Lorelei Clay is determined to put down roots in the small town of Fairhaven no matter what the universe throws at her. After all, she’s invested her entire savings in the rundown monstrosity known as the Castle—and she’s on the verge of investing her heart in a certain prince of hell, if he can overcome his literal internal demon.
Lorelei and Kane aren’t the only ones haunted by their histories. When unfamiliar werewolves cause trouble in town, Arrowhead alpha Weston Davies realizes his tragic past is about to catch up with him and threaten the life he's managed to build.
Meanwhile, an issue with a disgruntled fae could result in an interrealm incident if it isn’t handled with velvet gloves, which isn’t exactly Lorelei’s style.
As their problems continue to mount, it becomes clear that unless they face their respective pasts—they'll have no future.
Dead Weight is the fifth book in the Crossroads Queen series. For fans of feisty females, found family, paranormal romance subplots, tortured demon princes, and a feel-good vibe.
Annabel Chase is the author of urban fantasy and cozy mystery novels. She would love to live in a magical town where she can shop at Ready-to-Were for the the perfect outfit, flirt with hot angels and vampires, and cook gourmet meals without exerting any effort. Visit her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Annabel-Chas... or on her website at www.annabelchase.com.
Lorelai took a turn into annoying territory in this one. I felt like she was wishy-washy with Kane, and became a bit of a bitch. Her attitude was "you're not the boss of me" in near tantrum mode, and several times she really cut off her nose to spite her face. It was stupid and I didn't like it - she hasn't been this way throughout the rest of the series.
She also was handing out her secret to people as if it was candy. I found that to be super weird too.
I'm also really really over her helping people who are total dicks to her. It adds this bullshit martyr element that I dislike. West, in particular, needs to go fuck himself already.
Loving this series. Glad I found this author this year. Can’t wait to see if she finally embraces her true self and learns to handle Melinoe. Kane is delicious. Love ray and nana pratt.
Book five did not disappoint. Reading more of Lorelei’s story, seeing her character development flourish, and her relationships grow, is so rewarding. I am immediately going to reread it again so I can savor the moments I rushed through in my first devouring.
Also, seeing a thorn in her side get their just desserts was *chef’s kiss*.
*Source* Kindle Unlimited *Genre* Urban Fantasy *Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Dead Weight is the Fifth installment in author Annabel Chase's Crossroads Queen series. 35-year-old Lorelei Clay is determined to put down roots in the small town of Fairhaven no matter what the universe throws at her. After all, she’s invested her entire savings in the rundown monstrosity known as the Castle—and she’s on the verge of investing her heart in a certain prince of hell, if he can overcome his literal internal demon. Lorelei and Kane aren’t the only ones haunted by their histories.
Things are slowly heating up between Lorelei and Kane. Unfamiliar wolves causing trouble, a monster in a lake, mob vampire threats. Sarcastic humor, great characters, no cliffhanger and hea. Great series.
Lorelei is still trying to settle down in Fairhaven, but there is so much happening. Her romance with Kane is progressing at an extremely slow pace, mysterious werewolves are in town which could affect West, a young Fae has appeared looking for his sister, there is a monster in a lake and she is still being bothered by the vampire mob boss Magnarella. She is also working on her powers. There is actually a lot happening in this book, there is a couple of mysteries, great characters, I especially love Nana Pratt, there are some new and unusual happenings. This is a well written book that although there is a lot going on, everything flows together beautifully. Lorelei is definitely growing out of her self-imposed shell and letting more people into her life, all for the better. You can see how torn she is at times due to this but as she is also a smart, compassionate woman, it’s working for her. You never know what’s going to happen, I’ll find out in the next book.
These ones always go quick! I really like the FMC and her banter with other characters is nice. Kinda felt like there were too many plot points going on at once and they didn't mean much to each other, other than to set Loreli up as being the guardian? Idk...still enjoyed it though! I look forward to seeing more from this series.
