What do you think?
Rate this book
Supernatural #13
Cold Fire
A brand-new Supernatural novel that reveals a previously unseen adventure for the Winchester brothers, from the hit CW series!
While replacing sections of his rotten wooden fence, Dave Holcomb, a new homeowner in Braden Heights, Indiana hears a baby’s cry from behind his utility shed, and investigates. Hours later, his wife returns home to find his eyeless corpse. But Dave is only the first of many male victims butchered by a supernatural murderer with a distinct M.O., and now the Winchester brothers discover that pregnant women in Braden Heights have begun to go missing...
While replacing sections of his rotten wooden fence, Dave Holcomb, a new homeowner in Braden Heights, Indiana hears a baby’s cry from behind his utility shed, and investigates. Hours later, his wife returns home to find his eyeless corpse. But Dave is only the first of many male victims butchered by a supernatural murderer with a distinct M.O., and now the Winchester brothers discover that pregnant women in Braden Heights have begun to go missing...
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2016
About the author
John Passarella
36 books164 followersBram Stoker Award-Winning co-author of Wither (which has been moved to the J. G. Passarella profile. Also, I'm the author of Wither's Rain, Wither's Legacy, Kindred Spirit, Shimmer, Exit Strategy & Others (fiction collection), and the media tie-in novels: Supernatural: COLD FIRE (MAR 2016), Night Terror & Rite of Passage, Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Ghoul Trouble, Angel: Avatar & Monolith. Look for Grimm: The Chopping Block. My author website is Passarella.com
but I am also owner & web designer at AuthorPromo.com
but I am also owner & web designer at AuthorPromo.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
March 4, 2021
This is a book based on the television series and takes place during the tenth season. In this one Dean and Sam go to a small town in Indiana. In this small town are victims that are slashed to death and their eyes are gouged out of their head.
This book didn't do much for me as I was actually bored while reading it. I believe the problem was the layout of the book. In the opening act the boys are battling a chimera. No problem with that as there is plenty of action. The problem arises is that it took up the first twenty five percent of the book. One quarter of a book devoted to a scene that has nothing to do with the actual story is a little excessive. Finally we get to the story and the investigation. I think this went on for too long as when we get to the conclusion that seemed rushed and left questions unanswered. As for the portrayal of the established characters from the show there was nothing special. I could picture them but I didn't think it captured their true essence. It felt like something was missing.
The author had some good ideas. Unfortunately it didn't translate well on paper. There is a story here that could have been enjoyable. I have read several books in this universe and I don't expect amazing literature. I do expect to be entertained and not bored. I could never get into this book as a result of my boredom.
This book didn't do much for me as I was actually bored while reading it. I believe the problem was the layout of the book. In the opening act the boys are battling a chimera. No problem with that as there is plenty of action. The problem arises is that it took up the first twenty five percent of the book. One quarter of a book devoted to a scene that has nothing to do with the actual story is a little excessive. Finally we get to the story and the investigation. I think this went on for too long as when we get to the conclusion that seemed rushed and left questions unanswered. As for the portrayal of the established characters from the show there was nothing special. I could picture them but I didn't think it captured their true essence. It felt like something was missing.
The author had some good ideas. Unfortunately it didn't translate well on paper. There is a story here that could have been enjoyable. I have read several books in this universe and I don't expect amazing literature. I do expect to be entertained and not bored. I could never get into this book as a result of my boredom.
November 24, 2018
Castiel... im officer Collins. Haha I like what you did there Passarella
July 12, 2016
Definitely my favourite Supernatural book thus far. Set in season 10, the Winchesters and Castiel set out to determine the cause of a series of strange deaths that local law enforcement have pinned as animal attacks. The only connection aside from the manner of death seems to be that the victims were all male, and all soon to be fathers.
The author introduced a new monster that was compelling, as well as a backstory to the monster's creation that kept you guessing til the reveal. The various victims' families were all well written and diverse, and I felt that (especially considering the page count) the author did a good job of giving ample time to both victims and the Winchesters, something I feel previous Supernatural books have found difficult to balance. Furthermore, the author made sure to give credence to details that would've been relevant given the timeframe of season 10. Dean's attempts to ward off the effects of the Mark of Cain, Sam's concern for the impact of the Mark on his brother, and Castiel's guilt and desire to protect Claire Novak were all done rather nicely!
My only complaint was the length of time it took for the author to get into the actual plot- a large portion of the first quarter of the book was dedicated to the boys finishing off a previous hunt. While this "end of one hunt, onto the next" trope is common with the novels, it went on a little too long and delayed the beginning of the boys' discovery of the actual case that serves as a basis for the plot. This is a minor complaint, obviously, as the rest of the book was fabulous once the plot began.
Excellent read! Definitely a new favourite.
The author introduced a new monster that was compelling, as well as a backstory to the monster's creation that kept you guessing til the reveal. The various victims' families were all well written and diverse, and I felt that (especially considering the page count) the author did a good job of giving ample time to both victims and the Winchesters, something I feel previous Supernatural books have found difficult to balance. Furthermore, the author made sure to give credence to details that would've been relevant given the timeframe of season 10. Dean's attempts to ward off the effects of the Mark of Cain, Sam's concern for the impact of the Mark on his brother, and Castiel's guilt and desire to protect Claire Novak were all done rather nicely!
My only complaint was the length of time it took for the author to get into the actual plot- a large portion of the first quarter of the book was dedicated to the boys finishing off a previous hunt. While this "end of one hunt, onto the next" trope is common with the novels, it went on a little too long and delayed the beginning of the boys' discovery of the actual case that serves as a basis for the plot. This is a minor complaint, obviously, as the rest of the book was fabulous once the plot began.
Excellent read! Definitely a new favourite.
July 12, 2026
I'm continuing my journey through the Supernatural tie-in novels, and this one is a bit of a mixed bag for me. It's certainly a step down from Carved in Flesh, though not without its strengths.
One thing this novel absolutely succeeds at is characterization. Set during the period when Dean bears the Mark of Cain and Charlie is searching for the Book of the Damned, it perfectly captures everyone's personalities, mental states, and, in Castiel's case, his diminished power level during that point in the series. That's vital if a tie-in novel is going to genuinely feel like an episode of the show, and it's an area where several earlier novels have stumbled. I really appreciated how faithfully this one handled the cast.
Where things become much shakier is in the plot and its "Monster of the Week."
Right from the start, I have to say the early Chimera storyline simply didn't work for me. It felt unnecessary, contributed very little to the overall narrative, and existed almost entirely as a vehicle to showcase Dean's struggle against the Mark of Cain. Unfortunately, it comes across as sloppy, oddly placed within the story, and more like a generic horror movie creature than something from Supernatural. Worst of all, it drags on for several chapters. This entire sequence could have been condensed into a single chapter: the boys wrapping up an unrelated hunt, Dean's bloodlust flaring just before the kill, and then moving directly into the main mystery. Instead, the novel spends far too much time on a subplot that never really earns its page count.
The actual mystery, however, is where the novel shines.
A string of men in a small rural town are found brutally murdered, their eyes slashed out and bodies horribly mutilated, seemingly with no connection between the victims. The investigation unfolds at a satisfying pace, taking the Winchesters a long time to identify both the pattern and the creature responsible. I really enjoyed that. One criticism I often have of the later television seasons is how quickly Sam and Dean solve their weekly hunts so the story can return to whatever celestial or infernal crisis is dominating the season. This novel avoids that trap. While Dean's struggle with the Mark remains an important backdrop, the mystery itself stays front and center, and I think that was the right decision.
Where the book began losing me again was during the climax.
The choice of monster was genuinely inspired, but much like another tie-in novel before it, the mythology behind it was mishandled. Without venturing into spoiler territory, the investigation strongly points toward a Filipino origin, only for the novel to ultimately use creatures drawn from Malaysian and Indonesian folklore instead. Yes, they're all part of Southeast Asia, but that doesn't make those mythologies interchangeable. It's a detail many readers may never notice, but it pulled me out of the story more than a little.
The ending itself also felt underwhelming. I understand that finales can be difficult to stick, but this resolution never felt particularly satisfying or rewarding after the strong buildup.
I also have one recurring complaint whenever Castiel appears in these novels. While I fully understand he's significantly weakened during this period of the show, nearly every tie-in book—Coyote's Kiss being the lone exception—either sidelines him completely or has him struggle with situations that even this weakened version of Castiel should be able to handle with relative ease. This novel unfortunately falls into the latter category. It's a small gripe, but one that keeps popping up throughout the series.
Despite those criticisms, I wouldn't call Cold Fire a bad novel. In fact, it gets many of the objective things right. The continuity is excellent, the characters feel authentic, and the story fits neatly into the show's timeline. My issues are largely personal preferences regarding pacing, mythology, and the payoff.
For me, though, I can't rate it any higher than 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's a perfectly enjoyable read, but there are simply much stronger Supernatural novels out there.
Wanna check out my other Supernatural book reviews? Check em out below!
Nevermore: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Witch's Canyon: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bone Key: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Heart of the Dragon: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Unholy Cause: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
War of the Sons: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
One Year Gone: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Coyote's Kiss: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Night Terror: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rite of Passage: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Fresh Meat: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Carved in Flesh: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Men of Letters Bestiary: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
One thing this novel absolutely succeeds at is characterization. Set during the period when Dean bears the Mark of Cain and Charlie is searching for the Book of the Damned, it perfectly captures everyone's personalities, mental states, and, in Castiel's case, his diminished power level during that point in the series. That's vital if a tie-in novel is going to genuinely feel like an episode of the show, and it's an area where several earlier novels have stumbled. I really appreciated how faithfully this one handled the cast.
Where things become much shakier is in the plot and its "Monster of the Week."
Right from the start, I have to say the early Chimera storyline simply didn't work for me. It felt unnecessary, contributed very little to the overall narrative, and existed almost entirely as a vehicle to showcase Dean's struggle against the Mark of Cain. Unfortunately, it comes across as sloppy, oddly placed within the story, and more like a generic horror movie creature than something from Supernatural. Worst of all, it drags on for several chapters. This entire sequence could have been condensed into a single chapter: the boys wrapping up an unrelated hunt, Dean's bloodlust flaring just before the kill, and then moving directly into the main mystery. Instead, the novel spends far too much time on a subplot that never really earns its page count.
The actual mystery, however, is where the novel shines.
