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City of Crows #4
Doom Sayer
Aurora, Michigan is finally at peace for the first time in months.
It doesn't last very long.
As Cal Kinsey is creeping up to his one-year anniversary on Riker's team, something else is creeping through the streets of Aurora. One by one, people are falling ill with severe flu-like symptoms, and the doctors are stumped, unsure of the cause.
At first, the supernatural community ignores this largely human problem...until a wizard is infected and flies into an insane rage, destroying almost half a city block.
That is when the truth comes out: It's not a disease at all. It's an infectious curse.
With Aurora's supernatural community descending into panic, DSI goes on high alert, and every team is mobilized to hunt down the curse's source. But the ICM refuses to cooperate with the investigation. Terrified practitioners try to flee the city, risking an epidemic. A scared witch attacks a DSI team, killing multiple agents.
And just when Cal and his teammates think it can't possibly get any worse, the unthinkable happens.
The new leader of the local ICM chapter accuses a DSI agent of playing a part in the creation of the curse. Specifically, he accuses one of DSI's elite detectives: the one and only Cal Kinsey.
It doesn't last very long.
As Cal Kinsey is creeping up to his one-year anniversary on Riker's team, something else is creeping through the streets of Aurora. One by one, people are falling ill with severe flu-like symptoms, and the doctors are stumped, unsure of the cause.
At first, the supernatural community ignores this largely human problem...until a wizard is infected and flies into an insane rage, destroying almost half a city block.
That is when the truth comes out: It's not a disease at all. It's an infectious curse.
With Aurora's supernatural community descending into panic, DSI goes on high alert, and every team is mobilized to hunt down the curse's source. But the ICM refuses to cooperate with the investigation. Terrified practitioners try to flee the city, risking an epidemic. A scared witch attacks a DSI team, killing multiple agents.
And just when Cal and his teammates think it can't possibly get any worse, the unthinkable happens.
The new leader of the local ICM chapter accuses a DSI agent of playing a part in the creation of the curse. Specifically, he accuses one of DSI's elite detectives: the one and only Cal Kinsey.
300 pages, ebook
First published December 5, 2017
40 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Clara Coulson
27 books247 followersClara Coulson is an author of action-packed urban fantasy and paranormal thriller novels with sarcastic main characters and supernaturally empowered villains.
Currently living in the Middle of Nowhere, Virginia, Clara spends most of her time dreaming up bizarre paranormal scenarios and adapting them into novels and reading through the enormous backlog of books on her shelves.
Clara likes silly cats, pepperoni pizza, and collecting an absurd number of notebooks and BIC pens that she has no real use for.
Currently living in the Middle of Nowhere, Virginia, Clara spends most of her time dreaming up bizarre paranormal scenarios and adapting them into novels and reading through the enormous backlog of books on her shelves.
Clara likes silly cats, pepperoni pizza, and collecting an absurd number of notebooks and BIC pens that she has no real use for.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 28, 2018
4 Stars
Review:
First, a heads up, if you haven't already read the blurb, you might wanna skip it. It's a bit spoiler-ish. Now that that's out of the way...
If there's one thing that can be said about this series, it's that it's super consistent, and consistently GREAT. The books are not predictable or repetitive, it's just that you know there are certain things you're going to get each time you read a new book in the series.
If there's another thing that can be said about this series, it's that it has always been an interesting mash-up of urban fantasy that is typical in that it delivers on the tropes you look for as a UF reader (a fast pace, lots of intense action, a snarky MC who fights monsters and supernatural creatures), yet still breaks the mold in many ways and stands out from the crowd.
So, what are all the consistently great and mold-breaking things that made me love this book?
Cal is such a great character, one of my favorites. He's snarky and funny without being mean. He's a feminist (it's not stated, but he totally is). He cares about people. He's struggling with PTSD and is constantly getting beat up in his line of work, but he never gives up.
Cooper might seem meek at first glance since he's an archivist rather than one of the people out in the field fighting monsters, but he's feisty and just as determined to protect the citizens of Aurora as all the rest of them.
Erica has been badass from the start. She's a super powerful witch, and she's also intelligent, mature, and a good friend to Cal.
