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Spook Squad #3
Penumbra
Agent Sam Ryan has had enough. She wants out, and she wants out now. She's sick of putting up with Gabriel's crappy attitude, sick of seeing nothing but paperwork and the inside off her small office. But most of all, she is sick of feeling lonely. It's time to take control and get a life outside of work. But Stephan, the man in charge of the SIU, isn't about to let her go easily. Offered the choice between guarding a clone and probable enemy of the country, or remaining stuck in her shoe box, Sam reluctantly accepts the former, even though she suspects Stephan is using her as bait to draw out the elusive and dangerous Sethanon. Gabriel is relieved to discover he's finally shaken Sam as a partner, until he learns her new assignment is guarding Wetherton, the clone replacement of a government minister. Both he and Stephan know Wetherton could only have come from one place-Hopeworth. The military base has been involved in DNA experiments for decades and was more than likely the place where Sam was created. But there is a growing likelihood that the military base is also the home of Sethanon himself. Determined to protect her, Gabriel is quickly drawn into the mission. All too soon he discovers the connection between he and Sam is far deeper than anyone could ever have imagined. As the assignment begins to unravel around Sam and her past begins to reveal itself in her dreams, she fights to stay alive because the military wants their creation back. And the only person standing between her and them might well be the enemy of all mankind.
204 pages, Paperback
First published November 16, 2005
118 people are currently reading
904 people want to read
About the author
Keri Arthur
102 books6,002 followersKeri Arthur, author of the New York Times bestselling Riley Jenson, Guardian series, has now written more than 25 books. She's received several nominations in the Best Contemporary Paranormal category of the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Awards, and recently won RT's Career Achievement Award for urban fantasy. She lives in Melbourne with her daughter and two crazy dogs
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
August 4, 2024
Penumbra
is the third and final book in the Spook Squad series by Keri Arthur. This one answered many questions, but also leaves us with a few things left to be discovered. It’s another fast-paced and action-packed adventure.
I was eager to get into this third novel after finishing the second. I’m sad this is the last volume; because their is more to be discovered and flushed out even though many of our questions about Sam’s past and Sam in general get answered, the author leaves possibilities open to add more books.
Sam realizes she isn’t happy and even more alone and finally decides to apply for a transfer. Stephan doesn’t agree and offers her a solo mission. Gabriel has mixed feelings about this, even though he’s wanted Sam out of his life from the start, and well he gets what he wants; in the end ending up with a new partner and a mission of his own.
The mystery missions both Sam and Gabriel have to take on where intriguing to say the least. I liked seeing Sam on her own, she becomes more confident and dives into her strengths and weakness. She is starting to dream of her past or is she? She is also starting to have a life of her own and moving on. I think this time apart from Gabriel was good for both. And to see Sam struggle with the dreams, the mysterious Joe, and that she is/or might be a creation of Hopeworth added to the story and intrigue.
We get to meet Gabrie’s new partner Illie, who is funny and fresh and it’s only naturally to like him. We also finally get answers to many of our questions. We learn the truth about Sam, her past, her relationship with Gabriel, her relationship with Joe, and her origins. I loved seeing the evolution of her powers as a young woman and discovering what she really was and can do.
As for the romance, which I’ve been saying was nothing, is now coming into play. They have had this instant attraction, but Gabriel has fought it tooth and nail. Sam has tried to break down the barriers he put up, but to no avail and so, she's deiced to move on, yet Gabriel isn’t happy about this and so we see a change in him and by the end they are tentatively together.
As for ending the novel. The epilogue was perfect, but ending the series well we are left with the knowledge that a war is coming. These first three novels in the series introduced the world and characters fabulous. I’m sorry we don’t have any more in the Spook Squad and I hope one day the author will come back to the series, because I still have questions and want more of these fabulously interesting characters.
To sum up this was an amazing trilogy although I may never know what happens afterwards. I still cherished the novels and the adventure.
Rated: 4 Stars
I was eager to get into this third novel after finishing the second. I’m sad this is the last volume; because their is more to be discovered and flushed out even though many of our questions about Sam’s past and Sam in general get answered, the author leaves possibilities open to add more books.
Sam realizes she isn’t happy and even more alone and finally decides to apply for a transfer. Stephan doesn’t agree and offers her a solo mission. Gabriel has mixed feelings about this, even though he’s wanted Sam out of his life from the start, and well he gets what he wants; in the end ending up with a new partner and a mission of his own.
The mystery missions both Sam and Gabriel have to take on where intriguing to say the least. I liked seeing Sam on her own, she becomes more confident and dives into her strengths and weakness. She is starting to dream of her past or is she? She is also starting to have a life of her own and moving on. I think this time apart from Gabriel was good for both. And to see Sam struggle with the dreams, the mysterious Joe, and that she is/or might be a creation of Hopeworth added to the story and intrigue.
We get to meet Gabrie’s new partner Illie, who is funny and fresh and it’s only naturally to like him. We also finally get answers to many of our questions. We learn the truth about Sam, her past, her relationship with Gabriel, her relationship with Joe, and her origins. I loved seeing the evolution of her powers as a young woman and discovering what she really was and can do.
As for the romance, which I’ve been saying was nothing, is now coming into play. They have had this instant attraction, but Gabriel has fought it tooth and nail. Sam has tried to break down the barriers he put up, but to no avail and so, she's deiced to move on, yet Gabriel isn’t happy about this and so we see a change in him and by the end they are tentatively together.
