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Earth Witches #1
Schattenpakt
Sie ist sexy, sie ist gefährlich – sie ist die letzte Hoffnung verlorener Seelen
Cassandra Archer hat sich darauf spezialisiert, Kinder in den Slums aufzuspüren und zu retten. Das ist auch der Grund, weshalb plötzlich Detective Flynn vor ihr steht. Seine dreizehnjährige Schwester ist verschwunden, und Cass ist seine letzte Hoffnung, sie zu finden. Allerdings besteht er darauf, sie bei der Suche zu begleiten. Das gefällt Cassandra einerseits gar nicht, denn in der Dunkelheit der Slums lauern weit schrecklichere Geschöpfe als menschliche Verbrecher. Andererseits ist Flynn unglaublich attraktiv...
Cassandra Archer hat sich darauf spezialisiert, Kinder in den Slums aufzuspüren und zu retten. Das ist auch der Grund, weshalb plötzlich Detective Flynn vor ihr steht. Seine dreizehnjährige Schwester ist verschwunden, und Cass ist seine letzte Hoffnung, sie zu finden. Allerdings besteht er darauf, sie bei der Suche zu begleiten. Das gefällt Cassandra einerseits gar nicht, denn in der Dunkelheit der Slums lauern weit schrecklichere Geschöpfe als menschliche Verbrecher. Andererseits ist Flynn unglaublich attraktiv...
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2011
14 people are currently reading
2604 people want to read
About the author
Lee Roland
18 books75 followersLee Roland writes dark, contemporary fantasies where strong, defiant women and men battle evil. Her characters are passionate in love, savage in hatred, and defy conventional mores as they pursue justice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
August 29, 2011
*DNF*
I've decided to give up. I can't get into this book and find myself bored by the thought of continuing. Plus, I accidentally spoiled myself as to who the heroine ends up with and can't muster any enthusiasm for the choice. He really irritated me.
No official review for this one, though. I didn't get far enough into it for that.
I've decided to give up. I can't get into this book and find myself bored by the thought of continuing. Plus, I accidentally spoiled myself as to who the heroine ends up with and can't muster any enthusiasm for the choice. He really irritated me.
No official review for this one, though. I didn't get far enough into it for that.
August 20, 2011
3.5 stars - From the cover, I was expecting Viper Moon to be an urban fantasy read, and the first person narrative by a kick-butty heroine along with cursed Barrows region of her southern city setting - which gives a whole new life to urban blight - certainly starts the story off in that camp. However, when all was said and done, Viper Moon ended up being one of those new hybrids that straddle the line between urban fantasy and paranormal romance. Viper Moon has more romance than your standard UF including what looks to be a complete wrap-up of the heroine's story at the end, but is more focused on story than rather than deep relationship development than your typical paranormal romance - I guess that makes it UFR:) So, the bottom line is that romance readers who like urban fantasy too are probably going to enjoy Viper Moon more than straight urban fantasy fans will.
For me, I enjoyed Viper Moon. I liked the heroine Cassandra Archer who is a servant to the Earth Mother, dedicated to finding lost children, especially those who fall prey to the darker elements of the supernaturally blighted area of the Barrows - a place where monsters, both human and 'not', reside - a place that the typical resident of Duviel Misssouri can't even perceive. I also really liked police detective Flynn who is forced to turn to Cass for help in finding his lost sister when his conventional investigation techniques fail to turn up any clues, and I was really intrigued by the angelic Michael, who may be something more than human, and who has both feet planted firmly in the Barrows. As a romance reader I found both of the men appealing, but I was rooting more for Flynn, because I thought that the inherent conflict between Flynn and Cass was more interesting - he's a black and white cop grounded in the 'real' world and Cass lives her life in shades of gray and is willing to venture into the black occasionally to get the job done, so it's more of a challenge to imagine how that's going to work long term.
I also liked pretty much all of the characters around Cass, her healer/seer mentor Abby, a crime boss who also needs help finding his lost son, and Cass' furred and scaled animal companions. On the whole this was a decent series starter and the world - and the characters whose story lines are still in play - have a lot of potential. Viper Moon didn't end up being quite what I expected, since there is apparently another of the Earth Mother's chosen ones in the lead in the next book and not Cass, but it was still a promising start to Roland's not-so-witchy Earth Witch series.
For me, I enjoyed Viper Moon. I liked the heroine Cassandra Archer who is a servant to the Earth Mother, dedicated to finding lost children, especially those who fall prey to the darker elements of the supernaturally blighted area of the Barrows - a place where monsters, both human and 'not', reside - a place that the typical resident of Duviel Misssouri can't even perceive. I also really liked police detective Flynn who is forced to turn to Cass for help in finding his lost sister when his conventional investigation techniques fail to turn up any clues, and I was really intrigued by the angelic Michael, who may be something more than human, and who has both feet planted firmly in the Barrows. As a romance reader I found both of the men appealing, but I was rooting more for Flynn, because I thought that the inherent conflict between Flynn and Cass was more interesting - he's a black and white cop grounded in the 'real' world and Cass lives her life in shades of gray and is willing to venture into the black occasionally to get the job done, so it's more of a challenge to imagine how that's going to work long term.
I also liked pretty much all of the characters around Cass, her healer/seer mentor Abby, a crime boss who also needs help finding his lost son, and Cass' furred and scaled animal companions. On the whole this was a decent series starter and the world - and the characters whose story lines are still in play - have a lot of potential. Viper Moon didn't end up being quite what I expected, since there is apparently another of the Earth Mother's chosen ones in the lead in the next book and not Cass, but it was still a promising start to Roland's not-so-witchy Earth Witch series.
November 26, 2011
When I first read the blurb and saw the cover of Viper Moon, I was stoked. A red-head, wearing leather (Rachel Morgan, anyone?), carrying a gun, with a snake over her shoulder? What's not to love?! Sign me up!
Viper Moon failed to live up to my expectations though and I have put it down in favor of other books several times since I started reading it.
Then, yesterday I thought to myself: I'll give it one last shot. So I picked it up and started reading it again. And, believe it or not, it got better. Good enough in fact, that I was reading along at a pretty good clip. I finished the last 3/4 of the book in one night.
As a friend told me before she loaned me the book, there is a lot of telling at the beginning of the story and not a whole lot of showing. I agree with her. It was bad enough that it was laughable at times.
I think, because of all that telling, I didn't really connect with Cassandra in any significant way; I was just continually annoyed at the writing and I didn't feel like Cass had a distinct voice or personality. She's a Huntress for the Earth Mother. She has 2 snakes and a cat. She's poor and has to scrape by to make her living. I should have liked her. I wanted to like her but, I didn't really like her.
I think some of my dislike also stemmed from the fact that that I would never have termed her a Huntress. Her job basically turns out to be rescuing runaway or kidnapped children, which while admirable, doesn't really make her a Hunter. She never stalks prey, not in the traditional sense, though I suppose she does track children. I don't know, Huntress just puts me in mind of something totally different than what this book portrayed.
Also, the series that this book debuts, is called "Earth Witches". Cass isn't a witch. She doesn't have traditional magical powers . It is very clear that the Earth Mother blessed her with some extra strength and healing ablities, but that's it.
Viper Moon is told in first person, I expected an Urban Fantasy. The premise of the novel basically sets Cassandra up to be the ring leader and main character of her own UF series where she gets to kick ass and take names for 3-5+ novels.
Except... that's not what happens.
We find out at the end that Cass is really only staring in book 1 of a Paranormal Romance series. Which as any PNR fan (or non-fan) knows follows a specific formula: The story is told in 3rd person POV. A paranormal backdrop world has a girl in it and she has problems, girl meets boy (boy 1). Boy 1 has problems too. Girl meets (or already knows) another boy (boy 2) that she lusts after. After some back and forth between girl and boy 1 & 2, girl and boy 1 fight/disagree but end up solving the problem. Girl and boy 1 realize they love each other sometime after they meet and finally admit it to themselves. Girl and boy 1 admit they love each other to each other, finally. Girl and boy 1 live HEA. PNR series book 2 takes place in the same world, but with different characters.
But, Viper Moon doesn't exactly follow that formula. It is Paranormal Romance. There won't be a book 2 starring Cass. But, since its told from first person, you never really get inside boy 1's head, or even really like him past the surface stage that the author set. Therefore, you kind of lack the reason why they love each other . Had we seen Cass from Boy 1's POV, we might have understood a bit more about his motivations and how Cass appeared from a POV not her own.
All in all, the mystery of why the kids were kidnapped kept me reading. The mystery of who Michael was kept me reading too. The writing quality picks up quite a bit in the middle.
The end of this book is a bit infuriating, fair warning. For those of you that want to know ahead of time here is my rant:
I think Viper Moon is a decent attempt at a debut novel/series. There are some flaws. I hope Lee Roland manages to iron those out in book 2.
On a related note: the excerpt included in the back of book 1, that introduces book 2, looked to be of far better quality than the beginning of book 1. Those few pages sucked me in enough that I was curious about the Main character, where she came from, and why she'd been sentenced to life in prison. I will be reading it.
Viper Moon failed to live up to my expectations though and I have put it down in favor of other books several times since I started reading it.
Then, yesterday I thought to myself: I'll give it one last shot. So I picked it up and started reading it again. And, believe it or not, it got better. Good enough in fact, that I was reading along at a pretty good clip. I finished the last 3/4 of the book in one night.
As a friend told me before she loaned me the book, there is a lot of telling at the beginning of the story and not a whole lot of showing. I agree with her. It was bad enough that it was laughable at times.
