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Dying for a Living #5
Worth Dying For
Read the series with 700 five-star reviews! A contemporary fantasy series unlike any other. Don't believe us? Download a free sample and see for yourself!
With enough power coursing through your veins, it's hard to remember whose side you're on.
Jesse Sullivan's father commands a dark and terrible army under the guise of beloved church leader. Jesse and her friends must hide deep undercover for fear of arrest or murder by his faithful followers. Their every move brings risk of discovery.
And when your enemy can control minds and teleport at will, there isn't a single place in the world where you can hide...
Worth Dying For is the 5th book in the "smart, imaginative, and insanely addictive" urban fantasy series. The books do not have to be read in order, but the author recommends it!
With enough power coursing through your veins, it's hard to remember whose side you're on.
Jesse Sullivan's father commands a dark and terrible army under the guise of beloved church leader. Jesse and her friends must hide deep undercover for fear of arrest or murder by his faithful followers. Their every move brings risk of discovery.
And when your enemy can control minds and teleport at will, there isn't a single place in the world where you can hide...
Worth Dying For is the 5th book in the "smart, imaginative, and insanely addictive" urban fantasy series. The books do not have to be read in order, but the author recommends it!
330 pages, ebook
First published April 29, 2016
87 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Kory M. Shrum
53 books646 followersKory M. Shrum has published over thirty books including the bestselling Shadows in the Water and Dying for a Living series.
She also hosts two podcasts: “Who Killed My Mother?” the true story of her mother’s tragic death. And A Well Cared For Human - a mental health and self-care podcast.
You can listen to these shows for free on YouTube or your favorite podcast app. She also publishes poetry under the name K.B. Marie.
When not writing, eating, reading, podcasting, or indulging in her true calling as a stay-at-home dog mom, she can usually be found under thick blankets with snacks. The kettle is almost always on.
She lives in Michigan with her equally bookish wife, Kim, and their rescue dog, Max.
She also hosts two podcasts: “Who Killed My Mother?” the true story of her mother’s tragic death. And A Well Cared For Human - a mental health and self-care podcast.
You can listen to these shows for free on YouTube or your favorite podcast app. She also publishes poetry under the name K.B. Marie.
When not writing, eating, reading, podcasting, or indulging in her true calling as a stay-at-home dog mom, she can usually be found under thick blankets with snacks. The kettle is almost always on.
She lives in Michigan with her equally bookish wife, Kim, and their rescue dog, Max.
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April 12, 2016I think it's super shady to rate your own books! But I feel like I should get credit toward my reading challenge...you know, having READ this book about a dozen times this year...
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June 14, 2020🎁 Books 1-5 in the Series are Free on Amazon today (6/14/2020)! 🎁
September 9, 2018
76 points/100 (4 stars/5)
Alert: LGBT themes
Warning: Cliffhanger (status: ruuuun Forrest)
Jesse, Ally, Rachel, Gideon, and Maisie are now on the run from Caldwell. They have a plan to take him down, now they just have to find a way to enact it as Caldwell turns the entire world looking out for them since they "stole" his daughter. Too bad she wanted to leave.
I'm still having a lot of fun reading this series. I feel kind of wounded inside because of it, but I don't care. It is still a lot of fun. And really kind of terrifying, too.
We have a new narration buddy this book! Instead of Ally, we have Rachel. She is fun and bubbly, and not at all what you would expect out of a girl that has spent the last couple of years in a mental institution. Also, not the sort of girl you would expect to see after what you learned about her in Dying For Her. I really like Rachel's storyline, but I can't say too much about it without spoiling it. I don't like spoiling things if I can help it. I think Rachel is who Jesse would have been if things had gone just a little different for her, though. And that is the saddest thing of all.
For Jesse's storyline, we have a lot of worry and struggle. We're struggling to figure out how to deal with Caldwell still. It is hard because things keep going wrong. Now people are onto you and you keep having to do things you don't want to. We're worrying, too, because we have a sister to look after, and a pug, and Ally. We have to make certain Ally is safe.
We also learn new parts to do with the power. The game has changed yet again. Now it isn't a kill or be killed thing. Everything is different now! I'm getting a bit annoyed with the constant changing of the way everything is going to play out, though. I'm sure there is a reason for it, but I just kind of wish at this stage of the series (we're in book five now, after all) that things would have stabilized.
The best part of Worth Dying for is the relationships between the characters. It has that feeling of absolute comradery I was initially expecting out of the series, finally.
To read more reviews in this series and others, check out keikii eats books!
Alert: LGBT themes
Warning: Cliffhanger (status: ruuuun Forrest)
Jesse, Ally, Rachel, Gideon, and Maisie are now on the run from Caldwell. They have a plan to take him down, now they just have to find a way to enact it as Caldwell turns the entire world looking out for them since they "stole" his daughter. Too bad she wanted to leave.
I'm still having a lot of fun reading this series. I feel kind of wounded inside because of it, but I don't care. It is still a lot of fun. And really kind of terrifying, too.
We have a new narration buddy this book! Instead of Ally, we have Rachel. She is fun and bubbly, and not at all what you would expect out of a girl that has spent the last couple of years in a mental institution. Also, not the sort of girl you would expect to see after what you learned about her in Dying For Her. I really like Rachel's storyline, but I can't say too much about it without spoiling it. I don't like spoiling things if I can help it. I think Rachel is who Jesse would have been if things had gone just a little different for her, though. And that is the saddest thing of all.
For Jesse's storyline, we have a lot of worry and struggle. We're struggling to figure out how to deal with Caldwell still. It is hard because things keep going wrong. Now people are onto you and you keep having to do things you don't want to. We're worrying, too, because we have a sister to look after, and a pug, and Ally. We have to make certain Ally is safe.
We also learn new parts to do with the power. The game has changed yet again. Now it isn't a kill or be killed thing. Everything is different now! I'm getting a bit annoyed with the constant changing of the way everything is going to play out, though. I'm sure there is a reason for it, but I just kind of wish at this stage of the series (we're in book five now, after all) that things would have stabilized.
The best part of Worth Dying for is the relationships between the characters. It has that feeling of absolute comradery I was initially expecting out of the series, finally.
To read more reviews in this series and others, check out keikii eats books!
October 17, 2017
I don't know how she does it but these books jut get better and better and better. If your reading these in order you don't need a review if you reading these out of order stop now as this book will make no sense at all.
I read this in two days and if it wasn't like I feel like I've run 100 meters because of the break neck pace of the book i would be starting number 6 now.
I cant wait to find out what happens next but I don't want to because it means I am getting near the end of the series.
I love these books and just need to know when the movie deal is going to be signed
I read this in two days and if it wasn't like I feel like I've run 100 meters because of the break neck pace of the book i would be starting number 6 now.
I cant wait to find out what happens next but I don't want to because it means I am getting near the end of the series.
I love these books and just need to know when the movie deal is going to be signed
May 9, 2016
I received an ARC copy as a gift.
Number 5 in the Jesse Sullivan series, Worth Dying For continues Jesse's journey in saving the world. Not your typical heroine, Jesse is back with her sarcasm and painful selfishness that make her so relatable you can't help but love her.
Since Dying Light, Jesse, Ally, Maisie, Rachel and Gideon (oh, and Winnie Pug) have all been on the run. Caldwell is close (when is he not?), but thanks to some feathered help, Jesse and the gang have been hidden from sight as they plan their next move to take down Caldwell. Things seems to be going as planned ... until they aren't, and everyone is quickly having to re-group in the southwest as murder and mayhem abounds this killer of a mission. Jesse's just trying to keep her friends alive, but sometimes tough choices have to be made and we all have our "favorites".
If you've loved the series "Dying for a Living" you will love Kory M. Shrum's latest. Stylistically, she is one of my favorite authors because she delves into the minds of different characters offering their perspective and memories, which are often so poignant you can feel the chill of the ice cream or the sweetness of a kiss. The reader doesn't live in the typical "omniscient" world of the 3rd person story teller, so the additional layer of mystery makes for a more heart pounding read as secrets are revealed as each character makes his or her discovery.
I've got November 2016 marked on my calendar for "Dying Breath" to be released and to continue this heart pounding journey with Jesse.
Happy Reading!
And to make it more meaningful, Shrum provides information about the very real issue of human trafficking in the U.S. and ways we can all make a difference. I'm always all about a read that enlightens the public about social issues and increases public justice!
Number 5 in the Jesse Sullivan series, Worth Dying For continues Jesse's journey in saving the world. Not your typical heroine, Jesse is back with her sarcasm and painful selfishness that make her so relatable you can't help but love her.
Since Dying Light, Jesse, Ally, Maisie, Rachel and Gideon (oh, and Winnie Pug) have all been on the run. Caldwell is close (when is he not?), but thanks to some feathered help, Jesse and the gang have been hidden from sight as they plan their next move to take down Caldwell. Things seems to be going as planned ... until they aren't, and everyone is quickly having to re-group in the southwest as murder and mayhem abounds this killer of a mission. Jesse's just trying to keep her friends alive, but sometimes tough choices have to be made and we all have our "favorites".
