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Cassandra Palmer #9
Brave the Tempest
Cassie Palmer, chief seer of the supernatural world, faces her biggest challenge yet — her own allies! Everything’s on the line in the latest thrilling entry in the New York Times best-selling urban fantasy series.
Cassie Palmer has been chief seer of the supernatural world for a little over four months. In that time, she’s battled two gods, fallen in love with two men, and confronted the two sides of her own nature, both god and human. So it’s not surprising that she currently finds herself facing two adversaries, although they have a single purpose: to wipe out the supernatural community’s newest fighting force, leaving it vulnerable to enemies in this world and beyond.
To prevent catastrophe, the vamps, mages, and demons will have to do the one thing they’ve never managed before and come together as allies. Cassie has the difficult task of keeping the uneasy coalition intact, and of persuading her own two opposing forces, a powerful mage with a secret and a master vampire with a growing obsession, to fight at her side. She just hopes they can do it without tearing each other apart.
(Length: 20 hours, 17 minutes)
Audible Audio
First published July 30, 2019
285 people are currently reading
3010 people want to read
About the author
Karen Chance
62 books5,243 followersKaren Chance is the author of two New York Times bestselling series, plus a number of novellas and short stories, all set in the Cassandra Palmer universe. A full-time writer since 2008, she was previously a university history teacher, which comes in handy when writing the time-travel aspect of Cassie’s crazy adventures. She loves Las Vegas, the main setting for her novels, but currently lives in Florida near her family home. Visit her website or connect with her on Facebook here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews
June 20, 2019
This book wasn’t exactly a long time coming but there has been a lot building up to it since the beginning and it hit the mark just perfectly! It’s the perfect book for dedicated fans of the series. For those of us who have been rooting for Cassie and dying to see her coming into her power and strength and owning her new position of authority.
And fans of this guy ^^^ are in for a real treat 😍 😍 😍
Format: ebook
Ownership: Own (eARC from NetGalley)
Tags: Overarching Story-line, Fast-Paced, Humorous
Themes: Love Triangle, Slow Burn Romance
Read more reviews and other bookish content on my blog https://elainehowlin.com
August 2, 2019
5 "Of course I love you, you complete idiot" stars.
Karen finally got her groove back. After a couple of lackluster entries, KC is back with what is officially my favorite book in this series.
I am ruined for all other book boyfriends.
Now, despite the 5 yummy stars, BtT isn't perfect. It still suffers from a lot of long windedness, as all Karen's books tend to do, but for the most part, most of it felt necessary.
There was resolution with Mircea, and despite the fact that I am VERY biased about who I think Cassie should be with (more on that in a sec 😍)
Cassie is finally coming into her own. Karen did a great job with this. While Cassie has some very powerful allies, as well as big strapping men willing to throw themselves in front of danger for her, she has to learn to trust herself and her power. And she's getting there.
Now into the really important stuff. If you're a fan of a certain character in this series, you will not be disappointed. After Cassie dropped the "I love you" bomb on Pritkin in the last book, I half expected her to spend BtT avoiding her feelings (as usual). But to my complete shock, she was candid from the very beginning.
Fair warning: Pritkin doesn't actually show up until nearly 200 pages in, which is TOO DAMN LONG, but once he does, it's just wonderful.
Apparently, he'd taken off shortly after the events of the last book, to do work stuff. (And shows up briefly in a Dory book, which might get me to actually read a Dory book). At any rate, it isn't really explained why he felt the need to take off, though I imagine he had some stuff to work through, made evident by the fact that he's a tad different in this book, relating to what he is and what he and Cassie did in the previous installment. Cassie is understandably frustrated.. they obviously have a lot of personal stuff to work through.
Fortunately, Karen left them in a pretty good place, moving forward in their relationship. John still has a lot of personal demons (ha) to work through, but I'm hoping we'll see more of that in the next book.
Miscellaneous thoughts (may be spoilery):
• Karen Chance writes love scenes like no body else. Again I'm biased because I'm in love with Pritkin, but still.. even a half a paragraph scene of him and Cassie kissing chastely in the snow is scorching hot.
• Marco with the acolyte girls is everything. I love him.
• Cassie and Dory having a civil conversation and almost acting like girlfriends. I dig it. If Cassie's ex wasn't Dory's father, they could share man drama. 😂
• Cassie's internal monologue where she refers to Pritkin as her boyfriend and then him saying he hates that term. CALLED IT. Besides, I don't think boyfriend is a strong enough term at this point.
•
Karen finally got her groove back. After a couple of lackluster entries, KC is back with what is officially my favorite book in this series.
I am ruined for all other book boyfriends.
Now, despite the 5 yummy stars, BtT isn't perfect. It still suffers from a lot of long windedness, as all Karen's books tend to do, but for the most part, most of it felt necessary.
There was resolution with Mircea, and despite the fact that I am VERY biased about who I think Cassie should be with (more on that in a sec 😍)
Cassie is finally coming into her own. Karen did a great job with this. While Cassie has some very powerful allies, as well as big strapping men willing to throw themselves in front of danger for her, she has to learn to trust herself and her power. And she's getting there.
Now into the really important stuff. If you're a fan of a certain character in this series, you will not be disappointed. After Cassie dropped the "I love you" bomb on Pritkin in the last book, I half expected her to spend BtT avoiding her feelings (as usual). But to my complete shock, she was candid from the very beginning.
Fair warning: Pritkin doesn't actually show up until nearly 200 pages in, which is TOO DAMN LONG, but once he does, it's just wonderful.
Apparently, he'd taken off shortly after the events of the last book, to do work stuff. (And shows up briefly in a Dory book, which might get me to actually read a Dory book). At any rate, it isn't really explained why he felt the need to take off, though I imagine he had some stuff to work through, made evident by the fact that he's a tad different in this book, relating to what he is and what he and Cassie did in the previous installment. Cassie is understandably frustrated.. they obviously have a lot of personal stuff to work through.
Fortunately, Karen left them in a pretty good place, moving forward in their relationship. John still has a lot of personal demons (ha) to work through, but I'm hoping we'll see more of that in the next book.
Miscellaneous thoughts (may be spoilery):
• Karen Chance writes love scenes like no body else. Again I'm biased because I'm in love with Pritkin, but still.. even a half a paragraph scene of him and Cassie kissing chastely in the snow is scorching hot.
• Marco with the acolyte girls is everything. I love him.
• Cassie and Dory having a civil conversation and almost acting like girlfriends. I dig it. If Cassie's ex wasn't Dory's father, they could share man drama. 😂
• Cassie's internal monologue where she refers to Pritkin as her boyfriend and then him saying he hates that term. CALLED IT. Besides, I don't think boyfriend is a strong enough term at this point.
•
July 31, 2019
Honestly I just hope mircea doesn't get his way for once . I'mma still upset when he got exposed and there's a reason it pirtkin all the way!!!!
Update 7/29/19
I read it and am in my feels .it’s a bit bittersweet at the end Cassie obviously choose pirtkin .(victory dance) but she’s gonna help mircea see his wife . Who Cassie is aware he’s still in love with . (Now I can just say we all know some way Cassie will bring her to the present because mircea will not sit back ) I just really wish mircea sees what’s he’s missing like your ex helping you get back with your wife is hard tbh. But I guess that’s why we love the series because we’re all invested lol
Update 7/29/19
I read it and am in my feels .it’s a bit bittersweet at the end Cassie obviously choose pirtkin .(victory dance) but she’s gonna help mircea see his wife . Who Cassie is aware he’s still in love with . (Now I can just say we all know some way Cassie will bring her to the present because mircea will not sit back ) I just really wish mircea sees what’s he’s missing like your ex helping you get back with your wife is hard tbh. But I guess that’s why we love the series because we’re all invested lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2019
I really have no idea how to review this.
Anyone reading my updates would see that 80% of this book fraustrated the hell out of me.
I've been following this series for 10 years, which is proved my the dusty paperbacks sat on my book shelves from before I discovered the Kindle app of my phone 6 years ago. Karen Chance has created an incredibly complex and impressive world. She has a gift for writing characters that you absolutely love, both main and side.
However, more and more frequently her book just feel like a chaotic mess.
The plot lurches like a drunken toddler from one mishap to the next. We get massively confusing info dumps of various factions of supernatural races, and these info dumps fly about just as chaotically. There were so many times I just skim read through these parts because I just wanted to get to some damned development, either of the plot or characters. Sadly, both were mostly missing here.
There wasn't really a plot. Yes, the overarching plot of the series moved slightly, in that a few more pieces are in place for the big war in faerie with the Black Circle and Jonathan. But that was really a tiny amount of the book and whilst all of the threads sort of came together at the end, it was incredibly rushed and mostly glossed over.
I'll be honest though, my biggest issue is the tiny amount of page time devoted to character and relationship development. I'm going to focus on Cassie and Pritkin, because they are really the only reason I didn't give up on these books ages ago, but it could be said for Cassie and pretty much every character in the book. There is never any downtime in these books for the characters to talk and for things to be resolved. Sure, very occasionally these conversations start, but they are always, ALWAYS interrupted by some new random drama. It is SO fraustrating. I don't read books to want to throw my virtual copy across the room and stomp on it for good measure. It just seems completely and utterly unnecessary.
