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Sasha Urban #4
Sleight of Fantasy
My deal with Nero and my growing powers are supposed to keep me and my loved ones safe—yet the unthinkable happens. When lines are crossed and blood is spilled, nothing will ever be the same again.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2019
321 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Dima Zales
110 books737 followersDima Zales is a full-time science fiction and fantasy author residing in Palm Coast, Florida. Prior to becoming a writer, he worked in the software development industry in New York as both a programmer and an executive. From high-frequency trading software for big banks to mobile apps for popular magazines, Dima has done it all. In 2013, he left the software industry in order to concentrate on his writing career.
Dima holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from NYU and a dual undergraduate degree in Computer Science / Psychology from Brooklyn College. He also has a number of hobbies and interests, the most unusual of which might be professional-level mentalism. He simulates mind-reading on stage and close-up, and has done shows for corporations, wealthy individuals, and friends.
He is also into healthy eating and fitness, so he should live long enough to finish all the book projects he starts. In fact, he very much hopes to catch the technological advancements that might let him live forever (biologically or otherwise). Aside from that, he also enjoys learning about current and future technologies that might enhance our lives, including artificial intelligence, biofeedback, brain-to-computer interfaces, and brain-enhancing implants.
In addition to his own works, Dima has collaborated on a number of romance novels with his wife, Anna Zaires. The Krinar Chronicles, an erotic science fiction series, has been a bestseller in its categories and has been recognized by the likes of Marie Claire and Woman’s Day. If you like erotic romance with a unique plot, please feel free to check it out, especially since the first book in the series (Close Liaisons) is available for free everywhere. Keep in mind, though, Dima Zales's books are going to be much more PG 13 . . . at least that’s the plan for now.
Anna Zaires is the love of his life and a huge inspiration in every aspect of his writing. She definitely adds her magic touch to anything Dima creates, and the books would not be the same without her. Dima’s fans are strongly encouraged to learn more about Anna and her work at http://www.annazaires.com/
Dima holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from NYU and a dual undergraduate degree in Computer Science / Psychology from Brooklyn College. He also has a number of hobbies and interests, the most unusual of which might be professional-level mentalism. He simulates mind-reading on stage and close-up, and has done shows for corporations, wealthy individuals, and friends.
He is also into healthy eating and fitness, so he should live long enough to finish all the book projects he starts. In fact, he very much hopes to catch the technological advancements that might let him live forever (biologically or otherwise). Aside from that, he also enjoys learning about current and future technologies that might enhance our lives, including artificial intelligence, biofeedback, brain-to-computer interfaces, and brain-enhancing implants.
In addition to his own works, Dima has collaborated on a number of romance novels with his wife, Anna Zaires. The Krinar Chronicles, an erotic science fiction series, has been a bestseller in its categories and has been recognized by the likes of Marie Claire and Woman’s Day. If you like erotic romance with a unique plot, please feel free to check it out, especially since the first book in the series (Close Liaisons) is available for free everywhere. Keep in mind, though, Dima Zales's books are going to be much more PG 13 . . . at least that’s the plan for now.
Anna Zaires is the love of his life and a huge inspiration in every aspect of his writing. She definitely adds her magic touch to anything Dima creates, and the books would not be the same without her. Dima’s fans are strongly encouraged to learn more about Anna and her work at http://www.annazaires.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 16, 2020
Sleight of Fantasy
Sasha Urban Series, Book 4
By: Dima Zales, Anna Zaires
Narrated by: Emily Durante
I love this series! This book has many things come together and it ends good and bad! Sob! Some of our loved characters don't make it and others will probably be more involved. Lots of action and new supernatural fun comes up. Great interactions between characters, great world building, and that hint of romance.
The narration is terrific.
Sasha Urban Series, Book 4
By: Dima Zales, Anna Zaires
Narrated by: Emily Durante
I love this series! This book has many things come together and it ends good and bad! Sob! Some of our loved characters don't make it and others will probably be more involved. Lots of action and new supernatural fun comes up. Great interactions between characters, great world building, and that hint of romance.
The narration is terrific.
October 17, 2019
3 Stars
This one started really annoying me as it pushed further into that annoying m/f trope of two people dancing around each other and not being able to think rationally because their hormones are all over the place. Really - do sexual folk in reality lose the ability to focus on more important things when someone they find attractive (regardless of orientation) walks into the room? Sasha certainly does. It was truly annoying to have to read and not all that enjoyable, though I'm sure there are folks who do enjoy that sort of thing. Bleh. For me, it just slowed an otherwise enjoyable story's pacing down.
In this one, a deal Sasha made with a witch known as Baba Yaga (see Russian folklore) in the first book, comes due. It's not what she's expecting, but is definitely not something she finds palatable and refuses outright. Baba Yaga's not amused to have such a promising payment slip away and starts taking her anger out on people who are close to Sasha in a variety of ways. Though the old witch has a contract with Sasha's mentor, Nero, that promises no harm to either him or his mentee, she's not above hurting others to get at what she wants.
For her part, Sasha bothers me. She under-reacts to things her mentor/boss/tormentor does to get her to comply to his demands. He wants her to focus on getting him stock tips, which is fine, but in order to do so, he essentially puts her in a big metal cage with a countdown lock and punishes her for goofing off by doubling her "work allotment" (8 hour stretches). Now if someone had done that to me, cut me off from communications, etc., even with all the amenities Nero gives her (a Jacuzzi, full size kitchen and bath), I would be crying foul, I don't care how nice the cage is. Yes, she still doesn't really do the work he wants from her, she takes full advantage of the kitchen and bath, etc., but it still bothered me that she isn't more angry about such treatment.
