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Aces High, Jokers Wild #4
Aces and Eights
The 2157The change everythingSeven Corporations control what was the United States of America. The food supply and its production is controlled by American AgCo. All agricultural seeds in the United States have been genetically designed to fail outside Corporate control. At least, that’s what the Corporations say.
There’s a rumor that a seed bank has survived the destabilization that brought down old America, and the seventy-five years of Corporate ownership that followed. If it still exists, it would provide free, accessible food for the Democratic State Force and everyone in their care. It’s a risky hunt for a treasure that may or may not exist. Something to put the most resourceful team in the Force to work on. The Wildcards just got the call.
A hunt for hidden treasure.
Free food.
What could go wrong?
Never ask that question. Life’s a bitch. She’ll answer.
There’s a rumor that a seed bank has survived the destabilization that brought down old America, and the seventy-five years of Corporate ownership that followed. If it still exists, it would provide free, accessible food for the Democratic State Force and everyone in their care. It’s a risky hunt for a treasure that may or may not exist. Something to put the most resourceful team in the Force to work on. The Wildcards just got the call.
A hunt for hidden treasure.
Free food.
What could go wrong?
Never ask that question. Life’s a bitch. She’ll answer.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2020
2 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
O.E. Tearmann
22 books61 followersBringing their own experiences as a marginalized author to the page with flawed but genuine characters, O.E. Tearmann’s work has been described as “Firefly for the dystopian genre.”
Tearmann is a member of the Science Fiction Writers of America, the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, a finalist for the Cygnus award and the winner of the 2022 Feathered Quill award. They live in Colorado with two cats, their partner, and the belief that individuals can make humanity better through small actions. In their spare time, they teach workshops on writing GLTBQ characters, plant gardens that showcase sustainable agricultural practices, and play too many video games.
Tearmann is a member of the Science Fiction Writers of America, the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, a finalist for the Cygnus award and the winner of the 2022 Feathered Quill award. They live in Colorado with two cats, their partner, and the belief that individuals can make humanity better through small actions. In their spare time, they teach workshops on writing GLTBQ characters, plant gardens that showcase sustainable agricultural practices, and play too many video games.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 12, 2023
This series is the most inclusive, diverse and so much speculative science applications. I have seen so far this year. I am so glad goodreads reviewers recommend this book.
May 2, 2022
The best series of the year, Aces High Jokers Wild, is back, and still punching hard in this 4th book, Aces and Eights, so if you haven’t start reading this series, do yourself a favor and grab book 1, book 2, book 3, this book and the rest of the series now, because you don’t want to not read this. Our reviews of all the books are here, and do check what other people have said about this amazing, breath-taking series by O. E. Tearmann on Goodreads. Truly phenomenal.
Read all the reviews of the previous books here
So! To the review!
Book 4 starts with butt slaps, giggles and, yes, butt slaps, you read it correctly, and a party! And it’s heart-warming to read the Wildcards having so much fun, and pranking the birthday boy, all day. Even Tweak was happy, lol, but not long will pass until we start to mentally say our goodbyes to Topher because he is going to be massacred by Tweak. Poor guy, so young to die. May the Lord have mercy upon the remnants of his corpse. Hahahah, lol. You will get the joke once you read the book.
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
There are lots of romantic (and sex) scenes from the start of the book, and the light atmosphere tucks us into our seats ,making us totally comfortable with all the soft progress that the Wildcards are making. Tweak is smiling more, Yvonne and Sarah are always together and making pranks, Topher is… well…. you’ll read, and Janice’s cursing everything and everyone under high-heaven because she’s Janice. Will it stay this way for long? You bet it won’t, but more on that later.
There is now a strong focus on Kevin as the plot develops around him. We get to know him, his past, his role in the Cavanaugh’s Corporation, his enemies and his parents from a new angle and it’s interesting to read layers of him that we didn’t know existed. The thing is: this focus has a reason, that we will find out as we read, but on the beginning of the book, one thing can be said, for sure: The heat is doubled on his ass, and this has nothing to do with Aidan.
When the action and the thriller comes, they come with attack teams out of nowhere, compromised missions, runaways, bullets for everybody, (Tweak saving most people’s lives while calling them shitheads and competing in terms of cursing with Janice), and lots of blood is spilled. Expect people dying and you won’t be disappointed, because the corps are attacking three times as much and things are ten times as difficult, so yeah.
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
Trauma, torture, psychological warfare and PTSD shown in crude words raising the hairs on the back of our necks. Readers are warned. It’s …uffh, deep, powerful, graphic and the writers open your mind to many possibilities by telling these things in a way that you feel connected and understand what’s happening and the damaged done.
And between all the gut twisting tension and all the fast-paced scenes that leave you pulling your hairs out, you get much needed brakes. Much needed because if the authors decided to simply continue with the scenes of thriller and action, well, we were going to faint, or have a heart-attack, hahahahha. To show you the level of tension that this book has, the authors had the audacity, the nerve, to cite in Monty Phyton during a thriller scene to make things lighter. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHHAHHAHAHAAHAHA! Ohhhhhhhh man, that was priceless! Hahahahhahahahha. Oh my god, ahahhahhhahahahaah. Ten points for Gryffindor, hahhahhahahahaha.
I think that the writers gave us the romantic elements early on because we won’t have much of that in the rest of the book, (well, we do have Billie, but that’s another story)
Something that we have been noticing for quite a while now in the narrative of O. E. Tearmann is that, the body language reactions of the characters are so detailed, so well put, and so well timed that it looks like both writers stopped, made a brainstorming session about the better suited body movements to use as reaction that created an almost cinematic imagery behind our eyes, because this is perfect, too perfect. It’s beautiful. Excellently done right here.
“Aidan was silent beside him for a beat. Then soft fingers tipped his chin up. “Kev? Look at me, okay?” Wearily, Kevin opened his eyes. In the dim light, the worry lines between Aidan’s brows had deepened. He held Kevin’s eyes. “Don’t do this to yourself.” Kevin looked away, closing his eyes. “I’ve got the alarm set. Let’s talk in the morning.” ”
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
O. E. Tearmann sprinkled the book with weird, quirky analogies that will make you laugh and think: “wau, I will add this one on my vocabulary”, and yes, the include curses from Janice as well, like “go fuck a frag granade”, ahhahahhahaha. Oh Janice, we love you so much.
Once again, the authors made precious, solid, and heavy arguments on moral points when it comes to treating people, dealing with enemies and keeping one’s integrity in the face of harsh circumstances.
“ And today, the news is full of arrests and threat reports and trials. Have you noticed why?” he asked, voice unnervingly calm, like a teacher giving a lesson.
Ezra shrugged again, staring at his meal. “Don’t particularly care, if I’m honest.”
“Kev,” Aidan warned, but Kevin went right on, eyeing their companion coldly. “Most people don’t. Because what does it matter compared to how you’re going to eat tomorrow and when your rent is due?” he asked rhetorically. “But that’s the problem. You see, they’ve given you an enemy to hate. They’ve given you something to fear and to fight; the perverse, the Other. Because what does it matter that there are no more civil rights, that shareholders and corporations run our lives, when there’s threats out there? Threats like two girls in love or someone planting apple trees.” he affected an expression of sarcastically exaggerated horror. “And of course, that’s what you focus on, these horrible crimes that the media keeps telling you about. Because while you’re fighting the terrorists and the immigrants and the ‘fags’, you’re not thinking. And if you ever had the time to start thinking, you might wonder why it’s illegal to collect rainwater, why your Standing dictates the quality of food you’re allowed to buy, why there’s no such thing as upward mobility in the culture we’ve got and absolutely no way for us to make legitimate complaints. You might start noticing the bars on your cage, if you weren’t given something ‘better’ to fret over.” “
How powerful is this?! Oh my god. Love it, love it, love it!
Ok, Naomi is fully integrated in the crew, as you discovered on book three, and she is the new mother-hen (with guns, explosives and a laser-like stare that melts steel) and it’s soooooooooooooo freaking cuuuuuuuuuuuuuute! *screams*. Seriously, Naomi is the warmest, and deadliest, character in this book. Imagine this, if you haven’t yet read book 3: Janice, in full rage, fused with the coldness of Kevin when he is mad, and the warmth of Aidan with the mother-like abilities of Andrea, and the seriousness of Damian. Yep! That! And who is she taking under her bionic wing? You would not believe me if I told you, so you better read it yourself, and it’s super-duper cute.
“Liza held her eyes longer than she would have expected. But she wasn’t winning this. Naomi had learned this game in childhood. Never look down. Never look away. Never let people think you can be cowed. I used to stare down a guy who broke bones with his bare hands, honey. Give it up. When Liza did look away, she bit her lip, glancing from Blake to Janice. Janice gave the stare-down a try next. She held Naomi’s eyes steadily. Now there was somebody who’d been through the same school Naomi had. Hell, she was the professor.”
Love this book. Love this series. Love these authors. Love this story. Love every page, not only for the tension, not only for the dynamics of the character, not only for the originality of the story, for the immersiveness of it all, the couplesand the ways they just… become, it’s…. (*play a Keanu meme*) breathtaking!
This book, this series, these writers are solid gold. OMG!
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
Oh, a tip: Pay attention to the chapter titles *winks*.
Ok, not a fan of Cyberpunk, but you really want a reason to read this book, right? Ok. Here’s the deal: Fantasy! There are elements of Fantasy on this book, so, if you like to read about magical stuff, while still making perfect sense inside Scifi, this series will please you, or at least, this book, lol.
This book touches so many chords in us, we feel so understood, honestly loved and guided by the gentle hands of the authors. This is a book series that readers, once they give it a chance, will find that it’s not just a set of books that they want, but that they need, and that ending, oh, god, fucking priceless! Priceless!
Pros:
Flawless continuation of book 3
Excellent plot
Excellent character dynamics and evolution. You can see the sutble changes that the characters went through over time. They are adapting and it shows, progressively.
Excellent stability of behaviour when it comes to each character while also being able to show new traits and sides of the same characters. Impressive. Most impressive.
Excellent romance scenes
Breath-taking demonstration of trauma and demonstrations of the physical and mental healing and coping mechanisms relating to trauma, abuse, and PTSD. Simply jaw-dropping good work. Gripping
Unpredictable plot and scenes all over
Nerve-wrecking thriller scenes
The humor is out of this world
A completely addictive read
Cons:
None.
~
Lesson of the book: Never leave Naomi out of a mission on Grid
Favorite Characters: Janice (of course), Tweak, Naomi
Cover Score: 9.4/10
Book Score: 9.4/10
Read all the reviews of the previous books here
So! To the review!
Book 4 starts with butt slaps, giggles and, yes, butt slaps, you read it correctly, and a party! And it’s heart-warming to read the Wildcards having so much fun, and pranking the birthday boy, all day. Even Tweak was happy, lol, but not long will pass until we start to mentally say our goodbyes to Topher because he is going to be massacred by Tweak. Poor guy, so young to die. May the Lord have mercy upon the remnants of his corpse. Hahahah, lol. You will get the joke once you read the book.
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
There are lots of romantic (and sex) scenes from the start of the book, and the light atmosphere tucks us into our seats ,making us totally comfortable with all the soft progress that the Wildcards are making. Tweak is smiling more, Yvonne and Sarah are always together and making pranks, Topher is… well…. you’ll read, and Janice’s cursing everything and everyone under high-heaven because she’s Janice. Will it stay this way for long? You bet it won’t, but more on that later.
There is now a strong focus on Kevin as the plot develops around him. We get to know him, his past, his role in the Cavanaugh’s Corporation, his enemies and his parents from a new angle and it’s interesting to read layers of him that we didn’t know existed. The thing is: this focus has a reason, that we will find out as we read, but on the beginning of the book, one thing can be said, for sure: The heat is doubled on his ass, and this has nothing to do with Aidan.
When the action and the thriller comes, they come with attack teams out of nowhere, compromised missions, runaways, bullets for everybody, (Tweak saving most people’s lives while calling them shitheads and competing in terms of cursing with Janice), and lots of blood is spilled. Expect people dying and you won’t be disappointed, because the corps are attacking three times as much and things are ten times as difficult, so yeah.
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
Trauma, torture, psychological warfare and PTSD shown in crude words raising the hairs on the back of our necks. Readers are warned. It’s …uffh, deep, powerful, graphic and the writers open your mind to many possibilities by telling these things in a way that you feel connected and understand what’s happening and the damaged done.
And between all the gut twisting tension and all the fast-paced scenes that leave you pulling your hairs out, you get much needed brakes. Much needed because if the authors decided to simply continue with the scenes of thriller and action, well, we were going to faint, or have a heart-attack, hahahahha. To show you the level of tension that this book has, the authors had the audacity, the nerve, to cite in Monty Phyton during a thriller scene to make things lighter. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHHAHHAHAHAAHAHA! Ohhhhhhhh man, that was priceless! Hahahahhahahahha. Oh my god, ahahhahhhahahahaah. Ten points for Gryffindor, hahhahhahahahaha.
I think that the writers gave us the romantic elements early on because we won’t have much of that in the rest of the book, (well, we do have Billie, but that’s another story)
Something that we have been noticing for quite a while now in the narrative of O. E. Tearmann is that, the body language reactions of the characters are so detailed, so well put, and so well timed that it looks like both writers stopped, made a brainstorming session about the better suited body movements to use as reaction that created an almost cinematic imagery behind our eyes, because this is perfect, too perfect. It’s beautiful. Excellently done right here.
“Aidan was silent beside him for a beat. Then soft fingers tipped his chin up. “Kev? Look at me, okay?” Wearily, Kevin opened his eyes. In the dim light, the worry lines between Aidan’s brows had deepened. He held Kevin’s eyes. “Don’t do this to yourself.” Kevin looked away, closing his eyes. “I’ve got the alarm set. Let’s talk in the morning.” ”
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
O. E. Tearmann sprinkled the book with weird, quirky analogies that will make you laugh and think: “wau, I will add this one on my vocabulary”, and yes, the include curses from Janice as well, like “go fuck a frag granade”, ahhahahhahaha. Oh Janice, we love you so much.
