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Ascension #4
Caged in Bone
Abel Wilder, werewolf Alpha, has gone missing, leaving his mate and the pack in a panic. His captor magicked his scent out of the sanctuary so that his mate can’t track him down. Only one witch can cast a spell that powerful.
James Faulkner has finally crossed a line that Elise Kavanagh can’t ignore.
Elise is going to have to hunt James down before the werewolf pack loses its Alpha and Rylie loses her mate. And Elise will have to find a way to make sure that James never bothers the pack—or anyone else—ever again.
James Faulkner has finally crossed a line that Elise Kavanagh can’t ignore.
Elise is going to have to hunt James down before the werewolf pack loses its Alpha and Rylie loses her mate. And Elise will have to find a way to make sure that James never bothers the pack—or anyone else—ever again.
251 pages, ebook
First published December 16, 2013
112 people are currently reading
569 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Reine
114 books2,007 followersHi everyone! My name is Sara, and I write urban fantasy and paranormal novels as SM Reine. I collect swords, cat hair, and typewriters (which I do use for writing!). It's a good day when those three things have nothing to do with each other.
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
March 21, 2021
🖤 Elise Kavanagh Thou Art the Sunshine of Our Black Withered Hearts Buddy Reread (EKTAtSoOBWHBR™) with the MacHalos 🖤
Previous rating: 4 stars.
New rating: 3.325465 stars. Shame on me and stuff.
➽ And the moral of this reread is: yes, I just gave an Elise Kavanagh book a despicably low rating. BUT. It's not my fault. Indeed it is not. Nope nope nope. It's the bloody shrimping werewolves' and their constant, non-stop, neverending, chronic, incessant, perpetual, incessant, unending, uninterrupted, endless, sorry-I-ran-out-of-synomyms dramatically dramatic antics. Elise better skewer them all pronto (and hopefully kill them a little deadly dead in the process). I might have to take care of them myself if she doesn't. Wait. I already read this series and know who Elise is NOT about to slaughter any time soon. Damn.
*screams at the top of her little gills*
“Fleet Admiral DaShrimp! Summon my murderous troops and load the Shrimp Bazooka™! We’ve got some slightly exasperating doggies to dispose of!”
Go my babies, go!
· Book 1: Sacrificed in Shadow ★★★★
· Book 2: Oaths of Blood ★★★★
· Book 3: Ruled by Steel ★★★★
· Book 5: Lost in Prophecy ★★★★★
· Book 6: Torn by Fury ★★★★★
· Book 7: Sins of Eden ★★★★★
· Book 8: The Second Coming ★★½
[June 2015]
► The werewolves in this series all act like silly drama queens.
► The angels in this series are pathetic bores.
► But. Elise Kavanagh. Father of all Demons. Damn you woman, I'd worship a book about underage fluffy bunnies and pastel-coloured rainbows if you were in it.
► But. Chapter 15. So fucked up. So perfect. So sick. So hot. So bloody amazing. Damn.
Full crappy review to come.
Previous rating: 4 stars.
New rating: 3.325465 stars. Shame on me and stuff.
➽ And the moral of this reread is: yes, I just gave an Elise Kavanagh book a despicably low rating. BUT. It's not my fault. Indeed it is not. Nope nope nope. It's the bloody shrimping werewolves' and their constant, non-stop, neverending, chronic, incessant, perpetual, incessant, unending, uninterrupted, endless, sorry-I-ran-out-of-synomyms dramatically dramatic antics. Elise better skewer them all pronto (and hopefully kill them a little deadly dead in the process). I might have to take care of them myself if she doesn't. Wait. I already read this series and know who Elise is NOT about to slaughter any time soon. Damn.
*screams at the top of her little gills*
“Fleet Admiral DaShrimp! Summon my murderous troops and load the Shrimp Bazooka™! We’ve got some slightly exasperating doggies to dispose of!”
Go my babies, go!
· Book 1: Sacrificed in Shadow ★★★★
· Book 2: Oaths of Blood ★★★★
· Book 3: Ruled by Steel ★★★★
· Book 5: Lost in Prophecy ★★★★★
· Book 6: Torn by Fury ★★★★★
· Book 7: Sins of Eden ★★★★★
· Book 8: The Second Coming ★★½
[June 2015]
► The werewolves in this series all act like silly drama queens.
► The angels in this series are pathetic bores.
► But. Elise Kavanagh. Father of all Demons. Damn you woman, I'd worship a book about underage fluffy bunnies and pastel-coloured rainbows if you were in it.
► But. Chapter 15. So fucked up. So perfect. So sick. So hot. So bloody amazing. Damn.
Full crappy review to come.
July 9, 2020
3.5
It was fun while it lasted.
I really enjoyed this series (yes, I know it doesn't end here).
The full universe has over 30 books, so that's awesome on one hand.
On the other hand, though, I feel like it's starting to lose its 'oomph', so I decided to stop with this book (after more than 10 books).
It's a series that's definitely worth reading. Really great characters (and even greater side-characters), engaging and fun plots, and an awesome universe. Also, I love where the story goes, the whole apocalypse and everything. It's fun!
It was fun while it lasted.
I really enjoyed this series (yes, I know it doesn't end here).
The full universe has over 30 books, so that's awesome on one hand.
On the other hand, though, I feel like it's starting to lose its 'oomph', so I decided to stop with this book (after more than 10 books).
It's a series that's definitely worth reading. Really great characters (and even greater side-characters), engaging and fun plots, and an awesome universe. Also, I love where the story goes, the whole apocalypse and everything. It's fun!
June 18, 2014
Every time I finish one of Ms Reine's books, I'm always slightly surprised. Every time I wonder why she hasn't landed a contract with one of the main publishing houses. I've read quite a few of her books, including the YA ones. And not once I've thought she isn't one of the good names in UF, evenfor the YA series, which I never finished (but then I never finished Ms St Crow's either. In both cases I read book one only).
Caged in Bone can't be read stand alone, even if the series can be read alone without the other two mixing up in this world. It's UF moving toward epic fantasy, and here I mean it's coral (one heroine, many lead characters, a world of voices), it has an epic battle going one (hell, heaven, earth), it's nuanced. There's no Good, Bad. There's right and wrong in each and everyone.
Honestly I had hoped for an deserved revenge on James and his arrogance, for all the hurt and the pain, for his total lack of care toward the others. I'm sorry the Elise is still human enough to be unable to get it. But I should have known the author wouldn't have disappointed me. Because James does learn a few points about betrayal. But I wonder what else he has to see to understand his folly. He's destroying all the worlds in in search for power.
Politics, intrigues and multiple threads abound. You will need all your mind to follow this book to the end.
Arc courtesy of Ms Reine.
Caged in Bone can't be read stand alone, even if the series can be read alone without the other two mixing up in this world. It's UF moving toward epic fantasy, and here I mean it's coral (one heroine, many lead characters, a world of voices), it has an epic battle going one (hell, heaven, earth), it's nuanced. There's no Good, Bad. There's right and wrong in each and everyone.
Honestly I had hoped for an deserved revenge on James and his arrogance, for all the hurt and the pain, for his total lack of care toward the others. I'm sorry the Elise is still human enough to be unable to get it. But I should have known the author wouldn't have disappointed me. Because James does learn a few points about betrayal. But I wonder what else he has to see to understand his folly. He's destroying all the worlds in in search for power.
Politics, intrigues and multiple threads abound. You will need all your mind to follow this book to the end.
Arc courtesy of Ms Reine.
October 12, 2017
I want to start off by saying I love this author. I really do. I keep waiting for one of these books to be Bad or not interesting but the series and the books just get better and better. I started with The Descent series and continued on to The Ascension series. This is the fourth book in the series. It really should go without saying, but you really shouldn't start with this book, start with the first book in the series, Sacrificed in Shadow. This book starts out with Abel, the werewolf alpha disappearing from the werewolf sanctuary. Riley and Elise take off to find him and James who also is involved. Elise is preparing to deal with James once and for all. While the last book took place primarily in Hell, this one is set mostly on Earth and in the city of Angels. We have Angels and a few demons. Werewolves and witches. There are some characters and things mentioned that are from her previous series. I've never read the authors first series ,The Cain Chronicles and Seasons of the Moon. (I think some of the are free right now for the kindle) There were things mentioned and characters that were definitely from those series. I was able to follow but it really made me want to read those books. James and Elise fans will be happy with this book. We defiantly get to see the two of them. The book culminated with a big fight in the angelic city. It was definitely a good read that really progressed the story forward. I did miss Hell and while I did get a glimpse of Nuema, I missed my favorite new character Gerard. The book ends with shocker that makes the wait for the next one unbearable!! I am grateful that the author writes fast! Definitely recommend this book!!!! *******This book was given to me by the author in advance for an honest review*****
December 29, 2013
These books are completely addictive. They suck you in and just won't let you go! Elise and Rylie once again joined forces in what seems like a small task, but ends up exploding to apocalyptic proportions.
Abel has gone missing and the only clue they find is a rune that indicates the ever elusive James Faulkner has been somehow involved. Rylie obtains the ruler of Dis's help (aka Elise) in a cross country search for her missing mate. Elise, of course, has an agenda of her own that is a mix of guilt, rage, and conflicted love/hate feelings that still bounce around between James and Elise.
I pretty much read these books for the heartbreaking little scenes we get between James and Elise. Every time James enters on the scene, I smile. As much as I know we should all hate James by now (especially Elise), I'm rooting for every small sign of affection between the two of them. I think I finally figured out what first drew me to this book two-some. They completely remind me of Aeon and Trevor from the Aeon Flux series. It's a tortured love/hate relationship, but you still can't help but root for a happy ending. If that brings back fond memories for you, this series can't be missed. Start from the beginning, though, because all the torture is really worth it for the moments of true happiness.
There are some truly big events that happen in this book, further progressing the storyline and pushing us towards whatever massive ending this series has in store for us. We get slightly more happiness and slightly less torment by the end of the book. It's still a gritty and awesomely action-packed read that you've come to expect from S.M. Reine, with a little ray of sunshine to keep the HEA-chasers holding on to hope. I can't wait to see where this series ends up!
Abel has gone missing and the only clue they find is a rune that indicates the ever elusive James Faulkner has been somehow involved. Rylie obtains the ruler of Dis's help (aka Elise) in a cross country search for her missing mate. Elise, of course, has an agenda of her own that is a mix of guilt, rage, and conflicted love/hate feelings that still bounce around between James and Elise.
I pretty much read these books for the heartbreaking little scenes we get between James and Elise. Every time James enters on the scene, I smile. As much as I know we should all hate James by now (especially Elise), I'm rooting for every small sign of affection between the two of them. I think I finally figured out what first drew me to this book two-some. They completely remind me of Aeon and Trevor from the Aeon Flux series. It's a tortured love/hate relationship, but you still can't help but root for a happy ending. If that brings back fond memories for you, this series can't be missed. Start from the beginning, though, because all the torture is really worth it for the moments of true happiness.
There are some truly big events that happen in this book, further progressing the storyline and pushing us towards whatever massive ending this series has in store for us. We get slightly more happiness and slightly less torment by the end of the book. It's still a gritty and awesomely action-packed read that you've come to expect from S.M. Reine, with a little ray of sunshine to keep the HEA-chasers holding on to hope. I can't wait to see where this series ends up!
March 21, 2020
Too many angsty werewolves, and James is in my doghouse. He's been a bad, bad boy. But Elise was delightful, as always:
Elise straightened. She smiled, and it was a deeply unpleasant expression.
And I still can't wait to read the next one. Hopefully there are less pages dedicated to the dumb werewolves.
Elise straightened. She smiled, and it was a deeply unpleasant expression.
And I still can't wait to read the next one. Hopefully there are less pages dedicated to the dumb werewolves.
December 20, 2013
It gets better and better. Greedily waiting for more....
March 26, 2021
The Angels and Demons Collide
*****Spoilers*****
Yes and more of Elise please. I was frustrated at the outset of this book because the first 20% or so of the book is featured on the other characters and not on Elise. To say I was impatient to get back to her is an understatement so I wasn't the happiest of readers until she makes an entrance. From there on out, the rest of the book is better and moves quickly.
Abel takes off with James to see about returning his brother to life as James is trying to reach Eden to become God and save his son, Nathaniel. James as God could bring Seth back to life. Not knowing the why of things, Elise and Rylie track James down as they believe James took Abel for his own purposes. Once they find out the truth, James is in for a shock because Abel and Seth were half brothers which means Abel is not a direct descendant of Adam and cannot get him to Eden.
While all of that is going on, the angels and Shamain are invaded by demons. Their dimension opens to Earth and starts to fall through but Elise finds a sliver of the tree and uses it to repair the fissure from Shamain to Earth but she still has the ones between Earth and Dis to worry about at the end of this one.
Elise spends much of her time sick and not understanding why as she continues to struggle understanding her new demon powers and limitations. We find out that the reason she's having issues is because of James's magic she's using. Belphegor makes an appearance in the book and cryptically lets Elise not only live but gives her slices of his finger to feed her (gross), and mentions that he can get into Eden and had been dealing with the angel Lelieth in pursuit of his goals. He's still alive at the end of the book so my guess is he's probably been telling the truth about something in there while he's marching to the tune of his own ambitions. Elise and James hook up in this book and it's layered in pain, emotional baggage, and their history which they don't talk about. Not sure where that leaves them after this but Elise realizes that she can't kill James even though that was her goal when she and Rylie took off.
*****Spoilers*****
Yes and more of Elise please. I was frustrated at the outset of this book because the first 20% or so of the book is featured on the other characters and not on Elise. To say I was impatient to get back to her is an understatement so I wasn't the happiest of readers until she makes an entrance. From there on out, the rest of the book is better and moves quickly.
Abel takes off with James to see about returning his brother to life as James is trying to reach Eden to become God and save his son, Nathaniel. James as God could bring Seth back to life. Not knowing the why of things, Elise and Rylie track James down as they believe James took Abel for his own purposes. Once they find out the truth, James is in for a shock because Abel and Seth were half brothers which means Abel is not a direct descendant of Adam and cannot get him to Eden.
While all of that is going on, the angels and Shamain are invaded by demons. Their dimension opens to Earth and starts to fall through but Elise finds a sliver of the tree and uses it to repair the fissure from Shamain to Earth but she still has the ones between Earth and Dis to worry about at the end of this one.
Elise spends much of her time sick and not understanding why as she continues to struggle understanding her new demon powers and limitations. We find out that the reason she's having issues is because of James's magic she's using. Belphegor makes an appearance in the book and cryptically lets Elise not only live but gives her slices of his finger to feed her (gross), and mentions that he can get into Eden and had been dealing with the angel Lelieth in pursuit of his goals. He's still alive at the end of the book so my guess is he's probably been telling the truth about something in there while he's marching to the tune of his own ambitions. Elise and James hook up in this book and it's layered in pain, emotional baggage, and their history which they don't talk about. Not sure where that leaves them after this but Elise realizes that she can't kill James even though that was her goal when she and Rylie took off.
August 3, 2017
I didn't take notes while I read so I will just express that I get a feeling of "wow what a freaking cool book" when I think about what I read. I love Reine's twisty, inventive, wtf inducing, and just plain mind blowing world. It doesn't matter the series, characters, or even the time period I've enjoyed all I've read and am glad I have a bunch more of her books to catch up on. (I started collecting them whenever one would go on sale hence why I'm finishing this series after the others.)
In relation to the characters ... she is so very good at creating those characters that don't follow a total black and white sort of morality. One time you hate them and another you love them. Oh and some you just hate all together no matter what they do because they're annoying as hell (I'm looking at you Riley.)
kk, done fan girling now
In relation to the characters ... she is so very good at creating those characters that don't follow a total black and white sort of morality. One time you hate them and another you love them. Oh and some you just hate all together no matter what they do because they're annoying as hell (I'm looking at you Riley.)
kk, done fan girling now
May 11, 2017
I find it difficult to give this 5 stars because I am not sure how this particular story actually moved the story along. Though it did bring in some new characters and you can't help but wonder those that introduce themselves as friends do they become enemies?
There are always a lot of questions asked and not to mention once some are answered it brings more questions. I think this is going to happen more as this story progresses. But I believe that is what makes a good story. It is what makes you want to turn the page and keep turning. Or keeps you up later then you should because you want to read just one more paragraph or one more page or one more chapter. So here's to good books and good series. Especially this one as I move on to the next book.
There are always a lot of questions asked and not to mention once some are answered it brings more questions. I think this is going to happen more as this story progresses. But I believe that is what makes a good story. It is what makes you want to turn the page and keep turning. Or keeps you up later then you should because you want to read just one more paragraph or one more page or one more chapter. So here's to good books and good series. Especially this one as I move on to the next book.
May 23, 2022
This was another long and enjoyable read in the Ascension series. Its sense of place has incredible detail and though it's fiction, it can easily be taken as real.
Elise is caught in the vast machinations of those around her. James is fighting for his own dreams.
The wolf pack, demons, angels and others continue towards their fates and...so much going on.
Fast-paced and entertaining yet sad, too.
Recommended.
Elise is caught in the vast machinations of those around her. James is fighting for his own dreams.
The wolf pack, demons, angels and others continue towards their fates and...so much going on.
Fast-paced and entertaining yet sad, too.
Recommended.
April 22, 2020
Wow doesn't begin to cover it.
AM Reine has blown me away again. She has turned mythology, criminology and fantasy on its collective ears again. Her characters, situations and feelings just grab you from page one and keep you hanging on through the end of each book. I'm dying to get to book 5 now!!!
AM Reine has blown me away again. She has turned mythology, criminology and fantasy on its collective ears again. Her characters, situations and feelings just grab you from page one and keep you hanging on through the end of each book. I'm dying to get to book 5 now!!!
February 24, 2025
Wow!
This book had so many different things going on that it was both mesmerizing and possibly a little bit confusing. The overall arc of the series wad advanced, however, and just made this reader want to get to the next book asap.
This book had so many different things going on that it was both mesmerizing and possibly a little bit confusing. The overall arc of the series wad advanced, however, and just made this reader want to get to the next book asap.
March 26, 2020
Best books ever!! I love this author and every sarcastic work she writes. She will make you laugh out loud!! Might make u cry but every minute is worth it!!!!
October 21, 2020
Wow!!
AM Twine is an author at the top of her game. Another action packed, riveting and excellent read. I can barely wait to begin book 5.
AM Twine is an author at the top of her game. Another action packed, riveting and excellent read. I can barely wait to begin book 5.
September 3, 2016
It starts out with the Alpha, Abel, vanishing from the werewolf sanctuary leaving his mate back in worry, and to worsen matters it’s not just that Abel has vanished, so has all trace of him, giving sure sign that some powerful magic must have been involved. Rylie, who is still gnawing on Seth’s death, desperately turns to the only person that can help her find her mate again, demon Elise, current ruler of Dis.
Meanwhile in angelic Shamain the body of Leliel is discovered, closer to death than life. Nashriel who gets called in to examine the site finds that the seemingly impossible has happened, a demon managed to cross borders into Heaven. When the attacker can’t be found he goes for his fiancée Summer to enlist her help in the search.
Left by both Alphas, and now his sister, Abram reluctantly takes up temporary leadership of the pack. At this time they get attacked by Clotho, a new sort of powerful demon-hybrid loyal to Belphegor and the Union closes in.
I loved this book - quelle surprise, eh?
As if I actually couldn’t love a book that practically opens with Rylie.
Okay, okay, it does really open with Abel on his last day in the Sanctuary, before he vanishes, but Rylie does make an early appearance. The opening chapter shows us a different side of Abel, one that is usually hidden behind cocky stubbornness and possessive behaviour, making me inclined to like him more again.
As usual I loved the exploration of Rylie and Elise’s friendship, them being such different characters, united in their hunt after James Faulkner.
James was the character that surprised me the most in this instalment of the series, or rather my personal reaction to him. So far I was quite contend with seeing him as the bad guy, but the more we do get to learn about his twisted love for Elise, the less I can help it but almost sympathize with him.
Neuma does play only a minor role again, but it’s nothing short of memorable as it shows us both sides of her, the succubus demon’s and the human’s, and there’s a wonderful moment of bonding that offers Elise for one some well deserved quiet and peace and for other lifts their relationship beyond mere sex to something truly meaningful.
Following the tradition, the fourth book in the Ascension series also offers more information on one of the side characters, and this time it’s Abram who gets to share some of the spotlight, allowing him to become a character in his own right.
"Caged in bone" is definitely more sexy that it’s predecessors, yet I feel that it marks growth to S.M. as an author by the fact that she manages this by not putting more sex in, which seldom works to advantage, but to write the sex there is with more impact, adding emotion to it that goes beyond the simple sating of some carnal hunger.
All in all the story is again extremely well told, never short of surprises, with new alliances being revealed and old acquaintances reappearing, all building up steadily towards an unexpected climax that takes the series in a new direction.
But where other books left off on minor cliff-hangers, just leaving enough open for us to stay curious about what the next book may bring, this one is almost leaving us in a free fall, desperately wondering what will come next and how bad things will turn for our heroes when we hit the ground.
Meanwhile in angelic Shamain the body of Leliel is discovered, closer to death than life. Nashriel who gets called in to examine the site finds that the seemingly impossible has happened, a demon managed to cross borders into Heaven. When the attacker can’t be found he goes for his fiancée Summer to enlist her help in the search.
Left by both Alphas, and now his sister, Abram reluctantly takes up temporary leadership of the pack. At this time they get attacked by Clotho, a new sort of powerful demon-hybrid loyal to Belphegor and the Union closes in.
I loved this book - quelle surprise, eh?
As if I actually couldn’t love a book that practically opens with Rylie.
Okay, okay, it does really open with Abel on his last day in the Sanctuary, before he vanishes, but Rylie does make an early appearance. The opening chapter shows us a different side of Abel, one that is usually hidden behind cocky stubbornness and possessive behaviour, making me inclined to like him more again.
As usual I loved the exploration of Rylie and Elise’s friendship, them being such different characters, united in their hunt after James Faulkner.
James was the character that surprised me the most in this instalment of the series, or rather my personal reaction to him. So far I was quite contend with seeing him as the bad guy, but the more we do get to learn about his twisted love for Elise, the less I can help it but almost sympathize with him.
Neuma does play only a minor role again, but it’s nothing short of memorable as it shows us both sides of her, the succubus demon’s and the human’s, and there’s a wonderful moment of bonding that offers Elise for one some well deserved quiet and peace and for other lifts their relationship beyond mere sex to something truly meaningful.
Following the tradition, the fourth book in the Ascension series also offers more information on one of the side characters, and this time it’s Abram who gets to share some of the spotlight, allowing him to become a character in his own right.
"Caged in bone" is definitely more sexy that it’s predecessors, yet I feel that it marks growth to S.M. as an author by the fact that she manages this by not putting more sex in, which seldom works to advantage, but to write the sex there is with more impact, adding emotion to it that goes beyond the simple sating of some carnal hunger.
All in all the story is again extremely well told, never short of surprises, with new alliances being revealed and old acquaintances reappearing, all building up steadily towards an unexpected climax that takes the series in a new direction.
But where other books left off on minor cliff-hangers, just leaving enough open for us to stay curious about what the next book may bring, this one is almost leaving us in a free fall, desperately wondering what will come next and how bad things will turn for our heroes when we hit the ground.
March 7, 2017
Three to go in this set and it is getting more interesting
December 29, 2013
I received Caged in Bone in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This series is not for the faint of heart. Wow! I expected an intense book, none of them have been light and fluffy, but this installment took that intensity to a whole new level. I’m not quite sure where to start and I’m positive that I won’t come close to doing the book justice, but here it goes…
Everyone is still in recovery mode when Caged in Bone opens. The pack is trying to get back to normal, at least as normal as things can be when they don’t know when the next attack is coming or even where it’s coming from. They’re all dealing with their grief and rapidly changing world in their own way. Unsurprisingly, some are dealing better than others.
Caged in Bone covered a lot of ground. More than one character’s POV was given and not a moment was wasted with any of them. They all had their own personal battles going on and their interactions with each other were more tense than in any book in this series so far. Decisions were made that were more often than not the wrong ones, but for the right reasons. I felt like shaking more than one of them throughout Caged in Bone.
This is a book that you need to be in the right frame of mind to read. Mainly because you need to pay attention to every detail. I might have to go back and read a few sections again before the next book is released. If you’ve been following the series, you know how complicated just Elise’s background is. Caged in Bone makes her history even more intricately woven with other characters. Some of those connections I should have noticed before. Some of them were expected and some of them totally floored me.
There were also more than a few twists and turns. Some characters made some painful discoveries and lives – once again – were left dangling precariously – emotionally and physically. There were also some smexy moments between a couple (kind of) unexpected characters.
It’s been a while since I’ve become this emotionally invested in a group of characters. I care about them and want to see things turn around for all of them – as impossible as that may seem right now. I’ve even started to gain a new respect for a few of the characters that I’ve wanted to hate. That, along with a very long list is what has put this author on my auto-read list. I’ve even forgiven her for the now expected cliff hanger. Yes, the intensity lasted until the very last page… in this case, the very last sentence. It’s a good thing that S.M. Reine writes fast
This series is not for the faint of heart. Wow! I expected an intense book, none of them have been light and fluffy, but this installment took that intensity to a whole new level. I’m not quite sure where to start and I’m positive that I won’t come close to doing the book justice, but here it goes…
Everyone is still in recovery mode when Caged in Bone opens. The pack is trying to get back to normal, at least as normal as things can be when they don’t know when the next attack is coming or even where it’s coming from. They’re all dealing with their grief and rapidly changing world in their own way. Unsurprisingly, some are dealing better than others.
Caged in Bone covered a lot of ground. More than one character’s POV was given and not a moment was wasted with any of them. They all had their own personal battles going on and their interactions with each other were more tense than in any book in this series so far. Decisions were made that were more often than not the wrong ones, but for the right reasons. I felt like shaking more than one of them throughout Caged in Bone.
This is a book that you need to be in the right frame of mind to read. Mainly because you need to pay attention to every detail. I might have to go back and read a few sections again before the next book is released. If you’ve been following the series, you know how complicated just Elise’s background is. Caged in Bone makes her history even more intricately woven with other characters. Some of those connections I should have noticed before. Some of them were expected and some of them totally floored me.
There were also more than a few twists and turns. Some characters made some painful discoveries and lives – once again – were left dangling precariously – emotionally and physically. There were also some smexy moments between a couple (kind of) unexpected characters.