If you've loved the series "Dying for a Living" you will love Kory M. Shrum's latest. Stylistically, she is one of my favorite authors because she delves into the minds of different characters offering their perspective and memories, which are often so poignant you can feel the chill of the ice cream or the sweetness of a kiss. The reader doesn't live in the typical "omniscient" world of the 3rd person story teller, so the additional layer of mystery makes for a more heart pounding read as secrets are revealed as each character makes his or her discovery.
I've got November 2016 marked on my calendar for "Dying Breath" to be released and to continue this heart pounding journey with Jesse.
Happy Reading!
And to make it more meaningful, Shrum provides information about the very real issue of human trafficking in the U.S. and ways we can all make a difference. I'm always all about a read that enlightens the public about social issues and increases public justice!
April 15, 2016
I just finished, "Worth Dying For," the fifth and most recent novel in the Jesse Sullivan series. I have been a fan of this series since the first chapter of book one and it seems like each book is better than the last. This one is no exception.
Worth Dying for opens on a happy note. Jesse, Ally, Maisie, Gideon and Rachel enjoying a normal New Years Eve celebration in New York. It's almost a relief to see this temporary respite from the chaos the group had endured, but as any fan of the series can attest, chaos always revisits our heroine and her friends.
I don't want to spoil it, but this book is chalk full of action, tense moments and suspense. I finished it in one sitting, I couldn't bear to put it down. Despite how action focused this novel is, or maybe because of it, the character development is impressive. I think one of the reason this series resonates with me (and other readers, no doubt) is that the heroine, Jesse, is flawed, complicated, messy and human. In this novel we see moments of jealousy, doubt and undeniable tenderness. It's easy to root for Jesse because she's perfect in her imperfection.
In this book, we get to see Rachel's perspective as well as Jesse's. One of the things I like best about this series is the authors ability to flesh out story lines by giving readers a point of view from multiple characters. Each character is unique and complex in their own right, but give new insights into Jesse's background and motivation as well. Rachel is an amazing conduit in this story.
The fifth installment is worth the wait, the pace is breakneck and you won't be able to put it down! There is a huge twist I didn't see coming and the novel ends with yet another cliff hanger. I'm torn between wanting to know how this all ends for Jesse and her friends and wanting this series to go on forever. That, to me, is the mark of a truly gifted author. If you're already a fan of this series, this book will not disappoint. If you haven't given it a shot, what are you waiting for?
Worth Dying for opens on a happy note. Jesse, Ally, Maisie, Gideon and Rachel enjoying a normal New Years Eve celebration in New York. It's almost a relief to see this temporary respite from the chaos the group had endured, but as any fan of the series can attest, chaos always revisits our heroine and her friends.
I don't want to spoil it, but this book is chalk full of action, tense moments and suspense. I finished it in one sitting, I couldn't bear to put it down. Despite how action focused this novel is, or maybe because of it, the character development is impressive. I think one of the reason this series resonates with me (and other readers, no doubt) is that the heroine, Jesse, is flawed, complicated, messy and human. In this novel we see moments of jealousy, doubt and undeniable tenderness. It's easy to root for Jesse because she's perfect in her imperfection.
In this book, we get to see Rachel's perspective as well as Jesse's. One of the things I like best about this series is the authors ability to flesh out story lines by giving readers a point of view from multiple characters. Each character is unique and complex in their own right, but give new insights into Jesse's background and motivation as well. Rachel is an amazing conduit in this story.
The fifth installment is worth the wait, the pace is breakneck and you won't be able to put it down! There is a huge twist I didn't see coming and the novel ends with yet another cliff hanger. I'm torn between wanting to know how this all ends for Jesse and her friends and wanting this series to go on forever. That, to me, is the mark of a truly gifted author. If you're already a fan of this series, this book will not disappoint. If you haven't given it a shot, what are you waiting for?
April 28, 2016
Once again the world of Jesse Sullivan sucked me in. I was very grateful I had taken Friday and Monday off this week, because I couldn’t put it down.
The fifth installment definitely does not disappoint. Jesse is still on the run from Caldwell, yet at the same time trying to figure out how to trap him. This time she has the help of Ally, Gideon, Maisie, Gloria and Rachel as they set out to trap Caldwell and kill him. Unfortunately there are several obstacles along the way. For one, Gideon and Rachel get separated from the rest of the group right off the bat.
This book is no different from the others in that it is told from multiple points of view, however this time it is Jesse and Rachel, instead of Jesse and Ally.
At several points we get taken back into Rachel and Jesse’s memories of how they came to be where they are right now. Rachel’s horrific abuse by Chaplain and how Jesse came to be in her life (via Brinkley).
