What do you think?
Rate this book
The Devil's Revolver #2
The Devil's Standoff
Welcome to the birthplace of the Devil’s Revolver, where magic is draining from the land and untold danger lurks for our truly unforgettable gunslinger heroine, Hettie Alabama. The second book in the Devil's Revolver series follows Hettie and her crew south of the Wall into Mexico, where they must unmake the Devil's Revolver while confronting a magic- and land-hungry army and a monster from hell drawn to the infernal powers of Hettie's mage gun.
360 pages, Paperback
Published April 2, 2018
5 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
V.S. McGrath
5 books35 followersV. S. McGrath, is a published romance author (as Vicki Essex), and has six books with Harlequin Superromance: Her Son’s Hero (July 2011), Back to the Good Fortune Diner (January 2013), which was picked for the Smart Bitches Trashy Books Sizzling Book Club, In Her Corner (March 2014), A Recipe for Reunion (March 2015), Red Carpet Arrangement (January 2016) and Matinees with Miriam (November 2016). She lives in Toronto, Canada.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 26, 2018
The Devil's standoff is the sequel to the Devils revolver. It's a continuous story and I'd recommend reading book one first.
Hettie manages to get her sister back after she was kidnapped (book one), but a price was paid for her life. Now, Hettie, her sister and "uncle" are trying to reach safety. They have enlisted the help of a bounty hunter who may hold the answers to their problems. Both Hettie and her sister, Abby have been cursed, but in different ways. Hettie is hoping to track someone down who may be able to help her with her Devils revolver. They are travelling to Mexico to the birthplace of her curse. This book is full of twists and turns. Magic is a big part of the story but the western feel is also still there. Hettie is a tough chick and is trying to protect her sister. The new location brings new problems but also friends that may be able to help as Hettie's journey continues.
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. I think this is because I was more in tune with the story. The story is so unique and to build the world of not only the cowboy western but also magic. There is so much that could be said about this series but it's hard to explain. At times the book is mundane with cowboy activities and village life, but in the next instalment, there's voodoo. Some characters have magical powers and some want a normal life. I haven't read anything like it and I really enjoyed this instalment. 4.5 stars out of 5.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hettie manages to get her sister back after she was kidnapped (book one), but a price was paid for her life. Now, Hettie, her sister and "uncle" are trying to reach safety. They have enlisted the help of a bounty hunter who may hold the answers to their problems. Both Hettie and her sister, Abby have been cursed, but in different ways. Hettie is hoping to track someone down who may be able to help her with her Devils revolver. They are travelling to Mexico to the birthplace of her curse. This book is full of twists and turns. Magic is a big part of the story but the western feel is also still there. Hettie is a tough chick and is trying to protect her sister. The new location brings new problems but also friends that may be able to help as Hettie's journey continues.
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. I think this is because I was more in tune with the story. The story is so unique and to build the world of not only the cowboy western but also magic. There is so much that could be said about this series but it's hard to explain. At times the book is mundane with cowboy activities and village life, but in the next instalment, there's voodoo. Some characters have magical powers and some want a normal life. I haven't read anything like it and I really enjoyed this instalment. 4.5 stars out of 5.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Read
April 7, 2018This is a tremendous read: a brutal fantasy Western with complex magic, twisty plotting, flawed characters, impossible problems, and some spectacularly nasty meanies including the magical Wall between the US and Mexico which...good lord. (Mexico built it, very reasonably.) Also doesn't shy away from really gritty unpleasantness in the racism and colonialism on display. Hettie is a wonderful character, buffetted by forces she can't control or understand, trying to do the right thing with a demonic pistol in her hand and a vampiric sister sucking her blood. No easy moral absolutes here.
I really want there to be another book, I am not nearly done with this world and its hot-mess characters. Loved it.
I really want there to be another book, I am not nearly done with this world and its hot-mess characters. Loved it.
June 1, 2018
Hettie and her cohorts follow Walker to Mexico so that his father can remove Hettie's connection to the Devil's Revolver. Or at least that's what they planned on. Most of this book takes place in Walker's home town. I found the writing tighter than the first book. Despite the book taking place in one location, I found the action even more intense and the book, overall, just better written.
I'm still digging the supernatural West McGrath has crafted. All of the characters are flawed, she doesn't shy away from the colonialism or racism of the past, or the sheer brutality of the era. There's more world building as we head to Mexico. It has a different feel to it, more of a lawlessness to it. All in all, a great series. I'm very much looking forward to a third book.
I'm still digging the supernatural West McGrath has crafted. All of the characters are flawed, she doesn't shy away from the colonialism or racism of the past, or the sheer brutality of the era. There's more world building as we head to Mexico. It has a different feel to it, more of a lawlessness to it. All in all, a great series. I'm very much looking forward to a third book.
January 5, 2019
3.5 Stars
Review:
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This has not influenced my review.*
This series is a wonderfully unique blend of western gunslinging and magic. It's so much fun seeing the alternate version of our world this author has created and how magic has impacted society and people's ways of life.
This sequel was rather different from the first book since it took place mostly in a village in Mexico rather than the American Frontier. While it did slow down the pace and give the plot somewhat of a meandering feel, it was neat getting to see how this little, close-knit, fairly isolated community worked, and it kept things fresh by and giving Hettie different sorts of problems to deal with instead of more running and chasing. It also let the reader learn more about this fictional world and brought some new characters into the story.
Speaking of the characters, both the old and the new were three-dimensional and imperfect. A lot of them made mistakes. Some of them tried to atone for those mistakes as best as they could. Hettie frustrated me with a few questionable decisions she made, but she was still a brave, headstrong heroine who prioritized her sister's safety above all else, which was admirable, and who was willing to put herself at risk to help others. Walker went through some struggles but also some growth. Uncle was his usual gruff-but-caring-in-his-own-way self. Ling was trying to do what was best, even if he wasn't always sure what "best" was. Raul, a new character, could be overbearing, but he cared about his village. Even Hettie's gun had a bit more personality this time, which I thought was interesting.
Another thing I liked were all the surprises and small twists! I also found the whole story to be pretty unpredictable. I was never sure what would happen next, how certain relationships would turn out, or what different characters might do. I like being kept on my toes, unable to predict the outcomes of everything.
Overall, this was another enjoyable, well-written book in this magic-filled western series!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in V.S. McGrath's The Devil's Revolver series. Anyone who likes the Old West, magic, headstrong heroines, and motley crews.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This has not influenced my review.*
This series is a wonderfully unique blend of western gunslinging and magic. It's so much fun seeing the alternate version of our world this author has created and how magic has impacted society and people's ways of life.
