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Soulbound #2
Toutes les âmes aux alentours
Vous ne pouvez pas négocier avec la Mort si vous avez déjà vendu votre âme.
L'agent spécial Patrick Collins a été réaffecté à New York par l’Agence des Opérations surnaturelles. Faire fonctionner sa relation naissante avec Jonothon de Vere, le loup-garou auquel il a lié son âme, est une partie de plaisir comparé aux disputes territoriales entre les vampires et autres créatures. Les accords fragiles qui maintenaient l’ordre dans le monde surnaturel sont en train de se briser, et les retombées risquent d’avoir des conséquences sur le monde mondain.
Les boîtes de nuit Manhattan sont envahies par la drogue vampire connue sous le nom de Shine et le métro est devenu un dépotoir pour cadavres. Quand ils découvrent que les morts sont tous des garous disparus, Patrick et Jono se retrouvent plongés dans une enquête où se mêlent machinations vampiriques et jeux politiques des meutes de la ville.
Alors même qu’ils apprennent à se faire confiance, ils vont devoir trouver un moyen de survivre à une menace qui ne fait pas de quartiers et qui les traque sans relâche dans les rues new-yorkaises.
Sans oublier les dieux qui n’ont pas fini de collecter la dette de Patrick.
Essayer d'échapper à la mort est un cauchemar dont Patrick pourrait ne jamais se réveiller
447 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2019
About the author
Hailey Turner
48 books2,020 followersHailey Turner is a big city girl who likes to spoil her cats rotten. She writes science fiction and fantasy with lots of action, epic plots, and romantic relationships that satisfy the heart. Hailey lives in sunny California when she isn’t adding stamps to her passport.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 673 reviews
July 22, 2025
3.5 stars
Reading this book was a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving me both frustrated and entertained. The beginning was particularly slow; the first 100 pages dragged on. At one point, I seriously contemplated putting the book down for good. However, once I pushed past that initial slump, the pace gained momentum, and I genuinely enjoyed the unfolding story.
In this installment, the gods we encounter are rooted in Aztec mythology, and I must say, I found them far more captivating than their Greek counterparts. The plot became much more engaging than the first book, filled with twists that kept me eager to turn the pages. The introduction of new characters made the book even more entertaining, and I was pleasantly surprised by the portrayal of the vampires in this second book. Lucien, a character I had barely tolerated before, transformed into someone I began to appreciate as more layers of his personality were revealed. The exploration of his character added a fascinating dimension to the story.
The world-building remains one of this author’s strongest suits. The expansion of the universe is executed beautifully; there’s a gradual unveiling of details that immerses readers without overwhelming them with excessive lore. Among the new characters, Wade quickly became a standout for me. As a dragon, he not only brings an intriguing element to the narrative but also embodies a moody teenage vibe that perfectly complements the story's tone. His dark past adds a layer of complexity, and I found myself rooting for him as he navigates his journey toward healing and finding safety.
Jono, too, steps into the spotlight with a much larger role this time around, and I couldn’t have been happier about it. While I saw him as just an average character in the first book, his development here made him one of my favorites. His decisive actions in critical moments made me cheer out loud; he exuded a confidence that painted him as a true badass.
However, my enjoyment was dampened by one character: Patrick. I remember liking him in the first book, but in this installment, he became a source of frustration. His relentless self-sacrificing tendencies felt excessively foolish. Watching him throw himself into danger time and again without learning from past mistakes started to feel repetitive. I found myself questioning how many times a character could be in a position of debt to others before it became tedious. His constant plight turned into a predictable trope that detracted from the overall enjoyment of the storyline.
On a different note, the development of the relationship between Jono and Patrick was a highlight. Their emotional connection was explored in greater depth, and I appreciated that the story shifted focus from their purely physical chemistry, which had dominated the first book. Each moment they shared brought a smile to my face, showcasing a bond that felt genuine. However, it was disheartening to see them revisit the same argument repeatedly; this recasting of conflict began to grate on my nerves.
In conclusion, while I found this installment enjoyable overall, I oscillated between moments of joy and frustration. The captivating world-building and dynamic characters provided a strong foundation, but certain repetitive elements, particularly regarding Patrick, hampered my overall experience.
Reading this book was a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving me both frustrated and entertained. The beginning was particularly slow; the first 100 pages dragged on. At one point, I seriously contemplated putting the book down for good. However, once I pushed past that initial slump, the pace gained momentum, and I genuinely enjoyed the unfolding story.
In this installment, the gods we encounter are rooted in Aztec mythology, and I must say, I found them far more captivating than their Greek counterparts. The plot became much more engaging than the first book, filled with twists that kept me eager to turn the pages. The introduction of new characters made the book even more entertaining, and I was pleasantly surprised by the portrayal of the vampires in this second book. Lucien, a character I had barely tolerated before, transformed into someone I began to appreciate as more layers of his personality were revealed. The exploration of his character added a fascinating dimension to the story.
The world-building remains one of this author’s strongest suits. The expansion of the universe is executed beautifully; there’s a gradual unveiling of details that immerses readers without overwhelming them with excessive lore. Among the new characters, Wade quickly became a standout for me. As a dragon, he not only brings an intriguing element to the narrative but also embodies a moody teenage vibe that perfectly complements the story's tone. His dark past adds a layer of complexity, and I found myself rooting for him as he navigates his journey toward healing and finding safety.
Jono, too, steps into the spotlight with a much larger role this time around, and I couldn’t have been happier about it. While I saw him as just an average character in the first book, his development here made him one of my favorites. His decisive actions in critical moments made me cheer out loud; he exuded a confidence that painted him as a true badass.
However, my enjoyment was dampened by one character: Patrick. I remember liking him in the first book, but in this installment, he became a source of frustration. His relentless self-sacrificing tendencies felt excessively foolish. Watching him throw himself into danger time and again without learning from past mistakes started to feel repetitive. I found myself questioning how many times a character could be in a position of debt to others before it became tedious. His constant plight turned into a predictable trope that detracted from the overall enjoyment of the storyline.
On a different note, the development of the relationship between Jono and Patrick was a highlight. Their emotional connection was explored in greater depth, and I appreciated that the story shifted focus from their purely physical chemistry, which had dominated the first book. Each moment they shared brought a smile to my face, showcasing a bond that felt genuine. However, it was disheartening to see them revisit the same argument repeatedly; this recasting of conflict began to grate on my nerves.
In conclusion, while I found this installment enjoyable overall, I oscillated between moments of joy and frustration. The captivating world-building and dynamic characters provided a strong foundation, but certain repetitive elements, particularly regarding Patrick, hampered my overall experience.
August 8, 2019
Audiobook: ***4.5 Stars*** (August 2019)
Gary Furlong has found his groove and hit this one out of the park!!! ❤
-----------------------------------------------
***4.5 Stars***
And it is also full of surprises...
One of these days... One of these days, Special Agent for the SOA and mage by trade, Patrick Collins, would learn to say no. As if a soul debt to some supreme deity wouldn't be enough, a bargain with a master vampire who shoved the guilt card right into his face is bound to end up in disaster. His track record in that regard speaks volumes, so wiggling out of it preferably without getting killed in the process -thank you very much-, get his superiors on board in order not to get sacked and make the whole thing a goddamn success would be a welcome change for once.
Caught up in a vampire turf war with some gods unbeknownst to him meddling in his affairs and a case of tortured dead werecreatures, with the threads tangled up in one another more than he cared for, Patrick once again needs to rely on enemies-turned-allies, on the powers that be very high above - as in not of this world - and the soulbond to Jonothon de Vere, god pack alpha werewolf without a real pack, umm... yet. Slowly but surely his feelings for this guy go way beyond their tied up souls, even if he knows that this is not one of his better ideas...
Jono finds himself at a point in his life where decisions have to be made, responsibilities to take on and grounds to stand, all of which with consequences not only for himself, but also for the little pack he formed with a certain mage. One thing is for sure: they have each other's back and that is something desperately needed in order to battle everything gods, other immortals and the shifter department throws their way and keep their growing pack safe, even if it means fighting to the bitter end and with all that is necessary, because...
THIS IS URBAN FANTASY AT ITS BEST!!! Can I just say I loved to be back in this world and be done with it? No? Well hell, I'll try to explain, but if it doesn't make sense remember you asked for it, okay?!
The world building is simply top-notch. Where A Ferry of Bones & Gold concentrated on the European part of the Pantheon with mostly well-known Greek and Norse deities, this second installment in the Soulbound series takes us on a highly entertaining journey through the Aztec mythology, which I realized I should have paid more attention to during my history lessons at school *cough*. Names like Tezcatlipoca or Quetzalcoatl - or Pretzel as Patrick so fondly called him - were familiar, but it was interesting to get more background on these deities in Mesoamerican culture. The author once again wove historical and mystical aspects effortlessly into a fast-paced urban fantasy tale with epic battles, police procedural, politics, ethical codes and a romantic subplot.
The subplot didn't feel particularly 'sub' to me, though. The connection between Patrick and Jono is steadily growing and with a grumps like Patrick and a delicious badass like Jono, Hailey Turner created two guys who sneaked their way into my top-10 list of favorite characters. I especially loved the character development of Jono here and boy, do I love me some growly and protective werewolf!!!
My only niggle is once again the steadily growing list of characters. Blame it again on my old-lady-brain-syndrome, but I had a hard time keeping up with the who-is-who of urban fantasy New York and the otherworldly denizens, which is not the author's fault. There is a glossary at the end of the book, but looking the names up pulled me out of the story, so I just had to go with the flow sometimes.
Towards the end of the book, there is a hint at the storyline of book #3 and I can't wait to read what the author has in store for the guys in the next installment. Highly recommended!
Note: please heed the trigger warning at the beginning of the book!
Gary Furlong has found his groove and hit this one out of the park!!! ❤
-----------------------------------------------
***4.5 Stars***
As much as Patrick would give anything to not be part of this coup, he had promises to keep, places to be, vampires to kill. His life could be called a lot of things but never dull.
And it is also full of surprises...
