The Scented Bones: The Svabodina Case Files #1

by Angelina Kerner

Angel Svabodina is a rookie forensic anthropologist, enjoying the beginning of her new career. That joy comes crashing down when she figures out the skeleton she’s working on is not human and then it vanishes.

She throws herself fully into the case without thinking about the parties involved, a psychopomp associate, and paranormal mafia families made up of vampires and werewolves—or the consequences.

When she sees there’s no avoiding the inevitable, Angel has to suck it up and work with the werewolves to solve the case but can she trust them?

Werewolves and witches are in a centuries-old feud, but that doesn’t stop the shivers running down her spine from one wolf in particular. Rights and wrongs become blurred, as she is tormented by her past and accepting who she truly is while searching for the skeleton. What’s more, nothing comes for free, including information. To get what she needs from the werewolf don, Angel has to meet with the fae queen. Can she meet her without repercussions and solve the case?

149 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 2, 2018

About the author

ANGELINA KERNER is an author of unforgettable, sassy, and tantalizing stories. She’s the wife of a photographer and the mother of a cute little toddler, but she’s also been a dancer, a psychologist, an anthropologist, a geographer, a dreamer, and an adventurer. She does her best writing while being bothered by her cats in sunny California. Angelina loves to play goddess-dragon matchmaker, transporting readers to a place with carefree romance where one can finish reading with a smile. However, with light there’s darkness.

Reviews

[Dash fan · Rating 5 out of 5]

5☆ A Must Read Fun Supernatural Mystery

I have a guilty pleasure for vampire and Witches books, so as soon as Shannon invited me to read The Scented Bones I jumped at the chance!
I mean who could resist that cool cover it's fab!

The Scented Bones isn't like your typical fantasy vamp, witches, werewolves books.
This is a fun, magical/fantasy mystery with plenty of quirky, endearing characters , that once you start reading its hard to put down!

Angel is a Anthropologist and a Witch. Although she doesn't practise her magic she is still a kick ass witch.

So when Angel discovers some mystical bones she has to call upon her powers to help solve the clues when the bones disappear.
Angel is about to discover that she isn't the only supernatural being around when she encounters a whole host of different people, from werewolves, vamps & fae oh yeah and Mob gangsters! ( how cool what an eclectic mix)

But can Angel solve the mystery? But keep her powers a secret from the Mundanes (humans)

I really liked Angel she's a strong kick ass witch, who was determined and courageous yet was clever and witty in keeping secrets and solving mystery. I would definitely want her on my side in the event of a crime.

I adored this action paced mystery. I loved the twist of fantasy/supernatural meets crime solving mystery. It's not often you get to enjoy the two mixed together.
Angelina has done a fantastic job at drawing the reader into the murky world of the supernatural whilst keeping the plot fresh and fun.
I adored the characters, they were an eclectic mix of fresh, fun, endearing and quirky characters.

I can't wait for the next instalment!!
For me this is a Must Read Book!

I highly recommend this exciting book if you enjoy supernatural mysteries with a dash of fantasy, witchy caper, vamps, mob gangsters, werewolves and plenty of action.


Thank you to RRBook Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

My Review is also on my Blog Website :-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...

[☆Dani☆ ☆Touch My Spine Book Reviews☆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a phenomenal paranormal must read! I loved everything about this gem of a novel! Even though this book was short & sweet and could be gobbled up in less than a day, it was packed with fantastic characters, great world building and a fast yet detailed plot!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re a fan of the paranormal, then this is the book for you! From shape-shifters, to witches, to vampires and were wolves, Angelina Kernerhas created a unique world, full of fascinating characters. I honestly couldn’t put this one down.

There’s a little bit of humor, and a while lot of mystery and suspense, which I found so enticing. The Scented Bones is one of those novels that has you questioning, and keeps you hooked the entire way through.

I love the characters. Our heroine, Angel is a fantastic lead. All around, Angelina Kerner has brought to life, well rounded and intriguing. I loved the back stories.

Overall, I highly recommend this book. It’s full of everything you’d ever want as a fan of paranormal books, and I can promise you won’t want to put it down. I can’t wait for the next book!

Merged review:

I don’t always re-read books, but when I do, I make sure they are as good as The Scented Bones! There’s there’s additional content in this version, and it just added to the story. I am absolutely in love with the content of this story and had so much fun revisiting this world!

If you’re a paranormal fan, Angelina Kerner has your back with this one. Shape-shifter, werewolves, vampires, witches, all in a unique world.

I love the characters Angelina Kerner has created. They feel so real, I almost forgot they aren’t! Every character has unique back stories and personalities. My favorite character is probably Angel, but I loved them all.

I highly recommend checking this one out. And if you’ve already read it, The Scented Bones is worth a re-read!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

[Acacia Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit, paranormal is definitely my thing. I love anything with witches and vampires and werewolves, and you know what? You get all of those in this fast-paced, fun read. Angel is definitely a great heroine to root for, and learning about her history adds a lot of charm to the book that I really loved. While I could go on and on about it, I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say this...

There was a few twist and turns I didn't see coming. I always appreciate that because I typically figure out books about 1/4 to 1/2 way through, so to be surprised at a few of the revelations made throughout the novel was really cool. There's a lot of really fun characters that I liked and I'm excited to see them throughout the rest of the series as it progresses.

So, needless to say, Angelina Kerner is an author I will be reading again! This was the first book I read from her, and it will not be the last. I highly recommend giving her a shot if you haven't done so already!!!

[Staci Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining mystery with many suprises.

Each bring a new element complexity to the story. Despite the solemn nature of circumstances humorous and easy to read. I appreciate her relatable emotional reactions to circumstances. Yet they don't overwhelm the heroine in her path. Dealing with paranormal hierarchy doesn't make her task any easier. Excited to see what comes next in this series.

[Tresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read!!! I loved the unique storyline especially with the different supernatural families! The characters are fascinating, especially Angel and her Gram!! With a little mystery thrown in, this is a DEFINITE, MUST read for those who love fun, paranormal books!

[Didi Oviatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Usually when you think of paranormal characters like witches, werewolves, vampires etc. you think of books that are very ominous and heavy, like something with that Dun-Dun-Dun background music. When I read The Scented Bones, I was really surprised at how light and fun of a read it is. I devoured the entire book in one setting, at night, and still slept like a baby afterwards. I wasn't consumed with nightmares, or tossing round all night because I'd freaked myself out with the creepy creeps. So if you're looking for a short, fun, magical, yet still dramatic and mysterious book to read then this one is definitely for you.
Angel is an interesting main character. She's a witch, but hasn't practiced magic in three years. Her best friend and room mate is as normal and human as they come. She has no ideal the kind of people she's surrounded herself with, nor the awesome powers that her bestie possesses. Now, as Angel is an Anthropologist, shes given a very disturbing set of bones to work with. She discovers exactly what kind of paranormal they belong to, as well as the dangerous people (or not so people) her friend is dating and spending her time with. Everything is tied together, the bones, the roommate's new peeps, aaaaannnnnnddddd the MAFIA. That's right friends, it's also a mafia book, which is awesome!
With the help of Angels grandma, she pulls her magic back to the surface in order to get to the bottom of things and solve the mystery of the scented bones. She has to find out who they belonged to and exactly what happened to her. I love the grandma, she's my favorite character. Angelina Kerner did a great job with this little gem. It's set up very well to write several more case files! As many as she want's really.

[Urban Fairy Godmother aka... Jolene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delicious and Smart

At first, I wasn't clear where this story was going to take me. Ms. Kerner has an eye for detail and it's shows in the world she builds. She eases you in slowly, but once that world is fully formed the story takes off. There is plenty of magic, excitement, mystery, and love to keep you reading and craving more. I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out. Even though there's no major cliffhanger, it's obvious there is much more to this story. I need to know what happens to all the fantastic characters I've become so attached to. I want more!

