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Insighter #1
Deja Who
Leah Nazir is an Insighter. Reincarnation is her business. But while her clients' pasts are a mess, Leah's is nothing short of tragedy. She's been murdered. A lot. If left to that bitch, destiny, it'll happen again. Leah wants to know who's been following her through time, and who's been stalking her in the present...
P.I. Archer Drake has been hired by Leah's mother to keep an eye on her. But the more time he spends watching, the more he finds himself infatuated. Before long, he even finds himself agreeing to help find the person who wants her dead. Over and over again.
Now going full-on "rewind," Leah hopes it can stave off the inevitable. After all, she's grown fond of this life - and even fonder of nerdy Archer. But changing her pattern means finding out who her killer is today. And as Leah fears, that could be anyone she has come to know and trust. Anyone.
P.I. Archer Drake has been hired by Leah's mother to keep an eye on her. But the more time he spends watching, the more he finds himself infatuated. Before long, he even finds himself agreeing to help find the person who wants her dead. Over and over again.
Now going full-on "rewind," Leah hopes it can stave off the inevitable. After all, she's grown fond of this life - and even fonder of nerdy Archer. But changing her pattern means finding out who her killer is today. And as Leah fears, that could be anyone she has come to know and trust. Anyone.
304 pages, Paperback
First published September 6, 2016
87 people are currently reading
1445 people want to read
About the author
MaryJanice Davidson
145 books5,401 followersMaryJanice Davidson is an American author and motivational speaker who writes mostly paranormal romance, but also young adult and non-fiction. She is the creator of the popular UNDEAD series and the time-traveling historical fiction A CONTEMPORARY ASSHAT AT THE COURT OF HENRY VIII. MaryJanice is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author who writes a bi-weekly column for USA Today and lives in St. Paul with her family. You can reach her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
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@MaryJaniceD
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
May 23, 2017
Mary Janice Davidson is a constant in my Top 10 Authors list and nobody can move her.
Short list of reasons for loving MJD :
1 She is hilarious and has a unique perspective on everything.
2 Complex issues
MJD tackles everything head on - her books cover everything from substance abuse, prejudice, parental issues, depression and lots more.
3 Then there's the fun stuff :
Vampire royalty, designer shoes, serial killers, time travel, malls, puppies, food, family, love, Sherlock and plenty of pop culture references, sisters, smoothies, penguins...etc.
Deja Who was another hit for me, let the gushing commence :
1 The Concept
All the characters in this story world have some knowledge of their past lives. Memories can be triggered by stressful situations, you end up with too much information and no way to handle it.
The legal system has taken this into consideration : legislation preventing reincarnated victims from suing reincarnated people who had wronged them in previous lives.
This is both exciting and terrifying. Think of the stories you could tell, the successful dinner parties you could host, a life well lived...
Now take a moment to think about the emotional baggage which is literally - yours forever.
2 Leah Nazir
Leah was fantastic. She has been murdered in all her previous lives and now she's waiting for her murderer to strike...or maybe not.
Leah is an Insighter which means she can see the past lives of others and help them come to terms with their past. Her detatchment and lack of empathy are minor obstacles and a part of her charm.
Maybe in this life I have learned enough. Maybe I’ll kill him this time.” Wait. That didn’t sound like the lesson karma was trying to teach her . . .
“And when Dr. Turnman quit referring patients to you because he thought you might be one of the Horsewomen of the Apocalypse?”
“All right, Deb.”
“And remember when the guy who used to be Genghis Khan and Henry Clay Frick and J. Edgar Hoover made that chart detailing just how much of an awful human being you are? And we all got copies of the chart? And we all went to his presentation explaining the chart?”
3 The Love Interest - Archer Drake
Archer was everything an alpha male isn't. He was endearing, cute, weird, funny, patient and kind. Where are these men? What do we call them? Lets go with mythical beings for now, I'm open to suggestions.
“You are,” she decided, “overly dramatic. And possibly deranged.”
“Because I’ve been fucking stabbed, you heartless psychotic!”
4 The Issues
There's a lot going on beneath the surface. Leah is waiting to be murdered, dealing with severe mother-issues, living as an Insighter and trying to build a real relationship.
"What did you do to her?”
“That’s none of your concern. And she did it to me. Now. The time is almost right.”
“Are you trying to sound like a comic book villain on purpose?”
His client hissed at him like an irked housecat. “You will watch, and you will inform.”
“Then, when I’m ready—”
“—you’ll spirit her to your lair and make her your bride?”
“That’s disgusting.”
I loved this one and am borrowing a response from this book - (to be used religiously)
“What’s wrong with me?”
What isn’t wrong with you?
Short list of reasons for loving MJD :
1 She is hilarious and has a unique perspective on everything.
2 Complex issues
MJD tackles everything head on - her books cover everything from substance abuse, prejudice, parental issues, depression and lots more.
3 Then there's the fun stuff :
Vampire royalty, designer shoes, serial killers, time travel, malls, puppies, food, family, love, Sherlock and plenty of pop culture references, sisters, smoothies, penguins...etc.
Deja Who was another hit for me, let the gushing commence :
1 The Concept
All the characters in this story world have some knowledge of their past lives. Memories can be triggered by stressful situations, you end up with too much information and no way to handle it.
The legal system has taken this into consideration : legislation preventing reincarnated victims from suing reincarnated people who had wronged them in previous lives.
This is both exciting and terrifying. Think of the stories you could tell, the successful dinner parties you could host, a life well lived...
Now take a moment to think about the emotional baggage which is literally - yours forever.
2 Leah Nazir
Leah was fantastic. She has been murdered in all her previous lives and now she's waiting for her murderer to strike...or maybe not.
Leah is an Insighter which means she can see the past lives of others and help them come to terms with their past. Her detatchment and lack of empathy are minor obstacles and a part of her charm.
Maybe in this life I have learned enough. Maybe I’ll kill him this time.” Wait. That didn’t sound like the lesson karma was trying to teach her . . .
“And when Dr. Turnman quit referring patients to you because he thought you might be one of the Horsewomen of the Apocalypse?”
“All right, Deb.”
“And remember when the guy who used to be Genghis Khan and Henry Clay Frick and J. Edgar Hoover made that chart detailing just how much of an awful human being you are? And we all got copies of the chart? And we all went to his presentation explaining the chart?”
3 The Love Interest - Archer Drake
Archer was everything an alpha male isn't. He was endearing, cute, weird, funny, patient and kind. Where are these men? What do we call them? Lets go with mythical beings for now, I'm open to suggestions.
“You are,” she decided, “overly dramatic. And possibly deranged.”
“Because I’ve been fucking stabbed, you heartless psychotic!”
4 The Issues
There's a lot going on beneath the surface. Leah is waiting to be murdered, dealing with severe mother-issues, living as an Insighter and trying to build a real relationship.
"What did you do to her?”
“That’s none of your concern. And she did it to me. Now. The time is almost right.”
“Are you trying to sound like a comic book villain on purpose?”
His client hissed at him like an irked housecat. “You will watch, and you will inform.”
“Then, when I’m ready—”
“—you’ll spirit her to your lair and make her your bride?”
“That’s disgusting.”
I loved this one and am borrowing a response from this book - (to be used religiously)
“What’s wrong with me?”
What isn’t wrong with you?
September 6, 2016
2.5 stars
MaryJanice Davidson is a new-to-me author. I know that she has released a long-running series, Undead, but this is my first experience with her writing. I wonder if this is a common writing style for her, which probably … because despite my liking the idea of urban fantasy with reincarnations, the execution – a.k.a the writing style – just doesn’t work for me.
In this world that Davidson creates, 70% of the population can remember some or all of their past lives. Then there are the Insighters, people who remember their past lives perfectly and can also see other people’s past selves. Leah is one of them and she works to ‘help’ her patients remember.
Like I said, I really LOVED the idea!! It was unique! However, as I continued reading, I found reading descriptions about past lives of Leah’s patients to be dragging and boring. Turned out I didn’t really care that they used to be rapists, or murderers, or killed, because it felt repetitive when they were either doing the same thing now, or denying who they were which made them end up as Leah’s patients in the first place.
Then there was the premise of Leah trying to find her killer in the present time – which to me, was never fully manifested because I got distracted by irrelevant chapters of characters in their past lives (Mary Jane Kelly, Isabella Mowbray, Louise Élisabeth de Croÿ) … Do I care? Uhm, no!
And don’t get me started with Archer Drake, the P.I. hired by Leah’s mother to keep an eye on her. I found him to be incompetent because he was distracted by his feelings for her (and her looks) even before he finished the job. How could I take him seriously when he commented about Leah’s boobs when she stabbed him? It wasn’t a funny line for me, at all.
But the biggest problem for me with this story was, like I said above, the writing style. There were a LOT of internal musings (with italics) in between descriptions … which I found to be distracting as hell. Examples…
Maybe this was meant to be funny and quirky, like Leah calling her mother “It”. But I prefer a smooth, sharp, writing style rather than ‘funny’. It is difficult for me to make an emotional connection with these characters and care about them because reading in this way just paints the characters as silly. Like, I’m supposed to laugh because of its quirkiness but it never reached that point. I don’t know if it has something to do with a different humor culture considering that I’m not an American … but I definitely didn’t enjoy this at all.
I assume maybe Davidson fans will enjoy this. Or those who like a little strange way of storytelling in their books. I still appreciate the idea though. Maybe I’m just not the target market for this, so I will go on to say the magic words of “your mileage will vary”.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
MaryJanice Davidson is a new-to-me author. I know that she has released a long-running series, Undead, but this is my first experience with her writing. I wonder if this is a common writing style for her, which probably … because despite my liking the idea of urban fantasy with reincarnations, the execution – a.k.a the writing style – just doesn’t work for me.
In this world that Davidson creates, 70% of the population can remember some or all of their past lives. Then there are the Insighters, people who remember their past lives perfectly and can also see other people’s past selves. Leah is one of them and she works to ‘help’ her patients remember.
Like I said, I really LOVED the idea!! It was unique! However, as I continued reading, I found reading descriptions about past lives of Leah’s patients to be dragging and boring. Turned out I didn’t really care that they used to be rapists, or murderers, or killed, because it felt repetitive when they were either doing the same thing now, or denying who they were which made them end up as Leah’s patients in the first place.
Then there was the premise of Leah trying to find her killer in the present time – which to me, was never fully manifested because I got distracted by irrelevant chapters of characters in their past lives (Mary Jane Kelly, Isabella Mowbray, Louise Élisabeth de Croÿ) … Do I care? Uhm, no!
And don’t get me started with Archer Drake, the P.I. hired by Leah’s mother to keep an eye on her. I found him to be incompetent because he was distracted by his feelings for her (and her looks) even before he finished the job. How could I take him seriously when he commented about Leah’s boobs when she stabbed him? It wasn’t a funny line for me, at all.
But the biggest problem for me with this story was, like I said above, the writing style. There were a LOT of internal musings (with italics) in between descriptions … which I found to be distracting as hell. Examples…
Leah couldn’t help but be pleased that the only two people in her life she cared about
(you haven’t even known him a week! how is that ‘in your life’?)
seemed to be getting along. Sharing carrots, even. (Ugh.)
That was about all Archer had time for while Leah was backing him into the empty living room, snogging him
(mental note: stop watching so much BBC)
like she was—ha, ha!—gonna get murdered tomorrow. Or something. One of Elaine’s lines from Seinfeld
(God, is that why I’m crushing so hard on Leah? She reminds me of a dour Elaine? God, what if she dances as horribly as Elaine does, the whole ‘full body dry heave set to music’ thing? that would be so hot)
flashed through his brain: “We made out like our plane was going down!”
Maybe this was meant to be funny and quirky, like Leah calling her mother “It”. But I prefer a smooth, sharp, writing style rather than ‘funny’. It is difficult for me to make an emotional connection with these characters and care about them because reading in this way just paints the characters as silly. Like, I’m supposed to laugh because of its quirkiness but it never reached that point. I don’t know if it has something to do with a different humor culture considering that I’m not an American … but I definitely didn’t enjoy this at all.
I assume maybe Davidson fans will enjoy this. Or those who like a little strange way of storytelling in their books. I still appreciate the idea though. Maybe I’m just not the target market for this, so I will go on to say the magic words of “your mileage will vary”.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
August 1, 2017
Deja Who. Got. Me. Out. Of. My. Downward. Book. Funk. Spiral.
After the author’s foreword about the book you just want to continue reading well that was the case with me. This is what I understand when it comes to artistic license.
Leah Namir is an Insighter, and she is a really good one. Recognising people’s past lives who they are and what they did and how it impacts their current lives or sometimes it can be used as an excuse.
Sounds like a bad joke but it isn’t…..
So! A pirate, a serial killer, and the worst bigot the Supreme Court had ever seen. And Leah was trapped in a room with all of them. All right, “trapped” was inaccurate, since she had obtained patient consent, drugged #6116, and called all her shadows forward. Wednesdays!
Just another day in paradise for Leah. Being an Insighter would actually get them burnt at the stake but now they help society deal with their problems. They have always been around but now they don’t have to hide. The Salem Witch Trials was a particularly difficult time for all Insighters.
Leah Namir has more severe problems then just her job turning her into a cynic. She has some serious problems which are a real killer. I mean literally killer. Her mother is trying to slither back into her life oh and in nearly every life she has been murdered and she is waiting to be murdered in this life as well. One of her past lives was Mary Jane Kelly, a victim of Jack the Ripper.
Archer Drake is a clean slate, she can’t see him as in his past lives. He has been employed by Leah’s Mum to stalk ah watch her. He finds he can’t deal with that and is also slightly ah strongly attracted to her. He decides to approach her and tell her that someone is after her and that doesn’t go as planned.
“It’s easier, then. If you know what’s going on.” “You would think.” She shifted: he was so busy watching her face he forgot to watch her hands. “But in fact, sometimes that makes it more difficult.” Then she stabbed.
What did I say? Huh. Not good but they do get over the whole stabbing incident. But they as a couple have their difficulties.
I feel a kinship with Leah.
It wasn’t even the first time that week she’d been called a fucking bitch. “I’m not a good person anymore. Wait. Maybe not ever, maybe I’m like you that way. Just a moment.” She hit the speak/sec button that connected her to the office admin. “Deb, I used to be nice, right?” “Oh, God no,” came the prompt reply. “You’ve never been nice. Not once.” “Thanks, Deb.” “Remember I told you my Grandma died, and you said leaving early wouldn’t bring her back, and payroll wouldn’t calculate itself?” “Thanks, Deb.”
Archer Drake is a nut job but in a positive way there is no other way to put up with the craziness around him. In a way he is quite nondescript but still sticks out in his actions.
Some of the human made it a good and funny read.
“Hey!” Archer bounded to his feet like a six-foot puppy. “You didn’t get murdered las night! Great!”
Have you ever experienced a book to be too funny? Me neither until this book. Somewhere along the book it went from being funny to move on with the banter and let’s continue with the plot line. You know for the fact that she’s going to be murdered and all that jazz? It overshadowed the book plot in many ways. Just sayin’!
This is a promising book and I’m fascinated by the concept of the book. That do your past lives really influence the lives with the life that you are living at the moment. I don’t know what I’d rather be tabula rasa or know about past lives but what if I was an avid tax evasion. Or I suffered from insomnia that could be why I constantly feel like I need to sleep in this life. But I think it’s better just not knowing.
I will continue in the series as it is promising.
Review can also be found @http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
Book received by Berkley Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
After the author’s foreword about the book you just want to continue reading well that was the case with me. This is what I understand when it comes to artistic license.
Leah Namir is an Insighter, and she is a really good one. Recognising people’s past lives who they are and what they did and how it impacts their current lives or sometimes it can be used as an excuse.
Sounds like a bad joke but it isn’t…..
So! A pirate, a serial killer, and the worst bigot the Supreme Court had ever seen. And Leah was trapped in a room with all of them. All right, “trapped” was inaccurate, since she had obtained patient consent, drugged #6116, and called all her shadows forward. Wednesdays!
Just another day in paradise for Leah. Being an Insighter would actually get them burnt at the stake but now they help society deal with their problems. They have always been around but now they don’t have to hide. The Salem Witch Trials was a particularly difficult time for all Insighters.
Leah Namir has more severe problems then just her job turning her into a cynic. She has some serious problems which are a real killer. I mean literally killer. Her mother is trying to slither back into her life oh and in nearly every life she has been murdered and she is waiting to be murdered in this life as well. One of her past lives was Mary Jane Kelly, a victim of Jack the Ripper.
Archer Drake is a clean slate, she can’t see him as in his past lives. He has been employed by Leah’s Mum to stalk ah watch her. He finds he can’t deal with that and is also slightly ah strongly attracted to her. He decides to approach her and tell her that someone is after her and that doesn’t go as planned.
“It’s easier, then. If you know what’s going on.” “You would think.” She shifted: he was so busy watching her face he forgot to watch her hands. “But in fact, sometimes that makes it more difficult.” Then she stabbed.
What did I say? Huh. Not good but they do get over the whole stabbing incident. But they as a couple have their difficulties.
I feel a kinship with Leah.
It wasn’t even the first time that week she’d been called a fucking bitch. “I’m not a good person anymore. Wait. Maybe not ever, maybe I’m like you that way. Just a moment.” She hit the speak/sec button that connected her to the office admin. “Deb, I used to be nice, right?” “Oh, God no,” came the prompt reply. “You’ve never been nice. Not once.” “Thanks, Deb.” “Remember I told you my Grandma died, and you said leaving early wouldn’t bring her back, and payroll wouldn’t calculate itself?” “Thanks, Deb.”
Archer Drake is a nut job but in a positive way there is no other way to put up with the craziness around him. In a way he is quite nondescript but still sticks out in his actions.
Some of the human made it a good and funny read.
“Hey!” Archer bounded to his feet like a six-foot puppy. “You didn’t get murdered las night! Great!”
Have you ever experienced a book to be too funny? Me neither until this book. Somewhere along the book it went from being funny to move on with the banter and let’s continue with the plot line. You know for the fact that she’s going to be murdered and all that jazz? It overshadowed the book plot in many ways. Just sayin’!
This is a promising book and I’m fascinated by the concept of the book. That do your past lives really influence the lives with the life that you are living at the moment. I don’t know what I’d rather be tabula rasa or know about past lives but what if I was an avid tax evasion. Or I suffered from insomnia that could be why I constantly feel like I need to sleep in this life. But I think it’s better just not knowing.
I will continue in the series as it is promising.
Review can also be found @http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
Book received by Berkley Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2018
This is among my favorite authors so I knew it would be good, but I didn’t anticipate how great it would be. Great characters and excellent plot. I love a good comedy and this filled all my happy spots.
Leah can look at a person and see all their past lives. She helps them understand their phobias in this life by understanding what happened to them in previous lives. Therefore this book has tons of little stories from their past lives. I learned interesting historical facts from these lives.
Archer is the special snowflake that is usually the role of the heroines. He has entered my realm that is inhabited by my favorite characters. He is so much fun! His latest job is as a private investigator hired to tail Leah.
Archer and Leah have an adorable romance! His plans involve making Leah laugh and he takes us along for the fun. 🤣💕💕
Leah can look at a person and see all their past lives. She helps them understand their phobias in this life by understanding what happened to them in previous lives. Therefore this book has tons of little stories from their past lives. I learned interesting historical facts from these lives.
Archer is the special snowflake that is usually the role of the heroines. He has entered my realm that is inhabited by my favorite characters. He is so much fun! His latest job is as a private investigator hired to tail Leah.
Archer and Leah have an adorable romance! His plans involve making Leah laugh and he takes us along for the fun. 🤣💕💕
September 5, 2016
Caffeinated Aspects:
I found the Author’s notes at the beginning fascinating and recommend not skipping them. (Yes, I am talking to you)
The year is 2015 and unlike the witches and soothsayers of the past, Insighters are respected in the medical and legal professions. In Davidson’s world as teens, or during tragic/stressful events folks unlock or recall parts of their past lives. This often affects them or is the driving force behind their behavior. Whether court required, or medical reasons patients use Insighters to safely navigate memories of their past lives. By understanding their fears/behavior in relation to their past lives they can break the cycle. Insighters also use their insight to alert local authorities to watch or set traps for dangerous souls. It is all quite interesting and taps into some religious and spiritual beliefs.
Leah Nazir is our quirky heroine and Insighter. Folks who work with her respect her but will also note she is a cold-hearted bitch. By outward appearances, Leah is indeed a bit of a bitch. Cold, factual and reserved she allows very few people into her inner world. In ALL of Leah’s past lives she was murdered. Every time she is stabbed, and a part of her is waiting for that to happen again. Of course she hopes to thwart the killer, but she is also resigned to die.
P.I Archer Drake has been hired to keep an eye on her, and soon find himself curious. Leah is aware of the man stalking her but believes him to be her killer. When he is unhappy with the client and feels Leah may be in danger he confronts her. Oh boy this is when the fun begins.
In Deja Who we have several threads; developing friendship/romance between Archer and Leah, a murder and the looming threat of Leah’s pending murder, All of these threads created intense scenes, drama and helped the reader understand Leah and her past. The beginning was rough for me (see Decaffeinated Aspects) but the story delivered twists, reveals and just enough drama to keep me flipping the pages at a steady past.
Secondary characters added interest and shed light on Insighters, past lives and the jumbled legal issues surrounding those lives. It was quite interesting and allowed me to see Leah in action and warm up to her. I enjoyed Leah's sessions with patients, and her insight about people she comes into contact with. Davidson included famous historical characters and it was riveting.
The romance was light and adorkable, even silly at times but it totally worked because Leah and Archer are quirky.
Decaffeinated Aspects:
I almost DNF’d Deja Who at 15%. While the author’s note and prologue give us the basic concept, we sort of jump right into the story as Leah is with a client. The date on the report is the only clue about where I was. In America, based on how the date was written and the year was 2015. We dip into past lives and it was all quite unsettling for me as a reader. I did not feel grounded. Thankfully, I began to settle in despite jarring questions. Once I read Archer’s perspective, I decided to give it more time. I am glad that I did, despite wanting more details. I am not even sure of the city. My best guess is Chicago.
The world building was lacking for me, or the author assumed that as the reader I understood all the levels of reincarnation. I would have liked an understanding of the path, and Insighters role. We learn how Insighters helps the patients not become lost in their own mind, but I am quite confident their role is more than that. I am hoping the second novel provides more insight.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
I found the Author’s notes at the beginning fascinating and recommend not skipping them. (Yes, I am talking to you)
The year is 2015 and unlike the witches and soothsayers of the past, Insighters are respected in the medical and legal professions. In Davidson’s world as teens, or during tragic/stressful events folks unlock or recall parts of their past lives. This often affects them or is the driving force behind their behavior. Whether court required, or medical reasons patients use Insighters to safely navigate memories of their past lives. By understanding their fears/behavior in relation to their past lives they can break the cycle. Insighters also use their insight to alert local authorities to watch or set traps for dangerous souls. It is all quite interesting and taps into some religious and spiritual beliefs.
Leah Nazir is our quirky heroine and Insighter. Folks who work with her respect her but will also note she is a cold-hearted bitch. By outward appearances, Leah is indeed a bit of a bitch. Cold, factual and reserved she allows very few people into her inner world. In ALL of Leah’s past lives she was murdered. Every time she is stabbed, and a part of her is waiting for that to happen again. Of course she hopes to thwart the killer, but she is also resigned to die.
P.I Archer Drake has been hired to keep an eye on her, and soon find himself curious. Leah is aware of the man stalking her but believes him to be her killer. When he is unhappy with the client and feels Leah may be in danger he confronts her. Oh boy this is when the fun begins.
In Deja Who we have several threads; developing friendship/romance between Archer and Leah, a murder and the looming threat of Leah’s pending murder, All of these threads created intense scenes, drama and helped the reader understand Leah and her past. The beginning was rough for me (see Decaffeinated Aspects) but the story delivered twists, reveals and just enough drama to keep me flipping the pages at a steady past.
Secondary characters added interest and shed light on Insighters, past lives and the jumbled legal issues surrounding those lives. It was quite interesting and allowed me to see Leah in action and warm up to her. I enjoyed Leah's sessions with patients, and her insight about people she comes into contact with. Davidson included famous historical characters and it was riveting.
The romance was light and adorkable, even silly at times but it totally worked because Leah and Archer are quirky.
Decaffeinated Aspects:
I almost DNF’d Deja Who at 15%. While the author’s note and prologue give us the basic concept, we sort of jump right into the story as Leah is with a client. The date on the report is the only clue about where I was. In America, based on how the date was written and the year was 2015. We dip into past lives and it was all quite unsettling for me as a reader. I did not feel grounded. Thankfully, I began to settle in despite jarring questions. Once I read Archer’s perspective, I decided to give it more time. I am glad that I did, despite wanting more details. I am not even sure of the city. My best guess is Chicago.
The world building was lacking for me, or the author assumed that as the reader I understood all the levels of reincarnation. I would have liked an understanding of the path, and Insighters role. We learn how Insighters helps the patients not become lost in their own mind, but I am quite confident their role is more than that. I am hoping the second novel provides more insight.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
April 9, 2017
Pure drivel, excellently read by Nancy Wu, the same gal that read & made her Queen Betsy books palatable, too. I like this sort of thing occasionally. There is a lot of funny & stupid repartee without any thought required.
Kind of a neat PNR idea. Most people are reincarnated & an Insighter can read those past lives & help people deal with their old baggage. She has plenty of baggage of her own & a bitchy attitude to go with it. The other characters played off & around her in a great way, too.
It's fairly short, completely mindless, & a fun read in audio. I wouldn't try reading it print, though. I did that with the first Queen Betsy & barely got through it. Nancy Wu makes all the difference.
Kind of a neat PNR idea. Most people are reincarnated & an Insighter can read those past lives & help people deal with their old baggage. She has plenty of baggage of her own & a bitchy attitude to go with it. The other characters played off & around her in a great way, too.
It's fairly short, completely mindless, & a fun read in audio. I wouldn't try reading it print, though. I did that with the first Queen Betsy & barely got through it. Nancy Wu makes all the difference.
October 7, 2016
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
I will admit it: I started reading DEJA WHO solely because it is set in Chicago. But I continued reading it for the originality, the wit, and the mystery. First in a new series, DEJA WHO is a huge departure for Davidson after the 15 book Undead series. Focusing on the prickly Leah, an Insighter, somebody who can see people's past lives, the world is creative and original, the romance is sweet, and the mystery is nothing too scary.
Leah grabbed me from the beginning. She's snarky, a bit dark, and she sees people's past lives! In a world where knowing about your past lives is common, she's an in-demand commodity. But she's also trying to break the cycle of being murdered she has in every life. That's how she comes across Archer, the PI. Archer is sweet, and sensitive, almost Leah's opposite, and they make a wonderful couple. Another stand-out character is Cat, Leah's pretty much only friend, who has such a hysterical back-story I was laughing out loud reading it.
In terms of mystery, DEJA WHO isn't the most suspenseful or thrilling, but as urban fantasy with romantic undertones, it works very well. And honestly, the mystery was just at the right level for me, since I wasn't going into this looking for romantic suspense. The world is like nothing I've read before, since the idea of everybody having past lives and recalling them is super different than most urban fantasy. DEJA WHO, for me, is a keeper.
One thing about DEJA WHO that some readers may not like is the slightly strange writing style. There are frequent parenthetical asides, italicized, meant to tell the reader what the character is thinking. They are split off into separate paragraphs. It's an interesting way of writing the character's thoughts, because it's sometimes almost like the character is thinking one thing and then interrupts their own thoughts. It took a little while to get used to, but I definitely didn't mind it once I was used to it.
All in all, the first book in the Insighter series is a fun, worthwhile, read. I would definitely recommend DEJA WHO, and I know I will be desperately waiting for book two in the series!
Sexual content: Sex scenes
I will admit it: I started reading DEJA WHO solely because it is set in Chicago. But I continued reading it for the originality, the wit, and the mystery. First in a new series, DEJA WHO is a huge departure for Davidson after the 15 book Undead series. Focusing on the prickly Leah, an Insighter, somebody who can see people's past lives, the world is creative and original, the romance is sweet, and the mystery is nothing too scary.
Leah grabbed me from the beginning. She's snarky, a bit dark, and she sees people's past lives! In a world where knowing about your past lives is common, she's an in-demand commodity. But she's also trying to break the cycle of being murdered she has in every life. That's how she comes across Archer, the PI. Archer is sweet, and sensitive, almost Leah's opposite, and they make a wonderful couple. Another stand-out character is Cat, Leah's pretty much only friend, who has such a hysterical back-story I was laughing out loud reading it.
In terms of mystery, DEJA WHO isn't the most suspenseful or thrilling, but as urban fantasy with romantic undertones, it works very well. And honestly, the mystery was just at the right level for me, since I wasn't going into this looking for romantic suspense. The world is like nothing I've read before, since the idea of everybody having past lives and recalling them is super different than most urban fantasy. DEJA WHO, for me, is a keeper.
One thing about DEJA WHO that some readers may not like is the slightly strange writing style. There are frequent parenthetical asides, italicized, meant to tell the reader what the character is thinking. They are split off into separate paragraphs. It's an interesting way of writing the character's thoughts, because it's sometimes almost like the character is thinking one thing and then interrupts their own thoughts. It took a little while to get used to, but I definitely didn't mind it once I was used to it.
All in all, the first book in the Insighter series is a fun, worthwhile, read. I would definitely recommend DEJA WHO, and I know I will be desperately waiting for book two in the series!
Sexual content: Sex scenes
December 6, 2016
All four of these stars are for Leah the unapologetic chilly bitch and Archer the unabashed beta male. Their banter is silly and witty, their chemistry took me back to high school, and Archer's stream of consciousness admonitions to his body parts had me laughing out loud. I'm not a fan of the sillier end of the comedy spectrum, generally, in my urban fantasy reading, but this book hit my funny bone just right.
The last star would have been for the plot, but the resolution to Leah's murder(s) rushed by me with a blank "Whaaa?". I didn't buy the motivations of anyone involved, not even how they tied in with past lives.
The last star would have been for the plot, but the resolution to Leah's murder(s) rushed by me with a blank "Whaaa?". I didn't buy the motivations of anyone involved, not even how they tied in with past lives.
September 17, 2018
AudioBook Review:
Stars: 4 Narration 4 Story 4
A startling (if you are a fan of the Queen Betsy series) change from other titles from Davidson – Deja Who and the Insighter series are complex and initially confusing : the main character Leah Nazir is an “insighter” – in short – she can see people and ALL of their past lives – and the influences, corrections (or not) and current issues that relate to them. Honestly, the concept is wonderful and complex: we’ve all met that ‘person’ who can’t let go of a childhood issue – how bad would it be to have 5 or 10 lives lived that ALL brought those problems in? Of course Leah has difficulty getting ‘close’ to others, and while her skills are respected and she’s frequently called to help people resolve past life issues that are bleeding into their current behaviors – it’s not all a bed of roses. She sees the worst of humanity and it’s impulses: faces more than a handful of dangers, and truly, while she can ‘close off’ the need to read people, it’s always there – waiting to pounce. And, she’s got her own issues going on – her own past lives and her relationship with her more than difficult mother, and changing the course of a death that she lived in a previous life. That’s not much -right? Well, Davidson has provided a series of notes that are a “must pay attention to” series of explanations that will help you to come at Leah’s story with the basics – so her own experiences won’t seem quite so strange. But, we dive right in and Leah is in a ‘session’ helping others work through their unresolved issues from their past lives and it could simply be the intro to a bad joke: A Pirate, a Serial Killer and a former Supreme Court Justice renown for his bigotry and distasteful views are in a session with Leah, working on their ‘issues”. (See – told you it read like a joke intro) which is, sadly just another ‘workday’ for Leah. And this is where it all starts – getting the sense of what she can see and do, what her ‘job’ is, and how she can change her own current life to not be yet another murder victim – as all of her past lives were.