It’s been a while since I’ve become this emotionally invested in a group of characters. I care about them and want to see things turn around for all of them – as impossible as that may seem right now. I’ve even started to gain a new respect for a few of the characters that I’ve wanted to hate. That, along with a very long list is what has put this author on my auto-read list. I’ve even forgiven her for the now expected cliff hanger. Yes, the intensity lasted until the very last page… in this case, the very last sentence. It’s a good thing that S.M. Reine writes fast
January 3, 2014
This one took me a while to get into, but once I was sucked in boy was I hooked. So many things happened in this book. I think that is why it took me a while to get sucked in. But all those things needed to happen. I felt like in this book all the characters from both series were fully pulled in. After I read this one I went and one clicked all the Rylie books since I hadn’t read them yet and devoured them in 2 days. It was like every book in both series were coming together for this one, kind of like everyone is at the party so now let the fun begin. I cannot wait to see what happens next!
Oh James and Elsie. What can I say about these two other than Holy Hannah about time! Things come to a head between these two and explodes. I felt for James and Elsie in this story, my guts were wrenched. You feel like they finally realize fate has made them what they are and they are finally playing with the hands they were dealt. I hate to say it, but I felt for James. After that long, well played game of chess and hearing your opponent say check was very hard to hear.
Abel, Abel, Abel. I loved him since the beginning of Rylie’s books and I fell even harder in this story. This guy is amazing. He was willing to give up everything for something he thought would make everyone (Rylie) happy. And then what happens while they are in Shamain, gut wrenching!!
Nash has a much larger role in this installment and I really liked that. I didn’t like Leliel before and I really didn’t like her after this story. And the last line in the book, holy amazeballs! How am I suppose to patiently wait for the next book with a line like that?
SM Reine has an amazing way to pull her readers in and keep them. When I read her books I feel like I am there, feeling what her characters are feeling. Nothing is better than a book that makes me laugh and cry and be darn right angry that it is over. SM’s books do that time and time again.
I was given a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Oh James and Elsie. What can I say about these two other than Holy Hannah about time! Things come to a head between these two and explodes. I felt for James and Elsie in this story, my guts were wrenched. You feel like they finally realize fate has made them what they are and they are finally playing with the hands they were dealt. I hate to say it, but I felt for James. After that long, well played game of chess and hearing your opponent say check was very hard to hear.
Abel, Abel, Abel. I loved him since the beginning of Rylie’s books and I fell even harder in this story. This guy is amazing. He was willing to give up everything for something he thought would make everyone (Rylie) happy. And then what happens while they are in Shamain, gut wrenching!!
Nash has a much larger role in this installment and I really liked that. I didn’t like Leliel before and I really didn’t like her after this story. And the last line in the book, holy amazeballs! How am I suppose to patiently wait for the next book with a line like that?
SM Reine has an amazing way to pull her readers in and keep them. When I read her books I feel like I am there, feeling what her characters are feeling. Nothing is better than a book that makes me laugh and cry and be darn right angry that it is over. SM’s books do that time and time again.
I was given a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
January 7, 2014
*attempts to conceal my crazy eyes* Guuuuys. THIS SERIES. It slays me. Just when you think things can't get any worse -- because, MY GAWD!, so much has happened since the barriers between earth and hell fell -- THINGS GET WORSE.
Part of me is exhausted from the emotional overload and part of me wants to next part of the story LIKE NOW. *flails quietly in the corner for a moment*
So. Things are looking a little tense for Abel, Rylie, and Elise. James is... I don't know what to think about him. Sometimes I think his intentions are understandable and sometimes I see ALL the ways his ultimate plan can go wrong. Elise's draw to James kills me. For all she knows she can't allow him to continue on the path he's chosen, she also can't kill him. Although she does come close several times.
'Tis a tangled web those two have stretched between them.
Throw in some badness in the angelic city of Shamain, betrayal from EVERY possible side, and what is nearly a literal hell on earth and this book was one non-stop ride. There are more secrets to be uncovered and I can only hope Abel finds all the ways he's worthy of being the Alpha with Rylie because his sense of self worth is severely lacking. Seeing as how I really do like him (now!) and think he and Rylie make an excellent pair, I want him to be happy.
I'm still flaily. In a good way.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Part of me is exhausted from the emotional overload and part of me wants to next part of the story LIKE NOW. *flails quietly in the corner for a moment*
So. Things are looking a little tense for Abel, Rylie, and Elise. James is... I don't know what to think about him. Sometimes I think his intentions are understandable and sometimes I see ALL the ways his ultimate plan can go wrong. Elise's draw to James kills me. For all she knows she can't allow him to continue on the path he's chosen, she also can't kill him. Although she does come close several times.
'Tis a tangled web those two have stretched between them.
Throw in some badness in the angelic city of Shamain, betrayal from EVERY possible side, and what is nearly a literal hell on earth and this book was one non-stop ride. There are more secrets to be uncovered and I can only hope Abel finds all the ways he's worthy of being the Alpha with Rylie because his sense of self worth is severely lacking. Seeing as how I really do like him (now!) and think he and Rylie make an excellent pair, I want him to be happy.
I'm still flaily. In a good way.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 1, 2014
Caged in Bone continues on from where we left off in Ruled by Steel, it is book four in the third series by this author and combines characters from the prior two series with them collaborating to fight a common enemy, evil. In this installment Able vanishes and Riley seeks out Elise to help find him, all roads lead to James and boy is he going to be in trouble. Once again there is scheming and betrayal at every turn and eye-opening revelations that leave you going oh wow. The writing is wonderful, clean, and kept me at the edge of my seat devouring every word. There are some new allies and new enemies that emerge and there was one thing that bothered me with Summer just taking off leaving Abram alone to take care of the wolves, but I got over it later as it all served a purpose. Not all of the characters decision making was very rational or smart, but that is part of what makes a great story, if we agreed with everything that occurs it would be boring and Caged in Bone is certainly not boring. Once again recommend this series be read in order to appreciate the full impact of the world building and to receive the ultimate benefit from this dark and gritty tale. I signed up and requested this book from the author and received it with a request for my honest review without any compensation whatsoever, other than the joy of reading a new book.
August 27, 2016
An absolute page-turner! This is the fourth story in the Ascension series, and I have loved every one of them. Each story gets better than the last as you experience the destruction of Heaven as Hell takes over. This is definitely a must read for anyone who likes an Urban Fantasy story with a heroine who takes charge of the situation. I highly recommend that you read this series in order so that you have a better understanding of what is happening and why. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Reine has planned for the nest story.
Alpha werewolf Abel Wilder is missing. The entire pack has searched for him with no luck of his whereabouts. Rylie Gresham, his mate has gone into full panic because even she cannot find any trace of him, and she knows that the only thing that could have happened to his is that he was hidden from them by magic. She has to find Elise Kavanagh as quickly as possible. They know it has something to do with James Faulkner, and they have dealt with his interference long enough. It’s time to put a stop to James’s plans once and for all. Can they locate Abel and stop James from destroying the werewolf pack before it’s too late? Or will Heaven and Hell fall before they are found?
I received an e-copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Alpha werewolf Abel Wilder is missing. The entire pack has searched for him with no luck of his whereabouts. Rylie Gresham, his mate has gone into full panic because even she cannot find any trace of him, and she knows that the only thing that could have happened to his is that he was hidden from them by magic. She has to find Elise Kavanagh as quickly as possible. They know it has something to do with James Faulkner, and they have dealt with his interference long enough. It’s time to put a stop to James’s plans once and for all. Can they locate Abel and stop James from destroying the werewolf pack before it’s too late? Or will Heaven and Hell fall before they are found?
I received an e-copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2014
Whew! Another 3:30 morning for sleep. Today I slept until nearly 3:00 in the afternoon. Caged in Bone was so stimulating that I just couldn't go to sleep even when I finished reading it. Sure we were left in a safe spot having a few threads tied up. But you could tell there was more. Luckily, I was too tired to see if I had the next book ready so I didn't start reading it yet. I am itchy to get started on it, though.
Have I mentioned that I love Elise Cavanough? After this many books with her as the main character, I nearly think of her as real. Heck, she did live in Reno for quite a while; she could have been a neighbor. **wink**
This book is a continuation of the stories before, saving Heaven (Shamain), trying to resurrect someone we love (sorry, Spoilers!) all the while each character fighting their own personal demons, real and imagined. The book grabs you and won't let go.
By the way, disclaimer: I was given this book by the author for an honest review. So I say, those five stars and my review are fully an honest reaction to a fantastic book in a fantastic series of serieses (is that a word?).
Please read these books. Starting with Seasons of the Moon series, then Cain Chronicles, then Descension and Ascension (which I think I am nearing the end) then the newest one is the Preternatural Affairs series. I can't wait!
Have I mentioned that I love Elise Cavanough? After this many books with her as the main character, I nearly think of her as real. Heck, she did live in Reno for quite a while; she could have been a neighbor. **wink**
This book is a continuation of the stories before, saving Heaven (Shamain), trying to resurrect someone we love (sorry, Spoilers!) all the while each character fighting their own personal demons, real and imagined. The book grabs you and won't let go.
By the way, disclaimer: I was given this book by the author for an honest review. So I say, those five stars and my review are fully an honest reaction to a fantastic book in a fantastic series of serieses (is that a word?).
Please read these books. Starting with Seasons of the Moon series, then Cain Chronicles, then Descension and Ascension (which I think I am nearing the end) then the newest one is the Preternatural Affairs series. I can't wait!
December 25, 2013
I was really excited to start reading this one. I knew it could only get better from the last one and it had left me wanting to know what would happen next. I was definitely not disappointed.
The Ascension series keeps building and this one puts a lot of the pieces together with a few more twists of course. Where Rule by Steel focused more on Hell this one was more about Heaven.
I was really glad to read more about James and what his goal is. I felt like he was just "the bad guy" in the last few books and this one gave him some motivation. It also brought Rylie and Elise closer together as they were forced to work together. The understanding of Elise's demon needs also increased in this book which made her hunger more understanding. Grief was also expressed really well in Abel and his wanting to do anything to get his brother back even give up his mate and life if that is what it would take.
This book is well written and addicting like the other books in the Descent Series, Seasons of the Moon, the Cain Chronicles and the Ascension Series.
The Ascension series keeps building and this one puts a lot of the pieces together with a few more twists of course. Where Rule by Steel focused more on Hell this one was more about Heaven.
I was really glad to read more about James and what his goal is. I felt like he was just "the bad guy" in the last few books and this one gave him some motivation. It also brought Rylie and Elise closer together as they were forced to work together. The understanding of Elise's demon needs also increased in this book which made her hunger more understanding. Grief was also expressed really well in Abel and his wanting to do anything to get his brother back even give up his mate and life if that is what it would take.
This book is well written and addicting like the other books in the Descent Series, Seasons of the Moon, the Cain Chronicles and the Ascension Series.
October 26, 2014
Oh man, this is intense. Everyone is still trying to deal with losses and changes. And with the demons attacking everywhere, people are on their toes. Things are pretty crazy and everyone suspicious of everyone else. Abel's gone, Riley's freaking, Elise is having complications. Things are getting serious and you know the big one's coming just not when and from where.
Elise has a lot on her plate. And you're learning more about her past, and how that past can come back and bit you in the ass. :) And the plot surrounding her twists and will leave you stunned.
I'm still hoping for James to die horribly. And I hope one day Elise may leave her niceness for a minute to do it. Painfully. But at least James is getting something. But his power hungry mode is ruining not just one world but multiple.
This one is still action packed and full of heart wrenching moments. I have come to obsess Ms Reine's writing. I need it. I love this series. I've loved her other series too, but this one is taking it to a whole new level. I can't wait to see what's gunna happen now!! 5 PAWS!!
Elise has a lot on her plate. And you're learning more about her past, and how that past can come back and bit you in the ass. :) And the plot surrounding her twists and will leave you stunned.
I'm still hoping for James to die horribly. And I hope one day Elise may leave her niceness for a minute to do it. Painfully. But at least James is getting something. But his power hungry mode is ruining not just one world but multiple.
This one is still action packed and full of heart wrenching moments. I have come to obsess Ms Reine's writing. I need it. I love this series. I've loved her other series too, but this one is taking it to a whole new level. I can't wait to see what's gunna happen now!! 5 PAWS!!
December 28, 2013
This latest book has to be one of my favourites as there is so much action and moments where I am caught off guard by the latest development. It is just like Sara to lead me in one direction and then "Snap" the story takes a completely different path which is a credit to her as a great storyteller. All my favourites are back and I love the crossover of Elise and Rylie as they make a great team albeit a kinda strange one of complete opposites yet their hearts are in the right place most of the time. I have to admit I have an ongoing love/hate relationship with Nash as his definition of an "Angel" is far from heavenly and their ulterior motives are questionable at times. I am finding some of the demons seem to be more forthcoming and I know whose side I would rather be on in a fight - I would pick Team Elise every time. This series nevers fails to deliver and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a kick ass heroine or two.
January 4, 2014
I am signed up to the author's website and newsletter and so received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
Where to start? Seriously! This whole series is absolutely full of action and this book in no way slows down with that. It is action from start to finish and not just for one character, but for lots of them! There is action down in Hell, on Earth and also in Shamain.
There is such a lot of action, plot twists, character developments etc, that you have to read it through and not skim. This is not a book to try and read quickly because you will miss half (at least) of what is happening. The whole series has depth and although I'm sure I've mentioned it before, I'll say it again. I love the fact that the werewolf pack are involved. I will always have a soft spot for them as they were the first books of Sara's that I read.
So - dark, gritty, action-packed, some heat, twists, turns and an explosive ending. Works for me!
Where to start? Seriously! This whole series is absolutely full of action and this book in no way slows down with that. It is action from start to finish and not just for one character, but for lots of them! There is action down in Hell, on Earth and also in Shamain.
There is such a lot of action, plot twists, character developments etc, that you have to read it through and not skim. This is not a book to try and read quickly because you will miss half (at least) of what is happening. The whole series has depth and although I'm sure I've mentioned it before, I'll say it again. I love the fact that the werewolf pack are involved. I will always have a soft spot for them as they were the first books of Sara's that I read.
So - dark, gritty, action-packed, some heat, twists, turns and an explosive ending. Works for me!
May 6, 2014
Have I mentioned that I want to strangle James?? Oh yeah, I do. A prison for Elise, what was he thinking? Out of everyone who needs to be kept in a prison I would say it's James. Elise isn't your typical hero but she tries to do the right thing even when it isn't easy. James is all about doing the wrong thing even if it's hard! He doesn't care about the consequences and it is driving me crazy. He is going to end up all alone. Even if he does manage to get Nathaniel back it isn't going to solve anything because I don't think that Nathaniel will be happy. I mean we did get a glimpse where it looks like he may have become a God, but I don't think that he will have changed that much. Full 5 out of 5 stars, and moving onto the next :D
July 7, 2014
(Spoiler)Yet again another thrilling ride with James and Elise. It was so concerned about this book knowing that Elise was going after James, but the author managed to give me hope of a reunion even after all the terrible thing James has done and then the rip it away from me. Heart breaking. I mean even after all this time I still hold out hope the James and Elise will reunite like in the first books and conquer evil. And then with then revelation of Abel and Seth, what's James going to do now? Ms Reine has a fantastic imagination and delightfully evil and wicked story to tell that has me hooked and begging for more. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
September 10, 2015
Seriously I had to skip a few chapters just to get through this one. I am getting really tired that the author keeps switching narratives, when ever anything interesting is happening, it makes me feel like the author is seriously trying really hard to piss me of. If the author dosen't kill of that idiot James soon I will stop reading cuse I am getting seriously anoyed at how stupid the plot is when he is involved. It is like the author ran out of actuall interesting things to concentrate the plot on and just made James in to the Good/Bad guy depending on what page you read. It is now getting the point of beeing ridiculous, ffs just kill of James and stop stupefying Elise so much.
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