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Soul Shamans #1
Bone Dry
Sometimes it isn’t as easy as choosing right or wrong.
Sixteen-year-old Holly Bennett is a comic book nerd, a con artist, and a shaman. Most days Holly wishes she could trade in her power of spirit communication for something more useful--like fireballs or Wolverine claws. She knows spirits aren't exactly Casper the Friendly Ghosts. They're dangerous beings from Lower World who snack on human life, and messing with the magic from their world is an express ticket to big trouble. But when a shaman sticks her mom's mind between their world and ours, Holly becomes the unexpected breadwinner in the family. She uses her burgeoning shaman powers to set up fake hauntings and "banish" the so-called ghosts from her wealthy classmates' bedrooms. For a fee, of course.
When actual spirits start manifesting, Holly discovers that other shamans have come to town, summoning life-sucking spirits for their own ends. And the newcomers may just hold the clue Holly's been looking for--the one that can release her mom's mind from its Lower World prison. With the help of both a cute web comic artist and her partner-in-con, Holly plots to take them down, throwing her into a whirlwind of speedboat getaways, breaking and entering, and astral projections into the spirit world. And as her mom's mind slips further away, Holly has to fight to save her, and the rest of the town, before they get sucked into Lower World permanently.
Sixteen-year-old Holly Bennett is a comic book nerd, a con artist, and a shaman. Most days Holly wishes she could trade in her power of spirit communication for something more useful--like fireballs or Wolverine claws. She knows spirits aren't exactly Casper the Friendly Ghosts. They're dangerous beings from Lower World who snack on human life, and messing with the magic from their world is an express ticket to big trouble. But when a shaman sticks her mom's mind between their world and ours, Holly becomes the unexpected breadwinner in the family. She uses her burgeoning shaman powers to set up fake hauntings and "banish" the so-called ghosts from her wealthy classmates' bedrooms. For a fee, of course.
When actual spirits start manifesting, Holly discovers that other shamans have come to town, summoning life-sucking spirits for their own ends. And the newcomers may just hold the clue Holly's been looking for--the one that can release her mom's mind from its Lower World prison. With the help of both a cute web comic artist and her partner-in-con, Holly plots to take them down, throwing her into a whirlwind of speedboat getaways, breaking and entering, and astral projections into the spirit world. And as her mom's mind slips further away, Holly has to fight to save her, and the rest of the town, before they get sucked into Lower World permanently.
372 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2015
48 people are currently reading
2002 people want to read
About the author
Cady Vance
11 books136 followersCady Vance is the author of YA and NA speculative fiction. After growing up in small-town Tennessee, she decided to embark on a grand adventure by packing up her bags and moving to NYC. Now, she studies for her PhD in the UK and dreams of seeing the universe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 6, 2016
Bone Dry is one of the better entries assigned to our FantasyLiterature.com team for the 2016 Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO) competition. Although I personally preferred The Shadow Soul in our first round competition, this one might be very appealing to teenage girls who like urban fantasy/paranormal romance.
Here it's our main character, Holly, who has the paranormal powers: she's a shaman, a sort of teenage ghostbuster who can sense and deal with spirits and demons in the spirit realms that surround ours.
Actually these shamans use runes, blood and herbs, chant spells, and toss around chicken bones to oust evil spirits, but ray guns that capture psychic essences might have been a fun add?
Anyway, Holly's kind of a geek, into comics and unconventionality. Her mother is also a shaman -- the power tends to be inherited -- but has only taught Holly limited skills and spells. And now her mother has been attacked by an enemy shaman, and her mind is slowly slipping away, into the Lower World realm. Holly's been barely scraping by, doing some spiritual con games with her shaman friend Laura to earn enough money to get by. But now some actual house hauntings are occurring in their neighborhood, potentially deadly to the people who live there, and it looks like they're caused by more evil shamans. Luckily Holly has the help of her friend Laura and cute guy Nate, a comic artist, to help her.
There are a few awkwardnesses in the writing, and the mystery, as it unraveled, wasn't everything I hoped for. But for a self-published novel, this is a solid effort. The plot moves along quickly, and the "shaman" aspect gives this novel a bit of a difference from most paranormal fantasies. I think this book will be very well liked by the right type of reader. I just wasn't quite it.
Here it's our main character, Holly, who has the paranormal powers: she's a shaman, a sort of teenage ghostbuster who can sense and deal with spirits and demons in the spirit realms that surround ours.
Actually these shamans use runes, blood and herbs, chant spells, and toss around chicken bones to oust evil spirits, but ray guns that capture psychic essences might have been a fun add?
Anyway, Holly's kind of a geek, into comics and unconventionality. Her mother is also a shaman -- the power tends to be inherited -- but has only taught Holly limited skills and spells. And now her mother has been attacked by an enemy shaman, and her mind is slowly slipping away, into the Lower World realm. Holly's been barely scraping by, doing some spiritual con games with her shaman friend Laura to earn enough money to get by. But now some actual house hauntings are occurring in their neighborhood, potentially deadly to the people who live there, and it looks like they're caused by more evil shamans. Luckily Holly has the help of her friend Laura and cute guy Nate, a comic artist, to help her.
There are a few awkwardnesses in the writing, and the mystery, as it unraveled, wasn't everything I hoped for. But for a self-published novel, this is a solid effort. The plot moves along quickly, and the "shaman" aspect gives this novel a bit of a difference from most paranormal fantasies. I think this book will be very well liked by the right type of reader. I just wasn't quite it.
March 21, 2015
2.5 stars
Providing services to protect houses from evil spirits, Holly is a newby Shaman and needs money because her mom is almost dying. When Holly decides to team up with Laura to do pranks on her friends in order to get some cash, everything goes well until real spirits show up just about everywhere in her town. But every time she tries to banish them, two men randomly appear and try to kill her and she wants to know why. Now, she has to do all in her power to save her whole town from evil shamans and her dying mother that happens to be stuck between our world and the one of spirits.
It was OK, but it could've been better. The plot, in my opinion, was way to simple for a book this long. I felt like it had lots of place left to make the story even more exciting. Where are the twists? ( yeah, there was one big one towards the end, but it's not enough!) Where are the turns? Add more. Spice it up here and there you know? Nathan and Holly felt really fake for me. It just happened so quickly I felt like the relationship didn't even have time to develop, therefore I didn't feel the connection nor the love.
Writing was fine, but had a several typos here and there.
Overall, it was just a normal book. Nothing special to it.*shrugs*
Providing services to protect houses from evil spirits, Holly is a newby Shaman and needs money because her mom is almost dying. When Holly decides to team up with Laura to do pranks on her friends in order to get some cash, everything goes well until real spirits show up just about everywhere in her town. But every time she tries to banish them, two men randomly appear and try to kill her and she wants to know why. Now, she has to do all in her power to save her whole town from evil shamans and her dying mother that happens to be stuck between our world and the one of spirits.
It was OK, but it could've been better. The plot, in my opinion, was way to simple for a book this long. I felt like it had lots of place left to make the story even more exciting. Where are the twists? ( yeah, there was one big one towards the end, but it's not enough!) Where are the turns? Add more. Spice it up here and there you know? Nathan and Holly felt really fake for me. It just happened so quickly I felt like the relationship didn't even have time to develop, therefore I didn't feel the connection nor the love.
Writing was fine, but had a several typos here and there.
Overall, it was just a normal book. Nothing special to it.*shrugs*
February 24, 2015
I picked up Bone Dry because the shamanic elements intrigued me. The premise and pacing drew me in from the start. Besides the high stakes battle for Holly, the story had a great character in her best friend, and the romance between Holly and Nathan grew as the story progressed. I like that the romance wasn't central to the plot (but it was very cute: hotties who love comics? yes please!). It was definitely an adventure as Holly worked to figure out the mysterious goings-on in her town and I was rooting for her until the next page. Looking forward to Vance's next novel!
July 12, 2015
Thank you to author Cady Vance for providing me with an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Bone Dry by Cady Vance is a sharp and visually entertaining novel that follows a likable heroine and weaves together intriguing elements of shamans I’ve yet to see in this fun read that will keep you easily entertained!
Bone Dry introduces readers to Holly, a sixteen year old girl who comes from a long line of shamans and whose life changed drastically when her mother was left a shell of her former self during a shaman job gone wrong. Taking care of her now mentally troubled mother, Holly is now responsible for paying the bills, making sure they’re fed and still has to go to school and be a normal teenager. Making most of her money from banishing “spirits” from the homes of her fellow schoolmates, Holly is shocked to discover that one of the hauntings isn’t the work of her and her best friend like normal. Other shaman have made their way to Holly’s small town and they’re meddling in dark and dangerous magic; magic Holly is going to have to fight if she wants to keep the spirits from hurting, or killing, those that exist around her.
Nicely written, Bone Dry is highly entertaining. Cady Vance sets up the first novel well and leaves a lot of potential for where Holly and her friends can go. The idea of shamans was interesting—not something I’ve really seen before, and I enjoyed how Vance wove demons, spirits and magic together to create her mythology.
Holly very much presents as a capable teenager and is very much the teen sleuth. Throughout Bone Dry, she attempts to put clues together to solve the mystery around what really happened to her mother whilst banishing the spirits that seem to be plaguing her schoolmates. Holly’s investigations make for some interesting reading as she and her best friend team up before Holly finds unexpected assistance from Nathan—the comic book slash popular guy at school who suddenly makes it clear he may like Holly as more than a friend.
I found Holly to be quite likable and I loved her relationship with Nathan. Nathan came across as very down to earth and funny and he and Holly had great chemistry. It was very sweet seeing them find their feet together and begin an endearing romance. The geekiness they both displayed was adorable at times and I liked that they seemed to complement each other—very cute!
Perfect for fans of Rachel Vincent’s Soul Screamers, Bone Dry ended before I was really ready for it to. And with the bad guy managing to effectively get away, Cady Vance left me ready for more and ready to see what’s in store for Holly next!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Bone Dry by Cady Vance is a sharp and visually entertaining novel that follows a likable heroine and weaves together intriguing elements of shamans I’ve yet to see in this fun read that will keep you easily entertained!
Bone Dry introduces readers to Holly, a sixteen year old girl who comes from a long line of shamans and whose life changed drastically when her mother was left a shell of her former self during a shaman job gone wrong. Taking care of her now mentally troubled mother, Holly is now responsible for paying the bills, making sure they’re fed and still has to go to school and be a normal teenager. Making most of her money from banishing “spirits” from the homes of her fellow schoolmates, Holly is shocked to discover that one of the hauntings isn’t the work of her and her best friend like normal. Other shaman have made their way to Holly’s small town and they’re meddling in dark and dangerous magic; magic Holly is going to have to fight if she wants to keep the spirits from hurting, or killing, those that exist around her.
Nicely written, Bone Dry is highly entertaining. Cady Vance sets up the first novel well and leaves a lot of potential for where Holly and her friends can go. The idea of shamans was interesting—not something I’ve really seen before, and I enjoyed how Vance wove demons, spirits and magic together to create her mythology.
Holly very much presents as a capable teenager and is very much the teen sleuth. Throughout Bone Dry, she attempts to put clues together to solve the mystery around what really happened to her mother whilst banishing the spirits that seem to be plaguing her schoolmates. Holly’s investigations make for some interesting reading as she and her best friend team up before Holly finds unexpected assistance from Nathan—the comic book slash popular guy at school who suddenly makes it clear he may like Holly as more than a friend.
I found Holly to be quite likable and I loved her relationship with Nathan. Nathan came across as very down to earth and funny and he and Holly had great chemistry. It was very sweet seeing them find their feet together and begin an endearing romance. The geekiness they both displayed was adorable at times and I liked that they seemed to complement each other—very cute!
Perfect for fans of Rachel Vincent’s Soul Screamers, Bone Dry ended before I was really ready for it to. And with the bad guy managing to effectively get away, Cady Vance left me ready for more and ready to see what’s in store for Holly next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2016
Surprisingly fun and smart YA paranormal fiction. I loved the heroine: Holly, a smart girl with a couple of friends and reputation for being an oddball, but who isn't a loner, miserable, completely self-doubting, or obsessed with love. She's in a bad spot because her mother has been incapacitated by an encounter or attack in the spiritual realm, so she's been doing the best she can - which admittedly, is scamming a few rich kids at school into paying her to exterminate spirits that she and her friend conjured up. Did I mention that mother and daughter are both shamans, who work to move spirits on to the spirit realm when they are stuck in the earthly one? It's a cool and unusual magical power in YA fiction, and the author provides a good, understandable magic system with rules that are obeyed.
As an adult reader, I appreciated the lack of focus on romance (I mean there is a romance, but there is no love triangle and the heroine doesn't agonize and make stupid decisions in front of her love interest, who is in fact, a nice guy and not a villain. I loved that Holly had at least one steadfast friend who stays by her side. I loved that both of them grew as characters and in maturity as they faced the dangers. The spirits themselves were actually scary, and not in a gory way but in a surprisingly plausible way.
The writing wasn't *quite* Whedon-esque, but it was snappy and fun and well-plotted. There were lessons learned. There were big bad guys and little bad guys. There were mistakes made and lessons learned. There were humorous lines, and the teenagers were, for the most part, believable. It scratched my Buffy itch. The story is aimed at younger, more innocent teens - rated PG.
I listened to this in audiobook format, and Warner Munroe did a decent job. Some of her girl voices were a bit cartoony, but overall it was enjoyably and smoothly read.
As an adult reader, I appreciated the lack of focus on romance (I mean there is a romance, but there is no love triangle and the heroine doesn't agonize and make stupid decisions in front of her love interest, who is in fact, a nice guy and not a villain. I loved that Holly had at least one steadfast friend who stays by her side. I loved that both of them grew as characters and in maturity as they faced the dangers. The spirits themselves were actually scary, and not in a gory way but in a surprisingly plausible way.
The writing wasn't *quite* Whedon-esque, but it was snappy and fun and well-plotted. There were lessons learned. There were big bad guys and little bad guys. There were mistakes made and lessons learned. There were humorous lines, and the teenagers were, for the most part, believable. It scratched my Buffy itch. The story is aimed at younger, more innocent teens - rated PG.
I listened to this in audiobook format, and Warner Munroe did a decent job. Some of her girl voices were a bit cartoony, but overall it was enjoyably and smoothly read.
December 8, 2015
I won this book way way way back during the big YA spring fling!!!
THIS BOOK IS EVERYTHING!!!! There it is. It's out.
No, but seriously.
I haven't read a book before that was about spirits and shamans, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. It was one hell of a ride but it was all kinds of amazing.
I love the story. A highschool girl banishes fake spirits to earn money, cause her mom's soul is stuck in the Borderland, and now she has to pay the bills and takes care of everything, while figuring out how to get her mom back. And then real spirits show up in people's houses and that's only the start of all the problems that are coming her way.
I LOVE the characters. Holly, what a wonderful person. She has the weight of the world on her shoulders but she's so fierce and strong. Love her. Also her friend Laura, amazing. I love the friendship between them, that's just so special. Nathan is also a really great character. What I loved about the book was that the relationship between him and Holly didn't happen so quickly. They obviously care about each other but after a few days together they don't throw around the words of undying love for each other. Thank goodness.
The whole story developed really fast, there were a lot of things happening and not many dull moments, something I really enjoyed. The last few chapters made me really nervous, cause the clock was ticking and they still had so many problems and no plans and they needed to do so much for everything to turn out okay. But I'm happy with the way it ended and I can't wait to read the second book. I feel like with the way things are set up in the first book, the second book will be really exciting and will probably also make me really nervous.
THIS BOOK IS EVERYTHING!!!! There it is. It's out.
No, but seriously.
I haven't read a book before that was about spirits and shamans, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. It was one hell of a ride but it was all kinds of amazing.
I love the story. A highschool girl banishes fake spirits to earn money, cause her mom's soul is stuck in the Borderland, and now she has to pay the bills and takes care of everything, while figuring out how to get her mom back. And then real spirits show up in people's houses and that's only the start of all the problems that are coming her way.
I LOVE the characters. Holly, what a wonderful person. She has the weight of the world on her shoulders but she's so fierce and strong. Love her. Also her friend Laura, amazing. I love the friendship between them, that's just so special. Nathan is also a really great character. What I loved about the book was that the relationship between him and Holly didn't happen so quickly. They obviously care about each other but after a few days together they don't throw around the words of undying love for each other. Thank goodness.
The whole story developed really fast, there were a lot of things happening and not many dull moments, something I really enjoyed. The last few chapters made me really nervous, cause the clock was ticking and they still had so many problems and no plans and they needed to do so much for everything to turn out okay. But I'm happy with the way it ended and I can't wait to read the second book. I feel like with the way things are set up in the first book, the second book will be really exciting and will probably also make me really nervous.
July 29, 2016
I was very excited to read a book with shamans. I was very thrilled how the book started and all the supernatural dimension to it. It kept me hooked and on my toes for most of the first part of the story. I was very happy with myself for having found this book. Loved the writers perception on the beings.
But then it slows down and stagnates, it was as if the writer didn't have any new ideas of how to show shaman powers. The shaman in the story, she doesn't grow in the book. She doesn't work on making her powers stronger nor does she even find any new powers within her. That was a huge letdown for me. She just managed to do everything in some confused way. It would have been so much more exciting and fun if she grew to be stronger and confident. Maybe find a teacher who would have shown her new paths and secrets.
But I did enjoy reading the book. I just wish it was a tad more gripping and thrilling. But definitely a fun read.
But then it slows down and stagnates, it was as if the writer didn't have any new ideas of how to show shaman powers. The shaman in the story, she doesn't grow in the book. She doesn't work on making her powers stronger nor does she even find any new powers within her. That was a huge letdown for me. She just managed to do everything in some confused way. It would have been so much more exciting and fun if she grew to be stronger and confident. Maybe find a teacher who would have shown her new paths and secrets.
But I did enjoy reading the book. I just wish it was a tad more gripping and thrilling. But definitely a fun read.
April 2, 2015
This book was great. I have not found too many book about Shamans and this book was unique because Holly is a teenager. She trying to help her mom pay the bills. While she helps her friends from school life without ghosts haunting their lives. I enjoyed the book and think you should give this book a try for sure. * I was given this book in exchange for an honest review from the Lovers of Paranormal group on Goodreads*
April 6, 2015
3.5 I really liked this book. I think the character interaction was great, the writing was fast paced while still keeping me fully clued in, and it was overall a fun read. My one issue was that I felt like I was reading a book I've read over and over. It wasn't really a new or different idea but a fun read nevertheless.
May 15, 2015
I winned this title on a swap and it was amazing I loved it...
The pace is neat and cool, the characters are good and the situations are pretty fun and interesting.
Hope to continue reading this series is amazing.
I really liked the story and Holly, Laura and Nathan made a great team, it was fun reading they're adventures.
More of my reviews here:
http://bookwormiejoss.blogspot.com/
The pace is neat and cool, the characters are good and the situations are pretty fun and interesting.
Hope to continue reading this series is amazing.
I really liked the story and Holly, Laura and Nathan made a great team, it was fun reading they're adventures.
More of my reviews here:
http://bookwormiejoss.blogspot.com/
September 6, 2015
Funny good
Well I liked this book, it was interesting and kept me reading!! I really liked the story line, you can't go wrong
Well I liked this book, it was interesting and kept me reading!! I really liked the story line, you can't go wrong
July 21, 2022
Basic story was ok. But toward the end there were mistakes and not just grammar. First they were in Nathan's car then in Holly's truck and back and forth, not consistent.
April 23, 2015
"Is our friendly, neighborhood ghostbuster in action again?"
Wow! This book was a surprise from the very first few pages! It had my attention and even had me looking in the dark corners at night. (Haaa-wimp) It was mixed in with a problem that needed to be solved, action, and secrets revealed! It was a bit dark at times with paranormal spirits and spells cast.
Holly is a 'rookie' shaman, ones who can summoning and banish spirits! She's been coning people in high school with her pal Laura, who also is a shaman. Holly's mother went on an assignment and came back cursed that puts her in a blank mind set and is eating her life away. Holly is determined to find the shaman who caused this to her mother but it leads to very dangerous territory that can risk her own life. Not only does Holly have to worry about her mom, but shaman's in town are engraving ruins in all the neighborhood houses. She is called upon with her talent to banish the spirits. Shamans are not to happy with Holly's interference and don't take it lightly.
Holly was a very likable character! She was snarky, leading heroine, and knows how to hold her own. Mixed in with humorous personality but also sneaky as "cat-woman", Holly definitely was a fun character to go on this mystery with.
"Jason Harris taught me how to fake-faint when we were kids, but that would still leave me here where things were weird. Maybe I should make a timely exit to the bathroom. And then crawl out the window." - Holly
Love interest definitely surprised me in that I kept anticipating something to happen...I though the author might throw in a wild card and had me questioning Nathan's intentions! It was not heavily focused on making a love connection the center of the story which I think was best due to Holly's predicament in the story. At times I was like wait, there's people chasing you but your daydreaming of Nathan!!!! I do think Nathan character needed more development in feelings for Holly. Being in Holly's POV, don't know much of how Nathan fell in love with her. The end was very fast in wrapping the story up and maybe a bit to quick for the reactions I was expecting from characters.
This book was very well written with a unique story and had me spooked to read at night! It was fast pace with obstacles coming in left and right for the heroine. Overall, it was a very different Young Adult paranormal read I've read so far. I don't come around to many books with the leading lady throwing around chicken bones!!!
"They live in a place called Lower World, and it's like a plane of existence right on top of ours. We're their food, and we need to stay calm. Somehow fear is like a lifeline or something. They do things to freak us out, and that's how they on us."
Wow! This book was a surprise from the very first few pages! It had my attention and even had me looking in the dark corners at night. (Haaa-wimp) It was mixed in with a problem that needed to be solved, action, and secrets revealed! It was a bit dark at times with paranormal spirits and spells cast.
Holly is a 'rookie' shaman, ones who can summoning and banish spirits! She's been coning people in high school with her pal Laura, who also is a shaman. Holly's mother went on an assignment and came back cursed that puts her in a blank mind set and is eating her life away. Holly is determined to find the shaman who caused this to her mother but it leads to very dangerous territory that can risk her own life. Not only does Holly have to worry about her mom, but shaman's in town are engraving ruins in all the neighborhood houses. She is called upon with her talent to banish the spirits. Shamans are not to happy with Holly's interference and don't take it lightly.
Holly was a very likable character! She was snarky, leading heroine, and knows how to hold her own. Mixed in with humorous personality but also sneaky as "cat-woman", Holly definitely was a fun character to go on this mystery with.
"Jason Harris taught me how to fake-faint when we were kids, but that would still leave me here where things were weird. Maybe I should make a timely exit to the bathroom. And then crawl out the window." - Holly
Love interest definitely surprised me in that I kept anticipating something to happen...I though the author might throw in a wild card and had me questioning Nathan's intentions! It was not heavily focused on making a love connection the center of the story which I think was best due to Holly's predicament in the story. At times I was like wait, there's people chasing you but your daydreaming of Nathan!!!! I do think Nathan character needed more development in feelings for Holly. Being in Holly's POV, don't know much of how Nathan fell in love with her. The end was very fast in wrapping the story up and maybe a bit to quick for the reactions I was expecting from characters.
This book was very well written with a unique story and had me spooked to read at night! It was fast pace with obstacles coming in left and right for the heroine. Overall, it was a very different Young Adult paranormal read I've read so far. I don't come around to many books with the leading lady throwing around chicken bones!!!
"They live in a place called Lower World, and it's like a plane of existence right on top of ours. We're their food, and we need to stay calm. Somehow fear is like a lifeline or something. They do things to freak us out, and that's how they on us."
May 25, 2015
4.5 stars; more of a review to follow!
Okay, so I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I was going to. I thought the premise was very fresh and unique, which was a relief. And it was executed well.
The plot itself was very fast paced. Originally I started reading this as something to do in my off periods at school, but I couldn't put it down and ended up finishing it at home. There honestly wasn't a slow moment, the characters were always rushing from one problem to the next. I thought that tied in nicely with the idea of spirits: I mean, assuming there were real life hauntings, you wouldn't just sit around and wait for it to happen. You'd be doing something about it.
However, I thought some of the crises were a tad unrealistic, even for urban fantasy (that's what I'm going to classify this as to myself). The characters were taking on much-older "shamans," who presumably had years more training. I found that you had to suspend some disbelief to go along with the idea that sixteen year old beginners were outsmarting shamans fifty plus years older. I guess that's the same with any YA book, but I just found it a little more difficult to swallow in this case.
I really enjoyed all of the characters. The main character was suitably realistic, handling herself pretty well. Usually a character makes mistakes that have me throwing the book across the room, but I never really had a problem with her because I felt her risks were justified. Her best friend was a badass as well, which I appreciated. My main complaint was that the love interest was pretty stereotypical, the cute guy who falls for our nerdy heroine. The romance never took over the story, however, because the protagonist realized (thank God) that there were more pressing issues at hand than finding a boyfriend. Finally, someone says it! She did almost go back on that a few times, but it never bothered me enough to ruin the plot. I thought it was well done.
The shamanistic magic was explained, which was good. I would have appreciated a little more- the book from the trunk? The different types of spirits that were killing people faster than others? We never find out. I believe there is going to be a sequel, or there is already, so I'm hoping it will be better explained there.
The cliffhanger wasn't bad enough that I'm in agony here. But there were several loose ends. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was fast-paced and very fun. It even had me a tiny bit creeped out once or twice. I would definitely recommend this book, and plan on reading the second one!
Okay, so I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I was going to. I thought the premise was very fresh and unique, which was a relief. And it was executed well.
The plot itself was very fast paced. Originally I started reading this as something to do in my off periods at school, but I couldn't put it down and ended up finishing it at home. There honestly wasn't a slow moment, the characters were always rushing from one problem to the next. I thought that tied in nicely with the idea of spirits: I mean, assuming there were real life hauntings, you wouldn't just sit around and wait for it to happen. You'd be doing something about it.
However, I thought some of the crises were a tad unrealistic, even for urban fantasy (that's what I'm going to classify this as to myself). The characters were taking on much-older "shamans," who presumably had years more training. I found that you had to suspend some disbelief to go along with the idea that sixteen year old beginners were outsmarting shamans fifty plus years older. I guess that's the same with any YA book, but I just found it a little more difficult to swallow in this case.
I really enjoyed all of the characters. The main character was suitably realistic, handling herself pretty well. Usually a character makes mistakes that have me throwing the book across the room, but I never really had a problem with her because I felt her risks were justified. Her best friend was a badass as well, which I appreciated. My main complaint was that the love interest was pretty stereotypical, the cute guy who falls for our nerdy heroine. The romance never took over the story, however, because the protagonist realized (thank God) that there were more pressing issues at hand than finding a boyfriend. Finally, someone says it! She did almost go back on that a few times, but it never bothered me enough to ruin the plot. I thought it was well done.
The shamanistic magic was explained, which was good. I would have appreciated a little more- the book from the trunk? The different types of spirits that were killing people faster than others? We never find out. I believe there is going to be a sequel, or there is already, so I'm hoping it will be better explained there.
The cliffhanger wasn't bad enough that I'm in agony here. But there were several loose ends. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was fast-paced and very fun. It even had me a tiny bit creeped out once or twice. I would definitely recommend this book, and plan on reading the second one!
March 28, 2015
3.5
Thank you to Cady Vance for a chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Full review can also be found on: Paein and Ms4Tune’s Book Blog
I've only read one other Shaman series and that would be The Walker Papers series by C. E. Murphy (or at least the first three books. Apparently there are now 9...) which was A LOT to live up to because I loved those books. This didn't quite make it, but it sure did it's damnedest!
Just about a third of the way in things picked up rather dramatically and I lost a whole morning finding out what happened next, because I needed to! A few times something happened that I thought would lead to a stereotypical "oh no! We're in trouble!" moment, but actually they didn't which I was SO happy about.
The story is told in first person, from Holly's point of view and to be honest she was a little annoying. There were similes or metaphors or comparisons that really didn't need to be there (possibly it's because I'm older than her that I found this annoying??) and really I'm not impressed with what she did. Oh no. I'm not talking about the cons, a girls got to eat, but the fact she ignored every single bit of information in her mothers last note about what I will call The Artefact (to save having to add spoiler warnings). I mean really, you have a camera phone yes? Use that function! I know time was short at this point, but really, you're smart! Use your brain!
Whoops, rant over.
I think my favourite character may be Holly's mum. I know we don't get to see much of her and she's also kind of an idiot, not teaching her daughter all the important stuff, but she seemed pretty amazing before and I hope we get to see more of this past her as we continue through the story. There's so much we don't yet know and hopefully we'll learn right alongside Holly.
This was an interesting novel and I'd like to see where the story goes.
June 20, 2016
A fast-paced urban fantasy teen novel with an interesting premise. The shamans and spirit world were defined and added a lot of mystery to the story. Also, I really liked Holly, the main character. She had more depth than I expected from a comic book-loving con artist.
I read the whole book in a blur in about two days. The action doesn't let up from the moment the book starts, even when she's with the boy she has a crush on, since he gets pretty involved in the main story. She also has a great friend in Laura, who I wanted to hear more about. There's got to be more to her story how she ended up being adopted by a normal human despite her shaman powers.
Despite the serious tone and action, there was time for little spots of humor here and there. I liked the comic book references in particular. It made Holly more relatable to know what she did for fun when she wasn't dealing with such major issues.
With the fast pace, some novels tend to make the romantic relationship develop too quickly, leading to some people labeling them “instalove.” This book avoids that problem because Holly already knew Nate from school and the attraction existed before the story starts. The plot finally brings them closer together to let the sparks fly and the relationship feels pretty natural for two awkward teens. It’s actually really cute the way that Nate volunteers to be her “sidekick” and finds ways to help out even though he has no shaman powers of her own.
Also, I’ve got to give a shout-out to the animal companion. Astral is her adorable kitty and he even helps out at one point. He’s not as involved as a full-blown familiar, but it’s nice to have a pet, at least.
The main plot of the book does get resolved, but it opens up new story possibilities for the sequels. It seems like Holly still has a lot to learn about being a shaman and deal with spirits. I’ll probably pick up the next book in the series to see where it goes after this.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes teen urban fantasy. It’s a solid example of the genre, with more focus on the magical side of the story than trouble at school or other teen problems.
I read the whole book in a blur in about two days. The action doesn't let up from the moment the book starts, even when she's with the boy she has a crush on, since he gets pretty involved in the main story. She also has a great friend in Laura, who I wanted to hear more about. There's got to be more to her story how she ended up being adopted by a normal human despite her shaman powers.
Despite the serious tone and action, there was time for little spots of humor here and there. I liked the comic book references in particular. It made Holly more relatable to know what she did for fun when she wasn't dealing with such major issues.
With the fast pace, some novels tend to make the romantic relationship develop too quickly, leading to some people labeling them “instalove.” This book avoids that problem because Holly already knew Nate from school and the attraction existed before the story starts. The plot finally brings them closer together to let the sparks fly and the relationship feels pretty natural for two awkward teens. It’s actually really cute the way that Nate volunteers to be her “sidekick” and finds ways to help out even though he has no shaman powers of her own.
Also, I’ve got to give a shout-out to the animal companion. Astral is her adorable kitty and he even helps out at one point. He’s not as involved as a full-blown familiar, but it’s nice to have a pet, at least.
The main plot of the book does get resolved, but it opens up new story possibilities for the sequels. It seems like Holly still has a lot to learn about being a shaman and deal with spirits. I’ll probably pick up the next book in the series to see where it goes after this.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes teen urban fantasy. It’s a solid example of the genre, with more focus on the magical side of the story than trouble at school or other teen problems.
January 30, 2017
I received this book free through LibraryThing :)
I really loved the premise of this book and was really intrigued with the Shamanism theme so when I won this copy I was really excited.
I wish I could say I thoroughly enjoyed it but there were a few aspects of this book I found difficult to connect with and enjoy. I found the story a little rushed or drawn out in the wrong places when I either wanted more information or less. I never really connected with any of the characters which made it hard to emotionally connect to the book either.
The underlying romance in the book between Holly and Nathan seemed forced and only present to be able to tick the love interest box.
The villains were intimidating and violent but then they just failed to stick with that when they just let them go. They were all talk no action and I never really felt the main character was in much danger even when she seemed to forget or ignore her new found "Intuition".
The main character, Holly, didn't want to do anything alone so drags in the two people she loves the most and literally shoves them into life/death situations over and over but it's all to save her mom so it's all rightly moralistic right?! Hmmm...
There's a presence of naïvity throughout the book and some of the situations and outcomes are just a little too far fetched for me and I'm usually a huge fan of supernatural themes.
Overall I found the book a little too predictable, hard to connect to or believe, a little repetitive in places, a few continuity errors but the author does have a nice writing style and is suited to the YA audience :)
2.5 stars from me
*This review is purely my opinion and just a reflection on my overall reaction to the book :)*
I really loved the premise of this book and was really intrigued with the Shamanism theme so when I won this copy I was really excited.
I wish I could say I thoroughly enjoyed it but there were a few aspects of this book I found difficult to connect with and enjoy. I found the story a little rushed or drawn out in the wrong places when I either wanted more information or less. I never really connected with any of the characters which made it hard to emotionally connect to the book either.
The underlying romance in the book between Holly and Nathan seemed forced and only present to be able to tick the love interest box.
The villains were intimidating and violent but then they just failed to stick with that when they just let them go. They were all talk no action and I never really felt the main character was in much danger even when she seemed to forget or ignore her new found "Intuition".
The main character, Holly, didn't want to do anything alone so drags in the two people she loves the most and literally shoves them into life/death situations over and over but it's all to save her mom so it's all rightly moralistic right?! Hmmm...
There's a presence of naïvity throughout the book and some of the situations and outcomes are just a little too far fetched for me and I'm usually a huge fan of supernatural themes.
Overall I found the book a little too predictable, hard to connect to or believe, a little repetitive in places, a few continuity errors but the author does have a nice writing style and is suited to the YA audience :)
2.5 stars from me
*This review is purely my opinion and just a reflection on my overall reaction to the book :)*
April 5, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
Bone Dry was a tad different from other paranormal novels I've read. I loved the main character being a shaman. The dark spirits, or demons, were downright creepy- as were the other shaman baddies. I think what makes this book a good read is the interaction between the characters. I really enjoyed the different relationships and the witty banter.
Holly was a rather impressive protag. After her mother's soul got lost in the spirit realm, she did whatever she could to pay the bills and keep them afloat. She was an overall good person, even when performing grifts with her best friend, Laura. She was real and down-to-earth. Though she was powerful, she was also respectful of the spirit world. It just made for a good all-around character. I have to say that romantic interest Nathan was my favorite character. What an amazing guy! The romance was rather sweet- Holly and Nathan made a great couple.
Ms. Vance does an amazing job explaining the world she created. I never felt lost because details were revealed in a timely manner. As I stated earlier I really liked the characters and how they interacted with each other. While I enjoyed the plot, the whole story moved a tad slower than I liked- but if you know me, I'm big fan of a fast pace. If you like a slower build, then this is a great book for you.
The ending was well done- the current story line wrapped up for the most part, while the overlying plot was left open for another book. If you like deeply detailed, slow-build paranormal, then you'll definitely want to check out Bone Dry. BTW- after reading the novel, the title totally makes sense in that eerie *shiver* way.
Bone Dry was a tad different from other paranormal novels I've read. I loved the main character being a shaman. The dark spirits, or demons, were downright creepy- as were the other shaman baddies. I think what makes this book a good read is the interaction between the characters. I really enjoyed the different relationships and the witty banter.
Holly was a rather impressive protag. After her mother's soul got lost in the spirit realm, she did whatever she could to pay the bills and keep them afloat. She was an overall good person, even when performing grifts with her best friend, Laura. She was real and down-to-earth. Though she was powerful, she was also respectful of the spirit world. It just made for a good all-around character. I have to say that romantic interest Nathan was my favorite character. What an amazing guy! The romance was rather sweet- Holly and Nathan made a great couple.
Ms. Vance does an amazing job explaining the world she created. I never felt lost because details were revealed in a timely manner. As I stated earlier I really liked the characters and how they interacted with each other. While I enjoyed the plot, the whole story moved a tad slower than I liked- but if you know me, I'm big fan of a fast pace. If you like a slower build, then this is a great book for you.
The ending was well done- the current story line wrapped up for the most part, while the overlying plot was left open for another book. If you like deeply detailed, slow-build paranormal, then you'll definitely want to check out Bone Dry. BTW- after reading the novel, the title totally makes sense in that eerie *shiver* way.
April 16, 2015
Bone Dry (Soul Shamans #1)
I received a free copy, through LoP on Goodreads, in exchange for a review.
Choices are hard to make, especially when you're sixteen, taking care of a mother who is half in this world and half in the spirit world, going to school and trying to pay all of the bills. Holly thinks of a scheme to earn some money - banishing ghost for her classmates, with the help of her best friend, both shamans. But, after one case, she starts to realize that there really are bad spirits haunting some of them, sucking the life out of their targets. Without the help and full understanding of her powers, she must figure out a way to free her mother from the Lower World, before she disappears forever, then who is behind these other attacks and how to stop all of it.
'Once I'd drawn more blood, I let each bone get a drop from my skin. Then. I began my low mumbling song, fingers curled around a necklace of deep blue beads Mom had picked up in Alaska. This spell was the only one that didn't need a rune, a candle or any other supplies. Mom said bone magic was the strongest kind and created something so powerful it didn't need any rituals. It only needed bones, blood and the ability to ignore how disgustingly creepy it was.'
And yet another 5 star book! This book had me from the very first few sentences. Great characters, plot and the perfect amount of tension. This should turn out to be a great series!
I received a free copy, through LoP on Goodreads, in exchange for a review.
Choices are hard to make, especially when you're sixteen, taking care of a mother who is half in this world and half in the spirit world, going to school and trying to pay all of the bills. Holly thinks of a scheme to earn some money - banishing ghost for her classmates, with the help of her best friend, both shamans. But, after one case, she starts to realize that there really are bad spirits haunting some of them, sucking the life out of their targets. Without the help and full understanding of her powers, she must figure out a way to free her mother from the Lower World, before she disappears forever, then who is behind these other attacks and how to stop all of it.
'Once I'd drawn more blood, I let each bone get a drop from my skin. Then. I began my low mumbling song, fingers curled around a necklace of deep blue beads Mom had picked up in Alaska. This spell was the only one that didn't need a rune, a candle or any other supplies. Mom said bone magic was the strongest kind and created something so powerful it didn't need any rituals. It only needed bones, blood and the ability to ignore how disgustingly creepy it was.'
And yet another 5 star book! This book had me from the very first few sentences. Great characters, plot and the perfect amount of tension. This should turn out to be a great series!
March 9, 2015
Originally posted on BookWorm.
Holly's story was one that interested me from the get-go. Vance tells the story beautifully, and - dare I say it? - with heaps of originality and humour. Here is a girl who, yes, is attracted to a hot guy (and who can blame her? Nathan is hot and nerdy; what's not to love?), and who -literally - fainted after one of her first encounters with him. But the romance isn't central to the plot, there isn't even the hint of a love triangle, and Nathan's hotness doesn't distract Holly from doing what needs to be done.
Oh, for more heroines like Holly Bennett.
Plus, the plot is good, fast-paced and interesting. The baddies are seriously creep-tastic (both the human ones and the supernatural ones), and there's the underlying arc of Holly's mother that sort of wraps the whole novel together, running beneath every other, smaller arc, and keeping things neat.
The one issue I had with Bone Dry, was that some characters (mostly the secondary characters, ie Laura and the other people from school) all sort of blurred together for me after a while, and I would have liked to get to know them a little better. Laura got a little more of fleshing out, but she was a fab character, and I hope to see more of her in the future!
Holly's story was one that interested me from the get-go. Vance tells the story beautifully, and - dare I say it? - with heaps of originality and humour. Here is a girl who, yes, is attracted to a hot guy (and who can blame her? Nathan is hot and nerdy; what's not to love?), and who -literally - fainted after one of her first encounters with him. But the romance isn't central to the plot, there isn't even the hint of a love triangle, and Nathan's hotness doesn't distract Holly from doing what needs to be done.
Oh, for more heroines like Holly Bennett.
Plus, the plot is good, fast-paced and interesting. The baddies are seriously creep-tastic (both the human ones and the supernatural ones), and there's the underlying arc of Holly's mother that sort of wraps the whole novel together, running beneath every other, smaller arc, and keeping things neat.
The one issue I had with Bone Dry, was that some characters (mostly the secondary characters, ie Laura and the other people from school) all sort of blurred together for me after a while, and I would have liked to get to know them a little better. Laura got a little more of fleshing out, but she was a fab character, and I hope to see more of her in the future!
July 10, 2015
Note: I won this book on a firstreads giveaway but it arrived very late and came unsigned, despite the giveaway advertising it as signed.
Although far from being original, I still enjoyed this book; I have a soft spot for magic and the paranormal. It had a good pace and in interesting story. The only thing is that I'm tired of reading the same cliché romance lines in every YA novel. Every typical YA novel has something along the lines of:
"I can't believe [boy's name] would be interested in me"
"I shivered, but it had nothing to do with the cold" or "despite the heat, I shivered"
and let's not forget the infamous "lopsided grin". What even is that? If I wanted to read a romance, I would read a romance. I would have preferred the story if it was just Laura and Holly. Is it just me?
Anyway, even though this ticked me off, the romance thankfully wasn't too overbearing and I was able to skim over those parts quickly. It had the right amount of mystery, magic, and a bit of gore. I would give it 3.5/5.
Although far from being original, I still enjoyed this book; I have a soft spot for magic and the paranormal. It had a good pace and in interesting story. The only thing is that I'm tired of reading the same cliché romance lines in every YA novel. Every typical YA novel has something along the lines of:
"I can't believe [boy's name] would be interested in me"
"I shivered, but it had nothing to do with the cold" or "despite the heat, I shivered"
and let's not forget the infamous "lopsided grin". What even is that? If I wanted to read a romance, I would read a romance. I would have preferred the story if it was just Laura and Holly. Is it just me?
Anyway, even though this ticked me off, the romance thankfully wasn't too overbearing and I was able to skim over those parts quickly. It had the right amount of mystery, magic, and a bit of gore. I would give it 3.5/5.
June 26, 2015
This review is for the audiobook of Bone Dry, and I gave it 3 stars because the narrators voices for some of the girls was like listening to forest animals try to speak, and much of the interaction between characters was very cliche. I enjoyed the story, and I will read the next book. I won't listen if it's the same narrator though, which sucks, because I prefer audiobooks.
As for the story, it's not just a YA book, it's a VERY YA book. I think 13 and 14 year old kids are the perfect audience. Butterflies in the stomach, liking the hot guy that could never like her back, others can see it, but she can't.. you get the idea.
Still, the shaman part of the story was interesting. Hopefully that's where book 2 will go into more background, and explain what shamanism is in this world, and how it's different from other magic.
As for the story, it's not just a YA book, it's a VERY YA book. I think 13 and 14 year old kids are the perfect audience. Butterflies in the stomach, liking the hot guy that could never like her back, others can see it, but she can't.. you get the idea.
Still, the shaman part of the story was interesting. Hopefully that's where book 2 will go into more background, and explain what shamanism is in this world, and how it's different from other magic.
June 1, 2015
I received a copy of this book free in exchange for an honest review.
Holly and her Mother are both Shaman. Her Mother is now between worlds after having been cursed by another Shaman. She doesn't have much time left. She never wanted to teach Holly all the spells and things because it is to dangerous, but Holly is now her only hope. People meanwhile are reporting spirits in their houses and are asking Holly the(Queen of weird)for help. Can she help and save everyone? You'll have to read the book to find out. I don't give spoilers. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the next book.
Holly and her Mother are both Shaman. Her Mother is now between worlds after having been cursed by another Shaman. She doesn't have much time left. She never wanted to teach Holly all the spells and things because it is to dangerous, but Holly is now her only hope. People meanwhile are reporting spirits in their houses and are asking Holly the(Queen of weird)for help. Can she help and save everyone? You'll have to read the book to find out. I don't give spoilers. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the next book.
January 29, 2015
Bone Dry gripped me from the first page and didn't let me go! I just had to know the identity of the villain and the outcome of Holly's difficult choice. The world of shamans and spirits was fascinating, offering a fresh take for the paranormal genre. The writing sings off the page with gorgeous prose I had to stop and admire, and the characters pop as well as fully realized people I cared deeply about. I absolutely adored the swoony romance between Holly and Nathan. A sexy comic book nerd? Yes, please! I can't wait to read book two!
March 17, 2015
When I read the synopsis I thought, wow that sounds interesting and I wasn't wrong.
I really enjoyed this book, it had a good pace, action, humor and romance. Everything I enjoy in a good book.
I really liked Holly, she is smart, witty, strong and doesn't back down, on top she loves comic books. Sometimes I felt a little sad for her, of what all she has to endure and go through with her mom. But she is feisty.
You can find my full review here:
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/bone...
I really enjoyed this book, it had a good pace, action, humor and romance. Everything I enjoy in a good book.
I really liked Holly, she is smart, witty, strong and doesn't back down, on top she loves comic books. Sometimes I felt a little sad for her, of what all she has to endure and go through with her mom. But she is feisty.
You can find my full review here:
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/bone...
April 10, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal). Holly is a shaman. Her mother is a shaman. Her mother was cursed by another shaman and is now between worlds with not much time left. She never wanted to teach her daughter all the spells and stuff from the shaman world because it is too dangerous, but now Holly is her only hope. Meanwhile, people are reporting spirits in their houses and they are asking Holly (The Queen of Weird) for help. Can she save everyone? Read it and find out! I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one.
January 2, 2016
Bone Dry : A Soul Shamans Novel # 1
Shamans are born Shamans This is the story of one such girl and how she learns the crafts from other Shamans , one being her mother. Holly must remember all she has been taught and try to save her teacher ( mother) from evil Shamans who are attempting to take over the whole Shaman domain by killing her mother. She has to do this and try to keep her friends and town people from death at the s as me time. Interesting and entertaining it is something young adults will really enjoy. I RECOMMEND.
Enjoy !
Shamans are born Shamans This is the story of one such girl and how she learns the crafts from other Shamans , one being her mother. Holly must remember all she has been taught and try to save her teacher ( mother) from evil Shamans who are attempting to take over the whole Shaman domain by killing her mother. She has to do this and try to keep her friends and town people from death at the s as me time. Interesting and entertaining it is something young adults will really enjoy. I RECOMMEND.
Enjoy !
July 15, 2016
Bone Dry is such a surprisingly delightful read! I thought I'd grown out of my obsession with young adult, especially those books set in the real world with characters attending high school. But this book proved me wrong.
With shades of Veronica Mars mixed with an intriguing and unique magic system, Bone Dry sucked me in and kept me flipping pages faster and faster. How could I not want to read about a heroine trying to save her mother...while conning high school friends to pay the bills? Time to download book two!
With shades of Veronica Mars mixed with an intriguing and unique magic system, Bone Dry sucked me in and kept me flipping pages faster and faster. How could I not want to read about a heroine trying to save her mother...while conning high school friends to pay the bills? Time to download book two!
February 5, 2015
I was lucky enough to read an early copy of Bone Dry. The world is well-imagined and has continued to stick with me. From the knitting needles, to Holly, to the shaman rituals, it's a must-read for lovers of paranormal and urban fantasy. I recommend this for lovers of Kendare Blake's Anna Dressed in Blood and also for lovers of heart-pounding chase scenes. Side note: The last line is still one I can quote.
June 12, 2015
The only time I've ever encountered shamans in novels before were if the plot dealt with Native Americans or hiking guides from Nepal. The premise behind this version of shamans was great! Very original and interesting. I wasn't really feeling the romance with Nathan but that might have been because it seemed all based on looks, at least from the protagonist's pov. I'm definitely going to check out the next volumes though to see how Holly grows into her powers.
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