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Witchbane #5
Unholy
A cycle of ritual murders. A coven of dark warlocks, drawing their immortality from the magic of their dead master. Two men sworn to stop the deaths, destroy the warlocks, and avenge the victims. Except this time, the killer flips the script.
Seth Tanner swore vengeance on the dark witches who killed his brother, Jesse. He rescued Evan Malone from one of the witches, and they’ve fallen in love despite the danger and chaos, going on the road to complete the quest and bring an end to the ritual murders. Their relationship is still new, tested at every turn by danger and magic.
Seth and Evan head to Charleston to stop the next warlock and save his intended victim. But this time, they’re too late. The warlock has already powered up, and he’s determined to destroy the two hunters one way or another. A deadly curse on Seth and Evan means time is running out. Can they find a way to turn the tables, or is Charleston their final destination?
Unholy is an urban fantasy MM paranormal romance with plenty of supernatural suspense, hurt/comfort, hot sex, found family, dark magic, and paranormal thrills. It is part of a series but can be read as a standalone and features an evolving, established romantic relationship with all the feels. Intended for readers 18 years of age and older.
Seth Tanner swore vengeance on the dark witches who killed his brother, Jesse. He rescued Evan Malone from one of the witches, and they’ve fallen in love despite the danger and chaos, going on the road to complete the quest and bring an end to the ritual murders. Their relationship is still new, tested at every turn by danger and magic.
Seth and Evan head to Charleston to stop the next warlock and save his intended victim. But this time, they’re too late. The warlock has already powered up, and he’s determined to destroy the two hunters one way or another. A deadly curse on Seth and Evan means time is running out. Can they find a way to turn the tables, or is Charleston their final destination?
Unholy is an urban fantasy MM paranormal romance with plenty of supernatural suspense, hurt/comfort, hot sex, found family, dark magic, and paranormal thrills. It is part of a series but can be read as a standalone and features an evolving, established romantic relationship with all the feels. Intended for readers 18 years of age and older.
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First published February 5, 2020
49 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Brice
49 books618 followersMorgan Brice writes Urban Fantasy M/M Paranormal Romance with lots of magic, spooky stuff, and sexy men.
Pen name of author Gail Z. Martin.
Pen name of author Gail Z. Martin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
March 8, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 with a full review to follow...soonish!
Things are getting seriously good here...
‘Unholy’ is the most recent addition to Morgan Brice’s ‘Witchbane’ series and for me as well as becoming my favorite in the series, so far, it’s also accomplished two things…first it’s simply taken things to a whole different level and secondly, more so than any of the previous books, it’s connected the ‘Witchbane’ series to both her ‘Badlands’ and ‘Treasure Trails’ series as well as her ‘Deadly Curiosities’ and ‘Night Vigil’ series which she writes as Gail Z. Martin.
While this may all sound a bit confusing and maybe even overwhelming because one might ask ‘Oh lordie, you mean I have to read all these series to keep up with this one…the answer is no.’ The connection from series to series is the characters and what they all do. In general, in each one of these series the MCs are dealing with the paranormal either relics or creatures (ghost, ghouls, vampires, etc.) and while the MC’s interact from series to series the author provides enough background to comfortably enable the reader to read as many or as few of the series as you’d like. Personally, I’ve been reading the ‘Badlands’, ‘Treasure Trails’ and obviously ‘Witchbane’ series but haven’t even dipped into ‘Deadly Curiosities’ or ‘Night Vigil’ which isn’t due to lack of desire but a lack of time…so many books, so little time.
Here in ‘Unholy’ Seth and Evan are once again hunting one of the dark warlocks responsible for killing the descendants of the deputies who participated in their hanging only this time they’ve lost the element of surprise and the warlock not only knows they’re coming, he’s taken his sacrifice early and now he’s hunting Seth and Evan. He’s placed a curse on them, one that comes with an expiry date. So, time is of the essence for Seth and Evan. Thankfully here in Charleston, Seth and Evan discover that while time may be running out their resources are stronger than ever.
Without a doubt the absolute best part of this story for me was how much the characters from all of the series that I’ve mentioned got to interact and while I haven’t read them all I had no trouble following what was going on and who was who but, I also developed a strong urge to read the books that I haven’t gotten to yet. So yes, my goal is to do a big binge read on everything that I’ve missed to date and happily while the series are somewhat connected the timeline for each series stands separate and apart from the others.
I’ve been a fan of this series and ‘The Badlands’ from the first books. However, I have to admit until now the ‘Badlands’ has been the series that’s held the stronger attraction for me but with ‘Unholy’ all bets are off and I’m every bit as addicted to Seth and Evan as I am to ‘Simon and Vic’.
This story hooked me quick and fast. I stayed up well into the wee hours of the night reading and then I was awake in the wee hours of the morning to jump back into things. With the events of ‘Unholy’ the author has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for how things play out as Seth and Even continue their efforts to end an age old curse that began over a hundred years ago with the hanging of a coven of dark warlocks and I’m more than a little curious to see how things play out not just for Seth and Evan but for the full cast of characters that that author has introduce us to in this series and the ones that it shares a connection to.
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An ARC of ‘Unholy’ was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Things are getting seriously good here...
‘Unholy’ is the most recent addition to Morgan Brice’s ‘Witchbane’ series and for me as well as becoming my favorite in the series, so far, it’s also accomplished two things…first it’s simply taken things to a whole different level and secondly, more so than any of the previous books, it’s connected the ‘Witchbane’ series to both her ‘Badlands’ and ‘Treasure Trails’ series as well as her ‘Deadly Curiosities’ and ‘Night Vigil’ series which she writes as Gail Z. Martin.
While this may all sound a bit confusing and maybe even overwhelming because one might ask ‘Oh lordie, you mean I have to read all these series to keep up with this one…the answer is no.’ The connection from series to series is the characters and what they all do. In general, in each one of these series the MCs are dealing with the paranormal either relics or creatures (ghost, ghouls, vampires, etc.) and while the MC’s interact from series to series the author provides enough background to comfortably enable the reader to read as many or as few of the series as you’d like. Personally, I’ve been reading the ‘Badlands’, ‘Treasure Trails’ and obviously ‘Witchbane’ series but haven’t even dipped into ‘Deadly Curiosities’ or ‘Night Vigil’ which isn’t due to lack of desire but a lack of time…so many books, so little time.
Here in ‘Unholy’ Seth and Evan are once again hunting one of the dark warlocks responsible for killing the descendants of the deputies who participated in their hanging only this time they’ve lost the element of surprise and the warlock not only knows they’re coming, he’s taken his sacrifice early and now he’s hunting Seth and Evan. He’s placed a curse on them, one that comes with an expiry date. So, time is of the essence for Seth and Evan. Thankfully here in Charleston, Seth and Evan discover that while time may be running out their resources are stronger than ever.
Without a doubt the absolute best part of this story for me was how much the characters from all of the series that I’ve mentioned got to interact and while I haven’t read them all I had no trouble following what was going on and who was who but, I also developed a strong urge to read the books that I haven’t gotten to yet. So yes, my goal is to do a big binge read on everything that I’ve missed to date and happily while the series are somewhat connected the timeline for each series stands separate and apart from the others.
I’ve been a fan of this series and ‘The Badlands’ from the first books. However, I have to admit until now the ‘Badlands’ has been the series that’s held the stronger attraction for me but with ‘Unholy’ all bets are off and I’m every bit as addicted to Seth and Evan as I am to ‘Simon and Vic’.
This story hooked me quick and fast. I stayed up well into the wee hours of the night reading and then I was awake in the wee hours of the morning to jump back into things. With the events of ‘Unholy’ the author has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for how things play out as Seth and Even continue their efforts to end an age old curse that began over a hundred years ago with the hanging of a coven of dark warlocks and I’m more than a little curious to see how things play out not just for Seth and Evan but for the full cast of characters that that author has introduce us to in this series and the ones that it shares a connection to.
*************************
An ARC of ‘Unholy’ was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2020
Future thinking
Seth and Evan are at it again and I missed these two so much. It’s a super nasty witch-disciple they’re up against this time who has some painful tricks up his sleeve. So painful in fact that parts of this book made me teary, but Evan and Seth are never alone. I love how connected they are, how they never fail to stand beside each other, and really love how creative and the lengths they’ll go to be together. They make an extraordinary team no matter what is thrown at them.
