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The Immortal Dealers #1
The Serpent
One woman is in a world of otherworldly trouble—and she’s going to have to bet her life to save humankind.
Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger has put her dreams aside to look after her eccentric mother. Case in point: saving her from a mysterious stranger who’s just stormed the terrified woman’s antique store wearing a rattlesnake tattoo, leveling threats, and brandishing the weirdest deck of cards Ernie’s ever seen.
When Ernie grabs some of the cards and runs, she’s launched into a world she never knew existed—one her mother may know more about than she’s revealing. With a handful of stolen cards, Ernie has just been made an unwilling player in a game of good versus evil. But she’s not even playing with a full deck, and its original owner is more than happy to kill to get his cards back.
Suddenly Ernie’s matching wits and plays with the supernatural Immortal Dealers, who can raise empires, damn souls, and shape the world’s destiny. It’s up to Ernie to defeat the most brutal member of their order. And if her roguish new ally isn’t bluffing, he can help. The mystery is all in the cards, and to save her life—and humanity—Ernie had better learn how to deal.
Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger has put her dreams aside to look after her eccentric mother. Case in point: saving her from a mysterious stranger who’s just stormed the terrified woman’s antique store wearing a rattlesnake tattoo, leveling threats, and brandishing the weirdest deck of cards Ernie’s ever seen.
When Ernie grabs some of the cards and runs, she’s launched into a world she never knew existed—one her mother may know more about than she’s revealing. With a handful of stolen cards, Ernie has just been made an unwilling player in a game of good versus evil. But she’s not even playing with a full deck, and its original owner is more than happy to kill to get his cards back.
Suddenly Ernie’s matching wits and plays with the supernatural Immortal Dealers, who can raise empires, damn souls, and shape the world’s destiny. It’s up to Ernie to defeat the most brutal member of their order. And if her roguish new ally isn’t bluffing, he can help. The mystery is all in the cards, and to save her life—and humanity—Ernie had better learn how to deal.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2018
694 people are currently reading
1534 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Fine
54 books1,998 followersWhen I'm not writing, I'm psychologizing (really, I even get a paycheck for it). Sometimes I do both at the same time. The results are unpredictable.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
June 17, 2018
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Who knew a partial deck of cards would have Ernestine Terwilliger caught up in a battle for her life among supernatural card sharks known as the Immortal Dealers. No, this isn’t a tale of gambling in Vegas because Ernie will be gambling for her life and the lives of those she loves and no one has told her the rules.
Sarah Fine’s THE SERPENT is fresh, fast and furious fun as one quirky heroine finds herself caught up in a world where the deck is stacked against her, and her eccentric mother and absent father knew all about it. Can she trust Gabe, another Immortal Dealer to have her back or is it every Dealer for him/herself?
Quirky fun, magical cards and a villain who wants his cards back…Ernie must navigate a world where just having a poker face isn’t going to cut it. The cards have power, but first she must make friends with the deck. A completely new take on the supernatural, the groundwork has been laid for what looks to be a fun new series. Sarah Fine’s latest is sure to be another great, light escape-from-reality series.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from 47North!
Series: The Immortal Dealers - Book 1
Publisher: 47North (July 24, 2018)
Publication Date: July 24, 2018
Genre: Fantasy | Action & Adventure
Number of Pages: 316 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Who knew a partial deck of cards would have Ernestine Terwilliger caught up in a battle for her life among supernatural card sharks known as the Immortal Dealers. No, this isn’t a tale of gambling in Vegas because Ernie will be gambling for her life and the lives of those she loves and no one has told her the rules.
Sarah Fine’s THE SERPENT is fresh, fast and furious fun as one quirky heroine finds herself caught up in a world where the deck is stacked against her, and her eccentric mother and absent father knew all about it. Can she trust Gabe, another Immortal Dealer to have her back or is it every Dealer for him/herself?
Quirky fun, magical cards and a villain who wants his cards back…Ernie must navigate a world where just having a poker face isn’t going to cut it. The cards have power, but first she must make friends with the deck. A completely new take on the supernatural, the groundwork has been laid for what looks to be a fun new series. Sarah Fine’s latest is sure to be another great, light escape-from-reality series.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from 47North!
Series: The Immortal Dealers - Book 1
Publisher: 47North (July 24, 2018)
Publication Date: July 24, 2018
Genre: Fantasy | Action & Adventure
Number of Pages: 316 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
April 25, 2022
First read: 06/2018 - 4 stars
Second read: 04/2022 - still 4 stars! On to the next one!
Initial review:
I often feel like the Urban Fantasy genre has pretty much been exploited by now. Not that it bothers me much - a trope or myth can be told in so many different ways that, done right, it will still be exciting to read about it even for the hundredth time.
Still, I do appreciate when from time to time, authors come up with something completely new, as Sarah Fine did here.
This was such a fresh, unique concept and I absolutely loved it. Immortal dealers who each possess a deck of cards which they use to control and wield their supernatural powers. Spirit animals that bond with that deck and its owner and will fight on their side. Can't say I've ever read anything like it.
In addition to an amazing premise, Sarah Fine also spoils us with some great charactes. While reading the first few chapters, I didn't think I would end up liking Ernie. Well, I did. Actually, I loved her. She was sarcastic, strong-willed and pretty bad-ass, exactly my type of UF heroine.
And don't even get me started on Gabe. Oh my God, Gabe. I'm in lust. An Irish charmer, easy-going on the outside but with a giant chip on his shoulder, too.
A dysfunctional posse of allies, enemies and a fantastic villain. Wacky family and friends.
This was extremely fast-paced, action-laden yet still easy to read and follow despite all the foreign world building.
Fine has done a mighty fine job here.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2018
Despite a beginning that was both a little slow and a little hard to get into, THE SERPENT was actually a pretty fresh and fun new urban fantasy/paranormal series opener. With a sorta-Tarot based magic system and pseudo animal familiars, Fine's new series is complex and interesting yes overwhelming.. but only long enough for our heroine to adjust to the same situations, and information, the reader is. The action is great, the cast of characters diverse and full of potential for future hijinks and conflict, and there's a romance brewing I quite like. Though I imagine we'll get strung along for a ride with a few obstacles to overcome. As one does.
"I've never been in a duel where my opponent's first play was to throw a giant dildo at me."
"We're all having a night of firsts, I guess."
This opener doesn't quite earn itself a four star rating though because of aforementioned beginning and the constant repetition and reference back to Ernie's Spartan training and ability to persevere, to utilize teamwork, was just way way overdone. I didn't need an every page reminder that she was part of this extracurricular group of badasses and could otherwise handle herself 'if not for extenuating magical circumstances'. She's not my favourite heroine but she has potential and the fun world building and magic system make up for a lot. Plus did I mention the romance..
Definitely glad I have book two to dive into. I want more.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
"I've never been in a duel where my opponent's first play was to throw a giant dildo at me."
"We're all having a night of firsts, I guess."
This opener doesn't quite earn itself a four star rating though because of aforementioned beginning and the constant repetition and reference back to Ernie's Spartan training and ability to persevere, to utilize teamwork, was just way way overdone. I didn't need an every page reminder that she was part of this extracurricular group of badasses and could otherwise handle herself 'if not for extenuating magical circumstances'. She's not my favourite heroine but she has potential and the fun world building and magic system make up for a lot. Plus did I mention the romance..
Definitely glad I have book two to dive into. I want more.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
September 12, 2018
I gave this a shot because the premise sounded interesting. I'm giving up because I'm having a hard time with the characters. Ernie isn't quite a cliché, but it's a close call. And she's not quite too stupid to live, but that's a close call, too. It's like at bedtime for a toddler where they're doing their darndest to stay awake but keep nodding off. That's the author trying to stay out of cliché with this character. Ernie drifts into TSTL territory only to jerk awake at the last moment with something that pulls her keister out of the fire in a way that almost makes sense. And I know it makes sense for her to be all wary about Gabe, but he's been nothing but kind to her and he's the only source of information she has about this new world she has stumbled into so every time she jaunts off on her own I kind of want to smack her. Also, can we have more depth than "snakes and spiders are icky"? So she's all "I can't bond with a snake" and "get away mister meanie-head" and I'm all "sigh".
If that weren't bad enough, the rest of the characters have the depth of a postage stamp. I've no idea why Gabe is helping her and both bad guys we've met so far seem pretty much from the "I'm evil so I will attack you" school of villain behavior. And Ernie's mother is stupid, negligent, and the woman in the refrigerator. Which is what finally got on my last nerve. Oh noes, the bad guy magically pierced the spirit barrier mom made and stole mom as a hostage, whatever shall we do?!? It felt like the toddler finally fell asleep and clichés had finally taken over the story.
If that weren't bad enough, the rest of the characters have the depth of a postage stamp. I've no idea why Gabe is helping her and both bad guys we've met so far seem pretty much from the "I'm evil so I will attack you" school of villain behavior. And Ernie's mother is stupid, negligent, and the woman in the refrigerator. Which is what finally got on my last nerve. Oh noes, the bad guy magically pierced the spirit barrier mom made and stole mom as a hostage, whatever shall we do?!? It felt like the toddler finally fell asleep and clichés had finally taken over the story.
November 8, 2025
Highly original, unexpectedly twisty turny, The Serpent is a great new novel to enjoy!
Fine developed a world where there is no fate but a strategic card game where you and the fate of all man kind hangs in the balance of which cards are played and when. The only problem...the dealers who decide which cards are played are a crazed, unpredictable band of misfits. The battle for who controls the deck of cards is precarious to say the least.
I found The Serpent a fast paced, new and exciting reality break.
I received this ARC copy of The Serpent from 47North. This is my honest and voluntary review. The Serpent is set for publication July 24, 2018.
Fine developed a world where there is no fate but a strategic card game where you and the fate of all man kind hangs in the balance of which cards are played and when. The only problem...the dealers who decide which cards are played are a crazed, unpredictable band of misfits. The battle for who controls the deck of cards is precarious to say the least.
I found The Serpent a fast paced, new and exciting reality break.
I received this ARC copy of The Serpent from 47North. This is my honest and voluntary review. The Serpent is set for publication July 24, 2018.
August 4, 2018
What a fabulous start to a new series! I haven't read a book by Sarah Fine in a while, but this book reminded me why I love her writing and characters so much. I found myself easily sinking into The Serpent.
Sarah Fine is such a fantastic author at coming up with unique and fresh concepts. This new book in The Immortal Dealers series is no different. The Dealers in question refer to powerful and immortal beings who have determined the course of history through a deck of magical cards, each deck represented by an animal a la Patronus from the Harry Potter series. The heroine, Ernie, finds herself thrust into this world of Dealers when she unwittingly steals the cards from a narcissistic Dealer with nefarious goals. With the aid of a charming Dealer, Gabe, Ernie learns to navigate this world and go on a treacherous journey to save her mother. Does that not sound so interesting? I can always count on Sarah Fine to build up the world in her books in a way that's effortless to take in. In The Serpent, the world is gradually introduced making it very easy for readers to understand the full scope of it. It was magical and intriguing. And oh my goodness, did I love the plot. With an urban fantasy book, I always hope for action and twists and turns. The Serpent delivered on all counts! I enjoyed every minute of this ride.
The ride wouldn't have been entertaining had it not been for the stellar cast. Ernie, the heroine, was an instant favorite. Her sass and humor infused a lightness to the story. She was a great character who was easy to root for. I particularly enjoyed her bravery and her willingness to do go to extreme lengths to support her mother. Ernie was complex, and as the book progressed, we got to see a ton of growth and maturity in her character as she learned more about her family history as well as herself. Gabe, the Dealer, who decides to give her a helping hand, was just the perfect partner for her. He was mysterious, but also very easy-going. I definitely had a soft spot for the guy. There was a slow-burn type of romance between the two and I can't wait for more! The animal associated with Ernie's stolen deck, the serpent, was also an entertaining character in itself. She was as sassy as Ernie and their bond took a while to grow but it was so worth the wait. The rest of the secondary cast was just as colorful as the main character - I always do love reading books about rag-tag groups.
I haven't been this excited for a new series in a while and I'm so glad that I read The Serpent. There are tons more to learn about this world and these characters - I can't wait! Imaginative, thrilling and humorous, The Serpent is a must-read for fans of urban fantasy.
June 8, 2018
Four and a half
This sucked me in but just missed a 5 because obviously the author is still expanding this amazing world that she has created . The Serpent is the first full length book in this extremely promising new series about immortal dealers and the decks they are entrusted with. Our heroine is Ernie, a young woman used to taking care of others but always for some reason pushing herself to go that extra mile. Ernie has always known her mum is a little eccentric but had no idea just how far involved she was with the unusual world of the arcane . Everything changes when Ernie is attacked and becomes the owner of a partial deck of cards. Trouble is the dealer wants them back and he will use every trick ( or creature ! ) in his arsenal to get them and Ernie quickly discovers that this new and frightened reality can be deadly.
I liked Ernie but her constant reminder that she’s involved in brutally, challenging Spartan races did get old very quickly. That having been said I did understand that the author was trying to convince her readers that Ernie had grit and determination which she certainly needed as the story unfolded. She does have back up from Gabe a fellow dealer who has secrets of his own but I do wish that the allies Ernie acquires were not quite so childish at times.
Overall I found it very easy to become immersed in this story with its unique take on the paranormal. I’ve tried not to include spoilers because I really think it’s worth reading without any heads up first. There is a distinct lack of actual romance but definitely possibilities as this series continues I think which I quite enjoy in urban fantasy. Some things are revealed here but there’s even more mystery to wade through and I’d definitely like to read more from this new to me author.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This sucked me in but just missed a 5 because obviously the author is still expanding this amazing world that she has created . The Serpent is the first full length book in this extremely promising new series about immortal dealers and the decks they are entrusted with. Our heroine is Ernie, a young woman used to taking care of others but always for some reason pushing herself to go that extra mile. Ernie has always known her mum is a little eccentric but had no idea just how far involved she was with the unusual world of the arcane . Everything changes when Ernie is attacked and becomes the owner of a partial deck of cards. Trouble is the dealer wants them back and he will use every trick ( or creature ! ) in his arsenal to get them and Ernie quickly discovers that this new and frightened reality can be deadly.
I liked Ernie but her constant reminder that she’s involved in brutally, challenging Spartan races did get old very quickly. That having been said I did understand that the author was trying to convince her readers that Ernie had grit and determination which she certainly needed as the story unfolded. She does have back up from Gabe a fellow dealer who has secrets of his own but I do wish that the allies Ernie acquires were not quite so childish at times.
Overall I found it very easy to become immersed in this story with its unique take on the paranormal. I’ve tried not to include spoilers because I really think it’s worth reading without any heads up first. There is a distinct lack of actual romance but definitely possibilities as this series continues I think which I quite enjoy in urban fantasy. Some things are revealed here but there’s even more mystery to wade through and I’d definitely like to read more from this new to me author.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
July 9, 2018
Sarah Fine is known for creating unusual premises for almost all of her books and series. She is someone you can count on for a bit of the different and sometimes, in some case, even a bit of the dark.
Which is why whenever I see she has something new out, I'm all over it.
Her latest is definitely in the realm of different and new. Something that will suck you in with it's interesting storyline and complex game of cards, mystery, and danger.
And while this was captivating in premises, it sadly lacked any real character connection for me. I found that while I was intrigued by the weird and original world she had created in Dealers and cards, I sadly cared little for the characters or felt anything for them. But it was okay because the world certainly kept me turning the pages wanting to see what direction the author was going to take with it all and by the end, I was left wanting to read the second book.
Overall a daring new series with an exciting new premises that I think those looking for something original and unique will enjoy.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Which is why whenever I see she has something new out, I'm all over it.
Her latest is definitely in the realm of different and new. Something that will suck you in with it's interesting storyline and complex game of cards, mystery, and danger.
And while this was captivating in premises, it sadly lacked any real character connection for me. I found that while I was intrigued by the weird and original world she had created in Dealers and cards, I sadly cared little for the characters or felt anything for them. But it was okay because the world certainly kept me turning the pages wanting to see what direction the author was going to take with it all and by the end, I was left wanting to read the second book.
Overall a daring new series with an exciting new premises that I think those looking for something original and unique will enjoy.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
July 1, 2018
I LOVE Urban Fantasy genre. Most of my currently on-going series has been around for a while, and as much as I love them -- because why else I still wait for each new release? -- I'm always up to find new exciting series to look forward to. When I saw
The Serpent
on Netgalley, I was curious. The blurb says things about cards and supernatural Immortal Dealers. It definitely doesn't sound like the usual supernatural creatures to me. So I asked for an advance copy.
Boy, I was in for the ride!!
The Serpent feels definitely refreshing for me. There are Immortal Dealers who have been playing cards that determine the course of history and humanity ... basically what keeps the world turning. Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger is 'pushed' into this world when she undeliberately steals the cards of another Dealer, and then realizing she has to fight for her life as well as her mother. Ernie needs to learn the rules fast. And I found myself learning about everything alongside her. I thought it was an exciting book! I imagine the author must be having fun creating the names of the cards, the animals representing the deck, the results of combining the cards ... it IS imaginative ^^.
I loved Ernie enough ... I loved how she took care of her mother. I loved that she was using humor to defuse stress. I loved that she apparently had trust issues *lol*. In fact, I agreed with Ernie. I mean Gabe -- the love interest, another Dealer -- DID want to take the Marks from Ernie in the beginning. So Ernie had all the rights not immediately trust him. Plus Gabe took his time to explain everything to her. I was frustrated when Gabe seemed to still keep secrets from Ernie. Come on, Gabe, it isn't like Ernie knowingly willing to become a Dealer! Jeez.
Another thing I liked from this book was the "group" sense to it. In order to beat the big bad villain, Gabe asked help from some allies. Oftentimes in Urban Fantasy, the hero and heroine find themselves two against the world. Here, I had the fun time reading several Dealers fighting against the bad guys. Yes, they fought among themselves too -- apparently Dealers prefer to work alone -- but I hoped that the allies would always return to be 'part of the fight' in the next books.
So yes, I have another series to follow!! Cannot wait for book #2 coming in October.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Boy, I was in for the ride!!
The Serpent feels definitely refreshing for me. There are Immortal Dealers who have been playing cards that determine the course of history and humanity ... basically what keeps the world turning. Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger is 'pushed' into this world when she undeliberately steals the cards of another Dealer, and then realizing she has to fight for her life as well as her mother. Ernie needs to learn the rules fast. And I found myself learning about everything alongside her. I thought it was an exciting book! I imagine the author must be having fun creating the names of the cards, the animals representing the deck, the results of combining the cards ... it IS imaginative ^^.
I loved Ernie enough ... I loved how she took care of her mother. I loved that she was using humor to defuse stress. I loved that she apparently had trust issues *lol*. In fact, I agreed with Ernie. I mean Gabe -- the love interest, another Dealer -- DID want to take the Marks from Ernie in the beginning. So Ernie had all the rights not immediately trust him. Plus Gabe took his time to explain everything to her. I was frustrated when Gabe seemed to still keep secrets from Ernie. Come on, Gabe, it isn't like Ernie knowingly willing to become a Dealer! Jeez.
Another thing I liked from this book was the "group" sense to it. In order to beat the big bad villain, Gabe asked help from some allies. Oftentimes in Urban Fantasy, the hero and heroine find themselves two against the world. Here, I had the fun time reading several Dealers fighting against the bad guys. Yes, they fought among themselves too -- apparently Dealers prefer to work alone -- but I hoped that the allies would always return to be 'part of the fight' in the next books.
So yes, I have another series to follow!! Cannot wait for book #2 coming in October.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
January 9, 2019
This reminded me of Vicki Pettersson’s SIGNS OF THE ZODIAC, but only in small ways. As I did with that series, I enjoyed IMMORTAL DEALERS uniqueness and look forward to the remaining two installments.
November 18, 2019
An interesting idea that doesn't always work.
But I love the idea and it's good enough that I want to continue with book 2.
