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Amber Fang #2
Amber Fang: Betrayal
For Amber Fang, life used to be simple: study library science by day, read by night and, when she got hungry, enjoy an ethical meal straight from the jugular. Her mother taught her well. It's just good manners for vampires to eat only murderers.
But now her mom has vanished, and Amber is alone. Her contract work as an assassin has been terminated. But the secret organization ZARC is still trying to hunt her down, using algorithms, drones and a murderess with metal hands.
Through the dark web Amber learns that her long-lost mother has been "disappeared" to a secret compound in Antarctica. When Amber arrives and pries open a door to investigate, what she discovers shocks her to the core. And it will change her life forever. If she survives.
But now her mom has vanished, and Amber is alone. Her contract work as an assassin has been terminated. But the secret organization ZARC is still trying to hunt her down, using algorithms, drones and a murderess with metal hands.
Through the dark web Amber learns that her long-lost mother has been "disappeared" to a secret compound in Antarctica. When Amber arrives and pries open a door to investigate, what she discovers shocks her to the core. And it will change her life forever. If she survives.
232 pages, Paperback
Published September 3, 2019
45 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Slade
74 books523 followersArthur Slade was raised in the Cypress Hills of southwest Saskatchewan and began writing at an early age. He is the author of the bestselling The Hunchback Assignments series of books, Dust (which won the Governor General's award), Tribes and Jolted. He lives in Saskatoon, Canada (which really is a real place). Join his creative & somewhat clever newsletter at: what a zany newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 12, 2020
Today's lesson of the day: A lot can happen in the span of 10 pages.
To start off, I think this book was a definite improvement from the first. There was a lot more substance and there was a much clearer goal. This book sets the tone for a trilogy but turns out we're already two-thirds through.
The plus for this book will always be the humor. It is so funny. I was reading this late last night and was so scared of waking up the house because that is how hard I laughed. I'd say I have a favorite line and would quote it, but then I'd end up quoting the whole book. I'll admit some of the lines are a little cheesy and very dry, but I think her humor is warranted and is super funny.
Once again, the issue is really the plot, which seems so underdeveloped. Things happened and they happened pretty fast. I think the lack of development in the plot was primarily because things jumped from one event to the next without much of an interlude. To an extent, this book is like the script of a movie. Meaty big action scenes and little transitional interludes.
I think Slade has finally brought together the background and the full extent of the world-building. I don't see any big new revelations regarding things we know popping up in the final book. I think Slade did a good job of giving me all the info I needed in the two books and in such a manner that it wasn't like I was reading an encyclopedia. BUT, the world-building was a little sparse and a little juvenile. It was very much like a sorta good guy, a bad guy, and problematic species. Also, he brought in this Deux ex Machina from basically NOWHERE. So more context, especially from the first book would have been nice.
I also want to mention that A LOT OF PEOPLE DIED. And that's totally fine in a book, but everyone was so nonchalant about the deaths. All the MC said she was going to do was just try to learn more about them post-living and she got a little teary-eyed. But there was no weight to any of the deaths. There was no reason for the death or developments from the deaths. The deaths of even important characters were just shelved as random deaths.
Overall, I've got the same complaints but also the same likes as last time. (if that makes sense). I'm hoping the third book will be a little better, but no bets except for the fact that it will be MAD FUNNY.
To start off, I think this book was a definite improvement from the first. There was a lot more substance and there was a much clearer goal. This book sets the tone for a trilogy but turns out we're already two-thirds through.
The plus for this book will always be the humor. It is so funny. I was reading this late last night and was so scared of waking up the house because that is how hard I laughed. I'd say I have a favorite line and would quote it, but then I'd end up quoting the whole book. I'll admit some of the lines are a little cheesy and very dry, but I think her humor is warranted and is super funny.
Once again, the issue is really the plot, which seems so underdeveloped. Things happened and they happened pretty fast. I think the lack of development in the plot was primarily because things jumped from one event to the next without much of an interlude. To an extent, this book is like the script of a movie. Meaty big action scenes and little transitional interludes.
