What do you think?
Rate this book
Burning Girl #3
Blood Victory
On a cross-country journey to hell, fear is the engine and vengeance is the destination as Christopher Rice’s Amazon Charts bestselling series continues.
As the test subject of an experimental drug, Charlotte Rowe was infused with extraordinary powers. As the secret weapon of a mysterious consortium, she baits evil predators and stops them in their tracks. But it takes more than fear to trigger what’s coursing through Charlotte’s blood. She needs to be terrorized. Serial killer Cyrus Mattingly is up to the task.
Cyrus is a long-haul truck driver, and his cargo bay is a gallery of horrors on wheels. To stop his bloodshed, Charlotte will become his next victim, reining in her powers so she can face each of his evils in turn.
As much as they know about Cyrus—his method of selecting victims, his prolonged rituals—there is something they don’t. What happens on the dark and lonely highways is only the journey. It’s the destination that’s truly depraved. Before she can unleash vengeance on a scale this killer has never seen, Charlotte and her team will have to go the distance into hell.
As the test subject of an experimental drug, Charlotte Rowe was infused with extraordinary powers. As the secret weapon of a mysterious consortium, she baits evil predators and stops them in their tracks. But it takes more than fear to trigger what’s coursing through Charlotte’s blood. She needs to be terrorized. Serial killer Cyrus Mattingly is up to the task.
Cyrus is a long-haul truck driver, and his cargo bay is a gallery of horrors on wheels. To stop his bloodshed, Charlotte will become his next victim, reining in her powers so she can face each of his evils in turn.
As much as they know about Cyrus—his method of selecting victims, his prolonged rituals—there is something they don’t. What happens on the dark and lonely highways is only the journey. It’s the destination that’s truly depraved. Before she can unleash vengeance on a scale this killer has never seen, Charlotte and her team will have to go the distance into hell.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2020
469 people are currently reading
2039 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Rice
37 books2,585 followersChristopher Rice is the recipient of the Lambda Literary Award and is the Amazon Charts and New York Times bestselling author of A Density of Souls; Bone Music, Blood Echo, and Blood Victory in the Burning Girl series; and Bram Stoker Award finalists The Heavens Rise and The Vines. An executive producer for television, Christopher also penned the novels Ramses the Damned: The Passion of Cleopatra and Ramses The Damned: The Reign of Osiri with his late mother Anne Rice. Together with his best friend and producing partner, New York Times bestselling novelist Eric Shaw Quinn, Christopher runs the production company Dinner Partners. Among other projects, they produce the podcast and video network TDPS, which can be found at www.TheDinnerPartyShow.com. He lives in West Hollywood, California, and writes tales of romance between men under the pseudonym C. Travis Rice. Visit him at www.christopherricebooks.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
June 27, 2020
I don't know how he does it, but Chris Rice just keeps getting better with each Burning Girl novel. In Bone Music, we're introduced to Charlotte, or Charley, and she becomes the burning girl. In Blood Echo, we get a little more background on the characters, are introduced to new characters, and pretty much set up what happens next. In this latest installment, there is so much action, tension, and overall fast pacing that you better buckle up, because it doesn't let up until the very end.
Technically Blood Victory can be read as a standalone, but I feel like you'd be missing so much crucial background information that spans the course of the three books by skipping ahead. Part of the reason I keep coming back to these books is my fondness and connection to the characters, primary and secondary alike, and you'd really be doing yourself a disservice by missing out on this portion. If you enjoy science fiction thrillers where the science part feels like it could be 99.9% real, you should jump onto the hype train and join the Burning Girl fan club. As always, these books contain graphic violence and disturbing thematic elements, so reader discretion is advised.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
Technically Blood Victory can be read as a standalone, but I feel like you'd be missing so much crucial background information that spans the course of the three books by skipping ahead. Part of the reason I keep coming back to these books is my fondness and connection to the characters, primary and secondary alike, and you'd really be doing yourself a disservice by missing out on this portion. If you enjoy science fiction thrillers where the science part feels like it could be 99.9% real, you should jump onto the hype train and join the Burning Girl fan club. As always, these books contain graphic violence and disturbing thematic elements, so reader discretion is advised.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
May 4, 2021
This third book in the Burning Girl series filled in some of the blanks from the first two books. It was not my favorite as it was kind of sadistic. Although it's the last in the series, there's not a tidy ending. I enjoyed the second book most.
August 23, 2020
4.5 stars
So happy to report that this third book in Christopher Rice's Burning Girl series is another packed with adventure and a highly addictive page turner.
Charley Rowe is back, once again infused with super powers due to an experimental drug, and on the hunt for serial killers. This time her target is Cyrus Mattingly, who not only is a murderer but also seems to be part of something even more evil and heinous.
Directed by the consortium, a small group of billionaires looking to cash in on the drug and its possible implications, they direct and try to control Charley and her boyfriend's actions. They encourage Charley to trigger, monitoring her constantly, so that the drug will generate the super human strength that turns Charley into an indestructible force. She is their test rat, the only person so far that the drug has not killed. Charley has her own demons that chase her and as the series progresses we learn more about her and the people who surround her.
Charley allows herself to be captured by this heinous man who carries out his tortures in his tractor trailer cab. It's hair raising and gruesome the things that this monster has done, and how he has acquired his victims.
But there is something else that Charley stumbles onto, something even more diabolical, malevolent, and wicked. Will Charley be able to stop the evil that surrounds Cyrus Mattingly or will this be the time she is unable to help those in peril?
Exciting, scary, gruesome,and horrifying are the events in this book. However, if you enjoy a tightly told story that doesn't let up on the tension and has crushing details, this is a book and a series to indulge in. Mr Rice has once again captured the essence of evil and sent the heroic Charley in pursuit of justice and the end of perversity.
Thank you to Christopher Rice, Thomas and Mercer, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book due out August 18, 2020.
So happy to report that this third book in Christopher Rice's Burning Girl series is another packed with adventure and a highly addictive page turner.
Charley Rowe is back, once again infused with super powers due to an experimental drug, and on the hunt for serial killers. This time her target is Cyrus Mattingly, who not only is a murderer but also seems to be part of something even more evil and heinous.
Directed by the consortium, a small group of billionaires looking to cash in on the drug and its possible implications, they direct and try to control Charley and her boyfriend's actions. They encourage Charley to trigger, monitoring her constantly, so that the drug will generate the super human strength that turns Charley into an indestructible force. She is their test rat, the only person so far that the drug has not killed. Charley has her own demons that chase her and as the series progresses we learn more about her and the people who surround her.
Charley allows herself to be captured by this heinous man who carries out his tortures in his tractor trailer cab. It's hair raising and gruesome the things that this monster has done, and how he has acquired his victims.
But there is something else that Charley stumbles onto, something even more diabolical, malevolent, and wicked. Will Charley be able to stop the evil that surrounds Cyrus Mattingly or will this be the time she is unable to help those in peril?
Exciting, scary, gruesome,and horrifying are the events in this book. However, if you enjoy a tightly told story that doesn't let up on the tension and has crushing details, this is a book and a series to indulge in. Mr Rice has once again captured the essence of evil and sent the heroic Charley in pursuit of justice and the end of perversity.
Thank you to Christopher Rice, Thomas and Mercer, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book due out August 18, 2020.
March 20, 2020
One of my favorite times of the year is when Christopher Rice novels are ready for reviewing. I love The Burning Girl series so much and am always impatiently waiting for a new one to pop up.
Blood Victory
will be released later this summer and it's safe to say that this series is well on it's way for a successful tenure.
With Rice's previous release, Blood Echo, we saw a transitional time for our serial killing, drug enhanced superhero Charlotte. I wondered where the series would go as we ventured on to a formalized and powerful team, led by Cole and secretly having research provided by Noah. Blood Victory starts right off right after the events from Blood Echo—Charlotte, Luke, Cole, and now Noah are teaming up to not only test the power of Zypraxon (the drug that gives Charlotte superhuman strength and healing), but to also take down notorious serial killers around the country. The team focuses on Cyrus Mattingly—a seemingly dorky and nervous man who “gets his rocks off” on preying on women who are combative towards him. As the plan is in motion, the team is ill prepared for what seemed like an easy operation. This book is the most fast-paced in the trilogy and can easily be read in one sitting (like I did on the plane)!
With Rice's previous release, Blood Echo, we saw a transitional time for our serial killing, drug enhanced superhero Charlotte. I wondered where the series would go as we ventured on to a formalized and powerful team, led by Cole and secretly having research provided by Noah. Blood Victory starts right off right after the events from Blood Echo—Charlotte, Luke, Cole, and now Noah are teaming up to not only test the power of Zypraxon (the drug that gives Charlotte superhuman strength and healing), but to also take down notorious serial killers around the country. The team focuses on Cyrus Mattingly—a seemingly dorky and nervous man who “gets his rocks off” on preying on women who are combative towards him. As the plan is in motion, the team is ill prepared for what seemed like an easy operation. This book is the most fast-paced in the trilogy and can easily be read in one sitting (like I did on the plane)!
October 23, 2020
If you've not read the Burning Girl trilogy I highly recommend that you do. This is an amazing trilogy and I was hooked from book one. Christopher Rice is an amazing storyteller.
June 30, 2020
The third installment of the Burning Girl series and it's good - but dark and grisly like the other two! The same characters are back and and the mix of interactions is interesting - different allegiances and different agendas. Charley and Luke are in pursuit of a serial killer who chooses his victims in a particular way - women who speak up. There is a great deal of action and tension as the story progresses. The drug Zypraxon, developed by Noah, with its special characteristics is still a focus. I'm looking forward to another installment. Christopher Rice gets better and better!
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer through Netgalley for an advance copy.
August 19, 2020
Blood Victory is the third book in the Burning Girl series - I’m not sure if it’s meant to be a trilogy and that’s it, or if Charlotte and Luke will have further adventures using her drug-induced superpowers to trap serial killers. You definitely need to have read the previous books to understand everything going on here. Unfortunately I enjoyed Bone Music the most, was very disappointed by Blood Echo, and was a bit “meh” about this one - but I am clearly in the minority as it has lots of high-star reviews so maybe it’s just me.
Six months after rescuing Luke from the terrorists who tortured and nearly killed him, Charley is ready to undertake another mission. Supervised once more by conflicted billionaire Cole Grayson, this time Luke is working with her, and had training to make him a near super-soldier. His brother Bailey is also working for Cole and has identified a trucker who’s been buying large quantities of the kinds of chemicals only people trying to dissolve bodies use, so Charley goes undercover as a potential victim. Needing to find his kill site in case any other women are being held captive, she must submit to the terror of capture to trigger the Zypraxon in her blood which will give her the strength to take him down; luckily Cyrus has perfected the art of terror with some truly horrible engineering - has Charley finally met her match?
So my problem with the last book was that while there were super-exciting action sections, there were too many long winded talking parts that slowed the pace right down. This one had the same issues - a slow start, then it finally got going, then stopped as we jumped back fifty years to read about the killer’s mother. Don’t get me wrong, I like to know the baddie’s backstory but this one was particularly banal. Then there are endless scenes of Cole-Noah angst where we have to work out whether either of them can be trusted. I did like Zoey’s character but spent the second half of the book stressed about poor Boris, her cat - spoiler alert, he’s fine.
I did like this one a bit better, hence 3 stars - I certainly got through it quicker as I was intrigued by exactly what Cyrus had planned for his “seedling”, and couldn’t wait for Charley to trigger and inflict her righteous vengeance. The relationship between Charley and Luke is refreshingly solid, and they are both likeable characters without the self-pity or self-doubt that often plague young adult heroes. The writing is fluid although there were various references I didn’t understand - it would’ve been preferable if the glossary at the end were at the beginning instead, especially for readers new to the series.
Overall, this is an original series with intriguing plots and characters, a mix of thriller, horror and supernatural elements, and some very unpleasant baddies getting what they deserve, but let down by pacing and secondary character interactions that really aren’t all that interesting. I haven’t decided whether I will continue the series (if Rice writes more) in the hope that these issues improve. As mentioned, this has mostly 4 and 5 star reviews so don’t let my lukewarm review put you off if it sounds like your cup of tea. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc which allowed me to give an honest review. Blood Victory is available now.
Six months after rescuing Luke from the terrorists who tortured and nearly killed him, Charley is ready to undertake another mission. Supervised once more by conflicted billionaire Cole Grayson, this time Luke is working with her, and had training to make him a near super-soldier. His brother Bailey is also working for Cole and has identified a trucker who’s been buying large quantities of the kinds of chemicals only people trying to dissolve bodies use, so Charley goes undercover as a potential victim. Needing to find his kill site in case any other women are being held captive, she must submit to the terror of capture to trigger the Zypraxon in her blood which will give her the strength to take him down; luckily Cyrus has perfected the art of terror with some truly horrible engineering - has Charley finally met her match?
So my problem with the last book was that while there were super-exciting action sections, there were too many long winded talking parts that slowed the pace right down. This one had the same issues - a slow start, then it finally got going, then stopped as we jumped back fifty years to read about the killer’s mother. Don’t get me wrong, I like to know the baddie’s backstory but this one was particularly banal. Then there are endless scenes of Cole-Noah angst where we have to work out whether either of them can be trusted. I did like Zoey’s character but spent the second half of the book stressed about poor Boris, her cat - spoiler alert, he’s fine.
I did like this one a bit better, hence 3 stars - I certainly got through it quicker as I was intrigued by exactly what Cyrus had planned for his “seedling”, and couldn’t wait for Charley to trigger and inflict her righteous vengeance. The relationship between Charley and Luke is refreshingly solid, and they are both likeable characters without the self-pity or self-doubt that often plague young adult heroes. The writing is fluid although there were various references I didn’t understand - it would’ve been preferable if the glossary at the end were at the beginning instead, especially for readers new to the series.
Overall, this is an original series with intriguing plots and characters, a mix of thriller, horror and supernatural elements, and some very unpleasant baddies getting what they deserve, but let down by pacing and secondary character interactions that really aren’t all that interesting. I haven’t decided whether I will continue the series (if Rice writes more) in the hope that these issues improve. As mentioned, this has mostly 4 and 5 star reviews so don’t let my lukewarm review put you off if it sounds like your cup of tea. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc which allowed me to give an honest review. Blood Victory is available now.
September 16, 2020
3-1/2 stars
In this entry of the series, Charley and company take on a long-haul trucker whose truck contains a twisted horror show that's only a prelude to what awaits his unwilling passengers at the end of the road.
Though Charley is about the same (which is a good thing), I was glad to see some of the other characters developing after events that have transpired in the previous two books. Luke is a larger part of these secret operations now, which seems to have strengthened his and Charley's bond to each other. Cole is feeling more "human," and Noah finally seems to understand the repercussions of his actions that basically began this project that they're all stuck in together now.
I was pretty much sucked right into this book from the beginning, and the suspense and action was a perfect pace to keep the reader engaged and turning the pages to see what was going to happen next.
I have enjoyed this series so far and hope there are more books to come, as I've grown attached to these characters.
If you like thrillers with a supernatural thread to them, you should enjoy these books. But it's definitely necessary to read them in order to completely understand what's happening/has happened to these characters. I've said it before -- this series reminds me of older Dean Koontz books when it was about how good each individual book was, not filling the story with a bunch of nonsense to drag it out into a five-book series.
In this entry of the series, Charley and company take on a long-haul trucker whose truck contains a twisted horror show that's only a prelude to what awaits his unwilling passengers at the end of the road.
Though Charley is about the same (which is a good thing), I was glad to see some of the other characters developing after events that have transpired in the previous two books. Luke is a larger part of these secret operations now, which seems to have strengthened his and Charley's bond to each other. Cole is feeling more "human," and Noah finally seems to understand the repercussions of his actions that basically began this project that they're all stuck in together now.
I was pretty much sucked right into this book from the beginning, and the suspense and action was a perfect pace to keep the reader engaged and turning the pages to see what was going to happen next.
I have enjoyed this series so far and hope there are more books to come, as I've grown attached to these characters.
If you like thrillers with a supernatural thread to them, you should enjoy these books. But it's definitely necessary to read them in order to completely understand what's happening/has happened to these characters. I've said it before -- this series reminds me of older Dean Koontz books when it was about how good each individual book was, not filling the story with a bunch of nonsense to drag it out into a five-book series.
June 29, 2020
Book 3 in the Burning Girl Series and so far it's a full five stars for EVERY BOOK IN THE SERIES. Rice has really launched this series forward in these three books and while you could likely read this as a standalone, I would STRONGLY recommend reading this from book one and it'll give you better understanding and deeper connection to the full story line. And trust me, readers, this is definitely a series where you want to know all the details.
From being the stolen baby raised by serial killers, to finding out she has been drugged with Zypraxon that gives her superhuman powers and luckily is the first to survive being triggered... to now trying to work with authorities to bring down other killers, Charlotte is a character you will absolutely love and to see these big transitions via only three books so far, it so impresses me how Rice does this without making time seem to move too fast, making the sci-fi part of it not convoluted but an added bonus to the scary parts of things we could potentially see happening in the future... I mean, I don't even know where to start in terms of how well crafted this series is.
Side note to the author: I'm absolutely ok with snakes but that whole set up with the RATS... I physically wretched (which is also why I LOVED all of that as well - what can I say, I'm a sick person *wink*).
The dirty birds in this story had quite the evil story to tell. I definitely do NOT want to be a seedling that someone else needs to plant. Not gonna lie, I absolutely loved this side of the story and I truly intrigued to see where this series continues in terms of future villains and from a certain new character that has all my must know hairs standing straight up. Rice has done it again and I'm telling y'all, you WANT to read this series. Get on it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this copy.
From being the stolen baby raised by serial killers, to finding out she has been drugged with Zypraxon that gives her superhuman powers and luckily is the first to survive being triggered... to now trying to work with authorities to bring down other killers, Charlotte is a character you will absolutely love and to see these big transitions via only three books so far, it so impresses me how Rice does this without making time seem to move too fast, making the sci-fi part of it not convoluted but an added bonus to the scary parts of things we could potentially see happening in the future... I mean, I don't even know where to start in terms of how well crafted this series is.
Side note to the author: I'm absolutely ok with snakes but that whole set up with the RATS... I physically wretched (which is also why I LOVED all of that as well - what can I say, I'm a sick person *wink*).
The dirty birds in this story had quite the evil story to tell. I definitely do NOT want to be a seedling that someone else needs to plant. Not gonna lie, I absolutely loved this side of the story and I truly intrigued to see where this series continues in terms of future villains and from a certain new character that has all my must know hairs standing straight up. Rice has done it again and I'm telling y'all, you WANT to read this series. Get on it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this copy.
August 23, 2020
Christopher Rice's Burning Girl series is without question one of my all-time favorites in the thriller genre. Blood Victory is the third book in the series, and it easily exceeded my expectations.
The characters are diverse and complex. We have a strong female lead, tangled relationships, and conflicting emotions that add immense depth beyond the serial killer case at hand.
The plot is intense, dark, thought-provoking, realistic, and not for the squeamish. Just the right amount of detail places us in the midst of emotionally-charged scenes, with a sense of urgency throughout.
I don't think this is the kind of series you want to jump into midway. The story works best if you're familiar with the intricacies, so definitely start with Bone Music, book one.
*I received a review copy via NetGalley.*
The characters are diverse and complex. We have a strong female lead, tangled relationships, and conflicting emotions that add immense depth beyond the serial killer case at hand.
The plot is intense, dark, thought-provoking, realistic, and not for the squeamish. Just the right amount of detail places us in the midst of emotionally-charged scenes, with a sense of urgency throughout.
I don't think this is the kind of series you want to jump into midway. The story works best if you're familiar with the intricacies, so definitely start with Bone Music, book one.
*I received a review copy via NetGalley.*
August 26, 2020
Three stars for a good read. Though the weakest entry of the series so far it still left me looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 6, 2020
When I thought Charley’s serial killer finding missions couldn’t get any more sicker, weirder or crazier...I thought wrong. I was soooooooo wrong. Blood victory is more bloody and vicious than the previous books and I loved it so very much.
5 stars, obviously (I would give 5 million if it was possible).
So, why did I like about Blood Victory?
- the plot. Charley is back. She still has extraordinary powers when she takes Zypraxon. She hunts another serial killer. There is nothing new about this so far, right? Cole and his team think they know everything about Cyrus Mattingly, the know his way of selecting the victims, they know about his rituals. And here comes the twist: there is something they do not know (I won’t tell what the twist is, sorry). And that something could be the difference between life or death not just for Charley but other victims as well. How crazy is this?
- characters. The main characters are amazingly well-developed. They still change, develop into something better. Charley becomes more human, more emotional with every book, it’s like in the real world, the things that happen to her, be those good or bad things, they shape her. And not just her. Luke and Cole and even Noah go through life-changing experiences which shape them. I feel it easier to relate to them after every book, because with every story I get to find out something new about them.
- Zypraxon and its effect on Charley. When she is on the pill, she is a superhero and I love superheroes.
What I didn’t like about Blood Victory? I loved every word of it. I can hardly wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy.
5 stars, obviously (I would give 5 million if it was possible).
So, why did I like about Blood Victory?
- the plot. Charley is back. She still has extraordinary powers when she takes Zypraxon. She hunts another serial killer. There is nothing new about this so far, right? Cole and his team think they know everything about Cyrus Mattingly, the know his way of selecting the victims, they know about his rituals. And here comes the twist: there is something they do not know (I won’t tell what the twist is, sorry). And that something could be the difference between life or death not just for Charley but other victims as well. How crazy is this?
- characters. The main characters are amazingly well-developed. They still change, develop into something better. Charley becomes more human, more emotional with every book, it’s like in the real world, the things that happen to her, be those good or bad things, they shape her. And not just her. Luke and Cole and even Noah go through life-changing experiences which shape them. I feel it easier to relate to them after every book, because with every story I get to find out something new about them.
- Zypraxon and its effect on Charley. When she is on the pill, she is a superhero and I love superheroes.
What I didn’t like about Blood Victory? I loved every word of it. I can hardly wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy.
September 8, 2020
Avid Reader
I am not sure if this is the last installment of Charlotte, Luke, Noah, and Bailey, but I would like to think that it is going to continue because one of the victims decides to work with them after they did themselves of two members of the Consortium because they wanted to kill Charlotte. Like proposes at the end, which is just lovely! This group of serial killers will make you cringe every time you see a box-shaped truck.
I am not sure if this is the last installment of Charlotte, Luke, Noah, and Bailey, but I would like to think that it is going to continue because one of the victims decides to work with them after they did themselves of two members of the Consortium because they wanted to kill Charlotte. Like proposes at the end, which is just lovely! This group of serial killers will make you cringe every time you see a box-shaped truck.
April 26, 2020
Charley is back and tracking her next serial killer. This fast paced story kept me on the edge of my seat right from the beginning. Christopher Rice has created another thrilling, terrifying, and mind blowing installment in the Burning Girl series. Must read series for fans of Dean Koontz. Can’t wait for more!
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
August 20, 2020
Blood Victory is the third book in the Burning Girl series and by far my favourite of the series. We follow the same cast of characters that we’ve been introduced to from the very beginning, Charley the only woman who can withhold a strong drug that enables her to have superhuman strength for 3 hours, in which she uses those powers to take down serial killers, since her own mother had been a victim of a serial killer couple, Luke, Charley’s ex-high school bully turned boyfriend who now helps her on her missions to take down the serial killers, Cole, an uber-rich guy who pays for Charley’s missions, and Noah the mad scientist that discovered the drug that enables Charley to have extraordinary strength.
This third installment in the series is both very compelling and fast-paced. I was intrigued by the serial killers introduced in this book as opposed to the past ones, and I felt like our characters were a bit more fleshed out than in the previous books. I enjoyed being on the mission with Charley and wondering if she’d be able to take down the serial killers since she had so much going against her (I can’t say what, no spoilers!).
Initially, I thought this series was going to be a trilogy, but by the way it ended, I have a feeling there are going to be more Burning Girl series books, and I’m not complaining!
I highly recommend this if you’re into fast-paced action thrillers, this is Mission Impossible meets The Hulk with a dash of Silence of the Lambs. You won’t be disappointed!
*Thank you so much to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This third installment in the series is both very compelling and fast-paced. I was intrigued by the serial killers introduced in this book as opposed to the past ones, and I felt like our characters were a bit more fleshed out than in the previous books. I enjoyed being on the mission with Charley and wondering if she’d be able to take down the serial killers since she had so much going against her (I can’t say what, no spoilers!).
Initially, I thought this series was going to be a trilogy, but by the way it ended, I have a feeling there are going to be more Burning Girl series books, and I’m not complaining!
I highly recommend this if you’re into fast-paced action thrillers, this is Mission Impossible meets The Hulk with a dash of Silence of the Lambs. You won’t be disappointed!
*Thank you so much to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
April 24, 2020
Thank you Netgalley for sharing this book with me in exchange for a honest review.
I have read the Burning Girls since it was released. I absolutely love reading the book in the series.
** Oops....There is a Problem.
In the first book, Charlotte becomes an unintended lab experiment. I loved how focus was on Charlotte. All the key characters are revealed - Noah, Cole, and Charlotte.
** Let's find a solution for the Problem
In the second book, Charlotee undergoes a life changing experiment to test the the use of the pill. The main focus was on Cole. Bailey and Luke are added to the team.
** Its time to test the solution for a bigger cause.
In the third book, the experiment is tested in the public. Charlotte is luring a serial killer for justice. Cole's team is backing her up. It takes a team to succeed!
Focus is on the entire team this time. It was as if the big picture is revealed.
There are also concepts of team building, reconciliation, and romance incorporated in the book.
(1) Cole reconciles with Noah.
(2) Noah reconciles with Charlotte.
(3) Bailey is reunited with his brother, Luke.
I cant wait for the fourth book as the story continues.
I have read the Burning Girls since it was released. I absolutely love reading the book in the series.
** Oops....There is a Problem.
In the first book, Charlotte becomes an unintended lab experiment. I loved how focus was on Charlotte. All the key characters are revealed - Noah, Cole, and Charlotte.
** Let's find a solution for the Problem
In the second book, Charlotee undergoes a life changing experiment to test the the use of the pill. The main focus was on Cole. Bailey and Luke are added to the team.
** Its time to test the solution for a bigger cause.
In the third book, the experiment is tested in the public. Charlotte is luring a serial killer for justice. Cole's team is backing her up. It takes a team to succeed!
Focus is on the entire team this time. It was as if the big picture is revealed.
There are also concepts of team building, reconciliation, and romance incorporated in the book.
(1) Cole reconciles with Noah.
(2) Noah reconciles with Charlotte.
(3) Bailey is reunited with his brother, Luke.
I cant wait for the fourth book as the story continues.
October 20, 2020
I don't consider this book to be a stand-alone, so read Bone Music (Burning Girl, #1) first for the plot background as well as an introduction to most of the characters. Blood Echo takes place shortly after Bone Music concludes. Blood Victory takes place several months after Blood Echo.
The graphic violence (serial killers, rape and domestic terrorism among other violence) described in this series might trigger some readers, so please be advised.
Some of the science and technology seems to be more creative than factual, so don't be too concerned by the nerdy details. The story falls into both the thriller and the science fiction genres.
I've read all 3 books within the last 2 months. The flow of the story in Blood Victory worked better for me than the first 2 books. A few hanging threads at the end gnaw at me. What did the two men in The Consortium (two of Cole's partners) discover? Exactly who is The Consortium's silent partner?
In Blood Victory, Charlie has become more confident and less of a victim. I appreciate and applaud this character development! I look forward to possible future books in this series.
The graphic violence (serial killers, rape and domestic terrorism among other violence) described in this series might trigger some readers, so please be advised.
Some of the science and technology seems to be more creative than factual, so don't be too concerned by the nerdy details. The story falls into both the thriller and the science fiction genres.
I've read all 3 books within the last 2 months. The flow of the story in Blood Victory worked better for me than the first 2 books. A few hanging threads at the end gnaw at me. What did the two men in The Consortium (two of Cole's partners) discover? Exactly who is The Consortium's silent partner?
In Blood Victory, Charlie has become more confident and less of a victim. I appreciate and applaud this character development! I look forward to possible future books in this series.
October 3, 2021
Some hits and misses throughout the story, but overall a good finish to the series. The three book series was definitely enjoyable with a really interesting plot line and a female heroine. I've really really enjoyed Charlotte's character. She's a strong character, but also allowed to be human. Its a solid series to add to your TBR list.
You definitely need to read these books in order to get an understanding of the characters. I'm not going to get into the plot since this is book 3, but for anyone who has read book 1 or 2 and trying to decide whether to keep going, I will say that while book 2 lags a bit, but you should definitely complete the series. Charlotte No spoilers, but there is also a minor M/M plot line that get gets a little bit of a payoff. I would actually love a 4th book that focused on Bailey and his back story as well as Cole and Noah...maybe a psychological thriller mixed with a little romance.
You definitely need to read these books in order to get an understanding of the characters. I'm not going to get into the plot since this is book 3, but for anyone who has read book 1 or 2 and trying to decide whether to keep going, I will say that while book 2 lags a bit, but you should definitely complete the series. Charlotte No spoilers, but there is also a minor M/M plot line that get gets a little bit of a payoff. I would actually love a 4th book that focused on Bailey and his back story as well as Cole and Noah...maybe a psychological thriller mixed with a little romance.
July 31, 2020
A well written, grisly and fast paced story that I found gripping and entertaining. Excellent world building and character development, a plot that kept me hooked.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
August 18, 2020
Third installment in the burning girl series has Charlotte once again on the track of a deranged killer. Can she stop him in time or will she become his next victim?
November 6, 2020
If you aren't reading this unique series, pick up the first book now!
September 7, 2020
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Thrillers / Suspense
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Blood Victory, by author Christopher Rice, is the third installment in the authors Burning Girl series. In this installment, Charlotte Rowe goes after Cyrus Mattingly and those like him who pick up women who are never heard from again. You can call it human trafficking if you like since the chosen women are taken long distances to a secret place where Mother has set up shop. Charlotte's plan is to lure Cyrus to targeting her by pretending to be someone else, and then hopefully he can lead Charlotte and her team, which includes Cole Graydon, the CEO of Graydon Pharmaceuticals, Noah Turlington, who returns to the series, Luke & Bailey Prescott, to Cyrus' base of operation.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Thrillers / Suspense
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Blood Victory, by author Christopher Rice, is the third installment in the authors Burning Girl series. In this installment, Charlotte Rowe goes after Cyrus Mattingly and those like him who pick up women who are never heard from again. You can call it human trafficking if you like since the chosen women are taken long distances to a secret place where Mother has set up shop. Charlotte's plan is to lure Cyrus to targeting her by pretending to be someone else, and then hopefully he can lead Charlotte and her team, which includes Cole Graydon, the CEO of Graydon Pharmaceuticals, Noah Turlington, who returns to the series, Luke & Bailey Prescott, to Cyrus' base of operation.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
March 13, 2024
Another installment, well done and well built. Not spectacular, but solid book.
Temporary super woman goes on the hunt with the the power of self respect! And people look out for her best interests.
Temporary super woman goes on the hunt with the the power of self respect! And people look out for her best interests.
October 27, 2025
I love Rice’s writing so it is difficult when he undercooks scenes. I would’ve liked to read a fuller fleshed out capture and ending for our main villains. It would be great to have another instalment in this series but may be difficult with where everything ends up to not be repetitious. All that said, it’s a great book in a fun series.
October 2, 2020
Could not get into the story, too much happening. I didn't like it. Couldn't finish it.
May 27, 2020
Burning Girl is back! Christopher Rice has given us another great Burning Girl story with Blood Victory.
"Charlotte Rowe has extraordinary power after surviving an experimental drug. Now she hunts predators and serial killers with the help of her boyfriend, Luke and Cole Graydon, the head of Graydon Pharmaceuticals.
They believe Cyrus Mattingly has been killing girls for years. But they don't know where his kill zone is. So Charlotte must let Cyrus take her - in the back of his 'horror-show' truck, so that he can be stopped. But something Cyrus says makes them question everything..."
The action and tension is non-stop. Charlotte (or Charley) will do what it takes to stop these guys ffrom killing again. The device that Cyrus uses to keep girls subdued in back of the truck is horrifying. Some great imagination from Rice, but if you're squeamish about rats and snakes and spiders, you'll be very uncomfortable. Along the way we get some of Cyrus's backstory and some about the mysterious Mother. Rice brings in characters called the Consortium that have their own agenda and creates more tension. We get to see Charley be the Burning Girl. And there's more great technology. I like that Rice allows the characters to grow and change. It makes the series more enjoyable. I raced through this in a couple of days. Out in August, you will definitely want to read this one.
"Charlotte Rowe has extraordinary power after surviving an experimental drug. Now she hunts predators and serial killers with the help of her boyfriend, Luke and Cole Graydon, the head of Graydon Pharmaceuticals.
They believe Cyrus Mattingly has been killing girls for years. But they don't know where his kill zone is. So Charlotte must let Cyrus take her - in the back of his 'horror-show' truck, so that he can be stopped. But something Cyrus says makes them question everything..."
The action and tension is non-stop. Charlotte (or Charley) will do what it takes to stop these guys ffrom killing again. The device that Cyrus uses to keep girls subdued in back of the truck is horrifying. Some great imagination from Rice, but if you're squeamish about rats and snakes and spiders, you'll be very uncomfortable. Along the way we get some of Cyrus's backstory and some about the mysterious Mother. Rice brings in characters called the Consortium that have their own agenda and creates more tension. We get to see Charley be the Burning Girl. And there's more great technology. I like that Rice allows the characters to grow and change. It makes the series more enjoyable. I raced through this in a couple of days. Out in August, you will definitely want to read this one.
August 29, 2020
Bit of a letdown
I waited pretty patiently for this final book and it was a letdown for me. Too predictable. I was hoping for some major twists, but it just wrapped everything up like happily ever after
I waited pretty patiently for this final book and it was a letdown for me. Too predictable. I was hoping for some major twists, but it just wrapped everything up like happily ever after
August 26, 2020
I liked the premise here more than the book itself. There's a lot of behind-the-scenes, political-intrigue type drama that I didn't find to be well paced or intelligent. The main plot, of a superpowered woman hunting a killer who thinks he's hunting her is rather shallow and concludes in a blink-and-you'll-miss-it climax. There were a number of characters that were difficult to keep straight because there was so little to distinguish them with. The first half of the book contains too much exposition for those new to the series.
There are a few moments that shine, mainly introductions of characters new to the series. I found the characters' histories compelling, but I wish there had been more done with with the divergence of those with traumatic pasts that become abusers vs. those that don't.
It's serviceable with some decent characters, even if the author doesn't seem to know what to do with them once he sets them up.
3/5
Thank you to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
There are a few moments that shine, mainly introductions of characters new to the series. I found the characters' histories compelling, but I wish there had been more done with with the divergence of those with traumatic pasts that become abusers vs. those that don't.
It's serviceable with some decent characters, even if the author doesn't seem to know what to do with them once he sets them up.
3/5
Thank you to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
August 24, 2020
So excited for this!!!! I was wondering when the next book would be out!! 💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽
---
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Really enjoyed this one! Started in one direction and then ended somewhere completely different. I wasn't expecting all the twists and turns and the direction everything took. I like to see the team building slowly and the relationship between Noah and Cole is interesting, though I'm still having a hard time seeing past the utter creepy violating shit Noah pulled in the past. So not sure how I feel about their relationship- especially because I like Cole.
I think this is the most I've ever liked Charlie. She really just went full on in this book, and I respect it. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, it seems like this team is slowly coming together!
---
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Really enjoyed this one! Started in one direction and then ended somewhere completely different. I wasn't expecting all the twists and turns and the direction everything took. I like to see the team building slowly and the relationship between Noah and Cole is interesting, though I'm still having a hard time seeing past the utter creepy violating shit Noah pulled in the past. So not sure how I feel about their relationship- especially because I like Cole.
I think this is the most I've ever liked Charlie. She really just went full on in this book, and I respect it. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, it seems like this team is slowly coming together!
September 3, 2020
Interesting premise. A woman who is part of some secret organization that tracks and takes out serial killers, but with a twist. They've developed an experimental drug that gives her super strength, super human powers. She lures evil men to take her as a victim, but she actually plays the victim, torture and all, until she becomes afraid enough to trigger the drug. And like any drug, the more you take it, the more your body becomes tolerant or resistant to it.
I felt like this book had an interesting perspective, and I liked that it was a female empowered story. It was definitely dark and a different spin on crime fiction.
The audiobook narration added to the sort of dark and creepy, almost clinical and emotionless perspective. Well done.
I felt like this book had an interesting perspective, and I liked that it was a female empowered story. It was definitely dark and a different spin on crime fiction.
The audiobook narration added to the sort of dark and creepy, almost clinical and emotionless perspective. Well done.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews