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The Marnie Baranuik Files #2
Death Rejoices
Marnie Baranuik is back, and this time, the Great White Shark of psychic investigations has “people skills” and a new assistant who seems to harbor an unhealthy curiosity about Harry, her revenant companion. Together, they’ve got a whole lot of questions that need answering. Is an ancient vampire hunting in Denver? Who is stalking Lord Dreppenstedt? How do you cure a slipper-humping bat, ditch an ogre, or give a demon king the slip? And what the hell was she thinking, swearing off cookies?
Teaming up with her sexual nemesis, Special Agent Mark Batten, and their long-suffering supervisor, Gary Chapel, Marnie discovers that vampire hunters aren’t easy to rescue, secrets don’t stay buried, and zombies sure are a pain in the ass to kill.
Teaming up with her sexual nemesis, Special Agent Mark Batten, and their long-suffering supervisor, Gary Chapel, Marnie discovers that vampire hunters aren’t easy to rescue, secrets don’t stay buried, and zombies sure are a pain in the ass to kill.
575 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2013
196 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
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April 24, 2013
Football sized zombie spiders! There. Have I got your attention yet?
Strange and hilarious situations, a snarky sense of humor, and some scary paranormal adversaries including and not limited to zombies in furry costumes makes Death Rejoices one of my favorite urban fantasy reads so far this year. In fact, as I was reading this book, I couldn’t help but read parts out loud to my husband and other assorted family members and bursting out in laughter. Honestly, the situations Marnie finds herself in are both scary and hysterical.
Death Rejoices starts off furry. Yes, furry. It seems that attendees of a local FurCon have gone missing and Marnie and her gang are on a stakeout. And get this – Marnie is in a furry costume, too. She’s dressed as a squirrel and is on the lookout for a predator dressed as a white unicorn.
This installment of the Marnie Baranuik files brings on a slightly more mature Marnie. After all, she is now head of her own Preternatural Biology department at the FBI and she even has an assistant. Marnie has sworn off cookies (and is going through cookie withdrawal), but she still craves her sweets. She still acts a little impulsively and sometimes speaks without the benefit of a brain filter. Marnie still pines for Agent Mark Batten and her inner dialogue still has fond memories…Marnie has started taking self-defense training with Sherriff Hood. Her life at home is basically the same, and her brother Wes has joined her household under the tutelage of Harry while he adjusts to his new life.
What grabs me about this story (and this series) is how easy it is to relate to Marnie. She’s so down to earth despite all the crazy stuff she deals with on a daily basis. She longs for the simple things in life – her old Buick, even when she has a shiny new car in her driveway.. Zombie horde attacking? Not on her day off. And the men in her life? Interesting complications
I am amused by the men in Marnie’s life. The hunky Mark Batten is front and center in Marnie’s thoughts. So much so, that the underlying sexual tension between the two sizzles. Marnie has wasted a lot of energy being mad at Mark, and she doesn’t see what everyone else around her does. I loved how Mark calls Marnie Snickerdoodle and how she calls him Hunkypants. So cute.
Then there’s Harry, the vampire Marnie “inherited” from her grandmother. Harry and Marnie are quite domestic with each other. He cooks and cares for her, she feeds him. They even argue like an old married couple. They share a bond of DaySitter and vampire. It’s so fun to read Harry’s dialogue. His obscure and often archaic vocabulary had me hitting up the ereader dictionary often.
Marnie doesn’t have that many female friends. None at all. Her adversarial relationship with Agent Golden leads up to the best lines:
Thank you to the publisher for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on Badass Book Reviews.
Strange and hilarious situations, a snarky sense of humor, and some scary paranormal adversaries including and not limited to zombies in furry costumes makes Death Rejoices one of my favorite urban fantasy reads so far this year. In fact, as I was reading this book, I couldn’t help but read parts out loud to my husband and other assorted family members and bursting out in laughter. Honestly, the situations Marnie finds herself in are both scary and hysterical.
Death Rejoices starts off furry. Yes, furry. It seems that attendees of a local FurCon have gone missing and Marnie and her gang are on a stakeout. And get this – Marnie is in a furry costume, too. She’s dressed as a squirrel and is on the lookout for a predator dressed as a white unicorn.
This installment of the Marnie Baranuik files brings on a slightly more mature Marnie. After all, she is now head of her own Preternatural Biology department at the FBI and she even has an assistant. Marnie has sworn off cookies (and is going through cookie withdrawal), but she still craves her sweets. She still acts a little impulsively and sometimes speaks without the benefit of a brain filter. Marnie still pines for Agent Mark Batten and her inner dialogue still has fond memories…Marnie has started taking self-defense training with Sherriff Hood. Her life at home is basically the same, and her brother Wes has joined her household under the tutelage of Harry while he adjusts to his new life.
What grabs me about this story (and this series) is how easy it is to relate to Marnie. She’s so down to earth despite all the crazy stuff she deals with on a daily basis. She longs for the simple things in life – her old Buick, even when she has a shiny new car in her driveway.. Zombie horde attacking? Not on her day off. And the men in her life? Interesting complications
I am amused by the men in Marnie’s life. The hunky Mark Batten is front and center in Marnie’s thoughts. So much so, that the underlying sexual tension between the two sizzles. Marnie has wasted a lot of energy being mad at Mark, and she doesn’t see what everyone else around her does. I loved how Mark calls Marnie Snickerdoodle and how she calls him Hunkypants. So cute.
Then there’s Harry, the vampire Marnie “inherited” from her grandmother. Harry and Marnie are quite domestic with each other. He cooks and cares for her, she feeds him. They even argue like an old married couple. They share a bond of DaySitter and vampire. It’s so fun to read Harry’s dialogue. His obscure and often archaic vocabulary had me hitting up the ereader dictionary often.
Marnie doesn’t have that many female friends. None at all. Her adversarial relationship with Agent Golden leads up to the best lines:
“When you walk into a man’s bedroom dressed for sex, Dr. Baranuik, does Darth Vader’s Imperial March start playing in your head?”
“The way I see it, there are educated, intelligent women, then there’s Marnie Baranuik, Mistress of Disaster.”I’ve now added Dr. Pepper to my Zombie Emergency Preparedness bag. Who knew? You can never be too prepared. Death Rejoices was a blast to read. And if you are wondering about the fangy frogs – grab a copy of this book!
Thank you to the publisher for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on Badass Book Reviews.
April 24, 2013
OMG! OMG! OMG! So, I was kinda already obsessed with Marnie and Harry and Mark Batten, but now, I am totally and utterly enraptured by this snarky, witty, and at times completely obscene threesome! They all drive me insane, yet I can never seem to pull myself away from them, and DEATH REJOICES was consuming.
At times, Marnie's responses to events left me belly laughing so hard I was nearly in tears. You just cannot find her humor anywhere else. AJ Aalto has produced such an amazing character in Marnie and I just wish that I could pull her out of the pages and introduce myself. You know, maybe bake some cookies, or well brownies since I'm kind of attached to Batten, and pick her brain. Not in the zombie sense! I really don't want a zombie Marnie, the conversation just wouldn't be the same! Anyhoo... what was I saying? Oh yea, chatting with Marnie would be the most fascinating conversation of my life. While I love her humor and innuendo, I think it's quite obvious she uses it as a shield against her insecurities, and I'm really hoping that eventually someone cracks that nut.
I'm curious to see where things go in the next book... so I might have to hunt AJ down and threaten her with zombie infection to make sure book 3 gets here sooner rather than later. I'm not sure how long I could possibly wait. There are just sooo many questions I want answers to! I'm kind of demanding that way! I can tell how much fun AJ has writing these books, because I have so much fun reading them. The writing is creative and captivating, and I have to admit that I've never, ever read another book/author that had me so enthralled and invested in the characters.
AND... while this is an adult novel complete with sex and plenty of sexual innuendo (which I don't mind in the least) the story can complete stand on its own without those elements. It's not all about the sex, although the innuendo and desire is an integral part of Marnie's character, the sexual themes do not drive the story. This is not erotica and I wouldn't even classify it as romance, it's Supernatural, Paranormal, Fantasy, and Mystery with a "lust triangle" build in. A "lust triangle" that I really hope gets explored even more deeply in the future, because I'm extremely interested in the feelings that Marnie appears to be hiding.
Ok ok, I will quit rambling. But seriously, this is one of my favorite series! And an amazing sequel! I'm so excited to be able to share it with all of you. So, if you've been hiding under a rock or just haven't stumbled on to THE MARNIE BARANUIK FILES yet, please please please pick up a copy of book 1, TOUCHED! Oh, and A.J. assures me that Book 3, titled LAST IMPRESSIONS is in the works and coming soon, complete with new team members! By now, you are all probably aware that I RARELY ramble on this long about a book, so take the hint please and check it out.
At times, Marnie's responses to events left me belly laughing so hard I was nearly in tears. You just cannot find her humor anywhere else. AJ Aalto has produced such an amazing character in Marnie and I just wish that I could pull her out of the pages and introduce myself. You know, maybe bake some cookies, or well brownies since I'm kind of attached to Batten, and pick her brain. Not in the zombie sense! I really don't want a zombie Marnie, the conversation just wouldn't be the same! Anyhoo... what was I saying? Oh yea, chatting with Marnie would be the most fascinating conversation of my life. While I love her humor and innuendo, I think it's quite obvious she uses it as a shield against her insecurities, and I'm really hoping that eventually someone cracks that nut.
I'm curious to see where things go in the next book... so I might have to hunt AJ down and threaten her with zombie infection to make sure book 3 gets here sooner rather than later. I'm not sure how long I could possibly wait. There are just sooo many questions I want answers to! I'm kind of demanding that way! I can tell how much fun AJ has writing these books, because I have so much fun reading them. The writing is creative and captivating, and I have to admit that I've never, ever read another book/author that had me so enthralled and invested in the characters.
AND... while this is an adult novel complete with sex and plenty of sexual innuendo (which I don't mind in the least) the story can complete stand on its own without those elements. It's not all about the sex, although the innuendo and desire is an integral part of Marnie's character, the sexual themes do not drive the story. This is not erotica and I wouldn't even classify it as romance, it's Supernatural, Paranormal, Fantasy, and Mystery with a "lust triangle" build in. A "lust triangle" that I really hope gets explored even more deeply in the future, because I'm extremely interested in the feelings that Marnie appears to be hiding.
Ok ok, I will quit rambling. But seriously, this is one of my favorite series! And an amazing sequel! I'm so excited to be able to share it with all of you. So, if you've been hiding under a rock or just haven't stumbled on to THE MARNIE BARANUIK FILES yet, please please please pick up a copy of book 1, TOUCHED! Oh, and A.J. assures me that Book 3, titled LAST IMPRESSIONS is in the works and coming soon, complete with new team members! By now, you are all probably aware that I RARELY ramble on this long about a book, so take the hint please and check it out.
June 18, 2015
Marnie Baranuik is back with all of her excellent one liners and highlighter worthy curse words that I can't wait to try out on my mother. She hates that shit, but tolerates it because I'm the favourite.
Speaking of favourites. Marnie, AKA Snickerdoodle AKA Doom Chasm. LOVE HER.
Then there is Harry, Marnie's Cold Company and at on occasion hot, sexy revenant lover. Seriously hot. LOVE HIM. Relationship goals right there.
Complaints:
1. The love triangle thing is weird, but only moderately annoying in that I can't see the point of it or where it could possibly go.
2. This book felt really unnecessarily long. It is fortunate that the dialogue and support characters are so wonderful that they overshadow what is, in my opinion, a fairly weak story.
BR with darling Shelly
Speaking of favourites. Marnie, AKA Snickerdoodle AKA Doom Chasm. LOVE HER.
Then there is Harry, Marnie's Cold Company and at on occasion hot, sexy revenant lover. Seriously hot. LOVE HIM. Relationship goals right there.
Complaints:
1. The love triangle thing is weird, but only moderately annoying in that I can't see the point of it or where it could possibly go.
2. This book felt really unnecessarily long. It is fortunate that the dialogue and support characters are so wonderful that they overshadow what is, in my opinion, a fairly weak story.
BR with darling Shelly
January 26, 2019
I have no idea how to rate this. On the one hand you have an interesting take on vampires and other various magical themes.
On the other hand, I have a love-hate relationship with the main character.
Marnie is different. I can't really write about her without spoiling things, so I'll just leave it at that. The fact it took me a couple of days to read it isn't a point in the book's favour.
On the other hand, I have a love-hate relationship with the main character.
Marnie is different. I can't really write about her without spoiling things, so I'll just leave it at that. The fact it took me a couple of days to read it isn't a point in the book's favour.
January 5, 2014
It's official, I'm in love. In fact, I'm ready to start this book back from the beginning because I'm not ready to leave Marnie's world yet.
I love Marnie's sassy, snarky, and sometimes downright hilarious narration. Marnie might be a klutz, but you'd never mistake her for a damsel in distress. It's so refreshing to have a character that confronts her problems head on. There are no long, drawn out periods of angst waiting for Marnie to draw an obvious conclusion. She might not act on all her feelings *cough Batten cough* but she acknowledges them.
What I loved about this book was that I had no idea where the mystery was going until the very end. It seemed like Aalto had 3 unrelated plot lines going on (though very well written and therefore not confusing) until she rounded things up at the last minute in a way that made perfect sense. There are of course the subplots of 1) the Harry-Marnie-Batten triangle and 2)Asmodeus making demands, both of which carried through the book. I don't know if I'll ever tire of reading the tension between Marnie and Batten build, anxiously waiting to see if it will break.
I fell more in love with Batten in Death Rejoices. I was already hooked after Touched, but this book cemented it. He's always changing, sliding from sexy to sweet to grumpy and back again, drawing in the reader (and Marnie) all the while. He's getting a little less prickly, and Marnie's resistance seems like it's weakening.
Harry was equally enthralling. Marnie might be able to feel his emotions, but that doesn't make it any easier to discern his thoughts. One set of questions regarding Harry's relationship with Marnie is answered...but it only leads to more questions. At points it seems like his words of affection are hollow, but then other moments make it appear as though he is completely devoted to Marnie. Harry is both more involved and less involved in the mystery than originally expected. I'm still unsure about the nature of his relationship with Chapel, who continues to suffer strange effects from the daughir bond.
I can't wait to read the next book. I hope it comes out very soon!
I love Marnie's sassy, snarky, and sometimes downright hilarious narration. Marnie might be a klutz, but you'd never mistake her for a damsel in distress. It's so refreshing to have a character that confronts her problems head on. There are no long, drawn out periods of angst waiting for Marnie to draw an obvious conclusion. She might not act on all her feelings *cough Batten cough* but she acknowledges them.
What I loved about this book was that I had no idea where the mystery was going until the very end. It seemed like Aalto had 3 unrelated plot lines going on (though very well written and therefore not confusing) until she rounded things up at the last minute in a way that made perfect sense. There are of course the subplots of 1) the Harry-Marnie-Batten triangle and 2)Asmodeus making demands, both of which carried through the book. I don't know if I'll ever tire of reading the tension between Marnie and Batten build, anxiously waiting to see if it will break.
I fell more in love with Batten in Death Rejoices. I was already hooked after Touched, but this book cemented it. He's always changing, sliding from sexy to sweet to grumpy and back again, drawing in the reader (and Marnie) all the while. He's getting a little less prickly, and Marnie's resistance seems like it's weakening.
Harry was equally enthralling. Marnie might be able to feel his emotions, but that doesn't make it any easier to discern his thoughts. One set of questions regarding Harry's relationship with Marnie is answered...but it only leads to more questions. At points it seems like his words of affection are hollow, but then other moments make it appear as though he is completely devoted to Marnie. Harry is both more involved and less involved in the mystery than originally expected. I'm still unsure about the nature of his relationship with Chapel, who continues to suffer strange effects from the daughir bond.
I can't wait to read the next book. I hope it comes out very soon!
October 17, 2023
Three years later, and I have re-read “Death Rejoices.” From this distance in time, and having cleansed my palette of nearly all smut. This book really has no redeeming qualities other than the author’s creativity, but sometimes a romp through sex and gore and zombies and vampires is just what I need. A delightful stroll down memory lane with familiar characters, new characters, and new horrors clears my brain of quiet, sometimes dull, books of other types. Both seem to be integral parts of my makeup.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: Ummmm . . . well, A. J. Aalto shows that amazing creative bent displayed in "Touched," but "Death Rejoices" felt disappointing to me in a manner that felt like it was too much of a stretch for me. Perhaps, if I read it again, I might like it better, which I plan to do, but not immediately. It seems like Baranuik is really cursed and out of control. It was a bit of teaser in the back story of some of the repeat characters, and I did enjoy this aspect of the book. The back story left me wanting to know even more about the other main characters. Although I certainly didn't like this book as much as I loved the first, I am willing to explore another one in the series before closing the door completely. Not suitable for anyone below a young adult level and caution, as well as explanations, may be necessary for young adults. Fast-paced and quite imaginative.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: Ummmm . . . well, A. J. Aalto shows that amazing creative bent displayed in "Touched," but "Death Rejoices" felt disappointing to me in a manner that felt like it was too much of a stretch for me. Perhaps, if I read it again, I might like it better, which I plan to do, but not immediately. It seems like Baranuik is really cursed and out of control. It was a bit of teaser in the back story of some of the repeat characters, and I did enjoy this aspect of the book. The back story left me wanting to know even more about the other main characters. Although I certainly didn't like this book as much as I loved the first, I am willing to explore another one in the series before closing the door completely. Not suitable for anyone below a young adult level and caution, as well as explanations, may be necessary for young adults. Fast-paced and quite imaginative.
July 30, 2014
This is a crazy series and this second book is even crazier than the first. The dialogue is so ridiculously inappropriate at times, and the characters are pretty out there. But I really enjoy this series and this book. There is some really disturbing content, so be warned.
Overall rating: 4.5/5.0 stars.
Reviewed for Bitten by Books. http://bittenbybooks.com.
Overall rating: 4.5/5.0 stars.
Reviewed for Bitten by Books. http://bittenbybooks.com.
May 30, 2014
This series just keeps getting better and better. Death Rejoices is, simply put, 574 pages of toe-curling goodness as we revisit foul-mouthed Marnie Baranuik, day sitter to Harry, the charming revenant and her hot-bodied men (and otherwise), with whom she shares her hilarious adventures. You know you’re in for the ride of your life when a book starts off with an oversexed undercover agent in a fursuit, at a sex party, WITHOUT a slit... Think YOUR life is complicated? It’s got nothing – NOTHING on Marnie’s life: Try fending off a necrophiliac Ogre who loves to lick your vampires when you’re out on day-time assignments ("Naked undead ogre... Worst.Alarm clock.Ever."), a stalker tooth, berserker zombies, nightmarish, head-leaping spiders, a multiheaded, kinky nipple/breast loving freak known as the Overlord, really old dudes with wings, a shapeshifting relative who likes to sexually violate your fuzzy slipper in bat form AND being sexually denied by the men you lust after. All whilst dealing with a mysterious, nosy researcher from overseas. No wonder Marnie’s creative with her curses!
You think you know the paranormal romance genre, and then you run into this book. It’s part mystery, part farce. Never (EVER!) has gore been this entertaining! There’s something for everyone - witty banter, sexual tension, creative vulgarity, and cleverly outlined characters.
It’s a good thing Aalto’s books tend to be long, because you’ll never want them to end! There’s not a dull moment in the series. (Unfortunately) time will fly by, and then you will wind up stalking Aalto’s discussion boards, hoping to get your greedy little hands on an ARC. (Unsuccessfully, *sigh*)
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. If you don’t want to read it, you’re just dumb. STUPID! Easily worth 6 stars or more! Hear that, Goodreads, I need more stars! All thanks to Marnie & co. Let’s just say: Friday 13th is my new lucky day. Why? Because it’s the release date for Marnie Baranuik Last Impressions, of course! (Squee!)
(And yes, I really needed to use caps lock that much...)
You think you know the paranormal romance genre, and then you run into this book. It’s part mystery, part farce. Never (EVER!) has gore been this entertaining! There’s something for everyone - witty banter, sexual tension, creative vulgarity, and cleverly outlined characters.
It’s a good thing Aalto’s books tend to be long, because you’ll never want them to end! There’s not a dull moment in the series. (Unfortunately) time will fly by, and then you will wind up stalking Aalto’s discussion boards, hoping to get your greedy little hands on an ARC. (Unsuccessfully, *sigh*)
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. If you don’t want to read it, you’re just dumb. STUPID! Easily worth 6 stars or more! Hear that, Goodreads, I need more stars! All thanks to Marnie & co. Let’s just say: Friday 13th is my new lucky day. Why? Because it’s the release date for Marnie Baranuik Last Impressions, of course! (Squee!)
(And yes, I really needed to use caps lock that much...)
June 14, 2017
Another intriguing and fun addition to this series. Little by little we're drawn into the mystery surrounding Marnie, the heroine. There is something there that Harry, her Cold Companion, knows but isn't yet revealing. Not to mention, she's now facing zombies and an old Revanent, and her brother has turned into a bat that freaks her out. The mystery, fun and a little heat dials up for a great read!
May 27, 2018
I loved this book as much as the first. I am so impressed with this local talent! Marnie is an inspiration to us all, and in a weird way she is proof that we can all accomplish so much more than we believe is possible.
My only complaint is the length of the book. We could have lost about 150 pages and still accomplished the same goal.
My only complaint is the length of the book. We could have lost about 150 pages and still accomplished the same goal.
December 17, 2015
4.5
I'm glad I found this series. I'm just so enamored of Harry, Marnie just tires me the hell out with her raging libido and makes me burst into laughter like a crazy person-thankfully where people don't look at me funny-with her crude mouth and accident prone ways. I love that even the minor characters are layered with personality, that this world that Marnie inhabits makes me more curious to explore it and learn more of it. The biology and the magical aspects of both the beings and their talents in this series are giving me a new and fresh perspective that reminds me why I loved this genre a few years ago.
In this addition to the series Marnie meets new faces-of preternaturals and people, as well as more complications. Now that she's part of Gary's team in the FBI's Preternatural Crimes Unit, Marnie has to keep her hands-as well as other parts-away from Mark Batten, keep control of her mouth (not a chance in hell that's happening.), and stop being a walking disaster. Like having a new assistant that's hiding more than just 'what' he is, fighting her attraction to Batten, releasing Gary from his role as dhaugir, trying not to jump Batten, healing her severely injured brother (who later turns into a bat), and keeping her clothes on in front of Batten is not enough, Marnie's to do list keeps getting longer. Dealing with a necrophiliac ogre, a Prior gone bad, creepy zombies, and the King of Demons wanting his hands on a deadly hybrid is all in a day's work...especially when she's suffering through defensive tactics training and a severe case of corpsepox.
Mark Batten is a little more open and approachable in this one and I liked it, but the idea of him and Marnie just doesn't get me excited. I don't know if it's because this 'potential' love triangle reminds me of another one that imploded with disastrous consequences all around and I simply don't want to see it with this three. Harry shone for me because there's a bit more of his past that's revealed and his actions in regards to the bond are laid out in the open. He was also a little paternal, taking Wes (Marnie's brother) protectively under his wing and caring for Wes when he got hurt. I admit I'm curious at his connection with Gary but it's a mystery that's piquing my interest without frustrating me.
All in all I found this book as enjoyable as the first one, this series is definitely going on my auto buy list.
I'm glad I found this series. I'm just so enamored of Harry, Marnie just tires me the hell out with her raging libido and makes me burst into laughter like a crazy person-thankfully where people don't look at me funny-with her crude mouth and accident prone ways. I love that even the minor characters are layered with personality, that this world that Marnie inhabits makes me more curious to explore it and learn more of it. The biology and the magical aspects of both the beings and their talents in this series are giving me a new and fresh perspective that reminds me why I loved this genre a few years ago.
In this addition to the series Marnie meets new faces-of preternaturals and people, as well as more complications. Now that she's part of Gary's team in the FBI's Preternatural Crimes Unit, Marnie has to keep her hands-as well as other parts-away from Mark Batten, keep control of her mouth (not a chance in hell that's happening.), and stop being a walking disaster. Like having a new assistant that's hiding more than just 'what' he is, fighting her attraction to Batten, releasing Gary from his role as dhaugir, trying not to jump Batten, healing her severely injured brother (who later turns into a bat), and keeping her clothes on in front of Batten is not enough, Marnie's to do list keeps getting longer. Dealing with a necrophiliac ogre, a Prior gone bad, creepy zombies, and the King of Demons wanting his hands on a deadly hybrid is all in a day's work...especially when she's suffering through defensive tactics training and a severe case of corpsepox.
Mark Batten is a little more open and approachable in this one and I liked it, but the idea of him and Marnie just doesn't get me excited. I don't know if it's because this 'potential' love triangle reminds me of another one that imploded with disastrous consequences all around and I simply don't want to see it with this three. Harry shone for me because there's a bit more of his past that's revealed and his actions in regards to the bond are laid out in the open. He was also a little paternal, taking Wes (Marnie's brother) protectively under his wing and caring for Wes when he got hurt. I admit I'm curious at his connection with Gary but it's a mystery that's piquing my interest without frustrating me.
All in all I found this book as enjoyable as the first one, this series is definitely going on my auto buy list.
January 23, 2015
For those of you who don’t know me personally, I do not like scary movies, books or haunted houses. I just don’t do well with suspense or surprise situations. It’s to an unreasonable degree that I am startled when people walk up behind me at work resulting in unprofessional squawks at times. Yet despite these books being heavy on the horror, AJ Aalto has me gleefully looking forward to what’s next. She manages to take genuinely horrifying circumstances, adds cynicism, wit, sexual innuendos and somehow it results in laughing to tears. Marnie is such a fantastic character; she is definitely someone I wish had my back in real life. I also wouldn’t mind having Harry as a roommate. These books are genuinely fun to read and infused with such hilarity I imagine Aalto had a blast writing them.
In this continuation of Marnie’s woes, three furries have gone missing. This mystery results in the reasonable situation of Marnie dressed in a squirrel suit trying to shy away from an over-eager “unicorn”. Throw in a few zombies and revenants and you have one heck of a knotty situation for Marnie to untangle. If that doesn’t catch your attention, then I don’t know what will!
Warning: Contains graphic horror (gore in ample amounts), sexual content and violence.
Who should read it? Paranormal fans who will enjoy a dose of horror and British flair.
See all my reviews and more at www.ReadingToDistraction.com or @Read2Distract
In this continuation of Marnie’s woes, three furries have gone missing. This mystery results in the reasonable situation of Marnie dressed in a squirrel suit trying to shy away from an over-eager “unicorn”. Throw in a few zombies and revenants and you have one heck of a knotty situation for Marnie to untangle. If that doesn’t catch your attention, then I don’t know what will!
Warning: Contains graphic horror (gore in ample amounts), sexual content and violence.
Who should read it? Paranormal fans who will enjoy a dose of horror and British flair.
See all my reviews and more at www.ReadingToDistraction.com or @Read2Distract
October 2, 2015
Marnie, oh Marnie. You made me bust a gut again. There are some great new characters in this book, Declan and Golden. Fun danger ensued all around. It was an easy fun read.
BUT, the first book introduced Marnie with her empathic psychic powers as one of her major features. She's still wearing a lot of gloves in this one, but her proximity empathy is hardly present in this book. It's almost like the author decided that wasn't a fun character device and dropped it except for token mentions. This kind is major inconsistency bothers me.
Plus, there were a few too many subplots going on. This started to feel like a tangled ball of Wha-what? and around the 70% mark, I was ready for the whirly ride to end so I could lose my confused lunch.
And, I can't keep liking a character that is having hot monkey sex with one dude while still actively lusting after and flirting with another. Tramps just aren't cool. For all that I enjoy Marnie's sharp humor and locker room outlook, throw in the outright trampness and her intelligence and humor are no longer as redeeming. It's too much trashiness to overcome.
But it was funny and I'm glad I finished it.
BUT, the first book introduced Marnie with her empathic psychic powers as one of her major features. She's still wearing a lot of gloves in this one, but her proximity empathy is hardly present in this book. It's almost like the author decided that wasn't a fun character device and dropped it except for token mentions. This kind is major inconsistency bothers me.
Plus, there were a few too many subplots going on. This started to feel like a tangled ball of Wha-what? and around the 70% mark, I was ready for the whirly ride to end so I could lose my confused lunch.
And, I can't keep liking a character that is having hot monkey sex with one dude while still actively lusting after and flirting with another. Tramps just aren't cool. For all that I enjoy Marnie's sharp humor and locker room outlook, throw in the outright trampness and her intelligence and humor are no longer as redeeming. It's too much trashiness to overcome.
But it was funny and I'm glad I finished it.
May 12, 2013
2.5 stars. This was a disappointment to me after enjoying Touched so much. First off, it was far too long. At 573 pages, the plot ambled along too slowly without getting to the meat of the story soon enough. And then when it did, I had mostly lost interest along the way. I'm not sure I'll continue with this author.
July 20, 2014
I liked this book even better than the first in the series. I am still confused about Marnie's relationship with Harry and how it effects her love life.
September 4, 2015
Ugh!
I LOVED Touched, the first book of the series. I gave it 5 freaking stars. How the second book, Death Rejoices could be a DNF is mind-boggling. So let me break this down for you.
It started out great! Fun, snarky Marnie was the best. I was laughing my ass off. She has that stupid hilarious sense of humor. And that lasted for the 35% of the book I read. I am not talking about spaced throughout, I'm saying that Marnie used childish and sexual humor the whole fucking time. Every sentence out of her mouth was an ill-timed joke. A girl needs a break, people! That is too much. Even during very serious situations Marnie was giving us one-liners and sarcasm and I wanted to punch her in the face 10% in.
Then there is the sexual stuff. If Marnie is not making jokes she is sucking a fat one. Okay, she's not actually sucking a fat one, but she is thinking about sucking a fat one. You know the false saying that men think of sex every 6 seconds or something. Obviously that is impossible. Not for Marnie. That bitch thinks of nothing but sex and bad jokes. I couldn't take this chick seriously. She was funny and horny in the first book but it was spread out and it worked. Not this time around.
Then the straw that broke the camel's back. This is a little spoilery: Some asshole just attacked Marnie's vampire brother and permanently disfigured him. Marnie chases after the a-hole into the woods. When she finally tackles him she...are you ready for this...she is so horny she starts humping him. Yes, you heard me right. She dry humps and sticks her boobs into the face of the man who harmed her brother not one minute ago because, "she can't help herself." And that's when I threw the book across the room, or I would have if it were not an ebook. I just...I...how the hell am I suppose to get over that?
You may think, hey, at least you only read up to 35%. Yeah, well, this book is freaking 574 pages long. So I suffered through 200 pages of this drivel. I feel so violated. I kept thinking it would get better but it only got worse. Suffice it to say, I do not recommend this book.
Quotes
Even though I didn't like the book, I did want to show the potential this book had with some funny quotes:
“Look, I'm sick. It's early. Don't tick me off or I'll toss your salad.” He stopped short, and I could tell he wanted to gape at me, but was too tired to bother. “Whatever could that phrase mean, my darling?” I shrugged. “Heard it in a movie once. It's something they do to each other in prison, so it's gotta be bad.”
“Have we met?” I asked. “Because I don't recognize you at all.” “Then by all means, allow me to introduce myself,” Harry said, his easy playfulness returning. He stepped closer, straightening the blood-soaked black lace at his collar, backing me up with his soft, padding approach. “I am the icy push of immortality through your veins. I am the grave-wrought hand around your heart. I am the cold wind that blows up your skirt.” He crooked a brow at me. “Do you require a more tangible reminder, DaySitter?”
This review was originally posted on Bad Bird Reads
I LOVED Touched, the first book of the series. I gave it 5 freaking stars. How the second book, Death Rejoices could be a DNF is mind-boggling. So let me break this down for you.
It started out great! Fun, snarky Marnie was the best. I was laughing my ass off. She has that stupid hilarious sense of humor. And that lasted for the 35% of the book I read. I am not talking about spaced throughout, I'm saying that Marnie used childish and sexual humor the whole fucking time. Every sentence out of her mouth was an ill-timed joke. A girl needs a break, people! That is too much. Even during very serious situations Marnie was giving us one-liners and sarcasm and I wanted to punch her in the face 10% in.
Then there is the sexual stuff. If Marnie is not making jokes she is sucking a fat one. Okay, she's not actually sucking a fat one, but she is thinking about sucking a fat one. You know the false saying that men think of sex every 6 seconds or something. Obviously that is impossible. Not for Marnie. That bitch thinks of nothing but sex and bad jokes. I couldn't take this chick seriously. She was funny and horny in the first book but it was spread out and it worked. Not this time around.
Then the straw that broke the camel's back. This is a little spoilery: Some asshole just attacked Marnie's vampire brother and permanently disfigured him. Marnie chases after the a-hole into the woods. When she finally tackles him she...are you ready for this...she is so horny she starts humping him. Yes, you heard me right. She dry humps and sticks her boobs into the face of the man who harmed her brother not one minute ago because, "she can't help herself." And that's when I threw the book across the room, or I would have if it were not an ebook. I just...I...how the hell am I suppose to get over that?
You may think, hey, at least you only read up to 35%. Yeah, well, this book is freaking 574 pages long. So I suffered through 200 pages of this drivel. I feel so violated. I kept thinking it would get better but it only got worse. Suffice it to say, I do not recommend this book.
Quotes
Even though I didn't like the book, I did want to show the potential this book had with some funny quotes:
“Look, I'm sick. It's early. Don't tick me off or I'll toss your salad.” He stopped short, and I could tell he wanted to gape at me, but was too tired to bother. “Whatever could that phrase mean, my darling?” I shrugged. “Heard it in a movie once. It's something they do to each other in prison, so it's gotta be bad.”
“Have we met?” I asked. “Because I don't recognize you at all.” “Then by all means, allow me to introduce myself,” Harry said, his easy playfulness returning. He stepped closer, straightening the blood-soaked black lace at his collar, backing me up with his soft, padding approach. “I am the icy push of immortality through your veins. I am the grave-wrought hand around your heart. I am the cold wind that blows up your skirt.” He crooked a brow at me. “Do you require a more tangible reminder, DaySitter?”
This review was originally posted on Bad Bird Reads
June 10, 2016
I'm having great difficulty reviewing "Death Rejoices," book two in the Marnie Barsnuik series. On one hand the plot and humor is quite entertaining; however, on the other hand the book was too long, overly verbose and the author had a ridiculous fascination with alliteration in the first five chapters. So, many times I thought of giving up on reading this book but what kept me coming back was the characters and the humor.
In this episode Marnie is working with the FBI undercover. She is dressed up as a squirrel while infiltrating a kinky sex party suspected to be given by a serial killer. As she allows herself to be fondled by the creepy critters, the master vampire, Malas, hosting the party emerges but so does the leader of a radical religious group who spouts death to the abominations that are paranormal.
Before long zombies are showing up at almost every corner and the bodies are multiplying. Of. course sexy Agent Batten is there to both sexually arouse Marnie and aggravate her as well. Not to mention a beautiful and sexy Agent named Golden is not happy about Batten's attraction to Marnie.
Marnie takes her job as daykeeper seriously and wants to ring her vampire Harry's bells to a hot new tune. My,my,my! Meanwhile, Marnie is saddled with a new partner, DeClan who has an incredible interest in Harry. Of course, the demon, Asmodeus wants a piece of the zombie action and tries to get Marnie to do his bidding. Not!
If all of this is not enough, Marnie's recently turned brother, Wesley, is struggling with his new life as a vampire. Harry begs Marnie to stage an intervention. All is not what it seems in the world of Marnie Barsnuik but it sure is fun trying to figure it all out. As I stated earlier, I both enjoyed and was frustrated with this book. 500 plus pages were way too much of the overly verbose and silly ramblings from this author. I just hope she takes note and resolves these issues prior to releasing book three.
In this episode Marnie is working with the FBI undercover. She is dressed up as a squirrel while infiltrating a kinky sex party suspected to be given by a serial killer. As she allows herself to be fondled by the creepy critters, the master vampire, Malas, hosting the party emerges but so does the leader of a radical religious group who spouts death to the abominations that are paranormal.
Before long zombies are showing up at almost every corner and the bodies are multiplying. Of. course sexy Agent Batten is there to both sexually arouse Marnie and aggravate her as well. Not to mention a beautiful and sexy Agent named Golden is not happy about Batten's attraction to Marnie.
Marnie takes her job as daykeeper seriously and wants to ring her vampire Harry's bells to a hot new tune. My,my,my! Meanwhile, Marnie is saddled with a new partner, DeClan who has an incredible interest in Harry. Of course, the demon, Asmodeus wants a piece of the zombie action and tries to get Marnie to do his bidding. Not!
If all of this is not enough, Marnie's recently turned brother, Wesley, is struggling with his new life as a vampire. Harry begs Marnie to stage an intervention. All is not what it seems in the world of Marnie Barsnuik but it sure is fun trying to figure it all out. As I stated earlier, I both enjoyed and was frustrated with this book. 500 plus pages were way too much of the overly verbose and silly ramblings from this author. I just hope she takes note and resolves these issues prior to releasing book three.
June 10, 2013
I broke down and bought this book, I still really like the old characters, and the new ones as well. but basically feel the same way about the first book as I did the second. in all realty this one really didn't answer any questions I had from the first one, it was just another story about a case. again though something about these books make me want to read them, and then be irritated during and after :)
May 28, 2013
***4.5 stars***
What a great book. I really hope there will be another one....I am still cheering on Batten, lol.....Marnie is crazy but you got to love her spirit, haha....only thing that drives me crazy is her procrastination sometimes....you want to just yell at her to get on with it...overall, was a fun read and had me continuously laughing!!
What a great book. I really hope there will be another one....I am still cheering on Batten, lol.....Marnie is crazy but you got to love her spirit, haha....only thing that drives me crazy is her procrastination sometimes....you want to just yell at her to get on with it...overall, was a fun read and had me continuously laughing!!
June 2, 2013
LOL where do i start... Again A.J. Aalto had me laughing out loud at random times of the day. The quick wit & AMAZINGLY AWESOME foul language made me snicker & hope that i can use a fuckanut or nutty squirrel to purple pussy or stop arsing about in my real life...
Hope there will be a #3 soon
Hope there will be a #3 soon
August 25, 2015
I'm so in love with this series and the characters. It's slightly pathetic. It's so different and wonderful and ugh there are not enough words. I'm starting the 3rd one asap. This is madness.
November 28, 2017
3-1/2 stars: I would have given this book an extra star but I had the same complaints as I did with the previous book, only this time I found it more annoying since the book was even longer. This book could have been a good deal shorter if Aalto had focused on the actual story (which was quite good) and dropped a lot of Marnie’s sex obsessed fantasies. Some sexual innuendos and fantasies are fine but oh my goodness, this book had way too many for my personal taste. They didn’t do anything to move the story along, in fact, they just made the book drag at times. (Although given the high ratings, it didn’t bother most readers.) Also, I’m still not a huge fan of Harry. Marnie’s sexual tension with Batten is much more fun than her relationship with Harry (IMHO). I continue to like Marnie as a character and Amy McFadden’s portrayal of her in the audiobook is excellent. The storyline is good, though maybe a smidge less exciting than the first book. I love the two new FBI agents. Not sure at this time if I’m going to continue with the series, though. I think the parts that annoy me might outweigh the positives, especially given how long these books are.
December 31, 2019
I enjoyed this as much as the first book in the series, probably more.
Love it when that happens :)
More detailed RTC
Love it when that happens :)
More detailed RTC
November 13, 2022
4.5 stars.
I enjoyed this one even more than I enjoyed the first one. I really like Marnie - she's such a fun character, who manages to be oddly relatable despite her extraordinary life. I love the mix of the supernatural and science in this series, and the storyline in this was really exciting.
I enjoyed this one even more than I enjoyed the first one. I really like Marnie - she's such a fun character, who manages to be oddly relatable despite her extraordinary life. I love the mix of the supernatural and science in this series, and the storyline in this was really exciting.
January 11, 2018
Uh...zombunnies?!
If you've already met Marnie, this is just more...so much more of her shenanigans! So much more of everything that makes this series great-snarky klutziness with a side of magic, lust and laughter.
If you haven't met Marnie, you need to!
If you've already met Marnie, this is just more...so much more of her shenanigans! So much more of everything that makes this series great-snarky klutziness with a side of magic, lust and laughter.
If you haven't met Marnie, you need to!
September 16, 2014
I can honestly say that I don't think I have ever laughed so loud or so long about a scene in a book ever! Without giving up a major plot point the whole blowing up of a certain zombie had me in hysterics. I could see the whole scene in this book playing out in my head and Marnie's voice is such a unique one, it had me laughing frequently. Honestly I don't think I've read an urbane fantasy with such unique belly laugh out loud humour anywhere. And yet it is so dark and bleak at times I feel like I want to go in there and rescue Marnie myself. However the story sorts itself out and the only thing I am left wondering is exactly where is her love life going? Because there are just so many awesome men in her life! How can she have her cold company Harry and Mark 'Kill notch' Batten? They are both awesome but I have a very soft spot for Batten and am very intrigued about Marnie's future. I have to say I loved the introduction of Golden, I got it so wrong about her in the beginning, she is shaping up to be great girl friend material because that is surely what Marnie is lacking in her life. I adored this book, only trouble is I think it should come with a health warning - will get your heart rate going and never let it up!
September 28, 2022
I loved this one just as much as the first maybe more. And I definately have some more swears to add to my list to find reasons to use in the future. I love Marnie. Love love love love her. I almost wish she were real so we could be besties! I cannot wait to start the next book. Man I hope Irish comes back. I like him and Marnie needs some dude friends who she won't (hopefully?) try to bone. Also needs more chick friends. And more "people skills". I know its dumb but I'm practically praying nothing absolutely dreadful happens in the next book and it'll be all sunshine and rainbows. I am seriously so tired that I cannot possibly write anything better than this for a review. It is a little after 5AM and I haven't slept in almost a full day because I was so IN this book. My fiance couldn't even et me to put it down. Lol Welp fingers crossed that the next book will be another barrel of laughs.
January 6, 2016
Warning: This book contains sex, truly inventive foul language (even if we do not always know what Harry is saying), and even more horrific violence than Touched, but I absolutely loved every page of Death Rejoices. The new characters became just as important to the story, and me, as the original cast. The ogre, bat, Golden, and Declan are absolutely hysterical. Drunken Riverdancing should not be performed without a spotter. I had no trouble sleeping without nightmares, once I gave up finishing Death Rejoices and went to bed. I think I might like Marnie and crew so much because they remind of Scooby Doo and his gang or Abbott and Costello..."panic-arms" made me laugh so hard I could not breath. Death Rejoices deserves being described as a rollicking good horrific read. I cannot wait for Marnie File #3.
July 21, 2018
I'm struggling with this series. I like the heroine, Marnie. I like the plots. I think I'm supposed to like Harry but I just don't. It irritates me when he calls Marnie his Pet. He demeans her and is just autocratic. I grit my teeth every time he is on the page. I like Batten and the other FBI agents. I even liked Declan although I wasn't sure I trusted him. Harry is my big stopping point. Without him I'd have given the story more stars. Maybe it's just me, but he takes away from my enjoyment of the series. There are also still a lot of outstanding questions. No world building. We don't know how paranormal creatures became known or what their history is. We're told all Revenants are liars so how much of what we are told can we trust. This is the biggest problem with the story. I want to understand the world she is building.
August 14, 2015
This series must be read in order. This is the second book in the series.
While her Cold Company is across the pond, Dr. Marnie Baranuik decides to take SSA Chapel up on his offer and starts working full time at the FBI's PCU headquarters in Denver. Little does she know that she will end up in a squirrel suit looking for a pervy unicorn at a furry convention who may have something to do with the disappearance of three convention goers. Is this a mere mortal causing these abductions or is there something dark and supernatural behind them.
This is another great story filled with mysteries and plot twists that kept me guessing. I can't wait to read more from this author and most especially more from this series!
This book is suitable for adult readers only!
While her Cold Company is across the pond, Dr. Marnie Baranuik decides to take SSA Chapel up on his offer and starts working full time at the FBI's PCU headquarters in Denver. Little does she know that she will end up in a squirrel suit looking for a pervy unicorn at a furry convention who may have something to do with the disappearance of three convention goers. Is this a mere mortal causing these abductions or is there something dark and supernatural behind them.
This is another great story filled with mysteries and plot twists that kept me guessing. I can't wait to read more from this author and most especially more from this series!
This book is suitable for adult readers only!
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