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Thaumaturge #1
The Dead
“She’s dead,” I said to him harshly, and he made a tiny, breathless noise. The old man put his hand on the boy’s shoulder, and the girl gave another sob, her face crumpling like a tissue.
“But I can fix it,” I said, and smiled.
Ebron White has plenty of skeletons in his closet. Being gay in a remote ranching town is no picnic, but that’s nothing compared to Ebron’s biggest secret: he has the power to raise the dead. His life is complicated but so far he’s managing. He’s got a respectable business, an undead (though unreliable) boyfriend and most folks in his little rural community are willing to live and let live.
But a coven of witches showing up in town can only mean trouble. They’re entirely too interested in him and as the bodies pile up, Ebron is starting to realize that the dead are the least of his worries. It’s the live ones he has to survive
“But I can fix it,” I said, and smiled.
Ebron White has plenty of skeletons in his closet. Being gay in a remote ranching town is no picnic, but that’s nothing compared to Ebron’s biggest secret: he has the power to raise the dead. His life is complicated but so far he’s managing. He’s got a respectable business, an undead (though unreliable) boyfriend and most folks in his little rural community are willing to live and let live.
But a coven of witches showing up in town can only mean trouble. They’re entirely too interested in him and as the bodies pile up, Ebron is starting to realize that the dead are the least of his worries. It’s the live ones he has to survive
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 22, 2021
And the award for the unsexiest sex scenes in a book ever goes to......
well, I did read a book once where an alien ejaculated gobs of green gelatin....
But, no, that was sexier.
Yes, this book wins!
I thought the book had a good set-up with the main guy being able to resurrect the dead and having a vampire boyfriend, but there were problems. Lots of them.
The "boyfriend" was rarely visible in the book and only had a few paragraphs of actually interacting with the MC, and there was another love interest that felt odd. I never got any chemistry between any of the characters really. And then the sex scenes. They were awful! Like if someone decided to write out the sex between two teenagers at bible camp. A lot of strange guilt, shame, resentments, and fumbling awkwardness, along with every bodily discomfort available. I really really don't want that kind of sex in a 'romantic' book. They even continually turned-down sex with each other. Again, not typically a book character thing.
Look, we don't read stories for the worst parts of IRL-shit. We read them for a better version of IRL. Come on!
I would have preferred the Fanta with all of its orangey glory. I might have even preferred a Mountain Dew over the sex in this book. A Mountain Dew!
Then there was the weird bitchiness of our MC, and everyone else really. I mean, sure there are nefarious dealings going on, but people could still be polite. I bet they're bitchy because their sex lives suck so much. That will make anyone cranky.
Along with the fact that I never connected with any of the characters, and the story got a little convoluted and muddled, it also ended in a cliffhanger with a lot of unanswered questions. The problem with that is that I don't feel invested enough in any of these people to want to read the next book. I just don't care.
well, I did read a book once where an alien ejaculated gobs of green gelatin....
But, no, that was sexier.
Yes, this book wins!
I thought the book had a good set-up with the main guy being able to resurrect the dead and having a vampire boyfriend, but there were problems. Lots of them.
The "boyfriend" was rarely visible in the book and only had a few paragraphs of actually interacting with the MC, and there was another love interest that felt odd. I never got any chemistry between any of the characters really. And then the sex scenes. They were awful! Like if someone decided to write out the sex between two teenagers at bible camp. A lot of strange guilt, shame, resentments, and fumbling awkwardness, along with every bodily discomfort available. I really really don't want that kind of sex in a 'romantic' book. They even continually turned-down sex with each other. Again, not typically a book character thing.
Look, we don't read stories for the worst parts of IRL-shit. We read them for a better version of IRL. Come on!
I would have preferred the Fanta with all of its orangey glory. I might have even preferred a Mountain Dew over the sex in this book. A Mountain Dew!
Then there was the weird bitchiness of our MC, and everyone else really. I mean, sure there are nefarious dealings going on, but people could still be polite. I bet they're bitchy because their sex lives suck so much. That will make anyone cranky.
Along with the fact that I never connected with any of the characters, and the story got a little convoluted and muddled, it also ended in a cliffhanger with a lot of unanswered questions. The problem with that is that I don't feel invested enough in any of these people to want to read the next book. I just don't care.
May 16, 2018
Wow, this book was all kinds of entertaining.
At nearly 30, Ebron lives in very rural Montana, runs his herb shop, brews tea and, oh yeah, occasionally brings the dead back to life.
At 17 Ebron met Leo, a vampire, and they have been kinda sorta friends with benefits ever since. I swear, Leo made me SO MAD at times, seeing how Ebron was in love with him, and Leo seeming not to care at all.
I was still hopelessly, agonizingly in love with him and he still didn't care. I was pushing thirty now, still living in a dirt bag trailer hoping for a pity fuck whenever he showed up, which, let's be honest, was less and less often. One of these days, it was going to be the last time. One of these times, he would walk out the door and never came back. I wondered how many months and years I would go, waiting for him. How long I would keep hoping, alone with no one to touch?This story was most decidedly not predominantly a romance, at least not as far as my definition was concerned. But towards the end, both men did open up a bit in regards to their feelings, and some of the circumstances that were keeping them apart, which I enjoyed.
