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Witchbane #3
Dark Rivers
Listening Time: 7 hrs., 17 min.
One hundred years ago, a sheriff’s posse killed dark warlock Rhyfel Gremory, but his witch-disciples escaped, and their magic made them nearly immortal. To keep their power, each year one of the witch-disciples kills a descendant of one of the men in the posse, a twelve-year cycle that has cost dozens of lives, including that of Seth Tanner’s brother, Jesse.
Seth Tanner uncovers the cycle of ritual killings that feeds the power of the witch-disciples, and he's hell bent on getting vengeance for Jesse and stopping the murders. His fledgling romantic relationship with Evan Malone complicates his mission, but Seth can’t walk away. Seth and Evan are learning to navigate their partnership—as lovers and monster hunters—while they chase down the next witch-disciple and avoid attracting the wrong kind of attention.
When the hunt takes Seth and Evan to Pittsburgh on the trail of the next killer, they’ll have to save the intended victim and take down the powerful witch. If the skills they possess and the bond between them isn’t enough, the evil will remain unchallenged, and more people will die...
Note: Includes mention of past domestic violence and stalking.
One hundred years ago, a sheriff’s posse killed dark warlock Rhyfel Gremory, but his witch-disciples escaped, and their magic made them nearly immortal. To keep their power, each year one of the witch-disciples kills a descendant of one of the men in the posse, a twelve-year cycle that has cost dozens of lives, including that of Seth Tanner’s brother, Jesse.
Seth Tanner uncovers the cycle of ritual killings that feeds the power of the witch-disciples, and he's hell bent on getting vengeance for Jesse and stopping the murders. His fledgling romantic relationship with Evan Malone complicates his mission, but Seth can’t walk away. Seth and Evan are learning to navigate their partnership—as lovers and monster hunters—while they chase down the next witch-disciple and avoid attracting the wrong kind of attention.
When the hunt takes Seth and Evan to Pittsburgh on the trail of the next killer, they’ll have to save the intended victim and take down the powerful witch. If the skills they possess and the bond between them isn’t enough, the evil will remain unchallenged, and more people will die...
Note: Includes mention of past domestic violence and stalking.
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 23, 2018
54 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Brice
50 books608 followersMorgan Brice writes Urban Fantasy M/M Paranormal Romance with lots of magic, spooky stuff, and sexy men.
Pen name of author Gail Z. Martin.
Pen name of author Gail Z. Martin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
September 28, 2024
Dark Rivers by Morgan Brice
Witchbane series #3. Urban fantasy M-M romance. Best read in series order.
Seth Tanner and Evan Malone are in Pittsburgh on the trail of the witch-disciples and their next victim. After Seth’s brother was killed in his place, Seth is bent on getting vengeance and stopping the murders.
The evil is still stalking.
An intense episode of Seth and Evan against the evil while also trying to protect and strengthen their new relationship. Ghosts, PTSD, and a prior offender returns. Two characters from a Gail Z Martin book make an appearance.
Dark and gritty with offsetting romantic sexuality.
Witchbane series #3. Urban fantasy M-M romance. Best read in series order.
Seth Tanner and Evan Malone are in Pittsburgh on the trail of the witch-disciples and their next victim. After Seth’s brother was killed in his place, Seth is bent on getting vengeance and stopping the murders.
The evil is still stalking.
An intense episode of Seth and Evan against the evil while also trying to protect and strengthen their new relationship. Ghosts, PTSD, and a prior offender returns. Two characters from a Gail Z Martin book make an appearance.
Dark and gritty with offsetting romantic sexuality.
October 20, 2021
Seth and Evan are figuring out both their personal and professional relationships. Combine an evil warlock, new monster hunter friends, and an evil ex-boyfriend and you’ve got a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Morgan Brice is carefully keeping Seth and Evan's relationship front and center while still maintaining a focus on the highly suspenseful search for the powerful witch and those helping him...all the while trying to keep the man designated as the next sacrifice alive. New elements of magic and paranormal events are often brought in as well as new characters and old friends from some of her other series...which are all also fabulous. I love it, when as a reader and a huge fan of all this author's books, she makes the effort to not let us lose contact with the characters of the other much loved books. It just all works so well for the story and the reader.
March 15, 2022
I have read this entire series 6 times and have no plans to stop. Love these two guys...love the life they are trying to make together...love how they feel about one another. This author could write the phone book and I would happily read it. Hope she plans to let us have Seth and Evan and their friends for book 100 or more. Please, please keep this series and the Badlands series going. Is forever too much to ask?
December 1, 2019
I'm really enjoying this series - they're an interesting couple with some great back stories, plus the mysteries are creative. Looking forward to seeing where they go from here.
I did the audio version and Kale Williams is always incredible. His warm and soothing voice always does it for me.
I did the audio version and Kale Williams is always incredible. His warm and soothing voice always does it for me.
August 9, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2019/05/18/...
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
I received a copy of Dark Rivers from Darkwind Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
I received a copy of Dark Rivers from Darkwind Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2019
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley
actual rating: 3.5
I enjoyed this book but not as much as the first one. I still like the main characters and the general plot, but a lot of this book seemed to follow a bit too closely in the exact same vein as the first book. I get that there is obviously going to be a lot of similarity because they are just hunting down a different disciple every book, but it seemed like all the highlights down to Evan being kidnapped were repeated. Also, I do like that the boys are kind of creating their own found family and it's nice to have some more characters, but the more male characters you add the more obvious it becomes that literally the ONLY female character in this book with lines is a barista that Evan talks to maybe twice.
actual rating: 3.5
I enjoyed this book but not as much as the first one. I still like the main characters and the general plot, but a lot of this book seemed to follow a bit too closely in the exact same vein as the first book. I get that there is obviously going to be a lot of similarity because they are just hunting down a different disciple every book, but it seemed like all the highlights down to Evan being kidnapped were repeated. Also, I do like that the boys are kind of creating their own found family and it's nice to have some more characters, but the more male characters you add the more obvious it becomes that literally the ONLY female character in this book with lines is a barista that Evan talks to maybe twice.
October 29, 2018
When this author published the first book from this series, Witchbane, I was duly impressed with how she nailed that story since it was her first foray into M/M. Now with several more in the genre under her belt, she’s turned out an even stronger story here with Dark Rivers, the second book in the Witchbane series. Already a solid writer in urban fantasy, Dark Rivers showcases that talent brilliantly while continuing to build on the lore created in Witchbane.
We join Seth and Evan (he prefers being called Evan over Jackson, hence the difference in name in this book) as they are preparing to go after another witch disciple to keep him from taking another innocent life. Their relationship, while still in its early stages, has become stronger and more solid after what they went through in book one which does keep the stakes high here as well—especially since it seems there’s more than just the obvious villain this time around.
There is a constant buzz of suspense throughout the story, and there is always something to keep you on edge as you read. To add to that, there are issues that both Seth and Evan continue to work through not just with their relationship, but from their pasts as well which helps to keep the tension high when doubts surface at inopportune moments. Alongside the excitement and action there is the ongoing attraction and their seemingly unlimited chemistry with the accompanying intimate scenes to keep things scorching hot between them.
I really liked the supporting characters that were brought into this story, and how it feels like a team is building in this supernatural fight. Everyone has their own special talents (whether paranormal or mundane), and they all contribute to the story in some shape or form. Since you’d expect the trend in a series like this would mean the baddies get stronger as the series progresses, I really am partial to the idea of Seth and Evan having their own strong backup as well.
Dark Rivers sucked me in from the start, and I read it in a single sitting. It was a 5-star read for me, and I highly recommend this book and series to M/M paranormal romance/urban fantasy fans. I strongly suggest reading Witchbane first—there is a lot of background information covered in that book, and it does set the stage for the lore that Dark Rivers builds upon…you will probably be a little lost if you read these out of order. I can’t wait for the next book in the series, especially since it looks like it will be set in a town I lived in for a while! This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
We join Seth and Evan (he prefers being called Evan over Jackson, hence the difference in name in this book) as they are preparing to go after another witch disciple to keep him from taking another innocent life. Their relationship, while still in its early stages, has become stronger and more solid after what they went through in book one which does keep the stakes high here as well—especially since it seems there’s more than just the obvious villain this time around.
There is a constant buzz of suspense throughout the story, and there is always something to keep you on edge as you read. To add to that, there are issues that both Seth and Evan continue to work through not just with their relationship, but from their pasts as well which helps to keep the tension high when doubts surface at inopportune moments. Alongside the excitement and action there is the ongoing attraction and their seemingly unlimited chemistry with the accompanying intimate scenes to keep things scorching hot between them.
I really liked the supporting characters that were brought into this story, and how it feels like a team is building in this supernatural fight. Everyone has their own special talents (whether paranormal or mundane), and they all contribute to the story in some shape or form. Since you’d expect the trend in a series like this would mean the baddies get stronger as the series progresses, I really am partial to the idea of Seth and Evan having their own strong backup as well.
Dark Rivers sucked me in from the start, and I read it in a single sitting. It was a 5-star read for me, and I highly recommend this book and series to M/M paranormal romance/urban fantasy fans. I strongly suggest reading Witchbane first—there is a lot of background information covered in that book, and it does set the stage for the lore that Dark Rivers builds upon…you will probably be a little lost if you read these out of order. I can’t wait for the next book in the series, especially since it looks like it will be set in a town I lived in for a while! This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
November 1, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Dark Rivers is the second full book in Morgan Brice’s engaging Witchbane series, following Witchbane and the novella Burn. Brice has created a really fascinating set up for her series, establishing the conflict in book one. Each year, one of the twelve witch-disciples murders a descendant of the sheriff’s posse who killed their mentor. This gives the series some interesting structure as there are new murders to prevent and new victims to protect as these guys go along from book to book. I find the world building and the lore Brice has created here really unique and compelling, particularly as Evan and Seth increase their hunter skills and learn more about the paranormal elements they are batting.
In this story, the guys head to Pittsburgh, home to the next victim. I think it is a neat twist that they know the future victim, and they know which of the witch-disciples will do the killing, but they don’t know what name the witch-disciple is currently using. This leaves them racing to research and investigate and try to figure it all out, while still protecting the intended victim. I did find the start of this one a little slow as Seth and Evan spend a lot of time going to check out various sites that could have a connection to the case. While it does all come together in the end, it took a while for things to really heat up for me here. But once the investigation really gets into full swing, there is some really nice suspense and excitement.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Dark Rivers is the second full book in Morgan Brice’s engaging Witchbane series, following Witchbane and the novella Burn. Brice has created a really fascinating set up for her series, establishing the conflict in book one. Each year, one of the twelve witch-disciples murders a descendant of the sheriff’s posse who killed their mentor. This gives the series some interesting structure as there are new murders to prevent and new victims to protect as these guys go along from book to book. I find the world building and the lore Brice has created here really unique and compelling, particularly as Evan and Seth increase their hunter skills and learn more about the paranormal elements they are batting.
In this story, the guys head to Pittsburgh, home to the next victim. I think it is a neat twist that they know the future victim, and they know which of the witch-disciples will do the killing, but they don’t know what name the witch-disciple is currently using. This leaves them racing to research and investigate and try to figure it all out, while still protecting the intended victim. I did find the start of this one a little slow as Seth and Evan spend a lot of time going to check out various sites that could have a connection to the case. While it does all come together in the end, it took a while for things to really heat up for me here. But once the investigation really gets into full swing, there is some really nice suspense and excitement.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
August 25, 2019
I'm still loving this series and things are progressing very nicely...hopefully a full review will occur soonish!
April 15, 2019
although not a big fan of the first book, the series premise (along w/ book 2's location) was intriguing enough for me to try book 2. Alas, some of the issues I had with book 1 continued with book 2 -- the pace was slow and couldn't "connect" with the main characters. I still like the premise in general -- the 2 traveling to stop the evil disciples, knowing who the next victim is and who the disciple, if not his current personna, creating a bit of mystery and suspense elements to the story. it just took a good while things to start to come together and, in my opinion, it felt very slow, a little too much telling rather than showing perhaps. Once it started the pace picked up so did the story, but again it felt like a few too convenient or too lucky moments for my liking (perhaps because in part i didn't feel invested in the characters/story). As for the main characters -- they seemed more settled & less angstey (which I appreciated), but still a lot of sex or thinking about sex or teasing about sex (i'm no prude & enjoy a sexy book, but this just seemed a little too much particularly in the beginning of the book, as if used in place or as filler till the investigative part of the story really started). I did appreciate that the author didn't breeze over the trauma that both characters have gone through in the past (& during this book) and how that impacts their lives currently. While there were good points to the book, overall it just fell flat for me.
courtesy of net galley in exchange for fair & honest review
courtesy of net galley in exchange for fair & honest review
May 5, 2019
I am so glad that I stumbled across this author (more on that at the end of this review.) Witchbane, the first book in this series, had me wanting more and Dark Rivers didn’t disappoint – in fact it gave me more than I expected. 😉
Even though Seth and Evan’s relationship is just beginning, it’s stronger than either of them have ever experienced. Seth pulled him into a world that Evan didn’t know existed, but he was always unknowingly a part of. That was a lot to take in, but neither one of them had time to analyze the situation, they needed to stay ahead of the next disciple.
There was a lot going on in Dark Rivers. More than enough action to keep the pages turning, some heated moments between Seth and Evan (and not always between the sheets 😉 ) The couple was tested more than once from more than one source. I pretty much loved every minute of it. Honestly, the only complaint that I had – which was minor – was that there seemed to be a lot of going over what happened in Witchbane. I think that may have been just a “me” thing though, mainly because not a lot of time passed between me reading Witchbane and Dark Rivers. If it had been a longer time span, I might have even found it helpful.
One of my favorite aspects of Dark Rivers may have been the supporting characters. Seth was used to doing things on his own, until he met Evan. In Dark Rivers, they found themselves needing even more help. They had depended on long distance assistance before from other “monster hunters” and “specialists” but this time they needed physical help – whether they wanted it or not. Turns out, their “help” came in the form of characters from another series – that I quite accidentally discovered – by Gail Z. Martin. Yep, Travis and Brent have their very own series – Night Vigil. Imagine my surprise when I didn’t realize that little bit of info until I started Sons of Darkness (which should probably be read before Dark Rivers, but oh well – not the first time I put the “cart before the horse” and I’m sure it won’t be the last.) There are even more connections between these and a couple more series and books (Spells, Salt, & Steel & Badlands) and you know what that means…. I get to read ALL the books. 😉
I received Dark Rivers in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Even though Seth and Evan’s relationship is just beginning, it’s stronger than either of them have ever experienced. Seth pulled him into a world that Evan didn’t know existed, but he was always unknowingly a part of. That was a lot to take in, but neither one of them had time to analyze the situation, they needed to stay ahead of the next disciple.
There was a lot going on in Dark Rivers. More than enough action to keep the pages turning, some heated moments between Seth and Evan (and not always between the sheets 😉 ) The couple was tested more than once from more than one source. I pretty much loved every minute of it. Honestly, the only complaint that I had – which was minor – was that there seemed to be a lot of going over what happened in Witchbane. I think that may have been just a “me” thing though, mainly because not a lot of time passed between me reading Witchbane and Dark Rivers. If it had been a longer time span, I might have even found it helpful.
One of my favorite aspects of Dark Rivers may have been the supporting characters. Seth was used to doing things on his own, until he met Evan. In Dark Rivers, they found themselves needing even more help. They had depended on long distance assistance before from other “monster hunters” and “specialists” but this time they needed physical help – whether they wanted it or not. Turns out, their “help” came in the form of characters from another series – that I quite accidentally discovered – by Gail Z. Martin. Yep, Travis and Brent have their very own series – Night Vigil. Imagine my surprise when I didn’t realize that little bit of info until I started Sons of Darkness (which should probably be read before Dark Rivers, but oh well – not the first time I put the “cart before the horse” and I’m sure it won’t be the last.) There are even more connections between these and a couple more series and books (Spells, Salt, & Steel & Badlands) and you know what that means…. I get to read ALL the books. 😉
I received Dark Rivers in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 9, 2018
This is the second novel in the Witchbane series, a direct sequel to Burn, the novella that takes place between the first novel, Witchbane, and this one, Dark Rivers. The still-fairly-new relationship between Seth and Evan grows stronger as they continue in their mission to protect the innocent from a line of vengeful disciples of an evil warlock, and as Evan comes face-to-face with an enemy from his past, his abusive ex. There’s a scene fairly early in the novel when Evan has a nightmare, reliving the past abuse, and thrashes awake next to Seth, accidentally hurting Seth in the process. The scene was very powerful (it brought tears to my eyes) and it shows what a gifted writer Morgan Brice is, that she can weave together such moving emotional passages with other scenes of compelling action and adventure – not to mention bedroom scenes that are true-to-life and hot as hell. She also weaves characters together from her other urban fantasy series, including characters from her Badlands series and her new series, Night Vigil (written under her other name Gail Z. Martin). The net result is that a community of support is developing (what we in the LGBT community call “a family of choice”) and Seth and Evan are no longer alone as they battle supernatural enemies.
February 25, 2022
Seth and Evan are back in a thrill-seeking ride with magic, hunting, demons, witches, ghost, etc. It was full of action. I loved this one even more than the first two books in the series! I couldn’t put it down! This was a great continuation of the series!! Overall, a fantastic read! The story was really well written and kept me engaged, the pacing flowed smoothly, highly recommend. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
June 25, 2019
3.5 stars
I liked this one more than the novella, still has a tad bit too much internal dialogue with the MC’s but still a good story. I liked meeting the new guys and how they have books too
Great narrator, I like his voice in this one
I know people don’t understand when I say some books have too much sex in them, but I’m going with my opinion, 2-3 sex scenes could be removed and I think this would be a 4-4.5 stars book for me.
I liked this one more than the novella, still has a tad bit too much internal dialogue with the MC’s but still a good story. I liked meeting the new guys and how they have books too
Great narrator, I like his voice in this one
I know people don’t understand when I say some books have too much sex in them, but I’m going with my opinion, 2-3 sex scenes could be removed and I think this would be a 4-4.5 stars book for me.
January 20, 2025
2.99 stars?? I definitely liked this better than book 1. There was a little less steam and more emotional situations/moments which I really liked. I still can’t really say that I felt their relationship though. 🤔 I may come back and rate this a little higher, but 🤷🏻♀️
August 20, 2019
Fast-paced, full of action and sexy romance. I loved watching the characters relationship grow stronger as they overcame the multitude of obstacles in their way. I enjoyed meeting the new allies and characters from other series as well.
November 4, 2018
Review in English and Polish || Recenzja po angielsku i polsku
After getting rid of one of witch-disciples of Rhyfel Gremory, Seth and Evan hunt down another one of them, who according to their informants lives in Pittsburgh. Without knowing his assumed identity, the hunters are forced to follow the often vague leads they find during their investigation. This time Seth decides to hire a private investigator who, knowing the right people and having access to old archives, can be an invaluable help for them. Although Evan is not convinced that they are certainly doing the right thing by involving the outsider in their affairs, he fully trusts his lover's intuition and judgment. However, at some point things get out of control and as if that was not enough, Evan's painful and abusive past starts to hunt him down.
I must admit that what really appealed to me in "Dark Rivers" is the fact that the author has focused to a large extent on a character of Evan, including his past and development. Information which the reader so far has had about him are confronted with the events of this volume, thanks to which they allow us to get to know this character better. What's more, the difference between Evan from "Witchbane" and that from "Dark Rivers" is outlined to a certain extent because we have the opportunity to see the first distinct changes inside of him thanks to Seth's presence in his life. We see in fact that the runaway becomes a true warrior. If we combine it with the information we have about him before the beginning of the series, the contrast between what he was like and what he has become is even greater. Equally important is that in this volume the author in a really great manner shows us that Evan really is someone who can have Seth's back during the fight. For this man is capable of bravely confronting his greatest fears, thinking rationally in the face of danger, and using all his skills in a situation which would deprive a weak person of a fighting spirit. In short, in "Dark Rivers" Evan occupies an extremely important place and is one of the greatest advantages of this novel. The reader who has loved him so far, now loves him even more and sincerely admires his inner strength.
Just as important is certainly the fact that Morgan Brice in this volume develops the theme of influence the events presented in "Witchbane" have on Evan. In the previous part of the series there wasn't much space for it, but there is plenty of it in this one, as well as the opportunities to present the consequences of fighting the witch-disciple. Thanks to this, we have the opportunity not only to get closer to Evan and look into his psyche, but also to get to know Seth better, especially the attentive and caring part of his nature and his ability to use his own experiences to help his beloved. In this way, the problem of post-traumatic stress disorder again returns to this story by Morgan Brice and this time it is more widely and accurately presented. What is equally important, the author shows that while some problems we can handle ourselves, in more serious cases, such as PTSD, even the best, the strongest and the most courageous needs some specialist help. And in this case, it is not without significance that even Seth is fully aware of this fact and he himself takes the initiative to find someone who would be able to help not only Evan, but also him.
As another one of "Dark Rivers" advantages I consider the introduction of new supporting characters to the story presented in this volume, who stand on the same side as our protagonists, and most importantly, appear in this story physically. Until now, the hunters with whom Seth and Evan have contact only by phone were the only support they have had, while now we have the opportunity to see how these two work directly with other people of similar profession. What's more, we witness the birth of a new friendship. It seems to me to be the more important as sometimes a person needs a physical contact with another human being, someone who understands them, who they can talk to and with whom they can just be themselves, and who is not necessarily their significant other. Not without significance is also the fact that by introducing new characters into this story, the author emphasized that her leads are only people and in order to achieve their goal, be victorious in their crusade against the witch-disciples sometimes they need help from other people. And if we add to it the fact that Morgan Brice is after all a specialist in creating interesting and likeable characters, it's no wonder that we fall in love with her new heroes quickly and inexorably.
As for the whole of this volume, it should be noted that in some parts the action is definitely slower than for example in the novella that precedes this installment of the series. We are focusing on one paranormal problem, which requires the characters' full commitment and a huge amount of work, as well as tedious following the leads to eventually get to something big. But when we reach the point where the action accelerates, there is no time to rest or take a breath, as there is time for thinking and time for action.
I must also remark that this installment sometimes largely presents the events from the previous volume. While this is certainly a great help for people who have not read "Witchbane", it seems to me that for the readers familiar with that part of the series, in this one there are too many detailed mentions of those events from the first volume. It is harmless, but noticeable, like a friend who tells us the same story several times with a large number of information we already know.
To sum up, "Dark Rivers" is undoubtedly an interesting urban fantasy, which we read with great pleasure. It is also a story about love between two people, who, often in unfavorable circumstances, must find their way to keep building the relationship they care about. And finally, it is a novel about strength and courage to face the past from which there is no escape and demons nesting inside the human psyche.
___________________________
Po pozbyciu się jednego z uczniów czarownika Rhyfela Gremory’ego, Seth i Evan tropią kolejnego z nich, który według zdobytych przez nich informacji przebywa w Pittsburghu. Nie znając jego przybranej tożsamości, łowcy zmuszeni są podążać za często mglistymi tropami, na które trafiają podczas swojego śledztwa. Tym razem Seth decyduje się na zatrudnienie prywatnego detektywa, który znając odpowiednich ludzi oraz mając dostęp do starych archiwów może być dla nich nieocenioną pomocą. Chociaż Evan nie jest przekonany, czy aby na pewno postępują słusznie angażując w swoje sprawy osobę z zewnątrz, w pełni ufa intuicji i ocenie sytuacji kochanka. W pewnym momencie sprawy wymykają się jednak spod kontroli i jakby tego było mało bolesna i naznaczona przemocą przeszłość Evana zaczyna się o niego upominać.
Muszę przyznać, że tym, co naprawdę przypadło mi do gustu w „Dark Rivers” jest fakt, iż autorka w dużej mierze skupiła się na osobie Evana, w tym na jego przeszłości oraz ewolucji. Informacje, które czytelnik do tej pory posiadał, zostają skonfrontowane z wydarzeniami tego tomu, dzięki czemu pozwalają nam lepiej poznać tego bohatera. Co więcej, w pewnym stopniu zarysowana zostaje różnica, między Evanem z „Witchbane”, a tym z „Dark Rivers”, ponieważ mamy okazję dostrzec pierwsze wyraźne zmiany, jakie w nim zaszły dzięki obecności w jego życiu Setha. Widzimy bowiem, że uciekinier staje się prawdziwym wojownikiem. Jeśli zestawimy to z informacjami, jakie posiadam na jego temat sprzed początku serii, kontrast między tym, jaki był, a jaki się stał jest jeszcze większy. Co równie istotne, w tym tomie autorka w naprawdę doskonały sposób pokazuje nam, że Evan naprawdę jest kimś, kto może chronić tyłek Setha w czasie walki. Albowiem mężczyzna jest w stanie dzielnie stawić czoła swoim największym obawom, myśleć racjonalnie w obliczu zagrożenia oraz wykorzystać wszystkie swoje umiejętności w sytuacji, która osobę słabą pozbawiłaby ducha walki. Krótko mówiąc, w „Dark Rivers” Evan zajmuje niebywale istotne miejsce i jest jedną z największych zalet tej powieści. Czytelnik, który uwielbiał go do tej pory, teraz kocha go jeszcze bardziej i szczerze podziwia jego wewnętrzną siłę.
Równie istotny jest z całą pewnością fakt, iż Morgan Brice w tym tomie rozwija temat wpływu, jaki na Evana wywarły wydarzenia przedstawione w „Witchbane”. W poprzedniej części serii nie było na to zbyt wiele miejsca, za to w tej jest go pod dostatkiem, podobnie jak sposobności na to by dokładnie przedstawić przede wszystkim następstwa walki z uczniem czarownika. Dzięki temu mamy okazję nie tylko zbliżyć się do Evana i zajrzeć w jego psychikę, ale także poznajemy lepiej Setha, a w szczególności tę troskliwą i opiekuńczą część jego natury oraz umiejętność wykorzystania własnych doświadczeń w celu pomocy ukochanemu. W ten też sposób problem zespołu stresu pourazowego ponownie powraca do opowiadanej przez Morgan Brice historii i tym razem zostaje szerzej i dokładniej przestawiony. Co równie istotne, autorka pokazuje, że o ile z niektórymi problemami można poradzić sobie samemu, o tyle w poważniejszych przypadkach, takich jak chociażby wspomniany zespół stresu pourazowego, nawet najlepsi, najsilniejsi i najbardziej waleczni potrzebują skorzystać z pomocy specjalisty. I w tym wypadku nie bez znaczenia pozostaje fakt, iż nawet Seth jest tego w pełni świadom i sam wychodzi z inicjatywą znalezienia kogoś, kto byłby w stanie pomóc nie tylko Evanowi, ale i jemu samemu.
Za kolejną z zalet „Dark Rivers” uważam wprowadzenie do przedstawionej w tym tomie historii nowych postaci pobocznych, które stoją po tej samej stronie, co nasi protagoniści, a co najważniejsze, pojawiają się w tej historii fizycznie. Do tej pory wsparciem dla Setha i Evana byli łowcy, z którymi mieli wyłącznie kontakt telefoniczny, zaś teraz mamy okazję zaobserwować, jak tych dwoje bezpośrednio współpracuje z innymi osobami o podobnej profesji. Co więcej, jesteśmy świadkami rodzących się nowych przyjaźni. Wydaje mi się to tym istotniejsze, że czasami człowiek potrzebuje fizycznego kontaktu z drugim człowiekiem, z kimś kto go rozumie, z kim może porozmawiać i po prostu być sobą, a kto niekoniecznie będzie jego życiowym partnerem. Nie bez znaczenia jest też fakt, że poprzez wprowadzenie do tej historii nowych postaci, autorka podkreśliła fakt, iż jej główni bohaterowie są tylko ludźmi i aby osiągnąć swój cel, odnieść zwycięstwo w swojej krucjacie przeciwko uczniom czarownika potrzebują czasami pomocy innych osób. A jeśli do tego wszystkiego dodamy fakt, iż Morgan Brice jest przecież specjalistką w tworzeniu interesujących i łatwych do polubienia postaci, to nic dziwnego, że szybko i nieubłaganie zakochujemy się w jej kolejnych bohaterach.
Jeśli zaś chodzi o ogół tego tom serii, to należy zauważyć, że miejscami akcja jest zdecydowanie wolniejsza, niż chociażby w poprzedzającej tę część nowelce. Skupiamy się bowiem na jednym paranormalnym problemie, który wymaga od bohaterów pełnego zaangażowania i ogromnego nakładu pracy, jak również żmudnego podążania za wskazówkami, aby w końcu dotrzeć do czegoś wielkiego. Kiedy jednak docieramy już do momentu, w którym akcja przyspiesza to nie ma mowy o odpoczynku, czy chwili wytchnienia. Jest bowiem czas na myślenia i czas na działanie.
Muszę także zauważyć, iż w tym tomie w dużej mierze przedstawione zostają wydarzenia z części poprzedniej. O ile na pewno jest to dużym ułatwieniem dla osób, które nie czytały wcześniej „Witchbane”, to mam wrażenie, że dla czytelników znających tamtą odsłonę serii bardziej szczegółowych powrotów do pierwszego tomu jest trochę zbyt wiele. Jest to nieszkodliwe, ale zauważalne, niczym w przypadku znajomego, który kilkukrotnie opowiada nam tę samą historię z dużą liczbą szczegółów.
Podsumowując, „Dark Rivers” to niewątpliwie interesujące urban fantasy, które czyta się z ogromną przyjemnością. To także historia o miłości dwojga ludzi, którzy często w mało sprzyjających okolicznościach muszą odnaleźć swój sposób na budowanie związku, na którym im zależy. I w końcu, to powieść o sile i odwadze w stawianiu czoła przeszłości, od której nie sposób uciec oraz demonom gnieżdżącym się w ludzkiej psychice.
After getting rid of one of witch-disciples of Rhyfel Gremory, Seth and Evan hunt down another one of them, who according to their informants lives in Pittsburgh. Without knowing his assumed identity, the hunters are forced to follow the often vague leads they find during their investigation. This time Seth decides to hire a private investigator who, knowing the right people and having access to old archives, can be an invaluable help for them. Although Evan is not convinced that they are certainly doing the right thing by involving the outsider in their affairs, he fully trusts his lover's intuition and judgment. However, at some point things get out of control and as if that was not enough, Evan's painful and abusive past starts to hunt him down.
I must admit that what really appealed to me in "Dark Rivers" is the fact that the author has focused to a large extent on a character of Evan, including his past and development. Information which the reader so far has had about him are confronted with the events of this volume, thanks to which they allow us to get to know this character better. What's more, the difference between Evan from "Witchbane" and that from "Dark Rivers" is outlined to a certain extent because we have the opportunity to see the first distinct changes inside of him thanks to Seth's presence in his life. We see in fact that the runaway becomes a true warrior. If we combine it with the information we have about him before the beginning of the series, the contrast between what he was like and what he has become is even greater. Equally important is that in this volume the author in a really great manner shows us that Evan really is someone who can have Seth's back during the fight. For this man is capable of bravely confronting his greatest fears, thinking rationally in the face of danger, and using all his skills in a situation which would deprive a weak person of a fighting spirit. In short, in "Dark Rivers" Evan occupies an extremely important place and is one of the greatest advantages of this novel. The reader who has loved him so far, now loves him even more and sincerely admires his inner strength.
Just as important is certainly the fact that Morgan Brice in this volume develops the theme of influence the events presented in "Witchbane" have on Evan. In the previous part of the series there wasn't much space for it, but there is plenty of it in this one, as well as the opportunities to present the consequences of fighting the witch-disciple. Thanks to this, we have the opportunity not only to get closer to Evan and look into his psyche, but also to get to know Seth better, especially the attentive and caring part of his nature and his ability to use his own experiences to help his beloved. In this way, the problem of post-traumatic stress disorder again returns to this story by Morgan Brice and this time it is more widely and accurately presented. What is equally important, the author shows that while some problems we can handle ourselves, in more serious cases, such as PTSD, even the best, the strongest and the most courageous needs some specialist help. And in this case, it is not without significance that even Seth is fully aware of this fact and he himself takes the initiative to find someone who would be able to help not only Evan, but also him.
As another one of "Dark Rivers" advantages I consider the introduction of new supporting characters to the story presented in this volume, who stand on the same side as our protagonists, and most importantly, appear in this story physically. Until now, the hunters with whom Seth and Evan have contact only by phone were the only support they have had, while now we have the opportunity to see how these two work directly with other people of similar profession. What's more, we witness the birth of a new friendship. It seems to me to be the more important as sometimes a person needs a physical contact with another human being, someone who understands them, who they can talk to and with whom they can just be themselves, and who is not necessarily their significant other. Not without significance is also the fact that by introducing new characters into this story, the author emphasized that her leads are only people and in order to achieve their goal, be victorious in their crusade against the witch-disciples sometimes they need help from other people. And if we add to it the fact that Morgan Brice is after all a specialist in creating interesting and likeable characters, it's no wonder that we fall in love with her new heroes quickly and inexorably.
As for the whole of this volume, it should be noted that in some parts the action is definitely slower than for example in the novella that precedes this installment of the series. We are focusing on one paranormal problem, which requires the characters' full commitment and a huge amount of work, as well as tedious following the leads to eventually get to something big. But when we reach the point where the action accelerates, there is no time to rest or take a breath, as there is time for thinking and time for action.
I must also remark that this installment sometimes largely presents the events from the previous volume. While this is certainly a great help for people who have not read "Witchbane", it seems to me that for the readers familiar with that part of the series, in this one there are too many detailed mentions of those events from the first volume. It is harmless, but noticeable, like a friend who tells us the same story several times with a large number of information we already know.
To sum up, "Dark Rivers" is undoubtedly an interesting urban fantasy, which we read with great pleasure. It is also a story about love between two people, who, often in unfavorable circumstances, must find their way to keep building the relationship they care about. And finally, it is a novel about strength and courage to face the past from which there is no escape and demons nesting inside the human psyche.
___________________________
Po pozbyciu się jednego z uczniów czarownika Rhyfela Gremory’ego, Seth i Evan tropią kolejnego z nich, który według zdobytych przez nich informacji przebywa w Pittsburghu. Nie znając jego przybranej tożsamości, łowcy zmuszeni są podążać za często mglistymi tropami, na które trafiają podczas swojego śledztwa. Tym razem Seth decyduje się na zatrudnienie prywatnego detektywa, który znając odpowiednich ludzi oraz mając dostęp do starych archiwów może być dla nich nieocenioną pomocą. Chociaż Evan nie jest przekonany, czy aby na pewno postępują słusznie angażując w swoje sprawy osobę z zewnątrz, w pełni ufa intuicji i ocenie sytuacji kochanka. W pewnym momencie sprawy wymykają się jednak spod kontroli i jakby tego było mało bolesna i naznaczona przemocą przeszłość Evana zaczyna się o niego upominać.
Muszę przyznać, że tym, co naprawdę przypadło mi do gustu w „Dark Rivers” jest fakt, iż autorka w dużej mierze skupiła się na osobie Evana, w tym na jego przeszłości oraz ewolucji. Informacje, które czytelnik do tej pory posiadał, zostają skonfrontowane z wydarzeniami tego tomu, dzięki czemu pozwalają nam lepiej poznać tego bohatera. Co więcej, w pewnym stopniu zarysowana zostaje różnica, między Evanem z „Witchbane”, a tym z „Dark Rivers”, ponieważ mamy okazję dostrzec pierwsze wyraźne zmiany, jakie w nim zaszły dzięki obecności w jego życiu Setha. Widzimy bowiem, że uciekinier staje się prawdziwym wojownikiem. Jeśli zestawimy to z informacjami, jakie posiadam na jego temat sprzed początku serii, kontrast między tym, jaki był, a jaki się stał jest jeszcze większy. Co równie istotne, w tym tomie autorka w naprawdę doskonały sposób pokazuje nam, że Evan naprawdę jest kimś, kto może chronić tyłek Setha w czasie walki. Albowiem mężczyzna jest w stanie dzielnie stawić czoła swoim największym obawom, myśleć racjonalnie w obliczu zagrożenia oraz wykorzystać wszystkie swoje umiejętności w sytuacji, która osobę słabą pozbawiłaby ducha walki. Krótko mówiąc, w „Dark Rivers” Evan zajmuje niebywale istotne miejsce i jest jedną z największych zalet tej powieści. Czytelnik, który uwielbiał go do tej pory, teraz kocha go jeszcze bardziej i szczerze podziwia jego wewnętrzną siłę.
Równie istotny jest z całą pewnością fakt, iż Morgan Brice w tym tomie rozwija temat wpływu, jaki na Evana wywarły wydarzenia przedstawione w „Witchbane”. W poprzedniej części serii nie było na to zbyt wiele miejsca, za to w tej jest go pod dostatkiem, podobnie jak sposobności na to by dokładnie przedstawić przede wszystkim następstwa walki z uczniem czarownika. Dzięki temu mamy okazję nie tylko zbliżyć się do Evana i zajrzeć w jego psychikę, ale także poznajemy lepiej Setha, a w szczególności tę troskliwą i opiekuńczą część jego natury oraz umiejętność wykorzystania własnych doświadczeń w celu pomocy ukochanemu. W ten też sposób problem zespołu stresu pourazowego ponownie powraca do opowiadanej przez Morgan Brice historii i tym razem zostaje szerzej i dokładniej przestawiony. Co równie istotne, autorka pokazuje, że o ile z niektórymi problemami można poradzić sobie samemu, o tyle w poważniejszych przypadkach, takich jak chociażby wspomniany zespół stresu pourazowego, nawet najlepsi, najsilniejsi i najbardziej waleczni potrzebują skorzystać z pomocy specjalisty. I w tym wypadku nie bez znaczenia pozostaje fakt, iż nawet Seth jest tego w pełni świadom i sam wychodzi z inicjatywą znalezienia kogoś, kto byłby w stanie pomóc nie tylko Evanowi, ale i jemu samemu.
Za kolejną z zalet „Dark Rivers” uważam wprowadzenie do przedstawionej w tym tomie historii nowych postaci pobocznych, które stoją po tej samej stronie, co nasi protagoniści, a co najważniejsze, pojawiają się w tej historii fizycznie. Do tej pory wsparciem dla Setha i Evana byli łowcy, z którymi mieli wyłącznie kontakt telefoniczny, zaś teraz mamy okazję zaobserwować, jak tych dwoje bezpośrednio współpracuje z innymi osobami o podobnej profesji. Co więcej, jesteśmy świadkami rodzących się nowych przyjaźni. Wydaje mi się to tym istotniejsze, że czasami człowiek potrzebuje fizycznego kontaktu z drugim człowiekiem, z kimś kto go rozumie, z kim może porozmawiać i po prostu być sobą, a kto niekoniecznie będzie jego życiowym partnerem. Nie bez znaczenia jest też fakt, że poprzez wprowadzenie do tej historii nowych postaci, autorka podkreśliła fakt, iż jej główni bohaterowie są tylko ludźmi i aby osiągnąć swój cel, odnieść zwycięstwo w swojej krucjacie przeciwko uczniom czarownika potrzebują czasami pomocy innych osób. A jeśli do tego wszystkiego dodamy fakt, iż Morgan Brice jest przecież specjalistką w tworzeniu interesujących i łatwych do polubienia postaci, to nic dziwnego, że szybko i nieubłaganie zakochujemy się w jej kolejnych bohaterach.
Jeśli zaś chodzi o ogół tego tom serii, to należy zauważyć, że miejscami akcja jest zdecydowanie wolniejsza, niż chociażby w poprzedzającej tę część nowelce. Skupiamy się bowiem na jednym paranormalnym problemie, który wymaga od bohaterów pełnego zaangażowania i ogromnego nakładu pracy, jak również żmudnego podążania za wskazówkami, aby w końcu dotrzeć do czegoś wielkiego. Kiedy jednak docieramy już do momentu, w którym akcja przyspiesza to nie ma mowy o odpoczynku, czy chwili wytchnienia. Jest bowiem czas na myślenia i czas na działanie.
Muszę także zauważyć, iż w tym tomie w dużej mierze przedstawione zostają wydarzenia z części poprzedniej. O ile na pewno jest to dużym ułatwieniem dla osób, które nie czytały wcześniej „Witchbane”, to mam wrażenie, że dla czytelników znających tamtą odsłonę serii bardziej szczegółowych powrotów do pierwszego tomu jest trochę zbyt wiele. Jest to nieszkodliwe, ale zauważalne, niczym w przypadku znajomego, który kilkukrotnie opowiada nam tę samą historię z dużą liczbą szczegółów.
Podsumowując, „Dark Rivers” to niewątpliwie interesujące urban fantasy, które czyta się z ogromną przyjemnością. To także historia o miłości dwojga ludzi, którzy często w mało sprzyjających okolicznościach muszą odnaleźć swój sposób na budowanie związku, na którym im zależy. I w końcu, to powieść o sile i odwadze w stawianiu czoła przeszłości, od której nie sposób uciec oraz demonom gnieżdżącym się w ludzkiej psychice.
June 15, 2020
I listened to this one on audible, as I did books 1 and 2, which I really enjoyed. The first half of the book felt more like Seth and Evan moving forward in their relationship, the ups and downs, and Evan still dealing with PTSD with his capture. There are two plot twists that intertwine. First, Evan's ex Mike kidnaps Evan and chasing down the killer whose next target is Brandon. Surprise! Mike is working with the killer. Seth ends up getting help from Travis and Brent. There is more magic and help from ghosts. The ending had a nice hea as I don't see this relationship as a hfn anymore.
*I didn't know who Travis and Brent were so I checked out her Gail Z Martin website and found they have their own book, A Night Vigil. It's titled as book 1 but so far no other books in the series.
*I didn't know who Travis and Brent were so I checked out her Gail Z Martin website and found they have their own book, A Night Vigil. It's titled as book 1 but so far no other books in the series.
August 14, 2019
In this second addition, the boys are on the trail of the next disciple. Again the story kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the "detective" like work that goes on tracking down all the leads and connections in trying to find the bad guy. On top of that, Evan & Seth are trying to work their way through their relationship. It's not easy to come off of the trauma from book one & then basically moving in together in such tight quarters. But I have confidence, things will be okay. It's just normal relationship issues that we all go through. We get more of the secondary characters, who we only really got a glimpse of in the first book. I loved them all. They are all going need to come together as a fighting unit when it comes down to the finally showdown, or maybe sooner. In my opinion the confrontation was bigger than the first one and just as good. I can't wait for more.
Audio ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
Audio ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2021
Another interesting instalment of this series where Seth and Evan try to save the next victim of the curse.
Despite only having been together a couple of months their relationship seems solid after the wobbles in the previous books. They're still at it like bunnies--I guess escaping death on a regular basis will do that to you--so if you like your books with quite a few sex scenes then this is for you. If that doesn't float your boat you would lose no plot by skimming.
This story is clever in not revealing the bad guy too soon, so you don't really know which of the secondary characters to trust. I like that the guys gained some friends in this story and I'm looking forward to them working within more of a team framework in the next book.
Overall I enjoyed this story and the world created, and I'm looking forward to the next story in the series.
Themes: Supernatural. Witch-hunters. PTSD. Magic. Established couple.
Despite only having been together a couple of months their relationship seems solid after the wobbles in the previous books. They're still at it like bunnies--I guess escaping death on a regular basis will do that to you--so if you like your books with quite a few sex scenes then this is for you. If that doesn't float your boat you would lose no plot by skimming.
This story is clever in not revealing the bad guy too soon, so you don't really know which of the secondary characters to trust. I like that the guys gained some friends in this story and I'm looking forward to them working within more of a team framework in the next book.
Overall I enjoyed this story and the world created, and I'm looking forward to the next story in the series.
Themes: Supernatural. Witch-hunters. PTSD. Magic. Established couple.
March 21, 2021
I really think that this book was just as good as the first, if not better. The story is remaining super interesting, and I like the dynamics between Seth and Evan now that they are really getting to know each other. I liked how we had the 1.5 novella (Burn) for them to work on relationship stuff; here we seem them go right into the next case and figure out how to work as a team on the biggest hunt of their lives. I liked watching them figure out the mystery, and I loved how we met new people who helped Seth realize it is OK to have others around you to support and help. I am really loving this series. I listened to the audiobook version of this and it was wonderful. I love the narration.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
August 14, 2020
Riveting!
What a great addition to the Witchbane series! Seth and Evan are figuring out both their personal and professional relationships. Combine an evil warlock, new monster hunter friends and an evil ex-boyfriend and you’ve got a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
What a great addition to the Witchbane series! Seth and Evan are figuring out both their personal and professional relationships. Combine an evil warlock, new monster hunter friends and an evil ex-boyfriend and you’ve got a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
January 27, 2020
I liked Evan better this book.
New characters introduced, integrated well, who I think will broaden the story.
I'm enjoying it so far, and I'm hoping the story evolves more with each book.
New characters introduced, integrated well, who I think will broaden the story.
I'm enjoying it so far, and I'm hoping the story evolves more with each book.
January 9, 2021
~ 3.5 stars ~
May 31, 2019
I got this via Netgalley which in no way influenced my review. I didn't realize at the time it was book two in the series but there was plenty of backstory so I didn't feel lost. It's a lot like Supernatural only with lovers and instead of hunting demons they're after witches who perform human sacrifice to give themselves a sort of immortality. Right from the blurb :One hundred years ago, a sheriff’s posse killed dark warlock Rhyfel Gremory. With that in mind his disciples have been killing the first born sons of the posses for decades. Seth should have been killed but they got his brother Jesse instead and last book he saved his now-lover Evan from the same fate.
Seth and Evan are now in Pittsburgh (hence the titular rivers) on the trail of the next disciple under the guise of being true crime writers interested in the New Castle murder swamp killer (which stunned me because I'm from the Pittsburgh area and researched the Cleveland torso killer story which some have tried to link to this but never came across this and it is a real thing). They easily locate the next intended victim but finding the warlock is a lot harder.
I like that they are helping each other with a great deal of PTSD (Seth from seeing his brother's murder plus being a soldier earlier in his life, Evan because of a highly abusive relationship that he's been on the run from for a couple of years) and that Seth is training Evan to fight and to use some good magic so he's not cast into the 'damsal in distress' role.
There's plenty of action and Pittsburgh and its environs is almost like a character itself which I loved. I liked Seth and Evan and the introduction of a few new hunters. Is it greatly different from Supernatural or Buffy the Vampire Slayer or The Dresden Files no, not really but it doesn't have to be. Fans of UF want more of that. Would I get the next book? Yes. Would I go back and read book one that I missed? Honestly no. There is SO much of what happened there repeated in this that I feel like I know that whole story. Maybe it is a bit too much.
I wasn't a huge fan of how much they say I love you. That's a me thing. It always sort of bugs me if they're constantly dropping the I love yous. What isn't a 'me thing' was one problem I had with the story that almost cost it a star (and maybe should have) but it's a spoiler so let me cut it
Seth and Evan are now in Pittsburgh (hence the titular rivers) on the trail of the next disciple under the guise of being true crime writers interested in the New Castle murder swamp killer (which stunned me because I'm from the Pittsburgh area and researched the Cleveland torso killer story which some have tried to link to this but never came across this and it is a real thing). They easily locate the next intended victim but finding the warlock is a lot harder.
I like that they are helping each other with a great deal of PTSD (Seth from seeing his brother's murder plus being a soldier earlier in his life, Evan because of a highly abusive relationship that he's been on the run from for a couple of years) and that Seth is training Evan to fight and to use some good magic so he's not cast into the 'damsal in distress' role.
There's plenty of action and Pittsburgh and its environs is almost like a character itself which I loved. I liked Seth and Evan and the introduction of a few new hunters. Is it greatly different from Supernatural or Buffy the Vampire Slayer or The Dresden Files no, not really but it doesn't have to be. Fans of UF want more of that. Would I get the next book? Yes. Would I go back and read book one that I missed? Honestly no. There is SO much of what happened there repeated in this that I feel like I know that whole story. Maybe it is a bit too much.
I wasn't a huge fan of how much they say I love you. That's a me thing. It always sort of bugs me if they're constantly dropping the I love yous. What isn't a 'me thing' was one problem I had with the story that almost cost it a star (and maybe should have) but it's a spoiler so let me cut it
November 1, 2018
I’m already a huge fan of this series, and this author. Dark Rivers is a great addition to her Witchbane series. I couldn’t put it down. The author writes a fabulous, edge-of-seat action scene, and I had to keep reading to make sure (spoiler) was okay.
I loved the addition of new characters to this story and in particular Travis and Brent who are the MCs from a forthcoming new series. It was great having a wider team come together to face off against the bad guy, with each man bringing his own skill set to the table. Series which are a part of a bigger universe and interconnect have always been a big draw card for me, and I had a few squee moments when one of my other favourites had a cameo. I also love the way the author is building a family of hunters, each having their own stories to tell, but with the potential to turn up in each other’s series to help each other out.
As with the first book in the series, Seth and Evan take alternating 3rd person POV. I thought this worked very well, as it gave insight into each other’s characters. I liked how their relationship is still developing, considering they’ve only been together a short time, and that although they love being together, they still cherish having time apart. It’s a good sign of a healthy relationship, and shows how far they’ve come in building trust. I also thought it gave the story and the characters an edge of realism that they both still suffer from PTSD because of their past experiences.
This story really showed how far Evan, in particular, has come since he was first introduced to the world of monster hunter, and I loved that way he used his newly developed skills. Very nicely done! Another thing I appreciate about these guys is that they do their research, and that always includes a library.
The city of Pittsburgh felt like a character of its own in this story, and I enjoyed all the references to different places, together with their history. It gave a fabulous sense of the story being part of wider world, and as always the world building and magic comes across as detailed, well thought-out, and thoroughly researched.
I’d recommend Dark Rivers to readers who enjoy urban fantasy with edge-of-your seat action scenes, realistic characters who are part of a wider universe, and a story that leaves you satisfied but wanting more in the series.
I loved the addition of new characters to this story and in particular Travis and Brent who are the MCs from a forthcoming new series. It was great having a wider team come together to face off against the bad guy, with each man bringing his own skill set to the table. Series which are a part of a bigger universe and interconnect have always been a big draw card for me, and I had a few squee moments when one of my other favourites had a cameo. I also love the way the author is building a family of hunters, each having their own stories to tell, but with the potential to turn up in each other’s series to help each other out.
As with the first book in the series, Seth and Evan take alternating 3rd person POV. I thought this worked very well, as it gave insight into each other’s characters. I liked how their relationship is still developing, considering they’ve only been together a short time, and that although they love being together, they still cherish having time apart. It’s a good sign of a healthy relationship, and shows how far they’ve come in building trust. I also thought it gave the story and the characters an edge of realism that they both still suffer from PTSD because of their past experiences.
This story really showed how far Evan, in particular, has come since he was first introduced to the world of monster hunter, and I loved that way he used his newly developed skills. Very nicely done! Another thing I appreciate about these guys is that they do their research, and that always includes a library.
The city of Pittsburgh felt like a character of its own in this story, and I enjoyed all the references to different places, together with their history. It gave a fabulous sense of the story being part of wider world, and as always the world building and magic comes across as detailed, well thought-out, and thoroughly researched.
I’d recommend Dark Rivers to readers who enjoy urban fantasy with edge-of-your seat action scenes, realistic characters who are part of a wider universe, and a story that leaves you satisfied but wanting more in the series.
August 26, 2019
I enjoyed this one - so far, out of the 3 books released, this one was my favorite. It was suspenseful & not predictable. I felt on pins & needles at times, wanting to see how things would work out. There seemed to be a delightful increase in dry wit. The story introduces new characters that I hope will continue to pop up, or who will get additional spin-offs, even if just a short here & there. (I do know that Badlands series cross over a teensy bit). There was still a possible over-abundance of sex, as with the first couple books, but the pacing with that was better, with a lot more going on in between to temper their over-active hormones. I keep telling myself that they are 2 guys in their 20s who are still in that infatuation state, so a bit of randiness might be normal, even in between gory battles & life or death moments.
There were some slight continuity issues - odd little things, like they'd decide to do a particular task, mundane or magical, there'd be a slight digression in conversation, & then they'd do something entirely different, with the reason for the change in plans unmentioned. They also seemed to be able to accomplish WAY too much in too short a time between when they'd met & where they were at this time, so far as skills & work. There's a serious lack of realism at times in the practical matters of life, but again, this is a story with warlocks & monsters of all kinds, so perhaps one doesn't need to be so picky about those details. And all of this didn't affect general characterization or suspense, but as with the previous two books, I sometimes felt like the story could've been made better with more time spent in between each mission.
The narration was good - there were a couple tiny slip-ups, but I think Williams has done a great job of differentiating pacing & putting in the right emotion.
All in all, I am looking forward to the next installment, despite my little quirky caveats.
There were some slight continuity issues - odd little things, like they'd decide to do a particular task, mundane or magical, there'd be a slight digression in conversation, & then they'd do something entirely different, with the reason for the change in plans unmentioned. They also seemed to be able to accomplish WAY too much in too short a time between when they'd met & where they were at this time, so far as skills & work. There's a serious lack of realism at times in the practical matters of life, but again, this is a story with warlocks & monsters of all kinds, so perhaps one doesn't need to be so picky about those details. And all of this didn't affect general characterization or suspense, but as with the previous two books, I sometimes felt like the story could've been made better with more time spent in between each mission.
The narration was good - there were a couple tiny slip-ups, but I think Williams has done a great job of differentiating pacing & putting in the right emotion.
All in all, I am looking forward to the next installment, despite my little quirky caveats.
December 27, 2020
Seth y Evan persiguen al proximo discipulo de Gremory (ahora en Pitsburgh), pero pensaban que tenian hasta el proximo dia de accion de gracias, pero al parecer el discipulo (Noson Thane) decidio adelantar el sacrificio, por lo que despues de que ubican a la victima (Brandon) deciden estar vigilantes, mientras descubren la nueva identidad del discipulo.
Mientras tanto otra pareja de cazadores (esta vez un ex-FBI, Brent y ex-cura - fuerzas especiales, Tristan) estan en la zona, intentado averiguar que es lo que buscan Seth y Evan, y al descubrir que el novio de uno de sus amigos e investigador privado Alex esta en riesgo, deciden ayudar a enfrentar y eliminar a Thane.
Y mientras todo el grupo aprende a trabajar juntos, Seth y Evan tambien deben enfrentar a un ex-novio celoso que quiere de regreso. Su relacion cada vez mas fuerte, pero todavia con muchas dudas, todavia mucho que probar, pero cada vez mas decididos a que juntos es donde quieren estar.
El libro esta lleno de mucha accion y aventuras, la relacion entre Seth y Evan cada vez mas solida, pero todavia con agujeros. Ahora, la forma como describen al ex de Evan (Mark) es bastante perturbadora, apenas lo señalan como un loco-posesivo que lo que quiere es controlar y maltratar a Evan, pero mas alla de eso no sabemos nada de la relacion de ellos dos. Quizas no es importante para la trama, pero deja un agujero en la personalidad de Evan antes de huir.
Ahora, los nuevos personajes, me imagino que son parte de otros libros, ya que mencionan que acaban de liberar una batalla "apocaliptica", y de la rama de la iglesia que tiene un grupo de curas que enfrentan lo demoniaco, ese es un libro que se perfila interesante, voy a buscarlo.
De resto, la serie hasta ahora esta interesante, mucho mas facil de seguir ahora que conoces un poco mas los personajes y el universo donde se desenvuelven. Continuare con la serie y espero que pueda completarla.
Mientras tanto otra pareja de cazadores (esta vez un ex-FBI, Brent y ex-cura - fuerzas especiales, Tristan) estan en la zona, intentado averiguar que es lo que buscan Seth y Evan, y al descubrir que el novio de uno de sus amigos e investigador privado Alex esta en riesgo, deciden ayudar a enfrentar y eliminar a Thane.
Y mientras todo el grupo aprende a trabajar juntos, Seth y Evan tambien deben enfrentar a un ex-novio celoso que quiere de regreso. Su relacion cada vez mas fuerte, pero todavia con muchas dudas, todavia mucho que probar, pero cada vez mas decididos a que juntos es donde quieren estar.
El libro esta lleno de mucha accion y aventuras, la relacion entre Seth y Evan cada vez mas solida, pero todavia con agujeros. Ahora, la forma como describen al ex de Evan (Mark) es bastante perturbadora, apenas lo señalan como un loco-posesivo que lo que quiere es controlar y maltratar a Evan, pero mas alla de eso no sabemos nada de la relacion de ellos dos. Quizas no es importante para la trama, pero deja un agujero en la personalidad de Evan antes de huir.
Ahora, los nuevos personajes, me imagino que son parte de otros libros, ya que mencionan que acaban de liberar una batalla "apocaliptica", y de la rama de la iglesia que tiene un grupo de curas que enfrentan lo demoniaco, ese es un libro que se perfila interesante, voy a buscarlo.
De resto, la serie hasta ahora esta interesante, mucho mas facil de seguir ahora que conoces un poco mas los personajes y el universo donde se desenvuelven. Continuare con la serie y espero que pueda completarla.
November 8, 2018
Witches, Magic, and Mystery meet in this MM romance with a chosen family theme
3.5 stars
*I received an ARC and voluntarily reviewed this book*
This is the second book in the Witchbane series and really should not be read as a standalone. This book is a continuation of where book 1 left off and continues to follow Evan and Seth through more hunting and relationship adventures.
This was a good book. I would say it was better than book 1. The author took the criticism of book 1 having too much sexy time and paired it down in book 2. It is closer to 80% plot 20% romance in book 2.
I worried about all the witch hunting being a series because that would be 12 books with a very similar pattern. This book was similar to book 1 in that there was a target that needed protecting and info gathering to find out who done it before it was too late. I felt that while some things were similar to book 1 this broadened our information about other hunters and filled us in a tiny bit more on the world and what paranormal beasts reside in it.
I felt the book had more magical moments which were nice. I liked to see that Evan has found a role in the hunting team. I liked that Evan and Seth find some help in this book and form a bit of a “chosen family”. I like that they found friendship through their struggles. I also like to see progress in tying up older plot points- getting rid of loose ends- literally.
Overall, it was a good book. I am interested to see how the author changes up the format of these stories to keep the interest through 12 disciples. Maybe some of them will be off page adventures? Either way, I am intrigued and look forward to the next adventure.
3.5 stars
*I received an ARC and voluntarily reviewed this book*
This is the second book in the Witchbane series and really should not be read as a standalone. This book is a continuation of where book 1 left off and continues to follow Evan and Seth through more hunting and relationship adventures.
This was a good book. I would say it was better than book 1. The author took the criticism of book 1 having too much sexy time and paired it down in book 2. It is closer to 80% plot 20% romance in book 2.
I worried about all the witch hunting being a series because that would be 12 books with a very similar pattern. This book was similar to book 1 in that there was a target that needed protecting and info gathering to find out who done it before it was too late. I felt that while some things were similar to book 1 this broadened our information about other hunters and filled us in a tiny bit more on the world and what paranormal beasts reside in it.
I felt the book had more magical moments which were nice. I liked to see that Evan has found a role in the hunting team. I liked that Evan and Seth find some help in this book and form a bit of a “chosen family”. I like that they found friendship through their struggles. I also like to see progress in tying up older plot points- getting rid of loose ends- literally.
Overall, it was a good book. I am interested to see how the author changes up the format of these stories to keep the interest through 12 disciples. Maybe some of them will be off page adventures? Either way, I am intrigued and look forward to the next adventure.
October 24, 2019
Be prepared. With each book I read/listen to in this series, I like it more and more. I know I struggled in the beginning, but this one is getting better with each release.
Story: 4 stars
Seth and Evan are on the trail of another witch disciple, only things are getting harder. The would-be victim has gone missing, people are interfering, and the witch disciple may actually know that they are there, which means an early kill. Will they get there in time? You'll have to find out on your own.
This story pulled me in almost immediately. Now, don't get me wrong, I think Evan and Seth have a long way to go, but they are getting better. Now if only they would work on their communication, and there are times when they act more childish than I would like. That said, the story is well-written and I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Each book pulls me further into the plotline, making it harder to put away the book.
Narration: 4.5 stars
Kale Williams has done another great job of bringing these characters and the story to life. He makes each voice/character unique and it is easy to follow along. His narration only enhances the story instead of distracting.
Overall: 4 stars
All in all, this book was great and the narration added to the story, bringing it to life even more than the words on a page. The emotions and suspense run high, and there were a couple of times I was holding my breath to see what happened next. I highly recommend this book and give an overall rating of 4 stars. One-click today!
Story: 4 stars
Seth and Evan are on the trail of another witch disciple, only things are getting harder. The would-be victim has gone missing, people are interfering, and the witch disciple may actually know that they are there, which means an early kill. Will they get there in time? You'll have to find out on your own.
This story pulled me in almost immediately. Now, don't get me wrong, I think Evan and Seth have a long way to go, but they are getting better. Now if only they would work on their communication, and there are times when they act more childish than I would like. That said, the story is well-written and I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Each book pulls me further into the plotline, making it harder to put away the book.
Narration: 4.5 stars
Kale Williams has done another great job of bringing these characters and the story to life. He makes each voice/character unique and it is easy to follow along. His narration only enhances the story instead of distracting.
Overall: 4 stars
All in all, this book was great and the narration added to the story, bringing it to life even more than the words on a page. The emotions and suspense run high, and there were a couple of times I was holding my breath to see what happened next. I highly recommend this book and give an overall rating of 4 stars. One-click today!
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