One thing I really liked is that we learn some fascinating information that sheds a whole new light on their quest. Plus, I really enjoyed meeting a whole new-to-me cast of characters. They’re amazing and now I need to read their books. All of these people form an amazing found family and I can’t get enough of them. Danger, fascinating magics, a tricky villain, and more excitement and suspense than you can stand await you in this incredible book and in fact, the entire series. What are you waiting for? Read it now!
Seth and Evan are at it again and I missed these two so much. It’s a super nasty witch-disciple they’re up against this time who has some painful tricks up his sleeve. So painful in fact that parts of this book made me teary, but Evan and Seth are never alone. I love how connected they are, how they never fail to stand beside each other, and really love how creative and the lengths they’ll go to be together. They make an extraordinary team no matter what is thrown at them.
One thing I really liked is that we learn some fascinating information that sheds a whole new light on their quest. Plus, I really enjoyed meeting a whole new-to-me cast of characters. They’re amazing and now I need to read their books. All of these people form an amazing found family and I can’t get enough of them. Danger, fascinating magics, a tricky villain, and more excitement and suspense than you can stand await you in this incredible book and in fact, the entire series. What are you waiting for? Read it now!
February 8, 2020
I loved this 5th book in the Witchbane series. I really enjoy Seth and Evan and the continuing story of their quest to eliminate the 12 witch disciples but it's enhanced that much more with this crossover with the characters from The Deadly Curiosities series which is written under Brice's other pen name Gail Z. Martin. I am a huge fan of that series as well so it was heaven having all of these characters working together. Additionally we get further crossover when the characters consult with characters from Brice/Martin's other series as well. All of the universes are aligning here and it's fantastic!
In this book Seth and Evan have headed the RV to Charleston, SC to stop the next warlock. This is where they meet up with Cassidy, Teag and Sorren from the Deadly Curiosities series. In that series, Cassidy owns an antique store which has been in her family for generations and along with her best friend and store manager Teag and 600 year old vampire Simon their mission is to take dangerous magical artifacts out of circulation. Cassidy and Teag both possess magical abilities of their own.
One of the really cool things about the book was the way the characters interact and learn from each other and how their abilities mesh so nicely for this mission. There are some really interesting story elements that weave the plot lines from each series together. While you can certainly read the book on its own your appreciation for the narrative will be greatly enhanced if you've read the previous Witchbane novels and a couple of the Deadly Curiosities books so that you can fully appreciate the characters and what their abilities mean and how they've learned to use them.
Another really cool thing is that Martin/Brice has put out a reading order list of all the books in these interconnecting universes (includes 4 others I didn't mention above). It isn't necessary to read all of these other books before you get to Unholy but as someone who is pretty OCD about reading series in order I found it really helpful as I understood all the references in the books to other characters.
The action is this book is exciting and suspenseful. The villain is strong and presents a major challenge. Other secondary characters from Cassidy's world are called on to help as well. What I am going to find interesting is how the Witchbane series proceeds from here. There is no way Seth and Evan would have taken this warlock on their own and, as has been established in the narrative, all 12 of the warlocks kept track of each other so the nine that are left are going to know Seth and Evan are coming. I don't see how they can possibly think that the two of them will be able to take these next ones on by themselves. They have had very limited help before but this time was huge help and I can't see the mission getting easier. It's going to be a fun needle to watch the author thread!
In this book Seth and Evan have headed the RV to Charleston, SC to stop the next warlock. This is where they meet up with Cassidy, Teag and Sorren from the Deadly Curiosities series. In that series, Cassidy owns an antique store which has been in her family for generations and along with her best friend and store manager Teag and 600 year old vampire Simon their mission is to take dangerous magical artifacts out of circulation. Cassidy and Teag both possess magical abilities of their own.
One of the really cool things about the book was the way the characters interact and learn from each other and how their abilities mesh so nicely for this mission. There are some really interesting story elements that weave the plot lines from each series together. While you can certainly read the book on its own your appreciation for the narrative will be greatly enhanced if you've read the previous Witchbane novels and a couple of the Deadly Curiosities books so that you can fully appreciate the characters and what their abilities mean and how they've learned to use them.
Another really cool thing is that Martin/Brice has put out a reading order list of all the books in these interconnecting universes (includes 4 others I didn't mention above). It isn't necessary to read all of these other books before you get to Unholy but as someone who is pretty OCD about reading series in order I found it really helpful as I understood all the references in the books to other characters.
The action is this book is exciting and suspenseful. The villain is strong and presents a major challenge. Other secondary characters from Cassidy's world are called on to help as well. What I am going to find interesting is how the Witchbane series proceeds from here. There is no way Seth and Evan would have taken this warlock on their own and, as has been established in the narrative, all 12 of the warlocks kept track of each other so the nine that are left are going to know Seth and Evan are coming. I don't see how they can possibly think that the two of them will be able to take these next ones on by themselves. They have had very limited help before but this time was huge help and I can't see the mission getting easier. It's going to be a fun needle to watch the author thread!
February 7, 2020
I have truly enjoyed this series and all the different series that take place in this world. This book is a crossover between Seth and Evan's stories and Gail Z. Martin's Deadly Curiosities and I loved seeing Seth and Evan interact with Cassidy, Teag and the rest.
While Seth and Evan have dealt with deadly antagonists multiple times, this one is ready and on the offensive before they can make it into Charleston. Without giving anything away, the interaction between Seth and Evan was more potent and nuanced due to the consequences of Longstreet's offensive. This story kept me on the edge of my seat, waiting to see what would happen next. It is definitely an exciting addition to both series and I am anticipating seeing some of the new directions affecting both series moving forward. If you enjoy supernatural battles, sarcastic heroes and 'smexy' MM romance, this is the book/series for you!
I was given an ARC of this book as well as have purchased a copy.
While Seth and Evan have dealt with deadly antagonists multiple times, this one is ready and on the offensive before they can make it into Charleston. Without giving anything away, the interaction between Seth and Evan was more potent and nuanced due to the consequences of Longstreet's offensive. This story kept me on the edge of my seat, waiting to see what would happen next. It is definitely an exciting addition to both series and I am anticipating seeing some of the new directions affecting both series moving forward. If you enjoy supernatural battles, sarcastic heroes and 'smexy' MM romance, this is the book/series for you!
I was given an ARC of this book as well as have purchased a copy.
May 3, 2025
I’m getting a bit overwhelmed by all of the side characters
June 20, 2020
This is the fifth book in the series and it is intense. Seth and Evan are heading to Charleston to meet up with Cassidy and friends. Unfortunately, this witch is ready for them and wants them dead. There are several names in this book i was not familiar with, they have their own books, however I did not detract from the story. There are strong witches, lesser witches, class distinction between witches, zombies! and a whole lot of action. A fabulous end to a great series!
February 14, 2022
This book is a crossover between Seth and Evan's stories and Gail Z. Martin's (Morgan Brice)…Deadly Curiosities It was great seeing Seth and Evan interact with Cassidy...Teag, and the rest. I've absolutely loved each adventure Seth and Evan have been on to destroy these witch disciples that killed Seth’s brother in the first book Witchbane… and the further into each book we've gotten the more danger they are up against while worse, creepy things try to take them out...including a rouge ex-boyfriend. I was glad to see they had some talented additional help from new arrivals that we meet and the friends they make that helped them with this one because Seth and Evan both were on borrowed time. I want this series to go on for a very long time.
June 12, 2021
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2021/06/11/...
Rating: 4.5 Stars – perfection is only half a step away
Rating: 4.5 Stars – perfection is only half a step away
April 9, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Unholy is the fifth book in Morgan Brice’s Witchbane series and a nice installment that provides a bit of transition for the series. Seth and Evan have always been operating under some assumptions about the disciples and their patterns and motives, but here they start to realize not all is as they believed. I think changing things up a bit with the formula is helpful, as we are now at the fifth book and the stories had taken on somewhat of a pattern as the men move from disciple to disciple in each book. We also have an added element here as the killer has already struck, and this time the men are both trying to save themselves from the curse, as well as to learn more about the other things he is up to. That said, things aren’t shaken up too much in that the pattern of arrive, track down the bad guy, investigate, and confront is still fairly intact. But I do think the changes brought some freshness to the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Unholy is the fifth book in Morgan Brice’s Witchbane series and a nice installment that provides a bit of transition for the series. Seth and Evan have always been operating under some assumptions about the disciples and their patterns and motives, but here they start to realize not all is as they believed. I think changing things up a bit with the formula is helpful, as we are now at the fifth book and the stories had taken on somewhat of a pattern as the men move from disciple to disciple in each book. We also have an added element here as the killer has already struck, and this time the men are both trying to save themselves from the curse, as well as to learn more about the other things he is up to. That said, things aren’t shaken up too much in that the pattern of arrive, track down the bad guy, investigate, and confront is still fairly intact. But I do think the changes brought some freshness to the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
February 24, 2020
Each book gets scarier and fighting the bad warlock gets harder with each one, as it should be. Their next stop is Charleston where they meet up with Cassidy, Teag and Sorren from the Deadly Curiosities series. I have not read that series and really need to. On the way to see Cassidy, they are involved in a pretty serious auto accident, which they believe that Longstreet, the next disciple, caused the accident. While in the hospital, a very nasty curse is laid upon Seth & Evan and if it’s not broken, they will die. The curse does not allow them to touch each other & that broke my heart because they are so in love. They find out that they are too late to save the next sacrifice, but they do meet his brother Logan. We also find out a different theory on the how/why all of this started, which I never thought about and am curious on how that part will wrap up in the end. But I don't want to get there because then it would end. Anyway, I really enjoyed the investigation on trying to find out where the bad guy is and trying to break the curse. There are now 9 Warlocks left and I can't imagine any of them getting any easier to defeat. I imagine that when the finally show down happens, they all will need to come together to bring an end to the final disciples.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2020
Seth and Evan are pursuing a murderous witch disciple who strikes them with an unusual curse, one that keeps them from physically touching each other. They draw on the assistance of an extended “family of the heart” (I love that phrase, from chapter 11) that includes Cassidy, Teag, and other characters from the Deadly Curiosities series that Morgan Brice writes under the name Gail Z. Martin. Characters from others series by Brice/Martin also play supporting roles, including Simon from my all-time favorite urban fantasy series, Badlands. There are several hot-as-hell MM love scenes in Unholy, but romance takes a backseat to action and the power of friends working together in this thrilling novel. There’s a penultimate scene set in an abandoned cabin in a swamp that is breathtakingly exciting as well as touching – and it involves swamp zombies!
February 8, 2020
Seth and Evan are on the hunt for the next witch disciple and this time the hunt takes them to Charleston, SC. Here they meet several colorful characters who are members of the "Alliance", a group that takes out supernatural threats. Somehow the most recent disciple has managed to fly under the radar, but no more. And with a curse cast on them, the stakes are higher than ever to stop the cycle of sacrifice.
I LOVED this book. Morgan Brice is a master of creating likable characters and weaving tales. Many of her books contain crossovers to her other titles, both those under this name and her other pen name Gail Z Martin. You can read this book by itself, but some of the references may make a little more sense if you have read the other 4 first. I highly recommend reading this one and then looking up the other books mentioned in the author's "Afterword." You won't regret it!
I LOVED this book. Morgan Brice is a master of creating likable characters and weaving tales. Many of her books contain crossovers to her other titles, both those under this name and her other pen name Gail Z Martin. You can read this book by itself, but some of the references may make a little more sense if you have read the other 4 first. I highly recommend reading this one and then looking up the other books mentioned in the author's "Afterword." You won't regret it!
February 8, 2020
Seth and Evan are on the hunt for the next witch disciple and this time the hunt takes them to Charleston, SC. Here they meet several colorful characters who are members of the "Alliance", a group that takes out supernatural threats. Somehow the most recent disciple has managed to fly under the radar, but no more. And with a curse cast on them, the stakes are higher than ever to stop the cycle of sacrifice.
I LOVED this book. Morgan Brice is a master of creating likable characters and weaving tales. Many of her books contain crossovers to her other titles, both those under this name and her other pen name Gail Z Martin. You can read this book by itself, but some of the references may make a little more sense if you have read the other 4 first. I highly recommend reading this one and then looking up the other books mentioned in the author's "Afterword." You won't regret it!
I LOVED this book. Morgan Brice is a master of creating likable characters and weaving tales. Many of her books contain crossovers to her other titles, both those under this name and her other pen name Gail Z Martin. You can read this book by itself, but some of the references may make a little more sense if you have read the other 4 first. I highly recommend reading this one and then looking up the other books mentioned in the author's "Afterword." You won't regret it!
May 17, 2021
Couldn't put it down! From the first chapter, I was hooked and Seth and Evan were in trouble!
Following on from Flames and Ash, Seth and Evan are on the trail of the next witch disciple and meet up with Cassidy Kincaide and her whole crew. With a curse plaguing them Seth and Evan's fight is even more challenging. I was on the edge of my seat for most of this story with this being the smartest (& sickest) witch disciple yet. So much action and danger and Morgan does a great job of hooking us until the very end! I love this whole worth, found family and series, and can't wait for more!!!
Following on from Flames and Ash, Seth and Evan are on the trail of the next witch disciple and meet up with Cassidy Kincaide and her whole crew. With a curse plaguing them Seth and Evan's fight is even more challenging. I was on the edge of my seat for most of this story with this being the smartest (& sickest) witch disciple yet. So much action and danger and Morgan does a great job of hooking us until the very end! I love this whole worth, found family and series, and can't wait for more!!!
July 30, 2025
Thanks to a curse that keeps Seth and Evan apart, this one had minimal sex and the author focused on the story, which, for me, makes it the best book in the series so far. Here's hoping another curse is placed on them in the next book so the author can focus on the actual hunt.
February 8, 2020
Another great addition to the series. There’s lot of crossover characters and a whole lot of fun in this one. The stakes were high and I loved he suspense!
May 2, 2025
Audio
June 17, 2021
this is such a good story.. and amazing series. it ws fun and action packed.. curious and amazing.. made me smile and happy.
March 1, 2020
"Unholy" is the fourth volume of "Witchbane" series by Morgan Brice and without a doubt the best installment so far. The reason I fell in love with this novel in the blink of an eye is the story the author tells us in this part. I really liked the fact that this time the hunt for the warlock is becoming even more personal than before. It may seem impossible, but the author has found a way to, to a certain extent, put revenge and crusade to save lives aside. Instead, in "Unholy" we see a completely new, really strong and impressive reason for which Seth and Evan must find Rhyfel Gremory's disciple. To be honest, when this reason appeared in the novel, my reaction was immediate: "OMG! I love it! It's terrible, but I love it!". Morgan Brice really surprised me because I completely didn't expect such a development of the situation, such a story in this story. If I could, I would tell you immediately what this is all about, but I won't take the pleasure of discovering the events of this volume away from you. I'll just say that "Unholy" is really worth reading.
Another advantage of this volume is the completely new information concerning the witch disciples our characters get. This is another secret of the story, which I can't reveal to you, but I can assure you that these are revelations that we, just like our boys, didn't expect. But that's not all as the things we learn in "Unholy" are the reason the whole series suddenly takes on completely different vibe. Seth and Evan's journey is filled with question marks even more than before, and the final end of their mission is impossible to predict. Right now it's no longer about being victorious or failing. The author sows in us and in her characters the seeds of doubt that sprouts with the question: what does the success of the mission mean for us? What will happen when we win? In this really fantastic way, the author makes "Witchbane" series even more interesting, because now everything can happen, and the consequences of stopping the series of ritual murders don't have to be positive.
Just another advantage of "Unholy" is the fact that the novel combines two series of the author, namely "Witchbane" and "Deadly Curiosities", which the author writes under her real name Gail Z. Martin. I admit, this is nothing new for this writer, but in this book these two series intertwine with each other to such an extent that they actually merge into one. What's more, the events presented in "Unholy" are of such great importance that they indisputably effect the entire "Deadly Curiosities" series. This means that the reader will be able to read about the consequences in the next part of the series about Cassidy Kincaide, or at least in the volume that presents the events following "Unholy". This is madness! One universe, many series embedded in it, which at one point meet. I love it! I also want to add that in the novel one of the characters mentions a trip about which the reader can read in the story Gail Z. Martin wrote for "Christmas at Caynham Castle" anthology. Well, at the moment I have heart-shaped eyes.
Finally, I want to go back to Seth and Evan. In "Unholy" I also liked the fact that our two leading characters more often think about the side of their life that is not related to the supernatural hunting. Our boys' everyday life has undoubtedly been permanently marked by all this supernatural madness, however, Seth and Evan also think about completely mundane things, and more specifically about the future of their relationship. It is so sweet and heartwarming that I was smiling every time I read about it, even if smile wasn't appropriate in the given situation. It may seem that mundane, ordinary thoughts about the future are not a big deal, and yet in a series such as "Witchbane" they acquire a completely different, magical even meaning, because they are like a rainbow on the dark sky full of stormy clouds.
In summary, "Unholy" is simply a phenomenal novel that completely engrosses the reader and keeps them in suspense from the very beginning to the end. With this book, the author delights and surprises us many times, draws us into her universe and encourages us to reach not only for her Morgan Brice's series, but also for those she writes as Gail Z. Martin.
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„Unholy” jest czwartym tomem serii „Witchbane” autorstwa Morgan Brice i bez wątpienia najlepszym z dotychczas wydanych. Tym, co sprawiło, że szybko straciłam głowę dla tej powieści jest historia, którą autorka opowiada nam w tej części. Niesamowicie spodobał mi się fakt, iż tym razem polowanie na czarownika staje się jeszcze bardziej osobistym przedsięwzięciem niż dotychczas. Wydawać się może, że to niemożliwe, a jednak autorka znalazła sposób aby w pewnym stopniu odsunąć na dalszy plan zemstę i krucjatę mającą na celu ocalenie wielu żyć, a zamiast tego, w „Unholy” odnajdujemy zupełnie nowy, naprawdę mocny i robiący ogromne wrażenie powód, dla którego Seth i Evan muszą odnaleźć ucznia Rhyfela Gremory’ego. Powiem szczerze, kiedy wspomniany powód pojawił się w powieści, moja reakcja była natychmiastowa: „O boziu! Kocham to! To straszne, ale kocham to!”. Nie będę ukrywać, że Morgan Brice mnie zaskoczyła, ponieważ zupełnie nie spodziewałam się takiego rozwoju sytuacji, takiej historii w tej historii. Gdybym mogła, od razu zdradziłabym Wam o co chodzi, ale nie pozbawię Was przyjemności samodzielnego odkrycia wydarzeń tego tomu. Powiem tylko, że naprawdę warto sięgnąć po „Unholy”.
Kolejną zaletą tego tomu są zupełnie nowe informacje, jakie nasi bohaterowie zdobywają na temat uczniów czarownika. Jest to kolejny sekret fabuły, którego nie mogę Wam zdradzić, mogę Was jednak zapewnić, że są to rewelacje, których się nie spodziewaliśmy, podobnie zresztą jak nasi chłopcy. Mało tego, rzeczy, których dowiadujemy się w „Unholy” sprawiają, że cała seria nagle nabiera zupełnie innych barw, ponieważ na drodze Setha i Evana pojawia się jeszcze więcej niż dotychczas znaków zapytania, a ostatecznego zakończenia ich misji nie sposób przewidzieć. Teraz nie chodzi już bowiem o zwykłe uda się/nie uda. Autorka zasiała w nas oraz w swoich bohaterach ziarenko niepewności, które kiełkuje pytaniem: co będzie oznaczał sukces misji? Co się wydarzy, kiedy zwyciężymy? W ten naprawdę fantastyczny sposób, autorka uczyniła serię „Witchbane” zdecydowanie bardziej interesującą, ponieważ teraz wydarzyć może się wszystko, a konsekwencje zatrzymania serii rytualnych morderstw wcale nie muszą być pozytywne.
Inną zaletą „Unholy” jest fakt, iż powieść łączy w sobie dwie serie autorki, a więc „Witchbane” oraz „Deadly Curiosities”, którą autorka pisze pod swoim prawdziwym nazwiskiem Gail Z. Martin. Przyznaję, w przypadku tej pisarki nie jest to niczym nowym, jednak w tej książce te dwie serie przenikają się tak dalece, że tak naprawdę scalają się w jedno. Co więcej, wydarzenia przedstawione w „Unholy” mają tak ogromne znaczenie, że bezsprzecznie wywierają wpływ na całą serię „Deadly Curiosities”. To oznacza, że ich konsekwencje czytelnik zobaczy w kolejnej części serii o Cassidy Kincaide, a przynajmniej w tomie, który będzie przedstawiał wydarzenia następujące po ��Unholy”. To jest po prostu obłędne! Jedno uniwersum, wiele serii w nim osadzonych, które w pewnym momencie się ze sobą schodzą. Kocham to! Dodam jeszcze, że na kartach powieści wspomniany jest także wyjazd, o którym czytelnik może przeczytać w opowiadaniu Gail Z. Martin, które pojawiło się w antologii "Christmas at Caynham Castle". Moje oczy mają teraz kształt serc.
Na koniec wrócę do Setha i Evana. W „Unholy” bardzo spodobało mi się również to, że nasza dwójka wiodących bohaterów coraz więcej myśli o życiu niezwiązanym z paranormalnymi polowaniami. Codzienność naszych chłopców bez wątpienia została naznaczona przez całe to supernaturalne szaleństwo już na zawsze, jednakże Seth i Evan potrafią myśleć także o zupełnie przyziemnych rzeczach, a dokładniej mówiąc o przyszłości swojego związku. Jest to tak słodkie i rozczulające, że na mojej twarzy za każdym razem pojawiał się uśmiech, nawet jeśli sytuacja nie sprzyjała uśmiechom. Może się wydawać, że przyziemne, zwyczajne myśli o przyszłości to nic wielkiego, a jednak w serii takiej jak „Witchbane” nabierają one zupełnie innego, wręcz magicznego znaczenia, są bowiem niczym tęcza na tle ciemnego, pokrytego burzowymi chmurami nieba.
Podsumowując, „Unholy” jest powieścią po prostu fenomenalną, która zniewala czytelnika i trzyma w napięciu od samego początku do końca. Tą książką autorka zachwyca nas i zaskakuje wielokrotnie, wciąga w swoje uniwersum i zachęca nas do sięgnięcia nie tylko po serie, które pisze pod pseudonimem Morgan Brice, ale także po wszystkie napisane jako Gail Z. Martin.
Another advantage of this volume is the completely new information concerning the witch disciples our characters get. This is another secret of the story, which I can't reveal to you, but I can assure you that these are revelations that we, just like our boys, didn't expect. But that's not all as the things we learn in "Unholy" are the reason the whole series suddenly takes on completely different vibe. Seth and Evan's journey is filled with question marks even more than before, and the final end of their mission is impossible to predict. Right now it's no longer about being victorious or failing. The author sows in us and in her characters the seeds of doubt that sprouts with the question: what does the success of the mission mean for us? What will happen when we win? In this really fantastic way, the author makes "Witchbane" series even more interesting, because now everything can happen, and the consequences of stopping the series of ritual murders don't have to be positive.
Just another advantage of "Unholy" is the fact that the novel combines two series of the author, namely "Witchbane" and "Deadly Curiosities", which the author writes under her real name Gail Z. Martin. I admit, this is nothing new for this writer, but in this book these two series intertwine with each other to such an extent that they actually merge into one. What's more, the events presented in "Unholy" are of such great importance that they indisputably effect the entire "Deadly Curiosities" series. This means that the reader will be able to read about the consequences in the next part of the series about Cassidy Kincaide, or at least in the volume that presents the events following "Unholy". This is madness! One universe, many series embedded in it, which at one point meet. I love it! I also want to add that in the novel one of the characters mentions a trip about which the reader can read in the story Gail Z. Martin wrote for "Christmas at Caynham Castle" anthology. Well, at the moment I have heart-shaped eyes.
Finally, I want to go back to Seth and Evan. In "Unholy" I also liked the fact that our two leading characters more often think about the side of their life that is not related to the supernatural hunting. Our boys' everyday life has undoubtedly been permanently marked by all this supernatural madness, however, Seth and Evan also think about completely mundane things, and more specifically about the future of their relationship. It is so sweet and heartwarming that I was smiling every time I read about it, even if smile wasn't appropriate in the given situation. It may seem that mundane, ordinary thoughts about the future are not a big deal, and yet in a series such as "Witchbane" they acquire a completely different, magical even meaning, because they are like a rainbow on the dark sky full of stormy clouds.
In summary, "Unholy" is simply a phenomenal novel that completely engrosses the reader and keeps them in suspense from the very beginning to the end. With this book, the author delights and surprises us many times, draws us into her universe and encourages us to reach not only for her Morgan Brice's series, but also for those she writes as Gail Z. Martin.
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„Unholy” jest czwartym tomem serii „Witchbane” autorstwa Morgan Brice i bez wątpienia najlepszym z dotychczas wydanych. Tym, co sprawiło, że szybko straciłam głowę dla tej powieści jest historia, którą autorka opowiada nam w tej części. Niesamowicie spodobał mi się fakt, iż tym razem polowanie na czarownika staje się jeszcze bardziej osobistym przedsięwzięciem niż dotychczas. Wydawać się może, że to niemożliwe, a jednak autorka znalazła sposób aby w pewnym stopniu odsunąć na dalszy plan zemstę i krucjatę mającą na celu ocalenie wielu żyć, a zamiast tego, w „Unholy” odnajdujemy zupełnie nowy, naprawdę mocny i robiący ogromne wrażenie powód, dla którego Seth i Evan muszą odnaleźć ucznia Rhyfela Gremory’ego. Powiem szczerze, kiedy wspomniany powód pojawił się w powieści, moja reakcja była natychmiastowa: „O boziu! Kocham to! To straszne, ale kocham to!”. Nie będę ukrywać, że Morgan Brice mnie zaskoczyła, ponieważ zupełnie nie spodziewałam się takiego rozwoju sytuacji, takiej historii w tej historii. Gdybym mogła, od razu zdradziłabym Wam o co chodzi, ale nie pozbawię Was przyjemności samodzielnego odkrycia wydarzeń tego tomu. Powiem tylko, że naprawdę warto sięgnąć po „Unholy”.
Kolejną zaletą tego tomu są zupełnie nowe informacje, jakie nasi bohaterowie zdobywają na temat uczniów czarownika. Jest to kolejny sekret fabuły, którego nie mogę Wam zdradzić, mogę Was jednak zapewnić, że są to rewelacje, których się nie spodziewaliśmy, podobnie zresztą jak nasi chłopcy. Mało tego, rzeczy, których dowiadujemy się w „Unholy” sprawiają, że cała seria nagle nabiera zupełnie innych barw, ponieważ na drodze Setha i Evana pojawia się jeszcze więcej niż dotychczas znaków zapytania, a ostatecznego zakończenia ich misji nie sposób przewidzieć. Teraz nie chodzi już bowiem o zwykłe uda się/nie uda. Autorka zasiała w nas oraz w swoich bohaterach ziarenko niepewności, które kiełkuje pytaniem: co będzie oznaczał sukces misji? Co się wydarzy, kiedy zwyciężymy? W ten naprawdę fantastyczny sposób, autorka uczyniła serię „Witchbane” zdecydowanie bardziej interesującą, ponieważ teraz wydarzyć może się wszystko, a konsekwencje zatrzymania serii rytualnych morderstw wcale nie muszą być pozytywne.
Inną zaletą „Unholy” jest fakt, iż powieść łączy w sobie dwie serie autorki, a więc „Witchbane” oraz „Deadly Curiosities”, którą autorka pisze pod swoim prawdziwym nazwiskiem Gail Z. Martin. Przyznaję, w przypadku tej pisarki nie jest to niczym nowym, jednak w tej książce te dwie serie przenikają się tak dalece, że tak naprawdę scalają się w jedno. Co więcej, wydarzenia przedstawione w „Unholy” mają tak ogromne znaczenie, że bezsprzecznie wywierają wpływ na całą serię „Deadly Curiosities”. To oznacza, że ich konsekwencje czytelnik zobaczy w kolejnej części serii o Cassidy Kincaide, a przynajmniej w tomie, który będzie przedstawiał wydarzenia następujące po ��Unholy”. To jest po prostu obłędne! Jedno uniwersum, wiele serii w nim osadzonych, które w pewnym momencie się ze sobą schodzą. Kocham to! Dodam jeszcze, że na kartach powieści wspomniany jest także wyjazd, o którym czytelnik może przeczytać w opowiadaniu Gail Z. Martin, które pojawiło się w antologii "Christmas at Caynham Castle". Moje oczy mają teraz kształt serc.
Na koniec wrócę do Setha i Evana. W „Unholy” bardzo spodobało mi się również to, że nasza dwójka wiodących bohaterów coraz więcej myśli o życiu niezwiązanym z paranormalnymi polowaniami. Codzienność naszych chłopców bez wątpienia została naznaczona przez całe to supernaturalne szaleństwo już na zawsze, jednakże Seth i Evan potrafią myśleć także o zupełnie przyziemnych rzeczach, a dokładniej mówiąc o przyszłości swojego związku. Jest to tak słodkie i rozczulające, że na mojej twarzy za każdym razem pojawiał się uśmiech, nawet jeśli sytuacja nie sprzyjała uśmiechom. Może się wydawać, że przyziemne, zwyczajne myśli o przyszłości to nic wielkiego, a jednak w serii takiej jak „Witchbane” nabierają one zupełnie innego, wręcz magicznego znaczenia, są bowiem niczym tęcza na tle ciemnego, pokrytego burzowymi chmurami nieba.
Podsumowując, „Unholy” jest powieścią po prostu fenomenalną, która zniewala czytelnika i trzyma w napięciu od samego początku do końca. Tą książką autorka zachwyca nas i zaskakuje wielokrotnie, wciąga w swoje uniwersum i zachęca nas do sięgnięcia nie tylko po serie, które pisze pod pseudonimem Morgan Brice, ale także po wszystkie napisane jako Gail Z. Martin.
May 8, 2021
I have become so thoroughly invested in this series. This time around Seth and Evan are headed to Charleston, and after a very rough start get to meet up with a group of characters from another series by the author. I loved having this full-on infusion of characters into Seth and Evan’s storyline, primarily because they each bring their individual talents to the table and everyone works so well as a team.
Bringing in this set of characters doesn’t overshadow Seth and Evan’s story, it actually enhances it quite a bit. It definitely places the spotlight on found family, particularly for Evan, and if I hadn’t already added their books to my TBR, this story would have had me doing it now.
The stakes are even higher this time around with Seth and Evan encountering trouble almost from the very start of the story. There are new revelations regarding the “why” behind the witch disciple plans that will change everyone’s perspective. And to top it al off, the guys have an unusual problem getting in their way—literally—that does a number on them emotionally.
It’s another exciting hunt with new elements introduced to keep the series fresh, and I can’t stress enough how much I enjoyed having Cassidy, Rowan, Teague and the rest of the crew from the Deadly Curiosities series along with cameos from Badlands and Night Vigil series characters. Don’t worry, you don’t need to have read all these other series to understand what’s going on here in Unholy (though you should have read the prior Witchbane series books). Unholy was a 5-star book for me, and though Seth and Evan don’t get much physical time with each other this story is still meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
The narration: Kale Williams continues to do an excellent job narrating this series with consistent character voices, even pacing and just the right amount of emotion. I wound up listening to this in a single sitting thanks to being so thoroughly pulled in to the story. 5 stars for the narration!
Bringing in this set of characters doesn’t overshadow Seth and Evan’s story, it actually enhances it quite a bit. It definitely places the spotlight on found family, particularly for Evan, and if I hadn’t already added their books to my TBR, this story would have had me doing it now.
The stakes are even higher this time around with Seth and Evan encountering trouble almost from the very start of the story. There are new revelations regarding the “why” behind the witch disciple plans that will change everyone’s perspective. And to top it al off, the guys have an unusual problem getting in their way—literally—that does a number on them emotionally.
It’s another exciting hunt with new elements introduced to keep the series fresh, and I can’t stress enough how much I enjoyed having Cassidy, Rowan, Teague and the rest of the crew from the Deadly Curiosities series along with cameos from Badlands and Night Vigil series characters. Don’t worry, you don’t need to have read all these other series to understand what’s going on here in Unholy (though you should have read the prior Witchbane series books). Unholy was a 5-star book for me, and though Seth and Evan don’t get much physical time with each other this story is still meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
The narration: Kale Williams continues to do an excellent job narrating this series with consistent character voices, even pacing and just the right amount of emotion. I wound up listening to this in a single sitting thanks to being so thoroughly pulled in to the story. 5 stars for the narration!
June 21, 2020
I love this series, but more importantly I love Seth and Evan. These two have so much going on in their lives and are fighting like hell, but when they are together, they are even stronger. My heart broke for them in this book. It’s hard to deal with all the stuff they need to in order to survive, but they have each other to keep them sane. Having a small part of that removed was heartbreaking to watch. It made me root even harder for them, though. This book has us connecting with other characters from a different series and it is clear that the next “missions” are just going to be harder and need more support from their friends and community. Either way, I am really looking forward to more of these guys and watching them get rid of the rest of the nasty disciples.
February 9, 2021
Not as strong as previous books, this one was a little too full of other characters who all had their own shit going on. Still, the plot was decent and it did give you a glimpse of the wider world.
March 3, 2020
What I Think: This tale starts right in the middle which means it’s such a tease as it mentions events in passing that I want to see for myself. Not fair! Don’t forget that I did a review for this Authoress’ last tale too and it was such a teaser as well. Double unfair! As always, she starts us off with trouble because there’s no rest for either the wicked or the good in this Authoress’ world.
After the first slam comes the second one right on its heels and I think whoever thought this particular curse or hex up must be really evil. We never take touch for granted until we can’t experience it. Human beings are tactile by nature (not necessarily towards each other but the things we like. You know, our pets, that soft sweater, the rough bark of a tree etc.) but when that touch causes pain to a lover, then you know just how important it is.
As an aside, why are this Authoress’ characters so cool with such cool names? Tell me, why is Cassidy such a sexy name? And why Does Father Anne sound so much more appropriate than Mother Anne especially after seeing her in action? The witch disciple being hunted this time has made things very personal but Evan and Seth have been met by an amazing group of people with differing skills and willing to join the battle, giving them the right kind of allies they need. This is apparently a spin-off series from the Badlands series as I’ve seen quite a few familiar characters.
Then a street fight comes up which let’s me see my latest heartthrob in action just as I realize just how much I want Evan and Seth to be okay. I love the determination this couple has in spite of the odds stacked against them. They both refuse to go down without a fight or let go of each other.
I do have to admit one thing though and I sincerely pray it’s not offensive. If it is, I’m prostrate in abject abasement. This tale made me miss the series Supernatural so much. It’s just like I was allowed to step onto the Supernatural set and I’m loving it so much that I can’t stop. It’s the Supernatural episode with the gay couples we never got and we deserved so this is almost, almost like high level, addictive fanfic for me.
The lovemaking just took things to a whole ‘nother intimate level as even though it wasn’t phone sex, these two finally got my dense brain to understand how and why phone sex works because I needed to sit right in front of an air conditioner during a particular scene. But by its end, I’m so ready to go after this evil witch myself. I’m angry enough to chew glass and spit out nails!
Finally, Supernatural was mentioned and I don’t feel so guilty anymore! It’s amazing that with so many compelling characters at play, this Authoress still manages to keep our attention on Evan and Seth. I just want them to be okay so bad that I’m speed reading at this point. This Authoress is truly mistress of her world and so detailed that the marsh through which the canoes slid through came alive around me. Evan and Seth’s new found family were each uniquely detailed and so real that I felt I could walk into a bar and recognize them. Now, there’s only one problem – I just did an online search and realized there are entire series that include these amazing characters that I desperately need to get to know. Only solution? A Morgan Brice/Gail Z Martin marathon needs to happen in the very near future!
Verdict? A keeper that’s a perfectly witchy tale for those of us who can’t get enough of the supernatural!
After the first slam comes the second one right on its heels and I think whoever thought this particular curse or hex up must be really evil. We never take touch for granted until we can’t experience it. Human beings are tactile by nature (not necessarily towards each other but the things we like. You know, our pets, that soft sweater, the rough bark of a tree etc.) but when that touch causes pain to a lover, then you know just how important it is.
As an aside, why are this Authoress’ characters so cool with such cool names? Tell me, why is Cassidy such a sexy name? And why Does Father Anne sound so much more appropriate than Mother Anne especially after seeing her in action? The witch disciple being hunted this time has made things very personal but Evan and Seth have been met by an amazing group of people with differing skills and willing to join the battle, giving them the right kind of allies they need. This is apparently a spin-off series from the Badlands series as I’ve seen quite a few familiar characters.
Then a street fight comes up which let’s me see my latest heartthrob in action just as I realize just how much I want Evan and Seth to be okay. I love the determination this couple has in spite of the odds stacked against them. They both refuse to go down without a fight or let go of each other.
I do have to admit one thing though and I sincerely pray it’s not offensive. If it is, I’m prostrate in abject abasement. This tale made me miss the series Supernatural so much. It’s just like I was allowed to step onto the Supernatural set and I’m loving it so much that I can’t stop. It’s the Supernatural episode with the gay couples we never got and we deserved so this is almost, almost like high level, addictive fanfic for me.
The lovemaking just took things to a whole ‘nother intimate level as even though it wasn’t phone sex, these two finally got my dense brain to understand how and why phone sex works because I needed to sit right in front of an air conditioner during a particular scene. But by its end, I’m so ready to go after this evil witch myself. I’m angry enough to chew glass and spit out nails!
Finally, Supernatural was mentioned and I don’t feel so guilty anymore! It’s amazing that with so many compelling characters at play, this Authoress still manages to keep our attention on Evan and Seth. I just want them to be okay so bad that I’m speed reading at this point. This Authoress is truly mistress of her world and so detailed that the marsh through which the canoes slid through came alive around me. Evan and Seth’s new found family were each uniquely detailed and so real that I felt I could walk into a bar and recognize them. Now, there’s only one problem – I just did an online search and realized there are entire series that include these amazing characters that I desperately need to get to know. Only solution? A Morgan Brice/Gail Z Martin marathon needs to happen in the very near future!
Verdict? A keeper that’s a perfectly witchy tale for those of us who can’t get enough of the supernatural!
May 1, 2021
4.5 stars!
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Note: This is the fifth book in this series and builds on the events of the previous books. There are major spoilers for all previous books in this installment and as such, it’s recommended to consume these books in order.
Shortly after the events of Flame & Ash, Evan and Seth head to Charleston to find the next Dark Witch and neutralize him before he cycle. However, when they get there, the witch has moved up the timeline and the intended victim has already been sacrificed and his younger brother is missing. On the way into town, they are involved in a car accident that damaged Seth’s truck and puts them out of commission. Luckily they were on their way to meet with hunter friends in town and so are picked up by these same friends.
In Charleston, there are a lot more people that seem to be aware of magic and they have a society of sorts that run the town. These include a number of witches and other powerful magic holders – and a surprising vampire and necromancer too. But in addition to the dark witch they are after, Seth and Evan also have to fight a curse that has been placed on them while they were vulnerable after the car accident that forces them apart. They literally cannot touch each other without pain and worse yet, the consequences of this curse could be deadly. Add to that a class war between the old guard/old families in Charleston and the witch gangs who have been kept out of any of the power structure and there are just a lot of distractions from the task of finding the destroying the dark witch.
The Charleston magic community though acknowledges that changes need to be made and so they are all in helping Seth and Evan – and really themselves too – rid the area of this dark witch. It turns out not only is he following the same pattern as the other witches in sacrificing the descendants of the original killers of the witch master, but he’s been engaged in a lot of other really bad stuff. Evan and Seth unwittingly help uncover a pattern of unsolved disturbances for which the Charleston group is most appreciative. And they all work as a team to stop the latest potential disaster and save more than just the brother of the original victim.
I’m liking this series more with each book! I loved the additional magic and hunters and characters in this book. The vampire and necromancer characters were great addition to this universe. There are guest appearances from Milo and Toby and Simon from past books and they help Seth and Evan with the tasks at hand and do their best from afar to give them support. The battle with the dark witch was really exciting without being as gruesome and some rituals of the past books, but I was racing through just waiting to see what would happen. I loved the suspense and the use of magic and both Even and Seth were able to contribute. Once again, Kale Williams does a great job with the narration. His voice choices for a really large cast of characters I thought were really fantastic. He does such a good job with both male and female voices and also with conveying the emotional tone of each of the scenes. I really cannot wait to see what happens next when Even and Seth get to Cleveland 😀
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Note: This is the fifth book in this series and builds on the events of the previous books. There are major spoilers for all previous books in this installment and as such, it’s recommended to consume these books in order.
Shortly after the events of Flame & Ash, Evan and Seth head to Charleston to find the next Dark Witch and neutralize him before he cycle. However, when they get there, the witch has moved up the timeline and the intended victim has already been sacrificed and his younger brother is missing. On the way into town, they are involved in a car accident that damaged Seth’s truck and puts them out of commission. Luckily they were on their way to meet with hunter friends in town and so are picked up by these same friends.
In Charleston, there are a lot more people that seem to be aware of magic and they have a society of sorts that run the town. These include a number of witches and other powerful magic holders – and a surprising vampire and necromancer too. But in addition to the dark witch they are after, Seth and Evan also have to fight a curse that has been placed on them while they were vulnerable after the car accident that forces them apart. They literally cannot touch each other without pain and worse yet, the consequences of this curse could be deadly. Add to that a class war between the old guard/old families in Charleston and the witch gangs who have been kept out of any of the power structure and there are just a lot of distractions from the task of finding the destroying the dark witch.
The Charleston magic community though acknowledges that changes need to be made and so they are all in helping Seth and Evan – and really themselves too – rid the area of this dark witch. It turns out not only is he following the same pattern as the other witches in sacrificing the descendants of the original killers of the witch master, but he’s been engaged in a lot of other really bad stuff. Evan and Seth unwittingly help uncover a pattern of unsolved disturbances for which the Charleston group is most appreciative. And they all work as a team to stop the latest potential disaster and save more than just the brother of the original victim.
I’m liking this series more with each book! I loved the additional magic and hunters and characters in this book. The vampire and necromancer characters were great addition to this universe. There are guest appearances from Milo and Toby and Simon from past books and they help Seth and Evan with the tasks at hand and do their best from afar to give them support. The battle with the dark witch was really exciting without being as gruesome and some rituals of the past books, but I was racing through just waiting to see what would happen. I loved the suspense and the use of magic and both Even and Seth were able to contribute. Once again, Kale Williams does a great job with the narration. His voice choices for a really large cast of characters I thought were really fantastic. He does such a good job with both male and female voices and also with conveying the emotional tone of each of the scenes. I really cannot wait to see what happens next when Even and Seth get to Cleveland 😀
May 2, 2021
Audiobook review:
Performance – 5
Story – 5
Overall – 5
I love it even more as an audiobook!
I first read Unholy just a little over a year ago and loved it. Now that I’ve listened to the audiobook, I love it even more. If you are new to this series, or to Morgan Brice’s books, don’t hesitate to jump in anywhere in a series. While I usually prefer reading series in order, that didn’t happen with Witchbane as I was a latecomer to her books. I never felt lost while reading/listening to this.
Kale Williams did another great job with the audiobook and it really held my attention even though I’d previously read the book. I think he has done a great job with this series overall; now I just need to make time to listen to books 1-3. 😊
I really can’t think of anything more to say that I didn’t already say in my original review shown below.
Wow, is kind of my reaction to Unholy; I'm not sure where to begin with my review. I truly never thought I'd enjoy stories about monster/witch/ghost hunters but I was sure wrong – at least when it comes to books by Morgan Brice.
Seth and Evan are hunting for a really bad witch-disciple who turns out to be even more awful than they originally thought. The blurb really says it all much better than I can. I don't think it's a spoiler to say that the curse put on Seth and Even, which is mentioned in the blurb, is one that won't let them touch each other without extreme pain and possibly death. Neither of them really understood how much touching each other was needed and taken for granted until they couldn't do it. The emotions caused by their dilemma were expressed so well in the writing that I really connected with what the characters were feeling and going through.
Unholy contains a lot of characters who have appeared in other Morgan Brice and Gail Z. Martin (Morgan's other pen name) books but you won't feel confused at all if you haven't read any of them. They all form strong bonds with each other during this story and I suspect the bonds will last throughout books yet to come from Morgan Brice.
Unholy contains references to all kinds of magic and objects related to both good and bad magic. There are several surprises thrown at the characters that cause their quest to go in different directions from what they thought it would when they started out.
Since this is a romance, you know that there will be an HEA but boy does Morgan Brice put her characters, especially Seth and Evan, through a lot of different things before they get there and I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this fantastic adventure.
A copy of this audio book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Performance – 5
Story – 5
Overall – 5
I love it even more as an audiobook!
I first read Unholy just a little over a year ago and loved it. Now that I’ve listened to the audiobook, I love it even more. If you are new to this series, or to Morgan Brice’s books, don’t hesitate to jump in anywhere in a series. While I usually prefer reading series in order, that didn’t happen with Witchbane as I was a latecomer to her books. I never felt lost while reading/listening to this.
Kale Williams did another great job with the audiobook and it really held my attention even though I’d previously read the book. I think he has done a great job with this series overall; now I just need to make time to listen to books 1-3. 😊
I really can’t think of anything more to say that I didn’t already say in my original review shown below.
Wow, is kind of my reaction to Unholy; I'm not sure where to begin with my review. I truly never thought I'd enjoy stories about monster/witch/ghost hunters but I was sure wrong – at least when it comes to books by Morgan Brice.
Seth and Evan are hunting for a really bad witch-disciple who turns out to be even more awful than they originally thought. The blurb really says it all much better than I can. I don't think it's a spoiler to say that the curse put on Seth and Even, which is mentioned in the blurb, is one that won't let them touch each other without extreme pain and possibly death. Neither of them really understood how much touching each other was needed and taken for granted until they couldn't do it. The emotions caused by their dilemma were expressed so well in the writing that I really connected with what the characters were feeling and going through.
Unholy contains a lot of characters who have appeared in other Morgan Brice and Gail Z. Martin (Morgan's other pen name) books but you won't feel confused at all if you haven't read any of them. They all form strong bonds with each other during this story and I suspect the bonds will last throughout books yet to come from Morgan Brice.
Unholy contains references to all kinds of magic and objects related to both good and bad magic. There are several surprises thrown at the characters that cause their quest to go in different directions from what they thought it would when they started out.
Since this is a romance, you know that there will be an HEA but boy does Morgan Brice put her characters, especially Seth and Evan, through a lot of different things before they get there and I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this fantastic adventure.
A copy of this audio book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
March 5, 2020
Grabbed me from the start and wouldn't let go!
Unholy is the 5th book in the Witchbane series but it can be read as a standalone with no problem. I haven't yet read any of the other books in the series and I never once felt like I was lost or missing anything important.
Wow, is kind of my reaction to Unholy; I'm not sure where to begin with my review. I truly never thought I'd enjoy stories about monster/witch/ghost hunters but I was sure wrong – at least when it comes to books by Morgan Brice.
Seth and Evan are hunting for a really bad witch-disciple who turns out to be even more awful than they originally thought. The blurb really says it all much better than I can. I don't think it's a spoiler to say that the curse put on Seth and Even, which is mentioned in the blurb, is one that won't let them touch each other without extreme pain and possibly death. Neither of them really understood how much touching each other was needed and taken for granted until they couldn't do it. The emotions caused by their dilemma were expressed so well in the writing that I really connected with what the characters were feeling and going through.
Unholy contains a lot of characters who have appeared in other Morgan Brice and Gail Z. Martin (Morgan's other pen name) books but you won't feel confused at all if you haven't read any of them. They all form strong bonds with each other during this story and I suspect the bonds will last throughout books yet to come from Morgan Brice.
Unholy contains references to all kinds of magic and objects related to both good and bad magic. There are several surprises thrown at the characters that cause their quest to go in different directions from what they thought it would when they started out.
Since this is a romance you know that there will be an HEA but boy does Morgan Brice put her characters, especially Set and Evan, through a lot of different things before they get there and I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this fantastic adventure.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Unholy is the 5th book in the Witchbane series but it can be read as a standalone with no problem. I haven't yet read any of the other books in the series and I never once felt like I was lost or missing anything important.
Wow, is kind of my reaction to Unholy; I'm not sure where to begin with my review. I truly never thought I'd enjoy stories about monster/witch/ghost hunters but I was sure wrong – at least when it comes to books by Morgan Brice.
Seth and Evan are hunting for a really bad witch-disciple who turns out to be even more awful than they originally thought. The blurb really says it all much better than I can. I don't think it's a spoiler to say that the curse put on Seth and Even, which is mentioned in the blurb, is one that won't let them touch each other without extreme pain and possibly death. Neither of them really understood how much touching each other was needed and taken for granted until they couldn't do it. The emotions caused by their dilemma were expressed so well in the writing that I really connected with what the characters were feeling and going through.
Unholy contains a lot of characters who have appeared in other Morgan Brice and Gail Z. Martin (Morgan's other pen name) books but you won't feel confused at all if you haven't read any of them. They all form strong bonds with each other during this story and I suspect the bonds will last throughout books yet to come from Morgan Brice.
Unholy contains references to all kinds of magic and objects related to both good and bad magic. There are several surprises thrown at the characters that cause their quest to go in different directions from what they thought it would when they started out.
Since this is a romance you know that there will be an HEA but boy does Morgan Brice put her characters, especially Set and Evan, through a lot of different things before they get there and I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this fantastic adventure.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
February 16, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
4.5 stars
You need to read the other books in the series before you read this one as there is a lot of background. There is also a lot of crossover with the Deadly Curiosities series, and though I think you would enjoy this story more having read those books, you don't have to read them to understand this book.
Seth and Evan are on their way to Charleston to stop the next of the witch disciples when a car crash and curse create a danger greater than anything they've faced before. This time it's going to take not only all of their training and spirit to stop the evil witch, but also the help of the Charleston crew. I really enjoyed seeing the interactions with Seth, Evan, Cassidy, and Teag. This story also added some new information, a possible game changer, about the witch disciples. The curse I think actually did good job of showing how close the connection between Seth and Evan truly is, that it goes far beyond the physical. I really like how interwoven the stories have become, with characters from several series playing at least a supporting role, it gives a depth to the world-building.
*In a addition to the crossover with Deadly Curiosities's characters, characters from Badlands, Treasure Trail, and Sons of Darkness. If you like this series, I highly recommend checking out the other books as well.
4.5 stars
You need to read the other books in the series before you read this one as there is a lot of background. There is also a lot of crossover with the Deadly Curiosities series, and though I think you would enjoy this story more having read those books, you don't have to read them to understand this book.
Seth and Evan are on their way to Charleston to stop the next of the witch disciples when a car crash and curse create a danger greater than anything they've faced before. This time it's going to take not only all of their training and spirit to stop the evil witch, but also the help of the Charleston crew. I really enjoyed seeing the interactions with Seth, Evan, Cassidy, and Teag. This story also added some new information, a possible game changer, about the witch disciples. The curse I think actually did good job of showing how close the connection between Seth and Evan truly is, that it goes far beyond the physical. I really like how interwoven the stories have become, with characters from several series playing at least a supporting role, it gives a depth to the world-building.
*In a addition to the crossover with Deadly Curiosities's characters, characters from Badlands, Treasure Trail, and Sons of Darkness. If you like this series, I highly recommend checking out the other books as well.
May 7, 2021
continuity is a must
I love this author and the series. I also like how other characters are brought in from other series to help. It feels cohesive and like one big world. It also helps that while waiting for the next book to come out about a particular group, if you get glimpses of them in other books. (My top series is Badlands, so its nice to get my Simon fix while waiting for the next novel.) It is also done with thought and purpose, not just randomly as a ploy to get you to buy different books.
I was a little concerned about how each book would be different if it is the same premise, 12 disciples, one sacrifice a year on halloween, rinse and repeat. However, each book so far has managed to be different enough to feel like you are getting a new story each time, while still following the original storyline of the 12 disciples, but getting new plausible info to evolve the story line, and allow the books to be different.
As far as 3 stars, well continuity. In the 1st book or maybe 2nd, when Seth is teaching Evan rote magic, Evan doesn't get it. Speaking the words doesn't work for him, much to his frustration. Eventually, he realizes that drawing the sigil works better because of his talent and strength as a graphic designer. He uses this method through out multiple books. Then all of a sudden he can use spoken rote magic in this book? These little details bother me because it is like the author took the easy way out when they are creative enough to make it work with the rules they have already established. It also gives separation to Even and Seth as main characters. I am sure authors have a way to try to keep details in line book to book, but just having a beta reader start reading the series from book 1 up through the completed book would catch these things.
I love this author and the series. I also like how other characters are brought in from other series to help. It feels cohesive and like one big world. It also helps that while waiting for the next book to come out about a particular group, if you get glimpses of them in other books. (My top series is Badlands, so its nice to get my Simon fix while waiting for the next novel.) It is also done with thought and purpose, not just randomly as a ploy to get you to buy different books.
I was a little concerned about how each book would be different if it is the same premise, 12 disciples, one sacrifice a year on halloween, rinse and repeat. However, each book so far has managed to be different enough to feel like you are getting a new story each time, while still following the original storyline of the 12 disciples, but getting new plausible info to evolve the story line, and allow the books to be different.
As far as 3 stars, well continuity. In the 1st book or maybe 2nd, when Seth is teaching Evan rote magic, Evan doesn't get it. Speaking the words doesn't work for him, much to his frustration. Eventually, he realizes that drawing the sigil works better because of his talent and strength as a graphic designer. He uses this method through out multiple books. Then all of a sudden he can use spoken rote magic in this book? These little details bother me because it is like the author took the easy way out when they are creative enough to make it work with the rules they have already established. It also gives separation to Even and Seth as main characters. I am sure authors have a way to try to keep details in line book to book, but just having a beta reader start reading the series from book 1 up through the completed book would catch these things.
March 6, 2020
As a fan of both this series and Deadly Curiosities, I was very excited to read this book. It didn’t disappoint. One of the things I love about this author is the way her series all interconnect and characters from one series help out those from another.
I like the realism in amongst all the supernatural goings on and how, although the reader know Cassidy and Teag are who they say they are, they still offer to show ID, or have Simon confirm their identity to Evan and Seth when they first meet. As an aside I love Evan and Seth’s reaction to Sorren after discovering he’s a vampire. Everyone working together made me very happy. Thought their abilities and skill set meshed well, and I liked how this story advanced the overall plot of both series. I also liked how they got to know each other, and the feeling of the beginnings of friendships, and the widening of the Alliance family.
The world building is fabulous, and I liked the class system within witch society, and the introduction of new characters which I hope will turn up in future stories. Although this is Evan and Seth’s story, the supporting cast from both series come together and fully realise this world. They all feel very real, and that comes across even with characters who only cameo in this story.
The witch disciple in this story is a nasty piece of work, and very much a threat to the point I’m not sure Evan and Seth could have taken him down without help, although they still play a major part in it. Characters in other series have their own support communities to call on, while these guys are travelling so good to know they have offers of help from a wider group now. I’d be happy if there are a few crossovers in their future.
More please.
I like the realism in amongst all the supernatural goings on and how, although the reader know Cassidy and Teag are who they say they are, they still offer to show ID, or have Simon confirm their identity to Evan and Seth when they first meet. As an aside I love Evan and Seth’s reaction to Sorren after discovering he’s a vampire. Everyone working together made me very happy. Thought their abilities and skill set meshed well, and I liked how this story advanced the overall plot of both series. I also liked how they got to know each other, and the feeling of the beginnings of friendships, and the widening of the Alliance family.
The world building is fabulous, and I liked the class system within witch society, and the introduction of new characters which I hope will turn up in future stories. Although this is Evan and Seth’s story, the supporting cast from both series come together and fully realise this world. They all feel very real, and that comes across even with characters who only cameo in this story.
The witch disciple in this story is a nasty piece of work, and very much a threat to the point I’m not sure Evan and Seth could have taken him down without help, although they still play a major part in it. Characters in other series have their own support communities to call on, while these guys are travelling so good to know they have offers of help from a wider group now. I’d be happy if there are a few crossovers in their future.
More please.
February 28, 2020
4.5 stars
“Unholy” by Morgan Brice is part of the ‘Witchbane’ series and features Seth Tanner and Evan Malone as they continue to travel the U.S., trying to break the evil cycle started by the disciples of dark warlock Rhyfel Gremory. The hunt takes them to Charleston, where they finally get a chance to meet some of the allies who have been giving them assistance and advice thus far. Unfortunately, danger stalks the pair as well, and this time, they may have run into a curse that they can’t defeat.
This adult gay urban fantasy is also a romance, with plenty of action and adventure. Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone story, however, one will appreciate the nuances better if the other books have been absorbed. The ticking clock adds to the tension of the story and the interactions with the denizens of the city are fascinating and provide a nice crossover with some of the other series by this author. I love the camaraderie and unhesitating support that is provided even as I was captivated by the challenges faced by Seth and Evan as they fought the curse that threatened to destroy everything they’ve accomplished thus far.
This is one of those books that you don’t want to start too late at night because you’re never going to be able to put it down until the very end. Whether you’re new to the series or already a fan, plan to be enthralled by an exciting entertaining story featuring two likable guys who are devoted to each other and determined to break the cycle of evil that has destroyed so many families.
A copy of this title was provided for review
“Unholy” by Morgan Brice is part of the ‘Witchbane’ series and features Seth Tanner and Evan Malone as they continue to travel the U.S., trying to break the evil cycle started by the disciples of dark warlock Rhyfel Gremory. The hunt takes them to Charleston, where they finally get a chance to meet some of the allies who have been giving them assistance and advice thus far. Unfortunately, danger stalks the pair as well, and this time, they may have run into a curse that they can’t defeat.
This adult gay urban fantasy is also a romance, with plenty of action and adventure. Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone story, however, one will appreciate the nuances better if the other books have been absorbed. The ticking clock adds to the tension of the story and the interactions with the denizens of the city are fascinating and provide a nice crossover with some of the other series by this author. I love the camaraderie and unhesitating support that is provided even as I was captivated by the challenges faced by Seth and Evan as they fought the curse that threatened to destroy everything they’ve accomplished thus far.
This is one of those books that you don’t want to start too late at night because you’re never going to be able to put it down until the very end. Whether you’re new to the series or already a fan, plan to be enthralled by an exciting entertaining story featuring two likable guys who are devoted to each other and determined to break the cycle of evil that has destroyed so many families.
A copy of this title was provided for review
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