I think, because of all that telling, I didn't really connect with Cassandra in any significant way; I was just continually annoyed at the writing and I didn't feel like Cass had a distinct voice or personality. She's a Huntress for the Earth Mother. She has 2 snakes and a cat. She's poor and has to scrape by to make her living. I should have liked her. I wanted to like her but, I didn't really like her.
I think some of my dislike also stemmed from the fact that that I would never have termed her a Huntress. Her job basically turns out to be rescuing runaway or kidnapped children, which while admirable, doesn't really make her a Hunter. She never stalks prey, not in the traditional sense, though I suppose she does track children. I don't know, Huntress just puts me in mind of something totally different than what this book portrayed.
Also, the series that this book debuts, is called "Earth Witches". Cass isn't a witch. She doesn't have traditional magical powers . It is very clear that the Earth Mother blessed her with some extra strength and healing ablities, but that's it.
Viper Moon is told in first person, I expected an Urban Fantasy. The premise of the novel basically sets Cassandra up to be the ring leader and main character of her own UF series where she gets to kick ass and take names for 3-5+ novels.
Except... that's not what happens.
We find out at the end that Cass is really only staring in book 1 of a Paranormal Romance series. Which as any PNR fan (or non-fan) knows follows a specific formula: The story is told in 3rd person POV. A paranormal backdrop world has a girl in it and she has problems, girl meets boy (boy 1). Boy 1 has problems too. Girl meets (or already knows) another boy (boy 2) that she lusts after. After some back and forth between girl and boy 1 & 2, girl and boy 1 fight/disagree but end up solving the problem. Girl and boy 1 realize they love each other sometime after they meet and finally admit it to themselves. Girl and boy 1 admit they love each other to each other, finally. Girl and boy 1 live HEA. PNR series book 2 takes place in the same world, but with different characters.
But, Viper Moon doesn't exactly follow that formula. It is Paranormal Romance. There won't be a book 2 starring Cass. But, since its told from first person, you never really get inside boy 1's head, or even really like him past the surface stage that the author set. Therefore, you kind of lack the reason why they love each other . Had we seen Cass from Boy 1's POV, we might have understood a bit more about his motivations and how Cass appeared from a POV not her own.
All in all, the mystery of why the kids were kidnapped kept me reading. The mystery of who Michael was kept me reading too. The writing quality picks up quite a bit in the middle.
The end of this book is a bit infuriating, fair warning. For those of you that want to know ahead of time here is my rant:
I think Viper Moon is a decent attempt at a debut novel/series. There are some flaws. I hope Lee Roland manages to iron those out in book 2.
On a related note: the excerpt included in the back of book 1, that introduces book 2, looked to be of far better quality than the beginning of book 1. Those few pages sucked me in enough that I was curious about the Main character, where she came from, and why she'd been sentenced to life in prison. I will be reading it.
April 27, 2012
Cass Archer, has been called by the Earth Mother to be her Huntress. It doesn't pay anything and she still has to eat and pay rent. So she is perpetually on the breadline. She gave up her PI licence when she was harassed by a local top cop, but that doesn't stop her doing the odd job. Like finding lost and stolen children.
Meanwhile, evil is creeping ever closer to the town of Duivel, Missouri, it is contained in The Barrows, at the moment, along with the monsters that like to eat people.
Two special children have been taken, one the sister of a cop, Flynn, and the other the son of the local crime lord, Dacardi. Both are being held in The Barrows and are planned to be sacrificed on the night of the Dark Moon. Their sacrifice will enable the Darkness to win against the Earth Mother.
Only Cass, assisted by Abby, the High Priestess of the Earth Mother, Flynn, Dacardi, Michael also known as Archangel and Cass's animals, 2 snakes & a bad ass cat can save them.
I enjoyed it but was surprised at how long it took me to read it. Looking forward to
Meanwhile, evil is creeping ever closer to the town of Duivel, Missouri, it is contained in The Barrows, at the moment, along with the monsters that like to eat people.
Two special children have been taken, one the sister of a cop, Flynn, and the other the son of the local crime lord, Dacardi. Both are being held in The Barrows and are planned to be sacrificed on the night of the Dark Moon. Their sacrifice will enable the Darkness to win against the Earth Mother.
Only Cass, assisted by Abby, the High Priestess of the Earth Mother, Flynn, Dacardi, Michael also known as Archangel and Cass's animals, 2 snakes & a bad ass cat can save them.
I enjoyed it but was surprised at how long it took me to read it. Looking forward to
June 10, 2012
3.5 stars
A short recap of the story for my own sake:
First of all, I thought this would be an urban fantasy story with one main heroine character. But I checked the blurb for the sequel, Vengeance Moon, and it features a different couple. It's interesting since usually multiple couples series use 3rd person writing, while this one uses 1st person. I guess this is more of paranormal romance, since the story does emphasize on the romance, and Cassandra's attraction to Flynn and Michael.
If I categorize this as urban fantasy, I would be VERY disappointed since truthfully, Cass spends her time mostly getting kidnapped or getting her ass kicked and the men (Flynn, Michael, even Dacardi) seem to be helping her a lot more than she helps herself. If not, she is mooning over the handsome Michael and the steady Flynn. And how is she a Huntress again? Seems like her animals (two snakes, Nefertiti and Nirah, or her cat, Horus) are even more capable than her.
HOWEVER, after I finish and take time to think it over, it is more of paranormal romance, and in that sense, it is quite enjoyable. Yes, the men are handsome (so typical) and Flynn declares his love to Cass after only 4 days, but at least there is no real "love triangle". I think Michael and his ancestry is intriguing -- and he is the hero for the next book -- while Flynn sure keeps himself level-headed despite the weirdness of Cass's job, and the magic, and the fact that he needs to bend few rules by working with bad guys. Flynn doesn't do over the top jealousy, possessiveness, or extreme sarcasm. That's nice.
Most of the characters are likeable ... and Ms. Roland is still able to insert a twist in the end regarding Flynn . Yeah, I quite like it. I will check out the next book for sure.
So for other readers, this is NOT an urban fantasy! Keep that in mind.
A short recap of the story for my own sake:
First of all, I thought this would be an urban fantasy story with one main heroine character. But I checked the blurb for the sequel, Vengeance Moon, and it features a different couple. It's interesting since usually multiple couples series use 3rd person writing, while this one uses 1st person. I guess this is more of paranormal romance, since the story does emphasize on the romance, and Cassandra's attraction to Flynn and Michael.
If I categorize this as urban fantasy, I would be VERY disappointed since truthfully, Cass spends her time mostly getting kidnapped or getting her ass kicked and the men (Flynn, Michael, even Dacardi) seem to be helping her a lot more than she helps herself. If not, she is mooning over the handsome Michael and the steady Flynn. And how is she a Huntress again? Seems like her animals (two snakes, Nefertiti and Nirah, or her cat, Horus) are even more capable than her.
HOWEVER, after I finish and take time to think it over, it is more of paranormal romance, and in that sense, it is quite enjoyable. Yes, the men are handsome (so typical) and Flynn declares his love to Cass after only 4 days, but at least there is no real "love triangle". I think Michael and his ancestry is intriguing -- and he is the hero for the next book -- while Flynn sure keeps himself level-headed despite the weirdness of Cass's job, and the magic, and the fact that he needs to bend few rules by working with bad guys. Flynn doesn't do over the top jealousy, possessiveness, or extreme sarcasm. That's nice.
Most of the characters are likeable ... and Ms. Roland is still able to insert a twist in the end regarding Flynn . Yeah, I quite like it. I will check out the next book for sure.
So for other readers, this is NOT an urban fantasy! Keep that in mind.
July 20, 2011
More a 3,5
It says UF romance on the side and it fits. Sure it is a kick-ass urban fantasy but it does have a bit more romance than other books, only a bit though. And another thing that surprised me was that this was a stand alone novel. The book ends, with a HEA none the less. Of course that does not mean it is the end. Nope evil is still around but it seems that the next book will have a new heroine.
But this book is about Cassandra. When she was 18 the Earth Mother came to her and said she was her huntress and would rescue kids. That is now what she does. To her help she has an earth mother priestess, Abby who has saved her broken body more than once. She also has three pets, two snakes and a cat. Why are they important? Well, they can kick ass and take numbers too.
The Earth Mother is a "pagan" demi-god who cares for the Earth and her children. Because in this city it is needed. There is The Darkness that has engulfed a part of the city and reigns there. There are monsters in the sewers and bad humans on the streets. What is amazing about this world is that people forget about that part of the city. They think a bog starts there and even people living there pretends there are no monsters, but they still know. You can't even see the place on maps.
And Cass, do not even get me started about how kick-ass she is. She is violent and she will not hesitate pulling the trigger or cracking a rib on a bad guy. She does everything is takes to save kids. She felt raw and real. A total bad-ass. Oh and I loved her relationship with her pets, snakes scare me to death but her pets were just wonderful and friendly.
The romance then, well there is this cop named Flynn who needs her to rescue his sister who has gone to the Barrows. And things will heat up. And then there is Michael, yes, I know, but the mysterious bad/good guy is just so irresistible. He is yummy.
When the book ended I felt sad, I am not used to getting results so quickly and I really liked this heroine. But I am sure the next one will carry the torch and kick more ass in the Barrows.
Conclusion:
A good start to an urban fantasy series. It has action, it has romance and a new exciting world. I'd recommend it. Hard to put down too.
rating:
Good
It says UF romance on the side and it fits. Sure it is a kick-ass urban fantasy but it does have a bit more romance than other books, only a bit though. And another thing that surprised me was that this was a stand alone novel. The book ends, with a HEA none the less. Of course that does not mean it is the end. Nope evil is still around but it seems that the next book will have a new heroine.
But this book is about Cassandra. When she was 18 the Earth Mother came to her and said she was her huntress and would rescue kids. That is now what she does. To her help she has an earth mother priestess, Abby who has saved her broken body more than once. She also has three pets, two snakes and a cat. Why are they important? Well, they can kick ass and take numbers too.
The Earth Mother is a "pagan" demi-god who cares for the Earth and her children. Because in this city it is needed. There is The Darkness that has engulfed a part of the city and reigns there. There are monsters in the sewers and bad humans on the streets. What is amazing about this world is that people forget about that part of the city. They think a bog starts there and even people living there pretends there are no monsters, but they still know. You can't even see the place on maps.
And Cass, do not even get me started about how kick-ass she is. She is violent and she will not hesitate pulling the trigger or cracking a rib on a bad guy. She does everything is takes to save kids. She felt raw and real. A total bad-ass. Oh and I loved her relationship with her pets, snakes scare me to death but her pets were just wonderful and friendly.
The romance then, well there is this cop named Flynn who needs her to rescue his sister who has gone to the Barrows. And things will heat up. And then there is Michael, yes, I know, but the mysterious bad/good guy is just so irresistible. He is yummy.
When the book ended I felt sad, I am not used to getting results so quickly and I really liked this heroine. But I am sure the next one will carry the torch and kick more ass in the Barrows.
Conclusion:
A good start to an urban fantasy series. It has action, it has romance and a new exciting world. I'd recommend it. Hard to put down too.
rating:
Good
February 25, 2014
Bueno!! La verdad es que no había leído nada de esta mujer, y me ha sorprendido para bien. La historia muy bien llevada, la "zona muerta", Michael y su magnetismo, Flynn y su bondad y constancia y un mafioso llamado Dacardi que amaba a su hijo más que a su vida o su dinero. La Madre ha sido un poco cruel pero es lo que me esperaba de un ser omnipotente: no entienden lo que es vivir o sentir amor y dolor. Buena trama, buenos personajes y un final que te deja con ganas de saber qué sucedió después...
December 5, 2017
For the most part, I kind of liked this. I remembered having started to read this, took a break and forgot about it.
Then recently I've been reading more urban fantasy series and finally got around to reading where I left off.
This did have some good moments, especially when Cass and co team up in the second half. Otherwise this was okay. The romance felt a bit rushed. But I still found some enjoyment while reading.
An okay but has its moments type book. Might read more from this series.
Then recently I've been reading more urban fantasy series and finally got around to reading where I left off.
This did have some good moments, especially when Cass and co team up in the second half. Otherwise this was okay. The romance felt a bit rushed. But I still found some enjoyment while reading.
An okay but has its moments type book. Might read more from this series.
December 1, 2022
Surprisingly enjoyed this. I haven't read an urban fantasy in a very long, and I was sucked into this world pretty quickly and I enjoyed the main character along with her "found family"
August 18, 2011
When Cass turned 18 years old, she became a Huntress for Earth Mother. Her job for the last ten years has been to locate abducted children who are taken to the Burrows (a world of Darkness), a district of Duivel, Missouri. Along the way, Cass has made a few acquaintances, friends and enemies. She’s also been fighting demons and monsters that nightmares are made of. Cass has no supernatural powers except for phenomenal speed and strength that Earth Mother has given her. Her weapons of choice are a bronze sheath and gun with bronze bullets - bronze being what kills demons and monsters.
A few days after her latest rescue, Cass is visited by Detective Flynn who is trying to locate his 12 year-old sister, Selena, who’s been missing for three weeks. He and the police have been searching with no luck. Wherever he goes and whoever he meets while trying to find his sister, the response he’s given is to go see Cass as she’s the only one who can find her. She decides to help Flynn as she can’t stand the thought of any child suffering either by evil humans for their own selfish pleasures or by demons. The very same day, Cass is approached by Dacardi, the organized crime boss of Duivel. He recruits Cass because his 12 year-old son, Richard, has been missing for days and he’s run into the same hurdles as Flynn. Cass realizes that something strange and bigger, not of this world, is going on deep in the Burrows.
Overall this book was pretty good. I was expecting it to be the first in a continuing series involving the same characters throughout. However, when I got to the end (which I read twice to double-check), I realized that the author ended Cass’s story and the second book in the series will pick up with a whole new character, which I hope includes Michael as I found him to be my favourite.
I love Cass’s character as she will do anything, whether it’s killing a vile human or demon or beating the crap out of someone to get the answers she needs. She basically goes through hell to find the kids and looks it when she returns. My big issue is with respect to Cass and Flynn’s relationship. For a girl who is so focused on her work, on being alone and doesn’t want to be owned by anyone, in a matter of days she’s head-over-heels in love with Flynn and can’t see her life without him in it. Excuse me? What happened to her independence? Then there’s sexy, gorgeous Michael, the owner of Archangel in the Burrows, who is revered by all men and women. Since they met five years ago, Cass has been fighting her attraction to him all the while knowing he’s been in love with her. Even though Cass doesn’t know all there is to know about Michael, and who is better suited to her since they’re both aware of the supernatural world; I don’t understand why she falls for Flynn after just a couple of days in bed with him knowing it’s hard for him to comprehend who she is, what she does and how she does it - illegally of course. It felt very improbable and forced. I thought this book was supposed to be more urban fantasy; instead, it read more like a paranormal romance novel.
I do wish to mention that when I learned more about Flynn and saw how his relationship with Cass was progressing, I immediately thought of Gin and Detective Caine from Jennifer Estep’s “Elemental Assassin” series as they’re both very similar. I have to say I found this a bit odd, especially after reading other reviews and coming across those who thought the exact same thing.
I found Cass’s relationship with Earth Mother somewhat confusing. I didn’t think it made sense at the beginning nor did I think it was explained well with respect to how and why Cass became the Huntress. Anything to do with Earth Mother didn’t flow well; felt choppy and all over the place. For example, one time Earth Mother speaks to Cass through Abby; other times she just appears; another time Cass hears her in her head. Why the inconsistencies?
Regardless, I did enjoy the book and most of the characters. I especially liked Cass’s pets that are very lovable (in her world, not ours): Horus, her cat; Nirah and Nefertiti, her pet snakes.
A few days after her latest rescue, Cass is visited by Detective Flynn who is trying to locate his 12 year-old sister, Selena, who’s been missing for three weeks. He and the police have been searching with no luck. Wherever he goes and whoever he meets while trying to find his sister, the response he’s given is to go see Cass as she’s the only one who can find her. She decides to help Flynn as she can’t stand the thought of any child suffering either by evil humans for their own selfish pleasures or by demons. The very same day, Cass is approached by Dacardi, the organized crime boss of Duivel. He recruits Cass because his 12 year-old son, Richard, has been missing for days and he’s run into the same hurdles as Flynn. Cass realizes that something strange and bigger, not of this world, is going on deep in the Burrows.
Overall this book was pretty good. I was expecting it to be the first in a continuing series involving the same characters throughout. However, when I got to the end (which I read twice to double-check), I realized that the author ended Cass’s story and the second book in the series will pick up with a whole new character, which I hope includes Michael as I found him to be my favourite.
I love Cass’s character as she will do anything, whether it’s killing a vile human or demon or beating the crap out of someone to get the answers she needs. She basically goes through hell to find the kids and looks it when she returns. My big issue is with respect to Cass and Flynn’s relationship. For a girl who is so focused on her work, on being alone and doesn’t want to be owned by anyone, in a matter of days she’s head-over-heels in love with Flynn and can’t see her life without him in it. Excuse me? What happened to her independence? Then there’s sexy, gorgeous Michael, the owner of Archangel in the Burrows, who is revered by all men and women. Since they met five years ago, Cass has been fighting her attraction to him all the while knowing he’s been in love with her. Even though Cass doesn’t know all there is to know about Michael, and who is better suited to her since they’re both aware of the supernatural world; I don’t understand why she falls for Flynn after just a couple of days in bed with him knowing it’s hard for him to comprehend who she is, what she does and how she does it - illegally of course. It felt very improbable and forced. I thought this book was supposed to be more urban fantasy; instead, it read more like a paranormal romance novel.
I do wish to mention that when I learned more about Flynn and saw how his relationship with Cass was progressing, I immediately thought of Gin and Detective Caine from Jennifer Estep’s “Elemental Assassin” series as they’re both very similar. I have to say I found this a bit odd, especially after reading other reviews and coming across those who thought the exact same thing.
I found Cass’s relationship with Earth Mother somewhat confusing. I didn’t think it made sense at the beginning nor did I think it was explained well with respect to how and why Cass became the Huntress. Anything to do with Earth Mother didn’t flow well; felt choppy and all over the place. For example, one time Earth Mother speaks to Cass through Abby; other times she just appears; another time Cass hears her in her head. Why the inconsistencies?
Regardless, I did enjoy the book and most of the characters. I especially liked Cass’s pets that are very lovable (in her world, not ours): Horus, her cat; Nirah and Nefertiti, her pet snakes.
June 21, 2013
Viper Moon by Lee Roland
Novel of the Earth Witches Book 1
A-
“I don’t regret the decision to become the Huntress; the search fits my nature and feels right. But I sure wish I had read the small print on the contract before I signed on.”
Cassandra Archer is not your stereotypical witch. She is the the Earth Mother’s Huntress and has served her for years by helping to find missing children that have been kidnapped. The Earth Mother contains the Darkness, an ancient evil, in the Burrows a neighborhood that is full of all kinds of evil both human and monster. Cass has spent years in the Burrows making friends and enemies and fighting monsters that are mostly only found in nightmares. When the sister of a detective and a son of the local crime boss go missing both approach Cass aide them in their search. What starts out as a simple rescue mission soon becomes a fight to save not only the children but the entire population of Duivel, Missouri.
Viper Moon is one of the best books that I have read all year and I am so excited that it is going to be a series. The book is told in the first person and I was very skeptical about this at first because sometimes I don’t like the person telling the story and it makes for a long, painful read. This was not the case in Viper Moon. Cassandra is an amazingly strong woman who can hold her own in any situation and isn’t afraid to show weakness or admit that she’s wrong. I loved that she had parents and came from a good family with no problems. In so many books the heroine is an orphan or doesn’t know where she came from but with Cass she’s just a simple farm girl who had a dream one night when she was eighteen about the Earth Mother and accepted to be her Huntress. The worst thing that she has going for her is lack of money and men get scared off easily by her job.
There are so many great side characters in this book. Abby is the Earth Mother’s High Priestess and also serves as Cass’ second mother and provides healing and potions when needed. Detective Flynn is my absolute favorite and I loved watching him learn all bout the Burrows and what Cass does on a regular basis. Watching how he transformed through the book was very fun to read about. He also helped show a different, much softer side of Cass that made me like her even more. He is also part of a little love triangle that is going on between himself, Cass and Michael. a business owner of most of the Burrows. Michael is great because he keeps you guessing about which side he is on through the entire book. I could never figure out if he really did love Cass or if he was just using her and planning on sacrificing her to the Darkness. The rest of the wonderful cast of characters include two very venomous, lovable snakes, a cat and a crime boss.
I think Viper Moon is a really great new series that I think a lot of readers will love. It’s very nice to have a strong, likable, smart female character who has to rely mostly on her brain and advanced strength and not some X-men like superpower. I also found myself really enjoying how faced paced the story was and how much happened in such a sort amount of time without feeling rushed. The story is very well written and sets up the next book in the series really well but not so much that you are left with a huge cliffhanger. Great characters, great start to a new series and I can’t wait to see what happens next in the Burrows between the Earth Mother and the Darkness.t
Novel of the Earth Witches Book 1
A-
“I don’t regret the decision to become the Huntress; the search fits my nature and feels right. But I sure wish I had read the small print on the contract before I signed on.”
Cassandra Archer is not your stereotypical witch. She is the the Earth Mother’s Huntress and has served her for years by helping to find missing children that have been kidnapped. The Earth Mother contains the Darkness, an ancient evil, in the Burrows a neighborhood that is full of all kinds of evil both human and monster. Cass has spent years in the Burrows making friends and enemies and fighting monsters that are mostly only found in nightmares. When the sister of a detective and a son of the local crime boss go missing both approach Cass aide them in their search. What starts out as a simple rescue mission soon becomes a fight to save not only the children but the entire population of Duivel, Missouri.
Viper Moon is one of the best books that I have read all year and I am so excited that it is going to be a series. The book is told in the first person and I was very skeptical about this at first because sometimes I don’t like the person telling the story and it makes for a long, painful read. This was not the case in Viper Moon. Cassandra is an amazingly strong woman who can hold her own in any situation and isn’t afraid to show weakness or admit that she’s wrong. I loved that she had parents and came from a good family with no problems. In so many books the heroine is an orphan or doesn’t know where she came from but with Cass she’s just a simple farm girl who had a dream one night when she was eighteen about the Earth Mother and accepted to be her Huntress. The worst thing that she has going for her is lack of money and men get scared off easily by her job.
There are so many great side characters in this book. Abby is the Earth Mother’s High Priestess and also serves as Cass’ second mother and provides healing and potions when needed. Detective Flynn is my absolute favorite and I loved watching him learn all bout the Burrows and what Cass does on a regular basis. Watching how he transformed through the book was very fun to read about. He also helped show a different, much softer side of Cass that made me like her even more. He is also part of a little love triangle that is going on between himself, Cass and Michael. a business owner of most of the Burrows. Michael is great because he keeps you guessing about which side he is on through the entire book. I could never figure out if he really did love Cass or if he was just using her and planning on sacrificing her to the Darkness. The rest of the wonderful cast of characters include two very venomous, lovable snakes, a cat and a crime boss.
I think Viper Moon is a really great new series that I think a lot of readers will love. It’s very nice to have a strong, likable, smart female character who has to rely mostly on her brain and advanced strength and not some X-men like superpower. I also found myself really enjoying how faced paced the story was and how much happened in such a sort amount of time without feeling rushed. The story is very well written and sets up the next book in the series really well but not so much that you are left with a huge cliffhanger. Great characters, great start to a new series and I can’t wait to see what happens next in the Burrows between the Earth Mother and the Darkness.t
July 7, 2011
Lee Roland brings Urban Fantasy to life with her non-stop action and slum-monster battles of good vs. evil, in Viper Moon.
Cassandra Archer is no innocent when it comes to fighting things that go bump-in-the-night, above ground and in dank and dark sewers. Her mission, as Huntress for the Earth Mother is to use her provided powers of strength to find and bring home the lost children. Children who have been stolen and taken to the Barrows, an invisibly shielded Hell on earth of evil. Once taken there, the children are never the same again, and some never make it out.
It is when Cass is confronted by Detective Flynn and crime-boss extraordinaire, Carlos Dacardi that things take a turn for the worst. Flynn's sister has disappeared, as well as Dacardi's son. Both come to Cass to find the children, hearing that she is the best. However, it doesn't take long for all involved to realize that there is something much darker, deeper and sinister at work. Something beyond the horror that normally resounds from the Barrows. The Darkness has a plan and that plan involves Cass and it will stop at nothing to lure her into it's clutches – including the children.
Complete with snakes, bronze bullets and super strength, Viper Moon is a ride like few others. The character of Cass is excellent. Her strength, determination and bravery is astounding and makes the story that much more intriguing and enjoyable. The sizzling romance between Flynn and Cass adds another fun and lively dimension to Viper Moon. Secondary characters such as Abby and Michael truly make the story and I felt myself drawn to Michael. The emotions in which his character evokes throughout the story is incredibly electric and heartfelt.
Lee Roland writes in such a way, that I was quickly drawn into the story, the characters and the setting. This is the first work by Ms. Roland that I have read, however I greatly look forward to reading further works by her. She definitely has a shining talent for storytelling and enveloping the reader within her created worlds. There is humor, suspense, romance, paranormal and drama all rolled into one enormously entertaining ball of urban fantasy fire within the pages of Viper Moon.
For lovers of paranormal and urban fantasy, I highly recommend Viper Moon. The characters are wonderful and vivid, with very real emotions and struggles. The story is engrossing and reads very quickly (aka: it's incredibly difficult to set Viper Moon aside once you have begun reading). I honestly was surprised with the twists and turns and how the ending played out. Very satisfied, but surprised.
Viper Moon by Lee Roland is definitely a hit and a book that I am thrilled to have indulged in. You don't want to miss out on it!
Cassandra Archer is no innocent when it comes to fighting things that go bump-in-the-night, above ground and in dank and dark sewers. Her mission, as Huntress for the Earth Mother is to use her provided powers of strength to find and bring home the lost children. Children who have been stolen and taken to the Barrows, an invisibly shielded Hell on earth of evil. Once taken there, the children are never the same again, and some never make it out.
It is when Cass is confronted by Detective Flynn and crime-boss extraordinaire, Carlos Dacardi that things take a turn for the worst. Flynn's sister has disappeared, as well as Dacardi's son. Both come to Cass to find the children, hearing that she is the best. However, it doesn't take long for all involved to realize that there is something much darker, deeper and sinister at work. Something beyond the horror that normally resounds from the Barrows. The Darkness has a plan and that plan involves Cass and it will stop at nothing to lure her into it's clutches – including the children.
Complete with snakes, bronze bullets and super strength, Viper Moon is a ride like few others. The character of Cass is excellent. Her strength, determination and bravery is astounding and makes the story that much more intriguing and enjoyable. The sizzling romance between Flynn and Cass adds another fun and lively dimension to Viper Moon. Secondary characters such as Abby and Michael truly make the story and I felt myself drawn to Michael. The emotions in which his character evokes throughout the story is incredibly electric and heartfelt.
Lee Roland writes in such a way, that I was quickly drawn into the story, the characters and the setting. This is the first work by Ms. Roland that I have read, however I greatly look forward to reading further works by her. She definitely has a shining talent for storytelling and enveloping the reader within her created worlds. There is humor, suspense, romance, paranormal and drama all rolled into one enormously entertaining ball of urban fantasy fire within the pages of Viper Moon.
For lovers of paranormal and urban fantasy, I highly recommend Viper Moon. The characters are wonderful and vivid, with very real emotions and struggles. The story is engrossing and reads very quickly (aka: it's incredibly difficult to set Viper Moon aside once you have begun reading). I honestly was surprised with the twists and turns and how the ending played out. Very satisfied, but surprised.
Viper Moon by Lee Roland is definitely a hit and a book that I am thrilled to have indulged in. You don't want to miss out on it!
July 28, 2011
Really good, but not great. How's that for a wrap-up? And at the very beginning of the review, no less.
"Viper Moon" is the first book of a new series; the cover contains the explanation, "A Novel of the Earth Witches." Main character Cassandra Archer is the Huntress, who works in the service of the lightly-defined Earth Mother. Cass's job is retrieving/saving children from the monsters who live in the dark, spooky, dangerous, magically-hidden section of the city known as The Barrows.
The book has a lot of things to recommend it. Roland has created a really nifty and clearly defined World for her book, and she has filled it with distinctive, interesting and fully three dimensional supporting characters. The plot is good, and the pacing at which is unfolds is very well done.
It also has some things that could have been improved. One of those is the romance angle. Yes, there certainly is one. Two of the male characters (both described as being extremely handsome, of course) are both in love with Cass. If you were around for the 70s, "Torn Between Two Lovers" should now be running through your head. Except she isn't. Instead of agonizing between the two men for a few hundred pages, she knows almost immediately which one she end up with in the final pages. No dramatic tension in the story, no playing one against the other, no nothing. End of conflict. Whether you want to credit the author with a boldly iconoclastic move, or attribute it to a bit of clumsiness on the part of a relatively new writer is up to you.
My other complaint is an odd one: this is a stand-alone story. The book contains an excerpt from the next Novel of the Earth Witches, and Cass is not the main character. "Viper Moon" ends with enough of the main characters still standing that I expected (and hoped for) a follow-up. There's nothing that says that one won't come someday, but it won't be with the next release.
I'm disappointed. Overall, I found "Viper Moon" to be an enjoyable excursion.
"Viper Moon" is the first book of a new series; the cover contains the explanation, "A Novel of the Earth Witches." Main character Cassandra Archer is the Huntress, who works in the service of the lightly-defined Earth Mother. Cass's job is retrieving/saving children from the monsters who live in the dark, spooky, dangerous, magically-hidden section of the city known as The Barrows.
The book has a lot of things to recommend it. Roland has created a really nifty and clearly defined World for her book, and she has filled it with distinctive, interesting and fully three dimensional supporting characters. The plot is good, and the pacing at which is unfolds is very well done.
It also has some things that could have been improved. One of those is the romance angle. Yes, there certainly is one. Two of the male characters (both described as being extremely handsome, of course) are both in love with Cass. If you were around for the 70s, "Torn Between Two Lovers" should now be running through your head. Except she isn't. Instead of agonizing between the two men for a few hundred pages, she knows almost immediately which one she end up with in the final pages. No dramatic tension in the story, no playing one against the other, no nothing. End of conflict. Whether you want to credit the author with a boldly iconoclastic move, or attribute it to a bit of clumsiness on the part of a relatively new writer is up to you.
My other complaint is an odd one: this is a stand-alone story. The book contains an excerpt from the next Novel of the Earth Witches, and Cass is not the main character. "Viper Moon" ends with enough of the main characters still standing that I expected (and hoped for) a follow-up. There's nothing that says that one won't come someday, but it won't be with the next release.
I'm disappointed. Overall, I found "Viper Moon" to be an enjoyable excursion.
October 7, 2011
I feel like I'm constantly saying this but the cover is awesome and was what originally drew my eye to the book (shocking right? lol) The opening scene of VIPER MOON really did a fantastic job of grabbing me and keeping me anchored to the story. The book started with action and ended with action.
I enjoyed following Cassandra, she was easy to get to know and like. Phelan shows up at her door looking for her help in finding his missing 13 year old sister. Her starts out not really liking her but attracted to her all the same. They really work well together. There is also Micheal who is the owner of a club in the Barrows. He really likes Cassandra and she is attracted to him but she doesn't trust herself with him, nor does she trust him so she refuses to even consider him. It definitely makes for some awkward moments for the three when they are together. The world building was great, I liked all the different places that were described and imagining the Barrows was super easy. The book was fast paced. I enjoyed the fact that Cassandra was the Earth mothers Huntress, it was unique and well written. My biggest disappointment about the book is realizing at the end that the next book isn't going to be about Cassandra. I got to know her and got attached to her character and the excerpt for the next book doesn't look like it features her. Hey, maybe I'm wrong I do hope that I am. All in all I was very much entertained and enjoyed VIPER MOON.
March 16, 2016
This is another book that used a lovely cover and misleading blurb to make me think it was going to be a kickass urban fantasy. And as usual it turned out to be a poor paranormal romance with constant relationship angst, love triangle, uninspiring romance and very little of interest in the plot.
The plot itself was confused with the author seeming to forget major plot issues she introduced earlier in the book, which she totally contradicts later. Confused much? What the heck was her editor doing, sleeping? Actually, I could have sympathy because the book sent me to sleep as well.
I'm getting sick of this misrepresentation. If there are love triangles and insta-luv it should be in the blurb so those of us who hate that stuff can avoid wasting our money!
The plot itself was confused with the author seeming to forget major plot issues she introduced earlier in the book, which she totally contradicts later. Confused much? What the heck was her editor doing, sleeping? Actually, I could have sympathy because the book sent me to sleep as well.
I'm getting sick of this misrepresentation. If there are love triangles and insta-luv it should be in the blurb so those of us who hate that stuff can avoid wasting our money!
October 14, 2011
I tried but after I got through about a quarter of the book I decided to end my suffering. Yes she has exotic pets which is just weird. Cassie is rude and a little to much. Then there appears to be a love triangle in the works. Which is not all bad but apparently they have known each other for years but today because it is a Tuesday he makes his intentions known, of course it is at the same time the detective shows up.
Anyway this is not working for me.
Anyway this is not working for me.
July 28, 2011
so, yeah this is kinda fantasy/paranormal romance, but I really really liked this book... I do hope it contiues in the series with these characters in it! I think I cried a little at the end with Nef! (trying not to give away spoilers here) and I really can't wait to understand a few more mysteries that were left to keep me interested :) let's see how it goes!
October 6, 2022
Cassandra Archer is the Huntress. She has faithfully served the Earth Mother for years, rescuing kidnapped children from monsters-both human and supernatural-dwelling in the ruins of the Barrows District. But when two children are kidnapped under similar circumstances, all clues point to a cataclysmic event on the next dark moon. Now Cass must race against the clock and prevent a sacrifice that could destroy the entire town...
Heather's Notes
I so wanted to like this book. I finally gave up between 30 and 40%. I skipped to the back and read the ending. I will probably go back to find out but otherwise this book is just done for me.
Heather's Notes
I so wanted to like this book. I finally gave up between 30 and 40%. I skipped to the back and read the ending. I will probably go back to find out but otherwise this book is just done for me.
June 1, 2023
My first time with this author. I enjoyed this quite a bit. A bit if a different take, the intriguing story line and characters draw the reader along quite well. The pace is good with no flat spots. The interplay between Cassandra, Flynn, Dacardi and Michael is fascinating.
Well done.
Well done.
July 9, 2018
Thank You Ms. Roland
I'll be back to the Barrows, promise
Ken
I'll be back to the Barrows, promise
Ken
May 7, 2021
New author. New series. Nice plot good characters nice twist for the ending but it made sense. I think I will try the next one in the series.
September 10, 2015
This review was first published on my blog Lecture toute une Aventure
My opinion:
Interesting but I still have mixed feeling about this series. To begin, I did enjoy the book, a lot even. I spent a good time not guessing everything and enjoying the ride. Cass is a character you get attached too, fiercely independent she still doesn’t like to be alone thus her funny and attaching pets with their own mind. I’m no fan of serpent, I won’t be, but Nefertiti and Nirah nearly won me over; and Horus, the feline, was simply impossible to resist with his antics. I liked Abby a lot too and I felt for her as it must not be easy to send those love into dangerous situations like that and simply have to stand aside without being able to do anything.
Flynn…I’m a little torn on a side I loved how loyal, protective and good cop he is, on the other side the way he react sometimes badly to the mysteries he has to face and at others time too quickly I just could not decipher him too well and at the end I liked him but not as much as some others. Michael for example.. While he isn’t a bad man he isn’t a good one either… he is more into the grey zone but he did not try to hide it, he was consistent in his actions and his words… he did have a hard life and in a sense I admire him for managing to stay in, the grey and not fall into the dark zone. Same for the mafia boss Carlos, he isn’t good but he really loves his son. I won’t agree with lots of his actions but he was honest in his behaviour, staying true to his way of thinking…. He doesn’t get suddenly all white or darker if you see what I mean. Both Michael and Carlos actions toward Cassandra were motivated of course but true in a sense, they did not doubt her, they offered what trust they could ( in their world that’s something not given lightly)and shared what secret they could.
Flynn keeps a major secret as well and to me it did not seem fair, during a long time he alternate between trusting Cass and judging her and that got on my nerves even if I could understand his reasoning
So the romance was good but with his hesitation it came too quickly in my opinion especially if we consider the stress he was under.
The investigation part, I really loved the paranormal aspect did spice thing up but honestly I don’t remember a book I’ve read lately with so many casualties that I lost count like with this one… yes not all of them are described in detail…. For example we are told the whole gang blow up into little piece, not many more details, no numbers but that’s quite a lot and when you add all the others it becomes quite messy ^^;; not speaking of the sewers and creatures in it.
The fact is that I enjoyed this book but at the same time I doubt I will continue the series… why? Because I need to have the same characters or recurring ones at the moment and I fear that with this series it won’t be the case so until I get an answer for sure or find the next book in a book fair or something I will stay with this one as it end on a good place, not necessarily the end I would have wanted in detail but a good one to make a break without being angsty.
If you want a book with witches, strange creatures, characters neither good nor evil, magic and suspense as well as some humour you could try this one. It’s really worth it.
My opinion:
Interesting but I still have mixed feeling about this series. To begin, I did enjoy the book, a lot even. I spent a good time not guessing everything and enjoying the ride. Cass is a character you get attached too, fiercely independent she still doesn’t like to be alone thus her funny and attaching pets with their own mind. I’m no fan of serpent, I won’t be, but Nefertiti and Nirah nearly won me over; and Horus, the feline, was simply impossible to resist with his antics. I liked Abby a lot too and I felt for her as it must not be easy to send those love into dangerous situations like that and simply have to stand aside without being able to do anything.
Flynn…I’m a little torn on a side I loved how loyal, protective and good cop he is, on the other side the way he react sometimes badly to the mysteries he has to face and at others time too quickly I just could not decipher him too well and at the end I liked him but not as much as some others. Michael for example.. While he isn’t a bad man he isn’t a good one either… he is more into the grey zone but he did not try to hide it, he was consistent in his actions and his words… he did have a hard life and in a sense I admire him for managing to stay in, the grey and not fall into the dark zone. Same for the mafia boss Carlos, he isn’t good but he really loves his son. I won’t agree with lots of his actions but he was honest in his behaviour, staying true to his way of thinking…. He doesn’t get suddenly all white or darker if you see what I mean. Both Michael and Carlos actions toward Cassandra were motivated of course but true in a sense, they did not doubt her, they offered what trust they could ( in their world that’s something not given lightly)and shared what secret they could.
Flynn keeps a major secret as well and to me it did not seem fair, during a long time he alternate between trusting Cass and judging her and that got on my nerves even if I could understand his reasoning
So the romance was good but with his hesitation it came too quickly in my opinion especially if we consider the stress he was under.
The investigation part, I really loved the paranormal aspect did spice thing up but honestly I don’t remember a book I’ve read lately with so many casualties that I lost count like with this one… yes not all of them are described in detail…. For example we are told the whole gang blow up into little piece, not many more details, no numbers but that’s quite a lot and when you add all the others it becomes quite messy ^^;; not speaking of the sewers and creatures in it.
The fact is that I enjoyed this book but at the same time I doubt I will continue the series… why? Because I need to have the same characters or recurring ones at the moment and I fear that with this series it won’t be the case so until I get an answer for sure or find the next book in a book fair or something I will stay with this one as it end on a good place, not necessarily the end I would have wanted in detail but a good one to make a break without being angsty.
If you want a book with witches, strange creatures, characters neither good nor evil, magic and suspense as well as some humour you could try this one. It’s really worth it.
July 18, 2011
Cassandra Palmar is the Huntress of the Earth Mother, a demigod who is in a constant power struggle against the Darkness. The Darkness is what looks to be the central villain in the series, one who is pulling the strings if you will. Cass is frequently seen as the protector of children who either get taken into or runaway to the Barrows. The Barrows are essentially the jail of the Darkness, created by the Earth Mother to keep him from escaping. Because of Cass's reputation as finding lost children, she is sought out by Detective Flynn to find his missing sister.
Overall this book was alright. I was expecting it to be the first in a continuing series involving these characters throughout; however, it looks like in every book there will be new characters introduced within the same world. This bothered me because it made the romance the central element of the book. That's fine if you are expecting this to be strictly a paranormal romance novel, but this was labeled Urban Fantasy. The basic problem of this book was how unrealistic said romance was. She had only known him for a couple of days, four at the most, yet they both said they were in love with one another at the end of those four days. I couldn't buy that ever happening in the real world. This was like Romeo and Juliet without the suicide pact. It only happens with teenagers.
Another problem I had with their romance was that they had a love triangle. The other male lead was named Michael. He owned a gym/spa/restaurant by the name of Archangel (I see what Lee did there). It is located on River Street, which is the dividing line between uptown and the Barrows. He is a guy with questionable humanity and very charming to men and women. He and Cass had known each other for YEARS(!) and had this volcano hot sexual chemistry. Cass refused his advances because she believed he wanted to posses her.
Now, while they had known each other for years, he suddenly after all this time wants her to know more about him and strings along hints for her to find out what he really is. Why now? And why does this just HAPPEN to tie back into the main plot? That's too much of a coincidence. It doesn't make sense that he is bringing this all up now and it relates to the missing kids.
Beyond that though I liked Michael a lot. I thought he was a better match for Cass considering he was already a part of her world and he accepted her for who she was. Unlike Flynn who kept vacillating from believing her to thinking she is a fraud, who wanted to be in the relationship to not thinking it was wise for his career, etc etc. Also she said she didn't want anyone to own her, but that changes when she is with Flynn. I just couldn't get into this romance at all.
The next book is hinted that it will involve Michael and some other chick. I might read it just because of Michael. He was very interesting, especially his background and what his future choices will be. This book wasn't horrible. I finished it in a day so it was thought provoking, and I will admit that the ending caught me off guard.
Overall this book was alright. I was expecting it to be the first in a continuing series involving these characters throughout; however, it looks like in every book there will be new characters introduced within the same world. This bothered me because it made the romance the central element of the book. That's fine if you are expecting this to be strictly a paranormal romance novel, but this was labeled Urban Fantasy. The basic problem of this book was how unrealistic said romance was. She had only known him for a couple of days, four at the most, yet they both said they were in love with one another at the end of those four days. I couldn't buy that ever happening in the real world. This was like Romeo and Juliet without the suicide pact. It only happens with teenagers.
Another problem I had with their romance was that they had a love triangle. The other male lead was named Michael. He owned a gym/spa/restaurant by the name of Archangel (I see what Lee did there). It is located on River Street, which is the dividing line between uptown and the Barrows. He is a guy with questionable humanity and very charming to men and women. He and Cass had known each other for YEARS(!) and had this volcano hot sexual chemistry. Cass refused his advances because she believed he wanted to posses her.
Now, while they had known each other for years, he suddenly after all this time wants her to know more about him and strings along hints for her to find out what he really is. Why now? And why does this just HAPPEN to tie back into the main plot? That's too much of a coincidence. It doesn't make sense that he is bringing this all up now and it relates to the missing kids.
Beyond that though I liked Michael a lot. I thought he was a better match for Cass considering he was already a part of her world and he accepted her for who she was. Unlike Flynn who kept vacillating from believing her to thinking she is a fraud, who wanted to be in the relationship to not thinking it was wise for his career, etc etc. Also she said she didn't want anyone to own her, but that changes when she is with Flynn. I just couldn't get into this romance at all.
The next book is hinted that it will involve Michael and some other chick. I might read it just because of Michael. He was very interesting, especially his background and what his future choices will be. This book wasn't horrible. I finished it in a day so it was thought provoking, and I will admit that the ending caught me off guard.
July 22, 2011
This was so not what I was expected. But surprises is usually a good thing in my literary world. From the first pages, you can sense this book is really something else. I was captivated. I wanted to know what's next.
Cass is a witch. More than that, she was choose at eighteen by the Earth Mother (a Goddess who remind me of the Scribe Virgin in Black Dagger Brotherhood coz she's kind of a...bitch) to become the Huntress. She served the EM for years, rescuing kidnapped children from monsters (both human and supernatural). She lives in Missoury where there's two Worlds. One part is a "normal" world, like the one you and I live in but another part of the city is called the Barrows and fill with surnatural creatures (no vampires,faes,werewolves...). More like evil monsters who look like rhinos and apes. The rest of the "normal" world know about the Barrows but they don't want to believe in it and not everyone can enter the Barrows. The World built remind me a little of Ilona Andrews' The Edge series.
When Detective Flynn's pre-teen sister disappear, his mother force him to ask Cass' help finding her. It's really not Flynn's decision. He doesn't believe in magic and thinks Cass is a fraud so at first, he's really not happy to ask for her help. But when Earth Mother order Cass to team up with Flynn he's force to open his eyes and accept that the world he knew is changing and not what he thought it was. But Flynn's not the only one who will learn things. Cass have decisions to make to and begin to question her faith in the Earth Mother. Full of action, this Urban Fantasy is about witch, God and Godess and the sacrifices Cass must do as the Huntress.
Speaking of Cass...What a good character she was. At first, she seems like an average girl, kind of like you and me. She's very down-to-earth and no-non sense. But she's more than meet the eyes. She have powers (nothing X-Menesque, more like more than human strenght and speed). Her associations are strange too. She lives with two snakes and one cat. As if the two snakes wasn't already unusual, they're venomous and her cat have a serious pissy attitude. And they're not completely pets either. More like an offering from the Earth Mother and allies too. Speaking of allies... Cass' consist of a cop (the only normal one), a weapon dealer and other offences and a demi-god whose loyalty is unclear.
I loved how Cass & Flynn was introduced to each other and their dialogue. They never saw each other before but it's like they already knew each other. One of my favorite scene is when Flynn is introduced to Cass' menagerie.
More than a good story with interesting characters, this book amaze by it's originality. The only negative thing I have to point is that Cass fell in love too fast with Flynn (it's just that it doesn't fit with her character to give her trust so fast). It was easy to guess who the bad guy was but that's the only thing I saw coming.
Cass is a witch. More than that, she was choose at eighteen by the Earth Mother (a Goddess who remind me of the Scribe Virgin in Black Dagger Brotherhood coz she's kind of a...bitch) to become the Huntress. She served the EM for years, rescuing kidnapped children from monsters (both human and supernatural). She lives in Missoury where there's two Worlds. One part is a "normal" world, like the one you and I live in but another part of the city is called the Barrows and fill with surnatural creatures (no vampires,faes,werewolves...). More like evil monsters who look like rhinos and apes. The rest of the "normal" world know about the Barrows but they don't want to believe in it and not everyone can enter the Barrows. The World built remind me a little of Ilona Andrews' The Edge series.