But I love the idea and it's good enough that I want to continue with book 2.
October 1, 2018
The premise of this book is unique and intriguing. The magic, here, is all controlled by decks of cards. The cards need to stay together with one "dealer" or the dealer gets weakened. Each deck is represented by a spirit animal. Our heroine's deck? A snake. Yes. A snake. Not just *any* snake - a RATTLEsnake. Argh.
Though the *ideas* presented here are intriguing and interesting and new to me, the actual presentation fell a little flat for me. There were moments of brilliant action followed by too much dull description and explanation. Meanwhile, I frequently found myself with furled eyebrows and cocked head wondering what on earth just happened and *how* it happened. One revelation caught me totally flat footed while the other I saw coming from a mile away.
There are many many characters thrown at us and there are relationships here to savor and develop and watch grow. Though, some of the characters seem to exhibit traits that we are led to believe they do not have . . . for instance, her dippy mother frequently illustrates too much brilliance to be as "dippy" as we are led to believe.
I enjoyed visiting Asheville. I wish I'd seen more of the gorgeous NC mountains.
This is probably a 3.5 star book which I upgraded to 4 simply because of the novelty. I will continue in the next one and hope that it is written a bit more smoothly.
Though the *ideas* presented here are intriguing and interesting and new to me, the actual presentation fell a little flat for me. There were moments of brilliant action followed by too much dull description and explanation. Meanwhile, I frequently found myself with furled eyebrows and cocked head wondering what on earth just happened and *how* it happened. One revelation caught me totally flat footed while the other I saw coming from a mile away.
There are many many characters thrown at us and there are relationships here to savor and develop and watch grow. Though, some of the characters seem to exhibit traits that we are led to believe they do not have . . . for instance, her dippy mother frequently illustrates too much brilliance to be as "dippy" as we are led to believe.
I enjoyed visiting Asheville. I wish I'd seen more of the gorgeous NC mountains.
This is probably a 3.5 star book which I upgraded to 4 simply because of the novelty. I will continue in the next one and hope that it is written a bit more smoothly.
August 27, 2018
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars!
Same Review Also Posted On My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
Sarah Fine always comes up with unique concepts and this one sounded very much promising so I really wanted to give it a shot. After having finished reading it, it has left me with mixed feelings. Certain aspects of the novel really intrigued me, while others failed to impress me. I absolutely loved the idea behind the concept of deck of magical cards and the immortal dealers but I also felt that it was lacking something. I wish the author provided more info about the world of Immortal dealers. The characters could've been better. The main character Ernie wasn't bad but the secondary characters failed to grab my attention even though they seem like interesting characters. The romance felt a little meh which was a bit disappointing.
Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger has been in Asheville, North Carolina her enter life. Her best friends Dia and Jules are soon going to leave their town to move on with their life, but Ernie has to stay in Asheville and look after her emotionally ill mother who owns an antique store. Before Ernie and her friends gets separated, they decide to celebrate at a local bar where they meet a handsome tattooed stranger who completely freaks her best friend Jules. While confronting the stranger, Ernie angrily grabs some of his deck of cards and runs away from him. She soon learns that they're not normal cards and somehow she unknowingly enters into a game that she doesn't want to be a part of. The original owner of the cards will not stop until he steals back his cards from her and kill her. The only one who can help her is the rogue dealer named Gabe who wants something from her mother which she's refusing to give up. When Gabe and Ernie learns of their enemy's nefarious plans for their world, they both team up to fight against him, but first Ernie needs to earn the trust of the cards and learn to control them which isn't an easy task when she's faced with a deadly serpent.
Ernie is a likable character, but honestly she isn't really my favorite protagonist. She's actually a weak and naive character who slowly develops into a strong woman. When I saw the cover, I was expecting a pretty badass heroine fighting with her magical deck of cards, but she really isn't. However, I really enjoyed her character development. The broody love interest Gabe was not bad. He has a sad past and I really wanted to love him, but I seriously can't connect with this guy. There is a very light romance between Gabe and Ernie, but honestly I didn't feel any chemistry between them. I hope it improves in the next book. The villain Duncan was evil and a total douche. The forger named Andy was an intriguing character. He's smart, cunning, and mysterious. I really like to know more about him. I also liked Ernie's spirit animal "The Serpent". She's smart, and sassy. The secondary characters aren't fleshed out well enough but they all seem like interesting characters. I wish there was more girl friendship in this book. Ernie's friends Dia and Jules didn't played much part. They appeared whenever they're needed and quickly disappeared.
The plot was interesting and very unique. I found the pacing a little bit slow which isn't my favorite thing in urban fantasy books. The magical system was original and unique, but it was pretty hard to understand it. There are a total 54 magical cards in a deck and each deck is represented by an animal figure. Each card gives special powers to the dealer like deceive, Escape, heal, manipulate, gain strength, hide etc. To get control of the full deck you need to be strong enough and earn the trust of its spirit animal otherwise another dealer can steal away your cards pretty easily. It really took some time for me to understand how the whole card magic works but I'm still not sure about how the combination thing works and It was quite difficult to memorize the symbols of each card. It's so crazy. I hope It'll get easier maybe in the next book. I loved the writing. The whole book was told in Ernie's third person pov. I didn't payed much attention to the setting, but I think it was okay.
Overall, It was an okay-ish read. Although it didn't blow me my mind away, I really loved the concept and the magical system so I'm definitely going to pick up the next book.
Same Review Also Posted On My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
Sarah Fine always comes up with unique concepts and this one sounded very much promising so I really wanted to give it a shot. After having finished reading it, it has left me with mixed feelings. Certain aspects of the novel really intrigued me, while others failed to impress me. I absolutely loved the idea behind the concept of deck of magical cards and the immortal dealers but I also felt that it was lacking something. I wish the author provided more info about the world of Immortal dealers. The characters could've been better. The main character Ernie wasn't bad but the secondary characters failed to grab my attention even though they seem like interesting characters. The romance felt a little meh which was a bit disappointing.
Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger has been in Asheville, North Carolina her enter life. Her best friends Dia and Jules are soon going to leave their town to move on with their life, but Ernie has to stay in Asheville and look after her emotionally ill mother who owns an antique store. Before Ernie and her friends gets separated, they decide to celebrate at a local bar where they meet a handsome tattooed stranger who completely freaks her best friend Jules. While confronting the stranger, Ernie angrily grabs some of his deck of cards and runs away from him. She soon learns that they're not normal cards and somehow she unknowingly enters into a game that she doesn't want to be a part of. The original owner of the cards will not stop until he steals back his cards from her and kill her. The only one who can help her is the rogue dealer named Gabe who wants something from her mother which she's refusing to give up. When Gabe and Ernie learns of their enemy's nefarious plans for their world, they both team up to fight against him, but first Ernie needs to earn the trust of the cards and learn to control them which isn't an easy task when she's faced with a deadly serpent.
Ernie is a likable character, but honestly she isn't really my favorite protagonist. She's actually a weak and naive character who slowly develops into a strong woman. When I saw the cover, I was expecting a pretty badass heroine fighting with her magical deck of cards, but she really isn't. However, I really enjoyed her character development. The broody love interest Gabe was not bad. He has a sad past and I really wanted to love him, but I seriously can't connect with this guy. There is a very light romance between Gabe and Ernie, but honestly I didn't feel any chemistry between them. I hope it improves in the next book. The villain Duncan was evil and a total douche. The forger named Andy was an intriguing character. He's smart, cunning, and mysterious. I really like to know more about him. I also liked Ernie's spirit animal "The Serpent". She's smart, and sassy. The secondary characters aren't fleshed out well enough but they all seem like interesting characters. I wish there was more girl friendship in this book. Ernie's friends Dia and Jules didn't played much part. They appeared whenever they're needed and quickly disappeared.
The plot was interesting and very unique. I found the pacing a little bit slow which isn't my favorite thing in urban fantasy books. The magical system was original and unique, but it was pretty hard to understand it. There are a total 54 magical cards in a deck and each deck is represented by an animal figure. Each card gives special powers to the dealer like deceive, Escape, heal, manipulate, gain strength, hide etc. To get control of the full deck you need to be strong enough and earn the trust of its spirit animal otherwise another dealer can steal away your cards pretty easily. It really took some time for me to understand how the whole card magic works but I'm still not sure about how the combination thing works and It was quite difficult to memorize the symbols of each card. It's so crazy. I hope It'll get easier maybe in the next book. I loved the writing. The whole book was told in Ernie's third person pov. I didn't payed much attention to the setting, but I think it was okay.
Overall, It was an okay-ish read. Although it didn't blow me my mind away, I really loved the concept and the magical system so I'm definitely going to pick up the next book.
July 21, 2018
*Source* Publisher via NetGalley
*Genre* Fantasy / Urban
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
The Serpent is the first installment in a brand new series by author Sarah Fine called The Immortal Dealers. The series is set in a contemporary world where protagonist Ernestine "Ernie" Terwilliger is just a woman trying to get by while working as a Hospital Clerk for a local hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. She also takes care of her eccentric, harebrained, pagan, hippie mother who operates Terwilliger Antiquities. Ernie has been taking care of her mother since her father disappeared 20 years ago.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Genre* Fantasy / Urban
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
The Serpent is the first installment in a brand new series by author Sarah Fine called The Immortal Dealers. The series is set in a contemporary world where protagonist Ernestine "Ernie" Terwilliger is just a woman trying to get by while working as a Hospital Clerk for a local hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. She also takes care of her eccentric, harebrained, pagan, hippie mother who operates Terwilliger Antiquities. Ernie has been taking care of her mother since her father disappeared 20 years ago.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
July 11, 2018
Excellent narration and unique UF. RTC.
August 13, 2019
remember reading it last summer and it ws aight, but wanted more romance (fjdkal;fja) and I kind of forgot the majority of the plot (oops).
August 3, 2018
Sober, medicated, under the radar. That's how this story felt to me. Sarah Fine successfully managed once again to abandon all emotions from her writing. "The Serpent" is just another soulless Urban Fantasy novel build from stereotypes, bland characters, a magic system that's never questioned, antagonists who are evil because ... well, they are evil, a rushed romance that never feels real. Protagonist Ernie has only her antique dealer mother left, her father abandoned them, but still writes cryptic messages and sends along strange objects to protect them - see where this is going? I did. Where's the novelty in this? Where's the novelty in card magic?
I've never been a fan of this genre, but I thought after "Uncanny" and "Beneath the Shine" Sarah Fine might be able to harness the power to master it. But nope. "The Serpent" is just another return to nothingness, by an author I once loved. And I have no idea what happend. Is this what writing under the pressure of bread-winning does to your craft? Or is Sarah Fine finally unable to let her feelings shine through her writing? Her "Guards of the Shadowland" trilogy almost killed me, it made me feel, sob, scream and stay on the edge of my seat until the very end. I do not get that feeling from her books anymore. They all feel rushed, run by the rule book. Sarah Fine inserts all the ingredients necessary to make the story work for a standard crowd in a certain genre, but that's it. There is nothing new about this book, nothing that makes it stand out and nothing that makes me want to continue this series. I simply wasn't able to bond with these bland characters devoid of emotions and a solid background story.
It's a shame really, because I still love you, Sarah Fine.
I've never been a fan of this genre, but I thought after "Uncanny" and "Beneath the Shine" Sarah Fine might be able to harness the power to master it. But nope. "The Serpent" is just another return to nothingness, by an author I once loved. And I have no idea what happend. Is this what writing under the pressure of bread-winning does to your craft? Or is Sarah Fine finally unable to let her feelings shine through her writing? Her "Guards of the Shadowland" trilogy almost killed me, it made me feel, sob, scream and stay on the edge of my seat until the very end. I do not get that feeling from her books anymore. They all feel rushed, run by the rule book. Sarah Fine inserts all the ingredients necessary to make the story work for a standard crowd in a certain genre, but that's it. There is nothing new about this book, nothing that makes it stand out and nothing that makes me want to continue this series. I simply wasn't able to bond with these bland characters devoid of emotions and a solid background story.
It's a shame really, because I still love you, Sarah Fine.
November 5, 2018
3.5 Stars
September 8, 2018
I really wanted to love this book - and some aspects I did- because I need more series with magical cards like the Immortal Vegas series or the Arcana Chronicles. So when I saw this on Netgalley, naturally I leapt at the chance like Hugh Jackman in his wolverine movies.
So, you know, I was so freaking excited when I received it. At this point I had zero idea of who Sarah Fine was, so really didn’t know what to expect but I went in with full force.
Now, let’s get the elephant out of the way first. The first 18% of the book was pure torture for me. I hated the main character with a passion. She was supposed to be this caring, benevolent girl. Yeah, she took care of her mother, but that’s about it. She was such a narcissistic character in the beginning, literally on every page she was mad and jealous of her best friend. It took me forever to get past this part, I put the book down like five times before reaching somewhere around 20%. That’s when the good stuff starts.
Throughout the book I had a like/hate relationship with Ernie. She had good moments, funny comments, but she also had WTF-ARE-YOU-ON-ABOUT moments. She was definitely one of the weak links of the book, but I see the development in her character. I liked her learning process of card dealing and her weird but interesting combat style. She wasn’t a mary sue like OP character, she’s definitely a bit of a natural who has to learn a LOT before being a good Immortal Dealer, but she is decent.
So after the initial bad start, we slowly get to learn more about what the fudge is going on in this world, who are these so called Immortal Dealers and how they operate, what’s their purpose, etc. This, ladies and gentlemen, this world right here…. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS. It was soooo creative and fresh. FUCKING FINALLY, something new. Yes, a few times it contradicts itself (either that or we see just one side of the story, I don’t know how deep this is going to go) but i really enjoyed it.
I aéready talked about Ernie, but there were several other characters, besides her two major players and some minor. The other two major ones were Gabe, the ally-friend-lover-maybetraitorwhoknows (you will know by the end, but I’m not telling!). He was an alright character with flashed out backstory, good motive, reasonable, but didn’t really do anything for me yet. The other one, the villain, Duncan was truly a son of a whore. Again, great backstory, questionable judgement, but too.. formulatic? He wants power, duh.
I liked the allies of both sides, they were fantastic supporting characters with interesting stories and unique characteristics.
I don’t know if the author likes to play video games, mainly RPGs or strategy card games or some board games but sheesh, the card dealing system, the rules of the decks, the various types of card (offence, defense, augment, etc) and the card battles were SPOT ON. I felt like I’m fucking Gambit or Twisted Fate. I don’t know why *I* felt like that considering i didn’t do anything except reading, but i was beyond hyped!
The overall story was good, nothing exceptional but a good start for a series. I don’t see a big picture, yet. I have some theory but i don’t think it’s going to be such a grandiose series with big twists and mysteries like the best UF series out there, but still it could be entertaining and frankly, that’s enough for me right now.
Sarah Fine has definitely enough imagination and great writing style for a fantastic Urban Fantasy series, however she needs to learn to write compelling characters and a little bit more layered stories. I will be keeping up with this one because everything I loved about it but I hope she can improve on the character development and storytelling.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
So, you know, I was so freaking excited when I received it. At this point I had zero idea of who Sarah Fine was, so really didn’t know what to expect but I went in with full force.
Now, let’s get the elephant out of the way first. The first 18% of the book was pure torture for me. I hated the main character with a passion. She was supposed to be this caring, benevolent girl. Yeah, she took care of her mother, but that’s about it. She was such a narcissistic character in the beginning, literally on every page she was mad and jealous of her best friend. It took me forever to get past this part, I put the book down like five times before reaching somewhere around 20%. That’s when the good stuff starts.
Throughout the book I had a like/hate relationship with Ernie. She had good moments, funny comments, but she also had WTF-ARE-YOU-ON-ABOUT moments. She was definitely one of the weak links of the book, but I see the development in her character. I liked her learning process of card dealing and her weird but interesting combat style. She wasn’t a mary sue like OP character, she’s definitely a bit of a natural who has to learn a LOT before being a good Immortal Dealer, but she is decent.
So after the initial bad start, we slowly get to learn more about what the fudge is going on in this world, who are these so called Immortal Dealers and how they operate, what’s their purpose, etc. This, ladies and gentlemen, this world right here…. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS. It was soooo creative and fresh. FUCKING FINALLY, something new. Yes, a few times it contradicts itself (either that or we see just one side of the story, I don’t know how deep this is going to go) but i really enjoyed it.
I aéready talked about Ernie, but there were several other characters, besides her two major players and some minor. The other two major ones were Gabe, the ally-friend-lover-maybetraitorwhoknows (you will know by the end, but I’m not telling!). He was an alright character with flashed out backstory, good motive, reasonable, but didn’t really do anything for me yet. The other one, the villain, Duncan was truly a son of a whore. Again, great backstory, questionable judgement, but too.. formulatic? He wants power, duh.
I liked the allies of both sides, they were fantastic supporting characters with interesting stories and unique characteristics.
I don’t know if the author likes to play video games, mainly RPGs or strategy card games or some board games but sheesh, the card dealing system, the rules of the decks, the various types of card (offence, defense, augment, etc) and the card battles were SPOT ON. I felt like I’m fucking Gambit or Twisted Fate. I don’t know why *I* felt like that considering i didn’t do anything except reading, but i was beyond hyped!
The overall story was good, nothing exceptional but a good start for a series. I don’t see a big picture, yet. I have some theory but i don’t think it’s going to be such a grandiose series with big twists and mysteries like the best UF series out there, but still it could be entertaining and frankly, that’s enough for me right now.
Sarah Fine has definitely enough imagination and great writing style for a fantastic Urban Fantasy series, however she needs to learn to write compelling characters and a little bit more layered stories. I will be keeping up with this one because everything I loved about it but I hope she can improve on the character development and storytelling.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
July 23, 2018
Sarah Fine is an author I've returned to a few times. I always seem to get sucked into her books and fall for her characters. She writes these stories whichare so original and they are written so well.
This time around she once more writes an original sorry around immortal dealers. They are people who hold a special deck of cards they weird to perform magic. It sounds weird and it is but oh so good. I definitely found I wanted to know more of the magic as I definitely found myself confused by the magic system in this but I always find that with Fine's books develop and explain the story as the series goes on so I look forward to that.
I admit Ernie didn't seem like a character I would like at first. She's sporty and driven (in some ways) and her biggest thing is dealing with her mother who needs mothering. I quickly learnt Ernie has the typical humour I come to expect from Fine heroines and quickly grew to like her. She was fun and made me smile.
I enjoyed the rest of the characters in this book too. I did wish there was more development to the two girls who were Ernie's best friends as they were at the start and then gone. I get why it happened but I do wish they'd had a greater role than flyby appearances. I liked all the different dealers in the book. They were morally ambiguous but they were interesting. Obviously my favourite dealer was Gabe who introduced Ernie to the dealer world and he was utterly charming. I can definitely see there being more of a past to him and I want to explore it further.
This was such a well written book. I powered through it in a day and I couldn't get enough.
This time around she once more writes an original sorry around immortal dealers. They are people who hold a special deck of cards they weird to perform magic. It sounds weird and it is but oh so good. I definitely found I wanted to know more of the magic as I definitely found myself confused by the magic system in this but I always find that with Fine's books develop and explain the story as the series goes on so I look forward to that.
I admit Ernie didn't seem like a character I would like at first. She's sporty and driven (in some ways) and her biggest thing is dealing with her mother who needs mothering. I quickly learnt Ernie has the typical humour I come to expect from Fine heroines and quickly grew to like her. She was fun and made me smile.
I enjoyed the rest of the characters in this book too. I did wish there was more development to the two girls who were Ernie's best friends as they were at the start and then gone. I get why it happened but I do wish they'd had a greater role than flyby appearances. I liked all the different dealers in the book. They were morally ambiguous but they were interesting. Obviously my favourite dealer was Gabe who introduced Ernie to the dealer world and he was utterly charming. I can definitely see there being more of a past to him and I want to explore it further.
This was such a well written book. I powered through it in a day and I couldn't get enough.
July 30, 2018
Asheville, NC. Ernestine “Ernie” Philomena Dixon Terwilliger, Dia, & Jules (social worker, Redondo Beach), were celebrating & tomorrow going their separate ways.
After 20 yrs. Ernie got a postcard from her biological dad.
What were Gabe, & Duncan (immortal dealer) discussing with Ernie?
What sad news did Ernie hear about Jules?
What can the 4 enemy Dealers: the Komodo Dragon, the Hyena, the Wolf Spider, & the Diamondback do for you?
How about the allied Dealers?
What did Dia say to Ernie?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written paranormal thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great paranormal thriller movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me, so I will only rate it at 3/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; 47 North; Character Flaw Press, LLC.; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
After 20 yrs. Ernie got a postcard from her biological dad.
What were Gabe, & Duncan (immortal dealer) discussing with Ernie?
What sad news did Ernie hear about Jules?
What can the 4 enemy Dealers: the Komodo Dragon, the Hyena, the Wolf Spider, & the Diamondback do for you?
How about the allied Dealers?
What did Dia say to Ernie?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written paranormal thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great paranormal thriller movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me, so I will only rate it at 3/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; 47 North; Character Flaw Press, LLC.; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 26, 2018
In this new Urban Fantasy series from Sarah Fine, Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger gets thrown abruptly into a paranormal world when a strange man with a snake tattoo and odd deck of cards threatens her eccentric, emotionally fragile mother whom has Ernie has taken care of for years. Ernie grabs some of the peculiar cards in a confrontation and falls down the rabbit hole to a realm of Immortal Dealers whose powers can change the world. She tangles with the most sinister and malevolent of the Dealers needing the aide of another one, Gabe Carrig. He is a handsome Irishmen who seems to be the most honest and caring of this strange collection of people. Ernie has to learn on the job how to handle the cards she has while trying to get the rest of the deck and, most importantly, the avatar who guides them. Other Dealers who want to bring down the one known as Diamondback have their own issues and difficulty working as a cohesive team.
Ms. Fine has fashioned an interesting world where the fate of the mankind may rest on a young woman’s ability to learn magic skills while under much duress. This story is quite fast paced as Ernie is thrown into the fire constantly scrambling to barely keep ahead of the Diamondback Dealer, who will stop at nothing and use anyone to get his cards back. Much of her family history is revealed that unknown to Ernie previously, connects to this strange and confusing world. There is a hint of potential romance, but this being UF, that takes a back seat. Many possible scenarios are set in motion as some major issues are yet to be resolved.
Life as an Immortal Dealer for Ernie is filled with infinite possibilities as well as dangerous escapades. This story is a creative and a fresh take on a magical world. It will appeal to readers who like a lot of action, adventure, and a fast-paced tale that keeps the tension high.
Ms. Fine has fashioned an interesting world where the fate of the mankind may rest on a young woman’s ability to learn magic skills while under much duress. This story is quite fast paced as Ernie is thrown into the fire constantly scrambling to barely keep ahead of the Diamondback Dealer, who will stop at nothing and use anyone to get his cards back. Much of her family history is revealed that unknown to Ernie previously, connects to this strange and confusing world. There is a hint of potential romance, but this being UF, that takes a back seat. Many possible scenarios are set in motion as some major issues are yet to be resolved.
Life as an Immortal Dealer for Ernie is filled with infinite possibilities as well as dangerous escapades. This story is a creative and a fresh take on a magical world. It will appeal to readers who like a lot of action, adventure, and a fast-paced tale that keeps the tension high.
July 24, 2018
Please don’t let my four-star review scare you off from trying this book. Not only was the world-building unique, it was very well-written, hard to put down and very interesting. I love when I find a new author in urban fantasy which is my favorite genre, and I think this author definitely fits the bill of an author to recommend. My only holdbacks were that I had hard time connecting with a couple of the characters and sometimes had a hard time understanding the mechanics of the cards. However, neither one of these two things were a huge detriment to my enjoyment with the other elements of the book. I always mostly judge what I read on if I would want to read the next book, and I definitely do want to find out what’s going to happen next. And, to see if I can get a handle on the cards! Highly recommend! I was provided a complimentary copy of the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
August 7, 2018
Interesting!
I really enjoyed the concept of this book, and it was very interesting! I liked the characters and of course the relationships between the various characters! I’d be keen on finding out what happens next!
I really enjoyed the concept of this book, and it was very interesting! I liked the characters and of course the relationships between the various characters! I’d be keen on finding out what happens next!
March 2, 2020
Just wasn’t for me.
Started out with the best of intentions, but the chaotic nature of the story, the pacing, and the characters just left me hanging. I thought the premise sounded amazing, however it just wasn’t the book for me.
3.5 stars ⭐️
Started out with the best of intentions, but the chaotic nature of the story, the pacing, and the characters just left me hanging. I thought the premise sounded amazing, however it just wasn’t the book for me.
3.5 stars ⭐️
July 9, 2018
4.5 stars - Review to come but I really liked this, it totally captured my interest. Great UF series starter with a completely different kind of immortals and a cool magic system and just a touch of romance. Thank goodness book two is out in October.
ARC via Netgalley released 7/24/2018
ARC via Netgalley released 7/24/2018
August 28, 2018
(I thank Netgalley and 47North for sending me the ARC in exchange for my honest review)
Some books you know you’re going to love, just after having read the first sentence! That was the case with « The Serpent », which was an excellent read, and an excellent first book in The Immortal Dealers’ series.
I love urban fantasy and was quite peeved to see, some years ago, the genre withering, absorbed by the bitlitt one (vampire, sex, blood, and… more sex). So I’m always very pleased and excited to begin a good new series, inventive and clever, where sex and dominant kinds of relationship aren’t the fundamentals of the story.
I found only one weak point book in the book: the romance which, if sincere and credible, without instalove or heavy inappropriate sighs and sexe stuff, didn’t touch me very much. As its development is discrete during the book, I didn’t mind it at all but it could maybe have been for complex? (for one point, I believe that a romance between a young person and one who looks young but is very old should be nearly impossible, and treated as such by the author. But then, it’s not a romance and the two protagonists are loveable).
I could have read it in one sitting if I’ve had the time! The main character is endearing and, very importantly for a fantasy story, keeps her priorities straight. She never conveniently forgets what would be crucial for a person in her situation in real life. This fact is no detail for me and made for a very satisfying read.
The magic is very cool! The main idea is brilliant and original (it was for me anyway) with precise rules cleverly used for a maximum of interest and unexpected development. I loved that magic was not to be learned in books but by practicing it, using one’s instinct and creativity. The animals’ part in the magic was great too, quite fun and surprising, and Ernie’s relationship with err… not a fluffy bunny was just great! (yes; better than the one with the love interest, now you mention it ^-^)
The end of the book ends nicely, opening for a second book I’ll be happy to read!
Some books you know you’re going to love, just after having read the first sentence! That was the case with « The Serpent », which was an excellent read, and an excellent first book in The Immortal Dealers’ series.
I love urban fantasy and was quite peeved to see, some years ago, the genre withering, absorbed by the bitlitt one (vampire, sex, blood, and… more sex). So I’m always very pleased and excited to begin a good new series, inventive and clever, where sex and dominant kinds of relationship aren’t the fundamentals of the story.
I found only one weak point book in the book: the romance which, if sincere and credible, without instalove or heavy inappropriate sighs and sexe stuff, didn’t touch me very much. As its development is discrete during the book, I didn’t mind it at all but it could maybe have been for complex? (for one point, I believe that a romance between a young person and one who looks young but is very old should be nearly impossible, and treated as such by the author. But then, it’s not a romance and the two protagonists are loveable).
I could have read it in one sitting if I’ve had the time! The main character is endearing and, very importantly for a fantasy story, keeps her priorities straight. She never conveniently forgets what would be crucial for a person in her situation in real life. This fact is no detail for me and made for a very satisfying read.
The magic is very cool! The main idea is brilliant and original (it was for me anyway) with precise rules cleverly used for a maximum of interest and unexpected development. I loved that magic was not to be learned in books but by practicing it, using one’s instinct and creativity. The animals’ part in the magic was great too, quite fun and surprising, and Ernie’s relationship with err… not a fluffy bunny was just great! (yes; better than the one with the love interest, now you mention it ^-^)
The end of the book ends nicely, opening for a second book I’ll be happy to read!
December 16, 2022
2.5 stars
Sarah Fine’s novel The Serpent is the first book in an urban fantasy trilogy loosely inspired by tarot cards.
Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger is living a pretty average life. Looking after her eccentric mother takes work, but Ernie can handle it – right up until things go from “eccentric” to downright strange. One moment Ernie is picking up an unusual looking deck of cards and the next, she’s being stalked and threatened by a secretive group of immortal beings. Ones her mom seems to know an awful lot about…
In many ways, The Serpent is an average urban fantasy novel. Some elements of the world building are fun and refreshing, but Fine struggled with the execution. The combination of magical card decks and their associated animal familiars felt random and thrown together. I imagine that Sarah Fine will pull back the curtain on how it all fits together in the sequel but since I’m not planning on reading it, I’ll never know. Conceptually, the magical card deck is cool but if that’s the main draw, it’s been done better (see Jenn Stark’s Getting Wilde).
I can forgive somewhat muddled world building, but what really holds The Serpent back is its uninteresting characters. Ernie, her allies, and her enemies – they were all painfully average. Ernie is likeable, down on her luck, and powered by sarcasm. Her love interest Gabe is alluring and mysterious, with a cute Irish accent. Ernie’s family is, predictably, keeping secrets from her that will ultimately put them all in danger. Sound familiar? It should, because these characters could slot seamlessly into half of all urban fantasy stories. I’m not too proud to admit that I love a good character archetype or tropes – when they’re done well.
Unfortunately, The Serpent missed the mark for me.
Sarah Fine’s novel The Serpent is the first book in an urban fantasy trilogy loosely inspired by tarot cards.
Ernestine “Ernie” Terwilliger is living a pretty average life. Looking after her eccentric mother takes work, but Ernie can handle it – right up until things go from “eccentric” to downright strange. One moment Ernie is picking up an unusual looking deck of cards and the next, she’s being stalked and threatened by a secretive group of immortal beings. Ones her mom seems to know an awful lot about…
In many ways, The Serpent is an average urban fantasy novel. Some elements of the world building are fun and refreshing, but Fine struggled with the execution. The combination of magical card decks and their associated animal familiars felt random and thrown together. I imagine that Sarah Fine will pull back the curtain on how it all fits together in the sequel but since I’m not planning on reading it, I’ll never know. Conceptually, the magical card deck is cool but if that’s the main draw, it’s been done better (see Jenn Stark’s Getting Wilde).
I can forgive somewhat muddled world building, but what really holds The Serpent back is its uninteresting characters. Ernie, her allies, and her enemies – they were all painfully average. Ernie is likeable, down on her luck, and powered by sarcasm. Her love interest Gabe is alluring and mysterious, with a cute Irish accent. Ernie’s family is, predictably, keeping secrets from her that will ultimately put them all in danger. Sound familiar? It should, because these characters could slot seamlessly into half of all urban fantasy stories. I’m not too proud to admit that I love a good character archetype or tropes – when they’re done well.
Unfortunately, The Serpent missed the mark for me.
June 25, 2018
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Having enjoyed books by Sarah Fine in the past, I was excited to see she was releasing another urban fantasy series, and even more pumped when I saw how creative the concept was. Reading the book, it was obvious Fine took the time to develop an interesting and innovative magic system unlike anything I had ever seen before. I truly believe this series can be amazing. However, I think this first installment was a little weak.
Insofar, Ernie hasn't been that likeable or relateable of a protagonist. She had her moments, but her playing the victim as often as she did (albeit, usually rightfully so), and the lack of teamwork was aggravating. She was incredibly indecisive in trusting Gabe, but still managed to begin a romantic relationship with him for some reason. Additionally, Gabe and Ernie's Dealer allies were so against one another, fighting more amongst one another than against the villain, that I found them difficult to like as well.
Overall, I really love the magic system and concept, but the characters have made this book difficult to love.
2.5/5
Having enjoyed books by Sarah Fine in the past, I was excited to see she was releasing another urban fantasy series, and even more pumped when I saw how creative the concept was. Reading the book, it was obvious Fine took the time to develop an interesting and innovative magic system unlike anything I had ever seen before. I truly believe this series can be amazing. However, I think this first installment was a little weak.
Insofar, Ernie hasn't been that likeable or relateable of a protagonist. She had her moments, but her playing the victim as often as she did (albeit, usually rightfully so), and the lack of teamwork was aggravating. She was incredibly indecisive in trusting Gabe, but still managed to begin a romantic relationship with him for some reason. Additionally, Gabe and Ernie's Dealer allies were so against one another, fighting more amongst one another than against the villain, that I found them difficult to like as well.
Overall, I really love the magic system and concept, but the characters have made this book difficult to love.
2.5/5
July 25, 2018
3.75 stars.
Overall I liked the premise, which is why I'm rounding up... but it just had a certain... well pokemon'y feel I guess... Being a nerd myself that won't stop me from continuing on to book 2 when it's released, but I won't be waiting with baited breath.
Overall I liked the premise, which is why I'm rounding up... but it just had a certain... well pokemon'y feel I guess... Being a nerd myself that won't stop me from continuing on to book 2 when it's released, but I won't be waiting with baited breath.
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