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Urban Fairytales #4
Rose: Briar's Thorn
Her touch is death... her love is worse.
For as long as she can remember, Rose has been a monster. Cursed by a man who would one day become one of the most feared creatures on the earth, one of the future Alpha werewolves. Alister Marcus.
For hundreds of years she has roamed the earth, living apart from humanity, watching from afar. Her skin and the briar vines that serve as both her protectors her tormentors, are poison. It is an instant death sentence to anyone, or anything, that comes in contact with her or her vines. She longs for human contact, or the contact of any living thing, but knows that it can never happen.
She strikes at evil from the shadows, known by many names to humans over the years, like Lady Death. But now the time of Gathering of the Avatars has come, can she learn what it is to be part of a group, of a family again with a huge battle looming? And what of her love? Cursed to an endless sleep?
For as long as she can remember, Rose has been a monster. Cursed by a man who would one day become one of the most feared creatures on the earth, one of the future Alpha werewolves. Alister Marcus.
For hundreds of years she has roamed the earth, living apart from humanity, watching from afar. Her skin and the briar vines that serve as both her protectors her tormentors, are poison. It is an instant death sentence to anyone, or anything, that comes in contact with her or her vines. She longs for human contact, or the contact of any living thing, but knows that it can never happen.
She strikes at evil from the shadows, known by many names to humans over the years, like Lady Death. But now the time of Gathering of the Avatars has come, can she learn what it is to be part of a group, of a family again with a huge battle looming? And what of her love? Cursed to an endless sleep?
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2015
45 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Erik Schubach
209 books440 followersInternational bestselling author of #lesfic f/f romance, scifi, urban fantasy, paranormal & more. Consummate geek & sarcasm connoisseur. Any pronouns are fine.
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Blog: https://bit.ly/2EZMIC7
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Bestsellers:
Fantasy:
Scifi/Paranormal:
Urban Fantasy:
Romance/Romantic Comedy:
With over 100 titles to choose from from various series and genres, I'm sure I've written something for you. Check out the whole list here .
Amazon: https://amzn.to/30ACXSq
Audible: https://adbl.co/2SrFqu1
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2GDN0is
Blog: https://bit.ly/2EZMIC7
iTunes: https://apple.co/2Sx6FDI
GooglePlay: http://tiny.cc/udycvz
YouTube: https://bit.ly/2Sw0Q9u
Bestsellers:
Fantasy:
Scifi/Paranormal:
Urban Fantasy:
Romance/Romantic Comedy:
With over 100 titles to choose from from various series and genres, I'm sure I've written something for you. Check out the whole list here .
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 17, 2015
The fourth “Urban Fairytale” begins at a point just prior to the end of “Ella: Cinders and Ash” from Rose's point-of-view. Her background is covered shortly after she makes contact with the other “Avatars” as she recalls the events that brought her to this point in the story.
The main plot of this series seems to take a higher priority for this portion of the story but not at the expense of the main protagonist. As her character and relationships develop, the roles of the different antagonists are clearly defined. Also, in a surprising twist, another common element of this series takes a more prominent role.
As with the previous books, the previously established characters compliment the development of the title character. My impression is that Rose had become more unbalanced mentally than any of the other characters but also evolves through the progression of the story. All things combined, I feel the characters makes this series more enjoyable than the story on its own.
The main plot of this series seems to take a higher priority for this portion of the story but not at the expense of the main protagonist. As her character and relationships develop, the roles of the different antagonists are clearly defined. Also, in a surprising twist, another common element of this series takes a more prominent role.
As with the previous books, the previously established characters compliment the development of the title character. My impression is that Rose had become more unbalanced mentally than any of the other characters but also evolves through the progression of the story. All things combined, I feel the characters makes this series more enjoyable than the story on its own.
September 26, 2015
A Fun Read
Enjoyable and fun read. Erik's mix of action, romance and humor make for great story every time, and the story of Rose hit the mark. As always getting to know the new characters was fun and kept me focused on the story. I liked Rose's little head tilts were made endearing throughout the story and the camaraderie among the other players. Well done, but does it end here, umm.
Enjoyable and fun read. Erik's mix of action, romance and humor make for great story every time, and the story of Rose hit the mark. As always getting to know the new characters was fun and kept me focused on the story. I liked Rose's little head tilts were made endearing throughout the story and the camaraderie among the other players. Well done, but does it end here, umm.
February 23, 2016
Love is the great equalizer.
Finally. Fuck yeah. After months of stalling because I really don't want to leave this series behind and say goodbye to the characters I finally finished it! +
Just like the first three, Schubach successfully wrote Rose's character, the emotions were there, the development, yes, was obvious and satisfying. If I were to name one thing I didn't like about her, maybe that would be her ramblings like: "Smelly, poison, yuck, stink. // "kill, dead, deceased, me." It annoyed me but somehow a part of me understood the reasoning behind that, it's just that I dislike reading those parts.
I admired how Erik wrapped everything in the end, especially Rose's realization about the good in the earth. This is not just a story about conquering werewolves, it's also like an exploration of humanity and human spirit and what was left of it, especially in the dark times, how hope should never be gone.
In contrast to the first three, this is the first where all the avatars were together 98% of the book, so of course an attached reader might feel the need to see and hear more from their favorite leads (in my case, Ella Marie/Parker in the firsts , but the author had successfully given all of the avatars and their keepers their own spotlights, no one was forgotten or cast aside. One of my favorites was the mention of Parker's importance in the group, it was actually...nice. I was beaming with pride reading it. I wanna high-five Erik for adding that. My baby needs it.
Overall, this was a wonderful series, wishing there's more to come. The writing is tight, the characters are deep and intriguing, the world building was pulling and well-thought. Don't forget, fucking Grimm brothers.
Finally. Fuck yeah. After months of stalling because I really don't want to leave this series behind and say goodbye to the characters I finally finished it! +
Just like the first three, Schubach successfully wrote Rose's character, the emotions were there, the development, yes, was obvious and satisfying. If I were to name one thing I didn't like about her, maybe that would be her ramblings like: "Smelly, poison, yuck, stink. // "kill, dead, deceased, me." It annoyed me but somehow a part of me understood the reasoning behind that, it's just that I dislike reading those parts.
I admired how Erik wrapped everything in the end, especially Rose's realization about the good in the earth. This is not just a story about conquering werewolves, it's also like an exploration of humanity and human spirit and what was left of it, especially in the dark times, how hope should never be gone.
In contrast to the first three, this is the first where all the avatars were together 98% of the book, so of course an attached reader might feel the need to see and hear more from their favorite leads (in my case, Ella Marie/Parker in the firsts , but the author had successfully given all of the avatars and their keepers their own spotlights, no one was forgotten or cast aside. One of my favorites was the mention of Parker's importance in the group, it was actually...nice. I was beaming with pride reading it. I wanna high-five Erik for adding that. My baby needs it.
Overall, this was a wonderful series, wishing there's more to come. The writing is tight, the characters are deep and intriguing, the world building was pulling and well-thought. Don't forget, fucking Grimm brothers.
July 28, 2016
(I should say that it's the first book of the four I have read.)
Fun read, I liked the slightly unhinged main character though it didn't really explore her messed up psyche after spending centuries as immortal being killing everything she touches. Romance a bit soul matey, I prefer people falling in love after getting to know each other I never found the instant love thing romantic, but whatever it's hard to find urban fantasy I enjoy coupled with romance I enjoy and when one falls short I prefer it to be the romance. Plot is alright I guess, basically just "group of super powered being meet up to fight evil army, prepare for the fight, fight the fight" but told in a way that made it interesting for me in an interesting enough world. Anyway I found it enjoyable and I mostly rate based on how much I enjoy something so 7/10. (Yes that translates to 5 stars for me, my goodreads rating are inflated because I don't like pulling averages down when I liked the book.) I read some more from the author after this book and his work including this book is quite flawed but can be enjoyable.
Fun read, I liked the slightly unhinged main character though it didn't really explore her messed up psyche after spending centuries as immortal being killing everything she touches. Romance a bit soul matey, I prefer people falling in love after getting to know each other I never found the instant love thing romantic, but whatever it's hard to find urban fantasy I enjoy coupled with romance I enjoy and when one falls short I prefer it to be the romance. Plot is alright I guess, basically just "group of super powered being meet up to fight evil army, prepare for the fight, fight the fight" but told in a way that made it interesting for me in an interesting enough world. Anyway I found it enjoyable and I mostly rate based on how much I enjoy something so 7/10. (Yes that translates to 5 stars for me, my goodreads rating are inflated because I don't like pulling averages down when I liked the book.) I read some more from the author after this book and his work including this book is quite flawed but can be enjoyable.
September 23, 2015
This final establishment in the battle to rid the world of the werewolf curse was more than I ever expected. The book has a completely different feel and tone to it than its predecessors. Rose was a character that fascinated me since the introduction in the previous book. She is more unique than the others and her history is vastly different. The plot contained more action and edge of your seat excitement than any other in this series. I loved the conclusion and feeling of family we were left with. I highly recommend this series and hope the author will continue these characters in the future with all the sequels possible.
September 7, 2021
I "read" the via Audible. I noticed the book was newly out on Audible and I had get it as soon as possible. Having enjoyed the first three books I was waiting for the next part. I know the series has ended I have not given in and started getting the kindle editions as I started this on Audible. I have almost every available Audible book Mr. Schuback has put out and there is a lot more to go! This was a good follow up to the first three. It ends the initial battle started in the first one and starts the next battle nicely. I of course like Hollie Jackson's reading of the stories and I look forward to the next one.
September 24, 2015
In conclusion
Great conclusion to the Urban Fairytales series...or is it? As expected, lots of action and soul mates. Lots of questions are answered about all the characters in the series. I enjoyed the book very much. As with all of Erik's books, lots of fun. Looking forward to your next piece of work.
Great conclusion to the Urban Fairytales series...or is it? As expected, lots of action and soul mates. Lots of questions are answered about all the characters in the series. I enjoyed the book very much. As with all of Erik's books, lots of fun. Looking forward to your next piece of work.
January 9, 2018
I liked this one very much, (sorry not an objective reviewer for Erik, he is my favorite author all time) but I did find it a happy/haunting read. This woman has lived with such angst for so long. It tears my heart. She is scary one for sure.
January 8, 2019
Glad I read it!
I got spoiled listening to the first 3 books. Reading this one, I read it with all the accents. So awesome sauce! Planning to buy whatever I can get in audible. Thanks for getting me to rethink the Walt Disney Movies.
I got spoiled listening to the first 3 books. Reading this one, I read it with all the accents. So awesome sauce! Planning to buy whatever I can get in audible. Thanks for getting me to rethink the Walt Disney Movies.
October 4, 2015
Another amazing story with all our girls, I am really hoping that this is not all that we will hear from them.
November 10, 2018
It was really fun. Lots of unexpected twists with more of the fun stuff we saw with the earlier books in the series.
I find myself addicted to his books LOL.
I find myself addicted to his books LOL.
October 30, 2015
Good god I did not sleep and read it in one day, absolutely loved it. Hope there are more to come.
June 12, 2018
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October 22, 2023
An entertaining series and a good ending to this chapter.
February 5, 2024
Wow, this book had my heart aching. Rose went through so much. I think I would have lost my mind eons ago. Read them in order. This is book 4 in the series.
February 23, 2016
This is more a review for the series than the book, but there's a mention, I swear. :P Sorry!
I really enjoyed the Urban Fairytales series and binge-read them. The first book was available as an audiobook, and that turned me on to the entire series. It was excellent. The second book was available on kindle, but while it continued the story (which I really enjoyed), it was a mess. There were editing mistakes *everywhere*. If that bothers you, wait until the rest of the audiobooks come out.
With that said, I really, truly enjoyed all the fairytale princesses kicking ass and taking names without a single prince in sight. This book wrapped up the story arc nicely, though in my opinion it was the weakest of the series, and the big battle felt rushed and sadly anticlimactic. Maybe another book telling the story of the last brother will smooth that out. I'm reading book number five now, and rather than a continuation, it's more like a history of another fairytale fighting evil and falling in love.
Speaking of which, I'm actually enjoying the romance in these. Maybe it's because it's less about wanting his hot, throbbing manhood and more about like minds meeting in dark places, but I didn't feel like rolling my eyes once.
I really enjoyed the Urban Fairytales series and binge-read them. The first book was available as an audiobook, and that turned me on to the entire series. It was excellent. The second book was available on kindle, but while it continued the story (which I really enjoyed), it was a mess. There were editing mistakes *everywhere*. If that bothers you, wait until the rest of the audiobooks come out.
With that said, I really, truly enjoyed all the fairytale princesses kicking ass and taking names without a single prince in sight. This book wrapped up the story arc nicely, though in my opinion it was the weakest of the series, and the big battle felt rushed and sadly anticlimactic. Maybe another book telling the story of the last brother will smooth that out. I'm reading book number five now, and rather than a continuation, it's more like a history of another fairytale fighting evil and falling in love.
Speaking of which, I'm actually enjoying the romance in these. Maybe it's because it's less about wanting his hot, throbbing manhood and more about like minds meeting in dark places, but I didn't feel like rolling my eyes once.
January 6, 2017
Con questo libro si chiude la prima fase degli “Urban Fairytales”, a quanto pare. Dopo essersi riunite per ingaggiare la terribile battaglia finale contro i fratelli Marcus, le nostre eroine (Cappuccetto Rosso, Cenerentola, Biancaneve e Rosaspina) si preparano allo scontro e affinano le armi.
Seguiamo gli eventi dal punto di vista della nuova protagonista, Rose, la Bella Addormenta introdotta alla fine del volume precedente. Un personaggio ironico e piacevole, senz’ombra di dubbio, ma che a questo punto comincia a confondersi un po’ con l’ombra di chi l’ha preceduta.
In realtà, il clima disteso, cameratesco e in stile “big crazy family” evocato dalla goffa e strampalata prosa di Schubach continua a strapparmi un sorriso, ma ritengo che una nuova ricetta, e un bel cambio di ingredienti, non potrebbero che fare del bene alla serie.
Anche la componente “romance” andrebbe rivista un po’, dal momento che ormai sembra trascinarsi a forza di inerzia, luoghi comuni e battute di spirito sempre più riciclate.
Staremo a vedere cosà accadrà nel prossimo capitolo (sperando che ci sia ancora un po’ di spazio per Mari, e per i lunatici fratelli Grimm), anche se per il momento conto di prendermi una lunga pausa da questa eccentrica e squinternata serie…
Seguiamo gli eventi dal punto di vista della nuova protagonista, Rose, la Bella Addormenta introdotta alla fine del volume precedente. Un personaggio ironico e piacevole, senz’ombra di dubbio, ma che a questo punto comincia a confondersi un po’ con l’ombra di chi l’ha preceduta.
In realtà, il clima disteso, cameratesco e in stile “big crazy family” evocato dalla goffa e strampalata prosa di Schubach continua a strapparmi un sorriso, ma ritengo che una nuova ricetta, e un bel cambio di ingredienti, non potrebbero che fare del bene alla serie.
Anche la componente “romance” andrebbe rivista un po’, dal momento che ormai sembra trascinarsi a forza di inerzia, luoghi comuni e battute di spirito sempre più riciclate.
Staremo a vedere cosà accadrà nel prossimo capitolo (sperando che ci sia ancora un po’ di spazio per Mari, e per i lunatici fratelli Grimm), anche se per il momento conto di prendermi una lunga pausa da questa eccentrica e squinternata serie…
December 17, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. it wasn't as good as the other ones but it was still really good.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews