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The Soul Summoner #4
The Taken
Sloan Jordan’s days are numbered. She has 139 to be exact. In that time, there’s a lot to do: a missing friend to find, a wedding to plan, and her own murder plot to overthrow.
When a lead takes the crew back to Chicago, the truth they uncover is more shocking than they ever imagined—to fight the enemies of the present, they must first face the demons from the past.
When a lead takes the crew back to Chicago, the truth they uncover is more shocking than they ever imagined—to fight the enemies of the present, they must first face the demons from the past.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2017
1269 people are currently reading
875 people want to read
About the author
Elicia Hyder
28 books1,120 followersElicia Hyder is a bestselling author of paranormal suspense and contemporary romance. You can get a FREE eBOOK by clicking this link: Get The Detective for FREE.
When I'm not writing, I can be found sipping craft beer in my blow-up swimming pool or beating my children at Harry Potter ⚡ trivia. I am married to a superhero and have two dogs with severe separation anxiety. I suck at CAPTCHA puzzles and firmly believe that heaven will have heavy metal music. ✌
When I'm not writing, I can be found sipping craft beer in my blow-up swimming pool or beating my children at Harry Potter ⚡ trivia. I am married to a superhero and have two dogs with severe separation anxiety. I suck at CAPTCHA puzzles and firmly believe that heaven will have heavy metal music. ✌
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
April 7, 2025
✅ Funny moments
✅ Characters
✅ Pace
✅ Action
✅ Romance is progressing
✅(🆗) Plot
🆗 Not enough Nate in this book
❗️❗️ Kind of cliffhanger
3.5 stars
_______________________
Second read: I mean, I love Warren, but the last book and this one made me realize that I was on Nate’s team. The first half of this book also felt a little long, but it did pick up in the last part.
_______________________
Life continues to be hectic and crazy for Sloan, with a daily dose of angels, demons, near-death situations, and funny moments. As she is trying to go through her pregnancy without too many complications, she also needs to plan her wedding with the help of Adrianne and train her angelic abilities. There are also the matters of her mom trying to kill humanity and Taiya being unaccounted for that need to be solved, and things only get more complicated as she and Warren realize that Azriel has been lying to them since the beginning.
This series has been a roller-coaster ride since book one. As soon as a problem is resolved or partially resolved, another threat pops up, and it’s always up to Sloan and her guys to save the day. There is also a good dose of funny and cute moments, and I can’t get enough of this crazy gang. Reuel is also growing up on me, he gets funnier with every book even though he says about 3 sentences in each book.
Even though I’m Team Nate, and I’m sad that he got his heart broken (more than once), I’m still happy that he manages to keep a good relationship with Sloan and Warren, and I love the weird friendship he has with Warren. Sadly though, we didn’t see enough of Nate in this book. At all. I am not happy about that, I need my dose of Captain Skittles. Warren is a good guy and could probably be considered as Sloan’s “soulmate”, but he felt more distant in this book, and I just really like regular guy Nate. I want him to have his HEA.
While being funny in his way, Azriel was also definitely shady and suspicious in The Death Angel. The secrets and scheming continue in this book, and even though I’m glad that we got to know more of him, and we now understand better his position and his motivations, his lying and secrets pissed me off big time. All the trouble it brought! I understand that he was trying to do what he thought was best, but the lying has to stop! I want to be able to trust him, because I loved his grumpy daddy-in-law vibe, and I don’t want him to get pushed aside because of his shady bullshit.
I also feel that I should have seen the ending coming, but for some reason, I did not, and it completely took me by surprise. Even though I’m excited to see what will happen next, a part of me is a little scared because I feel that things could easily go in a direction that I will not enjoy (honestly I am afraid how the plot will change with the birth of Sloan’s baby coming in the next book, probably), and I want to continue enjoying this series…
0.5 The Detective ⭐⭐⭐
1. The Soul Summoner ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. The Siren ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. The Angel of Death ⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Characters
✅ Pace
✅ Action
✅ Romance is progressing
✅(🆗) Plot
🆗 Not enough Nate in this book
❗️❗️ Kind of cliffhanger
3.5 stars
_______________________
Second read: I mean, I love Warren, but the last book and this one made me realize that I was on Nate’s team. The first half of this book also felt a little long, but it did pick up in the last part.
_______________________
"And it's definitely not going to be like Hollywood."
"How do you know?" I asked.
"Because the last six months of my life would make one hell of a blockbuster."
Life continues to be hectic and crazy for Sloan, with a daily dose of angels, demons, near-death situations, and funny moments. As she is trying to go through her pregnancy without too many complications, she also needs to plan her wedding with the help of Adrianne and train her angelic abilities. There are also the matters of her mom trying to kill humanity and Taiya being unaccounted for that need to be solved, and things only get more complicated as she and Warren realize that Azriel has been lying to them since the beginning.
This series has been a roller-coaster ride since book one. As soon as a problem is resolved or partially resolved, another threat pops up, and it’s always up to Sloan and her guys to save the day. There is also a good dose of funny and cute moments, and I can’t get enough of this crazy gang. Reuel is also growing up on me, he gets funnier with every book even though he says about 3 sentences in each book.
Warren continued. "Whatever the details, the first time he saw me, he wanted to kill me."
Nathan laughed and raised his beer. "Some days I still do."
Warren clinked his bottle with Nathan's. "Likewise." He looked back around at all of us. "The truth is, Nate and I are supposed to hate each other. We were certainly never meant to be friends. And while our friendship is rocky at best sometimes, there's no one in this world I trust more."
Even though I’m Team Nate, and I’m sad that he got his heart broken (more than once), I’m still happy that he manages to keep a good relationship with Sloan and Warren, and I love the weird friendship he has with Warren. Sadly though, we didn’t see enough of Nate in this book. At all. I am not happy about that, I need my dose of Captain Skittles. Warren is a good guy and could probably be considered as Sloan’s “soulmate”, but he felt more distant in this book, and I just really like regular guy Nate. I want him to have his HEA.
"I'm afraid of Azrael, but I'm even more afraid of not having him around."
While being funny in his way, Azriel was also definitely shady and suspicious in The Death Angel. The secrets and scheming continue in this book, and even though I’m glad that we got to know more of him, and we now understand better his position and his motivations, his lying and secrets pissed me off big time. All the trouble it brought! I understand that he was trying to do what he thought was best, but the lying has to stop! I want to be able to trust him, because I loved his grumpy daddy-in-law vibe, and I don’t want him to get pushed aside because of his shady bullshit.
"I figure I can lie here all day feeling sorry for myself, or I can get to work and maybe try to learn something before Satan comes to kill me."
I also feel that I should have seen the ending coming, but for some reason, I did not, and it completely took me by surprise. Even though I’m excited to see what will happen next, a part of me is a little scared because I feel that things could easily go in a direction that I will not enjoy (honestly I am afraid how the plot will change with the birth of Sloan’s baby coming in the next book, probably), and I want to continue enjoying this series…
0.5 The Detective ⭐⭐⭐
1. The Soul Summoner ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. The Siren ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. The Angel of Death ⭐⭐⭐.5
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June 7, 2017
This was my least favorite of the series mostly b/c I've begun to tire of Sloan's "sloan-ness". At first she was funny and quirky but by the 4th book she's beginning to read like she should be in a YA series. I just want to say "Grow the fuck up woman!" I mean seriously there are angels and shit battling it out, you're about to give birth to the most powerful angel ever or die if the big bad gets you first and you're reverting to elementary type antics.
I miss Nathan even though he has a presence. We get to understand Azrael a little more. Warren is still sizzling hot but a little more distant yet assertive with Sloan when he is around. This series is rather clean regarding sex and I must say with as well as the author writes sexual tension I expected more, not full on porn descriptions but just more.
The writing is really good, the story is fun and nail bitting at times and a quick read.
It's fun for me to read stories taking place in my home state so I enjoy that about the story as well.
I suppose in summary I just wanted a little more "adultness" that I didn't get from this one but overall a fun read and a great series.
I miss Nathan even though he has a presence. We get to understand Azrael a little more. Warren is still sizzling hot but a little more distant yet assertive with Sloan when he is around. This series is rather clean regarding sex and I must say with as well as the author writes sexual tension I expected more, not full on porn descriptions but just more.
The writing is really good, the story is fun and nail bitting at times and a quick read.
It's fun for me to read stories taking place in my home state so I enjoy that about the story as well.
I suppose in summary I just wanted a little more "adultness" that I didn't get from this one but overall a fun read and a great series.
March 3, 2018
3 stars
Audible version.
Cliffhanger ending.
Audible version.
Cliffhanger ending.
Read
January 11, 2021ok, Az, really could he have been more of an ass? Like he made things 10 times worse because he hid things from Sloan. I get why he didn't tell Warren, but he should have at least told Sloan the plan. also, this books really ramps up the tension. like i am going to have to binge read the rest because i don't know if i can stand it. And I really feel like i should have seen the ending coming, but I didn't.
April 11, 2019
Wow.... this book was wicked and even though we got some matters close and resolved, there's just so much more to come with this book.
This series so far is just outstanding.
It have it's lol moments that just cracks me up and then there are moments when I just want to put the cover over my face to hide from the intensity of this book.
Warning: Once you start this book series in locks you in and there's no escaping. So now poor souls like me that is so eager to read the next installment has to wait for Elicia Hyder to get it together and finish book 5.
God speed Elicia, please hurry, but don't forget to make GOOD!
This series so far is just outstanding.
It have it's lol moments that just cracks me up and then there are moments when I just want to put the cover over my face to hide from the intensity of this book.
Warning: Once you start this book series in locks you in and there's no escaping. So now poor souls like me that is so eager to read the next installment has to wait for Elicia Hyder to get it together and finish book 5.
God speed Elicia, please hurry, but don't forget to make GOOD!
April 20, 2017
The Taken by Elicia Hyder Book 4 in The Soul Summoner Series
Release Date;4/25
If I could give this book more then 5 stars I would...It wowed me, and had me turning the pages on my kindle so fast. To say it's fantastic, amazing, superb is putting it mildly. It was all that and more.
A new threat is out there. It's after Sloan, Warren and there unborn baby. She has to stop it with special gifts she has which are now getting stronger.
With the help of Warren her fiancé, his father the Angel of Death she will be prepared. Of course Nathan will help.
We shall see how it all plays out. What is to come will you leave you blindsided.
It will leave you wanting more.
Highly recommend and the rest in this series. Ms. Hyder's books are ones you won't be able to put down.
I was provided an early copy for an honest review.
Release Date;4/25
If I could give this book more then 5 stars I would...It wowed me, and had me turning the pages on my kindle so fast. To say it's fantastic, amazing, superb is putting it mildly. It was all that and more.
A new threat is out there. It's after Sloan, Warren and there unborn baby. She has to stop it with special gifts she has which are now getting stronger.
With the help of Warren her fiancé, his father the Angel of Death she will be prepared. Of course Nathan will help.
We shall see how it all plays out. What is to come will you leave you blindsided.
It will leave you wanting more.
Highly recommend and the rest in this series. Ms. Hyder's books are ones you won't be able to put down.
I was provided an early copy for an honest review.
November 23, 2019
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of The Taken. This is one of the best series that I have read in years. I read over 100 books a year written by many different authors and Elicia Hyder has written something unique that is not to be missed. However, you absolutely cannot start the series with The Taken. You would not understand the ongoing saga. You must begin Sloan Jordan's journey at the beginning with The Soul Summoner. You will be hooked and when your read all the books leading to this point you will not be disappointed with this installment. The journey for Sloan, Warren, Nathan, Adrianne and Azrael is complex and filled with surprises. Some good, some not. Anyone that is a fan of The Soul Summoner series does not want me to reveal plot spoilers. Just know that The Taken has arrived and will deliver everything that you have hoped for and more.
March 27, 2018
The Taken by Elicia Hyder
4th in the paranormal Summoner series. Best to read them in order.
The continuation of the fight of good versus evil. Angels and humans and hybrids protect Sloan and her unborn child from world destruction.
Dark but with small flashes of humor, Sloan struggles for a normal life in this episode.
Twisted truths or a deep convoluted plot make for surprises.
Cliffhanger which is the norm for urban fantasy.
4th in the paranormal Summoner series. Best to read them in order.
The continuation of the fight of good versus evil. Angels and humans and hybrids protect Sloan and her unborn child from world destruction.
Dark but with small flashes of humor, Sloan struggles for a normal life in this episode.
Twisted truths or a deep convoluted plot make for surprises.
Cliffhanger which is the norm for urban fantasy.
April 23, 2017
I began my journey with Ms Hyder grabbing a copy of "Soul Summoner" through Instafreebie, then a run to her website got me a free download of Nate's story ("The Detective") and thus began my addiction with Sloan, Nate and Warren.
This series is a true enigma as it pulls and pushes you simultaneously with its compelling, nerve wracking and enjoyably fun style. It's also rather clean for you who are not into the hot and spicy, overly descriptive sexy scenes.
You are pulled into this odd mismatch of emotions and friendships that should raise your eyebrow with the insinuations of a love triangle yet the respect and love that underlines this dynamic between Sloan, Warren and Nate is accepted as there is a trust that is as delicate as it is the strength that keeps them close. In this journey we spend much of the early part of this book rolling with laughter at Sloan's smart aleck behaviour and banter with Adrianne (her BFF) and the gentle jabs between the crew. Our little group has grown from the last installment and Sloan, now pregnant with Warren's super baby, has to be protected and coaxed to grow and develop her skills so their future (as much as ours... us mere humans on earth) is secure. We have Azreal, Warren's Dad and Archangel; Reuel, also an Angel but refuses to speak English, and some regualr and not so regular characters who pop in and out throughout.
I truly love how you become enfolded into their lives as if we are among their tight unit and as we enjoy the back and forth banter and teasing fun we feel along with them as they go through the strains and stresses of being the saving grace for us all. I laughed and cried and winced and cringed as chapter after chapter we are drawn to meet with ultimate doom and with every step we encounter twists and turns you really don't expect so you are thrown for a loop only to be spun around and careen towards a more dastardly or nerve racking situation.
Please be aware people to be prepared to invest in this as a series, so yes every book ends on a cliffhanger that leads you to salivate to get the next one and truthfully it is well worth the fun and time to spend encased in this somewhat prophetic, and although fantastical world, it gives you so much more and is by no means a fairy tale but a true suspense filled, action packed escape into the mind and creativity of Ms Hyder.
I just love her style and this journey is truly addicting. I am eagerly awaiting what happens next ... it's like Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings and rolled into one... EPIC!!!!
"I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own."
This series is a true enigma as it pulls and pushes you simultaneously with its compelling, nerve wracking and enjoyably fun style. It's also rather clean for you who are not into the hot and spicy, overly descriptive sexy scenes.
You are pulled into this odd mismatch of emotions and friendships that should raise your eyebrow with the insinuations of a love triangle yet the respect and love that underlines this dynamic between Sloan, Warren and Nate is accepted as there is a trust that is as delicate as it is the strength that keeps them close. In this journey we spend much of the early part of this book rolling with laughter at Sloan's smart aleck behaviour and banter with Adrianne (her BFF) and the gentle jabs between the crew. Our little group has grown from the last installment and Sloan, now pregnant with Warren's super baby, has to be protected and coaxed to grow and develop her skills so their future (as much as ours... us mere humans on earth) is secure. We have Azreal, Warren's Dad and Archangel; Reuel, also an Angel but refuses to speak English, and some regualr and not so regular characters who pop in and out throughout.
I truly love how you become enfolded into their lives as if we are among their tight unit and as we enjoy the back and forth banter and teasing fun we feel along with them as they go through the strains and stresses of being the saving grace for us all. I laughed and cried and winced and cringed as chapter after chapter we are drawn to meet with ultimate doom and with every step we encounter twists and turns you really don't expect so you are thrown for a loop only to be spun around and careen towards a more dastardly or nerve racking situation.
Please be aware people to be prepared to invest in this as a series, so yes every book ends on a cliffhanger that leads you to salivate to get the next one and truthfully it is well worth the fun and time to spend encased in this somewhat prophetic, and although fantastical world, it gives you so much more and is by no means a fairy tale but a true suspense filled, action packed escape into the mind and creativity of Ms Hyder.
I just love her style and this journey is truly addicting. I am eagerly awaiting what happens next ... it's like Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings and rolled into one... EPIC!!!!
"I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own."
February 4, 2019
Great series and narration by Brittany Pressley (audible review)
Love this series. Its fun, has great characters and character development. Angels and Demons are on the rise!
Again I don't want to give to much away but I do recommend this series, especially for paranormal fans.
The narration is absolutely amazing and I love it! It makes these stories even better with such a great narrator. Brittany Pressley does a fantastic job on all the male voices and gives everyone their own distinct voice. She has an amazing reading voice as well. Love her narrations!
Love this series. Its fun, has great characters and character development. Angels and Demons are on the rise!
Again I don't want to give to much away but I do recommend this series, especially for paranormal fans.
The narration is absolutely amazing and I love it! It makes these stories even better with such a great narrator. Brittany Pressley does a fantastic job on all the male voices and gives everyone their own distinct voice. She has an amazing reading voice as well. Love her narrations!
April 25, 2017
In the ongoing battle between good and evil, humans and spirits, Sloan, Warren, and company get closer to the final siege. Alternating humor with cosmic warfare, Hyder skillfully weaves a tale of love and war - and an engagement like no other.
July 17, 2017
Disappointed. I'm so over Sloan's childish behaviour. It was funny at the start of the series, but geez chick, grow up, you have so many other things going on, stop being a brat. It's tiresome.
March 6, 2018
Wow! I know I keep saying it, but with each book the story gets better and better. I can’t get enough of Sloan, Nathan, and Warren. I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next installment!
June 12, 2021
Even though I said I wasn't going to do it, I did it anyway. What you ask? Well, I started this series a LONG time ago....years. Well, at least books 1 and 2. Then I came back and read book 3, but since I hadn't written a review for the first two books - I had no idea what the series was about, nor did I remember all of the details. As the book went along, I started to remember, but still things were fuzzy.
Book 3 was good. Really good and I was thinking that if I remembered the first two books, it probably would have been even better. So I decided that I would go forward and stay with the series.
Oh well. What is that saying about good intentions...? Now, another year has gone by...seriously 12 months.....along with probably 1,000 books and what did I do? I realized that I was supposed to keep going on the series - actually, the truth of it was that I read Elicia Hyder's new series Detached and was COMPLETELY blown away - so it made me look for more things to read by her and guess what I found? I already HAD something by her to read...Long story short, back to book 4.
As usual, I was pretty lost for the beginning, then I just decided, stop trying to figure everything out, just enjoy what you are reading. And I did.
I alternated between listening and reading and did not have any problems with the narration. I enjoyed this book. It didn't take long before I remembered why I liked this author so much. About the story arc, I got the basics, even if I've forgotten the details. Warren and Sloan are having a baby. The baby is part of some really big prophecy. Nathan is their friend, even though Sloan and Nathan had something going on as well (maybe?)- but not anymore. Warren's dad used to be a good guy, then a bad guy, then? The wedding is coming up, the baby is going to be powerful and now Sloan has super powers. What more do you need?
So, this time I made sure I had the next book - both in audio and eBook already downloaded so I can just keep going. At this point, there are 9 books in this series. Not even halfway yet.....is that good or bad?
Book 3 was good. Really good and I was thinking that if I remembered the first two books, it probably would have been even better. So I decided that I would go forward and stay with the series.
Oh well. What is that saying about good intentions...? Now, another year has gone by...seriously 12 months.....along with probably 1,000 books and what did I do? I realized that I was supposed to keep going on the series - actually, the truth of it was that I read Elicia Hyder's new series Detached and was COMPLETELY blown away - so it made me look for more things to read by her and guess what I found? I already HAD something by her to read...Long story short, back to book 4.
As usual, I was pretty lost for the beginning, then I just decided, stop trying to figure everything out, just enjoy what you are reading. And I did.
I alternated between listening and reading and did not have any problems with the narration. I enjoyed this book. It didn't take long before I remembered why I liked this author so much. About the story arc, I got the basics, even if I've forgotten the details. Warren and Sloan are having a baby. The baby is part of some really big prophecy. Nathan is their friend, even though Sloan and Nathan had something going on as well (maybe?)- but not anymore. Warren's dad used to be a good guy, then a bad guy, then? The wedding is coming up, the baby is going to be powerful and now Sloan has super powers. What more do you need?
So, this time I made sure I had the next book - both in audio and eBook already downloaded so I can just keep going. At this point, there are 9 books in this series. Not even halfway yet.....is that good or bad?
February 17, 2019
Becoming one of favourite UF series
This series is flying along at lightning speed. In The Taken we learn much more about cosmic fight that Sloan is in the middle of. The book is absolutely stuffed to the brim with action. The cast is getting bigger and the plot is certainly getting more complicated, but it’s still fantastic.
This series is flying along at lightning speed. In The Taken we learn much more about cosmic fight that Sloan is in the middle of. The book is absolutely stuffed to the brim with action. The cast is getting bigger and the plot is certainly getting more complicated, but it’s still fantastic.
March 22, 2019
I love it!! I feel like I'm going through the pregnancy too!!
January 4, 2018
Well crap! I did it again. I unknowingly started a series that hasn't been completed. Oh well, I just pre-ordered book 5 of the series and have a few months to wait. Bummer.
I'm totally captivated by this story and these characters. I love them and can't wait to see what is next.
Audible: I added the whispersync audible narration to this kindle book. It was the same narrator as the prior 3 books in the series. She did a good job.
I'm totally captivated by this story and these characters. I love them and can't wait to see what is next.
Audible: I added the whispersync audible narration to this kindle book. It was the same narrator as the prior 3 books in the series. She did a good job.
April 5, 2018
The fourth book in the Soul Summoner series by Elicia Hyder was a disaster.
It lacked professionalism on several levels.
In retrospect the whole series is a catastrophe. Nothing is professionally though through to perfection, it is at times more than sloppy and idiotic.
The characterisation of the protagonists and their angelic abilities are inconsistent at best. At the beginning supernatural abilities are introduced and used, then they are suddenly forgotten. Warrens abilities are never shown up again, after the incident with Samael. It is only ever Sloan who really uses her described supernatural abilities. And hers are not even better than those of the others, if the previous descriptions are to believed. The abilities are used randomly and mostly when they are helping the plot along but then they are completely forgotten and are not seen again. When Warren turns from an half angle into a full angle, his abilities are not mentioned ever again. Not even if they evolved or changed.
Or another example of the characterisation or lack of:
On a fundamental basis, someone with healing powers can nit together broken bones, inner organs and skin, in a blink of an eye. But is apparently not able to heal soft tissue damage like swelling and bruises. That makes no sense.
But not only the characterisations lack of consistency but also the plot. Whole plot threads are at times baseless, not fully thought trough and conducted to a conclusion. Sometimes they are introduced, and then as abruptly forgotten as they appeared. For example:
The whole creation of a sexual transmitted disease by an antibiotic resistant bacterium used as Biological Warfare is the silliest and dumbest thing I have read in a long time. From a biological, medical and warfare point of view. Besides that it served no bloody purpose in the plot, only to have a wild goose chase around Chicago where Sloan gets badly injured, again. The supposedly infected girls are shortly and dramatically mentioned, with a strong urge and conviction of the leading character to save them all, to be shortly after forgotten and don't appear or were mentioned again till the end. Where you get told that the FBI solved it. Kaboom.
I could point out countless more inconsistencies throughout the 4 books, concerning the plot and the characteristics. But i am through with this series. I was really bloody bored to not stop earlier, as it got worse from one book to the next. Book 5 is out of the picture for me. As again, the last words of book 4 didn't match the blurb of book 5 and showed again sloppiness and the details for me.
It lacked professionalism on several levels.
In retrospect the whole series is a catastrophe. Nothing is professionally though through to perfection, it is at times more than sloppy and idiotic.
The characterisation of the protagonists and their angelic abilities are inconsistent at best. At the beginning supernatural abilities are introduced and used, then they are suddenly forgotten. Warrens abilities are never shown up again, after the incident with Samael. It is only ever Sloan who really uses her described supernatural abilities. And hers are not even better than those of the others, if the previous descriptions are to believed. The abilities are used randomly and mostly when they are helping the plot along but then they are completely forgotten and are not seen again. When Warren turns from an half angle into a full angle, his abilities are not mentioned ever again. Not even if they evolved or changed.
Or another example of the characterisation or lack of:
On a fundamental basis, someone with healing powers can nit together broken bones, inner organs and skin, in a blink of an eye. But is apparently not able to heal soft tissue damage like swelling and bruises. That makes no sense.
But not only the characterisations lack of consistency but also the plot. Whole plot threads are at times baseless, not fully thought trough and conducted to a conclusion. Sometimes they are introduced, and then as abruptly forgotten as they appeared. For example:
The whole creation of a sexual transmitted disease by an antibiotic resistant bacterium used as Biological Warfare is the silliest and dumbest thing I have read in a long time. From a biological, medical and warfare point of view. Besides that it served no bloody purpose in the plot, only to have a wild goose chase around Chicago where Sloan gets badly injured, again. The supposedly infected girls are shortly and dramatically mentioned, with a strong urge and conviction of the leading character to save them all, to be shortly after forgotten and don't appear or were mentioned again till the end. Where you get told that the FBI solved it. Kaboom.
I could point out countless more inconsistencies throughout the 4 books, concerning the plot and the characteristics. But i am through with this series. I was really bloody bored to not stop earlier, as it got worse from one book to the next. Book 5 is out of the picture for me. As again, the last words of book 4 didn't match the blurb of book 5 and showed again sloppiness and the details for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2017
I can’t tell you how much I’m enjoying this series –a soon as I start the first page I’m right back there with the characters as if I’d never been away.
Sloan is living under a countdown to her death – as soon as the baby she is carrying is born. The Morning Star wants that child, and he’s going to take it. As if being up against Lucifer isn’t enough of a challenge, Sloan’s soon-to-be father-in-law, Azrael, the Angel of Death, has his own agenda, and while keeping Sloan and the baby protected is right up there, who knows what else he has in mind? Certainly not Sloan.
While I expected this book to race ahead to the imminent event, it surprised me (in a good way) by dealing with the earlier days of Sloan’s pregnancy, as old enemies and new threats appear. I was totally hooked as events unfolded – not fast, because these tales take the time to breathe and explore real life right alongside the paranormal, and that’s one of the captivating things about Hyder’s writing, along with her ability to make you feel as though you are right there in the room with her characters. There is still room for humour, and relationships, despite the threat hanging over Sloan, and that makes for a relaxed and enjoyable read right alongside the increasing tension. And oh, what a killer last line! Can’t wait for the next one.
If you haven’t started this series yet, get the first book – while each stands alone, they will make much more sense if you read them in order.
Sloan is living under a countdown to her death – as soon as the baby she is carrying is born. The Morning Star wants that child, and he’s going to take it. As if being up against Lucifer isn’t enough of a challenge, Sloan’s soon-to-be father-in-law, Azrael, the Angel of Death, has his own agenda, and while keeping Sloan and the baby protected is right up there, who knows what else he has in mind? Certainly not Sloan.
