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The Dark of Night #1
Chasing Daybreak
Isabel Stone wanted a normal life. But when the unexpected death of her father leaves her at the helm of the family business, things quickly go from weird to worse. Vampires are on the loose and out of the coffin, and only Isabel can walk the fine line between the world of the living and the world of the undead.
Torn between letting go of her past and embracing her future, Isabel will have to decide who she can trust, and be willing to use all the weapons at her disposal, to get to the bottom of a terrifying string of deaths that lead right to her doorstep—before she becomes the next victim. In a city where nothing is what it seems, ending up the target of a deranged killer might actually be the high point of her week. Because in this town, the things that go bump in the night… just might kill you.
Torn between letting go of her past and embracing her future, Isabel will have to decide who she can trust, and be willing to use all the weapons at her disposal, to get to the bottom of a terrifying string of deaths that lead right to her doorstep—before she becomes the next victim. In a city where nothing is what it seems, ending up the target of a deranged killer might actually be the high point of her week. Because in this town, the things that go bump in the night… just might kill you.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2015
140 people are currently reading
1031 people want to read
About the author
Sherry D. Ficklin
44 books669 followersSherry is the author of over a dozen novels for teens and young adults including the best selling Stolen Empire series. She can often be found browsing her local bookstore with a large white hot chocolate in one hand and a towering stack of books in the other. That is, unless she's on deadline at which time she, like the Loch Ness monster, is only seen in blurry photographs.
Sherry also writes contemporary romance under the pen name SJ Noble. You can find her at her official website, www.sherryficklin.com, or stalk her on her Facebook page www.facebook.com/sherry.ficklin.
Sherry also writes contemporary romance under the pen name SJ Noble. You can find her at her official website, www.sherryficklin.com, or stalk her on her Facebook page www.facebook.com/sherry.ficklin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
February 27, 2016
https://celebrityreaders.wordpress.co...
This book was part of a read along in our blogging group, I’m a little behind. (I’m house hunting, gimme a break) This is a YA paranormal with a hint of romance. It’s perm-free, I think. I really enjoyed Isabel’s sarcastic, snarky verbal sparing she had going on. And she didn’t discriminate, she made them to EVERYONE she met. This author kept it consistent with her MC.
What was really cool was the chemistry she had with Shane and Xavier and how they were opposites to each other. Shane is someone who’s been there for her, they are very close but can’t be more than friends and Xavier is a friend who wants to be more than friends but she is hesitant. It had a really nice compare and contrast.
The back story of Shane and Isabel relationship was really heartbreaking. They work together, he’s a vampire and she’s a human, they can’t grow old together, they can’t have kids together. So shes trying to move on but its hard when she sees him on a daily basis. I could feel it; how do you resolve that relationship when it stares you in the face everyday, that stood out for me.
There were many parallels in the relationship between her and Shane and Shane and the conclave, it was very well written. I kinda wanted to see what was going on with Tyger, Heather and Duke. I wanted more of those side stories. And her family? They were real. Not all hugsy wugsy, but talk shit to your face but help you bury the body when they need you real. Moms is quite the asshole. All judgy judgerson with her kids. Hello pot, the kettle is calling, they want the color black back.
Read it if you like good books.
Favorite quotes:
Just walking through the chapel’s Gothic double doors gave me the creeps. Or maybe it was the fresco on the ceiling that depicted a dozen winged angels holding down a vampire and tearing off its head that made my stomach turn.
A quick search confirmed that the counsel had ties inside the law firm, so many in fact, that I was beginning to believe the entire firm was a front for counsel activities. I always believed that lawyers were blood sucking demons. Now I had proof.
We stopped by the tailor first, you know, just in case Shane was staked or something and the place closed before we could get out of the hospital. Priorities.
This book was part of a read along in our blogging group, I’m a little behind. (I’m house hunting, gimme a break) This is a YA paranormal with a hint of romance. It’s perm-free, I think. I really enjoyed Isabel’s sarcastic, snarky verbal sparing she had going on. And she didn’t discriminate, she made them to EVERYONE she met. This author kept it consistent with her MC.
What was really cool was the chemistry she had with Shane and Xavier and how they were opposites to each other. Shane is someone who’s been there for her, they are very close but can’t be more than friends and Xavier is a friend who wants to be more than friends but she is hesitant. It had a really nice compare and contrast.
The back story of Shane and Isabel relationship was really heartbreaking. They work together, he’s a vampire and she’s a human, they can’t grow old together, they can’t have kids together. So shes trying to move on but its hard when she sees him on a daily basis. I could feel it; how do you resolve that relationship when it stares you in the face everyday, that stood out for me.
There were many parallels in the relationship between her and Shane and Shane and the conclave, it was very well written. I kinda wanted to see what was going on with Tyger, Heather and Duke. I wanted more of those side stories. And her family? They were real. Not all hugsy wugsy, but talk shit to your face but help you bury the body when they need you real. Moms is quite the asshole. All judgy judgerson with her kids. Hello pot, the kettle is calling, they want the color black back.
Read it if you like good books.
Favorite quotes:
Just walking through the chapel’s Gothic double doors gave me the creeps. Or maybe it was the fresco on the ceiling that depicted a dozen winged angels holding down a vampire and tearing off its head that made my stomach turn.
A quick search confirmed that the counsel had ties inside the law firm, so many in fact, that I was beginning to believe the entire firm was a front for counsel activities. I always believed that lawyers were blood sucking demons. Now I had proof.
We stopped by the tailor first, you know, just in case Shane was staked or something and the place closed before we could get out of the hospital. Priorities.
July 3, 2015
An addictive page-turner from one of my new favourite authors. Isabel is just your typical Private Investigator... who was stood up at the altar as her ex-fiancé was turned into a vampire and lives with said ex-fiancé in her attic.
Isabel is given a case that soon appears to be wrapped up in a missing prostitute, many weres, a community of vampires, a religious colt with too much interest in the case and more dead bodies every chapter. Following the bread crumbs not only leads Isabel closer to her ex-fiancé's new life, but also to a few people who don't want her getting any closer to the local vamps.
Whenever an author creates a world in which vampires are common logic, I know it is a must-read. However, when you pair that with a kick-ass female lead I pretty much couldn't put the book down. Especially when this female lead was sarcastic, witty and could still bring to the table all of the emotions. Can't wait for the next book in the series to find out how the characters and plot continue. Happy reading everyone!!! :)
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for a honest review.**
Isabel is given a case that soon appears to be wrapped up in a missing prostitute, many weres, a community of vampires, a religious colt with too much interest in the case and more dead bodies every chapter. Following the bread crumbs not only leads Isabel closer to her ex-fiancé's new life, but also to a few people who don't want her getting any closer to the local vamps.
Whenever an author creates a world in which vampires are common logic, I know it is a must-read. However, when you pair that with a kick-ass female lead I pretty much couldn't put the book down. Especially when this female lead was sarcastic, witty and could still bring to the table all of the emotions. Can't wait for the next book in the series to find out how the characters and plot continue. Happy reading everyone!!! :)
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for a honest review.**
May 9, 2015
Free on Kindle Unlimited
There was nothing new about this book. PI, police detectives, vampires, werewolves, shifters and romance. Sexy vampires, sexy werewolves, mostly sexy everybody. Well, I said mostly.
The novel was well done and well written, and if you like the many other books out there like this, then you'll like this one too.
There was nothing new about this book. PI, police detectives, vampires, werewolves, shifters and romance. Sexy vampires, sexy werewolves, mostly sexy everybody. Well, I said mostly.
The novel was well done and well written, and if you like the many other books out there like this, then you'll like this one too.
July 10, 2015
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.0
*Source* Amazon Freebie
*My Thoughts*
Chasing Daybreak, by Ranae Glass, is the first book in what appears to be FOUR books in a series called the Dark of Night. The story features 22-year old Isabel Stone who has is a human protagonist, and private investigator who gave up being a teacher to take over her fathers business. She's even been called the "midget bounty hunter" because of her petite stature. Isabel, who apparently has no supernatural abilities, takes on normal and supernatural cases to help support her family.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews 07/10/2015*
http://www.gizmosreviews.blogspot.com...
Published March 24th 2015 by Crimson Tree Publishing
*Rating* 3.0
*Source* Amazon Freebie
*My Thoughts*
Chasing Daybreak, by Ranae Glass, is the first book in what appears to be FOUR books in a series called the Dark of Night. The story features 22-year old Isabel Stone who has is a human protagonist, and private investigator who gave up being a teacher to take over her fathers business. She's even been called the "midget bounty hunter" because of her petite stature. Isabel, who apparently has no supernatural abilities, takes on normal and supernatural cases to help support her family.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews 07/10/2015*
http://www.gizmosreviews.blogspot.com...
Published March 24th 2015 by Crimson Tree Publishing
September 12, 2014
WOW!! As an avid vampire reader I am always looking for the next series to grab my attention and any time you have vampires "Out Of The Coffin" I am definitely on board to see what's going on.
Chasing Daybreak is the first in the new Dark Of Night series and the sooner this author sits down and writes the rest of them the happier I will be.
Filled with amazing characters, consistent vampire lore (yes this is important), and a brilliant plot, this book had me hooked from beginning to end.
Vampires, action, and a seriously kick ass heroine makes this a totally addicting page turner. One of my new favorite series! V""V
Chasing Daybreak is the first in the new Dark Of Night series and the sooner this author sits down and writes the rest of them the happier I will be.
Filled with amazing characters, consistent vampire lore (yes this is important), and a brilliant plot, this book had me hooked from beginning to end.
Vampires, action, and a seriously kick ass heroine makes this a totally addicting page turner. One of my new favorite series! V""V
March 25, 2015
Loved it
I always enjoy a fast paced story with r
a kick butt heroine. It kept you guessing and the hero needed rescuing and she was up for the job
I always enjoy a fast paced story with r
a kick butt heroine. It kept you guessing and the hero needed rescuing and she was up for the job
January 7, 2015
My Rating - 3 1/2 Stars
I received a digital copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review
Isabel has taken over her father’s PI business after his death, giving up her dream of being a teacher. Now she kinda supports the family with her meager earnings, while trying to keep from being murdered during a case.
Did I mention her ex-fiancé, Shane, is now her vampire business partner that lives in her attic? Yup.
Isabel takes a new case about a missing suburban mom that the police were never able to solve. It takes her deeper in into the world of vampires and werewolves, something she’d been kind of avoiding since Shane was changed against his will the night before their wedding.
Mixed in with the danger of the new case, Isabel also has to deal with someone leaving dead bodies on her front porch like presents, and the ex-fiancé brining his undead girlfriend around.
This book was short and action packed. It was kind of like if Veronica Mars was placed in the True Blood universe, both of which I very much enjoyed. Isabel was smart, witty and a bit of a badass. She doesn’t let people intimidate her. She also has a friend that is in a motorcycle gang, which was a little too close to VMars but whatever.
I felt like Shane was a jerk. No, he didn’t ask to become a vampire and leave Isabel at the altar, but he flaunts his new girlfriend in front of Isabel and that really irritates me. It’s clear he still has some kind of feelings for Isabel and I know he needs to try and embrace the vamp life but his new girlfriend is terrible and I hate her. Which makes me kind of hate Shane.
I was digging Xavier (who is like of like Erik from True Blood) and his not so subtle ways of “wooing” Isabel. I hope he’s featured more in the next books.
I kind of felt the story was a little rushed and the ending wrapped up a little too quickly but there was never a dull moment in the book. Also, I’d like a little more information about Isabel’s sister Heather that comes back after taking off at 16.
I enjoyed the book overall, it kept me interested and I’m a sucker for badass female characters and vampires. I recommend!
I received a digital copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review
Isabel has taken over her father’s PI business after his death, giving up her dream of being a teacher. Now she kinda supports the family with her meager earnings, while trying to keep from being murdered during a case.
Did I mention her ex-fiancé, Shane, is now her vampire business partner that lives in her attic? Yup.
Isabel takes a new case about a missing suburban mom that the police were never able to solve. It takes her deeper in into the world of vampires and werewolves, something she’d been kind of avoiding since Shane was changed against his will the night before their wedding.
Mixed in with the danger of the new case, Isabel also has to deal with someone leaving dead bodies on her front porch like presents, and the ex-fiancé brining his undead girlfriend around.
This book was short and action packed. It was kind of like if Veronica Mars was placed in the True Blood universe, both of which I very much enjoyed. Isabel was smart, witty and a bit of a badass. She doesn’t let people intimidate her. She also has a friend that is in a motorcycle gang, which was a little too close to VMars but whatever.
I felt like Shane was a jerk. No, he didn’t ask to become a vampire and leave Isabel at the altar, but he flaunts his new girlfriend in front of Isabel and that really irritates me. It’s clear he still has some kind of feelings for Isabel and I know he needs to try and embrace the vamp life but his new girlfriend is terrible and I hate her. Which makes me kind of hate Shane.
I was digging Xavier (who is like of like Erik from True Blood) and his not so subtle ways of “wooing” Isabel. I hope he’s featured more in the next books.
I kind of felt the story was a little rushed and the ending wrapped up a little too quickly but there was never a dull moment in the book. Also, I’d like a little more information about Isabel’s sister Heather that comes back after taking off at 16.
I enjoyed the book overall, it kept me interested and I’m a sucker for badass female characters and vampires. I recommend!
March 27, 2015
First off, I am NOT a vampire book fan. I just don't read them-I think they're predictable. I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review so I wasn't out anything by reading it.
This book hooked me on the first page! It's not your average, predictable vampire book if it starts off with a girl locked in a burning building with an unconscious vampire and she's trying to save them both! Isabel is a tough, sassy private investigator whose partner is one of the Undead. Who would've thought THAT would be a story worth reading? Well, it is. From Isabel and Shane to Phoebe and Reggie, I felt like I knew the characters. The story lines are believable-even familiar sometimes. There's a little romance, a little family dysfunction, a great mystery and a lot of action. There's even a little humanity shown where you wouldn't expect it. The end ties this story up, but leaves it open for a sequel. When I finished this book, I found myself missing Isabel and Shane a little! I never thought I'd enjoy a vampire book this much!
This book hooked me on the first page! It's not your average, predictable vampire book if it starts off with a girl locked in a burning building with an unconscious vampire and she's trying to save them both! Isabel is a tough, sassy private investigator whose partner is one of the Undead. Who would've thought THAT would be a story worth reading? Well, it is. From Isabel and Shane to Phoebe and Reggie, I felt like I knew the characters. The story lines are believable-even familiar sometimes. There's a little romance, a little family dysfunction, a great mystery and a lot of action. There's even a little humanity shown where you wouldn't expect it. The end ties this story up, but leaves it open for a sequel. When I finished this book, I found myself missing Isabel and Shane a little! I never thought I'd enjoy a vampire book this much!
May 1, 2015
Holy crap... I have no idea how I'm supposed to put into words what I just read. I did NOT expect that book.
I started it... and I literally had to fight myself to put it down so I could focus on real life things. (WHICH WAS HORRIBLE!)
I absolutely LOVED Isabel. She was the perfect heroine for this story. It is rare that I find myself attached to a main character, I normally find myself quite fond of minor background people. But no, she is freaking fantastic.
This story had a perfect mix of hilarity, feels, and all around epicness.
There was even a part where I felt myself tearing up. Freaking feels... *kicks rocks*
Anyway, HIGHLY recommend this book. I cannot WAIT to start book 2.
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/c...
I started it... and I literally had to fight myself to put it down so I could focus on real life things. (WHICH WAS HORRIBLE!)
I absolutely LOVED Isabel. She was the perfect heroine for this story. It is rare that I find myself attached to a main character, I normally find myself quite fond of minor background people. But no, she is freaking fantastic.
This story had a perfect mix of hilarity, feels, and all around epicness.
There was even a part where I felt myself tearing up. Freaking feels... *kicks rocks*
Anyway, HIGHLY recommend this book. I cannot WAIT to start book 2.
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/c...
December 29, 2017
I feel like lately I have been reading a lot of rubbish that I have bought for free or a couple of pounds from bookbub. This book was free from bookbub but was also amazing!
Isabel Stone is a reluctant private investigator, forced to follow in her father’s footsteps after his death. She lives in her father’s old office, with her vampire ex-fiancé. I loved sassy, wisecracking Isobel, who was charming and competent at times, but naïve and gun-ho in others. The world building in this book was just right with good backstories. The other characters were also well drawn and the dialogue never felt forced. My only disappointment was to discover that although 4 books are listed for this series, currently only 2 books are available.
Isabel Stone is a reluctant private investigator, forced to follow in her father’s footsteps after his death. She lives in her father’s old office, with her vampire ex-fiancé. I loved sassy, wisecracking Isobel, who was charming and competent at times, but naïve and gun-ho in others. The world building in this book was just right with good backstories. The other characters were also well drawn and the dialogue never felt forced. My only disappointment was to discover that although 4 books are listed for this series, currently only 2 books are available.
March 1, 2016
Rating: 3.5
https://versusthewriter.wordpress.com...
WARNING: CONTAINS SPOILER
To be honest, I probably would have ended up DNFing this book if this wasn’t a book club pick. The story started with something that got me feeling lost and the chapters that follow didn’t really caught my attention that much. But despite all that I’m glad that I finished this book. If you ask why, I’d say Xavier.
For a novel that involves vampire and probably other paranormal creature (it’s hinting that there’s more than just vampire in the future), I feel like this novel was a little bit slow and didn’t really became interesting until it got to the middle. To be fair, no vampire novel has really caught my interest for more than a year now so it’s probably all me and got nothing to do with the author’s writing and all that.
It also didn’t help that I found Shane to be an ass hat. Pity, because we share the same name. But with all the way he was acting, I couldn’t sympathize with him at all. I like Isabel though and her sisters even though they seem to be on different ends of the spectrum. And I think it’s one of Isabel’s sister that asked why Shane and Isabel were not together and she said it’s because of the difference that they came upon. Then her sister said that if she really loved him none of that would matter (not in that exact words but something to that effect) and I was like, Shane doesn’t even bother to ponder those same thing so yeah, I don’t think Isabel was to be blamed if she felt the way she did. Shane didn’t even show much effort to working on it.
