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Kai Gracen #3
Jacked Cat Jive
The Kai Gracen Series: Book Three
Stalker Kai Gracen knew his human upbringing would eventually clash with his elfin heritage, but not so soon. Between Ryder, a pain-in-his-neck sidhe lord coaxing him to join San Diego’s Southern Rise Court, and picking up bounties for SoCalGov, he has more than enough to deal with. With his loyalties divided between the humans who raised him and the sidhe lord he’s befriended and sworn to protect, Kai finds himself standing at a crossroads.
When a friend begs Kai to rescue a small group of elfin refugees fleeing the Dusk Court, he’s pulled into a dangerous mission with Ryder through San Diego’s understreets and the wilderness beyond. Things go from bad to downright treacherous when Kerrick, Ryder’s cousin, insists on joining them, staking a claim on Southern Rise and Kai.
Burdened by his painful past, Kai must stand with Ryder against Kerrick while facing down the very court he fears and loathes. Dying while on a run is expected for a Stalker, but Kai wonders if embracing his elfin blood also means losing his heart, soul, and humanity along the way.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2019
57 people are currently reading
439 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Ford
79 books1,890 followersRhys Ford is an award-winning author with several long-running LGBT+ mystery, thriller, paranormal, and urban fantasy series and is a two-time LAMBDA finalist and a multiple Gold and Silver Medalist by the Florida Authors and Publishers President’s Book Awards. She is published by Dreamspinner Press, DSP Publications and Rogue Firebird Press.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
January 4, 2020
4.5 Holy Hell Hearts!
Rhys Ford has a varied repertoire. She can do contemporary just as well as fantasy, but it’s the latter where I think she shines and she’s truly outdone herself here with this latest installment.
Briefly, this is a world where fae and humans have been forcibly meshed together, an existence neither really wants but all agree that war is no longer an option due to heavy losses on both sides. Kai is a product of the dark sidhe court, and he’s escaped, prospered, and committed to fight and kill the various monsters that troll the newly formed lands. Ryder is a high fae lord with lofty ideals to guarantee his race’s survival which does not sit well with the more traditional members of the court. Ryder knows that having Kai as his ally (and hopefully eventually in his bed) is the best thing to see his goals become reality. They both agree that change is needed and that starts by retrieving 3 rare fae children in the wild Borderlands.
Of course, what should be simply a dangerous mission turns into one life threatening fiasco after the other. Throw in plenty of new and old monsters alike, meddling sidhe relatives, and haters on both sides, and Kai and company can never catch a break!
Gruesome, brutally violent with quite a bit of gore, Ford definitely puts our reluctant hero through the ringer and what a gripping adventure it is! Kai for sure never wants the attention nor the accolades, all of which make him the best at what he does - a champion for those who have none.
Narrated by Greg Tremblay, I know I don’t have to say anything else, am I right? Also, if ever there was a narrator closely associated with an author, it’s this unbeatable combo.
Overall, points for a tightly woven plot that never fails on the complexity, the world building, or the gritty realism and stomach roiling horror. There’s a story arc in play and it has been since the beginning, but this latest installment really brings to light what I hopefully foresee as wonderful things for this fractured troubled reality where both races must come together to actually survive and thrive. I still believe this is classic urban fantasy at its best, and the romance is just starting to brew a bit stronger here (though don’t get your hopes up that this is typical Ford erotica because it isn’t). Nonetheless, the more realized love potential is compelling to say the least.
Seriously, this series just keeps getting better and better, and I’ve already babbled long enough. Change is definitely a’coming, and Kai will no doubt spearhead the charge with Ryder by his side. I can’t wait to see this unravel, and Ford needs to hustle on getting the next story out because that ending??? Oh my!
Thank you to the publisher/author for the audio in exchange for a honest review
Rhys Ford has a varied repertoire. She can do contemporary just as well as fantasy, but it’s the latter where I think she shines and she’s truly outdone herself here with this latest installment.
Briefly, this is a world where fae and humans have been forcibly meshed together, an existence neither really wants but all agree that war is no longer an option due to heavy losses on both sides. Kai is a product of the dark sidhe court, and he’s escaped, prospered, and committed to fight and kill the various monsters that troll the newly formed lands. Ryder is a high fae lord with lofty ideals to guarantee his race’s survival which does not sit well with the more traditional members of the court. Ryder knows that having Kai as his ally (and hopefully eventually in his bed) is the best thing to see his goals become reality. They both agree that change is needed and that starts by retrieving 3 rare fae children in the wild Borderlands.
Of course, what should be simply a dangerous mission turns into one life threatening fiasco after the other. Throw in plenty of new and old monsters alike, meddling sidhe relatives, and haters on both sides, and Kai and company can never catch a break!
Gruesome, brutally violent with quite a bit of gore, Ford definitely puts our reluctant hero through the ringer and what a gripping adventure it is! Kai for sure never wants the attention nor the accolades, all of which make him the best at what he does - a champion for those who have none.
Narrated by Greg Tremblay, I know I don’t have to say anything else, am I right? Also, if ever there was a narrator closely associated with an author, it’s this unbeatable combo.
Overall, points for a tightly woven plot that never fails on the complexity, the world building, or the gritty realism and stomach roiling horror. There’s a story arc in play and it has been since the beginning, but this latest installment really brings to light what I hopefully foresee as wonderful things for this fractured troubled reality where both races must come together to actually survive and thrive. I still believe this is classic urban fantasy at its best, and the romance is just starting to brew a bit stronger here (though don’t get your hopes up that this is typical Ford erotica because it isn’t). Nonetheless, the more realized love potential is compelling to say the least.