This sequel was rather different from the first book since it took place mostly in a village in Mexico rather than the American Frontier. While it did slow down the pace and give the plot somewhat of a meandering feel, it was neat getting to see how this little, close-knit, fairly isolated community worked, and it kept things fresh by and giving Hettie different sorts of problems to deal with instead of more running and chasing. It also let the reader learn more about this fictional world and brought some new characters into the story.
Speaking of the characters, both the old and the new were three-dimensional and imperfect. A lot of them made mistakes. Some of them tried to atone for those mistakes as best as they could. Hettie frustrated me with a few questionable decisions she made, but she was still a brave, headstrong heroine who prioritized her sister's safety above all else, which was admirable, and who was willing to put herself at risk to help others. Walker went through some struggles but also some growth. Uncle was his usual gruff-but-caring-in-his-own-way self. Ling was trying to do what was best, even if he wasn't always sure what "best" was. Raul, a new character, could be overbearing, but he cared about his village. Even Hettie's gun had a bit more personality this time, which I thought was interesting.
Another thing I liked were all the surprises and small twists! I also found the whole story to be pretty unpredictable. I was never sure what would happen next, how certain relationships would turn out, or what different characters might do. I like being kept on my toes, unable to predict the outcomes of everything.
Overall, this was another enjoyable, well-written book in this magic-filled western series!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in V.S. McGrath's The Devil's Revolver series. Anyone who likes the Old West, magic, headstrong heroines, and motley crews.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
March 19, 2021
Even more enjoyable than the first installment! This series has quickly become a favorite, and I can't wait to continue with it. I loved the additional storylines that took us away from Hettie and the gang for a few chapters, and how everything is sloooowly coming together while also morphing in form. Also, more legit Red Dead Redemption vibes, which just makes it even more enjoyable. Plus, chupacabras!
August 3, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I absolutely adored the first book in this series, it was an action adventure western with a magical twist. In the second instalment we continue to follow Hettie Alabama and company as she tries to dispose of the devil’s revolver, a gun which ages her a year every time she takes a life using it. But, as her journey continues and takes her to Mexico, her problems just seem to be getting more complicated.
So far this series has got to me one of my favourite discoveries of 2018, which surprises me as I am not normally a fan of young adult books. However, V.S. McGrath has got me hooked on her gritty magical western which follows our heroine Hettie as she saves her sister and ending up bound to a cursed gun along the way.
In The Devil’s Standoff we watch as Hettie encounters different types of problems. She is no longer on the run, she’s now laying low and hiding. Hettie has saved her sister Abbie, at great personal cost, she now has to deal with her…peculiarities and see the dark changes that Abbie’s time being held captive have wrought. As well as this she has to deal with the people in a close knit village. What I liked about this book was that although the pace was a lot slower, it gave the reader a chance to get to know the world and magic in more depth.
Another aspect of this book and so far this series I have enjoyed is the way McGrath portrays her characters. They aren’t perfect. They make some questionable decisions. They are completely flawed, there’s no exemplary hero or heroine always doing the right thing. The world is too complicated and brutal for that and I really like that McGrath gets that across. It makes the characters come to life in a way that a perfect hero or heroine wouldn’t. The characters relationship with each other is also interesting. This isn’t really a romance but I do like the obvious connection that Walker and Hettie have and their own reaction to the almost budding thing between them. It will be interesting to see if that goes further.
There are so many interesting twists and turns in this book, which I won’t go into as I don’t want to spoil. But it has made me really eager to get my hands on the next book. I love that this book is unpredictable, it keeps you on your toes and I can’t wait to find out what Hettie, Abbie, Walker, Ling, Uncle and the rest will do next.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
August 9, 2018
I absolutely adored the first book in this series, it was an action adventure western with a magical twist. In the second instalment we continue to follow Hettie Alabama and company as she tries to dispose of the devil’s revolver, a gun which ages her a year every time she takes a life using it. But, as her journey continues and takes her to Mexico, her problems just seem to be getting more complicated.
So far this series has got to me one of my favourite discoveries of 2018, which surprises me as I am not normally a fan of young adult books. However, V.S. McGrath has got me hooked on her gritty magical western which follows our heroine Hettie as she saves her sister and ending up bound to a cursed gun along the way.
In The Devil’s Standoff we watch as Hettie encounters different types of problems. She is no longer on the run, she’s now laying low and hiding. Hettie has saved her sister Abbie, at great personal cost, she now has to deal with her…peculiarities and see the dark changes that Abbie’s time being held captive have wrought. As well as this she has to deal with the people in a close knit village. What I liked about this book was that although the pace was a lot slower, it gave the reader a chance to get to know the world and magic in more depth.
Another aspect of this book and so far this series I have enjoyed is the way McGrath portrays her characters. They aren’t perfect. They make some questionable decisions. They are completely flawed, there’s no exemplary hero or heroine always doing the right thing. The world is too complicated and brutal for that and I really like that McGrath gets that across. It makes the characters come to life in a way that a perfect hero or heroine wouldn’t. The characters relationship with each other is also interesting. This isn’t really a romance but I do like the obvious connection that Walker and Hettie have and their own reaction to the almost budding thing between them. It will be interesting to see if that goes further.
There are so many interesting twists and turns in this book, which I won’t go into as I don’t want to spoil. But it has made me really eager to get my hands on the next book. I love that this book is unpredictable, it keeps you on your toes and I can’t wait to find out what Hettie, Abbie, Walker, Ling, Uncle and the rest will do next.
So far this series has got to me one of my favourite discoveries of 2018, which surprises me as I am not normally a fan of young adult books. However, V.S. McGrath has got me hooked on her gritty magical western which follows our heroine Hettie as she saves her sister and ending up bound to a cursed gun along the way.
In The Devil’s Standoff we watch as Hettie encounters different types of problems. She is no longer on the run, she’s now laying low and hiding. Hettie has saved her sister Abbie, at great personal cost, she now has to deal with her…peculiarities and see the dark changes that Abbie’s time being held captive have wrought. As well as this she has to deal with the people in a close knit village. What I liked about this book was that although the pace was a lot slower, it gave the reader a chance to get to know the world and magic in more depth.
Another aspect of this book and so far this series I have enjoyed is the way McGrath portrays her characters. They aren’t perfect. They make some questionable decisions. They are completely flawed, there’s no exemplary hero or heroine always doing the right thing. The world is too complicated and brutal for that and I really like that McGrath gets that across. It makes the characters come to life in a way that a perfect hero or heroine wouldn’t. The characters relationship with each other is also interesting. This isn’t really a romance but I do like the obvious connection that Walker and Hettie have and their own reaction to the almost budding thing between them. It will be interesting to see if that goes further.
