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Shifting Problems
A magical bloodline has awakened.
Demonic underground dwellers are getting restless. Magic is sweeping the streets of Pittsburgh. Dark magic.
Only one man can save the citizens from mythical bloodthirsty monsters.
Mike Merlino, a freelance Supernatural Detective with the potential to become a powerful wizard, but he just started his training.
Gruesome shifter murders randomly spread through the city.
Nobody is safe, and Mike decides to investigate.
The twenty-three-year-old soon finds his life in danger, brawling against demons from the underworld known as The Red Cavern.
Can he overcome an invisible manticore, a werelion, and a talented succubus as well as the Pittsburgh Police, and his former allies to prevent a catastrophic event that could destroy the world?
Demonic underground dwellers are getting restless. Magic is sweeping the streets of Pittsburgh. Dark magic.
Only one man can save the citizens from mythical bloodthirsty monsters.
Mike Merlino, a freelance Supernatural Detective with the potential to become a powerful wizard, but he just started his training.
Gruesome shifter murders randomly spread through the city.
Nobody is safe, and Mike decides to investigate.
The twenty-three-year-old soon finds his life in danger, brawling against demons from the underworld known as The Red Cavern.
Can he overcome an invisible manticore, a werelion, and a talented succubus as well as the Pittsburgh Police, and his former allies to prevent a catastrophic event that could destroy the world?
- GenresMagic
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2018
278 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Jason Paul Rice
18 books241 followersJason Paul Rice enjoyed reading books from a young age. That turned into story telling which later spurred a love of writing . One day while hiking in the woods he found an extremely old chest that contained books, records and maps that told an unbelievable story of a long-forgotten land. Jason studied these materials and created a fantasy world centered around the Kingdom of Donegal to escape everyday life. Now he humbly invites you to see that vision in his first book TWO HEADS TWO SPIKES. Jason wants to take you on a mental vacation to a land of honor and intrigue. He will whisk you off to a place of murder and manipulation that somehow escaped the history books. Come along for the wild ride, if you dare.
To view the latest giveaway rules on mobile, follow this: https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
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To view the latest giveaway rules on mobile, follow this: https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
Desktop users go to: http://twoheadstwospikes.wix.com/jaso...
Good luck to all!
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 20, 2018
I just couldn't keep reading this.
I don't know if the author has ADD or if the character was supposed to have ADD or what, but I couldn't deal with the manic style of the writing.
What really killed it for me though was the nonsensical plot. I would say the below contains spoilers, but all of this nonsense is from the first few chapters.
This guy is a brand new Wizard, who keeps referencing things that he has done in the past while telling us he is a newbie who has no experience. He works for the police and has done so for a long time, but he is a newbie.
The first "person of interest" they talk to is shady as all hell and neither he nor the officer he is working with say anything about it. The officer seems completely oblivious while he suspects her and says nothing. Their entire encounter boils down to "Your boyfriend is suspected of being involved in a murder." She freaks out in a completely over-the-top way. They apologize and leave.
He uses magic to spot evidence being disposed of and instead of telling the police officer about it decides to come back later and take it. Why do the police work with him again? He contributed nothing. When he goes back, the shady woman catches & chases him off with a gun while threatening to shoot him if she sees him again. Naturally, he takes an uber around the block and goes back to get the thing. Which for some stupid reason is still just sitting there in the backyard?! WTF?!
I just can't.
I don't know if the author has ADD or if the character was supposed to have ADD or what, but I couldn't deal with the manic style of the writing.
What really killed it for me though was the nonsensical plot. I would say the below contains spoilers, but all of this nonsense is from the first few chapters.
This guy is a brand new Wizard, who keeps referencing things that he has done in the past while telling us he is a newbie who has no experience. He works for the police and has done so for a long time, but he is a newbie.
The first "person of interest" they talk to is shady as all hell and neither he nor the officer he is working with say anything about it. The officer seems completely oblivious while he suspects her and says nothing. Their entire encounter boils down to "Your boyfriend is suspected of being involved in a murder." She freaks out in a completely over-the-top way. They apologize and leave.
He uses magic to spot evidence being disposed of and instead of telling the police officer about it decides to come back later and take it. Why do the police work with him again? He contributed nothing. When he goes back, the shady woman catches & chases him off with a gun while threatening to shoot him if she sees him again. Naturally, he takes an uber around the block and goes back to get the thing. Which for some stupid reason is still just sitting there in the backyard?! WTF?!
I just can't.
April 27, 2018
Really bad
I read the whole book, but it was hard. The writer sounds like he has never met a woman or been attracted to one before. Conversation is awkward. Narration is awkward. Fight scenes felt like they were there just to cause drama, not progress the story. Repetitive. Leading male is "chivalrous" but felt more chauvinistic to me. Please do not put "ha.ha." in a sentence for someone legit laughing... So bad. The world wasn't properly fleshed out.
I read the whole book, but it was hard. The writer sounds like he has never met a woman or been attracted to one before. Conversation is awkward. Narration is awkward. Fight scenes felt like they were there just to cause drama, not progress the story. Repetitive. Leading male is "chivalrous" but felt more chauvinistic to me. Please do not put "ha.ha." in a sentence for someone legit laughing... So bad. The world wasn't properly fleshed out.
December 9, 2017
Bad book
Not very interesting or entertaining,I! I like this type of book but the main character was a wizard but he let everyone run him over,? Waste of my time trying to read this
Not very interesting or entertaining,I! I like this type of book but the main character was a wizard but he let everyone run him over,? Waste of my time trying to read this
August 3, 2018
Nope
This is a little too purple for me. I made it about five pages. I really dislike abandonment issues as the driver in a romance novel, I'm certainly not going to allow them in my gritty urban fantasy.
This is a little too purple for me. I made it about five pages. I really dislike abandonment issues as the driver in a romance novel, I'm certainly not going to allow them in my gritty urban fantasy.
January 31, 2018
A poor attempt at imitating Jim Butcher.
August 13, 2018
This started out ok. But they lost me with the violence and some grossness. And it was a downer.
December 8, 2017
Great beginning for a new series!
Michael Merino is a cancer survivor and newly-awakened wizard and detective. His character's situation is reminiscent of Jim Butcher's Dresden, but Michael Merino stands on his own.
Mike's supernatural recovery from cancer has made him grateful and slightly guilty for being alive and whole. While sarcastic and snarky with nearly everyone around him, he is simultaneously a dedicated attendant at meetings for cancer patients and survivors at his neighborhood community center, sharing moral support and encouragement to the patients there.
I like Mike's ability to think on his feet and his struggle to do what's right with the minuscule amounts of information provided (the Occult Detective position is newly-minted and has a very long way to go). Mike has to walk a thin line between doing what is necessary for the non-magical world while dealing with the very different set of rules and expectations of the supernatural, and it's a dangerous dance.
Shifting Problems is a terrific intro to a new character & hopefully new series of adventures, but I would suggest 18+ for some violence and adult content. I received a complimentary ARC copy for an honest review, and am eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Mike Merino's adventures.
Michael Merino is a cancer survivor and newly-awakened wizard and detective. His character's situation is reminiscent of Jim Butcher's Dresden, but Michael Merino stands on his own.
Mike's supernatural recovery from cancer has made him grateful and slightly guilty for being alive and whole. While sarcastic and snarky with nearly everyone around him, he is simultaneously a dedicated attendant at meetings for cancer patients and survivors at his neighborhood community center, sharing moral support and encouragement to the patients there.
I like Mike's ability to think on his feet and his struggle to do what's right with the minuscule amounts of information provided (the Occult Detective position is newly-minted and has a very long way to go). Mike has to walk a thin line between doing what is necessary for the non-magical world while dealing with the very different set of rules and expectations of the supernatural, and it's a dangerous dance.
Shifting Problems is a terrific intro to a new character & hopefully new series of adventures, but I would suggest 18+ for some violence and adult content. I received a complimentary ARC copy for an honest review, and am eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Mike Merino's adventures.
November 27, 2018
Almost average
DNF. I got to the 74% mark or so and lost interest. I almost gave this 2 stars despite the lackluster writing but the MC's black friend refers to the MC as "young buck" every time they meet. It was jarring the first and every time. It's just not a good way to portray a black man in his sixties unless the character is supposed to be a Nawlins jazz player and it still is iffy. Even TV has accepted that black people speak standard English.
The MC has a weird connection to the Celtic pantheon. The book didn't make the MC feel real and his demon fighting seemed slick and weak, simultaneously. The writer just missed the mark on character emotions for me and the interaction between the demons and the Celtic gods lost me somewhere. Another reader might be able to follow it more easily but as I said, I wasn't able to do so.
DNF. I got to the 74% mark or so and lost interest. I almost gave this 2 stars despite the lackluster writing but the MC's black friend refers to the MC as "young buck" every time they meet. It was jarring the first and every time. It's just not a good way to portray a black man in his sixties unless the character is supposed to be a Nawlins jazz player and it still is iffy. Even TV has accepted that black people speak standard English.
The MC has a weird connection to the Celtic pantheon. The book didn't make the MC feel real and his demon fighting seemed slick and weak, simultaneously. The writer just missed the mark on character emotions for me and the interaction between the demons and the Celtic gods lost me somewhere. Another reader might be able to follow it more easily but as I said, I wasn't able to do so.
December 4, 2017
Shifting Problems is the first book in the Bloodline Awakened Supernatural Thriller series. While you can read this as a stand-alone, it is open-ended for future books. There is violence and adult content so 18+.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that all info here. The author did a good job of explaining what is going on and describing the characters and the setting of the story. Even though I’m not a fan of the main character Merino, he is perfect and appropriate for that role in the story. I look forward to reading future books in this series.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that all info here. The author did a good job of explaining what is going on and describing the characters and the setting of the story. Even though I’m not a fan of the main character Merino, he is perfect and appropriate for that role in the story. I look forward to reading future books in this series.
December 12, 2017
If you are a Dresden fan you have to read this book.
I am a big fan of Dresden and I know that I would like this character from the first page and it is not easy for me to say that.
I read part of the story of this Authors book which is titled Graveyard Uprisings: Bloodline Awakened, Supernatural Thriller Series,, Book 2. I can hardly wait for that book when it comes out on January 8, 2018.
I like the characters that Mike interacts with and there are some that I did not like.
I think you will like the book as much as I did.
I am a big fan of Dresden and I know that I would like this character from the first page and it is not easy for me to say that.
I read part of the story of this Authors book which is titled Graveyard Uprisings: Bloodline Awakened, Supernatural Thriller Series,, Book 2. I can hardly wait for that book when it comes out on January 8, 2018.
I like the characters that Mike interacts with and there are some that I did not like.
I think you will like the book as much as I did.
December 11, 2017
One of Jason's BEST!
I love books about wizards and warlocks, and Merlino is great. I love all of the characters, and setting in the story. I received Shifting Problems,free, for an honest review, then bought it to add to my collection. I hope people will read it, because it's the first book in a new series by Jason Paul Rice, and all of his books are well written and worth a read. Please leave a review also because they help expand the author's readership as well as giving feedback to the author.
I love books about wizards and warlocks, and Merlino is great. I love all of the characters, and setting in the story. I received Shifting Problems,free, for an honest review, then bought it to add to my collection. I hope people will read it, because it's the first book in a new series by Jason Paul Rice, and all of his books are well written and worth a read. Please leave a review also because they help expand the author's readership as well as giving feedback to the author.
April 7, 2018
I thought this was a great start to the series. It had lots of action and we really got to know the main character Mike Merlino. He is a newbie wizard who just started training so he has no clue what he is doing which makes for some funny and dangerous situations. As a New Jersey native I absolutely loved the Jersey Devil in this story - Mike refers to him as J.D which cracks me up. I will definitely be continuing this series!
December 4, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this starter novel for this new series. It is gritty, dark, and fun. I look forward to continuing this tale of a sarcastic, sometimes childish, supernatural wizard detective. Following him on his path to becoming a great wizard in all his adventures and training, trying to help protect and save the world from the "underworld".
December 11, 2017
Well, if this wasn't a nice surprise! All that blood and gore and pain somehow come across as bearable due to the laid-back writing style, which I found interesting. Also, the hero is kind of humble and endearing, and the way he was a hair-breadth away from losing a few times made the book believable.
I enjoyed reading this book.
I enjoyed reading this book.
December 24, 2017
So this got kinda gory pretty quickly!
Was a great beginning for a series. A demon trying to frame the main character to distract him from a bigger plot and the gods going after their favourite disciple at the same time AND magic and shifters.
I did enjoy this for sure and there was a nice variety of characters.
It was very action based and fast paced.
Would read again.
Was a great beginning for a series. A demon trying to frame the main character to distract him from a bigger plot and the gods going after their favourite disciple at the same time AND magic and shifters.
I did enjoy this for sure and there was a nice variety of characters.
It was very action based and fast paced.
Would read again.
February 19, 2019
Honestly most of this book pissed me off. In the prequel, which I read first because I prefer timelines, Alayna says she will never abandon Mike. She's a dirty liar. I can recall at least three times in this book when she abandon Mike and refuses to help. So that just made me really angry and is the most that I took from the book. It is nice to see Mike growing as a caring person and magically.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2020
I admit, the fact that this story takes place in Pittsburgh got me hooked, as that is where I have lived about 80% of my life. But I couldn't make myself read more than a chapter or two. It jumped around so much that I honestly could not tell you anything substantial about the plot or characters. I tried, but...I just couldn't get into this.
December 10, 2017
This is a great start to a series. I adore Merlino, his sarcastic nature just appeals to me. It's a fast paced novel, full of intrigue, suspense and turn arounds. It had me gripped. Can't wait for more!
December 16, 2017
Shifting Problems
I like the story line. The writing is not as smooth as I think it should be. But I am willing to buy the second book and hope for improvement. The story was that good.
I like the story line. The writing is not as smooth as I think it should be. But I am willing to buy the second book and hope for improvement. The story was that good.
January 18, 2018
Shifting Problems
Great reading, lost of action magical and non magical. The storyline is pretty cool too, I like the different approach to magic and it's uses. All in all this book really surprised me, at how well written it is . Fab
Great reading, lost of action magical and non magical. The storyline is pretty cool too, I like the different approach to magic and it's uses. All in all this book really surprised me, at how well written it is . Fab
January 22, 2018
!!!
I recommend reading this book 📖!! It I enjoyed reading it. Mike is a wizard in training and can't seem to stay out of trouble but things are not always what they seem to be. Can't wait to read the next t one
I recommend reading this book 📖!! It I enjoyed reading it. Mike is a wizard in training and can't seem to stay out of trouble but things are not always what they seem to be. Can't wait to read the next t one
March 18, 2019
Fantasy mystery
One of the better realistic fantasy stories I've read, realistic blend of fantasy characters in true to life settings and how that would work. Sort of a YA Sookie world.
One of the better realistic fantasy stories I've read, realistic blend of fantasy characters in true to life settings and how that would work. Sort of a YA Sookie world.
January 15, 2018
Reminded me of a young Harry Dresden only this wizard can actually use technology. Entertaining and relatively quick read.
March 15, 2018
it was and interesting concept. not completely sold on the execution.
November 23, 2018
Enjoyable enough but unfortunately the characters didn't grab my attention enough to want to read the next books
January 8, 2019
Fantastic read. Jason Paul Rice is right up there with Jim Butcher.
July 10, 2019
Enjoyable Read
I enjoyed the world of Shifting Problems and will happily return there. Mike and friends are definitely worth spending some more time with.
I enjoyed the world of Shifting Problems and will happily return there. Mike and friends are definitely worth spending some more time with.
October 10, 2018
Urban Fantasy that more than delivers with a new protector of Pittsburgh, Micheal, who is up to his ears in demons and shifters on his first assignment! It is non stop adventure from the first page brought to life with interesting, diverse characters and filled with Jason Paul Rice's poetic wit. Join the fight to save the city and foil their evil plans! You will enjoy the battle.
Merged review:
Urban Fantasy that more than delivers with a new protector of Pittsburgh who is up to his ears in demons and shifters on his first assignment! It is non-stop adventure from the first page, brought to life with interesting, diverse characters and filled with J. P. Rice's poetic wit. This is a great rewritten version of the original book with more polish, and better flow. If you haven’t started this series, now is a fantastic time. If you are already a fan, this well worth a reread!
Mike has only been training in magic with the Celtic Gods and his mentor, Alayna, for two years. He is making great progress, though he knows magic is a lifelong study. It has been a few months since he became the official Guardian of Pittsburgh and so far there hasn’t been any trouble.
Until today! When he turned down an alley he ran into three different types of demons harassing a man in a business suit. A battle ensued, but he managed to save the man. The trouble was, after saving the businessman, he shifted into a demon too and got away, disappearing into the city.
Things only got worse from there. Barely surviving a bite from one of the demons and making it home, Mike found that the escaped demon murdered several business executives a short time after escaping. Soon Mike hardly has time to move from murder scene to scene with his partner on the police force, Gretchen Meyer. It seems many business people and even a few service people all over the city are shifting into were animals and killing.
What is happening in Pittsburgh? Will Mike be able to get to the bottom of the shifting problem? Who is behind all the new shifters in town? Join the fight to save the city and foil their evil plans! Get the new Shifting Problems today. You will enjoy the battle.
Kindle Unlimited edition
Merged review:
Urban Fantasy that more than delivers with a new protector of Pittsburgh who is up to his ears in demons and shifters on his first assignment! It is non-stop adventure from the first page, brought to life with interesting, diverse characters and filled with J. P. Rice's poetic wit. This is a great rewritten version of the original book with more polish, and better flow. If you haven’t started this series, now is a fantastic time. If you are already a fan, this well worth a reread!
Mike has only been training in magic with the Celtic Gods and his mentor, Alayna, for two years. He is making great progress, though he knows magic is a lifelong study. It has been a few months since he became the official Guardian of Pittsburgh and so far there hasn’t been any trouble.
Until today! When he turned down an alley he ran into three different types of demons harassing a man in a business suit. A battle ensued, but he managed to save the man. The trouble was, after saving the businessman, he shifted into a demon too and got away, disappearing into the city.
Things only got worse from there. Barely surviving a bite from one of the demons and making it home, Mike found that the escaped demon murdered several business executives a short time after escaping. Soon Mike hardly has time to move from murder scene to scene with his partner on the police force, Gretchen Meyer. It seems many business people and even a few service people all over the city are shifting into were animals and killing.
What is happening in Pittsburgh? Will Mike be able to get to the bottom of the shifting problem? Who is behind all the new shifters in town? Join the fight to save the city and foil their evil plans! Get the new Shifting Problems today. You will enjoy the battle.
Kindle Unlimited edition
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews