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Whyborne & Griffin #7
Maelstrom
Tra l’improvvisa ma sospetta generosità del padre e l’incauta promessa fatta a Christine di aiutarla a organizzare il suo matrimonio, Percival Endicott Whyborne ha abbastanza di cui preoccuparsi. Ma quando la donazione di un codice misterioso al museo Ladysmith attira l’attenzione di un culto omicida, Whyborne si trova a dover fare una corsa contro il tempo per decifrarne subito i segreti.
Anche Griffin ha un caso: la scomparsa di una mappa storica, che conduce rapidamente a vari omicidi. Qualcuno compie sacrifici umani durante rituali oscuri, e tutti gli indizi conducono proprio al museo.
Con gli amici Christine e Iskander, Whyborne e Griffin devono scoprire il vero scopo del culto prima che sia troppo tardi. Forze oscure sono all’opera proprio nel cuore del museo, e vogliono qualcosa di più del codice di Whyborne.
Vogliono la sua vita.
Anche Griffin ha un caso: la scomparsa di una mappa storica, che conduce rapidamente a vari omicidi. Qualcuno compie sacrifici umani durante rituali oscuri, e tutti gli indizi conducono proprio al museo.
Con gli amici Christine e Iskander, Whyborne e Griffin devono scoprire il vero scopo del culto prima che sia troppo tardi. Forze oscure sono all’opera proprio nel cuore del museo, e vogliono qualcosa di più del codice di Whyborne.
Vogliono la sua vita.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 11, 2015
89 people are currently reading
765 people want to read
About the author
Jordan L. Hawk
84 books2,636 followersJordan L. Hawk is a trans author from North Carolina. Childhood tales of mountain ghosts and mysterious creatures gave him a life-long love of things that go bump in the night. When he isn’t writing, he brews his own beer and tries to keep the cats from destroying the house. His best-selling Whyborne & Griffin series (beginning with Widdershins) can be found in print, ebook, and audiobook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 439 reviews
October 7, 2019
4.25 stars
So much better than book 6. I will choke that up to a minor fluke. It happens sometimes. The writing is always good, the world building takes me to another place in time. So so Good.
Whyborne and Griffin complement each other so well. The chemistry between them oozes off the pages. Their adventurous sexcapades are hilarious and entertaining to read. These two know it is important to christen every room you can in your lifetime.
The mystery/ horror was also entertaining. It is the reason i read this one in one sitting. I just couldn't stop, i wanted to know what was going to happen next. Whyborne, Griffin and the rest of the gang will never disappoint when it comes to mingling with some weird looking creatures.
Saul was my little hero. The protector of their home, the gatekeeper. He gets a medal.
The humour that i felt was missing in the last book is back. Let's just say the interactions with Whyborne, Griffin, Christine, Iskander, Miss Parkhurst and Persephone were hilarious. Miss. P got a tiny bit of a crash.
Overall, it was enjoyable and very entertaining.
So much better than book 6. I will choke that up to a minor fluke. It happens sometimes. The writing is always good, the world building takes me to another place in time. So so Good.
Whyborne and Griffin complement each other so well. The chemistry between them oozes off the pages. Their adventurous sexcapades are hilarious and entertaining to read. These two know it is important to christen every room you can in your lifetime.
The mystery/ horror was also entertaining. It is the reason i read this one in one sitting. I just couldn't stop, i wanted to know what was going to happen next. Whyborne, Griffin and the rest of the gang will never disappoint when it comes to mingling with some weird looking creatures.
Saul was my little hero. The protector of their home, the gatekeeper. He gets a medal.
The humour that i felt was missing in the last book is back. Let's just say the interactions with Whyborne, Griffin, Christine, Iskander, Miss Parkhurst and Persephone were hilarious. Miss. P got a tiny bit of a crash.
Overall, it was enjoyable and very entertaining.
Read
November 22, 2015More Whyborne! More Griffin! More Christine!
I had no idea how Jordan was going to continue with this series, but let's just say it's both ingenious and effective. Great new story arc opening up with wonderful potential. Some laugh out loud moments, including a joke quietly set up throughout the whole book that pays off gloriously at a point of huge tension and drama; lots of sweetness, lots of hotness, lots of horror. Hugely enjoyable.
Disclaimer: Jordan is an author friend, we've written together, etc etc. This is precisely *because* I love her storytelling and her style. And bitterly envy her ability to write continuing series with new exciting character arcs and events. /glares/
I had no idea how Jordan was going to continue with this series, but let's just say it's both ingenious and effective. Great new story arc opening up with wonderful potential. Some laugh out loud moments, including a joke quietly set up throughout the whole book that pays off gloriously at a point of huge tension and drama; lots of sweetness, lots of hotness, lots of horror. Hugely enjoyable.
Disclaimer: Jordan is an author friend, we've written together, etc etc. This is precisely *because* I love her storytelling and her style. And bitterly envy her ability to write continuing series with new exciting character arcs and events. /glares/
December 12, 2015
Oh, Whyborne. Oh, Griffin. How I love you both! I don't think I'll ever tire of these two. This book is fantastic. I am stunned that Jordan L. Hawk has managed to keep these two and their adventures so thrilling and fresh over the course of seven books, but she has. This one is exciting, sexy, and sends the series off in a direction with a lot of new possibilities. I hope the author is working on number eight right now, 'cause I'm ready!
January 19, 2016
Review written January 9, 2016
4 1/2 Stars - Fantastic, fabulous, fun and... I enjoyed
Book #7
~ Buddyread (as the W&G tradition by now requires) with Bev and Sofia. We started December 30, 2015. (They of course finished a week ago...) Thanks Ladies!! ~
*********************************************
Maelstrom is the new seventh book in this always highly adventurous, and often spooky scary, historical M/M Whyborne & Griffin series by Jordan L. Hawk. One of the best 'paranormal' M/M series to follow in my opinion. These two main characters deep love is simply stunning.
MC's, past events, my reviews, POV, etc:
*********************************************
Widdershins 1900 (or 1901)...
It is to be a grand grand wedding between Christine and Iskander at Whyborne House of all places. I had my doubts... At the same time are two people killed in a very horrible way and our four friends has their hands full between between wedding preparations and new mystery discoveries.
I'm not going to spoil anything about the plot here but this quote by the town Widdershins itself was truly quite beautiful:
*********************************************
Once again both heartbreaking beautiful and creepy adventurous. Love these gorgeous characters, their intense and steaming hot partnership, their awesome friends, a maybe future love affair between Miss P & P, the librarians and so on and so on.
