A life-and-death situation changes everything, and Kirsten has to make fast decisions about how badly she wants to live, and in what form. She’s steadfastly maintained she’s Only Human, but what if she suddenly isn’t?
Unhuman Acts is two books in one, listed as Part One and Part Two.
Note: This is book seven in an urban fantasy series that must be read in order. The series starts with Only Human.
Candace Blevins writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, epic fantasy contemporary BDSM romance, and two kick-ass motorcycle club series. She’s published more than fifty books. Candace lives with her husband of twenty-four years and their two teenaged daughters. The family’s beloved, goofy, retired racing greyhounds are usually at her side as she writes, quietly keeping her company. Or sometimes not so quietly.
Her urban fantasy series, Only Human, gives us a world where weredragons, werewolves, werelions, three different species of vampires, and a variety of other mythological beings exist.
Candace's various paranormal romance series are all sister series to the Only Human series, and give some secondary characters their happily ever after.
Her Dark(ish) Faerie Tale series gives us a close-up and personal look at Queen Mab, and her Dark Underbelly series is, as you’d expect, dark and (if you’re a little twisted) oh-so-yummy.
Her contemporary Safeword series gives us characters who happen to have some extreme kinks. Relationships can be difficult enough without throwing power exchange into the mix, and her books show characters who care enough about each other to fight to make the relationship work. Each couple in the Safeword series gives the reader a different take on the lifestyle.
Stay up to date on Candace’s newest releases, and get exclusive excerpts by joining her mailing list at http://bit.ly/cb-new-release.
Only Human series, urban fantasy • Only Human • An Unhuman Journey • Of Humans and Monsters • Defining Human • Edge of Humanity • Infinitely Human • Unhuman Acts
Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Club • Duke • Brain • Bash Volume I • Bash Volume II • Bash Volume III • Horse • Gonzo • Nix • Ghost • Bud • Razor • Bubbles • McGyver
Cat out of Hell, series, paranormal romance: • Cat out of Hell Volume I • Cat out of Hell Volume II • Cat out of Hell Volume III
The Dark Underbelly of The Chattanooga Supernaturals • Pride (A short story featuring The Lion King) • Indentured Freedom: Owned by the Vampire • Leashed • An Elegant Weapon
A Dark(ish) Faerie Tale • Slave • Lady • Consort • Queen
A Paranormal Halloween, paranormal romance • Hallowed Destiny – Forged by Darkness • Unhallowed Murder • Countdown to Murder • Unholy Murder
Pleasure Times Four Christmas series, ménage/RH paranormal romance • Unexpected Gifts • The Gift • Present Tense • Imperfect Gifts
Chattanooga Supernaturals series, paranormal romance: • The Dragon King • Riding the Storm • Acceptable Risk • Careful What You Ask For • Uncaged • Cocky Queen
The Safeword series, intense BDSM contemporary romance • Safeword Rainbow • Safeword: Davenport • Safewords: Davenport and Chiffon • Safeword: Quinacridone • Safeword: Matte • Safeword: Matte – In Training • No Safeword: Matte – The Honeymoon • No Safeword: Matte – Happily Ever After • Safeword: Arabesque • Safeword: Mayday (TBA)
The calm before the storm is broken. The buildup for the big showdown between good and evil takes place in this final book in this series. All hell has broken loose and it does not look as if the good guys are going to win. This book is brimming with tragedy, tears and torture. For a jaded reader whose read most permutations of epic battles between good and evil, Ms. Blevins manages to bring a fresh, dare I say, Eastern perspective. I loved this book. For the most part, I rarely feel emotion other than rage and anger. Sadness is a hard earned emotion to pull from me because of how I've been raised. Perhaps this is why when a book can generate sadness and make my heart hurt, I tend to like it better. Like a drug addict chasing their next high, I'm a tragedy junkie searching for the next scenario that makes me gasp in pain and be unable to process the amount of loss. I'm so moved, I can't cry because I'm reeling from the emotional gut punch and sneaky left hook to my temple.
This is not to scare of readers who fear angst and sadness. This story is oddly well balance with the intertwining light and joy through the grief and anger. The compare and contrast between great loss and incredible gain is intense and pulls me into the story. For those who are paradoxical and want both realism and fantasy at the same time, Ms. Blevins accomplishes this with such ease that when the story concludes, a reader wants to dive right back into this amazing world she's created. The ability to blend different culture's mythos and show how certain gods and goddess go by different names depending on the country/ethnic group is impressive. It shows the amount of research and thought Ms. Blevins puts into how she creates her world. It also adds layers and subtext to explain some of the frustrating behaviours of these powerful supernatural males.
All but one of the plots and subplots in this series is nicely tied up by the end of the book. It is strongly suggested to read all the previous books in the series prior to reading this one to understand the full magnitude of the war. Even after reading all the previous books and finishing this one, I felt this last book was nice and long and yet too short. It left me wanting more. What happens after this happily ever after: Kristen's existent is finally explained and yet there are still pieces left unexplored. Her growth and development continues in her epic quest and yet it feels she is just starting anew. Because there is a specific recurring theme in this story… death and rebirth.
This is a concept of rebirth that is left out of most Western cultures is because of pseudo Christian leanings. If we take a look at the heart of most religions, a central concept is about the cycle of life. It may not be rebirth of the same individual but it deals with death in a way that is meant to help the survivors. This tale embodies surviving loss in such a beautiful way that it makes me rethink on what I want to happen to my body when I die. The honour, respect and legacy left behind for all the fallen heroes brings peace and joy in the face of great sorrow. This is what I mean by Ms. Blevin's ability to blend opposing emotions and transforming it into something that feels good.
This book is not all about battle, death and gloom. I tend to focus on such themes. There is sex in this book which snuck in unexpectedly and shot me to the moon in ecstasy. With such a serious plot development, I did not expect Kirsten to be able to find her happily ever with a mate. I'm pleasantly surprised by the resolution even if I'm not sure I like who she ends up with. Reservations aside, the sexual interlude is an act reaffirming life, love and joy. It is transcendental and described with such passion that I wish I could have enjoyed the spillage of la petite mort from Kirsten. The kinky sex works well into the storyline and makes sense to those who have a more than average knowledge of Fae and their unreserved enjoyment of sexual expression.
There is so much to this story that I must read it again and savour each favourite passage over and over again. So many to choose from and so little time. Ms. Blevins creates a magical world stealing me away just like the Erlkönig kidnaps children. Except I'm a willing captive who never wants to return to reality. I highly recommend this urban fantasy to readers who enjoy high fantasy, star crossed lovers and meddling gods.
Unhuman Acts is the conclusion to the Only Human series and I was ecstatic with how Candace Blevins brought this somewhat complicated but totally engrossing series to an end.
The story was set in Part 1 and Part 2. Part 1 was sometimes confusing but, if the series is read in order, made sense. The battle for mankind is how I read it. And, what a battle it was. It also set up Part 2 which was my favorite part of the story. I knew that there was a rhyme and reason to how this was written and was totally riveted to the story hoping that it would bring me to the conclusion that I was praying for. I had hope, deep down in my bones, that Candace would give me what I had been wishing for. She did … with a little twist. But, the twist made sense and made the story a little more interesting.
Yes, I was sad with some of the things that happened but, there had to be casualties. But, who they were totally surprised me. I was happy that Cora came into her own … thrilled that Kirsten did too. But, most of all I was satisfied with the conclusion. No, there were a few things that weren’t tied up in a neat little bow which could only mean that we may be visiting with these wonderful characters again in the future.
So, if you are wondering why I am being so obtuse with this review, there’s a good reason for it. First of all … no spoilers. With that said, there is no way that you can describe Kirsten’s transformation into the woman that she became, the decisions she had to make, the forgiveness that was always in her heart but she fought with. The love that she exuded throughout the story, even when she was hurt or mad as hell, was just who she was. She showed us what it is like to love, unconditionally.
Kudos, Candace Blevins, on bringing this story to a powerful and emotional ending. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Kirsten, Lauren, Cora and the rest of this wonderful cast of characters that are to numerous to mention. And, thank you for allowing us to venture into this world with you and for giving us an ending that could only make us smile.
This book started out with a bang and kept me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what was going to happen next!!!We finally get to see Kirsten's HEA and to say it went the way I hoped is awesome. If you haven't read this series, I strongly suggest you do. I love all of the Only Human series!!! But this one is so good. I am ready to cry knowing this series is ending though Ms Blevins assures us we will still get to see our favorite people in other stories.
I liked Kirsten from the moment I read the first book. Watching her find herself has been a journey all it's own. So be sure and give this books a try. You won't be disappointed. And the big secret is finally revealed. Those who have read the rest of the books will know what I am talking about!
This story also tells you of the love two people can share that is pure of heart and without any restrictions that people want to put on how you can love and be drawn to someone without it being sexual or confined to societies views. How to be happy with yourself and accept all the love, that comes your way, accepting that sometimes true love can be shared between more than two people. This book can make you laugh, but at times you want to cry.
There is just no way to describe the deliciousness that is this book. I’m having flight of thought just trying to find a way. I’ve been with this series from the get-go and throughout all the guessing or assuming what was going to happen I was almost never right. This book was no different.
Through all the high-energy fight scenes, the, “where did THAT come from” scenes, and the inevitable tears from the inevitable sequelae of war, I can honestly say that I loved this series like few others. I was fully invested in this world of characters who seemed tangible, and it just doesn’t get better than that. I’m not certain how an imagination like the one it took to begin and nurture this epic story is formed, but I am forever grateful for the escape I haven’t felt since I was a kid.
I’m not a read-and-tell kind of reviewer so I will simply say this: this series has it all and it never, ever wavers. This finale is heartbreakingly real and if you took the series journey you will feel this ending in your heart and soul for a long time to come.
You really need to read this series in its entirety starting at the beginning to fully appreciate it. It’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer all grown up and kinky. The whole series becomes epic in proportion with this final book. The first part of the book is mostly an all out battle between good and evil. Kirsten gets mortally wounded and has to go to a place in another realm to see if she can be healed. The second part of the book is about the consequences Kirsten faces after going to that other realm. This final book was a perfect culmination of all of the training and experiences that Kirsten has faced over the past 5 years. Ms. Blevins ability to write the huge battle scene and keep track of who was doing what was incredible. There is heartache at losses of loved ones and good friends. There is joy at the good that has grown out of the tragedy. There are twists and turns and even new characters are introduced that I hope we will see more of in the future. Throughout this series Ms. Blevins combines various ancient mythologies seamlessly like a Dan Brown novel and all of the gods and heroes make an appearance in this final book. Sadly this is the last book in the Only Human series but happily Ms. Blevins states that we will see Kirsten in her other series like Chattanooga Supernaturals. It only makes sense once you read this book. We finally find out why Kirsten isn’t Only Human and she does find her happily ever after too.
Rest well, hydrate, then dive in. This book sucked me in and kept me enthralled till the very last page. I’m exhausted. This book tore me up emotionally and physically and still left me with a smile. The author wraps up most of the questions from the previous books and we get to see old friends and enemies. I’m not as sad as I usually am at the end of a series because of the amount of crossover in this authors works. The author has knocked this one out of the park I don’t think anyone who has read this series will be disappointed.
Wow such a great ending to the Series. I'm grateful it ended as it did. Don't want to talk about specifics, so I'll just say that it brought things together well.
Thanks to Candace for writing a terrific 5 Series story. They melded together perfectly. I look forward to how the next chapter will go. On to Bobcat & the Birmingham RTMC Series!!
Wow! Can that be my review, because, yea, wow. I was both eagerly awaiting this book and dreading it. Eager because I NEEDED to know how things end and dread because it IS the end (mostly). So, where to begin. With a bang, of course. Almost immediately, the story drops us into the action as Ms. Blevins cleverly blends some intense action with a bit of catch up and summary as to what’s going on and has been going on since the end of Infinitely Human (Only Human Book 6). We find out the answers to some much needed questions, there’s some spectacular twists that I should have expected, but didn’t (yay!), and the fight scenes are downright creative (if you were disappointed with the GoT final fight, this will more than make up for it). Then again, I’d expect nothing less.
If you’re new to the Kirsten O’Shea’s Universe and the Only Human series, what can I say that isn’t a spoiler (you really don’t want spoilers). At the top of the pyramid, this is a paranormal romance (with claws). There’s all sorts of paranormal characters, most of which have some basis in mythology, simply wanting to live their lives the way they want to. Except that isn’t always okay with the modern world. So add in good and evil with shades of grey. Typical relationships (SOs, working, friends, FWBs, parents/children, siblings, royalty, etc) that you’d find in any modern/contemporary story. Then there’s friends to enemies (and vice versa), friends to lovers, second chances, third chances, life and death decisions and I could go on and on listing tropes that would apply to this series.
So what do you get if you delve into Kirsten O’Shea’s Universe? Damn good storytelling. Seriously. I’m in awe of the amount of detail built into the world building that spans 5 different series (they can be read separately or in conjunction with each other) and I’m so impressed with how seamless the stories and characters seem to flow from book to book. The relationships and romance elements are blistering hot at times—whether you enjoy alpha bikers, vampires, shape shifters, gods, fae, or humans—there’s a bit of each available to you and that much more. The attention to detail in these stories is mind boggling to me. Things that other authors might take for granted are given space in these stories (spoilers!) that not only enhance the overall fantasy but make it that much easier to picture. For me, the makings of a good story (series) is when I have a movie running in my head of what I’m reading and that happened for me starting at book 1.
This is a spectacular end to an all-around amazing series. While I’m sad that it’s finished, Candace Blevins did a fantastic job wrapping up what needed to be wrapped up and now I’m looking forward to what’s next.
Oh my, oh my, oh my! Well, if you are going to end a series, I guess you end it with a bang. I mean, a Super Nova bang! Candace always throws in twists and turns that you don't expect, but the other books are Nothing compared with this book in that department! There are some fight/battle scenes that raised my pulse a bit beyond my comfort level, but when I calm down I fully intend to read the book again! They were wonderful and, as you might expect with Candace, had some rather unexpected endings!
This book is really hard to review without spoilers, because it is the unexpected twists and turns that advance the story, but I have to say that some new animals, or rather supernatural animals, show up in this book that are really cool, and we find out the identity of a shifter that I have been waiting for forever to get explained. There is also a really nice HEA which I hadn't thought possible and a bad guy who (at least temporarily) acts like a good guy. Sorry, not going to tell you more in that department!
The really important part is that Candace writes so well. I never have to wince, as I do with some other writers, who include something that just doesn't work with what happened previously, or afterwards. Even in a fantasy, I demand logic! She never creates characters that you are indifferent to, because she immerses you in her characters. Strong people become stronger, beloved people become even more lovable, and the ending is wonderful. If you have read the rest of the series, go for it immediately, and if you haven't, head for Candace's Only Human (the first in the series) and you can look forward to a great series and you have seven fabulous books to enjoy!
Can I read this book again for the first time? It was EPIC. I think I cried, Laugh and experienced so many emotions like I was right there with them.
Ms. Blevins leads us to the final battle between good and evil. It is overwhelming. So much is happening and everybody is included. It was great to see all the characters from previous books. It makes me want to read all of the books again. It is not all about fighting, there is a great part about love, sacrifices, joy, family, loyalty, and trust. We finally got to see more of Mordecai and Nathan. Their insight and POV was highly anticipated and I loved their input. It is amazing to follow favorite characters through their story, to watch them grow, change and mature and finally find their peace.
I was pleasantly surprised with the sex scene and was so glad there was still time for that. It was wonderful and hot but also seemed more mature and connected. The spiritual aspect is very well explained and written as usual.
The whole book is emotional and intense. There were great losses, but it wouldn't be realistic if there was none. It was sad but everybody handled it, they knew they must. Changes were due and everyone had their part to play. I liked how there were small plots entwined with the greater one. Like each one was an important part of the chain event that leads to the legendary ending despite casualties.
The ending is powerful and emotional and just perfect. Ms. Blevins did an amazing job with closing the plot and we get the HEA that warmed my heart.
During a life-and-death situation, Kirsten has to make fast decisions about how badly she wants to live.
The final book in the ‘Only Human’ urban fantasy series is one humdinger of a story! As usual all the characters are strong, bold and take readers’ breath away with their intensity, especially Kirsten who has maintained that she’s only human since the beginning. The series has brought readers along on Kirsten’s journey as she struggles to juggle her human life with her supernatural life which keeps throwing her life in tailspins and endangering all her friends and family.
In this final book, the story is split into two parts with the first half being an exhilarating fast paced story with non-stop excitement as the battles between light and dark comes to end but in a stunning OMG twist, Kirsten in thrust into a life altering decision that changes everything for her and her future. And the battle itself is one that readers sure don’t want to miss but be prepared to be bounding in your seat along with the high octane energy that flows from the pages and be prepared to shed a few tears as well. The second part of the book has everyone dealing with the aftermath of the battle and Kirsten adapting to the changes in her life due to the decision she had make. This includes some unexpected but delightful changes in her love life and her home life. Once begun, there is no way to put this epic, riveting and satisfying read down so be prepared to lock everyone out for this sensational read.
I have followed this story from book one. This last book made me happy and dad at the same time. The book is written in two parts, and kudos to Ms Blevins on doing it thus way. The first part was a rollercoaster ride, all the ups and downs, heart in your throat read. I have never connected with a character so much as I had with Kristen. Ms Blevins artistry with words brings the characters so much to life, they feel real. From book one to this conclusion, Kristen has been on a journey of epic proportions, and you are there with her as she makes her journey. You feel her sadness, her joy, your gut churns at some of the developments. You laugh with her and you cry with her. You feel all she goes through. The second part is a slow wind up of all your questions, satisfying you completely with smiles closing out the story if Kristen., Bringing you slowly down from the adrenaline rush from part one. This is an epic series that I have read more than once and will continue to read over and over again. Thank you Candace Blevins and I look forward to more of your work.
Epic, thrilling, exciting, heartbreaking, satisfying, all very valid words to describe this book, but one word defines the conclusion of this journey that we have taken with Kirsten, “Masterpiece”. The previous six books led us to this story and these moments. The authour was the artist, who prepared her sets, situated the canvas in the studio, practiced her moves, and threaded the needles, and unleashed this work of art for us to watch, admire, and immerse ourselves into. I cheered, and worried, and sobbed uncontrollably. I smiled, and cringed, and felt calm settle over my soul. The end of series always comes with some sadness it is ending, but I honestly was so satisfied with the way things ended, I was silly smiling as the story ended
Thank you Candace for this experience, because it was more than a story, and these were more than characters, you made it real and it touched our hearts and our souls <3
I am a bit saddened that with Unhuman Acts signals the end of the Only Human series. The creativity and genius of this series is a direct result of Candace Blevins' incredibly inventive imagination. Kirsten O'Shea is certainly one of a kind. Her wisdom, compassion and capacity for love are only exceeded by her strength, fearlessness and supernatural gifts.
In the first half of this book the long awaited war finally arrives and it's monumental. I dare you to read without gasping or holding your breath at times, not sit on the edge of your seat as the battles unfold, or keep turning pages to see what happens next. As the dust finally settles there is sorrow, grief, tears and a new order to the Chattanooga supernatural hierarchy. In the second half of the book Kirsten begins adjusting to her new role, learns to better navigate politics, how to handle as her ever increasing power and energy and settles into a loving relationship that is her HEA.
I fell into Kirsten's world in the first book of the series which is Only Human. Since then I have read and reread all of the books in the series as I waited for this one and it didn't disappoint. Divided into two parts with the first being the big battle between good and evil and second tying up the looses ends. Part One gave us a battle of jaw dropping twists and turns that you never see coming. As well as unexpected and relatable pain and sadness for those lost as the battle continued. Then in Part Two I was swept away by the blending of scenes of steamy eroticism and sweet tenderness. All of the beings in Kirsten's world find their perfect place in it. Ms Blevins has given us complex characters in complex situations throughout the seven books and I am sure I am not the only one who has happily immersed themselves in all of them. Thank you Candace for them.
Where do I start? With the pace this story develops? The characters that have become so familiar over the series and are changing radically? The loss of old friends, the deaths of so many, the minefield of politics of the different factions, friend and foe. But the most fascinating development at the core of the story is Kirsten. There have been hints along the way who or what she might be, but never had I thought,... Arghh! There are battle scenes that make your head spin, devastating loss, but most of all there is love in all its forms, all its constellations. And there is a HEA, just not the one you might have expected. Thank you for an epic story Ms Blevins, and I hate you for finishing it! When is the next one coming?????
I chose to read this book twice before trying to formulate my review. I know it hit my emotions with huge WHAMS and then got knocked again WHAM. I felt the sadness just as deeply as the joy. For every up there is a down. I cried giant tears and smiled and grinned. I wanted more but I always do with this author. I was amazed with the way the plot went and was thrilled to finally have one of my questions answered.
I know the big battle is done but I don't just want more I need it.
This is the 7th book in the series and should be read as a series in my opinion.
OMG I can't express enough how much I LOVE this series, I want to be Kristen O'Shea! I mean who wouldn't want be she's a beautiful, smart, has magical powers, she kicks ass, has the BEST family & friends and protect them no matter what. Well # 7 was an important number in the battle of Good vs Evil . The battle began and Kristen wasn't sure who was going to be standing at the end. A lot of loss ( I cried like a baby) and lots of changes. I hope everyone gets it , it's a must read!
I've been waiting for this book with bated breath. I didn't want to think of who might win or lose or live or die. I did know it was going to be epic though and it was! The other thing we were invested in was the relationship that was broken, would it be healed or forever lost? This too turns out epic! I'm sad that this was the last book but so looking forward to what comes next. I will always have a special place in my heart for Kirsten 😍😍😍
Speechless. Unhuman Acts has left me speechless. I have been trying for a day to figure out what I could possibly say to do this book justice. And I just can’t find the words. The level of detail with the history and characters in this book is stunning. The epic battle that has been coming in the Only Human series is here, and it is a doozy! Unhuman Acts grabbed me right from the start and wouldn’t let go. I absolutely loved it.
Really hated to see this series end. Enjoyed every page right from the beginning until now. Lots of drama and action. Definitely an extraordinary, entertaining series. Loved the characters. Will most definitely check out other books by this author.
Wow sums up my feelings on the conclusion of the only human series! So many questions answered, so many emotions, written as only Candace Blevins can do! I can’t wait to see which book in the other series comes next and I still want more Kristen! Book hangover here I come!
The end is nigh. An epic battle between good an evil carries this last book through realms. Imminent death brings magical rebirth in war. Loss of life, sorrow, and all that war entails. Good story arc, satisfying ending.