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Tallow Jones #1
Wizard Detective
Tallow Jones is an all new action-packed Urban Fantasy novel, a detective tale full of mystery, magic, and murder! Give it a try today! Explore this new side of the Bowl of Souls universe!
When Detective Douglas Jones' son goes missing under strange circumstances everyone assumes he ran away. The first break in the case comes when a long lost relative shows up with a new name and a strange tattoo on the palm of his left hand. His name is Tallow Jones. He is a private detective . . . and a wizard.
A wizard is needed too because, in Atlanta, strange abductions are just the tip of the iceberg.
When Detective Douglas Jones' son goes missing under strange circumstances everyone assumes he ran away. The first break in the case comes when a long lost relative shows up with a new name and a strange tattoo on the palm of his left hand. His name is Tallow Jones. He is a private detective . . . and a wizard.
A wizard is needed too because, in Atlanta, strange abductions are just the tip of the iceberg.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2017
65 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Trevor H. Cooley
32 books251 followersI was born in South Carolina and have lived all around the United states. Utah, New Mexico, Michigan and Tennessee.
I started reading novels in second grade and my love of Fantasy started with Lloyd Alexander's Chronicles of Prydain series. I couldn't get enough, continued with David Eddings, Tolkein, Robert Jordan. All I wanted was to become a published writer.
The characters and concepts that eventually became the Bowl of Souls series started in my teens. I wrote short stories, kept notebooks full of ideas, and generally dreamed about my world constantly. There were several attempts at starting a novel over the years.
Not long after I was married, my wife told me to stop talking about the story and write it down. Here I am, many years and rewrites and submissions and rejection letters later taking the plunge into self publishing.
The Bowl of Souls Series:
THE MOONRAT SAGA
1. Eye of the Moonrat
2. Messenger of the Dark Prophet
3. Hunt of the Bandham
1.5. Hilt's Pride
4. War of Stardeon
5. Mother of the Moonrat
THE JHARRO GROVE SAGA
1. Tarah Woodblade
2. Protector of the Grove
3. Ogre Apprentice
4. The Troll King
5. Priestess of War
6. Behemoth (2017)
THE DARK PROPHET SAGA
1. Sir Edge (Upcoming)
TALLOW JONES
1. Tallow Jones: Wizard Detective (Fall 2017)
NOOSE JUMPERS
1. Noose Jumpers: A Mythological Western
2. (Upcoming)
I currently live in Idaho with my wife and four children.
I started reading novels in second grade and my love of Fantasy started with Lloyd Alexander's Chronicles of Prydain series. I couldn't get enough, continued with David Eddings, Tolkein, Robert Jordan. All I wanted was to become a published writer.
The characters and concepts that eventually became the Bowl of Souls series started in my teens. I wrote short stories, kept notebooks full of ideas, and generally dreamed about my world constantly. There were several attempts at starting a novel over the years.
Not long after I was married, my wife told me to stop talking about the story and write it down. Here I am, many years and rewrites and submissions and rejection letters later taking the plunge into self publishing.
The Bowl of Souls Series:
THE MOONRAT SAGA
1. Eye of the Moonrat
2. Messenger of the Dark Prophet
3. Hunt of the Bandham
1.5. Hilt's Pride
4. War of Stardeon
5. Mother of the Moonrat
THE JHARRO GROVE SAGA
1. Tarah Woodblade
2. Protector of the Grove
3. Ogre Apprentice
4. The Troll King
5. Priestess of War
6. Behemoth (2017)
THE DARK PROPHET SAGA
1. Sir Edge (Upcoming)
TALLOW JONES
1. Tallow Jones: Wizard Detective (Fall 2017)
NOOSE JUMPERS
1. Noose Jumpers: A Mythological Western
2. (Upcoming)
I currently live in Idaho with my wife and four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 28, 2017
Tallow Jones: Wizard Detective
The Tallow Novels, Book 1
By: Trevor H. Cooley
Narrated by: Andrew Tell
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This is one of the best fantasy mystery book I have ever listen/read! Wow! It is so great! Full of suspense, action, magic, adventure, creatures, wonderful fantasy, great characters, a wonderful mystery, and lots of twists! A really great book and I am going to put it in my favorite book list. I can't wait for the next book! Loved it. This is the first book I have read/listened from this author but it won't be the last!
The narrator was awesome! He was able to do soooo many different characters, real and imaginary, various ages, sexes, and creatures. Great job!
The Tallow Novels, Book 1
By: Trevor H. Cooley
Narrated by: Andrew Tell
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This is one of the best fantasy mystery book I have ever listen/read! Wow! It is so great! Full of suspense, action, magic, adventure, creatures, wonderful fantasy, great characters, a wonderful mystery, and lots of twists! A really great book and I am going to put it in my favorite book list. I can't wait for the next book! Loved it. This is the first book I have read/listened from this author but it won't be the last!
The narrator was awesome! He was able to do soooo many different characters, real and imaginary, various ages, sexes, and creatures. Great job!
Read
October 5, 2017I don't review my own books so I'm not giving this a star rating, but I thought I'd give you some insight into what inspired the book and how it came about.
I started writing Tallow Jones: Wizard Detective in the fall of 2013. I had been writing the third book of the Bowl of Souls and I became really interested about the concept of a wizard who is a detective. He finds clues using his magic and then he has to help forensics find proof that they can use in court.
That concept evolved and the Wizard became a wizard from the world of the Bowl of Souls and the setting became Modern day Atlanta. Then when I was about eight chapters in, I was telling some friends about the concept. They said, "Oh, you mean something like the Dresden Files?" I was bummed that my idea had already been done. I put the book aside and read several Dresden books and really liked them. They were quite different from the book I was writing, but I put my project to the side.
Then, earlier this year, I finished the last book of the current Bowl of Souls Saga. That wizard detective novel started calling to me again. I went back over those eight chapters. Did some rewrites and became so involved in the characters that I finished the book in two months. It was an amazing ride and I think it is my best writing yet. Several people who have read it agreed with me.
So, I ask you to give it a shot. If it does well, I wan't to continue. I have so many more mysteries and adventures for Tallow to experience. If you have read my past books, don't worry. This story won't change the world of the Bowl of Souls. If you haven't read any of my work yet, this is a great place to start. You don't need to have read my past books to understand and though the story has an ending that allows for the future sequels I want to write, the story is self contained. No cliff hangers.
Thank you for your time.
I started writing Tallow Jones: Wizard Detective in the fall of 2013. I had been writing the third book of the Bowl of Souls and I became really interested about the concept of a wizard who is a detective. He finds clues using his magic and then he has to help forensics find proof that they can use in court.
That concept evolved and the Wizard became a wizard from the world of the Bowl of Souls and the setting became Modern day Atlanta. Then when I was about eight chapters in, I was telling some friends about the concept. They said, "Oh, you mean something like the Dresden Files?" I was bummed that my idea had already been done. I put the book aside and read several Dresden books and really liked them. They were quite different from the book I was writing, but I put my project to the side.
Then, earlier this year, I finished the last book of the current Bowl of Souls Saga. That wizard detective novel started calling to me again. I went back over those eight chapters. Did some rewrites and became so involved in the characters that I finished the book in two months. It was an amazing ride and I think it is my best writing yet. Several people who have read it agreed with me.
So, I ask you to give it a shot. If it does well, I wan't to continue. I have so many more mysteries and adventures for Tallow to experience. If you have read my past books, don't worry. This story won't change the world of the Bowl of Souls. If you haven't read any of my work yet, this is a great place to start. You don't need to have read my past books to understand and though the story has an ending that allows for the future sequels I want to write, the story is self contained. No cliff hangers.
Thank you for your time.
December 29, 2017
I was hooked very quickly. I was listening to another book when I started this one, but had to finish it before going back to the first. There were a number of moments when I laughed out loud. My wife listened to it next and I kept having to ask what part she'd just listened to because of her reactions.
I had read the Bowl of Souls series first. She had not. We both enjoyed it for our own reasons.
And I just know Cooley has a family member who knits. No one else knows that pain. :D My wife is going to share this book with her knitting friends because of the references in it.
She actually clued in on somethings before I did. It's a good mystery with solvable parts. I am eager for the next book!
I had read the Bowl of Souls series first. She had not. We both enjoyed it for our own reasons.
And I just know Cooley has a family member who knits. No one else knows that pain. :D My wife is going to share this book with her knitting friends because of the references in it.
She actually clued in on somethings before I did. It's a good mystery with solvable parts. I am eager for the next book!
January 2, 2018
If I only judged a book by its cover, I wouldn't have picked this one up (Seriously Uggh), but the narrator, Andrew Tell, sounded pretty good in the snippet that Audible offered up... The blurb almost turned me off as much as the cover art, but there was something else that drew my attention... It was a fairly flattering 3* review! That promised that this urban fantasy wasn't another Harry Dresden knockoff, as I had feared from the aforementioned blurb...
The reviewer's right, and I found the book delightful... Tallow Jones is a strange Mage/turned PI who ingratiates himself with the Atlanta Police. Tallow starts sussing out a kidnapping which most of the police force believes is simply a runaway... And I didn't see the curve ball that the author threw, 'til it hit me! Wow!
The reviewer's right, and I found the book delightful... Tallow Jones is a strange Mage/turned PI who ingratiates himself with the Atlanta Police. Tallow starts sussing out a kidnapping which most of the police force believes is simply a runaway... And I didn't see the curve ball that the author threw, 'til it hit me! Wow!
November 4, 2017
Continued amazement
As a stand alone novel this book is very well written. If you haven't read any of Mr Cooleys books before then I would highly encourage you to do so as your experience with this one will grow exponentially. Once again Mr Cooley grabbed me by the ear and gleefully led me down a wonderful adventure that twisted and turned and gave wonderful surprises. I cannot recommend this book and all his other works enough. Thank you Mr Cooley and once again I am impatiently awaiting your next adventure!
As a stand alone novel this book is very well written. If you haven't read any of Mr Cooleys books before then I would highly encourage you to do so as your experience with this one will grow exponentially. Once again Mr Cooley grabbed me by the ear and gleefully led me down a wonderful adventure that twisted and turned and gave wonderful surprises. I cannot recommend this book and all his other works enough. Thank you Mr Cooley and once again I am impatiently awaiting your next adventure!
October 24, 2017
Like all of Trevor's books, once I get started I find it so difficult to put them down, especially this one! I found myself using each spare minute to take in another chapter. It is exceptionally written, and for a self-published author, it is really well edited. In fact, I don't recall seeing any errors in this one, so cudos to his wife for a job well done editing. If you're looking for sex, drugs, or even cuss words, just move along as you won't find any of that in here and that's a big reason I enjoy reading his books so much; they are engaging, hold your attention, without all of the vulgarity and sleaze found elsewhere in other books. If you're looking for high-quality entertainment that leaves you feeling surprised and good when you've finished, I highly encourage you to buy this book and support this awesome author.
January 4, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised and definitely impressed.
My go-to genre is “Blood and Guts.” I love psychological thrillers, police procedurals, murders, serial killers, and the like. I knew this was not going to be an intense read. That said, there were some really well thought out plot twists — I didn’t see Tallow’s real identity coming. (I thought he was someone else.) There were also some absolutely “coffee-out-the-nose” hilarious moments. I love sarcasm and there was much of it in Tallow Jones. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
I absolutely loved Agatha; she reminds me of a little girl I know. When I was reading the book, I actually read in her voice. The down side was when I was listening to the audio version, Mr. Tell voices Agatha like he does Tarah Woodblade. Maybe Trevor could get another narrator for this series to add depth and variety to the narrative.
Trevor has pulled me out of my niche. Other than reading Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings,” I hadn’t read much fantasy. Perhaps one or two other writers over my 52 years. However, thanks to Trevor’s incredible imagination and story telling abilities, I’ve delved more into the genre. I’ll never be a diehard fantasy fan; however, I no longer turn my nose up at “those” people.
BTW: if you’re wondering why I didn’t give this five stars, it’s because of principle. I am totally grossed out by the name “Tallow.” That is rendered beef fat. You know what? People used to make candles out of that stuff. I’m STILL waiting for Trevor to tell me why he chose that. LOL He just said some nonsense about “plot” or some dumb thing like that. Writers. SMH
My go-to genre is “Blood and Guts.” I love psychological thrillers, police procedurals, murders, serial killers, and the like. I knew this was not going to be an intense read. That said, there were some really well thought out plot twists — I didn’t see Tallow’s real identity coming. (I thought he was someone else.) There were also some absolutely “coffee-out-the-nose” hilarious moments. I love sarcasm and there was much of it in Tallow Jones. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
I absolutely loved Agatha; she reminds me of a little girl I know. When I was reading the book, I actually read in her voice. The down side was when I was listening to the audio version, Mr. Tell voices Agatha like he does Tarah Woodblade. Maybe Trevor could get another narrator for this series to add depth and variety to the narrative.
Trevor has pulled me out of my niche. Other than reading Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings,” I hadn’t read much fantasy. Perhaps one or two other writers over my 52 years. However, thanks to Trevor’s incredible imagination and story telling abilities, I’ve delved more into the genre. I’ll never be a diehard fantasy fan; however, I no longer turn my nose up at “those” people.
BTW: if you’re wondering why I didn’t give this five stars, it’s because of principle. I am totally grossed out by the name “Tallow.” That is rendered beef fat. You know what? People used to make candles out of that stuff. I’m STILL waiting for Trevor to tell me why he chose that. LOL He just said some nonsense about “plot” or some dumb thing like that. Writers. SMH
November 27, 2017
Enjoyed the book
I was hesitant to read this at forst, expecting a Harry Dresden knockoff, but I was pleasantly surprised with the characters. I expect more will come on the future, but for now it was an enjoyable afternoon read.
I was hesitant to read this at forst, expecting a Harry Dresden knockoff, but I was pleasantly surprised with the characters. I expect more will come on the future, but for now it was an enjoyable afternoon read.
October 11, 2017
Good start
This was a good start to an new series a lot of effort was spent introducing the new characters and world as well as the plot arc. I liked the way magic was introduced to this earth and that not everyone was immediately convinced. The back and forth between characters felt natural and easy especially Aggie (who was my favourite). I'm looking forward to the next book to see not only more detective stories but how this family cope with the changes that have happened.
This was a good start to an new series a lot of effort was spent introducing the new characters and world as well as the plot arc. I liked the way magic was introduced to this earth and that not everyone was immediately convinced. The back and forth between characters felt natural and easy especially Aggie (who was my favourite). I'm looking forward to the next book to see not only more detective stories but how this family cope with the changes that have happened.
February 2, 2018
"Loved it so f- darn much! "
This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an -->unbiased<-- review
First things first... I'm not in love with the cover art here, and while I know we aren't supposed to judge a book by its cover, I usually start there. I'm so happy to share that this book was wonderful! Having read it, I also have a different take on the cover now FWIW :)
Now, let's talk about the narration. Andrew Tell. I have had zero previous experience listening to his work, but this book definitely made me a fan! I have looked into Andrew Tell's work and now have several more books in my wishlist. That is the highest praise I think I can give, really.
And that established, the same goes for one Trevor H. Cooley! I have added his entire Bowl of Souls series to my wishlist. I'm pretty sure I passed up on a couple during sales in the past, too, and I'm kicking myself.
Anyhow, this book starts off following Asher, the son of a Detective Douglas Jones, and brother to 8-year-old Aggie. This perspective is really for the prologue. The book takes up pretty quickly with Detective Jones as our primary focus. Tallow comes in soon enough. My first impressions were a bit reserved; I was interested in the goings on, but I was just listening the Dresden Files and I was wondering if this would be a clone. It's not! I love the darkness of Dresden at times, and I would say this never got so dark as that. Tallow book 1 does have its share of blood, so don't mistake me by thinking this book is about roses and butterflies. I found that, despite the darkness being a bit more shallow, it was done right and served the story well. The book has lots of dialogue, and some action, that drive the story on. It never felt forced or rushed. I never was jarred out of my "reading trance" by some weird detail or lack thereof. I thought things made sense and I was left with a sense of satisfaction while still wanting more. I though the characters balanced each well and were well-balanced themselves.
Oh, one more thing. Personally, I don't mind swearing or cursing at all, and even sometimes enjoy it. This book contains basically ZERO swearing or cursing. Even better, Trevor H. Cooley puts this in front of us in a way that I found clever. It even helps add a bit more depth to the character background.
I think sometimes I may be a "generous" reviewer, but I really believe that Tallow Jones book 1 earns its stars. The blend of excellent writing and narration was just what I wanted - and I want more.
This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an -->unbiased<-- review
First things first... I'm not in love with the cover art here, and while I know we aren't supposed to judge a book by its cover, I usually start there. I'm so happy to share that this book was wonderful! Having read it, I also have a different take on the cover now FWIW :)
Now, let's talk about the narration. Andrew Tell. I have had zero previous experience listening to his work, but this book definitely made me a fan! I have looked into Andrew Tell's work and now have several more books in my wishlist. That is the highest praise I think I can give, really.
And that established, the same goes for one Trevor H. Cooley! I have added his entire Bowl of Souls series to my wishlist. I'm pretty sure I passed up on a couple during sales in the past, too, and I'm kicking myself.
Anyhow, this book starts off following Asher, the son of a Detective Douglas Jones, and brother to 8-year-old Aggie. This perspective is really for the prologue. The book takes up pretty quickly with Detective Jones as our primary focus. Tallow comes in soon enough. My first impressions were a bit reserved; I was interested in the goings on, but I was just listening the Dresden Files and I was wondering if this would be a clone. It's not! I love the darkness of Dresden at times, and I would say this never got so dark as that. Tallow book 1 does have its share of blood, so don't mistake me by thinking this book is about roses and butterflies. I found that, despite the darkness being a bit more shallow, it was done right and served the story well. The book has lots of dialogue, and some action, that drive the story on. It never felt forced or rushed. I never was jarred out of my "reading trance" by some weird detail or lack thereof. I thought things made sense and I was left with a sense of satisfaction while still wanting more. I though the characters balanced each well and were well-balanced themselves.
Oh, one more thing. Personally, I don't mind swearing or cursing at all, and even sometimes enjoy it. This book contains basically ZERO swearing or cursing. Even better, Trevor H. Cooley puts this in front of us in a way that I found clever. It even helps add a bit more depth to the character background.
I think sometimes I may be a "generous" reviewer, but I really believe that Tallow Jones book 1 earns its stars. The blend of excellent writing and narration was just what I wanted - and I want more.
November 8, 2017
Great book. Fun read
I was not sure I would like this book. I have really enjoyed the Bowl of Souls and Jharro Grove books and this ties in really well to those series. Really fun twist that I never saw coming. Well worth reading and I look forward to more in the series!
I was not sure I would like this book. I have really enjoyed the Bowl of Souls and Jharro Grove books and this ties in really well to those series. Really fun twist that I never saw coming. Well worth reading and I look forward to more in the series!
September 12, 2020
My Thoughts:
This is the first book in the Tallow Mysteries which is an offshoot series from The Bowl Of Souls saga. Reading about the old world, Gaiana, made me miss the old characters like old friends.. like Death Claw and Fist!! It makes me wish that there would be more Bowl Of Souls books with Death Claw in it and more...
Andrew Tell sounds surprisingly so similar to James Foster that I thought I was listening to James Foster still, until about halfway through. Hah! My ears fooled me!
The author skated closely to destroying the plot. He had a lot of explaining to do to tie ends up nicely. Which he did... and skimmed through by the skin of his teeth.
The cover is not the best cover art in the world. If I hadn't known the author already, I don't think I would be picking up this book. It might be apropos to the story but it is not conducive to "book-buying" to my fantasy geek eyes.
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4
Character development = 4
Story itself = 4
Writing Style = 4
Ending = 4
World building = 4
Cover art = 2.5
Pace = 4
Plot = 3.5
Narration = 5
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
http://www.cherrymischievous.com/2020...
This is the first book in the Tallow Mysteries which is an offshoot series from The Bowl Of Souls saga. Reading about the old world, Gaiana, made me miss the old characters like old friends.. like Death Claw and Fist!! It makes me wish that there would be more Bowl Of Souls books with Death Claw in it and more...
Andrew Tell sounds surprisingly so similar to James Foster that I thought I was listening to James Foster still, until about halfway through. Hah! My ears fooled me!
The author skated closely to destroying the plot. He had a lot of explaining to do to tie ends up nicely. Which he did... and skimmed through by the skin of his teeth.
The cover is not the best cover art in the world. If I hadn't known the author already, I don't think I would be picking up this book. It might be apropos to the story but it is not conducive to "book-buying" to my fantasy geek eyes.
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4
Character development = 4
Story itself = 4
Writing Style = 4
Ending = 4
World building = 4
Cover art = 2.5
Pace = 4
Plot = 3.5
Narration = 5
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
http://www.cherrymischievous.com/2020...
October 6, 2017
At this time, I have read all of Mr. Cooleys novels. The good and the bad, and when I have not liked a book, I have made it known. Trevor may be a friend of mine, but I never pull punches on a book just because I like an author.
So lets go into this one.
1. READ IT. Look, I know you have an idea in your mind of what this book is. What it will read like, I tell you this....you dont. You have an expectation, maybe Dresden or Dr. Who. Kick that out of your mind and prepare for something new and interesting.
2. Trevor has always been great at pacing his books. This continues that, chapter to chapter you will not want to turn this one away!
3.....Now to be fully honest. This is the best work of Trevors career. Not a single one of his previous novels are written as well as this one. You can see his passion and excitement from page to page.
Seriously. Read the book. You will not regret it, and you will find yourself begging to read more. Ask nicely, and he may just do so.
So lets go into this one.
1. READ IT. Look, I know you have an idea in your mind of what this book is. What it will read like, I tell you this....you dont. You have an expectation, maybe Dresden or Dr. Who. Kick that out of your mind and prepare for something new and interesting.
2. Trevor has always been great at pacing his books. This continues that, chapter to chapter you will not want to turn this one away!
3.....Now to be fully honest. This is the best work of Trevors career. Not a single one of his previous novels are written as well as this one. You can see his passion and excitement from page to page.
Seriously. Read the book. You will not regret it, and you will find yourself begging to read more. Ask nicely, and he may just do so.
