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Quentin Black Mystery #2
Black As Night
ACE for ASIN: B016YPLLA2
"He says he will break anything you try to keep pure, brother..."
Forensic psychologist Miri Fox travels across the globe when her now-employer, psychic detective, Quentin Black, calls from a police station in Bangkok and asks for her help.
She arrives to find Black undercover inside a gang of local criminals, determined to discover which of them is killing street children and ritualistically burning their bodies inside Buddhist shrines. But Black isn't the only one with an interest in the crimes, and soon his investigations get the attention of the local sex traffickers, along with a crime syndicate out of Russia that doesn't appreciate his meddling one bit.
When Miri shows up to help, she manages to catch the attention of all the wrong people. Events quickly spiral out of control...until Miri soon finds herself the hunted.
The second book in the paranormal mystery romance series starring brilliant but dangerous psychic detective, Quentin Black, and his partner in crime, forensic psychologist, Miri Fox.
Praise for JC Andrijeski's Writing
"Andrijeski delivers a whopper of an action flick..." ~ New Myths
"The sexual tension is scorching..." ~ The Muses Circle
"Amazing characters in an out-of-this-world scenario..." ~ The Indie Bookshelf
"The most impressive display of world-building I have seen in a while." ~ I (Heart) Reading
"He says he will break anything you try to keep pure, brother..."
Forensic psychologist Miri Fox travels across the globe when her now-employer, psychic detective, Quentin Black, calls from a police station in Bangkok and asks for her help.
She arrives to find Black undercover inside a gang of local criminals, determined to discover which of them is killing street children and ritualistically burning their bodies inside Buddhist shrines. But Black isn't the only one with an interest in the crimes, and soon his investigations get the attention of the local sex traffickers, along with a crime syndicate out of Russia that doesn't appreciate his meddling one bit.
When Miri shows up to help, she manages to catch the attention of all the wrong people. Events quickly spiral out of control...until Miri soon finds herself the hunted.
The second book in the paranormal mystery romance series starring brilliant but dangerous psychic detective, Quentin Black, and his partner in crime, forensic psychologist, Miri Fox.
Praise for JC Andrijeski's Writing
"Andrijeski delivers a whopper of an action flick..." ~ New Myths
"The sexual tension is scorching..." ~ The Muses Circle
"Amazing characters in an out-of-this-world scenario..." ~ The Indie Bookshelf
"The most impressive display of world-building I have seen in a while." ~ I (Heart) Reading
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2016
323 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Andrijeski
212 books714 followersAlso publishes under the name Julie Light
JC Andrijeski is a USA TODAY bestselling author who writes sexy, apocalyptic and cyberpunk-y science fiction romance and mystery books, often with a metaphysical bent. Current works include the gritty, epic, psychic warfare romance, ALLIE'S WAR, which follows Allie Taylor and her antihero partner, Revik, in their attempts to save the world from a dark, psychic force. Her dystopian science fiction romance series, ALIEN APOCALYPSE, features Jet Tetsuo, survivor and slave under alien conquerors, and her GATE SHIFTER series is about a shape-shifting alien and a tough-girl PI from Seattle. Her newest launch is QUENTIN BLACK, a science fiction romance and mystery series that’s a spin-off from Allie’s War but set in our own version of Earth.
JC has a background in journalism, history and politics, travels extensively and has lived abroad in Europe, Australia and Asia, and from coast to coast in the continental United States. She currently lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
To learn more about me and my writing, please visit http://jcandrijeski.com. For more about the Allie's War series, visit http://allieswarseries.com
If you want to get an automatic email when JC's next book is released, join THE REBEL ARMY at tinyurl.com/JCAndrijeski.
JC Andrijeski is a USA TODAY bestselling author who writes sexy, apocalyptic and cyberpunk-y science fiction romance and mystery books, often with a metaphysical bent. Current works include the gritty, epic, psychic warfare romance, ALLIE'S WAR, which follows Allie Taylor and her antihero partner, Revik, in their attempts to save the world from a dark, psychic force. Her dystopian science fiction romance series, ALIEN APOCALYPSE, features Jet Tetsuo, survivor and slave under alien conquerors, and her GATE SHIFTER series is about a shape-shifting alien and a tough-girl PI from Seattle. Her newest launch is QUENTIN BLACK, a science fiction romance and mystery series that’s a spin-off from Allie’s War but set in our own version of Earth.
