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Jonathan Shade #2
Acheron Highway
"He stole my heart, Mr. Shade. I want you to find him and steal it back."
The dead won't stay buried in Denver, so Jonathan Shade isn't too surprised when a deceased woman shows up wanting to hire him. A necromancer stalker has stolen her heart - literally - and she needs it if she's going to live.
But Shade's jobs are never simple. The dead won't leave him alone. They work for a lovesick goddess who wants Shade to turn over her former lover. Chased by zombies, and then by an army of skeletons, Shade and his magically-engineered partner, Kelly Chan, fight to stay alive.
Keep your hands and feet in the vehicle at all times, and hang on, because there are no safe exits from Acheron Highway....
The dead won't stay buried in Denver, so Jonathan Shade isn't too surprised when a deceased woman shows up wanting to hire him. A necromancer stalker has stolen her heart - literally - and she needs it if she's going to live.
But Shade's jobs are never simple. The dead won't leave him alone. They work for a lovesick goddess who wants Shade to turn over her former lover. Chased by zombies, and then by an army of skeletons, Shade and his magically-engineered partner, Kelly Chan, fight to stay alive.
Keep your hands and feet in the vehicle at all times, and hang on, because there are no safe exits from Acheron Highway....
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
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111 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 9, 2016
My original Acheron Highway audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Gary Jonas has hit another home run with Acheron Highway, the second Jonathan Shade book.
The usual cast of characters return (albeit briefly) Kelly Chan, Brant, Esther and Jonathan along with some DGI folks which also spell a fun time – like Phil who is so terrified of Kelly that he practically wets himself when she smiles at him.
This book is darker than the first in many different ways. First the dead are walking and hunting Jonathan. They want information on the missing Charon (or Sharon as he is known to Jonathan) the lover of Hades’ Persephone. Persephone is relentless and wants Charon home where he belongs and she is willing to do anything it takes to get him back; including hurting Jonathan.
Persephone sends the walking dead after Jonathan, with a little help from DGI Jonathan thwarts that attack but finds himself knee deep in another case while trying to contact Sharon. This case involves a necromancer and his obsession with a woman who rejected him. He literally steals her heart.
Between the zombies, the army of skeletons and the vengeful Persephone Kelly, Brant and Jonathan struggle to survive. The deadly clash comes down to death – deaths that Jonathan will not tolerate; friendships end and Jonathan changes. But will the change be enough to save his friends? Can he stop Persephone?
This book is amazing. There was one point where the shocking turn of events made Jonas my least favorite author. His characters are so well developed they are almost real. He is masterful at creating twists and surprises that leave one breathless. His plots are well executed. Jonas’ books are truly like riding a roller coaster … ups and downs. This book I listened to almost non-stop because I couldn’t turn it off.
Jonas drove home that friends are important. Life is short and frail. Luck runs out; one must change eventually if friends and family are to survive. Being flippant has a place but not when it is life or death situations.
Joe Hempel does an excellent narration. As the listener I could not help but be swept away into the story as Hempel took control and became Shade. This is not something that is done easily but Hempel succeeds where others fail. The only issue I had was Hempel sounded like he was saying Essler instead of Esther. His ability to project emotions and energy into the characters through is voice brings the book alive.
There were no issues with the audio production aspect of this book. It was well done!
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
Gary Jonas has hit another home run with Acheron Highway, the second Jonathan Shade book.
The usual cast of characters return (albeit briefly) Kelly Chan, Brant, Esther and Jonathan along with some DGI folks which also spell a fun time – like Phil who is so terrified of Kelly that he practically wets himself when she smiles at him.
This book is darker than the first in many different ways. First the dead are walking and hunting Jonathan. They want information on the missing Charon (or Sharon as he is known to Jonathan) the lover of Hades’ Persephone. Persephone is relentless and wants Charon home where he belongs and she is willing to do anything it takes to get him back; including hurting Jonathan.
Persephone sends the walking dead after Jonathan, with a little help from DGI Jonathan thwarts that attack but finds himself knee deep in another case while trying to contact Sharon. This case involves a necromancer and his obsession with a woman who rejected him. He literally steals her heart.
Between the zombies, the army of skeletons and the vengeful Persephone Kelly, Brant and Jonathan struggle to survive. The deadly clash comes down to death – deaths that Jonathan will not tolerate; friendships end and Jonathan changes. But will the change be enough to save his friends? Can he stop Persephone?
This book is amazing. There was one point where the shocking turn of events made Jonas my least favorite author. His characters are so well developed they are almost real. He is masterful at creating twists and surprises that leave one breathless. His plots are well executed. Jonas’ books are truly like riding a roller coaster … ups and downs. This book I listened to almost non-stop because I couldn’t turn it off.
Jonas drove home that friends are important. Life is short and frail. Luck runs out; one must change eventually if friends and family are to survive. Being flippant has a place but not when it is life or death situations.
Joe Hempel does an excellent narration. As the listener I could not help but be swept away into the story as Hempel took control and became Shade. This is not something that is done easily but Hempel succeeds where others fail. The only issue I had was Hempel sounded like he was saying Essler instead of Esther. His ability to project emotions and energy into the characters through is voice brings the book alive.
There were no issues with the audio production aspect of this book. It was well done!
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
May 9, 2016
OMG! I absolutely love this series! After finishing, it took me a full day to gather any more rational thought than that. I loved the first book, and this one was even better. With a necromancer, some zombies, and an evil goddess, the tone was a little darker in this one. There are still humerous moments though, and it's done very well. So far both books could stand on their own, but I highly recommend reading them all and in order. It was very interesting to see the goddess Persephone in the story, and as such an evil, love sick bitch. I totally didn't see the twists coming at all. They just kept on coming too. Joe Hempel is the narrator of the audiobook, and he is perfect. I wish he could voice every audiobook in the world, he is that good. I'm so impressed with this series so far. I can't wait to start the next book, and see what Jonathan Shade gets into next!
*I was provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion of the book in any way.
*I was provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion of the book in any way.
July 5, 2024
This book was incredible! I really enjoyed it! I can't wait to read the next book!
February 22, 2016
Acheron Highway Note: While this is Book 2 in the series, it stands pretty well on it’s own. Of course, Book 1 was pretty freaking awesome, so I recommend checking it out. This book does contain plot spoilers for Book 1, just in case that would bother you if you read them out of order.
PI Jonathan Shade is still hanging out in Denver. He’s approached by Miranda, who literally has no heart. She wants him to find it. Turns out there is a necromancer wreaking havoc in the area and Shade needs to put him down. Yet he is also in hiding from a powerful goddess who demands he helps her find her old lover. The bodies pile up, and then walk around, only to be laid out flat again by Jonathan and his crew. Never a dull moment in this book!
I really enjoyed Book 1, Modern Sorcery, quite a bit and it made myTop 2015 List. So I was quite happy to return to this urban fantasy world again. Acheron Highway does not disappoint! I listened to it in one day. This book has the right combo of mystery, action, character development, and the supernatural. I was never bored and the book doesn’t fall into the trap of battle fatigue either.
Jonathan Shade continues to be an interesting character. He’s got this past that we learn more about and he also has these special abilities that he has to get creative with. In fact, towards the end he does this big trick that I wasn’t expecting. Normally, the plot device used at the end of the book would really turn me off. I like actions and choices to have consequences, and ones that our characters have to live with. But this author pulled it off really, really well. And there are still consequences, and I hope to learn how severe they are in the next book.
Kelly Chan is still my favorite female character. She’s a warrior sekutar, built by wizards to be the ultimate bodyguard. However, she went rogue some time ago and opened a martial arts studio. She’s also a loyal friend to Jonathan. In this book, she takes a pretty hard hit at the studio (riveting scene!) and it’s a game changer.
Meanwhile, Sharon, the librarian from Book 1, is in hiding after the antics she pulled. She’s walking the line of trying to keep her friends safe but also hoping it will all blow over if she just lays low. Things keeps getting bloodier and bloodier and at least part of the responsibility for that lies on Sharon’s shoulders. The friendship between Jonathan and Sharon is forever altered by what goes down in this book. Heavy duty!
This is a great addition to the urban fantasy genre!
I received a copy at no cost from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
The Narration: Joe Hempel did more fine work on this series with this book. Once again, his own enjoyment of the characters and plot comes through in his voice acting. All his characters are distinct and his female voices are believable. I love his drawl for Esther, a ghost from the 1920s, and his Asian accent for Kelly Chan.
PI Jonathan Shade is still hanging out in Denver. He’s approached by Miranda, who literally has no heart. She wants him to find it. Turns out there is a necromancer wreaking havoc in the area and Shade needs to put him down. Yet he is also in hiding from a powerful goddess who demands he helps her find her old lover. The bodies pile up, and then walk around, only to be laid out flat again by Jonathan and his crew. Never a dull moment in this book!
I really enjoyed Book 1, Modern Sorcery, quite a bit and it made myTop 2015 List. So I was quite happy to return to this urban fantasy world again. Acheron Highway does not disappoint! I listened to it in one day. This book has the right combo of mystery, action, character development, and the supernatural. I was never bored and the book doesn’t fall into the trap of battle fatigue either.
Jonathan Shade continues to be an interesting character. He’s got this past that we learn more about and he also has these special abilities that he has to get creative with. In fact, towards the end he does this big trick that I wasn’t expecting. Normally, the plot device used at the end of the book would really turn me off. I like actions and choices to have consequences, and ones that our characters have to live with. But this author pulled it off really, really well. And there are still consequences, and I hope to learn how severe they are in the next book.
Kelly Chan is still my favorite female character. She’s a warrior sekutar, built by wizards to be the ultimate bodyguard. However, she went rogue some time ago and opened a martial arts studio. She’s also a loyal friend to Jonathan. In this book, she takes a pretty hard hit at the studio (riveting scene!) and it’s a game changer.
Meanwhile, Sharon, the librarian from Book 1, is in hiding after the antics she pulled. She’s walking the line of trying to keep her friends safe but also hoping it will all blow over if she just lays low. Things keeps getting bloodier and bloodier and at least part of the responsibility for that lies on Sharon’s shoulders. The friendship between Jonathan and Sharon is forever altered by what goes down in this book. Heavy duty!
This is a great addition to the urban fantasy genre!
I received a copy at no cost from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
The Narration: Joe Hempel did more fine work on this series with this book. Once again, his own enjoyment of the characters and plot comes through in his voice acting. All his characters are distinct and his female voices are believable. I love his drawl for Esther, a ghost from the 1920s, and his Asian accent for Kelly Chan.
May 5, 2016
Acheron Highway by Gary Jonas is book 2 in the Jonathan Shade series but can be read without reading the first book but believe me, the first book is awesome and it worth reading first! This book picks up right where the other book left off. Jonathan is a PI, non-magical, in a world where he deals with the magical, and his partner is a magical engineered warrior and boy is she kick-ass. She has a boy friend that is also the same. Jonathan and partner also have a ghost that helps them, a 1920's flapper that is a hoot! There is always danger, action, mysteries, magic, lots of humor, surprisingly sadness at times, super surprises and twists, and so much creativity and wit in these stories! Love them. The ending was totally unexpected! Wow! Love this author. When I finished, I immediately dove into book 3!!!
January 31, 2016
Acheron Highway opens when Miranda Hammond walks into the office of Jonathan Shade. The thing that makes this remarkable is that a stalker literally stole Miranda's heart. She has an incision in her chest and the heart is just plain missing. Shade himself is no stranger to death, having defeated it once himself. He takes the case and while he does, he must contend with zombies who have been raised by the lovesick goddess Persephone who is seeking the man of her dreams, Charon, the ferryman who has gone missing. Shade reminds me a bit of Jim Rockford from The Rockford Files. He's the kind of detective who does his best to stay out of the trouble he gets himself into. In one scene worthy of a Ray Harryhausen movie, Shade must fight animated skeletons in a bowling alley. The ending is by turns frightening, shocking, and set up perfectly.
October 14, 2016
Audiobook review: 4 STARS (narrator Joe Hempel - 5 STARS)
Dark, suspenseful and humorous
This series gets better and it's a while since I've listened to book 1, but when I entered the world of the dead once again, I knew I'd missed Jonathan Shade.
This book is a bit darker, but also filled with humor. I'm impressed with the author's imagination and how he mixes the many different supernatural (and dead) creatures in his stories.
Joe Hempel always does an outstanding performance and very lively. He knows how to turn on the suspense, so I'm sitting on the edge in several passages of the book. He is also great with the different voices and is a perfect fit for this series.
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review.
Dark, suspenseful and humorous
This series gets better and it's a while since I've listened to book 1, but when I entered the world of the dead once again, I knew I'd missed Jonathan Shade.
This book is a bit darker, but also filled with humor. I'm impressed with the author's imagination and how he mixes the many different supernatural (and dead) creatures in his stories.
Joe Hempel always does an outstanding performance and very lively. He knows how to turn on the suspense, so I'm sitting on the edge in several passages of the book. He is also great with the different voices and is a perfect fit for this series.
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2024
Fun urban fantasy read. I like the main character premise, but the snarky PI in a magic world felt a little too Dresden for me, so I couldn't stop comparing. However, I listen to books 1-3 so liked it enough to keep going. I feel like the narrator did not help. The way he read it I did not like the character, despite liking the character type and overall actions. I will have to read future books instead of listening.
May 12, 2017
I liked the first Jonathan Shade novel, but I loved Acheron Highway! I started this title on the fence, because some books don’t need sequels. Now I’m hooked on the Jonathan Shade series. Jonas has given the characters I started to like in his first installment a new depth and complexity through this installment.
Another thing that really helped this book blow out my expectations was the remote viewing plot thread. It was really fun to call bluff with Shade as his investigation leads him down this path. I loved that movie Jonas referred to in the book, The Men Who Stare at Goats, and am intrigued by what those army guys really did in the seventies. Plus, George Clooney is great in everything, except Batman, but I think that was on the director, not the cast. Michael Keaton is my Batman.
Kelly Chan is one of my favorite characters. Not just in this book, but ever. She’s probably a close second to Kaladin in Brendan Sanderson’s Knights Radiant series. She’s tough, impossibly tough, but Shade has convinced her that life isn’t just about killing baddies. It’s about uplifting the downtrodden and then killing baddies. She met a boyfriend at the end of the first book, and their relationship took some interesting turns in this book.
I received a free audible code in exchange for a review. Any review. That fact that it’s a good one is because the book is good. Which has nothing to do with how awesome I am. You’ll have to find that out for yourself @S_Shane_Thomas on Twitter.
Joe Hempel did a great job on the narration. This is the third book he’s read to me and I’m very impressed with his quality. The characters all sound different and the voices add to Jonas’s descriptions nicely.
It’s nice when a book ends by tying all the seemingly separate plot threads into a pretty knot. The end of this book was unexpected and awesome! I don’t want to spoil, but just be assured that it’s a great ending. I’m looking forward to the rest of this series.
Another thing that really helped this book blow out my expectations was the remote viewing plot thread. It was really fun to call bluff with Shade as his investigation leads him down this path. I loved that movie Jonas referred to in the book, The Men Who Stare at Goats, and am intrigued by what those army guys really did in the seventies. Plus, George Clooney is great in everything, except Batman, but I think that was on the director, not the cast. Michael Keaton is my Batman.
Kelly Chan is one of my favorite characters. Not just in this book, but ever. She’s probably a close second to Kaladin in Brendan Sanderson’s Knights Radiant series. She’s tough, impossibly tough, but Shade has convinced her that life isn’t just about killing baddies. It’s about uplifting the downtrodden and then killing baddies. She met a boyfriend at the end of the first book, and their relationship took some interesting turns in this book.
I received a free audible code in exchange for a review. Any review. That fact that it’s a good one is because the book is good. Which has nothing to do with how awesome I am. You’ll have to find that out for yourself @S_Shane_Thomas on Twitter.
Joe Hempel did a great job on the narration. This is the third book he’s read to me and I’m very impressed with his quality. The characters all sound different and the voices add to Jonas’s descriptions nicely.
It’s nice when a book ends by tying all the seemingly separate plot threads into a pretty knot. The end of this book was unexpected and awesome! I don’t want to spoil, but just be assured that it’s a great ending. I’m looking forward to the rest of this series.
January 7, 2021
I loved this book. This is the second Jonathan Shade book and although I enjoyed the first book it in no way prepared me for what was to come in this instalment and I can't wait to see what happens in book three. It is bound to be a wild ride. The author is a very talented writer and he creates a very vivid world with his words only but it is a good job you don't feel every punch that is thrown or you would be spending the night in the hospital. The characters are what makes it great and the reason your heart is in your mouth most of the time because you really come to like and care for them. Even Jonathan's ability to annoy everyone is a source of amusement.
