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The Uncanny Ink #1
Bad Soul
Promises, rules, bones; Erin Banks will break them all.
Unscrupulous and lethal, Erin has everything she needs to be an assassin in a world full of mobsters, monsters, and magic.
She wasn’t born with powers, but thanks to her Uncanny Ink—arcane tattoos that transform her body into a magic-fuelled killing machine—she’s more than a match for anyone dumb enough to stand between her and getting paid.
Fresh out of prison, Erin wastes no time getting back to what she does best: running down wanted men and claiming their bounties.
But when a powerful demon lurking in a black cathedral hires her to round up an errant soul, the creature offers a reward far more valuable than money…
He offers Erin the key to unlocking her tragic past. The key to the mystery surrounding her long-lost brother.
Magic, scares, and acid-tongued snark collide in this thrilling urban fantasy series set in the Uncanny Kingdom. Buried secrets and whiplash twists will keep you riding the edge of your seat. Read Bad Soul now for a pulse-pounding tale you won’t be able to put down.162 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2018
176 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
David Bussell
37 books180 followersDavid Bussell is a best-selling British author renowned for his contributions to the urban fantasy genre. He is the co-creator of the Uncanny Kingdom, a series that explores a secret Britain teeming with paranormal suspense stories. His notable works include the "Spectral Detective" series. David's writing prowess has been recognized with the P.G. Wodehouse New Comic Writer Award. Beyond his literary achievements, he is an avid fencer, a lover of synthwave music, and a committed comic book fan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 8, 2020
Erin has the chance to find a clue to her brother's disappearance; as long as she does one little job for a demon.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Erin doesn't give a shit about anyone but herself. Especially after the wizard she was shagging let her get sent to prison.
Erin takes whatever work is going in the Uncanny world - where everything supernatural exists, ignored by most humans. And that work is often questionable on a legal and moral level.
I like that Erin isn't a hero. She's the main character of this book, and you kinda root for her (most of the time); but she's never a hero. She's foul-mouthed, and concerned with doing her job. She doesn't care who she upsets, hurts, or even kills.
She plays or pays the people she needs, as the concept of having friends, or people she can trust, is completely alien. Because no one ever does anything for nothing.
I thought the story was surprisingly short. Nearly 20% of the ebook I read was actually the opening chapters of the second book.
I felt that, even in this short book, Erin-being-a-growly/horny-bitch was just too heavy and overdone. We get it already.
That being said, the story did feel complete, as Erin finished her assignment.
Overall, I enjoyed this story, and look forward to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Erin doesn't give a shit about anyone but herself. Especially after the wizard she was shagging let her get sent to prison.
Erin takes whatever work is going in the Uncanny world - where everything supernatural exists, ignored by most humans. And that work is often questionable on a legal and moral level.
I like that Erin isn't a hero. She's the main character of this book, and you kinda root for her (most of the time); but she's never a hero. She's foul-mouthed, and concerned with doing her job. She doesn't care who she upsets, hurts, or even kills.
She plays or pays the people she needs, as the concept of having friends, or people she can trust, is completely alien. Because no one ever does anything for nothing.
I thought the story was surprisingly short. Nearly 20% of the ebook I read was actually the opening chapters of the second book.
I felt that, even in this short book, Erin-being-a-growly/horny-bitch was just too heavy and overdone. We get it already.
That being said, the story did feel complete, as Erin finished her assignment.
Overall, I enjoyed this story, and look forward to the rest of the series.
October 10, 2018
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is a completely explosive and action-filled start to the new Uncanny Ink series! A series I am already fully enamoured of after this book!!
I like the swift pace and unusual storyline, I was pulled in and engaged from the start. The characters are highly memorable for a variety of reasons, but I especially enjoyed their snark and banter. I also appreciated the healthy dose of darkish humour woven throughout, I giggled to myself several times. For me, the hallmarks of a stellar story are snark and humour, so this book is winning in its life.
As an anti-hero, Erin Banks' morals sometimes seem a bit askew, but at the same time she comes across as relatable. Or at least understandable. Imbued with, you guessed it, Uncanny Ink, a quick wit, and a propensity for slinging fists, Erin is unquestionably a badass. As such, her character is more than strong enough to build a full series on and still leave us wanting more.
Chock full of mystery, demons, kidnapping, and a plethora of the Uncanny, this story is a must-read for any fans of the supernatural in general and the Uncanny Kingdom in particular. Its a twisty, turny, macabre tale that is simply not to be missed!
I like the swift pace and unusual storyline, I was pulled in and engaged from the start. The characters are highly memorable for a variety of reasons, but I especially enjoyed their snark and banter. I also appreciated the healthy dose of darkish humour woven throughout, I giggled to myself several times. For me, the hallmarks of a stellar story are snark and humour, so this book is winning in its life.
As an anti-hero, Erin Banks' morals sometimes seem a bit askew, but at the same time she comes across as relatable. Or at least understandable. Imbued with, you guessed it, Uncanny Ink, a quick wit, and a propensity for slinging fists, Erin is unquestionably a badass. As such, her character is more than strong enough to build a full series on and still leave us wanting more.
Chock full of mystery, demons, kidnapping, and a plethora of the Uncanny, this story is a must-read for any fans of the supernatural in general and the Uncanny Kingdom in particular. Its a twisty, turny, macabre tale that is simply not to be missed!
December 30, 2018
I liked the unique premise and kind of liked the main character but her lack of moral turpitude bothered me and made her less sympathetic for me than she would have been if she had a few scruples. Also this book was very short. I read it in one day with lots of breaks to do other things. Not even a heavy reading day, although it was complete (not a cliff hanger type).
January 19, 2019
Erin Banks is a woman with an acid nature, a self-destructive streak, a bare minimum of morals and magical tattoos that boost her strength. When a demon approaches her with a deal, he offers her the one thing she won’t say no to: information on how her little brother disappeared when they were both children.
This was a short, fun read. It hits the ground running and doesn’t stop. Erin is foul-mouthed, bad-tempered, barely ethical and simply fun to follow around south-east England as she works the demon’s job. I particularly enjoyed when the story hit notes of horror. The authors come up with some creatively gruesome imagery.
This book was my introduction to the Uncanny Kingdom. I’ll be reading the sequel, and checking out some of the other denizens of this darker England.
This was a short, fun read. It hits the ground running and doesn’t stop. Erin is foul-mouthed, bad-tempered, barely ethical and simply fun to follow around south-east England as she works the demon’s job. I particularly enjoyed when the story hit notes of horror. The authors come up with some creatively gruesome imagery.
This book was my introduction to the Uncanny Kingdom. I’ll be reading the sequel, and checking out some of the other denizens of this darker England.
November 9, 2018
Interesting...
I lobe Erin’s chatter and banter. I can totally picture her when reading this story. It’s a good start to series mystery of her brothers disappearance and then her finally get a lead. It’s just that felt like towards then something else was needed for me to capture my attention... I read it. Enjoyed MC personality of not given a S****. But it didn’t leave me with a want to read the next book in series. I gave it 3 stars just because I liked the MC banter and just the stuff that came out of her mouth. Lol a lot of moments, but besides that...it was an okay read.
I lobe Erin’s chatter and banter. I can totally picture her when reading this story. It’s a good start to series mystery of her brothers disappearance and then her finally get a lead. It’s just that felt like towards then something else was needed for me to capture my attention... I read it. Enjoyed MC personality of not given a S****. But it didn’t leave me with a want to read the next book in series. I gave it 3 stars just because I liked the MC banter and just the stuff that came out of her mouth. Lol a lot of moments, but besides that...it was an okay read.
October 13, 2018
“Magic, scares, and acid-tongued snark collide...””
I don’t know how David Bussell and MV Stott do it, but somehow they’ve populated their shared Uncanny Kingdom world with characters that appeal to me on some core level. Perhaps it’s my own acid-tongued snarky nature but who cares: the results are still there. I’ve yet to come across any of their several separately authored series where I didn’t totally “click” with the lead character. No surprise then that I eagerly jumped at the chance to read Bad Soul, the first in their new Uncanny Ink series. This is the first time the dynamic duo have actually co-authored a book in their shared world and, well, just: wow. I’m blown away. The lead here, Erin Banks, is simply spectacular. She’s an assassin with no natural magery but, thanks to arcane tattoos (the “uncanny ink” of the series name) her body has been transformed into a magic-fuelled killing machine. She is one total, and totally wonderful, kick-a** b**ch. I adore her and how she interacts in her world with its mobsters, monsters, mayhem and magic. She’s made a deal with a demon here in order to be able what really happened to her and her brother when she was little. She’ll track down her brother don’t you worry / and its going to be a ball following allow as she goes about finding him. All I have to say is Carlisle better have been telling her the truth, and I almost feel sorry for the Red-Eyed Man - both of which comments will make sense when you read this book, which, really, you simply must do if you’ve any interest at all in urban fantasy. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m so much looking forward to Bad Blood, the next book in this series.
I don’t know how David Bussell and MV Stott do it, but somehow they’ve populated their shared Uncanny Kingdom world with characters that appeal to me on some core level. Perhaps it’s my own acid-tongued snarky nature but who cares: the results are still there. I’ve yet to come across any of their several separately authored series where I didn’t totally “click” with the lead character. No surprise then that I eagerly jumped at the chance to read Bad Soul, the first in their new Uncanny Ink series. This is the first time the dynamic duo have actually co-authored a book in their shared world and, well, just: wow. I’m blown away. The lead here, Erin Banks, is simply spectacular. She’s an assassin with no natural magery but, thanks to arcane tattoos (the “uncanny ink” of the series name) her body has been transformed into a magic-fuelled killing machine. She is one total, and totally wonderful, kick-a** b**ch. I adore her and how she interacts in her world with its mobsters, monsters, mayhem and magic. She’s made a deal with a demon here in order to be able what really happened to her and her brother when she was little. She’ll track down her brother don’t you worry / and its going to be a ball following allow as she goes about finding him. All I have to say is Carlisle better have been telling her the truth, and I almost feel sorry for the Red-Eyed Man - both of which comments will make sense when you read this book, which, really, you simply must do if you’ve any interest at all in urban fantasy. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m so much looking forward to Bad Blood, the next book in this series.
April 2, 2019
This is fun. The snark, the bad, self-destructive attitude of a girl who just can't resist that last taunt that results in a fist swinging into her face-this first book in the co-written/linked Uncanny Kingdom series (Uncanny Ink) has it all in spades.
Erin is an assassin and hired muscle, only her muscle is due to constantly re-inked and painful magical tattoos. Having lost a brother under mysterious circumstances at a young age caused her initiation into the Uncanny Kingdom, or other London, of magical beings and now she spends her time going after rogue weres and stealing and trying to find out if the mysterious red-eyed man in her vague childhood memories is real.
Like I said, this is super fun. Smart, funny, irreverent with tons of action. Her mutual betrayal relationship with hottie Kirklander fit nicely into the genre archetype. She reminded me a bit of Jessica Jones in her wanton physical aggression. However, while it was fun to visit, I don't think I'll be spending more time with Erin despite the tantalizing clue she gets at the end of the book.
This may be a bit gender stereotyped, but to me (I'm female) Erin is too much of a male anti-hero action figure. There's very little to none emotional development or place for me to hook my heart into. She just read too....male for me. Don't get me wrong. I love male UF heroes as well. Aaronovitch's Rivers of London features a male protagonist policeman who seems, on the outside, to be just straight forward, no emotional dwelling, action figure-- but somehow manages to convey immense emotional attachment.
Without a place for me to hook my heart onto a main character, I'll enjoy for a first book, but I won't be pulled along for a longer ride. Still, this is probably a personal preference and with this book's tight prose, snark, and consistent plotting I think many would enjoy it.
Erin is an assassin and hired muscle, only her muscle is due to constantly re-inked and painful magical tattoos. Having lost a brother under mysterious circumstances at a young age caused her initiation into the Uncanny Kingdom, or other London, of magical beings and now she spends her time going after rogue weres and stealing and trying to find out if the mysterious red-eyed man in her vague childhood memories is real.
Like I said, this is super fun. Smart, funny, irreverent with tons of action. Her mutual betrayal relationship with hottie Kirklander fit nicely into the genre archetype. She reminded me a bit of Jessica Jones in her wanton physical aggression. However, while it was fun to visit, I don't think I'll be spending more time with Erin despite the tantalizing clue she gets at the end of the book.
This may be a bit gender stereotyped, but to me (I'm female) Erin is too much of a male anti-hero action figure. There's very little to none emotional development or place for me to hook my heart into. She just read too....male for me. Don't get me wrong. I love male UF heroes as well. Aaronovitch's Rivers of London features a male protagonist policeman who seems, on the outside, to be just straight forward, no emotional dwelling, action figure-- but somehow manages to convey immense emotional attachment.
Without a place for me to hook my heart onto a main character, I'll enjoy for a first book, but I won't be pulled along for a longer ride. Still, this is probably a personal preference and with this book's tight prose, snark, and consistent plotting I think many would enjoy it.
October 12, 2018
This is the start of yet another fantastic series from the Uncanny Kingdom boys, the first one that David and Matt have co-authored and it's a belter. I couldn't put it down and the best news is that they have committed to writing at least six books in this series, whereas all the other ones have only been three books, to date. And if you liked any of the other series, you won't be disappointed with this one. It's full of all the usual Uncanny traits - sarcasm, fabulous new characters, creepy monsters, old friends, fighting, sarcasm, tattoos, a kick-ass heroine, and did I mention sarcasm? All from the imaginations of two warped individuals, scratch that, I meant extremely talented writers!
Erin Banks is not your typical heroine. Fresh out of prison, an human assassin with magical tattoos, an event from her childhood has shaped Erin into what she has become and overshadows her life even now. She is definitely a woman on a mission, and doesn't care what she has to do to survive and find answers. She does bad things but you can't help but like her and feel for her, especially as she is incapable of keeping her mouth shut for her own good. Why keep quiet when you can make any situation worse with a sarky comment?
I am looking forward to the next one to see how Erin is going to fare in her search for answers, taking names and kicking arse big time all round Brighton. I don't know why but setting this series and the Hexed Detective series (in Blackpool) in seedy seaside backdrops somehow makes both towns characters in their own right and adds more atmosphere to the books.
I loved this book and suggest you read it now so you're ready for Bad Blood. Hurry up because both books are out at the same time!
Erin Banks is not your typical heroine. Fresh out of prison, an human assassin with magical tattoos, an event from her childhood has shaped Erin into what she has become and overshadows her life even now. She is definitely a woman on a mission, and doesn't care what she has to do to survive and find answers. She does bad things but you can't help but like her and feel for her, especially as she is incapable of keeping her mouth shut for her own good. Why keep quiet when you can make any situation worse with a sarky comment?
I am looking forward to the next one to see how Erin is going to fare in her search for answers, taking names and kicking arse big time all round Brighton. I don't know why but setting this series and the Hexed Detective series (in Blackpool) in seedy seaside backdrops somehow makes both towns characters in their own right and adds more atmosphere to the books.
I loved this book and suggest you read it now so you're ready for Bad Blood. Hurry up because both books are out at the same time!
January 24, 2019
I received a free copy of this book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
There are not too many books where I absolutely love the heroine, if you can call her that. But Bad Soul is. We meet Erin Banks when she is in prison serving three years. Why? Well, she’s not exactly you average young lady. She’s a thief, occasionally an assassin, and totally willing to break a few bones if necessary. She has only served six months when she was unexpectedly released from prison. It seemed she had a demon who wanted to hire her.
Now her unique skills and abilities become extremely important. That demon had a job for her, and she would need all her abilities, skill and experience. The long man wanted her to find Brian Teller and bring his soul back to the demon. To help her accomplish her mission the demon gives her a knife that she is to stick into Brian’s heart, where it will absorb his soul, and bring the soul to him. Erin is not exactly a moral woman, she is capable of fulfilling the job, and the pay will be worth it. Erin will be given information about her missing brother. Her baby brother.
When Erin was 9 and in charge of taking care of her brother James, she took her eyes off him, and he disappeared, in a bubble, in a floating bubble. She alone knew what happened, no one believed her and her parents all but abandoned her. He was never found, never heard from. Now Erin had a chance to find out some information about him. The demon offered this to her in lieu of money. She could not resist.
Erin’s character is wonderfully developed and totally engrossing. I connected with her even though I have nothing in common with her at all. The writing is easy but well done and the story flows smoothly. It held my interest from the moment I picked it up until finished. I would definitely recommend this book to any and all. It is a fun read.
There are not too many books where I absolutely love the heroine, if you can call her that. But Bad Soul is. We meet Erin Banks when she is in prison serving three years. Why? Well, she’s not exactly you average young lady. She’s a thief, occasionally an assassin, and totally willing to break a few bones if necessary. She has only served six months when she was unexpectedly released from prison. It seemed she had a demon who wanted to hire her.
Now her unique skills and abilities become extremely important. That demon had a job for her, and she would need all her abilities, skill and experience. The long man wanted her to find Brian Teller and bring his soul back to the demon. To help her accomplish her mission the demon gives her a knife that she is to stick into Brian’s heart, where it will absorb his soul, and bring the soul to him. Erin is not exactly a moral woman, she is capable of fulfilling the job, and the pay will be worth it. Erin will be given information about her missing brother. Her baby brother.
When Erin was 9 and in charge of taking care of her brother James, she took her eyes off him, and he disappeared, in a bubble, in a floating bubble. She alone knew what happened, no one believed her and her parents all but abandoned her. He was never found, never heard from. Now Erin had a chance to find out some information about him. The demon offered this to her in lieu of money. She could not resist.
Erin’s character is wonderfully developed and totally engrossing. I connected with her even though I have nothing in common with her at all. The writing is easy but well done and the story flows smoothly. It held my interest from the moment I picked it up until finished. I would definitely recommend this book to any and all. It is a fun read.
December 13, 2018
Erin Banks is a human assassin, but with the use of her magically inked tattoos she is able to access the Uncanny Kingdom and use the magic to enhance her speed and strength. Unfortunately Erin happens to be in prison, having been caught on a job and left behind by her boyfriend/partner in crime. However, someone wants her help and pulls some strings to get her released.
The Long Man, a powerful demon, offers her more than money to carry out the job he wants her to do - more than she could ever have hoped for and not an offer she can possibly turn down. However, the job, to retrieve a soul from a man who has run out on his bargain, is not quite as simple as all that. The reappearance of her ex boyfriend throws a spanner in the works as well - she just cannot resist him despite how many times he screws her over.
I really enjoyed this book and loved Erin. She wasn't a typical "heroine" by any means, if a heroine at all. She was hilarious and determined, vulnerable and passionate. Her morals are not maybe "correct", but you can definitely understand why she does the things she does. Underneath her hard exterior, is someone who just wants to be loved again by those who hurt her, but the only way to do that is to find the one person who has been missing from her life for years!
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series and to find out what Erin will do on her quest to find her missing piece!
The Long Man, a powerful demon, offers her more than money to carry out the job he wants her to do - more than she could ever have hoped for and not an offer she can possibly turn down. However, the job, to retrieve a soul from a man who has run out on his bargain, is not quite as simple as all that. The reappearance of her ex boyfriend throws a spanner in the works as well - she just cannot resist him despite how many times he screws her over.
I really enjoyed this book and loved Erin. She wasn't a typical "heroine" by any means, if a heroine at all. She was hilarious and determined, vulnerable and passionate. Her morals are not maybe "correct", but you can definitely understand why she does the things she does. Underneath her hard exterior, is someone who just wants to be loved again by those who hurt her, but the only way to do that is to find the one person who has been missing from her life for years!
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series and to find out what Erin will do on her quest to find her missing piece!
October 14, 2018
I have picked up on a couple of the Uncanny Kingdom books, yet something always happened. Something that would snap me away from them. Damn life that way! Friendly emails would appear from time to time, reminding me that this new world was waiting for me. So, Very Happily, "Bad Soul" nabbed and kept me grabbed.
Erin Banks is a very troubled young lady. An event from early in life changed her. And the change was not for the best.
Erin has an interesting set of magical abilities, which has also opened her up so she can recognize some of the possibilities of the strange and unnatural world that most of us "Normals" are blind to.
Working as a type of bounty hunter, she takes on a job she's rather iffy about. What seals the deal for her comes from the tease of a unique payment. Far more compelling than money, upon completing her mission, Erin will get back part of her missing memories. She's hoping this will be the missing key to open for her what Really happened on the night that so haunts her life. Along the way, we meet several interesting characters that I am sure we will see again in future adventures.
And this was FUN enough that I am now very much looking forward to digging into this connected universe - this Uncanny Kingdom!
Erin Banks is a very troubled young lady. An event from early in life changed her. And the change was not for the best.
Erin has an interesting set of magical abilities, which has also opened her up so she can recognize some of the possibilities of the strange and unnatural world that most of us "Normals" are blind to.
Working as a type of bounty hunter, she takes on a job she's rather iffy about. What seals the deal for her comes from the tease of a unique payment. Far more compelling than money, upon completing her mission, Erin will get back part of her missing memories. She's hoping this will be the missing key to open for her what Really happened on the night that so haunts her life. Along the way, we meet several interesting characters that I am sure we will see again in future adventures.
And this was FUN enough that I am now very much looking forward to digging into this connected universe - this Uncanny Kingdom!
January 20, 2021
This story is a bit different from other Uncanny kingdom's, IMO. There is a lot of telling, I think the reason for this is the length of the book, it's short and we got a lot of story in there. From the way she is able to use magic, which is amazing BTW since she is human, to how she end up as assassin and imprisoned, and finally the job she had to do after being released from prison. It's very fast paced, but I felt it was too fast, some things too glossed over.
But even so, I enjoyed the story and the writing is, like always, amazing. My main problem was the main character. Erin is not a likable character, with lack of morals and juvenile attitude of a 15 y/o. I find her with little depth and not always her actions made sense.
I'm curious about what's going to happen next since at the last minute, my favorite character of the Uncanny kingdom appears!
I think Helena Little was a good choice for Erin's character. She has a strong and more mature voice, giving a little more depth to the character. She also does some cool different voices for each character, it's amazing the amount of voices she is able to deliver.
But even so, I enjoyed the story and the writing is, like always, amazing. My main problem was the main character. Erin is not a likable character, with lack of morals and juvenile attitude of a 15 y/o. I find her with little depth and not always her actions made sense.
I'm curious about what's going to happen next since at the last minute, my favorite character of the Uncanny kingdom appears!
I think Helena Little was a good choice for Erin's character. She has a strong and more mature voice, giving a little more depth to the character. She also does some cool different voices for each character, it's amazing the amount of voices she is able to deliver.
September 6, 2023
"Bad Soul", first in the 'Uncanny Ink' series features a badass anti-hero in the form of Erin Banks.
Her moral compass is determined by the amount of money she is being paid but it's not something she spends time worrying about. Her life is a mess and, as the story begins, she is six months into a prison stretch for grievous bodily harm.
Suddenly she's released and it's time to top up her magical tattoos and get back to work. A demon, The Long Man, has been swindled and he wants the soul he was promised.
He's not offering gold or rubies, rather he promises to give Erin information concerning the disappearance of her brother as a child. Erin saw what happened that night but no-one believed her story of magical happenings.
"Bad Soul" is at its best when it's snarky, maybe not quite so much on the horror side (which, in my humble opinion, is a good thing as I don't handle true horror well).
Erin isn't evil but she's teetering on the edge. I did like her love hate relationship with the morally bankrupt, but physically gorgeous, wizard Kirklander.
3.5 Stars, raised to 4 Stars
Her moral compass is determined by the amount of money she is being paid but it's not something she spends time worrying about. Her life is a mess and, as the story begins, she is six months into a prison stretch for grievous bodily harm.
Suddenly she's released and it's time to top up her magical tattoos and get back to work. A demon, The Long Man, has been swindled and he wants the soul he was promised.
He's not offering gold or rubies, rather he promises to give Erin information concerning the disappearance of her brother as a child. Erin saw what happened that night but no-one believed her story of magical happenings.
"Bad Soul" is at its best when it's snarky, maybe not quite so much on the horror side (which, in my humble opinion, is a good thing as I don't handle true horror well).
Erin isn't evil but she's teetering on the edge. I did like her love hate relationship with the morally bankrupt, but physically gorgeous, wizard Kirklander.
3.5 Stars, raised to 4 Stars
January 8, 2019
Really glad I became an ARC reader so I'd get this fun horror story.
A new character in the Uncanny Kingdom is introduced. The title describes her: a badly damaged psyche resulting from a childhood trauma involving the abduction of her baby brother by 'something' (a walking pig and red-eyed man? come on!) from the Uncanny Kingdom. Her mission in life is to find her baby brother and avenge his abduction. This has made her a violent, dangerous person, her strength augmented by 'Uncanny Ink'.
2019/01/07 - I read this several months ago, reviewed on Amazon and Bookbub but not here. In the meantime, 5 more books with Erin Banks tracking down the miscreants who kidnapped her baby brother have come out. This is the book to start with, and then read in order. There's a huge amount of background, as well as really fun "horror" stories, interesting Uncanny characters and their dynamics, arse kicking, etc. I love the writing style (some may not, but that's their loss).
A new character in the Uncanny Kingdom is introduced. The title describes her: a badly damaged psyche resulting from a childhood trauma involving the abduction of her baby brother by 'something' (a walking pig and red-eyed man? come on!) from the Uncanny Kingdom. Her mission in life is to find her baby brother and avenge his abduction. This has made her a violent, dangerous person, her strength augmented by 'Uncanny Ink'.
2019/01/07 - I read this several months ago, reviewed on Amazon and Bookbub but not here. In the meantime, 5 more books with Erin Banks tracking down the miscreants who kidnapped her baby brother have come out. This is the book to start with, and then read in order. There's a huge amount of background, as well as really fun "horror" stories, interesting Uncanny characters and their dynamics, arse kicking, etc. I love the writing style (some may not, but that's their loss).
February 3, 2019
This was an entertaining and light read. There were a lot of great things going for it. The highlight for me was the world itself, the Uncanny Kingdom, I really really want to know more! The magic itself was interesting and the fact that a human could, with the right help, level the playing field slightly and operate with the supernaturals is a good one.
My main problem arose with Erin herself, I just did not like her. Whilst I like snark with my main characters, I felt there was a careless don't give a damn side to Erin that didn't mesh with her goal to finding out about James and it grated on me. Also we're in England here people, why didn't someone notice the supernatural take over a whole village? So yes I got a little lost in the believability of this book but the world was intriguing enough for to maybe pick up one of the other series featuring another main character and give it a try.
My main problem arose with Erin herself, I just did not like her. Whilst I like snark with my main characters, I felt there was a careless don't give a damn side to Erin that didn't mesh with her goal to finding out about James and it grated on me. Also we're in England here people, why didn't someone notice the supernatural take over a whole village? So yes I got a little lost in the believability of this book but the world was intriguing enough for to maybe pick up one of the other series featuring another main character and give it a try.
October 20, 2018
The First book in a new thrilling urban fantasy series set in the Uncanny Kingdom is an amazing, awesome read.
It features Erin banks, who is bad, bad, bad and deadly at what she does.
Expertly penned, it has everything that the Uncanny Kingdome is renowned for.
Magic abounds as Demons, monsters, mobsters, old friends and vivid and interesting new characters join the fray in this fantastic new story.
Full of action, with lots of sarcasm and humour, the various scenes hold the reader in suspense from page one.
The Author has created a story (but what a story!) that is exciting to read, is well laid out, hard to put down and leaves the reader wanting more when it is finished. Recommended!
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Gifted with a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
It features Erin banks, who is bad, bad, bad and deadly at what she does.
Expertly penned, it has everything that the Uncanny Kingdome is renowned for.
Magic abounds as Demons, monsters, mobsters, old friends and vivid and interesting new characters join the fray in this fantastic new story.
Full of action, with lots of sarcasm and humour, the various scenes hold the reader in suspense from page one.
The Author has created a story (but what a story!) that is exciting to read, is well laid out, hard to put down and leaves the reader wanting more when it is finished. Recommended!
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Gifted with a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
June 4, 2019
I really liked the setup, the mc is rough around the edges and not what many would consider a good person. Erin is an assassin that is haunted by her little brothers kidnapping years ago and she's immersed herself in the Uncanny world (supernatural) to get to the bottom of it. I love that she's not whiny or the world savior type and at least in this book there' no true love/romance aspect, hope that continues. For reference this could be considered a bit like the Imp series and Elemental Assassin, if you liked those then pick this up :)
May 13, 2021
Format: audiobook
Narrator: Helena Little
I love the uncanny kingdom world and this story, book 1 in the uncanny ink series, does not disappoint in any way.
The wit and snarkiness make it a fun read and with the uniqueness of the world these books easily grab your attention and keep it.
These two authors really do know how to make magic happen and long may they continue.
This narrator does a fantastic job at bringing the story to life.
Narrator: Helena Little
I love the uncanny kingdom world and this story, book 1 in the uncanny ink series, does not disappoint in any way.
The wit and snarkiness make it a fun read and with the uniqueness of the world these books easily grab your attention and keep it.
These two authors really do know how to make magic happen and long may they continue.
This narrator does a fantastic job at bringing the story to life.
November 27, 2018
This is the first book from this author and this world that I picked up and I'm seriously thankful I did. It's seriously spectacular not to mention ridiculous witty. You're dragged into this world by the first page and speed through it all too quickly. David Bussell is an incredible talent and will no doubt become a new favorite.
November 29, 2018
Erin
A good start to an intriguing new series by a new to me author. Erin is desperate to find out information about her brother that went missing as when she was a child and she'll make deals with demons and do anything to find out what happened to him and why. Lots of mystery, suspense, and danger.
A good start to an intriguing new series by a new to me author. Erin is desperate to find out information about her brother that went missing as when she was a child and she'll make deals with demons and do anything to find out what happened to him and why. Lots of mystery, suspense, and danger.
January 21, 2019
Doing jobs for demons is not usually a good idea but this one tempts Erin with something she really can't get any other way-- pieces of the mystery in her past. And when she sees the havoc that results from someone trying to break their demonic bargain, no excuse is going to keep her from making the cheat pay up with his soul.
Don't cheat demons.
Don't cheat demons.
January 16, 2020
Erin is a drunk, potty-mouthed mess... and I love her! She's a human with one foot in the human world and the other firmly planted firmly in the uncanny world. Since she is human she needs magically enhanced tattoos to survive the uncanny; tattoos that heal her, make her faster and stronger... and hurt like hell.
Read all books in a week and couldn't put them down. Loved the writing.
Read all books in a week and couldn't put them down. Loved the writing.
January 7, 2021
No spoilers... read it if you like kick ass action in your fantasy books. All I’ll say about Erin (the anti-hero) is she’s a baaaaaaaad girl with a mission and come hell or high water she’ll get it sorted even if there a couple of broken bones and a couple (well... a shed load more than a couple) of fatalities along
Off to read book 2 now 😊
Off to read book 2 now 😊
March 27, 2021
Weirdly good for a bad dude
3.5
So weird... But good. I love that this bad person is actually bad. But my type of bad, in the sense that all bad people are just hurting. Her thing with Jerkface was grating but if you just keep thinking about how she's bad, then it's actually pretty good.
I loved how freaking creepy this was. Very unique to me in that aspect. I'd read more.
3.5
So weird... But good. I love that this bad person is actually bad. But my type of bad, in the sense that all bad people are just hurting. Her thing with Jerkface was grating but if you just keep thinking about how she's bad, then it's actually pretty good.
I loved how freaking creepy this was. Very unique to me in that aspect. I'd read more.
February 10, 2019
Unique, gritty entry into the U.F. collection that I truly enjoyed. A bit short and light on some plot and character development, but solid Neil Gaiman-esque worldbuilding and plenty of great foundation on the M.C. Love the format and possibilities, and looking forward to the next.
March 12, 2019
Bit ill when I read this. So my view might not be 100%
Some parts I really liked, like she's really not a nice person, and that's kinda refreshing for an urban fantasy. I disliked that there wasn't more gum-shoe-ing, and that plot changes were very deus ex machina
Some parts I really liked, like she's really not a nice person, and that's kinda refreshing for an urban fantasy. I disliked that there wasn't more gum-shoe-ing, and that plot changes were very deus ex machina
April 11, 2020
Quick & fast paced with snappy dialogue. Erin is definitely an anti-heroine who is seriously lacking in morals. But despite the lack of a decent moral compass she was certainly entertaining to read and you gotta respect that she owns her behaviour. No excuses for who she is or what she does.
May 16, 2020
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A great start to a new series in the Uncanny Kingdom. Already have the next book ready to go. Awesome characters you will love or love to hate. Horror level dark with plenty of grim comedy to shine some light.
A great start to a new series in the Uncanny Kingdom. Already have the next book ready to go. Awesome characters you will love or love to hate. Horror level dark with plenty of grim comedy to shine some light.
March 22, 2021
Another great addition to the Uncanny world!
Great fun, action packed book with a brilliantly sarcastic badass female lead! Not for a younger audience due to the language but for adults wanting a fun urban fantasy read it's a must!
Great fun, action packed book with a brilliantly sarcastic badass female lead! Not for a younger audience due to the language but for adults wanting a fun urban fantasy read it's a must!
March 23, 2021
Antiheroine
This is a lovely twisted story, with a sort of antiheroine, with magic tattoos, a demon, an ex that’s a major d*Ck and deserves everything he gets and a quest to find a kidnapped sibling. Fascinating , complex and unique, I loved it
This is a lovely twisted story, with a sort of antiheroine, with magic tattoos, a demon, an ex that’s a major d*Ck and deserves everything he gets and a quest to find a kidnapped sibling. Fascinating , complex and unique, I loved it
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