Once again, the authors made precious, solid, and heavy arguments on moral points when it comes to treating people, dealing with enemies and keeping one’s integrity in the face of harsh circumstances.
“ And today, the news is full of arrests and threat reports and trials. Have you noticed why?” he asked, voice unnervingly calm, like a teacher giving a lesson.
Ezra shrugged again, staring at his meal. “Don’t particularly care, if I’m honest.”
“Kev,” Aidan warned, but Kevin went right on, eyeing their companion coldly. “Most people don’t. Because what does it matter compared to how you’re going to eat tomorrow and when your rent is due?” he asked rhetorically. “But that’s the problem. You see, they’ve given you an enemy to hate. They’ve given you something to fear and to fight; the perverse, the Other. Because what does it matter that there are no more civil rights, that shareholders and corporations run our lives, when there’s threats out there? Threats like two girls in love or someone planting apple trees.” he affected an expression of sarcastically exaggerated horror. “And of course, that’s what you focus on, these horrible crimes that the media keeps telling you about. Because while you’re fighting the terrorists and the immigrants and the ‘fags’, you’re not thinking. And if you ever had the time to start thinking, you might wonder why it’s illegal to collect rainwater, why your Standing dictates the quality of food you’re allowed to buy, why there’s no such thing as upward mobility in the culture we’ve got and absolutely no way for us to make legitimate complaints. You might start noticing the bars on your cage, if you weren’t given something ‘better’ to fret over.” “
How powerful is this?! Oh my god. Love it, love it, love it!
Ok, Naomi is fully integrated in the crew, as you discovered on book three, and she is the new mother-hen (with guns, explosives and a laser-like stare that melts steel) and it’s soooooooooooooo freaking cuuuuuuuuuuuuuute! *screams*. Seriously, Naomi is the warmest, and deadliest, character in this book. Imagine this, if you haven’t yet read book 3: Janice, in full rage, fused with the coldness of Kevin when he is mad, and the warmth of Aidan with the mother-like abilities of Andrea, and the seriousness of Damian. Yep! That! And who is she taking under her bionic wing? You would not believe me if I told you, so you better read it yourself, and it’s super-duper cute.
“Liza held her eyes longer than she would have expected. But she wasn’t winning this. Naomi had learned this game in childhood. Never look down. Never look away. Never let people think you can be cowed. I used to stare down a guy who broke bones with his bare hands, honey. Give it up. When Liza did look away, she bit her lip, glancing from Blake to Janice. Janice gave the stare-down a try next. She held Naomi’s eyes steadily. Now there was somebody who’d been through the same school Naomi had. Hell, she was the professor.”
Love this book. Love this series. Love these authors. Love this story. Love every page, not only for the tension, not only for the dynamics of the character, not only for the originality of the story, for the immersiveness of it all, the couplesand the ways they just… become, it’s…. (*play a Keanu meme*) breathtaking!
This book, this series, these writers are solid gold. OMG!
Ebook // Paperback // See on Goodreads
Oh, a tip: Pay attention to the chapter titles *winks*.
Ok, not a fan of Cyberpunk, but you really want a reason to read this book, right? Ok. Here’s the deal: Fantasy! There are elements of Fantasy on this book, so, if you like to read about magical stuff, while still making perfect sense inside Scifi, this series will please you, or at least, this book, lol.
This book touches so many chords in us, we feel so understood, honestly loved and guided by the gentle hands of the authors. This is a book series that readers, once they give it a chance, will find that it’s not just a set of books that they want, but that they need, and that ending, oh, god, fucking priceless! Priceless!
Pros:
Flawless continuation of book 3
Excellent plot
Excellent character dynamics and evolution. You can see the sutble changes that the characters went through over time. They are adapting and it shows, progressively.
Excellent stability of behaviour when it comes to each character while also being able to show new traits and sides of the same characters. Impressive. Most impressive.
Excellent romance scenes
Breath-taking demonstration of trauma and demonstrations of the physical and mental healing and coping mechanisms relating to trauma, abuse, and PTSD. Simply jaw-dropping good work. Gripping
Unpredictable plot and scenes all over
Nerve-wrecking thriller scenes
The humor is out of this world
A completely addictive read
Cons:
None.
~
Lesson of the book: Never leave Naomi out of a mission on Grid
Favorite Characters: Janice (of course), Tweak, Naomi
Cover Score: 9.4/10
Book Score: 9.4/10
September 24, 2022
Aces and Eights by O.E. Tearmann
Aces High, Jokers Wild #4
Every book in this series has pulled at my heartstrings, made me think about our world now and how it could change as dramatically as it has in this dystopian world, and has made me care about the characters and the future of earth.
Having gardened, been part of a tomato seed group online and shared seeds with others, planted seeds that did not grow that were perhaps modified by companies, and harvested from trees, plants and vines…this book definitely hit home.
What I liked:
* The Wildcards…all of them!
* Aidan: base commander who has come into his own, trans, undergoes transformative surgery early in this book, in a relationship with Kevin, admired by many, a great leader, has a difficult time in this book
* Kevin: logistics officer, genetically altered to higher corporate standards, history buff, capable, good for and with Aidan
* The seed theme and importance in this book…really hit home
* The way the team is like a family and dedicated not only to their military goals but also to one another
* The budding romance between Topher and Billie
* The admiration more than one has for the Wildcards and how it is expressed
* The connection that develops between the Wildcards and Coomb Olwen
* The Pagan tie-in and the general acceptance of a variety of religions in the series
* The alternative medicine option used to heal one character that was dealing with PTSD after torture
* The open mindedness found on the Wildcards base
* The way the relationship between Aidan and Kevin has developed…really admire this couple
* Wondering what the next book in the series will be about – can’t wait!
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like: Ezra, the bounty hunters, those willing to kill and torture, the brainwashing and fear used by the corporations in charge, etc
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley, Amphibian Press and Books Forward for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Aces High, Jokers Wild #4
Every book in this series has pulled at my heartstrings, made me think about our world now and how it could change as dramatically as it has in this dystopian world, and has made me care about the characters and the future of earth.
Having gardened, been part of a tomato seed group online and shared seeds with others, planted seeds that did not grow that were perhaps modified by companies, and harvested from trees, plants and vines…this book definitely hit home.
What I liked:
* The Wildcards…all of them!
* Aidan: base commander who has come into his own, trans, undergoes transformative surgery early in this book, in a relationship with Kevin, admired by many, a great leader, has a difficult time in this book
* Kevin: logistics officer, genetically altered to higher corporate standards, history buff, capable, good for and with Aidan
* The seed theme and importance in this book…really hit home
* The way the team is like a family and dedicated not only to their military goals but also to one another
* The budding romance between Topher and Billie
* The admiration more than one has for the Wildcards and how it is expressed
* The connection that develops between the Wildcards and Coomb Olwen
* The Pagan tie-in and the general acceptance of a variety of religions in the series
* The alternative medicine option used to heal one character that was dealing with PTSD after torture
* The open mindedness found on the Wildcards base
* The way the relationship between Aidan and Kevin has developed…really admire this couple
* Wondering what the next book in the series will be about – can’t wait!