A string of men in a small rural town are found brutally murdered, their eyes slashed out and bodies horribly mutilated, seemingly with no connection between the victims. The investigation unfolds at a satisfying pace, taking the Winchesters a long time to identify both the pattern and the creature responsible. I really enjoyed that. One criticism I often have of the later television seasons is how quickly Sam and Dean solve their weekly hunts so the story can return to whatever celestial or infernal crisis is dominating the season. This novel avoids that trap. While Dean's struggle with the Mark remains an important backdrop, the mystery itself stays front and center, and I think that was the right decision.
Where the book began losing me again was during the climax.
The choice of monster was genuinely inspired, but much like another tie-in novel before it, the mythology behind it was mishandled. Without venturing into spoiler territory, the investigation strongly points toward a Filipino origin, only for the novel to ultimately use creatures drawn from Malaysian and Indonesian folklore instead. Yes, they're all part of Southeast Asia, but that doesn't make those mythologies interchangeable. It's a detail many readers may never notice, but it pulled me out of the story more than a little.
The ending itself also felt underwhelming. I understand that finales can be difficult to stick, but this resolution never felt particularly satisfying or rewarding after the strong buildup.
I also have one recurring complaint whenever Castiel appears in these novels. While I fully understand he's significantly weakened during this period of the show, nearly every tie-in book—Coyote's Kiss being the lone exception—either sidelines him completely or has him struggle with situations that even this weakened version of Castiel should be able to handle with relative ease. This novel unfortunately falls into the latter category. It's a small gripe, but one that keeps popping up throughout the series.
Despite those criticisms, I wouldn't call Cold Fire a bad novel. In fact, it gets many of the objective things right. The continuity is excellent, the characters feel authentic, and the story fits neatly into the show's timeline. My issues are largely personal preferences regarding pacing, mythology, and the payoff.
For me, though, I can't rate it any higher than 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's a perfectly enjoyable read, but there are simply much stronger Supernatural novels out there.
Wanna check out my other Supernatural book reviews? Check em out below!
Nevermore: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Witch's Canyon: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bone Key: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Heart of the Dragon: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Unholy Cause: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
War of the Sons: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
One Year Gone: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Coyote's Kiss: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Night Terror: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rite of Passage: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Fresh Meat: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Carved in Flesh: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Men of Letters Bestiary: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 16, 2016
Rating: 3,5 / 5
*SPOILER-FREE REVIEW*
Very entertaining read for any hardcore Supernatural fan! Especially if you love Team Free Will <3
John Passarella did a great job with the characters, but there were some moments in which I thought: "Hm... I don't really think they would do that", but only a few. I missed Dean's sense of humor too, but since the story is set in season 10 (we all know what was going on with Dean back then), I guess it somehow makes sense. (Tim Waggonner is my favorite author so far, but I still have a lot of Supernatural books to read!)
A new monster is introduced in this book (one with a really weird name that I can't remember) and it was interesting to learn more about supernatural creatures.
If you are wondering how much of Castiel, Dean and Sam you will find in this story, I'll tell you that they're present 50% of the book more or less. Secondary characters are very important in John Passarella's writing and it was kinda boring for me sometimes. But as I said, if you are a hardcore fan like me, then give this book a chance. You'll like it!
*SPOILER-FREE REVIEW*
Very entertaining read for any hardcore Supernatural fan! Especially if you love Team Free Will <3
John Passarella did a great job with the characters, but there were some moments in which I thought: "Hm... I don't really think they would do that", but only a few. I missed Dean's sense of humor too, but since the story is set in season 10 (we all know what was going on with Dean back then), I guess it somehow makes sense. (Tim Waggonner is my favorite author so far, but I still have a lot of Supernatural books to read!)
A new monster is introduced in this book (one with a really weird name that I can't remember) and it was interesting to learn more about supernatural creatures.
If you are wondering how much of Castiel, Dean and Sam you will find in this story, I'll tell you that they're present 50% of the book more or less. Secondary characters are very important in John Passarella's writing and it was kinda boring for me sometimes. But as I said, if you are a hardcore fan like me, then give this book a chance. You'll like it!
April 5, 2016
Dean, Sam and Cass In the Maternity Ward
When my pre-order of this book arrived I was thrilled to bits. John Passarella usually does it for me but this time I was somewhat isappointed. Perhaps it was due to being unfamiliar with the monster, but it failed to frighten me. Still i fancy spending time with Sam, Dean and Cass. That's why I buy every book. Unless you're a hardcore fan of SUPERNATURAL, you may not enjoy this book. I eagerly await the next book in the series.
When my pre-order of this book arrived I was thrilled to bits. John Passarella usually does it for me but this time I was somewhat isappointed. Perhaps it was due to being unfamiliar with the monster, but it failed to frighten me. Still i fancy spending time with Sam, Dean and Cass. That's why I buy every book. Unless you're a hardcore fan of SUPERNATURAL, you may not enjoy this book. I eagerly await the next book in the series.
April 1, 2016
This author knows his fandom! This has all three members of Team Free Will working together to solve a complicated case with a monster that fans have not seen on the show. The characterization is good, with Dean struggling to keep control of the MOC and Castiel and Sam worrying about him.
Wish though he referred to the angel as Cas not Cass as my mind sounds these out differently.
I've read all of the tie-in novels and enjoyed this one.
Wish though he referred to the angel as Cas not Cass as my mind sounds these out differently.