Seriously, this series just keeps getting better and better, and I’ve already babbled long enough. Change is definitely a’coming, and Kai will no doubt spearhead the charge with Ryder by his side. I can’t wait to see this unravel, and Ford needs to hustle on getting the next story out because that ending??? Oh my!
Thank you to the publisher/author for the audio in exchange for a honest review
November 29, 2020
Ahem... *taps mic*
I have an important announcement to make. Can I get a drum roll please?
Thank you! :)
THIS BOOK IS MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE IN THIS SERIES! 5 Stars for everything!
Greg Tremblay has once again outdone himself with his narration and the story itself had more tears - on my part -, more snark (if even possible) from Kai and lots of swooning - umm, that was me again.
Okay, winged dogs, dragons and other fellow monsters keep being an issue and apparently Kai still has not used up all of his cat lives, but I loved every millisecond of it! Sooo, I would be ready for book #4 now... ;-)
I have an important announcement to make. Can I get a drum roll please?
Thank you! :)
THIS BOOK IS MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE IN THIS SERIES! 5 Stars for everything!
Greg Tremblay has once again outdone himself with his narration and the story itself had more tears - on my part -, more snark (if even possible) from Kai and lots of swooning - umm, that was me again.
Okay, winged dogs, dragons and other fellow monsters keep being an issue and apparently Kai still has not used up all of his cat lives, but I loved every millisecond of it! Sooo, I would be ready for book #4 now... ;-)
May 1, 2019
4.5 Stars
I want more of this series. More more more more more!! With every single book, I adore Kai Gracen more and more. He's fiercely independent -- feral, even -- but his heart is so huge, I'm sure we haven't even seen the extent of it. On purpose, because you know he doesn't want that getting out.
In Jacked Cat Jive we see Kai starting to come to terms with emotions he doesn't want and we get a taste of the lengths he will go to for those he loves. He doesn't love many, but he loves with all he is. Ryder is kind of an open book when it comes to Kai, but Kai fights his feelings every step of the way. Spoiler alert: he doesn't really fool anyone.
I enjoy Ryder's presence more and more, as well. My favorite lordling is proving himself, not only to his people, but to Kai. Ryder seems to know just how to approach, Kai, so he doesn't scare off the skittish stalker. Ryder is sure of himself and his status, but he doesn't look down on those who depend on him. He's a good leader. He wants his people to be happy and safe and healthy and he's willing to go a great distance to see that be a reality -- even if it means putting himself in danger.
When his cousin, Kerrick, shows up in an attempt to take over Southern Rise Court, Ryder is willing to see where the chips fall. Kai is ... more skeptical of Kerrick's intentions. I can't say I blame him. Kerrick is...smarmy.
Action, adventure, love, and loss, Jacked Cat Jive has it all, and though it's not really a cliffhanger, the ending has me grabbing for more. PLEASE let the wait not be long.
-------------------------------
ARC of Jacked Cat Jive was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
I want more of this series. More more more more more!! With every single book, I adore Kai Gracen more and more. He's fiercely independent -- feral, even -- but his heart is so huge, I'm sure we haven't even seen the extent of it. On purpose, because you know he doesn't want that getting out.
In Jacked Cat Jive we see Kai starting to come to terms with emotions he doesn't want and we get a taste of the lengths he will go to for those he loves. He doesn't love many, but he loves with all he is. Ryder is kind of an open book when it comes to Kai, but Kai fights his feelings every step of the way. Spoiler alert: he doesn't really fool anyone.
I enjoy Ryder's presence more and more, as well. My favorite lordling is proving himself, not only to his people, but to Kai. Ryder seems to know just how to approach, Kai, so he doesn't scare off the skittish stalker. Ryder is sure of himself and his status, but he doesn't look down on those who depend on him. He's a good leader. He wants his people to be happy and safe and healthy and he's willing to go a great distance to see that be a reality -- even if it means putting himself in danger.
When his cousin, Kerrick, shows up in an attempt to take over Southern Rise Court, Ryder is willing to see where the chips fall. Kai is ... more skeptical of Kerrick's intentions. I can't say I blame him. Kerrick is...smarmy.
Action, adventure, love, and loss, Jacked Cat Jive has it all, and though it's not really a cliffhanger, the ending has me grabbing for more. PLEASE let the wait not be long.
-------------------------------
ARC of Jacked Cat Jive was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2019
5 stars for both the audio and story. This series just keeps getting better!
February 14, 2019
In general:
This is a strong entry into this series, spinning the focus of the story off of Kai and his background, and onto his friends, their lives, their relationships, and general politics of the elf court. Don’t worry, there still manages to be a lot of fighting with monsters and fast paced adventure. Excitement is high, but there’s much less backstory.
Some concerns...
There is quite a bit of explaining what occurred in the prior book (at the beginning of this one). If you are reading all three in a row, you might find this annoying. If you’re like me, and you jumped right into this one having mostly forgotten what happened in the prior ones, then it’s actually quite helpful.
However, there are a couple other points in the book where the author leans on telling rather than showing regarding Kai’s character and how others perceive him. I happen to not mind this but it might annoy some readers.
Things I wish I knew...
This is the third book in the series, but it is not the last.
As we get very little on Kai’s history, family, or backstory, it is a sharp break in content from the previous book in the series. If you wanted some resolution to his complicated and violent relationship with his "birth" family, you will NOT get it in this book.
If you’ve been waiting all this time for Kai and Ryder to finally get down, you’re going to be disappointed too. There is a kiss, and what an amazing kiss it is, but it comes right near the end is the catalyst for more excitement a a tiny cliff hanger for the next book. Romantically what you DO get is a softening of Kai’s perception of and feelings towards Ryder. For lack of a better term, he "warms" up to him, which might allow for greater emotional intimacy in future installments (OH PLEASE).
More please?
I am really looking forward to the next in the series, but I am also getting a little impatient with the drawn out love story. If they don’t get together soon, I may lose faith. As some of you may know, I’m not a huge fan of a long running series, and I hope this one isn’t intended to be much longer than four or five books.
This is a strong entry into this series, spinning the focus of the story off of Kai and his background, and onto his friends, their lives, their relationships, and general politics of the elf court. Don’t worry, there still manages to be a lot of fighting with monsters and fast paced adventure. Excitement is high, but there’s much less backstory.
Some concerns...
There is quite a bit of explaining what occurred in the prior book (at the beginning of this one). If you are reading all three in a row, you might find this annoying. If you’re like me, and you jumped right into this one having mostly forgotten what happened in the prior ones, then it’s actually quite helpful.
However, there are a couple other points in the book where the author leans on telling rather than showing regarding Kai’s character and how others perceive him. I happen to not mind this but it might annoy some readers.
Things I wish I knew...
This is the third book in the series, but it is not the last.
As we get very little on Kai’s history, family, or backstory, it is a sharp break in content from the previous book in the series. If you wanted some resolution to his complicated and violent relationship with his "birth" family, you will NOT get it in this book.
If you’ve been waiting all this time for Kai and Ryder to finally get down, you’re going to be disappointed too. There is a kiss, and what an amazing kiss it is, but it comes right near the end is the catalyst for more excitement a a tiny cliff hanger for the next book. Romantically what you DO get is a softening of Kai’s perception of and feelings towards Ryder. For lack of a better term, he "warms" up to him, which might allow for greater emotional intimacy in future installments (OH PLEASE).
More please?
I am really looking forward to the next in the series, but I am also getting a little impatient with the drawn out love story. If they don’t get together soon, I may lose faith. As some of you may know, I’m not a huge fan of a long running series, and I hope this one isn’t intended to be much longer than four or five books.
December 20, 2019
3,5 stars rounded up
This is the third book in the Kai Gracen series by Rhys Ford and my favorite so far. The books should be read in order for a better understanding of the story and the character's development.
If you're a fan of urban fantasies then this series is definitely for you. But you must know from the start that here it's all about action - a lot of it actually, and not so much about romance. Until now, and it's already the third book, we don't get much romance between the main characters: Stalker Kai Gracen and the Sidhe Lord Ryder.
For me, romance is definitely a plus in a book and here I just needed more. Some intimacy between Kai and Ryder would have made this more enjoyable. But I kept expecting something to happen between them. Anything. Yes, Ryder made clear from the first book that he wants Kai, but Kai kept pushing him away, pretending he wasn't attracted to him. With each book I expected Kai to give into temptation, especially because Ryder was always insisting in joining him in all the missions. So there were plenty of opportunities for them to connect.
The beginning of this book is focused more on Kai. We also get a lot of details about the characters' backgrounds. I have read the first two books recently and didn't really need all the reminders, but I get it that it might help other readers who don't remember much from the previous books. I admit I didn't think I'll stick to this series, but the curiosity won.
A new character falls out of the blue, Kerrick, Ryder’s cousin. He wants to take Ryder's San Diego Southern Rise Court but also Kai.
This book is full of action, just like the other books in the series. Seems like Kai is always fighting a lot of monsters and has so little time for recovery and peace. Thank God he heals faster than a human. He's always so close of dying.
What I loved here the most would be all the emotional scenes with Dempsey - the Stalker human who raised Kai - and also the sweetest ending, even if that felt a little bit like a cliffhanger. I almost screamed AT LAST!!! Kai and Ryder share an earthshaking kiss and it left me wanting MORE!
I have no idea how many books the author planned for this series. But I really hope we're going to get some hot scenes. And soon.
This is the third book in the Kai Gracen series by Rhys Ford and my favorite so far. The books should be read in order for a better understanding of the story and the character's development.
If you're a fan of urban fantasies then this series is definitely for you. But you must know from the start that here it's all about action - a lot of it actually, and not so much about romance. Until now, and it's already the third book, we don't get much romance between the main characters: Stalker Kai Gracen and the Sidhe Lord Ryder.
For me, romance is definitely a plus in a book and here I just needed more. Some intimacy between Kai and Ryder would have made this more enjoyable. But I kept expecting something to happen between them. Anything. Yes, Ryder made clear from the first book that he wants Kai, but Kai kept pushing him away, pretending he wasn't attracted to him. With each book I expected Kai to give into temptation, especially because Ryder was always insisting in joining him in all the missions. So there were plenty of opportunities for them to connect.
The beginning of this book is focused more on Kai. We also get a lot of details about the characters' backgrounds. I have read the first two books recently and didn't really need all the reminders, but I get it that it might help other readers who don't remember much from the previous books. I admit I didn't think I'll stick to this series, but the curiosity won.
A new character falls out of the blue, Kerrick, Ryder’s cousin. He wants to take Ryder's San Diego Southern Rise Court but also Kai.
This book is full of action, just like the other books in the series. Seems like Kai is always fighting a lot of monsters and has so little time for recovery and peace. Thank God he heals faster than a human. He's always so close of dying.
What I loved here the most would be all the emotional scenes with Dempsey - the Stalker human who raised Kai - and also the sweetest ending, even if that felt a little bit like a cliffhanger. I almost screamed AT LAST!!! Kai and Ryder share an earthshaking kiss and it left me wanting MORE!
I have no idea how many books the author planned for this series. But I really hope we're going to get some hot scenes. And soon.
This review is posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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May 13, 2019Using this to anchor. Will delete once released.
March 17, 2019
I think ΛNNΞ - says it all better than me.
I love Kai, this is a great action packed story with an interesting world. Ford's writing is a mix of purple prose and punchy sentences that can work well. Yet as much as I enjoyed reading this instalment -which I did- it also doesn't offer much. The overall story arc doesn't progress, the romantic story arc barely progresses and Kai as a character doesn't develop. It felt like a re-hash; there's far too much referring to things from previous books throughout, it didn't feel this story started until at least 30% but even from there the plot strongly echoes the previous book.
The writing was occasionally choppy, the reader teased with information before a scene change with no return. Don't expect any answers. There were at least two incidents where a wrong word had me reread and need to interpret a sentence. And there's some big discrepancies
Romance has always taken second if not third place to the action in this series but this is the third book and it still seems more of a reluctant destined-to-be than a real bond between Kai and Ryder. Ryder seems tamed and lacking spirit, while Kai appears to feel the pull of everyone and to be more getting used to Ryder than feeling anything special for him.
There are some feels inserted in and it's a strongly written action packed adventure, albeit with no real surprises or chills. An enjoyable visit with Kai that carries you along for the run, but completely missable in terms of the series. If you're new to the series I'd recommend the first book and if you're already hooked you'll be reading this anyway for Kai. I'm torn, liking the revisit to Kai but disappointed by the lack of developments.
The end has the feel of a cliffhanger although it's not plot related. It kinda annoyed me!
I love Kai, this is a great action packed story with an interesting world. Ford's writing is a mix of purple prose and punchy sentences that can work well. Yet as much as I enjoyed reading this instalment -which I did- it also doesn't offer much. The overall story arc doesn't progress, the romantic story arc barely progresses and Kai as a character doesn't develop. It felt like a re-hash; there's far too much referring to things from previous books throughout, it didn't feel this story started until at least 30% but even from there the plot strongly echoes the previous book.
The writing was occasionally choppy, the reader teased with information before a scene change with no return. Don't expect any answers. There were at least two incidents where a wrong word had me reread and need to interpret a sentence. And there's some big discrepancies
Romance has always taken second if not third place to the action in this series but this is the third book and it still seems more of a reluctant destined-to-be than a real bond between Kai and Ryder. Ryder seems tamed and lacking spirit, while Kai appears to feel the pull of everyone and to be more getting used to Ryder than feeling anything special for him.
There are some feels inserted in and it's a strongly written action packed adventure, albeit with no real surprises or chills. An enjoyable visit with Kai that carries you along for the run, but completely missable in terms of the series. If you're new to the series I'd recommend the first book and if you're already hooked you'll be reading this anyway for Kai. I'm torn, liking the revisit to Kai but disappointed by the lack of developments.
The end has the feel of a cliffhanger although it's not plot related. It kinda annoyed me!
April 29, 2019
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 because I have such a huge crush on Kai Gracen...he's definitely a favorite for me and I really can't wait to see what's going to happen next...full review to follow soonish!
More Kai and Ryder....sorry no dragons this time...
I think I forgot just how much I loved this series. I know a lot of my friends will tell you that I am unashamedly a Rhys Ford fan. If she writes it, I'll read it and so far I can say without reservation I've loved every word and 'Jacked Cat Jive' is no exception.
As Kai embarks on his latest run to rescue some children at the request of Duffy, one of his dearest friends it seems things aren't complicated and dangerous enough with his personal pain-in-the-backside Sidhe Lord Ryder insisting that he accompany Kai. Ryder has a cousin who's come to town to contest his claim to the Southern Rise Court. A claim that Ryder says is every bit as legitimate as his own and one that even if he can't refute it's legitimacy Kai is pretty sure that Kerrick's motivations for making it are more than a little suspect, but when Kerrick announces that he to will accompany Kai on his run to rescue the children his friend has charged him with protecting Kai realizes that there's not a lot he can do to stop it since Ryder's already extracted a promise from him that he won't kill Kerrick no matter how appealing the thought may be.
What I loved...like seriously and really loved in this book was the interactions between Ryder and Kai. We're still working with a slow burn here and I admit at the start of this I wasn't sure I'd be a fan of this but given Kai's history with the both the Sidhe and the Unsidhe it really makes sense that he'd be beyond cautious in his dealings with them but here in 'Jacked Cat Jive' we see Kai admit to his feelings for Ryder in his own snark filled way.
There was definitely a more emotional side to Kai in this book but have no fear he's still got a long way to go before he gets sappy on us. I love that on an emotional level Kai is being slowly revealed to the reader. He's not an open book and true to his character in many ways what you see is what you get but that doesn't mean you get it all from the word go. Wining Kai Gracen's trust is truly a task worthy of the gods and one that I'm sure Ryder would tell you is not easily accomplished by any means and once you have it the true challenge is never to lose it.
I found the plot in this book to be a bit busier than that of previous stories...sure there were children to be rescued, but there were several other elements involved as well and while some of them were dealt with here other things were only touched on and felt like small teases of things that are yet to come. So while this didn't quite feel like a cliff hanger, for me, it definitely ended on one hella' big tease,
*************************
An ARC of 'Jacked Cat Jive' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
More Kai and Ryder....sorry no dragons this time...
I think I forgot just how much I loved this series. I know a lot of my friends will tell you that I am unashamedly a Rhys Ford fan. If she writes it, I'll read it and so far I can say without reservation I've loved every word and 'Jacked Cat Jive' is no exception.
As Kai embarks on his latest run to rescue some children at the request of Duffy, one of his dearest friends it seems things aren't complicated and dangerous enough with his personal pain-in-the-backside Sidhe Lord Ryder insisting that he accompany Kai. Ryder has a cousin who's come to town to contest his claim to the Southern Rise Court. A claim that Ryder says is every bit as legitimate as his own and one that even if he can't refute it's legitimacy Kai is pretty sure that Kerrick's motivations for making it are more than a little suspect, but when Kerrick announces that he to will accompany Kai on his run to rescue the children his friend has charged him with protecting Kai realizes that there's not a lot he can do to stop it since Ryder's already extracted a promise from him that he won't kill Kerrick no matter how appealing the thought may be.
What I loved...like seriously and really loved in this book was the interactions between Ryder and Kai. We're still working with a slow burn here and I admit at the start of this I wasn't sure I'd be a fan of this but given Kai's history with the both the Sidhe and the Unsidhe it really makes sense that he'd be beyond cautious in his dealings with them but here in 'Jacked Cat Jive' we see Kai admit to his feelings for Ryder in his own snark filled way.
There was definitely a more emotional side to Kai in this book but have no fear he's still got a long way to go before he gets sappy on us. I love that on an emotional level Kai is being slowly revealed to the reader. He's not an open book and true to his character in many ways what you see is what you get but that doesn't mean you get it all from the word go. Wining Kai Gracen's trust is truly a task worthy of the gods and one that I'm sure Ryder would tell you is not easily accomplished by any means and once you have it the true challenge is never to lose it.
I found the plot in this book to be a bit busier than that of previous stories...sure there were children to be rescued, but there were several other elements involved as well and while some of them were dealt with here other things were only touched on and felt like small teases of things that are yet to come. So while this didn't quite feel like a cliff hanger, for me, it definitely ended on one hella' big tease,
*************************
An ARC of 'Jacked Cat Jive' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2019
Kai Gracen never seizes to amaze. No matter how dangerous the road is, he forges ahead full steam. And this time it takes him farther than ever before. When a friend comes to beg for help, Kai can't say no. It should be a simple run if not for the constant danger of being stabbed in the back by ill wishing elfin relatives, inner turmoil and humans hell bent on keeping the war between elfin and human alive.
Kai and Ryder are getting closer to each other. Kai does not give his trust easily and only to a select few. And finally Ryder is included. They have each other's backs and lean on each other for support when needed. Their bond grows stronger despite Kai still resisting it. I loved Ryder's understanding and his unwavering faith in Kai. And Kai was his sarcastic, acerbic but always constant self.
This was a smorgasbord of grand adventure, relationship minefields, amazing unearthly creatures and unexpected allies and outcomes. I loved it! From page on I was hooked. I hope there will be more to come since Kai and Ryder are only just getting started!
Kai and Ryder are getting closer to each other. Kai does not give his trust easily and only to a select few. And finally Ryder is included. They have each other's backs and lean on each other for support when needed. Their bond grows stronger despite Kai still resisting it. I loved Ryder's understanding and his unwavering faith in Kai. And Kai was his sarcastic, acerbic but always constant self.
This was a smorgasbord of grand adventure, relationship minefields, amazing unearthly creatures and unexpected allies and outcomes. I loved it! From page on I was hooked. I hope there will be more to come since Kai and Ryder are only just getting started!
November 9, 2019
I am obsessed with Kai! I need more now! Ugh I hate that the next book in this series isn't written yet. I just want to spend more and more time with Kai and Ryder. I love how reluctantly Kai is getting drawn into to Ryder's life. He wants nothing to do with the other fae and yet he can't resist him either.
This book was one crazy sprint from start to finish. Dang it's a good thing Kai heals fast. And man oh man did I want to punch Ryder's cousin in the face. Grrrrrrrrr...keep your grubby worthless hands off of my Kai! Kerrick is all sorts of an arrogant prick who doesn't deserve to breathe the air Kai walks through. Thinking he can just take over Ryder's court and all he's working towards. Humph!
Loved all the action in this one. There are some crazy beasties out there and I'm still not sure how they've all survived so far. But all I can say is WOW...that ending...hot and beguiling and...GIVE ME MORE NOW!
This book was one crazy sprint from start to finish. Dang it's a good thing Kai heals fast. And man oh man did I want to punch Ryder's cousin in the face. Grrrrrrrrr...keep your grubby worthless hands off of my Kai! Kerrick is all sorts of an arrogant prick who doesn't deserve to breathe the air Kai walks through. Thinking he can just take over Ryder's court and all he's working towards. Humph!
Loved all the action in this one. There are some crazy beasties out there and I'm still not sure how they've all survived so far. But all I can say is WOW...that ending...hot and beguiling and...GIVE ME MORE NOW!
February 21, 2019
Super good. Ryder brought his romance A game here. And the last scene...... *all the heart eyes*
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
March 6, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
This world that Rhys Ford so cleverly and painstakingly creates never ceases to provide non-stop danger aimed directly at poor Kai. Just when I think this author cannot possibly create any more bizarre or deadly creatures, she takes the series up another notch by giving us not one, but two or three such nightmares for Kai to kill. But it’s not all fun and games and killing for Kai because in this book we also learn even more about his past and watch as Kai grapples with the imminent death of Dempsey—the man who essentially saved him from becoming his father’s lifelong science experiment. Despite Dempsey being a mean old so and so and the man who made Kai the excellent stalker he is today through sheer brute force, the porch scene between he and Kai is at least a five tissue chapter and will melt your heart, so be forewarned.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
This world that Rhys Ford so cleverly and painstakingly creates never ceases to provide non-stop danger aimed directly at poor Kai. Just when I think this author cannot possibly create any more bizarre or deadly creatures, she takes the series up another notch by giving us not one, but two or three such nightmares for Kai to kill. But it’s not all fun and games and killing for Kai because in this book we also learn even more about his past and watch as Kai grapples with the imminent death of Dempsey—the man who essentially saved him from becoming his father’s lifelong science experiment. Despite Dempsey being a mean old so and so and the man who made Kai the excellent stalker he is today through sheer brute force, the porch scene between he and Kai is at least a five tissue chapter and will melt your heart, so be forewarned.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
October 23, 2019
Oh wow! My favourite in this series so far
.. And that means something as I adore the other books.
I love the developments in the story and the relationship between Kai and Ryder. But if you are waiting for big romance, keep on waiting
Because this is seriously low-burn. But worth every second
Cari is a great addition to the secondary MCs
I really hope there will be a next book soon!!!!
.. And that means something as I adore the other books.
I love the developments in the story and the relationship between Kai and Ryder. But if you are waiting for big romance, keep on waiting
Because this is seriously low-burn. But worth every second
Cari is a great addition to the secondary MCs
I really hope there will be a next book soon!!!!
March 5, 2019
I really love this series, and the latest installment was no exception. The plot was well developed, and build well on what has come before. The new character brought a lot to the story, and I like how his presence helped the relationships with the characters build and grow. I like the tension between Kai, and Ryder, and that there are actual factors and considerations keeping them apart, and not just some artificial tension. The ending was well done, and while it left me wanting the next book it didn't feel like a cliff hanger either. Another really well done urban fantasy from one of my favorite authors.
March 9, 2019
4.5 stars! Pretty much anything that Rhys Ford writes is an automatic win for me, but I love Kai Gracen something fierce. This third book in his series did nothing to diminish that and everything to fan those flames.<3
And this author has killed me dead with that damn ending! I'm marking it an evil cliffhanger (which, admittedly she doesn't do hardly ever) because what WHAT?? Leaving me there was just cruel, seriously.
And once again and always, now I wait. *sighs*
And this author has killed me dead with that damn ending! I'm marking it an evil cliffhanger (which, admittedly she doesn't do hardly ever) because what WHAT?? Leaving me there was just cruel, seriously.
And once again and always, now I wait. *sighs*
April 9, 2019
Someone said they're insanely excited for this book. Check! Just waiting for it to arrive in my account/Kindle. My only real disappointment is the cover, as of Feb 2019. Lots of little things wrong. But anywho, I've been re-reading BDB and MLM (easily my 5th or 6th time) :) And the audio books for the series have all been pretty great too.
June 22, 2019
So freaking good.
February 22, 2019
This was my favorite book in the series so far! It had a lot of action but also character and relationship building. I especially felt like I learned more about Ryder. I loved the slow build up of Kai and Ryder's relationship and the shape it is taking. And, of course, there were lots of new amazing monsters. The overall story arc took some interesting twists and turns. I can't wait to see where it leads, especially with the new element introduced at the end. My one little complaint - not enough Newt. Although, can we ever have enough Newt?
February 18, 2019
Jacked Cat Jive is fantasy at its best
I have been eagerly awaiting Book 3 in the Kai Gracen series, since Book 2 was released. And HOLY CRAP, my excitement was not misplaced. I am not going to put some huge synopsis here. The basics are all in the blurb. If you’re reading JCJ, you’ve probably already read the other two. If you haven’t, DO IT! You will not regret it. And I hate it when people put spoilers in their reviews, so I’m going to try and tread carefully.
First, Rhys Ford has crafted a post-Merge world that is at once recognizable and fantastic. The way she paints a scene plops you right down in these places, seeing through Kai’s eyes, smelling what he smells, tasting what he tastes. The fight scenes are believable and so much fun to read. The character interaction is just riveting. We even get to meet more of those insane monsters that are so prevalent in Kai's world.
So, what can I say without spoilers? Let’s see…Kai Gracen is—hands down—one of my favorite characters ever. His anger and snark carefully protect that part of him that just HAS to do the right thing – well, at least Kai’s version of the right thing. It's so easy to fall in love with Kai, because he should be broken, and instead all the broken pieces make up this crazy, beautiful, calloused and scarred character.
Kai allows (Yes, allows. No matter what that arrogant sidhe might think, NO ONE tells Kai what to do) Ryder to follow him on another adventure, with horrible, hysterical and surprising results. Cari is a bad-ass, and I really hope we continue to see her in the series. Dempsey is still just a bitter, cranky old man, but he raised Kai, so he can’t be all bad…maybe…mostly. It’s a good thing Ryder isn’t much like the rest of his family, because those people are certifiable. As usual, Ford has offered us a colorful cast of characters who are so real, they could leap off the page and demand you believe they are real. The detail in which she goes, on even minor characters, really brings the book to life. Also, I love the way she weaves a multi-cultural and diverse tapestry, without making it a thing. People are just who they are. And it works.
If this is the first series by Rhys Ford that you’ve read, I highly recommend her others as well. Her books offer everything from cops and rock stars, to tattoo artists, ghost hunters, mostly-reformed thieves and private detectives, with the rich in tradition, colorful neighborhoods and peoples you’ll find in many U.S. cities.
Also, I challenge you to try and read all her series without a serious food craving afterward. This was actually the first that DIDN’T leave me looking up restaurants online afterward. It did, however, leave me with a burning desire to buy myself a Triumph and go riding through San Diego into Balboa Park, at least to make sure the Merge hasn’t started, and the pandas are still in the zoo.
I give Jacked Cat Jive 5 extremely well-deserved stars. And basically, any book by Ford that ends with “Well, f***,” is going to leave me impatient to see what happens next.
I have been eagerly awaiting Book 3 in the Kai Gracen series, since Book 2 was released. And HOLY CRAP, my excitement was not misplaced. I am not going to put some huge synopsis here. The basics are all in the blurb. If you’re reading JCJ, you’ve probably already read the other two. If you haven’t, DO IT! You will not regret it. And I hate it when people put spoilers in their reviews, so I’m going to try and tread carefully.
First, Rhys Ford has crafted a post-Merge world that is at once recognizable and fantastic. The way she paints a scene plops you right down in these places, seeing through Kai’s eyes, smelling what he smells, tasting what he tastes. The fight scenes are believable and so much fun to read. The character interaction is just riveting. We even get to meet more of those insane monsters that are so prevalent in Kai's world.
So, what can I say without spoilers? Let’s see…Kai Gracen is—hands down—one of my favorite characters ever. His anger and snark carefully protect that part of him that just HAS to do the right thing – well, at least Kai’s version of the right thing. It's so easy to fall in love with Kai, because he should be broken, and instead all the broken pieces make up this crazy, beautiful, calloused and scarred character.
Kai allows (Yes, allows. No matter what that arrogant sidhe might think, NO ONE tells Kai what to do) Ryder to follow him on another adventure, with horrible, hysterical and surprising results. Cari is a bad-ass, and I really hope we continue to see her in the series. Dempsey is still just a bitter, cranky old man, but he raised Kai, so he can’t be all bad…maybe…mostly. It’s a good thing Ryder isn’t much like the rest of his family, because those people are certifiable. As usual, Ford has offered us a colorful cast of characters who are so real, they could leap off the page and demand you believe they are real. The detail in which she goes, on even minor characters, really brings the book to life. Also, I love the way she weaves a multi-cultural and diverse tapestry, without making it a thing. People are just who they are. And it works.
If this is the first series by Rhys Ford that you’ve read, I highly recommend her others as well. Her books offer everything from cops and rock stars, to tattoo artists, ghost hunters, mostly-reformed thieves and private detectives, with the rich in tradition, colorful neighborhoods and peoples you’ll find in many U.S. cities.
Also, I challenge you to try and read all her series without a serious food craving afterward. This was actually the first that DIDN’T leave me looking up restaurants online afterward. It did, however, leave me with a burning desire to buy myself a Triumph and go riding through San Diego into Balboa Park, at least to make sure the Merge hasn’t started, and the pandas are still in the zoo.
I give Jacked Cat Jive 5 extremely well-deserved stars. And basically, any book by Ford that ends with “Well, f***,” is going to leave me impatient to see what happens next.
March 15, 2019
This was probably my most anticipated new release of 2019. I loved the first two books in this series and re-read them prior to delving into this one. Turns out I really didn't need to because the first half of this book was a heavy re-telling of the previous plot/story which I found to be tediously frustrating. But I think my biggest issue this installment is the lack of progression. In many ways, this book is a rehash of the second book -- there are tonnes of similarities and not a whole lot of closure when it comes to some of the cliff-hanger styled mysteries that were introduced in the earlier books. We still do not know much about Ryder's sister or the purpose of the dragon's scale inserted into Kai's skin? There were also strange inconsistencies -- in earlier books, the iron in Kai's skin meant that he did not heal as quickly as Ryder but suddenly in this book, his healing is substantially more accelerated. Also, Ryder became a jumble of inconsistencies in this book -- a caricature due to repetition and the lack of progression in the plot -- and in particularly in Ryder/Kai's relationship. This is more of a bromance than it is a romance. I understand Kai's reluctance to give in to his attraction but I also feel like this was drawn-out and overplayed way too much. I found myself frustrated and bored through most of it -- and while I enjoyed the fast-paced drama caused by the grotesque and magical creatures in the first and second books -- this time around it felt a little too predictable and exhausting. You just knew when they were heading out that there were going to be black dogs, evil things and some kind of betrayal -- the uncanny bad timing of the Unsidhe elves and how they are always so weird and mysterious when they show up -- which was frustrating because this unnecessary drama very much overshadowed the thing I was looking forward to the most -- PROGRESSION. I was quite disappointed with this book. For some reason I was under the impression that this was a trilogy -- and this was going to be the final book in the series. And while I am grateful that I do not have to say goodbye to Kai and Ryder quite so soon -- I definitely wanted more. Another reason for the lower rating for this book (relative to earlier books) is the cliff-hanger(ish) ending. I'd rather read the next book in a series based on the merits of the story-telling and writing -- and not because of a lack of closure at the end of the book. The writing and story-telling are very strong -- I really enjoy this author's work -- so the cliff-hangers are really unnecessary and just add to the reader's frustration ...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2019
3.5🌠 I love this series, really I do. Mostly for the characters themselves and not necessarily each individual books story, which are always interesting, but certainly not always satisfying. But this slow relationship pacing has got to pick up. 3 books and we get a kiss for Ryder and Kai being hot for two other Sidhe. I imagine we will have to wait another two to three years for the next book too, and nothing much will happen. So please either pick up the pace on this storyline or spend less time between books, because while the Sidhe may live a 1000 years or more the readers of this series won't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2019
Love how Rhys is developing more of this world and it's characters, particularly Kai; and Dempsey-the Grinch-actually grows a heart, or more like gives us a glimpse to it. This one like the previous one gave my heart a beating and all the feels. It was wonderful-and eventhough it's driving me crazy w/all the tension-the relationship between Kai and Ryder made such sweet progress. As always this was an action packed, snarky, dark, and engaging read from beginning to end. Thanks to Rhys for this giveaway.
May 10, 2020
0.5 stars off for endless monologues that almost overtook the story.
Rounding up to 5 stars for the sheer awesomeness and kick-assery in the rest of the book. I even came to love a certain backstabbing character. Hope to see the whole band back together in book 4!
Rounding up to 5 stars for the sheer awesomeness and kick-assery in the rest of the book. I even came to love a certain backstabbing character. Hope to see the whole band back together in book 4!
March 5, 2019
Jacked Cat Jive is the third book in the Kai Gracen series. It stars Stalker Kai Gracen, a human raised elfin, and Ryder, a Sidhe Lord of San Diego’s Southern Rise Court. The story is told in first person from Kai’s pov.
February 25, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words review
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-g5o
From that review: In a series that by turns has been dark, gritty, wondrous, and wild in the previous stories, Jacked Cat Jive has me gobsmacked with it's , dare I say it, jacked up gloriously layered plot, the multiple story threads running and twisting and turning each pulling your attention this way and that, while the author carefully weaves a vivid complicated tapestry that will pull them all back together into a stunning whole.
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-g5o
From that review: In a series that by turns has been dark, gritty, wondrous, and wild in the previous stories, Jacked Cat Jive has me gobsmacked with it's , dare I say it, jacked up gloriously layered plot, the multiple story threads running and twisting and turning each pulling your attention this way and that, while the author carefully weaves a vivid complicated tapestry that will pull them all back together into a stunning whole.
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
March 8, 2019
I found it hard to believe that it has been over two years since the release of book two, ‘Mad Lizard Mambo’, as that story is still so fresh in my mind. ‘Jacked Cat Jive’ promised more excitement, definitely more Sidhe politics and intrigue, and hopefully a tiny amount of more intimacy between Kai and Ryder. I love romance, but this oh-so-gradual warming from enemies to friends to even admitting attraction keeps me coming back for more, even as the action and adventure plus mystery and suspense have me on the edge of my seat from the very first sentence.
“If you remember, I told you I’d kill you if ever you began to abuse your power like your grandmother does,” I pointed out. “But I’m willing to bend that to kill for you to protect your people.” His grin was a sensual tease and filled with sweaty promises. “That is the most romantic thing you’ve ever said to me.”
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
“If you remember, I told you I’d kill you if ever you began to abuse your power like your grandmother does,” I pointed out. “But I’m willing to bend that to kill for you to protect your people.” His grin was a sensual tease and filled with sweaty promises. “That is the most romantic thing you’ve ever said to me.”
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
March 15, 2019
4.25 stars
You know how you leave a placer that says "review to come later", and you just don't feel like reviewing it? Even though you really liked it? Yeah, that. Instead I'm just going to jot down a few thoughts.
A great addition to the series, a bit too much tell and not enough show in places, an issue with "if they had rifles all along, why the hell did they wait so long to drag them out?", and another issue with "slayers who wait to be shot at before shooting back, WTF?". I don't mind the snail's pace love story, but I do mind how Kai keeps considering what it would be like be with others. So, little things prevented this story from hitting five stars.
Still a very strong 4.25 stars and I'm looking forward to the next one.
You know how you leave a placer that says "review to come later", and you just don't feel like reviewing it? Even though you really liked it? Yeah, that. Instead I'm just going to jot down a few thoughts.
A great addition to the series, a bit too much tell and not enough show in places, an issue with "if they had rifles all along, why the hell did they wait so long to drag them out?", and another issue with "slayers who wait to be shot at before shooting back, WTF?". I don't mind the snail's pace love story, but I do mind how Kai keeps considering what it would be like be with others. So, little things prevented this story from hitting five stars.
Still a very strong 4.25 stars and I'm looking forward to the next one.
April 5, 2019
I love this world and I love Kai, prickly bits and all. This book is another action packed adventure with new creatures and foes. It tugged at my heart strings while also making me laugh with its dry wit.
While the book is complete in itself, the ending left me eagerly awaiting the next book!
While the book is complete in itself, the ending left me eagerly awaiting the next book!
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