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Arcane Inc. #1
Warlock for Hire
Not your average warlock
Meet Eddie Lancaster. That's me. I'm annoying, rude and I'm not sorry. I'm also a warlock. Not just any warlock. I'm a warlock for hire. Need magical assistance? I'm your guy. Whatever you need: spell, cures or potion, I can provide. For a price.
My life gets tad more difficult when one particular customer comes knocking. She’s sexy, mysterious and incredibly dangerous. I should have turned her away but I just can’t resist a good mystery. So I poked my nose where it doesn’t belong and landed myself in trouble with a malignant seer. I have to do as he says or people are going to die. I’m not really known for cooperation so I just have to find a way to kill him before he kills the people I care about.
But how do you beat a man who sees every move you make before you’ve even decided to make it?
I'm Eddie Lancaster and I'm totally f***ed.
Meet Eddie Lancaster. That's me. I'm annoying, rude and I'm not sorry. I'm also a warlock. Not just any warlock. I'm a warlock for hire. Need magical assistance? I'm your guy. Whatever you need: spell, cures or potion, I can provide. For a price.
My life gets tad more difficult when one particular customer comes knocking. She’s sexy, mysterious and incredibly dangerous. I should have turned her away but I just can’t resist a good mystery. So I poked my nose where it doesn’t belong and landed myself in trouble with a malignant seer. I have to do as he says or people are going to die. I’m not really known for cooperation so I just have to find a way to kill him before he kills the people I care about.
But how do you beat a man who sees every move you make before you’ve even decided to make it?
I'm Eddie Lancaster and I'm totally f***ed.
248 pages, Paperback
Published May 14, 2016
81 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Sean Stone
37 books40 followersSean is a writer and reader of all kinds of books, but he particularly enjoys books with 413 pages. He lives alone in Maidstone with his cats, Molly and Klaus, in an apartment that does not allow pets. He is also quite sure that one of them is trying to kill him. It’s a good thing he’s immortal.
He works as a lab technician by day and writes rather marvelous books by night. Sometimes he writes in the day too, but those books aren’t as good.
Sean Stone is a serious man.
He works as a lab technician by day and writes rather marvelous books by night. Sometimes he writes in the day too, but those books aren’t as good.
Sean Stone is a serious man.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 10, 2018
Warlock for Hire
Arcane Inc., Book 1
By: Sean Stone
Narrated by: Hannibal Hills
This is the first time I have listened to a book by this author but it will not be the last. I really enjoyed the wit, clever dialogue, plot, characters, and of course the use of magic! Our wizard ends up helping a gal in need against an evil billionaire who also can see the future. The billionaire wants to be invincible because he foresees his death. Great action and excitement to get to there! No romance! Yeah! A urban fantasy without a hook-up!
The narration was spot on too! Going for book two!
Arcane Inc., Book 1
By: Sean Stone
Narrated by: Hannibal Hills
This is the first time I have listened to a book by this author but it will not be the last. I really enjoyed the wit, clever dialogue, plot, characters, and of course the use of magic! Our wizard ends up helping a gal in need against an evil billionaire who also can see the future. The billionaire wants to be invincible because he foresees his death. Great action and excitement to get to there! No romance! Yeah! A urban fantasy without a hook-up!
The narration was spot on too! Going for book two!
February 15, 2018
My original Warlock for Hire audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Warlock for Hire by Sean Stone is the first book in a series called Arcane Inc. Eddie Lancaster is a warlock for hire and he is a self-professed and unapologetic rude and annoying guy. Unlike most with magical abilities, he sells his skills as a warlock to anyone willing to pay him. He doesn’t ask questions. However, when an attractive woman, Ashley Sheridan, comes to him with a request, he is intrigued. When she comes back, he clearly sees that she’s in trouble and he loves to solve mysteries. And so, despite her insistence that he not get involved, Eddie falls hard into the dangerous mystery and suddenly his, Ashley’s, and other peoples’ lives are at risk. He must figure out how to protect himself, Ashley and the people they love before his actions lead them to destruction.
This is generally a light and ultimately fun urban fantasy story. The characters are flat and Eddie is an immature guy, who is, as he himself professes, annoying and rude. But despite all of his failings, it is easy to root for his success even while rolling eyes at his behavior. Unfortunately, the main female character is generally a damsel in distress, which is frustrating. However, hints about the next books suggest that there will be other strong female characters as the series continues. The story is generally engaging as Eddie stumbles from one situation to the next and is balanced with action and his absurd inner monologue describing the world around him and explaining things through the fourth wall. Everything ties together neatly at the end of the story and leads into the next novel without a cliffhanger.
The narration by Hannibal Hills might well be why this book is so engaging. Without Hills' characterization of Eddie, Eddie may have easily just been too irritating and immature for me, personally. And so, I highly recommend choosing to listen to the audiobook over reading the written text, unless the reader typically enjoys characters like Eddie. The production quality was good. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a light and fast-paced urban fantasy novels.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
Warlock for Hire by Sean Stone is the first book in a series called Arcane Inc. Eddie Lancaster is a warlock for hire and he is a self-professed and unapologetic rude and annoying guy. Unlike most with magical abilities, he sells his skills as a warlock to anyone willing to pay him. He doesn’t ask questions. However, when an attractive woman, Ashley Sheridan, comes to him with a request, he is intrigued. When she comes back, he clearly sees that she’s in trouble and he loves to solve mysteries. And so, despite her insistence that he not get involved, Eddie falls hard into the dangerous mystery and suddenly his, Ashley’s, and other peoples’ lives are at risk. He must figure out how to protect himself, Ashley and the people they love before his actions lead them to destruction.