Honestly, I'm hoping the next book in the series takes their relationship to another level. Something more permanent and fulfilling for them both.
What can I say? Romance is my thing. ;- )
In this book, however, it was all about the intrigue surrounding a coven of witches who are killing locals in order to complete a very complex spell. One where Ebron's ability to resurrect the dead played a central role.
This book kept me engaged from beginning to end, with my only niggle being that the concluding "final showdown" scene felt a bit rushed.
Okay, sorry, second niggle. Everyone in this story was all, "NO, we can't involve the police!" Uhh, people are getting murdered. Why not? Ebron had already helped the local sheriff with a death in the past. His secret was out of the bag. So again, why not???
One thing I should note is that, although Ebron and Leo were not officially 'together', and Leo had told Ebron for a decade to find someone to be with, Ebron did have sex with someone else on-page.
It felt like cheating to me, even if only on Ebron's genuinely-deep feelings for Leo, so that sort of bugged me, but I did understand why it happened. Anyway, I thought it worth mentioning as a potential trigger.
The level of steam was moderate and the melodrama was kept to a minimum, so if you're looking for an occult-adjacent story with lots of intrigue and a bit of betrayal, I really loved this story and would highly recommend it.
4.5 stars.
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May 6, 2017
For a man who raises the dead and has a vampire boyfriend, Ebron White’s life is pretty routine. Sure, he occasionally stumbles across a dead body, but there really are not that many of them to be had in his little corner of Montana. Most of his days consist of pining for his (sorta-kinda) boyfriend, and running his herb shop. Not exactly something you would stop the presses for. And then the witches come to town and his life gets all kinds of interesting. The kind of interesting that Ebron, frankly, could have done without. But when you are the kind of guy that raises the dead, and the dead seem to be in unusual supply, there is not a lot that you can do about it.
I really loved the first two thirds of this book. The setting was great, the characters were all interesting, and I loved the whole raising the dead thing that Ebron has going on. Even the whole hot/cold thing that Ebron has with Leo (his vampire lover/best friend) was good. It wasn’t you typical relationship, and I find that is something I’m really in the mood for lately.
I liked how natural all the magical elements of this book felt. It felt like an extension of real life, and not an intrusion as it sometimes can be. Because Ebron really has no clue why or really how he does what he does, we are left a little in the dark about how magic functions in this world, but that too really worked. I think it would have dragged things down if it had long discussions about why certain things work the way they do. The lack of knowledge leaves us on an even footing with Ebron, and as we get to know these characters and this world more, I have a feeling we will learn right along with him.
The mystery of the witches worked well. I never quite knew who were the bad guys and who were the good guys (though there were certainly some characters that were pretty easy to slam black hats on). And Marcus’ half-truths and distrust, coupled with his lust for Ebron certainly made it all the more complex.
Oh, yes. Marcus. What ever shall I say about him?
Well, he certainly was well written. The complex is he/isn’t he was really well played out. I just really wish he had kept his mitts off of Ebron. Because, yes, Ebron is hot, but he is Leo’s. Sort of.
Which is actually one of my major issues with this book. Leo and Ebron have this ‘open relationship’ that has some pretty vague boundaries. I wish it could have been better defined, because the whole thing with Marcus really felt like cheating. No matter how many times Ebron (and Leo) say that he is free to sleep with anyone he chooses, I honestly felt like both of them really knew how it would feel. And that made the whole scene with Marcus kind of icky for me. I’m good with open relationships for characters, but I need better ground rules than was presented here, if I’m going to get over my issues with cheating.
From that moment on…I was just a little less connected to the story. Well, the willingly walking into an ambush (with no plan) didn’t exactly help matters, but Marcus presented a whole host of problems to me and it never felt really settled. It may be a bit more realistic about how relationships are, but it just didn’t work for me.
For the most part this is a very good story. The magical elements, as well as most of the personal relationships (be they of love, friendship, or community) really made this story come off the page. And since this is only book one in the series, I’m interested in seeing where this story is going. Especially with what is up with Leo.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
I really loved the first two thirds of this book. The setting was great, the characters were all interesting, and I loved the whole raising the dead thing that Ebron has going on. Even the whole hot/cold thing that Ebron has with Leo (his vampire lover/best friend) was good. It wasn’t you typical relationship, and I find that is something I’m really in the mood for lately.
I liked how natural all the magical elements of this book felt. It felt like an extension of real life, and not an intrusion as it sometimes can be. Because Ebron really has no clue why or really how he does what he does, we are left a little in the dark about how magic functions in this world, but that too really worked. I think it would have dragged things down if it had long discussions about why certain things work the way they do. The lack of knowledge leaves us on an even footing with Ebron, and as we get to know these characters and this world more, I have a feeling we will learn right along with him.
The mystery of the witches worked well. I never quite knew who were the bad guys and who were the good guys (though there were certainly some characters that were pretty easy to slam black hats on). And Marcus’ half-truths and distrust, coupled with his lust for Ebron certainly made it all the more complex.
Oh, yes. Marcus. What ever shall I say about him?
Well, he certainly was well written. The complex is he/isn’t he was really well played out. I just really wish he had kept his mitts off of Ebron. Because, yes, Ebron is hot, but he is Leo’s. Sort of.
Which is actually one of my major issues with this book. Leo and Ebron have this ‘open relationship’ that has some pretty vague boundaries. I wish it could have been better defined, because the whole thing with Marcus really felt like cheating. No matter how many times Ebron (and Leo) say that he is free to sleep with anyone he chooses, I honestly felt like both of them really knew how it would feel. And that made the whole scene with Marcus kind of icky for me. I’m good with open relationships for characters, but I need better ground rules than was presented here, if I’m going to get over my issues with cheating.
From that moment on…I was just a little less connected to the story. Well, the willingly walking into an ambush (with no plan) didn’t exactly help matters, but Marcus presented a whole host of problems to me and it never felt really settled. It may be a bit more realistic about how relationships are, but it just didn’t work for me.
For the most part this is a very good story. The magical elements, as well as most of the personal relationships (be they of love, friendship, or community) really made this story come off the page. And since this is only book one in the series, I’m interested in seeing where this story is going. Especially with what is up with Leo.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
May 10, 2016
review soon!
May 17, 2018
I enjoyed the hell outta this ride and read it in one sitting.
BUT....this book also frustrated the hell outta me.
Ebron is in his late twenties and lives in Nowhere, Montana. He can also raise the dead, an ability he learned about by chance. It's not something he does often, after all - how many dead bodies can one come across in Bumfuck, Montana?
He also has Leo in his life. Leo is a vampire who's been his best friend and lover for ten years. Only problem? Leo always leaves, with no notice, and comes back weeks/months later.
So I get the doormat behavior here. Ebron has zero other gays in his town. He's in love with Leo. What other opportunities will he have if he doesn't drive to another town? I know. I know. He will be so lonely and isn't this better than no romantic interaction at all?
I set aside my judgy thoughts for him a little under these circumstances. But come on? He knows nothing about Leo. No history, family ties, what Leo does when he's away. He does know that Leo isn't faithful to him in the times between.
Ok, judgy is back. Stop being a doormat!
The majority of the story is taken by a group of witches who show up to Ebron's little town and havoc begins. And that part was entertaining, honestly.
Being in Ebron's head was also refreshing. Other than the above doormat behavior, his thoughts were organic, and his character was written well.
But the romance? Ugh. There is no true redemption here. I don't like Leo anymore by the end of the book than I did in the beginning. He's still dragging Ebron along. Monogamy was mentioned, but nothing was decided. Ebron still doesn't know anything about him. I'm feeling let down.
I'm ok with mystery, suspense, or other things to take up a lot of page time if the romance pays off in the end.
And it didn't here.
BUT....this book also frustrated the hell outta me.
Ebron is in his late twenties and lives in Nowhere, Montana. He can also raise the dead, an ability he learned about by chance. It's not something he does often, after all - how many dead bodies can one come across in Bumfuck, Montana?
He also has Leo in his life. Leo is a vampire who's been his best friend and lover for ten years. Only problem? Leo always leaves, with no notice, and comes back weeks/months later.
So I get the doormat behavior here. Ebron has zero other gays in his town. He's in love with Leo. What other opportunities will he have if he doesn't drive to another town? I know. I know. He will be so lonely and isn't this better than no romantic interaction at all?
I set aside my judgy thoughts for him a little under these circumstances. But come on? He knows nothing about Leo. No history, family ties, what Leo does when he's away. He does know that Leo isn't faithful to him in the times between.
Ok, judgy is back. Stop being a doormat!
The majority of the story is taken by a group of witches who show up to Ebron's little town and havoc begins. And that part was entertaining, honestly.
Being in Ebron's head was also refreshing. Other than the above doormat behavior, his thoughts were organic, and his character was written well.
But the romance? Ugh. There is no true redemption here. I don't like Leo anymore by the end of the book than I did in the beginning. He's still dragging Ebron along. Monogamy was mentioned, but nothing was decided. Ebron still doesn't know anything about him. I'm feeling let down.
I'm ok with mystery, suspense, or other things to take up a lot of page time if the romance pays off in the end.
And it didn't here.
October 16, 2017
4.5 Stars!
I debated between 4 and 5 for this one, but finally decided to round up for the sole reason that I wasn't sure who to trust in this book. Are they bad, are they good? Are they lying, scheming, telling half truths? That uncertainty kept me engaged and earned a higher rating in my book. Well, done there.
Things I liked:
1. Not knowing who to trust. Frustrating, but it makes for good drama.
2. Ebron, an MC. The humblest necromancer ever. He wants little in life, save to help those who seek his help. Small town man who is in love with a vampire.
3. Leo, an MC. A vampire who comes to visit and stay with Ebron every few months. Ebron has helped him control his urges to kill his food.
4. Marcus, an MC. Is he a good witch or a bad witch? His character was very skillfully written. He has the hots for Ebron, or is it all a game?
5. Great set up to the story and conflict with the witches.
6. Good writing.
What could have been better:
1. The climax was a bit confusing--lots of things going on and lots of people involved.
2. Corvin, a witch. His character felt a bit flat and trope-ish.
3. Some secondary characters seemed prominent in the first bird of the book, but later dropped out.
4. Ebron, for god's sake, just let Leo bite you already!!
This was my first book by this author and I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I debated between 4 and 5 for this one, but finally decided to round up for the sole reason that I wasn't sure who to trust in this book. Are they bad, are they good? Are they lying, scheming, telling half truths? That uncertainty kept me engaged and earned a higher rating in my book. Well, done there.
Things I liked:
1. Not knowing who to trust. Frustrating, but it makes for good drama.
2. Ebron, an MC. The humblest necromancer ever. He wants little in life, save to help those who seek his help. Small town man who is in love with a vampire.
3. Leo, an MC. A vampire who comes to visit and stay with Ebron every few months. Ebron has helped him control his urges to kill his food.
4. Marcus, an MC. Is he a good witch or a bad witch? His character was very skillfully written. He has the hots for Ebron, or is it all a game?
5. Great set up to the story and conflict with the witches.
6. Good writing.
What could have been better:
1. The climax was a bit confusing--lots of things going on and lots of people involved.
2. Corvin, a witch. His character felt a bit flat and trope-ish.
3. Some secondary characters seemed prominent in the first bird of the book, but later dropped out.
4. Ebron, for god's sake, just let Leo bite you already!!
This was my first book by this author and I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 4, 2021
2.5 stars
Don’t mind my rating, it has more to do with me and my preferences than with the book itself.
Although the book wasn’t perfect and surely needed some editing.
And likable characters. And a romance between the main couple, instead of one between the protagonist and a secondary character with more page time than who should’ve been the other MC.
At least I think the vampire was supposed to be the other MC. The blurb sure made it sound like he would be. Or maybe it didn’t and I just assumed.
Anyway, it was Leo, the undead and unreliable boyfriend (see the blurb) who insisted on an open relationship with Ebron, who saved the book for me, at least as far as the characters were concerned.
If you know me, little old-school, may-I-have-couples-in-my-books-exclusive-even-in-their-sleep-if-it’s-possible-please me, this should tell you a lot about my opinion on the other characters.
Let’s talk about Ebron, the MC.
I liked him at the beginning, I even felt sorry for him and the fact that he didn’t have the courage to confront Leo about his disappearing acts. Then Marcus happened and I realized that Ebron is kind of a jerk and kind of pathetic and at times I even questioned his sanity, although I’m pretty sure that has more to do with the writing than Ebron himself.
There are other things that bothered me, specifically the lack of consistency between Ebron’s thoughts about Marcus and the way he acted. He would remind himself that he couldn’t trust Marcus one moment, only to act like he trusted him a moment later. It made it seem like he had mental problems, but I think it was actually due to the general narrative issues.
Sometimes the way the characters talked and interacted felt slightly disjointed, with questions and comments that seemed to have little to do with what was going on at the moment.
You might wonder why the 3 stars then, since I seem to have only criticized this book so far. Well, the reason is that I actually enjoyed the plot a lot and the “idea” of the book and I’m aware that most of my issues have to do with the fact that I wanted a more traditional romance and relationship development and that’s not the book’s fault.
And then there’s Leo, of course.
Don’t mind my rating, it has more to do with me and my preferences than with the book itself.
Although the book wasn’t perfect and surely needed some editing.
And likable characters. And a romance between the main couple, instead of one between the protagonist and a secondary character with more page time than who should’ve been the other MC.
At least I think the vampire was supposed to be the other MC. The blurb sure made it sound like he would be. Or maybe it didn’t and I just assumed.
Anyway, it was Leo, the undead and unreliable boyfriend (see the blurb) who insisted on an open relationship with Ebron, who saved the book for me, at least as far as the characters were concerned.
If you know me, little old-school, may-I-have-couples-in-my-books-exclusive-even-in-their-sleep-if-it’s-possible-please me, this should tell you a lot about my opinion on the other characters.
Let’s talk about Ebron, the MC.
I liked him at the beginning, I even felt sorry for him and the fact that he didn’t have the courage to confront Leo about his disappearing acts. Then Marcus happened and I realized that Ebron is kind of a jerk and kind of pathetic and at times I even questioned his sanity, although I’m pretty sure that has more to do with the writing than Ebron himself.
There are other things that bothered me, specifically the lack of consistency between Ebron’s thoughts about Marcus and the way he acted. He would remind himself that he couldn’t trust Marcus one moment, only to act like he trusted him a moment later. It made it seem like he had mental problems, but I think it was actually due to the general narrative issues.
Sometimes the way the characters talked and interacted felt slightly disjointed, with questions and comments that seemed to have little to do with what was going on at the moment.
You might wonder why the 3 stars then, since I seem to have only criticized this book so far. Well, the reason is that I actually enjoyed the plot a lot and the “idea” of the book and I’m aware that most of my issues have to do with the fact that I wanted a more traditional romance and relationship development and that’s not the book’s fault.
And then there’s Leo, of course.
December 10, 2017
In a word: Awesome.
I'm trying to put together a real review, but it's slow going. Why are the best books always harder to review than the worst?
I'm trying to put together a real review, but it's slow going. Why are the best books always harder to review than the worst?
April 26, 2016
** RE-READ 2016/04/25 **
<< YES! BOOK 2 / Boneyard is on pre-order now!! >>
What can I say?
1.) I abso-fucking-lutely adore Ebron.
1.1) I also abso-fucking-lutely adore Leo.
2.) Leo is a bit of an asshat.
3.) I still love Leo.
4.) I abso-fucking-lutely dislike Marcus.
5.) I wish Marcus would’ve gone to hell the first day he arrived in town.
6.) I know Marcus was needed for the whole Ebron loves Leo plot, but I wish he hadn’t been there, wrapping Ebron around his finger like he did. *gag*
7.) So yeah, I still abso-fucking-lutely dislike Marcus.
8.) I love Leo’s mysteriousness.
9.) It upset me greatly that Leo was „gone“ half the book :(
10.) Cody (Ebron’s cousin) amused me, though I believe he wasn’t meant to be literally funny, right? Anyway— liked the guy.
11.) I love how real, human, Ebron felt (everything about him— from his thoughts, actions and well, his voice ).
12.) Oh and I abso-fucking-lutely love the story! ;)
Ebron’s gift is really intense— can’t wait to see more!
I absolutely love this book and its characters. It was so much fun! Highly enjoyable. I’m not getting paid praising the shit out of The Dead (love how weird that sounds, eh?) but I want to (praise it) because, because I loved the flawless, addictive writing—Ebron’s voice—and truly, truly want to see more of Ebron AND Leo. Together. Please. Pretty Please. I’ll gladly beg, if that’s what it takes for them to get their Happy Ending.
I just really wish there was more in the end; it felt cut off, leaving me with a bitter taste and a dull ache in my chest :(
I NEED the follow up rightbloodynow!
<< YES! BOOK 2 / Boneyard is on pre-order now!! >>
What can I say?
1.) I abso-fucking-lutely adore Ebron.
1.1) I also abso-fucking-lutely adore Leo.
2.) Leo is a bit of an asshat.
3.) I still love Leo.
4.) I abso-fucking-lutely dislike Marcus.
5.) I wish Marcus would’ve gone to hell the first day he arrived in town.
6.) I know Marcus was needed for the whole Ebron loves Leo plot, but I wish he hadn’t been there, wrapping Ebron around his finger like he did. *gag*
7.) So yeah, I still abso-fucking-lutely dislike Marcus.
8.) I love Leo’s mysteriousness.
9.) It upset me greatly that Leo was „gone“ half the book :(
10.) Cody (Ebron’s cousin) amused me, though I believe he wasn’t meant to be literally funny, right? Anyway— liked the guy.
11.) I love how real, human, Ebron felt (everything about him— from his thoughts, actions and well, his voice ).
12.) Oh and I abso-fucking-lutely love the story! ;)
Ebron’s gift is really intense— can’t wait to see more!
I absolutely love this book and its characters. It was so much fun! Highly enjoyable. I’m not getting paid praising the shit out of The Dead (love how weird that sounds, eh?) but I want to (praise it) because, because I loved the flawless, addictive writing—Ebron’s voice—and truly, truly want to see more of Ebron AND Leo. Together. Please. Pretty Please. I’ll gladly beg, if that’s what it takes for them to get their Happy Ending.
I just really wish there was more in the end; it felt cut off, leaving me with a bitter taste and a dull ache in my chest :(
I NEED the follow up rightbloodynow!
March 8, 2018
Solid start for the series. Unique storyline, rich atmosphere, and interesting characters. I would like to have seen more world building and a bit more character development. I wasn’t sure I was going to like Ebron and Leo, but I was quite fond of them by the end of the story. Looking forward to the next in the series, Boneyard.
Want to read
September 25, 2017Currently free on amazon! (25/9/2017)
Want to read
August 7, 2015Hmm..the power to raise the dead + vampires sounds very Laurell K. Hamilton-ish, which could be bad or good. I'll have to check this out.
May 20, 2018
4.5 stars.
October 5, 2017
I liked this book: solid writing, maybe a bit predictable plot, not at all dark as I had expected it (although some descriptions of knife wounds might be problematic for sensitive people). The supernatural element is aptly woven into the small-town life. The relationship between Ebron and Leo is well done, and I liked both of the MCs. Some people have an infidelity issue , but I don't see it as infidelity if your partner is encouraging you to date when he is away for long periods of time.
I've got this for free, but I'm definitely going to buy the next book, I just don't know when I'll read it, given my enormous TBR pile.
I've got this for free, but I'm definitely going to buy the next book, I just don't know when I'll read it, given my enormous TBR pile.
August 24, 2022
3.5 stars
December 29, 2015
My good friend Riina Y.T. recommended this one and I’ve to say that for the most part I truly did enjoy it! Actually, there is only one thing that totally ticked me off about this book that I will discuss through this review.
First you have to meet the main character/s – Ebron, the one who raises the dead and Leo – his vampire-friend-sometimes-lover. They are the main couple here but all the things that transpired in this story centers on Ebron. The main premise involving witches visiting his town brought about some odd and mysterious happenings.
I loved Ebron’s characterization. He’s just a super-chill guy despite his odd occupation as an herbalist and an occasional necromancer. There’s this vibe about him that is absolutely adorable and likable and you’d just feel bad about him at times. Then there’s Leo – I don’t know what his deal with but I love him just the same. They’re great with each other and they are fun together. I just wished that Leo could be more open with Ebron.
Now that thing that’s been bothering me whenever I think about this story – I guess, it’s just a problem for me or depending how you accept things with your books / characters but see, I highly despise cheating. Seriously, there was no cheating here if you want to be technical about it because according to Leo, Ebron could sleep with anyone. What happened with Ebron and Marcus just totally upsetting for me. I don’t know, I thought that even if Leo keep on saying that Ebron could sleep around, it was in the way Leo acted around Ebron that they’re actually a couple (an exclusive whenever Leo’s in town) without them both realizing it. I feel that, that moment tainted my impression on the story. Again, that’s just me. Technically, there was no cheating/ infidelity – since they have some sort of an “open relationship” but it’s still irksome if I’m being honest. I’m seriously hoping that I won’t be seeing Marcus in the next book. Please, Cal – do not torture me…^_^
Going back with the main antagonists – the witches. It was a tad bit predictable at the end of that fiasco but it was still enjoyable. This is Cal Matthew’s first novel and I’m duly impressed by his writing style. The transition with each chapter was great, the characters well-captured and the story as a whole was very consistent from start to finish. Minus the Marcus incident, I’d definitely give this two thumbs up! I’m very much eager for the second book now. Congratulations Cal!
First you have to meet the main character/s – Ebron, the one who raises the dead and Leo – his vampire-friend-sometimes-lover. They are the main couple here but all the things that transpired in this story centers on Ebron. The main premise involving witches visiting his town brought about some odd and mysterious happenings.
I loved Ebron’s characterization. He’s just a super-chill guy despite his odd occupation as an herbalist and an occasional necromancer. There’s this vibe about him that is absolutely adorable and likable and you’d just feel bad about him at times. Then there’s Leo – I don’t know what his deal with but I love him just the same. They’re great with each other and they are fun together. I just wished that Leo could be more open with Ebron.
Now that thing that’s been bothering me whenever I think about this story – I guess, it’s just a problem for me or depending how you accept things with your books / characters but see, I highly despise cheating. Seriously, there was no cheating here if you want to be technical about it because according to Leo, Ebron could sleep with anyone. What happened with Ebron and Marcus just totally upsetting for me. I don’t know, I thought that even if Leo keep on saying that Ebron could sleep around, it was in the way Leo acted around Ebron that they’re actually a couple (an exclusive whenever Leo’s in town) without them both realizing it. I feel that, that moment tainted my impression on the story. Again, that’s just me. Technically, there was no cheating/ infidelity – since they have some sort of an “open relationship” but it’s still irksome if I’m being honest. I’m seriously hoping that I won’t be seeing Marcus in the next book. Please, Cal – do not torture me…^_^
Going back with the main antagonists – the witches. It was a tad bit predictable at the end of that fiasco but it was still enjoyable. This is Cal Matthew’s first novel and I’m duly impressed by his writing style. The transition with each chapter was great, the characters well-captured and the story as a whole was very consistent from start to finish. Minus the Marcus incident, I’d definitely give this two thumbs up! I’m very much eager for the second book now. Congratulations Cal!
October 30, 2017
I’d give it a 2.5 maybe 3 stars rating. Honestly this book has a fantastic premise but sadly fell flat for me. First, typos. I get it. Shit happens and I’m not a world renown writer but there were a few too many typos in this for me ignore. 2nd I absolutely hated the relationship between the main character and his love interest. Hated it. I thought it was poorly developed and made no sense to me. By the end of the book we’re supposed to believe they’re madly in love but all throughout the book, what little of the relationship we do get to see, is borderline abusive. I actually was rooting against the relationship by the end of the book and found myself rather annoyed. I must say I loved that one of the love interests and pivotal character in this story in black. I don’t know if I’ve been looking in the wrong places but in this genre it tends to be strictly white and I appreciate diversity oh so very much. Props for that
January 12, 2018
I’m going to get my one little negative out of the way right off the bat: The sole issue I had with The Dead was all the typos/grammar inconsistencies, which were prolific enough to throw me out of the story again and again. It’s unfortunate because the book itself is a great debut novel, and it’s truly the only shortfall I can note, so if you aren’t bothered by those things, or at least can overlook them, the story itself is unique and drew me in from the start.
Author Cal Matthews has chosen rural Montana as the setting of this series, and it works to good effect. The small-town atmosphere is the perfect contrast to the supernatural scope of the goings-on in Heckerson. The biblical metaphors are there—if you care to look for them—as one might expect in a Jesus/Lazarus themed story, and I love that the town’s name feels like an innocent and sanitized version of the hell it’s becoming for Ebron White. I will also say that if you crave a lot of backstory and world building that answers the whys of Heckerson as a hub for the preternatural, and the hows of the existence of vampires and magic, you won’t find that—maybe that’s for later books—so just suspend your natural curiosity for a bit and enjoy the oddities.
Ebron is a sympathetic narrator, and I liked him so much. We don’t know why he is what he is, just what he does, and I appreciate that air of mystery about him. The true mystery in the story, though, at least for me, is his vampire boyfriend (errr, friend-with-benefits?), Leo. The first-person narration offers us precious little about Leo, only the bits and pieces Ebron chooses to reveal. Leo is more absent than present in Ebron’s life, and they clearly aren’t an exclusive couple, though Ebron wants them to be. He’s in love with the vampire, but there’s a reason Leo disappears for months at a time, and that is a tease-and-a-half I expect to learn more about in coming books.
It’s difficult to categorize this as a Murder Mystery, by the strictest definition, when the victims don’t stay dead, but a mystery it is nonetheless, when a coven of witches blows into town and focuses on Ebron’s tea and herbals shop as a point of their interest. One witch in particular, Marcus, homes in on Ebron, causing some confusion of feelings for the thaumaturgist, and his emotional connection to Leo. If you’re touchy about open relationships and blurred lines, this might be a tricky thing to navigate, but it serves to advance Ebron and Leo’s relationship arc and was the necessary catalyst for Leo to come to terms with his feelings for Ebron.
I loved the mysticism and magic and descriptive narration of the story. It spoke to my Horror-loving ways, but be aware that this being a dark paranormal novel, not so much a romance, things can get a little grizzly and gruesome. Matthews has a knack for bringing her scenes to vivid life, never more so than when a victim is in need of Ebron’s power, as well as during the climactic scene of the story that again evokes some fantastic imagery in Ebron’s ascension. The loose threads at the end of The Dead have me itching to dig into book two, Ebron’s moral dilemma included. He’s compromised, conflicted, and his reputation in Heckerson is beginning to eclipse his privacy. It all adds up to some intriguing fun, and a book I would gladly recommend to anyone who loves the genre.
Reviewed by Lisa at The Novel Approach
Author Cal Matthews has chosen rural Montana as the setting of this series, and it works to good effect. The small-town atmosphere is the perfect contrast to the supernatural scope of the goings-on in Heckerson. The biblical metaphors are there—if you care to look for them—as one might expect in a Jesus/Lazarus themed story, and I love that the town’s name feels like an innocent and sanitized version of the hell it’s becoming for Ebron White. I will also say that if you crave a lot of backstory and world building that answers the whys of Heckerson as a hub for the preternatural, and the hows of the existence of vampires and magic, you won’t find that—maybe that’s for later books—so just suspend your natural curiosity for a bit and enjoy the oddities.
Ebron is a sympathetic narrator, and I liked him so much. We don’t know why he is what he is, just what he does, and I appreciate that air of mystery about him. The true mystery in the story, though, at least for me, is his vampire boyfriend (errr, friend-with-benefits?), Leo. The first-person narration offers us precious little about Leo, only the bits and pieces Ebron chooses to reveal. Leo is more absent than present in Ebron’s life, and they clearly aren’t an exclusive couple, though Ebron wants them to be. He’s in love with the vampire, but there’s a reason Leo disappears for months at a time, and that is a tease-and-a-half I expect to learn more about in coming books.
It’s difficult to categorize this as a Murder Mystery, by the strictest definition, when the victims don’t stay dead, but a mystery it is nonetheless, when a coven of witches blows into town and focuses on Ebron’s tea and herbals shop as a point of their interest. One witch in particular, Marcus, homes in on Ebron, causing some confusion of feelings for the thaumaturgist, and his emotional connection to Leo. If you’re touchy about open relationships and blurred lines, this might be a tricky thing to navigate, but it serves to advance Ebron and Leo’s relationship arc and was the necessary catalyst for Leo to come to terms with his feelings for Ebron.
I loved the mysticism and magic and descriptive narration of the story. It spoke to my Horror-loving ways, but be aware that this being a dark paranormal novel, not so much a romance, things can get a little grizzly and gruesome. Matthews has a knack for bringing her scenes to vivid life, never more so than when a victim is in need of Ebron’s power, as well as during the climactic scene of the story that again evokes some fantastic imagery in Ebron’s ascension. The loose threads at the end of The Dead have me itching to dig into book two, Ebron’s moral dilemma included. He’s compromised, conflicted, and his reputation in Heckerson is beginning to eclipse his privacy. It all adds up to some intriguing fun, and a book I would gladly recommend to anyone who loves the genre.
Reviewed by Lisa at The Novel Approach
April 11, 2018
Not a fan of Granted Leo and Ebron were written as mere fuck-buddies but, Ebron was constantly pining and hoping for more. How am I suppose to root for that relationship as broken as it may be if all I can picture is someone else's
May 27, 2018
Despite all the typos and misplaced words, I really enjoyed the premise of the story and am looking forward to book 2.
April 28, 2022
A really awesome story. A good original plot.
October 6, 2016
I'm not sure about this one.
This one actually ended up better than I expected around the midpoint.
Ebron is able to reanimate dead people. He lives in a small Montana town, has a vampire sort of boyfriend, and runs an herb shop. When a group of witches shows up, including handsome Marcus, weird things start happening.
I found the portrayal of Ebron sort of overwhelmingly negative. He's mostly a jerk to Marcus from start to finish, so I can't figure out what the appeal is at all. He is actually mostly a jerk to everyone.
He is in love with Leo, his vampire lover, and the story implies that there is a past history but that they are now basically just friends. But they don't really expand on the history and its clear by the end that there is more there. It's all a bit confusing.
Also, I dislike the trend of having a diverse cast of characters but then giving people of color light eyes and making that their focal feature. Think about that - basically its implying that the best thing about a person of color comes from his European ancestry. There has to be something in between fetishizing people of color and erasing them.
But the plot was interesting and in the end the characters weren't unlikeable. I think the balance between positive and negative was just slightly skewed.
This one actually ended up better than I expected around the midpoint.
Ebron is able to reanimate dead people. He lives in a small Montana town, has a vampire sort of boyfriend, and runs an herb shop. When a group of witches shows up, including handsome Marcus, weird things start happening.
I found the portrayal of Ebron sort of overwhelmingly negative. He's mostly a jerk to Marcus from start to finish, so I can't figure out what the appeal is at all. He is actually mostly a jerk to everyone.
He is in love with Leo, his vampire lover, and the story implies that there is a past history but that they are now basically just friends. But they don't really expand on the history and its clear by the end that there is more there. It's all a bit confusing.
Also, I dislike the trend of having a diverse cast of characters but then giving people of color light eyes and making that their focal feature. Think about that - basically its implying that the best thing about a person of color comes from his European ancestry. There has to be something in between fetishizing people of color and erasing them.
But the plot was interesting and in the end the characters weren't unlikeable. I think the balance between positive and negative was just slightly skewed.
June 5, 2016
Wow! What a fun read! Fans of the Sookie Stackhouse novels who like M/M will certainly love this one! I really enjoyed this story of Ebron, a young gay man with the power to resurrect the dead and his vampire boyfriend, Leo. Except for the resurrections, life is pretty boring in the rural Montana town Ebron lives in. Leo is gone much of the time, sometimes up to 10 months at a time, but Ebron is too in love to go out with other guys as Leo keeps pushing him to. But when a coven of witches comes to town one winter, Leo is drawn to a young black male witch. Little does he know that the coven has come for him due to his unique powers. When a young girl and the black witch are both killed in the same way, witnesses lead to the coven. How will Ebron and Leo get out of this mess?
Well written, this became a page turner and I had to find out what happened next. The characters were nicely developed and the book left me wanting more. I plan to read the sequel (and short prequel) and I hope there will be more to come!
Well written, this became a page turner and I had to find out what happened next. The characters were nicely developed and the book left me wanting more. I plan to read the sequel (and short prequel) and I hope there will be more to come!
October 9, 2015
Well, I expected it to be more... dark I guess?
But I loked the plot (even if it was predictable) and the MCs.
4 solid stars.
But I loked the plot (even if it was predictable) and the MCs.
4 solid stars.
February 5, 2016
this book has everything good from an urban fantasy, and a crazy messed up romance on top. i can't wait for the next one
dnf-2018
July 3, 2018DNF at 32% because there's too much thinking and/or self-reflection and not enough action. The 32% that I've read contained more (quasi) romance/romantic thoughts than the supernatural plot.
The thing that made me DNF this book, though, was the MC's attitude towards one of the witches. I disliked how easily flustered the MC was when a handsome (but actually suspicious) customer came in and played "nice" with him. I think the MC should watch Teen Wolf or read its fanfics to get a different perspective about witches.
The thing that made me DNF this book, though, was the MC's attitude towards one of the witches. I disliked how easily flustered the MC was when a handsome (but actually suspicious) customer came in and played "nice" with him. I think the MC should watch Teen Wolf or read its fanfics to get a different perspective about witches.
March 31, 2020
Not sure what to say
I’m not sure what to say, honestly I loved this book and the MCs. It was slow but interesting enough and new enough to hold my interest and keep me engaged. The bad guy was a little wimpy? For me. I kinda wish he’d had more of a roll in the story than just doing stuff behind the scenes until the end. I’m really looking forward to how Leo’s revelations will effect future books.
I’m not sure what to say, honestly I loved this book and the MCs. It was slow but interesting enough and new enough to hold my interest and keep me engaged. The bad guy was a little wimpy? For me. I kinda wish he’d had more of a roll in the story than just doing stuff behind the scenes until the end. I’m really looking forward to how Leo’s revelations will effect future books.
April 15, 2018
These MC's are really different than the usual.
August 29, 2018
After devouring Lupine Road I thought I check more out by this author. Wow, I love the style, I love the characters. I need more urban fantasy in the mm genre!! Thoroughly recommend this
May 21, 2019
Fast paced & very enjoyable!
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