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Insighter #2
Deja New
The New York Times bestselling author of the Undead Novels takes on reincarnation in this unforgettable Insighter Novel about the pitfalls in past--and love--lives...
Leah Nazir lives in a world where the past can and will come back to bite you in the ass. No, not teething ghosts--reincarnation! As an Insighter, it's Leah's job to delve into the murky and (often) deadly former lives of her patients. And she knows a thing or two about danger after killing her mother's murderer with the help of new beau, Archer Drake.
Isn't he the best?
Now, it's time to take their relationship to the next level, but not in any way Leah could have predicted. She and Archer head to Chicago to meet his parents--and try to figure out why Archer's dad killed his brother decades ago. When someone tries to sabotage their investigation, Leah must decide if the Drake family past is a deal breaker...
Leah Nazir lives in a world where the past can and will come back to bite you in the ass. No, not teething ghosts--reincarnation! As an Insighter, it's Leah's job to delve into the murky and (often) deadly former lives of her patients. And she knows a thing or two about danger after killing her mother's murderer with the help of new beau, Archer Drake.
Isn't he the best?
Now, it's time to take their relationship to the next level, but not in any way Leah could have predicted. She and Archer head to Chicago to meet his parents--and try to figure out why Archer's dad killed his brother decades ago. When someone tries to sabotage their investigation, Leah must decide if the Drake family past is a deal breaker...
299 pages, Paperback
First published November 7, 2017
49 people are currently reading
1071 people want to read
About the author
MaryJanice Davidson
142 books5,397 followersMaryJanice Davidson is an American author and motivational speaker who writes mostly paranormal romance, but also young adult and non-fiction. She is the creator of the popular UNDEAD series and the time-traveling historical fiction A CONTEMPORARY ASSHAT AT THE COURT OF HENRY VIII. MaryJanice is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author who writes a bi-weekly column for USA Today and lives in St. Paul with her family. You can reach her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 12, 2017
Strap yourself in for a whirlwind of chaos, past and present as the Insighters plunge themselves into the often murky past lives of those around them. Hey, it’s a job, someone has to do it! Dark humor, dark secrets and an overwhelming sense of being caught in a kaleidoscope on a merry-go-round pretty much describes the constant motion this tale is in.
Can you imagine being able to see the past lives of others, as well as your own? Not sure who would need therapy more, those being “treated’ or those doing the “treating.” Murder, mayhem and confessions abound, but Leah must find the truth, somewhere in time.
DEJA NEW by MaryJanice Davidson is like a dark comedy run amok. Sit back, relax, take a Dramamine if necessary, this is going to be one heck of a ride! You'll love it or you will walk away shaking your head, either way you will remember this one. I kind of did both.
I am voluntarily reviewing this ARC edition offered by Berkley.
Series: Insighter - Book 2
Publisher: Berkley (November 7, 2017)
Publication Date: November 7, 2017
Genre: Paranormal Dark Comedy
Print Length: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Can you imagine being able to see the past lives of others, as well as your own? Not sure who would need therapy more, those being “treated’ or those doing the “treating.” Murder, mayhem and confessions abound, but Leah must find the truth, somewhere in time.
DEJA NEW by MaryJanice Davidson is like a dark comedy run amok. Sit back, relax, take a Dramamine if necessary, this is going to be one heck of a ride! You'll love it or you will walk away shaking your head, either way you will remember this one. I kind of did both.
I am voluntarily reviewing this ARC edition offered by Berkley.
Series: Insighter - Book 2
Publisher: Berkley (November 7, 2017)
Publication Date: November 7, 2017
Genre: Paranormal Dark Comedy
Print Length: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 17, 2025
Caught in a world where you see everyone’s past lives, as well as your own, can be pretty confusing…to put it mildly. Leah is an Insighter, with the ability and it is her job to submerge herself in the past and sometimes it's darker than you think.
Leah is heading with her boyfriend Archer to Chicago to meet his parents. But when they arrive Leah and Archer embark on the mystery why his father killed his own brother years ago.
Holy Moly, talk about sensory overload. Deja New is a high velocity, caffeine-induced, storytelling that sends your imagination spinning with amazing and vividly visual results.
I received this ARC copy of Deja New from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. Deja New is set for publication November 7, 2017.
Leah is heading with her boyfriend Archer to Chicago to meet his parents. But when they arrive Leah and Archer embark on the mystery why his father killed his own brother years ago.
Holy Moly, talk about sensory overload. Deja New is a high velocity, caffeine-induced, storytelling that sends your imagination spinning with amazing and vividly visual results.
I received this ARC copy of Deja New from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. Deja New is set for publication November 7, 2017.
November 3, 2017
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2017/11/review-...
Grade: C+
Favorite Quote: “If I didn’t put on my pants for the mayor, I’m not doing it for Leah Nazir. Or our brother.”
Angela Drake’s father was murdered by his brother and sentenced to life in prison. Angela’s mother checked out of life and her cousins came to live with them. Angela is convinced her uncle did not murder her father and is dead set on getting him a new trial. When her cousin, Archer Drake comes home to introduce his girlfriend, the famous Insighter Leah Nazir, Angela thinks this might be exactly what she needs to get results.
“Hon, you’d better speak up if you want to be heard over all our voices and all the voices in our heads.”
I’ve always been fascinated with the concept of reincarnation and the differing philosophy surrounding it. Some feel your actions in one life will affect your next life while others believe you are doomed to repeat the same actions over and over until something happens to break the chain. Some, like me, believe you ascend levels with each new life until you finally achieve nirvana. MaryJanice Davidson’s latest series deals with reincarnation, the influence past lives have on us, and those people who are able to not only see our past lives but try and use that information to help people.
This series is an overly caffeinated dark comedy when one woman sets out to right a wrong. No matter what anybody says. Rather like being on a Tilt a Whirl, Davidson has a multitude storylines spinning independently of one another. It reminded me a little of the movie Inception with its energy and rapidly changing landscape. The beginning confused me. I felt as if I had been dropped in a foreign country with no translator. Davidson does a massive information dump in her prologue, explaining the various events she references in the story and begging forgiveness for certain liberties she takes. The narrative is on speed and head hopping takes some getting used to. Noisy and peculiar in its layout, there is a method to Davidson’s madness. You just have to willing to ride it out until it starts to settle and the truth emerges like a phoenix rising from the ashes.
“Didn’t Archer kill a guy last month? I mean literally murder the hell out of someone?”
“Don’t talk about that either! Honestly! It’s like you guys aren’t even reading the memos I send out!”
Very dry wit and an abundance of eccentric characters adds to the general feeling of bedlam. The Drake family are a study in chaos and entertain from the first meeting. They are a Vegas act ready to take on the road but as you spend more time with them, you can feel the desperation and fear that flows under their jovial attitudes. The death of their father and their mother’s grief has left them all in limbo. Even Angela’s need to prove her uncle’s innocence unwittingly traps them as they all wait with bated breath to see if this time she will be successful.
“We’ve been in a soap opera for ten years!”
“Not even a good one, like Days of Our Lives. A dumb shitty one, like Judge Judy.”
The continuation of Leah and Archer’s story reveals alongside the main conflict though they didn’t necessarily blend well. Leah’s interactions with the Drakes is well done but the occasional moments where it’s just Leah and Archer present seem random and peculiar. Leah seems warmer and more honest with herself as she acknowledges her own unease about her past, present, and future. Some readers may find it odd that while Leah and Archer are the acknowledged series leads, this is definitely Angela’s story. Her character is well defined and very amusing. Her internal monologues are the clues needed to understand her. As the story progresses, we learn of Angela’s own Insighter skills, her various past lives, and the one aspect that motivates her. Her crush on the policeman helping her is deliciously sweet with a hint of tart as she waxes poetic over his choice of socks and quotes movie lines in her embarrassment.
“They didn’t even move the bodies! They just moved the headstones!”
Davidson wraps up the main conflict, giving Angela the resolution she needed while leaving the door wide open for more Drake madness in the future. The subplot concerning Lean and Archer’s relationship is certainly “unique’ and I’m curious to see where Davidson goes with this. While this series requires some patience and ninja comprehension, I am looking forward to seeing where Davidson takes it. I don’t recommend reading the series out of order even though this could be technically considered a standalone.
Grade: C+
Favorite Quote: “If I didn’t put on my pants for the mayor, I’m not doing it for Leah Nazir. Or our brother.”
Angela Drake’s father was murdered by his brother and sentenced to life in prison. Angela’s mother checked out of life and her cousins came to live with them. Angela is convinced her uncle did not murder her father and is dead set on getting him a new trial. When her cousin, Archer Drake comes home to introduce his girlfriend, the famous Insighter Leah Nazir, Angela thinks this might be exactly what she needs to get results.
“Hon, you’d better speak up if you want to be heard over all our voices and all the voices in our heads.”
I’ve always been fascinated with the concept of reincarnation and the differing philosophy surrounding it. Some feel your actions in one life will affect your next life while others believe you are doomed to repeat the same actions over and over until something happens to break the chain. Some, like me, believe you ascend levels with each new life until you finally achieve nirvana. MaryJanice Davidson’s latest series deals with reincarnation, the influence past lives have on us, and those people who are able to not only see our past lives but try and use that information to help people.
This series is an overly caffeinated dark comedy when one woman sets out to right a wrong. No matter what anybody says. Rather like being on a Tilt a Whirl, Davidson has a multitude storylines spinning independently of one another. It reminded me a little of the movie Inception with its energy and rapidly changing landscape. The beginning confused me. I felt as if I had been dropped in a foreign country with no translator. Davidson does a massive information dump in her prologue, explaining the various events she references in the story and begging forgiveness for certain liberties she takes. The narrative is on speed and head hopping takes some getting used to. Noisy and peculiar in its layout, there is a method to Davidson’s madness. You just have to willing to ride it out until it starts to settle and the truth emerges like a phoenix rising from the ashes.
“Didn’t Archer kill a guy last month? I mean literally murder the hell out of someone?”
“Don’t talk about that either! Honestly! It’s like you guys aren’t even reading the memos I send out!”
Very dry wit and an abundance of eccentric characters adds to the general feeling of bedlam. The Drake family are a study in chaos and entertain from the first meeting. They are a Vegas act ready to take on the road but as you spend more time with them, you can feel the desperation and fear that flows under their jovial attitudes. The death of their father and their mother’s grief has left them all in limbo. Even Angela’s need to prove her uncle’s innocence unwittingly traps them as they all wait with bated breath to see if this time she will be successful.
“We’ve been in a soap opera for ten years!”
“Not even a good one, like Days of Our Lives. A dumb shitty one, like Judge Judy.”
The continuation of Leah and Archer’s story reveals alongside the main conflict though they didn’t necessarily blend well. Leah’s interactions with the Drakes is well done but the occasional moments where it’s just Leah and Archer present seem random and peculiar. Leah seems warmer and more honest with herself as she acknowledges her own unease about her past, present, and future. Some readers may find it odd that while Leah and Archer are the acknowledged series leads, this is definitely Angela’s story. Her character is well defined and very amusing. Her internal monologues are the clues needed to understand her. As the story progresses, we learn of Angela’s own Insighter skills, her various past lives, and the one aspect that motivates her. Her crush on the policeman helping her is deliciously sweet with a hint of tart as she waxes poetic over his choice of socks and quotes movie lines in her embarrassment.
“They didn’t even move the bodies! They just moved the headstones!”
Davidson wraps up the main conflict, giving Angela the resolution she needed while leaving the door wide open for more Drake madness in the future. The subplot concerning Lean and Archer’s relationship is certainly “unique’ and I’m curious to see where Davidson goes with this. While this series requires some patience and ninja comprehension, I am looking forward to seeing where Davidson takes it. I don’t recommend reading the series out of order even though this could be technically considered a standalone.
January 11, 2018
In some ways this was better than book #1, in other ways not so much.
This book centered more on Archer's family, especially his cousin (and/or sister) Angela. I have to say by the end of this book (or maybe the middle) I felt they should have put a genealogy chart in the front of the book. Really.
I loved the pairing of depressed police detective Jason and bipolar Angela. I hope we see more of them.
But the ending.... I read it twice and I still don't understand. Oh, well....
This book centered more on Archer's family, especially his cousin (and/or sister) Angela. I have to say by the end of this book (or maybe the middle) I felt they should have put a genealogy chart in the front of the book. Really.
I loved the pairing of depressed police detective Jason and bipolar Angela. I hope we see more of them.
But the ending.... I read it twice and I still don't understand. Oh, well....
November 2, 2017
Time for book 2 in the Insighter series. I readily admitted I struggled with the first book because, while I loved the concept, I was less than thrilled that it was humorous. So now I am over that and ready to jump into Deja New and lose myself in Leah’s world.
…To be somewhat disappointed. Again.
Don’t get me wrong. I did enjoy the book. However, Leah felt to be more of a secondary character this time around. The focal point of this story is Archer’s family. In a nutshell, Archer’s dad killed his brother years ago. He willingly turned himself in and has been server his time. Too willingly. Angela, Archer’s cousin, doesn’t believe Uncle Dennis is guilty and has been trying to solve the crime ever since she became of age while also trying to support her family. In the Drake family household live the various Drake cousins and siblings as well as their mother, Emma, which is a ghost of herself since the death of her husband. She and Archer head to Chicago so she can meet the family and possibly help figure out who the real killer is.
If you haven’t read the first book in the series, I suggest putting this book down and starting from the beginning. Once you have read the first book, still expect to feel confused once you start this one. I’ve read them both and still get lost. And what is so hard and throws me off? The Insighter’s flashbacks. I’ll get to that in a moment. The story (without the Insighter interruptions) is fun and fast-paced. There are quite a few characters to keep up with however, the main focus falls on Angela. She is very much a dog with a bone determined to find out who really killed her father, and while sometimes her tenacity can be annoying, the lengths she goes to are still entertaining. She has quite the crush on Detective Jason Chambers, who also harbors a secret crush and watching them dance around their secrets feelings was fairly comical. The dialog within the Drake family household is quick, snappy and will leave your head spinning trying to keep up on who’s who. My advice is just to pay attention to Jack and ignore the rest.
And now for the Insighter interruptions. They are hard to absorb. Yes, they have a purpose to the story, but it takes a long time before you begin to figure out why. No, I’m not explaining their purpose. If I had to figure it out so should you except I will say they have to do with Angela. Unfortunately, while they are a necessary evil, I find they do tend to cause too much disruption to the flow of the story.
Comedy and chaos are what rule the murder mystery in Deja New. It’s served up with a bit of romance and quite a few quirky characters that you may or may not want to remember. The moments that stand out to me do make the book worth the read although the Insighter flashbacks tend to be a buzzkill. If nothing else, I would read it to find out about the latest with Leah and Archer. A baby and what a baby that is going to be! ACK!
I received this book from The JeepDiva with the express purpose of an honest review. The opinions, contents, and rating of this review are solely mine
Stars - 3.5, Flames - 2
…To be somewhat disappointed. Again.
Don’t get me wrong. I did enjoy the book. However, Leah felt to be more of a secondary character this time around. The focal point of this story is Archer’s family. In a nutshell, Archer’s dad killed his brother years ago. He willingly turned himself in and has been server his time. Too willingly. Angela, Archer’s cousin, doesn’t believe Uncle Dennis is guilty and has been trying to solve the crime ever since she became of age while also trying to support her family. In the Drake family household live the various Drake cousins and siblings as well as their mother, Emma, which is a ghost of herself since the death of her husband. She and Archer head to Chicago so she can meet the family and possibly help figure out who the real killer is.
If you haven’t read the first book in the series, I suggest putting this book down and starting from the beginning. Once you have read the first book, still expect to feel confused once you start this one. I’ve read them both and still get lost. And what is so hard and throws me off? The Insighter’s flashbacks. I’ll get to that in a moment. The story (without the Insighter interruptions) is fun and fast-paced. There are quite a few characters to keep up with however, the main focus falls on Angela. She is very much a dog with a bone determined to find out who really killed her father, and while sometimes her tenacity can be annoying, the lengths she goes to are still entertaining. She has quite the crush on Detective Jason Chambers, who also harbors a secret crush and watching them dance around their secrets feelings was fairly comical. The dialog within the Drake family household is quick, snappy and will leave your head spinning trying to keep up on who’s who. My advice is just to pay attention to Jack and ignore the rest.
And now for the Insighter interruptions. They are hard to absorb. Yes, they have a purpose to the story, but it takes a long time before you begin to figure out why. No, I’m not explaining their purpose. If I had to figure it out so should you except I will say they have to do with Angela. Unfortunately, while they are a necessary evil, I find they do tend to cause too much disruption to the flow of the story.
Comedy and chaos are what rule the murder mystery in Deja New. It’s served up with a bit of romance and quite a few quirky characters that you may or may not want to remember. The moments that stand out to me do make the book worth the read although the Insighter flashbacks tend to be a buzzkill. If nothing else, I would read it to find out about the latest with Leah and Archer. A baby and what a baby that is going to be! ACK!
I received this book from The JeepDiva with the express purpose of an honest review. The opinions, contents, and rating of this review are solely mine
Stars - 3.5, Flames - 2
December 12, 2017
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
**Spoilers for the first book of the Insighter series, DEJA WHO, are a bit unavoidable, so please don't read this review if you're planning on reading DEJA WHO!**
DEJA NEW follows DEJA WHO with the same amount of humor, sarcasm, and interesting storytelling. Between the characters' parenthetical inner monologues, flashbacks, and footnotes, DEJA NEW is a creatively told romance with a heavy dose of mystery.
My biggest issue with that the mystery was confusing, since the murderer was named Dennis and the victim was Donald, and they were brothers. And then there were all of Archer's cousins and siblings all living together, and there was not a clear delineation of who was who. Which really worked with the chaotic feeling of the household, but also made it a bit hard to figure out relationships.
In this book, Leah wasn't the main focus as she was in DEJA WHO, and the romance shifted from Leah and Archer to Angela and the police detective, Jason. It is a sweet romance, and Angela is a compelling protagonist, just not as amusing as Leah. Jason is adorable and so cute with Angela. Overall, the characters' interactions with each other were my favorite parts of the book. I could have done without the flashbacks of the various past lives, and like I said, the mystery wasn't super clear (the end reveal was not as compelling as it could have been). But I felt it was well done, with just enough time spent on each aspect of the story and subplots that I felt satisfied at the end with the resolution of most of the issues.
All in all, if you've read DEJA WHO, DEJA NEW is a fun continuation of Leah and Archer's story, with the addition of some new characters and a little bit of drama regarding Leah's baby. If you haven't, there isn't much that the reader needs to know about the first book, so you could read this book as a standalone, but you might feel a bit confused about the world, since it is so different and unique amongst the paranormal romance genre. As I loved DEJA WHO, I would definitely recommend the Insighter series to somebody looking for an off-the-wall paranormal romance with humor and heart.
Sexual content: Brief, non-explicit, sex scenes
**Spoilers for the first book of the Insighter series, DEJA WHO, are a bit unavoidable, so please don't read this review if you're planning on reading DEJA WHO!**
DEJA NEW follows DEJA WHO with the same amount of humor, sarcasm, and interesting storytelling. Between the characters' parenthetical inner monologues, flashbacks, and footnotes, DEJA NEW is a creatively told romance with a heavy dose of mystery.
My biggest issue with that the mystery was confusing, since the murderer was named Dennis and the victim was Donald, and they were brothers. And then there were all of Archer's cousins and siblings all living together, and there was not a clear delineation of who was who. Which really worked with the chaotic feeling of the household, but also made it a bit hard to figure out relationships.
In this book, Leah wasn't the main focus as she was in DEJA WHO, and the romance shifted from Leah and Archer to Angela and the police detective, Jason. It is a sweet romance, and Angela is a compelling protagonist, just not as amusing as Leah. Jason is adorable and so cute with Angela. Overall, the characters' interactions with each other were my favorite parts of the book. I could have done without the flashbacks of the various past lives, and like I said, the mystery wasn't super clear (the end reveal was not as compelling as it could have been). But I felt it was well done, with just enough time spent on each aspect of the story and subplots that I felt satisfied at the end with the resolution of most of the issues.
All in all, if you've read DEJA WHO, DEJA NEW is a fun continuation of Leah and Archer's story, with the addition of some new characters and a little bit of drama regarding Leah's baby. If you haven't, there isn't much that the reader needs to know about the first book, so you could read this book as a standalone, but you might feel a bit confused about the world, since it is so different and unique amongst the paranormal romance genre. As I loved DEJA WHO, I would definitely recommend the Insighter series to somebody looking for an off-the-wall paranormal romance with humor and heart.
Sexual content: Brief, non-explicit, sex scenes
December 6, 2017
I appreciated the second installment to this series more than the first because I felt like there was more depth this time around verses what we got in the first book however that depth also caused quite a bit of confusion as well. The past verse present lay over dialogue was a tad complex for me as the reader as well as poor Leah.
I still enjoy the new concept as the whole reincarnation thing isn't often used in romance I would like to see more of it in the future.
Confusion aside I felt Davidson did a much better job bringing the reader in this time around, making it worth a revisit to this series. My interest in the third installment is also piqued.
I still enjoy the new concept as the whole reincarnation thing isn't often used in romance I would like to see more of it in the future.
Confusion aside I felt Davidson did a much better job bringing the reader in this time around, making it worth a revisit to this series. My interest in the third installment is also piqued.
July 28, 2018
I truly love this series! Imagine knowing all the past lives of everyone you meet with just a touch? Leah has being doing this most of her life. She uses her ability to help clients understand how their past lives affect this life. She meets Archer and discovers that he has no past life. Love ensues.
For this novel Archer brings Leah to meet his family. Apparently Archer’s father is in prison serving a life sentence because he killed his brother. It’s been ten years since any of them have visited the prisoner but if you’re going to meet the family you have to cover all the bases. Especially since Archer’s cousin, Angela is also an Insighter and hopes Leah can get to the truth of her father’s murder.
This is a terrific and hilarious story! The mystery is wonderful and the romances are lovely!
Just because Insighters can see all the past lives doesn’t mean this life isn’t full of surprises!
For this novel Archer brings Leah to meet his family. Apparently Archer’s father is in prison serving a life sentence because he killed his brother. It’s been ten years since any of them have visited the prisoner but if you’re going to meet the family you have to cover all the bases. Especially since Archer’s cousin, Angela is also an Insighter and hopes Leah can get to the truth of her father’s murder.
This is a terrific and hilarious story! The mystery is wonderful and the romances are lovely!
Just because Insighters can see all the past lives doesn’t mean this life isn’t full of surprises!
November 8, 2017
So, I’ve had this book in the pile since June – hoping to find the time to get the first in the series read before starting this. All good plans and all that, and the time never opened up- and fortunately there wasn’t a real need for me to read the first to understand this one. And believe me, there is plenty happening in this story, and it does start a bit strangely with plenty of historic information provided for people whose lives will impact the characters here. The start of this story feels very chaotic, a chaos often reflected in the interactions in the Drake family – the stars of the show – with Leah (from the first book) becoming more of a secondary character and bringer of sense (and some of her own concerns) into this story. But I digress This is essentially the story of Angela Drake, de facto mother and father figure of her household full of brothers and cousins, each with their own quirks and approach to life. She’s been the parent figure for years – since her uncle’s death, father’s imprisonment, and her mother’s retreat into her own grief, and she’s also working hard to make up for the mistakes in her past lives. Yes, Angela is an insighter, but one who would prefer not to see past lives or deal with that, at least not until she’s managed to solve her father’s murder and get her uncle out of jail. When her cousin Archer and his fiancé Leah Nazir arrive, Angela is a bit in awe of Leah, but hopes that she can provide more information that will bring them closer to the truth.
When the second detective interested in the case, Jason Carpenter, with his sock collection, general dysthymia and an attraction to Angela that he can’t deny no matter how hard he tries, the story starts to turn a bit, as no new information is forthcoming, her father is pushing them away and refusing to allow visits, and Angela can’t let go – even faced with all the dead ends. When you add in her obsession with Jason, Leah’s pregnancy, Jack’s mood swings and a mother who is so disengaged as to be ghostly, the story brings in excerpts from diaries, thoughts, references to oddness galore. Oh there is so much information to process, information that just seems to add to a miasma of strange and disconnected until the threads start to work together into a story that is both darkly humorous and compelling. If, as Angela believes, her father did not kill his brother despite confessing, who was responsible and why. And just how many roadblocks will she have to face in her quest, or will she ever be able to ‘make up” for her own past lives shortcomings. And what about her sock fetish – yes, she’s intrigued and can’t wait to glimpse Jason’s ankles every time they meet.
Honestly, I was confused as all get out in the beginning of the story, and never quite sure just how all of the seemingly random insets would come together in any meaningful way – but I persevered specifically because my curiosity wouldn’t let go. With insets of humor that mixed outright laughs to clever placement that reveals itself gradually, the story picked up in pace and understanding about 30% in, and I had to know what happened. Why was Jack so moody, why couldn’t Leah sleep, were the Drakes ALWAYS so loud and irreverent, and would Angela and Jason ever overcome her own issues about her life and past lives? So much goodness – including mouthwatering culinary creations from Jack, love and understanding that was offered unconditionally, quiet advice and hope for the future. I may have found this world and the people within in a bit confusing at first but they are not forgettable, and I’m left wanting to know what’s next.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
When the second detective interested in the case, Jason Carpenter, with his sock collection, general dysthymia and an attraction to Angela that he can’t deny no matter how hard he tries, the story starts to turn a bit, as no new information is forthcoming, her father is pushing them away and refusing to allow visits, and Angela can’t let go – even faced with all the dead ends. When you add in her obsession with Jason, Leah’s pregnancy, Jack’s mood swings and a mother who is so disengaged as to be ghostly, the story brings in excerpts from diaries, thoughts, references to oddness galore. Oh there is so much information to process, information that just seems to add to a miasma of strange and disconnected until the threads start to work together into a story that is both darkly humorous and compelling. If, as Angela believes, her father did not kill his brother despite confessing, who was responsible and why. And just how many roadblocks will she have to face in her quest, or will she ever be able to ‘make up” for her own past lives shortcomings. And what about her sock fetish – yes, she’s intrigued and can’t wait to glimpse Jason’s ankles every time they meet.
Honestly, I was confused as all get out in the beginning of the story, and never quite sure just how all of the seemingly random insets would come together in any meaningful way – but I persevered specifically because my curiosity wouldn’t let go. With insets of humor that mixed outright laughs to clever placement that reveals itself gradually, the story picked up in pace and understanding about 30% in, and I had to know what happened. Why was Jack so moody, why couldn’t Leah sleep, were the Drakes ALWAYS so loud and irreverent, and would Angela and Jason ever overcome her own issues about her life and past lives? So much goodness – including mouthwatering culinary creations from Jack, love and understanding that was offered unconditionally, quiet advice and hope for the future. I may have found this world and the people within in a bit confusing at first but they are not forgettable, and I’m left wanting to know what’s next.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
August 30, 2017
ARC/Romance: I give up. I got 114 pages into the book and I give up. I don’t care. I really tried. I saw a paperback of the first book at 2nd & Charles earlier in the year and I didn’t get it. Then I won this book and realized it was book 2. So I went back to the store to get the first one with the plan that I would read it before my ARC showed up in the mail. Of course, it was gone. I went to another used book store; no dice. I went to Barnes to use my gift card; nope. The book showed up and I was completely lost in the first three pages of chapter 1. I read the back of the book, which I normally don’t do because I feel a good book shouldn’t have crib notes. I went on Wikipedia to find crib notes of the first book; doesn’t exist. So, I downloaded the preview of the first book from Barnes because the Nook copy was $11! It helped…very little. By then, I just didn’t care and only could bring myself to read this book during my breaks at work. I hated it. It made no sense most of the time and when it did make sense, my mind drifted. When I did get into it, I’m come across a footnote*.
You have to read the first book or you’ll end up like me: bitter. I didn’t understand the setting or “verse”, too many characters were thrown at me with no explanation, and the main character’s background came to me in bits and pieces until I didn’t care. The book had too many elements of the Betsy books: cop love interest and “Ant” verses “Skull”. (FYI: I know Betsy is shallow, but she’s one of my fictional BFFs).
FINALLY, CHAPTER SIX REALLY PISSED ME OFF!!! After the suicides of Chris Cornell and Chester Bennington, I really did not think a description of someone committing suicide by hanging was all that fucking entertaining.
This ARC was given to me by GoodReads in lieu of an honest review.
*And the footnote would take me away from the story for no reason but for the author to be fanciful.
You have to read the first book or you’ll end up like me: bitter. I didn’t understand the setting or “verse”, too many characters were thrown at me with no explanation, and the main character’s background came to me in bits and pieces until I didn’t care. The book had too many elements of the Betsy books: cop love interest and “Ant” verses “Skull”. (FYI: I know Betsy is shallow, but she’s one of my fictional BFFs).
FINALLY, CHAPTER SIX REALLY PISSED ME OFF!!! After the suicides of Chris Cornell and Chester Bennington, I really did not think a description of someone committing suicide by hanging was all that fucking entertaining.
This ARC was given to me by GoodReads in lieu of an honest review.
*And the footnote would take me away from the story for no reason but for the author to be fanciful.
June 25, 2022
Ok, so as I started to read this, I thought, "I'm missing something. I have NO IDEA what's going on."
Goodreads to the rescue; as I discovered this was book #2 & I hadn't read #1. That solved that.
The gist I got was this a paranormal/romance/mystery where reincarnation & past lives are the paranormal aspect.
I still did a lot of "huh? wth? I really don't understand what's going on..."
Be that as it may, I did complete it. Why?
Because MJD had her trademark humor & engaging characters in this new series. (Huge fan of her other paranormal books-Undead/Queen Betsy series, Wyndham werewolves, Fred the mermaid)
So while I didn't completely like/get all of the story aspects, I did enjoy the humor. And I liked the characters.
So now I will go back & read book #1. And yeah...I'll probably read the next book in the series if there is one.
Goodreads to the rescue; as I discovered this was book #2 & I hadn't read #1. That solved that.
The gist I got was this a paranormal/romance/mystery where reincarnation & past lives are the paranormal aspect.
I still did a lot of "huh? wth? I really don't understand what's going on..."
Be that as it may, I did complete it. Why?
Because MJD had her trademark humor & engaging characters in this new series. (Huge fan of her other paranormal books-Undead/Queen Betsy series, Wyndham werewolves, Fred the mermaid)
So while I didn't completely like/get all of the story aspects, I did enjoy the humor. And I liked the characters.
So now I will go back & read book #1. And yeah...I'll probably read the next book in the series if there is one.
Read
September 9, 2017DNF. I didn't love book one, but I enjoyed aspects of it, particularly the concept of Insighters and reincarnation. It was my hope that book two would deliver. Sadly, even at 35%, I was not hooked, and when a book cannot hold my attention, I have learned it's time to set it aside. Sadly such was the case with Deja New. I still love the concept; this just wasn't for me.
August 15, 2017
i always thought i was the first woman in creation to have a sock crush. this is going to be her best series yet, love all of her work. this is happy and rompy and joyful but dark humor oh my.
November 6, 2017
During the first book, Deja Who, I had a difficult time adjusting to the writing style of MaryJanice Davidson. A lot of my problem revolved around the characters thought narration. Their thoughts were like they were interrupting themselves and I had a hard time with that. This is also something I noticed in Deja New, however, this time I was prepared for it. It still had me reading sentences over a second or third time, because I would lose track of the purpose of the sentence when their thoughts would wander off then return.
I did enjoy the Drake family and all their different personalities. They were a fun bunch and really brought out some smiles during the book. Archer and Leah are back, although after the first encounter at ICC failed, I wasn't sure why they stayed on in the story. It was mostly focused on Angela and her fight for the man she believes is wrongly in jail. Besides a mind blowing revelation of Leah's, and a little help from her for Jack, Archer and Leah don't really play much of a part in Deja New.
Despite being mesmerized by the story, I was confused by the mystery. Even at the end, I still don't think I completely understand the purpose behind the actions of the characters. We do go through a scene where it is explained to Angela, but for some reason the motives that are explained, don't seem like substantial motives to me. It was a bit puzzling for me. I'm still not sure I understand exactly why what happened happened. It was a mystery for sure!
The mystery and the writing may have dampened some of the enjoyment of the book for me, but the characters really brought life to the story. Learning about each of them was fun and entertaining. I'd love to see more of them. I'm determined to be able to read this style of writing without the problem of losing train of thought. I also found the chapters going back to previous lives a little distracting and kept trying to apply them to the present characters.
Overall, I found I had a few problems with the book, but I felt the characters really saved it for me. They were interesting enough that they kept me entertained through most of my confusion.
Insighter Series
This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
I did enjoy the Drake family and all their different personalities. They were a fun bunch and really brought out some smiles during the book. Archer and Leah are back, although after the first encounter at ICC failed, I wasn't sure why they stayed on in the story. It was mostly focused on Angela and her fight for the man she believes is wrongly in jail. Besides a mind blowing revelation of Leah's, and a little help from her for Jack, Archer and Leah don't really play much of a part in Deja New.
Despite being mesmerized by the story, I was confused by the mystery. Even at the end, I still don't think I completely understand the purpose behind the actions of the characters. We do go through a scene where it is explained to Angela, but for some reason the motives that are explained, don't seem like substantial motives to me. It was a bit puzzling for me. I'm still not sure I understand exactly why what happened happened. It was a mystery for sure!
The mystery and the writing may have dampened some of the enjoyment of the book for me, but the characters really brought life to the story. Learning about each of them was fun and entertaining. I'd love to see more of them. I'm determined to be able to read this style of writing without the problem of losing train of thought. I also found the chapters going back to previous lives a little distracting and kept trying to apply them to the present characters.
Overall, I found I had a few problems with the book, but I felt the characters really saved it for me. They were interesting enough that they kept me entertained through most of my confusion.
Insighter Series
This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
November 8, 2017
Deja New is the second novel in MaryJanice Davidson’s Insighters series, and if you haven’t read the first one, you might as well give this one a miss. While the main character of this one, Angela, is a new protagonist, the main character from the first novel, Leah Nazir, is in this plenty. Her backstory is revisited enough for us to get a general idea of what might have happened in the first book, but the problem is that the world-building the reader needs to understand what Insighters are and how their world works is pretty much skimmed over entirely.
This isn’t like the Queen Betsy series (Undead and Unwed etc.) where the reader knows what vampires and shapeshifters are. This is a whole new universe and Insighters have powers that aren’t really explained clearly - they appear to be like mediums on steroids, but there are a bunch of other things that are really not explained and left me completely bemused.
As a consequence, I struggled to warm to Angela - particularly when she pulled a horrible move on her love interest and basically said ‘wham bam thank you man’. It’s a foul move when a man does it and it’s no better from a woman; I was thoroughly turned off her at that moment. Reasons behind her behaviour or not, it was still a move that made me dislike her, which made me disinterested in the rest of the story.
If you read the first one, you might like this. I haven’t read the first one and I just couldn’t get into it. Three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley..
This isn’t like the Queen Betsy series (Undead and Unwed etc.) where the reader knows what vampires and shapeshifters are. This is a whole new universe and Insighters have powers that aren’t really explained clearly - they appear to be like mediums on steroids, but there are a bunch of other things that are really not explained and left me completely bemused.
As a consequence, I struggled to warm to Angela - particularly when she pulled a horrible move on her love interest and basically said ‘wham bam thank you man’. It’s a foul move when a man does it and it’s no better from a woman; I was thoroughly turned off her at that moment. Reasons behind her behaviour or not, it was still a move that made me dislike her, which made me disinterested in the rest of the story.
If you read the first one, you might like this. I haven’t read the first one and I just couldn’t get into it. Three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley..
October 8, 2017
The Insighter series deals with unique individuals with the ability to see the past lives of other people as well as their own. Inevitably, these past lives seem to bleed into current ones requiring some therapeutic intervention to heal the ensuing crisis. Although this is the second book in a series, it is a stand alone. The author’s sense of humor is dry and understated, resulting in an intentional chaotic nature to the relationships and characters that is meant to be funny. Sometimes it misses its mark and just seems overwhelming. As the story progresses, the author builds on the noise and a good tale starts to emerge. There is a classic murder mystery hidden here amidst the reincarnation, romance and hijinks of the book. A man has been convicted of killing his brother and is serving his time perhaps too willingly. He accepted a deal without question and has refused to see his or his brother’s children over the previous decade. Naturally, the children believe him innocent. There is a lot going on in this book, with a bit of patience, the reader will be rewarded with a very good tale complete with all the fixings of love, murder and reincarnation. Sweet stuff, indeed. I received my copy from the publisher through Netgalley.
July 17, 2017
When everyone is reincarnated and there are Insighters who can see your past lives, it can be hard to live this life without letting your pasts affect your present. Angela is convinced that her uncle did not murder her father, no matter how many times he insists that he did. With the help of a few of her many family members and the cute new detective that's been working the case (she is NOT going to swoon over his sock choices), Angela is determined to solve this and find out the truth.
I was so excited to get this new MaryJanice Davidson book from Netgalley. I loved most of her other books and was not yet aware of this series but it is full of her signature quirky characters. I haven't read book 1 yet so there were a few things I didn't quite understand at first but it works well enough as a standalone.
I was so excited to get this new MaryJanice Davidson book from Netgalley. I loved most of her other books and was not yet aware of this series but it is full of her signature quirky characters. I haven't read book 1 yet so there were a few things I didn't quite understand at first but it works well enough as a standalone.
December 5, 2017
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
See the full review at HarlequinJunkie.com
Leave it to MaryJanice Davidson to turn a book about reincarnation and dark family secrets into a laugh-out-loud, zany, yet somehow heartfelt good time. Plus, it was a twofer. Yep, two romances shared the spotlight here. Not too shabby, right?
So, a couple of things. I would suggest reading Deja Who first just to get a better understanding of what Insighters do and how everything went down between Leah and Archer getting together. Although you could probably read this as a standalone with some perseverance. Also, this story did deal with a lot of darker issues like murder, executions, and depression, to name a few. So it might be tough for some readers. Read More
See the full review at HarlequinJunkie.com
Leave it to MaryJanice Davidson to turn a book about reincarnation and dark family secrets into a laugh-out-loud, zany, yet somehow heartfelt good time. Plus, it was a twofer. Yep, two romances shared the spotlight here. Not too shabby, right?
So, a couple of things. I would suggest reading Deja Who first just to get a better understanding of what Insighters do and how everything went down between Leah and Archer getting together. Although you could probably read this as a standalone with some perseverance. Also, this story did deal with a lot of darker issues like murder, executions, and depression, to name a few. So it might be tough for some readers. Read More
Read
January 25, 2018With a narrative voice that falls between the absurdist observations of her Queen Betsey series and the casual revelations of mundane horrors and challenges of various serious mental health challenges offered in her DIDD titles, MaryJanice Davidson's Insighter series mixes genres with interesting impunity.
November 26, 2017
Great concept for a series. I wish that not all the past lives were famous people.
First, you need to read the author’s notes in the beginning of the book to give you a head’s up on some of the past lives being presented or you won’t have any idea whose past life is being discussed. Second, just to save you any confusion, even though the cover model matches book 1 and there is no indication on the book description, this story is mostly being told by Archer’s cousin, Angela, and her love interest, the cop who has taken over on the closed case of her father’s death. While we do hear from Archer and Leah, they are not the main focus of the story and I found that confusing at first when we didn’t stay with Leah.
While I like the concept of this series, I was expecting this to stay in the POV of Leah so it took me (probably longer than it should) to realize the series was not going to continue with Leah and her ability as an Insighter. There were two things about this story that I found very distracting. The first being the footnotes that the author has all over the place. In the paperback, they are on the bottom and in the digital copy, if you touch it, it either pops you to another page or brings up a little box (it depended on whether I was on my Kindle Paperwhite or on my Nook Kindle App). Some of them are important or further explanations and some are just the author making funny comments and those were more distracting and unneccesarily draws you from the story.
The second is you will read several past life experiences and it is not until further into the book that you will understand whose past life you are experiencing and you will finally realize that they are not all for the same person. There is a mystery to be solved in this story and there I look forward to getting further into the story before I have that epiphany moment. The story itself shouldn’t require me to be halfway through before I understand all the little side vignettes.
Leah and Archer go to visit Archer’s cousins because Leah is a world renowned Insighter and they are hoping she would be able to see what happened the night that Archer’s father supposedly killed his brother. While Archer’s father confessed years ago, everthing about the case and his actions since being sent to prison seem very off to cousin Angela who keeps investigating. Unfortunately, there is no epiphany and we Angela, working with the new detective who inheritted that case, continue to try and unravel what happened that night.
There is a more interesting side story going on with Leah and Archer. Leah is pregnant and she knows it is a little girl. She knows this because she is dreaming the girl’s past lives. Past lives Leah knows very well because they are her mother’s. Leah and her mother have never gotten along, not in any of their past lives together. This time around, her mother made her become a child star and then was very angry and jealous because Leah became more famous. When Leah’s mother was killed in Book 1, Leah thought she might finally have a calm and quiet remainder of this lifetime, except now she is pregnant with her mother.
Now THAT is an interesting concept and that I want to know more about.
Leah was nervous enough since this will be the first lifetime where she has a child. But the question to be answer will be whether the fact that Leah is the mother this time around will have any effect on Leah’s mother’s unquenchable thirst for attention?
My thoughts on this story is that the author put more focus on the uncle/father murder and while it had its interesting points, it certainly isn’t more interesting that Leah, Archer and her mother-baby. We will have to see where she goes with the next book.
First, you need to read the author’s notes in the beginning of the book to give you a head’s up on some of the past lives being presented or you won’t have any idea whose past life is being discussed. Second, just to save you any confusion, even though the cover model matches book 1 and there is no indication on the book description, this story is mostly being told by Archer’s cousin, Angela, and her love interest, the cop who has taken over on the closed case of her father’s death. While we do hear from Archer and Leah, they are not the main focus of the story and I found that confusing at first when we didn’t stay with Leah.
While I like the concept of this series, I was expecting this to stay in the POV of Leah so it took me (probably longer than it should) to realize the series was not going to continue with Leah and her ability as an Insighter. There were two things about this story that I found very distracting. The first being the footnotes that the author has all over the place. In the paperback, they are on the bottom and in the digital copy, if you touch it, it either pops you to another page or brings up a little box (it depended on whether I was on my Kindle Paperwhite or on my Nook Kindle App). Some of them are important or further explanations and some are just the author making funny comments and those were more distracting and unneccesarily draws you from the story.
The second is you will read several past life experiences and it is not until further into the book that you will understand whose past life you are experiencing and you will finally realize that they are not all for the same person. There is a mystery to be solved in this story and there I look forward to getting further into the story before I have that epiphany moment. The story itself shouldn’t require me to be halfway through before I understand all the little side vignettes.
Leah and Archer go to visit Archer’s cousins because Leah is a world renowned Insighter and they are hoping she would be able to see what happened the night that Archer’s father supposedly killed his brother. While Archer’s father confessed years ago, everthing about the case and his actions since being sent to prison seem very off to cousin Angela who keeps investigating. Unfortunately, there is no epiphany and we Angela, working with the new detective who inheritted that case, continue to try and unravel what happened that night.
There is a more interesting side story going on with Leah and Archer. Leah is pregnant and she knows it is a little girl. She knows this because she is dreaming the girl’s past lives. Past lives Leah knows very well because they are her mother’s. Leah and her mother have never gotten along, not in any of their past lives together. This time around, her mother made her become a child star and then was very angry and jealous because Leah became more famous. When Leah’s mother was killed in Book 1, Leah thought she might finally have a calm and quiet remainder of this lifetime, except now she is pregnant with her mother.
Now THAT is an interesting concept and that I want to know more about.
Leah was nervous enough since this will be the first lifetime where she has a child. But the question to be answer will be whether the fact that Leah is the mother this time around will have any effect on Leah’s mother’s unquenchable thirst for attention?
My thoughts on this story is that the author put more focus on the uncle/father murder and while it had its interesting points, it certainly isn’t more interesting that Leah, Archer and her mother-baby. We will have to see where she goes with the next book.
June 27, 2018
Insightful Series, DEJA NEW by Mary Janice Davidson
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
An unusual family gets together to find out who killed their father. Lots of surprises in this strange new world.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance readers copy of this book. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own except as noted.
I was interested in this book because I enjoyed the begging of the Queen Betsy series by the same author but felt the last few books really lost their cohesion. But, MJD’s casual flair was appealing as long as the story didn’t go off the rails.
I think the confusion I felt at the beginning of this is partly because the second in the series. But not entirely as what initially put me off — the start of the first chapter — had little to do with the previous book (which I did not read/listen to) as stated in the above synopsis. There were so many characters; and it felt as if they were speaking in riddles. And, the characters were unruly, cacophonous and speaking of world building perhaps explained in the first book. That can be confusing in print, but in audio,…Gah!
Then, as the story unfolded, I became more interested and understood a little more. The story is essentially a familial murder mystery, not necessarily a cozy one, involving paranormal elements and romance. But it is also a family saga, and about duty, responsibility and forgiveness. And, then there is a point when forgiveness is incredibly hard.
In this world, some people can read others’ past lives through touch. This is expanded on through the use of a medication and regression.
Another confusing aspect of the book, exacerbated by the format, is the insertion of past lives and deaths, sometimes historical, in the story. Some are a little more gory, although Davidson does a reasonable job keeping it less terrifying.
I thought the mystery’s resolution was a little obvious, but there were several twists that occurred that kept it interesting. I thought the story didn’t really focus on the character identified as the main character, Leah, except as a catalyst. Instead she plays second fiddle to Naya, Archer’s cousin. This could be an interesting way to do a series, that is, having the main character, Leah, help the other characters whose story each new book reveals.
Naya, this book’s main character is delightfully quirky and super responsible.
Leah and Archer have some surprises, some pleasant, some strange.
I think the book would have worked better for me in print because of the number of characters, along with the historical tidbits, and the new world were still confusing, to some degree, even at the end of the book.
The narrator was new to me and had a husky but effervescent voice. I thought some of the characters sounded the same; adding to the confusion.
I think I am interested in this new world and this new world and very strange family. Will it stay confusing, will the Leah or will the new characters be the focus? What will happen between Leah and Archer? I will come back, but I think I will read it instead of listening.
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
An unusual family gets together to find out who killed their father. Lots of surprises in this strange new world.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance readers copy of this book. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own except as noted.
I was interested in this book because I enjoyed the begging of the Queen Betsy series by the same author but felt the last few books really lost their cohesion. But, MJD’s casual flair was appealing as long as the story didn’t go off the rails.
I think the confusion I felt at the beginning of this is partly because the second in the series. But not entirely as what initially put me off — the start of the first chapter — had little to do with the previous book (which I did not read/listen to) as stated in the above synopsis. There were so many characters; and it felt as if they were speaking in riddles. And, the characters were unruly, cacophonous and speaking of world building perhaps explained in the first book. That can be confusing in print, but in audio,…Gah!
Then, as the story unfolded, I became more interested and understood a little more. The story is essentially a familial murder mystery, not necessarily a cozy one, involving paranormal elements and romance. But it is also a family saga, and about duty, responsibility and forgiveness. And, then there is a point when forgiveness is incredibly hard.
In this world, some people can read others’ past lives through touch. This is expanded on through the use of a medication and regression.
Another confusing aspect of the book, exacerbated by the format, is the insertion of past lives and deaths, sometimes historical, in the story. Some are a little more gory, although Davidson does a reasonable job keeping it less terrifying.
I thought the mystery’s resolution was a little obvious, but there were several twists that occurred that kept it interesting. I thought the story didn’t really focus on the character identified as the main character, Leah, except as a catalyst. Instead she plays second fiddle to Naya, Archer’s cousin. This could be an interesting way to do a series, that is, having the main character, Leah, help the other characters whose story each new book reveals.
Naya, this book’s main character is delightfully quirky and super responsible.
Leah and Archer have some surprises, some pleasant, some strange.
I think the book would have worked better for me in print because of the number of characters, along with the historical tidbits, and the new world were still confusing, to some degree, even at the end of the book.
The narrator was new to me and had a husky but effervescent voice. I thought some of the characters sounded the same; adding to the confusion.
I think I am interested in this new world and this new world and very strange family. Will it stay confusing, will the Leah or will the new characters be the focus? What will happen between Leah and Archer? I will come back, but I think I will read it instead of listening.
December 1, 2017
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review. This book continues the story of Leah Nazir and Archer Drake, whose relationship began in the last book in the series, Deja Who. It’s hard to pin down exactly but it sounds like this book picks up a few months to a year after the last book left off. Leah and Archer are visiting Archer’s family, hoping that Leah’s Insighter ability will be what makes the difference in solving a years old mystery: why Archer’s father (Dennis) killed his brother (Donald – Archer’s uncle). Angela Drake is Archer’s cousin and is thrilled that he’s bringing Leah home to meet the family. An Insighter herself (but with far less strength to her abilities than Leah’s) Angela is having a bit of celebrity shock over meeting one of her heroes. It’s this and the new detective on the case, Jason Chambers, that Angela hopes will finally help settle the family’s questions once and for all. But Dennis does not want to cooperate. He’s serving what he feels is a just sentence and has no interest in being freed. The family is quite convinced that he didn’t kill his brother though, so why is he so determined to stay in jail? And why is Angela’s mom been a ghost ever since that fateful day so many years ago?
Overall I liked this book a good amount. Similar to the last book in the series this book has a really creative plot, and this book has a great twist ending! Also similar to the last book, the conversations can get a bit confusing since they’re so fast paced and there’s usually multiple people involved. But that’s part of the charm of the book, I think, is that there is so much going on in it. And the characters are all really funny too, and the situations they all get into are pretty comical as well. I liked that we got to hear more about Leah and Archer, while also seeing a relationship develop between Angela and Jason in this book. I thought this was a great continuation of the story line and I love meeting the different members of the Drake family. I would be interested to see what happens with Leah and Archer’s situation in the future or to hear more about one of the brothers/cousins, I hope for the possibility of more books in the series! I’d recommend giving this one too try, it’s fun and light and I think very interesting.
Overall I liked this book a good amount. Similar to the last book in the series this book has a really creative plot, and this book has a great twist ending! Also similar to the last book, the conversations can get a bit confusing since they’re so fast paced and there’s usually multiple people involved. But that’s part of the charm of the book, I think, is that there is so much going on in it. And the characters are all really funny too, and the situations they all get into are pretty comical as well. I liked that we got to hear more about Leah and Archer, while also seeing a relationship develop between Angela and Jason in this book. I thought this was a great continuation of the story line and I love meeting the different members of the Drake family. I would be interested to see what happens with Leah and Archer’s situation in the future or to hear more about one of the brothers/cousins, I hope for the possibility of more books in the series! I’d recommend giving this one too try, it’s fun and light and I think very interesting.
November 6, 2017
I read MaryJanice Davidson books for three things: interesting plot, fun characters and the comedy. I am pleased to say she has never let me down. Deja New delivered on it all, big time. I will try really hard not to spoil it!
So I got my first MJ taste in an anthology long ago. I remember wondering why I hadn't found her sooner! Each new series just shows what a great talent she is. And because I am mercenery I am hoping for many more years of great books.
Leah and Archer together are everything you would want in a couple: sweet, loving and trying hard to make it work. Leah is still trying to adjust to her mom's death. Archer is just hoping Leah doesn't take to the hills. His family is hoping Leah will hang around too, seems they are fans. Still meeting his family and figuring out who committed a murder in the past is a great deal of fun. I mean, what could be better than inlaws and murder you didn't commit?
But it will take time and work to figure it all out and there are some wonderful plot twists that will keep you guessing. A fast read, it didn't make it through a weekend with me before I got to the end.
And in the interest of all fairness. I got an arc. It doesn't get special treatment from me for having it. But it does mean I get to review it sooner. I cannot wait for others to read it so we can talk!
So I got my first MJ taste in an anthology long ago. I remember wondering why I hadn't found her sooner! Each new series just shows what a great talent she is. And because I am mercenery I am hoping for many more years of great books.
Leah and Archer together are everything you would want in a couple: sweet, loving and trying hard to make it work. Leah is still trying to adjust to her mom's death. Archer is just hoping Leah doesn't take to the hills. His family is hoping Leah will hang around too, seems they are fans. Still meeting his family and figuring out who committed a murder in the past is a great deal of fun. I mean, what could be better than inlaws and murder you didn't commit?
But it will take time and work to figure it all out and there are some wonderful plot twists that will keep you guessing. A fast read, it didn't make it through a weekend with me before I got to the end.
And in the interest of all fairness. I got an arc. It doesn't get special treatment from me for having it. But it does mean I get to review it sooner. I cannot wait for others to read it so we can talk!
June 22, 2018
Unpopular opinion coming. Mary Janice Davidson's writing style has become annoying as crap. I first read her in The Royal Treatment and the Queen Betsy books. It was kind of cute, refreshing and different. Now though, having expanding my reading choice and field her rambling, side points and footnotes are just freaking irritating. I basically read the first 3 or 4 chapters and then skipped to the last 2 - didn't miss anything important AT ALL. Don't get me started on the blatant fluffing of the book to actually try to make it book length and not the novella it should have been by alternating chapters about murderers and murders was just painful. This feeling has been growing over the last 5 or so books of hers I have read. I reluctantly finished the Betsy books to see how they played out. I'm done. I'm sure she doesn't care. I'm sure her rabid fans say don't let the door hit you on the way out. So be it. Hey world - there are MUCH better writer out there. Writers that can be humorous and witty but still write a coherent, intelligent, fantastic book. So what was this book about? Who cares.
February 20, 2018
First off, the description of the book is misleading. It’s not quite how it’s described. It was mostly focused on Angela while Archer and Leah don't really play much of a part in this book. I disliked the second book more than the first book. I struggled to finish it and I found myself consistently skimming through the book. The Drake family and all their different personalities was somewhat interesting, but they were just too silly for me. One didn’t realize Archer was his cousin and one thought his cousin Archer was his brother. I’m not sure if the author was trying to make them funny, but they came across as being unintelligent. That thing that’s going on with Leah was a bit of an eye roll.
January 10, 2018
This was a fun book full of interesting, quirky characters.
Angela is a woman who lives with her brothers, cousins, and her mother. She has been trying to solve the mystery of her father's death for years. Her uncle is in prison and is no help.
So, she brings in another cousin of hers, Archer and his fiancee, Leah. Leah, Angela, and several other members of Angela's family are able to see past lives in people.
Throw in Detective Jason Chambers and a little romance and that balances out the crowd.
It is chaotic at times but wonderful and funny at the same time.
Angela is a woman who lives with her brothers, cousins, and her mother. She has been trying to solve the mystery of her father's death for years. Her uncle is in prison and is no help.
So, she brings in another cousin of hers, Archer and his fiancee, Leah. Leah, Angela, and several other members of Angela's family are able to see past lives in people.
Throw in Detective Jason Chambers and a little romance and that balances out the crowd.
It is chaotic at times but wonderful and funny at the same time.
April 23, 2018
In Deja New, MaryJanice Davidson returns to her Insighter universe with new characters. Leah Nazer and Archer Drake are visiting his family. And his family has lost of issues. The most issues stem from the incarceration of father/uncle Dennis for the murder of his brother Donald. Angela Drake thinks there is something off about the case. So does the new detective - Jason Chambers - who has Angela swooning over his art socks. And then there is the rest of the Drake clan with plenty of quirks that all add up to a fun book.
November 7, 2017
I didn’t know that this was part of a series and if I had read the first one I might have understood it better but even with that I did enjoy the book. I haven’t read anything quite like it but I plan to read more from this author.
The darkish elements of this book are what pushed me forward. The whole unsighted aspect kept me glued to my kindle until I finished. The author really did pack a lot of punch in this novel. 4 Stars #2OCCJD
The darkish elements of this book are what pushed me forward. The whole unsighted aspect kept me glued to my kindle until I finished. The author really did pack a lot of punch in this novel. 4 Stars #2OCCJD
October 21, 2017
I was grateful to have won the book on goodreads. It was a little hard to follow the story in the beginning. I kept telling myself it will get better, but it really didn't capture my attention the way I thought it would. I gave it 3 stars because it had a good story just hard to follow. Perhaps someone else may have better luck than me.
June 14, 2018
I received Deja New in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
Deja New had a good story to it, but it wasn't one of my favorite books. I found it hard to keep track of all of the different characters and their jokes were a little childish at times. Overall, the story was good and the hint of mystery was there, but I just couldn't really get into the whole storyline.
Deja New had a good story to it, but it wasn't one of my favorite books. I found it hard to keep track of all of the different characters and their jokes were a little childish at times. Overall, the story was good and the hint of mystery was there, but I just couldn't really get into the whole storyline.
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