As for ending the novel. The epilogue was perfect, but ending the series well we are left with the knowledge that a war is coming. These first three novels in the series introduced the world and characters fabulous. I’m sorry we don’t have any more in the Spook Squad and I hope one day the author will come back to the series, because I still have questions and want more of these fabulously interesting characters.
To sum up this was an amazing trilogy although I may never know what happens afterwards. I still cherished the novels and the adventure.
Rated: 4 Stars
December 27, 2021
This is very disappointing... The first series by this author I truly like, and it turns out it is unfinished... This is the third book, but apparently the publisher didn't order more, so it has left us hanging... I am in the process of reading everything by this author, and it is really shocking how the first series with a well structured writing and thought out premise, slow burn romance and more complete characterization By her I run across, is not going to be completed! It says something about us, the readers, doesn't it, if the majority prefers more smut and less plot... Once again, I have nothing against smut, it has its place, but not to the exclusion of actual plot and storytelling... Sad to see this trend....
October 18, 2014
Why in the name of all that is holy would a publisher re-release a book series that has no ending? It wasn't until after I read Memory Zero that I realized these books had been previously published. That wasn't a problem for me, but when I started reading other reviews, I found out that Keri Arthur had abandoned the series after book 3. Surely, it wouldn't be left unresolved... would it? Yes. It would. I reached out to the author on Twitter and asked if what I heard was true. She told me she wrote a new Epilogue for the end of Penumbra to tie up loose ends. This was enough to give me some hope for a resolution. It shouldn't have.
I feel like I should be talking about all the good things about this book and this series. I did, in fact, quite like it. But the sad truth is, how could anyone want to invest in these stories and these characters when you are left with no resolution to the main story arc? It's a slap in the face, that's what it is. And obviously, it has left me quite irritated.
If you are one of the people who cares only about the journey and not the destination, it's a good book. I would have called it at least a B-read, did I not know that there would be no more story behind it. It picks up right behind Generation 18, with Sam trying to get herself out of her partnership with Gabriel. She goes undercover, to protect a clone while actually spying on his movements. We uncover more about her history, about who and what she is. We find out who Joshua is... who Joe is... why she is being targeted and how she is linked to Penumbra. It's filled with action and revelations. It finally moves us forward on a relationship between Gabriel and Sam. It sets up the big showdown with the enemy. And then it ends. It's essentially the perfect penultimate book in a series. Only it's not the penultimate book. It's the end.
The Epilogue helps solidify what I guess would have been a somewhat questionable future between Gabriel and Sam. But it does nothing for the bigger picture. I guess it is so galling because the series is really pretty engaging. I liked it. I want to find out what happens. And I. Never. Will.
Why would you introduce an entirely new audience to this kind of frustration? For shame.
I feel like I should be talking about all the good things about this book and this series. I did, in fact, quite like it. But the sad truth is, how could anyone want to invest in these stories and these characters when you are left with no resolution to the main story arc? It's a slap in the face, that's what it is. And obviously, it has left me quite irritated.
If you are one of the people who cares only about the journey and not the destination, it's a good book. I would have called it at least a B-read, did I not know that there would be no more story behind it. It picks up right behind Generation 18, with Sam trying to get herself out of her partnership with Gabriel. She goes undercover, to protect a clone while actually spying on his movements. We uncover more about her history, about who and what she is. We find out who Joshua is... who Joe is... why she is being targeted and how she is linked to Penumbra. It's filled with action and revelations. It finally moves us forward on a relationship between Gabriel and Sam. It sets up the big showdown with the enemy. And then it ends. It's essentially the perfect penultimate book in a series. Only it's not the penultimate book. It's the end.
The Epilogue helps solidify what I guess would have been a somewhat questionable future between Gabriel and Sam. But it does nothing for the bigger picture. I guess it is so galling because the series is really pretty engaging. I liked it. I want to find out what happens. And I. Never. Will.
Why would you introduce an entirely new audience to this kind of frustration? For shame.
April 10, 2017
OMG!!!!!! WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!! This is soooo good, the ending left me NEEDING AND WANTING more! The war hasn't even started yet, what is going to happen? Where is it all going to go? Are Gabriel and Sam actually going to be together? Are they mates? How will this resolve?????
This is what I'm left feeling after finishing book 3! Arthur had plans to make this series a 4 book series, but Riley got in the way! DAMN YOU RILEY!!!! *shakes fist* this is such a great series and I'm salivating for more, and more than just 4 books. Riley got what 7-9 books or something I think Sam and Gabriel could totally do oh say 40! I enjoy their dynamic, I enjoy their chemistry and how they annoy each other, I REALLY HATE Stephan, I hate how he acts, I hate how cold he is, but I want to see him come around too. Gah! We need more!!!
This is what I'm left feeling after finishing book 3! Arthur had plans to make this series a 4 book series, but Riley got in the way! DAMN YOU RILEY!!!! *shakes fist* this is such a great series and I'm salivating for more, and more than just 4 books. Riley got what 7-9 books or something I think Sam and Gabriel could totally do oh say 40! I enjoy their dynamic, I enjoy their chemistry and how they annoy each other, I REALLY HATE Stephan, I hate how he acts, I hate how cold he is, but I want to see him come around too. Gah! We need more!!!
January 9, 2022
It was disappointing to find out at the end of this novel that it wasn't really the end. Clearly this series had been intended to be more than a trilogy because so much was left open ended, which was a shame because this was a good urban fantasy series with a slow burn romance.
August 5, 2014
Great series ended too soon by publisher I spent my birthday with a new series (for me) that I was really enjoying. The Spook Squad by Keri Arthur. The premise and story are fascinating, involving a close-to-us parallel world where nonhumans live alongside normal in an uneasy balance. They are policed by the SIU, a shadowy group set up to police nonhumans.The main character in the book is Sam Ryan, a State Police Officer. As far as Sam is concerned, she is fully human - but is she truly? With no memory of the first 14-years of her life, Sam is an exemplary officer, but she is also a haunted woman, searching for her life before she awakened in a foster home at 14.In Memory Zero we first meet Sam as she is set to meet with her partner, Jack, in a dark and stinking back alley of Melbourne. Jack - who has been missing for over two weeks, supposedly the victim of an unknown cop killer. Called to the alley by the missing Jack, having promised to tell no one, Sam finds much more than she expects as the Jack she meets is no longer human, but instead is a vampire. And something else - something much, much worse. Killing the man who is her partner, and yet not, Sam is pulled into a whirlwind of terror which begins to pull her history from her own mind, opening doors that should have stayed closed.Generation 18 is the second in the series, and continues Sam's story. Now a member of the SIU, she is partnered with Assistant Director of the SIU, Gabriel, the two are neck deep in the investigation of a serial killer who is targeting a seemingly unrelated group of victims, whose only link is that they are all adopted, and all have red-gold hair. We learn a lot more about Samantha in this volume, and I really came to admire and like her, though not Gabriel, a cold and isolated man, determined to shake Sam off as his partner. He is determined to never have a partner again after the death of his former two partners, one of whom was his mate, Andrea. That loss, when he was 18, has set in his mind that he will never allow anyone close to him again, not even his twin brother. Struggling to catch the killer, the invisible Sethanon, Sam has to fight not only her growing memories, and her jackass of a partner, but also a growing threat against herself and who she may, or may not, be.Penumbra is the third book in the trilogy, and builds up the series to a massive head, as Sam finally realizes who, and what she is. And who Gabriel is supposed to be to her - though he desperately fights it. Tracking a mix of clones, shapeshifters and shapechangers, the murders come fast and furious as the military comes closer and closer to achieving their goals of an unstoppable army, and Sam comes to realize that her dreams of her twin are not only real - but that they are much more dangerous than she ever could have imagined.I was really liking this series. I mean, really liking it - enough that I sat other things aside and continued reading through all three books without stopping, other than to do what I absolutely had to.EDIT TO REVIEW:It appears that the whole "won't be publishing any longer" wasn't actually Keri's fault. Here is a note from here. I really loved the books, Keri, and will be updating all my reviews. I also just finished Full Moon Rising and will be writing a review on that one too. Loved it.Sorry I've upset you by not finishing the series...but the reason is not as simple as I didn't feel like finishing it. I had planned a 4th book, but the Riley Jenson series came along and given it was my first major book contract (along the publisher's decision to release the first 4 books in one year), I had to give priority to that series rather than the Spook Squad novel. And I'm afraid that several years away from the Spook Squad world meant I was no longer immersed in it. I'd rather leave a series unfinished than make a total and utter mess of it.However, with Bantam re-releasing the series in paperback in the US, I did write a brief (5 page) epilogue that gave some closure on the relationship aspects. The rest of the plot (and the war) does remain unfinished.Again, sorry to upset and disappoint you. I wish I could finish the series, too, believe me, but there's just too many other books I have to write.So, now we know why Spook Squad was never finished - the demands of Publishers! I am updating and reposting my reviews everywhere to take her note into account.So, my apologies to Keri for losing my temper and being a snot!
November 22, 2022
3.5ish
We finally gets answers to pressing questions about Samantha’s past and identity. Then, the book ends and the series is over. It’s almost as if the publisher didn’t give the okay for a book 4, so everything had tp be wrapped up in “Penumbra.” It was still a good read and I want to glut myself on more Keri Arthur urban fantasies.
Library eloan
We finally gets answers to pressing questions about Samantha’s past and identity. Then, the book ends and the series is over. It’s almost as if the publisher didn’t give the okay for a book 4, so everything had tp be wrapped up in “Penumbra.” It was still a good read and I want to glut myself on more Keri Arthur urban fantasies.
Library eloan
October 26, 2014
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I was very eager to get into this third novel after finishing the second. I must say that this is the last volume the author wrote for the series and I was very curious to know the answers to my questions, including about the Sam’s past.
After the latest events and realizing that she is not happy and even more alone than ever, Sam decides to apply for a transfer. Yet it seems that Stephan does not agree with her, and offers her one last mission instead, solo, to protect the minister Wetherton. To say that Gabriel is not happy is an understatement … He did not want a partner for fear of endangering her, but the mission is far more dangerous than anything he could have done. This does not change the fact that he now also has a new partner. But of course, Gabriel feels too emotional to let Sam face alone what is happening, especially when everyone seems very interested in her. Each of the two has to work on his/her mission, the first one on a series of murders and the second has to learn more about this clone to try arrest the enemy #1 of the SIU.
I loved this story. We finally learn the truth about Sam, her past, her relationship with Gabriel, her relationship with Joe, her origins. I finally have all my answers as I confess that I am fascinated about Sam since the first volume. So it was a pleasure to learn everything that I had to know. Sam is becoming more confident, desperate to do what she wants, and especially to test the limits of Gabriel to see what he really thinks about her. The latter is quite irritating as he doesn’t assume his wishes and desires, especially when they are named Sam but I loved seeing him change and understand what is happening. Yet nothing is ever easy and it will take some time for him to finally accept what is between them. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the evolution of the powers of the young woman and discover what she really was. We trace the tracks of her past through the characters who keep appearing in her life, as in her dreams. The author also manages quite easily to sow doubt about Joshua and Joe, trying to figure out if they are two separate entities or not, and I was curious to find out the truth about them at the same time.
We are also introduced to the new Gabriel’s partner Illie, I enjoyed him very much for the little I’ve seen. He is funny, fresh and natural, we can only like him. As I said, I still had a great time with the novel, but it is true that now I understand a review I’ve seen about the volume. Oh yes, because we don’t really have an end of the series, although we have some of our answers. A war is about to start, everything is perfectly introduced with the first three volumes and I am sorry to see that there is not a sequel now and I find it extremely unfortunate … I hope that one day author will return to the series, but I do not have much hope about it since it has been many years since this volume. It’s an interesting book but not a good end to a series.
In conclusion, it was a good trilogy although I could never know what happens afterwards. I’m at least glad I could learn more about Sam.
My English review
I was very eager to get into this third novel after finishing the second. I must say that this is the last volume the author wrote for the series and I was very curious to know the answers to my questions, including about the Sam’s past.
After the latest events and realizing that she is not happy and even more alone than ever, Sam decides to apply for a transfer. Yet it seems that Stephan does not agree with her, and offers her one last mission instead, solo, to protect the minister Wetherton. To say that Gabriel is not happy is an understatement … He did not want a partner for fear of endangering her, but the mission is far more dangerous than anything he could have done. This does not change the fact that he now also has a new partner. But of course, Gabriel feels too emotional to let Sam face alone what is happening, especially when everyone seems very interested in her. Each of the two has to work on his/her mission, the first one on a series of murders and the second has to learn more about this clone to try arrest the enemy #1 of the SIU.
I loved this story. We finally learn the truth about Sam, her past, her relationship with Gabriel, her relationship with Joe, her origins. I finally have all my answers as I confess that I am fascinated about Sam since the first volume. So it was a pleasure to learn everything that I had to know. Sam is becoming more confident, desperate to do what she wants, and especially to test the limits of Gabriel to see what he really thinks about her. The latter is quite irritating as he doesn’t assume his wishes and desires, especially when they are named Sam but I loved seeing him change and understand what is happening. Yet nothing is ever easy and it will take some time for him to finally accept what is between them. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the evolution of the powers of the young woman and discover what she really was. We trace the tracks of her past through the characters who keep appearing in her life, as in her dreams. The author also manages quite easily to sow doubt about Joshua and Joe, trying to figure out if they are two separate entities or not, and I was curious to find out the truth about them at the same time.
We are also introduced to the new Gabriel’s partner Illie, I enjoyed him very much for the little I’ve seen. He is funny, fresh and natural, we can only like him. As I said, I still had a great time with the novel, but it is true that now I understand a review I’ve seen about the volume. Oh yes, because we don’t really have an end of the series, although we have some of our answers. A war is about to start, everything is perfectly introduced with the first three volumes and I am sorry to see that there is not a sequel now and I find it extremely unfortunate … I hope that one day author will return to the series, but I do not have much hope about it since it has been many years since this volume. It’s an interesting book but not a good end to a series.
In conclusion, it was a good trilogy although I could never know what happens afterwards. I’m at least glad I could learn more about Sam.
Read
April 19, 2015The publisher got Arthur to write a five page epilogue to append to the end of this book to try and make it seem like the re-issuing of the first three book of this unfinished series wasn't a terrible idea. It's a big load of... It was a promising series that was never finished and ends abruptly. Adding a few pages that try to make it seem like there's suddenly a guaranteed happy ending in store for the couple that was refreshingly taking a slow path toward a relationship just doesn't solve the problem or make it worth buying these books. Although the biggest questions about Sam's past are answered, it's still right in the middle of all of the mysteries and battled and anyone who enjoys reading a series is just going to be super annoyed if they start these books. It's a shame but there it is.
May 14, 2010
Sam has had enough of Gabriel pushing her away and not letting her get involved in any of their cases - she is sick of being stuck in her tiny office doing paperwork so demands a transfer from her boss Stephan. Stephan doesn't want her to leave so he offers to let her guard Wetherton, a politician who they know was replaced by a clone.
Gabriel is relieved when he realises that Sam is no longer his partner - until he finds out her new assignment. He believes that she will be in danger and is determined to keep her safe even if it means going against Stephan's direct orders. Having spent months pushing her away he is starting to realise that he doesn't actually want her out of his life completely but will Sam accept his change of attitude or has he already lost his chance at a relationship between them?
I've been a big fan of this series and this book didn't let me down in terms of action and fantastic plotting. I've enjoyed finding out more about Sam's past and her new abilities and was pleased to finally see the start of something developing between Gabriel & Sam. If I was to rate it as a stand alone book it would be up there with my favorites. Unfortunately, although we do find out some interesting secrets, this book just doesn't have a good enough ending for the last book in a series. There are far too many questions left open & you can tell this wasn't meant to be the last book.
I read on Keri Arthur's website that this was originally supposed to be a 4 book series. It doesn't go into detail about why the last book was never published but I'm guessing it was down to lack of sales. Keri states that she is not intending to write book 4 at this time as it has been so long since she wrote the original books (I believe Penumbra was first published in 2005). She doesn't rule out the possibility of returning to this series in the future so I'm just going to have to keep hoping that we'll get a proper ending eventually.
I've really enjoyed reading these books & would rate it right up there with Keri's Nikki & Michael series if it had a proper ending. As it is I feel disappointed that we're not likely to ever get the answers to all our questions. I would still recommend the Spook Squad trilogy as a great Urban Fantasy series and it has all the hallmarks of Keri's fantastic writing but if you are easily frustrated by the lack of a complete ending then you might want to skip this & try some of Keri's other work. I can recommend the Nikki & Michael series for Urban Fantasy fans and the Ripple Creek Werewolves series if you like Paranormal Romance. Keri Arthur has earned a place amongst my favorite authors and I will continue to work my way through her backlist.
Gabriel is relieved when he realises that Sam is no longer his partner - until he finds out her new assignment. He believes that she will be in danger and is determined to keep her safe even if it means going against Stephan's direct orders. Having spent months pushing her away he is starting to realise that he doesn't actually want her out of his life completely but will Sam accept his change of attitude or has he already lost his chance at a relationship between them?
I've been a big fan of this series and this book didn't let me down in terms of action and fantastic plotting. I've enjoyed finding out more about Sam's past and her new abilities and was pleased to finally see the start of something developing between Gabriel & Sam. If I was to rate it as a stand alone book it would be up there with my favorites. Unfortunately, although we do find out some interesting secrets, this book just doesn't have a good enough ending for the last book in a series. There are far too many questions left open & you can tell this wasn't meant to be the last book.
I read on Keri Arthur's website that this was originally supposed to be a 4 book series. It doesn't go into detail about why the last book was never published but I'm guessing it was down to lack of sales. Keri states that she is not intending to write book 4 at this time as it has been so long since she wrote the original books (I believe Penumbra was first published in 2005). She doesn't rule out the possibility of returning to this series in the future so I'm just going to have to keep hoping that we'll get a proper ending eventually.
I've really enjoyed reading these books & would rate it right up there with Keri's Nikki & Michael series if it had a proper ending. As it is I feel disappointed that we're not likely to ever get the answers to all our questions. I would still recommend the Spook Squad trilogy as a great Urban Fantasy series and it has all the hallmarks of Keri's fantastic writing but if you are easily frustrated by the lack of a complete ending then you might want to skip this & try some of Keri's other work. I can recommend the Nikki & Michael series for Urban Fantasy fans and the Ripple Creek Werewolves series if you like Paranormal Romance. Keri Arthur has earned a place amongst my favorite authors and I will continue to work my way through her backlist.
July 31, 2013
Well, I do prefer my ultimate good guys and their ultimate bad guys not to have their life-forces connected at birth, so the ending was not what I would prefer it to be... Still worthwhile bit of reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2024
It's odd how this is the last book. There's resolution to the trilogy but foreshadows a plot that would be a new trilogy at least.
March 4, 2021
Intruiged
I tore through this book - I really like Sam and Gabriel. I can't wait to see what happens after this story. I know there was an epilogue, but that tied up nothing but the book. Lol. I want to see what happens now.
I tore through this book - I really like Sam and Gabriel. I can't wait to see what happens after this story. I know there was an epilogue, but that tied up nothing but the book. Lol. I want to see what happens now.
September 7, 2011
Dear Ms. Arthur,
I know I say that I prefer stories that are not happily ever after. I'm good with happily for now. I just have to ask, WHY THE HELL is it that your series always seem unresolved? There is no conclusion. I'm left hanging. WHY do you do this to me? I've read four of your series now. Each one I'm riveted and I want to know more. I devour your books faithfully. This latest series, I finally am able to get books 2 and 3; I'm all excited. Book two helped answer questions but posed more unanswered ones. I started to hate Gabriel. I grabbed book three and couldn't wait for the resolution.
In this latest book, the plot thickens (as the cliche goes). I'm half way through the book as the picture is really starting to gel for me. However, I'm starting to be worried. This book isn't that big, I'm half way through and there is still a lot of unresolved issues and NEW problems cropping up. Gabriel is finally showing some emotion to Sam. The worst part for me is I'm pretty sure I know what will happen. It's like two bullet trains coming from opposite directions that will collide. Lip biting, I'm down to the last few chapters. Now I'm really starting to sweat. The answers are coming fast and furious; I'm pretty sure I'm not going to like the ending.
Sam's memory is finally unlocked. It is as I expected all along. What I don't expect is this to be the end. WTF! Yes we know how she came to be. I still don't understand WHY. Why does Joe Black have to do what he feels he needs to do? ARGH! The unresolved conflict is killing me. To be pulled in two such opposing directions with no feasible sight of resolution is going to give my indigestion. Well, and heart ache for Sam. I feel like this series has at least another couple of books to offer.
Ms. Arthur, why do you leave your series with a feeling of not completely finished? I want to know about the war. I want to know more about the shadow walkers. I want to know how this ends. You did the same for the Riley series. Riley never really reconciled with her warring sides. ARGH!
While this series was fast paced and enjoyable, the conclusion does not exist and will cause aggravation to most readers. Especially some of us OCD types. Still, I recommend this book to my feeling paranormal/urban fantasy lovers. Just be forewarned. There are no happy endings.
I know I say that I prefer stories that are not happily ever after. I'm good with happily for now. I just have to ask, WHY THE HELL is it that your series always seem unresolved? There is no conclusion. I'm left hanging. WHY do you do this to me? I've read four of your series now. Each one I'm riveted and I want to know more. I devour your books faithfully. This latest series, I finally am able to get books 2 and 3; I'm all excited. Book two helped answer questions but posed more unanswered ones. I started to hate Gabriel. I grabbed book three and couldn't wait for the resolution.
In this latest book, the plot thickens (as the cliche goes). I'm half way through the book as the picture is really starting to gel for me. However, I'm starting to be worried. This book isn't that big, I'm half way through and there is still a lot of unresolved issues and NEW problems cropping up. Gabriel is finally showing some emotion to Sam. The worst part for me is I'm pretty sure I know what will happen. It's like two bullet trains coming from opposite directions that will collide. Lip biting, I'm down to the last few chapters. Now I'm really starting to sweat. The answers are coming fast and furious; I'm pretty sure I'm not going to like the ending.
Sam's memory is finally unlocked. It is as I expected all along. What I don't expect is this to be the end. WTF! Yes we know how she came to be. I still don't understand WHY. Why does Joe Black have to do what he feels he needs to do? ARGH! The unresolved conflict is killing me. To be pulled in two such opposing directions with no feasible sight of resolution is going to give my indigestion. Well, and heart ache for Sam. I feel like this series has at least another couple of books to offer.
Ms. Arthur, why do you leave your series with a feeling of not completely finished? I want to know about the war. I want to know more about the shadow walkers. I want to know how this ends. You did the same for the Riley series. Riley never really reconciled with her warring sides. ARGH!
While this series was fast paced and enjoyable, the conclusion does not exist and will cause aggravation to most readers. Especially some of us OCD types. Still, I recommend this book to my feeling paranormal/urban fantasy lovers. Just be forewarned. There are no happy endings.
December 16, 2021
Agent Sam Ryan has had enough. She wants out, and she wants out now. She's sick of putting up with Gabriel's crappy attitude, sick of seeing nothing but paperwork and the inside off her small office. But most of all, she is sick of feeling lonely. It's time to take control and get a life outside of work. But Stephan, the man in charge of the SIU, isn't about to let her go easily. Offered the choice between guarding a clone and probable enemy of the country, or remaining stuck in her shoe box, Sam reluctantly accepts the former, even though she suspects Stephan is using her as bait to draw out the elusive and dangerous Sethanon. Gabriel is relieved to discover he's finally shaken Sam as a partner, until he learns her new assignment is guarding Wetherton, the clone replacement of a government minister. Both he and Stephan know Wetherton could only have come from one place-Hopeworth. The military base has been involved in DNA experiments for decades and was more than likely the place where Sam was created. But there is a growing likelihood that the military base is also the home of Sethanon himself. Determined to protect her, Gabriel is quickly drawn into the mission. All too soon he discovers the connection between he and Sam is far deeper than anyone could ever have imagined. As the assignment begins to unravel around Sam and her past begins to reveal itself in her dreams, she fights to stay alive because the military wants their creation back. And the only person standing between her and them might well be the enemy of all mankind.
This is a hard review for me to write. I really like this series, but this was the last book and it is not ended. There are so many unanswered questions, so many things not resolved, and so many more things left undone. The story and the characters are awesome, but knowing it is the end and there is no resolution makes it hard to rate just this book. I was told she came back and added the epilogue later which really makes me ask why? It adds nothing to the story, answers no questions, and just adds to the readers frustration. I am going with a 2, the story on it own is probably a 4 or 4.5, but in all honesty I cannot give that kind of rating to the end of a series that leaves so much undone.
This is a hard review for me to write. I really like this series, but this was the last book and it is not ended. There are so many unanswered questions, so many things not resolved, and so many more things left undone. The story and the characters are awesome, but knowing it is the end and there is no resolution makes it hard to rate just this book. I was told she came back and added the epilogue later which really makes me ask why? It adds nothing to the story, answers no questions, and just adds to the readers frustration. I am going with a 2, the story on it own is probably a 4 or 4.5, but in all honesty I cannot give that kind of rating to the end of a series that leaves so much undone.
November 1, 2014
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
PENUMBRA continues the quick pacing and action of the previous two books in this series. I liked figuring out just exactly what Sam is and how she fits into the vast network of government clones running amok around the world. I loved discovering Sam's powers along with her and how she learns about them was fascinating. This series storyline with an almost never ending rabbit hole of discoveries about just what the government has been doing in regards to human cloning reminded me of the television show Orphan Black which is all about clones and government cover ups. Since I adore Orphan Black you can bet I loved the premise of this series and had fun figuring out where the story was going and what new types of government craziness was going to be uncovered.
The characters are all fun and very well developed. The relationship between Gabriel and Sam as I understand was supposed to be a romance of some sort yet I really didn't feel anything romantic between them. They kept butting heads with Gabriel pushing Sam away and acting like a jerk as Sam attempts to flirt with him unsuccessfully. It got to the point that it became really annoying to have to read. I kind of didn't want them to get together and really they didn't which worked out for my hopes I guess.
The big issue I had with PENUMBRA was the fact that the ending just fizzled out. From what I understand there was supposed to be a fourth book that didn't happen for some reason which explains the random ending to this series. I loved the worldbuilding and storyline of PENUMBRA. The ending and the relationship between Sam and Gabriel were unfortunate downsides to an otherwise great book.
PENUMBRA continues the quick pacing and action of the previous two books in this series. I liked figuring out just exactly what Sam is and how she fits into the vast network of government clones running amok around the world. I loved discovering Sam's powers along with her and how she learns about them was fascinating. This series storyline with an almost never ending rabbit hole of discoveries about just what the government has been doing in regards to human cloning reminded me of the television show Orphan Black which is all about clones and government cover ups. Since I adore Orphan Black you can bet I loved the premise of this series and had fun figuring out where the story was going and what new types of government craziness was going to be uncovered.
The characters are all fun and very well developed. The relationship between Gabriel and Sam as I understand was supposed to be a romance of some sort yet I really didn't feel anything romantic between them. They kept butting heads with Gabriel pushing Sam away and acting like a jerk as Sam attempts to flirt with him unsuccessfully. It got to the point that it became really annoying to have to read. I kind of didn't want them to get together and really they didn't which worked out for my hopes I guess.
The big issue I had with PENUMBRA was the fact that the ending just fizzled out. From what I understand there was supposed to be a fourth book that didn't happen for some reason which explains the random ending to this series. I loved the worldbuilding and storyline of PENUMBRA. The ending and the relationship between Sam and Gabriel were unfortunate downsides to an otherwise great book.
July 26, 2014
I enjoyed this book a lot and I went into it understanding that although there were more books planned, the author doesn't plan to write any of them. As the percentage crept up towards 100% it became all too clear that there was not going to be a proper resolution to the series. The ending of the book is not really satisfying enough for a stand-alone let alone the last book of the collection.
It is a shame, as other reviewers have mentioned, (and I have discussed in my other reviews of the first two books) because the author is very clever in layering her plot with mystery upon mystery. To never reach the true solution to her puzzle is extremely disappointing.
I'll be reading more from Keri Arthur in the future, but I will be researching into whether the series has been properly completed before I pick up a copy.
1 star removed for a frustratingly premature ending to the series.
It is a shame, as other reviewers have mentioned, (and I have discussed in my other reviews of the first two books) because the author is very clever in layering her plot with mystery upon mystery. To never reach the true solution to her puzzle is extremely disappointing.
I'll be reading more from Keri Arthur in the future, but I will be researching into whether the series has been properly completed before I pick up a copy.
1 star removed for a frustratingly premature ending to the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2018
The third book in the Spook Squad series did not disappoint. Fast-paced action, more character development, and more answers to the overarching plot. I again finished this one in one day. The only downside is this is it. This book clearly is the set-up for the big showdown . . . but that will apparently never happen. I will also note that parts of this story did feel compressed and rushed as if Ms. Arthur was trying to get it done in a hurry. Given that this series was shelved for other projects, I'm guessing that it probably was rushed.
Overall a fantastic series. I would love to read more as I like this series a bit more than the Riley Jensen Guardian series. It's just too bad that Ms. Arthur didn't have time for it.
Overall a fantastic series. I would love to read more as I like this series a bit more than the Riley Jensen Guardian series. It's just too bad that Ms. Arthur didn't have time for it.
January 1, 2015
This is the final book in the unfinished Spook Squad series by Keri Arthur. Although the series is excellent, the characters and storyline are well developed and fast moving, the final book finishes only with an epilogue which *kind of* answers the question "What next?"
Most of our questions in previous books are answered, Sam gets together with Gabriel (sort of), but as some of the other readers have said, it was the perfect penultimate book for the unfinished series. I'd recommend the series, with reservations... Be prepared to be a little sad that there is no completion to the story, even though the end was somewhat satisfying.
Most of our questions in previous books are answered, Sam gets together with Gabriel (sort of), but as some of the other readers have said, it was the perfect penultimate book for the unfinished series. I'd recommend the series, with reservations... Be prepared to be a little sad that there is no completion to the story, even though the end was somewhat satisfying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2015
I am really torn in trying to rate this book. I enjoyed it - a lot. Enough that I'd like to go back and read the first books in the series, except for the fact that the ending SUCKS. I have one criteria for anything I read: the book must have a good ending. This doesn't.
As for what hooked me on the book, Keri Arthur wrote an action-filled, fun book to read. The characters seem real and the reader will like them. Really - it's the ending that kills this book.
So how do I rate this? ARGH. I give the book a 4 / 5 and the ending a 1/5. Is that fair?
(ARC provided by Netgalley).
As for what hooked me on the book, Keri Arthur wrote an action-filled, fun book to read. The characters seem real and the reader will like them. Really - it's the ending that kills this book.
So how do I rate this? ARGH. I give the book a 4 / 5 and the ending a 1/5. Is that fair?
(ARC provided by Netgalley).
May 26, 2016
I actually don't mind the unfinished bigger story arc. In a sense, the confrontation in the last chapter makes for all kinds of possibilities with Josh/Joe.
The epilogue also gave a hint to Sam & Gabriel's future, probably not as romantic as I would have liked but still pretty ok.
I'd highly recommend this series to anyone who wants to read an urban fantasy series that doesn't have too many books.
The epilogue also gave a hint to Sam & Gabriel's future, probably not as romantic as I would have liked but still pretty ok.
I'd highly recommend this series to anyone who wants to read an urban fantasy series that doesn't have too many books.
September 19, 2018
Decent paranormal fantasy trilogy about a police officer who doesn't remember anything about her life before age 14. Then everything in her life is turned upside down when it suddenly seems as if nearly everyone is out to get her. Delightfully free of sex (but not sexual tension), I wish things had been tied up a little more at the end of the third book. (The books were originally released in 2004/5, then rereleased with new covers a decade later.)
September 23, 2009
I liked it, but the ending was really annoying. One ought to be able to expect more closure from the third book in a trilogy. I assume that further books will follow, which I shall likely read if they are as good as this, but I hope not to be teased by false endings any more.
August 25, 2011
I absolutely loved this book!! I am disappointed though that there isn't a fourth book to this trilogy.
June 7, 2020
Questions answered
This explained so much. I am glad Sam f Iowa finally has some answers. I hate it when everyone knows about the heroine, but the heroine.
This explained so much. I am glad Sam f Iowa finally has some answers. I hate it when everyone knows about the heroine, but the heroine.
October 18, 2014
Really liked the series, just wish I had known the story wouldn't be fully concluded.
April 26, 2021
So this book definitely kept me reading
So in that aspect it was great (didn't go to bed till 3am) BUT I think for me, I didn't really like this series. The lead female spent THREE book interested in, and chasing the lead male character and he pushed her away, belittled her, insulted her, disrespects her as a law enforcement officer,disregards her pleas for assistance and hurts her purposefully and intentionally, AND never gave her ONE hint that he ever returned ANY interest in her romantically, until LITERALLY THE LAST PAGE OF THE LAST BOOK AND EVEN THEN ALL HE SAID WAS HE COULDNT GET RID OF HER SO WHY NOT!!!? how gd disappointing. It was an interesting read but by the end I wanted the lead female to just tell him to eff off. And it was a bit heart breaking when she finds out who the villain is. Honestly I don't even want to give this series three stars but I know most readers may be more interested in the supernatural aspect of the series that the romantic aspect, and the supernatural aspect was interesting. I wouldn't gripe so buligerantly if the series had been cheaper (or free) but to spend $20+ and hours upon hours of my (very rare) free time, is disappointing. So if u want to read anything romantic or with an HEA, don't read this, the ending only alludes to a more formidable future battle and a cold and short lived physical relationship. But if u like the supernatural and don't care about any of the above, this book is for u.
So in that aspect it was great (didn't go to bed till 3am) BUT I think for me, I didn't really like this series. The lead female spent THREE book interested in, and chasing the lead male character and he pushed her away, belittled her, insulted her, disrespects her as a law enforcement officer,disregards her pleas for assistance and hurts her purposefully and intentionally, AND never gave her ONE hint that he ever returned ANY interest in her romantically, until LITERALLY THE LAST PAGE OF THE LAST BOOK AND EVEN THEN ALL HE SAID WAS HE COULDNT GET RID OF HER SO WHY NOT!!!? how gd disappointing. It was an interesting read but by the end I wanted the lead female to just tell him to eff off. And it was a bit heart breaking when she finds out who the villain is. Honestly I don't even want to give this series three stars but I know most readers may be more interested in the supernatural aspect of the series that the romantic aspect, and the supernatural aspect was interesting. I wouldn't gripe so buligerantly if the series had been cheaper (or free) but to spend $20+ and hours upon hours of my (very rare) free time, is disappointing. So if u want to read anything romantic or with an HEA, don't read this, the ending only alludes to a more formidable future battle and a cold and short lived physical relationship. But if u like the supernatural and don't care about any of the above, this book is for u.
January 19, 2022
All is revealed.... or is it. Its a great book but we don't get all the answers we want as this series is What we do know is that Sam finds out she's a military experiment and she's a rare twin. She has a brother. She was trained to kill but, didn't like it so her brother wiped her memories of their time in the facility. Gabriel is starting to trust and warm to Sam realising there connection means something. Sam is also growing in power. Hers is lightening and she isn't wholly human. Finally the show down. Gabriel only has ever loved his fiancé and she was murdered and it was ......Sam's twin brother. And the kicker Gabriel had just kissed Sam. Now he can't kill her brother because he's linked to Sam and Sam is linked to Gabriel. One dies they all die. Then the series finishes. Its sad because I'd love to have seen where this would have gone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2018
Well, dang. I was decently happy with this series. Urban fantasy with somewhat unique creatures, very little emphasis on romance, many interesting side characters, and not a series of 18,000 books (I didn't want a huge commitment). First book was good, second book seemed to be heading in a different direction but still good, and then... this happened.
Apparently I should have done my research on this series. I would have learned the author lost interest in it and, despite planning a 4-book series, stopped after 3. That's right. Almost zero resolution to the plot threads, including the main plot. Annoying and disappointing. I wish I hadn't wasted my time.
Apparently I should have done my research on this series. I would have learned the author lost interest in it and, despite planning a 4-book series, stopped after 3. That's right. Almost zero resolution to the plot threads, including the main plot. Annoying and disappointing. I wish I hadn't wasted my time.
May 15, 2017
It was a really good read, but it definitely left a lot of things hanging. What is Sethanon's goal? How can Samantha stop him? I originally thought this was a trilogy and was going to bring everything to a conclusion. It did for some things, but it's definitely open-ended.
Then I read the note from the author that there was going to be a fourth book concluding all this, but she got busy with another series. That sucks. We'll never know what happens...and I kind of liked this series more than her Riley series. Ah well, I guess it's up to us to fill in the blanks. That's disappointing.
Then I read the note from the author that there was going to be a fourth book concluding all this, but she got busy with another series. That sucks. We'll never know what happens...and I kind of liked this series more than her Riley series. Ah well, I guess it's up to us to fill in the blanks. That's disappointing.
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