The whole team that Cal works with is so full of loyalty and care. I feel like a lot of UF leads work alone, but, in these books, there's a whole organization and team of people who really have each others' backs and look out for each other, not only in the field but also in life.
*SPOILER (for the previous books)* *END SPOILER*
Everything about these books is so realistic. I could see all the things in these books happening. That is, if the supernatural stuff happened, I could see the public and DSI agents and main characters in the books reacting like this. Even the supernatural stuff is believable in that it's not over-the-top, the supernatural baddies act in believable ways with believable motivations, etc.
These books have a lot of relevance to current events in our real world. And the serious, heavy situations are always given the gravity they deserve.
These books are always perfectly paced with so much action. They're the kind of books that grip you and make you not want to put them down. This one especially got intense and unpredictable (although I feel like I say that for every book).
I recognize that this is more of a series review than a single book review, but that's because sometimes it's really hard to find new things to say when you're already at Book 4 in a series. And this book just had all the same great things I've loved about all the previous books! So, to summarize, I yet again loved Cal and his strong spirit, the action-packed plot, the realism, and all the relationships/friendships!
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-3 in Clara Coulson's City of Crows Series. Anyone who likes action-packed urban fantasy, supernatural creatures, a hilariously snarky but also realistic and compassionate protag, and touching friendships/team dynamics.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
---------------------
Initial Thoughts:
Same great characters, relationship/friendships, intense action, and realism as the previous books!
Review:
First, a heads up, if you haven't already read the blurb, you might wanna skip it. It's a bit spoiler-ish. Now that that's out of the way...
If there's one thing that can be said about this series, it's that it's super consistent, and consistently GREAT. The books are not predictable or repetitive, it's just that you know there are certain things you're going to get each time you read a new book in the series.
If there's another thing that can be said about this series, it's that it has always been an interesting mash-up of urban fantasy that is typical in that it delivers on the tropes you look for as a UF reader (a fast pace, lots of intense action, a snarky MC who fights monsters and supernatural creatures), yet still breaks the mold in many ways and stands out from the crowd.
So, what are all the consistently great and mold-breaking things that made me love this book?
Cal is such a great character, one of my favorites. He's snarky and funny without being mean. He's a feminist (it's not stated, but he totally is). He cares about people. He's struggling with PTSD and is constantly getting beat up in his line of work, but he never gives up.
Cooper might seem meek at first glance since he's an archivist rather than one of the people out in the field fighting monsters, but he's feisty and just as determined to protect the citizens of Aurora as all the rest of them.
Erica has been badass from the start. She's a super powerful witch, and she's also intelligent, mature, and a good friend to Cal.
The whole team that Cal works with is so full of loyalty and care. I feel like a lot of UF leads work alone, but, in these books, there's a whole organization and team of people who really have each others' backs and look out for each other, not only in the field but also in life.
*SPOILER (for the previous books)* *END SPOILER*
Everything about these books is so realistic. I could see all the things in these books happening. That is, if the supernatural stuff happened, I could see the public and DSI agents and main characters in the books reacting like this. Even the supernatural stuff is believable in that it's not over-the-top, the supernatural baddies act in believable ways with believable motivations, etc.
These books have a lot of relevance to current events in our real world. And the serious, heavy situations are always given the gravity they deserve.
These books are always perfectly paced with so much action. They're the kind of books that grip you and make you not want to put them down. This one especially got intense and unpredictable (although I feel like I say that for every book).
I recognize that this is more of a series review than a single book review, but that's because sometimes it's really hard to find new things to say when you're already at Book 4 in a series. And this book just had all the same great things I've loved about all the previous books! So, to summarize, I yet again loved Cal and his strong spirit, the action-packed plot, the realism, and all the relationships/friendships!
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-3 in Clara Coulson's City of Crows Series. Anyone who likes action-packed urban fantasy, supernatural creatures, a hilariously snarky but also realistic and compassionate protag, and touching friendships/team dynamics.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
---------------------
Initial Thoughts:
Same great characters, relationship/friendships, intense action, and realism as the previous books!
June 13, 2018
3.5* maybe.
From the first I enjoyed this one, fast action, lots going on. But after a year Cal being the 'team baby' is loosing it's appeal I'd love to see some TEAM one of the older more experienced members contributing ideas not simply hear of their superior battle agility.