I think Slade has finally brought together the background and the full extent of the world-building. I don't see any big new revelations regarding things we know popping up in the final book. I think Slade did a good job of giving me all the info I needed in the two books and in such a manner that it wasn't like I was reading an encyclopedia. BUT, the world-building was a little sparse and a little juvenile. It was very much like a sorta good guy, a bad guy, and problematic species. Also, he brought in this Deux ex Machina from basically NOWHERE. So more context, especially from the first book would have been nice.
I also want to mention that A LOT OF PEOPLE DIED. And that's totally fine in a book, but everyone was so nonchalant about the deaths. All the MC said she was going to do was just try to learn more about them post-living and she got a little teary-eyed. But there was no weight to any of the deaths. There was no reason for the death or developments from the deaths. The deaths of even important characters were just shelved as random deaths.
Overall, I've got the same complaints but also the same likes as last time. (if that makes sense). I'm hoping the third book will be a little better, but no bets except for the fact that it will be MAD FUNNY.
November 25, 2017
There are few contemporary Canadian authors who are always on my must read list; Arthur Slade, Cecil Castellucci, and Kenneth Oppel. So when a new book by Slade comes out it immediately jumps to the top of my reading pile. Since I was captivated by Dust, back in 2002 I have read or reread one of his books over 30 times. And this series if fun, and whimsical, humorous and a lot of action all mixed up in one. In my review of book 1 I stated that this series "reads like a cross between the TV series Dexter with Angel except the lead is a woman, and an aspiring librarian at that. Or a mash up of Tom Clancy, Anne Rice but with more than a little humour smattered in." And after book two I would say even more so. Though maybe a dash of Spider Robinson thrown in this time just to mix it up.
This book, and this series, has a little something for every reader. You have a secret government organization, that has been nearly wiped out. The lead character is a young beautiful vampire, but her mother raised her with a conscience (she only hunts murders and only if they have no remorse), you have academia. There is also a billionaire trying to create super soldiers. And a secret society of librarians around the world who are aware of the government organization, Aware of Amber and her Library studies, and aware of the conflict currently going on. But they want to stay impartial and just document.
Amber Fang has been hunting, but not for her next meal. She is trying to find her mother. He mother has been missing for a while now, and has become Amber's first priority. But things do not always go as expected.
In a novel that starts in Antarctica. And journeys around the globe. Amber Fang has a revelation that will change her world forever. But Sometimes it is worse when you find something you were not even aware you were looking for, and then have it turn out to not be what you though.
But be warned this book ends with a huge cliff hanger! This book continues the wonderful Amber Fang series, vampire, assassin, librarian. Now amber has gone from being a girl just trying to finish grad school and find her next meal. To a woman of the world, seeking answers and battling bad guys from more than one side.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Arthur and his alter Ego Stephen Shea.
This book, and this series, has a little something for every reader. You have a secret government organization, that has been nearly wiped out. The lead character is a young beautiful vampire, but her mother raised her with a conscience (she only hunts murders and only if they have no remorse), you have academia. There is also a billionaire trying to create super soldiers. And a secret society of librarians around the world who are aware of the government organization, Aware of Amber and her Library studies, and aware of the conflict currently going on. But they want to stay impartial and just document.
Amber Fang has been hunting, but not for her next meal. She is trying to find her mother. He mother has been missing for a while now, and has become Amber's first priority. But things do not always go as expected.
In a novel that starts in Antarctica. And journeys around the globe. Amber Fang has a revelation that will change her world forever. But Sometimes it is worse when you find something you were not even aware you were looking for, and then have it turn out to not be what you though.
But be warned this book ends with a huge cliff hanger! This book continues the wonderful Amber Fang series, vampire, assassin, librarian. Now amber has gone from being a girl just trying to finish grad school and find her next meal. To a woman of the world, seeking answers and battling bad guys from more than one side.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Arthur and his alter Ego Stephen Shea.
December 21, 2023
Book 2 of this series goes full-speed from start to finish as Amber Fang's quest to find her mother continues. The humour is as great as ever as is the action and with even more craziness.
The League? Still around. ZARC? Still around. Yet another set of enemies? Definitely! A possible group of actual allies? Yes, absolutely.
This one really has everything. Amber travels around the world, even to Antarctica. There are cyborgs, murderous AI's, other vampires (who have way less of a moral compass than Amber), librarian ninjas...
Yes, it even has librarian ninjas. Seriously, this book is amazing.
The League? Still around. ZARC? Still around. Yet another set of enemies? Definitely! A possible group of actual allies? Yes, absolutely.
This one really has everything. Amber travels around the world, even to Antarctica. There are cyborgs, murderous AI's, other vampires (who have way less of a moral compass than Amber), librarian ninjas...
Yes, it even has librarian ninjas. Seriously, this book is amazing.
July 9, 2019
A really fun action-packed story about a milennial vampire that is trying to find an identity, her family and a place to finish her librarian degree.
November 27, 2017
Morally conscious, vampire-librarian Amber Fang is back trying to find her mom, digging up secrets on ZARC, and trying to stay alive in a battle against a band of vampires not so choosy about their human meals.
In this second installment of the Amber Fang series, Amber starts out in Antarctica searching for her long-lost mother. Right off the bat she runs into and battles a nasty iron-clawed enemy and discovers something interesting in her family tree before nearly freezing to death and miraculously being saved by Dermot and the League. Though her membership in the League is back and forth, Amber finds herself teaming with the secretive group to take out ZARC, hopefully find her mom, and take on a murderous band of vampires who want her ovaries. She and the League bounce all over the world in this story - from Antarctica, to Argentina, to England, to Texas, to Winnipeg, to Saskatoon (Slade's own stomping grounds), to the hinterlands of Saskatchewan, and finally to a military base in Alberta. Along the way, Dermot almost dies and Amber discovers a secret band of ninja librarians who help her escape death at the hands of a familial vampire and a bunch of vampire cronies. Phew! And those are just a few of the highlights.
As a cheerleader for Amber (you could say I'm a Fanger), I'd like to say that she wins some battles in this book, and I suppose she does come out on top in the end, but she sure gets the crap beat out of her a lot in this story. It makes for great but frustrating fight scenes. I really liked the ninja librarians and can't wait to see how they feature in the next story. The setup with ZARC and the ovary-seeking vampires left me excited for the next story too. The ending seemed a little abrupt but I still can't wait for book three.
This is another great story by Arthur Slade - it has action-adventure, suspense, mystery, a bit of romance, and not even a hint of boredom. Like the first book, it's a quick, fast-paced read that keeps you turning the pages with anticipation. Check it out!
In this second installment of the Amber Fang series, Amber starts out in Antarctica searching for her long-lost mother. Right off the bat she runs into and battles a nasty iron-clawed enemy and discovers something interesting in her family tree before nearly freezing to death and miraculously being saved by Dermot and the League. Though her membership in the League is back and forth, Amber finds herself teaming with the secretive group to take out ZARC, hopefully find her mom, and take on a murderous band of vampires who want her ovaries. She and the League bounce all over the world in this story - from Antarctica, to Argentina, to England, to Texas, to Winnipeg, to Saskatoon (Slade's own stomping grounds), to the hinterlands of Saskatchewan, and finally to a military base in Alberta. Along the way, Dermot almost dies and Amber discovers a secret band of ninja librarians who help her escape death at the hands of a familial vampire and a bunch of vampire cronies. Phew! And those are just a few of the highlights.
As a cheerleader for Amber (you could say I'm a Fanger), I'd like to say that she wins some battles in this book, and I suppose she does come out on top in the end, but she sure gets the crap beat out of her a lot in this story. It makes for great but frustrating fight scenes. I really liked the ninja librarians and can't wait to see how they feature in the next story. The setup with ZARC and the ovary-seeking vampires left me excited for the next story too. The ending seemed a little abrupt but I still can't wait for book three.
This is another great story by Arthur Slade - it has action-adventure, suspense, mystery, a bit of romance, and not even a hint of boredom. Like the first book, it's a quick, fast-paced read that keeps you turning the pages with anticipation. Check it out!
September 30, 2018
This was a superior sequel.
Having literally read Hunted yesterday, it was fresh in my mind and I was hoping for things to improve a notch for book 2. Arthur Slade never disappoints.
Still on the trail of her mother, Amber tracks her to Antarctica. And so begins an incredibly fast paced and fun story.
The Amber in this book has some great one liners, amusing anecdotes from her mother (as in book 1) and much more fighting experience. Her character has improved leaps and bounds (pun intended) and the overall feel of the book is much more polished. There are loads of literary and pop culture references embedded in the story, so quiz fans will be naming the book / film etc. There are new locales, including a library in my local city of Nottingham!
The new characters and inventions are a much bigger challenge, and the variety and details of backstory are much improved over the predecessor, making this a fantastic read from start to finish - I read this in a single sitting.
The ending was a typical lead into book 3, which I anticipate being every bit as good and this is recommended for people who like something different from their dose of vampire goodness.
Having literally read Hunted yesterday, it was fresh in my mind and I was hoping for things to improve a notch for book 2. Arthur Slade never disappoints.
Still on the trail of her mother, Amber tracks her to Antarctica. And so begins an incredibly fast paced and fun story.
The Amber in this book has some great one liners, amusing anecdotes from her mother (as in book 1) and much more fighting experience. Her character has improved leaps and bounds (pun intended) and the overall feel of the book is much more polished. There are loads of literary and pop culture references embedded in the story, so quiz fans will be naming the book / film etc. There are new locales, including a library in my local city of Nottingham!
The new characters and inventions are a much bigger challenge, and the variety and details of backstory are much improved over the predecessor, making this a fantastic read from start to finish - I read this in a single sitting.
The ending was a typical lead into book 3, which I anticipate being every bit as good and this is recommended for people who like something different from their dose of vampire goodness.
June 24, 2019
I received this book through Library Thing's Early Reviewers, and I was thrilled because I had read the first Amber Fang book and loved it, and I couldn't wait to dive in and read more about Amber's adventures.
This was a very fast read. So much happens in this book compared to the first, and there are so many twists and turns and unexpected elements that turn up! The story just flies along. I feel like we got to know Amber much more in this book. As she searches for her mother, and the truth of her own origins and background, we start to see that there is a huge world that Amber is a vital part of that she knew nothing about. We learn more about The League and their purpose, as well as the mysterious ZARC organization. We learn more about the sensitive and vulnerable side of Amber, but her sassy spirit still rings through, along with her determination and strength of will. She's smart, she loves books, she loves research and knowledge, and she has a kickass sense of humour. I thought I had grown tired of reading about vampires, but Amber takes an overdone theme and gives us something fresh and fun. I can't wait to see what Amber is going to do next!
This was a very fast read. So much happens in this book compared to the first, and there are so many twists and turns and unexpected elements that turn up! The story just flies along. I feel like we got to know Amber much more in this book. As she searches for her mother, and the truth of her own origins and background, we start to see that there is a huge world that Amber is a vital part of that she knew nothing about. We learn more about The League and their purpose, as well as the mysterious ZARC organization. We learn more about the sensitive and vulnerable side of Amber, but her sassy spirit still rings through, along with her determination and strength of will. She's smart, she loves books, she loves research and knowledge, and she has a kickass sense of humour. I thought I had grown tired of reading about vampires, but Amber takes an overdone theme and gives us something fresh and fun. I can't wait to see what Amber is going to do next!
November 30, 2017
"I received a free copy from the author. I had the option of reviewing or not."
Six months have passed since Amber Fang left the League.
She's hot on the trail of her missing Mom (2 years worth of missing) searching in blustery Antartica.
When her cell phone suddenly rings!
Then Amber finds the secret base. Who knows how long ago it was built.
Only, it belongs to Bad Guys who are more than eager to kill her.
There is more action going on in these scenes than what you'd find in a Bond film!
When the dust (frost) settles, Amber has new allies, to go with new enemies.
Throughout this adventure we find ourselves wondering who is who - and who can we trust?
Extremely powerful forces are locked in battle, and our favorite little Vampire may be strong - but will she be strong enough?
Physically? More important, Emotionally.
One thing happens repeatedly - she gets the Pez knocked of her.
