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Cassie Scot #3
Mind Games
Beware your heart and soul…
Evan broke Cassie’s heart two months ago, and she still doesn’t know why. She throws herself into family, friends and her new job at the sheriff’s department, but nothing helps. The only thing that finally allows her heal and move on is the love of a new man, mind mage Matthew Blair. Cassie finds him... irresistible
Matthew may also be the only one who can help keep the nonmagical residents of Eagle Rock from going crazy over the murder of a beloved pastor’s wife. It looks like a sorcerer is to blame, but while Cassie tries to figure out who, others take matters into their own hands. With tensions running so hot, a single spark might set Eagle Rock ablaze.
Evan broke Cassie’s heart two months ago, and she still doesn’t know why. She throws herself into family, friends and her new job at the sheriff’s department, but nothing helps. The only thing that finally allows her heal and move on is the love of a new man, mind mage Matthew Blair. Cassie finds him... irresistible
Matthew may also be the only one who can help keep the nonmagical residents of Eagle Rock from going crazy over the murder of a beloved pastor’s wife. It looks like a sorcerer is to blame, but while Cassie tries to figure out who, others take matters into their own hands. With tensions running so hot, a single spark might set Eagle Rock ablaze.
280 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2014
12 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Christine Amsden
17 books426 followersChristine Amsden has been writing science fiction and fantasy for as long as she can remember. She loves to write and it is her dream that others will be inspired by this love and by her stories. Speculative fiction is fun, magical, and imaginative but great speculative fiction is about real people defining themselves through extraordinary situations. Christine writes primarily about people and it is in this way that she strives to make science fiction and fantasy meaningful for everyone.
Christine currently lives in the Kansas City area with her husband, Austin, who has been her biggest fan and the key to her success. They have two beautiful children.
Christine currently lives in the Kansas City area with her husband, Austin, who has been her biggest fan and the key to her success. They have two beautiful children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
April 30, 2018
Ebook release was April 10!!!
April 17, 2014
Mind Games is the much awaited third installment in the new adult mystery series, Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective. Talented author Christine Amsden keeps delivering a great story filled with interesting characters, romance, mystery, and the paranormal, lots of it.
In this episode, Cassie still doesn’t know why Evan broke her heart two months ago, and the mystery gnaws at her big time. She decides to keep busy and make herself useful at the sheriff’s department. She also meets charismatic mind mage Matthew Blair…much to Evan’s distaste.
At the same time, Eagle Rock is teeming with hate from the religious community, a reaction to the recent murder of a much-esteemed pastor’s wife by what the people believe was a sorcerer. The town is about to snap, with tensions between the magical and non-magical communities.
And in the center of all this, is Matthew, whom Cassie finds irresistible. But can she trust him? According to Evan, no way. But then, Evan isn’t the most objective person when it comes to Cassie. Evan and Cassie have a history, as well as a secret connection, that keeps them bound in spite of themselves.
Will Cassie discover the real culprit or culprits behind the pastor’s wife’s murder, as well as the real face behind the anti-magical propaganda and demonstrations? Most importantly, will she wake up and see Matthew for who he really is…and find the courage to face Evan for what he did to her—when she finds out?
I love this series and thoroughly enjoyed this instalment! There’s something about Cassie’s voice that makes her really likable. She has a good heart and is witty, too. But best of all, she is just an ordinary girl next door trying to do her best in spite of everything that happens around her—which is usually pretty remarkable, as is often the case in paranormal stories.
Her relationship with Evan keeps evolving organically and there’s a major revelation in this book about their connection and the secret behind their rival families. Matthew is a great addition to this episode, adding tension with his charismatic personality and inciting sparks of jealousy from Evan. The conflict between the religious and the magical communities is also well done.
Mind Games kept me reading late into the night, wondering what would happen next. If you haven’t read any books in this series before, I urge you to pick up book one first, Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective. The books are best read in order. You won’t be disappointed.
May 5, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the first two novels in the Cassie Scot series. These are definitely best read in order as the story continues from book to book. I'm going to try keeping this review as spoiler-free as possible, but if you haven't read the first two books, I suggest picking those up. they really are great reads. Mind Games, the latest in the Cassie Scot series delivers nonstop action and great characters in an intriguing story that will keep the reader guessing until the end.
Cassie starts this novel in a dark place. She's missing Evan, though I think she's more angry than sad. I love Evan to death, but I get so sick of guys who cause problems with their inability to share important things. Out of the box I didn't like Matthew, can't imagine being in a relationship where I'd be unable to hide my thoughts from my partner. Besides, Cassie was acting so out of character with Matthew... I wanted to scream at her to open her eyes.
There's so much hate in Eagle Rock between the magical and non-magical residents. The crazy pastor at a local church uses his power of charisma to rile his parishioners into a witch hunting frenzy. Can you imagine people picketing in this day and age with signs calling for witches to burn at the stake?! The level of hate was exhausting at times, and I needed to take breaks from reading. Frankly, I don't know how Cassie didn't just crumble into a weepy mess.
Constant intrigue and action kept the plot moving at a quick pace. Once again Cassie manages to overcome despite her lack of magical abilities. I was so proud of her actions at the end. She is truly a remarkable character. The relationship and balance between Evan and Cassie is heart wrenching. I want them to be together and yet it seems they face insurmountable obstacles. If you've already read the first two Cassie books, you'll love Mind Games. If you haven't... what are you waiting for??
I loved the first two novels in the Cassie Scot series. These are definitely best read in order as the story continues from book to book. I'm going to try keeping this review as spoiler-free as possible, but if you haven't read the first two books, I suggest picking those up. they really are great reads. Mind Games, the latest in the Cassie Scot series delivers nonstop action and great characters in an intriguing story that will keep the reader guessing until the end.
Cassie starts this novel in a dark place. She's missing Evan, though I think she's more angry than sad. I love Evan to death, but I get so sick of guys who cause problems with their inability to share important things. Out of the box I didn't like Matthew, can't imagine being in a relationship where I'd be unable to hide my thoughts from my partner. Besides, Cassie was acting so out of character with Matthew... I wanted to scream at her to open her eyes.
There's so much hate in Eagle Rock between the magical and non-magical residents. The crazy pastor at a local church uses his power of charisma to rile his parishioners into a witch hunting frenzy. Can you imagine people picketing in this day and age with signs calling for witches to burn at the stake?! The level of hate was exhausting at times, and I needed to take breaks from reading. Frankly, I don't know how Cassie didn't just crumble into a weepy mess.
Constant intrigue and action kept the plot moving at a quick pace. Once again Cassie manages to overcome despite her lack of magical abilities. I was so proud of her actions at the end. She is truly a remarkable character. The relationship and balance between Evan and Cassie is heart wrenching. I want them to be together and yet it seems they face insurmountable obstacles. If you've already read the first two Cassie books, you'll love Mind Games. If you haven't... what are you waiting for??
May 11, 2014
Mind Games by Christine Amsden is a 2014 Twilight Times publication.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Evan breaks things off with Cassie after he learns a shocking secret that changes the entire dynamic between them. He can barely cope with the knowledge himself and he knows once Cassie finds out, things could never be the same between them. For all intents and purposes their relationship is done.
Cassie has no idea why Evan suddenly turned on her, but no matter what the reasons are, she's done playing games with him. A suspicious fire that kills the pastor's wife has the magical communtiy in an uproar. Cassie and her new partner, Wesley, are on the case and trying to keep the people in the community from letting their emotions override their common sense. She doesn't have time to think of Evan.. and besides that, Matthew Blair has developed an interest in Cassie. Although she is very cautious around Matthew it's not long before she finds herself leaning on his protection. Are her feelings for Matthew real or is she being manipulated? And why, oh why does Evan INSIST on protecting her all the time?
In the previous installment of this series, we get an idea of why Cassie's family has such an animosity towards Evan's family. This book leaves us with no doubts whatsoever as to why they feel that way. The big secret is finally out of the bag and it's just terrible. Imagine if you had wealth your entire life and thought the money was yours. Then you found out it didn't belong to you after all. The person it belongs to wants it back. How would you feel? Well, this situation is even worse . Evan has had magical abilities since birth. He doesn't know any other way of life. To lose it would be a physically painful process of transferring it to someone else. But, that isn't what scares him. What scares him is that his magical abilities are a part of who he is, it's what has defined him his whole life. How could he possibly make such an adjustment? Cassie doesn't know any of this as the story opens. She's in the dark , just like she has been from the beginning. Although Cassie hasn't the magical abilities her family and many others in the community has, she is one smart cookie. it won't take her long to figure it out and when she does...
Well it's a conundrum. Cassie does want her birthright- it is rightfully hers after all. Wouldn't you? Cassie has been scorned her entire life because she doesn't have magical abilities. Now it looks as if that wasn't just some fluke. For the first time in her life Cassie could stop feeling like an outsider. This is something she has longed for more than one could possibly imagine. It's the reason she is in constant need of protection, because she doesn't have the abilities she should have. With all that big drama going on, the case of the pastor's wife dying in the fire takes on a life of it's own. The pastor and his church blame the death on sorcery causing a panic and emotions to run high. Some in the community have decided to take advantage of that situation. Cassie could find herself a pawn in deadly game, especially since her new boyfriend is a powerful mind reader.
This series just keeps getting better. I know, I said that after I finished the last book, but this one was just as good. I could understand Evan's feelings, although I was rooting for Cassie. I think Cassie is really the stronger one of the two. Don't you? She has lived with this issue her whole life and is better equipped to handle it than Evan. However, if I had suffered all that Cassie had, I would want what was rightfully mine to begin with. The really sad thing is this has caused two people who love each other to have to end their relationship.
The tensions are high and the danger level is off the charts as Cassie absorbs one shock after another. This is a great mystery novel, there is humor , love, emotions, good and bad people and the still emerging strength of Cassie who continues to amaze . I loved it! This one is an A++ (5 stars)
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Evan breaks things off with Cassie after he learns a shocking secret that changes the entire dynamic between them. He can barely cope with the knowledge himself and he knows once Cassie finds out, things could never be the same between them. For all intents and purposes their relationship is done.
Cassie has no idea why Evan suddenly turned on her, but no matter what the reasons are, she's done playing games with him. A suspicious fire that kills the pastor's wife has the magical communtiy in an uproar. Cassie and her new partner, Wesley, are on the case and trying to keep the people in the community from letting their emotions override their common sense. She doesn't have time to think of Evan.. and besides that, Matthew Blair has developed an interest in Cassie. Although she is very cautious around Matthew it's not long before she finds herself leaning on his protection. Are her feelings for Matthew real or is she being manipulated? And why, oh why does Evan INSIST on protecting her all the time?