When Detective Flynn's pre-teen sister disappear, his mother force him to ask Cass' help finding her. It's really not Flynn's decision. He doesn't believe in magic and thinks Cass is a fraud so at first, he's really not happy to ask for her help. But when Earth Mother order Cass to team up with Flynn he's force to open his eyes and accept that the world he knew is changing and not what he thought it was. But Flynn's not the only one who will learn things. Cass have decisions to make to and begin to question her faith in the Earth Mother. Full of action, this Urban Fantasy is about witch, God and Godess and the sacrifices Cass must do as the Huntress.
Speaking of Cass...What a good character she was. At first, she seems like an average girl, kind of like you and me. She's very down-to-earth and no-non sense. But she's more than meet the eyes. She have powers (nothing X-Menesque, more like more than human strenght and speed). Her associations are strange too. She lives with two snakes and one cat. As if the two snakes wasn't already unusual, they're venomous and her cat have a serious pissy attitude. And they're not completely pets either. More like an offering from the Earth Mother and allies too. Speaking of allies... Cass' consist of a cop (the only normal one), a weapon dealer and other offences and a demi-god whose loyalty is unclear.
I loved how Cass & Flynn was introduced to each other and their dialogue. They never saw each other before but it's like they already knew each other. One of my favorite scene is when Flynn is introduced to Cass' menagerie.
More than a good story with interesting characters, this book amaze by it's originality. The only negative thing I have to point is that Cass fell in love too fast with Flynn (it's just that it doesn't fit with her character to give her trust so fast). It was easy to guess who the bad guy was but that's the only thing I saw coming.
February 22, 2017
This is a good vs. evil book with a disrespectful, yet efficient, good guy. I liked that even the "bad" guys came together to help the defeat the great evil. OK, with gods involved maybe defeat isn't the right word. However, I enjoyed all the characters and have to know what's going to happen to each.
1) Will Michael find a mate that can keep him on the good-ish side?
2) Now that Cass has reclaimed the kids and brought the bad guy into the mortal realm, what happens next?
3) A ferret? Really?
4) And what of the mobster guy (can't think of his name)? Adopted kids? His son and the cops daughter? Oh my!
Should be a fun ride to catch up on their antics. So another series to add to the ever growing pile.
1) Will Michael find a mate that can keep him on the good-ish side?
2) Now that Cass has reclaimed the kids and brought the bad guy into the mortal realm, what happens next?
3) A ferret? Really?
4) And what of the mobster guy (can't think of his name)? Adopted kids? His son and the cops daughter? Oh my!
Should be a fun ride to catch up on their antics. So another series to add to the ever growing pile.
September 23, 2011
Got myths? Well, there's probably a reference to it in this book, in some way.
Cassandra Archer is a Huntress for the Earth Mother. On her eighteenth birthday she took a vow to serve and save children abducted by the Darkness. She's committed herself to the hunt in Duivel, Missouri where the Mother has created a prison to bind her nemesis the Darkness. For ten years she has gone into the Barrows, the long forgotten downtown bowels of the city, and the creature's cage, to save lost kids. The Barrows of late have become a nest for the unnatural and gangs, an increasingly dangerous labyrinth of mythical and modern day monsters. It's become a hard and taxing life Cass is leading, and she's not afraid to voice her discontent. Along with High Priestess Abby and her pets, they have been handling things as best they can. But two very important children have gone missing, One from a Warlord another from a Guardian, and if Cass can't find them before the dark moon the evil kept at bay under the Barrows will be unleashed.
The title of this book gave me the impression that it was going to be a witch story. I was disappointed. It was actually quite light on magic and more heavy on mythology. Cass doesn't have any magic just some enhanced strength and speed, and an ability to communicated with animals. It's clear she's modeled after Artemis. Rowland touches on quite a few beliefs and myths, including an angelic Michael, a geeky computer god named Thor, and Phelan the wolf. I found this book at times a bit muddled trying to include too much innuendo then it needed. The setting was hard to believe, and the story seemed forced, trying to make everything fit. The characters were interesting, and the idea was good, but I think it could have used some refining. There were some some great action scenes and a nice whirlwind romance crammed in there.
All and all Viper Moon felt like bits and pieces strewn together from other stories I've read. Cass is an Artemis inspired heroine like Nikki Glass from Dark Descendant with a little Gin Blanco thrown in. Flynn had touches of Donovan Caine in him but just less rigid, more likable. It were the little details like these that brought up other books and made me question the story's uniqueness.
Viper Moon had a lot of good things going for it, it was entertaining, and had interesting characters. Maybe the author's second effort will show some growth. I think it was good enough to give the next a try. It's a decent book for a first effort, if your looking for some thrills give it a try.
Cassandra Archer is a Huntress for the Earth Mother. On her eighteenth birthday she took a vow to serve and save children abducted by the Darkness. She's committed herself to the hunt in Duivel, Missouri where the Mother has created a prison to bind her nemesis the Darkness. For ten years she has gone into the Barrows, the long forgotten downtown bowels of the city, and the creature's cage, to save lost kids. The Barrows of late have become a nest for the unnatural and gangs, an increasingly dangerous labyrinth of mythical and modern day monsters. It's become a hard and taxing life Cass is leading, and she's not afraid to voice her discontent. Along with High Priestess Abby and her pets, they have been handling things as best they can. But two very important children have gone missing, One from a Warlord another from a Guardian, and if Cass can't find them before the dark moon the evil kept at bay under the Barrows will be unleashed.
The title of this book gave me the impression that it was going to be a witch story. I was disappointed. It was actually quite light on magic and more heavy on mythology. Cass doesn't have any magic just some enhanced strength and speed, and an ability to communicated with animals. It's clear she's modeled after Artemis. Rowland touches on quite a few beliefs and myths, including an angelic Michael, a geeky computer god named Thor, and Phelan the wolf. I found this book at times a bit muddled trying to include too much innuendo then it needed. The setting was hard to believe, and the story seemed forced, trying to make everything fit. The characters were interesting, and the idea was good, but I think it could have used some refining. There were some some great action scenes and a nice whirlwind romance crammed in there.
All and all Viper Moon felt like bits and pieces strewn together from other stories I've read. Cass is an Artemis inspired heroine like Nikki Glass from Dark Descendant with a little Gin Blanco thrown in. Flynn had touches of Donovan Caine in him but just less rigid, more likable. It were the little details like these that brought up other books and made me question the story's uniqueness.
Viper Moon had a lot of good things going for it, it was entertaining, and had interesting characters. Maybe the author's second effort will show some growth. I think it was good enough to give the next a try. It's a decent book for a first effort, if your looking for some thrills give it a try.
July 26, 2011
Lee Roland's debut Viper Moon was very thrilling! I will admit that I was first drawn to the cover. What more could an urban fantasy reader ask for? Heroine wearing the black leather, carrying her weapon, dark city background and the dark colors and snake just add to the mystic! And also the fact that it takes place in Missouri, albeit a fictional place, I was ready to dive in!
The novel takes off with a bang as we get a glimpse of the life Cass leads. She lives a pretty dangerous life trying to save children that are stolen or lost. There is a bit of world building to the novel but nothing too complex. Even getting the details to Cass's mission and working for the Earth Mother was explained rather nicely.
So far there aren't any typical villainous monsters in the book, like vamps and weres, but there are monsters. Nothing detailed or anything, just monsters that have to be destroyed for they are a part of the kidnapping of children. There's definitely more than one evil in this book and at times Cass must work with the lesser evils to get the job done.
For instance when a criminal's son is kidnapped next, he hires Cass to find him. But strangely Cass doesn't always take the money she's owed. She definitely has a strong moral system which while can be a pinch annoying definitely helps strengthen her character.
The characters were great! I loved the building of Cass and Flynn's relationship. True it happens quickly time wise, but it still develops wonderfully in the book pages. And there's also Michael, owner of the Archangel! Gotta love that. The Archangel is a club and Michael is the owner. His true identity is still a bit of mystery but what's not a mystery is that women love him, except for Cass. She's a challenge for him, so there's definite sexual tension between the two and while Cass admits to feeling a mild attraction, there's not much there for her. Not like there is with Flynn.
Don't want to keep digging into the details there, so I'll cut myself short. Basically this book was just awesome. Some things that were hard to digest--but not incredibly hard--were the concepts of the Earth Mother and what her role in the game plays. There's definitely some loose threads at the end, but nothing major. And there will be a sequel so yay!
If you're looking for a truly stellar UF novel with a kick-a$$ heroine who deals with things other than vampires, than this is definitely a novel you want to check out!
Overall rating 4.5/5 stars
The novel takes off with a bang as we get a glimpse of the life Cass leads. She lives a pretty dangerous life trying to save children that are stolen or lost. There is a bit of world building to the novel but nothing too complex. Even getting the details to Cass's mission and working for the Earth Mother was explained rather nicely.
So far there aren't any typical villainous monsters in the book, like vamps and weres, but there are monsters. Nothing detailed or anything, just monsters that have to be destroyed for they are a part of the kidnapping of children. There's definitely more than one evil in this book and at times Cass must work with the lesser evils to get the job done.
For instance when a criminal's son is kidnapped next, he hires Cass to find him. But strangely Cass doesn't always take the money she's owed. She definitely has a strong moral system which while can be a pinch annoying definitely helps strengthen her character.
The characters were great! I loved the building of Cass and Flynn's relationship. True it happens quickly time wise, but it still develops wonderfully in the book pages. And there's also Michael, owner of the Archangel! Gotta love that. The Archangel is a club and Michael is the owner. His true identity is still a bit of mystery but what's not a mystery is that women love him, except for Cass. She's a challenge for him, so there's definite sexual tension between the two and while Cass admits to feeling a mild attraction, there's not much there for her. Not like there is with Flynn.
Don't want to keep digging into the details there, so I'll cut myself short. Basically this book was just awesome. Some things that were hard to digest--but not incredibly hard--were the concepts of the Earth Mother and what her role in the game plays. There's definitely some loose threads at the end, but nothing major. And there will be a sequel so yay!
If you're looking for a truly stellar UF novel with a kick-a$$ heroine who deals with things other than vampires, than this is definitely a novel you want to check out!
Overall rating 4.5/5 stars
July 11, 2011
You may also read my review here: http://www.mybookishways.com/2011/07/...
Cassandra Archer is the Earth Mother’s Huntress, and it’s her job to save children from the clutches of the Barrows, Duivel, Missouri’s dirty little secret. Since she turned 18, and answered the call of the Earth Mother, it’s all Cass has known. Life consists of diving into the filth of the Barrows, and bringing out the children that are held in its clutches. Monsters roam the sewers, and roving gangs roam the streets above. When Phelan Flynn, hottie and cop, comes to her door, looking for his missing 13 year old sister, Cass agrees to help him. When a mob boss contacts her about finding his missing son, Cass realizes the children may be connected somehow, and that this may be more than she bargained for.
I really enjoyed getting to know Cass. Physically strong, yet emotionally fragile, Cass’ world revolves around saving children and getting by the best she can. She’s got a cat named Horus and two snakes named Nerfertiti and Nirah, and can communicate with them on a basic level as part of her gifts as Huntress. It’s rare that Cass lets a man get close, for fear he’ll tire of her lifestyle and bail, so when she finds herself attracted to Flynn, all her instincts tell her that she shouldn’t get involved, but she’s falling hard and fast. Flynn is drawn to Cass as well, but has trouble turning a blind eye to the things Cass has to do in order to get results. However, he’s determined to rescue his sister, no matter the cost. The romance in Viper Moon really enhanced the story and the dire situation and traumatic events make it easy to believe that Cass and Flynn could fall for each other so quickly. It’s also their bond that brings such an immediacy to the events, which are sometimes violent and tragic. There is another man in Cass’ life; Michael, owner of the Archangel, beautiful beyond belief, and surrounded with secrets and mystery. Cass is attracted to him, but she can’t get past the feeling that he’d like to own her as well as be with her. The author did a great job building the Barrows, and creates a creepy world of night creatures and other nasties that will make you shudder. Viper Moon is fast paced and fun, with twists and turns that you may not see coming. I’m looking forward to more books in this brand new series! want to put it down!
Cassandra Archer is the Earth Mother’s Huntress, and it’s her job to save children from the clutches of the Barrows, Duivel, Missouri’s dirty little secret. Since she turned 18, and answered the call of the Earth Mother, it’s all Cass has known. Life consists of diving into the filth of the Barrows, and bringing out the children that are held in its clutches. Monsters roam the sewers, and roving gangs roam the streets above. When Phelan Flynn, hottie and cop, comes to her door, looking for his missing 13 year old sister, Cass agrees to help him. When a mob boss contacts her about finding his missing son, Cass realizes the children may be connected somehow, and that this may be more than she bargained for.
I really enjoyed getting to know Cass. Physically strong, yet emotionally fragile, Cass’ world revolves around saving children and getting by the best she can. She’s got a cat named Horus and two snakes named Nerfertiti and Nirah, and can communicate with them on a basic level as part of her gifts as Huntress. It’s rare that Cass lets a man get close, for fear he’ll tire of her lifestyle and bail, so when she finds herself attracted to Flynn, all her instincts tell her that she shouldn’t get involved, but she’s falling hard and fast. Flynn is drawn to Cass as well, but has trouble turning a blind eye to the things Cass has to do in order to get results. However, he’s determined to rescue his sister, no matter the cost. The romance in Viper Moon really enhanced the story and the dire situation and traumatic events make it easy to believe that Cass and Flynn could fall for each other so quickly. It’s also their bond that brings such an immediacy to the events, which are sometimes violent and tragic. There is another man in Cass’ life; Michael, owner of the Archangel, beautiful beyond belief, and surrounded with secrets and mystery. Cass is attracted to him, but she can’t get past the feeling that he’d like to own her as well as be with her. The author did a great job building the Barrows, and creates a creepy world of night creatures and other nasties that will make you shudder. Viper Moon is fast paced and fun, with twists and turns that you may not see coming. I’m looking forward to more books in this brand new series! want to put it down!
August 19, 2011
One thing that will turn me off of a book is bad editing. The inconsistencies were so glaring in this book, I am surprised it even made it past the first round of editing! That is my biggest beef with this book. To start with, the main character makes it clear that her friend Abby is not a psychic; however, no more than five pages later, she is going on and on about Abby's wonderful ability to tell the future. Then, about 100 pages from the end of the book, she is again saying that Abby is a psychic. In another instances, she makes it clear that a low-life, scumbag took Maxie with aspirations of making a quick buck with a badly put together kiddie porn. However, later in the book, it comes out that Maxie was not kidnapped by this low-life, but was taken by the biggest dude int he kiddie porn business. What? Did I miss something?
Even though later it turns out to be rather justified, I couldn't understand Cass's belligerent attitude towards the Earth Mother. If you are called into her service, act has her Huntress, and have her as a pseudo-deity, I don't understand getting in her face and calling her a bitch or a whore.
Another thing, read history and mythology before you slap names onto deified characters. The Darkness is named Aiakos, which is the name a king in Greek mythology. This king was renowned in all of Greece for his justice and piety. Explain that to me in relation to the Darkness!
Aside from the glaring issues, this book wasn't terrible. It provided a little bit of entertainment, but it was a meh read for me. It didn't have a wow-factor, or anything that really stuck out to me. If you're looking for an extremely mindless read with some good action, steamy sex scenes, and a lot of guns and ammo, then pick this one up.
For explanation purposes, I am giving this two stars because I cannot get over the poor editing and the inability of the author to even crack a history book and do a little research. Others, however, might really enjoy this mind-numbing read.
Even though later it turns out to be rather justified, I couldn't understand Cass's belligerent attitude towards the Earth Mother. If you are called into her service, act has her Huntress, and have her as a pseudo-deity, I don't understand getting in her face and calling her a bitch or a whore.
Another thing, read history and mythology before you slap names onto deified characters. The Darkness is named Aiakos, which is the name a king in Greek mythology. This king was renowned in all of Greece for his justice and piety. Explain that to me in relation to the Darkness!
Aside from the glaring issues, this book wasn't terrible. It provided a little bit of entertainment, but it was a meh read for me. It didn't have a wow-factor, or anything that really stuck out to me. If you're looking for an extremely mindless read with some good action, steamy sex scenes, and a lot of guns and ammo, then pick this one up.
For explanation purposes, I am giving this two stars because I cannot get over the poor editing and the inability of the author to even crack a history book and do a little research. Others, however, might really enjoy this mind-numbing read.
June 30, 2011
Viper Moon by Lee Roland
Paranormal Romance- July 5th, 2011
4 stars
Viper Moon is a new urban fantasy that will thrill readers looking for a new and exciting venue.
Cassandra Archer is a Huntress. She serves the demanding and often mysterious Earth Mother by saving missing children. She has found many in the feared Barros District where monsters live and prey on the weak. Soon the stakes are raised as the magic that keeps the monsters in the Barros may be changing - it appears a new force wants them freed.
Cassandra latest case is to find two special missing children. One is the sister to a sexy detective and the other the son of a crime boss. Cassandra works alone. But this time the Earth Mother insists she partner with the sexy detective. Cass is frustrated by his lack of faith - and extreme attractiveness. Soon they find themselves running out of clues and time. Will they be able to find the children or is it already too late?
This was a cool urban fantasy. The Earth Mother is not exactly likeable and even cantankerous. She pulls the strings and makes the story more interesting and even kind of funny. The heroine is a hardcore savior with a heart of gold. I liked how she really believes in her purpose even when the chips are down -like when her Earth Mother is not exactly helping things. The detective although a bit grumpy in the beginning is a good foil for Cassandra. He gives her more warmth and humanity besides her 'mission.' This is a solid read that urban fantasy readers will find similar plot-wise but is in a very original backdrop.
Fascinating world and vibrant characters make for a highly entertaining read
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance- July 5th, 2011
4 stars
Viper Moon is a new urban fantasy that will thrill readers looking for a new and exciting venue.
Cassandra Archer is a Huntress. She serves the demanding and often mysterious Earth Mother by saving missing children. She has found many in the feared Barros District where monsters live and prey on the weak. Soon the stakes are raised as the magic that keeps the monsters in the Barros may be changing - it appears a new force wants them freed.
Cassandra latest case is to find two special missing children. One is the sister to a sexy detective and the other the son of a crime boss. Cassandra works alone. But this time the Earth Mother insists she partner with the sexy detective. Cass is frustrated by his lack of faith - and extreme attractiveness. Soon they find themselves running out of clues and time. Will they be able to find the children or is it already too late?
This was a cool urban fantasy. The Earth Mother is not exactly likeable and even cantankerous. She pulls the strings and makes the story more interesting and even kind of funny. The heroine is a hardcore savior with a heart of gold. I liked how she really believes in her purpose even when the chips are down -like when her Earth Mother is not exactly helping things. The detective although a bit grumpy in the beginning is a good foil for Cassandra. He gives her more warmth and humanity besides her 'mission.' This is a solid read that urban fantasy readers will find similar plot-wise but is in a very original backdrop.
Fascinating world and vibrant characters make for a highly entertaining read
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
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