I've read all of the tie-in novels and enjoyed this one.
October 26, 2019
Excellent!!
April 27, 2016
John Passarella, to me, seems to be one of the better authors when it comes to Supernatural tie-in novels.
I like that he is willing to reach for creatures that are outside the standard werewolf/ghost/vampire/angel/demon and he is able to include current season plots while maintaining the feel of the monster of the week.
If you're jonesing for more Dean and Sam and Cas I would say go ahead and pick up this one up.
I like that he is willing to reach for creatures that are outside the standard werewolf/ghost/vampire/angel/demon and he is able to include current season plots while maintaining the feel of the monster of the week.
If you're jonesing for more Dean and Sam and Cas I would say go ahead and pick up this one up.
June 14, 2018
Much as I dislike eye injuries I did love this story
November 27, 2022
I grew up watching and rooting for the Winchester brothers and I miss following along with their journey everyday. This book had a slow start but eventually picked up as the case went on. The monster was interesting and unique (I'm pretty sure we haven't seen this one before). Of course, nothing can compare to seeing Sam and Dean on screen, but I'll probably read the rest of the series so I don't have to say goodbye just yet.
October 15, 2018
So..ya girl finished this book. FINALLY. Took me long enough. Think I set a new record for myself. Yay.
It wasn’t that it wasn’t good or enjoyable, quite the oppostie actually. Just with Uni starting, don’t have as much time as I’d like to read.
SO, the book:
I expected a lot going into it. Being a huge fan of the Supernatural TV series, I wanted nothing short of amazing. And amazing is what I got. John Passarella really delivers a splendid job. Reading the book, you can imagine the characters actually saying what they say, or doing what they do. It’s as if it’s the script of an episode of SPN. The setting is nice, I love the way he describes different scenarioes, it’s just an althogether great read. Especially for SPN fans, of course.
The plot of the book was good. I like how the story was introduced, how it progressed, and how the author wrapped things up.
My only critisisim would be: Too much trauma my heart couldn’t take, not enough Team Freewill together.
Also, how the heck did Sam read that thing so fast?
It wasn’t that it wasn’t good or enjoyable, quite the oppostie actually. Just with Uni starting, don’t have as much time as I’d like to read.
SO, the book:
I expected a lot going into it. Being a huge fan of the Supernatural TV series, I wanted nothing short of amazing. And amazing is what I got. John Passarella really delivers a splendid job. Reading the book, you can imagine the characters actually saying what they say, or doing what they do. It’s as if it’s the script of an episode of SPN. The setting is nice, I love the way he describes different scenarioes, it’s just an althogether great read. Especially for SPN fans, of course.
The plot of the book was good. I like how the story was introduced, how it progressed, and how the author wrapped things up.
My only critisisim would be: Too much trauma my heart couldn’t take, not enough Team Freewill together.
Also, how the heck did Sam read that thing so fast?
December 9, 2018
This book was a book I bought for my dad then borrowed from my dad when he was finished with it. He is after all the biggest Supernatural fan I know.
I really liked the book and reading about a case that of course was not scene on tv. I think I just have a special place in my heart for tie in books. I did grow up reading most of the Charmed tie in books so of course now I am reading other shows haha.
I think the only downfall of this book was at times it seemed to move at a slower pace than I liked but other than that it was a nice quick read.
I really liked the book and reading about a case that of course was not scene on tv. I think I just have a special place in my heart for tie in books. I did grow up reading most of the Charmed tie in books so of course now I am reading other shows haha.
I think the only downfall of this book was at times it seemed to move at a slower pace than I liked but other than that it was a nice quick read.
December 26, 2023
This one took off with a bang - the Winchester brothers in a bloody, outrageous and BAMF-y showdown with a multi-bodied creature that seemed to stem right out of mythological fantasy. Okay, it had no connection to the rest of the story, other than illustrating Dean’s ongoing struggle to keep the Mark of Cain under control. But I had fun.
In comparison, the Monster of the Week case that follows is a relatively solid even if not all that compelling investigation in almost classic FBI fashion - except for the supernatural nature of the serial killer. A lot of interviewing witnesses while more murders happen, and, in familiar John Passarella fashion, we get to know the victims in more detail than truly necessary.
While it’s fun that, this time, Castiel is part of the investigation throughout the entire case, the usual humour involved isn’t present, and Castiel is mostly occupied with his paternal worries about Claire (although she isn’t in this book). Should’ve tugged on my maternal heartstrings, but it didn’t.
Curiously enough, none of the intended emotional beats touched me. Which is probably related to Passarella’s writing which simply stops short whenever it’s about to dive into some actual emotional depth. It’s a problem with all of the Supernatural books, in fact.
But I’ll give it to Passarella that he’s created another interesting monster with a good backstory, and the whole thing culminates in an engaging showdown, even if it falls short compared to the epic fight in the opening chapter.
In comparison, the Monster of the Week case that follows is a relatively solid even if not all that compelling investigation in almost classic FBI fashion - except for the supernatural nature of the serial killer. A lot of interviewing witnesses while more murders happen, and, in familiar John Passarella fashion, we get to know the victims in more detail than truly necessary.
While it’s fun that, this time, Castiel is part of the investigation throughout the entire case, the usual humour involved isn’t present, and Castiel is mostly occupied with his paternal worries about Claire (although she isn’t in this book). Should’ve tugged on my maternal heartstrings, but it didn’t.