One of these days... One of these days, Special Agent for the SOA and mage by trade, Patrick Collins, would learn to say no. As if a soul debt to some supreme deity wouldn't be enough, a bargain with a master vampire who shoved the guilt card right into his face is bound to end up in disaster. His track record in that regard speaks volumes, so wiggling out of it preferably without getting killed in the process -thank you very much-, get his superiors on board in order not to get sacked and make the whole thing a goddamn success would be a welcome change for once.
Caught up in a vampire turf war with some gods unbeknownst to him meddling in his affairs and a case of tortured dead werecreatures, with the threads tangled up in one another more than he cared for, Patrick once again needs to rely on enemies-turned-allies, on the powers that be very high above - as in not of this world - and the soulbond to Jonothon de Vere, god pack alpha werewolf without a real pack, umm... yet. Slowly but surely his feelings for this guy go way beyond their tied up souls, even if he knows that this is not one of his better ideas...
Jono was a risk and a weakness in a way Patrick couldn't bring himself to let go of.
Jono finds himself at a point in his life where decisions have to be made, responsibilities to take on and grounds to stand, all of which with consequences not only for himself, but also for the little pack he formed with a certain mage. One thing is for sure: they have each other's back and that is something desperately needed in order to battle everything gods, other immortals and the shifter department throws their way and keep their growing pack safe, even if it means fighting to the bitter end and with all that is necessary, because...
Home wasn't a place. It was people. Pack.
THIS IS URBAN FANTASY AT ITS BEST!!! Can I just say I loved to be back in this world and be done with it? No? Well hell, I'll try to explain, but if it doesn't make sense remember you asked for it, okay?!
The world building is simply top-notch. Where A Ferry of Bones & Gold concentrated on the European part of the Pantheon with mostly well-known Greek and Norse deities, this second installment in the Soulbound series takes us on a highly entertaining journey through the Aztec mythology, which I realized I should have paid more attention to during my history lessons at school *cough*. Names like Tezcatlipoca or Quetzalcoatl - or Pretzel as Patrick so fondly called him - were familiar, but it was interesting to get more background on these deities in Mesoamerican culture. The author once again wove historical and mystical aspects effortlessly into a fast-paced urban fantasy tale with epic battles, police procedural, politics, ethical codes and a romantic subplot.
The subplot didn't feel particularly 'sub' to me, though. The connection between Patrick and Jono is steadily growing and with a grumps like Patrick and a delicious badass like Jono, Hailey Turner created two guys who sneaked their way into my top-10 list of favorite characters. I especially loved the character development of Jono here and boy, do I love me some growly and protective werewolf!!!
My only niggle is once again the steadily growing list of characters. Blame it again on my old-lady-brain-syndrome, but I had a hard time keeping up with the who-is-who of urban fantasy New York and the otherworldly denizens, which is not the author's fault. There is a glossary at the end of the book, but looking the names up pulled me out of the story, so I just had to go with the flow sometimes.
Towards the end of the book, there is a hint at the storyline of book #3 and I can't wait to read what the author has in store for the guys in the next installment. Highly recommended!
Note: please heed the trigger warning at the beginning of the book!
***ARC generously provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!***
May 14, 2020
As you might be able to tell from my categories, there's a bit of kitchen sink about this. Shifters, gods, demons, mages, and vampires in New York City. But Turner absolutely makes it work. I dove into this one right after finishing the first.
It reminds me of The Immortals by Jordanna Brodsky, only less angsty, a lot more action and a lot more interesting, perhaps because there is so much going on. But as I said, it works. It's a big-wide world, and magic is out there, policed by Paranormal Divisions of the government. Some magic stuff can stay in the community, but if it interferes with the normals, there's both public relations and criminal consequences. When a dead shifter body is discovered in a train station, usually an area protected by many and old layers of magic, Patrick is involved professionally, and Juno becomes involved personally.
As usually, there's a strong romance angle, but it's surprisingly grown-up for the genre, as Elena C. noted in a review of the first book. Pat and Juno each have history, but try and attack issues with faith and patience. It was something to see. I'd say with developments in this book, it actually feels like growth of a romantic partnership, as opposed to a more surface-relationship of the first book. I'm not sure which was more surprising, that it was maturing nicely, or that I found it so sweet. As always, I'll note Turner seems keen on including It's mostly integrated, but maybe a little not at times.
One of the other interesting things that is happening with this series is that as the relationship between Pat and Juno stabilizes, they are finding that others want to be included into their circle. Reminds me a bit of Kate and Curran in the Andrews' Kate Daniels series.
Overall, a fun series. I'm not a great judge here, but it's passing all the gut-sniff tests (it's a thing; trust me). Maybe I'll have to check in next year and see if it survives QB, but I think it will.
It reminds me of The Immortals by Jordanna Brodsky, only less angsty, a lot more action and a lot more interesting, perhaps because there is so much going on. But as I said, it works. It's a big-wide world, and magic is out there, policed by Paranormal Divisions of the government. Some magic stuff can stay in the community, but if it interferes with the normals, there's both public relations and criminal consequences. When a dead shifter body is discovered in a train station, usually an area protected by many and old layers of magic, Patrick is involved professionally, and Juno becomes involved personally.
As usually, there's a strong romance angle, but it's surprisingly grown-up for the genre, as Elena C. noted in a review of the first book. Pat and Juno each have history, but try and attack issues with faith and patience. It was something to see. I'd say with developments in this book, it actually feels like growth of a romantic partnership, as opposed to a more surface-relationship of the first book. I'm not sure which was more surprising, that it was maturing nicely, or that I found it so sweet. As always, I'll note Turner seems keen on including It's mostly integrated, but maybe a little not at times.
One of the other interesting things that is happening with this series is that as the relationship between Pat and Juno stabilizes, they are finding that others want to be included into their circle. Reminds me a bit of Kate and Curran in the Andrews' Kate Daniels series.
Overall, a fun series. I'm not a great judge here, but it's passing all the gut-sniff tests (it's a thing; trust me). Maybe I'll have to check in next year and see if it survives QB, but I think it will.
January 5, 2026
Second reading 01/2026
reread via audiobook. So, the first two were just to warm up. I hope I can finally make some progress with this series now. It's all too good and exciting to keep putting it down. I hope I can finally convince my brain of that. So, on to part three.
First reading 03/2024
Oh my goodness, this book has so many elements that I don't like. Simply put, I don't like it when it's one disaster after another and when the main characters are constantly on the verge of dying.
For this reason and this reason alone, it felt like I was reading this book for an eternity. I'm just an anxious chicken and had to keep reading another book after almost every chapter starting after the first half of the book.
Obviously, I still love this book. The story is also just phenomenal. I madly love that Jono has a bigger part in the story and how his pack evolves, how he expresses his possessiveness.
“If a rival pack took one of your pack mates or injured someone under your protection, what would you do?” Patrick asked him. Jono had to remind himself to keep his touch light and gentle on Kennedy’s body.
“To avenge you? Anything.”
Patrick blinked, the hard line of his mouth softening. “Murder is so much better than flowers some days.” 🥀🫠🥀
Fucking love the action though it drove me to the brink of madness.
Jono and Patrick together ... Supremely yummy and beautiful.
“Fine doesn’t look like you took several punches to the face.”
Patrick’s mouth quirked at the corners. “Gonna kiss it better?”
“Cheeky. Could’ve just asked rather than go out looking for a fight.”
“Hazard of the job.”
“Bollocks.” 🥀🤗🥀
“Drowning yourself in smoke and liquor won’t take the memories away.”
“I see a therapist.”
“I know you do. All I’m saying is don’t come to me because you think you need to prove something to yourself. I’m not going anywhere, and I’ll wait however long you need to feel okay again.” 🥀😍🥀
Well, and Wade ... oh I'm so so curious and in love.
reread via audiobook. So, the first two were just to warm up. I hope I can finally make some progress with this series now. It's all too good and exciting to keep putting it down. I hope I can finally convince my brain of that. So, on to part three.
First reading 03/2024
Oh my goodness, this book has so many elements that I don't like. Simply put, I don't like it when it's one disaster after another and when the main characters are constantly on the verge of dying.
For this reason and this reason alone, it felt like I was reading this book for an eternity. I'm just an anxious chicken and had to keep reading another book after almost every chapter starting after the first half of the book.
Obviously, I still love this book. The story is also just phenomenal. I madly love that Jono has a bigger part in the story and how his pack evolves, how he expresses his possessiveness.
“If a rival pack took one of your pack mates or injured someone under your protection, what would you do?” Patrick asked him. Jono had to remind himself to keep his touch light and gentle on Kennedy’s body.
“To avenge you? Anything.”
Patrick blinked, the hard line of his mouth softening. “Murder is so much better than flowers some days.” 🥀🫠🥀
Fucking love the action though it drove me to the brink of madness.
Jono and Patrick together ... Supremely yummy and beautiful.
“Fine doesn’t look like you took several punches to the face.”
Patrick’s mouth quirked at the corners. “Gonna kiss it better?”
“Cheeky. Could’ve just asked rather than go out looking for a fight.”
“Hazard of the job.”
“Bollocks.” 🥀🤗🥀
“Drowning yourself in smoke and liquor won’t take the memories away.”
“I see a therapist.”
“I know you do. All I’m saying is don’t come to me because you think you need to prove something to yourself. I’m not going anywhere, and I’ll wait however long you need to feel okay again.” 🥀😍🥀
Well, and Wade ... oh I'm so so curious and in love.
March 11, 2021
Ever eat a strange combo and it just works for some reason? That is this book. The mythologies mixology is insane. There is Greek, Norse, Aztec, Egyptian, and Mexican in this book. Add to that a gay romance (although the magic wars take 98% of the book), and you have a really awesome mix.
Haha. Now kiss! You know you want to.
Our heroes are Patrick, a mage, and Jono, a werewolf. They are soulbonded, which means, whatever. You wanna give a less smaltzy tag than soulmate? Fine. Doesn't matter. There is a overarching story that I'm sure will continue throughout the series of a bad mage who is trying to steal the souls of mythological gods to get their power. Pat and Jono are supposed to stop the guy, but he's like The Simpsons - won't go away, not getting any better.
In this book they have to deal with vampires because Pat is a dumbass who makes such bad life decisions that every character he meets calls him on it. The guy has the survival instincts of a lemming. But, on the plus side he also has a lot of power at his disposal between help from the gods , his own magic, and powerful allies. He should have no problem defeating ancient vampires and gods of death, right?
I spoiled myself a little before reading this because at the beginning of the book there was a warning about a rape scene. I wanted to decide whether I could deal with reading it before starting.
Anyway, back to non-serious. I am with a lot of reviewers when I say that I find one bad boy, Lucien, very intriguing. I want more of him. I want a book for him. I feel like I could tame his bad-boy ways. He just needs a middle-aged housewife to tame his evil ways.
What the fuck is wrong with me? My therapist will quit after our next meeting.
Maybe the Simpsons IS still relevant....
nah.
But, my furniture salesman took a psych class once. He's qualified. Also, he got me a great deal on a couch that I lay around on all day while eating crap, drinking, chewing an edible, and reading smut on my kindle. See? Mental health all the way!
So, off to the next book. My therapist recommends it!
Haha. Now kiss! You know you want to.
Our heroes are Patrick, a mage, and Jono, a werewolf. They are soulbonded, which means, whatever. You wanna give a less smaltzy tag than soulmate? Fine. Doesn't matter. There is a overarching story that I'm sure will continue throughout the series of a bad mage who is trying to steal the souls of mythological gods to get their power. Pat and Jono are supposed to stop the guy, but he's like The Simpsons - won't go away, not getting any better.
In this book they have to deal with vampires because Pat is a dumbass who makes such bad life decisions that every character he meets calls him on it. The guy has the survival instincts of a lemming. But, on the plus side he also has a lot of power at his disposal between help from the gods , his own magic, and powerful allies. He should have no problem defeating ancient vampires and gods of death, right?
I spoiled myself a little before reading this because at the beginning of the book there was a warning about a rape scene. I wanted to decide whether I could deal with reading it before starting.
Anyway, back to non-serious. I am with a lot of reviewers when I say that I find one bad boy, Lucien, very intriguing. I want more of him. I want a book for him. I feel like I could tame his bad-boy ways. He just needs a middle-aged housewife to tame his evil ways.
What the fuck is wrong with me? My therapist will quit after our next meeting.
Maybe the Simpsons IS still relevant....
nah.
But, my furniture salesman took a psych class once. He's qualified. Also, he got me a great deal on a couch that I lay around on all day while eating crap, drinking, chewing an edible, and reading smut on my kindle. See? Mental health all the way!
So, off to the next book. My therapist recommends it!
November 22, 2019
Audio 5 +++ Stars!
Story – 4.25 Stars
Book 2 didn’t have my heart racing as much as book 1 did. There seemed to be more talking and not enough action and sexy times for me. I know the talking was necessary for strategizing, and as a reader (in this case, listener), the talking did help me understand the additional characters introduced. Afterall, this series has mixture mythical gods from various cultures, shape shifters, and supernatural beings. Knowing the talking was necessary, didn’t keep me from huffing impatiently at times.
I’m still crushing hard on Lucien, and I want to feed Wade all the pop tarts he can eat…LOL
Story – 4.25 Stars
Book 2 didn’t have my heart racing as much as book 1 did. There seemed to be more talking and not enough action and sexy times for me. I know the talking was necessary for strategizing, and as a reader (in this case, listener), the talking did help me understand the additional characters introduced. Afterall, this series has mixture mythical gods from various cultures, shape shifters, and supernatural beings. Knowing the talking was necessary, didn’t keep me from huffing impatiently at times.
I’m still crushing hard on Lucien, and I want to feed Wade all the pop tarts he can eat…LOL
September 13, 2019
4.5*
The previous book A Ferry of Bones & Gold was amazing and one of my few 5* reads of last year. It’s safe to say I was positively giddy with excitement when I started this and it didn’t disappoint.
Patrick seems determined to increase my stress levels as yet again he agrees to a life threatening deal with Lucien.
“I’m going to take over the Manhattan Night Court, and you’re going to help me.”
Seriously Patrick at least pause before you say yes and spare a thought for Jono and us your loyal fans.
But I’m getting ahead of myself.
Dead bodies of werecreatures are being found dumped in the subways. Signs of enslavement and defensive wounds are obvious along with shine and a small Santa Muerte figurine. Shine is a drug made originally from vampire blood. It’s been around for hundreds of years but these days to meet demand most of it is lab synthesised.
So we have dead werecreatures, Lucien wanting to take over the Manhattan Night Court. Santa Muerte the personification of death is awake and in New York City. Quetzalcoatl, Tezcatlipoca the Omacatl Cartel the Dominion Sect and the useless God Pack that is Estelle Walker and Youssef Khan.
And that’s just the highlights or should that be lowlights?
Anyway.
On top of all this we have the hot and sexy growling god pack werewolf Jono. I do love a sexy werewolf and Jono is simply delicious.
In this book we also have a new star.
Wade ‘I’m not a kid’ Espinoza, the grumpy light fingered permanently hungry teenage fledgling. He’s just adorable. He’s the sulky problem that has taken over Patrick and Jono’s couch.
“Where’s Wade?”
“In the kitchen eating snacks and stealing knives.”
“I am not!” came Wade’s muffled shout from the walk-in pantry near the refrigerator.
“Empty your pockets,” Patrick told Wade.
Scowling, Wade proceeded to empty his pockets of a candy bar, two sets of car keys, a steak knife that had Patrick rolling his eyes, Jono’s credit card of all things, and a small bottle of vodka.
Anyway enough of Wade. Well I’m not sure you can actually get enough of Wade but back to the rest of the book.
It’s another exciting read in fact there’s never a dull moment. The guys battle a seemingly endless list of villains and gods.
Then just as the book’s winding down and it’s possible to finally take a deep breath we’re given the direction of the next one. Seriously this author must have a bit of a mean streak. All I can say is she’d better write fast.
The previous book A Ferry of Bones & Gold was amazing and one of my few 5* reads of last year. It’s safe to say I was positively giddy with excitement when I started this and it didn’t disappoint.
Patrick seems determined to increase my stress levels as yet again he agrees to a life threatening deal with Lucien.
“I’m going to take over the Manhattan Night Court, and you’re going to help me.”
Seriously Patrick at least pause before you say yes and spare a thought for Jono and us your loyal fans.
But I’m getting ahead of myself.
Dead bodies of werecreatures are being found dumped in the subways. Signs of enslavement and defensive wounds are obvious along with shine and a small Santa Muerte figurine. Shine is a drug made originally from vampire blood. It’s been around for hundreds of years but these days to meet demand most of it is lab synthesised.
So we have dead werecreatures, Lucien wanting to take over the Manhattan Night Court. Santa Muerte the personification of death is awake and in New York City. Quetzalcoatl, Tezcatlipoca the Omacatl Cartel the Dominion Sect and the useless God Pack that is Estelle Walker and Youssef Khan.
And that’s just the highlights or should that be lowlights?
Anyway.
On top of all this we have the hot and sexy growling god pack werewolf Jono. I do love a sexy werewolf and Jono is simply delicious.
In this book we also have a new star.
Wade ‘I’m not a kid’ Espinoza, the grumpy light fingered permanently hungry teenage fledgling. He’s just adorable. He’s the sulky problem that has taken over Patrick and Jono’s couch.
“Where’s Wade?”
“In the kitchen eating snacks and stealing knives.”
“I am not!” came Wade’s muffled shout from the walk-in pantry near the refrigerator.
“Empty your pockets,” Patrick told Wade.
Scowling, Wade proceeded to empty his pockets of a candy bar, two sets of car keys, a steak knife that had Patrick rolling his eyes, Jono’s credit card of all things, and a small bottle of vodka.
Anyway enough of Wade. Well I’m not sure you can actually get enough of Wade but back to the rest of the book.
It’s another exciting read in fact there’s never a dull moment. The guys battle a seemingly endless list of villains and gods.
Then just as the book’s winding down and it’s possible to finally take a deep breath we’re given the direction of the next one. Seriously this author must have a bit of a mean streak. All I can say is she’d better write fast.
March 16, 2019
4,5 stars
This is the second book in the Soulbound series by Hailey Turner.
As much as I enjoyed the action in the first book, A Ferry of Bones & Gold, I wasn't sure I'll stick to this series because it got exhausting at times. As English isn't my native language I had a hard time keeping up with all the werecreatures, mages, vampires, werewolfs, gods, immortals.
Well in this one we get many more characters, but I got more invested into the story! Much more than I expected.
The beginning was a little slow, but we get many more intriguing characters. This is actually the sequel to A Ferry of Bones & Gold, and it's best to read the the first book in the series to enjoy this one to the fullest.
Patrick and Jono find themselves in the middle of the fighting for territorial disputes between the vampires and werecreatures. I really wish Patrick would have taken Jono's advice or at least admit they were a pack now and he needed Jono by his side. It bugged me a little that he was determined to still work on his own and he got into trouble all the time.
All the Aztec gods, Santa Muerte, Tezcatlipoca, Omacatl Cartel were great additions to the story. We get many unexpected scenes, a lot of suspense and of course, A LOT of action.
I don't want to give too much away. A lot of characters surprised me, especially Wade.
What I loved most here would be the strong soulbound Patrick and Jono had. The way Jono fought to keep Patrick safe, his possessive and also tender side.
This story is well written, entertaining and full of action. I did expect a little more hotness and was left wanting more.
Looking forward to reading the next book. Hopefully we'll get more hot scenes between the main characters!
This is the second book in the Soulbound series by Hailey Turner.
As much as I enjoyed the action in the first book, A Ferry of Bones & Gold, I wasn't sure I'll stick to this series because it got exhausting at times. As English isn't my native language I had a hard time keeping up with all the werecreatures, mages, vampires, werewolfs, gods, immortals.
Well in this one we get many more characters, but I got more invested into the story! Much more than I expected.
The beginning was a little slow, but we get many more intriguing characters. This is actually the sequel to A Ferry of Bones & Gold, and it's best to read the the first book in the series to enjoy this one to the fullest.
Patrick and Jono find themselves in the middle of the fighting for territorial disputes between the vampires and werecreatures. I really wish Patrick would have taken Jono's advice or at least admit they were a pack now and he needed Jono by his side. It bugged me a little that he was determined to still work on his own and he got into trouble all the time.
All the Aztec gods, Santa Muerte, Tezcatlipoca, Omacatl Cartel were great additions to the story. We get many unexpected scenes, a lot of suspense and of course, A LOT of action.
I don't want to give too much away. A lot of characters surprised me, especially Wade.
What I loved most here would be the strong soulbound Patrick and Jono had. The way Jono fought to keep Patrick safe, his possessive and also tender side.
This story is well written, entertaining and full of action. I did expect a little more hotness and was left wanting more.
Looking forward to reading the next book. Hopefully we'll get more hot scenes between the main characters!
This review is posted on DirtyBooksObsession
August 18, 2019
4.5 stars
Oh boy, I'm as in love with this series as I was when I started it yesterday. Two books in two days and I'm actually counting the days until book 3 is being released.
All Souls Near & Nigh was as exciting as A Ferry of Bones & Gold.
I couldn't pull myself away from this book. Lately, it's been rare that I'm so engrossed in a story that I rather say at home than meet friends. Last year's Foxhole Court left me with a similar feel, but I didn't think it would happen again.
In All Souls Near & Nigh we meet familiar faces, old and new gods, and the overall plot concerning Patrick and Jono is moving forward. I'm pretty excited to see Jono and Patrick's pack grow and can't wait for the big confrontation coming in book 3. I love seeing their relationship manifest and strengthen.
It's amazing how some couples know each other so well, that they know what the other thinks without spelling it out. Patrick and Jono work like a team. I'm in love with how they anticipate and respect each other's wishes and decisions. No drama or misunderstandings. No wonder I love this series so much.
The plot is as action filled as in A Ferry of Bones & Gold - from beginning to end I was flipping pages like a crazy person. Glued to the pages is an apt description, of how I read this book. I was immersed and didn't want to come up for air.
I can't recommend this series more highly enough - if you loved Kate Daniels you MUST try it.
Oh boy, I'm as in love with this series as I was when I started it yesterday. Two books in two days and I'm actually counting the days until book 3 is being released.
All Souls Near & Nigh was as exciting as A Ferry of Bones & Gold.
I couldn't pull myself away from this book. Lately, it's been rare that I'm so engrossed in a story that I rather say at home than meet friends. Last year's Foxhole Court left me with a similar feel, but I didn't think it would happen again.
In All Souls Near & Nigh we meet familiar faces, old and new gods, and the overall plot concerning Patrick and Jono is moving forward. I'm pretty excited to see Jono and Patrick's pack grow and can't wait for the big confrontation coming in book 3. I love seeing their relationship manifest and strengthen.
It's amazing how some couples know each other so well, that they know what the other thinks without spelling it out. Patrick and Jono work like a team. I'm in love with how they anticipate and respect each other's wishes and decisions. No drama or misunderstandings. No wonder I love this series so much.
The plot is as action filled as in A Ferry of Bones & Gold - from beginning to end I was flipping pages like a crazy person. Glued to the pages is an apt description, of how I read this book. I was immersed and didn't want to come up for air.
I can't recommend this series more highly enough - if you loved Kate Daniels you MUST try it.
August 20, 2020
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*I Like This Series*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Book one occurred in June, it's now August and Patrick now is in a pack of two with Jono and reassigned by the Supernatural Operations Agency to New York City. While this book wasn't as good as the previous one, it was still interesting. I find myself drawn to a certain badass master vampire and want him to love Patrick. I want a brotherhood between them. That being said, I'm interested to see Jono's pack get bigger, and to see Jono and Patrick become more romantic towards each other. They are still holding quite a lot back. So far, they only need each other and want to be around each other, but I want more. I also want more possessiveness. Overall, I like it, enjoyed it. But it definitely needs more depth. At least in my eyes.
Characters & Information/Spoilers:
The list is LONG so I've put it in a spoilers tag.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Urban Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Jonothon ‘Jono’ de Vere.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - Unsure.
Rating - 3 stars.
February 22, 2019
Arhgggghhjjjuhhvvcc - that's the noise my brain is making at how bloody brilliant this book is.
Full review to come when I'm at my laptop and I can get some semblance of order back!
***
Righty, brain back sort of functioning so here we go. A bit more detail about why this book is so bloody brilliant. As with Book One A Ferry of Bones & Gold Hailey takes well know mythological Pantheons (Greek, Roman, Norse) and mixes them up with the lesser known ones.
In Ferry it was the folklore of West African, Egyptian and European cultures, here we're in South America with the Aztec Gods - Quetzalcoatl and Tepoztēcatl, the Mexican/Catholic death cult Goddess/saint Nuestra Señora de la Santa Muerte as well as the Native American trickster God Coyote or Altse Hashke and it is this blending together of powerful beings into a seamless narrative which is the hallmark of this series.
This plot is a complexly woven and intricately detailed navigation through an urban fantasy world which feels familiar to the reader but which has that otherworldly tinge to it. The after effects of the actions of Book One are still being felt at the opening of this one.
Patrick and Jono have settled into a sort of routine which is just starting to feel like normal when everything starts to kick off. As with the first one, I'm not giving away anything of the actual plot. These books deserve to be read blind and given the chance to work their clever magic on the readers.
I will say all the usual suspects are on hand, we see Hermes, (who I always picture as a used car salesman in my head :D ) and the Tempest Pack, Lucien the Master Vampire, (who is still hating on Patrick for the death of his mother Ashanti) and his crew, and the rotten to the core New York God Pack alphas Estelle and Youssef, who I want to punch in the face every time they're on page!
I'm not sure how many books Hailey is planning for this series but, for me, it's shaping up to be just as epic as her Sci-Fi Metahumans one. More please!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
As ever, the fangirling and mythology nerding are my own!
Full review to come when I'm at my laptop and I can get some semblance of order back!
***
Righty, brain back sort of functioning so here we go. A bit more detail about why this book is so bloody brilliant. As with Book One A Ferry of Bones & Gold Hailey takes well know mythological Pantheons (Greek, Roman, Norse) and mixes them up with the lesser known ones.
In Ferry it was the folklore of West African, Egyptian and European cultures, here we're in South America with the Aztec Gods - Quetzalcoatl and Tepoztēcatl, the Mexican/Catholic death cult Goddess/saint Nuestra Señora de la Santa Muerte as well as the Native American trickster God Coyote or Altse Hashke and it is this blending together of powerful beings into a seamless narrative which is the hallmark of this series.
This plot is a complexly woven and intricately detailed navigation through an urban fantasy world which feels familiar to the reader but which has that otherworldly tinge to it. The after effects of the actions of Book One are still being felt at the opening of this one.
Patrick and Jono have settled into a sort of routine which is just starting to feel like normal when everything starts to kick off. As with the first one, I'm not giving away anything of the actual plot. These books deserve to be read blind and given the chance to work their clever magic on the readers.
I will say all the usual suspects are on hand, we see Hermes, (who I always picture as a used car salesman in my head :D ) and the Tempest Pack, Lucien the Master Vampire, (who is still hating on Patrick for the death of his mother Ashanti) and his crew, and the rotten to the core New York God Pack alphas Estelle and Youssef, who I want to punch in the face every time they're on page!
I'm not sure how many books Hailey is planning for this series but, for me, it's shaping up to be just as epic as her Sci-Fi Metahumans one. More please!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
As ever, the fangirling and mythology nerding are my own!
December 30, 2025
Reread/Relisten #8: December 2025
Love this series more and more every time I pick it up!
Reread/Relisten #7: June 2024
🐉🥰
I love this pack and characters!
Reread/Relisten #6: February 2024
Wade is the true highlight of this book!
Reread/Relisten #5: September 2023
Not my favorite of the series, but we get Wade so that makes up for the slow parts! Haha 🐉 🔥 🐺 🪄
Now on to book three, and one day closer to Spencers book!
Reread/Relisten #4: January 2023
Wade, my sassy teen, you are one of my favorite characters in this series besides Jono. This series is a great way to start the year! haha
Reread/Relisten #3: December 2021
Still love this series and audiobook it’s a great time
And also WADE 🥰
Reread/relisten #2: September 2021
Same as before, i am gearing up for the last book of the series and going through all of these book again is a treat.
I do think that as of right now this might be my least favorite, it does lull in the middle but the ending more than makes up for it.
ReRead/ReListen: June 2021
Same as before for the ratings, Wade is one of my favorite characters in this series besides Jono.
I love this series so much.
4 stars: March 2021
This book was good I like how Jono and Patrick’s relationship is progressing. Also I enjoyed all the interactions with all the other characters.
Compared to her Metahuman series this is very tame in the steam because it doesn’t happen as frequently, which honestly I think makes the story better, since it’s more focused on the plot.
And Wade, what a great addition to this group haha he reminded me of Zero from “Destiny of Dragons” by TJ Klune. A sassy teen bringing some much needed comedy to the book haha
Love this series more and more every time I pick it up!
Reread/Relisten #7: June 2024
🐉🥰
I love this pack and characters!
Reread/Relisten #6: February 2024
Wade is the true highlight of this book!
Reread/Relisten #5: September 2023
Not my favorite of the series, but we get Wade so that makes up for the slow parts! Haha 🐉 🔥 🐺 🪄
Now on to book three, and one day closer to Spencers book!
Reread/Relisten #4: January 2023
Wade, my sassy teen, you are one of my favorite characters in this series besides Jono. This series is a great way to start the year! haha
Reread/Relisten #3: December 2021
Still love this series and audiobook it’s a great time
And also WADE 🥰
Reread/relisten #2: September 2021
Same as before, i am gearing up for the last book of the series and going through all of these book again is a treat.
I do think that as of right now this might be my least favorite, it does lull in the middle but the ending more than makes up for it.
ReRead/ReListen: June 2021
Same as before for the ratings, Wade is one of my favorite characters in this series besides Jono.
I love this series so much.
4 stars: March 2021
This book was good I like how Jono and Patrick’s relationship is progressing. Also I enjoyed all the interactions with all the other characters.
Compared to her Metahuman series this is very tame in the steam because it doesn’t happen as frequently, which honestly I think makes the story better, since it’s more focused on the plot.
And Wade, what a great addition to this group haha he reminded me of Zero from “Destiny of Dragons” by TJ Klune. A sassy teen bringing some much needed comedy to the book haha
April 18, 2020
4.5 stars
April 7, 2026
✅ Plot
✅ Pace
✅ Magic and paranormal creatures
✅ Characters
✅ World-building
✅(🆗) Romance
🆗 New characters’ names
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: murders, mild gore, ritualistic kills
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️🌶️.5 / 5
3.5 stars
I liked this book more than the first one. The plot felt less all over the place and more engaging overall. It was easier to follow everything that was happening because I am used to the world-building and many characters now. Still, there are new Aztec Gods in this book, and their names sounded so similar in the audiobook that I struggled to differentiate them, and I just gave up after a while.
I did enjoy the expansion of the world-building. It is interesting to see how the author mixes Greek, Egyptian, Norse, and now Aztec deities, and how it works even though I thought at first that it was a little too much to have all of them involved.
Jono was more interesting in this sequel. He played a bigger role (meaning he was more than Pat’s sexy accessory), and he is showing more layers than in the first book. The way he is starting to stand up for New York shifters, and his willingness to oppose the alphas of the God-Pack make him more likable, for sure. I really enjoyed the pack politics we saw in this book, and I wouldn’t have minded more confrontations between Jono and the God-Pack.
On the other hand, Pat frustrated me in this book. I admire his willingness to step up to defend everyone, but his self-sacrificing tendencies are becoming a little annoying. I feel that all he does in this book is throw himself headfirst into danger, and does not take the time to rely on all the people around him who want to help him and keep him safe. I get that he is not used to having a work partner, but he has friends now, and he needs to learn to let them care for him just as he cares for them.
The romance between Jono and Pat continues to progress, but I wish I could enjoy it more. It is not a bad romance, but it’s not great and butterfly-inducing either. I said in my review of the first book that I felt no real chemistry between Jono and Pat, and it was a better in this sequel, but I still feel that there is something missing between them. They are supposed to share this soul-bond and are willing to die for each other, but I don’t feel this intensity between them. Sure, they care for each other, but not as much as the author wants me to believe they do.
Jono is sweet and amazing, and Pat is a good person, too. I just don’t feel that they have such a strong and deep connection…
Wade is an interesting new character, and I hope we will see more of him. For now, he seems happy to stay with Pat and Jono, and I think I can really grow to love their little mismatched family, so hopefully, Wade will remain with them and continue to be involved in the series.
I will continue with this series, as I already have the third book on Audible, and I am curious to see where Pat and Jono will end up, but I was hoping to be more engaged in their story by now… With chance, it will happen in the next book, because I think the third instalment will be a "make it or break it" book for me.
1. A Ferry of Bones & Gold ⭐⭐.5
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✅ Pace
✅ Magic and paranormal creatures
✅ Characters
✅ World-building
✅(🆗) Romance
🆗 New characters’ names
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: murders, mild gore, ritualistic kills
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️🌶️.5 / 5
3.5 stars
I liked this book more than the first one. The plot felt less all over the place and more engaging overall. It was easier to follow everything that was happening because I am used to the world-building and many characters now. Still, there are new Aztec Gods in this book, and their names sounded so similar in the audiobook that I struggled to differentiate them, and I just gave up after a while.
I did enjoy the expansion of the world-building. It is interesting to see how the author mixes Greek, Egyptian, Norse, and now Aztec deities, and how it works even though I thought at first that it was a little too much to have all of them involved.
Jono was more interesting in this sequel. He played a bigger role (meaning he was more than Pat’s sexy accessory), and he is showing more layers than in the first book. The way he is starting to stand up for New York shifters, and his willingness to oppose the alphas of the God-Pack make him more likable, for sure. I really enjoyed the pack politics we saw in this book, and I wouldn’t have minded more confrontations between Jono and the God-Pack.
On the other hand, Pat frustrated me in this book. I admire his willingness to step up to defend everyone, but his self-sacrificing tendencies are becoming a little annoying. I feel that all he does in this book is throw himself headfirst into danger, and does not take the time to rely on all the people around him who want to help him and keep him safe. I get that he is not used to having a work partner, but he has friends now, and he needs to learn to let them care for him just as he cares for them.
The romance between Jono and Pat continues to progress, but I wish I could enjoy it more. It is not a bad romance, but it’s not great and butterfly-inducing either. I said in my review of the first book that I felt no real chemistry between Jono and Pat, and it was a better in this sequel, but I still feel that there is something missing between them. They are supposed to share this soul-bond and are willing to die for each other, but I don’t feel this intensity between them. Sure, they care for each other, but not as much as the author wants me to believe they do.
Jono is sweet and amazing, and Pat is a good person, too. I just don’t feel that they have such a strong and deep connection…
Wade is an interesting new character, and I hope we will see more of him. For now, he seems happy to stay with Pat and Jono, and I think I can really grow to love their little mismatched family, so hopefully, Wade will remain with them and continue to be involved in the series.
I will continue with this series, as I already have the third book on Audible, and I am curious to see where Pat and Jono will end up, but I was hoping to be more engaged in their story by now… With chance, it will happen in the next book, because I think the third instalment will be a "make it or break it" book for me.
1. A Ferry of Bones & Gold ⭐⭐.5
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August 18, 2020
5 Stars!
I really enjoyed the first book, but this one was AWESOME! I know most probably hate Lucien, but I kinda like him. I'm a sucker for the assholes sometimes. But mostly I like the dynamic between Patrick and him. There is definitely no love loss between them, but I kinda enjoy their bickering and fighting. I also enjoy the reaction Lucien pulls out of Jono where Patrick is concerned. The possessiveness. The way he steps in and wants to protect Patrick has me feeling all kinds of swoony emotions. But I was glad to have some more Lucien.
This one was action packed with a lot going on. I was quickly hooked and read it pretty fast. The stuff going on with the God Pack was SO GOOD in this one. I think I may have even fist pumped at one moment with the way Jono handles himself with them in this book. Then there is the war turf going on with the vampires with Lucien wanting to take over a territory from a vampire he made. The vampire drug shine (made from their blood) is making its rounds and dead werecreature bodies that are laced with it are being dumped in the subway. This becomes Patrick's new case. While Patrick investigates he finds evidence that there have been disappearances of werecreatures and the ones that have been found dead have defensive wounds from silver and bruising indicating they have been kept locked up. Soon they figure out the drug has ties with Lucien's turf war and that brings everything together weaving quite the story. Like I mentioned before, there is a lot of action happening in this one. I was on the edge of my seat a lot waiting to see what would happen next. I hate saying too much because I never want to spoil it for those who want to read this, but haven't. So I'll stop there.
Jono really shines in this one. His and Patrick's relationship is new and they are still figuring out how to find their footing with that and how their soulbound works between them. Patrick still makes rash decisions forgetting that he's not alone anymore and that his decisions effect more than him. But Jono is committed to this relationship even without the soulbound binding them together and will follow Patrick into any fight. He's not alone in feeling that way. Patrick feels a fierce need to protect Jono as well and shows it with how he backs Jono up against the God Pack. I LOVE these two together.
We meet a new character in this book who just about stole the show. Wade. His unruly attitude and bottomless stomach took a piece of my heart and never gave it back. I adore him and pick pocking ways. He's a treat and I can't wait to see how much he impacts the stories to come and Pat and Jono's lives.
On to the next!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given a copy of this book by A Novel Take PR in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the first book, but this one was AWESOME! I know most probably hate Lucien, but I kinda like him. I'm a sucker for the assholes sometimes. But mostly I like the dynamic between Patrick and him. There is definitely no love loss between them, but I kinda enjoy their bickering and fighting. I also enjoy the reaction Lucien pulls out of Jono where Patrick is concerned. The possessiveness. The way he steps in and wants to protect Patrick has me feeling all kinds of swoony emotions. But I was glad to have some more Lucien.
This one was action packed with a lot going on. I was quickly hooked and read it pretty fast. The stuff going on with the God Pack was SO GOOD in this one. I think I may have even fist pumped at one moment with the way Jono handles himself with them in this book. Then there is the war turf going on with the vampires with Lucien wanting to take over a territory from a vampire he made. The vampire drug shine (made from their blood) is making its rounds and dead werecreature bodies that are laced with it are being dumped in the subway. This becomes Patrick's new case. While Patrick investigates he finds evidence that there have been disappearances of werecreatures and the ones that have been found dead have defensive wounds from silver and bruising indicating they have been kept locked up. Soon they figure out the drug has ties with Lucien's turf war and that brings everything together weaving quite the story. Like I mentioned before, there is a lot of action happening in this one. I was on the edge of my seat a lot waiting to see what would happen next. I hate saying too much because I never want to spoil it for those who want to read this, but haven't. So I'll stop there.
Jono really shines in this one. His and Patrick's relationship is new and they are still figuring out how to find their footing with that and how their soulbound works between them. Patrick still makes rash decisions forgetting that he's not alone anymore and that his decisions effect more than him. But Jono is committed to this relationship even without the soulbound binding them together and will follow Patrick into any fight. He's not alone in feeling that way. Patrick feels a fierce need to protect Jono as well and shows it with how he backs Jono up against the God Pack. I LOVE these two together.
We meet a new character in this book who just about stole the show. Wade. His unruly attitude and bottomless stomach took a piece of my heart and never gave it back. I adore him and pick pocking ways. He's a treat and I can't wait to see how much he impacts the stories to come and Pat and Jono's lives.
On to the next!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given a copy of this book by A Novel Take PR in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2025
05/30/2025 reread
08/07/2024 reread
06/06/2023 reread
10/20/2022 reread
8/14/2021 reread. I still find Wade hilarious. Jono and Pat are so well suited. I enjoyed it despite some convos sounding a tad repetitive. It didn't take away from the story for me.
I really enjoyed the first book in Soulbound series but this one was outstanding! I loved the characters, the interspecies relations, the politics and intrigues - everything melded together into thrilling and fascinating story. Fast-paced, full of adventure and sense of belonging this book grips you from the start.
Between werecreature murders and squabbling vampires Patrick can't catch a break. Still recovering mentally from all the events in June, he is thrust headfirst into a case that brings him dangerously close to death. But even amidst of pain and fear Patrick has a shoulder to lean on. Jono is there for him no matter what. They grow closer, their bond solidifies and they form a pack. Patrick might be reckless but I love how selfless he is. He accepts Jono and, I believe, loves him fiercely even though none of them admit to their feelings. He is protective, loyal and has sarcastic sense of humor - I can't help but like him.
Jonothon de Vere is ready. He accepts responsibility and truly cares for werecreatures. He constantly butts heads with god pack alphas. When push comes to shove he takes Sage and Wade under his wing. I really liked Jono here. He is such a bada$$! The way he stands up for his pack and Patrick, the way he never backs down and how he cares for Patrick is just amazing. There were moments when both Patrick and Jono were going through tough times, and not once did Jono leave. He was what Patrick needed at the moment - his strength, his resilience and his comfort.
Aztec gods and vampires versus god pack alpha and mage - so much subterfuge, tip toeing, taunting and outright fighting kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved ancient gods in modern setting working as DEA and teaming up with Patrick and Jono to bring order back to New York City. It was wicked cool! The showmanship of the gods, their egos and religious beliefs mixed with urban legends made the culmination of the book explosive. In the end Patrick and Jono were alive, almost dept free and had a pack to care for. It is not much but it's theirs, and neither the Dominion Sect nor the Gods will take it from them. Amazeballs! I loved it all and highly recommend it! Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
08/07/2024 reread
06/06/2023 reread
10/20/2022 reread
8/14/2021 reread. I still find Wade hilarious. Jono and Pat are so well suited. I enjoyed it despite some convos sounding a tad repetitive. It didn't take away from the story for me.
I really enjoyed the first book in Soulbound series but this one was outstanding! I loved the characters, the interspecies relations, the politics and intrigues - everything melded together into thrilling and fascinating story. Fast-paced, full of adventure and sense of belonging this book grips you from the start.
Between werecreature murders and squabbling vampires Patrick can't catch a break. Still recovering mentally from all the events in June, he is thrust headfirst into a case that brings him dangerously close to death. But even amidst of pain and fear Patrick has a shoulder to lean on. Jono is there for him no matter what. They grow closer, their bond solidifies and they form a pack. Patrick might be reckless but I love how selfless he is. He accepts Jono and, I believe, loves him fiercely even though none of them admit to their feelings. He is protective, loyal and has sarcastic sense of humor - I can't help but like him.
Jonothon de Vere is ready. He accepts responsibility and truly cares for werecreatures. He constantly butts heads with god pack alphas. When push comes to shove he takes Sage and Wade under his wing. I really liked Jono here. He is such a bada$$! The way he stands up for his pack and Patrick, the way he never backs down and how he cares for Patrick is just amazing. There were moments when both Patrick and Jono were going through tough times, and not once did Jono leave. He was what Patrick needed at the moment - his strength, his resilience and his comfort.
Aztec gods and vampires versus god pack alpha and mage - so much subterfuge, tip toeing, taunting and outright fighting kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved ancient gods in modern setting working as DEA and teaming up with Patrick and Jono to bring order back to New York City. It was wicked cool! The showmanship of the gods, their egos and religious beliefs mixed with urban legends made the culmination of the book explosive. In the end Patrick and Jono were alive, almost dept free and had a pack to care for. It is not much but it's theirs, and neither the Dominion Sect nor the Gods will take it from them. Amazeballs! I loved it all and highly recommend it! Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
November 3, 2020
2.5 this was very very dry. As evidenced by the fact that it took me 7 effing days to read it because I kept reaching for literally anything else.
I still like Pat and Jono, but I didn’t feel like there was any moving forward of their relationship or personal character development.
The mess of gods from all different pantheons was a little too deus ex machina at any given moment.
And though I met a new character that I feel like should’ve have been my new favorite, I still didn’t get a chance to form real connection to him.
Having a hard time wanting to stay on this train.
I still like Pat and Jono, but I didn’t feel like there was any moving forward of their relationship or personal character development.
The mess of gods from all different pantheons was a little too deus ex machina at any given moment.
And though I met a new character that I feel like should’ve have been my new favorite, I still didn’t get a chance to form real connection to him.
Having a hard time wanting to stay on this train.
March 24, 2019
I absolutely
adored
this!
It was much better going into this second installment knowing that romance wasn't the main focus (for the first book I didn't seen the note at the end of the blurb and thought it was be romance with a fantasy subplot not fantasy with a romance subplot) and that I wasn't going to get a ton of focus on Patrick and Jono and their moments were going to be more weaved in and out throughout the story.
I was much happier with the two sex scenes we got (one at the beginning and one at the very end) in this then with the last book. I felt in the first book that it was lacking, which was weird to say about a Hailey Turner sex scene, but that's what happened. I felt they were much better written this book, much more Hailey Turner's style. I felt their heat and passion and love coming through (even if they aren't at "I love you's" yet.)
The story was really interesting and riveting. It's August, two months or so after the events of the first book, and this starts with Patrick just getting back from an assignment out of New York, and he's immediately thrown into a new one, and this time he needs to bring Jono, his boyfriend, in on the case. (Wish we could get them calling each other boyfriends at least once. I know Patrick still has a way to go in opening up and they've only know each other for two months, but hell, they live together, they only want each other...time to call each other boyfriends :D)
Obviously, Patrick can never stay out of trouble for very long, and when it turns out the dead body is a werecreature that is tied to a vampire coven called the Manhattan Night Court - and that Lucien, the vampire from the first book, wrangles Patrick (and by extension Jono) into helping him take over - things get a lot more complicated.
I do want to warn for:
I loved the small romantic moments woven throughout this book between Patrick and Jono. No, it wasn't much and these definitely don't have their relationship front and center, but it is still a focus, even if not the main one. I think we got a deepening of their relationship in this one. Patrick loosened up a little and let Jono in a little more, I think, and they got closer and closer to love, if they aren't there already (or, since they haven't realized it already.)
There's a huge, exciting showdown at the end too and the soulbond, of course, comes into play. Ethan and his Dominion Sect are still at large and causing trouble, but he wasn't in this book, thankfully. But the ending definitely sets up the next book for Ethan and his Sect to come back, and I have a feeling what Patrick has to do in the next book will not be fun either and Patrick & Jono and the secondary character's lives will, of course, be at risk. What else is new.
Overall such an excellent second installment in this series and so different but in some ways similar to Turner's Metahuman Files series. I love how even if this isn't romance focused she is able to keep this so exciting and nail biting and riveting. My hats off to Hailey Turner for a wonderfully written book. Two big thumbs up from me!
It was much better going into this second installment knowing that romance wasn't the main focus (for the first book I didn't seen the note at the end of the blurb and thought it was be romance with a fantasy subplot not fantasy with a romance subplot) and that I wasn't going to get a ton of focus on Patrick and Jono and their moments were going to be more weaved in and out throughout the story.
I was much happier with the two sex scenes we got (one at the beginning and one at the very end) in this then with the last book. I felt in the first book that it was lacking, which was weird to say about a Hailey Turner sex scene, but that's what happened. I felt they were much better written this book, much more Hailey Turner's style. I felt their heat and passion and love coming through (even if they aren't at "I love you's" yet.)
The story was really interesting and riveting. It's August, two months or so after the events of the first book, and this starts with Patrick just getting back from an assignment out of New York, and he's immediately thrown into a new one, and this time he needs to bring Jono, his boyfriend, in on the case. (Wish we could get them calling each other boyfriends at least once. I know Patrick still has a way to go in opening up and they've only know each other for two months, but hell, they live together, they only want each other...time to call each other boyfriends :D)
Obviously, Patrick can never stay out of trouble for very long, and when it turns out the dead body is a werecreature that is tied to a vampire coven called the Manhattan Night Court - and that Lucien, the vampire from the first book, wrangles Patrick (and by extension Jono) into helping him take over - things get a lot more complicated.
I do want to warn for:
I loved the small romantic moments woven throughout this book between Patrick and Jono. No, it wasn't much and these definitely don't have their relationship front and center, but it is still a focus, even if not the main one. I think we got a deepening of their relationship in this one. Patrick loosened up a little and let Jono in a little more, I think, and they got closer and closer to love, if they aren't there already (or, since they haven't realized it already.)
There's a huge, exciting showdown at the end too and the soulbond, of course, comes into play. Ethan and his Dominion Sect are still at large and causing trouble, but he wasn't in this book, thankfully. But the ending definitely sets up the next book for Ethan and his Sect to come back, and I have a feeling what Patrick has to do in the next book will not be fun either and Patrick & Jono and the secondary character's lives will, of course, be at risk. What else is new.
Overall such an excellent second installment in this series and so different but in some ways similar to Turner's Metahuman Files series. I love how even if this isn't romance focused she is able to keep this so exciting and nail biting and riveting. My hats off to Hailey Turner for a wonderfully written book. Two big thumbs up from me!
October 14, 2024
Book 2 really took the world building and foundations introduced in book 1 and efficiently used all those pieces to flesh out and expand on the world and characters in a satisfying way. Also! Dragons!
I enjoyed the focus this installment had on pack dynamics, politics and watching Jono start to find his pack, stepping into that Alpha role he was born to play. He and Patrick really have that whole power couple vibe coming in strong which I love and I can tell that the found family vibes will just continue to develop as the books go on. (Turner continues to hit the right balance for me of a few well written spicy scenes used to great effect)
The introduction of the Aztec gods was a nice change from the Greek Pantheon gods in book 1. Including gods from all different cultures really allows for so much freedom in potential storylines which I appreciate and you can already see potential directions that might get explored in later books.
I enjoyed book 2 more than book 1 and it gives me hope that the stories will just continue to build and improve as things develop. I suspect that although there are 7 books that it won’t take me long to blow through them 😂.
Slight content warning for human trafficking and an on page scene where Patrick is SA’d whilst under the influence but things don’t progress very far.
I enjoyed the focus this installment had on pack dynamics, politics and watching Jono start to find his pack, stepping into that Alpha role he was born to play. He and Patrick really have that whole power couple vibe coming in strong which I love and I can tell that the found family vibes will just continue to develop as the books go on. (Turner continues to hit the right balance for me of a few well written spicy scenes used to great effect)
The introduction of the Aztec gods was a nice change from the Greek Pantheon gods in book 1. Including gods from all different cultures really allows for so much freedom in potential storylines which I appreciate and you can already see potential directions that might get explored in later books.
I enjoyed book 2 more than book 1 and it gives me hope that the stories will just continue to build and improve as things develop. I suspect that although there are 7 books that it won’t take me long to blow through them 😂.
Slight content warning for human trafficking and an on page scene where Patrick is SA’d whilst under the influence but things don’t progress very far.
August 30, 2025
4.25 stars
More rollicking, explosive battles ensue when Patrick grudgingly agrees to help the viscous master vampire Lucien take over one of the local night courts. Mix in werewolves, jaguars, gods from multiple pantheons, and a fledgling dragon, and you’ve got non-stop, blood & gore, blow-‘em-up, spellbound action. I’ll admit I didn’t like this one quite as well as the first one, but it’s a worthy addition to this this wonderful urban fantasy series. I kept wishing Jono would do the big reveal to the other god packs! Maybe in #3?
More rollicking, explosive battles ensue when Patrick grudgingly agrees to help the viscous master vampire Lucien take over one of the local night courts. Mix in werewolves, jaguars, gods from multiple pantheons, and a fledgling dragon, and you’ve got non-stop, blood & gore, blow-‘em-up, spellbound action. I’ll admit I didn’t like this one quite as well as the first one, but it’s a worthy addition to this this wonderful urban fantasy series. I kept wishing Jono would do the big reveal to the other god packs! Maybe in #3?
September 23, 2023
Another enjoyable book in the series, I liked this more than book 1. I still think the author is trying to do a bit too much and could be edited way down. But I especially like Wade and his pick picketing and non stop eating.
March 17, 2019
4.5 Stars
All Souls Near & Nigh, just like A Ferry of Bones & Gold is my kind of urban fantasy! Lots of mythology, meddling Gods, errant vampires, and a thieving, hungry dragon ... in New York City. What could go wrong? It's a good thing New Yorkers can take pretty much anything, because if it can happen, it did happen in this book.
Patrick Collins is settling into his life with Jono, being soulbound and part of Jono's pack. There's a lot for him to get used to, and he's not the type of guy that knows how to relax and let someone else in. Jono is making headway, though, since the events of book 1, showing Patrick that their bond is more than the soulbond. He hasn't quite accepted it all, yet, but he's getting there.
Jono de Vere is a god pack alpha, without a pack...well, officially. He skirts the rules and is nearing the time when he will no longer follow them at all. No one will take Patrick from him and no one will make him feel like he's less than. Jono is just biding his time until he finally lets his patron God out to play. I look forward to that day...heads are gonna roll!
All Souls Near & Nigh is action packed and fast paced and I'm a little surprised that they came out of it intact! Mixed in the ever amusing inter-species politics and immortals that just won't mind their own business, is a very rich infusion of South American mythology. I just loved it!
This series is amazing and has quickly become a favorite. I look forward to getting more! The characters are rich and well-drawn, and the plot lines gripping and I find myself speculating on where the author is going to take the series and the characters I've grown to love. I. Can't Wait.
Recommended! (Start with book 1)
-----------------
ARC of All Souls Near & Nigh was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
All Souls Near & Nigh, just like A Ferry of Bones & Gold is my kind of urban fantasy! Lots of mythology, meddling Gods, errant vampires, and a thieving, hungry dragon ... in New York City. What could go wrong? It's a good thing New Yorkers can take pretty much anything, because if it can happen, it did happen in this book.
Patrick Collins is settling into his life with Jono, being soulbound and part of Jono's pack. There's a lot for him to get used to, and he's not the type of guy that knows how to relax and let someone else in. Jono is making headway, though, since the events of book 1, showing Patrick that their bond is more than the soulbond. He hasn't quite accepted it all, yet, but he's getting there.
Jono de Vere is a god pack alpha, without a pack...well, officially. He skirts the rules and is nearing the time when he will no longer follow them at all. No one will take Patrick from him and no one will make him feel like he's less than. Jono is just biding his time until he finally lets his patron God out to play. I look forward to that day...heads are gonna roll!
All Souls Near & Nigh is action packed and fast paced and I'm a little surprised that they came out of it intact! Mixed in the ever amusing inter-species politics and immortals that just won't mind their own business, is a very rich infusion of South American mythology. I just loved it!
This series is amazing and has quickly become a favorite. I look forward to getting more! The characters are rich and well-drawn, and the plot lines gripping and I find myself speculating on where the author is going to take the series and the characters I've grown to love. I. Can't Wait.
Recommended! (Start with book 1)
-----------------
ARC of All Souls Near & Nigh was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2025
This sequel really said, ‘Oh, you thought the world-building was amazing before? Hold my poodle and say hi to these random gods from Aztec mythology!
Honest question, how do people even pronounce in their heads “Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca”? Like I know because I grew up knowing about them but like
How?
Honest question, how do people even pronounce in their heads “Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca”? Like I know because I grew up knowing about them but like
How?
March 21, 2019
The driving motif of All Souls Near and Nigh is quite literally Deus Ex Machina. More than once, our protagonists, Patrick and Jono, are saved from impossible situations by one god or another, Patrick because he owes a goddess a soul debt, while Jono has a god living in his soul (more or less).
This time around, we are dealing mainly with gods based on Mexican (or Mesoamerican) religions - with a little bit of Navajo thrown in - both of the ancient and modern variety. If I have a niggle about the book, it’s that the gods characters were a little shallow - it would have been super interesting to get more into the mythology other than just the appearance (which in some cases could have come directly from Wikipedia → the first stop on my many google searches while reading this book).
As the story went on, I noticed Patrick’s very Jesus-like martyr quality and I wonder if it’s intentional. He just really, really loves to sacrifice himself for the good of humanity. Having said that, I would love for Jesus to show up as one of the immortals, an insufferable hippie, if you will.
As with previous Hailey Turner books, there’s a lot of well-written action and urban destruction, which is always fun, and as always, the female characters are no-nonsense and kick-ass. Slowly but surely, Jono’s god pack is expanding, and I’m really looking forward to that storyline continuing.
This time around, we are dealing mainly with gods based on Mexican (or Mesoamerican) religions - with a little bit of Navajo thrown in - both of the ancient and modern variety. If I have a niggle about the book, it’s that the gods characters were a little shallow - it would have been super interesting to get more into the mythology other than just the appearance (which in some cases could have come directly from Wikipedia → the first stop on my many google searches while reading this book).
As the story went on, I noticed Patrick’s very Jesus-like martyr quality and I wonder if it’s intentional. He just really, really loves to sacrifice himself for the good of humanity. Having said that, I would love for Jesus to show up as one of the immortals, an insufferable hippie, if you will.
As with previous Hailey Turner books, there’s a lot of well-written action and urban destruction, which is always fun, and as always, the female characters are no-nonsense and kick-ass. Slowly but surely, Jono’s god pack is expanding, and I’m really looking forward to that storyline continuing.
February 17, 2020
Audio Review 17Feb2020: No Change
Not gonna ding the star rating since evidently I was rounding up last year and I really enjoyed the narration - and I loved Gary's accent for Jono. I can't believe how good a job he did with repeatedly saying those MesoAmerican gods' names! Seriously, when I read this the first time by the middle of the book I was shortening names (in my head) like Tezcatlipoca to Tez & Quetzalcoatl to Quetz (despite Patrick nicknaming him Pretzel)...
My only complaint is that I wish Hailey had done what Charlie Cochet did with the THIRDS audiobooks and included the glossary at the beginning of the audiobook so I could remember/figure out who was who in the mythology. Despite how well Gary did with the names I still found myself having to concentrate extra hard or rewinding until everything clicked finally. (In this case I think having the book made keeping the names straight because I could see them in print...and I wish the ebook had the glossary at the beginning, not as an appendix.)
That said: So excited to get to Book 3!!
Original Rating 31Mar2019: 4.5 Stars
I wasn't as familiar with the pantheon used in this one, so I'm glad there was an appendix/glossary...
This one started off with a little less frenzy, but made up for in a big way later. BIG. HYOOOOGE. Seriously, when/if I visit NYC again I'm gonna be very wary of visiting . (I think I might be a bit crazy in that regard, but whatevs.) Once again I found myself forgoing sleep in order to finish it. (So, maybe 7 hours over the course of 2 nights? SO. EFFING. TIRED.) No regrets, though. Worth it.
And OMFG I hope there is a Book 3 in the works because that last bit about the sounds incredibly intriguing. Very Indiana Jones-esque with a hint of Hydra? Sign. Me. Up!! (On the one hand I'm crying that it's not out yet, on the other hand I am exhausted and need time to catch up on my rest!)
(Also, I mentioned in my review for Book 1 that Hailey had one hell of an Alpha/Beta reader team behind her. Well, that stable of friends and colleagues has only gotten stronger because there's even MORE of them; great writers in their own right, too! I'm seriously impressed.)
Not gonna ding the star rating since evidently I was rounding up last year and I really enjoyed the narration - and I loved Gary's accent for Jono. I can't believe how good a job he did with repeatedly saying those MesoAmerican gods' names! Seriously, when I read this the first time by the middle of the book I was shortening names (in my head) like Tezcatlipoca to Tez & Quetzalcoatl to Quetz (despite Patrick nicknaming him Pretzel)...
My only complaint is that I wish Hailey had done what Charlie Cochet did with the THIRDS audiobooks and included the glossary at the beginning of the audiobook so I could remember/figure out who was who in the mythology. Despite how well Gary did with the names I still found myself having to concentrate extra hard or rewinding until everything clicked finally. (In this case I think having the book made keeping the names straight because I could see them in print...and I wish the ebook had the glossary at the beginning, not as an appendix.)
That said: So excited to get to Book 3!!
Original Rating 31Mar2019: 4.5 Stars
I wasn't as familiar with the pantheon used in this one, so I'm glad there was an appendix/glossary...
This one started off with a little less frenzy, but made up for in a big way later. BIG. HYOOOOGE. Seriously, when/if I visit NYC again I'm gonna be very wary of visiting . (I think I might be a bit crazy in that regard, but whatevs.) Once again I found myself forgoing sleep in order to finish it. (So, maybe 7 hours over the course of 2 nights? SO. EFFING. TIRED.) No regrets, though. Worth it.
And OMFG I hope there is a Book 3 in the works because that last bit about the sounds incredibly intriguing. Very Indiana Jones-esque with a hint of Hydra? Sign. Me. Up!! (On the one hand I'm crying that it's not out yet, on the other hand I am exhausted and need time to catch up on my rest!)
(Also, I mentioned in my review for Book 1 that Hailey had one hell of an Alpha/Beta reader team behind her. Well, that stable of friends and colleagues has only gotten stronger because there's even MORE of them; great writers in their own right, too! I'm seriously impressed.)
April 6, 2019
Let’s be honest, the second book in the series is hardly ever as good as the first one. But thank goodness, this is not a case here. I loved A Ferry of Bones & Gold and I am glad to announce that All Souls Near & Nigh is just as great.
First of all, the plot is truly outstanding. It’s fascinating with just enough twists and turns. With enough action to keep you on the edge of your sit and enough explanations and descriptions not to be just a rush of events. The plot is fully developed and well-thought-out. And, what is even more important, it is not just a retelling of the previous book, this one is truly different and unique.
Then we’ve got Jono and Patrick. I fall in love with them in the previous book, so reading this book was like meeting old friends. I love how they interact with each other, the way they work together. And I’m really thankful that this is not one of these second books in the series where one of the heroes is mostly absent for the story. I saw this happen a lot but fortunately Patrick and Jono work together from the very beginning. This is their story, not Patrick’s, not Jono’s but both of them.
Another think I like is the lack of some serious fight or breakup between them. Again, I saw those in many other books and never really liked. I like my characters dealing with the problems as they come without some excessive drama in their relationship. Watching Patrick and Jono work in unison and navigate their lives is a pleasure.
This is probably one of the best not-the -first-in-the-series books I have read for some time. I can’t get enough of Patrick and Jono. Waiting with anticipation for the next book in series!
First of all, the plot is truly outstanding. It’s fascinating with just enough twists and turns. With enough action to keep you on the edge of your sit and enough explanations and descriptions not to be just a rush of events. The plot is fully developed and well-thought-out. And, what is even more important, it is not just a retelling of the previous book, this one is truly different and unique.
Then we’ve got Jono and Patrick. I fall in love with them in the previous book, so reading this book was like meeting old friends. I love how they interact with each other, the way they work together. And I’m really thankful that this is not one of these second books in the series where one of the heroes is mostly absent for the story. I saw this happen a lot but fortunately Patrick and Jono work together from the very beginning. This is their story, not Patrick’s, not Jono’s but both of them.
Another think I like is the lack of some serious fight or breakup between them. Again, I saw those in many other books and never really liked. I like my characters dealing with the problems as they come without some excessive drama in their relationship. Watching Patrick and Jono work in unison and navigate their lives is a pleasure.
This is probably one of the best not-the -first-in-the-series books I have read for some time. I can’t get enough of Patrick and Jono. Waiting with anticipation for the next book in series!
July 22, 2019
After the first book, I complained that Jono was not particularly embedded in the story. I mean, he did have a purpose other than being the love interest. But he was not present that much, he was more of a spectator.
In book 2 I got my wish. We got more chapters from his POV, way more... aaand he even got his forgotten accent back. Yay for that. :) He got a more important role in this whole debacle... My problem with that role however is that it felt exactly like that... a role. I didn't feel like Jono wanted to be the alpha of all alphas. He does not agree with the current leaders and knows they need to be replaced, but I don't think he wants to be the one to replace them, however, since there isn't anybody else, and the gods and fates did lure him in the city for a reason... it will be his job... eventually. But I don't really get a strong leader vibe from him at all. He would be content to just be there right beside Patrick, as his partner. It felt completely fake when he acted like the big bad wolf. So I'm not sure what direction the story will take... but this problem needs to be solved.
I really liked that we got to see Patrick in a vulnerable state. Sure he saved the day at the end, but there was one moment when he needed someone else to be strong and take over for a little while. Heroes need rest sometimes. I like his connection to Jono, though I feel like his feelings towards Jono are a bit stronger. Not that Jono's acts proves different....ugh. To be completely honest, I think Jono's character ended up being flat. Sure he has good traits, but I just don't feel any kind of connection to him. I'm neutral about him. If he'd die, the only reason I would be sad, because I don't want Patrick to suffer. But Jesus, even Casale (human chief of police) has a more distinguishable personality than Jono.
The storyline of book 1 was stronger, only because Patrick had personal involvement there. Here it was more about the war between vampires and werecreatures and their territory, add some Aztec Gods with stupid-sounding names to the mix and you get a clusterfuck.
Old characters are back and some new ones. I can't wait for you guys to meet Wade. So adorable. :)
Overall... other than Jono himself, I didn't really have a problem with this book. And like I said I was neutral towards him. I did enjoy the plot of book 1 more. And Jono got an upgrade, compared to book 1, so it looks promising. I'm still really enjoying this series. I'm also hoping we get to see Pat operate with his old team. I'm curious. And I desperately want to see a fully functioning dragon in action. :D
April 29, 2019
Pat is back at it...
3.75 stars
The gods still can't seem to leave Patrick alone.
New enemies arise.
Patrick and Jono's relationship continues to blossom through the chaos.
Old enemies are still causing trouble.
Jono forms a new pack.
New York was close to being destroyed.
Patrick and his crew come in to save the day once again.
A good addition to the series. I look forward to the next.
3.75 stars
The gods still can't seem to leave Patrick alone.
New enemies arise.
Patrick and Jono's relationship continues to blossom through the chaos.
Old enemies are still causing trouble.
Jono forms a new pack.
New York was close to being destroyed.
Patrick and his crew come in to save the day once again.
A good addition to the series. I look forward to the next.
March 15, 2021
I would've liked this book so much better if it weren't for all the repetition.
It also needed a bit more steam IMO .
The narration is EPIC.
It also needed a bit more steam IMO .
The narration is EPIC.
July 18, 2019
4 Stars
Review:
This was another great, enjoyable, well-written urban fantasy book! And this one even had more intensity and emotion than the first.
The characterization was great again. I love that the characters are not perfect (e.g. Patrick's smoking and drinking and the way he keeps his thoughts and emotions and info close to the vest, Jono's temper when dealing with people he doesn't like) but are still so likeable.
Side note: Lucien and Carmen are absolutely terrible, and I want a book about them. Total power couple.
I liked that Patrick and Jono's relationship clearly had genuine care and devotion (I have such a weakness for those scenes when a character helps their unwell partner wash in the shower while their own fully clothed body gets soaking wet), but it wasn't perfect either. You don't often get to see relationship struggles in books once the characters are together. But they were still learning to deal with each other. Patrick especially had a hard time remembering and understanding that he's not alone anymore, so he doesn't have to do everything alone, and also that his actions now affect Jono as well as himself.
Actually, I just like how nothing was perfect or too easy. The world in this book is realistically harsh. I wouldn't call the books dark, but there are murders and fights, and the author doesn't prettify or romanticize those things, and this one especially had the characters going through some tough stuff that really made me feel for them. Even the little things, like how Marek gets bad headaches every time the gods use his body, add to the harsh realism.
But there are sweet things too, like the relationship between the men, the friendships that are like family, the way Jono is so protective of his pack and those he cares about and even random werecreatures he's never met. There was also a new character brought into this one, and I loved how protective both Jono and Patrick were of the teen.
Overall, another book with lovable characters and a gripping plot that easily kept my attention throughout and that I seriously enjoyed!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in Hailey Turner's Soulbound series. Anyone who likes m/m urban fantasy, magic and supernatural creatures, lovable characters, and sweet romantic and friends/family-like relationships.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
This was another great, enjoyable, well-written urban fantasy book! And this one even had more intensity and emotion than the first.
The characterization was great again. I love that the characters are not perfect (e.g. Patrick's smoking and drinking and the way he keeps his thoughts and emotions and info close to the vest, Jono's temper when dealing with people he doesn't like) but are still so likeable.
Side note: Lucien and Carmen are absolutely terrible, and I want a book about them. Total power couple.
I liked that Patrick and Jono's relationship clearly had genuine care and devotion (I have such a weakness for those scenes when a character helps their unwell partner wash in the shower while their own fully clothed body gets soaking wet), but it wasn't perfect either. You don't often get to see relationship struggles in books once the characters are together. But they were still learning to deal with each other. Patrick especially had a hard time remembering and understanding that he's not alone anymore, so he doesn't have to do everything alone, and also that his actions now affect Jono as well as himself.
Actually, I just like how nothing was perfect or too easy. The world in this book is realistically harsh. I wouldn't call the books dark, but there are murders and fights, and the author doesn't prettify or romanticize those things, and this one especially had the characters going through some tough stuff that really made me feel for them. Even the little things, like how Marek gets bad headaches every time the gods use his body, add to the harsh realism.
But there are sweet things too, like the relationship between the men, the friendships that are like family, the way Jono is so protective of his pack and those he cares about and even random werecreatures he's never met. There was also a new character brought into this one, and I loved how protective both Jono and Patrick were of the teen.
Overall, another book with lovable characters and a gripping plot that easily kept my attention throughout and that I seriously enjoyed!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in Hailey Turner's Soulbound series. Anyone who likes m/m urban fantasy, magic and supernatural creatures, lovable characters, and sweet romantic and friends/family-like relationships.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
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