Cassie spent 3 books tracking Pritkin down. It was soooooo dragged out, as has their whole relationship and the god awful love triangle. To not have Pritkin show up for over 170 pages did not get me off to a good start with this book, only for him to be there for about 50 pages and then be gone for over another 100. Yes, there are two really nice, albeit brief, scenes with the two of them that I absolutely loved, and there were some sweet moments interspersed in the usual chaos, but this definitely did not feel like the motherload of a payoff I was hoping for, considering the bloody build up.
So, all in all, I am fraustrated and disappointed in this book. I still absolutely adore Cassie and Pritkin. They are a amazing togethet and their relationship is just wonderful. I love Cassie's bonds with her court and how they're forming and I continue to love her vampire bodyguards. But we just need more of that sort of stuff. This lurching, crazy action has just got so, so old to me.
I will keep reading for these characters, to get my Cassie and Pritkin fix, but I just wish these books were different.
3 stars feels fair, based on my feelings while reading it. For the Cassie and Pritkin scenes alone, along with my love of so many of the other characters, this would be 10 stars if I could give it. For mostly everything else it would be 1 or 2.
Anyone reading my updates would see that 80% of this book fraustrated the hell out of me.
I've been following this series for 10 years, which is proved my the dusty paperbacks sat on my book shelves from before I discovered the Kindle app of my phone 6 years ago. Karen Chance has created an incredibly complex and impressive world. She has a gift for writing characters that you absolutely love, both main and side.
However, more and more frequently her book just feel like a chaotic mess.
The plot lurches like a drunken toddler from one mishap to the next. We get massively confusing info dumps of various factions of supernatural races, and these info dumps fly about just as chaotically. There were so many times I just skim read through these parts because I just wanted to get to some damned development, either of the plot or characters. Sadly, both were mostly missing here.
There wasn't really a plot. Yes, the overarching plot of the series moved slightly, in that a few more pieces are in place for the big war in faerie with the Black Circle and Jonathan. But that was really a tiny amount of the book and whilst all of the threads sort of came together at the end, it was incredibly rushed and mostly glossed over.
I'll be honest though, my biggest issue is the tiny amount of page time devoted to character and relationship development. I'm going to focus on Cassie and Pritkin, because they are really the only reason I didn't give up on these books ages ago, but it could be said for Cassie and pretty much every character in the book. There is never any downtime in these books for the characters to talk and for things to be resolved. Sure, very occasionally these conversations start, but they are always, ALWAYS interrupted by some new random drama. It is SO fraustrating. I don't read books to want to throw my virtual copy across the room and stomp on it for good measure. It just seems completely and utterly unnecessary.
Cassie spent 3 books tracking Pritkin down. It was soooooo dragged out, as has their whole relationship and the god awful love triangle. To not have Pritkin show up for over 170 pages did not get me off to a good start with this book, only for him to be there for about 50 pages and then be gone for over another 100. Yes, there are two really nice, albeit brief, scenes with the two of them that I absolutely loved, and there were some sweet moments interspersed in the usual chaos, but this definitely did not feel like the motherload of a payoff I was hoping for, considering the bloody build up.
So, all in all, I am fraustrated and disappointed in this book. I still absolutely adore Cassie and Pritkin. They are a amazing togethet and their relationship is just wonderful. I love Cassie's bonds with her court and how they're forming and I continue to love her vampire bodyguards. But we just need more of that sort of stuff. This lurching, crazy action has just got so, so old to me.
I will keep reading for these characters, to get my Cassie and Pritkin fix, but I just wish these books were different.
3 stars feels fair, based on my feelings while reading it. For the Cassie and Pritkin scenes alone, along with my love of so many of the other characters, this would be 10 stars if I could give it. For mostly everything else it would be 1 or 2.
October 30, 2025
Cassie Palmer is the Pythia, the supernatural world’s top seer. Even though she holds the title, none of the powers that be really have told her much about her position. It seems they like keeping her in the dark so they can hold the power at each of their own whims… Big mistake on their parts, because Cassie isn’t going to take their hand out sitting down. She finally takes the reins for her own powers and realizes the machinations each faction has been using to hold her back. Now the vampires, mages and demons will have to work together to face their newest foes and it is up Cassie to bring them all together without them destroying each other before they can save their worlds.
Chance writes a perfect addition to the Cassie Palmer series! The balance of humor, drama, action and world building flat out works! This was one of those reads that I read from start to finish and then started all over again because yes, there is that much going on.
There is no denying, I love the Karen Chance’s writing and I loved Brave the Tempest. I highly recommend this book as a must read to any urban fantasy connoisseur.
I received this ARC copy of Brave the Tempest from Penguin - Random House and Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. Brave the Tempest is set for publication July 30, 2019.
My Rating: 5 stars FAVORITE
Chance writes a perfect addition to the Cassie Palmer series! The balance of humor, drama, action and world building flat out works! This was one of those reads that I read from start to finish and then started all over again because yes, there is that much going on.
There is no denying, I love the Karen Chance’s writing and I loved Brave the Tempest. I highly recommend this book as a must read to any urban fantasy connoisseur.
I received this ARC copy of Brave the Tempest from Penguin - Random House and Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. Brave the Tempest is set for publication July 30, 2019.
My Rating: 5 stars FAVORITE
August 19, 2019
I won this novel in a goodreads drawing.
A supernatural woman with two lovers is vexed when the two of them go against one another in order to rule the underworld.
Truthfully, seems more like it should be a YA novel, and it's probably 100 pages too long.
A supernatural woman with two lovers is vexed when the two of them go against one another in order to rule the underworld.
Truthfully, seems more like it should be a YA novel, and it's probably 100 pages too long.
July 17, 2019
I received a copy of Brave the Tempest in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Brave the Tempest is the latest installment in the Cassie Palmer series, and man could I not be happier to have a copy of this book in my hands! I know some fans have only been reading one series or the other (Cassie or Dory), but there is some backstory that is very relevant in Dory’s series (and short stories) that you probably don’t want to miss out on! Plus they’re a blast, so there’s that.
This novel continues the battle that Cassie and her allies (not quite the accurate term, all things considered, but we’re going with it) have been prepping for and dealing with for years. And yes, it lived up to all of my hopes and expectations.
Cassie has had to put up with a lot over the past few months (though it’s hard to believe what has been years for us has only been months for her), and Brave the Tempest didn’t give her any breaks. She’s still learning how to be a Pythia, on top of dealing with multiple senates and courts, plus prepping for a battle to end all battles. One that they’ll hopefully win. And somehow Cassie has to get all of these different factions to work together in order to have any chance of having everybody survive it all.
The Cassie Palmer series (and the Dory series by extension) has been one of my favorite series for a long time now. And while we may be more than a dozen books in now, I still can’t get enough! So I may be just a tiny bit biased in this review. But only as biased as any fan would be.
Brave the Tempest had a lot of expectations riding on it, and yet it managed to meet all of them. I enjoyed every minute of this read, all of the lows and all of the highs. And everything in between.
This novel is a whopping 544 pages, but honestly? It blew by in no time. This series has always been an eventful one – with Cassie having to deal with problems left and right. And Brave the Tempest is no exception to that rule.
There was just SO much that happened here, I’m not even sure where to begin. Cassie was fantastic, as always. I adore her drive and determination. And honestly, I love that nothing Cassie does is ever easy – you’re always fully aware of the cost and ramifications of her actions.
The last few novels in this series have really upped the ante on the emotional level. Cassie has always had to deal with a lot – but suddenly the whole mess felt a lot more personal. And I’m happy to say that Brave the Tempest continued this trend. Though naturally the how and why has altered, thanks to the conclusion of Ride the Storm.
And boy, was this novel an emotional roller coaster. In a good way, I promise. Every battle and conflict that Cassie and her allies have been prepping for are looming on the horizon. And yet more and more keeps creeping up to complicate the matter. I don’t envy anyone in this situation.
The secondary characters in this novel are numerous. As they would have to be, given how many people Cassie has to work with. Yet, I feel like many of them had moments in this novel. Some more than others, naturally. But all of the important players were there. More than that though, it seemed like they’ve all had character growth along the way.
The personal moments in this novel were deeply moving. And I don’t just mean the romantic sort of personal moments. There were several heart to heart moments here, and I feel like they have been a long time coming. I’m happy that Karen Chance made time for them here. I think it was time.
I’ve said it before, but I’m saying it again here. I adore the political shenanigans in this series. The world is just so incredibly complex, with factions and senates all working towards their own goals and frequently getting in each other’s way. It’s so rich and intense. And it may sound odd to say this (being that I’m talking about fantasy creatures here) but it makes it all more believable. Because I don’t believe for a minute that all of these consuls and covens would work flawlessly together for fun.
Some of the politics in this novel quite literally had me squealing. There’s nothing I love more than a good political throwdown. Especially in the supernatural world. And I got exactly what I wanted here. And then some! I’ll skip the details, because they’re so much better first hand. But I will say that Brave the Tempest officially has one of my favorite scenes.