Enter Archer – a PI hired to keep an eye on Leah by her mother (who is hoping to bring Leah back to do her bidding) because Leah is ‘in danger” and doesn’t know, is uncomfortable with his ‘mission’ once he sees that she’s intriguing to him, and the whole fact that (he believes) she doesn’t know that there is someone out to hurt her . So, being the person he is, he decides to tell this intriguing girl what he knows – and is stabbed for his troubles. See – Leah can’t read any past lives in Archer -and that’s not only rare but something she can’t help but find relaxing, when it’s not scaring the life out of her. She knows she’s to be murdered as she’s not unlocked that trajectory in her own history, yet., and Archer could be her murderer. He’s not -and truly likes her – and would like to build a life with her – but they have to determine who the killer is and stop them before their lives can really begin. Now the fun begins – and we get to see Leah and Archer as they work together and at cross purposes, meet more of Leah’s clients and see the effects and hangovers from past lives, get some insight and straight-talk from a homeless woman in the park, and start to unravel the complex and knotted relationship that lies between Leah and her mother. Twists, turns and a solidly quirky romance that couldn’t be anything but, the story is engaging and engrossing – demanding you pay attention and enjoy the ride.
Narration for this story is provided by Nancy Wu and she presented the story crisply and cleanly – a must for the ‘introduction’ to the reincarnation theories and explanation of Insighter history, while allowing the slight cynical tone of Lean, and the giant puppy-like encouragement and ‘feel good’ utterances from Archer (Hey, you’re here and didn’t get murdered last night – YAY) that are so inappropriate yet laughable as they drill right into the heart of the situation. Subtle changes in tone and delivery gave added weight to moments that explain or will come to be more important, as well as distinguishing characters and providing a sense of intent – not overtly flagging the ‘bad guys’ up the pole, but giving a touch of malice of disquiet when they appear. This isn’t a tory that relies heavily on world-building as it is contemporary and could be the city next to you, but it is the abilities and influences as the paths of reincarnation are traveled and explored that add a ‘newness’ to the story and entice the imagination. No one builds a character like MJD can – with their crazy and intricate backstories, a self-awareness that is as sharp as it is funny while creating an empathy for them, making them someone you want to know and befriend. Grab this if you want something totally different, and DO NOT forget to pay attention to the author notes – they’ll help you to fit all of the pieces together.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Recorded Books for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: 4 Narration 4 Story 4
A startling (if you are a fan of the Queen Betsy series) change from other titles from Davidson – Deja Who and the Insighter series are complex and initially confusing : the main character Leah Nazir is an “insighter” – in short – she can see people and ALL of their past lives – and the influences, corrections (or not) and current issues that relate to them. Honestly, the concept is wonderful and complex: we’ve all met that ‘person’ who can’t let go of a childhood issue – how bad would it be to have 5 or 10 lives lived that ALL brought those problems in? Of course Leah has difficulty getting ‘close’ to others, and while her skills are respected and she’s frequently called to help people resolve past life issues that are bleeding into their current behaviors – it’s not all a bed of roses. She sees the worst of humanity and it’s impulses: faces more than a handful of dangers, and truly, while she can ‘close off’ the need to read people, it’s always there – waiting to pounce. And, she’s got her own issues going on – her own past lives and her relationship with her more than difficult mother, and changing the course of a death that she lived in a previous life. That’s not much -right? Well, Davidson has provided a series of notes that are a “must pay attention to” series of explanations that will help you to come at Leah’s story with the basics – so her own experiences won’t seem quite so strange. But, we dive right in and Leah is in a ‘session’ helping others work through their unresolved issues from their past lives and it could simply be the intro to a bad joke: A Pirate, a Serial Killer and a former Supreme Court Justice renown for his bigotry and distasteful views are in a session with Leah, working on their ‘issues”. (See – told you it read like a joke intro) which is, sadly just another ‘workday’ for Leah. And this is where it all starts – getting the sense of what she can see and do, what her ‘job’ is, and how she can change her own current life to not be yet another murder victim – as all of her past lives were.
Enter Archer – a PI hired to keep an eye on Leah by her mother (who is hoping to bring Leah back to do her bidding) because Leah is ‘in danger” and doesn’t know, is uncomfortable with his ‘mission’ once he sees that she’s intriguing to him, and the whole fact that (he believes) she doesn’t know that there is someone out to hurt her . So, being the person he is, he decides to tell this intriguing girl what he knows – and is stabbed for his troubles. See – Leah can’t read any past lives in Archer -and that’s not only rare but something she can’t help but find relaxing, when it’s not scaring the life out of her. She knows she’s to be murdered as she’s not unlocked that trajectory in her own history, yet., and Archer could be her murderer. He’s not -and truly likes her – and would like to build a life with her – but they have to determine who the killer is and stop them before their lives can really begin. Now the fun begins – and we get to see Leah and Archer as they work together and at cross purposes, meet more of Leah’s clients and see the effects and hangovers from past lives, get some insight and straight-talk from a homeless woman in the park, and start to unravel the complex and knotted relationship that lies between Leah and her mother. Twists, turns and a solidly quirky romance that couldn’t be anything but, the story is engaging and engrossing – demanding you pay attention and enjoy the ride.
Narration for this story is provided by Nancy Wu and she presented the story crisply and cleanly – a must for the ‘introduction’ to the reincarnation theories and explanation of Insighter history, while allowing the slight cynical tone of Lean, and the giant puppy-like encouragement and ‘feel good’ utterances from Archer (Hey, you’re here and didn’t get murdered last night – YAY) that are so inappropriate yet laughable as they drill right into the heart of the situation. Subtle changes in tone and delivery gave added weight to moments that explain or will come to be more important, as well as distinguishing characters and providing a sense of intent – not overtly flagging the ‘bad guys’ up the pole, but giving a touch of malice of disquiet when they appear. This isn’t a tory that relies heavily on world-building as it is contemporary and could be the city next to you, but it is the abilities and influences as the paths of reincarnation are traveled and explored that add a ‘newness’ to the story and entice the imagination. No one builds a character like MJD can – with their crazy and intricate backstories, a self-awareness that is as sharp as it is funny while creating an empathy for them, making them someone you want to know and befriend. Grab this if you want something totally different, and DO NOT forget to pay attention to the author notes – they’ll help you to fit all of the pieces together.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Recorded Books for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
December 6, 2017
Deja New (Insighter #2) by MaryJanice Davidson
Author: MaryJanice Davidson
Title: Deja New
Series: Insighter
Cover Rating:
Book Rating:
Buy This Book:
Leah Nazir lives in a world where the past can and will come back to bite you in the ass. No, not teething ghosts—reincarnation! As an Insighter, it’s Leah’s job to delve into the murky and (often) deadly former lives of her patients. And she knows a thing or two about danger after killing her mother’s murderer with the help of new beau, Archer Drake. Isn’t he the best? Now, it’s time to take their relationship to the next level, but not in any way Leah could have predicted. She and Archer head to Chicago to meet his parents—and try to figure out why Archer’s dad killed his brother decades ago. When someone tries to sabotage their investigation, Leah must decide if the Drake family past is a deal breaker…
I appreciated the second installment to this series more than the first because I felt like there was more depth this time around verses what we got in the first book however that depth also caused quite a bit of confusion as well. The past verse present lay over dialogue was a tad complex for me as the reader as well as poor Leah.
I still enjoy the new concept as the whole reincarnation thing isn't often used in romance I would like to see more of it in the future.
Confusion aside I felt Davidson did a much better job bringing the reader in this time around, making it worth a revisit to this series. My interest in the third installment is also piqued.
Until next time book lovers...
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley Publishing.
All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
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Author: MaryJanice Davidson
Title: Deja New
Series: Insighter
Cover Rating:
Book Rating:
Buy This Book:
Leah Nazir lives in a world where the past can and will come back to bite you in the ass. No, not teething ghosts—reincarnation! As an Insighter, it’s Leah’s job to delve into the murky and (often) deadly former lives of her patients. And she knows a thing or two about danger after killing her mother’s murderer with the help of new beau, Archer Drake. Isn’t he the best? Now, it’s time to take their relationship to the next level, but not in any way Leah could have predicted. She and Archer head to Chicago to meet his parents—and try to figure out why Archer’s dad killed his brother decades ago. When someone tries to sabotage their investigation, Leah must decide if the Drake family past is a deal breaker…
I appreciated the second installment to this series more than the first because I felt like there was more depth this time around verses what we got in the first book however that depth also caused quite a bit of confusion as well. The past verse present lay over dialogue was a tad complex for me as the reader as well as poor Leah.
I still enjoy the new concept as the whole reincarnation thing isn't often used in romance I would like to see more of it in the future.
Confusion aside I felt Davidson did a much better job bringing the reader in this time around, making it worth a revisit to this series. My interest in the third installment is also piqued.
Until next time book lovers...
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley Publishing.
All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has a QR code for your phone!
Read
September 19, 2016Mon avis en Français
My English review
I discovered MaryJanice Davidson with her Queen Betsy series, and although I’ve never finished it, I had a good time with this humorous, full of ideas series. When I saw that the author was engaged in a new genre and even a brand new series, I admit that I was very curious to see how it would be and I was eager to immerse myself in this first story. Moreover, the author seemed to announce new themes and I was curious to see her ideas.
From the beginning, I struggled to get into the story. The theme itself is really interesting as well as the outline of the story but I did not really managed to connect with the story or the characters. It’s a shame because as I said I was curious to learn more. But it is true that when after a half of the novel, when I saw that my feeling would not change I preferred to stop.
In this first volume we discover Leah a young woman who has the ability to discover the past lives of people. Which is a little sad in the end is that the path drawn for us is unchanging in each life and each person finds him/herself in a loop that does not change. But now, Leah tries to help them or to trap them according to what they are and it’s not an easy task. Yet she is herself mired in a vicious circle where she dies murdered and where she is determined to understand what is happening and who wants to kill her! More than that, it seems that someone follows her and he could help her more than she thought.
Like I said the idea is original and good and maybe it’s the mood I had but it wasn’t a book for me. However, I’m sure it will please to others.
My English review
I discovered MaryJanice Davidson with her Queen Betsy series, and although I’ve never finished it, I had a good time with this humorous, full of ideas series. When I saw that the author was engaged in a new genre and even a brand new series, I admit that I was very curious to see how it would be and I was eager to immerse myself in this first story. Moreover, the author seemed to announce new themes and I was curious to see her ideas.
From the beginning, I struggled to get into the story. The theme itself is really interesting as well as the outline of the story but I did not really managed to connect with the story or the characters. It’s a shame because as I said I was curious to learn more. But it is true that when after a half of the novel, when I saw that my feeling would not change I preferred to stop.
In this first volume we discover Leah a young woman who has the ability to discover the past lives of people. Which is a little sad in the end is that the path drawn for us is unchanging in each life and each person finds him/herself in a loop that does not change. But now, Leah tries to help them or to trap them according to what they are and it’s not an easy task. Yet she is herself mired in a vicious circle where she dies murdered and where she is determined to understand what is happening and who wants to kill her! More than that, it seems that someone follows her and he could help her more than she thought.
Like I said the idea is original and good and maybe it’s the mood I had but it wasn’t a book for me. However, I’m sure it will please to others.
September 9, 2016
I personally loved it! It was new and refreshing. The way the book was written was uncommon and although I got lost at some, I still got them at the end. The story was pretty unique. I loved the idea.. the mixture of reincarnation and science. The characters was lovely. Fun and a little crazy. Leah and Archer was perfect for each other. Their chemistry was soft and steady. His crush on her was adorable. They were adorable together. The supporting characters were entertaining and engaging. I liked that they involved a lot in the story and not just there for the sake of being there. Overall, I enjoyed it very much!
Beware: Some people might find the humour offensive and lame. If you like cold tsundare (a Japanese term for a character development process that describes a person who is initially cold and even hostile towards another person before gradually showing a warmer side over time.) heroine with the tendency to scare the shit out of people and hilarious dork and weird hero who talked constantly to himself, his left hand, his right hand and his d*ck... Enjoy!!
FuLL Spoilers!!
Insighters were rare and had career as professionals who were able of see into the past lives of others. (They even had their licenses and their law!!) In this world, Insighters became the crucial albeit scary part of the society. They were important because people went to them to find answers and reasons for whatever happened or done in their lives... because... what you did in past lives reflected what you did in this life. People often went to Insighters even before doctors. and there was no such thing as 'therapy' because why go to therapies when one could not really change who you were. So Insighters were crucial but that did not mean that society loved them. In fact, their profession was probably the most hated one. and why not... who liked someone to see into your past and know all the dirty little secret your past lives had done? Not many, I presumed. But there was no denied that Insighters helped people to understand their behaviors and solving their problems and even solving crimes way better than the whole law enforcement system.
Leah was an Insighter and one of the best one at that. She was smart and good at her job and she was not very nice at all. Well, most people thought that Insighters were not nice people since they were basically past-peeping toms. Leah knew that and she accepted that and she embraced that. she was professional and direct and did not care about other opinion. She was practically COLD and standoffish. And who could blame her when her daily job was to insight people and tell them the truth. And the truth always hurt and some people never really accepted them. In her case, some people were most people... because only people with problems came to her or recommended to her. Leah was cold and standoffish and she was so damn good with her job... so she continued to do it. She only had one friend and had no life whatever. She also had her very own killer, a person who would eventually murder her as he/she did in their past lives. And Leah had been waiting for it to come. With the way her life was going, she couldn't wait for him to come fast enough.
Then entered the man named Archer, an EYE-PEE with numerous part-time job resumes to boast. (I think it was 20) Archer was hired to stalk Leah and with unexpected star-crossed lover destiny, he crushed on her HARD!! Leah was not conventionally beautiful but Archer found everything about her to his liking. She was a definition of SUPER-HOTTIE and a PERFECTION to him. (It was so very cute to read about how he thought about her or his thinking in general... he was a dork) He decided to quit his part-time job number sixteen (EYE-PEE) and approached Leah. And to his surprise and confuse, she stabbed him. (WOW, that escalated fast, LOL!!) Unbeknownst to Archer, Leah had already found out from her only friend, Cat, an ex-mayor super rich homeless woman, that Archer had been stalking her. She thought that he was her long awaited killer. So when he finally approached her, Leah decided to break the circle of fate by stabbing him first instead of letting him stab her. Fortunately for Archer, Leah was no killer so she unconsciously stab him where it was not lethal... in his shoulder. Archer was totally panicky and weird as he coped to the fact that his future sweetie (he said that himself) just stab him. He was almost understanding and forgiving albeit hysterical. Until she stabbed him again. Again because he told Leah that he was hired by her psycho of a mother. Yep, her life was sux because she was going to die but her childhood life sux harder because her mother was a selfish insensitive self-indulgent bitch who had Leah through sperm donation just to gain publicity. And THAT was how Archer met his future shark-eyed sweetie and girlfriend and possibly wife Leah.
Upon clarifying misunderstanding and confession of eternal love(?) and affection. Leah and Archer decided to confront Nellie, Leah's B-listed ex-actress mother. Leah wanted to know why Nellie (whom she called 'IT') hired a PI to stalk her. Archer just wanted to know the answers for all the weirdness he saw in Nellie's house. The answer (to Leah's question) was that IT wanted Leah to make a come-back with her for a mother-daughter fuckfest new TV series!?!? Let just say, Leah was disgusted and speechless.. (so was I!!) Leah decided to end their nonsense of a relationship once and for all. For the very first and last time, she threw the ultimatum that she would never pay attention to IT again. Leah and Archer left.
With heavy heart lifted, Leah decided to pursue what was in front of her... Archer or her attraction to Archer. She was somehow drawn to him because he was a life-blind or possibly a rasa. He was a person whom she could not see into the past because EITHER 1. He was just a person who regrettably could not see his own past. 2. He had no past. OR 3. (the most impossible) He broke his circle and had a blank state. She could not read him which luckily meant her mind would not be bombarded with images or thoughts. It also helped that he was tall and made her feel so wonderful and pretty. She pounced on him. Archer was certainty overjoyed to let her jump his bone but since he was ultimately a totally goooooooooood guy. He finally and painfully rejected Leah enthusiastic advance moves. Instead, He explained that he would not allow their relationship to be anything else but a journey to marriage and demanded full relationship benefits before letting her take advantage of him, to the suffering of his boner, Lieutenant Winky. Lieutenant Winky was not a happy camper that day. However, Archer and Leah had better understanding of one another.
Life went on. Leah with her various clients. Archer (assumingly) with his whatever number part-time job. Leah and Archer enjoyed each other company as well as Cat's company. Along the way, Archer decided to help finding Leah's incoming killer by listing all the possible potential killers. Life was almost good and dandy until a call changed everything.
Leah had ignored the call from IT. The second one, she reluctantly received only to hear weird breathing noise and decided to hang up on IT again. The next day, a call from detective Preston made her so afraid and frightened that she was panic and left her house with only one shoe on and parked illegally in the middle of street. She rushed to Archer's house because she thought that something happened to him. That call from the detective had made her realized how much she wanted Archer in her life. Fortunately nothing happened to Archer except the case of major blue-ball. She didn't realize until later that the detective call was not about Archer but her mother.
Her mother was dead, killed by multiple head injury from Leah's Emmy award. Leah won “Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy" when she was ten. She was a child actress btw to her own horror of a childhood. Leah just knew that it was her killer that killed her mother. Leah didn't care about Nellie... or at least she had decided not to care anymore but she never wanted IT to die... now that IT was dead, she was okay with it but couldn't help became hysterical about it. She was not herself when she gloated the detective that she hated her mother and had every motive to kill her. She was arrested. Archer was horrified and panic too when his snuggle sweetie (he also said that) was going to jail. In the end, Leah was easily released because noone... and I mean NOONE messed with Insighters. They had all the privileges as the people who held the secrets of other people. (They were like the legal blackmailers!) So Leah was released but now the killer had surfaced and on the loose. Leah was running out of time. But this time, she also realized that something was different. This time, the killer had killed someone close(?) to her. There was only 2 other people, Cat and Archer. Leah was determined to protect them. So she took the easy and stupid way out. She demanded Cat to go hide in the Ritz hotel which she refused because of no streaming and instead went to Felix hotel. She also broke up with Archer which he refused, of course, and implied that he was life-blind (which was an insult). Leah rejected his L-word and walked out on him. Leah was almost as heart-broken as Archer who was heart broken. But she decided that she could not wait long enough for the killer to come to her and that she was ready. She even realized, in her time apart from Archer, that she finally wanted to live and actually break away from her circle of fate.
The killer finally appeared, not exactly whom she expected but she finally realized the true killer. They reasoned, failed and attacked. Leah managed to stab the killer only to miss the fatal position... again. Archer, of course, appeared to the rescue, somehow. He ended up breaking her circle of fate. Leah was finally a clean state and they finally had their first tumble in bed. They were happily ever after (?) The end... for now hopefully.
Archer's thought... he was damn funny!
Weird day weird day weird day weird goddamned day!
That was about all Archer had time for while Leah was backing him into the empty living room, snogging him
(mental note: stop watching so much BBC)
like she was—ha, ha!—gonna get murdered tomorrow. Or something. One of Elaine’s lines from Seinfeld
(God, is that why I’m crushing so hard on Leah? she reminds me of a dour Elaine? God, what if she dances as horribly as Elaine does, the whole “full body dry heave set to music” thing? that would be so hot)
flashed through his brain: “We made out like our plane was going down!” Yep. That’s just how Leah was kissing him. Like she wanted to eat him while also pushing him away as she vigorously boned him and then never called him again on her way to get murdered.
(Arrgghh yes that’s it escape Lieutenant Winky fly be free you lucky bastard!)
He shoved his hands in his jeans and hunched while they trudged, Cat because she was loaded down with Target bags of just-purchased travel toiletries, he because he was dead like a dodo inside. Thanks to Leah, his heart was extinct. I need to remember to never say that out loud because, even to me, it sounds lame. “Pretty please? God probably owes me a favor, right? I do all sorts of stuff for Him.” Part-time job number five: bookstore clerk at St. Peter’s.
4.5 Stars!!!!
Beware: Some people might find the humour offensive and lame. If you like cold tsundare (a Japanese term for a character development process that describes a person who is initially cold and even hostile towards another person before gradually showing a warmer side over time.) heroine with the tendency to scare the shit out of people and hilarious dork and weird hero who talked constantly to himself, his left hand, his right hand and his d*ck... Enjoy!!
FuLL Spoilers!!
Insighters were rare and had career as professionals who were able of see into the past lives of others. (They even had their licenses and their law!!) In this world, Insighters became the crucial albeit scary part of the society. They were important because people went to them to find answers and reasons for whatever happened or done in their lives... because... what you did in past lives reflected what you did in this life. People often went to Insighters even before doctors. and there was no such thing as 'therapy' because why go to therapies when one could not really change who you were. So Insighters were crucial but that did not mean that society loved them. In fact, their profession was probably the most hated one. and why not... who liked someone to see into your past and know all the dirty little secret your past lives had done? Not many, I presumed. But there was no denied that Insighters helped people to understand their behaviors and solving their problems and even solving crimes way better than the whole law enforcement system.
Leah was an Insighter and one of the best one at that. She was smart and good at her job and she was not very nice at all. Well, most people thought that Insighters were not nice people since they were basically past-peeping toms. Leah knew that and she accepted that and she embraced that. she was professional and direct and did not care about other opinion. She was practically COLD and standoffish. And who could blame her when her daily job was to insight people and tell them the truth. And the truth always hurt and some people never really accepted them. In her case, some people were most people... because only people with problems came to her or recommended to her. Leah was cold and standoffish and she was so damn good with her job... so she continued to do it. She only had one friend and had no life whatever. She also had her very own killer, a person who would eventually murder her as he/she did in their past lives. And Leah had been waiting for it to come. With the way her life was going, she couldn't wait for him to come fast enough.
Then entered the man named Archer, an EYE-PEE with numerous part-time job resumes to boast. (I think it was 20) Archer was hired to stalk Leah and with unexpected star-crossed lover destiny, he crushed on her HARD!! Leah was not conventionally beautiful but Archer found everything about her to his liking. She was a definition of SUPER-HOTTIE and a PERFECTION to him. (It was so very cute to read about how he thought about her or his thinking in general... he was a dork) He decided to quit his part-time job number sixteen (EYE-PEE) and approached Leah. And to his surprise and confuse, she stabbed him. (WOW, that escalated fast, LOL!!) Unbeknownst to Archer, Leah had already found out from her only friend, Cat, an ex-mayor super rich homeless woman, that Archer had been stalking her. She thought that he was her long awaited killer. So when he finally approached her, Leah decided to break the circle of fate by stabbing him first instead of letting him stab her. Fortunately for Archer, Leah was no killer so she unconsciously stab him where it was not lethal... in his shoulder. Archer was totally panicky and weird as he coped to the fact that his future sweetie (he said that himself) just stab him. He was almost understanding and forgiving albeit hysterical. Until she stabbed him again. Again because he told Leah that he was hired by her psycho of a mother. Yep, her life was sux because she was going to die but her childhood life sux harder because her mother was a selfish insensitive self-indulgent bitch who had Leah through sperm donation just to gain publicity. And THAT was how Archer met his future shark-eyed sweetie and girlfriend and possibly wife Leah.
Upon clarifying misunderstanding and confession of eternal love(?) and affection. Leah and Archer decided to confront Nellie, Leah's B-listed ex-actress mother. Leah wanted to know why Nellie (whom she called 'IT') hired a PI to stalk her. Archer just wanted to know the answers for all the weirdness he saw in Nellie's house. The answer (to Leah's question) was that IT wanted Leah to make a come-back with her for a mother-daughter fuckfest new TV series!?!? Let just say, Leah was disgusted and speechless.. (so was I!!) Leah decided to end their nonsense of a relationship once and for all. For the very first and last time, she threw the ultimatum that she would never pay attention to IT again. Leah and Archer left.
With heavy heart lifted, Leah decided to pursue what was in front of her... Archer or her attraction to Archer. She was somehow drawn to him because he was a life-blind or possibly a rasa. He was a person whom she could not see into the past because EITHER 1. He was just a person who regrettably could not see his own past. 2. He had no past. OR 3. (the most impossible) He broke his circle and had a blank state. She could not read him which luckily meant her mind would not be bombarded with images or thoughts. It also helped that he was tall and made her feel so wonderful and pretty. She pounced on him. Archer was certainty overjoyed to let her jump his bone but since he was ultimately a totally goooooooooood guy. He finally and painfully rejected Leah enthusiastic advance moves. Instead, He explained that he would not allow their relationship to be anything else but a journey to marriage and demanded full relationship benefits before letting her take advantage of him, to the suffering of his boner, Lieutenant Winky. Lieutenant Winky was not a happy camper that day. However, Archer and Leah had better understanding of one another.
Life went on. Leah with her various clients. Archer (assumingly) with his whatever number part-time job. Leah and Archer enjoyed each other company as well as Cat's company. Along the way, Archer decided to help finding Leah's incoming killer by listing all the possible potential killers. Life was almost good and dandy until a call changed everything.
Leah had ignored the call from IT. The second one, she reluctantly received only to hear weird breathing noise and decided to hang up on IT again. The next day, a call from detective Preston made her so afraid and frightened that she was panic and left her house with only one shoe on and parked illegally in the middle of street. She rushed to Archer's house because she thought that something happened to him. That call from the detective had made her realized how much she wanted Archer in her life. Fortunately nothing happened to Archer except the case of major blue-ball. She didn't realize until later that the detective call was not about Archer but her mother.
Her mother was dead, killed by multiple head injury from Leah's Emmy award. Leah won “Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy" when she was ten. She was a child actress btw to her own horror of a childhood. Leah just knew that it was her killer that killed her mother. Leah didn't care about Nellie... or at least she had decided not to care anymore but she never wanted IT to die... now that IT was dead, she was okay with it but couldn't help became hysterical about it. She was not herself when she gloated the detective that she hated her mother and had every motive to kill her. She was arrested. Archer was horrified and panic too when his snuggle sweetie (he also said that) was going to jail. In the end, Leah was easily released because noone... and I mean NOONE messed with Insighters. They had all the privileges as the people who held the secrets of other people. (They were like the legal blackmailers!) So Leah was released but now the killer had surfaced and on the loose. Leah was running out of time. But this time, she also realized that something was different. This time, the killer had killed someone close(?) to her. There was only 2 other people, Cat and Archer. Leah was determined to protect them. So she took the easy and stupid way out. She demanded Cat to go hide in the Ritz hotel which she refused because of no streaming and instead went to Felix hotel. She also broke up with Archer which he refused, of course, and implied that he was life-blind (which was an insult). Leah rejected his L-word and walked out on him. Leah was almost as heart-broken as Archer who was heart broken. But she decided that she could not wait long enough for the killer to come to her and that she was ready. She even realized, in her time apart from Archer, that she finally wanted to live and actually break away from her circle of fate.
The killer finally appeared, not exactly whom she expected but she finally realized the true killer. They reasoned, failed and attacked. Leah managed to stab the killer only to miss the fatal position... again. Archer, of course, appeared to the rescue, somehow. He ended up breaking her circle of fate. Leah was finally a clean state and they finally had their first tumble in bed. They were happily ever after (?) The end... for now hopefully.
Archer's thought... he was damn funny!
Weird day weird day weird day weird goddamned day!
That was about all Archer had time for while Leah was backing him into the empty living room, snogging him
(mental note: stop watching so much BBC)
like she was—ha, ha!—gonna get murdered tomorrow. Or something. One of Elaine’s lines from Seinfeld
(God, is that why I’m crushing so hard on Leah? she reminds me of a dour Elaine? God, what if she dances as horribly as Elaine does, the whole “full body dry heave set to music” thing? that would be so hot)
flashed through his brain: “We made out like our plane was going down!” Yep. That’s just how Leah was kissing him. Like she wanted to eat him while also pushing him away as she vigorously boned him and then never called him again on her way to get murdered.
(Arrgghh yes that’s it escape Lieutenant Winky fly be free you lucky bastard!)
He shoved his hands in his jeans and hunched while they trudged, Cat because she was loaded down with Target bags of just-purchased travel toiletries, he because he was dead like a dodo inside. Thanks to Leah, his heart was extinct. I need to remember to never say that out loud because, even to me, it sounds lame. “Pretty please? God probably owes me a favor, right? I do all sorts of stuff for Him.” Part-time job number five: bookstore clerk at St. Peter’s.
4.5 Stars!!!!
March 24, 2017
My very first book by author MaryJanice Davidson and I find myself...undecided. The author came highly recommend to me via one of her other series which looking at that blurb I have an idea what I'll be getting into. However, when it comes to Deja Who, I am undecided.
Breakdown of the story is this: Leah is an Insighter. She can see the past lives of her clients and tries to help them. Leah's past lives have been very tragic being murdered every time. Her mom, who Leah does NOT talk to, hires a P.I. to keep an eye out on her. Thinking he's the man that is supposed to kill her in this life, she confronts him. Well really, she attacks him. Turns out it's not him but Leah finds Archer fascinatingly attractive because he is life-blind. Leah cannot 'see' him. He is equally attracted to her and joins in her crazy quest to find her would-be killer before he strikes.
What really attracted me to the story was this whole Insighter business. Insight as in the ability to see past lives, communicate with them, how they shape who the person is now. It took me a while to understand it all, but once I grasped the concept, I loved it. I can see how having this constant ability to 'see' people could make Leah harsh and abrupt. That's a nice way of saying, she was kind of a bio-tch. It's like the preverbal, obnoxious pick a card, pick a card, pick a card questions shoved in your face with it never ending. So knowing that, discovering a person who is life-blind, IE no past lives to see, would definitely be a bonus. It helps that Archer is also attracted to her. There’s quite a bit of sexual tension, yes/no, we should, we can’t that make everything quite comical. Of course there is a killer on the loose out to get Leah and that made for a good mystery with the eventual ‘and the killer is…’ reveal had me not too surprised and yet still I was surprised.
You would think with that mix of Insighter, romantic interest, a killer and a mystery to solve I would have liked the book. I did, for the most part, enjoy Deja Who. So what is keeping me from giving this book a higher rating and being madly in love with this book? I didn’t expect Deja Who to be humorous. I know that sounds lame but honestly, I expected a serious book. I expected strong, tough characters. I expected to gasp and be sitting on the edge of my seat absorbing this Insighter’s world. Instead, I was chuckling over the humor, sometimes the silliness of the actions by the characters. Archer was just so, not P.I. material. I liked his character but then things would come out of his mind that would give me pause, and not in a positive way. In a way, he was a buzzkill to the flow of the story. Leah and Cat, they I really liked. They certainly made the story riveting, and the whole Insighter thing, yes that really worked. However, the whole lack of seriousness, that was a turn off.
So now I sit here feeling undecided. It’s not the author’s fault I was unprepared for the humor. It’s just sad to think the possibilities regarding Insighters, Leah, Archer and Cat are all going to be buried in humor. To be honest, now that I know what to expect, I do intend to continue with the series. I just know I will need a different mindset when I read future books.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine.
Stars – 3.5, Flames – 2.5
September 6, 2016
4.5
Originally posted at Vampire Book Club
The theory goes: Everyone has a past life. Taking it a step further, there are people, Insighters, who are born with the ability to see people’s past lives. Leah Nazir is one of the best Insighters in the business. She helps people whose past lives may be giving them problems in their present life. Just because Leah is an Insighter doesn’t mean she’s problem free. In fact, Leah’s been waiting most of this life to be murdered, as she’s been murdered in various lives of her past.
That is, until Archer Drake enters the picture. He’s a PI who has been hired by Leah’s mother to keep an eye on her. What piques Leah’s interest right away about the sweet, silly, keeps-a-running-tally-of-all-the-jobs-he’s-had PI is the fact that Leah can’t “see” him. Life-blind is what the Insighters term it. People who are unable to see their own past lives. But those who are opposed to the Insighters’ reign of knowledge believe there may be people who are tabula rasa: clean slate. Archer throws Leah’s beliefs into a tailspin, and not just because she’s instantly attracted to him either. Now Leah’s questioning her resolve to just sit around waiting to be murdered again. But does she, or can she, change the cycle?
MaryJanice Davidson does a great job kind of reviving the reincarnation trope. I absolutely love the idea of people’s past lives and the way it’s presented here Is. So. Interesting. What we see in Déjà Who is the idea that people cannot get away from their pasts. That who they were will continue to directly affect who they are and who they will be. We see through Leah’s various clients that this statement rings pretty true. But then Leah is thrown for a curveball when she meets Archer and very subtly we begin to see a different side to things as Leah comes around too. It’s very cleverly done.
The sardonic, jaded, kooky humor was spot on for me. I laughed out loud at quite a few placed while reading, but I would understand how some people might be put off by Leah’s chilly exterior. I felt like this was a book where you needed to get and stay in the flow of the story to really appreciate the whip smart dialogue going on.
I didn’t really even mind the insta-love between Leah and Archer. For me, the idea of them not being drawn to each other right away would have been completely out of context for the overall tone of the book.
I generally loved everything about this book. But as I’m sitting and writing out this review, I start to think back on some plot holes/inconsistencies. This happens mainly with Leah’s past lives. When we actually learn about some of Leah’s past lives, all of those lives don’t actually meet that fate (to give credit some do), but I feel like if your heroine has a fear of death because she’s been going through it for centuries, then we should get more examples than what we’re given within the story.
Regardless of some of the inconsistencies, this was a very interesting, engaging read. The balance between history and ruminations on nature vs. nurture (or past lives vs. present) kept me hooked. The fact that it was downright hilarious in parts helps a lot too, and I cannot wait to see where Leah finds herself after events that take place in Deja Who.
Originally posted at Vampire Book Club
The theory goes: Everyone has a past life. Taking it a step further, there are people, Insighters, who are born with the ability to see people’s past lives. Leah Nazir is one of the best Insighters in the business. She helps people whose past lives may be giving them problems in their present life. Just because Leah is an Insighter doesn’t mean she’s problem free. In fact, Leah’s been waiting most of this life to be murdered, as she’s been murdered in various lives of her past.
That is, until Archer Drake enters the picture. He’s a PI who has been hired by Leah’s mother to keep an eye on her. What piques Leah’s interest right away about the sweet, silly, keeps-a-running-tally-of-all-the-jobs-he’s-had PI is the fact that Leah can’t “see” him. Life-blind is what the Insighters term it. People who are unable to see their own past lives. But those who are opposed to the Insighters’ reign of knowledge believe there may be people who are tabula rasa: clean slate. Archer throws Leah’s beliefs into a tailspin, and not just because she’s instantly attracted to him either. Now Leah’s questioning her resolve to just sit around waiting to be murdered again. But does she, or can she, change the cycle?
MaryJanice Davidson does a great job kind of reviving the reincarnation trope. I absolutely love the idea of people’s past lives and the way it’s presented here Is. So. Interesting. What we see in Déjà Who is the idea that people cannot get away from their pasts. That who they were will continue to directly affect who they are and who they will be. We see through Leah’s various clients that this statement rings pretty true. But then Leah is thrown for a curveball when she meets Archer and very subtly we begin to see a different side to things as Leah comes around too. It’s very cleverly done.
The sardonic, jaded, kooky humor was spot on for me. I laughed out loud at quite a few placed while reading, but I would understand how some people might be put off by Leah’s chilly exterior. I felt like this was a book where you needed to get and stay in the flow of the story to really appreciate the whip smart dialogue going on.
I didn’t really even mind the insta-love between Leah and Archer. For me, the idea of them not being drawn to each other right away would have been completely out of context for the overall tone of the book.
I generally loved everything about this book. But as I’m sitting and writing out this review, I start to think back on some plot holes/inconsistencies. This happens mainly with Leah’s past lives. When we actually learn about some of Leah’s past lives, all of those lives don’t actually meet that fate (to give credit some do), but I feel like if your heroine has a fear of death because she’s been going through it for centuries, then we should get more examples than what we’re given within the story.
Regardless of some of the inconsistencies, this was a very interesting, engaging read. The balance between history and ruminations on nature vs. nurture (or past lives vs. present) kept me hooked. The fact that it was downright hilarious in parts helps a lot too, and I cannot wait to see where Leah finds herself after events that take place in Deja Who.
February 18, 2017
Well. I really wanted to LOVE this book. In reality though, I just liked it ok. I enjoyed it very much in the beginning as I've always found MJD hilarious. This book reminded me of reading her social media posts: Random, funny and quick witted. But most importantly, quirky. So maybe this book was too much of a good thing? I don't know, but about half way through I lost steam and was bored. I did push through to the last 100 pages before I finally quit though. I guess I think that this book could have used more plot... and then have all that wit and humor spicing it up? Maybe then it would have been awesome. At any rate, I don't expect to be picking up the next book. I feel like I've had my fill of this series. :( But I still have my fingers crossed that MJD will come up with new awesome series. :)
September 12, 2016
Leah Nazir is an Insighter. Reincarnation is her business. But while her clients' pasts are a mess, Leah's is nothing short of tragedy. She's been murdered. A lot. If left to that bitch, destiny, it'll happen again. Leah wants to know who's been following her through time, and who's been stalking her in the present...
P.I. Archer Drake has been hired by Leah's mother to keep an eye on her. But the more time he spends watching, the more he finds himself infatuated. Before long, he even finds himself agreeing to help find the person who wants her dead. Over and over again.
Now going full-on "rewind," Leah hopes it can stave off the inevitable. After all, she's grown fond of this life - and even fonder of nerdy Archer. But changing her pattern means finding out who her killer is today. And as Leah fears, that could be anyone she has come to know and trust. Anyone.
Review:
I have always heard good things by this Author and when this new series came up for review, I thought now was the time to try her out.
Her writing style was fun to read with a twist of sarcasm. I liked the quirky characters. Leah was very prickly and interesting. Archer was persistent and a little annoying sometimes. I liked the teasing aspect of their relationship and they really don't get past first base until the end of the book.
The biggest thing I liked about the book was the concept. Leah is a therapist "insighter" for people who are having issues with their past lives. I found Leah (who has her own issues) and those of her patients the most interesting part of the story. All the possibilities this concept could bring is very exciting to think about. Do read the foreword it helps with the story. There is one thing I have to say though...Are there no people with happy past lives???
I eagerly anticipate the next book in the series!
4.5Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
P.I. Archer Drake has been hired by Leah's mother to keep an eye on her. But the more time he spends watching, the more he finds himself infatuated. Before long, he even finds himself agreeing to help find the person who wants her dead. Over and over again.
Now going full-on "rewind," Leah hopes it can stave off the inevitable. After all, she's grown fond of this life - and even fonder of nerdy Archer. But changing her pattern means finding out who her killer is today. And as Leah fears, that could be anyone she has come to know and trust. Anyone.
Review:
I have always heard good things by this Author and when this new series came up for review, I thought now was the time to try her out.
Her writing style was fun to read with a twist of sarcasm. I liked the quirky characters. Leah was very prickly and interesting. Archer was persistent and a little annoying sometimes. I liked the teasing aspect of their relationship and they really don't get past first base until the end of the book.
The biggest thing I liked about the book was the concept. Leah is a therapist "insighter" for people who are having issues with their past lives. I found Leah (who has her own issues) and those of her patients the most interesting part of the story. All the possibilities this concept could bring is very exciting to think about. Do read the foreword it helps with the story. There is one thing I have to say though...Are there no people with happy past lives???
I eagerly anticipate the next book in the series!
4.5Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
July 9, 2016
I had fun with this book. Leah Nazir can see people's past lives and is trying to figure out who keeps murdering her in hers. Archer Drake has been hired to protect her and falls instantly in love. Both main characters have the quirky personalities you expect in a MJD book. I'm quite interested to see how she develops this series.
June 12, 2017
I have dearly loved MaryJanice Davidson's Queen Betsy series. This is another funny series, however, not nearly as good as Queen Betsy.
Unfortunately, I find it hard to like the main character, but I ADORE her main squeeze, Archer!
Am looking forward to book #2.
Unfortunately, I find it hard to like the main character, but I ADORE her main squeeze, Archer!
Am looking forward to book #2.
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November 25, 2017
I snorted out loud every time Archer said anything about Leah being a sexy hammerhead shark. This book was silly, and ridiculous, and maybe even a little crazy - but I loved it. The world MJD created was fascinating, and her humorous writing style makes anything she writes a true joy to read.
Read
January 30, 2017Another book with all the things I love most about MaryJanice Davidson books! Funny, interesting, snappy dialogue, adorable characters and lots of fun reading. Looking forward to the next installment!
March 23, 2021
an excellent premise but the verbal diarrhoea of the main characters was relentless and never-ending. Not only did the conversations flow too thick and fast but the characters thoughts were thrown in, just to really give you eye whiplash. The characters also came across as rather YA, childish and self-indulgent. Their romantic connection likewise was full on and a little smothering - 'she was like a shark with dark dreamy eyes' - honestly, it's enough to have you throw up a little as he pines for her.
The story in the end was underwhelming - and considering the width and potential of the insighter world - it was very noticeable how narrow and sad the plot was.
I loved the mother - IT - and her relationship with her daughter is THE best thing in this book, pity the author squandered it.
The story in the end was underwhelming - and considering the width and potential of the insighter world - it was very noticeable how narrow and sad the plot was.
I loved the mother - IT - and her relationship with her daughter is THE best thing in this book, pity the author squandered it.
September 8, 2016
Deja Who by MaryJanice Davidson is the first book in her new Insighter series. It is my first book by Davidson, and I have admit it was interesting, at times fun, and also kind of confusing. The premise of the story is about Insighters, who have the ability to read people and the lives they lived in the past. It started off a bit wild, giving us a look at our heroine, Leah, who is a Insighter consultant that helps people face their current and past lives. It kind of threw me off, as she can see the lives of this one person, some being famous murderers. Leah’s job is to help them improve their lives and accept the past, especially those with nightmares.
Enter our hero, Archer, who was hired to watch over Leah, by her mother. Archer, is a bit weird, but he quickly expresses his love for Leah. He is also the one person she cannot read. Leah herself, is in a predicament. In each of her lives, she keeps getting murdered, and is trying find the person who follows her into each life. Archer will join hands with Leah to find her killer, and stop him before he kills her again.
It is difficult to write this review, as it really was a different type of read. I was also not used to Davidson’s snarky and funny dialogue , which was fun at times, and even annoying at times. I liked Leah and even Archer, though he was a bit quirky.
What follows is an excellent story about finding her killer, and her falling in love with Archer. The last third of the book was exciting, with a good resolution. If you enjoy a different storyline that delves partly in the past, and fun snarky dialogue, then this would be a good series for you to try.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Enter our hero, Archer, who was hired to watch over Leah, by her mother. Archer, is a bit weird, but he quickly expresses his love for Leah. He is also the one person she cannot read. Leah herself, is in a predicament. In each of her lives, she keeps getting murdered, and is trying find the person who follows her into each life. Archer will join hands with Leah to find her killer, and stop him before he kills her again.
It is difficult to write this review, as it really was a different type of read. I was also not used to Davidson’s snarky and funny dialogue , which was fun at times, and even annoying at times. I liked Leah and even Archer, though he was a bit quirky.
What follows is an excellent story about finding her killer, and her falling in love with Archer. The last third of the book was exciting, with a good resolution. If you enjoy a different storyline that delves partly in the past, and fun snarky dialogue, then this would be a good series for you to try.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
September 8, 2016
What did I just a read??? I pre ordered this book quite awhile ago because I've enjoyed everything I've ever read written by this author. Imagine my surprise when I discovered this book is a HOT MESS. It's hard for me to believe that this book was written by the same author who in the past has written witty, hilarious and well paced books. This book could've been so good. The premise was actually something new and that doesn't happen that much anymore. Instead a great idea got wasted on a shitty book. Just a side note one bad book will not turn me off this author, she's written far more good than bad.
July 30, 2016
Deja Who is the first in a new series by Mary Janice Davidson. Full of the all the witty, snarky dialogue that you'd expect from Ms. Davison. It's an intriguing premise for this series, but at times a bit confusing. By the end, the rough edges were smoothing out. I'd like to see more of Leah, Archer, and Cat.
Read
August 28, 2016DNF @ 12%, so I won't be rating this one.
I just can't get into this book. It started off confusing, and I just don't think the style of the story/writing is for me.
I just can't get into this book. It started off confusing, and I just don't think the style of the story/writing is for me.
September 11, 2016
the romance aspect was so juvenile that I found myself continually skimming over most of the book. very dissatisfied.
January 25, 2018
There's something about Deja Who that I could easily connect to watching a four-car pile-up; you know you should stop watching (or in this case reading) but you just can't turn away.
Now I'm going to preface this review with a disclaimer: I used to love MaryJanice Davidson. In the beginning, I loved Betsy and, despite what some reviewers say about Fred being a carbon copy of Betsy, I loved Fred. All that bitchy commentary really made me laugh. It missed the mark in Deja Who and I wanted to DNF it by around page 60. I resisted because I've already DNF'd three books this week. At 4 AM this morning, I wished I'd DNF'd.
Deja Who takes place in a world where most of the population remembers their past lives and rely on Insighters to help them explain their current actions - actions which are usually written off because they were a sociopath for five lives so why bother changing now?
Leah is an Insighter and she hates her job; she's just waiting for her murderer to show up and fulfil his end of their endless cycle. But he's late and Leah is getting restless. Her abusive mother (who has been equally as abusive and unbearable in every life) is so desperate to revive her failed screen career that she hires an amateur PI to watch Leah, finding the one anomaly in this life which could break the cycle.
Deja Who was jumbled and confused, rifled with inconsequential distractions from the actual plotline. I don't care if her client was a serial killer or a judge in a past life, get on with the story!
It was filled to the brim with a messy, disorganised narrative that did not help the reader gather any sort of connection to the protagonists. The sequence of events jumped back and forth between chapters and perspectives - a muddled distracting non-linear storytelling style which did not work for this book.
MaryJanice's style of writing has always read similar to Deja Who, her characters have always been witty and bitchy, and her descriptors and their inner monologue have always made for hilarious reading. This time around it was just annoying.
The characters felt very two dimensional, specifically Leah and Archer. The pair of them might as well have been the same person because their dialogue and internal monologue sounded EXACTLY the same. The number of times I had to reread a batch of dialogue to figure out who exactly was speaking which line was frightening!
Another of my major issues with this book was the constant exposition which only served to waste words and slow the action right down as soon as the writing started to "show" rather than "tell." There was far too much time spent with characters digesting and discussing events and motivators, leaving the readers with nothing to imagine or figure out for themselves.
I was also unimpressed with the constant hinting at Archer's past to drag out an additional book. It was annoying and completely unnecessary and only served to detract from the plotline: Leah figuring out how to break the cycle.
Let me be perfectly honest, I loved the concept of this book. It was shiny and new and I was excited about a new MaryJanice Davidson series. I also follow the author on Facebook and enjoy her daily insights into her life, which are hilarious.
Unfortunately, the execution has let me down and I won't be picking up the next book. I am also beginning to wonder if maybe I have simply outgrown MaryJanice's writing style. To figure that out, I'll have to pick up another of her books but I'm not willing to do that at this moment.
Now I'm going to preface this review with a disclaimer: I used to love MaryJanice Davidson. In the beginning, I loved Betsy and, despite what some reviewers say about Fred being a carbon copy of Betsy, I loved Fred. All that bitchy commentary really made me laugh. It missed the mark in Deja Who and I wanted to DNF it by around page 60. I resisted because I've already DNF'd three books this week. At 4 AM this morning, I wished I'd DNF'd.
Deja Who takes place in a world where most of the population remembers their past lives and rely on Insighters to help them explain their current actions - actions which are usually written off because they were a sociopath for five lives so why bother changing now?
Leah is an Insighter and she hates her job; she's just waiting for her murderer to show up and fulfil his end of their endless cycle. But he's late and Leah is getting restless. Her abusive mother (who has been equally as abusive and unbearable in every life) is so desperate to revive her failed screen career that she hires an amateur PI to watch Leah, finding the one anomaly in this life which could break the cycle.
Deja Who was jumbled and confused, rifled with inconsequential distractions from the actual plotline. I don't care if her client was a serial killer or a judge in a past life, get on with the story!
It was filled to the brim with a messy, disorganised narrative that did not help the reader gather any sort of connection to the protagonists. The sequence of events jumped back and forth between chapters and perspectives - a muddled distracting non-linear storytelling style which did not work for this book.
MaryJanice's style of writing has always read similar to Deja Who, her characters have always been witty and bitchy, and her descriptors and their inner monologue have always made for hilarious reading. This time around it was just annoying.
The characters felt very two dimensional, specifically Leah and Archer. The pair of them might as well have been the same person because their dialogue and internal monologue sounded EXACTLY the same. The number of times I had to reread a batch of dialogue to figure out who exactly was speaking which line was frightening!
Another of my major issues with this book was the constant exposition which only served to waste words and slow the action right down as soon as the writing started to "show" rather than "tell." There was far too much time spent with characters digesting and discussing events and motivators, leaving the readers with nothing to imagine or figure out for themselves.
I was also unimpressed with the constant hinting at Archer's past to drag out an additional book. It was annoying and completely unnecessary and only served to detract from the plotline: Leah figuring out how to break the cycle.
Let me be perfectly honest, I loved the concept of this book. It was shiny and new and I was excited about a new MaryJanice Davidson series. I also follow the author on Facebook and enjoy her daily insights into her life, which are hilarious.
Unfortunately, the execution has let me down and I won't be picking up the next book. I am also beginning to wonder if maybe I have simply outgrown MaryJanice's writing style. To figure that out, I'll have to pick up another of her books but I'm not willing to do that at this moment.
November 12, 2016
Deja Who is the first book in the Insighter series by MaryJanice Davidson. Leah Nazir is an Insighter. Reincarnation is her business. But while her clients' pasts are a mess, Leah's is nothing short of tragedy. She's been murdered. A lot. If left to that bitch, destiny, it'll happen again. Leah wants to know who's been following her through time, and who's been stalking her in the present. P.I. Archer Drake has been hired by Leah's mother to keep an eye on her. But the more time he spends watching, the more he finds himself infatuated. Before long, he even finds himself agreeing to help find the person who wants her dead. Now going full-on "rewind," Leah hopes it can stave off the inevitable. After all, she's grown fond of this life, and even fonder of nerdy Archer. But changing her pattern means finding out who her killer is today. And that could be anyone she has come to know and trust. Anyone.
Deja Who has a little bit of everything. There is some worldbuilding, to understand the importance of past lives, and Leah's job to see and explain how those lives could be effecting the daily lives of her clients. The characters are all more than a little quirky, but self- aware of their flaws and idiosyncrasies, which made their conversations, thoughts, and expositions that much more interesting and strange. Leah, Cat, and Archer are all odd people, but in a way that makes them enjoyable to read- most of the time. I have to admit that on occasion it got to be too much and their quirks crossed the line between fun and cute to hit weird and annoying. I found that the mystery part of the book got off to a slow start, because of the world and character building that was necessary to get readers to care about our main players. However, once the mystery got going it was unstoppable and moved very quickly toward the resolution. I liked returning to the quirky writing of Davidson, but am not sure if I will keep following the series. I think that will depend on the blurb for the next book.
Deja Who is full of wacky characters, with a solid mystery interwoven through the insanity. Fans of Davisdon's Queen Betsy series, and other quirky characters she has written, will enjoy this book as well.
Deja Who has a little bit of everything. There is some worldbuilding, to understand the importance of past lives, and Leah's job to see and explain how those lives could be effecting the daily lives of her clients. The characters are all more than a little quirky, but self- aware of their flaws and idiosyncrasies, which made their conversations, thoughts, and expositions that much more interesting and strange. Leah, Cat, and Archer are all odd people, but in a way that makes them enjoyable to read- most of the time. I have to admit that on occasion it got to be too much and their quirks crossed the line between fun and cute to hit weird and annoying. I found that the mystery part of the book got off to a slow start, because of the world and character building that was necessary to get readers to care about our main players. However, once the mystery got going it was unstoppable and moved very quickly toward the resolution. I liked returning to the quirky writing of Davidson, but am not sure if I will keep following the series. I think that will depend on the blurb for the next book.
Deja Who is full of wacky characters, with a solid mystery interwoven through the insanity. Fans of Davisdon's Queen Betsy series, and other quirky characters she has written, will enjoy this book as well.
December 1, 2017
I was approved to read the second book in this series on NetGalley and I had (coincidentally since I really enjoy this author’s previous books) purchased the first book when it was released so I decided to read this so I’d know what was going on going into the second book. And I’m sure glad I did because the plot line in this book is so creative and different that I think I might have had a little more trouble just jumping into the second book, though I’m sure there is enough background info in the second book to get readers up to speed. This book is about Leah Nazir, an Insighter who is trying not to get murdered during this lifetime. An Insighter is a certified person, almost like a therapist but in this world they can also help the person discover who they were in past lives (using a specific medication) and hopefully help them figure out how to break the cycle of their wrongdoings in this lifetime. I thought this was a really creative and interesting plot.
Overall I liked this book. As I’ve said I thought it was a creative and interesting plot. The characters tended to babble a little though, which I didn’t love all the time. And the way their conversations jump around can sometimes be confusing and hard to keep up with. For the most part I stayed engaged throughout the whole story, although in a couple points it did get a little dry. One of the parts that I found particularly interesting was that the author used a lot of real historical references for people’s past lives, including Westley Allan Dodd and Gilles de Rais. I always like when a book can tie in a historical aspect. This was a pretty good book, though dark at times. I would recommend it though, it was very interesting.
Overall I liked this book. As I’ve said I thought it was a creative and interesting plot. The characters tended to babble a little though, which I didn’t love all the time. And the way their conversations jump around can sometimes be confusing and hard to keep up with. For the most part I stayed engaged throughout the whole story, although in a couple points it did get a little dry. One of the parts that I found particularly interesting was that the author used a lot of real historical references for people’s past lives, including Westley Allan Dodd and Gilles de Rais. I always like when a book can tie in a historical aspect. This was a pretty good book, though dark at times. I would recommend it though, it was very interesting.
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