Each book has its own issue to solve, and running in the background is all the emotional stuff….how Lorelei sees herself, how she tries to keep her secrets, her attraction to Kane and her opening herself to others she can call friends. Really interesting series!
Dead Weight is Book 5 in the Crossroads Queen Urban Fantasy Series by Annabel Chase.
Lorelei Clay is one busy woman in this book. I love the focus on West Davies, Alpha werewolf and his backstory in this book. Not to mention Kane and Lorelei's romance.
There are multiple story lines that the author has seamlessly integrated.
The world building is so excellent, and I love all the research the author has done.
The characters and action are so well developed and perfectly paced.
Don't miss this exiting installment in one of the best series I have ever read.
West’s former pack is after his head. Magnella is after Lorelei to partner with him in his elixir business. What is happening at Bone Lake? Kane and Lorelei are figuring out where they stand. Lorelei tries her hand at reuniting a family and in return she gets more furniture in her castle. There was a lot of action and adventure in this book. I liked it.
I feel conflicted about how I really feel/the context of this book; how I feel is that the last two books could've been a single one if it wasn't for the external plot. The characters development is sooo slow that it is making me lose interest, and I realize that for them, only few days/weeks pass between each book, but for us readers it's months (and we are lucky that the author writes this fast!), months passed waiting for the next installment to get... something, but instead it's just another adventure with only a hint of a romantic development between the two MCs and of the heroine's internal conflict. And that is not my only problem. 1) Kane and Lorelai. In this book, Lorelai does not seem to care about Kane at all?? She rarely thinks about him, she never wonders about him and his life, she never seeks him, but she's supposedly in love because she gets mad when people talk shit about him? I don't wanna be that person, but she defended a literal giant three-headed snake in this one. I feel like the author wanted to keep the books more PRN centered and keeping the romance light, but what resulted was that there is a difference between how the characters think and act. 2) The dialogues. The banter I really liked in the first installments is becoming kind of annoying, and I think it is because it is quite unrealistic. I love a witty back-and-forth between two MCs flirting, but in the middle of a battle? I just don't see two characters panicking, surrounded by enemies, just going: << Kane glanced at me. “Is that supposed to be intimidating?” “I think so.” “Shall I show them how it’s done?” “I’d be disappointed if you didn’t.” >> Yeah, no. 3) Lorelai's powers. It was already told in the previous books that she was raised by her grandfather, who was the one that really grilled her to be careful revealing her identity. But I never caught that he was also the one that... trained her? In her powers? You want to tell me that a completely human man, who never even heard of magic or anything like that, somehow manages to teach her how to control spirits? Either there is something we don't know yet (along with the mistery of her murdered parents) and the granpa was definetely aware of magic or that is something I will have a hard time comprehending. In general, this series is still entertaining and I flew by this book; but as of right now, the excitement of knowing what is next has disappeared.
Yes to the series, a definite yes to this story. The author too.
Rating: 5⭐️
I gave 5 ⭐️ to Dead Weight because, while Chase accomplishes so many important and exciting narrative goals in this book, she did two things that absolutely smashed it for me. She demolished a villain I couldn’t stand and set up the next story with a twist I didn’t see coming.
Fantastic!
Both of those events happened at the end but all the many other things and plots that led to them were outstanding as well. Just as gripping, funny, totally absorbing in detail and weirdness. And it, again, moves more of the various characters and their individual lives forward in some respects.
Usually its relationship dynamics being shuffled around, emotional scenes and characters being truthful about their struggles, all of which allow the reader to feel even closer and deeper connected to each of them. Because while these characters may be assassins, fae, werewolves, witches, ghosts, vampires and such, the issues that they face are often those that anyone can relate to. Fear of rejection, abandonment, loss, betrayal , and loneliness. It’s in their stories. We get them.
So when Chase makes this an absolutely slowest burn ever romance, the characters also will give us their emotional reasons why it’s necessary for it. Same for any other character’s reactions to whatever happens here. It’s a natural progression from believable way they have been from the beginning to the present.
Chase has a great sense of humor and depth of character. She builds on her stories, and each character becomes stronger and more interesting as the books continue. Especially those assassins from The Guild, her friends Gun and Cam, as well as Kane’s employees.
Yes to the series, a definite yes to this story. The author too.
Cover by Trif Designs, wish it had a more an accurate portrayal of this complicated character. One who only wears old t-shirts and jeans, boots, and is in her early 30’s. Usually worn out by no sleep, no budget and constant physical labor on that money pit of a crumbling house. Put that on the cover. Please.
Crossroads Queen series: Dead to the World #1 Dead of Night #2 Dead Last #3 Dead Wrong #4 Dead Weight #5 Play Dead #6 Dead Heat #7 Half Dead #8 Dead End #9 - April 17,2025
I love this series. It amazes me that Ms. Clay is so worried about being evil and yet, always does good.
*** SPOILERS AHEAD DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THIS BOOK***
This book has so much to unpack. Multiple relationship develops and set backs. Speaking of that, I don't know why everyone is so upset when they find out Lorelei's secrets. They are supernatural, that comes with the territory and safety. We got a feel good story in the search, finding and happy ending for a long lost daughter. We got a real look into West and his past with his former crew showing up and in my opinion, I satisfying ending to that. We got closer to Mr. Poopy pants Vampire- Magnerella or however it's spelled. Although, I don't think that story is completely done, nor is Dr. Edmonds. We got to see more story lines converge and come to light. The death of the demon in Bone Lake was sorta sad, and it seemed like a set back for Lorelei but I think she is starting to see the light thanks to some amazing advice from our friendly ghosts (who are great by the way) and our favorite prince of hell. We even got to see some potential movement on the love front for West and for Lorelei- with minor spice at the end. This book also gave us more to think about in dealing with Lorelei's past, lots of secrets to uncover there with her family, the mark on her head and the fates and finally we saw Addison reappear to push us into the next book.
*** Spoilers Ended*** I can't wait for the next book in the series. I feel like we are really moving along. More and more Lorelei's secrets are coming to light and I am here for it. I need the spice to kick up a little. I want Ms. Clay and several others to have a happy ending. I also want to see her fully embrace her powers and become the Queen I believe she was meant to be. This series is so good, with lots of life lessons tied in, but that's for another day. I hate I have to wait, but I will be ready when the next book drops.
A series you cannot get enough of! ❤️💜🩷 Brilliant, Original and Witty!
It is such a joy to read this well written, fun and truly captivating series! You just get so invested in the story and the amazing characters that once you start, it is very difficult to put it down. I read the whole book in just ONE day! The series follows Lorelei, a fierce, independent, kick-ass FMC, with a complex past, a heart of gold and a sarcastic personality. There are supernaturals, magic, plenty of action, mystery and a slow burn romance. The secondary characters, such as, Nana Pratt and Ray, amongst others, add so much more to this wonderful story. I just cannot get enough of this series!!! Annabel Chase has done an amazing job with this. The story is engaging, fresh, original and always entertaining. What I love most, is the progression we see from Lorelei, her growth throughout the series is beautiful to see. I do have to point out, that even though, I am ALL for a strong, independent FMC, I still would have liked to have seen more involvement from the MMC Kane. I do love that Lorelei in many instances takes care of the threats just fine by herself, but I also have noticed that when faced with sticky situations whenever she is together with Kane, he is suddenly off to the side. It would be nice to actually see them both front and center, fighting together against a threat once in a while. This series needs to be read in order and according to the author, there are still four more books to come! YAYYYY!!!HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! 💖🥰💖
Let's start with the rant: First the ghosts, their incessant nagging drives me nuts, learn to shit up, especially during A and B conversations. Or the constant demanding Lorelei do what they think is best and trying to get involved in Lorelei and Kanes "relationship". Ship them to Antarctica for a week, maybe then they will stop interfering. Then let's talk about Mr Alpha Werewolf and the double standard. I can't get into detail without spoiling stuff BUT let's keep in mind that Werewolves aren't human. If you read this book, you'll get it when you get there. Then we have Mr Flamboyant Mage. When someone obviously is spent and says, let's talk later, let it go for crying out loud! I wanted to throttle him. Also! Anna needs to have her teeth kicked out. 😇
Now the review: I really enjoy this series, there isn't much spice, the slow burn is sooooo slow and mostly entertaining. Anyone with half a brain can see Kane likes Lorelei and she just misses it most times and sticks her foot in her mouth. Lorelei, as always finds herself involved in multiple problems and this time they cross over. Lorelei's secret becomes less of a secret (really, that happened the last book, everyone knows the only good secret is one no one knows). She finds out some (interesting?) information about herself and her parents, helps a Fae who shows up, has her number one enemy try and draw her back into his web of bad choices and gets into it with the Werewolves. So much going on and wouldn't you know it, nothing adding to her woefully sad bank account, again.
