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Black Hat Bureau #8
Gray Seas
After the challenge for the throne of Hael went sideways, Rue expected Stavros to place a bounty on Asa’s head, but she didn’t expect him to pin an even bigger target on her back. Then again, it was her fault he was forced to turn tail and run from the fight during a live broadcast to the entire kingdom. That had to sting his pride. Life would have been so much simpler if only he had been incinerated by her magic along with the rest of the arena.
But simple is one thing Rue’s life has never been. And things keep getting more complicated when a stalker turns to murder, carving messages into the bodies of his victims. With a killer on her trail, she ought to be focused on staying alive, but a hot tip on another case leads her into the bowels of the Black Hat compound, where Rue discovers a world of secrets and lies that just might bring the Bureau crashing to its knees.
But simple is one thing Rue’s life has never been. And things keep getting more complicated when a stalker turns to murder, carving messages into the bodies of his victims. With a killer on her trail, she ought to be focused on staying alive, but a hot tip on another case leads her into the bowels of the Black Hat compound, where Rue discovers a world of secrets and lies that just might bring the Bureau crashing to its knees.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2023
709 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Edwards
104 books2,834 followersHailey Edwards writes about questionable applications of otherwise perfectly good magic, the transformative power of love, the family you choose for yourself, and blowing stuff up. Not necessarily all at once. That could get messy.
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
July 1, 2023
3.5/5.0
My head says I really should round this one down but my heart just won’t let me. I have loved this series from the beginning and the characters ALWAYS make each installment enjoyable to read.
In this specific story, however, the plotline just didn’t keep me riveted like others have. I could read - and enjoy - yet put the book down without any problem at all. There really wasn’t a whole lot going on through most of the book, except them chasing down and trying to unravel how to get to Luca and save Adrian (with no luck on either front at all). It was fun to be back with the gang and thoroughly enjoyable to catch up and follow them, it just doesn’t grab and hang on like previous installments have.
Also, the cliffhanger ending was super disappointing - especially because nothing much has progressed at all in the overall plotline, save one ruler taking over in one area. Usually Ms. Edward’s wraps things up while still holding the series arc but this time it just… ends.
Still, I’m so hooked on the series, there isn’t even a titch of a question as to whether I’ll continue. That 4 stars in spite of everything is testament to that. :)
My head says I really should round this one down but my heart just won’t let me. I have loved this series from the beginning and the characters ALWAYS make each installment enjoyable to read.
In this specific story, however, the plotline just didn’t keep me riveted like others have. I could read - and enjoy - yet put the book down without any problem at all. There really wasn’t a whole lot going on through most of the book, except them chasing down and trying to unravel how to get to Luca and save Adrian (with no luck on either front at all). It was fun to be back with the gang and thoroughly enjoyable to catch up and follow them, it just doesn’t grab and hang on like previous installments have.
Also, the cliffhanger ending was super disappointing - especially because nothing much has progressed at all in the overall plotline, save one ruler taking over in one area. Usually Ms. Edward’s wraps things up while still holding the series arc but this time it just… ends.
Still, I’m so hooked on the series, there isn’t even a titch of a question as to whether I’ll continue. That 4 stars in spite of everything is testament to that. :)
June 25, 2023
Full on disclaimer: I adore Rue and Asa and all the individuals they've amassed around them, but I am DYING over what Aedan is being forced to endure. I completely understand why he did what he did and I respect that he was trying to protect Rue and it's absolutely killing me that he's in that woman's clutches. *dies and is dead*
Hoo-boy. Enough about Aedan (FOR NOW!), let's get back to Rue and the many MANY balls she's juggling as she works on making a difference in this world and others. Seriously, the lady has SO MUCH she's dealing with. An incomplete list: dead bodies, bombs, more dead bodies, a sentient book that might or might not be slyly influencing her, witches doing their witchy things, a warg BFF who's slightly unhinged in the best way, a (more than) slightly feral response when someone looks at Asa admiringly, crafts that hardcore ship her and Asa as a super power couple, and a whole bunch of people who are looking to her to lead them.
She also has Aedan's sacrifice to deal with. Plus a high maintenance former queen who I DO NOT LIKE. Oh, and there's Asa's father and his cheating, cheater ways. That jerk.
So what does our former black witch do? She recruits from her allies and delegates a few things. Well, she sort of delegates. Let's just say that she's starting to understand that having people around you who you trust is very important in the grand scheme of things. Fortunately for her, she DOES have people she trusts. And her circle of trust is expanding which is really a feat considering how closed off and wary Rue was when we first met her.
A string of bodies, a man trying to impress Rue, black witches, white witches, family connections, and decisions that need to be made. Rue and Asa are working on finding themselves and it's a messy (and slightly blood splattered) journey. The pieces are falling into place, but I'M STILL DYING OVER AEDAN AND WHAT HE'S BEING FORCED TO ENDURE. Poor guy.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Hoo-boy. Enough about Aedan (FOR NOW!), let's get back to Rue and the many MANY balls she's juggling as she works on making a difference in this world and others. Seriously, the lady has SO MUCH she's dealing with. An incomplete list: dead bodies, bombs, more dead bodies, a sentient book that might or might not be slyly influencing her, witches doing their witchy things, a warg BFF who's slightly unhinged in the best way, a (more than) slightly feral response when someone looks at Asa admiringly, crafts that hardcore ship her and Asa as a super power couple, and a whole bunch of people who are looking to her to lead them.
She also has Aedan's sacrifice to deal with. Plus a high maintenance former queen who I DO NOT LIKE. Oh, and there's Asa's father and his cheating, cheater ways. That jerk.
So what does our former black witch do? She recruits from her allies and delegates a few things. Well, she sort of delegates. Let's just say that she's starting to understand that having people around you who you trust is very important in the grand scheme of things. Fortunately for her, she DOES have people she trusts. And her circle of trust is expanding which is really a feat considering how closed off and wary Rue was when we first met her.
A string of bodies, a man trying to impress Rue, black witches, white witches, family connections, and decisions that need to be made. Rue and Asa are working on finding themselves and it's a messy (and slightly blood splattered) journey. The pieces are falling into place, but I'M STILL DYING OVER AEDAN AND WHAT HE'S BEING FORCED TO ENDURE. Poor guy.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 6, 2023
Why is the author so obsessed with describing food? The action and mystery are near constantly interrupted by pointless paragraphs detailing exactly what each person ordered for breakfast/lunch/dinner. And there are tons of people in Rue's crew, now, so it goes on forever. It serves no purpose.
Otherwise, this installment was standard when compared to its predecessors. I've never been the biggest fan of this series, and lately, the twee character interactions have been getting on my nerves. It's a KU series, which means it's highly accessible to me and a quick read to boot, but idk if I'll continue.
Otherwise, this installment was standard when compared to its predecessors. I've never been the biggest fan of this series, and lately, the twee character interactions have been getting on my nerves. It's a KU series, which means it's highly accessible to me and a quick read to boot, but idk if I'll continue.
July 6, 2023
Not my favourite, but the revelations were definitely unexpected
I am annoyed by how much of this book is filled with food. I honestly don't care what everyone eats or where they eat, or how much they eat, but this book took us through about a weeks worth of breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. There was just SO much talking about the food, and what the food was made of, how delicious it was, and how they were on a case, but more worried about food...I mean, it just got to be ridiculous. I get it. Everyone likes food, but not everyone likes to READ about food. It took a lot of fun out of the story for me. That being said, the story progressed in a way I wasn't expecting, and the revelations coupled with that explosive ending makes me excited to keep reading this series. I want to know what happens next!
I am annoyed by how much of this book is filled with food. I honestly don't care what everyone eats or where they eat, or how much they eat, but this book took us through about a weeks worth of breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. There was just SO much talking about the food, and what the food was made of, how delicious it was, and how they were on a case, but more worried about food...I mean, it just got to be ridiculous. I get it. Everyone likes food, but not everyone likes to READ about food. It took a lot of fun out of the story for me. That being said, the story progressed in a way I wasn't expecting, and the revelations coupled with that explosive ending makes me excited to keep reading this series. I want to know what happens next!
June 29, 2023
In this one Rue and her crew were running all over chasing leads to find her grandmother and not having luck finding her, but having luck finding a whole lot of trouble. The wargs were along for the fun, causing a fight for the supreme bff between Clay and Marita, which was fun. With each new location they were at they learned a bit more, to the point where they were back at the office and found out a whole lot of info about her grandfather, who we learned once again is a huge POS. It will be interesting to see where things go from here with that knowledge and what happened at the last battle in Hael.
March 3, 2025
This is a long series of books and if you like vampires golems which is f aye supernatural this is fun it's exciting it's got romance it's a little bit of everything and I love fantasy so there you go this is a great fantasy series and hope you enjoy it
July 10, 2023
I'll go with 3.5 - Besides I think one book, always enjoy this series for it's humor and characters. The author writer these fast, too, so it was a surprise to see this one was released last week and it's only been a few weeks since I finished the 7th.
Biggest pet peeve, besides a mini cliffhanger ending that is not typical for the author? Book 7 ended with her PARENTS coming to live at the compound. I was eager to see them interact temporarily with the craziness, love the characters, and hiding Colby --- so how does the author handle this in Book 8? By having the entire book, seriously, not be set there. They are out of town in various places the entire time. The parents disappear besides a very brief phone call.
On the good side, we get a lot more of one of my favorite mated werewolf couple pairs. The humor with them and Clay is still a fun time. Asa still mainly bores me but Blay remains adorable. The ghost hunting jokes are hilarious and one reason I enjoy this series. We also get some of her new leutenants in a few scenes, and I'm fascinated by them for some reason.
Aeden is....sad. There are some scenes from his point of view, which is not typical for this series.
There's two resolutions that are pretty big wtih one big bad and another that ties into the very ending, so both of these are big steps towards wrapping up a few things, but there's still plenty not resolved and looming - yay for more books in this addictive series
I have no idea what to think of "The Carver" yet, a quirky addition, we'll see.
But I will repeat what others said - the author is over obsessed with food scenes, descriptions, and jokes in these books. I swear it's like half the story sometimes.
Biggest pet peeve, besides a mini cliffhanger ending that is not typical for the author? Book 7 ended with her PARENTS coming to live at the compound. I was eager to see them interact temporarily with the craziness, love the characters, and hiding Colby --- so how does the author handle this in Book 8? By having the entire book, seriously, not be set there. They are out of town in various places the entire time. The parents disappear besides a very brief phone call.
On the good side, we get a lot more of one of my favorite mated werewolf couple pairs. The humor with them and Clay is still a fun time. Asa still mainly bores me but Blay remains adorable. The ghost hunting jokes are hilarious and one reason I enjoy this series. We also get some of her new leutenants in a few scenes, and I'm fascinated by them for some reason.
Aeden is....sad. There are some scenes from his point of view, which is not typical for this series.
There's two resolutions that are pretty big wtih one big bad and another that ties into the very ending, so both of these are big steps towards wrapping up a few things, but there's still plenty not resolved and looming - yay for more books in this addictive series
I have no idea what to think of "The Carver" yet, a quirky addition, we'll see.
But I will repeat what others said - the author is over obsessed with food scenes, descriptions, and jokes in these books. I swear it's like half the story sometimes.
January 16, 2025
DNF @ 60%
This is a fine series with interesting characters and plot, I just never felt really captured by it. I've been trying to push myself through this series and realized at 60% into this audiobook, I had absolutely no idea what was going on, nor did I care. All the talk of food and how much everyone is eating would bore me (instead of make me laugh which I think was the goal?) and then the next thing you know Aiden is being SA'd off page. Like??? whiplash.
So yeah, just not the series for me unfortunately.
This is a fine series with interesting characters and plot, I just never felt really captured by it. I've been trying to push myself through this series and realized at 60% into this audiobook, I had absolutely no idea what was going on, nor did I care. All the talk of food and how much everyone is eating would bore me (instead of make me laugh which I think was the goal?) and then the next thing you know Aiden is being SA'd off page. Like??? whiplash.
So yeah, just not the series for me unfortunately.
June 30, 2023
Always a thrill ride to read books by this author. Add a visit to Salem, MA? Yes please. My heart continues to break for Aedan. He needs to be home with the family. Love the relationships and character interactions. Of course I would love the next in series yesterday, but alas.
July 2, 2023
1 star deduction for that cliffhanger ending. Otherwise another good entry in one of my favorite series.
April 8, 2025
3.5 stars
Let's start with the positive. I still love Asa and Rue as a couple, the side characters are fun (Carver and Rue's inside guys are a nice addition) and there are always some moments of excitement. I loved the beginning as the bomb really captured my interest and I liked the plot of Rue having to figure out why people are trying to assassinate her or Asa. I also enjoy the politics of Hael and Asa's father, as well as Rue trying to take over Black Hat to make it better. My issue is with everything else going on that dilutes the interesting stuff. There is always way too much going on, and it's no different here. In fact this book is even more all over the place, with dull subplots. Rue's parents go absolutely nowhere with their plot, I am so sick of Luca (even though her reveal was one of the good parts), Rue's aunt and Aeaden are unnecessary and the Black Hat mysteries with Rue's grandfather are dragging on. Any of the murder mystery storylines are always kinda meh. I just want better storylines, and if the author reduced the amount of stuff going on, that would be a huge help.
I also dislike the repetitiveness. We get it, Clay loves food and his wigs and is best friends with Colby. The amount of food descriptions in this series is ridiculous. The book is 50% banter, which can get old very fast. Clay is constant, and with the addition of Derry and Marita, it can get a little much. I'm not saying it isn't funny, but it would be much funnier in moderation. So I just wish the story matched with the likeable characters.
Let's start with the positive. I still love Asa and Rue as a couple, the side characters are fun (Carver and Rue's inside guys are a nice addition) and there are always some moments of excitement. I loved the beginning as the bomb really captured my interest and I liked the plot of Rue having to figure out why people are trying to assassinate her or Asa. I also enjoy the politics of Hael and Asa's father, as well as Rue trying to take over Black Hat to make it better. My issue is with everything else going on that dilutes the interesting stuff. There is always way too much going on, and it's no different here. In fact this book is even more all over the place, with dull subplots. Rue's parents go absolutely nowhere with their plot, I am so sick of Luca (even though her reveal was one of the good parts), Rue's aunt and Aeaden are unnecessary and the Black Hat mysteries with Rue's grandfather are dragging on. Any of the murder mystery storylines are always kinda meh. I just want better storylines, and if the author reduced the amount of stuff going on, that would be a huge help.
I also dislike the repetitiveness. We get it, Clay loves food and his wigs and is best friends with Colby. The amount of food descriptions in this series is ridiculous. The book is 50% banter, which can get old very fast. Clay is constant, and with the addition of Derry and Marita, it can get a little much. I'm not saying it isn't funny, but it would be much funnier in moderation. So I just wish the story matched with the likeable characters.
November 3, 2024
3.5 stars. Honestly, not a lot happened in this book and I'm ready for the series to end. Don't get me wrong, I love these characters, but... it's time.
Asa and Blay always win. Blay loves Rue in such the sweetest way, and i adore how she just continues to allow him and Asa to be the separate but same males they are. All the hearts.
Aedan. This is the heartbreak of the story. There better be a GOOD victory in the next 2 books for him, or I will riot!
Asa and Blay always win. Blay loves Rue in such the sweetest way, and i adore how she just continues to allow him and Asa to be the separate but same males they are. All the hearts.
Aedan. This is the heartbreak of the story. There better be a GOOD victory in the next 2 books for him, or I will riot!
January 28, 2024
French & English reviews
Un tome que j'ai lu avec plaisir mais trop court
Encore un livre que j'ai lu trop vite avec tous les ingrédients pour me rendre accro : un univers fascinant (j'adore quand on découvre de nouvelles créatures !), une héroïne badass mais en même temps humaine (j'adore la façon dont Rue finit par prendre une décision concernant les Black Hat et j'ai hâte de voir ce que ça va donner !), une romance toujours aussi mignonne, des descriptions de bouffe qui vont saliver et des révélations fascinantes (notamment l'identité de la mystérieuse Luca !!)
Mention spéciale ici pour le POV d'Aedan qui m'a BRISEE le coeur !! Il faut absolument que cette partie là soit réglée et vite !
Mon petit bémol c'est que j'ai l'impression que les livres commencent à perdre en "consistance" ... L'intrigue avance mais trop lentement sur certains aspects (notamment la romance qui n'évolue plus vraiment, ses parents qui ne servent pas à grand chose finalement et aussi la partie avec sa grand-mère) et je regrette que les tomes ne soient pas plus détaillés et plus approfondis ...
Bref, un tome que j'ai lu avec plaisir et qui marque un tournant pour l'intrigue !
PS : je l'avais pas mentionné avant mais les petits dessins en début de chapitre j'adore !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A book that I read with pleasure but too short
Another book that I read too quickly with all the ingredients to make me addicted : a fascinating universe (I love it when we discover new creatures !), a heroine > badass but at the same time human (I love the way Rue ends up making a decision about the Black Hats and I can't wait to see what happens !), a romance still so cute, descriptions of food that make one salivates and fascinating revelations (including the identity of the mysterious Luca !!)
Special mention here for Aedan's POV which BROKE my heart !! This part absolutely needs to be resolved and quickly !
My little downside is that I have the impression that the books are starting to lose "consistency" ... The main plot advances but too slowly on certain aspects (notably the romance which does not evolves more really, her parents who are not of much use in the end and also the part with her grandmother) and I regret that the books are not more detailed and more in-depth ...
In short, a volume that I read with pleasure and which marks a turning point for the plot !
PS: I hadn't mentioned it before but I love the little drawings at the start of the chapters !
Un tome que j'ai lu avec plaisir mais trop court
Encore un livre que j'ai lu trop vite avec tous les ingrédients pour me rendre accro : un univers fascinant (j'adore quand on découvre de nouvelles créatures !), une héroïne badass mais en même temps humaine (j'adore la façon dont Rue finit par prendre une décision concernant les Black Hat et j'ai hâte de voir ce que ça va donner !), une romance toujours aussi mignonne, des descriptions de bouffe qui vont saliver et des révélations fascinantes (notamment l'identité de la mystérieuse Luca !!)
Mention spéciale ici pour le POV d'Aedan qui m'a BRISEE le coeur !! Il faut absolument que cette partie là soit réglée et vite !
Mon petit bémol c'est que j'ai l'impression que les livres commencent à perdre en "consistance" ... L'intrigue avance mais trop lentement sur certains aspects (notamment la romance qui n'évolue plus vraiment, ses parents qui ne servent pas à grand chose finalement et aussi la partie avec sa grand-mère) et je regrette que les tomes ne soient pas plus détaillés et plus approfondis ...
Bref, un tome que j'ai lu avec plaisir et qui marque un tournant pour l'intrigue !
PS : je l'avais pas mentionné avant mais les petits dessins en début de chapitre j'adore !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A book that I read with pleasure but too short
Another book that I read too quickly with all the ingredients to make me addicted : a fascinating universe (I love it when we discover new creatures !), a heroine > badass but at the same time human (I love the way Rue ends up making a decision about the Black Hats and I can't wait to see what happens !), a romance still so cute, descriptions of food that make one salivates and fascinating revelations (including the identity of the mysterious Luca !!)
Special mention here for Aedan's POV which BROKE my heart !! This part absolutely needs to be resolved and quickly !
My little downside is that I have the impression that the books are starting to lose "consistency" ... The main plot advances but too slowly on certain aspects (notably the romance which does not evolves more really, her parents who are not of much use in the end and also the part with her grandmother) and I regret that the books are not more detailed and more in-depth ...
In short, a volume that I read with pleasure and which marks a turning point for the plot !
PS: I hadn't mentioned it before but I love the little drawings at the start of the chapters !
November 21, 2025
Full series review (talk to text so there may be errors because I don’t have an editor or time to meticulously edit.)
The first book particularly hit the sweet spot for me in a lot of ways. Like a lot of books she seemed to get very focused on action, action, action, and forgot about the characters and relationships, and all those story threads she had started on in the beginning. I guess by the end of the series I like the idea of the series and I like the first book there’s nothing particularly wrong with the rest, but it just didn’t hit the same tone.
It’s the general type of story I like etc. I listened to the audiobook version, her voice was fine, but there was a lot of wrong words and it was very noticeable after a while. I’m not sure that it was the narrators fault but I’m pretty sure it was the narrator. I did not keep a list but a lot of words were read as similar sounding words with different meanings. I don’t know if this is true in the print copies also but my feeling/hope is no. At least one error I think may have been printed, in the last book (in a non-pivotal scene) Clay and Colby got mixed up so basically Clay was hugging his own face…
Basically ten books all about the same thing that ultimately is resolved in about 30 minutes at the very end which means not a lot of time to resolve things in a satisfying way.
***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****
OVERALL: After the first book, it lost some of its magic and that is very common because not every book can strike the exact same tone because then you might as well be reading the same book over and over. Worth going through once I don’t see it being a series of return to when I’m looking for a little nostalgia/comfort.
The first book particularly hit the sweet spot for me in a lot of ways. Like a lot of books she seemed to get very focused on action, action, action, and forgot about the characters and relationships, and all those story threads she had started on in the beginning. I guess by the end of the series I like the idea of the series and I like the first book there’s nothing particularly wrong with the rest, but it just didn’t hit the same tone.
It’s the general type of story I like etc. I listened to the audiobook version, her voice was fine, but there was a lot of wrong words and it was very noticeable after a while. I’m not sure that it was the narrators fault but I’m pretty sure it was the narrator. I did not keep a list but a lot of words were read as similar sounding words with different meanings. I don’t know if this is true in the print copies also but my feeling/hope is no. At least one error I think may have been printed, in the last book (in a non-pivotal scene) Clay and Colby got mixed up so basically Clay was hugging his own face…
Basically ten books all about the same thing that ultimately is resolved in about 30 minutes at the very end which means not a lot of time to resolve things in a satisfying way.
***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****
OVERALL: After the first book, it lost some of its magic and that is very common because not every book can strike the exact same tone because then you might as well be reading the same book over and over. Worth going through once I don’t see it being a series of return to when I’m looking for a little nostalgia/comfort.
May 22, 2025
This one took the usual Rue-brand chaos and layered it with something deeper: grief. Aiden’s absence leaves a hole—not just in the story, but in Rue herself. It’s handled beautifully. Not overdone. Not ignored. Just there. Quiet and heavy, like missing a limb you didn’t know you depended on so much.
But Rue doesn’t crumble—she adapts.
And that’s where the story shines.
Chloe? Absolute perfection.
Sharp, loyal, capable. She adds a grounded presence that balances Rue’s chaos. She’s exactly the kind of friend you want on your team when your emotional life is a magical dumpster fire.
Then there are the werewolves (whose names escape us both, but we love them anyway).
They’re not just backup anymore—they’re real characters with real arcs. They bring strength and vulnerability, and watching them step into their own is one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
The humor still sparkles, but the emotional moments cut sharper now.
The action escalates. The team tightens. Rue grows—not by becoming someone new, but by embracing all the mess she already is.
Gray Seas doesn’t just continue the series—it anchors it.
It’s the calm and the storm.
And you already know you're not stopping here.
But Rue doesn’t crumble—she adapts.
And that’s where the story shines.
Chloe? Absolute perfection.
Sharp, loyal, capable. She adds a grounded presence that balances Rue’s chaos. She’s exactly the kind of friend you want on your team when your emotional life is a magical dumpster fire.
Then there are the werewolves (whose names escape us both, but we love them anyway).
They’re not just backup anymore—they’re real characters with real arcs. They bring strength and vulnerability, and watching them step into their own is one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
The humor still sparkles, but the emotional moments cut sharper now.
The action escalates. The team tightens. Rue grows—not by becoming someone new, but by embracing all the mess she already is.
Gray Seas doesn’t just continue the series—it anchors it.
It’s the calm and the storm.
And you already know you're not stopping here.
January 16, 2024
Rue’s love for Asa literally blew up the challenge between Asa (as Blay) and Stavros which she figured would put a price on Asa head but instead it put a huge target on Rue’s back (like she doesn’t have enough of those already). Rue comes up with a plan to hopefully take Stavros out of the equation and prays it works for both of their sakes. To complicate matters someone is sending Rue’s messages by carving into the victim’s bodies plus it seems someone else is also trying to kill her.
Through the series, we’ve seen Rue grow as a gray witch and the empathy she now has for others is something that still surprises her and her fellow agents. She is trying really hard to keep up her bad girl image so those within the Black Hat Bureau don’t realize she is no longer a black witch but that’s easier said then done. Rue’s team is just a lot of fun. You’ve got Blay (Asa’s beast) who is like a little kid in a daemon body, Clay might be a golem who can be controlled but is the king of fun and then there’s Colby, the person who Rue cares more about in the whole world than anything, is full of love, sassiness and brains making this rag tag team one you would want to partner with anytime.
Through the series, we’ve seen Rue grow as a gray witch and the empathy she now has for others is something that still surprises her and her fellow agents. She is trying really hard to keep up her bad girl image so those within the Black Hat Bureau don’t realize she is no longer a black witch but that’s easier said then done. Rue’s team is just a lot of fun. You’ve got Blay (Asa’s beast) who is like a little kid in a daemon body, Clay might be a golem who can be controlled but is the king of fun and then there’s Colby, the person who Rue cares more about in the whole world than anything, is full of love, sassiness and brains making this rag tag team one you would want to partner with anytime.
February 11, 2024
nice series, love the characters
nice series, love the characters. They’re all so humorous and have a lot of witty comments. I love books like that, where they truly sound and feel like real characters. All the other books have been great and pretty action or drama filled. This one however was just a little slow going, and really not much happening other than going from one place to another, derailed descriptions of each of their meals as they go, sex and the antics of the shifters, until the end, and even that was just an occurrence, the characters had no play or action in that dramatic ending, other than shock and awe. There were a couple of sentences that were a bit confusing to me, especially the one where they’re in Fairie and speaking of Cale. It may just be me and my brain and the conversation just went “whoop” right over my head. Lol But just in case, I highlighted it with the question and my confusion(in case the author would like to look). Anyway, love❤️ the series so I’m continuing on to number nine. 👍
nice series, love the characters. They’re all so humorous and have a lot of witty comments. I love books like that, where they truly sound and feel like real characters. All the other books have been great and pretty action or drama filled. This one however was just a little slow going, and really not much happening other than going from one place to another, derailed descriptions of each of their meals as they go, sex and the antics of the shifters, until the end, and even that was just an occurrence, the characters had no play or action in that dramatic ending, other than shock and awe. There were a couple of sentences that were a bit confusing to me, especially the one where they’re in Fairie and speaking of Cale. It may just be me and my brain and the conversation just went “whoop” right over my head. Lol But just in case, I highlighted it with the question and my confusion(in case the author would like to look). Anyway, love❤️ the series so I’m continuing on to number nine. 👍
July 3, 2025
Poor Rue has a lot on her plate at the moment. She’s trying to generally make changes for the better in the Black Hat Bureau, protect her mate from retaliation after her kaboom in Hael, avoid getting kaboomed herself, avoid whoever is carving up victims, stop whoever is poisoning folks, and keep the Wargs generally in line. Not too much, right? Well the end of this one adds even more to her plate.
Rue and her crew are the best, and now that we’ve got the Warg crew in some books, I’m completely on board with their food-heavy adventures. This book is a lot of chasing clues, travel, legal negotiation, lack of sleep, and it always seems to end with Rue adopting more misfits. I was very sad to get inside her cousin’s head for some chapters, but do still hold out hope that we get a happy ending for him and a certain human. This whole entire crew needs a nice roadtrip/vacation short story where they can shake it the sillies when the dust settles here. Or people stop getting blown up. Sigh.
Rue and her crew are the best, and now that we’ve got the Warg crew in some books, I’m completely on board with their food-heavy adventures. This book is a lot of chasing clues, travel, legal negotiation, lack of sleep, and it always seems to end with Rue adopting more misfits. I was very sad to get inside her cousin’s head for some chapters, but do still hold out hope that we get a happy ending for him and a certain human. This whole entire crew needs a nice roadtrip/vacation short story where they can shake it the sillies when the dust settles here. Or people stop getting blown up. Sigh.
January 25, 2025
After the mess from Asa’s failed fight with his father, things are getting worse. Since people believe that Rue and Asa are mated, the plan seems to be to kill her and he will die as well.
Unfortunately, no one really knows what’s happening. After some failed attempts on Rue’s life, more precautions are taken as they continue to track down Luca. But these precautions aren’t really helping.
There is action, danger, suspense, mystery, surprises and humour in this book. We find out more about the Black Hats, Hael, Aeden and Calisto, the alpha pair, Marita and Demmy, an assassin who is trying to impress Rue, both black and white witches, basically everyone.
I never really knew where this book was going, definitely not complaining, it made it very interesting.
A fun, quick, enjoyable read.
On a side note, I keep getting hungry reading these books, I want pastries, lobster, and a multitude of other foods.
Unfortunately, no one really knows what’s happening. After some failed attempts on Rue’s life, more precautions are taken as they continue to track down Luca. But these precautions aren’t really helping.
There is action, danger, suspense, mystery, surprises and humour in this book. We find out more about the Black Hats, Hael, Aeden and Calisto, the alpha pair, Marita and Demmy, an assassin who is trying to impress Rue, both black and white witches, basically everyone.
I never really knew where this book was going, definitely not complaining, it made it very interesting.
A fun, quick, enjoyable read.
On a side note, I keep getting hungry reading these books, I want pastries, lobster, and a multitude of other foods.
September 25, 2023
The battle continues
This eighth book in the series has us continuing on the path to Rue’s take down of the director and Asa and Rue dealing with the consequences of the last book’s battle between Asa and his father. We meet some new people and get more time with those we’ve met before. Battle lines are drawn and people are picking sides. As a and Rue have important decisions to make.
It’s been a while since I read book 7 so it took me some time to remember everything that happened and what the team was doing. There’s a lot of detail in these books so I think they are best read closely together. I’m lucky I read this one just as the next one was released because there’s a big cliffhanger at the end and so many elements of the story hang in the balance. I’m glad I can get right into it and not have to wait to see what comes next.
This eighth book in the series has us continuing on the path to Rue’s take down of the director and Asa and Rue dealing with the consequences of the last book’s battle between Asa and his father. We meet some new people and get more time with those we’ve met before. Battle lines are drawn and people are picking sides. As a and Rue have important decisions to make.
It’s been a while since I read book 7 so it took me some time to remember everything that happened and what the team was doing. There’s a lot of detail in these books so I think they are best read closely together. I’m lucky I read this one just as the next one was released because there’s a big cliffhanger at the end and so many elements of the story hang in the balance. I’m glad I can get right into it and not have to wait to see what comes next.
February 8, 2025
Rue is having a difficult time with the loss of Aiden. She is desperate to bring the director down so she can get Aiden back. To do that she needs to stop Luca from killing the director first. Unfortunately, her search for Luca takes on a sense of emergency when a poison called king killer comes to the surface. It is extremely toxic to paranormal beings. Luca seems to be involved in the trade. Parts of the story are told from Aiden’s POV and his situation is heart breaking. Luckily, warg Marita is with Rue part of the time. She and her mate Darry bring some much-needed humor to break up the action. This book ends with big changes to the Black Hat Bureau. I am glad I have the next book to jump right into. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy.
I listened to the audiobook. Narrator Stephanie Richardson does a great job bringing the characters to life.
I listened to the audiobook. Narrator Stephanie Richardson does a great job bringing the characters to life.
June 24, 2023
There are a few authors that I just can’t wait to read, and this author is one of them. She makes the people and places seem so very real, it’s like they become family. In this latest, we see Asa, Rue, Colby, and a few others on the hunt for the black witches to use as bait. But nothing goes the way they think it will, and, as always, chaos reigns. I just love how the author is so intricately weaves so many plots together, and we also get to see what’s happening to Aedan with Calixta. Add in the way this book ends, and I’m just overwhelmed at how great this book was. A well-written, action-packed, unputdownable, non-stop thrill ride. Lots and lots more, please! Very highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
October 8, 2023
I love this series, and it just gets more interesting with each new story. Rue’s life is getting more complicated all the time. With a killer on her trail, she asks Marita to help protect Asa, as he heals from his injuries. Marita is a loose cannon, and then her husband Derry shows up, and between the two of them, life is never dull for the rest of the crew. Clay and Colby, are also along for the ride, and as they try to figure out who is trying to kill Rue, bodies show up with messages carved in them, and more clues are discovered about the deadly plot against the Black Hat Bureau. When the story ends, circumstances have changed significantly, but the mission remains. I’m reading the next story right away because I have to know what happens to Rue and her chosen family and friends.
September 3, 2023
I've got to be honest here. Because I binge read the last 3 books in this series, in my review of Gray Court, book #7 I mistakenly included a lot of information about this book too. So I'm just going to tell you this book is a thrilling page turner. Rue and Asa are forced to rethink previous decisions about the direction of their futures while trying to avoid being killed while hunting down Luca who is plotting to destroy the Black Hat Bureau, discover what her plans are for using a poison herb only found in the Fairie dimension and find a way to free Rue's cousin from her grandmother. It's a lot as the book serves as the precursor to the final book in this series.
October 3, 2023
Nothing Happened
I feel like nothing happened in this book. You can reduce the book to 20 pages of actual needed content. I’m also tired of the MC stating that she is shocked people have faith in her. Grow some confidence.
Possible Spoiler
In addition, I don’t like her parents. I feel like they care more for each other than her. They have yet to have a meaningful conversation. They don’t seem to care how her childhood went. The “I Love You’s” seems empty and irritating. I understand that the parents had a hard time, but your child’s well being should come first especially if you were not there to protect her and she is in danger. But that is just my thoughts.
I feel like nothing happened in this book. You can reduce the book to 20 pages of actual needed content. I’m also tired of the MC stating that she is shocked people have faith in her. Grow some confidence.
Possible Spoiler
In addition, I don’t like her parents. I feel like they care more for each other than her. They have yet to have a meaningful conversation. They don’t seem to care how her childhood went. The “I Love You’s” seems empty and irritating. I understand that the parents had a hard time, but your child’s well being should come first especially if you were not there to protect her and she is in danger. But that is just my thoughts.
October 23, 2023
Enjoyable entry into the series, but I am glad I have the next one ready to go. I do not know how many books are in the series, but I am sure when I am done with the next, I will wish I had the next one to go because I feel the story is not going to wrap up in the next book. this one cannot be read as a stand alone. Even though she does give some details to help refresh your memory about previous books, it is not enough to get the relationships, or the plot to be able to fully enjoy this one. However, the others are good books, so go ahead and read them beforehand. Just be prepared to read the next one because they are so good.
June 30, 2023
Oh my....
I don't know how Hailey does it, but this series just keeps getting better and better. If you are just finding this series now, please start with Black Hat, White Witch and enjoy the journey. Rue is coming into her own as a leader in this book. She is finding unexpected allies, and trying to figure out what it means to trust. The last revelation has left both Asa and Rue reeling, and Aedion gives us glimpses of his new life. My heart is crying, but there is hope. We know by now that Rue doesn't actually let go of anyone she loves.
I don't know how Hailey does it, but this series just keeps getting better and better. If you are just finding this series now, please start with Black Hat, White Witch and enjoy the journey. Rue is coming into her own as a leader in this book. She is finding unexpected allies, and trying to figure out what it means to trust. The last revelation has left both Asa and Rue reeling, and Aedion gives us glimpses of his new life. My heart is crying, but there is hope. We know by now that Rue doesn't actually let go of anyone she loves.
July 21, 2023
Oh, the ending!
If this series stopped right here, I would be devastated and sad, but oddly satisfied.
**No Spoilers**
The journey Rue has taken with Asa, Clay, and family is starting to close the circle. I loved TBGTN series and it feels like we’re starting to see the beginning of the end to Black Hat Bureau as well. The book does end in a cliffhanger but what a wonderful way to shine light on the next one.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the next adventure and see how Aedan, Rue, Asa, Colby, Clay tackle the next life threatening situations.
If this series stopped right here, I would be devastated and sad, but oddly satisfied.
**No Spoilers**
The journey Rue has taken with Asa, Clay, and family is starting to close the circle. I loved TBGTN series and it feels like we’re starting to see the beginning of the end to Black Hat Bureau as well. The book does end in a cliffhanger but what a wonderful way to shine light on the next one.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the next adventure and see how Aedan, Rue, Asa, Colby, Clay tackle the next life threatening situations.
October 24, 2023
When Rue and Asa's plan to use Calixta to take over Stavros' throne and replace him as High Queen of Hiel, who knew it would back fire spectacularly. Indeed that took care of one daemon problem, but now Rue has to contend with Calixta...and get Aedan back.
Our girl can't get a lucky break.
She's fighting against a hidden black witch Luca, the one who freed her dad. She has assassins coming for her and Asa. The grimoire she calls "Hunk" is chipping away at her sanity. Plus her grandfather may be the one setting explosive to blow her up.
Our girl can't get a lucky break.
She's fighting against a hidden black witch Luca, the one who freed her dad. She has assassins coming for her and Asa. The grimoire she calls "Hunk" is chipping away at her sanity. Plus her grandfather may be the one setting explosive to blow her up.
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