Curiously enough, none of the intended emotional beats touched me. Which is probably related to Passarella’s writing which simply stops short whenever it’s about to dive into some actual emotional depth. It’s a problem with all of the Supernatural books, in fact.
But I’ll give it to Passarella that he’s created another interesting monster with a good backstory, and the whole thing culminates in an engaging showdown, even if it falls short compared to the epic fight in the opening chapter.
September 19, 2019
Okay, going into this book I had my doubts that I would enjoy it (I didn't like the other two of this series written by Passarella) but I was surprised. Not only is there a fantastic plot and wonderful storyline but Passarella himself showed development in his writing. The things that turned me off his work before had been changed and now I can't get enough. The story was compelling, you felt like you were really there with the boys and even the supporting characters (and monster) caused an emotional response. I would highly recommend this book to any Supernatural fan.
June 8, 2016
Well done, the author has a good grasp of the character and the setting. The author also did a good job coming up with a new, not yet seen 'monster of the week' for the book - it was well written, and just a bit gruesome considering the subject matter.
July 23, 2018
The opening section with the Chimera could have been about 75% shorter, and/or thematically relevant to the rest of the story. I also wouldn't mind if one of these novels captured some of the humour of the show.
January 18, 2019
I love Supernatural. I very much support the show, cast, writers, and even the tie-in novels.
My only problem with the tie-in novels-- and this seems to apply across the board-- is that they aren't well-written. There is zero prose. It's flat and monotone, describing characters' actions but not really ever getting in their heads, creating a jerky marionette show. I want to give this a higher rating to show support for the book, but at the same time don't want to show support for the author because I always have the same issues with his books.
The prose, or lack thereof. His pacing and structure are terrible. The book takes forever to get Sam and Dean on the case, instead, building up to it with the victims one-at-a-time. The boys are finally introduced into the story through a chimera case they're already on-- this part was awesome! I loved that. It was fast-paced, visually impactful, and in-character regarding Dean and his struggle with the Mark. The whole of it was really well done and polished, as was the subsequent scene at the bunker with Sam and Castiel worrying over Dean and the Mark. That was all well done and in-character. It felt like part of an episode. That was about the only section that can be described as such.
The book spends the majority of the time making the boys go back and forth to victims asking the same questions and getting nowhere. Lots of things are happening, but nothing is happening. This is the problem he had in previous books, as well. Tires spinning and getting absolutely zero traction so that the story feels stuck in the mud and not progressing at all.
Another thing that bugs me with this author, as well as Tim Waggoner, is the repetition of their words. He's very repetitive, not only in what's happening but describing the same things over and over in case you forgot, as well as being unnecessarily and repeatedly specific describing the make and model of the boys' guns or vehicles-- in case you forget that, as well. Just say that Dean pulled his gun rather than giving extra details just to put words on the page. This does not do anything to forward the plot or character development.
Overall, the book was dreadfully boring. That seems to be a trend with both John Passerella and Tim Waggoner. I just do not enjoy their books or writing. I hope Alice Henderson or Joe Schrieber write more books in the series, as they're the only two books I've really enjoyed thus far. I have another Tim Waggoner book to get through before getting to a title by new author to the series, Yvonne Navarro. I'm hopeful, as I always am, that I'll enjoy the next book more than the last. Tim Waggoner's books, at least, I've found I enjoy more when I use text-to-speech to read them. That didn't work with this book.
My only problem with the tie-in novels-- and this seems to apply across the board-- is that they aren't well-written. There is zero prose. It's flat and monotone, describing characters' actions but not really ever getting in their heads, creating a jerky marionette show. I want to give this a higher rating to show support for the book, but at the same time don't want to show support for the author because I always have the same issues with his books.
The prose, or lack thereof. His pacing and structure are terrible. The book takes forever to get Sam and Dean on the case, instead, building up to it with the victims one-at-a-time. The boys are finally introduced into the story through a chimera case they're already on-- this part was awesome! I loved that. It was fast-paced, visually impactful, and in-character regarding Dean and his struggle with the Mark. The whole of it was really well done and polished, as was the subsequent scene at the bunker with Sam and Castiel worrying over Dean and the Mark. That was all well done and in-character. It felt like part of an episode. That was about the only section that can be described as such.
The book spends the majority of the time making the boys go back and forth to victims asking the same questions and getting nowhere. Lots of things are happening, but nothing is happening. This is the problem he had in previous books, as well. Tires spinning and getting absolutely zero traction so that the story feels stuck in the mud and not progressing at all.
Another thing that bugs me with this author, as well as Tim Waggoner, is the repetition of their words. He's very repetitive, not only in what's happening but describing the same things over and over in case you forgot, as well as being unnecessarily and repeatedly specific describing the make and model of the boys' guns or vehicles-- in case you forget that, as well. Just say that Dean pulled his gun rather than giving extra details just to put words on the page. This does not do anything to forward the plot or character development.
Overall, the book was dreadfully boring. That seems to be a trend with both John Passerella and Tim Waggoner. I just do not enjoy their books or writing. I hope Alice Henderson or Joe Schrieber write more books in the series, as they're the only two books I've really enjoyed thus far. I have another Tim Waggoner book to get through before getting to a title by new author to the series, Yvonne Navarro. I'm hopeful, as I always am, that I'll enjoy the next book more than the last. Tim Waggoner's books, at least, I've found I enjoy more when I use text-to-speech to read them. That didn't work with this book.
October 21, 2019
Like the TV show, you’re introduced to the first victim in the beginning: Dave Holcomb. After he’s quickly and brutally disposed of by the unknown monster, the point of view switches to Sam and Dean Winchester finishing up a hunt for a Chimera. They head back the Bunker, their makeshift home, and they keep researching ways to get rid of the Mark of Cain from Dean’s arm. Frustrated and needing a break, the Winchesters drive to Braden Heights, Indiana, to investigate the murder. While there, Castiel, a fallen angel, joins them in the hunt. Over the course of the investigation, whilst posing as FBI agents, four more bodies show up with increasing brutality in the wounds. After many twists and a lot of questions, they finally figure out what’s killing the men of the town and, after a lot of struggle, kill it and free the town from it’s horror.
The way the novel’s written, you only see from the eyes of outside parties a few times. For most of the book it switches from Sam to Dean to Castiel in a random sequence. This is interesting because you get to see how each views the others, but they never show what they think of themselves. Through most of their thoughts it with the concern of the others and never about themselves. It really helps to develop the characters and their personalities further.
I also like how it dealt with its themes of self control and PTSD. With the Mark of Cain, comes the urge to kill everything and as time goes on, the craving to spill blood gets stronger. For the safety of himself and everybody around him, Dean has to constantly keep himself in check and think every move through in fear that just one misstep can lead to the Mark taking control of him: much like children growing up and learning self control. When we learn the background of the monster, we learn that her father had PTSD from being captured by the japanese in World War 2 and having to be the assistant of a psychopathic doctor. He was forced to do brutal things to pregnant women in the camp and when he escaped he never talked about it and only wrote about his experiences in a journal.
I would highly recommend this book to any fan of the TV show. It’s the thirteenth book in the fan series written and unless you’ve seen the show it is hard to understand some of the points of discussion in it.
All in all it is a very good book that deals with hard themes and is well written.
The way the novel’s written, you only see from the eyes of outside parties a few times. For most of the book it switches from Sam to Dean to Castiel in a random sequence. This is interesting because you get to see how each views the others, but they never show what they think of themselves. Through most of their thoughts it with the concern of the others and never about themselves. It really helps to develop the characters and their personalities further.
I also like how it dealt with its themes of self control and PTSD. With the Mark of Cain, comes the urge to kill everything and as time goes on, the craving to spill blood gets stronger. For the safety of himself and everybody around him, Dean has to constantly keep himself in check and think every move through in fear that just one misstep can lead to the Mark taking control of him: much like children growing up and learning self control. When we learn the background of the monster, we learn that her father had PTSD from being captured by the japanese in World War 2 and having to be the assistant of a psychopathic doctor. He was forced to do brutal things to pregnant women in the camp and when he escaped he never talked about it and only wrote about his experiences in a journal.
I would highly recommend this book to any fan of the TV show. It’s the thirteenth book in the fan series written and unless you’ve seen the show it is hard to understand some of the points of discussion in it.
All in all it is a very good book that deals with hard themes and is well written.
January 22, 2021
Cold Fire is book thirteen in the series of TV Tie-in novels from the CW show Supernatural, and is written by John Passarella. It takes place during season ten between episodes 12 (About a Boy) and 13 (Halt & Catch Fire).
Cold Fire begins with the Winchester brothers in the middle of a monster hunt, going up against a Chimera. This only serves one purpose, to explain to the reader Dean’s struggle with the Mark of Cain. Unfortunately, this issue is frequently referenced throughout the rest of the novel, and it becomes a bit repetitive and tedious. It’s doubtful that readers need such a constant reminder of Dean’s plight, especially when it’s not adding any real depth to the story.
After dispatching the Chimera and surrounded by dead-end leads on the Mark of Cain issue, Sam suggests a distraction from current events by taking a trip to Braden Heights, Indiana. With assistance from Castiel, Sam and Dean check out a strange animal attack in which the victim has been disembowelled and had his eyes removed, only to discover that there’s been numerous other attacks of a similar nature around the same town.
Once the main story finally got going I found it to be really engaging and interesting, with a unique monster that I don’t ever remember the Winchester’s battling before. It kept me curious all the way to the end, keeping turning pages trying to figure out just what was going on and how the boys would finally stop the creature. I also enjoyed the fact that Castiel accompanies Sam and Dean on this hunt, adding an extra angle to the overall story.
Aside from the repetitive references to the Mark of Cain, I think Cold Fire is one of the more enjoyable Supernatural Tie-in novels to date at 3 out of 5 stars. I liked the main storyline and could easily visualise this as a short TV episode. Although with a large cast of characters it’s a bit tricky at times keeping track of everyone, and it was overly descriptive in some places, such as with the Mark of Cain scenes or while introducing minor characters or plot points, but otherwise a riveting read.
Cold Fire begins with the Winchester brothers in the middle of a monster hunt, going up against a Chimera. This only serves one purpose, to explain to the reader Dean’s struggle with the Mark of Cain. Unfortunately, this issue is frequently referenced throughout the rest of the novel, and it becomes a bit repetitive and tedious. It’s doubtful that readers need such a constant reminder of Dean’s plight, especially when it’s not adding any real depth to the story.
After dispatching the Chimera and surrounded by dead-end leads on the Mark of Cain issue, Sam suggests a distraction from current events by taking a trip to Braden Heights, Indiana. With assistance from Castiel, Sam and Dean check out a strange animal attack in which the victim has been disembowelled and had his eyes removed, only to discover that there’s been numerous other attacks of a similar nature around the same town.
Once the main story finally got going I found it to be really engaging and interesting, with a unique monster that I don’t ever remember the Winchester’s battling before. It kept me curious all the way to the end, keeping turning pages trying to figure out just what was going on and how the boys would finally stop the creature. I also enjoyed the fact that Castiel accompanies Sam and Dean on this hunt, adding an extra angle to the overall story.
Aside from the repetitive references to the Mark of Cain, I think Cold Fire is one of the more enjoyable Supernatural Tie-in novels to date at 3 out of 5 stars. I liked the main storyline and could easily visualise this as a short TV episode. Although with a large cast of characters it’s a bit tricky at times keeping track of everyone, and it was overly descriptive in some places, such as with the Mark of Cain scenes or while introducing minor characters or plot points, but otherwise a riveting read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2018
🖥Supernatural is my all time favourite tv shows because it depicts a lot of the creatures the main characters Sam and Dean Winchester hunt from old folklore or myth pretty much real and that the show can be full of laughs, tears and love.
👻 I got this book because other then that Supernatural is my favourite show is that I love reading books that can intrigue myself. Along with that seeing that they’re novels based on the show pretty much set me into it.
🤘🏻This book was an amazing depiction of the show. It decrypted sam and deans brotherly love and care for each other and showed their normal hunting lives. It had a different creature then what the tv show shows which was both a Langsuir And a Pontianak.
📖 My rating of this book is an outstanding 10/10 or 5 stars 🌟
📖 I have 2 other Supernatural books which are called Mythmaker by Tim Waggoner that I’m starting soon and Heart Of the Dragon by Keith DeCandido
🧥My favourite quotes from this book is when Dean calls the creature “Tentacle Tessa” and Deans most used saying “Gank”
👥 Id recommend this book to anyone who watches the show and enjoys it. Anyone who reads a lot and enjoys reading and for anyone who believes in these beings that Sam and Dean hunt and or speak of.
👻 I got this book because other then that Supernatural is my favourite show is that I love reading books that can intrigue myself. Along with that seeing that they’re novels based on the show pretty much set me into it.
🤘🏻This book was an amazing depiction of the show. It decrypted sam and deans brotherly love and care for each other and showed their normal hunting lives. It had a different creature then what the tv show shows which was both a Langsuir And a Pontianak.
📖 My rating of this book is an outstanding 10/10 or 5 stars 🌟
📖 I have 2 other Supernatural books which are called Mythmaker by Tim Waggoner that I’m starting soon and Heart Of the Dragon by Keith DeCandido
🧥My favourite quotes from this book is when Dean calls the creature “Tentacle Tessa” and Deans most used saying “Gank”
👥 Id recommend this book to anyone who watches the show and enjoys it. Anyone who reads a lot and enjoys reading and for anyone who believes in these beings that Sam and Dean hunt and or speak of.
November 4, 2021
Set in the 10th season of Supernatural, the boys and Cass are in Braden Heights, Indiana to investigate some unknown force dismembering fathers to be and gouging out their eyes. Promising story line poor delivery. The story begins with Sam and Dean finishing up a different hunt with a Chimera, then the next chapters containing the deaths of two men and a very pointless scene with a construction worker as he is never mentioned again any where in the book. Finally the boys get involved and begin investigating. As a long time fan of the show the actual investigation didn't feel like it was Sam and Dean as it took them longer to figure out what was attacking the men, usually Sam and Dean finish one or two interviews and they hit up the research to get more information right away, Especially with Cass joining them on a hunt Sam would have done research way before he actually did in this book (which was after five men had already died) Dean and Cass would have continued gathering information at the crime scenes.
Once they figured out what was going on and figured out a way to kill the supernatural creature, the whole end battle seemed rushed as if the author had spent more time planning the lead up but didn't really have an ending and just threw it together last minute.
Once they figured out what was going on and figured out a way to kill the supernatural creature, the whole end battle seemed rushed as if the author had spent more time planning the lead up but didn't really have an ending and just threw it together last minute.
February 24, 2019
In an attempt to get their minds off The Mark of Cain on Dean's arm, the Winchester brothers and Castiel take a case in the town of Brighton Heights where several men are being attacked by something that is disemboweling them and stealing their eyes.
The case turns weirder when it becomes evident that the men who were killed either had pregnant wives or wives who'd just given birth to their babies. Castiel and the Winchesters are puzzled about what it could be doing the killings but soon learn of the tragic history of one of the families of the men killed and its tie into what's going on.
The Hunters eventually track down their 'creature' and put an end to its violent reign.
Such a good book. Filled with all the things I love most about the tv episodes and previous Supernatural books I've read: angst, excitement, drama, supernatural, etc.
The case turns weirder when it becomes evident that the men who were killed either had pregnant wives or wives who'd just given birth to their babies. Castiel and the Winchesters are puzzled about what it could be doing the killings but soon learn of the tragic history of one of the families of the men killed and its tie into what's going on.
