely not without its issues.
- Ronnie
July 22, 2014
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Deacon Chalk and his team must face a trio of witches who will hurt anyone who gets in the way of their plans and it is up to Deacon to stop them before they hurt too many people.
Opening Sentence: I should have known.
The Review:
Deacon Chalk has fought the occult ever since his wife and kids were killed by a psycho trying to bring a demon into our world. Now to save were-dog triplets he must face off against a trio of witches who will destroy anyone who stands in the way of their plans. With the help of his friends Deacon takes on the witches multiple times, but does he succeed in stopping them before their demonic plans are complete?
I have to say this is not a book I would have picked up for myself, but I do have to say it was better than I expected. I enjoy books featuring the occult or anything supernatural, but I have never read one that featured a male lead character. This was the hard part for me. Especially, the parts of the book that were very detailed in their gruesomeness. Also, the parts where Deacon talks about how hot he thinks his one-eyed girlfriend looks. I personally have a hard time picturing that.
Once I got over this though the storyline was well written and I actually enjoyed it for the most part. One of the best parts was that even though this was not the first book in the series and I have never read any of the others I could understand what was going on. This made it so I could relate to the characters and could sympathize when things did not go the way they wanted them to. I wanted to see Deacon and his friends succeed and rescue the boys and the world from the evil the witches were trying to create. Another thing I liked was a reference to one of my favorite series. I love the Anita Blake series and in this book the author, James R. Tuck, mentions this series and acts like she is a real person that Deacon knows. I find that to be really cool.
I personally will probably never read another of these books because I prefer a female lead but I did like this book. I do recommend this to women who do not mind a male lead and definitely to men who love the supernatural and the occult. Also to anyone who does not mind a bit of gore. This book is not for those who have a weak stomach.
Notable Scene:
A wide smear of blood started on the wall next to the ladies’ room. It wiped along the glassed-in movie posters for six or seven feet before turning sharply up, climbing the wall, and spilling onto the ceiling tiles.
It looked like a psychotic Jackson Pollock mural.
FTC Advisory: Kensington provided me with a copy of Blood and Magick. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Deacon Chalk and his team must face a trio of witches who will hurt anyone who gets in the way of their plans and it is up to Deacon to stop them before they hurt too many people.
Opening Sentence: I should have known.
The Review:
Deacon Chalk has fought the occult ever since his wife and kids were killed by a psycho trying to bring a demon into our world. Now to save were-dog triplets he must face off against a trio of witches who will destroy anyone who stands in the way of their plans. With the help of his friends Deacon takes on the witches multiple times, but does he succeed in stopping them before their demonic plans are complete?
I have to say this is not a book I would have picked up for myself, but I do have to say it was better than I expected. I enjoy books featuring the occult or anything supernatural, but I have never read one that featured a male lead character. This was the hard part for me. Especially, the parts of the book that were very detailed in their gruesomeness. Also, the parts where Deacon talks about how hot he thinks his one-eyed girlfriend looks. I personally have a hard time picturing that.
Once I got over this though the storyline was well written and I actually enjoyed it for the most part. One of the best parts was that even though this was not the first book in the series and I have never read any of the others I could understand what was going on. This made it so I could relate to the characters and could sympathize when things did not go the way they wanted them to. I wanted to see Deacon and his friends succeed and rescue the boys and the world from the evil the witches were trying to create. Another thing I liked was a reference to one of my favorite series. I love the Anita Blake series and in this book the author, James R. Tuck, mentions this series and acts like she is a real person that Deacon knows. I find that to be really cool.
I personally will probably never read another of these books because I prefer a female lead but I did like this book. I do recommend this to women who do not mind a male lead and definitely to men who love the supernatural and the occult. Also to anyone who does not mind a bit of gore. This book is not for those who have a weak stomach.
Notable Scene:
A wide smear of blood started on the wall next to the ladies’ room. It wiped along the glassed-in movie posters for six or seven feet before turning sharply up, climbing the wall, and spilling onto the ceiling tiles.
It looked like a psychotic Jackson Pollock mural.
FTC Advisory: Kensington provided me with a copy of Blood and Magick. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
July 30, 2013
4.5
Book source ~ Many thanks to Kensington for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Deacon Chalk is an Occult Bounty Hunter taking care of the monsters so they don’t eat people. When a trio of witches comes to town and wants the Blood of the Trinity, the special blood belonging to mixed shapeshifter triplets, all hell breaks loose. The triplets should never have been born with a werelion for a dad and a weredog for a mom, but there they are, weirder than all get out and apparently badly wanted by the Wrath of Baphomet, no doubt for nepharious purposes that will be very horrific for humans. It’s up to Deacon and his crew to stop them, but he never suspects the evil selfishness hidden amongst those he trusts.
Once again James R. Tuck starts a book off by burning rubber off the starting line roaring at high speeds down the stretch and around the curves until crossing the finishing line tires squealing and smoke billowing up as the car does a 360 in a fancy flourishing end. In other words, don’t blink or you might miss some action.
Deacon gets some help from an unexpected quarter in the form of a government agent. Whether it will prove to be a continuous positive help remains to be seen in future books. Personally, I like Agent Heck and hope he sticks around. There is also loss and betrayal in this book. I think Deacon made a mistake when dealing with Larson and I have a feeling that is going to come back and bite him in the ass big time.
One thing that kept this from being a 5 star for me is Deacon himself. He is dead set against magic, calling it all bad yet he doesn’t hesitate to use the magic in himself when the situation calls for it. Everything isn’t always black and white and I’d like to see Deacon realize that or risk being a hypocrite. He admits that not all shapeshifters are bad, so he needs to take that extra step with magic.
The other thing that kept this from being a 5 star is the repetition. It’s easy to see that James R. Tuck is a fan of the Anita Blake series, but I would hate to see Deacon become a one-dimensional character like Anita, have pages and pages of filler about what everyone looks like or what they are wearing, rehash ad nauseum every detail that happened in previous books or have the wheels fall off the plot in the middle of the story. I’m begging Tuck not to fall into the pattern that LKH has fallen into because I already love Deacon. I’m heart-broken over the crappy writing LKH has churned out recently and I certainly don’t want to see the same from Tuck. So far, so good though. I’m still 100% with Deacon and looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Book source ~ Many thanks to Kensington for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Deacon Chalk is an Occult Bounty Hunter taking care of the monsters so they don’t eat people. When a trio of witches comes to town and wants the Blood of the Trinity, the special blood belonging to mixed shapeshifter triplets, all hell breaks loose. The triplets should never have been born with a werelion for a dad and a weredog for a mom, but there they are, weirder than all get out and apparently badly wanted by the Wrath of Baphomet, no doubt for nepharious purposes that will be very horrific for humans. It’s up to Deacon and his crew to stop them, but he never suspects the evil selfishness hidden amongst those he trusts.
Once again James R. Tuck starts a book off by burning rubber off the starting line roaring at high speeds down the stretch and around the curves until crossing the finishing line tires squealing and smoke billowing up as the car does a 360 in a fancy flourishing end. In other words, don’t blink or you might miss some action.
Deacon gets some help from an unexpected quarter in the form of a government agent. Whether it will prove to be a continuous positive help remains to be seen in future books. Personally, I like Agent Heck and hope he sticks around. There is also loss and betrayal in this book. I think Deacon made a mistake when dealing with Larson and I have a feeling that is going to come back and bite him in the ass big time.
One thing that kept this from being a 5 star for me is Deacon himself. He is dead set against magic, calling it all bad yet he doesn’t hesitate to use the magic in himself when the situation calls for it. Everything isn’t always black and white and I’d like to see Deacon realize that or risk being a hypocrite. He admits that not all shapeshifters are bad, so he needs to take that extra step with magic.
The other thing that kept this from being a 5 star is the repetition. It’s easy to see that James R. Tuck is a fan of the Anita Blake series, but I would hate to see Deacon become a one-dimensional character like Anita, have pages and pages of filler about what everyone looks like or what they are wearing, rehash ad nauseum every detail that happened in previous books or have the wheels fall off the plot in the middle of the story. I’m begging Tuck not to fall into the pattern that LKH has fallen into because I already love Deacon. I’m heart-broken over the crappy writing LKH has churned out recently and I certainly don’t want to see the same from Tuck. So far, so good though. I’m still 100% with Deacon and looking forward to seeing what happens next.
August 21, 2013
���
*opens mouth and raises one finger*
Ahhh���.
*shuts mouth and lowers finger*
���
I���m flummoxed.
Well not really flummoxed, just not quite sure how to review this title.
And really, that���s all because of gender roles.
Wait, hear me out.
See, UF stories with male leads are not the norm. And because of this every male protagonist will be compared to Dresden. Or Drezzy as I like to call him, much to my husbands eternal annoyance.
The thing is��� while the book has a similar feel to a Dresden novel, it���s also not. I mean, it���s also a bit like an Anita Blake novel, but not. If anything, it���s more like an action movie in text format.
You know, but not���
Basically, you���ve got a kick ass action hero with snappy one liners who kills monsters in an urban fantasy world.
One I couldn���t really get a handle on, because every time I thought I had things nailed down a rug was pulled out from under me.
Don���t ask me why I was standing on such a tidy stack of rugs, I couldn���t tell you know, but evidently I was.
I would think that an event was being foreshadowed in a very heavy way and BLAM! rug pulled and it turns out that was a red herring to disguise a similar, and equally heart wrenching, plot twist.
They mention were-t-rex and I���m all ���TOO FAR SIR!��� but I continue to read (because I always continue to read) and there���s a *spoiler* fighting a demon possessed *spoiler* and I���m all NOT FAR ENOUGH!! (at the loss of another rug)
To make things even more confusing, and rug thieving, I hadn���t read the first two books.
I���m undecided if this was a pro or con. So much of the previous plots were rehashed in this one, it might have gotten irritating. Or maybe they weren���t in previous books and the story was being told via Family Guy style flash backs that are anecdotal but have nothing to do with anything.
I don���t know, because I���m a dumbass who requests ARCs for books in the middle of the series.
In the end, I���m recommending the book to all UF lovers who enjoy an action filled romp. And I���m going to go back and read the first two novels, even with the sucker punch I know is coming.
3.5 Stars
(The cliffnotes version)
This is not Dresden
I totally did not see that coming. I was too busy watching Mr. Tuck wave his left hand to notice the right one was about to shank me.
Someone please explain to me a were-t-rex. And use puppets if possible.
His author image on goodreads scares me a little bit.
*opens mouth and raises one finger*
Ahhh���.
*shuts mouth and lowers finger*
���
I���m flummoxed.
Well not really flummoxed, just not quite sure how to review this title.
And really, that���s all because of gender roles.
Wait, hear me out.
See, UF stories with male leads are not the norm. And because of this every male protagonist will be compared to Dresden. Or Drezzy as I like to call him, much to my husbands eternal annoyance.
The thing is��� while the book has a similar feel to a Dresden novel, it���s also not. I mean, it���s also a bit like an Anita Blake novel, but not. If anything, it���s more like an action movie in text format.
You know, but not���
Basically, you���ve got a kick ass action hero with snappy one liners who kills monsters in an urban fantasy world.
One I couldn���t really get a handle on, because every time I thought I had things nailed down a rug was pulled out from under me.
Don���t ask me why I was standing on such a tidy stack of rugs, I couldn���t tell you know, but evidently I was.
I would think that an event was being foreshadowed in a very heavy way and BLAM! rug pulled and it turns out that was a red herring to disguise a similar, and equally heart wrenching, plot twist.
They mention were-t-rex and I���m all ���TOO FAR SIR!��� but I continue to read (because I always continue to read) and there���s a *spoiler* fighting a demon possessed *spoiler* and I���m all NOT FAR ENOUGH!! (at the loss of another rug)
To make things even more confusing, and rug thieving, I hadn���t read the first two books.
I���m undecided if this was a pro or con. So much of the previous plots were rehashed in this one, it might have gotten irritating. Or maybe they weren���t in previous books and the story was being told via Family Guy style flash backs that are anecdotal but have nothing to do with anything.
I don���t know, because I���m a dumbass who requests ARCs for books in the middle of the series.
In the end, I���m recommending the book to all UF lovers who enjoy an action filled romp. And I���m going to go back and read the first two novels, even with the sucker punch I know is coming.
3.5 Stars
(The cliffnotes version)
This is not Dresden
I totally did not see that coming. I was too busy watching Mr. Tuck wave his left hand to notice the right one was about to shank me.
Someone please explain to me a were-t-rex. And use puppets if possible.
His author image on goodreads scares me a little bit.
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