Lorelei might be charged with keeping the crossroads safe, but that doesn’t seem to stop trouble from making its way into the town of Fairhaven. Trouble with the werewolves, trouble with the vampires, trouble with the fae; and then there is the very sexy trouble that is her own, personal demon…
Lots of things happen for Lorelei in this book, extending from secrets being revealed to her, to others revealed by her. It’s a turbulent time for her, as she realises there are some important decisions to be made.
I enjoy this series a lot, because while Lorelei is reluctantly powerful, she’s quite well trained in some ways and definitely one of those grumpy-with-a-heart types. She’s made some interesting friends in Fairhaven, and a number of allies that I’m not even sure she realises she’s made. Star of this book award goes to Clyde, who is a little unusual to say the least, but rather amusingly so, though the crows were second for certain. The book did end on a book-hook cliffhanger, but the trauma level was low- maybe a 2/5, though the anticipation is real- I’m looking forward to seeing what trouble she digs up next!
This is an entertaining read for urban fantasy lovers, and for Crossroads Queen series fans alike. You definitely need to have read the other books in the series first though!
exceptionally entertaining paranormal women’s fiction series
This is an exceptionally entertaining paranormal women’s fiction series. A great cast of characters and an entertaining storyline. Lorelei is a woman with unique skills and abilities. She also happens to be a reincarnated goddess. Very few people know about her true persona. She was born to a human set of parents who died in a car crash when she was very young and she was raised by her grandfather who taught her to hide her uniqueness. She has a unique ability to find errors and items. She can see ghosts she talk to ghosts among other things. Living in her castle on the hill in a small town. She is spending her time restoring the old castle to live conditions. She tries to help out people in the town because it is a supernatural nexus with a gateway to other realms and worlds. Friendship with the former prince of hell who happens to be the owner of a local tavern and leader of an assassins guild. Although they only kill bad people. Is wearing her down he hopes anyway. There are vampires fairies werewolves and a few other supernaturals that pop up every so often. It is an entertaining and action packed series filled with mystery adventure magic and mayhem. Read on and see what happens in this chapter. Looking forward to the next book. Check it out
If you're into girl power while the men take a back seat, this series is definitely for you. But be warned, everything is solved very easily without many complications.
West is a terrible alpha. He literally ran and hid. I lost any respect I had for him. He was the only male who almost resembled one. Not anymore.
There were a few too many storylines running through this one, which made it very disjointed.
Lorelei still thinks she needs to do everything herself. She still thinks everyone owes her an explanation while she shouldn't explain things herself.
She's randomly opening up now, but her reasons for doing so don't make sense.
Chase forgets some of the events from prior books. She forgot that she had already told Nana Pratt that she controlled her hand with the scraping knife in the previous book. It wasn't a revelation in this one.
The slow burn romance isn't cute anymore. Mainly because no progress has happened in 5 books. They're at a standstill, and it's no longer interesting. I'm okay that they're taking their time, but they still behave like acquaintances.
I need to read something else before continuing because this is painful. But it's a buddy read, so I'll finish this series one way or another.
This book is definitely not fancy literature, but I still cannot overstate how much I enjoy this series for simply being the exact right thing I like to read. A likeable FMC with power and issues, lots of found family, a contemporary urban fantasy setting where we are not trying to save the entire world (usually), a good balance of action and simply enjoying the characters.
This book was a more relaxed installment in the series, so I anticipate some big things happening in the next book. In this book, something is happening with the wolves, plus an assortment of problems both new and old fall cross Lorelei's path, and of course she insists on solving them herself. Plus quite a bit of growth for her as she wrestles with her past, her powers, and her friends.
Content rating PG-13 for some violent fights (not too graphic), occasional strong language, a few sexual references
Man Lorelei has her work cut out for her. I feel like there’s baddies coming from every direct and even the good guys are coming at her. I’ve been truly hoping west would get over his nonsense and figure out that she’s awesome. Our lovely demon has come to his senses. I’m still team ghosts because they’re my favorite little grandparents lol! And I love that Lorelei has finally found a little found family even if she doesn’t realize it. The witch, the fae, the mages, the wolves, even the vamps. And I’m so so excited that she’s opening up. She’s learning to let her slightly traumatic childhood stop holding her back. She’s starting to truly embrace who she is. I love it! I cannot wait for the next book, because each one gets better and better! I’m almost tempted to reread the whole series right now while I wait!!
Lorelei has her hands full: the search for a changeling for a new friend, the mystery of a monster in Bone Lake to solve, dealing once again with Magnarella and try to help West face the enemies of his past. All that while she and Kane attempt a courtship at the pace of a glacier. I love how more and more people start to know who she is and hope soon all the friends will know. I also enjoyed those visits from Claude and how we generally see Lorelei using her powers more. I also wished for her to get rid of a few enemies and well, I got my wish. Personally I don’t need as many therapy lessons with Otto and Ray. And could definitely do with more Kane, he was a bit scarce in this and a bit too hot and cold for this stage of their relationship. So 3.5 stars, that got promoted to 4 because I enjoy this series in general so much.
It's nothing new. The romance between Lorelei and Kane hots up a bit. She learns that maybe she needn't go to the Dark Side. She meets the Fates (because what self respecting goddess doesn't?) and discovers some skullduggery in her past. All due respect to Ms Chase, she does research her monsters. However, the invention of Bone Lake was a bit of a macguffin. The plot needs to unfold a bit faster and Ms Chase needs to stop inventing things just for Lorelei to have something to do. I did like the insertion of Thing into the story. Someone's been watching Wednesday! All that aside I do like the writing style and it all flows past very easily. The Americanism of it doesn't irritate me the way some others in this vein do. I look forward to the sixth instalment
The reason I only gave 4 stars was bc these books really need to be a little longer. I absolutely love Lorelei (Melinoe) and her character is awesome,these books make me laugh so much, I love the adventure and so many characters!!! Nana pratt and Ray are the best ghosts she could have living with her. Even tho she is a natural born goddess she is also so vulnerable. In this book we learn a little more about her past and her and Kane are getting closer but god I need so many questions answered lol!! Can't wait for the next book I have a feeling something bad is coming Loreleis way
If you have been following Lorelei travails for the past four books, you are going to love this one.
All the awesome characters are back, good or bad are back and major developments come about in her relationships with some of the town members. The ending is a nice cliffhanger for the next book.
In this story you have Lorelei dealing with her usual suspects, until she is reluctantly dragged into West business and he sure is not happy about it, this allows you to get to know more of West backstory and we get to meet some new fairy friends. Great story, as usual for this author.
It's enjoyable, but the heat is very slow moving for Kane and Loralie
Solid 4 star rating.
I've enjoyed this series. Dead Weight had a good storyline with several plots going on, even if there is one primary one. Loralie is still a very likable female lead. Kane is too sweet a gentle demon. There's the budding romance between the two of them, but dang, is it slow. I sure hope that when they eventually get to being together, sparks will fly, and there will be a dark sky full of shooting stars.
This series would be absolutely amazing if it was from different POVs, especially Loralie and Kane's.
I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.