In the previous installment of this series, we get an idea of why Cassie's family has such an animosity towards Evan's family. This book leaves us with no doubts whatsoever as to why they feel that way. The big secret is finally out of the bag and it's just terrible. Imagine if you had wealth your entire life and thought the money was yours. Then you found out it didn't belong to you after all. The person it belongs to wants it back. How would you feel? Well, this situation is even worse . Evan has had magical abilities since birth. He doesn't know any other way of life. To lose it would be a physically painful process of transferring it to someone else. But, that isn't what scares him. What scares him is that his magical abilities are a part of who he is, it's what has defined him his whole life. How could he possibly make such an adjustment? Cassie doesn't know any of this as the story opens. She's in the dark , just like she has been from the beginning. Although Cassie hasn't the magical abilities her family and many others in the community has, she is one smart cookie. it won't take her long to figure it out and when she does...
Well it's a conundrum. Cassie does want her birthright- it is rightfully hers after all. Wouldn't you? Cassie has been scorned her entire life because she doesn't have magical abilities. Now it looks as if that wasn't just some fluke. For the first time in her life Cassie could stop feeling like an outsider. This is something she has longed for more than one could possibly imagine. It's the reason she is in constant need of protection, because she doesn't have the abilities she should have. With all that big drama going on, the case of the pastor's wife dying in the fire takes on a life of it's own. The pastor and his church blame the death on sorcery causing a panic and emotions to run high. Some in the community have decided to take advantage of that situation. Cassie could find herself a pawn in deadly game, especially since her new boyfriend is a powerful mind reader.
This series just keeps getting better. I know, I said that after I finished the last book, but this one was just as good. I could understand Evan's feelings, although I was rooting for Cassie. I think Cassie is really the stronger one of the two. Don't you? She has lived with this issue her whole life and is better equipped to handle it than Evan. However, if I had suffered all that Cassie had, I would want what was rightfully mine to begin with. The really sad thing is this has caused two people who love each other to have to end their relationship.
The tensions are high and the danger level is off the charts as Cassie absorbs one shock after another. This is a great mystery novel, there is humor , love, emotions, good and bad people and the still emerging strength of Cassie who continues to amaze . I loved it! This one is an A++ (5 stars)
May 27, 2014
Third in the Cassie Scot, Normal Detective series, Mind Games ups the ante of the overarching story with Cassie, broken-hearted, falling for a powerful mind-mage, while Evan, the cause of her heart-break, still strives to get her back.
When the pastor’s home burns, locals turn against the witches in their midst, quoting the Bible and lighting fires. Condemnation overrides kindness, and their ire might burn even those who are merely guilty by association. But Cassie’s job is to find out how and why the first fire was set. Her mind-mage friend works secretly to calm the storm, while Evan works with a powerful new magician who plans to unite all of magic under one government.
Big government, didactic churches, love, rejection, betrayal—it’s a heady mix, well-brewed and scarily told. There’s just the right amount of serious soul-searching in this novel to leave readers wondering how easily societies start to fall apart. Then there’s action and relationships, an excellent underlying mystery, good police work, wonderful characters, magical and otherwise, and ideas that invite serious thought...
The novel would stand alone quite well, but readers would be well advised to start at the beginning. With so much going on, it’s clear now this series has beginning, middle and end. Now, as the end-game approaches. I’m eager for book four!
Disclosure: I’m hosting the author on her blog tour and was given a free ecopy for review.
When the pastor’s home burns, locals turn against the witches in their midst, quoting the Bible and lighting fires. Condemnation overrides kindness, and their ire might burn even those who are merely guilty by association. But Cassie’s job is to find out how and why the first fire was set. Her mind-mage friend works secretly to calm the storm, while Evan works with a powerful new magician who plans to unite all of magic under one government.
Big government, didactic churches, love, rejection, betrayal—it’s a heady mix, well-brewed and scarily told. There’s just the right amount of serious soul-searching in this novel to leave readers wondering how easily societies start to fall apart. Then there’s action and relationships, an excellent underlying mystery, good police work, wonderful characters, magical and otherwise, and ideas that invite serious thought...
The novel would stand alone quite well, but readers would be well advised to start at the beginning. With so much going on, it’s clear now this series has beginning, middle and end. Now, as the end-game approaches. I’m eager for book four!
Disclosure: I’m hosting the author on her blog tour and was given a free ecopy for review.
February 21, 2017
After the intensely emotional roller coaster of Secrets and Lies, I had no idea what the third installment in this series would reveal about Cassie's life. This book picked up right where the second one left off, and pulled me right back into the emotional turmoil between Cassie and Evan.
With the addition of a few new characters, this dramatic story gets even more twisted and intense. Matthew is a character I really wanted to like, but in the end, it just made me like Evan even more. I felt so bad for Cassie, getting pulled in so many directions, and having to deal with so many different tricks and manipulations.
The writing is just as good as the first two books, and easily drew me into the world Cassie lives in. The ending left me even more hopeful for a reunion between Cassie and Evan, and I am looking forward to seeing how this drama ends. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who's read the first two in the series, but only if you're prepared to read the fourth book as well!
*I was given an eCopy of this book, from the author, to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2014
***I was gifted a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review***
The Cassie Scot novels are easily one of my favourite series. Each book has a mixture of action, romance, mystery and suspense. I love a good story and not one of these books has let me down yet.
If you haven't read books 1 & 2 then there's no point in reading this book. These books need to be read in the correct order so you know who is who and what is what.
'Mind Games' brings us into Cassie Scot's life once again and things have changed quite a bit: Evan dumped Cassie and she's no closer to understanding why. He's adamant that he still wants to protect her and Cassie is equally as adamant that she doesn't need his protection.
Enter Matthew into the mix and Cassie has herself somewhat of a love triangle. Chuck in a couple of murders, a pastor who preaches hatred for magic users and Cassie finds her hands very full.
The main thing I love about Christine Amsden's books is that the woman gives you a STORY. 'Mind Games' drags you in so that you worry about characters and what's happening to them. There are moments that are heart stopping. One part even had me doing an impression of Rachael Green's (Friends) 'Noooooooooooo!'
I am now an avid fan and I honestly cannot wait to read the next part. This series hooked me from the start and book three cemented my love for Cassie's character. Another 5 Shamrocks from me with the hopes that book 4 can keep up the excellent work :D
The Cassie Scot novels are easily one of my favourite series. Each book has a mixture of action, romance, mystery and suspense. I love a good story and not one of these books has let me down yet.
If you haven't read books 1 & 2 then there's no point in reading this book. These books need to be read in the correct order so you know who is who and what is what.
'Mind Games' brings us into Cassie Scot's life once again and things have changed quite a bit: Evan dumped Cassie and she's no closer to understanding why. He's adamant that he still wants to protect her and Cassie is equally as adamant that she doesn't need his protection.
Enter Matthew into the mix and Cassie has herself somewhat of a love triangle. Chuck in a couple of murders, a pastor who preaches hatred for magic users and Cassie finds her hands very full.
The main thing I love about Christine Amsden's books is that the woman gives you a STORY. 'Mind Games' drags you in so that you worry about characters and what's happening to them. There are moments that are heart stopping. One part even had me doing an impression of Rachael Green's (Friends) 'Noooooooooooo!'
I am now an avid fan and I honestly cannot wait to read the next part. This series hooked me from the start and book three cemented my love for Cassie's character. Another 5 Shamrocks from me with the hopes that book 4 can keep up the excellent work :D
October 31, 2019
I don't know. I'm seriously torn on this series. I like Cassie and the actual writing/tone of the books (I really do.) and the narrator is great. But I'm just constantly frustrated with the decisions Cassie and the author make. The last book had me all but enraged and this one didn't. But I just wasn't happy either. I'm sick of the constant reminder that women are sexually enslaved as breeding stock (and the endless stream of men trying to get Cassie for this reason), can't figure out why only women are ever spoken of being drained of magic (seems to me it would work just as well on men), and the Cassie never pushes for the information I want her to or tells people the things I think they should know.
[SPOILER] I mean, I really feel like that if she had a true heart to heart where she told Evan how much it hurt her to not have her magic and see him refuse to give it back, I feel like he'd relent. But she asked once, didn't push and didn't tell him her actual feelings. Similarly, I feel like her family sold her out AGAIN in this book, but she never said a word about that. It's so frustrating to repeatedly watch her walk away with things unaddressed.
Having said all that, I really do like her. I like that she's gaining strength, even without her power. I like that she protects people. And I like the side characters. I just find the decisions she makes and the plot lines the author utilizes frustrating as hell.
[SPOILER] I mean, I really feel like that if she had a true heart to heart where she told Evan how much it hurt her to not have her magic and see him refuse to give it back, I feel like he'd relent. But she asked once, didn't push and didn't tell him her actual feelings. Similarly, I feel like her family sold her out AGAIN in this book, but she never said a word about that. It's so frustrating to repeatedly watch her walk away with things unaddressed.
Having said all that, I really do like her. I like that she's gaining strength, even without her power. I like that she protects people. And I like the side characters. I just find the decisions she makes and the plot lines the author utilizes frustrating as hell.
June 12, 2014
Disclosure: I received a review copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
Mind Games is the highly anticipated third book in the Cassie Scot series. In the same vein as the previous two books, Mind Games start off with a bang and continues that way till the end. The action starts immediately from the moment readers open the book, with a murder involving the McClellan, one of Eagle Rock Magical family, a pastor on a witch hunt and an out of town sorcerer new to Eagle Rock with the hope of unifying the magical community all across the continent. And like before, Cassie is on the case for every problem that pops up in Eagle Rock, whether it is magic related or not.
Mind Games had so many plots going on at once that I wonder how Amsden kept everything straight! There was a lot happening in the Magic community, as a new sorcerer comes to town promising to create a legal and fair governing system for anyone with an ounce of magic…but the magical families of Eagle Rock built their home/lives in the town for precisely one reason, freedom; to live their life by their rules and no one else (human and nonhuman alike). Then on the human front, a pastor who has been preaching against magical folks for year is finally acting on his word when he accuses witches of killing his wife when she dies in a fire. He riles up his parishioners and the community to boycott the witches in the town, and goes even farther by suggesting the witches to be burn at the stake like in the medieval times! The hypocrisy of the entire situation was kind of annoying, especially when readers find out the pastor’s somewhat relations to one of the magical family and as man of god, how can he condone violence against the unprovoked, and the women and children?
There were a lot of old and new characters introduced this time around. For the old characters, readers learn something new that they didn’t already know in the previous books, and it’s like peeling an onion as we get to see the different layers of the characters. I enjoyed seeing glimpses of each of the magical family as well because while they are all powerful they are very different from one another. In the book, Cassie’s boss gives her a task of interviewing all of the magical family in regards to McClellan’s murder, and in the short interactions she had with the families, readers learn a lot of history between the families; especially with the Blairs, Blackwood and Cassie’s family the Scots.
With the recent breakup with Evan, Cassie has two ‘new’ men in her life, one a partner and another love interest. Cassie’s new partner is an out of Towner who transferred from St. Louis. I knew something was off when Wesley showed up in Cassie’s life but I couldn’t put my finger on it…and when the big reveal came at the end I was super surprised because like Cassie, I should have seen it coming from a mile away LOL. Then we have the love interest who happens to be Matthew Blair, a sorcerer and a councilman. Matthew, I’m sure, rubbed everyone the wrong way, his character just screamed scumbag. I wasn’t keen on the addition of his character because it created a weird love triangle (using this term loosely, as it isn’t really a love triangle, but felt almost like one) And like Cassie’s family and friends suggested is bad news. Matthew is a mind mage, meaning he can hear anyone’s thought and can influence one’s action without them knowing.
All in all, Mind Games was another stellar addition to the series. I swear each book just gets better and better! You’d think with a series with books written less than 5-6 months apart that it wouldn’t be as good or well written as say the first book, but it is definitely not the case with Amsden. Amsden is a talent writer that knows her craft. If you enjoy character driven novels and amazing strong female protagonists (that don’t necessarily need magic to be kick-ass) then you seriously NEED to pick this series up, I guarantee you will not regret it! I can’t wait to read the final installment in the Cassie Scot series, especially since reader are left with another shocking ending (not really a cliff-hanger); crossing my fingers that Evan and Cassie gets a happy ending!
Mind Games is the highly anticipated third book in the Cassie Scot series. In the same vein as the previous two books, Mind Games start off with a bang and continues that way till the end. The action starts immediately from the moment readers open the book, with a murder involving the McClellan, one of Eagle Rock Magical family, a pastor on a witch hunt and an out of town sorcerer new to Eagle Rock with the hope of unifying the magical community all across the continent. And like before, Cassie is on the case for every problem that pops up in Eagle Rock, whether it is magic related or not.
Mind Games had so many plots going on at once that I wonder how Amsden kept everything straight! There was a lot happening in the Magic community, as a new sorcerer comes to town promising to create a legal and fair governing system for anyone with an ounce of magic…but the magical families of Eagle Rock built their home/lives in the town for precisely one reason, freedom; to live their life by their rules and no one else (human and nonhuman alike). Then on the human front, a pastor who has been preaching against magical folks for year is finally acting on his word when he accuses witches of killing his wife when she dies in a fire. He riles up his parishioners and the community to boycott the witches in the town, and goes even farther by suggesting the witches to be burn at the stake like in the medieval times! The hypocrisy of the entire situation was kind of annoying, especially when readers find out the pastor’s somewhat relations to one of the magical family and as man of god, how can he condone violence against the unprovoked, and the women and children?
There were a lot of old and new characters introduced this time around. For the old characters, readers learn something new that they didn’t already know in the previous books, and it’s like peeling an onion as we get to see the different layers of the characters. I enjoyed seeing glimpses of each of the magical family as well because while they are all powerful they are very different from one another. In the book, Cassie’s boss gives her a task of interviewing all of the magical family in regards to McClellan’s murder, and in the short interactions she had with the families, readers learn a lot of history between the families; especially with the Blairs, Blackwood and Cassie’s family the Scots.
With the recent breakup with Evan, Cassie has two ‘new’ men in her life, one a partner and another love interest. Cassie’s new partner is an out of Towner who transferred from St. Louis. I knew something was off when Wesley showed up in Cassie’s life but I couldn’t put my finger on it…and when the big reveal came at the end I was super surprised because like Cassie, I should have seen it coming from a mile away LOL. Then we have the love interest who happens to be Matthew Blair, a sorcerer and a councilman. Matthew, I’m sure, rubbed everyone the wrong way, his character just screamed scumbag. I wasn’t keen on the addition of his character because it created a weird love triangle (using this term loosely, as it isn’t really a love triangle, but felt almost like one) And like Cassie’s family and friends suggested is bad news. Matthew is a mind mage, meaning he can hear anyone’s thought and can influence one’s action without them knowing.
All in all, Mind Games was another stellar addition to the series. I swear each book just gets better and better! You’d think with a series with books written less than 5-6 months apart that it wouldn’t be as good or well written as say the first book, but it is definitely not the case with Amsden. Amsden is a talent writer that knows her craft. If you enjoy character driven novels and amazing strong female protagonists (that don’t necessarily need magic to be kick-ass) then you seriously NEED to pick this series up, I guarantee you will not regret it! I can’t wait to read the final installment in the Cassie Scot series, especially since reader are left with another shocking ending (not really a cliff-hanger); crossing my fingers that Evan and Cassie gets a happy ending!
May 9, 2014
I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.
Mind Games starts out with action right from the very beginning with Evan who is Cassie Scot's friend. Evan is trying to save a young woman from a group of magical beings and to keep them from using her as a human sacrifice. Evan has his hands full trying to get through all of the magical beings when he runs into a vampire and is wondering why a vampire is there with them but he has no time to dwell on that fact while trying to stay alive. While Evan is fighting with these people Cassie's cousin Jason a vampire himself shows up to help Evan with his battle. Somehow while fighting with these people Evan has time to think about his friend Cassie and the wrong he has done to her. He feels bad and wants to tell her but has not had the nerve as of yet to tell her. And the guilt is eating him alive.
Cassie has had a lot of heart break in her short life span. Cassie's family all have magical powers of some sort except Cassie herself. Cassie's Dad broke her heart by disowning her and throwing her out of the house. Cassie and two of her best friends Kaitlin and Madison have moved in together. Kaitlin is pregnant with Cassie's cousin Jason's baby and Kaitlin is always upset because he left her and she believes that her baby will grow up without a father like she did. Her other friend Madison is dating Cassie's brother and they have a lot of fun together even though Nicolas is a few years younger than Madison. But Nicolas is very good for Madison. She needs someone in her life like Nicolas who can show her how to laugh and have a good time. She needs someone to show her how to be happy since her father threw her out as well. Cassie tries very hard to help Madison and Kaitlin with their problems. She also tries to help take care of all of her brothers and sisters as well. She tries so hard to take care of everyone else that she hardly has anytime left for Cassie. So they all three make for good friends. They are all always trying to help the other to be happy and help each other get over losing the love of the life.
A new guy Matthew who can read people's mind has taken an interest in Cassie and wants to spend time with her. Cassie is not sure she can trust anyone who can read her mind or if she wants to trust him. But she kind of likes him and is attracted to him so she decides why not go out with him and give it a chance. Evan has left town and took her heart with him not to mention the fact that he broke it before he left. So now she figures she may as well get on with her life and try to not feel the hurt that is in her heart. Dwelling on it is not going to get her anywhere. If she keeps dwelling on it, it is just going to cause her more and more hurt.
Cassie finds out that her best friend since childhood and now her ex-boyfriend has something that belongs to her and refuses to give it back to her. He broke her heart when he broke off their relationship and left town for a few weeks. Evan is so very much in love with her and Cassie loved him just as much or more but now that she has found out that he has something that belongs to her and will not give it back. Cassie's heart is crushed all over again but Evan is not the only one that has taken her heart out and stomped on it. There are other people in her life that she loves very much that had a hand in Evan having what belongs to her.
Mind Games is filled with so much suspense and mystery from the very first page until the very last page. Half the time I didn't know what was going on but that is not a bad thing that is a good thing. When you don't know what is going on in a book just means that the author is a very good writer that knows how to keep her readers wanting more and wanting to keep on reading because you just got to know what is going happen next. The Cassie Scot series is one of the best series around. I have truly enjoyed reading each and every one of them and can't or hope I get to read more of Cassie's adventures.
Mind Games starts out with action right from the very beginning with Evan who is Cassie Scot's friend. Evan is trying to save a young woman from a group of magical beings and to keep them from using her as a human sacrifice. Evan has his hands full trying to get through all of the magical beings when he runs into a vampire and is wondering why a vampire is there with them but he has no time to dwell on that fact while trying to stay alive. While Evan is fighting with these people Cassie's cousin Jason a vampire himself shows up to help Evan with his battle. Somehow while fighting with these people Evan has time to think about his friend Cassie and the wrong he has done to her. He feels bad and wants to tell her but has not had the nerve as of yet to tell her. And the guilt is eating him alive.
Cassie has had a lot of heart break in her short life span. Cassie's family all have magical powers of some sort except Cassie herself. Cassie's Dad broke her heart by disowning her and throwing her out of the house. Cassie and two of her best friends Kaitlin and Madison have moved in together. Kaitlin is pregnant with Cassie's cousin Jason's baby and Kaitlin is always upset because he left her and she believes that her baby will grow up without a father like she did. Her other friend Madison is dating Cassie's brother and they have a lot of fun together even though Nicolas is a few years younger than Madison. But Nicolas is very good for Madison. She needs someone in her life like Nicolas who can show her how to laugh and have a good time. She needs someone to show her how to be happy since her father threw her out as well. Cassie tries very hard to help Madison and Kaitlin with their problems. She also tries to help take care of all of her brothers and sisters as well. She tries so hard to take care of everyone else that she hardly has anytime left for Cassie. So they all three make for good friends. They are all always trying to help the other to be happy and help each other get over losing the love of the life.
A new guy Matthew who can read people's mind has taken an interest in Cassie and wants to spend time with her. Cassie is not sure she can trust anyone who can read her mind or if she wants to trust him. But she kind of likes him and is attracted to him so she decides why not go out with him and give it a chance. Evan has left town and took her heart with him not to mention the fact that he broke it before he left. So now she figures she may as well get on with her life and try to not feel the hurt that is in her heart. Dwelling on it is not going to get her anywhere. If she keeps dwelling on it, it is just going to cause her more and more hurt.
Cassie finds out that her best friend since childhood and now her ex-boyfriend has something that belongs to her and refuses to give it back to her. He broke her heart when he broke off their relationship and left town for a few weeks. Evan is so very much in love with her and Cassie loved him just as much or more but now that she has found out that he has something that belongs to her and will not give it back. Cassie's heart is crushed all over again but Evan is not the only one that has taken her heart out and stomped on it. There are other people in her life that she loves very much that had a hand in Evan having what belongs to her.
Mind Games is filled with so much suspense and mystery from the very first page until the very last page. Half the time I didn't know what was going on but that is not a bad thing that is a good thing. When you don't know what is going on in a book just means that the author is a very good writer that knows how to keep her readers wanting more and wanting to keep on reading because you just got to know what is going happen next. The Cassie Scot series is one of the best series around. I have truly enjoyed reading each and every one of them and can't or hope I get to read more of Cassie's adventures.
May 23, 2014
wow just wow. I was left speechless many times over in this addition of the Cassie Scot series. I did not think Christine Amsden could shock me or get more of a rise from me but boy I was wrong. This book has so many things going on but it all leads to what we all want and hope for Evan and Cassie together. Oops wait hold the phone..we want and hope buuttt yeah due to the cliffy not nice by the way. A not nice way to have us hang so deliciously evil but this was still a magically delicious read.
I am left with some questions which is great because if a book that is not a stand alone or not the last in the series doesn't have you wondering things than it's not doing you the reader justice and isn't do its job. This book has that and a jaw dropper. I am team Evan and for Kaitlin team Jason. Just so you know. I want Nicolas with Madison but that one is on the way so we won't rock the boat.
So Cassie has a love interest besides Evan in this book. Yup couldn't believe it. I was not a happy camper but could understand I mean with how Evan left off the last book it's understandable. Not likeable but understandable. This love interest is a political bigwig and from a powerful mind mage family and his name is Matthew Blair. It goes pretty far in the few weeks they are together mind you others are skeptical but Cassie is a wee bit stubborn in this case especially with the meddling protection evan did at times.
Evan still loves Cassie and I think Cassie loves Evan especially after the secret is revealed that sent Evan away and how she feels he betrayed her. I am still trying to figure out how he was the one who did the pain to her. he was a victim too. But she does put that aside in the end to help him which gives him hope until yes until Matthew shows at his door with the jaw dropper ending..but what makes that ending more freaky is before that was admitted you have her consenting to something so it gets you wondering is that real or what all want people to think. I wonder.
than we have jason. Cassie's cousin who Kaitlin is having a child with. But everyone believes he is a rogue vampire hunter who is a vampire. We get a jaw dropper here as well. I am still wondering why? Hope this is answered in the next book.
Let's not forget Madison and her father and this sudden interest leaves me wondering once it is revealed why he is there in her life again some things. Again left hanging. Such a vixon you are Ms. Amsden. A wonderful evil cliffy master vixon.
And Evan's wonderful gramma. such a sweet thing. Her rooting for Evan and Cassie warms my heart but her offer to Cassie wow. Oh and the church who was the one thwarting and inciting them really? I mean all of a sudden after so many years they go bonkers on their own accord. Not buying it.
Evan and his lengths to protect Cassie are so sweet. We see just how much he loves her but she isn't having it. We also see though that even though Matthew did something really not right he loves Cassie as well and both these guys are left hanging in the wind although Evan has hope after Cassie helping him. But ending with Evan and Matthew the way Ms. Amsden did was just pure evil genius.
The writing was incredible and even with all that was going on and all the jaw dropping revelations and cliffy's you want more. You need to know. Ms. Amsden has weaved a tale of love, deception, betrayal, a love triangle and possible redemption into a story that gives you hope and also leaves you wondering how things will end. A truly incredible book with some really amazingly genius and evil cliffys
March 11, 2014
I'm greatly enjoying the Cassie Scot series, and this third volume is another good entry. It didn't have a great moment equivalent to the previous book (Secrets and Lies), in which I pumped my fist and said "Yes!" out loud when Cassie won against overwhelming odds by being super-smart, but it did have plenty of good moments, and a pleasing amount of intricacy.
This is a series which you need to read from the beginning (Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective). There's not much recap, and each book builds directly on the events of the one before, so you won't understand what's going on if you start here. Fortunately, it's a series which is strong right from the first book, in which we're introduced to our urban-fantasy heroine: a young woman from a powerful magical family who lacks magic of her own, and has to compensate by being smarter than the more powerful people she goes up against.
Like many urban fantasies, it has a strong romance element, but unlike most urban fantasies with a strong romance element, it isn't silly, and nor is the heroine. It's also not full of explicit sex.
Yes, there is a love triangle in each book. Cassie and her childhood friend Evan are two points of the triangle, and the third point varies. However, a large part of the series' tension revolves around the fact that, for various excellent reasons, Cassie is not going to give in to her attraction for Evan. This is partly because she is a modern, independent-minded woman, and the magical community is stuck in the 19th century (if not earlier), treating women - especially women without power but with the potential to breed magical children - as chattels.
While Evan is more respectful than that, there are other (spoilerific) reasons why Cassie is not willing to accept his love for her. In fact, the reason changes in each book, which is a trick that's hard to do. This author isn't just writing the same book over and over, she's evolving the situation and the characters.
Nor is the romance subplot by any means all that is going on. Cassie is a sheriff's deputy, and investigates crimes with supernatural aspects, which means that she's always out of her depth and in danger. While she occasionally gets herself into trouble with the decisions she makes, she doesn't drive the plot primarily by doing stupid things, which is one of the issues that annoys me about so many urban fantasy heroines. And while Evan, and occasionally others, do rescue her from time to time, it's a significant plot point that she's able to rescue herself quite adequately.
In this particular book, the main and obvious antagonist is a hate-preaching pastor who has it in for the magical community. (The author takes pains to emphasize that this is an aberration, and not representative of all religious people, which I appreciated.) However, there are multiple threads of politics, interest groups, and individuals with agendas (often concealed, at least from Cassie), and the author weaves it all together into a highly satisfactory cloth.
The plotting and character development are sophisticated, well above the level I normally see, and are refreshingly free of urban fantasy cliches. I'm very pleased to have found this series, and look forward to future books.
This is a series which you need to read from the beginning (Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective). There's not much recap, and each book builds directly on the events of the one before, so you won't understand what's going on if you start here. Fortunately, it's a series which is strong right from the first book, in which we're introduced to our urban-fantasy heroine: a young woman from a powerful magical family who lacks magic of her own, and has to compensate by being smarter than the more powerful people she goes up against.
Like many urban fantasies, it has a strong romance element, but unlike most urban fantasies with a strong romance element, it isn't silly, and nor is the heroine. It's also not full of explicit sex.
Yes, there is a love triangle in each book. Cassie and her childhood friend Evan are two points of the triangle, and the third point varies. However, a large part of the series' tension revolves around the fact that, for various excellent reasons, Cassie is not going to give in to her attraction for Evan. This is partly because she is a modern, independent-minded woman, and the magical community is stuck in the 19th century (if not earlier), treating women - especially women without power but with the potential to breed magical children - as chattels.
While Evan is more respectful than that, there are other (spoilerific) reasons why Cassie is not willing to accept his love for her. In fact, the reason changes in each book, which is a trick that's hard to do. This author isn't just writing the same book over and over, she's evolving the situation and the characters.
Nor is the romance subplot by any means all that is going on. Cassie is a sheriff's deputy, and investigates crimes with supernatural aspects, which means that she's always out of her depth and in danger. While she occasionally gets herself into trouble with the decisions she makes, she doesn't drive the plot primarily by doing stupid things, which is one of the issues that annoys me about so many urban fantasy heroines. And while Evan, and occasionally others, do rescue her from time to time, it's a significant plot point that she's able to rescue herself quite adequately.
In this particular book, the main and obvious antagonist is a hate-preaching pastor who has it in for the magical community. (The author takes pains to emphasize that this is an aberration, and not representative of all religious people, which I appreciated.) However, there are multiple threads of politics, interest groups, and individuals with agendas (often concealed, at least from Cassie), and the author weaves it all together into a highly satisfactory cloth.
The plotting and character development are sophisticated, well above the level I normally see, and are refreshingly free of urban fantasy cliches. I'm very pleased to have found this series, and look forward to future books.
June 4, 2014
Originally posted on The Canon! {http://canireadeverything.blogspot.co...}
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion. Promise!
This review may contain minor spoilers. My review of books one and two of the series are available for those who want to catch up with the series!
There's just something about Cassie Scot.
Maybe it's her position as the only non-magical member of her supernaturally powerful family. Maybe it's her wreck of a love life. Maybe it's her stubborn determination to do the right thing, to help those who need it, or her knack for finding trouble.
Whatever it is, Cassie Scot's got it.
Cassie has grown tremendously over the series, evolving from a young woman who isn't sure (at all) of her place in the world to an adult confident enough to go find it. This constant growth makes Cassie one of the most fascinating heroines that I've read in a long time. As the series grows, Cassie must learn to rely on herself, but Mind Games presents a twist: Cassie has to depend on her inner strength to battle through things that are completely outside of her control.
I loved the depth and thought that went into the surrounding cast of characters in Mind Games, especially the villainous Pastor Roberts. Here is a man determined to bring Cassie down for being who she is, forcing her to make huge changes not only in the plot, but in her own character. Each character was deliberate and crucial in moving the plot forward, even those who stood on the sidelines for most of the novel.
The themes of acceptance and illusion versus reality brought a strong sense of life to Mind Games. Small towns are familiar settings for characters struggling to find their identity, but Amsden's magical twist keeps the pace moving quickly. The emphasis on acceptance and finding common ground in people that might otherwise look completely different to you touched me, especially in one of the last scenes in the elementary school.
There are so many different aspects to the main plot - mystery, romance, intrigue, and a touch of magic - that the story might feel cluttered. Instead, the narration smoothly weaves together the different plot lines to create this intriguing story that is nearly impossible to put down. Cassie's romantic life, friendships, and family problems all come into play in the main plot, making the story solidly stand on its own. I did hope that the plot would touch more on some story lines introduced in the past two novels (especially Jason, Cassie's vampire-hunter cousin), but those missing pieces were only a small flaw overall.
I really enjoy returning to Amsden's work over and over because she writes each installment as a solid story, each ending with a conclusion that will hold me over until her next book comes out. Each novel could be read as a stand-alone story if needed, something that I adore in a series.
THE VERDICT: I loved it. Cassie's magical small-town world is so intriguing and the plot kept me reading late into the night. I can't wait to read the next installment!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion. Promise!
This review may contain minor spoilers. My review of books one and two of the series are available for those who want to catch up with the series!
There's just something about Cassie Scot.
Maybe it's her position as the only non-magical member of her supernaturally powerful family. Maybe it's her wreck of a love life. Maybe it's her stubborn determination to do the right thing, to help those who need it, or her knack for finding trouble.
Whatever it is, Cassie Scot's got it.
Cassie has grown tremendously over the series, evolving from a young woman who isn't sure (at all) of her place in the world to an adult confident enough to go find it. This constant growth makes Cassie one of the most fascinating heroines that I've read in a long time. As the series grows, Cassie must learn to rely on herself, but Mind Games presents a twist: Cassie has to depend on her inner strength to battle through things that are completely outside of her control.
I loved the depth and thought that went into the surrounding cast of characters in Mind Games, especially the villainous Pastor Roberts. Here is a man determined to bring Cassie down for being who she is, forcing her to make huge changes not only in the plot, but in her own character. Each character was deliberate and crucial in moving the plot forward, even those who stood on the sidelines for most of the novel.
The themes of acceptance and illusion versus reality brought a strong sense of life to Mind Games. Small towns are familiar settings for characters struggling to find their identity, but Amsden's magical twist keeps the pace moving quickly. The emphasis on acceptance and finding common ground in people that might otherwise look completely different to you touched me, especially in one of the last scenes in the elementary school.
There are so many different aspects to the main plot - mystery, romance, intrigue, and a touch of magic - that the story might feel cluttered. Instead, the narration smoothly weaves together the different plot lines to create this intriguing story that is nearly impossible to put down. Cassie's romantic life, friendships, and family problems all come into play in the main plot, making the story solidly stand on its own. I did hope that the plot would touch more on some story lines introduced in the past two novels (especially Jason, Cassie's vampire-hunter cousin), but those missing pieces were only a small flaw overall.
I really enjoy returning to Amsden's work over and over because she writes each installment as a solid story, each ending with a conclusion that will hold me over until her next book comes out. Each novel could be read as a stand-alone story if needed, something that I adore in a series.
THE VERDICT: I loved it. Cassie's magical small-town world is so intriguing and the plot kept me reading late into the night. I can't wait to read the next installment!
April 23, 2014
Amsden sets the books in a small town full of grudges, double-dealing, selfishness, and cycles of revenge: imagine the Hatfields and McCoys, with a third family that hates them both, and a fourth family that hates the fifth but allies itself with the McCoys, losely speaking. Against this backdrop, it seems promising that Alexander DuPris comes to town proposing an objective national governing body that would settle disputes and find justice for those wronged by magic practitioners.
The need for judicial governance among the gifted and the magical has become an obvious need in light of discoveries in the previous novels about magical rape and enslavement of drained women as breeding stock. Once magic has been ripped away from a person, it is gone. The last book handed out some big revelations about characters affected personally by the slave trade.
The repercussions of this and DuPris' quest for objective magical governance isn't the only plot thread in the book; indeed, it runs mostly in the background while Cassie and other members of the magical community become the focus of hate crimes by an extremist congregation, burning supposed witches and even inciting violence among children.
Amsden writes well, and Eagle Rock is a well-constructed narrative community. A key message of this book is that Cassie doesn't need magic to be a strong and independent woman. Yet I have a hard time accepting what amounts to sexual assault and the overpowering of a woman's free will. The lack of repentance or justice for men who don't understand that "no" means no is disturbing.
The need for judicial governance among the gifted and the magical has become an obvious need in light of discoveries in the previous novels about magical rape and enslavement of drained women as breeding stock. Once magic has been ripped away from a person, it is gone. The last book handed out some big revelations about characters affected personally by the slave trade.
The repercussions of this and DuPris' quest for objective magical governance isn't the only plot thread in the book; indeed, it runs mostly in the background while Cassie and other members of the magical community become the focus of hate crimes by an extremist congregation, burning supposed witches and even inciting violence among children.
Amsden writes well, and Eagle Rock is a well-constructed narrative community. A key message of this book is that Cassie doesn't need magic to be a strong and independent woman. Yet I have a hard time accepting what amounts to sexual assault and the overpowering of a woman's free will. The lack of repentance or justice for men who don't understand that "no" means no is disturbing.
June 3, 2014
**** Review Originally Posted at
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
I was really excited when I was asked if I wanted to review Mind Games by Christine Amsden. I had already read the first two books in her "Cassie Scot" series, and couldn't wait to get my hands on this third installation. And I'm happy to say that Amsden did not disappoint.
For those of you who have also followed along on the Cassie Scot journey with me, I'll let you know this right away – there isn't a lot of Cassie and Evan interaction to cling on to. As someone who definitely shipped these two (regardless of the many problems they have to work out), I was a little disappointed that I didn't get many scenes between them. I missed their back and forth banter and the bond that they obviously have, but I was still able to enjoy the book.
Evan is still dealing with a secret that he learned in the last book (that I won't spoil for you, you'll just have to catch up on this series!), and is trying to keep his distance from Cassie. Of course, Cassie doesn't take too kindly to this forced separation, and is trying to figure out what went wrong and when. Since Cassie Scot is nothing if she's not a detective, she slowly starts to piece together the clues toward Evan's behavior and tries to come up with the reason why he left.
While the town Eagle Rock where Cassie lives has always been home to sorcerers, and the non-magical folk have more or less come to terms with magic among them, that isn't so much the case in this story. Tensions between magic users and non-users are at an all time high here, and things are geared to explode at the slightest provocation. This level of tension was great for the book. It made sure that the reader was always on the edge of his or her seat, because we never know what's going to happen. The thing with mob mentality is that it's chaotic, and you never know what actions the mob will take next.
A lot of this book deals with Cassie's internal struggle. I think we get a lot more of her thoughts than we did in the first two, as she has so many personal problems that she is trying to sort out. Not only does she have to deal with all of the regular drama, but she's also dating a new sorcerer, Matthew, who brings concerns all of his own to the table.
As always, I highly recommend the Cassie Scot books. If you haven't started reading this series yet and you like mystery as well as paranormal, you should really start. The characters are well thought out and all have their own personalities and quirks, and the stories are interesting from beginning to end.
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
I was really excited when I was asked if I wanted to review Mind Games by Christine Amsden. I had already read the first two books in her "Cassie Scot" series, and couldn't wait to get my hands on this third installation. And I'm happy to say that Amsden did not disappoint.
For those of you who have also followed along on the Cassie Scot journey with me, I'll let you know this right away – there isn't a lot of Cassie and Evan interaction to cling on to. As someone who definitely shipped these two (regardless of the many problems they have to work out), I was a little disappointed that I didn't get many scenes between them. I missed their back and forth banter and the bond that they obviously have, but I was still able to enjoy the book.
Evan is still dealing with a secret that he learned in the last book (that I won't spoil for you, you'll just have to catch up on this series!), and is trying to keep his distance from Cassie. Of course, Cassie doesn't take too kindly to this forced separation, and is trying to figure out what went wrong and when. Since Cassie Scot is nothing if she's not a detective, she slowly starts to piece together the clues toward Evan's behavior and tries to come up with the reason why he left.
While the town Eagle Rock where Cassie lives has always been home to sorcerers, and the non-magical folk have more or less come to terms with magic among them, that isn't so much the case in this story. Tensions between magic users and non-users are at an all time high here, and things are geared to explode at the slightest provocation. This level of tension was great for the book. It made sure that the reader was always on the edge of his or her seat, because we never know what's going to happen. The thing with mob mentality is that it's chaotic, and you never know what actions the mob will take next.
A lot of this book deals with Cassie's internal struggle. I think we get a lot more of her thoughts than we did in the first two, as she has so many personal problems that she is trying to sort out. Not only does she have to deal with all of the regular drama, but she's also dating a new sorcerer, Matthew, who brings concerns all of his own to the table.
As always, I highly recommend the Cassie Scot books. If you haven't started reading this series yet and you like mystery as well as paranormal, you should really start. The characters are well thought out and all have their own personalities and quirks, and the stories are interesting from beginning to end.
May 21, 2014
Please note that my review of Book 3 will most likely contain Book 1 and Book 2 spoilers.
Cassie Scot and her completely non-normal life just keeps getting more and more complicated. Evan leaves town for the summer which angers Cassie more than her parents have. There is definite love between Evan and Cassie but the events that have unfolded in previous novels keep cupid from truly hitting his mark. As Cassie is trying to move on with her life, Matthew, a mind mage, makes a move on her and she whole heartedly accepts his request to date.
Not all of Mind Games is about Cassie's love life, however. Cassie and her new partner, Wesley, are on the case to solve the murder of a magic user from Book 2 and are getting absolutely nowhere at first. No one is being cooperative and as she interviews several people, Cassie discovers that there's no love lost for the murder victim.
Meanwhile, the local pastor of Eagle Rock is doing everything in his power to turn the mundane residents against any magical person or their associates. There is a lot of action between the human townsfolk and the practitioners and none of it is good. The level of hate is extremely high but the author does a great job of getting her point across and actually incorporating true life lessons into her novel.
As you reach the end of the non-stop action-filled 3rd installment of the Cassie Scot series, truths will be uncovered, secrets revealed, and lives will be forever changed.
The author did an excellent job writing the entire novel. The dialogue was fluid and smooth and all of the characters were likable in their own way - even the not-so-nice characters. Cassie's character is very strong and competent. She's able to figure out how to take care of and protect herself while unable to manifest anything magical. She's still conflicted when it comes to her relationship with Evan, even while dating another. We are introduced to new characters in this novel and Ms. Amsden does a fantastic job of letting us get to know them at the proper level and yet, at the same time, makes sure to give all of the staple characters enough face time. The characters in the Cassie Scot series are easy to relate to, have deep layers, and are emotional.
I highly recommend this series!
I absolutely could not put this book down!!!
Review copy courtesy of the author, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review.
Cassie Scot and her completely non-normal life just keeps getting more and more complicated. Evan leaves town for the summer which angers Cassie more than her parents have. There is definite love between Evan and Cassie but the events that have unfolded in previous novels keep cupid from truly hitting his mark. As Cassie is trying to move on with her life, Matthew, a mind mage, makes a move on her and she whole heartedly accepts his request to date.
Not all of Mind Games is about Cassie's love life, however. Cassie and her new partner, Wesley, are on the case to solve the murder of a magic user from Book 2 and are getting absolutely nowhere at first. No one is being cooperative and as she interviews several people, Cassie discovers that there's no love lost for the murder victim.
Meanwhile, the local pastor of Eagle Rock is doing everything in his power to turn the mundane residents against any magical person or their associates. There is a lot of action between the human townsfolk and the practitioners and none of it is good. The level of hate is extremely high but the author does a great job of getting her point across and actually incorporating true life lessons into her novel.
As you reach the end of the non-stop action-filled 3rd installment of the Cassie Scot series, truths will be uncovered, secrets revealed, and lives will be forever changed.
The author did an excellent job writing the entire novel. The dialogue was fluid and smooth and all of the characters were likable in their own way - even the not-so-nice characters. Cassie's character is very strong and competent. She's able to figure out how to take care of and protect herself while unable to manifest anything magical. She's still conflicted when it comes to her relationship with Evan, even while dating another. We are introduced to new characters in this novel and Ms. Amsden does a fantastic job of letting us get to know them at the proper level and yet, at the same time, makes sure to give all of the staple characters enough face time. The characters in the Cassie Scot series are easy to relate to, have deep layers, and are emotional.
I highly recommend this series!
I absolutely could not put this book down!!!
Review copy courtesy of the author, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2015
Blog tour is up over on www.ktbookreviews.com TODAY!
http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/201...
My Review....
Mind Games is certainly my favorite in the Cassie Scot Series so far guys! We start off in the thick of it, Evan kicking butt with an assist from Hunter/Vamp(ish) Jason and a revelation in Evan’s thinking.
Meanwhile, Cassie, nursing a broken heart, has pieced a life together with her friends in a new apartment. Working for the sheriff and a new partner, she is trying to solve the murder of the pastors’ wife.
The differences and the hate some of the townspeople feel toward each other really comes into focus when even the children show unusually high actions in hate. At times I felt sickened by the hatred that Cassie and her family endured. It’s not normal for people to behave this way and with such fervor. Something’s happening: a shift in thinking and morals, or is a darker force at play?
So now for the nitty-gritty of Cassie and Evan. Whelp - Cassie is still hurt, so when our boy Evan tries to smooth things over he’s met with the stinging fact that our Cassie ain’t having it! She has met a new guy in town. Charismatic and smooth, Mathew Blair has asked her out, and they are quickly turning into much more. Mathew is offering protection and security along with love. Evan will do whatever he can to make Cassie see that what she thinks she feels might not be real at all.
I gotta tell you - one of the reasons why I love this series so much is the innocence and vulnerability of Cassie. No matter what comes her way, she always tries to be a good person and help when she can. It really is a learning process for her. Cassie was so sheltered for so long, and with deep hurt inflicted by her parents, she is a thoughtful and soulful person. It’s a great quality for her to have, especially since she deals so much with people and their emotions.
So to sum it up, the magic is subtle in Mind Games and the love story is just hitting its peak now that the truth is out. I cannot wait for what’s to come in book four of the Cassie Scot Series. It’s a great series and one I hope you read.
www.ktbookreviews.com
http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/201...
My Review....
Mind Games is certainly my favorite in the Cassie Scot Series so far guys! We start off in the thick of it, Evan kicking butt with an assist from Hunter/Vamp(ish) Jason and a revelation in Evan’s thinking.
Meanwhile, Cassie, nursing a broken heart, has pieced a life together with her friends in a new apartment. Working for the sheriff and a new partner, she is trying to solve the murder of the pastors’ wife.
The differences and the hate some of the townspeople feel toward each other really comes into focus when even the children show unusually high actions in hate. At times I felt sickened by the hatred that Cassie and her family endured. It’s not normal for people to behave this way and with such fervor. Something’s happening: a shift in thinking and morals, or is a darker force at play?
So now for the nitty-gritty of Cassie and Evan. Whelp - Cassie is still hurt, so when our boy Evan tries to smooth things over he’s met with the stinging fact that our Cassie ain’t having it! She has met a new guy in town. Charismatic and smooth, Mathew Blair has asked her out, and they are quickly turning into much more. Mathew is offering protection and security along with love. Evan will do whatever he can to make Cassie see that what she thinks she feels might not be real at all.
I gotta tell you - one of the reasons why I love this series so much is the innocence and vulnerability of Cassie. No matter what comes her way, she always tries to be a good person and help when she can. It really is a learning process for her. Cassie was so sheltered for so long, and with deep hurt inflicted by her parents, she is a thoughtful and soulful person. It’s a great quality for her to have, especially since she deals so much with people and their emotions.
So to sum it up, the magic is subtle in Mind Games and the love story is just hitting its peak now that the truth is out. I cannot wait for what’s to come in book four of the Cassie Scot Series. It’s a great series and one I hope you read.
www.ktbookreviews.com
May 2, 2014
From the moment she was born, Cassie Scot has had to deal with the fact that she's different from the rest of her family. Though no one has outright said that they blame her for her lack of powers, she knows her family thinks the worst of her. She can't quite understand as to why she's so normal. Not when everyone else seems to have magic aplenty within their veins.
As the situation between Cassie and Evan escalates, she soon realizes that things are not as clear-cut as she thought they were. There's something she's not quite seeing, yet she's ever determined in piecing the truth together, once and for all. Granted, everyone keeps telling her to leave well enough alone. Unfortunately, that's something she can't do. Her heart clamors for understanding, and she'll do everything possible to uncover the truth, no matter the cost.
As chaos erupts all around her, Cassie vows to uncover the blanket of secrets that seems to plague the town. People's lives are in jeopardy. Hers included. Deep inside, she knows that unlocking what shouldn't be known will cause further discord amongst in the community, but that's a risk she's willing to take. For the town's sake as well as her family's, all wrongs must be set to right.
Cassie soon comes to the realization that she won't be able to do things alone. There's only one person in town who can truly give her the helping hand she needs. Sadly, it's the one person whose presence she can do without. Still, if she's to succeed where others have failed, she'll need to put her trust in Evan's hands once more. The question is, will she be able to keep her heart intact once everything is said and done?
Another brilliant addition to Christine's thrilling fantasy paranormal series, Mind Games will certainly hook you in from the very start. The third book in the series answers several questions left behind in books one and two. If you haven't caught up in reading both books yet, you're going to want to do that before diving into this one. Why? Because you might not get everything that happens in this book if you don't familiarize yourself with the beginning of the story first. I truly wonder what Christine has in store for these beloved characters. Perhaps they'll have their happy ending soon enough. Only time will tell.
As the situation between Cassie and Evan escalates, she soon realizes that things are not as clear-cut as she thought they were. There's something she's not quite seeing, yet she's ever determined in piecing the truth together, once and for all. Granted, everyone keeps telling her to leave well enough alone. Unfortunately, that's something she can't do. Her heart clamors for understanding, and she'll do everything possible to uncover the truth, no matter the cost.
As chaos erupts all around her, Cassie vows to uncover the blanket of secrets that seems to plague the town. People's lives are in jeopardy. Hers included. Deep inside, she knows that unlocking what shouldn't be known will cause further discord amongst in the community, but that's a risk she's willing to take. For the town's sake as well as her family's, all wrongs must be set to right.
Cassie soon comes to the realization that she won't be able to do things alone. There's only one person in town who can truly give her the helping hand she needs. Sadly, it's the one person whose presence she can do without. Still, if she's to succeed where others have failed, she'll need to put her trust in Evan's hands once more. The question is, will she be able to keep her heart intact once everything is said and done?
Another brilliant addition to Christine's thrilling fantasy paranormal series, Mind Games will certainly hook you in from the very start. The third book in the series answers several questions left behind in books one and two. If you haven't caught up in reading both books yet, you're going to want to do that before diving into this one. Why? Because you might not get everything that happens in this book if you don't familiarize yourself with the beginning of the story first. I truly wonder what Christine has in store for these beloved characters. Perhaps they'll have their happy ending soon enough. Only time will tell.
June 11, 2014
Sometimes love hurts. Sometimes love is complicated. Sometimes it’s time to move on to a new love, to a new life. This is what Cassie Scot does in Award Winning Author Christine Amsden’s latest novel Mind Games: a Cassie Scot Novel. Or rather what she tries to do. If only her ex-boyfriend would cooperate.
Cassie Scot, star of Christine Amsden’s Cassie Scot Mystery series, is back, along with old familiar characters (if you’ve read books one and two) and the addition of some interesting new characters. You’ve heard of love triangles. Well, Cassie is caught in one of those. Her triangle is a bit different to the norm, however. Evan Blackwood, her old flame, has magical powers. Matthew Blair, her new beau, is a mind mage. They’re both determined to protect Cassie, especially from each other. As if two wannabe heroes aren’t enough to deal with Cassie, who has no magic at all, soon finds herself, along with Wesley Blake, her new partner at the sheriff‘s office where she works, investigating a fire, a death, and other weird happenings in town. As she grows closer to the truth, she also discovers more secrets about her past. Sometimes the truth is painful, too.
I adored books one and two in the series and was excited when MIND GAMES was published. It did not disappoint. Cassie is brave though not perfect. She makes mistakes. She has doubts. In other words, she’s human, not just a paper character in a book. The author is great at creating characters that are so real the reader can identify with them, the good and the bad ones. Ms. Amsden is also good at throwing in surprises and twists and turns. More than once I said, “I didn’t see that coming.” Since the novel contains a huge cast of characters, keeping track of all of them could be confusing. The author has taken care of that with a listing of the characters at the back, reminding the reader who each one is.
I recommend MIND GAMES and the other books in the series for your reading enjoyment. Good news: STOLEN DREAMS, Book four in the series is scheduled for release in July, 2014. I’m so glad because the ending of this book demands more. Happy Reading.
###
Cassie Scot, star of Christine Amsden’s Cassie Scot Mystery series, is back, along with old familiar characters (if you’ve read books one and two) and the addition of some interesting new characters. You’ve heard of love triangles. Well, Cassie is caught in one of those. Her triangle is a bit different to the norm, however. Evan Blackwood, her old flame, has magical powers. Matthew Blair, her new beau, is a mind mage. They’re both determined to protect Cassie, especially from each other. As if two wannabe heroes aren’t enough to deal with Cassie, who has no magic at all, soon finds herself, along with Wesley Blake, her new partner at the sheriff‘s office where she works, investigating a fire, a death, and other weird happenings in town. As she grows closer to the truth, she also discovers more secrets about her past. Sometimes the truth is painful, too.
I adored books one and two in the series and was excited when MIND GAMES was published. It did not disappoint. Cassie is brave though not perfect. She makes mistakes. She has doubts. In other words, she’s human, not just a paper character in a book. The author is great at creating characters that are so real the reader can identify with them, the good and the bad ones. Ms. Amsden is also good at throwing in surprises and twists and turns. More than once I said, “I didn’t see that coming.” Since the novel contains a huge cast of characters, keeping track of all of them could be confusing. The author has taken care of that with a listing of the characters at the back, reminding the reader who each one is.
I recommend MIND GAMES and the other books in the series for your reading enjoyment. Good news: STOLEN DREAMS, Book four in the series is scheduled for release in July, 2014. I’m so glad because the ending of this book demands more. Happy Reading.
###
July 29, 2016
4.5 stars
“Mind Games” by Christine Amsden is book 3 in the intriguing ‘Cassie Scot’ fantasy series which features the continuing adventures of the only non-magical member of a powerful magical family. Sadly, Cassie has been betrayed by her longtime friend and romantic interest, Evan Blackwood, although their relationship continues to be very complicated. Cassie becomes involved with the powerful Matthew Blair, much to the dismay of those around her, and this, added to the tinderbox that the town of Eagle Rock is becoming as those without magic continue to foment unrest, threatens to destroy everything she holds most dear. Shifting alliances and hidden agendas alter the balance of power and it will require painful choices to try to overcome the dangers that are looming.
This exciting addition to a fun new adult fantasy series continues to reveal more about the complicated Cassie Scot who has to juggle her duties to the town as a deputy and the obligations inherent in being a member of a very powerful magical family. The intriguing and startling revelations that are gradually uncovered change the dynamics of power and the various secrets that swirl around her force Cassie to soul-search and decide what she really values. I enjoyed the episodes that revealed more of Cassie’s character although I was dismayed by some of the experiences that she and her family underwent which highlight the dangers of bigotry, no matter who or what the item of contention is. There are several mysteries that I look forward to having solved in the final book and although one might be able to read this story as a stand-alone, it would be much better to start the series by reading the first two books, “Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective” and “Secrets and Lies”. This story does a very nice job of blending fantastical magic and character studies and I anxiously await the conclusion of the series!
A copy of this title was given to me for an honest review.
Review submitted to Night Owl Reviews
“Mind Games” by Christine Amsden is book 3 in the intriguing ‘Cassie Scot’ fantasy series which features the continuing adventures of the only non-magical member of a powerful magical family. Sadly, Cassie has been betrayed by her longtime friend and romantic interest, Evan Blackwood, although their relationship continues to be very complicated. Cassie becomes involved with the powerful Matthew Blair, much to the dismay of those around her, and this, added to the tinderbox that the town of Eagle Rock is becoming as those without magic continue to foment unrest, threatens to destroy everything she holds most dear. Shifting alliances and hidden agendas alter the balance of power and it will require painful choices to try to overcome the dangers that are looming.
This exciting addition to a fun new adult fantasy series continues to reveal more about the complicated Cassie Scot who has to juggle her duties to the town as a deputy and the obligations inherent in being a member of a very powerful magical family. The intriguing and startling revelations that are gradually uncovered change the dynamics of power and the various secrets that swirl around her force Cassie to soul-search and decide what she really values. I enjoyed the episodes that revealed more of Cassie’s character although I was dismayed by some of the experiences that she and her family underwent which highlight the dangers of bigotry, no matter who or what the item of contention is. There are several mysteries that I look forward to having solved in the final book and although one might be able to read this story as a stand-alone, it would be much better to start the series by reading the first two books, “Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective” and “Secrets and Lies”. This story does a very nice job of blending fantastical magic and character studies and I anxiously await the conclusion of the series!
A copy of this title was given to me for an honest review.
Review submitted to Night Owl Reviews
May 12, 2014
I really like Christine Amsden's Cassie Scot series but find myself wanting to strangle Cassie and Evan at times! Yes, they've both been lied to and manipulated but they really are their own worst enemies (I'm mainly blaming Evan and his actions here)! The ending to Secrets and Lies was a killer and I was torn between wanting to hug Evan and smack him. The clever thing about Amsden's writing is how she keeps you guessing and isn't afraid to mix things up. Just when you think certain characters are safe or the situation may finally be resolved, she throws the proverbial spanner in the works. This is both brilliant and infuriating!
I think I said it in my reviews of the first two instalments, but I'm gonna say it again; EVERYBODY seems to have an agenda when it comes to Cassie. I had been suspicious of Madison in the past (don't worry NO SPOILERS HERE) I'm not really sure why. I wasn't expecting the direction Amsden took the story with either of Cassie's friends.
I'm still not sure how I feel about Cassie's parents. I did slightly soften towards them in Mind Games, but am still shocked by their actions in the previous books. I also really want see Cassie get some magic. It's really sad seeing her feeling belittled because of events outside of her control.
Oh Evan!!! It's pretty obvious (to me anyway) how Evan feels about Cassie but his actions deny the truth and I can understand her confusion, bitterness and pain. Plus there's a new man on Cassie's radar! I wasn't the biggest fan of Matthew but I think it's because I'm still holding out hope that Evan and Cassie can get past their parents feud and find their own balance.
4 Stars in my Sky!
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review!
Follow the tour & review over on my blog Zili in the Sky
June 24, 2014
I received an ARC copy to give an honest review.
I really enjoy the world of the paranormal that this author has created with Cassie. I would highly recommend you read the other two books in this series so you can get a feel of the characters and their powers and a bit of their background.
Mind Games takes place where book two ended. Cassie and Evan are no longer together but he just can't or won't let her be and let her get on with her life.
Cassie is slowly getting her life back to normal but of course nothing is normal in the town she lives in. Evan has a secret that Cassie ends up discovering and lets just say she is very very upset.
New characters are introduced and we get a look at more the townspeople that live in Eagle Rock that we have before. But is it a good thing or a bad thing? While Cassie is getting over Evan she ends up catching the eye of a very important figure head Matthew but what are his intentions with Cassie. Because we all know it seems everyone has an agenda when it comes to Cassie.
There is a lot of action within this book and a lot of hate being thrown around so be prepared especially when it involves the children.
There are questions with Cassie's friends that I have to know what is going on. Hopefully those answers will be in book four.
Cassie is still a strong character, very independent which I like. Even though she still doesn't have her magic abilities like everyone else she can still kick butt and solve her cases. Evan is well still Evan he is still a bit pushy and doesn't like the word no.
If you enjoy the paranormal, a bit of romance, a strong female character pick up the ParaNormal series!
I really enjoy the world of the paranormal that this author has created with Cassie. I would highly recommend you read the other two books in this series so you can get a feel of the characters and their powers and a bit of their background.
Mind Games takes place where book two ended. Cassie and Evan are no longer together but he just can't or won't let her be and let her get on with her life.
Cassie is slowly getting her life back to normal but of course nothing is normal in the town she lives in. Evan has a secret that Cassie ends up discovering and lets just say she is very very upset.
New characters are introduced and we get a look at more the townspeople that live in Eagle Rock that we have before. But is it a good thing or a bad thing? While Cassie is getting over Evan she ends up catching the eye of a very important figure head Matthew but what are his intentions with Cassie. Because we all know it seems everyone has an agenda when it comes to Cassie.
There is a lot of action within this book and a lot of hate being thrown around so be prepared especially when it involves the children.
There are questions with Cassie's friends that I have to know what is going on. Hopefully those answers will be in book four.
Cassie is still a strong character, very independent which I like. Even though she still doesn't have her magic abilities like everyone else she can still kick butt and solve her cases. Evan is well still Evan he is still a bit pushy and doesn't like the word no.
If you enjoy the paranormal, a bit of romance, a strong female character pick up the ParaNormal series!
May 9, 2014
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***Received the ebook for free for an honest review
The cover has intrigue with the burning house on it, and I don’t know what it is about the moon, but I love it :)
Christine really is a fabulous writer. I always get pulled into Cassie Scot’s world and think it would definitely be an interesting place to live. Never a dull moment :) It always amazes me the twists that she throws in and how action packed her story lines are. Her writing style is just awesome. I always love reading this series, and this book was no exception. I will admit that there are several men I would have slapped if I were Cassie and probably repeatedly ;) I’m so torn because I’m mad at Evan, but I really want her and Evan to have this amazing fairy tale ending that I secretly hope for.
Cassie is this amazing detective who manages to get herself into and out of so much trouble. It seems to follow her around. I admire how much she wants to help people and her common sense that seems to be lacking in the real world. I love a heroine who is strong and smart that can stand on her own two feet, and this is definitely Cassie.
The story ended way to quickly, and now I have to wait again for more. Have I mentioned before I’m not good at being patient?? Christine write fast because I want book 4….like NOW :)
I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves paranormal and mystery together with lots of action and drama.
***Received the ebook for free for an honest review
The cover has intrigue with the burning house on it, and I don’t know what it is about the moon, but I love it :)
Christine really is a fabulous writer. I always get pulled into Cassie Scot’s world and think it would definitely be an interesting place to live. Never a dull moment :) It always amazes me the twists that she throws in and how action packed her story lines are. Her writing style is just awesome. I always love reading this series, and this book was no exception. I will admit that there are several men I would have slapped if I were Cassie and probably repeatedly ;) I’m so torn because I’m mad at Evan, but I really want her and Evan to have this amazing fairy tale ending that I secretly hope for.
Cassie is this amazing detective who manages to get herself into and out of so much trouble. It seems to follow her around. I admire how much she wants to help people and her common sense that seems to be lacking in the real world. I love a heroine who is strong and smart that can stand on her own two feet, and this is definitely Cassie.
The story ended way to quickly, and now I have to wait again for more. Have I mentioned before I’m not good at being patient?? Christine write fast because I want book 4….like NOW :)
I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves paranormal and mystery together with lots of action and drama.
April 21, 2014
The title of this book is so appropriate. I thought I had things figured out pretty early on. I didn't mind though as unexpected things kept happening. Excitement and suspense were flowing fairly steadily. Turns out I was wrong but right. Mind Games with the author.
I love this series. Each book has its own mystery which is solved yet remains woven into the following books. There are wonderful setups, cliffhanger of a sort, for the next book. The series has no strong language issues. There are some sexual references that may make this more suitable for older teens and adults. I did not find these to be overly graphic though. There is some violence but also not over the top. I still get the magical Nancy Drew vibe with this book. I recommend the series be read in order for the best enjoyment.
I did receive a print copy of this book for review purposes. I purchased a Kindle copy. I did so for a couple of reasons. I appreciate the authors hard work. Though I do not know the author, after reading her books, I believe in her. This is a series I will read again. Having it on my Kindle is so handy. Though I am always appreciative of being given a book for review, my review is based upon my thoughts and feelings while reading the book. My review is my opinion, neither right nor wrong, just honest.
The dates for reading this are a bit deceptive. I began it on April 14th but then had to stop due to illness. I actually read the book April 20th, finishing on the 21st.
I love this series. Each book has its own mystery which is solved yet remains woven into the following books. There are wonderful setups, cliffhanger of a sort, for the next book. The series has no strong language issues. There are some sexual references that may make this more suitable for older teens and adults. I did not find these to be overly graphic though. There is some violence but also not over the top. I still get the magical Nancy Drew vibe with this book. I recommend the series be read in order for the best enjoyment.
I did receive a print copy of this book for review purposes. I purchased a Kindle copy. I did so for a couple of reasons. I appreciate the authors hard work. Though I do not know the author, after reading her books, I believe in her. This is a series I will read again. Having it on my Kindle is so handy. Though I am always appreciative of being given a book for review, my review is based upon my thoughts and feelings while reading the book. My review is my opinion, neither right nor wrong, just honest.
The dates for reading this are a bit deceptive. I began it on April 14th but then had to stop due to illness. I actually read the book April 20th, finishing on the 21st.
May 8, 2014
Amsden has done it again. Mind Games is another enticing read in the Cassie Scot series. When I first started reading this series, I was unsure if there was enough mystery and intrigue for an entire series. Well, I was wrong – and how. This series has it all – a great detective story, suspense, fantasy and romance. The story just keeps getting better and better. The foreshadowing and little clues laced here and there throughout the book make this a true detective series. In addition to the mystery, there’s the epic love story between Evan and Cassie. Although I’m not usually a big fantasy fan, Amsden makes the magical events that occur in Eagle Rock so realistic that I’m tempted to go on a field trip to find this town!
I love the characters in this novel. They are all very well developed – not even the minor characters are shallow. And Cassie – what can I say about her? She’s so sweet and lovely, trying to deal with not having any magical talent in a magical word. Although we have to wonder if she really does have some magical powers now and again. She’s actually too nice and sometimes I want to yell at her to stop being so forgiving. But if she weren’t, she wouldn’t be our Cassie.
I recommend this book to pretty much any one who asks me for a book recommendation. Cannot wait for the next one.
I love the characters in this novel. They are all very well developed – not even the minor characters are shallow. And Cassie – what can I say about her? She’s so sweet and lovely, trying to deal with not having any magical talent in a magical word. Although we have to wonder if she really does have some magical powers now and again. She’s actually too nice and sometimes I want to yell at her to stop being so forgiving. But if she weren’t, she wouldn’t be our Cassie.
I recommend this book to pretty much any one who asks me for a book recommendation. Cannot wait for the next one.
April 26, 2014
Once again Christine does not disappoint. This book. starts off basically where book.#2 ended. If you liked the other 2books you'll love this one. you finally y get answers to questions you've probably Been asking since book.#1. I know I have and I'm so.happy they were finally revealed.
The writing and Storyline is as always great. well written, enjoyable, a lot more of Cassie finally questioning herself and her non magical ability until she finally gets answers. a lot of anger mudanes this book, witches fighting back but still protecting their secrets. Cassie falling in love again, so she thinks. Evan returning after breaking her heart and still very protective even.though Cassie wants nothing to do with him.
some great scenes in.this book , more violence then any of the other books.
All in.all I'd say this book finally made them all come together and ended with a shocker for Evan which I really enjoyed because he deserves it.
So r e ad this book b yt? be sure to read the 1st 2 if you haven't already. Their a virtual blog tour going on now with giveaways
you can find it on my blog at
http://thereaderhaven.wordpress.com
that and I'm sure other books you might be interested in are reviewed and posted but don't read the spoilers if your going.g to. read the book. many to.chose from.
The writing and Storyline is as always great. well written, enjoyable, a lot more of Cassie finally questioning herself and her non magical ability until she finally gets answers. a lot of anger mudanes this book, witches fighting back but still protecting their secrets. Cassie falling in love again, so she thinks. Evan returning after breaking her heart and still very protective even.though Cassie wants nothing to do with him.
some great scenes in.this book , more violence then any of the other books.
All in.all I'd say this book finally made them all come together and ended with a shocker for Evan which I really enjoyed because he deserves it.
So r e ad this book b yt? be sure to read the 1st 2 if you haven't already. Their a virtual blog tour going on now with giveaways
you can find it on my blog at
http://thereaderhaven.wordpress.com
that and I'm sure other books you might be interested in are reviewed and posted but don't read the spoilers if your going.g to. read the book. many to.chose from.
May 23, 2014
Mind Games surprised me by being the best of the Cassie Scot books. The plot is as full of intrigue and mystery as the other two stories but Christine Amsden supplements this with added tension.
In Mind Games it is the magical community of Cassie's home town, Eagle Rock, which is threatened by an unknown enemy. During the course of Cassie's investigation the reader meets some new characters, and revisits old ones. Although brief, I particularly enjoyed the reappearance of Jason, a favorite mine from the first book, and the ambiguity surrounding his new identity.
Cassie's relationship with Evan is under strain in Mind Games, following his dismissal of her at the end of Secrets and Lies. She attempts to move on, forging a new romance with Matthew Blair. He is an individual I immediately mistrusted him because of his gift as a mind mage and his pursuit of Cassie. However, it is interesting to see our main character maturing sexually.
Although Cassie and Evan are no longer involved he refuses to relinquish his protection of her, in unexpected ways, with often amusing consequences.
Mind Games has more action than the previous two books and interaction between magic and non magic peoples, resulting in bigotry and disputes throughout Eagle Rock. This is a fantastic and exciting continuation of the series and I now cannot wait for the fourth Cassie Scot story.
In Mind Games it is the magical community of Cassie's home town, Eagle Rock, which is threatened by an unknown enemy. During the course of Cassie's investigation the reader meets some new characters, and revisits old ones. Although brief, I particularly enjoyed the reappearance of Jason, a favorite mine from the first book, and the ambiguity surrounding his new identity.
Cassie's relationship with Evan is under strain in Mind Games, following his dismissal of her at the end of Secrets and Lies. She attempts to move on, forging a new romance with Matthew Blair. He is an individual I immediately mistrusted him because of his gift as a mind mage and his pursuit of Cassie. However, it is interesting to see our main character maturing sexually.
Although Cassie and Evan are no longer involved he refuses to relinquish his protection of her, in unexpected ways, with often amusing consequences.
Mind Games has more action than the previous two books and interaction between magic and non magic peoples, resulting in bigotry and disputes throughout Eagle Rock. This is a fantastic and exciting continuation of the series and I now cannot wait for the fourth Cassie Scot story.
August 22, 2016
The title of this book is so appropriate. I thought I had things figured out pretty early on. I didn't mind though as unexpected things kept happening. Excitement and suspense were flowing fairly steadily. Turns out I was wrong but right. Mind Games with the author.
I love this series. Each book has its own mystery which is solved yet remains woven into the following books. There are wonderful setups, cliffhanger of a sort, for the next book. The series has no strong language issues. There are some sexual references that may make this more suitable for older teens and adults. I did not find these to be overly graphic though. There is some violence but also not over the top. I still get the magical Nancy Drew vibe with this book. I recommend the series be read in order for the best enjoyment.
I did receive a print copy of this book for review purposes. I purchased a Kindle copy. I did so for a couple of reasons. I appreciate the authors hard work. Though I do not know the author, after reading her books, I believe in her. This is a series I will read again. Having it on my Kindle is so handy. Though I am always appreciative of being given a book for review, my review is based upon my thoughts and feelings while reading the book. My review is my opinion, neither right nor wrong, just honest.
I love this series. Each book has its own mystery which is solved yet remains woven into the following books. There are wonderful setups, cliffhanger of a sort, for the next book. The series has no strong language issues. There are some sexual references that may make this more suitable for older teens and adults. I did not find these to be overly graphic though. There is some violence but also not over the top. I still get the magical Nancy Drew vibe with this book. I recommend the series be read in order for the best enjoyment.
I did receive a print copy of this book for review purposes. I purchased a Kindle copy. I did so for a couple of reasons. I appreciate the authors hard work. Though I do not know the author, after reading her books, I believe in her. This is a series I will read again. Having it on my Kindle is so handy. Though I am always appreciative of being given a book for review, my review is based upon my thoughts and feelings while reading the book. My review is my opinion, neither right nor wrong, just honest.
March 18, 2021
Cassie is such a special character. It's so hard to find characters like her.
Characters that are total fighters.
Characters that know how to take care of themselves.
Characters that know they do NOT need a man to survive. (In Cassie's case literally.)
Even no matter how much we want that man.
I mean "She."
No I don't.
I really like Evan.
A lot. At some point while reading Mind Games I realized that I'm under the theory that he can do no wrong.
Yes, I'm that smitten.
So it's not just Cassie that's special but all the characters in the List of Characters at the end- that would have done me a lot better at the beginning, just saying- from the main character to characters that are only around for a chapter. They all have something that will instantly make you like them.
Even the ones you aren't so suppose to like.
The series itself is something special. It's a wonderful mix of mystery, humor and paranormal. I found myself diving it head first and not wanting to come back out of that world until I was done with it.
The story just keeps getting better and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Characters that are total fighters.
Characters that know how to take care of themselves.
Characters that know they do NOT need a man to survive. (In Cassie's case literally.)
Even no matter how much we want that man.
I mean "She."
No I don't.
I really like Evan.
A lot. At some point while reading Mind Games I realized that I'm under the theory that he can do no wrong.
Yes, I'm that smitten.
So it's not just Cassie that's special but all the characters in the List of Characters at the end- that would have done me a lot better at the beginning, just saying- from the main character to characters that are only around for a chapter. They all have something that will instantly make you like them.
Even the ones you aren't so suppose to like.
The series itself is something special. It's a wonderful mix of mystery, humor and paranormal. I found myself diving it head first and not wanting to come back out of that world until I was done with it.
The story just keeps getting better and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
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