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Jessica McClain #2
Hot Blooded
It hasn't been the best week for Jessica McClain.
Her mate has been kidnapped by a Goddess hell-bent on revenge --- but Jessica is playing for keeps.
Because she's the only female werewolf in town...it comes with its own set of rules...and powers.
Aided by two vamps, two loyal Pack members, and one very reluctant human, Jessica must rescue her man while coming to terms with what being a wolf really means.
All in a day's work for a girl.
The second novel in the Jessica McClain series is a full on action adventure featuring one angry Goddess and plenty of monsters, demons, and a few newly risen beasties...
Her mate has been kidnapped by a Goddess hell-bent on revenge --- but Jessica is playing for keeps.
Because she's the only female werewolf in town...it comes with its own set of rules...and powers.
Aided by two vamps, two loyal Pack members, and one very reluctant human, Jessica must rescue her man while coming to terms with what being a wolf really means.
All in a day's work for a girl.
The second novel in the Jessica McClain series is a full on action adventure featuring one angry Goddess and plenty of monsters, demons, and a few newly risen beasties...
314 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
53 people are currently reading
1791 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Carlson
29 books712 followersAmanda Carlson is the author of the upcoming Jessica McClain series. The first book, Full Blooded, will be released by Hachette Book Group, ORBIT US & UK SEPT 2012. She’s been writing for over ten years. Full Blooded is her first novel. She lives in Minneapolis, with her husband and three kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
September 25, 2016
Hot Blooded had all the things I didn't like about the first book: the info dumps, the super convoluted world building, the page long-monologues by almost every character and the boasting. OH THE BOASTING! The final confrontation between the main character and the evil villain was as follows:
THIS WENT ON FOR 5 CHAPTERS. At the end, I wanted to kill them both. What semi-intelligent being decides to have boastful conversations while in a fight to the death?
On top of that, it seems the author doesn't know when to end a book. Instead of getting some well deserved nookie with Roarke after the rescue, we get not one but TWO setups for future books!! Every sect wants a piece of Jessica! The demons! The sorcerers! And let's not forget the vamps! (Which she swore to help at the end of book 1.) And you know why? Because Jessica is one of the most powerful supes to have ever been born in the history of supernaturalkind!!! She knows jack shit about anything but she can still kick EVERYBODY'S asses no matter how big, strong, intelligent, devious or experienced they are! Because she's the only female werewolf EVER!!!! And that trumps everybody and everything!!!
This is it for me. Sorry, Roarke and Therese Plummer (the super talented narrator) but not even the two of you could save this mess.
THIS WENT ON FOR 5 CHAPTERS. At the end, I wanted to kill them both. What semi-intelligent being decides to have boastful conversations while in a fight to the death?
On top of that, it seems the author doesn't know when to end a book. Instead of getting some well deserved nookie with Roarke after the rescue, we get not one but TWO setups for future books!! Every sect wants a piece of Jessica! The demons! The sorcerers! And let's not forget the vamps! (Which she swore to help at the end of book 1.) And you know why? Because Jessica is one of the most powerful supes to have ever been born in the history of supernaturalkind!!! She knows jack shit about anything but she can still kick EVERYBODY'S asses no matter how big, strong, intelligent, devious or experienced they are! Because she's the only female werewolf EVER!!!! And that trumps everybody and everything!!!
This is it for me. Sorry, Roarke and Therese Plummer (the super talented narrator) but not even the two of you could save this mess.
April 17, 2013
Jessica McClain is the only female werewolf in existence. She is also the strongest, fastest and most powerful among werewolves. Not even her father, the strongest Alpha, can force her to obey him if she doesn’t do it willingly. Her first change was met with hostility and anger since it was prophesied that a female werewolf would destroy their entire race. According to a different prophecy, she'll be the one to bring ballance to the entire supernatural community.
But Jessica doesn’t want to rule the werewolves or bring balance to the supernatural world, no matter what the prophecies say. In truth, she just wants to be left alone to run her small PI business, but it simply isn’t in the cards. In Hot Blooded, her pack found itself in the middle of a war, and Jessica had to abandon them all to save her mate from an evil goddess bent on revenge.
In the first book, worldbuilding was a bit neglected in favor of character development, but in Hot Blooded, Carlson more than made up for it. The second part was especially interesting in that regard – Jessica and her friends had to fight all kinds of mythological creatures to get to Rourke, each of them more fascinating than the last.
Hot Blooded is full of heart-pounding action. To save her mate from the evil goddess Selene, Jessica has to fight her way through a forest full of traps from the underworld, but she’s more than up to the task. She’s not just incredibly strong and resistant to hostile magic, she is also quick witted and kind, always ready to risk her life to save someone else. Carlson found a perfect balance for her main character – she made her stubborn and strong, but also compassionate and thoughtful.
Unfortunately, romance is where Hot Blooded fell a tiny bit short. In Full Blooded, Jessica and Rourke discovered their mating bond, but before they had a chance to talk about it, let alone do something more than that, Rourke was taken and Jessica forced to move heaven and earth to save him. He ended up being absent through most of this book, and while I adored both he and Jessica separately, I simply wasn’t invested in their romance as much as I should have been. Hopefully, that will change in Cold Blooded. Carlson is a skilled enough author to make me forget all about it and I already think Rourke is perfect for Jess. I just need to see how well they work together.
Carlson’s secondary characters are extraordinary. I am emotionally attached to every one of them, especially Tyler and Danny. She really took the time to flesh out Jessica's entire inner circle. Her take on vampires was also very enjoyable. While it wasn’t the most original, she at least made their rules fascinating to read about.
I honestly think every urban fantasy fan should give this series a chance, and even those who don’t read much UF would probably find it very easy to read.
But Jessica doesn’t want to rule the werewolves or bring balance to the supernatural world, no matter what the prophecies say. In truth, she just wants to be left alone to run her small PI business, but it simply isn’t in the cards. In Hot Blooded, her pack found itself in the middle of a war, and Jessica had to abandon them all to save her mate from an evil goddess bent on revenge.
In the first book, worldbuilding was a bit neglected in favor of character development, but in Hot Blooded, Carlson more than made up for it. The second part was especially interesting in that regard – Jessica and her friends had to fight all kinds of mythological creatures to get to Rourke, each of them more fascinating than the last.
Hot Blooded is full of heart-pounding action. To save her mate from the evil goddess Selene, Jessica has to fight her way through a forest full of traps from the underworld, but she’s more than up to the task. She’s not just incredibly strong and resistant to hostile magic, she is also quick witted and kind, always ready to risk her life to save someone else. Carlson found a perfect balance for her main character – she made her stubborn and strong, but also compassionate and thoughtful.
Unfortunately, romance is where Hot Blooded fell a tiny bit short. In Full Blooded, Jessica and Rourke discovered their mating bond, but before they had a chance to talk about it, let alone do something more than that, Rourke was taken and Jessica forced to move heaven and earth to save him. He ended up being absent through most of this book, and while I adored both he and Jessica separately, I simply wasn’t invested in their romance as much as I should have been. Hopefully, that will change in Cold Blooded. Carlson is a skilled enough author to make me forget all about it and I already think Rourke is perfect for Jess. I just need to see how well they work together.
Carlson’s secondary characters are extraordinary. I am emotionally attached to every one of them, especially Tyler and Danny. She really took the time to flesh out Jessica's entire inner circle. Her take on vampires was also very enjoyable. While it wasn’t the most original, she at least made their rules fascinating to read about.
I honestly think every urban fantasy fan should give this series a chance, and even those who don’t read much UF would probably find it very easy to read.
January 31, 2016
It was better than the first one :D
It's not a bad story, interesting characters, fun plot and it's pretty fast paced. I didn't have time to get bored, stuff kept happening.
But these first two books could have been one. The end of the last one was too abrupt.
Still, it isn't a bad series, guess it's worth sticking to it.
It's not a bad story, interesting characters, fun plot and it's pretty fast paced. I didn't have time to get bored, stuff kept happening.
But these first two books could have been one. The end of the last one was too abrupt.
Still, it isn't a bad series, guess it's worth sticking to it.
April 23, 2013
We’re baaaack with another annoyingly long, but hopefully fun team review with the UTC Maidens. Suz, Angela and I all adore this series so here’s our thoughts on the very latest, and greatest from Amanda Carlson and the Jessica McClain series…
Describe Hot Blooded in three words:
Suz: Action packed fun!
Annie: [a] kick ass adventure!
Angela: Kick Ass Heroine
This is the second book in the Jessica McClain series, how do you think it compared to the first?
Suz: I think I liked this book a little bit more, I felt more into the story and the characters, the world building was great as we set to see how the supernatural world of vampires, werewolves and witches work. There were also some interesting curve balls thrown at us to spice the plot up. I am definitely excited to read on and see what will happen next.
Annie: HOT BLOODED is red hot! Readers will see more of the world and the paranormal creatures that Carlson has in this book floored me. So intriguing and unique, I loved how this book opened up the world to all the different paranormal elements. This book feels bigger and better than the first!
Angela: I equally love FULL BLOODED and HOT BLOODED. Ms. Carlson is consistent with providing an amazingly elaborate world building and well developed characters. She kept me glued to every page attempting to absorb the details of the story. The intrigues of the pack business, politics with the vampires, witches and most importantly Jessica’s maturity into her status made this book such an exciting read.
What would you have liked to see more or less of in this book?
Suz: I would have liked to see more of the romance between Rourke and Jess, I have to say I don’t 100% feel their romance as we haven’t seen them together that much, something which I imagine will change alot in the next installment of the series. Also, the action part of the book got a little bit repetitive I just wanted to hurry them up to the final showdown so we could see Rourke again! Also one teensy tiny irritation with me was Danny the English werewolf… as an English person I really hope people don’t think I talk like that lol!
Annie: I would have loved to see more of Rourke. Call me a Rourke hussy, it’s just the truth. Since most of this book is spent on Jessica finding Rourke, they don’t have much time together but when they do, it’s magic! I want a whole book on Rourke…preferably with some nekkid time.
Also, I love the humor that Carlson infuses into her books. More of that would be nice, especially since Jessica kicks ass while saying something especially witty and smart.
Angela: I really had to think about this question and I could not find anything I would like to see less of. But I would definitely would love to see more of Rourke. He just made such a big impact on Jessica’s life, the pack and me as a romance reader. After Full Blooded, I could not wait to see more of them together as I was rooting for their love to progress further. Unfortunately, due to circumstances of the story there just was not enough of him here. And when Roarke made his appearance, I just ate up the pages like an addict in need. Something about him exudes power and lust that’s just waiting to be explored.
What do you think of Jess and Rourke?
Suz: I like them! I think potentially they will make a fabulous couple and I can’t wait to see more of them being together in Cold Blooded the next book in the series.
Annie: I think they are amazing together! I only wished there was more time together in this book! They have amazing chemistry and whenever Rourke says something especially sexy, I melt!
I also really like the way Jessica’s character is developing. Her human side and her wolf side sometimes clash so seeing that struggle is entertaining and makes for some fun interactions. I can’t wait to see her come into her skin more fully.
Angela: Ms. Carlson knows how to provide a true kick-ass-heroine because Jessica McClain is all that and then some. She had truly grown to be a strong woman in the midst of war in a man’s world. And the progress of her very being just intrigued me…as it is in the “prophecy’ and in her “blood”. I get goose bumps to think what she can be and what she can do. As far as Roarke, well, we all know he is very special to Jessica. He is with power, sex appeal and experience, unfortunately, we did not get to witness most of it as he was detained. The romance, well, there’s just something about shifters being mated. Through Jessica’s eyes, we experience how she truly feels for him. Not only that she is mated to Colin Rourke, she is utterly in love with him.
If there was a spin off book, which character would you like to see?
Suz: Jessica’s brother Tyler, I have a soft spot for him!
Annie: ooohhh, good one! Yes, I love love love Tyler and would definitely read that series is Carlson should decide to write about him!
Angela: I really would love, love to see Rourke’s POV on his experience while in captive. That thought strikes my curiousity. During the time he was gone, we really didn’t see what was done to him, what he was thinking and how he survived it all.
Annie: OH GOOD ONE ANG!!!
Any final thoughts? Are you going to be reading the next book in the series?
Suz: I really liked this book, it was action packed and full of excitement I will definitely be reading the next book in this series
Annie: Hell yeah I am! I need to know what happens next! That ending has me anxious for the next book! HOT BLOODED is a solid instalment to the series. Bringing forth magic and mayhem, this series continues to shine in a sea of sameness.
Angela:
Jessica McClain is one of the best UF shifter series out there and I’m expecting more great reads from Ms Carlson. I will be reading the next installment, no doubt about that!
*ARC provided by author
April 21, 2013
Quickie Thought: Amanda Carlson is not a one hit wonder. Hot Blooded is nice addition to the Jessica McClain series.
The Heroine: Jessica is a freak in the supe world. She is the only female werewolf and she's only been able to shift for about a week or so where as other werewolves can shift once they hit puberty. Jessica maybe a late bloomer but she is becoming a bad ass fast!
The Plot: Three werewolves, two vamps and a human enter a bar..... Picture this motley crew on a journey Lord of the Rings style with Rourke being "my precious". Jessica leads her brother, Tyler and friend, Danny on a quest to save her new found mate, Rourke. The werewolves get help from sibling vamps that's on loan from the Vampire Queen. Since werewolves and vamps don't like each other the tense is on during the trip. Plus throw in Ray, the human cop that would like nothing more than to see Jessica in jail. This group is not braiding each other's hair and making s'mores around the camp fire.
So the group takes a long and dangerous hike up a mountain, battling some of the weirdest creatures from the Underworld. And with each new encounter Jessica learns more and more about her special abilities. But with her new abilities more and more questions pop up as to what hell she actually is and what it will mean to the future of the supe world.
Issues: I don't have too much to complain about but the major thing I must bitch about is not enough Rourke! 90% of the book is the group making their way to find and save Rourke. I would have liked to see more of Rourke and Jessica together. But now that they are together I'm hoping we get some smexy times in the next book.
Final Thought: Hot Blooded was a little slower paced in some spots than Full Blooded but still a very strong installment in the Jessica McClain series and I can't wait to read Cold Blooded in October.
The Heroine: Jessica is a freak in the supe world. She is the only female werewolf and she's only been able to shift for about a week or so where as other werewolves can shift once they hit puberty. Jessica maybe a late bloomer but she is becoming a bad ass fast!
The Plot: Three werewolves, two vamps and a human enter a bar..... Picture this motley crew on a journey Lord of the Rings style with Rourke being "my precious". Jessica leads her brother, Tyler and friend, Danny on a quest to save her new found mate, Rourke. The werewolves get help from sibling vamps that's on loan from the Vampire Queen. Since werewolves and vamps don't like each other the tense is on during the trip. Plus throw in Ray, the human cop that would like nothing more than to see Jessica in jail. This group is not braiding each other's hair and making s'mores around the camp fire.
So the group takes a long and dangerous hike up a mountain, battling some of the weirdest creatures from the Underworld. And with each new encounter Jessica learns more and more about her special abilities. But with her new abilities more and more questions pop up as to what hell she actually is and what it will mean to the future of the supe world.
Issues: I don't have too much to complain about but the major thing I must bitch about is not enough Rourke! 90% of the book is the group making their way to find and save Rourke. I would have liked to see more of Rourke and Jessica together. But now that they are together I'm hoping we get some smexy times in the next book.
Final Thought: Hot Blooded was a little slower paced in some spots than Full Blooded but still a very strong installment in the Jessica McClain series and I can't wait to read Cold Blooded in October.
December 21, 2012
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and looked forward to this one. Unfortunately, it was a disappointment.
In this story, Jessica, newly minted werewolf, journeys to rescue her mate Rourke from evil goddess Selene. Along the way, she encounters a number of obstacles and challenges Selena put in her path and gathers a few new allies as well. But each challenge seems to be a relatively unrelated way for the author both to lengthen the book and delay the final confrontation. In each, Jessica discovers new and wondrous powers which pretty clearly will make her one of the most powerful supes in the world, the story further padded by a lot of inane conversation along the lines of "Golly gee all this power is pretty terrific, but I'm just a nice girl who wants to do the right thing."
Yawn.
Now I don't mind having a genuinely good-hearted protagonist nor one who develops nifty powers, but I like seeing a bit more of a struggle, both internal and external, than what Jessica faces in this book. Instead, we're treated to multiple episodes which differ little from each other, and little actual tension or growth other than the convenient appearance of the new powers and new Jessica groupies.
I'll probably read the next book in the series, but it certainly won't be near the top of my TBR pile.
In this story, Jessica, newly minted werewolf, journeys to rescue her mate Rourke from evil goddess Selene. Along the way, she encounters a number of obstacles and challenges Selena put in her path and gathers a few new allies as well. But each challenge seems to be a relatively unrelated way for the author both to lengthen the book and delay the final confrontation. In each, Jessica discovers new and wondrous powers which pretty clearly will make her one of the most powerful supes in the world, the story further padded by a lot of inane conversation along the lines of "Golly gee all this power is pretty terrific, but I'm just a nice girl who wants to do the right thing."
Yawn.
Now I don't mind having a genuinely good-hearted protagonist nor one who develops nifty powers, but I like seeing a bit more of a struggle, both internal and external, than what Jessica faces in this book. Instead, we're treated to multiple episodes which differ little from each other, and little actual tension or growth other than the convenient appearance of the new powers and new Jessica groupies.
I'll probably read the next book in the series, but it certainly won't be near the top of my TBR pile.
January 6, 2014
MUST READ!
'Hot Blooded' leaves off right after the events of 'Full Blooded' and thank goodness!! Our Jessica has lost her mate....already...to a sadistic bitch of a goddess who has a serious problem with rejection....but she's hell bent and determined to not let him stay lost!
If book #1 was a roller coaster ride....this amazing book #2 is like driving in an epic demolition derby (yes I've done it....longggggg time ago....no I'd not do it again....WAY to old and fat.....but let's just say WHEEEEEEEEEE!!)! Your heart is racing and sometimes the grip on your steering wheel is so tight it's painful, your brain is tripping through so many scenarios and plans of attack that you have to remind yourself to breathe...you're scared to death for what the next second will bring....BUT YOU JUST CAN'T GET THAT DAMNED MANIC GRIN OFF YOUR FACE!
THAT'S THIS BOOK!
There is literally not one single dull moment in this fabulous second installment of Jessica McClain's life! And SO much time with all the hunk-tastic fellas in Jess's life got the HubbaHubba factor shooting through the roof!!!!!!
New friendships and enemies that you just wanna punch in the wiener.....This book has it all!!!!!!
If you haven't met Jessica yet.....GO! Read 'Full Blooded' first.....but hurry! This series is a must read for anyone that loves them some weres!!
(I was given an ARC by the author and am SO glad!! Book #3, "Cold Blooded' cannot come fast enough!)
'Hot Blooded' leaves off right after the events of 'Full Blooded' and thank goodness!! Our Jessica has lost her mate....already...to a sadistic bitch of a goddess who has a serious problem with rejection....but she's hell bent and determined to not let him stay lost!
If book #1 was a roller coaster ride....this amazing book #2 is like driving in an epic demolition derby (yes I've done it....longggggg time ago....no I'd not do it again....WAY to old and fat.....but let's just say WHEEEEEEEEEE!!)! Your heart is racing and sometimes the grip on your steering wheel is so tight it's painful, your brain is tripping through so many scenarios and plans of attack that you have to remind yourself to breathe...you're scared to death for what the next second will bring....BUT YOU JUST CAN'T GET THAT DAMNED MANIC GRIN OFF YOUR FACE!
THAT'S THIS BOOK!
There is literally not one single dull moment in this fabulous second installment of Jessica McClain's life! And SO much time with all the hunk-tastic fellas in Jess's life got the HubbaHubba factor shooting through the roof!!!!!!
New friendships and enemies that you just wanna punch in the wiener.....This book has it all!!!!!!
If you haven't met Jessica yet.....GO! Read 'Full Blooded' first.....but hurry! This series is a must read for anyone that loves them some weres!!
(I was given an ARC by the author and am SO glad!! Book #3, "Cold Blooded' cannot come fast enough!)
June 19, 2013
Another great read by Amanda Carlson! This UF series has some serious potential.
"Hot Blooded" takes off where "Full Blooded" left us. Jessica is about to embark on a quest to find her captured mate, Rourke. Though she has the aide of two vampires and two of the strongest werewolves in her pack, it will be a difficult battle to defeat the goddess that has Rourke imprisoned. Jessica must learn her new powers and their limitations quickly in order to bring Rourke home.
I have to say, one major improvement over the first book is the pacing. It was brisk right from the get go, and I found myself unable to put this book down once I started reading. This book had so many twists and turns and supernatural creatures of every kind... it really kept the action going! I had to rip myself away from this book to get any work done today (work is so tedious when you are reading a good book!).
I also like the way the author did her world-building. There was information given at appropriate times and it wasn't just one big info dump. Also, the way she constructed the were and vampire communities made sense and worked well for my tastes. I like my werewolves sexy and alpha, my witches scary, and my vampires a bit creepy!
Though I really dug this book, I think the author needs to work on her dialogue. The times that she tries to be witty or funny just fall flat and ring totally false. I think she needs steer clear of trying to do one-liners all together. Also, the way that the characters talk to each other often seems stilted. The dialogue could definitely use some more finessing.
What would I have changed? Well, I would have liked more romance in this sequel. The first had Rouke and Jessica meeting, but here there is almost no interaction between the two of them. I would have loved a sexy scene or two before it left off into the next book in the series. Come on, throw me a bone!
Overall, this book was a great read. I will most certainly be moving on with this series. I can't wait until the next book is released!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
"Hot Blooded" takes off where "Full Blooded" left us. Jessica is about to embark on a quest to find her captured mate, Rourke. Though she has the aide of two vampires and two of the strongest werewolves in her pack, it will be a difficult battle to defeat the goddess that has Rourke imprisoned. Jessica must learn her new powers and their limitations quickly in order to bring Rourke home.
I have to say, one major improvement over the first book is the pacing. It was brisk right from the get go, and I found myself unable to put this book down once I started reading. This book had so many twists and turns and supernatural creatures of every kind... it really kept the action going! I had to rip myself away from this book to get any work done today (work is so tedious when you are reading a good book!).
I also like the way the author did her world-building. There was information given at appropriate times and it wasn't just one big info dump. Also, the way she constructed the were and vampire communities made sense and worked well for my tastes. I like my werewolves sexy and alpha, my witches scary, and my vampires a bit creepy!
Though I really dug this book, I think the author needs to work on her dialogue. The times that she tries to be witty or funny just fall flat and ring totally false. I think she needs steer clear of trying to do one-liners all together. Also, the way that the characters talk to each other often seems stilted. The dialogue could definitely use some more finessing.
What would I have changed? Well, I would have liked more romance in this sequel. The first had Rouke and Jessica meeting, but here there is almost no interaction between the two of them. I would have loved a sexy scene or two before it left off into the next book in the series. Come on, throw me a bone!
Overall, this book was a great read. I will most certainly be moving on with this series. I can't wait until the next book is released!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
April 24, 2013
4.5 Stars This one is a team review
Angela: I equally love FULL BLOODED and HOT BLOODED. Ms. Carlson is consistent with providing an amazingly elaborate world building and well developed characters. She kept me glued to every page attempting to absorb the details of the story.
Review also posted at
Describe Hot Blooded in three words:
Suz: Action packed fun!
Annie: [a] kick ass adventure!
Angela: Kick Ass Heroine
This is the second book in the Jessica McClain series, how do you think it compared to the first?
Suz: I think I liked this book a little bit more, I felt more into the story and the characters, the world building was great as we set to see how the supernatural world of vampires, werewolves and witches work. There were also some interesting curve balls thrown at us to spice the plot up. I am definitely excited to read on and see what will happen next.
Annie: HOT BLOODED is red hot! Readers will see more of the world and the paranormal creatures that Carlson has in this book floored me. So intriguing and unique, I loved how this book opened up the world to all the different paranormal elements. This book feels bigger and better than the first!
Angela: I equally love FULL BLOODED and HOT BLOODED. Ms. Carlson is consistent with providing an amazingly elaborate world building and well developed characters. She kept me glued to every page attempting to absorb the details of the story. The intrigues of the pack business, politics with the vampires, witches and most importantly Jessica’s maturity into her status made this book such an exciting read.
What would you have liked to see more or less of in this book?
Suz: I would have liked to see more of the romance between Rourke and Jess, I have to say I don’t 100% feel their romance as we haven’t seen them together that much, something which I imagine will change alot in the next installment of the series. Also, the action part of the book got a little bit repetitive I just wanted to hurry them up to the final showdown so we could see Rourke again! Also one teensy tiny irritation with me was Danny the English werewolf… as an English person I really hope people don’t think I talk like that lol!
Annie: I would have loved to see more of Rourke. Call me a Rourke hussy, it’s just the truth. Since most of this book is spent on Jessica finding Rourke, they don’t have much time together but when they do, it’s magic! I want a whole book on Rourke…preferably with some nekkid time.
Also, I love the humor that Carlson infuses into her books. More of that would be nice, especially since Jessica kicks ass while saying something especially witty and smart.
Angela: I really had to think about this question and I could not find anything I would like to see less of. But I would definitely would love to see more of Rourke. He just made such a big impact on Jessica’s life, the pack and me as a romance reader. After Full Blooded, I could not wait to see more of them together as I was rooting for their love to progress further. Unfortunately, due to circumstances of the story there just was not enough of him here. And when Roarke made his appearance, I just ate up the pages like an addict in need. Something about him exudes power and lust that’s just waiting to be explored.
What do you think of Jess and Rourke?
Suz: I like them! I think potentially they will make a fabulous couple and I can’t wait to see more of them being together in Cold Blooded the next book in the series.
Annie: I think they are amazing together! I only wished there was more time together in this book! They have amazing chemistry and whenever Rourke says something especially sexy, I melt!
I also really like the way Jessica’s character is developing. Her human side and her wolf side sometimes clash so seeing that struggle is entertaining and makes for some fun interactions. I can’t wait to see her come into her skin more fully.
Angela: Ms. Carlson knows how to provide a true kick-ass-heroine because Jessica McClain is all that and then some. She had truly grown to be a strong woman in the midst of war in a man’s world. And the progress of her very being just intrigued me…as it is in the “prophecy’ and in her “blood”. I get goose bumps to think what she can be and what she can do. As far as Roarke, well, we all know he is very special to Jessica. He is with power, sex appeal and experience, unfortunately, we did not get to witness most of it as he was detained. The romance, well, there’s just something about shifters being mated. Through Jessica’s eyes, we experience how she truly feels for him. Not only that she is mated to Colin Rourke, she is utterly in love with him.
If there was a spin off book, which character would you like to see?
Suz: Jessica’s brother Tyler, I have a soft spot for him!
Annie: ooohhh, good one! Yes, I love love love Tyler and would definitely read that series is Carlson should decide to write about him!
Angela: I really would love, love to see Rourke’s POV on his experience while in captive. That thought strikes my curiousity. During the time he was gone, we really didn’t see what was done to him, what he was thinking and how he survived it all.
Annie: OH GOOD ONE ANG!!!
Any final thoughts? Are you going to be reading the next book in the series?
Suz: I really liked this book, it was action packed and full of excitement I will definitely be reading the next book in this series
Annie: Hell yeah I am! I need to know what happens next! That ending has me anxious for the next book! HOT BLOODED is a solid instalment to the series. Bringing forth magic and mayhem, this series continues to shine in a sea of sameness.
Angela:
Jessica McClain is one of the best UF shifter series out there and I’m expecting more great reads from Ms Carlson. I will be reading the next installment, no doubt about that!
*ARC provided by author
Angela: I equally love FULL BLOODED and HOT BLOODED. Ms. Carlson is consistent with providing an amazingly elaborate world building and well developed characters. She kept me glued to every page attempting to absorb the details of the story.
Review also posted at
Describe Hot Blooded in three words:
Suz: Action packed fun!
Annie: [a] kick ass adventure!
Angela: Kick Ass Heroine
This is the second book in the Jessica McClain series, how do you think it compared to the first?
Suz: I think I liked this book a little bit more, I felt more into the story and the characters, the world building was great as we set to see how the supernatural world of vampires, werewolves and witches work. There were also some interesting curve balls thrown at us to spice the plot up. I am definitely excited to read on and see what will happen next.
Annie: HOT BLOODED is red hot! Readers will see more of the world and the paranormal creatures that Carlson has in this book floored me. So intriguing and unique, I loved how this book opened up the world to all the different paranormal elements. This book feels bigger and better than the first!
Angela: I equally love FULL BLOODED and HOT BLOODED. Ms. Carlson is consistent with providing an amazingly elaborate world building and well developed characters. She kept me glued to every page attempting to absorb the details of the story. The intrigues of the pack business, politics with the vampires, witches and most importantly Jessica’s maturity into her status made this book such an exciting read.
What would you have liked to see more or less of in this book?
Suz: I would have liked to see more of the romance between Rourke and Jess, I have to say I don’t 100% feel their romance as we haven’t seen them together that much, something which I imagine will change alot in the next installment of the series. Also, the action part of the book got a little bit repetitive I just wanted to hurry them up to the final showdown so we could see Rourke again! Also one teensy tiny irritation with me was Danny the English werewolf… as an English person I really hope people don’t think I talk like that lol!
Annie: I would have loved to see more of Rourke. Call me a Rourke hussy, it’s just the truth. Since most of this book is spent on Jessica finding Rourke, they don’t have much time together but when they do, it’s magic! I want a whole book on Rourke…preferably with some nekkid time.
Also, I love the humor that Carlson infuses into her books. More of that would be nice, especially since Jessica kicks ass while saying something especially witty and smart.
Angela: I really had to think about this question and I could not find anything I would like to see less of. But I would definitely would love to see more of Rourke. He just made such a big impact on Jessica’s life, the pack and me as a romance reader. After Full Blooded, I could not wait to see more of them together as I was rooting for their love to progress further. Unfortunately, due to circumstances of the story there just was not enough of him here. And when Roarke made his appearance, I just ate up the pages like an addict in need. Something about him exudes power and lust that’s just waiting to be explored.
What do you think of Jess and Rourke?
Suz: I like them! I think potentially they will make a fabulous couple and I can’t wait to see more of them being together in Cold Blooded the next book in the series.
Annie: I think they are amazing together! I only wished there was more time together in this book! They have amazing chemistry and whenever Rourke says something especially sexy, I melt!
I also really like the way Jessica’s character is developing. Her human side and her wolf side sometimes clash so seeing that struggle is entertaining and makes for some fun interactions. I can’t wait to see her come into her skin more fully.
Angela: Ms. Carlson knows how to provide a true kick-ass-heroine because Jessica McClain is all that and then some. She had truly grown to be a strong woman in the midst of war in a man’s world. And the progress of her very being just intrigued me…as it is in the “prophecy’ and in her “blood”. I get goose bumps to think what she can be and what she can do. As far as Roarke, well, we all know he is very special to Jessica. He is with power, sex appeal and experience, unfortunately, we did not get to witness most of it as he was detained. The romance, well, there’s just something about shifters being mated. Through Jessica’s eyes, we experience how she truly feels for him. Not only that she is mated to Colin Rourke, she is utterly in love with him.
If there was a spin off book, which character would you like to see?
Suz: Jessica’s brother Tyler, I have a soft spot for him!
Annie: ooohhh, good one! Yes, I love love love Tyler and would definitely read that series is Carlson should decide to write about him!
Angela: I really would love, love to see Rourke’s POV on his experience while in captive. That thought strikes my curiousity. During the time he was gone, we really didn’t see what was done to him, what he was thinking and how he survived it all.
Annie: OH GOOD ONE ANG!!!
Any final thoughts? Are you going to be reading the next book in the series?
Suz: I really liked this book, it was action packed and full of excitement I will definitely be reading the next book in this series
Annie: Hell yeah I am! I need to know what happens next! That ending has me anxious for the next book! HOT BLOODED is a solid instalment to the series. Bringing forth magic and mayhem, this series continues to shine in a sea of sameness.
Angela:
Jessica McClain is one of the best UF shifter series out there and I’m expecting more great reads from Ms Carlson. I will be reading the next installment, no doubt about that!
*ARC provided by author
April 10, 2013
Jess McClain has a lot on her plate in Hot Blooded the second instalment in Amanda Carlson's rather fantastic urban fantasy series. As the first female werewolf ever Jess has caused huge divisions amongst the wolfs who fear the looming prophecy that the rise of a female wolf will result in the end of their werewolf race. On top of this, every sect in the supernatural community now views Jess as a threat that needs eliminated, even half human, half demon Imp's threaten Jess in the car park telling her that her death is imminent and that she will never rule the underworld (not that she even wants to).
For Jess, her main priority is to rescue her newly found mate Rourke from Selene the Lunar Goddess. Jess finds herself forced into making a deal with the Vampire Queen to get the help of tracker vampires Eamon and Naomi to find Selene's lair. With the additional help of her brother Tyler and pack mate Danny as her bodyguards Jess is in a race against time to rescue Rourke from the Goddess. Never one to make things easy for herself Jess also has to bring pain in the ass human cop Ray along for the ride. As Ray now knows about the existence of the shifters he either has to be assimilated into their world or face death. Despite having a rather pressing rescue mission on her to do list Jess decides to terrify Ray into assimilating with the wolfs in a make or break kind of way by taking him along on their journey.
Super evil Goddess and witch Selene doesn't of course make things easy for Jess, not only has she set up a series of evil traps (a bit like a supernatural minefield full of scary and weird creatures) she's also placed a rather terrifying ongoing death spell on Jess which sees Jess having to work with her wolf to fight off.
With tension and action galore I absolutely loved Hot Blooded, as each of Selene's traps ramped the tension up another notch (the demonic goats were my outright favourite) I gnawed my fingernails and sweated profusely along with Jess. I loved the changes in Jess's relationships with both the vamps and her pack mates on their journey. It seemed unlikely at the start of their quest that a wolf and a vamp could ever be friends but when Jess steps into help Naomi it showed that Jess won't be bound by the traditional supernatural boundaries and traditions and I breathed a sigh of relief for Jess that she gained a much needed ally in her corner. Equally, I loved the changing pack relationship between the three wolfs. Jess isn't an alpha wolf threatening the position of her alpha father and brother, she's something entirely different and is very much in uncharted wolf territory. Having read a tonne of shifter books I really enjoyed the very different and creative way Jess's place or status in the pack evolved, it really kept me guessing.
I can't possibly not mention Rourke. Even although he wasn't in very much of the book his chemistry with Jess positively sizzles. So here's my plea to Amanda Carlson please, please, please give them some alone time, chapters of alone time would be good *winks*. I think I'm even more intrigued about Rourke now. It's mentioned that he has the grudging respect of the vampires, that the vampire Queen had hired him over the years but couldn't control him, it's also suggested that he may be a God or close to Godhood. Honestly, I'm practically dying with curiosity here, what is he??? All I know is I want more Rourke!
I finished Hot Blooded very much at the edge of my seat with the overwhelming feeling that the landscape is changing for Jess, the wolfs and the other supernatural sects. The story points towards a huge uprising and impending war and Jess realises that the wolfs will need a quick but extensive education on all things supernatural to survive. Hot Blooded definitely gave me that book buzz that this is a series just beginning and that there's so much more in store for Jess. I can't wait.
5 out of 5 and then some.
For Jess, her main priority is to rescue her newly found mate Rourke from Selene the Lunar Goddess. Jess finds herself forced into making a deal with the Vampire Queen to get the help of tracker vampires Eamon and Naomi to find Selene's lair. With the additional help of her brother Tyler and pack mate Danny as her bodyguards Jess is in a race against time to rescue Rourke from the Goddess. Never one to make things easy for herself Jess also has to bring pain in the ass human cop Ray along for the ride. As Ray now knows about the existence of the shifters he either has to be assimilated into their world or face death. Despite having a rather pressing rescue mission on her to do list Jess decides to terrify Ray into assimilating with the wolfs in a make or break kind of way by taking him along on their journey.
Super evil Goddess and witch Selene doesn't of course make things easy for Jess, not only has she set up a series of evil traps (a bit like a supernatural minefield full of scary and weird creatures) she's also placed a rather terrifying ongoing death spell on Jess which sees Jess having to work with her wolf to fight off.
With tension and action galore I absolutely loved Hot Blooded, as each of Selene's traps ramped the tension up another notch (the demonic goats were my outright favourite) I gnawed my fingernails and sweated profusely along with Jess. I loved the changes in Jess's relationships with both the vamps and her pack mates on their journey. It seemed unlikely at the start of their quest that a wolf and a vamp could ever be friends but when Jess steps into help Naomi it showed that Jess won't be bound by the traditional supernatural boundaries and traditions and I breathed a sigh of relief for Jess that she gained a much needed ally in her corner. Equally, I loved the changing pack relationship between the three wolfs. Jess isn't an alpha wolf threatening the position of her alpha father and brother, she's something entirely different and is very much in uncharted wolf territory. Having read a tonne of shifter books I really enjoyed the very different and creative way Jess's place or status in the pack evolved, it really kept me guessing.
I can't possibly not mention Rourke. Even although he wasn't in very much of the book his chemistry with Jess positively sizzles. So here's my plea to Amanda Carlson please, please, please give them some alone time, chapters of alone time would be good *winks*. I think I'm even more intrigued about Rourke now. It's mentioned that he has the grudging respect of the vampires, that the vampire Queen had hired him over the years but couldn't control him, it's also suggested that he may be a God or close to Godhood. Honestly, I'm practically dying with curiosity here, what is he??? All I know is I want more Rourke!
I finished Hot Blooded very much at the edge of my seat with the overwhelming feeling that the landscape is changing for Jess, the wolfs and the other supernatural sects. The story points towards a huge uprising and impending war and Jess realises that the wolfs will need a quick but extensive education on all things supernatural to survive. Hot Blooded definitely gave me that book buzz that this is a series just beginning and that there's so much more in store for Jess. I can't wait.
5 out of 5 and then some.
April 23, 2013
Wow! Jessica will traipse through hell for any and all she loves. And most definitely Rourke. Heart pounding read.
****FULL REVIEW****
Jessica's been having it rough. Supes are out to get her, attacking her at about ever turn. And it's taking all she has to not run off to find and save Rourke, but she knows she has to be prepared and get information first. There are rumors flying among the Supe world about her, or who she could be and what's to come - prophecies. One Imp attacker tells her they will find her. The demons do not want her to rule and they are hunting her. Everyone in the supernatural world 'knows' of Jessica, except Jessica. She's still trying to adjust to just the wolf part and so much more as it surfaces as Jessica gets her lead on the goddess who's holding Rourke and she fights her way through hell's demons to get to him.
Quick start right back into the world with Jessica. Jessica starts right off throwing punches as she has always done all her life. Fighting to survive. Love the heart racing start early on, and holds to it through out.
Jessica's mind is made up and she won't let anyone stop her. The drive is pushing her. She will go through any and all sorts of hell to find and get Rourke, her mate, back. Jessica is so different and learning of the supernatural world, along with herself, as she goes. Even the world of demons, which the werewolves have never dealt with. New beings and creatures are going to come at the top-of-the-food-chain wolves, and they are going to have to get ready for it. With Jessica at their side.
Jessica is more powerful than she ever even imagined. And others are taking all this in along with what they can learn from the prophecies. Demons are surfacing, and in the end have Jessica on their short list.
Jessica makes new allies. Ones she might be grateful to have, but also ones that might cause a stir in the werewolf world, and maybe even the supernatural world as a whole. I really liked the new friends we come across here, and how they open up the supe world to us sharing knowledge. Wonderful new bonds created.
We end the book with questions of a few, but the story of finding Rourke is completed here. There are new happenings to come, and the ending sets those up to come. Dang, can't wait for Cold Blooded!!
Constant heart-racing read, keeping the heart pounding with fevered worry and anticipation as Jessica fights for her love, friends, and her life.
****FULL REVIEW****
Jessica's been having it rough. Supes are out to get her, attacking her at about ever turn. And it's taking all she has to not run off to find and save Rourke, but she knows she has to be prepared and get information first. There are rumors flying among the Supe world about her, or who she could be and what's to come - prophecies. One Imp attacker tells her they will find her. The demons do not want her to rule and they are hunting her. Everyone in the supernatural world 'knows' of Jessica, except Jessica. She's still trying to adjust to just the wolf part and so much more as it surfaces as Jessica gets her lead on the goddess who's holding Rourke and she fights her way through hell's demons to get to him.
Quick start right back into the world with Jessica. Jessica starts right off throwing punches as she has always done all her life. Fighting to survive. Love the heart racing start early on, and holds to it through out.
Jessica's mind is made up and she won't let anyone stop her. The drive is pushing her. She will go through any and all sorts of hell to find and get Rourke, her mate, back. Jessica is so different and learning of the supernatural world, along with herself, as she goes. Even the world of demons, which the werewolves have never dealt with. New beings and creatures are going to come at the top-of-the-food-chain wolves, and they are going to have to get ready for it. With Jessica at their side.
Jessica is more powerful than she ever even imagined. And others are taking all this in along with what they can learn from the prophecies. Demons are surfacing, and in the end have Jessica on their short list.
Jessica makes new allies. Ones she might be grateful to have, but also ones that might cause a stir in the werewolf world, and maybe even the supernatural world as a whole. I really liked the new friends we come across here, and how they open up the supe world to us sharing knowledge. Wonderful new bonds created.
We end the book with questions of a few, but the story of finding Rourke is completed here. There are new happenings to come, and the ending sets those up to come. Dang, can't wait for Cold Blooded!!
Constant heart-racing read, keeping the heart pounding with fevered worry and anticipation as Jessica fights for her love, friends, and her life.
August 3, 2016
2.5 stars
Soul mates is not an unfamiliar idea. It happens pretty regularly in urban fantasy and para-romance, especially with Weres, so it's not a hard concept for me to swallow. Two people (creatures, whatever) meet, see stars and pink floaty hearts, and BOOM they simultaneously realize that they are perfect/meant for each other.
This normally happens in the first 20ish% of the book, and then the happy couple has to overcome various obstacles--obstacles that allow the relative strangers to get to know each other and grow the relationship beyond fate dictating major life choices. In the end, love (of course) prevails, at least until next time. Right? Right.
Wrong.
***SPOILERS***
In the first book of this series Jessica and Rourke don't actually meet until slightly past the midway point. They realize that they are mates pretty quickly, and then just as quickly they are separated for the remaining 40ish% with the very end setting up Jessica to rescue Rourke in the next book (this one). There was no getting to know each other or relationship development. There was an incredulous discovery of mated-ness almost immediately followed by an abduction of one of the mates by a spurned lover. The end.
Then we have this book. Rourke gets rescued around 75-80%, leaving the remainder to set up the next book, again with no getting to know each other or relationship development between the soul mates.
Maybe it's just me, but it's kind of difficult to care what happens to characters when there is no character development between the MCs. I care more about what happens to Naomi and Ray (two secondary characters--Naomi having only been introduced in this book) than what happens to Rourke, and that just doesn't leave me anxious for the next book.
So yeah. Overall I'm just kinda over it.
Soul mates is not an unfamiliar idea. It happens pretty regularly in urban fantasy and para-romance, especially with Weres, so it's not a hard concept for me to swallow. Two people (creatures, whatever) meet, see stars and pink floaty hearts, and BOOM they simultaneously realize that they are perfect/meant for each other.
This normally happens in the first 20ish% of the book, and then the happy couple has to overcome various obstacles--obstacles that allow the relative strangers to get to know each other and grow the relationship beyond fate dictating major life choices. In the end, love (of course) prevails, at least until next time. Right? Right.
Wrong.
***SPOILERS***
In the first book of this series Jessica and Rourke don't actually meet until slightly past the midway point. They realize that they are mates pretty quickly, and then just as quickly they are separated for the remaining 40ish% with the very end setting up Jessica to rescue Rourke in the next book (this one). There was no getting to know each other or relationship development. There was an incredulous discovery of mated-ness almost immediately followed by an abduction of one of the mates by a spurned lover. The end.
Then we have this book. Rourke gets rescued around 75-80%, leaving the remainder to set up the next book, again with no getting to know each other or relationship development between the soul mates.
Maybe it's just me, but it's kind of difficult to care what happens to characters when there is no character development between the MCs. I care more about what happens to Naomi and Ray (two secondary characters--Naomi having only been introduced in this book) than what happens to Rourke, and that just doesn't leave me anxious for the next book.
So yeah. Overall I'm just kinda over it.
September 9, 2017
This is a good book, but not as strong as the first book was. I'm curious to see if the series gets better in book three. Four glittery stars!
December 5, 2020
Actuall raiting: 1.5 star.
I did like the first book...but this was so long and boring...and meh? made me not wanting to continue the series sadly.
I did like the first book...but this was so long and boring...and meh? made me not wanting to continue the series sadly.
October 24, 2019
I'm glad to be back in Jessica McClain's world even if it's been ages since I read book one. I love the mythology that Carlson has created. I need to continue this series - and hopefully move on to book three soon than I managed to tackle this one.
April 18, 2013
Mon avis en Français
My English review
Since the end of the first volume I was impatient to rediscover the Jessica McClain's adventures. I must say that the first volume ended on a great event and I only wanted one thing after that: to continue the quest for our heroine to find her dear companion Rourke. This adventure will not be an easy one and it will lead us much further than she would have liked. But it is also a quest that will allow her to understand a part of herself and realize that she is much more different than what she thought.
Jessica is determined to find the man she is destined to, from the beginning of the book. However, she will learn a rather disconcerting news before leaving. Indeed, it seems that she is not only the center of the prophecy that has rocked her life but she is also in the center of another one much important, involving all the existing species. We can think that at least it would limit the negative image she has on the other wolves, if only she wasn’t now against all the creatures in the world. But this story doesn’t matter even if it puts her in an uncomfortable position. Her sole purpose is to find her soul mate. So she’ll travel across the country looking for him and face the goddess who has him to take him back with her. Jessica is also helped with the fun and flirty Danny, a werewolf of her pack; her brother Tyler; Ray, the policeman who especially dislikes our heroine and finally two vampires present to guide them through the land, right to their enemy. This mission will be filled with obstacles of all kinds, and it will force them to deal with multiple creatures they didn’t know anything about until now.
It was a great pleasure to meet all our heroes of the first volume and to see how they evolve in this book. Jessica will really change here and we have the opportunity to discover some new very intriguing powers. Of course, I'm sure this is far from being finished, but my curiosity is sharpened. She manages to do some pretty amazing and fascinating things and we wonder what her limit will be. I was so impatient for her to find Rourbe and therefore attend their reunion and I must that say I was not disappointed. Of course, we also expect a wonderful battle with our goddess and we definitely have it here for our greatest pleasure. Danny and Tyler are both always here for our heroine and they take their mission to protect her at heart. As for Ray, I must say that since the first book he was a character who irritated me and I was surprised to see a change in my feeling about him. He will have a lot of time to understand that what Jessica said, is not a lie, but he is incredibly useful for a human lost in the midst of creatures who surpasses him. It was pretty funny to see their verbal jousting, but also his determination and persistence even with the persons who could kill him in a flutter. Regarding our two vampires I really liked Naomi, but who coudn’t? However, for Eamon it is a different story. But back to our dear Naomi. It was very interesting to get to know her and understand who she really was. We do not expect to really enjoy her as much as she enters in the story, but she will prove herself loyal and attentive. She perfectly complements our small group and each of her revelations is very interesting. I really hope that we will be able to see her much in the next volume. I think the only thing I was a little disappointed about, was no being able to have the opportunity to see James but we understand that there is a purpose behind it and I can not wait to discover all that.
It was a very good second volume again and I must admit I really want to throw myself on the next one! The wait will be so long! I feel it! We find a mixture of action, adventure, battles, and of all kinds. You haven’t tried the series yet? You really need to! It’s a wonderful urban fantasy series.
My English review
Since the end of the first volume I was impatient to rediscover the Jessica McClain's adventures. I must say that the first volume ended on a great event and I only wanted one thing after that: to continue the quest for our heroine to find her dear companion Rourke. This adventure will not be an easy one and it will lead us much further than she would have liked. But it is also a quest that will allow her to understand a part of herself and realize that she is much more different than what she thought.
Jessica is determined to find the man she is destined to, from the beginning of the book. However, she will learn a rather disconcerting news before leaving. Indeed, it seems that she is not only the center of the prophecy that has rocked her life but she is also in the center of another one much important, involving all the existing species. We can think that at least it would limit the negative image she has on the other wolves, if only she wasn’t now against all the creatures in the world. But this story doesn’t matter even if it puts her in an uncomfortable position. Her sole purpose is to find her soul mate. So she’ll travel across the country looking for him and face the goddess who has him to take him back with her. Jessica is also helped with the fun and flirty Danny, a werewolf of her pack; her brother Tyler; Ray, the policeman who especially dislikes our heroine and finally two vampires present to guide them through the land, right to their enemy. This mission will be filled with obstacles of all kinds, and it will force them to deal with multiple creatures they didn’t know anything about until now.
It was a great pleasure to meet all our heroes of the first volume and to see how they evolve in this book. Jessica will really change here and we have the opportunity to discover some new very intriguing powers. Of course, I'm sure this is far from being finished, but my curiosity is sharpened. She manages to do some pretty amazing and fascinating things and we wonder what her limit will be. I was so impatient for her to find Rourbe and therefore attend their reunion and I must that say I was not disappointed. Of course, we also expect a wonderful battle with our goddess and we definitely have it here for our greatest pleasure. Danny and Tyler are both always here for our heroine and they take their mission to protect her at heart. As for Ray, I must say that since the first book he was a character who irritated me and I was surprised to see a change in my feeling about him. He will have a lot of time to understand that what Jessica said, is not a lie, but he is incredibly useful for a human lost in the midst of creatures who surpasses him. It was pretty funny to see their verbal jousting, but also his determination and persistence even with the persons who could kill him in a flutter. Regarding our two vampires I really liked Naomi, but who coudn’t? However, for Eamon it is a different story. But back to our dear Naomi. It was very interesting to get to know her and understand who she really was. We do not expect to really enjoy her as much as she enters in the story, but she will prove herself loyal and attentive. She perfectly complements our small group and each of her revelations is very interesting. I really hope that we will be able to see her much in the next volume. I think the only thing I was a little disappointed about, was no being able to have the opportunity to see James but we understand that there is a purpose behind it and I can not wait to discover all that.
It was a very good second volume again and I must admit I really want to throw myself on the next one! The wait will be so long! I feel it! We find a mixture of action, adventure, battles, and of all kinds. You haven’t tried the series yet? You really need to! It’s a wonderful urban fantasy series.
May 10, 2016
BOOK SYNOPSIS
Jessica McClain has just discovered she's the biggest threat the supernatural world has seen in over eight-hundred years, but there's only one thing on her mind - finding her mate. Rourke's been kidnapped by a wicked goddess and his only chance of survival lies in her hands.
Finding Rourke and defeating the goddess proves to be difficult enough, but when the Underworld comes calling and Jessica discovers she's accused of crimes she hasn't committed, the entire game changes. The price they are demanding for her freedom is too steep. There is no way she can ever pay it back.
My Thoughts
As others have pointed out Jessica does not have all the answers as to what is going on with her but she does a great job when each new thing is thrown at her to use what knowledge she does have to find a way to work things out and cope with her ever evolving werewolf powers as they appear.
I have not found a book that has dealt with these types of issues that a character faces in such a realistic no nonsense manner and it is very refreshing because despite being powerful Jessica is not "all powerful" or "all knowing" as some lead characters are portrayed.
This time Jessica is relying on dubious allies to help her in her quest to find her mate, Rourke's kidnapping has sent her world into a tailspin of the worst kind and to top it off she makes a deal with another supernatural that puts her in danger of losing more than she gained.
As the story progresses so does the acceleration at which Jessica's powers grow, they are truly awesome for her to wield once she and her wolf finally become one integrated entity and learn how to work together. The drawback being that she cuts herself off from her father, who as Pack Alpha should be strong enough to reach her no matter what, and when that keeps happening it puts him in the difficult position of letting her know that she may have to be cut loose from the Pack and any protection or help they could provide if she cannot control her beast fully as he certainly cannot seem to do so.
All the stress and the turmoil that Jessica faces in the race to save Rourke is magnified ten times over when she finds herself targeted by a demon lord from the Underworld who claims she is indeed a threat as she has recently been the cause of several minor demons deaths at her hands. All things considered the poor young werewolf just cannot seem to catch a break, however she does manage to hold her own throughout the story and it was fun to watch as she found out just how powerful she really is!
The fluid pace, the character growth that takes place for Jessica, the revelations that are unearthed and the solidly constructed action scenes all make up what is once again a very easy and totally terrific reading experience.
Not wanting to finish quickly it still went too fast once I started and man what a second book following hot on the heels of the first with just as much exciting action and twists and turns as we could hope for.
The next book in the series Cold Blooded releases around October 8th, 2013 and it partly take place in New Orleans so it should be really exciting and as yet there is no indication that there will be more books in the series after it but one can hope!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
April 20, 2013
Actual Rating: 3.5
The Prophecy of the True Lycan:
One shall walk again, above all others she is born;
Within her the beast shall lie, well hidden in True Form;
And from this day forth, the Children of the Night shall pay;
By her supreme rule, her righteous hand will slay,
Justice to all, as none are her equal;
The True Lycan will vanquish all evil.
*CAUTION: Might contain some spoilers*
I got sucked into Jessica McClain's world like a moth to a flame. After reading the prequel, Blooded, I fell in love with our tough as nails shifter; and reading Full Blooded left mi corazon palpitando at full speed, I wanted more.
Unfortunately for me, Hot Blooded left me as discombobulated as a fish out of water. The book takes off following the events of Full Blooded, Jessica has made an oath of fealty to the Vampire Queen and in return, she gets two of her best trackers to help Jessica on her quest to find Rourke. Who, if we remember correctly, has been taken captive by an evil Goddess determined to keep him away from Jessica, and all to herself. Armed with her Lycan prowess, two vampires, and two very HOT & SEXY members of PACK, Danny & Tyler, Jessica embarks on a journey to bring home her mate. But she encounters along the way a legion of supernaturals put in place to deter her. She also discovers and will have to come to terms with what it means to be the only full blooded female werewolf.
I loved that we got more Tyler & Danny time *swoons* As well as got to learn a bit more about the vamps. There were a lot new, and interesting supernatural beings that kind of freaked me out for a second though. The scorpers was one, and the demonic goats... seriously?
Our kick ass Jessica... I wanted to slap her around a time or two. I know this is her story and all, but the developments as it progressed regarding her status and Lycaness (?) left me feeling disconnected. I didn't expect her to take a backseat either, I realize she's got an indomitable will, but it's not fair to askjfidj!! *spoiler* :p The other issue I had with the book as well as our heroine, was the romance. While Rourke is gone from the better part of the story, the whole focus of Hot Blooded is to free him, and while the man intrigues me, I felt their love was way too rushed. I understand the whole "destined to be together concept y todo eso, but I would have loved to see Jessica & Rourke act less insta-love-ish and more wary, and get to know each other a little, ya know?
I think one of the things that will either make or break a lot of readers regarding Hot Blooded, is Jessica's Lycaness. It seems to me that everytime they're in some sort of predicament, Jessica comes to the rescue because she develops some sort of super power to vanquish whatever evil. I don't mind her prowess, cause that's just badass, and as I Jessica said, "how do you like me now, boys?" But it's only been a week in her new wolf skin, everything just seems to be too easy for her.
However, this wont deter me from continuing on. Not only does Jessica have a debt to repay the Vampire Queen, BUT her best witchy friend, Marcy has gone missing, and Pack's sexy-as-sin Second in Command, James has gone Rogue. Damn fucking cliffhangers!! >.< Cold Blooded releases October 8, 2013 *sigh*
*A copy was provided by the publisher for review purposes. As always all opinions are my own and I was not compensated in any way for this review.*
The Prophecy of the True Lycan:
One shall walk again, above all others she is born;
Within her the beast shall lie, well hidden in True Form;
And from this day forth, the Children of the Night shall pay;
By her supreme rule, her righteous hand will slay,
Justice to all, as none are her equal;
The True Lycan will vanquish all evil.
*CAUTION: Might contain some spoilers*
I got sucked into Jessica McClain's world like a moth to a flame. After reading the prequel, Blooded, I fell in love with our tough as nails shifter; and reading Full Blooded left mi corazon palpitando at full speed, I wanted more.
Unfortunately for me, Hot Blooded left me as discombobulated as a fish out of water. The book takes off following the events of Full Blooded, Jessica has made an oath of fealty to the Vampire Queen and in return, she gets two of her best trackers to help Jessica on her quest to find Rourke. Who, if we remember correctly, has been taken captive by an evil Goddess determined to keep him away from Jessica, and all to herself. Armed with her Lycan prowess, two vampires, and two very HOT & SEXY members of PACK, Danny & Tyler, Jessica embarks on a journey to bring home her mate. But she encounters along the way a legion of supernaturals put in place to deter her. She also discovers and will have to come to terms with what it means to be the only full blooded female werewolf.
I loved that we got more Tyler & Danny time *swoons* As well as got to learn a bit more about the vamps. There were a lot new, and interesting supernatural beings that kind of freaked me out for a second though. The scorpers was one, and the demonic goats... seriously?
Our kick ass Jessica... I wanted to slap her around a time or two. I know this is her story and all, but the developments as it progressed regarding her status and Lycaness (?) left me feeling disconnected. I didn't expect her to take a backseat either, I realize she's got an indomitable will, but it's not fair to askjfidj!! *spoiler* :p The other issue I had with the book as well as our heroine, was the romance. While Rourke is gone from the better part of the story, the whole focus of Hot Blooded is to free him, and while the man intrigues me, I felt their love was way too rushed. I understand the whole "destined to be together concept y todo eso, but I would have loved to see Jessica & Rourke act less insta-love-ish and more wary, and get to know each other a little, ya know?
I think one of the things that will either make or break a lot of readers regarding Hot Blooded, is Jessica's Lycaness. It seems to me that everytime they're in some sort of predicament, Jessica comes to the rescue because she develops some sort of super power to vanquish whatever evil. I don't mind her prowess, cause that's just badass, and as I Jessica said, "how do you like me now, boys?" But it's only been a week in her new wolf skin, everything just seems to be too easy for her.
However, this wont deter me from continuing on. Not only does Jessica have a debt to repay the Vampire Queen, BUT her best witchy friend, Marcy has gone missing, and Pack's sexy-as-sin Second in Command, James has gone Rogue. Damn fucking cliffhangers!! >.< Cold Blooded releases October 8, 2013 *sigh*
*A copy was provided by the publisher for review purposes. As always all opinions are my own and I was not compensated in any way for this review.*
April 22, 2013
Reviewed by Rabid Reads
Jessica McClain is back for round 2 and her Goddess nemesis better watch out because she’s now a semi-experienced, full blown werewolf with claws and she’s not afraid to use ‘em! I loved Hot Blooded! This book is the paranormal equivalent of Mission Impossible; Jessica faces-off against everything from über scary mega spider-scorpion monsters to goats in order to save her mate. Yes, you read that right; evil goats. Amanda Carlson has another page-turner on her hands with heaps of thrills, chills and wolfy intrigue.
There’s no rest for the only female werewolf and after a brief strategy session with her alpha, Jessica’s off again in a full out race against time to save her true love. First off, I just want to say how much I loved the role reversal in this book! Carlson axes the stereotypical “damsel in distress” storyline in favour of having the heroine rescue her man. Talk about girl power to the max! Having read Full Blooded months ago I was a little put off by the lack of a recap and found the opening set-up chapters a tad tedious but once the action took over (and it does, big time) I only had eyes for the prize.
Amanda continues to add layer upon layer of intrigue to her already rich lore. I seriously had to take notes while reading this book to keep track of all the connections being made. Jessica’s the equivalent of a werewolf wildcard because of her unique DNA which basically gives Carlson free reign to pull rabbit after rabbit out of her hat. As a result, there are tons of mind blowing game changers in this novel and I can’t wait to see how they all play out in future installments!
I really enjoyed how the story focuses on the small group of rescuers because it gives readers the chance to really get to know each of these characters as individuals and we also get to watch them grow as a team too. Nothing brings people together quite like life or death situations and there’s plenty of those in Hot Blooded. I have nothing but love for Jessica, Tyler and Danny but oddly enough, it was Ray and Naomi who held my attention the most. I liked the cop’s surly attitude and his resistance to all things paranormal; he’s unknowingly hilarious and I couldn’t help myself from getting a few laughs in at his expense.
Hot Blooded is only the tip of the iceberg in what is quickly becoming one of the best werewolf Urban Fantasy series around and with another book on the way in October; I predict that Amanda Carlson and Jessica McClain are going to dominate 2013!
Jessica McClain is back for round 2 and her Goddess nemesis better watch out because she’s now a semi-experienced, full blown werewolf with claws and she’s not afraid to use ‘em! I loved Hot Blooded! This book is the paranormal equivalent of Mission Impossible; Jessica faces-off against everything from über scary mega spider-scorpion monsters to goats in order to save her mate. Yes, you read that right; evil goats. Amanda Carlson has another page-turner on her hands with heaps of thrills, chills and wolfy intrigue.
There’s no rest for the only female werewolf and after a brief strategy session with her alpha, Jessica’s off again in a full out race against time to save her true love. First off, I just want to say how much I loved the role reversal in this book! Carlson axes the stereotypical “damsel in distress” storyline in favour of having the heroine rescue her man. Talk about girl power to the max! Having read Full Blooded months ago I was a little put off by the lack of a recap and found the opening set-up chapters a tad tedious but once the action took over (and it does, big time) I only had eyes for the prize.
Amanda continues to add layer upon layer of intrigue to her already rich lore. I seriously had to take notes while reading this book to keep track of all the connections being made. Jessica’s the equivalent of a werewolf wildcard because of her unique DNA which basically gives Carlson free reign to pull rabbit after rabbit out of her hat. As a result, there are tons of mind blowing game changers in this novel and I can’t wait to see how they all play out in future installments!
I really enjoyed how the story focuses on the small group of rescuers because it gives readers the chance to really get to know each of these characters as individuals and we also get to watch them grow as a team too. Nothing brings people together quite like life or death situations and there’s plenty of those in Hot Blooded. I have nothing but love for Jessica, Tyler and Danny but oddly enough, it was Ray and Naomi who held my attention the most. I liked the cop’s surly attitude and his resistance to all things paranormal; he’s unknowingly hilarious and I couldn’t help myself from getting a few laughs in at his expense.
Hot Blooded is only the tip of the iceberg in what is quickly becoming one of the best werewolf Urban Fantasy series around and with another book on the way in October; I predict that Amanda Carlson and Jessica McClain are going to dominate 2013!
October 26, 2014
3 1\2
Hot Blooded was a wild ride and a non-stop read, probably more that Full Blooded.
The plot is a classical of the fantasy set: a journey to reclaim a power object (in this case a powerful mate :). It was full of dangers, unexpected twists and obstacles to overcome. All of it in the modern settings of a UF world.
I'm still weirded out by the split personality the werewolves have in this world. Every time Jessica had a talk with her wolf, I thought of calling for help. < grin > But I love that the human Jessica can and will stop the wolf Jessica from rushing headlong into danger, living only on instinct. I do hope that as she grows on power and age this split personality disorder will disappear. :)
Talking of power, I understand she's going to be this Power to Be Reckoned With. The one the Prophecy talks about. It's still jarring to see her overcome every single obstacle without much fuss. I will sign on what Naysa said in her review:
If in Book One I was a little put off by the Others and their superiority complex, I was happy to see how each race has depth here. Both wolves and vamps have too much arrogance and feel themselves superior to the others. Humans can be even worse (see Ray), but all have redeeming qualities.
I'm not sure I care for this penchant Jessica has of collecting enemies as she goes. Some of it sounds pretty forced, while the allies aren't that defined. (She probably does collect them too. I think of the Naiad, if the author so chooses. But it's really muted.)
Giving what happens with the ending (ARGGHH, an other cliffhangers, blasted them), maybe the next book will be about building alliances against common enemies. We'll see in Cold Blooded coming in October, 2013.
DRC courtesy of NetGalley.
Hot Blooded was a wild ride and a non-stop read, probably more that Full Blooded.
The plot is a classical of the fantasy set: a journey to reclaim a power object (in this case a powerful mate :). It was full of dangers, unexpected twists and obstacles to overcome. All of it in the modern settings of a UF world.
I'm still weirded out by the split personality the werewolves have in this world. Every time Jessica had a talk with her wolf, I thought of calling for help. < grin > But I love that the human Jessica can and will stop the wolf Jessica from rushing headlong into danger, living only on instinct. I do hope that as she grows on power and age this split personality disorder will disappear. :)
Talking of power, I understand she's going to be this Power to Be Reckoned With. The one the Prophecy talks about. It's still jarring to see her overcome every single obstacle without much fuss. I will sign on what Naysa said in her review:
I want Jessica to be a tough kick-ass chick, not defeat every foe with goddess-like superpowers that conveniently show up when she needs them.I admit that the book I liked more in this series was the prequel, where a full human Jessica fought against all odds.
If in Book One I was a little put off by the Others and their superiority complex, I was happy to see how each race has depth here. Both wolves and vamps have too much arrogance and feel themselves superior to the others. Humans can be even worse (see Ray), but all have redeeming qualities.
I'm not sure I care for this penchant Jessica has of collecting enemies as she goes. Some of it sounds pretty forced, while the allies aren't that defined. (She probably does collect them too. I think of the Naiad, if the author so chooses. But it's really muted.)
Giving what happens with the ending (ARGGHH, an other cliffhangers, blasted them), maybe the next book will be about building alliances against common enemies. We'll see in Cold Blooded coming in October, 2013.
DRC courtesy of NetGalley.
October 24, 2012
Excellent second installment in the Jessica McClain series!!
May 30, 2013
Originally posted at: http://bastardbooks.blogspot.com/2013...
"Well I'm hot blooded, check it and see. I got a fever of a hundred and three..." sorry, couldn't help myself with a little bit of Foreigner, and I'm sure I'm not first one to lose control like this. I don't sing or dance, but I have a weak spot for 80s music. Much like a werewolf, I transform myself and this overwhelming urge just takes over. Which brings us to this novel, Jessica McClain is back and kicking ass as usual. Hot Blooded is the second novel in Amanda Carlson's urban fantasy series, and it doesn't disappoint.
The novel picks up right were Full Blooded left off. While Jessica's dad and Alpha goes to investigate the nature of a werewolf rebellion, she and a small group of old allies, new acquaintances, and one stubborn jackass go on a journey to save someone dear to her from the grasps of a powerful witch; a goddess. A female Lycan foreseen to create havoc in the supernatural world, her werewolf twin brother and a loyal werewolf friend, two not-so-friendly vampires, and the aforementioned jackass human detective...what can go wrong?
Hot Blooded was not what I was expecting. It's quite different in plot and structure to the first novel Full Blooded , which is good. I mean good because it conveys that Amanda Carlson is not afraid to do her own thing, and it alludes that she'll be keeping us on our toes on what to expect in future novels while keeping each installment unique and refreshing within her universe.
With a genre littered with mystery and thrillers, Hot Blooded was an invigorating Action-Adventure Urban Fantasy. It's the type of tale which we might find frequently in secondary world fantasies, the quest to save someone from the clutches of evil who is sequestered in a lair and the journey to surpass all the obstacles thrown in their way as they make progress to the destination. It had plenty of action, and as I've suggested previously, I really believe that Carlson has a knack to write good physical action sequences. It helps having a character that kicks ass and is not shy of meting a good dosage of extreme violence. And it worked.
It had a really straight-forward plot, and in this particular regard I liked the first novel better. That said, I enjoyed Hot Blooded more as a whole. I felt the characters came off as more comfortable in this world, the flow felt improved, and in all I thought it was better written. Plus there was a bigger focus on action this time around, so right up my alley. It helped set a brisk pace, but at the same time interposed with what I find to be long scenes.
The scenes are characterized by having an abundance of dialogue, something I always champion. I'm not entirely sure if the "correct" balance is there, but so far it's working for me, so I hesitate to encourage a different approach. I just can't help shake the feeling that if Carlson shortens some of these scenes a bit, particularly cutting a bit on some dialogue that can become a bit circuitous, that it'll provide other, and hopefully better, opportunities.
The pace doesn't seem to be affected much by it, so who knows. There was only one particular scene which I recall where the forward momentum of the novel had going for it just stopped as they reached a certain trap with some beings behaving like flying piranhas. At the same time, it was during this portion that most of the important plot elements that would increase the intrigue and tension of the story occurred. It's also during this portion that most of the character development flourished, so it doesn't feel like a wasted opportunity at all. So the only conclusion I can come up with is that I'm a bit of a walking hypocritical contradiction. Just hope that something in this babble makes a semblance of sense.
Going back to the action, this time around there was a bigger focus on magic clashes. Depicted more as a battle of wills rather than physical and explosive type of spells, not that it was absent of the latter. I wouldn't go as far as say that it became too magic focused, but it became quite apparent that it took the spotlight in this novel. Considering the plot, it fit. We're dealing with a powerful witch after all, it is my hope though that it doesn't become as common place in the future as I think it takes away some of what makes the Jessica werewolf an awesome character to read about. I mean, there's just some quite awesome of seeing Jessica take care of some of her opponents with quiet violent efficiency; a broken neck here, an armed ripped-off there. There are some hints about Jessica's potential though that sounds promising, so will be looking forward to how the character adapts to each new circumstance.
The journey to the evil lair was defined by a few traps with "random monsters". Personally, I'm not a big fan of them, as they usually seem a bit impersonal to me, but I know plenty of people love them. But once again, for this novel it worked, in particular because it enhanced the world-building immensely, and the action was good too. I particularly like some creatures that were water based, and I hope we can see them in some fashion in future novels.
There really wasn't any romance in this one at all, to the delight of some (me) and the chagrin of others. Well, can't please everyone, but I'm not complaining. I was more excited about the fact that the author appeased some of my concerns about how Jessica would react to certain developments. It had the potential to become a very angsty story, which I thought would have really ruined Jessica as a character for me, but this wasn't the case at all. I don't know what the future will hold on this regard, but I think Amanda Carlson is doing a very good job so far on balancing all the different potential elements this series has. I know some are fond of the love interest in this one, but I'm not convinced I like the guy all that much yet, so we'll see.
The novel ends with another cliffhanger, in many ways quite similar to the one which ended Full Blooded . I'm a fan of cliffhangers in a series though I'm quite aware that some have a strong dislike for them. The good thing is that the next novel is coming out within a few months, so the wait won't be long.
Considering the cliffhanger, Amanda Carlson is keeping Jessica quite busy with no time to breathe; jumping from one thing to another, solving one crisis just to jump into the next one. I don't see that changing any time soon considering how the novel ended and other set-ups that have been made. At some point I hope we can slow down for a bit because there's a lot of Jessica's life that I'm eager to find out about, and I think that can only be accomplished if we slow the action down for a bit, which goes against all my instincts of what I enjoy reading. But I'm very interested in seeing Jessica, even if it's for a short while, in a normal daily routine, and seeing her surrounded by her dad's pack, and see the different interactions and interplays that could go on in that environment.
Hot Blooded was a great follow-up to Carlson's debut. It showed us a different side to the series, and together with the highly energetic narrating style from Jessica McClain to go with the reliable violent action, it just provides a winning combination that should be sustained for the rest of the series. Keep an eye out for Hot Blooded coming out soon, I know I'll be reading it as soon as I can get my hands on it.
"Well I'm hot blooded, check it and see. I got a fever of a hundred and three..." sorry, couldn't help myself with a little bit of Foreigner, and I'm sure I'm not first one to lose control like this. I don't sing or dance, but I have a weak spot for 80s music. Much like a werewolf, I transform myself and this overwhelming urge just takes over. Which brings us to this novel, Jessica McClain is back and kicking ass as usual. Hot Blooded is the second novel in Amanda Carlson's urban fantasy series, and it doesn't disappoint.
The novel picks up right were Full Blooded left off. While Jessica's dad and Alpha goes to investigate the nature of a werewolf rebellion, she and a small group of old allies, new acquaintances, and one stubborn jackass go on a journey to save someone dear to her from the grasps of a powerful witch; a goddess. A female Lycan foreseen to create havoc in the supernatural world, her werewolf twin brother and a loyal werewolf friend, two not-so-friendly vampires, and the aforementioned jackass human detective...what can go wrong?
Hot Blooded was not what I was expecting. It's quite different in plot and structure to the first novel Full Blooded , which is good. I mean good because it conveys that Amanda Carlson is not afraid to do her own thing, and it alludes that she'll be keeping us on our toes on what to expect in future novels while keeping each installment unique and refreshing within her universe.
With a genre littered with mystery and thrillers, Hot Blooded was an invigorating Action-Adventure Urban Fantasy. It's the type of tale which we might find frequently in secondary world fantasies, the quest to save someone from the clutches of evil who is sequestered in a lair and the journey to surpass all the obstacles thrown in their way as they make progress to the destination. It had plenty of action, and as I've suggested previously, I really believe that Carlson has a knack to write good physical action sequences. It helps having a character that kicks ass and is not shy of meting a good dosage of extreme violence. And it worked.
It had a really straight-forward plot, and in this particular regard I liked the first novel better. That said, I enjoyed Hot Blooded more as a whole. I felt the characters came off as more comfortable in this world, the flow felt improved, and in all I thought it was better written. Plus there was a bigger focus on action this time around, so right up my alley. It helped set a brisk pace, but at the same time interposed with what I find to be long scenes.
The scenes are characterized by having an abundance of dialogue, something I always champion. I'm not entirely sure if the "correct" balance is there, but so far it's working for me, so I hesitate to encourage a different approach. I just can't help shake the feeling that if Carlson shortens some of these scenes a bit, particularly cutting a bit on some dialogue that can become a bit circuitous, that it'll provide other, and hopefully better, opportunities.
The pace doesn't seem to be affected much by it, so who knows. There was only one particular scene which I recall where the forward momentum of the novel had going for it just stopped as they reached a certain trap with some beings behaving like flying piranhas. At the same time, it was during this portion that most of the important plot elements that would increase the intrigue and tension of the story occurred. It's also during this portion that most of the character development flourished, so it doesn't feel like a wasted opportunity at all. So the only conclusion I can come up with is that I'm a bit of a walking hypocritical contradiction. Just hope that something in this babble makes a semblance of sense.
Going back to the action, this time around there was a bigger focus on magic clashes. Depicted more as a battle of wills rather than physical and explosive type of spells, not that it was absent of the latter. I wouldn't go as far as say that it became too magic focused, but it became quite apparent that it took the spotlight in this novel. Considering the plot, it fit. We're dealing with a powerful witch after all, it is my hope though that it doesn't become as common place in the future as I think it takes away some of what makes the Jessica werewolf an awesome character to read about. I mean, there's just some quite awesome of seeing Jessica take care of some of her opponents with quiet violent efficiency; a broken neck here, an armed ripped-off there. There are some hints about Jessica's potential though that sounds promising, so will be looking forward to how the character adapts to each new circumstance.
The journey to the evil lair was defined by a few traps with "random monsters". Personally, I'm not a big fan of them, as they usually seem a bit impersonal to me, but I know plenty of people love them. But once again, for this novel it worked, in particular because it enhanced the world-building immensely, and the action was good too. I particularly like some creatures that were water based, and I hope we can see them in some fashion in future novels.
There really wasn't any romance in this one at all, to the delight of some (me) and the chagrin of others. Well, can't please everyone, but I'm not complaining. I was more excited about the fact that the author appeased some of my concerns about how Jessica would react to certain developments. It had the potential to become a very angsty story, which I thought would have really ruined Jessica as a character for me, but this wasn't the case at all. I don't know what the future will hold on this regard, but I think Amanda Carlson is doing a very good job so far on balancing all the different potential elements this series has. I know some are fond of the love interest in this one, but I'm not convinced I like the guy all that much yet, so we'll see.
The novel ends with another cliffhanger, in many ways quite similar to the one which ended Full Blooded . I'm a fan of cliffhangers in a series though I'm quite aware that some have a strong dislike for them. The good thing is that the next novel is coming out within a few months, so the wait won't be long.
Considering the cliffhanger, Amanda Carlson is keeping Jessica quite busy with no time to breathe; jumping from one thing to another, solving one crisis just to jump into the next one. I don't see that changing any time soon considering how the novel ended and other set-ups that have been made. At some point I hope we can slow down for a bit because there's a lot of Jessica's life that I'm eager to find out about, and I think that can only be accomplished if we slow the action down for a bit, which goes against all my instincts of what I enjoy reading. But I'm very interested in seeing Jessica, even if it's for a short while, in a normal daily routine, and seeing her surrounded by her dad's pack, and see the different interactions and interplays that could go on in that environment.
Hot Blooded was a great follow-up to Carlson's debut. It showed us a different side to the series, and together with the highly energetic narrating style from Jessica McClain to go with the reliable violent action, it just provides a winning combination that should be sustained for the rest of the series. Keep an eye out for Hot Blooded coming out soon, I know I'll be reading it as soon as I can get my hands on it.
June 9, 2013
Initial thoughts:
4.5 stars+ - This one went from 0 to 60 in no time flat. Lots of action, bat-like demons, zombie mountain goats, and a psychotic goddess. This is fast becoming one of my favorite urban fantasy series.
My Review: I hate to sound repetitive but WOW and DOUBLE-WOW!
This series has become a new favorite for me. There’s something appealing about a strong female character, especially when she is thrown into a predominantly male werewolf culture. Add in the fact that she is the only female werewolf of her kind and that makes her all the more special.
This book picks up right where Full Blooded left off. Jessica is still adjusting to her new strengths and abilities as a newborn werewolf. She is learning to manage and cooperate with her inner wolf and at the same time Jessica needs to hunt down the cruel and sadistic goddess Selene. Aided by her brother Tyler, hunky werewolf Daniel, vampire siblings Eamon and Naomi, and a reluctant human Ray, Jessica sets off to confront Selene in her mountain lair.
The journey to Selene’s mountain hide-out is fraught with danger and magical booby traps set to kill. The action is non-stop. As each obstacle is neutralized or vanquished, another appears. In many ways, this book reminded me of a video game with each monster or obstacle representing a different level. Kudos to the author for creating such a mythological monster-packed tale! This book has creatures for every taste – from demon bats to giant golem type rock monsters to zombie goats – and more.
I loved the characters, especially Jessica. Right from the start you realize just how unique she is. Jessica has a lot of compassion and values the lives around her. I was amazed by her wanting to keep her human nemesis Ray alive, despite all the times he dogged her when she was a detective. As she discovers her powers and abilities, Jessica makes sure that she retains her humanity. Her dominion over of her wolf is incredible; most newborn wolves cannot have that kind of control. The partial shifting is really cool, too. I can’t wait to find out exactly what Jessica really is.
And we do need to talk about villains because Selene is up there in the Nasty Evil Villains of all-time list. Selene is a bloodthirsty goddess, bent on destroying Jessica and those she loves. Selene’s magic is powerful and deadly and she makes a worthy adversary.
This series gets better and better with each subsequent book. I was literally on the edge of my seat from cover to cover. My only little tiny criticism is that abrupt ending. It left me wanting more! I can’t wait for Cold Blooded – coming soon in October 2013.
Recommended for fans of Kelley Armstrong’s Women of the Otherworld series (especially Elena and Clay lovers), Rachel Vincent’s Shifters series, and Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on Badass Book Reviews.
My Review: I hate to sound repetitive but WOW and DOUBLE-WOW!
This series has become a new favorite for me. There’s something appealing about a strong female character, especially when she is thrown into a predominantly male werewolf culture. Add in the fact that she is the only female werewolf of her kind and that makes her all the more special.
This book picks up right where Full Blooded left off. Jessica is still adjusting to her new strengths and abilities as a newborn werewolf. She is learning to manage and cooperate with her inner wolf and at the same time Jessica needs to hunt down the cruel and sadistic goddess Selene. Aided by her brother Tyler, hunky werewolf Daniel, vampire siblings Eamon and Naomi, and a reluctant human Ray, Jessica sets off to confront Selene in her mountain lair.
The journey to Selene’s mountain hide-out is fraught with danger and magical booby traps set to kill. The action is non-stop. As each obstacle is neutralized or vanquished, another appears. In many ways, this book reminded me of a video game with each monster or obstacle representing a different level. Kudos to the author for creating such a mythological monster-packed tale! This book has creatures for every taste – from demon bats to giant golem type rock monsters to zombie goats – and more.
I loved the characters, especially Jessica. Right from the start you realize just how unique she is. Jessica has a lot of compassion and values the lives around her. I was amazed by her wanting to keep her human nemesis Ray alive, despite all the times he dogged her when she was a detective. As she discovers her powers and abilities, Jessica makes sure that she retains her humanity. Her dominion over of her wolf is incredible; most newborn wolves cannot have that kind of control. The partial shifting is really cool, too. I can’t wait to find out exactly what Jessica really is.
And we do need to talk about villains because Selene is up there in the Nasty Evil Villains of all-time list. Selene is a bloodthirsty goddess, bent on destroying Jessica and those she loves. Selene’s magic is powerful and deadly and she makes a worthy adversary.
This series gets better and better with each subsequent book. I was literally on the edge of my seat from cover to cover. My only little tiny criticism is that abrupt ending. It left me wanting more! I can’t wait for Cold Blooded – coming soon in October 2013.
Recommended for fans of Kelley Armstrong’s Women of the Otherworld series (especially Elena and Clay lovers), Rachel Vincent’s Shifters series, and Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on Badass Book Reviews.
May 21, 2013
Initially starting this i did not remember the events of the first book . It was easy to follow the events and be up to date based on various explanations that i was thankful for .
Let me just this series has improved and I'm so proud of the author . I felt the first book was flat compared to this , i felt so much Badassness was going on all sides that it really got me pumped.
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This story flowed IMO very well, It had excitements , clues were given and secrets were found out in the right place without becoming tedious or taking too long to develop. I was really impressed with that.
Jessica.
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I love this girl , she kicks major ass . She's fierce , loyal , headstrong and did i mention Loyal? I felt that she didn't make those pesky mistakes that my usual TSTL heroines make and for that i am profoundly grateful.
She is so badass. :D
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I cant wait to see the rest of her development.
Roarke
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Even though he wasn't featured much in this installment ,his presence was felt very strongly and when he did show up IT WAS AWESOME!!
Honestly their were very little negatives except i felt the ending was kinda all over the place. She went from a major fight into another major fight , No matter how powerful she is , everybody needs rest.I understand the author was leading for the next book , but she needs to give Jess and Roake some major steamy alone time :D
Pleeeeeaseeeee ;;)
4.5 stars
Let me just this series has improved and I'm so proud of the author . I felt the first book was flat compared to this , i felt so much Badassness was going on all sides that it really got me pumped.
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This story flowed IMO very well, It had excitements , clues were given and secrets were found out in the right place without becoming tedious or taking too long to develop. I was really impressed with that.
Jessica.
[image error]
I love this girl , she kicks major ass . She's fierce , loyal , headstrong and did i mention Loyal? I felt that she didn't make those pesky mistakes that my usual TSTL heroines make and for that i am profoundly grateful.
She is so badass. :D
[image error]
I cant wait to see the rest of her development.
Roarke
[image error]
Even though he wasn't featured much in this installment ,his presence was felt very strongly and when he did show up IT WAS AWESOME!!
Honestly their were very little negatives except i felt the ending was kinda all over the place. She went from a major fight into another major fight , No matter how powerful she is , everybody needs rest.I understand the author was leading for the next book , but she needs to give Jess and Roake some major steamy alone time :D
Pleeeeeaseeeee ;;)
4.5 stars
May 30, 2013
This is really 2.5 stars. I feel as though the author was out of her depths here. This series started off so well but book 2 felt like a huge info dump. Jessica is now a super-special full blooded werewolf that can do no wrong but that everyone hates. She has magic and great power that she does not understand. Jessica spends this whole book on a quest to retrieve her mate from the clutches of an evil which (cackle cackle) with 2 other werewolves, 2 vampires and a human. She knows nothing of the other supernatural sects aside from her own. Since she was always a bit of an outcast before she became a full blooded werewolf, this makes sense. How come no one else around her knows anything? You mean to tell me with all these long lived supernatural creatures running around none of them take the time to learn about their enemies? A lot of the action in this book is interrupted w/ dialogue about what everyone thinks is happening when they are faced with blockades the evil witch throws at them. There is lots of talking and speculation taking place because none of these dummies knows for sure what’s going on.
Jessica: Maybe it’s a siren or a sea monster
Tyler: Maybe it’s or a seal?
Me: Maybe a whale farted. Who cares? Get back to the task at hand.
Of course all the guessing eventually leads to the right answer and our merry band of monsters are victorious despite their extreme lack of knowledge. The dialogue during the action scenes were the worst. The momentum would just die mid scene b/c they had to stop and discuss what was actually happening at that moment.
Jessical: OMG. Bats are eating Niaomi’s face
Merry Monster: No, those are not regular bats. They must be bats from the Underworld
Jessica: Really! I didn’t know the Underworld had bats.
Merry Monster: Yea, they can kill you and are almost impossible to kill.
Jessica: Wow. I should really read up on other supernaturals.
HELLO? What about the killer bats eating Naiomi’s face? All the action is lost reading about all the shit Jessica doesn’t know. Seriously they have whole conversations about shit they don’t know while real shit is going down. It was so frustrating. I just wanted to end 1/3 of the way through.
I also feel the world building is convoluted and a little half ass. Like the author is just making things up as she goes along. It’s all very strange. There is a Cain Myth and a Prophecy that are not the same thing yet they both are about Jessica. The supernaturals don’t interact but Niaomi is quick to befriend Jessica. Oaths and vows are being made every 10 pages. The big bad that appears at the very of the book made very little sense given what we already know about the world. I’m not the biggest fan of this world.
I may give this series one more book but if it does not improve, I’m out.
Jessica: Maybe it’s a siren or a sea monster
Tyler: Maybe it’s or a seal?
Me: Maybe a whale farted. Who cares? Get back to the task at hand.
Of course all the guessing eventually leads to the right answer and our merry band of monsters are victorious despite their extreme lack of knowledge. The dialogue during the action scenes were the worst. The momentum would just die mid scene b/c they had to stop and discuss what was actually happening at that moment.
Jessical: OMG. Bats are eating Niaomi’s face
Merry Monster: No, those are not regular bats. They must be bats from the Underworld
Jessica: Really! I didn’t know the Underworld had bats.
Merry Monster: Yea, they can kill you and are almost impossible to kill.
Jessica: Wow. I should really read up on other supernaturals.
HELLO? What about the killer bats eating Naiomi’s face? All the action is lost reading about all the shit Jessica doesn’t know. Seriously they have whole conversations about shit they don’t know while real shit is going down. It was so frustrating. I just wanted to end 1/3 of the way through.
I also feel the world building is convoluted and a little half ass. Like the author is just making things up as she goes along. It’s all very strange. There is a Cain Myth and a Prophecy that are not the same thing yet they both are about Jessica. The supernaturals don’t interact but Niaomi is quick to befriend Jessica. Oaths and vows are being made every 10 pages. The big bad that appears at the very of the book made very little sense given what we already know about the world. I’m not the biggest fan of this world.
I may give this series one more book but if it does not improve, I’m out.
April 28, 2013
It's an action-packed ride in this second installment of the Jessica McClain series. The story begins with our heroine chomping at the bit to save her mate and things do not slow down once between the first page and the last.
First off, let me say that if you haven't read Full Blooded, I urge you start there. This book is a continuation of that one --and while this has a self-contained mission, it all hinges on the events of the first installment. There is a little bit of backstory mixed in, but not much.
Basically, the entire book is about Jessica's journey to rescue Rourke from the clutches of the evil Goddess Selene, who kidnapped him. She takes along her brother and one other wolf --along with her human nemesis and general PITA Ray-- plus two vampire guides names Eamon and Naomi. Their path is full of traps and landmines laid out by Selene. As Jess overcomes one after another, she (and we) learn more about her strengths as a Lycan, and what that means in relation to the prophecies about her.
I like Jess. She is very powerful, but is determined to hold on to her humanity. She not only wants to do the right thing, she puts her money where her mouth is, even when it's hard. But the real highlight of the book for me was Naomi. She was not what I expected and I grew to really like her. And Ray... well, I think there is more to Ray than meets the eye somehow. (I could be totally off-base on that, but time will tell.)
Here's the thing, though. I liked the book, but didn't love it the way some of my fellow reviewers did. It's well written; the pacing is good; the world-building is solid. But I don't feel an emotional connection to the characters. I like them. But I don't feel their feelings. Yes, I know Jess wants to get Rourke back, and thinking about him makes her wolf run in circles, but I don't feel a crushing weight or fear of a life without him. (Frankly, their time together as mates lasted about as long as a sneeze, so maybe that has something to do with it.) It's not just about Rourke, though. It's deep feeling for anything, everything. Her thoughts and feelings are intellectually conveyed to me, but it's missing that intangible thing that makes me feel like I am not only inside Jessica's head, but her heart.
It is a good read, though. It kept me interested and invested in how it would all play out. And Amanda Carlson does a great job laying the groundwork for the next battle ahead. It looks like another exciting ride.
Rating: B
*ARC Provided by Orbit
First off, let me say that if you haven't read Full Blooded, I urge you start there. This book is a continuation of that one --and while this has a self-contained mission, it all hinges on the events of the first installment. There is a little bit of backstory mixed in, but not much.
Basically, the entire book is about Jessica's journey to rescue Rourke from the clutches of the evil Goddess Selene, who kidnapped him. She takes along her brother and one other wolf --along with her human nemesis and general PITA Ray-- plus two vampire guides names Eamon and Naomi. Their path is full of traps and landmines laid out by Selene. As Jess overcomes one after another, she (and we) learn more about her strengths as a Lycan, and what that means in relation to the prophecies about her.
I like Jess. She is very powerful, but is determined to hold on to her humanity. She not only wants to do the right thing, she puts her money where her mouth is, even when it's hard. But the real highlight of the book for me was Naomi. She was not what I expected and I grew to really like her. And Ray... well, I think there is more to Ray than meets the eye somehow. (I could be totally off-base on that, but time will tell.)
Here's the thing, though. I liked the book, but didn't love it the way some of my fellow reviewers did. It's well written; the pacing is good; the world-building is solid. But I don't feel an emotional connection to the characters. I like them. But I don't feel their feelings. Yes, I know Jess wants to get Rourke back, and thinking about him makes her wolf run in circles, but I don't feel a crushing weight or fear of a life without him. (Frankly, their time together as mates lasted about as long as a sneeze, so maybe that has something to do with it.) It's not just about Rourke, though. It's deep feeling for anything, everything. Her thoughts and feelings are intellectually conveyed to me, but it's missing that intangible thing that makes me feel like I am not only inside Jessica's head, but her heart.
It is a good read, though. It kept me interested and invested in how it would all play out. And Amanda Carlson does a great job laying the groundwork for the next battle ahead. It looks like another exciting ride.
Rating: B
*ARC Provided by Orbit
August 3, 2015
12/1 - Considerably better than the first. Hot Blooded was action full speed from the opening pages. I love me a good 'special girl is really special' story, and this was a fantastic example of that genre. I loved how Jessica's powers kept confounding people with their strength, and the way the bad guys kept saying (although not in so many words) "You can't beat me." to which she would reply (again, not in so many words, except in reply to Selene's taunts) "Just watch me!"
There were a couple of questionable metaphors (or similes, I always get those two confused) - "She smiled like a shrew." for example. I'm not even sure which shrew she's referring to, the mole or the fishwife. In the mole's case, I seriously doubt shrews can smile, I don't think their mouths go that way. In the fishwife's case, smiling is not the first expression that comes to mind when I think of a shrew, scowling or screaming maybe, but not smiling. Either way, that's not the best way to describe what type of smile a person (or in this case vampire) is giving. I had to go back and re-read it, and then think about how a shrew (in whichever case) would smile, I couldn't come up with an image of it. Bad simile (I looked it up, it's a simile when the word 'like' is used) is bad.
Despite this, and a couple of examples of badly worded sentences that I didn't bother taking note of due to the aforementioned non-stop action, I was completely immersed in the story. The story covers Jessica, Danny, Tyler, and the vamp twins' journey to recover Rourke from Selene's evil clutches. At every turn there's a new, previously unknown evil beast from hell that needs to be defeated - venomous vampire bats, naiads, spider/scorpion hybrids, laser-eyed zombie goats (really?) and finally Selene herself. And at every turn Jessica's powers prove themselves stronger than anything this deranged goddess can put in their path. Jessica gets a pack (mini though it is), becomes a queen (though she doesn't want the honour), and defeats that goddess, all without any permanent damage (not counting psychological). This was definitely better than the first and I can't wait to read the next one!
PopSugar 2015 Reading Challenge: A Book You Can Finish in a Day
There were a couple of questionable metaphors (or similes, I always get those two confused) - "She smiled like a shrew." for example. I'm not even sure which shrew she's referring to, the mole or the fishwife. In the mole's case, I seriously doubt shrews can smile, I don't think their mouths go that way. In the fishwife's case, smiling is not the first expression that comes to mind when I think of a shrew, scowling or screaming maybe, but not smiling. Either way, that's not the best way to describe what type of smile a person (or in this case vampire) is giving. I had to go back and re-read it, and then think about how a shrew (in whichever case) would smile, I couldn't come up with an image of it. Bad simile (I looked it up, it's a simile when the word 'like' is used) is bad.
Despite this, and a couple of examples of badly worded sentences that I didn't bother taking note of due to the aforementioned non-stop action, I was completely immersed in the story. The story covers Jessica, Danny, Tyler, and the vamp twins' journey to recover Rourke from Selene's evil clutches. At every turn there's a new, previously unknown evil beast from hell that needs to be defeated - venomous vampire bats, naiads, spider/scorpion hybrids, laser-eyed zombie goats (really?) and finally Selene herself. And at every turn Jessica's powers prove themselves stronger than anything this deranged goddess can put in their path. Jessica gets a pack (mini though it is), becomes a queen (though she doesn't want the honour), and defeats that goddess, all without any permanent damage (not counting psychological). This was definitely better than the first and I can't wait to read the next one!
PopSugar 2015 Reading Challenge: A Book You Can Finish in a Day
April 3, 2014
For this review and more visit my blog The Accidental Reader
Here, Jessica tries to save her mate. Escorted by two vampires, two werewolves and one angry human, Jessica sets out to save Rourke from one sadistic and vengeful goddess.
May I just say I LOVED this book.
There is a fair share (the lion's share) of world building here. We encounter demons, bats, mermaids (of sorts), spiders, ants, magic, and a little witch's potions. Furthermore, we learn of the system- the hierarchy between the sects and who controls and enforce laws on all the sects, we also learn how one achieve the status of a goddess. There is more character development as we get to know some of them better.
There is lots (!!) of action, for those of you that like fighting scenes, some hard decisions are made and some new alliances are forged.
There are only few things to complain about, but complain I shall-
First of all, the romance; Jessica and Rourke had a brief encounter before he was kidnapped. Thus their relationship didn’t develop much. As the whole book si about saving him from the goddess, you can guess how much development can possible be here (almost none).
Secondly, while I appreciate information and good dialogues as much as the next person. When a killing scene takes too long because everybody is too damn busy with talking you can guess how irritating this might become.
Thirdly, in case you find yourself not liking this book and consider a drinking game- each time someone threatens to kill someone else you are most welcome to drink. Considering, of course, that you'll take small gulpes or you have a high tolerance for alcohol. Another option is drinking each time someone threatens to kill the human. Or whenever a vampire says that something is impossible to achieve. Both will get you happily drunk quite fast, so still don't use a strong drink.
One thing I really lived is that we learn more about the prophesy and that Jessica grows into her own power.
A review copy was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley. Thank you!
Here, Jessica tries to save her mate. Escorted by two vampires, two werewolves and one angry human, Jessica sets out to save Rourke from one sadistic and vengeful goddess.
May I just say I LOVED this book.
There is a fair share (the lion's share) of world building here. We encounter demons, bats, mermaids (of sorts), spiders, ants, magic, and a little witch's potions. Furthermore, we learn of the system- the hierarchy between the sects and who controls and enforce laws on all the sects, we also learn how one achieve the status of a goddess. There is more character development as we get to know some of them better.
There is lots (!!) of action, for those of you that like fighting scenes, some hard decisions are made and some new alliances are forged.
There are only few things to complain about, but complain I shall-
First of all, the romance; Jessica and Rourke had a brief encounter before he was kidnapped. Thus their relationship didn’t develop much. As the whole book si about saving him from the goddess, you can guess how much development can possible be here (almost none).
Secondly, while I appreciate information and good dialogues as much as the next person. When a killing scene takes too long because everybody is too damn busy with talking you can guess how irritating this might become.
Thirdly, in case you find yourself not liking this book and consider a drinking game- each time someone threatens to kill someone else you are most welcome to drink. Considering, of course, that you'll take small gulpes or you have a high tolerance for alcohol. Another option is drinking each time someone threatens to kill the human. Or whenever a vampire says that something is impossible to achieve. Both will get you happily drunk quite fast, so still don't use a strong drink.
One thing I really lived is that we learn more about the prophesy and that Jessica grows into her own power.
A review copy was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley. Thank you!
November 5, 2013
Even better than the last book!
Now on to book 3 :)
Now on to book 3 :)
May 18, 2018
"Who had a pickax handy, dangling on a wall? A deranged goddess, that's who."
I continue to be astounded by the full-on supernatural world we've got here. It's focused on werewolves, but there are also: Witches, Demons, Were-(Foxes, Weasels and Cats to name a few...), Vampires, mythological Gods and Goddesses and there was just a tiny mention of fey in this installment.
We continue to be pulled along, which is to say, we are running at full speed and are begging to stop because we have to pee real quick, but there's just no time!. Jessica seems to make new friends and new enemies everywhere she sets foot. Both are accumulating at alarming speed. I'm loving every second of it.
I continue to be astounded by the full-on supernatural world we've got here. It's focused on werewolves, but there are also: Witches, Demons, Were-(Foxes, Weasels and Cats to name a few...), Vampires, mythological Gods and Goddesses and there was just a tiny mention of fey in this installment.
We continue to be pulled along, which is to say, we are running at full speed and are begging to stop because we have to pee real quick, but there's just no time!. Jessica seems to make new friends and new enemies everywhere she sets foot. Both are accumulating at alarming speed. I'm loving every second of it.
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