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Who Needs Enemies
Harriet Phillecky is a rare part elf, part siren and wanted by neither race. Not that she really cares. A successful news photographer turned paranormal investigator, she now has a 'family' of friends that includes ogres who constantly raid her refrigerator and take over her TV, and a dragon who drinks far too much for his own good.
But when the only elvan relative she has any contact with asks her to investigate the disappearance of a siren, she finds herself unable to refuse.
All too quickly the disappearance becomes murder, relatives come out of the woodwork, and a man she'd much rather forget steps back into her life. Harri wants nothing more than to run—especially when the evidence beats a path to the doors of those who'd long ago abandoned her. But when the life she's created for herself comes under threat, Harri has little choice but to hunt down a killer—before everything she holds dear is destroyed.
But when the only elvan relative she has any contact with asks her to investigate the disappearance of a siren, she finds herself unable to refuse.
All too quickly the disappearance becomes murder, relatives come out of the woodwork, and a man she'd much rather forget steps back into her life. Harri wants nothing more than to run—especially when the evidence beats a path to the doors of those who'd long ago abandoned her. But when the life she's created for herself comes under threat, Harri has little choice but to hunt down a killer—before everything she holds dear is destroyed.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2013
121 people are currently reading
1051 people want to read
About the author
Keri Arthur
100 books6,002 followersKeri Arthur, author of the New York Times bestselling Riley Jenson, Guardian series, has now written more than 25 books. She's received several nominations in the Best Contemporary Paranormal category of the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Awards, and recently won RT's Career Achievement Award for urban fantasy. She lives in Melbourne with her daughter and two crazy dogs
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
November 1, 2022
In the Goodreads five-star system (and couldn't we expand it to ten?) a two-star rating means "It was okay," and that pretty well describes how I felt through most of this book. That's mainly, I think, because I never really engaged with any of the characters as people. Not that there weren't plenty of good guys to root for and villains to root against, in a mystery thriller of sorts, but their ups and downs never really affected me beyond "oh, that's too bad" and "okay, that's good."
Originally, though, I ordered this book because of all the different supernatural species that were going to be in it--Keri Arthur seemed to be reaching out beyond vampires, werewolves, and angels. Most of the action in this story, set in a different parallel Australia from her other series, involves elves, sirens, ogres, trolls, a gargoyle's granddaughter, and dragon shifters (yes, huge flying fire-breathing dragons, one of whom crashes a helicopter killing four). And the main character Harri Phillecky's ex-lover, now returned to lead the investigation, is a dark fae, providing plenty of conflict with Harri, who's a private detective. There's even a wizard, but wizard magic is "temporary" in this world. And all these species and the ways they interact made enjoyable reading and bring my rating up to three stars.
Each of these species has its own personality characteristics and powers, and the characters we meet throughout the story are largely typical of their species--we don't go too deeply into individuals. The elves are a nasty bunch, into political power, and Harri's wealthy, powerful elf father Bramwell Phillecky barely acknowledges her existence despite his long relationship with her siren mother. Sirens have a song that lures men to sex, but Harri is a siren without a song.
The main murder victim (besides those helicopter casualties) is Mona, a siren who was entangled with many powerful people including the Phillecky family. Harri's elf uncle Lyle intended to marry her; he's the only Phillecky who will speak to Harri and he's the one who hires her to find Mona's killer. Harri has a partner Ceri, an ex-cop and the character I came closest to bonding with. She's if anything more human, stable and dependable, with a few of her grandfather's gargoyle characteristics but not too many.
Harri's place is usually full of ogres, drinking beer and watching football, which is a good thing when trolls attack. Here's the scoop on this bit of world-building:
Harri goes on and on about her ex-lover and seems stuck in an emotional rut. But it was fun to watch ogres, trolls, and dragons mix it up, even if I never really got to know anyone very well.
Originally, though, I ordered this book because of all the different supernatural species that were going to be in it--Keri Arthur seemed to be reaching out beyond vampires, werewolves, and angels. Most of the action in this story, set in a different parallel Australia from her other series, involves elves, sirens, ogres, trolls, a gargoyle's granddaughter, and dragon shifters (yes, huge flying fire-breathing dragons, one of whom crashes a helicopter killing four). And the main character Harri Phillecky's ex-lover, now returned to lead the investigation, is a dark fae, providing plenty of conflict with Harri, who's a private detective. There's even a wizard, but wizard magic is "temporary" in this world. And all these species and the ways they interact made enjoyable reading and bring my rating up to three stars.
Each of these species has its own personality characteristics and powers, and the characters we meet throughout the story are largely typical of their species--we don't go too deeply into individuals. The elves are a nasty bunch, into political power, and Harri's wealthy, powerful elf father Bramwell Phillecky barely acknowledges her existence despite his long relationship with her siren mother. Sirens have a song that lures men to sex, but Harri is a siren without a song.
The main murder victim (besides those helicopter casualties) is Mona, a siren who was entangled with many powerful people including the Phillecky family. Harri's elf uncle Lyle intended to marry her; he's the only Phillecky who will speak to Harri and he's the one who hires her to find Mona's killer. Harri has a partner Ceri, an ex-cop and the character I came closest to bonding with. She's if anything more human, stable and dependable, with a few of her grandfather's gargoyle characteristics but not too many.