As for the resolution in Brave the Tempest? It’s something I think we’ve been needing for a while now. I know it’s something Cassie has needed. And yes, my statement there is a layered one, because I’m referring to several things that happened. But in my defense, a lot happened at once.
I’m a bit sad that the book is over – but on the bright side, I won’t have to wait long for the next novel! Shatter the Earth (Cassandra Palmer #10) is scheduled for a December release. And yes, I do mean of this year! I’m so excited!
Brave the Tempest is the latest installment in the Cassie Palmer series, and man could I not be happier to have a copy of this book in my hands! I know some fans have only been reading one series or the other (Cassie or Dory), but there is some backstory that is very relevant in Dory’s series (and short stories) that you probably don’t want to miss out on! Plus they’re a blast, so there’s that.
This novel continues the battle that Cassie and her allies (not quite the accurate term, all things considered, but we’re going with it) have been prepping for and dealing with for years. And yes, it lived up to all of my hopes and expectations.
Cassie has had to put up with a lot over the past few months (though it’s hard to believe what has been years for us has only been months for her), and Brave the Tempest didn’t give her any breaks. She’s still learning how to be a Pythia, on top of dealing with multiple senates and courts, plus prepping for a battle to end all battles. One that they’ll hopefully win. And somehow Cassie has to get all of these different factions to work together in order to have any chance of having everybody survive it all.
The Cassie Palmer series (and the Dory series by extension) has been one of my favorite series for a long time now. And while we may be more than a dozen books in now, I still can’t get enough! So I may be just a tiny bit biased in this review. But only as biased as any fan would be.
Brave the Tempest had a lot of expectations riding on it, and yet it managed to meet all of them. I enjoyed every minute of this read, all of the lows and all of the highs. And everything in between.
This novel is a whopping 544 pages, but honestly? It blew by in no time. This series has always been an eventful one – with Cassie having to deal with problems left and right. And Brave the Tempest is no exception to that rule.
There was just SO much that happened here, I’m not even sure where to begin. Cassie was fantastic, as always. I adore her drive and determination. And honestly, I love that nothing Cassie does is ever easy – you’re always fully aware of the cost and ramifications of her actions.
The last few novels in this series have really upped the ante on the emotional level. Cassie has always had to deal with a lot – but suddenly the whole mess felt a lot more personal. And I’m happy to say that Brave the Tempest continued this trend. Though naturally the how and why has altered, thanks to the conclusion of Ride the Storm.
And boy, was this novel an emotional roller coaster. In a good way, I promise. Every battle and conflict that Cassie and her allies have been prepping for are looming on the horizon. And yet more and more keeps creeping up to complicate the matter. I don’t envy anyone in this situation.
The secondary characters in this novel are numerous. As they would have to be, given how many people Cassie has to work with. Yet, I feel like many of them had moments in this novel. Some more than others, naturally. But all of the important players were there. More than that though, it seemed like they’ve all had character growth along the way.
The personal moments in this novel were deeply moving. And I don’t just mean the romantic sort of personal moments. There were several heart to heart moments here, and I feel like they have been a long time coming. I’m happy that Karen Chance made time for them here. I think it was time.
I’ve said it before, but I’m saying it again here. I adore the political shenanigans in this series. The world is just so incredibly complex, with factions and senates all working towards their own goals and frequently getting in each other’s way. It’s so rich and intense. And it may sound odd to say this (being that I’m talking about fantasy creatures here) but it makes it all more believable. Because I don’t believe for a minute that all of these consuls and covens would work flawlessly together for fun.
Some of the politics in this novel quite literally had me squealing. There’s nothing I love more than a good political throwdown. Especially in the supernatural world. And I got exactly what I wanted here. And then some! I’ll skip the details, because they’re so much better first hand. But I will say that Brave the Tempest officially has one of my favorite scenes.
As for the resolution in Brave the Tempest? It’s something I think we’ve been needing for a while now. I know it’s something Cassie has needed. And yes, my statement there is a layered one, because I’m referring to several things that happened. But in my defense, a lot happened at once.
I’m a bit sad that the book is over – but on the bright side, I won’t have to wait long for the next novel! Shatter the Earth (Cassandra Palmer #10) is scheduled for a December release. And yes, I do mean of this year! I’m so excited!
July 29, 2019
Updated Release Date: July 30, 2019
I received this as an advanced reader's copy via Netgalley courtesy of Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
I'm going to start by saying a busy start to our summer holiday's made me draw out reading this book to 5 days when I could have gobbled it up in a single night if I had the time! Although that wasn't a bad thing because it allowed me to savour it a bit more than I normally could have reading all at once.
The Cassandra Palmer series is definitely one of my favourites because of how original it is. I have read a few other series that focus on time travel back and forth, but I tend to find them confusing because the story lines never seem to flow properly for me. Miss Chance does an amazing job of keeping the storyline flowing perfect regardless of what timeline Cassy finds herself in, and I love that about this series!
If you haven't read the previous books in the series, Miss Chance does do an excellent job of updating you on past escapades that have led up to the current ones in this book, so it would be a good stand alone read if you absolutely must; however, the series in it's entirety is absolutely fantastic, and it would be an excellent use of time to read the series beginning to current, if you haven't already - it will not disappoint.
Brave The Tempest had a lot to take in, as it ties up a few ends and opens a few others with all the overlapping story arcs which helps to keep the reader engaged and interested. I feel like this instalment in the series is extra special because we see Cassy standing up for herself more and taking the reins on the Pythia power, her political position as Pythia, and her personal life more than she ever has in the past. She is stepping up to the plate in a assertive way that shows just how strong a woman she actually is. We also get a peak into how the Pythia courts of old worked and how the acolytes were trained which is lots of fun.
Overall, Brave The Tempest is a very fun book with humour, romance, action, adventure, drama, and a little bit of gore. It's a very well-rounded read that fans of many genres will enjoy.
I received this as an advanced reader's copy via Netgalley courtesy of Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
I'm going to start by saying a busy start to our summer holiday's made me draw out reading this book to 5 days when I could have gobbled it up in a single night if I had the time! Although that wasn't a bad thing because it allowed me to savour it a bit more than I normally could have reading all at once.
The Cassandra Palmer series is definitely one of my favourites because of how original it is. I have read a few other series that focus on time travel back and forth, but I tend to find them confusing because the story lines never seem to flow properly for me. Miss Chance does an amazing job of keeping the storyline flowing perfect regardless of what timeline Cassy finds herself in, and I love that about this series!
If you haven't read the previous books in the series, Miss Chance does do an excellent job of updating you on past escapades that have led up to the current ones in this book, so it would be a good stand alone read if you absolutely must; however, the series in it's entirety is absolutely fantastic, and it would be an excellent use of time to read the series beginning to current, if you haven't already - it will not disappoint.
Brave The Tempest had a lot to take in, as it ties up a few ends and opens a few others with all the overlapping story arcs which helps to keep the reader engaged and interested. I feel like this instalment in the series is extra special because we see Cassy standing up for herself more and taking the reins on the Pythia power, her political position as Pythia, and her personal life more than she ever has in the past. She is stepping up to the plate in a assertive way that shows just how strong a woman she actually is. We also get a peak into how the Pythia courts of old worked and how the acolytes were trained which is lots of fun.
Overall, Brave The Tempest is a very fun book with humour, romance, action, adventure, drama, and a little bit of gore. It's a very well-rounded read that fans of many genres will enjoy.
August 11, 2019
Can't a gal catch a break? Or, you know, get a time out for a breather? This fast-paced, original, colorful and oh-so action-packed Urban Fantasy series just keeps up a hammering plot with a heroine at the core of matters who is faking it until she makes it even as she slowly comes into her own. I've had a blast with each book in this series and this one was no exception.
Brave the Tempest is book nine in the Cassandra Palmer series and would probably be utterly crazy reading if taken out of order.
The last few books were all about getting John Pritkin, a powerful War Mage (aka Merlin), back while defeating a god and fighting a war with faery and the Dark Circle to keep the gods from returning. Cassie, the new Pythia, feels she has been through so much and done so much and yet more keeps coming at her. She has separated herself from Mircea and the Vampires after learning the whole true about why they courted her, she's held off the Silver Circle who want to control her and her power, she's showed the demons what she can do, and she's made the powerful enemies of Dark Circle Mages and fey sit up and take notice.
But, for all that, she feels she, her Pythia Court, and her love life are one hot mess. And, she wouldn't be wrong. Cassie is confronted by several friends and allies that force her to stop long enough to consider what makes her tick, change what is necessary, and consider what she really wants and go for it.
It is make or break time for Cassie and she has to dig deep and learn some important lessons even while surviving long enough to help save the world.
As I said, the chase down Pritkin through history plot is complete and now Cassie is back to figuring out how to get all the allies working together and taking her seriously as Pythia. She has been ramshackle for so long, but wants to be organized and learn more about her power and magic. Everyone has ideas for how she should use it and how she should do her court. There is a lot more soul-searching in this one. At times, it felt like Cassie got a bit whiny as she took the pointed remarks about how she was doing stuff (or, in some cases, in denial and avoiding stuff). But, I'm pretty sure most of us would get whiny if we had her life so I'll cut her some slack.
I loved that the love triangle was finally dealt with and Cassie is firmly with Pritkin. I loved that Cassie had some good 'come to Jesus' moments that will set some stuff straight including how she thought and felt about Dory/Dorina. (Now that was a fab encounter that I have been anticipating forever) Some old enemies that were still out there and trouble were front and center once again and I enjoyed how that all panned out so that plot threads that confused me or I felt needed more attention were getting them. And, for those who wanted more attention given to the romance? You got it.
It was non-stop action and I was on board since it was action with a purpose. I can feel the story drawing closer to the big confrontation finale and I'm getting excited again about that.
I was only able to pick up one other from the Cassie Palmer World that was on audio, but I loved my first time with narrator, Jorjeana Marie. She captured the tone, pace, and voices of the characters so well. This was my first time hearing her voice Cassie (the other story was a Dory one), but I quickly adjusted from the voice in my head of her to Jorjeana Marie's voice and her voice for other characters. I can't get over how great she does with the blow by blow aspect of the action scenes so I didn't get lost. Definitely worth picking up more of her work.
All in all, this was a solid entry in the series and I flew through it even if it was a longer one. Urban Fantasy fans who enjoy the usual paranormal suspects and some creature ones as well not to mention incredible magical settings and situations should give this series a go.
My thanks to Berkley via Net Galley for the opportunity to read this one in exchange for an honest review.
COYER Summer Scavenger Hunt Clue- book from the 2019 Most Anticipated Reads list on GR
Brave the Tempest is book nine in the Cassandra Palmer series and would probably be utterly crazy reading if taken out of order.
The last few books were all about getting John Pritkin, a powerful War Mage (aka Merlin), back while defeating a god and fighting a war with faery and the Dark Circle to keep the gods from returning. Cassie, the new Pythia, feels she has been through so much and done so much and yet more keeps coming at her. She has separated herself from Mircea and the Vampires after learning the whole true about why they courted her, she's held off the Silver Circle who want to control her and her power, she's showed the demons what she can do, and she's made the powerful enemies of Dark Circle Mages and fey sit up and take notice.
But, for all that, she feels she, her Pythia Court, and her love life are one hot mess. And, she wouldn't be wrong. Cassie is confronted by several friends and allies that force her to stop long enough to consider what makes her tick, change what is necessary, and consider what she really wants and go for it.
It is make or break time for Cassie and she has to dig deep and learn some important lessons even while surviving long enough to help save the world.
As I said, the chase down Pritkin through history plot is complete and now Cassie is back to figuring out how to get all the allies working together and taking her seriously as Pythia. She has been ramshackle for so long, but wants to be organized and learn more about her power and magic. Everyone has ideas for how she should use it and how she should do her court. There is a lot more soul-searching in this one. At times, it felt like Cassie got a bit whiny as she took the pointed remarks about how she was doing stuff (or, in some cases, in denial and avoiding stuff). But, I'm pretty sure most of us would get whiny if we had her life so I'll cut her some slack.
I loved that the love triangle was finally dealt with and Cassie is firmly with Pritkin. I loved that Cassie had some good 'come to Jesus' moments that will set some stuff straight including how she thought and felt about Dory/Dorina. (Now that was a fab encounter that I have been anticipating forever) Some old enemies that were still out there and trouble were front and center once again and I enjoyed how that all panned out so that plot threads that confused me or I felt needed more attention were getting them. And, for those who wanted more attention given to the romance? You got it.
It was non-stop action and I was on board since it was action with a purpose. I can feel the story drawing closer to the big confrontation finale and I'm getting excited again about that.
I was only able to pick up one other from the Cassie Palmer World that was on audio, but I loved my first time with narrator, Jorjeana Marie. She captured the tone, pace, and voices of the characters so well. This was my first time hearing her voice Cassie (the other story was a Dory one), but I quickly adjusted from the voice in my head of her to Jorjeana Marie's voice and her voice for other characters. I can't get over how great she does with the blow by blow aspect of the action scenes so I didn't get lost. Definitely worth picking up more of her work.
All in all, this was a solid entry in the series and I flew through it even if it was a longer one. Urban Fantasy fans who enjoy the usual paranormal suspects and some creature ones as well not to mention incredible magical settings and situations should give this series a go.
My thanks to Berkley via Net Galley for the opportunity to read this one in exchange for an honest review.
COYER Summer Scavenger Hunt Clue- book from the 2019 Most Anticipated Reads list on GR
July 24, 2019
3.5 stars
Now that Cassie isn't chasing Pritkin through time she's finally figuring out how to be a pythia. It's confusing since almost everyone else seems to know something about it she doesn't. Almost everyone tries to use her position for their own political gain.
It took a long time for the story to really get going, and it took even longer for Pritkin to get some page time, which was well worth the wait. Cassie was coming into her own more both professionally and personally. I loved it that she was standing up for herself more.
At times I did have a hard time following things because it was all over the place. Cassie can teleport and time travel, so settings can unexpectedly change. Even when in one place, one conversation would get interrupted by another and another. I know this series tends to be like that, but for whatever reason I found it particularly distracting this time.
Cassie and Mircea did talk. I was satisfied with the way their conversation went. It's great that Cassie can see him for the political mastermind he is instead of assuming he always has her best interests at heart.
I loved just about every scene with Pritkin. He and Cassie are very different but they complement each other well. I'm not going to say anymore than that. You'll have to read it to find out what happens with them.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this in exchange for an honest review!
Now that Cassie isn't chasing Pritkin through time she's finally figuring out how to be a pythia. It's confusing since almost everyone else seems to know something about it she doesn't. Almost everyone tries to use her position for their own political gain.
It took a long time for the story to really get going, and it took even longer for Pritkin to get some page time, which was well worth the wait. Cassie was coming into her own more both professionally and personally. I loved it that she was standing up for herself more.
At times I did have a hard time following things because it was all over the place. Cassie can teleport and time travel, so settings can unexpectedly change. Even when in one place, one conversation would get interrupted by another and another. I know this series tends to be like that, but for whatever reason I found it particularly distracting this time.
Cassie and Mircea did talk. I was satisfied with the way their conversation went. It's great that Cassie can see him for the political mastermind he is instead of assuming he always has her best interests at heart.
I loved just about every scene with Pritkin. He and Cassie are very different but they complement each other well. I'm not going to say anymore than that. You'll have to read it to find out what happens with them.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this in exchange for an honest review!
November 3, 2025
In my opinion this series should have ended on book 8, when Cassie rescued Pritkin and finally told him she loved him and they defeated Apollo. After here the series just goes downhill, it’s like eating a cookie and the sugar has been swapped with salt, you’re left feeling disappointed with a bad taste in your mouth that you can’t get rid of.
Books 1-8 pure brilliance, after that pure slop.
Books 1-8 pure brilliance, after that pure slop.
March 18, 2019
I love this series so so so much but I swear to all the gods that is or was, if it takes all 544 pages of this book for Pritkin & Cassie to become a couple or Mircea & Cassie are still somehow a thing after all his bullshit I’m going to blow a gasket
Want to read
January 11, 2021I need to read this one soon👏
Can’t wait to get Pritkin and Mircea BACK IN MY LIFE🧡
Can’t wait to get Pritkin and Mircea BACK IN MY LIFE🧡
April 21, 2025
French & English reviews (very very long xD)
OMG un tome ... En fait, je ne sais pas trop quoi en penser >< Je suis tellement partagée !! J'ai adoré mais à certains moments aussi, j'ai eu envie de me taper la tête sur un mur ...
Ce que j'ai adoré :
- CASSIE CHOISIT ENFIN (et c'est celui que je voulais =D) donc on a eu enfin le droit à des vraies scènes de sexe mais aussi des scènes mignonnes =D J'espère qu'ils auront plus de moments ensemble à l'avenir <3
- la découverte du monde des sorcières que j'ai adoré !! J'espère les revoir plus à l'avenir x) (et j'adorais avoir des nouvelles de leur point de vue ou carrément sur les guerres avec les mages !!)
- voir Louis-Cesare et Dorina du point de vue de Cassie (tellement mignons <3)
- l'avancement de la guerre qui est passionnant avec tous les jeux de pouvoir et les intrigues politiques (voir notamment les autres consuls en action =D)
- revoir d'anciens personnages avec d'autres points de vue (Caedmon <3 J'adorais avoir une nouvelle sur lui ... Et le voir tomber amoureux =D) ou les voir évoluer (Mircea est le changement le plus frappant je pense et le plus fascinant !! J'ai hâte de voir comment sa relation avec la consule va évoluer =D Et j'ai été très intriguée par l'attitude de Marlowe (tellement badass face au consul indien x)) et j'espère avoir d'autres nouvelles sur lui !!)
- voir la cour de Cassie devenir quelque chose de concret et surtout un lieu familial ! Il y a des sorcières, un ou deux mages, des vampires (Marco mais aussi Fred <3) et plein de petites filles =D
- le point de vue très bref de ... J'espère en apprendre plus à l'avenir =D
Ce qui m'a déçu :
- les scènes de sexe ... Autant les scènes qu'on a eu avec Mircea ou même avec Louis-Cesare étaient PFIOULALA, autant là ... J'ai été hyper déçu parce qu'il y a une tension de fou entre eux et que les préliminaires étaient géniaux mais le sexe en lui-même ne m'a fait absolument pas rêver ! Et Pritkin est censé être un incube !! Le problème je pense c'est qu'à chaque fois on se concentre plus sur l'échange de pouvoir et les pensées de Cassie qui analyse tout que l'acte physique en lui-même ...
- c'est un peu mon reproche habituel pour cette auteure mais trop de descriptions un peu en kaléidoscope et parfois je me perds (notamment quand il y a , j'avais une impression de trop et ça casse un peu l'action !) et de blablas de Cassie (on a parfois l'impression qu'elle nous résume tout ce qui s'est passé avant ... Sauf que si on lit le neuvième tome, c'est qu'on a déjà lu les précédents !)
- je m'attendais tellement à une histoire tournant autour du et en fait pas du tout !! Et j'ai trouvé Cassie ... Je ne sais pas, je pensais qu'elle allait être furieuse, se mettre en colère et que ça servirait de déclencheur pour qu'elle s'émancipe un peu plus !! Et en fait, elle continue les mêmes erreurs alors que dans le précédent tome j'avais vraiment pensé qu'elle avait évolué pour embrasser la badass en elle !!
- pas assez de Pritkin >< J'ai eu l'impression qu'il était toujours parti ailleurs !! Et Cassie qui se retrouve toute seule à tout gérer ...
- j'ai lu que je n'étais pas la seule à avoir été surprise mais on a 9 tomes et pourtant, il n'y a que quatre mois qui se sont écoulés ??!! (ça pourrait expliquer le fait que Cassie n'arrive toujours pas à assumer son nouveau statut ...)
Bref, c'est un livre que j'ai dévoré et adoré mais avec aussi ses défauts ... Malgré toutes mes critiques, Karen Chance reste une de mes auteures préférées parce que j'adore son univers et ses personnages =D
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OMG a book ... In fact, I don't know what to think about it >< I am so torn !! I loved it but sometimes, I wanted to bang my head on a wall ...
What I loved :
- CASSIE CHOSE FINALLY (and that's the one I wanted =D) so we finally had THE sex scenes but also cute scenes =D I hope they will have more moment together in the future <3
- the discovery of the world of witches that I loved !! I hope to see them again in the future x) (and I would love to read things or a short-story about them or just about the wars with the Silver Circle !)
- seeing Louis-Cesare and Dorina from Cassie's point of view (so cute <3)
- the progress of the war which is exciting with all the power games and political intrigues (seeing especially the other consuls in action =D)
- seeing old characters with other points of view (Caedmon <3 I would love to have a short-story about him ... And seeing him fall in love =D) or seeing them evolve (Mircea is the most striking change I think and the most fascinating !! I can't wait to see how his relationship with the consule will evolve =D And I was very intrigued by the attitude of Marlowe (so badass against the Indian consul x)) and I hope to have other short-story about him !!)
- seeing the court of Cassie becoming something concrete and especially a family place ! There are witches, one or two mages, vampires (Marco but also Fred <3) and lots of little girls =D
- POV ... I hope to learn more in the future about him =D
What disappointed me :
- The scenes of sex ... Much as the scenes we had with Mircea or even with Louis-Cesare were PFIOULALA, there ... I was super disappointed because there was a steamy tension between them and the preliminaries were great but the sex itself didn't make me dream ! And Pritkin is supposed to be an incubus !! The problem I think is that each time we focus more on the exchange of power and the thoughts of Cassie who analyzes everything that the physical act in itself ...
- it's a bit my usual reproach for this author but too many descriptions a little like a kaleidoscope and sometimes I get lost (especially when there is the , I had an impression of too much and it stops a little the action!) and Cassie's blahs (we sometimes have the impression that she summarizes everything that happened before ... Except that if we read the ninth book, it's because we already read the previous ones !)
- I was so expecting a story about and not at all ! And I found Cassie ... I don't know, I thought she was going to be furious, get angry and that it would serve as a trigger for her to emancipate a little more !! And in fact, she continues the same mistakes while in the previous book I really thought she had evolved to embrace her inner badass !
- not enough Pritkin >< I had the impression that he was always gone elsewhere !! And Cassie who finds herself alone to manage everything ...
- I read that I was not the only one to have been surprised but we have 9 books and yet, only four months have passed ?? !! (That could explain the fact that Cassie still can't assume her new status ...)
In short, it's a book that I devoured and loved but also with its faults ... Despite all my criticisms, Karen Chance remains one of my favorite authors because I love her universe and her characters =D
OMG un tome ... En fait, je ne sais pas trop quoi en penser >< Je suis tellement partagée !! J'ai adoré mais à certains moments aussi, j'ai eu envie de me taper la tête sur un mur ...
Ce que j'ai adoré :
- CASSIE CHOISIT ENFIN (et c'est celui que je voulais =D) donc on a eu enfin le droit à des vraies scènes de sexe mais aussi des scènes mignonnes =D J'espère qu'ils auront plus de moments ensemble à l'avenir <3
- la découverte du monde des sorcières que j'ai adoré !! J'espère les revoir plus à l'avenir x) (et j'adorais avoir des nouvelles de leur point de vue ou carrément sur les guerres avec les mages !!)
- voir Louis-Cesare et Dorina du point de vue de Cassie (tellement mignons <3)
- l'avancement de la guerre qui est passionnant avec tous les jeux de pouvoir et les intrigues politiques (voir notamment les autres consuls en action =D)
- revoir d'anciens personnages avec d'autres points de vue (Caedmon <3 J'adorais avoir une nouvelle sur lui ... Et le voir tomber amoureux =D) ou les voir évoluer (Mircea est le changement le plus frappant je pense et le plus fascinant !! J'ai hâte de voir comment sa relation avec la consule va évoluer =D Et j'ai été très intriguée par l'attitude de Marlowe (tellement badass face au consul indien x)) et j'espère avoir d'autres nouvelles sur lui !!)
- voir la cour de Cassie devenir quelque chose de concret et surtout un lieu familial ! Il y a des sorcières, un ou deux mages, des vampires (Marco mais aussi Fred <3) et plein de petites filles =D
- le point de vue très bref de ... J'espère en apprendre plus à l'avenir =D
Ce qui m'a déçu :
- les scènes de sexe ... Autant les scènes qu'on a eu avec Mircea ou même avec Louis-Cesare étaient PFIOULALA, autant là ... J'ai été hyper déçu parce qu'il y a une tension de fou entre eux et que les préliminaires étaient géniaux mais le sexe en lui-même ne m'a fait absolument pas rêver ! Et Pritkin est censé être un incube !! Le problème je pense c'est qu'à chaque fois on se concentre plus sur l'échange de pouvoir et les pensées de Cassie qui analyse tout que l'acte physique en lui-même ...
- c'est un peu mon reproche habituel pour cette auteure mais trop de descriptions un peu en kaléidoscope et parfois je me perds (notamment quand il y a , j'avais une impression de trop et ça casse un peu l'action !) et de blablas de Cassie (on a parfois l'impression qu'elle nous résume tout ce qui s'est passé avant ... Sauf que si on lit le neuvième tome, c'est qu'on a déjà lu les précédents !)
- je m'attendais tellement à une histoire tournant autour du et en fait pas du tout !! Et j'ai trouvé Cassie ... Je ne sais pas, je pensais qu'elle allait être furieuse, se mettre en colère et que ça servirait de déclencheur pour qu'elle s'émancipe un peu plus !! Et en fait, elle continue les mêmes erreurs alors que dans le précédent tome j'avais vraiment pensé qu'elle avait évolué pour embrasser la badass en elle !!
- pas assez de Pritkin >< J'ai eu l'impression qu'il était toujours parti ailleurs !! Et Cassie qui se retrouve toute seule à tout gérer ...
- j'ai lu que je n'étais pas la seule à avoir été surprise mais on a 9 tomes et pourtant, il n'y a que quatre mois qui se sont écoulés ??!! (ça pourrait expliquer le fait que Cassie n'arrive toujours pas à assumer son nouveau statut ...)
Bref, c'est un livre que j'ai dévoré et adoré mais avec aussi ses défauts ... Malgré toutes mes critiques, Karen Chance reste une de mes auteures préférées parce que j'adore son univers et ses personnages =D
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OMG a book ... In fact, I don't know what to think about it >< I am so torn !! I loved it but sometimes, I wanted to bang my head on a wall ...
What I loved :
- CASSIE CHOSE FINALLY (and that's the one I wanted =D) so we finally had THE sex scenes but also cute scenes =D I hope they will have more moment together in the future <3
- the discovery of the world of witches that I loved !! I hope to see them again in the future x) (and I would love to read things or a short-story about them or just about the wars with the Silver Circle !)
- seeing Louis-Cesare and Dorina from Cassie's point of view (so cute <3)
- the progress of the war which is exciting with all the power games and political intrigues (seeing especially the other consuls in action =D)
- seeing old characters with other points of view (Caedmon <3 I would love to have a short-story about him ... And seeing him fall in love =D) or seeing them evolve (Mircea is the most striking change I think and the most fascinating !! I can't wait to see how his relationship with the consule will evolve =D And I was very intrigued by the attitude of Marlowe (so badass against the Indian consul x)) and I hope to have other short-story about him !!)
- seeing the court of Cassie becoming something concrete and especially a family place ! There are witches, one or two mages, vampires (Marco but also Fred <3) and lots of little girls =D
- POV ... I hope to learn more in the future about him =D
What disappointed me :
- The scenes of sex ... Much as the scenes we had with Mircea or even with Louis-Cesare were PFIOULALA, there ... I was super disappointed because there was a steamy tension between them and the preliminaries were great but the sex itself didn't make me dream ! And Pritkin is supposed to be an incubus !! The problem I think is that each time we focus more on the exchange of power and the thoughts of Cassie who analyzes everything that the physical act in itself ...
- it's a bit my usual reproach for this author but too many descriptions a little like a kaleidoscope and sometimes I get lost (especially when there is the , I had an impression of too much and it stops a little the action!) and Cassie's blahs (we sometimes have the impression that she summarizes everything that happened before ... Except that if we read the ninth book, it's because we already read the previous ones !)
- I was so expecting a story about and not at all ! And I found Cassie ... I don't know, I thought she was going to be furious, get angry and that it would serve as a trigger for her to emancipate a little more !! And in fact, she continues the same mistakes while in the previous book I really thought she had evolved to embrace her inner badass !
- not enough Pritkin >< I had the impression that he was always gone elsewhere !! And Cassie who finds herself alone to manage everything ...
- I read that I was not the only one to have been surprised but we have 9 books and yet, only four months have passed ?? !! (That could explain the fact that Cassie still can't assume her new status ...)
In short, it's a book that I devoured and loved but also with its faults ... Despite all my criticisms, Karen Chance remains one of my favorite authors because I love her universe and her characters =D
June 2, 2020
More like 2.5 stars, but rounded down due to the negative accumulation of books 6-9.
(Apologies in advance for the rant. But these things must be said.)
Apparently Chance finally decided to write a "slower" installment, but not to focus on much-neglected & much-loved side characters to let them breathe & interact. Instead we have draggy scenes of infodumping, tedious recaps of convoluted, tangled, overly-involved backstory, & confusing magical sequences that are difficult to picture, let alone comprehend on an academic level. WHAT IS ALL THIS. These books are nothing like the first 5 (esp the first 3), & that pisses me off because opening books are supposedly the foundation of an entire series. None of this was even hinted at in the start. None of the multiple fey races, covens, timetravel, & ever-more-powerful Pythian magic; Arthurian mythology, dragon shifters, merpeople, demonic entities that aren't demons, visiting the hells, alternate dimensions, soul-splitting (DA FUCK WAS THAT), mismatched timelines, Mircea's convenient obsession with Elena...& that doesn't even cover Cassie's incomprehensible magic. JFC. ENOUGH.
But Chance steadfastly refuses to explore the more-than-adequate cast that's already been established in prior books. Instead she repeatedly piles more & more & more & MOAR into an already overbloated & incomprehensible concept. Judiciously introducing new characters is ok, but continually dumping a new cast into each book is beyond. We spend more time on Gerdie, Saffy, & Caedmon than key long-term cast like Marco, Tami, or Billy. WHO CARES ABOUT GERDIE?? I want to read about the side cast I initially got hooked on. Where's Casanova? Where's Françoise? Where is PRITKIN, for god's sake?
...Speaking of. Here comes an unpopular opinion, but bear with me:
I'd rather Chance had killed Pritkin at the end of #5.
Don't get me wrong; I'd have been devastated. I love Pritkin. But I love him as he WAS, not the way he's become. Not only is he barely in the past 2000+ pages, but even when he's present it's like he's been replaced with a pod. If you're going to change his character AND not use him? FFS. Why did you even spare his life?? Cassie *still* spends all her time thinking about Mircea & worrying about Mircea & evading Mircea & blah blah blah. Clearly Chance wants her with Mircea, so why bother dragging out this stupid triangle that was supposedly resolved?!
*deep breath*
Sorry, y'all. But I'm done. I'll miss Marco & Billy & Rico & Roy & Tami & those three crazy old witches that share an eyeball, but I'm through with this series. No longer will I wade through 500-pg bricks clinging to brief snatches & sightings amidst an otherwise uninteresting slog o' confusion.
(Apologies in advance for the rant. But these things must be said.)
Apparently Chance finally decided to write a "slower" installment, but not to focus on much-neglected & much-loved side characters to let them breathe & interact. Instead we have draggy scenes of infodumping, tedious recaps of convoluted, tangled, overly-involved backstory, & confusing magical sequences that are difficult to picture, let alone comprehend on an academic level. WHAT IS ALL THIS. These books are nothing like the first 5 (esp the first 3), & that pisses me off because opening books are supposedly the foundation of an entire series. None of this was even hinted at in the start. None of the multiple fey races, covens, timetravel, & ever-more-powerful Pythian magic; Arthurian mythology, dragon shifters, merpeople, demonic entities that aren't demons, visiting the hells, alternate dimensions, soul-splitting (DA FUCK WAS THAT), mismatched timelines, Mircea's convenient obsession with Elena...& that doesn't even cover Cassie's incomprehensible magic. JFC. ENOUGH.
But Chance steadfastly refuses to explore the more-than-adequate cast that's already been established in prior books. Instead she repeatedly piles more & more & more & MOAR into an already overbloated & incomprehensible concept. Judiciously introducing new characters is ok, but continually dumping a new cast into each book is beyond. We spend more time on Gerdie, Saffy, & Caedmon than key long-term cast like Marco, Tami, or Billy. WHO CARES ABOUT GERDIE?? I want to read about the side cast I initially got hooked on. Where's Casanova? Where's Françoise? Where is PRITKIN, for god's sake?
...Speaking of. Here comes an unpopular opinion, but bear with me:
I'd rather Chance had killed Pritkin at the end of #5.
Don't get me wrong; I'd have been devastated. I love Pritkin. But I love him as he WAS, not the way he's become. Not only is he barely in the past 2000+ pages, but even when he's present it's like he's been replaced with a pod. If you're going to change his character AND not use him? FFS. Why did you even spare his life?? Cassie *still* spends all her time thinking about Mircea & worrying about Mircea & evading Mircea & blah blah blah. Clearly Chance wants her with Mircea, so why bother dragging out this stupid triangle that was supposedly resolved?!
*deep breath*
Sorry, y'all. But I'm done. I'll miss Marco & Billy & Rico & Roy & Tami & those three crazy old witches that share an eyeball, but I'm through with this series. No longer will I wade through 500-pg bricks clinging to brief snatches & sightings amidst an otherwise uninteresting slog o' confusion.
October 1, 2019
3.5 stars
I usually start reviews with a small, non spoilery, synopsis of the books. But, Brave the Tempest is book nine in the Cassie Palmer series; it’s a series so jam packed with action that a short synopsis is beyond my skill and wouldn’t do the series any justice. So, if you haven’t heard of this series, know this, it’s an action-packed urban fantasy series with a heroine that’s dropped into the deep end of the paranormal world and somehow has to survive. Many deadly and hair-raising shenanigans ensue.
I’ve loved this series for such a long time, I’ve eagerly anticipated reading about whatever scrape Cassie is about to be launched into. What madcap action I have to look forward to. What other unlikely set of circumstances will occur that will some how have her and her companions survive by the skin of their teeth. So, when I read a disappointing book in the very same series I adore, it becomes so much worse than if it was a relatively unknown author or series.
This is the situation I find myself in when thinking about Brave the Tempest. I went in fully prepared to love it, as I do with all these books, but the more I read it the more deflated I became. It wasn’t quite the exciting adventure that I was expecting. These books are usually a roller coaster where we whizz past disaster, catastrophe and general mayhem with no room for breath. Brave the Tempest did have the fast-paced adventure and action that I expected, however, I found it to be a much jerkier and needlessly drawn out ride.
I found the scenes to be overly long and not as punchy as I’m used to. Quite honestly, I found myself getting really bored reading this book. The scenes were too long and lost my attention long before they ended. Something that hasn’t been an issue in previous books, normally I am so caught up in the story that it always comes as a surprise when I realise the book is about to end.
Overall, this was a disappointing instalment in this series. It did have its highlights; it looks like the love triangle has been resolved and I enjoyed seeing the more domestic parts of Pythian life being explored, but I felt like the book needed to be ruthlessly streamlined. Will this stop me reading the next book in the series? Hell no, I still love the series and the characters, and most series have a dud in their somewhere, unfortunately, for me, this book was the dud.
I usually start reviews with a small, non spoilery, synopsis of the books. But, Brave the Tempest is book nine in the Cassie Palmer series; it’s a series so jam packed with action that a short synopsis is beyond my skill and wouldn’t do the series any justice. So, if you haven’t heard of this series, know this, it’s an action-packed urban fantasy series with a heroine that’s dropped into the deep end of the paranormal world and somehow has to survive. Many deadly and hair-raising shenanigans ensue.
I’ve loved this series for such a long time, I’ve eagerly anticipated reading about whatever scrape Cassie is about to be launched into. What madcap action I have to look forward to. What other unlikely set of circumstances will occur that will some how have her and her companions survive by the skin of their teeth. So, when I read a disappointing book in the very same series I adore, it becomes so much worse than if it was a relatively unknown author or series.
This is the situation I find myself in when thinking about Brave the Tempest. I went in fully prepared to love it, as I do with all these books, but the more I read it the more deflated I became. It wasn’t quite the exciting adventure that I was expecting. These books are usually a roller coaster where we whizz past disaster, catastrophe and general mayhem with no room for breath. Brave the Tempest did have the fast-paced adventure and action that I expected, however, I found it to be a much jerkier and needlessly drawn out ride.
I found the scenes to be overly long and not as punchy as I’m used to. Quite honestly, I found myself getting really bored reading this book. The scenes were too long and lost my attention long before they ended. Something that hasn’t been an issue in previous books, normally I am so caught up in the story that it always comes as a surprise when I realise the book is about to end.
Overall, this was a disappointing instalment in this series. It did have its highlights; it looks like the love triangle has been resolved and I enjoyed seeing the more domestic parts of Pythian life being explored, but I felt like the book needed to be ruthlessly streamlined. Will this stop me reading the next book in the series? Hell no, I still love the series and the characters, and most series have a dud in their somewhere, unfortunately, for me, this book was the dud.
January 20, 2020
You really can’t please everyone. I say this as I look at the reviews panning this book for slowing down. Because slowing down a little is exactly what I thought it needed. The last few books passed at such a breakneck speed, I could barely keep up. There were times I didn’t even know what was happening. Not so here. And it was a welcome change.
There is a story arc that continues about a possible vampire army possessed by demons bringing a war in to farie. And Cassie has to continue working out her issues with her young acolytes and her job as Pythyia. But while all of that was interesting and good, I’m all about Pritkin, and Karen Chance is finally giving me everything I have been waiting for on that front. There still a bit of Mircea— even Dory and the great supporting vampire characters, which was cool. But PRITKIN.
I enjoyed this one and for the first time in a while I am excited for the next book in the series.
There is a story arc that continues about a possible vampire army possessed by demons bringing a war in to farie. And Cassie has to continue working out her issues with her young acolytes and her job as Pythyia. But while all of that was interesting and good, I’m all about Pritkin, and Karen Chance is finally giving me everything I have been waiting for on that front. There still a bit of Mircea— even Dory and the great supporting vampire characters, which was cool. But PRITKIN.
I enjoyed this one and for the first time in a while I am excited for the next book in the series.
April 7, 2024
La verdad que esto cada vez me gusta más. La super enorme guerra que se avecina, está interesante, pero lo que en verdad me llama es lo que se va descubriendo de los personajes, que cada vez es más golosón. Definitivamente doloroso lo de Mircea, la verdad. Autores en GL Bis
July 7, 2019
Once you start a Cassie Palmer book, walking away from the story is not an easy thing to do. Every novel in the series proceeds at a breakneck pace, and this one is no exception. Be aware that Brave the Tempest is book nine. All relevant information is summarized when necessary, but it will enhance the adventure if you know these characters. This series is an excellent binge read. Before reading my early copy of Brave the Tempest by Karen Chance, I wish I had time to revisit preceding books.
What I like: Karen Chance combines fantastic wit with pulse-pounding action. These supernaturals stand out. The characters have a unique voice and creative backgrounds that transform typical stereotypes. I relish the twists placed on the urban fantasy genre norms. Cassie Palmer's world is one of the best on the market.
What I don't like: As an avid series enthusiast, I find that repeated summarization interrupts my flow. That fact is not unique to this book, or even this series, and it is often my biggest complaint in a sequential read by any author. I understand the necessity of it, so I take it in stride. Brave the Tempest was no more bothersome than any of the others I have read. For some, maybe most, I think it will be a great addition.
Random Spoilery Thoughts.
What I like: Karen Chance combines fantastic wit with pulse-pounding action. These supernaturals stand out. The characters have a unique voice and creative backgrounds that transform typical stereotypes. I relish the twists placed on the urban fantasy genre norms. Cassie Palmer's world is one of the best on the market.
What I don't like: As an avid series enthusiast, I find that repeated summarization interrupts my flow. That fact is not unique to this book, or even this series, and it is often my biggest complaint in a sequential read by any author. I understand the necessity of it, so I take it in stride. Brave the Tempest was no more bothersome than any of the others I have read. For some, maybe most, I think it will be a great addition.
Random Spoilery Thoughts.
August 7, 2019
This book deals with a lot of fallout from Ride the Storm, in all the best ways. There is a ton of payoff of things set up in previous books. Lots of twists and turns. All in all a solid addition to the series. I could say more, but you'd be better off experiencing it for yourself!
August 1, 2019
I want to cry tears of joy over how much I loved this book. Every time Karen releases a new one it's better than the last. This was no exception. It had everything I'd hoped and more. My favorite parts of her books are the in-between times when we get to see the characters relaxed and interacting. I had a growing obsession with Saffy, and am so happy to finally see queer women represented in this world. I called it! I so called it and I'm so excited I was right about her. There were so many burning questions I had from the last few books that were finally answered, but now I want more. I'm sad that the thrill of reading this book for the first time is over, but I'm anticipating the next now.
August 7, 2019
2/10: Finished the book and it was OK.
“I vote we pretend that didn’t happen,” Billy said. And then it happened again. “Well, shit.”
Billy, I was right there with you after the last book. But I had to see what happened because this is the Cassie Palmer Universe and my all-time favourite vampire series and... Mircea. Yeah, I said it. I'm Team Mircea all the way.
WARNING: Possible spoilers ahead & I don't have the energy to block out bits and pieces or even the whole review. Read on at your peril!
How all I want, all I think about anymore, is a way to get you back.
Me too, Mircea. Me too.
After the debacle which was the last book, I was hanging out for some resolution and progression, and yes, Mircea & Cassie getting back together. I was willing to give the author another go, because... all-time-favourite-vampire-series!
Unfortunately, things didn't go my way.
I am devastated. Not just because things didn't go my way - that happens in books - but because I think Cassie & I are about to part ways. Book 9 and I've had it.
Cassie's been Pythia for about four months, which means a lot has happened in those four months, and we're up to book 9 and yet, I can't help feeling not enough has happened. Make sense?
There are a lot of words and not a lot of plot and character development is going backward.
Goddamn it, Pritkin! Stop trying to roofie me!
I skipped passages toward the end. Seriously! Which, on a Kindle, meant whole pages. Because there was too much action, and not enough progression, and Pritkin wasn't acting like Pirkin, and Mircea, what the...?
Four months, people, and she's switched camps. I haven't, and so we have a problem.
I'm so sad. Because... Mircea! I'm really freaking sad. But skipping pages just to be done with it is a good sign that you're actually already done with it.
I have loved this series. Mircea to me was the epitome of a master vampire. All other vampires pale in comparison to Mircea. He's the vamp in my dreams.
So, yeah. This one was hard for me. And on top of the last one? Well...
I rolled my eyes hard enough that I think I saw my brain.
“I vote we pretend that didn’t happen,” Billy said. And then it happened again. “Well, shit.”
Billy, I was right there with you after the last book. But I had to see what happened because this is the Cassie Palmer Universe and my all-time favourite vampire series and... Mircea. Yeah, I said it. I'm Team Mircea all the way.
WARNING: Possible spoilers ahead & I don't have the energy to block out bits and pieces or even the whole review. Read on at your peril!
How all I want, all I think about anymore, is a way to get you back.
Me too, Mircea. Me too.
After the debacle which was the last book, I was hanging out for some resolution and progression, and yes, Mircea & Cassie getting back together. I was willing to give the author another go, because... all-time-favourite-vampire-series!
Unfortunately, things didn't go my way.
I am devastated. Not just because things didn't go my way - that happens in books - but because I think Cassie & I are about to part ways. Book 9 and I've had it.
Cassie's been Pythia for about four months, which means a lot has happened in those four months, and we're up to book 9 and yet, I can't help feeling not enough has happened. Make sense?
There are a lot of words and not a lot of plot and character development is going backward.
Goddamn it, Pritkin! Stop trying to roofie me!
I skipped passages toward the end. Seriously! Which, on a Kindle, meant whole pages. Because there was too much action, and not enough progression, and Pritkin wasn't acting like Pirkin, and Mircea, what the...?
Four months, people, and she's switched camps. I haven't, and so we have a problem.
I'm so sad. Because... Mircea! I'm really freaking sad. But skipping pages just to be done with it is a good sign that you're actually already done with it.
I have loved this series. Mircea to me was the epitome of a master vampire. All other vampires pale in comparison to Mircea. He's the vamp in my dreams.
So, yeah. This one was hard for me. And on top of the last one? Well...
I rolled my eyes hard enough that I think I saw my brain.
August 2, 2019
REVIEW: Well damn if that wasn’t just about everything damn thing I wanted! I’m glad for once I don’t have anything to rage or complain about! Decent overall story progression, characters all making some good progress, most of all Cassie has slipped into badass leadership shoes & holding her own. Looking forward to the next book 😉
*UPDATED* I was forced to edit my original post because SOMEONE didn’t like it & whined to mods.
Time again for another go around on the “How Will Pritkin be Kept Just out of Cassie’s Reach Now?” Tilt ‘O’ Whirl of Over the Top Action & Reader Frustration!!! Wheeeeeeeeeee!!! I have an odd relationship with this series. I have an obsessive adoration of these books & certain characters but I am also very vocal in my criticism of the writing & it doesn’t seem to go over well.
I’ve shared a heated debate or two in the past & been blocked on Twitter for defending someone else’s criticism. That won’t stop me from buying the books & reviewing them though ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
*UPDATED* I was forced to edit my original post because SOMEONE didn’t like it & whined to mods.
Time again for another go around on the “How Will Pritkin be Kept Just out of Cassie’s Reach Now?” Tilt ‘O’ Whirl of Over the Top Action & Reader Frustration!!! Wheeeeeeeeeee!!! I have an odd relationship with this series. I have an obsessive adoration of these books & certain characters but I am also very vocal in my criticism of the writing & it doesn’t seem to go over well.
I’ve shared a heated debate or two in the past & been blocked on Twitter for defending someone else’s criticism. That won’t stop me from buying the books & reviewing them though ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
September 8, 2019
READ (audio) 8-7-2019 [(★★★★½)
Timeline = @ 2wks after #8 (and shortly after Dorina 4.5 Dragon’s Claw). ]
————
Regardless of my personal quibbles w/ this series, I chomp at the bit (quietly) for each new release. Given the events in the past few books, figured a re-read would get me thru to release date.
Best laid plans, right? Nope. ‘Late-night tired eyes’ error led me to start a month too soon. Sticking to AB format did ease untold hours spent in summer gridlock but... *checks calendar*
Still weeks until release date, so loaded up Dorina #4 audio... Good thing, too, b/c of different POV/info re: overlapping events (eg, attack at Consul's NY residence).
*checks for audio info*
*checks calendar & weather forecast; wonders if current memory can last*
Timeline = @ 2wks after #8 (and shortly after Dorina 4.5 Dragon’s Claw). ]
————
Regardless of my personal quibbles w/ this series, I chomp at the bit (quietly) for each new release. Given the events in the past few books, figured a re-read would get me thru to release date.
Best laid plans, right? Nope. ‘Late-night tired eyes’ error led me to start a month too soon. Sticking to AB format did ease untold hours spent in summer gridlock but... *checks calendar*
Still weeks until release date, so loaded up Dorina #4 audio... Good thing, too, b/c of different POV/info re: overlapping events (eg, attack at Consul's NY residence).
*checks for audio info*
*checks calendar & weather forecast; wonders if current memory can last*
July 15, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Brave the Tempest, by author Karen Chance, is the 9th installment in the authors Cassie Palmer series. As a brief summary, Cassie is the Chief Seer of the supernatural world. Even though this series has been going on since 2006, only a short 4 months have gone by in this world since she was chosen by the Pythia powers. However, she still doesn't have a job description. Nobody has told her what her job is really supposed to entail. Everybody, vampires, demons, and mages have pretty much just accepted the quirkiness that is Cassie and learned that she can not be controlled or handled.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Brave the Tempest, by author Karen Chance, is the 9th installment in the authors Cassie Palmer series. As a brief summary, Cassie is the Chief Seer of the supernatural world. Even though this series has been going on since 2006, only a short 4 months have gone by in this world since she was chosen by the Pythia powers. However, she still doesn't have a job description. Nobody has told her what her job is really supposed to entail. Everybody, vampires, demons, and mages have pretty much just accepted the quirkiness that is Cassie and learned that she can not be controlled or handled.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
August 2, 2019
Worth the wait.
Honestly, whilst I was as invested in the last few books of the series as I was the entire Cassie Palmer Universe, at times i found the pace of the books confusing and chaotic.
In Brave the Tempest I felt a focus to the storytelling that is reminiscent of the initial books in the series. I felt like Cassie (and myself as the reader) had moments to breathe and much needed conversations were allowed to be had.
I loved that our main characters were allowed the time to play out a scene before the next crazy life threatening adventure came to their doorstep.
While action and world building it certainly important, to me, it's the relationship building that keeps me invested in any story and I'm so glad they were given the time in this book. And even times when pivotal conversations were interrupted and i was so pleased that the author made a point to returning to those moments and rounding it off. There's nothing that irritates me more in a story then when the reader is left hanging on a plot point and it never comes back around (one small thing, I wish Cassie finally remember to talk to Pritkin about his mother which was hinted at but didn't end up happening).
It was a highly satisfying read and definitely dragged me out of a book slump. I am highly anticipating the next installment. So much so that I hopped straight onto Karen Chance's page to stalk info on when the next book release is.
Thank you for continuing the story.
Honestly, whilst I was as invested in the last few books of the series as I was the entire Cassie Palmer Universe, at times i found the pace of the books confusing and chaotic.
In Brave the Tempest I felt a focus to the storytelling that is reminiscent of the initial books in the series. I felt like Cassie (and myself as the reader) had moments to breathe and much needed conversations were allowed to be had.
I loved that our main characters were allowed the time to play out a scene before the next crazy life threatening adventure came to their doorstep.
While action and world building it certainly important, to me, it's the relationship building that keeps me invested in any story and I'm so glad they were given the time in this book. And even times when pivotal conversations were interrupted and i was so pleased that the author made a point to returning to those moments and rounding it off. There's nothing that irritates me more in a story then when the reader is left hanging on a plot point and it never comes back around (one small thing, I wish Cassie finally remember to talk to Pritkin about his mother which was hinted at but didn't end up happening).
It was a highly satisfying read and definitely dragged me out of a book slump. I am highly anticipating the next installment. So much so that I hopped straight onto Karen Chance's page to stalk info on when the next book release is.
Thank you for continuing the story.
July 30, 2019
Slight spoilers ahead:
Another EXCELLENT INSTALLMENT. I was so excited when Cassie took her seat at the table! On top of that, she is making Power Moves! She does something really bada** in order to make a point and I fully loved her decision.
I feel like in this book we got to see the vamps a little more vulnerable than they could ever be comfortable with and I am so here for it. They need a little reality knocked into them - and it’s so funny that Cassie is less phased than they are! This book kind of made me like Mircea again after he broke my heart in the last one (erg! I thought I was done with this!), but I’ve always been susceptible.
PRITKIN, you know? Just Pritkin. The moments that he’s there are just - they make me melt into an ooey gooey pile.
Can’t wait for the next one KC!
Another EXCELLENT INSTALLMENT. I was so excited when Cassie took her seat at the table! On top of that, she is making Power Moves! She does something really bada** in order to make a point and I fully loved her decision.
I feel like in this book we got to see the vamps a little more vulnerable than they could ever be comfortable with and I am so here for it. They need a little reality knocked into them - and it’s so funny that Cassie is less phased than they are! This book kind of made me like Mircea again after he broke my heart in the last one (erg! I thought I was done with this!), but I’ve always been susceptible.
PRITKIN, you know? Just Pritkin. The moments that he’s there are just - they make me melt into an ooey gooey pile.
Can’t wait for the next one KC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2019
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I usually start reviews with a small, non spoilery, synopsis of the books. But, Brave the Tempest is book nine in the Cassie Palmer series; it’s a series so jam packed with action that a short synopsis is beyond my skill and wouldn't do the series any justice. So, if you haven’t heard of this series, know this, it’s an action-packed urban fantasy series with a heroine that’s dropped into the deep end of the paranormal world and somehow has to survive. Many deadly and hair-raising shenanigans ensue.
I’ve loved this series for such a long time, I’ve eagerly anticipated reading about whatever scrape Cassie is about to be launched into. What madcap action I have to look forward to. What other unlikely set of circumstances will occur that will some how have her and her companions survive by the skin of their teeth. So, when I read a disappointing book in the very same series I adore, it becomes so much worse than if it was a relatively unknown author or series.
This is the situation I find myself in when thinking about Brave the Tempest. I went in fully prepared to love it, as I do with all these books, but the more I read it the more deflated I became. It wasn’t quite the exciting adventure that I was expecting. These books are usually a roller coaster where we whizz past disaster, catastrophe and general mayhem with no room for breath. Brave the Tempest did have the fast-paced adventure and action that I expected, however, I found it to be a much jerkier and needlessly drawn out ride.
I found the scenes to be overly long and not as punchy as I’m used to. Quite honestly, I found myself getting really bored reading this book. The scenes were too long and lost my attention long before they ended. Something that hasn’t been an issue in previous books, normally I am so caught up in the story that it always comes as a surprise when I realise the book is about to end.
Overall, this was a disappointing instalment in this series. It did have its highlights; it looks like the love triangle has been resolved and I enjoyed seeing the more domestic parts of Pythian life being explored, but I felt like the book needed to be ruthlessly streamlined. Will this stop me reading the next book in the series? Hell no, I still love the series and the characters, and most series have a dud in their somewhere, unfortunately, for me, this book was the dud.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
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