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Sasha Urban #3
La Sensitiva Riluttante
La vita da veggente non è così bella come dicono. Soprattutto se sei disoccupata, e il tuo ex capo ti mette ovunque sulla lista nera.
O se una leggendaria strega russa, a cui devi un favore, ti chiede cose inconcepibili.
Quando il pericolo incombe su tutti coloro che mi circondano, c’è solo un uomo a cui posso rivolgermi... e potrebbe non essere quello che sembra.
O se una leggendaria strega russa, a cui devi un favore, ti chiede cose inconcepibili.
Quando il pericolo incombe su tutti coloro che mi circondano, c’è solo un uomo a cui posso rivolgermi... e potrebbe non essere quello che sembra.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2018
389 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
About the author
Dima Zales
110 books737 followersDima Zales is a full-time science fiction and fantasy author residing in Palm Coast, Florida. Prior to becoming a writer, he worked in the software development industry in New York as both a programmer and an executive. From high-frequency trading software for big banks to mobile apps for popular magazines, Dima has done it all. In 2013, he left the software industry in order to concentrate on his writing career.
Dima holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from NYU and a dual undergraduate degree in Computer Science / Psychology from Brooklyn College. He also has a number of hobbies and interests, the most unusual of which might be professional-level mentalism. He simulates mind-reading on stage and close-up, and has done shows for corporations, wealthy individuals, and friends.
He is also into healthy eating and fitness, so he should live long enough to finish all the book projects he starts. In fact, he very much hopes to catch the technological advancements that might let him live forever (biologically or otherwise). Aside from that, he also enjoys learning about current and future technologies that might enhance our lives, including artificial intelligence, biofeedback, brain-to-computer interfaces, and brain-enhancing implants.
In addition to his own works, Dima has collaborated on a number of romance novels with his wife, Anna Zaires. The Krinar Chronicles, an erotic science fiction series, has been a bestseller in its categories and has been recognized by the likes of Marie Claire and Woman’s Day. If you like erotic romance with a unique plot, please feel free to check it out, especially since the first book in the series (Close Liaisons) is available for free everywhere. Keep in mind, though, Dima Zales's books are going to be much more PG 13 . . . at least that’s the plan for now.
Anna Zaires is the love of his life and a huge inspiration in every aspect of his writing. She definitely adds her magic touch to anything Dima creates, and the books would not be the same without her. Dima’s fans are strongly encouraged to learn more about Anna and her work at http://www.annazaires.com/
Dima holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from NYU and a dual undergraduate degree in Computer Science / Psychology from Brooklyn College. He also has a number of hobbies and interests, the most unusual of which might be professional-level mentalism. He simulates mind-reading on stage and close-up, and has done shows for corporations, wealthy individuals, and friends.
He is also into healthy eating and fitness, so he should live long enough to finish all the book projects he starts. In fact, he very much hopes to catch the technological advancements that might let him live forever (biologically or otherwise). Aside from that, he also enjoys learning about current and future technologies that might enhance our lives, including artificial intelligence, biofeedback, brain-to-computer interfaces, and brain-enhancing implants.
In addition to his own works, Dima has collaborated on a number of romance novels with his wife, Anna Zaires. The Krinar Chronicles, an erotic science fiction series, has been a bestseller in its categories and has been recognized by the likes of Marie Claire and Woman’s Day. If you like erotic romance with a unique plot, please feel free to check it out, especially since the first book in the series (Close Liaisons) is available for free everywhere. Keep in mind, though, Dima Zales's books are going to be much more PG 13 . . . at least that’s the plan for now.
Anna Zaires is the love of his life and a huge inspiration in every aspect of his writing. She definitely adds her magic touch to anything Dima creates, and the books would not be the same without her. Dima’s fans are strongly encouraged to learn more about Anna and her work at http://www.annazaires.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 15, 2020
Reluctant Psychic
Sasha Urban Series, Book 3
By: Dima Zales, Anna Zaires
Narrated by: Emily Durante
So much happens in here! Sasha gets snappy and quite her job because she has a love/hate relationship with her boss. A witch wants a special favor she doesn't want to give. Problems with her roommate that takes all her friends to make right. Lots of action!
Great narration!
Sasha Urban Series, Book 3
By: Dima Zales, Anna Zaires
Narrated by: Emily Durante
So much happens in here! Sasha gets snappy and quite her job because she has a love/hate relationship with her boss. A witch wants a special favor she doesn't want to give. Problems with her roommate that takes all her friends to make right. Lots of action!
Great narration!
August 9, 2020
For some reason I didn't love this as much as the second. I think it dragged in places, mostly during the headspace moments even though they were super interesting they were just a bit too long maybe. Either way, I do still really like this series and definitely want more.
April 1, 2020
4.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I am having a great time with this series and I was very curious to discover this third volume after the end of the second novel.
Sasha hasn’t had an easy life since she discovered she’s a psychic. And now that she quit her job, it seems that Nero refuses to conceive even the possibility that it is real. In fact, he does everything he can to ensure that no one takes her applications into account. But our Sasha is determined, she is ready to do anything to find out what Nero is hiding, because she knows he has secrets and she needs to have something against him so he can leave her alone. However, things do not stop there, when Baba Yaga tries by all means to contact her to get back what our heroine owes her, Sasha does not expect such an unreasonable request. Despite the dangers of this mission, we also finally have revelations about Nero, Sasha and who she really is and this end? Arghhh I want to see what happens now!!!!!!
I think it was one of my favorite novels in the series, although it is also very frustrating at times. Sasha, Nero and all the others are always fascinating to follow and how can we resist when our heroine tries to manage her powers as best she can to discover what she can do? Impossible! I’ve already ordered the sequel and I can’t wait to get into it!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I am having a great time with this series and I was very curious to discover this third volume after the end of the second novel.
Sasha hasn’t had an easy life since she discovered she’s a psychic. And now that she quit her job, it seems that Nero refuses to conceive even the possibility that it is real. In fact, he does everything he can to ensure that no one takes her applications into account. But our Sasha is determined, she is ready to do anything to find out what Nero is hiding, because she knows he has secrets and she needs to have something against him so he can leave her alone. However, things do not stop there, when Baba Yaga tries by all means to contact her to get back what our heroine owes her, Sasha does not expect such an unreasonable request. Despite the dangers of this mission, we also finally have revelations about Nero, Sasha and who she really is and this end? Arghhh I want to see what happens now!!!!!!
I think it was one of my favorite novels in the series, although it is also very frustrating at times. Sasha, Nero and all the others are always fascinating to follow and how can we resist when our heroine tries to manage her powers as best she can to discover what she can do? Impossible! I’ve already ordered the sequel and I can’t wait to get into it!
October 8, 2018
This series is so consistently good it just has me chomping at the bit for the next book. I find myself basically wanting to write all of the same things that I did in my reviews of books one and two (which should be read first, if you're just now getting to the party - the books, not my reviews haha).
As with the first two, I breezed right through this book because the story is so fun and interesting with quick-paced chapters that always have you saying "just one more" to yourself... and then suddenly it's dark outside and you're wondering when book four is going to be out (and how you're going to get up for work in the morning). To say nothing of the characters - Lord, the characters! I love every one of them and was perfectly delighted by the adventures Sasha and her friends got up to in this third book, and the extended appearances a few of them made. As always, there was fantastic humor sprinkled throughout and thought-provoking references that sparked a (rather long) conversation about both M.C Escher's works and simulation theory with my nerdy boyfriend (awww, we bonded!). All that plus some more information about Sasha's history is revealed and the continued delicious slow-burn romance? I don't know how to classify this series traditionally as subgenre terms mean different things to everyone - you could call it urban fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, whatever you want, but I'm calling it....simply magical.
4.5 ⭐️
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
As with the first two, I breezed right through this book because the story is so fun and interesting with quick-paced chapters that always have you saying "just one more" to yourself... and then suddenly it's dark outside and you're wondering when book four is going to be out (and how you're going to get up for work in the morning). To say nothing of the characters - Lord, the characters! I love every one of them and was perfectly delighted by the adventures Sasha and her friends got up to in this third book, and the extended appearances a few of them made. As always, there was fantastic humor sprinkled throughout and thought-provoking references that sparked a (rather long) conversation about both M.C Escher's works and simulation theory with my nerdy boyfriend (awww, we bonded!). All that plus some more information about Sasha's history is revealed and the continued delicious slow-burn romance? I don't know how to classify this series traditionally as subgenre terms mean different things to everyone - you could call it urban fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, whatever you want, but I'm calling it....simply magical.
4.5 ⭐️
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 14, 2019
More magic and mayhem!
October 5, 2018
wow, this series is getting better. I Ioved this third instalment of Sasha Urban series. The book carries on from the end of the second. It was a well written, fast pace book, which was full of action and imaginative writing. There was continued development of storyline and characters, with more things revealed. The characters are fantastic and the storyline was engaging.
Looking forward to the next instalment of Sasha's adventures.
Looking forward to the next instalment of Sasha's adventures.
December 11, 2019
The resolution to the crisis is indeed a but too Deus Ex Machina for my liking, especially after all the build-up, but I think I'm desperately devouring these books waiting for two of the characters to finally get it on. Except I'm not too sure why I want that because all they've shown so far is what could be considered a crush by the female character towards the male character. Hey-ho, I'll figure out why I'm crazy some other time. In the meantime, this is well worth the time spent.
April 20, 2020
Cassandra Gold - per RFS
.
Ben trovate care Fenici, siete curiose di sapere cosa sta macchinando la nostra piccola Veggente? È presto detto.
Abbiamo lasciato Sasha a fare i conti con la decisione di estromettere Nero dalla sua vita. Intanto, rimasta ormai senza mentore, continua a seguire le istruzioni fornite da Darien per raggiungere lo stato di trance, necessario a permetterle di avere premonizioni anche in stato di stress. Intanto Baba Yaga, che non le dà tregua, esige il pagamento per le sue prestazioni con una richiesta fuori dalla portata delle possibilità della ragazza. Il suo orientamento, inoltre, non avviene certo nella tranquillità che si aspettava: come compagna di classe si ritrova ad avere proprio la figlia di Chester che, insieme alle sue amiche, tipiche arpie adolescenziali in versione lupo mannaro, cercano di renderle la vita impossibile. Felix però le sta vicino, aiutandola in ogni situazione; i due, insieme, cercano di scoprire i segreti di Nero per evitare che Sasha cada di nuovo in suo potere, attraverso le capacità di Felix di hackerare ogni dispositivo. Nel frattempo, la sua amica Ariel è sempre più distante. Sasha teme che si sia lasciata prendere la mano da Gaius, intossicandosi con il sangue del vampiro, una droga molto potente. Scopre di aver ragione, purtroppo, nel modo peggiore. Dopo diversi giorni di assenza scopre che Baba Yaga, per vendicarsi di lei, ha fatto prigioniera Ariel. Per fortuna Vlad e Rose corrono in suo aiuto per darle una mano a risolvere il problema. La situazione però è drammatica e Sasha è costretta a chiedere di nuovo l’appoggio di Nero. Il suo Mentore accorre, chiedendole in cambio di ripristinare il loro rapporto di lavoro. Sasha accetta a malincuore. Nel frattempo, Felix, scoprendo le informazioni richieste, le comunica a Sasha. La Sensitiva piomba a casa di Nero e quello che accade va oltre le sue aspettative.
La storia si evolve in modo imprevisto e diventa sempre più emozionante. L’autore ci concede, a piccoli tratti, scorci della vita dell’oscuro Mentore, lasciandoci saggiare lentamente minime sfaccettature del suo complesso carattere. La sua vita misteriosa, che sembra attraversare le ere, appare da sempre intrecciata con quella della sua pupilla, di cui è stato Pigmalione e custode sin dalla più tenera età della ragazza. La storia ci rivela tutte le implicazioni di ciò, sino a mostrare una parte tenera dell’uomo che si riscopre coinvolto emotivamente con la sua protetta. La passione che arriva a rivelare è ovviamente in contrasto con il suo ruolo, cosa che alimenta la frustrazione di entrambi. Anche Sasha sa che non è sano: rendendosi conto dell’assurdità delle loro emozioni, tenta di negare a sé stessa tutto ciò che prova per Nero, un essere pieno di potere, denaro e successo. La negazione dei loro sentimenti riporta sempre entrambi, però, a quell’unico punto di rottura e compressione.
Riusciranno i due a trovare un modo per far pace con sé stessi, ammettendo i loro sentimenti e trovando sfogo per le loro pulsioni? Troveranno il modo di superare quelle convenzioni sociali e di ruolo che il destino gli ha imposto? Scoprirà Sasha tutto del suo passato? Nero ammetterà i suoi sentimenti, scavalcando la sua posizione e ritrovando la sua umanità? Ariel uscirà dal tunnel oscuro in cui è piombata?
Care Fenici, non so voi, ma io non sto nella pelle all’idea di leggere il prossimo libro di Dima Zales; attendiamo insieme con pazienza la metà di aprile, per aggiornarci sulle vicende di Sasha Urban. Per il momento, restiamo a casa a goderci i suoi bellissimi libri.
.
Ben trovate care Fenici, siete curiose di sapere cosa sta macchinando la nostra piccola Veggente? È presto detto.
Abbiamo lasciato Sasha a fare i conti con la decisione di estromettere Nero dalla sua vita. Intanto, rimasta ormai senza mentore, continua a seguire le istruzioni fornite da Darien per raggiungere lo stato di trance, necessario a permetterle di avere premonizioni anche in stato di stress. Intanto Baba Yaga, che non le dà tregua, esige il pagamento per le sue prestazioni con una richiesta fuori dalla portata delle possibilità della ragazza. Il suo orientamento, inoltre, non avviene certo nella tranquillità che si aspettava: come compagna di classe si ritrova ad avere proprio la figlia di Chester che, insieme alle sue amiche, tipiche arpie adolescenziali in versione lupo mannaro, cercano di renderle la vita impossibile. Felix però le sta vicino, aiutandola in ogni situazione; i due, insieme, cercano di scoprire i segreti di Nero per evitare che Sasha cada di nuovo in suo potere, attraverso le capacità di Felix di hackerare ogni dispositivo. Nel frattempo, la sua amica Ariel è sempre più distante. Sasha teme che si sia lasciata prendere la mano da Gaius, intossicandosi con il sangue del vampiro, una droga molto potente. Scopre di aver ragione, purtroppo, nel modo peggiore. Dopo diversi giorni di assenza scopre che Baba Yaga, per vendicarsi di lei, ha fatto prigioniera Ariel. Per fortuna Vlad e Rose corrono in suo aiuto per darle una mano a risolvere il problema. La situazione però è drammatica e Sasha è costretta a chiedere di nuovo l’appoggio di Nero. Il suo Mentore accorre, chiedendole in cambio di ripristinare il loro rapporto di lavoro. Sasha accetta a malincuore. Nel frattempo, Felix, scoprendo le informazioni richieste, le comunica a Sasha. La Sensitiva piomba a casa di Nero e quello che accade va oltre le sue aspettative.
La storia si evolve in modo imprevisto e diventa sempre più emozionante. L’autore ci concede, a piccoli tratti, scorci della vita dell’oscuro Mentore, lasciandoci saggiare lentamente minime sfaccettature del suo complesso carattere. La sua vita misteriosa, che sembra attraversare le ere, appare da sempre intrecciata con quella della sua pupilla, di cui è stato Pigmalione e custode sin dalla più tenera età della ragazza. La storia ci rivela tutte le implicazioni di ciò, sino a mostrare una parte tenera dell’uomo che si riscopre coinvolto emotivamente con la sua protetta. La passione che arriva a rivelare è ovviamente in contrasto con il suo ruolo, cosa che alimenta la frustrazione di entrambi. Anche Sasha sa che non è sano: rendendosi conto dell’assurdità delle loro emozioni, tenta di negare a sé stessa tutto ciò che prova per Nero, un essere pieno di potere, denaro e successo. La negazione dei loro sentimenti riporta sempre entrambi, però, a quell’unico punto di rottura e compressione.
Riusciranno i due a trovare un modo per far pace con sé stessi, ammettendo i loro sentimenti e trovando sfogo per le loro pulsioni? Troveranno il modo di superare quelle convenzioni sociali e di ruolo che il destino gli ha imposto? Scoprirà Sasha tutto del suo passato? Nero ammetterà i suoi sentimenti, scavalcando la sua posizione e ritrovando la sua umanità? Ariel uscirà dal tunnel oscuro in cui è piombata?
Care Fenici, non so voi, ma io non sto nella pelle all’idea di leggere il prossimo libro di Dima Zales; attendiamo insieme con pazienza la metà di aprile, per aggiornarci sulle vicende di Sasha Urban. Per il momento, restiamo a casa a goderci i suoi bellissimi libri.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2021
I had to wait until nearly the end of book two for Sasha to get fed up with things to where she quit her job and the Cognizant mentor program. Now that she has some free time she wants to find out what secrets Nero is keeping. The more mundane problem of finding a new job. On the minus side there's the payment to be named later that Baba Yaga wants to cash in for her help in restoring Fluffster's memory. By the way what's up with Ariel? Not coming home, missing appointments.
Another quick fun read. With Ariel being absent so much we get to spend more time with Sasha's other roommate Felix. Action, adventure, character building, brewing romance, 5 stars.
Another quick fun read. With Ariel being absent so much we get to spend more time with Sasha's other roommate Felix. Action, adventure, character building, brewing romance, 5 stars.
August 2, 2024
Our FMC has quit her job and her mentor, and is now trying to figure things out, more or less by herself. The real danger and excitement begins in this book as well as the story. The main introductions are over (There are some major ones still left to come out in this series, but the foundation of the world building is mostly complete. I think this is when I really started enjoying this series.
February 1, 2022
DNF at 49% when Sasha is stuck in the spa due to and trying to escape.
The plot pacing continued to be extremely glacial, and a significant portion of the book so far was Sasha trying to figure out her Headspace and clairvoyant abilities and what did and didn't work. Deep character development was missing, especially for the reoccurring characters in the series, and so many new people were introduced with just surface level descriptions yet played pivotal roles in the action. The pop culture references often thrown in were also rather jarring to me.
Sasha herself as a character was often TSTL, and her decision-making could be quite irritating. I don't get why she had to keep info dumping to everyone and getting their opinion on what to do rather than just thinking for herself. She dumped to Felix, she dumped to her neighbor Rose, she dumped to Ariel whenever she managed to make it home, etc.
While I did enjoy the world-building, spelling out every little detail in the world was a bit much, and there was way too much internal monologue and physics/tech explanations for an urban fantasy book. I really do love Fluffster the chinchilla and his abilities, but I think this is the end of series for me since I haven't seen much plot and writing improvement after reading almost 2.5 books, especially with how long each book has been. I reviewed some later book reviews, and I continued to see similar complaints. There wasn't even really any romance either to save my interest, and at this time, I couldn't figure out where that was going at all.
I don't think it's worth my time to continue with the series.
---
Ratings - abandoned series:
#1 The Girl Who Sees: ★★★☆☆
#2 Misfortune Teller: ★★★☆☆
#3 Reluctant Psychic (this book): ★☆☆☆☆ / DNF
The plot pacing continued to be extremely glacial, and a significant portion of the book so far was Sasha trying to figure out her Headspace and clairvoyant abilities and what did and didn't work. Deep character development was missing, especially for the reoccurring characters in the series, and so many new people were introduced with just surface level descriptions yet played pivotal roles in the action. The pop culture references often thrown in were also rather jarring to me.
Sasha herself as a character was often TSTL, and her decision-making could be quite irritating. I don't get why she had to keep info dumping to everyone and getting their opinion on what to do rather than just thinking for herself. She dumped to Felix, she dumped to her neighbor Rose, she dumped to Ariel whenever she managed to make it home, etc.
While I did enjoy the world-building, spelling out every little detail in the world was a bit much, and there was way too much internal monologue and physics/tech explanations for an urban fantasy book. I really do love Fluffster the chinchilla and his abilities, but I think this is the end of series for me since I haven't seen much plot and writing improvement after reading almost 2.5 books, especially with how long each book has been. I reviewed some later book reviews, and I continued to see similar complaints. There wasn't even really any romance either to save my interest, and at this time, I couldn't figure out where that was going at all.
I don't think it's worth my time to continue with the series.
---
Ratings - abandoned series:
#1 The Girl Who Sees: ★★★☆☆
#2 Misfortune Teller: ★★★☆☆
#3 Reluctant Psychic (this book): ★☆☆☆☆ / DNF
October 9, 2018
It’s not about Sasha and Nero :(
I was SO excited to read this as I thought we were finally going to learn about Nero and watch his relationship with Sasha evolve, especially given the blurb....but Nero basically appears in a chapter at the start and a chapter at the end. And the rest of the book is basically an exact replica of the others; they’re in their apartment block a lot, loads of narrative and dialogue about the mundane, extra lengthy descriptive about dream lands, Felix makes food, there’s a big, bloody battle, the end.
Maybe I’ve been spoilt with Anna’s books in expecting more of a love story??? But I was truly gutted that the love story just didn’t happen. And now I’ll bet it’s going to be one of those series that spans 20 books, but we still won’t find out what happens with them!!! Gutted.
I was SO excited to read this as I thought we were finally going to learn about Nero and watch his relationship with Sasha evolve, especially given the blurb....but Nero basically appears in a chapter at the start and a chapter at the end. And the rest of the book is basically an exact replica of the others; they’re in their apartment block a lot, loads of narrative and dialogue about the mundane, extra lengthy descriptive about dream lands, Felix makes food, there’s a big, bloody battle, the end.
Maybe I’ve been spoilt with Anna’s books in expecting more of a love story??? But I was truly gutted that the love story just didn’t happen. And now I’ll bet it’s going to be one of those series that spans 20 books, but we still won’t find out what happens with them!!! Gutted.
November 19, 2018
I'm impressed with the author's imaginative world-building. The story is meandering but enough intriguing details make it through to keep the reader hooked. I do wish the heroine would spend less time asking interminable questions about every little thing in her head, though.
I will definitely read the next one, but I sure hope the author stops filling up page space with this annoying trick.
I will definitely read the next one, but I sure hope the author stops filling up page space with this annoying trick.
October 12, 2018
Bored
I read book 1 & 2 in days. This was tedious. Sasha came across as whiny and everything got repetitive. Sigh.
I read book 1 & 2 in days. This was tedious. Sasha came across as whiny and everything got repetitive. Sigh.
March 12, 2024
This series is better than the last one I read, but it still has its flaws. I like most of the characters, except Nero. Nero is totally devoid of depth or personality. The world building is interesting. But by this point in the series, it should be more realized.
As for flaws? First of all, the fact that she was an illusionist is pointless. It barely matters in the plot. I feel like it's a missed opportunity. The author could use it better. Instead, the author just throws in a card trick here or there as filler.
The next flaw is that there are all of these "Cognitives" that come from a vague otherworld. They are supposed to be secretive and hidden. Yet regular humans already know all about them. They may be legends and old gods, but we still know about all of them. The author had a chance to create something totally new and original. Instead, she went with secret monsters that are in no way a secret.
The final flaw is the same that I had with the last few series that I have read. You have an otherwise strong female hero, but she's dependent on an older man to repeatedly save her. Why? Why can't she just be a badass character dependent on herself.
Xena was such an awesome character because she didn't need a savior. Sure, she had help occasionally, but she didn't rely on Hercules to save her in every episode.
And then there's Sasha's attraction to Nero. Cliche as hell. He's much older than her, in this case, by centuries. He's her boss and an actual father figure, in the sense that he actually helped raise her since she was three years old. Daddy issues are both gross and done to the point of being boring. Why can't these female characters fall for a guy their own age? Why is bedding your dad, or someone old enough to be your dad, part of the collective fantasies of women?
As for flaws? First of all, the fact that she was an illusionist is pointless. It barely matters in the plot. I feel like it's a missed opportunity. The author could use it better. Instead, the author just throws in a card trick here or there as filler.
The next flaw is that there are all of these "Cognitives" that come from a vague otherworld. They are supposed to be secretive and hidden. Yet regular humans already know all about them. They may be legends and old gods, but we still know about all of them. The author had a chance to create something totally new and original. Instead, she went with secret monsters that are in no way a secret.
The final flaw is the same that I had with the last few series that I have read. You have an otherwise strong female hero, but she's dependent on an older man to repeatedly save her. Why? Why can't she just be a badass character dependent on herself.
Xena was such an awesome character because she didn't need a savior. Sure, she had help occasionally, but she didn't rely on Hercules to save her in every episode.
And then there's Sasha's attraction to Nero. Cliche as hell. He's much older than her, in this case, by centuries. He's her boss and an actual father figure, in the sense that he actually helped raise her since she was three years old. Daddy issues are both gross and done to the point of being boring. Why can't these female characters fall for a guy their own age? Why is bedding your dad, or someone old enough to be your dad, part of the collective fantasies of women?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2018
This was another great installment of the series, easily the best one so far. We get to learn more about Sasha's past and part of her connection to Nero. She learns more about her powers and having awake visions. Baba Yaga comes calling for her favor. Ariel's got issues. Classmates are making Sasha's life hell anytime they run into her (and there's a connection between one of them and a character from previous books). Felix helps Sasha spy on Nero. Nero refuses to believe Sasha meant it when she quit and makes it difficult for her to find a job elsewhere. As always, the pacing is great. There is always something happening. The characters are interesting and entertaining, including all the secondary ones. My main criticism is that one of bad guys of the story backs off with pretty much a threat and a name drop. This seemed kinda easy after all the fight. But then I started thinking, what about the person who was name dropped was threatening enough to make them back off? This turned out to also be a good thing though, because it made me really want to keep reading the series to find this out (along with other things). While some stuff is resolved, there are some other things left to find out, which makes me even more anxious to see what happens in the next book. I didn't want to put it down. I would definitely recommend this series. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, gifted to me by the author, with no obligation.
