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Persephone Alcmedi #6
Shattered Circle
JUST YOUR AVERAGE MEGA-WITCH...
It’s tough being a modern woman, but Persephone Alcmedi has it worse than most. Being the prophesied Lustrata has kicked her career as a witch into high gear, and juggling a wærewolf boyfriend who is about to become king of his kind and a seductive vampire who bears her magical Mark isn’t easy either.
Still, Seph’s beloved foster daughter, Beverley, is causing more trouble than these two men put together. The young girl’s been playing with a magical artifact that’s far more dangerous than she realizes. Now Seph must summon help from a mystical being so potent that even vampires fear him... and the cost of his aid may be more than she’s willing to pay. Seph, Johnny, and Menessos face threats from all sides—and a few from within. Will the forces of destiny cement their tenuous supernatural union, or shatter it forever?
It’s tough being a modern woman, but Persephone Alcmedi has it worse than most. Being the prophesied Lustrata has kicked her career as a witch into high gear, and juggling a wærewolf boyfriend who is about to become king of his kind and a seductive vampire who bears her magical Mark isn’t easy either.
Still, Seph’s beloved foster daughter, Beverley, is causing more trouble than these two men put together. The young girl’s been playing with a magical artifact that’s far more dangerous than she realizes. Now Seph must summon help from a mystical being so potent that even vampires fear him... and the cost of his aid may be more than she’s willing to pay. Seph, Johnny, and Menessos face threats from all sides—and a few from within. Will the forces of destiny cement their tenuous supernatural union, or shatter it forever?
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2013
17 people are currently reading
783 people want to read
About the author
Linda Robertson
14 books376 followersLinda Robertson (who as of late 2022 has begun writing as Linda Robertson Reinhardt) is an internationally published novelist and her short stories have appeared in several anthologies. In addition to writing fantasy and urban fantasy, she is also a musician and award-winning composer. She has written and produced full orchestral scores to accompany her novels as well as a few short, independent films. Her music is available on most streaming channels. She’s also a graphic artist, a painter, and she dabbles in screenwriting. A mother of four boys, Linda is married and lives in Ohio.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 22, 2015
This is the final book so far, I can't wait for book 7 to be released.
Once again I prefer the vamp over the wolf but i'd be quite happy if Seph ended up with both of them :P.
The crazy bird-lady-sorcerer vamps was creepy as hell and I'm glad they didn't succeed in permanently harming our main characters.
I really enjoyed this installment in the series and the ending was perfect.
Once again I prefer the vamp over the wolf but i'd be quite happy if Seph ended up with both of them :P.
The crazy bird-lady-sorcerer vamps was creepy as hell and I'm glad they didn't succeed in permanently harming our main characters.
I really enjoyed this installment in the series and the ending was perfect.
January 30, 2013
A lot of things happened in the last book and it's left Persephone wondering what's going to happen with her life. Johnny, while he was transformed, tried to kill her and she has twice marked Menessos causing him to be even more enamored of her. She still has the Shabbubitum and the Excelsior to worry about and the coven still hasn't accepted her as The Lustrata. What else could possibly happen?
This is the sixth book of the series and it's hard to catch you up if you're not aware of what this book is about. A very basic explanation is that you have three individuals that are either coming into their powers (Seph, who is a witch), having their powers unlocked (Johnny, who is a waerewolf) and seeming to use their powers for good instead of manipulation (hopefully) (Menessos, who is a vampire). Johnny and Seph are in a relationship but there is partnership between the three and sometimes that causes more problems than not.
The book is written with a different POV for each chapter and it makes it easy to follow. Of course, I couldn't rush through the other chapters fast enough to get to the ones with Seph and Johnny. But I did like getting to know Goliath a lot more and I enjoyed seeing him come into being the Haven Master. I find his and Menessos relationship very interesting. The other chapters were not as exciting for me. Obviously, Giovanni is going to continue being a problem and I'm sure it's not the last we've heard of from LiyLiy.
I was really anxious about this book, mainly because of how things were progressing with Johnny. I really like Johnny and Persephone's (aka Seph) relationship and I want them to be able to find a way to make things work. Unfortunately, since the magic that was imbued in Johnny's tattoos has been unlocked, his full beast has come out and he's having a hard time controlling it. And it's not just about controlling his blood thirst that's the problem....it's his lust. There were still a few moments in this book that had me holding my breath!
I love Seph...there is just something about her but I missed her in this book. I didn't feel that we got as much of her as we should have. I did enjoy things towards the end where she is more involved and I was shocked about Creepy. Too bad that's probably not the last we'll see of him either.
Menessos also takes a bit of a back seat. He's prominent when he needs to be but I've also gotten used to him and found myself even looking forward to his parts. I was hoping that he was becoming more of a good guy but the questions that came up regarding Beverley has me worried.
I'm not really sure where things will go from here with the Shabbubitum and the Excelsior. I can't imagine what the Shabbubitum will do without Ailo and if the beating that Mero got will change anything. Obviously, they are both major factors in the plot but it's left to be seen what will happen.
As I mentioned, I love Johnny and Seph together but unfortunately with the circumstances the way they are, they didn't get much time together till the end. That means no steamy scenes...between them anyway. The good part is that there is some positive outcomes and we get some of the old Johnny towards the end. Bonus is there's an epilogue...bad part is why couldn't it be longer?
I have no idea at this point where things are going. There were some shocking turn of events in this book and luckily, I was happy about each one! But I've learned with this series that things are never the way they seem. Can't wait for the next one!
Favorite quotes:
♦ "Let me guess. She got close, didn't she?"
♦ "I hope you're ready for all the sh*t coming your way, Haven Master."
♥ "I love you," he whispered.
♦ "Sometimes we have to grow up and accept what Fate has in store for us, and put our faith in the alliances we are given."
This is the sixth book of the series and it's hard to catch you up if you're not aware of what this book is about. A very basic explanation is that you have three individuals that are either coming into their powers (Seph, who is a witch), having their powers unlocked (Johnny, who is a waerewolf) and seeming to use their powers for good instead of manipulation (hopefully) (Menessos, who is a vampire). Johnny and Seph are in a relationship but there is partnership between the three and sometimes that causes more problems than not.
The book is written with a different POV for each chapter and it makes it easy to follow. Of course, I couldn't rush through the other chapters fast enough to get to the ones with Seph and Johnny. But I did like getting to know Goliath a lot more and I enjoyed seeing him come into being the Haven Master. I find his and Menessos relationship very interesting. The other chapters were not as exciting for me. Obviously, Giovanni is going to continue being a problem and I'm sure it's not the last we've heard of from LiyLiy.
I was really anxious about this book, mainly because of how things were progressing with Johnny. I really like Johnny and Persephone's (aka Seph) relationship and I want them to be able to find a way to make things work. Unfortunately, since the magic that was imbued in Johnny's tattoos has been unlocked, his full beast has come out and he's having a hard time controlling it. And it's not just about controlling his blood thirst that's the problem....it's his lust. There were still a few moments in this book that had me holding my breath!
I love Seph...there is just something about her but I missed her in this book. I didn't feel that we got as much of her as we should have. I did enjoy things towards the end where she is more involved and I was shocked about Creepy. Too bad that's probably not the last we'll see of him either.
Menessos also takes a bit of a back seat. He's prominent when he needs to be but I've also gotten used to him and found myself even looking forward to his parts. I was hoping that he was becoming more of a good guy but the questions that came up regarding Beverley has me worried.
I'm not really sure where things will go from here with the Shabbubitum and the Excelsior. I can't imagine what the Shabbubitum will do without Ailo and if the beating that Mero got will change anything. Obviously, they are both major factors in the plot but it's left to be seen what will happen.
As I mentioned, I love Johnny and Seph together but unfortunately with the circumstances the way they are, they didn't get much time together till the end. That means no steamy scenes...between them anyway. The good part is that there is some positive outcomes and we get some of the old Johnny towards the end. Bonus is there's an epilogue...bad part is why couldn't it be longer?
I have no idea at this point where things are going. There were some shocking turn of events in this book and luckily, I was happy about each one! But I've learned with this series that things are never the way they seem. Can't wait for the next one!
Favorite quotes:
♦ "Let me guess. She got close, didn't she?"
♦ "I hope you're ready for all the sh*t coming your way, Haven Master."
♥ "I love you," he whispered.
♦ "Sometimes we have to grow up and accept what Fate has in store for us, and put our faith in the alliances we are given."
February 5, 2013
While I enjoyed reading this book, I did not love it. I had a real problem with the alternating viewpoints in the book, and how everyone is 3rd person, except for Persephone, which is 1st person. It felt too disjointed as I was reading it. Lots of things are happening, and the overall story arc is certainly moving forward, but there was no real interaction amongst the 3 main characters, and that's what I missed.
February 10, 2017
Shattered Circle is the 6th book in the Persephone Alcmedi series. And in this book things are getting more intense. More dangers lie in wait for our beloved trio. Menessos issues with the vamps and losing hive master, but he obtains something more important and dangerous in the process. Johnny is still dealing with issues of becoming the Dom Lup. Persephone well she just can't seem to catch a break.
This book is extremely intense because not only are things getting more intense. But in this book you actually get the trio's different situation told by them. So basically you aren't going to get bored with one characters story. And though they all had a somewhat different story in this one book, all three combined in a way, that will just get more intense as the series continues.
Again Ms. Robertson has wowed me with another enticing book. It helps remind me of why I love reading, and diving into different world. Why I love reviewing books. Because this series grabs and doesn't let go, it keeps you wanting more.
This book is extremely intense because not only are things getting more intense. But in this book you actually get the trio's different situation told by them. So basically you aren't going to get bored with one characters story. And though they all had a somewhat different story in this one book, all three combined in a way, that will just get more intense as the series continues.
Again Ms. Robertson has wowed me with another enticing book. It helps remind me of why I love reading, and diving into different world. Why I love reviewing books. Because this series grabs and doesn't let go, it keeps you wanting more.
Read
February 12, 2013Another great book in the Persephone Alcmedi series. Persephone, Johnny and Menessos all have a lot on their plates in this book. I enjoyed reading about what each character is dealing with and I really feel like they are becoming stronger individuals which hopefully leads to them being a stronger group. I was happy to learn more about Creepy because the last book left me guessing about him. I get the feeling that we haven’t seen the last of him. The new changes in Beverley (Persephone’s foster daughter) work well to bring some new challenges to the story. All in all I really enjoyed the read and I can’t wait for the next book.
June 8, 2013
I got bored many times reading this, unlike the other books. I kept having to stop reading either because I was annoyed with the waffling on, the plot or boredom. Not the best in the series at all. 1-4 are brilliant, 5 went a bit 'pete tong' and 6 declined further. Its not the story per se, it's the constant swapping of characters causing confusion. It didn't flow well at all. Too many stories trying to wind in. This series needs to go back to a strong story that flows and not lots of little stories intertwined. In fact it felt almost like a collection of short stories cobbled together into a book.
April 8, 2013
I was hooked after the first book.. And when that happens I devour the books in a series. Here I sit, after finishing all the books, and I'm wishing I slowed down some. I finished this book in a day, and I loved every second of it.
Can't wait for the next!
Can't wait for the next!
February 2, 2013
Terrible. This book is all fluff and no substance. I'm officially washing my hands of this series.
January 31, 2013
KInd of all over the place. I don't know if I'll continue with the series. The first couple of books were pretty good but the last one and this one just felt off
July 5, 2019
Once again, this book picked up right where the last one left off. Having recently been attacked by her werewolf lover, Johnny, Seph has taken refuge with the vampire Menessos. Logically, she knows Johnny didn't mean to harm her, but emotionally, she is finding it difficult to trust him.
Johnny is not without his own problems. As the newly crowned Domn Lup, the king of the werewolves, he now must navigate politics and negotiations, as well as try to avoid the amorous attentions of Aurelia, his "assistant". In addition, he's recently learned he has a son from a youthful relationship, and now Johnny fears the boy's life may be in danger.
As for Menessos, he has had to relinquish his position as Haven Master, once it became known that he was under Persephone's control, and not the other way around.
In addition, Seph's ward, Beverly, has stolen a magical artifact from Persephone's room in an effort to contact her dead mother. Instead, she is sucked into a ley line. To save her, Persephone must throw her lot in with an entity that even the vampires fear, and the price he demands is steep.
Well now. It's one thing to have a lot going on in a book, but this was really too much. Aside from that, the author wrote Persephone's pov in first-person, but every other pov was in third. Personally, I feel that if you're going to write in first-person pov, commit to it and don't go doodling off to follow other characters in third. It makes the narrative too jarring. We followed Seph, Beverly, Johnny, Menessos, Mero, Goliath, Ailo, Liyliy, and Demeter. I needed a cast list just to keep up! The story was very fast-paced, obviously, and it was well written; I simply didn't appreciate that the author crammed everything into one book. Characterizations were well done, even the villains. My other complaint is that Persephone is becoming the ultimate Mary Sue. Every man wants her, and it's getting tedious, quite frankly.
I'm waffling over a score here. The story was intense and well-written, but certain things rubbed me the wrong way. Since that was subjective, I'll give this a four.
Johnny is not without his own problems. As the newly crowned Domn Lup, the king of the werewolves, he now must navigate politics and negotiations, as well as try to avoid the amorous attentions of Aurelia, his "assistant". In addition, he's recently learned he has a son from a youthful relationship, and now Johnny fears the boy's life may be in danger.
As for Menessos, he has had to relinquish his position as Haven Master, once it became known that he was under Persephone's control, and not the other way around.
In addition, Seph's ward, Beverly, has stolen a magical artifact from Persephone's room in an effort to contact her dead mother. Instead, she is sucked into a ley line. To save her, Persephone must throw her lot in with an entity that even the vampires fear, and the price he demands is steep.
Well now. It's one thing to have a lot going on in a book, but this was really too much. Aside from that, the author wrote Persephone's pov in first-person, but every other pov was in third. Personally, I feel that if you're going to write in first-person pov, commit to it and don't go doodling off to follow other characters in third. It makes the narrative too jarring. We followed Seph, Beverly, Johnny, Menessos, Mero, Goliath, Ailo, Liyliy, and Demeter. I needed a cast list just to keep up! The story was very fast-paced, obviously, and it was well written; I simply didn't appreciate that the author crammed everything into one book. Characterizations were well done, even the villains. My other complaint is that Persephone is becoming the ultimate Mary Sue. Every man wants her, and it's getting tedious, quite frankly.
I'm waffling over a score here. The story was intense and well-written, but certain things rubbed me the wrong way. Since that was subjective, I'll give this a four.
June 4, 2018
now we have even more bigger problems. No one is talking to each other everyone is going in a different direction.
February 26, 2013
My Synopsis:
They say the Lustrata will bring balance. That she'll be able to erase the lines drawn between humans, waerewolves, vampires, and witches. That her word shall be law and benefit all. That while the pendulum of power swings, she will be able maintain the balance despite the swinging.
With great power, however, comes great responsibility, and sometimes the line between priorities needs to shift in order to maintain balance. Sometimes hard choices and sacrifices need to be made. The real challenge is to recognize the what, when, and how of it. Menessos already seems to have gotten his priorities figured out, now it's Johnny and Seph's turn. With everything changing and outside forces attempting to tip the scales in favor of their agendas, they're going to need to stand strong and band together. For they're going to need each other more than ever.
My Thoughts:
This is the sixth book of the Persephone Alcmedi series. If you haven't read the previous books, you really should. The books build upon each other like a group of stepping stones with each one leading up to the next. A progression of steps that reveal bits and pieces about the world and the characters. This is the first book of the series, where I've felt after reading, it that the the base has been solidly set, and now it's time for Persephone's real work to begin.
In Arcane Circle, Johnny got his powers back. In Wicked Circle, he and his beast were at odds, his past and present finally merged, and he found out he was a father. Now he's dealing with the wild side of his nature in another way--his libido is in high gear. Just the scent of a female waerewolf sets it off and he's trying not to act upon it. While it appears to be a side effect of his coming into his powers, I can't help but wonder is someone might be aware of Johnny's condition and is slipping something into his food or drink to heighten this reaction. One thing for sure, Aurelia appears to be more than willing to tip the lust in her direction. Johnny already suspects she used her feminine charms to keep the last Rege in check. She's beautiful, smart, strong, and Johnny's pretty sure she's manipulative and devious as well and doesn't trust her, but she's got her sights set on Johnny. Will he be able to resist?
On the home front, Persephone's ward, Beverly, has gone missing. She got ahold of Seph's bespelled slate and disappeared within the ley line. Seph is once again seeking Menessos' help to figure out how to find and save Beverly. Apparently, Beverly isn't fully human. In the supernatural world at certain ages people come into their powers and guess who just celebrated her birthday? That's right, Beverly. So while most parents and guardians have to deal with the typical growing pains, Seph will have her hands full with a touch more.
In Wicked Circle, Menessos introduced Seph to a mysterious man she nicknamed Creepy, because he was, and wouldn't let her know his name. Menessos made a deal with him to keep Seph safe. On more than one occasion, he's revealed an avid interest in Seph. Well, you didn't really think he was gone for good did you? We'll finally find out who and what he is and this time Seph will make a deal with him. Will it cost her everything?
Overall, I gave this one 4 out of 5 roses. It was a bit different from the previous novels. Instead of focusing on just one area, it seemed to be all over the place. The trio of Seph, Johnny, and Menessos have slowly been tugged in different directions and all have needed to deal with their own issues and separate power struggles. They needed to figure out their priorities and start getting their ducks all lined up in a row. Yes, with power comes great responsibility and sometimes you get by with a little help from your friends. I think this book marks the turning point where all three of them finally realize just how much they need each other. It seems their fates are interwoven. I look forward to seeing what Ms. Robertson has in store for the next book.
They say the Lustrata will bring balance. That she'll be able to erase the lines drawn between humans, waerewolves, vampires, and witches. That her word shall be law and benefit all. That while the pendulum of power swings, she will be able maintain the balance despite the swinging.
With great power, however, comes great responsibility, and sometimes the line between priorities needs to shift in order to maintain balance. Sometimes hard choices and sacrifices need to be made. The real challenge is to recognize the what, when, and how of it. Menessos already seems to have gotten his priorities figured out, now it's Johnny and Seph's turn. With everything changing and outside forces attempting to tip the scales in favor of their agendas, they're going to need to stand strong and band together. For they're going to need each other more than ever.
My Thoughts:
This is the sixth book of the Persephone Alcmedi series. If you haven't read the previous books, you really should. The books build upon each other like a group of stepping stones with each one leading up to the next. A progression of steps that reveal bits and pieces about the world and the characters. This is the first book of the series, where I've felt after reading, it that the the base has been solidly set, and now it's time for Persephone's real work to begin.
In Arcane Circle, Johnny got his powers back. In Wicked Circle, he and his beast were at odds, his past and present finally merged, and he found out he was a father. Now he's dealing with the wild side of his nature in another way--his libido is in high gear. Just the scent of a female waerewolf sets it off and he's trying not to act upon it. While it appears to be a side effect of his coming into his powers, I can't help but wonder is someone might be aware of Johnny's condition and is slipping something into his food or drink to heighten this reaction. One thing for sure, Aurelia appears to be more than willing to tip the lust in her direction. Johnny already suspects she used her feminine charms to keep the last Rege in check. She's beautiful, smart, strong, and Johnny's pretty sure she's manipulative and devious as well and doesn't trust her, but she's got her sights set on Johnny. Will he be able to resist?
On the home front, Persephone's ward, Beverly, has gone missing. She got ahold of Seph's bespelled slate and disappeared within the ley line. Seph is once again seeking Menessos' help to figure out how to find and save Beverly. Apparently, Beverly isn't fully human. In the supernatural world at certain ages people come into their powers and guess who just celebrated her birthday? That's right, Beverly. So while most parents and guardians have to deal with the typical growing pains, Seph will have her hands full with a touch more.
In Wicked Circle, Menessos introduced Seph to a mysterious man she nicknamed Creepy, because he was, and wouldn't let her know his name. Menessos made a deal with him to keep Seph safe. On more than one occasion, he's revealed an avid interest in Seph. Well, you didn't really think he was gone for good did you? We'll finally find out who and what he is and this time Seph will make a deal with him. Will it cost her everything?
Overall, I gave this one 4 out of 5 roses. It was a bit different from the previous novels. Instead of focusing on just one area, it seemed to be all over the place. The trio of Seph, Johnny, and Menessos have slowly been tugged in different directions and all have needed to deal with their own issues and separate power struggles. They needed to figure out their priorities and start getting their ducks all lined up in a row. Yes, with power comes great responsibility and sometimes you get by with a little help from your friends. I think this book marks the turning point where all three of them finally realize just how much they need each other. It seems their fates are interwoven. I look forward to seeing what Ms. Robertson has in store for the next book.
February 19, 2013
Maybe 3 1/2 stars.
The biggest problem with this book was the constant point of view changes. The first few chapters started with third person focusing on the vampires. Because I'm so used to the 1st person (which dominated books 1-4), I found it hard to get back into the story. In fact, it wasn't till we got back in Persephone's head that I got back into the story properly.
After that, things flowed a bit better, but towards the end the point of view switching started wearing on me again. Every time I'd get to the end of a "edge of your seat" chapter, the next chapter was about something completely different.
By the end, it didn't feel like there was one complete story. Rather it felt like snippets of a lot of stories that didn't all connect.
For Menessos it was mainly about switching roles with Goliath. Because Perseopone's the holder of the marks between Perseophone, Johnny, and Menessos, the vampires made Menessos step down as master of his kiss. Menessos passed the reins onto Goliath, a vampire he made. More than that, Goliath asked Menessos to relinquish the sire bond between them.
For Johnny it was about adjusting to being top dog. That consisted of (1) a potential move of the wolves' home base -- because the old one may be getting torn down to create a bypass (shades of Arthur Dent *g*). (2) Moving his son and his son's dying grandmother to town so he can protect them. (3) And an overly amorous Aurelia who wants to be top bitch in the pack.
For Persephone it means finding Beverley after she runs off, and adjusting to Menessos' method of saving her. Beverley messed with Persephone's weji board and ended up getting sucked into a ley line. Being sucked into the ley line means Beverley has fey blood. In order to save her from the line Menessos "gifts her" with a ... well, gift. I'm not sure if that was a gift he brought out of her (as in the potential was there), or he pulled a gift out of the air. But Beverley is now an oath breaker. She can break oaths between other paranormal beings. Which means she's rare, dangerous without control of her gifts, and someone who needs to be protected.
Menessos takes Beverley back to the vampire den, leaving Persephone alone at her farmhouse, vulnerable from the Beverley incident as well as Johnny's attempt to kill her in the previous book. (They haven't talked yet.) Persephone decides to meditate, but forgets to call all the proper protections in her circle. She ends up in Creepy's realm, and beholden to him to escape.
Turns out Creepy is Hades and she takes a walk though the underworld with him. (Think ancient Greek underworld vs Elysium, not Christian heaven and hell.) Hades makes her drink from the river Lethe. When she "wakes up" she has forgotten everything and Hades presents himself as her husband.
Damn, talk about messing with ancient Greek myths.
In the meantime, Persephone is still sitting in the circle in her kitchen, unresponsive. Johnny calls Demeter who calls in three witches. The witches form a protective circle so Demeter can try to find Persephone and bring her home.
blah, blah, blah, ...
And we bring everything to a close with an enormous Thanksgiving dinner. Evan, Johnny's son, and Beverley show signs of being fast friends. Persephone, Johnny, and Menessos show all signs of playing nice with each other. I have no idea what's next in their little world.
Hmmm, writing that all out, it seems like a lot happened. Why doesn't it feel like there was "a plot", "an event"? I don't know. I'm just not big on the point of view jumping. I went into this series expecting first person, and now that's not what I'm getting anymore. Makes the book seem less complete. Good book, but left me wanting more.
The biggest problem with this book was the constant point of view changes. The first few chapters started with third person focusing on the vampires. Because I'm so used to the 1st person (which dominated books 1-4), I found it hard to get back into the story. In fact, it wasn't till we got back in Persephone's head that I got back into the story properly.
After that, things flowed a bit better, but towards the end the point of view switching started wearing on me again. Every time I'd get to the end of a "edge of your seat" chapter, the next chapter was about something completely different.
By the end, it didn't feel like there was one complete story. Rather it felt like snippets of a lot of stories that didn't all connect.
For Menessos it was mainly about switching roles with Goliath. Because Perseopone's the holder of the marks between Perseophone, Johnny, and Menessos, the vampires made Menessos step down as master of his kiss. Menessos passed the reins onto Goliath, a vampire he made. More than that, Goliath asked Menessos to relinquish the sire bond between them.
For Johnny it was about adjusting to being top dog. That consisted of (1) a potential move of the wolves' home base -- because the old one may be getting torn down to create a bypass (shades of Arthur Dent *g*). (2) Moving his son and his son's dying grandmother to town so he can protect them. (3) And an overly amorous Aurelia who wants to be top bitch in the pack.
For Persephone it means finding Beverley after she runs off, and adjusting to Menessos' method of saving her. Beverley messed with Persephone's weji board and ended up getting sucked into a ley line. Being sucked into the ley line means Beverley has fey blood. In order to save her from the line Menessos "gifts her" with a ... well, gift. I'm not sure if that was a gift he brought out of her (as in the potential was there), or he pulled a gift out of the air. But Beverley is now an oath breaker. She can break oaths between other paranormal beings. Which means she's rare, dangerous without control of her gifts, and someone who needs to be protected.
Menessos takes Beverley back to the vampire den, leaving Persephone alone at her farmhouse, vulnerable from the Beverley incident as well as Johnny's attempt to kill her in the previous book. (They haven't talked yet.) Persephone decides to meditate, but forgets to call all the proper protections in her circle. She ends up in Creepy's realm, and beholden to him to escape.
Turns out Creepy is Hades and she takes a walk though the underworld with him. (Think ancient Greek underworld vs Elysium, not Christian heaven and hell.) Hades makes her drink from the river Lethe. When she "wakes up" she has forgotten everything and Hades presents himself as her husband.
Damn, talk about messing with ancient Greek myths.
In the meantime, Persephone is still sitting in the circle in her kitchen, unresponsive. Johnny calls Demeter who calls in three witches. The witches form a protective circle so Demeter can try to find Persephone and bring her home.
blah, blah, blah, ...
And we bring everything to a close with an enormous Thanksgiving dinner. Evan, Johnny's son, and Beverley show signs of being fast friends. Persephone, Johnny, and Menessos show all signs of playing nice with each other. I have no idea what's next in their little world.
Hmmm, writing that all out, it seems like a lot happened. Why doesn't it feel like there was "a plot", "an event"? I don't know. I'm just not big on the point of view jumping. I went into this series expecting first person, and now that's not what I'm getting anymore. Makes the book seem less complete. Good book, but left me wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2018
Review also posted on Book Lovin' Mamas
First off, I am going to kick myself in the butt for not realizing when I signed up for the tour that this is the actual 6th book in the series. I have never read out of order (it is a pet peeve of mine and I think I literally pulled my hair when I finally realized it)….so forgive me, Linda Robertson. I have to say though, what sold me on this book and what is now tempting me to read the first 5 and re-read this one is the fantasy world that Linda created it. What sold me into participating in the blog tour was the synopsis of this book and the cover. I always enjoyed the Urban Fantasy genre as well. There are always twists and turns in Urban Fantasy that PNR and other genres do not follow.
Persephone Alcmedi is dealing with a lot, she’s the Lustratra and everyone pretty much fears her and what she is capable of….of course they’re some who want her on their side. She has a werewolf boyfriend who is now the king of his kind and he’s dealing with his own problems…one that involves his secret that Persephone is about to find about and his very controlling, manipulative new assistant who seems to want him for herself. Persephone also has her foster daughter, Beverley causing trouble at home, and forces Persephone in a bind. Beverley will put herself in danger and Persephone will have to ask the vampire, Menessos, to help out, but with a price that Persephone will have no control over. All three of them, are dealing with their own problems, but in the end, they will have to come together due to a bigger threat that is arising.
I was confused at first while reading this because it jumped right into what the 5th book left off, but Linda definitely made sure to let me know what went on and I fell in love with the characters. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this book due to all the dilemmas that were happening to each character.
This book gave me POVs of all different characters, which made me a little disoriented at first, but when I got further in the book, I was intrigued by each character that I was reading from. I got to feel what every character was having to endure in this book. ( I love having different points of view because you grow to understand each character and love them or hate them more. You also get to feel what the characters are dealing with, while the other characters have no clue what they went through. )
The best part of the book…which to the character Persephone and her family and friends was considered awful was when Linda Robertson threw in an adaption of mythology that I loved as a child. (Persephone & Hades) (I will not spoil it for anyone who wants to read this book or the others)
Witches, vampires, werewolves, fae, and even a little bit of mythology….all combined in one book, why would you not want to read it?
Why have I not heard of this series before until now? Shame on me and shame on none of my friends heard about it as well. Well, now they know. =)
I am so happy to know that Bewitching introduced me to this author and this series. =) I definitely will be reading the first 5 books, as well as anxiously waiting for the 7th book. (I will even re-read this one when I read the other 5 to get the full effect)
Linda Robertson has a writing style that had me staying up late to read the book so I can find out what happened next to Seph and her circle of friends.
I definitely recommend this book or actually, I should say series to Urban Fantasy readers out there everywhere.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from the author for the blog tour in exchange for an honest review.
First off, I am going to kick myself in the butt for not realizing when I signed up for the tour that this is the actual 6th book in the series. I have never read out of order (it is a pet peeve of mine and I think I literally pulled my hair when I finally realized it)….so forgive me, Linda Robertson. I have to say though, what sold me on this book and what is now tempting me to read the first 5 and re-read this one is the fantasy world that Linda created it. What sold me into participating in the blog tour was the synopsis of this book and the cover. I always enjoyed the Urban Fantasy genre as well. There are always twists and turns in Urban Fantasy that PNR and other genres do not follow.
Persephone Alcmedi is dealing with a lot, she’s the Lustratra and everyone pretty much fears her and what she is capable of….of course they’re some who want her on their side. She has a werewolf boyfriend who is now the king of his kind and he’s dealing with his own problems…one that involves his secret that Persephone is about to find about and his very controlling, manipulative new assistant who seems to want him for herself. Persephone also has her foster daughter, Beverley causing trouble at home, and forces Persephone in a bind. Beverley will put herself in danger and Persephone will have to ask the vampire, Menessos, to help out, but with a price that Persephone will have no control over. All three of them, are dealing with their own problems, but in the end, they will have to come together due to a bigger threat that is arising.
I was confused at first while reading this because it jumped right into what the 5th book left off, but Linda definitely made sure to let me know what went on and I fell in love with the characters. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this book due to all the dilemmas that were happening to each character.
This book gave me POVs of all different characters, which made me a little disoriented at first, but when I got further in the book, I was intrigued by each character that I was reading from. I got to feel what every character was having to endure in this book. ( I love having different points of view because you grow to understand each character and love them or hate them more. You also get to feel what the characters are dealing with, while the other characters have no clue what they went through. )
The best part of the book…which to the character Persephone and her family and friends was considered awful was when Linda Robertson threw in an adaption of mythology that I loved as a child. (Persephone & Hades) (I will not spoil it for anyone who wants to read this book or the others)
Witches, vampires, werewolves, fae, and even a little bit of mythology….all combined in one book, why would you not want to read it?
Why have I not heard of this series before until now? Shame on me and shame on none of my friends heard about it as well. Well, now they know. =)
I am so happy to know that Bewitching introduced me to this author and this series. =) I definitely will be reading the first 5 books, as well as anxiously waiting for the 7th book. (I will even re-read this one when I read the other 5 to get the full effect)
Linda Robertson has a writing style that had me staying up late to read the book so I can find out what happened next to Seph and her circle of friends.
I definitely recommend this book or actually, I should say series to Urban Fantasy readers out there everywhere.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from the author for the blog tour in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2013
It's been sooo long since I last dived into Linda Robertson's series that I hesitated when reading Shattered Circle. Luckily it wasn't too much of a problem. Sure, I forgot some of the plot and action details, but fort he most part I was able to move along nicely with this one.
Shattered Circle is told from many points of view. Persephone is our heroine and when it's her turn to narrate, it's in first person, while the other characters are in third. It's definitely one of those books where you crave the person's next narration, for nearly every time their "storytelling" ends, it's on a mini cliffhanger. It's reading from cliffhanger to cliffhanger, total insanity, but at least here you know that the cliffhanger will be picked up in just an odd amount of pages.
This story has a little more focus on Beverley, Seph's foster daughter. And after a series of unfortunate events, we learn that Beverley has powers of her own. Shocking news and yet there's no time for Seph to dwell or ponder on it. Beverley's life is in danger now because she has a very special and unique power that will draw all the wrong sort of attention towards her. Enemies are everywhere and anywhere and in order to keep her safe, Seph must allow Menessos to take her.
For the latter part of the book, Seph goes in meditation and becomes trapped. Creepy is back and we finally get to know more about him! Considering I couldn't really remember this guy at all, the knowing part wasn't as much of a relief as it should've been. But when we do learn of who he is, it's just like WOW! And with the way the ending went down, it's tough to say if he will be back in the next book.
With all the points of view in this one, it was hard for me to always follow along with the side parts of the story. I mean I could understand and follow it for the most part, but then something minor would happen and it would throw a wrench into my understanding. All these narrators have their own agendas as well, so we follow their devious plotting or whatall and then watch them contribute to the main plotline in their own way. So while it wasn't insanely difficult to follow, it just made things a tad hard. But the book was still very enjoyable. I look forward to seeing where this series winds up.
There wasn't any "real" romance in this book. There's a reason behind my "real" but I can't get into that without spoilers. Seph and Johnny are still a little on the outs. After Johnny almost attacked her while in wolf form, Seph is finding it hard to trust him. She wants to, yet there is still that lingering fear. There weren't any romantic moments between her and Menessos either. He wasn't really around a whole lot. I mean he was there in the story, but it didn't feel like he had much of a critical role this time whereas Johnny was around a lot and had his own narration points too.
Things are definitely changing in the world of Persephone Alcmedi. Big changes, little changes...things that will completely alter her way of living. While things seemed hopeful at the end, there's still a lot of little details left unsaid, other characters whose status remain unknown, like what was happening with them the last time we saw them. This series is definitely a fun one! The characters are all so different from one another and there's quite the variety of them too. As I said, I am very intrigued to see where this series will be going.
Overall rating 4/5 stars
Shattered Circle is told from many points of view. Persephone is our heroine and when it's her turn to narrate, it's in first person, while the other characters are in third. It's definitely one of those books where you crave the person's next narration, for nearly every time their "storytelling" ends, it's on a mini cliffhanger. It's reading from cliffhanger to cliffhanger, total insanity, but at least here you know that the cliffhanger will be picked up in just an odd amount of pages.
This story has a little more focus on Beverley, Seph's foster daughter. And after a series of unfortunate events, we learn that Beverley has powers of her own. Shocking news and yet there's no time for Seph to dwell or ponder on it. Beverley's life is in danger now because she has a very special and unique power that will draw all the wrong sort of attention towards her. Enemies are everywhere and anywhere and in order to keep her safe, Seph must allow Menessos to take her.
For the latter part of the book, Seph goes in meditation and becomes trapped. Creepy is back and we finally get to know more about him! Considering I couldn't really remember this guy at all, the knowing part wasn't as much of a relief as it should've been. But when we do learn of who he is, it's just like WOW! And with the way the ending went down, it's tough to say if he will be back in the next book.
With all the points of view in this one, it was hard for me to always follow along with the side parts of the story. I mean I could understand and follow it for the most part, but then something minor would happen and it would throw a wrench into my understanding. All these narrators have their own agendas as well, so we follow their devious plotting or whatall and then watch them contribute to the main plotline in their own way. So while it wasn't insanely difficult to follow, it just made things a tad hard. But the book was still very enjoyable. I look forward to seeing where this series winds up.
There wasn't any "real" romance in this book. There's a reason behind my "real" but I can't get into that without spoilers. Seph and Johnny are still a little on the outs. After Johnny almost attacked her while in wolf form, Seph is finding it hard to trust him. She wants to, yet there is still that lingering fear. There weren't any romantic moments between her and Menessos either. He wasn't really around a whole lot. I mean he was there in the story, but it didn't feel like he had much of a critical role this time whereas Johnny was around a lot and had his own narration points too.
Things are definitely changing in the world of Persephone Alcmedi. Big changes, little changes...things that will completely alter her way of living. While things seemed hopeful at the end, there's still a lot of little details left unsaid, other characters whose status remain unknown, like what was happening with them the last time we saw them. This series is definitely a fun one! The characters are all so different from one another and there's quite the variety of them too. As I said, I am very intrigued to see where this series will be going.
Overall rating 4/5 stars
February 12, 2013
I’m going to start by saying that this may not be one of my greatest reviews- BUT before you freak out- I loved the book, I should have read the whole freaking series first!!! Hahahaha I’m sometimes a goofball, and wanna read a book with out even noticing if it’s part of a series!! Soo… This is the first book I’ve read in this series- BAD DOG MAGHON!! LOL however with that said, I will now be investing in this WHOLE SERIES!! I liked this book a whole heaping lot and seriously feel the need to read from page one of book one! High five in getting myself to purchase more books hahahaha I will most definitely be reading them all- in order- and probably editing this review in the future!
I happen to very much like Persephone as a character! I like that her nick name is Seph… Though I some times wanna call her Stef and it’s funny to me that I keep noticing myself calling Menessos, Mimosa… Maybe my crazy life is telling me I need a drink… Or maybe it’s my crazy Cajun heritage hahaha any who! Back to Seph, I know I’m missing some parts by not starting at the beginning but I’ve found I already love her. I like what she stands for and who she feels she is and her willingness to help others and she lets some major wrongs go to help those who have wronged her. She’s become a very much wanna-be character to me- meaning I would definitely wanna be her in another world!
I think I’m definitely enjoying the male characters in here, though I’m usually all about team werewolf, and yet I found myself a little on team vamper more! *GASP* I wasn’t sure that was possible, so another major high five to Ms Linda for having something special! And I totally loved her relationship with Beverly! It’s very cool to me for an urban fantasy heroine to have a child, regardless if she actually gave birth or not! And she stole my heart so who wouldn’t love that!!
This story is action packed, and though I know there’s backstory I haven’t read, I had absolutely no trouble being sucked into this world of awesome! I loved the world created and this makes me want to have the whole series even more!! The writing is just fantabulous! It has so many feelings to it, plus after reading all these character’s problems, I’m thinking I should stop stressing so much about mine! LOL! I absolutely cannot wait to read more and getting the first books of this series has just become a high priority for me!! I can’t wait for more! 5 SCARY DELICIOUS PAWS from me!!
I happen to very much like Persephone as a character! I like that her nick name is Seph… Though I some times wanna call her Stef and it’s funny to me that I keep noticing myself calling Menessos, Mimosa… Maybe my crazy life is telling me I need a drink… Or maybe it’s my crazy Cajun heritage hahaha any who! Back to Seph, I know I’m missing some parts by not starting at the beginning but I’ve found I already love her. I like what she stands for and who she feels she is and her willingness to help others and she lets some major wrongs go to help those who have wronged her. She’s become a very much wanna-be character to me- meaning I would definitely wanna be her in another world!
I think I’m definitely enjoying the male characters in here, though I’m usually all about team werewolf, and yet I found myself a little on team vamper more! *GASP* I wasn’t sure that was possible, so another major high five to Ms Linda for having something special! And I totally loved her relationship with Beverly! It’s very cool to me for an urban fantasy heroine to have a child, regardless if she actually gave birth or not! And she stole my heart so who wouldn’t love that!!
This story is action packed, and though I know there’s backstory I haven’t read, I had absolutely no trouble being sucked into this world of awesome! I loved the world created and this makes me want to have the whole series even more!! The writing is just fantabulous! It has so many feelings to it, plus after reading all these character’s problems, I’m thinking I should stop stressing so much about mine! LOL! I absolutely cannot wait to read more and getting the first books of this series has just become a high priority for me!! I can’t wait for more! 5 SCARY DELICIOUS PAWS from me!!
February 11, 2013
I was so excited when I saw Shattered Circle was going to go on blog tour and that I would get the chance to review it. I had seen the Persephone Alcmedi series around and had always wanted to read this urban fantasy series. I knew if I signed up to be a host it would give me an excuse to read through the series. It has been a treat to go from one book to the next.
What I liked
Persephone Alcmedi is an awesome heroin! I love her. She is so capable but still able to be vulnerable. If you are new to the series as I was just weeks ago it reminded me a bit of Anita Blake, you know when Anita Blake was still a virgin and the story was still awesome, at the beginning. No, it’s not just like that but Persephone Alcmedi still has that I-can’t-wait-to-find-out-what-happens-next feel.
What I like the most about this series is that all the characters sort of have their own lives away from each other, but they are continually being drown together. In a lot of ways it’s like watching a spider build its web. At first it looks like everything is too far away to be of use, but by the time the spider has finished you can see how everything is connected.
What surprised me
Normally in any series that has more than one male lead I have picked a favorite by this point. But here I am having finished book six, Shattered Circle, and I just can’t decide who I love. I go back and forth between, Johnny (big shot werewolf) and, Menessos (big shot vampire). I really don’t know who I would if I had too… For Persephone that is;)
Another surprise is how much I enjoyed the change of POV from chapter to chapter. I will be honest, POV changes can really make or break a book for me if I don’t like the voice of some of the characters. But I felt like the writing didn’t drag at all in Shattered Circle.
Will I continue this series
Yes, I want to continue with the Persephone Alcmedi series! So much happened in Shattered Circle and I know there is even more to come. I know I am being very vague, but if you have not started this series I don’t want to be the one that you get spoilers from. If you are an urban fantasy fan go grab this series and give it a go.
Happy reading,
Rebecca
www.bendingthespine.blogspot.com
What I liked
Persephone Alcmedi is an awesome heroin! I love her. She is so capable but still able to be vulnerable. If you are new to the series as I was just weeks ago it reminded me a bit of Anita Blake, you know when Anita Blake was still a virgin and the story was still awesome, at the beginning. No, it’s not just like that but Persephone Alcmedi still has that I-can’t-wait-to-find-out-what-happens-next feel.
What I like the most about this series is that all the characters sort of have their own lives away from each other, but they are continually being drown together. In a lot of ways it’s like watching a spider build its web. At first it looks like everything is too far away to be of use, but by the time the spider has finished you can see how everything is connected.
What surprised me
Normally in any series that has more than one male lead I have picked a favorite by this point. But here I am having finished book six, Shattered Circle, and I just can’t decide who I love. I go back and forth between, Johnny (big shot werewolf) and, Menessos (big shot vampire). I really don’t know who I would if I had too… For Persephone that is;)
Another surprise is how much I enjoyed the change of POV from chapter to chapter. I will be honest, POV changes can really make or break a book for me if I don’t like the voice of some of the characters. But I felt like the writing didn’t drag at all in Shattered Circle.
Will I continue this series
Yes, I want to continue with the Persephone Alcmedi series! So much happened in Shattered Circle and I know there is even more to come. I know I am being very vague, but if you have not started this series I don’t want to be the one that you get spoilers from. If you are an urban fantasy fan go grab this series and give it a go.
Happy reading,
Rebecca
www.bendingthespine.blogspot.com
February 20, 2013
There were a lot of things going on in this book, and separately for that matter. In the previous book, Seph, Johnny and Menessos were always together going up against the vampires at one time, witches or the wærewolves. This time around everyone was dealing with their own personal problems. The Diviza, region wære representative is coming into town to confirm Johnny as the Dom Loup, all while Johnny adjusts to his new role; not only as the wærewolf king but also as a father. Next we have Menessos who just stepped down as haven master after VEIN discovered he was twice marked by Seph, and he’s now in the process of transferring all his responsibilities to his successor Goliath. Finally we have Seph, who sadly cannot catch a break from everyone wanting to use her position as the ‘Lustrata’ to their personal advantage. Everything gets more hectic when Beverly; Seph’s adoptive daughter goes missing in the ley-lines. Menessos, being the powerful wizard that he is able to pull Beverly from the ley line but not without a price…since she’s not fully human (how she got in the ley line in the first place) Menessos had to ‘gift’ her …creating a ward-breaker.
Things go from bad to worse when Seph sits down for a meditation and realizes creepy is in her alternative plane. Creepy says he can help Seph escape from all her troubles and protect the people she loves all at the same time if she’s willing to agree to his price but once Seph learns his true identity…she sees he never had the intention of letting her go. The first third of the book is mostly recapping of the characters, and their progression throughout the series. The Vampire-Harpy sisters from the previous novel are still prisoners of the haven, and they cause problems when they learn of Beverly’s new ability. There wasn’t a lot of action, just two big scenes from what I can remember in the entire book but there was a lot of scheming between the characters, everyone trying to manipulate others to reach their goal. My favorite part of the entire book was the end when everyone is finally together. The scene with Seph, Johnny and Menessos in the kitchen looking out at everyone gathered around them totally made me tear up! I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to what lies ahead for the trio.
Things go from bad to worse when Seph sits down for a meditation and realizes creepy is in her alternative plane. Creepy says he can help Seph escape from all her troubles and protect the people she loves all at the same time if she’s willing to agree to his price but once Seph learns his true identity…she sees he never had the intention of letting her go. The first third of the book is mostly recapping of the characters, and their progression throughout the series. The Vampire-Harpy sisters from the previous novel are still prisoners of the haven, and they cause problems when they learn of Beverly’s new ability. There wasn’t a lot of action, just two big scenes from what I can remember in the entire book but there was a lot of scheming between the characters, everyone trying to manipulate others to reach their goal. My favorite part of the entire book was the end when everyone is finally together. The scene with Seph, Johnny and Menessos in the kitchen looking out at everyone gathered around them totally made me tear up! I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to what lies ahead for the trio.
July 24, 2013
You know I’ve enjoyed Linda Robertson’s Persephone Alcmedi series so far — in fact I’ve practically inhaled these books… And I was so ready for Shattered Circle. After all, there are issues to resolve; some big, some small, but all need attention. And none of it waits for a girl to get some rest after the whirlwind she’s been through.
It’s like the world can’t manage without the Lustrata, even though it only very recently learned it had the Lustrata… And the Lustrata herself is learning how difficult it can be to juggle all of the responsibilities that are now hers, in addition to her relationships, and her ever-constant battle for diplomacy.
Then Beverly is seduced by ancient magic, and in saving her life, Menessos has also condemned it.
Shattered Circle is the book that comes along after (quite) a few that have set up the kick-ass-heroine-overcomes-obstacles-to-win-the-day rah-rah expectation, and stomps it into dust. Halfway through the book, I was looking for the pom-poms. Because this one? It’s sucked out all the verve that made Seph fab, and replaced it with a sticky, doubting, case of the blahs.
It seemed to take forever for the story to unfold, and even then it was more setting-the-stage than anything else. Also, all of the missed opportunities for Seph and Johnny to talk seemed contrived after a while, no matter what the reason. I mean, is the world really ending now, that you can’t leave a message or send a text? Seriously.
Then we get to the ending of Shattered Circle – and it was awesome — there’s action! Tension! Drama! General kick-assery! Yeah.
We did get new characters, though I’ll admit Creepy showed up in the last book. But hey, now we know who he is, and yeah, “Creepy” is a pretty darn apt nickname. And I’m wondering where all of these deities are going to end up… But I guess I get to wait with the masses for the next book to come out so I can find out. *sigh*
Seriously though. While I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the others, I know I’ll pick up the next one. Mostly because I want to know how things work out for Seph, Johnny, and Menessos.
drey’s rating: Pick it up!
It’s like the world can’t manage without the Lustrata, even though it only very recently learned it had the Lustrata… And the Lustrata herself is learning how difficult it can be to juggle all of the responsibilities that are now hers, in addition to her relationships, and her ever-constant battle for diplomacy.
Then Beverly is seduced by ancient magic, and in saving her life, Menessos has also condemned it.
Shattered Circle is the book that comes along after (quite) a few that have set up the kick-ass-heroine-overcomes-obstacles-to-win-the-day rah-rah expectation, and stomps it into dust. Halfway through the book, I was looking for the pom-poms. Because this one? It’s sucked out all the verve that made Seph fab, and replaced it with a sticky, doubting, case of the blahs.
It seemed to take forever for the story to unfold, and even then it was more setting-the-stage than anything else. Also, all of the missed opportunities for Seph and Johnny to talk seemed contrived after a while, no matter what the reason. I mean, is the world really ending now, that you can’t leave a message or send a text? Seriously.
Then we get to the ending of Shattered Circle – and it was awesome — there’s action! Tension! Drama! General kick-assery! Yeah.
We did get new characters, though I’ll admit Creepy showed up in the last book. But hey, now we know who he is, and yeah, “Creepy” is a pretty darn apt nickname. And I’m wondering where all of these deities are going to end up… But I guess I get to wait with the masses for the next book to come out so I can find out. *sigh*
Seriously though. While I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the others, I know I’ll pick up the next one. Mostly because I want to know how things work out for Seph, Johnny, and Menessos.
drey’s rating: Pick it up!
January 22, 2014
This one was once again written from alternating viewpoints, which tends to give alot more perspective on the various characters in the book. Makes it interesting.
Menessos has lost his position in the vampire hierarchy, and Johnny is dealing with taking his place in the Waerwolf one. Neither position is easy for either men. Add that Menessos has bound himself to two of the deadly harpies (not even going to try to spell their actual name) and to keep his former haven from thinking that he's nothing but a witches pawn, and he's got alot on his plate.
Meanwhile Johnny is dealing with a female Waere, sent from Europe to be his "assistant". She however wants nothing more than to be the woman behind the throne. He's also dealing with the raging anger and lust that were unbound with the full power of the beast, the rift between he and Seph, and some completely life altering news from the time before his memory was removed.
Seph meanwhile has her own problems. There is the usual manipulations from Menessos, the anger and fear of Johnny, the vampires who want to use her, and new problems which have developed with Beverly - Problems which put Beverly's life at risk, and make her a deadly threat to all the races. Finally, there is the Creepy situation that Menessos put her in, come back to bite her on the ass. A careless bit of meditating puts her in a very bad position. We finally find out who Creepy is and
This book didn't feel like it moved the story forward much, except possibly at the end. The three of them have to learn to work together, if they want to succeed where the other Lustrata have failed. Johnny took a step in the right direction there (And you go Nana, for kicking his butt over the situation!) Now if Menessos can just get his crap together and quit trying to manipulate everyone around him, maybe we'll get somewhere with the story. I have hopes, and I did enjoy this one more than the last. I'm looking forward to the next book more than I did the last few.
I gave this one a very solid 3 stars.
Menessos has lost his position in the vampire hierarchy, and Johnny is dealing with taking his place in the Waerwolf one. Neither position is easy for either men. Add that Menessos has bound himself to two of the deadly harpies (not even going to try to spell their actual name) and to keep his former haven from thinking that he's nothing but a witches pawn, and he's got alot on his plate.
Meanwhile Johnny is dealing with a female Waere, sent from Europe to be his "assistant". She however wants nothing more than to be the woman behind the throne. He's also dealing with the raging anger and lust that were unbound with the full power of the beast, the rift between he and Seph, and some completely life altering news from the time before his memory was removed.
Seph meanwhile has her own problems. There is the usual manipulations from Menessos, the anger and fear of Johnny, the vampires who want to use her, and new problems which have developed with Beverly - Problems which put Beverly's life at risk, and make her a deadly threat to all the races. Finally, there is the Creepy situation that Menessos put her in, come back to bite her on the ass. A careless bit of meditating puts her in a very bad position. We finally find out who Creepy is and
This book didn't feel like it moved the story forward much, except possibly at the end. The three of them have to learn to work together, if they want to succeed where the other Lustrata have failed. Johnny took a step in the right direction there (And you go Nana, for kicking his butt over the situation!) Now if Menessos can just get his crap together and quit trying to manipulate everyone around him, maybe we'll get somewhere with the story. I have hopes, and I did enjoy this one more than the last. I'm looking forward to the next book more than I did the last few.
I gave this one a very solid 3 stars.
February 3, 2013
Persephone Alcmedi's life has never been normal. She's dodged multiple attempts on her life, and she's still recuperating from her werewolf boyfriend's having tried to kill her. Deep inside, she yearns for a sense of normalcy, but she knows that's something she'll never have. Her new role as the Lustrata has ensured that fact.
Resigning herself to the way her life is now, she knows she'll need to be strong for those under her protection. She has her beloved foster daughter, Beverly, to think of, as well as Johnny and her new consort, Menessos. Fighting her feelings for both, Persephone does her best to accept the changes that have come her way within the blink of an eye. There's a lot that's expected of her. Yet, at times, she wonders if she'll be able to withstand the storm that's surely coming her way.
When Beverly turns up missing, Persephone realizes that she'll need to place her trust in the unlikeliest of foes. She knows there's treachery afoot, but if she's to get her foster daughter back in one piece, she'll need to play by the rules. To some extent, anyway.
She's grateful for the fact that Menessos has done everything possible to protect her and her family. Yet she knows that his doing so always comes with a price. Somehow, someway, he'll make her pay up - eventually. She's torn between her love for Johnny, and the feelings that continue to grow for the enigmatic vampire. Persephone understands that she'll need to confront the ghosts of her past as well as her feelings if she's to succeed in gaining the upper hand against her adversaries, once and for all.
I've a lot of catching up to do with series, but I've got to confess that I'm hooked. This was such an awesome story. It really was. I had a hard time putting the book down once I started reading. I think Linda has created such a complex, yet intriguing world that captures the reader's interest, and keeps it glued to the action and adventure that explodes across every page. I so look forward to what's to come for the series itself.
Resigning herself to the way her life is now, she knows she'll need to be strong for those under her protection. She has her beloved foster daughter, Beverly, to think of, as well as Johnny and her new consort, Menessos. Fighting her feelings for both, Persephone does her best to accept the changes that have come her way within the blink of an eye. There's a lot that's expected of her. Yet, at times, she wonders if she'll be able to withstand the storm that's surely coming her way.
When Beverly turns up missing, Persephone realizes that she'll need to place her trust in the unlikeliest of foes. She knows there's treachery afoot, but if she's to get her foster daughter back in one piece, she'll need to play by the rules. To some extent, anyway.
She's grateful for the fact that Menessos has done everything possible to protect her and her family. Yet she knows that his doing so always comes with a price. Somehow, someway, he'll make her pay up - eventually. She's torn between her love for Johnny, and the feelings that continue to grow for the enigmatic vampire. Persephone understands that she'll need to confront the ghosts of her past as well as her feelings if she's to succeed in gaining the upper hand against her adversaries, once and for all.
I've a lot of catching up to do with series, but I've got to confess that I'm hooked. This was such an awesome story. It really was. I had a hard time putting the book down once I started reading. I think Linda has created such a complex, yet intriguing world that captures the reader's interest, and keeps it glued to the action and adventure that explodes across every page. I so look forward to what's to come for the series itself.
March 14, 2013
This latest installment in the series is another good one. The point-of-view changes aren't jarring as they occasionally seemed to be in the previous volume, and the spell-verses aren't intrusive. One thing that struck me this time around is how tightly-woven the six volumes are; I hadn't really thought about how little time has passed from the start of VISCIOUS CIRCLE through to this one, which ends at Thanksgiving of the same season. I still felt that the werewolves were more convincing, interesting, and original than the vampires, though they seem to have come together at last. In fact, the theme of the series clearly becomes the importance of family, both of the blood kind and the kind you build yourself. (Which opens the question to the obvious joke of the next volume being called FAMILY CIRCLE... Maybe Billy and Jeffy and Dolly and P.J. don't age because of supernatural influence? They can't be vampiric because they go outside in the daytime with those weird dotted-lines following them around, but they're always hanging around with dead-Grandpa, so it makes you kind of wonder...) Anyway, the current volume winds up with a nice family gathering, which made me think that the Fellowship has finally come together and now they're ready to go get those Rings! It leaves the reader ready for the next volume.
(One side comment I'll offer having nothing to do with the story is that the cover seems a little strange. I had the idea that Persephone has reddish hair; she's called "Red" by her werewolf boyfriend, after all, and seems to have reddish hair on the previous covers. She has black hair on the cover of this one, and looks a lot more like Liv Tyler than the character in the five earlier illustrations. The cover artist doesn't seem to be credited; perhaps they changed.)
(One side comment I'll offer having nothing to do with the story is that the cover seems a little strange. I had the idea that Persephone has reddish hair; she's called "Red" by her werewolf boyfriend, after all, and seems to have reddish hair on the previous covers. She has black hair on the cover of this one, and looks a lot more like Liv Tyler than the character in the five earlier illustrations. The cover artist doesn't seem to be credited; perhaps they changed.)
January 30, 2013
*Contains spoilers about previous books in series*
It seems like every character in the series is drowning in problems individually as well as other issues as a group. Persephone is busy fighting off those out to kill her while trying to live up to the position of Lustrata. Johnny now has another person to protect on top of his new duties as Dom Lup, and oh yeah how does he tell Persephone? Menessos is busy with all the duties that stepping down as leader to his vampires brings. Beverly finds something she shouldn't mess with and goes missing for a bit. A lot is revealed that brings her even closer to the supernatural and piles on the difficulties she was already facing. Creepy is back, wow I wasn't expecting that. I would have never guessed who he really was or what his motives were. Persephone's romantic life is a bit whacked out. It seems like her and Johnny have grown apart a bit with their different roles to play and then their is Menessos on the sidelines who always seems to be there when she needs him most. By the end of SHATTERED CIRCLE a bit of growth has happened and is seems like they are at least all trying and seem closer then they have ever been.
I would not start this series from anywhere but the beginning, those that have enjoyed the previous books in the series will be happy with the way things are happening and growing. There is a ton of tension and revelations in SHATTERED CIRCLE and it is not to be missed. Not sure when we will be graced with book 7 but I'm hoping it wont be to far off.
It seems like every character in the series is drowning in problems individually as well as other issues as a group. Persephone is busy fighting off those out to kill her while trying to live up to the position of Lustrata. Johnny now has another person to protect on top of his new duties as Dom Lup, and oh yeah how does he tell Persephone? Menessos is busy with all the duties that stepping down as leader to his vampires brings. Beverly finds something she shouldn't mess with and goes missing for a bit. A lot is revealed that brings her even closer to the supernatural and piles on the difficulties she was already facing. Creepy is back, wow I wasn't expecting that. I would have never guessed who he really was or what his motives were. Persephone's romantic life is a bit whacked out. It seems like her and Johnny have grown apart a bit with their different roles to play and then their is Menessos on the sidelines who always seems to be there when she needs him most. By the end of SHATTERED CIRCLE a bit of growth has happened and is seems like they are at least all trying and seem closer then they have ever been.
I would not start this series from anywhere but the beginning, those that have enjoyed the previous books in the series will be happy with the way things are happening and growing. There is a ton of tension and revelations in SHATTERED CIRCLE and it is not to be missed. Not sure when we will be graced with book 7 but I'm hoping it wont be to far off.
January 29, 2013
Persephone Alcmedi has her hands full. She’s the Lustrata and the Erus Veneficus to Menessos’ successor. She’s not the only one who is dealing with a lot, though: her boyfriend Johnny is the Dom Lup (King) of the wærewolves, and Menessos has had to step down as leader of his vampire clan as Seph has marked him. All of this is going to come to a head when Seph’s foster daughter, Beverly, uses an artifact of Seph’s which called to her – showing now Beverly isn’t only human. Seph, Johnny, and Menessos are being challenged from all quarters. Blood will be spilled, deals will be struck, and no one will come out of this unchanged…
The tension and the action in ‘Shattered Circle’ are ramping up to something VERY big which we have yet to see. In my personal opinion, Seph, Johnny, and Menessos are the triumvirate which works. They’re all flawed and trying to figure out the best course of action while those around them, friend and foe, throw obstacles in their way. I love the layers of complexity which have been added over the course of the series and the growth the characters have shown. I am amazed at how well they’re able to deal with responsibilities which would have the average person running from in a heartbeat. ‘Shattered Circle’ is a great addition to this series and now I can’t wait for the next one!!
Persephone Alcmedi series: Vicious Circle (1), Hallowed Circle (2), Fatal Circle (3), Arcane Circle (4), Wicked Circle (5), Shattered Circle (6)
The tension and the action in ‘Shattered Circle’ are ramping up to something VERY big which we have yet to see. In my personal opinion, Seph, Johnny, and Menessos are the triumvirate which works. They’re all flawed and trying to figure out the best course of action while those around them, friend and foe, throw obstacles in their way. I love the layers of complexity which have been added over the course of the series and the growth the characters have shown. I am amazed at how well they’re able to deal with responsibilities which would have the average person running from in a heartbeat. ‘Shattered Circle’ is a great addition to this series and now I can’t wait for the next one!!
Persephone Alcmedi series: Vicious Circle (1), Hallowed Circle (2), Fatal Circle (3), Arcane Circle (4), Wicked Circle (5), Shattered Circle (6)
March 29, 2013
Eep! I see that the last book was leading us up to this one! All that confusion continues in this book and it is all captivating! We also get to find out who one of the characters introduced to us in the last book really is! Now I need to know what will happen next! *bounces up and down*
We also get multiple POV in this book. It's not confusing and it helps bring the story into full understanding. However, the most interesting parts were Persephone's adventure and when it would switch POVs I would want to yell. At the same time you wanted to know what was happening so you are kept in the loop. Yea, I can say that switch also ramped up the anticipation of what was going on and how Seph was going to get out of her predicaments.
Oooohhhh~ I wanna tell who Creepy is, but I can't spoil it!
*tapes mouth and fingers shut*
*whines*
I have to say I do like the ending and yet I didn't. I love how it came about, but it was a bit too sweet for me in the end. Still, I did like the idea of it. Even so, I have to say it was one huge adventurous ride.
I give this book 4 1/2 stars and I can't wait for the next installment. I recommend this whole series. I recommend someone read this series and talk to me about it so I don't spoil it for anyone else! I also recommend it to those looking for a different and fun UF. As I said before in other reviews, there is a triangle, but it is worked into the story so this one does make sense as to why it is there.
We also get multiple POV in this book. It's not confusing and it helps bring the story into full understanding. However, the most interesting parts were Persephone's adventure and when it would switch POVs I would want to yell. At the same time you wanted to know what was happening so you are kept in the loop. Yea, I can say that switch also ramped up the anticipation of what was going on and how Seph was going to get out of her predicaments.
Oooohhhh~ I wanna tell who Creepy is, but I can't spoil it!
*tapes mouth and fingers shut*
*whines*
I have to say I do like the ending and yet I didn't. I love how it came about, but it was a bit too sweet for me in the end. Still, I did like the idea of it. Even so, I have to say it was one huge adventurous ride.
I give this book 4 1/2 stars and I can't wait for the next installment. I recommend this whole series. I recommend someone read this series and talk to me about it so I don't spoil it for anyone else! I also recommend it to those looking for a different and fun UF. As I said before in other reviews, there is a triangle, but it is worked into the story so this one does make sense as to why it is there.
March 4, 2013
Shattered Circle is a refreshing installment of the Persephone Alcmedi series. It takes a little different approach than the previous books. There is still plenty going on with Menessos, his loosing his haven and having to take care of the three sisters and the havoc they wreck. Johnny is as unable to walk away from being Domn Lup as ever, threats coming from every direction at a time when he has even more to loose (can’t say what, would ruin the surprise if you haven’t picked up the series yet). And Seph finds herself separated from the men in her life, to fix things she is going to have to sacrifice herself and make a deal with the devil.
The majority of this book takes place with our three; Seph, Menessos, and Johnny apart. It reads different than the previous books, but is no less entertaining and engrossing.
You may have been wondering if things could go back to normal, particularly between Seph and Johnny. Well...that is just not going to happen. Too much is changing besides our characters themselves. They are growing, making choices that alter who they are. And don’t we love them for it? It keeps us wondering, oh does it keep us wondering.
Separate review posted at Reading Between the Wines blogspot:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
*copy courtesy of publisher
The majority of this book takes place with our three; Seph, Menessos, and Johnny apart. It reads different than the previous books, but is no less entertaining and engrossing.
You may have been wondering if things could go back to normal, particularly between Seph and Johnny. Well...that is just not going to happen. Too much is changing besides our characters themselves. They are growing, making choices that alter who they are. And don’t we love them for it? It keeps us wondering, oh does it keep us wondering.
Separate review posted at Reading Between the Wines blogspot:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
*copy courtesy of publisher
March 26, 2013
I have enjoyed this series, but this book is far enough in that it's hard to sustain interesting developments. And it showed in this book. There was little development of the main conflict of the series (and the obligatory sex scene was between a side character and someone even more minor, which makes me think it must be an actual contractual obligation, because, OMG, who wanted to see those two get it on??)
The Cousin Oliver character isn't, at least, a teenage girl (yes, I'm still bitter about the Kris Longknife books, Mike Shepherd). And he was technically introduced in the previous book. And, it must be said, it ended up less ridiculously than I'd feared.
So while it wasn't the strongest entry in the series, it wasn't enough for me to give up entirely, either. Although I am beginning to doubt whether there is an endgame planned for this series. Which, since the last Robert Jordan book is waiting for me at the library is a bit of a disappointment. (Of course, we'll see what I think, but the fact that that series ended at all is still slightly shocking.)
The Cousin Oliver character isn't, at least, a teenage girl (yes, I'm still bitter about the Kris Longknife books, Mike Shepherd). And he was technically introduced in the previous book. And, it must be said, it ended up less ridiculously than I'd feared.
So while it wasn't the strongest entry in the series, it wasn't enough for me to give up entirely, either. Although I am beginning to doubt whether there is an endgame planned for this series. Which, since the last Robert Jordan book is waiting for me at the library is a bit of a disappointment. (Of course, we'll see what I think, but the fact that that series ended at all is still slightly shocking.)
December 11, 2013
Persephone Alcmedi has her hands full. She's the Lustrata and the Erus Veneficus to Menessos' successor. She's not the only one who is dealing with a lot, though: her boyfriend Johnny is the Dom Lup (King) of the wærewolves, and Menessos has had to step down as leader of his vampire clan as Seph has marked him. All of this is going to come to a head when Seph's foster daughter, Beverly, uses an artifact of Seph's which called to her - showing now Beverly isn't only human. Seph, Johnny, and Menessos are being challenged from all quarters. Blood will be spilled, deals will be struck, and no one will come out of this unchanged...
The tension and the action in `Shattered Circle' are ramping up to something VERY big which we have yet to see. In my personal opinion, Seph, Johnny, and Menessos are the triumvirate which works. They're all flawed and trying to figure out the best course of action while those around them, friend and foe, throw obstacles in their way. I love the layers of complexity which have been added over the course of the series and the growth the characters have shown. I am amazed at how well they're able to deal with responsibilities which would have the average person running from in a heartbeat.
The tension and the action in `Shattered Circle' are ramping up to something VERY big which we have yet to see. In my personal opinion, Seph, Johnny, and Menessos are the triumvirate which works. They're all flawed and trying to figure out the best course of action while those around them, friend and foe, throw obstacles in their way. I love the layers of complexity which have been added over the course of the series and the growth the characters have shown. I am amazed at how well they're able to deal with responsibilities which would have the average person running from in a heartbeat.
February 8, 2013
Shattered Circle By Linda Robertson
Persephone, Menessos, and Johnny have faced many dangers, the have become more united through each testing of their relationship. In this situation would they be able to face their separate, desperate, and private struggles and still find a way to be tied together. Johnny has to come to terms with the waere world, the power struggles, and the strife of a violent and aggressive people. He has to figure out how to tell Persephone about his son Even, at this moment his choices seem to over weigh him. Menessos has lost his haven, to his vampire son Golith. He’s influence and power has barely saved Persephone from imitate death. His enemies are multiplying, his influence is waning, and he only wants to protect those he loves. Persephone has lost her trust in both men, seen what connections to her have cost each of them, and now she is struggling to survive the current situation and find balance in her family, her loves, and her life. This is a dark and very devious tale, with many more powerful enemies coming into our Heroines life, that make an almost insurmountable challenge to our fracturing family.
Persephone, Menessos, and Johnny have faced many dangers, the have become more united through each testing of their relationship. In this situation would they be able to face their separate, desperate, and private struggles and still find a way to be tied together. Johnny has to come to terms with the waere world, the power struggles, and the strife of a violent and aggressive people. He has to figure out how to tell Persephone about his son Even, at this moment his choices seem to over weigh him. Menessos has lost his haven, to his vampire son Golith. He’s influence and power has barely saved Persephone from imitate death. His enemies are multiplying, his influence is waning, and he only wants to protect those he loves. Persephone has lost her trust in both men, seen what connections to her have cost each of them, and now she is struggling to survive the current situation and find balance in her family, her loves, and her life. This is a dark and very devious tale, with many more powerful enemies coming into our Heroines life, that make an almost insurmountable challenge to our fracturing family.
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