There was certainly one common denominator to the 'disease' that none of the highly trained professionals cared to consider. But no, it took the bad guy revealing it.
While the team meet and discuss they never actually solve anything, it's always left to some new big powerful entity to step in and secrets are revealed when the big bad steps out of the shadows to monologue. Which is a huge shame because this series has so such potential to be great. I found myself rolling my eyes through some of the big sparks flying, heads rolling showdown because it was too much. Cal is injured so severely, so frequently that I'm afraid my reaction was more 'well there's a next book he clearly recovers' than any concern.
The biggest flaw for me is the lack of emotional connection. I don't feel 'the team' any individual so if bad things happen to any of the cast it doesn't surprise or bother me. The story is pretty much all Cal falling in to danger then being the quickest thinker, only one able to do anything - with help from powerful allies who seem fascinated by him. The feels aren't there.
Dialogue is often blocky and random people seem to like writing long supportive missives to Cal. Even when it's not situation appropriate I'd except a voiced concern over a supposed loved one, but no that's low on the list. Some of the logic to events I had questions with.
I do like the way Cal being Bi is treated as no issue at all. He was seeing a woman now he's seeing a man, no-one cares or comments, better yet no-one is made less.
This all sounds negative, yet it's an entertaining read and I like this world, would like more chance to know the characters. Think much of my frustration is from the fact that it has the potential to be so much better. It's like watching a fast action film; enjoyable entertainment but not enough depth to be memorable.
From the first I enjoyed this one, fast action, lots going on. But after a year Cal being the 'team baby' is loosing it's appeal I'd love to see some TEAM one of the older more experienced members contributing ideas not simply hear of their superior battle agility.
There was certainly one common denominator to the 'disease' that none of the highly trained professionals cared to consider. But no, it took the bad guy revealing it.
While the team meet and discuss they never actually solve anything, it's always left to some new big powerful entity to step in and secrets are revealed when the big bad steps out of the shadows to monologue. Which is a huge shame because this series has so such potential to be great. I found myself rolling my eyes through some of the big sparks flying, heads rolling showdown because it was too much. Cal is injured so severely, so frequently that I'm afraid my reaction was more 'well there's a next book he clearly recovers' than any concern.
The biggest flaw for me is the lack of emotional connection. I don't feel 'the team' any individual so if bad things happen to any of the cast it doesn't surprise or bother me. The story is pretty much all Cal falling in to danger then being the quickest thinker, only one able to do anything - with help from powerful allies who seem fascinated by him. The feels aren't there.
Dialogue is often blocky and random people seem to like writing long supportive missives to Cal. Even when it's not situation appropriate I'd except a voiced concern over a supposed loved one, but no that's low on the list. Some of the logic to events I had questions with.
I do like the way Cal being Bi is treated as no issue at all. He was seeing a woman now he's seeing a man, no-one cares or comments, better yet no-one is made less.
This all sounds negative, yet it's an entertaining read and I like this world, would like more chance to know the characters. Think much of my frustration is from the fact that it has the potential to be so much better. It's like watching a fast action film; enjoyable entertainment but not enough depth to be memorable.
August 3, 2018
The author warns that there will be changes. Boy, she's not kidding. Not so much a review, but my reaction to plots revealed in this book. So everything is under spoiler tag
I think this book is pretty much a game-changer, at least for the first phase. Since the author is planning fifteen books in the series, I'm sure that there are more coming. But this is the first book where we finally gets big players revealed, Cal's having new knowledge of his past, and a familiar character who has been with readers from the first book become a victim of this supernatural war. Yep, is dead *sob*.
There's only one book left for me to read -- I've been doing read-marathon with this series -- and I can't wait to see what the repercussions as the aftermath.
On a different note, Cal officially dates a guy now and everyone are taking it with stride. I love this representative of his bisexuality considering that Cal has occasional sex with a woman in the previous two books.
I think this book is pretty much a game-changer, at least for the first phase. Since the author is planning fifteen books in the series, I'm sure that there are more coming. But this is the first book where we finally gets big players revealed, Cal's having new knowledge of his past, and a familiar character who has been with readers from the first book become a victim of this supernatural war. Yep, is dead *sob*.