November 2, 2017
Decent
Has real good potential. Characters need fleshing out. Title character comes as a surprise and from a fairly original angle. Series needs to decide if it will play a lighter side in the genre or if it goes darker. Writing and dialogue is strong.
Has real good potential. Characters need fleshing out. Title character comes as a surprise and from a fairly original angle. Series needs to decide if it will play a lighter side in the genre or if it goes darker. Writing and dialogue is strong.
October 28, 2019
Nailed it
After reading the Bowl Of Souls series and loving it so much, I was unsure how it would feel starting a potential new series.
I’ve read all the Dresden books so at first thought there would be similarities (and there are in that they are both great to read) but in fact Tallow Jones builds a different world to be immersed in. There are some clear ties to Bowl of Souls which show they sure the same universe but I could happily read both series simultaneously without it becoming too ‘samey’.
Recommend you pick this one up and give it a go! Bring on book 2 Trevor!!
After reading the Bowl Of Souls series and loving it so much, I was unsure how it would feel starting a potential new series.
I’ve read all the Dresden books so at first thought there would be similarities (and there are in that they are both great to read) but in fact Tallow Jones builds a different world to be immersed in. There are some clear ties to Bowl of Souls which show they sure the same universe but I could happily read both series simultaneously without it becoming too ‘samey’.
Recommend you pick this one up and give it a go! Bring on book 2 Trevor!!
May 1, 2018
First up I should say I got this audio book to review via the author...I have to say that I agree with some folk about the cover art it could sure do with some work, but as the famous saying goes "Never judge a book by its cover" and having done that I dived right in. I really enjoy an author who can inject a bit of humour into a story and its characters so well done to Mr Cooley for that. The book is well written and it flows nicely and was well narrated. All in all a thoroughly good listen and a few chortles which annoy the hell out of the Mrs when shes reading her book...
February 2, 2018
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the subtle comedy and the interesting way the magic was woven into the tale without completely taking over. The little twists were nice as well. I think some parts were a bit drawn out and there could have been more frightening sequences, but it was a good read none the less. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
This book was given to me for free at my request for my voluntary and unbiased review.
This book was given to me for free at my request for my voluntary and unbiased review.
February 8, 2018
Fun twist from original world
A kind of spin-off from another story. I found it an enjoyable and intriguing story. Shortly after the disappearance of his son, a stranger claming to ve an astranged uncle showes up on Detective Douglas' doorstep offering assistance. As they search for missing teens, Detective Douglas witnesses strange creatures, magic and a portal to another world. I look forward to the second book.
A kind of spin-off from another story. I found it an enjoyable and intriguing story. Shortly after the disappearance of his son, a stranger claming to ve an astranged uncle showes up on Detective Douglas' doorstep offering assistance. As they search for missing teens, Detective Douglas witnesses strange creatures, magic and a portal to another world. I look forward to the second book.
February 11, 2018
Highly enjoyable read!
Great beginning for a new series! A wizard detective is fun, and the elements of magic bring more to the detectives table. I found this novel to be a nice diversion, like a weekend trip! It's capable of stand alone quality, without having read Bowl of Souls, but an excellent follow through for a branching out series! And the receptionist with teeth, noteworthy for awesome creepypasta! I'd like more of that!
Great beginning for a new series! A wizard detective is fun, and the elements of magic bring more to the detectives table. I found this novel to be a nice diversion, like a weekend trip! It's capable of stand alone quality, without having read Bowl of Souls, but an excellent follow through for a branching out series! And the receptionist with teeth, noteworthy for awesome creepypasta! I'd like more of that!
January 25, 2018
Wow. I didn't expect to love this so much!
I love the bowl of souls series, so I figured I could give this a shot, even though it isn't what I'd normally read. I really loved the way reality and fantasy are mixed together, and the characters are generally likable and relatable. I am definitely looking forward to the sequel!
I love the bowl of souls series, so I figured I could give this a shot, even though it isn't what I'd normally read. I really loved the way reality and fantasy are mixed together, and the characters are generally likable and relatable. I am definitely looking forward to the sequel!
March 17, 2018
Review originally published at: http://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookre...
Asher, Detective Douglas’ son, disappears without a trace. The police’s investigations are not fruitful and the case gets cold. Soon after, Tallow Jones, one of Douglas uncles, reappears after a long time, in order to assist with Asher’s case.
There were many things I enjoyed from this book: an intriguing plot, interesting and likable characters, a great narration. I loved Asher’s little sister, even though her abilities being just eight years old seemed a bit unrealistic. As a knitter myself, I really enjoyed the comments about her knitting, and I had to smile when she complained that ‘acrylic squeaks on the needles’ because it’s absolutely true! Only knitters will understand this.
I think this was an interesting plot, but sadly I lost soon interest after a while since it seemed that Asher had dissipated into thin air. I expected a little bit more from his point of view, but from a certain point, the book is just about Tallow and Douglas looking here and there. While I was listening to the story, and after the big reveal, I thought that the other part would have been much more interesting. It’s true that I haven’t read the other books within The Bowl of Souls, so maybe Cooley deals with the other aspects of the story in a different book.
I also felt that this book was addressed to Young Adults, but the character appearing in the story are adults and an eight-year old, which seems odd. Due to some gruesome scenes this book is not appropriate for young kids. Somehow the story and characters don’t really match the audience this book is targeted, and the fact that we seem to be missing the best part of the story felt a bit underwhelming.
What I absolutely loved was Andrew Tell’s narration. He used a compelling tone that kept me interested until the very end. The book was okay, but what kept me going was Tell’s narration. He delivered great character’s interpretations, giving each of them different voices and styles. Perfect narration and perfect audio production!
Although this was just an okay book, I am curious to listen to other books by this author. I think The Bowl of Souls saga would work better for me.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
Asher, Detective Douglas’ son, disappears without a trace. The police’s investigations are not fruitful and the case gets cold. Soon after, Tallow Jones, one of Douglas uncles, reappears after a long time, in order to assist with Asher’s case.
There were many things I enjoyed from this book: an intriguing plot, interesting and likable characters, a great narration. I loved Asher’s little sister, even though her abilities being just eight years old seemed a bit unrealistic. As a knitter myself, I really enjoyed the comments about her knitting, and I had to smile when she complained that ‘acrylic squeaks on the needles’ because it’s absolutely true! Only knitters will understand this.
I think this was an interesting plot, but sadly I lost soon interest after a while since it seemed that Asher had dissipated into thin air. I expected a little bit more from his point of view, but from a certain point, the book is just about Tallow and Douglas looking here and there. While I was listening to the story, and after the big reveal, I thought that the other part would have been much more interesting. It’s true that I haven’t read the other books within The Bowl of Souls, so maybe Cooley deals with the other aspects of the story in a different book.
I also felt that this book was addressed to Young Adults, but the character appearing in the story are adults and an eight-year old, which seems odd. Due to some gruesome scenes this book is not appropriate for young kids. Somehow the story and characters don’t really match the audience this book is targeted, and the fact that we seem to be missing the best part of the story felt a bit underwhelming.
What I absolutely loved was Andrew Tell’s narration. He used a compelling tone that kept me interested until the very end. The book was okay, but what kept me going was Tell’s narration. He delivered great character’s interpretations, giving each of them different voices and styles. Perfect narration and perfect audio production!
Although this was just an okay book, I am curious to listen to other books by this author. I think The Bowl of Souls saga would work better for me.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2018
•Audiobook•
I really lost interest after the middle of the second chapter. But pushed through.
Andrew Tell, narrator, brought a presense to the characters and made it somewhat intriguing. I really liked listening to him.
However, Tallow’s appearance never made sense and once you realize he’s Asher, it made even less sense. As close as he was with his family and dad’s partner, he refrained himself too much. So he hasn’t seen them in decades and can be so controlled around his dad and sister?
The “estranged” relationship felt like it melted away too quickly, especially with the raw abandonment emotions Douglas made sure he talked to his partner about and clued in to readers with the head popping.
At one moment Tallow reference “my dad” taught/showed me. Not ‘our dad’ -and it was not in reference to Douglas ....
When he ‘met’ the partner, why would he spew intimate details about his marital relationship? That was just stupid.
The banter between Douglas and Ross seemed juvenile. The ‘detective skills’ were scooby doo level.
It also didn’t make sense how Asher was able to use ‘magic’ so easily in a non magical world, without any mishaps.
I have never heard of a chief telling underlings decisions of hiring without extending the offer firsthand to the ‘applicant’ or meeting him.
What would he know about being a detective?
Who the heck takes an eight year old to investigate? And talk to people around her?
There was a part when it reflected “Douglas’s wife would have referred to her as uncommin pretty”. His wife? His dead wife? Maybe his “late wife”?
Way too much telling and not showing. Too much head popping thoughts with little delivery made this book agonizingly drag. Info dump galore, unceremoniously. I had to refrain from “Skip 10 seconds” becoming my bestie.
The blurb was intriguing. The sample sounded fun and light. To say I was disappointed is an understatement. And after writing this review, I may knock another star off the book/story.
I would never listen to this again nor follow the series. I truly did like it.
It seems too uneven and dry for a younger audience; and too immature for an older.
I read reviews -on this book-about the cover. It seemed that was quite the opposite for me. The cover screamed to me of it dark mysticism with quality writing ....
I really lost interest after the middle of the second chapter. But pushed through.
Andrew Tell, narrator, brought a presense to the characters and made it somewhat intriguing. I really liked listening to him.
However, Tallow’s appearance never made sense and once you realize he’s Asher, it made even less sense. As close as he was with his family and dad’s partner, he refrained himself too much. So he hasn’t seen them in decades and can be so controlled around his dad and sister?
The “estranged” relationship felt like it melted away too quickly, especially with the raw abandonment emotions Douglas made sure he talked to his partner about and clued in to readers with the head popping.
At one moment Tallow reference “my dad” taught/showed me. Not ‘our dad’ -and it was not in reference to Douglas ....
When he ‘met’ the partner, why would he spew intimate details about his marital relationship? That was just stupid.
The banter between Douglas and Ross seemed juvenile. The ‘detective skills’ were scooby doo level.
It also didn’t make sense how Asher was able to use ‘magic’ so easily in a non magical world, without any mishaps.
I have never heard of a chief telling underlings decisions of hiring without extending the offer firsthand to the ‘applicant’ or meeting him.
What would he know about being a detective?
Who the heck takes an eight year old to investigate? And talk to people around her?
There was a part when it reflected “Douglas’s wife would have referred to her as uncommin pretty”. His wife? His dead wife? Maybe his “late wife”?
Way too much telling and not showing. Too much head popping thoughts with little delivery made this book agonizingly drag. Info dump galore, unceremoniously. I had to refrain from “Skip 10 seconds” becoming my bestie.
The blurb was intriguing. The sample sounded fun and light. To say I was disappointed is an understatement. And after writing this review, I may knock another star off the book/story.
I would never listen to this again nor follow the series. I truly did like it.
It seems too uneven and dry for a younger audience; and too immature for an older.
I read reviews -on this book-about the cover. It seemed that was quite the opposite for me. The cover screamed to me of it dark mysticism with quality writing ....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2018
(NOTE: I received a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.)
Audiobook review. Narrator: Andrew Tell
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
This was a fun, easy read. It is book 1 in a new offshoot series of the Bowl Of Souls. I am not familiar with the other books in the Bowl of Souls series so I had no idea of what to expect in this book. It takes place in our world but with 'magic' crossing over from another world. It's a missing person mystery on the surface, but gets complicated when Tallow Jones, Wizard Detective, enters the picture to help the police in their missing person search.
A plot twist, which happens about 2/3 rds of the way through, really took me by surprise. I love it when an author can do that, although maybe if I were familiar with the Bowl Of Souls universe I wouldn't have been so shocked by the turn of events.
The narrator also did a fantastic job with the different voices of the characters. I was never confused by who was doing the talking.
My only issue with the book, which is why I knocked it down by a 1/2 star, is that there were several places with point-of-view (POV) shifting without any natural break. In Chapter 6, for example, Doug and Ross, the two police detectives, are discussing Tallow Jones and it is from Doug's POV. Doug then gets a phone call and the POV suddenly switches from Doug to Ross. Now the reader is inside Ross' head, with Ross thinking he felt uncomfortable. There's another place I marked in Chapter 12, but I don't want to detail that here as it would contain spoilers. The switches are pretty quick, and overall mostly minor, with it flipping for just a sentence or two and then back. Most readers probably won't notice it, but it's something that jumps out at me and I can't ignore it.
The story is pretty much self contained but left open for more to be written in the series; I look forward to the next book and hope it will also be in audiobook form.
Audiobook review. Narrator: Andrew Tell
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
This was a fun, easy read. It is book 1 in a new offshoot series of the Bowl Of Souls. I am not familiar with the other books in the Bowl of Souls series so I had no idea of what to expect in this book. It takes place in our world but with 'magic' crossing over from another world. It's a missing person mystery on the surface, but gets complicated when Tallow Jones, Wizard Detective, enters the picture to help the police in their missing person search.
A plot twist, which happens about 2/3 rds of the way through, really took me by surprise. I love it when an author can do that, although maybe if I were familiar with the Bowl Of Souls universe I wouldn't have been so shocked by the turn of events.
The narrator also did a fantastic job with the different voices of the characters. I was never confused by who was doing the talking.
My only issue with the book, which is why I knocked it down by a 1/2 star, is that there were several places with point-of-view (POV) shifting without any natural break. In Chapter 6, for example, Doug and Ross, the two police detectives, are discussing Tallow Jones and it is from Doug's POV. Doug then gets a phone call and the POV suddenly switches from Doug to Ross. Now the reader is inside Ross' head, with Ross thinking he felt uncomfortable. There's another place I marked in Chapter 12, but I don't want to detail that here as it would contain spoilers. The switches are pretty quick, and overall mostly minor, with it flipping for just a sentence or two and then back. Most readers probably won't notice it, but it's something that jumps out at me and I can't ignore it.
The story is pretty much self contained but left open for more to be written in the series; I look forward to the next book and hope it will also be in audiobook form.
November 8, 2018
I expected this novel to be fun yet not particularly noteworthy, but I was pleasantly surprised. The mystery is fairly well framed, the premise is unique, and the magic avoids being too showy. The dialogue is well-written, avoiding the flat expressions that too often creep into similar books, and embodying characters' personalities. The characters themselves are interesting and often a little quirky, which I liked. From Tallow himself to a beefy geeky cop to a little girl addicted to knitting, these characters are never flat or trite, although I honestly felt that some of them could have been "rounded out" a little more.
The magic involved is based more on Sword and Sorcery novels than on Mythology, but that merely made this novel more fun to a fan of series such as The Legend of Drizzt. Cooley clearly enjoys Fantasy literature, and there are several times when he shares little fantasy-related tongue-in-cheek jokes with his readers. Those "inside jokes" added a charming quality to the narrative. Some books leave one feeling like they have built connects with the characters-- which is wonderful-- but this novel is unique it that it leaves one feeling as if one has befriended the author.
My only real qualm, if it can be called that, was that I figured out Tallow's "big secret" almost at once, but others may not find it so obvious. All in all, this was a highly enjoyable read! Neither too dark to be fun nor too humorous to be taken seriously, I found it to be an engaging and entertaining tale! Fans of both High Fantasy and Detective Mystery will definitely find this novel worth picking up.
The magic involved is based more on Sword and Sorcery novels than on Mythology, but that merely made this novel more fun to a fan of series such as The Legend of Drizzt. Cooley clearly enjoys Fantasy literature, and there are several times when he shares little fantasy-related tongue-in-cheek jokes with his readers. Those "inside jokes" added a charming quality to the narrative. Some books leave one feeling like they have built connects with the characters-- which is wonderful-- but this novel is unique it that it leaves one feeling as if one has befriended the author.
My only real qualm, if it can be called that, was that I figured out Tallow's "big secret" almost at once, but others may not find it so obvious. All in all, this was a highly enjoyable read! Neither too dark to be fun nor too humorous to be taken seriously, I found it to be an engaging and entertaining tale! Fans of both High Fantasy and Detective Mystery will definitely find this novel worth picking up.
November 30, 2018
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When Asher Jones, the teenage son of Atlanta Detective Douglas Jones, goes missing, Detective Jones long-lost uncle shows up to help out in the search for Asher. It turns out that Uncle Errand has changed his name to "Tallow" for some reason that is never explained. It also turns out that Uncle Tallow is a private detective. More importantly, it turns out that Uncle Tallow is a wizard who learned magic in some other world.
Uncle Tallow is a definite help to the investigation. He puts the investigation on the right track, uses Elf magic to heal, and unleashes lightning bolts as the occasion demands.
This is a nice book. The characters are nice. Detective Jones is learning not to swear. He has a precocious eight-year-old daughter. The other characters are equally nice.
This is obviously the introductory story of a series where we get introduced to series' characters and tropes. We learn something about the monsters that are showing up in Atlanta from the world of magic. We also learn quite a bit about the magic system that exists in that world.
I enjoyed the story. It was a bit too easy, I thought, with respect to unraveling the mystery. Likewise, Uncle Tallow's never-ending bag of tricks might make him more than a match for any situation, but the story moved along and was rather enjoyable.
When Asher Jones, the teenage son of Atlanta Detective Douglas Jones, goes missing, Detective Jones long-lost uncle shows up to help out in the search for Asher. It turns out that Uncle Errand has changed his name to "Tallow" for some reason that is never explained. It also turns out that Uncle Tallow is a private detective. More importantly, it turns out that Uncle Tallow is a wizard who learned magic in some other world.
Uncle Tallow is a definite help to the investigation. He puts the investigation on the right track, uses Elf magic to heal, and unleashes lightning bolts as the occasion demands.
This is a nice book. The characters are nice. Detective Jones is learning not to swear. He has a precocious eight-year-old daughter. The other characters are equally nice.
This is obviously the introductory story of a series where we get introduced to series' characters and tropes. We learn something about the monsters that are showing up in Atlanta from the world of magic. We also learn quite a bit about the magic system that exists in that world.
I enjoyed the story. It was a bit too easy, I thought, with respect to unraveling the mystery. Likewise, Uncle Tallow's never-ending bag of tricks might make him more than a match for any situation, but the story moved along and was rather enjoyable.
May 21, 2019
The conversations often seemed contrived to allow the wizard to explain something, or seemed forced and/or repetitive. For example, he shows proof of magic at least three times throughout the book, always using an element he's 'not very strong with'. The magic system was illogical/inconsistent; he uses elements he's not very strong with all the time and never fails to succeed, very Deus ex machina. No fleshing out of spell system.
The overarching plot was solid, and the twist was a fantastic idea. An imaginative use of creatures with some likeable characters (Aggie was my favourite).
I wasn't a big fan of the main character. I'm not sure if this is due to the writing or the voice acting, but there seemed to be too much humble bragging/explaining and very little personality in the first 2/3 of the book. He only became human towards the end of the book.
2.5/5 stars but I rounded up to three.
The overarching plot was solid, and the twist was a fantastic idea. An imaginative use of creatures with some likeable characters (Aggie was my favourite).
I wasn't a big fan of the main character. I'm not sure if this is due to the writing or the voice acting, but there seemed to be too much humble bragging/explaining and very little personality in the first 2/3 of the book. He only became human towards the end of the book.
2.5/5 stars but I rounded up to three.
April 10, 2018
A well written and narrated story. The one oddity, is that in many places the writing style and narration has a definite YA feel, further reinforced by the absence of bad language and yet much of the subject matter is adult (grizzly murders, bloody crime scenes, etc.). Additionally, all of the main characters are middle aged or elderly, with the exception of an 8 year old girl. The cast of characters and subject matter, is in stark contrast to the YA feel of the book. If you can put that aside, Tallow Jones: Wizard Detective provides an enjoyable read, with enough action, suspense, mystery and an out of left field curve ball, you will not see coming, to keep you engrossed.
February 7, 2019
Just when you think the world is normal and everything is fine, you find out (the hard way) there are other worlds out there and human trafficking is happening between them. There’s something funky happening with a certain travel agency in Atlanta and Atlanta’s finest are keeping an eye on them… but so is Asher Jones… who is making more headway than Atlanta PD. When Asher goes missing, things go awry and it’s Uncle Tallow to the rescue. Problem? No one has ever heard of Uncle Tallow! Ashers’s sister, Agatha, is skeptical at best, but if Uncle Tallow can help find Asher, then let’s do it!
There are incredible twists and turns and extremely interesting developments. There laugh out loud moments and moments where I was eagerly anticipating what would happen next. The humor and sarcasm were fantastic. Andrew Tell was a fantastic narrator. The personality given to Agatha was perfect. She was a no-nonsense 8-year-old, and I loved it. It was a nice start to the series. I look forward to book 2!
There are incredible twists and turns and extremely interesting developments. There laugh out loud moments and moments where I was eagerly anticipating what would happen next. The humor and sarcasm were fantastic. Andrew Tell was a fantastic narrator. The personality given to Agatha was perfect. She was a no-nonsense 8-year-old, and I loved it. It was a nice start to the series. I look forward to book 2!
January 5, 2021
Brilliant Wizard Adventure!
I absolutely loved this book! The only reason I didn't leave it 5 stars was because there were several grammatical errors.
EXCELLENT UF plot with absolutely no lewdness, cursing or sex! Fun adventure with a nice twist and brilliant character and world building.
Tallow Jones isn't what he seems, and soon reveals that he is a wizard P.I. trying to aid in a family case that hits close to home. Honestly can't tell very much more without revealing spoilers. But would definitely read other books in this series and by this author.
I absolutely loved this book! The only reason I didn't leave it 5 stars was because there were several grammatical errors.
EXCELLENT UF plot with absolutely no lewdness, cursing or sex! Fun adventure with a nice twist and brilliant character and world building.
Tallow Jones isn't what he seems, and soon reveals that he is a wizard P.I. trying to aid in a family case that hits close to home. Honestly can't tell very much more without revealing spoilers. But would definitely read other books in this series and by this author.
April 21, 2020
I love, love, love this book. It is clever, intriguing and witty. The story is exciting, it had everything I like in a fantasy, but was still surprising and unpredictable! It sucked me right in. I was emotionally invested and really rooting for the characters. I got the audiobook, so I can also say the narrator did a great job and was a pleasure to listen to. After listening to both this book and the second in the series, I am really hoping there will be a third - and soon! I miss them....
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