Harri's place is usually full of ogres, drinking beer and watching football, which is a good thing when trolls attack. Here's the scoop on this bit of world-building:
While trolls tended to be bigger weight wise, ogres had it all over them when it came to punch per ounce. And while trolls were contract assassins, it wasn't in their nature to fight for the hell of it. Ogres considered fighting one of life's little necessities--much like beer, football, and pizza.So there's plenty of fights, lots of property destruction, and that's even before dragons get into it. The dragons (some are good guys and some are bad) seem to be Keri Arthur's favorite invention for this world:
...in the more rural communities. Dragons generally handled the back-burning and clearing undergrowth duties--important tasks given the volatile nature of the Australian bush--as well as being a major resource [when] it came to putting out fires.So was Keale the good-natured dragon drunk or deliberately drugged when he crashed into that helicopter? Was one of the passengers targeted for assassination (plus collateral damage)? Is everybody of any interest involved with Mona beyond the siren sex thing? The mystery developed a psychological element that just didn't ring true to me, and that kind of spoiled the effect of the solution, which was obvious from a long way out anyway.
A dragon's wing, while fragile looking, actually wasn't. They were formed by a tough membrane of skin, muscle, and other tissues that stretched from their small back legs to a dramatically lengthened fourth finger. It took a lot to break a wing...
Like all magic, a dragon's shape shifting had strict time limitations. No matter what form he took--dragon or human--he had to stay in that form for a minimum of twelve hours.
Harri goes on and on about her ex-lover and seems stuck in an emotional rut. But it was fun to watch ogres, trolls, and dragons mix it up, even if I never really got to know anyone very well.
September 16, 2013
This book is indie published and, unfortunately, it shows. The cover is bad enough, but the editing... ouch. That said, the story was at least interesting and the setting has enough depth to be engaging.
I'm a little conflicted about the main character. So much in UF depends on a strong viewpoint character and I don't so much mean physically (which is good because Harri isn't very tough). She's no wimp or anything, but physical confrontation really isn't her cuppa. But I'm torn because while she's brave and tenacious, her motivations seemed a touch opaque at times and once or twice I wondered why the heck she would bother with actions so muzzy-headed. Personally, when someone wants to see me dead, I'm just as happy that they self-destruct before completing the task.
My connection to the book wasn't helped by the little we discovered about her newly-arrived-on-the-scene ex, Kaij. Normally, I'd be pulling for some kind of reconcile there as he was hot as all get-out (and nobody else in the novel came close to possibly compatible with Harri). But what little we learn of the past really does put him beyond the pale, to me. I'm kind of glad that Arthur didn't try to sell him as a romantic possibility. The man who would do what he did in the past is not relationship material period, end of story. Not that there's no redemption possible, but he'd have to be proving how he was no longer that man (people can change in ten years, but that'd be something of a fundamental remake, really). All of which is random musing as he doesn't appear to have anything of the kind on his mind. Which is also part of the problem--the book had no viable relationship possibilities for Harri, making her a little one-dimensional (all work and no play).
Add that Harri is something of a doormat with her neighbors and I found it hard to warm to her. The book ends up as a low three stars--particularly with how really bad the editing was. Seriously, if that kind of thing bothers you at all give this book a miss. Still, the setting and story were solid enough that I might pick up a sequel when it comes out (but only if I hear good things about it).
I'm a little conflicted about the main character. So much in UF depends on a strong viewpoint character and I don't so much mean physically (which is good because Harri isn't very tough). She's no wimp or anything, but physical confrontation really isn't her cuppa. But I'm torn because while she's brave and tenacious, her motivations seemed a touch opaque at times and once or twice I wondered why the heck she would bother with actions so muzzy-headed. Personally, when someone wants to see me dead, I'm just as happy that they self-destruct before completing the task.
My connection to the book wasn't helped by the little we discovered about her newly-arrived-on-the-scene ex, Kaij. Normally, I'd be pulling for some kind of reconcile there as he was hot as all get-out (and nobody else in the novel came close to possibly compatible with Harri). But what little we learn of the past really does put him beyond the pale, to me. I'm kind of glad that Arthur didn't try to sell him as a romantic possibility. The man who would do what he did in the past is not relationship material period, end of story. Not that there's no redemption possible, but he'd have to be proving how he was no longer that man (people can change in ten years, but that'd be something of a fundamental remake, really). All of which is random musing as he doesn't appear to have anything of the kind on his mind. Which is also part of the problem--the book had no viable relationship possibilities for Harri, making her a little one-dimensional (all work and no play).
Add that Harri is something of a doormat with her neighbors and I found it hard to warm to her. The book ends up as a low three stars--particularly with how really bad the editing was. Seriously, if that kind of thing bothers you at all give this book a miss. Still, the setting and story were solid enough that I might pick up a sequel when it comes out (but only if I hear good things about it).
September 19, 2013
I was thrilled to find this book by Keri Arthur, I had no idea that it was out so when I seen it, being an avid fan, I dived onto Amazon to buy it immediately.
In this PI book, we meet all sorts of paranormal beings and Harriet, a PI, is part Elvin and Siren... she is asked to investigate the disappearance of a Siren and then turns up all sorts of information that points fingers in every direction...
A good book, if this is going to be a new series, a great starting point and I have to say I love Hari and the Ogres (her friends)... she is a great character and is part of a very promising series... I'm thrilled to have read yet another of Ms Arthur's books!
In this PI book, we meet all sorts of paranormal beings and Harriet, a PI, is part Elvin and Siren... she is asked to investigate the disappearance of a Siren and then turns up all sorts of information that points fingers in every direction...
A good book, if this is going to be a new series, a great starting point and I have to say I love Hari and the Ogres (her friends)... she is a great character and is part of a very promising series... I'm thrilled to have read yet another of Ms Arthur's books!
November 23, 2014
Re-read on 11/23/2014
Rating confirmed. I really liked this UF, even if the second time around her loyalty came too near to stupidity for my tastes. Not in itself, but simply because there was no explanation for it. I needed a reason to accept such blindness for the sake of the story, but it wasn't linked neither to race nor to personal history. So, a nit for me.
-----------------------------
I had almost missed this new book by Ms Arthur. The cover reminded me of an indie novel and I was a bit weary. Then I read her name and the blurb and I downloaded it immediately. (I wasn't completely wrong, this book is self-pub :D)
The beautifully titled Who Needs Enemies is the first novel of a new UF series centred on a half-breed PI. In this paranormal UF we meet elves, fae, trolls, dwarves, dragons, mages, sirens... you get the idea.
Each race has a few characters in the story and all together make for a very interesting bunch.
The hero is a half-elf, half-siren photographer who has just started her PI agency together with an ex-cop. They are struggling to survive (mostly because her friends keeps eating her food off :D), when the only relative she's speaking to (well, the only that more or less accepts her) gives them a case.
I'm talking of a hero (rather than an heroine) because there's not a hint of romance here. What we find is twisted families, loyal friends and a sad past. And well, of course, a mystery.
I liked Herri because she's the underdog, despised by both races and without much power in either world. She's fiercely loyal and gets beaten up pretty regularly (no kick-ass Valkyrie here). But she never stops looking for the truth.
As soon as I finished I went look for more. Unfortunately for me, this book has just been published and I'll have to wait to get the next.
Rating confirmed. I really liked this UF, even if the second time around her loyalty came too near to stupidity for my tastes. Not in itself, but simply because there was no explanation for it. I needed a reason to accept such blindness for the sake of the story, but it wasn't linked neither to race nor to personal history. So, a nit for me.
-----------------------------
I had almost missed this new book by Ms Arthur. The cover reminded me of an indie novel and I was a bit weary. Then I read her name and the blurb and I downloaded it immediately. (I wasn't completely wrong, this book is self-pub :D)
The beautifully titled Who Needs Enemies is the first novel of a new UF series centred on a half-breed PI. In this paranormal UF we meet elves, fae, trolls, dwarves, dragons, mages, sirens... you get the idea.
Each race has a few characters in the story and all together make for a very interesting bunch.
The hero is a half-elf, half-siren photographer who has just started her PI agency together with an ex-cop. They are struggling to survive (mostly because her friends keeps eating her food off :D), when the only relative she's speaking to (well, the only that more or less accepts her) gives them a case.
I'm talking of a hero (rather than an heroine) because there's not a hint of romance here. What we find is twisted families, loyal friends and a sad past. And well, of course, a mystery.
I liked Herri because she's the underdog, despised by both races and without much power in either world. She's fiercely loyal and gets beaten up pretty regularly (no kick-ass Valkyrie here). But she never stops looking for the truth.
As soon as I finished I went look for more. Unfortunately for me, this book has just been published and I'll have to wait to get the next.
April 2, 2018
4.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I’m always happy to read Keri Arthur’s novels, and when I saw she was re-releasing Who Needs Enemies, how surprised I was to see that I had not read it yet! So I rushed to order it and I did not wait long to start it! I must say that I really loved it!
Keri Arthur presents us a story a little different from what she had accustomed us and it is true that it is a really a good surprise! However, I am a little sad to know that there is no follow-up for the moment but I really hope that this will happen one day. We discover Harriet said Harry, a young woman half mermaid, half elf but excluded from both communities. Fortunately for her, she has loyal friends who are her family and who, even if they are very invasive, are always there for her. But now, her little quiet life is interrupted when her uncle asks her for help. Indeed, it seems that the mermaid he had taken for mistress has disappeared and he hopes that Harry can help him find her! But this story will be much more delicate and dangerous than expected when Mona is found dead. Now looking for the killer, our heroine will catch the eye of unsavory people, starting with her family. On top of that, her dragon friend is arrested for murder after colliding with a helicopter. The problem is that he does not remember anything! Yet Harry is determined to discover the truth and especially to prevent him from going to prison.
I loved the story and had a hard time letting it go before finishing it. The investigation is fascinating and I admit that I did not expect so many reversals of situations! It is also easy to connect to the characters even if there is still much more to discover, be it her brother Val, her ogre friends, Keale the dragon, Ceri her business partner or even Maggie. And of course, there is Kaij … her old lover is back in town and it’s very difficult to know what he wants now. Yet we feel perfectly well that something very complicated exists between them and even if we understand some bits of the story, I really liked to understand what exactly happened.
You probably understand that I had a great time with this novel and I really cross my fingers so for a sequel one day !!!!!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I’m always happy to read Keri Arthur’s novels, and when I saw she was re-releasing Who Needs Enemies, how surprised I was to see that I had not read it yet! So I rushed to order it and I did not wait long to start it! I must say that I really loved it!
Keri Arthur presents us a story a little different from what she had accustomed us and it is true that it is a really a good surprise! However, I am a little sad to know that there is no follow-up for the moment but I really hope that this will happen one day. We discover Harriet said Harry, a young woman half mermaid, half elf but excluded from both communities. Fortunately for her, she has loyal friends who are her family and who, even if they are very invasive, are always there for her. But now, her little quiet life is interrupted when her uncle asks her for help. Indeed, it seems that the mermaid he had taken for mistress has disappeared and he hopes that Harry can help him find her! But this story will be much more delicate and dangerous than expected when Mona is found dead. Now looking for the killer, our heroine will catch the eye of unsavory people, starting with her family. On top of that, her dragon friend is arrested for murder after colliding with a helicopter. The problem is that he does not remember anything! Yet Harry is determined to discover the truth and especially to prevent him from going to prison.
I loved the story and had a hard time letting it go before finishing it. The investigation is fascinating and I admit that I did not expect so many reversals of situations! It is also easy to connect to the characters even if there is still much more to discover, be it her brother Val, her ogre friends, Keale the dragon, Ceri her business partner or even Maggie. And of course, there is Kaij … her old lover is back in town and it’s very difficult to know what he wants now. Yet we feel perfectly well that something very complicated exists between them and even if we understand some bits of the story, I really liked to understand what exactly happened.
You probably understand that I had a great time with this novel and I really cross my fingers so for a sequel one day !!!!!
December 9, 2014
3.5
I am going to be fair and rate this as a series teaser. So far there is only one book, but after all this set-up it wouldn't be fair to us not to continue. So, as the first book in a series it is great.
There is almost zero info-dumping regarding this world. Every piece of information you get, whether it is about ogres, gnomes, dragons, sirens, elves, trolls, their habits, beliefs or anything else, is connected to whatever is going on at that moment in the book. So, that way you don't find out everything you want, but at least you are not bombarded with more information than you need.
Harri is half siren, half-elf and the elven part of the family doesn't like the fact. Well, she has one uncle who keeps in touch, but he is also an outcast. Harri and her friend have a PI agency and she accepts the investigate the disappearance of a siren. At the same time her dragon friend gets into serious trouble with the law (no spoilers), her former lover comes back after ten years and all of a sudden she is way over her head.
Harri's loyalty to her undeserving family made me crazy. She is not blind though. She acknowledges their faults, but still continues to help. Then again, she is better than them.
I loved her friends, neighbours, and her half brother Val. They are great characters and they have so much to offer in the future.
If I had to nitpick something those would be occasional editing/grammar errors (not many, just a few) and the fact that Harri and Kaij's relationship is a real teaser. I wish there was more of them. Since this is written in the first person, Harri is the only source of what happened ten years ago. It is a bit unreliable and biased.
I am going to be fair and rate this as a series teaser. So far there is only one book, but after all this set-up it wouldn't be fair to us not to continue. So, as the first book in a series it is great.
There is almost zero info-dumping regarding this world. Every piece of information you get, whether it is about ogres, gnomes, dragons, sirens, elves, trolls, their habits, beliefs or anything else, is connected to whatever is going on at that moment in the book. So, that way you don't find out everything you want, but at least you are not bombarded with more information than you need.
Harri is half siren, half-elf and the elven part of the family doesn't like the fact. Well, she has one uncle who keeps in touch, but he is also an outcast. Harri and her friend have a PI agency and she accepts the investigate the disappearance of a siren. At the same time her dragon friend gets into serious trouble with the law (no spoilers), her former lover comes back after ten years and all of a sudden she is way over her head.
Harri's loyalty to her undeserving family made me crazy. She is not blind though. She acknowledges their faults, but still continues to help. Then again, she is better than them.
I loved her friends, neighbours, and her half brother Val. They are great characters and they have so much to offer in the future.
If I had to nitpick something those would be occasional editing/grammar errors (not many, just a few) and the fact that Harri and Kaij's relationship is a real teaser. I wish there was more of them. Since this is written in the first person, Harri is the only source of what happened ten years ago. It is a bit unreliable and biased.
April 26, 2016
No romance here. And with this book being published in 2013, I seriously doubt there will be a sequel in which a romance could happen. Which is a shame, because it was a fun read and I was really looking forward to seeing if anything happened between Harri and Kaij. I thought there was more to this "series" when I snagged this book. Guess I need to do my research before starting a series from now on.
December 5, 2018
Harri is a part elf part siren, P.I. who isn't wanted by either side of her family really. She is known as an outcast, and remote, but she does have a group of friends. And when the one relative who actually wants something to do with her needs her help with a case, things start to get a little bit crazy for her. She has to find out who the murder is, and before they try anything else to someone else. But the suspects keep piling up, and they seem to be part of her "Family." With all of this going on, and troubles with her friends, not to mention an ex coming back after ten years of being away, life is getting pretty difficult for Harri.
This book started out a little slow for me, but it eventually got very good. I really enjoyed Harri, and all of her friends. I think she has major loyalty that was admirable, and she was also very brave, and smart. During the book, you could also feel a lot of the sadness that came from her when it came to her ex, and other matters. I really enjoyed the plot as well. After I got past the beginning, it got really good, and I very much enjoyed it. I look forward to more in this series.
This book started out a little slow for me, but it eventually got very good. I really enjoyed Harri, and all of her friends. I think she has major loyalty that was admirable, and she was also very brave, and smart. During the book, you could also feel a lot of the sadness that came from her when it came to her ex, and other matters. I really enjoyed the plot as well. After I got past the beginning, it got really good, and I very much enjoyed it. I look forward to more in this series.
November 23, 2025
Who Needs Enemies was a brilliant start to a new series by Keri Arthur.
Elves, sirens, dragons, oh my!
Harriet Phillecky (try saying that 10 times fast) is a ½ breed; half elf and half siren. Not accepted by her family she has a made a life and a family for herself.
When a blood relative comes a calling it’s never going to be good. When they come asking for favors you know its even worse…
Harri finds herself caught up in trying to clear her dragon friend’s drunken murderous flight and the disappearance of a siren that has her entire elf side of the family ready to kill her for…
When a devastating romantic interest from her past makes his presence known, Harri’s week just couldn’t get much worse…or so she would think.
I loved reading this new story by Arthur. I found myself sucked into this fabulous new world. Of course, Arthur provides a marvelous kick ass heroine in Harri; it’s what we’ve come to expect from this brilliant author and she doesn’t disappoint.
If you love a great urban fantasy with every paranormal being under the sun you should check out Who Needs Enemies. Flat out fun, sexy and packing a punch, Who Needs Enemies rocks the pages.
Elves, sirens, dragons, oh my!
Harriet Phillecky (try saying that 10 times fast) is a ½ breed; half elf and half siren. Not accepted by her family she has a made a life and a family for herself.
When a blood relative comes a calling it’s never going to be good. When they come asking for favors you know its even worse…
Harri finds herself caught up in trying to clear her dragon friend’s drunken murderous flight and the disappearance of a siren that has her entire elf side of the family ready to kill her for…
When a devastating romantic interest from her past makes his presence known, Harri’s week just couldn’t get much worse…or so she would think.
I loved reading this new story by Arthur. I found myself sucked into this fabulous new world. Of course, Arthur provides a marvelous kick ass heroine in Harri; it’s what we’ve come to expect from this brilliant author and she doesn’t disappoint.
If you love a great urban fantasy with every paranormal being under the sun you should check out Who Needs Enemies. Flat out fun, sexy and packing a punch, Who Needs Enemies rocks the pages.
November 14, 2019
4.75 stars
A mystery set in an alternative Australian urban setting where the paranormal exists side by side with humans. It's such an intriguing and fascinating world and I'm saddened that we will not get to see more of Harri and her friends. Her family relationships are a mess but despite that she does have a sense of loyalty to them. Most important is the family Harri has made for herself and it's a joy to read the banter on the page.
Disclaimer: While I personally know the author, this does not affect the star rating.
A mystery set in an alternative Australian urban setting where the paranormal exists side by side with humans. It's such an intriguing and fascinating world and I'm saddened that we will not get to see more of Harri and her friends. Her family relationships are a mess but despite that she does have a sense of loyalty to them. Most important is the family Harri has made for herself and it's a joy to read the banter on the page.
Disclaimer: While I personally know the author, this does not affect the star rating.
September 24, 2018
78 points/100 (4 stars/5)
I'm actually really sad this didn't get a sequel.
I'm actually really sad this didn't get a sequel.
March 29, 2018
3.5 stars
Note: I am reading the newer version with new cover, but I have no IDEA if there is any improvements regarding editing from the original version
On the plus side...
I dig this world so bad -- it's not too hard to grasp, we have common fantasy characters like elves, sirens, dragons, ogres, trolls, and witches (no shape-shifter or vampire in sight so far, although we have a gargoyle descendant which has sensitivity towards sunlight). I LOVED the loud-farting-beer-and-football-worshiper ogres. They're FUN to read.
I also enjoyed the murder mystery, in which a siren is killed, and our heroine stumbles into a lot of dirty secrets that involves her own bloodline.
On the not-so-good side...
The fact that there are things happening OFF PAGE, before the story starts. Most particularly Harri's past relationship with his ex, Kaij, that seems to involve (). I feel like I only know one side of the story, and because this book at the moment is a stand-alone, I don't get satisfying answer about what had happened.
So on that note, IF the author ever decides to write the sequel, I'll be checking it out for sure because the core of the universe is strong enough for me to keep my interest level high :)
Note: I am reading the newer version with new cover, but I have no IDEA if there is any improvements regarding editing from the original version
On the plus side...
I dig this world so bad -- it's not too hard to grasp, we have common fantasy characters like elves, sirens, dragons, ogres, trolls, and witches (no shape-shifter or vampire in sight so far, although we have a gargoyle descendant which has sensitivity towards sunlight). I LOVED the loud-farting-beer-and-football-worshiper ogres. They're FUN to read.
I also enjoyed the murder mystery, in which a siren is killed, and our heroine stumbles into a lot of dirty secrets that involves her own bloodline.
On the not-so-good side...
The fact that there are things happening OFF PAGE, before the story starts. Most particularly Harri's past relationship with his ex, Kaij, that seems to involve (). I feel like I only know one side of the story, and because this book at the moment is a stand-alone, I don't get satisfying answer about what had happened.
So on that note, IF the author ever decides to write the sequel, I'll be checking it out for sure because the core of the universe is strong enough for me to keep my interest level high :)
March 4, 2017
I really wanted to like this book, as I love the author's Riley Jensen series. But from page 1 I was bored. It didn't get better as I went along, the mystery should have pulled me in a bit, Harri's flamboyant brother should have made me want to keep reading, to see him blackmail her into more of a relationship, instead he too over the top. In the end this one just wasn't for me.
December 10, 2013
Actual rating - 3.5
Cover & Title - 4
Favourite quote -“Well, strap my ass to a flagpole and hoist it skyward' an all to familiar voice declared.”
Favourite character - Harri
I have mixed feeling about this book, this is mostly because it was not what I expected. It has no romance in it at all, I was not aware of this when I picked the book up so I was disappointed. It is shelved a few times as romance on goodreads - it is not. It is an UF mystery.
There are some typo's/etc but as I am not a grammar or spelling nazi (and I personally suck at both) so I did not care.
Harri is a cool character but it is the secondary characters that make the book so good. I liked them all, even the baddies! The world is good too, the world building is great and easy to understand/believe. The plot is interesting, held my attention & kept me guessing.
There are things mentioned that are not explained in this book - I guess the answers will be in the next book but I did find this rather annoying. Also Harri mentions her mum/what her mum would do/how she must do this as it is what her mum would want but! her mum is not in the book & is more than once referred to as a bad parent so.. I am confused as to why Harri puts so much effort into pleasing her, especially since she has no idea what Harri is doing.
Overall I enjoyed the book & will read the next in the series. I would recommend it to UF mystery readers but not people looking for something with romance in it.
Cover & Title - 4
Favourite quote -“Well, strap my ass to a flagpole and hoist it skyward' an all to familiar voice declared.”
Favourite character - Harri
I have mixed feeling about this book, this is mostly because it was not what I expected. It has no romance in it at all, I was not aware of this when I picked the book up so I was disappointed. It is shelved a few times as romance on goodreads - it is not. It is an UF mystery.
There are some typo's/etc but as I am not a grammar or spelling nazi (and I personally suck at both) so I did not care.
Harri is a cool character but it is the secondary characters that make the book so good. I liked them all, even the baddies! The world is good too, the world building is great and easy to understand/believe. The plot is interesting, held my attention & kept me guessing.
There are things mentioned that are not explained in this book - I guess the answers will be in the next book but I did find this rather annoying. Also Harri mentions her mum/what her mum would do/how she must do this as it is what her mum would want but! her mum is not in the book & is more than once referred to as a bad parent so.. I am confused as to why Harri puts so much effort into pleasing her, especially since she has no idea what Harri is doing.
Overall I enjoyed the book & will read the next in the series. I would recommend it to UF mystery readers but not people looking for something with romance in it.
May 5, 2017
Loved the book but now it seems she stopped writing in this series so I am bummed out.
August 11, 2016
A fun, new, self-published series by Keri Arthur. This one veers away from the typical vampires and shifters and features dragons, elves, trolls, ogres and sirens instead. I enjoyed it and look forward to additional books in the series.
September 7, 2015
I really liked Harri, Guy, Keale, Mo, Curly, Val, Darryl! Pretty much everyone!! Hopefully there's a book 2!
May 31, 2014
Very enjoyable read! Good cast of characters! Love those trolls!
October 26, 2019
This book was not perfect, but it sure was a whole lot of fun to read! High enjoyment score for sure. It was compulsively readable and I zipped through it in about a day. I really wish the author had chosen to continue this as a series, but it seems it's a standalone.
I picked this book up for Fantasy Bingo's Australian Author square (hard mode: indie or small press published). I did run into a little confusion on the publishing status of this book. It looks like it was initially released by IGLA (New York, USA), but in the 2nd and onward editions has been self-published by the author.
For those who are seeking the rare urban fantasy that's NOT also heavily a romance, this book is for you.
Our main protagonist is Harriet (please call her Harri) Phillecky, a half-siren half-elf who is pretty much outcast from both communities. In this Urban Fantasy world we're in a fantasy version of Australia (I think Melbourne, but I'm not absolutely sure). All kinds of magical creatures are co-existing in this world and know of each other - elves and sirens as already mentioned, gargoyles, dragons, ogres, trolls, dwarves, dark fae, witches and wizards, and probably more I'm forgetting. Some of the world-building was pretty charming - the dragon's have flying licenses and restricted air space.
There are a couple of humorous lines up near the front of the book that let me know I was probably going to enjoy the ride:
"It was a sad truth that a silver tongued woman wasn't half as respected as a loaded gun, although anyone who knew anything about sirens had a clear understanding of which was more dangerous."
"When all else failed, lie through your teeth. Or so one of my brothers was known to say, and it seemed to work well enough for him. He was a successful politician after all."
Harri was a newspaper reporter and photographer but she's recently tried to start her own PI firm with her ex-cop friend of gargoyle descent (has to work the nightshift, very sensitive to light!). The PI work is light so far and Harri's scraping by making ends meet with odd photography jobs (weddings, or selling shots to the newspaper).
Most of Harri's full-elven relatives won't have anything to do with her. Her father "allowed" his name to be put on the birth certificate but has never acknowledged her. She has an elven half-brother she's never met. The one member of the elven side of the family that does associate with her is her black sheep Uncle Lyle. Near the start of the book Uncle Lyle gets in contact with Harri and asks for a favor. Unfortunately, when Harri meets up with Lyle he's busy being beat up by some trolls (thugs for hire). After rescuing Lyle, he asks Harri to investigate the disappearance of a siren friend of his and things start to move even more quickly from there.
The mystery is fast moving. It has a couple of plot holes in it, and some questionable motivations on Harri's part (why does she care so much about what her mother - who she doesn't have a good relationship with - would want her to do?) but it was still a fun read. I really enjoyed Harri's "found family" of pizza-and-beer swilling ogres who are addicted to Australian Rules Football (and incidentally moderately helpful security for her house/office), her dragon friend with the sketchy drunk-flying record, her incredibly nosy but useful neighbor, and her actual family - a flamboyantly gay half-brother named Val who also happens to be a wizard.
I picked this book up for Fantasy Bingo's Australian Author square (hard mode: indie or small press published). I did run into a little confusion on the publishing status of this book. It looks like it was initially released by IGLA (New York, USA), but in the 2nd and onward editions has been self-published by the author.
For those who are seeking the rare urban fantasy that's NOT also heavily a romance, this book is for you.
Our main protagonist is Harriet (please call her Harri) Phillecky, a half-siren half-elf who is pretty much outcast from both communities. In this Urban Fantasy world we're in a fantasy version of Australia (I think Melbourne, but I'm not absolutely sure). All kinds of magical creatures are co-existing in this world and know of each other - elves and sirens as already mentioned, gargoyles, dragons, ogres, trolls, dwarves, dark fae, witches and wizards, and probably more I'm forgetting. Some of the world-building was pretty charming - the dragon's have flying licenses and restricted air space.
There are a couple of humorous lines up near the front of the book that let me know I was probably going to enjoy the ride:
"It was a sad truth that a silver tongued woman wasn't half as respected as a loaded gun, although anyone who knew anything about sirens had a clear understanding of which was more dangerous."
"When all else failed, lie through your teeth. Or so one of my brothers was known to say, and it seemed to work well enough for him. He was a successful politician after all."
Harri was a newspaper reporter and photographer but she's recently tried to start her own PI firm with her ex-cop friend of gargoyle descent (has to work the nightshift, very sensitive to light!). The PI work is light so far and Harri's scraping by making ends meet with odd photography jobs (weddings, or selling shots to the newspaper).
Most of Harri's full-elven relatives won't have anything to do with her. Her father "allowed" his name to be put on the birth certificate but has never acknowledged her. She has an elven half-brother she's never met. The one member of the elven side of the family that does associate with her is her black sheep Uncle Lyle. Near the start of the book Uncle Lyle gets in contact with Harri and asks for a favor. Unfortunately, when Harri meets up with Lyle he's busy being beat up by some trolls (thugs for hire). After rescuing Lyle, he asks Harri to investigate the disappearance of a siren friend of his and things start to move even more quickly from there.
The mystery is fast moving. It has a couple of plot holes in it, and some questionable motivations on Harri's part (why does she care so much about what her mother - who she doesn't have a good relationship with - would want her to do?) but it was still a fun read. I really enjoyed Harri's "found family" of pizza-and-beer swilling ogres who are addicted to Australian Rules Football (and incidentally moderately helpful security for her house/office), her dragon friend with the sketchy drunk-flying record, her incredibly nosy but useful neighbor, and her actual family - a flamboyantly gay half-brother named Val who also happens to be a wizard.
July 7, 2019
Great fun, but... a stand alone?
I really enjoyed this urban fantasy story. Harri is a fun character that I adored getting to know. Her family life is almost nonexistent, thanks to her status as a half-breed - yet that hasn’t stopped her from collecting a rather eclectic group of friends that loyally support her.
There is a past lover that finds his way back into the picture, and apparently it did not end well, yet we are teased with flashes of emotion from both of them. The tragedy that broke them up is hinted at, but we never get to explore it, and the way this story ended I was hoping to get more in the next book... only there is no next book because apparently this is a stand alone! So while this is a very engaging story, with great characters and an attention grabbing plot, be aware that there is no follow up.
4 stars
I really enjoyed this urban fantasy story. Harri is a fun character that I adored getting to know. Her family life is almost nonexistent, thanks to her status as a half-breed - yet that hasn’t stopped her from collecting a rather eclectic group of friends that loyally support her.
There is a past lover that finds his way back into the picture, and apparently it did not end well, yet we are teased with flashes of emotion from both of them. The tragedy that broke them up is hinted at, but we never get to explore it, and the way this story ended I was hoping to get more in the next book... only there is no next book because apparently this is a stand alone! So while this is a very engaging story, with great characters and an attention grabbing plot, be aware that there is no follow up.
4 stars
July 12, 2018
This book is listed on the author’s web page as a stand-alone, which was why I specifically read it (wanted a break from series books with no real ending). It actually felt more like the start of a series. If it were to be a series that would be fine (although I wouldn’t have bothered reading it at this point), but as a stand-alone it felt unfinished and I was left feeling a little disappointed. Many issues were unresolved and the past that was hinted at was never fully revealed. Wonder if it was intended to be a series and was then shelved? So whilst I normally love this author this book offered a lot of promise, but then, for me, didn’t deliver.
December 31, 2019
Susan Cook
Another great Keri Arthur book. This story is about a half elf-half siren P.I. And is hopefully the start of a new series. It started a bit slow in comparison to other stories she has written but then it developed into a very nitty gritty book with murders, blackmail, assault and burglary piled on. Magic and mayhem are peppered throughout along with colourful characters such as Harri, the main character, her part gargoyle business partner, her gay brother, ogres, dragon shifters, villainous trolls and Harri’s paternal relations who consider her beneath acknowledgement.
Another great Keri Arthur book. This story is about a half elf-half siren P.I. And is hopefully the start of a new series. It started a bit slow in comparison to other stories she has written but then it developed into a very nitty gritty book with murders, blackmail, assault and burglary piled on. Magic and mayhem are peppered throughout along with colourful characters such as Harri, the main character, her part gargoyle business partner, her gay brother, ogres, dragon shifters, villainous trolls and Harri’s paternal relations who consider her beneath acknowledgement.
July 28, 2020
Decent
A decent book that starts fairly slow, but the energy speeds up until a big ending that will surprise many a reader. A mystery/crime thriller set in a paranormal world yet holds to the classic crime saga with the paranormal being the fun, or funny, parts that make it interesting. Not quite as good as the RileyJensen series but a good start on a new series. Recommended.
A decent book that starts fairly slow, but the energy speeds up until a big ending that will surprise many a reader. A mystery/crime thriller set in a paranormal world yet holds to the classic crime saga with the paranormal being the fun, or funny, parts that make it interesting. Not quite as good as the RileyJensen series but a good start on a new series. Recommended.
June 30, 2017
Wow! Great story! Great characters!
I don't often write reviews, but this is one book I had to write about. It had everything I love in a story-great characters, convoluted plot, fantasy, a P.I. and snark.
I really can't wait for the next story about Harri to be written and published. Hurry Keri Arthur!
I don't often write reviews, but this is one book I had to write about. It had everything I love in a story-great characters, convoluted plot, fantasy, a P.I. and snark.
I really can't wait for the next story about Harri to be written and published. Hurry Keri Arthur!
November 27, 2017
This book was very good. I really enjoyed it. The one thing that detracted from reading this book was the format of the book. This does not affect my rating but the format of the book was terrible! There was a break (like a paragraph break) after every sentence or two. Took me forever to adjust to that. Didn't like that at all!
January 16, 2021
Great read
I read the whole book in one day. Its was very edge of the seat entertaining and kept you guessing til the end. Every time you think you know who done it boom plot twist I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good murder mystery, which obviously does not include children!
I read the whole book in one day. Its was very edge of the seat entertaining and kept you guessing til the end. Every time you think you know who done it boom plot twist I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good murder mystery, which obviously does not include children!
May 5, 2017
Goodreads seems to think this is the first book in a series but on the author's website, it's listed as a standalone. That's too bad. I would've liked to have seen this character grow. And I'd also have liked to have found out just what the heck Kaij's deal is.
November 15, 2018
It pains me to write this review because I love Keri Arthur’s books. The storyline was definitely action-packed, however I was a little disappointed with the ending. If there is a sequel to this book, I would consider reading it just to give it a chance.
January 12, 2019
The story was enjoyable enough but for me it lacked the element of romance or at least potential for romance that I like in my UF. Also while loyaltly is an admirable trait, Harri's seemed to border on stupidity which is not something I like to see in my heroine.
May 22, 2019
Awesome
This was brilliant. Great story and great characters. Harri and ceri both brilliant along with Val, maggie and all the other supernatuals with the exception of Kaig. Loved it lots if you haven't gathered!!!!!!!!
This was brilliant. Great story and great characters. Harri and ceri both brilliant along with Val, maggie and all the other supernatuals with the exception of Kaig. Loved it lots if you haven't gathered!!!!!!!!
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