It seems the dead just won't stay dead in Jonathan's world, even his latest client might actually be dead, she just doesn't know it. Her boyfriend has stolen her heart, literally, and she wants to hire him to get it back from the necromancer. At the same time a Goddess wants him to bring his friend Sharon back to her and with the power to make the dead rise he might just have to do it. The problem is Sharon use to be Charon (the ferry man taking poqst souls to the other side) in a previous life and she\he doesn't want to go back. How will Jonathan get out of this mess? And at what cost?
I really like the narrator and hope he has plans to stick with the series. He has a nice, clear speaking voice which just lends himself to the characters.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
It seems the dead just won't stay dead in Jonathan's world, even his latest client might actually be dead, she just doesn't know it. Her boyfriend has stolen her heart, literally, and she wants to hire him to get it back from the necromancer. At the same time a Goddess wants him to bring his friend Sharon back to her and with the power to make the dead rise he might just have to do it. The problem is Sharon use to be Charon (the ferry man taking poqst souls to the other side) in a previous life and she\he doesn't want to go back. How will Jonathan get out of this mess? And at what cost?
I really like the narrator and hope he has plans to stick with the series. He has a nice, clear speaking voice which just lends himself to the characters.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 20, 2018
Acheron Highway, Jonathan Shade, Book #2
by Gary Jonas
Another excellent adventure with Jonathan and his friends, psuedo-friends, and enemies. This one had a dandy plot twist toward the end that I not only did not see coming, but that I couldn't have imagined coming. Kudos! That, and the resolution of that twist, made this a solid 7 star in my opinion (but sorry Gary Jonas, only 5 stars allowed).
Editing was excellent. Proofing almost perfect, although I did find one error at 2153 on my Kindle. But otherwise, things were fine. Great pacing and flow. Fascinating use of magical lore and innovative takes on mythological beings. Character development for all of the regulars. Lots and lots of action. Plenty of gore (not my favorite, but appropriate in this tale).
So Sharon has disappeared into another dimension and suddenly there are formerly dead folks walking around. Turns out Persephone wants her lover back (Sharon nee Charon), Sharon doesn't want to go back, and Jonathan and his friends are stuck in the middle. Chaos ensues. Who survives? Who doesn't survive? You'll have to read it to find out.
I'm so happy I decided to give this series a try. I'm anxious to get to the next in line, although I'll give it a bit of a break to read some other books on my to-read list.
by Gary Jonas
Another excellent adventure with Jonathan and his friends, psuedo-friends, and enemies. This one had a dandy plot twist toward the end that I not only did not see coming, but that I couldn't have imagined coming. Kudos! That, and the resolution of that twist, made this a solid 7 star in my opinion (but sorry Gary Jonas, only 5 stars allowed).
Editing was excellent. Proofing almost perfect, although I did find one error at 2153 on my Kindle. But otherwise, things were fine. Great pacing and flow. Fascinating use of magical lore and innovative takes on mythological beings. Character development for all of the regulars. Lots and lots of action. Plenty of gore (not my favorite, but appropriate in this tale).
So Sharon has disappeared into another dimension and suddenly there are formerly dead folks walking around. Turns out Persephone wants her lover back (Sharon nee Charon), Sharon doesn't want to go back, and Jonathan and his friends are stuck in the middle. Chaos ensues. Who survives? Who doesn't survive? You'll have to read it to find out.
I'm so happy I decided to give this series a try. I'm anxious to get to the next in line, although I'll give it a bit of a break to read some other books on my to-read list.
June 29, 2023
The dead are rising. Persephone is sending them to Shade in order to be lead to Sharon/Charon. So when he arrives at his office to find a beautiful woman leaning against the wall, who happens to be dead he assumed she was another messenger from Persephone.
The woman is missing her heart, but is still effectively alive, even though she isn't. She wants to hire Shade to retrieve her heart from the necromancer who took it, still beating from her chest.
The book was a solid 3-3.5 stars right until the end where it jumped to a 4
The woman is missing her heart, but is still effectively alive, even though she isn't. She wants to hire Shade to retrieve her heart from the necromancer who took it, still beating from her chest.
The book was a solid 3-3.5 stars right until the end where it jumped to a 4
July 24, 2018
I loved getting to see more of Jonathan and the gang. This was a great look at the dead and destruction of everything. Ok not really the destruction of everything, but you'll understand when you read it. I loved getting more of the story and getting to see how its all unfolding. Great read and well worth listening to. I can't wait for more.
August 3, 2020
This book was a great sequel until around 60% of the book. Then the narrative glossed over two insanely powerful things like nothing: . The fact that deus ex machina and easy fix solutions saved the day makes this a two star even if the first 60 percent was a solid 4. Nonetheless, I am on to book 3.
February 11, 2020
Jonathan Shade is pulled in to battle against the undead, as someone is hunting his friend Sharon. Good book that starts six months after he lost his former love, Shade again finds himself fighting for his friends lives.
October 18, 2025
Wow didn't see that happening!
This was a really great experience in how you think you know what's going on isn't even close. So much can happen to your friends that he didn't know how to live with. But then there is a really interesting thing that happened. Just wow.
This was a really great experience in how you think you know what's going on isn't even close. So much can happen to your friends that he didn't know how to live with. But then there is a really interesting thing that happened. Just wow.
July 6, 2017
Daaaaaaaaaaaaaammmmmmmmm
Dude that was some sick ass twist, like fuck. Lovable characters, interesting plot but the last few chapters. Dammmmmmmmmmm! Love it,
Dude that was some sick ass twist, like fuck. Lovable characters, interesting plot but the last few chapters. Dammmmmmmmmmm! Love it,
August 6, 2019
3.5 stars - this went to a surprising place near the end, up 'til that point it kind of meandered along
May 4, 2021
Wow
What an ending! I am looking forward to seeing how that affects Shade in future books.
More complex than you realize.
What an ending! I am looking forward to seeing how that affects Shade in future books.
More complex than you realize.
August 16, 2023
Everything was going OK till the very end where it seems the author decided not to lose interesting secondary characters and presto chango everything is cheesy and fine.
Ug. Barely 3 stars.
Ug. Barely 3 stars.
June 10, 2025
Well...
Or rather, not well at all.
I admit it freely. Dear fellow readers, I underestimated what the Author was willing to do to us.
Cheating? No.
Magic.
Or rather, not well at all.
I admit it freely. Dear fellow readers, I underestimated what the Author was willing to do to us.
Cheating? No.
Magic.
December 24, 2016
Great sequel to the first. I am really enjoying this series so far.
March 6, 2016
I was drawn into the story at the first chapter. Gary dives in to the client waiting for Jonathan and what her ailment is. And her ailment is one that caught my attention. Then Jonathan is on the case and there is always something 'off' for someone that keeps me curious.
The ending was far from what I expected. It was a tough one, but... Well, you have to read it. ;) The last chapter brings Jonathan around to a whole new level of being. It advances his character quickly but we see the torment the time has had on him. With this change, I'm curious to continue with the series to see him in this state of mind and what he's learned in his training.
****FULL REVIEW****
*I requested to review a copy of this audiobook for an honest review from the author or narrator.
Miranda wants to hire Jonathan Shade to get her heart back. She had a boyfriend a year ago that won't let go and has stalked her ever since. The man has decided that since he can't win her heart, he'll steal it. Sharon, his library friend he hasn't seen in months pops in. She warns Jonathan to be careful, rumor has it the dead aren't staying dead in Denver and they are looking for her. Being her friend who can see ghosts, they might come after him. Dealing with rising dead bodies wanting to find Sharon, Jonathan calls his partner Kelly and lets her know they need to handle this for Sharon.
Joe is the narrator again for the series. He paces the story with Jonathan's personality, faster at times when in distress and calmer when relaxed. He does voice differences for the characters, though most of the story is from Jonathan's POV. We get the voice of a seventy year old man, Walter, but he's strong sounding too. Most of all the feel of the voices comes across different for each character. There was one small section of repeated words that were missed in editing, but it's toward the end of the book and something easily looked over.
I was drawn into the story at the first chapter. Gary dives in to the client waiting for Jonathan and what her ailment is. And her ailment is one that caught my attention. Then Jonathan is on the case and there is always something 'off' for someone that keeps me curious.
We get to see our secondary characters, Gary's friends and those he 'works' with, again. We also pick up a few new characters - Miranda and Persephone. They both have their troubles they go to Gary with, and a huge impact on him. Gary is our snarky, one liner man from the first book. He's a bit depressed though, after what happened with Naomi. However, Gary also seems to be a bit over confident in himself and his plans. He learns that lesson in the harshest way possible here. I think this will be soothed out with the books to come with the ending here.
The ending was far from what I expected. Eye popping! It was a tough one, but... Well, you have to read it. ;) The last chapter brings Jonathan around to a whole new level of being. It advances his character quickly but we see the torment the time has had on him. With this change, I'm curious to continue with the series to see him in this state of mind and what he's learned in his training.
The ending was far from what I expected. It was a tough one, but... Well, you have to read it. ;) The last chapter brings Jonathan around to a whole new level of being. It advances his character quickly but we see the torment the time has had on him. With this change, I'm curious to continue with the series to see him in this state of mind and what he's learned in his training.
****FULL REVIEW****
*I requested to review a copy of this audiobook for an honest review from the author or narrator.
Miranda wants to hire Jonathan Shade to get her heart back. She had a boyfriend a year ago that won't let go and has stalked her ever since. The man has decided that since he can't win her heart, he'll steal it. Sharon, his library friend he hasn't seen in months pops in. She warns Jonathan to be careful, rumor has it the dead aren't staying dead in Denver and they are looking for her. Being her friend who can see ghosts, they might come after him. Dealing with rising dead bodies wanting to find Sharon, Jonathan calls his partner Kelly and lets her know they need to handle this for Sharon.
Joe is the narrator again for the series. He paces the story with Jonathan's personality, faster at times when in distress and calmer when relaxed. He does voice differences for the characters, though most of the story is from Jonathan's POV. We get the voice of a seventy year old man, Walter, but he's strong sounding too. Most of all the feel of the voices comes across different for each character. There was one small section of repeated words that were missed in editing, but it's toward the end of the book and something easily looked over.
I was drawn into the story at the first chapter. Gary dives in to the client waiting for Jonathan and what her ailment is. And her ailment is one that caught my attention. Then Jonathan is on the case and there is always something 'off' for someone that keeps me curious.
We get to see our secondary characters, Gary's friends and those he 'works' with, again. We also pick up a few new characters - Miranda and Persephone. They both have their troubles they go to Gary with, and a huge impact on him. Gary is our snarky, one liner man from the first book. He's a bit depressed though, after what happened with Naomi. However, Gary also seems to be a bit over confident in himself and his plans. He learns that lesson in the harshest way possible here. I think this will be soothed out with the books to come with the ending here.
The ending was far from what I expected. Eye popping! It was a tough one, but... Well, you have to read it. ;) The last chapter brings Jonathan around to a whole new level of being. It advances his character quickly but we see the torment the time has had on him. With this change, I'm curious to continue with the series to see him in this state of mind and what he's learned in his training.
April 9, 2016
Sequels suck. Everyone knows that. Even reading a series, people tend to find faults and bury themselves in those faults saying the third book will be better. Sequels tend to suck.
This one did not suck.
I am old enough to be jaded. I am old enough and have studied and read enough to see the formula as I read/listen. Nine times out of ten, I can see the end even before the middle and my entertainment is the path that gets me there.
Then there’s the tenth time. The time when I didn’t see it coming. This is that time.
I knew what would happen after the climax. But I did NOT see the end of that battle. And I had to pause, to take a minute and work out a few things in my head.
For an author to hook me with the ewwww factor at the beginning, drag me along for the ride and into THAT battle…. For an author to keep me entertained so much that sentence construction and “you expect me to believe that” never distracts me from the story….
Reviewers always talk about books “gripping them and never letting go.” Except for a few exceptions, I haven’t been “gripped” in a very long time. This is one of those exceptions.
When I say, pick up this book and read it. I mean carve out a bit of your time and let go. Let this freakin’ thing take you to hell and back. This path is fun.
As always, I skimmed through the reviews after listening. Wanna know something interesting? On three sites, THREE sites, there are very few reviews with less than FOUR stars.
That includes Audible where there were definitive opinions about Mr. Hempel’s narrative ability and the choice to even have him narrate.
I don’t see any complaints here.
While I’ve come to certain conclusions about Mr. Hempel being one of my favs and I know that most people will/should take it with a grain of salt that I’ll probably say something nice about his narrative talents, I am unashamed. Mr. Hempel did a fantastic job. Somehow, he manages to enunciate consistently and still emote a sense of intensity, where I, personally, would have blubbered and mumbled if I’d had to read this aloud.
Even though I truly enjoyed this rollercoaster, the best part is the ability to recommend this to my middle kid who I usually have to cajole into reading. While I’m telling him about Jonathan Shade, he’s nodding, saying, “Sure, some kids at school are reading/listening to the same thing. You like it? Yup, I’ll give it a go.” And after I’ve told him about it, I notice he’s watching the first season of Bones, something I’ve been trying to get him into since the beginning. So when the mention of Kathy Reichs happens as I’m listening, I have to pause and share with the kid. He loved it. “So do I have a copy, Mom?”
“Well, duh, little one, if I have it, so do you.”
Check out my review of the first book here: tripping the page fantastic
This one did not suck.
I am old enough to be jaded. I am old enough and have studied and read enough to see the formula as I read/listen. Nine times out of ten, I can see the end even before the middle and my entertainment is the path that gets me there.
Then there’s the tenth time. The time when I didn’t see it coming. This is that time.
I knew what would happen after the climax. But I did NOT see the end of that battle. And I had to pause, to take a minute and work out a few things in my head.
For an author to hook me with the ewwww factor at the beginning, drag me along for the ride and into THAT battle…. For an author to keep me entertained so much that sentence construction and “you expect me to believe that” never distracts me from the story….
Reviewers always talk about books “gripping them and never letting go.” Except for a few exceptions, I haven’t been “gripped” in a very long time. This is one of those exceptions.
When I say, pick up this book and read it. I mean carve out a bit of your time and let go. Let this freakin’ thing take you to hell and back. This path is fun.
As always, I skimmed through the reviews after listening. Wanna know something interesting? On three sites, THREE sites, there are very few reviews with less than FOUR stars.
That includes Audible where there were definitive opinions about Mr. Hempel’s narrative ability and the choice to even have him narrate.
I don’t see any complaints here.
While I’ve come to certain conclusions about Mr. Hempel being one of my favs and I know that most people will/should take it with a grain of salt that I’ll probably say something nice about his narrative talents, I am unashamed. Mr. Hempel did a fantastic job. Somehow, he manages to enunciate consistently and still emote a sense of intensity, where I, personally, would have blubbered and mumbled if I’d had to read this aloud.
Even though I truly enjoyed this rollercoaster, the best part is the ability to recommend this to my middle kid who I usually have to cajole into reading. While I’m telling him about Jonathan Shade, he’s nodding, saying, “Sure, some kids at school are reading/listening to the same thing. You like it? Yup, I’ll give it a go.” And after I’ve told him about it, I notice he’s watching the first season of Bones, something I’ve been trying to get him into since the beginning. So when the mention of Kathy Reichs happens as I’m listening, I have to pause and share with the kid. He loved it. “So do I have a copy, Mom?”
“Well, duh, little one, if I have it, so do you.”
Check out my review of the first book here: tripping the page fantastic
August 18, 2016
(Audio format)
"Just another Tuesday night in Denver."
Still grieving over the death of his one time girlfriend (see Modern Sorcery), Jonathan Shade's.day is about to get worse. Firstly comes the arrival of an unwelcome new client, a beautiful blond who claims that a stalker has stolen her heart - literally - and she wants it back. Then a goddess appears demanding that he find the hiding place of her ex lover, or else...As first hordes of reanimated dead bodies, then an army of skeletons, start attacking, Jonathan fin inds himself facing the likely death of himself and his friends.
This book is darker than the first in the series but still shares the same action packed adventure, superb characterisations, fast dialogue and quick humour. Shade is the son of two wizards but has no magic of his own other than the power to be impervious to anyone else's sorcery. What he does have is a sharp mind, a quick wit, a doting secretary assistant who just happens to be a ghost, and Kelly, close friend and superb warrior assassin. With a little help from these, and other, friends our intrepid P.I. will surely find a way to restore the girl's heart and battle the demons...Or will he?
Joe Hempel, the narrator, is Shade. His easy on the ear voice conveys all of the emotions engulfing the P.I., from whose point of view this book is written, and perfectly matches the overall pace of the story. But additionally, Joe also gives clear and distinct voices to all of the other protagonists as they appear, and is able to faultlessly sustain conversation between them and Jonathan in this remarkable performance
This is the second book in the Jonathan Shade series but it is not necessary to have read the first, Modern Sorcery, to enjoy it. But I am sue that any reader who has not already done so would want to go back to find out more about our talented detective. Recommended to all who enjoy fun and good dialogue with their mystery thrillers and a nice slice of weird, too.
My thanks to the rights holder of Acheron Highway, who sent me a complimentary copy, via Audiobook Boom, in expectation of an unbiased review. This I have given
"Just another Tuesday night in Denver."
Still grieving over the death of his one time girlfriend (see Modern Sorcery), Jonathan Shade's.day is about to get worse. Firstly comes the arrival of an unwelcome new client, a beautiful blond who claims that a stalker has stolen her heart - literally - and she wants it back. Then a goddess appears demanding that he find the hiding place of her ex lover, or else...As first hordes of reanimated dead bodies, then an army of skeletons, start attacking, Jonathan fin inds himself facing the likely death of himself and his friends.
This book is darker than the first in the series but still shares the same action packed adventure, superb characterisations, fast dialogue and quick humour. Shade is the son of two wizards but has no magic of his own other than the power to be impervious to anyone else's sorcery. What he does have is a sharp mind, a quick wit, a doting secretary assistant who just happens to be a ghost, and Kelly, close friend and superb warrior assassin. With a little help from these, and other, friends our intrepid P.I. will surely find a way to restore the girl's heart and battle the demons...Or will he?
Joe Hempel, the narrator, is Shade. His easy on the ear voice conveys all of the emotions engulfing the P.I., from whose point of view this book is written, and perfectly matches the overall pace of the story. But additionally, Joe also gives clear and distinct voices to all of the other protagonists as they appear, and is able to faultlessly sustain conversation between them and Jonathan in this remarkable performance
This is the second book in the Jonathan Shade series but it is not necessary to have read the first, Modern Sorcery, to enjoy it. But I am sue that any reader who has not already done so would want to go back to find out more about our talented detective. Recommended to all who enjoy fun and good dialogue with their mystery thrillers and a nice slice of weird, too.
My thanks to the rights holder of Acheron Highway, who sent me a complimentary copy, via Audiobook Boom, in expectation of an unbiased review. This I have given
November 3, 2016
I've become a fan of Joe Hempel's narration. It's smooth, professionally edited, he's got great voices for all the characters (which I can identify by hearing the voice without needing the dialogue tags), and you can tell he loves this series. I would recommend this book on his vocal work alone.
Thankfully, there's a lot more to this book than just wonderful narration. This is the second book in the Johnathan Shade series, and it's an improvement over the first. I had debated giving it 3 stars for story, but there were enough improvements I think it merits four. The plot once again starts out with an "impossible" task/mystery to solve: a client comes to Johnathan saying someone stole her heart... LITERALLY. Interesting, yes? There's another sub plot going on concerning the ruler of the Underworld, Persephone, and Johnathan's friend Sharon which affects the main plot, tying together and around each other in a satisfactory way. I shan't give too many details because of spoilers.
The side characters around Johnathan continue to be wonderful, and I ADORE Brand. Brand and Kelly forever!!! FOREVER. Walter is a great new addition to the cast as well, and I love the explanation of his ability and where it came from. I love Kelly to death, and I adore Esther... but Johnathan. I am still having trouble making that connection to Johnathan. Sometimes, he's a great character and I think, "Ok, yeah, I see where this is going. I like this." Then other times, I got angry and felt disconnected. Does he *really* have to joke around that much? And the jokes...some of them aren't really that funny. Because of that disconnect (at times, not ALL the time), I have to mark this book lower, even though I enjoyed the side characters so much.
The last thing I want to say is about the ending. I didn't care for it. There's several reasons for this, but again... spoilers, I don't want to give you any, especially because I thought the rest of the plot was done so well. Other people may not have the same objections I have too. No matter what, I would absolutely recommend people giving this book a try. 4 stars. :)
Thankfully, there's a lot more to this book than just wonderful narration. This is the second book in the Johnathan Shade series, and it's an improvement over the first. I had debated giving it 3 stars for story, but there were enough improvements I think it merits four. The plot once again starts out with an "impossible" task/mystery to solve: a client comes to Johnathan saying someone stole her heart... LITERALLY. Interesting, yes? There's another sub plot going on concerning the ruler of the Underworld, Persephone, and Johnathan's friend Sharon which affects the main plot, tying together and around each other in a satisfactory way. I shan't give too many details because of spoilers.
The side characters around Johnathan continue to be wonderful, and I ADORE Brand. Brand and Kelly forever!!! FOREVER. Walter is a great new addition to the cast as well, and I love the explanation of his ability and where it came from. I love Kelly to death, and I adore Esther... but Johnathan. I am still having trouble making that connection to Johnathan. Sometimes, he's a great character and I think, "Ok, yeah, I see where this is going. I like this." Then other times, I got angry and felt disconnected. Does he *really* have to joke around that much? And the jokes...some of them aren't really that funny. Because of that disconnect (at times, not ALL the time), I have to mark this book lower, even though I enjoyed the side characters so much.
The last thing I want to say is about the ending. I didn't care for it. There's several reasons for this, but again... spoilers, I don't want to give you any, especially because I thought the rest of the plot was done so well. Other people may not have the same objections I have too. No matter what, I would absolutely recommend people giving this book a try. 4 stars. :)
May 12, 2016
I was provided a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second novel belonging to the Jonathan Shade series. This time our private investigator receives the visit of Miranda, a woman whose heart has been stolen by a necromancer. Jonathan is not surprised by this event, since the dead have been raising lately in Denver. The reason behind this is that Persephone, the rule of the Underworld, wants her lover Charon to return to her at all costs, and if Jonathan does not help her, his friends will pay with their lives. Jonathan will also have to see whether Miranda's case is related to it. He will have to find his motivation back after the affairs that happened six months before.
This book is a lot darker than the previous one. Jonathan will count with the help of his friends again, but his fight here will be much more lonely and most of the time he will have to fight against his own demons. There are quite some twists to the story, some expected and others not, but one thing is sure: this story will not leave you indifferent.
As usual, Gary Jonas has created an exciting quick paced story, full of details and vivid characters. This is not my usual genre but I love the world Jonas has created and the characters in it are unique and full of personality. When I finished the book I was already missing them. I will be listening to the complete series.
Joe Hempel's narration and style contributes to how exciting these books are. His tone is compelling, he can make voices and he knows how to grab your attention. He truly becomes Jonathan and helps to complete his cheeky personality. Hempel has become one of my favorite narrators in the last months.
This series has been a pleasant surprise for me. As I have said, this is not my usual genre, but these stories have grabbed me from the start, and part of it is thanks to Joe Hempel's narration.
This is the second novel belonging to the Jonathan Shade series. This time our private investigator receives the visit of Miranda, a woman whose heart has been stolen by a necromancer. Jonathan is not surprised by this event, since the dead have been raising lately in Denver. The reason behind this is that Persephone, the rule of the Underworld, wants her lover Charon to return to her at all costs, and if Jonathan does not help her, his friends will pay with their lives. Jonathan will also have to see whether Miranda's case is related to it. He will have to find his motivation back after the affairs that happened six months before.
This book is a lot darker than the previous one. Jonathan will count with the help of his friends again, but his fight here will be much more lonely and most of the time he will have to fight against his own demons. There are quite some twists to the story, some expected and others not, but one thing is sure: this story will not leave you indifferent.
As usual, Gary Jonas has created an exciting quick paced story, full of details and vivid characters. This is not my usual genre but I love the world Jonas has created and the characters in it are unique and full of personality. When I finished the book I was already missing them. I will be listening to the complete series.
Joe Hempel's narration and style contributes to how exciting these books are. His tone is compelling, he can make voices and he knows how to grab your attention. He truly becomes Jonathan and helps to complete his cheeky personality. Hempel has become one of my favorite narrators in the last months.
This series has been a pleasant surprise for me. As I have said, this is not my usual genre, but these stories have grabbed me from the start, and part of it is thanks to Joe Hempel's narration.
March 14, 2016
Acheron Highway is the second book in the Jonathan Shade series. Jonathan Shade is a private investigator that deals with the paranormal. He is hired by deceased woman who wants her heart back. Her heart has been stolen by a necromancer stalker. On top of it, a vindicated goddess wants her former lover back and is sending the dead after him.
This story gives a whole new side to the goddess, Persephone. Persephone is not as innocent as the Greek mythology has painted her. There is a whole new dark side to her.
Shade is as loyal to Kelly Chan (a magically engineered warrior) as she is to him. Kelly is Shade's muscle and friend. Shade has a smart mouth and love to stick it to the "man". He is a bit naive as choosing who his friends are.
There is a lot more depth to Shade. Since I started this book first instead of Modern Sorcery, I missed what has transpired before this story. Readers/Listeners will eventually find out when Shade is pushed against the wall and how his decisions have affected his judgement throughout this story.
Toward the end of the book, I was feeling that this story cannot end like this to Shade. Let say readers/listeners would want to read the next book. Shade has reached another life altercation.
The narrator Joe Hempel does a very good job with Shade. There are times I could hear the carefree Shade to a serious Shade. Shade is a very complex man to understand. I also like the characteristics that the narrator has given to Brand. Brand is Neanderthal Man where he enjoyed fights but he is so whipped when it comes to Kelly.
I was given this audiobook by the narrator via Audiobook Blast in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated or influenced in any way on writing this review.
This story gives a whole new side to the goddess, Persephone. Persephone is not as innocent as the Greek mythology has painted her. There is a whole new dark side to her.
Shade is as loyal to Kelly Chan (a magically engineered warrior) as she is to him. Kelly is Shade's muscle and friend. Shade has a smart mouth and love to stick it to the "man". He is a bit naive as choosing who his friends are.
There is a lot more depth to Shade. Since I started this book first instead of Modern Sorcery, I missed what has transpired before this story. Readers/Listeners will eventually find out when Shade is pushed against the wall and how his decisions have affected his judgement throughout this story.
Toward the end of the book, I was feeling that this story cannot end like this to Shade. Let say readers/listeners would want to read the next book. Shade has reached another life altercation.
The narrator Joe Hempel does a very good job with Shade. There are times I could hear the carefree Shade to a serious Shade. Shade is a very complex man to understand. I also like the characteristics that the narrator has given to Brand. Brand is Neanderthal Man where he enjoyed fights but he is so whipped when it comes to Kelly.
I was given this audiobook by the narrator via Audiobook Blast in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated or influenced in any way on writing this review.
April 16, 2016
Acheron Highway continues the story of Jonathan Shade paranormal PI; filling in more of the back story hinted at in book one and leading us on a tale that pulls at your heart, makes you laugh and gets you even more attached to the characters. Much darker in nature than the first book, it still contains some humour and snappy one liners; it also has some unusual twists and a surprise ending that worked well in this story. It advanced Slade's character but there are some consequences to his actions and I think the repercussions will spill over into the next book. The conflict, tension and heartache was intense in the book, it captures you and you just can't put it down. Joe Hempel's narration managed to convey the depth of emotion in the characters perfectly and he easily portrayed the individual personalities and accents. I look forward to the next audiobook in the series. I received this audiobook at no cost in exchange for an honest review
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