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Annalise Storm Chronicles #1
Case: 0
It’s the year 2330. At the end of the twenty-second century, the human race has divided into two distinct groups—purebloods and the ‘modded’. Those who are unfortunate enough to be genetically modified are now nothing but servants for their pureblooded masters.
Living in this time, you know your place, and you do not cross the line. So, when a violent death occurs in the Bronze District, Annalise is ordered to take this as her trial run at Divinity PD to prove that she can do the job as a member of the Human Possession Department.
To defy her father’s wish to marry her off, and keep her Chief happy, she is determined to solve this murder by any means necessary—even if it means going to districts she has only read about in textbooks and fighting her forbidden feelings for her servant.
With internal battles, dirty politics, and sinister secrets, just how exactly will Annalise solve her Case: 0? And more importantly, will she live to see her next one?
Living in this time, you know your place, and you do not cross the line. So, when a violent death occurs in the Bronze District, Annalise is ordered to take this as her trial run at Divinity PD to prove that she can do the job as a member of the Human Possession Department.
To defy her father’s wish to marry her off, and keep her Chief happy, she is determined to solve this murder by any means necessary—even if it means going to districts she has only read about in textbooks and fighting her forbidden feelings for her servant.
With internal battles, dirty politics, and sinister secrets, just how exactly will Annalise solve her Case: 0? And more importantly, will she live to see her next one?
280 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2016
105 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
May Freighter
27 books240 followersMay Freighter is an award-winning, internationally bestselling author from Ireland. She writes Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Sci-Fi Mysteries that will keep you entertained, mystified, and hopefully craving more. Currently, she's attempting to parent two little monsters and hasn't slept in over 4 years.
Who needs sleep these days, anyway?
On days when May can join her fictional characters on an adventure, stars must align in the sky and meteors will probably rain down. So keep an eye out.
Her hobbies are photography, drawing, plotting different ways of characters' demise, and picking up toys after her kids. Not exactly in that order, either.
Sign up to May's Urban Fantasy Newsletter and get DESIRED for free here!
Sign up to May's Fantasy Newsletter and get HEART OF A THIEF for free here!
Website: https://mayfreighter.carrd.co/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/May-Freighter/...
FB page: https://www.facebook.com/authormayfre...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayfreighter/
*****
HELENA HAWTHORN SERIES:
- Alexander: Memoirs (Prequel)
- Russian Roulette
- Demon Gates
- Crumbling Control
- Desired (Spin-off Novella)
- Alexander: Monochrome Interview
- Fated Origins
- Cherished (Spin-off Novella)
- Dark Affiliations
- Blood Witch
- Twisted Truths
- TBA
*****
ANNALISE STORM CHRONICLES:
- Case: 0
- Case: 1
- Case: 2
*****
EMPIRE OF SHATTERED CROWNS
- Queen of Deception
- Queen of Ashes
- Queen of Hope
- Queen of Hearts
- Queen of Dante
- Queen of Vows
- Queen of Revelations (TBA)
- Queen of Sacrifice (TBA - Final)
Who needs sleep these days, anyway?
On days when May can join her fictional characters on an adventure, stars must align in the sky and meteors will probably rain down. So keep an eye out.
Her hobbies are photography, drawing, plotting different ways of characters' demise, and picking up toys after her kids. Not exactly in that order, either.
Sign up to May's Urban Fantasy Newsletter and get DESIRED for free here!
Sign up to May's Fantasy Newsletter and get HEART OF A THIEF for free here!
Website: https://mayfreighter.carrd.co/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/May-Freighter/...
FB page: https://www.facebook.com/authormayfre...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayfreighter/
*****
HELENA HAWTHORN SERIES:
- Alexander: Memoirs (Prequel)
- Russian Roulette
- Demon Gates
- Crumbling Control
- Desired (Spin-off Novella)
- Alexander: Monochrome Interview
- Fated Origins
- Cherished (Spin-off Novella)
- Dark Affiliations
- Blood Witch
- Twisted Truths
- TBA
*****
ANNALISE STORM CHRONICLES:
- Case: 0
- Case: 1
- Case: 2
*****
EMPIRE OF SHATTERED CROWNS
- Queen of Deception
- Queen of Ashes
- Queen of Hope
- Queen of Hearts
- Queen of Dante
- Queen of Vows
- Queen of Revelations (TBA)
- Queen of Sacrifice (TBA - Final)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 10, 2016
I am not a sci-fi fan by any means but I loved this story, so, when May asked for my help to edit it, I jumped at the chance! It was a book which captivated me from the beginning, and despite the futuristic setting and different world, I revelled in it and found myself wondering if that is a possible way the human race will go.
Our heroine, Annalise, is an easily relateable character, especially where it concerns her forbidden feelings for her slave, Mavel. Throw in a murder mystery, a dashing Prince Charming, and plenty of other twists and turns, I can guarantee you will hang around for Annalise's next case!
Our heroine, Annalise, is an easily relateable character, especially where it concerns her forbidden feelings for her slave, Mavel. Throw in a murder mystery, a dashing Prince Charming, and plenty of other twists and turns, I can guarantee you will hang around for Annalise's next case!