The Hunters eventually track down their 'creature' and put an end to its violent reign.
Such a good book. Filled with all the things I love most about the tv episodes and previous Supernatural books I've read: angst, excitement, drama, supernatural, etc.
June 22, 2021
I had read John Passarella's previous two SPN books and found them to be among the very best in the series. So I was surprised to find Cold Fire begin with the most ridiculous scenario the Winchesters have ever been in, fighting the silliest idea of the legendary Chimera, with some of the most trite verbiage used in the opening chapters. And this wasn't even part of the main plot line.
Fortunately, not too long after the main story line gets started, the book picks up, and before long you're swept up in the story. Although, there were times where the writing was just plat and uninspired, and I am again surprised by this since I recall Passarella's first two SPN books to have been written much better.
Anyway, mostly resembled a decent SPN episode. 3.5/5*
Fortunately, not too long after the main story line gets started, the book picks up, and before long you're swept up in the story. Although, there were times where the writing was just plat and uninspired, and I am again surprised by this since I recall Passarella's first two SPN books to have been written much better.
Anyway, mostly resembled a decent SPN episode. 3.5/5*
August 9, 2025
okay so this took me way longer to finish than it should've because i didn't pick it back up for months. i really wanted to like this, and i told myself i wasn't even gonna rate it since i didn't rate the other supernatural book ive read, but this one was so much less engaging i had to. to me it felt way too convoluted with how many different people's storylines were involved. maybe this is something that would've played out better on screen. no hate to this author because there were some parts, particularly describing the horror of the monsters, that were actually really cool, and i also liked how he conveyed castiel and his care for the pregnant women. but yeah this one was just hard to get through unfortunately
August 29, 2019
I really like this supernatural book series where it's a break from the major villain/obstacle in the season to go on a "regular" hunt. I really like the progression of the monster reveal, I love to problem solve and so trying to figure out the monster as the book went was a lot of fun. I really liked seeing Castiel and Dean deal/try to overcome their personal demons/guilts.
Cas is my fav character in the show so reading about his interactions made me chuckle and was a light in this solemn book full of single grieving mothers and dead fathers. This is set in season 10 so the Mark of Cain is in the story as well.
Cas is my fav character in the show so reading about his interactions made me chuckle and was a light in this solemn book full of single grieving mothers and dead fathers. This is set in season 10 so the Mark of Cain is in the story as well.
March 26, 2023
This is a story of revenge, unimaginable loss and trauma woven through the threads of family and what it truly means to be united by blood.
Sally's arrival in Braedan Heights alongside the disturbance of a shallow grave kick-start a chain of events so bizarre and terrifying that just makes the origin of the pontianak so much more gutwrenchingly awful that it makes you question the validity of family.
Yet perhaps it was those ties at work to bring her back to the scene of the crime to find resolution and peace at last for the pontianak and the lost girls. For when family goes rogue it is only blood ties that can heal.
Sally's arrival in Braedan Heights alongside the disturbance of a shallow grave kick-start a chain of events so bizarre and terrifying that just makes the origin of the pontianak so much more gutwrenchingly awful that it makes you question the validity of family.
Yet perhaps it was those ties at work to bring her back to the scene of the crime to find resolution and peace at last for the pontianak and the lost girls. For when family goes rogue it is only blood ties that can heal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2025
I think this is one of the best of the Supernatural books that I have read so far! It takes place while Dean has the mark of Cain so it gives a little insight into his thought process throughout the entire book on how he feels. And with the addition of Castiel being a constant in this book, it’ll make any SPN fam happy.
My only complaint is this book is so sad. I feel like the show may show you one person who gets attacked by a monster but this books had multiple chapters of victims with no happy ending. It genuinely upset me that i had to stop reading at several points. It also didnt have the humor that the show itself has which i think would have helped.
My only complaint is this book is so sad. I feel like the show may show you one person who gets attacked by a monster but this books had multiple chapters of victims with no happy ending. It genuinely upset me that i had to stop reading at several points. It also didnt have the humor that the show itself has which i think would have helped.
April 19, 2020
Monster of the week and action focused, not a lot of character development, but I'm sure there are restrictions when an author is writing something that has to fit within a certain season, this one being season 10. I found the monsters interesting and different from what we've seen on the show. I really liked characterization of Castiel, and him dealing with his feelings concerning Claire. They only drawback is that there are a lot of side characters, and after awhile I started to confuse who was who. Overall, a fun read.
October 5, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️ — It was okay.
I picked up this book in hopes that an easy read would get me out of my reading slump. Instead I was more bored and skimming just to make it through. I don’t know if it was the story itself or if it feels like the Sam and Dean I know from the show. Could also be that I was distracted from focusing on the book.
I would recommend this book to any Supernatural fan who is looking for a medium-paced, dark, and mysterious read.
Trigger warnings include: death, violence, and pregnancy.
I picked up this book in hopes that an easy read would get me out of my reading slump. Instead I was more bored and skimming just to make it through. I don’t know if it was the story itself or if it feels like the Sam and Dean I know from the show. Could also be that I was distracted from focusing on the book.
I would recommend this book to any Supernatural fan who is looking for a medium-paced, dark, and mysterious read.
Trigger warnings include: death, violence, and pregnancy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews