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Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty-Hunter #2
Blood and Silver
“If Dirty Harry and Anita Blake had a love child, he would be Deacon Chalk” (Jenna Maclaine, author of Bound by Sin).
He has yet to meet a monster that could give him a scare. With ice in his veins, silver hollow-points in his chambers, and an innate ability to rise from the dead, what’s to fear? The answer may be something he doesn’t want to face . . .
Deacon Chalk normally has no trouble telling innocent victims from real monsters. So protecting an abused pregnant were-dog is a no-brainer . . . until a vicious lycanthrope leader and his brotherhood target Deacon, other shape-shifters, and any humans in their way. Suddenly, he is outnumbered, outgunned, and unsure of whom—or what—to trust. The only edge he has left is a weapon hungry for his soul and his most savage impulses. And using it will exact a price even this hell-raising hunter fears to pay. . . .
From the author of Blood and Bullets, this is an action-packed, gritty urban fantasy starring a hero who “kicks monster ass” (Faith Hunter, author of the Jane Yellowrock series).
He has yet to meet a monster that could give him a scare. With ice in his veins, silver hollow-points in his chambers, and an innate ability to rise from the dead, what’s to fear? The answer may be something he doesn’t want to face . . .
Deacon Chalk normally has no trouble telling innocent victims from real monsters. So protecting an abused pregnant were-dog is a no-brainer . . . until a vicious lycanthrope leader and his brotherhood target Deacon, other shape-shifters, and any humans in their way. Suddenly, he is outnumbered, outgunned, and unsure of whom—or what—to trust. The only edge he has left is a weapon hungry for his soul and his most savage impulses. And using it will exact a price even this hell-raising hunter fears to pay. . . .
From the author of Blood and Bullets, this is an action-packed, gritty urban fantasy starring a hero who “kicks monster ass” (Faith Hunter, author of the Jane Yellowrock series).
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
19 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
James R. Tuck
51 books236 followersI am the author of the Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty Hunter series. Book one, BLOOD AND BULLETS, will be out from Kensington Publishing February 7, 2012.
I write DARK URBAN FANTASY. It is gritty, it is violent, it is bloody, it is DARK. The monsters are monstrous and they do Very Bad Things. The good guys are Big Damn Heroes.
I write the ultimate thrill ride in the form of a book, just for you. I want you turning those pages as fast as you can while precariously balanced on the edge of your seat.
I write DARK URBAN FANTASY. It is gritty, it is violent, it is bloody, it is DARK. The monsters are monstrous and they do Very Bad Things. The good guys are Big Damn Heroes.
I write the ultimate thrill ride in the form of a book, just for you. I want you turning those pages as fast as you can while precariously balanced on the edge of your seat.
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August 28, 2012
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Hardcore bad-a$$ Deacon Chalk takes on a bunch of weres that are causing trouble in his town.
Opening Sentence: Good days don’t last.
The Review:
Things have been kind of quiet lately, ever since Deacon Chalk wiped out most of the vampires in the Southeast region of the USA. But there is always something to do, especially if you are an occult bounty hunter. So when Deacon and Tiff come across a dog being beaten to death, he doesn’t hesitate to step in. Now he has found himself involved within the political machinations of the were community, protecting a weredog and her unborn children, and maneuvering through the twisting and unsuspecting depths of the human (and not so human) heart. A bounty hunter’s work is never done.
Sophia, the weredog, is in a bind. The father of her unborn children, Marcus, is mated to another and his brother, Leonidas, would do anything to hurt him, including harming Sophia. It was lucky that Deacon came along when he did, or she would have died at the hands of a mad man (or lion, as it were). While Marcus is ignorant of his impeding fatherhood, he is still responsible for Sophia’s welfare. His pacifism and anti-violence stance means he is unwilling to compromise his morals and fight for her. Deacon, on the other hand, has no problem using guns to make his point. While Deacon’s new magical abilities are tested when it comes to helping out Sophia, it is his leadership that is really put to the test in this book. Sophia and others like her, non-predators, need someone to stand up for them. Is Deacon the right man for the job?
One of the best titles I have ever heard given to a monster hunter, and their ilk, is the “self-appointed Sheriff of Monstertown”; Deacon certainly fits the bill. He does fight for his own little territory and gives his protection to those he lets in to it. For a man that says his heart is long dead, he contradicts himself through his actions. It is his protectiveness (and penance toward violence) that makes this series worth the paper it’s written on. I like the fact that he is taking more and more responsibility for areas, and people, outside his personal club, Polecats. It allows the overall series arc to be more than just Deacon running around killing things, no matter how good he makes it look.
Tiffany, better known to her friends as Tiff, is the romantic interest. Deacon never sees it coming, but he can’t imagine life now without Tiff in it. She puts no demands on him, romantically or emotionally; allowing Deacon to make the first move at his own pace. Though most of Deacon’s heart still lies buried with his dead family, Tiff has managed to carve out a small spot to call her own. Her character is giving and supportive (with a touch of naughty) and is the perfect balance to an impulsive hard-a$$ like Deacon. She is able to help balance out his destructive tendencies and gives him something to look forward to, other than death. I am grateful that Tuck brought someone in for our lovable yet broody hero to give us hope for the future.
For fans, the fighting is just as intense and grimy as the first book. Deacon always is willing to share his unique perspective on things; including guns, girls, and guerilla warfare. His “insight” and code of conduct makes him a pair of $hitkickers among the high heels and ballet flats. And while I appreciate his softer side revealed by Tiff, I am happy to report that it doesn’t affect his work. James R. Tuck is one of my favorite up and coming authors!
Notable Scene:
“I don’t take hits. I am not a paid assassin.”
Boothe leaned up. “Listen, Marcus’s safety be damned. Leonidas and his crew are too dangerous to just let them do whatever they are in town to do. You appointed yourself the Sheriff of Monstertown. If you don’t do something to stop them, then people will get hurt.”
An objection formed in my mouth. It shriveled to nothing as my hand was bumped by something covered in soft, russet fur. I looked down. Sophia sat beside me, head rubbing my hand and blue eye tilted up at me. I thought about how Tiff and I had rescued her. I thought about the asshole who had tried to beat her to death, or at least beat her until she lost her babies. For that… well, for that I could kill someone. She sat up on her hindquarters and put her front paws up in the air.
I hate it when a woman begs.
FTC Advisory: Kensington graciously provided a copy of Blood and Silver. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. The only payment received came in the form of hugs and kisses from my little boys.
Quick & Dirty: Hardcore bad-a$$ Deacon Chalk takes on a bunch of weres that are causing trouble in his town.
Opening Sentence: Good days don’t last.
The Review:
Things have been kind of quiet lately, ever since Deacon Chalk wiped out most of the vampires in the Southeast region of the USA. But there is always something to do, especially if you are an occult bounty hunter. So when Deacon and Tiff come across a dog being beaten to death, he doesn’t hesitate to step in. Now he has found himself involved within the political machinations of the were community, protecting a weredog and her unborn children, and maneuvering through the twisting and unsuspecting depths of the human (and not so human) heart. A bounty hunter’s work is never done.
Sophia, the weredog, is in a bind. The father of her unborn children, Marcus, is mated to another and his brother, Leonidas, would do anything to hurt him, including harming Sophia. It was lucky that Deacon came along when he did, or she would have died at the hands of a mad man (or lion, as it were). While Marcus is ignorant of his impeding fatherhood, he is still responsible for Sophia’s welfare. His pacifism and anti-violence stance means he is unwilling to compromise his morals and fight for her. Deacon, on the other hand, has no problem using guns to make his point. While Deacon’s new magical abilities are tested when it comes to helping out Sophia, it is his leadership that is really put to the test in this book. Sophia and others like her, non-predators, need someone to stand up for them. Is Deacon the right man for the job?
One of the best titles I have ever heard given to a monster hunter, and their ilk, is the “self-appointed Sheriff of Monstertown”; Deacon certainly fits the bill. He does fight for his own little territory and gives his protection to those he lets in to it. For a man that says his heart is long dead, he contradicts himself through his actions. It is his protectiveness (and penance toward violence) that makes this series worth the paper it’s written on. I like the fact that he is taking more and more responsibility for areas, and people, outside his personal club, Polecats. It allows the overall series arc to be more than just Deacon running around killing things, no matter how good he makes it look.
Tiffany, better known to her friends as Tiff, is the romantic interest. Deacon never sees it coming, but he can’t imagine life now without Tiff in it. She puts no demands on him, romantically or emotionally; allowing Deacon to make the first move at his own pace. Though most of Deacon’s heart still lies buried with his dead family, Tiff has managed to carve out a small spot to call her own. Her character is giving and supportive (with a touch of naughty) and is the perfect balance to an impulsive hard-a$$ like Deacon. She is able to help balance out his destructive tendencies and gives him something to look forward to, other than death. I am grateful that Tuck brought someone in for our lovable yet broody hero to give us hope for the future.
For fans, the fighting is just as intense and grimy as the first book. Deacon always is willing to share his unique perspective on things; including guns, girls, and guerilla warfare. His “insight” and code of conduct makes him a pair of $hitkickers among the high heels and ballet flats. And while I appreciate his softer side revealed by Tiff, I am happy to report that it doesn’t affect his work. James R. Tuck is one of my favorite up and coming authors!
Notable Scene:
“I don’t take hits. I am not a paid assassin.”
Boothe leaned up. “Listen, Marcus’s safety be damned. Leonidas and his crew are too dangerous to just let them do whatever they are in town to do. You appointed yourself the Sheriff of Monstertown. If you don’t do something to stop them, then people will get hurt.”
An objection formed in my mouth. It shriveled to nothing as my hand was bumped by something covered in soft, russet fur. I looked down. Sophia sat beside me, head rubbing my hand and blue eye tilted up at me. I thought about how Tiff and I had rescued her. I thought about the asshole who had tried to beat her to death, or at least beat her until she lost her babies. For that… well, for that I could kill someone. She sat up on her hindquarters and put her front paws up in the air.
I hate it when a woman begs.
FTC Advisory: Kensington graciously provided a copy of Blood and Silver. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. The only payment received came in the form of hugs and kisses from my little boys.
August 1, 2012
Originally posted at http://www.fictionvixen.com/guest-rev...
Occasionally I need a break from the romance book world, when that happens I always look for a dark, gritty urban fantasy. James R. Tuck's second book in his Deacon Chalk series certainly fits that bill. Blood and Silver is fast paced, violent, and I was literally glued to the page while reading.
Deacon Chalk is a man on a mission, an occult bounty hunter who is out to kill any monsters he finds while avenging the family he lost and protecting the new family he has made for himself. This book occurs a scant six months after the events in the first book in the series, Blood and Bullets. While rescuing an abused were-dog Deacon finds himself facing off with a new enemy and in the middle of a lycanthrope war between two brothers. The only way he is going to come out of this alive is with the help of his friends: Tiff, Kat, Larson, Father Mulcahy and Charlotte.
I liked this book so much better than the first. Everything about this world has evolved since Mr. Tuck's debut book. The characters are better fleshed out, the world building is stronger and it just reads smoother. From the first chapter there is one action-packed scene after another. I could not tear my eyes away form the page. All kinds of new characters were introduced, from a were-shark to a T-Rex to a were-snake. I had no idea what I would find when I turned to the next page.
I like that Deacon and Tiff's relationship is growing. In Blood and Bullets we learn that Deacon's wife and children were murdered and this has led him to the life he lives now. He is the owner of a strip club named Polecats that helps him fund his war with the supernatural world. He constantly tells the reader throughout this story of his grief over the loss of his family, of how dark his pain has been. I wasn't sure how the introduction of Tiff in the last book would play out. It seems like the relationship between the two of them has been set up perfectly. They are what the other needs. She accepts him for exactly who he is and he has grown to love her for her strengths and softness. She knows and accepts how Deacon feels about his deceased wife, and he has come to the realization that by loving Tiff he is not in any way replacing his family.
Deacon is a hard, brutal man who is also extremely protective of those he considers his family. He immediatly welcomes the injured were-dog Sofia into his circle of protection. He is surrounded by friends who are all willng to die to protect each other. It seems with every book new people are added to this group, with this one we get two: Sofia and Boothe. While I think Deacon kicks ass, the secondary characters in this series hold him up and really make this book so much better.
The only complaint I have, and this bothered me in the first book also, is the constant discription of his weapons. Yes, he has a big gun. Yes, it has silver bullets. I don't need to know what kind of gun it is over and over. Colt 45s, AR-15s, Desert Eagle .357s... see what I mean? In every scene there was a run down of what weapons he had strapped to his body. And on Tiff's body. And Boothe's...
All in all Blood and Silver was the dark, gritty urban fantasy I was looking for. I was searching the author's goodreads page right after I finished to see when the next one is going to be released. I didn't see any mention of when that may be, but let's hope it's not too far away.
Favorite Quote:
"What do you want me to do to help?" George looked at me with brown gorilla eyes.
The T. rex was on his feet and looking our way. I stepped around the car and raised my gun. "You can be King Kong or Donkey Kong, I don't care which, just keep him busy and move him toward the play sets. If you think of a way to kill him, then even better." I began to run toward the dinosaur as he began to run toward me. The ground shook under my feet, rattled by the weight of my enemy.
Oh, this was going to completely suck
Occasionally I need a break from the romance book world, when that happens I always look for a dark, gritty urban fantasy. James R. Tuck's second book in his Deacon Chalk series certainly fits that bill. Blood and Silver is fast paced, violent, and I was literally glued to the page while reading.
Deacon Chalk is a man on a mission, an occult bounty hunter who is out to kill any monsters he finds while avenging the family he lost and protecting the new family he has made for himself. This book occurs a scant six months after the events in the first book in the series, Blood and Bullets. While rescuing an abused were-dog Deacon finds himself facing off with a new enemy and in the middle of a lycanthrope war between two brothers. The only way he is going to come out of this alive is with the help of his friends: Tiff, Kat, Larson, Father Mulcahy and Charlotte.
I liked this book so much better than the first. Everything about this world has evolved since Mr. Tuck's debut book. The characters are better fleshed out, the world building is stronger and it just reads smoother. From the first chapter there is one action-packed scene after another. I could not tear my eyes away form the page. All kinds of new characters were introduced, from a were-shark to a T-Rex to a were-snake. I had no idea what I would find when I turned to the next page.
I like that Deacon and Tiff's relationship is growing. In Blood and Bullets we learn that Deacon's wife and children were murdered and this has led him to the life he lives now. He is the owner of a strip club named Polecats that helps him fund his war with the supernatural world. He constantly tells the reader throughout this story of his grief over the loss of his family, of how dark his pain has been. I wasn't sure how the introduction of Tiff in the last book would play out. It seems like the relationship between the two of them has been set up perfectly. They are what the other needs. She accepts him for exactly who he is and he has grown to love her for her strengths and softness. She knows and accepts how Deacon feels about his deceased wife, and he has come to the realization that by loving Tiff he is not in any way replacing his family.
Deacon is a hard, brutal man who is also extremely protective of those he considers his family. He immediatly welcomes the injured were-dog Sofia into his circle of protection. He is surrounded by friends who are all willng to die to protect each other. It seems with every book new people are added to this group, with this one we get two: Sofia and Boothe. While I think Deacon kicks ass, the secondary characters in this series hold him up and really make this book so much better.
The only complaint I have, and this bothered me in the first book also, is the constant discription of his weapons. Yes, he has a big gun. Yes, it has silver bullets. I don't need to know what kind of gun it is over and over. Colt 45s, AR-15s, Desert Eagle .357s... see what I mean? In every scene there was a run down of what weapons he had strapped to his body. And on Tiff's body. And Boothe's...
All in all Blood and Silver was the dark, gritty urban fantasy I was looking for. I was searching the author's goodreads page right after I finished to see when the next one is going to be released. I didn't see any mention of when that may be, but let's hope it's not too far away.
Favorite Quote:
"What do you want me to do to help?" George looked at me with brown gorilla eyes.
The T. rex was on his feet and looking our way. I stepped around the car and raised my gun. "You can be King Kong or Donkey Kong, I don't care which, just keep him busy and move him toward the play sets. If you think of a way to kill him, then even better." I began to run toward the dinosaur as he began to run toward me. The ground shook under my feet, rattled by the weight of my enemy.
Oh, this was going to completely suck
August 4, 2012
Smitten's Review on Blog
My Thoughts
________________________________________
Strap yourselves in my lovelies for another wild ride. Deacon’s eye is twitching and that’s never a good thing. For the monsters that is. Things are going to get dead.
In Blood and Silver, the author puts a unique spin on the world of were-animals. Some are good; some are bad. Some want peace; others don’t. They’re at war and made the mistake of bringing it to Deacon’s town.
Since this is a series about hunting monsters, you can expect some scary and disturbing creatures. Very cool ones too actually! Even though Charlotte (the were-spider) is one of the good guys, she seriously creeps me the f*** out. I have a serious fear of spiders. But since she’s one of the good guys, I can deal.
This novel is a little darker and more violent than the last. Some scenes aren’t for the faint at heart. But that is the world of monsters the author has created for us.
Deacon Chalk: The Occult Bounty Hunter series is quickly moving its way up my list of favorite Urban Fantasy series. The stories are rich with excitement and have a nice balance of character development and action. The author’s voice is unique, novels are well structured and I’m entertained from beginning to end.
________________________________________
About the Story
________________________________________
In Blood and Silver, Deacon finds himself in the middle of a war between the Were species. In Deacon’s world (otherwise known as Deaconverse), there are not only werewolves and all the cool weres we normally read about. There’s everything from were-lions to were-sharks to were-rabbits, with a clear division between predators and prey. Just the same as in the actual animal kingdom.
The leader of the ‘predator’ weres wants to bring peace among all the weres; however, there is always a villain that doesn’t want peace. They like being the predator and having control over the ‘prey’ weres. And they want to keep it that way. So a battle over what regime will reign ensues. This battle finds its way into Deacon’s city and he inadvertently becomes embroiled in their war. And so the adventure begins.
________________________________________
About the Characters
________________________________________
If you follow me at all, you know I rave about my man Deacon. A lot. Why do I love this character so much? Well, besides all the obvious reasons (hot as hell, incredibly cool, a genuinely caring person with a heart of gold), he’s the tortured and tormented hero that we all love to read about. He struggles to deal with a sad and tragic past that never leaves his mind. He became a hunter of monsters to avenge the deaths of his wife and kids who were killed in a ritualistic slaying a few years back. Now, given an opportunity for love, he’s full of inner conflict thinking he’s being unfaithful to his wife and since he lives in a very dangerous world, he doesn’t want to put anyone else at risk.
He bravely takes on any type of baddie that is out to hurt humans or his friends. He’s tough as nails and kills these monsters without remorse. At times, actually, he seems to have a bit of a death wish. He misses his family so much that he considered taking his own life to be with them. But that is not an option for him because he’s religious and fears he won’t meet them in the afterlife if he does. He hopes he will meet something big and bad enough to do the job for him someday.
The supporting characters are all great and have their own stories to tell. This novel focuses more on Deacon. Which is a good thing. He’s grown a lot in this novel and he’s discovering a lot more about himself.
________________________________________
About the Writing
________________________________________
What strikes me most about the writing in this novel is the author’s use of description. Tuck has an exceptional ability to recount events and depict scenery paying a lot of attention to detail. Not to the point that its long and drawn out like some novels but smartly done with carefully chosen words. A testament to the expert skill of a very proficient writer.
Here are a couple of my favorite examples of great description and commentary. The first one describing a werewolf Deacon is meeting for the first time…
“Thick, silver-shot hair flowed into a beard that gnarled its way down to a massive chest. Long yellow canines showed through his smile. Black eyes stared out at me under overgrown gray eyebrows. A scar pulled one side of his face up, the skin taut over his cheek and forehead. His hands sat on top of each other like washed-up driftwood. Brown liver spots covered their backs. The knuckles were swollen twice as big as the finger bones with arthritis. He was a grizzled old Were, still dangerous despite his age. Maybe even more so because of it.”
I mean, a beard that gnarled it way and hands like driftwood …I've never read anything like it. Brilliant!
And the other describing a scene where the women in his life comforted each other…
“The three women huddled, drawing strength from each other. Larson and I were left out by virtue of our gender, so we sat quietly, reverent in the presence of something we could never fully understand…Women already come equipped with a core of steel-fiber strength, depths of resolve a man cannot comprehend. It’s not the dynamic strength men have, all power and show. It’s a strength of endurance, fortitude. It is the strength that allows women to conceive life and to carry that life until the day it can stand on its own. These three women were now one, a three-strand cord not easily broken.”
Beautifully written!
Blood and Silver is a fast paced novel with tons of action and thus a fast read. But not too fast or too much action that we miss out on character’s feelings and emotions. Perfect pacing. We get to see more of the inner workings of Deacon this time as this novel seems to be a tad more character-driven than the last. There are some characters that could be more developed, however, I’m sure as the series progresses; we will see more of their stories.
In Book #1, major characters got hurt. The author keeps it real in this regard. In the world these human monster-hunters live in, its bound to happen. Its sad and unpleasant but it adds to the reality of the story. In Book #2 there’s more of the same. What’s brilliant is that the author uses the character’s ability to continue on with an intestinal fortitude that is inspiring to say the least as another theme for the story. At least that’s how I thought about it. Yet another reason why I enjoy this series so much.
________________________________________
Bottom Line
________________________________________
Overall, this series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The author delivers another action packed adventure for Deacon and his band of monster hunters that’s both character-driven and action-filled. The author’s voice is unique, the novel is well structured and I was entertained from beginning to end. If you are into Dark Urban Fantasy with badass heroes, monsters and a good vs. evil theme, you will enjoy reading this series. I highly recommend adding this one to your To Be Read list.
Happy Reading!!
5 Stars – Absolutely Loved It!!!!
My Thoughts
________________________________________
Strap yourselves in my lovelies for another wild ride. Deacon’s eye is twitching and that’s never a good thing. For the monsters that is. Things are going to get dead.
In Blood and Silver, the author puts a unique spin on the world of were-animals. Some are good; some are bad. Some want peace; others don’t. They’re at war and made the mistake of bringing it to Deacon’s town.
Since this is a series about hunting monsters, you can expect some scary and disturbing creatures. Very cool ones too actually! Even though Charlotte (the were-spider) is one of the good guys, she seriously creeps me the f*** out. I have a serious fear of spiders. But since she’s one of the good guys, I can deal.
This novel is a little darker and more violent than the last. Some scenes aren’t for the faint at heart. But that is the world of monsters the author has created for us.
Deacon Chalk: The Occult Bounty Hunter series is quickly moving its way up my list of favorite Urban Fantasy series. The stories are rich with excitement and have a nice balance of character development and action. The author’s voice is unique, novels are well structured and I’m entertained from beginning to end.
________________________________________
About the Story
________________________________________
In Blood and Silver, Deacon finds himself in the middle of a war between the Were species. In Deacon’s world (otherwise known as Deaconverse), there are not only werewolves and all the cool weres we normally read about. There’s everything from were-lions to were-sharks to were-rabbits, with a clear division between predators and prey. Just the same as in the actual animal kingdom.
The leader of the ‘predator’ weres wants to bring peace among all the weres; however, there is always a villain that doesn’t want peace. They like being the predator and having control over the ‘prey’ weres. And they want to keep it that way. So a battle over what regime will reign ensues. This battle finds its way into Deacon’s city and he inadvertently becomes embroiled in their war. And so the adventure begins.
________________________________________
About the Characters
________________________________________
If you follow me at all, you know I rave about my man Deacon. A lot. Why do I love this character so much? Well, besides all the obvious reasons (hot as hell, incredibly cool, a genuinely caring person with a heart of gold), he’s the tortured and tormented hero that we all love to read about. He struggles to deal with a sad and tragic past that never leaves his mind. He became a hunter of monsters to avenge the deaths of his wife and kids who were killed in a ritualistic slaying a few years back. Now, given an opportunity for love, he’s full of inner conflict thinking he’s being unfaithful to his wife and since he lives in a very dangerous world, he doesn’t want to put anyone else at risk.
He bravely takes on any type of baddie that is out to hurt humans or his friends. He’s tough as nails and kills these monsters without remorse. At times, actually, he seems to have a bit of a death wish. He misses his family so much that he considered taking his own life to be with them. But that is not an option for him because he’s religious and fears he won’t meet them in the afterlife if he does. He hopes he will meet something big and bad enough to do the job for him someday.
The supporting characters are all great and have their own stories to tell. This novel focuses more on Deacon. Which is a good thing. He’s grown a lot in this novel and he’s discovering a lot more about himself.
________________________________________
About the Writing
________________________________________
What strikes me most about the writing in this novel is the author’s use of description. Tuck has an exceptional ability to recount events and depict scenery paying a lot of attention to detail. Not to the point that its long and drawn out like some novels but smartly done with carefully chosen words. A testament to the expert skill of a very proficient writer.
Here are a couple of my favorite examples of great description and commentary. The first one describing a werewolf Deacon is meeting for the first time…
“Thick, silver-shot hair flowed into a beard that gnarled its way down to a massive chest. Long yellow canines showed through his smile. Black eyes stared out at me under overgrown gray eyebrows. A scar pulled one side of his face up, the skin taut over his cheek and forehead. His hands sat on top of each other like washed-up driftwood. Brown liver spots covered their backs. The knuckles were swollen twice as big as the finger bones with arthritis. He was a grizzled old Were, still dangerous despite his age. Maybe even more so because of it.”
I mean, a beard that gnarled it way and hands like driftwood …I've never read anything like it. Brilliant!
And the other describing a scene where the women in his life comforted each other…
“The three women huddled, drawing strength from each other. Larson and I were left out by virtue of our gender, so we sat quietly, reverent in the presence of something we could never fully understand…Women already come equipped with a core of steel-fiber strength, depths of resolve a man cannot comprehend. It’s not the dynamic strength men have, all power and show. It’s a strength of endurance, fortitude. It is the strength that allows women to conceive life and to carry that life until the day it can stand on its own. These three women were now one, a three-strand cord not easily broken.”
Beautifully written!
Blood and Silver is a fast paced novel with tons of action and thus a fast read. But not too fast or too much action that we miss out on character’s feelings and emotions. Perfect pacing. We get to see more of the inner workings of Deacon this time as this novel seems to be a tad more character-driven than the last. There are some characters that could be more developed, however, I’m sure as the series progresses; we will see more of their stories.
In Book #1, major characters got hurt. The author keeps it real in this regard. In the world these human monster-hunters live in, its bound to happen. Its sad and unpleasant but it adds to the reality of the story. In Book #2 there’s more of the same. What’s brilliant is that the author uses the character’s ability to continue on with an intestinal fortitude that is inspiring to say the least as another theme for the story. At least that’s how I thought about it. Yet another reason why I enjoy this series so much.
________________________________________
Bottom Line
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Overall, this series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The author delivers another action packed adventure for Deacon and his band of monster hunters that’s both character-driven and action-filled. The author’s voice is unique, the novel is well structured and I was entertained from beginning to end. If you are into Dark Urban Fantasy with badass heroes, monsters and a good vs. evil theme, you will enjoy reading this series. I highly recommend adding this one to your To Be Read list.
Happy Reading!!
5 Stars – Absolutely Loved It!!!!
December 12, 2016
I've been binge reading this series in a week and this book is the best one so far. I love Deacon Chalk and his urban fantasy world.
After a good day out at the carnival with Tiff, Deacon witnesses a were-lion and his gang of thugs attacking a pregnant were-dog called Sophia and is determined to save her. So when other were-lions come to claim her as theirs, Deacon isn't very keen to let anyone take her. He is caught up in a turf war with two warring lion brothers who each want Sophia for something, a war which divides the local shifters and will bring Deacon's people face to face with monsters they never dreamed existed.
Deacon has been enjoying spending time with Tiff without dating, and thinking that things in his life are ok so it's not a surprise when carnage breaks out around him. Kat has started dating but her boyfriend is using magick which infuriates Deacon after what it did to his own family years ago. You know that is going to come back to bite big time at some point. Ronnie is trying to deal with being den mother to Charlotte's spider offspring and preventing them from attacking customers who get a bit grabby! Deacon himself is realising that he can heal and to some extent control and attack other supernaturals using his mind and the power from the Angel blood, which is really interesting to the plot. We get to see Charlotte and George again which is great and get introduced to Boothe the were-rabbit, Ragnar the geriatric wolf, the snotty Lord of the Forest were-stag, Lucy who body shares with a rhino spirit, Marcus the pacifist were-lion and his mate Shani.
Ooh but the bad guy shifters are sooo exciting! Were-Shark! Yes, a great white shark shifter who is so scary that he terrifies Charlotte! Were-Komodo! Were-Snake! Seriously how cool is that??? The battle between all these shifters on both sides was so entertaining in the motel scene that I was on the edge of my seat reading it. Throw in vicious Were-Lion, vampires and werewolves AND the awesomeness of a Were-Dinosaur!!!!! That was a serious WTF moment and I loved it! In the face of these monsters even Deacon is a bit concerned about their chances! These are battles on a huge scale where everyone has to use every bit of power and cunning they have just to survive, never mind defeat their enemies. Great stuff!
This was my favourite book of the three main novels just because of the sheer scale of the battles and the range of characters in it. There were sub plots featuring the emotional angst of Deacon, Tiff, Kat, Ronnie and Larson, all of which were pretty enjoyable. Deacon and Tiff are so sweet as a couple and he turns into such a teddy bear around her! They seem like an odd match but there is just something about the two of them together that I really like. Kat on the other hand, is making some really bad choices in men! Gah, I don't like Larson's attitude to Deacon at all. Stop whining and blaming Deacon for all your problems! If you hadn't been idiot enough to want to start chasing vampires, you wouldn't be in this mess!!! Grrr.
As always, the battles are brutal which is just how I enjoy them. There is the good mixture of kickass action, character development, emotion, tension and dry humour that I've come to expect in this series. It did not disappoint in any way. I loved our team of characters and hope we see a lot more of them in many books to come!
After a good day out at the carnival with Tiff, Deacon witnesses a were-lion and his gang of thugs attacking a pregnant were-dog called Sophia and is determined to save her. So when other were-lions come to claim her as theirs, Deacon isn't very keen to let anyone take her. He is caught up in a turf war with two warring lion brothers who each want Sophia for something, a war which divides the local shifters and will bring Deacon's people face to face with monsters they never dreamed existed.
Deacon has been enjoying spending time with Tiff without dating, and thinking that things in his life are ok so it's not a surprise when carnage breaks out around him. Kat has started dating but her boyfriend is using magick which infuriates Deacon after what it did to his own family years ago. You know that is going to come back to bite big time at some point. Ronnie is trying to deal with being den mother to Charlotte's spider offspring and preventing them from attacking customers who get a bit grabby! Deacon himself is realising that he can heal and to some extent control and attack other supernaturals using his mind and the power from the Angel blood, which is really interesting to the plot. We get to see Charlotte and George again which is great and get introduced to Boothe the were-rabbit, Ragnar the geriatric wolf, the snotty Lord of the Forest were-stag, Lucy who body shares with a rhino spirit, Marcus the pacifist were-lion and his mate Shani.
Ooh but the bad guy shifters are sooo exciting! Were-Shark! Yes, a great white shark shifter who is so scary that he terrifies Charlotte! Were-Komodo! Were-Snake! Seriously how cool is that??? The battle between all these shifters on both sides was so entertaining in the motel scene that I was on the edge of my seat reading it. Throw in vicious Were-Lion, vampires and werewolves AND the awesomeness of a Were-Dinosaur!!!!! That was a serious WTF moment and I loved it! In the face of these monsters even Deacon is a bit concerned about their chances! These are battles on a huge scale where everyone has to use every bit of power and cunning they have just to survive, never mind defeat their enemies. Great stuff!
This was my favourite book of the three main novels just because of the sheer scale of the battles and the range of characters in it. There were sub plots featuring the emotional angst of Deacon, Tiff, Kat, Ronnie and Larson, all of which were pretty enjoyable. Deacon and Tiff are so sweet as a couple and he turns into such a teddy bear around her! They seem like an odd match but there is just something about the two of them together that I really like. Kat on the other hand, is making some really bad choices in men! Gah, I don't like Larson's attitude to Deacon at all. Stop whining and blaming Deacon for all your problems! If you hadn't been idiot enough to want to start chasing vampires, you wouldn't be in this mess!!! Grrr.
As always, the battles are brutal which is just how I enjoy them. There is the good mixture of kickass action, character development, emotion, tension and dry humour that I've come to expect in this series. It did not disappoint in any way. I loved our team of characters and hope we see a lot more of them in many books to come!
August 31, 2012
4.5 Stars
How's the sex scenes?
Not much sex here, I'm afraid. But the story doesn't need it.
How's the story lines?
Amazing, well-written, dark and disturbing. This is not a romance.
Review
This is not a romance novel. There are some tender moments and a somewhat happy ending, but if you’re expecting the hero to be healed by his virginal heroine because she’s the only one destined to love him...this is not the book for you.
Deacon is destined to be with his wife. She’s dead.
Tuck’s writing is fantastic.
His sentences are punchy. His content is shocking - and the brevity makes the supernatural crazy town easy to understand. I did not read his first novel, yet Tuck’s descriptions of backstories and events never left me in the dark and never had me rereading a section to understand the facts.
I just got it. And his writing did that.
There’s a guy on the cover of "Blood and Silver" and I’m sure it’s supposed to be Deacon Chalk. But frankly, Tuck’s author picture is so darn scary that every time Deacon is mentioned I think of him. If I see Tuck at a book signing I’m keeping my distance. ‘Cause I know some creature with poisoned teeth is going to jump at him and Tuck’s gonna blow him away with his laser-pointed shotgun.
FYI - I thought shotguns sprayed a room and would hit anything. Tuck writes that this is incorrect. The man holds a shotgun on his website. If he says it’s so, then it’s so.
As mentioned above, there is some romance. Deacon is fascinated with Tiff and she with him. More than once their eyes linger and hands touch longer than needed. It’s very sweet. Especially when Deacon blasts that guy’s head off for threatening her. That was so kind hearted of him.
"Blood and Silver" is an intense, crazy, video-game like, wild, bloody adventure.
Deacon’s friends and associates are enthralling and every page I prayed they would finally win.
Sadly, they do not all survive.
This is not a romance novel.
But it's a damn good read.
I've uploaded a partial review to my Ravishing Romances Blog and the full review can be read here.
Disclaimer: No compensation was received for this review. ARC received from author Beverley Kendall at The Season and review was written for her site.
How's the sex scenes?
Not much sex here, I'm afraid. But the story doesn't need it.
How's the story lines?
Amazing, well-written, dark and disturbing. This is not a romance.
Review
This is not a romance novel. There are some tender moments and a somewhat happy ending, but if you’re expecting the hero to be healed by his virginal heroine because she’s the only one destined to love him...this is not the book for you.
Deacon is destined to be with his wife. She’s dead.
Tuck’s writing is fantastic.
His sentences are punchy. His content is shocking - and the brevity makes the supernatural crazy town easy to understand. I did not read his first novel, yet Tuck’s descriptions of backstories and events never left me in the dark and never had me rereading a section to understand the facts.
I just got it. And his writing did that.
There’s a guy on the cover of "Blood and Silver" and I’m sure it’s supposed to be Deacon Chalk. But frankly, Tuck’s author picture is so darn scary that every time Deacon is mentioned I think of him. If I see Tuck at a book signing I’m keeping my distance. ‘Cause I know some creature with poisoned teeth is going to jump at him and Tuck’s gonna blow him away with his laser-pointed shotgun.
FYI - I thought shotguns sprayed a room and would hit anything. Tuck writes that this is incorrect. The man holds a shotgun on his website. If he says it’s so, then it’s so.
As mentioned above, there is some romance. Deacon is fascinated with Tiff and she with him. More than once their eyes linger and hands touch longer than needed. It’s very sweet. Especially when Deacon blasts that guy’s head off for threatening her. That was so kind hearted of him.
"Blood and Silver" is an intense, crazy, video-game like, wild, bloody adventure.
Deacon’s friends and associates are enthralling and every page I prayed they would finally win.
Sadly, they do not all survive.
This is not a romance novel.
But it's a damn good read.
I've uploaded a partial review to my Ravishing Romances Blog and the full review can be read here.
Disclaimer: No compensation was received for this review. ARC received from author Beverley Kendall at The Season and review was written for her site.
July 6, 2012
If you are looking for graphic - very graphic - and gritty urban fantasy, you need to get to know Deacon Chalk. Deacon makes the average badass run away and think of a new career path. But, at the same time, Deacon will do anything to protect the family he has chosen.
Deacon's own family was killed by the monsters and in the process of killing them he was killed himself. A transfusion by an Angel of the Lord revived him and made him much more than human. He heals faster, can take much more punishment, and has some magical abilities. This story is about Deacon and Tiff finding a pregnant weredog and saving it from being beaten to death by some lion shifters. Turns out she is the advance part for Marcus, another lion shifter, who happens to be a pacifist and is encouraging both were predators and prey to live peacefully,
Unfortunately, Marcus has a brother named Leonidas who, along with his band of prey weres, comes along behind Marcus wreaking havoc. Deacon and the rest of the good guys have to find away to defeat Leonidas and the rest of the bad guys. But it won't be easy, among the bad guys are a were-Great White Shark and a were-Tyrannosaurus Rex.
My major complaint with this one is that it is repititious. Tuck keeps telling us things he has already told us: Kat had a bad time at the hand of a sexually sadistic vampire; Deacon doesn't want to talk about how his family died; Deacon is just waiting to die himself but suicide is a sin; Deacon died and was given blood by an Angel of the Lord which makes him superhuman and a quick healer. It's almost like each chapter was written separately and Tuck expected the reader to pause between them and need a refresher. I also have a minor complaint about Deacon's constant references to Tiff as "little girl." He is sleeping with her! Calling her "little girl" sounds kind of like he is some kind of pedophile.
The story is very descriptive with lots of descriptions of the various guns he wears and uses and has a lot of graphic violence but it is also a good story of a man who will do anything to protect those who need protecting from the monsters. This is the second full-length Deacon Chalk novel. Start with Blood and Bullets and catch the short story Spider's Lullaby to be completely up-to-date and to meet Deacon and his colleagues.
Deacon's own family was killed by the monsters and in the process of killing them he was killed himself. A transfusion by an Angel of the Lord revived him and made him much more than human. He heals faster, can take much more punishment, and has some magical abilities. This story is about Deacon and Tiff finding a pregnant weredog and saving it from being beaten to death by some lion shifters. Turns out she is the advance part for Marcus, another lion shifter, who happens to be a pacifist and is encouraging both were predators and prey to live peacefully,
Unfortunately, Marcus has a brother named Leonidas who, along with his band of prey weres, comes along behind Marcus wreaking havoc. Deacon and the rest of the good guys have to find away to defeat Leonidas and the rest of the bad guys. But it won't be easy, among the bad guys are a were-Great White Shark and a were-Tyrannosaurus Rex.
My major complaint with this one is that it is repititious. Tuck keeps telling us things he has already told us: Kat had a bad time at the hand of a sexually sadistic vampire; Deacon doesn't want to talk about how his family died; Deacon is just waiting to die himself but suicide is a sin; Deacon died and was given blood by an Angel of the Lord which makes him superhuman and a quick healer. It's almost like each chapter was written separately and Tuck expected the reader to pause between them and need a refresher. I also have a minor complaint about Deacon's constant references to Tiff as "little girl." He is sleeping with her! Calling her "little girl" sounds kind of like he is some kind of pedophile.
The story is very descriptive with lots of descriptions of the various guns he wears and uses and has a lot of graphic violence but it is also a good story of a man who will do anything to protect those who need protecting from the monsters. This is the second full-length Deacon Chalk novel. Start with Blood and Bullets and catch the short story Spider's Lullaby to be completely up-to-date and to meet Deacon and his colleagues.
July 17, 2012
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*First draft Review* 07/17/2012
If you like dark fantasy with lots of violence and a male protagonist who takes crap from nobody, you will enjoy this book and this series. Deacon Chalk is an occult bounty hunter who kills everything that gets in his way, or threatens his friends. Deacon isn't exactly fully human after dying and having his blood transfused by the Angel whom he saved. This is all background fodder that you would have learned about from reading the first book Blood and Bullets.
A full year has passed since the events of Blood and Bullets and this release. Deacon is forced to face a new enemy and all sorts of were beings like a T-Rex, and a were-shark in order to protect a female were-dog from being used and tossed away. I liked the fact that he basically made this new character, Sophia, part of his family along with Tiff, Kat, Father Mulcahy, and Larson.
My only real complaint with this story is Deacon's family issues. We know that they were killed 5 years ago, and that he thinks about them every single day and how one day he will be with them. He realizes that his job is not one where he will end up growing old and retiring nor can he just commit suicide because his faith precludes taking ones own life.
I think his relationship with Tiff has come full circle to the point where she actually accepts the fact that he is a dangerous man who does a dangerous job yet she knows that she will never truly replace Deacon's deceased wife. She also knows that by being WITH Deacon, her own life span will decrease as well. As long as the two of them are together, Deacon will put himself in harm's way to protect her and to payback anyone who harms her.
There is a bit of repetition in this story. You can't help but wonder why we continually need to have spelled out for us what happened to Kat at the hands of a sadistic vampire, or why Father Mulcahy serves alcohol while also being a priest on Sundays, or how Deacon saved the Angel from being tortured and raped and in return she saved his life.
If you can get past the blood, guts, gore, and repetition, you will definitely find this book and series worthwhile.
Expected publication: August 1st 2012 by Kensington Publishing Corp. (ARC Recvd 04/17/2012)
*Rating* 3.5
*First draft Review* 07/17/2012
If you like dark fantasy with lots of violence and a male protagonist who takes crap from nobody, you will enjoy this book and this series. Deacon Chalk is an occult bounty hunter who kills everything that gets in his way, or threatens his friends. Deacon isn't exactly fully human after dying and having his blood transfused by the Angel whom he saved. This is all background fodder that you would have learned about from reading the first book Blood and Bullets.
A full year has passed since the events of Blood and Bullets and this release. Deacon is forced to face a new enemy and all sorts of were beings like a T-Rex, and a were-shark in order to protect a female were-dog from being used and tossed away. I liked the fact that he basically made this new character, Sophia, part of his family along with Tiff, Kat, Father Mulcahy, and Larson.
My only real complaint with this story is Deacon's family issues. We know that they were killed 5 years ago, and that he thinks about them every single day and how one day he will be with them. He realizes that his job is not one where he will end up growing old and retiring nor can he just commit suicide because his faith precludes taking ones own life.
I think his relationship with Tiff has come full circle to the point where she actually accepts the fact that he is a dangerous man who does a dangerous job yet she knows that she will never truly replace Deacon's deceased wife. She also knows that by being WITH Deacon, her own life span will decrease as well. As long as the two of them are together, Deacon will put himself in harm's way to protect her and to payback anyone who harms her.
There is a bit of repetition in this story. You can't help but wonder why we continually need to have spelled out for us what happened to Kat at the hands of a sadistic vampire, or why Father Mulcahy serves alcohol while also being a priest on Sundays, or how Deacon saved the Angel from being tortured and raped and in return she saved his life.
If you can get past the blood, guts, gore, and repetition, you will definitely find this book and series worthwhile.
Expected publication: August 1st 2012 by Kensington Publishing Corp. (ARC Recvd 04/17/2012)
August 3, 2012
3.5/5
review request from the author
James R.Tuck always delivers high octane explosive action a bit like Bruce Willis in his Die Hard movies, and it's very entertaining to read about his fights and shoot-outs, however, this is a second book in the series, and I'm still struggling with his writing style.
I've noticed that with the book#1 - repetition, repetition, repetition. James is falling into this trap that Jennifer Estep struggles to free herself from. He keeps reiterating what happened to Deacon before. Yes, we do remember that his family was killed in a brutal manner, yes we do know that angel gave him a blood transfusion, that he loves his car and his big boy guns... but Gods, can we limit it to once maybe twice per book?
There is less repetition in book#2, so I can see the progress, and I would not have minded if his personal tragedy was coming back to him in flashbacks like PTSD. That would have been natural, so we'll see how it goes with later books.
I like Deacon. He is colourful, fleshed-out manly man. He knows he is bigger and meaner than most and he treats his woman very gently and tries to prevent her doing silly stuff like going and getting into a fight with monsters, because what normal human being with a healthy self-preservation instinct would want to kill themselves that way, right? So all his "baby, do what I say" in a fight or flight situations are great and realistic.
There are quite a few crazy scenes which made me sick to my stomach with worry and tension - first fight with lycantropes, Deacon's memory of looking for a missing girl, last showdown... James is masterful with his fight sequences, he is truly good at it, and sick bastards he is fighting with will give Anita Blake a run for her money.
That's why I root for the author to polish his writing style. Less repetion and more character development, especially secondary characters, please. More humor, which was present in book#1 but is absent in book#2.
This series has great potential and almost comic book-like characters, it will be perfect for fans of earlier Anita Blake and J.F.Lewis.
review request from the author
James R.Tuck always delivers high octane explosive action a bit like Bruce Willis in his Die Hard movies, and it's very entertaining to read about his fights and shoot-outs, however, this is a second book in the series, and I'm still struggling with his writing style.
I've noticed that with the book#1 - repetition, repetition, repetition. James is falling into this trap that Jennifer Estep struggles to free herself from. He keeps reiterating what happened to Deacon before. Yes, we do remember that his family was killed in a brutal manner, yes we do know that angel gave him a blood transfusion, that he loves his car and his big boy guns... but Gods, can we limit it to once maybe twice per book?
There is less repetition in book#2, so I can see the progress, and I would not have minded if his personal tragedy was coming back to him in flashbacks like PTSD. That would have been natural, so we'll see how it goes with later books.
I like Deacon. He is colourful, fleshed-out manly man. He knows he is bigger and meaner than most and he treats his woman very gently and tries to prevent her doing silly stuff like going and getting into a fight with monsters, because what normal human being with a healthy self-preservation instinct would want to kill themselves that way, right? So all his "baby, do what I say" in a fight or flight situations are great and realistic.
There are quite a few crazy scenes which made me sick to my stomach with worry and tension - first fight with lycantropes, Deacon's memory of looking for a missing girl, last showdown... James is masterful with his fight sequences, he is truly good at it, and sick bastards he is fighting with will give Anita Blake a run for her money.
That's why I root for the author to polish his writing style. Less repetion and more character development, especially secondary characters, please. More humor, which was present in book#1 but is absent in book#2.
This series has great potential and almost comic book-like characters, it will be perfect for fans of earlier Anita Blake and J.F.Lewis.
December 23, 2012
Still repetitive, still very much reminds me of a male Laurell Hamilton story minus the sex, angst, and fae. Lots of guns, lots of lycanthropes. Maybe he's trying a bit too hard to have different animals now. What's a were-shark doing on land? I just can't even picture it.
June 5, 2017
This is the second book in this series and if you thought the first book was an exciting action packed thrill ride, wait until you read this book! It is bigger, badder and even more of a thrill ride that is so exciting you can't put it down and if anything the author's writing has gotten better and better!!!
i adored this storyline and one of the things that that i really enjoyed reading about was Deacon and how you see more of his personality and a more caring and protective side to him as well as his ruthless side. in this book you see more of the characters from the first book as well as quite a few new characters as well so it's really enjoyable finding out more about them and the things that they have been through that makes them who they are. There is such a high level of care and attention put into this book by the author it makes you feel like you know each character personally and you can just imagine yourself in their world fighting alongside them and in my opinion that is due to an extremely talented and vivid author!!!
I can't recommend this book highly enough, it is a major must read once you have read the first book, well deserving of the 5* rating!!!
i adored this storyline and one of the things that that i really enjoyed reading about was Deacon and how you see more of his personality and a more caring and protective side to him as well as his ruthless side. in this book you see more of the characters from the first book as well as quite a few new characters as well so it's really enjoyable finding out more about them and the things that they have been through that makes them who they are. There is such a high level of care and attention put into this book by the author it makes you feel like you know each character personally and you can just imagine yourself in their world fighting alongside them and in my opinion that is due to an extremely talented and vivid author!!!
I can't recommend this book highly enough, it is a major must read once you have read the first book, well deserving of the 5* rating!!!
January 10, 2021
Now, Deacon has become my favorite bad@$$ hero. Whenever my demons start to stir I will be calling on him for help. I like his taking no prisoners attitude. His killing, and ask questions later attitude is my favorite. I'm glad he is creating a new family with the ragtag of individuals he help in his war against monsters. I'm happy that he has GOD's Weapons in his corner to fight for justice and liberation.
July 9, 2018
No-brainer… A lycanthrope brotherhood targets Deacon and other shape-shifters. They all band together and join forces to defeat a common foe. Deacon and his team help him settle the score. Brain candy for sure
June 17, 2017
love this series! on to book three and then the .5 books
more please?
more please?
September 4, 2017
character motivation is flawed, plot is flawed, and if a character must remind you every few pages how badass he is - maybe he is doing something wrong?
May 17, 2023
Interesting storyline but a lot of blood and guts. And a lot of very detailed fight scenes and descriptions of weaponry that I just wasn’t into.
July 26, 2025
pretty decent would read again
October 8, 2025
i enjoy the pace
August 27, 2012
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/08/27/...
Tuck is back with the 2nd novel in his Deacon Chalk series, and when I went back to re-read my review of the first book, I was happy to say that a lot of the elements that made the book a C read for me before were not as prevalent and bumped up my overall enjoyment of this book. This was a FABULOUS sophomore novel and I am looking forward to more from Tuck and the rag-tag crew of Deacon and his pals.
It’s been a quiet few months for Deacon, but one night changes all of that. He steps in to save a dog being beaten, and stumbles into a hornet’s nest of shifter politics and deadly family secrets. With his group of friends at his side, Deacon is convinced to help the local group of prey shifters stand up to the rogue group of predator shifters. But with a few guns and only a few fighters able to stand by his side, Deacon might be outmatched and outgunned, and lif as he knows it is threatened beyond his expectations.
I really enjoyed this book, and the more time I spent with Deacon, the more and more I liked him. So many times I’ve read male protagonists that I just didn’t really like. They were assholes and did jerk-like things, but Deacon is like a real southern gentleman. The death of his family still haunts him, but with Tiff in the picture now, he is starting to feel the ice crack around his heart. He is smiling more, and living life instead of just letting it pass by. I love that Deacon has such a huge and caring heart. Despite the fact that he kills monsters for a living, he also takes everyone and anyone under his wing and will protect them with everything he is. He’s the kind of hero that you can really root for.
I loved the action with the shifters too. Tuck has carved out a very unique way of looking at the shape shifter world, with predators and prey animals, and a hierarchy within that world that is twisted and screwed up beyond belief. I liked that it felt as if it had never been done before, and it was fresh and different and gave this book a feeling of individuality that I didn’t feel in the 1st in the series. I loved the twists and turns of who was a good guy and who was bad. I loved all the different shifters that Tuck introduced into the story, and how hard Deacon had to fight to take most of them down.
The book is brutal, it’s dark and gritty and there is a LOT of bloodshed. But it was also sweet at times, it had an ongoing romance that took a backseat to the action, but was also on the forefront of Deacon’s – and my mind. The romance parts really broke up the action and gave me a chance to recover from the craziness that was the rest of the book. I also really enjoyed the sense of family that we get from Deacon’s crew. They are all people he has saved and taken under his wing, and although they don’t have his Angel blood, they each have their own way of contributing to story, to Deacon and to the fight.
I was also glad to see more develop with Deacon and his power. I didn’t think it was explored enough in the first book, so seeing Deacon struggle with what he can do, taking it to the next level and using his gift for both healing and killing was great to see. Tuck has really started to take Deacon’s unique situation and make it his own, giving the series a new and fresh feel. I can’t wait to see what Deacon discovers he can do next!
All in all I was extremely happy with the 2nd Deacon Chalk book. Whereas I thought the first was a little unoriginal, Tuck has stepped out of the mold and created a unique plot with different shifter society and has taken Deacon’s unusual skills and highlighted them more and more. I love the addition of the romance plot, and the way the high-action and drama plot was broken up by more tender moments. I can’t wait to see what Tuck has in store for us and Deacon next.
I give Blood and Silver a B
Tuck is back with the 2nd novel in his Deacon Chalk series, and when I went back to re-read my review of the first book, I was happy to say that a lot of the elements that made the book a C read for me before were not as prevalent and bumped up my overall enjoyment of this book. This was a FABULOUS sophomore novel and I am looking forward to more from Tuck and the rag-tag crew of Deacon and his pals.
It’s been a quiet few months for Deacon, but one night changes all of that. He steps in to save a dog being beaten, and stumbles into a hornet’s nest of shifter politics and deadly family secrets. With his group of friends at his side, Deacon is convinced to help the local group of prey shifters stand up to the rogue group of predator shifters. But with a few guns and only a few fighters able to stand by his side, Deacon might be outmatched and outgunned, and lif as he knows it is threatened beyond his expectations.
I really enjoyed this book, and the more time I spent with Deacon, the more and more I liked him. So many times I’ve read male protagonists that I just didn’t really like. They were assholes and did jerk-like things, but Deacon is like a real southern gentleman. The death of his family still haunts him, but with Tiff in the picture now, he is starting to feel the ice crack around his heart. He is smiling more, and living life instead of just letting it pass by. I love that Deacon has such a huge and caring heart. Despite the fact that he kills monsters for a living, he also takes everyone and anyone under his wing and will protect them with everything he is. He’s the kind of hero that you can really root for.
I loved the action with the shifters too. Tuck has carved out a very unique way of looking at the shape shifter world, with predators and prey animals, and a hierarchy within that world that is twisted and screwed up beyond belief. I liked that it felt as if it had never been done before, and it was fresh and different and gave this book a feeling of individuality that I didn’t feel in the 1st in the series. I loved the twists and turns of who was a good guy and who was bad. I loved all the different shifters that Tuck introduced into the story, and how hard Deacon had to fight to take most of them down.
The book is brutal, it’s dark and gritty and there is a LOT of bloodshed. But it was also sweet at times, it had an ongoing romance that took a backseat to the action, but was also on the forefront of Deacon’s – and my mind. The romance parts really broke up the action and gave me a chance to recover from the craziness that was the rest of the book. I also really enjoyed the sense of family that we get from Deacon’s crew. They are all people he has saved and taken under his wing, and although they don’t have his Angel blood, they each have their own way of contributing to story, to Deacon and to the fight.
I was also glad to see more develop with Deacon and his power. I didn’t think it was explored enough in the first book, so seeing Deacon struggle with what he can do, taking it to the next level and using his gift for both healing and killing was great to see. Tuck has really started to take Deacon’s unique situation and make it his own, giving the series a new and fresh feel. I can’t wait to see what Deacon discovers he can do next!
All in all I was extremely happy with the 2nd Deacon Chalk book. Whereas I thought the first was a little unoriginal, Tuck has stepped out of the mold and created a unique plot with different shifter society and has taken Deacon’s unusual skills and highlighted them more and more. I love the addition of the romance plot, and the way the high-action and drama plot was broken up by more tender moments. I can’t wait to see what Tuck has in store for us and Deacon next.
I give Blood and Silver a B
March 11, 2013
While out on a date with Tiff, Deacon Chalk witnesses a were dog being severely beaten by a fellow shifter. He saves the pregnant dog and discovers that there’s a spike in violence occurring in the were community with the predator shifters attacking the weak prey shifters. The purpose and intent is unknown but a prominent shifter, who is negotiating peace, is traveling to Atlanta and Deacon is expected to serve as his protective body guard while there. In a society where the strong survive and the weak are but prey, this shifter could bring peace and end violence in the were community once and for all.
But there are those who like it the way it is and will do anything and everything to make sure a cessation in the existing status quo doesn’t happen. No matter the cost.
The best way for me to describe the feel of this book/series is to liken it to ‘John Carpenter-Vampire Hunter’ if that character looked like a bouncer, owned a strip club, had multiple tattoos, and drove a ’66 Mercury Comet. Deacon Chalk has all the cool weaponry and gizmos that would make MacGyver jealous with the street smarts to know how to use them in the most efficient manner. Most shifters and vamps avoid Deacon as his reputation in administering swift vigilante justice is legendary. Too bad no one informed the were population.
It’s been over five years since his own family had been killed, and while Deacon continues to have a death wish, he’s starting to form a family of sorts with his support team and rescued victims of the previous book. Together they are able to keep the human population ignorant of the evil surrounding them.
In this book the predatory weres are preying on their fellow shifters. Deacon saves one of them but gets pulled into the war as a bodyguard of one of the beings he’s made it his mission to get rid of. While protecting the peace negotiator he encounters were sharks, deer, snakes, spiders, T-Rex, rabbits, wolves, lions, hippos, and monkeys who aren’t as simple as they make themselves out to be. The humor of seeing the different shapeshifters interact with each other lightened an otherwise purely action packed adventure storyline as these characters paralleled their counterpart’s behavior in nature.
The action and fast paced adventure was non-stop. The shoot ‘em up fight scenes transitioned into the tear jerker life and death struggle scenes without any awkwardness. And just when you think it couldn’t get any more intense – it did. I really didn’t know for sure who the good guys and bad guys were which challenged my ever changing opinion as the story progressed. And if I failed to mention it, which I did, there is a blooming romantic element that is surfacing that I would have personally liked to have been showcased in a more prominent manner. The “are they or aren’t they” drove me crazy which I guess was the intent by the author. The end result of this is: to be continued.
The total package of this book and series will appeal to a broad fan base of those who have an interest in the paranormal/horror/adventure genre. Deacon Chalk is a charismatic hero with a take no prisoner attitude who knows what true evil is and is willing and able to sacrifice himself to keep the human race safe. The one cautionary note I will say is that you really need to read book one before this one as I can’t in all fairness classify this one as a stand alone read.
But there are those who like it the way it is and will do anything and everything to make sure a cessation in the existing status quo doesn’t happen. No matter the cost.
The best way for me to describe the feel of this book/series is to liken it to ‘John Carpenter-Vampire Hunter’ if that character looked like a bouncer, owned a strip club, had multiple tattoos, and drove a ’66 Mercury Comet. Deacon Chalk has all the cool weaponry and gizmos that would make MacGyver jealous with the street smarts to know how to use them in the most efficient manner. Most shifters and vamps avoid Deacon as his reputation in administering swift vigilante justice is legendary. Too bad no one informed the were population.
It’s been over five years since his own family had been killed, and while Deacon continues to have a death wish, he’s starting to form a family of sorts with his support team and rescued victims of the previous book. Together they are able to keep the human population ignorant of the evil surrounding them.
In this book the predatory weres are preying on their fellow shifters. Deacon saves one of them but gets pulled into the war as a bodyguard of one of the beings he’s made it his mission to get rid of. While protecting the peace negotiator he encounters were sharks, deer, snakes, spiders, T-Rex, rabbits, wolves, lions, hippos, and monkeys who aren’t as simple as they make themselves out to be. The humor of seeing the different shapeshifters interact with each other lightened an otherwise purely action packed adventure storyline as these characters paralleled their counterpart’s behavior in nature.
The action and fast paced adventure was non-stop. The shoot ‘em up fight scenes transitioned into the tear jerker life and death struggle scenes without any awkwardness. And just when you think it couldn’t get any more intense – it did. I really didn’t know for sure who the good guys and bad guys were which challenged my ever changing opinion as the story progressed. And if I failed to mention it, which I did, there is a blooming romantic element that is surfacing that I would have personally liked to have been showcased in a more prominent manner. The “are they or aren’t they” drove me crazy which I guess was the intent by the author. The end result of this is: to be continued.
The total package of this book and series will appeal to a broad fan base of those who have an interest in the paranormal/horror/adventure genre. Deacon Chalk is a charismatic hero with a take no prisoner attitude who knows what true evil is and is willing and able to sacrifice himself to keep the human race safe. The one cautionary note I will say is that you really need to read book one before this one as I can’t in all fairness classify this one as a stand alone read.
March 29, 2013
Deacon Chalk can’t enjoy a good day – something bad always happens that he can’t ignore. This time it was a man beating a dog. But when he intervened he found that the man was no man – and the dog no simple dog either. He quickly becomes the rescuer of a lycanthrope and facing off against an entire pack of predatory shapeshifters
But more, he has stepped into a civil war – between predatory shapeshifters who wish to dominate, kill and control prey species as they always have – and those who are seeking for a more egalitarian co-existence. This, combined with Charlotte’s involvement and the fact the predators are just bad guys Deacon Chalk doesn’t want in his city is reason enough for him to get involved.
But things are not that simple – and whatever the mission of the peaceful weres is, they’re clearly more than they seem and perhaps more than Deacon Chalk can tolerate. Especially since he’s putting his friends, his people at risk for someone else’s war.
This book is one of those that vindicates my habit of not giving up on a series just because the first book (or the first several books) didn’t work for me.
It’s not that this book is radically different from the first book – it isn’t. Much of the style remains the same – so it’s still very much a male power fantasy, it’s still a book of getting the girl, saving he innocent and running around in a big car with a big gun and blowing stuff up and beating stuff up and cutting stuff up while the character equally gets mauled himself in a big, dramatic, gorefest action-movie style romp.
It’s not sophisticated, it’s not subtle and it’s not going to engage too many brain cells – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be immense fun! There’s a weredinosaur for crying out loud! A weredinosaur! Your arguments are invalid!
What has happened is that a lot of the irritants that were in book 1 have been toned down a lot. They’re still there, but in a much much much less annoying fashion. So is it still long winded? Yes, but it’s not nearly as repetitive – we get the long spiel about his guns, once. Not four or five times. And the spiel’s not as long. He waxes lyrically about how amazing his car is – but he doesn’t do it every few pages. We hear what music he’s listening to, but we don’t get treated to the Deacon Chalk guide to all things musical. This helps, this helps so much that I don’t have feel like I have to skim past endless pointless irrelevancies to try and drag the actual story out from the fluff.
We also don’t have Deacon Chalk being fawned over by a vast crowd of adoring fans (especially women) who play groupie to let us know just how amazing Chalk is. We know he’s done some good stuff, we know he’s helped people, but it’s toned down on the flock of fanpoodles. This could be because, with Tiff, we now have an established love interest and the flock of adoring women wouldn’t work as well.
And we don’t have the massive info dumps about the world – only what is appropriate as it is appropriate and without the constant repetition and long winded delivery.
Read More
But more, he has stepped into a civil war – between predatory shapeshifters who wish to dominate, kill and control prey species as they always have – and those who are seeking for a more egalitarian co-existence. This, combined with Charlotte’s involvement and the fact the predators are just bad guys Deacon Chalk doesn’t want in his city is reason enough for him to get involved.
But things are not that simple – and whatever the mission of the peaceful weres is, they’re clearly more than they seem and perhaps more than Deacon Chalk can tolerate. Especially since he’s putting his friends, his people at risk for someone else’s war.
This book is one of those that vindicates my habit of not giving up on a series just because the first book (or the first several books) didn’t work for me.
It’s not that this book is radically different from the first book – it isn’t. Much of the style remains the same – so it’s still very much a male power fantasy, it’s still a book of getting the girl, saving he innocent and running around in a big car with a big gun and blowing stuff up and beating stuff up and cutting stuff up while the character equally gets mauled himself in a big, dramatic, gorefest action-movie style romp.
It’s not sophisticated, it’s not subtle and it’s not going to engage too many brain cells – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be immense fun! There’s a weredinosaur for crying out loud! A weredinosaur! Your arguments are invalid!
What has happened is that a lot of the irritants that were in book 1 have been toned down a lot. They’re still there, but in a much much much less annoying fashion. So is it still long winded? Yes, but it’s not nearly as repetitive – we get the long spiel about his guns, once. Not four or five times. And the spiel’s not as long. He waxes lyrically about how amazing his car is – but he doesn’t do it every few pages. We hear what music he’s listening to, but we don’t get treated to the Deacon Chalk guide to all things musical. This helps, this helps so much that I don’t have feel like I have to skim past endless pointless irrelevancies to try and drag the actual story out from the fluff.
We also don’t have Deacon Chalk being fawned over by a vast crowd of adoring fans (especially women) who play groupie to let us know just how amazing Chalk is. We know he’s done some good stuff, we know he’s helped people, but it’s toned down on the flock of fanpoodles. This could be because, with Tiff, we now have an established love interest and the flock of adoring women wouldn’t work as well.
And we don’t have the massive info dumps about the world – only what is appropriate as it is appropriate and without the constant repetition and long winded delivery.
Read More
June 13, 2013
Book Info: Genre: Urban Fantasy
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of darker urban fantasy with male-oriented action
Trigger Warnings: rape and sexual assault (including against a child); murder and torture (including children)
Animal Abuse: This book was heavily filled with various types of were-animals. There is a lot of violence perpetuated against animals as a result.
My Thoughts: Leonidas and his crew absolutely infuriated me. The things they did... okay, yeah, so they were predator were-animals, but they choose to murder, torture, even eat people, including children—including babies. Horrible people, and I cheered Deacon on to each and every horrible death against them.
This book has all kinds of crazy were-animals: were-chickens, were-rabbits, were-lions, were-cougars, were-dogs of various types, were-lizards, were-snakes... you name it, there is probably a were-animal of its ilk connected to this story. The best was toward the end, but I don't dare say what it is because that would spoil the surprise.
I'm really into this story, that's for sure. I have one novella and one novel to go and I'll have finished the lot, and then will have to impatiently wait for Tuck to write something new. I really like this type of urban fantasy, without constant romance. There is a bit of romance, but it's bearable and overwhelmed by all the violence, so this is really my sort of thing. If you like darker urban fantasy, action-oriented, male-centric, definitely check out the Deacon Chalk series.
Series Information: Blood and Silver is Book 2 in the Deacon Chalk series
Book .5: That Thing at the Zoo, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1: Blood and Bullets, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1.5: Spider's Lullaby, review linked here where formatting allowed
Book 2.5: Circus of Blood
Book 3: Blood and Magick
Disclosure: I purchased this book for myself. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: He hasn’t met a monster yet that could give him a scare. With ice in his veins, silver hollow-points in his chambers, and an innate ability to rise from the dead, what’s to fear? The answer may be something he doesn’t want to face…
Deacon Chalk normally has no trouble telling innocent victims from real monsters. So protecting an abused pregnant were-dog is a no-brainer… until a vicious lycanthrope leader and his brotherhood target Deacon, other shape-shifters, and any humans in their way. Suddenly, Deacon is outnumbered, outgunned, and unsure who—or what—to trust. The only edge he has left is a weapon hungry for his soul and his most savage impulses. And using it will exact a price even this hell-raising hunter fears to pay…
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of darker urban fantasy with male-oriented action
Trigger Warnings: rape and sexual assault (including against a child); murder and torture (including children)
Animal Abuse: This book was heavily filled with various types of were-animals. There is a lot of violence perpetuated against animals as a result.
My Thoughts: Leonidas and his crew absolutely infuriated me. The things they did... okay, yeah, so they were predator were-animals, but they choose to murder, torture, even eat people, including children—including babies. Horrible people, and I cheered Deacon on to each and every horrible death against them.
This book has all kinds of crazy were-animals: were-chickens, were-rabbits, were-lions, were-cougars, were-dogs of various types, were-lizards, were-snakes... you name it, there is probably a were-animal of its ilk connected to this story. The best was toward the end, but I don't dare say what it is because that would spoil the surprise.
I'm really into this story, that's for sure. I have one novella and one novel to go and I'll have finished the lot, and then will have to impatiently wait for Tuck to write something new. I really like this type of urban fantasy, without constant romance. There is a bit of romance, but it's bearable and overwhelmed by all the violence, so this is really my sort of thing. If you like darker urban fantasy, action-oriented, male-centric, definitely check out the Deacon Chalk series.
Series Information: Blood and Silver is Book 2 in the Deacon Chalk series
Book .5: That Thing at the Zoo, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1: Blood and Bullets, review linked here where formatting allowed.
Book 1.5: Spider's Lullaby, review linked here where formatting allowed
Book 2.5: Circus of Blood
Book 3: Blood and Magick
Disclosure: I purchased this book for myself. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: He hasn’t met a monster yet that could give him a scare. With ice in his veins, silver hollow-points in his chambers, and an innate ability to rise from the dead, what’s to fear? The answer may be something he doesn’t want to face…
Deacon Chalk normally has no trouble telling innocent victims from real monsters. So protecting an abused pregnant were-dog is a no-brainer… until a vicious lycanthrope leader and his brotherhood target Deacon, other shape-shifters, and any humans in their way. Suddenly, Deacon is outnumbered, outgunned, and unsure who—or what—to trust. The only edge he has left is a weapon hungry for his soul and his most savage impulses. And using it will exact a price even this hell-raising hunter fears to pay…
August 17, 2012
Reviewed for www.bookchickcity.com
BLOOD AND SILVER is book two in James R. Tuck’s Deacon Chalk series, a man whose family were murdered by a supernatural evil and since then has dedicated his life to stopping them. The writing has definitely much improved in this book in comparison to the first. Ok, there were times when you can tell that Tuck is quite a new writer. For example there were several parts of the back story that were repeated on more than one occasion. However, overall it’s definitely tighter.
The story is a bloody, gritty and violent urban fantasy fest. Weapons, bombs, guns and explosions galore. What has really moved on is the world building, it’s worth reading just for the imaginative different were-creatures Tuck keeps coming up with. Just when I thought he’s come up with the best with a were-shark, he chucks in the ultimate terrifying were-baddie in the finale. I’m not telling you, you have to read it
The book opens with a bang, Tuck certainly knows how to grab your attention and I was sucked in within minutes. Submerged into the action. Chalk is a great, dark hero. There are times he really reminds me of a male Anita Blake, even with some of his lines:
I stared back, deep inside the cold place that lets me kill.
Hamilton fans might find that it sounds familiar? He’s a hit first type of guy and very much wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s the kind of guy who will die for his friends and those he believes needs protecting. And most importantly he’s cool.
When he comes across a pregnant shifter in desperate need of help, you know that Chalk will blow up everyone in his way in order to do so. Even if by doing so he ends up pulled right into the middle of a were-animal war. Luckily he has plenty of grenades ready for the job!
He’s got a great group of sidekicks too. Now I’m a huge arachnophobe, but I found myself growing very fond of Charlotte the were-spider. Never thought I’d say that! It was great to see Larson back in a new mature form, we met him in book one where he was terribly injured. He’s moved on and found his place in the group. I’m not sure where he got all of his medical skills from, but in the end it didn’t really matter.
One part of the story I’m not totally convinced on is the love story. Chalk is one hell of a man, and Tiff just seems too young for him. I like the fact he is moving on, but I feel like he needs more of a woman. Now a Charlotte/Chalk love story that could be interesting…! I suspect though that Tiff may be here to stay, and developments at the end of the story might help her become the woman I want for him.
VERDICT:
Fans of gritty urban fantasy should have their eye on Tuck. Deacon Chalk is a dark, violent and caring hero that gives the baddies a reason to be scared. I suspect the writing in this series is only going to improve as it progresses. I look forward to book three.
RATING: 3.5/5
BLOOD AND SILVER is book two in James R. Tuck’s Deacon Chalk series, a man whose family were murdered by a supernatural evil and since then has dedicated his life to stopping them. The writing has definitely much improved in this book in comparison to the first. Ok, there were times when you can tell that Tuck is quite a new writer. For example there were several parts of the back story that were repeated on more than one occasion. However, overall it’s definitely tighter.
The story is a bloody, gritty and violent urban fantasy fest. Weapons, bombs, guns and explosions galore. What has really moved on is the world building, it’s worth reading just for the imaginative different were-creatures Tuck keeps coming up with. Just when I thought he’s come up with the best with a were-shark, he chucks in the ultimate terrifying were-baddie in the finale. I’m not telling you, you have to read it
The book opens with a bang, Tuck certainly knows how to grab your attention and I was sucked in within minutes. Submerged into the action. Chalk is a great, dark hero. There are times he really reminds me of a male Anita Blake, even with some of his lines:
I stared back, deep inside the cold place that lets me kill.
Hamilton fans might find that it sounds familiar? He’s a hit first type of guy and very much wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s the kind of guy who will die for his friends and those he believes needs protecting. And most importantly he’s cool.
When he comes across a pregnant shifter in desperate need of help, you know that Chalk will blow up everyone in his way in order to do so. Even if by doing so he ends up pulled right into the middle of a were-animal war. Luckily he has plenty of grenades ready for the job!
He’s got a great group of sidekicks too. Now I’m a huge arachnophobe, but I found myself growing very fond of Charlotte the were-spider. Never thought I’d say that! It was great to see Larson back in a new mature form, we met him in book one where he was terribly injured. He’s moved on and found his place in the group. I’m not sure where he got all of his medical skills from, but in the end it didn’t really matter.
One part of the story I’m not totally convinced on is the love story. Chalk is one hell of a man, and Tiff just seems too young for him. I like the fact he is moving on, but I feel like he needs more of a woman. Now a Charlotte/Chalk love story that could be interesting…! I suspect though that Tiff may be here to stay, and developments at the end of the story might help her become the woman I want for him.
VERDICT:
Fans of gritty urban fantasy should have their eye on Tuck. Deacon Chalk is a dark, violent and caring hero that gives the baddies a reason to be scared. I suspect the writing in this series is only going to improve as it progresses. I look forward to book three.
RATING: 3.5/5
August 3, 2012
Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..
As a tough as nails monster hunter, Deacon Chalk spends every free moment tracking down the things that go bump in the night. With unique abilities and an uncanny ability to avoid death, it would seem nothing can stand in his way, no matter how strong his opponent may be. When he stumbles across a pregnant were-dog being beat to death by a nasty lycanthrope group, he rushes in to save her. However, this time he may have bitten off more than he can chew as he has put himself in the middle of a shifters war. With Deacon and his crew right in the path of danger, there will be no easy solution, and this time around the costs may be too high to bear.
While Deacon still has quite the chip on his shoulder, his conceitedness seems to have toned down several notches, making him much more bearable. I think a lot of his softening is due mostly in part to the influence Tiff has on him. Of course that relationship is quite complicated due to his inability to really move beyond the loss of his family and fully open up to another person. However, there is definitely something growing between them, and I really admire her patience and ability to slowly break down his walls. Another major improvement in his character would be the lessening of the constant lectures. Deacon may still be rather repetitive at times, but at least he didn't comes across as so preachy this time around.
The extremely graphic violence in Blood and Silver was a little too much for my tastes. Considering the fact that I read a lot of Urban Fantasy novels in which there is more than plenty violence, it really says something about how excessively violent Blood and Silver was to bother me. Perhaps, it isn't really the amount the violence, but more how descriptive it all was. It just seemed like the book was written with the theory of the more gore and violence, the better. I'm just not a fan of violence for the sake of violence. If it doesn't serve to fully further the story, then I think it should be toned down at the very least.
Despite my attachment to the majority of the side characters and the interesting mythology, in all honesty I highly doubt I will be reading anything more from this series. It is just too far on the pulp fiction spectrum rather than Urban Fantasy despite the heavy paranormal aspects of the story. Granted, Blood and Silver did earn a slightly higher rating from me than the previous installment, but in the end it just didn't work well enough for me to warrant continuing on. That being said, the series does seem to be headed in the right direction due to Deacon's growth. Combine that with the great secondary cast and the paranormal aspects, and excessive violence aside, I think Blood and Silver was a solid installment, and will largely appeal to fans of the first book.
As a tough as nails monster hunter, Deacon Chalk spends every free moment tracking down the things that go bump in the night. With unique abilities and an uncanny ability to avoid death, it would seem nothing can stand in his way, no matter how strong his opponent may be. When he stumbles across a pregnant were-dog being beat to death by a nasty lycanthrope group, he rushes in to save her. However, this time he may have bitten off more than he can chew as he has put himself in the middle of a shifters war. With Deacon and his crew right in the path of danger, there will be no easy solution, and this time around the costs may be too high to bear.
While Deacon still has quite the chip on his shoulder, his conceitedness seems to have toned down several notches, making him much more bearable. I think a lot of his softening is due mostly in part to the influence Tiff has on him. Of course that relationship is quite complicated due to his inability to really move beyond the loss of his family and fully open up to another person. However, there is definitely something growing between them, and I really admire her patience and ability to slowly break down his walls. Another major improvement in his character would be the lessening of the constant lectures. Deacon may still be rather repetitive at times, but at least he didn't comes across as so preachy this time around.
The extremely graphic violence in Blood and Silver was a little too much for my tastes. Considering the fact that I read a lot of Urban Fantasy novels in which there is more than plenty violence, it really says something about how excessively violent Blood and Silver was to bother me. Perhaps, it isn't really the amount the violence, but more how descriptive it all was. It just seemed like the book was written with the theory of the more gore and violence, the better. I'm just not a fan of violence for the sake of violence. If it doesn't serve to fully further the story, then I think it should be toned down at the very least.
Despite my attachment to the majority of the side characters and the interesting mythology, in all honesty I highly doubt I will be reading anything more from this series. It is just too far on the pulp fiction spectrum rather than Urban Fantasy despite the heavy paranormal aspects of the story. Granted, Blood and Silver did earn a slightly higher rating from me than the previous installment, but in the end it just didn't work well enough for me to warrant continuing on. That being said, the series does seem to be headed in the right direction due to Deacon's growth. Combine that with the great secondary cast and the paranormal aspects, and excessive violence aside, I think Blood and Silver was a solid installment, and will largely appeal to fans of the first book.
August 20, 2012
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha, Michelle L. Olson:
After reading - and thoroughly enjoying- Blood and Bullets, I immediately dove into Blood and Silver, the 2nd full book of the Deacon Chalk, Occult Bounty Hunter series.
Following the hell Deacon and gang went through in Blood and Bullets, I was excited to see where James would take us with book #2. What we ended up with is a high octane shoot 'em up action thriller with feeling.
I KNOW there are those of you out there that hesitate to read urban fantasy and paranormal romance by male authors... Deacon is a guys' guy and wonderfully written by James. In addition there are some romantic moments in this book that I re-read just for the sheer beauty and poetry of the prose. I loved the way James set the stage and wove the scenes without really coming out and saying what was going on, there's just something to be said for subtlety and allowing the power of your imagination to do the work guided by the script of fabulous writing.
This book starts with a bang and never lets up. It's non-stop action wonderfully supported by a competent cast of characters that welcome you on their journey and either have you cheering for them, crying for them (yes, you will have your moments!) or hating them.
Deacon evolves in this installment, as do several other members of the supporting cast. He also earns some additional allies and friends (whom I love), while making some powerful enemies along the way (surprise surprise! - It seems that no matter what he does and regardless that his heart is always in the right place, Mr. chalk just can't seem to stay out of trouble).
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood and Silver 4 1/2 Skulls. If you are a fan of early Laurell K Hamilton - Anita Blake (before it became all about the sex), then you will love Deacon Chalk! I can't wait for the next book. James, as always, left me wanting more.
Side Note: there were a couple pieces in the story where I felt a bit lost and was confused because I had just finished Blood & Bullets. Come to find out I had missed a novella that takes place between Blood & Bullets and Blood & Silver - Spider's Lullaby. I went back and read it after and it filled in those few little "huh?" moments. With that said, I would suggest reading the series as: That Thing at the Zoo, Blood & Bullets, Spider's Lullaby & then Blood & Silver to get the best experience. The novellas are definitely worth the read!
After reading - and thoroughly enjoying- Blood and Bullets, I immediately dove into Blood and Silver, the 2nd full book of the Deacon Chalk, Occult Bounty Hunter series.
Following the hell Deacon and gang went through in Blood and Bullets, I was excited to see where James would take us with book #2. What we ended up with is a high octane shoot 'em up action thriller with feeling.
I KNOW there are those of you out there that hesitate to read urban fantasy and paranormal romance by male authors... Deacon is a guys' guy and wonderfully written by James. In addition there are some romantic moments in this book that I re-read just for the sheer beauty and poetry of the prose. I loved the way James set the stage and wove the scenes without really coming out and saying what was going on, there's just something to be said for subtlety and allowing the power of your imagination to do the work guided by the script of fabulous writing.
This book starts with a bang and never lets up. It's non-stop action wonderfully supported by a competent cast of characters that welcome you on their journey and either have you cheering for them, crying for them (yes, you will have your moments!) or hating them.
Deacon evolves in this installment, as do several other members of the supporting cast. He also earns some additional allies and friends (whom I love), while making some powerful enemies along the way (surprise surprise! - It seems that no matter what he does and regardless that his heart is always in the right place, Mr. chalk just can't seem to stay out of trouble).
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood and Silver 4 1/2 Skulls. If you are a fan of early Laurell K Hamilton - Anita Blake (before it became all about the sex), then you will love Deacon Chalk! I can't wait for the next book. James, as always, left me wanting more.
Side Note: there were a couple pieces in the story where I felt a bit lost and was confused because I had just finished Blood & Bullets. Come to find out I had missed a novella that takes place between Blood & Bullets and Blood & Silver - Spider's Lullaby. I went back and read it after and it filled in those few little "huh?" moments. With that said, I would suggest reading the series as: That Thing at the Zoo, Blood & Bullets, Spider's Lullaby & then Blood & Silver to get the best experience. The novellas are definitely worth the read!
March 6, 2013
In Blood and Bullets, there was a central theme of vampires. In this book, we are taking a look at Mr. Tuck’s Were society. All I can say is that I have never experienced a universe like this; it’s action packed and very unique.
Deacon is back and he is out for vengeance. After saving a were-dog, he and his crew have taken it upon themselves to protect the innocent woman. Pregnant and nearly beaten to death, they scramble to find out what is going on in their town.
In Were society there are separate rules and laws. The strong prey on the weak and the weaker just take it. To make matters worse, there are two new factions are in town; one of peace and one of power. Together they wreak havoc on Atlanta, and disturb the somewhat quiet calm that the crew has been enjoying for far too long. Now they have to fight a good fight and protect the weaker Were community. But something doesn't seem right and Deacon is just the man to uncover the truth.
Mr. Tuck has done it again. Wow!! This was a very high octane ride. It is fast, furious and well written. He doesn't hold anything back, so if you have problems with violence you will not enjoy this book. But come on, look at the cover…Deacon ROCKS the violence. The fighting isn't sugarcoated and this universe is deadly and unpredictable. The Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty-Hunter series has found its stride. This hero shoots first and asks questions later. No apologies, none what’s so ever.
I was drawn in. His voice is very descriptive; from the characters clothing, their surroundings, and especially Deacon’s man toys. I couldn't help but get immersed into the story. This is Urban Fantasy at its best. This is raw, with only a slight romantic undercurrent. He has even put a new spin on shifters. I was constantly sitting there wondering; OK…I didn't expect that. I really enjoyed that aspect. Blood and Silver is refreshing, but in a really bloody gritty way.
I do have one note: While reading I did notice reference to prior battles. They were written in a manner that made me wonder if I had missed something. It turns out I did. There are a couple novellas that have been written between the full novels. Did I need them to enjoy the story? No, but I can see how they would have enhanced my reading experience. I can see me going back at a later date to enjoy them, but I have plans to just plow right into the next book, Blood and Magick. I can’t wait!
Deacon is back and he is out for vengeance. After saving a were-dog, he and his crew have taken it upon themselves to protect the innocent woman. Pregnant and nearly beaten to death, they scramble to find out what is going on in their town.
In Were society there are separate rules and laws. The strong prey on the weak and the weaker just take it. To make matters worse, there are two new factions are in town; one of peace and one of power. Together they wreak havoc on Atlanta, and disturb the somewhat quiet calm that the crew has been enjoying for far too long. Now they have to fight a good fight and protect the weaker Were community. But something doesn't seem right and Deacon is just the man to uncover the truth.
Mr. Tuck has done it again. Wow!! This was a very high octane ride. It is fast, furious and well written. He doesn't hold anything back, so if you have problems with violence you will not enjoy this book. But come on, look at the cover…Deacon ROCKS the violence. The fighting isn't sugarcoated and this universe is deadly and unpredictable. The Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty-Hunter series has found its stride. This hero shoots first and asks questions later. No apologies, none what’s so ever.
I was drawn in. His voice is very descriptive; from the characters clothing, their surroundings, and especially Deacon’s man toys. I couldn't help but get immersed into the story. This is Urban Fantasy at its best. This is raw, with only a slight romantic undercurrent. He has even put a new spin on shifters. I was constantly sitting there wondering; OK…I didn't expect that. I really enjoyed that aspect. Blood and Silver is refreshing, but in a really bloody gritty way.
I do have one note: While reading I did notice reference to prior battles. They were written in a manner that made me wonder if I had missed something. It turns out I did. There are a couple novellas that have been written between the full novels. Did I need them to enjoy the story? No, but I can see how they would have enhanced my reading experience. I can see me going back at a later date to enjoy them, but I have plans to just plow right into the next book, Blood and Magick. I can’t wait!
February 15, 2014
Reviewed by Deana
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This review contains some spoilers if you have not read the first book in the series.
Deacon Chalk is not just your average tattooist turned bounty hunter. Deacon has been infused with Angel blood that gives him an amazing ability to hear and powers to fight the things that go bump in the night. In other words Deacon is a true bad ass. After the horrific slaying of his family, Deacon has made it his life’s work to be an occult bounty hunter and rid the world of evil monsters.
The story picks up about a year from where Blood and Bullets lets off. Deacon and Tiff are having a good day until they stumble upon a Were-Lion beating a dog. Deacon will have none of this. He fights off the Were, saves the dog who in turn is a pregnant shifter. Turns out she is the advance part for Marcus’s campaign , another lion shifter, who is a pacifist and is encouraging both were predators and prey weres to live peacefully. Unfortunately, Marcus has a brother Leonidas who, along with his band of prey weres, comes along behind Marcus wreaking havoc. Deacon and the rest of his gang need to find a way to defeat Leonidas and the rest of the bad shifters.
If you are looking for a fast paced, balls to the wall, graphic book this one is for you. Yes there is lots of valance and blood. The story is very descriptive from the clothes that are worn, to the guns that Deacon uses to the car he drives. The plot is well written and I do not feel that are any holes left. I love the different weres that we see in this book. The Were-Shark and Were-T-Rex were great touches for something new and different. James Tuck delivers some great one liners, where I had to put my book down and just laugh. There is a touch of romance to our story, I really liked that Deacon admitted that he does love Tiff. This book is urban fantasy all the way. I look forward to see what the authors has in store for Deacon next. I would recommend this read!!
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This review contains some spoilers if you have not read the first book in the series.
Deacon Chalk is not just your average tattooist turned bounty hunter. Deacon has been infused with Angel blood that gives him an amazing ability to hear and powers to fight the things that go bump in the night. In other words Deacon is a true bad ass. After the horrific slaying of his family, Deacon has made it his life’s work to be an occult bounty hunter and rid the world of evil monsters.
The story picks up about a year from where Blood and Bullets lets off. Deacon and Tiff are having a good day until they stumble upon a Were-Lion beating a dog. Deacon will have none of this. He fights off the Were, saves the dog who in turn is a pregnant shifter. Turns out she is the advance part for Marcus’s campaign , another lion shifter, who is a pacifist and is encouraging both were predators and prey weres to live peacefully. Unfortunately, Marcus has a brother Leonidas who, along with his band of prey weres, comes along behind Marcus wreaking havoc. Deacon and the rest of his gang need to find a way to defeat Leonidas and the rest of the bad shifters.
If you are looking for a fast paced, balls to the wall, graphic book this one is for you. Yes there is lots of valance and blood. The story is very descriptive from the clothes that are worn, to the guns that Deacon uses to the car he drives. The plot is well written and I do not feel that are any holes left. I love the different weres that we see in this book. The Were-Shark and Were-T-Rex were great touches for something new and different. James Tuck delivers some great one liners, where I had to put my book down and just laugh. There is a touch of romance to our story, I really liked that Deacon admitted that he does love Tiff. This book is urban fantasy all the way. I look forward to see what the authors has in store for Deacon next. I would recommend this read!!
October 26, 2012
While I enjoyed this book almost as much as the previous books in the series, I found myself a little more critical of the writing. With 2 novellas and a full length book under his belt, I have higher expectations from the author when it comes to the execution of the story. One thing that struck me in a less positive way was the amount of repetition in the story. While it is not reasonable to expect all your readers to have read previous volumes in the series, it isn’t necessary to recap everything that happened in said books. Fewer detailed recaps, with perhaps less explicit references to past events would help tighten up the story.
The story itself was as entertaining as the previous ones. I was struck by how like an action movie the book was. The fight scenes are definitely the high points of the story, with the action so graphic that I felt like I was watching the story, not reading it.
Deacon continues to be an intriguing character. The more I read of him, the more I like him. The aspect of his personality that was most obvious in this story is his extreme repect for women. He may be a tough guy monster killer, but he knows how to treat the ladies around him properly. I wanted to share one quote that really stuck with me (keep in mind I had an ARC, but it might be different in the finished version):
Women already come equipped with a core of steel fiber strength, depths of resolve a man cannot comprehend. It’s not the dynamic strength men have, all power and show. It’s a strength of endurance, fortitude. It is the strength that allows women to conceive life and to carry that life until the day it can stand on its own.
Overall, this is a great addition the the series, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I have been spoiled to be able to read all the available volumes in a relatively short period of time, and I’m not sure how I will survive waiting for more to be released.
The story itself was as entertaining as the previous ones. I was struck by how like an action movie the book was. The fight scenes are definitely the high points of the story, with the action so graphic that I felt like I was watching the story, not reading it.
Deacon continues to be an intriguing character. The more I read of him, the more I like him. The aspect of his personality that was most obvious in this story is his extreme repect for women. He may be a tough guy monster killer, but he knows how to treat the ladies around him properly. I wanted to share one quote that really stuck with me (keep in mind I had an ARC, but it might be different in the finished version):
Women already come equipped with a core of steel fiber strength, depths of resolve a man cannot comprehend. It’s not the dynamic strength men have, all power and show. It’s a strength of endurance, fortitude. It is the strength that allows women to conceive life and to carry that life until the day it can stand on its own.
Overall, this is a great addition the the series, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I have been spoiled to be able to read all the available volumes in a relatively short period of time, and I’m not sure how I will survive waiting for more to be released.
June 10, 2013
4.5
Deacon Chalk is an Occult Bounty Hunter. Ever since his family was killed by a Nephilim five years before he’s killed the monsters that needed killing. Ones that attack humans or are just plain evil end up on his radar and that’s one radar you don’t want to be on.
One evening he’s out enjoying some time off at a street carnival with his friend Tiffany and they come across a guy beating a dog. Uh, oh…instant blip on Deacon’s radar. When Deacon discovers the guy is a shapeshifter and not just a crappy human all bets are off especially when the guy’s buddies show up and decide to kick Deacon’s ass for interfering in what they feel is none of his business. Deacon feels otherwise, a fight ensues and with some help from Tiffany he wins Round One and takes the dog with him. But we all know that’s not the end of things. Nope, it’s just the beginning.
This book starts off with a bang and doesn’t stop until the end with lots of action interspersed with a few softer scenes. Deacon is learning more about what his angel blood can do and the power is not insignificant, but he doesn’t like using it. The most fun is learning how many different kinds of shapeshifters are in Deacon’s world. The weres are many and varied, some are even a tad ridiculous (a were-shark? Really? And I’m not going to spoil the surprise on that other one O.O) and make me wonder if they are natural or laboratory born. We learn in this book that there are unknown forces out there, so it’s a mystery still to be unraveled.
All-in-all a suspenseful wild ride and I look forward to Blood and Magick to see what happens next.
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Kensington for providing a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
Deacon Chalk is an Occult Bounty Hunter. Ever since his family was killed by a Nephilim five years before he’s killed the monsters that needed killing. Ones that attack humans or are just plain evil end up on his radar and that’s one radar you don’t want to be on.
One evening he’s out enjoying some time off at a street carnival with his friend Tiffany and they come across a guy beating a dog. Uh, oh…instant blip on Deacon’s radar. When Deacon discovers the guy is a shapeshifter and not just a crappy human all bets are off especially when the guy’s buddies show up and decide to kick Deacon’s ass for interfering in what they feel is none of his business. Deacon feels otherwise, a fight ensues and with some help from Tiffany he wins Round One and takes the dog with him. But we all know that’s not the end of things. Nope, it’s just the beginning.
This book starts off with a bang and doesn’t stop until the end with lots of action interspersed with a few softer scenes. Deacon is learning more about what his angel blood can do and the power is not insignificant, but he doesn’t like using it. The most fun is learning how many different kinds of shapeshifters are in Deacon’s world. The weres are many and varied, some are even a tad ridiculous (a were-shark? Really? And I’m not going to spoil the surprise on that other one O.O) and make me wonder if they are natural or laboratory born. We learn in this book that there are unknown forces out there, so it’s a mystery still to be unraveled.
All-in-all a suspenseful wild ride and I look forward to Blood and Magick to see what happens next.
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Kensington for providing a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
July 20, 2012
Blood and Silver was a good sequel to Blood and Bullets. Based on the first two books, I am loving the Deacon Chalk Occult Bounty Hunter series. There were a couple things that bothered me about this book. First of all, the author was very repetitive. He told the story of how he met Kat, then a few chapters later he would tell it again. He also used the expression "moved like quicksilver" throughout the book several times. I will be happy if I never have to hear the word quicksilver again in my life. Otherwise, I loved the book. I didn't want it to end because it will probably be a long wait for the next book in the series. I liked hearing about all the different types of weres, or lycanthropes. My favorite was the T.Rex-were. The plot was interesting and kept me turning pages. Deacon was able to lessen a few past issues in this book, which made me glad. The issues are still there, but he is slowly moving on. He's been through a lot of bad things and deserves to be happy. All of the character's on Deacon's side from the first book return, along with a few new ones. I was very upset at the author for letting me get emotionally attached to characters then killing them off or almost killing them. My favorite new character was Sophia. She had plenty of reasons to give up and quit fighting. However, she pulled it together for her unborn babies. Minus a few flaws, I really liked Blood and Silver. I can't wait to read the next book in the series when it is released. I recommend this book for readers who have read Blood and Bullets. However, due to language, violence, and a sex scene, I recommend it for adult readers who are not squeamish.
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