JC has a background in journalism, history and politics, travels extensively and has lived abroad in Europe, Australia and Asia, and from coast to coast in the continental United States. She currently lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
To learn more about me and my writing, please visit http://jcandrijeski.com. For more about the Allie's War series, visit http://allieswarseries.com
If you want to get an automatic email when JC's next book is released, join THE REBEL ARMY at tinyurl.com/JCAndrijeski.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
March 27, 2025
The Second Book!
Black and Miriam are both good seers. That means that they can control someone else’s mind and their emotions without being around them. They can control what others perceive and feel and do.
This makes them more powerful and important than the rest of society who don’t have this ability. They are the ones who are trying to destroy Solonik, an evil seer. The one who kidnapped Miriam and raped her. He tried to turn her against Black.
But Miri escaped Solonik and she and Black are both using their seer powers to take him down. They want to destroy him. And it is what he deserves.
Will Black kill the man? Will he take the seer’s skills away? Just wait until the moment. Wait until the end.
Three stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Black and Miriam are both good seers. That means that they can control someone else’s mind and their emotions without being around them. They can control what others perceive and feel and do.
This makes them more powerful and important than the rest of society who don’t have this ability. They are the ones who are trying to destroy Solonik, an evil seer. The one who kidnapped Miriam and raped her. He tried to turn her against Black.
But Miri escaped Solonik and she and Black are both using their seer powers to take him down. They want to destroy him. And it is what he deserves.
Will Black kill the man? Will he take the seer’s skills away? Just wait until the moment. Wait until the end.
Three stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 10, 2015
Contains graphic rape scenes which I REALLY wish I'd been warned about.
Honestly, I was so thrown by that, even though I fully understood why it was included to progress the plot, I never fully recovered my enjoyment of the book.
I DID go ahead and buy the next one with hopes that I could bring back my enjoyment, since I so loved the first, but that's another review for another time.
3/5 and watch out if rape is a trigger for you.
Honestly, I was so thrown by that, even though I fully understood why it was included to progress the plot, I never fully recovered my enjoyment of the book.
I DID go ahead and buy the next one with hopes that I could bring back my enjoyment, since I so loved the first, but that's another review for another time.
3/5 and watch out if rape is a trigger for you.
December 1, 2019
warning: rape
spoiler review:
spoiler review:
July 14, 2018
Not recommended
I wouldnt recommend this book to anyone as I found parts of it revolting. First of all Mirium was repeatidly raped for days on end. When she broke free, she wanted to have sex with Black. It was never considdered that she may be pregnant, have STD.s or AIDS
I wouldnt recommend this book to anyone as I found parts of it revolting. First of all Mirium was repeatidly raped for days on end. When she broke free, she wanted to have sex with Black. It was never considdered that she may be pregnant, have STD.s or AIDS
Want to read
October 26, 2023🎁 Quentin Black Mystery Collection (Books #1-4) is FREE on Amazon today (5/19/2020)! 🎁
May 13, 2019
Rape scene unnecessary
I loved the first book even if though I had to suspend belief over parts. I even followed author after. Not buying anymore after rape scene
I loved the first book even if though I had to suspend belief over parts. I even followed author after. Not buying anymore after rape scene
April 17, 2018
C'est noir et glauque (même traumatisant par certains côté), à ne pas mettre entre toutes les mains mais je suis assez accroc. Toutefois, je le dis et répète, cela ne plaira pas à tout le monde, certaines scènes sont difficilement supportables.
September 9, 2016
Trigger warning: Long, graphic rape scene and you're along for the ride the whole way.
October 28, 2015
Black As Night, (Quentin Black Mystery 2), by J.C. Andrijeski
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, Fantasy and Sci-fi, Paranormal
I loved the first in this series, and this one lives up to that great start. Its got the same terrific world building and characters as the Allie’s War series, but is lighter in feel. I love that I feel I “know” this kind of world and the character types because of all the info in AW, but if you’re new to it JCA gives enough info for the reader to keep up, understand the human/seer dynamics and characteristics without boring those who already understand it. A tough thing to do but JCA pulls it off and delivers a fabulous story once again.
Like before the main dynamic is Miri and Black. She’s angry he’s left her along for over a month, no contact, nothing after all his promises and indications he wanted more from her, and then out of the blue one of his weird calls. He needs her Now in Bangkok, and is sending a car for her in 10 mins, and his assistant ( well one of them) has already packed her case, cancelled her clients etc. Typical Black style, when he wants something done he makes it happen.
Miri is furious, tired, jet-lagged when they meet and yet that charisma, that pull to him, gets her straightaway, and soon as they’re alone he’s kissing her furiously in that intense Seer way that pulls at her insides. There’s a killer to find though, traps to lay, a child to be rescued and Miri soon gets embroiled in the drama more than either of them expected. She’s in some real danger here. Warning: This part gets graphic, and is very violent. It didn’t bother me, I saw it as essential to the storyline but for those that have issues take care. JCA pulls the reader right into her stories and here I could feel Miri’s attack, feel her hurt and despair. She’s tough though and won’t give up. Black of course is distraught, furiously pulling strings everywhere trying to find her. He’s a very wealthy man but there are things money can’t buy.
Its an exciting, gripping story, a solid tale backing up another incredibly sensuous story. Its not one of those sex every other page reads so many stories deliver, but one where a kiss can be more sensual and erotic that out and out in your face sex of so many reads. Its the emotions that come with the actions that do it for me in these books. Its as if they are erotic by accident almost, that their action within the storyline add that edge of sensuality. Some stories try so hard it seems forced but here its just Is, it feels natural and right for the characters. I love the culture differences between Miri and Black. She’s part Seer but until very recently thought she was – just as she thought everyone was – human. She still thinks in the way she’s always been brought up, whereas Black thinks like a Seer, after all he’s been one for many many years! Sex to them is something essential, necessary and almost an everyday thing. He doesn’t understand Miri’s reaction when after no contact for so many weeks she’s upset when his first actions are to kind of jump her, and tell her how much, how desperate he is to f uck her.....he says it like its a kind of compliment and she’s just stunned, shocked. She wants the explanations first and he’s trying to persuade her he can tell it better through sex....poor Miri, and poor Black too! You can see so many times how they float on the edge of emotional disaster simply because they don’t understand the others actions and reactions. Like USA v GB, countries divided by a common language for them its Seers v Humans, divided by culture where the same thing means different things to each. Like Miri I’d be jealous, be wondering, given the way women seem to give Black the come on constantly, and that she’s finally coming to understand just how open they are about sex.
It all comes to a head in an exciting finish where its impossible to work out what’s going to happen because it changes constantly, minute by minute it seems with Black making plans on the fly and adapting them just as quickly. Its tough fighting an enemy who can get in your head, read your thoughts and plans....A great read, one for the keepers and I’m looking forward to book three.
Stars: Five, an exciting mystery with the spice only a Seer can bring!
ARC supplied by Author
If you enjoyed my review I'd love it if you would please click “Like” and if you didn't I'd love to know why, so I can make future reviews more helpful.
September 8, 2016
I was enjoying this aside from a couple of minor niggles like why the fuck Black doesn’t give Miri any concrete information about their race or anything else and why Miri lets him get away with not telling her anything pertinent and then something happens which basically kills the books for me
July 2, 2016
ok so I started reading this and then a couple pages in I decided to read the reviews, for what reason I have no idea! after reading said reviews I didn't know if I wanted to read it but I liked the first book so I decided to read it after a couple days. I really liked this book. it is not a pretty story it is gritty and in your face! she was in fact in some scary situations but she never let it break her! there is no steamy sex if that's what your here for sorry. instead there is a intense connection. I liked this book and will be reading the next without reading reviews first lol.
May 22, 2016
This is well done, my main problem is that I don't particularly like our leading lady. Selfish to the nth degree. There are also a number of instances where I have to think 'really?'. Nonetheless I shall be launching into the next novel soon - Quentin Black has my full attention.
September 28, 2018
I do not like rape
Having two daughters I not only do not like rape scenes but scenes that carry on for a week plus the heroine having to escape on her own are not for me. Quinton Black is not for me. I know there are other stories of him but not for me.
Having two daughters I not only do not like rape scenes but scenes that carry on for a week plus the heroine having to escape on her own are not for me. Quinton Black is not for me. I know there are other stories of him but not for me.
February 26, 2018
This one was brutal as Black is tortured in both mind and body.
August 10, 2016
I was given a free copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
Black as Night carries on Miriam and Quentins odd relationship, which is frustrating and funny to go along with. They haven't seen each other in along time, since Ian tried to kill Miriam. So she is a little miffed with Black as she was expecting answers from him. Then he summons her to Bangkok to help with a case to do with child killers and trafficking. And everything goes wrong.
The thing I have noticed about JC Andrijeski books, is that some of the story lines are things that happen for real. People out in the world have gone through some of the story lines in this book and it's gut wrenching. But she pulls you in and gets you caring about the people, and I think because some of the story happens in real life, you kind of care more for them. Human trafficking? My God what people go through and when it's kids involved? This gets to you. it seems it gets to Black too. But you also get a glimpse of his past and why he cares so much in this. Then Miriam? God!!! What she was put through is so heartbreaking. You feel like you are with her, feeling everything she feels. Still no matter what she is still a fighter and still will help even though it scares her. How Black is with her, especially after what happens to her is well beautiful in away a weird Quentin Black way :) one of his reassuring talks to Mirriam..
(And trust me that I'm being as asshole for a reason). Some of this book is quite emotional but it what makes it so good.
Black as Night carries on Miriam and Quentins odd relationship, which is frustrating and funny to go along with. They haven't seen each other in along time, since Ian tried to kill Miriam. So she is a little miffed with Black as she was expecting answers from him. Then he summons her to Bangkok to help with a case to do with child killers and trafficking. And everything goes wrong.
The thing I have noticed about JC Andrijeski books, is that some of the story lines are things that happen for real. People out in the world have gone through some of the story lines in this book and it's gut wrenching. But she pulls you in and gets you caring about the people, and I think because some of the story happens in real life, you kind of care more for them. Human trafficking? My God what people go through and when it's kids involved? This gets to you. it seems it gets to Black too. But you also get a glimpse of his past and why he cares so much in this. Then Miriam? God!!! What she was put through is so heartbreaking. You feel like you are with her, feeling everything she feels. Still no matter what she is still a fighter and still will help even though it scares her. How Black is with her, especially after what happens to her is well beautiful in away a weird Quentin Black way :) one of his reassuring talks to Mirriam..
(And trust me that I'm being as asshole for a reason). Some of this book is quite emotional but it what makes it so good.
May 11, 2017
This review encompasses the entire 4 book Quentin Black Mystery series. I've read works by this author in the past and enjoyed them. I also really enjoyed this series.
I did get a little frustrated with the lack of answers at times, the fact that Miri doesn't truly pursue them, and on the rare occasions she does ask she doesn't seem to get them. I really would have liked for Miri to have shown much more interested in her own genetics and non-human half. Perhaps the author explores that further in the other Quentin Black series - sadly since I know it's vampire related I won't be pursuing reading that series in spite of my enjoyment of this one. Vampires just don't really interest me much.
I also got a little frustrated the with constant pain and pushing/pulling of light. Miri was a bit of an annoying character, as much as I wanted to like her. For a psychologist she really didn't seem to understand people's motivations and personalities other than those of the criminals she profiled.
Overall however, I did really enjoy the character of Black himself, and the mysteries and crimes these two needed to solve. I also enjoyed the secondary characters of Nick and Angel. I read the four books in this series in quick succession because I was very into it.
I did get a little frustrated with the lack of answers at times, the fact that Miri doesn't truly pursue them, and on the rare occasions she does ask she doesn't seem to get them. I really would have liked for Miri to have shown much more interested in her own genetics and non-human half. Perhaps the author explores that further in the other Quentin Black series - sadly since I know it's vampire related I won't be pursuing reading that series in spite of my enjoyment of this one. Vampires just don't really interest me much.
I also got a little frustrated the with constant pain and pushing/pulling of light. Miri was a bit of an annoying character, as much as I wanted to like her. For a psychologist she really didn't seem to understand people's motivations and personalities other than those of the criminals she profiled.
Overall however, I did really enjoy the character of Black himself, and the mysteries and crimes these two needed to solve. I also enjoyed the secondary characters of Nick and Angel. I read the four books in this series in quick succession because I was very into it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2019
This is an emotionally difficult book to read. It should probably come with a trigger warning as well. I understand that it’s “science fiction” violence, but rape and torture are still rape and torture. The events are essential to the plot but they’re so well-written I found it impossible not to be impacted by them. The pace of the story is quick, and the plot has so many unexpected twists, turns, and double-crosses. I'm hooked on Black and Miri and can't wait to read everything about them.
June 26, 2018
BAS
I am really not a fan of Cliff hangers and this series is definitely one in my opinion. The author gives you just enough that tries to make you want to read the next one. I haven’t decided if I will or not. Definitely taking a break before the next one.
I am really not a fan of Cliff hangers and this series is definitely one in my opinion. The author gives you just enough that tries to make you want to read the next one. I haven’t decided if I will or not. Definitely taking a break before the next one.
September 17, 2023
5 Stars
Black As Night is the second book in the Quentin Black Mystery Series by J.C. Andrijeski. WHY? WHY? WHY? Have I not discovered this author before now? I have seriously been missing out on some stellar reads, and that is something I plan to remedy starting immediately. This turned out to be quite the epic book binge- and I enjoyed every single second- even if the author constantly had my heart in my mouth, or had me pulling my hair out in frustration, or seemed to delight in toying with my emotions pretty much the entire time- I willingly went back for more each and every time. Sixteen books in and I can’t wait for more!!!
Seriously, this series truly is a MUST-READ, especially for anyone who loves really original paranormal mysteries with incredible world-building and scene setting. If you love immersive reads, then this is definitely the series for you!
But be warned, this isn’t a ‘light and fluffy’ cozy paranormal mystery- this has plenty of gritty, raw, violent, emotive, and a ‘hang on to your seat’ and brace yourselves because this is going to get INTENSE situations. There are potential triggers contained through the series- such as violence, murder, abuse, sexual abuse, manipulation, graphic language and more. So keep that in mind if you are sensitive to any of those subjects.
I stumbled on this series purely by accident, and this is another fortuitous find of late, because not only was I hooked on the story within the first few pages and practically inhaled the entire series back-to-back…. it is also turned out to be entirely addictive reading, with Ms. Andrijeski’s stellar storytelling talents, her clever and intriguing touches, the many well-developed and interesting characters, the brilliant ‘world’ creation, and all the other rich layers and ‘flavours’ she poured into her pages, made the real world fade away as I was swept along on adventure after adventure.
J.C. Andrijeski’s world building skills are sheer perfection, putting me front and centre to all the action-packed developments in this immersive, captivating, and addictive book/series. I am so hooked on her work now and will happily devour anything she ever produces- so I see plenty of book binges in my future.
This is a heart-stopping, action-packed, intense, mystery with a serial killer, tension, intrigue, seers, vampires, chemistry, sizzle, science fiction, crime and investigation, deadly games of cat and mouse, murder, violence drama, danger, friendship, and so much more that I won’t get into here because I really don’t want to spoil it for you.
Ms. Andrijeski has a bold, dynamic, and very vivid writing style that easily brings her story to life- it was like watching a movie play out before my eyes, The descriptions are quite detailed and painted a powerful picture- I really could see this making a fantastic movie or television series.
Highly Recommended Reading!!!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, J.C. Andrijeski!
Black As Night is the second book in the Quentin Black Mystery Series by J.C. Andrijeski. WHY? WHY? WHY? Have I not discovered this author before now? I have seriously been missing out on some stellar reads, and that is something I plan to remedy starting immediately. This turned out to be quite the epic book binge- and I enjoyed every single second- even if the author constantly had my heart in my mouth, or had me pulling my hair out in frustration, or seemed to delight in toying with my emotions pretty much the entire time- I willingly went back for more each and every time. Sixteen books in and I can’t wait for more!!!
Seriously, this series truly is a MUST-READ, especially for anyone who loves really original paranormal mysteries with incredible world-building and scene setting. If you love immersive reads, then this is definitely the series for you!
But be warned, this isn’t a ‘light and fluffy’ cozy paranormal mystery- this has plenty of gritty, raw, violent, emotive, and a ‘hang on to your seat’ and brace yourselves because this is going to get INTENSE situations. There are potential triggers contained through the series- such as violence, murder, abuse, sexual abuse, manipulation, graphic language and more. So keep that in mind if you are sensitive to any of those subjects.
I stumbled on this series purely by accident, and this is another fortuitous find of late, because not only was I hooked on the story within the first few pages and practically inhaled the entire series back-to-back…. it is also turned out to be entirely addictive reading, with Ms. Andrijeski’s stellar storytelling talents, her clever and intriguing touches, the many well-developed and interesting characters, the brilliant ‘world’ creation, and all the other rich layers and ‘flavours’ she poured into her pages, made the real world fade away as I was swept along on adventure after adventure.
J.C. Andrijeski’s world building skills are sheer perfection, putting me front and centre to all the action-packed developments in this immersive, captivating, and addictive book/series. I am so hooked on her work now and will happily devour anything she ever produces- so I see plenty of book binges in my future.
This is a heart-stopping, action-packed, intense, mystery with a serial killer, tension, intrigue, seers, vampires, chemistry, sizzle, science fiction, crime and investigation, deadly games of cat and mouse, murder, violence drama, danger, friendship, and so much more that I won’t get into here because I really don’t want to spoil it for you.
Ms. Andrijeski has a bold, dynamic, and very vivid writing style that easily brings her story to life- it was like watching a movie play out before my eyes, The descriptions are quite detailed and painted a powerful picture- I really could see this making a fantastic movie or television series.
Highly Recommended Reading!!!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, J.C. Andrijeski!
October 9, 2018
I usually apply what I call my “Dresden test” to this kind of book, looking to see how the lead character stacks up against Jim Butler’s Harry Dresden. Well, psychic detective Quentin Black, the star of JC Andrijeski’s Quentin Black Mystery series, more than satisfied that test. The first of the stories in this series was fantastic. This one, Black As Night, blew me away. In no time flat (this is only book 2, after all) Black has become a favorite character. Ho humm, poor Quentin, his day is unwantingly full of little things like tracking down who is grabbing street children and burning their bodies inside Buddhist temples, and dealing with minor inconveniences like a Russian crime syndicate that doesn’t particularly appreciate his meddling and is out to demonstrate its displeasure. This might not be fun for him or for his new employee, forensic psychologist Miri Fox, but for readers? Pure catnip that makes me want to purr. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - this book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m now joyously on to the next one.
May 5, 2019
THIS BOOK HAS TRIGGERS! See last paragraph below.
This author has me wrapped around her pinky. I love her characters, I love her plots, I love her settings, and I love the mystery. True, a lot of the frustration in the book could be solved if Quentin and Miriam talked to each other about their race, but then how much of a plot would there be?
I missed being able to find where we were in Bangkok. I enjoyed that in the first book, and I hope to be able to virtually tour wherever book 3 is set. It was fun to learn that it's the City of Angels.
This book's description should have come with trigger warnings. That's why I've included warnings in my review. However, I have to applaud the author because I think she's giving us an insight into human trafficking. Through Miriam, we see fear, surprise, hopelessness, and pain. Is that not what every adult trafficked human feels? And how much worse it must be for a child? Perhaps the author, in her own way, is trying to shed light on a huge social problem.
Not a stand alone book.
Contains sex scenes (rape over several days), swear words (mostly the F word), and violence (abduction, rape, chase scene with guns; references to children sexually abused, murdered, then burned; also to human trafficking).
This author has me wrapped around her pinky. I love her characters, I love her plots, I love her settings, and I love the mystery. True, a lot of the frustration in the book could be solved if Quentin and Miriam talked to each other about their race, but then how much of a plot would there be?
I missed being able to find where we were in Bangkok. I enjoyed that in the first book, and I hope to be able to virtually tour wherever book 3 is set. It was fun to learn that it's the City of Angels.
This book's description should have come with trigger warnings. That's why I've included warnings in my review. However, I have to applaud the author because I think she's giving us an insight into human trafficking. Through Miriam, we see fear, surprise, hopelessness, and pain. Is that not what every adult trafficked human feels? And how much worse it must be for a child? Perhaps the author, in her own way, is trying to shed light on a huge social problem.
Not a stand alone book.
Contains sex scenes (rape over several days), swear words (mostly the F word), and violence (abduction, rape, chase scene with guns; references to children sexually abused, murdered, then burned; also to human trafficking).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2019
𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝑨𝒔 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕, Quentin Black Mystery #2
by J.C. Andrijeski
Again, there are parts of this author's writing that I'm not fond of, but overall the storyline is tight and well-plotted, with a flow that compels the reader to keep reading. Lots of action. The proofing and editing are excellent. There is more than enough -- perhaps a little too much -- action. No cliffhanger ending, although this one was not as neatly tied up at the end as one might hope. And while I know it is an important subject that should be discussed in both real life and fiction, I wasn't fond of the sex trafficking of children angle.
When I first started this novel, I remembered that I had read the first in the series during the summer of 2018, a little over one year ago. I realized that I didn't remember the book as well as I would have liked, so I pulled it up out of the cloud and scanned/read most of it again to reacquaint myself with the characters and backstory. I'm glad I did that as it helped me to understand what the hell was going on.
I read to be entertained, and this novel was a little too gritty and grimy to be entertaining. Still I like the characters and like seeing them develop from one novel to the next, so, yes, I will keep reading this series.
by J.C. Andrijeski
Again, there are parts of this author's writing that I'm not fond of, but overall the storyline is tight and well-plotted, with a flow that compels the reader to keep reading. Lots of action. The proofing and editing are excellent. There is more than enough -- perhaps a little too much -- action. No cliffhanger ending, although this one was not as neatly tied up at the end as one might hope. And while I know it is an important subject that should be discussed in both real life and fiction, I wasn't fond of the sex trafficking of children angle.
When I first started this novel, I remembered that I had read the first in the series during the summer of 2018, a little over one year ago. I realized that I didn't remember the book as well as I would have liked, so I pulled it up out of the cloud and scanned/read most of it again to reacquaint myself with the characters and backstory. I'm glad I did that as it helped me to understand what the hell was going on.
I read to be entertained, and this novel was a little too gritty and grimy to be entertaining. Still I like the characters and like seeing them develop from one novel to the next, so, yes, I will keep reading this series.
July 8, 2018
Miri Fox is a Forensic Psychologist and suddenly finds herself on a plane getting her boss Quentin Black (a psychic detective) out of jail in Bangkok. When she gets there he is working undercover in a gang f local criminals trying to discover who is killing street children and then burning their bodies in a ritual inside a Buddhist shrine. However Black isn't the only one interested in the crimes as it comes to the attention of local sex traffickers and a Russian crime syndicate who don't like this interference.
Miri arriving and helping brings her to the attention of the wrong people and she is suddenly the one being hunted.
Wow - this is intense and full of drama, action, danger and raw emotion. I definitely found myself reading this quicker and quicker as I got more into the story and Miri was in more and more danger. Black was his usual self - dark, moody and very irresistible. Well written and very easy to get lost in the sights, sounds and emotions involved in the story.
** Please note there is a brutal rape scene in this story and so you might chose not to read it because of that.
Miri arriving and helping brings her to the attention of the wrong people and she is suddenly the one being hunted.
Wow - this is intense and full of drama, action, danger and raw emotion. I definitely found myself reading this quicker and quicker as I got more into the story and Miri was in more and more danger. Black was his usual self - dark, moody and very irresistible. Well written and very easy to get lost in the sights, sounds and emotions involved in the story.
** Please note there is a brutal rape scene in this story and so you might chose not to read it because of that.
May 31, 2020
Spoiler Alert
I loved the first book in this series and eagerly went to the next book. I did finish it but I am going to give it some time before I decide if I will continue the series, because the sexual violence. She is being courted by Black, the other main character, and she is putting him off, because he is an alien, and he wants to prepare her, and she wants to feel ready, to experience his physical difference. With the horrific rapes by an alien like Black, that go on for days, the tender love scene of surprise and discovery I was anticipating between her and Black, is ripped away permanently by the rapist, her fresh innocence never to return. The rape ruined the book for me, I never got into it again. I wish I had been warned there was sexual brutality in this book. Also, be prepared for graphic descriptions of horrific pedophilia. I am questioning my judgement for reading it as now I feel gloomy and disturbed. I gave it 4 stars because I love the main character, he's quite unique and wonderful, as is the heroine. But the plot was horrific for me.
I loved the first book in this series and eagerly went to the next book. I did finish it but I am going to give it some time before I decide if I will continue the series, because the sexual violence. She is being courted by Black, the other main character, and she is putting him off, because he is an alien, and he wants to prepare her, and she wants to feel ready, to experience his physical difference. With the horrific rapes by an alien like Black, that go on for days, the tender love scene of surprise and discovery I was anticipating between her and Black, is ripped away permanently by the rapist, her fresh innocence never to return. The rape ruined the book for me, I never got into it again. I wish I had been warned there was sexual brutality in this book. Also, be prepared for graphic descriptions of horrific pedophilia. I am questioning my judgement for reading it as now I feel gloomy and disturbed. I gave it 4 stars because I love the main character, he's quite unique and wonderful, as is the heroine. But the plot was horrific for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2017
This picks up with Miri left alone in San Francisco after the whole wedding killer thing was cleared up. Black disappeared and hasn't kept any contact despite the fact that he promised her answers about what she is. Out of the blue he demands her presence in Bangkok. She goes and finds him in the middle of an investigation into several murdered and one missing child. Unfortunately he introduces her to some shady people who take notice from her and now she is in some serious danger.
There were a few things I didn't like...I don't like how Black never answers her questions but then gets annoyed if she doesn't know something. I don't like how Miri lets him get away without answering her questions, you'd think she would really want to know more after her ordeal. I think the whole light thing with the pushing and pulling is very confusing, because it's never really explained. But in spite of all that, I love this series and I literally can't stop reading.
There were a few things I didn't like...I don't like how Black never answers her questions but then gets annoyed if she doesn't know something. I don't like how Miri lets him get away without answering her questions, you'd think she would really want to know more after her ordeal. I think the whole light thing with the pushing and pulling is very confusing, because it's never really explained. But in spite of all that, I love this series and I literally can't stop reading.
September 23, 2020
This book was one hell of a ride.
While most of the bad ratings /reviews were due to the rape scene, I didn't mind as much but a trigger warning would be fair. Some people argue that it was completely unnecessary, but personally I think it is a good way to gain more insight in the seer race in a "discrete, non-infodumping way". After all, the male seers so far really have some (sexual) issues with (the only) female seer(s) so far.
I really love Andrijeski's writing style, the heroine, the hero, how their relationship develops.
The author could, however, spend some more attention on the world building - especially answering some questions and explaining more about seers and their world, about Miri's parents, Quentin's background etc. So far Miri has been content not asking any questions and the talks they are supposed to have, keep being postponed.
But I still love it. I do. It's so vastly underrated.
While most of the bad ratings /reviews were due to the rape scene, I didn't mind as much but a trigger warning would be fair. Some people argue that it was completely unnecessary, but personally I think it is a good way to gain more insight in the seer race in a "discrete, non-infodumping way". After all, the male seers so far really have some (sexual) issues with (the only) female seer(s) so far.
I really love Andrijeski's writing style, the heroine, the hero, how their relationship develops.
The author could, however, spend some more attention on the world building - especially answering some questions and explaining more about seers and their world, about Miri's parents, Quentin's background etc. So far Miri has been content not asking any questions and the talks they are supposed to have, keep being postponed.
But I still love it. I do. It's so vastly underrated.
December 31, 2024
DNF on Audiobook at 50%.
This series had amazing potential but ruined by no TW Warning on Audible and Barely any on Ebook page. I’ve been warned the entire last half of book is same and even book 3 continues this.
I like dark romance,and can handle a lot.. but not this. It threw me into a full blown PTSD episode.
Absolutely the worst. This is the reason books need to have TW lists. Especially on Audiobooks.
Explicit 🍇 Scene with no warning. And not just physical, they’re psychic so the r*pist breaks her mentally/psychically to create a feedback loop so she experiences all her excruciating pain in addition to his sick sadistic pleasure and enjoyment of it on a mental and emotional level in addition to the physical. Multiple times.
Oh and it goes into discussion multiple times about human trafficking, children trafficking, and pedophilia. And the types of child/teen pedophilia as clinical diagnosis.
This series had amazing potential but ruined by no TW Warning on Audible and Barely any on Ebook page. I’ve been warned the entire last half of book is same and even book 3 continues this.
I like dark romance,and can handle a lot.. but not this. It threw me into a full blown PTSD episode.
Absolutely the worst. This is the reason books need to have TW lists. Especially on Audiobooks.
Explicit 🍇 Scene with no warning. And not just physical, they’re psychic so the r*pist breaks her mentally/psychically to create a feedback loop so she experiences all her excruciating pain in addition to his sick sadistic pleasure and enjoyment of it on a mental and emotional level in addition to the physical. Multiple times.
Oh and it goes into discussion multiple times about human trafficking, children trafficking, and pedophilia. And the types of child/teen pedophilia as clinical diagnosis.
February 19, 2021
This book had a dark edge, and people sensitive to child trafficking and rape should avoid this one and the next, as book 3 continues the thread. This is such an addictive plot line! I really enjoyed book one and had the rest of the series on my wishlist- when I received a gift card, books 2 and 3 were my splurge buys. My only real impatience with the story is the lack of advancement in the thread explaining the undertones of Black's relationship with Miri. I've never been of fan of the "I'll explain later" excuse, but this author does a great job of distracting the reader with fast-paced action and entertaining protagonists, so I've managed to stay involved in the reading. regardless of the relationship questions. I'm hooked -- we'll see if the author can keep it going!
May 20, 2024
this second instalment is following on the first book on the mission to confuse readers and make Quentin come across as a confused person who cannot really manage the events and relationship he is in with Miri. I find his behaviour but confusing and sometimes frustrating to read. in the end, considering his story and small view into his background, it kindof makes sense his reaction to Miri, but it is still frustrating to read.
Also, I think Miri's ordeal in Bangkok and psychological impact of it was not handled satisfactory for me. What happened was tragic and wrong and personal but I think Miri's reaction between "in military they trained us on it" and "it is different for Seers" is not realistic.
Also, I think Miri's ordeal in Bangkok and psychological impact of it was not handled satisfactory for me. What happened was tragic and wrong and personal but I think Miri's reaction between "in military they trained us on it" and "it is different for Seers" is not realistic.
August 29, 2018
This was a darker direction than I thought Andrijeski would take this series. The first book was so light, or as light as a book about a serial killer could be... I am interested to learn what exactly Mariam is and what she can do. She’s a halfbreed but does she have the same gifts as other seers? When is Black finally going to explain to her what she is? I feel like a lot of what happened to her in this book was his fault he kept her completely in the dark about other seers and how to manage her light which made her very vulnerable.
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