And, and, and.....just the thought of lovely hot Griffin taking a needed summer swim. (My secret future dream-man.)
Maelstrom was another great installment. My full love.
(Looking for a new reading challenge? Don't miss to check out this amazing well done M/M series.)
*********************************************
I LIKE - my favorite para M/M-boyfriends-boys so much
*******
...a creepy read
4 1/2 Stars - Fantastic, fabulous, fun and... I enjoyed
Book #7
~ Buddyread (as the W&G tradition by now requires) with Bev and Sofia. We started December 30, 2015. (They of course finished a week ago...) Thanks Ladies!! ~
*********************************************
Maelstrom is the new seventh book in this always highly adventurous, and often spooky scary, historical M/M Whyborne & Griffin series by Jordan L. Hawk. One of the best 'paranormal' M/M series to follow in my opinion. These two main characters deep love is simply stunning.
‘I’d wanted to seduce him from the day we met, to delve beneath the frosty exterior and reveal the passion I sensed boiling within.’
MC's, past events, my reviews, POV, etc:
*********************************************
Widdershins 1900 (or 1901)...
It is to be a grand grand wedding between Christine and Iskander at Whyborne House of all places. I had my doubts... At the same time are two people killed in a very horrible way and our four friends has their hands full between between wedding preparations and new mystery discoveries.
I'm not going to spoil anything about the plot here but this quote by the town Widdershins itself was truly quite beautiful:
‘This little splinter that is me (but become its own self, too; both at the same time) turns my attention to the hole in the sky. The fulfillment of my purpose, the reason the Masters twisted the lines of arcane fire and created the maelstrom. Created me.
My sole reason for being, and the last thing I ever wanted. Does the edge of steel wish to cut flesh? The hammer wish to crush bone? Or is it enough to merely exist? To be.’
*********************************************
Once again both heartbreaking beautiful and creepy adventurous. Love these gorgeous characters, their intense and steaming hot partnership, their awesome friends, a maybe future love affair between Miss P & P, the librarians and so on and so on.
And, and, and.....just the thought of lovely hot Griffin taking a needed summer swim. (My secret future dream-man.)
‘I paused in my reading to watch Griffin. I could make out the white stripes of his bathing costume, and wished suddenly I might see him better. He cut such a fine figure in it.’
Maelstrom was another great installment. My full love.
(Looking for a new reading challenge? Don't miss to check out this amazing well done M/M series.)
*********************************************
I LIKE - my favorite para M/M-boyfriends-boys so much
*******
...a creepy read
July 20, 2018
if you haven't started reading this series yet then i honestly don't know what the hell you're waiting for
June 1, 2020
For all intents and purposes, this series should have bored me to tears by now. It started out with a lovable, but painfully shy hero stumbling into some good fortune, and it ended up a full blown supernatural mystery series that just won't end. And I'm not just referring to the Monster-of-the-episode type of occurrence, but also to the surprisingly interesting character development that befell our main characters.
In short, when your heroes are a supernaturally gifted hunk/eye-candy respectively, there's not much even the most cackling of villains can achieve. Then again, when you use high school bully-types as your henchmen, what were you expecting?!
On the less eye-roll-inducing of side of things, three cheers for Whyborne's long suffering secretary's crush... the end of it I mean. It was finally time for Ms. Parkhurts' considerable knitting talents to find a new outlet. *insert shameless snickering*
Additionally, I believe I may have seriously chosen the wrong profession: XIXth century librarians live a so much more interesting life. I'm almost wishing to somehow "stumble" on a daily (weekly) schedule of Mr. Quinn's. I have a feeling it'll provide more than just shits and giggles. They'll be very dignified shits and giggles thankyouvermuch.
Score: 3.8/5 stars
The end result was a highly entertaining read, that I just blazed through. Granted, some of the developments once again took me into WTF territory, but then no one's perfect.
================================
Review of book 1: Widdershins
Review of book 1.5: Eidolon
Review of book 2: Threshold
Review of book 3: Stormhaven
Review of book 3.5: Remnant: A Caldwell & Feximal/Whyborne & Griffin Mystery
Review of book 4: Necropolis
Review of book 5: Bloodline
Review of book 6: Hoarfrost
Review of book 8: Fallow
Review of book 8.5: Undertow
Review of book 9: Draakenwood
Review of book 10: Balefire
Review of book 11: Deosil
In short, when your heroes are a supernaturally gifted hunk/eye-candy respectively, there's not much even the most cackling of villains can achieve. Then again, when you use high school bully-types as your henchmen, what were you expecting?!
On the less eye-roll-inducing of side of things, three cheers for Whyborne's long suffering secretary's crush... the end of it I mean. It was finally time for Ms. Parkhurts' considerable knitting talents to find a new outlet. *insert shameless snickering*
Additionally, I believe I may have seriously chosen the wrong profession: XIXth century librarians live a so much more interesting life. I'm almost wishing to somehow "stumble" on a daily (weekly) schedule of Mr. Quinn's. I have a feeling it'll provide more than just shits and giggles. They'll be very dignified shits and giggles thankyouvermuch.
“Librarians! Defend your city!” Mr. Quinn shouted from the opposite end of the bridge.
Score: 3.8/5 stars
The end result was a highly entertaining read, that I just blazed through. Granted, some of the developments once again took me into WTF territory, but then no one's perfect.
================================
Review of book 1: Widdershins
Review of book 1.5: Eidolon
Review of book 2: Threshold
Review of book 3: Stormhaven
Review of book 3.5: Remnant: A Caldwell & Feximal/Whyborne & Griffin Mystery
Review of book 4: Necropolis
Review of book 5: Bloodline
Review of book 6: Hoarfrost
Review of book 8: Fallow
Review of book 8.5: Undertow
Review of book 9: Draakenwood
Review of book 10: Balefire
Review of book 11: Deosil
August 12, 2016
Fucking awesome!!!
I hate myself a little for waiting so long to read this.
I have stated many times that I am not a fan of historical reads. But JLH is the exception. The writing, the world building, the characters, the mystery, and the way the story is woven together is pure brilliance. I get so caught up in the story and the excitement that I forget that it's a historical story.
I can't wait to start the next one, so I am gonna go do that now. =]
If you haven't read the series I highly recommend you do.
Happy reading, dolls! xx <3
October 12, 2019
In some ways, this was the strongest volume yet. I'm still not a huge fan of the dual POV due to lack of distinctiveness between the two narratives, but it didn't take me out of the story quite as much this time. Some reeeeally tight story arc / worldbuilding pieces unfolded here!