All this is on top of her losing a dear friend and having other people in her life endangered by the witch and her colleagues. I get shock taking it toll on emotional delay, that I understand, but the cage thing is immediate and annoying. sigh. I get that Nero as boss and mentor is trying to keep his 'ward' and employee safe. I get it, I do, but I don't have to like how he's doing the protection thing. Also, the whole ambiguity of boss/mentor-employee/mentee attraction thing just drives me up the wall. Why can't they just be friends? I really like the relationships Sasha has with her apartment mates, Felix & Ariel. Those relationships are just wonderful in comparison.
This one started really annoying me as it pushed further into that annoying m/f trope of two people dancing around each other and not being able to think rationally because their hormones are all over the place. Really - do sexual folk in reality lose the ability to focus on more important things when someone they find attractive (regardless of orientation) walks into the room? Sasha certainly does. It was truly annoying to have to read and not all that enjoyable, though I'm sure there are folks who do enjoy that sort of thing. Bleh. For me, it just slowed an otherwise enjoyable story's pacing down.
In this one, a deal Sasha made with a witch known as Baba Yaga (see Russian folklore) in the first book, comes due. It's not what she's expecting, but is definitely not something she finds palatable and refuses outright. Baba Yaga's not amused to have such a promising payment slip away and starts taking her anger out on people who are close to Sasha in a variety of ways. Though the old witch has a contract with Sasha's mentor, Nero, that promises no harm to either him or his mentee, she's not above hurting others to get at what she wants.
For her part, Sasha bothers me. She under-reacts to things her mentor/boss/tormentor does to get her to comply to his demands. He wants her to focus on getting him stock tips, which is fine, but in order to do so, he essentially puts her in a big metal cage with a countdown lock and punishes her for goofing off by doubling her "work allotment" (8 hour stretches). Now if someone had done that to me, cut me off from communications, etc., even with all the amenities Nero gives her (a Jacuzzi, full size kitchen and bath), I would be crying foul, I don't care how nice the cage is. Yes, she still doesn't really do the work he wants from her, she takes full advantage of the kitchen and bath, etc., but it still bothered me that she isn't more angry about such treatment.
All this is on top of her losing a dear friend and having other people in her life endangered by the witch and her colleagues. I get shock taking it toll on emotional delay, that I understand, but the cage thing is immediate and annoying. sigh. I get that Nero as boss and mentor is trying to keep his 'ward' and employee safe. I get it, I do, but I don't have to like how he's doing the protection thing. Also, the whole ambiguity of boss/mentor-employee/mentee attraction thing just drives me up the wall. Why can't they just be friends? I really like the relationships Sasha has with her apartment mates, Felix & Ariel. Those relationships are just wonderful in comparison.
April 6, 2020
4.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
Roooh I had a hard time not getting into the next book as soon as I finish a volume of the Sasha Urban series! Besides, I succumbed and I’ve already ordered Volume 5! I see that it will soon no longer be possible to do this and I must admit that I am already sad about it. But in the meantime, I continue with great pleasure!
Sasha is back at work and Nero is again her mentor. The latter is determined to protect her as much as he can and it all starts with teaching her to fight! And it’s not that easy. But here’s the thing: on top of that, Sasha will try to understand her growing powers and what she can do with them. And it must be said that she will discover things she didn’t expect. And then there’s Baba Yaga and we finally know why she asked Nero for this contract, and things get even more complicated.
I really had a great time again with our heroine. The story she has with Nero is complex and yet, I am still very curious to see how far things will go now. This series is really pleasant to read, with colorful characters and I loved seeing Kit and her eccentricity here as she is more present. Of course, there are also all the other characters as well, even though I’m quite sad by a direction of the story.
In any case, and with that in mind, I look forward to the next novel!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
Roooh I had a hard time not getting into the next book as soon as I finish a volume of the Sasha Urban series! Besides, I succumbed and I’ve already ordered Volume 5! I see that it will soon no longer be possible to do this and I must admit that I am already sad about it. But in the meantime, I continue with great pleasure!
Sasha is back at work and Nero is again her mentor. The latter is determined to protect her as much as he can and it all starts with teaching her to fight! And it’s not that easy. But here’s the thing: on top of that, Sasha will try to understand her growing powers and what she can do with them. And it must be said that she will discover things she didn’t expect. And then there’s Baba Yaga and we finally know why she asked Nero for this contract, and things get even more complicated.
I really had a great time again with our heroine. The story she has with Nero is complex and yet, I am still very curious to see how far things will go now. This series is really pleasant to read, with colorful characters and I loved seeing Kit and her eccentricity here as she is more present. Of course, there are also all the other characters as well, even though I’m quite sad by a direction of the story.
In any case, and with that in mind, I look forward to the next novel!
August 2, 2024
In the fourth book of the Sasha Urban Series, our FMC has made a deal with her boss/mentor. As if her trying to go her own way was ever going to last. Especially with the friction between them? Hot! As danger creeps around every single corner, Sasha has to really learn a lot on the fly, all the while looking for answers. The books really seem to merge into each other now, it's hard to remember where one book starts and where it ends.
February 21, 2019
I'm done. I thought that at 20%, 30%, 40% etc. I cannot believe I actually finished the book. I'm not much for writing reviews, but this book actively annoyed me.
There has been no growth in the story or the characters. The authors doubled down of the format for the 3rd book for this 4th book. All the stuff that didn't work in the 3rd book was that everything and the kitchen sink was thrown at the character and not enough character development or relationship development. For the 4th book, everything under-the-sink was thrown at the character as a vignette to messing with the protagonist in each chapter.
** spoiler lite **
So just crazy thrown at the protagonist every chapter. While the negative reactions of the protagonist may seem valid, the fact that they didn't solve anything and just kept getting more crazy thrown at her made me dislike Sasha more and more at every turn. She never would stop and ask if how she is proceeding is getting her what she wanted or needed, such as an explanation as to why she was a secret, how to use her abilities, and why everyone seems to want her dead. Nope she just kept chugging along letting the bad happen to her. No one would explain anything, but they'd want her, and she would, explain all to them. Which made her enter the TSTL category, in that her father and Nero did everything to protect her and keep her a secret, but then she'll blab to anyone. There seems to be a huge disconnect there.
This so-called seer doesn't see much. And when she does, she runs off all willy-nilly into trouble without a plan, because plans take away from 'girl always in trouble' element of the plot. There is no trust building between anyone and then suddenly we, the readers, have to suddenly trust the creepy shapeshifter who keeps messing with everyone's relationships for their own amusements/selfish needs and is now on team Sasha. The non-seer mentor/love interest, Nero, is only there to blame, make caveman decisions, and pay for everything. The seer mentor/other love interest, Darian, is useless and says stuff like don't trust the other guy but I can't tell you why.
At first I thought (for the first three books) the issue was that they were still slowly world building, because the Cognizants and their abilities was somewhat interesting. The building of the seer ability seemed interesting at first, but the whole "headspace" world just doesn't do anything but be a shinny-pretty place of uselessness and, oh yeah, shapes.
other things that annoyed me:
Orientation Teacher who is always looking at his watch as though teaching newbies with dangerous powers about the rules, their powers, and the universe at large as though its a waste of everyone's time. He is about as effective as someone saying: in the pantry, there are yummy sugar cookies, some laced with poison, don't eat them, gotta go.
Lame teenage werewolves who want to murder classmates because, hey, what the hell and they have the timeless reason where they dislike of those who are different.
The evil witch from the 3rd book never learned her lesson and is back for more trouble.
Iron Clad Contracts with gaping loopholes.
Ambitious bad guy goals where instead of earning them through hard work and trust or doing the right thing, kill to get their "needs" met right away.
Blah! I've had enough.
There has been no growth in the story or the characters. The authors doubled down of the format for the 3rd book for this 4th book. All the stuff that didn't work in the 3rd book was that everything and the kitchen sink was thrown at the character and not enough character development or relationship development. For the 4th book, everything under-the-sink was thrown at the character as a vignette to messing with the protagonist in each chapter.
** spoiler lite **
So just crazy thrown at the protagonist every chapter. While the negative reactions of the protagonist may seem valid, the fact that they didn't solve anything and just kept getting more crazy thrown at her made me dislike Sasha more and more at every turn. She never would stop and ask if how she is proceeding is getting her what she wanted or needed, such as an explanation as to why she was a secret, how to use her abilities, and why everyone seems to want her dead. Nope she just kept chugging along letting the bad happen to her. No one would explain anything, but they'd want her, and she would, explain all to them. Which made her enter the TSTL category, in that her father and Nero did everything to protect her and keep her a secret, but then she'll blab to anyone. There seems to be a huge disconnect there.
This so-called seer doesn't see much. And when she does, she runs off all willy-nilly into trouble without a plan, because plans take away from 'girl always in trouble' element of the plot. There is no trust building between anyone and then suddenly we, the readers, have to suddenly trust the creepy shapeshifter who keeps messing with everyone's relationships for their own amusements/selfish needs and is now on team Sasha. The non-seer mentor/love interest, Nero, is only there to blame, make caveman decisions, and pay for everything. The seer mentor/other love interest, Darian, is useless and says stuff like don't trust the other guy but I can't tell you why.
At first I thought (for the first three books) the issue was that they were still slowly world building, because the Cognizants and their abilities was somewhat interesting. The building of the seer ability seemed interesting at first, but the whole "headspace" world just doesn't do anything but be a shinny-pretty place of uselessness and, oh yeah, shapes.
other things that annoyed me:
Orientation Teacher who is always looking at his watch as though teaching newbies with dangerous powers about the rules, their powers, and the universe at large as though its a waste of everyone's time. He is about as effective as someone saying: in the pantry, there are yummy sugar cookies, some laced with poison, don't eat them, gotta go.
Lame teenage werewolves who want to murder classmates because, hey, what the hell and they have the timeless reason where they dislike of those who are different.
The evil witch from the 3rd book never learned her lesson and is back for more trouble.
Iron Clad Contracts with gaping loopholes.
Ambitious bad guy goals where instead of earning them through hard work and trust or doing the right thing, kill to get their "needs" met right away.
Blah! I've had enough.
December 12, 2019
Dunno how I'm feeling about this right now. I was hoping for some growth of the relationship between Nero and Sasha, but I couldn't say that I find their future relationship any more plausible now than when I met him in the first book.
It was a busy book yet again, but kind of annoying that Sasha never stops for long enough to think properly about what's happening. And Nero's appearances are more token than super necessary for the actual development arc.
It was a busy book yet again, but kind of annoying that Sasha never stops for long enough to think properly about what's happening. And Nero's appearances are more token than super necessary for the actual development arc.
February 18, 2019
This series really keeps getting better and better. It's now moved itself into the 'interrupt whatever you're listening to' when the next one is released and so far it hasn't disappointed.
Clever, different and fun - I'm loving it 😀
Clever, different and fun - I'm loving it 😀
April 10, 2020
Notes:
The way Sasha is learning to use her powers entertains me. My fav part was getting more about her unknown history. There are two more books and I'm pretty sure that the plot lines will not be tied up by then. But, I could be wrong. =)
The way Sasha is learning to use her powers entertains me. My fav part was getting more about her unknown history. There are two more books and I'm pretty sure that the plot lines will not be tied up by then. But, I could be wrong. =)
April 14, 2020
Recensione in ANTEPRIMA
.
Cassandra Gold - per RFS
.
La vita di Sasha non è mai stata così complicata. Da quando i Conoscenti sono entrati nella sua vita e il suo lontano passato è tornato in un caleidoscopio di nozioni frammentate, Sasha si è trovata trasportata freneticamente in una miriade di situazioni difficili, surreali e sconvolgenti. Dall’attrazione provata per Nero, il suo datore di lavoro e ora suo mentore, alla dipendenza per sangue vampiro della sua migliore amica Ariel, lei si sente ora privata di tutte le sicurezze che rendevano serena la sua esistenza. Le giornate passano così, tra le sessioni di addestramento con il suo mentore e le lezioni all’orientamento, quando una visione molto tragica, sconvolge definitivamente la sua vita.
Saprà la veggente, affrontare un’altra tragica prova, che la porterà a un nuovo stadio della sua evoluzione? Nero cederà alle sue richieste, rivelandole finalmente il mistero legato alla sua nascita? Sempre più avvincenti le avventure della grande Sasha. Intrepida e indomita, affronterà con cipiglio deciso la sua caustica guida, tenendogli testa ogni volta.
Continuo a dire: I love Nero! Un personaggio ben studiato, con charme ed eleganza, attraente e dal passato ricco di storia. La relazione con Sasha, ci tiene sulla corda con il suo altalenare di eventi, costantemente fermi sulla soglia dell’inizio di relazione, quell’emozione forte e trascendente tra l’aspettativa del primo bacio e il primo appuntamento. Sasha rifiuta le sensazioni che prova, negando anche a sé stessa i sentimenti nati per Nero; lui dal canto suo, palesemente reduce di un doloroso passato (l’autrice lascia trasparire quest’immagine di lui sebbene non abbia ancora scoperto le sue carte), sembra quasi timoroso di scottarsi per la passione bruciante che lo lega alla sua pupilla. Ma c’è dell’altro, per lui Sasha ha un gran significato, non prova solo passione per lei, ma anche un profondo affetto, combattuto tra il dovere verso il patto contratto con il padre della ragazza e i suoi sentimenti. Due creature così simili lui e Sasha, ma anche tanto diverse, che ci regaleranno momenti di grande suspense, in un’altalena di inseguimenti, scontri all’ultimo sangue e ritorni da dimensioni impossibili, che colorano in modo singolare, le tante avventure di Dima Zales.
Una storia da non perdere, soprattutto per gli appassionati, ma che terrà comunque incollato al libro anche il neofita del genere, grazie a una scrittura fluida e dinamica e alle scene dinamiche e coinvolgenti, che ci regaleranno attimi di stupore fino all’ultima pagina.
Fenici, pronte per attraversare i portali delle Altre Terre?
.
Cassandra Gold - per RFS
.
La vita di Sasha non è mai stata così complicata. Da quando i Conoscenti sono entrati nella sua vita e il suo lontano passato è tornato in un caleidoscopio di nozioni frammentate, Sasha si è trovata trasportata freneticamente in una miriade di situazioni difficili, surreali e sconvolgenti. Dall’attrazione provata per Nero, il suo datore di lavoro e ora suo mentore, alla dipendenza per sangue vampiro della sua migliore amica Ariel, lei si sente ora privata di tutte le sicurezze che rendevano serena la sua esistenza. Le giornate passano così, tra le sessioni di addestramento con il suo mentore e le lezioni all’orientamento, quando una visione molto tragica, sconvolge definitivamente la sua vita.
Saprà la veggente, affrontare un’altra tragica prova, che la porterà a un nuovo stadio della sua evoluzione? Nero cederà alle sue richieste, rivelandole finalmente il mistero legato alla sua nascita? Sempre più avvincenti le avventure della grande Sasha. Intrepida e indomita, affronterà con cipiglio deciso la sua caustica guida, tenendogli testa ogni volta.
Continuo a dire: I love Nero! Un personaggio ben studiato, con charme ed eleganza, attraente e dal passato ricco di storia. La relazione con Sasha, ci tiene sulla corda con il suo altalenare di eventi, costantemente fermi sulla soglia dell’inizio di relazione, quell’emozione forte e trascendente tra l’aspettativa del primo bacio e il primo appuntamento. Sasha rifiuta le sensazioni che prova, negando anche a sé stessa i sentimenti nati per Nero; lui dal canto suo, palesemente reduce di un doloroso passato (l’autrice lascia trasparire quest’immagine di lui sebbene non abbia ancora scoperto le sue carte), sembra quasi timoroso di scottarsi per la passione bruciante che lo lega alla sua pupilla. Ma c’è dell’altro, per lui Sasha ha un gran significato, non prova solo passione per lei, ma anche un profondo affetto, combattuto tra il dovere verso il patto contratto con il padre della ragazza e i suoi sentimenti. Due creature così simili lui e Sasha, ma anche tanto diverse, che ci regaleranno momenti di grande suspense, in un’altalena di inseguimenti, scontri all’ultimo sangue e ritorni da dimensioni impossibili, che colorano in modo singolare, le tante avventure di Dima Zales.
Una storia da non perdere, soprattutto per gli appassionati, ma che terrà comunque incollato al libro anche il neofita del genere, grazie a una scrittura fluida e dinamica e alle scene dinamiche e coinvolgenti, che ci regaleranno attimi di stupore fino all’ultima pagina.
Fenici, pronte per attraversare i portali delle Altre Terre?
February 12, 2019
Sleight of Fantasy (SoF) is non-stop entertainment from beginning to end and I love it. Really, the same thing could be said about the entire series (this is the fourth book). In SoF, Sasha continues to learn more about her powers and as usual, finds herself the center of all kinds of dangerous happenings that have me reading as fast as I can to see what happens next. All of our favorite characters are back for the adventure and the writing flows magically with drama, humor and heart. The slow burn romance continues to torment me oh so deliciously too! These books do a masterful job at telling a full story arc while setting up anticipation for the next one - book five can't come soon enough for me to see what Sasha and her friends get up to next!
March 17, 2024
The good news is that these books are quick and easy to read. The bad news, they are getting worse as the series goes on.
First of all, what the hell kind of eye fetish does this author have? I had previously never heard of limbal rings. This author brings them up every time Nero is in the scene. It's annoying because 99% of readers would never know what it is, let alone know what their fluctuations mean. It's the kind of needless detail that quickly becomes grating.
Next, let's bring up the cheesy romance. Every time Nero is around, Sasha loses her ability to think. These scenes read worse than middle school Penthouse letters. As I said in the last review, Nero is centuries older than Sasha and literally helped to raise her. Gross. Add to that the fact that Nero literally locks her in a cage several times. The book quickly turns into 50 Shades of Daddy Issues.
There is one aspect of the series that I am looking forward to, Rasputin. Sasha's biological father is Rasputin. Everything I've ever read about him was pretty foul. So, how will the author turn that into a loving father? Hopefully, they won't screw it up.
First of all, what the hell kind of eye fetish does this author have? I had previously never heard of limbal rings. This author brings them up every time Nero is in the scene. It's annoying because 99% of readers would never know what it is, let alone know what their fluctuations mean. It's the kind of needless detail that quickly becomes grating.
Next, let's bring up the cheesy romance. Every time Nero is around, Sasha loses her ability to think. These scenes read worse than middle school Penthouse letters. As I said in the last review, Nero is centuries older than Sasha and literally helped to raise her. Gross. Add to that the fact that Nero literally locks her in a cage several times. The book quickly turns into 50 Shades of Daddy Issues.
There is one aspect of the series that I am looking forward to, Rasputin. Sasha's biological father is Rasputin. Everything I've ever read about him was pretty foul. So, how will the author turn that into a loving father? Hopefully, they won't screw it up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2020
3.5 stars
January 1, 2021
This series is really good. The world view is original and interesting. The concept of Otherlands and the gates to reach them is a blend of magic and science fiction. The Russian mythology is original and not much used in other series, so it´s intriguing. The concept of "seeing" as a space full of probabilities is also used in science fiction and as I´m a SF fan, I enjoyed these aspects a lot. Another angle I really, really loved is the magic effects used as an integral part of the plot. My husband´s hobby is a being a close-effects magician, so I loved reading how these magic tricks helped Sasha to overcome the villains. It´s a pity my husband doesn´t read English, as I´m sure he would have loved reading as opposite to just hearing from me! René Lavand is one of his (and mine) favourite cartomancers, so I loved seeing him mentioned in these books. I intend to finish this series and will certainly read other of the author series.
February 28, 2019
My favorite book of the series so far
This is the 4th installment of the Sasha Urban series and so far my favorite, because it really got things cracking. There is lots of action and the overarching story arc is moved forward in several respects. Sasha is finally making strides in finding out more about her parents and there is also movement in her relationship with Nero (spoiler ahead: although it remains unconsummated there are some scenes that suggest that it is only a matter of time till they’ll get there). Sasha is also making progress in learning her power and is getting better and better at inducing visions on demand, especially under pressure, but despite that (or because of that) she is unable to prevent the worst happening to one of her oldest friends, since as soon as she acts on a vision to prevent the outcome she has seen, the future changes. Afterward she is plagued by guilt, which makes her rather reckless, but luckily she has old and new friends at her side to help her. So she manages to save another friend and to get rid of an old enemy in the process. At the same time she also continues (or rather goes back) to work for Nero as a financial forecaster.
Can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.
This is the 4th installment of the Sasha Urban series and so far my favorite, because it really got things cracking. There is lots of action and the overarching story arc is moved forward in several respects. Sasha is finally making strides in finding out more about her parents and there is also movement in her relationship with Nero (spoiler ahead: although it remains unconsummated there are some scenes that suggest that it is only a matter of time till they’ll get there). Sasha is also making progress in learning her power and is getting better and better at inducing visions on demand, especially under pressure, but despite that (or because of that) she is unable to prevent the worst happening to one of her oldest friends, since as soon as she acts on a vision to prevent the outcome she has seen, the future changes. Afterward she is plagued by guilt, which makes her rather reckless, but luckily she has old and new friends at her side to help her. So she manages to save another friend and to get rid of an old enemy in the process. At the same time she also continues (or rather goes back) to work for Nero as a financial forecaster.
Can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.
February 23, 2019
Absolutely satisfied five stars!!! Sasha, you did it again but then, who really doubted you? Definitely not me.
And did I said last time - coyly and humbly - I wanted another two or three books in this series. Well, who am I kidding - I want at least another 7. Or 10. I am not that picky. I'd take anything above 11...
This was just another... but you know what? If you read previous instalments and didn't fall in love, there is nothing I can do to give you better taste in books so for everyone else - this book did not disappoint.
But let me tell you - Kit got so many brownie points from me she could open a bakery! Did not exactly like her that much before but this book made me realize she is just playful and quirky, not malicious so I am, at the moment, liking the hell out of her.
And the amount of Nero in this book... *internal fangirling* Honestly, I think I will need at least five more books after he and Sasha get together. At that may still be a while (which does not bother me in this book at all).
The problem in this book is how much I want the next one (and the ones after that).
And did I said last time - coyly and humbly - I wanted another two or three books in this series. Well, who am I kidding - I want at least another 7. Or 10. I am not that picky. I'd take anything above 11...
This was just another... but you know what? If you read previous instalments and didn't fall in love, there is nothing I can do to give you better taste in books so for everyone else - this book did not disappoint.
But let me tell you - Kit got so many brownie points from me she could open a bakery! Did not exactly like her that much before but this book made me realize she is just playful and quirky, not malicious so I am, at the moment, liking the hell out of her.
And the amount of Nero in this book... *internal fangirling* Honestly, I think I will need at least five more books after he and Sasha get together. At that may still be a while (which does not bother me in this book at all).
The problem in this book is how much I want the next one (and the ones after that).
February 22, 2019
This series just keeps getting better and better. Sasha is doing her thing, learning to use her powers and increasing her knowledge to try and find answers to her questions. Nero, Sasha’s mentor, is beginning to thaw a little towards her but Sasha is still a little leery of his motives and does not really trust him. The best part is her learning to go in and out of headspace and the conversations that are held there. However, even with all the growing that Sasha is doing, it feels like she is not able to catch a break. This is one storyline that will have you hooked. It is not a standalone and I highly recommend reading the previous books.
I volunteered to read a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
I volunteered to read a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
June 6, 2022
I'm only continuing because I bought all 7 books... slow
July 24, 2020
Love the action, but sad at the same time.
I recommend this book to anyone 16 and over As it's not a lot of bad words or blatant sex scenes or anything of the such. What can I say, The action in this book really heats up I'm just sad that it's at the lost of a certain life, and all the crazy blood filled drama that ensues. Sasha has some pretty high ranking friends AND high ranking enemies. Nero is hot and darkly hilarious at the same time and also very serious. I think I figured out what he is based on Sasha's comments about his hand and the little quip that Bailey calls him. I'm glad Ariel is FINALLY getting her stupid act together!!! If only Sasha would! Once again Sasha with her Oh So inquisitive mind and the need to be a little sarcastic smart ass ( plus self-interest as she herself says!!) leads to things spiraling out of control. While trying to flex her "muscles" and prove she has equal control in a situation, she misses out on a prophecy that could have been life saving. Instead of listening to the advice that people give her to try out, she does things her own way that could end up costing someone their lives. It drives me insane and makes me wanna slap her around, And you know it's bad when the Author Themselves makes fun of/alludes to it in the book But continues to have her act in Such an idiotic puffed up manner!! IF Sasha intends to go on this next idiotic journey, and she will because she's sasha, she better damn well learn Russian or have Felix make her an auto in ear translator and beef up her fighting skills!! I can see her being initially mad at her Father for abandoning her, but when you think about who he is and the legacy of his history, even a dummy can realize that He did it for her safety. And when she read The contract it pretty much says that it's for her safety as does the memory she encounters. So when she continues to rant about him abandoning her, I wanna choke her and I definitely wanted to hit her earlier in the book for accusing someone else of abandoning her, although their departure is through Monday it of their own (yet she doesn't accuse Ariel!)
Sadly I was right about my guess about one of the characters in the last book but am Very happy at the 'rewards' they got!!
Now that my rant is over, I fully intend to go read the next part of the series because I definitely want to see how this ends. Hopefully the dirty person in this book who worked with a person in the previous book doesn't make the previous person dirty as well!!
I recommend this book to anyone 16 and over As it's not a lot of bad words or blatant sex scenes or anything of the such. What can I say, The action in this book really heats up I'm just sad that it's at the lost of a certain life, and all the crazy blood filled drama that ensues. Sasha has some pretty high ranking friends AND high ranking enemies. Nero is hot and darkly hilarious at the same time and also very serious. I think I figured out what he is based on Sasha's comments about his hand and the little quip that Bailey calls him. I'm glad Ariel is FINALLY getting her stupid act together!!! If only Sasha would! Once again Sasha with her Oh So inquisitive mind and the need to be a little sarcastic smart ass ( plus self-interest as she herself says!!) leads to things spiraling out of control. While trying to flex her "muscles" and prove she has equal control in a situation, she misses out on a prophecy that could have been life saving. Instead of listening to the advice that people give her to try out, she does things her own way that could end up costing someone their lives. It drives me insane and makes me wanna slap her around, And you know it's bad when the Author Themselves makes fun of/alludes to it in the book But continues to have her act in Such an idiotic puffed up manner!! IF Sasha intends to go on this next idiotic journey, and she will because she's sasha, she better damn well learn Russian or have Felix make her an auto in ear translator and beef up her fighting skills!! I can see her being initially mad at her Father for abandoning her, but when you think about who he is and the legacy of his history, even a dummy can realize that He did it for her safety. And when she read The contract it pretty much says that it's for her safety as does the memory she encounters. So when she continues to rant about him abandoning her, I wanna choke her and I definitely wanted to hit her earlier in the book for accusing someone else of abandoning her, although their departure is through Monday it of their own (yet she doesn't accuse Ariel!)
Sadly I was right about my guess about one of the characters in the last book but am Very happy at the 'rewards' they got!!
Now that my rant is over, I fully intend to go read the next part of the series because I definitely want to see how this ends. Hopefully the dirty person in this book who worked with a person in the previous book doesn't make the previous person dirty as well!!
January 10, 2020
THE WHOLE SERIES IS FREE WITH AUDIBLE ESCAPE!!!
By Dima Zales and Anne Zaires
Narrated by Emily Durante
Starts next day from book 3
First off, Sasha tells another person her whole life story and every detail of previous books. When is she gonna learn that information is valuable and she gives it away to those who could betray he? It's a ver annoying and dumb character trait 😒.
What is it with all these authors feeling they have to make their lead females so dumb? As with the other books, Sasha makes more dumb decisions and someone ens up paying the ultimate price 😥.
There is quite a bit of action that happens both in her visions and in real time. This is a big plus because listening to her inner dialogue go on & on can be a turn off.
Sasha probably uses her powers in the best way in this book but continues the antics of going off alone. Of course she makes it out of situations because of those around her more than her own actions. But she does actually "help" in this one.
Finally a spark of actual romance in this one. Oh course if you've read until this point you are aware of the options available to Sasha. My opinion only but I think this is the book she makes her decision. By the way she reacts, I think we have a winner!!!
By Dima Zales and Anne Zaires
Narrated by Emily Durante
Starts next day from book 3
First off, Sasha tells another person her whole life story and every detail of previous books. When is she gonna learn that information is valuable and she gives it away to those who could betray he? It's a ver annoying and dumb character trait 😒.
What is it with all these authors feeling they have to make their lead females so dumb? As with the other books, Sasha makes more dumb decisions and someone ens up paying the ultimate price 😥.
There is quite a bit of action that happens both in her visions and in real time. This is a big plus because listening to her inner dialogue go on & on can be a turn off.
Sasha probably uses her powers in the best way in this book but continues the antics of going off alone. Of course she makes it out of situations because of those around her more than her own actions. But she does actually "help" in this one.
Finally a spark of actual romance in this one. Oh course if you've read until this point you are aware of the options available to Sasha. My opinion only but I think this is the book she makes her decision. By the way she reacts, I think we have a winner!!!
February 7, 2021
Sasha Urban #4. At the end of book 3 Sasha grudgingly agreed to let Nero be her mentor again and go back to work for him at the investment firm. The first quarter of the book she is forced to work in a sort of solitary confinement. She uses that time to hone her skill as a seer, which she immediately uses when Nero continues his mentoring. Sasha is continually running into danger, Nero decide she needs martial arts instruction.
The shit starts hitting the fan when she tries to visit Ariel in rehab. Ariel is gone and Gaius had been there. They meet Kit there and she tags along with Sasha and Felix. We know that Baba Yaga is bad news and Nero can't help because of the agreement at the end of book 3, so it's Sasha, Felix and Kit that have to do the heavy lifting with Vlad being a loose cannon.
Fast fun read. If you liked the first three books, you'll like this one. Sasha learns more about her powers. The last book revealed the identity of her father. We get more tidbits. Nice integration of Sasha's visions with the events of the story. Five stars for the enjoyment factor.
The shit starts hitting the fan when she tries to visit Ariel in rehab. Ariel is gone and Gaius had been there. They meet Kit there and she tags along with Sasha and Felix. We know that Baba Yaga is bad news and Nero can't help because of the agreement at the end of book 3, so it's Sasha, Felix and Kit that have to do the heavy lifting with Vlad being a loose cannon.
Fast fun read. If you liked the first three books, you'll like this one. Sasha learns more about her powers. The last book revealed the identity of her father. We get more tidbits. Nice integration of Sasha's visions with the events of the story. Five stars for the enjoyment factor.
February 16, 2019
Continues to be a fun series.
This is a fun fantasy series. I am normally not a big sci-fi person but I love me some supernatural mystery/romance. And this book series has it all, seers, vampires, and whatever the heck Nero is (still trying to figure that one out). Sasha can’t ever seem to catch a break, but I love learning about this crazy new world right along with her. This book was great because we finally get some hints about her past and some more great scenes with Nero. There was some sadness in this story too, but some bad guys finally got what was coming to them. So my favorite thing in this series is frugal Fluffster. I love him and how is is always worrying about paying the bills! My only annoyance is how Nero’s Limbal rings in his eyes are constantly being described. I think we may need a new way to show that Nero is interested or aroused.
This is a fun fantasy series. I am normally not a big sci-fi person but I love me some supernatural mystery/romance. And this book series has it all, seers, vampires, and whatever the heck Nero is (still trying to figure that one out). Sasha can’t ever seem to catch a break, but I love learning about this crazy new world right along with her. This book was great because we finally get some hints about her past and some more great scenes with Nero. There was some sadness in this story too, but some bad guys finally got what was coming to them. So my favorite thing in this series is frugal Fluffster. I love him and how is is always worrying about paying the bills! My only annoyance is how Nero’s Limbal rings in his eyes are constantly being described. I think we may need a new way to show that Nero is interested or aroused.
February 12, 2019
Really??
So the concept of this series is good there is a twist to the paranormal world, but I am getting tired of the same plot on every book. Heroin is stubborn goes in knowing she doesn't stand a chance but she needs to do something so she does she by miracle makes it almost dies in the process and hero is there to help bring her back to health... Common we get it but at this point in the series I expect her to grow more and be more mature she acts like a 14 year old always wining poor me... And the love interest don't get me started she is hot and cold and honestly is exhausting. I'll probably read the rest only cause I made it this far but I know the author can do better than this.
So the concept of this series is good there is a twist to the paranormal world, but I am getting tired of the same plot on every book. Heroin is stubborn goes in knowing she doesn't stand a chance but she needs to do something so she does she by miracle makes it almost dies in the process and hero is there to help bring her back to health... Common we get it but at this point in the series I expect her to grow more and be more mature she acts like a 14 year old always wining poor me... And the love interest don't get me started she is hot and cold and honestly is exhausting. I'll probably read the rest only cause I made it this far but I know the author can do better than this.
May 22, 2019
Sasha sollte eigentlich nichts mehr passieren, genauso wie ihren Liebsten. Doch jemand will den Deal brechen und Grenzen werden überschritten.
Jedes Band ist spannender als das letzte, man weiß nie was auf einen zu kommt. Sasha entwickelt sich weiter, sie wächst an ihren Erlebnissen, aber auch ihre Kräfte werden immer stärker und sie lernt sie mehr unter Kontrolle zu halten. Man taucht immer weiter in die Welt von Sasha ein und fragt sich was noch alles auf einen zukommt. Taschentücher werden auf jeden Fall in diesem Band gebraucht und ich musste ab und zu eine kleine Pause einlegen um mich etwas zu beruhigen. Natürlich lernt man so manche Charaktere besser kennen. Ich kann es nicht erwarten endlich weiterzulesen.
Jedes Band ist spannender als das letzte, man weiß nie was auf einen zu kommt. Sasha entwickelt sich weiter, sie wächst an ihren Erlebnissen, aber auch ihre Kräfte werden immer stärker und sie lernt sie mehr unter Kontrolle zu halten. Man taucht immer weiter in die Welt von Sasha ein und fragt sich was noch alles auf einen zukommt. Taschentücher werden auf jeden Fall in diesem Band gebraucht und ich musste ab und zu eine kleine Pause einlegen um mich etwas zu beruhigen. Natürlich lernt man so manche Charaktere besser kennen. Ich kann es nicht erwarten endlich weiterzulesen.
February 5, 2019
Sasha's powers are growing and she's learning how to control them. Nero has made a deal to protect her, but when an unknown enemy strikes,the people she loves are under threat! She needs to protect her friends and use her powers to thwart her enemies. Sasha's evolvement to an independent young woman is admirable! She begins to come to terms with her powers and uses them to protect the people she loves. Her attraction to her boss and mentor, Nero, is growing but she senses that he's dangerous and feels that she can't trust him. She remains loyal to her friends and is willing to sacrifice her own safety for their sake. I can't wait for her next adventure!
February 26, 2019
I received an advanced copy for my honest review.
3.8 stars
A lot is going on in this book and it feels longer than the one before. Sasha is learning so much about her powers, but I still feel a little lost when it comes to Cognizants and how their world works. I love how Dima combines scifi and fantasy, but I don't always love the lack of explaining things (or the explanations not feeling cohesive).
Nero uses his deal with Sasha to place a lot of restrictions on her, but he also shows a more caring side in the process. His rules also save her life. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next. Beware, your heart will hurt reading this one.
3.8 stars
A lot is going on in this book and it feels longer than the one before. Sasha is learning so much about her powers, but I still feel a little lost when it comes to Cognizants and how their world works. I love how Dima combines scifi and fantasy, but I don't always love the lack of explaining things (or the explanations not feeling cohesive).
Nero uses his deal with Sasha to place a lot of restrictions on her, but he also shows a more caring side in the process. His rules also save her life. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next. Beware, your heart will hurt reading this one.
November 10, 2021
♥️💜😰 A BRILLIANT SUITE !
The doorbell twists her eardrums.
She feels like she’s only slept a few moments.
Sasha mumbles and hears her animal Fluffster responds in her head...
She ends up going to open the door and find Rose, the adorable grandmother next door...
--------‐----
FINALLY, the long awaited sequel to the incredible adventures of young Sasha !
Here is a very endearing young main character facing an extraordinary destiny.
It’s very well written, easy to read, the plot is mysterious and full of action.
This volume 4 is a successful as the first three.
I look forward to the rest !
A fantastic Fantasy/youth series to discover. 💜
The doorbell twists her eardrums.
She feels like she’s only slept a few moments.
Sasha mumbles and hears her animal Fluffster responds in her head...
She ends up going to open the door and find Rose, the adorable grandmother next door...
--------‐----
FINALLY, the long awaited sequel to the incredible adventures of young Sasha !
Here is a very endearing young main character facing an extraordinary destiny.
It’s very well written, easy to read, the plot is mysterious and full of action.
This volume 4 is a successful as the first three.
I look forward to the rest !
A fantastic Fantasy/youth series to discover. 💜
September 8, 2020
Sasha’s is a trouble magnet
As Sasha’s life continues to be a tangle of trouble, she learns more about who her father is. The constant threats to her life are wearing her thin. Nero’s plans of her work day grate Sasha but she is actually getting much better going into headspace. Visions of a funeral really jar Sasha into action. She has so many people who it would hurt her to lose. Can she figure out this mystery in time? How can she stop Baba Yaga and her admiral? Will she be able to find and save Ariel?
As Sasha’s life continues to be a tangle of trouble, she learns more about who her father is. The constant threats to her life are wearing her thin. Nero’s plans of her work day grate Sasha but she is actually getting much better going into headspace. Visions of a funeral really jar Sasha into action. She has so many people who it would hurt her to lose. Can she figure out this mystery in time? How can she stop Baba Yaga and her admiral? Will she be able to find and save Ariel?
December 2, 2022
This book took a very long time to establish a plot. I felt like it was almost done before it just stopped being rambling things happening.
The story is good because I'm already invested in the characters but I would hate to be the reader that mistook this for the first book in the series.
The book cleared up the extra characters at the end very well, so we know who we are likely to see and who is not going to play a part going forward.
I think Nero is too powerful by far.
Still love Fluffster.
The next book will get right to the plot, so I'm looking forward to that.
The story is good because I'm already invested in the characters but I would hate to be the reader that mistook this for the first book in the series.
The book cleared up the extra characters at the end very well, so we know who we are likely to see and who is not going to play a part going forward.
I think Nero is too powerful by far.
Still love Fluffster.
The next book will get right to the plot, so I'm looking forward to that.
February 15, 2019
This book is a great continuation of the series. The pacing is good as always. There was a sad death too, be warned. There were also some nice twists. Some storylines are wrapped up and questions answered, but it also leaves you asking more questions (in a good way). I definitely want to know what happens next. For fans of Kit, she plays a bigger part in this story. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, gifted to me by the author, with no obligation.
June 15, 2019
I can't get enough of this series, and for me that I barely do long series, is just crazy to have found another series that captive my attention and leave me wanting more.
A fabulous series with an amazing plot, intense, entertaining, intriguing, action-packed, a wonderful world-built, and characters that are very compelling, fun and great to read about! This is a series, you need to experience yourself.
Can't wait to read book 5!!
A fabulous series with an amazing plot, intense, entertaining, intriguing, action-packed, a wonderful world-built, and characters that are very compelling, fun and great to read about! This is a series, you need to experience yourself.
Can't wait to read book 5!!
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