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Haunted Souls #1
Ghost of Himself
When a reclusive psychic shows up looking for Jude Byrne in his adopted hometown of Salem, Massachusetts, the private investigator’s walls go up instantly. Psychic or not, this mysterious man knows secrets about Jude’s past that are better left buried in the New Mexico desert. Stranger still is the personality change that comes over the flirty P.I. after he meets the newcomer.
Psychic Copeland Forbes is a man on the edge. The once popular and well-respected medium has lived in seclusion since an attack by a former student has shaken his confidence in his abilities. Sickened by an ailment no doctor can diagnose, he travels from his home in Louisiana to seek out the one man he believes he can help him, if the rumors are true.
Faced with an enemy possessing powers greater than either man has ever faced alone, will Jude and Copeland decide to work together to defeat this dark magick? Or will both men continue on as they are now, ghosts of themselves?
Psychic Copeland Forbes is a man on the edge. The once popular and well-respected medium has lived in seclusion since an attack by a former student has shaken his confidence in his abilities. Sickened by an ailment no doctor can diagnose, he travels from his home in Louisiana to seek out the one man he believes he can help him, if the rumors are true.
Faced with an enemy possessing powers greater than either man has ever faced alone, will Jude and Copeland decide to work together to defeat this dark magick? Or will both men continue on as they are now, ghosts of themselves?
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 8, 2019
355 people are currently reading
609 people want to read
About the author
Pandora Pine
136 books607 followersSick of the slogging rat-race of her 9-5 job, Pandora Pine put pen to paper (literally!) to make her ambition of becoming a romance novelist a reality. She cut her teeth in the dog-eat-dog world of fanfiction, still dreaming of the day when she would be a published author. She lives in Massachusetts with her blabbermouth muse who’ s a fan of middle of the night plot twists.
In her spare time, Pandora fancies herself an amateur nature photographer. She enjoys mucking around in swamps, hiking through the woods and crawling around on her hands and knees in her backyard seeking out the perfect shot. Pandora is a fan of roadside seafood shacks and always thinks Mexican food is a good idea at the time.
Some of Pandora’s favorite things are chocolate, writing longhand with purple pens and handsome men falling in love with each other.
Don't miss Pandora’s seductive new novel coming soon to an e-reader near you.
In her spare time, Pandora fancies herself an amateur nature photographer. She enjoys mucking around in swamps, hiking through the woods and crawling around on her hands and knees in her backyard seeking out the perfect shot. Pandora is a fan of roadside seafood shacks and always thinks Mexican food is a good idea at the time.
Some of Pandora’s favorite things are chocolate, writing longhand with purple pens and handsome men falling in love with each other.
Don't miss Pandora’s seductive new novel coming soon to an e-reader near you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
June 5, 2019
4.5 stars for the Audiobook
3 stars for the story
Well! That was that. Stumbled upon this and decided to listen to it because it was Michael Pauley.
I guess i should have read the previous series first, there were too many characters and now i know this is a spinoff of another series.
The story was just ok, repetitive at times.
The vodoo stuff was just ok too, nothing special.
The characters were likable enough, i don't know if i am going to continue with the series, maybe, maybe not.
3 stars for the story
Well! That was that. Stumbled upon this and decided to listen to it because it was Michael Pauley.
I guess i should have read the previous series first, there were too many characters and now i know this is a spinoff of another series.
The story was just ok, repetitive at times.
The vodoo stuff was just ok too, nothing special.
The characters were likable enough, i don't know if i am going to continue with the series, maybe, maybe not.
January 11, 2019
2.0 stars
I think my problem is I cannot read the author's style of writing. I have almost the same problems I had with the first book of the original series. I really don't like this love-fest with all the other characters appearing and after a point I started skipping them. So probably these spin-offs are for the ones who like the first series a lot. The antagonist came out of nowhere and his reasoning is silly (?). But that could be just me.
I like the magic/witching part, I could even tolerate Cope. Certainly liked Jude better but he sounds and acts similar to Ronan (especially in shouting.screaming). Tenn and Cope are this all-knowing, perfect, loved-by-everyone paragons and I didn't like that about both.
If the author could just remove the romance aspect and tone down this paragon behavior, I would happily read all the books in the series and all the spin-offs.
I think my problem is I cannot read the author's style of writing. I have almost the same problems I had with the first book of the original series. I really don't like this love-fest with all the other characters appearing and after a point I started skipping them. So probably these spin-offs are for the ones who like the first series a lot. The antagonist came out of nowhere and his reasoning is silly (?). But that could be just me.
I like the magic/witching part, I could even tolerate Cope. Certainly liked Jude better but he sounds and acts similar to Ronan (especially in shouting.screaming). Tenn and Cope are this all-knowing, perfect, loved-by-everyone paragons and I didn't like that about both.
If the author could just remove the romance aspect and tone down this paragon behavior, I would happily read all the books in the series and all the spin-offs.
April 16, 2019
I didn't like it for the following reasons:
- Too many characters from the author's previous books. I didn't read them and I don't plan to so it was unnerving to read about couples I don't know and don't care about, especially when most of them didn't do anything important to resolve the plot.
- Redundant narrative. Characters kept explaining things again and again: for example A tells B about his childhood trauma, then B goes to see C and tells him A's childhood story. Then some pages later A tells B his story again...Then when D comes into the story, they all explain to him what happened since page 1...
Overall I don't like the author's writing style.
- Too many characters from the author's previous books. I didn't read them and I don't plan to so it was unnerving to read about couples I don't know and don't care about, especially when most of them didn't do anything important to resolve the plot.
- Redundant narrative. Characters kept explaining things again and again: for example A tells B about his childhood trauma, then B goes to see C and tells him A's childhood story. Then some pages later A tells B his story again...Then when D comes into the story, they all explain to him what happened since page 1...
Overall I don't like the author's writing style.
May 13, 2019
Audiobook reviewStory: 👻 👻 👻 ½
Narration: 👻 👻 👻 👻 👻
I love this world, you know I do. I’ve gobbled each and every single book in this series, or rather the main series as Ghost of Himself is the first book in a second spin-off series from Cold Case Psychic. Getting confused? You’re not the only one. I’m starting to really feel the need of some kind of roadmap to keep track of it all. I’m not saying that it’s bad, just that at times it gets confusing.
Anyway, we first met Jude in Dead Ringer and I fell for this surly man - hard. I wished that he would get his own story. And here we are, a few months later and my wish is granted and I was in my happy place; where ghosts and psychics are real, and they fight together for justice for those who can’t get it for themselves. Or rather this time they fight to stay alive, to keep Copeland alive.
And who is Copeland you might wonder? Well, he is a talented and respected medium and teacher of magic in Louisiana and when he’s attacked, and barely survives the attack by his ex-boyfriend he goes into hiding. That works for a while, until his life is once again threatened and he follows the advice of a spirit (guess who?) telling him to go to Salem and find Jude. That Jude would be the one that could save him.
Can I just give Michael Pauley a gold star for his narration and move on? No? Well okay then. I don’t have the faintest idea of how many books I’ve listened to by Pauley. Safe to say they are many. He’s possibly the narrator I’ve listened to the most. I love his voice, it’s so pleasant to listen to. Wonderfully soothing, but engaging at the same time. I love how he acts out the book and not only reading the words, it makes the story and characters come to life. Makes you live the book, fight the evils and hug Bertha. Pauley makes you feel it all, every single wonderful second.
However, not even his amazing talents could wow me with this book as the previous books have. It felt a bit disjointed and at times out of focus. Another issue I had was the myriad of side characters that were popping in and out and mostly for the sake of them being mentioned and not having any greater purpose to the book. Like stated before, I love this universe and characters and have listened to seven books set prior to this one in this universe, and I was still confused. When a new character entered the scene I went something like this “Who’s this guy again?” …. “Oh, right he was …..” but by the time I figured out how they were connected I’d missed a part of the story. Not long after that, a new character joined the mix and it started all over again, and again.
As far as the mystery goes, it was loose at best. I mean the “regular” mysteries aren’t all that plausible, but they have a story that makes sense. And more importantly – keep you entertained. This one didn’t. It was a few events that didn’t really connect, that were forced to connect. But the worst part was probably the conclusion to it all. Underwhelming doesn’t quite cover it.
So while I can’t say that I loved this story I can’t say that I disliked it either. Because I still love Jude, Tenn and Ronan and all the crazy people they’ve adopted throughout. And I wanted to know Jude better. It also looks like Jude and Cope has more to say, and I will happily listen to anything they have to share.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
February 18, 2020
4,5 Stars.
This was a great story where I loved the MCs, the secondary characters and the story.
Now I have to wait a bit for the next book, which is a shame ... but that gives me the opportunity to read some Ronan and Ten stories
That is a bit of a drag in this book ... if you haven't read the cold cases series, this series is definitely difficult as there are a lot of secondary characters from the other books.
For me it was great and a reason to start again with the other series
This was a great story where I loved the MCs, the secondary characters and the story.
Now I have to wait a bit for the next book, which is a shame ... but that gives me the opportunity to read some Ronan and Ten stories
That is a bit of a drag in this book ... if you haven't read the cold cases series, this series is definitely difficult as there are a lot of secondary characters from the other books.
For me it was great and a reason to start again with the other series
December 15, 2018
♥.•🌟¨)☆♡¸.•🌟´¨)☆♡¸.•♥🌟´¨)☆♡♥
♡🌟(¸.•♥´🌟I am calling Pandora Pine, the Queen of spin offs.
Since the moment he had been introduced to the world in Cold Case Psychics book 6, Dead Ringer, Jude has been on my radar, vying for number one in my heart. He was itching to push Ronan out...and fast. Today, he almost succeeded. I love seeing characters grow. I like watching them go from one extreme to the next; the shock value, awesome.
Everyone who has indulged in these books know Jude to be the man-whore of the century. Never repeating hook ups, always on the look out for another joyride. But the more he hung out with the West Side Magick crew, he grew a little more, becoming the man he was meant to to. This story was meant to reintroduce Jude, make him more human in the readers eyes, more vulnerable. It also showed a side of him that I think the readers were waiting for. Yes, we knew Jude was powerful, but how powerful, wow!
I have never also been more lucky for Pandora's alternate character voice-over. We the reader got into newcomer Copeland's head and was able to walk his journey through thick and thin. We were able to feel his joys and his pain. And we were able to see things through his eyes in the moment. From the moment he fell on Ten's and Ro's steps to the moment he opened his eyes, Cope had been in Jude's focus. The psychic had had to abandon everything he knew in order to survive. Now he needed not only Jude, but the entire team, to save his life and draw out the one person intent on destroying him.
As one, they were making a difference in the world. Together, Jude and Copeland were dynamite! The chemistry between them was awesome, but they allowed the fires to burn slowly. I am glad for this, as both men need time to come to the realization that healing comes with trust.
So many laughs, so many goodies and so many surprises adorn this book. And as always, one or two new characters pops up and adds more awesomeness to the series. Trust me, you will like this one!! I think I am as excited as the author to birth this book into the world. Great start to a new series.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
♡🌟(¸.•♥´🌟I am calling Pandora Pine, the Queen of spin offs.
Since the moment he had been introduced to the world in Cold Case Psychics book 6, Dead Ringer, Jude has been on my radar, vying for number one in my heart. He was itching to push Ronan out...and fast. Today, he almost succeeded. I love seeing characters grow. I like watching them go from one extreme to the next; the shock value, awesome.
Everyone who has indulged in these books know Jude to be the man-whore of the century. Never repeating hook ups, always on the look out for another joyride. But the more he hung out with the West Side Magick crew, he grew a little more, becoming the man he was meant to to. This story was meant to reintroduce Jude, make him more human in the readers eyes, more vulnerable. It also showed a side of him that I think the readers were waiting for. Yes, we knew Jude was powerful, but how powerful, wow!
I have never also been more lucky for Pandora's alternate character voice-over. We the reader got into newcomer Copeland's head and was able to walk his journey through thick and thin. We were able to feel his joys and his pain. And we were able to see things through his eyes in the moment. From the moment he fell on Ten's and Ro's steps to the moment he opened his eyes, Cope had been in Jude's focus. The psychic had had to abandon everything he knew in order to survive. Now he needed not only Jude, but the entire team, to save his life and draw out the one person intent on destroying him.
As one, they were making a difference in the world. Together, Jude and Copeland were dynamite! The chemistry between them was awesome, but they allowed the fires to burn slowly. I am glad for this, as both men need time to come to the realization that healing comes with trust.
So many laughs, so many goodies and so many surprises adorn this book. And as always, one or two new characters pops up and adds more awesomeness to the series. Trust me, you will like this one!! I think I am as excited as the author to birth this book into the world. Great start to a new series.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
January 8, 2019
JUUUUDE!!! Ahem... uh.. yeah so I might love this character, just a little. Can you tell? This might be long and half gushing and only half actual review, so sorry in advance LOL.. here goes.
Guys.. I have been freaking DYING for Jude's story since the very first time we met him. He has been an enigma over the course of the Cold Case Psychic series, and with each book in that series since his first appearance, we have gotten a tiny bit more of who Jude is and what his story is. I'm telling you guys, Pandora Pine can write a damn good mystery - whether the mystery is the story or a character, like with Jude. I will say that this story CAN be read as a standalone (and would still be a totally satisfying story!).. but to be honest, I would recommend starting with the Cold Case Psychic series as you will get to know Jude and see how his relationships with Ronan and Ten and the rest have developed.. and even the idea of Cope is first found in that series, even if we don't actually meet him until this one.
Okaaaay.. on to the good stuff right? So we finally get to know Jude and we FINALLY get to learn some of his secrets and what he actually is. EEEEK. So. Much. Excite. Pandora Pine did a wonderful job unraveling some of his story for us in this first book, and man I can't freaking wait to learn more. His bromance with Ronan keeps getting even stronger (and yes, that includes bickering and fighting like siblings), and it makes me so happy you would think they were real and I knew them personally. And kudos to Ms. Pine for the mention of Ronan's David Ortiz shirt... I may be a native Bostonian and I may be a huge Red Sox fan and David Ortiz may be (read: is) my favorite player of all time. Sometimes I think she writes these just for me ;) Anywayyy...
Copeland Forbes! His backstory and that prologue? Whoa. He is a seriously intriguing character, especially with his gifts and his New Orleans background. I love the dynamic between Jude and Cope from the very first moment they each lay eyes on each other. The mystery behind what is happening with Cope had me glued to the story from the very first page to the last. Imagine being psychically attacked over and over and having no idea how to stop it? The story kept me guessing as to who was doing what and was definitely not predictable in any way for this reader (love that). Jude is just as protective and strong as I was hoping he would be, and the romance between the two is a bit light in this first one but sweet and feels inevitable. There is serious chemistry there! I also love how the family they have all formed accepts Cope and bands together to save him, and how Jude is finally feeling like he might belong there with them. I am thrilled with the way the book ended, except for one thing, which.. well, I'm sure you will know when you read it. But not because I am upset with it at all, only because I am apparently super impatient and don't know how I am supposed to wait for the next book. Oh well. And no, that doesn't mean there is a cliffhanger, so no worries there for those of you who can't stand them. Read away :D
I can't wait to see how this new venture goes for Jude and Cope as partners on the job.. and how their relationship changes and develops after how this book ends. I am also excited for the kinds of cases we will see in each book. I can already tell this series will be a bestseller like CCP is, and Pandora, please keep them coming!! If you like magic, psychics, ghosts, Salem, witches, etc.. you do not want to miss this one.
Guys.. I have been freaking DYING for Jude's story since the very first time we met him. He has been an enigma over the course of the Cold Case Psychic series, and with each book in that series since his first appearance, we have gotten a tiny bit more of who Jude is and what his story is. I'm telling you guys, Pandora Pine can write a damn good mystery - whether the mystery is the story or a character, like with Jude. I will say that this story CAN be read as a standalone (and would still be a totally satisfying story!).. but to be honest, I would recommend starting with the Cold Case Psychic series as you will get to know Jude and see how his relationships with Ronan and Ten and the rest have developed.. and even the idea of Cope is first found in that series, even if we don't actually meet him until this one.
Okaaaay.. on to the good stuff right? So we finally get to know Jude and we FINALLY get to learn some of his secrets and what he actually is. EEEEK. So. Much. Excite. Pandora Pine did a wonderful job unraveling some of his story for us in this first book, and man I can't freaking wait to learn more. His bromance with Ronan keeps getting even stronger (and yes, that includes bickering and fighting like siblings), and it makes me so happy you would think they were real and I knew them personally. And kudos to Ms. Pine for the mention of Ronan's David Ortiz shirt... I may be a native Bostonian and I may be a huge Red Sox fan and David Ortiz may be (read: is) my favorite player of all time. Sometimes I think she writes these just for me ;) Anywayyy...
Copeland Forbes! His backstory and that prologue? Whoa. He is a seriously intriguing character, especially with his gifts and his New Orleans background. I love the dynamic between Jude and Cope from the very first moment they each lay eyes on each other. The mystery behind what is happening with Cope had me glued to the story from the very first page to the last. Imagine being psychically attacked over and over and having no idea how to stop it? The story kept me guessing as to who was doing what and was definitely not predictable in any way for this reader (love that). Jude is just as protective and strong as I was hoping he would be, and the romance between the two is a bit light in this first one but sweet and feels inevitable. There is serious chemistry there! I also love how the family they have all formed accepts Cope and bands together to save him, and how Jude is finally feeling like he might belong there with them. I am thrilled with the way the book ended, except for one thing, which.. well, I'm sure you will know when you read it. But not because I am upset with it at all, only because I am apparently super impatient and don't know how I am supposed to wait for the next book. Oh well. And no, that doesn't mean there is a cliffhanger, so no worries there for those of you who can't stand them. Read away :D
I can't wait to see how this new venture goes for Jude and Cope as partners on the job.. and how their relationship changes and develops after how this book ends. I am also excited for the kinds of cases we will see in each book. I can already tell this series will be a bestseller like CCP is, and Pandora, please keep them coming!! If you like magic, psychics, ghosts, Salem, witches, etc.. you do not want to miss this one.
July 18, 2022
I really enjoyed the mystery, the suspense and getting to know Jude and Copeland. But for some reason the big reveal at the end, felt a bit anticlimactic. It was good, but maybe I was expecting more. Overall, I think it’s a great start of a new investigation series on hauntings.
January 9, 2019
Yes! Jude's book is finally here and what a fantastic start to a new series. Fans of the Cold Case Psychic series should love this book, it includes all of our favourite characters and introduces some new ones for us to get to know. I'd recommend starting with that series as there are quite a few characters to get to know but it's not essential.
In this book we follow Jude and new man, Copeland Forbes, who has travelled to Salem from New Orleans specifically for Jude's help. Between the two of them and everyone at West Side Majick, they set to work on finding who is out for Cope and hurting him. Jude's character has come so far since first meeting him and it's great finally getting to read from him POV. The interactions between the MC's are interesting to read as there's not necessarily the hot burning attraction but definitely something there between them that I hope evolves in the next books in the series.
The premise of Haunted Souls is intriguing and I'm excited to read what direction Pandora takes the men in and what situations they find themselves in. This book is a great start to a series, slowly allowing us to grow a connection with the MC's and build up an interest in the goings on of them and then plot of the story. I was engaged throughout trying to work out who the bad guy was and anticipating the outcome of situations. I'd love to read more on Jude's Navajo background and to explore more of Cope's witch side.
I definitely recommend this book and am looking forward to book two. I'd suggest reading the Cold Case Psychic series first as a lot of characters from there are included and it's a slower introduction to everyone :-)
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review
In this book we follow Jude and new man, Copeland Forbes, who has travelled to Salem from New Orleans specifically for Jude's help. Between the two of them and everyone at West Side Majick, they set to work on finding who is out for Cope and hurting him. Jude's character has come so far since first meeting him and it's great finally getting to read from him POV. The interactions between the MC's are interesting to read as there's not necessarily the hot burning attraction but definitely something there between them that I hope evolves in the next books in the series.
The premise of Haunted Souls is intriguing and I'm excited to read what direction Pandora takes the men in and what situations they find themselves in. This book is a great start to a series, slowly allowing us to grow a connection with the MC's and build up an interest in the goings on of them and then plot of the story. I was engaged throughout trying to work out who the bad guy was and anticipating the outcome of situations. I'd love to read more on Jude's Navajo background and to explore more of Cope's witch side.
I definitely recommend this book and am looking forward to book two. I'd suggest reading the Cold Case Psychic series first as a lot of characters from there are included and it's a slower introduction to everyone :-)
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review
December 26, 2018
I’ve been anxiously waiting on Jude’s story. I was thrilled when Pandora Pine said he would have his own series. This book did not disappoint. Though this is definitely a slow burn romance I’m really glad it’s being written this way. I love Jude in all his snark and secretive glory but he really shines in this new series. We get to see a character with depth and many layers that have only scratched the surface. I can’t wait to see what we will learn about Jude next. As for Cope, he seems to be a good counter balance to Jude though more books will be needed so that I get to know him better. This is a great start to the new series and I think that I will connect with both these characters much like I have the other characters in the Cold Case Psychic series. Congratulations to Pandora Pine on another excellent book.
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March 20, 2022Though this book could be read on its own, I personally think that reading the Cold Case Psychic series would probably help in having a better context and understanding of the characters that are involved in this first story from this new series.
I enjoyed the story enough but I certainly didn't like a few things about this book. It's good in small does like a TV series episode of a supernatural show with the villain of the episode wreaking havoc in the lives of the protagonists.
I liked Cope enough as a character but he did feel underdeveloped in this book. Jude on the other hand really grated on my nerves especially in his shouting and screaming moments. His character is almost unlikeable for me. He overreacts over the simplest situations and things not going his way which can be resolved by calmly and rationally talking it out with the other characters but no. He'd be all huffy, growly and be Neanderthal-like over them. It's cute the first few times but then it overstayed its welcome.
Finding out who was behind the attacks and how the overall problem was resolved was a bit of a letdown. I was expecting something else actually and that wasn't it exactly what I had in mind. The lovefest between the characters is a bit much and borders on irritating at times. They can be like your nosy neighbors who you'd prefer to mind their own business.
Overall this book was an alright read. 3.0 stars out of 5 stars for me.
I enjoyed the story enough but I certainly didn't like a few things about this book. It's good in small does like a TV series episode of a supernatural show with the villain of the episode wreaking havoc in the lives of the protagonists.
I liked Cope enough as a character but he did feel underdeveloped in this book. Jude on the other hand really grated on my nerves especially in his shouting and screaming moments. His character is almost unlikeable for me. He overreacts over the simplest situations and things not going his way which can be resolved by calmly and rationally talking it out with the other characters but no. He'd be all huffy, growly and be Neanderthal-like over them. It's cute the first few times but then it overstayed its welcome.
Finding out who was behind the attacks and how the overall problem was resolved was a bit of a letdown. I was expecting something else actually and that wasn't it exactly what I had in mind. The lovefest between the characters is a bit much and borders on irritating at times. They can be like your nosy neighbors who you'd prefer to mind their own business.
Overall this book was an alright read. 3.0 stars out of 5 stars for me.
February 6, 2019
First I have to say I was really worried that this book would be full of dick and sex jokes. I am happy to say that it was not. Ronan and a few others tried, but they were shut down very quickly.
I also loved that the romance between these two is slow building. With everything we know about Jude and what we learned about Cope, you'd think their romance would be explosive and fiery. I think when they finally come together, it will be more meaningful.
What I didn't like about this story was the bad guy. He had a stupid reason for wanting to hurt Cope and it barely made any sense.
The climax was anticlimactic and could have been better.
The whole thing about bringing Bertha back didn't really make any sense and I don't see why it was necessary to the plot. All it did was make me cry.
And we didn't get to see a lot of Cope's skills. He said he was a Medium and a witch but there was very little ghost or magick interaction.
Also I'm a little confused on Jude's abilities. There was a healer in the Cold Case Psychic series. I forget his name, but he's dating the ME right now. Anyway, are Jude's powers the same as his? Is Jude more powerful? There was just so little explanation. Is there going to be more info later? I don't know...
Anyway, I'll keep reading because Pandora Pine's books keep me entertained.
I also loved that the romance between these two is slow building. With everything we know about Jude and what we learned about Cope, you'd think their romance would be explosive and fiery. I think when they finally come together, it will be more meaningful.
What I didn't like about this story was the bad guy. He had a stupid reason for wanting to hurt Cope and it barely made any sense.
The climax was anticlimactic and could have been better.
The whole thing about bringing Bertha back didn't really make any sense and I don't see why it was necessary to the plot. All it did was make me cry.
And we didn't get to see a lot of Cope's skills. He said he was a Medium and a witch but there was very little ghost or magick interaction.
Also I'm a little confused on Jude's abilities. There was a healer in the Cold Case Psychic series. I forget his name, but he's dating the ME right now. Anyway, are Jude's powers the same as his? Is Jude more powerful? There was just so little explanation. Is there going to be more info later? I don't know...
Anyway, I'll keep reading because Pandora Pine's books keep me entertained.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2023
A Little Help From Friends
This is a good start to this series. It was good to have old and new friends & family show up to help figure out what is happening to Cope. The ending was a little anticlimactic though. I'm still interested in how things will go with Jude & Copeland's first real case together.
This is a good start to this series. It was good to have old and new friends & family show up to help figure out what is happening to Cope. The ending was a little anticlimactic though. I'm still interested in how things will go with Jude & Copeland's first real case together.
January 12, 2019
Really enjoyed getting to learn about Jude and some of his back history.
The mystery was good as well and never guessed the baddie.
Lots of appearances by the normal charcatrs and now we leave Jude and Cope to start their lives as investigators. Should be interesting.
The mystery was good as well and never guessed the baddie.
Lots of appearances by the normal charcatrs and now we leave Jude and Cope to start their lives as investigators. Should be interesting.
January 9, 2019
Holy Spirits! This book was a solid introduction for me to yet another new to me author. As it turns out, while it says that it is the first in a series, it is the first in a *spinoff* series where the characters from the original series still make a very heavy, central, and indeed pivotal appearance. (Indeed, one half of the couple featured in this very slow burn romance was originally introduced in the older series and apparently plays significant supporting roles in some of those books, based on what other reviews say about him.) I can tell you from having no exposure to the larger series that this book is perfectly understandable without it, and you get solid characterization of the previously existing characters as well as the new characters introduced here. Overall a strong, solid story, and one that will very likely have me going back to read the larger series *as well as* looking forward to the continuation of the new spinoff series.
June 29, 2020
I don't honestly know how Ms. Pine continues to write such wonderful stories in this world. Add to that the voice of Michael Pauley narrating these characters, and I am utter goo. I am completely addicted!!
Jude has been a fun character, especially with his snarky relationship with Ronan. We always knew he had a lot of layers to him, but to see them peeled away in this book was incredible. Cope and Jude were a great couple, even if they don't quite know they are getting there yet (lol). This has some romance elements and a build-up of Jude and Cope getting together, but this doesn't end with them as a couple. Normally I am wanting my HEA, but I see where this is going and definitely see one in the future. I admit to a few tears as I listened to this. Bertha Craig is one hell of a woman.
I am voluntarily reviving an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
Jude has been a fun character, especially with his snarky relationship with Ronan. We always knew he had a lot of layers to him, but to see them peeled away in this book was incredible. Cope and Jude were a great couple, even if they don't quite know they are getting there yet (lol). This has some romance elements and a build-up of Jude and Cope getting together, but this doesn't end with them as a couple. Normally I am wanting my HEA, but I see where this is going and definitely see one in the future. I admit to a few tears as I listened to this. Bertha Craig is one hell of a woman.
I am voluntarily reviving an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
May 22, 2021
This is a good story, and I like both protagonists quite enough. The storyline is interesting, and it's a good mystery but... there are too many people here. I get that this is a spin-off. and maybe that's why EVERYBODY and his dog is here, but I really hope that that is something that will change in the next books in the series.
And, TBH, I don't really see a lot of chemistry between Jude and Cope, and I prefer to categorize this as a mystery with gay characters than as a romance.
But, as I say at the beginning, the story is engaging, and there is a lot of potential in this series...
Edit for relistening: Well, after listening again this story (I was planning to listen to the second one) I have come to the conclusion that my main issue is that I really, really hate Michael Pauley's narration. I will continue this series by ebook, as he reads the second one too.
And, TBH, I don't really see a lot of chemistry between Jude and Cope, and I prefer to categorize this as a mystery with gay characters than as a romance.
But, as I say at the beginning, the story is engaging, and there is a lot of potential in this series...
Edit for relistening: Well, after listening again this story (I was planning to listen to the second one) I have come to the conclusion that my main issue is that I really, really hate Michael Pauley's narration. I will continue this series by ebook, as he reads the second one too.
February 26, 2019
I've been a fan of the Cold Case series for a long time. I enjoy the good variety of characters with their assorted gifts. The ending was very anti-climactic after the huge build up. It was quite a let down in my opinion. The other nagging thing I am running into is that it is difficult to believe that all of these renown spiritualists are gay. Being gay myself, I very much enjoy a story with gay characters and romance but there comes a time where reality becomes stretched so thinly that it becomes ridiculous. Please put the train back Ms Pine and make the stories more real feeling again.
November 6, 2020
What a struggle to read
I was not familiar with this author but the synopsis of the book(s) sounded interesting so I started with book one. A handful of chapters in I was struggling. The story line tossed up a lot of character right away. But where the book became tedious was the dialogue. It felt unnatural, immature and rough. Like a middle schooler attempting to write dialogue for the first time. I found myself grinding my teeth the further along I read. It just felt juvenile with the author falling back on an overuse of profanity to sound more grown up. Ugh!! Save yourself time and money and skip this series.
I was not familiar with this author but the synopsis of the book(s) sounded interesting so I started with book one. A handful of chapters in I was struggling. The story line tossed up a lot of character right away. But where the book became tedious was the dialogue. It felt unnatural, immature and rough. Like a middle schooler attempting to write dialogue for the first time. I found myself grinding my teeth the further along I read. It just felt juvenile with the author falling back on an overuse of profanity to sound more grown up. Ugh!! Save yourself time and money and skip this series.
December 3, 2020
DNF at 18%.
June 23, 2025
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a great job.
November 1, 2024
Note: This is a spin-off series. I had no idea. There is nothing in the details anywhere that says it's a spin-off series. I only realized this as I was reading it, because there were too many characters I got the sense I was supposed to know.
While I absolutely do not mind having a huge cast of characters, I will admit that this series felt rather chaotic to me. I couldn't figure out if it was a spin-off or not, but even then, I felt I was still enjoying the plotline enough to follow through with it. We have a host of characters that are magical: psychic, wizards, a ghost, a Navajo healer, etc. I absolutely adored that. I also adored the set up, with one of our MCs arriving half-dead on the doorstep of the other MCs. That being said, the lead up of the stakes lead to absolutely no pay-off whatsoever and a lot of the way they acted felt super strange to me. The main MCs had never met and yet were acting like they'd known each other for years. It was hard to square away. But I was most disappointed with the climactic event and so I'm not sure if I'll continue this series.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
No.
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: This book is jam packed with characters and nearly all of them don't get descriptions: you're supposed to simply know who they are and the massive extended family and all the relationships between them. NI was able to work with it although it wasn't ideal. Of the two main characters, Copeland and Jude, I struggled with how their relationship was meant to work out. Copeland I'm assuming hadn't really been introduced before, so we got the most fleshed out characterization from him. Jude had enough of a backstory that, while I could glean what he was like, confused me when it came to their relationship. Copeland and Jude acted as though they'd known each other forever yet it was only three days. Even in the middle of stating that, it would be a strange discrepancy that made no sense to me: "They'd known each other three days" and the next sentence would be Copeland commenting about how he "knew" that this wasn't how Jude normally acted. Uh. Ok? I enjoyed them as characters, which was enough to keep me reading, so there's that!
PLOT Famous psychic Copeland ended up pissing off someone who psychically attacks him. The only way to save himself is to go to Salem and find Jude and co. A lot of it is "just things they know" because of their gifts. Jude instantly attaches to him like super glue even though it goes against everything he usually is. The two of them end up working together (with the massive host of other characters), to save Copeland and prepare for the major showdown when his assailant comes into town and confronts him. In the end, they find out who it is and... well it's over in the blink of an eye. Somewhere in there Jude and Copeland apparently develop some feelings for each other, but most of the plot doesn't really involve a romance (which I don't mind). Ultimately, the set up is brilliant and then the execution fizzles and dies, leaving us with no pay-off.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
2:5/low. The potential was there, especially with the stakes as high as they are at the beginning, but sadly it never rises. Too much is packed in with too many sudden switches in character actions that feel like getting hit in the face with a wet fish.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
0%. If you'd asked me if the climactic event would be negligible based on the lead up from the rest of the book, I would have vehemently said there was no way. However, in all seriousness, the 'final battle' felt like Cope realized who was hurting him, got pissed, snapped his fingers, and then the antagonist just said "ok" and left. I literally blinked and couldn't believe what I'd just read. After all the anticipation, there was absolutely no pay-off. I was truly shocked.
While I absolutely do not mind having a huge cast of characters, I will admit that this series felt rather chaotic to me. I couldn't figure out if it was a spin-off or not, but even then, I felt I was still enjoying the plotline enough to follow through with it. We have a host of characters that are magical: psychic, wizards, a ghost, a Navajo healer, etc. I absolutely adored that. I also adored the set up, with one of our MCs arriving half-dead on the doorstep of the other MCs. That being said, the lead up of the stakes lead to absolutely no pay-off whatsoever and a lot of the way they acted felt super strange to me. The main MCs had never met and yet were acting like they'd known each other for years. It was hard to square away. But I was most disappointed with the climactic event and so I'm not sure if I'll continue this series.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
No.
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: This book is jam packed with characters and nearly all of them don't get descriptions: you're supposed to simply know who they are and the massive extended family and all the relationships between them. NI was able to work with it although it wasn't ideal. Of the two main characters, Copeland and Jude, I struggled with how their relationship was meant to work out. Copeland I'm assuming hadn't really been introduced before, so we got the most fleshed out characterization from him. Jude had enough of a backstory that, while I could glean what he was like, confused me when it came to their relationship. Copeland and Jude acted as though they'd known each other forever yet it was only three days. Even in the middle of stating that, it would be a strange discrepancy that made no sense to me: "They'd known each other three days" and the next sentence would be Copeland commenting about how he "knew" that this wasn't how Jude normally acted. Uh. Ok? I enjoyed them as characters, which was enough to keep me reading, so there's that!
PLOT Famous psychic Copeland ended up pissing off someone who psychically attacks him. The only way to save himself is to go to Salem and find Jude and co. A lot of it is "just things they know" because of their gifts. Jude instantly attaches to him like super glue even though it goes against everything he usually is. The two of them end up working together (with the massive host of other characters), to save Copeland and prepare for the major showdown when his assailant comes into town and confronts him. In the end, they find out who it is and... well it's over in the blink of an eye. Somewhere in there Jude and Copeland apparently develop some feelings for each other, but most of the plot doesn't really involve a romance (which I don't mind). Ultimately, the set up is brilliant and then the execution fizzles and dies, leaving us with no pay-off.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
2:5/low. The potential was there, especially with the stakes as high as they are at the beginning, but sadly it never rises. Too much is packed in with too many sudden switches in character actions that feel like getting hit in the face with a wet fish.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
0%. If you'd asked me if the climactic event would be negligible based on the lead up from the rest of the book, I would have vehemently said there was no way. However, in all seriousness, the 'final battle' felt like Cope realized who was hurting him, got pissed, snapped his fingers, and then the antagonist just said "ok" and left. I literally blinked and couldn't believe what I'd just read. After all the anticipation, there was absolutely no pay-off. I was truly shocked.
January 13, 2019
Two broken men find that Fate and enemies have more sway over their lives than either ever anticipated. When Copeland Forbes is forced to seek help with only a name and a feeling to go on, he winds up collapsing on our Cold Case heroes' doorstep. But when the name he utters isn't theirs, it's Jude's, they're all in for a ride that won't be forgotten any time soon. Someone is psychically attacking Copeland and with Jude's unique heritage and his adopted family's support, they'll combine forces to rid Copeland of whoever is haunting him with deadly desires.
Jude has been a volatile enigma from the moment we met him in Dead Ringer. But over time we've seen him soften, open up, and accept the affection of everyone in the Cold Case Crew. What we get in Ghost of Himself is nothing short of illuminating. His vulnerability, insight, and tenderness is showcased alongside his ever-present attitude. While I really loved getting to know him on a deeper level I felt that he read a lot like Ronan. I know the joke between everyone is that they're essentially brothers and more alike than either of them would ever admit, but when Jude finally gets his own voice, it's literally as if Ronan's voice is in my head instead of Jude's. I was expecting more, something innately unique in his voice instead of just relying on his heritage and "dating" history to set him apart.
Copeland was relatively different. I found him pretty mild and a little bland, but more like a blank slate with possibility than a throwaway character. As we get to know him from here on out we'll get to see his magick capabilities and he'll gain depth. At least, I hope we will.
The drama was drawn out with virtually no hints, no leads, and no investigation. It felt more like a set-up of Jude's past and how it could play a role in Copeland's current predicament rather than dealing with Copeland's drama. His drama was ever-present, but never really felt like the true focus. The arguments between them seemed just as disjointed as Roman and Ten's often do and are just as quickly resolved, redirected, or glossed over. The relationship dynamic is surprisingly fantastic, though. I truly appreciated how slow it went, thus establishing Jude's changes and giving them a more solid foundation to build on as this new series progresses. I'm a fan of that. The groundwork laid for the future of this series was hurried but well done. I'm looking forward to where this is going and think this could evolve into something really great, provided that they find unique voices really quickly.
Jude has been a volatile enigma from the moment we met him in Dead Ringer. But over time we've seen him soften, open up, and accept the affection of everyone in the Cold Case Crew. What we get in Ghost of Himself is nothing short of illuminating. His vulnerability, insight, and tenderness is showcased alongside his ever-present attitude. While I really loved getting to know him on a deeper level I felt that he read a lot like Ronan. I know the joke between everyone is that they're essentially brothers and more alike than either of them would ever admit, but when Jude finally gets his own voice, it's literally as if Ronan's voice is in my head instead of Jude's. I was expecting more, something innately unique in his voice instead of just relying on his heritage and "dating" history to set him apart.
Copeland was relatively different. I found him pretty mild and a little bland, but more like a blank slate with possibility than a throwaway character. As we get to know him from here on out we'll get to see his magick capabilities and he'll gain depth. At least, I hope we will.
The drama was drawn out with virtually no hints, no leads, and no investigation. It felt more like a set-up of Jude's past and how it could play a role in Copeland's current predicament rather than dealing with Copeland's drama. His drama was ever-present, but never really felt like the true focus. The arguments between them seemed just as disjointed as Roman and Ten's often do and are just as quickly resolved, redirected, or glossed over. The relationship dynamic is surprisingly fantastic, though. I truly appreciated how slow it went, thus establishing Jude's changes and giving them a more solid foundation to build on as this new series progresses. I'm a fan of that. The groundwork laid for the future of this series was hurried but well done. I'm looking forward to where this is going and think this could evolve into something really great, provided that they find unique voices really quickly.
July 9, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2 (Story is insta-love/super slow burn, emotional connection established first)
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration: 4.5
I love the world and characters Pandora's created!!
The world Pandora has created is extensive, challenging, often dangerous and wonderful. Everything you could imagine seems to be possible here and I love that she's expanding on the supernatural elements with witches, witchcraft and Native American culture and healings.
I loved Jude in the other books and was so excited for his story. I love Pandora's writing and the Cold Case Series is one of my all time favorites. To be honest and say I wanted a bit more from Jude and Cope's story, but I understand and am intrigued by the way Pandora chose to go with these two.
From my reading, I felt there was a bit of an insta-love connection for Cope towards Jude but Jude has his walls up. Jude can still feel the connection but is more wary of it. This insta-love was good but conflicting at times with a lot of simmering heat that doesn't really progress much of the time. Jude and Cope are drawn to each other quickly and Jude becomes wonderfully protective towards Cope which is great to 'see' and provides for much of Pandora's wonderful humor!! As these two, face the various challenges coming at them more of Jude's past is revealed and his walls finally start to come down. When Bertha is reincarnated there was not a dry eye in the book (or out of it) I was balling! This was such a wonderful part of the book, it truly touched my heart and will stay with me forever.
I love that Pandora included all the characters from the whole Cold Case Psychic world in this story and I loved 'seeing' the continued bromance/brotherhood evolve between Jude and Roman.
This story is very much a start to Jude and Copeland's journey and sort of ends with them together but not. Pandora has done a wonderful set up for many more Jude and Cope stories and I look forward to seeing where they go and what is next for them.
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2 (Story is insta-love/super slow burn, emotional connection established first)
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration: 4.5
I love the world and characters Pandora's created!!
The world Pandora has created is extensive, challenging, often dangerous and wonderful. Everything you could imagine seems to be possible here and I love that she's expanding on the supernatural elements with witches, witchcraft and Native American culture and healings.
I loved Jude in the other books and was so excited for his story. I love Pandora's writing and the Cold Case Series is one of my all time favorites. To be honest and say I wanted a bit more from Jude and Cope's story, but I understand and am intrigued by the way Pandora chose to go with these two.
From my reading, I felt there was a bit of an insta-love connection for Cope towards Jude but Jude has his walls up. Jude can still feel the connection but is more wary of it. This insta-love was good but conflicting at times with a lot of simmering heat that doesn't really progress much of the time. Jude and Cope are drawn to each other quickly and Jude becomes wonderfully protective towards Cope which is great to 'see' and provides for much of Pandora's wonderful humor!! As these two, face the various challenges coming at them more of Jude's past is revealed and his walls finally start to come down. When Bertha is reincarnated there was not a dry eye in the book (or out of it) I was balling! This was such a wonderful part of the book, it truly touched my heart and will stay with me forever.
I love that Pandora included all the characters from the whole Cold Case Psychic world in this story and I loved 'seeing' the continued bromance/brotherhood evolve between Jude and Roman.
This story is very much a start to Jude and Copeland's journey and sort of ends with them together but not. Pandora has done a wonderful set up for many more Jude and Cope stories and I look forward to seeing where they go and what is next for them.
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
December 30, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4 stars
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2 sort of insta-love/super slow burn (emotions first, then “sex”)
I love the world and characters Pandora’s created!!
The world Pandora has created is extensive, challenging, often dangerous and wonderful. Everything you could imagine seems to be possible here and I love that she’s expanding on the supernatural elements with witches, witchcraft and Native American culture and healings.
I loved Jude in the other books and was so excited for his story. I love Pandora’s writing and the Cold Case Series is one of my all time favourites. But I have to be honest and say I wanted more from Jude and Cope’s story.
******SPOILERS BELOW*******
From my reading I felt there was a bit of an insta-love connection for Cope towards Jude but Jude has his walls up. Jude can still feel the connection but is more wary of it. This insta-love was good but conflicting at times with a lot of simmering heat that doesn’t really progress much of the time. Jude and Cope are drawn to each other quickly and Jude becomes wonderfully protective towards Cope which is great to ‘see’ and provides for much of Pandora’s wonderful humour!! As these two face the challenges coming at them more of Jude’s past is revealed and his walls finally start to come down. When Bertha is reincarnated there was not a dry eye in the book (or out of it) I was balling! This was such a wonderful part of the book, it truly touched my heart and will stay with me forever.
I love that Pandora included all the characters from the whole Cold Case Psychic world in this story and I loved ‘seeing’ the continued bromance/brotherhood evolve between Jude and Roman.
This story is very much a start to Jude and Copeland’s journey and sort of ends with them together but not. Pandora has done a wonderful set up for many more Jude and Cope stories and I look forward to seeing where they go and what is next for them.
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2 sort of insta-love/super slow burn (emotions first, then “sex”)
I love the world and characters Pandora’s created!!
The world Pandora has created is extensive, challenging, often dangerous and wonderful. Everything you could imagine seems to be possible here and I love that she’s expanding on the supernatural elements with witches, witchcraft and Native American culture and healings.
I loved Jude in the other books and was so excited for his story. I love Pandora’s writing and the Cold Case Series is one of my all time favourites. But I have to be honest and say I wanted more from Jude and Cope’s story.
******SPOILERS BELOW*******
From my reading I felt there was a bit of an insta-love connection for Cope towards Jude but Jude has his walls up. Jude can still feel the connection but is more wary of it. This insta-love was good but conflicting at times with a lot of simmering heat that doesn’t really progress much of the time. Jude and Cope are drawn to each other quickly and Jude becomes wonderfully protective towards Cope which is great to ‘see’ and provides for much of Pandora’s wonderful humour!! As these two face the challenges coming at them more of Jude’s past is revealed and his walls finally start to come down. When Bertha is reincarnated there was not a dry eye in the book (or out of it) I was balling! This was such a wonderful part of the book, it truly touched my heart and will stay with me forever.
I love that Pandora included all the characters from the whole Cold Case Psychic world in this story and I loved ‘seeing’ the continued bromance/brotherhood evolve between Jude and Roman.
This story is very much a start to Jude and Copeland’s journey and sort of ends with them together but not. Pandora has done a wonderful set up for many more Jude and Cope stories and I look forward to seeing where they go and what is next for them.
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
January 6, 2019
Copeland Forbes has been secluded himself since he had been attacked by a former lover/student in his magick shop. He’s been facing psychic attacks and can’t cope any longer. He ends up in Salem Massachusetts looking for Jude Bryne because he’s the one man that can apparently help him.
As we learn more about Jude and his Healer abilities, the answers Copeland is searching for slowly unfurls just as the chemistry between the two men does as well. What I liked about this book was seeing the ensemble of the Cold Case Psychic Cast. It was fun seeing them as the not so main characters (honestly they were though). Of course, Bertha was a star.
So very unpopular opinion, I had problems with this book, and it KILLS me to admit it. I loved Pine’s Cold Case Psychic series (what I’ve read of it so far). That being said, you should know something about me. I am a Louisiana native and live twenty minutes from New Orleans. There is the problem right there. I’m a native reading a novel written by someone who is very much northern. There’s no one way say, “crawdad” unless we’re making fun of someone. We don’t all speak French or have a Cajun accent. Typically you find that four hours west, in Lafayette. We have flat accents. You’ll find more Spanish speaking folks in the French Quarter than French. I know, sounds ridiculous but it’s the truth. We do not run around saying, “NOLA”. It irked my nerves. What you see on NCIS New Orleans is not what you actually get in New Orleans.
So besides all of that – which most people won’t even bat an eye at – this was extremely repetitive. Especially concerning Jude’s inner thoughts and going over the same situations with different characters at different times. We know the characters need to know, but you can tell us in a different way that these characters were informed. I feel like that was used as filler and to get the page count up. The resolution seemed like an after thought because there was so much build up and then bleh. Not that exciting.
This was honestly a miss for me. But it might not be for you. Check it out.
As we learn more about Jude and his Healer abilities, the answers Copeland is searching for slowly unfurls just as the chemistry between the two men does as well. What I liked about this book was seeing the ensemble of the Cold Case Psychic Cast. It was fun seeing them as the not so main characters (honestly they were though). Of course, Bertha was a star.
So very unpopular opinion, I had problems with this book, and it KILLS me to admit it. I loved Pine’s Cold Case Psychic series (what I’ve read of it so far). That being said, you should know something about me. I am a Louisiana native and live twenty minutes from New Orleans. There is the problem right there. I’m a native reading a novel written by someone who is very much northern. There’s no one way say, “crawdad” unless we’re making fun of someone. We don’t all speak French or have a Cajun accent. Typically you find that four hours west, in Lafayette. We have flat accents. You’ll find more Spanish speaking folks in the French Quarter than French. I know, sounds ridiculous but it’s the truth. We do not run around saying, “NOLA”. It irked my nerves. What you see on NCIS New Orleans is not what you actually get in New Orleans.
So besides all of that – which most people won’t even bat an eye at – this was extremely repetitive. Especially concerning Jude’s inner thoughts and going over the same situations with different characters at different times. We know the characters need to know, but you can tell us in a different way that these characters were informed. I feel like that was used as filler and to get the page count up. The resolution seemed like an after thought because there was so much build up and then bleh. Not that exciting.
This was honestly a miss for me. But it might not be for you. Check it out.
January 11, 2019
3.5 Stars
First things first, this is my first book by Pandora Pine and it's a spinoff from her Cold Case Psychic series, while I imagine the book might have been better had I read that series first, the author provided enough info that I wasn't lost, even with the huge cast of secondary characters included.
This is not a romance, it's a mystery with some romantic elements. It's a slow-burn, seriously, while there's an instant connection between Cope and Jude, other than some touches and cuddling nothing else happens until 84% into the book. That doesn't mean that Cope and Jude didn't have chemistry, because they did, it just fell into the backburner with everything else happening, plus I have a feeling that it was a way to show how different Cope was from all of Jude's previous hookups. *shrugs* At least we have the promise of more books, so hopefully we'll see Cope and Jude's relationship develop as they work together.
The mystery was intriguing. While I like that the author managed to keep the bad guy's identity under wraps until the last portion of the book, I would have liked to have a bit more of an inkling. It was a bit anticlimactic how fast it all got resolved after all the buildup.
I liked Cope and Jude, they were flawed and real and I think that if they give each other a chance, they can make it in the long run. The rest of the characters were likable and really contributed to moving the plot along, especially Bertha, who I adored.
Even if there were a few things that didn't quite work for me, this was a good read. It drags a bit in certain parts, mostly when some of the scenes are repeated from another POV, but it was interesting and kept my interest and I'm actually looking forward to the next book, so I have no trouble recommending it.
*** Copy provided to the reviewer via Les Court Author Services for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
First things first, this is my first book by Pandora Pine and it's a spinoff from her Cold Case Psychic series, while I imagine the book might have been better had I read that series first, the author provided enough info that I wasn't lost, even with the huge cast of secondary characters included.
This is not a romance, it's a mystery with some romantic elements. It's a slow-burn, seriously, while there's an instant connection between Cope and Jude, other than some touches and cuddling nothing else happens until 84% into the book. That doesn't mean that Cope and Jude didn't have chemistry, because they did, it just fell into the backburner with everything else happening, plus I have a feeling that it was a way to show how different Cope was from all of Jude's previous hookups. *shrugs* At least we have the promise of more books, so hopefully we'll see Cope and Jude's relationship develop as they work together.
The mystery was intriguing. While I like that the author managed to keep the bad guy's identity under wraps until the last portion of the book, I would have liked to have a bit more of an inkling. It was a bit anticlimactic how fast it all got resolved after all the buildup.
I liked Cope and Jude, they were flawed and real and I think that if they give each other a chance, they can make it in the long run. The rest of the characters were likable and really contributed to moving the plot along, especially Bertha, who I adored.
Even if there were a few things that didn't quite work for me, this was a good read. It drags a bit in certain parts, mostly when some of the scenes are repeated from another POV, but it was interesting and kept my interest and I'm actually looking forward to the next book, so I have no trouble recommending it.
*** Copy provided to the reviewer via Les Court Author Services for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 30, 2018
3.5 stars!
I received an ARC copy and voluntarily reviewed this book.
This is the first book in the Haunted Souls series which is a spin off of the cold case psychic series. It can be read without reading previous series but you will get the most out of this book by reading everything in order.
I've been waiting for Jude's story for about 4 books! He was a mystery in our lives until now. Well...maybe he is a little less mysterious now but the mystery is still alive and well.
Here we meet Cope, a psychic witch, who has been in hiding for 2 years after an attack from his ex boyfriend. He shows up at Ro and Ten's house looking for Jude to save him. A bunch of drama happens and the avengers save the day.
What I liked was FINALLY learning something about Jude. What I didn't like was that it took over 1 year to even consider telling Ro and Ten but Cope enters the house and Jude starts singing. It felt very insta-trust for me which isn't characteristic of Jude. I suppose this can be explained away with intuition. I also liked that we saw more of our favorite family members and I loved meeting them through a new comers eyes. The "case" was also very magick intense which I thought was really spooky and kept me on the edge of my seat. It was a real page turner mystery.
Overall, this was a good first book for Jude. I'm classifying it as an MM mystery/thriller since this one is romance lite.
I received an ARC copy and voluntarily reviewed this book.
This is the first book in the Haunted Souls series which is a spin off of the cold case psychic series. It can be read without reading previous series but you will get the most out of this book by reading everything in order.
I've been waiting for Jude's story for about 4 books! He was a mystery in our lives until now. Well...maybe he is a little less mysterious now but the mystery is still alive and well.
Here we meet Cope, a psychic witch, who has been in hiding for 2 years after an attack from his ex boyfriend. He shows up at Ro and Ten's house looking for Jude to save him. A bunch of drama happens and the avengers save the day.
What I liked was FINALLY learning something about Jude. What I didn't like was that it took over 1 year to even consider telling Ro and Ten but Cope enters the house and Jude starts singing. It felt very insta-trust for me which isn't characteristic of Jude. I suppose this can be explained away with intuition. I also liked that we saw more of our favorite family members and I loved meeting them through a new comers eyes. The "case" was also very magick intense which I thought was really spooky and kept me on the edge of my seat. It was a real page turner mystery.
Overall, this was a good first book for Jude. I'm classifying it as an MM mystery/thriller since this one is romance lite.
December 30, 2018
I will start by saying that unlike other books in this series, Ghost of Himself does not have the same romance elements. The characters have fabulous chemistry and it’s super slow burn but their romance, such as it is, takes a back seat. This is a story of two men finding themselves and finding a family. That being said, the book itself was immensely enjoyable and the signature ‘mystery’ element is present and exciting.
Jude, a successful PI and familiar character in this series, has finally given up his playboy ways and is starting to trust his new family. Just as he is about to tell his friends who he is, a man lands in his friends doorstep claiming Jude will be the one to help him.
Copeland has lived the last two years of his life in exile. No friends, no family, no magic! Cope is suffering from a psychic attach which has left him physically defenceless. On the advise of Bertha, he travels to Salam in search of help from Jude and his rag-tag family.
I enjoyed this book just as a ‘mystery’ story. I loved watching the characters grow and find themselves and seeing the bonds of family strengthen was fabulous. Jude is finally allowing himself to trust again, reconnecting with his ancestors and finding himself. While Cope plays a part in this, both men are given the chance to just be themselves.
I do hope there will be a follow up story for Jude and Cope.
Jude, a successful PI and familiar character in this series, has finally given up his playboy ways and is starting to trust his new family. Just as he is about to tell his friends who he is, a man lands in his friends doorstep claiming Jude will be the one to help him.
Copeland has lived the last two years of his life in exile. No friends, no family, no magic! Cope is suffering from a psychic attach which has left him physically defenceless. On the advise of Bertha, he travels to Salam in search of help from Jude and his rag-tag family.
I enjoyed this book just as a ‘mystery’ story. I loved watching the characters grow and find themselves and seeing the bonds of family strengthen was fabulous. Jude is finally allowing himself to trust again, reconnecting with his ancestors and finding himself. While Cope plays a part in this, both men are given the chance to just be themselves.
I do hope there will be a follow up story for Jude and Cope.
May 23, 2019
When a Rajun’ Cajun’ meets a mystic healing man (an audio review)
Copeland Forbes is a man with a problem. After an attack by a former student and lover, he’s been hiding out, keeping a low profile. In other words, not using his psychic ability. When his health takes a turn for the worse and no medical professional can help, he heads to Salem Massachusetts to find the one man he’s been led to believe will help.
Jude Byrne is surprised when a gaunt man turns up in a rainstorm saying his name. He has abilities he hasn’t shared with his friends, but they soon learn what he can do when he helps the stranger. Together Jude and Copeland have to find out what’s making Copeland sick before it’s too late.
I liked this book. It is clearly a spin off of a series and those who enjoyed the previous one will love the chance to visit old friends. If, like me, you haven’t been in this world before, no worries. I was never lost and able to keep up. The relationship between the two men was nice. I loved Copeland’s attitude and Jude’s protectiveness.
The book is narrated by Michael Pauley whom I adore. His Cajun accent was really good and I liked how he handled all the male characters. He also did well with Bertha so that was worth something as well. Overall I can recommend this book.
Copeland Forbes is a man with a problem. After an attack by a former student and lover, he’s been hiding out, keeping a low profile. In other words, not using his psychic ability. When his health takes a turn for the worse and no medical professional can help, he heads to Salem Massachusetts to find the one man he’s been led to believe will help.
Jude Byrne is surprised when a gaunt man turns up in a rainstorm saying his name. He has abilities he hasn’t shared with his friends, but they soon learn what he can do when he helps the stranger. Together Jude and Copeland have to find out what’s making Copeland sick before it’s too late.
I liked this book. It is clearly a spin off of a series and those who enjoyed the previous one will love the chance to visit old friends. If, like me, you haven’t been in this world before, no worries. I was never lost and able to keep up. The relationship between the two men was nice. I loved Copeland’s attitude and Jude’s protectiveness.
The book is narrated by Michael Pauley whom I adore. His Cajun accent was really good and I liked how he handled all the male characters. He also did well with Bertha so that was worth something as well. Overall I can recommend this book.
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