There's only one book left for me to read -- I've been doing read-marathon with this series -- and I can't wait to see what the repercussions as the aftermath.
On a different note, Cal officially dates a guy now and everyone are taking it with stride. I love this representative of his bisexuality considering that Cal has occasional sex with a woman in the previous two books.
November 17, 2021
Rating (All ratings use a Scale of 1-5) = 3.5 stars, that I could see going either way. I eventually decided to round down for what felt like extremes and repetitiveness. (Discussed further under "Rating Notes")
Blurb = 3.5
My Genre Scale = 4.5
Odds if not your genre = 2
Development of: =
*World = 4, really good based on reading the series as a whole.
*Characters = 3 for the whole ensemble, 3.5 for Cal & Coop
*Plot = 4.5 including some massive changes that effect the trajectory of this series.
What stood out = The deaths, the changes, Erica
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for = Lots of bodily harm, last minute saves, diabolical secret sect set on world domination, humans trying to save their town from much more powerful supernatural beings.
Warnings = death of more than 1 minor character from previous books,
Repetitive graphic detail of bludgeoning and various forms of bodily harm.
HFN/HEA = Nope, not even slightly, other than Cal survived.
Series Notes = 4th of 8 as of Nov. 2021 with I believe more to come.
*Reading on? Yes, but honestly mostly because I have already bought through #8.
*Reading back to back? I wasn't intending to; I read the first 3 in March of 2019. But at 30%,I was so frustrated, I had to go back and reread the first 3.
*Can be easily read without the previous? Obviously, I don't think so, if I had to go back and reread after 2.5 years. But it is possible, that someone not trying to remember certain characters or events might be able to go with the flow with what background is given.
Rating Notes = (SubPlots, thoughts, etc... )
So... I had issues that started cropping up by this 4th book, some of which was mitigated by the authors warning of changes to come. A lot of which I can't discuss and stay out of "spoiler range".
My biggest issue is the amount of damage graphically described over each book multiple times that has happened to these people over what amounts to just over a years time. It just gets old, eyeroll inducing, and feeling a bit unrealistic for humans even in this fantasy world (minus the times vampire blood helps); thus it loses its impact plus disrupts my engagement. I realized how big of an issue it had become, when I found myself wool gathering while wondering - by whom and how was Cal going to be rescued at his "moment of death"once again - multiple times in this book alone. But the last set of injuries with the time that elapsed befor hospitalization etc... Defied all logic.
That being said, it didn't completely ruin the book for me. There is still a lot of interesting things going on and wrapping up moving the overall story arc forward. I really appreciated how the plot unfolded. It, at times, was very clever.
In the interest of full disclosure there were 2 things that hit my personal pet peeves. 1, the death of even minor "good guys" we've gotten to somewhat know. Though, I don't like it; I did understand why the author felt it was necessary for the story. 2nd, I typically dislike the "frame up" trope. This too was done well with some fresh aspects that made it more palpable to me.
So in summary, not my favorite by far, but not bad.
***************
I am way off my usual rate of reading over the last 11+ years. Real life has hit hard this year. Most recently with the death of my mother, and I had just been getting back into the swing of things. More upheaval appears to be on the horizon, but it has as much potential to be good as bad. I have no idea what that means for the rate of my reading and reviewing, but we will see...
***************
Below is my philosophy on reviewing!
***************
1. I try to take into account and note common pet peeves often bemoaned by others.
2. "Brain candy' does not necessarily carry a negative connotation. (What is brain candy? Publishing industry 's version of pop music - Typically: formulaic, from a prolific author published often and quickly (like monthly), things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc..) It has its uses: to pass time when tired, on the beach, etc... The problem comes when "brain candy" is unexpected or even disguised.
3. Blurb rating purpose:
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read it; I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2021) was a 3.64 average for 1527 books. Which considering, one should be better at picking out books the more one reads, I feel is an accurate average. I have over 795 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
Blurb = 3.5
My Genre Scale = 4.5
Odds if not your genre = 2
Development of: =
*World = 4, really good based on reading the series as a whole.
*Characters = 3 for the whole ensemble, 3.5 for Cal & Coop
*Plot = 4.5 including some massive changes that effect the trajectory of this series.