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like: Ezra, the bounty hunters, those willing to kill and torture, the brainwashing and fear used by the corporations in charge, etc
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley, Amphibian Press and Books Forward for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
May 16, 2020
ACES HIGH, JOKERS WILD series has a new installment, and holy crap, is it intense.
I got hooked on this series last year. These books take place in an alternate universe, post-fracture United States where huge corporations have become dictatorships in place of a central government. Freedom fighters who cling to a democratic way of life are working to bring down the system, hacking supplies, intelligence, and equipment in order to survive and stay hidden.
It’s a freaking wild ride this far, and Aces and Eights is no exception. This book starts out with a gentle reprieve from the deadly intensity of the last mission as Aiden is finally able to complete his surgical transition. He and Kevin get to spend some much-needed time alone as he recovers before they must jump right into their next mission: an endeavor that may permanently solve the base’s food supply issues and make them less reliant on risky seizures of Corporate shipments. An ambush sends the mission spiraling out of control, and betrayal is hiding in the shadows everywhere they turn for help. When Aidan is captured by one of the Corporations and tortured to give up information about the hidden base, Kevin and the rest of the team must rescue him before it’s too late…but Aidan may wish for death instead of rescue before the Corporation is done with him.
HO-LEE CRAP. This was probably the most incredible, brutal adventure yet and I had to stop reading to catch my breath a couple of times. I thought for a minute, aww, this is going to be a welcome character development book with a minor adventure at first, but then BANG! (cue O.E. Tearmann’s maniacal laughter: YOU ONLY THOUGHT THIS WAS GONNA BE EASY, HAMILL.)
One of the things I love the most about this series are the characters’ relationships with each other. They truly are a team, a family, and are inextricably meshed cogs in a machine that might fall apart if any one element is removed. They work so well together because they believe in each other, support each other, and rip new assholes when it’s needed.
O.E. Tearmann (actually a team of talented writers) unflinchingly faces the reality of chronic, severe depression seen through Aidan’s eyes in all these books. There’s no magic pill even in the future to make it go away despite the medical miracles Corporate technology can provide, and I think that is a huge thing to acknowledge. The understanding no one can, or should, go through it alone is important here. It takes a community to heal, whether that community be blood or found family.
The diversity of the cast is not just apparent in cultural and LGBTQIA representation, but in neurodivergent characters as well. I am so excited to see hacker Tweak settling into her new family and growing with the help of medications and counseling.
With all these subtly nuanced characters, Tearmann creates a compelling, breathlessly exciting series of books which have not yet failed to disappoint me. I especially loved the interlude in a pagan community in the mountains. If Coomb Olwen is taking applications for residency, sign me up. And OMG. The end. ALL THE FEELS. Somebody read these so we can squee together.
While this book took a bit of a different track, I personally think Tearmann is just lulling us with a false sense of security until they rip my heart out and staple it back together again. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the Wildcards’ next installment.
I got hooked on this series last year. These books take place in an alternate universe, post-fracture United States where huge corporations have become dictatorships in place of a central government. Freedom fighters who cling to a democratic way of life are working to bring down the system, hacking supplies, intelligence, and equipment in order to survive and stay hidden.
It’s a freaking wild ride this far, and Aces and Eights is no exception. This book starts out with a gentle reprieve from the deadly intensity of the last mission as Aiden is finally able to complete his surgical transition. He and Kevin get to spend some much-needed time alone as he recovers before they must jump right into their next mission: an endeavor that may permanently solve the base’s food supply issues and make them less reliant on risky seizures of Corporate shipments. An ambush sends the mission spiraling out of control, and betrayal is hiding in the shadows everywhere they turn for help. When Aidan is captured by one of the Corporations and tortured to give up information about the hidden base, Kevin and the rest of the team must rescue him before it’s too late…but Aidan may wish for death instead of rescue before the Corporation is done with him.
HO-LEE CRAP. This was probably the most incredible, brutal adventure yet and I had to stop reading to catch my breath a couple of times. I thought for a minute, aww, this is going to be a welcome character development book with a minor adventure at first, but then BANG! (cue O.E. Tearmann’s maniacal laughter: YOU ONLY THOUGHT THIS WAS GONNA BE EASY, HAMILL.)
One of the things I love the most about this series are the characters’ relationships with each other. They truly are a team, a family, and are inextricably meshed cogs in a machine that might fall apart if any one element is removed. They work so well together because they believe in each other, support each other, and rip new assholes when it’s needed.
O.E. Tearmann (actually a team of talented writers) unflinchingly faces the reality of chronic, severe depression seen through Aidan’s eyes in all these books. There’s no magic pill even in the future to make it go away despite the medical miracles Corporate technology can provide, and I think that is a huge thing to acknowledge. The understanding no one can, or should, go through it alone is important here. It takes a community to heal, whether that community be blood or found family.
The diversity of the cast is not just apparent in cultural and LGBTQIA representation, but in neurodivergent characters as well. I am so excited to see hacker Tweak settling into her new family and growing with the help of medications and counseling.
With all these subtly nuanced characters, Tearmann creates a compelling, breathlessly exciting series of books which have not yet failed to disappoint me. I especially loved the interlude in a pagan community in the mountains. If Coomb Olwen is taking applications for residency, sign me up. And OMG. The end. ALL THE FEELS. Somebody read these so we can squee together.
While this book took a bit of a different track, I personally think Tearmann is just lulling us with a false sense of security until they rip my heart out and staple it back together again. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the Wildcards’ next installment.
May 16, 2020
ACES HIGH, JOKERS WILD 4: Aces and Eights - The Corporations Strike Back!
While it is always useful to learn more of a constructed setting and see characters 'off the clock,' far too often it is 'side-stories' that will kill a series; the narrative drifts away from the main arc of a series to dawdle on these secondary plots like a distracted gamer fixating on side-quests and never managing to reach the game's finish before losing interest. Thankfully however, Aces and Eights, the fourth installment of O.E.Tearmann's Aces High, Jokers Wild series avoids this pitfall just as adroitly as it managed to avoid a third-installment stumble with Raise the Stakes.
All that glitters is not gold, if a job seemed to easy it was, and if you play with fire you will eventually get burned. The Wildcards dealt a grave blow to their dystopian enemies in their last adventure - but just as blowing up the Death Star did not win the Rebellion for the Rebel Alliance, nor did that victory prove a mortal stroke against future-America's neo-feudal overlords. When a lead lands on the Base that is too good to pass on, the Wildcards set out on a treasure hunt that will test them more direly than any 'on the clock' mission they've yet faced . Their flaws and foibles will come back to haunt them - and their darkest hour will drive them to truly awe-inspiring and utterly mad extremes....
As with the rest of the series, if you are overly-disaffected by explicit LGBT relations, or explicit relations in general, you may wish to proceed with caution, and be aware that I do not use the term 'darkest hour' above lightly. Call the Bluff showed us the depravity of the Corporations on a grand scale, but Aces and Eights hits us on a far more-intimate level. Sensitive reader discretion is advised. For the rest of us though, Aces and Eights is an enjoyable story that both expands our knowledge of O.E. Tearmann's world, puts our already-harrowed heroes through the wringer like never before, and climaxes with a jaw-dropping bombshell that I will not spoil but that fans of the series should definitely not miss!
While it is always useful to learn more of a constructed setting and see characters 'off the clock,' far too often it is 'side-stories' that will kill a series; the narrative drifts away from the main arc of a series to dawdle on these secondary plots like a distracted gamer fixating on side-quests and never managing to reach the game's finish before losing interest. Thankfully however, Aces and Eights, the fourth installment of O.E.Tearmann's Aces High, Jokers Wild series avoids this pitfall just as adroitly as it managed to avoid a third-installment stumble with Raise the Stakes.
All that glitters is not gold, if a job seemed to easy it was, and if you play with fire you will eventually get burned. The Wildcards dealt a grave blow to their dystopian enemies in their last adventure - but just as blowing up the Death Star did not win the Rebellion for the Rebel Alliance, nor did that victory prove a mortal stroke against future-America's neo-feudal overlords. When a lead lands on the Base that is too good to pass on, the Wildcards set out on a treasure hunt that will test them more direly than any 'on the clock' mission they've yet faced . Their flaws and foibles will come back to haunt them - and their darkest hour will drive them to truly awe-inspiring and utterly mad extremes....
As with the rest of the series, if you are overly-disaffected by explicit LGBT relations, or explicit relations in general, you may wish to proceed with caution, and be aware that I do not use the term 'darkest hour' above lightly. Call the Bluff showed us the depravity of the Corporations on a grand scale, but Aces and Eights hits us on a far more-intimate level. Sensitive reader discretion is advised. For the rest of us though, Aces and Eights is an enjoyable story that both expands our knowledge of O.E. Tearmann's world, puts our already-harrowed heroes through the wringer like never before, and climaxes with a jaw-dropping bombshell that I will not spoil but that fans of the series should definitely not miss!
May 23, 2020
Where to even begin!! This series has been one intense ride after another. The Wildcards are a ragtag team, but more than that, a family. You can see it and feel it, in their interactions with each other.
In this fourth installment of the Aces High Jokers Wild series, the stakes are just as high, but reach a more personal level, with danger being more intimate.
The diversity of the characters is refreshing and beautiful to see, in this futuristic world, especially as they fight to make things better. I love seeing their relationships develop and grow, especially Tweak.
I've grown rather fond of all these characters, throughout the series...more than I ever expected, but so glad I gave them a try. With all the feels, and roller coaster of emotions in this book, I cannot wait to see what happens next with this beloved team/family.
In this fourth installment of the Aces High Jokers Wild series, the stakes are just as high, but reach a more personal level, with danger being more intimate.
The diversity of the characters is refreshing and beautiful to see, in this futuristic world, especially as they fight to make things better. I love seeing their relationships develop and grow, especially Tweak.
I've grown rather fond of all these characters, throughout the series...more than I ever expected, but so glad I gave them a try. With all the feels, and roller coaster of emotions in this book, I cannot wait to see what happens next with this beloved team/family.
August 28, 2022
This review is for the audiobook.
I really love this series and Aidan, Kevin, and the rest of the Wildcards, but I didn't enjoy this book/audiobook quite as much as the others. Perhaps it was limiting the story to just a few of the base characters for most of the book, maybe it was the mysticism stuff that didn't really resonate with me, IDK. Also, not so many laughs or banter in this one. It's still good, just not as good, and while I liked seeing Aidan face and overcome his demons, it felt like Kevin did not get the same closure with his. I am not sure if this is the last book, but I hope not. There is still so much to tell. I loved the ending, and Blake's rather sacrilegious impersonation, though. The Aces truly deserved that excuse to party.
As a note, pay attention to the trigger warnings. There is physical and psychological torture here, and it is very painful, even if you think it will all work out.
The narration by Kirt Graves is awesome. He does such a great job voicing the characters' emotions. It will make you smile, shiver, maybe cry, and rejoice before you're through.
I received a free copy of this audiobook through StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I really love this series and Aidan, Kevin, and the rest of the Wildcards, but I didn't enjoy this book/audiobook quite as much as the others. Perhaps it was limiting the story to just a few of the base characters for most of the book, maybe it was the mysticism stuff that didn't really resonate with me, IDK. Also, not so many laughs or banter in this one. It's still good, just not as good, and while I liked seeing Aidan face and overcome his demons, it felt like Kevin did not get the same closure with his. I am not sure if this is the last book, but I hope not. There is still so much to tell. I loved the ending, and Blake's rather sacrilegious impersonation, though. The Aces truly deserved that excuse to party.
As a note, pay attention to the trigger warnings. There is physical and psychological torture here, and it is very painful, even if you think it will all work out.
The narration by Kirt Graves is awesome. He does such a great job voicing the characters' emotions. It will make you smile, shiver, maybe cry, and rejoice before you're through.
I received a free copy of this audiobook through StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
March 10, 2023
This book is the 4th in the series and I think it’s my favourite so far. The Wildcards are back adventuring and taking crazy risks to make a difference in a scarily believable dystopian universe. The world of the Wildcards is really well crafted and captures the imagination of the reader.
The team are fantastic. I love how sweet Kev is and Tweak is an incredibly precocious and talented spitfire. In this book though I really loved Aiden, he’s always been on a journey but his strength and bravery in this book is endearing and so moving. I’m excited to see what the next part of his journey holds for him.
The plot is uniquely Wildcard territory and no spoilers just start the series and keep on reading it and you’ll find out what happens.
The pace of the book works well and it is well written. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series now.
The team are fantastic. I love how sweet Kev is and Tweak is an incredibly precocious and talented spitfire. In this book though I really loved Aiden, he’s always been on a journey but his strength and bravery in this book is endearing and so moving. I’m excited to see what the next part of his journey holds for him.
The plot is uniquely Wildcard territory and no spoilers just start the series and keep on reading it and you’ll find out what happens.
The pace of the book works well and it is well written. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series now.
May 31, 2020
Great addition
This is a great addition to the "Ace High / Jokers Wild" book series. I think it's the best one so far. You find out how much each person needs each other and what they would do, at great lengths and sacrifice sometimes, to remain together. It is a little more intense in some areas but I think it adds to the understanding of each character and their fortitude. Congratulations Miss Tearmann. I'm look forward to the next book, if and when, when it come out.
This is a great addition to the "Ace High / Jokers Wild" book series. I think it's the best one so far. You find out how much each person needs each other and what they would do, at great lengths and sacrifice sometimes, to remain together. It is a little more intense in some areas but I think it adds to the understanding of each character and their fortitude. Congratulations Miss Tearmann. I'm look forward to the next book, if and when, when it come out.
November 24, 2023
oh my god this series just gets better and better with every book. I love the balance between the gritty, high stakes world and the softer moments between multiple characters. I love the Wildcards so much. I was angry how little time I had this month to devote to it with everything going on but I'm glad I took long so I could savor the moments and take breathers when I was absolutely terrified for the safety of these characters. Just wow. I love this so much. Don't sleep on this series y'all.
March 7, 2023
The book takes place in year 2157 in an alternate universe. Yet again this book does not disappoint. As I continue the read this series, buckle your seatbelt for one intense ride after another. I have been extremely satisfied how the book is well writing with lots of ups and downs. You will absolutely fall in love with all the members of the Wildcats.
February 10, 2024
Wildcards
I'm rounding this up from 3.5. This one didn't work as well for me as the previous books did. I still enjoyed the overall story and I will still continue on with the series.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I'm rounding this up from 3.5. This one didn't work as well for me as the previous books did. I still enjoyed the overall story and I will still continue on with the series.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
September 29, 2024
Book four in the Aces High, Jokers Wild series. Another good story featuring a band of memorable characters in their quest for world freedom.
June 9, 2020
This was one of the best books I've read this year. With the fast pace of a Fast & The Furious Movie, the story zips and jerks around, grabbing your attention and holding on tight. My goodness, this dystopian series really gets better and better, confronting everything from trans -phobia to crop growing in a frighteningly corporate based Republic.
We rejoin The Wildcats, the most successful underground Democratic paramilitary group in the former USA, and they are ready for their next mission. They made critical dents in the corporate world thus far, and the powers in charge are on their tale. But the opportunity to get seeds to grow their own food is too good to let go.
Now this is so meaningful in this day and age. I know from endless Science shows that there is a global seed bank in Norway, guarded fiercely. Imagine the world we know imploding from famine and poverty. The seed vault would become vital. So this is how the Wildcats feel. Reading how they put together a plan is riveting. Each character seems to have genuine respect for each other, and therefore the blueprints of the plan come together.
The characters are all well rounded, with this particular book centering on Aiden, Kevin, Tweak, Naomi mostly. This series has been the first one I've ever read that has trans characters that were important to the plot, and not just filler. The issues have been dealt with dignity, but this book has some particularly heartbreaking scenes. But reading them is paramount. Just like the current protesting climate against police brutality on black people, this book sheds light on what could easily happen.
""First, there was the Destabilization. Four presidents assassinated in fifteen years, gridlock, the democratic system breaking down. Then the Great Shutdown. Eleven months without a government. The Dissolution. The Corporations stepped in to protect their people and their profits over the next ten years. That was the Incorporation. Then the Morality Decisions started being handed down, along with the Eagle Eye acts and the Secure Liberty decrees. They started watching what we bought, what we said, what games we played, what we wrote and who we talked to, in order to weed out 'radical fringe elements' 'dissenting anarchists' 'morally unfit persons' and the all time favorite, 'terrorists.' Soon enough, there were the corporate morality trials. And today, the news is full of arrests and threat reports and trials. Have you noticed why?" he asked, voice unnervingly calm, like a teacher giving a lesson. Ezra shrugged again, staring at his meal. “Don’t particularly care, if I’m honest.”“Kev,” Aidan began, but Kevin went right on, eyeing their companion coldly. "Most people don't. Because what does it matter compared to how you're going to eat tomorrow and when your rent is due?" he asked rhetorically. "But that's the problem. You see, they've given you an enemy to hate. They've given you something to fear and to fight; the perverse, the Other. Because what does it matter that there are no more civil rights, that shareholders and corporations run our lives, when there's threats out there? Threats like two girls in love or someone planting apple trees." he affected an expression of sarcastically exaggerated horror. "And of course, that's what you focus on, these horrible crimes that the media keeps telling you about. Because while you're fighting the terrorists and the immigrants and the ‘fags’, you're not thinking. And if you ever had the time to start thinking, you might wonder why it's illegal to collect rainwater, why groundwater has a twenty percent tax on it, why there's no such thing as upward mobility in the culture we've got and absolutely no way for us to make legitimate complaints. You might start noticing the bars on your cage, if you weren't given something 'better' to fret over.""
It's a huge quote but I felt it was important to highlight it for readers. The author shows high intellect and insight in this novel, while giving us thrills that make the story unputdownable. It's a huge achievement. Start on book one of you have to, but this book tells me that Tearmann has so much more to say about the world, politics and standing up for what you believe in.
We rejoin The Wildcats, the most successful underground Democratic paramilitary group in the former USA, and they are ready for their next mission. They made critical dents in the corporate world thus far, and the powers in charge are on their tale. But the opportunity to get seeds to grow their own food is too good to let go.
Now this is so meaningful in this day and age. I know from endless Science shows that there is a global seed bank in Norway, guarded fiercely. Imagine the world we know imploding from famine and poverty. The seed vault would become vital. So this is how the Wildcats feel. Reading how they put together a plan is riveting. Each character seems to have genuine respect for each other, and therefore the blueprints of the plan come together.
The characters are all well rounded, with this particular book centering on Aiden, Kevin, Tweak, Naomi mostly. This series has been the first one I've ever read that has trans characters that were important to the plot, and not just filler. The issues have been dealt with dignity, but this book has some particularly heartbreaking scenes. But reading them is paramount. Just like the current protesting climate against police brutality on black people, this book sheds light on what could easily happen.
""First, there was the Destabilization. Four presidents assassinated in fifteen years, gridlock, the democratic system breaking down. Then the Great Shutdown. Eleven months without a government. The Dissolution. The Corporations stepped in to protect their people and their profits over the next ten years. That was the Incorporation. Then the Morality Decisions started being handed down, along with the Eagle Eye acts and the Secure Liberty decrees. They started watching what we bought, what we said, what games we played, what we wrote and who we talked to, in order to weed out 'radical fringe elements' 'dissenting anarchists' 'morally unfit persons' and the all time favorite, 'terrorists.' Soon enough, there were the corporate morality trials. And today, the news is full of arrests and threat reports and trials. Have you noticed why?" he asked, voice unnervingly calm, like a teacher giving a lesson. Ezra shrugged again, staring at his meal. “Don’t particularly care, if I’m honest.”“Kev,” Aidan began, but Kevin went right on, eyeing their companion coldly. "Most people don't. Because what does it matter compared to how you're going to eat tomorrow and when your rent is due?" he asked rhetorically. "But that's the problem. You see, they've given you an enemy to hate. They've given you something to fear and to fight; the perverse, the Other. Because what does it matter that there are no more civil rights, that shareholders and corporations run our lives, when there's threats out there? Threats like two girls in love or someone planting apple trees." he affected an expression of sarcastically exaggerated horror. "And of course, that's what you focus on, these horrible crimes that the media keeps telling you about. Because while you're fighting the terrorists and the immigrants and the ‘fags’, you're not thinking. And if you ever had the time to start thinking, you might wonder why it's illegal to collect rainwater, why groundwater has a twenty percent tax on it, why there's no such thing as upward mobility in the culture we've got and absolutely no way for us to make legitimate complaints. You might start noticing the bars on your cage, if you weren't given something 'better' to fret over.""
It's a huge quote but I felt it was important to highlight it for readers. The author shows high intellect and insight in this novel, while giving us thrills that make the story unputdownable. It's a huge achievement. Start on book one of you have to, but this book tells me that Tearmann has so much more to say about the world, politics and standing up for what you believe in.
May 17, 2020
Book 4, Aces and Eights, begins in 2157. The previous books focused on the growing relationship between Wildcards Base Commander Aidan Headly and logistics officer, Kevin McIllian. In this book, they are stronger than ever, and will be tested like they have never been tested before. Aidan is able to move forward with becoming the man he always knew he was. And can say, I love the technology that allows Aidan to be fully himself. While we see the rest of the Wildcards (Democratic State Force (DSF) team who live on Base 1407), much of this book takes place off base. Though we still see plenty of Tweak and Naomi, which makes me very happy!
As with books 2 and 3, book 4's plot revolves around a mission. The author really ups the stakes in this book. I felt the danger to the characters as things go WRONG on the mission and they have to scramble to survive. We also meet a group of Fringers (those individuals who are not part of the DSF nor part of any of the seven Corporations that run America).
I enjoy getting to see more of the outside world. With the main focus of this series on the battle between DSF and the Corporations, it is good to see more of how the Fringers live off-grid.
I also like that each book took a real step towards democracy. Dystopian books can be depressing, however this series has a strong current of hope running through it which makes it easier for me to read and enjoy it. For all of the disconnection, oppression and suffering that the series depicts within the United Corporations of America, the focus of these books is on the relationships of the Wildcards. These relationships are loving, playful and have hope. This helps to balance the tough world in which they live.
I only have a few minor complaints. I wish there had been a trigger warning for torture. There is also some awkward introductions of plot devices that maybe should have been introduced in earlier books. Example of this has been spoiler tagged.
The author sent me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am very grateful to have been introduced to a new author and series, and I am now eagerly awaiting the next book!
As with books 2 and 3, book 4's plot revolves around a mission. The author really ups the stakes in this book. I felt the danger to the characters as things go WRONG on the mission and they have to scramble to survive. We also meet a group of Fringers (those individuals who are not part of the DSF nor part of any of the seven Corporations that run America).
I enjoy getting to see more of the outside world. With the main focus of this series on the battle between DSF and the Corporations, it is good to see more of how the Fringers live off-grid.
I also like that each book took a real step towards democracy. Dystopian books can be depressing, however this series has a strong current of hope running through it which makes it easier for me to read and enjoy it. For all of the disconnection, oppression and suffering that the series depicts within the United Corporations of America, the focus of these books is on the relationships of the Wildcards. These relationships are loving, playful and have hope. This helps to balance the tough world in which they live.
I only have a few minor complaints. I wish there had been a trigger warning for torture. There is also some awkward introductions of plot devices that maybe should have been introduced in earlier books. Example of this has been spoiler tagged.
The author sent me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am very grateful to have been introduced to a new author and series, and I am now eagerly awaiting the next book!
June 30, 2020
The Wildcards are at again, this time their going after seeds and Adrian's having his surgery at last!! What will this team do in order to get everything that is needed, they create mayhem that's what they do best!!
The feels in this book has you sitting in the edge of your seat the while time!!
The feels in this book has you sitting in the edge of your seat the while time!!
May 16, 2020
Imagine this scenario: You meet a group of people you aren’t sure about – they’re kinda weird, but interesting enough that you decide to stick around. You run into them a few more times, and soon you start to realize that yeah, they’re still weird, but just maybe you’re weird, too. And then one night you’re home alone, bored, wondering what to do with your evening, and then it hits you. What you really want to be doing is hanging out with your weird friends. So, you call them up and invite them over for movies and snacks, and when they arrive? It feels like a family reunion. The phrase ‘chosen family’ suddenly makes a lot of sense, doesn’t it?
That’s how I felt reading the Aces High, Jokers Wild book series. Book four, Aces and Eights, releases May 16th, 2020. It’s time to make the popcorn again for another family reunion!
Now, at first glance, my chosen family doesn’t have a lot in common with me. After all, I live in a house, and they live in something called the Democratic State Force Base 1407, in the year 2157. And they aren’t working retail or slinging fast food. Nah, they’ve decided to, oh, you know, save the world.
In Aces and Eights, the Wildcards catch wind of the possibility that one of the seed banks established before America collapsed might have survived. If they can find it, and start growing their own food, they can take one more step away from the control of the seven corporations that are running the country.
Now, that’s a lofty goal. But it’s not just about the work. They still find time to agonize over how to ask someone for a date, take time to find just the right birthday presents for each other, share songs and movies from the old days, cry on each others shoulders, confess secrets, share a joke, fight and scream and ultimately figure out how to co-exist. And for me, that sounds like family.
A note for potential readers: this series deals (wonderfully) with human sexuality and LBGT themes.
That’s how I felt reading the Aces High, Jokers Wild book series. Book four, Aces and Eights, releases May 16th, 2020. It’s time to make the popcorn again for another family reunion!
Now, at first glance, my chosen family doesn’t have a lot in common with me. After all, I live in a house, and they live in something called the Democratic State Force Base 1407, in the year 2157. And they aren’t working retail or slinging fast food. Nah, they’ve decided to, oh, you know, save the world.
In Aces and Eights, the Wildcards catch wind of the possibility that one of the seed banks established before America collapsed might have survived. If they can find it, and start growing their own food, they can take one more step away from the control of the seven corporations that are running the country.
Now, that’s a lofty goal. But it’s not just about the work. They still find time to agonize over how to ask someone for a date, take time to find just the right birthday presents for each other, share songs and movies from the old days, cry on each others shoulders, confess secrets, share a joke, fight and scream and ultimately figure out how to co-exist. And for me, that sounds like family.
A note for potential readers: this series deals (wonderfully) with human sexuality and LBGT themes.
May 16, 2020
Book four of this series keeps the crazy ride going! The fight against the Corps is still fierce, and the WildCards are fighting to keep the pressure on.
This particular novel in the series felt like a race to get the treasure - the pace is rapid! There is a lot of very heavy stuff in this book, and the characters face rough challenges. I am still blown away by how hard the authors work to keep the depictions of the characters' struggles realistic. Sometimes mental illness makes for unhealthy behaviors, but the protagonists are helped back on their feet by those who care about them. There is so much to love about this series, from the deep connections between people who keep putting work into relationships (instead of labeling it and leaving it), to realistic portrayals of LBGTQA individuals as fully rounded humans, to the passionate dedication the WildCards have to dragging their world back into freedom.
I have been in on this series from the start, will be waiting with bated breath for the final book and chapter, and everything in-between . This book four just proves to me that the series is not sagging at all as we journey with the unfettered WildCards in their fight to overthrow the oppressive Corps.
This particular novel in the series felt like a race to get the treasure - the pace is rapid! There is a lot of very heavy stuff in this book, and the characters face rough challenges. I am still blown away by how hard the authors work to keep the depictions of the characters' struggles realistic. Sometimes mental illness makes for unhealthy behaviors, but the protagonists are helped back on their feet by those who care about them. There is so much to love about this series, from the deep connections between people who keep putting work into relationships (instead of labeling it and leaving it), to realistic portrayals of LBGTQA individuals as fully rounded humans, to the passionate dedication the WildCards have to dragging their world back into freedom.
I have been in on this series from the start, will be waiting with bated breath for the final book and chapter, and everything in-between . This book four just proves to me that the series is not sagging at all as we journey with the unfettered WildCards in their fight to overthrow the oppressive Corps.
June 5, 2020
Aces and Eights
(Aces High, Jokers Wild Book 4)
by O. E. Tearman
Aces and Eights is an incredible action-packed adventure story taking place in an alternate universe, filled with dictatorships and freedom fighters, which is one intense, roller coaster of emotions. Combining the suspense of a thriller and the ongoing development of the relationship between the characters.
Characters are well developed and have great relationships, supporting and believing in each other. The diversity of the characters is invigorating and beautiful, in the futuristic world the author has created. The characters are easy to like more than I ever expected, and I am so glad to have given them a try; not my normal genre to read. O. E. Tearmann has created a captivating and exciting series which will not disappoint the readers. A book that takes a bit of a different track, deals with human sexuality and LBGT themes, which makes this book not suitable for all ages.
I recommend this book and this series; each can be read as a stand-alone but make better sense if read as a series. I was gifted a copy to read and am posting my personal thoughts and feelings about this book and the authors writing talents. Receiving a 4-star rating
(Aces High, Jokers Wild Book 4)
by O. E. Tearman
Aces and Eights is an incredible action-packed adventure story taking place in an alternate universe, filled with dictatorships and freedom fighters, which is one intense, roller coaster of emotions. Combining the suspense of a thriller and the ongoing development of the relationship between the characters.
Characters are well developed and have great relationships, supporting and believing in each other. The diversity of the characters is invigorating and beautiful, in the futuristic world the author has created. The characters are easy to like more than I ever expected, and I am so glad to have given them a try; not my normal genre to read. O. E. Tearmann has created a captivating and exciting series which will not disappoint the readers. A book that takes a bit of a different track, deals with human sexuality and LBGT themes, which makes this book not suitable for all ages.
I recommend this book and this series; each can be read as a stand-alone but make better sense if read as a series. I was gifted a copy to read and am posting my personal thoughts and feelings about this book and the authors writing talents. Receiving a 4-star rating
May 16, 2020
The saga of Base 1407 continues in Book Four, "Aces and Eights." The Wildcards have pulled off some pretty amazing feats--and they've become increasingly notorious to the Corps. That means added danger, whether on-Grid or off. Bounty hunters stand to make a small fortune if they can identify and eliminate them.
Then a meet-gone-bad accidentally reveals a secret that Kevin McIllian had thought long-buried. Now he's on Cavanaugh Corp's most-wanted list, and everything just got way more dangerous for the Wildcards and their network of contacts.
This book combines the taut suspense of a thriller, the ongoing, unabashedly erotic development of the relationship between Aidan and Kevin, and the multi-layered depth of a fictional world you can come back to over and over--and always find new nuances.
I totally recommend this book and this series! It'll make more sense if you read the whole series (lucky you, if you're just starting that journey!), but I also have a sense that it can stand alone if you don't have access to the others.
Then a meet-gone-bad accidentally reveals a secret that Kevin McIllian had thought long-buried. Now he's on Cavanaugh Corp's most-wanted list, and everything just got way more dangerous for the Wildcards and their network of contacts.
This book combines the taut suspense of a thriller, the ongoing, unabashedly erotic development of the relationship between Aidan and Kevin, and the multi-layered depth of a fictional world you can come back to over and over--and always find new nuances.
I totally recommend this book and this series! It'll make more sense if you read the whole series (lucky you, if you're just starting that journey!), but I also have a sense that it can stand alone if you don't have access to the others.
June 4, 2020
This is part of a future apocalypse prevention series, where the hot-shot team in space just happens to be a fruit basket of different sexualities and abilities. There is very little actual sex, so I would consider is suitable for YA. This volume contains a 'meet-cute' pairing and a good news for main couple event, plus discovery of a hidden seed bank that will feed the human race, hopefully.
Sadly there is also very little action or suspense. What the series principally features is hope in the face of the Abyss of Unconquered Space. Team of Nerd-Geeks is our greatest hope; they don't fit your comic book hero molds but so what?
Celebrates difference, hoping to mainstream it. Not sure what it all has to do with playing cards.
Sadly there is also very little action or suspense. What the series principally features is hope in the face of the Abyss of Unconquered Space. Team of Nerd-Geeks is our greatest hope; they don't fit your comic book hero molds but so what?
Celebrates difference, hoping to mainstream it. Not sure what it all has to do with playing cards.
May 25, 2020
Book 4 in the series is full of danger and troubles, and the stakes are even higher than before. If you like military futuristic/dystopian books, you'll be able to sink right into this series! I like covert government mission fiction, and this series has been wonderful, with the return of a great group of characters, an oddball family of sorts, who all somehow make it work. They have each other's backs in a good versus evil battle to the end. Aidan... I'm still so sad for him. But with Kevin by his side, I think everything will be okay. Good scenes, gritty toughness, good romance, and a heart-pounding story!
May 26, 2020
Aces and Eights is the 4th and latest book in this series. This one had me saying "No No No!" And stressing the biggest part of the book. After Aidan gets his last surgery to make his body into his true self he and Kevin find they're in a boatload of trouble. Their latest mission is to find a cache of seeds that have not been genetically altered that has been hidden for hundreds of years. Liza is in charge of the base, Janice is cussing, shy and abused Billie likes Gopher and he likes her, Naomi us furious at being left behind and Tweak is freaking and trying to figure a way to help Susan and Kevin. This series is so good and you don't want to miss out on the Wildcards' latest adventure.
May 21, 2020
Bravo! Book 4 of this series is amazing. This author is a master in weaving together the characters, their history and relationships, the missions and their interations with other friendly forces and the enemy. into an exciting and action pact novel. Great addition of the pagan community, Coomb Olwen, the keepers of the seeds, They showed that the healing of the soul and the spirit is an important part of healing the body. There are ups and downs but the Wildcards always worked together to succeed and protect their own. Looking forwards to reading more adventures of the Wildcards.
May 17, 2020
The Wildcards are back and on one hell of a treasure hunt to break the Corporate control of the food supply. This was another amazing offering in the Aces High, Jokers Wild series and I had no problem reading it straight through in one sitting. I highly recommend reading the previous books because not one minute this crew and their adventures us to be missed.
May 27, 2020
This series is brilliant I am in love with this world and the characters and this one oh boy packs a heap of emotions as Kevin and Aiden go through some rough stuff that's very frowned on.
You can feel the adoration and love it just pours out of these characters hearts and I'm so proud of them.
Fantastic writing , never give up.
You can feel the adoration and love it just pours out of these characters hearts and I'm so proud of them.
Fantastic writing , never give up.
May 31, 2020
I was recommended this series by my online book group. I was surprised how much I enjoyed this futuristic story line with well written and complex and characters. The plot was incredible and the supporting characters were likable and you only wished for good things for this incredible group of people. Great series must read!!
June 2, 2020
I can’t even begin to describe my love for this series! In this book, the Wildcards had me on the edge of my seat, needing to know what was going to happen next. From start to finish, this beautifully written novel had all of my attention. And the end of this book!! It was such a perfect ending after everything that happened in this book! I can’t wait to see what comes next for the Wildcards!
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