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Alice Worth #6
Heart of Vengeance
When dealing with vampires, expect betrayal at every turn…
Mage private investigator Alice Worth’s life has changed dramatically. On the plus side, she has a new home to share with alpha werewolf Sean Maclin and her ghost sidekick Malcolm. She’s also gained an office with her name on the door, a fearsome ally, and dark magic inherited from a defeated enemy.
On the downside, a dire prophecy hangs over her head, she’s uncovered a terrible betrayal, and the new magic is killing her.
When the ancient head of the Vampire Court calls in a favor, Alice is forced to put aside her own problems to hunt a stolen treasure. She and Malcolm travel to realms full of wonders and nightmares in their pursuit of a thief consumed by need for vengeance. To survive and return home, they must rely on a motley group of highly unusual allies.
In pursuit of justice, Alice and Malcolm face many terrifying adversaries. Unfortunately, some are much closer to home than they could imagine…
Mage private investigator Alice Worth’s life has changed dramatically. On the plus side, she has a new home to share with alpha werewolf Sean Maclin and her ghost sidekick Malcolm. She’s also gained an office with her name on the door, a fearsome ally, and dark magic inherited from a defeated enemy.
On the downside, a dire prophecy hangs over her head, she’s uncovered a terrible betrayal, and the new magic is killing her.
When the ancient head of the Vampire Court calls in a favor, Alice is forced to put aside her own problems to hunt a stolen treasure. She and Malcolm travel to realms full of wonders and nightmares in their pursuit of a thief consumed by need for vengeance. To survive and return home, they must rely on a motley group of highly unusual allies.
In pursuit of justice, Alice and Malcolm face many terrifying adversaries. Unfortunately, some are much closer to home than they could imagine…
495 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2020
487 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Edmonds
26 books828 followersLisa Edmonds was born and raised in Kansas. She studied English and forensic criminology at Wichita State University. After acquiring her Bachelor’s degree, she considered a career in law enforcement as a behavioral analyst before earning a Master's from Wichita State and then a Ph.D. in English from Texas A&M University.
For ten years, she was an associate professor of English at a college in Texas, where she taught a variety of writing and literature courses.
Now a full-time author, she shares a cute little Victorian-style home called the Storybook House with her husband and their cats. She enjoys writing, reading, traveling, spoiling her niece and nephew, and singing karaoke.
For ten years, she was an associate professor of English at a college in Texas, where she taught a variety of writing and literature courses.
Now a full-time author, she shares a cute little Victorian-style home called the Storybook House with her husband and their cats. She enjoys writing, reading, traveling, spoiling her niece and nephew, and singing karaoke.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
June 17, 2025
✅ Expansion of the world-building
✅ New setting
✅ Characters (and new secondary characters)
✅ Pace
✅ Action and magical creatures
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 What’s happening with Moses?
🆗 Alice is separated from her gang (except Malcolm) for most of the book
❗️❗️Trigger warning: some gore, mentions of deaths and torture by magical creatures (but nothing too explicit), death of children and unborn child (off-page)
3.5 stars
Alice promised Valas a favor in exchange for her help to save Sean’s life, and Valas called in her favor: Alice must travel through a magical mirror to another realm, where she needs to hunt down a Court’s mage that stole a priceless artifact and fled. Alice needs to do this for Valas, but more than that, if the runaway mage (I am sorry, I can’t even remember her name) manages to accomplish what she set out to do, death and destruction like was never known before will befall Alice’s world.
The plotline with the runaway Court mage was interesting but felt weak at the same time because it’s the first we heard about it. Valas secured Alice’s boon weeks (if not months) ago, but she waited until then to send her through the mirror, and I don’t get it. If the stolen artifact is that priceless and dangerous, why wait? Why not send Alice through the mirror right away? The ex-court's mage was on a mission to avenge her family who was killed in an anti-supe bombing, and she plans to raise a very dark entity and have them kill all members of the anti-supe groups existing. The issue is that all the background information on the mage and her history was dumped on us at the beginning of this book, to justify Alice’s mission and to explain why Hell would be unleashed on Earth if Alice failed, but it came out of nowhere. We never heard about that mage, the entity she planned to raise, or the artifact she stole before this book. It felt as if the author knew from the start that she wanted Alice to travel through the mirror eventually, but she had no idea why until she sat down to write this book.
The plot happens in a different world, resembling Alice’s, but with a more apocalyptic vibe, and much more dangerous creatures coexisting with the humans, and hunting them too. While I loved the change of scenery, and the new characters were likable and well-developed enough for me to care about them, I also missed the old gang, and I was eager for Alice to complete her mission so she could go back to her world and go on with her life. I feel that this book was a break in the arc-plot of the series, and I enjoyed it, but I also found it harder to care about the side characters, because I had no idea if they would be relevant to the rest of the series, or if we would only see them in this book and then never hear about them again.
I enjoyed the plot of this book, but I also want the issue with Moses to progress and be resolved once and for all. I feel that this part of the plot has been dragging on forever. First, it was about Alice remaining hidden, but Moses has known about her for a while now, and I am still waiting for his big move. He is supposed to be cold, cruel, vicious, and ruthless, his inaction doesn’t fit with that at all.
All this time, I kept hoping that Charles would surprise us all and side with Alice, or show his loyalty to her in a shocking manner, even if it puts him at odds with the Vampire Court. Or, I was just hoping that he would show some redeeming qualities to compensate for his dubious morals, but sadly, he showed us in this book that he is truly a self-centered and power-hungry vampire, doing the Court’s bidding. While I truly believe that he came to care for Alice and that she does bring a better side of him to light, that time was one too many, and I have to make my peace with the fact that I need to stop liking him.
1. Heart of Malice ⭐⭐⭐
1.5 Just for one Night ⭐⭐.5
1.75 Blood Money ⭐⭐⭐
1.8 Ghosting 101 ⭐⭐
2. Heart of Fire ⭐⭐⭐.5
3. Heart of Ice ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Heart of Stone ⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. Heart of Shadows ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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✅ New setting
✅ Characters (and new secondary characters)
✅ Pace
✅ Action and magical creatures
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 What’s happening with Moses?
🆗 Alice is separated from her gang (except Malcolm) for most of the book
❗️❗️Trigger warning: some gore, mentions of deaths and torture by magical creatures (but nothing too explicit), death of children and unborn child (off-page)
3.5 stars
Alice promised Valas a favor in exchange for her help to save Sean’s life, and Valas called in her favor: Alice must travel through a magical mirror to another realm, where she needs to hunt down a Court’s mage that stole a priceless artifact and fled. Alice needs to do this for Valas, but more than that, if the runaway mage (I am sorry, I can’t even remember her name) manages to accomplish what she set out to do, death and destruction like was never known before will befall Alice’s world.
The plotline with the runaway Court mage was interesting but felt weak at the same time because it’s the first we heard about it. Valas secured Alice’s boon weeks (if not months) ago, but she waited until then to send her through the mirror, and I don’t get it. If the stolen artifact is that priceless and dangerous, why wait? Why not send Alice through the mirror right away? The ex-court's mage was on a mission to avenge her family who was killed in an anti-supe bombing, and she plans to raise a very dark entity and have them kill all members of the anti-supe groups existing. The issue is that all the background information on the mage and her history was dumped on us at the beginning of this book, to justify Alice’s mission and to explain why Hell would be unleashed on Earth if Alice failed, but it came out of nowhere. We never heard about that mage, the entity she planned to raise, or the artifact she stole before this book. It felt as if the author knew from the start that she wanted Alice to travel through the mirror eventually, but she had no idea why until she sat down to write this book.
The plot happens in a different world, resembling Alice’s, but with a more apocalyptic vibe, and much more dangerous creatures coexisting with the humans, and hunting them too. While I loved the change of scenery, and the new characters were likable and well-developed enough for me to care about them, I also missed the old gang, and I was eager for Alice to complete her mission so she could go back to her world and go on with her life. I feel that this book was a break in the arc-plot of the series, and I enjoyed it, but I also found it harder to care about the side characters, because I had no idea if they would be relevant to the rest of the series, or if we would only see them in this book and then never hear about them again.
I enjoyed the plot of this book, but I also want the issue with Moses to progress and be resolved once and for all. I feel that this part of the plot has been dragging on forever. First, it was about Alice remaining hidden, but Moses has known about her for a while now, and I am still waiting for his big move. He is supposed to be cold, cruel, vicious, and ruthless, his inaction doesn’t fit with that at all.
All this time, I kept hoping that Charles would surprise us all and side with Alice, or show his loyalty to her in a shocking manner, even if it puts him at odds with the Vampire Court. Or, I was just hoping that he would show some redeeming qualities to compensate for his dubious morals, but sadly, he showed us in this book that he is truly a self-centered and power-hungry vampire, doing the Court’s bidding. While I truly believe that he came to care for Alice and that she does bring a better side of him to light, that time was one too many, and I have to make my peace with the fact that I need to stop liking him.
1. Heart of Malice ⭐⭐⭐
1.5 Just for one Night ⭐⭐.5
1.75 Blood Money ⭐⭐⭐
1.8 Ghosting 101 ⭐⭐
2. Heart of Fire ⭐⭐⭐.5
3. Heart of Ice ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Heart of Stone ⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. Heart of Shadows ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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May 1, 2021
I feel betrayed…
Spoilers...Please do not continue reading this review if you haven't finished the books before.
CHARLES VAUGHN…HOW COULD YOU DO THIS??
It’s the old debate…
Up until recently, I’d always been Team Vampire, but lately, I can’t help thinking that the Vampire life is quite restrictive. You must stay away from the sun. You can only visit places that you have been formally invited. You must follow the rules and guidelines of the ‘house’ and if you don’t, you will be penalised. Sound familiar??? Geez, now Covid’s affected my love of paranormal romances.
Now, bring me a growly, possessive, and bossy werewolf who goes out of his way to see me happy AND doesn’t manipulate me … SOLD!!!
I absolutely loved Heart of Vengeance, and I’d even go out on a limb to say it’s one of my favourites in the series. It was out of this world! The new characters we are introduced to are interesting and I got the impression from the ending, we are going to see more of them in the future. SIGN ME UP!!
The storyline was original, fast-paced and exciting. The scenes, even when they were unbelievable, I was able to picture. My emotions were involved, and for about 2.5 seconds, like Alice, I thought there was no hope. There seems to be this sexual hum that’s present whenever Alice and Sean are in the same room. It was just a really enjoyable reading experience.
If you haven’t tried Lisa Edmonds’, Alice Worth series, I highly recommend giving it a try. But, you must start at the very beginning, a very good place to start…
Spoilers...Please do not continue reading this review if you haven't finished the books before.
CHARLES VAUGHN…HOW COULD YOU DO THIS??
It’s the old debate…
Team VAMPIRE
- OR -
Team WEREWOLF?
Up until recently, I’d always been Team Vampire, but lately, I can’t help thinking that the Vampire life is quite restrictive. You must stay away from the sun. You can only visit places that you have been formally invited. You must follow the rules and guidelines of the ‘house’ and if you don’t, you will be penalised. Sound familiar??? Geez, now Covid’s affected my love of paranormal romances.
Now, bring me a growly, possessive, and bossy werewolf who goes out of his way to see me happy AND doesn’t manipulate me … SOLD!!!
I absolutely loved Heart of Vengeance, and I’d even go out on a limb to say it’s one of my favourites in the series. It was out of this world! The new characters we are introduced to are interesting and I got the impression from the ending, we are going to see more of them in the future. SIGN ME UP!!
The storyline was original, fast-paced and exciting. The scenes, even when they were unbelievable, I was able to picture. My emotions were involved, and for about 2.5 seconds, like Alice, I thought there was no hope. There seems to be this sexual hum that’s present whenever Alice and Sean are in the same room. It was just a really enjoyable reading experience.
If you haven’t tried Lisa Edmonds’, Alice Worth series, I highly recommend giving it a try. But, you must start at the very beginning, a very good place to start…
December 14, 2021
I surprisingly really liked the new characters introduced in this installment of the series. The change of 'scenery' was also a nice change of pace. Though I am still a little annoyed that the whole issue with Moses still hasn't taken center stage. It's feeling a little dragged out at this point after all the build up of how big and bad he was in the earlier books. But this was still one of the better books of this series if you ignore that big elephant in the room.
January 9, 2021
Note - I received an ARC from the author.
I was very lucky to have stumbled upon this awesome series! The latest edition in Alice Worth books is just as fast-paced, action-packed and brilliant as the previous books. This series pretty much defines the emerging urban fantasy genre. I am surprised this series does not have more reads and reviews.
Alice is one of my favourite heroines. She is bold, independent, real and badass! I love the series because of her relationship with Sean. This book introduces even more intriguing characters that I would love to read more about. It set a perfect stage for a spin-off that I am looking forward to reading.
I would recommend this series to all the urban fantasy readers out there! I eagerly await the next book in the series!
I was very lucky to have stumbled upon this awesome series! The latest edition in Alice Worth books is just as fast-paced, action-packed and brilliant as the previous books. This series pretty much defines the emerging urban fantasy genre. I am surprised this series does not have more reads and reviews.
Alice is one of my favourite heroines. She is bold, independent, real and badass! I love the series because of her relationship with Sean. This book introduces even more intriguing characters that I would love to read more about. It set a perfect stage for a spin-off that I am looking forward to reading.
I would recommend this series to all the urban fantasy readers out there! I eagerly await the next book in the series!
October 15, 2020
Well dang--we went on a journey with Alice in this one!
We get a new world, new friends, and even higher stakes!
In this book we catch up with Alice, and things in her life are still not going as smoothly as she'd hoped. While she is still trying to settle into her relationship with Sean and the pack- she is also just starting her PI business again, and coping with issues from the previous books.
Plus, Alice is still dealing with unresolved issues with Charles, the constant threat of Moses hovering over her, family problems, the were Council breathing down her neck--and oh yeah, that little problem with Valas finally calling in her favor at the worst possible time.
However, this is a debt that must be payed, and her deal leads her to a realm beyond with seriously dire consequences awaiting her if she doesn't return.
Time to go through the looking glass Alice!
x------------------------------------------x
So loved Lucy, Esme, and Daisy! I'm also looking forward to what shenanigans the little cat will get up to in future books. I was also glad Malcom was along for the ride in this adventure to have that friendship and support system.
I also did like Ronan, but I wasn't feeling the semi-flirtatious nature going on bt him and Alice. Yeah it makes the story fun and it was relatively harmless--but I kind of don't like how this isn't the first time Alice has been flirting around on Sean (*cough* Lake/Charles)
Girl....I guess bc I love Sean as the most patient and understanding book boyfriend out there, and turnabout is fair play-- I would feel some type of way and a little hmmm if he was sneaking a peak as someone undressed, or admiring their body, or feeling a little tingly about them, or flirting with another character.
So yeah- Imma keep the same energy for Alice- since this ain't the first time.
We get a new world, new friends, and even higher stakes!
In this book we catch up with Alice, and things in her life are still not going as smoothly as she'd hoped. While she is still trying to settle into her relationship with Sean and the pack- she is also just starting her PI business again, and coping with issues from the previous books.
Plus, Alice is still dealing with unresolved issues with Charles, the constant threat of Moses hovering over her, family problems, the were Council breathing down her neck--and oh yeah, that little problem with Valas finally calling in her favor at the worst possible time.
However, this is a debt that must be payed, and her deal leads her to a realm beyond with seriously dire consequences awaiting her if she doesn't return.
Time to go through the looking glass Alice!
x------------------------------------------x
So loved Lucy, Esme, and Daisy! I'm also looking forward to what shenanigans the little cat will get up to in future books. I was also glad Malcom was along for the ride in this adventure to have that friendship and support system.
I also did like Ronan, but I wasn't feeling the semi-flirtatious nature going on bt him and Alice. Yeah it makes the story fun and it was relatively harmless--but I kind of don't like how this isn't the first time Alice has been flirting around on Sean (*cough* Lake/Charles)
"I was fairly certain he was aware I was watching. Something about his posture made me think he was smiling to himself and taking his time re-dressing, the gorgeous bastard."
Girl....I guess bc I love Sean as the most patient and understanding book boyfriend out there, and turnabout is fair play-- I would feel some type of way and a little hmmm if he was sneaking a peak as someone undressed, or admiring their body, or feeling a little tingly about them, or flirting with another character.
So yeah- Imma keep the same energy for Alice- since this ain't the first time.
September 21, 2020
One of the many things I love about this series is that it keeps continuing to surprise me (in a good way!). The world building in this series is so richly developed and I love delving into new aspects of it (and this book literally delves into a new world!) not to mention illuminating further on the history of vampires and magic (notably of course Valas’ history), not to mention new revelations regarding Charles. I really appreciate how Ms. Edmonds is willing to take risks with the storyline (with introducing a new world which can be risky when literally going into new territory with your main character and readers this far along into the series). But instead of unraveling into a subplot tangent, the author handled this quite well with deftly weaving it back into the main world and furthering the main plot line (not to mention tying up some loose ends from the battle in the previous book). I also liked that this new world provided new challenges to Alice and we see her become a stronger person for it (I love seeing her character growth). With this new world and introduction of new characters, the author also opened the door to spinoff series which I am definitely on board for. :) And did I mention there are dragons in this book?! Just another reason to love this book. ;)
Anyway, I was very happy with this book and can’t wait to read the next one (not to mention future spinoffs). Great job, Ms. Edmonds. ❤️
Anyway, I was very happy with this book and can’t wait to read the next one (not to mention future spinoffs). Great job, Ms. Edmonds. ❤️
March 21, 2021
I’m so happy that I discovered this author a few years ago. She writes consistently good urban fantasy.
The thing I liked most about this book was that the author has added enough depth and breadth to the story that I want to keep reading the series. In my review of the previous book I mentioned that I really would like to see the Moses Murphy story arc resolved, and that is still true. However, I think that she could accomplish that and still leave room for more story arcs in this world.
I really liked the new characters introduced; Esme, Ronan, Lucy and (not new) Daisy!
The thing I liked most about this book was that the author has added enough depth and breadth to the story that I want to keep reading the series. In my review of the previous book I mentioned that I really would like to see the Moses Murphy story arc resolved, and that is still true. However, I think that she could accomplish that and still leave room for more story arcs in this world.
I really liked the new characters introduced; Esme, Ronan, Lucy and (not new) Daisy!
December 21, 2020
It's time for Alice to fulfill the contract with the queen of the Vampire Court. She and Malcolm must travel through the Broken World, then on to the Underworld, to prevent a thief from unleashing the Furies on the mortal world. Alice must accomplish these tasks all while battling dark magic within her.
A total change of scenery for Alice and Malcolm. The Broken World was cool. They even have dragons! Even though Alice was separated from Sean for nearly the entire book, and I love me some Sean, I really liked this installment of the series for the fantasy aspect of the plot. It was fine with me to take a break from the romance for a book, especially when I get new characters as a reward and I loved the new characters Alice meets in the Broken World (do I detect a spin-off series in the works??). Alice brings a couple back with her, and I'm eager to see how they fit into her life at home. Unfortunately, there looks to be a bit of a wait until the next book comes out. I hate waiting. :(
A total change of scenery for Alice and Malcolm. The Broken World was cool. They even have dragons! Even though Alice was separated from Sean for nearly the entire book, and I love me some Sean, I really liked this installment of the series for the fantasy aspect of the plot. It was fine with me to take a break from the romance for a book, especially when I get new characters as a reward and I loved the new characters Alice meets in the Broken World (do I detect a spin-off series in the works??). Alice brings a couple back with her, and I'm eager to see how they fit into her life at home. Unfortunately, there looks to be a bit of a wait until the next book comes out. I hate waiting. :(
November 30, 2021
Once again, 5 stars for Lisa and Alice.
However, for the first time since I started this series, I was actually suprised I ended up loving a book as much as I did. And that is because the blurb didn't appeal to me at all.
I didn't like the idea of Alice going to some strange world, of suddenly introducing the race of fae, of leaving behind all the characters I've come to know and love over the course of five installments. I shouldn't have worried, though, as Lisa Edmonds has never disappointed me in any way before.
This was fantastic. So imaginative, entertaining, fun and witty, suspenseful and emotional. I loved the new characters: Lucy as an amazing female sidekick and Rogan as a sexy, badass antihero who has all the potential to be a swoonworthy love interest but just isn't one. I loved that the story didn't go there and Edmonds didn't feel the need to include a love triangle (I mean let's face it, there just is no competition for Sean).
It breaks my heart that this series doesn't get nearly as much attention as it should.
The writing is flawless, the worldbuilding is terrific, and there isn't a word in existence that could describe the love I have for those characters.
I don't want this series to ever end.
September 23, 2023
There are two things I dislike more than almost anything in UF/Fantasy books, one is incorporated into the previous book in this series (amnesia) and the second encompasses this book - the characters spending the book wandering through other weird fantasy worlds filled with crazy creatures, etc. etc. etc. GAH! You’re killing me here, Ms Edmonds! If it weren’t for the amazing writing and super creative and engaging storyline overall, I would have tapped out the minute Alice went through that magic mirror.
Unlike the last book, however, I couldn’t bring myself to round up because, along with the (yawn) wandering through crazy creature-land, I found the entire middle of the book boring. Yes, it hurts to even write that word in a review of this engaging and otherwise amazing series. But there it is. I was bored.
It does (FINALLY) pick up near the end of the book, and we are ultimately back on track - and in the “real” world, though, so I’mma plowing on. Only two more books to go!
Unlike the last book, however, I couldn’t bring myself to round up because, along with the (yawn) wandering through crazy creature-land, I found the entire middle of the book boring. Yes, it hurts to even write that word in a review of this engaging and otherwise amazing series. But there it is. I was bored.
It does (FINALLY) pick up near the end of the book, and we are ultimately back on track - and in the “real” world, though, so I’mma plowing on. Only two more books to go!
October 19, 2020
*****4.5*****
This series is so good, and this was an outstanding addition. I was a little bummed that most of this book was spent off-world, so we didn't get to interact much at all with our regular characters. But honestly, I so enjoyed the characters in this book - Lucy, Ronan, Daisy, Esme - that I didn't stay bummed for long.
I hope Lucy and Ronan aren't just one-off characters, because I loved them. The epilogue also made me wonder... Spin off series, maybe?
Anyway, I'm glad this book wrapped up a couple long-running worries, and am super eager for the next!
This series is so good, and this was an outstanding addition. I was a little bummed that most of this book was spent off-world, so we didn't get to interact much at all with our regular characters. But honestly, I so enjoyed the characters in this book - Lucy, Ronan, Daisy, Esme - that I didn't stay bummed for long.
I hope Lucy and Ronan aren't just one-off characters, because I loved them. The epilogue also made me wonder... Spin off series, maybe?
Anyway, I'm glad this book wrapped up a couple long-running worries, and am super eager for the next!
September 26, 2020
Thank you to the author for the ARC! This book was EVERYTHING. Take all the things you love about the series so far, and then add mirror worlds and gods and alternate versions of series characters and DRAGONS. This is a series that just keeps growing and getting deeper and better, and I absolutely loved every minute!
December 14, 2020
Lisa Edmonds does it again with another outstanding entry in the Alice Worth series!
Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 14, 2020
I remember when I first discovered this series earlier in the year and how impressed I was at finding an Urban Fantasy series of this quality that I hadn't already read, and this latest book most certainly continues on in the same awesome ways of its predecessors.
Unfortunately for poor Alice, its time to pay the piper, or thale vampire at least. Valas is calling in her debt when Alice bargained forbhwr help to save Sean's life, so Alice is forced to use the mirror to venture into the Broken World, to retrieve a stolen scroll that could mean life or death to Valas.
In the usual fare, this was full of action, excellent world building, great character development and fabulous side characters, including Lucy from the Broken World, where I am desperately hoping for some sort of spin off!
Sean and Alice continue to be an amazing suppose to one another, and I love how their relationship has grown. He sits a chunk of this out, as he can't accompany Alice, but I was surprised to find this didn't bother me.
I hight recommend this series to lovers of decent, old school Urban Fantasy.
Unfortunately for poor Alice, its time to pay the piper, or thale vampire at least. Valas is calling in her debt when Alice bargained forbhwr help to save Sean's life, so Alice is forced to use the mirror to venture into the Broken World, to retrieve a stolen scroll that could mean life or death to Valas.
In the usual fare, this was full of action, excellent world building, great character development and fabulous side characters, including Lucy from the Broken World, where I am desperately hoping for some sort of spin off!
Sean and Alice continue to be an amazing suppose to one another, and I love how their relationship has grown. He sits a chunk of this out, as he can't accompany Alice, but I was surprised to find this didn't bother me.
I hight recommend this series to lovers of decent, old school Urban Fantasy.
October 24, 2020
Not one of my favorites
This might be my least favorite in this series. I wasn't a fan of Alice going to another world and leaving behind the main storyline.
This might be my least favorite in this series. I wasn't a fan of Alice going to another world and leaving behind the main storyline.
September 18, 2020
4.5 stars
* An advanced reading copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
This series is sort of special for me. Mostly because I didn't love it from the start. I had to convince myself to finish the first book. The story was interesting but the main character was too cold and detached and undecided about what she wanted.
There were also signs of a possible love triangle and usually that prompts an automatic 'No.' from me.
But I kept going because the world was fascinating and I was curious to see what path the author would decide for Alice.
And I'm glad I did.
I absolutely love how the author presents new scenarios and challenges with each new book.
In this sixth book Alice has to explore (a favorite concept of mine) an alternate version of Earth. That world sounded so interesting and I think it might turn into a spin-off.
The character development in the last few books is amazing. It's nice and rare to see a main character aware of her flaws and shortcomings and actually try to overcome them .
What kind of bothered me was Alice's insistence to do the right thing and bring someone to justice, to face trial and all that, when the best and easiest solution was to kill that person. It was literally their only option at some point and she was still looking for a way to just capture them.
I feel like Alice should have been more aware that sometimes to get rid of evil you have to step up and do it yourself, not expect someone else to do it and call it justice. It's not justice when the hesitation costs other people their lives.
The situation with Charles took an interesting turn and Alice finally put him in his place, but something tells me he won't give up so easily.
In conclusion, this continues to be a favorite series of mine. Soo happy about that. The story and character development in this book were amazing and I can't wait to see what happens next.
7/10 would recommend
* An advanced reading copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
This series is sort of special for me. Mostly because I didn't love it from the start. I had to convince myself to finish the first book. The story was interesting but the main character was too cold and detached and undecided about what she wanted.
There were also signs of a possible love triangle and usually that prompts an automatic 'No.' from me.
But I kept going because the world was fascinating and I was curious to see what path the author would decide for Alice.
And I'm glad I did.
I absolutely love how the author presents new scenarios and challenges with each new book.
In this sixth book Alice has to explore (a favorite concept of mine) an alternate version of Earth. That world sounded so interesting and I think it might turn into a spin-off.
The character development in the last few books is amazing. It's nice and rare to see a main character aware of her flaws and shortcomings and actually try to overcome them .
What kind of bothered me was Alice's insistence to do the right thing and bring someone to justice, to face trial and all that, when the best and easiest solution was to kill that person. It was literally their only option at some point and she was still looking for a way to just capture them.
I feel like Alice should have been more aware that sometimes to get rid of evil you have to step up and do it yourself, not expect someone else to do it and call it justice. It's not justice when the hesitation costs other people their lives.
The situation with Charles took an interesting turn and Alice finally put him in his place, but something tells me he won't give up so easily.
In conclusion, this continues to be a favorite series of mine. Soo happy about that. The story and character development in this book were amazing and I can't wait to see what happens next.
7/10 would recommend
January 2, 2021
So I had a hard time staying engaged with this one. I loved that the beginning started out with a bang! She goes to meet her dad and they have to escape. I’m like, YES! This is great! But then he bails for no real reason and then it’s back to what happens at the start of every book. Alice has a convo with the vamps then relays the same info again to Malcolm. And again to Sean when she gets home....ok the repeated intel make my eyes glaze over so I skimmed those bits. I also skimmed past the previous book rehash that fills the first dozen chapters. I also skimmed past Alice’s token visit to the witch’s coffee shop. This past bit has become repetitive since the character was introduced. She stands in as Alice’s free therapist/Glenda the Good Witch by telling her she had the power within her all along, etc. Plus gives vague hints on what’s to come later in the book. Ok cool, moving on. She then gets a random drive by threat from the Were Council that seem to overdo the “future villains” trope. It’s very black and white. She’s the good guy, they’re the bad guy. Same as the spoiled were girl that put a Hex on Alice, no redeeming qualities, just basic bad guy trope. No grey area or more in depth character development here.
Ok so this is like the first 15 chapters that basically focus on the Were’s but then the plot completely pivots to Alice going into the Fae Realm. Then entire rest of the book is Alice basically taking a passive backseat ride along with two new characters info dump all the new world building to us and Alice. So this feels more like telling instead of showing. They get into some token fights but it basically is Alice uses black magic to wipe out their enemies, they dust themselves off, get back in the car, and repeat. I found most of this pretty boring and not a real threat to Alice & Co.
The ending felt really rushed and under developed. She gets back and we basically get one or maybe two chapters before it ends. The epilogue wasn’t even about Alice.
So this book felt like 2 different books. The first 15ish chapters are setting up the plot for Alice and her pack’s fight against the council plus her dad being back in the picture but it’s left hanging to switch over to the entirely different plot of “Alice goes on a road trip”. I wish it had just been the road trip with a more fulfilling return home to finish out that plot line with just hints of the Were plot scattered in. Or just the Were plot. Pick one and stick to it instead of putting so much emphasis on it to then just drop it cold.
I dunno...overall I found this book underwhelming and tedious. But hopefully the next book goes back to the Were plot/Dad/Moses storyline so that can finally get addressed. I’m tired of the Vamps taking up so much room.
Ok so this is like the first 15 chapters that basically focus on the Were’s but then the plot completely pivots to Alice going into the Fae Realm. Then entire rest of the book is Alice basically taking a passive backseat ride along with two new characters info dump all the new world building to us and Alice. So this feels more like telling instead of showing. They get into some token fights but it basically is Alice uses black magic to wipe out their enemies, they dust themselves off, get back in the car, and repeat. I found most of this pretty boring and not a real threat to Alice & Co.
The ending felt really rushed and under developed. She gets back and we basically get one or maybe two chapters before it ends. The epilogue wasn’t even about Alice.
So this book felt like 2 different books. The first 15ish chapters are setting up the plot for Alice and her pack’s fight against the council plus her dad being back in the picture but it’s left hanging to switch over to the entirely different plot of “Alice goes on a road trip”. I wish it had just been the road trip with a more fulfilling return home to finish out that plot line with just hints of the Were plot scattered in. Or just the Were plot. Pick one and stick to it instead of putting so much emphasis on it to then just drop it cold.
I dunno...overall I found this book underwhelming and tedious. But hopefully the next book goes back to the Were plot/Dad/Moses storyline so that can finally get addressed. I’m tired of the Vamps taking up so much room.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2021
I was really disappointed in this book. Actually, since the last two, my enthusiasm for this series has continued to decline with the continued flip-flopping that the author has put her characters through. Her plans for her characters at the start of the series were great and the tension between them was fun. But at some point, the author has used crumbs and throwaway sentences as a way to completely rework characters and motivation/plot etc. Example:
^^that sort of writing spoils the author/reader relationship so much that as a reader, I no longer trust what the author writes because of these “twists” that aren’t planned and aren’t twists, but more like squeezing tension out of plotlines where there are none.
I’m bothered by it because the author has demonstrated that she’s a competent writer and I’m bothered by it because it’s more of a cheap move than anything else. These aren’t the only two instances she does it, either.
And, I know I’m going on a rant here but I’m also getting tired of the 33% more BillyMays style additions to who Alice is. Or how she’s like “I’ll rip your skin from your bones” and then be like “despite him being a bad guy, he didn’t deserve to die”
Like, girl, which is it??
I wonder if these problems are being created by the publisher demanding more or if it’s the author’s inability to carry on a series.
Either way, I’m considering DNFing this book and not continuing on.
^^that sort of writing spoils the author/reader relationship so much that as a reader, I no longer trust what the author writes because of these “twists” that aren’t planned and aren’t twists, but more like squeezing tension out of plotlines where there are none.
I’m bothered by it because the author has demonstrated that she’s a competent writer and I’m bothered by it because it’s more of a cheap move than anything else. These aren’t the only two instances she does it, either.
And, I know I’m going on a rant here but I’m also getting tired of the 33% more BillyMays style additions to who Alice is. Or how she’s like “I’ll rip your skin from your bones” and then be like “despite him being a bad guy, he didn’t deserve to die”
Like, girl, which is it??
I wonder if these problems are being created by the publisher demanding more or if it’s the author’s inability to carry on a series.
Either way, I’m considering DNFing this book and not continuing on.
October 22, 2020
An ok addition to the series since it moves the plot forward on how Alice gets rid of the black magic but not the best. The book seemed like Alice was just stumbling through an adventure while she had no idea what was going on. A few characters make cryptic remarks that Alice follows but she never really investigates or plans anything by herself. This took away from her powerful/strategic personality. The one exception was when she made Valas make promises in exchange for her life. Because the story was so passive it was also more boring than other books in the series. I hope the next one is better.
October 14, 2020
One of my favorite urban fantasy series out today. Love Alice, Sean, and Malcolm. This installment is full of a$$ kicking action. A few new characters that you’ll fall in love with too! Perfect for fans of Kim Harrison and Darynda Jones.
August 15, 2021
Heart of Vengeance was another fantastic addition to this series. It was full of action and adventure, plus plenty of heart, and with just enough moments with Sean to have me grinning. A couple huge reveals, introductions, and wrapping up of a couple things means this story was satisfying! Highly recommend and can't wait for the next book!
Also, audio was fantastic and definitely recommend you listen to it if audiobooks are your thing!
Also, audio was fantastic and definitely recommend you listen to it if audiobooks are your thing!
October 8, 2022
I had been dragging my feet on this book as the blurb just did not pull me in and I didn't think I was interested in anything other than a continuation of the usual cast of characters or setting. I was so wrong!! Now I wish we had more set in that alternate setting; loved the new side characters - hope we see them again!! 4.5+
February 22, 2021
I really enjoyed the "Broken world", I hope that the author is planning on a series set there.
September 17, 2020
If you are just picking up this series, you definitely want to start at the first book “Heart of Malice”. Heart of Vengeance plot centers around Alice honoring a debt she occurred in another book to Valas, head of the vampire court and fulfilling part of a prophecy (also in another book).
First of all, I love this series! It is extremely well written and one of those finds that you tell everyone about (who enjoys the same genre as you).
I like that everything takes place in the same “world” we live in except for having vampires, witches, mages, and shifters so it is easy to follow. I do not like books that thrust you into an alternate world where I need a map, a pronunciation guide, and a cast of characters to keep track of. I only say that because a large portion of this book thrusts you into an alternative world. It was the superman equivalent of “bizarro” world, where everything is the same yet different. That made it easier to follow. I did not do well when they entered yet another realm. Luckily the author kept most stuff easy to follow (but I was happy when we left that realm).
I know readers have written that they want a spin off series based on those “other world” characters, but I do not (unless they cross into Alice’s world…not vice versa). The characters were great...the other world...meh! That is more my reading hangup than a reflection of the author or storyline.
This is an Alice and Malcom story throughout and felt very “quest like”. In fact one of the characters made a funny reference to Lord of the Rings that made me laugh.
Without giving away any spoilers (and to paraphrase a part in the book): Alice is more or less a mouthy human mage currently being eaten alive from the inside by dark magic who was told by (a 10 year old) clairvoyant witch that she wouldn’t succeed in her mission. I mean who wouldn’t want to read that book?!?
I highly recommend it and the series as a whole.
I received an ARC for an honest review of the book.
First of all, I love this series! It is extremely well written and one of those finds that you tell everyone about (who enjoys the same genre as you).
I like that everything takes place in the same “world” we live in except for having vampires, witches, mages, and shifters so it is easy to follow. I do not like books that thrust you into an alternate world where I need a map, a pronunciation guide, and a cast of characters to keep track of. I only say that because a large portion of this book thrusts you into an alternative world. It was the superman equivalent of “bizarro” world, where everything is the same yet different. That made it easier to follow. I did not do well when they entered yet another realm. Luckily the author kept most stuff easy to follow (but I was happy when we left that realm).
I know readers have written that they want a spin off series based on those “other world” characters, but I do not (unless they cross into Alice’s world…not vice versa). The characters were great...the other world...meh! That is more my reading hangup than a reflection of the author or storyline.
This is an Alice and Malcom story throughout and felt very “quest like”. In fact one of the characters made a funny reference to Lord of the Rings that made me laugh.
Without giving away any spoilers (and to paraphrase a part in the book): Alice is more or less a mouthy human mage currently being eaten alive from the inside by dark magic who was told by (a 10 year old) clairvoyant witch that she wouldn’t succeed in her mission. I mean who wouldn’t want to read that book?!?
I highly recommend it and the series as a whole.
I received an ARC for an honest review of the book.
October 19, 2020
Alice is badass and I am loving every book in this series. This one had a new setting - a very strange and broken world that Alice travelled to to pay a debt to the vampires.
I am soooooo loving her clarity with the vampires and werewolves, she's in a much better place :) She gets kicked but comes out swinging every single time.
I really look forward to every new book and can't wait for the next
I am soooooo loving her clarity with the vampires and werewolves, she's in a much better place :) She gets kicked but comes out swinging every single time.
I really look forward to every new book and can't wait for the next
November 19, 2022
I enjoyed the new characters and worlds but the “brand name” monsters and deities felt very off-tone from the rest of the series, as did the whole other world thing. Instead of urban fantasy this was fantasy fantasy. Not a page turner in the way the other books have been, but we also just might be getting to the point where there’s nothing left to say about the main characters. We shall see in book 7!
September 14, 2020
Well this was another great addition to the series. Alice is kick butt as usual. There was never a dull moment in this book. I cannot wait for book seven. This one just set you up for it and I know it's going to be great.I'm sad that this one is over, Lisa Edmonds is such a great story teller. Till the next time.....I received an ARC for my honest review.
October 4, 2020
ARC provided by the author. Thank you Ms. Edmonds for the chance to review.
Just wow! Me Edmonds continues to amaze me with this series. Every book ups the stakes in Alice's life. I enjoyed the new characters introduced here and hope to see some of them again (some can stay far away. Lol). This kept me on the edge of my seat wondering how in the world Alice would triumph here. Very satisfying read. Do yourself a favor and read this series
Just wow! Me Edmonds continues to amaze me with this series. Every book ups the stakes in Alice's life. I enjoyed the new characters introduced here and hope to see some of them again (some can stay far away. Lol). This kept me on the edge of my seat wondering how in the world Alice would triumph here. Very satisfying read. Do yourself a favor and read this series
November 16, 2020
Loved!
Sean was not in this book much but Alice made this book. Such a great book with meeting new people and places. I hope it is a new series of is a series. Will look into that. 💖💖
Sean was not in this book much but Alice made this book. Such a great book with meeting new people and places. I hope it is a new series of is a series. Will look into that. 💖💖
November 11, 2022
3.5
This was mostly good. I took a star off because I felt that it took too long in the other world they went to. I did think a series in that world might be interesting but we didn’t need to spend so much time there to build it up. Liked Daisy and the dragon cat! Ronan almost made me like him more than Sean. Looking forward to the next one.
This was mostly good. I took a star off because I felt that it took too long in the other world they went to. I did think a series in that world might be interesting but we didn’t need to spend so much time there to build it up. Liked Daisy and the dragon cat! Ronan almost made me like him more than Sean. Looking forward to the next one.
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