There are so many interesting twists and turns in this book, which I won’t go into as I don’t want to spoil. But it has made me really eager to get my hands on the next book. I love that this book is unpredictable, it keeps you on your toes and I can’t wait to find out what Hettie, Abbie, Walker, Ling, Uncle and the rest will do next.
June 1, 2018
Thank you Netgalley, Brain Mill Press, and V.S. McGrath for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved that this installment picked up right after the first "The Devil's Revolver" ends as we find the group still running for their lives and trying to come to grips with just happened to them as they are on the road to Villa Del Punta, a desert refuge, in hopes for answers but as we know nothing is ever as easy as it seems.
McGrath still managed to keep me entertained in this one as much as she did on the first and I think she might just have turned me into giving the genre a try as this is my second western book. I still loved the head strong Hettie, the smoldering Walker, the grumpy Uncle Jeb, and younger sister Abby that has a lot more going on than I can say without giving it away but the addition of new characters opens up for more of Walker's past and how it all ties into Diablo, the mage gun, that is still very much bonded and attached to Hettie.
I can only hope that there will be at least a third installment as this one had an open ending and still a very big arc to finish up which I will patiently wait for.
I loved that this installment picked up right after the first "The Devil's Revolver" ends as we find the group still running for their lives and trying to come to grips with just happened to them as they are on the road to Villa Del Punta, a desert refuge, in hopes for answers but as we know nothing is ever as easy as it seems.
McGrath still managed to keep me entertained in this one as much as she did on the first and I think she might just have turned me into giving the genre a try as this is my second western book. I still loved the head strong Hettie, the smoldering Walker, the grumpy Uncle Jeb, and younger sister Abby that has a lot more going on than I can say without giving it away but the addition of new characters opens up for more of Walker's past and how it all ties into Diablo, the mage gun, that is still very much bonded and attached to Hettie.
I can only hope that there will be at least a third installment as this one had an open ending and still a very big arc to finish up which I will patiently wait for.
February 21, 2018
https://koeur.wordpress.com/2018/02/2...
Publisher: Brain Mill Press
Publishing Date: April 2018
ISBN:9781948559010
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.3/5
Publishers Description: Welcome to the birthplace of the Devil’s Revolver, where magic is draining from the land and untold danger lurks for our truly unforgettable gunslinger heroine, Hettie Alabama. The second book in the Devil’s Revolver series follows Hettie and her crew south of the Wall into Mexico, where they must unmake the Devil’s Revolver while confronting a magic- and land-hungry army and a monster from hell drawn to the infernal powers of Hettie’s mage gun.
Review: That cover art diverges quite a bit from the Hettie visualized in the novel.
One reviewer stated that this is “The feminist western you’ve been waiting for…”. Really? I thought it took a left turn from the first novel, headlong into romance. I think blushing and hearts going pitter-pat over silky baritones and ripply muscles is a fair shift away from feminism. But, wtf do I know about feminist ideology? Perhaps there is room for a tough nut female protagonist with a fragile inner core that begs for a manly man to sweep them over the threshold with their musky scents and hard abs.
Well, as Hettie flirts around the edges of jealousy and getting banged it was nice to see the author apply some restraint with regard to her romance writing background. Still, the restraint lacks authenticity and reads like a dime store romance novel. Hettie is cool, complex, opinionated and obstinate. Her stubbornness often lands her in stupid land but that is her allure. So why muck up a great character with romance? I just don’t fuking get it. Now I could get all indignant and rail for hours on the good writers out there that make bad choices, but I will show some restraint and allow for the complexities of artistic license to blah blah blah blah.
At the end of the day, I like Hettie without horny dudes and her sister which speaks volumes about this installment. The next novel sets up pretty good in answering my prayers so here’s to forgetting #2 and picking back up where the genius of #1 left off.
Publisher: Brain Mill Press
Publishing Date: April 2018
ISBN:9781948559010
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.3/5
Publishers Description: Welcome to the birthplace of the Devil’s Revolver, where magic is draining from the land and untold danger lurks for our truly unforgettable gunslinger heroine, Hettie Alabama. The second book in the Devil’s Revolver series follows Hettie and her crew south of the Wall into Mexico, where they must unmake the Devil’s Revolver while confronting a magic- and land-hungry army and a monster from hell drawn to the infernal powers of Hettie’s mage gun.
Review: That cover art diverges quite a bit from the Hettie visualized in the novel.
One reviewer stated that this is “The feminist western you’ve been waiting for…”. Really? I thought it took a left turn from the first novel, headlong into romance. I think blushing and hearts going pitter-pat over silky baritones and ripply muscles is a fair shift away from feminism. But, wtf do I know about feminist ideology? Perhaps there is room for a tough nut female protagonist with a fragile inner core that begs for a manly man to sweep them over the threshold with their musky scents and hard abs.
Well, as Hettie flirts around the edges of jealousy and getting banged it was nice to see the author apply some restraint with regard to her romance writing background. Still, the restraint lacks authenticity and reads like a dime store romance novel. Hettie is cool, complex, opinionated and obstinate. Her stubbornness often lands her in stupid land but that is her allure. So why muck up a great character with romance? I just don’t fuking get it. Now I could get all indignant and rail for hours on the good writers out there that make bad choices, but I will show some restraint and allow for the complexities of artistic license to blah blah blah blah.
At the end of the day, I like Hettie without horny dudes and her sister which speaks volumes about this installment. The next novel sets up pretty good in answering my prayers so here’s to forgetting #2 and picking back up where the genius of #1 left off.
August 23, 2018
When I saw the blog tour announcement from Xpresso Book Tours for The Devil’s Standoff by V.S. McGrath, something about the synopsis (and the incredible cover) just reached out and grabbed me, so I requested to join. Boy, am I ever so glad that I did! I absolutely loved The Devil’s Standoff, as well as the first in the series, The Devil’s Revolver. What a thrill ride! (A quick note: you should definitely read these in order, as they are a continuous story and you will likely be lost if you try to read book two before reading book one.) This series is not the first western that I’ve read, but it’s the first in a long time, to be sure. (Well, now that I think about it, I did read Revenge and the Wild by Michelle Modesto either late last year or early this year, and also loved it, but this series is even darker and weirder and more intense!) These books are also fantasy on top of being westerns, as well as falling in the category of “Weird Western” that seems to have burgeoned a few years ago.
The system of magic and its place in the world of the late 1800s is comprehensive and so well thought out, and I was instantly believing (and kind of wishing) that this alternative world could exist if we humans could only discover the magic around us! The action in both books is basically non-stop, even when the characters are slogging through the desert on the run from the law or murderous gangs or Pinkerton agents (yes, Pinkerton agents! I loved this aspect of the story). Every time you think you can catch your breath, something crazy or dangerous happens, someone gets hurt, someone betrays someone else…it’s just an incredibly tight plot that keeps moving forward relentlessly, and I found myself near powerless to be able to put down my Kindle. Not to mention, the writing is flawless and effortless, and you never find yourself getting hung up on weird metaphors or incorrect word usage or stilted dialogue.
By far my favorite aspect of the series, though, is the characters. Wow. I rooted so hard for Hettie and her family, I rooted against the evil folks, and I was stunned by the revelations that some characters were not what or who they first appeared to be (I think I was shocked by darn near every single one). Hettie was my absolute favorite, which is perhaps to be expected since she is our heroine. She wasn’t fearless - she was most definitely afraid at times - but she absolutely would move mountains and face any of her worst fears to get her sister back and get her to safety. She found herself bonded with a mage gun that, by rights, shouldn’t even exist or be as powerful as it is, since magic and metal aren’t supposed to mix. But mix they did, and Hettie finds herself the reluctant caretaker of el Diablo, the Devil’s Revolver. In this second book, she is focused on getting to the gun’s creator so she can give it back to him and he can relieve her of this burden. And Walker… Walker, Walker, Walker, Walkerrrr…I could read about him over and over, all day long! My heart…I don’t want to spoil anything, so that’s all I’m going to say about it. My. Heart.
After binge reading these first two books, I am now finding myself *desperate* for the next installment! I have big ol’ grabby hands right now, let me tell you! I am so ready to dive back in to Hettie’s world, no matter what happens. As I mentioned in an email to Giselle from Xpresso, this experience right here is precisely why I try to participate in blog tours like this - I don’t know that I would’ve ever come across this series on my own, or that I would’ve picked it up even if I had. But luckily I took a chance, pushed out of my usual comfort zone, and discovered an incredible series that I want to share with everyone I know! I highly recommend this series to anyone and everyone. Whether you’re already a fan of weird westerns or you’ve never picked one up, please give The Devil’s Revolver series a try. It’s an incredible thrill ride!
Rating: 5 magical stars!
**Disclosure: I received e-copies of books one and two from the author for purposes of this blog tour. This review is voluntary on my part and reflects my honest review and rating. Thanks so much to V.S. McGrath and Xpresso Book Tours for letting me take part in this blog tour.
The system of magic and its place in the world of the late 1800s is comprehensive and so well thought out, and I was instantly believing (and kind of wishing) that this alternative world could exist if we humans could only discover the magic around us! The action in both books is basically non-stop, even when the characters are slogging through the desert on the run from the law or murderous gangs or Pinkerton agents (yes, Pinkerton agents! I loved this aspect of the story). Every time you think you can catch your breath, something crazy or dangerous happens, someone gets hurt, someone betrays someone else…it’s just an incredibly tight plot that keeps moving forward relentlessly, and I found myself near powerless to be able to put down my Kindle. Not to mention, the writing is flawless and effortless, and you never find yourself getting hung up on weird metaphors or incorrect word usage or stilted dialogue.
By far my favorite aspect of the series, though, is the characters. Wow. I rooted so hard for Hettie and her family, I rooted against the evil folks, and I was stunned by the revelations that some characters were not what or who they first appeared to be (I think I was shocked by darn near every single one). Hettie was my absolute favorite, which is perhaps to be expected since she is our heroine. She wasn’t fearless - she was most definitely afraid at times - but she absolutely would move mountains and face any of her worst fears to get her sister back and get her to safety. She found herself bonded with a mage gun that, by rights, shouldn’t even exist or be as powerful as it is, since magic and metal aren’t supposed to mix. But mix they did, and Hettie finds herself the reluctant caretaker of el Diablo, the Devil’s Revolver. In this second book, she is focused on getting to the gun’s creator so she can give it back to him and he can relieve her of this burden. And Walker… Walker, Walker, Walker, Walkerrrr…I could read about him over and over, all day long! My heart…I don’t want to spoil anything, so that’s all I’m going to say about it. My. Heart.
After binge reading these first two books, I am now finding myself *desperate* for the next installment! I have big ol’ grabby hands right now, let me tell you! I am so ready to dive back in to Hettie’s world, no matter what happens. As I mentioned in an email to Giselle from Xpresso, this experience right here is precisely why I try to participate in blog tours like this - I don’t know that I would’ve ever come across this series on my own, or that I would’ve picked it up even if I had. But luckily I took a chance, pushed out of my usual comfort zone, and discovered an incredible series that I want to share with everyone I know! I highly recommend this series to anyone and everyone. Whether you’re already a fan of weird westerns or you’ve never picked one up, please give The Devil’s Revolver series a try. It’s an incredible thrill ride!
Rating: 5 magical stars!
**Disclosure: I received e-copies of books one and two from the author for purposes of this blog tour. This review is voluntary on my part and reflects my honest review and rating. Thanks so much to V.S. McGrath and Xpresso Book Tours for letting me take part in this blog tour.
February 28, 2018
This duology is truly amazing. Look no further if you want an action-packed, extremely well written, very emotional, adventure.
I love this book. The characters have so much depth, the new characters we're introduced to are all so vivid and layered, and the plot is twisty, action-packed, thrilling, and intelligent. There is romance (which was nonexistent in the first book) but it's always in the background and - tiny spoiler alert - it doesn't actually end up going anywhere.
The women of this series are amazing. There's so many of them, they're treated as equals, and they're all such badasses. It's awesome. The relationships between everyone (especially the sisterly bond between Abby and Hettie) are also so dynamic and compelling. I particularly love Uncle's gruff but fierce love for the Alabama girls; it's so sweet to see how although he thinks of them as daughters, his personality won't let him show it in obvious ways. It's so endearing.
I love this book. The characters have so much depth, the new characters we're introduced to are all so vivid and layered, and the plot is twisty, action-packed, thrilling, and intelligent. There is romance (which was nonexistent in the first book) but it's always in the background and - tiny spoiler alert - it doesn't actually end up going anywhere.
The women of this series are amazing. There's so many of them, they're treated as equals, and they're all such badasses. It's awesome. The relationships between everyone (especially the sisterly bond between Abby and Hettie) are also so dynamic and compelling. I particularly love Uncle's gruff but fierce love for the Alabama girls; it's so sweet to see how although he thinks of them as daughters, his personality won't let him show it in obvious ways. It's so endearing.
August 23, 2018
The Devil’s Standoff picks up shortly after the end of The Devil’s Revolver, where we see Hettie Alabama, her sister, and companions ‘Uncle Jeremiah, and Walker Woodroffe making their cautious way to the Mexican border, desperate to avoid any attention from either the Pinkerton Agency or the American Division of Sorcery. Events conspire against them, however, and they force their way through a heavily magicked border wall before racing for the home of Javier Punta, where many surprises await them as Hettie holds hope that Javier, the creator of the demon gun, can unmake his creation.
A worthy successor to the first book, The Devil’s Standoff ups the ante at every stage of our heroes’ journey while introducing new, wondrous and terrible magic, and a deeper lore for both the land and the history of El Diablo. I found this book every bit as engrossing as the first. I loved how the magic of the land was fleshed out and how the author developed and interwove separate plotlines for some of the major characters.
If I had any complaints about this story they were that (1) it still played on the trope of characters not telling each other important information to move the plot along, and (2) the love interest between Hettie and Walker seemed forced. This latter bothered me a bit because while I did feel a natural romantic interest developing between them, I didn’t think the author needed to force it more than it would occur through the natural flow of the story. I can only suggest that someone mentioned to the author that female-led YA stories have to have multiple love interests, so she forced a few in. Fortunately, they were quite minor overall, so they didn’t detract significantly from an otherwise excellent story.
The Devil's Standoff is part of a series, but each book stands alone quite well, with each book's major plotlines being wrapped up within that novel.
In conclusion, I’m very happy to have read both books in this series and they’ve been among the best books I’ve read recently. I can’t stress enough that if you like the idea of a wild west filled with blood magic, well-developed lore, a strong female protagonist, and believable characters, this is the series for you.
*** I received a free copy of this book via Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review ***
A worthy successor to the first book, The Devil’s Standoff ups the ante at every stage of our heroes’ journey while introducing new, wondrous and terrible magic, and a deeper lore for both the land and the history of El Diablo. I found this book every bit as engrossing as the first. I loved how the magic of the land was fleshed out and how the author developed and interwove separate plotlines for some of the major characters.
If I had any complaints about this story they were that (1) it still played on the trope of characters not telling each other important information to move the plot along, and (2) the love interest between Hettie and Walker seemed forced. This latter bothered me a bit because while I did feel a natural romantic interest developing between them, I didn’t think the author needed to force it more than it would occur through the natural flow of the story. I can only suggest that someone mentioned to the author that female-led YA stories have to have multiple love interests, so she forced a few in. Fortunately, they were quite minor overall, so they didn’t detract significantly from an otherwise excellent story.
The Devil's Standoff is part of a series, but each book stands alone quite well, with each book's major plotlines being wrapped up within that novel.
In conclusion, I’m very happy to have read both books in this series and they’ve been among the best books I’ve read recently. I can’t stress enough that if you like the idea of a wild west filled with blood magic, well-developed lore, a strong female protagonist, and believable characters, this is the series for you.
*** I received a free copy of this book via Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review ***
July 7, 2018
Hettie and her sister are travelling to Mexico, where the demonic revolver, El Diablo, was first created in the hope they can finally destroy it an Hettie can get her life back
But the journey has complicates - crossing the magical wall into Mexico isn’t easy and despite all their efforts, local politics catches them as a General with a full army behind him is less than happy with the magical independence of Villa Del Punta. And the town itself has divisions inside - not least of which with Walker’s family
And then there’s Abbie; the Indigo child with impossible magical powers growing by the day… and she’s picked up some disturbing habits from her captivity with the Kuklos warlock which is only more worrying...
Hattie is the core of his book and her conflicts and personality are what really gives the whole story so much more depth. We’re reminded that Hattie is very young and utterly out of her depth but equally determined to keep on going for the sake of her sister. She has this really powerful sense of fatalism while still clinging to hope. After her experiences she’s almost given up on her own future. She doesn’t have any long term plans, she doesn’t even seem to consider the future - focusing only on her sister’s survival and ignoring herself almost entirely. Yet at the same time she is clinging so desperately to getting rid of the Diablo and getting her missing years back. And I don’t think it’s worry about aging or dying - but the desperate desire for a do-over, a wish that she could go back to where this story began, before the loss of her family, before the revolver, before she killed people.
On top of that she has her sister Abbie, impossibly, terrifyingly powerful, increasingly out of control with more than a few unsavoury habits and a growing sense of almost desperation.
This is the backbone of the book -and pretty necessary as the pacing has an odd moment in the middle. The journey to Mexico and Villa Del Punto has action, magic and fighting. And the end of the book has some grand reveals and a lot of powerful scenes and epicness. But the middle? It’s kind of flabby and meandering without a lot of forward movement. But it does allow a lot of exploration - especially of Hattie; her trying to fit in with the inhabitants of Villa Del Punta, her dealing with her complicated relationship with Walker, trying to look after Abbie. Facing the fact she doesn’t really trust anyone around her. And even her evolving connection with El Diablo.
It also allows for a lot of world building of magic, the relationship between Mexico and the US as well as the local politics of this world’s Mexico as well: which has some interesting twists including magical areas as a vital resource and how this world with magic has created a much more balanced tension between the US and Mexico. In fact, there’s a wall across the Mexican border built by the Mexicans to keep Americans out. I do like to see how our world would differ if magic is introduced to history; how wars and conflicts would be completely different when the power is so changed.
We also get to explore the magic system some more as well as the nature of both the demonic and the angelic.
It’s still kind of flabby in the middle since it basically involves Hattie and Abbie settling into the village, slowly winning over the people’s trust, learning about magic, learning about Walker’s past, his relationship to the sorcerer who created Diablo and, of course, his step brother who rules the town and there’s some tension there. Not a lot happens but it’s ok; it allows the characters to grow and learn especially after all the action of the last book. And the action beginning and ending the book which is full of war, and fighting and magic and guns to definitely make up for a slow middle
I like that Hettie does meet several women in Villa del Punta and generally respects them… while I’m not thrilled by Julia. A clear love interest of Walker’s we get a definite hint of jealousy from Hettie which she handles really well and we have a great point of it being hettie’s issue and not the objectionable fault of Julia. Still the ending does kind of have a sense of vindication for Hettie and demonisation of her.
We also learn a lot more about Ling’s background, his experiences as a Chinese immigrant in America, the prejudices he experiences even with his magic and rank - which this book also excellently developed into a prejudice against “Celestial” magic. He also brings his deeply terrible experiences with the magical academy which adds a lot of conflict to his job to bring Abbie in. As well as the conflict that comes from comparing this terrible fate with the terrible things Abbie may do if untrained.
Read More
But the journey has complicates - crossing the magical wall into Mexico isn’t easy and despite all their efforts, local politics catches them as a General with a full army behind him is less than happy with the magical independence of Villa Del Punta. And the town itself has divisions inside - not least of which with Walker’s family
And then there’s Abbie; the Indigo child with impossible magical powers growing by the day… and she’s picked up some disturbing habits from her captivity with the Kuklos warlock which is only more worrying...
Hattie is the core of his book and her conflicts and personality are what really gives the whole story so much more depth. We’re reminded that Hattie is very young and utterly out of her depth but equally determined to keep on going for the sake of her sister. She has this really powerful sense of fatalism while still clinging to hope. After her experiences she’s almost given up on her own future. She doesn’t have any long term plans, she doesn’t even seem to consider the future - focusing only on her sister’s survival and ignoring herself almost entirely. Yet at the same time she is clinging so desperately to getting rid of the Diablo and getting her missing years back. And I don’t think it’s worry about aging or dying - but the desperate desire for a do-over, a wish that she could go back to where this story began, before the loss of her family, before the revolver, before she killed people.
On top of that she has her sister Abbie, impossibly, terrifyingly powerful, increasingly out of control with more than a few unsavoury habits and a growing sense of almost desperation.
This is the backbone of the book -and pretty necessary as the pacing has an odd moment in the middle. The journey to Mexico and Villa Del Punto has action, magic and fighting. And the end of the book has some grand reveals and a lot of powerful scenes and epicness. But the middle? It’s kind of flabby and meandering without a lot of forward movement. But it does allow a lot of exploration - especially of Hattie; her trying to fit in with the inhabitants of Villa Del Punta, her dealing with her complicated relationship with Walker, trying to look after Abbie. Facing the fact she doesn’t really trust anyone around her. And even her evolving connection with El Diablo.
It also allows for a lot of world building of magic, the relationship between Mexico and the US as well as the local politics of this world’s Mexico as well: which has some interesting twists including magical areas as a vital resource and how this world with magic has created a much more balanced tension between the US and Mexico. In fact, there’s a wall across the Mexican border built by the Mexicans to keep Americans out. I do like to see how our world would differ if magic is introduced to history; how wars and conflicts would be completely different when the power is so changed.
We also get to explore the magic system some more as well as the nature of both the demonic and the angelic.
It’s still kind of flabby in the middle since it basically involves Hattie and Abbie settling into the village, slowly winning over the people’s trust, learning about magic, learning about Walker’s past, his relationship to the sorcerer who created Diablo and, of course, his step brother who rules the town and there’s some tension there. Not a lot happens but it’s ok; it allows the characters to grow and learn especially after all the action of the last book. And the action beginning and ending the book which is full of war, and fighting and magic and guns to definitely make up for a slow middle
I like that Hettie does meet several women in Villa del Punta and generally respects them… while I’m not thrilled by Julia. A clear love interest of Walker’s we get a definite hint of jealousy from Hettie which she handles really well and we have a great point of it being hettie’s issue and not the objectionable fault of Julia. Still the ending does kind of have a sense of vindication for Hettie and demonisation of her.
We also learn a lot more about Ling’s background, his experiences as a Chinese immigrant in America, the prejudices he experiences even with his magic and rank - which this book also excellently developed into a prejudice against “Celestial” magic. He also brings his deeply terrible experiences with the magical academy which adds a lot of conflict to his job to bring Abbie in. As well as the conflict that comes from comparing this terrible fate with the terrible things Abbie may do if untrained.
Read More
February 24, 2018
Review for The Devil's Revolver: Not my usual fare - there are a few writers of westerns I frequent, but I find most westerns too moribund with clichés for me to enjoy. This series however definitely comes under the "weird western" category.. There's a steampunk feel about it - although magic substitutes as the power source of this version of the Wild West. There's magic, deviltry, and a wall across the Mexican border to keep the USA out! My only quibble is that there is too much reliance on plot complexity being generated by the over-used device of taciturn protagonists concealing information for no real reason. Apart from that, I liked the characters, and I liked what is, despite ostensibly being set within our geography, a pretty good job of world-building. Actually, the more I think about it, Hettie Alabama's little posse is really a fantasy quest group transplanted to the US/Mexico Borderlands as they might be if magic ran through the world.
The second book in the series has exactly the same virtues and vices (more of the former than the latter) as the first. As before, a few quibbles, but still an enjoyable read.
The second book in the series has exactly the same virtues and vices (more of the former than the latter) as the first. As before, a few quibbles, but still an enjoyable read.
July 5, 2019
The western story dozed with magic, of a gunslinger and her gang continues in this second installment in a different setting.
I was worried about the change of settings because rarely does characters in the books I have read have a complete change of scenery, but my worries were unnecessary. The change in setting gave our characters especially Hettie, a new set of problems to solve and deal with moving the story along without hindering the plot.
The magic system set around the revolver was the most fascinating. Hettie is set to lose a year of her life every time she uses the revolver and it seems to have some sort of awareness. Not necessarily alive but awake. Knowing.
Hettie and her gang are no heroes. Neither are they villains. They are good people who make questionable decisions as well as take questionable actions. They each have grown according to the harsh reality their world is.
My sighs of bored increased because the pacing slowed which was strongly due to the change of setting, so readers may be allowed to get a feel for Mexico and the magic way things worked. However, I felt some parts were not needed allowing the book to be shortened by maybe twenty pages.
Summary: a great read for people looking to step outside of their usual reading comfort zone and people who are in need of some adventure and action without the hindrance of kisses and declarations of love.
Blog| Twitter| Instagram
I was worried about the change of settings because rarely does characters in the books I have read have a complete change of scenery, but my worries were unnecessary. The change in setting gave our characters especially Hettie, a new set of problems to solve and deal with moving the story along without hindering the plot.
The magic system set around the revolver was the most fascinating. Hettie is set to lose a year of her life every time she uses the revolver and it seems to have some sort of awareness. Not necessarily alive but awake. Knowing.
Hettie and her gang are no heroes. Neither are they villains. They are good people who make questionable decisions as well as take questionable actions. They each have grown according to the harsh reality their world is.
My sighs of bored increased because the pacing slowed which was strongly due to the change of setting, so readers may be allowed to get a feel for Mexico and the magic way things worked. However, I felt some parts were not needed allowing the book to be shortened by maybe twenty pages.
Summary: a great read for people looking to step outside of their usual reading comfort zone and people who are in need of some adventure and action without the hindrance of kisses and declarations of love.
Blog| Twitter| Instagram
October 18, 2023
The Devil’s Standoff is the second book in the series The Devil’s Revolver. The first chapter continues right where the last book had left off. This continuation of the story doesn’t feel abrupt. However, I suggest reading the first book beforehand since there will be important details that arrive later in the story. The book doesn’t leech off the previous story, allowing a new setting and plot to arrive. The characters keep to their established personalities, doing nothing out of character.
I suggest reading the series! It is set in a Western world, perhaps around the 1850s. However, this isn’t your standard gun show. There’s magic added to the world. Not extremely overpowered, yet still being interesting, involving itself greatly in the plot. Anything the standard reader might not fully grasp is explained through the PoV of our Main character, Hettie Alabama. The story is easy to follow, staying on the path it carves for itself, never straying too far from its intent.
In the Story we follow Hettie Alamama, whose only wish is to keep her sister safe, along with getting rid of her cursed Devil’s revolver. Ignoring the devil’s gun even when it tries to convince her to shoot first, and ask questions later. The group she has with her includes her Uncle, Woodrolf Walker, and her sister Abby. Without spoiling much, I can say that this book deserves a 5/5.
I suggest reading the series! It is set in a Western world, perhaps around the 1850s. However, this isn’t your standard gun show. There’s magic added to the world. Not extremely overpowered, yet still being interesting, involving itself greatly in the plot. Anything the standard reader might not fully grasp is explained through the PoV of our Main character, Hettie Alabama. The story is easy to follow, staying on the path it carves for itself, never straying too far from its intent.
In the Story we follow Hettie Alamama, whose only wish is to keep her sister safe, along with getting rid of her cursed Devil’s revolver. Ignoring the devil’s gun even when it tries to convince her to shoot first, and ask questions later. The group she has with her includes her Uncle, Woodrolf Walker, and her sister Abby. Without spoiling much, I can say that this book deserves a 5/5.
June 4, 2023
The Devil's Standoff
The Devil's Revolver, Book 2
By: V. S. McGrath
Narrated by: Autumn McNamara
Stunning! And I want MORE!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 06-03-23
Beautifully written, stunningly imaginative, fast moving, engrossing and deeply emotional, this brilliant continuation of The Devil’s Revolver series does not disappoint! The characters I grew to care so deeply about in book one are back for more in “The Devils Standoff”! But, the goodness doesn’t stop there! There are a whole passel, or three, of newbie’s … some good, some not so much … but ALL equally brilliant in their development and definition, that I LOVED getting to know in this story! As with book one, the action and emotion were plentiful, the story easily understandable, and the scene setting beautifully descriptive! Everything I needed to keep me blissfully “in” the story, and leave me with no unanswered questions was beautifully present, and executed perfectly! The narration served as the beautiful icing on a perfect cake, beautifully bringing both the story, and these fascinating characters, to sparkling, glorious life! I really loved everything about this luscious listen and can’t wait for more! Five fantastic stars!
The Devil's Revolver, Book 2
By: V. S. McGrath
Narrated by: Autumn McNamara
Stunning! And I want MORE!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 06-03-23
Beautifully written, stunningly imaginative, fast moving, engrossing and deeply emotional, this brilliant continuation of The Devil’s Revolver series does not disappoint! The characters I grew to care so deeply about in book one are back for more in “The Devils Standoff”! But, the goodness doesn’t stop there! There are a whole passel, or three, of newbie’s … some good, some not so much … but ALL equally brilliant in their development and definition, that I LOVED getting to know in this story! As with book one, the action and emotion were plentiful, the story easily understandable, and the scene setting beautifully descriptive! Everything I needed to keep me blissfully “in” the story, and leave me with no unanswered questions was beautifully present, and executed perfectly! The narration served as the beautiful icing on a perfect cake, beautifully bringing both the story, and these fascinating characters, to sparkling, glorious life! I really loved everything about this luscious listen and can’t wait for more! Five fantastic stars!
March 22, 2018
I can’t not give 5 stars.
It’s not easy to find a fresh captivating book nowadays. This series is exactly that. I hope there will be at least one next book because there are so many things open and.. I just like more romance in books and here is definitely room for it.
Big thanks goes to Netgalley for this ARC.
It’s not easy to find a fresh captivating book nowadays. This series is exactly that. I hope there will be at least one next book because there are so many things open and.. I just like more romance in books and here is definitely room for it.
Big thanks goes to Netgalley for this ARC.
May 4, 2018
Searing Western fantasy adventure for fans of Wake of Vultures.
November 25, 2020
Just as much of a page-turner as the first... Loved it!
March 8, 2022
took two books for hettie and walker to kiss and then thirty pages later they get split up anyway. i guess this is what i get for getting invested in a het couple. i’m so butthurt
March 31, 2024
V.S. McGrath’s sequel is captivating! What another page-turner, with lines like (spoiler alert!) “…he kept his lips tight to hold in the scream climbing up this throat.” How can you not keep reading?! Hettie is maturing and begins to self-reflect, but McGrath is able to keep Hettie’s independent character consistent. I love Hettie’s reactions when the men try to dismiss her or even help her without her asking. McGrath cleverly uses the other characters to give us a picture of Hettie’s and Abby’s personalities. Ingenious! She elicits emotions from the reader as she covers topics like sibling rivalry, abandonment, loss, revenge, being beholden, duality and separation versus unity, trust, guilt and shame.
The amount of research McGrath puts into this book—the railroad history, indigo abilities, Asclepius, electroconvulsive therapy, the cultures and new age concepts—wow. McGrath’s explanation for the source of magic encompasses diverse histories as well as current beliefs. The way she weaves in historical, political, social, economic, and humanitarian ideas is commendable. It is interesting to have the reader see the US-Mexico border from a different perspective. Even her use of the chupacabra (monster) has an eye-opening twist.
spoiler: Another aspect that’s great about the book are her phrases—so setting-appropriate (e.g., “grit whispered over the stones,” “wrapped up in self-importance,” “across hell’s half acre”). Candy for my eyes! The names are symbolic and so well-chosen, too, like the names of the horses. You’ll see what I mean. There are several lines that I had to highlight because they were just so poignant.
All this to say, READ THE BOOK!
The amount of research McGrath puts into this book—the railroad history, indigo abilities, Asclepius, electroconvulsive therapy, the cultures and new age concepts—wow. McGrath’s explanation for the source of magic encompasses diverse histories as well as current beliefs. The way she weaves in historical, political, social, economic, and humanitarian ideas is commendable. It is interesting to have the reader see the US-Mexico border from a different perspective. Even her use of the chupacabra (monster) has an eye-opening twist.
spoiler: Another aspect that’s great about the book are her phrases—so setting-appropriate (e.g., “grit whispered over the stones,” “wrapped up in self-importance,” “across hell’s half acre”). Candy for my eyes! The names are symbolic and so well-chosen, too, like the names of the horses. You’ll see what I mean. There are several lines that I had to highlight because they were just so poignant.
All this to say, READ THE BOOK!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2018
The second book of the Devil's Revolver series, starts with a whimper more than a bang. That's probably only to be expected when you're running in circles through the desert trying to shake any and all pursuers. The desert is not just a good place to hide outlaws like Hettie, it's also well-suited to disguising foreshadowing as something less significant. And there are always oasis and rocky outcroppings providing temporary havens.
Most of the action in The Deveil's Standoff takes place in just such a refuge. Villa del Punta is much more than just a refuge, however. It's Walker's past, Hettie's present and...well, we'll just have to wait and see whose future it turns out to be. There's a lot going on here, much of it beneath the surface and all tied up with family, magic and expectations. Love plays a big role in this book, but not always the way it should. As for happy endings...it is a middle book. Nothing much get resolved and stays resolved, which keeps things interesting even though it's not totally satisfying for the reader.
The continuing adventures of Hettie Alabama and her magic gun are definitely worth following. The Devil's Standoff isn't as fast reading or engrossing as The Devil's Revolver but it is still a good story, well worth your time. Despite the setting, this book feels more like a dusty fantasy or alternative science fiction story than western, as even the titular revolver is trasformed. this isn't just more of the same although there are enough similarities that the story won't quite stand on it's own. Readers are definitely left wondering what will happen next.
Most of the action in The Deveil's Standoff takes place in just such a refuge. Villa del Punta is much more than just a refuge, however. It's Walker's past, Hettie's present and...well, we'll just have to wait and see whose future it turns out to be. There's a lot going on here, much of it beneath the surface and all tied up with family, magic and expectations. Love plays a big role in this book, but not always the way it should. As for happy endings...it is a middle book. Nothing much get resolved and stays resolved, which keeps things interesting even though it's not totally satisfying for the reader.
The continuing adventures of Hettie Alabama and her magic gun are definitely worth following. The Devil's Standoff isn't as fast reading or engrossing as The Devil's Revolver but it is still a good story, well worth your time. Despite the setting, this book feels more like a dusty fantasy or alternative science fiction story than western, as even the titular revolver is trasformed. this isn't just more of the same although there are enough similarities that the story won't quite stand on it's own. Readers are definitely left wondering what will happen next.
March 17, 2018
While westerns are not my go-to reading experiences, this one was quite enjoyable, blending in elements of science fiction. I also appreciated the powerful female characters who anchor the story. It’s fun, adventurous, and well done - and all part of a larger series.
August 26, 2018
The Devil's Standoff by VS McGrath finds Hettie and her companions in Mexico, at the village of Villa del Punta. They've come at the behest of Walker Woodroffe, to return Diablo to its creator, Javier Punta. He wishes to unmake his deadly creation. But Punta is in a coma, and a vicious cryptid is stalking the area around the village, perhaps drawn to the magical energy node there. The longer Hettie and her friends linger, the more in danger they become. Her sister, Abby, needs training to control her increasingly erratic magical gifts. She begins to learn from Raul, Walker's brother, and the resident sorcerer in charge of training the Village’s gifted children. But the threat of the chupas is growing, and they have human stalkers as well, intent on acquiring both Diablo and Abby.
This sequel was a fast paced thrill-ride that left me craving more. I love this world McGrath has introduced us to. It's full of magic, blended with the tech of the time. This story brought us to the wilds of Mexico, and introduced cryptids in the form of chupacabra. I love when stories make use of the more unusual cryptids out there! The village itself is a fascinating place, sheltered by a strong barrier spell, and flush with trapped magic used to help crops grow and gather water. It seemed harsh, yet peaceful. A place I wouldn't mind living actually.
I admit, I'm growing to dislike Abby. I know she's young, but she's old enough to understand responsibility. Her magic is dangerous in its wild, undisciplined form, and Hettie's misguided act of love made her even more of a threat. As for Hettie, she's experiencing all kinds of uncertainty, partially stemming from her accelerated aging. She's gone from a teenager to a twenty-something adult, with no time to process or appreciate the changes in body and physiology. Walker's brother Raul turned into a favourite, despite some of his own rather misguided actions. He did what he did for his people, to protect them. We also get to learn more about Zavi, whom we met in the previous book. His history was rather unexpected, to say the least. Diablo has become more defined as a character in its own right. I'm interested to see its end game. Diablo chose Hettie, and listens to her, going against its nature. Yet, for all that, she still wants free of it, and speaks of destroying it. I kinda felt bad for Diablo, knowing it's sentience, and willingness to go against its nature, giving Hettie more than any other who has wielded it.
I want the next one now!!!!
***Many thanks to Netgalley and Brain Mill Press for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Reviewed for XPresso Tours.
This sequel was a fast paced thrill-ride that left me craving more. I love this world McGrath has introduced us to. It's full of magic, blended with the tech of the time. This story brought us to the wilds of Mexico, and introduced cryptids in the form of chupacabra. I love when stories make use of the more unusual cryptids out there! The village itself is a fascinating place, sheltered by a strong barrier spell, and flush with trapped magic used to help crops grow and gather water. It seemed harsh, yet peaceful. A place I wouldn't mind living actually.
I admit, I'm growing to dislike Abby. I know she's young, but she's old enough to understand responsibility. Her magic is dangerous in its wild, undisciplined form, and Hettie's misguided act of love made her even more of a threat. As for Hettie, she's experiencing all kinds of uncertainty, partially stemming from her accelerated aging. She's gone from a teenager to a twenty-something adult, with no time to process or appreciate the changes in body and physiology. Walker's brother Raul turned into a favourite, despite some of his own rather misguided actions. He did what he did for his people, to protect them. We also get to learn more about Zavi, whom we met in the previous book. His history was rather unexpected, to say the least. Diablo has become more defined as a character in its own right. I'm interested to see its end game. Diablo chose Hettie, and listens to her, going against its nature. Yet, for all that, she still wants free of it, and speaks of destroying it. I kinda felt bad for Diablo, knowing it's sentience, and willingness to go against its nature, giving Hettie more than any other who has wielded it.
I want the next one now!!!!
***Many thanks to Netgalley and Brain Mill Press for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Reviewed for XPresso Tours.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews