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Spotless #5
Island Chaptal and The Ancient Aliens' Treasure
Okay, so it starts kind of like Hart to Hart.
He’s March November, a self-made millionaire and former legendary hitman, who now runs Struthio Security, a wholly legitimate business catering to high-end clients in serious trouble—think being in the cross-hairs of a Nigerian warlord.
He works with Island Chaptal, his girlfriend and partner. She used to be a computer engineer, but a lot of stuff happened, so now she’s his CTO and hacks poorly-protected devices and fiber optic cables for him, which kind of sounds like she slept her way to the top, but no, actually.
Together, Island Chaptal and Mr. November fight crime. Mostly. This time though, they’re rescuing Joy—Island’s BFF—who ended up in a Cancún jail after nearly killing her boyfriend’s side chica with a three-feet tall birthday cake. Ancient aliens somehow get involved in this mess, and also a guy name Angel Somoza, who hates sloths. There’s gunfights, frenetic capering from Cancún to Cairo, passionate sex, Roomba cats, and a lot of questionable science thrown in.
It’s the final chapter of the Spotless series, and just another Monday for March and Island.
He’s March November, a self-made millionaire and former legendary hitman, who now runs Struthio Security, a wholly legitimate business catering to high-end clients in serious trouble—think being in the cross-hairs of a Nigerian warlord.
He works with Island Chaptal, his girlfriend and partner. She used to be a computer engineer, but a lot of stuff happened, so now she’s his CTO and hacks poorly-protected devices and fiber optic cables for him, which kind of sounds like she slept her way to the top, but no, actually.
Together, Island Chaptal and Mr. November fight crime. Mostly. This time though, they’re rescuing Joy—Island’s BFF—who ended up in a Cancún jail after nearly killing her boyfriend’s side chica with a three-feet tall birthday cake. Ancient aliens somehow get involved in this mess, and also a guy name Angel Somoza, who hates sloths. There’s gunfights, frenetic capering from Cancún to Cairo, passionate sex, Roomba cats, and a lot of questionable science thrown in.
It’s the final chapter of the Spotless series, and just another Monday for March and Island.
335 pages, Paperback
First published May 12, 2020
66 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
Camilla Monk
12 books695 followersCamilla Monk is a Canadian author who rose to dubious fame with a romantic suspense series starring an OCD-ridden hitman and a wide array of strange and occasionally angry animals. These days she shares her writing time between high-octane adventures in the same vein and fantasy, her secret love (but with weird animals, too.)
She grew up in Paris in a Franco-American family, has lived in Tokyo, and spent ten years in advertising, building rickety websites for M&A boutiques and hedge funds. All of that somehow landed her in Montréal, where she keeps a close watch on the squirrels and complains on a daily basis about the egregious number of Tim Hortons.
She grew up in Paris in a Franco-American family, has lived in Tokyo, and spent ten years in advertising, building rickety websites for M&A boutiques and hedge funds. All of that somehow landed her in Montréal, where she keeps a close watch on the squirrels and complains on a daily basis about the egregious number of Tim Hortons.
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February 11, 2020
Okay, but at least there's an HEA.
What do you mean there was already one?
October 18, 2021
5 stars
I had so much fun hanging out with Island, March, and the rest of the crew!
Long story short?
It made me happy.
So, you won't be surprised when I write that I had a blast listening to this and I'm really hoping (with fingers crossed) that there will be a spin-off series...
Thanks so much for reading this with me, Penni! 😊💖
I had so much fun hanging out with Island, March, and the rest of the crew!
Long story short?
It made me happy.
So, you won't be surprised when I write that I had a blast listening to this and I'm really hoping (with fingers crossed) that there will be a spin-off series...
Thanks so much for reading this with me, Penni! 😊💖
May 16, 2020
By far, ones of the best series I’ve ever read…
There is absolutely no way I can do Island Chaptal and the Ancient Aliens’ Treasure justice. So many times I’ve tried to tell people how good the Spotless series is, and so many times I get that indulgent smirk telling me they think I’m nuts.
For example, (this example is a wee bit spoilerish, please proceed with caution)
See, I think it’s in my execution?
Hubby is only one of the times I have tried to share but the responses seem to be really similar.
Before I started reading Island Chaptal and the Ancient Aliens’ Treasure, I thought, there is no way Camilla Monk could do it again. But, she did. This story has EVERYTHING I love in my reads. I love the very original, slightly quirky heroine, Island (yes, that's her name) with her big brain that she’s not afraid to use. The hero, March (again, yes, that's his name) is a cross between Mr Darcy (Colin Firth…of course), with his stoic façade, and James Bond (don’t judge but Pierce Brosnan was and will always be my favourite Bond) with his good looks and abilities. But, the pièce de résistance, March has vulnerabilities. Oh, my heart does flutter when a man shows a little weakness. The storylines are captivating, the action makes my heart beat faster, and it is EXTREMELY FUNNY!
Each instalment has been the best thing I’ve ever read. But, I admit, the earlier ones did leave me a little frustrated because low and behold…they were clean… THE HORROR!! Well, things have certainly changed in that respect. Oh, my lordy, I even had a shake and shimmy, shiver up my spine in this one. IT WAS HOT!! I loved the progression from the first instalment to the last, seeing how far Island and March have come.
I really do feel like I would be doing this story an injustice if I was to try and tell you what it’s about and why it was so awesome. Camilla Monk’s chapter intros are the funniest things I’ve ever read, and I’m going to miss getting updates on Kerry-Lee Storm, Cost of Rica #5: Blaze of the Phoenix. It may come across as a little weird if I was to tell you that… I came to really like an arms dealer, find that I’m now scared of sloths, and for about 1.5 seconds considered that aliens might actually be real. I will warn you though, that there is a lot of violence, some kidnappings, psycho baddies and a very weird man who will organise a killing one minute then share cat gifs the next.
See, it’s all weird in a hilarious, original and very entertaining way. I NEED YOU TO BELIEVE ME!! Please, someone, just give the Spotless series a go and come back and tell me I’m not insane for loving it as much as I do.
Camilla Monk or should I call you… Manila Clonk… you are an amazing author. While I don’t know what your first attempt of this story was like, this one was PERFECT! Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories with us and I can’t wait for more in the future. I will miss Island and March, but I’m kind of hoping that one day my dream will come true, and this will be made into a movie.
Seriously, my review probably hasn’t done this story justice, but if you are even a wee bit tempted…DO IT!!
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
There is absolutely no way I can do Island Chaptal and the Ancient Aliens’ Treasure justice. So many times I’ve tried to tell people how good the Spotless series is, and so many times I get that indulgent smirk telling me they think I’m nuts.
For example, (this example is a wee bit spoilerish, please proceed with caution)
Me: Hubby, I’m reading this awesome story.
Hubby: Mmmm…
Me: It’s about this girl, and this guy is in her apartment, and unbeknownst to her, he’s there to kill her. Then, she gets sick and throws up. Instead of killing her he looks after her and cleans her apartment. Turns out he’s OCD and loves everything CLEAN. Isn’t that funny?
Hubby: I guess you had to be there…
Me: What…that’s hilarious. How can you not see how hilarious that is? Maybe, I should read it out loud to you?
Hubby: Ahhh…maybe not. I love you, but no, I don’t want you to read to me.
See, I think it’s in my execution?
Hubby is only one of the times I have tried to share but the responses seem to be really similar.
Before I started reading Island Chaptal and the Ancient Aliens’ Treasure, I thought, there is no way Camilla Monk could do it again. But, she did. This story has EVERYTHING I love in my reads. I love the very original, slightly quirky heroine, Island (yes, that's her name) with her big brain that she’s not afraid to use. The hero, March (again, yes, that's his name) is a cross between Mr Darcy (Colin Firth…of course), with his stoic façade, and James Bond (don’t judge but Pierce Brosnan was and will always be my favourite Bond) with his good looks and abilities. But, the pièce de résistance, March has vulnerabilities. Oh, my heart does flutter when a man shows a little weakness. The storylines are captivating, the action makes my heart beat faster, and it is EXTREMELY FUNNY!
Each instalment has been the best thing I’ve ever read. But, I admit, the earlier ones did leave me a little frustrated because low and behold…they were clean… THE HORROR!! Well, things have certainly changed in that respect. Oh, my lordy, I even had a shake and shimmy, shiver up my spine in this one. IT WAS HOT!! I loved the progression from the first instalment to the last, seeing how far Island and March have come.
I really do feel like I would be doing this story an injustice if I was to try and tell you what it’s about and why it was so awesome. Camilla Monk’s chapter intros are the funniest things I’ve ever read, and I’m going to miss getting updates on Kerry-Lee Storm, Cost of Rica #5: Blaze of the Phoenix. It may come across as a little weird if I was to tell you that… I came to really like an arms dealer, find that I’m now scared of sloths, and for about 1.5 seconds considered that aliens might actually be real. I will warn you though, that there is a lot of violence, some kidnappings, psycho baddies and a very weird man who will organise a killing one minute then share cat gifs the next.
See, it’s all weird in a hilarious, original and very entertaining way. I NEED YOU TO BELIEVE ME!! Please, someone, just give the Spotless series a go and come back and tell me I’m not insane for loving it as much as I do.
Camilla Monk or should I call you… Manila Clonk… you are an amazing author. While I don’t know what your first attempt of this story was like, this one was PERFECT! Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories with us and I can’t wait for more in the future. I will miss Island and March, but I’m kind of hoping that one day my dream will come true, and this will be made into a movie.
Seriously, my review probably hasn’t done this story justice, but if you are even a wee bit tempted…DO IT!!
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
September 7, 2020
I adore, adore this series. I am going to miss the fun adventures and quirky characters.
Here are some of my thoughts:
• In this book, we saw Island and March getting into the routine of being a couple. I loved how they adapted to each other’s habits. She knew what to do to not trigger his need for cleanliness, and he knew to look away when she was messy in her personal belongings. It was honestly sweet that they didn’t have a need to change each other. Even though they were opposites in this regard, they accepted each other for who they were, and loved each other exactly as they were. I thought that was something rare and beautiful. It was the kind of love that where they loved each other, flaws and all, not despite the flaws.
• Like in the previous books, I enjoyed how relatable and adorable Island was, and how weird and sweet March was. They were thoroughly fun characters to follow along in these 5 books. It was impossible for me to hate them. Plus, their love for each other was so different from other romances I have read. In particular, my heart always died when March was protective of and sweet to Island.
• This series was the epitome of quirkiness and I am HERE FOR IT. The quirks just made the series and characters all the more weird, funny, and cute.
• I loved the little pictures Island and the other characters drew to recap what happened in the previous books to Joy. They were cute and funny!
• It was fun seeing Joy have a bigger role in this book. I wasn’t expecting the romance between her and Angel, but tbh, I dug it.
• Never going to see sloths the same. After reading this book, I literally now have a genuine fear of sloths.
4 stars. I’m honestly so reluctant to let this series go. I don’t want it to end. However, I’m relieved to say that this is the perfect conclusion for the series. I feel satisfied with how the characters end up, and I know I’m going to always look back at this series and these characters fondly. This series is one-of-a-kind with the reformed hitman with OCD and the adorkable, cutesie girl who steps out of her comfort zone to go on a crazy journey with him. I’m going to miss the thrilling adventures, the quirky, likable, characters, the weird, sweet romance, the wacky humor, the surprisingly sweet moments, etc. Overall, it is a memorable series for me and one of my favorites.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Humor?
Tears-worthy?
Favorite scenes?
Here are some of my thoughts:
• In this book, we saw Island and March getting into the routine of being a couple. I loved how they adapted to each other’s habits. She knew what to do to not trigger his need for cleanliness, and he knew to look away when she was messy in her personal belongings. It was honestly sweet that they didn’t have a need to change each other. Even though they were opposites in this regard, they accepted each other for who they were, and loved each other exactly as they were. I thought that was something rare and beautiful. It was the kind of love that where they loved each other, flaws and all, not despite the flaws.
• Like in the previous books, I enjoyed how relatable and adorable Island was, and how weird and sweet March was. They were thoroughly fun characters to follow along in these 5 books. It was impossible for me to hate them. Plus, their love for each other was so different from other romances I have read. In particular, my heart always died when March was protective of and sweet to Island.
• This series was the epitome of quirkiness and I am HERE FOR IT. The quirks just made the series and characters all the more weird, funny, and cute.
• I loved the little pictures Island and the other characters drew to recap what happened in the previous books to Joy. They were cute and funny!
• It was fun seeing Joy have a bigger role in this book. I wasn’t expecting the romance between her and Angel, but tbh, I dug it.
• Never going to see sloths the same. After reading this book, I literally now have a genuine fear of sloths.
4 stars. I’m honestly so reluctant to let this series go. I don’t want it to end. However, I’m relieved to say that this is the perfect conclusion for the series. I feel satisfied with how the characters end up, and I know I’m going to always look back at this series and these characters fondly. This series is one-of-a-kind with the reformed hitman with OCD and the adorkable, cutesie girl who steps out of her comfort zone to go on a crazy journey with him. I’m going to miss the thrilling adventures, the quirky, likable, characters, the weird, sweet romance, the wacky humor, the surprisingly sweet moments, etc. Overall, it is a memorable series for me and one of my favorites.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Humor?
Tears-worthy?
Favorite scenes?
Want to read
March 13, 202013/3/20
So GR made all my updates,visuals etc. for this disappear. So now I'm pissed.
Anyway, release date May 12th 2020.
So GR made all my updates,visuals etc. for this disappear. So now I'm pissed.
Anyway, release date May 12th 2020.
May 15, 2020
I can now die happy, with a grin on my face. Manila Clonk, I mean Camilla Monk, gave me the ending to the story that I felt Island Chaptal and March November deserved in books 4 and 4.5, Butterfly in Amber and Apache Strike Force, respectively. Even if she never pens another story featuring my favorite moppet and her hard-bodied hitman, I will feel satisfied. All the gooey feels are exploding all over the place. There is no doubt that March learned well at the altar of the Billionaire Sheikh. I’m guessing he also picked up a few pointers from the other romantic heroes, i.e. recalcitrant dukes, alien warlords, regimented professors and MC bad boys, watching his every move from Island’s nightstand. As we learn at the beginning of every chapter in Island Chaptal and The Ancient Aliens' Treasure, our heroine has fluid tastes in romantic sub-genres.
Monk has served us a feast of our favorite idiosyncracies from previous books in her series. Evil animals, boys with really big [incendiary] toys, over-the-top villains, exotic locales, and implausible plots all make an appearance. That trademark humor is fully intact, and I was left sputtering on more than one occasion. Dear Husband, of course, was asking, “What’s so funny?” And then I just had to explain. My goal one day is to get him, the guy who only reads the Wall Street Journal and his Facebook news feed, to pick up one of these novels. Manila Clonk, I mean Camilla Monk, has SO MUCH to teach him. Somehow she knows I have a secret fascination with a certain Australian actor who has blades for fingers and a prolific chestnut matte of his own. Dear Husband knows it, too, since a poster of said gentleman with the bouffant hair and the mammal name was tacked to the wall of my walk-in closet wall for years. Like Island, I mourned Logan’s death. Dear Husband knows I was inconsolable.
What sets Monk apart is the sheer cleverness of her storytelling. I’ve always thought comediennes are among the smartest people one will encounter. I mean, Lucille Ball was an influential goddess. Monk is definitely in that class. She keeps track of a lot of details, not only within each book, but between books as well. She manages to script a spoof that feels amazingly original, probably because it borrows from so many genres just like Island’s reading habits. She has the effrontery – and the audacity – to name the Other Woman character, who messes up Island’s friend Joy’s life, Cachemire. Not Cashmere. Now stop, think about it, and the repellent image Monk just drew for you. And here I am sputtering again. I also love that Monk rarely bothers to explain her jokes like I just did. She relies on the intelligence of her reader. Thank you, Manila.
Description is off the charts in this book, and another special talent of Monk’s. I literally see the fantastical settings around me. For instance, I can see that glass wall holding back the pool water shattering from bullet holes. Or the fancy car slipping around missiles that have just been spit out of the speeding SUV in front of it. Some places I even look up on Wiki, like Cave Church in Cairo. Monk never fails to stimulate my curiosity and I can honestly admit that I learn something every single time I read one of her books. She is also the queen of similes. “The moment we step out onto the airstair, a muggy ninety degrees engulfs us as if we’d just opened the door to the dishwasher.” That is a description that will hit you in the face, and yet everyone has experienced. Kind of like murderous expressions and assembling IKEA shelves.
Throughout the Spotless series, Island has changed and matured. In Book 5, she has hit her stride. Island is a full-fledged member of Struthio Security. Dare I say she might even be the brains behind the operation? March listens to her, recognizes her strengths and weaknesses, and responds appropriately. The unbalanced relationship is no more. Except when someone needs punched or knifed or a helicopter needs taken down. Then March handles it.
Island and March are partners now, and the book is sprinkled with little gems of how perfect their understanding is of each other. These moments are in glances and body language and occasionally in words. Monk takes time out for the romantic moments amid the chaos of 48 hours on three different continents. In fact, this book is, by far, the most romantic of the series. For March it wasn’t the chase, but the ever after that was important. We finally get a bona fide, super steamy scene, and it is one of the most tender moments I’ve ever read in a romance - between an assassin with OCD and the girl who gave him happiness.
ARC received from the author.
Monk has served us a feast of our favorite idiosyncracies from previous books in her series. Evil animals, boys with really big [incendiary] toys, over-the-top villains, exotic locales, and implausible plots all make an appearance. That trademark humor is fully intact, and I was left sputtering on more than one occasion. Dear Husband, of course, was asking, “What’s so funny?” And then I just had to explain. My goal one day is to get him, the guy who only reads the Wall Street Journal and his Facebook news feed, to pick up one of these novels. Manila Clonk, I mean Camilla Monk, has SO MUCH to teach him. Somehow she knows I have a secret fascination with a certain Australian actor who has blades for fingers and a prolific chestnut matte of his own. Dear Husband knows it, too, since a poster of said gentleman with the bouffant hair and the mammal name was tacked to the wall of my walk-in closet wall for years. Like Island, I mourned Logan’s death. Dear Husband knows I was inconsolable.
What sets Monk apart is the sheer cleverness of her storytelling. I’ve always thought comediennes are among the smartest people one will encounter. I mean, Lucille Ball was an influential goddess. Monk is definitely in that class. She keeps track of a lot of details, not only within each book, but between books as well. She manages to script a spoof that feels amazingly original, probably because it borrows from so many genres just like Island’s reading habits. She has the effrontery – and the audacity – to name the Other Woman character, who messes up Island’s friend Joy’s life, Cachemire. Not Cashmere. Now stop, think about it, and the repellent image Monk just drew for you. And here I am sputtering again. I also love that Monk rarely bothers to explain her jokes like I just did. She relies on the intelligence of her reader. Thank you, Manila.
Description is off the charts in this book, and another special talent of Monk’s. I literally see the fantastical settings around me. For instance, I can see that glass wall holding back the pool water shattering from bullet holes. Or the fancy car slipping around missiles that have just been spit out of the speeding SUV in front of it. Some places I even look up on Wiki, like Cave Church in Cairo. Monk never fails to stimulate my curiosity and I can honestly admit that I learn something every single time I read one of her books. She is also the queen of similes. “The moment we step out onto the airstair, a muggy ninety degrees engulfs us as if we’d just opened the door to the dishwasher.” That is a description that will hit you in the face, and yet everyone has experienced. Kind of like murderous expressions and assembling IKEA shelves.
Throughout the Spotless series, Island has changed and matured. In Book 5, she has hit her stride. Island is a full-fledged member of Struthio Security. Dare I say she might even be the brains behind the operation? March listens to her, recognizes her strengths and weaknesses, and responds appropriately. The unbalanced relationship is no more. Except when someone needs punched or knifed or a helicopter needs taken down. Then March handles it.
Island and March are partners now, and the book is sprinkled with little gems of how perfect their understanding is of each other. These moments are in glances and body language and occasionally in words. Monk takes time out for the romantic moments amid the chaos of 48 hours on three different continents. In fact, this book is, by far, the most romantic of the series. For March it wasn’t the chase, but the ever after that was important. We finally get a bona fide, super steamy scene, and it is one of the most tender moments I’ve ever read in a romance - between an assassin with OCD and the girl who gave him happiness.
ARC received from the author.
Read
June 3, 2020Actually I finished this book days ago, in one of those read-until-the-wee-hours marathons, because the climax was about as cinematic a set piece as one can get. The entire series is cinematic, but for me, at least, the strength is in the narrative voice.
Island is so individual, and so funny, that her voice plus the vivid imagery bolsters the total id vortex over-the-topness of the entire series. We're dealing with ancient assassin orders here, and hitmen, as well as gun-runners and the like, with a strong romantic overlay, so there is going to fast action, lots of explosions, and just plain crazy.
This particular book has the best recap I remember ever seeing, but even so, I still think a new reader should begin with the first book.
Because this is the last of a series, just about anything I say will be spoilery, so I'll end with saying this is just So. Much. Fun.
Island is so individual, and so funny, that her voice plus the vivid imagery bolsters the total id vortex over-the-topness of the entire series. We're dealing with ancient assassin orders here, and hitmen, as well as gun-runners and the like, with a strong romantic overlay, so there is going to fast action, lots of explosions, and just plain crazy.
This particular book has the best recap I remember ever seeing, but even so, I still think a new reader should begin with the first book.
Because this is the last of a series, just about anything I say will be spoilery, so I'll end with saying this is just So. Much. Fun.
May 17, 2020
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Copy received from author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - 5th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5++++ stars
★Review★
I have made no secret that I love, with the power of a thousand suns this series.
Now, to be perfectly honest - right now, as it is I am sure for a lot of people, life is pretty crap! I am stressed up to the eyeballs as a nurse in the NHS and have not felt like I have smiled in weeks!
However when I got the email drop into my inbox if I would like a copy to review well....
I have adored this series and Island and March since the very first book.
It is such a unique series - I have honestly never read anything like it and as soon as I received the arc, I just had to go right back to the start and begin all over again at book 1.
Literally from the very start this author has not put a foot wrong with this series, and I say that as someone who dislikes "clean" books - I need the sex *sorry not sorry*, I dislike cliffhangers, I dislike what might possibly be construed at times but not really as a love triangle, not a fan of OTT beyond the realms of possibility plot lines - which in reality this series has had it all!
Am I bothered though?
This series is pure perfection!
From the introductions to chapters (The Cost of Rica anyone?) to bad sloth sex memes, to Ostriches and Emus, to bad (but not so bad) guys and good (but not really all that good)guys, to Paris, to Tokyo to Space this series had it all. And it is so so clever and witty.
In this book, Island and March are finally eventually properly together - and together in a way that only a couple who has been through some shit can be together! The love leaps off the page between them - yet we still get that same humour (loved the drawings and that entire scene) and an action packed story. And I still reluctantly like Stiles. Would love and Angel and Joy book.
It is a brilliant end *cries* to the series. I wanted to devour it and for it to never end all at the same time.
I actually refuse to believer this is the end! I wont have it. I am sure we must get more, even just a glimpse in the future! It just cannot be the end.
Review for book 1 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 2 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 3 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 4 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Copy received from author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - 5th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5++++ stars
★Review★
I have made no secret that I love, with the power of a thousand suns this series.
Now, to be perfectly honest - right now, as it is I am sure for a lot of people, life is pretty crap! I am stressed up to the eyeballs as a nurse in the NHS and have not felt like I have smiled in weeks!
However when I got the email drop into my inbox if I would like a copy to review well....
I have adored this series and Island and March since the very first book.
It is such a unique series - I have honestly never read anything like it and as soon as I received the arc, I just had to go right back to the start and begin all over again at book 1.
Literally from the very start this author has not put a foot wrong with this series, and I say that as someone who dislikes "clean" books - I need the sex *sorry not sorry*, I dislike cliffhangers, I dislike what might possibly be construed at times but not really as a love triangle, not a fan of OTT beyond the realms of possibility plot lines - which in reality this series has had it all!
Am I bothered though?
This series is pure perfection!
From the introductions to chapters (The Cost of Rica anyone?) to bad sloth sex memes, to Ostriches and Emus, to bad (but not so bad) guys and good (but not really all that good)guys, to Paris, to Tokyo to Space this series had it all. And it is so so clever and witty.
In this book, Island and March are finally eventually properly together - and together in a way that only a couple who has been through some shit can be together! The love leaps off the page between them - yet we still get that same humour (loved the drawings and that entire scene) and an action packed story. And I still reluctantly like Stiles. Would love and Angel and Joy book.
It is a brilliant end *cries* to the series. I wanted to devour it and for it to never end all at the same time.
I actually refuse to believer this is the end! I wont have it. I am sure we must get more, even just a glimpse in the future! It just cannot be the end.
Review for book 1 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 2 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 3 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 4 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
May 14, 2020
Labeled as the final chapter, this was a delightful way to wrap up the Spotless series. It has all the trademark humor, action and sheer quirkiness that I’ve come to expect from Ms. Monk. March, the OCD hitman and Island, the romance novel loving computer engineer, have a very particular place in my heart. When this story begins, March and Island have been happily cohabitating, and are called to rescue Island’s best friend, Joy, from a Mexican jail, when their past with the Lions comes roaring back into their lives (yeah,I know, I couldn’t resist) in a way they weren’t expecting. Along the way, great action, weird alien treasure, an evil sloth, and some sweet, sweet, loving romance happens.
Yes, I said sloth. *blinks* Anyhoodle...
From beginning to end, each book has some really clever, thrilling action and a race to discover the latest and greatest evil plot, while delving further into the overarching storyline (here I’m being purposely vague to avoid major spoilers) of the mystery surrounding her parents and their complicated ties to several nefarious organizations. This story weaves into that overarching storyline in a way that’s unexpected and yet works perfectly. Special props to several poignant scenes featuring Island’s parents that made me a little misty-eyed.
But what is the major selling feature for me? You guessed it, the romance. This series spent several books teasing their love and giving me the slowest of slow burns, which hurt so good, don’t get me wrong. But what I adored about this book is how fully in love and best yet, how much trust there is between Island and March. Theirs is a true partnership that anchored all the action and gave me several wonderful affectionate moments between them that I simply adored. There is a secondary romance that I wasn’t expecting but would love to see more of -maybe a spinoff? Yes, I’m grasping because I don’t want this series to be over. But if it is, this is a great way to do it.
As a new entry in an existing series, Ms. Monk managed to create some creative illustrations to catch up new (and longtime) readers on what happened before now, so if you were to try to jump in with this book, I think the story could still work.
Long review short (go with it)....I loved spending more time in Island’s interesting brain, and seeing her HFN ending with March turn into a very satisfying HEA. I have no reservations in recommending the entire series. Yes, it’s all first person POV, and yes, it has some soft and sharp cliffhanger moments, but this ‘verse is unique and well worth the trip.
**ARC provided by author for review**
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July 28, 2020
"Rica ran to the airport, tears streaming down the perfect oval of her face. Ricardo had betrayed her, shattered their love like a piñata.”
—Kerry-Lee Storm, The Cost of Rica #5: Blaze of the Phoenix
Every chapter starts with a made up romance novel quote and I love them so much!!!!
“You and I are spinning around, Cheyenne. Love is a wheel you can’t escape.
—Crystal Viper, Undercover Shifters #2: Bite of the Billionaire Gerbil
I mean come on!! If these quotes don’t make you want to pick up this series I don’t know what will. They are literature gold!! I absolutely love this series. This was the perfect ending. I love Island and March.
That being said, Joy got on my last nerve. Joy and Angel took over this book and I don’t like either of them much. I was too mad at Joy to enjoy the story. Why didn’t we get more Island and March? I’m so sad. This was their story and Angel and Joy took it hostage. Still an amazing story. That ending!!! It was everything.
—Kerry-Lee Storm, The Cost of Rica #5: Blaze of the Phoenix
Every chapter starts with a made up romance novel quote and I love them so much!!!!
“You and I are spinning around, Cheyenne. Love is a wheel you can’t escape.
—Crystal Viper, Undercover Shifters #2: Bite of the Billionaire Gerbil
I mean come on!! If these quotes don’t make you want to pick up this series I don’t know what will. They are literature gold!! I absolutely love this series. This was the perfect ending. I love Island and March.
That being said, Joy got on my last nerve. Joy and Angel took over this book and I don’t like either of them much. I was too mad at Joy to enjoy the story. Why didn’t we get more Island and March? I’m so sad. This was their story and Angel and Joy took it hostage. Still an amazing story. That ending!!! It was everything.
July 10, 2020
Manila Clonk... ahem... excuse me, Camilla Monk really hit gold with this series and the way in which it aligns perfectly to my specific tastes. Many people compare this series to Indiana Jones/James Bond/Stephanie Plum and they're all very valid comparisons - I've made them myself. But, it wasn't until this final book in the series that it eventually clicked as to why I love it so much and it has A LOT to do with how much I rewatched The Mummy as a 12 year old. If you're like me and can trace all of your tastes in media consumption back to The Mummy in some way, then you'll get along with this series very well.
You - Are there Mummies in this series?
Me - Not that I can recall...
You - Are there any mythical creatures or mythology references at all?
Me - Do you count Sloths and/or Crabs as mythical creatures?
You - Is there any magic?
Me - I heard a rumour that March's middle name was 'Magic'
You - So how is it like The Mummy?
Me - Well...
Adventure: This is the KEY element for me because I feel like we're really gasping for truly fun adventure stories in the contemporary romance genre. If I try to look up a list of recommendations I usually get titles that fit more accurately into romantic-suspense - which I haven't had much success with in the past. What I actually want is romantic-adventure like The Mummy or Hooten and the Lady; where two real-world mismatched people have to set out on a quest for something or other, trading jibes, getting into scrapes, finding mysterious artifacts, PINING FROM AFAR and then falling desperately in love at the worst possible moment. I want the popcorn action scenes where it looks like all hope is lost. I want the double-crossing. I want the random secret underground societies. I want the cool gadgets. The insane set-pieces.
Romance: The romance is scorchio and SOME OF THE WORST SLOW BURN I HAVE EVER SUFFERED IN MY LIFE. This is an adult series so expect what you should expect from an adult romance (a point worth clarifying since I just compared it to The Mummy), but be patient on the getting there.
Comedy: The ingredient that is always missing when I'm looking for the type of books mentioned above is the comedy. Yeah sure, romantic-suspense can give me a lot of that but it's very rarely funny. You usually have your typical alpha character paired with the ingénue being very serious about the serious danger they're in, which is OK but it's just not my thing. I want all of the things that I love about romcoms in the mix too: the whacky situations, the oh-fuck moments, the laughs and the sprinkling of angst. I want to laugh out loud but I also want those laughs to make me care so much more about the characters.
All this is to say that Camilla Monk delivers! I'm so happy this series exists. I'm so happy that she decided to give us book 5. I wish I knew if more books like this existed but for now I'm content to reread. And Camilla, I know you probably want to write different things but I wouldn't say no to more adventure-romcoms, if you have another few up your sleeve!
Farewell (again!) March and Island. You've cheered me up and I've cheered you on! Just gonna sip some tea from my Struthio Security mug and look at my Spotless poster (pictured below) for a bit to recover...
You - Are there Mummies in this series?
Me - Not that I can recall...
You - Are there any mythical creatures or mythology references at all?
Me - Do you count Sloths and/or Crabs as mythical creatures?
You - Is there any magic?
Me - I heard a rumour that March's middle name was 'Magic'
You - So how is it like The Mummy?
Me - Well...
Adventure: This is the KEY element for me because I feel like we're really gasping for truly fun adventure stories in the contemporary romance genre. If I try to look up a list of recommendations I usually get titles that fit more accurately into romantic-suspense - which I haven't had much success with in the past. What I actually want is romantic-adventure like The Mummy or Hooten and the Lady; where two real-world mismatched people have to set out on a quest for something or other, trading jibes, getting into scrapes, finding mysterious artifacts, PINING FROM AFAR and then falling desperately in love at the worst possible moment. I want the popcorn action scenes where it looks like all hope is lost. I want the double-crossing. I want the random secret underground societies. I want the cool gadgets. The insane set-pieces.
Romance: The romance is scorchio and SOME OF THE WORST SLOW BURN I HAVE EVER SUFFERED IN MY LIFE. This is an adult series so expect what you should expect from an adult romance (a point worth clarifying since I just compared it to The Mummy), but be patient on the getting there.
Comedy: The ingredient that is always missing when I'm looking for the type of books mentioned above is the comedy. Yeah sure, romantic-suspense can give me a lot of that but it's very rarely funny. You usually have your typical alpha character paired with the ingénue being very serious about the serious danger they're in, which is OK but it's just not my thing. I want all of the things that I love about romcoms in the mix too: the whacky situations, the oh-fuck moments, the laughs and the sprinkling of angst. I want to laugh out loud but I also want those laughs to make me care so much more about the characters.
All this is to say that Camilla Monk delivers! I'm so happy this series exists. I'm so happy that she decided to give us book 5. I wish I knew if more books like this existed but for now I'm content to reread. And Camilla, I know you probably want to write different things but I wouldn't say no to more adventure-romcoms, if you have another few up your sleeve!
Farewell (again!) March and Island. You've cheered me up and I've cheered you on! Just gonna sip some tea from my Struthio Security mug and look at my Spotless poster (pictured below) for a bit to recover...
May 13, 2020
I see you JOE EXOTIC, love the reference lol
I love the way Camilla Monk writes, her vocabulary is freaking incredible and because of it I feel prepared to do the GRE, lol kidding. She creates witty, funny and sometimes crazy /scary characters that I love to read about.
I liked this book, it's a good addition to the story but I want more ISLAND AND MARCH. I WANT TO SEE THEM AS A NORMAL COUPLE CHILLING AT HOME, I MISSED THEM TOGETHER. The plot was amazing however, I lowkey dislike Joy, I don't know why she has all the attributes that I admire but something about her puts me off. It's a not you, it's me -situation.
Also, I want something in March's perspective, I don't remember if I have ever read something in his perspective but I want more of it!
4/5 stars
I love the way Camilla Monk writes, her vocabulary is freaking incredible and because of it I feel prepared to do the GRE, lol kidding. She creates witty, funny and sometimes crazy /scary characters that I love to read about.
I liked this book, it's a good addition to the story but I want more ISLAND AND MARCH. I WANT TO SEE THEM AS A NORMAL COUPLE CHILLING AT HOME, I MISSED THEM TOGETHER. The plot was amazing however, I lowkey dislike Joy, I don't know why she has all the attributes that I admire but something about her puts me off. It's a not you, it's me -situation.
Also, I want something in March's perspective, I don't remember if I have ever read something in his perspective but I want more of it!
4/5 stars
May 5, 2020
*THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS*
ARC kindly provided by author via booksprout for an honest review.
I laughed a lot, teared up a lot, and closed the book feeling like cloud nine. Not like I was on cloud nine, no, I was the literal cloud nine.
I've not made it a secret how much I adore Spotless and this book really just drove the point home. Action, adventure, domestic bliss, it had it all. There were a lot of homages to earlier novels in the action sequences, which I thought was sweet. The whole cast and crew pulled together for one last bona fide adventure, which made my heart warm.
I enjoyed Angel's presence in the novel, and his and March's banter was absolutely wonderful. The parallels between them and their upbringing was touched upon frequently, and I think it really touched on the fact that we are the product of our upbringing, especially when you consider Angel's background. I'll admit that I thought Angel served as a sort of a Dries stand-in because his banter with March was eerily reminiscent of his banter with Dries, but I liked it nevertheless.
And Joy! Sweet Joy, I wouldn't have seen
Camilla really showed off her research skills in this book again, like this is the kind of lore writers can only hope to aspire to weave into their novels. It didn't feel clunky or technical at all, it was very straightforward and plotted out neatly -- I really, really loved the use of stars in this one, it made me super giddy.
Island and March, where do I BEGIN. They've made so many strides since they first met and this novel ended their story in the best way possible. Them trusting each other with their most vulnerable sides, meeting each other halfway, working together like a seamless unit...honestly, what a power couple.
The pacing of the novel was totally perfect, it did lag a little with the explanation to Joy, but the pictures more than made up for it.
I kind of wish the older cast - Dominik, Isiporho, Kalahari, Ilan - had joined them instead of just the Jan and Andrea cameo, and the introduction of a few new characters. It would've made the ending a lot more emotional or me, but I'm happy with it regardless.
And with that, I'm off to reread the book with mood music.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
ARC kindly provided by author via booksprout for an honest review.
I laughed a lot, teared up a lot, and closed the book feeling like cloud nine. Not like I was on cloud nine, no, I was the literal cloud nine.
I've not made it a secret how much I adore Spotless and this book really just drove the point home. Action, adventure, domestic bliss, it had it all. There were a lot of homages to earlier novels in the action sequences, which I thought was sweet. The whole cast and crew pulled together for one last bona fide adventure, which made my heart warm.
I enjoyed Angel's presence in the novel, and his and March's banter was absolutely wonderful. The parallels between them and their upbringing was touched upon frequently, and I think it really touched on the fact that we are the product of our upbringing, especially when you consider Angel's background. I'll admit that I thought Angel served as a sort of a Dries stand-in because his banter with March was eerily reminiscent of his banter with Dries, but I liked it nevertheless.
And Joy! Sweet Joy, I wouldn't have seen
Camilla really showed off her research skills in this book again, like this is the kind of lore writers can only hope to aspire to weave into their novels. It didn't feel clunky or technical at all, it was very straightforward and plotted out neatly -- I really, really loved the use of stars in this one, it made me super giddy.
Island and March, where do I BEGIN. They've made so many strides since they first met and this novel ended their story in the best way possible. Them trusting each other with their most vulnerable sides, meeting each other halfway, working together like a seamless unit...honestly, what a power couple.
The pacing of the novel was totally perfect, it did lag a little with the explanation to Joy, but the pictures more than made up for it.
I kind of wish the older cast - Dominik, Isiporho, Kalahari, Ilan - had joined them instead of just the Jan and Andrea cameo, and the introduction of a few new characters. It would've made the ending a lot more emotional or me, but I'm happy with it regardless.
And with that, I'm off to reread the book with mood music.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2020
I can't imagine any other book where each chapter opens with an excerpt from an imaginary romance novel! Camilla Monk not only names each charming chapter of this unique romantic suspense story, but she adds in a fictional snippet like so:
"Rica ran to the airport, tears streaming down the perfect oval of her face. Ricardo had betrayed her, shattered their love like a piñata." —Kerry-Lee Storm, The Cost of Rica #5: Blaze of the Phoenix
I mean, come on! How adorable is that? I also cannot imagine a more unique couple than nerdy Island Chaptal and the mysterious, handsome, obsessive-compulsive March. I also cannot even begin to summarize the plot of this conclusion to the 'Spotless' series other than to say there are global locales, zany action scenes and yes, even surprising sketches throughout that are utterly captivating.
This is one of the those series that even when I am reading, I hear the voice of Amy McFadden, the absolutely stellar narrator of the 'Spotless' audio books. She literally IS Island to me so if you are at all inclined to do so, pick up the audio versions of these books, they are outstanding!
There is a lot of grief in the world right now so if you are looking for a witty, smart and very romantic series, I highly recommend 'Spotless'. I am going to even say that you might be able to read this last book as a standalone BUT there would be major spoilers for you. I know there are zillions of choices of books to read out there but this is a completely unique and different series that really stands out from a very crowded field.
And March. Well, let me just say he is tender and tough and quirky and sexy. And a perfect match for our girl Island.
“Happy birthday, biscuit,” he murmurs with that faint British accent he inherited from his father. A better aphrodisiac than Nutella, in my humble opinion.
I don't know how the author came up with these fabulous lead characters who remain realistic even while still chasing international criminals around the globe. If you have been looking for something different to read, pick up this series. Camilla Monk is a true original and the slow-burn romance is sure to satisfy even the most jaded reader.
"None of them prepared me for March, for a happy ending of my own, and the simple certainty that I’m not alone: somewhere on earth, there was a soulmate for me, a man who reads Wikipedia a lot too and doesn’t need big words to connect with me."
"Rica ran to the airport, tears streaming down the perfect oval of her face. Ricardo had betrayed her, shattered their love like a piñata." —Kerry-Lee Storm, The Cost of Rica #5: Blaze of the Phoenix
I mean, come on! How adorable is that? I also cannot imagine a more unique couple than nerdy Island Chaptal and the mysterious, handsome, obsessive-compulsive March. I also cannot even begin to summarize the plot of this conclusion to the 'Spotless' series other than to say there are global locales, zany action scenes and yes, even surprising sketches throughout that are utterly captivating.
This is one of the those series that even when I am reading, I hear the voice of Amy McFadden, the absolutely stellar narrator of the 'Spotless' audio books. She literally IS Island to me so if you are at all inclined to do so, pick up the audio versions of these books, they are outstanding!
There is a lot of grief in the world right now so if you are looking for a witty, smart and very romantic series, I highly recommend 'Spotless'. I am going to even say that you might be able to read this last book as a standalone BUT there would be major spoilers for you. I know there are zillions of choices of books to read out there but this is a completely unique and different series that really stands out from a very crowded field.
And March. Well, let me just say he is tender and tough and quirky and sexy. And a perfect match for our girl Island.
“Happy birthday, biscuit,” he murmurs with that faint British accent he inherited from his father. A better aphrodisiac than Nutella, in my humble opinion.
I don't know how the author came up with these fabulous lead characters who remain realistic even while still chasing international criminals around the globe. If you have been looking for something different to read, pick up this series. Camilla Monk is a true original and the slow-burn romance is sure to satisfy even the most jaded reader.
"None of them prepared me for March, for a happy ending of my own, and the simple certainty that I’m not alone: somewhere on earth, there was a soulmate for me, a man who reads Wikipedia a lot too and doesn’t need big words to connect with me."
May 6, 2020
All the things I love about this series crammed into one fantastic adventure!
I was lucky enough to discover the Spotless Series a few years ago and was immediately hooked by both the memorable characters of March and Island, but also by the brilliant writing of Ms. Monk. She has a gift of combining characters that have extremely real and relatable traits, giving them super-hero type skills, and placing them in completely crazy and unbelievable situations -- yet somehow making you think "yes, I think that an ice cream truck equipped with ground-to-air missiles could exist." March and Island between them have gifts of brilliance, brawn, and firepower, but they also have very real vulnerabilities that endear them to the reader. That's what keeps you rooting for them book after book. The series finale does not disappoint. Even better, it is all the reasons why I loved books 1-4 shoe-horned into one final adventure.
The book gives us a glimpse of how March and Island work together as both a couple and business associates, which is a delight as they overcame so much to get to this point. But more than just a re-cap of the first 4 books, or quick visits to wrap up story lines into neat and tidy packages, book 5 is like a crazy vacation with your best friends and your favorite, but crazy relatives. There's enough "new" material to keep you turning the pages but you get to enjoy March and Island in their "togetherness" that they worked so hard to reach.
I just love reading Ms. Monks books and writings. It is rare to find an author whose work makes me snort-laugh one minute, and the next I'm googling Ekranoplan videos on youtube. If you are new to her work...I beg you to start at the beginning and enjoy getting to know March and Island. If you are already fans, one-click already and get ready to go on one last fantastic adventure!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was lucky enough to discover the Spotless Series a few years ago and was immediately hooked by both the memorable characters of March and Island, but also by the brilliant writing of Ms. Monk. She has a gift of combining characters that have extremely real and relatable traits, giving them super-hero type skills, and placing them in completely crazy and unbelievable situations -- yet somehow making you think "yes, I think that an ice cream truck equipped with ground-to-air missiles could exist." March and Island between them have gifts of brilliance, brawn, and firepower, but they also have very real vulnerabilities that endear them to the reader. That's what keeps you rooting for them book after book. The series finale does not disappoint. Even better, it is all the reasons why I loved books 1-4 shoe-horned into one final adventure.
The book gives us a glimpse of how March and Island work together as both a couple and business associates, which is a delight as they overcame so much to get to this point. But more than just a re-cap of the first 4 books, or quick visits to wrap up story lines into neat and tidy packages, book 5 is like a crazy vacation with your best friends and your favorite, but crazy relatives. There's enough "new" material to keep you turning the pages but you get to enjoy March and Island in their "togetherness" that they worked so hard to reach.
I just love reading Ms. Monks books and writings. It is rare to find an author whose work makes me snort-laugh one minute, and the next I'm googling Ekranoplan videos on youtube. If you are new to her work...I beg you to start at the beginning and enjoy getting to know March and Island. If you are already fans, one-click already and get ready to go on one last fantastic adventure!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2020
Another fun installment in the Spotless series. Action, adventure, mystery and romance...what more could you ask for? March is one of my favorite heroes. Camilla Monk has written these engaging and entertaining characters that lend a depth and reality to the story. I could happily read a new Island Chaptal story every year for the rest of my life. This series is full of the fantastical and fun, and it's guaranteed to make you think and make you smile. Can't wait to check out the audio on this one!
March 3, 2024
Dnf @ 67%
I only read the parts that I liked lol
I only read the parts that I liked lol
January 29, 2025
i love them ❤️🩹
August 31, 2020
✨ 4.5 stars! ✨
May 15, 2021
I am so so so so so sad to see this series come to an end. I want another epilogue. PLEASE
March 20, 2023
A solid finish for a fun and adventurous series. I enjoyed the plot, the doodles, and the characters. I feel content knowing this is the end of the series. This entire series is full of quirks, intelligence, subtle humor that I love, and characters I care about. There are outrageous moments that are so ridiculous that I can't help but love going along for the ride. I hope this becomes an audiobook because I love the series narrator and read this book in her voices.
January 7, 2021
Now this is a great ending to this series. Aliens, homicidal sloths, Ecuadorian arms dealer with a degree in classics and of course March and Island and that sociopath Stiles and his cat. One of my favorite series ever.
May 12, 2020
March and Island are back! This book is everything I look for in a read. Excitement, romance, adventure and so much humor. I swear Camilla Monk has the best sense of humor and it shines through her writing. March and Island are tasked with helping Joy. She was confronting and ex and that ended up setting her up for something. So of course Island is gonna help her best friend and by extension March will be there. I loved seeing March and Island interact. We got more intimate moments and the love they share is so clear and beautiful. On top of that we get Joy, and that girl is crazy and I love her. Add Angel, Logan, The Miami Vice theme, chest hair and the crazy and interesting plot and you have the perfect read! I did get a little emotional because I loved Dries so there were some bittersweet parts. I loved the glimpses of other favorite characters and can't wait to see what's in store for them. Pick this up, but read books 1-4 first, you will not regret it! Definitely top of my favorite reads and favorite series list. I was given the opportunity to read a copy of this book.
May 11, 2020
First, can I just say the drawings are EveryThing!! I was cracking up through that whole scene, and they just made my stomach hurt more. Also? The chapters that begin with quotes from a Manila Clonk cracked me up too :D
Alright, much like the other books in this series, I loved this one. It's seriously non-stop action. (I think I may have gotten confused at a couple points, but quickly caught back up)
I'm just so freaking sad knowing this is the last one. I didn't want to ever see this horrible, horrible day, but here it is. In front of my face.
I don't like it...
So, I'm off to buy the audiobook from her site (excited about THAT tidbit too) even tho, sadness.
Final thoughts? Sloths are assholes. Yes, I said it. If I ever see one, I'm going the other way.
Read the series - you won't regret it.
Thank you Camilla Monk for giving me an ARC - I'm happy, sad and slightly appalled that sloths ARE such assholes.
Alright, much like the other books in this series, I loved this one. It's seriously non-stop action. (I think I may have gotten confused at a couple points, but quickly caught back up)
I'm just so freaking sad knowing this is the last one. I didn't want to ever see this horrible, horrible day, but here it is. In front of my face.
I don't like it...
So, I'm off to buy the audiobook from her site (excited about THAT tidbit too) even tho, sadness.
Final thoughts? Sloths are assholes. Yes, I said it. If I ever see one, I'm going the other way.
Read the series - you won't regret it.
Thank you Camilla Monk for giving me an ARC - I'm happy, sad and slightly appalled that sloths ARE such assholes.
May 8, 2020
What a wonderful ride this series has been! I can't believe it is OVER (crying). I am thankful for Camilla giving us this extra book about March & Island. My only wish is to have some scenes from March's POV (I am not above begging...)
While working a job with March, Island is alerted to the fact her BFF Joy has flown to Mexico to confront her cheating boyfriend. It results in Joy landing in jail and to help her they ask Antonio to bail her out. Things however don't work out like they would have wanted and soon they are all involved in a new adventure featuring a murderous sloth, the Concorde and lots of shooting and bombings. YES! I won't divulge anymore. Just read it and LOVE.
Fortunately there is also time for a bit of romance and I also felt my heartstrings with Island's dreams. You must read it for yourself. I can't wait for this one to drop and have reserved my digital copy.
While working a job with March, Island is alerted to the fact her BFF Joy has flown to Mexico to confront her cheating boyfriend. It results in Joy landing in jail and to help her they ask Antonio to bail her out. Things however don't work out like they would have wanted and soon they are all involved in a new adventure featuring a murderous sloth, the Concorde and lots of shooting and bombings. YES! I won't divulge anymore. Just read it and LOVE.
Fortunately there is also time for a bit of romance and I also felt my heartstrings with Island's dreams. You must read it for yourself. I can't wait for this one to drop and have reserved my digital copy.
May 11, 2020
It doesn't matter how long this book has been in the making, I still had goosebumps as I read the first few pages. From the opening gambit of '...fight crime. With crime', through the hamster shifter quotes to the smurfs reference, this book is on par with what I'd come to expect from the rest of the series. I felt like it moved at a slower pace than the other books, in hindsight I'm not sure why I got that impression, but it was no bad thing. The interactions between now familiar characters were much more involved and it gave you time to savour the dialogue and appreciate the wonderful oddness. As another reviewer said, I'm sad to have reached the end of March and Island's stories, but what a way to go!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2020
The best book I have read since her previous! Brilliantly written, with classic Camilla Monk tongue in cheek humour. This is the last of her March and Island series which is such a shame, but I guess bowing out when your on top of your game is always the best option, especially when it’s as gripping as this, I binge read this in a night!
An oddity amongst any romance/action books I have ever read, she writes (in this series) fabulous tales of adventure, mystery, and fun set in exotic locales that capture you from the start.
I urge you to start at the first of the 5 book series, ‘Spotless’ and I guarantee you’ll binge read the rest obsessively!
Warning: this book contains images of Sloths that may upset some readers 😉
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An oddity amongst any romance/action books I have ever read, she writes (in this series) fabulous tales of adventure, mystery, and fun set in exotic locales that capture you from the start.
I urge you to start at the first of the 5 book series, ‘Spotless’ and I guarantee you’ll binge read the rest obsessively!
Warning: this book contains images of Sloths that may upset some readers 😉
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2020
This review is also posted on my blog: http://www.loveserially.wordpress.com
Overall Rating: 4
Quick Summary: Island Chaptal thought her life was settling into a kind of routine with her boyfriend, March November. Life was never gonna be mundane, not with a security company to run, but when Island’s best friend, Joy, gets thrown in jail and Joy’s ex-boyfriend is killed, Island and March's plans are thrown out the window and they are once again crisscrossing the world to try to save innocent lives. Aliens, pyramids, and sloths are all involved to one hilarious degree or another.
This has been one of my favorite series, primarily because the brand of humor Camilla Monk has is a unique mixture of tongue-in-cheek and out-of-this-world craziness. Her books are the pinnacle of escapism and this story couldn’t have come at a better time.
The relationship between Island and March is beautifully subtle and it anchors the entire plot. No matter how strange and over-the-top the secondary storylines are, Island and March bring a sweetness to the whole book that make this a pleasure to read.
Joy and Angel are also hilarious and I would LOVE for them to have their own book. According to Twitter, Monk does not have plans for a spinoff, but if enough of us petition her, maybe there’s a chance (hint: go bother her on twitter).
Since this review has been sparse on details, other than I love the characters of this book, I will tell you that the writing is strong, dialogue flows smoothly, and the plot has enough twists that I seriously thought we were going to go off into another subgenre. Sadly, I will never be able to enjoy sloths in quite the same way as before reading this book, but it’s a small price to pay for reading a really good book.
Is it worth buying? (Kindle $3.99)
Yes, you really need to read this book. If it means buying it, buy it. If it means borrowing it, force your library to buy it. If it means stealing it… don’t steal it. Book piracy is very bad and I frown heavily on it (not kidding at all).
Something else you might enjoy:
You need to read the entire series. So, settle in for 5 books of crazy fun, with an emphasis on the crazy.
*I received a free copy of this book, for reasons that are beyond me. It did not influence my opinion and I voluntarily decided to share with you my thoughts on this book.
Overall Rating: 4
Quick Summary: Island Chaptal thought her life was settling into a kind of routine with her boyfriend, March November. Life was never gonna be mundane, not with a security company to run, but when Island’s best friend, Joy, gets thrown in jail and Joy’s ex-boyfriend is killed, Island and March's plans are thrown out the window and they are once again crisscrossing the world to try to save innocent lives. Aliens, pyramids, and sloths are all involved to one hilarious degree or another.
This has been one of my favorite series, primarily because the brand of humor Camilla Monk has is a unique mixture of tongue-in-cheek and out-of-this-world craziness. Her books are the pinnacle of escapism and this story couldn’t have come at a better time.
The relationship between Island and March is beautifully subtle and it anchors the entire plot. No matter how strange and over-the-top the secondary storylines are, Island and March bring a sweetness to the whole book that make this a pleasure to read.
Joy and Angel are also hilarious and I would LOVE for them to have their own book. According to Twitter, Monk does not have plans for a spinoff, but if enough of us petition her, maybe there’s a chance (hint: go bother her on twitter).
Since this review has been sparse on details, other than I love the characters of this book, I will tell you that the writing is strong, dialogue flows smoothly, and the plot has enough twists that I seriously thought we were going to go off into another subgenre. Sadly, I will never be able to enjoy sloths in quite the same way as before reading this book, but it’s a small price to pay for reading a really good book.
Is it worth buying? (Kindle $3.99)
Yes, you really need to read this book. If it means buying it, buy it. If it means borrowing it, force your library to buy it. If it means stealing it… don’t steal it. Book piracy is very bad and I frown heavily on it (not kidding at all).
Something else you might enjoy:
You need to read the entire series. So, settle in for 5 books of crazy fun, with an emphasis on the crazy.
*I received a free copy of this book, for reasons that are beyond me. It did not influence my opinion and I voluntarily decided to share with you my thoughts on this book.
May 6, 2020
This much anticipated finale to the Spotless series is a delight.
One of the many things I love about Monk’s writing is that her characters develop and change, in satisfying ways. She is not afraid to write a HAE, and then have the characters continue to have adventures and grow together, but not in a soppy or necessarily traditional way.
Another aspect of her writing is her attention to the side characters, so that when - as in this book - they get to step forward, the earlier developments get to shine.
I found this book very satisfying - the various plot lines were tied up, we got to see how Island and March were, and there some great comic and witty flourishes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One of the many things I love about Monk’s writing is that her characters develop and change, in satisfying ways. She is not afraid to write a HAE, and then have the characters continue to have adventures and grow together, but not in a soppy or necessarily traditional way.
Another aspect of her writing is her attention to the side characters, so that when - as in this book - they get to step forward, the earlier developments get to shine.
I found this book very satisfying - the various plot lines were tied up, we got to see how Island and March were, and there some great comic and witty flourishes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 18, 2020
So happy that March and Island are back. The hamster incident left me crying so hard I was in tears. But you have to read the other books to get the full joke. Mr. November (or March as everyone who's read the books knows him by) is a retired assassin who runs a security firm and his girlfriend Island (a former client) does all his computer stuff. Her best friend gets in trouble and it's March and Island to the rescue. It also includes killer sloths, conspiracy theories, secret societies, and aliens. Ms. Monk has outdone herself. And I didn't think anything could outdo the carnivorous platypi.
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