There is lots of action and heart pounding suspense as you follow Jesse and Rachel, on two separate paths from New York to Arizona, where Gloria depicts the ultimate showdown. Jesse is still snarky, sarcastic and as funny as ever, even while on the run for her life.
There is also a love story here, although somewhat in the background due to the continuous life threatening action, but not unimportant, because Jesse has realized she loves Ally and will do anything to keep her alive. Even if it means Jesse has to die. There are sweet and tender moments between the two of them despite all the chaos and you can’t help but root for them to find their happily ever after.
But we’re left with a cliff hanger ending that will only leave you wanting more. I’m already anxiously awaiting book 6.
If you haven’t read this series yet, I recommend you do so… now. But start with book 1. Dying for a Living. Which is free on Amazon right now!
The fifth installment definitely does not disappoint. Jesse is still on the run from Caldwell, yet at the same time trying to figure out how to trap him. This time she has the help of Ally, Gideon, Maisie, Gloria and Rachel as they set out to trap Caldwell and kill him. Unfortunately there are several obstacles along the way. For one, Gideon and Rachel get separated from the rest of the group right off the bat.
This book is no different from the others in that it is told from multiple points of view, however this time it is Jesse and Rachel, instead of Jesse and Ally.
At several points we get taken back into Rachel and Jesse’s memories of how they came to be where they are right now. Rachel’s horrific abuse by Chaplain and how Jesse came to be in her life (via Brinkley).
There is lots of action and heart pounding suspense as you follow Jesse and Rachel, on two separate paths from New York to Arizona, where Gloria depicts the ultimate showdown. Jesse is still snarky, sarcastic and as funny as ever, even while on the run for her life.
There is also a love story here, although somewhat in the background due to the continuous life threatening action, but not unimportant, because Jesse has realized she loves Ally and will do anything to keep her alive. Even if it means Jesse has to die. There are sweet and tender moments between the two of them despite all the chaos and you can’t help but root for them to find their happily ever after.
But we’re left with a cliff hanger ending that will only leave you wanting more. I’m already anxiously awaiting book 6.
If you haven’t read this series yet, I recommend you do so… now. But start with book 1. Dying for a Living. Which is free on Amazon right now!
May 3, 2016
Read this one in two days! I was just super happy to reading about Jesse and Ally again. Rachel has a voice in this book, and I like her. Her past is revealed, and it's dark and disturbing . The writing is funny per usual, but the tension is nonstop. Right after finishing book 4, I was like, OK when is the next one coming out?? Same sentiment with this one. Next book, I want!
August 29, 2016
Yep, still hooked. This continues to be one of my favorite series, and I can’t wait for the next one. Owe, and check out the audio version, the narrator is awesome. Enjoy!
September 12, 2024
3.5 Stars
Worth Dying For is the fifth book in the Dying for a Living series by Kory M. Shrum. It is a very original ‘zombie’ story- an urban fantasy with plenty of action, adventure, mystery, agendas, a quest of sorts, danger, family, friendship, high stakes, suspense, tension, secrets, deception, politics, religion, intrigue, drama, kidnapping, a game of cat and mouse, time running out, gripping developments, gritty/raw scenes, and much more.
I developed an addiction to Ms. Shrum’s stories when I stumbled onto her Shadows in the Water series -> where one book led to two, which then led to me devouring the whole series, back-to-back (11 books) in a matter of days. As there’s a wait for the twelfth book in that series to be released, I needed a ‘fix’ of more of her storytelling, so I went searching for more, discovering a wealth of stories to choose from, and ultimately choosing this series to dive into, before I go on to more.
I really enjoyed this series, but I think if I had not read Shadows in the Water first, my rating would be a bit higher, as the Shadows series has set the bar extremely high. So, if you are interested in Ms. Shrum’s work, I suggest starting here with the Dying for a Living series, before you embark on any other of her work/s.
Jesse Sullivan has Necronitic Regenerative Disorder, a neurological disorder which means that a person can die, but won’t stay dead. But don’t call her a Zombie, because that’s considered rude. The term zombie brings images of mindless, rotting, animated corpses- which is anything but what Jesse and the other NRD positive people are/look like. They look like ‘normal’ humans, just with the ability to ‘come back to life’. Discovering she had this ability had its own trauma, but ultimately led Jesse into the death replacement industry, where she gets paid to die for her clients- ensuring their life is not cut short – so when the story starts, Jesse has already ‘died’ dozens of times. Things take an interesting twist, which I won’t go into here, as I really don’t want to spoil it for you- suffice to say that there was a lot of intense, action-packed developments that made for an engrossing read.
Each book in this series follows on from the previous one, picking up where the other left off- building a much bigger picture as they go- so they really need to be read in the correct sequence, to fully appreciate the books/series- and prevent any kind of confusion. The books are available individually if you wish, as well as in Boxed Sets- which is great value for money.
The Series consists of:
-Dying for a Living (Book #1)
-Dying by the Hour (Book #2)
-Dying for Her (Book #3)
-Dying Light (Book #4)
-Worth Dying For (Book #5)
-Dying Breath (Book #6)
-Dying Day (Book #7)
So, if you are after a highly original urban fantasy series to sink your teeth into, this might just be what you are looking for!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kory M. Shrum!
Worth Dying For is the fifth book in the Dying for a Living series by Kory M. Shrum. It is a very original ‘zombie’ story- an urban fantasy with plenty of action, adventure, mystery, agendas, a quest of sorts, danger, family, friendship, high stakes, suspense, tension, secrets, deception, politics, religion, intrigue, drama, kidnapping, a game of cat and mouse, time running out, gripping developments, gritty/raw scenes, and much more.
I developed an addiction to Ms. Shrum’s stories when I stumbled onto her Shadows in the Water series -> where one book led to two, which then led to me devouring the whole series, back-to-back (11 books) in a matter of days. As there’s a wait for the twelfth book in that series to be released, I needed a ‘fix’ of more of her storytelling, so I went searching for more, discovering a wealth of stories to choose from, and ultimately choosing this series to dive into, before I go on to more.
I really enjoyed this series, but I think if I had not read Shadows in the Water first, my rating would be a bit higher, as the Shadows series has set the bar extremely high. So, if you are interested in Ms. Shrum’s work, I suggest starting here with the Dying for a Living series, before you embark on any other of her work/s.
Jesse Sullivan has Necronitic Regenerative Disorder, a neurological disorder which means that a person can die, but won’t stay dead. But don’t call her a Zombie, because that’s considered rude. The term zombie brings images of mindless, rotting, animated corpses- which is anything but what Jesse and the other NRD positive people are/look like. They look like ‘normal’ humans, just with the ability to ‘come back to life’. Discovering she had this ability had its own trauma, but ultimately led Jesse into the death replacement industry, where she gets paid to die for her clients- ensuring their life is not cut short – so when the story starts, Jesse has already ‘died’ dozens of times. Things take an interesting twist, which I won’t go into here, as I really don’t want to spoil it for you- suffice to say that there was a lot of intense, action-packed developments that made for an engrossing read.
Each book in this series follows on from the previous one, picking up where the other left off- building a much bigger picture as they go- so they really need to be read in the correct sequence, to fully appreciate the books/series- and prevent any kind of confusion. The books are available individually if you wish, as well as in Boxed Sets- which is great value for money.
The Series consists of:
-Dying for a Living (Book #1)
-Dying by the Hour (Book #2)
-Dying for Her (Book #3)
-Dying Light (Book #4)
-Worth Dying For (Book #5)
-Dying Breath (Book #6)
-Dying Day (Book #7)
So, if you are after a highly original urban fantasy series to sink your teeth into, this might just be what you are looking for!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kory M. Shrum!
January 19, 2019
Why have I been out of touch? Because I just read the full box set of the Dying for a Living books. I like these books a lot. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but there is so much going on, it makes it all much more enjoyable if you read the series - in order. Hence, the box set. Jesse (and others) die for a living - people now know when (but not how) they are going to die, and they can hire people with a certain condition to die for them. These people are able to come back from the dead (no they're not zombies). As if that doesn't complicate life enough, Jesse (and others) have developed powers and the power comes with a guardian angel. Jesse's angel is frustratingly cryptic. And now someone is murdering the people with the powers. Jesse is dealing with a chaotic romantic life while trying to keep herself (and the people - and dog - she loves alive). The near-future world is thoroughly believable, and the characters are wonderful. Good young adult book, but language and situations are often mature.
November 5, 2016
I really did not want this one to end as it was the last one of the audio-book versions of the series I have on me. I know there is probably the continuation in written format, but I will be waiting for the audio version instead. It was again very good and really interesting, characterisation got better in this one, at leas that what I've noticed regarding differences. Humour always get's to me here. Is a definite re-read for me, and soon.
March 1, 2020
2.5/5 stars
There's nor much I can say at this rate without spoiling the series, so I will stick to the main thoughts I had with this one:
It was messy. Not as bad as book 1, but more messy than the other books.
And part of that was all the different POVs. I think this series would have been better with one or two less POV changes. It would be shorter, but that wouldn't be a problem, for that is pretty much my other problem. It is starting to drag a little.
There's nor much I can say at this rate without spoiling the series, so I will stick to the main thoughts I had with this one:
It was messy. Not as bad as book 1, but more messy than the other books.
And part of that was all the different POVs. I think this series would have been better with one or two less POV changes. It would be shorter, but that wouldn't be a problem, for that is pretty much my other problem. It is starting to drag a little.
February 3, 2018
While this book didn’t have the conclusion I was hoping for, it did continue to tie up loose ends that I wasn’t even aware of before they had a neat bow. The characters are still stunning and the plot is amazing. I’m immediately jumping into book 6.
October 25, 2020
I read this as part of the Dying for a Living Box Set 4-7 series
A good read, lots of tension/action. Definitely not a stand alone novel as we need the next one to (hopefully) find out what happens.
A good read, lots of tension/action. Definitely not a stand alone novel as we need the next one to (hopefully) find out what happens.
February 5, 2021
My favorite so far.
I think worth dying for is so far the best in the series.
My reason for saying this is, it kind of balances the tension and gives us perspective from all the sides.
This is a well written book worth reading.
I think worth dying for is so far the best in the series.
My reason for saying this is, it kind of balances the tension and gives us perspective from all the sides.
This is a well written book worth reading.
March 30, 2021
Angry
Read the five books expecting to get to the end of the story only to find that there r more in the series... What a let down. Enough is enough... This book five gave expectations that were not met which wS a disappointment.
Read the five books expecting to get to the end of the story only to find that there r more in the series... What a let down. Enough is enough... This book five gave expectations that were not met which wS a disappointment.
December 29, 2023
Holy Cow! This book is just non-stop action. I want to warn you that you can't read these out of order. They are not stand-alone. There's such an engaging story, and I love the idea of "dying for a living."
September 17, 2017
Loved it!!!
November 11, 2017
Great book
I am really enjoying this twisted series. This book takes us on all kinds of wild twists and turns and you just have to hold on.
I am really enjoying this twisted series. This book takes us on all kinds of wild twists and turns and you just have to hold on.
February 3, 2019
I can't get enough of this series. Thankfully I have the box set so I can go straight into the next. This one ended on quite a cliffhanger!
February 6, 2019
Keeps getting better and better.
Read
January 21, 2020Looking forward to reading the next book
April 20, 2021
Things move along at a satisfying pace, we lose one character, which pulls in three more, the ranks are filling out, thinning a little, but we're definitely heading for a big explosion.
December 20, 2023
Action packed drama, mystery, romance and a dash of humor.
April 28, 2016
This book review of "Worth Dying For: Book five of the Jesse Sullivan series" by Kory M. Shrum will be spoiler free. You see this disclaimer on so many ARC reviews. This is the first time I’ve struggled with such a review. So many secrets revealed. So many a-ha moments.
Writing
I stopped referring to the people in the book as characters. They have so much depth, they feel like friends. The genuine reactions and actions of the people in the book made them come to life on every page. The use of imperfect first person kept the suspense alive throughout the book. Every moment the reader learned a key piece of information, there was another character off doing something important adding to the exciting bomb in the final conflict. I tried to find faults and breaks in the plot or personal key points but after three readings, I still found myself caught in the suspense. Book six in the series can’t get here quick enough.
Plot
What would you do if you could just reboot after dying? Then the poisonous carrot of more power is dangled in front of you just as you get used to the reanimation abilities of the NRD positive Jesse Sullivan. The plot (built from the first four books) grows more desperate, where any success is met with the taste of a bitter loss. When the trade off for power is sanity, the reader and the people in the story can’t know for sure who to trust. Beating Caldwell will be a bigger issue if Jesse can’t guarantee how much of her mind will be left if she does get enough power to beat him. I would love to pose many ideas about the different ways Ms. Shrum could take the next book, but I promised a spoiler free review. This series definitely needs its own sub-reddit for theories and debates about the possibilities.
Overall
The entire series is a steep set of stairs for Jesse to overcome. No person in the stories is wasted or out of place and somehow the stress on the Jesse is dialed up to eleven in each succeeding book. If you are new to the series or to Ms. Shrum’s writing, a great place to start is the free first novel "Dying For a Living" on Kindle and Wattpad.
If you want to save time and money you can also get the first three books in a box set or get them on audible.
Rating
“Worth Dying For” has set the bar for five star ratings. The edgy and flawed nature of the people, the plot development, and the draw of the story will keep you turning the pages for more of the narcotic laced words. Five stars.
Be sure to check out Kory Shrums blog for new stories and advice for aspiring authors. http://korymshrum.blogspot.com/
CC Ryburn
Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC for review purposes only. No compensation of any kind was involved in my review or opinions expressed.
Writing
I stopped referring to the people in the book as characters. They have so much depth, they feel like friends. The genuine reactions and actions of the people in the book made them come to life on every page. The use of imperfect first person kept the suspense alive throughout the book. Every moment the reader learned a key piece of information, there was another character off doing something important adding to the exciting bomb in the final conflict. I tried to find faults and breaks in the plot or personal key points but after three readings, I still found myself caught in the suspense. Book six in the series can’t get here quick enough.
Plot
What would you do if you could just reboot after dying? Then the poisonous carrot of more power is dangled in front of you just as you get used to the reanimation abilities of the NRD positive Jesse Sullivan. The plot (built from the first four books) grows more desperate, where any success is met with the taste of a bitter loss. When the trade off for power is sanity, the reader and the people in the story can’t know for sure who to trust. Beating Caldwell will be a bigger issue if Jesse can’t guarantee how much of her mind will be left if she does get enough power to beat him. I would love to pose many ideas about the different ways Ms. Shrum could take the next book, but I promised a spoiler free review. This series definitely needs its own sub-reddit for theories and debates about the possibilities.
Overall
The entire series is a steep set of stairs for Jesse to overcome. No person in the stories is wasted or out of place and somehow the stress on the Jesse is dialed up to eleven in each succeeding book. If you are new to the series or to Ms. Shrum’s writing, a great place to start is the free first novel "Dying For a Living" on Kindle and Wattpad.
If you want to save time and money you can also get the first three books in a box set or get them on audible.
Rating
“Worth Dying For” has set the bar for five star ratings. The edgy and flawed nature of the people, the plot development, and the draw of the story will keep you turning the pages for more of the narcotic laced words. Five stars.
Be sure to check out Kory Shrums blog for new stories and advice for aspiring authors. http://korymshrum.blogspot.com/
CC Ryburn
Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC for review purposes only. No compensation of any kind was involved in my review or opinions expressed.
September 2, 2016
I've listened to ALL of the #JesseSullivan books on audio ... and I LOVE them all
I love how Hollie Jackson brings all the characters to life ...sarcasm flows off her tongue like honey! HAHA I laugh out load so darn often and so suddenly I am often surprised I don't pee my pants from it!
This book was pretty intense and narrated from Jesse and Rachel's POV
I like Rachel ... or I did but this book had me wanting to tear her heart out! but I won't tell you why ... you need to listen yourself!
My emotions for her were a crazy trip!
Jesse and Ali are together but it's not perfect, how can it be when you are trying to save the world?
be warned this book ends in a cliffhanger ... I love and hate cliffhangers ... HAHA
This series has it all dark twisted homor, sarcasm is spoken fluently ... and used like a language (I love this)
It's witty and comical all while being intense, mind blowing, adventurous, insane thrills and danger
There's love and romance too but not so much that you'd say 'oh gawd, not another romance novel'
I love romance, don't get me wrong ... my #1 Genre is romance but this book doesn't need over loads of romance and sex ... the excitement of trying to save the world trumps it all
Simply put ... Kory M Shrum and Hollie Jackson create an audio book/series delight
My FAVORITE AUDIO series!!!
I love how Hollie Jackson brings all the characters to life ...sarcasm flows off her tongue like honey! HAHA I laugh out load so darn often and so suddenly I am often surprised I don't pee my pants from it!
This book was pretty intense and narrated from Jesse and Rachel's POV
I like Rachel ... or I did but this book had me wanting to tear her heart out! but I won't tell you why ... you need to listen yourself!
My emotions for her were a crazy trip!
Jesse and Ali are together but it's not perfect, how can it be when you are trying to save the world?
be warned this book ends in a cliffhanger ... I love and hate cliffhangers ... HAHA
This series has it all dark twisted homor, sarcasm is spoken fluently ... and used like a language (I love this)
It's witty and comical all while being intense, mind blowing, adventurous, insane thrills and danger
There's love and romance too but not so much that you'd say 'oh gawd, not another romance novel'
I love romance, don't get me wrong ... my #1 Genre is romance but this book doesn't need over loads of romance and sex ... the excitement of trying to save the world trumps it all
Simply put ... Kory M Shrum and Hollie Jackson create an audio book/series delight
My FAVORITE AUDIO series!!!
April 28, 2016
A masterful collection of all the best things—action, suspense, romance, and a dash of humor!
Book 5 of Shrum's Dying for a Living series picks up shortly after the end of book 4. Jesse, Ally, Maisie, and the rest of the gang finally understand that life as they knew it is over, and despite the depressing and terrifying reality that the end is nigh, they are all grasping for some shred of happiness as they stay under the radar and hatch their next plan of action. Jesse and Ally's relationship finally evolves into something more. Maisie begins to understand her true value and the weight of the choices she will soon have to make. Rachel and Gideon make some critical moves toward defeating Caldwell, and Gloria and Monroe shake things up with a soul-wrenching mix of horrifying premonitions and hopeful possibilities.
The story is fast paced with lots of unexpected twists and turns, and the end left me desperately longing for the next book. I’m still holding out hope for a happy ending, even though it seems nearly impossible at this point. A fight this big just doesn’t go down with everyone emerging unscathed… or on the same side where they began.
Book 5 of Shrum's Dying for a Living series picks up shortly after the end of book 4. Jesse, Ally, Maisie, and the rest of the gang finally understand that life as they knew it is over, and despite the depressing and terrifying reality that the end is nigh, they are all grasping for some shred of happiness as they stay under the radar and hatch their next plan of action. Jesse and Ally's relationship finally evolves into something more. Maisie begins to understand her true value and the weight of the choices she will soon have to make. Rachel and Gideon make some critical moves toward defeating Caldwell, and Gloria and Monroe shake things up with a soul-wrenching mix of horrifying premonitions and hopeful possibilities.
The story is fast paced with lots of unexpected twists and turns, and the end left me desperately longing for the next book. I’m still holding out hope for a happy ending, even though it seems nearly impossible at this point. A fight this big just doesn’t go down with everyone emerging unscathed… or on the same side where they began.
June 10, 2016
4.5 action packed hearts....
I was given this in exchange for review and two very important things that I would like you to take in mind before judging my review: 1)I didn't know the genre 2) I didn't know it was a part of a series. That said...
Holy smokes. I'm definitely going to go back and pick the previous books up as well as continue along with Jesse Sullivan until her quest is over. I don't think that it hurt me not to have read the previous installments too bad, the author did an excellent job weaving just enough information in for folks like me but not took much to keep those of you who have been starting from book one from getting bored. After all, this was NOT a book you could get bored with. Jesse and her gang are still out trying to save the world with their superpowers from the evil Timothy Caldwell. They finally were able to rescue her sister Maisie back. It's harder for them to trace Caldwell though, he's stolen other partis powers and is teleporting now. Jesse has so much riding on her shoulders and one wrong move and the world could end, no pressure, right?
***Reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock***
I was given this in exchange for review and two very important things that I would like you to take in mind before judging my review: 1)I didn't know the genre 2) I didn't know it was a part of a series. That said...
Holy smokes. I'm definitely going to go back and pick the previous books up as well as continue along with Jesse Sullivan until her quest is over. I don't think that it hurt me not to have read the previous installments too bad, the author did an excellent job weaving just enough information in for folks like me but not took much to keep those of you who have been starting from book one from getting bored. After all, this was NOT a book you could get bored with. Jesse and her gang are still out trying to save the world with their superpowers from the evil Timothy Caldwell. They finally were able to rescue her sister Maisie back. It's harder for them to trace Caldwell though, he's stolen other partis powers and is teleporting now. Jesse has so much riding on her shoulders and one wrong move and the world could end, no pressure, right?
***Reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock***
Read
May 4, 2016I had the pleasure of once again reading book 5 of Kory Shrum’s Jesse Sullivan’s “Worth Dying for” before it hit the shelves. I was not disappointed.
The book is told from the viewpoint of Rachel and Jesse this time, which gives greater insight to Rachel and why she is who she is. Love her or hate her, she is a force to be reckoned with. The ongoing struggle continues with Caldwell, aka Eric Sullivan and his love Georgia, aka Death. We learn more about Gideon, Munroe, Sasquatch Nicole, and Maisie. More truths are revealed concerning the partis. Still lots of questions left to be answered, like the true nature of the “Angels”.
There is an important theme that runs through the book, and is integrated so well that you might be learning a truth without realizing it. Read the entire book, cover to cover as it is important. Shrum does not beat around the bush and is not verbose, so if she writes something down, read it.
The book is told from the viewpoint of Rachel and Jesse this time, which gives greater insight to Rachel and why she is who she is. Love her or hate her, she is a force to be reckoned with. The ongoing struggle continues with Caldwell, aka Eric Sullivan and his love Georgia, aka Death. We learn more about Gideon, Munroe, Sasquatch Nicole, and Maisie. More truths are revealed concerning the partis. Still lots of questions left to be answered, like the true nature of the “Angels”.
There is an important theme that runs through the book, and is integrated so well that you might be learning a truth without realizing it. Read the entire book, cover to cover as it is important. Shrum does not beat around the bush and is not verbose, so if she writes something down, read it.
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