Sure, people try to convince me that Arthur Slade is a nice, likable guy.
But he certainly seems to have it in for Vampires.
I can hardly wait to see what he does to her next!
Six months have passed since Amber Fang left the League.
She's hot on the trail of her missing Mom (2 years worth of missing) searching in blustery Antartica.
When her cell phone suddenly rings!
Then Amber finds the secret base. Who knows how long ago it was built.
Only, it belongs to Bad Guys who are more than eager to kill her.
There is more action going on in these scenes than what you'd find in a Bond film!
When the dust (frost) settles, Amber has new allies, to go with new enemies.
Throughout this adventure we find ourselves wondering who is who - and who can we trust?
Extremely powerful forces are locked in battle, and our favorite little Vampire may be strong - but will she be strong enough?
Physically? More important, Emotionally.
One thing happens repeatedly - she gets the Pez knocked of her.
Sure, people try to convince me that Arthur Slade is a nice, likable guy.
But he certainly seems to have it in for Vampires.
I can hardly wait to see what he does to her next!
November 21, 2017
Yay! Book 2 is finally released! I read it cover to cover the minute I downloaded it, everything else be damned - I've been waiting for this to be released and was DYING to read it! (Can you tell I'm excited?!)
Anyway, Arthur Slade's excellent writing is in evidence during this book as usual, helping to keep the reader hooked, and with some great new characters it's definitely full of action, adventure, lots of fighting and fun. The only downside (but not enough to lose a star - it's Amber Fang people!) is that it finishes on a huge cliff hanger and we have to wait until 2018 to find out what happens! Mr Slade you are a tease!!! But seriously, I highly recommend this book and the Amber Fang series, so if you haven't read it yet, what's stopping you?!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
Anyway, Arthur Slade's excellent writing is in evidence during this book as usual, helping to keep the reader hooked, and with some great new characters it's definitely full of action, adventure, lots of fighting and fun. The only downside (but not enough to lose a star - it's Amber Fang people!) is that it finishes on a huge cliff hanger and we have to wait until 2018 to find out what happens! Mr Slade you are a tease!!! But seriously, I highly recommend this book and the Amber Fang series, so if you haven't read it yet, what's stopping you?!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
November 12, 2019
Finished this so long ago not sure when I actually did finish it. I know it couldn't have taken me too long because they're not incredibly long. I won this book from another site and so I read the first book and enjoyed it enough to look forward to receiving this book. And I liked it...but I was so mad that it ENDED SO ABRUPTLY. And of course it ended on a cliff-hanger. Because why not. Everything seems to be just okay. Action happens, the plot moves along, and I get all the characters and their motivations, especially Amber, but it just ends up being an okay book. I'll read the next one but it's not the most fantastic story I've ever gotten my hands on.
November 24, 2017
This is the second Amber Fang book I've read and would strongly suggest you read book 1 first. You'll have a much clearer understanding of the book and all the characters. Amber's weird sense of humor and her relationship with Dermot are more fully explored in book 1 so it helps get you through the more involved second book. These are fun reads even for me and this is not my usual genre. Unfortunately for me, I have to wait until February for book 3. Not fair, Mr. Slade. Start writing faster!!!!
December 14, 2017
Yet another great instalment in the Amber Fang series by Arthur Slade! Amber is a 20-something vampire (really in her 20s, unlike most vampires we read about), and her naïveté gets her into a lot of trouble. That and her headstrong attitude coupled with vampire powers that make her feel invincible. It sounds terrible to say, but it's a lot of fun to watch her get into trouble, and see how she gets out of trouble! This book left a cliffhanger, so obviously I'll be reading the third book in the series as soon as it comes out.
December 7, 2017
She has a terribly “nice” family
The well-written and fast paced story contains not only humor it's
also rich in action.
Who says the life of a librarian is dull has never got to know
Amber Fang.
There are still sparks between Amber and Durmont and I hope they'll
get their HEA in the next one of this series.
So go ahead, grab a cup of coffee, grab this book and let it give
You a really great reading time.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book for a
honest review.
December 27, 2017
Long awaited sequel
When asked what I was reading I had to explain that Amber isn't the typical vampire that permeates the current pop culture. She doesn't dress trashy and hiss randomly, nor does she sparkle in the sunlight. She's a librarian, and is particular about her feeding habits.
Amber is searching for her mother, along the way uncovering several competing organizations who either use or want to use vampires for nefarious purposes.
When asked what I was reading I had to explain that Amber isn't the typical vampire that permeates the current pop culture. She doesn't dress trashy and hiss randomly, nor does she sparkle in the sunlight. She's a librarian, and is particular about her feeding habits.
Amber is searching for her mother, along the way uncovering several competing organizations who either use or want to use vampires for nefarious purposes.
December 8, 2017
Book 2 continues the story of Amber Fang, right where book 1 ended. The story is captivating and thrilling and grabs you from the start. I really enjoy this authors writing and his characters and world building are on point. This is not your typical vampire book and I love that - it is new and refreshing. I look forward to more from this Author.
June 17, 2019
The title says it all! At the end of the book I was stunned it was ending right there! Amber is betrayed! I don’t want to give any spoilers away but I definitely want to know what’s going to happen in book 3! I like the narrator; she has a lot of enthusiasm and energy for reading the story. All I can say is the plot thickens and enjoy! (I listened to the book on audible).
April 20, 2020
Although she is no longer working for the League, Amber has not given up her search for her mother. Using the dark web, she tracks down a lead in Antartica and discovers a huge surprise. I am thoroughly enjoying this series. I love the sense of humor and the biting sarcasm of Amber, and the all-business Dermot makes a great foil. Can't wait to read #3!
March 2, 2023
I am finding it harder and harder to empathise with Amber. I get that she wants to find her mother, I really do, but her habit of doing the exact opposite of what she is told to do has caused good people to lose their lives. It beats me why Dermot is willing to use his quickly evaporating resources to continue helping her. She will be the death of him.
November 25, 2017
I loved the way this book grabbed me by the throat and would not let go until the end, treating me like i was on a rollercoaster of a book, leaving me breathless and wanting more.
Great book, great fun. I would say however you should read book 1 first, it makes it make more sense.
Great book, great fun. I would say however you should read book 1 first, it makes it make more sense.
December 1, 2017
This is an addicting series that is well-written and the characters are developed. These shorts are engaging and entertaining. I enjoyed reading this series. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review
December 4, 2017
The continuing saga of amber fang
Amber goes up against her older sister,and others who want her for reasons I won't go into here.there's ninja librarians too!better than the first one to me.read both of them together in two days.
Amber goes up against her older sister,and others who want her for reasons I won't go into here.there's ninja librarians too!better than the first one to me.read both of them together in two days.
March 22, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I had a hard time putting it down. It kept you wanting more and see where the story was going to lead you. I cant wait to start the next one to see where Amber and Dermot are going to go personally and professionally. What is going to happen to Amber's mom.
August 8, 2019
Vampires, cyborgs, action. They seem like they would be the perfect combination. Unfortunately, the writing lacked substance. Admittedly, I hadn’t read the first book in this series, but I’m not sure that would’ve changed my mind.
October 8, 2019
Really love this series! Amber Fang is the perfect snarky character. She's definitely not your average everyday vampire librarian assassin like you'd meet on the street. Very action packed, entertaining series. Looking forward to the next in the series.
November 24, 2017
Continuing the story of Amber in this book. Loads of action and humor in this sequel.
Well worth a read.
Well worth a read.
December 7, 2017
An excellent read. Good humor, great action...just not thrilled at the ending.
February 4, 2018
I love this series. The only thing I hate about this book is that it's a cliff hanger! I hate that! On to book 3!
February 18, 2018
A great second book in this amazing series. A vampire for a librarian makes for interesting reading. Had to finish as soon as possible to find out what happens at the end.
October 27, 2018
Such a fun vampire series! Amber is a vampire with a conscience and only feeds on killers with no remorse. And in search of her mother who taught her to be ethical in her feeding.
February 25, 2019
Slightly better than the first but going no-where fast. I had to read it because I paid for it.
But here endith this saga for me.
But here endith this saga for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews