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Walker Papers #4
Walking Dead
For once, Joanne Walker's not out to save the world.
She's come to terms with the host of shamanic powers she's been given, her job as a police detective has been relatively calm, and she's got a love life for the first time in memory. Not bad for a woman who started out the year mostly dead. But it's Halloween, and the undead have just crashed Joanne's party.
Now, with her mentor Coyote still missing, she has to figure out how to break the spell that has let the ghosts, zombies and even the Wild Hunt come back. Unfortunately, there's no shamanic handbook explaining how to deal with the walking dead. And if they have anything to say about it--which they do --no one's getting out of there alive.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
167 people are currently reading
2021 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Murphy
97 books1,796 followersCE Murphy began writing around age six, when she submitted three poems to a school publication. The teacher producing the magazine selected (inevitably) the one she thought was by far the worst, but also told her–a six year old kid–to keep writing, which she has. She has also held the usual grab-bag of jobs usually seen in an authorial biography, including public library volunteer (at ages 9 and 10; it’s clear she was doomed to a career involving books), archival assistant, cannery worker, and web designer. Writing books is better.
She was born and raised in Alaska, and now lives with her family in her ancestral homeland of Ireland.
She also writes paranormal romance as Murphy Lawless and cozy mysteries as Catie Murphy.
She was born and raised in Alaska, and now lives with her family in her ancestral homeland of Ireland.
She also writes paranormal romance as Murphy Lawless and cozy mysteries as Catie Murphy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
January 29, 2018
Pretty good series.
It drags a bit, true, like all PNR series, but it's fun and I like the characters. Worth trying out at least!
It drags a bit, true, like all PNR series, but it's fun and I like the characters. Worth trying out at least!
May 18, 2011
**3.5**
It's been quite some time since I've visited Joanne Walker's world. Walking Dead did much to remind me what I love about the series - and what annoys me about it.
Murphy's concept is great. The combination of Native American and Celtic folklore is a plus for this series, as it creates a wide landscape for the characters to explore. It also allows for an interconnectedness between varying mythologies; in Joanne's Seattle, most world-concepts exist side by side. I enjoy stories in which different belief systems are given weight. However, I fear Murphy will keep pulling on the same few pieces of lore. With so much to draw from, it would be a shame not to explore different legends and how they relate.
In addition, I wish she'd present a more concrete view of the Powers That Be and magic in general, but I suppose our lack of understanding fittingly echoes Joanne's. Although Murphy has gotten better at describing Jo's magic, the character is still fumbling through. I'm glad she's finally embraced her shamanism, but I dearly wish she'd seek out more training and give the character - and the reader - more solid ground to work from.
My other complaints vary. There were some editing errors that pulled me from the story. If entries are going to be date/time stamped, please make sure those dates and times are correct. Typos and made-up words also had me re-reading a passage or two before I got the proper gist. I hate that. Finally (and partially my fault for staying away from the series so long), Murphy didn't recap previous events enough. A strange thing to note, since my problem usually skews in the opposite direction, but I found I needed a bit more to go on when past events were mentioned. The result was a a plot less cohesive than I'd prefer.
But I've realised something about this series: I read it for the characters. Sure, shamanism as Murphy describes it is intriguing. Trickster gods and death deities are fascinating. But Joanne and her motley crew are much more entertaining than any of the incorporated legends. Joanne is a likable (sometimes dippy) smartass. She does what she can to fulfill her supernatural obligations. Sure, she whines a bit, but any normal person who enjoys being alive would. She takes her moment to panic and then comes back twice as determined to kick butt. Just as enjoyable are her circle of friends, especially Gary and Morrison. Some find Gary's inclusion a little odd - we don't often see humans in their 70s taking part in UF action - but he adds a much-needed stability to Joanne's life. His belief in Joanne has bolstered her over the past year and provided great comedic moments (and tear-filled ones). It's so rare that a UF lead willingly fosters attachments. I love that our heroine realises she wouldn't be half as powerful without her friends.
Another thing I appreciate: Joanne's love-life is complicated, but her problems are understandable. Murphy hasn't created a heroine whom all the boys lust after, nor is she bed-hopping in an attempt to stay detached. She's in a predicament, and she's making the best of it. That said, I hope she and her main interest manage to resolve the situation - the tension is killing me!
Whilst I wouldn't Peer Pressure Wench this series round the threads, I can't deny that I'm completely sucked in. On to Demon Hunts and whatever new mischief lies ahead!
It's been quite some time since I've visited Joanne Walker's world. Walking Dead did much to remind me what I love about the series - and what annoys me about it.
Murphy's concept is great. The combination of Native American and Celtic folklore is a plus for this series, as it creates a wide landscape for the characters to explore. It also allows for an interconnectedness between varying mythologies; in Joanne's Seattle, most world-concepts exist side by side. I enjoy stories in which different belief systems are given weight. However, I fear Murphy will keep pulling on the same few pieces of lore. With so much to draw from, it would be a shame not to explore different legends and how they relate.
In addition, I wish she'd present a more concrete view of the Powers That Be and magic in general, but I suppose our lack of understanding fittingly echoes Joanne's. Although Murphy has gotten better at describing Jo's magic, the character is still fumbling through. I'm glad she's finally embraced her shamanism, but I dearly wish she'd seek out more training and give the character - and the reader - more solid ground to work from.
My other complaints vary. There were some editing errors that pulled me from the story. If entries are going to be date/time stamped, please make sure those dates and times are correct. Typos and made-up words also had me re-reading a passage or two before I got the proper gist. I hate that. Finally (and partially my fault for staying away from the series so long), Murphy didn't recap previous events enough. A strange thing to note, since my problem usually skews in the opposite direction, but I found I needed a bit more to go on when past events were mentioned. The result was a a plot less cohesive than I'd prefer.
But I've realised something about this series: I read it for the characters. Sure, shamanism as Murphy describes it is intriguing. Trickster gods and death deities are fascinating. But Joanne and her motley crew are much more entertaining than any of the incorporated legends. Joanne is a likable (sometimes dippy) smartass. She does what she can to fulfill her supernatural obligations. Sure, she whines a bit, but any normal person who enjoys being alive would. She takes her moment to panic and then comes back twice as determined to kick butt. Just as enjoyable are her circle of friends, especially Gary and Morrison. Some find Gary's inclusion a little odd - we don't often see humans in their 70s taking part in UF action - but he adds a much-needed stability to Joanne's life. His belief in Joanne has bolstered her over the past year and provided great comedic moments (and tear-filled ones). It's so rare that a UF lead willingly fosters attachments. I love that our heroine realises she wouldn't be half as powerful without her friends.
Another thing I appreciate: Joanne's love-life is complicated, but her problems are understandable. Murphy hasn't created a heroine whom all the boys lust after, nor is she bed-hopping in an attempt to stay detached. She's in a predicament, and she's making the best of it. That said, I hope she and her main interest manage to resolve the situation - the tension is killing me!
Whilst I wouldn't Peer Pressure Wench this series round the threads, I can't deny that I'm completely sucked in. On to Demon Hunts and whatever new mischief lies ahead!
June 17, 2018
Another action-packed read from CE Murphy...thanks xx
August 21, 2009
Yet another series I CANNOT get enough of. "Walking Dead" is C.E. Murphy's latest in her 'Walker Paper' series about Joanne Walker, shamaness/auto mechanic/cop. Now if that combination doesn't make you want to read this series, I don't know what would!
It's been a chaotic year for Joanne. Her otherworld mentor, Coyote, died in the last book. But as in real life, major events presage major life changes and Joanne has finally (well, mostly) come to terms with all the weirdness that goes with being who she is. She's even spending time learning and practicing. And that's a good thing when her Halloween party is crashed by a few ghosts looking for a body. Then she and her police partner are called to investigate a robbery/murder at the local museum. You would assume the murder part would be the worst...but that would only be true if the robbery didn't involve a relic called Matholwch's Cauldron. So now Joanne has to figure out how to find and destroy a relic while dealing with: the two love interests in her life, an insurance adjustor who's being nosy about Petite, zombies in graveyards, the Wild Hunt, and a teenager who's had a sure vision of Joanne's death! What's a shamaness to do?
I enjoy this series so much. Joanne is NOT your typical heroine. She's almost six feet tall, more into muscle cars than muscle men, and is often resentful of what her birthright has given her. I guess that makes her the 'reluctant heroine' instead of the 'reluctant hero'. Yet her complaints fall just short of 'whine' territory and the combination of mystery, action, and magic is perfectly suited to my tastes.
On a more serious note, this series has much less typical 'romance' and I would rate it PG which means I don't have any problems letting my sons read it...and they love it too! Another keeper for my bulging shelves and another long wait for the next chapter in Joanne's life.
It's been a chaotic year for Joanne. Her otherworld mentor, Coyote, died in the last book. But as in real life, major events presage major life changes and Joanne has finally (well, mostly) come to terms with all the weirdness that goes with being who she is. She's even spending time learning and practicing. And that's a good thing when her Halloween party is crashed by a few ghosts looking for a body. Then she and her police partner are called to investigate a robbery/murder at the local museum. You would assume the murder part would be the worst...but that would only be true if the robbery didn't involve a relic called Matholwch's Cauldron. So now Joanne has to figure out how to find and destroy a relic while dealing with: the two love interests in her life, an insurance adjustor who's being nosy about Petite, zombies in graveyards, the Wild Hunt, and a teenager who's had a sure vision of Joanne's death! What's a shamaness to do?
I enjoy this series so much. Joanne is NOT your typical heroine. She's almost six feet tall, more into muscle cars than muscle men, and is often resentful of what her birthright has given her. I guess that makes her the 'reluctant heroine' instead of the 'reluctant hero'. Yet her complaints fall just short of 'whine' territory and the combination of mystery, action, and magic is perfectly suited to my tastes.
On a more serious note, this series has much less typical 'romance' and I would rate it PG which means I don't have any problems letting my sons read it...and they love it too! Another keeper for my bulging shelves and another long wait for the next chapter in Joanne's life.
December 22, 2011
I really like this series. The first book sounded interesting and it was. The second book was a waste, but I still was holding on. The third book Hooked me completely. This book was even better, except this story line that kept coming up about banshee's. It came up in the other books but it was a major key story line in this book as the next and I was left saying WTH! BIG FLAW!
There is a short story called Banshee Cries in an anthology called Winter Moon. This short story seems to have had a large impact on Jo and would be a nice growth and character development for her, since it's MENTIONED a great deal, and is part of a hidden mystery of possible future events. This is the ONLY thing I disliked in this installment. The fact that I had no clue what was going on cause I MISSED this short story and by book 4 I have to do some investigating to find out what's going on. I blame the publisher more then the author for this mistake.
I thoroughly enjoyed Walking Dead in spite of my WTH moments and grabbed the 5th book before I even finished this one.
There is a short story called Banshee Cries in an anthology called Winter Moon. This short story seems to have had a large impact on Jo and would be a nice growth and character development for her, since it's MENTIONED a great deal, and is part of a hidden mystery of possible future events. This is the ONLY thing I disliked in this installment. The fact that I had no clue what was going on cause I MISSED this short story and by book 4 I have to do some investigating to find out what's going on. I blame the publisher more then the author for this mistake.
I thoroughly enjoyed Walking Dead in spite of my WTH moments and grabbed the 5th book before I even finished this one.
August 2, 2014
I have so many problems with this series, I'm in the middle of this book and I'm giving up on it. First, the series reads like a third draft (which also needs revision and a final draft as well). I'm flipping through pages going "wtf is going on?".
Another problem is that the male interests (Thor and Morrison) are just uninteresting. They really don't have their own personalities (maybe because Jo doesn't care enough to find out more about either of them).
I get that Jo loves cars... but really? is that all there is about her worth mentioning other than her being pregnant?
I think the idea behind the series was good, there just isn't enough story line and character personality to really pull in the reader. Ilona Andrews would do a much better job.
Another problem is that the male interests (Thor and Morrison) are just uninteresting. They really don't have their own personalities (maybe because Jo doesn't care enough to find out more about either of them).
I get that Jo loves cars... but really? is that all there is about her worth mentioning other than her being pregnant?
I think the idea behind the series was good, there just isn't enough story line and character personality to really pull in the reader. Ilona Andrews would do a much better job.
March 22, 2019
😡 "Ready to be infuriated" BR with Sparky & Waifu Twilight Buns over at Maraya's Cave Of Freaking Wonders 😡
When did this show become fucking amazing?!?!
Seriously this was pretty up there into amazing territory. A completely 360° from the previous three books. There was some TSTLing going on but still pretty great work. I am pleasantly impressed for once!
Now to commence with the laying out of ones' fav characters - that is not the main character, i.e. Joanne - with heart emojis:
♥♥♥♥ Cernunnos ♥♥♥♥
♥♥♥♥ Gary ♥♥♥♥
♥♥♥♥ Morrison ♥♥♥♥
& last but not least,
♥♥ Suzanne ♥♥
“It’s ‘double, double toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble,’” I mumbled.
@7%
When did this show become fucking amazing?!?!
Seriously this was pretty up there into amazing territory. A completely 360° from the previous three books. There was some TSTLing going on but still pretty great work. I am pleasantly impressed for once!
Now to commence with the laying out of ones' fav characters - that is not the main character, i.e. Joanne - with heart emojis:
♥♥♥♥ Cernunnos ♥♥♥♥
♥♥♥♥ Gary ♥♥♥♥
♥♥♥♥ Morrison ♥♥♥♥
& last but not least,
♥♥ Suzanne ♥♥
It was good there were some constants in the universe. Time flowed in one direction, light traveled at 9.46 trillion kilometers per year, and Captain Michael Morrison was always irritated with me. I sighed.
@82%
December 14, 2019
I really like this series in a large part due to the heroine Joanne. The best thing about her is that she doesn't see herself as a hero. Just a normal person who is blundering her way through being a shaman after it was thrust on her. I love how when she learns something she is excited to share it with others only to find out they already know. Her always wanting a supernatural handbook to catch up cracks me up!!
This was a great book for her as she has accepted and embraced being a shaman. During the course of the book while hunting the big bad she is faced with other alternate realities based on what she could have decided. This scene in the book was fascinating to me. She saw herself and how things would have been with each changing decision. In the end though I think she came to the right train of thought that while some of those would have been good, she is right where she wants and needs to be with her life.
The opening Halloween party scenes were great, you could just see Joanne there being all uncomfortable, then not really caring. Her family by choice steps in and comes to the rescue in the end.
This was a great book for her as she has accepted and embraced being a shaman. During the course of the book while hunting the big bad she is faced with other alternate realities based on what she could have decided. This scene in the book was fascinating to me. She saw herself and how things would have been with each changing decision. In the end though I think she came to the right train of thought that while some of those would have been good, she is right where she wants and needs to be with her life.
The opening Halloween party scenes were great, you could just see Joanne there being all uncomfortable, then not really caring. Her family by choice steps in and comes to the rescue in the end.
October 24, 2009
The fourth in the Walker Papers series.
I really enjoyed the return of Joanne Walker and ensemble cast, one of my favourite things about this series is her cast of friends, they're all vital parts to each story for me.
This book also sees the return of Cernunnos and the Wild Hunt in all their finery..so a double bonus for me!
It's nice to see Joanne's character develop, she's really beginning to hone her shaman skills and has stopped trying to fight/deny her heritage which really pleased me. It's also nice to see her really embrace her friends and welcome their skills, and to see her also develop regular fighting skills as well as her spiritual ones.
I loved the opening to this book, set at Halloween the description of the party was vibrant and the chaos that ensues when ancient evils are let loose was fast paced and engaging.
Morrison and Thor both really shine through in this instalment and for all his faults, I can't help but root for Morrison to win Joanne's heart!
Plenty of magic, murder, mystery and mayhem abound in this book and leave me eagerly awaiting the next instalment..especially the romantic in me that's dying to know if Morrison will prevail!
I really enjoyed the return of Joanne Walker and ensemble cast, one of my favourite things about this series is her cast of friends, they're all vital parts to each story for me.
This book also sees the return of Cernunnos and the Wild Hunt in all their finery..so a double bonus for me!
It's nice to see Joanne's character develop, she's really beginning to hone her shaman skills and has stopped trying to fight/deny her heritage which really pleased me. It's also nice to see her really embrace her friends and welcome their skills, and to see her also develop regular fighting skills as well as her spiritual ones.
I loved the opening to this book, set at Halloween the description of the party was vibrant and the chaos that ensues when ancient evils are let loose was fast paced and engaging.
Morrison and Thor both really shine through in this instalment and for all his faults, I can't help but root for Morrison to win Joanne's heart!
Plenty of magic, murder, mystery and mayhem abound in this book and leave me eagerly awaiting the next instalment..especially the romantic in me that's dying to know if Morrison will prevail!
December 18, 2012
Meh. Better than the others I guess but still hasn't achieved all of its glorious potential...The main character is evolving but still makes so damn many mistakes. At least she agrees with me that she's not a bright girl!
Anyway I liked this one better probably just because the lord master of the Wild Hunt graced us with his presence...He also kicked Jo's jaw as an hello but hey that's what one gets when one smiles when confronted with the Master Of the WILD HUNT! I mean, really? The guy is a GOD. Raw power. Wild. Immortal. And she just smiles! One either gets into a fighting stance or hides behind something sturdy...ONE DOES NOT SMILE! Specially when he tried to kill you, what, three or four times already! I'm really surprised she survived this long...honestly. It's like defying the rules of nature...in this case I guess those don't apply but like...rules of good writing? I don't know.
In any case, it means something is wrong when a reader actually wants to kill a main character right?
Anyway I liked this one better probably just because the lord master of the Wild Hunt graced us with his presence...He also kicked Jo's jaw as an hello but hey that's what one gets when one smiles when confronted with the Master Of the WILD HUNT! I mean, really? The guy is a GOD. Raw power. Wild. Immortal. And she just smiles! One either gets into a fighting stance or hides behind something sturdy...ONE DOES NOT SMILE! Specially when he tried to kill you, what, three or four times already! I'm really surprised she survived this long...honestly. It's like defying the rules of nature...in this case I guess those don't apply but like...rules of good writing? I don't know.
In any case, it means something is wrong when a reader actually wants to kill a main character right?
May 8, 2010
It's been a while since I read this series and this latest installment was cute. I mean the voice (internal dialog) is funny and the concept of Joanne using her own visualizations to own and use her power is great. She is funny but almost too funny. Almost too light. I don't know how else to explain the feeling that maybe its time to bring this baby home. Maybe the author moved on from this world. I dont know. I still liked it. Maybe I should erase this. Naw.
Now , I lilked the story , I liked everyithg. I probobly will read the next installment, just cuz I wanna know what happens to Joanne and her cast of charicters.
Now , I lilked the story , I liked everyithg. I probobly will read the next installment, just cuz I wanna know what happens to Joanne and her cast of charicters.
January 31, 2016
I enjoyed this installment. It was nice that JoAnn is finally learning. There are some good interactions with past players and I really liked a scene where JoAnn gets to 'see' her lives for all the paths not taken. There's minimal Gary in this, but fortunately he's not the only bright spot in these stories anymore. Did this in audio and fortunately I still have at least one more on the tbr pile.
August 30, 2016
This installment kind of lost its momentum for the series, but I still enjoyed it overall. I find Jo an intriguing character, but she is starting to seem ambiguous. I really adore the character Gary; he's entertaining.
August 31, 2017
Excellent series. Totally loved it!!!
September 20, 2010
After crazy things erupted at her Halloween party, Joanne is yet again thrown into the middle of a crazy mystical scheme. Extremely old ghosts are surfacing with a vengeance and a cauldron that can make an undead army is stolen. Without her spirit guide Coyote she is forced to try and figure out how to stop whoever is trying to use the cauldron. Meanwhile she's trying to juggle her relationship with Thor, her feelings for Morrison and an extremely nosy insurance adjuster that just won't stop harassing her. To top it all off a teenager is having premonitions of Joanne's death, and she's never been wrong in the past
Ugh, so the saying "one step forward, two steps back" definitely applies to this book. In the last book Joanne finally confessed to Morrison about her feelings towards him. He gave her a choice in the end whether to accept a position as a detective or decline it an possibly pursue those feelings. I was a little surprised when she did do the responsible thing and chose the detective position over him. It would seem she is finally going to step up and take responsibility for her powers and learn to use them to do a lot of good for people. Its just a shame that this came at the cost of losing any chance at being with Morrison. There was a tension between the two of them that wasn't there before and I find myself missing their antagonistic banter. They both seem to be painfully aware of the other, and that just taints everything, including her relationship with Thor. I did feel sorry for him, but he really isn't what she wants. I still am holding out hope for Joanne and Morrison. because I cannot imagine the author being so cruel as to having all this develop between them for so many books but then never letting them have each other. Well, I truly hope that isn't the case.
The action was definitely stepped up a major notch in this book. Joanne of course is still mostly flying by the seat of her pants whenever danger arises. However, she did show more maturity and is well on her journey towards acceptance and building her powers. I hope now that shes chosen her path she will find some assistance or training from, well anyone. The poor girl needs some help figuring out how to really use her powers so she doesn't keep messing things up.
I really enjoyed this book, and the series just seems to keep getting better. I look forward to reading more about Joanne's journey, and continue to hope for Morrison and her to get a chance together. I guess only time will tell.
Ugh, so the saying "one step forward, two steps back" definitely applies to this book. In the last book Joanne finally confessed to Morrison about her feelings towards him. He gave her a choice in the end whether to accept a position as a detective or decline it an possibly pursue those feelings. I was a little surprised when she did do the responsible thing and chose the detective position over him. It would seem she is finally going to step up and take responsibility for her powers and learn to use them to do a lot of good for people. Its just a shame that this came at the cost of losing any chance at being with Morrison. There was a tension between the two of them that wasn't there before and I find myself missing their antagonistic banter. They both seem to be painfully aware of the other, and that just taints everything, including her relationship with Thor. I did feel sorry for him, but he really isn't what she wants. I still am holding out hope for Joanne and Morrison. because I cannot imagine the author being so cruel as to having all this develop between them for so many books but then never letting them have each other. Well, I truly hope that isn't the case.
The action was definitely stepped up a major notch in this book. Joanne of course is still mostly flying by the seat of her pants whenever danger arises. However, she did show more maturity and is well on her journey towards acceptance and building her powers. I hope now that shes chosen her path she will find some assistance or training from, well anyone. The poor girl needs some help figuring out how to really use her powers so she doesn't keep messing things up.
I really enjoyed this book, and the series just seems to keep getting better. I look forward to reading more about Joanne's journey, and continue to hope for Morrison and her to get a chance together. I guess only time will tell.
January 31, 2015
Joanne Walker has settled in as a detective partnering with her friend, Billy. She finally has a romantic life and is dating "Thor" aka Edward from the motor pool. She is even coming to terms with her shamanic power and what it means for her long-term. Everything seems to be going well. So, of course, it all goes to hell during a Halloween party.
These books are still kind of all over the place. There is too much going on with Shamans, Ghosts, Zombies, the Wild Hunt, etc. But, because Joanne is such a relatable character, you still want to follow her on this journey. She makes bad decisions but has the best of intentions. It's hard not to pull for her.
What I love most is Joanne's relationships. Gary was out of the picture for part of this installment but when he came on the scene, he showed why he is one of the first people she calls when it's about to go down. He may be older but I'd pick him for my dodgeball team anytime. Billy is a loyal work partner and continues to be one of the most supportive people in her life. (I also love the fact that the author didn't allow Mel, Billy's wife, to hate Joanne. She supports Joanne and is a strong female influence in her life. Too often in urban fantasy we are given these great female main characters who are hated by all the women around them. It's a sad statement and, thank goodness, CE Murphy didn't go down that path.)
I'm not going to talk about Thor. You'll have to read Walking Dead to determine your own feelings about him. But, Morrison...I know Joanne made the decision to take the detective's position and he is her boss. Still there is so much brewing on the pages between them. And she deserves to be with someone who will be her partner in life, ride with the Wild Hunt when he needs to get to her and blow away zombies without flinching. It would be nice to see further movement in their relationship. We'll see. (Now, I admit that I am pro-Morrison and Joanne. But, my goodness, when Cernunnos comes on the scene a small part of me really wants her to explore that possibility. There, I said it.)
4/5 stars.
These books are still kind of all over the place. There is too much going on with Shamans, Ghosts, Zombies, the Wild Hunt, etc. But, because Joanne is such a relatable character, you still want to follow her on this journey. She makes bad decisions but has the best of intentions. It's hard not to pull for her.
What I love most is Joanne's relationships. Gary was out of the picture for part of this installment but when he came on the scene, he showed why he is one of the first people she calls when it's about to go down. He may be older but I'd pick him for my dodgeball team anytime. Billy is a loyal work partner and continues to be one of the most supportive people in her life. (I also love the fact that the author didn't allow Mel, Billy's wife, to hate Joanne. She supports Joanne and is a strong female influence in her life. Too often in urban fantasy we are given these great female main characters who are hated by all the women around them. It's a sad statement and, thank goodness, CE Murphy didn't go down that path.)
I'm not going to talk about Thor. You'll have to read Walking Dead to determine your own feelings about him. But, Morrison...I know Joanne made the decision to take the detective's position and he is her boss. Still there is so much brewing on the pages between them. And she deserves to be with someone who will be her partner in life, ride with the Wild Hunt when he needs to get to her and blow away zombies without flinching. It would be nice to see further movement in their relationship. We'll see. (Now, I admit that I am pro-Morrison and Joanne. But, my goodness, when Cernunnos comes on the scene a small part of me really wants her to explore that possibility. There, I said it.)
4/5 stars.
March 7, 2010
I've enjoyed the other Walker Papers novels, but Walking Dead definitely showed more depth and maturity than the earlier volumes. Both the author and her lead character have grown very nicely. It's refreshing to read a series that does not fall into the all-too-familiar paranormal romance formula!
Another thing I enjoy about this series is that heroine Joanne has a supporting ensemble of friends and coworkers who have their own talents and foibles, including a delightful married couple, a sexy father figure (who isn't related to anyone we've met so far), and an even sexier boss. This time around we were treated to the return of a character Joanne rescued in an earlier volume who has grown into some of her own ass-kicking abilities.
Joanne is far from perfect, but she doesn't make the same mistakes over and over again, which is a pet peeve of mine and occurs all too often in some other authors works. (There's consistency, and then there's refusing to learn from mistakes to the extent that I have to believe that a character is too stupid to live.)
There is a thread that ties all of the Walker Papers together, but C.E. Murphy is keeping things fresh enough that I, at least, am not getting bored. I would, however, caution that this is a series that is best read completely and in order. I began reading one of the novels without realizing that there had been a novella published between it and the previous one, and found myself well and truly confused. Walking Dead definitely is not a good starting point for the series! While a new reader wouldn't necessarily be completely lost, she would miss far too much of the magic.
Another thing I enjoy about this series is that heroine Joanne has a supporting ensemble of friends and coworkers who have their own talents and foibles, including a delightful married couple, a sexy father figure (who isn't related to anyone we've met so far), and an even sexier boss. This time around we were treated to the return of a character Joanne rescued in an earlier volume who has grown into some of her own ass-kicking abilities.
Joanne is far from perfect, but she doesn't make the same mistakes over and over again, which is a pet peeve of mine and occurs all too often in some other authors works. (There's consistency, and then there's refusing to learn from mistakes to the extent that I have to believe that a character is too stupid to live.)
There is a thread that ties all of the Walker Papers together, but C.E. Murphy is keeping things fresh enough that I, at least, am not getting bored. I would, however, caution that this is a series that is best read completely and in order. I began reading one of the novels without realizing that there had been a novella published between it and the previous one, and found myself well and truly confused. Walking Dead definitely is not a good starting point for the series! While a new reader wouldn't necessarily be completely lost, she would miss far too much of the magic.
March 1, 2014
This is the 4th book in an urban fantasy series about a reluctant shaman. She's half Native American, a mechanic by vocation, and recently promoted to a police detective to handle the woo-woo cases. This book starts with her throwing her first party ever, but it gets crashed by ghosts. Then she and her partner get called into a murder case involving the theft of an ancient death cauldron. As usual, there is magic and travel to other planes of mystical existence. Eventually, there are zombies.
The tone of this series is inviting and interesting, but after four books, I still don't love the characters enough to worry about them, so I like it, but not love it.
The tone of this series is inviting and interesting, but after four books, I still don't love the characters enough to worry about them, so I like it, but not love it.
September 13, 2009
You would think a Halloween party would be a relatively safe event but not when Joanne Walker is the host' the undead crash the party. If that isn't enough, she and her partner get called into a murder that involves someone having stolen a magic cauldron that is purported to have the ability to bring the dead back to life.
If you haven't read any of Murphy's urban shaman series, you are in for a treat but watch out as they are addicting.
If you haven't read any of Murphy's urban shaman series, you are in for a treat but watch out as they are addicting.
July 22, 2016
Fourth in the Walker Papers urban fantasy series revolving around Joanne Walker. She’s been a detective with the Seattle Police Department for four months now. And barely longer as a shaman.
My Take
Crack me up…Joanne’s plan to not be recognized by wearing a mask is thwarted with that wolf whistle, lol. After events in Coyote Dreams , 3, Joanne has gotten more introspective about her perspective in childhood. I do like that she’s finally starting to accept that she has gifts.
I do enjoy Joanne’s engine metaphors; it’s amazing how many can be interpreted, ahem, sexually, lol. No, that’s not why I’m laughing though. It’s that Jo is amazingly shy about such things and is so used to being one of the guys, that I can’t help but laugh when she catches herself, accidentally revving someone’s engine.
Ooh, Seattle history lesson…hey, I like history!
Bloody insurance companies…oh, well, at least they’re consistent, even in books. Keeps that level of realism up, lol. And let Jo’s experience be a lesson to you. Do NOT try to save your insurance company money. They’ll just think you’re scamming them. Jerks. I did enjoy Billy’s comment when he realized what the brouhaha was about. Yep, he knows Joanie all right.
I like the idea that turning one’s back on evil can take away some of its power. Now if only that would work on…say…insurance companies or the government or…*eyebrow waggle, grin*
Okay, there are a couple of those tropes that piss me off. Y’all know these two. One is the “don’t tell anyone what you’ve learned lest they be able to help” trope. When you consider how much time could have been saved if she’d said something at the time…makes ya wanna weep. Although, it was a clever idea. The other is the “I can do it all myself” trope. *eye roll*
Whoa…it would be fascinating to see all possible futures. I know I’d like some warning. As for Joanne’s past and future…oh, it was so sad the possibilities. Then again, I had to laugh at Joanne’s acknowledgement of Suzanne’s practicality.
Poor Thor. He really likes Jo and wants to be supportive, only Jo’s feelings are focused elsewhere.
Bargains?! Oh, no. Cernunno and his bargains…it’s a tough one, and leaves yet another lesson in having compassion. So, I’m guessing Cernunno isn’t fae and is simply a god. Hmmm, simply…*scratches my head*. There’s a scene in which Joanne thanks Cernunno, and everything I’ve ever read says you don’t thank the fae, and yet the Wild Hunt has always been associated with the fae…*still scratching…*.
Eeewww…zombie squirrels chewing on your foot??! I guess that could explain Joanne’s sudden collapse…but I ain’t buyin’ it. It was stupid. I could see her freaking out, but not to this extent.
I knew it! Joanne’s screwed up again. Is this going to be a trend throughout the series? Joanne making mistakes because she can’t be bothered to learn?
I like Joanie’s explanation of reality. It’s simplistic, but---no pun intended, really---realistic. We each do carry our own reality around with us, and it does relate to our past experiences, our height, weight, looks, and more. None of which makes your reality or mine any less real or true.
The Story
Omigod! Joanne is giving a party. A Halloween party with dancing, costumes---skimpy costumes---and party activities. Who knew bobbing for apples could be so incredibly dangerous?
It’s the threat of ghost riders, old murder victims, who demand revenge that has Billy following Jo into her metaphysical garden to be sure there’s nothing waiting to pounce and use Jo as a carrier, but it’s a metaphysical nightmare that escalates when they learn that the Cauldron of Matholwch has disappeared in spite of some very strong protections and with some very disturbing coincidences.
It’s a race against time, and Joanne must prevent the ghosts from getting a toehold in our world.
The Characters
Officer Joanne Walker, a.k.a., Siobháan Grainne MacNamarra Walkingstick, half Cherokee and all shaman, works as a police officer in Seattle. She’s also learnt to bend light and disappear. Petite is her vintage ‘69 Mustang. She still has her shields: Gary’s Purple Heart, the Nuada-made rapier from https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2..., 1, her mother’s Celtic cross pendant, and her copper bracelet. Gary Muldoon is a taxi driver who has become Joanne’s mentor and friend. Coyote, her not-quite-a spirit guide, had convinced a younger Joanne that change is an essential for a shaman. He’s still missing and the figures on Joanne’s drum are smearing.
The Seattle PD’s North Precinct
Captain James Michael Morrison is the boss she, sort of, turned down in Coyote Dreams , 3. Detective Billy Holliday is her partner and cross-dressing friend---he and his very-pregnant wife, Melinda, had great costumes. Melinda is his witchy wife; Caroline is Billy’s older sister; and, Brad is Billy’s brother. Jen Gonzales is in charge of Missing Persons.
The Seattle PD garage
Thor the Thunder God, a.k.a., Edward Johnson, is Joanne’s hunky boyfriend, and the guy who replaced her at the garage. He’s willing to do whatever it takes. Nick is her former boss.
Ayita was born second; Aidan was born first. Sheila Anne MacNamarra was her Irish mother; Joseph Leroy Walkingstick was her Cherokee father.
Sonata Smith is the medium and Patrick, a theologian, is Sonny’s partner. The ghostriders who have attached to Billy include a very determined Matilda Whitehead, Anne-Marie, Ricky Peterson, and the twins. Edith Whitehead was Matilda’s “deranged” mother.
After events in https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2..., Joanne has taken up fencing with Phoebe Kostelis who has also become a friend. Suzanne Quinley, a little girl who can see into the future and wield the wild magic, is the only survivor of her earthbound family although her grandfather, Cernunno, is still alive after events in Urban Shaman . Cernunno, a.ka., Herne, a.k.a., the Horned God of the Hunt, is part of the Wild Hunt. The leader is his immortal son, the Young Rider.
Daniel Doherty is with First Ally Home-state Insurance.
Museum of Cultural Arts
Saul Sandburg is the museum director. Jason Chan and Archie Redding are the security guards. Ida is Redding’s wife, and they have two little girls. Meghan is one of the staffers. The Cauldron of Matholwch, a.k.a., the Black Cauldron, can bring back the dead per a legend regarding King Bran and his sister, Branwyn, who married King Matholwch. It comes with its own built-in protections.
The Dead Zone is another plane of existence.
The Cover
The cover is a nice pair of complements: oranges and blue. It's Joanne with her back to us, wearing jeans and a yellow tank top---the beaded Indian belt and bracelet ensures we know of her heritage. The blue of the spirited horse from the Wild Hunt who is headed for Jo is starkly outlined by the fiery orange sky over the Seattle skyline.
The title is the focus, the Walking Dead are particularly active when the divide between our world and theirs is thin.
My Take
Crack me up…Joanne’s plan to not be recognized by wearing a mask is thwarted with that wolf whistle, lol. After events in Coyote Dreams , 3, Joanne has gotten more introspective about her perspective in childhood. I do like that she’s finally starting to accept that she has gifts.
I do enjoy Joanne’s engine metaphors; it’s amazing how many can be interpreted, ahem, sexually, lol. No, that’s not why I’m laughing though. It’s that Jo is amazingly shy about such things and is so used to being one of the guys, that I can’t help but laugh when she catches herself, accidentally revving someone’s engine.
Ooh, Seattle history lesson…hey, I like history!
Bloody insurance companies…oh, well, at least they’re consistent, even in books. Keeps that level of realism up, lol. And let Jo’s experience be a lesson to you. Do NOT try to save your insurance company money. They’ll just think you’re scamming them. Jerks. I did enjoy Billy’s comment when he realized what the brouhaha was about. Yep, he knows Joanie all right.
I like the idea that turning one’s back on evil can take away some of its power. Now if only that would work on…say…insurance companies or the government or…*eyebrow waggle, grin*
Okay, there are a couple of those tropes that piss me off. Y’all know these two. One is the “don’t tell anyone what you’ve learned lest they be able to help” trope. When you consider how much time could have been saved if she’d said something at the time…makes ya wanna weep. Although, it was a clever idea. The other is the “I can do it all myself” trope. *eye roll*
Whoa…it would be fascinating to see all possible futures. I know I’d like some warning. As for Joanne’s past and future…oh, it was so sad the possibilities. Then again, I had to laugh at Joanne’s acknowledgement of Suzanne’s practicality.
Poor Thor. He really likes Jo and wants to be supportive, only Jo’s feelings are focused elsewhere.
Bargains?! Oh, no. Cernunno and his bargains…it’s a tough one, and leaves yet another lesson in having compassion. So, I’m guessing Cernunno isn’t fae and is simply a god. Hmmm, simply…*scratches my head*. There’s a scene in which Joanne thanks Cernunno, and everything I’ve ever read says you don’t thank the fae, and yet the Wild Hunt has always been associated with the fae…*still scratching…*.
Eeewww…zombie squirrels chewing on your foot??! I guess that could explain Joanne’s sudden collapse…but I ain’t buyin’ it. It was stupid. I could see her freaking out, but not to this extent.
I knew it! Joanne’s screwed up again. Is this going to be a trend throughout the series? Joanne making mistakes because she can’t be bothered to learn?
I like Joanie’s explanation of reality. It’s simplistic, but---no pun intended, really---realistic. We each do carry our own reality around with us, and it does relate to our past experiences, our height, weight, looks, and more. None of which makes your reality or mine any less real or true.
The Story
Omigod! Joanne is giving a party. A Halloween party with dancing, costumes---skimpy costumes---and party activities. Who knew bobbing for apples could be so incredibly dangerous?
It’s the threat of ghost riders, old murder victims, who demand revenge that has Billy following Jo into her metaphysical garden to be sure there’s nothing waiting to pounce and use Jo as a carrier, but it’s a metaphysical nightmare that escalates when they learn that the Cauldron of Matholwch has disappeared in spite of some very strong protections and with some very disturbing coincidences.
It’s a race against time, and Joanne must prevent the ghosts from getting a toehold in our world.
The Characters
Officer Joanne Walker, a.k.a., Siobháan Grainne MacNamarra Walkingstick, half Cherokee and all shaman, works as a police officer in Seattle. She’s also learnt to bend light and disappear. Petite is her vintage ‘69 Mustang. She still has her shields: Gary’s Purple Heart, the Nuada-made rapier from https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2..., 1, her mother’s Celtic cross pendant, and her copper bracelet. Gary Muldoon is a taxi driver who has become Joanne’s mentor and friend. Coyote, her not-quite-a spirit guide, had convinced a younger Joanne that change is an essential for a shaman. He’s still missing and the figures on Joanne’s drum are smearing.
The Seattle PD’s North Precinct
Captain James Michael Morrison is the boss she, sort of, turned down in Coyote Dreams , 3. Detective Billy Holliday is her partner and cross-dressing friend---he and his very-pregnant wife, Melinda, had great costumes. Melinda is his witchy wife; Caroline is Billy’s older sister; and, Brad is Billy’s brother. Jen Gonzales is in charge of Missing Persons.
The Seattle PD garage
Thor the Thunder God, a.k.a., Edward Johnson, is Joanne’s hunky boyfriend, and the guy who replaced her at the garage. He’s willing to do whatever it takes. Nick is her former boss.
Ayita was born second; Aidan was born first. Sheila Anne MacNamarra was her Irish mother; Joseph Leroy Walkingstick was her Cherokee father.
Sonata Smith is the medium and Patrick, a theologian, is Sonny’s partner. The ghostriders who have attached to Billy include a very determined Matilda Whitehead, Anne-Marie, Ricky Peterson, and the twins. Edith Whitehead was Matilda’s “deranged” mother.
After events in https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2..., Joanne has taken up fencing with Phoebe Kostelis who has also become a friend. Suzanne Quinley, a little girl who can see into the future and wield the wild magic, is the only survivor of her earthbound family although her grandfather, Cernunno, is still alive after events in Urban Shaman . Cernunno, a.ka., Herne, a.k.a., the Horned God of the Hunt, is part of the Wild Hunt. The leader is his immortal son, the Young Rider.
Daniel Doherty is with First Ally Home-state Insurance.
Museum of Cultural Arts
Saul Sandburg is the museum director. Jason Chan and Archie Redding are the security guards. Ida is Redding’s wife, and they have two little girls. Meghan is one of the staffers. The Cauldron of Matholwch, a.k.a., the Black Cauldron, can bring back the dead per a legend regarding King Bran and his sister, Branwyn, who married King Matholwch. It comes with its own built-in protections.
The Dead Zone is another plane of existence.
The Cover
The cover is a nice pair of complements: oranges and blue. It's Joanne with her back to us, wearing jeans and a yellow tank top---the beaded Indian belt and bracelet ensures we know of her heritage. The blue of the spirited horse from the Wild Hunt who is headed for Jo is starkly outlined by the fiery orange sky over the Seattle skyline.
The title is the focus, the Walking Dead are particularly active when the divide between our world and theirs is thin.
September 20, 2018
Walking Dead is the fourth book in the Walker Papers series written by C.E. Murphy and centred on Joanne Walker (born Siobhán Walkingstick) is a half-Cherokee/half-Irish, is a Seattle Police Officer and mechanic who so happen to be a shaman.
Things are looking well for Joanne Walker. She comes to terms with her shamanic powers, her new career as a police detective has been rather quiet, and her love life with Edward Johnson, whom she nicknames Thor, the Thunder God is going rather well.
Things start going awry when Joanne Walker helps a friend throw a Halloween party when ghosts try to possess the entertainment. Fortunately, Billy Holliday, her partner and ghost whisperer, is on hand at the Halloween party when the ghosts burst out of a cauldron.
Meanwhile when a murder and a theft of an ancient Cauldron of Matholwch at a Seattle museum happen, a dark pall spreads over the city, and it is up to Joanne Walker and her partner Billy Holliday to solve the mystery and save the world, before the dead walk the Earth for good – literally.
It is the threat of ghost riders, old murder victims, who demand revenge that has Billy Holliday following Joanne Walker into her metaphysical garden to be sure there is nothing waiting to pounce and use her as a carrier. However, it becomes quite the nightmare when they learn that the Cauldron of Matholwch was no ordinary theft as it had some rather strong protections placed on it, because the use of it would have some dire metaphysical results. According to Welsh mythology, the Cauldron of Matholwch is a magical cauldron able to revive the dead – something that the ghost riders seem rather interested about obtaining.
Walking Dead is written somewhat well. Murphy has mixed the Indigenous and Irish beliefs rather well – an unusual combination, but it is rather interesting. It also features some witchcraft, stage magic, clairvoyance, and gods. It is a wild, fast-paced, and generally flowed rather quickly with many wacky twists and turns. However, I did find that there might be a tad too much mythology that the plot could handle, which seemed to lose the plot a tad.
All in all, Walking Dead is written rather well and a good continuation for the series, which I plan to read in the very near future.
Things are looking well for Joanne Walker. She comes to terms with her shamanic powers, her new career as a police detective has been rather quiet, and her love life with Edward Johnson, whom she nicknames Thor, the Thunder God is going rather well.
Things start going awry when Joanne Walker helps a friend throw a Halloween party when ghosts try to possess the entertainment. Fortunately, Billy Holliday, her partner and ghost whisperer, is on hand at the Halloween party when the ghosts burst out of a cauldron.
Meanwhile when a murder and a theft of an ancient Cauldron of Matholwch at a Seattle museum happen, a dark pall spreads over the city, and it is up to Joanne Walker and her partner Billy Holliday to solve the mystery and save the world, before the dead walk the Earth for good – literally.
It is the threat of ghost riders, old murder victims, who demand revenge that has Billy Holliday following Joanne Walker into her metaphysical garden to be sure there is nothing waiting to pounce and use her as a carrier. However, it becomes quite the nightmare when they learn that the Cauldron of Matholwch was no ordinary theft as it had some rather strong protections placed on it, because the use of it would have some dire metaphysical results. According to Welsh mythology, the Cauldron of Matholwch is a magical cauldron able to revive the dead – something that the ghost riders seem rather interested about obtaining.
Walking Dead is written somewhat well. Murphy has mixed the Indigenous and Irish beliefs rather well – an unusual combination, but it is rather interesting. It also features some witchcraft, stage magic, clairvoyance, and gods. It is a wild, fast-paced, and generally flowed rather quickly with many wacky twists and turns. However, I did find that there might be a tad too much mythology that the plot could handle, which seemed to lose the plot a tad.
All in all, Walking Dead is written rather well and a good continuation for the series, which I plan to read in the very near future.
July 22, 2019
By C.E. Murphy
Narrator Gabra Zackman
Joanne Walker is both boring and stupid. (Sorry for using the "S" word but it couldn't be helped because it's so true). This woman was brought back to life by a Native American spirit, claimed by an Nordic God, escorted through the realms of life and death, healed the sick, and her partners can talk to ghosts. Yet, in every book she has to be convinced that something utterly insignificant compared to those things are actually real. STUPID! Someone tells her of a magic cauldron and she say, "That cant be real. It's just a fairie tale." Really Joanne? All the things I previously mentioned have happened and you cant believe in magic spells.
Also, the way the spirit lands and The Hunt are portrayed just comes across as boring to me. The parts with details are tedious and when it doesnt give details it's hard to imagine.
This is it for me and this series. It's just not my cup of tea. I had multiple folks tell me it gets better, plus I really wanted to make it to the Jane Yellowrock collab story. Unfortunately, I just cant go any further. This last book I got as part of Amazon's Audiobook Escape promotion where you test out unlimited romance novels, so it seemed worth the risk. Even for free, I dont dont think I'll revisit this one unless I'm desperate.
This isn't a dig at the author herself. I'm sure she has some excellent stuff. For my taste in stories, this series just do it for me.
1 STAR - 🌟 Not Interesting or Bad story telling. Usually a book I had to force myself to finish
Narrator Gabra Zackman
Joanne Walker is both boring and stupid. (Sorry for using the "S" word but it couldn't be helped because it's so true). This woman was brought back to life by a Native American spirit, claimed by an Nordic God, escorted through the realms of life and death, healed the sick, and her partners can talk to ghosts. Yet, in every book she has to be convinced that something utterly insignificant compared to those things are actually real. STUPID! Someone tells her of a magic cauldron and she say, "That cant be real. It's just a fairie tale." Really Joanne? All the things I previously mentioned have happened and you cant believe in magic spells.
Also, the way the spirit lands and The Hunt are portrayed just comes across as boring to me. The parts with details are tedious and when it doesnt give details it's hard to imagine.
This is it for me and this series. It's just not my cup of tea. I had multiple folks tell me it gets better, plus I really wanted to make it to the Jane Yellowrock collab story. Unfortunately, I just cant go any further. This last book I got as part of Amazon's Audiobook Escape promotion where you test out unlimited romance novels, so it seemed worth the risk. Even for free, I dont dont think I'll revisit this one unless I'm desperate.
This isn't a dig at the author herself. I'm sure she has some excellent stuff. For my taste in stories, this series just do it for me.
1 STAR - 🌟 Not Interesting or Bad story telling. Usually a book I had to force myself to finish
October 23, 2020
This series is so good! It's interesting, different, the stories are packed with action, emotion, and the laugh out loud personality of Joanne Walker. She's dorky and goofy, and definitely not your smooth leading lady who stalks into a room in spike-heeled boots! No, Jo's the one in an engine oil stained t-shirt with big clunky shoes because she figures that at 5'11" with big feet, she may as well wear whatever she wants. It's not like anything will make her look shorter with smaller feet! Then of course is Jo's inability to say what she means at times, instead you just never know what's coming, and it's so much fun!
The rest of the characters are so well put together, I don't know about you but I've got to feel something for my book people, otherwise why bother reading about them? Anyway, I would love to know these characters. They're so different too, how often does the young female lead become best buds with a man in his 70's?
I guess what I'm saying is this series really has it all. The plots will keep you wondering and the characters will keep you coming back over and over again. I can't wait to see what happens next!
The rest of the characters are so well put together, I don't know about you but I've got to feel something for my book people, otherwise why bother reading about them? Anyway, I would love to know these characters. They're so different too, how often does the young female lead become best buds with a man in his 70's?
I guess what I'm saying is this series really has it all. The plots will keep you wondering and the characters will keep you coming back over and over again. I can't wait to see what happens next!
October 23, 2023
For once, Joanne Walker's not out to save the world. She's come to terms with the host of shamanic powers she's been given, her job as a police detective has been relatively calm, and she's got a love life for the first time in memory. Not bad for a woman who started out the year mostly dead.
But it's Halloween, and the undead have just crashed Joanne's party.
Now, with her mentor Coyote still missing, she has to figure out how to break the spell that has let the ghosts, zombies and even the Wild Hunt come back. Unfortunately, there's no shamanic handbook explaining how to deal with the walking dead. And if they have anything to say about it — which they do — no one's getting out of there alive.
Heather's Notes
This was a good story. I liked the way the author brought back some characters. I also liked the way the story went. I was sorry about Thor (or whatever his real name is), but it is obvious who the love interest is, so I am glad she didn't drag it out. I enjoyed the story and will keep on reading this series.
But it's Halloween, and the undead have just crashed Joanne's party.
Now, with her mentor Coyote still missing, she has to figure out how to break the spell that has let the ghosts, zombies and even the Wild Hunt come back. Unfortunately, there's no shamanic handbook explaining how to deal with the walking dead. And if they have anything to say about it — which they do — no one's getting out of there alive.
Heather's Notes
This was a good story. I liked the way the author brought back some characters. I also liked the way the story went. I was sorry about Thor (or whatever his real name is), but it is obvious who the love interest is, so I am glad she didn't drag it out. I enjoyed the story and will keep on reading this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2025
I have really been enjoying rereading this series as it has been republished.
A couple notes I had:
The MC being in a relationship with one person while also obviously and publicly being in love with someone else was suuuper cringey and made the beginning hard to read. As a primarily romance genre reader it's also painful how long it is taking for the central romantic situation to resolve.
That said, these books are quite funny and the main cast of characters are all wonderful. It's also enjoyable and emotional to watch the MC grow and come into her own throughout the series.
My only other gripe is that a lot of weird action type stuff happens with magic and inner worlds in these books and it's sometimes hard to follow or visualize exactly what is happening, especially because things sometimes happen so fast.
A couple notes I had:
The MC being in a relationship with one person while also obviously and publicly being in love with someone else was suuuper cringey and made the beginning hard to read. As a primarily romance genre reader it's also painful how long it is taking for the central romantic situation to resolve.
That said, these books are quite funny and the main cast of characters are all wonderful. It's also enjoyable and emotional to watch the MC grow and come into her own throughout the series.
My only other gripe is that a lot of weird action type stuff happens with magic and inner worlds in these books and it's sometimes hard to follow or visualize exactly what is happening, especially because things sometimes happen so fast.
March 4, 2020
I'm coming to like this series more; I think partly because I'm finally used the to style and character as opposed to big changes in the content. Not the most intriguing story, but I do like that she and Billy are working together now.
There was honestly quite a bit to be discouraged about; she's not treating Thor very well, she's really not very good at being a shaman, the writing is repetitive... if I have to hear about her shoe choice and whether she's that 1/2in taller than Morrison I might tear my hair out. Do people really think like that?
I wouldn't be interested enough on my own to keep reading, but it's decent enough that I will keep reading for book club.
There was honestly quite a bit to be discouraged about; she's not treating Thor very well, she's really not very good at being a shaman, the writing is repetitive... if I have to hear about her shoe choice and whether she's that 1/2in taller than Morrison I might tear my hair out. Do people really think like that?
I wouldn't be interested enough on my own to keep reading, but it's decent enough that I will keep reading for book club.
August 19, 2020
At a Halloween party put on by Joanne and Phoebe, a cauldron erupts with real spirits that don’t want to go back.
At first, the storyline is a little confusing and disconnected except for Joanne and Billy’s battles with various groups of spirits. Then the thing comes together when the whole group have to figure out how stop a zombie invasion on Halloween.
Joanne now has the two gratuitous potential boyfriend thing going on. The one she can have, but unsure of and the one she likes best but is ill-advised. But pressure helps her decide.
Fave scenes: Joanne’s burning door, the KITT car ghost cage, Joanne healing the garden and Joanne disappearing from the basement.
At first, the storyline is a little confusing and disconnected except for Joanne and Billy’s battles with various groups of spirits. Then the thing comes together when the whole group have to figure out how stop a zombie invasion on Halloween.
Joanne now has the two gratuitous potential boyfriend thing going on. The one she can have, but unsure of and the one she likes best but is ill-advised. But pressure helps her decide.
Fave scenes: Joanne’s burning door, the KITT car ghost cage, Joanne healing the garden and Joanne disappearing from the basement.
May 8, 2018
So much fun! As always Murphy doesn't take magic too seriously - and yet also doesn't shy away from showing us that avoiding the use of magic has consequences, just the same. I have to admit I especially appreciated her take on what a real "zombie outbreak" would entail. No one ever mentions zombie *squirrels*!!!
January 5, 2020
The name of the Hollidays child made me choke up, when I told the author she choked up also. I am loving,Oving loooooving this series of books. So much so they whrn I hit 80%von one, I go buy the next one.
Read this series. You'll laugh, you'll cry and you'll fall in love with Siobhan Graine McNamara WalkingStick
Read this series. You'll laugh, you'll cry and you'll fall in love with Siobhan Graine McNamara WalkingStick
April 7, 2020
I am really annoyed cuz Walker is so stupid and dum. She keeps acting reckless never listens to others who know better than her.. Never learn from her mistakes... Im still angry of how her Spirit guid died because of her stupidity... People died because of her.. But Nooo she is still acts without thinking. Puting people in danger.. Grrr. I dont know why am i still reading this series!!!!!!!!
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