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That Old Black Magic #1
That Voodoo You Do
Something dead this way comes…That Old Black Magic, Book 1For ten long years Griffin Trudeau has managed to keep his paws off Jemma Finnegan, best friend and leading star of his kinkiest fantasies. As her appointed cat familiar, indulging those fantasies with the delectable witch is strictly forbidden. But when Jemma shows up at his door with seduction in mind, control goes right out the window.Too late he realizes making love to Jemma is the trigger that launches a zombie apocalypse.Jemma’s been dealt a double she’s just discovered she’s a witch. And Griff has been hiding whiskers and a tail. Oh, and if her life wasn’t crazy enough, a dead voodoo queen needs her blood to raise a legion of zombies.There’s one plan that might work to increase Jemma’s powers so she can put an end to the looming holocaust. A sexy threesome with Griff and Logan Scott, a werewolf familiar with a history of rubbing Griff’s fur the wrong way. A cat and a wolf playing nice, much less sharing? It’ll take a A witch, tiger and wolf doing naughty things. A dead voodoo queen doing evil things. And zombies doing zombie things. Get your shovels ready.
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2010
57 people are currently reading
854 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Redford
49 books324 followersAt the ripe age of seven, I penned my first epic, complete with stick figure illustrations. Sadly, my drawing skills haven't improved much, but my love of creating fantasy worlds is still going strong.
Yep, I still love writing about fairies, ghosts, and other supernatural creatures, only my stories pack a little more heat these days.
I currently reside in Michigan with my husband and overgrown lapdog. I'm a member of Romance Writers of America and Greater Detroit Romance Writers of America.
When I'm not writing or working the day job, I'm usually tinkering in the garden (weather permitting) or drooling over those smokin' hot Winchester Brothers from Supernatural. Strictly for research purposes, of course.
Yep, I still love writing about fairies, ghosts, and other supernatural creatures, only my stories pack a little more heat these days.
I currently reside in Michigan with my husband and overgrown lapdog. I'm a member of Romance Writers of America and Greater Detroit Romance Writers of America.
When I'm not writing or working the day job, I'm usually tinkering in the garden (weather permitting) or drooling over those smokin' hot Winchester Brothers from Supernatural. Strictly for research purposes, of course.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 23, 2012
Original review (live 3/26): http://onabookbender.com/2012/03/26/r...
You only have to read the synopsis to know that this book is out of my normal reading comfort zone. In fact, I'm pretty sure this was my first book with a threesome. But if I'm going to do a threesome, Jodi Redford is the right person to do it with. I mean, she writes it. And I read it. What did you think I meant? Now, as Kelly has informed me before, menage =/= love triangle. And this certainly was the case here. And thank goodness, because we all know my opinion about love triangles (a big *thumbs down* in case you need the reminder). I'm not about to jump on the menage bandwagon, but I liked how the relationships between all three characters were handled, and that there was a HEA. This is a romance, after all.
I picked up That Voodoo You Do on a day that I was not supposed to be reading at all. I selected it because it was one of the shorter reads that I had (it's either the equivalent of 143 or 208 pages, depending on which version on Goodreads you believe) and that alone. Well, that and I creep on Jodi on Twitter. And Kelly and Shirley and others love Jodi. So, I figured that it was about time I got around to reading That Voodoo You Do. Based on the synopsis and what I had heard, I was a little apprehensive, but I was pleasantly surprised at what a fun read this was.
Jemma and Griff bring new meaning to sex that rocks the world by accidentally unleashing a zombie apocalypse. Remember when I said I'm not a fan of zombies? I lied, because I like Jodi's zombies (I'd probably also like Kelly's zombies if they ever showed up in her zombieless zombie story, but that's another story for another time). The zombies are all tied into the evil voodoo queen bent on taking over the world. And there are witches. And werewolves (YES, even a #NakedWerewolf). And tigers -- OH MY.
Beyond those elements, That Voodoo You Do boils down to a really sweet romance. This is what I truly enjoyed, it is what kept me reading despite my reservations, and it is what will make me continue with the series (book 2 is already sitting on my wishlist as we speak, or rather, as I type this). There is magic and romance and zombies and witches and sexy times. Does it really get any better than that? If you like fun, quirky paranormal romances, take That Voodoo You Do for a romp. It will leave you feeling flushed and satisfied.
You only have to read the synopsis to know that this book is out of my normal reading comfort zone. In fact, I'm pretty sure this was my first book with a threesome. But if I'm going to do a threesome, Jodi Redford is the right person to do it with. I mean, she writes it. And I read it. What did you think I meant? Now, as Kelly has informed me before, menage =/= love triangle. And this certainly was the case here. And thank goodness, because we all know my opinion about love triangles (a big *thumbs down* in case you need the reminder). I'm not about to jump on the menage bandwagon, but I liked how the relationships between all three characters were handled, and that there was a HEA. This is a romance, after all.
I picked up That Voodoo You Do on a day that I was not supposed to be reading at all. I selected it because it was one of the shorter reads that I had (it's either the equivalent of 143 or 208 pages, depending on which version on Goodreads you believe) and that alone. Well, that and I creep on Jodi on Twitter. And Kelly and Shirley and others love Jodi. So, I figured that it was about time I got around to reading That Voodoo You Do. Based on the synopsis and what I had heard, I was a little apprehensive, but I was pleasantly surprised at what a fun read this was.
Jemma and Griff bring new meaning to sex that rocks the world by accidentally unleashing a zombie apocalypse. Remember when I said I'm not a fan of zombies? I lied, because I like Jodi's zombies (I'd probably also like Kelly's zombies if they ever showed up in her zombieless zombie story, but that's another story for another time). The zombies are all tied into the evil voodoo queen bent on taking over the world. And there are witches. And werewolves (YES, even a #NakedWerewolf). And tigers -- OH MY.
Beyond those elements, That Voodoo You Do boils down to a really sweet romance. This is what I truly enjoyed, it is what kept me reading despite my reservations, and it is what will make me continue with the series (book 2 is already sitting on my wishlist as we speak, or rather, as I type this). There is magic and romance and zombies and witches and sexy times. Does it really get any better than that? If you like fun, quirky paranormal romances, take That Voodoo You Do for a romp. It will leave you feeling flushed and satisfied.
February 5, 2017
3 stars, I can overlook multitude of shortcomings if the story is humorous enough. That is exactly what I choose to do while reading this book. If you're not able or willing to do that, i'd pass on this book. At times the holes in the story are as deep & cavernous as the Grand Canyon. I'll not be continuing this series bc overlooking the lack of character depth, back story, lackluster sex scenes, & world building in favor of some light comic relief for an entire series is an endeavor I'll surely fail at.
September 12, 2017
First in the That Old Black Magic somewhat erotic paranormal romance series.
My Take
This was too funny and a nice switch from the usual shifters and witches storyline. Redford managed to bring some suspense into it; I do wish she'd brought in more show. Still I did enjoy this quite a bit.
My Take
This was too funny and a nice switch from the usual shifters and witches storyline. Redford managed to bring some suspense into it; I do wish she'd brought in more show. Still I did enjoy this quite a bit.
October 26, 2016
Again -- extensive smut involved. But the cast of characters is fun & the world set-up is intriguing. It's a generally familiar urban fantasy theme -- but full of quirky characters -- and who doesn't love Tiger shifters (although technically he's a familiar).
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June 25, 2011
It started off funny and light-hearted -- Jemma decides to seduce her friend Griff, who she's known since college. Unfortunately, after wild success in that department, she wakes up to find her dead uncle Harold trying to kill her. She's understandably horrified. After Griff dispatches her uncle-turned-zombie, he hits her with (part of) the shocking truth about her birth parents. Meanwhile, he neglects to tell her the truth about his own heritage and his real reason for being in her life:
Then, Logan enters the picture and Jemma is told that, to save the world she's going to have to have a threesome. After a brief WTF? moment (it had been long enough between buying and reading this story that I forgot about that part of the description) I started getting annoyed -- the Logan element really does interfere with Jemma and Griff figuring out their own changing relationship and I would have liked to have learned more about Griff's backstory.
But still, the humor won me over. So much of the rest of the story is OTT, why shouldn't this be too?
I also liked how, at the end of the story when Jemma had to fight against the witches' council for [character name] to be released from banishment, she didn't give some grand speech or engage in battle and immediately get her way. I feel like that's been done a million times in PNR/UF and it never feels satisfying to me; it always feels like lazy writing. Instead, she went to the council, made her plea, then had to regroup and try again. She persevered against the face of bureaucracy, which I found to be a pleasant surprise.
I'm very much looking forward to reading the next in the series.
Fear held his tongue hostage. In the back of his mind he'd always known the day would come when he'd have to explain to Jemma about who he was. What he was. But once she discovered the truth, their lives would be forever changed. A selfish part of him wanted to prolong the illusion of normalcy they'd built together. It was the only thing he had. The only thing that'd given him something to live for.
Then, Logan enters the picture and Jemma is told that, to save the world she's going to have to have a threesome. After a brief WTF? moment (it had been long enough between buying and reading this story that I forgot about that part of the description) I started getting annoyed -- the Logan element really does interfere with Jemma and Griff figuring out their own changing relationship and I would have liked to have learned more about Griff's backstory.
But still, the humor won me over. So much of the rest of the story is OTT, why shouldn't this be too?
She stared at the muscles shifting between all that golden, velvety skin, her suspicions bubbling. It was too damn weird and convenient that both Logan and Griff were standing around half naked all of a sudden. Unless some devious shirt monster was making its rounds in the neighborhood, there was definitely something afoot.
I also liked how, at the end of the story when Jemma had to fight against the witches' council for [character name] to be released from banishment, she didn't give some grand speech or engage in battle and immediately get her way. I feel like that's been done a million times in PNR/UF and it never feels satisfying to me; it always feels like lazy writing. Instead, she went to the council, made her plea, then had to regroup and try again. She persevered against the face of bureaucracy, which I found to be a pleasant surprise.
I'm very much looking forward to reading the next in the series.
January 7, 2014
Zombies! I haven't read enough zombie book recently so this totally hit the spot. Because, you know, zombies are fun. In a completely gross and decomposing way. What can I say? I like the creep factor involved with the idea of the dead rising. It gives me delicious shivers. You know what else floats my boat? Witches and shapeshifters. Especially when the shifters are all growly and territorial. Yum.
Jodi Redford is a new to me author and I am so glad that she's on my radar now. This book was amazingly fun. Did you see that part about zombies? And witches? And territorial shifters? Well, there's also a cocky, arrogant werewolf. And a hot threesome! *swoon*
I loved the overall tone of the book. It was snarky and light-hearted and yet it also managed to be sweet. Griff was adorable. Jemma was determined to find a way to be with him. Logan was hot and ... hot. I'm going to be honest, I'm really excited about his story because he was yummy.
Fast paced with sex scenes hot enough to require a cold shower afterward, this book absolutely hit the spot.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
01/07/14 reread - I had forgotten how much I liked Griff and Logan snarking at each other. *thumbs up*
Jodi Redford is a new to me author and I am so glad that she's on my radar now. This book was amazingly fun. Did you see that part about zombies? And witches? And territorial shifters? Well, there's also a cocky, arrogant werewolf. And a hot threesome! *swoon*
I loved the overall tone of the book. It was snarky and light-hearted and yet it also managed to be sweet. Griff was adorable. Jemma was determined to find a way to be with him. Logan was hot and ... hot. I'm going to be honest, I'm really excited about his story because he was yummy.
Fast paced with sex scenes hot enough to require a cold shower afterward, this book absolutely hit the spot.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
01/07/14 reread - I had forgotten how much I liked Griff and Logan snarking at each other. *thumbs up*
February 21, 2012
I was surprised by this book. It was undoubtedly a very fast read, but worth the few dollars it cost me on my Nook. That Voodoo You Do is a fun romp in the occult that will leave you wanting more. In all the books I have read about Voodoo and the Craft the authors wrote either dark fantasy or whimsically light; Redford writes in a combination of both.
In the story Jemma Sue Finnegan decides it's time to seduce her reluctant best friend into having sex. Little does she know what she's unleashing and it's more than a fun roll in bed. Griffin Trudeau is more than Jemma's best friend, he's also her were-tiger guardian familiar. And he's been forbidden to bed Jemma, though he's been in love with her for ten years. There coming together (no pun intended) leads to the release of major mojo- mojo that leads an evil dead spirit right to Griffin's front door.
It turns out Jemma is a descendant of a highly powerful witch and her arch-nemesis, a Voodoo Queen, has come back from the dead to rule the living. It's up to Jemma and her lover, Griff, to put a stop to it before Hell on Earth is released.
In the story Jemma Sue Finnegan decides it's time to seduce her reluctant best friend into having sex. Little does she know what she's unleashing and it's more than a fun roll in bed. Griffin Trudeau is more than Jemma's best friend, he's also her were-tiger guardian familiar. And he's been forbidden to bed Jemma, though he's been in love with her for ten years. There coming together (no pun intended) leads to the release of major mojo- mojo that leads an evil dead spirit right to Griffin's front door.
It turns out Jemma is a descendant of a highly powerful witch and her arch-nemesis, a Voodoo Queen, has come back from the dead to rule the living. It's up to Jemma and her lover, Griff, to put a stop to it before Hell on Earth is released.
October 24, 2011
Loved this book. This is a new author that I have fallen in love with and can't wait to read the next book of this series. Also will be one that I recommend to others.
This is a story about a girl named Jemma who is adopted and living with her adoptived parents. She has been friends with a guy named Griff. She decides she is going to try and seduce him. It works and all kinds of craziness happens. Like crazy zombies, meeting new people, finding out that you are something different then you are, and also finding out that the person you care for is not what you think. Very sexy, steamy scenes with Jemma and Griff, and a few others very sexy scenes that I loved. Loved the secondary characters especially Logan. I like him, can't wait for more of him. Great story about learning to trust and love and learn about you full power.
Love this story and will definately let others know to check this out.
This is a story about a girl named Jemma who is adopted and living with her adoptived parents. She has been friends with a guy named Griff. She decides she is going to try and seduce him. It works and all kinds of craziness happens. Like crazy zombies, meeting new people, finding out that you are something different then you are, and also finding out that the person you care for is not what you think. Very sexy, steamy scenes with Jemma and Griff, and a few others very sexy scenes that I loved. Loved the secondary characters especially Logan. I like him, can't wait for more of him. Great story about learning to trust and love and learn about you full power.
Love this story and will definately let others know to check this out.
July 1, 2019
"4.5 out of 5 stars!! This is an addicting story about a woman who comes into her destiny in a way she would never have expected. Jemma and Griff make ..."
Read more of this review and a TEASER here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2011/10/feasted-on-that-old-black-magic-series.html
Read more of this review and a TEASER here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2011/10/feasted-on-that-old-black-magic-series.html
July 15, 2019
When a book begins with a bang I tend to roll my eyes in much the same way you did (or will) reading this review. I prefer plot over porn, my bad. YMMV. Had it continued I would have rated it one star but it redeemed itself at about 75% with a satisfying action-packed climax of a nonsexual nature. As with most books, the good guys and gals win and live HEA, no spoiler there. I will most likely read the second book since I purchased it at the same time as the first.
June 19, 2017
4 words: Waaaayyyy too much sex!!!!! Otherwise, it was a fun read.
September 20, 2017
Great
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The characters were very interesting and fun to read. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The characters were very interesting and fun to read. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 6, 2019
Rated 3.5
Read
August 8, 2019Loved it!
September 13, 2020
Loved it!
I don't normally go for books to do with witches but glad I did for this one. This book has me hooked, laughing out loud as well shedding a few tears!
I don't normally go for books to do with witches but glad I did for this one. This book has me hooked, laughing out loud as well shedding a few tears!
January 4, 2012
I also obtained this book for review for my very own personal thoughts. Now that I have stated the obvious... let's get to the book review!
I will start off by saying that Ms. Redford is a new to me author. Like... very new! But I am very excited to say that she has made me a new fan!! I am honored that Ms. Jodi asked to review the first book in the series... ((be on the look out for the rest of this series to be reviewed here as well... especially book four... **Getting Familiar With Your Demon** this one will be out very soon!)) Ms. Jodi's writing abilities captured me, allured me, enticed me, and enthralled me. Her writing is every bit passionate, romantic, desirable, and just plain sexy ~ just how I like my stories. She also gave me a story with a sense of humor that left me giggling... She added language that I have used a time or two.. or maybe three times a day, lol. She gave me a real story; the setting of the story is something that I just simply feel in love with. She indulged me in all of my fantasies... And even gave me a little more that I did not ask for. **evil wink**
Have I tempted you yet... Then let me tell you about the story! =)
Jemma is just your average woman... Okay, well she was just your average woman until one day, a key within herself unlocked a door that would change the course of her life ~ forever. Jemma lived every day like the same before, the only difference was today she was going to seduce her best friend whether he liked it or not. She was tired of pussy-footing around the desire that lurked around every glance, every barely there touch... She was tired of the wet dreams that kept her up at night. She was going to take a stand and do something about it! I loved Jemma! She is one firecracker! She has a tongue on her that doesn't stop and it makes for a great case of the giggles! Just wait till you get to know her!
Griffin is Jemma's best friend. He has been by her side through it all but most of all he has wanted to be... Well... Let's just say that he wants her okay. Actually that might be an understatement, lol, but I think you get my drift. He is the man though... Oh gawd he is ever the man. He would doing anything for her... Even walk through fire! Hell, he is even willing to face the fury of one pissed off witch ~ just for Jemma. Griffin is a man after my own heart... There is nothing in this world that would make him smile than to tell Jemma that he loves her... But if he so much as whisper those magical words... The world of which he knows would be lost.. forever. He completely melted my heart! He is possessive, demanding, passionate and most of all Sex-On-A-Stick!!!
This story is powerful! It sets the stage for the stories to come! It is full of emotion, drama, action, suspense and some freaking hot loving!! Oh you know what... I forgot to tell you that the day Jemma decided to seduce her best friend, she also discovered that she is a witch that would change the fate of all man/womankind. Oh and besides having zombies wanting to eating her brains out **hahaha, making you want to read it right!**... She discovers the lighter side of things... Her best friend is a cat... **I will let you read that part.... I get the chills just thinking of Griff all furred out, oh my** And there are a few other things she discovers... This story really made me giggle, smile, pant and happy! Ms. Jodi, I am really impressed with how you drew me in the story and did not let me go... Even after the last page was read... I wanted more!
Ms. Jodi... I am coming after you for more!! I hope I have interested you enough to tempt you into the dark side! You might enjoy it! And just remember, I know what you read and remember where I am from *Louisiana* I might have to do that Voodoo That I Do! =)
I will start off by saying that Ms. Redford is a new to me author. Like... very new! But I am very excited to say that she has made me a new fan!! I am honored that Ms. Jodi asked to review the first book in the series... ((be on the look out for the rest of this series to be reviewed here as well... especially book four... **Getting Familiar With Your Demon** this one will be out very soon!)) Ms. Jodi's writing abilities captured me, allured me, enticed me, and enthralled me. Her writing is every bit passionate, romantic, desirable, and just plain sexy ~ just how I like my stories. She also gave me a story with a sense of humor that left me giggling... She added language that I have used a time or two.. or maybe three times a day, lol. She gave me a real story; the setting of the story is something that I just simply feel in love with. She indulged me in all of my fantasies... And even gave me a little more that I did not ask for. **evil wink**
Have I tempted you yet... Then let me tell you about the story! =)
Jemma is just your average woman... Okay, well she was just your average woman until one day, a key within herself unlocked a door that would change the course of her life ~ forever. Jemma lived every day like the same before, the only difference was today she was going to seduce her best friend whether he liked it or not. She was tired of pussy-footing around the desire that lurked around every glance, every barely there touch... She was tired of the wet dreams that kept her up at night. She was going to take a stand and do something about it! I loved Jemma! She is one firecracker! She has a tongue on her that doesn't stop and it makes for a great case of the giggles! Just wait till you get to know her!
Griffin is Jemma's best friend. He has been by her side through it all but most of all he has wanted to be... Well... Let's just say that he wants her okay. Actually that might be an understatement, lol, but I think you get my drift. He is the man though... Oh gawd he is ever the man. He would doing anything for her... Even walk through fire! Hell, he is even willing to face the fury of one pissed off witch ~ just for Jemma. Griffin is a man after my own heart... There is nothing in this world that would make him smile than to tell Jemma that he loves her... But if he so much as whisper those magical words... The world of which he knows would be lost.. forever. He completely melted my heart! He is possessive, demanding, passionate and most of all Sex-On-A-Stick!!!
This story is powerful! It sets the stage for the stories to come! It is full of emotion, drama, action, suspense and some freaking hot loving!! Oh you know what... I forgot to tell you that the day Jemma decided to seduce her best friend, she also discovered that she is a witch that would change the fate of all man/womankind. Oh and besides having zombies wanting to eating her brains out **hahaha, making you want to read it right!**... She discovers the lighter side of things... Her best friend is a cat... **I will let you read that part.... I get the chills just thinking of Griff all furred out, oh my** And there are a few other things she discovers... This story really made me giggle, smile, pant and happy! Ms. Jodi, I am really impressed with how you drew me in the story and did not let me go... Even after the last page was read... I wanted more!
Ms. Jodi... I am coming after you for more!! I hope I have interested you enough to tempt you into the dark side! You might enjoy it! And just remember, I know what you read and remember where I am from *Louisiana* I might have to do that Voodoo That I Do! =)
August 23, 2014
"Too late he realizes making love to Jemma is the trigger that launches a zombie apocalypse." - Oops! Now there's a buzz kill for sure. Just imagine if they'd known beforehand, talk about performance pressure! On the other hand, if they had known, they could have planned better, been prepared. "That Voodoo You Do" starts off fast and maintains the pace right up until the last few pages of the book.
The story sucked me from the first line and kept me hooked until those last few pages mentioned above. Redford writes hot sex scenes, sharp dialogue, humorous moments, and all at a brisk pace. I really enjoyed the flirting between Jemma and Griff, and between Jemma and Logan. The action with the three of them was hot and I'd have liked to see them make it work as a committed threesome. That doesn't happen but not to worry, Logan's story is in book two.
The overall plot holds up and makes sense. Jemma gets a lot thrown at her in a short time and she tries to keep up and not got overwhelmed. I do think that some of the revelations that she encounters could have been introduced at earlier points, but the time line for the upcoming zombie apocalypse is tight. That tight timeline, however, allows Redford to make Jemma more vulnerable by having to cope with so much all at once and keeping her off balance. Redford has taken the traditional trope of the hero who doesn't know anything about his powers or true parental lineage and given it a modern, urban fantasy spin in Jemma. (The writing team of Ilona Andrews has also done this with their female lead, Kate Daniels. It's a trend I like.)
Both Jemma and Griffin are likable, their romance and passion easy to believe. In addition to the forthcoming zombie apocalypse, there's another consequence to their having sex. Griffin chooses not to tell Jemma about it until there's nothing she can do about it. Personally, I'd have preferred to be told and given the chance to deal with it. Griff sees his actions as protecting her emotionally; I disagree but it's clear that he means well. Clarissa starts out as a hard-assed, tough, unfeeling witch (no really, she's a witch, and the coven leader) but by the end we see that there is more to her than that. Ms Peach, Gloria and Logan feel less well-developed to me and I was never entirely clear on the cause of the animosity between Griff and Logan, or if there even was a cause.
I mentioned that the story worked, and held my interest, until the very end. The ending felt flat and not entirely believable to me. In the book, five to six weeks have passed. In that time, Jemma has not been to work at all; the only mention of her work is near the beginning when she and Griff flee the initial zombie attack. She calls and says she's going out of town on a family emergency. That's the only reference we ever get. I was left wondering if Jemma still had a job, who paid her rent and bills while she was gone, if anyone, did she still have a job, what was she doing for money, etc. Also, after the final battle, Redford employs one of my least favorite tropes and I found myself rolling my eyes, it was so cliched. There is a HEA, this is a romance after all. How we get there didn't really work for me, it felt very anti-climactic.
Despite the ending, I really enjoyed this book. It's a good start to the series and it left me ready for the next book. But that's tomorrow's review. :)
I received this Kindle book from the author for review.
The story sucked me from the first line and kept me hooked until those last few pages mentioned above. Redford writes hot sex scenes, sharp dialogue, humorous moments, and all at a brisk pace. I really enjoyed the flirting between Jemma and Griff, and between Jemma and Logan. The action with the three of them was hot and I'd have liked to see them make it work as a committed threesome. That doesn't happen but not to worry, Logan's story is in book two.
The overall plot holds up and makes sense. Jemma gets a lot thrown at her in a short time and she tries to keep up and not got overwhelmed. I do think that some of the revelations that she encounters could have been introduced at earlier points, but the time line for the upcoming zombie apocalypse is tight. That tight timeline, however, allows Redford to make Jemma more vulnerable by having to cope with so much all at once and keeping her off balance. Redford has taken the traditional trope of the hero who doesn't know anything about his powers or true parental lineage and given it a modern, urban fantasy spin in Jemma. (The writing team of Ilona Andrews has also done this with their female lead, Kate Daniels. It's a trend I like.)
Both Jemma and Griffin are likable, their romance and passion easy to believe. In addition to the forthcoming zombie apocalypse, there's another consequence to their having sex. Griffin chooses not to tell Jemma about it until there's nothing she can do about it. Personally, I'd have preferred to be told and given the chance to deal with it. Griff sees his actions as protecting her emotionally; I disagree but it's clear that he means well. Clarissa starts out as a hard-assed, tough, unfeeling witch (no really, she's a witch, and the coven leader) but by the end we see that there is more to her than that. Ms Peach, Gloria and Logan feel less well-developed to me and I was never entirely clear on the cause of the animosity between Griff and Logan, or if there even was a cause.
I mentioned that the story worked, and held my interest, until the very end. The ending felt flat and not entirely believable to me. In the book, five to six weeks have passed. In that time, Jemma has not been to work at all; the only mention of her work is near the beginning when she and Griff flee the initial zombie attack. She calls and says she's going out of town on a family emergency. That's the only reference we ever get. I was left wondering if Jemma still had a job, who paid her rent and bills while she was gone, if anyone, did she still have a job, what was she doing for money, etc. Also, after the final battle, Redford employs one of my least favorite tropes and I found myself rolling my eyes, it was so cliched. There is a HEA, this is a romance after all. How we get there didn't really work for me, it felt very anti-climactic.
Despite the ending, I really enjoyed this book. It's a good start to the series and it left me ready for the next book. But that's tomorrow's review. :)
I received this Kindle book from the author for review.
September 2, 2011
I read this book on the edge of my seat, clapping my hands or squealing like a fifth grader. Yes, I truly did. Ask my 5-year-old who thinks mommy is just a wee-bit insane. What’s so great? For one thing, I absolutely love Redford’s style. I never felt like I was pulled away from the story, or thrust out of it by the word choices. I didn’t experience any moments of “Yeah, like that would ever happen.” One has to wonder how authors manage that, especially when we’re talking about witches and familiars, zombies and voodoo queens. I’m a pretty big skeptic when it comes to feasibility and not all fantasy novels pull this off. An author really has to work to make us not question the unbelievable.
Mission make the unbelievable, believable in That Voodoo You Do? Epic success. By throwing these magical beings into real life situations (okay, except for, hopefully, a zombie apocalypse), she helps me suspend any disbelief. I was completely invested in these characters; completely invested in their struggles. So, yes…I cried. Don’t judge until you’ve read it yourself. Then you may pepper my website with comments regarding my sappiness.
Part of making it believable is sticking within the characters that she created. Jemma’s reaction to the mention of multiple men tracks with the picture I had formed of her. Each of the characters stays true and that is essential in character building, unless there is a reason or slow progression to change.
Beyond all that, I enjoyed the new take on familiars and the complicated rules involved in this world she’s created. I can see the thought and planning put into creating this…which, again helps make it feel real.
What’s more? I now get to move on to The Seven Year Witch, That Old Black Magic book 2! Holla!
I must offer a warning though, to anyone whose interest has been peeked, to anyone who feels drawn to pick up a copy. Buy a fan…you’ll need it.
Trust me.
My Favorite Lines
Ground control, we have contact.
As for his tongue. Holy hell, it should be considered a weapon of mass destruction.
That old cliché about seeing stars? Not just bullshit. In fact, she was pretty damn certain she spied a glimpse of an entirely new galaxy.
She’d seen enough zombie movies to know that loosely translated, graw meant Hmm, which of your tasty appendages should I snack on first?
“Sorry, whatever’s in my mind tends to flow freely from my mouth unfiltered. It’s like the damn Niagara Falls in there.”
There are SO many more, unfortunately, I don’t want to spoil it for you!
Feel free to check out Samhain Publishing's website for an excerpt of the book!
Mission make the unbelievable, believable in That Voodoo You Do? Epic success. By throwing these magical beings into real life situations (okay, except for, hopefully, a zombie apocalypse), she helps me suspend any disbelief. I was completely invested in these characters; completely invested in their struggles. So, yes…I cried. Don’t judge until you’ve read it yourself. Then you may pepper my website with comments regarding my sappiness.
Part of making it believable is sticking within the characters that she created. Jemma’s reaction to the mention of multiple men tracks with the picture I had formed of her. Each of the characters stays true and that is essential in character building, unless there is a reason or slow progression to change.
Beyond all that, I enjoyed the new take on familiars and the complicated rules involved in this world she’s created. I can see the thought and planning put into creating this…which, again helps make it feel real.
What’s more? I now get to move on to The Seven Year Witch, That Old Black Magic book 2! Holla!
I must offer a warning though, to anyone whose interest has been peeked, to anyone who feels drawn to pick up a copy. Buy a fan…you’ll need it.
Trust me.
My Favorite Lines
Ground control, we have contact.
As for his tongue. Holy hell, it should be considered a weapon of mass destruction.
That old cliché about seeing stars? Not just bullshit. In fact, she was pretty damn certain she spied a glimpse of an entirely new galaxy.
She’d seen enough zombie movies to know that loosely translated, graw meant Hmm, which of your tasty appendages should I snack on first?
“Sorry, whatever’s in my mind tends to flow freely from my mouth unfiltered. It’s like the damn Niagara Falls in there.”
There are SO many more, unfortunately, I don’t want to spoil it for you!
Feel free to check out Samhain Publishing's website for an excerpt of the book!
December 19, 2012
Oh my! I wasn’t expecting this book to be as funny as I found it. From the first page I was laughing. And it’s not just funny – it’s exciting, it’s interesting and it’s earth-shatteringly hot!
The story starts with Jemma Finnegan, a woman with a plan, setting out to seduce her super hunk of a best friend of ten years – Griffin Trudeau. Next comes some delicious and literally earth moving kitchen lovin’, the beginning of a zombie apocalypse and that’s just the first chapter!
From the start I loved the chemistry between Griff and Jemma. The comradeship of having been best friends for ten years was evident and the tangible sexual tension between the two was electric. I was rooting for them as a couple. And if I had any doubts of Jemma as a heroine they were wiped away when she tried to take down a zombie using a ThighBlaster.
The secondary cast of Clarissa (the coven leader) and the other witches (Mrs Peach, Gloria) were delightful. I loved the banter and pop culture references they delivered.
And Logan Scott? [He's] the guy your mama warned you about. The ultimate biker boy complete with the mirrored shades, barbed wire tattoo and snug jeans – I loved him. Normally I don’t like any character that threatens the Happily Ever After that I desire but I loved what Logan brought to the story. The fact that he brought out Griff’s jealous side… that is just a bonus!
After finishing the book, I’m still a little unsure as to why the ménage à trois strengthened Jemma’s magic but it was such an hot and steamy scene that I’ll let it slide. I really enjoyed the creativeness of the sex scenes. And the humour that was present throughout everything.
The witch/zombie/shifter storyline was exciting too – this book, whilst mostly is about the romance and the sex also has more too it – and it kept me guessing. I loved how Jemma grew as a character. She became the kick-ass heroine that her witchy ancestors (well… most of them) would be proud of.
This is probably the funniest erotic romance that I’ve ever read. I am so excited about the next book in the series (which is out and I have already bought!) being about Clarissa and Logan. The little moments of those two were some of my favourite interludes in the story. I recommend this book for anyone who likes light hearted storyline and zombie apocalypses mixed in with their erotica.
The story starts with Jemma Finnegan, a woman with a plan, setting out to seduce her super hunk of a best friend of ten years – Griffin Trudeau. Next comes some delicious and literally earth moving kitchen lovin’, the beginning of a zombie apocalypse and that’s just the first chapter!
From the start I loved the chemistry between Griff and Jemma. The comradeship of having been best friends for ten years was evident and the tangible sexual tension between the two was electric. I was rooting for them as a couple. And if I had any doubts of Jemma as a heroine they were wiped away when she tried to take down a zombie using a ThighBlaster.
The secondary cast of Clarissa (the coven leader) and the other witches (Mrs Peach, Gloria) were delightful. I loved the banter and pop culture references they delivered.
And Logan Scott? [He's] the guy your mama warned you about. The ultimate biker boy complete with the mirrored shades, barbed wire tattoo and snug jeans – I loved him. Normally I don’t like any character that threatens the Happily Ever After that I desire but I loved what Logan brought to the story. The fact that he brought out Griff’s jealous side… that is just a bonus!
After finishing the book, I’m still a little unsure as to why the ménage à trois strengthened Jemma’s magic but it was such an hot and steamy scene that I’ll let it slide. I really enjoyed the creativeness of the sex scenes. And the humour that was present throughout everything.
The witch/zombie/shifter storyline was exciting too – this book, whilst mostly is about the romance and the sex also has more too it – and it kept me guessing. I loved how Jemma grew as a character. She became the kick-ass heroine that her witchy ancestors (well… most of them) would be proud of.
This is probably the funniest erotic romance that I’ve ever read. I am so excited about the next book in the series (which is out and I have already bought!) being about Clarissa and Logan. The little moments of those two were some of my favourite interludes in the story. I recommend this book for anyone who likes light hearted storyline and zombie apocalypses mixed in with their erotica.
January 17, 2011
The best thing about this story is how Ms. Redford is able to make you fall in love with the characters within such a short period of time. From the moment you meet Griffin and Jemma, you know they have the kind of love that stems from years of being friends first. The mutual lust and passion falls nicely into place after that. They each had their own reasons for keeping the other at a distance, but in the end they know they can't fight the inevitable, especially once they realize how the other feels.
Griffin is your classic alpha male with the body of a god. It's easy to see why Jemma fell for him, but what's more is his down to earth personality and how he was content to just exist in any capacity he could in Jemma's world. As long as she was close to him, that was all that mattered and he existed like that for many years keeping his true feelings for her in check. What might have started out as a job for him turned into a life long friendship and then eventually much, much more.
Jemma is completely oblivious to how adorable she is. Her humor is proved time and time again even in the most dire of situations throughout the story. It's completely random and inspired many chuckles on my part while reading. I was also inspired by her strength and determination while discovering her strange and exciting heritage and the challenges that came with it.
The rest of the cast are absolutely charming and with the southern twang and hotness that Logan provides, more than capable of holding their own individual personalities in this story. There's also a healthy dose of hot sex and adventure added to the story that keeps your interest peeked.
The ending felt very satisfying and I believe I've rarely felt that way about a book. Of course I would've loved for it to continue, especially with the suprising, but welcome turn of events that had unfolded. I can't wait for the next in the series to come out and I remain a loyal fan of Jodi Redford!
Griffin is your classic alpha male with the body of a god. It's easy to see why Jemma fell for him, but what's more is his down to earth personality and how he was content to just exist in any capacity he could in Jemma's world. As long as she was close to him, that was all that mattered and he existed like that for many years keeping his true feelings for her in check. What might have started out as a job for him turned into a life long friendship and then eventually much, much more.
Jemma is completely oblivious to how adorable she is. Her humor is proved time and time again even in the most dire of situations throughout the story. It's completely random and inspired many chuckles on my part while reading. I was also inspired by her strength and determination while discovering her strange and exciting heritage and the challenges that came with it.
The rest of the cast are absolutely charming and with the southern twang and hotness that Logan provides, more than capable of holding their own individual personalities in this story. There's also a healthy dose of hot sex and adventure added to the story that keeps your interest peeked.
The ending felt very satisfying and I believe I've rarely felt that way about a book. Of course I would've loved for it to continue, especially with the suprising, but welcome turn of events that had unfolded. I can't wait for the next in the series to come out and I remain a loyal fan of Jodi Redford!
November 3, 2011
I've been looking at this book for a while. I'm not sure what the hesitation was. I love PA romance and I'm not afraid of books that are heavy on romance. It wasn't the zombies either, even though this was my first zombie book. I just hadn't gotten to that particular group of undead yet. Whatever the reason, I can now call myself a Jodi Redford fan and there is no turning back.
The story revolves around Jemma and Griff. For the record, those of you who get totally frustrated when characters are forced by authors to go through chapters of sexual tension before they are allowed to experience the good stuff - Jodi will be your hero. When the opening line of a book is: "Griffin Trudeau didn't know it yet, but he was about to have his bones jumped" you can pretty much guarantee there will be no waiting. As much fun as all those steamy and sometimes even tender scenes were, that wasn't all there was to this story.
I found myself getting lost in Jodi's writing. It flowed from one voice to the other and the characters were fun. Griff and Jemma were a great couple. Logan was a mess (in a fun and sexy way), the other coven witches were adorable in their own quirky way and the bad guys in this one were really evil and nasty. Pretty much something for everyone. There was a lot of action and a lot of background that made you never question what was happening.
I guess if I had to have one complaint it would only be that it ended too soon. Things were tied up almost too nice and neat at the end. I don't want to give anything away, so I'm not going to say much more. That may be my observation just because I had so much fun reading it I wasn't ready for it to end. Never fear though, there are two more books already out in the That Old Black Magic series and I'm sure I will be checking out the others soon.
The story revolves around Jemma and Griff. For the record, those of you who get totally frustrated when characters are forced by authors to go through chapters of sexual tension before they are allowed to experience the good stuff - Jodi will be your hero. When the opening line of a book is: "Griffin Trudeau didn't know it yet, but he was about to have his bones jumped" you can pretty much guarantee there will be no waiting. As much fun as all those steamy and sometimes even tender scenes were, that wasn't all there was to this story.
I found myself getting lost in Jodi's writing. It flowed from one voice to the other and the characters were fun. Griff and Jemma were a great couple. Logan was a mess (in a fun and sexy way), the other coven witches were adorable in their own quirky way and the bad guys in this one were really evil and nasty. Pretty much something for everyone. There was a lot of action and a lot of background that made you never question what was happening.
I guess if I had to have one complaint it would only be that it ended too soon. Things were tied up almost too nice and neat at the end. I don't want to give anything away, so I'm not going to say much more. That may be my observation just because I had so much fun reading it I wasn't ready for it to end. Never fear though, there are two more books already out in the That Old Black Magic series and I'm sure I will be checking out the others soon.
November 27, 2011
A quick read. Erotica lasting for pages (not my taste, but I know others would love it), well written and far from 'bam-bam-thankyamam' sex. Some books that is all you get. But HERE we have story.
At first I thought it was going to be all about witches. I was happy, since Bewitched I have been fascinated by the fantasy and reality of witches. But then it got into the Voodoo and zombies part. Don't know what I was expecting given the title. I put the book down for a day or so. I am not interested in black magick. If it doesn't help a person, the planet, etc. why bother. Do no harm, etc.
But my curiosity of where Jodi Redford was heading with all of this got to me. I picked it back up and enjoyed the ride. The characters were well developed and couldn't help but like them. Well, except for grandma. The story would have been shorter but as interesting without the sex parts, which is something you can't say about most erotica. But this isn't erotica per se. As I mentioned the story holds its own.
As for the zombie stuff... well, it wasn't our heroes that caused these run-amuck dust-bunnies but they had to stop them before they, yeah, as usual, take over the world. Those zombies, all they want are brains and world domination!
I don't think I'll have nightmares from the book as there was enough levity to pull out of those dark abysses.
Given this review I will recommend this author to those I think might enjoy the heck out of this realm. I was going to give the book three stars but then I realized that that would reflect on the author. The only reason for my giving three was that it wasn't my cup of tea. But it was fun none-the-less.
At first I thought it was going to be all about witches. I was happy, since Bewitched I have been fascinated by the fantasy and reality of witches. But then it got into the Voodoo and zombies part. Don't know what I was expecting given the title. I put the book down for a day or so. I am not interested in black magick. If it doesn't help a person, the planet, etc. why bother. Do no harm, etc.
But my curiosity of where Jodi Redford was heading with all of this got to me. I picked it back up and enjoyed the ride. The characters were well developed and couldn't help but like them. Well, except for grandma. The story would have been shorter but as interesting without the sex parts, which is something you can't say about most erotica. But this isn't erotica per se. As I mentioned the story holds its own.
As for the zombie stuff... well, it wasn't our heroes that caused these run-amuck dust-bunnies but they had to stop them before they, yeah, as usual, take over the world. Those zombies, all they want are brains and world domination!
I don't think I'll have nightmares from the book as there was enough levity to pull out of those dark abysses.
Given this review I will recommend this author to those I think might enjoy the heck out of this realm. I was going to give the book three stars but then I realized that that would reflect on the author. The only reason for my giving three was that it wasn't my cup of tea. But it was fun none-the-less.
September 8, 2011
Favorite Quote:
“That fantasy isn’t what I really want.” She traced the line of his jaw, her eyes shimmering with moisture. “It’s you. It’s always been you.”
Review:
Jodi Redford delivers a fast-paced read packed with everything the paranormal/romance genre craves. Witches, ghosts, zombies, and of course those delectable shape-shifting familiars. Redford has an ability to transition smoothly, while keeping the flow moving without causing confusion for the reader.
The chemistry between Jemma and Griffin is earth shattering – especially after denying their feelings for so long. Yay Jemma for taking the situation in hand – you may have began a zombie apocalypse, but hey, you got your man and had some pretty apocalyptic sex too; literally.
My only complaint is that everything happens so fast! If I was faced with the many realizations thrust upon Jemma in so short a time, I would have lost my damn mind. However, the obstacles thrust upon Jemma helped keep the story alive with excitement from beginning to end.
What I loved was the light banter that continued between the characters even when faced with the dark gloom hanging overhead. Of course the hot, steamy sex didn’t hurt any either. Redford effectively left us wanting more with the epilogue of That Voodoo You Do setting up the premise of Book 2, The Seven Year Witch; Clarissa and Logan’s story. I flew through this story and cannot wait until I start Book 2.
“That fantasy isn’t what I really want.” She traced the line of his jaw, her eyes shimmering with moisture. “It’s you. It’s always been you.”
Review:
Jodi Redford delivers a fast-paced read packed with everything the paranormal/romance genre craves. Witches, ghosts, zombies, and of course those delectable shape-shifting familiars. Redford has an ability to transition smoothly, while keeping the flow moving without causing confusion for the reader.
The chemistry between Jemma and Griffin is earth shattering – especially after denying their feelings for so long. Yay Jemma for taking the situation in hand – you may have began a zombie apocalypse, but hey, you got your man and had some pretty apocalyptic sex too; literally.
My only complaint is that everything happens so fast! If I was faced with the many realizations thrust upon Jemma in so short a time, I would have lost my damn mind. However, the obstacles thrust upon Jemma helped keep the story alive with excitement from beginning to end.
What I loved was the light banter that continued between the characters even when faced with the dark gloom hanging overhead. Of course the hot, steamy sex didn’t hurt any either. Redford effectively left us wanting more with the epilogue of That Voodoo You Do setting up the premise of Book 2, The Seven Year Witch; Clarissa and Logan’s story. I flew through this story and cannot wait until I start Book 2.
May 15, 2013
I debated on how to rate this book. There were some things I really liked about the book, and some things that weren't so great. This book was well written, entertaining, and contained a little bit of everything (zombies, witches, magic, sex, ghosts, zombies). In that sense this book was fun to read. But the downfall to this book included the fact that when it was all over, I still didn't care too much about the characters and their relationships. I feel like I didn't connect with them at all. I can't explain why, that's just my opinion. Also, I realize this is a YA book, but I found the main character and her "speaking" style to be annoying and childish for what her age in the book was supposed to be. Some people say it's funny, but for some reason I just didn't agree. Over all, this book was ok. It wasn't great enough for me to want to read the next book, but it wasn't horrible either.
August 26, 2014
Okay. Wow. I grabbed this book more than two years ago at Fictionwise. For some reason, it kept dropping down in the TBR pile (possibly because I discovered Michelle Marquis at the same time). Now, all this time, I thought it was just a smutfest wrapped in a little story. Not that that would be a problem, because I read plenty of those. I just wasn't expecting what it actually turned out to be.
Griff is a man who is also a cat (of sorts), and he's the familiar of a witch that doesn't actually know that she's a witch. They've been in love with each other (and hiding it) for years, neither of them knowing that when they finally have sex, it will start a zombie apocalypse.
The story is really good, the sex is HOTTER THAN HELL, and the characters are awesome. In certain parts, it's a real tearjerker. But there is a HEA, which also made me cry. This was a great book.
Smut report: Shifters, menage, anal, magical fantasy fulfillment
Griff is a man who is also a cat (of sorts), and he's the familiar of a witch that doesn't actually know that she's a witch. They've been in love with each other (and hiding it) for years, neither of them knowing that when they finally have sex, it will start a zombie apocalypse.
The story is really good, the sex is HOTTER THAN HELL, and the characters are awesome. In certain parts, it's a real tearjerker. But there is a HEA, which also made me cry. This was a great book.
Smut report: Shifters, menage, anal, magical fantasy fulfillment
January 20, 2013
Zombie Apocalypse- need I say more? This book was hilarious, I kept stopping to read excerpts to my sister and chuckling like a crazy woman. The story line was over the top (sexy three-some needed to come into your magical powers? Riiiiiight- but hey, it was great fun! And I have a whole new appreciation for guys in tool belts). I absolutely loved this book and although the writing isn't as complex as I usually like before giving a book 5-stars, I rated the book for the sheer enjoyment of reading it, and fun characters that made the spoof so great. Not an intellectual book, but great escapism.
January 5, 2012
Okay, so I got this book free from Amazon, but already had it in my wishlist.
What a great story! Totally not what I expected. Based on the cover, I was expecting a more chick-kicking-bad-guy's-ass kind of book (yes, I judged a book by it's cover!), and to be fair, there was some ass kicking. But the story had much more! Funny, great one liners, and a hero and heroine you can cheer for.
I enjoyed them so much I bought the following two stories in the series and have the fourth in my wishlist.
What a great story! Totally not what I expected. Based on the cover, I was expecting a more chick-kicking-bad-guy's-ass kind of book (yes, I judged a book by it's cover!), and to be fair, there was some ass kicking. But the story had much more! Funny, great one liners, and a hero and heroine you can cheer for.
I enjoyed them so much I bought the following two stories in the series and have the fourth in my wishlist.
January 14, 2012
Damn, this book is sexy as hell. Jodi Redford does a fantastic job of really making you see the characters. There are quite a few really erotic parts, which in my opinion, is always a great thing.
Jemma seduces Griff in mind blowing kitchen sex that causes the earth to shake. Great news, right? Wrong. Her orgasm actually causes zombies to raise in an attack to free the spirit of a witch, Nettie, whom was put under a spell by Jemma’s grandmother.
Friends are turned against each other, zombies are killed and the truth is set free.
I rate this book 5/5 stars.
Jemma seduces Griff in mind blowing kitchen sex that causes the earth to shake. Great news, right? Wrong. Her orgasm actually causes zombies to raise in an attack to free the spirit of a witch, Nettie, whom was put under a spell by Jemma’s grandmother.
Friends are turned against each other, zombies are killed and the truth is set free.
I rate this book 5/5 stars.
January 22, 2014
This book...there are not quite enough words to describe how awesome this book was by Jodi Redford. I am as much into a steamy romance as the next girl, but this book completely spiraled that out of my comfort zone. Threesomes, witches, zombies, familiars...all of it roiled together to create a fantastic blend of this altogether too short book. Every second I enjoyed it, and I believe I have never read a book faster. I recommend this book to anyone- the only real criticism I can give it is that it ended.
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