June 24, 2025
Re-reading this because I remember loving the series way back when. Maybe it's the fact that I've been away from the urban fantasy genre for a while, but it just doesn't do it for me. It's better than the cover or its peers would suggest, but that isn't a high bar. The humor is great, and so is Sasha's magic-obsession, but her character is immature (as expected from a twenty-four year old, but I've read teenagers with more nuance) and falls flat at times, and Nero is practically a growly cardboard cut-out.
Frankly, the romance just doesn't do it for me - I get it, Sasha is sexually attracted to her boss, and (though I have never experienced such a thing) if various sources are to be believed, this is not an uncommon occurrence. And lust is lust, that wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing if my memory didn't tell me they were endgame. Yeah, Sasha's end relationship is with said boss, who was not only contractually-obligated by an agreement with her biological father to stalk her from childhood, yet was in no way forced to paint a picture of her in a skimpy bikini during said stalking before she had even met him. That is, ultimately, creepy. And there isn't even any good dialogue or interaction between the two to (attempt to) redeem their relationship - just sexual tension that culminates in sexual action that just ends up being a turn-off. Nor is there deep enough world-building or characters to distract me from these hell-chapters.
Frankly, the romance just doesn't do it for me - I get it, Sasha is sexually attracted to her boss, and (though I have never experienced such a thing) if various sources are to be believed, this is not an uncommon occurrence. And lust is lust, that wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing if my memory didn't tell me they were endgame. Yeah, Sasha's end relationship is with said boss, who was not only contractually-obligated by an agreement with her biological father to stalk her from childhood, yet was in no way forced to paint a picture of her in a skimpy bikini during said stalking before she had even met him. That is, ultimately, creepy. And there isn't even any good dialogue or interaction between the two to (attempt to) redeem their relationship - just sexual tension that culminates in sexual action that just ends up being a turn-off. Nor is there deep enough world-building or characters to distract me from these hell-chapters.
October 13, 2018
Another great instalment that left me screaming for more!
Sasha is at it again, this time having tons of time on her hands, being technically unemployed and stuff (which does not mean less Nero, his portion of the book, meaning, how he basically shows up only a few times for a few minutes, remained the same).
And this right here - Sasha - is what makes this book so great. There are many types of good female leads with different skill sets and overall character. Sasha is not much of a badass, not physically or even with, say, a gun. She is not even that much of a seer. What she is, is smart. Street smart and education smart. Drop her into a situation and with some luck and an occasional vision, she makes it out alive and kicking to tell the tale, rescuing her friends and pissing of her enemies in the process.
With her two roommates, and of course, Fluffy, the best domovi ever, she has all the help (and all the trouble) she needs to deal with the problem that turned out be Baba Yaga.
The Russian culture is a nice touch, particularly with me being Slavic and usually successfully decoding all the russian words and realia the author uses.
The third book confirmed what I already knew - this is one of the good stuff, the series that set the bar for this genre and I am so glad I found it.
Sasha is at it again, this time having tons of time on her hands, being technically unemployed and stuff (which does not mean less Nero, his portion of the book, meaning, how he basically shows up only a few times for a few minutes, remained the same).
And this right here - Sasha - is what makes this book so great. There are many types of good female leads with different skill sets and overall character. Sasha is not much of a badass, not physically or even with, say, a gun. She is not even that much of a seer. What she is, is smart. Street smart and education smart. Drop her into a situation and with some luck and an occasional vision, she makes it out alive and kicking to tell the tale, rescuing her friends and pissing of her enemies in the process.
With her two roommates, and of course, Fluffy, the best domovi ever, she has all the help (and all the trouble) she needs to deal with the problem that turned out be Baba Yaga.
The Russian culture is a nice touch, particularly with me being Slavic and usually successfully decoding all the russian words and realia the author uses.
The third book confirmed what I already knew - this is one of the good stuff, the series that set the bar for this genre and I am so glad I found it.
July 23, 2020
Getting Good and juicy now!!
*Semi-spoilers*
All look Sasha finds out who her father is, how she came to be at JFK hub and who set it up and WOWZA is it a doozy!! I like her, but she continues to piss me off in talking and thinking (often sarcastically) when she Should be paying attention. Or charging head first into things she know Nothing about (although not her fault as she is uneducated in Cognizant ways) yet getting defensive (due to pride) when given educated, appropriate guidance on how to deal with the problem but she ignored it and then when the situation didn't go how she liked, she got pissy!!
That 💋💋💋 was Hot and building up, but makes things complicated!! I'm happy Ariel is getting the help she needs finally, cuz that girl was starting to PISS me off, and I hope Vlad deals with Gaius (as as a camp He knew damn well what was going to happen and didn't care not one bit!) once he returns from Russia (hope he's still on the good side!). I hope things work out for Felix romantically but Perhaps not with the soon to be not underage girl given Their ages (wow Sasha/Alexandra u look good!!!!!) and constant drama surrounding them or well Sasha. Let's see what Darien does next!!
*Semi-spoilers*
All look Sasha finds out who her father is, how she came to be at JFK hub and who set it up and WOWZA is it a doozy!! I like her, but she continues to piss me off in talking and thinking (often sarcastically) when she Should be paying attention. Or charging head first into things she know Nothing about (although not her fault as she is uneducated in Cognizant ways) yet getting defensive (due to pride) when given educated, appropriate guidance on how to deal with the problem but she ignored it and then when the situation didn't go how she liked, she got pissy!!
That 💋💋💋 was Hot and building up, but makes things complicated!! I'm happy Ariel is getting the help she needs finally, cuz that girl was starting to PISS me off, and I hope Vlad deals with Gaius (as as a camp He knew damn well what was going to happen and didn't care not one bit!) once he returns from Russia (hope he's still on the good side!). I hope things work out for Felix romantically but Perhaps not with the soon to be not underage girl given Their ages (wow Sasha/Alexandra u look good!!!!!) and constant drama surrounding them or well Sasha. Let's see what Darien does next!!
January 9, 2020
As I'm all in with Book 3, I obviously like this series. This installment has lots of action and few flirty moments.
One of Sasha's past decisions has her facing an enemy that is older and stronger. Honestly, Sasha deserves it. She made dumb decisions and needed to learn a lesson.
Unfortunately, she seems to be getting dumber by the book. In one intense scene, they were running red lights on their way to save a friend, but instead of Sasha planning what to do when they arrive, she completes a card trick 🤦🏽♀️ In the speeding car! 🙄 Really???
The action scenes are some of the best of the series. Characters dont necessarily get developed but this book does bring to light a few secrets.
Sasha also has this very bad habit of telling every person she comes across her whole life story. She also spills secrets that aren't hers to tell. It is a another one of her dumb traits. It's a good thing she is brave and funny, otherwise I wouldn't care for her.
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
One of Sasha's past decisions has her facing an enemy that is older and stronger. Honestly, Sasha deserves it. She made dumb decisions and needed to learn a lesson.
Unfortunately, she seems to be getting dumber by the book. In one intense scene, they were running red lights on their way to save a friend, but instead of Sasha planning what to do when they arrive, she completes a card trick 🤦🏽♀️ In the speeding car! 🙄 Really???
The action scenes are some of the best of the series. Characters dont necessarily get developed but this book does bring to light a few secrets.
Sasha also has this very bad habit of telling every person she comes across her whole life story. She also spills secrets that aren't hers to tell. It is a another one of her dumb traits. It's a good thing she is brave and funny, otherwise I wouldn't care for her.
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 7, 2018
This series is spellbinding!
Sasha finds herself unemployed and unable to get a job because her former boss has blacklisted her! To make matters worse, a powerful witch calls in a favor and Sasha will never give her what she wants! But her refusal will put her and her friends in danger and there's only one man who can help her. A man who is dangerous and irresistible and who's not what he seems! I loved Sasha's new adventures! She's determined and strong! I also love her friends, Felix and Aria! We also learn more about Sasha's mysterious boss, Nero. The bad guys are scary but Sasha has friends and allies and will fight for her survival! This series has great world building and I can't wait to find out more in the next books.
Sasha finds herself unemployed and unable to get a job because her former boss has blacklisted her! To make matters worse, a powerful witch calls in a favor and Sasha will never give her what she wants! But her refusal will put her and her friends in danger and there's only one man who can help her. A man who is dangerous and irresistible and who's not what he seems! I loved Sasha's new adventures! She's determined and strong! I also love her friends, Felix and Aria! We also learn more about Sasha's mysterious boss, Nero. The bad guys are scary but Sasha has friends and allies and will fight for her survival! This series has great world building and I can't wait to find out more in the next books.
December 28, 2018
Non-stop action and some secrets revealed
This book takes place immediately after book 2. It is really just a continuation with both books taking place in less than a month's time. This book deals with aftermath of Sasha resignation from her job and Sasha's bargain with Baba Yaga. Felix, Rose, Vlad and Fluffster are consistent supporting characters in this one. I liked the expansion of these personalities. I found the imaginary dialog from Rose's cat Lucifer hilarious. Obviously the author is owned by a cat. The story has lots of action. Secrets are revealed at the end. The story will continue in book 4 and there is still much to resolve. Overall, I flew through this one and found it engaging and fun. Now I will wait for book 4.
This book takes place immediately after book 2. It is really just a continuation with both books taking place in less than a month's time. This book deals with aftermath of Sasha resignation from her job and Sasha's bargain with Baba Yaga. Felix, Rose, Vlad and Fluffster are consistent supporting characters in this one. I liked the expansion of these personalities. I found the imaginary dialog from Rose's cat Lucifer hilarious. Obviously the author is owned by a cat. The story has lots of action. Secrets are revealed at the end. The story will continue in book 4 and there is still much to resolve. Overall, I flew through this one and found it engaging and fun. Now I will wait for book 4.
October 9, 2018
Wow! I love Sasha! If you want to sleep then you better start this book earlier in the day. Make sure you read the first two by the way. This one picks up right where the second one leaves off.
Like the first two books this book was fast paced and keeps you wanting to read on and on. I didn’t want to put it down. I loved learning more about Sasha’s history. While the book is fast pace the romance is a slow burn. So if you love romance you will still be very happy with Sasha’s story. If you love fantasy.... you will love all Dima Zales books. He has such a talent for this genre!
Looking forward to book 4 and what new things we find out about Sasha.
Like the first two books this book was fast paced and keeps you wanting to read on and on. I didn’t want to put it down. I loved learning more about Sasha’s history. While the book is fast pace the romance is a slow burn. So if you love romance you will still be very happy with Sasha’s story. If you love fantasy.... you will love all Dima Zales books. He has such a talent for this genre!
Looking forward to book 4 and what new things we find out about Sasha.
September 4, 2021
I did not buy this series because I thought it would be mentally stimulating. I bought it because there were a lot of books in a genre I like cheap. With this book, I feel like I am getting exactly what I put into it.
The book was so unremarkable, having just finished it I can barely remember any of it.
The gist of the book:
Vampires are awesomesauce capable
Vampires are assholes by nature.
Baba-Yaga is a fool
Ariel is an addict
Nero has some serious issues
Sasha believes in herself.
Sasha Urban is an Anogram for Mary sue (I realize that's not true, the letters aren't right but that is how the story is progressing)
Time for a break from the series for a while.
The book was so unremarkable, having just finished it I can barely remember any of it.
The gist of the book:
Vampires are awesomesauce capable
Vampires are assholes by nature.
Baba-Yaga is a fool
Ariel is an addict
Nero has some serious issues
Sasha believes in herself.
Sasha Urban is an Anogram for Mary sue (I realize that's not true, the letters aren't right but that is how the story is progressing)
Time for a break from the series for a while.
February 22, 2020
Reading the first two books to get to this one was worth it! Most of the issues I had with them are practically nonexistent here.
Sasha's character is much more believable. She's starting to get an understanding of her power. A mistake leads to a better understanding of her roommates' personalities, and some open questions are finally resolved. As an added bonus, those resolutions leave a lot of room for future developments.
The author seems to be learning as they go, as this series is getting better. It's definitely one I'll keep reading.
Sasha's character is much more believable. She's starting to get an understanding of her power. A mistake leads to a better understanding of her roommates' personalities, and some open questions are finally resolved. As an added bonus, those resolutions leave a lot of room for future developments.
The author seems to be learning as they go, as this series is getting better. It's definitely one I'll keep reading.
November 25, 2018
Stay'n Alive! Stay'n Alive!
Sasha and friends struggle to solve the mysteries surrounding her origins. Baba Yaga has called in the favor and it's a dusey. She finds out more about her past as she fights to save her friend. Will she have to play her trump card? I like the action, humor, and possible romance. Sasha's character is compelling and strong willed. This is a great series and this book brings a lot of loose ends together. I look forward to the next book.
Sasha and friends struggle to solve the mysteries surrounding her origins. Baba Yaga has called in the favor and it's a dusey. She finds out more about her past as she fights to save her friend. Will she have to play her trump card? I like the action, humor, and possible romance. Sasha's character is compelling and strong willed. This is a great series and this book brings a lot of loose ends together. I look forward to the next book.
March 11, 2020
I liked book one and I liked book two. Book three I like also but in kind of a different way. Much more sci-fi than paranormal at this point but the characters are still well-developed and very clear in their intent for the most part. You always have that one or two character that's going to shock you which it does here. I would definitely recommend these books to even people who are not sci-fi fans. I would call it paranormal sci-fi light. Lol but I do recommend the book
November 3, 2021
Whoa!
Wow! This part in the Sasha series has several truths revealed and shocking disclaimers. We find out who her father is and it is shocking. We learn why her best friend is mad dashing in and out of the apartment. We see Sasha cleverly elude the Russian witch. Very creative and imaginative scenes that keep this story alive and thriving. Especially those shocking moments. I’m in love with this series.
Wow! This part in the Sasha series has several truths revealed and shocking disclaimers. We find out who her father is and it is shocking. We learn why her best friend is mad dashing in and out of the apartment. We see Sasha cleverly elude the Russian witch. Very creative and imaginative scenes that keep this story alive and thriving. Especially those shocking moments. I’m in love with this series.
September 7, 2020
Nero or Baba Yaga, which one is the lesser evil?
In this third book Sasha has to make some difficult decisions. With the help of Rose, Vlad, Felix and her special chinchilla/house protector she is able to make it thru. She finally realizes she needs Nero’s help. But what would be the cost?
In this third book Sasha has to make some difficult decisions. With the help of Rose, Vlad, Felix and her special chinchilla/house protector she is able to make it thru. She finally realizes she needs Nero’s help. But what would be the cost?
October 12, 2018
Ow! That hurt.
This book is a fast forward crazy awesome mind trip and I just turned the last page- only to get whiplash from the completely unexpected last page. Read at your own risk.
This book is a fast forward crazy awesome mind trip and I just turned the last page- only to get whiplash from the completely unexpected last page. Read at your own risk.
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