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Toil & Trouble #2

Blackbirds & Bourbon

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For a charm of powerful trouble...

Persephone Gosse just can't catch a break.Life isn't supposed to be this hard, even for a witch. Facing a trial for a crime she didn't commit, tangling with bounty hunters looking to take her head, and trying to ignore the growing disdain of the magical world, Seph is barely holding it together.

Her confusion about Jack Frost isn't helping. Is her ex trying to save her, or easing her way into an early grave? With Yule approaching and judgement looming, Seph has to decide who to trust...

And who to kill.

179 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 7, 2016

53 people are currently reading
102 people want to read

About the author

Heather R. Blair

22 books219 followers
Heather R. Blair wrote her first book in the first grade and hasn't stopped since. Back then it was all about horses, now it's pretty much the dark, sexy and shivery.

She lives in the frozen north of Minnesota, near that big gorgeous lake called Superior and enjoys hiking when the snow melts. She also does murals, rides herd on four monsters(otherwise known as children), is slightly obsessed with Martin Freeman, British television and things that go bump in the night.

She loves reading,(duh!)and interacting with other bibliophiles and authors. Feel free to bug her at will and sign up for her newsletter to get shiny new promos, free stuff and MORE!

https://linktr.ee/heatherrblairauthor

Check out works in progress and upcoming releases on pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherr4300/

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5 stars
151 (40%)
4 stars
143 (38%)
3 stars
68 (18%)
2 stars
6 (1%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Profile Image for Deborah.
3,846 reviews499 followers
July 6, 2019
Re-read 4th - 5th July 2019.

This is still a fabulous book but I wasn’t quite as tolerant this time around. Seph annoyed me more. Yes she’s still quirky but she’s also getting very close to dim witted on occasion.

Original review.
After finishing 'Sixpence and Whiskey' I moved straight onto this one, I'm so glad I didn't have to wait.
This is another crazy entertaining read as Seph tries to work out exactly what's going on and who she can she trust.
It's the same band of characters as before plus some new ones and Jack, again is he the hero or the villain.
This is a another short book at only 155 pages and for the most part it's jam packed with interesting characters, humour and action but it started slowly, I assumed it was because I'd just finished 'Sixpence' with its cliffhanger ending but it was more than that for a start there's no Jack early on and I'm not sure about the whole Aimee part, it seemed completely unnecessary I can only assume she plays a part in the final book.
I also have to say that while I love Seph for the most part, I mean she's quirky with a smart mouth on her what's not to love but at times she comes across as not too bright, it bothered me a little in the previous book but I ignored it because I liked her so much but here she comes very close to a TSTL moment and doesn't seem to grasp the most obvious things. While it didn't spoil this book for me, the fact that she's so quirky helps I had to mention it because I spend a lot of time moaning about stupid females in books.
The ending was a huge cliffhanger and so it's straight onto 'Roses and Rye' for me.
Profile Image for Ashleyjo.
826 reviews522 followers
August 22, 2016
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I don't normally start with the end first, but FUCK! That's just wrong. That's cruel. That's bitchy. That's a move outta...

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Yet, I loves it!!!

Thank Kindle witches that the wait for September isn't long... or I might go straight up fangirl postal on the author's message board. Just sayin~

Moving on back....

Plot

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Our witchy FMC, Seph, is on a quest for answers as to who is out to kill her and why?!? She's got to avoid Jack f'ing with her heart and mind and try to figure out whose side he's on once and for all. Oh, and try and protect her loved ones from being collateral damage.

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No, Nik, that'd be the sexual tension between Jack and Seph. No worries. Things finally come to a head before leaving you with a limp on the cliffhanger.

Why Four Vs Five Stars?

From 25% onward, I'd certainly give this 5 stars. I have three issues with the first 25% of the book that leave it at a solid four:

1. This book is only 155 pages and published within four months of book one.

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There's no need to waste a good portion of the first 25% backtracking to remind readers of book one's events. The author keeps each time brief and condensed, but it's still very unnecessary and tedious to get through through that many passages like this one..

After promising the werewolves safe passage through his lands, he led Jack and me right to them when we told him they had Carly and Sy."


2. The entire 14-15 page Aimee scene felt like it was tacked on to the book.

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The scene, Aimee, Aimee's kids, the convo, the time spent telling us who Aimee is... NONE of it served a single purpose in the character nor plot development.

3. It's 22% before Jack makes an appearance. Me...

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Writing

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This author has the whole damn package - style, attention to detail, interest, fun, humor.

Like in book one, this is some stellar editing and writing.

From character to plot, everything develops & is paced perfectly .. Well, AFTER the 25% mark.

Book two continues the FMC's snarky voice, which I absolutely adore:))

Overall

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I just need book three in my hands... Uhm, now! Please.
Profile Image for Renegade ♥.
1,339 reviews
March 15, 2019
4 1/2 stars

"The witch of witches spawns sisters four;
Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall
Scattered like leaves, but Queens all

To Summer the King of Winter falls
World destroyed, all vanquished halls..."


There's nothing like a snippet of doomsday prophecy to throw one's whole life into chaos and turmoil, right?

(Whether you know about it or not...)



Persephone Goss (aka Seph) realizes that, while sticks and stones may break one's bones, assassins, werewolves, Council inquiries, frame jobs and family secrets, as well as one hot, unpredictable, dark and dangerous (kinda ex but not really) lover - among other myriad challenges - could break one's spirit.

And words?

Well, those suckers can kill you.

Unfortunately, Seph's caught between a rock and a hard place because ignorance is not bliss in these circumstances and, in her world, knowledge isn't always power. Or at least, not the kind of power that fixes everything neatly and ties it with a pretty bow. This bow could probably trip or even strangle a gal...

So what's a confused, frightened but smart, sometimes reckless, and seriously pissed off witch to do? Seek out answers, of course. Confront the darkness, both inside and out. Even if it means taking on forces she can't begin to imagine. And the price? Well that just might be the lives of people she loves.

Or her own.



(Fairy tale karma's an unapologetic bitch.)

I knew going into this book that it was only Act II, that there would be craziness, there would be loss, there would be confusion amidst the revelations, and that, somewhere along the way, hearts would be ripped out, stomped on and held up to the light to see if there was anything left worth salvaging.

So, despite some of the shock from fellow readers/reviewers about everything that happened and how things ended, I wasn't surprised. I was waiting for it. I was expecting it. I'd prepared myself for that freakin' cliff (even though I wasn't sure exactly what it was going to look like) and then flung myself off of it because I know Ms. Blair will catch us in the third and final book. We've just got to be patient (argh!) and believe that we won't go splat when we hit the ground...

You see, I've got a theory.

Interpretation is everything.

And I don't think Seph is the only one in for a wake up call when the fit hits the shan. Everything is happening according to a plan greater than any of the players can see. Including us. That's what makes it so intriguing. Part of the fun with this serial is peeling back the layers, one by one, and experiencing the magic as the pieces float, shimmer and fall into place, one by one...



Another part is the fascinating dynamics between Seph and Jack, and all that is slowly revealed between them. As far as I'm concerned, . Summer is coming, without a doubt, but Winter is already here...

So I'm ready, Ms. Blair. Like yesterday.

Bring it on. Pretty please.

With a big ol' bow on top.

*** A copy of this book was received from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Links to my other reviews for this trilogy:

Sixpence & Whiskey (Toil and Trouble, Book #1)

Roses & Rye (Toil and Trouble, Book #3)
Profile Image for ✰♊ Angie ♊✰.
325 reviews157 followers
January 6, 2018
description

*100% accurate representation of me after reading the last page of this book.*

I. am. so. hooked.
This is the 2nd installment in this serial and I'm so relieved I have the next one ready to go.
I CANNOT be left hanging like this book has left me.
I'm cracking open the next book NOW.

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Profile Image for Sarah.
Author 22 books766 followers
July 9, 2016
I'm in a love/hate relationship with Heather R Blair right now. I love her for the incredibly fantastic story she is weaving and hate her because I have to wait for the rest of the story. Jack is so F**king hot, and I truly love Seph. I can gush about this book for hours, but I'll wait to do that in my final review. I do have a theory about the prophecy, that it's not exactly as it seems, but I've been known to be wrong (a lot lol), so I'll just keep my mouth shut. Another 5-star installment. P.S. That tingle you feel on the back of your neck, yes, that's me stalking you, Heather.
Profile Image for Umaiya ❄️Ramblings of a Scattered Mind❄️.
1,128 reviews382 followers
July 7, 2017

Okay so, truth, I was not expecting that.
The last book ended with me not liking Seph or Frost. Well this one made a believer outta me cause DAMN!

I really liked Seph in this. And Frost too, I guess.
The last book was like a 2.5 and this ones a 3.75 almost 4.
That's a big jump.
Especially since the reviews are the only reason I bothered picking this up in the first place.
I can't wait to start the next book!
Also, I'm very happy with the length of this book, it felt so happening and fast paced, not a dull moment.

And that Author's Note, Lol! Loved It!
Oh and Heather, you can rest easy. I saw what you did there. Not gonna chase you with pitchforks. ;)
Profile Image for Nicla.
416 reviews346 followers
February 6, 2017
Thank goodness the next book in the series is out because that cliffhanger is evil! It was another fast paced and addictive read with plenty of twists and turns that took me completely by surprise.
Profile Image for Ann Lou.
573 reviews87 followers
February 4, 2019
There is a lot going on in this second book and some questions answered BUT there's only one thing I want to ask, dear author.. Why did you do that to Georg???? 😢😭😢 Why?
Profile Image for Veronica Rosa.
Author 11 books76 followers
June 14, 2016
So this review states it took me two weeks to read this book. That is so not true. I devoured this story and finished it in one day. However, I had also badgered (again!) poor Heather into letting me have an early copy. I couldn't help it. PS, this only works because we're friends, so please, don't badger her. I do it out of love. ;)

Now, because we're friends, that doesn't mean I'm pulling any punches with this review. I'm not sugarcoating or blowing smoke. I seriously loved this book.

Jack has me twisted in knots. Is he good? Isn't he? I want to believe the best in him, but damn it, he's done some dodgy things. We see a lot more of him in this story and I understand where he's coming from. Doesn't mean I want him hurting Seph.

And wow, Seph. Not many women in stories I adore, but she is one of them. She's had a harsh go of it lately, although I'm not saying what because of spoilers. She's been a little mopey, which was justified and at one point she decides to wrestle the beast to the ground, so to speak. It kinda backfires on her, but she doesn't care. She's determined to defeat the prophecy told about her.

If you haven't read this series, you should. I'm now anxious for the last one in the series and this book isn't even out yet! Arrrg. Why do I do this to myself?
Profile Image for Lakshmi C.
346 reviews107 followers
June 28, 2016
5 Dark Chocolate Bars

The wait has been agonizing but it was definitely worth it.

Heather Blair is one of my top 10 authors, ( top 3 to be honest) and has a knack for blasting cliches into oblivion. The story is narrated by Seph who has been through a life altering event. This was a treat as Seph has a smart, snarky and stubborn perspective. She is not into avoidance, would rather confront issues head on than fret over them. Seph discovers that she has been in the dark about a lot of things, her reaction to this was shocking and had me worried for some time.

Jack Frost is the epitome of an unreliable character and he was incredible, as always. He has an agenda that no one else is privy to and Seph is on her guard.
The Dark Council is a group of ancient, powerful, extremists who are fixated on Seph and she has nowhere to hide.

I always give a wide berth to stories that are dark, its just not my piece of cake.
Due to this author, I appreciate the darker elements of storytelling - pain, betrayal and heartbreak. When done right, they add to the tension and intensity of the story.


Why you must read this story?
Fascinating characters, a clever plot, wicked world building, innovative concepts, a gushing fangirl...( Wait, that's me. )
The cliffhanger is unbelievable, Severus Snape would be so proud.

I need the third book, right now. Maybe Heather is open to Inception....

I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kat Desi.
Author 2 books73 followers
July 8, 2016
Half of me wants to hug Heather for writing such a damn good book while the other half wants to choke her because the frustration I felt reading this book–!



It's been a while since I let myself get lost in a book. I've been in the worst reading slump of my life lately and while it took me a bit to finish Blackbirds & Bourbon, I was more than a little engrossed in what was happening with it. It's been a day or so since I finished it but up until now, I can still feel the after-effects of it. PLEASE HELP ME!

Blackbirds & Bourbon picks up after the events of Toil & Trouble. It starts with a bang–throws in another bang in the middle–and ends with a bang, a huge one at that! Now after experiencing this roller coaster ride of a book, I'm DYING to get my hands on book 3. I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT! So many questions left unanswered!

Now that my dramatics are done (sorta), let me try to write up a formal review... Oh, who am I kidding? Read the freaking book (but only after you've read Toil & Trouble) and see for yourself how awesome this series is!

Also, why do I have a feeling that Heather is cackling with evil glee as she reads this review?

This ARC was received from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,384 reviews897 followers
September 11, 2016
Although book 2 of the Toil and Trouble series starts a little slower, is it by no means less. It is MORE. So many revelations. The writing continues to be stellar and fast paced and if my body hadn’t demanded sleep I would’ve read this in one sitting. Well, with the exception of breaks for liquid beverages and such.

As some questions are answered, many more arise. This author is killing me! I need all the answers and I need them like now!

And that ending! That ending! How can I hate and love such a thing at one time? Heather R. Blair knew exactly what she was doing when she added the last period to this book. She is one cruel, evil mastermind and I am loving her for it!
Profile Image for Cheesecake.
2,800 reviews511 followers
dnf
November 15, 2023
DNF around half way.
I just don't get into the author's writing style. It's too frenetic and the intrigue is a little thin and obvious.
Most of the characters are dislikeable... especially her sisters.
I do like the world building and the heroine. Which is why I kept reading after the first book.
Profile Image for Princess J. Antoinette.
1,000 reviews106 followers
November 28, 2017
Oh wow... This book had a lot of action with also the conclusion of the first book. But damn in one fell swoop the author made me cry and then give me a steamy sex scene and then made me cry again.. I'm just an emotional roller coaster here.

Okay I'm quite satisfied with this book 2 and I'm ready to dive into book 3 with gusto...

(Ughhh I hate damn cliffhangers)

Overall rating:
4.75 - Pretty damn Good!
Profile Image for Chantal ❤️.
1,361 reviews913 followers
September 5, 2016
Ahhhh it's killing me here!!! This is torture! Why oh why do they do this to us. We just want a kickass funny story and we are left with the mother of all cliffs here.
Can't say I love this book here.
The next one better rock cause I am so emotional right now.
How could the author do this to us!?
Profile Image for Jessica Frances.
Author 29 books404 followers
October 15, 2019
This was such a fantastic continuation to this story. There was more depth to the world Blair has created, plus we finally get a lot more answers (and more questions) for what is going on. I love Seph so much. She's such a strong, fun, hilarious woman. This book had me on the edge of my seat, and the way that ended!!! Let's just say I'm so relieved that I'm reading this now that the series is complete. This one made me smile, laugh, gasp, swoon, and tear up. I definitely recommend this series for paranormal readers. Go back to the first book and get started! You won't regret it.
Profile Image for Beth.
844 reviews75 followers
December 8, 2016
Wow --that ending was brutal & yet kinda sweet? Definitely buy both 2 & 3 if you want to read because I need to know what happened after the cliffhanger.

Also SMUT warning -- several pages of getting back with her ex.
Profile Image for R.C. Matthews.
Author 80 books285 followers
July 5, 2016
Blackbirds & Bourbon continues the saga of Seph & Jack Frost. Seph is still the spunky ... and a bit reckless ... heroine that you can't help but root for. If you love snarky female characters, then you're going to love this story. I'm not so sure about her sisters, yet. I don't care for how secretive they all are. As far as I'm concerned, family is family, and you don't keep family in the dark. But maybe they'll redeem themselves in the last installment of this series. The verdict is still open on that.

Jack Frost is still a bit cold and cunning, but completely yummy. I really didn't know what to make of him until that ending!!!! OMG - that ending!!!! If you despise cliffhangers, then I highly suggest you wait until book three is published before you start this series because the cliffhangers are wicked mean.

A lot happens in this installment - so much so that my head was spinning a little while trying to keep up. Also, the author broke my heart ... I mean really broke my heart. Enough said, you'll find out why.

I've got my eye out for book three in the series. Can't wait to read the conclusion!

Profile Image for April   ♥"LOS" ♥.
3,098 reviews61 followers
June 26, 2016
I think I liked this book even better than the first one Sixpence & Whiskey (Toil & Trouble #1) by Heather R. Blair !

What I really like about this series is how creatively the characters are written. Persephone "Seph" and her sisters are not your typical witches and don't even get me started on Jack Frost. After Jack broke Seph's heart nine years ago he keeps showing up in her life at the most inopportune times. While at times he plays the hero, there is a darker side of him that has me worried.

With the Dark Council breathing down her neck and assassins on her tail, Seph doesn't have many people she can trust. And finally putting her faith in Jack Frost may be the biggest mistake she can make.

I'm really excited for the final book in this series because this one ended with a huge cliffhanger. I would definitely recommend this series if you're looking for a PNR/fairy tale story with some twists.

**ARC given in return for an honest review**

Profile Image for ✮ rach ✮.
688 reviews113 followers
February 25, 2018
I liked this better than the first. Probably because Jack is starting to grow on me. There’s more going on and I don’t want to waste time writing a review so I can get on with the next book!!

Having said that, Luna needs to fucking die!! And it needs to be bad so she can really suffer. Because Georg! Talk about a knife to the fucking heart!!! And that ending???!!!

I love this world :)
Profile Image for Talltree.
2,081 reviews25 followers
October 27, 2016
Would have rated this one more except it has a personal trigger:
Death of a well-liked supporting character...
So rating it 3.5 stars only.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Runningrabbit.
1,387 reviews99 followers
February 21, 2018
Black or White

This was a great follow up to book one and I’m already chomping on the bit for book three.

Things really heat up in this book with both disaster and clarification as many of the things happening in Seph’s life start to come to light and make sense of many aspects of her past. Jack remains front and center as the tall, dark, and deadly lover as his past explains his present.

I can not wait to see where this series goes next.
Profile Image for Sawyer Belle.
Author 6 books37 followers
August 29, 2016
4.5 Stars on this one, and the only reason it went down a half star is because of a particular frustration I felt while reading this story.

It irritated the crap out of me how everyone around Seph knew everything about Seph but kept everything from Seph. I mean, the woman is almost 27 - not a 13-year-old who can't handle the truth. The reality of her world was literally out to get her and everyone thought it would be best if she didn't know what was going on??? Especially knowing the type of person she is - to confront things head on? Then, they get pissed at her when she gets herself into trouble. I was like....if you had told her what was going on, she wouldn't have done what she did!! Maybe it's because I read books 1 and 2 back-to-back that having her kept in the dark the whole first book and then again the whole second book, I was very frustrated with that part when reading this one. She was more than capable of knowing the truth and handling it well.

Apart from that one niggle - I loved this one as much as the first. Same praise as well: great characters, dialogue, pacing, etc. And seriously.......Jack Frost......I think winter may be becoming my favorite season!!

Can't wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Amber.
870 reviews
December 3, 2019
Damn cliffhanger endings!
Fast paced adventurous read, and I want to immediately delve into the next book, but can’t. Oh, the frustration!
Highly recommend this addictive series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews

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