This is generally a light and ultimately fun urban fantasy story. The characters are flat and Eddie is an immature guy, who is, as he himself professes, annoying and rude. But despite all of his failings, it is easy to root for his success even while rolling eyes at his behavior. Unfortunately, the main female character is generally a damsel in distress, which is frustrating. However, hints about the next books suggest that there will be other strong female characters as the series continues. The story is generally engaging as Eddie stumbles from one situation to the next and is balanced with action and his absurd inner monologue describing the world around him and explaining things through the fourth wall. Everything ties together neatly at the end of the story and leads into the next novel without a cliffhanger.
The narration by Hannibal Hills might well be why this book is so engaging. Without Hills' characterization of Eddie, Eddie may have easily just been too irritating and immature for me, personally. And so, I highly recommend choosing to listen to the audiobook over reading the written text, unless the reader typically enjoys characters like Eddie. The production quality was good. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a light and fast-paced urban fantasy novels.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
February 1, 2017
I didn't make it very far in this book. When the blurb says that the main character is annoying and rude they mean it. This book uses a device that I hate which is where the author speaks directly to the reader. The narrative meanders (the warlock will lose his place, tell you, then say something like "well as I was saying before") and the voice that comes through is thoroughly obnoxious. He seems to like no one and nothing. Everything--even the reader--seems beneath him. I thought that the paranormal aspect to the story seemed interesting and I tried to push through for that, but I just grew to despise him so much that I finally gave up.
September 26, 2024
3,5*
Warlock for Hire by Sean Stone is a quick read. I quite enjoyed the tone and voice, despite Eddie being quite arrogant and full of himself. I did like his sass, and the fourth wall breaking worked well for me.
The male gaze he has was getting really annoying at times, with him telling us (paraphrased, not an exact quote but absolutely the gist of it) how every man hopes he'll get some "recompense" for helping out a stunning woman, and any woman knows and will have used their looks for their advantage, unless they are ugly. Oh and I know how those stunning women look obviously.
I could look past it, as it's his character, and it was little bits here and there, not all of the time. He also at least accepts a no as a valid answer, so it could be worse.
The female main character is mostly useless, outside of one single moment. She's just very pretty and quite the damsel in distress, despite not wanting help.
Overall this was a fun and easy read, which I breezed through.
Warlock for Hire by Sean Stone is a quick read. I quite enjoyed the tone and voice, despite Eddie being quite arrogant and full of himself. I did like his sass, and the fourth wall breaking worked well for me.
The male gaze he has was getting really annoying at times, with him telling us (paraphrased, not an exact quote but absolutely the gist of it) how every man hopes he'll get some "recompense" for helping out a stunning woman, and any woman knows and will have used their looks for their advantage, unless they are ugly. Oh and I know how those stunning women look obviously.
I could look past it, as it's his character, and it was little bits here and there, not all of the time. He also at least accepts a no as a valid answer, so it could be worse.
The female main character is mostly useless, outside of one single moment. She's just very pretty and quite the damsel in distress, despite not wanting help.
Overall this was a fun and easy read, which I breezed through.
June 9, 2017
The central concept is solid and intriguing even if the writing is understandably rough for a first book.
The problem isn't the barely present plot, but that the author writes his protagonists interactions with women like a horny 16 year old (a horny 16 year old who has a lot of friends who pretend they've had a lot of sex and have now pressurised this poor lad into thinking that this is how one would behave if one was not a virgin based on secondhand information).
The lead character has the charisma of a cardboard box with extra stickers. Annoying, intent on breaking the fourth wall with redundant rhetoric and just not very likeable.
No character progression for any of the cardboard cutouts surrounding this paper Tarzan. Interaction between characters is stiffer that the erection waffled on about on page 199 or so. Barely a plot.
My point being: “I felt my cheeks burn up and quickly covered my little fellow with my hands. Some men might have stood proudly and not covered up. I was not one of those men. I’ll be honest, what I have isn’t that impressive. I’m not saying it’s small, just that it’s not big. It’s average and it works. Oh, and trust me, I know how to use it. If the sounds my former lovers have made are any indication of my ability, then I am a master between the sheets. And no, I’m not exaggerating.”
Maybe its just new author pitfalls and the next will be better.
The problem isn't the barely present plot, but that the author writes his protagonists interactions with women like a horny 16 year old (a horny 16 year old who has a lot of friends who pretend they've had a lot of sex and have now pressurised this poor lad into thinking that this is how one would behave if one was not a virgin based on secondhand information).
The lead character has the charisma of a cardboard box with extra stickers. Annoying, intent on breaking the fourth wall with redundant rhetoric and just not very likeable.
No character progression for any of the cardboard cutouts surrounding this paper Tarzan. Interaction between characters is stiffer that the erection waffled on about on page 199 or so. Barely a plot.
My point being: “I felt my cheeks burn up and quickly covered my little fellow with my hands. Some men might have stood proudly and not covered up. I was not one of those men. I’ll be honest, what I have isn’t that impressive. I’m not saying it’s small, just that it’s not big. It’s average and it works. Oh, and trust me, I know how to use it. If the sounds my former lovers have made are any indication of my ability, then I am a master between the sheets. And no, I’m not exaggerating.”
Maybe its just new author pitfalls and the next will be better.
December 1, 2016
sardonic without any wit.
January 27, 2020
I'm actually listening to the compilation of the first three books in this series. But if I wait until I finish to review them I won't remember what I thought of each individual book. So, I'm going to review them as I go.
I thought this was basically ok. I love urban fantasy and Stone has set up an interesting magical world. I appreciated that Eddie isn't all alpha-male—willing to get beaten up, jokes about only having an average size penis, admitting he's not good at things. My primary problem (and the reason I say it's only ok in my opinion) is that I didn't much like him. His arrogance and casual objectification of women as humor annoyed me. I wasn't offended or in a feminist rage or anything, I just thought it was uninteresting and boring. Why would I want to read about a guy whose idea of humor is barely above that of the average yabbo? I avoid them in real life, I'm not interested in cluttering my reading with them.
Similarly, I disliked that while Eddie failed at things he was still presented as capable. The female lead however was useless, so weak that she couldn't even be let in on the plan she's instrumental to. She is little more than a foil for Eddie to shine before. That's a pretty big 'Meh' inducer for me.
All in all, I have the next two books (as I said, I'm listening to the compilation) and I'll read them. I liked Warlock for Hire enough to continue the series, but maybe not enough to be in a hurry about it. Maybe men will enjoy this more than I did. I kind of sense that's closer to the intended audience. Fair enough.
I thought this was basically ok. I love urban fantasy and Stone has set up an interesting magical world. I appreciated that Eddie isn't all alpha-male—willing to get beaten up, jokes about only having an average size penis, admitting he's not good at things. My primary problem (and the reason I say it's only ok in my opinion) is that I didn't much like him. His arrogance and casual objectification of women as humor annoyed me. I wasn't offended or in a feminist rage or anything, I just thought it was uninteresting and boring. Why would I want to read about a guy whose idea of humor is barely above that of the average yabbo? I avoid them in real life, I'm not interested in cluttering my reading with them.
Similarly, I disliked that while Eddie failed at things he was still presented as capable. The female lead however was useless, so weak that she couldn't even be let in on the plan she's instrumental to. She is little more than a foil for Eddie to shine before. That's a pretty big 'Meh' inducer for me.
All in all, I have the next two books (as I said, I'm listening to the compilation) and I'll read them. I liked Warlock for Hire enough to continue the series, but maybe not enough to be in a hurry about it. Maybe men will enjoy this more than I did. I kind of sense that's closer to the intended audience. Fair enough.
January 8, 2019
Let me be clear ... for about 3 chapters I kept thinking it was slow going. But then I realized what I was doing. Comparing it to Dresden the whole way. Once I understood and stopped doing that, I really enjoyed the book.
But I guess its something that will happen to everyone. Eddie Lancaster is a Warlock, Harry Dresden is a Wizard. Eddie is out there ready to be hired. Dresden is a Private Investigator among other things and always looking to be hired.
They both have unconventional ways of using their magic and trust me it makes both a lot of fun.
We meet Eddie and we get to see a somewhat typical day for him. Then we meet Ashley a witch whose in deep trouble. Her first request is to lose her magic. Then a bit later to have it returned. This intrigues Eddie and he gets into a lot of trouble with Ashley's tormentor. Killian Myers, who is a billionaire and quite crazy. He has requested Ashley to make him "Invincible". But seeing as Eddie has gotten involved, he now threatens Eddie as well as Ashley to complete that task. Can Eddie and Ashley do it while keeping their loved ones safe?
Good fun ... be warned Eddie is not exactly likable. He is rude and does not apologize for it. But he kinda grows on you.
But I guess its something that will happen to everyone. Eddie Lancaster is a Warlock, Harry Dresden is a Wizard. Eddie is out there ready to be hired. Dresden is a Private Investigator among other things and always looking to be hired.
They both have unconventional ways of using their magic and trust me it makes both a lot of fun.
We meet Eddie and we get to see a somewhat typical day for him. Then we meet Ashley a witch whose in deep trouble. Her first request is to lose her magic. Then a bit later to have it returned. This intrigues Eddie and he gets into a lot of trouble with Ashley's tormentor. Killian Myers, who is a billionaire and quite crazy. He has requested Ashley to make him "Invincible". But seeing as Eddie has gotten involved, he now threatens Eddie as well as Ashley to complete that task. Can Eddie and Ashley do it while keeping their loved ones safe?
Good fun ... be warned Eddie is not exactly likable. He is rude and does not apologize for it. But he kinda grows on you.
January 11, 2020
I liked this book! I liked Eddie. He's not a hero, he looks out for himself. Its refreshing. That there's not romance is refreshing. That he's interested in her and likes her for her looks is refreshing. It's an enjoyable book and not for everyone, but I liked it a ton.
July 22, 2019
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review and all opinions expressed herein are mine.
This is the first book in the Arcane Inc. series. It is a standalone story with no cliffhanger ending.
Here, Eddie Lancaster is a warlock and sells his services - he creates spells, sells magic, etc. He goes to seances/psychic readings, waits for the medium to begin the "act" before exposing the medium as a fraud and handing out his business cards. He lives in an apartment, with the landlady and her adult son living in the same building. He goes to the same pub and sits in the same booth. One day, a woman asks him to take all her magic [which he is happy to do as this is how Eddie gains magic strength] but she refuses to talk to him - piquing Eddie's curiosity. Then she returns a few days later wanting her magic back. Now she has Eddie completely enthralled and the more she doesn't want his help the more he wants to help her. She is reluctantly forced to accept Eddie's help and the adventure begins.
This story is told in a first person narrative - along with Eddie's snarky observations about the situation or characters and on occasion, Eddie speaks directly to the reader. Sometimes this has the feel of sitting down with Eddie and over a couple of beers, he tells you this story. There is a lot of humor in Eddie's sarcastic asides. Eddie is a character you either love or hate - I loved him and would be happy to sit down with him and hear his stories over a beer or two.
I listened to this book -- A huge part of my enjoyment of this book was the narration. Hannibal Hills is so fabulous as Eddie - really just perfect and completely engaging.
This is the first book in the Arcane Inc. series. It is a standalone story with no cliffhanger ending.
Here, Eddie Lancaster is a warlock and sells his services - he creates spells, sells magic, etc. He goes to seances/psychic readings, waits for the medium to begin the "act" before exposing the medium as a fraud and handing out his business cards. He lives in an apartment, with the landlady and her adult son living in the same building. He goes to the same pub and sits in the same booth. One day, a woman asks him to take all her magic [which he is happy to do as this is how Eddie gains magic strength] but she refuses to talk to him - piquing Eddie's curiosity. Then she returns a few days later wanting her magic back. Now she has Eddie completely enthralled and the more she doesn't want his help the more he wants to help her. She is reluctantly forced to accept Eddie's help and the adventure begins.
This story is told in a first person narrative - along with Eddie's snarky observations about the situation or characters and on occasion, Eddie speaks directly to the reader. Sometimes this has the feel of sitting down with Eddie and over a couple of beers, he tells you this story. There is a lot of humor in Eddie's sarcastic asides. Eddie is a character you either love or hate - I loved him and would be happy to sit down with him and hear his stories over a beer or two.
I listened to this book -- A huge part of my enjoyment of this book was the narration. Hannibal Hills is so fabulous as Eddie - really just perfect and completely engaging.
January 17, 2018
“Warlock for Hire” was EXCELLENT. The protagonist is a selfish, nosy, pervy, arrogant bastard but delightfully so, I fuckin love him. I feel like he SHOULD bother me as a character because he’s staring at the Female Companion’s™ boobs a lot but he instantly acknowledges how much of a shit he is for doing so in a very lighthearted manner and I just can’t get angry at him xD I also love how he keeps reminding the audience that he’s nosy and selfish (and then acting so, thank god)
My main issue with the book was that it kept explaining worldbuilding or backstory things, almost like this was written in parts and we needed a reminder. The other thing was that the writer obviously didn’t want to reveal some things early on and so he had Edward say “BUT I DON’T WANT TO TELL YOU NOW, GET OVER IT.” While the way it was handled was much smoother than in the cursed book JYD (”Dear diary blah blah. Oh no I have to go” <_<) I would have liked it ironed out a bit. Still, it was a very pleasant read and if it was edited better this would have easily been a5. As it stands now I will give it a 4.
My main issue with the book was that it kept explaining worldbuilding or backstory things, almost like this was written in parts and we needed a reminder. The other thing was that the writer obviously didn’t want to reveal some things early on and so he had Edward say “BUT I DON’T WANT TO TELL YOU NOW, GET OVER IT.” While the way it was handled was much smoother than in the cursed book JYD (”Dear diary blah blah. Oh no I have to go” <_<) I would have liked it ironed out a bit. Still, it was a very pleasant read and if it was edited better this would have easily been a5. As it stands now I will give it a 4.
November 18, 2016
There are two ways to approach this book. One is from the viewpoint of a fan of Jim Butcher's Dresden Files. The other would be from someone who hadn't read it.
If you've read the Dresden Files at all, you'll see a LOT of parallels between this book and that series. Modern day wizard? Check. Snarky main character? Check. Inner monologue? Check. It's hard to imagine this series being anything other than a new author's take on the Dresden Files.
If you've never read the Dresden Files, if a modern day wizard story is appealing, you may well like this book. The action moves forward at a good pace, and it's fairly well written. There were a few minor formatting problems and a few areas where more proofreading might have helped, but overall it was a good read. It promises to be the start of an interesting series.
If you've read the Dresden Files at all, you'll see a LOT of parallels between this book and that series. Modern day wizard? Check. Snarky main character? Check. Inner monologue? Check. It's hard to imagine this series being anything other than a new author's take on the Dresden Files.
If you've never read the Dresden Files, if a modern day wizard story is appealing, you may well like this book. The action moves forward at a good pace, and it's fairly well written. There were a few minor formatting problems and a few areas where more proofreading might have helped, but overall it was a good read. It promises to be the start of an interesting series.
April 7, 2017
There was a good story in here, somewhere.
However, the smug, arrogant narration and the breaking of the fourth wall were just intensely annoying. And honestly, if you're talking directly to readers but telling them they're stupid and don't matter, why are you writing? It only served to take me out of the story, which is never a good thing.
A shame, really.
However, the smug, arrogant narration and the breaking of the fourth wall were just intensely annoying. And honestly, if you're talking directly to readers but telling them they're stupid and don't matter, why are you writing? It only served to take me out of the story, which is never a good thing.
A shame, really.
May 27, 2017
This free book ,so can not bitch too much . Well Harry is loveable sarcastic asshole and you care for . The main character is just ass hole . Fine line between it . Just a mean spirited version of the Dresden File . Not my cup of tea
June 27, 2017
The idea is good, loved the ritual scene but couldn't get into the character, yes he was supposed to be arrogant and strongly but usually I like that. Also too much talking to the audience rather than enhancing the plot. As usual proof reading was poor in this kindle edition.
November 23, 2016
A bit too wannabe harry dresden. But i'll give the series another shot
December 6, 2018
there are enough asholes in the real world for me to put myself through the life of a fictional one.
December 10, 2017
He can do everything. For a charge.
Eddie isn’t just some warlock. As you already know, he’s a warlock for hire. Simple offers and an easy job don’t scare him. And then some sexy trouble enters his life. Or, better to say, he intrudes into her life. All good things, all his goals, and even moves are already known by someone else. So, what you’ll do in such a case: drop it off and run or try to save lives?
And here we have a cool story by Sean Stone. This isn’t about boring running in circles and trying to save every single person in a world. Eddie is self-confident, he is a real man, and no one, even one of the most powerful man, can turn him into a chicken. Eddie steps into the dangerous game.
What makes this book worth spending time on it?
1 – All set in our time and world. So, this is for urban fantasy lovers. Like City of Bones? Don’t miss this one!
2 – Nice characters. Not that they are pretty. Oh, no… They are rude, have plenty of unexpected sides, problems and abilities. But they are alive and to say the truth I can’t imagine somebody sweet in this setting. Everybody right on their places. Communications and conversations are perfect!
3 – Eddie. He can be irritative, cynical, silly, but he’s a real man. He promised – he has done. He is the center of the story and exactly through him the story was made so cool.
4 – Storyline. All this magic stuff was so accurate integrated into a surrounding world that if it had happened you wouldn’t have noticed anything. During the quest, Eddie meets different people, visits different places, and still, he’s in the real world that doesn’t disappear just because of some warlock. The story takes us at the edge. It has a high dynamic, everything happens quickly and there's no time to sit and solve some clues. It also plays some nerve when getting more acquainted with heroes. Here Sherlock Holmes (with Robert Downey Jr.) and The Dresden Files meet.
5 – Narrated by: Han Hills. This man made an excellent work! Due to his narration, this story is marvelous.
Don't take it close to the heart. Eddie is a warlock. And he's selfish.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Eddie isn’t just some warlock. As you already know, he’s a warlock for hire. Simple offers and an easy job don’t scare him. And then some sexy trouble enters his life. Or, better to say, he intrudes into her life. All good things, all his goals, and even moves are already known by someone else. So, what you’ll do in such a case: drop it off and run or try to save lives?
And here we have a cool story by Sean Stone. This isn’t about boring running in circles and trying to save every single person in a world. Eddie is self-confident, he is a real man, and no one, even one of the most powerful man, can turn him into a chicken. Eddie steps into the dangerous game.
What makes this book worth spending time on it?
1 – All set in our time and world. So, this is for urban fantasy lovers. Like City of Bones? Don’t miss this one!
2 – Nice characters. Not that they are pretty. Oh, no… They are rude, have plenty of unexpected sides, problems and abilities. But they are alive and to say the truth I can’t imagine somebody sweet in this setting. Everybody right on their places. Communications and conversations are perfect!
3 – Eddie. He can be irritative, cynical, silly, but he’s a real man. He promised – he has done. He is the center of the story and exactly through him the story was made so cool.
4 – Storyline. All this magic stuff was so accurate integrated into a surrounding world that if it had happened you wouldn’t have noticed anything. During the quest, Eddie meets different people, visits different places, and still, he’s in the real world that doesn’t disappear just because of some warlock. The story takes us at the edge. It has a high dynamic, everything happens quickly and there's no time to sit and solve some clues. It also plays some nerve when getting more acquainted with heroes. Here Sherlock Holmes (with Robert Downey Jr.) and The Dresden Files meet.
5 – Narrated by: Han Hills. This man made an excellent work! Due to his narration, this story is marvelous.
Don't take it close to the heart. Eddie is a warlock. And he's selfish.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 4, 2024
Warlock for higher by Sean Stone is the first book in the arcane ink series. They say curiosity killed the cat but it almost kills the warlock. Eddie Lancaster is a warlock in a world where most people either don’t believe or don’t know they exist but for those who do they may find their self in need of his services like Ashley did. She is a buxom blonde who wants her magic taken away something Eddie has no problem doing but he becomes curious she’s not the normal age to want it done not to mention she’s fearful when she comes to ask for his services and this causes Eddie to become nosy. When Eddie learns what he is up against everyone tries to warn him and even the fact Ashley violently tells him and tries to show him thatt she doesn’t want his help Eddie being Eddie he persists . Eddie is a snarky quick witted warlock who may have just bitten off more than he can chew. Eddie blames himself for the death of his own parents and so when he learns this artificially empowered magician threatened Ashley and her mother despite claiming he doesn’t care he does everything in his power to help them. It seems the only thing this psychic magician Killian theaters is the man with the hourglass tattoo who is he? This book was so good it was smart witty and really had my heart palpitating towards the end not to mention I really like the fact Ashley was not above punching Eddie in the face when she wasn’t happy with him.. It’s not all laughs though there are some really heartwarming moments in the book and although Eddie tries to play it off there still there and it all makes for one great read and I will definitely be trying to get my hands on the next Eddie Lancaster book. I listen to the audio which was narrated by Hannibal Hill, Who never ceases to amaze me with his range of performance as he can do from snarky and funny twisted and deranged I cannot get enough of his narration and looks so forward to the new books he puts out. I love him doing Eddie‘s voice and totally recommend this to anyone who loves magician fairies fayes witches ETC with the sarcastic warlock then you definitely love this book as much as I did. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
March 23, 2018
I stumbled upon this series while going through several emails offering discounted and/or free ebooks. It was a four book series from a new author (Sean Stone) that I hadn't read before and it looked interesting. As I prefer to have a physical copy of a book in my hand, I was fortunate enough to find that the individual books were available. So, loving the premise - having quite a few other series in the same genre - I dove in head first and ordered the first book - WARLOCK FOR HIRE.
The lead character is Eddie Lancaster, described as a "natural" warlock making a living by performing for-hire magical jobs as needed. Part of the running theme of the first book is that he is frequently called upon to remove magical power/potential from a client who finds that untrained powers disrupt their lives and tend to make them social outcasts.
This first story finds Eddie performing one of these typical removals ... BUT ... things get complicated as the client then returns and asks for her powers to be restored. Something NOT typical in Eddie's day-to-day. The story takes off running as the simplest of actions become the first steps into a potential life and death struggle that looks to have no way of realizing a happy ending.
Sean Stone in this first book in the series shows a nice ability to generate and develop good characters and dramatic situations that drive the story forward towards its final confrontation.
The book is written in the first person and interestingly the character breaks the fourth wall many times as he talks directly to the reader in many instances. At first, that seemed a little over the top but, as you make your way through the story, it becomes more natural and even a little charming.
Overall, the book was a fairly fun read, pulling you from page to page and establishing multiple characters that will be the cast in future entries in the series.
And yes, I will be buying the next book in the series. Definitely have to read more in the world of Eddie Lancaster.
The lead character is Eddie Lancaster, described as a "natural" warlock making a living by performing for-hire magical jobs as needed. Part of the running theme of the first book is that he is frequently called upon to remove magical power/potential from a client who finds that untrained powers disrupt their lives and tend to make them social outcasts.
This first story finds Eddie performing one of these typical removals ... BUT ... things get complicated as the client then returns and asks for her powers to be restored. Something NOT typical in Eddie's day-to-day. The story takes off running as the simplest of actions become the first steps into a potential life and death struggle that looks to have no way of realizing a happy ending.
Sean Stone in this first book in the series shows a nice ability to generate and develop good characters and dramatic situations that drive the story forward towards its final confrontation.
The book is written in the first person and interestingly the character breaks the fourth wall many times as he talks directly to the reader in many instances. At first, that seemed a little over the top but, as you make your way through the story, it becomes more natural and even a little charming.
Overall, the book was a fairly fun read, pulling you from page to page and establishing multiple characters that will be the cast in future entries in the series.
And yes, I will be buying the next book in the series. Definitely have to read more in the world of Eddie Lancaster.
January 3, 2020
Showdown at the river...
Warlock for Hire (Arcane Inc., Book 1) by Sean Stone and narrated by Hannibal Hills held my interest and I recommend if you’re looking for something new in the genre. 4 ½ stars all around.
What’s it about? Eddie, a warlock who does pretty much anything for the right amount of money, gets involved with a client named Ashley, who needs help. Only she doesn’t want his help at first, but he butts in anyways. Eventually they form a friendship (of sorts) to take down Killian, a ruthless leader and seer. How do you take down a guy who can see the future and has his hands in everything? There is an underlying back story that helped keep it interesting and, I assume, will serve a purpose in future books.
The narrator, Hannibal Hills, did a wonderful job voicing Eddie. If Hannibal hadn't narrated Eddie so well, I don't think I'd be giving such a good review. He def made the character not annoying- can’t say I’d feel the same if I read the book, so do yourself a favor and listen to it.
“The point is, don’t waste time. We all have a small amount of time. We shouldn’t waste it. Spend your time doing the things you love. Things that make you happy. Don’t waste time worrying about things that might or might not happen. Just get on with your life. Cheesy I know, but in your case, it serves a valuable lesson.”
“I wanted to drag it out for as long as possible, but I’m smart enough to know not to tempt fate. It happens countless times in films; whoever has the upper hand takes their time about things and the tables quickly get turned.”
Overall, I enjoyed and will be checking out the next in the series.
Parental guidance/trigger warnings: kidnapping, drugging, death, weapons (gun, knives). Language used: Fx24, Sx11.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
Warlock for Hire (Arcane Inc., Book 1) by Sean Stone and narrated by Hannibal Hills held my interest and I recommend if you’re looking for something new in the genre. 4 ½ stars all around.
What’s it about? Eddie, a warlock who does pretty much anything for the right amount of money, gets involved with a client named Ashley, who needs help. Only she doesn’t want his help at first, but he butts in anyways. Eventually they form a friendship (of sorts) to take down Killian, a ruthless leader and seer. How do you take down a guy who can see the future and has his hands in everything? There is an underlying back story that helped keep it interesting and, I assume, will serve a purpose in future books.
The narrator, Hannibal Hills, did a wonderful job voicing Eddie. If Hannibal hadn't narrated Eddie so well, I don't think I'd be giving such a good review. He def made the character not annoying- can’t say I’d feel the same if I read the book, so do yourself a favor and listen to it.
“The point is, don’t waste time. We all have a small amount of time. We shouldn’t waste it. Spend your time doing the things you love. Things that make you happy. Don’t waste time worrying about things that might or might not happen. Just get on with your life. Cheesy I know, but in your case, it serves a valuable lesson.”
“I wanted to drag it out for as long as possible, but I’m smart enough to know not to tempt fate. It happens countless times in films; whoever has the upper hand takes their time about things and the tables quickly get turned.”
Overall, I enjoyed and will be checking out the next in the series.
Parental guidance/trigger warnings: kidnapping, drugging, death, weapons (gun, knives). Language used: Fx24, Sx11.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
December 16, 2017
At first glance this books seems like it is going to be along similar lines to the Dresden Files, but there are a number of ways that it stands out from that series and not all of them are good.
The setting for these books being a modern Britain makes a change both for the location and the avoidance of the more common clichés when using a British setting and the supporting cast are well defined and brought to life by the author and the narrator. This book has clear rules for its system of magic and for the supernatural that are distinctive enough as well.
These are all positive ways in which this book stands out from other urban fantasy, but things are not entirely positive when it comes to the main character, he is interesting enough on the whole. However, there can be a thin line between snarky and merely annoying and in the case of the main character, he ends up on the annoying side of the line rather more often than necessary. This impression of the character is probably not helped by the author's decision to go with 4th wall breaking and have him talk to the listener directly, rather than sticking with a less overt internal monologue, which wouldn't tend to take you out of the moment as much.
The narrator gives a strong performance, both in bringing the main character to life and with helping to provide distinct characters for all of the supporting cast and I would be happy to listen to another book narrated by him in the future.
Overall, I found this to be an enjoyable book and will look forward to any future ones in the same series as the positives easily outweighed the negatives, that were mostly stylistic annoyances rather than fundamental flaws.
[I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
The setting for these books being a modern Britain makes a change both for the location and the avoidance of the more common clichés when using a British setting and the supporting cast are well defined and brought to life by the author and the narrator. This book has clear rules for its system of magic and for the supernatural that are distinctive enough as well.
These are all positive ways in which this book stands out from other urban fantasy, but things are not entirely positive when it comes to the main character, he is interesting enough on the whole. However, there can be a thin line between snarky and merely annoying and in the case of the main character, he ends up on the annoying side of the line rather more often than necessary. This impression of the character is probably not helped by the author's decision to go with 4th wall breaking and have him talk to the listener directly, rather than sticking with a less overt internal monologue, which wouldn't tend to take you out of the moment as much.
The narrator gives a strong performance, both in bringing the main character to life and with helping to provide distinct characters for all of the supporting cast and I would be happy to listen to another book narrated by him in the future.
Overall, I found this to be an enjoyable book and will look forward to any future ones in the same series as the positives easily outweighed the negatives, that were mostly stylistic annoyances rather than fundamental flaws.
[I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
September 27, 2017
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review and for signing up for the author's newsletter.
My copy was actually labelled as the free edition so there might be some slight differences.
A modern day wizard is just trying to make ends meet when one of his customers gets his curiousity up. But sticking his nose into her problems could cause his world to come crashing down around him.
Everyone thinks Harry Dresden when you say modern day wizard. Rightly so, it is a great series. There are some similarities but as you get reading, you will see more differences. Everything from the take on magic to attitude. Harry is a good guy in all the ways. Eddie Lancaster is not. He isn't a hero. He isn't even very nice. His attitude is more like Gregory House from the TV show House than anything else. He helps the pretty girl because she is a pretty girl. He expects to be paid for his magic. He would rather avoid a fight than play hero.
Eddie also breaks the so-called fourth wall throughout the book. In other words, he talks directly to the reader. Some people find this annoying but it is more like Eddie is telling you the story of what happened instead of you being there when it happened. It isn't like Deadpool when he stops the current action and talks directly to the reader. Of course, this gives you a pretty big clue that Eddie is going to make it throught the whole adventure (unless he is talking to you from beyond the grave-oooOOOooo) (sorry about that).
I found the story to be fun and filled with plenty of action and humor. It isn't Harry Dresden but do you really want all modern day wizards to be Harry?
My copy was actually labelled as the free edition so there might be some slight differences.
A modern day wizard is just trying to make ends meet when one of his customers gets his curiousity up. But sticking his nose into her problems could cause his world to come crashing down around him.
Everyone thinks Harry Dresden when you say modern day wizard. Rightly so, it is a great series. There are some similarities but as you get reading, you will see more differences. Everything from the take on magic to attitude. Harry is a good guy in all the ways. Eddie Lancaster is not. He isn't a hero. He isn't even very nice. His attitude is more like Gregory House from the TV show House than anything else. He helps the pretty girl because she is a pretty girl. He expects to be paid for his magic. He would rather avoid a fight than play hero.
Eddie also breaks the so-called fourth wall throughout the book. In other words, he talks directly to the reader. Some people find this annoying but it is more like Eddie is telling you the story of what happened instead of you being there when it happened. It isn't like Deadpool when he stops the current action and talks directly to the reader. Of course, this gives you a pretty big clue that Eddie is going to make it throught the whole adventure (unless he is talking to you from beyond the grave-oooOOOooo) (sorry about that).
I found the story to be fun and filled with plenty of action and humor. It isn't Harry Dresden but do you really want all modern day wizards to be Harry?
April 29, 2019
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
Warlock for Hire is the first in an Urban Fantasy series by Sean Stone. It's short by the standards of the genre but it does pack quite a bit into its brief run time.
The voice of the first person narrator was full of personality, asides and even some meta humor. The narrator Hannibal Hills did an amazing job bringing the voice to life and his delightful accent only made it more enjoyable. this cannot be stated enough - Hannibal did an excellent job and I would be eager to hear other books he narrates.
The main character while interesting did little to make the audience sympathize with him. He is greedy, petty, a bit of a bully, randy and rude. This is offset by his humor but if there is anything that could have used more polishing it would have been doing a little more to humanize him. He is the protagonist because the book is from his POV. He might be at the beginning of a redemptive arc - but that is not evident with this volume.
It was interesting and entertaining with the ending promising to delve more into his past as well as making the stakes much more personal in the sequel.
Disclaimer: He is also very foul mouthed. If that's not a deal breaker for you then I'd give it a try. It was enough to detract from my enjoyment
Warlock for Hire is the first in an Urban Fantasy series by Sean Stone. It's short by the standards of the genre but it does pack quite a bit into its brief run time.
The voice of the first person narrator was full of personality, asides and even some meta humor. The narrator Hannibal Hills did an amazing job bringing the voice to life and his delightful accent only made it more enjoyable. this cannot be stated enough - Hannibal did an excellent job and I would be eager to hear other books he narrates.
The main character while interesting did little to make the audience sympathize with him. He is greedy, petty, a bit of a bully, randy and rude. This is offset by his humor but if there is anything that could have used more polishing it would have been doing a little more to humanize him. He is the protagonist because the book is from his POV. He might be at the beginning of a redemptive arc - but that is not evident with this volume.
It was interesting and entertaining with the ending promising to delve more into his past as well as making the stakes much more personal in the sequel.
Disclaimer: He is also very foul mouthed. If that's not a deal breaker for you then I'd give it a try. It was enough to detract from my enjoyment
December 4, 2017
In modern Britain, life is pretty normal unless you count the supernatural and magic present.
Its where we begin our story with a Natural warlock called Eddie making a living by selling his powers to those in need for a price.
Eddie is very much accepting of his place and role he plays in life and as such he generally ambles through life until a beautiful woman with some intriguing issues comes to him.
So starts a pleasant adventure which although hardly fast paced matches Eddie very well and this plays out for a usual hero who tries to save the day if not in an wholly heroical manner.
I think this story will either be a " meh " or a " you know i quite enjoyed it" and will depend on the person.
For me i found it a nice pleasant story for a initial series and i would carry on finding out more about our Eddie.
Narration by Hans Hill is very English and measured but matches the character well i find. He seems to perform other characters quite well with a somewhat dry wit and aplomb which is great for picturing Eddie.
Its where we begin our story with a Natural warlock called Eddie making a living by selling his powers to those in need for a price.
Eddie is very much accepting of his place and role he plays in life and as such he generally ambles through life until a beautiful woman with some intriguing issues comes to him.
So starts a pleasant adventure which although hardly fast paced matches Eddie very well and this plays out for a usual hero who tries to save the day if not in an wholly heroical manner.
I think this story will either be a " meh " or a " you know i quite enjoyed it" and will depend on the person.
For me i found it a nice pleasant story for a initial series and i would carry on finding out more about our Eddie.
Narration by Hans Hill is very English and measured but matches the character well i find. He seems to perform other characters quite well with a somewhat dry wit and aplomb which is great for picturing Eddie.
January 30, 2018
You have to love a book that tells you upfront, the main character is a bit of a prick. He’s rude, obnoxious, a bit pretentious, and unapologetic. He, my dear friends, is Eddie Lancaster… and he’s in a bit of a pickle! Unfortunately for Eddie, he’s about to find out why all those character traits listed above is starting to be his downfall.
He meets Ashley Sheridan, who is in serious need of his services and is in trouble… Killian Myers, an extremely powerful man, wants her to make him invincible. She can’t do it alone. But what can you do when the one man you don’t want to help, can see your every move?
This was a fast-paced story, with action and humor on almost every page. The writing was great, but the narration was better. The narrator, Hans Hill, adds a personality to each character and brings them to life. This had just the right amount of humor and sarcasm, without it being overbearing and annoying. I found myself laughing out loud and thoroughly enjoying this story.
He meets Ashley Sheridan, who is in serious need of his services and is in trouble… Killian Myers, an extremely powerful man, wants her to make him invincible. She can’t do it alone. But what can you do when the one man you don’t want to help, can see your every move?
This was a fast-paced story, with action and humor on almost every page. The writing was great, but the narration was better. The narrator, Hans Hill, adds a personality to each character and brings them to life. This had just the right amount of humor and sarcasm, without it being overbearing and annoying. I found myself laughing out loud and thoroughly enjoying this story.
September 26, 2017
Absolutely brilliant, I really enjoyed this story, Eddie Lancaster is a natural born warlock that hires out his services but when Ashley Sheridan comes to him he becomes more than a little intrigued by what has caused her to seek out his services and so starts an adventure of potions, spells and death threats, just who is Killian Myers and will Eddie survive finding out ?
I loved the way this book is written, Eddie narrating his own story, his thick skinned down to earth attitude infuses this story with some humour and sarcasm that makes it not only a great read but fantastic to listen to as an audiobook.
I loved the way this book is written, Eddie narrating his own story, his thick skinned down to earth attitude infuses this story with some humour and sarcasm that makes it not only a great read but fantastic to listen to as an audiobook.
May 31, 2019
Eddie Lancaster is a natural warlock. He sucks the power from other magic users, tries his hand a potion or two, and generally works for the highest bidder. Everyone has to make a living, right?
The world build is solid, the action well-paced, and the plot an interesting bit of unique. Eddie is a bit of a jerk, and he pays for it, which is amusing. What I didn't care for was the character talking directly to the reader. This was an audio listen for me, so I was hearing the narrator - awesome, by the way - address me as I tried to stay in the tone of the story. Not my favorite device. Still, worth a listen. I will be moving on to book two.
The world build is solid, the action well-paced, and the plot an interesting bit of unique. Eddie is a bit of a jerk, and he pays for it, which is amusing. What I didn't care for was the character talking directly to the reader. This was an audio listen for me, so I was hearing the narrator - awesome, by the way - address me as I tried to stay in the tone of the story. Not my favorite device. Still, worth a listen. I will be moving on to book two.
November 30, 2017
Audiobook review: Eddie is a sardonic and arrogant leading character. The story though good needed to explain less and just have the characters do. Plenty of action to keep my wayward attention. I found too many similarities with Jim Butcher’s character, Harry Dresden, to rate the story higher than three stars. The narrator did a good job but was a bit over the top with voice inflections at times. I was given a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
October 21, 2018
I am a huge fan of Harry Dresden. I know Harry well and am quite fond of him - kind of like a favorite nephew. I just met Eddie Lancaster, but I have a feeling that I will grow fond of him as well. Eddie is a bit rough around the edges and his magical talent is not as strong as Harry’s - but Harry was not as powerful in the early books either. Eddie is tough, as an orphan he has had to be... but his heart is good. I’m looking forward to watching him come into his own.
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