Mystic Caravan Circus is in flux. Things are shifting in the organization, new faces are joining the fray, and manager Poet Parker isn’t certain how to deal with it. Unfortunately for her, she doesn’t have time to figure it out. Kentucky is on the horizon, and a roadside accident that claims a family has caught Poet’s attention. She’s haunted by what she sees … and dreams that show her nothing but snapping teeth and flowing blood. They’ve been to the area before – Mammoth Caves is a big draw – but something appears to be amiss. It isn’t long until Poet realizes exactly what that something is … vampires. They’re nesting and taking over the entire town. Vampires are nothing new when fighting monsters with a paranormal circus. These vampires, however, are different. They’re stronger … and faster … and deadlier. In fact, they’re something older and more ruthless, and Poet has no idea how to take on this new enemy. When the vampires come for one of Mystic Caravan’s own, the time for debate is over. They live as a family. They’ll die as one, too, if need be. Poet has fought wars before but this one is going to get bloody. It’s going to take everyone working together to overcome this enemy. Even then nothing is guaranteed.
When I was a kid, I was torn between whether or not I was going to grow up and be the Incredible Hulk or Wonder Woman. I flirted with being a Jedi Knight for awhile, but I wasn't up for the intense travel associated with the gig. In my teens, I settled on being a writer -- although I had no idea the effort that would entail. Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
Freaky Fangs was an interesting take on vampires. I enjoyed the plot line, but I was annoyed with the heroine at times. Other than that, I liked this one and I look forward to more.
Poet is one of my all-time favorite characters! She makes me laugh, cry and sometimes I do both at the same time. I “get” Ms. Lee’s wicked sense of humor and her books light up my world.
I've recently picked this series back up after having a bit of a break from it for a while. I feel like the break did me good as I'm enjoying the books as much as I did when I first discovered them.
This instalment sees Poet and Co. in Kentucky, after finding a car accident on their way to their new location, things take a turn for the worst. People are disappearing in this town, and have been for many years. There seems to be an extremely large nest of vampires in the area and they are amassing an army. While poet tries to solve the problem, she's also trying to come to terms with the fact that Cole, Luke's possible boyfriend. Cole has taken some leave after they met him on an earlier mission and has joined them to travel for a little while so that him and Luke can get to know each other a bit better. Cole is supernatural as well so this helps the gang considerably as they don't need to hide their extra curricular activities from him.
I will admit, at first, I had absolutely no freaking clue who Cole was. He wasn't in the previous instalment and then it dawned on me, we meet him in the novella titled Luke on the Loose. I loved Cole's character in that short, and I remember hoping that we'd see more of him. It was a bit confusing because he isn't mentioned in the previous book at all, and I'm fairly certain that Luke on the Loose is book 7.5, so I found that a little odd. Otherwise, once I remembered who Cole was things slotted into place and I carried on my merry way.
Kade is still just as annoying as ever and I don't think I'll ever like him. He needs to protect Poet from every single little thing, when she's been doing just fine on her own up until she met him. So it annoys me a bit. I understand loving someone and wanting to protect them from all the nasty stuff in the world, but dude, give her a little bit of breathing room, she's perfectly capable of handling most situations.
Other than those two small things, this was another great read in this series and I'll be picking the next one up soon :)
All of this authors books have a somewhat serious undertone but the humor generally out weights it. This series tends more towards the serious with a sprinkle of humor. They deal with some very dangerous enemies and do it well. Poet is a great character that you can admire and like. The only thing that bothered me a bit was how Kade talked to her in the beginning.
One of the things I like about The Mystic Caravan series is that Poet is so unlike - personality wise - than Lee's other characters. Yes, on paper, they line up in many ways, but as written, Poet stands out as a strong, confident heroine. In this tale, she had a shakey start, sounding more like many of Lee's more juvenile acting characters. I understand that Poet was jealous of circumstances between Luke and his new boyfriend, but it was handled in a very un- Poet manner.
In fact, Cole was given more prime time in this story than either Kade or Luke. I wasn't happy to see Kade sidelined in the last book, but this was another instance where he's been relegated to a minor supporting role. Kade, as a character has much room to grow. I hate to see him getting short shifted.
To the good, a strength of this writer is her stories. This was an interesting story set in a very interesting area. Vampires in Kentucky, now that's fun! If you can get beyond an out of character (at first) Poet, you'll enjoy the story.
I'm hoping there is more Kade, more of his growth as a mage, more of the hopefully growing relationship between him and Poet, in the next outing. I really hope this series isn't beginning a death spiral like several others by this author have.
On what should be an easy.stop on the circus route. The troupe has performed there many times with no trouble Poet and Kade run across a car accident close to the campsite, it's a family, all dead and Poet is left feeling very disturbed in the aftermath. Returning to the accident site with Cole (Lukes new friend) they discover evidence of vampires a lot of them. Before long the whole troupe finds themselves fighting for their very survival. It's a fight they can't afford to loose as the stakes are far higher than anything they have ever faced before. Cole who.we met in the last book is a good fit for Luke and in the circus a magical being himself he already fights monsters in his job as a police officer, the question is whether he can adjust to the way the circus operates and fight their way. This is another great entry into an entertaining series full of amazing characters including the Pixie twins, a bad tempered Lamia and a cross.dressing Dwarf.
As they reach their latest destination Poet senses kick in and they discover a vehicle that appears to have crashed off the road. Calling in the state police doesn't give them the answers they need but a dream provides some of the answers, and a, friendship affirming, trip to the site with Cole brings more.
Vampires, not just a few, but an army. They have strength in their massive numbers and from something else.. what is going to take them time to work out. It's also going to create division as they face the possibility of losing some of their own.
Poet's plan to get answers creates tension which only rises as they make a daring, life risking rescue. Can Luke forgive her? Will they finally free the local community without losing anyone else?
The best yet. I love the depth this reaches as the drama unfolds. The interplays between Poet, Kade, Luke and Cole as a family and then the power and sibling like rivalries and teamwork between Poet, Raven, Naida, Nixie and now Cole. Brilliant.
This is one of my favorite series and Amanda made it even better with this change. I'm this book, there are lots of changes. Good changes, but changes all the same. I love the new dynamic. When they crew head to Kentucky, they come across an accident scene that haunts Poet. Nothing is as it seems in the small town. Disturbing dreams and a new kind of for to fight, this book is action packed. I love that Cole took his vacation time to come along with the Mystic Caravan crew and to see how things go with Luke. As with all battles, there are casualties and serious injuries, that hit too close to home, and within the fold. I was happy they went to Hannah's side of the mountain. Crossover soon? This book made me laugh a lot, made me sad and had me cheering for the good guys. I love all the powers the crew was displaying. I love this series and hope it LONG continues. Wish of could give it more stars.
This series is one of my favorite by this author. This book had the team facing the largest foe yet. A new character is introduced. I like the new character. I missed Luke's short story introducing Cole, so I will have to read that. I like the direction this book went. Adding another powerful, experienced magic user seems to indicate the Circus will take on larger foes. At the beginning of the book Post was not herself. She was dealing with Luke starting a serious relationship. It did not seem in character, but led to opportunities to introduce Cole in positive interactions with Poet. I was glad that situation resolved itself fairly quickly. This book was well paced and a good read. As always, the book was clean and humorous. If you like Amanda M Lee's series, you should enjoy this one.
The Mystic Caravan Circus returns to Kentucky for the first time this series. Before arriving, Poet senses something dark and finds a car crashed over the side of a cliff. This darkness has remained hidden during their previous visits to Kentucky, but not this visit. This book is full of paranormal lore that was new to me and I love fangy paranormals. Luke's new boyfriend is on vacation and spending it with the circus. Melissa is still suffering from their visit to California, one member goes missing, one member gets bit and not everyone can be saved. Nellie, the cross dressing, axe wielding paranormal dwarf gets more page time (which is always entertaining), and we learn a little more about the ancient Lamia, Raven. I am glad I returned to this series, it seems fresh and new again as relationships mature.
In this book, the gang come across some very special vampires that are very different to the usual kind. They pose a much bigger threat than normal. When someone from the circus is targeted and it brings about a more serious danger to the members of the circus. This book felt more different than usual. The threat felt very personal and more immediate. It was something they hadn't dealt with before. It felt like reading a book about war and the tactics that are apparent. Poet is feeling negative about Luke new boyfriend Cole. Things are tense. When the danger gets too close then Poet has to take on the help of everyone to protect the town. There was quite a few emotional moments in the story. I can't wait for the next instalment in this series.
A car accident leads to a bigger discovery and lots of danger at an usually benign site.
What I enjoyed: * I like the characters in this story and this time we have Cole joining us. He is a great addition. * It was interesting how the team had to think outside the box since * I was sorry
What could have been better: * * they survived by a lot of luck
This is my favorite series my Amanda Lee. The books are all unique with different types of mysteries. Lee does have a bit of similarities in all of her series especially with some of the central characters but she seems to be diversifying somewhat. Lee seems to hold back the overly cutsie parts of the relationship between Poet and Kade which is why I enjoy this series so much. I'm really not into relationships in books that seem overly dramatic and too cute to be real but this book really doesn't do this. I hope Lee continues with this series and I'm looking forward to reading more book in the series.
I love this series! The premise of the story is out of the box. Not the usual cozy paranormal mystery. The characters are all well rounded and developed. Each draw upon the strengths of the others. I live the relationship between Poet and Luke. And Kade is an understanding boyfriend. He allows Poet to be herself without being too overprotective. And now Cole has joined the group...but will he choose to stay with the circus or have a long distance relationship with Luke?
You can read this as a stand-alone but I don’t recommend it. Start at the beginning and get to know (and love) all the freaky weird love able characters in this series.
I always look online for more books by this author, but this series is by far my favorite! This book was particularly good! The rapport the main character has with all of the circus employees is great, especially with Luke. If you are wanting a good book to read, read this book, but if you want several books to read start at the beginning, you won't be disappointed! I even started at the beginning awhile back and thinking about doing it again. One thing I really like about this author, when she starts the next book she tells enough about the characters without boring you to tears.
I really love the growth of the characters in these books. Raven and Luke are growing. Raven is becoming more human. Luke is becoming an adult. Poet reverts slightly to a less mature version of herself in the beginning of the book, but she finds her way to becoming the Poet we all know and love. Besides her character is true to real life, no matter how mature and responsible we are, there are just somethings that can cause you to revert to your teen years. I loved this book.
I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE this author and read everything I can of hers! I really enjoy this series because it’s unique and there’s nothing like it out there! I love all of the characters which is rare in a series, and there are many in this . I am happy With the addition of Cole, he fits in so well! miss Lees books are always funny and well thought out with lots of action and side drama! The only problem I have is I can’t wait for the next one! I never want it to stop! Just awesome!
Love this series and this author! The setting is one I was not sure about at first, a traveling circus, but has quickly become one of my favorite series! Strong female characters, lots of supernatural creatures, mystery, snark, and romance make this an excellent series! If you enjoy those things you’ll enjoy this series! I would encourage you to read the books in order as there are some storylines that carry over even though each book has a mystery that is wrapped up by the end.
I can't say it's my favorite series by Amanda Lee because she writes so many that I enjoy!
As always I enjoy reading about Poet, a mind reader in mystic Caravan Circus that is the "real deal". In this story the monster hunting circus must face vampires (and more) that have almost taken over an entire town.
My only criticism of this story is that Raven's love interest, although talked about in the 3rd person, is never really present which seems odd.
Otherwise, as always, this is such an enjoyable read!
I love this book series so much! Of all of Amanda's leading ladies I think Poet ties at the top for me with Aisling. Her relationship with Luke is such a beautiful friendship and explains true unconditional love from a platonic friend love that most women would die to have. I liked the new factor of Cole and rounding their lives out with a 4th member that balances them well. This book didnt really go into her relationship with Kade as much but it still gave you the warm and fuzzies as usual. 5 stars well done!
Wow this one went out there with the creepy, freaky and I looooved it so much. Vampires with a difference are wreaking havoc Poet and the gang are going to stop them and omg talk about a battle and a half this was an absolutely brilliant story and I love Cole so much he is a fantastic addition.
Everything about this story ticked all of my favorite boxes, great characters, new and old, well written character development, a brilliant plot and a mystery that kept me guessing I just loved it.
An entertaining supernatural action packed cozy mystery series
Action packed supernatural cozy mystery series. A fun and entertaining group of characters in an action packed storyline. A traveling circus that is meant by supernaturals and humans working together traveling around the country entertaining people and then they’re off hours the supernaturals hunt down evil and destroy it. Follow along with an eclectic group of characters that mesh well together and put down evil whether it is supernatural or human. Check it out
The circus has moved to a new town and a new enemy is targeting Poet and her caravan. This enemy is not one that the crew has ever heard of except for the oldest of the group. The battle is bigger then ever and the stakes are high as members of the group are targeted. That's all I can say without giving away spoilers.
I liked watching the relationship between Luke and Cole grow. Cole is an interesting character and can't wait to see him in the future.
How do I review a series that is so outstanding? If you like quirky, complicated and sarcastic characters, this book is for you. The book is a stand alone, but I highly recommend you start the series from the beginning in order for you to understand the characters and background. Dolph has a little bigger role than usual and it was interesting to see more about him. Nelly is simply Nelly and is an absolute hoot! Poet grew up a little more in this book, and it was fun to see her fight it and then embrace it. I love this series!!!
I love the continuing adventures of the Mystic Caravan Circus. Each book keeps you immersed in their world. The creatures that they fight are awesome. I love the characters. The love\ hate relationships and The bonds that are forged, are great. I find I can relate to some of them. The relationships are real and it shows that we can choose the family that we surround ourselves with.
Mystic Caravan series is or of my favorite by this Author and this book was just as great as the rest in the series. It's often hard to give a review becAuse I don't want to give away any part of the story. That being said. I know how important reviews are . So all I can say is this book is fantastic couldn't put it down till I finished it just like the rest in the series.
I've read all of the Mystic Caravan books - in fact I 've binge read them, and many of her other books as well. I just love her writing style and her marvelous imagination, and the way she makes her characters come to life. I should also mention that although this review will appear to be coming from Richard Bambridge it is actually coming from his wife, Addie, since I am the one who reads all the books using his kindle unlimited account.
The vampires in this town have been there for awhile, long enough to make an army and infiltrate the town's political and legal systems. It's a mix of old vampires, newly made vampires, and one that defies normal vamp intelligence; she still has a sense of self. And that self wants to take out Mystic Caravan circus and everyone in it. But they have underestimated their prey, this circus has lots of magic.
This was an awesome book. The Circus gang all involved but, a few were lost. Some were saved as well. The battle could be a big mess, especially when the players are not all aware of the moves necessary. All is well that ends well....again...right? I loved this book and the entire series so far. I highly recommend this book, series and all the others by this inkslinger. Off to read the next one.
This story starts with dead bodies before we reach our next carnival site in Hemlock Falls. Poet senses something wrong as they near their destination and locates a traffic accident with 4 dead bodies.
One of the joys of these stories is that we get introduced to a new location and new people at the beginning of each adventure. Instead of feeling formulaic, it allows us to enjoy the world building of a new town and new people.