However, I think that things took a hundred eighty degrees turn when Xavier entered the picture. He’s this other vampire who was digging Isabel. And I was like, how come he doesn’t care if they were different? Sure you can argue that maybe because he doesn’t really felt anything deep but still, his actions just added more to my dislike on Shane.
I may not like how this book started but I think that the story got better half way to the end and at the same time the author’s writing did too. You could probably guess that my favorite character thus far was Xavier, and if there’s somebody who will convince me to read the next part of this book, it will definitely be him and that little girl in the end.
https://versusthewriter.wordpress.com...
WARNING: CONTAINS SPOILER
To be honest, I probably would have ended up DNFing this book if this wasn’t a book club pick. The story started with something that got me feeling lost and the chapters that follow didn’t really caught my attention that much. But despite all that I’m glad that I finished this book. If you ask why, I’d say Xavier.
For a novel that involves vampire and probably other paranormal creature (it’s hinting that there’s more than just vampire in the future), I feel like this novel was a little bit slow and didn’t really became interesting until it got to the middle. To be fair, no vampire novel has really caught my interest for more than a year now so it’s probably all me and got nothing to do with the author’s writing and all that.
It also didn’t help that I found Shane to be an ass hat. Pity, because we share the same name. But with all the way he was acting, I couldn’t sympathize with him at all. I like Isabel though and her sisters even though they seem to be on different ends of the spectrum. And I think it’s one of Isabel’s sister that asked why Shane and Isabel were not together and she said it’s because of the difference that they came upon. Then her sister said that if she really loved him none of that would matter (not in that exact words but something to that effect) and I was like, Shane doesn’t even bother to ponder those same thing so yeah, I don’t think Isabel was to be blamed if she felt the way she did. Shane didn’t even show much effort to working on it.
However, I think that things took a hundred eighty degrees turn when Xavier entered the picture. He’s this other vampire who was digging Isabel. And I was like, how come he doesn’t care if they were different? Sure you can argue that maybe because he doesn’t really felt anything deep but still, his actions just added more to my dislike on Shane.
I may not like how this book started but I think that the story got better half way to the end and at the same time the author’s writing did too. You could probably guess that my favorite character thus far was Xavier, and if there’s somebody who will convince me to read the next part of this book, it will definitely be him and that little girl in the end.
September 18, 2015
It is always fun to stumbled upon a new series that has the potential to become a favorite. "Chasing Daybreak" has two characteristics I really love, a kickass herione and a detective/mystery/ crime fighting angle. Isabel Stone is the eldest daughter in her family and when he private investigator father dies, she has to leave college to take over the business. She has given up her dream of going back to school to become a teacher and marry the man she loves. You see, her fiancee, Shane was attacked and turned by a vampire on the eve of their wedding leaving her stranded down the aisle. Now, Shane works with her in the P.I. business and she gives money monthly to her mother to pay for her younger sister's expenses at UCLA.
Isabel is called on a case for a man who wants her to investigate where his 32 year daughter has vanished to. It has been six months and the police have labeled it a cold case. However, when Isabel began this quest she has no idea that she is about to be embroiled into the world of prostitution, religious zealots and vampire politics. If that is not enough, she also has to come to grips with the fact that Shane has a girlfriend and seems to be moving on with his life. Ouch! that gotta hurt.
I will admit that I was taken a little surprised by this book. I wasn't expected to enjoy it so much. That is always a nice surpise. Isabel's character is spunky, full of spit and fire and has the snarkiness I love. Additionally, I reallly enjoyed her relationships with her sister and mother. There is a hint of a romance brewing with one of the other characters (whom I will not name); so, I cannot wait to read the next book and see where this is headed.
If the premise for this book and series sounds like something you would enjoy, you will be interested in knowing that this book is being offered for free on Amazon.com. I'm telling you it is well worth the read. So, check it out while you can.
Isabel is called on a case for a man who wants her to investigate where his 32 year daughter has vanished to. It has been six months and the police have labeled it a cold case. However, when Isabel began this quest she has no idea that she is about to be embroiled into the world of prostitution, religious zealots and vampire politics. If that is not enough, she also has to come to grips with the fact that Shane has a girlfriend and seems to be moving on with his life. Ouch! that gotta hurt.
I will admit that I was taken a little surprised by this book. I wasn't expected to enjoy it so much. That is always a nice surpise. Isabel's character is spunky, full of spit and fire and has the snarkiness I love. Additionally, I reallly enjoyed her relationships with her sister and mother. There is a hint of a romance brewing with one of the other characters (whom I will not name); so, I cannot wait to read the next book and see where this is headed.
If the premise for this book and series sounds like something you would enjoy, you will be interested in knowing that this book is being offered for free on Amazon.com. I'm telling you it is well worth the read. So, check it out while you can.
March 10, 2015
WOW! I got sucked right into Isabel’s world and loved every single minute I was there. This book appealed to me because it flowed so well and the characters were quirky but believable – especially Isabel and her partner/ex, Shane. Isabel is a contradiction of strong, snarky, kick-ass heroine and vulnerable, heart-on-her shoulder, lost girl. I loved the depth of connection that exists between Isabel and Shane even though both are trying to move on to other life (or after-death) adventures. It is so obvious that they really should be together but there are also really, really good reasons why they must move on. Both are struggling to come to terms with their new realities, and I just loved the way in which the author presented their story.
More than the romance though, I loved the action and snappy, snarky dialogue that is conveyed so well throughout the novel. Isabel is a tremendously likeable protagonist with a compassionate soul that, like a magnet, pulls those close to her into her circle. She is a charismatic individual who just seems to bring out the best in others.
I love Isabel and Shane’s partnership, and I would love to read more adventures as their investigative abilities are put to additional tests and challenges. Personally, they have issues which may be difficult, or impossible, to resolve but professionally they are a dynamic, complementary duo innately suited as private investigators to be a formidable force against evil-doers and bullies, wherever they may hide.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
More than the romance though, I loved the action and snappy, snarky dialogue that is conveyed so well throughout the novel. Isabel is a tremendously likeable protagonist with a compassionate soul that, like a magnet, pulls those close to her into her circle. She is a charismatic individual who just seems to bring out the best in others.
I love Isabel and Shane’s partnership, and I would love to read more adventures as their investigative abilities are put to additional tests and challenges. Personally, they have issues which may be difficult, or impossible, to resolve but professionally they are a dynamic, complementary duo innately suited as private investigators to be a formidable force against evil-doers and bullies, wherever they may hide.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
August 28, 2015
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*
Vampires, and Murder, and sass- oh my!
This story started off with a bang and immediately had me devouring it.
Isabel is pretty much the most kick-ass, hilarious chick ever penned. She's sarcastic and confident, but also emotional when the situation warrants it. After all, she's just your average private investigator with a vampire ex-fiance for a partner. She felt very real and complex, and I might be in love with her.
The relathionship between her and Shane is perfection. What would you do if you got stood up at the altar, only to find out that your groom had been turned into a vampire? I have no freaking clue and neither does Isabel. Things are complicated to say the least, but she handles things the best way she knows how. The dynamic between them was expertly handled and I cannot wait to see what happens with them next!
Aside from my infatuation with the characters, the plot was also amazing. There's a firebug, a missing person, suspicious Weres, shady Vamps, a religious cult, a growing pile of corpses... And they're all somehow connected.
Yeah. This book is never boring.
Overall I give this 5 exuberant stars!
Go read it! Then tell your friends! Then tell some strangers too! They'll thank you for it. ;-)
Vampires, and Murder, and sass- oh my!
This story started off with a bang and immediately had me devouring it.
Isabel is pretty much the most kick-ass, hilarious chick ever penned. She's sarcastic and confident, but also emotional when the situation warrants it. After all, she's just your average private investigator with a vampire ex-fiance for a partner. She felt very real and complex, and I might be in love with her.
The relathionship between her and Shane is perfection. What would you do if you got stood up at the altar, only to find out that your groom had been turned into a vampire? I have no freaking clue and neither does Isabel. Things are complicated to say the least, but she handles things the best way she knows how. The dynamic between them was expertly handled and I cannot wait to see what happens with them next!
Aside from my infatuation with the characters, the plot was also amazing. There's a firebug, a missing person, suspicious Weres, shady Vamps, a religious cult, a growing pile of corpses... And they're all somehow connected.
Yeah. This book is never boring.
Overall I give this 5 exuberant stars!
Go read it! Then tell your friends! Then tell some strangers too! They'll thank you for it. ;-)
February 20, 2016
I am not going to lie; I read this book because it was my blogger book club pick and she was coming to an author event near me. I also read this book with kindle's 'word runner,' which promptly made me fall in love. I can read a book so quickly with it! It's fantastic for moms like me, who are constantly looking for the time to read.
Now, back to the review....The thing I have learned lately is that the blogger group has great tastes in books. Never did I expect to love Chasing Daybreak as much as I did. Why aren't more people reading books when stories like this are free on Amazon?? I would gladly pay a pretty penny for this story, but due to my 'book diet,' the second in the series will be the first book I buy after I lose a lb. (I'll explain more on this in a later post)
It was simply amazing. I loved the author's story telling abilities and writing style. I was quickly immersed in Isabell's chaotic life, and it left me begging for more. I adored her personality. Her relationship with Shane broke my heart, but also made me look forward to the next book and what may come. This book is better than MANY big-5 publisher books I've read recently. Sherry Ficklin in on my radar and I think I might be in love.
Now, back to the review....The thing I have learned lately is that the blogger group has great tastes in books. Never did I expect to love Chasing Daybreak as much as I did. Why aren't more people reading books when stories like this are free on Amazon?? I would gladly pay a pretty penny for this story, but due to my 'book diet,' the second in the series will be the first book I buy after I lose a lb. (I'll explain more on this in a later post)
It was simply amazing. I loved the author's story telling abilities and writing style. I was quickly immersed in Isabell's chaotic life, and it left me begging for more. I adored her personality. Her relationship with Shane broke my heart, but also made me look forward to the next book and what may come. This book is better than MANY big-5 publisher books I've read recently. Sherry Ficklin in on my radar and I think I might be in love.
March 10, 2015
*I was provided a complementary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Can you imagine getting left at the alter, then finding out that the reason was because your fiancée was now a vampire? Not bad enough? OK, how about now having said fiancée living in your house and now he's your PI partner?
This is exactly what Isabel Stone has to deal with every day.
I really loved this book, and I can't wait to read more from the author. I think that having a PI vampire is just fantastic and I love that Isabel took the job looking for a missing housewife just to help provide closure for the husband and with Shane's help... she found out it was much much more!
Start throwing in all the presents of dead bodies left on her front porch and this REALLY gets interesting!
Go pre-order yours and see what I mean for yourself!
Loved it!!!
~Dowie
Can you imagine getting left at the alter, then finding out that the reason was because your fiancée was now a vampire? Not bad enough? OK, how about now having said fiancée living in your house and now he's your PI partner?
This is exactly what Isabel Stone has to deal with every day.
I really loved this book, and I can't wait to read more from the author. I think that having a PI vampire is just fantastic and I love that Isabel took the job looking for a missing housewife just to help provide closure for the husband and with Shane's help... she found out it was much much more!
Start throwing in all the presents of dead bodies left on her front porch and this REALLY gets interesting!
Go pre-order yours and see what I mean for yourself!
Loved it!!!
~Dowie
March 5, 2021
I love urban fantasy/paranormal, and Chasing Daybreak has all the essentials—vampires and werewolves, good guys and bad guys (you can’t always tell which is which), a murder mystery, some romance, and that undefinable something that pulls it all together and makes for one great read. Isobel Stone is a great character—strong and sassy. She is no shrinking violet, and it’s a good thing because life just won’t give her a break. Swearing, violence, and steamy kissing and groping. Read my full review here: http://bit.ly/1ixqp6j
December 14, 2015
I liked the book, it reminded me a bit of Charlaine Harris's Sookie Steakhouse books. Without the mind-reading stuff, of course.
September 28, 2022
I definitely enjoyed reading this one.
Very believable characters and motivations.
The characters have depth and are flawed just the right amount.
At times it becomes a little bit too cutesy for my taste but that is entirely subjective.
But don't get me wrong, most of the story is not cutesy at all. There is quite a bit of blood and death.
The interpersonal conflicts are interesting and seem credible.
My two problems with this story are first, a lot of details are hinted at but almost nothing is actually fleshed out. The book makes the impression of having complex and intricate world-building but if you actually think about it almost no actual detail is provided anywhere which was fine while I was engrossed in the story but it makes the entire experience ring a bit hollow afterward.
My second problem is the incredibly boring and uninspired plot. For most of the book, we get very few concrete clues about what is actually going on. A bit like with the world-building, the plot gives the impression of being intricate and many-faceted but the resolution couldn't be more uninspired and boring. The action around the climax is good but the actual reveal was incredibly disappointing which lead to a pretty bad aftertaste.
Basically, 95% of the book is completely irrelevant to the actual core plot the book pretends to be about.
That 95% were interesting though which makes it even more frustrating!
Fickling is clearly a capable author but I suspect she has written too much mediocre YA to shake her bad habits which most readers don't care about in the YA segment, even when writing NA. (Though, to be fair, the NA genre has collected a pretty bad reputation over time too because of the many unedited indie (mostly KU) entries.)
This becomes even more obvious when reading the second book in the series in which the author basically entirely forgot about her target audience and just wrote yet another teenage YA angsty paranormal romance but with characters that happened to be adults on paper (only).
A lot of more general lazy writing sins crop up in the second book as well.
In the second book, the author didn't even try to tell the story in first-person from the perspective of the main character but just jumps into the head of whoever is most convenient at the time.
This kind of storytelling can work very well if used deliberately and strategically but that is not the case here. Instead, we just end up with the classical situation of the reader knowing more than the individual characters but the characters refuse to exchange information for contrived reasons. If this is the kind of tension you like, go ahead, but in my experience, this trope is generally not appreciated.
Another warning I have to give is that while the first book gives the impression of a more mature approach to relationships the second one fully commits to an angsty and unnecessary YA-grade love-triangle drama without any resolution.
This first book is definitely worth a read but the second one is just bad.
And while there is no outright cliffhanger in this one it's still clearly meant to be read as part of the series so it's difficult to give a recommendation for only the first one.
And even ignoring the sub-par quality of the second book, it is very much open-ended as well, promising a third book which the author never bothered to write so you don't even get the satisfaction of finishing the series after suffering through it.
Very believable characters and motivations.
The characters have depth and are flawed just the right amount.
At times it becomes a little bit too cutesy for my taste but that is entirely subjective.
But don't get me wrong, most of the story is not cutesy at all. There is quite a bit of blood and death.
The interpersonal conflicts are interesting and seem credible.
My two problems with this story are first, a lot of details are hinted at but almost nothing is actually fleshed out. The book makes the impression of having complex and intricate world-building but if you actually think about it almost no actual detail is provided anywhere which was fine while I was engrossed in the story but it makes the entire experience ring a bit hollow afterward.
My second problem is the incredibly boring and uninspired plot. For most of the book, we get very few concrete clues about what is actually going on. A bit like with the world-building, the plot gives the impression of being intricate and many-faceted but the resolution couldn't be more uninspired and boring. The action around the climax is good but the actual reveal was incredibly disappointing which lead to a pretty bad aftertaste.
Basically, 95% of the book is completely irrelevant to the actual core plot the book pretends to be about.
That 95% were interesting though which makes it even more frustrating!
Fickling is clearly a capable author but I suspect she has written too much mediocre YA to shake her bad habits which most readers don't care about in the YA segment, even when writing NA. (Though, to be fair, the NA genre has collected a pretty bad reputation over time too because of the many unedited indie (mostly KU) entries.)
This becomes even more obvious when reading the second book in the series in which the author basically entirely forgot about her target audience and just wrote yet another teenage YA angsty paranormal romance but with characters that happened to be adults on paper (only).
A lot of more general lazy writing sins crop up in the second book as well.
In the second book, the author didn't even try to tell the story in first-person from the perspective of the main character but just jumps into the head of whoever is most convenient at the time.
This kind of storytelling can work very well if used deliberately and strategically but that is not the case here. Instead, we just end up with the classical situation of the reader knowing more than the individual characters but the characters refuse to exchange information for contrived reasons. If this is the kind of tension you like, go ahead, but in my experience, this trope is generally not appreciated.
Another warning I have to give is that while the first book gives the impression of a more mature approach to relationships the second one fully commits to an angsty and unnecessary YA-grade love-triangle drama without any resolution.
This first book is definitely worth a read but the second one is just bad.
And while there is no outright cliffhanger in this one it's still clearly meant to be read as part of the series so it's difficult to give a recommendation for only the first one.
And even ignoring the sub-par quality of the second book, it is very much open-ended as well, promising a third book which the author never bothered to write so you don't even get the satisfaction of finishing the series after suffering through it.
February 4, 2020
Isabel Stone has gone through many hardships, including being stood up at the alter, on the day of her wedding, by her long term love Shane. It wasn't really his fault since he was bitten by a vampire against his will. Now that he had control of his bloodlust, they were friends. Her father passed awAy, leaving her his paranormal PI business, and pulling her from her university. Plus her mom was struggling with the bakery and trying to raise her sisters, so she had joined forces with Shane and took over her father's place. This writer is awesome. I loved her characters, and story line. The story if you read it is really awesome, but for some unknown reason she writes this, and one more, ending in a cliffhanger, and that is it. She has written since, so I have no idea why she stopped this series. I'm just warning you. This first book was a completed story, so I gave it a five.. Book two left the ending hanging, and it got a 4, plus a snarky review as to really? So you need to decide........
July 25, 2017
I really enjoyed this book and it is the first book by this author that I have read. I love the supernatural genre and this one doesn't disappoint. In it, we meet Isabel who has been through a few trials and tribulations in her life such as her father dying and her former fiancé who was attacked before their wedding and subsequently made into a vampire.
We see Isabel and her former fiancé Shane (can I just say I find him a bit of a douche and he really doesn't treat Isabel nicely) working as PI's and hunting down a woman who has gone missing. Enter a few secondary characters who are entertaining and a hunky love interest and you've got an easy read book. I don't want to give too much away! Read it, love it, but the next in the series. I know I will be!
We see Isabel and her former fiancé Shane (can I just say I find him a bit of a douche and he really doesn't treat Isabel nicely) working as PI's and hunting down a woman who has gone missing. Enter a few secondary characters who are entertaining and a hunky love interest and you've got an easy read book. I don't want to give too much away! Read it, love it, but the next in the series. I know I will be!
April 19, 2018
This book was such an interesting and new take on an old and boring story. I loved Isobel as a main character. She was feisty, and strong, but also vulnerable and sympathetic. I found myself really rooting for her. It has elements we've read before: vampires, weres, a strong female lead who was kickass, the world knew about the supernatural so the push and pull of this was evident, a love story etc. All aspects that have been written many times before, but this book mixed it with a wonderful and intriguing mystery, and family issues. Truly memorable. I can't wait to read the rest.
April 17, 2015
Full review and more available at: http://oneguysguidetogoodreads.blogsp...
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My Thoughts:
It should come as absolutely no surprise to any of you that I'm reviewing this read. For months now I've been pushing for New Adult books that aren't solely rooted in romance and have come back with some excellent new favorites. Vampires are among my all time favorite paranormal creatures, so what's not to like from a paranormal thriller with one heck of a mystery attached?
The first thing I'd like to discuss is the 'New Adult-ness" of this read. Yes, it is a New Adult novel, but it's a pretty safe NA. The violence isn't any worse than I've read from a YA, neither is the language. There isn't any explicit content to speak of, though there was some tension going on. The only thing that really labeled this novel as a New Adult read to me was the ages of the characters. I have no problems with that, at all, but if you are heading into this read looking for some steamy mortal-vampire sex, keep on looking, you won't find it here (thankfully).
I've mentioned before in several of my reviews that I generally won't read mystery novels. I just hate the suspense. I get all antsy and spend too much time analyzing plot points to enjoy the novel. Thankfully Glass found a way to write an awesome mystery novel without making it too overbearing. I will admit that I think the 'whodunnit' for this one was a little too easy, but the getting there had lots of twists and turns to throw you off track, which was nice. There were a lot of moments when I can seriously say I didn't see something coming, but I would have liked to see just a bit more action. Whereas some novels are active, this one was a bit passive. There was a lot more sitting and thinking than actual doing. In the end, we did get an awesome action finale, but I would have liked to have seen a few more of those adrenaline filled scenes.
I may be a male reader, but I have a thing for strong, intelligent female characters. Ranae Glass took that to the next level with Isabel Stone. Isabel is smart, sassy, hot, strong, and so much more. She's got a compelling backstory, a sharp mind, and more determination than I've seen in a female character in quite some time. I really enjoyed Glass' character development. That being said, Stone wasn't my favorite character in the novel. That title, instead, goes to her partner Shane, a recently turned vampire, and her former fiance. Shane plays a major role in the story, but we really don't see as much of him as I would have liked. Shane is really the only insight we get into the lives is the supernatural community in this novel so I hope we see lots of him in the future. Also, am I wrong for really wanting to see Isabel and Shane back together in the end? Who says death can stop true love? LOL.
The paranormal element in this novel was pretty interesting. I'll go ahead and admit that I'm not too big a fan of the "vampires out of the coffin" situation. Anyone who knows me knows that The Southern Vampire Mystery Novels, AKA The Sookie Stackhouse Series, AKA "Those True Blood Books" are one of my all-time favorite series, but, I really think that situation is Charlaine Harris specific. Those novels had so much going on that you really didn't even think about vampire's existence being known to mortals. Glass has opted to take the 'out of the coffin' method and apply it to this series as well, and while it's a unique take on the genre, I really would like to see more of the how and why it happened. Glass really doesn't supply much backstory on the vamps. We also really don't learn many specifics about Glass' vamps. Each author has their one take on the species, so I'm anxious to see what Glass will introduce in future novels. Werewolves also are present in the novel, but they are nothing more than a passing plotline, I'm hoping Glass finds a way to pick them up for future use. Any paranormal fan shouldn't find fault with Glass' interpretation of the genre and will find it quite a refreshing experience!
As I mentioned before, the violence and romance levels for this novel were way lower than I expected. Glass definitely doesn't leave us disappointed, but I was hoping for a bit more 'umph' from a New Adult branded read. There really isn't a romance element to speak of, but there is enough talk of Isabel's past to leave you wondering what's happening next. I'm really excited to see where this series is going. Chasing Daybreak really only felt like a taste of what Ranae Glass has in store for her readers with this series! Per the violence, it wasn't any worse than one may read from a YA read, but there was some gore involved. Of course, whoever is reading a vampire novel and isn't expecting gore probably should just stop reading in this genre right now.
All-in-all, I am granting Chasing Daybreak a well-deserved 4-star review. While it isn't my all time favorite vampire novel, I really like the direction that the author is going in! A unique spin on a genre that's become a little over-inflated as of late, Glass is a breathe of fresh air! The second novel in this series, Chasing Midnight is due out soon and I'll have to get my hands on it ASAP!
*********************************************************************************
*********************************************************************************
My Thoughts:
It should come as absolutely no surprise to any of you that I'm reviewing this read. For months now I've been pushing for New Adult books that aren't solely rooted in romance and have come back with some excellent new favorites. Vampires are among my all time favorite paranormal creatures, so what's not to like from a paranormal thriller with one heck of a mystery attached?
The first thing I'd like to discuss is the 'New Adult-ness" of this read. Yes, it is a New Adult novel, but it's a pretty safe NA. The violence isn't any worse than I've read from a YA, neither is the language. There isn't any explicit content to speak of, though there was some tension going on. The only thing that really labeled this novel as a New Adult read to me was the ages of the characters. I have no problems with that, at all, but if you are heading into this read looking for some steamy mortal-vampire sex, keep on looking, you won't find it here (thankfully).
I've mentioned before in several of my reviews that I generally won't read mystery novels. I just hate the suspense. I get all antsy and spend too much time analyzing plot points to enjoy the novel. Thankfully Glass found a way to write an awesome mystery novel without making it too overbearing. I will admit that I think the 'whodunnit' for this one was a little too easy, but the getting there had lots of twists and turns to throw you off track, which was nice. There were a lot of moments when I can seriously say I didn't see something coming, but I would have liked to see just a bit more action. Whereas some novels are active, this one was a bit passive. There was a lot more sitting and thinking than actual doing. In the end, we did get an awesome action finale, but I would have liked to have seen a few more of those adrenaline filled scenes.
I may be a male reader, but I have a thing for strong, intelligent female characters. Ranae Glass took that to the next level with Isabel Stone. Isabel is smart, sassy, hot, strong, and so much more. She's got a compelling backstory, a sharp mind, and more determination than I've seen in a female character in quite some time. I really enjoyed Glass' character development. That being said, Stone wasn't my favorite character in the novel. That title, instead, goes to her partner Shane, a recently turned vampire, and her former fiance. Shane plays a major role in the story, but we really don't see as much of him as I would have liked. Shane is really the only insight we get into the lives is the supernatural community in this novel so I hope we see lots of him in the future. Also, am I wrong for really wanting to see Isabel and Shane back together in the end? Who says death can stop true love? LOL.
The paranormal element in this novel was pretty interesting. I'll go ahead and admit that I'm not too big a fan of the "vampires out of the coffin" situation. Anyone who knows me knows that The Southern Vampire Mystery Novels, AKA The Sookie Stackhouse Series, AKA "Those True Blood Books" are one of my all-time favorite series, but, I really think that situation is Charlaine Harris specific. Those novels had so much going on that you really didn't even think about vampire's existence being known to mortals. Glass has opted to take the 'out of the coffin' method and apply it to this series as well, and while it's a unique take on the genre, I really would like to see more of the how and why it happened. Glass really doesn't supply much backstory on the vamps. We also really don't learn many specifics about Glass' vamps. Each author has their one take on the species, so I'm anxious to see what Glass will introduce in future novels. Werewolves also are present in the novel, but they are nothing more than a passing plotline, I'm hoping Glass finds a way to pick them up for future use. Any paranormal fan shouldn't find fault with Glass' interpretation of the genre and will find it quite a refreshing experience!
As I mentioned before, the violence and romance levels for this novel were way lower than I expected. Glass definitely doesn't leave us disappointed, but I was hoping for a bit more 'umph' from a New Adult branded read. There really isn't a romance element to speak of, but there is enough talk of Isabel's past to leave you wondering what's happening next. I'm really excited to see where this series is going. Chasing Daybreak really only felt like a taste of what Ranae Glass has in store for her readers with this series! Per the violence, it wasn't any worse than one may read from a YA read, but there was some gore involved. Of course, whoever is reading a vampire novel and isn't expecting gore probably should just stop reading in this genre right now.
All-in-all, I am granting Chasing Daybreak a well-deserved 4-star review. While it isn't my all time favorite vampire novel, I really like the direction that the author is going in! A unique spin on a genre that's become a little over-inflated as of late, Glass is a breathe of fresh air! The second novel in this series, Chasing Midnight is due out soon and I'll have to get my hands on it ASAP!
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January 2, 2018
This was delightful mix of kick arse heroine, comedic one liners and crime fighting.
Isabel has inherited a PI business from her father and feels responsible for caring for her sisters.
Her personal life has fallen apart so she works hard but is thrown into the deep end with the local Vampires.
Not really knowing how to respond to her new friends she has to work out where she fits in this new world.
June 26, 2018
I really liked this book. It was a new take of vampires and crime drama. It was original and had plenty of humor mixed into the mystery. Chasing Daybreak had an interesting cast of characters, all with real, human emotion (even though many of them weren't human) that made them relatable. The chemistry was incredible.
It did feel rushed, but this book was an enjoyable read.
For a more thorough review, click the link below.
https://youtu.be/bYBLGsVoLkA
It did feel rushed, but this book was an enjoyable read.
For a more thorough review, click the link below.
https://youtu.be/bYBLGsVoLkA
December 28, 2017
Unique Story
Loved the different perspective of this author, on a genre that has been around a long time.
Can't wait to see how the rest of this series plays out.
Also, talk about a slow boil on the start of a possible smoking hot, sexy relationship...on the edge of my seat!!!
Well done Ranae Glass!
Loved the different perspective of this author, on a genre that has been around a long time.
Can't wait to see how the rest of this series plays out.
Also, talk about a slow boil on the start of a possible smoking hot, sexy relationship...on the edge of my seat!!!
Well done Ranae Glass!
June 30, 2017
Daybreak
A young readers book about detectives, vampires and the like. No real gore and thankfully not in the same vein (pun intended) the 'Twilight' books. Enjoyed this easy read. Couldn't sleep and read it in one sitting. Will look into Ranae Glass other works.
A young readers book about detectives, vampires and the like. No real gore and thankfully not in the same vein (pun intended) the 'Twilight' books. Enjoyed this easy read. Couldn't sleep and read it in one sitting. Will look into Ranae Glass other works.
September 21, 2017
Ok, so I'm hooked but now I'm pissed. I just found out that the author planned to write four books for this series but ended up only writing two, which was years ago. I hate it when I get hooked on a series and then the author doesn't finish it properly or takes YEARS to finish.
February 2, 2018
Awesome book!
This is one of my new favourite authors. This book was funny and clever. The characters were interesting and the heroine was fiesty and hilarious. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
This is one of my new favourite authors. This book was funny and clever. The characters were interesting and the heroine was fiesty and hilarious. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
August 13, 2021
Paranormal investigator.
Sherry d ficklin offering. Suitable for teens and adults. A young woman inherits a detective agency. Difficulties multiply and bodies are being delivered to her porch. Very similar to the early Anita Blake novels.
Sherry d ficklin offering. Suitable for teens and adults. A young woman inherits a detective agency. Difficulties multiply and bodies are being delivered to her porch. Very similar to the early Anita Blake novels.
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