While I expected this book to race ahead to the imminent event, it surprised me (in a good way) by dealing with the earlier days of Sloan’s pregnancy, as old enemies and new threats appear. I was totally hooked as events unfolded – not fast, because these tales take the time to breathe and explore real life right alongside the paranormal, and that’s one of the captivating things about Hyder’s writing, along with her ability to make you feel as though you are right there in the room with her characters. There is still room for humour, and relationships, despite the threat hanging over Sloan, and that makes for a relaxed and enjoyable read right alongside the increasing tension. And oh, what a killer last line! Can’t wait for the next one.
If you haven’t started this series yet, get the first book – while each stands alone, they will make much more sense if you read them in order.
April 28, 2017
I was kindly given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Cliffhanger ending, such a tease!!! But I love this series so much. So I will be patient and wait. Ms. Hyder assures us that book 5 is coming soon.
I wish that I had reread book 3 before reading this book. 9 months is a long time to remember all of the details of a story. You really need to read this series in order too. None of the books are standalone so don't read any farther if you have not read the previous books.
Sloan's pregnancy continues. Wedding plans continue. The search for the missing girls continues. The search for Kasyade continues. New characters are introduced. Secrets are revealed, including one really big one. There are humorous moments, scary moments and moments of life and death hanging in the balance. There are moments that make you cry and moments that are laugh out loud funny.
Random thoughts: Stay out of Chicago, bad stuff happens there. I wish that I had a rich, supernatural father-in-law. Azrael is the king of lies but does it for the good of all. Sharvelle Silvers is awesome. The Devil is an Angel too.
I love the characters that Ms. Hyder has created. I care about them. I love the voice that she has given them. I highly recommend this series and will do so long after it has run it's course.
Cliffhanger ending, such a tease!!! But I love this series so much. So I will be patient and wait. Ms. Hyder assures us that book 5 is coming soon.
I wish that I had reread book 3 before reading this book. 9 months is a long time to remember all of the details of a story. You really need to read this series in order too. None of the books are standalone so don't read any farther if you have not read the previous books.
Sloan's pregnancy continues. Wedding plans continue. The search for the missing girls continues. The search for Kasyade continues. New characters are introduced. Secrets are revealed, including one really big one. There are humorous moments, scary moments and moments of life and death hanging in the balance. There are moments that make you cry and moments that are laugh out loud funny.
Random thoughts: Stay out of Chicago, bad stuff happens there. I wish that I had a rich, supernatural father-in-law. Azrael is the king of lies but does it for the good of all. Sharvelle Silvers is awesome. The Devil is an Angel too.
I love the characters that Ms. Hyder has created. I care about them. I love the voice that she has given them. I highly recommend this series and will do so long after it has run it's course.
August 17, 2017
It gets even better as it goes
I swear, this series gets better and better the further along I get. And now I have to wait for the fifth book! I'm dying here, I need to know what happens next! I love/hate books that end on a cliffhanger like this one did. But it was oh so, so good. So many loose ends from the previous book were answered along with many more created- just enough to get you hooked, and then KEEP YOU HOOKED. Love, love, love this series. I think I have a new favorite author now.
I swear, this series gets better and better the further along I get. And now I have to wait for the fifth book! I'm dying here, I need to know what happens next! I love/hate books that end on a cliffhanger like this one did. But it was oh so, so good. So many loose ends from the previous book were answered along with many more created- just enough to get you hooked, and then KEEP YOU HOOKED. Love, love, love this series. I think I have a new favorite author now.
May 26, 2017
Loved it!!
I love this series! The characters grow in depth each book. The author writes with such detail and passion that you feel like you are in the book watching the scenes unfold. I am so glad I read the first book and can't wait to read the next. Keep up the amazing writing!
I love this series! The characters grow in depth each book. The author writes with such detail and passion that you feel like you are in the book watching the scenes unfold. I am so glad I read the first book and can't wait to read the next. Keep up the amazing writing!
March 18, 2021
I’m not very good at reviews but I’m loving this book series. I’m glad I don’t have to wait to start the next one because I’d be on the edge of my seat waiting especially after the way this one ends.
April 22, 2017
I liked this book. It was fast paced and jumped right into the action from the first page. I would recommend a reread of the series to refresh the story before tackling this one.
April 13, 2018
what an adventure....tears laughter surprise mouth dropping turns. AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME ....bring on next part ...excited for more
February 20, 2021
It was quite an easy read. Did not have too much twist and turns, that's what I like about this series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2017
I've enjoyed this series firstly for it's Asheville roots. And I always appreciate it when a follow-up (in a series) doesn't treat me like I'm new to to the party. I hate unnecessary recaps; we know, we were there, we're fans! This series never wastes time on the past; starts where we left off with just enough glimpses to keep you on track.
I love to escape reality for a while when I'm reading, but this one didn't let me do that, and here's why. I'm a nurse, my specialty being OB (obstetrics), currently High Risk OB is my niche. When a book centers around a pregnancy (a very high risk one), I not only feel like I'm at work, I feel like I'm reading a case study, or even worse find myself critiquing jargon and the like. For this reason, I took much longer to read this one than the others. I liked rather than loved this one, and that is no fault of the wonderful author's. You can feel the drama that is going to unfold the next one. Can't wait for what's next; and I truly hope that youngin' comes soon!
I love to escape reality for a while when I'm reading, but this one didn't let me do that, and here's why. I'm a nurse, my specialty being OB (obstetrics), currently High Risk OB is my niche. When a book centers around a pregnancy (a very high risk one), I not only feel like I'm at work, I feel like I'm reading a case study, or even worse find myself critiquing jargon and the like. For this reason, I took much longer to read this one than the others. I liked rather than loved this one, and that is no fault of the wonderful author's. You can feel the drama that is going to unfold the next one. Can't wait for what's next; and I truly hope that youngin' comes soon!
March 28, 2018
Well done
Before ‘The Taken,’ no book of this series has received a five star review from me. The main reason? I felt that the main protagonist, Sloan, wasn’t evolving. Through the first three books, she was too flip and too whiny. She didn’t seem to fully grasp or even believe the extraordinary things happening to and around her. Also, while threatening supernatural events escalated through the course of those books it often seemed that the least desirable aspects of her personality became more pronounced and more annoying.
This book however, sees substantial rising action and Sloan’s character evolves to meet and manage a pretty significant development. One of the things I really like about this author is her ability to turn the action of the story suddenly and without warning. The scene of Sloan’s transformation is stunning because it is an extraordinary event taking place amidst very ordinary action. It caught me off guard, was believable given the setup to this point and I loved it.
Bottom line: this is the best of the series so far.
Before ‘The Taken,’ no book of this series has received a five star review from me. The main reason? I felt that the main protagonist, Sloan, wasn’t evolving. Through the first three books, she was too flip and too whiny. She didn’t seem to fully grasp or even believe the extraordinary things happening to and around her. Also, while threatening supernatural events escalated through the course of those books it often seemed that the least desirable aspects of her personality became more pronounced and more annoying.
This book however, sees substantial rising action and Sloan’s character evolves to meet and manage a pretty significant development. One of the things I really like about this author is her ability to turn the action of the story suddenly and without warning. The scene of Sloan’s transformation is stunning because it is an extraordinary event taking place amidst very ordinary action. It caught me off guard, was believable given the setup to this point and I loved it.
Bottom line: this is the best of the series so far.
May 2, 2021
This series quickly nose-dived into a mess. The underlying ideas and mystery for the series had promise, but the story is just poorly written. The main character Sloane is a terrible person ... while also believing she's a good person.
We see her secretly healing people and somehow always runs across someone who needs healing. The situations she runs into gets increasingly random and forced. The cake knife on the little kid was particularly eyebrow-raising. However, if she really cared about helping people, I would think she would try healing people more, not just random people on a whim, like the guy from her dad's office. "BTW I can cure stage 4 cancer, but I'm only going to do it on this guy I sat next to once."
Romance. I enjoy a good threesome or a good love triangle, but the progression on this is terrible. No real build-up, and the love just happens.
Do not recommend.
We see her secretly healing people and somehow always runs across someone who needs healing. The situations she runs into gets increasingly random and forced. The cake knife on the little kid was particularly eyebrow-raising. However, if she really cared about helping people, I would think she would try healing people more, not just random people on a whim, like the guy from her dad's office. "BTW I can cure stage 4 cancer, but I'm only going to do it on this guy I sat next to once."
Romance. I enjoy a good threesome or a good love triangle, but the progression on this is terrible. No real build-up, and the love just happens.
Do not recommend.
May 25, 2017
I started reading the first book in this series just like any other books to see whats in there and to try an author who is new to my bookshelf. And then, BOOM... Elicia became one of my favourite authors list. God.. I was totally captivated by the plot and the fast moving story. The main characters Sloan, Warren and Nathan are amazing. Personally, I love Adrianne though. I wish I had a friendship like that. Funny, humour and Nail biting suspense throughout the series. And, the fourth book is just like the previous books. I cant put it down till I finish and ofcourse, its again a cliffhanger end. I am sure I am not going to sleep well for next couple of days thinking what will happen to Sloan's baby and how she will gain more power. I always love powerful women. Its a great series and can't wait for the next book.
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