March 30, 2018
Rating: 5* of five
***THIS IS A REVIEW OF THE SEVENTH BOOK IN A SERIES SO DO NOT UTTER A SYLLABLE OF COMPLAINT ABOUT SPOILERS***
Here's an amazing fact for y'all. I hate the c-a-t in this series because, well, it's a c-a-t. In point of fact the presence of a c-a-t in a book as a suitable companion for a male human is grounds for a one-star deduction from the five total a book can earn. And yet the sharp-eyed habitué of these precincts will note that this book has a five-star rating! Has His Growling Curmudgeonliness softened in his disdain and disgust for Felis catus?!
Don't register for those classes in the aerodynamics of pork just yet, pigs ain't flyin'.
While the c-a-t is prominent in this book and is even presented as capable of performing actions not directly beneficial to itself (which is how we know we're reading a novel), the main focus of this book is on a subject near and dear to my heart: Hating your siblings and your parents, while acknowledging their ability to throttle back their intrinsic evil enough to perform actions that, when squinted at from a far enough distance and lit exactly perfectly, can be construed by an unbiased observer as not entirely destructive. Whyborne's selfish and self-centered father has lost his wife, his adored elder son, and both his daughters; it's no surprise that the poor chump realizes he'd best mend fences with his remaining son, faggot or no. Also no surprise is the said son's unwillingness to let go of his grudge against the old bastard.
And here's where that star comes from. This plot arc has developed over the course of the entire series. It's a difficult task to keep a reader involved in an arc over more than one book without making frequently eyerollingly hamfisted attempts to wedge the damn thing into stories better off without it. Author Hawk has magical fingers. This series doesn't suffer from the dreaded hamfistedness. The presence of Whyborne's father is always plausible or he's left out. While he's there, he acts in character. Even when it's obvious to the reader he's doing his level best to make it up to Whyborne, the man is his abrasive and selfish self. No miracles are adduced. Just as we see the attempts as well as the selfishness, Whyborne does not.
Griffin, however, does, and he tries to offer his dearly beloved a perspective not wholly hostile to Whyborne père. The offer is rebuffed with brusqueness, even a scoche of hurt feelings. Whyborne begins to fear that his beloved husband has been bought off by the sudden generosity his father has shown Griffin. It's even enabled Griffin to purchase a motor car! A (period appropriate) Curved Dash Oldsmobile:
Is that not the most amazing thing! It is in Widdershins, Massachusetts, I can promise you. Griffin is almost bursting with eagerness to take Whyborne for a ride!
In the car, you dirty-minded dregs. In the car.
So Whyborne's fears for Griffin's loyalty are not unfounded; plus he now has to ride in a motor car or risk hurting his dearly beloved's feelings. So into the damned thing he climbs (greater love hath no fuddy-duddy), thence to be sped at a blistering pace (almost twenty miles an hour!) hither, thither, and yon. Worse yet, Christine and her intended groom Iskander the half-Egyptian are enraptured by the damn thing as well. Has Whyborne père cast his net so wide as to deprive his son of all support and succor? The rotter! Then, if that isn't enough to frame Whyborne père in the most villainous light imaginable, he has the audacity to all-but-demand his son visit the evildoer of his childhood, formerly fair-haired boy Stanford, in the comfy sanitorium where he's confined in lieu of a prison cell (greatly to Whyborne's disgruntlement) for the crime of murdering various and sundry people including their mutual sister.
In acceding to his father's barely-not-a-demand to visit Stanford, Whyborne acts like a mulish, unforgiving, spiteful brat towards Stanford as the latter brandishes sweet words and requests for reconciliation. How petty, how small-souled of him, no? Even Griffin advocates for peace! Griffin!! The man was nearly sacrificed to the Elder Gods by Whyborne père and then nearly blown away by Stanford's (badly aimed, thank goodness) gun! Whyborne's feelings of isolation make sense.
I am fully aware of his faulty reasoning and his sense of injustice being perpetrated on him and his pettish whining all from the inside. I see it in myself when dealing with my own "family." (I hasten to add that my siblings have never aimed firearms at anyone nor are they, to the best of my knowledge, sharktoothed half-fish.) So Author Hawk was already singin' my song. The way the family drama and the story drama each resolve in step with the other felt natural, inevitable to me. The fact that Whyborne's loving husband and his best friend both support him emotionally as well as nudge him towards a more charitable view of his intimate enemies is a great enrichment of the emotional facet of the series. It's one reason I keep reading the books. By now most series stories are thin, floppy things. Not Whyborne & Griffin. The world the men occupy is different from our own but keeps adding layers and nuances and even, just like life, harks back to remembered events both fun and not so much.
As this installment of the loving, exciting lives of Whyborne & Griffin approaches its end, there is a chapter...57 to be precise...that will profoundly expand your appreciation for Author Hawk's chops, and will most likely move you as well. For that alone I will read the other two books already out in the series. But I do so in the hope that there will be others to come. It's rare that I feel a desire to continue a series to this length. I feel a strong need to finish what's out before I begin the tedious process of waiting for more.
Trigger warning to the squeamishly heterosexual. Depictions of loving and consensual but still filthy-pig-dirty sex exist in here, just like they do in life; avoid if that's disagreeable to you. Also start at the beginning or you'll be utterly at sea reading the later books.
***THIS IS A REVIEW OF THE SEVENTH BOOK IN A SERIES SO DO NOT UTTER A SYLLABLE OF COMPLAINT ABOUT SPOILERS***
Here's an amazing fact for y'all. I hate the c-a-t in this series because, well, it's a c-a-t. In point of fact the presence of a c-a-t in a book as a suitable companion for a male human is grounds for a one-star deduction from the five total a book can earn. And yet the sharp-eyed habitué of these precincts will note that this book has a five-star rating! Has His Growling Curmudgeonliness softened in his disdain and disgust for Felis catus?!
Don't register for those classes in the aerodynamics of pork just yet, pigs ain't flyin'.
While the c-a-t is prominent in this book and is even presented as capable of performing actions not directly beneficial to itself (which is how we know we're reading a novel), the main focus of this book is on a subject near and dear to my heart: Hating your siblings and your parents, while acknowledging their ability to throttle back their intrinsic evil enough to perform actions that, when squinted at from a far enough distance and lit exactly perfectly, can be construed by an unbiased observer as not entirely destructive. Whyborne's selfish and self-centered father has lost his wife, his adored elder son, and both his daughters; it's no surprise that the poor chump realizes he'd best mend fences with his remaining son, faggot or no. Also no surprise is the said son's unwillingness to let go of his grudge against the old bastard.
And here's where that star comes from. This plot arc has developed over the course of the entire series. It's a difficult task to keep a reader involved in an arc over more than one book without making frequently eyerollingly hamfisted attempts to wedge the damn thing into stories better off without it. Author Hawk has magical fingers. This series doesn't suffer from the dreaded hamfistedness. The presence of Whyborne's father is always plausible or he's left out. While he's there, he acts in character. Even when it's obvious to the reader he's doing his level best to make it up to Whyborne, the man is his abrasive and selfish self. No miracles are adduced. Just as we see the attempts as well as the selfishness, Whyborne does not.
Griffin, however, does, and he tries to offer his dearly beloved a perspective not wholly hostile to Whyborne père. The offer is rebuffed with brusqueness, even a scoche of hurt feelings. Whyborne begins to fear that his beloved husband has been bought off by the sudden generosity his father has shown Griffin. It's even enabled Griffin to purchase a motor car! A (period appropriate) Curved Dash Oldsmobile:
Is that not the most amazing thing! It is in Widdershins, Massachusetts, I can promise you. Griffin is almost bursting with eagerness to take Whyborne for a ride!
In the car, you dirty-minded dregs. In the car.
So Whyborne's fears for Griffin's loyalty are not unfounded; plus he now has to ride in a motor car or risk hurting his dearly beloved's feelings. So into the damned thing he climbs (greater love hath no fuddy-duddy), thence to be sped at a blistering pace (almost twenty miles an hour!) hither, thither, and yon. Worse yet, Christine and her intended groom Iskander the half-Egyptian are enraptured by the damn thing as well. Has Whyborne père cast his net so wide as to deprive his son of all support and succor? The rotter! Then, if that isn't enough to frame Whyborne père in the most villainous light imaginable, he has the audacity to all-but-demand his son visit the evildoer of his childhood, formerly fair-haired boy Stanford, in the comfy sanitorium where he's confined in lieu of a prison cell (greatly to Whyborne's disgruntlement) for the crime of murdering various and sundry people including their mutual sister.
In acceding to his father's barely-not-a-demand to visit Stanford, Whyborne acts like a mulish, unforgiving, spiteful brat towards Stanford as the latter brandishes sweet words and requests for reconciliation. How petty, how small-souled of him, no? Even Griffin advocates for peace! Griffin!! The man was nearly sacrificed to the Elder Gods by Whyborne père and then nearly blown away by Stanford's (badly aimed, thank goodness) gun! Whyborne's feelings of isolation make sense.
I am fully aware of his faulty reasoning and his sense of injustice being perpetrated on him and his pettish whining all from the inside. I see it in myself when dealing with my own "family." (I hasten to add that my siblings have never aimed firearms at anyone nor are they, to the best of my knowledge, sharktoothed half-fish.) So Author Hawk was already singin' my song. The way the family drama and the story drama each resolve in step with the other felt natural, inevitable to me. The fact that Whyborne's loving husband and his best friend both support him emotionally as well as nudge him towards a more charitable view of his intimate enemies is a great enrichment of the emotional facet of the series. It's one reason I keep reading the books. By now most series stories are thin, floppy things. Not Whyborne & Griffin. The world the men occupy is different from our own but keeps adding layers and nuances and even, just like life, harks back to remembered events both fun and not so much.
As this installment of the loving, exciting lives of Whyborne & Griffin approaches its end, there is a chapter...57 to be precise...that will profoundly expand your appreciation for Author Hawk's chops, and will most likely move you as well. For that alone I will read the other two books already out in the series. But I do so in the hope that there will be others to come. It's rare that I feel a desire to continue a series to this length. I feel a strong need to finish what's out before I begin the tedious process of waiting for more.
Trigger warning to the squeamishly heterosexual. Depictions of loving and consensual but still filthy-pig-dirty sex exist in here, just like they do in life; avoid if that's disagreeable to you. Also start at the beginning or you'll be utterly at sea reading the later books.
July 24, 2018
Holy crap on a cracker! Things just keep happening and happening and poor Whyborne is caught up in the middle of it. Finally one asshole has met his end...thank goodness. (I was ready to see him go) and the town is coming together in all ways, shapes and forms.
This was probably my least favorite of the series so far. I don't know why...I can't explain what was missing for me but just something didn't catch my attention as much until close to the end. I still love Whyborne & Griffin and all the characters and will definitely continue reading the series.
This was probably my least favorite of the series so far. I don't know why...I can't explain what was missing for me but just something didn't catch my attention as much until close to the end. I still love Whyborne & Griffin and all the characters and will definitely continue reading the series.
July 12, 2017
4 Stars!
Goodness, that was a doozy!
I’m kinda blown away by the scope of this story, especially the implications all the new developments will have on the future of this series. There’s kinda a bit of flabbergasted-ness that snuck up on me and came out of nowhere because, what the hell just happened???
Fate, destiny, Whyborne and company all intertwined, and seriously, the stakes have just been ratcheted up at least 100 fold.
I really do marvel at the gradual complexity and genius of JLH’s world building, never shirking on the interpersonal relationships and character development. All that’s been revealed has been slowly culminating from the very beginning, and she brings suspense and terror, along with the feels and most importantly, the amazing power of love. In all honesty, what's hinted at to come, this phenomenal group of friends and family are definitely going to need it and a whole lot more!
Goodness, that was a doozy!
I’m kinda blown away by the scope of this story, especially the implications all the new developments will have on the future of this series. There’s kinda a bit of flabbergasted-ness that snuck up on me and came out of nowhere because, what the hell just happened???
Fate, destiny, Whyborne and company all intertwined, and seriously, the stakes have just been ratcheted up at least 100 fold.
I really do marvel at the gradual complexity and genius of JLH’s world building, never shirking on the interpersonal relationships and character development. All that’s been revealed has been slowly culminating from the very beginning, and she brings suspense and terror, along with the feels and most importantly, the amazing power of love. In all honesty, what's hinted at to come, this phenomenal group of friends and family are definitely going to need it and a whole lot more!
December 14, 2015
Seven books into this historical-paranormal series and I think the force is still strong on this one. I am trying to recap the plot for my sake, but I admit, with my bad memory, I will not remember this when book #8 comes anyway. So I won't.
Jordan L. Hawk included several things that happened in previous books -- which made this NOT suitable as stand-alone. But, it's a testament of her great writing, that I didn't even care if I didn't remember. I just went in for the ride and enjoyed every minute of it.
I liked the dual POV's from both Whyborne and Griffin, and how both felt different. I enjoyed Whyborne's still being pretty much clueless about people and rather inept in socializing (Why on earth must you talk to people when you can simply write a short message? -- see, Whyborne speaks my language!!). I loved reading Griffin's giddiness with his new car, and of course Whyborne's exasperation of it.
Then of course we had Christine and Iskander's wedding (finally!)
The action in the end was pretty thrilling and definitely made my heart beat a little faster.
The only thing I could complain about was that Whyborne frustrated me at times with his attitude towards his father. Although I totally understand his point of views but still I sort of wish he was less vindictive. Oh, and also that the bad guys felt a little too black and white. Like when they were "destined" to be the bad guys from the beginning, they would stick as bad guys. Kinda wish that it would be a little subtle than that.
Bottom line, I personally thought that Maelstrom was another winner.
Jordan L. Hawk included several things that happened in previous books -- which made this NOT suitable as stand-alone. But, it's a testament of her great writing, that I didn't even care if I didn't remember. I just went in for the ride and enjoyed every minute of it.
I liked the dual POV's from both Whyborne and Griffin, and how both felt different. I enjoyed Whyborne's still being pretty much clueless about people and rather inept in socializing (Why on earth must you talk to people when you can simply write a short message? -- see, Whyborne speaks my language!!). I loved reading Griffin's giddiness with his new car, and of course Whyborne's exasperation of it.
Then of course we had Christine and Iskander's wedding (finally!)
The action in the end was pretty thrilling and definitely made my heart beat a little faster.
The only thing I could complain about was that Whyborne frustrated me at times with his attitude towards his father. Although I totally understand his point of views but still I sort of wish he was less vindictive. Oh, and also that the bad guys felt a little too black and white. Like when they were "destined" to be the bad guys from the beginning, they would stick as bad guys. Kinda wish that it would be a little subtle than that.
Bottom line, I personally thought that Maelstrom was another winner.
January 7, 2016
The series continues fun and inventive, within its chosen parameters. I liked the implication of a suitable romantic reward for the long-suffering Miss Parkhurst, and would have liked to see more of her/that. Alas, as a minor character she gets only a few throw-away lines. Maybe next outing... the menaces from outside reality seem to be ever-renewable; the literary variety must come from closer sources. I like the lunatic humor, none of it apparent to our earnest and beleaguered protagonists.
New readers should start with Book #1, Widdershins.
Ta, L.
New readers should start with Book #1, Widdershins.
Ta, L.
December 28, 2015
That was flippin' fabulous!
I don't have the words to describe how amazing this was. I laughed. I cried. I put the book down because I couldn't bear to read what happened next but then I picked it right back up because I just had to know.
Ms. Hawk writes the best epic final battle scenes I've ever read. In all of her books.
I love where the story is taking us and I can't wait to see what happens next!
I give this the highest of recommendations. You don't want to miss out on this series. So read the book people! Wait, go read the others in the series before you read this. You won't be sorry, I promise!
Also, librarians are awesome. Jussoyouknow
April 18, 2022
For what I believe is the first time in the four years spanned by this series, Whyborne remembers to lock his office door. He is truly maturing as a character.
As is Niles, although I found his rehabilitation less than convincing.
As is Niles, although I found his rehabilitation less than convincing.
December 28, 2015
It irks me to admit to loving the Widdershins series as much as I do, since the books aren't released through Dreamspinner Press, my home. But dammit, this is absolutely my favorite m/m series. I love everything about each and every book. Now that I've finished the 7th installment, and as far as I know the 8th isn't in existence yet, which is annoying, I may just start at Book One and start all over again. Hawk is a wonderful writer. Hats off. I wish I had her talent.
June 4, 2025
4th re-read June 2025
________________
Can't get enough of this!!!
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Can't get enough of this!!!
October 14, 2019
4.5 Stars
I could happily read about Whyborne and Griffin forever. This series is a paranormal masterpiece. Enough said.
I could happily read about Whyborne and Griffin forever. This series is a paranormal masterpiece. Enough said.
October 6, 2019
4.5 stars
Not many series manage to still being going strong upon reaching their seventh book, but it doesn't seem to be a problem for this series. If nothing else, it's improving with each book.
Maelstrom seems to be mainly a set up for future events and, although I guessed who the “bad guy” was early on, I enjoyed the story very much anyway. In the grand scheme of the series, the “mystery” aspect, if you can call it that, of any single book is not really that important. The arc of the entire story and the characters' development are the strenght of these books.
In this one, Whyborne struggles to accept that his father's good intentions are genuine and, with his past, who can blame him? He doubts the solidity of his most important relationships and questions his worth in the eyes of others as an independent person aside from his father's name and wealth. The bond between him and Griffin is stronger than ever, though, and I loved the fact that,
The secondary characters complement the story well, as always, and there're interesting additions to the cast of old favorites.
Miss Parkhurst seems to I hope it will be expanded in the future.
Last, but not least: the was awesome.
Not many series manage to still being going strong upon reaching their seventh book, but it doesn't seem to be a problem for this series. If nothing else, it's improving with each book.
Maelstrom seems to be mainly a set up for future events and, although I guessed who the “bad guy” was early on, I enjoyed the story very much anyway. In the grand scheme of the series, the “mystery” aspect, if you can call it that, of any single book is not really that important. The arc of the entire story and the characters' development are the strenght of these books.
In this one, Whyborne struggles to accept that his father's good intentions are genuine and, with his past, who can blame him? He doubts the solidity of his most important relationships and questions his worth in the eyes of others as an independent person aside from his father's name and wealth. The bond between him and Griffin is stronger than ever, though, and I loved the fact that,
The secondary characters complement the story well, as always, and there're interesting additions to the cast of old favorites.
Miss Parkhurst seems to I hope it will be expanded in the future.
Last, but not least: the was awesome.
January 25, 2020
Holy fuck, that was awesome.
July 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this one, great mystery and the character development was great.
March 7, 2016
4.5
This instalment goes back to its roots, so to speak. It takes place in Widdershins, Whyborne gets his hands on a very dangerous book, there are cultists who want to steal it, people are being killed in a gruesome and mysterious way, something horrible makes an appearance and so on.
Sounds familiar?
Put that way, it sounds almost like Widdershins. Not to worry, though. It makes sense since Maelstrom starts a new story arc or at least something close to it. You see, what happens in this book is only the beginning. There is absolutely no way this could be left as it is. The story stayed true to its Lovecraftian origins.
It is almost impossible to write about what I loved about it without spoilers. I can't name all those great new and old characters without revealing too much.
As for the things I didn't like, what the villains manage to do near the end made me read as fast as I could just to get it over with. It was hard to get through that part.
Overall, another great Lovecraftian story with a touch of romance.
'Widdershins knows its own.'Maelstrom continues with alternating POVs and it works quite well. . I am not a fan of that summary though. It's a bit spoilery, especially the last part.
This instalment goes back to its roots, so to speak. It takes place in Widdershins, Whyborne gets his hands on a very dangerous book, there are cultists who want to steal it, people are being killed in a gruesome and mysterious way, something horrible makes an appearance and so on.
Sounds familiar?
Put that way, it sounds almost like Widdershins. Not to worry, though. It makes sense since Maelstrom starts a new story arc or at least something close to it. You see, what happens in this book is only the beginning. There is absolutely no way this could be left as it is. The story stayed true to its Lovecraftian origins.
It is almost impossible to write about what I loved about it without spoilers. I can't name all those great new and old characters without revealing too much.
As for the things I didn't like, what the villains manage to do near the end made me read as fast as I could just to get it over with. It was hard to get through that part.
Overall, another great Lovecraftian story with a touch of romance.
January 9, 2020
And we’re back.
I enjoyed this so much more than the previous book. Although I did get exasperated at the obvious clues all the characters seemed to miss.
Despite this the story kept me reading. It’s exciting and this review is so short because I’m moving straight onto the next book now.
April 16, 2017
Full Reviewage on Prism Book Alliance®
The shadows of the museum seemed to swallow his words, as if taking our secret into themselves, even as I took him into me. I gasped, the scars on my right hand pulling as I gripped the desk.
Ival & Grif are at it again and they’re as steamy and expressive and endearing as ever. Whyborne’s strength and power, he carries them with greater ease, yet still feels insufficient, even insignificant. This is particularly true regarding his father. Griffin is as smooth and commanding as one would expect, reading his Ival (swoon) like a book and taking every advantage. Together, they’re one of the best duos in literature for me, a feeling that continues in this story.
Oh and Whyborne’s talent for unintentional humor is baaaaaaaaaack! Poor fellow, he just doesn’t know how funny he can be. Course, if he did, Griffin wouldn’t get the opportunity to let that sly grin appear now and then. ;)
Considering this is book seven in this series, you can expect to read some things from here on out that would be spoilers for anyone has yet to start these adventures that all began in Widdershins. There, you’ve been warned. :)
The mystery is afoot! As is the upcoming Christine-Iskander wedding. Iskander’s character is well ensconced in this world and this merry band of reluctant adventurers. He’s the kind of man who is an equal match to Christine, as well as complimentary. He’s definitely the only one who can keep up with her. He’s paid his dues up to this point and, interestingly, it’s now difficult to imagine this anything other than a quartet: Ival, Grif, Christine, and Iskander.
The pebble of fear never leaves Whyborne nor Griffin. The pebble that could send ripples of ruin all through their lives if the truth about their relationship is ever discovered beyond their family. For all of their success, shared history, and unstoppable love, fear of arrest, and what would surely follow, is still a part of their everyday existence. The laws in this sense are not on their side.
As with the previous books, the main plots and mysteries are new, not a continuation from the last. Despite this, you would (and should!) want to read the series in order. Besides the obvious reason of yeah!books, and ok yeah major character and relationship progression, you’ll miss some of the references that do connect each book, including this one. Two of the best examples come in the forms of Whyborne’s mother and sister. Jussayin’. Fabulous.
Family dynamics are strong in this one. Whyborne and his father, Whyborne and Griffin, both of them with Christine, Whyborne’s Ketoi mother and sister and how everyone interacts with them – there’s a lot going on here, a lot of moving parts, and most of the are imperfect human beings, or otherwise, trying to work through the past, present, and what they want the future to be. Oh and we can’t forget Saul, the cat.
Some cross-species humor for your snippet-loving pleasure:
”Persephone, I have a request to make.”
“Oh?” Her tentacles suddenly unfurled, darting for my head. I ducked, but felt them across my scalp. “Is it to – how do humans say? – style your hair?”
“Stop it!” I batted at the tendrils. Persephone had a fascination with my hair, particularly when it came to vexing me about it. She laughed gleefully. Griffin, the traitor, laughed as well.
Ah, Whyborne, I love when your feathers are predictably and lovingly ruffled.
As a couple, Whyborne and Griffin are at their best in this book. They are quicker to communicate and not assume. They pool their strengths, relying on one another, allowing themselves to lean on each other when one is weak or in need. Their ability to read each other has progressed, their partnership providing support, excitement, and joy. The maturing of their relationship has been beautiful to experience throughout this series. Another benefit to reading it from the beginning.
I figured out one of the components of the mystery early on, spotting one of the baddies. However, the twist? Holy moly! The twist that followed that same thread was a total surprise. Not the function but the form it took! It also made me get all grrrr, my protective streak coming out, particularly for Whyborne.
Speaking of, the focus of this story is on the characters. Instead of a far flung location or universe-sized supernatural force taking center stage, the cast is the star, granted top billing. This is an example of how good Hawk is at mixing it up from book to book. In particular, I’m really liking the roles Iskander and Miss Parkhurst are getting to play.
On the flipside, I was dubious about one particular character’s seeming easy acceptance of their “new” reality. My only guess is that maybe we’ll learn more about them in a future story? Otherwise, there’s not enough of an explanation as to their reactions.
One of my all-time favorite characters? Hands down, that’s Persephone, Whyborne’s sister. Her personality is fantastic and she gets treated to wonderful development and progress in this story. She’s a mix of some of Whyborne’s traits and some of their mother’s. I was grinning every time she was on page.
The final quarter of this story is non-stop, with twists and discoveries and questions, and ‘oh my, how in the world will they make it out of this?’ type exclamations. This isn’t to say that the first 75% is slow because it is not, at all. A good pace is held throughout with organic ebbs and flows. It all leads up to a finale that reads like a beloved action movie, with dastardly deeds, humor, gore, and so much more.
Jordan Hawk has done it again. In book seven! Please don’t let this be the last. Somehow I doubt it is. ;)
The shadows of the museum seemed to swallow his words, as if taking our secret into themselves, even as I took him into me. I gasped, the scars on my right hand pulling as I gripped the desk.