What stood out = The deaths, the changes, Erica
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for = Lots of bodily harm, last minute saves, diabolical secret sect set on world domination, humans trying to save their town from much more powerful supernatural beings.
Warnings = death of more than 1 minor character from previous books,
Repetitive graphic detail of bludgeoning and various forms of bodily harm.
HFN/HEA = Nope, not even slightly, other than Cal survived.
Series Notes = 4th of 8 as of Nov. 2021 with I believe more to come.
*Reading on? Yes, but honestly mostly because I have already bought through #8.
*Reading back to back? I wasn't intending to; I read the first 3 in March of 2019. But at 30%,I was so frustrated, I had to go back and reread the first 3.
*Can be easily read without the previous? Obviously, I don't think so, if I had to go back and reread after 2.5 years. But it is possible, that someone not trying to remember certain characters or events might be able to go with the flow with what background is given.
Rating Notes = (SubPlots, thoughts, etc... )
So... I had issues that started cropping up by this 4th book, some of which was mitigated by the authors warning of changes to come. A lot of which I can't discuss and stay out of "spoiler range".
My biggest issue is the amount of damage graphically described over each book multiple times that has happened to these people over what amounts to just over a years time. It just gets old, eyeroll inducing, and feeling a bit unrealistic for humans even in this fantasy world (minus the times vampire blood helps); thus it loses its impact plus disrupts my engagement. I realized how big of an issue it had become, when I found myself wool gathering while wondering - by whom and how was Cal going to be rescued at his "moment of death"once again - multiple times in this book alone. But the last set of injuries with the time that elapsed befor hospitalization etc... Defied all logic.
That being said, it didn't completely ruin the book for me. There is still a lot of interesting things going on and wrapping up moving the overall story arc forward. I really appreciated how the plot unfolded. It, at times, was very clever.
In the interest of full disclosure there were 2 things that hit my personal pet peeves. 1, the death of even minor "good guys" we've gotten to somewhat know. Though, I don't like it; I did understand why the author felt it was necessary for the story. 2nd, I typically dislike the "frame up" trope. This too was done well with some fresh aspects that made it more palpable to me.
So in summary, not my favorite by far, but not bad.
***************
I am way off my usual rate of reading over the last 11+ years. Real life has hit hard this year. Most recently with the death of my mother, and I had just been getting back into the swing of things. More upheaval appears to be on the horizon, but it has as much potential to be good as bad. I have no idea what that means for the rate of my reading and reviewing, but we will see...
***************
Below is my philosophy on reviewing!
***************
1. I try to take into account and note common pet peeves often bemoaned by others.
2. "Brain candy' does not necessarily carry a negative connotation. (What is brain candy? Publishing industry 's version of pop music - Typically: formulaic, from a prolific author published often and quickly (like monthly), things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc..) It has its uses: to pass time when tired, on the beach, etc... The problem comes when "brain candy" is unexpected or even disguised.
3. Blurb rating purpose:
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read it; I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2021) was a 3.64 average for 1527 books. Which considering, one should be better at picking out books the more one reads, I feel is an accurate average. I have over 795 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
November 15, 2018
I received an ARC edition of this book from the author.
You need to read the previous books in this series to understand the background for this book.
This story definatly had plenty of twists and turns (and some intersting misdirection) that kept the story moving. Cal is still the snark, quirky character that I've come to expect. But this is not my favorite in the series. Some of it felt like it was a bridge between story arcs, that certain pieces that have been building up have been solved so now we can expect the start of different set of problems for our hero to face (not that their aren't still plenty of original problems to be solved/dealt with, but some of the existing arc was dealt with).
I'm really glad to have the next book already so I don't have to wait to see how some of Cal's new misfortunes are going to be dealt with in the future.
You need to read the previous books in this series to understand the background for this book.
This story definatly had plenty of twists and turns (and some intersting misdirection) that kept the story moving. Cal is still the snark, quirky character that I've come to expect. But this is not my favorite in the series. Some of it felt like it was a bridge between story arcs, that certain pieces that have been building up have been solved so now we can expect the start of different set of problems for our hero to face (not that their aren't still plenty of original problems to be solved/dealt with, but some of the existing arc was dealt with).
I'm really glad to have the next book already so I don't have to wait to see how some of Cal's new misfortunes are going to be dealt with in the future.
July 2, 2018
Ok, a warning: if you’re a newcomer much of what follows won’t make sense. Don’t worry though as the easy solution is to start this series at book 1. Trust me it’s fabulous. Experienced hands read in, there’s no spoilers here.
Sorry Aurora, you aren’t destined to be a city of tranquility. A curse plague has descended your streets and the only thing that might save your denizens is the DSI - and Riker’s team. Unfortunately there’s a little problem as Cal Kinsey is accused of setting the curse in the first place. Quite the conundrum but don’t worry, Cal is up to the task. How it all gets handled is one heck of an exciting story in Doom Sayer, the sixth book in Clara Coulson’ marvelous City of Crows series. So rejoice in Aurora’s misfortunes as it does make for a story we readers can savor and enjoy. Once again this author has created a perfect story that her fans will love. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
Sorry Aurora, you aren’t destined to be a city of tranquility. A curse plague has descended your streets and the only thing that might save your denizens is the DSI - and Riker’s team. Unfortunately there’s a little problem as Cal Kinsey is accused of setting the curse in the first place. Quite the conundrum but don’t worry, Cal is up to the task. How it all gets handled is one heck of an exciting story in Doom Sayer, the sixth book in Clara Coulson’ marvelous City of Crows series. So rejoice in Aurora’s misfortunes as it does make for a story we readers can savor and enjoy. Once again this author has created a perfect story that her fans will love. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
November 30, 2020
It's the Plague and it targets people with magic, but not Cal, go figure. [oh now...] Some 'normal' people fall ill; the ones with a sixth sense, or a tendency to be lucky. This is a world where the supernatural is supposed to be hidden from people who are not in the know.
Written in 2017 - so way before covid, but it nails some of the people reactions. Panic buying, deserted streets, and some selfish assholes; magic users try to hide under a 'veil' and escape the city which would lead the plague to spread.
Oh boy, how high can the stakes get? Wizard Nazis? Eek.
888
there are still some clunky bits, the bad guys do the whole 'here is how I did it' speech on tape - rolls eyes - but the series is going from strength to strength.
Cal discovers something about the central pillar of his character, [heroes rescue people] and it appears that even losing that, it does not change who he is. [he continues to put other people before himself]
Cal is canon bisexual - and is now dating Cooper [there is a short title I am missing] and nobody comments on the change.
4 stars
Written in 2017 - so way before covid, but it nails some of the people reactions. Panic buying, deserted streets, and some selfish assholes; magic users try to hide under a 'veil' and escape the city which would lead the plague to spread.
Oh boy, how high can the stakes get? Wizard Nazis? Eek.
888
there are still some clunky bits, the bad guys do the whole 'here is how I did it' speech on tape - rolls eyes - but the series is going from strength to strength.
Cal discovers something about the central pillar of his character, [heroes rescue people] and it appears that even losing that, it does not change who he is. [he continues to put other people before himself]
Cal is canon bisexual - and is now dating Cooper [there is a short title I am missing] and nobody comments on the change.
4 stars
September 11, 2021
Cal can't catch a break. This story draws him even deeper into a conflict that was building long before Cal joined DSI.
Reading this story in 2021 was a bit difficult considering that the core of the story revolves around stopping a serious illness spreading through Aurora. Oh the parallel one could draw... The author certainly has a firm grasp of how politicians, terrorists, emergency services, and the general public react in a crisis.
I was a little aggravated by the epic fight scene. I usually like how Coulson sets them up, but this time something felt off. The combatants were referred to as the black guy, the wizard, the witch, the Wolf, and etc. The reference works fine once or twice on a page, but the fight was long. The scene and the language describing it felt a bit awkward.
Overall a good story with some interesting reveals for Cal to deal with. I am already tapping over to the next book.
Reading this story in 2021 was a bit difficult considering that the core of the story revolves around stopping a serious illness spreading through Aurora. Oh the parallel one could draw... The author certainly has a firm grasp of how politicians, terrorists, emergency services, and the general public react in a crisis.
I was a little aggravated by the epic fight scene. I usually like how Coulson sets them up, but this time something felt off. The combatants were referred to as the black guy, the wizard, the witch, the Wolf, and etc. The reference works fine once or twice on a page, but the fight was long. The scene and the language describing it felt a bit awkward.
Overall a good story with some interesting reveals for Cal to deal with. I am already tapping over to the next book.
March 6, 2022
Yea I’m just not feeling this series. I was hoping I’d get into as I learned more about the characters but that just didn’t happen. The characters are boring. I know folks love Cal but his sarcasm is lame. If you’re gonna be a smart ass then at least have the smart part down. He just says random shit that’s just distracting. Also, dear god Clara stop announcing what’s going to happen before it does. Holy cow it’s so irritating.
Lastly, if someone is going to get injured then let them be injured. It’s bonkers that someone can have a broken leg and then sprint after the bad guy. You can’t tell me it makes sense for someone to get shot and then keep fighting. Adrenaline is not the super chemical you think it is. I feel like this would’ve been a great part to trickle in some hidden powers. Maybe Carl’s magic sense increases. Maybe Cal is able to transmute magic with our beggar rings. Literally anything besides he gets beat to shit but then rises like Jesus and kicks ass.
Lastly, if someone is going to get injured then let them be injured. It’s bonkers that someone can have a broken leg and then sprint after the bad guy. You can’t tell me it makes sense for someone to get shot and then keep fighting. Adrenaline is not the super chemical you think it is. I feel like this would’ve been a great part to trickle in some hidden powers. Maybe Carl’s magic sense increases. Maybe Cal is able to transmute magic with our beggar rings. Literally anything besides he gets beat to shit but then rises like Jesus and kicks ass.
July 2, 2019
Cal is back and better than ever. Well, sort of. He’s still the lovable klutz we all know and love. He and Cooper are In A Relationship now, which is sweet. All in all, things are going well for our hero.
And then comes the Methusela group. The rogue witches responsible for the fall of the civic center and the deaths of dozens of people. Only this time, it’s a curse that spreads like a disease. And guess who is patient zero? Yep, that’s right.
What follows is more of Calvin in grave peril, but as always, he perseveres, due in large part to his allies.
As well-written as the rest of the series, with lots of action, lots of death, unpredictable plot twists. Good stuff.
There’s literally a couple of typos- a misused homonym here and there. Still a terrific book. 5 out of 5 stars.
And then comes the Methusela group. The rogue witches responsible for the fall of the civic center and the deaths of dozens of people. Only this time, it’s a curse that spreads like a disease. And guess who is patient zero? Yep, that’s right.
What follows is more of Calvin in grave peril, but as always, he perseveres, due in large part to his allies.
As well-written as the rest of the series, with lots of action, lots of death, unpredictable plot twists. Good stuff.
There’s literally a couple of typos- a misused homonym here and there. Still a terrific book. 5 out of 5 stars.
December 20, 2017
I knew I’d like Doom Sayer, by Clara Coulson, as I’ve liked the previous three books. I enjoyed the return of the main characters, and especially enjoyed Erica’s role in Doom Sayer. I was concerned that my favorite character would be sidelined, but I should’ve expected that Ms. Coulson would give me what I wanted. She tends to do that…
As is Ms. Coulson’s style, book four is wrapped up, and then she drops a bombshell that makes book five a must read. I’m just sad that I have to wait so long for the next city of crows book. Like the rest, Doom Sayer gets 4.5 stars, and as long as Clara Coulson keeps writing them, I’ll keep reading them.
As is Ms. Coulson’s style, book four is wrapped up, and then she drops a bombshell that makes book five a must read. I’m just sad that I have to wait so long for the next city of crows book. Like the rest, Doom Sayer gets 4.5 stars, and as long as Clara Coulson keeps writing them, I’ll keep reading them.
September 4, 2018
This one feels like a game changer
Wow! There were so many things that happened in this book that I completely didn't anticipate. I have no idea where this series, and Cal specifically, is going to go after this - he just can't get a break, it seems. One thing that I hope is that we'll find out more about why/how Cal is always involved in this stuff. It seems to stretch probability that everything that happens around him is just happenstance...
Hopefully the events in this book or a serious damper on the MG's activities in Aurora, but with Cal's luck, they will probably redouble their efforts.
Wow! There were so many things that happened in this book that I completely didn't anticipate. I have no idea where this series, and Cal specifically, is going to go after this - he just can't get a break, it seems. One thing that I hope is that we'll find out more about why/how Cal is always involved in this stuff. It seems to stretch probability that everything that happens around him is just happenstance...
Hopefully the events in this book or a serious damper on the MG's activities in Aurora, but with Cal's luck, they will probably redouble their efforts.
May 22, 2018
This series just keeps getting better and better. This book rounded off a lot of the plot lines introduced in the previous three books, but also felt like the start of something new. It felt like a pivot point where you finish going in one direction and then shoot off somewhere new.
If you love the first three books of this series, you are going to love this one as well. It’s as simple as that.
Word of warning, read the first three books first, don’t start with this one, it will make little sense!
If you love the first three books of this series, you are going to love this one as well. It’s as simple as that.
Word of warning, read the first three books first, don’t start with this one, it will make little sense!
October 19, 2018
I always forget how much I love this series until I start another book. This one was fabulous! I love Cal and his team, and I practically read this installment without putting it down. I had to once just because kids, but I did it begrudgingly. The plot was extremely interesting and kept me guessing. I was blown away at the end, and I can’t wait to read more in this series. In fact, I’m on to the next one. Give this series a try if you love great urban fantasy; you won’t go wrong with this one! Highly recommend!!
May 22, 2019
The stakes keep rising, the events keep getting more and more personal and Cals' world is threatening to fold in on itself as he himself feels like doing at times. His personal struggles feel so real at times, but he just gets back up and carries on. A knack for getting himself into trouble and just about out of it, a lot is revealed and question are answered, leaving us with even more. I am so glad there is enough to binge read this series! Yet more outstaying writing and I am glued to every page.
April 13, 2020
Really nice pace in this series. Cal Kinsey is always somehow fated to be in the middle of crime, but that its logical as he as the main protagonist. I liked Doom Sayer in overall, as always the main storyline was fast paced and fully enjoyable. His new relationship with Cooper Lee was surprising part of this book, I liked it nonetheless. Great work even the ending.
October 8, 2020
As usual the book is a non-stop rollercoaster of action with several twists and a couple hairpin turns. While none of the twistis entirely surprising, the major one did catch me off guard. The author ramps up the death toll and blood and gore in this one and leaves you with not exactly a happy ending, but a way forward for everyone involved that's still alive...
October 8, 2020
Unexpected events make this rather interesting. I could series with a bit of meat in between its bones. I only gave it four stars because some parts were a little bit predictable. Very hard to be totally original though a lot of these but this one does a dam good attempt. Enjoyable read
February 12, 2018
Great!
A great addition to a great series! Brought major plotlines to a close but positioned for continuing the series! Great read!
A great addition to a great series! Brought major plotlines to a close but positioned for continuing the series! Great read!
December 20, 2018
This series just gets better and better seriously I can NOT stop reading!
September 3, 2018
Cal Kinsey gak banyak aksinya kali ini, diculik lagi wkwkwkw
Erica is back!
ada highest witch yg turun gunung
Cooper Lee dikirim ke Siberia, poor baby!
Erica is back!
ada highest witch yg turun gunung
Cooper Lee dikirim ke Siberia, poor baby!
September 11, 2018
Mole People
Our intrepid hero just keeps on trying to do the right thing and has all the lumps to prove it.
Our intrepid hero just keeps on trying to do the right thing and has all the lumps to prove it.
October 4, 2018
Four down and one to go
Fourth book of this series is just as good as the first three. Cal Kinsey still being a hurt magnet and a hero at the same time. Can't wait for book 5.
Fourth book of this series is just as good as the first three. Cal Kinsey still being a hurt magnet and a hero at the same time. Can't wait for book 5.
November 5, 2018
Book four of this excellent series. The pace just doesn’t let up, one disaster after another for Cal and the team to sort out. Roll on for book five. Highly recommended.
June 10, 2019
I think I have said it all. I like this series a whole lot. It is so fun!
September 6, 2020
The series just keeps getting better and better.
May 27, 2021
Good series about a cop who works in a supernatural investigation department in Aurora, Michigan. This one has a plague...
November 10, 2020
Again, well thought out story. Great when the author has a good memory, a good plan, and incorporates many things from the previous books that connect with the present.
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