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great, fast paced, mystery that I could not put down. The plot is tightly woven, with intriguing characters, and a mystery that kept me guessing. I enjoyed this book and following along as the clues were put together.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

What do you do when you are the forensics anthropoligst and is working on a case of a dead girl and the case becomes more complicated when the girl isn't a human but a fae . Well that is what happens to Angel Svabina and she is thrown into a world of werewolves and vampires oh and the mafia familes they represent . When the bones are stolen and she has to work with werewolves will she loose her heart to her mate and will she solve the case without ticking off the Fae Queen .
I dove into this book and instantly fell in love with Angel, she is so spunky and sassy in her own way . She is strong and also kick butt , you will love it when she comes into her power when grandma shows up to help her get her powers back . Oh did I tell you she is also a witch . There is her best friend Laura who is well a mundane but is a really fun mundane . She is funny and oh so accepting of Angel and what she is and she is also the driving force of getting Angel out of her head and into life. Oh my there is a lot of testosterone in this book . So many good looking men from Lorenzo to Gage . They are all hot and sexy but also there is more to them then meets the eye . We have werewolves and demons and vampires . OH YEAH
You know when you sit down and start a book about paranormal like werewolves and witches it usually gets really heavy , this book doesn't do that its a light and full of mystery and you will love the characters . You don't get bogged down with a lot of angst in this book The characters are well developed and you will love each one . I couldn't help but laugh through out this book Angel and the Fae queens court scene is hilarious . I won't go into details but you will laugh so hard . I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read other cases that they will be involved in and if Gage and Angel actually get together and maybe get their happily ever after . So if you want a book that isn't bogged down in angst this is the book for you

[Connor J Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the moment I flipped the first page of The Scented Bones I began a journey through a world I now feverishly await to delve back into. It’s a gripping journey that breaks down the modernity of everyday life and reveals an antique paranormal complex beneath.
From her seemingly mundane occupation to her deep paranormal past, Angel is a character whose circumstances tear her from a life of normalcy and in turn, push you closer to the edge of your seat. As the holiday spirit is in the air, someone’s grim skeleton grows colder by the second. The Scented Bones are undoubtedly more than meets the eye, and Angelina Kerner does a fantastic job revealing a mystery steeped in danger, romance, and nail biting suspense.
The characters, including our lovely Angel, are all written skillfully. Their dialog, their fashion, even their mannerisms are on display, and they make the overall experience genuine and consistent. The relationships Angel develops are rich in a plethora emotions; confusion, fear, anger, sadness, love, each a facet to her character that I admire greatly as a writer myself. Between her mundane friend, her bewitched family and her nefarious foes there is a world of character to fall in love with.
What I admire above all is Angelina’s unique way of telling this crime mystery. Thanks to the paranormal aspect to the world, this story was told from a perspective only magic can tell. Even the romance in the story grabs a hold of you for reasons beyond the typical romance. Being someone who doesn’t write or read romance, I must admit it was an alluring component to the narrative. There is a depth to love story that sets a dark precedent for future books to come, to which I hope are plenty!

[Jessica Bronder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angelina, Angel, Svabodina is a forensic anthropologist working on a strange skeleton that turns out not to be human. But when she goes back to investigate the skeleton has disappeared. But Angel has her own secrets about the paranormal, she has tried to walk away from it but it has just drug her back. She is going to have to interview the fae along with dealing with vampires, werewolves, and witches amount other paranormal creatures is she plans on solving the poor dead girls murder.

Angel has been burned by the paranormal and tried to walk away from it and stay away. Unfortunately she can’t get rid of this case and has to go back into a world she is trying to stay away from. Angel is a great, strong character that can hold her own against the various creatures and their governing bodies. But no matter who or what she faces, she is determined to solve the murder.

I love Angelina Kerner’s writing; it is so descriptive that you just find yourself fully immersed in this world. This is not your normal paranormal creatures and world but that just makes it even better. You will find action, adventure, murder, and a beautiful yet deadly world.

If you love paranormal mysteries I recommend checking out this book. I think you are going to find a new author for your shelves. Now I can’t wait to see what Angel gets into next.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new a fun series! Its got a little of everything. Shifters, witches, fae, vampires and more! Angel is a newby forensic anthropologist. She's finding her feet in her new career and she's focused on succeeding. Her happiness comes at a standstill when an interesting case falls into her lap and she realizes she can't hide who she is anymore. A fae is dead and she's on it if people would stop messing with her! The cat....errr witch is out of the bag so to speak. I cant say too much without spoiling it but this has a ton of mystery that will have you laugh and be so sympathetic towards Angel's plight. This is also a continuing series and I cant wait to see what Angelina has in store for us in the next book!

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great variety

This book was given to me for an honest review.
Angel is a blood witch, but she had her grandmother seal off her powers 3 years ago. It looks like Angel is going to need them whether she wants them or not.
First off, it has a cliffhanger ending, so be prepared. This story has many different paranormal beings, I like the variety. The heroine has get back her witch magic (that she doesn't want), find out why her skeleton went missing, confront heads of the mafia. This young women has a lot on her plate to solve the mystery. I think the twist towards the end is going to be interesting in book 2 considering the belief our heroine holds.

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall rating: 4.6

I am a huge fan of a certain similar TV series so thus storyline with paranormal characters elevated my interest. Of course this authors ability to breathe life into these characters quickly captured my attention and I disappeared into the pages happily. There are crap loads of intriguing situations and details so needless to say, I want more ! A wonderful read that I am glad I have been exposed to! All my reviews are always voluntarily written.

[Suzanne Nemec · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Scented Bones was a fun read which I couldn't put down until the last page and Angel, made for a great lead character! I could tell the author put a lot of research into the forensic and other parts of the story. I especially loved all the interesting characters and all the paranormal infusion.

There were some great twists that left me craving for more books in, "The Svabodina Case Files" collection.

[Amandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting concept!
I love paranormal and crime books so this was right up my alley. It has an interesting blend of paranormal creatures as well as adding mob ties, that isn't something you read everyday. Add in the little snippets of romance and you have a winner.

Very interested to see more books in this series.

[Nikki Bao · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angel is a forensic anthropologist and a witch. She's studying a skeleton when she discovers that it isn't human and then it vanishes. Working with a psychopomp and werewolves will prove challenging, if not deadly. Will the victim have justice or will Angel join them?

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magical! Murder, mystery and mates... a fun urban paranormal mafia suspense that was unique and interesting to read. I enjoyed the different characters and creatures.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is different from what I normally read. It'd has a mixture of mafia and paranormal. It's a fun read and I enjoyed the storyline. A blooming relationship between characters leaves you earning for more, which I was a little upset over. lol. The author has everything worded in alot of details throughout the book.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun new paranormal series. It has it all. Plus some mystery all well. A definite must read for all paranormal lovers. I cannot wait to see what's next!

[FantasyThrillerRealm_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my goodness. I loved this paranormal romance with a mafia trope. I highly recommend reading this book.

[Sarah G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goes down as another off my 2019 Bookworm Bingo Challenge – A book with non-human characters. We have witches, werewolves, vampires and many more that will show up as the series continues. The Mafia paranormal families are causing trouble and Angel seems to be at the centre of it with a bones case she was working – one where they go missing. Vampires – the Kamorra – and werewolves – the Tarotia – seem to be at the top of it, but which to be more afraid of is anyone’s guess. Let’s the supernatural escapades begin.

I’ve recently just started watching Bones TV series so got a bit of a vibe throughout with Angel being a forensic anthropologist and all, not that she really likes the comparison herself though. She has a bit more to deal with than they do with all the paranormal stuff thrown in for good measure. Bones are something she knows but these ones in particular have a distinct feel to them – they are paranormal. Just when she is about the start the case she finds they have been taken. She has a feeling that she is meant to see this case through, no matter where it might lead. Where it leads is the middle of paranormal mafia situation. Seems she might need to be asking her Grandma to unlock her magic again after all as she is going to need it.

Now Angel’s best friend seems to have found her way into a certain paranormal mafia family without her knowing. The only way she finds out is when she tags along to a house party Lorenzo, Laura’s boyfriend, is at. If Angel had had her magic unlocked at the time she might have figured out a bit sooner what she was walking into. With her not being able to tell what they are she hopes that it goes both ways. Might not be the case, as some there seem to know her, or at least who her family is. Doesn’t take long before an interest is taken with her, she just didn’t know it was by werewolves at the time.

Now witches and werewolves have always had a turbulent relationship in the past stemming from an ancient feud. She wants to follow some leads on the case though and ends up at their door so to speak. She may feel nervous as a whole with being around them as she starts to figure out what they are but it’s one guy in particular who interests her. The moment Gage came near she felt as though an electric current was running right through her, talk about heart rate rising! Fear and attraction in equal measures.

Her magic might be back (side note, she has a cool automatic drawing power where she gets a vision from touching the bones, a vision of the paranormal girl they belong to) but she still wants to hide it from others to keep safe. I doubt she will be able to do that for long if she wants to solve the case. To get help from the Tarotia family she needs to get the Don something. Something the fae Queen has in her realm but will only give if she gets a favour in return. Gage is in for the ride too with getting it. He seems very protective of her, and ancient feud or no feud, there is chemistry brewing. Whether she’s ready for where it might lead is something else entirely. I think if you have read any kind of shifter book you will know why they’d feel that way. All I’ll say about the fae realm though is that you need to be careful what you eat as everything always has a catch.

I think we can all agree that Grandma knows best and has a knack for showing up at just the right time. Good job too as it was just when Angel was ready to have her magic back. Grandma also happens to be a bit of a badass, always having people watch out for Angel whether she knows it or not. Let’s hope some of her skills passed down to Angel.

A great start to a new series with lots of interesting characters and one that I’m looking forward to continuing with.

I received this ARC from the author for my honest review.
https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2...

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Werewolves, witches and vampires, a paranormal mafia- oh my! The story features Angel, a unique forensic anthropologist who also happens to be a witch. Her case involving missing bones of a supernatural victim makes an interesting, entertaining mystery. This mundane loved it and highly recommends spending an afternoon in Angel's world.

[Angi Burns ~Rabid Readers Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing magical read!

[Carol Cassada · Rating 4 out of 5]

Take a paranormal book with witches, werewolves, and vampires, add a mafia and crime, and you have the makings of a good story.

The book revolves around forensic anthropologist Angel Svabodina, who is a witch. Angel hasn’t used her powers in years, yet finds herself using magic when she investigates a crime involving a fae. Angel soon become immersed in a magic war between werewolves and vampires, and she has to decide who to trust.

This was a fun read and it had a bit of everything from paranormal to suspense to romance.

The book was filled with lots of unique characters, but my favorites were Angel, granny, and Mikhail. The story has suspenseful moments that kept you invested, but there was also some light-hearted moments. One of my favorite scenes is when Angel is practicing magic with her grandmother.

Overall, this is a great story and I’m looking forward to reading more about Angel.

[Vickie Chaisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Scented Bones by Angelina Kerner is an adrenaline junkies dream. With witches, mafia, werewolves, shapeshifers and the like just imagine what trouble you could get into. Imagine dealing with the mob...and findingout they aren't human. When Angel finds the body on her table isn't human but a fae girl who was left where everyone would find her..someone wants to start a war. The unusual plot and storyline keeps this book refreshing and enjoyable. Character development is outstanding and you want to know what happens next. This was an enjoyable read and I will be watching this author for future work

[Twocutescotties · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last night, I finished The Scented Bones. Loved it! I was hooked before I read through the first chapter and if it wasn't for adulting, I would not have put it down. Paranormal and mystery, two of my favorite genres, with a touch of romance to keep it all the more interesting. The story kept up the pace, never lagging so not once did I skip to get to another part ... I really don't like it when I have to do that. Get this book, you will fall in love with the story and the characters, like I did.
My question, Angelina Kerner ... how long must one wait for the next book? I am not a patient lady. 😉🥰

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a wide diversity of paranormal characters. For good measures throw in the mafia and they kick butt FMC. There's also a great supporting characters, villains you were gonna love to hate, and they will develop world and characters.
Angel is a forensic anthropologist but the case she's on is not regarding a human. Tag teaming with a wolf she has to find out who stole some bones of a dead fae. I'm all she's at it not get on the bad side of their queen. Unexpectedly the wolf turns out to be her mate. So she hast to try to not get distracted by him to do her job. But is that possible?

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great world I didn't want to leave it
At first it took me a while to get into the book, when I started reading I was in a reading slump, I've had so many books abandoned after a couple of chapters this days, because I couldn't seem to find anything to keep my interest. I thought I would have the same problem with the scented bones because the beginning had so much information but once I got past it I was able to get immersed and flew through this read
There is so much potential to this world I hope to see more books in this universe