Ival & Grif are at it again and they’re as steamy and expressive and endearing as ever. Whyborne’s strength and power, he carries them with greater ease, yet still feels insufficient, even insignificant. This is particularly true regarding his father. Griffin is as smooth and commanding as one would expect, reading his Ival (swoon) like a book and taking every advantage. Together, they’re one of the best duos in literature for me, a feeling that continues in this story.
Oh and Whyborne’s talent for unintentional humor is baaaaaaaaaack! Poor fellow, he just doesn’t know how funny he can be. Course, if he did, Griffin wouldn’t get the opportunity to let that sly grin appear now and then. ;)
Considering this is book seven in this series, you can expect to read some things from here on out that would be spoilers for anyone has yet to start these adventures that all began in Widdershins. There, you’ve been warned. :)
The mystery is afoot! As is the upcoming Christine-Iskander wedding. Iskander’s character is well ensconced in this world and this merry band of reluctant adventurers. He’s the kind of man who is an equal match to Christine, as well as complimentary. He’s definitely the only one who can keep up with her. He’s paid his dues up to this point and, interestingly, it’s now difficult to imagine this anything other than a quartet: Ival, Grif, Christine, and Iskander.
The pebble of fear never leaves Whyborne nor Griffin. The pebble that could send ripples of ruin all through their lives if the truth about their relationship is ever discovered beyond their family. For all of their success, shared history, and unstoppable love, fear of arrest, and what would surely follow, is still a part of their everyday existence. The laws in this sense are not on their side.
As with the previous books, the main plots and mysteries are new, not a continuation from the last. Despite this, you would (and should!) want to read the series in order. Besides the obvious reason of yeah!books, and ok yeah major character and relationship progression, you’ll miss some of the references that do connect each book, including this one. Two of the best examples come in the forms of Whyborne’s mother and sister. Jussayin’. Fabulous.
Family dynamics are strong in this one. Whyborne and his father, Whyborne and Griffin, both of them with Christine, Whyborne’s Ketoi mother and sister and how everyone interacts with them – there’s a lot going on here, a lot of moving parts, and most of the are imperfect human beings, or otherwise, trying to work through the past, present, and what they want the future to be. Oh and we can’t forget Saul, the cat.
Some cross-species humor for your snippet-loving pleasure:
”Persephone, I have a request to make.”
“Oh?” Her tentacles suddenly unfurled, darting for my head. I ducked, but felt them across my scalp. “Is it to – how do humans say? – style your hair?”
“Stop it!” I batted at the tendrils. Persephone had a fascination with my hair, particularly when it came to vexing me about it. She laughed gleefully. Griffin, the traitor, laughed as well.
Ah, Whyborne, I love when your feathers are predictably and lovingly ruffled.
As a couple, Whyborne and Griffin are at their best in this book. They are quicker to communicate and not assume. They pool their strengths, relying on one another, allowing themselves to lean on each other when one is weak or in need. Their ability to read each other has progressed, their partnership providing support, excitement, and joy. The maturing of their relationship has been beautiful to experience throughout this series. Another benefit to reading it from the beginning.
I figured out one of the components of the mystery early on, spotting one of the baddies. However, the twist? Holy moly! The twist that followed that same thread was a total surprise. Not the function but the form it took! It also made me get all grrrr, my protective streak coming out, particularly for Whyborne.
Speaking of, the focus of this story is on the characters. Instead of a far flung location or universe-sized supernatural force taking center stage, the cast is the star, granted top billing. This is an example of how good Hawk is at mixing it up from book to book. In particular, I’m really liking the roles Iskander and Miss Parkhurst are getting to play.
On the flipside, I was dubious about one particular character’s seeming easy acceptance of their “new” reality. My only guess is that maybe we’ll learn more about them in a future story? Otherwise, there’s not enough of an explanation as to their reactions.
One of my all-time favorite characters? Hands down, that’s Persephone, Whyborne’s sister. Her personality is fantastic and she gets treated to wonderful development and progress in this story. She’s a mix of some of Whyborne’s traits and some of their mother’s. I was grinning every time she was on page.
The final quarter of this story is non-stop, with twists and discoveries and questions, and ‘oh my, how in the world will they make it out of this?’ type exclamations. This isn’t to say that the first 75% is slow because it is not, at all. A good pace is held throughout with organic ebbs and flows. It all leads up to a finale that reads like a beloved action movie, with dastardly deeds, humor, gore, and so much more.
Jordan Hawk has done it again. In book seven! Please don’t let this be the last. Somehow I doubt it is. ;)
December 16, 2015
4.5 stars
I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS SERIES!!!!!!
This journey through the first seven books has been epic and one of my favorite reading experiences ever! I honestly don’t ever want it to end!
I am such a fan of long series (more than 3 books) with a singular main-couple as the focus. Whyborne & Griffin are in my TOP COUPLES list along with Vic & Jacob (PsyCop), Jory & Sam (Matter of Time), and Ty & Zane (Cut & Run). All of these couples share long series in common…the established couple. The couple whose love grows stronger and stronger and stands the test of time. Who come to just KNOW each other so well and love each other so deeply.
Maelstrom is book 7 of this series and it is unsurprisingly FABULOUS.
Whyborne is at his surliest. Griffin is at his charming’est. Christine is at her spunkiest. And the bad guys and spirits are at their evilest.
What I like about where this series is going is that the magic and spiritual aspects of the story are now no longer a secret. Cat’s out of the bag. So more and more people know and sorta-understand that there’s something special about our boy Whyborne. And though he hates that, I kinda love it. And I love that Griffin has his own powers. So when it comes to their mystery-solving, they’re more of a team than ever!
I also love that Jordan L. Hawk is unafraid to go to some really NUTSO places in this series. This is ancient cult magic and powers we’re talking about after all. And in this book, there’s a “stolen identity” plot twist that had me freaking out, cracking up, biting my nails in worry, and whooping in joy! All the emotions! Brilliantly written.
The author also keeps pushing the explorations of sensitive emotions in our characters. Whyborne finds himself in a very insecure, rattled, uncertain, jealous place as he deals with his father’s changing behavior towards him and his friends. This whole part of the book had me in tears and I felt such a connection to the MC at this point and wanted to hug him to squeeze the paranoia out of him.
And every scene dealing with Griffin in his new car, driving…I DIED of amusement. SO HYSTERICAL!
All in all, book 7 is one of my favorite of the series. I just had such a great time reading this and missed the characters of Whyborne and Griffin when the book was done! #bookfunk
January 2, 2016
Hawk at her best.
Like a surfer at one with a wave, Ms Hawk is totally riding the wave in this one.
W&G continue maturing, both their point of views are good to see. I like the changing views and the short chapters. They kept the story going at a clipping pace just like Griffin's Curved Dash, on to a crescendo of a finale. Marvellously done. What end wouldn't be marvelous when it started with
"Librarians! Defend your city!"
So right on so many levels. I shall keep on imagining the end because Hawk painted the visuals so vividly.
BR - Bev and Ingela
March 5, 2016
I love these books!
January 3, 2016
Review @
ScatteredThoughtsandRogueWords
I wish we could get a new Whyborne & Griffin story every 6 months. I miss these two so that I've decided to read the series from the beginning again. This series has exceeded all my expectations from when I first decided to start it. I love the creativity, and knowledge that JLH puts into her books. Everyone one of her stories are so authentically done. This book was no exception. With that being sad I felt sort of disconnected in this one. I think it's because it's kinda a review of the big bad from the last couple of books coming together. I felt like it focused so much on the Nephren-Ka & Nyarlathotep that I was getting bored by it. I knew who the villain was in this book, it was only a matter of time at this point.
Whyborne frustrated me. I don't say that kindly because I enjoy him so much. I understand all his reservations when it came to Niles, but he never once stopped to think that this man has lost his entire family. Jeez, say what you want, but that change a man. I loved seeing Persephone in this book. She's hilarious. As usual the baddest woman in M/M romance Christine was amazing as well. I loved seeing her and Iskander making the next steps in their journey. Whyborne & Griffin's love is so endearing that nothing could possibly change them. I really like them as a couple, and I like the little switch a roo that JLH did. If anyone didn't know Griffin knew his Ival. I can't wait for more of these two. I love their adventures, and love the cast of characters. I know JLH has more to come.
ScatteredThoughtsandRogueWords
I wish we could get a new Whyborne & Griffin story every 6 months. I miss these two so that I've decided to read the series from the beginning again. This series has exceeded all my expectations from when I first decided to start it. I love the creativity, and knowledge that JLH puts into her books. Everyone one of her stories are so authentically done. This book was no exception. With that being sad I felt sort of disconnected in this one. I think it's because it's kinda a review of the big bad from the last couple of books coming together. I felt like it focused so much on the Nephren-Ka & Nyarlathotep that I was getting bored by it. I knew who the villain was in this book, it was only a matter of time at this point.
Whyborne frustrated me. I don't say that kindly because I enjoy him so much. I understand all his reservations when it came to Niles, but he never once stopped to think that this man has lost his entire family. Jeez, say what you want, but that change a man. I loved seeing Persephone in this book. She's hilarious. As usual the baddest woman in M/M romance Christine was amazing as well. I loved seeing her and Iskander making the next steps in their journey. Whyborne & Griffin's love is so endearing that nothing could possibly change them. I really like them as a couple, and I like the little switch a roo that JLH did. If anyone didn't know Griffin knew his Ival. I can't wait for more of these two. I love their adventures, and love the cast of characters. I know JLH has more to come.
December 10, 2023
Reread - Dec 2023 - so good, enjoying revisiting this series.
review
..... and Mr Quinn is my favourite!!
review
..... and Mr Quinn is my favourite!!
August 4, 2020
3.5*
Undecided on this one, while there's action, danger and a lot I really liked, but the pacing is off. I found the first half of the book really slow and incidents felt repetitive to those in previous books in the series.
As fond as I am of these characters I struggled to keep interest, it felt like all energy had gone from the series but it was still limping on. They come through by the end but Christine who until now has been spirited was coming across brash and inconsiderate. I pitied Iskander. Whyborne and Griffin are established to a point the excitement is in them facing things together. Miss Pankhurst however showed her mettle.
Niles Whyborne was the most impressively well written, Hawk manages to get us to pity him, almost. Almost, because he's still in essence the same person, brash and manipulative, however there's more to the story. More to him. Percival's attitudes to him and his behaviour also ring true, sullied by experience.
Some, possibly most, of the issue is the dual pov; I'm hoping (without much optimism) that we return to a single viewpoint after this. Whyborne and Griffin are such different personalities yet their povs read identical, several times I had to check the chapter heading to know whose it was. It's disappointing.
The second half of the book has all the drama, lots of action, taunt moments. With better pacing this book would be a phenomenal addition. Instead hmm. I was disappointed in our team's investigative process, Griffin is usually less biased and more logical. It smacked more of convenient to the plot to ignore leads than realistic to them. The villians identies were unexciting, and this book is I believe more ensnared in Lovecraft, the big arching plot of the series takes another big step forward but I have to admit ignorance on those reaching worlds and personally would be happy with a plot focusing more on the lesser evils. The series does seem to have fallen into a trap of slow meandering start, everything happening, big showdown with power, tease of bigger evils to come, the end.
While this definitely has it's moments and I'm commited to reading on, it's unfortunatley not making me grab for the next book.
Undecided on this one, while there's action, danger and a lot I really liked, but the pacing is off. I found the first half of the book really slow and incidents felt repetitive to those in previous books in the series.
As fond as I am of these characters I struggled to keep interest, it felt like all energy had gone from the series but it was still limping on. They come through by the end but Christine who until now has been spirited was coming across brash and inconsiderate. I pitied Iskander. Whyborne and Griffin are established to a point the excitement is in them facing things together. Miss Pankhurst however showed her mettle.
Niles Whyborne was the most impressively well written, Hawk manages to get us to pity him, almost. Almost, because he's still in essence the same person, brash and manipulative, however there's more to the story. More to him. Percival's attitudes to him and his behaviour also ring true, sullied by experience.
Some, possibly most, of the issue is the dual pov; I'm hoping (without much optimism) that we return to a single viewpoint after this. Whyborne and Griffin are such different personalities yet their povs read identical, several times I had to check the chapter heading to know whose it was. It's disappointing.
The second half of the book has all the drama, lots of action, taunt moments. With better pacing this book would be a phenomenal addition. Instead hmm. I was disappointed in our team's investigative process, Griffin is usually less biased and more logical. It smacked more of convenient to the plot to ignore leads than realistic to them. The villians identies were unexciting, and this book is I believe more ensnared in Lovecraft, the big arching plot of the series takes another big step forward but I have to admit ignorance on those reaching worlds and personally would be happy with a plot focusing more on the lesser evils. The series does seem to have fallen into a trap of slow meandering start, everything happening, big showdown with power, tease of bigger evils to come, the end.
While this definitely has it's moments and I'm commited to reading on, it's unfortunatley not making me grab for the next book.
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