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Broken Magic #3
Back Lash
USA Today Bestselling author Devon Monk returns to her gritty, magic-fueled, urban fantasy adventure. Cursed with Life and Death magic, enemies-to-brothers fight for dominance in a city full of bad guys that have no idea who they’re up against. * Fully updated author bursting with Heart, Snark, and Ass-kicking.*
Shame Flynn and Terric Conley hadn't meant to become the living, breathing vessels for Death and Life magic. But they hadn't meant to die, be reborn, break magic, save the world, and kill a few psychopaths along the way, either.
The one thing they had meant to do was to seal magic away once and for all, so it could never be used to kill again.
But when a string of dead bodies–people killed by magic–appear throughout Portland, Oregon, Shame and Terric must scramble to uncover who broke the locks on magic this time, and how.
And they need to do it fast. Before Terric’s sister becomes the next target, before the Russian mob locks them in their sights. And before an innocent child and her foolish father accidentally put themselves on the magic battlefield that will only get them killed.
Shame Flynn and Terric Conley hadn't meant to become the living, breathing vessels for Death and Life magic. But they hadn't meant to die, be reborn, break magic, save the world, and kill a few psychopaths along the way, either.
The one thing they had meant to do was to seal magic away once and for all, so it could never be used to kill again.
But when a string of dead bodies–people killed by magic–appear throughout Portland, Oregon, Shame and Terric must scramble to uncover who broke the locks on magic this time, and how.
And they need to do it fast. Before Terric’s sister becomes the next target, before the Russian mob locks them in their sights. And before an innocent child and her foolish father accidentally put themselves on the magic battlefield that will only get them killed.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2015
50 people are currently reading
491 people want to read
About the author
Devon Monk
88 books2,062 followersDevon Monk is a national best selling writer of urban fantasy. Her series include Ordinary Magic, House Immortal, Allie Beckstrom, Broken Magic and Shame and Terric. She also writes the Age of Steam steampunk series, and the occasional short story which can be found in her collection: A Cup of Normal, and in various anthologies. She has one husband, two sons, and lives in Oregon. When not writing, Devon is either drinking too much coffee or knitting silly things.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 18, 2016
Spoilers
Pretty good for a spin off of a spin off. Shame and Terric for the most part were entertaining, I wasn't into their whole emo magical connection or their angsty life/death magic issues though, it was repetitive and boring. Jolie was a nice addition to the gang, although I'm not keen on the romance between her and Shame, he's already had the doomed romance crap with Della, he doesn't need more romance-centric stories. Not to mention how weird it would be for him to end up with Terric's sister when he has a one of kind deep connection with Terric, as well as them having a profound love for each other. Jolie would be second best to her own brother and that's just depressing. So yea, I'm hoping any future installments will be all about magical adventures instead of rubbish romances.
Pretty good for a spin off of a spin off. Shame and Terric for the most part were entertaining, I wasn't into their whole emo magical connection or their angsty life/death magic issues though, it was repetitive and boring. Jolie was a nice addition to the gang, although I'm not keen on the romance between her and Shame, he's already had the doomed romance crap with Della, he doesn't need more romance-centric stories. Not to mention how weird it would be for him to end up with Terric's sister when he has a one of kind deep connection with Terric, as well as them having a profound love for each other. Jolie would be second best to her own brother and that's just depressing. So yea, I'm hoping any future installments will be all about magical adventures instead of rubbish romances.
December 15, 2015
Back Lash is the first in a (potentially) new series by Devon Monk. She says, "Think of it as a spin-off of my spin-off." The first series being Allie Beckstrom, the spin-off Broken Magic and Shame & Terric spun out from that.
In addition, fans of these series get to catch up with their favorite characters, including Davy and Sunny, Detective Stotts and meet Terric's sister, Jolie.
I'm guessing the reason behind the spin-off² is that she'd felt Broken Magic concluded with Stone Cold, yet found there was still some Shame and Terric stories to be told. Back Lash was also her "... first foray into publishing some of my work [herself]". As a fan of all these series and their characters, I'm happy to take whatever she's willing to give me. Spin away!
From Nov Newsletter: "If you enjoy BACK LASH, and it sells well enough, I'll write a second, longer Shame and Terric novel to be published along with BACK LASH in both ebook and print next year." I'm hoping the book does well (go buy it!) so there'll be more to come.
Magic wasn't a blessing with drawbacks, it was a curse with upsides.Back Lash picks up about a year after the events of Stone Cold . The story told revolves around the discovery of bodies - people obviously killed by magic, which shouldn't be possible.
