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Eternal Child #1
Rare Stakes
As an FBI agent, I kick ass. As a psychic FBI agent, I always get the bad guy—until I'm assigned a Dracula copycat case that bites back. Getting my man this time means entering a mysterious underworld where, not every serial killer is human, not every case can be solved, and not everyone can survive.
Standalone urban fantasy novel. No cliff hanger.
EXCERPT
The most innocent things could hold more darkness than I ever wanted to see.
Today's example: Takeout.
What could be so terrible about takeout? Normally, it was awesome. I lived on the stuff. I read the menus like the bible. But this wasn't that kind of takeout.
I stared at the Styrofoam containers on the table. My stomach was already cringing, looking for a place to hide. The containers gleamed virgin white under the fluorescent lights of the FBI conference room, but their contents were not quite so pure.
Each carton had a handwritten label on top. One read, Marion—bright and charming. Another read Stacey—good body. The last, Eileen—agreeable.
The writing was large with strong vertical strokes and half-closed loops. I wondered what a handwriting analyst would make of it.
Was there a particular flourish that indicated someone was a cannibal?
Standalone urban fantasy novel. No cliff hanger.
EXCERPT
The most innocent things could hold more darkness than I ever wanted to see.
Today's example: Takeout.
What could be so terrible about takeout? Normally, it was awesome. I lived on the stuff. I read the menus like the bible. But this wasn't that kind of takeout.
I stared at the Styrofoam containers on the table. My stomach was already cringing, looking for a place to hide. The containers gleamed virgin white under the fluorescent lights of the FBI conference room, but their contents were not quite so pure.
Each carton had a handwritten label on top. One read, Marion—bright and charming. Another read Stacey—good body. The last, Eileen—agreeable.
The writing was large with strong vertical strokes and half-closed loops. I wondered what a handwriting analyst would make of it.
Was there a particular flourish that indicated someone was a cannibal?
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2018
85 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Fox
121 books1,560 followersA USA Today & NY Times bestselling author, Michelle Fox lives in the Midwest with her husband, kids, the occasional exchange student and two, sweetly disobedient dogs. She loves fantasy and romance, which makes writing paranormal romance a natural fit.
In her spare time, she's been known to shake her bon-bon at Zumba, make spectacular cheesecakes, hoard vintage costume jewelry and eat way too much ice cream (Ben and Jerry’s Karamel Sutra for the win!).
Subscribe to her mailing list for free reads, exclusive sneak peeks and giveaways: http://bit.ly/18LJx38
In her spare time, she's been known to shake her bon-bon at Zumba, make spectacular cheesecakes, hoard vintage costume jewelry and eat way too much ice cream (Ben and Jerry’s Karamel Sutra for the win!).
Subscribe to her mailing list for free reads, exclusive sneak peeks and giveaways: http://bit.ly/18LJx38
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 12, 2018
1 1/2
Until the last 10/20% it was a standard, by the number UF. Nothing to talk about, but at least readable even if with a few nits (I couldn't connect with the heroine, cliché went overboard, some things didn't add up... etc)
The ending was so stupid that crashed the experience for me. No real surprises, plus the heroine dunked totally making the experience even more difficult.
Until the last 10/20% it was a standard, by the number UF. Nothing to talk about, but at least readable even if with a few nits (I couldn't connect with the heroine, cliché went overboard, some things didn't add up... etc)
The ending was so stupid that crashed the experience for me. No real surprises, plus the heroine dunked totally making the experience even more difficult.
May 17, 2018
The majority of this book was completely average. Nothing stood out everything was standard UF. The final few chapters “stuff” happened. Sadly, it was dull “stuff”. I’ve absolutely no interest in any of the characters except perhaps a minuscule amount in Max. No I’ll not follow this series.
2 uninspired stars
2 uninspired stars
March 21, 2018
Rare StakesRare Stakes Michelle Fox
Reviewed by SFF Dragon*
As urban fantasy goes, this was a good book and I liked it although parts of it were a lot more horror in nature....
Oh boy, where do I begin? 'Rare Stakes' the first in the new FBI Psychic Urban Fantasy series 'Eternal Child' by Michelle Fox, one of my favourite authors, is about Washington DC based psychic FBI agent Amelia Larson and her partner Jim Packard as they investigate serial killers across the country, and it's really not for the squeamish, but if you can get past the first chapter, it improves, but not by much although die hard urban fantasy fans will be used to their magic and occasional romance laced with a fair bit of blood and gore. I've been addicted to urban fantasy for more than 10 years having cut my teeth on Ilona Andrews' first Kate Daniels novel when it was originally released in 2007, but parts of this book were stomach turning even for me. Although not especially graphic, it was more than detailed enough to be nauseating.
Nothing and no one in this all action story is what they first appear to be, and a lot of them are considerably more, but good or bad, they are all well written and jump off the page at you. I'll admit to jumping with them occasionally too and I stopped reading at meal times and at night. So not the usual me! Most of the main characters turn out to be something more, even the overbearing 'I love me who do you love' newbie FBI agent and total douchebag Dodd, who had Bruce Springsteen's 'Glory Days' worming around in my head for hours, turns out to be something else and creepy lab tech Frankie, the short Godfather wannabe who doesn't understand the word No, even when said repeatedly made me want to strangle him. Then there's Victoria, the journalist who isn't, the apparently bumbling Georgia, the multi-faced Nadia, the serious baddy Ryker, the bookshop owning psychic boyfriend Brendan who's way more than he appears, Lilia too for that matter, and so many revelations between the covers of this book they made my head spin now and again, and no, I don't mean in a demon possessed kind of way, more along the lines of the budding headache. The topper is the vampire, Maxim, and I'm still not sure about him despite the heroine Mel's ultimate opinion, and finally discovering....
I don't want to give spoilers, so I'm going to stop there. I loved Amelia and her partner Jim as well as Brendan, even though he wasn't being entirely honest and I'm still on the fence about Dodd and Maxim. Written in the first person from Amelia's point of view, 'Rare Stakes' is full of action and the paranormal, there was also a little morgue humour thrown in and whilst those who found humour in Theatre of Blood might find the opening scenes funny in a macabre sort of way, but it gave me nightmares for five years and not being a horror fan of any description, I only found them sickening.
As urban fantasy goes, this was a good book and I liked it, although parts of it were a lot more horror in nature and I'm not sure if I'll ever read it again, but I've given it 4 stars and will think on it from time to time. I am however waiting for the next book in this series, I'll give it a read and see how it goes. Hopefully it will be more guts and glory, a lot less macabre and therefore, for me personally, more enjoyable to read. Until then....
Reviewed by SFF Dragon*
As urban fantasy goes, this was a good book and I liked it although parts of it were a lot more horror in nature....
Oh boy, where do I begin? 'Rare Stakes' the first in the new FBI Psychic Urban Fantasy series 'Eternal Child' by Michelle Fox, one of my favourite authors, is about Washington DC based psychic FBI agent Amelia Larson and her partner Jim Packard as they investigate serial killers across the country, and it's really not for the squeamish, but if you can get past the first chapter, it improves, but not by much although die hard urban fantasy fans will be used to their magic and occasional romance laced with a fair bit of blood and gore. I've been addicted to urban fantasy for more than 10 years having cut my teeth on Ilona Andrews' first Kate Daniels novel when it was originally released in 2007, but parts of this book were stomach turning even for me. Although not especially graphic, it was more than detailed enough to be nauseating.
Nothing and no one in this all action story is what they first appear to be, and a lot of them are considerably more, but good or bad, they are all well written and jump off the page at you. I'll admit to jumping with them occasionally too and I stopped reading at meal times and at night. So not the usual me! Most of the main characters turn out to be something more, even the overbearing 'I love me who do you love' newbie FBI agent and total douchebag Dodd, who had Bruce Springsteen's 'Glory Days' worming around in my head for hours, turns out to be something else and creepy lab tech Frankie, the short Godfather wannabe who doesn't understand the word No, even when said repeatedly made me want to strangle him. Then there's Victoria, the journalist who isn't, the apparently bumbling Georgia, the multi-faced Nadia, the serious baddy Ryker, the bookshop owning psychic boyfriend Brendan who's way more than he appears, Lilia too for that matter, and so many revelations between the covers of this book they made my head spin now and again, and no, I don't mean in a demon possessed kind of way, more along the lines of the budding headache. The topper is the vampire, Maxim, and I'm still not sure about him despite the heroine Mel's ultimate opinion, and finally discovering....
I don't want to give spoilers, so I'm going to stop there. I loved Amelia and her partner Jim as well as Brendan, even though he wasn't being entirely honest and I'm still on the fence about Dodd and Maxim. Written in the first person from Amelia's point of view, 'Rare Stakes' is full of action and the paranormal, there was also a little morgue humour thrown in and whilst those who found humour in Theatre of Blood might find the opening scenes funny in a macabre sort of way, but it gave me nightmares for five years and not being a horror fan of any description, I only found them sickening.
As urban fantasy goes, this was a good book and I liked it, although parts of it were a lot more horror in nature and I'm not sure if I'll ever read it again, but I've given it 4 stars and will think on it from time to time. I am however waiting for the next book in this series, I'll give it a read and see how it goes. Hopefully it will be more guts and glory, a lot less macabre and therefore, for me personally, more enjoyable to read. Until then....
June 11, 2018
Feels like I have been repeating myself over and over lately by saying "It had the potential, but then the author just went and messed it up." Sadly,there is no other way how to say it.
It started out so well - accomplished FBI agent, who is psychic and has to do some disgusting stuff (those take out containers? thrillingly gross :D ).
Then there was the case, the boyfriend trouble. Predictable, but enjoyable. And then...
Oh dear Lord...
All throughout the book she is claiming how she always solves the case, how she is a fabulous agent, strong and accomplished, and then she is just..disgusting.
Well it wasn't fast you know. She meets Maxim and has this insane attraction although in her "heart of hearts" she wants only her boyfriend. But okay, I could get over it. Cliche, but sure, why not. Then she sees the club scene and goes all horrified and faints. Big, tough agent my candy jar. But okay, I can get over that too. She had used her powers all day and was weak.
Then she wakes up in the hotel and sees Maxim with his "lace-covered harem". Someone has watched Van Helsing too much. Really too much. And her constant fixation on that? Icky.
Then she sees Maxim's transformation and all she has to say is "eeeek, eeeeek" and again "being horrified". Oaaaakaaaay. Tough agent, huh? But okay. Sure. One time. Let's go with it...
And then it just got so much worse... She decides to seduce him and attract him with doing the opposite of his "harem" - being indifferent. Too much cliche! For the love of sugar!
And then..60% in... What. the. lollipop! Suddenly, there is this guy from CLAN, arguing with the guy from COUNCIL, while his pet dogs attack heroine (yes, big tough guy just stands there and watches while dogs try to chew off her leg) while SHE is just holding a gun (yes, holding not firing), watching the dogs slurp her blood and can you guess? The answer is..Being horrified. No. Just no. The guy is just watching. The girl is acting like a ninny. Then when the dogs have almost chewed off her leg, the bad guy manages to bite her neck, then suddenly Maxim becomes some superhero and kills the bad guy and the dogs, the girl suddenly becomes tough again (now that the danger is over)...
Not to mention other things, such as undeveloped world. First psychics are rare and secret. Then there are Wicca[n] that are basically psychic coven and well known. Are they a secret or well known then? And if there is a distinction then it should be explained better as opposed to just calling everyone "psychic". Then there are suddenly vampires, then mind feeders, then some green naked chick, then more. It is over-complicated. There is COUNCIL. Then there is COVEN. Then there is CLAN. Someone has it in for C-words. Went through paranormal dictionary and chose everything with C? There are so many cliches it is disgusting - the "I don't use make up, I am a bitch to everyone, but every guy wants me" thing, the whole "I have a boyfriend but this guy turns me on like no one ever has", "I have such good morals, I can judge other people all.the.time" etc . The heroine is all tough and strong in times of peace and all "horrified" and weak, and "eeeek,eeek" and a crying mess in times of danger. #Faker #YouAreSoFullOfIt
And it gets worse. Much worse.
So I am sorry. I really am. The cover is beautiful. The beginning was promising. but the way it lost focus of real FBI psychic investigation and went into her emotional and mental instability as well as her CONSTANT indecisiveness and whining was too much for me. Sorry, but no.
It started out so well - accomplished FBI agent, who is psychic and has to do some disgusting stuff (those take out containers? thrillingly gross :D ).
Then there was the case, the boyfriend trouble. Predictable, but enjoyable. And then...
Oh dear Lord...
All throughout the book she is claiming how she always solves the case, how she is a fabulous agent, strong and accomplished, and then she is just..disgusting.
Well it wasn't fast you know. She meets Maxim and has this insane attraction although in her "heart of hearts" she wants only her boyfriend. But okay, I could get over it. Cliche, but sure, why not. Then she sees the club scene and goes all horrified and faints. Big, tough agent my candy jar. But okay, I can get over that too. She had used her powers all day and was weak.
Then she wakes up in the hotel and sees Maxim with his "lace-covered harem". Someone has watched Van Helsing too much. Really too much. And her constant fixation on that? Icky.
Then she sees Maxim's transformation and all she has to say is "eeeek, eeeeek" and again "being horrified". Oaaaakaaaay. Tough agent, huh? But okay. Sure. One time. Let's go with it...
And then it just got so much worse... She decides to seduce him and attract him with doing the opposite of his "harem" - being indifferent. Too much cliche! For the love of sugar!
And then..60% in... What. the. lollipop! Suddenly, there is this guy from CLAN, arguing with the guy from COUNCIL, while his pet dogs attack heroine (yes, big tough guy just stands there and watches while dogs try to chew off her leg) while SHE is just holding a gun (yes, holding not firing), watching the dogs slurp her blood and can you guess? The answer is..Being horrified. No. Just no. The guy is just watching. The girl is acting like a ninny. Then when the dogs have almost chewed off her leg, the bad guy manages to bite her neck, then suddenly Maxim becomes some superhero and kills the bad guy and the dogs, the girl suddenly becomes tough again (now that the danger is over)...
Not to mention other things, such as undeveloped world. First psychics are rare and secret. Then there are Wicca[n] that are basically psychic coven and well known. Are they a secret or well known then? And if there is a distinction then it should be explained better as opposed to just calling everyone "psychic". Then there are suddenly vampires, then mind feeders, then some green naked chick, then more. It is over-complicated. There is COUNCIL. Then there is COVEN. Then there is CLAN. Someone has it in for C-words. Went through paranormal dictionary and chose everything with C? There are so many cliches it is disgusting - the "I don't use make up, I am a bitch to everyone, but every guy wants me" thing, the whole "I have a boyfriend but this guy turns me on like no one ever has", "I have such good morals, I can judge other people all.the.time" etc . The heroine is all tough and strong in times of peace and all "horrified" and weak, and "eeeek,eeek" and a crying mess in times of danger. #Faker #YouAreSoFullOfIt
And it gets worse. Much worse.
So I am sorry. I really am. The cover is beautiful. The beginning was promising. but the way it lost focus of real FBI psychic investigation and went into her emotional and mental instability as well as her CONSTANT indecisiveness and whining was too much for me. Sorry, but no.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2021
I really liked how this book began. The world building was great, I really enjoyed the MC, and I like the unique twists on vampires. Then, roughly half way through the book everything went sideways. The intense scene where all gets revealed to Mel was chaotic/confusing. The sudden introduction of werefey felt thrown in there and then the interactions/dialogue between Mel and Maxim got weird. Overall, I felt like the second half of the book was rushed and disorganized. I think the series still has promise and will be interested in the next book and hope it’s better planned out both with plots, character interaction and relationship development.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2018
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! Yes, I got a review copy of this book, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I have already bought my copy; have you?
The cover makes her look like a kick butt FBI agent!
This is the first book in the series, and it is for adults only due to the violence and adult content.
Wow, this book through me for a loop in the first couple of pages, and if you are wondering what it was just read the blurb with the excerpt! I wondered what I got myself into but to answer that question, a phenomenal book. I was so into the book in the first chapter that I couldn’t put the book down. I loved this world and the characters in it! This world is complex with some new paranormal creatures in it making it very unique. I loved the action and mystery involved with the crime solving. I love when I can’t guess what is going to happen next because it is not predictable and makes for an exciting read. Mel is a character that I like and want to read more about her, her boyfriend, Maxim, and what happens with them all!
I highly recommend to all paranormal fans who love complicated new worlds with all sorts of paranormal shenanigans mixed with mystery and intrigue galore!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! Yes, I got a review copy of this book, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I have already bought my copy; have you?
The cover makes her look like a kick butt FBI agent!
This is the first book in the series, and it is for adults only due to the violence and adult content.
Wow, this book through me for a loop in the first couple of pages, and if you are wondering what it was just read the blurb with the excerpt! I wondered what I got myself into but to answer that question, a phenomenal book. I was so into the book in the first chapter that I couldn’t put the book down. I loved this world and the characters in it! This world is complex with some new paranormal creatures in it making it very unique. I loved the action and mystery involved with the crime solving. I love when I can’t guess what is going to happen next because it is not predictable and makes for an exciting read. Mel is a character that I like and want to read more about her, her boyfriend, Maxim, and what happens with them all!
I highly recommend to all paranormal fans who love complicated new worlds with all sorts of paranormal shenanigans mixed with mystery and intrigue galore!
May 30, 2024
There are quite a few things in here that I typically find very annoying when purely looking at the tropes like the MC being in denial for almost the entire book despite having supernatural powers herself or her being kind of weak actually considering she is presented as an experienced FBI agent.
But in my opinion the book actually did a very good job at providing enough background and good enough reasons for these things. It is one thing to be mad at a character for being stupid purely because you as the reader know better. I don't believe that alone is reason enough to judge a story to be badly written.
What makes it actually bad is if the characters stupidity or denseness contradicts what the author clearly wants the reader to believe about their character.
And that was simply not the case here. There were good reasons for her to be less competent than you might expect from an FBI agent and she always has plausible reasons for her denial of a lot of supernatural stuff.
I initially almost didn't read this book because other reviews criticized this aspect of the book but I think that is not a fair critique which is mainly why I wrote this review.
I was positively surprised by how well the author pulled off one particular thing that she needed to happen but which went very much contrary to the MCs wishes. ()
What was far more of a problem for me was how incredibly contrived the whole story climax and all the reveals about the MC and the rest of the supernatural world was.
Towards the end the author seems to have given up on making things believable with anywhere near the effort she put in earlier and maybe just wanted to be done with the book.
It is at that point that the story started to collect more plot holes than plot points which is why I don't think this deserves more than 3 stars.
I might check out the second one anyway but I don't have high hopes. Judging by the ending of this one it seems like it is only going to go downhill from here.
But in my opinion the book actually did a very good job at providing enough background and good enough reasons for these things. It is one thing to be mad at a character for being stupid purely because you as the reader know better. I don't believe that alone is reason enough to judge a story to be badly written.
What makes it actually bad is if the characters stupidity or denseness contradicts what the author clearly wants the reader to believe about their character.
And that was simply not the case here. There were good reasons for her to be less competent than you might expect from an FBI agent and she always has plausible reasons for her denial of a lot of supernatural stuff.
I initially almost didn't read this book because other reviews criticized this aspect of the book but I think that is not a fair critique which is mainly why I wrote this review.
I was positively surprised by how well the author pulled off one particular thing that she needed to happen but which went very much contrary to the MCs wishes. ()
What was far more of a problem for me was how incredibly contrived the whole story climax and all the reveals about the MC and the rest of the supernatural world was.
Towards the end the author seems to have given up on making things believable with anywhere near the effort she put in earlier and maybe just wanted to be done with the book.
It is at that point that the story started to collect more plot holes than plot points which is why I don't think this deserves more than 3 stars.
I might check out the second one anyway but I don't have high hopes. Judging by the ending of this one it seems like it is only going to go downhill from here.
March 21, 2018
This was a really intriguing book and had lots of interesting twists and turns that made it into quite an exceptional and exciting read. It is well written and is certainly a book I would have no hesitation in recommending.
A serial killer is on the loose in Cleveland, prompting the FBI to call in Melia and her partner Jim to investigate the multiple murders that have taken place. With psychic abilities, Melia is an asset when it comes to solving impossible cases, but this one has her boyfriend, Brendan, worried for her safety; he may be supportive, but he is definitely hiding something. It soon becomes clear that the case doesn’t fit into any sort of pattern, until a break in the investigation suggests a common link. Melia’s whole life has been about balancing power, but she has yet to discover what drives her abilities; every reading ran the risk of knowing exactly what someone saw, felt or feared, but Melia gets a lead, a name and a location; now it is time to go undercover. From the moment Melia meets Maxim her world becomes so much more complicated; he knows many things about her, even the untapped power in her aura. For everyone’s safety, Maxim proposes that he and Melia form an alliance, but when his companions are poisoned, Maxim’s weakness means he can no longer exert any control over the serial killer, Ryker; but what will be the consequences? All Melia wants to do is solve the case, not learn that monsters were real and she was one too; an eternal child born of immortals. Melia had been kept hidden away for her own safety, surrounded by a network of bodyguards, who could protect her as long as she didn’t know who she was or fully came into her abilities. Then again, what was it about this case that is so different; had it been an elaborate test all along. A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
A serial killer is on the loose in Cleveland, prompting the FBI to call in Melia and her partner Jim to investigate the multiple murders that have taken place. With psychic abilities, Melia is an asset when it comes to solving impossible cases, but this one has her boyfriend, Brendan, worried for her safety; he may be supportive, but he is definitely hiding something. It soon becomes clear that the case doesn’t fit into any sort of pattern, until a break in the investigation suggests a common link. Melia’s whole life has been about balancing power, but she has yet to discover what drives her abilities; every reading ran the risk of knowing exactly what someone saw, felt or feared, but Melia gets a lead, a name and a location; now it is time to go undercover. From the moment Melia meets Maxim her world becomes so much more complicated; he knows many things about her, even the untapped power in her aura. For everyone’s safety, Maxim proposes that he and Melia form an alliance, but when his companions are poisoned, Maxim’s weakness means he can no longer exert any control over the serial killer, Ryker; but what will be the consequences? All Melia wants to do is solve the case, not learn that monsters were real and she was one too; an eternal child born of immortals. Melia had been kept hidden away for her own safety, surrounded by a network of bodyguards, who could protect her as long as she didn’t know who she was or fully came into her abilities. Then again, what was it about this case that is so different; had it been an elaborate test all along. A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
March 31, 2018
Move Over Criminal Minds!
Calling all lovers of Criminal Minds, Criminal Intent, etc.. You are going to LOVE this story. Ms Fox has taken her writing expertise to a whole new level, Vampires that don't need the usual sustenance of blood to survive, but live off psychic powers and a hybrid called werefey that are half breeds they are half fey and any other animal like wolf or like Lilia a chameleon! And I didn't even miss the sex, that's how good it is!
Mel Larson is an Agent for the FBI, but she's not a normal agent she is a very well hidden agent that is called to use her psychic abilities by touching the evidence and then building a case that will be accepted in court to bring the bad guys to justice... She doesn't even know that there is a whole paranormal world out there and has a really hard time accepting it until she is sent on a case and is thrown into a world she has no choice but to accept. She holds on to her beliefs to the bitter end although she has seen the unthinkable and is introduced to a world that was hidden from her in order to keep her safe from the same. Mel is more than even she realizes.
Lots of mystery, intrigue and a great who done it that will keep you transfixed and surprised to the end. Nothing and no one is as it seems
Calling all lovers of Criminal Minds, Criminal Intent, etc.. You are going to LOVE this story. Ms Fox has taken her writing expertise to a whole new level, Vampires that don't need the usual sustenance of blood to survive, but live off psychic powers and a hybrid called werefey that are half breeds they are half fey and any other animal like wolf or like Lilia a chameleon! And I didn't even miss the sex, that's how good it is!
Mel Larson is an Agent for the FBI, but she's not a normal agent she is a very well hidden agent that is called to use her psychic abilities by touching the evidence and then building a case that will be accepted in court to bring the bad guys to justice... She doesn't even know that there is a whole paranormal world out there and has a really hard time accepting it until she is sent on a case and is thrown into a world she has no choice but to accept. She holds on to her beliefs to the bitter end although she has seen the unthinkable and is introduced to a world that was hidden from her in order to keep her safe from the same. Mel is more than even she realizes.
Lots of mystery, intrigue and a great who done it that will keep you transfixed and surprised to the end. Nothing and no one is as it seems
March 6, 2018
I didn't know what to expect with this one--one thing for sure it is a great read. FBI agent hired for her psychic ability. She and her well-seasoned partner often start from the bad guy backward to get evidence to prosecute. Just knowing who did it won't keep them away from hurting more people.
Most people didn't believe in my abilities and it wasn't broadcast around. Little did I realize that what I did was dull normal compared to what was really out there.
The Dracula serial killer we hunted was just the beginning of my education into a reality I had no clue about.
Work the case. Save lives. Try to have a personal life with the sexiest geek. Of course, to do all those things I had to live. With this case, not sure that was gonna happen.
This was a really good read. Nothing like what I expected. The characters were not what I expected. There are plenty of surprises. Not easy to figure out who is a good guy and who is not. You will have to keep reading till you find out.
A strong recommendation from me.
I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.
Most people didn't believe in my abilities and it wasn't broadcast around. Little did I realize that what I did was dull normal compared to what was really out there.
The Dracula serial killer we hunted was just the beginning of my education into a reality I had no clue about.
Work the case. Save lives. Try to have a personal life with the sexiest geek. Of course, to do all those things I had to live. With this case, not sure that was gonna happen.
This was a really good read. Nothing like what I expected. The characters were not what I expected. There are plenty of surprises. Not easy to figure out who is a good guy and who is not. You will have to keep reading till you find out.
A strong recommendation from me.
I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.
March 10, 2018
Wow! “Rare Stakes” is a totally unique storyline and different than anything I’ve ever read before! A PNR must read that’s definitely on the edge of being a dark psychological, paranormal thriller, at least IMHO ;) It grabbed me right from the start & kept me on the edge of my seat turning pages like crazy! ... Ms. Fox keeps us guessing throughout the whole book with plenty of surprise twists & turns. The well-defined characters spring to life & there are some that you’ll want to get to know while there are others you’ll wish stayed between the pages, but you will not be disappointed! Even tho I volunteered to read this book, it was without any outside influences & I can honestly recommend this to adult fans of fiction and especially those who like to read suspense, thriller, mystery, fantasy or paranormal genres, coz you will not want to miss out on this one!
March 20, 2018
Author Michelle Fox, has raise the bar with this paranormal suspense novel. For an author who is known to me to an one of my go to one click shifter and vampire writers, I am pleasantly surprised to read this suspense novel, that yes of course has the elements of paranormal elements as well. Meet Amelia Larson or Mel as she is known to her friends. Mel is an odd duck in the FBI she is a unknown psychic hired as an agent just for that reason. YES, they work the cases backwards. Find the killers and then find the evidence. But she is not the only parnamorm we meet in this book oh no the more the merrier. We have a coven of witches, were and yes even vampire...of sorts. I really enjoyed this book the two times I read it...it was really full of content and action so i re-read to make sure i did not miss anything. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 23, 2018
First let me say WOW!! This author has far surpassed my exceptions with this book!
This story has a slow build, for a very special FBI agent. It gives the sense this is just another routine case of a killer. But as you read you will be drawn into other worlds that will just blow your mind! It has Characters you will love to hate.. and others who will make you want to just beg to trade body fluids with!
Do not start this story near bedtime as you will lose sleep as reading. You will not be able to turn just one page. It is very realistic all the while telling you about vamps, wolves, and fairy folks .. and so much more!!
There are more twists in this story then in a maze at Halloween! I hope you enjoy this story as much as I have! Just wish I could give it more then five stars!
This story has a slow build, for a very special FBI agent. It gives the sense this is just another routine case of a killer. But as you read you will be drawn into other worlds that will just blow your mind! It has Characters you will love to hate.. and others who will make you want to just beg to trade body fluids with!
Do not start this story near bedtime as you will lose sleep as reading. You will not be able to turn just one page. It is very realistic all the while telling you about vamps, wolves, and fairy folks .. and so much more!!
There are more twists in this story then in a maze at Halloween! I hope you enjoy this story as much as I have! Just wish I could give it more then five stars!
April 1, 2018
RARE STAKES is the first book in the Eternal Child series. They will need to be read in the order of release.
WOW! Fey, vampires, psychics, and complex mystery, this is Buffy meets Criminal Minds. The fast pace still has me trying to catch my breath – in the best way possible! There is nothing predictable in this story and isn’t that refreshing?
I highly recommend starting this series to all of the lovers of paranormals, mysteries, and crime stories.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: RARE STAKES
Series: Eternal Child #1
Category /Genre: Urban Fantasy
Recommended for: 18+ due to violence & sexual content
Grammar/editing: book received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Michelle Fox (as an ARC gifted copy)
WOW! Fey, vampires, psychics, and complex mystery, this is Buffy meets Criminal Minds. The fast pace still has me trying to catch my breath – in the best way possible! There is nothing predictable in this story and isn’t that refreshing?
I highly recommend starting this series to all of the lovers of paranormals, mysteries, and crime stories.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: RARE STAKES
Series: Eternal Child #1
Category /Genre: Urban Fantasy
Recommended for: 18+ due to violence & sexual content
Grammar/editing: book received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Michelle Fox (as an ARC gifted copy)
February 22, 2018
Thanks to the author for providing me a copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book with no compensation.
I have read many of Michelle's books and have loved every one of them. This book is no different. Love Michell's writing style in this book as it is fast-paced, great plot and some twists you won't see coming.
Being a psychic, Mel is not ready to learn that there are supernaturals out there and she sure didn't expect her "relationship shy" boyfriend to be one. This case will she and her partner Jim are on will shake her world and change her beliefs.
Great story and I am so hoping for a series to come out of this one. There is a lot I want to learn between Maxim and Mel.
I have read many of Michelle's books and have loved every one of them. This book is no different. Love Michell's writing style in this book as it is fast-paced, great plot and some twists you won't see coming.
Being a psychic, Mel is not ready to learn that there are supernaturals out there and she sure didn't expect her "relationship shy" boyfriend to be one. This case will she and her partner Jim are on will shake her world and change her beliefs.
Great story and I am so hoping for a series to come out of this one. There is a lot I want to learn between Maxim and Mel.
March 23, 2018
A rare read, indeed!
Amelia (Mel) Larsen, psychic FBI agent, is working on a serial killer case with her partner, Jim Packard. I’m enjoying Mel’s practical ‘no nonsense’ approach to her work, her abilities. I love the psychic premise and the way she works to build a solid case against the perpetrator. Then. Just when I thought the story was going one direction, it careened around a corner on two wheels and headed off on a tangent! I was SO not expecting this. What a wild ride this turns out to be! We’re meeting some really intriguing (or crazy) characters. It’s no longer just the prosaic use of psychic abilities to solve crimes. It’s so much more! Definitely a must-read!
Amelia (Mel) Larsen, psychic FBI agent, is working on a serial killer case with her partner, Jim Packard. I’m enjoying Mel’s practical ‘no nonsense’ approach to her work, her abilities. I love the psychic premise and the way she works to build a solid case against the perpetrator. Then. Just when I thought the story was going one direction, it careened around a corner on two wheels and headed off on a tangent! I was SO not expecting this. What a wild ride this turns out to be! We’re meeting some really intriguing (or crazy) characters. It’s no longer just the prosaic use of psychic abilities to solve crimes. It’s so much more! Definitely a must-read!
July 10, 2018
2.5 stars
I did overall enjoy the book but I found a lot of parts confusing and just too much dump of information that I couldn't quite understand. Amelia didn't really do much in this book despite her being an FBI agent (I was hoping more kickass fight scenes based off the cover of the book but we didn't get that.)
Also near the end of the book when Amelia was playing hard to get with Maxim in accepting the bond was irritating. She didn't listen to him and only made the situation worse.
This series has potential so hopefully in the next book stuff will be explained better and we'll have actual kickass scenes for Amelia.
I did overall enjoy the book but I found a lot of parts confusing and just too much dump of information that I couldn't quite understand. Amelia didn't really do much in this book despite her being an FBI agent (I was hoping more kickass fight scenes based off the cover of the book but we didn't get that.)
Also near the end of the book when Amelia was playing hard to get with Maxim in accepting the bond was irritating. She didn't listen to him and only made the situation worse.
This series has potential so hopefully in the next book stuff will be explained better and we'll have actual kickass scenes for Amelia.
October 28, 2021
Book: Rare Stakes (Eternal Child #1)
Author: Michelle Fox
My Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by: Tammy - Book Nook Nuts
REVIEW
Holy hotness where to begin...
This is a fast-paced paranormal book with lots of twists and turns. We get action, drama, dark, magic, and mayhem. Oh yeah and murder.
Physic FBI agent Amelia is paired up with Jim and they are off to hopefully discover the murder or die trying. It does take Amelia a bit to realize there are other beings that go bump in the night...I loved Amelia!
A really good twisty- whodunnit kind of story!
Michelle Fox
Author: Michelle Fox
My Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by: Tammy - Book Nook Nuts
REVIEW
Holy hotness where to begin...
This is a fast-paced paranormal book with lots of twists and turns. We get action, drama, dark, magic, and mayhem. Oh yeah and murder.
Physic FBI agent Amelia is paired up with Jim and they are off to hopefully discover the murder or die trying. It does take Amelia a bit to realize there are other beings that go bump in the night...I loved Amelia!
A really good twisty- whodunnit kind of story!
Michelle Fox
March 14, 2018
Exciting twists and turns make for excellent read!!
Amelia Larson in a non-traditional FBI agent due to her psychic abilities. She uses her abilities to solve cases, but tries to keep it under the radar to not flip people out. When she must travel for work things quickly escalate out of control. Many of her beliefs about what is real and what is not are turned on their head.
Things definitely go “bump” in the night here – in this unpredictable, highly entertaining read!!
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
Amelia Larson in a non-traditional FBI agent due to her psychic abilities. She uses her abilities to solve cases, but tries to keep it under the radar to not flip people out. When she must travel for work things quickly escalate out of control. Many of her beliefs about what is real and what is not are turned on their head.
Things definitely go “bump” in the night here – in this unpredictable, highly entertaining read!!
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
March 16, 2018
Amelia (Mel) Larson is an FBI agent with an additional skill - she is a psychic which she uses to help solve cases. Her success rate is impressive but her latest case may well turn out to be her hardest - a Dracula copycat that pulls her into an underworld where not every killer is human.
I loved this story. Mel was strong and feisty while undeniably human with had real emotions and feelings. I enjoyed the story and how she coped and struggled with the non-human characters she encountered. Well told and everything was very clear and easy to feel and understand.
I loved this story. Mel was strong and feisty while undeniably human with had real emotions and feelings. I enjoyed the story and how she coped and struggled with the non-human characters she encountered. Well told and everything was very clear and easy to feel and understand.
March 17, 2018
This is a totally different type of PNR than I usually read but it is engaging . This is about an FBI agent trying to help solve some murders that is supposed to involve vampires , vampires that she does not believe in . If you enjoy reading about solving murders and just how she uses her gifts to do so than this story is for you ! It is well written and recommended . Now as for the heat in the book there is not much of that but you do get to read about a different type of vampire along with the murders .
March 18, 2018
I liked this story because it is gripping, intense, the storyline just pulls you right into Amelia's world. The story is also intriguing and full of action. With all her human-FBI abilities & paranormal-physic skills, she didn't figure out what was going on before I did, I understand why though but to me, it made Amelia seem out of her league, at the same time it shows that as confident as she is (rightly so), she has room to grow. Hopefully she will come into her full abilities and even a little romance more as the series continues.
March 23, 2018
Oh My goodness what can I not say about this book. Suspense, intreguing, danger. I love a book that makes me want to bite my nails and claw at the edge of my seat waiting for what happens next. I voluntarily read a copy of this book and was sucked in from the start. I am a huge fan of shows like CSI, Criminal Minds, and Dexter. This book gives me that same thrill and the characters are great. I can't wait for the second book. If you like a good story that gives goose bumps this is the one for you.
March 23, 2018
Amelia Larson is a non-traditional FBI agent, due to her psychic abilities that she uses to solve cases. There is a serial killer on the loose in Cleveland, prompting the FBI to call in Melia and her partner Jim. They want them to investigate the multiple murders that have taken place. Melia was a strong, sassy, character that had confidence in her abilities as a psychic and a agent. This was a well written fast paced read with a unique storyline that will have you turning the pages. I voluntarily received an advance arc copy for an honest review.
April 5, 2018
I got a kick out of the X-Files reference but the content was more like criminal minds. Mel is a psychic in a covert FBI team that specialises in the strange. This case brings her face to face with her own heritage and beings she thought were fictitious. There is a lot of character build up so the book starts off slowly but picks up speed as the action intensifies. Although this case is technically solved the door is open for lots more adventures.
I received an ARC of this story and have voluntarily chosen to review it here
I received an ARC of this story and have voluntarily chosen to review it here
December 11, 2021
This is the first book by this author and it will not be the last! From the first chapter, you are drawn into a web of mystery and intrigue while on the hunt for a serial killer. I loved each character … they are written in such detail that you feel you are part of the investigation. I can’t wait to see in which direction this series moves to. I am intrigued by the character of Maxim. I’d love to see him develop into a primary love interest. I think they would combust the pages. Download and enjoy❤️❤️❤️
March 29, 2018
Don't miss this wild paranormal ride
Michelle Fox has written a very fast paced mystery that will have you racing to its trippy conclusion. Our heroine, Amelia, is a psychic working for the FBI'S paranormal division and doing a great and uncomplicated job. Sent to Cleveland with her partner Jim she starts learning more about the nature of abilities and meeting other paranormals she had never believed in before. A new favorite series for all of us to celebrate.
Michelle Fox has written a very fast paced mystery that will have you racing to its trippy conclusion. Our heroine, Amelia, is a psychic working for the FBI'S paranormal division and doing a great and uncomplicated job. Sent to Cleveland with her partner Jim she starts learning more about the nature of abilities and meeting other paranormals she had never believed in before. A new favorite series for all of us to celebrate.
November 13, 2021
Mel is a no holds barred FBI agent and psychic- and the bureau knows about it and uses it to their advantage. Her "super power"? Reading where people are- dead or alive. She's very good at what she does. But when she's thrust into investigating a serial killer that she can't "read"- her eyes are opened up to another world where people aren't always what they appear, or people at all. Excellent 1st book in a paranormal series by Michelle Fox!
December 24, 2021
A paranormal murder mystery. The story follows Mel as she tries to find a serial Killer. She is a psychic working for the FBI. As the story goes she learns that there is more in the world then we believe. She also learns about herself and how much more she is capable of. The story has some interesting twists. By the end I really was rooting for Mel. With the help of new and old friends she may just survive and solve the case.
March 7, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I freely and gladly these this honest review! I loved it. When you have a psychic, a werefae who is a chameleon and a bad witch all in one story is has to be good. Though I had a shock when the bad guy was revealed. This is a great read!
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