December 6, 2017
A Futuristic Crime Thriller
It appears as though technology has advanced yet civilization has digressed back into segregation based on purebloods versus modded people, who are labeled as beasts, robbed of their rights. When I learned about Annalise and her relationship with Mavel, I could see the tension of this segregation; she is from the purebloods and he is her servant, forced to do as she says when it’s a direct order, yet maintaining his ability to voice his opinions when they differ from hers. Although the book is mostly fast-paced, the middle section does slow down as I was immersed in more details about the complex case she has been given to solve when she joins the police force. Although Annalise is born to a rich, influential family, she strains against the role she has been forced to play all her life as the daughter of a politician until it reaches a boiling point of acceptance or loss forever. This is an intriguing story which leaves a lot of room to wonder what will happen in the next book in the series.
It appears as though technology has advanced yet civilization has digressed back into segregation based on purebloods versus modded people, who are labeled as beasts, robbed of their rights. When I learned about Annalise and her relationship with Mavel, I could see the tension of this segregation; she is from the purebloods and he is her servant, forced to do as she says when it’s a direct order, yet maintaining his ability to voice his opinions when they differ from hers. Although the book is mostly fast-paced, the middle section does slow down as I was immersed in more details about the complex case she has been given to solve when she joins the police force. Although Annalise is born to a rich, influential family, she strains against the role she has been forced to play all her life as the daughter of a politician until it reaches a boiling point of acceptance or loss forever. This is an intriguing story which leaves a lot of room to wonder what will happen in the next book in the series.
November 30, 2016
The bouncer stopped her in the long queue leading to Landon’s Bar with a curt “no freaks allowed”! Sneering, she told him to scan her – PUREBLOOD – and she went inside. The patrons stared and scowled at her. She was beautiful – but purebloods were normally not. So they assumed she had to be an “alabaster”, servant class, one of those who had been genetically modified in the past before the Modded Wars stopped them. Someone threw something hard and hit her head. Others shouted out derogatory remarks. She fell to the floor and, in a fury, rose and began to fight.
Annalise was headed from her home in the Golden District to the Human Possession Department of the Divinity PD, her beast/servant driving her to her first day of work. Mavel had already told her about the incident at Landon’s Bar and the crazed attack by the alabaster. She entered the HPD office and the Chief handed her Case: 0 which would be a test of whether she belonged in that division or not. She had expected to shadow the officer evaluating her for 3-6 months, but she was to start her case immediately. There are twists, turns, and danger before she will reach the truth! Will she and her partner survive what is to come?
The author creates a magnificent picture of this world that perfectly lets the reader understand the society’s structure, both the color-named districts and the classification of each social group in the population. Everything is very regimented! I loved this book! The characters are outstanding, well developed and with distinct personalities. This was a really good book with a great storyline and lots of suspense! I highly recommend it!
Annalise was headed from her home in the Golden District to the Human Possession Department of the Divinity PD, her beast/servant driving her to her first day of work. Mavel had already told her about the incident at Landon’s Bar and the crazed attack by the alabaster. She entered the HPD office and the Chief handed her Case: 0 which would be a test of whether she belonged in that division or not. She had expected to shadow the officer evaluating her for 3-6 months, but she was to start her case immediately. There are twists, turns, and danger before she will reach the truth! Will she and her partner survive what is to come?
The author creates a magnificent picture of this world that perfectly lets the reader understand the society’s structure, both the color-named districts and the classification of each social group in the population. Everything is very regimented! I loved this book! The characters are outstanding, well developed and with distinct personalities. This was a really good book with a great storyline and lots of suspense! I highly recommend it!
September 25, 2016
As much it pains me I finished book at record time since I LOVED IT and I coudln´t put it down. So instead reading one or two chaps per day I did read like more then half of book at one go. I think its the one of the best described situations where our society goes. It was the highest time that someone showed where our society is dooming us. To world divided, twisted and dark future which is not good for the masses of common people.
I recommend this book as I did the other series. The analysing ways of the crime scene and strategic investigation shows author´s intelligence and her understanding of many other genres as fantasy.
JOB WELL DONE May. I repeat it again, you are my favourite author . The best book ever even for those who dislike bloodbath this is awesome.
I recommend this book as I did the other series. The analysing ways of the crime scene and strategic investigation shows author´s intelligence and her understanding of many other genres as fantasy.
JOB WELL DONE May. I repeat it again, you are my favourite author . The best book ever even for those who dislike bloodbath this is awesome.
December 4, 2016
It is a time in the future, when society is divided into classes, of Pure blood and those that have been changed by genetic manipulation.
This was Annalise Storm's first posting within the Divinity PDF. The department was to the Human Possession Department and although the crew that were already veterans in the department gave her a hard time, it wasn't anything a rookie Detective wouldn't expect.
The case should have been a straight forward beast possession situation, but it became a lot higher up the political process than that and almost cost Annalise her life and Marvin, her beast servant, his freedom.
An interesting introduction to the land of the future and the law enforcement agencies that keep the population safe.
Yes, a very entertaining book.
This was Annalise Storm's first posting within the Divinity PDF. The department was to the Human Possession Department and although the crew that were already veterans in the department gave her a hard time, it wasn't anything a rookie Detective wouldn't expect.
The case should have been a straight forward beast possession situation, but it became a lot higher up the political process than that and almost cost Annalise her life and Marvin, her beast servant, his freedom.
An interesting introduction to the land of the future and the law enforcement agencies that keep the population safe.
Yes, a very entertaining book.
September 25, 2016
I've never thought that I'd say this,but this book made me reconsider my thoughts about Sci-fi books.
It is something new , it's a whole different world but the morals and how people think are beautiful. I liked how Annalise refused to let other make her do -what it should be done more than let her do the right thing. She didn't let their ideas cloud her judgment.
Just because our society proves of something doesn't mean that it's always right and this book has the best examples for that.
A mixture of mystery,thriller and of course romance,to me there's nothing better than that.
Can't wait to read the next book it it! <3
It is something new , it's a whole different world but the morals and how people think are beautiful. I liked how Annalise refused to let other make her do -what it should be done more than let her do the right thing. She didn't let their ideas cloud her judgment.
Just because our society proves of something doesn't mean that it's always right and this book has the best examples for that.
A mixture of mystery,thriller and of course romance,to me there's nothing better than that.
Can't wait to read the next book it it! <3
October 12, 2016
this was a great book with a lot of plot twist in suspicious characters. I hate books that you can figure out who did it in the first couple of chapters. this is not that type of book I couldn't figure out till the end and I still have questions that I know they will be answered in the next book so I can't wait to get it this gives you all kinds of mystery and suspense there's even a little paranormal characters and some romance thrown in just to keep it interesting. if you like good writing and mysterious characters this is a must-read for you. you will just be only too happy to then follow up reading the next one. thank you May for sharing your talent with us
October 30, 2016
When I started this book I had no idea what to expect. I am glad I had no preconceived expectations it was a truley wonderful experience. The notion of purebloods and modded is a fascinating and thrilling concept. Characters that gripped you and wrenched your heart with all the thrilling plot twists. I am looking forward to book 2 already!
November 16, 2016
*recieved an arc in exchange for an honest review*
Riveting, romantic, suspenseful!! Annalise Storm and Mavel are a strong team in a world where purebloods and the moddeds are separated. Reading on is one twist after another!
Riveting, romantic, suspenseful!! Annalise Storm and Mavel are a strong team in a world where purebloods and the moddeds are separated. Reading on is one twist after another!
November 29, 2016
Amazing book I admire Annalise and am so happy she made the police force. I hope she will overcome all the injustice and make things right. Totally unpredictable ending and lots of twists and turns keeps you in suspense
May 24, 2017
I received a copy in exchange of my honest review. Thank you so much!
Another great book written by this author who I began to admire for her hard work. I love it! It kept me entertained and curious. I even daydreamed about Mavel a little
The plot is created in a future world that has other life standards and hierarchy, a world formed by purebloods and genetically modified humans; a situation that started the wars between the two sides. After almost two centuries, the community is still divided in people pro-modded and anti-modded, in royalty and servants.
The action was well paced and the reading easy to follow. I really loved the prologue; it was very catchy and made me want to read the book immediately.
I liked very much the way the author organized the society, I think she created a picture easy to imagine and understand everyone’s place in it. Also, the characters were well defined each one with its role to play.
We have Annalise, the female-character, a young officer, freshly employed and her servant, Mavel, a beast. The relationship between them is harmonious, they have known each other since they were children and secretly they love each other (even they don’t admit it) but considering the rules of the society they live in, they could never be together and be free at the same time.
I admired Annalise for her determination and her loyalty toward her servant. Even if she was raised in a family that hates the modded, she is different and she treats them equally.
The story has suspense and action enough to make you read until the end. I honestly loved it because it reached me, the author succeeded to touch my mind and heart.
A book that will make you think more about the world we are living and the direction it goes. Enjoy. It’s worth it!
Another great book written by this author who I began to admire for her hard work. I love it! It kept me entertained and curious. I even daydreamed about Mavel a little
The plot is created in a future world that has other life standards and hierarchy, a world formed by purebloods and genetically modified humans; a situation that started the wars between the two sides. After almost two centuries, the community is still divided in people pro-modded and anti-modded, in royalty and servants.
The action was well paced and the reading easy to follow. I really loved the prologue; it was very catchy and made me want to read the book immediately.
I liked very much the way the author organized the society, I think she created a picture easy to imagine and understand everyone’s place in it. Also, the characters were well defined each one with its role to play.
We have Annalise, the female-character, a young officer, freshly employed and her servant, Mavel, a beast. The relationship between them is harmonious, they have known each other since they were children and secretly they love each other (even they don’t admit it) but considering the rules of the society they live in, they could never be together and be free at the same time.
I admired Annalise for her determination and her loyalty toward her servant. Even if she was raised in a family that hates the modded, she is different and she treats them equally.
The story has suspense and action enough to make you read until the end. I honestly loved it because it reached me, the author succeeded to touch my mind and heart.
A book that will make you think more about the world we are living and the direction it goes. Enjoy. It’s worth it!
October 19, 2017
It is 2330 and the world has become divided between purebloods and those genetically modified. Years earlier was the Modded Wars, where purebloods and modded fought for fifteen years resulting in the Purebloods winning and the modded given the choice to serve or die.
Annalise is facing her first case with the Divinity PDF in the Human Possession Department. She was under the impression that she would be following around her mentor and finds herself jumping into the case with both feet. On the surface this case looks like a simple beast possession but Anna quickly learns that there is a lot more to this case and involves higher up politicians.
Anna has a lot riding on this case, her first and she is going to have to prove herself. But she quickly learns how dangerous this case is when her life is at risk and she is going to lose her beast and servant, Mavel. But she has her own secrets too. She secretly loves Mavel and is breaking laws regarding this. Annalise is going to have to dance on a fine line to solve the case and keep Mavel and herself alive and together.
I loved this story. I instantly fell into it with the killer introduction. It’s a fresh look at the future, it has a unique story line, and will leave you guessing that the ending the whole way through. I didn’t want to put this book down and found myself thinking about what could happen next. This is an amazing story and I can’t wait to read Case: 1.
I received Case: 0 from Silver Dagger Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
Annalise is facing her first case with the Divinity PDF in the Human Possession Department. She was under the impression that she would be following around her mentor and finds herself jumping into the case with both feet. On the surface this case looks like a simple beast possession but Anna quickly learns that there is a lot more to this case and involves higher up politicians.
Anna has a lot riding on this case, her first and she is going to have to prove herself. But she quickly learns how dangerous this case is when her life is at risk and she is going to lose her beast and servant, Mavel. But she has her own secrets too. She secretly loves Mavel and is breaking laws regarding this. Annalise is going to have to dance on a fine line to solve the case and keep Mavel and herself alive and together.
I loved this story. I instantly fell into it with the killer introduction. It’s a fresh look at the future, it has a unique story line, and will leave you guessing that the ending the whole way through. I didn’t want to put this book down and found myself thinking about what could happen next. This is an amazing story and I can’t wait to read Case: 1.
I received Case: 0 from Silver Dagger Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
April 27, 2017
Future of the Natural Beauty vs Altered..Add a Forbidden love
WOWZA!...Where has this author and genre been all my life? This book had me hooked and engrossed from page one. I am definitely going to have to read the series. Incredible start.
Annalise is a flawed and relatable human. She is a bit snobby and has her preconceived notions concerning her slave Mavel and a slaves place.
I also found the storyline very realistic I see it as the way the world is headed- natural beauty (untouched) vs the engineered..Altered.
You also have all kinds of twist and turns in this murder mystery. Oh she just started the new job and it's her first preliminary case to help investigate.
Incredible start!
I highly recommend this book.
I am so glad I am trying new authors and genres.
I voluntarily reviewed a courtesy copy.
I NEED MORE of author May Freighter books to read!
I found a new favorite author.
I even went so far as to recommend to my brother and his very selective wife..Both read a lot of sci fi.
Thanks May Freighter for allowing me the honoring of Trying one of your books :)
WOWZA!...Where has this author and genre been all my life? This book had me hooked and engrossed from page one. I am definitely going to have to read the series. Incredible start.
Annalise is a flawed and relatable human. She is a bit snobby and has her preconceived notions concerning her slave Mavel and a slaves place.
I also found the storyline very realistic I see it as the way the world is headed- natural beauty (untouched) vs the engineered..Altered.
You also have all kinds of twist and turns in this murder mystery. Oh she just started the new job and it's her first preliminary case to help investigate.
Incredible start!
I highly recommend this book.
I am so glad I am trying new authors and genres.
I voluntarily reviewed a courtesy copy.
I NEED MORE of author May Freighter books to read!
I found a new favorite author.
I even went so far as to recommend to my brother and his very selective wife..Both read a lot of sci fi.
Thanks May Freighter for allowing me the honoring of Trying one of your books :)
October 4, 2017
I picked this book up through Kindle Unlimited. I enjoyed the story and the odd-ball personalities the author created to populate the dystopian world. The story-line was original and kept my interest. I did not much care for the mild cliff-hanger ending but I do intend to read the next book in this series so hopefully some of the pending issues will be revisited, if not resolved.
This is a fast-paced exciting fantasy with an intelligent, snarky, non-conformist heroine who seems to be constantly testing her limits. She is a new member of a team with mysterious, sometimes scary individuals who seem to be diversely independent, as well. Somehow, this cantankerous crew find innovative ways of getting the job done protecting the city.
Annalise is strong-willed and not always very likable but she just may be a perfect fit for one of the most difficult policing jobs around. If you like quirky characters and unusual mysteries in the urban fantasy genre, this book will keep you entertained.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
This is a fast-paced exciting fantasy with an intelligent, snarky, non-conformist heroine who seems to be constantly testing her limits. She is a new member of a team with mysterious, sometimes scary individuals who seem to be diversely independent, as well. Somehow, this cantankerous crew find innovative ways of getting the job done protecting the city.
Annalise is strong-willed and not always very likable but she just may be a perfect fit for one of the most difficult policing jobs around. If you like quirky characters and unusual mysteries in the urban fantasy genre, this book will keep you entertained.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
October 15, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. The writing was beyond compelling, leaving me upset and distraught for the plight of the modded humans living in subjugation to the pure-bloods. Only being allowed to work or live in certain areas if a pure-blood held their contract.
The rigid social structure and what was or wasn't allowed was woven throughout the story so you never felt like you were getting a back story info dump. Seeing how different people reacted to Anna and Mavel and even the hint that there might be something "improper" between them.
The world was so well built and the government corruption, desperately controlling the social norm was very real. Devlin and the Falcon group remain a mystery. Will Anna's father hold onto his office? Will Anna make it as a police officer? Who will her new partner be? Where did Mavel go? Can they change the world? I've already bought book 2 so I can't wait to find out!
I did receive a free copy of this ebook and am voluntarily leaving a review!
The rigid social structure and what was or wasn't allowed was woven throughout the story so you never felt like you were getting a back story info dump. Seeing how different people reacted to Anna and Mavel and even the hint that there might be something "improper" between them.
The world was so well built and the government corruption, desperately controlling the social norm was very real. Devlin and the Falcon group remain a mystery. Will Anna's father hold onto his office? Will Anna make it as a police officer? Who will her new partner be? Where did Mavel go? Can they change the world? I've already bought book 2 so I can't wait to find out!
I did receive a free copy of this ebook and am voluntarily leaving a review!
May 10, 2019
How have I not been living and breathing this series before now? I adore a good police procedural story and this one does it beautifully. It has elements of post-apocalyptic dystopianism and political thriller in it too. It’s a little bit Castle, complete with the shadowy government agency pulling the strings from behind the curtain – just minus the bumbling writer/part time detective. A little bit X-Men in the “us versus them” mentalities between the populations with or without superpowers. And my impressions of the seething political unrest going on below the main story makes me think of House of Cards. I loved watching Annalise as she worked her very first case. Learning the ins and outs of this society they live in. And I can’t wait to read more about her career with the HPD.
May 29, 2017
Just loved it! A very original story with amazing characters with special features!
January 14, 2021
The author sure puts a lot of stumbling blocks in front of Annalise, making her job incredibly more difficult and stressful than it should be. What started out as a simple murder, is spiralling out of control and nothing seems to be adding up. She’s stubborn, feisty and out to prove herself. There’s lots of danger, action and forbidden romance to keep you entertained from start to finish.
September 23, 2020
Romance novel.
Author freebie. A well written romance novel set in the future. A beautiful princess is surrounded mystery and murder. Torn between two lovers. A society divided against itself, who will be her true love?
Author freebie. A well written romance novel set in the future. A beautiful princess is surrounded mystery and murder. Torn between two lovers. A society divided against itself, who will be her true love?
February 25, 2019
I am a big fan of this author's work so it was no surprise to me that I loved this book. This author is so talented and I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
I love the characters in this book .. they are all so unique and so different from each other it was amazing to start to know each individual character. I loved reading about Annalise, I love her fire and her spirit and how she doesn't let anyone bring her down especially her family, she has the confidence to be exactly who she is and not who she is expected to be.
The thing I love about reading books by May Freighter is how you get drawn into the world that you are reading about and she makes you feel like you are part of that world. I love how you never know what is going to happen next in the storyline and this keeps you hooked even more in the story.
I can't rate this book highly enough. I adored this book!!
I love the characters in this book .. they are all so unique and so different from each other it was amazing to start to know each individual character. I loved reading about Annalise, I love her fire and her spirit and how she doesn't let anyone bring her down especially her family, she has the confidence to be exactly who she is and not who she is expected to be.
The thing I love about reading books by May Freighter is how you get drawn into the world that you are reading about and she makes you feel like you are part of that world. I love how you never know what is going to happen next in the storyline and this keeps you hooked even more in the story.
I can't rate this book highly enough. I adored this book!!
November 22, 2016
May Freighter has made the future of not only police work, but people in general a wild and weird ride !! Their is still huge divisiveness between certain groups, now its not just color or religion; its whether your " modded" or not !! Anna is not , she's an original and a cop, Mavel her partner ( for want of a bettter word, as others see him as less), is not. The gruesome murders they must solve are worse than any seen in decades and everyone wants them solved, just nit by them !! The obstacles thrown in their way, as well as their growing love for each other creates even more difficulties than they anticipated, so its a race against the clock, the murderer and the " Status Quo" , to put these cases in the "Solved" pile and try to make a life for themselves, with each other before Case 0 comes crashing down on their heads !! 4⭐️'s I recieved a gifted copy and am voluntarily choosing to write an honest and unbiased review.
January 18, 2017
A thight plot that kept me eager to know what was going on in Divinity. To the top of the Towers to the dark streets of the Red district we follow Anna and her magnetic partner Mavel in a race for truth and justice. But also for revelations and passion. Between rules of a society divided between normal humans and the descendant of genetically enhanced people we discover characters with strong personalities, ideals and secrets. Raised in the eyes of the storm Annalise discover that the insight of the manipulations, lies, scheme and political dangers are just a drop of reality. And she could loose her friends and family or even her life if she does not tread with caution.
January 24, 2021
This book is attempting to do many things at once. It is trying to be a detective story, a science fiction story, a dystopian society story, a “first-job” story, and an adult relationship story. In all honesty, I think the author put too many eggs in this basket. Yes, the result is a solid story, but one that I believe didn’t quite achieve its potential in any of these categories.
Disclaimer: I received a free digital ARC for this novel. However, both the decision to post a review and the contents of the review are voluntary and my own alone.
There are some things liked about this story. For example:
Annalisa is well characterized (perhaps even better than the author intended). Annalisa, the lead character, is the pureblood daughter of a very senior member of the society. The author has done an excellent job of characterizing the sense of “entitlement” and “self-centeredness” that such an individual would have (even though she is somewhat in rebellion against her background and particularly her father – the rebellion is within the context of her entitled role in society rather than outside of it). This is apparent in many places in the story, but is most strongly emphasized in the relationship with Mavel (her beast servant). Throughout the book Annalisa treats Mavel as if she is entitled to have a crush on him (and eventually an intimate relationship with him) without much apparent thought as to his feelings or opinions. In essence, she unconsciously treats Mavel as more of a possession than a person. In reading the book, one is immediately reminded of some of the tensions between masters and slaves in the Antebellum South of the United States, particularly with regard to intimate relations. While there is a gender-flip here (in that the best analogies to the Antebellum South are with regards to White male masters in intimate relations with Black female slaves) the depiction of the relationship between Annalisa and Marvel incorporates many of the same “one-sided” elements. In a lot of ways, this realistic depiction of Annalisa is perhaps the best feature of the story.
Interesting dystopian society: The author has introduced a simplified dystopian society (with some science fiction elements) by creating two basic class of humans, the “purebloods” and the “modded”. The “modded” are genetically modified and further divided into beasts (strong), alabasters (beautiful), flares (possessed of unusual mental powers) and basilisks (poisonous). Further, the author has divided the city into Gold, Silver and Bronze districts (largely inhabited by purebloods) and Green, Red and Black districts (largely inhabited by the modded). As the power in society is controlled by the purebloods, the ordering of the districts follows logically from the names, with Golden being the most elite, and Black and Red being the least elite. Somewhat like the Hunger Games, this simplified society provides a (relatively) intuitive background to the story that does not require extensive world-building to be understood by the reader.
Things that I struggled with:
Likability (or perhaps relatability) of the main characters. I found Annalisa to be very difficult to either like or relate to. Now, there is no requirement that the lead character be likable! (A whole lot of excellent books would go by the wayside if this were true!) However, my sense is the book is weakened because of this. Mavel is probably the closest to a likable character, but his character is not developed with the strength it could be given the background of the story. Too often in the story Mavel comes across as the “cardboard cutout” that Annalisa clearly perceives him to be. In some ways, Annalisa’s character sets up a tremendous opportunity for Mavel’s character (and the tensions around the Mistress to Beast interaction) to be the focal point of the story, and the author does not take advantage of that.
Possession confusion. The book opens with what appears to be a description of a pureblood being possessed. Later in the book Marvel is accused of being possessed. Annalisa’s job is with the Human Possession Department. However, nowhere in the book are any of these pieces actually connected. There is no conversation where possession is discussed or debated (so the reader can understand it better), and there is no inkling of whether beasts or purebloods are immune (or targeted for that matter). The last few paragraphs of the book provide the best clues, “I thought it was an easy matter of beast possession. You know, obvious suspect, obvious crime.” However, it sure would have helped to have had more information on this earlier! (By the way, even after reading the book, and writing this, I still haven’t figured out why the introduction appears to be a possessed pureblood rather than a possessed beast. This may be obvious to everybody else, but it sure wasn't obvious to me!)
Disclaimer: I received a free digital ARC for this novel. However, both the decision to post a review and the contents of the review are voluntary and my own alone.
There are some things liked about this story. For example:
Annalisa is well characterized (perhaps even better than the author intended). Annalisa, the lead character, is the pureblood daughter of a very senior member of the society. The author has done an excellent job of characterizing the sense of “entitlement” and “self-centeredness” that such an individual would have (even though she is somewhat in rebellion against her background and particularly her father – the rebellion is within the context of her entitled role in society rather than outside of it). This is apparent in many places in the story, but is most strongly emphasized in the relationship with Mavel (her beast servant). Throughout the book Annalisa treats Mavel as if she is entitled to have a crush on him (and eventually an intimate relationship with him) without much apparent thought as to his feelings or opinions. In essence, she unconsciously treats Mavel as more of a possession than a person. In reading the book, one is immediately reminded of some of the tensions between masters and slaves in the Antebellum South of the United States, particularly with regard to intimate relations. While there is a gender-flip here (in that the best analogies to the Antebellum South are with regards to White male masters in intimate relations with Black female slaves) the depiction of the relationship between Annalisa and Marvel incorporates many of the same “one-sided” elements. In a lot of ways, this realistic depiction of Annalisa is perhaps the best feature of the story.
Interesting dystopian society: The author has introduced a simplified dystopian society (with some science fiction elements) by creating two basic class of humans, the “purebloods” and the “modded”. The “modded” are genetically modified and further divided into beasts (strong), alabasters (beautiful), flares (possessed of unusual mental powers) and basilisks (poisonous). Further, the author has divided the city into Gold, Silver and Bronze districts (largely inhabited by purebloods) and Green, Red and Black districts (largely inhabited by the modded). As the power in society is controlled by the purebloods, the ordering of the districts follows logically from the names, with Golden being the most elite, and Black and Red being the least elite. Somewhat like the Hunger Games, this simplified society provides a (relatively) intuitive background to the story that does not require extensive world-building to be understood by the reader.
Things that I struggled with:
Likability (or perhaps relatability) of the main characters. I found Annalisa to be very difficult to either like or relate to. Now, there is no requirement that the lead character be likable! (A whole lot of excellent books would go by the wayside if this were true!) However, my sense is the book is weakened because of this. Mavel is probably the closest to a likable character, but his character is not developed with the strength it could be given the background of the story. Too often in the story Mavel comes across as the “cardboard cutout” that Annalisa clearly perceives him to be. In some ways, Annalisa’s character sets up a tremendous opportunity for Mavel’s character (and the tensions around the Mistress to Beast interaction) to be the focal point of the story, and the author does not take advantage of that.
Possession confusion. The book opens with what appears to be a description of a pureblood being possessed. Later in the book Marvel is accused of being possessed. Annalisa’s job is with the Human Possession Department. However, nowhere in the book are any of these pieces actually connected. There is no conversation where possession is discussed or debated (so the reader can understand it better), and there is no inkling of whether beasts or purebloods are immune (or targeted for that matter). The last few paragraphs of the book provide the best clues, “I thought it was an easy matter of beast possession. You know, obvious suspect, obvious crime.” However, it sure would have helped to have had more information on this earlier! (By the way, even after reading the book, and writing this, I still haven’t figured out why the introduction appears to be a possessed pureblood rather than a possessed beast. This may be obvious to everybody else, but it sure wasn't obvious to me!)
February 13, 2018
It took a bit to understand how this society worked with the purebloods and the modded. There was also a bit of confusion within the different districts and how much appearances played a large role in this story.
Annalise’s family comes from money but she wants to make her way in the world on her own merit and has joined the Divinity PD/The Human Possession Department. She has partnered with her childhood friend/beast Mavel. Mavel has always been protective of Annalise and has always treated her as a close unromantic friend. Annalise has found herself thinking of Mavel more and more as a possible love interest even though being with him would put her reputation as well as her family’s standing in the community in jeopardy.
The first case that they work on put’s Annalise face to face with the person that her parents has chosen for her to marry Devlin. While being with Mavel makes Annalise super sexually aware continued exposure to Devlin and her body’s reaction is making things a bit confusing for Annalise.
As Annalise and Mavel try to fit in with the current team at HPD they are finding that there is a lot more politics and behind the scene mechanisms at work. Annalise has always treated Mavel as her equal and she is being exposed more and more to the prejudices that many have with the modded.
As this was the first story in what looks like it’s going to be an ongoing series there was a lot of establishing with a lot of info thrown at you some of it was a little confusing. There is obviously some big reveal that’s going to happen with Devlin as the story seemed to always hint at it. The relationship I use that word loosely to describe what Mavel and Annalise have was lacking so much info it felt like you had to fill in the blanks to explain why Annalise felt that way about him. There is loads of interactions with Devlin and with Mavel being mostly absent you are now pairing Annalise and Devlin and not so much Mavel. Plus how the author let the story end on that relationship was a bit of a let down.
The storyline itself went along a bit of a meandering path and left loads of tendrils unanswered. The actual case seemed at times to take a back seat to the manipulations being done to Annalise by her family. It was an ok read, not bad just at times a little confusing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Annalise’s family comes from money but she wants to make her way in the world on her own merit and has joined the Divinity PD/The Human Possession Department. She has partnered with her childhood friend/beast Mavel. Mavel has always been protective of Annalise and has always treated her as a close unromantic friend. Annalise has found herself thinking of Mavel more and more as a possible love interest even though being with him would put her reputation as well as her family’s standing in the community in jeopardy.
The first case that they work on put’s Annalise face to face with the person that her parents has chosen for her to marry Devlin. While being with Mavel makes Annalise super sexually aware continued exposure to Devlin and her body’s reaction is making things a bit confusing for Annalise.
As Annalise and Mavel try to fit in with the current team at HPD they are finding that there is a lot more politics and behind the scene mechanisms at work. Annalise has always treated Mavel as her equal and she is being exposed more and more to the prejudices that many have with the modded.
As this was the first story in what looks like it’s going to be an ongoing series there was a lot of establishing with a lot of info thrown at you some of it was a little confusing. There is obviously some big reveal that’s going to happen with Devlin as the story seemed to always hint at it. The relationship I use that word loosely to describe what Mavel and Annalise have was lacking so much info it felt like you had to fill in the blanks to explain why Annalise felt that way about him. There is loads of interactions with Devlin and with Mavel being mostly absent you are now pairing Annalise and Devlin and not so much Mavel. Plus how the author let the story end on that relationship was a bit of a let down.
The storyline itself went along a bit of a meandering path and left loads of tendrils unanswered. The actual case seemed at times to take a back seat to the manipulations being done to Annalise by her family. It was an ok read, not bad just at times a little confusing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2021
Annalise Storm is a spunky, cocky, defiant character. She takes things on head on, wants to make a difference in her world, and gets trampled on every time she turns around. In a world that I don't exactly understand, she is trying to do her job, but realizing that things are not as she may have believed.
Mavel is loyal, loving and entirely an enigma to both the reader and Annalise it seems. I want to see his character develop and learn what is behind his outer shell.
I don't know if it is the formatting or what, but there are many issues with extra letters being added to words, making it hard to focus on the story without getting angry having to decipher the words and sentences.
These are my honest thoughts, and have not been affected by the fact that the author was kind enough to send me a free copy of this book so that I would review it on her behalf.
Mavel is loyal, loving and entirely an enigma to both the reader and Annalise it seems. I want to see his character develop and learn what is behind his outer shell.
I don't know if it is the formatting or what, but there are many issues with extra letters being added to words, making it hard to focus on the story without getting angry having to decipher the words and sentences.
These are my honest thoughts, and have not been affected by the fact that the author was kind enough to send me a free copy of this book so that I would review it on her behalf.
July 27, 2019
Case: 0 by May Freighter is the first book in the Annalise Storm Chronicles. This book is set in a futuristic world where people are segregated by different types. The main character is a pureblood named Annalise Storm who is just beginning her career as a police detective. This book is unique and unusual with an entire world built on the separation of people who are different. I enjoyed this story but how the segregation of people was organized in this book somewhat confused me with lots of different terms that were never quite defined. However, the plot was good with lots of build up of mystery and suspense which is what I did enjoy. Case: 0 is an interesting tale focused on total corruption in an egalitarian world.
March 11, 2018
I enjoyed this first book in the Annalise series by May Freighter which highlighted the struggles between the rich and powerful in control against all the other races and human hybrids beneath them. This book is of course first and foremost a murder mystery detective story, but with many many twists, both in the makeup of its characters, as well as the mystery itself. The ending of this book leads very smoothly into the next book in the series, which I intend to read as soon as I post this review. This is a rather late voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Booksprout.
August 3, 2019
Exciting Origin Story
This book, aptly named as Case 0, is a great introduction to Annalise, Mavel, and their real and work families.
There is lots of action, an intriguing murder mystery, family squabbles, and romance. Annalise is a newly minted detective working hard to prove herself on her first case. The story is set in a genetically segregated world where the pure bloods enslave those who have been genetically modified.
The characters are well developed and the introduction to a different world is well done. I enjoyed reading this and look forward to reading the future cases.
This book, aptly named as Case 0, is a great introduction to Annalise, Mavel, and their real and work families.
There is lots of action, an intriguing murder mystery, family squabbles, and romance. Annalise is a newly minted detective working hard to prove herself on her first case. The story is set in a genetically segregated world where the pure bloods enslave those who have been genetically modified.
The characters are well developed and the introduction to a different world is well done. I enjoyed reading this and look forward to reading the future cases.
February 16, 2018
I’m a big fan of May Freighter’s and this is another one of her amazing books. Slaves are perfect but humans are flawed Annalise is beautiful and human, she goes to a bar one night and is abused by the patrons, they think that she is a slave and they attack but she puts up one hell of a fight. Annalise works for the Human Possesion Department ( HDP ) where her chief gives Annalise her first case. There’s action, adventure, twists and turns and danger. Fantastic read and I highly recommend this book.
June 17, 2018
A police story set in the future that is gutsy and real
Brilliant start to a new series. A world split by different classes and where crime is always blamed on one of the lower classes. She is gutsy and determined although at times slightly naive. He is her servant and is a tightly controlled character their task is to solve the recent outbreak of murders. Who is behind the crimes? What is the real purpose of the shadowy Falcon group? A police mystery with a real difference. Worth reading.
I got this in a giveaway and this is my honest review.
Brilliant start to a new series. A world split by different classes and where crime is always blamed on one of the lower classes. She is gutsy and determined although at times slightly naive. He is her servant and is a tightly controlled character their task is to solve the recent outbreak of murders. Who is behind the crimes? What is the real purpose of the shadowy Falcon group? A police mystery with a real difference. Worth reading.
I got this in a giveaway and this is my honest review.
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