In addition, fans of these series get to catch up with their favorite characters, including Davy and Sunny, Detective Stotts and meet Terric's sister, Jolie.
I'm guessing the reason behind the spin-off² is that she'd felt Broken Magic concluded with Stone Cold, yet found there was still some Shame and Terric stories to be told. Back Lash was also her "... first foray into publishing some of my work [herself]". As a fan of all these series and their characters, I'm happy to take whatever she's willing to give me. Spin away!
From Nov Newsletter: "If you enjoy BACK LASH, and it sells well enough, I'll write a second, longer Shame and Terric novel to be published along with BACK LASH in both ebook and print next year." I'm hoping the book does well (go buy it!) so there'll be more to come.
May 18, 2025
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Shamus and Terric have had a year since the events of the last book and have worked out a comfortable rhythm of sorts on how to use their magic and keep it from using them in Back Lash, the third book of the Broken Magic series. But where there is a will, there is a way and even though most of magic was locked behind doors someone has found a new way to tap into it.
Shame and Terric with the help of a few of their friends are looking for who is killing with magical means. Terric just assumed it was Shame and with Dash's help, tries to have an intervention with him. Shame just assumed it was Terric and was going to never talk about it and get those icky feelings all over him. When it is discovered that it is neither of the,m they realize they have a problem on their hands and a new player in the game. Terric's little sister also needs some help as she has gotten on the wrong side of the Russian mob and may have stolen a lot of their money and Robin Hood style and given it to charity.
What follows is a fast adventure of discovery and danger as our reluctant heroes face the mob and the mercenaries who can some how tap into a back door of magic. Once the fun starts, it doesn't stop until a lot of people are beat up or dead. There is a little time in the story for Shame and Terric to solidify the boundaries of their duo-ship and for Terric and Dash to work out their relationship as well. It isn't easy to be in love with someone who literally shares part of his soul with another person. Dash is such a likeable character that I'm rooting for him and Terric all the way.
I enjoyed the story and how Devon Monk was able to twist the way magic was used this time. It showed some real imagination and ingenuity to work out the method and the "wands" were a nice touch. Again though your enjoyment of the series will hinge on if you like our broody, grim reaper with a hangover protagonist as he is the sole PoV for the story. I have enjoyed him overall and so for me these are a lot of fun.
I liked the dynamic Jolie added to our mostly male cast. She is a wiz when it comes to computers and hacking and could bring a lot to their team if the boys let her play with them. While it is teased that she might be a potential love interest for Shame and there was a little flirting, I don't see that going anywhere due to the relationship between Shamus and Terric. They sometimes tap into each other's feelings and I think that is just one complication too many between the duo. Still I liked her and think she rounds out the cast nicely.
If you have enjoyed the series so far, this is on par with the other books, just a little lighter than the last. This is also Devon Monk's first self published book so that in itself is a big accomplishment.
Narration:
Performance: ★★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★★★
Diction: ★★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★★
Sound Effects: None
Paul Bellantoni, does a fantastic job and continues on with the series. I again completely loved his performance of this book. He embodied our bad boy in such a fun and charismatic way that the dialog just popped. I also liked all of the various voices he brought for the supporting characters, Cody specifically has a great voice. His pacing for the jokes and sarcastic quibbles made me laugh but he also brought depth of feeling to the Shamus' voice. Just a stellar performance and I look forward to hearing his voice for the rest of the series. I would say his narration actually added to my enjoyment of the book and my overall rating, again.
LIsten to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Shamus and Terric have had a year since the events of the last book and have worked out a comfortable rhythm of sorts on how to use their magic and keep it from using them in Back Lash, the third book of the Broken Magic series. But where there is a will, there is a way and even though most of magic was locked behind doors someone has found a new way to tap into it.
Shame and Terric with the help of a few of their friends are looking for who is killing with magical means. Terric just assumed it was Shame and with Dash's help, tries to have an intervention with him. Shame just assumed it was Terric and was going to never talk about it and get those icky feelings all over him. When it is discovered that it is neither of the,m they realize they have a problem on their hands and a new player in the game. Terric's little sister also needs some help as she has gotten on the wrong side of the Russian mob and may have stolen a lot of their money and Robin Hood style and given it to charity.
What follows is a fast adventure of discovery and danger as our reluctant heroes face the mob and the mercenaries who can some how tap into a back door of magic. Once the fun starts, it doesn't stop until a lot of people are beat up or dead. There is a little time in the story for Shame and Terric to solidify the boundaries of their duo-ship and for Terric and Dash to work out their relationship as well. It isn't easy to be in love with someone who literally shares part of his soul with another person. Dash is such a likeable character that I'm rooting for him and Terric all the way.
I enjoyed the story and how Devon Monk was able to twist the way magic was used this time. It showed some real imagination and ingenuity to work out the method and the "wands" were a nice touch. Again though your enjoyment of the series will hinge on if you like our broody, grim reaper with a hangover protagonist as he is the sole PoV for the story. I have enjoyed him overall and so for me these are a lot of fun.
I liked the dynamic Jolie added to our mostly male cast. She is a wiz when it comes to computers and hacking and could bring a lot to their team if the boys let her play with them. While it is teased that she might be a potential love interest for Shame and there was a little flirting, I don't see that going anywhere due to the relationship between Shamus and Terric. They sometimes tap into each other's feelings and I think that is just one complication too many between the duo. Still I liked her and think she rounds out the cast nicely.
If you have enjoyed the series so far, this is on par with the other books, just a little lighter than the last. This is also Devon Monk's first self published book so that in itself is a big accomplishment.
Magic wasn't a blessing with drawbacks, it was a curse with upsides
Narration:
Performance: ★★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★★★
Diction: ★★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★★
Sound Effects: None
Paul Bellantoni, does a fantastic job and continues on with the series. I again completely loved his performance of this book. He embodied our bad boy in such a fun and charismatic way that the dialog just popped. I also liked all of the various voices he brought for the supporting characters, Cody specifically has a great voice. His pacing for the jokes and sarcastic quibbles made me laugh but he also brought depth of feeling to the Shamus' voice. Just a stellar performance and I look forward to hearing his voice for the rest of the series. I would say his narration actually added to my enjoyment of the book and my overall rating, again.
LIsten to a clip: HERE
November 15, 2015
I LOVED the Allie Beckstrom series as well as the spin-off featuring Shame and Terric, Soul Complements of Death and Life magic. I thought the story was finished with Stone Cold ... so I was pleasantly surprised when I read the news that Devon Monk releasing a new Shame and Terric novel independently.
BACK LASH is still written solely from Shame's perspective. We found out that he has shared his house living together with Terric and Terric's boyfriend, Dash. Shame and Terric are the only people who can still has and use magic after both of them (with the help of Cody) has put an end to access of magic. Shame is still feeding his Death magic by killing people from Victor's list while Terric does his by volunteering down at the cancer ward and hospitals. But then they found dead bodies with sign of murder by magic. And not only that, Terric's younger sister Jolie came to Portland for protection, after she hacks Russian mob's account and steal a LOT of their money to be given to charities.
I highly enjoyed this new adventure of Shame and Terric. It was really intriguing how people could still find a back door to channeling and use magic, which resulted on those murders. I liked the twist that Monk given, because there were actually two parties involved with the victims that were killed and how they were killed. I enjoyed the process of Shame and Terric trying to find out who they were.
I also liked the addition of Jolie. She is smart and gutsy. She is a Conley after all. It is darn time that Shame meets a girl that could deal with him and his 'darkness'. Plus she's Terric's sister ... it will be delicious to think about. It will annoy the hell out of Terric, but at the same time Shame can't purposely mess around her either, not that Jolie can't take care of herself, of course.
Anyway, shall this series continue, I would've really liked it if Jolie continues to be part of the gang. Someone needs to be there for Shame like Dash does with Terric. On the latter note, I was happy that Terric and Dash are pretty solid. They have their fight early on but in the end everything is good with them.
There's a sneak peak of Monk's next book as a bonus. Devon Monk is one of my favorite urban fantasy authors and considering that she BLOWS me away with her House Immortal series, I cannot wait for this new series to hit the shelf as well.
BACK LASH is still written solely from Shame's perspective. We found out that he has shared his house living together with Terric and Terric's boyfriend, Dash. Shame and Terric are the only people who can still has and use magic after both of them (with the help of Cody) has put an end to access of magic. Shame is still feeding his Death magic by killing people from Victor's list while Terric does his by volunteering down at the cancer ward and hospitals. But then they found dead bodies with sign of murder by magic. And not only that, Terric's younger sister Jolie came to Portland for protection, after she hacks Russian mob's account and steal a LOT of their money to be given to charities.
I highly enjoyed this new adventure of Shame and Terric. It was really intriguing how people could still find a back door to channeling and use magic, which resulted on those murders. I liked the twist that Monk given, because there were actually two parties involved with the victims that were killed and how they were killed. I enjoyed the process of Shame and Terric trying to find out who they were.
I also liked the addition of Jolie. She is smart and gutsy. She is a Conley after all. It is darn time that Shame meets a girl that could deal with him and his 'darkness'. Plus she's Terric's sister ... it will be delicious to think about. It will annoy the hell out of Terric, but at the same time Shame can't purposely mess around her either, not that Jolie can't take care of herself, of course.
Anyway, shall this series continue, I would've really liked it if Jolie continues to be part of the gang. Someone needs to be there for Shame like Dash does with Terric. On the latter note, I was happy that Terric and Dash are pretty solid. They have their fight early on but in the end everything is good with them.
There's a sneak peak of Monk's next book as a bonus. Devon Monk is one of my favorite urban fantasy authors and considering that she BLOWS me away with her House Immortal series, I cannot wait for this new series to hit the shelf as well.
November 30, 2015
Our wonderful narrator Shamus (Shame for short) Flynn keeps up his wry commentary on the world around him. He finds he can't seem to get rid of his flatmates Dash and Terric. In fact it feels like they have taken over his house. The thing is, Shame loves having them around. They're also handy to have around in case of emergencies. When Shame isn't winding people up, he seems to be getting shot. Luckily for us Life and Death magic seem to compliment each other. But how long can it be until your luck runs out? How many bullets does it take until dead really means you are dead?
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February 5, 2024
4 Stars:)
November 20, 2015
It had everything I like about the characters, so that was good. You get nervous when you really like characters how they'll be several books (eleven) down the line. I like how she's allowing them to be consistent but also allowing for a bit of growth, especially tricky with a guy as stubborn and self-destructive as Shame. I also like the new (or old?) ideas she introducing to advance the concepts shaping this world and allow for a new story arc, keeping things interesting and yet again, still consistent. Smart lady. It was just shorter than I expected.
January 29, 2018
It's Terric and Shame, need I say more?
Ok for those who need a more serious review, here it is (I try not to write spoilers if possible):
Life and death magic, sarcasm, Russian mob, family showing up out of the blue, old friends, guns, magic wands = Trouble. Shame and Terric are the only magic user's left in the world, or so they thought. Navigating through life with magical complications while saving Terric's sister, Jolie, from the mess she got herself into proves to be challenging.
This can be a stand alone book, however, I recommend reading the first two books of Shame and Terric's (Hell Bent & Stone Cold). Better yet, I'd recommend reading the Allie Beckstrom series and then moving to Shame and Terric, who are a branch off the original series. Either way, you SHOULD read this book. If you are fans of Ilona Andrews, Patricia Briggs, or anything magic, you will love Shame and Terric!
My only complaint is I want more books in the Shame and Terric world! (I'm going through withdrawal)
Ok for those who need a more serious review, here it is (I try not to write spoilers if possible):
Life and death magic, sarcasm, Russian mob, family showing up out of the blue, old friends, guns, magic wands = Trouble. Shame and Terric are the only magic user's left in the world, or so they thought. Navigating through life with magical complications while saving Terric's sister, Jolie, from the mess she got herself into proves to be challenging.
This can be a stand alone book, however, I recommend reading the first two books of Shame and Terric's (Hell Bent & Stone Cold). Better yet, I'd recommend reading the Allie Beckstrom series and then moving to Shame and Terric, who are a branch off the original series. Either way, you SHOULD read this book. If you are fans of Ilona Andrews, Patricia Briggs, or anything magic, you will love Shame and Terric!
My only complaint is I want more books in the Shame and Terric world! (I'm going through withdrawal)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2025
The Beckham books and the broken magic books are all really good
I really love the Allie Beckham series and the broken magic series many of the books I gave 5 stars. This one did not quite meet the 5 star mark it was not as intense. I was not sucked in emotionally it did not make me cry it just made me laugh so it was still really good but lacked the intensity of some you other books. If you like urban fantasy Please read these books I'm sure you will enjoy them as much as I have.
I really love the Allie Beckham series and the broken magic series many of the books I gave 5 stars. This one did not quite meet the 5 star mark it was not as intense. I was not sucked in emotionally it did not make me cry it just made me laugh so it was still really good but lacked the intensity of some you other books. If you like urban fantasy Please read these books I'm sure you will enjoy them as much as I have.
August 21, 2023
You had me at Steam punk
then at the Beckstrom series then at Ordinary, and Souls of the Road! Now the revival of Shame and Terric with Hounds & other family! And more to arrive 😃 so I will not run out of favorite Monk worlds, words, characters, & blogs! Book 4 is my next destination! You are amazing!
then at the Beckstrom series then at Ordinary, and Souls of the Road! Now the revival of Shame and Terric with Hounds & other family! And more to arrive 😃 so I will not run out of favorite Monk worlds, words, characters, & blogs! Book 4 is my next destination! You are amazing!
August 11, 2023
Shame is my guy!
This was soo good! What to do about magic? Let Shame and Terric handle it! I loved the way Shamus has evolved! That might be a shirt of spoiler, but you still have to read it and it is a glorious read!
This was soo good! What to do about magic? Let Shame and Terric handle it! I loved the way Shamus has evolved! That might be a shirt of spoiler, but you still have to read it and it is a glorious read!
January 20, 2019
Good read. Not my favorite of this author but I do love the character's so worth reading.
January 7, 2023
I don’t know what it is but there’s something about Shame and Terric that does it for me lol
August 30, 2023
Read it, loved it, want more!
February 10, 2025
a little slower and new characters
I like Dash. He brings calm to Terri’s and Shame. Terric’s sister is nice also. Looking forward to the next book.
I like Dash. He brings calm to Terri’s and Shame. Terric’s sister is nice also. Looking forward to the next book.
December 16, 2016
An awesome follow up to Allie Beckstrom series.
November 17, 2015
4.5 stars
I loved this because I love Shame and Terric. I'm still trying to organize my thoughts around the feelings. I read a bit then saved it for a few days but still read the rest all in one sitting. I don't want it to end!
Review at the Book Nympho: http://thebooknympho.com/2015/11/back...
I loved the feel of this because I love Shame and Terric. In fact, I read 25% and then struggled to pick it up again because I didn’t want it to be finished. Back Lash felt so fast, so short. I looked now and it is 146 pages rather than around 300, so it is a shorter book.
I just enjoy their foibles and idiosyncrasies. I laughed and giggled at them and how true to themselves they are. There’s just something about them. This was totally a Shame and Terric book, which included Dash, and Terric’s sister, Jolie. Other favorites like Cody, Zayvion and Allie were only barely mentioned. No characters from other series had dialog or an actual part in this story. I’m also a HUGE fan of Cody and Stone, so I hope they will show up in the future.
The story is reasonable and fits the new landscape of their world, although the coincidences are a bit much. It feels a bit indulgent. I am not sure it would be as enjoyable as a stand-alone without the cumulative relationship with these characters. But I don’t FREAKING care. I’m waaaaaaay emotionally attached.
It’s a fantastic setup of our guys up for future adventures. Goodreads has it as Shame and Terric #1. I was thinking of it more as #3 after Hell Bent and Stone Cold. So if it is #1 in the Shame and Terric series, that means there will be more. Right? I can drool over Shame and laugh at their banter all day and night. *winks*
giggle worthy quote:
“Terric?” I said. “ A word?” I walked out of the kitchen. “What happened to ten minutes ago? Where we decided there was no way we were going to let her live in this very dangerous house?”
“Where else is she supposed to go?” he angry-whispered. “Who else but you and I can keep her safe?”
“Keep her safe while we deal with someone killing with magic?” I asked. “If that goes to hell and we don’t find out who’s doing that, the Russian mob’s going to look like fuzzy duckies compared to the fight we’re headed into.”
“I know.”
“Someone is killing people with magic,” I reminded him, as he had reminded me just a few minutes ago.”Killing.”
He inhaled, exhaled, his worry and pain churning between us. “What do you want me to do, Shame? Where can we send her so she’ll be safe?”
I thought about the basement storage under Jak’s shop and knew even that wouldn’t keep her away from the mob for long. There wasn’t any place I could think of where she’d be safe.
“Fuck.”
“Exactly,” he said.
I loved this because I love Shame and Terric. I'm still trying to organize my thoughts around the feelings. I read a bit then saved it for a few days but still read the rest all in one sitting. I don't want it to end!
Review at the Book Nympho: http://thebooknympho.com/2015/11/back...
I loved the feel of this because I love Shame and Terric. In fact, I read 25% and then struggled to pick it up again because I didn’t want it to be finished. Back Lash felt so fast, so short. I looked now and it is 146 pages rather than around 300, so it is a shorter book.
I just enjoy their foibles and idiosyncrasies. I laughed and giggled at them and how true to themselves they are. There’s just something about them. This was totally a Shame and Terric book, which included Dash, and Terric’s sister, Jolie. Other favorites like Cody, Zayvion and Allie were only barely mentioned. No characters from other series had dialog or an actual part in this story. I’m also a HUGE fan of Cody and Stone, so I hope they will show up in the future.
The story is reasonable and fits the new landscape of their world, although the coincidences are a bit much. It feels a bit indulgent. I am not sure it would be as enjoyable as a stand-alone without the cumulative relationship with these characters. But I don’t FREAKING care. I’m waaaaaaay emotionally attached.
It’s a fantastic setup of our guys up for future adventures. Goodreads has it as Shame and Terric #1. I was thinking of it more as #3 after Hell Bent and Stone Cold. So if it is #1 in the Shame and Terric series, that means there will be more. Right? I can drool over Shame and laugh at their banter all day and night. *winks*
giggle worthy quote:
“Terric?” I said. “ A word?” I walked out of the kitchen. “What happened to ten minutes ago? Where we decided there was no way we were going to let her live in this very dangerous house?”
“Where else is she supposed to go?” he angry-whispered. “Who else but you and I can keep her safe?”
“Keep her safe while we deal with someone killing with magic?” I asked. “If that goes to hell and we don’t find out who’s doing that, the Russian mob’s going to look like fuzzy duckies compared to the fight we’re headed into.”
“I know.”
“Someone is killing people with magic,” I reminded him, as he had reminded me just a few minutes ago.”Killing.”
He inhaled, exhaled, his worry and pain churning between us. “What do you want me to do, Shame? Where can we send her so she’ll be safe?”
I thought about the basement storage under Jak’s shop and knew even that wouldn’t keep her away from the mob for long. There wasn’t any place I could think of where she’d be safe.
“Fuck.”
“Exactly,” he said.
December 28, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
4.5 stars
Back Lash is the first book in the Shame and Terric series, but is actually a continuation of the Allie Beckstrom spin-off books Hell Bent and Stone Cold, and is essentially book 3. As there is a lot of world building and background information, I’d strongly recommend reading at least the other two books featuring Shame and Terric before Back Lash. Even better would be to read the Allie Beckstrom series.
Soul compliments Shame and Terric may have survived the battle for magic, but it isn’t without its drawbacks. A year later, it seems that Terric’s temporary stay in Shame’s spare room has turned into a long term one (along with Terric’s boyfriend, Dashiell Spade). Thanks to a loophole they built when locking magic away from the world, they are the only two people who can access magic, but that also means they still have to battle with Death magic’s and Life magic’s demands on them, constantly balancing the need to feed their magic without letting it suck away their humanity. And now they have the problem of discovering how someone is using the magic that should be locked down tight and inaccessible, to kill people. On top of all that, Terric’s younger sister, Jolie, turns up on their doorstop running from the Russian mafia.
I enjoyed the main plot with Shame, Terric and Dash trying to find the how and who of the “magically dead bodies” that started mysteriously turning up, but I did find the inclusion of Jolie and the Russian mafia a bit puzzling and felt that the plot would have been tighter without it. That aspect was just too vague. All the rest of it was a fast-paced ride. Jolie’s only purpose seemed to be her connection with the mob and as a possible future love interest for Shame, but she was too young and a little too inexperienced because of her age (despite her bravado) to feel like a good match for Shame. I adored Dash and he is absolutely perfect for Terric.
In the Allie Beckstrom series, Shame and Terric were my favourite secondary characters and I was really glad they got their own books. Those two books didn’t disappoint, and neither does Back Lash. All the things I loved most about them are still there. I love the banter between them, it provides some great humour without becoming too flippant. I also loved seeing them continue to repair their damaged friendship, the care they have for each other is obvious. I found the way they navigated not only the impact their respective magic has on them individually, but also the impact of being soul compliments completely fascinating. The author has created a wonderfully complex and believable world.
4.5 stars
Back Lash is the first book in the Shame and Terric series, but is actually a continuation of the Allie Beckstrom spin-off books Hell Bent and Stone Cold, and is essentially book 3. As there is a lot of world building and background information, I’d strongly recommend reading at least the other two books featuring Shame and Terric before Back Lash. Even better would be to read the Allie Beckstrom series.
Soul compliments Shame and Terric may have survived the battle for magic, but it isn’t without its drawbacks. A year later, it seems that Terric’s temporary stay in Shame’s spare room has turned into a long term one (along with Terric’s boyfriend, Dashiell Spade). Thanks to a loophole they built when locking magic away from the world, they are the only two people who can access magic, but that also means they still have to battle with Death magic’s and Life magic’s demands on them, constantly balancing the need to feed their magic without letting it suck away their humanity. And now they have the problem of discovering how someone is using the magic that should be locked down tight and inaccessible, to kill people. On top of all that, Terric’s younger sister, Jolie, turns up on their doorstop running from the Russian mafia.
I enjoyed the main plot with Shame, Terric and Dash trying to find the how and who of the “magically dead bodies” that started mysteriously turning up, but I did find the inclusion of Jolie and the Russian mafia a bit puzzling and felt that the plot would have been tighter without it. That aspect was just too vague. All the rest of it was a fast-paced ride. Jolie’s only purpose seemed to be her connection with the mob and as a possible future love interest for Shame, but she was too young and a little too inexperienced because of her age (despite her bravado) to feel like a good match for Shame. I adored Dash and he is absolutely perfect for Terric.
In the Allie Beckstrom series, Shame and Terric were my favourite secondary characters and I was really glad they got their own books. Those two books didn’t disappoint, and neither does Back Lash. All the things I loved most about them are still there. I love the banter between them, it provides some great humour without becoming too flippant. I also loved seeing them continue to repair their damaged friendship, the care they have for each other is obvious. I found the way they navigated not only the impact their respective magic has on them individually, but also the impact of being soul compliments completely fascinating. The author has created a wonderfully complex and believable world.
December 30, 2015
"Some people just don't die easy. I should know. I Shamus Flynn, had died several times, all of them the hard way."
Loved that opening. This story is the beginning of a new series, but really is just the continuation of Shame and Terrics story. We won't however see any of their old friends before they broke magic. (They all now have no magic of their own, and family to worry about, Shame doesn't want to drag them back into this life)
We are introduced to a new character, Jolie, Terrics sister, who is running from the Russian Mob. She soon gets caught up in the boys mess, even as hard as Terric tried to keep her out of it. Dash is officially Terrics boyfriend, nice to see him again, and he is great for Terric. Shame hasn't been able to let anyone close or into his life again yet, Jolie might help soften him, who knows.
People are turning up dead from magic, even with magic locked away. Shame and Terric have to find out how and fix the problem. As always from Devon Monk there are twists and turn through out the story, never giving you a chance to get bored. I am glad she choose to carry on a series with these boys. Look forward to what else lays in store for them in the future. If you are a fan of this world, you won't be disappointed.
Loved that opening. This story is the beginning of a new series, but really is just the continuation of Shame and Terrics story. We won't however see any of their old friends before they broke magic. (They all now have no magic of their own, and family to worry about, Shame doesn't want to drag them back into this life)
We are introduced to a new character, Jolie, Terrics sister, who is running from the Russian Mob. She soon gets caught up in the boys mess, even as hard as Terric tried to keep her out of it. Dash is officially Terrics boyfriend, nice to see him again, and he is great for Terric. Shame hasn't been able to let anyone close or into his life again yet, Jolie might help soften him, who knows.
People are turning up dead from magic, even with magic locked away. Shame and Terric have to find out how and fix the problem. As always from Devon Monk there are twists and turn through out the story, never giving you a chance to get bored. I am glad she choose to carry on a series with these boys. Look forward to what else lays in store for them in the future. If you are a fan of this world, you won't be disappointed.
May 30, 2016
I won this (and the 2 Broken Magic books) during an event on Facebook.
I have not read the Allie Beckstrom series and so when I struggled through the Broken Magic books I chocked it up to jumping into a series when there was such a solid history. I felt like each book I pushed through until the last 1/4 of the book then I loved it. I like Terric and Shame but feel that the secondary characters are more interesting.
Now, Back Lash... I kind of feel like reading the Broken Magic series helped me like this one better. I felt a stronger connection to Shame and was happy to see the change in him. Terric and Dash are fantastic. This book kept me interested and now wanting more. The characters really had me engaged and I am sad to be done with the book... I want more.
My one gripe about this is the repetition of specific information regarding magic. I found myself skimming things I feel like I have read over and over about the breaking of magic and who can use it blah blah blah. I know it is added in order to help catch the reader up in case they missed the other books, but by the end of the book I don't feel like I need it.
Over all a good book and I hope Ms. Monk plans to write a #2.
I have not read the Allie Beckstrom series and so when I struggled through the Broken Magic books I chocked it up to jumping into a series when there was such a solid history. I felt like each book I pushed through until the last 1/4 of the book then I loved it. I like Terric and Shame but feel that the secondary characters are more interesting.
Now, Back Lash... I kind of feel like reading the Broken Magic series helped me like this one better. I felt a stronger connection to Shame and was happy to see the change in him. Terric and Dash are fantastic. This book kept me interested and now wanting more. The characters really had me engaged and I am sad to be done with the book... I want more.
My one gripe about this is the repetition of specific information regarding magic. I found myself skimming things I feel like I have read over and over about the breaking of magic and who can use it blah blah blah. I know it is added in order to help catch the reader up in case they missed the other books, but by the end of the book I don't feel like I need it.
Over all a good book and I hope Ms. Monk plans to write a #2.
February 13, 2017
So glad I stumbled upon this extra gem. I love Shame and Terric. I really hope there are more to come.
June 29, 2016
I loved getting a chance to revisit old friends and the story was well written. I didn't like how old characters like Allie and Zay getting the occasional passing mention but no details. Either allow them to interact (even if it's just an occasional Sunday brunch) or move Shame and Terric to a new location that would explain the absence of the other characters. Just saying that Shame doesn't want to involve them because they've already paid a heavy price seems weak. It isn't as if Shame hasn't paid that price too.
This felt like a first book doing a lot of world building. I would've been ok with a more integrated landscape that mentioned old scenery.
Above critiques aside, I loved the book and do recommend that fans of the series read this book. I enjoyed the time I spent reading.
This felt like a first book doing a lot of world building. I would've been ok with a more integrated landscape that mentioned old scenery.
Above critiques aside, I loved the book and do recommend that fans of the series read this book. I enjoyed the time I spent reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2017
Shamus narrates his role, in constant pain holding Death magic, smokes cigs, (must kill or) regularly release energy to partner Terric, who heals, holds Life magic. Both guys had previous adventures with couples of varying genders so they won't ask helpers again, now two hold all magic in world behind wall. Nevertheless, others do use magic: wave wands, chant, kill, leaving glyphs on corpses.
Paragraph repeats over and over boringly until he finds killer(s). I won't read more, too much emphasis on reading prequels, and guys' pain.
Paragraph repeats over and over boringly until he finds killer(s). I won't read more, too much emphasis on reading prequels, and guys' pain.
June 1, 2016
Promising start to new series
I like this universe and this is a promising start to new series. More of a novella than full book though. Looking forward to more. The only reason I gave it a three instead of higher is the short length and a few issues with the conversion to an ebook. There is a reoccurring issue of Y with backwards quotes at line breaks supposed to end with a quote to end dialogue.
I like this universe and this is a promising start to new series. More of a novella than full book though. Looking forward to more. The only reason I gave it a three instead of higher is the short length and a few issues with the conversion to an ebook. There is a reoccurring issue of Y with backwards quotes at line breaks supposed to end with a quote to end dialogue.
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October 13, 2020Non-stop Life/Death magical action. Highly recommended read.
I've followed Allie Beckstrom from the beginning, anxiously awaiting each new release. I know who Shame and Terric are and what they've been through, and the day I found this book was the best day ever! I started reading Sunday night and took off work Monday to finish it. Devon Monk has never disappointed!
I've followed Allie Beckstrom from the beginning, anxiously awaiting each new release. I know who Shame and Terric are and what they've been through, and the day I found this book was the best day ever! I started reading Sunday night and took off work Monday to finish it. Devon Monk has never disappointed!
November 14, 2015
More? Why yes, please!
Love Shame and Terric. Hope there will be more of them soon--and with more book. This was too short. Also, a walk on appearance by Mr. Zayvion Jones would not go unappreciated either. Just saying...
Love Shame and Terric. Hope there will be more of them soon--and with more book. This was too short. Also, a walk on appearance by Mr. Zayvion Jones would not go unappreciated either. Just saying...
February 2, 2017
I have such a soft spot for Shame. I really like Terrick and Dash but Shame is the character I like the best. It was so nice to get back to this universe. I miss it and now that Allie and Z are gone it's nice to at least have Shame. Wish she'd do more of these, more often.
November 23, 2015
4.5 stars
December 8, 2015
I love Shame!
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