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Vigilati #2
Blood in the Valley
The daughter of a Las Vegas hustler, Raven Sabatier grew up trusting nothing and no one-she doesn't even trust herself to stay in one place for longer than a minute. When her quest to find out the secrets of her past leads her to the mountains of North Carolina, she's set on a collision course with the one man she thought she'd never see again. In Appalachia consulting on an archeological dig, Anthropologist Dr. Drew Deveraux comes face to face with the indomitable beauty who broke into his apartment a year ago, tilting his carefully cultivated world on its axis. Engaged in a fight with their demons, both imagined and real, the last thing either of them expected to find was love. Together, they must unravel the mystery of Raven's past and her connection with an ancient race of witches, in order to save their future-and all of the souls hanging in the balance.
- GenresParanormal
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2013
1 person is currently reading
305 people want to read
About the author
J.K. Hogan
21 books298 followersJ.K. Hogan is a pan/demi nerd living in North Carolina with her husband, two sons, and their pets. She’s been telling stories for as long as she can remember, beginning with writing character lists and storylines for her toys growing up. In addition to being an author, J.K. is an autist, an artist, and an activist, with a special place in her heart for Star Trek. When she isn’t writing, J.K. can be found designing book covers at Wicked Pixel Designs, creating fiber art and supplies at Earthbound Fiber Arts, watching Hurricanes Hockey and, of course, reading!
For more information, visit www.jkhogan.com
For more information, visit www.jkhogan.com
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 26, 2013
This is a well-thought-out story populated with a cast of characters who really care about each other.
Read full review in the 2013 Dec/Jan Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2013 Dec/Jan Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
June 5, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/05/27/...
Publisher: Sapphire Star Publishing
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the publisher
The daughter of a Las Vegas hustler, Raven Sabatier grew up trusting nothing and no one—she doesn’t even trust herself to stay in one place for longer than a minute. When her quest to find out the secrets of her past leads her to the mountains of North Carolina, she’s set on a collision course with the one man she thought she’d never see again.
In Appalachia consulting on an archeological dig, Anthropologist Dr. Drew Deveraux comes face to face with the indomitable beauty who broke into his apartment a year ago, tilting his carefully cultivated world on its axis.
Engaged in a fight with their demons, both imagined and real, the last thing either of them expected to find was love. Together, they must unravel the mystery of Raven’s past and her connection with an ancient race of witches, in order to save their future—and all of the souls hanging in the balance.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
I was on twitter chortling with joy one afternoon because my sister gave me carte blanche to buy books for her kindle using her account. When I mentioned my reason for happiness and that I had to make sure I wasn’t missing anything, Lillie_80 who among her many other book related things, reviews for Romance Reader at Heart Novel Thoughts & Book Talk started mentioning titles she thought I should include. One of them was Fire on the Island Book 1 of the Vigilati series. I took a look at it and after reading the blurb I added it to my wishlist. As a result when we received a request to consider Blood in the Valley I eagerly accepted.
I did not have a chance to read Fire on the Island first but Hogan did a good job of providing back-story throughout Blood in the Valley that I was able to pick up the gist of the paranormal thread rather easily. The world that Hogan has created is fascinating. I liked the inclusion of magic, shape-shifters, ancient languages, and studious professors who were not afraid to get dirty. Hogan’s female characters also added a lot of depth and strength to the story and therefore increased my enjoyment.
Raven was a lot of fun to read. She trusted no one and was used to running a con to achieve her ends. Even her day job involved using skills she learned to break the law not uphold it. Raven’s habits served her well with most people she encountered her habits served her well but when she became involved with the Vigilati she had to learn to trust someone or risk losing everything she ever cared about. I loved her attitude, how she kept starting to run but never quit on a job. I also enjoyed how she kept trying to shake Drew’s composure but only succeeded when she wasn’t trying. I also enjoyed her stubbornness and loyalty towards those she felt deserved it.
Drew was also a lot of fun. He had some unexpected depths that reminded me a bit of Indiana Jones. His ability to go from eminent professor/scholar to down and dirty or sulking because someone figured out a puzzle before he did was very amusing. I loved his dedication to his friends and how determined he was to protect not just them but everyone he was around. One of the other things I liked about his character is that he didn’t play the expert at fighting/brawling and instead provided some of the brains of the group. I thought that was a pleasant change from the majority of what I read.
While I enjoyed reading Blood in the Valley I do have some lingering questions that might have been answered in Fire in the Valley or might not be answered until the next installment. I am very curious about the shape-shifters, this third family of ancient witches, and what the final battle/showdown will be like. Based on what I saw in Blood in the Valley it is going to require the assistance of the previous heroes and heroines.
I warned Lillie today that I was blaming her for my new series addiction. I will be going back to get and enjoy Fire on the Island while I wait for the next installment. Hogan has writing a very satisfying second book in the Vigilati series and created a world that captivated me. I found myself resenting every interruption while I was reading because I wanted to see what was going to happen next, with the romantic developments, the archeological dig, and the paranormal aspects. Hogan struck a wonderful balance between the different elements that satisfied both my romance reader and my paranormal/fantasy reader. Thank you Lillie for your twitter recommendation.
I give Blood in the Valley a B+
Publisher: Sapphire Star Publishing
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the publisher
The daughter of a Las Vegas hustler, Raven Sabatier grew up trusting nothing and no one—she doesn’t even trust herself to stay in one place for longer than a minute. When her quest to find out the secrets of her past leads her to the mountains of North Carolina, she’s set on a collision course with the one man she thought she’d never see again.
In Appalachia consulting on an archeological dig, Anthropologist Dr. Drew Deveraux comes face to face with the indomitable beauty who broke into his apartment a year ago, tilting his carefully cultivated world on its axis.
Engaged in a fight with their demons, both imagined and real, the last thing either of them expected to find was love. Together, they must unravel the mystery of Raven’s past and her connection with an ancient race of witches, in order to save their future—and all of the souls hanging in the balance.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
I was on twitter chortling with joy one afternoon because my sister gave me carte blanche to buy books for her kindle using her account. When I mentioned my reason for happiness and that I had to make sure I wasn’t missing anything, Lillie_80 who among her many other book related things, reviews for Romance Reader at Heart Novel Thoughts & Book Talk started mentioning titles she thought I should include. One of them was Fire on the Island Book 1 of the Vigilati series. I took a look at it and after reading the blurb I added it to my wishlist. As a result when we received a request to consider Blood in the Valley I eagerly accepted.
I did not have a chance to read Fire on the Island first but Hogan did a good job of providing back-story throughout Blood in the Valley that I was able to pick up the gist of the paranormal thread rather easily. The world that Hogan has created is fascinating. I liked the inclusion of magic, shape-shifters, ancient languages, and studious professors who were not afraid to get dirty. Hogan’s female characters also added a lot of depth and strength to the story and therefore increased my enjoyment.
Raven was a lot of fun to read. She trusted no one and was used to running a con to achieve her ends. Even her day job involved using skills she learned to break the law not uphold it. Raven’s habits served her well with most people she encountered her habits served her well but when she became involved with the Vigilati she had to learn to trust someone or risk losing everything she ever cared about. I loved her attitude, how she kept starting to run but never quit on a job. I also enjoyed how she kept trying to shake Drew’s composure but only succeeded when she wasn’t trying. I also enjoyed her stubbornness and loyalty towards those she felt deserved it.
Drew was also a lot of fun. He had some unexpected depths that reminded me a bit of Indiana Jones. His ability to go from eminent professor/scholar to down and dirty or sulking because someone figured out a puzzle before he did was very amusing. I loved his dedication to his friends and how determined he was to protect not just them but everyone he was around. One of the other things I liked about his character is that he didn’t play the expert at fighting/brawling and instead provided some of the brains of the group. I thought that was a pleasant change from the majority of what I read.
While I enjoyed reading Blood in the Valley I do have some lingering questions that might have been answered in Fire in the Valley or might not be answered until the next installment. I am very curious about the shape-shifters, this third family of ancient witches, and what the final battle/showdown will be like. Based on what I saw in Blood in the Valley it is going to require the assistance of the previous heroes and heroines.
I warned Lillie today that I was blaming her for my new series addiction. I will be going back to get and enjoy Fire on the Island while I wait for the next installment. Hogan has writing a very satisfying second book in the Vigilati series and created a world that captivated me. I found myself resenting every interruption while I was reading because I wanted to see what was going to happen next, with the romantic developments, the archeological dig, and the paranormal aspects. Hogan struck a wonderful balance between the different elements that satisfied both my romance reader and my paranormal/fantasy reader. Thank you Lillie for your twitter recommendation.
I give Blood in the Valley a B+
May 30, 2013
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I was given a free copy of the book from the author for an honest review.
Ray Sabatier is a man that has had a rough life. He grew up with an abusive father and a psychotic step-mother. His father was never around when he was growing up. He was always out drinking and whoring, leaving Ray with his step-mother. Ray knew he couldn't stay there or he would end up dead. His dad would he up killing him from one of his beatings or Ray would kill himself. Ray left home and being on the road was harder than he thought it would be. He never had enough money but there was always drugs and booze. Ray started stealing, picking pickets, running scams to get the money he need for his next fix. Ray never wanted to have a family and especially not any kids that would grow up to be like him or have the life he had growing up. He was speechless when some lady showed up on his door step one day with his four year old daughter who had no name. Her mother died before she could give her a name. Ray named her Raven. Ray taught her what he knew about breaking and entering, stealing and not trust anyone not even him.
Drew is an anthropologist and professor at Tulane University. He is in Blowing Rock, North Carolina on an archaeological dig when he runs into Raven. He knows right away that she is the one who broke into his apartment last year. He remembers her so well because of her eyes and she has a good right hook. She almost knocked him out, he saw stars. Drew knows that she is a witch like Isla but he doesn't think she knows this. He knows he can't tell her a lot or he will scare her off. Drew calls his best friend Jere and tells him about Raven. Jere and his new wife Isla are now hunting people like Raven and trying to help them. Isla found out last year that she was a witch and a very powerful one at that. She knows what is like not knowing what you are and then finding out at the wrong time is like. Isla is a very sweet person and only wants to help people and do what is right.
Raven is having feelings for Drew that she has never had for anyone else in her life. Being taught by her father Ray to never trust anyone or let them in she is having problems with her feelings. She is very jealous of Drew. If a woman including Isla whom she knows is a very good friend of hers hugs Drew Raven gets very upset. She gets upset when Drew is upset. She doesn't know what or how to deal with these feelings she has never felt them before. In the past when she thought a guy was getting to close she would get on her bike and take off leaving the guy behind forever. Raven knows that Drew is not the type of guy that just plays around or would play with her feelings. But for some reason she can't run away this time.
Drew is having the same problems only somewhat in a different way or for different reasons. Drew can't stand to be away from Raven for any amount of time. And when he is with her he is always aware of her. She can arouse him just by looking at her or her looking at him. All she has to do is walk in the room and Drew goes off in lala land. Both of them are in love with each other and I think everyone knows it but them.
Jere and Isla from book #1 have arrived in the States to help Raven figure out whom or what she is and to teach her how to use her powers. Raven not ever trusting anyone is not sure about them but they are friends with Drew so that helps. But she can also feel Isla's energy and feels comfortable with her although she still doesn't trust her own feelings yet. Raven is afraid of getting hurt. Her father taught her this all her life. He taught her that everyone including himself will eventually end up hurting her and leaving. The only person she can ever count on is herself.
I love reading anything paranormal especially if witches are involved. I love reading about their magic and what they can do with their magic powers. Blood in the Valley's witches are kind of different than other witches that I have read about. But hey I loved that they were different. If you like a good book about witches, demons and hot dudes then Blood in the Valley would be just the book you need to read.
Ray Sabatier is a man that has had a rough life. He grew up with an abusive father and a psychotic step-mother. His father was never around when he was growing up. He was always out drinking and whoring, leaving Ray with his step-mother. Ray knew he couldn't stay there or he would end up dead. His dad would he up killing him from one of his beatings or Ray would kill himself. Ray left home and being on the road was harder than he thought it would be. He never had enough money but there was always drugs and booze. Ray started stealing, picking pickets, running scams to get the money he need for his next fix. Ray never wanted to have a family and especially not any kids that would grow up to be like him or have the life he had growing up. He was speechless when some lady showed up on his door step one day with his four year old daughter who had no name. Her mother died before she could give her a name. Ray named her Raven. Ray taught her what he knew about breaking and entering, stealing and not trust anyone not even him.
Drew is an anthropologist and professor at Tulane University. He is in Blowing Rock, North Carolina on an archaeological dig when he runs into Raven. He knows right away that she is the one who broke into his apartment last year. He remembers her so well because of her eyes and she has a good right hook. She almost knocked him out, he saw stars. Drew knows that she is a witch like Isla but he doesn't think she knows this. He knows he can't tell her a lot or he will scare her off. Drew calls his best friend Jere and tells him about Raven. Jere and his new wife Isla are now hunting people like Raven and trying to help them. Isla found out last year that she was a witch and a very powerful one at that. She knows what is like not knowing what you are and then finding out at the wrong time is like. Isla is a very sweet person and only wants to help people and do what is right.
Raven is having feelings for Drew that she has never had for anyone else in her life. Being taught by her father Ray to never trust anyone or let them in she is having problems with her feelings. She is very jealous of Drew. If a woman including Isla whom she knows is a very good friend of hers hugs Drew Raven gets very upset. She gets upset when Drew is upset. She doesn't know what or how to deal with these feelings she has never felt them before. In the past when she thought a guy was getting to close she would get on her bike and take off leaving the guy behind forever. Raven knows that Drew is not the type of guy that just plays around or would play with her feelings. But for some reason she can't run away this time.
Drew is having the same problems only somewhat in a different way or for different reasons. Drew can't stand to be away from Raven for any amount of time. And when he is with her he is always aware of her. She can arouse him just by looking at her or her looking at him. All she has to do is walk in the room and Drew goes off in lala land. Both of them are in love with each other and I think everyone knows it but them.
Jere and Isla from book #1 have arrived in the States to help Raven figure out whom or what she is and to teach her how to use her powers. Raven not ever trusting anyone is not sure about them but they are friends with Drew so that helps. But she can also feel Isla's energy and feels comfortable with her although she still doesn't trust her own feelings yet. Raven is afraid of getting hurt. Her father taught her this all her life. He taught her that everyone including himself will eventually end up hurting her and leaving. The only person she can ever count on is herself.
I love reading anything paranormal especially if witches are involved. I love reading about their magic and what they can do with their magic powers. Blood in the Valley's witches are kind of different than other witches that I have read about. But hey I loved that they were different. If you like a good book about witches, demons and hot dudes then Blood in the Valley would be just the book you need to read.
May 22, 2013
review originally posted http://thebooktart.com/book-review/th...
Blood In The Valley is the second book in J.K. Hogan’s Vigilati Series. It’s an exciting paranormal romance with passion, heart, and humor. The characters are complicated and relatable and my emotions were all bound up for their journey. I couldn’t put this book down!
I love the world building in these books. There are demons, magic, shapeshifters, and witches oh my. The Vigilati are part of an ancient race of witches, the Bruixi, and their line is gifted with power to guard the gateways between the human world and the spirit world. They are supposed to stand in the gap and stop the auchrim, aka demons, from overrunning the earth. Unfortunately there aren’t many Vigilati left and the surviving descendents have no idea of their responsibility and purpose in the coming battles.
Raven is the heroine and I absolutely positively loved her! Raven kicks butt! She was raised with a dad who had addiction problems and though he loved her, she couldn’t depend on him. He taught her to run a con and not to trust anyone. She is very guarded and independent and fierce! She has always known she was different especially after a tattoo like mark appeared on her skin when she was eight. She’s been searching for answers to who she is and what her powers mean.
Her search leads her to Drew. Yay! I enjoyed the glimpses into Drew from the first book, Fire On The Island, and was eager for more of him. Mmmm He’s delicious. Dr. Andrew Deveraux is an anthropologist and professor and he’s been helping his friends investigate the race of Bruixi. I got a kick out of their first meeting when Raven tries to liberate a book from his possession. :P
The chemistry between the two is hot and burns off the pages …as does the heart. I loved seeing them let down their guards and open up. Raven is so wary of trusting anyone and it’s a stretch for her to work with Drew. He helps unravel the mystery of who Raven is and unravel the knots around Raven’s heart. *sigh* I so loved how he treated her and that he saw HER. She didn’t need to put on an act, she could be her damaged, wounded, feisty self. They both have to learn trust because he has pretty big baggage himself. Watching their relationship deepen was beautiful.
I was delighted to revisit with characters from the first adventure! Isla, Jeremiah, Marduk and Brynna are all involved in the fight against the demons with Raven and Drew. Speaking of fights, those scenes read like watching a movie! They were very visual. I also love the snark and pop culture references. This story made me laugh as well as sigh…. I want more!
A few of my fav lines…
♥ She’d only met the guy twice, and fifty percent of those encounters had ended in her punching him.
♥ She’d been distracted. Distracted by just how good it felt to be held by someone, by the power she felt at having caused such a reaction in him.
♥ “I meant what I said before, Raven. The real you is good enough. Don’t ever feel like you need to be anything different than who you really are around me”
I love paranormal romance. If you’re like me and enjoy romances with some magic and mystery then dive into the Vigilati series and get swept up in the passion and power of J.K.’s storytelling. Then you’ll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the next installment too. :)
((hugs))) Kat
The Queen of Tarts
♦ ebook provided for review for my honest opinion.
Blood In The Valley is the second book in J.K. Hogan’s Vigilati Series. It’s an exciting paranormal romance with passion, heart, and humor. The characters are complicated and relatable and my emotions were all bound up for their journey. I couldn’t put this book down!
I love the world building in these books. There are demons, magic, shapeshifters, and witches oh my. The Vigilati are part of an ancient race of witches, the Bruixi, and their line is gifted with power to guard the gateways between the human world and the spirit world. They are supposed to stand in the gap and stop the auchrim, aka demons, from overrunning the earth. Unfortunately there aren’t many Vigilati left and the surviving descendents have no idea of their responsibility and purpose in the coming battles.
Raven is the heroine and I absolutely positively loved her! Raven kicks butt! She was raised with a dad who had addiction problems and though he loved her, she couldn’t depend on him. He taught her to run a con and not to trust anyone. She is very guarded and independent and fierce! She has always known she was different especially after a tattoo like mark appeared on her skin when she was eight. She’s been searching for answers to who she is and what her powers mean.
Her search leads her to Drew. Yay! I enjoyed the glimpses into Drew from the first book, Fire On The Island, and was eager for more of him. Mmmm He’s delicious. Dr. Andrew Deveraux is an anthropologist and professor and he’s been helping his friends investigate the race of Bruixi. I got a kick out of their first meeting when Raven tries to liberate a book from his possession. :P
The chemistry between the two is hot and burns off the pages …as does the heart. I loved seeing them let down their guards and open up. Raven is so wary of trusting anyone and it’s a stretch for her to work with Drew. He helps unravel the mystery of who Raven is and unravel the knots around Raven’s heart. *sigh* I so loved how he treated her and that he saw HER. She didn’t need to put on an act, she could be her damaged, wounded, feisty self. They both have to learn trust because he has pretty big baggage himself. Watching their relationship deepen was beautiful.
I was delighted to revisit with characters from the first adventure! Isla, Jeremiah, Marduk and Brynna are all involved in the fight against the demons with Raven and Drew. Speaking of fights, those scenes read like watching a movie! They were very visual. I also love the snark and pop culture references. This story made me laugh as well as sigh…. I want more!
A few of my fav lines…
♥ She’d only met the guy twice, and fifty percent of those encounters had ended in her punching him.
♥ She’d been distracted. Distracted by just how good it felt to be held by someone, by the power she felt at having caused such a reaction in him.
♥ “I meant what I said before, Raven. The real you is good enough. Don’t ever feel like you need to be anything different than who you really are around me”
I love paranormal romance. If you’re like me and enjoy romances with some magic and mystery then dive into the Vigilati series and get swept up in the passion and power of J.K.’s storytelling. Then you’ll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the next installment too. :)
((hugs))) Kat
The Queen of Tarts
♦ ebook provided for review for my honest opinion.
May 30, 2013
A follow-up to the highly rated book Fire on the Island, this second book in The Vigilati Series is making its mark on today’s contemporary paranormal market. I have to say, having been given this book in return for an honest review, that I have not read the first book and will be doing so quite soon. Yes, that’s just how good this book is and what a great writer that I was able to jump into the second book without hesitation.
Blood in the Valley take place in the mountains of North Carolina. The others descriptions brought back fond memories of when I had lived in that state nearly two decades ago. My oldest daughter was born in NC and as I read I could hear her little girl accent ringing in my thoughts. The main female character, Raven, is an independent woman who is trying to learn more about herself and the people she came from. Never having known her mother, she was raised by a con father who barely knew her mother other than a weekend they had spent together and who didn’t even know about her until she was thrust upon his doorstep at the tender age of four. She has abilities but is unsure just the extent of what her capabilities are. Now comes Drew, a man who knows of the mystical world of witches, demons and shapeshifters. He has knowledge and connections with those that can help her. The two of them together make quite the sizzling team and as you dive further into the conflicts you have the pleasure of seeing their relationship shape to another level and the paranormal side of the story soars and surrounds the reader with an energy all its own.
I found this book to be a page turner. I was instantly sucked into the story and couldn’t pull myself away. The descriptions were clear and well balanced as was the story. I could feel the atmosphere of the bar as Drew stepped through the doors, and I could place myself in the scenery of the storyline with ease. I felt like I was right there with the characters throughout the book.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good contemporary paranormal story. The romance isn’t too heavy to cover up or distract the reader from the main ideas and the character building is one that other authors should take notice of.
Oh, and one last thing. I LOVE this cover! It’s one of the most eye-catching and hottest covers I’ve seen in a while.
Blood in the Valley take place in the mountains of North Carolina. The others descriptions brought back fond memories of when I had lived in that state nearly two decades ago. My oldest daughter was born in NC and as I read I could hear her little girl accent ringing in my thoughts. The main female character, Raven, is an independent woman who is trying to learn more about herself and the people she came from. Never having known her mother, she was raised by a con father who barely knew her mother other than a weekend they had spent together and who didn’t even know about her until she was thrust upon his doorstep at the tender age of four. She has abilities but is unsure just the extent of what her capabilities are. Now comes Drew, a man who knows of the mystical world of witches, demons and shapeshifters. He has knowledge and connections with those that can help her. The two of them together make quite the sizzling team and as you dive further into the conflicts you have the pleasure of seeing their relationship shape to another level and the paranormal side of the story soars and surrounds the reader with an energy all its own.
I found this book to be a page turner. I was instantly sucked into the story and couldn’t pull myself away. The descriptions were clear and well balanced as was the story. I could feel the atmosphere of the bar as Drew stepped through the doors, and I could place myself in the scenery of the storyline with ease. I felt like I was right there with the characters throughout the book.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good contemporary paranormal story. The romance isn’t too heavy to cover up or distract the reader from the main ideas and the character building is one that other authors should take notice of.
Oh, and one last thing. I LOVE this cover! It’s one of the most eye-catching and hottest covers I’ve seen in a while.
May 7, 2013
The Vigilati series continues with Raven. Former con woman/grifter, she's taken her special skills and went legit but still doesn't always play on the side of angels. After failing to steal a book from Drew Deveraux, she continues her search for answers about her "gift" until fate puts her on another collision course with the anthropologist. This time, she can't run away. Drew can give her what she needs but first she'll have to do something she's never done; depend on someone else. As Raven and Drew both fight to keep a physical attraction from turning into more, the forces of evil are gathering and Raven, Drew, and their friends must work together to keep the world safe.
I was a big fan of Fire on the Island, book 1 in the Vigilati series, and Blood in the Valley was even better. Raven was a perfectly imperfect heroine and one I loved from the first chapter. And Drew gave me the happy sighs. A slightly geeky Cajun determined to get his girl? Yes, please. But my favorite thing about this series is that is really is a girl's fight. The heroines are on the front line in the good vs evil war and while the heroes do support and fight beside them, the battle is won or lost based on the heroine's intelligence, strength and courage. There's no sitting around, waiting for the white knight to save the damsel in distress. These damsels save themselves, along with everyone else, thank you very much.
If you are a paranormal fan and haven't picked up this series, you are missing out. I do recommend reading Fire on the Island first because the story arc starts there and there is quite a bit of world building in book 1. There were a few secondary characters left hanging at the end of Blood in the Valley and I can't wait to see where the author takes this series next.
Favorite quote (from Raven's dad)
I was a big fan of Fire on the Island, book 1 in the Vigilati series, and Blood in the Valley was even better. Raven was a perfectly imperfect heroine and one I loved from the first chapter. And Drew gave me the happy sighs. A slightly geeky Cajun determined to get his girl? Yes, please. But my favorite thing about this series is that is really is a girl's fight. The heroines are on the front line in the good vs evil war and while the heroes do support and fight beside them, the battle is won or lost based on the heroine's intelligence, strength and courage. There's no sitting around, waiting for the white knight to save the damsel in distress. These damsels save themselves, along with everyone else, thank you very much.
If you are a paranormal fan and haven't picked up this series, you are missing out. I do recommend reading Fire on the Island first because the story arc starts there and there is quite a bit of world building in book 1. There were a few secondary characters left hanging at the end of Blood in the Valley and I can't wait to see where the author takes this series next.
Favorite quote (from Raven's dad)
"I like you, kid. And as long as you're good to Raven and don't try to change her, we're cool. Thing is, though, that girl was the only thing that kept me going in prison. But I will not hesitate to send myself back there with a murder charge, wrapped up in a pretty little bow, you hurt one hair on her head. Dig?"
May 22, 2013
I really enjoyed the first book in this series: Fire on the Island by J.K. Hogan. I liked the intrigue and the main subject, which is about witch and witchcraft of some sort. Plus, everything is happening in Ireland! YAY!
J.K. Hogan return with this sequel and I was plunge again in a thrilling new ride about the Vigilati, the feradux, the lochrime... every paranormal elements were welcome and well exploited! Raven is a kick-ass character and even if her past and present sucks in a way, she's a fighter and I love strong minded female character!
Dr. Drew was an interesting and intriguing character. He seems to be the sexy male around but I didn't really imagine him like this, but its better this way! He's one of Jeremiah (from the first book and also Isla husband) friend and help him in his quest for Vigilati discovery. I enjoyed the interaction between him and Raven because she's wit and he didn't saw her coming!
I liked the fact that we read about Jeremiah and Isla again but they didn't stole the show. They stood in the background and they were there when they were needed. I enjoyed the fact that Blood in the Valley was totally for and about Raven and Drew.
The ''bad guy'' was also a huge turn on, if I can say it that way, because it wasn't a replica of the first book. I was sure that Blood in the Valley will lead to the same fate as in Fire on the Island that I really didn't saw this one coming so I was grateful for this little surprise!
Page Turner: Yes! It was quite entertaining!
Series: Yes! (Vigilati #2)
Stand Alone: Well, I really think about that and I don't think it would be a good stand-alone. You really should start with the first book, because you'll miss some important aspects from the first book and it's always better to read a series in order!
Hotness: Dr. Drew Deveraux, yes he's a sexy professor!
Proserpine Recommendation: Of course, if you have read the first book, I recommend this book to you, it's a great sequel and Raven is one of my favorite female characters of 2013! I also recommend this series to every Paranormal Romance lovers! Buy-Borrow, TBR-pile!
J.K. Hogan return with this sequel and I was plunge again in a thrilling new ride about the Vigilati, the feradux, the lochrime... every paranormal elements were welcome and well exploited! Raven is a kick-ass character and even if her past and present sucks in a way, she's a fighter and I love strong minded female character!
Dr. Drew was an interesting and intriguing character. He seems to be the sexy male around but I didn't really imagine him like this, but its better this way! He's one of Jeremiah (from the first book and also Isla husband) friend and help him in his quest for Vigilati discovery. I enjoyed the interaction between him and Raven because she's wit and he didn't saw her coming!
I liked the fact that we read about Jeremiah and Isla again but they didn't stole the show. They stood in the background and they were there when they were needed. I enjoyed the fact that Blood in the Valley was totally for and about Raven and Drew.
The ''bad guy'' was also a huge turn on, if I can say it that way, because it wasn't a replica of the first book. I was sure that Blood in the Valley will lead to the same fate as in Fire on the Island that I really didn't saw this one coming so I was grateful for this little surprise!
Page Turner: Yes! It was quite entertaining!
Series: Yes! (Vigilati #2)
Stand Alone: Well, I really think about that and I don't think it would be a good stand-alone. You really should start with the first book, because you'll miss some important aspects from the first book and it's always better to read a series in order!
Hotness: Dr. Drew Deveraux, yes he's a sexy professor!
Proserpine Recommendation: Of course, if you have read the first book, I recommend this book to you, it's a great sequel and Raven is one of my favorite female characters of 2013! I also recommend this series to every Paranormal Romance lovers! Buy-Borrow, TBR-pile!
May 17, 2013
Original review posted along with an interview with J.K. Hogan here: http://wp.me/p2F7sT-1tF
What Iliked loved:
The expansion of the wonderful world J.K Hogan has created, the characters, the action, and the romance .
I have adopted Drew as one of my book boyfriends, he is caring, sweet, vulnerable, damaged, HOT, and most of all: he handled the changes to the world around him (and happening in his life) the way my dream man would.
I have also decided that in my next life, I want to be Raven, she has her own moral code - that you after her upbringing only adds to her charm, she kicks major butt, and she has an amazing capacity for love (even if she won't admit it to herself!).
We also get to peek in on Isla and Jere, Jere's mysterious brother, and even his mom (who helped to raise Drew)! (I also really liked Ray)
The romance was wonderful, showing that two flawed, yet strong characters can overcome their fears and strengthen their weaknesses together.
This series features truly strong women who don't sit back and wait for their men to fix things for them - for me, this is imperative in a Paranormal Romance series that has a female protagonist . You won't find whiny chits who either want someone to fight their battles or who want to know "why me" with the Vigilati Series. These heroines roll with the punches, get back up, acknowledge their weaknesses, kick some major butt , and love their men.
It is no secret that I love PNR, that being said - I have standards and I tend to set the bar rather high. Blood in the Valley not only reached the bar, but bounded right over it! Nothing is better as a reader of PNR than when the author expands the boundaries and rules of that world and makes it believable. And I have to say that by bringing us into her world as the characters learn the rules, Ms Hogan has made every single broken rule and shattered boundary flow naturally with the story.
*FTC Disclosure - I received an ARC of this book for review.
What I
The expansion of the wonderful world J.K Hogan has created, the characters, the action, and the romance .
I have adopted Drew as one of my book boyfriends, he is caring, sweet, vulnerable, damaged, HOT, and most of all: he handled the changes to the world around him (and happening in his life) the way my dream man would.
I have also decided that in my next life, I want to be Raven, she has her own moral code - that you after her upbringing only adds to her charm, she kicks major butt, and she has an amazing capacity for love (even if she won't admit it to herself!).
We also get to peek in on Isla and Jere, Jere's mysterious brother, and even his mom (who helped to raise Drew)! (I also really liked Ray)
The romance was wonderful, showing that two flawed, yet strong characters can overcome their fears and strengthen their weaknesses together.
This series features truly strong women who don't sit back and wait for their men to fix things for them - for me, this is imperative in a Paranormal Romance series that has a female protagonist . You won't find whiny chits who either want someone to fight their battles or who want to know "why me" with the Vigilati Series. These heroines roll with the punches, get back up, acknowledge their weaknesses, kick some major butt , and love their men.
It is no secret that I love PNR, that being said - I have standards and I tend to set the bar rather high. Blood in the Valley not only reached the bar, but bounded right over it! Nothing is better as a reader of PNR than when the author expands the boundaries and rules of that world and makes it believable. And I have to say that by bringing us into her world as the characters learn the rules, Ms Hogan has made every single broken rule and shattered boundary flow naturally with the story.
*FTC Disclosure - I received an ARC of this book for review.
July 15, 2013
Synopsis: "The daughter of a Las Vegas hustler, Raven Sabatier grew up trusting nothing and no one—she doesn’t even trust herself to stay in one place for longer than a minute. When her quest to find out the secrets of her past leads her to the mountains of North Carolina, she’s set on a collision course with the one man she thought she’d never see again.
In Appalachia consulting on an archeological dig, Anthropologist Dr. Drew Deveraux comes face to face with the indomitable beauty who broke into his apartment a year ago, tilting his carefully cultivated world on its axis.
Engaged in a fight with their demons, both imagined and real, the last thing either of them expected to find was love. Together, they must unravel the mystery of Raven’s past and her connection with an ancient race of witches, in order to save their future—and all of the souls hanging in the balance."
My Review: This is the second book in this series. I did enjoy this book but it didn't grab me as much as the first book did. I felt like there was something missing. I still enjoyed the characters (even though a couple of my favorites weren't in this one), but I felt like I didn't get to spend enough time with them individually. I would have liked to get to know Drew more and/or Raven more, but they were always together or with everyone else. I don't think I needed Ray's story to put the pieces together either. I also felt like after reading Fire On the Island, I already knew what was going to happen, there wasn't as much suspense to get my blood racing. That said it was still a good book to read with some fun characters, I just wish I had gotten more.
In Appalachia consulting on an archeological dig, Anthropologist Dr. Drew Deveraux comes face to face with the indomitable beauty who broke into his apartment a year ago, tilting his carefully cultivated world on its axis.
Engaged in a fight with their demons, both imagined and real, the last thing either of them expected to find was love. Together, they must unravel the mystery of Raven’s past and her connection with an ancient race of witches, in order to save their future—and all of the souls hanging in the balance."
My Review: This is the second book in this series. I did enjoy this book but it didn't grab me as much as the first book did. I felt like there was something missing. I still enjoyed the characters (even though a couple of my favorites weren't in this one), but I felt like I didn't get to spend enough time with them individually. I would have liked to get to know Drew more and/or Raven more, but they were always together or with everyone else. I don't think I needed Ray's story to put the pieces together either. I also felt like after reading Fire On the Island, I already knew what was going to happen, there wasn't as much suspense to get my blood racing. That said it was still a good book to read with some fun characters, I just wish I had gotten more.
May 16, 2013
The thing that I absolutely LOVED about the first book was the plot. I thought it was absolutely freaking amazing. I found the character arc to be awkward and I didn't really believe the leap of love. As I said, I'm a gradual leaper...which is to say, I don't leap at all. I used to be. That's the only way I can explain the vampiric US Government assassin. *helpless shrug*
Book 2 was much better on the character arc. I really liked Raven right away, and Drew got me. He wormed his way into my heart and made me sigh, even with this iron rock I've got for a heart.
The plot was awesome again! I loved it. I couldn't tap the screen fast enough to get to the next page. Ms. Hogan did a great job! Well done!
Book 2 was much better on the character arc. I really liked Raven right away, and Drew got me. He wormed his way into my heart and made me sigh, even with this iron rock I've got for a heart.
The plot was awesome again! I loved it. I couldn't tap the screen fast enough to get to the next page. Ms. Hogan did a great job! Well done!
May 29, 2013
J.K. Hogan continues to thrill us in this paranormal romance...."Blood in the Valley" is the second book in 'The Vigilati Series' and picks up where they first book left off. Her characters came alive in their chemistry, leaving us with plenty of sexual tension, romance and a touch of humor. I do suggest reading the books in order so your not losing anything in the storyline. A must read series for all paranormal romance lovers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
June 28, 2013
Tremendous story. Fabulous characters. Interesting setting and a creative and compelling plot. Couldn't put it down. I haven't read book 1 and didn't feel lost in the story at all. But I enjoyed it so much I plan to read book one now - and anything else I can get my hands on by JK Hogan.
May 13, 2013
Review to come at http://spankyousilly.com on May 21.
September 21, 2013
this book was an amazing sequel to the first. I had no idea this book was going to be so good. Great writing style, great everything!
August 4, 2013
Fun read, hard to put down.
Read
December 12, 20134/5 stars
Really good paranormal mystery/romance.
Read my full review at http://indtale.com
Really good paranormal mystery/romance.
Read my full review at http://indtale.com
Read
April 26, 2013DNF-I may try to pick up and review at a later date
June 12, 2016
This book forever to finish. I did not like Raven, but I loved the rest of the characters. I loved that she brought back Isla and Jeremiah.
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